Davee Jones's Blog, page 41
May 6, 2013
Ahhh, The Sound of Laughter in the Spooky Woods - Tuesday Tales and Sasquatch
Ahoy Fellow Fathomers! Happy Tuesday! It's time for another edition of Tuesday Tales. This week we have a delicious word prompt- "laughter". Today we visit our lovebirds from Finding Love and Bigfoot, the second in the Critter Getter series.
“Kalista shivered in the cool autumn air with Caleb’s sentence. She rubbed her arms and returned a question. “What about us talking makes us so crazy?”
Caleb thought for a moment before answering quizzically. “It’s part of the fun, right? The anxiety, anticipation…you know, like Thumper in Bambi. He called it twitterpated.”
“Twitterpated? Yes, I remember that scene now. I can identify with that. But, you have your own business. You chase Bigfoots and mean fish underwater. Us talking should not be this complicated.”
They both burst into laughter. “It definitely should not be this complicated.” Caleb decided, before taking Kalista’s hand in his own. “Thank you for being my new friend.”
“I do look forward to getting to know you much better.”
Caleb resumed the activity of getting the perishable groceries stacked together. “But, you know, that does mean at least one thing.”
“And that one thing would be what?”
“You need to come camping with us as often as you can.”
“You’re a smooth talker, Mr. Caleb. Why should I come camping with you as often as I can?”
“Because I want to see you.” Caleb stated simply before gently ruffling her hair. “I promise to take you on a real date when this season’s over.”
“There is nothing wrong with how we hang out now. I don’t find it deficient at all.” Kalista lifted some items to help Caleb.
“Deficient, I like that. Well, I mean I don’t like being deficient, but, I know that’s not what you meant.” Caleb struggled to maintain his cool composure and kept his deepest thought to himself; I hope you don’t get bored with me and my simple life.
Instead, Kalista merely laughed and reached forward to hug Caleb in a quick, awkward embrace before grabbing a handful of camping food to return to the cabin. She dashed off before he could say anything aloud.
Standing still in disbelief, only one word ran though his mind – wow."
My debut in Sweet Romance happens this week! I'm writing as Allee Mae, and you can read the first book in the Critter Getter series! I present Finding Love Under a Rock....
Blurb:Kalista Bristow and Leandra Lehigh moved to Oklahoma not just to attend nursing school, but, to find some adventure. When Leandra reads about the sport of “noodling”, she is literally “hooked’, and reserves top-notch guides, Caleb Chandler and Owen Guthrie, to give them a true southern experience. Wading through the murky river, Kalista finds herself drawn to the handsome Caleb and his red-dirt good looks. He manages a few shy glances in her direction, intrigued by her tenacity. Could this cute city girl bring him out of his awkward insecurity when it comes to dating? However, thoughts of blossoming love move to the wayside as the girls find more than they bargained for under the surface of that shadowy river. They must rely on Caleb and Owen to keep them safe, all the while beginning to believe the mysterious legends the guys have been telling them are probably all true.Excerpt:Kalista’s stomach churned nervously as her eyes darted around. Sunlight danced off the ripples in the water that their movements created. Is that us making those waves, or something just below the surface? “Crap, should I watch where I step?”“That’s sort of a problem. You can’t watch anywhere you move. So, you just better hope you make the right step.” Caleb said solemnly. “How far out do we have to go? The water is getting colder the further out we get. Besides, how can we get to the bank to get out if we do get into trouble?” Panic teemed in Kalista’s voice. “I don’t like water I can’t see into.”“Hey, roomie, calm down. Good grief, we haven’t even started yet.” Leandra finally sounded exasperated with Kalista’s irrational fear. “Would you just enjoy yourself and get over being a baby already? Not everything has to be a swimming pool with pristine water to be safe.” “Girls, girls, focus. You are both right in your own way. This is more than a simple excursion—it’s time we start paying attention to our surroundings.”“Okay, so, we need to be one with the fish?” Leandra asked seriously as she peered down toward the water.Kalista rolled her eyes. “Sheesh Lea, as if you could see anything through this brown tinged river water.” She looked more closely, realizing how intent Leandra appeared. “You really are getting in tune with your aquatic side, aren’t you?”“We paid for this expedition so you’re darn right I’m getting in touch with my inner Ictalurus punctatus.”Owen furrowed his brow toward Leandra. “What the heck is an ictaluruhhh…icta…icta-walruses or whatever you just said?”“Owen, let me apologize for Leandra, leave it to the bookworm to use the scientific name for a channel catfish.” Kalista replied with amusement in her tone.“You knew what I meant when I said it. What’s that say about you?” Leandra shot back triumphantly.Caleb interjected into the banter. “Girls, we are actually not looking for Ictalurus punctatus. We are searching for Pylodictis olivari, a flathead catfish.”
Finding Love Under a Rock Buy Links:
http://www.amazon.com/Finding-Under-Critter-Getter-ebook/dp/B00CH9FO80/ref=la_B00CIY3EA4_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1366917657&sr=1-1
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/finding-love-under-a-rock-allee-mae/1115181269?ean=2940016752846 https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/309318
http://store.sweetcravingspublishing.com/index.php?main_page=book_info&cPath=4&products_id=157&zenid=0b6b8023b3dd79126c339d3d50c31133
https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-findingloveunderarock-1169655-149.html
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17827683-finding-love-under-a-rock
Now that you've read my contribution to TT, please visit my creative friends over at our main blog, Tuesday Tales for their take on the word prompt "laughter".
“Kalista shivered in the cool autumn air with Caleb’s sentence. She rubbed her arms and returned a question. “What about us talking makes us so crazy?”
Caleb thought for a moment before answering quizzically. “It’s part of the fun, right? The anxiety, anticipation…you know, like Thumper in Bambi. He called it twitterpated.”
