Karen Docter's Blog, page 194
January 24, 2017
Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Spotlight of Starry Nights Book Club & the Steamy Calendar Girls Book Club!
We are excited to invite you to the Starry Nights Book Club and the Steamy Calendar Girls Book Club!
JOIN US!
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24 Bestselling Romance Authors invite you to Sign Up NOW!
It’s easy…
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Get 2 (two) emails each month with the new FREE Book of the Month, giveaways and info about hot new releases from our authors
Download the FREE book (We use Instafreebie – because it’s free – and you select your format)
Enter the giveaway and enjoy!
Starry Nights
Book of the Month for January
Accidental Abduction
by
Eve Langlais
Steamy Calendar Girls
Book of the Month for January
Capture
by
Rachel Can Dyken
Join Today – It’s FREE!
Starry Nights authors 2017
Grace Goodwin
Susan Hayes
S.E. Smith
Celia Kyle (aka Erin Tate)
Susan Grant
Eve Langlais
Anna Hackett
Evangeline Anderson
Milly Taiden
Mandy M. Roth
Amanda Adams
Lisa Ladew
Join Today – It’s FREE!
Steamy Calendar authors 2017
Carly Phillips
Vanessa Vale
Susan Stoker
Jillian Neal
Skye Warren
Fiona Archer
Helena Newbury
Kate Canterbary
Willow Winters
Rachel Van Dyken
Michele Callahan
Vivian Wood
Visit the Book Club Websites for more details – and start reading your FREE books from these amazing bestselling authors today!
STARRY NIGHTS BOOK CLUB
http://starrynightsbookclub.com
STEAMY CALENDAR GIRLS BOOK CLUB
http://steamycalendargirls.com
January 23, 2017
**Author Peek** Interview with Kat Martin, Into The Firestorm (BOSS, Inc.)
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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INTO THE FIRESTORM
BOSS, Inc.
By KAT MARTIN
Blurb
At Brodie Operations Security Service, Inc., following your instincts is company policy . . .
M. Cassidy—Luke Brodie had heard the name before, some novice bounty hunter working Seattle, catching tricky skips with more success than a newcomer should expect. But the dark curls, sparkly top, and impressive cleavage were not what Brodie had pictured.
Emma Cassidy is tough and smart and sexy as hell. She’s also popping up a step ahead of him every time he’s close to the capture he wants most . . . and there’s no room for learning on the trail of this monster.
Emma has idolized Luke Brodie, the bounty hunter who can bring anyone in. The big man in the soft shoes, with a face like a fallen angel and a reputation for breaking hearts. Watching him in action is intoxicating. But her fight with Rudy Vance is fiercely personal. If he gets too close, Brodie will find out just how ferocious she can be . . .
ABOUT THE BOOK…
Luke Brodie is a bounty hunter. A fat $600,000 is the 20% bail enforcement fee he’ll collect if he brings in international criminal, Rudy Vance.
Emma Sullivan is also hunting Vance. It’s been almost a year since she arrived at her sister’s home to find the housekeeper murdered and her young niece the victim of Vance’s sick assault.
Emma is determined to find Vance and make him pay. And no one–not even the infamous Luke Brodie–is going to stop her.
RT BOOK REVIEW…
“With a chilling plot, non-stop adrenaline-pumping action and fast-paced dialogue, Martin’s latest B.O.S.S. Inc. novel is rock-solid. The complex ex-soldier hero and ex-teacher turned kick-butt bounty hunter heroine have combustible chemistry – and travel an explosive and bittersweet road to their HEA. The skillfully placed humor really lightens this extremely dark, suspenseful tale.”– RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars
TALKING TO KAT MARTIN
Author of INTO THE FIRESTORM
BOSS, Inc.
Before we get started talking about your writing, tell us a little about yourself, where you’re from, what you do for a living (if you’re not a full-time writer) what hobbies you have, etc. Whatever you’d like to share to introduce yourself.
Currently I live in the mountains near Missoula, Montana, but I also have a winter home at the beach in California. Best of both worlds. I’ve been writing full-time since the late 1980s. I’ve written somewhere around 70 books, first Historical Romance, now, for the last ten years Romantic Suspense. I’m pretty much a workaholic, though I do love to travel. My favorite thing to do is stay in expensive hotels and eat gourmet food. But that is pretty much everyone’s favorite.
What’s your favorite part of the writing process?
I love it when you starting writing a scene and you can really feel it coming together, when all of the pieces fit perfectly and also fit exactly into the story. I love being in that place in my head.
If you were to choose one superpower, what would it be?
Keeping myself healthy and staying young. Who wouldn’t like that power?
Do you ever get stuck when you’re writing a book? What do you do to get “unstuck”?
I get stuck on just about every book, unfortunately. Getting out of the house sometimes helps. Talking to someone about the plot. My husband usually helps with that. Lately, I’ve tried skipping a little ways forward–not far–that would be a disaster for me–just a scene or two. That helped last time.
What is your least favorite part of writing?
Getting stuck. It’s terrifying. Sleepless nights, no end to going over and over the plot, trying to figure out what to do to solve the dilemma you are stuck in.
If we came to your house for dinner, what would you prepare for us?
I am a good country cook. I make a great baked chicken with cream sherry sauce, great beef stew, good spagetti. I think you would get the chicken, with roasted potatoes and a nice green salad.
What do you wish you’d done differently when you first started the publishing process?
If I’d had more money, I would have had more options. But my husband and I are both writers, so what we earned as novelists was what we had to live on. I probably would have stayed with the first good agent I had. I might have stayed with a good publisher longer than I did and not moved so often.
What is most difficult for you to write? Characters, conflict or emotions? Why?
Backstory. It bores me to read so it bores me to write. I don’t care if the heroine was a geek in highschool. She’s a grownup now. I want to know what she’s doing currently in whatever bad situation she finds herself in.
A penguin walks into your office, right now, wearing a sombrero. What does he say to you and why is he here?
“Ola, Senorita. You want to go and have some Mexican food for lunch? I know this really nice restaurant, eh?”
If you could wave a magic wand, what ill in the world would you solve and why?
I would find a way to control population growth. It would solve just about every problem we have in the world. Even war. With enough food, water, and necessities, there would be a lot less reason for people for people to fight.
Tell us about your next book & when is it being published?
My next book, BEYOND REASON, comes out in June. It’s the first book in my Texas Trilogy. Lincoln Cain is a multi-millionaire businessman. After 2 years in prison, he pulled himself out of the gutter and changed his life. He’s as tough as they come. Carly Drake, the woman who challenges him, is going to be in for a rough ride. Luckily, she’s strong enough to handle him.
Which is good because when she finds herself in the sites of a drug lord, she discovers she needs Linc’s help. I’m hoping readers will enjoy Linc and Carly and I look forward to writing a lot more stories.
More about Author Kat Martin.
..
New York Times bestselling author Kat Martin is a graduate of the University of California at Santa Barbara where she majored in Anthropology and also studied History. She is married to L.J. Martin, author of western, non-fiction, and suspense novels.
