Jean Murray's Blog, page 12
February 18, 2013
Author Open MIC: Welcomes Juli D. Revezzo
Welcome!
Hey, folks. I want to welcome our next guest to Wicked Romance. Juli D. Revezzo is one of the most hard-working writers I know. She has a nice line up of books that she is going to introduce to us today. Let me tell you a little bit about Juli….
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Juli D. Revezzo
Juli D. Revezzo is a Florida girl, with a love of fantasy, science fiction, and Arthurian legend, so much so she gained a B.A. in English and American Literature. She loves writing stories with fantastical elements whether it be a full-on fantasy, or a story set in this world–slightly askew. She has been published in short form in Eternal Haunted Summer, Dark Things II: Cat Crimes (a charity anthology for cat related charities), Luna Station Quarterly, The Scribing Ibis: An Anthology of Pagan Fiction in Honor of Thoth, and Twisted Dreams Magazine. She recently released her debut novel, The Artist’s Inheritance.
She also has an article and book review or two out there.But her heart lies in the storytelling. She is a member of the Independent Author Network and the Magic Appreciation Tour.
Author Homepage: http://julidrevezzo.com/
On Author’s Den: http://www.authorsden.com/julidrevezzo
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Juli-D-Revezzo/233193150037011
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/111476709039805267272/
Library Thing: http://www.librarything.com/profile/julidrevezzo
LinkedIN: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/juli-d-revezzo/1a/39/772
Shelfari: http://www.shelfari.com/authors/a1002694572/Juli-D-Revezzo/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/julidrevezzo
INTERVIEW
Hi, Juli. Welcome to Wicked Romance and a spotlight we call Author Open MIC.
How did you get into writing? Was it something you were born with or did you discover your hidden talent?
I’d always made up stories, but I didn’t really start putting them down in narrative form until high school. Before that I confined most of my “storytelling” to poetry and song lyric form.
Tell us a little about the genre/s you write. What attracted you to them?
I write fantasy of just about any ilk. I think the attraction of them is the imaginative quality involved in building magic systems and otherworlds. There’s so much you can do in fantasy so long as you don’t violate the laws of physics you can pretty much get away with anything. 
What is the most difficult hurdle you have encountered?
Finding the right audience and branding. ugh.
What advice would you give others who face the same challenges?
Be persistent and write what you love. You’ll find others to love it too eventually.
You have built up quite an array of books. Please take a moment to tell us a little about each one. Do you have a favorite?
Well, right now, my favorite would have to be The Artist’s Inheritance. The story goes thusly:
Settling into their new home in Gulf Breeze, Florida, Caitlin finds strange changes coming over her husband Trevor. He seems obsessed with a beautiful chair he’s carving.
When the nightmares deepen and ghosts begin lurking—she knows something’s not right, and not just her newfound precognitive abilities. It’s the damned chair, she’s sure. Could it be just what it seems: a mundane piece of furniture? If so, why is it attracting dark forces—the forces she suspects drove Trevor’s siblings to insanity and suicide?
Before the same happens to Trevor, Caitlin must convince him to sell his art. But armed with only a handful of allies, and little experience of the supernatural, she must proceed with caution against the hellish forces besieging her family. If she succeeds, she will break the ancestral curse. If she fails, she may lose forever the one thing she cares about most: her beloved Trevor.
Cait really learns a lot about herself while she’s learning about her husband’s problems and I like how she begins coming into her own. I look forward to writing more about her in the future.
If you’d like to check it out, it’s available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Createspace, and Smashwords.
The other is House of Cards
You can’t escape Fate….
A young nobleman escapes the Reign of Terror in 18th century France to find himself dragged into an even worse fate–a hellish underworld wherein he is cajoled and put on trial by a demon tribunal for crimes he never committed. Can he thwart his fate, one worse than the guillotine?
It’s also available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Smashwords.
Where can readers find you and your books. (links, purchase and social media)
They’re available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Createspace and Smashwords
Open MIC fav five:
1. Favorite hero or heroine
Elric of Melnibone, for a hero and for a heroine–well, I really like Emma in Once Upon A Time.
2. Favorite author
Michael Moorcock
3. Favorite music to write by
We usually have music always going around my house but it really depends on the story. For instance, if I’m writing something like House of Cards that’s set during the French Reign of Terror, I’d be likely to listen to Classical of some ilk. Rites of Spring and Carmina Burana. For something like The Artist’s Inheritance I recall listening to some Sarah McLachlan. I have others that have been touched by Metallica and Rob Zombie, as well as still others where I recall listening to a Gloria Estefan CD or Lila Downs.
4. Favorite inspiration
Reading mythology and old legends. More than one story has been inspired by something of that ilk.
5. Most memorable writing moment
I guess I have to say when I actually finished my first full novel, several years ago, if not, when I released The Artist’s Inheritance.
***
BOOK INFORMATION
Trouble only a witch can solve…
Settling into a new home, Caitlin notices changes coming over her husband. When ghosts and dark supernatural entities begin lurking–Caitlin knows something’s not right, and not just her newfound precognitive abilities. It’s the damned chair her husband’s carving, she’s sure. Could it be just what it seems: a mundane piece of furniture? If so, why is it attracting dark forces–the forces she suspects drove Trevor’s siblings to insanity and suicide?
Armed with a handful of allies–a coven of helpful witches–she must proceed with caution against the hellish forces besieging her family. If she fails, she may lose forever the one thing she cares about most: her beloved Trevor.
Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/gjMsYqa9nUA
http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/220457
and for the paperback:
https://www.createspace.com/3976218
You can’t escape Fate….
A young nobleman flees the bloody Reign of Terror, France, to find himself dragged into a demonic underworld. An evil hag tortures him during a horrific trial in which he must rely on his wits. Can he thwart his horrible fate, one far worse than the guillotine? Will his knowledge of the Occult and his familiarity with tarot help him survive this ordeal–or seal his doom?
http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/243763
Though their fame became legend, a rumor cropped up about the Fulmer family: Something terrifying stalked Caitlin and her beloved Trevor. Something the bits and pieces she left claimed she had to make sense of. When the curator of their collection finds Caitlin’s long forgotten diary, she wonders will it tell the whole tale? Will it tell why Caitlin seemed so determined to tell the difference between reality and nightmare? Why she thought her world twisted?
Perhaps the answer lies between the lines of her story, one of lessons, struggles, and hopes for each new year.
Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/5tjqR_QPaTo
BOOK EXCERPT: Click HERE
Please post your comments and questions for the author below. We would love to hear from you!
Filed under: Author Open Mic, Giveaway, Guest Author Tagged: author juli d. revezzo, author open mic, Caitlins book of shadows, giveaway, house of cards, one for kami, the artist's inheritance, wicked romance
February 12, 2013
Author Open MIC: Welcomes Louisa Bacio + Giveaway
A FAT Tuesday Welcome!
In honor of Mardi Gras I’m going to spice things up a bit. I’m pleased to introduce Author Open MIC’s next guest, Erotic romance writer, Louisa Bacio. She has an amazing array of books that spans the erotic romance genre to include paranormal, same-sex fiction, and mainstream erotic. Her backlist includes six erotic novels, including the paranormal series The Vampire, The Witch & The Werewolf, and numerous steamy short stories. We are celebrating her new release, Mirabella’s Mardi Gras Menague.
