Tara Chevrestt's Blog, page 119
December 7, 2012
Close Contact by Cassandra Carr, Cindy Carr, and Cristal Ryder
Blurb: Hard-hitting contact sports don't have the only sexy professional athletes. Does the strength and grace of golf, tennis and fencing instructors extend to lustier activities? Find out as they turn these classic sports into full-contact steamy sessions. Featuring stories by Cassandra Carr, Cristal Ryder and Cynthia Carr.
Service Ace by Cassandra CarrCallum Giovanni's professional tennis career is over. He's trying not to be bitter about it, even though it means teaching women more interested in not messing up their hair and nails than a good service. Then Adriana Macy appears, claiming to be a novice, but Callum knows there's more to her than meets the eye. How far does she want to take their personal match? The ball's in her court.
Up to the Hilt by Cynthia Carr
Olympic fencing wunderkind Sebastian Como is Rina Rogers’ last resort to find someone who can instruct her toward her own Olympic medal. All her other trainers have balked, saying she is too impulsive, too unmanageable, too everything. Sebastian recognizes her talent and tells her he'll take her all the way. But does that include his bed?
Playing Through by Cristal Ryder
A relationship is the last thing Lexie is looking for, especially one with a hot cowboy wanting golf lessons. It's all she can do to keep her focus on the game and off Jay’s hard muscled body and devilishly sexy face. But the more lessons they have, the farther his sexy drawl gets under her skin.
Does he feel the attraction too? Mother Nature forces them to seek shelter as the power of nature lets loose around them. Will they go primal and unleash their attraction for one another amidst the rawness of the Rocky Mountains?
***My two cents***
Three erotic romance stories in one, all involving sports in some way.
The first story is about a woman who has had her eye on a pro tennis player for sometime. A severe ankle injury has relegated him to being a coach. Hey, there's a silver lining behind every cloud, right? One of his students happens to have the hots for him and it's lust at first sight and a hot romp. The lust/sex was almost immediate, too immediate for my taste, but at least they used a rubber.
The second story was a golf instructor and her student. They get rained on and seek shelter together. The sex was hot, the writing good, though I felt a big over dramatic with all the sexual awareness.
The last story, Up to the Hilt, was my favorite. Well-written, engaging, and featuring a tough female who wants to be the best fencer she can be. "Fencing needs some fresh blood amongst the stodgy, good old boys network. I'm the one who's going to show them there's a youth movement out there. There are all kinds of moves you can make that no one has dared to perform in competition. I'm going to make them and shock everyone."
She was right up my alley, attitude problem and all. She engages her instructor in real battle, which leads to a battle of a different sort. I also liked that this story was more STORY than sex. I'll be seeking other work from this author.
December 6, 2012
Strong is Sexy Heroines of the Week: Carly, George, Mika, Mrs. Spurlock-Watts
This week is a little different. This week is not only about fictional heroines, but two very real strong and sexy women. The real-life heroines I'd like to honor today are Shyla Colt and her mother, Mrs. Spurlock-Watts. Ms. Colt doesn't like to talk about herself, so I'm going to do it for her. This is an author who has gone above and beyond the call of duty. She not only writes to touch and reach others, but in her everyday life, she's a mother, a marine wife, an editor, an office manager, and she has also been granted a very special award called the Molly Pitcher award for the hard work she's done with military families. And this woman is once again giving something of herself to help Veterans. Please welcome real-life strong and sexy Shyla Colt as she talks about the strong woman in her life and those in her latest book.
Book: No Man Left Behind
Heroines: Carly, George, Mika
Author: Shyla Colt
To be a woman is to be strong. This is what my mother taught me in words and in actions. A woman, if she chooses to have a family will be the heartbeat, the glue, the driving force that steers the bus. That's no small task. She must be strong, capable, poised and ready to do what's right even when it's not easy. Because most of the time, it won't be. She told me I could be whatever I wanted to be and I believed her. Independence was a given. I would go to college or trade school, know how to cook, clean, budget a checkbook, handle my own finances, and fix what was broken.
My mother is one of the strongest women I know. She had me at fourteen, went on to co-own a business, and later work for the government. I watched her remain strong when my father's diabetes took its toll, and he went on to have surgery ,after surgery, ending in an amputation of his leg. He was a proud man and this sudden helplessness ( in his eyes) was a hard pill to swallow. Rehabilitation and readjustment was no walk in the park. But looking at my mother, you never would’ve known it. She handled his new needs, and later his death, with a grace, dignity, and a core of steel I hoped to one day have.
My mom, Suzette, can cook a meal that would make you think she went to culinary school and then turn around and change a broken doorknob. She was the fix-it person in my house, thank you very much. In my opinion, it's that kind of open-mindedness and instilled life skills that breeds strong women who can handle themselves and put a man in his place if need be. I say this because I see a new generation that thinks disrespect is the norm. As a woman this appalls and angers me, but as a mother, it goes to a whole other level. I will be forever grateful for the woman my mom helped me become.
It's this attitude of a woman being strength that I try to instill in each of my characters in some way. My latest book, No Man Left Behind, in particular. Our men and women in the military face a lot of challenges and aftereffects from the wars they fight to keep us safe. This anthology gives us an up closer and personal view of some of those issues and feature women strong enough to stand by their side.
George, Carly and Mika are three very different women, but each is strong in her own way. When Carly's longtime friend and secret crush, Trevor comes back home for a visit the romance she's only wished for begins. Things are perfect until she starts to notice things aren't quite right. Trained to see signs of distress in her job as a social worker, she knows Trevor needs help. It's a risk bringing this to his attention, but it's one she's willing to take. Because when you really care for someone, you want what's best for them. I admire her honesty and positivity in the face of losing what you want most.
George is a strong-willed woman who knows what she wants and refuses to settle. It's that attitude and ability to ignore society's demands that makes her strong. When Alex Denning catches her eye, she sees past the damage done to his face in an IED explosion as well as that done to his heart by his ex fiancée. She turns the tables, pursuing him with her understanding of military life and God-given charisma. Her sassy spunk and self-confidence are qualities I think most of us wish we had more of some days. :Winks:
Last but not least, we come to Mika. When her husband receives a life-altering injury that changes his personality and memory drastically, she digs deep to find the strength of character necessary to be there for him as he heals. Her selflessness coupled with her ability to be honest and frank while continuing to stand her own ground sets her apart and shows how powerful true love could really be.
I hope you will join me on the journey of these strong women and the men who risk everything to keep others safe. Fifty percent of each purchase will go to the Wounded Warrior project. My husband is a Marine and we put our heads together to come up with a way to give back to those who are too often forgotten. We hope to bring awareness back to them and the families who serve in their own way alongside them.
Blurb:Even after our brave men and women leave the battlefield, the scars can linger physically and sometimes mentally. Here are three tales of courage, strength, perseverance, and love that deal with both.
After a long sting in Afghanistan, Cpl. Trevor Martin finds himself home for leave and contemplating reenlistment or civilian life. Weary and tired of the grim sights he's witnessed, he turns to his old friend Carly for comfort. When Trevor shows signs of PTSD, Carly urges him to get help, hoping that Repairing His Soul won't cost them their rapidly forming romance.
