Cassandra Dean's Blog: Blog of Bloggy Blogness, page 13
July 22, 2013
Winner! Hot Summer Romance Giveaway Hop
Peeps, we have a winner! Congratulations…
Valerie Rhodes!
Valerie has won a USD$5 Amazon.com Gift Card, a signed SILK & SCANDAL postcard and a SILK & SCANDAL magnet. Congrats, Beverly G!
I’d also like to extend a massive THANK YOU to all who participated. I’m so thrilled you all visited and I hope you had a fantabulous time! Enjoy your summers! And your winters…
xx
July 17, 2013
Hot Summer Romance Giveaway Hop
The Hot Summer Romance Giveaway Hop is hosted by Malia Mallory. Let the celebrations begin!
Hey peeps!
Welcome to the Hot Summer Romance Giveaway Hop. Big thanks go to Malia Mallory for hosting.
For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Cassandra Dean and I write historical romance ranging from sweet to steamy. I also play about in the eras, roaming from Ancient Rome to Victorian to the Old West and beyond.
I’m so excited to be a part of this blog, if only so I can vicariously experience summer through it! You see, I’m from Down Under, that wide brown land we call Australia where it’s winter. Cold, wet, windy winter. It does my soul good to imagine I’m seated on a beach somewhere, cocktail in one hand, book in another and a cabana boy who looks a lot like Michael Fassbender gently fanning me with a palm leaf. Oh my, what an image. That’s enough to raise my temperature, even without the warmth of the sun.
Summer is a perfect time for a good reading session, isn’t it? You can sit in the sun by the pool, have that cabana boy bring you drinks, and devour book upon book. Of course, winter’s a great time to read too, snuggled under a blanket as a fire roars beside you. Actually, any time of year is great for reading…
If you’re from the Northern Hemisphere, I hope you’re enjoying a glorious summer. If you’re from the Southern Hemisphere, I feel your pain. However, in just a few short months it will be spring and then we in the Southern Hemisphere will be enjoying summer once more. Huzzah!
Thanks so much for hanging with me, peeps, and don’t forget the giveaway below.
xx
Eight years ago…
Thomas Cartwright and Lady Nicola Fitzgibbons were friends. Over the wall separating their homes, Thomas and Nicola talked of all things – his studies to become a barrister, her frustrations with a lady’s limitations.
All things end.
When her diplomat father gains a post in Hong Kong, Nicola must follow. Bored and alone, she falls into scandal. Mired in his studies of the law and aware of the need for circumspection, Thomas feels forced to sever their ties.
But now Lady Nicola is back…and she won’t let him ignore her.
Available NOW
Decadent Publishing
Amazon: US | UK | Canada
Barnes & Noble | Smashwords | All Romance eBooks
Cassandra grew up daydreaming, inventing fantastical worlds and marvelous adventures. Once she learned to read (First phrase – To the Beach. True story), she was never without a book, reading of other people’s fantastical worlds and marvelous adventures.
Fairy tales, Famous Fives, fantasies and fancies; horror stories, gumshoe detectives, science fiction; Cassandra read it all. Then she discovered Romance and a true passion was born.
So, once upon a time, after making a slight detour into the world of finance, Cassandra tried her hand at writing. After a brief foray into horror, she couldn’t discount her true passion. She started to write Romance and fell head over heels.
The love affair exists to this very day.
Cassandra lives in Adelaide, South Australia.
You can find Cassandra at:
CassandraDean.com ~ Cassandra and Lucy ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Goodreads ~ Tumblr ~ Pintrest ~ Amazon.com
And now, the giveaway#!
What books do you peeps like to read during your summer holidays? What have INHALED by the pool, as a Michael Fassbender look-alike attends to your every whim?
Comment below on your favourite summer readers, leave your email address, and you’ll go in the running to win!
One lucky commenter will win a USD$5 Amazon.com Gift Card, as well as a signed SILK & SCANDAL postcard, and a SILK & SCANDAL magnet. International entries are welcome – if Australia Post can reach your country, you can enter.