“Twitterpated? Yes, I remember that scene now. I can identify with that. But, you have your own business. You chase Bigfoots and mean fish underwater. Us talking should not be this complicated.”
They both burst into laughter. “It definitely should not be this complicated.” Caleb decided, before taking Kalista’s hand in his own. “Thank you for being my new friend.”
“I do look forward to getting to know you much better.”
Caleb resumed the activity of getting the perishable groceries stacked together. “But, you know, that does mean at least one thing.”
“And that one thing would be what?”
“You need to come camping with us as often as you can.”
“You’re a smooth talker, Mr. Caleb. Why should I come camping with you as often as I can?”
“Because I want to see you.” Caleb stated simply before gently ruffling her hair. “I promise to take you on a real date when this season’s over.”
“There is nothing wrong with how we hang out now. I don’t find it deficient at all.” Kalista lifted some items to help Caleb.
“Deficient, I like that. Well, I mean I don’t like being deficient, but, I know that’s not what you meant.” Caleb struggled to maintain his cool composure and kept his deepest thought to himself; I hope you don’t get bored with me and my simple life.
Instead, Kalista merely laughed and reached forward to hug Caleb in a quick, awkward embrace before grabbing a handful of camping food to return to the cabin. She dashed off before he could say anything aloud.
Standing still in disbelief, only one word ran though his mind – wow."
My debut in Sweet Romance happens this week! I'm writing as Allee Mae, and you can read the first book in the Critter Getter series! I present Finding Love Under a Rock....
Blurb:Kalista Bristow and Leandra Lehigh moved to Oklahoma not just to attend nursing school, but, to find some adventure. When Leandra reads about the sport of “noodling”, she is literally “hooked’, and reserves top-notch guides, Caleb Chandler and Owen Guthrie, to give them a true southern experience. Wading through the murky river, Kalista finds herself drawn to the handsome Caleb and his red-dirt good looks. He manages a few shy glances in her direction, intrigued by her tenacity. Could this cute city girl bring him out of his awkward insecurity when it comes to dating? However, thoughts of blossoming love move to the wayside as the girls find more than they bargained for under the surface of that shadowy river. They must rely on Caleb and Owen to keep them safe, all the while beginning to believe the mysterious legends the guys have been telling them are probably all true.Excerpt:Kalista’s stomach churned nervously as her eyes darted around. Sunlight danced off the ripples in the water that their movements created. Is that us making those waves, or something just below the surface? “Crap, should I watch where I step?”“That’s sort of a problem. You can’t watch anywhere you move. So, you just better hope you make the right step.” Caleb said solemnly. “How far out do we have to go? The water is getting colder the further out we get. Besides, how can we get to the bank to get out if we do get into trouble?” Panic teemed in Kalista’s voice. “I don’t like water I can’t see into.”“Hey, roomie, calm down. Good grief, we haven’t even started yet.” Leandra finally sounded exasperated with Kalista’s irrational fear. “Would you just enjoy yourself and get over being a baby already? Not everything has to be a swimming pool with pristine water to be safe.” “Girls, girls, focus. You are both right in your own way. This is more than a simple excursion—it’s time we start paying attention to our surroundings.”“Okay, so, we need to be one with the fish?” Leandra asked seriously as she peered down toward the water.Kalista rolled her eyes. “Sheesh Lea, as if you could see anything through this brown tinged river water.” She looked more closely, realizing how intent Leandra appeared. “You really are getting in tune with your aquatic side, aren’t you?”“We paid for this expedition so you’re darn right I’m getting in touch with my inner Ictalurus punctatus.”Owen furrowed his brow toward Leandra. “What the heck is an ictaluruhhh…icta…icta-walruses or whatever you just said?”“Owen, let me apologize for Leandra, leave it to the bookworm to use the scientific name for a channel catfish.” Kalista replied with amusement in her tone.“You knew what I meant when I said it. What’s that say about you?” Leandra shot back triumphantly.Caleb interjected into the banter. “Girls, we are actually not looking for Ictalurus punctatus. We are searching for Pylodictis olivari, a flathead catfish.”
Finding Love Under a Rock Buy Links:
http://www.amazon.com/Finding-Under-Critter-Getter-ebook/dp/B00CH9FO80/ref=la_B00CIY3EA4_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1366917657&sr=1-1
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/finding-love-under-a-rock-allee-mae/1115181269?ean=2940016752846 https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/309318
http://store.sweetcravingspublishing.com/index.php?main_page=book_info&cPath=4&products_id=157&zenid=0b6b8023b3dd79126c339d3d50c31133
https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-findingloveunderarock-1169655-149.html
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17827683-finding-love-under-a-rock
Now that you've read my contribution to TT, please visit my creative friends over at our main blog, Tuesday Tales for their take on the word prompt "laughter".