Louisa has an awesome guest post about the colors of Mardi Gras. Also, stick around for Louisa’s Headline News Interview. She also has some fabulous prizes ~ one free PDF copy of one of her back list books and hop over to her blog for more chances to win her Mardi Gras package giveaway. More details below.
The Colors of Mardi Gras
Forever I’ve seen the major colors of Mardi Gras – purple, gold and green, but until recently, I didn’t know what they meant. As I was doing some research for my new release Mirabella’s Mardi Gras Ménage, I came across a site explaining the historical references:
“The official colors of Mardi Gras, with their roots in Catholicism, were chosen 10 years later: purple, a symbol of justice; green, representing faith; and gold, to signify power.” (http://www.americancatholic.org/features/mardigras/)
When most people think of Mardi Gras, they imagine scenes of celebration: drinking, partying, flashing of bare breasts in exchange for colored beads (and you should see what I do with those beads in this novella!). Fat Tuesday, which falls on February 12 this year, is the day before Ash Wednesday, a Catholic holiday. So Fat Tuesday is seen as a last “hurrah” before Lent, a time of temperance, where many people “give up” something.
In the story, before going out to a parade, my characters Nick, Mirabella and Marguerite, dress in all their finery, and each one of them chooses a costume of a different color. Can you guess the three colors used?
Have you ever or would you want to visit New Orleans during Mardi Gras?
While I’m a fan of the city immensely, I don’t care for wild crowds. The opening scene, of Mirabella being swept off her feet, is actually an experience my husband said he had on one occasion, and he’s a big guy.
Contest: Leave a comment and a valid email address, and you’ll be entered to win a .pdf copy of one of the books on my backlist. Also, I’m hosting a release party for Mirabella’s Mardi Gras Ménage – so make sure to check out my blog for the grand prize package!
Thanks so much for hosting me. What a blast!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Louisa Bacio
Love knows no bounds
Louisa Bacio published her first erotic thriller SEX UNIVERSITY: Physical Education in June 2010, and since then has published three more, including The Vampire, The Witch & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Threesome and its sequel Chains of Silver. Louisa enjoys soaking up the sun in Southern California, and spending time with her family. In addition to writing and editing, Bacio teaches college courses in English, journalism, film studies and popular culture.
Author Links
Author site: http://louisabacio.com/
Blog: http://www.louisabacio.blogspot.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/louisabacio
Twitter: http://twitter.com/louisabacio
INTERVIEW
Has writing always been part of your life or did you discover your hidden talent?
Always. Always. I’ve been fortunate to know I wanted to be a writer, for as long as I can remember, so most of what I’ve done has been to that end. And, I feel so fortunate to do what I love.
How do your stories come to you? Are you inspired by an object, picture or place or do they appear in your dreams?
It’s a real variety. Sometimes I dream of an event, and other times I’ve picked up a piece of dialogue somewhere. For this novella, Mirabella’s Mardi Gras Ménage, when I went to publish the first book in the series The Vampire, The Witch & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Threesome, the partial title Mardi Gras Ménage was thrown out. I kinda tucked it away internally. I thought book 4 The Wolfe Pack would be the last one, and then Nick started to act out, and pull some stunts, and Mirabella, who’d been in the background throughout all of the novels, starting speaking up – she wanted her HEA. Well, I love alliteration, and there you go!
What attracted you to write erotic romance? Do you write other genres?
Some of my first writing “dabbling” is actually horror and thriller. I’ve got a partially completed serial killer novel. (Great storyline.) I also have a mainstream women’s fiction that I’ll finish someday. It’s based on three friends – one died after high school, one was diagnosed schizophrenic and went AWOL, and then there’s me.
I’ve always been drawn to romance, though. Both my grandmothers read it. The erotic aspect comes naturally, and I believe it’s a viable aspect of a romantic relationship. Hence, important to show.
With the explosion of 50 Shades of Grey onto the world stage, how do you think that will impact erotic authors like yourself? This genre has always had their devoted followers. Do you think recent awareness will draw more readers?
Immediately, I saw the result. I had some reader-friends who previously told me they only read “Christian fiction.” After they read 50 Shades of Grey, they came around and said, “Well, I could read that … what are your books again?”
Can you share some information about your main character, Mirabella. What draws her to Marguerite and Nick? Is this a new experience for her? And, do they stay together?
Although she’s lived in New Orleans for her entire life, Mirabella has been sheltered by her aunt Teresa, who happens to be a Voodoo priestess. It’s a strange world she lives in. Knowing so much about what happens in the world, and yet not experiencing any of it. Mirabella decides she wants to venture out, experience more, and Marguerite and Nick come about at the right time. She’s known Nick from previous run-ins, but never like this. And no … I’m not telling the ending!
I really like that you have pulled in the paranormal element with Nick? Is he your typical vampire or is he different? How did he become a vampire?
Nick is one of my most favorite characters ever, and I think he’s finally found some happiness here in Mirabella’s Mardi Gras Ménage (at least he’s stopping nagging me, except for scenes I wasn’t able to include in a novella). He’s a tortured soul, and his own vampire nature haunts him. He’s also young, only been turned for two years.
His story spans through three previous books, two as a primary: Book 2: Chains of Silver, and Book 4, The Wolfe Pack. Even if readers pick up those, they’ll hopefully love him as much as I do.
What perfect timing for the release of your book, since it takes place in New Orleans. Have you visited there? What is your favorite part of the city?
Oh, that timing was very much planned! I’ve been to New Orleans three times and the city instantly imprinted itself on my soul. I don’t know what it is … the magic, the allure, a previous life? The French Quarter, by far, is my favorite place, and I would love to live there – for a little bit. (My heart belongs in Southern California.)
What do you are you cooking up next? What can readers expect?
Oooh, that’s a tough one. For the first time in a while, I’m actually contract-free (we’ll see how long that lasts). I have a few submissions out, such as a second book in Decadent Publishing’s 1Night Stand series, and I have a new paranormal romance I’m working on – revising book 1, and want to get started on book 2. We’ll see what the future holds.
Open MIC FAV five:
1. Favorite hero or heroine: I really like the pair of Ivy and Rachel in Kim Harrison’s Hollows series. Both are tough, but flawed. I’d like to see Ivy get a moment of happiness.
2. Favorite author: Almost impossible to say. There are so many – well-known and friends – who I buy regularly.
3. Favorite music to write by: Nine Inch Nails – dark & sultry
4. Favorite inspiration: The real thing
5. Most memorable writing moment: The best writing comes when it’s smooth and not forced. Sometimes the writing flows so easily. With Mirabella’s Mardi Gras Ménage, it really was the characters telling me the story.
BOOK INFORMATION
Mirabella’s Mardi Gras Ménage
Constantly under the watchful eye of her Voodoo priestess aunt, Mirabella longs to break free during the events of Mardi Gras. Escapades draw her into the arms of Marguerite, a fiery redhead with a passion for life, and Nick, a familiar vampire who’s haunted by his transformation and past.
What starts as a new experience – a Mardi Gras Ménage – soon turns deadly, and none of their lives will ever be the same.
