Karen Docter's Blog, page 164

Karen’s Killer Fixin’s #Recipe: Brown Sugar Devil’s Food Cake w/Fudge Frosting

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It’s time for Karen’s Killer Fixin’s! Over the years, I’ve filled two 4-inch, 3-ring binders with my own creations as well as recipes my family and friends were willing to share with me. I simply love to cook and want to share that love with my readers. So every Friday, I share one recipe I think you and your family might enjoy. It might be a main course recipe. A cookie or baked item. Candy. Salads. Whatever strikes my eye and fancy…which today is BROWN SUGAR DEVIL’S FOOD CAKE W/FUDGE FROSTING!

Today is Double Recipe Day! Can’t share a cake recipe without including the special frosting that makes the cake even more delicious. If you’re a Devil’s Food Cake lover, you’ll enjoy this one. The fudge frosting is great on a number of cakes. Try it on banana cupcakes or peanut butter cake to name only two kinds of cake. Wow!  

I hope you enjoy today’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy eating!

Karen

P.S. We’re at 356 recipes and counting with this posting. Hope you find some recipes you like. If this is your first visit, please check out past blogs for more Killer Fixin’s. In the right hand column menu, you can even look up past recipes by type. i.e. Desserts, Breads, Beef, Chicken, Soups, Author Specials, etc.

BROWN SUGAR DEVIL’S FOOD CAKE

[Serves 12]

2 ½ cups flour

½ cup hot water

½ cup cocoa powder

1 tsp. vanilla

2 eggs

2 tsp. baking soda

2 cups brown sugar

½ tsp. baking powder

FUDGE ICING

1 ½ cups sour cream

Cocoa Whipped Cream (optional)

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. Sift flour, cocoa, baking soda, and baking powder into bowl. Combine sour cream, water and vanilla in second bowl. Beat eggs and brown sugar in large bowl until smooth.

On low speed, alternately beat in flour and cream mixtures in 3 additions, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Divide among three pans. Bake 25-30 minutes. Cool in pans on rack 10 minutes. Remove from pans to cool completely. Sandwich together layers with 1/2 Fudge Icing between layers. Frost sides and top. Pipe whipped cream on cake as border.

Happy Eating!

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: CRIMSON ENIGMA, Enigma Series Book 1 by Mark Shaffer

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[image error]KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

~~

[image error]CRIMSON ENIGMA

Enigma Series Book 1

BY MARK SHAFFER

Blurb

Come aboard the new “Freedom III” Space Station for out of this world adventure! Once there you join up with the Agents of ISIS as they uncover the what and why of the problems that are plaguing the Station during its opening ceremonies and afterwards. By the time the first Agents arrive on the sceen there has already been sabotage and mysterious murders. Help the members of the Space Station Investigations Bureau save the Freedom III Station, and the Earth!

~~~

[image error]CRIMSON ENIGMA

Enigma Series Book 1

BY MARK SHAFFER

The story opens with two Agents from ISIS Space Station Security investigating malfunctions and possible sabotage at the United Space Agency’s newest orbital complex, The Freedom III Space Station.   The investigators spend about an hour doing a routine safety check of the outer hull area. The Agents think they may have found something so they head back inside the station to check their findings with the lab. Moving into the clean room just inside the pressure hatch they begin to remove their space suits and stow their testing equipment.

As they remove their protective helmets the air lock of the sealed room explodes. Their environment was being sucked out into the emptiness of space and they could do nothing to stop it. It was all the two Agents from ISIS could do to not be swept away with their air and anything else that was not nailed down.

They tried to hang on to the contours and projections on the wall but they both knew what the out come would be. As painful as it was Christine Walters could not help watching her partner and friend as he was wrenched from the once safe confines of the Station out into the vacuum of space. There was very little that she could do for him as he floated farther and farther away. Eventually Agent Walters strength ebbed away and she resigned herself to the same fate as her partner and released her hold on the Station. She thought of Mitch Hawkins, a dear friend of hers, and the words left unsaid as she drifted away from the Freedom III Station.

For her there was only darkness…

[image error]Meet Author Mark Shaffer…

I grew up in a little town in Northeastern Ohio called Alliance. I have lived in different cities in Ohio, but I always came back to my home town, where I currently reside.

I always enjoyed reading Science Fiction, so with my active imagination I thought I would try it. I am inspired by different locations, pictures, People and music. I am especially inspired by Al Stewart. The song “Running Man” helped me to work on my new book “Mystery by the Bay.” Also on this project I am working with Author and Editor Nancy Medina, who I became friends with on Facebook.

The book Crimson Enigma is a much longer book with sketches in it to help explain the story. The inspiration for it came more from people and music from the 70’s. Also there is a lot of me in all the characters that I create.

The artwork for the book was created by a Canadian Artist friend of mine named Angele Gougeon. She did all the Artwork for Crimson Enigma.

When I am not writing I enjoy photography and Crash and Bash model building.

I like to listen to music when I write. Over the years it has given me some of my best ideas. Al Stewart of course. And YES, ELP, Kansas and Doobies to name a few.

As for future projects, I am going to rewrite a short story I called Transference to make it longer and add artwork to it as well. Also working on two other books in the Enigma Series- Mystery by the Bay and Megastar.

~~~

Links to Mark’s website, blog, books, etc.