Kat has written more than sixty-five novels. Sixteen million copies of her books are in print and she has been published in twenty foreign countries, including Japan, France, Germany, Argentina, Greece, China, Russia, and Spain.
Born in Bakersfield, California, Kat currently resides in Missoula, Montana, on a small ranch in the beautiful Sapphire mountains.
Her last 12 books have hit the prestigious New York Times bestseller list. INTO THE FURY and INTO THE WHIRLWIND her most recent releases, both took top ten spots.
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Links to Kat’s website, blog, books, etc.
Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Into-Firestorm-BOSS-Inc-Martin-ebook/dp/B01FBZXPFA
Barnes & Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/into-the-firestorm-kat-martin/1123772340?ean=9781420139044
Indiebound:
http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781420139044
Books A Million:
http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Into-Firestorm/Kat-Martin/9781420139044
Kobo:
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/into-the-firestorm
Google Play:
https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Kat_Martin_Into_the_Firestorm?id=mGchDAAAQBAJ
CONTEST LINKS:
http://www.katmartin.com/contests/
SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS
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**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Kat is giving away an ebook copy (winner’s choice Kindle, NOOK, paperback – US ONLY) of INTO THE FURY, BOSS, Inc. Book 1, to one lucky reader who comments on her Killer Book Bench blog. Good luck!
Thanks, Kat, for sharing your book with us!
Don’t miss the chance to read this book!
January 22, 2017
Karen’s Killer Book Bench: This Piece Of My Soul: Tampa Suns Hockey (Clearing The Ice, Book Two) by Robyn M. Ryan
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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THIS PIECE OF MY SOUL: TAMPA SUNS HOCKEY
Clearing the Ice #2
By ROBYN M. RYAN
Blurb
They believe love conquers all.
One of pro-hockey’s golden couples, Andrew and Caryn Chadwick live in the limelight reserved for elite professional athletes. On their second anniversary, Andrew receives an unexpected contract offer to join the Tampa Suns. As they look forward to a new adventure, neither foresees an event that challenges their love and threatens their marriage.
Until it doesn’t.
A sudden and senseless accident threatens Andrew’s life and inexplicably drives a wedge between the couple. Shattered by the incident, paralyzed by fear that it could happen again, Caryn finds herself at odds with her husband and unable to provide the support he needs—at the time he is most vulnerable.
As their perfect world crumbles, each makes choices that take Andrew and Caryn further apart. Distrust, fears, and secrets construct walls. This Piece of My Soul follows the joint and separate paths the couple navigate as each hopes to rediscover the love that can conquer all.
Although This Piece of My Soul is the second book in the Clearing the Ice Series, it can be read as a standalone novel.
THIS PIECE OF MY SOUL: TAMPA SUNS HOCKEY
Clearing the Ice #2
By ROBYN M. RYAN
Excerpt
Caryn gasped when she saw the gruesome bruise on Andrew’s leg. “Even with your pads?”
Andrew shrugged. “Pads don’t make much difference. Luckily, no bones fractured.”
Caryn could tell by his expression that he didn’t think it was a big deal. “Andrew, tell me again why you are suddenly blocking shots like this.” She gingerly felt the area around the bruise before Andrew pressed an ice pack against it.
“Coach’s system. Everyone helps out on defense. I gave up the puck in our own end. I wasn’t going to hang Eckstrom out to dry. It’s nothing, Cary.”
She sat beside him on the side of the bed. “It doesn’t make sense. Your line is the team’s top scoring and you’re all blocking shots. What if you, John or Jason break an arm or your leg? Is it worth it?”
Andrew glanced at her as he adjusted the ice pack. “Everyone’s valuable to the team. We’re expected to play the same system of defense.” He met her eyes. “I try to block correctly. I just gave up the puck to the wrong person and paid for it. I’ll be fine. I’ve seen worse in the locker room.”
“Well, I don’t want to see worse, Drew.” Cary stood and walked into the bathroom, returning with a hand towel. “Here, put this under the ice pack. I’ll get you a fresh one in a few minutes.”
Andrew shifted until he was leaning against the headboard, stretching out his legs on the bed. He patted the mattress beside him. “Come give me a proper welcome home.”
“I don’t want you to make your leg any worse.” Caryn bit back a smile as she walked around the bed, dropping pieces of clothing as she moved. She saw his gaze following each movement, and his eyes darkened when she scooted on the bed beside him.
“Oh, I think we can manage,” Andrew said as he pulled her toward him and kissed her, closing his arms around her. “Yep, I’ve definitely missed this.” He shifted until Caryn faced him.
Her leg brushed against the ice pack and she jerked away. “This is not going to work.”
Andrew reached for the pack and towel and tossed them away from the bed. “Problem solved.” Caryn opened her mouth to protest, but he cut her off with a kiss. He held her tightly against him, running his fingers lightly against her skin. She tugged at his shirt as she slipped her hands against his chest. He released her as he quickly shed the shirt, and then he rolled her onto her back. “Now, where were we?” he said as he kissed the side of her neck.
“Hmm, maybe thinking twice before blocking the next shot.” Caryn bit back a smile as Andrew pulled back, his expression reflecting his impatience.
“That’s not what I was thinking. But if that’s what you want…”
Caryn cut him off before he could complete the thought. She grasped his neck with both hands and pulled him toward her, her mouth seeking his. Capturing his kiss, she brushed her hands across his shoulders and back. Her fingers teased the waistband of his gym shorts. Andrew broke off the kiss to move his lips to her neck, gently nibbling at the skin on her lobe.
“You sure you don’t want to discuss blocking shots?”
A soft moan escaped Caryn’s mouth. “What?” she asked, her breath catching in her throat. “Just… keep… kissing me.”
She heard his low chuckle as he pulled her against him and reclaimed her lips. “Just making sure.”
Meet Author Robyn M. Ryan. ..
By the time she was an eight-year-old tomboy growing up in the suburbs of Chicago, Robyn M. Ryan definitely knew what she wanted to do when she grew up—play major league baseball or write. She wrote throughout elementary and high school, first composing novels featuring favorite TV and music personalities, and then venturing into sports writing.
Attending UGA’s journalism school launched her career in public relations, which included an internship with the Atlanta Flames NHL hockey team. With the encouragement of a writers group on twitter—WritersThatChat—This Piece of My Heart, a hockey romance, and the first book in Robyn’s series Clearing the Ice was published May 2016. The second book in the series, This Piece of My Soul, introduces the Tampa Suns professional hockey team.
Besides writing, Robyn’s passions include following the New York Rangers, NASCAR, and the Atlanta Braves; splitting time between homes in Atlanta and Palm Coast, and visiting Paris as often as possible. Two brilliant Westies rule both homes.
As do many writers, Robyn chooses to write using a pseudonym—hers is a combination of her sons’ names, a contribution from her youngest nephew.
~~~
Links to Robyn’s website, blog, books, etc.
