Lisa Rayns's Blog, page 29

Rite of Passage Book Blast

Rite of Passage"Descended from a line of powerful witches, Courtney Wellington embodies the Wiccan Goddess who must fulfill an ancient prophecy to keep the growing powers of evil at bay. At the Summer Solstice, she must marry, and she has chosen Robert McGregor for her mate. But Courtney's plans never included falling in love with him. 

Robert McGregor, Harvard Law student and society favorite, has the world within his grasp-until he meets Courtney. Irresistibly drawn to her, Robbie is soon bewitched by the lovely, vulnerable girl, despite his misgivings about who-or what-she really is. But her identity is stranger than he could ever imagine. 

To fulfill the prophecy Robbie must abandon all he holds dear, but when Courtney is kidnapped, he realizes he will sacrifice everything to save her. Can the power of their love triumph over the evil forces bent on destroying them?"





Purchase on Amazon or Book Strand.  

Author Bio: Kevin V. Symmons BioKevin Symmons has been a successful business owner, consultant and fund-raiser. In addition to undergraduate work in business and the arts, he studied at the University of Poitiers in France and the New England Conservatory before completing his Masters Degree. An avid reader, student and author of numerous professional pieces, in recent years he's devoted his energies to novel writing. In collaboration with award-winning screenwriter and playwright Barry Brodsky (of Emerson and Lesley University), one of Kevin's original stories has been transformed into a screenplay titled "Fear on Every Side".

Kevin teaches creative writing at the Massasoit Community College's main campus in Brockton and their satellite locations in Canton and Middleboro, Massachusetts. He's a sought-after public speaker who thoroughly enjoys being one of the small minority of men engaged in romance writing. He is also serving his fourth term as President of the Cape Cod Writers Center. "We're a respected non-profit that currently boasts more than 400 members from all over New England. At CCWC we're passionate about helping writers at every stage of their career," Kevin says, describing their mission.

An active member of the National Writers Union, Romance Writers of America and Mystery Writers of America, he enjoys the resources these professional organizations provide, has been a presenter at their regional conferences and contributor to their magazines. 

His new paranormal romance novel, Rite of Passage, was published by the award-winning Wild Rose Press in late summer 2012 and has garnered dozens of five star reviews. His contemporary romantic thriller, Sanctuary should be released in summer of 2013. He is active on social media and can be found on Facebook, @KevinSymmons on Twitter, his author pages on Amazon and Goodreads or at his website: www.ksymmons.com.

The giveaway consists of a prize pack containing:
$25 Starbucks cardSpecial Author 2013 Calendar1 Book - paperback of RITE OF PASSAGEOpen to US Residents. Fill out the form below to enter

Dark Passing Promo Blast

Dark Passing 
(The Ella Reynolds Series)Mary Nelson’s murder shocked the small town of Jackson. The vibrant, young college student disappeared on her way home. A week later her body was found in the trunk of a burning car. No suspects. No evidence. No case. 

Ella Reynolds’ life had finally turned around. With a new book released, the past safely tucked away, and a burgeoning romance, she begins to live again. Then a plea from a woman whose daughter’s murder remains unsolved ignites Ella’s curiosity—and drags her back into the dark world she fought so desperately to escape. 

Curiosity turns to obsession as Ella inches closer to the truth—and the murderer begins to claim new victims. 

Kindle / Nook / Smashwords 

Follow Liz Schulte Blog / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Newsletter

 Liz Schulte is having a contest for a "Mystery" Themed Basket Must be 18+ US Resident Ends 1/6/13 @ 11:59PM EST

Fill out the form below to Enter
Follow the Tour

Welcome Raebeth McGee

Silenced by RaeBeth McGee

Amber Brown spent her entire existence believing Dave was her father. When her mother reveals this is untrue, she goes through an emotional spiral with depression. It's hard for her to believe her mother had lied to her all this time.

A move to a new home and town causes Amber to be consumed by her "darkness" and reverts to cutting to free herself from her pain.

When Casey, her new friend enters her life, she introduces Amber to parties, drugs, and Amber's new boyfriend Landon. The secret of cutting begins to take affect on Amber as she tries to hide it from her friends and family. In the mist of everything, Amber has the desire to find out who her biological father is.

Follow Amber through her trials of depression and cutting, along with the discovery of love.

Now for the interview...

Welcome Raebeth McGee! Q: Tell me a little bit about yourself. What do you do for fun?

RaeBeth McGee-Buda was born in southwestern Pennsylvania in 1987, the second daughter of Rachel Yost and Arthur Curtis McGee. RaeBeth grew up loving to read and write poetry, as well as short stories. Her childhood dream was to become a teacher. Rae Beth's dream of writing was created in her eleventh grade literature class where writing became her passion.