Published on May 06, 2013 22:00
May 3, 2013
Saturday Sippers in The Locker
Saturday Sippers in The LockerAhoy Fellow Fathomers! Welcome to the feature here in The Locker called Saturday Sippers. Each week I’ll post a new skinny cocktail recipe for you to try. Many thinks to my Cali Bestie, Rhonda, for providing me with the deck of cards recipe book. J Blah blah blah, yes, you heard most of this last Saturday, and the big day came and went, I’m still cool. The sequel to my pre-birthday Saturday Sipper happens now. Soooo, my birthday fell smack dab in between two Saturdays. How lame was my birthday on a Wednesday? – ONLY AS LAME AS I WOULD HAVE ALLOWED IT TO BE! -Does this mean I get to celebrate both weekends, as the timing is equitable? I say Yes! To properly recognize such a monumental event as a birthday, I present my ten honorable mention favorite drinks. Some of these are alcohol free because I can’t be blotto all the time. I drink water daily, trying for at least the recommended 64 ozs, but, I won’t include that on the list, because, it’s a gimme. 10. Chocolate banana shake from Braums9. Coors Light, I prefer a bottle to a can8. A good red wine blend from the Russian River Valley 7. 7-up6. Blueberry Red Bull, found it at 7-115. Mojito4. Throwback Pepsi3. A nice crisp Moscato (don’t be a snob cause it’s sweet wine) 2. The Pink Stink (not sure you can handle the recipe)1. When The Husband makes and brings me a cup of coffee
THE NUMBER 5 MOJITO! IngredientsIce 6 ounces light rum12 mint sprigs, or spearmint, 8 roughly broken apart6 tablespoons fresh lime juice4 tablespoons sugarClub soda4 slices limeDirectionsPlace ice in beverage shaker then add in the rum, 8 broken up mint sprigs, lime juice and sugar. Shake well and serve over ice in a high ball glass. Top off each glass with a splash of club soda.Garnish each with a slice of lime and a sprig of mint
THE NUMBER 5 MOJITO! IngredientsIce 6 ounces light rum12 mint sprigs, or spearmint, 8 roughly broken apart6 tablespoons fresh lime juice4 tablespoons sugarClub soda4 slices limeDirectionsPlace ice in beverage shaker then add in the rum, 8 broken up mint sprigs, lime juice and sugar. Shake well and serve over ice in a high ball glass. Top off each glass with a splash of club soda.Garnish each with a slice of lime and a sprig of mint
Published on May 03, 2013 22:00
May 1, 2013
Take a Walk with author, Sarah Cass
Today in The Locker I welcome the beautiful and talented, Sarah Cass. If you’ve not read anything by Sarah, including her blog, I strongly encourage you to take a trip into her world. She weaves words wonderfully. And now, without further delay, Sarah takes over--
A Most Disturbing Place
Last November I was carrying on a conversation with my mother. We were killing time while my son was having some tests run during his hospital stay, and talk drifted to my writing.
I was regaling my mom with what I thought were humorous stories of my contracted novels and characters.
I talked about my first novel, Changing Tracks (Dominion Falls #1), and the torment my heroine, Jane goes through. About her amnesia and the maniac hot on her tail. About the romance that’s woven through and the hilarious wit both the hero and heroine possess.
After that I slipped into talk about Masked Hearts. I waxed a little nostalgic over the details of the Bear River Massacre and the horrors suffered by the main character I had created as a survivor of the event.
Then, I mentioned my latest idea (and now current WIP). I told her about the world I envisioned, the dark urban fantasy setting of Morgana – with hints of steampunk and fractured fairy tales. I told her about Red, the heroine of this world and the role she plays in it.
After about fifteen minutes of listening to me, my mother had an odd look on her face. Her brows pinched, her lips pursed and she just sat staring at me.
When she finally breached the silence it was to announce, “Your mind disturbs me sometimes, Sarah. It really does.”
~wipes a tear~ It was the best compliment she ever gave me.
My mind is a disturbing place to visit. My tales, even my romance, almost all have a darkness to them (if not darkness and horror – there is still drama enough).
One of my favorite things to hear from my readers is that they’ve been ripped up by my story and I need to write more because they have to know what happens.
I use my stories as an outlet for the chaos in my real life. I love to write fantastical stories of drama and pain that all end in a happy ending (well, except my horrors…those don’t get happy endings). I like my characters flawed and real, they will make mistakes, and almost all of them will learn from them.
My mind needs to be a disturbing place – because it’s where the drama, the heart of the story, comes from.
What about you? Have you ever read a novel and worried over the sanity of the author?

Blurb:Minnie Woodward lives a lie. After barely surviving the Bear River Massacre she’s lived in the white world of her guardian Mister Rawlins, her life debt keeping her tied there. The last thing she needs is Roy’s attempts to gain her favor. Her fate’s sealed. She’s never believed in hope, and not even Roy can make her start.
Roy Ornum saves Minnie every night in the traveling Wild West show. The job he took to break his gambling habit brought him a new addiction – her. He knows she doesn’t want to be rescued, but maybe he does. She’s the key to a past he lost, one he wants to find again.
As the two grow closer old wounds are reopened and their burgeoning trust is shattered. When lives hang in the balance of their choices they’ll need to work together. Otherwise everything will be lost before hope can be found.
Buy Links:Sweet Cravings Website - http://bit.ly/12z5EuCAmazon - http://amzn.to/ZYH9CPBarnes & Noble - http://bit.ly/18a4Gr7All Romance Ebooks - http://bit.ly/12MaZ0K
Excerpt:Minnie couldn’t breathe, couldn’t see anything but their linked fingers. A simple gesture, but one that could get them in so much trouble if seen not only by the crowd, but by Mister as well. Still, she couldn’t manage to pull away. All she wanted to do was stay right there. Or maybe even take it further. She let her fingers move toward his and he did the same until their fingers laced together. Slowly she turned her head. His light amber eyes twinkled, a smile lifting his cheeks until the corners of his eyes crinkled. “I thought so.”The crushing pressure on her chest released, and the unfamiliar tension of a real smile pinched her cheeks. The rest of the world no longer mattered now that she could stare into the eyes of one of her own people. A giddy skip to her heart and she dared to lean closer to him, dared to let the smile remain when she should have tried to erase it. “I don’t know how it could be true. But yes, that’s what I called the boy. Called you. You’re him, you are White Tail.”“And now my dearest charge, the young woman that’s like a daughter to me, will display her trust in my skills.” The unfamiliar words of Mister ripped at the fleeting sense of relief. His face held no hint of its usual patronizing smile when he approached. “Won’t you, Minnie?”Minnie couldn’t manage to shove away the shock, she couldn’t even blink. Never had Mister used his sharpshooter skills with her as a target. That action was reserved for people he didn’t trust. She yanked her hand from Roy’s grasp, but she knew it was already too late. A fleeting, desperate idea to plead her innocence emerged, but she ignored it and pushed forward a smile as bright as she ever used for her white woman act. She gave the Mister a nod, even as John pulled her toward the post.Carl came up moments later with an apple. “Foolish child,” he whispered. “Just close your eyes so you don’t see it, and don’t move. He’s using his long shot and one little move could get you hit instead of the apple.”She refused to show him the fear threatening to rip her stomach right out of her body. Instead she grabbed the apple with a small nod. “I understand.”John moved behind her and set his hands on her waist. He kicked at her ankles before pushing them apart. “Wider stance helps you stay more still. Head straight. This is his warning, he won’t hurt you yet. Trust that.”The advice wasn’t necessary, but she appreciated the gesture. After a moment she managed to swallow down the thick lump in her throat. It would do no good to show them her fear. “I’m not an idiot. Go before they think I’m scared.”Despite her harsh words, John squeezed her shoulder in reassurance. Then he and Carl were gone.Mister stood far down the street, the farthest distance he could shoot straight from what she could tell. Though she’d seen him take this shot many times, she’d never been on the receiving end.Back straight, she lifted the apple to her head. In her mind she imagined the fantastical yelling of the Mister as he did before every shot. In reality she heard nothing but her own heartbeat pounding in her ears.Slowly she dropped her hands to her sides, curling her skirt under her fingers. Despite her own internal promise she wouldn’t close her eyes, she did just that.Through the rush of her heartbeat came the crack of the gun. Cool drops of apple and apple juices ran down her nose.
