Stephanie Nelson's Blog, page 5

Gwen Sparks Giveaway!

I am constantly amazed at the support I've gotten with my books. When I started writing a little over five years ago, I never imagined I would even share my stories with anyone. Now, not only have I taken the publishing step, but I've been lucky enough to have readers who have enjoyed my stories. As a writer, there is no greater compliment than hearing someone liked something you wrote. If you guys could see my face when you leave those comments, you'd probably think I was on happy pills. I get uber cheesy.  Coveted reached #5 in the United States and #1 in France! And it's all because of you guys! I could never thank you guys enough for sticking by my side, but I can offer a pretty cool giveaway. 


TWO people will be chosen as winners (picked randomly through rafflecopter). Each person will win a signed paperback copy of every single one of my books: Craved, Deceived, Coveted, Taming the Wolf, Cupid Painted Blind and Once Upon a Midnight Dreary!! Plus swag: postcards, bookmarks, mouspads, pens. a Rafflecopter giveaway

In the works....

Coveted will be releasing in 2 days! Fingers-crossed. I've had a bit of a set back due to the person who normally formats my books being too busy to get to mine in time. So I've found someone else and hopefully they'll be able to pull off the task in time. 


In October I mentioned releasing a novella series based on the boys of the Everwood pack from my Anna Avery novels. I still plan to write these, but the first one, Wolfsbane & Moonlight will not be out in February as I advertised. Instead, I'm writing a prequel to Taming the Wolf. In Taming the Wolf you guys read about Anna's attack and then its jumps to 3 months later. Becoming the Wolf will be about those 3 months you guys didn't get to read about.

This will be available in February! 
*This will not be a full length book I'm also in the progress of writing Embracing the Wolf , Anna's second book. I plan to release by March/April Cover Reveal! 

Some people have asked if Coveted will be the last Gwen book. It will not. Hexed will be the 4th book. You get a sneak peek of what it will be about in Coveted's epilogue. I plan to release Hexed by July!

FREEpallooza

Kick off your holiday shopping with FREE books! This Cyber Monday, some of your favorite indie authors are offering FREE ebooks! Don't miss this chance to feed your new ereaders--or those you're giving as gifts!--with the best reading around.   PLUS, enter for a chance to win a GRAND PRIZE of signed paperbacks and swag from these talented authors!     Spread the news and download ALL the books below! Happy reading! GRAND PRIZE!Signed paperback of GIVE ME, Pocket Mirror and Paperback of CUPID PAINTED BLIND, Paperback of UNNATURAL DISASTER, Signed Paperback of SPELL CHECKED, Signed Copy of FINDING ALICE, BEND-BITTEN-SHIFT Swag, Bracelet,UNBOUND ebook, Signed paperback of RESTLESS, Bookmark from THE BOOK SWAG SHOPContest open 11/25-12/10/12 US/Canadian Residents Only, Must be 18 or over to enter a Rafflecopter giveaway  

Once Upon a Midnight Dreary Hop

Welcome to the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary Giveaway Hop hosted by Literary Addicts from October 17 - 31. Each Blog participating is hosting a book themed prize. There is a Grand Prize Pack HERE In celebration of our newest anthology release, Once Upon a Midnight Dreary, we're featuring an array of exciting giveaways! Don't forget to enter for the grand prize!(The link to enter is above)


As for my giveaway, you have a chance to win a signed paperback copy of Once Upon a Midnight Dreary and a Kindle sleeve, designed by yours truly! (See pictures below) a Rafflecopter giveaway Check out the other participating blogs!

Coveted - Chapter 2

Hi, guys. Here is chapter two of Coveted as promised. If you haven't read chapter one, you can find it HERE.
I finally have an offical release date. Yay! November 16th. It's a little later than I would have liked but 2 months earlier had I used the original editor. ENJOY! Chapter Two On the drive back from Aiden’s house I thought about our relationship. Man, it sucked we found ourselves in the awkward place we now were. The temptation to forgive him was overwhelming. Everything within me still yearned for him, needed him. So why the hell wasn’t I turning my car around and heading back to his place for an epic make up session? This is where the stubbornness would come into play. If I swept Aiden’s betrayal under the rug, then it was possible he’d deceive me again. He needed to know that I wouldn’t tolerate his lies, whether Brew was to blame or not. I learned people will treat me the way I allow them to. I had enough to worry about without wondering whether or not the man I loved was keeping secrets. So, because I’m hard headed, we both had to suffer. And let’s not forget he killed a witch. Murder is a pretty serious offense in my book.

My heart was bruised, but I refused to cower under the pain. After a couple of pity parties I pulled on my big girl panties and decided to put on a brave face. It didn’t matter how strong the ache inside my chest was. I’d never show that pain to the world, especially when my life could be in danger.

Pulling into the small parking lot in front of my apartment building, I shut off my jeep and just sat. The apartment complex was one big rectangular building with windows running in twin rows horizontally. A rusted metal staircase led to the second floor where my place was. It was rather unspectacular in appearance. At twenty-six, this was not where I’d seen my life ending up. With Fiona in Moon, expanding her magic and love life, I never felt like more of a loser.

Big girl panties! No more pity parties, Gwen.

Tucking my depression back into the furthest corners of my mind, I exited my car. As I headed up the small concrete path, careful not to slip on the thin sheet of ice covering it, I sensed movement to my right. As I turned my head, a voice from my left called, scaring the bejeezus out of me and down I went. With a hard thump I landed on my behind, wincing as a string of colorful curses flitted through my tight lips. Wearing high-heeled boots in winter was tempting fate, especially since I was born with two left feet. I leaned forward so that I was on my hands and knees, carefully pulling my feet up under my body to stand. A deep masculine laugh taunted my ears and another string of colorful language was my response.

“A gentleman would help me up.”

“If one happens to come along, I’ll be sure to grab him,” Dorian responded.

I managed to stand, my legs wobbly like that time Bambi braved the frozen lake. If I recalled correctly, his friends laughed at his clumsiness too. My eyes instantly found Dorian and his amused grin. Jerk. He was leaning against the building, his arms crossed. Deciding not to chance the icy path again, I stepped onto the frost-covered grass. I’d definitely have a bruised bum come morning.