RaeBeth married in August 2012 to her husband, Gregory Stephen Buda Jr. and resides in a small Pennsylvania town of Fairchance. RaeBeth is a full time mother of one and is expecting her second.

She graduated from American Intercontinental University with her associates in business administration. She enjoys spending her time writing and feels that connecting with readers is her main goal.

RaeBeth published Silenced under her maiden name but plans to continue writing under her married name with any other works.

In my spare time I like to spend time with my family, read, take photos, and help other authors with the promotion of their books.

Q: What do you like most about the genre you write in?

At this time I have several different genre I am writing in. Although my book Silenced is considered YA, I think it falls into more genre’s such as suspense and inspiration. I love being able to use my imagination and creativity to create something out of an idea.

Q: Where is your favorite place to write?

I really don’t have a favorite place to write. Although I am working on a reading/writing nook in my living room. I will have all the author swag that I’ve gathered from other authors displayed as well as all the books I’ve purchased from the authors. This will eventually be my writing area when it’s complete.

Q: What’s your next project?

I’m actually working on two different projects right now. The first is the second part to Silenced called Silenced: The Overtaking. It’s the continuation of Amber’s journey with depression. The second one is a dive into a new genre for me which is paranormal. It’s called Sophie. It’s about witches, wizards, and demons. I’m not going to disclose much on this one seeing how it’s still a surprise but for my fans... there’s definitely more to come for you all.

Q. What made you want to start writing?

I’ve always loved to write. I started by writing poems which I keep to myself. At first it was a healthy way of expressing how I was feeling. Then in high school we had an assignment to write a short story. One day while going through my old boxes, my sister came across Silenced and suggested I added on to it. Therefore for the next five years... I did.

Q. Who's your main audience?

My main audience with the Silenced sequel is young adults to adults that like suspense.

Q. When it comes to writing- what are your strong points? What are your weaknesses?

My strong points for writing is coming up with the idea’s for new stories. Some times my ideas are based on events within my own life or those very close to me. I always ask permission before writing their stories. It seems like the lack of ideas for my books never happen. As for my weaknesses, I do too much at one time. I’m writing several different books, a stay at home mom that’s expecting her second baby, a wife, blogger who tries to help support other authors, and I try to make myself happy in the process of all of this. Therefore, as of lately... I haven’t had much time to write.

Q. What do you think of this term- Writer's Block? How do you overcome it?

Writers block has happened to me. I overcame it by stepping away from the project until the characters were willing to work with me. Usually it’s for a few days but I’ve seen it happen and take several months to get back into.

Q. How many books have you written?

At this time I have one completely written.

Q. How many are published?

One. As of next year. 2013

Q. Are you self published or traditionally published?

I’m self published and wouldn’t change it for the word. I love having control of my works and being able to do what I want with them.

Q. What type of books do you enjoy reading?

I like all types of fiction. Although I prefer reading paranormal.

Q: How do you feel about Dr. Pepper? 

I drink it on an occasion but I’d prefer drinking Mt. Dew over Dr. Pepper. (Sorry, LOL)

Welcome Lilly Gayle

Helpless Hearts

Can a former gunslinger find redemption through love?

Former gunslinger Noah Sinclair returned home so he could regain his respectability. Instead of redemption, he finds temptation in Juliana Jeffries—a woman engaged to the man who offered him a job and a second chance. Despite Noah's loyalty to his boss, Noah's Helpless Heart still yearns for Juliana—a woman with dreams and ambitions that don’t include a former gunslinger.

Noah stole Juliana's heart years ago, but then he left town to avenge his father’s death. Now, she dreams of becoming a doctor and she’s obliged to marry Avery, a man with a secret she’s sworn to protect. Noah’s return could test her loyalty, her ambition, and her heart.




Only $1.99 at Amazon / B & N / Smashwords
Goodreads Book Giveaway
Author Website / Blog / Facebook / Goodreads
Read Excerpt

Now for the interview...
Welcome Lilly Gayle!


