Laurisa White Reyes's Blog, page 26

WRITER 2 WRITER: SEX IN YA - HOW FAR IS TOO FAR?

What is the top grossing genre in fiction? The answer might surprise you. Romance/erotica rakes in a whopping $1.44 billion in sales each year and is the most read genre of books among women. Adult women. But what about teen girls? They like romance, too, and while girls will read what they want to read, as a writer of teen fiction, where do I draw the line between romance and sex?

Not long ago, I got hooked into a best-selling YA series. And I loved it—until the protagonists had sex. Then I hated the books and wished I hadn’t wasted my time on them. I love a good, steamy romance scene, but when it comes to underage characters, going all the way is going too far.
Some might accuse me of being unrealistic, that most teens today are sexually active, and so the books they read ought to reflect that. But is it really necessary to encourage promiscuous behavior and use it to entertain young readers—because entertainment is the primary purpose of fiction, isn’t it? I claim the answer is no.

Maybe the part of me talking about this is the mother of five children, including two former and two current teens. I don’t want my kids sleeping around, so why would I create characters who do? Maybe it’s the part of me who adheres to a strict Christian moral code and tries to pass that code down to my children. Either way, there is a definite “sex” line in YA books that I, as an author, will not cross.

So, how can authors of teen fiction satisfy the “sex” itch without going too far? Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight series captured the throbbing hearts of millions of adolescent readers with nothing more than occasional, wholesome kisses. (Granted, her fourth book include non-graphic sex, but by then the characters were married.) Another author whose books make readers swoon yet keeps her characters’ hormones at bay is Marissa Meyer, author of The Lunar Chronicles. How do they do it (without actually doing it)?

SEXUAL TENSION is the anticipation of a romance between characters. It’s the “will they, won’t they?” tug and pull throughout a plot. Imagine two people each grasping opposite ends of the rope. There is tension only as long as the opponents are pulling in opposite directions. The moment the romance actually happens, the tension is gone. Game over. Keep that tension going as long as possible, and when it does end, remember the reader just wants the characters to end up together. Sex isn’t necessary.

LESS IS MORE is true for so many things, especially when it comes to literary romance. Think of Kathy and Heathcliff, Jane Eyre and Edward Rochester, Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy? The most memorable romance novels in history actually have very little romance. That is to say, there is little physical contact between the characters. Instead, romance is expressed in the way the characters feel about each other and how their relationship develops and evolves over time.

BE REAL. One problem with teen sex in novels is that these books tend to avoid the very real complications and consequences of physical intimacy. Rarely do these fictional characters feel shame or guilt, fear getting pregnant (or actually get pregnant), stress over STDs, or nurse heartbreaks from getting dumped afterwards, or worse having their “experience” publicized on social media. In the real world, sex between minors is rarely the perfect lovefest depicted in so many books. If an author feels he/she MUST put sex in a book for teens, at least be honest about it.

THERE’S NOTHING SEXY ABOUT ABUSE. Some writers like to create “bad boy” love interests for female protagonists: Boys who brood and are emotionally distant. Boys who are borderline abusive and controlling. Boys who convince their female counterparts that sex is an appropriate way to express love. What a bunch of baloney! I, for one, would not want my daughters coming home with a guy like that. Nor would I want my characters to be manipulated by self-indulgent creeps with a handsome face and sexy haircut. Blech! Instead, girls want guys they can count on and trust, boys who are intelligent and strong, yet kind and caring.

If you write for teens, consider the implications of your characters’ choices on your readers. Sadly, it is true sex sells. But it doesn’t have to sell to teenagers.

If you’re looking for clean romance novels, check out Clean Teen Publishing.

$25 AMAZON GIVEAWAY - GALACTIC MANDATE by M.R. Richardson

Galactic Mandate: A Radical Causeby M.R. RichardsonGenre: SciFi, Space Opera

The galaxy is in turmoil. The two main powers, the Acolyte Empire and the Clone Defense Force, vie for supremacy. 

Caught in between are the weaker Galactic Planetary League and independent planets, pawns to be used and discarded in the greater game. The peace of the galaxy rests on a powder keg…and the fuse is about to be lit. 
As the son of the Acolyte Emperor God-Reign, Devante lives a life of power and luxury that few can fathom. 
Since childhood, he has devoted his life to one thing: freeing the clone slaves of the CDF and banning the practice of cloning throughout the galaxy. But he is about to uncover a secret that goes to the heart of the empire he loves and serves, one that will set him on a course of vengeance and destruction that will shake the galaxy to its core. 
Against this backdrop of war, treachery, and intrigue, Galactic Mandate tells an epic saga of god-emperors and assassins, spies and queens, princesses and slaves. 
The lives of all will be irrevocably changed as Devante embraces his destiny—for when empires collide, no one is safe, and there is no place in the galaxy to hide. 

