Ariella Moon's Blog, page 35
February 28, 2014
Eye of Orion: Laura D. Bastian's New Interplanetary YA Romance
What better way to end our month of romance than with Laura D. Bastian's new novel about a love that crosses time and space?
Book blurb Falling in love with your gorgeous new neighbor isn't a bad thing, but when he turns out to be the bodyguard of a princess from a planet nine billion light-years away, life gets complicated.
Seventeen-year-old stargazer Holly Adams never imagined she’d find herself trying to prevent the overthrow of an alien government. When Jai and his sister Amira move into the house down the street, Holly is immediately drawn to them. Jai acts suspicious of her from the start, making Holly more curious about their oddities. When Holly learns they are from a different planet, she does what she can to help protect Amira from Shander, a man who wants to marry her by force in order to take over the kingdom her father rules.
Mistaken identity, a botched kidnapping, and a first kiss that bonds Holly and Jai for life are hard enough, but when Shander believes Holly to be the princess, things get even more dangerous.
Excerpt “Do you think there could be life out there somewhere on other planets?” he asked quietly.“I do.” I rolled onto my side, and propped myself up with my elbow to see him better.“Intelligent?”“Yes.”“Green?” he asked.“No.” I smiled.“Really? What makes you think there are others out there?”“Why not?” I shrugged with one shoulder. “Why would God stop here? Why not make more? What about you? Do you think there is life out there on other planets?”“I do.”“Green?” I asked.“No. And I am sure they are intelligent,” he said with a small smile.“And what makes you think so?” I asked, returning the smile.He rolled onto his back and looked at the sky. “Because with so much space, there has to be something else like Earth somewhere. It is just so far away you would never find it unless you knew where to look.”“I wish I knew where to look.” I lowered myself onto my side, resting my head on my arm extended straight on the blanket. “The discovery of other worlds out there would be fantastic.”He turned to face me again. “It would be.”
author bio Laura grew up in a small town in central Utah and now lives in another small town in northern Utah. She always loved stargazing and imagining life outside her own little world. Though they grew up only thirty miles apart, she didn’t meet her husband until they went to college. A graduate of Utah State University with a degree in Elementary and Special Education, Laura has been using that training as she raises her children and writes make believe worlds. You can usually find her on her laptop either typing away, or on social media interacting with friends.
Buy linkshttp://www.amazon.com/Eye-On-Orion-Laura-Bastian-ebook/dp/B00IMQ5Q0S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1393355794&sr=8-1&keywords=Laura+D.+Bastian
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/eye-on-orion-laura-d-bastian/1118735673?ean=2940148195894
Connect with Laura
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLauraDBastianWebsite: http://www.lauradbastian.com/
Amazon Author page. http://www.amazon.com/Laura-D.-Bastian/e/B00IN866CW
Book blurb Falling in love with your gorgeous new neighbor isn't a bad thing, but when he turns out to be the bodyguard of a princess from a planet nine billion light-years away, life gets complicated.
Seventeen-year-old stargazer Holly Adams never imagined she’d find herself trying to prevent the overthrow of an alien government. When Jai and his sister Amira move into the house down the street, Holly is immediately drawn to them. Jai acts suspicious of her from the start, making Holly more curious about their oddities. When Holly learns they are from a different planet, she does what she can to help protect Amira from Shander, a man who wants to marry her by force in order to take over the kingdom her father rules.
Mistaken identity, a botched kidnapping, and a first kiss that bonds Holly and Jai for life are hard enough, but when Shander believes Holly to be the princess, things get even more dangerous.
Excerpt “Do you think there could be life out there somewhere on other planets?” he asked quietly.“I do.” I rolled onto my side, and propped myself up with my elbow to see him better.“Intelligent?”“Yes.”“Green?” he asked.“No.” I smiled.“Really? What makes you think there are others out there?”“Why not?” I shrugged with one shoulder. “Why would God stop here? Why not make more? What about you? Do you think there is life out there on other planets?”“I do.”“Green?” I asked.“No. And I am sure they are intelligent,” he said with a small smile.“And what makes you think so?” I asked, returning the smile.He rolled onto his back and looked at the sky. “Because with so much space, there has to be something else like Earth somewhere. It is just so far away you would never find it unless you knew where to look.”“I wish I knew where to look.” I lowered myself onto my side, resting my head on my arm extended straight on the blanket. “The discovery of other worlds out there would be fantastic.”He turned to face me again. “It would be.”
author bio Laura grew up in a small town in central Utah and now lives in another small town in northern Utah. She always loved stargazing and imagining life outside her own little world. Though they grew up only thirty miles apart, she didn’t meet her husband until they went to college. A graduate of Utah State University with a degree in Elementary and Special Education, Laura has been using that training as she raises her children and writes make believe worlds. You can usually find her on her laptop either typing away, or on social media interacting with friends.