There’s also a Grand Prize*. Comment on each of the stops to increase your chances of winning:
1st Prize: A Kindle Fire
2nd Prize: A USD$50 Amazon Gift Card
Nifty prize, hey? 
Click the link below to start hopping.
=====================================================================
# The small print: Comment before midnight on 22 July 2013 (Australian Central Standard Time) to be entered to win a USD$5 Amazon.com Gift Card, one (1) signed SILK & SCANDAL postcard and one (1) SILK & SCANDAL magnet. Winner will be selected via random.org, with winner’s name posted on this blog within three days of the close of the giveaway. Cassandra will also contact the winner by e-mail; the winner will be required to reply with their postal address so Cassandra can send the prize to them.
Only one entry per ISP address. Entrants must be over 18 years of age. By entering, you agree Cassandra can use your name when announcing the winner if you should win. If potential prize winner forfeits or does not claim the prize, prize will be re-awarded, in Sponsor’s sole discretion. All prizes will be awarded. International entries are welcome. No purchase necessary to enter. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. Void where prohibited by law.
*Grand Prize is run by Malia Mallory. Please address any queries to http://abcsoferotica.wordpress.com.
Hot Summer Romance Giveaway Hop
The Hot Summer Romance Giveaway Hop is hosted by Malia Mallory. Let the celebrations begin!
Hey peeps!
Welcome to the Hot Summer Romance Giveaway Hop. Big thanks go to Malia Mallory for hosting.
For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Cassandra Dean and I write historical romance ranging from sweet to steamy. I also play about in the eras, roaming from Ancient Rome to Victorian to the Old West and beyond.
I’m so excited to be a part of this blog, if only so I can vicariously experience summer through it! You see, I’m from Down Under, that wide brown land we call Australia where it’s winter. Cold, wet, windy winter. It does my soul good to imagine I’m seated on a beach somewhere, cocktail in one hand, book in another and a cabana boy who looks a lot like Michael Fassbender gently fanning me with a palm leaf. Oh my, what an image. That’s enough to raise my temperature, even without the warmth of the sun.
Summer is a perfect time for a good reading session, isn’t it? You can sit in the sun by the pool, have that cabana boy bring you drinks, and devour book upon book. Of course, winter’s a great time to read too, snuggled under a blanket as a fire roars beside you. Actually, any time of year is great for reading…
If you’re from the Northern Hemisphere, I hope you’re enjoying a glorious summer. If you’re from the Southern Hemisphere, I feel your pain. However, in just a few short months it will be spring and then we in the Southern Hemisphere will be enjoying summer once more. Huzzah!
Thanks so much for hanging with me, peeps, and don’t forget the giveaway below.
xx
Eight years ago…
Thomas Cartwright and Lady Nicola Fitzgibbons were friends. Over the wall separating their homes, Thomas and Nicola talked of all things – his studies to become a barrister, her frustrations with a lady’s limitations.
All things end.
When her diplomat father gains a post in Hong Kong, Nicola must follow. Bored and alone, she falls into scandal. Mired in his studies of the law and aware of the need for circumspection, Thomas feels forced to sever their ties.
But now Lady Nicola is back…and she won’t let him ignore her.
Available NOW
Decadent Publishing
Amazon: US | UK | Canada
Barnes & Noble | Smashwords | All Romance eBooks
Cassandra grew up daydreaming, inventing fantastical worlds and marvelous adventures. Once she learned to read (First phrase – To the Beach. True story), she was never without a book, reading of other people’s fantastical worlds and marvelous adventures.
Fairy tales, Famous Fives, fantasies and fancies; horror stories, gumshoe detectives, science fiction; Cassandra read it all. Then she discovered Romance and a true passion was born.
So, once upon a time, after making a slight detour into the world of finance, Cassandra tried her hand at writing. After a brief foray into horror, she couldn’t discount her true passion. She started to write Romance and fell head over heels.