After a near death experience with an IED in the Middle East, Staff Sgt Alexander Denning is grateful to be alive but scarred inside and out after his fiancée's bitter rejection of his choice to continue serving. Georgette "George" Harper is attending Jane Wayne day for her sister when she's smitten with the McMap instructor Staff Sgt. Denning. Can she convince him what they have is worth the risk? Wooing Her Sergeant may be harder than she thinks.
When Mika gets a phone call that her husband Kasey's been hurt abroad, it's her worse nightmare. Prayers and the grace of God deliver him through, but the battle isn't over yet. The journey back to happiness and health will be painful, full of setbacks and damaged feelings, but Mika refuses to give up on the man she knows is her one true love. A true Marine's wife is Always Faithful, no matter the cost to herself.
Buy here
Book: No Man Left BehindHeroines: Carly, George, Mika
Author: Shyla Colt
To be a woman is to be strong. This is what my mother taught me in words and in actions. A woman, if she chooses to have a family will be the heartbeat, the glue, the driving force that steers the bus. That's no small task. She must be strong, capable, poised and ready to do what's right even when it's not easy. Because most of the time, it won't be. She told me I could be whatever I wanted to be and I believed her. Independence was a given. I would go to college or trade school, know how to cook, clean, budget a checkbook, handle my own finances, and fix what was broken.
My mother is one of the strongest women I know. She had me at fourteen, went on to co-own a business, and later work for the government. I watched her remain strong when my father's diabetes took its toll, and he went on to have surgery ,after surgery, ending in an amputation of his leg. He was a proud man and this sudden helplessness ( in his eyes) was a hard pill to swallow. Rehabilitation and readjustment was no walk in the park. But looking at my mother, you never would’ve known it. She handled his new needs, and later his death, with a grace, dignity, and a core of steel I hoped to one day have.
My mom, Suzette, can cook a meal that would make you think she went to culinary school and then turn around and change a broken doorknob. She was the fix-it person in my house, thank you very much. In my opinion, it's that kind of open-mindedness and instilled life skills that breeds strong women who can handle themselves and put a man in his place if need be. I say this because I see a new generation that thinks disrespect is the norm. As a woman this appalls and angers me, but as a mother, it goes to a whole other level. I will be forever grateful for the woman my mom helped me become. It's this attitude of a woman being strength that I try to instill in each of my characters in some way. My latest book, No Man Left Behind, in particular. Our men and women in the military face a lot of challenges and aftereffects from the wars they fight to keep us safe. This anthology gives us an up closer and personal view of some of those issues and feature women strong enough to stand by their side.
George, Carly and Mika are three very different women, but each is strong in her own way. When Carly's longtime friend and secret crush, Trevor comes back home for a visit the romance she's only wished for begins. Things are perfect until she starts to notice things aren't quite right. Trained to see signs of distress in her job as a social worker, she knows Trevor needs help. It's a risk bringing this to his attention, but it's one she's willing to take. Because when you really care for someone, you want what's best for them. I admire her honesty and positivity in the face of losing what you want most.
George is a strong-willed woman who knows what she wants and refuses to settle. It's that attitude and ability to ignore society's demands that makes her strong. When Alex Denning catches her eye, she sees past the damage done to his face in an IED explosion as well as that done to his heart by his ex fiancée. She turns the tables, pursuing him with her understanding of military life and God-given charisma. Her sassy spunk and self-confidence are qualities I think most of us wish we had more of some days. :Winks:
Last but not least, we come to Mika. When her husband receives a life-altering injury that changes his personality and memory drastically, she digs deep to find the strength of character necessary to be there for him as he heals. Her selflessness coupled with her ability to be honest and frank while continuing to stand her own ground sets her apart and shows how powerful true love could really be.
I hope you will join me on the journey of these strong women and the men who risk everything to keep others safe. Fifty percent of each purchase will go to the Wounded Warrior project. My husband is a Marine and we put our heads together to come up with a way to give back to those who are too often forgotten. We hope to bring awareness back to them and the families who serve in their own way alongside them.
Blurb:Even after our brave men and women leave the battlefield, the scars can linger physically and sometimes mentally. Here are three tales of courage, strength, perseverance, and love that deal with both.
After a long sting in Afghanistan, Cpl. Trevor Martin finds himself home for leave and contemplating reenlistment or civilian life. Weary and tired of the grim sights he's witnessed, he turns to his old friend Carly for comfort. When Trevor shows signs of PTSD, Carly urges him to get help, hoping that Repairing His Soul won't cost them their rapidly forming romance.
After a near death experience with an IED in the Middle East, Staff Sgt Alexander Denning is grateful to be alive but scarred inside and out after his fiancée's bitter rejection of his choice to continue serving. Georgette "George" Harper is attending Jane Wayne day for her sister when she's smitten with the McMap instructor Staff Sgt. Denning. Can she convince him what they have is worth the risk? Wooing Her Sergeant may be harder than she thinks.
When Mika gets a phone call that her husband Kasey's been hurt abroad, it's her worse nightmare. Prayers and the grace of God deliver him through, but the battle isn't over yet. The journey back to happiness and health will be painful, full of setbacks and damaged feelings, but Mika refuses to give up on the man she knows is her one true love. A true Marine's wife is Always Faithful, no matter the cost to herself.
Buy here
December 5, 2012
Holiday Kisses
Holiday Kisses Beachwalk Press FREE Holiday Anthology
Holiday Kisses includes 11 short stories all with a holiday twist.Lose yourself in the romance, holiday cheer, and unexpected surprises!
Positively Holly by Pepper AnthonyWhen Holly and Evan run into each other at the Toy Palace the week before Christmas, the last thing on their minds is rekindling their failed love affair. After all, Holly is one of those wide-eyed optimists, and Evan is a man who deals in practicalities. Things would never work out between them. But two cups of coffee, a pair of shopping bags, and a touch of sexy Christmas magic just might help them find their common ground.
Hometown Miracles by Patricia BatesThe holidays hold little interest for Leanne Wilson, a single mother who receives devastating news mere days before heading home. Once she arrives, she runs into the one man who holds her heart. But she can’t reach out to him now...after all, this may be her very last Christmas. Jay Locke has loved Leanne for years. When she left town, he forced himself to move on, but now she’s back with a darling little girl and a Christmas wish he just can’t say no to.
Believe in Me by Aimée DuffyLeona Sharp and Ryan Lee have been friends forever, it seems. Although there’s an attraction between them, they’ve never acted on it. On New Year’s Eve, Leona finally allows herself to give into the temptation, but she vows that it will only be for one night and as soon as the clock strikes midnight they will put it in the past and go on as if it never happened. Ryan, however, has other plans…
His Holiday Lifesaver by Hazel GowerBrad isn’t looking forward to Christmas dinner with his family as they are always trying to set him up with women. This year he has a plan involving Hailey, a female tourist he rescued at the beach, posing as his girlfriend for the next couple of weeks. The only problem with the plan is he didn’t expect to fall in love with her.
Drawn To You by Tara MillsIf a picture’s worth a thousand words, what does that make a series of sketches? Drawn to the same beach over and over again to secretly sketch this quiet, contemplative man, Rachel is about to find out.