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M.R. Richardson is a new African-American science fiction author. He hopes to spread a new type of story. Something raw, and original that everyone over 18 can enjoy. M.R. Richardson is the author of Galactic Mandate: A Radical Cause, and the founder of Room 10 Publishing.
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$25 GIVEAWAY - MY BROTHER'S BRIDE by Rachel Anderson

   My Brother’s Bride by Rachael Anderson Abigail Nash leads a lonely existence. Her mother died giving birth to her, her father’s business dealings took him away more often than not, and her ailing great-aunt, unable to provide much in the way of companionship, was a lack-luster guardian at best. So when her dear friends offered to launch her into London society, it appeared Abby’s life was taking a turn for the better, with suitors and social engagements aplenty. When she marries a proclaimed darling of the ton, it seems she will at last settle into the life of her dreams. But appearances aren’t always what they seem, and dreams often become disappointments. Just months into her marriage, Abby finds herself widowed, penniless, increasing, and determined to never hope again. But when her late husband’s brother, the Earl of Brigston, attempts to thaw the numbness surrounding her heart, Abby must decide if she has it in her to risk another chance at happiness, knowing the odds are not in her favor. Add to Goodreads   My Sister’s Intended by Rachael Anderson For as long as Prudence can remember, it has been understood that her sister will one day wed the eldest son of their nearest neighbor. Such an alliance will benefit both families and bring a great deal of joy to all parents involved. Unfortunately, Prudence has never been able to feel as joyful. She believes her sister is mad to consider marrying a man she hardly knows, even if he will one day make her a countess. Titles and wealth shouldn’t factor into matters of the heart, and as an aspiring romance novelist, Prudence cannot fathom how anyone could even think of settling for less than love. She certainly wouldn’t, and she doesn’t want her sister to either. Unable to stand by and do nothing, Prudence sets out to help the awkward couple discover the best in each other with the hope that they will eventually find love. What she neglected to foresee, however, was the possibility that she might fall in love with Lord Knave herself. AMAZON Read for FREE with KINDLE UNLIMITED 
When Prudence lifted her eyes to his again, they sparkled with a challenge. “I was going to save this question until later so as not to shock you from the get-go, but I really do need to know . . . What does it feel like to kiss a woman?” A large lump formed in Brand’s throat, and his mouth went dry. What the deuce? She had promised not to ask questions that would make him uncomfortable, but already he wanted to flee like a frightened kitten. How could he possibly explain how it felt to kiss a woman? Brand searched his mind for a way to avoid answering until he heard a snicker escape her lips. She was laughing at him. Him! Hildebrand Ethan Cannon, Viscount Knave—a man at least eight years her senior and a great deal higher in social standing. Unbelievable. “You are teasing me,” he said, hoping it was true. If she’d posed the question to make him squirm—and perhaps make him more inclined to answer her other questions—then she wouldn’t be expecting an answer. She shook her head, still smiling. “I’m afraid not, my lord, although I did find the look of terror on your face vastly amusing.” “I’m glad I could entertain you.” “I hope you will be equally glad to instruct me on a few things as well. The first scene in my book will include a kiss, and I have no idea how to describe the experience. Do a woman’s lips feel warm or soft or even moist? Would your pulse quicken? Aside from touch, what other senses are engaged? How would it make you feel and what would you notice when you held a woman in your arms?” If she thought he’d appeared terror-stricken before, there would be no word for how he looked now. Did she earnestly expect him to answer such questions? Surely even she knew how inappropriate it would be to discuss such things, her being an innocent. “I cannot say,” he finally muttered. Her brow puckered in confusion. “Have you never kissed a woman, my lord?” Brand was sorely tempted to lie and say he had not, but he couldn’t bring himself to do so. Any man of six-and-twenty who had never experienced a kiss would be laughed out of his manhood. Women were expected to remain innocent until married. Men were not. “Yes, I have kissed a woman,” he finally admitted, “but I have no intention of discussing any of the details with you.” “Why not?” she asked, her large brown eyes blinking at him curiously. “Would you rather I invent the information?” “Yes.” She obviously didn’t appreciate his retort because she scowled. “Can you not tell me at least a little?” “No.” “Why?” “Because a kiss could never be described with any sort of accuracy, at least not by me. It involves too many feelings and sensations and complexities of thought. If you wish to know what a kiss feels like, you’ll have to experience it for yourself.” Too late, Brand realized his mistake. Her expression became contemplative, as though she was actually considering doing just that. Good gads, had he really just encouraged an innocent young woman to go hunting for a kiss? Who would she ask? A groom? Stablehand? The next peddler that came to town? “I think you are right,” she said at last. “I really must experience a kiss for myself if I am to describe it with any sort of accuracy.” She blinked up at him with that innocent expression again. “Will you kiss me Lord Knave? No, how silly of me. You are to marry my sister, so that would never do.” She pursed her lips for a moment before musing, “Perhaps one of the footmen would be kind enough to show me how it’s done.” Kind enough? Brand could think of a great many reasons a footman would comply with such a request, and kindness did not factor into any of them. Brand would kiss her himself before he allowed a footman near her. He rubbed the bridge of his nose, feeling a headache coming on. “Perhaps I can try to explain what it feels like after all.” Better that than having her chase after a footman. “But you only just said you couldn’t do it justice,” she pointed out. “I realize I sound dreadfully forward, but I really must know, and experience is the best teacher, is it not?” “No, it isn’t,” he lied. “And you are not going to kiss a footman.” “Then who? Felix or Lionel, perhaps? I’m fairly certain I can convince one of them to do it, if given the opportunity. The question is how to go about it?” It was plain to see by the firm set of her jaw that she would not rest until she had experienced a kiss of her own. She didn’t seem to care who did the deed, only that the man did a thorough job of it. A quick peck on the lips wouldn’t satisfy her curiosities. “Perhaps I could send a note to Felix and ask him to call on me,” she continued to muse. “We could take a stroll through the maze in the gardens. There is a hidden alcove on the south side, which could be quite perfect. We would have to evade Ruth, obviously, but—” “Devil take it,” Brand growled as he pulled her to him. Her quick intake of breath was the only sound she made before his mouth covered hers.     “I got seriously hooked on this book right from the first glance. Everything in this story is so beautiful and done so perfectly. The cover is stunning, the blurb intriguing and the story flow expertly done.” –NjKinny’s World of Books & Stuff “The moment I set eyes on this cover page, I knew I am going to love this cute love story. Delightfully crafted with endearing characters this is an ongoing tale of fun, love and some hard decisions. –Finitha J., Know Your Books Blog “My Sister’s Intended is my FAVORITE kind of book to read. It is the kind of story I will save in my Kindle forever so I can re-read again and again. What makes this story so good? Everything! This book is pure perfection.” –Nicole, Christian Fiction Girl Blog. “WOW. I reserve five stars for books that blow me away, and this has become my newest addition! What a delight to discover a gem like this.” –Mary, Goodreads.com    Author Rachael Anderson A USA Today bestselling author, Rachael Anderson is the mother of four and is pretty good at breaking up fights, or at least sending guilty parties to their rooms. She can’t sing, doesn’t dance, and despises tragedies. But she recently figured out how yeast works and can now make homemade bread, which she is really good at eating.  
     Giveaway Details Ends 10/5/18 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.    a Rafflecopter giveaway