Ignoring Dorian, I made my way up the rickety stairwell. I only made it halfway before he stopped me.

“Did you forget about training?”

“No.” I continued up the stairs.

“Gwen, we had a deal,” Dorian reminded me. “I’m staying with you to teach you how to be a spirit walker. If you don’t take advantage of my teachings then you’re only hurting yourself.”

I paused, my hand gripping the cold steel of the railing. Looking over my shoulder I eyed Dorian at the bottom. Sometimes he could be a smartass, and other times he sounded like a teacher scolding a child. Since I’ve been taking care of myself since I was sixteen, it annoyed me to be treated as such. Still, I knew I needed to embrace my abilities and that meant dealing with the self-righteous angel of Death.

“Let me help sway your indecision.” Dorian climbed up the first few steps. “I’m teaching you hand to hand combat. I’ll be your punching bag tonight.”

Was it wrong that excitement was my first response? It’s not like I’m an aggressive woman but I could see the benefits of blowing off some pent up stress by taking my frustrations out on Dorian. As I rolled the idea around in my head, another thought popped into my head.

“Why do I need to learn hand to hand combat? As far I know ghosts can’t physically hurt me.”

“Not all of your enemies will always be in spirit form.”

Like I could forget. It seemed my days and nights slowed to a crawl as I anticipated Holly’s strike. After a week of nothing happening I was starting to believe I was more paranoid than anything.

“Yeah, but I can use my magic to defend myself.” I shrugged. Dorian looked away, his hand going up to rub the back of his neck. He looked down at his booted feet, avoiding my waiting stare for as long as he could. He was hiding something. It couldn’t have been more obvious.

“What?” I prompted. “What is it now?”

Dorian looked up, the corners of his mouth turned down as he hesitated to speak. I arched my eyebrows at him in a ‘come-on-already’ stare.

Dorian took a ragged breath, which meant I wouldn’t like what he was about to tell me. “You’re embracing the spirit walker side,” he began, and I waited for him to explain. “There are rules, Gwen. You can’t be both things—a regular witch and spirit walker. Once you pick a side, the other fades.”

“What?” I shrieked. Since I had been so busy with training with Dorian, I hadn’t used my other, normal witchy powers. Granted, I didn’t use them a lot anyway. I didn’t like to depend on magic for everything, but it came in handy if I needed to conjure an item in a snap or zap a threat.

“And you’re just now telling me this?”

“I knew what your reaction would be,” Dorian said. “And becoming a spirit walker is more important than being able to create clothes and do your makeup.”

My mouth dropped open in disbelief. “Why don’t you tell me what you really think of me?” My tone dripped with angry sarcasm. “Is that what you see when you look at me? A superficial woman more worried about stocking her closet than her responsibility?”

The funny thing was, I’d always said those exact words about Fiona. I didn’t mean it to be hurtful though, and now it seemed I was just like her, at least in Dorian’s eyes. It shouldn’t have bothered me as much as it did. I knew who I was and screw what his impression of me was. Yet, it did bother me.

“I didn’t mean it like that.” Dorian took a couple steps up. The strong features of his face softened as he looked at me. “I’m just saying that you may lose your magic, but you’re gaining power. Do you have any idea how many witches would love to be a spirit walker? Not everyone is cut out for it.”

I released my anger. Since returning from Flora I’d been on edge and moody, a ball of frazzled nerves. Thinking about what he said, the annoyance ebbed away. I’d embraced my spirit walker self and if that meant losing my physical magic, then so be it. The other option would be to refuse it and go insane from it. And what kind of option was that? So I wouldn’t be able to conjure items, glamour my appearance or cast spells. There were worst things.

“It just caught me off guard,” I admitted. It was yet another piece of my former self I was losing. But I tried seeing it as evolving for the better instead of losing anything. I was determined to look on the bright side even if my life was dark and scary. I couldn’t allow things that were out of my control shake me.”

“So you ready to kick my ass?” Dorian grinned causing me to smile.

“I thought you’d never ask.”

                                                                                        *  *  *

“How did the talk with Mr. Wonderful go?” Dorian was driving my Jeep down Main Street. I eyed the strip of businesses lining the street, their artsy signs glowing above their doors. As we passed my store, Broomsticks, a wave of guilt gnawed at me. I hadn’t worked very much since returning home. There always seemed to be something else more pressing to do, like training for the impending attack I wasn’t sure would ever come.

“Don’t,” I bit out, shooting Dorian a warning glare. It wasn't a secret that he didn’t like Aiden and vice versa. As far as I knew, Dorian had never been in a relationship so I didn't expect him to understand what I was going through. Whenever he brought up my ex, I made a point to either warn him away from the topic or change it altogether. I wasn't sure if that was because I didn't want him poking the fresh wound, or if I was embarrassed by being deceived so easily. Sometimes I wondered if I looked up the word ‘fool’ in the dictionary if I would find my picture. I was too afraid to check with Mr. Webster though.

“That bad, huh?” True to his character, Dorian didn't drop it. Heaven forbid a woman (me) gave into one man (Aiden) and not him. It wouldn't surprise me if Dorian had never been rejected in his life. I knew what irked him about Aiden was the fact that when we were in Moon, I wouldn't swoon under his charms and betray my love for Aiden. I mentally snorted at myself. A lot of good my loyalty had done me in the end.

“We had a civilized conversation and that is all I’m going to say about it,” I told him. When he didn't respond I looked over at him. He was shaking his head back and forth, a bemused look on his face.

“What?” I asked, annoyed with his unspoken words. Dorian shifted, realizing I was watching him. He glanced at me before looking back at the road.

He shrugged. “He’s a fool. If you were mine I wouldn't give you up so easily.” Another glance my way. “I should send him a thank-you card though; had he fought for you, then I wouldn't get my shot to prove to you what you’ve been missing out on.”

His comment half offended, half excited me. “It wouldn't matter how hard he fought; he knows I’m resolute in my decision to take time away from him.”