Amazon http://amzn.com/B00BD75YEG
Barnes & Noble http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-vampire-the-witch-and-the-werewolf-louisa-bacio/1114472639?ean=2940016223445
Drop in for a visit at
http://www.facebook.com/louisabacio
http://www.twitter.com/louisabacio
Ebook (pdf) of one of Louisa Bacio’s backlist books to one lucky commenter. Enter your comment and email below. (18 years or older)
Enter Mardi Gras Package Giveaway
Click image to enter
Louisa is also holding a tour-wide giveaway. Hop over to her blog to enter the Rafflecopter for a chance to win.
Mardi Gras package includes Kitchen Witch spices, beads, fluer di lis cookie cutter, mask, etouffee mix. Shipping to the U.S. Value is worth $20 + the cost of shipping. I reserve the right to substitute the prize in case product is not available. If the winner is international, they can choose a $15 gift card to either Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Contest ends Feb. 28 at midnight.
Filed under: Author Open Mic, Giveaway, Guest Author Tagged: author open mic, author-Louisa-Bacio, erotic romance, giveaway, mardi gras, wicked romance
February 4, 2013
Author Open MIC: Welcomes Charlene Wilson + Giveaway
Welcome!
Before we get started with Author Open MIC’s next guest. I want to send out a word of thanks to our veteran subscribers and those that have joined in recent months. It has been an exciting and busy time. Since the beginning of the new year, we have met some phenomenal authors. I hope you have enjoyed it as much as I have. If you know of an author, writer or even bloggers or readers you would like to have interviewed or stop over for a visit, drop me an email (murray(dot)jeanm(at)gmail(dot)com and their contact information, and I will certainly try to get them here.
So, without further delay, let me introduce my next guest, Charlene A. Wilson, the author of One for Kami. Charlene was nice enough to provide me a copy to read before this interview. I’ve not had many opportunities to read a novella, but after reading Charlene’s I know now why they are so popular. Charlene has written a fabulous love story in 38 pages. They are like perfect bite size candies. Outstanding for me and my busy schedule, when I can’t delve into a full length novel. Not to mention One for Kami is only $0.99 on Amazon.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Charlene A. Wilson
Creating worlds where dreams become reality.
Charlene is an author of paranormal tales that take you away to other dimensions. She weaves magic, lasting love, and intrigue to immerse you into the lives of her characters.
She began writing in her early teens when her vivid dreams stayed with her long after she had them. The characters and worlds were so amazing that she brought them to life through her books.
Author Links
Author site: http://CharleneAWilson.com
Blog: http://bit.ly/CharBlogs
Facebook: http://bit.ly/CharleneAWilsonFan
Twitter: http://twitter.com/AuthorCAWilson
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/CharleneAWilsonGR
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/charleneawilson/
INTERVIEW
Hi, Charlene. Welcome to Wicked Romance and a spotlight we call Author Open MIC.
Thank you for having me here today, Jean.
How did you get into writing? Was it something you were born with or did you discover your hidden talent?
Oh, I was writing short stories when I was a youth and I’d make my friends listen as I read them. Lol. Bless their hearts. But not long ago I ran into a woman that asked if I still wrote stories. She explained that she had visited with one of her friends during an activity and, as usually, I had shared one. It was called Misty Moon, and she remembered that little story and told me that she would tell it to her children at bedtime. What a surprise! After many years (and I won’t say how many *wink*) she remembered that. Made me feel so good.
Tell us a little about the genre/s you write. What attracted you to write about them?
I think about 90% of my stories are Science Fiction/Fantasy. I do have some contemporary ones in the works, but my imagination just doesn’t fit in that category. Most of my books take place in other dimensions or add the supernatural to our own. I’ve always loved to escape into new worlds where everything was possible. I can see normal things every day, so when I want to be entertained, I like to experience something unique. It’s definitely colored my writing.
Being a novel writer, I’m always fascinated by writers who can write short stories but still have an amazing amount of depth and emotion as a longer novel. What challenges are there when writing a novella versus a novel? How do you overcome these challenges?
Honestly, I struggled to write One for Kami. My mind kept wanting to create more to the story than was necessary. My novels are complicated and all are parts of series that have big underlying plots. It was hard for me to keep it trim and not veer into multiple layers. I had to keep it close to Kami’s point of view and the backbone of the story.
I’ve had a chance to read this book and I love it. Please share with us about your female lead, Kami.
Oh, Kami is an idealist. She’s naïve and believes a perfect world exists somewhere, and to her, a perfect world is where two lovers pledge their hearts and live happily ever after. In her own dimension, Two-Eight-Five, this is only possible (as far as she’s concerned) if the man is from the devastated lower class where they can take only one wife. She was born into an elite family, an only child of her father’s third required wife. She saw the loneliness her mother experienced as he spent most of his attention on the other two families and vowed that would not happen to her. After all, if someone loves you, they want you and only you. Period.
When she meets Ian, he’s sporting a t-shirt and jeans, throwing a sock tied into a knot for a scruffy little dog to catch at the park. Obviously, too poor to afford better, and she thinks he’s from the lower class. And after the third date of peanut butter sandwich pic-nicks by the park, she’s certain of it—who of the elite class elects such a simple activity for date much less is seen in public dressed like that? He didn’t boast of his securities or holdings. Their conversations centered around nature and service to the poor. Definitely not the same as the other elite men she’d encountered. And when a woman happened by and he introduced her as his second KaVilla, the formal name for mother, Kami could have died. She was in love with him…with an elite; which meant someday she would have to share him.
That was so not happening. She leaves her home realm, and Ian, in search of one true love. She wasn’t prepared for what she found.
To be fair, tell us about Ian. Although this book is written from Kami’s point of view, what is going on with Ian behind the scenes?
Oh, so much is going on with Ian! It’s one of the reasons I had a hard time keeping One for Kami a short. He’s a romantic and had pushed the limit when it came to getting married. He’s twenty-four, and by twenty-five, a man should have at least married once. But he was looking for the right woman to begin his life with, and he found that woman in Kami. He’s in love with her and refuses to accept that it’s the end. His family tells him to just pick someone to avoid the harsh punishments for not complying to the law. They fix him up with several, trying to get him to wed before the deadline. But he loves Kami, can’t get her out of his heart and mind.
Despite Kami’s goodbye, Ian has a plan of his own.
Where did you come up with the idea of this alternate dimension? Did some thought or picture inspire the creation of your new world?
Actually, One for Kami is one of the few stories I’ve written that didn’t come from a dream. Not directly, anyway. When Kami entered my mind, this redheaded romantic twirled in the Arboretum scene of a story I was working on and wouldn’t leave. I considered adding her to one of my other books, but she just didn’t fit in those circumstances. But I knew this sweet girl needed to tell her story. It ended up being One for Kami.
What are you cooking up next? What can readers expect?
Right now, I’m in deep revision with a Science Fiction/Fantasy which is book one of my Aumelan series, Aumelan. It has strong romantic elements and takes the reader from deep in the caverns of the World Beneath the Rock to the World of the Sun as Chad searches for a cure to his people’s limitation. They can’t produce life-sustaining energy and require a host to survive. There’s a lot of moral, political, and placement issues in these books and some of it isn’t pretty. But the heart has no boundaries, even though nations do. Three books are written so far, with one more to finish out the series. I look forward to having Aumelan ready to submit this year.
Where can readers find you and your books?