Buy linkshttp://www.amazon.com/Eye-On-Orion-Laura-Bastian-ebook/dp/B00IMQ5Q0S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1393355794&sr=8-1&keywords=Laura+D.+Bastian
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/eye-on-orion-laura-d-bastian/1118735673?ean=2940148195894
Connect with Laura
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLauraDBastianWebsite: http://www.lauradbastian.com/
Amazon Author page. http://www.amazon.com/Laura-D.-Bastian/e/B00IN866CW
February 21, 2014
Top Romantic Novels
Romance Month Continues!I'm pleased to welcome my guest host today, Elaine Cantrell, author of The Enchanted.Elaine is sharing her list for Top Romantic Novels. See if it matches yours!
What are the most romantic books of all time? Well, that’s an interesting question with no set answers. Your list is probably different from mine, but here’s what I think.
1.Gone With the Wind. When Rhett grabbed Scarlett and ran up those stairs, it took my breath away. Clark Gable who played Rhett in the movie was the perfect actor for the job. His portrayal of Rhett was exactly right.
2.Wuthering Heights. Even death couldn’t separate Cathy and Heathcliff.
3.Pride and Prejudice. People all over the world like this one. You can get a good feel for English life in the 1800’s too.
4. The Sherwood Ring. This is a young adult book. I read it a long time ago and was totally enchanted by it. So much so, that my heroine in my WIP is named Aimee Sherwood.
5.The Bronze Horseman. It’s heart wrenching, wonderful, and at the end I vowed never to read another book by Paullina Simons. That was before I found out there was a sequel.
6. The Enchanted. Forced into a marriage neither wanted, the hero and heroine struggle against overwhelming odds to find true happiness.
What’s that? You don’t think I should include The Enchanted because I wrote it? Well, what can I say? It has all the elements of a great romance including castles, damsels in distress, and life or death quests. What are your favorite romances? Leave us a comment and tell us.
The Enchanted
Blurb Forced by his father into a marriage he didn’t want, Prince Alan soon finds that his bride isn’t the sweet, submissive creature he expected. Morgane has the heart of a dragon and beauty beyond compare, but she isn’t thrilled about the marriage either. When black treachery threatens the kingdom, Morgane and Alan embark on a perilous journey that has an excellent chance of ending in failure and death for them and all of their people.
Excerpt"You heard me. Does my welfare concern you, my princess?" He held his breath as he waited for her answer.
Morgane bit her lip. With a hitch in her voice, she whispered, "You know that it does."
Blood sang in Alan's veins as fierce joy seized him. "I do not know how you feel, and that is the truth. Will you not tell me?"
Did he dare to touch her? He had no choice in the matter. Death would claim him unless he felt her silken skin under his hand. Morgane gasped when his hand came to rest against her shoulder. "Tell me," he breathed, his heart hammering in his chest.
Morgane rolled over and faced him. He felt surprised to see anger on her face. "Why do you torment me, Prince Alan?"
Alan pushed back from her. "I? I torment you?"
"Yes! You torment me night and day. Your face is never far from my thoughts. In the morning my eyes fall upon you, and my heart sings to have another day in your presence. We were not supposed to have a common life at all! I tried very hard to run away, and you angered your father so much he put you through a year of torment to bend you to his will." A little smile came to rest on her face. "But you did not bend, did you? Nor did you break. You remained the same man you always were. I know this in my heart."
With a suddenness that took his breath away, laughter and light fled from her face. Bleak resignation and hopelessness turned her eyes into two wells of horror. "If I were as beautiful now as I once was, then you would find it difficult to turn away from me." Her lip quivered. "I know that no man wants a scarred woman, but I had hoped…"
"What had you hoped?"
"That you could love me."
About Elaine Cantrell
Elaine Cantrell was born and raised in South Carolina. She has a Master’s Degree in Personnel Services from Clemson University and is a member of Alpha Delta Kappa, an international honorary sorority for women educators. She is also a member of Romance Writers of America and EPIC authors. She is married to her college sweetheart and has two sons and three grandchildren. Besides writing she enjoys, quilting, gardening, and collecting vintage Christmas ornaments. You can contact Elaine at her web site at http://www.elainecantrell.com.
Links for Elaine Cantrell
Web site: http://www.elainecantrell.comBlog: http://www.elainepcantrell.blogspot.comTwitter: @elainecantrellFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/elainepcantrellAmazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Elaine-Cantrell/e/B001K7V90M/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1389973512&sr=8-1Goodreads Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/818508.Elaine_Cantrell
Buy Links for The Enchantedhttp://www.amazon.com/Enchanted-Elaine-Cantrell-ebook/dp/B00CRUD242/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389973892&sr=8-1-spell&keywords=the+encanted+by+elaine+cantrellhttp://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-enchanted-elaine-cantrell/1115303110?ean=9781491232415http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/316872
What are the most romantic books of all time? Well, that’s an interesting question with no set answers. Your list is probably different from mine, but here’s what I think.1.Gone With the Wind. When Rhett grabbed Scarlett and ran up those stairs, it took my breath away. Clark Gable who played Rhett in the movie was the perfect actor for the job. His portrayal of Rhett was exactly right.