Q: Tell me a little bit about yourself. What do you do for fun?
I find writing fun. Guess that's a good thing, but not very sociable. I also enjoy reading when I find the time…again, not very sociable of me. I love the beach. My husband and I have a camper near Emerald Isle, NC and we go as often as possible. And I love dining out and spending time with friends and family. Sadly, the older I get, the fewer "couple" friends my husband and I seem to share. Most of the friends we used to hang out with who were a couple are now divorced or one or both are dead or crazy. So, now it seems I have my friends and my husband has his. Sometimes, I miss the old days, but I've never attempted to contact the dead.
Hehe. That’s good! It could get spooky J Q: What do you like most about the genre you write in?
I've always loved history and I love historical research. And I adore westerns and civil war movies. I guess that's why I write historicals set during the Victorian era rather than the more popular Regency period. I also write paranormals because I get to make up my own rules and create my own worlds.
I like that too. Q: Where is your favorite place to write?
In my office early in the morning, late at night, or on Fridays when I have the house all to myself. I have trouble writing when other people are in the house. Background noise especially from the television distracts me. Recently, I started using one of those electronic devises that play white noise. I set it to the sounds of the ocean and I can now write even when the TV is on in the next room.
Q: What’s your next project?
I'm currently working on three projects. I just finished my second round of edits for Embrace the Darkness, the sequel to m y 2010 paranormal romance, Out of the Darkness. I'm also working on two WIP's. Tarnished Angel is the sequel to my 2011 historical romance, Slightly Tarnished and I'm also working on a third book in my "Darkness" series. I'm tentatively calling it, Daylight and Darkness.
Now for the most important question…
Q: How do you feel about Dr. Pepper?
Lol! I used to love it. My husband worked for Pepsi for 21 years. In some areas of NC, Pepsi was the distributor for Dr. Pepper so we used to keep both products on hand for family gatherings.  Then in 2007, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent two lumpectomies, a lymph node biopsy, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. As of this month, I am now a five year survivor. Woo-hoo! But for some strange reason, ever since the chemo, I've been unable to tolerate the taste of ANY carbonated beverage. It tastes like acid in my mouth, eroding the enamel from my teeth. Maybe it has something to do with the odd dreams I had while undergoing chemo. I'd frequently dream that all my teeth fell out. And maybe that had something to do with losing my hair? I don't know, but I haven't been able to drink sodas since. And sometimes, I miss it.
Congrats on being a survivor! I would sure miss Dr. Pepper.
Now for the giveaway... 
Lilly has graciously offered a copy of her novel to one visitor in your choice of mobi, epub, or print. Contest will run until midnight on the 10th.

Just leave a comment along with your email and answer this question: What's your favorite Western? 

Naturally, Charlie and A Political Affair Book Tour

A Political AffairA Political Affair isn’t Fifty Shades of Red, White, and Blue, but it is a love story with spice and political intrigue. Stephen McEvoy never expected to fill his father’s U.S. Senate seat at such a young age—or to fight to keep it. When clever Anne Norwood interns in his office, Stephen dismisses her as another pretty face—until her independent streak catches his attention. They’re both too smart to fall for one another, yet they do. During a tough election, their relationship is an impossible political gamble. Campaigns—like love—are either won or lost.

Follow Mary Goodreads / Website / Twitter / Facebook

Purchase on Amazon / Paperback from Publisher

Even before she graduated from law school, Mary knew she wasn’t cut out to be a real lawyer. Drawn to politics, she’s spent her career as an organizer, lobbyist, and nonprofit executive. Nothing piques her interest more than a good political scandal or romance, and when she stumbled upon writing, she put the two together. A born Midwesterner, naturalized Texan, and transient resident of Washington, D.C., Mary now lives in Northern California.



Naturally, CharlieTwenty-five year old Charlotte “Charlie” Barrow is caught between her old life, and the one she is beginning to build, when she crosses paths with a handsome stranger on the subway. Not looking for romance, she closes her heart off to the possibilities of love. With a knack for mishaps, Charlie maintains her sense of humor while befriending the kind stranger who seems to be there at all the right times. 

New York freelance writer, Charlie Adams, is forging his own path beyond the expectations of the society circles of his childhood. Rejecting family money, and fast-lane friends, he is snubbed by his family as he follows his own compass to a life more extraordinary. 

Through a coincidence of events, they come to rely on each other for comfort. This is the tale of two Charlies learning to trust again while fighting their fates to create their own destiny.  

Follow S.L. Scott Facebook / Twitter / Blog

Purchase Kindle / Nook / Paperback / itunes / Paperback from Publisher

S.L. Scott is a former high-tech account manager with a journalism degree pursuing her passion for telling stories. She spends her days escaping into her characters and letting them lead her on their adventures. Live music shows, harvesting jalapenos and eating homemade guacamole are her obsessions she calls hobbies. Scott lives in the beautiful Texas Hill Country of Austin with her husband, two young sons, two Papillons and a bowl full of Sea Monkeys.

These wonderful authors are giving away a Kindle ($75 GC) for their BLAST!
It starts December 4th and ends December 23rd. To enter, fill out the form below.