Reunion by Ashlynn Monroe
Years ago, Shayla left her small hometown to pursue her dream. When she did, her family turned their back on her. Leaving also meant she had to forget about the boy she loved. When her mother dies, Shayla realizes that while some things change, other things are doomed to remain the same. She returns home, but doesn’t feel very welcome until the boy who haunts her memories steps into her present. Luc is no longer the farm boy she’d fallen for—he’s grown up, and quite nicely too. Can Shayla rekindle what she lost with the man she never stopped loving?Winter Break by Kaylie NewellHarper Smith is a horrible skier. She can’t stand it almost as much as she can’t stand her irritatingly sexy ex-boyfriend, who also happens to be a member of the ski patrol. So when she finds herself in a life-or-death situation on a cold, dark mountain, she has mixed feelings when Justin Noble shows up to rescue her. Part of her would rather freeze to death than accept his help. The other part can’t help but warm up at the sight of his messy, sun-bleached hair and cocky grin. Without her consent, Harper’s heart tips dangerously close to falling for him again. But will this time be any different?
Mistletoe & Holly by Tamaria SoanaZoey is going through the normal Christmas Eve ritual with her three-year-old twins. The only difference is that her husband Preston isn’t there to share it with them. He’s been deployed overseas and won’t be home for the holidays. After Zoey tucks the kids in for the night, she places the gifts under the tree, snuggles on the sofa to watch It's a Wonderful Life, and falls asleep. She’s startled awake by a loud noise. Is she dreaming, or is her Christmas wish standing under the mistletoe?
Katrina's Christmas by Sidda Lee TateChristmas has always been just another day to Katrina Bryant. She works hard and expects her employees to do the same. When her sexy assistant, Grant Ward, quits on Christmas Eve she becomes worried she will never see him again, and she wonders why that bothers her so much. To her surprise, he arrives at her home hours later and whisks her away for a Christmas she will never forget.
Merry Christmas, Mrs. Todd by Elise WhylesRecently widowed, Mary Todd isn’t looking forward to spending Christmas alone. She’s determined to keep a low profile during the madness—that is, until she meets her sexy neighbor, Walter. He seems intent on helping her get into the holiday spirit, and she just might let him.
The Gift Beneath the Tree by Lacey WolfeTara won’t be spending Christmas with her family this year, but she’s not entirely alone. Her roommate, Brad, who’s currently single, is also at home with her. Tara goes to bed Christmas Eve with hopes Santa might bring her what she most desires. After hearing a loud crash, she goes to investigate, and underneath the tree, she finds the present she’s been dying to unwrap.
December 4, 2012
FREE Flash Fiction! Fantasies
Dinner rests heavily in my stomach, and the wine I greedily gulped during the meal gives me a feeling of deep contentment as I lounge on my end of the sofa, a mere leather cushion separating my husband and I.
The television drones on and on in the background. I only pay it half a mind as I hit the button on my Kindle to read the next page. My husband is watching a basketball game. I find the commercials more interesting than a bunch of sweaty men fighting over a ball and only occasionally look up to comment or laugh.
Ah, commercial time. I glance up from my Kindle screen to see a sporty blue car race across the television. “Oooh. I want that car.”
My husband laughs and shakes his head. “We’re not getting a BMW.”
I pout and return to my Kindle, keeping one eye on the television. That was some car. I can visualize myself in it, music blaring from speakers, the windows rolled down on a sunny day, my hair blowing in the breeze, the admiring glances…
The commercial changes. “Oooh. Look at that cute dress. I want that dress. It’s like a princess dress for adults.”
“You need to quit watching TV. You want everything.”
“Hey,” I say, insulted. “How much of that stuff do I rush out to buy?”
My husband gives me that look, the one that says “true, but I’m not going to agree with you out loud ‘cause I have my male pride.”
I only pay him half a mind. My overactive imagination is already visualizing myself wearing the pink princess dress for adults, driving my awesome blue BMW, music blaring from the speakers… “You know,” I turn to my husband once again, “I just honestly fantasize about that stuff. I can briefly imagine it, I’m wearing my awesome pink dress, I’m a size-two again, I permanently look twenty-five, and I’m out in my sexy blue BMW. All the fellows are turning their heads to look at me. I can’t even go to the grocery store without it being on TMZ!” I’m really getting into this crazy fantasy story of mine now and nearly jumping up and down on the sofa cushion. “And everywhere I go, people see me and they just happen to have one of my books with them and they ask me to autograph it, because I’m a New York Times Bestseller.” I nod and in my mind, I can see it. A little old lady is holding a pen out to me with a shaky hand. A camera light flashes. My blue BMW glints in the sun. I place a hand on my tiny hip…
I bring myself back to the present, to the sofa, to my husband’s guffaws. He’s laughing at me, but it’s not a mean laugh. Soon, I’m chuckling too.
“Watching TV gets my imagination going,” I confess with a grin. “I fantasize. Those are my silly fantasies. What’s your fantasy?”
I look at him expectantly, waiting to hear about how in his fantasy, he have ten motorcycles in the garage, a ’69 Camaro or two, and maybe Megan Fox on his arm. And I won’t take offense, because I know it’s just a fantasy. He’ll never meet Megan Fox.
But he shocks me, and I don’t see it coming, and for a second I’m speechless.
“I live it every day,” he says, so casually, and flips a page of his motorcycle magazine.
I blink. I feel all warm inside and have to blink again to ward away a tear.
Let Megan Fox have the blue BMWs and the TMZ fame. I have everything I need right here, just a sofa cushion away.
December 3, 2012
High-Tech Holiday by Lorraine Nelson
Whatever would possess a woman to dress as a walking, talking holiday? And how can romance possibly evolve from a chance meeting on an airplane? Find out in Lorraine Nelson's short but cute High-Tech Holiday. I got more than a few chuckles from this one. It was a fun book to edit and read.
Blurb:
Kris Temple is a web graphics designer, an ambitious entrepreneur striving to survive in a dog-eat-dog world. She also wants to win her family’s Christmas contest. She adorns herself in full holiday gear the night before thanksgiving and is flying home fully decorated. She's thrilled to find herself seated next to a handsome man. But Kris has a speech problem. However would she converse with this man without stuttering and embarrassing herself?
Aaron Masters is not thrilled to be flying economy, but his personal jet is in for repairs. He’d had to scurry to the reservation desk at the last minute to book a seat on the only flight out, and now he finds his practical, no-nonsense demeanor assaulted by a woman dressed as a holiday advertisement…his seatmate. How could he hope to ignore this woman for the entire flight?
With their flight being rerouted, calls from her ex-fiancé/co-worker pleading for assistance, and his ex-girlfriend stalking him, they are certainly in for a memorable flight.
Excerpt:
“Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain. We are being rerouted due to a severe storm front sweeping down from Canada. We are unable to return to Chicago or continue on to Minneapolis.” There was a general murmur of discontent at this announcement.