2.Wuthering Heights. Even death couldn’t separate Cathy and Heathcliff.
3.Pride and Prejudice. People all over the world like this one. You can get a good feel for English life in the 1800’s too.
4. The Sherwood Ring. This is a young adult book. I read it a long time ago and was totally enchanted by it. So much so, that my heroine in my WIP is named Aimee Sherwood.
5.The Bronze Horseman. It’s heart wrenching, wonderful, and at the end I vowed never to read another book by Paullina Simons. That was before I found out there was a sequel.
6. The Enchanted. Forced into a marriage neither wanted, the hero and heroine struggle against overwhelming odds to find true happiness.
What’s that? You don’t think I should include The Enchanted because I wrote it? Well, what can I say? It has all the elements of a great romance including castles, damsels in distress, and life or death quests. What are your favorite romances? Leave us a comment and tell us.
The Enchanted
Blurb Forced by his father into a marriage he didn’t want, Prince Alan soon finds that his bride isn’t the sweet, submissive creature he expected. Morgane has the heart of a dragon and beauty beyond compare, but she isn’t thrilled about the marriage either. When black treachery threatens the kingdom, Morgane and Alan embark on a perilous journey that has an excellent chance of ending in failure and death for them and all of their people.
Excerpt"You heard me. Does my welfare concern you, my princess?" He held his breath as he waited for her answer.
Morgane bit her lip. With a hitch in her voice, she whispered, "You know that it does."
Blood sang in Alan's veins as fierce joy seized him. "I do not know how you feel, and that is the truth. Will you not tell me?"
Did he dare to touch her? He had no choice in the matter. Death would claim him unless he felt her silken skin under his hand. Morgane gasped when his hand came to rest against her shoulder. "Tell me," he breathed, his heart hammering in his chest.
Morgane rolled over and faced him. He felt surprised to see anger on her face. "Why do you torment me, Prince Alan?"
Alan pushed back from her. "I? I torment you?"
"Yes! You torment me night and day. Your face is never far from my thoughts. In the morning my eyes fall upon you, and my heart sings to have another day in your presence. We were not supposed to have a common life at all! I tried very hard to run away, and you angered your father so much he put you through a year of torment to bend you to his will." A little smile came to rest on her face. "But you did not bend, did you? Nor did you break. You remained the same man you always were. I know this in my heart."
With a suddenness that took his breath away, laughter and light fled from her face. Bleak resignation and hopelessness turned her eyes into two wells of horror. "If I were as beautiful now as I once was, then you would find it difficult to turn away from me." Her lip quivered. "I know that no man wants a scarred woman, but I had hoped…"
"What had you hoped?"
"That you could love me."
About Elaine Cantrell
Elaine Cantrell was born and raised in South Carolina. She has a Master’s Degree in Personnel Services from Clemson University and is a member of Alpha Delta Kappa, an international honorary sorority for women educators. She is also a member of Romance Writers of America and EPIC authors. She is married to her college sweetheart and has two sons and three grandchildren. Besides writing she enjoys, quilting, gardening, and collecting vintage Christmas ornaments. You can contact Elaine at her web site at http://www.elainecantrell.com.
Links for Elaine Cantrell
Web site: http://www.elainecantrell.comBlog: http://www.elainepcantrell.blogspot.comTwitter: @elainecantrellFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/elainepcantrellAmazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Elaine-Cantrell/e/B001K7V90M/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1389973512&sr=8-1Goodreads Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/818508.Elaine_Cantrell
Buy Links for The Enchantedhttp://www.amazon.com/Enchanted-Elaine-Cantrell-ebook/dp/B00CRUD242/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389973892&sr=8-1-spell&keywords=the+encanted+by+elaine+cantrellhttp://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-enchanted-elaine-cantrell/1115303110?ean=9781491232415http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/316872
February 11, 2014
February's Snow Moon on Valentine's Day
To the Native Americans, February’s Full Moon represented a period of heavy snowfall and a scarcity of game. The moon was known by many names, including the Snow Moon, Hunger Moon, and Bone Moon.
For a video on the Snow Moon, please visit the Old Farmer's Almanac: http://www.almanac.com/content/full-snow-moon-februarys-moon-guide
This year, the Leo Snow Moon (6:53 pm Eastern Standard Time) coincides with Valentine's Day. So how does a moon traditionally associated with desperate times influence romance?
Isabel M. Hickey (Astrology A Cosmic Science) describes Leo as “Fire of the heart: the steady controlled fire of affection.” Leo moons are a time to sparkle, shine, and celebrate. Sounds great, right? But the presence of mischief-maker, Mercury in retrograde, warrants some caution. Double check your potential new love match to make sure he/she is who they say they are.