$25 GIVEAWAY - THE SONGS THAT BROUGHT ME BACK by Mylissa Demeyere

Coming December 4, 2018 The Songs That Brought Me Back by Mylissa Demeyere  Have you ever made a mistake? One so monumental you lost everything? I did, and I hate myself for it! All I want to do is close my eyes, and let the darkness consume me. Make it all go away. The end. Ainsley is drowning in the depth of her despair. One wrong decision left her alone, with only regret as her constant companion. To escape it all, she makes another choice. One she hopes will end everything. Instead, she’s thrown into a whole new world filled with opportunities she doesn’t believe she deserves. Ethan gives the appearance of breezing through life. But underneath his bright facade, he’s scarred by loss. When fate leads him into Ainsley’s world at the exact moment she needs someone the most, he can’t ignore the chance to right the wrongs of his past. Ainsley and Ethan will struggle to help each other heal and start anew. They’ll learn that the secret to conquering their pain lies within their power, if only they can do it together. Always together. Sometimes the ending is really the beginning.
      What Readers are Saying: A heartfelt romance with a powerful message about the sanctity of human life. If you've ever simply needed a friend, The Songs That Brought Me Back will resonate--and leave you thankful for the people in your life. -Taylor Dean, author of I’m With You and Chasing Fireflies.   Another remarkable read by Mylissa Demeyere. Ethan and Ainsley had me laughing and crying as they face their own demons and fall in love while doing it. This book adds even more depth as it confronts suicide head on. Suicide has become an epidemic that some are afraid to address; Demeyere brings it to light from both the victims and the survivors giving us insight on the struggles of so many. It does not disappoint and I, again, am excited to see what comes next from this talented writer. – Amazon Reviewer   A beautiful sequel to The Songs of You and Me that cleverly illustrates that there are always two sides to every story and that it is never too late for love to overcome any challenge. – Amazon Reviewer   “This poignant redemption story about second chances and forgiveness yanked my emotions all over the place. I cried, I yearned, I hoped. A beautiful story about what true love is and does.” - Charissa Stastny, author of Between Hope and the Highway and The Ruled Out Romance Series
    