Link to Follow Tour:
http://tastybooktours.com/tours-master/2016/11/15/this-piece-of-my-soul-clearing-the-ice-2-by-robyn-m-ryan
Goodreads Link:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30044763-this-piece-of-my-soul
Goodreads Series Link:
https://www.goodreads.com/series/193188-clearing-the-ice
**Release Week Price: $1.99 through January 31, 2017** (Reg. $3.99)
Buy Links: AMAZON | ITUNES | KOBO
RELEASE WEEK SPECIAL*
Get This Piece of My Heart, the first book in the series for just .99 sale (regularly $2.99) through January 31, 2017.
“This Piece of My Heart delivers a sweet love story that still sizzles — a must-read for anyone looking for the perfect happily-ever-after.” – Cara Lockwood, USA Today bestselling author http://lrd.to/this-piece-of-my-heart
Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS
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Thanks, Robyn, for sharing your book with us!
Don’t miss the chance to read this book!
January 19, 2017
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special** with Adele Downs #recipe ~ Original Banana Bread Recipe
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s
**AUTHOR SPECIAL**
with ADELE DOWNS!
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, ADELE DOWNS, and her favorite recipe: ORIGINAL BANANA BREAD RECIPE FROM ADELE DOWNS!
LIP SERVICE
By ADELE DOWNS
Blurb
Some ghosts won’t take “yes” for an answer.
Jack Harris has loved Legs Anderson since they were kids. Now that he has her in his bed, he has no intention of letting her go. Aunt Ada has other ideas, even from the grave.
GETTING BETWEEN JACK…
Orphaned at a young age, Legs Anderson owes her Aunt Ada everything. The stoic old lady raised her, and Ada’s warnings about men—and the Harris boys in particular—have stuck, even after her death. Of course, that could be because Ada stuck around, too.
…AND HIS LEGS
Patience is not one of Jack Harris’s virtues, and he’s waited too long to start a life with the woman he’s loved since childhood instead of them just knocking boots. Now Ada is interfering from beyond the grave, haunting the old Victorian house she bequeathed to her niece and reinforcing Legs’s fears of commitment. But Jack won’t give up. No matter what trouble may follow, the house will be renovated, Ada will learn to let go, Legs will put her money where her mouth is…and then Jack’ll put his lips everywhere else.
LIP SERVICE
By ADELE DOWNS
EXCERPT
The roar of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle on Rachel’s block and the rev of a throttle in her driveway announced Jack’s arrival. Legs tried to appear nonchalant when he walked through the poolside gate, but the sight of his sun-streaked hair and tanned, muscular good looks nearly knocked her off her seat. She eased her sunglasses down the bridge of her nose to get a better look.
When he stepped into the pool area dressed in black jeans, black biker boots, and a white muscle shirt that framed his pumped-up shoulders and biceps, she caught her breath. Everyone in the group said “hey” and Rachel offered him a cold drink, but his focus had remained on her. He slid his sunglasses on top of his head and nodded in her direction.
Legs remembered his gaze meeting hers before his attention strayed to her gold and black bikini, and then savored every inch of her skin. An appreciative smirk curled his lips and desire flashed in his beautiful blue eyes. He took a long pull of the soft drink someone handed him and then set the can down on the patio table. He looked her way and said, “Want to go for a ride?”
The invitation came out like a dare. All eyes shifted to her, watching to see what she’d do. They all knew she wasn’t allowed to date Jack Harris. Taking a ride on his motorcycle might not have been the same thing, but there would be hell to pay if her aunt found out.
She stretched her arms over her head and offered a lazy smile. “I guess so.” Though she’d been as nervous and excited as a rabbit, she never let on. She stood and pulled on her shorts and shirt, slid her sandals over her feet, and made her way across the patio to him.
Her aunt’s spies might see her on the road, but she pushed that worry aside. Mere weeks remained before she’d move away to college and the subject would be moot. She’d be gone most of the next four years, and by the time she got back, Jack would probably be married with a couple of kids. Half the women in town had their eyes on him and his brothers.
The idea of Jack marrying someone else made her furious, and more determined than ever to enjoy this rare day alone with him.
His gaze tracked every step of her approach, as if memorizing the lines and planes of her face, learning the shape of her breasts, and tattooing the curves of her waist into his brain. When she reached his side, he smiled at her so intently she almost faltered. Her heartbeat raced when he took her hand. She barely heard her friends say good-bye as they exited the patio door.
His Harley was built in classic style—all black steel and leather with silver chrome, glinting majestically in the sunlight like a god. She ran her fingers over the warm plush seats.
“Ever been on a bike before?” he asked, watching her with eyes so blue she almost missed his question while she stared back.
She pulled an elastic band from her shorts pocket and tied her hair into a ponytail. “Uh. No.” Her hair swung with the shake of her head. He probably knew the answer, but she appreciated the benefit of his question. He hadn’t made her feel like a total geek.
He gave her a tutorial with simple instructions, including the demand that she hold on to him tight and not let go. No problem there. She resisted a fit of giggles, determined to act her age and accept responsibility for her own safety, as tenuous as that might be on the rear end of a motorcycle wearing shorts and sandals.
Yikes. Hormones really did rule the heart.
He slid his sunglasses into place and got on the bike, steadying it with his feet while she scooted in behind him. After shifting her weight to find her center of balance, she wrapped her arms tight around his chest. The solid feel of his body thrilled her beyond anything she’d imagined. He smelled fantastic too, like musk cologne, leather, and sweat tossed with August air and sunshine.
“Ready?” he asked.
Leaning closer for support, she pressed her torso against his back and stifled a gasp at the sensations the friction created. If he never started the engine, and they simply sat together like this, it would have been enough.
About Author Adele Downs.. 
Adele Downs is the best-selling, award-winning author of more than 20 romance titles, including those written under another pen name, and a former journalist with hundreds of articles to her credit. When not writing in her home office in rural Pennsylvania, she can be found reading a book on the nearest beach, taking photographs, or riding in her convertible.
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Links to Adele’s Website, Books, & Social Media:
Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Lip-Service-Adele-Downs-ebook/dp/B00WT1EA2W
Find Adele Downs’ Books on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Adele-Downs/e/B00G1RRS60
Website: http://adeledowns.com
Blog: http://adeledowns.wordpress.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoradeledowns
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Adele_Downs
Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/httpwwwgoodreadscomAdeleDowns
Join Adele Downs’ Convertible Crew Street Team! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1431874030384864/
I hope you enjoy the recipe Adele is sharing today on Karen’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy eating!
Karen
P.S. We’re at 294 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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ORIGINAL BANANA BREAD RECIPE
FROM ADELE DOWNS
This is the most delicious, moist banana bread I’ve ever tasted and I hope you love it too. The secret to its wonderful texture is the plain yogurt. The bread is easy to make, rich and satisfying. Organic ingredients without chemicals and preservatives are always best. Be sure to follow the mixing method exactly for best results. After the loaf has cooled, sprinkle with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
1 ¼ cups organic sugar
1 ½ cups flour
½ cup organic butter, softened
4 tablespoons plain whole yogurt
2 eggs
2 ripe organic bananas, mashed
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon organic vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a medium-sized bowl, cream sugar and softened butter using a hand mixer. Add baking soda to the center of the contents. Place the yogurt on top of the baking soda and hand-stir. Add the two eggs, slightly beaten. Next, add the mashed bananas, flour, and vanilla. Mix all ingredients together well.