Author site & blog: http://CharleneAWilson.com
Facebook: http://bit.ly/CharleneAWilsonFan
Twitter: http://twitter.com/AuthorCAWilson
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/CharleneAWilsonGR
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/charleneawilson/
And you can find the books at: http://www.amazon.com/Charlene-A.-Wilson/e/B004L3647K/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1
Open MIC FAV 5
Favorite hero or heroine: My mind has been wrapped around Dark Heirloom by J.D. Brown lately, so I’ll have to go with Jalmari ta Korento and Ema Marx.
Favorite author: There are several, but I enjoy LaVyre Spencer and J.K. Rowling.
Favorite music to write by: If I use music, I end up singing along. Lol. So I write to the music of my wind chimes that hang outside my window. J
Favorite inspiration: So many of my stories have evolved from vivid dreams. I definitely would classify them as my inspiration.
Most memorable writing moment: The day I started writing Aumelan. I started at word one and it poured out of me. I didn’t realize I had over 400 thousand words and the equivalent of three and a half books when I paused to check how long it was getting. Such an amazing experience!
BOOK INFORMATION
Can love be true if shared with more than one? Kami doesn’t think so when she finds Ian is an elite and required to take three wives to eliminate the poverty-stricken population. Why can’t he be poor the way she thought he was when she fell in love with him?
Determined to find a realm that doesn’t have such dictates, she travels to dimension Three-Two-Three to begin her search. But is love truer in a place that only allows one spouse than it is in Ian’s heart?
Available at Amazon: http://bit.ly/OneforKami
File Size: 168 KB
Print Length: 38 pages
Publisher: Oracle Bay Books
ASIN: B00ARU2Z6A
What they’re saying
“Sweet, romantic, and heartfelt. A great introduction to the author’s world.”—J.D. Brown Book Club
“One for Kami is a story that will have you willing to give up everything for your one true love.”—Annette, Gothic Mom’s Book Reviews
“[Wilson] spins a tale of true love spanning time and dimensions that will inspire the reader to sacrifice everything to find their soul mate.”—Debbie, Read2Review
BOOK EXCERPT
Chapter 1
Kami’s blouse bunched up her back as she slid down the wide oak’s trunk. Bark grazed her skin and snagged her hair with its aged layers until her bottom hit the ground. She cringed at the sharp pangs. Folding her knees to her chest, she buried her face in her arms and welcomed the punishment. Hurting Ian pained her more than anything she’d done in her life.
Autumn leaves crunched beneath his footsteps as he paced the woodland’s small clearing. Each stride matched two beats of her heart and crushed the sweet memories of their grove. Dust scented the air as he shuffled into a turn.
“Why are you just now telling me this?” His breath hitched and he cleared his throat.
Words wouldn’t form as Kami lifted her gaze.
Setting his hands at his slender waist, his hazel gaze shifted to the shadows of the young birch trees. A cloud of insects drifted through the pale trunks, soft hums filling the air as they paused. Wiping his hand across his strong jaw, he looked back at her.
“You know I love you, Kami.”
Tears stung as they seeped beneath her lids and she blinked to relieve the burn. “I need to be the only one, Ian. I can’t know you might love someone else more than me when you choose another wife.”
She lowered her gaze to the thick roots that surrounded her. They wove within the caramel-colored ground, creating a perfect lounge for two lovers in an embrace. How many times had they sat there and shared their secrets, their love? How many times had he told her she was the one, the only one? She cursed the fact that she was gullible enough to believe it could be true.
Kami forced her voice through her tight throat. “When I first saw you, you were playing with that scruffy looking little dog in the park. Its hair was so long and matted I thought you couldn’t afford to pay a groomer. I thought that sock with the knot in it was all you could come up with to be his toy.”
He lowered his gaze. “That stray lives at the park and I removed my sock to have some fun with him.”
“I know that now. But then I assumed you were poor. And after the third date of peanut butter sandwich picnics by the river, I thought I knew for certain. I mean, who could love peanut butter that much? And what member of the elite class prefers such a simple activity for a date?”
She scanned his solemn countenance. His love of nature was one of the things she adored about him, alongside the fact that he didn’t feel the need to flaunt his wealth. But to keep such a fact from her under the circumstances… “I fell in love with you, believing you would make me the one choice you were allowed as a member of the lower class.”
A gust of wind lifted his black hair to dance around his face. The cheery motion seemed to mock his lips as they dipped into a deep frown. “If it were up to me, I’d have only you. Can’t you believe that? I’ve waited, pushed the age limit to wed, looking for the right one to be my first. My first, Kami. The others will never mean what you do to me.”
“If you really love me, you’d want me alone. No other. Period.” Frustration bubbled in her chest at her misconception of their love.
He tilted his head and bit his lips together. “I can’t help that I was born an elite. If it were possible…”
“If it were possible, what? You’d give up your birthright and join the ranks of the vagabonds who can’t afford food for the one wife and child they’re allowed? Or you’d buck the system and refuse to wed the other two? That would only land you earthbound, exiled to a foreign dimension, and stripped of everything but the clothes you wear. And while you’re considering it, I’d advise you to wear a thick coat and heavy boots because I hear they choose some pretty rough climates for those who refuse to live by this law.”
The sarcastic response rolled off her tongue before she realized it, but she didn’t care. It wasn’t right. None of the counsel’s decisions on eliminating poverty was. The lower class weds one spouse and bears only one child while the elite must choose three and produce as many offspring that would come to them? It was absurd.
Find another way to spread the wealth than through inheritance.
She looked at him, and her voice rose with her exclamation. “I can’t stay here and conform to the laws of this dimension. Not when I know there are other places that don’t require such things. I need the freedom to love whomever I want whoever they are, without the stipulation of a quota. And if that means transferring, then that’s what I’ll do.”
“If your mother was alive…”
“Well, she’s not.” Kami scowled. She had expected him to try to bring her mother into this, but it hurt just the same. “But, I can’t believe she wouldn’t want me to be happy. She was one of a quota, Ian, one that had only one child. Father’s attention stayed on the others.”
Ian’s broad shoulders lifted as he took a deep breath and sent his gaze back to the trees.
“I’m leaving for a six-month stay in Three-Two-Three. With me gone, you’ll be free to start your family before you turn twenty-five. I won’t stand in your way to fulfill your obligation. You’ll have time to find a woman that will happily live by the law.” Her voice lowered to a mumble. “And I won’t have to see you do it.”
Ian’s heavy brow furrowed and his dark lashes narrowed his gaze. “And what will happen if you find someone while you’re there? That realm doesn’t know we exist, Kami. What will you tell him when you leave every six months to come back to renew your travel rights?”
“When I choose someone, it will be because our love is true. He’ll understand I need some time away.”
His mouth dropped open and he shook his head. “What love that’s true has those kinds of secrets?” A scowl crossed his face and he drew his hand through the air. “And what makes you think a love there would be truer than my love here?”
“They choose only one. They pledge their hearts and it lasts a lifetime.”
“Promises can be broken whichever realm you’re in.” Orange and yellow leaves scattered as he marched across the small tract and sunk to the ground before her. Taking her hands in his, he looked into her eyes. “Stay here. Marry me. Be my elite choice. There can be only one first time, and I want it to be you. Let it be enough.”
It took all of Kami’s strength to look away. She clenched her jaw, trying to control the hiccup that would surely release a sob.
Ian shook his head and his voice lowered to a plea. “Please, Kami. Don’t go.”
She pinched her lips together and the hiccup forced its way to her throat. Snatching her breath, she kept it silent, but it jarred her into action. “The consort has already granted my leave. I’ve taken the training and temporary employment is waiting for me. If I can make it work, I’ll arrange to stay longer.”