Author Mylissa Demeyere Mylissa Demeyere was born in Belgium, and resides in the beautiful city of Ghent. She lives in a somewhat organized home with her four beautiful children and the love of her life. If she isn’t working, she’s writing, running, reading, or enjoying time with her kids, who are growing up way too fast. The Songs That Brought Me Back is her second novel in The Songs Series, with a third book releasing in the middle of 2019.
Website * BookBub * Facebook * Instagram * TwitterAmazon * Goodreads * Pinterest  $25 Amazon Gift Code or $25 in PayPal Cash Ends 10/9/18 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
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$20 AMAZON GIVEAWAY - BABY LOVE by Latiera N. Ford

Baby Loveby Latiera N. FordGenre: YA Coming of Age
Love is a little girl who faces a number of challenges between her school and her home. We all can relate to the pressures of not being accepted by our peers,sibling rivalry, lost relationships and the struggle to find love through it all. While directly pin pointing these important issues, Baby Love serves as an open call for awareness that can hopefully bring us one step closer to making a positive change in the lives of all children. This book is a must read for young adults ranging from age 13 years and older. Baby Love tells a story of issues that arise for young children that include bullying, issues with family, and it also teaches lessons on self love, acceptance, and kindness to one others.
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Latiera Ford is a career HR Professional turned Author and Entrepreneur. Born and raised in the south suburbs of Chicago, IL., she has always taken pride in hard work and dedication. Through news outlets, social media, family, and friends she noticed a lack of sensitivity that children have today. This has led to an increase in bullying, lack of positive self-image and acceptance, as well as family issues. Upon discovering this powerful message that needed to be addressed she decided to self-publish her first book entitled Baby Love. This book provides children from ages 13 and up with a straight forward approach to some of today’s most pressing issues. While tackling the aforementioned issues plaguing some of our youth, it also provides a direct approach on how they can be handled, while also teaching lessons of love and kindness. Unlike the normal cookie cutter children’s stories, this book is also honest to the core with some of the real issues that exist within families across America. Baby Love has proven to be a strong book for this Chicago Native, and is destined to continue making waves throughout the literary scene. While promoting this project, Latiera is currently in Atlanta looking to further expand her brand through speaking engagements, press, school, vendor events and more! Website* Facebook * Twitter * Instagram* Goodreads

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$25 GIVEAWAY - THE OWNER'S SECRET by Kimberley Montpetit

 The Owner's Secret: A Secret Billionaire Romance by Kimberley Montpetit A brutal storm. A cryptic message. A life changed . . . forever. Melody de Leon's cozy New Orleans bookstore is her pride and joy – until a violent hurricane sweeps it all away. Forced to flee the storm by boat with her ailing grandmother, she wonders how she will ever pick up the pieces of this disaster. Then, in a fevered state, her grandmother utters a cryptic message that sets Melody on the quest of a lifetime: “Go to White Castle.” With nothing left to lose, Melody seeks out the old mansion – a beautiful Southern relic haunted by secrets. Once there, she finds Britt Mandeville, the handsome and charming White Castle caretaker. Sparks fly, but any hopes of a relationship between them are dashed when she discovers that Britt is already spoken for. When Melody stumbles across a strange 60-year-old photograph in the house, she is determined to find answers – and the shocking revelations and strange twists of fate lead her right back to Britt. Can she put all the pieces of the puzzle together, or will family secrets and true love be lost to her forever? Get it Now on AMAZONRead for FREE with Kindle UnlimtedAdd to your Goodreads Shelf   #1 Excerpt “Before I forget,” Britt said, turning around on the threshold. “Here’s a key to your room. You can lock the door from inside and feel perfectly safe.” When he handed over the old-fashioned key, Melody gave him a wan smile. “I think you are a mind-reader, sir. Thank you.” Britt crossed the corridor toward the staircase and descended, giving her a quick glance over his shoulder. Biting at her lips, Melody closed the door lest he think she was staring at him—even though she was staring. How did a stunning man like Britt Mandeville become a caretaker of an old house, gardening, cooking, and repairing fences? Instead, he looked like a model for a fashion magazine. Once, again, Melody wondered why her grandmother had insisted she come to White Castle. Britt Mandeville was an enigma and she was full of questions about the man, but her grandmother’s almost desperate plea for her presence at this strange Southern mansion was the biggest mystery of all. #2 Excerpt Knocking with her fist, Melody called out, “Mr. Mandeville, can you help me open the door?” She shoved against the heavy doors one more time in case he didn’t hear her—at the same moment the massive front door popped open and she fell across the threshold, tumbling against the tall, solid caretaker. Literally falling into his arms. “Oh!” she cried out, her face growing hot when Britt Mandeville threw his arms around her so she didn’t end up flat on her face. “I’m sorry. I couldn’t get the door open. I didn’t mean to—” she stopped, his face close—too close. A rush of sensations came over her. Melody tried not to think about the man’s hard muscles underneath the soft flannel shirt he was wearing, or his sandpaper jaw, or the pair of amazing lips so close to hers—when she had practically knocked her face into his at the moment they collided. “You’re fine now,” Britt said, sliding his hands along her arms as he bent to look into her face. “You okay?” “Yep. I’m fine. Perfectly fine.” Except for her racing heart and a pounding in her ears, she was calm as a summer’s morning.     "The Owner's Secret had me hooked from the very beginning. Britt Mandeville is a character who is hard to forget. Melody tries to, but all of Britt’s gentlemanly ways, and his devastatingly good looks are not helping. With the mystery of White Castle and her grandmother urging her to go there for refuge after the hurricane, Melody finds herself drawn to Britt and the strange memories surrounding the beautiful plantation mansion. I loved the mystery, the history of the southern plantation, the fun literary references, but especially the friendship and swoony romance between Britt and Melody. I didn't want to set the book down, even after I had finished the last page. Clean and swoony romance readers alike, this is one book you'll not want to miss!"   The Owner's Secret is just 99 cents on September 17th  The Neighbor's Secret is FREE on September 17th   Author Kimberley Montpetit When she was in Paris, Kimberley Montpetit spent most of her souvenir money at the La Patisserie shops with their beautiful and delicious pastries. She grew up in the fabulous city of San Francisco, loves all things chocolate, and now lives in a small town along the Rio Grande with her engineer husband and three sons. She once stayed in the haunted tower room at Borthwick Castle in Scotland and didn't sleep a wink, sailed the Seine in Paris, rode a camel in the ancient world wonder of Petra, shopped the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, and spent the night in an old Communist hotel in Bulgaria. Kimberley also writes Award-winning Middle-Grade novels with Scholastic and epic Young Adult novels with Harpercollins under the name, Kimberley Griffiths Little.
   Giveaway Details Ends 10/8/18 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.  a Rafflecopter giveaway