“We are being rerouted south to Atlanta. Attendants will be on hand to assist with reservations for accommodation and help reschedule your flights. We apologize for the delay in your travels but deem the safety of our passengers our top concern. We are sorry for any inconvenience.”“I should have stayed in Chicago,” Ethan mumbled.“I'm going to miss the contest. Darn.”Ethan pulled out his cell phone. “George, have Donald bring the car around to the airport and instruct Maria to make up a guest room. I think I have a travel companion who'll be staying overnight.” He signed off a moment later and turned to her. “I hope you don't mind me making plans for you, but since Atlanta is one of the corporate locations for the businesses I run, I know finding decent accommodation will be next to impossible.”She hesitated briefly, before replying, “That sounds fine. Thank you. Are you sure it won’t put you out?”“I have a six thousand square-foot loft. You won’t be crowding me,” he said with just a hint of a smile.“I should call my family and let them know about the delay.” Nothing like stating the obvious, Kris, she thought with disgust as she flipped open her cell phone.“Hi, Mom. I'm going to be delayed. They've rerouted my flight due to a storm. Yes, we’re landing Atlanta. No, I have all my luggage with me. Yes, Mom, I do have clean underwear,” she whispered the last part. She could feel the flush of color rushing into her face. God! How embarrassing. Once again she could tell he was listening to her every word. Especially when she whispered her response to her mother and he'd leaned closer.“Yes, I'll call as soon as I land. Bye for now.”Shoving the phone deep into her pocket, she turned to see a huge grin on the handsome face next to her. “Are you enjoying yourself?”“More than I ever thought possible.” His answering smile showed off a dimple in his right cheek.“Well, I'm feeling rather exposed at the moment. So maybe you can share something personal about yourself?”“Actually I was going to ask you what color.”“What color?”“Are they?”“Are what?” she was starting to wonder if he was a little tipsy.“Your underwear.”“That is none of your business,” she admonished, incredulous he would even dare ask.“Well, it sounded like your mom was concerned about it. I just figured I should be too.”Now she could see he was really having fun at her expense. But then, it was kind of funny that a successful, independent woman had a mother who still wanted to make sure she had clean underwear in case of an emergency.“My mom's a bit old-fashioned and still thinks I'm twelve. She treats all of us that way.”
Buy here: Amazon
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Blurb:
Kris Temple is a web graphics designer, an ambitious entrepreneur striving to survive in a dog-eat-dog world. She also wants to win her family’s Christmas contest. She adorns herself in full holiday gear the night before thanksgiving and is flying home fully decorated. She's thrilled to find herself seated next to a handsome man. But Kris has a speech problem. However would she converse with this man without stuttering and embarrassing herself?
Aaron Masters is not thrilled to be flying economy, but his personal jet is in for repairs. He’d had to scurry to the reservation desk at the last minute to book a seat on the only flight out, and now he finds his practical, no-nonsense demeanor assaulted by a woman dressed as a holiday advertisement…his seatmate. How could he hope to ignore this woman for the entire flight?
With their flight being rerouted, calls from her ex-fiancé/co-worker pleading for assistance, and his ex-girlfriend stalking him, they are certainly in for a memorable flight.
Excerpt:
“Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain. We are being rerouted due to a severe storm front sweeping down from Canada. We are unable to return to Chicago or continue on to Minneapolis.” There was a general murmur of discontent at this announcement.
“We are being rerouted south to Atlanta. Attendants will be on hand to assist with reservations for accommodation and help reschedule your flights. We apologize for the delay in your travels but deem the safety of our passengers our top concern. We are sorry for any inconvenience.”“I should have stayed in Chicago,” Ethan mumbled.“I'm going to miss the contest. Darn.”Ethan pulled out his cell phone. “George, have Donald bring the car around to the airport and instruct Maria to make up a guest room. I think I have a travel companion who'll be staying overnight.” He signed off a moment later and turned to her. “I hope you don't mind me making plans for you, but since Atlanta is one of the corporate locations for the businesses I run, I know finding decent accommodation will be next to impossible.”She hesitated briefly, before replying, “That sounds fine. Thank you. Are you sure it won’t put you out?”“I have a six thousand square-foot loft. You won’t be crowding me,” he said with just a hint of a smile.“I should call my family and let them know about the delay.” Nothing like stating the obvious, Kris, she thought with disgust as she flipped open her cell phone.“Hi, Mom. I'm going to be delayed. They've rerouted my flight due to a storm. Yes, we’re landing Atlanta. No, I have all my luggage with me. Yes, Mom, I do have clean underwear,” she whispered the last part. She could feel the flush of color rushing into her face. God! How embarrassing. Once again she could tell he was listening to her every word. Especially when she whispered her response to her mother and he'd leaned closer.“Yes, I'll call as soon as I land. Bye for now.”Shoving the phone deep into her pocket, she turned to see a huge grin on the handsome face next to her. “Are you enjoying yourself?”“More than I ever thought possible.” His answering smile showed off a dimple in his right cheek.“Well, I'm feeling rather exposed at the moment. So maybe you can share something personal about yourself?”“Actually I was going to ask you what color.”“What color?”“Are they?”“Are what?” she was starting to wonder if he was a little tipsy.“Your underwear.”“That is none of your business,” she admonished, incredulous he would even dare ask.“Well, it sounded like your mom was concerned about it. I just figured I should be too.”Now she could see he was really having fun at her expense. But then, it was kind of funny that a successful, independent woman had a mother who still wanted to make sure she had clean underwear in case of an emergency.“My mom's a bit old-fashioned and still thinks I'm twelve. She treats all of us that way.”
Buy here: Amazon
December 2, 2012
Up Close by Henriette Gyland
I have mixed feelings about this one. I liked some of it and didn't like some of it, but at the same time, must give the author an extra point for uniqueness.
Quick summary: Lia's grandmother has passed away. She heads back to her England to settle the estate and it comes to light that someone may have murdered her grandmother. Was it her mother? Was it a stranger? In the background, there's an issue with bombs on military bases. Lia thinks she knows who is responsible. She meets a sexy artist and takes up diving, all the while dredging up the past and slowly uncovering a mystery, a little Jack Russell terrier at her side.
Because of this: 'A romantic suspense story in the tradition of Hitchcock which won the New Talent Award at the 2011 Festival of Romance.' I was expecting more suspense/thriller/fear than it contained. I'm a huge Hitchcock fan.
Strangers on a Train, it is not. Matter of fact, it doesn't get mysterious and suspenseful until about 20% into the novel. That is my number one complaint. I was really bored in the beginning as the heroine gets situated in her grandmother's house, learns to work a stove, chatters with nosy neighbors and old friends. I found the book pretty long-winded at times, to be honest. You can skim and not miss much.
BUT onto the good stuff. When it does get into the mystery, it's a good one. This is hard to say with a mystery as I must be careful not to reveal too much... The ending. I saw one twist coming from the moment the heroine almost hit a man in the street... BUT I was convinced someone else had done the crimes and was still surprised. There was also a paternity issues I wasn't quite sure of, and I love to be kept guessing so I liked that too.
I found the heroine's attitude toward her grandmother's death to be a put off at first, but it was very well explained as I kept reading. There's lots of past bits, family anger, and discovering oneself. I especially liked how Lia makes some very deep reflections and life changes as the story unfolds.
I appreciate that the author brought PTSD into the story. It IS indeed a serious illness and more should and could be done for the soldiers experiencing it. I can't say I agree with the hero's fanaticism on the subject and intense hatred for the military though. I was put off by that as well, because I come from a very military-oriented family.
Three stars. I was given a copy of this by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I recommend it to anyone seeking a mystery at a slow pace full of family secrets.
You can buy it here
Quick summary: Lia's grandmother has passed away. She heads back to her England to settle the estate and it comes to light that someone may have murdered her grandmother. Was it her mother? Was it a stranger? In the background, there's an issue with bombs on military bases. Lia thinks she knows who is responsible. She meets a sexy artist and takes up diving, all the while dredging up the past and slowly uncovering a mystery, a little Jack Russell terrier at her side.