Place batter in a standard size non-stick loaf pan and bake at 350 degrees for one hour. Relax and visit Adele Downs at http://adeledowns.com while the bread bakes. Let cool and enjoy for breakfast, dessert, or with tea.
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**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Leave a comment and sign up for the monthly newsletter from Adele Downs. http://www.adeledowns.com/newsletter.html
TWO lucky winners will receive a Swag Pack by USPS mail filled with Bromley’s Earl Grey tea and other goodies from Adele Downs. The tea will be the perfect complement to Adele’s Original Banana Bread recipe. Enjoy! Thanks for visiting.
Thanks, Adele, for sharing your book with us!
Don’t miss the chance to read this book!
January 18, 2017
Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Butterfly Serenade (O’Malley Brothers, Book 1) by Julianna Douglas
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!
~~
BUTTERFLY SERENADE
O’Malley Brothers, Book 1
By JULIANNA DOUGLAS
Blurb
Rose
Whore. Slut. Tramp.
I don’t want to believe the words, but they’re true. Having sex with strangers temporarily affords me the necessary control to quiet the demons from my nightmares. But each unfulfilling encounter leaves me more emotionally empty than before. I’m trapped in a dead, brown shell, unable to break free.
Until the day he walks into my life.
Colin is everything that’s good and pure–a beacon of light to my dark, lost soul. His music is a soothing balm, warming long-frozen places inside me. His kindness disarms me, making me long for more. But to have more, I’d need to reveal the horrors of my past.
And I can’t tell anyone. It’ll tear me apart.
Colin
I’ve been waiting for her all my life.
From the moment I laid eyes her, I knew Rose was my soul mate. I’m drawn to her inner beauty and yearn to show her the love she’s never known. The pain reflected in her lovely amber eyes rouses emotions deep within me, stirring the music in my soul and making my fingers take flight over the keyboard.
But Rose is a woman holding closely guarded secrets.
More than my next breath, I want to quell the haunted look in her eyes … heal her broken spirit and make her whole again. She doesn’t believe that’s possible. But I won’t give up.
Not until she lets me love her–all of her.
Warning: Contains graphic descriptions of abuse that may distress some readers.
BUTTERFLY SERENADE
O’Malley Brothers, Book 1
By JULIANNA DOUGLAS
Excerpt
Chapter 1
Rose
I slide the last box of my belongings out of the back seat of Olivia’s car and close the door with my hip. For a moment, I stand there breathing deeply of the fresh pine-scented mountain air. In the distance, beyond the brick building that houses our dorm, the majestic San Francisco peaks rise up in their cloak of foggy clouds to meet a clear blue sky. It’s good to be back at Northern Arizona University. The city of Flagstaff and this school have been my haven since I left my old life behind two years ago. I don’t miss it. No one in their right mind would. It was nothing short of hell. In a way, my life didn’t really start until I moved here. It’s still far from perfect, but whose life is? At least it’s mine to live now, and no one can make me do anything I don’t want to.
Funny that I lived that old life just two short hours away from here, yet no one I used to know has ever tried to find me–or if they tried, they haven’t been successful. I’m glad. I don’t want to see anyone from that time. No, that isn’t entirely true. The only person I’d like to see again is my old friend, Emily. Other than her, I couldn’t care less. The people to whom I’m related by blood aren’t my family anymore. The only real family I have now are Olivia, her mom, Abigail, and her younger sister, Jennifer. They took me in when I had no place else to go and helped me carve out this new life for myself.
The ache in my arms reminds me that I need to relieve them of their burden. I head for the main door of the dorm. One of the girls who lives down the hall from me and Olivia sees me coming and holds it open for me. I nod my thanks, then head up the stairs for the third floor where our room is located. I’ve made this trip up and down about ten times today, unloading all our stuff. By the time I reach the second floor, the strength in my arms is flagging and my legs are screaming to end this torturous exercise. After taking a short breather at the landing, I continue plodding up the next flight of stairs.
At the sound of heavy, rapid footfalls behind me, I move to one side to allow the person who is quickly gaining ground on me to pass by. My cumbersome load bumps into the railing, causing my foot to catch on the next step. As I’m about to pitch down the stairs, a pair of strong hands catch me at the waist.
“Whoa, there! Easy,” a sexy, masculine voice rumbles in my ear.
I automatically stiffen. I don’t like being touched–especially by strange men–without my permission. Knowing he’s only trying to help, I take a deep breath and will my body to relax.
He leans to one side, and out of the corner of my eye, I can see he’s smiling.
“Are you OK?”
“Yeah, I’m fine.” You can let go of me now, I resist the urge to say out loud.
“Here, why don’t you let me help you with that?” Before I can protest, he moves around in front of me and lifts the heavy box out of my hands. “So where are we headed?”
“Ah … next floor.” I point upward. “Room 329.”
He continues up the stairs with me trailing behind. The door to mine and Olivia’s dorm room is open, but before entering he calls out, “Knock, knock.”
“Hi! Did you need something?” I hear Olivia’s friendly voice coming from inside the room, but his tall, muscular frame blocks her from my view.
“Just helping your roommate with her stuff.” He lifts his arms, indicating the box.
“Oh! Well, bring it on in.”
He enters the room, and I follow.
Olivia finally sees me. “I was wondering what happened to you. You were gone for a while.”
Having placed the box on one of the beds, my helper turns around. “I’m afraid that’s partly my fault. I nearly knocked her over in the stairwell. I figured the least I could do is carry her things.”
“Thank you,” I say to one of the buttons on the front of his shirt. I can’t bring myself to make eye contact. It’s something I tend to avoid with men, unless I’m on the prowl. I’m afraid it might encourage him to do something I don’t want. Like ask me out.
“I guess I should introduce myself. I’m Colin … Colin O’Malley.” He offers his hand, first to Olivia–who introduces herself, too–and then to me.
It would be rude not to accept, so I place my hand in his. It almost completely envelopes mine, and at once, I notice his long fingers. Even though his hands are on the large side, there’s a gentleness in them I don’t expect. Now that I think about it, once I got over the initial shock of his touch, I’d noticed it in the stairwell, too. It also didn’t escape me that he’d behaved like a gentleman and hadn’t tried to “accidentally” cop a feel. He’d only held me until he was sure I’d regained my footing.
“So …” He leans down a little. “Do you have a name?”
Realizing I’ve been daydreaming, and still staring at his chest to boot, my face starts to heat. “Yeah, i-it’s Rose … Rose Harmon.”