$25 GIVEAWAY - THE STRANGER SHE MARRIED by Donna Hatch

   The Stranger She Married by Donna Hatch When her parents and twin brother die within weeks of each other, Alicia and her younger sister are left in the hands of an uncle who has brought them all to financial and social ruin. Desperate to save her family from debtor's prison, Alicia vows to marry the first wealthy man to propose. She meets the dashing Lord Amesbury, and her heart whispers that this is the man she is destined to love, but his tainted past may forever stand in their way. Her choices in potential husbands narrow to either a scarred cripple with the heart of a poet, or a handsome rake with a deadly secret. Cole Amesbury is tormented by his own ghosts, and believes he is beyond redemption, yet he cannot deny his attraction for the girl whose genuine goodness touches the heart he'd thought long dead. He fears the scars in his soul cut so deeply that he may never be able to offer Alicia a love that is true. When yet another bizarre mishap threatens her life, Alicia suspects the seemingly unrelated accidents that have plagued her loved ones are actually a killer's attempt to exterminate every member of her family. Despite the threat looming over her, learning to love the stranger she married may pose the greatest danger to her heart. And Cole must protect Alicia from the killer who has been exterminating her family before she is the next target. This romantic story of loss and betrayal, forgiveness and redemption, and strangers marrying, will leave you laughing, crying, and swooning. Sprinkled liberally with suspense, mystery, and heart-melting kisses, this is not your ordinary historical tale of an arranged marriage nor of redeeming the rakes. Fans of Victorian and Regency Eras as well as those seeking clean and wholesome romance with plenty of chemistry, not to mention the redemptive power of love, will love this story! Dance with a duke, outwit pirates, save a kingdom, and fall in love. Believe in happily ever after. Get your copy on AMAZONRead for FREE with Kindle UnlimitedAdd to Goodreads   Mrs. Hancock beamed as Alicia reached her side, put an arm around Alicia, and brought her into their circle. “Miss Alicia Palmer, allow me to introduce Lord Amesbury.” Even more devastating up close, Lord Amesbury turned to Alicia. His piercing blue eyes threatened the strength in her knees. Though taller than most ladies, Alicia still had to look up to meet his gaze. No other color existed in those eyes; no green or gray, only deep, dark blue, like the fathomless depths of the ocean. All the other men she had met lately, namely those her uncle insisted she consider for a husband, had taken careful note of her figure. But this gentleman only looked into her eyes. Very deeply. Lord Amesbury inclined his head. “Miss Palmer.” His resonant, bass voice touched her very soul. Alicia met his frank gaze and a sensation she did not quite understand stirred within her until breathing became a conscious effort. Mrs. Hancock discreetly coughed, and Alicia realized she’d been locked in eye contact with the Viscount much longer than appropriate. Unable to pull her eyes away, Alicia sank into a curtsey. “My lord.” No longer merely polite, his smile broadened, warmed, transforming an already handsome face into a perfectly stunning visage. Sensuality radiated off him, not in a manner that left her feeling threatened, but in a way that left her breathless for more. More of what, she did not know. But she wanted to find out. “Miss Palmer,” Lord Amesbury said, “May I have the next dance?” Alicia blinked. She looked back at Elizabeth who smiled encouragingly. Mrs. Hancock also smiled and nodded, but a touch of disappointment tainted her approval, reminding Alicia the dear lady had hoped her own daughter would attract the attention of the very eligible Lord Amesbury. That he’d singled out Alicia seemed a dream. She squelched all hope that she might hold his interest. Surely only politeness motivated him to dance with the plainest girl first. He’d soon turn his attention to the beautiful ladies. Finding her voice, Alicia replied, “I would be delighted, my lord.” As the final notes of the current dance ended and the next began, Lord Amesbury offered his arm. She took it, an unfamiliar quiver beginning in her stomach. The art of dancing, she found as the set began, had not abandoned her as completely as her wits. The handsome viscount danced with athletic grace, his attention focused upon her. The warmth of his hand seeped through their kidskin gloves. He held her gently, firmly. A playful glint touched his sapphire eyes. “I must