Crimson Enigma is available through Lulu.com, Amazon.com or I can get it for you at a special price. Markus31155@gmail.com also at https://www.facebook.com/groups/MarksBookshelf

~~~

[image error]**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY: Mark is giving away a free copy of his next book to one reader who can guess the “Links” to the other books in the Enigma Series. Leave your guesses in comments on his Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog.

Thanks, Mark, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: DEMON RISING by DeAnna Browne

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[image error]KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

~~

[image error]DEMON RISING

BY DeANNA BROWNE

Blurb

Some sacrifices cost more than death…

Thirty years ago, dark magicians unleashed new power on the earth fueled by demons. Governments toppled, millions died and magicians ended up on top of the food chain.

Twenty-four-year-old Becca survives these dangerous times by relying on her wits, her fists, and the limited goodwill of her boss, a local crime lord. When news comes of a fire back home and the family she left behind dead, she realizes her dark past has finally caught up to her.

On the hunt for her missing sister, she must rely on Darion, a treacherous ex-boyfriend with ties to the local coven for back-up. Problem is he’s a pyromancer that can’t be trusted, especially with her heart. Becca’s forced to navigate a dangerous web of deceit and must decide what she’s willing to sacrifice to save her sister.

What Reviewers Are Saying…

“An enthralling new voice gives us a magical world where love leads to dark decisions.” ~ Jami Gray, award winning author  

“…extremely well written, filled with wonderful characters, strange happenings, and face paced action. I, for one, found it very hard to put down. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.”   ~Taylor Jones, reviewer

“…well written with a solid, well-thought-out plot, plenty of surprises, and great characters. Fast-paced and compelling, it will keep you on your toes all the way through.” ~ Regan Murphy

~~~

[image error]DEMON RISING

BY DeANNA BROWNE

Excerpt

“You killed them.” It didn’t matter if he threw the match or not, he let this happen. “Your kind killed them all.”

“I didn’t start the fires. I tried to save them.”

She laughed, a sick cackle. It sounded as if she was losing her mind. Maybe she was. “And I’m supposed to believe you. Tied to this bed.”

“You took off, abandoning your family. I couldn’t take that chance. I can’t have you roaming free here, until you remove your Hand of Mary tattoo. Then I can ensure your safety.”

“My safety?” She thought he had to be high or something. “You have a Soultorn here. You’re a wizard. You’re not concerned about my safety.”

“I looked for you for over a year. However my sister chose to raise you, wizards are not the problem. They’re the solution to what ails mankind.”

She glared at him. He couldn’t be serious. Her family was dead, and he really thought she was going to side with him. Her nails dug into her palms, and she ached to claw herself out of this room.

“He’s here,” the Soultorn said in a deep voice.

Jeremiah nodded to the demon. The door opened and someone entered.

“I don’t like to be kept waiting,” Jeremiah scolded and went to the door.

“I came as soon as I could,” the man replied.

Her stomach dropped. The familiar voice struck Becca like a cold glass of water. She whipped her head to the side. It was Darion.

She’d been looking for him, hoping he could provide a clue to what happened to her family. Now he stood in her uncle’s house a black bag under one arm. Whatever Darion claimed when they were dating, he obviously worked with the devil himself.

[image error]Meet Author DeAnna Browne…

DeAnna Browne graduated from Arizona State University with her BS in Psychology. She finds it helps to corral those voices in her mind and put them to paper. Her debut novel, A DEMON RISING, came out in August 2017 with Black Opal Books and book two in the series, UNHOLY SUNDERING, is due out 2018. An avid reader and writer, she has a soft spot for fantasy with a touch of romance. Despite her love for food and traveling, she always finds her way back to Phoenix, Arizona with her husband, children, and pet dog.

~~~

Links to DeAnna’s website, blog, books, etc.

Website:  www.deannabrowne.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/deannabrownebooks/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/BrowneBooks

Amazon Author Page:

https://www.amazon.com/author/deannabrowne

Amazon.com: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074K92P92

Barnes and Noble: 

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/demon-rising-deanna-browne/1126957944?ean=9781626947238

iTunes: 

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/demon-rising/id1271504395?ls=1&mt=11 

~~~

[image error]**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY: DeAnna is conducting a giveaway exclusively for Karen’s Killer Book Bench readers for DEMON RISING. All you have to do is sign up for her newsletter, that will keep you up to date on new releases from the world of DeAnna Browne, and she’ll pick a lucky winner at random for a free e-book. It’s easy.

Click the link below to sign up, and DeAnna will announce the winner on Saturday, January 20th. 

CLICK HERE TO ENTER TO WIN DEMON RISING

You can also access her newsletter HERE:

http://wordpress.us9.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=02a1aa395d1695e7d0835b61e&id=9fd758ad1f

Thanks, DeAnna, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: THE LINKING RINGS (An Eli Marks Mystery Book 4) by John Gaspard

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 [image error]KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

~~

THE LINKING RINGS

An Eli Marks Mystery Book 4

BY JOHN GASPARD

Blurb

Eli’s trip to London with his Uncle Harry quickly turns homicidal when the older magician finds himself accused of murder. A second slaying does little to take the spotlight off Harry, instead making it clear that someone is knocking off Harry’s elderly peers in bizarrely effective ways. But who? The tale takes an odd twist when the prime suspect appears to be a bitter performer with a grudge … who committed suicide over thirty years before.

While Eli struggles to prove his uncle’s innocence–and keep them both alive–he finds himself embroiled in a battle of his own: A favorite magic routine of his has been ripped off by another, hugely-popular magician.