BIO:
Sarah Cass’s world is regularly turned upside down by her three special-needs kids and loving mate, so she breaks genre barriers, dabbling in horror, straight fiction, and urban fantasy. An ADD tendency leaves her with a variety of interests that include singing, dancing, crafting, cooking, and being a photographer. She fights through the struggles of the day, knowing the battles are her crucible and though she may emerge scarred, she’s also stronger. Now officially multi-published, she’s still working on bringing new stories to fill out her year and your reading lists. While busy creating worlds and characters as real to her as her own family, she leads an active online life with her blog, Redefining Perfect , which gives a real and sometimes raw glimpses into her life and art.
Where to find me:Redefining Perfect – http://redefiningperfect.comSarah’s StoryLines – http://authorsarahcass.comTwitter – http://twitter.com/sadiecassFacebook – http://facebook.com/SarahCass.Author
Published on May 01, 2013 06:18
April 26, 2013
Saturday Sippers in The Locker - pre bday edition
Saturday Sippers in The LockerAhoy Fellow Fathomers! Welcome to the feature here in The Locker called Saturday Sippers. Each week I’ll post a new skinny cocktail recipe for you to try. Many thinks to my Cali Bestie, Rhonda, for providing me with the deck of cards recipe book. J Soooo, my birthday falls smack dab in between two Saturdays. How lame is my birthday on a Wednesday? Does this mean I get to celebrate both weekends, as the timing is equitable? I say Yes! To properly recognize such a monumental event as a birthday, I present my top ten favorite drinks. Some of these are alcohol free because I can’t be blotto all the time. I drink water daily, trying for at least the recommended 64 ozs, but, I won’t include that on the list, because, it’s a gimme. 10. Ocean Water from Sonic9. Blackberry tea from Chilis8. Green chile beer from Tommyknockers Brewery 7. Grandma’s Iced Tea6. Dirty Martini, extra olives5. Gin and Tonic, extra lime4. Coconut Latte from Starbucks, Venti, extra coconut3. Beer margaritas 2. R.C. Cola1. (real) Cherry and Lime Dr. Pepper from Sonic or Braums
THE NUMBER 3 BEER MARGARITAS! 4 bottles Miller Chill beer1 can frozen limeaid¾ can of tequila (using the limeaid can)ice
Mix all ingredients well and pour into a red Solo cup at the campground. Prepare for a quick good time. Chase with ibuprofen and Sudafed.
THE NUMBER 3 BEER MARGARITAS! 4 bottles Miller Chill beer1 can frozen limeaid¾ can of tequila (using the limeaid can)ice
Mix all ingredients well and pour into a red Solo cup at the campground. Prepare for a quick good time. Chase with ibuprofen and Sudafed.
Published on April 26, 2013 22:00
April 24, 2013
Are You Bloodthirsty? Welcome Tamara Monteau to The Locker
Hello Fellow Fathomers! Today's special guest is fellow SCP author, Tamara Monteau. To celebrate her new release, she is taking over the Locker and giving YOU the chance to win....take a peek
Thank you for having me on your blog today. I’m excited to announce the release of my fifth novel in the Haven’s Realm series – Secrets & Promises !
To celebrate this event, I’m giving away two e-copies of this latest release. I will select a winner via drawing from among the comments to this post. Because this is a special event, I have sister posts on other blog sites. Each one contains different information, so you’ll want to visit them all! Their links are listed below. Comment on them as well to increase your chances to win!