warn you. Now that we’ve danced, my aunt will take it upon herself to ask you your opinion of me. She will most certainly interrogate me regarding you.” She met those probing eyes and her mouth curved. “Oh? Has your aunt become your self-proclaimed matchmaker?” A wry smile touched his lips. “Of course. I’m thirty and not yet married. She feels it her duty to ensure I produce an heir before I’m too old. Despite my efforts to delay that obligation, she persists.” Alicia nodded, her smile deepening at his indelicate statement. “That is a dilemma.” “Since you and I have only just met, it will be difficult to offer a fair assessment of your character. And if I say anything positive about you, she’ll plan the wedding.” His smile brightened, lighting up his stunning face. Alicia missed her step. Even while dancing with the very handsome Duke of Suttenberg two Seasons ago, such a keen attraction for a man had never overcome her as it did tonight. Yet she was nearly twenty, for heaven’s sake, not a missish schoolgirl! “Your aunt is a strong woman and a kind lady, my lord. I am sure you can reason with her.” “I suppose she possesses a good heart deep, deep down inside, but be truthful; she’s sharp-tongued and outspoken.” She laughed and then clapped her hand over her mouth. “My lord! She might hear you.” He chuckled. “Fear not. We needle each other as frequently as possible. I say worse things to her face. I enjoy watching her squirm and plot a counter- attack.” That reminded her of the playful banter she shared with her cousin Robert. “I don’t recall her ever mentioning you, my lord.” His smile turned self-deprecating. “I’m one of those relations no one mentions.”
"The intrigue held me spellbound until the very end and it was an unexpected ending. I will definitely be looking for more…”– Excerpt from Night Owl Romance “I don’t think I have ever read dialog that is quite so fresh, varied and robust to the point that it is not only woven seamlessly into the plot, but it almost becomes a living, breathing thing in itself.” -excerpt from Hope Chest Reviews ” No one creates chemistry between Regency Historical characters better than Donna Hatch. If you want a “sweet” read, but with lots of sizzle, you have to read one of her books.” ~ Carol A. Spradling    Author Donna Hatch Best-selling author of Regency Historical Romances, Donna Hatch is a hopeful romantic and adventurer at heart. Donna sings and plays the harp, and loves to ballroom dance. Her family, including six children, recently left their native Arizona for the west coast of the US. No matter where they live, she and her husband of over twenty years are living proof that there truly is a happily ever after.
   Giveaway Details $25 Amazon Gift Code or $25 in Paypal Cash Ends 10/5/18 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
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BOOK REVIEW: THE DEBT COLLECTOR - WRAITH by Susan Kaye Quinn

THE DEBT COLLECTOR: WRAITH
Season 2
Susan Kaye Quinn

Adult Sci-fi

What's your life worth on the open market?

In this sexy, gritty future noir, debt collectors take your life energy and give it to someone more "worthy"... all while paying the price with black marks on their souls.

Wraith is a shadow in the night, haunting the bedrooms of the rich "high potentials" who have stolen life energy from the desperate and dying. The justice and the sweet mercy hit that follow keep her from falling into her own personal abyss. Her secret nighttime work also keeps her on level for her real mission: carrying on her father's mission to bring an end to debt collection as a whole. But when a mysterious debt collector interrupts her in the act and discovers her secret, everything Wraith loves may be destroyed by the one thing she can never fix--the original sin of being a debt collector herself.


MY REVIEW:

Addicted! That's what I am. I'm addicted to Susan Kaye Quinn's The Debt Collector series. I read Season One: Lirium a couple of years ago and have been biting my nails ever since, waiting for the release of Season Two: Wraith.

Wraith is the daughter of an anti-collector activist tycoon who was cashed out by a debt collector. But he never knew the truth about his own daughter: that she is a debt collector too. By skin-to-skin contact she can drain the life energy from one person and give it to another. But unlike most collectors, she's a good guy. She drains from the rich and wicked and gives to the weak and needy. But her secret is about to explode wide open when she's blackmailed by Gehenna, a powerful underground league hellbent on making debt collectors all-powerful and eternal.