What began as a whirlwind vacation to London with girlfriend Megan turns into a fatal and larcenous trip into the dark heart of magic within the city’s oldest magic society, The Magic Circle.

~~~

[image error]THE LINKING RINGS

An Eli Marks Mystery Book 4

BY JOHN GASPARD

Excerpt

Chapter One

There were many attractions I had hoped to see on my first visit to London. The inner workings of the city’s jail system had not been one of them.

Especially on day one.

When planning the trip, I had assumed my biggest concern would be jet lag. I was wrong. While it proved to be a real issue, it came in at a distant second to raising bail.

At the moment, though, jet lag was all I had on my mind as I suppressed yet another yawn. Coming to The Magic Circle directly from the airport had been Harry’s idea, because his plan was to spend as little time in London as possible. Consequently, all I had seen of the city so far had been the interior of Heathrow airport, some blurry views of a rainy metropolis from within a careening cab, and now the second floor meeting room of the venerable magician’s club, The Magic Circle, located somewhere in the mysterious heart of London.

“Every time you yawn, you make me yawn,” Harry growled in a poor imitation of a stage whisper.

“I’ve noticed that,” I said, doing a considerably better job of keeping my voice down. “It’s kind of cool.”

“Easy for you to say,” he said. “You don’t have to go on stage in forty-five minutes.”

That was true. My role for the evening’s gala event was strictly that of an observer. Harry’s responsibilities were far more substantial, and he leaned forward to listen closely to the instructions that were being given to him and the evening’s other performer by the club’s Executive Director.

The room was beginning to fill with magicians, and Harry and his soon-to-be stage partner were at the top of that particular food chain. The reactions they were getting exemplified an odd phenomenon I’ve experienced through a life spent observing my magician uncle: while in the presence of normal people—that is to say, non-magicians—Harry was looked upon as your run-of-the-mill cranky and charming old man.

But let him walk into a room full of magicians, and it’s as if the Dali Lama has just arrived. He was, as he liked to put it, an occasional rock star.

Although at this moment, he was one of about a half-dozen Dali Lamas in the room. It was a virtual Who’s Who of magicians of a certain age. But right now my focus was on the two who were about to go on stage.

I turned and looked at the other magician, a man I had never met. Of course, I had certainly heard of Oskar Korhonen. He was a highly skilled magician from Finland who was world-renowned for his dexterity with a deck of cards. Such dexterity was all the more astonishing because Oskar was missing his left arm. A childhood accident had appeared to doom his dream of making a living as a magician, but his perseverance had clearly paid off. His one-handed shuffle was a thing of beauty, made all the more poignant in terms of card shuffling because it was really his only option.

He stood next to Harry on slightly wobbly legs, wearing his customary red checkered plaid tuxedo, a fashion statement that made him instantly recognizable within the magician world and certainly a curiosity outside of it.

“Mitä?“ he asked, leaning forward to hear better, as the multiple conversations in the room were starting to build to something just this side of a din.

“Why don’t we move this conversation into the theater?” the Executive Director suggested loudly, recognizing the room was only going to get noisier. He gestured toward the door, and the two older magicians made their way through the room, the growing crowd parting respectfully to let them pass. When they reached the doorway, Harry stopped, bowed slightly, and motioned to his fellow magician.

“After you, doctor,” Harry said with a wide smile.

“No, no, doctor, after you,” Oskar replied in his charming Finnish accent. Harry finally acquiesced and went first, followed by Oskar, who gave him a warm pat on the back.

I was puzzled by the exchange, as I knew for a fact Harry wasn’t a doctor in any sense of the term, and I had never heard of Oskar Korhonen being referred to in this manner. I made a mental note to ask Harry about it later. Since I was now alone in a crowded room of strangers, I turned to my traditional method for dealing with new people: I ignored them all.

Instead, I began to investigate the display cases lining a far wall. As it turned out, it was to be the first—and least deadly—of a number of investigations I’d be taking part in that week.

[image error] Meet Author John Gaspard…

In real life, John’s not a magician, but he has directed eight low-budget features that cost very little and made even less – that’s no small trick. He’s also written four books on the subject of low-budget filmmaking. Ironically, they’ve made more than the films. His blog, “Fast, Cheap Movie Thoughts” has been named “One of the 50 Best Blogs for Moviemakers” and “One of The 100 Best Blogs For Film and Theater Students.” He’s also written for television, radio and the stage. John shares his home with his lovely wife, two greyhounds, a few cats and a handful of pet allergies.

~~~

Links to John’s website, blog, books, etc.

Amazon:  http://amzn.to/2EzqZLv

Social media links:

Facebook:  www.facebook.com/JohnGaspardAuthorPage

Twitter: https://twitter.com/johngaspard

~~~

[image error]**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY: John is giving away an Audible copy of one of the first three Eli Marks books, THE AMBITIOUS CARD, THE BULLET CATCH, or THE MISER’S DREAM (winner’s choice) to one lucky reader who comments on his Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog.

Thanks, John, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

**Author Peek** Interview with DEMON RISING Author, DeAnna Browne

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**Author Peek** Interview with DeAnna Browne

DEMON RISING

[image error]DEMON RISING

BY DeANNA BROWNE

Blurb

Some sacrifices cost more than death…

Thirty years ago, dark magicians unleashed new power on the earth fueled by demons. Governments toppled, millions died and magicians ended up on top of the food chain.

Twenty-four-year-old Becca survives these dangerous times by relying on her wits, her fists, and the limited goodwill of her boss, a local crime lord. When news comes of a fire back home and the family she left behind dead, she realizes her dark past has finally caught up to her.

On the hunt for her missing sister, she must rely on Darion, a treacherous ex-boyfriend with ties to the local coven for back-up. Problem is he’s a pyromancer that can’t be trusted, especially with her heart. Becca’s forced to navigate a dangerous web of deceit and must decide what she’s willing to sacrifice to save her sister.

[image error]INTRODUCING…DeAnna Browne .

1. How did you get started writing?

I’ve loved writing poems and short stories since I was young. After I had my first child, I stayed home with her and my imagination took off. I wrote her songs and stories, and soon discovered I found my passion.

2.  What genre(s) do you write in and why?

I write in several genres, but mainly science-fiction and fantasy. I love the idea of “what if”. What if magic was real? Or I accidentally adopted a child who turned into a dragon? The ideas keep the wheels turning long into the night.

3.  What do you think about when you’re alone in your car?

I’m notorious for day dreaming and plotting in the car. I drive a lot and end up constantly thinking about my characters. I usually snap back to reality a couple miles past my turn.

4.  What is your favorite part of writing?

Creating characters.

5.  What is your least favorite part of writing?

Editing.

6.  Pick two celebrities to be your parents. Who would they be and why?

Will Smith and Amy Poehler because they seem like a lot of fun and I love to laugh.

7.  Where do you get the ideas for your stories?

Usually from everyday life. I fixate on a question or idea, and then I play with it until it grows into something bigger.

8.  Tell me about your ideal reader .

Someone who gets lost in the story and enjoys reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

9.  What is your “go to” routine that helps you get in the mood to write? Special beverage? Music? Etc.

I turn on Pandora. The station varies depending on my mood, but Florence and the Machine is go-to. Then, I grab a cup of Crio Bru. It’s roasted cocoa beans you brew like coffee. I’m in love with it. That’s my perfect writing setup.

10. Tell us about your next book & when is it being published?

Book two in my series, Unholy Sundering, comes out in the Fall 2018 with Black Opal Books. I also have a new YA sci-fi, HOOKED that should be coming out in 2018.

~~~

Links to DeAnna’s website, blog, books, etc.

Website:  www.deannabrowne.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/deannabrownebooks/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/BrowneBooks

Amazon Author Page:

https://www.amazon.com/author/deannabrowne

Amazon.com: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074K92P92

Barnes and Noble: 

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/demon-rising-deanna-browne/1126957944?ean=9781626947238

iTunes: 

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/demon-rising/id1271504395?ls=1&mt=11

~~~

Be sure to come back to read more about DEMON RISING, including an excerpt, on Wednesday’s Karen’s Killer Book Bench!

~~~

[image error]**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY: DeAnna is conducting a giveaway exclusively for Karen’s Killer Book Bench readers for DEMON RISING. All you have to do is sign up for her newsletter, that will keep you up to date on new releases from the world of DeAnna Browne, and she’ll pick a lucky winner at random for a free e-book. It’s easy.

Click the link below to sign up, and DeAnna will announce the winner on Saturday, January 20th. 

CLICK HERE TO ENTER TO WIN DEMON RISING

You can also access her newsletter HERE:

http://wordpress.us9.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=02a1aa395d1695e7d0835b61e&id=9fd758ad1f

Thanks, DeAnna, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Fixin’s ** Author Special** with HER RODEO MASTERS (Pleasure Island Book 9) by Anya Summers #recipe ~ Chrissy Teigen’s ‘Cravings’: John’s Chili

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[image error]Karen’s Killer Fixin’s

**AUTHOR SPECIAL**

with Anya Summers!

Welcome to my Friday bonus feature called Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special**!! Today, in lieu of one of my own recipes, I’m going to introduce you to a new author who will share one of her favorite recipes. Not only will you and I occasionally learn how to make something new and delicious, but we’ll get a chance to check out some wonderful authors. Introducing author, ANYA SUMMERS, and her favorite recipe for CHRISSY TEIGEN’S ‘CRAVINGS’: JOHN’S CHILI! 

~~~

HER RODEO MASTERS

Pleasure Island Book 9

BY ANYA SUMMERS

BLURB

Ivy Phillips is on a mission. She’s an investigative reporter for the Pasadena Tribune, and is hoping to write the story of the century by infiltrating Pleasure Island claiming to be a submissive. Except, when she gets there, she inadvertently finds herself auctioned off for charity and now has two hunky cowboys who want to own her body and soul.

Dax Johnson and Nate Banks have been a rodeo team – and lovers – for years. But they’ve yearned to add a sweet submissive to their union. When they meet Ivy, Dax knows she is the one for them, and the duo set out on a seductive campaign to win Ivy’s affection.

But when the truth is revealed, will their newfound relationship survive? Or will the two cowboys ride off into the sunset without her?

Publisher’s Note: This is the ninth – and final – instalment of Anya Summers’ bestselling Pleasure Island series. While we recommend all the books, it can be enjoyed on its own.

~~~

[image error]HER RODEO MASTERS

Pleasure Island Book 9

BY ANYA SUMMERS

EXCERPT

“The bull pen meeting is about to start. You planning to attend?” Kevin Donnelly asked, looking every inch like he’d just stepped off the pages of Vogue magazine. He had movie star good looks, and fashionably cut, beach blond hair. He was wearing the latest skinny jeans and a hipster dress shirt in a silver gray. It was too bad the five foot seven, moderately buff and toned man was gay. Otherwise they’d be perfect for each other.