Dorian snorted. “He either doesn’t know how to claim what he wants or he doesn’t care enough to get it.” He slid me a sidelong glance. “I couldn’t watch you walk away.” His eyebrows dipped together and his mouth quirked up on the side. The confusion on his face belied the confidence of his words.

“Even you will eventually tire of being rejected and move on. You don’t strike me as the kind of man who exerts energy on something with no reward.” I turned my head, looking out the window with a small smile on my lips. Screwing with Dorian was the perfect distraction for my abused brain.

“There will be a reward.” Dorian’s voice was low and smooth—promising. A small tingle prickled along my skin. He pulled alongside the road, turning the key to shut the car off and getting out. I followed him, slamming the door behind me a little too hard. I stared ahead unenthused at the open field as Dorian started making his way across it. When he’d reached fifty feet or so, he motioned for me to join him. Stomping through the tall grass, I made my way over to him. I wasn’t sure how long it’d be before the magic left, but if learning to throw a punch could save my life then I’d grin and bear the bad news I’d just gotten.

 “This doesn’t seem like it’s in your job description,” I told him.

“Spirit walkers derive from me,” Dorian said. “Since the numbers are dwindling, and there aren’t enough to take on the task of training, it’s in my hands.” He shrugged out of his leather jacket, setting it off to the side. A tiny part within me was excited to spar with Death. I’d been fighting for my life for the past few months, it was nice to have a tangible thing to take my frustrations out on.

“Okay, feet shoulder width apart,” Dorian stepped closer, reaching his leg between mine and nudging my legs wider. He reached down and clasped my wrist in his hands, bending my arms up in front of my face. I squeezed my fingers into a tight fist, a smile playing on my lips, mimicking the one on Dorian’s face. He was wearing a grey thermal shirt, snug enough to see the definition of his strong arms and sculpted chest. His warm hands lingered on mine a little too long before he took a step back.

“I want you to punch my hands, alternating with your right and left.” He held his hands out in front of me, and all of a sudden I felt silly. When I hesitated, Dorian lifted an eyebrow and said, “Come on, witch, give it your best shot.”

No more prodding needed, I struck my right fist out and connected to the meaty flesh of his palm. A loud smack echoed through the night as a stinging sensation crawled its way through my fingers.

“Again,” Dorian ordered.

I struck, this time with my left fist.

“Again.”

Thwack. I punched with my right and then my left over and over, gaining speed and pain as my fist made contact with Dorian’s hand.  After ten minutes, or it could have been an hour, Dorian caught my fist. My breathing was labored and a thin sheen of sweat blanketed my forehead while Dorian looked unfazed by my assault. Jerk.

“Good job. You’re not as fragile as you look, princess,” Dorian chuckled. That comment earned him a kick to the shin since he still had my hand pinned. He cringed but shook it off. A wide smile spread across my lips.

“Ew, she’s got a temper too,” Dorian smiled, releasing my hand and walking a slow circle around me. I pivoted my head to watch him, my body tensing up for his next move. He stopped just behind me, his body pressing against my back. Leaning down, he rested his face against the side of mine so that his lips were poised next to my ear. I bit my lip to restrain my grin from widening. Ever so slowly, Dorian’s arm snaked around my waist, his large hand slipping beneath my unzipped jacket to rest on my stomach. I ignored the tingles that his touch caused, keeping my head in the game. I concentrated on anything but the feel of his hard body behind me and the flexing of his fingers as he bunched my shirt, causing it to rise a little bit.

“Now, what do you do if your attacker comes from behind?” Dorian whispered. Since it was him playing the part of the attacker, the only thought that came to mind was, let him have his way with me. I’m sure that answer would have pleased Dorian, but we were out here tonight to train, not to flirt.

Instinctively my hand began to glow as magic rushed to my fingertips.

“Ah ah ah,” Dorian tsked. “No magic.”

Ignoring him, I reached my arm up and zapped his hand. When Dorian released me I turned around quick and sent my arm flying through the air and toward his face. I wasn’t quick enough though; he caught my fist midair.

“Nice try, cupcake, but when your magic fails that won’t work. Let’s try again, this time no cheating.”

“There’s no cheating in a fight,” I told him. “It’s play dirty or die.”

The side of Dorian’s mouth lifted up into a smirk. “You may just survive Holly’s wrath after all.”

I frowned. Had he thought I wouldn’t? If Death wasn’t on my side then I was in some serious trouble. I never asked Dorian when I would die, though I knew he knew. The information was tempting but too scary to know.

In position behind me again, Dorian asked, “What do you do?”

I remembered the countless movies I’d watched where women took self-defense classes. Though I couldn’t remember all the steps, I knew one. Raising my leg up, knee bent, I thrust it down as hard as I could and stomped on Dorian’s instep. He released me but as I took a step away he reached out and grabbed my arm. Swinging around I—and I’m not proud of this— swatted at his hand.

“Well that’s not going to hurt anyone,” Dorian teased.

Deciding my legs could do more damage than my fist; I raised my leg again and kicked out toward his chest. Releasing my hand, he quickly blocked the blow of my spiked boot. He tugged upwards, throwing me off balance. I landed with a hard thump on my butt, Dorian standing over me with a satisfied smile on his lips.

“You’re adorable when you pout.”

“I’m not pouting,” I snapped, getting to my feet. I wanted to smack the smug smile off his lips. Stalking towards him, I threw my right arm out and then my left. Dorian blocked each of my blows but that didn’t stop me. I kept coming at him, determined to land a hit. Dorian stepped back and I pushed forward. Punch, block, punch block. It was a never-ending battle. His soft chuckles taunted me, driving me forward and making my anger skyrocket. Finally I decided to take my own advice—play dirty or die. I directed all of the magic flowing through my body to both of my hands. They lit up like I was holding two balls of bright, blue light. The hesitation in Dorian’s steps was all the confidence booster I needed. Flinging my hands in front of me, I cast my magic out and towards Dorian’s chest. It wouldn’t kill him, but it would sting like a son of a bitch.

The magic smashed into his stomach, throwing him back a couple feet where he landed on his side. I was breathing so hard I had to concentrate on slowing the rapid intake of air. When Dorian didn’t move, didn’t pop up and make some sarcastic comment, fear replaced my exhaustion. I rushed towards him, falling on my knees to inspect his body. His chest still rose and fell with steady breath.