The Moon in LeoDuring January’s Wolf Moon, the I WILL motto of Leo helped you illuminate your path and set New Year’s resolutions. On February 14, the Leo Snow Moon becomes void of course (the time just before the moon enters a new planet, when it makes a final angular relationship/aspect to another planet*) at 10:13 pm EST. Avoid performing magic when the moon is in void of course, lest your spell goes terribly awry. The moon will stay void of course until February 15 when it enters Virgo at 2:26 am EST.
If your intention this month is growth and positive change, then harness Leo’s power on February 13. If your intention is to diminish something — break a bad habit, release an old belief/relationship/job that no longer serves you — then wait until February 15 and work with Virgo’s I ANALYZE energies that can sharpen the mind and help you problem solve.
Stone Magic RitualBecause of this year’s Valentine’s Day connection, I propose a moon ritual concerning love. For love spells, releasing love spells, and loving yourself spells, and a video on how to perform a candle magic love spell, visit my spells page: http://ariellamoon.blogspot.com/p/spells.html
Step-by-step instructions for a candle magic love spell can be found in my January 24 blog post: http://ariellamoon.blogspot.com/2014_01_01_archive.html
NEVER direct a love spell at a specific person. Instead, ask the Universe for someone with the qualities you desire.
1. Place a white, pink, or red cloth on your altar. Adorn the altar with fresh jasmine, roses, cornflowers, lavender, orchids, or pansies.2. Determine your intention. Use the criteria above to determine which day will best boost your intent.3. Choose a stone best aligned with your intention. Aventurine to soothe a wounded heart, jade for love and luck, peridot for emotional balance, red jasper for earthly love, rose quartz for healing the heart, or ruby for love and passion.4. Hold the stone in your projective hand (your non-dominate hand), palm facing moonward. Tune into the energies of the stone and the moon.5. Focus on your intention (i.e. releasing heartache, loving yourself, attracting love). Mentally draw down a beam of moon energy into the stone. Visualize the moon’s energy charging the stone, and then passing through it into your heart chakra. Pull the energy up through the crown chakra on top of your head and send it back to the moon. Create a loop of energy cycling through the moon, stone, heart chakra, and back to the moon. 6. As the energy flows through you, envision what you’d like to attract or release.7. When the energy ebbs, thank and release any deities, spirits, guardians, or guides that attended your ritual.8. Cleanse the stone by rubbing it with salt and then holding it under flowing water.
*Llewellyn’s Witches’ Datebook 2014Photo credit: Many red pansy flowers design/CopyrightDepositphotos.com/Dr.PAS
©2014 by Ariella Moon
For a video on the Snow Moon, please visit the Old Farmer's Almanac: http://www.almanac.com/content/full-snow-moon-februarys-moon-guide
This year, the Leo Snow Moon (6:53 pm Eastern Standard Time) coincides with Valentine's Day. So how does a moon traditionally associated with desperate times influence romance?
Isabel M. Hickey (Astrology A Cosmic Science) describes Leo as “Fire of the heart: the steady controlled fire of affection.” Leo moons are a time to sparkle, shine, and celebrate. Sounds great, right? But the presence of mischief-maker, Mercury in retrograde, warrants some caution. Double check your potential new love match to make sure he/she is who they say they are.
The Moon in LeoDuring January’s Wolf Moon, the I WILL motto of Leo helped you illuminate your path and set New Year’s resolutions. On February 14, the Leo Snow Moon becomes void of course (the time just before the moon enters a new planet, when it makes a final angular relationship/aspect to another planet*) at 10:13 pm EST. Avoid performing magic when the moon is in void of course, lest your spell goes terribly awry. The moon will stay void of course until February 15 when it enters Virgo at 2:26 am EST.
If your intention this month is growth and positive change, then harness Leo’s power on February 13. If your intention is to diminish something — break a bad habit, release an old belief/relationship/job that no longer serves you — then wait until February 15 and work with Virgo’s I ANALYZE energies that can sharpen the mind and help you problem solve.
Stone Magic RitualBecause of this year’s Valentine’s Day connection, I propose a moon ritual concerning love. For love spells, releasing love spells, and loving yourself spells, and a video on how to perform a candle magic love spell, visit my spells page: http://ariellamoon.blogspot.com/p/spells.html
Step-by-step instructions for a candle magic love spell can be found in my January 24 blog post: http://ariellamoon.blogspot.com/2014_01_01_archive.html
NEVER direct a love spell at a specific person. Instead, ask the Universe for someone with the qualities you desire.