The love affair exists to this very day.
Cassandra lives in Adelaide, South Australia.
You can find Cassandra at:
CassandraDean.com ~ Cassandra and Lucy ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Goodreads ~ Tumblr ~ Pintrest ~ Amazon.com
And now, the giveaway#!
What books do you peeps like to read during your summer holidays? What have INHALED by the pool, as a Michael Fassbender look-alike attends to your every whim?
Comment below on your favourite summer readers, leave your email address, and you’ll go in the running to win!
One lucky commenter will win a USD$5 Amazon.com Gift Card, as well as a signed SILK & SCANDAL postcard, and a SILK & SCANDAL magnet. International entries are welcome – if Australia Post can reach your country, you can enter.
There’s also a Grand Prize*. Comment on each of the stops to increase your chances of winning:
1st Prize: A Kindle Fire
2nd Prize: A USD$50 Amazon Gift Card
Nifty prize, hey? Click the link below to start hopping.
=====================================================================
# The small print: Comment before midnight on 22 July 2013 (Australian Central Standard Time) to be entered to win a USD$5 Amazon.com Gift Card, one (1) signed SILK & SCANDAL postcard and one (1) SILK & SCANDAL magnet. Winner will be selected via random.org, with winner’s name posted on this blog within three days of the close of the giveaway. Cassandra will also contact the winner by e-mail; the winner will be required to reply with their postal address so Cassandra can send the prize to them.
Only one entry per ISP address. Entrants must be over 18 years of age. By entering, you agree Cassandra can use your name when announcing the winner if you should win. If potential prize winner forfeits or does not claim the prize, prize will be re-awarded, in Sponsor’s sole discretion. All prizes will be awarded. International entries are welcome. No purchase necessary to enter. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. Void where prohibited by law.
*Grand Prize is run by Malia Mallory. Please address any queries to http://abcsoferotica.wordpress.com.
July 16, 2013
Hump Day Hook – Enslaved #HDH #historical #romance
Welcome to Hump Day Hook, a weekly list of authors showcasing their work around the Internets. A big thanks to the wonderful peeps at Hump Day Hook for making this possible.
This week, I’m celebrating two years published! That’s right, two years ago ENSLAVED was released and I officially became a published author. To celebrate, I’m holding a contest so make sure you click on the link to enter to WIN.
Now, on with the hook:
Leaning my forearms against the balustrade of the viewing platform, I watched Marcus battle another of my father’s champions, a Greek my father had purchased years ago. Back and forth they sparred, strength and speed behind each move.
The Greek raised his sword, striking fast. Marcus blocked the move and the strength of both gladiators locked the swords together. Face set in concentration, muscles standing in relief, Marcus strained against the force of the Greek. Mouth dry, I ran my gaze over his arms, his shoulders, the play of his back as he pushed against the sword. His loincloth had fallen from his hip, such that he appeared as naked from the side, a thin strip of cloth bisecting his hip the only break in the golden expanse of his flesh.
Learn MORE about ENSLAVED here
Visit Hump Day Hook and discover more wonderful authors!
July 15, 2013
Happy Book Birthday, ENSLAVED! I’m celebrating two years published with a giveaway
Happy Book Birthday, ENSLAVED !
Today is the two year anniversary of my debut release, ENSLAVED. At the moment, ENSLAVED is on sale for $1.99 at Decadent Publishing, All Romance eBooks, Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk, Barnes & Noble and other good ebook retailers.
To celebrate my two year anniversary, I’m holding a giveaway#. Comment below to go in the running to win a Prize of Mystery – the Prize will contain objects of Wonder and Enchantment and all things Delightful. International entries are welcome – if Australia Post can reach your country, you can enter.
The giveaway ends on 23 July, so make sure you enter quick.
In other news, SILK & SCANDAL is currently on tour. There’s a fabulous giveaway of a US$25 Amazon.com Gift Card at the end of the tour – make sure you stop by every stop to increase your chances of winning.