Secrets & Promises – Haven’s Realm 5Vincent is the primary focus of this story, which reveals the very Heart of the Community. He is not, however, the only who has a secret promise to fulfill. Among the Council of Elders sits Rudolph “Rudy” Graumann, a vampire from Lower Germania with the physical age of fifty-six, who, thirty years ago, made a promise to a young mortal named Lindsey. Just as the Council sits with King Jason to deliberate the fate of Vincent and their hunter, Chari, Rudy receives the summons he’d been waiting for. Excused from his duties in the Reckoning, Rudy flies to Lindsey’s side, but they’re not fated to return at once to the security of Haven. The Savant, a vampire clan involved in the abduction of Ronan’s bride in Dragon Lord, captures Rudy and his chosen mate. While they are held hostage within Blackhawk, the Savant headquarters, they make a startling discovery.In the following excerpt, Lindsey anxiously awaits the return of the older man she fell in love with so many years ago. She has just swallowed the potion Rudy left for her, a magic elixir he had prepared to form a blood bond between them.Excerpt:A lightning bolt could not have rocked her more profoundly. The potion absorbed into her bloodstream in less than a second. An elemental shift in the core of her being left her with a complete lack of equilibrium. She dropped backward into the waiting chair, her head spinning out of control. The vial slipped from her fingers and shattered on the linoleum, making her want to laugh at the horror movie cliché. Should she grasp her throat and gag? No, that would be too dramatic.Warmth filled her in the aftermath of the shock. Calm followed. Then, without acknowledgment, Rudy accepted the bond. She sensed him grasping and securing the newborn connection. His accompanying joy exacerbated her doubts at her own suitability. The small, pessimistic pest inside her mind repeated, Will he still want me?She paced her home in those early hours before dawn with growing unease. Something seemed off, like the sensation one feels in the atmosphere before a violent outburst from Mother Nature—the foreboding calm before a deadly storm. Danger loomed. She didn’t understand how or why she knew, but was almost certain Rudy knew too.An hour short of dawn, she put on her heavy coat and walked her property, hoping to find some trace, some reason for her rising anxiety. Ahead of her, sitting in the tan sedan at the end of her long driveway, was the guard she’d been warned about. She wondered if he was using binoculars. Just how closely was she being watched?Closer than you think.She blinked. For a flash, an instant, she thought she sensed a presence, a creature of intense power and malice, but the sensation was gone as quickly, leaving her doubting the reality. As the darkness of night faded and morning twilight crept across her lawn, the looming danger eased. She clutched her coat closer and wiped the tear dripping down her cheek. Rudy wouldn’t arrive in time. She turned for the warmth of her soon-to-be non-home.Do not react. You are observed.She startled. Her breath caught in her throat, but she accepted the warning and kept from raising her head. She reached along their newborn mental connection. Rudy?I’m here, geliebte. The sun rises. Can you shelter me?I think so, but…Go quietly inside. Turn off all the lights.Lindsey shivered and tugged her collar closer to hide the nervous nod she gave him before turning for her front porch. After closing the door, she tossed her coat at the rack, not caring if it caught, and flew into motion. She assured herself that every door and window was locked except for the backdoor to the kitchen, turned off everything in sight, and closed all the draperies. Then she waited in the living room, staring at the darkness, waiting for a sign of him. Her heart skipped on its programmed beat the moment his silhouette appeared against the pale light growing in the kitchen. A deep shaft of pain drove through her chest, cramping her stomach. She drew her hands to her breast and pressed against the growing pressure.“Hello, Lindsey.”Oh, the softness in his voice, the memories it stirred. She wanted to laugh. She needed to cry. She released her breath in a quick rush and retrieved it in a vain attempt to quell the anxiety. “Rudy.” Her voice was a whisper and carried her doubts. “It’s been a long time.”“Yes, and we’ve precious little at the moment. The sun rises.”She nodded. “There are no windows in the cellar. I-I could bring you a pillow and…?”“Your care for my comfort is touching, but unnecessary. Please do not concern yourself.”She nodded again and drew a shaky breath. “The entrance is off the kitchen, at the head of the rear hallway.”She grew more uncertain. This first meeting was awkward and her rising anxiety was painful. He broke the tension between them by stepping forward, his hand lifting to caress her face. She turned away with a quiet sob.“Do you fear me now, Lindsey?”The sorrow in his voice weighed on the back of her neck like an anvil. A storm was brewing in her chest, causing erratic hitches in her breathing. “The years haven’t been kind. I’m not the woman you knew.”“No.” He put his hands on her shoulders and urged her to return. With the cool tip of one finger under her chin, he lifted her face upward. Her heart lurched at the gentle kindness glowing in his eyes. “The young woman you were all those years ago no longer exists. You were then a promising rosebud, inexperienced and fresh. Now…” He traced her lips with his thumb, shooting an unexpected thrill through her body to her core. “Now you are a woman in the fullness of her maturity, one who has given life and love. Do not doubt what I find before me pleases my eyes,” a soft smile lifted his lips, “and my heart.”* * * *Don’t forget to visit these other blogs and read more excerpts and information about Secrets & Promises!http://marklove024.blogspot.com/Where to find Tamara:Website: http://www.Havens-Realm.comBlogsite: http://havensrealm.wordpress.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/TamaraMonteauFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TamaraMonteauAuthor
Buy Links:Secret Cravings PublishingAmazonBarnes and NobleBookStrand
Thank you for having me on your blog today. I’m excited to announce the release of my fifth novel in the Haven’s Realm series – Secrets & Promises !