The frank tone of her voice gave her strength as she stood. “Goodbye, Ian.”
Ian’s hands slowly released her as he rose and stepped back. His square jaw flexed. “Never say goodbye. This isn’t the end.”
Tearing her gaze from his hazel eyes, Kami focused her thoughts on the Inter-dimensional Courtyard. A wave of heat sizzled through her veins as her elements prepared to shift through space. The scene before her distorted and a soft fizz buzzed in her ears as she synced into the atrium.
Available at Amazon: http://bit.ly/OneforKami
E-copy of One for Kami to one lucky commenter. Enter your comment below.
Charlene is also holding a tour-wide giveaway and all commenters will be added to the Rafflecopter for a chance to win.
Click on the Image below to enter.
Click image to enter Rafflecopter giveaway
Filed under: Author Open Mic, Giveaway, Guest Author Tagged: author charlene wilson, author open mic, giveaway, novella, one for kami, wicked romance
February 3, 2013
Reminder: SOUL AWAKENED Bewitching Book Tour ~ Giveaways at each stop + KINDLE FIRE HD
2,000 entries so far: Soul Awakened Book Tour & Kindle Fire HD Giveaway!!!
It’s not to late to catch the tour. Click on the links below.
LOVE FOR BLOOD OR HONOR
Kendra, an Egyptologist and demi-god in waiting, is the key to unlocking Bakari, the Egyptian God of Death, from his cursed slumber. Desperate to free him, she inadvertently binds herself to the god with a spell that only death will undo. To save Bakari from himself, she may have to sacrifice her innocence, and possibly her soul, before he becomes his family’s worst enemy.
HAUNTED BY SINS OF THE PAST
Bakari awakens to a world at war and a beautiful woman who has tethered his soul to hers. In the wake of his self-destruction Kendra is his only hope of salvation, but another has vowed to keep Bakari from the one thing he craves most– his Parvana. His butterfly.
BOOK TRAILER
TOUR SCHEDULE
January 14 Guest blog
Fang-tastic Books – 1 Signed copy of Soul Reborn + $10 Amazon GC
http://fang-tasticbooks.blogspot.com/2013/01/the-heart-of-heroine-guest-blog-and.html
January 15 Interview
Night Owl Magazine Issue 38
Paranormal and Urban Fantasy Column
January 17 Promo and review of Soul Reborn & Soul Awakened
The Solitary Bookworm
http://www.thesolitarybookworm.com/book-review-soul-reborn-soul-awakened-by-jean-murray-giveaway/
January 18 Interview
Roxanne’s Realm
http://www.roxannesrealm.blogspot.com/2013/01/interview-with-jean-murray.html?zx=ab19d815e11d6008
January 20 Interview
The Creatively Green Write at Home Mom
http://www.creativelygreen.blogspot.com/2013/01/interview-and-giveaway-with-author-mom.html
January 21 Guest blog
Paranormal Perceptions Series
http://www.pwcreighton.com/surveillance-report/2013/1/21/paranormal-perceptions-cursed.html
January 22 Promo
http://bitten2ice.com/promo-soul-awakened-by-jean-murray/
January 30 Interview
http://vividumas.wordpress.com/2013/01/30/soul-awakened-by-jean-murray/
February 1 Promo and review
Deal Sharing Aunt
http://www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/2013/02/soul-awakened-by-jean-murray-review.html
February 2 Guest blog and review of Soul Reborn & Soul Awakened
Crazy Four Books
February 3 Promo and review
Readaholic’s Reviews,
http://readaholicsreviews.com/soul-awakened-book-review-giveaway-excerpt/
February 4 Guest blog
http://www.christina-mcknight.blogspot.com/2013/02/guest-post-jean-murray-soul-awakened.html
February 4 Promo
http://victoriadanann.me/2013/02/04/soul-awakened-feature-today/
February 5 Interview and review of Soul Reborn & Soul Awakened
Happy Tails and Tales
http://magluvsya03.wordpress.com/2013/02/05/soul-awakened-blog-tour-w-giveaways/
February 5 Guest Post
Le Vanity Victorienne
http://thevictorianvanity.blogspot.com/
February 7 Guest blog
Frankie Blooding’s Bookshelf
http://frankieblooding.wordpress.com/
the Top 5…Songs Played While Writing, or Book Bloopers, or Memorable Moments, etc.
February 8 Review of Soul Reborn & Soul Awakened
Bookishly Devoted
http://www.bookishlydevoted.blogspot.com/
February 9 Guest blog
http://www.booksandtales.blogspot.co.uk/
February 11 Interview and review of Soul Reborn & Soul Awakened
http://www.JodiePierce author.blogspot.com
HOPE YOU WILL JOIN THE PARTY!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
www.jean-murray.com
Filed under: Events, Key to the Cursed, Uncategorized Tagged: Author Jean Murray, bewitching blog tour, book trailer, giveaway, key to the cursed, kindle fire HD, release party, soul awakened, soul reborn
January 31, 2013
Winners Announced: 3 Goddesses ~ 3 Books ~ 1 BIG Giveaway
THANK YOU TO ALL WHO PARTICIPATED
With sincere thanks from your gracious hosts,
Jean Murray, Lynn Rush and Sasha Summers!
~ The grand prize KINDLE PAPERWHITE ~
Winner ~ ANTHONY ACKERLY (thewritepursuit)
Contact Jean Murray by email (murray(dot)jeanm(at)gmail(dot)com within 72 hours to claim your prize
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Gods & Hero Winners ~ Encyclopedia Mythologica
Kellyatx
Shadow
Contact Jean Murray by email (murray(dot)jeanm(at)gmail(dot)com within 72 hours to claim your prize
**********
Gods & Hero Winners ~ Egyptian Themed Tarot Cards
Crystal Woodmancy
Contact Jean Murray by email (murray(dot)jeanm(at)gmail(dot)com within 72 hours to claim your prize
***********
Gods & Hero Winners ~ Autographed Copy of Soul Reborn + Wicked Romance Tote
Shannon Bereza
Contact Jean Murray by email (murray(dot)jeanm(at)gmail(dot)com within 72 hours to claim your prize
FOR A RECAP VISIT THE POSTS BELOW
JEAN:
Sasha:
http://sashasummers.com/?p=2327
http://sashasummers.com/?p=2333
http://sashasummers.com/?p=2336
http://sashasummers.com/?p=2341
http://sashasummers.com/?p=2344
Lynn
http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/release-party-is-live/
http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/kindle-paperwhite/
http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/more-release-party-fun/
http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/whats-new-adult/
http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/releaseparty-wrap-up/
Filed under: Events, Giveaway, Uncategorized Tagged: book release party, for the love of hades, giveaway, Jean Murray, key to the cursed, lynn rush, Sasha Summers, soul awakened, tainted, three goddesses
January 29, 2013
Author Open MIC ~ Welcomes Lara Nance + Steampunk Novel and Necklace Giveaway
How many of you have read a Steampunk Romance? Am I the only Steampunk virgin out there?