Because of this: 'A romantic suspense story in the tradition of Hitchcock which won the New Talent Award at the 2011 Festival of Romance.' I was expecting more suspense/thriller/fear than it contained. I'm a huge Hitchcock fan.
Strangers on a Train, it is not. Matter of fact, it doesn't get mysterious and suspenseful until about 20% into the novel. That is my number one complaint. I was really bored in the beginning as the heroine gets situated in her grandmother's house, learns to work a stove, chatters with nosy neighbors and old friends. I found the book pretty long-winded at times, to be honest. You can skim and not miss much.BUT onto the good stuff. When it does get into the mystery, it's a good one. This is hard to say with a mystery as I must be careful not to reveal too much... The ending. I saw one twist coming from the moment the heroine almost hit a man in the street... BUT I was convinced someone else had done the crimes and was still surprised. There was also a paternity issues I wasn't quite sure of, and I love to be kept guessing so I liked that too.
I found the heroine's attitude toward her grandmother's death to be a put off at first, but it was very well explained as I kept reading. There's lots of past bits, family anger, and discovering oneself. I especially liked how Lia makes some very deep reflections and life changes as the story unfolds.
I appreciate that the author brought PTSD into the story. It IS indeed a serious illness and more should and could be done for the soldiers experiencing it. I can't say I agree with the hero's fanaticism on the subject and intense hatred for the military though. I was put off by that as well, because I come from a very military-oriented family.
Three stars. I was given a copy of this by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I recommend it to anyone seeking a mystery at a slow pace full of family secrets.
You can buy it here
December 1, 2012
Votes for Vixens Giveaway Winner!
Random org chose the winner and it's Linda Bass! Linda, an email was sent to you yesterday. I need you to reply this weekend, or I will have to choose another winner.
Thanks to all who entered!
Thanks to all who entered!
Lone Star Joy by Kathleen Ball
Wow. First of all, what a story! Been a while since I've read a book with so many unique plot twists.Joy... she's been in prison since she was 14, taking the rap to save her brother. She been shanked numerous times. Her very own father has sent people to kill her. She's never known love. The only love she's ever known has been for a family that wants her dead. Can you imagine the turmoil this woman goes through?
She's released on a special work program to help on a ranch, owned by Stamos. At first, Stamos wants to send her packing. He only has men on his ranch. But Joy, something about her touches him in the brief amount of time she's waylaid and in his care.
He can't bear to see her back in prison and he marries her to help her out, but he's falling for her and she's falling for him..but then his ex comes back and there's a child to consider and holy smokes, all this stuff happens. Joy is torn. The longer she stays, the worse she makes Stamos's life. He could lose his child because of her. His horses and cattle are being slaughtered as her father and brother try repeatedly to kill her. The only way out of this mess is to clear her name...but she's afraid to talk. Maybe going back to jail would be the best thing...
There's crazy waitress, the ex, the dad, the brother, some real friendly ranchhands, an evil lady intent on proving the marriage is a sham, a horse that steps in front of a bullet, a man falling in love with a woman who doesn't know how to love... and Joy: tough, hardened, and yet, melting inside.
Very strong woman. The crap she faces is unbelievable and yet she stands tall and proud to live and tell about it. I loved how this book showed us so many sides to her personality. The woman who must survive, the mother she longs to be, and how she experiences relationships outside of prison for the first time. I was very easily able to understand what she was feeling.
Quibbles: Stamos seemed bipolar at times. One second he's yelling at Joy in the barn, the next he's wanting to have sex with her. Joy had her moments, but she had a darn good reason for being the way she was. Stamos confused me at times. There were some tiny things I scratched my head over, like them getting married the very next morning (Pretty sure Texas has a three-day wait) but I figure they got a special case.
I must say though, Ms. Ball's ability to weave a tale and throw a reader for a loop (surprise us) is superb.
Four stars. I bought this on Amazon.
November 30, 2012
Andrew P. Weston, Guardian Angels Interview
Today, I'm pleased to announce a special guest, Andrew P. Weston, author of Guardian Angels. He agreed to do an interview with Book Babe. *Due to a few miscommunications, the giveaway was removed from this post. However, it still exists. I'm just waiting for the code again. Those of you who entered are still entered. The rafflecopter is still running, even though it is not currently on Book Babe. Very confusing morning. Thank you.*
The beginning of the book takes readers to incidents all over the world. Islands, Alaska, New York. This makes me wonder how much you've traveled and where to? What's the most exotic place you've traveled to?
The most exotic place has to be the jungles of South America. I had to visit there a few times because of the specialist roles I fulfilled in one of my previous occupations.
I found the place fascinating. I’ve always had an affinity to ‘nature’ and animals etc, and the more you understand about such environments and the things that naturally live there, well, the less they freak you out.
It’s amazing to be prowling along, and come across cobwebs as big as a house, with butterflies the size of dinner plates captured in them (Or birds!) ha ha. Or to hear the throaty growl of a panther that’s watching you – and giving you a lesson in what ‘true stealth’ is all about.
And the trees and the flowers! What an incredible variety.
Imagine you have one of the powers of your heroes. Which would you choose?
Teleportation! I think any emergency service worker (and those in the military) would find that power irresistible. The ability to go anywhere, at just a moment’s notice. Wow!
A bit of oneself always goes into a book. Which character has more of your traits?
Difficult! I put parts of myself into Adam, the Overlord. Andrew – his Shadow Lord, and Victoria, the Lord Inquisitor. There are also aspects of my personality in Lei Yeung & Luigi Espasito.
I did this so I could easily identify with the reactions they would have under different circumstances.
I’ll leave it to you to try and guess which parts!
What was the hardest scene to write?
The prologue. This was my first attempt at writing, and I wanted to get the initial invitation/impact right! It sets the tone for the entire book. So, I’m pleased with how it eventually turned out.
How was the editing process for you? Was it a learning experience? Some actually like edits, the more comments, the more progress authors feel they make. Some pull their hair out. Which are you?
Well, I have no hair to pull out (ta-dah!) So, I enjoyed the editing process. I’m new, and I’ve been conditioned by a lifetime’s experience. So, when more experienced writers/editors offer their sound advice and criticism, well, only a fool would turn it down! I’m very fortunate. Pagan Writers Press is a very small, select and close-knit family. I’ve been helped tremendously. I’ve got some great ideas and concepts floating about in my head, and they are helping my skill level catch up to match!
What movie stars would you cast for a movie of this book?
The Overlord – Vin Diesel
Andrew – Karl UrbanVictoria – Angelina Jolie/Penelope cruzNaomi Cruiz – Eliza DushkuLei Yeung – George TakeiLuigi Espasito – still thinking about that, Leonardo De Caprio?
Did you have a picture nearby for inspiration as you wrote this? Did you listen to a special soundtrack?
No – it was all a product of my warped and fragile mind.
What's in your writing future?
I have a series or two I’m planning to develop, News about them are on my site/blog.
But I think the most important thing is to keep doing my best to improve my craft. It returns the trust and ‘risk’ my publishers put in me – as a new boy – and it will ensure my work continues to grow, and bring enjoyment to those who read the books.
At the moment, I still think I’m ‘playing’. I won’t feel comfortable until I can throw everything else aside and concentrate all my efforts into writing full time. (With time out for the films and sequels of course) – see you on the red carpet! I’ll be wearing Giorgio Armani dahling!