1. Place a white, pink, or red cloth on your altar. Adorn the altar with fresh jasmine, roses, cornflowers, lavender, orchids, or pansies.2. Determine your intention. Use the criteria above to determine which day will best boost your intent.3. Choose a stone best aligned with your intention. Aventurine to soothe a wounded heart, jade for love and luck, peridot for emotional balance, red jasper for earthly love, rose quartz for healing the heart, or ruby for love and passion.4. Hold the stone in your projective hand (your non-dominate hand), palm facing moonward. Tune into the energies of the stone and the moon.5. Focus on your intention (i.e. releasing heartache, loving yourself, attracting love). Mentally draw down a beam of moon energy into the stone. Visualize the moon’s energy charging the stone, and then passing through it into your heart chakra. Pull the energy up through the crown chakra on top of your head and send it back to the moon. Create a loop of energy cycling through the moon, stone, heart chakra, and back to the moon. 6. As the energy flows through you, envision what you’d like to attract or release.7. When the energy ebbs, thank and release any deities, spirits, guardians, or guides that attended your ritual.8. Cleanse the stone by rubbing it with salt and then holding it under flowing water.
*Llewellyn’s Witches’ Datebook 2014Photo credit: Many red pansy flowers design/CopyrightDepositphotos.com/Dr.PAS
©2014 by Ariella Moon
February 10, 2014
15 Reasons to Love Valentine's Day
Astraea Press Valentine’s Day Short Story AnthologyA challenge was made: write a short story of around 5000 words that incorporates love and diamonds. Using their varied talents and creativity, fifteen Astraea Press authors were up for the task.
These are their stories…Buy Links:Amazon: http://amzn.com/B00I9MR450
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love-and-diamonds-astraea-press-authors/1118588769?ean=2940148209317
Astraea Press: http://astraeapress.com/#!/~/product/category=662245&id=33538033
February 8, 2014
Romance is in the Air Giveaway Hop!
The month of Romance and Love Magic
continues with a Fabulous Giveaway!
Romance is in the Air Giveaway HopFeaturing Young Adult & Clean Adult RomanceFebruary 8th to 14thCohosted by Rachael Anderson
Welcome to my Blog!Enter the rafflecopter below for your chance to win one of the e-booksfeatured on this page. There will be three winners Happy reading!
Ever since Evie’s photojournalist dad died, paralyzing fear prevents her from picking up a camera. If Evie can’t pull it together soon, she’ll lose her position as Yearbook Photo Editor. Even worse, she will lose her secret crush, Jordan, if she can’t stop BFF Parvani from casting a love spell on him. Despite a falling out, Evie never forgot Jordan. Now they are lab partners and the chemistry between them definitely sparks. Soon the moon will be in the optimum phase for magic. Parvani possesses a brimstone-hissing spell book. To save Jordan, Evie must join forces with Salem, the school Goth. The clock is ticking. Can Evie get her mojo back in time to check this spell?
Goth outcast, Salem Miller, believes her love spell failed until Aidan Cooper arrives at Jefferson High. When he chooses her over the popular girls, Salem knows magic brought him. But can she summon enough wizardry to save her sister? Salem fears Amy’s next suicide attempt will succeed. Magic brought Aidan. Maybe it can cure Amy. Salem’s last hope lies hidden within a damaged grimoire, nearly destroyed by a wrongful love spell. Was her rightful love spell enough to restore it?
Newest Jefferson High transplant, Aidan Cooper, doesn't expect to be attracted to a goth. Then he realizes Salem is throwing a glamour—pretending to be something she’s not. Guess it takes one to know one, since his whole life has been a lie. But if his kidnappers discover he's broken their No Attachments rule, he'll never see Salem again. Worse, he’s terrified they’ll harm her when they discover she possesses the ancient grimoire. To protect Salem, Aidan must destroy the grimoire, and escape his captors.
While Salem races to unlock the Get Well Spell, Aidan scrambles to overcome his past. With their star-crossed paths at odds, will time run out for both of them?
New school. New friends. New reputation. High school sophomore Ainslie Avalon-Bennett works hard to hide her Crazy Girl past. But as long as her best friend’s disappearance remains unsolved, she can’t shake the depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder that once landed her in a mental ward.
Ainslie’s tenuous control over her life shatters when her warring parents ditch her at Christmas. While they take a cruise to “work things out,” Ainslie must spend the holiday in Palm Springs with her aunt and uncle, owners of a struggling Mystery School and occult store. Plunged into the world of fire fortunes, dragons, entity eaters, and an ailing spell book, Ainslie is well beyond her comfort zone. Then she meets a boy who spikes her pulse and calms her OCD. But will she lose him once he discovers her past? Or will his deadly secret, hidden in plain view, be their undoing?
a Rafflecopter giveaway
continues with a Fabulous Giveaway!
Romance is in the Air Giveaway HopFeaturing Young Adult & Clean Adult RomanceFebruary 8th to 14thCohosted by Rachael Anderson
Welcome to my Blog!Enter the rafflecopter below for your chance to win one of the e-booksfeatured on this page. There will be three winners Happy reading!