The answer may be yes. It’s not for the lack of trying (every girl’s excuse). I actually have several coming up on my TBR, which makes me even more excited to introduce our next Author Open MIC guest: Lara Nance. Lara is an amazingly talented lady. She has an array of books that range from Steampunk to paranormal romance and paranormal mystery. Her novel, Memories of Murder, won NEC’s Bean Pot Award for Best Paranormal romance in 2012, received a 4.5 star review from Romantic Times, and was awarded Merit for Best Book From a Virginia Writer in 2012 from the Holt Medallion Contest of VRW. Her love of Steampunk has grown into several novels, specifically Airship Adventure Chronicles- Revenge of the Mad Scientist, which we are going to talk about today. So, let me introduce Lara….
THE AUTHOR
Lara Nance grew up and lived in many cities throughout the South. She loves to write in a variety of genres within the scope of women’s fiction. But the basis of all her stories is a tale that will entertain and intrigue.
If you want to escape and lose yourself in a novel, you’ve come to the right place. Choose your genre and settle in to be entertained. From thrilling mysteries and steampunk tales, to paranormal romance and adventure, Lara’s willing to explore a variety of compelling stories full of danger and suspense, with a touch of romance.
Having been on the fencing team in college and now living on a sailboat convinces her that she was a pirate in another life, or possibly kin to Errol Flynn… However, due to the unfortunate demise of the romantic pirates of the past, she lives out her fantasies, thrills and adventures in her stories.
Currently docked in Norfolk, Virginia (until the wind changes) Lara enjoys living on her sailboat and spends time reading, of course writing, indulging a variety of artistic endeavors, cooking and sailing with her husband, Joe and their Yorkie, Rio.
THE INTERVIEW
You have an amazing collection of books – paranormal romance, paranormal mystery and now Steampunk adventures. What motivated you to break from your paranormal roots to write Steampunk?
There’s still an element of fantasy to both genres. Plus the Victorian backdrop lends an element of romance I love. I also love the inventiveness of the steampunk movement, the great costumes and wild weapons. I’ve been a Jules Verne fan since I was little, so steampunk is a wonderful extension of that.
What do you find most fascinating about the Steampunk genre?
The creativity of this community is amazing. There are so many directions one can take. Either using an altered Victorian history to incorporate the steampunk elements, or as I did, create an alternate Victorian Universe with new countries, but still keeping the Victorian theme.
For those of us who have never read a Steampunk based novel, tell us what we can expect to see?
For me, I see the novels taking a couple paths, one is more technical and focuses on the gadgets and science fiction. The other, is more romantic and uses the steampunk elements within an adventure or mystery. The latter is what I chose for my novels. It’s a rollicking adventure with rogue heroes and spunky heroines. You’ll see visions of the steampunk clothing, airships, clockwork robots and air-pirates.
Does your Steampunk Airship Adventure Chronicles have elements of romance? Or another theme buried within plot lines that you wish readers to capture?
Apart from the main theme of adventure there is an underlying romance that builds over the course of the three books. Arabella was left at the altar by a man eight years before this novel takes place. She’s forced to accept his help in this adventure as his airship is the only one for hire when she needs to go after her kidnapped father. Against the backdrop of their dangerous mission, she and Rett learn their attraction is still alive and now that they’re older, the spark can be rekindled.
Are the books individual reads or are they linked by a common plotline?
The books are all linked and one picks up where the previous one left off. The whole trilogy is a story of How Belle and friends fight to save the world and she and Rett come to terms with their love.
Tell us about your characters.
I envision Belle as Nicole Kidman. She’s tall, with auburn hair and a British accent. Nothing stops her when she’s determined, and she can be a bit stubborn, too. But her compassion wins everyone over and she had very loyal friends and servants.
Rett is totally like Indiana Jones. A competent adventurer with a streak of vulnerability that endears him to us.
Now for some broader questions…. What is the single, most important element in your writing or life as an author?
As far as my writing, my most important element is to create entertaining women’s fiction that will take the reader away and give them a fun reading experience. As an author, I want to continue to grow and perfect my craft so I offer the best books to my readers I possibly can.
What is the most difficult hurdle you have encountered (personal or professional)? What advice would you give other authors who face the same challenges?
Getting my first book published was the biggest hurdle. It took years of learning and honing my craft as well as studying the publishing business. The advice I have is to keep going. There is so much to learn, it can’t happen overnight. Keep writing because every book you write will be better than the last. Eagerly seeking and accepting critiques of your work is the best way to learn.
What do you are you cooking up next? What can readers expect?
I’m just finishing the third book of the steampunk trilogy. Then I’ll be starting on the second book in my DraculaVille series. So, back to paranormal.
Where can readers find you and your books. (links, purchase and social media)
I’m at www.laranance.com and love to get e-mail from readers.
My books are on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Kobo. This particular book is only available in electronic format on Amazon, but the print copy is available on the other sites.
Open MIC fav five:
Favorite hero or heroine – Indiana Jones
Favorite author – Anne McCaffrey
Favorite music to write by – Lady Gaga
Favorite inspiration – Stephen King’s – On Writing.
Most memorable writing moment – When my first book was accepted by a publisher.
BOOK INFO
Revenge of the Mad Scientist – Book one – Airship Adventure Chronicles
When Lady Arabella Trunkett’s father, the High Lord Minister of Urbannia is kidnapped, all clues point to the mysterious country of Gandiss and the world is thrown into political upheaval.
Arabella is convinced the more sinister nation of Carabarras is to blame, urged on by a mad scientist seeking revenge. So, she sets out on a perilous airship journey across a variety of exotic locales to save him, and halt the potential world war.
But airship pirates, secret assassins and slave traders aren’t her only trials. The fickle hand of fate has made the captain of the only airship available for charter, the man who left her at the altar. For eight years she’s wished him dead. Now he’s her only hope.
CHAPTER EXCERPT
CLICK: READ AN EXCERPT FROM THE REVENGE OF THE MAD SCIENTIST
Revenge of the Mad Scientist will be FREE on AMAZON for 2-days only
January 29-30, 2013
A free copy of Revenge of the Mad Scientist and a unique steampunk necklace.
To ENTER Necklace Giveaway: Leave a comment or question for Lara Nance.
Filed under: Author Open Mic, Giveaway, Guest Author Tagged: author open mic, lara nance, new release, romance, steampunk, steampunk romance, the revenge of the mad scientist, wicked romance
January 28, 2013
Last Chance- ends Jan 29, 3013: 3 Goddesses ~ 3 Books ~ 1 BIG Giveaway
ENDS JANUARY 29, 2013
Jean Murray (HERE at Wicked Romance), Lynn Rush and Sasha Summers are celebrating their new releases with an all day party!
***The grand prize is a KINDLE PAPERWHITE***
There will be new adventures and tasks to earn entries toward the grand prize.
Watch out for little prizes along the way, too. These three Goddesses are full of surprises.
**********
DATE: Tuesday January 22-29, 2013
WHERE: Our websites! (SEE LINKS BELOW)
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TO BE INCLUDED IN THE GIVEAWAY CLICK ON THE LINKS BELOW
7am Lynn http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/release-party-is-live/
8am Sasha http://sashasummers.com/?p=2327
10am Lynn http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/kindle-paperwhite/
11am Sasha http://sashasummers.com/?p=2333
1pm Lynn: http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/more-release-party-fun/
2pm Sasha: http://sashasummers.com/?p=2336
4pm Lynn: http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/whats-new-adult/
5pm Sasha: http://sashasummers.com/?p=2341
7pm Lynn, Sasha, and Jean: Lynn: http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/releaseparty-wrap-up/ Sasha: http://sashasummers.com/?p=2344
See you there!