To celebrate this event, I’m giving away two e-copies of this latest release. I will select a winner via drawing from among the comments to this post. Because this is a special event, I have sister posts on other blog sites. Each one contains different information, so you’ll want to visit them all! Their links are listed below. Comment on them as well to increase your chances to win!Secrets & Promises – Haven’s Realm 5Vincent is the primary focus of this story, which reveals the very Heart of the Community. He is not, however, the only who has a secret promise to fulfill. Among the Council of Elders sits Rudolph “Rudy” Graumann, a vampire from Lower Germania with the physical age of fifty-six, who, thirty years ago, made a promise to a young mortal named Lindsey. Just as the Council sits with King Jason to deliberate the fate of Vincent and their hunter, Chari, Rudy receives the summons he’d been waiting for. Excused from his duties in the Reckoning, Rudy flies to Lindsey’s side, but they’re not fated to return at once to the security of Haven. The Savant, a vampire clan involved in the abduction of Ronan’s bride in Dragon Lord, captures Rudy and his chosen mate. While they are held hostage within Blackhawk, the Savant headquarters, they make a startling discovery.In the following excerpt, Lindsey anxiously awaits the return of the older man she fell in love with so many years ago. She has just swallowed the potion Rudy left for her, a magic elixir he had prepared to form a blood bond between them.Excerpt:A lightning bolt could not have rocked her more profoundly. The potion absorbed into her bloodstream in less than a second. An elemental shift in the core of her being left her with a complete lack of equilibrium. She dropped backward into the waiting chair, her head spinning out of control. The vial slipped from her fingers and shattered on the linoleum, making her want to laugh at the horror movie cliché. Should she grasp her throat and gag? No, that would be too dramatic.Warmth filled her in the aftermath of the shock. Calm followed. Then, without acknowledgment, Rudy accepted the bond. She sensed him grasping and securing the newborn connection. His accompanying joy exacerbated her doubts at her own suitability. The small, pessimistic pest inside her mind repeated, Will he still want me?She paced her home in those early hours before dawn with growing unease. Something seemed off, like the sensation one feels in the atmosphere before a violent outburst from Mother Nature—the foreboding calm before a deadly storm. Danger loomed. She didn’t understand how or why she knew, but was almost certain Rudy knew too.An hour short of dawn, she put on her heavy coat and walked her property, hoping to find some trace, some reason for her rising anxiety. Ahead of her, sitting in the tan sedan at the end of her long driveway, was the guard she’d been warned about. She wondered if he was using binoculars. Just how closely was she being watched?Closer than you think.She blinked. For a flash, an instant, she thought she sensed a presence, a creature of intense power and malice, but the sensation was gone as quickly, leaving her doubting the reality. As the darkness of night faded and morning twilight crept across her lawn, the looming danger eased. She clutched her coat closer and wiped the tear dripping down her cheek. Rudy wouldn’t arrive in time. She turned for the warmth of her soon-to-be non-home.Do not react. You are observed.She startled. Her breath caught in her throat, but she accepted the warning and kept from raising her head. She reached along their newborn mental connection. Rudy?I’m here, geliebte. The sun rises. Can you shelter me?I think so, but…Go quietly inside. Turn off all the lights.Lindsey shivered and tugged her collar closer to hide the nervous nod she gave him before turning for her front porch. After closing the door, she tossed her coat at the rack, not caring if it caught, and flew into motion. She assured herself that every door and window was locked except for the backdoor to the kitchen, turned off everything in sight, and closed all the draperies. Then she waited in the living room, staring at the darkness, waiting for a sign of him. Her heart skipped on its programmed beat the moment his silhouette appeared against the pale light growing in the kitchen. A deep shaft of pain drove through her chest, cramping her stomach. She drew her hands to her breast and pressed against the growing pressure.“Hello, Lindsey.”Oh, the softness in his voice, the memories it stirred. She wanted to laugh. She needed to cry. She released her breath in a quick rush and retrieved it in a vain attempt to quell the anxiety. “Rudy.” Her voice was a whisper and carried her doubts. “It’s been a long time.”“Yes, and we’ve precious little at the moment. The sun rises.”She nodded. “There are no windows in the cellar. I-I could bring you a pillow and…?”“Your care for my comfort is touching, but unnecessary. Please do not concern yourself.”She nodded again and drew a shaky breath. “The entrance is off the kitchen, at the head of the rear hallway.”She grew more uncertain. This first meeting was awkward and her rising anxiety was painful. He broke the tension between them by stepping forward, his hand lifting to caress her face. She turned away with a quiet sob.“Do you fear me now, Lindsey?”The sorrow in his voice weighed on the back of her neck like an anvil. A storm was brewing in her chest, causing erratic hitches in her breathing. “The years haven’t been kind. I’m not the woman you knew.”“No.” He put his hands on her shoulders and urged her to return. With the cool tip of one finger under her chin, he lifted her face upward. Her heart lurched at the gentle kindness glowing in his eyes. “The young woman you were all those years ago no longer exists. You were then a promising rosebud, inexperienced and fresh. Now…” He traced her lips with his thumb, shooting an unexpected thrill through her body to her core. “Now you are a woman in the fullness of her maturity, one who has given life and love. Do not doubt what I find before me pleases my eyes,” a soft smile lifted his lips, “and my heart.”* * * *Don’t forget to visit these other blogs and read more excerpts and information about Secrets & Promises!http://marklove024.blogspot.com/Where to find Tamara:Website: http://www.Havens-Realm.comBlogsite: http://havensrealm.wordpress.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/TamaraMonteauFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TamaraMonteauAuthor
Buy Links:Secret Cravings PublishingAmazonBarnes and NobleBookStrand
Published on April 24, 2013 09:18
April 19, 2013
Saturday Sippers in The Locker
Saturday Sippers in The LockerAhoy Fellow Fathomers! Welcome to the feature here in The Locker called Saturday Sippers. Each week I’ll post a new skinny cocktail recipe for you to try. Many thinks to my Cali Bestie, Rhonda, for providing me with the deck of cards recipe book. J Rosemary…one of the most pungent, popular herbs. I have two wonderful bushes of rosemary growing just outside my front door. I love the smell after a fresh rain or the wind blows, releasing the aroma throughout the air. This drink sounded absolutely delightful, (even without the alcohol) combining several of my favorite items.ROSEMARY-INFUSED CUCUMBER LEMONADE! 3 large cucumbers1 T chopped fresh rosemary, plus 4 sprigs for garnish1 c water½ c lemon juice3 T agave syrupCucumber slices for garnish
Cut 12 thin slices of cucumber for garnish. Peel and chop remaining cucumber. Puree rosemary and chopped cucumber. Pour the puree through a fine mesh strainer. Add water, lemon juice, and agave syrup to the cucumber juice. Pour into 4 ice-filled glasses. Garnish with cucumber slices and rosemary sprigs. Serves 4. Calories 71!