Thanks for stopping by and Happy Birthday ENSLAVED!
=====================================================================
# The small print: Comment before midnight on 23 July 2013 (Australian Central Standard Time) to be entered to win one (1) mystery prize. Prize will be comprised of items at Cassandra’s discretion. Winner will be selected via random.org, with winner’s name posted on this blog within three days of the close of the giveaway. Cassandra will also contact the winner by e-mail; the winner will be required to reply with their postal address so Cassandra can send the prize to them.
Only one entry per ISP address. Entrants must be over 18 years of age. By entering, you agree Cassandra can use your name when announcing the winner if you should win. If potential prize winner forfeits or does not claim the prize, prize will be re-awarded, in Sponsor’s sole discretion. All prizes will be awarded. International entries are welcome. No purchase necessary to enter. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. Void where prohibited by law.
SILK & SCANDAL Virtual Book Tour Starts Today
Presented by Goddess Fish Promotions, the SILK & SCANDAL Virtual Book Tour starts today. Follow the tour for your chance to WIN a USD$25 Amazon Gift Card, as well as SILK & SCANDAL swag.
Make sure you stop by and comment at the following stops:
July 15: Romantic Historical Lovers
July 16: Flirting With Romance
July 16: Queen of the Night Reviews
July 18: Books and Other Spells
July 18: Long Ago Love
July 19: Krystal Shannan – Where Love and Destiny Collide
July 19: Charlene Raddon’s Chatterblog
See you on the tour, peeps.
THE SILK SERIES, BOOK 1
Eight years ago…
Thomas Cartwright and Lady Nicola Fitzgibbons were friends. Over the wall separating their homes, Thomas and Nicola talked of all things – his studies to become a barrister, her frustrations with a lady’s limitations.
All things end.
When her diplomat father gains a post in Hong Kong, Nicola must follow. Bored and alone, she falls into scandal. Mired in his studies of the law and aware of the need for circumspection, Thomas feels forced to sever their ties.
But now Lady Nicola is back…and she won’t let him ignore her.
July 10, 2013
Have you been watching…New Girl
My love of TV + my blog = Awesome fun sharing times.
Enjoy the shows I think are The Shizz
New Girl
New Girl is a nifty little hang out show that evolved from something I kinda thought I’d watch because hey, I had nothing better to do, to a show where I. Must. Know. What. Happens. Next!!! It also has the best will they/won’t they on TV at the moment, which has been built by showing the characters, gasp, getting to know each other! 
Liking each other as friends! Finding things to admire about each other! Letting the attraction grow naturally! My word, WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT SUCH A THING WOULD WORK?
It also features the best first kiss ever.
New Girl follows the antics of Jessica Day and her three roommates – Nick, Winston and Schmidt. Rounding out the regular cast is Jess’s best friend CeCe. It’s a hangout comedy, where we just hang out with these peeps and enjoy their fun times. The show brings a smile to myself with every single episode.
The characters are fantastic. Schmidt is super funny, and the way Max Greenfield pronounces his words is fantastic. Funny ha ha, my friends. CeCe is more than her extremely pretty face, a well rounded three dimensional character who is totally believable as Jess’s best friend and as one half of the other romantic relationship in the show. Winston is less well-rounded, but he still gets some very funny gags, especially when he puts on his deep, resonant voice. All characterisations are exceptional, with no one ever acting out of character. The show also deals with some darker subjects, such as the death of Nick’s father, CeCe learning her childbearing years are dwindling, and other big life issues.
And then there’s Nick and Jess.
The show did a fantastic job of gradually showing how these two grow closer. They talk and are there for each other and…and other super awesome ‘real life’ things that makes it extremely believable they would be good as a couple. I’ve recently rewatched both seasons and their gradual drawing together in season two is great. Seriously, peeps, check it out.
I’m not sure if I’ve adequately described how fun and heartwarming this show is, so perhaps you peeps should just check it out for yourselves!