“Dorian?” I shook his shoulder. Fisting his jacket, I turned him over so that I could see his face. His sunglasses had flown off his face and his eyelids were closed. I leaned down to listen to his heartbeat. The calming thump of his heart echoed in his chest. Leaning back up, I shifted my eyes to his face and then to where I’d hit him. With nervous fingers I lifted his shirt up to reveal his taut stomach. There wasn’t a mark, not even a scratch from where my magic had blasted him.

“Dorian, wake up!” I tapped his cheek soft at first and then harder. His eyes flinched, a smile lifting his mouth up. Relief washed through me, and then anger. How dare he pretend to be knocked out. His little stunt had about given me a heart attack.  I leaned back on my heels, ready to stand up and leave him lying in the field, when he reached out for my arm and I lost my balance. I fell on top of him, his arms encircling my waist and holding me prisoner.

“Let go,” I warned.

He snorted, that damned smile still holding strong. “I said no magic.”

“And I said there are no rules when it comes to fighting. Now that we’re caught up on the conversation, let me go.” I struggled against his body, trying to get my hands underneath me to lift myself up, but Dorian’s hold was unyielding. I was in an awkward position, half on top of him and half off. My legs weren’t any good because if I tried to use them to push myself up, my face planted into Dorian’s chest. I kept my face turned away from him; otherwise we’d be nose to nose. I could only imagine what I looked like. Luckily there weren’t any other witnesses to my shame.

“You can wiggle all you want,” Dorian said. “I’m rather enjoying it.” At that I stilled, my body going limp and melting against his. Now that I’d calmed down, I noticed the scent of his cologne—woodsy and clean. I wanted to inhale deep, take it into my lungs and store it in my memory, but that would have defeated the point I was trying to make. I was mad, reeling and frustrated beyond belief. But man, did he smell good, and the feel of his body just beneath mine threatened to penetrate my resolve.

His fingers flexed on the small of my back. Frustrations gone, I was hyperaware of those hands and the path they were beginning to follow. I held my breath as they slid across the hollow of my back. My shirt had come up a little bit with my earlier struggle, and the warmth of Dorian’s fingers on my bare skin was making me forget why I was mad in the first place.

“Don’t you think we should talk about what happened in Massachusetts?” Dorian’s voice was low, smooth and raspy with his inner thoughts. Given what question he’d just asked, I could guess what he was thinking about.

I released the breath I’d been holding, unsure how to respond. We’d come so close to sealing the deal and now it was the constant elephant in the room. Dorian wanted to discuss it while I wanted to ignore it. I wanted to flirt and train with Dorian, not categorize our relationship. Those kinds of conversations always led to rules, intense emotions and heartbreak. Since my heart was already broken, I was a bit protective of it. Not that Dorian was looking to sweep me off my feet. He’d told me multiple times that he didn’t do the whole relationship thing. No, his motto was more of the ‘wham-bam, thank you ma’am’ variety than the hopeless romantic so many women are looking for. I smiled through my nerves, imagining Dorian devoted to one woman and mushy. It just didn’t fit the man.

“Can you please let me go?” I couldn’t have this conversation while in such an awkward position. 

“Since you asked so nicely,” Dorian said with a smile in his voice. His arms fell away from my waist and I crawled backwards off him. Sitting crossed-legged, I picked a piece of grass and studied it. Dorian didn’t push; he lay beside me waiting and staring up at the night sky. A million excuses ran through my mind, none of them helpful. Like earlier tonight, this was yet another conversation that needed to be visited. I just hope it went as well as the one with Aiden.

“Massachusetts was…” I searched for the right word, something efficient enough to get my point across, but not too harsh. Dorian didn’t seem like the type to have his pride tested. And in truth I did like him, maybe a little more than I should. His kiss was imprinted in my mind. No matter how many times I told myself to forget about him, at least until my life was sorted out, my brain wouldn’t let go.

“Was?” Dorian drawled the question out. 

I looked up through the curtain of my black hair that’d fallen over my right eye. Dorian had his arms bent behind his head, his body stretched out along the ground. Though it was the middle of January the cold didn’t seem to affect him. He drove his motorcycle twelve months a year. I, on the other hand, was starting to shiver. We hadn’t gotten a lot of snow, but the temperature of the icy cold ground was soaking through my jeans and straight into my bones.

“It was great, considering,” I said.

“Considering?”

I so did not want to have this conversation. Discussing feelings and heartache to a man who didn’t feel those things was nearly impossible.

“I’d just broken up with Aiden. I know you’re an emotionless tough guy, but I’m not. Ending things with Aiden crushed me.” Dorian grumbled and I frowned. 

“Yet you kissed me, a lot.”

“I know,” I whispered. I knew his next question would be why. Why had I kissed him if I was pining for Aiden? To that I did not have a response, at least not one that would please him. I had two reasons: I was attracted to Dorian, plain and simple. And I thought by giving in to him for one night, it would erase Aiden from my mind. I couldn’t tell him that though. It was too cruel.

“You’re wrong you know,” Dorian said after a while. I looked over at him, studied the way his hair swayed as the winter breeze stirred it. His eyes were closed as if he were completely content to stay in the middle of the field all night. As for me, I was freezing my ass off. When I didn’t respond he peeked through one eye to look at me. Catching my stare, Dorian propped himself up on his elbows. We were locked in each other’s gazes. The gloominess of his eyes was difficult to see in the darkness, but I could tell the clouds were light, calm even.

“What am I wrong about?” I spoke soft, undecided to whether I wanted to hear his answer. Something told me that when it came to Dorian, I was wrong about a lot of things.

“I’m not emotionless,” he replied just as soft. “I care about you. I didn’t know why I placed myself in your path, not at first.” He took a deep breath and then settled back down on the ground. “I told myself it was because of what you are, and it was my job to direct you to do my bidding.”

I snorted and shook my head. The moonlight highlighted the slight upturn of Dorian’s lips. He was such a cocky bastard sometimes. Another tidbit I’d learned while in Moon was that Spirit Walkers used   to be Death’s bounty hunters. They’d track down spirits and escort them to the realm of the dead. Since my kind was quickly becoming extinct, Dorian was forced to work in the field too.