I finally lift my gaze to find him smiling at me. He has a gorgeous, model-perfect smile with straight white teeth. And wonder of wonders, it actually shows in his sparkling eyes. I don’t think I’ve ever seen eyes quite so blue. They’re the color of the sky I just saw outside. He has dark hair, almost jet black, with an unruly lock that falls down over his forehead, giving him a rakish look. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a man this handsome in all my life, except maybe a few times in the movie magazines Emily and I used to look at in the library as teenagers.
Still smiling and holding my hand, he says, “Rose” as though he’s trying out my name to see if it fits.
The sound of it coming from his lips makes my stomach do an uncharacteristic flip-flop, and for a moment I forget to breathe.
Meet Authors Julianna Douglas. ..
Julianna is a hopeless romantic and believer in fairy tales. Even as a little girl, her fondest dream was to find a Prince Charming who would sweep her off her feet. She’s happy to report she’s been married to him for twenty-two years. Although she’s been an avid reader since she was two years old, she never envisioned herself as a writer until six years ago. Now she feels like she’s finally found her life’s passion. The muses keep the ideas flowing faster than she can put them on the page. She hopes that her readers will love her characters and stories every bit as much as she’s loved creating them.Julianna currently lives in hot, sunny Phoenix, Arizona with her husband, an adult son, a teenage daughter, a Husky/Great Pyrenees mix dog, and two cats. In addition to writing, she enjoys reading, hanging out on GoodReads, surfing the web, watching TV or movies, book shopping, and feeding her insatiable thirst for knowledge.
~~~
Links to Julianna’s website, blog, books, etc.
Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Butterfly-Serenade-OMalley-Brothers-Book-ebook/dp/B01MQYT84P/
B & N:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/butterfly-serenade-julianna-douglas/1125397607?ean=2940153927602
iTunes:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/butterfly-serenade/id1189637970?mt=11
Kobo:
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/butterfly-serenade
Smashwords:
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/691397
Website:
http://www.juliannadouglas.com/cgi-bin/vts/index.html
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJuliannaD/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorJuliannaD
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/authorjuliannad/
GoodReads:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8251748.Julianna_Douglas
~~~
**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Julianna is giving away an ebook copy of BUTTERFLY SERENADE to one lucky reader who comments on her Killer Book Bench blog. Good luck!
Thanks, Julianna, for sharing your book with us!
Don’t miss the chance to read this book!
January 17, 2017
Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Desert Ice (A Skylar Drake Mystery) by Janet Elizabeth Lynn & Will Zeilinger
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!
~~
DESERT ICE
A Skylar Drake Mystery
By JANET ELIZABETH LYNN & WILL ZEILINGER
Blurb
In 1955, a missing Marine and stolen diamonds lead Private Eye Skylar Drake to Sin City, where the women are beautiful and almost everything is legal—except murder.
The FBI and a Las Vegas crime boss force him to choose between the right and wrong side of the law. All the while, government secrets, sordid lies and trickery block his efforts to solve the case.
Common sense tells him to go back to L.A. but is gut tells him to find his fellow Marine.
DESERT ICE
A Skylar Drake Mystery
By JANET ELIZABETH LYNN & WILL ZEILINGER
Excerpt
This was the first Veteran’s Day Parade I’d attended since I got back from Korea. Seems like a lifetime ago. Claire wanted to go every year, even offered to make it a family affair… I never took her up on it.
Standing at attention, I saluted as the color guard passed. Next came the tanks and trucks and I was transported back to my time in the Corps. A pretty young girl dressed in red, white, and blue approached me with a basket full of tin American flag lapel pins. She held one out to me. The paper tag attached to it read Veteran’s Day, November 1955, but my hands wouldn’t come out of my pockets.
“Here sir, take one, they’re free.”
I reluctantly pulled out my hand. She placed one in my palm, and smiled and turned away. The cadence of the drums sounded like artillery as a formation of jet fighters passed overhead. I was back in Korea on Jeju Island, snow, guns, bombs… I shut my eyes and clenched my fists.
A woman wearing a big hat bumped into me. “Oh, excuse me sir.”
Slowly I opened my hand. The sharp edges of the flag pin were stained with my blood but I didn’t feel a thing.
“You should get something for that hand,” she said.
I couldn’t move.
“Come.” She led me to a hot dog stand and handed me a couple of paper napkins.
I leaned against a chain link fence, wrapped the tin flag in a napkin and dropped it in my pocket. I looked down at my blood smeared hand, the one that took shrapnel at Jeju. My head spun. I leaned forward until my head rested on the fence. “Keep breathing,” I told myself.
“So you’re a vet,” the lady with the hat said. “Korea?”
I nodded.
She lit a cigarette. “Here.”
I shook my head. “No thanks.”
“Suit yourself.” She hung the cigarette in her mouth and took my hand. After she wiped the blood, she wrapped another napkin around my palm.
“Just a minute.” She disappeared into the crowd. I stepped back and rested against the chain-link, staring at the tops of the trees. She returned and handed me a cup of coffee. I don’t know why, but my hand shook when I reached for the cup.
“It was pretty tough over there.” Her large hat covered most of her face.
I nodded, “How would you know?”
“47th M.A.S.H., Ouijonbu.” She joined me against the chain link fence and sipped her coffee. There wasn’t much more to say. After a few moments I looked at her. “Jeju Island, 1948. We got caught up in the rebellion.”
She held out her gloved hand. “I’m Nancy.” Still hidden under her hat she said,, “Pleasure to see you again, Mr. Drake.”
I studied her. “Have we met before?”
“We have a mutual association with an Officer Graves of the LAPD.”
I spit out the coffee and threw the cup in the trash. “Did that ass send you to…?”
Nancy shook her head. “No, he didn’t.” She took out a jeweled compact, held it at an angle and looked behind her with the mirror. “I didn’t say I knew him. I said you and I had a mutual association.”
Still checking behind her, she whispered, “Meet me at Hollenbeck Park in Boyle Heights.”
Meet Authors Janet Elizabeth Lynn & Will Zeilinger. ..
Published authors Janet Elizabeth Lynn and Will Zeilinger had been writing individually until they got together and wrote the SKYLAR DRAKE MURDER MYSTERY Series. These hard-boiled tales are based in old Hollywood of 1955. Janet has published seven mystery novels and Will has three plus two short stories. Their world travels have sparked ideas for murder and crime stories. This creative couple is married and live in Southern California.
Janet was born in Queens, New York and raised in Long Island, until she was 12 years old. Her family escaped the freezing winters and hurricanes for the warmth and casual lifestyle of So. California. She has traveled to the far reach of the planet ending with new found friends and a basket of hotel shampoo and conditioner samples.
Will is from Omaha, Nebraska, living in Turkey for 10 years before returning to the states with his family ending up in So. California on their way to Samoa. Go figure.
We are a married couple who write together. Many people ask us how we manage not to kill each other while writing and editing together. Actually we wonder about that too!
I think the important thing is that we were both published authors before we began writing together and know the challenges and rewards of producing a well done novel.
The most important thing is that we check our egos at the door when we come together to edit or discuss the book. The goal is to write a good book and if we need to cut or change a scene we have spent time, sweat and blood over, so be it. Then it’s out. If a scene or dialogue doesn’t work, or it doesn’t move the story along then it’s out.