You can check out New Girl at:
the Website ~ Amazon US ~ IMDb
July 9, 2013
Hump Day Hook #HDH #historical #romance
Welcome to Hump Day Hook, a weekly list of authors showcasing their work around the Internets. A big thanks to the wonderful peeps at Hump Day Hook for making this possible.
This week, a brand new story! SILK & SCORN, The Silk Series Book 2. It’s coming soon, peeps, so this is an extra special sneak peak!
Irritation tugged, but Arthur suppressed it. Emotion would get him nowhere. “Mrs. Wetherall?”
With a sweep of her skirts, she turned from her contemplation, ridiculous hat still disguising her face. He frowned. That enormous hat was absurd. Why did women think such things were attractive? In addition to being ludicrous, it no doubt put undue pressure and strain upon her neck.
The lady and her hat settled into the chair before his desk. Ill at ease, Arthur sank to his own chair.
Lacing her hands in her lap, the lady finally spoke. “I find I require the services of a solicitor in regards to my late husband’s will.”
The hair at the back of his neck stood up. No. Oh, Christ, no.
She looked up, and every muscle in Arthur’s body seized.
Mrs. Wetherall, formerly Miss Sarah Stanhope and the bane of his childhood, glared at him from beneath her ridiculous hat.
Learn MORE about SILK & SCORN here
Visit Hump Day Hook and discover more wonderful authors!
July 3, 2013
Have you been watching…A Place To Call Home
My love of TV + my blog = Awesome fun sharing times.
Enjoy the shows I think are The Shizz
A Place to Call Home
A Place to Call Home is a new show on the Seven network here in Oz. Initially, I dismissed it as a Downton Abbey rip-off – big country house, check. Rich, privileged family, check. Upstairs, downstairs shenanigans, check. Finally, seven or eight weeks into its run, I finally checked it out.
Peeps. I’m shocked. It’s actually good.
A Place to Call Home follows the adventures of Sarah Adams, a nurse returned from Europe to Australia’s shores. Set in the 1950s, Sarah works as a nurse on the ship transporting her from London to Sydney where she met the wealthy Blyth family. While employing her trade with the matriarch of the family, she intrigued the matriarch’s son, as well as his adult children. Quickly, she is extended an invitation of employment in the hospital of the Blyth family’s home town, and after quick scene or two where the show pretends she’s not going to accept, she rocks up in Wandin Valley Inverness. Shenanigans ensue, as they so often do.
What’s noteworthy about this show is how strong the female characters are. Sarah is a marvel, a self-possessed woman who takes crap from no one. The bitchy matriarch, Elizabeth, is bitchy, but you can clearly see what she does, she does for love of her family. The daughter, Anna, is less awesome, but she’s still far from the cliche most shows would portray her as. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for the male characters, however half a cast of three-dimensional, well-rounded characters is a HUGE step up for Australian drama, so I’m happy.
There is a distinct Australian-ness to the show which I love. I don’t watch many shows set in Australia and so it’s refreshing to be able to identify so clearly with the characters. They speak how I speak, drink beer from longnecks, listen to the cricket, and just generally be Australian. This is, as they say, bonza.
You can check out A Place to Call Home at:
the Website ~ JB Hi-Fi ~ IMDb
July 2, 2013
Hump Day Hook #HDH #western #historical #romance
Welcome to Hump Day Hook, a weekly list of authors showcasing their work around the Internets. A big thanks to the wonderful peeps at Hump Day Hook for making this possible.
This week, a little bit from FOOL’S GOLD, second in The Diamond Series:
Again, a blush heated Pearl’s skin, and a strange kind of pleasure, too. She’d been told all manner of things regarding her person, that she were an angel, a nymph, a goddess come to life. All these things she’d dismissed, much as she’d dismissed the men saying them. But Garrett telling her, with a tilt to his mouth and a solemnity to his eyes, her hair was a glory had her all flustered and downright flattered.
You can learn MORE about FOOL’S GOLD here
Visit Hump Day Hook and discover more wonderful authors!