Filed under: Events, Giveaway, Uncategorized Tagged: book release party, for the love of hades, giveaway, Jean Murray, key to the cursed, lynn rush, Sasha Summers, soul awakened, tainted, three goddesses
January 23, 2013
Not too late: 3 Goddesses ~ 3 Books ~ 1 BIG Giveaway
ENDS JANUARY 29, 2013
Jean Murray (HERE at Wicked Romance), Lynn Rush and Sasha Summers are celebrating their new releases with an all day party!
***The grand prize is a KINDLE PAPERWHITE***
There will be new adventures and tasks to earn entries toward the grand prize.
Watch out for little prizes along the way, too. These three Goddesses are full of surprises.
**********
DATE: Tuesday January 22-29, 2013
WHERE: Our websites! (SEE LINKS BELOW)
**********
TO BE INCLUDED IN THE GIVEAWAY CLICK ON THE LINKS BELOW
7am Lynn http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/release-party-is-live/
8am Sasha http://sashasummers.com/?p=2327
10am Lynn http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/kindle-paperwhite/
11am Sasha http://sashasummers.com/?p=2333
1pm Lynn: http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/more-release-party-fun/
2pm Sasha: http://sashasummers.com/?p=2336
4pm Lynn: http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/whats-new-adult/
5pm Sasha: http://sashasummers.com/?p=2341
7pm Lynn, Sasha, and Jean: Lynn: http://lynnrush.com/2013/01/22/releaseparty-wrap-up/ Sasha: http://sashasummers.com/?p=2344
See you there!
Filed under: Events, Giveaway, Uncategorized Tagged: book release party, for the love of hades, giveaway, Jean Murray, key to the cursed, lynn rush, Sasha Summers, soul awakened, tainted, three goddesses
January 22, 2013
3 Goddesses ~ 3 Books ~ 1 KindlePaperwhite: Gods & Heroes Part 4 of 4
Tired, yet? Keep up the great work and you will be rewarded. If you missed the previous posts (Part 1, 2, 3) it’s not too late. Click on the links. (ALL giveaways on these posts are US/Canada. For international entries – where Amazon available and not to exceed USD).
9am : Gods & Heroes/Part 1 – Meet Bakari of Soul Awakened ~ Giveaway – Encyclopedia Mythologica (These books are awesome – pop-up book on steroids. I love them so much I hate to give them away. I only have two. Value $30)
12pm: – Gods & Heroes/Part 2 – Meet Kendra of Soul Awakened ~ Giveaway – Ancient Egyptian Themed Tarot Cards (This is my last deck. Value $12)
3pm: Gods & Heroes/Part 3 - Meet Bomani of Soul Awakened ~ Giveaway – Encyclopedia Mythologica
6pm: Gods & Heroes Finale ~ Giveaway – Autographed copy of Soul Reborn and Wicked Romance Canvas Tote Bag
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Gods & Heroes/Part 4 – Soul Awakened Finale
All good series have a beginning ~ Soul Reborn – Soul Awakened – Soul Unbound – Soul Unleashed
THE HUMAN REALM, HIS BATTLEFIELD.
Asar, the Egyptian God of the Underworld, has been tortured and left soulless by a malevolent goddess, relegating him to consume the very thing he was commissioned to protect. Human souls. Now an empty shell of hatred, Asar vows to kill the goddess and anyone involved in her release, but fate crosses his path with a beautiful blonde huntress who has a soul too sweet to ignore.
DEADLY SECRETS BETTER LEFT UNEARTHED.
Lilly, fearless commander of the Nehebkau huntresses, is the only thing standing in the way of the goddess’ undead army unleashing hell on earth. But Lilly has a secret–one she is willing to sell her soul to keep. If the Underworld god discovers her role in the dig that released the goddess, she will lose everything, including his heart.
LOVE FOR BLOOD OR HONOR
Kendra, an Egyptologist and demi-god in waiting, is the key to unlocking Bakari, the Egyptian God of Death, from his cursed slumber. Desperate to free him, she inadvertently binds herself to the god with a spell that only death will undo. To save Bakari from himself, she may have to sacrifice her innocence, and possibly her soul, before he becomes his family’s worst enemy.
HAUNTED BY SINS OF THE PAST
Bakari awakens to a world at war and a beautiful woman who has tethered his soul to hers. In the wake of his self-destruction Kendra is his only hope of salvation, but another has vowed to keep Bakari from the one thing he craves most– his Parvana. His butterfly.
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Giveaway ~ To enter to win Autographed Copy of Soul Reborn + WR Tote
+ 25 extra entries for Kindle Paperwhite
1. Subscribe to Wicked Romance (link top right sidebar) – 10 entries
2. Like Author Jean Murray’s Facebook Page – 10 entries
3. Checkout my webpage – 5 entries
3. Leave a comment with your entries (Name/email)
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Remember, you can enter until Tuesday 29th 2013. The grand-prize winner will be announced Thursday January 31st 2013 on all three blogs and other social media avenues. See all the guidelines here: http://lynnrush.com/release-party/
Thanks for celebrating with us today.
Great work. For more prizes and entries.
Sasha Summers: http://sashasummers.com/?page_id=927
Lynn Rush: http://www.lynnrush.com/blog
Filed under: Events, Giveaway, Heroes, Uncategorized Tagged: 3 books, 3 goddesses, for the love of hades, Jean Murray, key to the cursed, kindle paperwhite, lynn rush, Sasha Summers, soul awakened, tainted
3 Goddesses ~ 3 Books ~ 1 KindlePaperwhite: Gods & Heroes Part 3 of 4
Okay, let’s continue our fun and meet Bomani- Part 3. If you missed the first post (Part 1 & 2) it’s not too late. Click on the link. (ALL giveaways on these posts are US/Canada. For international entries – where Amazon available and not to exceed USD).
9am : Gods & Heroes/Part 1 – Meet Bakari of Soul Awakened ~ Giveaway – Encyclopedia Mythologica (These books are awesome – pop-up book on steroids. I love them so much I hate to give them away. I only have two. Value $30)
12pm: – Gods & Heroes/Part 2 – Meet Kendra of Soul Awakened ~ Giveaway – Ancient Egyptian Themed Tarot Cards (This is my last deck. Value $12)
3pm: Gods & Heroes/Part 3 - Meet Bomani of Soul Awakened ~ Giveaway – Encyclopedia Mythologica
6pm: Gods & Heroes Finale ~ Giveaway – Autographed copy of Soul Reborn and Wicked Romance Canvas Tote Bag
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Gods & Heroes/Part 3 – Meet Bomani of Soul Awakened
Giveaway – Encyclopedia Mythologica (Value $30)
LOVE FOR BLOOD OR HONOR
Kendra, an Egyptologist and demi-god in waiting, is the key to unlocking Bakari, the Egyptian God of Death, from his cursed slumber. Desperate to free him, she inadvertently binds herself to the god with a spell that only death will undo. To save Bakari from himself, she may have to sacrifice her innocence, and possibly her soul, before he becomes his family’s worst enemy.
HAUNTED BY SINS OF THE PAST
Bakari awakens to a world at war and a beautiful woman who has tethered his soul to hers. In the wake of his self-destruction Kendra is his only hope of salvation, but another has vowed to keep Bakari from the one thing he craves most– his Parvana. His butterfly.