“But,” Dorian continued, interrupting my thoughts. “My interest in you has nothing to do with what you can do for me, at least not job wise.”

I yanked a handful of grass up and threw it at him. He chuckled, brushing the blades off his face.

“I’m trying to have an emotional moment here. Stop ruining it. It may be the last one you ever witness.” When I didn’t respond he continued. “What I’m trying to say is that you’ve affected me in a way I never expected. For such a stubborn, smart mouthed woman you sure do know how to charm men.”

Okay so he had some work to do where sweet-talking was concerned, but his compliment/insult still had the same affect. Emotions I tried to ignore bloomed within me, straining for attention. I tamped them back down but couldn’t contain the smile that slipped onto my lips. 

Crimson Grove Excerpt

Today I have an excerpt from Ashley Robertson's book, Crimson Groves.

Blurb
Abigail Tate was a normal human girl—until the day Bronx the vampire barges into her life and turns her against her will. Held captive while forced to deal with never-ending cravings for blood, Abby prays for a way to escape. Only when an opportunity arises, it’s with the aid of an innocent human named Tyler—except vampires are forbidden to interact with the unbitten. But Abby quickly learns this human has secrets of his own...secrets that can either help her or get her killed. Only Abby soon discovers that she is the one with the biggest secret of all. 

Excerpt
Stone got up and walked over to me. I stopped pacing, and he grabbed my shoulders and turned me around to face him. “You can’t go after him alone,” he murmured.

I couldn’t fight it any longer. Tears trailed down my cheeks. “That’s the only way I’m going. I’m not risking putting anyone else in danger.”

He shook me gently. “What if he overpowers you, if he gains control over your mind? Then no one will be able to stop him. He’ll force you to use your abilities for his victory over anyone who tries to stop him.” He pulled me into a caring embrace, whispering in my ear, “I don’t want that to happen to you. I care too much about you.”

Burrowing my face in his chest, I started crying harder. There was no doubt that he was concerned for me, but I couldn’t think about that right now. Dealing with Tyler would be challenge enough. I couldn’t handle arguing with either of them over something they obviously didn’t understand. Lily was my friend, not theirs. So to ensure my own safety, it was easy for them to feel she was dispensable. But I, on the other hand, felt the polar opposite. I couldn’t just sit back and let Bronx use her. I needed to do something. Lily needed me. If I could release the full potential of my new ability, I could easily take Bronx down.

But could I kill him if it came to it? He would never give up and just let me live without him. He’d made it very clear that I would be his eternal lover. Eternal lover…I cringed at the memory and the realization that his death was my only assurance for my afterlife. If Tyler or Stone were to help me, what would Bronx do to them? The guilt I’d feel if either of them was hurt would destroy me.

Even though the back room was barely lit by the overhead canned lights, suddenly in my mind, brightness shot through it. I hugged Stone tighter, hoping to conceal the glimmer of my thoughts. There could be no reading of my blood tonight. 

My final decision to help Lily was made. And I’d be doing it alone.

 Buying Links - Amazon / Barnes & Noble

Once Upon a Midnight Dreary - Cover Reveal

Once Upon a Midnight Dreary will be releasing very soon, and I'm very excited about it. I've been reading over the stories and I'm loving all of them.  Featured authors include: Lola James, Liz Schulte, C.G. Powell, Olivia Hardin, Mandie Stevens, Cait Lavender and me of course. Below you'll find the covers and blurbs for each story.

We don't have an exact date but the release will be in October! To stay updated  please follow along on our Facebook pages. Carnival of Darkness - Stephanie Nelson Andee Baker met the man of her dreams and then made a complete fool out of herself. She thought she would never see him again until her best friend, Claire, got an invitation for both of them to attend the Carnival of Darkness from the guy Andee couldn’t stop thinking about. 
They jump at the opportunity to go, but even before Andee crosses the entrance, she realizes there's something peculiar about the carnival. The ticket master's red eyes and the waltzing ghost are anything but cheesy special effects. Andee discovers at the Carnival of Darkness not everything is as it seems. 

You can find Stephanie on Facebook HERE The Visitor - Liz Schulte Reverend Black hated storms. Rumbles from the Heavens promised violence and retribution this night, but he could only watch as the blackness descended. The tempest did not come alone. A visitor walked before it—patient and silent. The torrential downpour would wash away the mask, the gales would tear away carefully constructed lies, and the flashes of light would expose the truth—a truth that wouldn’t set him free. 

You can find Liz on Facebook HERE Redeemed - Mandie Stevens Eva never claimed to be a good guardian angel, but she tries. After losing two charges, the Powers That Be have begun to doubt her abilities. To redeem herself, Eva sets out to rescue Elsie, granddaughter of the former king of the Fae. A Demon has kidnapped Elsie to complete an ancient ritual that will allow them to slip through the veil between Earth and Hell on Halloween.

With unlikely friends in tow—a human liaison, a fallen angel, and a powerful yet distractingly charming vampire—Eva is in a race against time.

Save Elsie, save the world—and her job.


You can find Mandie on Facebook HERE Machado - Lola James
A weekend of fun, romance, and ghost stories at abeautiful beachside hotel was the plan. But Mackenzie had a bad feeling about the trip since the moment her husband and friends brought it up. The Machado Inn was a place where legends came to life and the past roamed the hallways. Guests came to stay the night, but few made it out alive. 

You can find Lola on Facebook HERE Miss Stake - C.G. Powell Alligators, snakes, and old boyfriends...Oh my.  

The swamp is a dangerous place, but it’s nothing Veronica can’t handle.  That is until a weekend in the marshes brings to light a whole new set of dangers.  Now that the supernatural cat is out of the bag, Veronica’s life will never be the same. 

You can find C.G. on Facebook HERE Dark Road Winding-Olivia Hardin Johana Hall has her hands full juggling personal life and her public relations career in Washington DC. The last thing she needs is to get called back to Texas because her Grandpa H.M. believes he’s being haunted.  Adult Protective Services wants to put the elderly ex-con in a nursing home, but mysterious happenings at the homestead convince Johana he isn’t as crazy as everyone thinks.   Getting to the bottom of the local legend is the least of her worries when she realizes someone is willing to go to any means to get her grandpa off Sara Jane Road.  Can she figure things out before it’s too late? 