Jessica Free Day

Wilbur was used to going to his college formals alone. He thought the Halloween Ball would be no different. He’s amazed when a beautiful girl in a Victorian costume displays an interest in him and even more amazed to find himself alone with her on one of the campus nature trails. What Wilbur doesn’t realize is that another woman has her eye on him too. The White Lady returns every Halloween to take revenge on the men of the campus for her brutal murder. She has chosen Wilbur as her next victim. Get it on Amazon HERE Read the reviews! 1. http://mommyreadstoomuch.com  2. http://takingtimeformommy.com  3. http://amandablogs.com  4. http://yummybookalciousbabes.blogspot.com  5.http://coziecorner.blogspot.com  6. http://2ndbooktotheright.blogspot.com  7. http://stressedrach.co.uk  8. http://www.ohchrys.blogspot.com  9. http://museunleashed.com  10. http://momzunas.blogspot.com/  11. http://mamivalsbooks.blogspot.com  12. http://bunnysreview.com  13. http://andisbookreviews.blogspot.com  14. http://www.shereallysaidit.wordpress.com/  15. http://craftymomof3.com/  16. http://www.shereallysaidit.wordpress.com

Love's Debt Review

To keep herself from the depths of poverty, Milly Shepherd needs to be appointed manager of the Red Lion Tavern. The elderly owner is in failing health and has promised her the job permanently if no one more suitable applies. Milly will fight with her entire being to make the job her own.

Joseph Jacobs needs to supplement his income to pay off his father's creditors and save him from debtor's prison. Though the job as manager of the local tavern looks promising, Milly is favored by both the owner and customers. Instead, Joseph swallows his pride and agrees to tend bar.

As they work together, their attraction grows, their goals cross, and both Millie and Joseph find they must face their fears --the question is whether they face them alone or together?

Purchase ($2.99) Amazon / B&N / The Wild Rose Press
Author Website
My review...
Love's Debt by Rachel Brimble
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sweet!
This beautifully crafted historical romance is a perfect way to spend an afternoon. The characters are wonderful, enduring, and the problems they face are nearly as relevant in today’s society as they were back then. It’s very well-written, compelling, and most of all, sweet. I truly enjoyed it!
I won this book in a contest.


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Max Under the Stars Review

A writer is born...and his name is Max. Follow Max on his lifelong quest to produce the perfect novel. Touching, irreverent, hilarious and sad.

please note: This is a SHORT STORY consisting of 2,500 words.

Purchase ($.99) Amazon 
Author Website
My review...
Max Under the Stars by Theresa Weir
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read this short story months ago and I really liked it. Since then, I’ve thought about it many times and even recommended it to friends. So, I guess it’s been influential and stuck with me. That’s pretty amazing for a 2500 word story. I couldn’t resist writing a review when I ran across the book again. Excellent and thought-provoking.

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Fifty Shades of Silver Hair and Socks Review

When old fart blogger Mormon Silver goes to interview young entrepreneur Bea Plastique, he encounters a woman who is stunning, smart, and scary. The unsophisticated, horny Silver is startled to realize he wants this woman (from behind, mostly) and, despite her mysterious love of ice hockey, finds he is desperate to get close to her (and honk her boobies). Unable to resist Silver's oral skills, silver chin fur, and argyle socks, Plastique admits she wants him, too--but on her own terms.

Stunned yet delighted by Plastique's kinkiness, Silver hesitates. For all of her success--her multinational assortment of lubricants, her gay assistant, her condo on a high floor (I mean, really high--you're almost above the clouds, for Christ's sake)--Plastique is a woman haunted by her past and consumed by the need to have hockey-related sex. When the couple embarks on a bold, twisted physical affair, Mormon discovers Bea Plastique's secrets (including a naughty uncle) and explores his own icky, sticky desires.

Silly, sexy, and deeply disturbing, Fifty Shades of Silver Hair and Socks is a tale that will make you horny, tickle you, and give you some great ideas to try on an unsuspecting lover.


Purchase ($2.99) Amazon
Author Website
My review...
Fifty Shades of Silver Hair and Socks by Phil Torcivia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story was light, funny, and held surprises on every page. I’ve never read “Fifty Shades of Grey.” I’m sure it would have been funnier as a parody if I had, but even without comparing it to anything, I still enjoyed the ride.

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Like Clockwork & A Tangled Mind Review

A trio of exciting short stories about the supernatural.

A Great Man - Charlie wakes up in an old, country inn with a girl who doesn't seem to want him to leave.

Amy - a zombie love story.

Mischief in Reau Garden - Child witches discover the consequences of resurrecting dead things.

Purchase (Free) Amazon / B&N / Smashwords
Author Website
My review...
Like Clockwork and a Tangled Mind by Lea Ryan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Entertaining, well-written, and exciting. I was very impressed by these short stories. They’re all suspenseful with just the right amount of detail. Great little reads.

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