Wraith wants to save her own skin, but she also wants to take Gehenna down...but then she falls for its number one henchman: gorgeous, mysterious Zachariel.

Wow! Wraith really packs a punch. The story and characters immediately drew me in, and Quinn's narrative paints a vivid, absolutely believable future world where tech and life energy reign. I would love to see The Debt Collector as a Netflix original series, but the books are so engrossing, TV isn't needed.

While Wraith can stand alone, I do encourage reading Lirium as well. [Read my review HERE ] I literally cannot wait for Series Three!

BOOK GIVEAWAY: THE FINAL LIFE SERIES by Rose Garcia

Title: The Final Life Series Box SetAuthor: Rose GarciaGenre: YA Sci-Fi/ParanormalPublication Date: September 17th, 2018Hosted by: Lady Amber's PR Blurb: This box set includes the first three books of The Final Life Series: Final Life, Final Stand, and Final Death. A complete story, the saga of Dominique's quest for survival will leave you on the edge of your seat.Final Life: For seventeen-year-old Dominique, nothing sucks more than moving across the country during senior year. Angry and feeling alone, she thinks things can't get worse, until her new neighbor pressures her into playing a psychic card game. The cards spark a vision of a red desert where a malignant presence hints at past lives and threatens to kill her...again. If Dominique is to put an end to the evil pursuing her, she must push through her fears and discover the secrets of her past. If she doesn't, she'll be dead. For real.Final Stand: Dominique is still alive after facing Tavion, the Tainted who's hunted her for lifetimes. Yet her protectors still fear for her life. They force her to flee Houston and abandon the friends she loves, but they can't protect her from herself. When Dominique starts hearing Tavion's voice in her head, she realizes that her personal connection to the Tainted still exists. And when her car is ambushed, she discovers another frightening truth...someone close to her is a traitor.Final Death: Dominique has conquered the evil within her, only to find her one true love has to kill her. Desperate to spare her friends and loved ones from sharing her same fate, Dominique ditches her companions in an effort to protect them. Her new mission is to kill before being killed. With time running out, Dominique is hell bent on finishing what was started nine lives ago, or finally face her final death. Rose Garcia is a lawyer turned writer who’s always been fascinated by science fiction and fantasy. From a very young age, she often had her nose buried in books about other-worlds, fantastical creatures, and life and death situations. More recently she’s been intrigued by a blend of science fiction and reality, and the idea that some supernatural events are, indeed, very real. Fueled by her imagination, she created The Final Life Series—a Young Adult science fiction/fantasy series about people who have the ability to control the energy in and around them. Rose is known for bringing richly diverse characters to life as she draws from her own cultural experiences. Rose lives in Houston, Texas with her awesome husband and two amazing kids. You can visit Rose at www.rosegarciabooks.com.Author Links: Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorRoseGarciaTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RoseGarciaBooksAuthor Amazon Page: http://amzn.to/2BVum1DGoodread: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5829367.Rose_GarciaPinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/RoseGarciaBooksInstagram: http://instagram.com/RoseGarciaBooksYouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/channel/UC31j2JGzXaX76pLA2bmGSsgBookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rose-garciaWeb: http://www.rosegarciabooks.com/Newsletter: http://bit.ly/2hfmUCCBuy Link: Universal Link: www.books2read.com/TheFinalLifeSeriesBoxset
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$25 GIVEAWAY - TEAM MOM by Delaney Cameron