You can find Olivia on Facebook HERE VICIS - Cait Lavender Raised captive by a powerful corporation named Vicis, life inside the facility was all 56 knew until she met Adam. When she's slated to be euthanized, no longer considered a valuable asset for the company, she takes her life into her own hands. With her considerable abilities and Adam’s help, 56 will fight to free them both from Vicis’ clutches and learn to feel something she's always been denied: Love. 

You can find Cait on Facebook HERE

Coveted - Chapter One

- One - I held myself rigid, aloof, as I stood in front of Aiden. I did my best to hide the crumbling, fragile woman just beneath the surface. Could he see her? Was the disguise I wore translucent and fooling no one but me? It’d been a week since I last spoke to or saw Aiden. In that time I’d thrown a pity party or two, but I was getting better—stronger. Or at least I told myself I was. The pain of Aiden’s betrayal stemmed from the deception of not only a lover but also a friend. For two years I’d known the man standing in front of me. We’d teased, argued and confided in one another. It was that friendship that grew into a romance.

Aiden was charismatic with his playful grin. His tousled black hair hung across his forehead, peeking over his thick lashes and curtaining his bright blue eyes. He was a masterpiece, and he’d been mine. But just like any work of art oftentimes tragedy clung to it. Aiden’s particular tragedy was his addiction to witches’ blood, or Brew as the vampires call it. Maybe it was an honest mistake—his addiction. Or one birthed from too much pride. It didn’t matter how old, or young, the vampire was, Brew took no prisoners. Aiden was no different. As soon as the magic-infused blood hit his tongue it owned him.

I’d learned during his stint as a Brew addict, he had not only killed a witch out of bloodlust, but he’d known what my enemy was planning and didn’t tell me. The witch’s death was a result of his addiction. The deceit about Ian Despereaux’s plan was just plain greed. As a spirit walker I’m connected to the realm of the dead. Within the shadowy world, demons lurk. Vampirism is a virus, a demonic virus. The devil, a fallen angel, made his own children—vampires—to feed off God’s—humans. Long story short, since I can pop into the realm of the dead, where not only ghosts live but demons too, I am connected to them. Because of this, Ian thought I could be turned into what is known as a hybrid—half vampire, half witch. I still wasn’t sure if there was any truth to his wild idea, but it was enough to entice Aiden’s curiosity. He’d seen an opportunity for me to share an eternity with him. The ironic thing was that in his hopes of keeping me forever, he’d lost me.

I’d promised to meet him tonight. But the longer I stayed in his presence, the more I realized it was a bad idea. I could have just as easily said what I had to say via email or text. God help me, but those blue eyes and full lips still got to me. I’m not a stupid, careless woman, or at least I try not to be. I knew damned well that just because a lion looks cuddly doesn’t mean it’ll allow you to snuggle up to it. I only wish I’d made the connection before giving my heart to one. Vampires are, for a lack of a better word, predators. The virus that runs through their bloodstream is tainted with centuries of evil. That’s not to say that all vampires are evil; most are not. But it’s like a zebra trying to change its stripes. As much as they want to, their DNA will not allow for change. Somewhere beneath Aiden’s magnificent good looks lay something so much uglier—temptation. That kind of pull will cause a person to do all sorts of crazy things.  For a vampire? It could be disastrous. It’s what separates the “good” vampires from the bad. The difference between the two was only as strong as their willpower.

Now, I know it sounds like I’ve jumped on the bandwagon in the Hating Vampire Campaign, but it’s so much more than that. I don’t hold any ill will toward the vamps; I just know what they’re capable of now. Before my view on the fanged was biased, naïve. No matter how tame they seem, how romantic and easy going, they’re still death incarnate—just like the lion. Where Aiden had lost me from his selfishness I’d lost my heart from my naivety. We both thought more with our hearts than heads.

“Gwen.” Aiden’s voice was soft as he spoke my name. Its melody stuck the chords on my fragile heart. I locked up, shoving the reaction out of my mind. I would not get sidetracked by my emotions.

Aiden stepped closer, his hands reaching toward me. I shuffled backwards, afraid of the effect his touch would have on my resolve. Against my better judgment I still loved him.  I wished that love could be dissolved just as quickly as trust. But love, real love, held on. No matter if I never spoke to Aiden after tonight, he was etched within my heart for an eternity. The important thing was learning to let go and turning it into a memory. Not so easy when the wound was still so fresh.

I met Aiden’s eyes and held his stare. Flashes of our time together, before the chaos and lies, visited my mind. My eyes blurred with unshed tears, and I cursed myself for allowing the weakness to show itself. I told myself I was strong, that I could get through this and that I wouldn’t waste another second crying for what I’d lost. Standing in front of the man who’d inflicted the pain crushed everything I was trying to be. I wasn’t strong, not when he looked at me like that. I couldn’t move past our relationship—move on from him. And the tears pooled until they spilled over and trailed down my cheeks. Only, I had to. I had to clutch onto my decision and move past him, past us. I didn’t trust Aiden, and that might have been the hardest pill to swallow.

“There is nothing I can say,” Aiden began, running a hand through his hair. It was a nervous gesture I’d come to associate with him. “Except, that you’ll never know how truly sorry I am. Words are not sufficient enough to voice my regret. I could tell you excuse after excuse to hide what I did behind lovely and heartfelt words. But, the action has been done and no words will justify it.” Aiden paused, taking a step forward and then backing away. He itched to reach out to me, to touch me, just as much as I did him. We were lovers who’d turned into strangers. Once passionate for one another, we were now awkward and unsure.

With a quick swipe of my hand, I cleared the tears from my cheeks and willed myself to stop crying. It made me feel juvenile—weak. A speck of strength still grew within me, and I clutched it tight. It wasn’t the first time my heart had taken a beating, and it wouldn’t be the last. As much as Aiden’s betrayal hurt now, just like everything else, it would fade.