“Yeah, just give me a minute,” Ivy replied, refolding the paper in her hands. She shoved the letter and envelope into her massive tan leather shoulder bag that was essentially her life. There was room enough for her iPad, her makeup, tampons, condoms—although she hadn’t needed any of those in a while—wallet, keys, even a small yappy dog if she were so inclined. She carried everything in it. You name it, she carried it with her. Which worked out well for Ivy since she always seemed to be on the move.

“So, how did the other night go? You never mentioned your date, and I live to hear about my co-workers’ love lives,” Kevin simpered, giving her his full attention. This was one of the reasons Ivy loved him. The man was a consummate flirt, and knew just how to get a girl to spill all her secrets. How many times over the years had they done yoga and brunch on Sundays, where he would magically get her to tell him all her troubles? They were the best therapy sessions in the world.

“You and Chad are still not talking to one another, I take it,” she replied.

Kevin put his hands on his hips and did the gay male equivalent of tossing his hair back. “Please, honey, the man wishes he still had me. Nope, I’m moving on and into the market. Which means I don’t currently have a sex life and must live vicariously through you. So, no deflecting. I want all the juicy tidbits.”

She removed her iPad from her bag and said, “Yeah, well, good luck with that.”

“So the date the other night was a no go?” Kevin asked, his light ice blue eyes twinkling with interest.

“It’s fair to say I left as early as I could. When the crying started, there was really no point to saving the night,” she said. And wasn’t that just the kicker. Every single date she’d been on over the last eight months had been an absolute dud. She was in a relationship—just with her vibrator and her favorite Chardonnay.

“You cried?” Kevin asked aghast, a hand against his chest and his eyes wide with horror at her perceived faux pas.

“Nope. My date did. Going on and on about his ex. Clearly the guy wasn’t ready to get back out into the meat market. After listening for two hours about how much he loved Kelli with an ‘i,’ I was done,” she replied.

[image error] Meet Author Anya Summers…

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Anya grew up listening to Cardinals baseball and reading anything she could get her hands on. She remembers her mother saying if only she would read the right type of books instead binging her way through the romance aisles at the bookstore, she’d have been a doctor. While Anya never did get that doctorate, she graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-St. Louis with an M.A. in History.

Anya is a bestselling and award-winning author published in multiple fiction genres. She also writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance under the name Maggie Mae Gallagher. A total geek at her core, when she is not writing, she adores attending the latest comic con or spending time with her family. She currently lives in the Midwest with her two furry felines.

Don’t miss these exciting titles by Anya Summers and Blushing Books!

Dungeon Fantasy Club Series

Her Highland Master, Book 1

To Master and Defend, Book 2

Two Doms for Kara, Book 3

His Driven Domme, Book 4

Her Country Master, Book 5

Love Me, Master Me, Book 6

Submit To Me, Book 7

Her Wired Dom, Book 8

Pleasure Island Series

Her Master & Commander, Book 1

Her Music Masters, Book 2

Their Shy Submissive, Book 3

Her Lawful Master, Book 4

Her Rockstar Dom, Book 5

Duets & Dominance, Book 6

Her Undercover Dom, Book 7

Ménage In Paradise, Book 8

Her Rodeo Masters, Book 9

Cuffs & Spurs Series

His Scandalous Love releasing March 8, 2018

His Wicked Love releasing May 8, 2018

His Untamed Love releasing July 9, 2018

His Tempting Love releasing September 6, 2018

His Seductive Love releasing November 8, 2018

His Secret Love releasing January 8, 2019

His Cherished Love releasing March 8, 2019

Links to Anya’s website, blog, books, etc.

Amazon: https://goo.gl/HDZw6v

Website: www.anyasummers.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AnyaSummersAuthor

Twitter: @AnyaBSummers

Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15183606.Anya_Summers

Sign-up for Anya Summers Newsletter

Amazon Author Page

https://www.amazon.com/Anya-Summers/e/B01EGTVRKC/

Bookbub

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/anya-summers

  Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/anyasummersauthor/

I hope you enjoy the recipe Anya is sharing today on Karen’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy Eating!

Karen

P.S. We’re at 354 recipes and counting with this posting. Hope you find some recipes you like. If this is your first visit, please check out past blogs for more Killer Fixin’s. In the right hand column menu, you can even look up past recipes by type. i.e. Desserts, Breads, Beef, Chicken, Soups, Author Specials, etc.

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NOTE FROM ANYA: What I love about winter are all the fun, yummy soups and stews you can make. Because let’s face it, nothing says warm me up like a delicious steaming bowl soup. One of my favorites during the winter time is chili. There are so many ways to make chili. This recipe from John Legend and Chrissy Teigen happens to be one of my favorites.

CHRISSY TEIGEN’S ‘CRAVINGS’: JOHN’S CHILI

From the kitchen of Chrissy Teigen

[Servings 6-8]

Difficulty: Easy

Cook Time: 30-60 min

Model Chrissy Teigen shares her love of cooking in her bestselling cookbook, “Cravings: Recipes for All the Food You Want to Eat.” Try this recipe from Teigen — named for her husband, singer John Legend — at your next meal!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 cup chopped mushrooms
2 tablespoons seasoning salt, such as Lawry’s
3 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans, drained
2 tablespoons light brown sugar

· Cooking Directions

Heat a large pot over medium heat. When hot, add the ground beef, onion, mushrooms, seasoning salt, chili powder, and cayenne.

Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until the mushrooms release their liquid and the meat is no longer pink, 7 to 8 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.

Add 2 cups water, the tomato sauce, kidney beans, and brown sugar and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the chili thickens and the liquid reduces slightly, 35 to 40 minutes. The chili tastes better the longer you let the flavors mingle.

Reprinted from Cravings: Recipes for All the Food You Want to Eat. Copyright © 2016 by Chrissy Teigen. Photographs copyright © 2016 by Aubrie Pick. Published by Clarkson Potter/Publishers, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC.

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[image error]**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY: Anya is giving away a $10 Amazon Gift Card to one lucky reader who comments on her Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog.

Thanks, Anya, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special** with LOVE & TURMOIL by Luanna Stewart #recipe ~ Hot Smoked Salmon Dip

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[image error]Karen’s Killer Fixin’s

**AUTHOR SPECIAL**

with Luanna Stewart!

Welcome to my Friday bonus feature called Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special**!! Today, in lieu of one of my own recipes, I’m going to introduce you to a new author who will share one of her favorite recipes. Not only will you and I occasionally learn how to make something new and delicious, but we’ll get a chance to check out some wonderful authors. Introducing author, LUANNA STEWART, and her favorite recipe for HOT SMOKED SALMON DIP! 

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LOVE & TURMOIL

BY LUANNA STEWART

BLURB

Six months after burying her wastrel husband, Lady Arabella Woodbridge has resigned herself to a lonely life in the countryside with only her two adopted nieces for company. Being a young, respectable widow is – frustrating. Then the charming and wickedly handsome Samuel Payn takes up residence in the neighboring manor house.

Retired explorer and occasional pirate Samuel Payn is on a two-fold mission – retrieve buried loot, and locate the father who abandoned his mother to a life of poverty. But a gang of murderous villains is also after the buried treasure. And someone is threatening to tear apart the lovely widow’s family.

Will Sam’s single-minded determination to uncover his true identity threaten Arabella’s happiness – and his life?

~~~

[image error]LOVE & TURMOIL

BY LUANNA STEWART

EXCERPT

“My understanding of the custom is that engagements are sealed with a kiss.”

“You surely aren’t suggesting—” Oh, gracious.

“I am.” He put his other hand on her shoulder and slowly, slowly skimmed along to her neck, brushing escaped wisps of hair out of the way.

“I couldn’t possibly.” She tingled. Everywhere. She licked her lips.

“You can.” He pulled her closer still until there was no space between them. Her breasts touched his chest, her knees touched his knees, and her tummy touched his—heavens. He did want to kiss her.

“Mr. Payn—”

“Sam.”

“Sam, I’m not—”

His lips touched hers, briefly. Too briefly. With a sigh she returned the kiss. She felt his smile, her stomach did a little flip, and her lips curved in an answering smile. She’d never smiled whilst in the middle of a kiss before. He trailed his lips along her jaw and nipped lightly at her earlobe. “Oh yes, I’ll enjoy this engagement.”

[image error]Meet Author Luanna Stewart…

Luanna Stewart has been creating adventures for her imaginary friends since childhood. As soon as she discovered her grandmother’s stash of romance novels, all plots had to lead to a happily-ever-after.

Luanna writes full time, concentrating on sexy romantic suspense, steamy paranormal romance, and spicy historical romance.

Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Luanna has recently returned to the land of her birth with her dear husband and two spoiled cats. When she’s not torturing her heroes and heroines, she’s in her kitchen baking something delicious.

Under her previous pen name of Grace Hood she has two novellas published with The Wild Rose Press

Links to Luanna’s website, blog, books, etc.

Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Love-Turmoil-Luanna-Stewart-ebook/dp/B076Z4RGRR

Barnes & Noble:

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love-and-turmoil-luanna-stewart/1127353431?ean=2940158945496

http://www.bookstrand.com/love-and-turmoil

Website:  http://www.luannastewart.com/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/Luanna_Stewart

Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/Luanna.Stewart.nau

Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/luannastewart/

Goodreads: 

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14104212.Luanna_Stewart

Amazon Author Page: 

www.amazon.com/author/luanna_stewart

https://www.amazon.com/Woman-Camphor-Trunk-Mystery-Mysteries/dp/1633883639

I hope you enjoy the recipe Luanna is sharing today on Karen’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy Eating!

Karen

P.S. We’re at 353 recipes and counting with this posting. Hope you find some recipes you like. If this is your first visit, please check out past blogs for more Killer Fixin’s. In the right hand column menu, you can even look up past recipes by type. i.e. Desserts, Breads, Beef, Chicken, Soups, Author Specials, etc.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

NOTE FROM LUANNA: Thank you, Karen, for letting me visit with your readers today.

Baby, it’s cold outside. At least in my neck of the woods. Up here in Celsius land we’re having daytime highs of -10 degrees C. And with the wind blowing off the water, my cheeks start to ache after only a few minutes.

Cold, wintery weather is the perfect excuse to stay indoors and read a romance novel.   And to fuel the reading, you’ll need a dish of this hot dip at your elbow. A whole-grain cracker is the perfect vehicle to get the dip from the dish to the mouth.

HOT SMOKED SALMON DIP

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup mayonnaise

juice of half a lemon

1/2 teaspoon (+) hot pepper sauce

3 green onions, sliced thinly

8 oz smoked salmon

1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper (or 1/2 tsp each salt and pepper)

1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Mix all ingredients until well combined. Place in 8 inch square dish and bake for 15 – 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Serve with sliced baguette or crackers.