~~~
Links to Janet & Will’s website, blog, books, etc.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2ilox4O
Barnes & Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/desert-ice-janet-elizabeth-lynn/1125431307?ean=2940153939834
Janet Elizabeth Lynn Website:
www.janetlynnauthor.com
Will Zeilinger Amazon Author Page:
www.willzeilingerauhor.com
~~~
**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Janet and Will are giving away an ebook copy of DESERT ICE to two lucky readers who comment on their Author Peek Interview or Killer Book Bench blogs. Good luck!
Thanks, Janet & Will, for sharing your book with us!
Don’t miss the chance to read this book!
January 16, 2017
Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Her Mate’s Secret Baby (Interstellar Brides Book 9) by Grace Goodwin
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!
~~
HER MATE’S SECRET BABY
Interstellar Brides Book 9
By GRACE GOODWIN
Blurb
Natalie Montgomery wants a new life. While she may be rich, her life is empty. Her parents were never around, too rich and important to be bothered with a child. And when they present her with a emotionless fiancé, she’s done. As a volunteer for the Interstellar Bride Program, she is thrilled to arrive on the hot, desert planet of Trion, and in the arms of a seductive warrior who makes her body burn.
Roark of Trion is not eager for a mate. Danger and the constant threat of war dog his steps. But one look at his new bride, and his mind is changed. Natalie is everything he ever wanted in a woman…so soft, so passionate, so submissive to his every need. An attack on their outpost leaves Roark fighting for his life. For her protection, Natalie is transported back to Earth. Roark thinks she’s dead. But she’s very much alive and so is his newborn son. Natalie’s anger and regret grows with each passing day her mate does not keep his promise to come for her. By the time he discovers his mistake, it may be too late to win back her heart.
Her Mate’s Secret Baby is a stand-alone sci-fi romance with a HEA and no cliffhangers. You do not need to read the other books in the series to enjoy this one. Enjoy! ~ Grace
Read the First Chapter FREE on my website at https://goo.gl/10OpsU
HER MATE’S SECRET BABY
Interstellar Brides Book 9
By GRACE GOODWIN
Excerpt
Councilor Roark, Outpost Two, Southern Continent, Planet Trion
My beautiful mate lay on the transport pad, unconscious and surrounded by curious eyes. I stood to my full height and crossed my arms over my chest.
“Byran!”
The young man stepped forward, shoulders back, chin up. “Yes, Councilor?”
“Find the doctor and bring her here. Immediately.”
“And your parents?”
Fark. I’d forgotten them in the surprise. They’d journeyed to the outpost to meet my mate. Eager for me to continue the line of Trion leaders with the next generation, they’d pressured me to take a bride, a political match. As the dutiful son, I’d allowed them to parade women before me for months. My position as councilor ensured I could have chosen almost any bride from the capital, but I found I did not enjoy their calculating looks or false humility. They were women born to powerful families, pampered and protected. Arrogant and entitled. When my mother insisted I choose one of them, I’d refused, and my father, for once, had taken my side against his mate. He understood my desire for a woman all my own. He wanted for me what he had enjoyed these last years, a true mate, one perfectly matched to me, as my mother had been to him. And so, I’d attempted to please my parents, my agreeing to take a mate, but one of my own choosing. One matched to me. A perfect match.
I looked to Byran, who waited patiently, his hands clasped in front of his waist.
“Yes, alert them of her arrival.” As much as I wanted to meet my bride alone, I knew that was not possible. Not here, at Outpost Two. We’d be swarmed with curious eyes, my mother’s at the front of the line.
Byran knew nothing of my inner turmoil. I kept my face carefully blank as he bowed and dashed off.
“As for the rest of you…. out!” I yelled.
The remaining onlookers scurried through the opening in the tent and while I heard them murmuring as they fled, I didn’t listen, for my attention was on my mate before me.
She was asleep. She wasn’t dead, since I could see the slight rise and fall of the robe. I would not leave her on the hard transport deck, so I scooped her up into my arms and carried her over to a chair. I felt no strain lifting her; Earth females seemed to be quite small. I remembered the High Councilor’s mate, Eva, who was also a wisp of a female in comparison to her master, Tark. Sitting down with her tucked against me on my lap, I sighed loudly, allowed my frustration and anger to seep from me now that I finally had her in my arms.
My mate was warm and soft and I leaned down to brush my face over her soft hair. Silky and the prettiest color. Breathing in her scent, I closed my eyes. This was my mate! Out of the entire universe, she was my perfect match. I was confident in her, even though she had yet to open her eyes. She was mine. I had my parents and one sister to whom I was dedicated, but having a mate call me master was something else entirely. I felt possessiveness swirl through my veins as I held her.
Mine.
Meet Author Grace Goodwin. ..
Once upon a time, a young girl was born into an average, working class family. The wee little girl, convinced she was not an average child but was, in fact, a fairy princess, longed to leave the mundane world behind and live her dreams. She grew up, went to school, and when she’d grown too big to wear tutus and tiaras in public without drawing unwanted attention, turned to writing down her fantasies instead.
Now a bit older, her fantasies have grown to include sexually dominant men who know how to ensure a woman’s pleasure. Grace believes all women should be treated like princesses, in the bedroom and out of it, and writes love stories where men know how to make their women feel pampered, protected and very well taken care of.
She currently lives in Oregon where she spends her days writing, and her nights in the arms of her very own Prince.
Sign up for my mailing list at gracegoodwin.com.
~~~
Links to Grace’s website, blog, books, etc.
Amazon: https://goo.gl/Mu3Lz2
iBooks: https://goo.gl/arypQu
Kobo: https://goo.gl/z4Tdbb
Google: https://goo.gl/Yl5bQe
Smashwords: https://goo.gl/7i4A1i
Amazon UK: https://goo.gl/E1bfX1
Newsletter:
http://bit.ly/GraceGoodwin
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100011365683986
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/luvgracegoodwin
Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15037285.Grace_Goodwin
~~~
Thanks, Grace, for sharing your book with us!
Don’t miss the chance to read this book!
Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Daring to Fall (A Hidden Falls Novel) by T.J. Kline
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!
~~
DARING TO FALL
A Hidden Falls Novel
By T.J. KLINE
Blurb
T.J. Kline returns to Hidden Falls with the sweet and fun story of a small-town firefighter and the stubborn woman who refuses to fall for his charms.
Emma Jordan has returned home after her father’s death to run the animal sanctuary that had been his legacy. But strange things start happening, and it seems that someone is out to shut her down, someone who doesn’t mind putting lives in jeopardy to see it through. When Hidden Falls’ sexiest fireman starts to ask questions, Emma needs to make sure his charm doesn’t distract her from keeping her dreams alive.
Ben McQuaid has an obligation as a local fireman to protect the community, even from a well-meaning wildlife veterinarian who’s in way over her head. But, it’s becoming hard to keep his loyalty to the town and his desire for the pretty vet separate. As Ben and Emma become caught in a dangerous game of cat and mouse, their feelings for each other are growing.