“Are you still drinking?” I managed to ask. The NAWC (North American Witches Council) was working around the clock to fix the spell that protected our blood. News of more murdered witches traveled on the grapevine. The addicts were desperate to get one last taste of what ran through our veins. Unfortunately, replacing the spell was trickier than the NAWC expected, and it was taking longer to ensure our safety.

“If I answer would you even believe me?” Aiden asked.

He had a point. “Humor me.”

I could use a truth spell, weave my question with magic and force him to tell me the truth, but something about using magic to obtain what he should rightfully give seemed wrong. I couldn’t gain my trust for him if I had to steal it.

“I have not had a sip since--”

“Since you killed a witch for it?” I finished for him.

Aiden rubbed his chin. “Yes.” He exhaled in frustration, his eyes burning from the inside out. Those eyes once seared my flesh as they roamed over my body. Now they made me feel vulnerable

“My Gwen,” Aiden said, stepping closer. The scent of soap and warm spices enveloped the air around me. “I’m not asking you to forget what I have done. I’m asking for us to move past it. Something like this will take time, I know, but we both live for a very long time.” He smiled but it was humorless. “I will spend eternity showing you how sorry I am if it means that one day you’ll accept me again.”

I held my head high, not bending under his stare. I had no doubt he could hear the rapid slamming of my heart against my ribcage though. My bravery, where Aiden was concerned, only ran skin deep. Inside was wreckage. But just like everything else, I could rebuild, even strengthen.

“I think space is best for now,” I told him. “I can’t be around you so soon, and pretend everything is normal.”

“That’s not--” Aiden began but I held up a hand to stop him.

“If you haven’t noticed, my life is in a serious shit storm right now. We’re still dealing with Holly, and the vampires are in a frenzy to kill as many witches as they can before the protection spell is secured. I cannot add relationship drama into the mix. I know that sounds heartless, but that’s the truth of it.” I restrained a smile, happy my voice came out strong.

“I understand, and if I can help in anyway…”

“I think it’s best you stay away from witches, at least until the spell is back in place.” I paused, debating whether I should ask the question that’d been nagging me. I could let it go, move on. But I needed to know.

“Why did you do it?”

“I was helping you track down Ian,” Aiden began and I shook my head.

“No, why did you keep drinking witches’ blood? Did the addiction make you do it, or did you crave power like Ian?” It was almost unbearable to think that Aiden and Ian could have something so ugly in common. Ian’s consumption of Brew stemmed from his need to obtain the magic within it, and he was very good at it. Then again, Holly—a NAWC council leader—was his teacher, and lover.

“Addiction, and nothing more. I am a vampire, and do not wish to be anything else.”

I nodded. “I’m sorry I got you wrapped up in this mess. If it hadn’t been for me then you never would have tried Brew. I know our problems are partly my fault.”

Aiden reached his hands out, his fingers running up and down the length of my arms. I didn’t pull away. His fingertips were cool, a sign he hadn’t fed recently. I tried not to think about how he got his food. Aiden didn’t like drinking bagged blood; he preferred it straight from the source. Did that mean that now that we weren’t together his feedings would be more sexual? That he’d inflicted the pheromone induced venom into his donor so they felt arousal? I reminded myself that it was none of my business anymore.

“I’m responsible for my own actions, my Gwen. I do not hold you accountable for my choices. Understand?”

I nodded.

“I will give you space,” Aiden continued. “That’s not to say that I’m giving up.”

“Aiden—”

“We have decades, centuries even, don’t count me out so soon. I need to know the future holds a chance.” Aiden’s eyes held the question, eager for my answer.

“I don’t want to hang on if you’re letting go,” he added.

Could I say without a doubt that I’d never give Aiden another chance? That I’d never be able to get over his misgivings and move on? No, I couldn’t. Part of me entertained the idea of the distant future holding something to look forward to. If I lived long enough that is. I imagined Aiden was battling some inner demons, a vampire’s midlife crisis of some sort. Maybe it was the reason he acted upon the temptation, maybe not. All I knew was that I couldn’t cut him out of my life completely. I knew without a doubt he loved me and love is never perfect. Even fairytales have their problems.

    “Yes.” I spoke soft, hesitant to give him hope I wasn’t sure would be there come tomorrow. Not that I thought he’d be pining for me until we were together again.

“I love you, Aiden.” I paused when his eyes lit up, catching me off guard. “But if by some chance we're together in the future it'll be in the distant future, understand?”

“Of course,” Aiden said. He tried sounding nonchalant but I detected a hint of disappointment. I hated how uncomfortable we were around each other when just a couple weeks ago we’d been sharing lingering looks and enjoying each other’s bodies. The world was a cruel, cruel place. Or maybe I was a glutton for punishment. I could end both of our suffering right here and now if I could just get past his two indiscretions. It wasn’t in my nature though. My mother used to tell me that my stubbornness was all of my father’s fault. At the time I thought being hard headed meant I was difficult. Now I looked at it as a badge of honor to my character. It allowed me to stand up for myself, not to take the easiest road. If my parents did anything for me, it was giving me that trait. I’d need it more now than ever.

“Have you gotten news of Holly?” Aiden asked. I guess now that we’d discussed our relationship he was on to more progressive things. I appreciated the change of subject, even if it had to do with my potential death.

“The council has rescheduled the trial for another week,” I told him. Charles had called me early Monday morning to tell me the news. It should have comforted me but it had the opposite effect. The sooner Dorian and I told our side of the story—that Holly was the culprit in breaking the protection spell of our blood—the sooner I could stop looking over my shoulder.

“The reason for their delay?” Aiden tucked his hands in the pockets of his tailored pants.  The movement caused his jacket to span open, reveling a tightly tucked in crimson dress shirt. The man knew how to rock a suit.

“They’re busy with the spell. That takes priority over a tiff between Holly and me,” I snorted, repeating the words Charles had used. “I agree with them though. Just in a week twenty-four witches have been murdered across the United States.”

It amazed me how the news spread so fast. What, did Holly and Ian send out a newsletter? Just thinking about those two caused pure rage to bubble up. Hate is a strong word, one I don’t use lightly, but I hated Holly and Ian. Aiden laughed, a deep rumbling in his chest. I looked back at him in confusion.