~~~

[image error]**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY: Luanna is giving away an ebook copy of LOVE AND MAYHEM, the first book in the series  to one lucky reader who comments on her Karen’s Killer Fixin’s blog.

Thanks, Luanna, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: THE DUKE OF HER DESIRE, Diamonds In The Rough by Sophie Barnes

[image error]KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

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THE DUKE OF HER DESIRE

Diamonds In The Rough

BY SOPHIE BARNES

Blurb

He was only supposed to keep an eye on his friend’s sister . . . now he’s about to lose his heart . . .

When Thomas Heathmore, Duke of Coventry, agrees to steer his friend’s inexperienced younger sister through society, he doesn’t expect the lady in question to be so infernally stubborn. Amelia Matthews seems to have little interest in balls or suitors at all. Instead, she intends to open a school, and against his better instincts, Thomas offers to help. Yet somewhere along the line, Amelia ceases to be a simple responsibility . . . and becomes an undeniable temptation.

Since her brother inherited a dukedom, Amelia’s prospects have transformed. But though she’s long been secretly infatuated with Thomas, she refuses to heed the arrogant aristocrat’s advice. If only it were as easy to ignore his heated touch. And as Amelia soon learns, the ton is a minefield, where one moment’s indiscretion can unleash a scandal—or entice her to surrender everything to the duke of her desire . . .

[image error]THE DUKE OF HER DESIRE

Diamonds In The Rough

BY SOPHIE BARNES

Excerpt

Chapter 1

Huntley House, London, 1818

When Thomas Augustus Heathmore, 3rd Duke of Coventry, came to call at Huntley House one Monday morning, the last thing he expected was to find the Duke of Huntley’s sister, Lady Amelia, sprawled on her backside in the wet grass.

And yet that was precisely what happened, thanks to a bit of serendipitous timing. Because he’d actually been heading toward Huntley’s study. Except the French doors at the end of the hallway stood open, allowing him to hear Huntley’s youngest sister, Lady Juliette, shout, “Careful!” at precisely the right moment.

It was the sort of warning that could not, nay, should not, be ignored, so it was only natural for him to walk past the study where Huntley’s butler, Pierson, stopped to knock, and continue on through the French doors to the garden.

“Oh my goodness!” Juliette exclaimed. Her eyes met his from behind a beam of muted sunlight that sifted through between the branches of a nearby elm. His gaze swept sideways, falling directly on Lady Amelia just as she turned to stare up at him. Her eyes widened a fraction, filling with something he could not define, before looking away as she pushed herself up off the ground.

He felt the edge of his mouth twitch with amusement. “I see you’re putting your sister-in-law’s advice to good use.”

Lady Amelia rewarded his comment with a glare, which was unsurprising, considering the Duchess of Huntley had been trying to teach Lady Amelia proper comportment for the past month.

Having spent most of their lives in the slums of St. Giles, Raphe Matthews, the Duke of Huntley, and his sisters, Amelia and Juliette, had found their lives turned upside down when their brother had inherited his title. Since their arrival in Mayfair, they had all been doing their best to adjust themselves to Society’s expectations, which as Thomas understood it, had not been easy.

“Is it not fashionable for young ladies to have grass stains on their skirts?” Lady Amelia inquired in a dry tone. She swiped her hands against her gown, leaving streaks of moisture and dirt upon the white muslin.

“Not as far as I am aware,” Thomas replied. Looking her over, he couldn’t help but sigh at her messy appearance. “I trust you are unharmed?”

She gave a slight nod, prompting a chestnut curl to drop dramatically over her forehead. It bobbed in front of her hazel eyes until she blew it aside with a puff of air. “Quite,” she muttered.

“Well then.” He shifted his gaze to Lady Juliette, who appeared to be admiring the roses with great intensity, before addressing Lady Amelia once more. “That is the most important thing.” He paused, observing how flushed her cheeks had gotten, before he asked, “Will you tell me what happened?”

A moment passed before she pointed toward some branches in a nearby tree. “I was returning a fallen nest and ended up losing my balance.”

He nodded. Of course that was what she’d been doing. She was invariably compelled to help the less fortunate creatures of the world. According to her brother, she’d taken in several stray cats, for which he’d since been forced to find new homes. “You should probably have asked the gardener to assist you,” he said. After all, climbing trees would not improve her reputation. Especially since the garden shared a fence with Green Park, and anyone strolling along the nearest path might witness her unorthodox behavior.

“Of course.” She crossed her arms, and he wondered if he ought to say something more.

After all, what sort of friend would he be if he didn’t offer his honest opinion? He pondered that thought for a moment and finally told her, “I would also suggest you remove those twigs from your hair and put yourself to rights. It will be calling time soon.”

About the Book

The Duke of Her Desire

by Sophie Barnes

Series

Diamonds in the Rough

Genre

Adult

Historical Romance

Publisher

Avon Books

Publication Date

December 26, 2017

About Author Sophie Barnes…

Born in Denmark, SOPHIE BARNES spent her youth traveling with her parents to wonderful places all around the world. She’s lived in five different countries, on three different continents, and speaks Danish, English, French, Spanish and Romanian. But, most impressive of all, she’s been married to the same man three times-in three different countries and in three different dresses. When she’s not busy dreaming up her next romance novel, Sophie enjoys spending time with her family, swimming, cooking, gardening, watching romantic comedies and, of course, reading. Visit Sophie Barnes at www.SophieBarnes.com. You can also find her on Facebook and Twitter (@BarnesSophie).