 Team Mom by Delaney Cameron Julie’s calm life is thrown a curve ball when her brother arrives the night before his seven-month deployment asking her to take care of his son. As a preschool teacher, she’s used to dealing with toddlers, not nine-year-olds. Noting her nephew’s interest in baseball, Julie signs him up for little league. She’s anything but thrilled to find out that his coach is a celebrity. Eric returned to St Marys to lick his wounds and start over. But even in his hometown, he’s known more for his unfortunate appearance on a reality dating show than for his seven years in the major leagues. All he has to show for that poor decision is an ex-wife and a broken heart. Julie’s obvious disapproval makes her the perfect choice for his team mom. If she doesn’t like him, she won’t cause any problems. But will that be enough to keep his growing interest in her in check? And as Julie’s preconceived notions about sports figures slowly unravel, will she be able to resist the man behind the public persona?   Buy now from AMAZONRead for FREE with Kindle UnlimitedAdd to your Goodreads Shelf Free September 13th & 14th   Eric glanced doubtfully at his fitted shirt and pants. If he’d been going to the couple’s shower alone, he would have settled for comfort and worn jeans. The fact that he’d sought his brother’s opinion on what to wear was an admission of his level of anxiety. Julie had agreed to come with him. Was it wrong to want to look nice for her sake?The jarring sound of the gate buzzer jolted him out of his pensive reverie. After making sure Delilah had fresh water, he grabbed the wrapped box off the table and went out on the porch to wait. Jordan jumped out of the car and sprinted over to where he stood.“Hey, Coach Gibson. I brought some of my Xbox games. I hope that’s okay.”“That’s fine. You can go on in. Matt’s waiting on you.”When Eric looked back in Julie’s direction, the greeting on his lips was forgotten. He swallowed once and then again as he watched her get something out of the backseat. The tiny straps and fitted bodice of her dress left most of her lovely shoulders and neck bare while the wide, flirty skirt hinted at nicely shaped legs.How was he going to behave with her looking like that?“How have you not kissed her yet?” a teasing voice asked from behind him.Did kissing her neck count for anything? Probably not in Matt’s view of the world. “How do you know I haven’t?” he muttered.Matt snorted dismissively. “Because if you had, you wouldn’t be staring at her like a starving man waiting for the buffet to open.”“Would you lower your voice?”Not bothering to take his brother’s advice, Matt continued. “I approve, by the way. She’s just what you need.”“Can we talk about this later?”“Definitely. I want a full report of today’s events.”Eric turned a laugh into a cough. “Get in the house before I throw you in there.”“I’m going, sweet thing.”“So help me, Matt, if you say another word...”The arrival of Julie brought this conversation to an abrupt end.“Hey, guys. Are we ready for this?” she asked with a smile.“I think so,” Eric said.“You kids have fun,” threw in Matt, ignoring his brother’s frown. “Don’t worry about Jordan. We’ll be fine.”“You’ve got my number, right?” asked Julie.“Sure do. See you later.”Eric shook his head as he watched Matt enter the house and close the door. “He gets worse every day. Got everything you need?”“Yes, sir.”He grinned. “In that case, I think we should get going.” Once they were on their way, he glanced in her direction. “You look lovely. You remind me of a summer garden in that dress.”“Thank you. You look like an ad for Ralph Lauren.”“I’ve never seen any. Is that a compliment?”“Definitely.”“Then I thank you, too. I forgot to warn you about Thomas. He’s only slightly more mature than Matt, and neither of them knows the meaning of the word discretion. They speak first and worry about the consequences later.”“I’ve got a brother, remember. I know how these things work. What did you get the happy couple?”“A four-slice toaster. It’s sort of a private joke. That’s what Thomas got me as a wedding gift. I thought I’d return the favor.”“I keep forgetting that you’ve already done this.”Eric wished he could forget. He’d give anything to wipe out the memories of his marriage. “What did you get them?”“Nothing as exciting as a toaster. I got bathroom towels. You can never have enough towels.”Towels were about the only thing Sydney didn’t fight him over. To hear her talk, he would have left her destitute if he could have found a legal way to do it. In the end, he got tired of the endless arguments. What use did he have for all those things they’d bought together? The only memories they carried were bad ones. He was better off without them.“Good idea. As far as the games go, if there’s something you don’t want to do, let me know. I’m all for being a good sport, but not at the expense of making you uncomfortable.”“The same goes for you.”He cast her a teasing glance. “I don’t embarrass easily, and to be honest, I can’t think of a single game I wouldn’t be willing to play with you.”Her eyes fell to her lap. “I’m starting to think you say things just so you can see me blush.”Eric laughed. “You do it so beautifully; I can’t resist.” 
 "Clean romance, but oh, those kisses sizzle. Great interaction between the brothers--they'll make you smile. I would recommend this book and read more by this author."   "I loved this story, it was sweet, clean, and most of all it was just a straight forward book, without conflicts and huge misunderstandings you usually get in a romance book. The slow building romance was a pleasant surprise, too. Little Jordan was so precious, and let's face it....I've always be a sucker when it comes to animals and kids. I loved the playful interaction between the two brothers, Eric and Matt. They were hysterical, without trying to be. Just seemed so natural and real, but so did the relationship between Julie and Eric. I was so impressed that I just downloaded the next book in the series." "Just a lovely story. A heroine you can adore, a hero you can fall for and a love story you can get lost in. Well written. No cheesy catastrophes. Clean and well worth the read." Excerpt:      Author Delaney Cameron I'm a Georgia girl at heart if not by birth. I love to read, watch college football, and spend time with my husband. I'm a hopeless romantic so there will always be a happily ever after in my stories. I also like to write about second chances because love doesn't always work out the first time. My books are sweet romances set in both contemporary and regency settings featuring stories about the journey to love, from that first meeting to the point where two people know their hearts are no longer their own. My characters aren't perfect. They make mistakes and have faults like the rest of us. They learn the sometimes painful truth that the path to love isn't always smooth, but it's a road worth traveling.      Giveaway Details $25 Amazon Gift Code or $25 in PayPal Cash Ends 10/5/18 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.  a Rafflecopter giveaway