Ever since Evie’s photojournalist dad died, paralyzing fear prevents her from picking up a camera. If Evie can’t pull it together soon, she’ll lose her position as Yearbook Photo Editor. Even worse, she will lose her secret crush, Jordan, if she can’t stop BFF Parvani from casting a love spell on him. Despite a falling out, Evie never forgot Jordan. Now they are lab partners and the chemistry between them definitely sparks. Soon the moon will be in the optimum phase for magic. Parvani possesses a brimstone-hissing spell book. To save Jordan, Evie must join forces with Salem, the school Goth. The clock is ticking. Can Evie get her mojo back in time to check this spell?
Goth outcast, Salem Miller, believes her love spell failed until Aidan Cooper arrives at Jefferson High. When he chooses her over the popular girls, Salem knows magic brought him. But can she summon enough wizardry to save her sister? Salem fears Amy’s next suicide attempt will succeed. Magic brought Aidan. Maybe it can cure Amy. Salem’s last hope lies hidden within a damaged grimoire, nearly destroyed by a wrongful love spell. Was her rightful love spell enough to restore it?
Newest Jefferson High transplant, Aidan Cooper, doesn't expect to be attracted to a goth. Then he realizes Salem is throwing a glamour—pretending to be something she’s not. Guess it takes one to know one, since his whole life has been a lie. But if his kidnappers discover he's broken their No Attachments rule, he'll never see Salem again. Worse, he’s terrified they’ll harm her when they discover she possesses the ancient grimoire. To protect Salem, Aidan must destroy the grimoire, and escape his captors.
While Salem races to unlock the Get Well Spell, Aidan scrambles to overcome his past. With their star-crossed paths at odds, will time run out for both of them?
New school. New friends. New reputation. High school sophomore Ainslie Avalon-Bennett works hard to hide her Crazy Girl past. But as long as her best friend’s disappearance remains unsolved, she can’t shake the depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder that once landed her in a mental ward.
Ainslie’s tenuous control over her life shatters when her warring parents ditch her at Christmas. While they take a cruise to “work things out,” Ainslie must spend the holiday in Palm Springs with her aunt and uncle, owners of a struggling Mystery School and occult store. Plunged into the world of fire fortunes, dragons, entity eaters, and an ailing spell book, Ainslie is well beyond her comfort zone. Then she meets a boy who spikes her pulse and calms her OCD. But will she lose him once he discovers her past? Or will his deadly secret, hidden in plain view, be their undoing?
a Rafflecopter giveaway
February 7, 2014
Sherry Gloag's New Romance: His Chosen Bride
My month of Romance and Love Magic continues with guest Blog Host and fellow Astraea Press author, Sherry Gloag.
Welcome Sherry!
What do you want for Valentine this year? A box of chocolates from you lover, your partner? Or perhaps something a little more sparkly from your boyfriend?
It’s hard to imagine that in reality Cupid was not a cherub of love, but betrayal, revenge and deceit. And yet, he looks so harmless and cute.
A couple of years ago, Henri Gasquet, eldest brother of Liam, in my first Gasquet Princes book, and heir to his father’s throne decided it was time he took a bride. But being to busy with official business he was happy to leave the choice to his parents. That is, until those same parents shunted him off to stay with Liam and his new wife in Scotland where he met Monika.
As for Monika, she was done with men. Once they discovered her ‘gift’ they allowed just enough time to ridicule her before they took to their heels. No – Monika wasn’t interested in men. Didn’t trust them until Henri arrived at the Horse stables she co-owned with Melanie, Liam’s wife.While the two of them muddled through their preconceived opinions of the situation it took cupid and a huge Valentine ball for the two of them to face up to the truth.
The future the both imagined wasn’t what they wanted at all. It wasn’t chocolate, or even the sparkly bauble, but she got that anyway J They wanted each other.
What are you hoping for this Valentine?
His Chosen Bride Blurb: Prince Henri Gasquet is happy to let his father, the king, choose his bride for him until he meets Monica Latimer.Monica Latimer is not prepared to risk letting any man close enough to learn about her Gift. A gift that normally has men running for the hills when they find out about it.
Excerpt:
She lost track of time until the flames caught her attention once more. They flickered from orange to gold, to silver, to white.A flurry of snowflakes masked the flames and for a second Monica watched the most beautiful, pristine snow-scene she’d ever seen. Her lips curved in longing. How she’d love to get a toboggan and slide down that slope. She knew where it was, and had done just that many times in her childhood, first with her parents and then, in clandestine manner, with her brother. Sneaking an old tin tray from the back of her mother’s walk-in pantry, she’d then grabbed Billy’s hand and they’d rushed out the back gate, heading for the lakeside track that led up into the hills.Darkness, dense and thick with grief dropped over the scene. Startled and disconcerted by the strength of emotion emanating from the vision Monica shifted to her knees, ready to stand, when a voice, a deep male voice, sharp with fear called out her name.