Cut 12 thin slices of cucumber for garnish. Peel and chop remaining cucumber. Puree rosemary and chopped cucumber. Pour the puree through a fine mesh strainer. Add water, lemon juice, and agave syrup to the cucumber juice. Pour into 4 ice-filled glasses. Garnish with cucumber slices and rosemary sprigs. Serves 4. Calories 71!
Published on April 19, 2013 22:00
April 15, 2013
Tuesday Tales chocolate and a hot campfire....did someone say Paranormal?
Ahoy Fellow Fathomers! Happy Tuesday! It's time for another edition of Tuesday Tales. This week we have a delicious word prompt- "chocolate". Today we visit a campfire from Finding Love and Bigfoot, the second in the Critter Getter series.
“What do you have there, Mr. Caleb?” Leandra laughed, attempting to get a better look at what Caleb held in his fingers.
“Something I hope you sweet tooth connoisseurs haven’t seen yet.” Caleb held up a bag containing fluffy white blobs.
“Okay, dude, we’ve had marshmallows before.” Kalista slightly dipped her head and raised one eyebrow. The campfire light danced across her warm features.
Caleb opened the bag and retrieved a white cylindrical treat almost the size of a tennis ball from the package. “But, have you ever seen them this size?”
“Whoa, that’s amazing!” Leandra rushed forward, one hand outstretched.
“Candy makes it all better, just like when we were kids.” Owen laughed, stirring his own cup of hot chocolate with a small straw. “I don’t think Bigfoot eats candy, our campsite provisions have never been raided.”
“Ugh, I wish you hadn’t said the “B” word, I was just starting to relax.” Kalista shuddered again, her grin fading.
“You gotta work on your girl skills, Owen. Does your girlfriend say “fine” and “okay” a lot?” Leandra questioned him, dropping the large fluffy confection into her cup. Laughing, she moved next to Kalista. “This is awesomeness! It takes up the entire space.” Leandra held her cup toward Kalista, slightly tipping it her direction.
“Attack of the giant marshmallow, classic.” Kalista giggled, getting her own from the bag Caleb still held. She dunked the softness into the creamy chocolate foam, took a small nibble, then dropped it gently into her cup. It bobbed briefly before settling full into the opening. “I can’t even see the liquid!”
“This is the way to enjoy a campfire.” Owen propped his feet up on a utility bucket.
“The others think we are staying up too late.” Leandra jerked her head toward the guest tents. “But, I don’t know how they are sleeping. I’m still too freaked out.”
“They’ve been out here before, and been camping more than once. They probably enjoyed our little scare more than dreaded it.” Caleb threaded a big fat marshmallow on a roasting stick. “We need to follow suit pretty soon, we have an early day ahead of us.”
“I finally don’t feel those weird eyes boring into my back and can enjoy this. I completely understand why people consider camping a nice getaway.” Kalista watched the marshmallow bubble, sizzle from the flames, and then inflate from the heat. “Watching the flames is mesmerizing.”
“It’s like one of those Christmas DVDs with the music set to a fireplace scene. I could watch those for hours and hours.” Leandra offered, monotone from her quasi-hypnosis.
“Tomorrow will be better in the daylight. You’ll feel more secure. We will go check our cameras and investigate that area where we heard the branch break. Let’s finish our cocoa and get some shut eye.”
My debut in Sweet Romance happens this week! I'm writing as Allee Mae, and you can read the first book in the Critter Getter series! I present Finding Love Under a Rock....
Now that you've read my contribution to TT, please visit my creative friends over at our main blog, Tuesday Tales for their take on the word prompt "chocolate".
“What do you have there, Mr. Caleb?” Leandra laughed, attempting to get a better look at what Caleb held in his fingers.
“Something I hope you sweet tooth connoisseurs haven’t seen yet.” Caleb held up a bag containing fluffy white blobs.
“Okay, dude, we’ve had marshmallows before.” Kalista slightly dipped her head and raised one eyebrow. The campfire light danced across her warm features.
Caleb opened the bag and retrieved a white cylindrical treat almost the size of a tennis ball from the package. “But, have you ever seen them this size?”
“Whoa, that’s amazing!” Leandra rushed forward, one hand outstretched.
“Candy makes it all better, just like when we were kids.” Owen laughed, stirring his own cup of hot chocolate with a small straw. “I don’t think Bigfoot eats candy, our campsite provisions have never been raided.”
“Ugh, I wish you hadn’t said the “B” word, I was just starting to relax.” Kalista shuddered again, her grin fading.
“You gotta work on your girl skills, Owen. Does your girlfriend say “fine” and “okay” a lot?” Leandra questioned him, dropping the large fluffy confection into her cup. Laughing, she moved next to Kalista. “This is awesomeness! It takes up the entire space.” Leandra held her cup toward Kalista, slightly tipping it her direction.
“Attack of the giant marshmallow, classic.” Kalista giggled, getting her own from the bag Caleb still held. She dunked the softness into the creamy chocolate foam, took a small nibble, then dropped it gently into her cup. It bobbed briefly before settling full into the opening. “I can’t even see the liquid!”
“This is the way to enjoy a campfire.” Owen propped his feet up on a utility bucket.
“The others think we are staying up too late.” Leandra jerked her head toward the guest tents. “But, I don’t know how they are sleeping. I’m still too freaked out.”
“They’ve been out here before, and been camping more than once. They probably enjoyed our little scare more than dreaded it.” Caleb threaded a big fat marshmallow on a roasting stick. “We need to follow suit pretty soon, we have an early day ahead of us.”
“I finally don’t feel those weird eyes boring into my back and can enjoy this. I completely understand why people consider camping a nice getaway.” Kalista watched the marshmallow bubble, sizzle from the flames, and then inflate from the heat. “Watching the flames is mesmerizing.”
“It’s like one of those Christmas DVDs with the music set to a fireplace scene. I could watch those for hours and hours.” Leandra offered, monotone from her quasi-hypnosis.