*********************
Bomani
Chapter 3 Excerpt
Jealousy filled Bomani’s chest. What the hell was that about? Kendra was doing what his Lord commanded.
The reason failed to quell his growing irritation the longer Kendra touched Bakari’s sarcophagus. Maybe it was the sense that something so pure should not touch an object so filthy. Although beautiful to the eye, the etchings were a testament to the atrocity. Anything that odjit of a goddess touched was cursed and fetid.
Relief swept over him when Kendra asked to see the archives. The more time she spent away from that dark cell the better. Plus, he was in no rush to see Bakari again. They had never been close and their last meeting ended in a physical fight. Guilt weighted his heart. His Lord’s happiness was hinged on his son’s revival—the only fact that kept him from wishing for Kendra to fail.
She exited the cell and stuck close to his hip. The long spirals of her hair bobbed with each of her steps. The small female had gotten under his skin in the short time he had known her and her sisters, Lilly and Kit. During a rescue mission, he would never forget the terror in Kendra’s eyes when the Nehebkau’s traitor held a knife to her slender throat. She looked so small and vulnerable. In a protective rage he had snapped the huntress’ arm in half.
No one would harm any of the offspring of the Mother Goddess. Ever so long, as he had living energy in his black soul. But, that was simply his nature, he rationalized. Nothing more.
The scent of flowers tickling his nose drew his gaze down. Yeah, right. Who was he kidding? He had a crush on the small waif of a woman. A child by his age standards, he was five thousand her senior at the meager human age of twenty-two. Isis, she was so off limits it was not even funny. Not to mention, she was the daughter of the Mother Goddess, the mother of all the gods and ruler of the Creation Pantheon. Him? A warrior of the Underworld. Not even a god for all intents and purposes.
He ran a hand over his scalp. Those facts did not mitigate the warmth against his normally numb skin. Her pale, toothpick-like arm wrapped snuggly against his, as he escorted her out of the dungeon. He guessed the reason he enjoyed her company so much was the fact that when she stared at him with her big brown eyes, there was no fear in them, but warmth that heated his insides. His life had little warmth or gentleness.
Bomani walked in an unnatural gate to ensure he was not dragging her by the arm. He never wanted her uncomfortable. As they approached the assent of the steps leading out of the prison, he considered offering to carry her, but she was not an invalid.
Surprisingly, she swiftly moved up the steps with the grace of a gazelle and only a small incremental increase in her breathing and heart rate. A tiny fit body. He quickly shut off his next visions of what lay hidden beneath her oversized clothing, although not quick enough. Thankfully, mastery of his cravings staved off any physical arousal.
Unexpectedly, Kendra drew closer to him. Her small perky breast brushed innocently against his arm. He swallowed the hiss that threatened to escape his throat. She warmed more than his skin this time.
He needed to break this fixation. Hell, she had been through enough. She had lost her father and her world had been turned upside down. Last thing she needed was more complications, like an infatuated warrior who knew better. Embarrassed, an insufficient word to describe how he would feel. She would think him a heathen. Where was his honor now? He cursed silently.
Bomani pulled to a stop ten steps from freedom. He looked at her from the side afraid if he turned he might accidentally brush up against her. He would not be able to control what came next. “Do you think you can make it the rest of the way? I will soon follow to show you the library.”
“Sure. Meet at my room?”
Bomani nodded and released her arm. Maybe separating himself would break the spell she cast on him.
She bounced up the rest of the steps and out into the light. She smiled. “Thank you, you know, for keeping me safe.”
Gods, he was going to rot in Duat. “Anytime.” He bowed.
When she turned to leave, he extinguished the torches and leaned against the stone wall. The weight of his fatigue crashed upon his shoulders. Her departure took the last of his strength with her.
Kendra would have to wait a little longer, he realized. He had to honor his fallen warriors. Menthu’s army had been more effective than he wanted to admit. Despite the Underworld legion’s victory at the Battle of Thebes, Bomani had lost numerous brothers in the fight.
He leaned his head against the cold wall, pained at the thought of so many souls destroyed. Even though new warriors would be born from the souls returned to the Underworld waters, the loss of even one brother was a burden he hated to carry.
He hefted his sore body up the steps and slammed the heavy iron door behind him. He stalked the hallway toward Asar’s office, his mood now sullen.
The unmarred skin between the scarifications tingled with heat the minute he rounded the corner. Bright flowing light pierced the dim palace hall. His gaze targeted the Protector god being escorted by a wall of guardians.
A Creation god in Aaru. What nerve.
The burning of his skin reminded him of the differences between the Pantheons. One of death. One of life. Balanced, but unable to mix. The Carrigan sisters seemed to be the only exception to that rule. He experienced no pain when he was around Kendra, despite her Creation lineage.
“Bast,” he hissed under his breath. Their Creation cousins had found it beneath them to assist in the battle against Menthu, which only reinforced his distaste of them.
The only way she was here was by Asar’s invitation. No one entered Aaru, the Paradise Isle of the Underworld, without the expressed consent of its Lord. Considering the circumstances he was shocked she was here. Bast had attempted to kidnap Kendra’s sister and Asar’s new wife, Lilly. Bast would have succeeded if Bomani had not shown up at the exact moment.
He frowned, regretting he had sent Kendra on alone. Bast could very easily snatch her away, even with the warriors present. With fists clenched Bomani forged toward the goddess, burning skin or not.
“Well, well. Look who is here,” he spat. Her smile flared his fury.
“Bomani. How nice it is to see you again,” she purred. Her gaze shifted down his torso and stopped. She arched her eyebrows. “Yes, very nice to see you again.” Her green eyes flicked to meet his, an unholy glow of arousal about them. “What have you been up too?” Her gaze shifted down to his bulging pants.
He ground his teeth. The goddess may be beautiful by all standards with her flowing brown hair and piercing green eyes, but like hell would he even entertain the idea of bedding her. It would not be the first time in his existence that a Creation goddess looked for a forbidden romp in the sack. He was not that desperate for a release. “Well in case you missed it, we are at war. Huge battle at Thebes. Oh, that is right, you missed it,” he growled.
She narrowed her eyes. “Do you address your master in such a disrespectful manner?”
Master? He stepped forward pushing a blast of cold energy into her. Despite her skin rising up in fine goose bumps, she stared defiantly back. Protector gods were some of the most powerful of their kind. Regardless, he wanted it abundantly clear, he did not give a corpse’s ass who she was.
Based on the smile and delight in her eyes, she had gotten the reaction she wanted. He had been played, which only stoked his already burning anger. “You are in my world, Goddess. Your status has no weight here.”
“Such tension in your voice, Commander. Perhaps, you need some relief from your…current condition.”
The numb touch of fingers grazed his arm. He barely restrained himself from twisting her wrist a good one. He leaned in, his lips a fraction from her ear. “Let us be clear about this. Never. Ever. Going to happen.”
Bast pursed her lips together in an exaggerated pout. “Do not be too sure about that. Conditions can change.” She smiled again. “But, your words are fitting.” She leaned into his ear with her hands pressed to his chest. Her hot breath stung his skin and her lips grazed the edge of his ear. “Because she was not made for you.”
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Giveaway ~ To enter to win Encyclopedia Mythologica + 25 extra entries for Kindle Paperwhite
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