Will they let duty drive them apart or will they dare to fall?
DARING TO FALL
A Hidden Falls Novel
By T.J. KLINE
Excerpt
“Hey, Ben, I have a favor to ask.”
Ben McQuaid rolled his eyes skyward. Of course, his brother Andrew needed another favor. Lately, Ben seemed to be the one doing the favors more often than receiving any. But, that’s what brothers did for one another, right? And with six siblings, most of them younger, that added up to be a lot of favors.
“Make it quick, I’m on my way into the fire station for my shift.”
“Good, because this is more of an official call than a favor anyway. I need you to head down to the Quinn place on Mosquito Road. Apparently, there’s a cat stuck in a tree. It seems stupid to call it in to the firehouse and drag the engine out for a cat. See? I’m actually doing you a favor and saving you all that cleaning and polishing you have to do just for driving a truck out of the garage.”
They’d be cleaning the engine anyway. Plus, without an engine, Ben had no ladder to get up the tree. “So, what you’re suggesting is that I shimmy up the tree the way I did when we were ten to get the football you and Grant would get stuck.”
Andrew’s chuckle sounded through the receiver. “Pretty much. Look, the call just came in from dispatch and you’ve got to drive by there on your way into town anyway. No sense in making it an official call.”
There was nothing about this that was a favor for Ben. “What’s wrong, is there an apple fritter with your name on it? This way you save yourself the effort of having to fill out another police report, right?” Andrew wasn’t fooling him.
“There’s that too.” Ben heard Andrew address someone else in the background. “Hey, I have to run. There’s a domestic dispute at the winery. You got this, right?”
“Yeah, I’ll take care of it,” Ben said with a sigh.
“Thanks. I owe you one.”
“One?” Ben muttered to himself as the receiver disconnected in his ear and he took the turn off onto Mosquito Road. “You owe me more than that.”
He wasn’t looking forward to this. Hollister Quinn was one of those old guys who spoke his mind, loudly and often. He’d been the first in line to protest the latest upgrades being done to spruce up their small foothill town. Said he liked it rustic, the way it’d been for years and that it should stay that way. However, now that there was talk about Hidden Falls trying to become more of a tourist attraction along the way to Tahoe, an idea that would bring higher profits for local businesses which, in turn, kept the town thriving, Quinn was complaining even more. A visit with Quinn, even to retrieve a kitten, was sure to bring a lengthy lecture about how the people of Hidden Falls were selling out. Ben rubbed the knots of tension already building at the back of his neck.
Pulling into the circular driveway in front of the Quinn house, he maneuvered his pickup between several other vehicles, none of which were Hollister’s. A crowd was already gathered under one of the tall pines in the front yard.
“Great,” the old man complained as Ben edged closer to the chaos. “Please, tell me you’re here to do something productive, not just here to gawk like everyone else. I need someone to get that damn thing outta my tree.” He pointed to where a tabby kitten yowled loudly from a high branch on the tree.
Ben squinted, following the old man’s gaze. “Are you sure that’s a cat? It doesn’t look—”
“What else would it be?” Quinn rolled his eyes before glaring at Ben and shoving him toward the god-awful howling the cat in the tree was making. “Do your job, fireman, and get that thing down.” He turned away, muttering something about the woman running the animal sanctuary down the road but Ben didn’t quite catch it and he wasn’t about to risk having the old man rip him a new one again.
“Sure thing, Mr. Quinn,” Ben agreed, wondering again why he’d wanted to be a firefighter. Sweating it out with the cattle on his parents’ ranch sounded a hell of a lot better right now than climbing a tree to get the shit clawed out of him by a frightened kitten.
He glanced around at the large group of neighbors that had come to watch, curious at the interest for a simple kitten stuck in a tree. It wasn’t a big enough deal to warrant this sort of hullabaloo. The kitten yowled louder and Ben had just lifted his foot onto the ladder Quinn had left braced against the side of the tree when Ellie Quinn, the old man’s daughter, hurried to his side.
“Ben, I’m sorry. I tried to get my dad to just leave the poor thing alone, but you know how he is.” She shot him a coy smile and her eyelashes fluttered.
Ellie was a nice woman. The same age as his younger sister and obviously interested in him. She was sweet, kind to everyone she met, a member of the local women’s shelter planning committee and generous to a fault. In fact, she was exactly what he wanted in a woman, plus she had a “girl next door” quality that made her adorable. His mother had been trying to set them up for months, reminding him that he should be giving her grandchildren before she was too old to enjoy them. The problem was, Ben wasn’t attracted to Ellie at all. He wanted to be, but every time he was around her, there was no stirring in him, no warm fuzzies like he’d had with other women. Nothing to get a rise out of him, so to speak, at all. It was almost like he wanted to continually find himself getting screwed over by crazy women. “Don’t worry about it, Ellie,” he said, waving a hand in her direction and looking up the tree. “I’ll just get this guy down and he’ll take off back home.” Ben wasn’t nearly as confident about his ability to get the cat down as he sounded but Ellie was sweet. He couldn’t blame her for her cantankerous father.
She cocked her head and gave him a confused look. “Oh. Um, okay.”
Putting one foot over the other as he climbed the ladder, trying to ignore the jeers and shouts from below, Ben pulled himself into a fork in the tree, hanging his legs over the branch as he straddled it. He could barely see the spotted fluffy coat of the kitten but, from what he could see, it was definitely young. He’d never understand how a stupid animal could get itself into a tree but couldn’t get back out. Then again, it wasn’t like people didn’t get themselves into some pretty precarious positions they couldn’t figure their way out of.
Tucking his feet under him so he was squatting on the limb, grateful for the heavy tread of his work boots, Ben reach for a thick branch to his right, using it to swing him to the V beside where the cat was hiding. The gasp from the onlookers below nearly made him laugh. Sure, falling would be painful but the fifteen-foot landing into mulch couldn’t hurt any more than the second story floor of an old farmhouse collapsing from under him during a call and dropping him into the concrete basement below. Those two fractured ribs had hurt like hell.
Straddling the second branch, he watched the kitten for a moment. The poor animal was scared out of its mind. Its big blue eyes were round with fear and, from this vantage point, he could see that it was a matted mess. Tiny claws clung to the rippled bark of the tree and he wondered how he was possibly going to convince the frightened animal to let go without his very vulnerable bare arm replacing the tree trunk under its claws.
“Here, kitty,” he called quietly. The cat turned toward him and he saw the unmistakable black tufts over the kitten’s ears. It turned away again, edging out onto the branch and he saw the stubby tail.
Holy crap, that is not a cat. It’s a freakin’ bobcat kitten.
“Shit,” he muttered. “That damn brother of mine owes me big time.”
Meet Author T.J. Kline.
..
T.J. Kline was bitten by the horse bug early and began training horses at fourteen—as well as competing in rodeos and winning several rodeo queen competitions—but has always known writing was her first love. She also writes under the name Tina Klinesmith. In her spare time, she can be found spending as many hours as possible laughing hysterically with her husband, teens, and their menagerie of pets in Northern California. That is, when she isn’t running around the California Gold Country researching new stories.