Please tell us something about your own career in law enforcement. Did you put anything you have experienced or seen in the novel?
Oh yes.
I served in the military for nine years, followed by twenty-three years in the Police Service. During that time, I lost count of the incidents I had to deal with where someone’s life was changed forever by unexpected tragedy!Life is a very fragile thing, and “out of the blue” such things can strike when people least expect it, bringing untold calamity and suffering.
Attending those incidents often used to make me think, “What would have happened if we had got here sooner? Or if we had the resources or training to undo all this suffering and damage? What would it be like to have the technology and training to not only anticipate such accidents and disasters, but prevent them happening in the first place?
That’s how the Guardian concept was born.
The one accident that inspired me to actually put my thoughts together into a more structured form involved the death of a young boy on his way home at the end of a school day.
Rush hour traffic is dangerous at the best of times. When you add in the factor of a little boy with little appreciation of the hazards involved, well…you can guess what happened.
The scene was horrendous, as were the terrible sobs of the woman driving the vehicle he ran out in front of. She was a mother herself, and her anguish was heart rending, even though there was nothing she could have done to avoid him.
That’s why the opening chapter of Guardian Angels involves a young boy stepping out into the path of a truck. It describes what ALL the Emergency Service personnel there that day wish could have happened, had someone like a Guardian Angel been there to help.
Thanks for the interview Tara. Great questions. I really enjoyed being here.
Andy.
Really enjoyed having you, Andy, and for those of you whose interest was no doubt piqued by his answers, here is more about the book:
In a series of terrifying events, otherworldly beings intervene to save innocent lives. The world community reacts with relief as they realize that angels may in fact exist, and they are diligently protecting us.
But there are those who would seek to stop what they feel is a threat against their livelihoods. How far will some go to battle the Guardians? Is the fairy tale over before it even begins?
Guardian Angels is a powerful and compelling story about the catalyst that has the power to unite society in the hope for a better future. The spark of hope is fragile—can it last?
Buy Link Pagan Writers Press
Excerpt: (Unedited)
Luigi decided to toast himself and his accomplishments again. Finding his glass empty, he rang the bell for a top up, and continued to gloat, firmly believing he was beyond accountability.
When the door to the study opened a few minutes later and Gianni, the housekeeper, came in with his favorite Black Pearl Louis XIII cognac on a silver tray, he insisted the old servant stay with him and drink to his success. “Come, Gianni, stay, celebrate with me. Good times should be shared with trusted friends.”
The gesture wasn’t missed by Gianni. At fifty-five thousand dollars a bottle, the cognac was one of the most expensive in the world, and he quickly poured a generous helping into two glasses. As he handed one to his boss, he paused momentarily to savor the bouquet of the blended flowers, fruits, spices, and the deep amber color of the aromatic liquid. “You’re looking particularly pleased with yourself today, young Sir. Good news?”
“It’s the very best of news, Gianni, and one that appears to be maturing with age.” He replied without looking away from the screens.
The old housekeeper tossed down his drink in one and shuffled to stand deferentially behind his employer. He listened as yet more reports of the suffering caused by the missile detonations were announced. “That mess doesn’t look like there’s much to be happy about, Sir. Surely that doesn’t please you, does it?”
“Aah, Gianni, sometimes, when you need to make a point, you have to catch your enemy’s attention,” Luigi replied. “You have to ensure they not only respect you, but fear you. I’m pleased because I’ve done just that. Wouldn’t you agree, my old friend?”When no reply was forthcoming, Luigi naturally assumed the old housekeeper must have been unable to hear his question. Turning in his seat, he felt a peculiar throbbing, tingling sensation in his teeth and sinuses. “I said ‘wouldn’t you agr . . . .’”Luigi’s voice choked off in his throat as he caught sight of Gianni’s eyes. The distinctive, familiar, lazy old eyes of his long-time employee seemed to be undergoing some kind of metamorphosis. Gone was the semi-vacant, un-focused faraway look he always seemed to display as he pottered about. Instead, Luigi was looking into the hardest, most piercing eyes he had ever seen, eyes that seemed to glow with an inner furnace to match the cold look of rage chiseled onto his face.The shock made him drop his glass onto the carpet, spilling about three thousand dollars worth of the deep amber nectar.
Transfixed he watched as Gianni’s body straightened, grew, and bulked out. As the years fell away from his face, he realized without a doubt that he was going to fully shoulder the burdens his choices had wrought.
Before him stood his own personal living nightmare made flesh, dressed from head to toe in black. Instantly he felt the fire rising within him, straining for release.The Guardian stepped forward, making the barest of gestures with his finger as he did so, and Luigi found himself lifted into the air by some unseen force. He was held motionless, helpless as a puppet awaiting the commands of his master.
Nodding at the screens, the Guardian spoke. “Allow me to introduce myself. I am Andrew, Guardian Lord of Shadow Operations. Did you seriously think you’d get away with something like this?”
Luigi stared defiantly back, fighting to overcome his shock at the Guardian’s presence, and surprised at the lack of access to his ability. “Do what you want, asshole, at least the world sees you as the frauds I knew you were!” he hissed.
“Do what I want? I’d love to, but unfortunately my boss won’t let me.”Luigi stared impotently back at his nemesis as he strolled closer. Once he was standing in front of him, the Shadow Lord said, “As for exposing us as frauds? Well, I really don’t know why you would think that. We never said or intimated we could be everywhere at once. The world’s a sad enough place as it is without you adding to it. All we are doing is trying to help people avoid as much heartbreak as possible.”Andrew pointed to the repeat bulletins on the screens. “So, once the world finds out that all this was the deliberate act of some sick and twisted psycho who didn’t care how many suffered, just so long as he could score some points, how do you think they’ll react to you, Luigi?”
The point struck home. Luigi struggled in an attempt to slap the Guardian across the face, to do something to help vent the building fury inside him.
Helpless, he continued stewing as the Guardian moved so close he was able to whisper in his ear. “And when they find out about your abilities, can you even begin to imagine how they’ll react to that? You worthless, spineless, pathetic little man. I really wish they’d let me play with you before we throw you to the wolves.”
“F*ck off, asshole, you don’t scare me.”
“Scare you?” Andrew smiled wickedly. “Oh no, Luigi, that’s not my job. That’s hers!”The Guardian gestured behind Luigi at the same moment he let go with his telekinesis. Although Luigi only dropped about a foot, he crumpled to the floor, becoming acutely aware that the strange throbbing in his teeth was even more pronounced than before.
Turning, Luigi was met with a vision of such barely contained power and fury that he immediately soiled his pants.
Andrew squatted beside him. “Allow me to introduce you to the head of our investigations branch. This is Victoria, our Lord Inquisitor, and she’s very pleased to meet you after all the suffering you’ve caused.”
Victoria stood in front of the TV screens, wreathed in a visible static discharge that blew the circuits of all the electrical equipment in the office and made the hairs on Luigi’s arms and head stand on end. Her eyes, so similar to those of the Shadow Lord, intensified in luminosity and turned from grey to white hot. Luigi shielded his eyes and cowered on the floor in his own excrement.
What a fool I am. He thought.
In reply to his thoughts, the Shadow Lord said, “Yes Luigi, what a murderous, cowardly fool of a man you are. I think the whole world will agree when they find out, eh?”
About Andrew:If you had the power to make a difference…would you?