“I’m sorry,” Aiden began. “I find it funny that they’re fighting to restrain order yet keeping the one responsible from conviction.”

He had a point. “I suspect it’s because the one responsible is a member of the NAWC. If it were me, or any other witch, we’d be pushing up daisies by now.”

I frowned because it was very possible that my death was in the near future. If Holly was anything it was ruthless. Her spot on the council was power, and she wasn’t about to give it up. I was the only thing separating her from keeping her place with the NAWC and out of the coffin. She had to know that the evidence against her was too strong. Not only was I witness to the entire thing, but I also had Dorian and Aiden. Plus I could summon the spirits I’d used the night of the showdown, and order them to testify as well. I’d learned a lot of cool tricks while in Moon, and I planned to use them to my advantage.

“You know if you need me all you have to do is say the word,” Aiden said. I must have looked overwhelmed because his tone was reassuring. I sent him a small smile, but made a mental note not to depend on him anymore. I couldn’t look to him for comfort or protection, not anymore. From now it was me, myself and I. My only option left was to be strong, and I was ready to test my strength. 

1 year anniversary of Craved!

July 25th marks one year since I published Craved – Book 1 in the Gwen Sparks Series. It’s been an amazing rollercoaster and has forever changed my life. I’ve met some fantastic people, learned a lot and most importantly, found something I want to do with the rest of my life—write.

The support of my readers, friends and family has been amazing to say the least. To show my appreciation, I’ve put together one heck of a giveaway. Because of you guys, Craved reached #1 on Amazon’s bestseller’s list and #5 on Barnes & Noble’s bestseller’s list. Thank you guys for making my first year of being publish something I’ll remember for the rest of my life. Check out what you could win below!

8 Signed Paperbacks from the following authors!! 13 Ebooks from participating authors!! $100 Amazon Gift Card & $20 Barnes & Noble Gift Card!! a Rafflecopter giveaway

Bitten Shame Tour

Today I have an interview with Olivia Hardin's characters Jill and Doc from Bitten Shame - Book 2 in the Bend-Bite-Shift trilogy.


Blurb
Jill Prescott returned from self-imposed seclusion to help save her best friend Devan’s life. Throwing herself into Devan’s problems and bringing an evil organization to its knees might just be the distraction she needs to keep living without the only man she’s ever loved. Her life changed forever when she was hired to spend a week with Doc Massey. On the day she became a vampire her youthful innocence ended, but Doc’s love rescued her from being consumed by the darkness. The shadow of that former life continues to loom over her, keeping her from realizing her own self-worth. Running from her past only brings her closer to a destiny that is inextricably connected to what she is trying to escape… 

                                                                   Every gift has both a reward and a price, because All of it fits… 

                                                       Buy it here - Amazon, Barnes & Noble Being a fellow author I know how answering the same questions over and over can get a little repetitive. So, I thought getting to know Jill and Doc a little more would be refreshing!

First up is Jill!

1) What is your favorite song?
  Ah, that would have to be “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”  Love me some Elvis Presley and that’s also a special song for me and Doc.  *winks*

2) Favorite thing to paint?
  I just like lots of colors.  I don’t really have a fav.  It’s been a lot of fun painting all the rooms in the hospital with assorted Disney and other cartoon characters.

3) What were you going to school for?
  I was studying business.  I was never really sure what I’d do with it, but I knew I needed a broad field that would get me somewhere.  I mean, I love art and wouldn’t loved to pursued that, but I didn’t have money like Devan did.  I needed something more substantial.  Or at least that’s what I thought.

4) You seem like a laidback, happy-go-lucky girl. Is there anything you’re afraid of?
  The dark?  *laughs nervously*  I guess deep down I’m just afraid of being alone.

5) What was the first thought that went through your head after learning Doc’s secret?
  Uhm… Wow?  I wasn’t as surprised as probably some people would have been.  I always thought there was more to this world that was on the surface.  I thought it was kinda cool.

Alright, Doc you’re up!
  
1) What is your favorite song?
  Well, there’s this song that I once caught Jill dancing to.  It isn’t the song so much as I enjoy the way she moves to it. After that first time I saw her… well, let’s just say I’ve watched her dance to it a few times since then. *gets an intense, faraway look in his eyes*  I think it’s something like “Damn, I wish I was your lover.”  Do you know that one?

Stephanie: Yes, I've heard that one. It's a great song.

2) If I remember correctly, you have a lot of books in your office. Do you have one that is your all-time favorite?
  The Count of Monte Cristo had become my favorite over the years.  I suppose the idea of the ultimate revenge is one I liked to live vicariously. 

3) First thought after learning Jill had started painting the hospital rooms in cheery colors?
  My first thought was that she was a presumptuous chit!  But that was before I actually saw her work.  The abandon with which she used that talent, pouring all of her life and beauty onto the walls.  I was awed by it.

4) Were you worried Jill would leave the hospital after learning your secret?
  I was worried she would be leave and I was worried she wouldn’t.  I warred with myself over it.  I couldn’t believe I was good for her and yet, I couldn’t deny how much I wanted to possess her.

5) What is your favorite thing about Jill?
  She has a brightness about her.  I’d forgotten about life–I mean real, beautiful, youthful life– until she came to me.  That is my favorite thing about her.  Oh, and the way she scrunches her face when she waves her hand at you and says, “Pfft!”

About the Author Olivia Hardin realized early on how strange she was to have complete movie-like character dreams as a child. Eventually she began putting those vivid dreams to paper and was rarely without her spiral notebooks full of those mental ramblings. Her forgotten vision of becoming an author was realized when she connected with a group of amazingly talented and fabulous writers who gave her lots of direction and encouragement. With a little extra push from family and friends, she hunkered down to get lost in the words. She's also an insatiable crafter who only completes about 1 out of 5 projects, a jogger who hates to run, and is sometimes accused of being artistic, though she's generally too much of a perfectionist to appreciate her own work. A native Texas girl, Olivia lives in the beautiful Lone Star state with her husband and their puppy Bonnie. 

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