“Monica!” She knew she’d never heard the voice before, and yet—it was as familiar to her as the image she saw in her mirror each morning.“Help me, Monica.”Desperate for more clues, she searched the darkness within the flames until it sputtered and faded. With a curse she jumped up and ran for the phone. With her outstretched hand hovering over it she halted and let her hand drop to her side once more. What could she say? What would the police or rescue team think of her if she called them and told them she’d seen a vision of a man in distress? They’d laugh in her face and classify her as a lunatic. Well, maybe not. It wouldn’t be the first time she’d contacted them with positive information but something—an instinctive gut reaction told her what she’d seen this time hadn’t happened yet.
Buy Links:
http://www.astraeapress.com/#ecwid:category=662245&mode=product&product=9472803 Kobo http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/His-Chosen-Bride/book-M9o6aoRXPkyzBnmQNx4nLg/page1.html?s=6QB2_jmGp0C8JZqlrsuqVQ&r=2
Amazon http://www.amazon.com/His-Chosen-Bride-ebook/dp/B0079A7V9W/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357053794&sr=1-4&keywords=Sherry+GloagAmazon UK http://www.amazon.co.uk/His-Chosen-Bride-ebook/dp/B0079A7V9W/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357053836&sr=1-4All Romance https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-hischosenbride-895285-149.htmlNook http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/his-chosen-bride-sherry-gloag/1108826897?ean=2940013929494
Multi-published author, Sherry Gloag is a transplanted Scot living in the beautiful coastal county of Norfolk, England. She considers the surrounding countryside an extension of her garden, to which she escapes when she needs "thinking time" and solitude to work out the plots for her next novel. While out walking she enjoys talking to her characters, as long as there’s no one else around.Apart from writing, Sherry enjoys gardening, walking, reading, and cheerfully admits her books tend to take over most of the shelf and floor space in her workroom-cum-office. She also finds crystal craft work therapeutic.
Sherry Gloag loves to hear from her readers. sherrygloag@gmail.com
February 5, 2014
Who was Your First Celebrity Crush?
My first celebrity crush hit me with such force that my mother had difficulty getting me to
A. Leave the theater, and
B. Stop talking about Robert Redford and the film, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
Decades later, I was in the audience when Redford spoke at the MPSF Speaker Series in Oakland's beautiful Paramount Theater. Seeing him evoked the same feeling as viewing in person a much loved painting - a sigh of recognition and fond remembrance.
Did your first celebrity crush fall into one of these categories?
Alpha Males/Females
Angelina Jolie
Daniel Craig
Michelle Rodriquez
Russell Crowe
Jennifer Lawrence
Lovable Rogues
Robert Downey Jr.
Johnny Depp
Incurable Romantics
Orlando Bloom
Kiera Knightly
Diego Luna
Intellectuals
Benedict Cumberbatch
Chiwetel Ejiofar
Travis Fimmel
Who was your first celebrity crush?
What category would you add?
February 3, 2014
What’s Your Emotional Love Language?
When I first read about Gary Chapman’s The Five Love Languages, I flashed on a former boyfriend and thought, No wonder it didn’t work out.The romance was doomed for many reasons, but not speaking the same love language certainly made the short list.
Chapman devised the 5 Love Languages after 30 years as a marriage counselor. He believes everyone has a primary love language — a way they accept and show love. If your way of communicating love doesn’t match your partner’s way (language) of giving and accepting love, you are bound to disappoint each other.
5 Ways to Demonstrate Love 1. Words of Affirmation2. Spending Quality time
3. Receiving Gifts4. Physical Touch5. Acts of Service
Words of AffirmationAll her life B.J had been told she was unattractive. The cruel words that had been inflicted upon her as a child remained branded on her soul decades later. After getting her hair done or buying a new outfit, she’d ask her husband, “How do I look?” His response was always, “Fine” or “Okay” or the dreaded, “If you like it…” His words left her feeling unloved. A year after her husband’s death, B.J. said through her teeth, “Would it have killed him to say, just once, ‘I love you. You look beautiful?’” She now lives with a man who tells her every day how beautiful she looks, and she’s never been happier.B.J. needed kind, encouraging words. It takes just a few seconds to give an honest compliment or express encouragement.Quality Time“Can we please go away together, just the two of us?”“Can we have dinner together with the cell phones off?”“Can you look at me instead of the television?”All of the above are typical statements from people who express and perceive love by spending quality time with their partner. If you are in a relationship with such a person, set aside time to give them your undivided attention.Set aside some time to give your partner your undivided attention. Plan a date night or occasional romantic getaway.
Receiving GiftsThis one is a toughie if, like me, you aren’t very good at choosing gifts. Luckily, people whose primary love language is receiving gifts, don’t necessarily require expensive or perfect gifts. Thoughtful cards and homemade gifts also signal, “I love you.”Make a weekly or monthly event of giving your partner a thoughtful gift — flowers or a card. Keep an idea book. Buy within your comfort zone.Physical Touch For some, love is expressed through open acts of affection, handholding, hugs, sex, or your partner’s arm around your waist.