Andrew P Weston was born in the city of Birmingham, UK and grew up in the towns of Bearwood and Edgbaston, eventually attending Holly Lodge Grammar School for Boy’s where he was School Captain and Head Boy.
He was an active sportsperson for the school, college and a variety of rugby, martial art, swimming and athletics teams throughout the city.
On graduation in 1977 he joined the Royal Marines fulfilling a number of roles both in the UK and abroad.
In 1985 he became a police officer with the Devon & Cornwall Constabulary, and served in a variety of uniformed and plain clothed departments until his retirement in 2008.
Over those years, he wrote and illustrated a selection of private books for his children regarding the life of a tiny kitten, called, “The Adventures of Willy Whiskers”, gained further qualifications in Law and Religious Studies, was an active member of Mensa and continued to be an active sportsperson, providing lessons free of charge to local communities.
An unfortunate accident received on duty meant Andrew had to retire early from the police force, but after moving to the sunny Greek island of Kos to speed up his recuperation, he was at last able to devote time to the “Guardian Concept” he had developed over his years in the military and police.
When not writing, Andrew enjoys Greek dancing and language lessons, being told what to do by his wife, Annette, and hunting shadows in the dark.
The beginning of the book takes readers to incidents all over the world. Islands, Alaska, New York. This makes me wonder how much you've traveled and where to? What's the most exotic place you've traveled to?
The most exotic place has to be the jungles of South America. I had to visit there a few times because of the specialist roles I fulfilled in one of my previous occupations.
I found the place fascinating. I’ve always had an affinity to ‘nature’ and animals etc, and the more you understand about such environments and the things that naturally live there, well, the less they freak you out.
It’s amazing to be prowling along, and come across cobwebs as big as a house, with butterflies the size of dinner plates captured in them (Or birds!) ha ha. Or to hear the throaty growl of a panther that’s watching you – and giving you a lesson in what ‘true stealth’ is all about.
And the trees and the flowers! What an incredible variety.
Imagine you have one of the powers of your heroes. Which would you choose?
Teleportation! I think any emergency service worker (and those in the military) would find that power irresistible. The ability to go anywhere, at just a moment’s notice. Wow!
A bit of oneself always goes into a book. Which character has more of your traits?
Difficult! I put parts of myself into Adam, the Overlord. Andrew – his Shadow Lord, and Victoria, the Lord Inquisitor. There are also aspects of my personality in Lei Yeung & Luigi Espasito.
I did this so I could easily identify with the reactions they would have under different circumstances.
I’ll leave it to you to try and guess which parts!
What was the hardest scene to write?
The prologue. This was my first attempt at writing, and I wanted to get the initial invitation/impact right! It sets the tone for the entire book. So, I’m pleased with how it eventually turned out.
How was the editing process for you? Was it a learning experience? Some actually like edits, the more comments, the more progress authors feel they make. Some pull their hair out. Which are you?
Well, I have no hair to pull out (ta-dah!) So, I enjoyed the editing process. I’m new, and I’ve been conditioned by a lifetime’s experience. So, when more experienced writers/editors offer their sound advice and criticism, well, only a fool would turn it down! I’m very fortunate. Pagan Writers Press is a very small, select and close-knit family. I’ve been helped tremendously. I’ve got some great ideas and concepts floating about in my head, and they are helping my skill level catch up to match!
What movie stars would you cast for a movie of this book?
The Overlord – Vin Diesel
Andrew – Karl UrbanVictoria – Angelina Jolie/Penelope cruzNaomi Cruiz – Eliza DushkuLei Yeung – George TakeiLuigi Espasito – still thinking about that, Leonardo De Caprio?
Did you have a picture nearby for inspiration as you wrote this? Did you listen to a special soundtrack?
No – it was all a product of my warped and fragile mind.
What's in your writing future?
I have a series or two I’m planning to develop, News about them are on my site/blog.
But I think the most important thing is to keep doing my best to improve my craft. It returns the trust and ‘risk’ my publishers put in me – as a new boy – and it will ensure my work continues to grow, and bring enjoyment to those who read the books.
At the moment, I still think I’m ‘playing’. I won’t feel comfortable until I can throw everything else aside and concentrate all my efforts into writing full time. (With time out for the films and sequels of course) – see you on the red carpet! I’ll be wearing Giorgio Armani dahling!
Please tell us something about your own career in law enforcement. Did you put anything you have experienced or seen in the novel?
Oh yes.
I served in the military for nine years, followed by twenty-three years in the Police Service. During that time, I lost count of the incidents I had to deal with where someone’s life was changed forever by unexpected tragedy!Life is a very fragile thing, and “out of the blue” such things can strike when people least expect it, bringing untold calamity and suffering.
Attending those incidents often used to make me think, “What would have happened if we had got here sooner? Or if we had the resources or training to undo all this suffering and damage? What would it be like to have the technology and training to not only anticipate such accidents and disasters, but prevent them happening in the first place?
That’s how the Guardian concept was born.
The one accident that inspired me to actually put my thoughts together into a more structured form involved the death of a young boy on his way home at the end of a school day.
Rush hour traffic is dangerous at the best of times. When you add in the factor of a little boy with little appreciation of the hazards involved, well…you can guess what happened.
The scene was horrendous, as were the terrible sobs of the woman driving the vehicle he ran out in front of. She was a mother herself, and her anguish was heart rending, even though there was nothing she could have done to avoid him.
That’s why the opening chapter of Guardian Angels involves a young boy stepping out into the path of a truck. It describes what ALL the Emergency Service personnel there that day wish could have happened, had someone like a Guardian Angel been there to help.
Thanks for the interview Tara. Great questions. I really enjoyed being here.
Andy.
Really enjoyed having you, Andy, and for those of you whose interest was no doubt piqued by his answers, here is more about the book:
In a series of terrifying events, otherworldly beings intervene to save innocent lives. The world community reacts with relief as they realize that angels may in fact exist, and they are diligently protecting us.
But there are those who would seek to stop what they feel is a threat against their livelihoods. How far will some go to battle the Guardians? Is the fairy tale over before it even begins?
Guardian Angels is a powerful and compelling story about the catalyst that has the power to unite society in the hope for a better future. The spark of hope is fragile—can it last?
Buy Link Pagan Writers Press
Excerpt: (Unedited)Luigi decided to toast himself and his accomplishments again. Finding his glass empty, he rang the bell for a top up, and continued to gloat, firmly believing he was beyond accountability.
When the door to the study opened a few minutes later and Gianni, the housekeeper, came in with his favorite Black Pearl Louis XIII cognac on a silver tray, he insisted the old servant stay with him and drink to his success. “Come, Gianni, stay, celebrate with me. Good times should be shared with trusted friends.”
The gesture wasn’t missed by Gianni. At fifty-five thousand dollars a bottle, the cognac was one of the most expensive in the world, and he quickly poured a generous helping into two glasses. As he handed one to his boss, he paused momentarily to savor the bouquet of the blended flowers, fruits, spices, and the deep amber color of the aromatic liquid. “You’re looking particularly pleased with yourself today, young Sir. Good news?”
“It’s the very best of news, Gianni, and one that appears to be maturing with age.” He replied without looking away from the screens.
The old housekeeper tossed down his drink in one and shuffled to stand deferentially behind his employer. He listened as yet more reports of the suffering caused by the missile detonations were announced. “That mess doesn’t look like there’s much to be happy about, Sir. Surely that doesn’t please you, does it?”