Author Links

    

This promotion is brought to you by Pure Textuality PR.

Congratulations JANUARY 2018 Blog Subscriber Giveaway Winner!

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Time to announce the JANUARY 2018 #WINNER of my Monthly Blog Subscriber Giveaway, where special readers can win a read or coffee – two of my favorite things—on me!!!

And the winner is…

JOHNDILLON.USA…

Congratulations! You have won a $5 gift card from Amazon or Starbucks (your choice)! I’ll contact you privately to arrange for delivery of your gift.

Dear Readers,

If you missed this month’s giveaway, you can still subscribe to my blog at http://www.karendocter.com/ to get my blogs delivered straight to your email and be entered EACH MONTH into a random drawing for #FREE $5 gift card. On the first of each month, I’ll draw one name at www.random.org from all of my subscribers to receive the card.

More wonderful perks to subscribing to my blog? The blogs, when they appear in your Inbox, are pretty and easy to read. You can discover new authors, recipes and reader fun…and many of the authors sponsor GIVEAWAYS just for commenting!

If you’re only in the mood to receive my Special Release Alerts, you can subscribe to my mailing list instead. This is NOT a newsletter, but the occasional Karen/K.L. Docter news release.

Thanks for joining me on Karen’s Killer Book Bench!!

Karen/K.L.

To avoid SPAM filters, I’m announcing this random giveaway on the blog so that all current subscribers will know who won. If your name is announced and you don’t hear from me and can’t find an email in your SPAM folder, please contact me at kldocter@yahoo.com. Thank you!
Winners selected by random.org.

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: CLAIMED IN SHADOWS, Sinful Empire Book 1 by Luna Davers & Amanda Adams

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 [image error]KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

~~

CLAIMED IN SHADOWS

Sinful Empire Book 1

BY LUNA DAVERS & AMANDA ADAMS

Blurb

A secret society. An innocent woman. Forbidden pleasure beyond her wildest fantasies…or darkest dreams.

Anthony Noscosto is a man disconnected. He rules everything around him with iron self-control, with a tender touch or with the slight bite of pain. A woman’s body is his playground, but he never gives his heart to those he masters. He never breaks his rules, never loses control.

Until her…

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[image error]CLAIMED IN SHADOWS

Sinful Empire Book 1

BY LUNA DAVERS & AMANDA ADAMS

Excerpt

Observing her from across the open quad where he had for some time ceased to listen to the colleagues standing with him, Dr. Anthony Nascosto, the university’s Professor of Roman and Byzantine history and architecture, remained stony-faced and illegible. No one noticed as he watched Lake make her way to the library and up its front steps to disappear through an entrance. Even after she was out of sight, he evoked the curve of her waist and line of her hips, and the way she had pushed from her eyes the dark wisp that had escaped from her pinned hair. He was particularly struck by the way she had tossed her head back and laughed to the sky during her phone conversation. Already, though not yet a month into term, he was aware of her independence and a kind of indifference—he could smell it on her—and it aroused something deep within him. She had spoken with confidence that first day in his class, showing a clear, sharp intellect, and had not hesitated to challenge a traditionally held mantra in the field, not with any flippant sense of disrespect, but rather, with an alarmingly sound logic.

Later, in the seminar he held once a week for students in the first year of the program, she had consulted a lexicon of architectural terms while placing the end of a pen between her lips. Her brow had furrowed as she concentrated. He had watched her thus moments after he and the other students had been given a taste of her keenness: she’d made a funny and raunchy comment. The sight now of the end of the pen vanishing within the folds of her mouth combined with her quick-wittedness had disarmed him momentarily.

The writing instrument was removed but reinserted an instant later, its handler oblivious of her own movements and, coupled with the recent display of her sharp mind, their arousing effect. He had walked around and behind the chairs of the seminar room’s table where the other students were immersed in their studies, and looked down at her bowed head as she pored over the text. The urge to place an assertive hand over the back of her exposed neck rose within him. To place it there and cover it, but somehow bare it—and her—for himself through his fingers and touch.

He’d been so taken by this desire as he stood behind her that it seemed a vision, as though he actually had placed his hand there, as though she and he were alone together, disassociated from everything and everyone else around them. He’d had to rouse himself, surprised at this unaccustomed loss of control. He was rarely, if ever, moved to feel intrigue for or attraction to those around him, and certainly never his female students, who seemed a world away in maturity and sense. He knew he felt that way about most everybody, but that this was certainly augmented even more by the boundaries between him and his students. And yet, now the image of Lake Anderson crossing the campus, the breeze teasing her hair, and her laugh flung out with such abandon, pushed all other thoughts from his mind once again. He felt the blood pulsing through his veins and he clenched his fists to his sides.

He was forced to admit to himself that his efforts to overcome the flame she had ignited would not be doused so easily.

[image error] Meet Author Luna Davers…

Luna Davers is a teacher by day and a superhero (romance author) by night. She writes sexy, sensual romance with dominant, alpha males and a lot of suspense. If you like sexy, intense stories that will have your heart racing, one-click a Luna Davers book today.

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Links to Luna’s website, blog, books, etc.

Amazon:  http://amzn.to/2ElNPqN

Blog:  www.lunadavers.wordpress.com

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[image error]**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY: Luna is giving away a $10 Amazon Gift Card  to one lucky reader who comments on her **Author Peek** Interview or Karen’s Killer Book Bench blogs.

Thanks, Luna & Amanda, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!