~~~
Links to T.J.’s website, blog, books, etc.
Link to Follow Tour:
http://tastybooktours.com/tours-master/2016/12/12/daring-to-fall-hidden-falls-2-by-tj-kline
Goodreads Link:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30166231-dare-to-fall
Goodreads Series Link:
https://www.goodreads.com/series/181009-hidden-falls
Buy Links: AMAZON | B & N | GOOGLE | ITUNES | KOBO
Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS
~~~
Thanks, T.J., for sharing your book with us!
Don’t miss the chance to read this book!
January 15, 2017
**Author Peek** Interview with Janet Elizabeth Lynn & Will Zeilinger, Desert Ice (A Skylar Drake Mystery)
**Author Peek** Interview with
JANET ELIZABETH LYNN & WILL ZEILINGER!
INTRODUCING…Janet & Will.
Before we get started talking about your writing, tell us a little about yourself, where you’re from, what you do for a living (if you’re not a full – time writer) what hobbies you have, etc. Whatever you’d like to share to introduce yourself.
We are a married couple who write together. Desert Ice is our third book in the Skylar Drake Murder Mystery series. And yes, we are still married!
1. How much of your characters/plot are drawn from your life?
J-Many of my sub plots begin with the people I meet. However the main plot usually begins to simmer when I start the research into the story and the locale. For example: when researching Desert Ice I had the opportunity to interview the daughter of a mobster who lived Las Vegas in 1955. I also spent time with a former dancer who danced in shows during this time. Both of them gave me a real sense for the book.
W- A lot of my ideas come from people watching and eavesdropping. I lead a mundane life. I must say, however, the interviews we had for Desert Ice, was the key to this story.
2. What is best to write from, real settings or fictional settings?
J-When I first started writing in 2001 I would have said fictional settings. However, looking over the extensive travels I have been honored to do, real settings are the best. That includes the culture, history, food and local people. Best ways to find characters are spending time with the locals and enjoying food with them
W- Many times I’ve seen news stories that are so incredulous that I know if I had written them my readers would say, “That could never happen”. Real life is very weird.
3. What was the most awkward situation you experienced when discussing your book?
J- My sister, my 8 year old niece, Jenny, and I were enjoying a day at the beach when we ran into some friends I hadn’t seen for years. We talked for a while and I told them about my new book, Desert Ice and how I write murder mysteries. The next day, my niece went to school, and during sharing time about families she stated, “My Auntie and Uncle are famous, they kill people.” My sister got a call from the teacher that day. The next day the teachers got 30 phone calls from parents after their children went home and told them about Jenny’s famous aunt and uncle.
W- We were in Phoenix for the Left Coast Crime Conference. On our way to our hotel room we were stopped by two women who overheard us discussing our next book. They jumped back and said, “You-you’re real-real authors!” Janet and I had never experienced anything like that before. It was very awkward.
4. What city, state or country would you visit over and over again?
J-The Hawaiian Island are such amazing places! There is a special spirit about the islands. We spent a week on Molokai to write Strange Markings, the second book in this series. It was the only island that hadn’t changed since 1950s. The island and the locals gave us the story from start to finish.
W- Right here in Southern California. We have Hollywood, Los Angeles, San Diego, mountains, beach, desert and so many diverse cultures. I sometimes think why go far? It’s all here.
5. Why do you write fictional characters?
J- Fictional!?! What fictional characters?? My characters come from real people I’ve encountered over the years of travel. It never ceases to amaze me how interesting people can be once you get to know them. The world is full of great characters and their “subplots”.
W- Aside from legal reasons, I find that making my characters how I want them is a joy.
6. Where and how do you write?
J-I write anywhere I can: backs of forms, napkins, scratch paper, receipts, etc. When ideas hit I have to write them down immediately or I forget. Then I transfer my notes to the computer and have at the scene.
W- Usually in the morning after exercising. We built an office in the back of our house that is perfect for writing.
7. Where do you get most of your creative thoughts for your book?
J- Inspiration comes in the most surprising places. Several weeks ago I was stuck in the middle of a draft. I knew where it had to go but couldn’t figure out how to get there. I decided to take a break and went grocery shopping. I dropped a large plastic bottle of tomato juice on my foot and immediately knew exactly what to do to make it work. Who knew I had brain cells in my big toe!
W- I keep a pad on my bed stand so the dreams I have can be recorded for “future reference”. Sometimes they make no sense until I sit down and write, then they come alive.
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Be sure to come back to learn more about Janet and Will and their novel, DESERT ICE on Wednesday’s Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog.
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Links to Janet & Will’s website, blog, books, etc.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2ilox4O
Barnes & Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/desert-ice-janet-elizabeth-lynn/1125431307?ean=2940153939834
Janet Elizabeth Lynn Website:
www.janetlynnauthor.com
Will Zeilinger Amazon Author Page:
www.willzeilingerauhor.com
~~~
**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Janet and Will are giving away an ebook copy of DESERT ICE to two lucky readers who comment on their Author Peek Interview or Killer Book Bench blogs. Good luck!
Thanks, Janet & Will, for sharing your book with us!
Don’t miss the chance to read this book!
January 12, 2017
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s: Four-Peppercorn Steak
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 FOUR-PEPPERCORN STEAK!
I was never much for huge pepper flavors until I had a peppercorn steak at my favorite German restaurant when I was a teenager. I loved it so much I’d order it every time we went there. Alas, they closed down and I was forced to find a close facsimile of the flavors. This recipe isn’t exactly like the steak I remember but it makes my taste buds happy when I’m craving peppercorn steak.
I hope you enjoy today’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy eating!
Karen
P.S. We’re at 293 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.
FOUR-PEPPERCORN STEAK
[Serves 4]
1 T. peppercorns
1 T. green peppercorns
1 T. pink peppercorns
1 T. white peppercorns
¾ lb. whole green beans
½ lb. baby carrots, pared
8 sm. red potatoes, un-pared & quartered
½ lb. mushrooms, quartered
4 rib-eye steak (3/4”)
2 minced shallots
3 T. butter
½ cup dry sherry
½ pint cherry tomatoes
¼ cup warmed brandy
Place peppercorns in heavy plastic bag. With rolling pin, crush peppercorns. Mix with 1 tsp. salt. Rub into both sides of steak. In skillet, over med-high heat, melt 1 T. butter in 1 T. oil. Sauté steaks about 5 minutes, turning once. Remove steaks from heat, keep warm. In same skillet, melt remaining 2 T. butter. Add vegetables and ½ tsp. salt. Sauté 5 minutes. Add sherry, bring to boil. Simmer, covered, 5 minutes or more until tender. Return steaks to skillet. Add cherry tomatoes; heat through. Pour brandy over steaks. Carefully set aflame with lighted match held to one side of inside edge of skillet. With long-handled tongs, turn steaks until flaming stops. Serve with vegetables and hot, crusty bread.
Happy Eating!