“Tomorrow will be better in the daylight. You’ll feel more secure. We will go check our cameras and investigate that area where we heard the branch break. Let’s finish our cocoa and get some shut eye.”
My debut in Sweet Romance happens this week! I'm writing as Allee Mae, and you can read the first book in the Critter Getter series! I present Finding Love Under a Rock....
Now that you've read my contribution to TT, please visit my creative friends over at our main blog, Tuesday Tales for their take on the word prompt "chocolate".
Published on April 15, 2013 22:00
April 12, 2013
Saturday Sippers in The Locker
Saturday Sippers in The LockerAhoy Fellow Fathomers! Welcome to the feature here in The Locker called Saturday Sippers. Each week I’ll post a new skinny cocktail recipe for you to try. Many thinks to my Cali Bestie, Rhonda, for providing me with the deck of cards recipe book. J Saturday the 13th, it doesn’t have the same ring does it? The following cocktail is far from scary and has zero superstition behind it. HOWEVER, the pomegranate does have a special caveat—regarded by some as an aphrodisiac. The website Eat Something Sexy discusses this:“the aphrodisiac power ofpomegranateA prominent player in aphrodisiac lore, pomegranate was regaled as a culinary symbol of Aphrodite by the ancient Greeks. Some say the forbidden fruit of the Bible was not apple at all, but a pomegranate fruit. In other Western lore, the mythological unicorn was tied to a pomegranate tree. Since the early days of the written word, the promise of the pomegranate has made a lasting impression as a sensual symbol, appearing in poetic works of great authors from Homer to Shakespeare”Hmmm, makes that little red fruit more interesting, doesn’t it? I know I load my husband up on pomegranate juice as often as possible. I figure, it’s good for him anyway. J POMEGRANATE MARTINIS! ½ medium orange, cut into wedgesSugar for glass rims1 ½ c vodka or gin1/3 c pomegranate syrup3 T dry vermouthIce cubesStrawberries for garnish
Rub orange wedges around rims of 8 martini glasses. Invert glasses into a dish of sugar to coat rims, set aside. Place ice cubes in shaker, adding the vodka, syrup, and vermouth. Shake well, rotating your hips seductively. Strain into glasses and garnish with strawberry. Add some pom seeds to the martini for fun, but, warn your guests. Serves 8. Calories 146!
Rub orange wedges around rims of 8 martini glasses. Invert glasses into a dish of sugar to coat rims, set aside. Place ice cubes in shaker, adding the vodka, syrup, and vermouth. Shake well, rotating your hips seductively. Strain into glasses and garnish with strawberry. Add some pom seeds to the martini for fun, but, warn your guests. Serves 8. Calories 146!
Published on April 12, 2013 22:00
April 8, 2013
Tuesday Tales takes you to Blue Ink - Embryo
Ahoy Fellow Fathomers! Happy Tuesday! It's time for another edition of Tuesday Tales. This week we had a choice of two word prompts "camera" or "noisy . I chose "camera". Now, please meet this new installment in the Blue Ink series of demon stories. This creepy WIP, Blue Ink - Embryo, begins now with these 366 words.
“Do you have the web cam connected to your computer?” “I think so. This technology confuses me. How come I need to use this web cam instead of taking pictures with my camera and just email the images to you?”“Because, darling, I want to see you in real time. Don’t you want to please me?”“Of course I do! It’s just that…well…I really want to see you in person. We’ve been talking for weeks now.”“I told you, dearest, work has me on the road traveling so much, I haven’t had time. I’m working so much now to give me a long break soon. You know who I’ll be spending this long break with, don’t you?”“Me?” “Of course, kitten, just you. Now, do you want to spend all this time bantering and arguing, or can I finally see you?”Onto his wide computer screen, live feed reflected the image of a beautiful auburn haired woman scantily clad in a white camisole and matching boy shorts. “Hello? Are you there?” She toyed with one strand of hair, hanging demurely across her cheek. “Yes, lovely, you’re wearing the undergarments I sent you. Exquisite.”She twirled back and forth on her swivel chair, smiling into the small round lens. “I love it, and it fits me perfectly. I’ll wear it as often as I can.”“I want to see your smooth stomach, pull the edge of your shirt up so I can see that cute belly button.”She shifted, leaning on the seat with one knee bent and moved the other leg standing to support her frame. Slowly, she moved the fabric of the camisole up to expose the creamy skin of her abdomen. “Most guys want flashes of other body parts.”“I’m not some perverted sex junkie. I want to visualize you carrying my child, isn’t that much more loving?”“You have already imagined me as mother to your children?” Her eyes brightened, and she bit her lower lip. “Yes, love, I have…and you will be splendid.” His body shuddered- the scales covering his exterior flexed and shimmied. Saliva dripped from his curling, wicked smile, sizzling when it hit the floor beneath him.
"Now that you've read my contribution to TT, please visit my creative friends over at our main blog, Tuesday Tales for their take on the word prompt "camera" or "noisy".
Published on April 08, 2013 22:00
April 5, 2013
Saturday Sippers in The Locker
Saturday Sippers in The LockerAhoy Fellow Fathomers! Welcome to the feature here in The Locker called Saturday Sippers. Each week I’ll post a new skinny cocktail recipe for you to try. Many thinks to my Cali Bestie, Rhonda, for providing me with the deck of cards recipe book. J I’m loving the spring. It always makes me want to chill outside on the patio, or soak in the sun. I’ve got a refreshing drink for this early spring 2013Slender Sour-Apple Martini! 1 ¼ oz apple vodka¾ oz sour apple liqueur½ oz apple juiceApple slices for garnish
Mix ingredients in a shaker with ice. Strain into chilled martini glass. Garnish with apple slice. Calories 160!
Mix ingredients in a shaker with ice. Strain into chilled martini glass. Garnish with apple slice. Calories 160!
Published on April 05, 2013 22:00