“Aah, Gianni, sometimes, when you need to make a point, you have to catch your enemy’s attention,” Luigi replied. “You have to ensure they not only respect you, but fear you. I’m pleased because I’ve done just that. Wouldn’t you agree, my old friend?”When no reply was forthcoming, Luigi naturally assumed the old housekeeper must have been unable to hear his question. Turning in his seat, he felt a peculiar throbbing, tingling sensation in his teeth and sinuses. “I said ‘wouldn’t you agr . . . .’”Luigi’s voice choked off in his throat as he caught sight of Gianni’s eyes. The distinctive, familiar, lazy old eyes of his long-time employee seemed to be undergoing some kind of metamorphosis. Gone was the semi-vacant, un-focused faraway look he always seemed to display as he pottered about. Instead, Luigi was looking into the hardest, most piercing eyes he had ever seen, eyes that seemed to glow with an inner furnace to match the cold look of rage chiseled onto his face.The shock made him drop his glass onto the carpet, spilling about three thousand dollars worth of the deep amber nectar.
Transfixed he watched as Gianni’s body straightened, grew, and bulked out. As the years fell away from his face, he realized without a doubt that he was going to fully shoulder the burdens his choices had wrought.
Before him stood his own personal living nightmare made flesh, dressed from head to toe in black. Instantly he felt the fire rising within him, straining for release.The Guardian stepped forward, making the barest of gestures with his finger as he did so, and Luigi found himself lifted into the air by some unseen force. He was held motionless, helpless as a puppet awaiting the commands of his master.
Nodding at the screens, the Guardian spoke. “Allow me to introduce myself. I am Andrew, Guardian Lord of Shadow Operations. Did you seriously think you’d get away with something like this?”
Luigi stared defiantly back, fighting to overcome his shock at the Guardian’s presence, and surprised at the lack of access to his ability. “Do what you want, asshole, at least the world sees you as the frauds I knew you were!” he hissed.
“Do what I want? I’d love to, but unfortunately my boss won’t let me.”Luigi stared impotently back at his nemesis as he strolled closer. Once he was standing in front of him, the Shadow Lord said, “As for exposing us as frauds? Well, I really don’t know why you would think that. We never said or intimated we could be everywhere at once. The world’s a sad enough place as it is without you adding to it. All we are doing is trying to help people avoid as much heartbreak as possible.”Andrew pointed to the repeat bulletins on the screens. “So, once the world finds out that all this was the deliberate act of some sick and twisted psycho who didn’t care how many suffered, just so long as he could score some points, how do you think they’ll react to you, Luigi?”
The point struck home. Luigi struggled in an attempt to slap the Guardian across the face, to do something to help vent the building fury inside him.
Helpless, he continued stewing as the Guardian moved so close he was able to whisper in his ear. “And when they find out about your abilities, can you even begin to imagine how they’ll react to that? You worthless, spineless, pathetic little man. I really wish they’d let me play with you before we throw you to the wolves.”
“F*ck off, asshole, you don’t scare me.”
“Scare you?” Andrew smiled wickedly. “Oh no, Luigi, that’s not my job. That’s hers!”The Guardian gestured behind Luigi at the same moment he let go with his telekinesis. Although Luigi only dropped about a foot, he crumpled to the floor, becoming acutely aware that the strange throbbing in his teeth was even more pronounced than before.
Turning, Luigi was met with a vision of such barely contained power and fury that he immediately soiled his pants.
Andrew squatted beside him. “Allow me to introduce you to the head of our investigations branch. This is Victoria, our Lord Inquisitor, and she’s very pleased to meet you after all the suffering you’ve caused.”
Victoria stood in front of the TV screens, wreathed in a visible static discharge that blew the circuits of all the electrical equipment in the office and made the hairs on Luigi’s arms and head stand on end. Her eyes, so similar to those of the Shadow Lord, intensified in luminosity and turned from grey to white hot. Luigi shielded his eyes and cowered on the floor in his own excrement.
What a fool I am. He thought.
In reply to his thoughts, the Shadow Lord said, “Yes Luigi, what a murderous, cowardly fool of a man you are. I think the whole world will agree when they find out, eh?”
About Andrew:If you had the power to make a difference…would you?
Andrew P Weston was born in the city of Birmingham, UK and grew up in the towns of Bearwood and Edgbaston, eventually attending Holly Lodge Grammar School for Boy’s where he was School Captain and Head Boy.He was an active sportsperson for the school, college and a variety of rugby, martial art, swimming and athletics teams throughout the city.
On graduation in 1977 he joined the Royal Marines fulfilling a number of roles both in the UK and abroad.
In 1985 he became a police officer with the Devon & Cornwall Constabulary, and served in a variety of uniformed and plain clothed departments until his retirement in 2008.
Over those years, he wrote and illustrated a selection of private books for his children regarding the life of a tiny kitten, called, “The Adventures of Willy Whiskers”, gained further qualifications in Law and Religious Studies, was an active member of Mensa and continued to be an active sportsperson, providing lessons free of charge to local communities.
An unfortunate accident received on duty meant Andrew had to retire early from the police force, but after moving to the sunny Greek island of Kos to speed up his recuperation, he was at last able to devote time to the “Guardian Concept” he had developed over his years in the military and police.
When not writing, Andrew enjoys Greek dancing and language lessons, being told what to do by his wife, Annette, and hunting shadows in the dark.
November 29, 2012
Strong is Sexy Heroine of the Week: Kelly O’Day
Book: Wytchfae RunesAuthor: Flossie Benton RogersHeroine: Kelly O’DayKelly O’Day is the strong, sexy heroine of Wytchfae Runes, the first book in the paranormal romance series Wytchfae. Kelly defies orders for the sake of the Viking ghost Ingvar and plunges headlong into dark dimensions to rescue him when he is captured by sinister forces. To Ingvar, nothing is sexier than a strong woman who extends her heart.
Here is the hero’s first perception of her:In his mind’s eye, Ingvar remembered her as she maneuvered within the eerie circle of green light. Small of stature, but strong looking, she had reminded Ingvar of a queen or a goddess. Golden hair haloed a memorable face with the slightest indication of dimples. A long time ago, he had rubbed his fingers over a stone engraving of the Goddess Freya. This woman had the same unfathomable look about her. Power bled off her like the northern lights.And yet, at the same time, she had looked all woman. She had taken his measure. His body still prickled from the heat of her eyes on him.
Soon Kelly really starts to get under his skin:She looked refreshed, as if she had been up early sipping the morning faery dew. He marveled to himself how this wench, no this woman, this remarkable Wytchfae was turning him poetic. Something about her eased the torment he had long endured.Blurb:A faery witch or Wytchfae, Kelly O’Day’s job is to transition ghosts to their afterlife. When she falls for sexy Viking ghost Ingvar Hrothson she breaks the rule against personal involvement.Cursed over a thousand years ago to roam the earth as a restless spirit, Ingvar is hell bent on two things—save his sister and destroy the evil sorceress responsible for her death. He needs Kelly to help him go back in time. Hating all forms of dark power, he never dreamed he would be bewitched by a flesh and blood woman with magical powers.
Kelly and Ingvar battle sinister forces and multiple attempts on their lives. With their attraction approaching supernova, the couple must decide whether their romance of a lifetime is also worth fighting for.
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