Acts of ServiceIf someone offered to be your love slave and your first thought was, Great! Repaint my kitchen and fix the leaky faucet in the bathroom, then chances are your primary love language is Acts of Service. You would much prefer your partner demonstrate his/her love by doing something thoughtful. Actions are more meaningful to you than words.Replace, I don’t know what he/she wants, with actively listening to what your partner complains about most often. Love leaves the equation if your acts of service are in response to demands, or if you resent doing them. As seen in the example below, if you aren’t performing the act freely out of love, then you aren’t speaking this particular love language. Caring Enough to Make the EffortEven when a couple shares the same primary love language, things may not go smoothly if they don’t make the effort. Remember the ex-boyfriend I mentioned? In his family, people showed their love through the creation of elaborate, time-consuming meals. I came from a home where both parents worked the night shift, and dinner was whatever my siblings and I could quickly and easily throw together.
When a relationship doesn’t work out — and there are usually multiple reasons — look for the lesson learned. It may have been that you didn’t speak the same love language or care enough to adapt.
February 1, 2014
Kelly Martin Dreams Big in The Afterlife of Lizzie Monroe
Vampire movies and television shows give me nightmares. But for Amazon Bestselling Author, Kelly Martin, a post-Vampire Diaries dream led to Amazon gold. Welcome, Kelly! Tell us about The Afterlife of Lizzie Monroe. I LOVED your meme for the book! Tell us about the blog tour.
I'm nearing the end of my LIZZIE MONROE blog tour. It's so sad, but I've had a great time!! I'm so excited to be here talking about my new book, THE AFTERLIFE OF LIZZIE MONROE, and to answer three reader questions. I recently asked on facebook for any questions my readers had for me. I've been answering some of them on my tour. I have to have it to my readers. They asked really great questions! *hold my hand-- oh the nerves**
Three Questions with Kelly Martin1. Computer or Pen and paper?Computer. I used to write with pen and paper. Now, I use the computer. I outline in a notebook though. Do character sketches and stuff… invented time travel ;) But when I write, it’s on a computer. Usually a laptop.2. Think of the one book that you’ve always wanted to write but never have, what would it be?There is a time travel book I really want to write, but I’m not sure I can pull it off. I got far enough to invent time travel and wrote a couple chapters, but I put it down. Also, there is a book I’ve written about 10,000 words in about a virus in a small town. I really like the idea for it, but I think it needs a lot of work. Maybe I’ll get on that one again soon. I really liked the main character, Ivy.
3. What one author would you ever consider doing a co-write with?Leah Sanders (Waltzing with the Wallflowers) and I have toyed with co-writing a new book. We are still in the ‘what do you think’ stage. I think it would be fun.
Do you have any questions for me? If so, you can chat on my facebook author page or twitter. I'd love to answer it.
Do you watch FOX's show Sleepy Hollow? How about The Vampire Diaries (actually, the idea for LIZZIE came from a dream I had after watching TVD... you'll probably figure out which part when you read it ;) ) Basically, that's LIZZIE. It's FOX's Sleepy Hollow meets The Vampire Diaries with a little faith thrown in for good measure (of course... there is a lot of faith in Sleepy Hollow too lol). SO if you like Sleepy Hollow-- you'll like LIZZIE :)
Thanks for having me here :) ~Kelly
Blurb:If Shane Davis had it to do over again, he wouldn't have gone out that night. He wouldn't have burned down the church. And he sure wouldn't have taken the annoying dead girl home with him.
Now that Shane has her, he has no idea what to do with her. He can't release her into the "wild" because people will recognize her (being a hundred and fifty year old town 'legend' will do that). He can't send her away because she can't take care of herself yet. And she can't stay because if people find her, they'll know he burned the church. Being eighteen now, Shane definitely doesn't want that fact coming out.
Unbeknownst to Shane, someone has figured out the girl's secret and will do anything to get it for himself... even kill the girl who isn't so immortal after all.
Buy Links:Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Afterlife-Lizzie-Monroe-Life-Book-ebook/dp/B00HX89Q5W/ref=la_B009O5CZL4_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1390535864&sr=1-4
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-afterlife-of-lizzie-monroe-kelly-martin/1118082347?ean=2940148261759
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/399820
About Kelly:Author Information:Kelly Martin a southern girl who writes... a lot. She is the author of 5 Young Adult novels. Her favorite reviews are from the people who 'know' they aren't going to like her books... but end up loving them :) She loves God, is addicted to chocolate, and would rather write than sleep. Kelly loves a good mystery and believes in Sherlock Holmes.
Social Media Links:Website: http://kellymartinbooks.blogspot.com/twitter: https://twitter.com/martieKayfacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kelly-Martin-Author/136506059763138tumblr: martiekay.tumblr.com
Newsletter: http://kellymartinbooks.blogspot.com/p/subscribe-to-our-newsletter.html
I'm nearing the end of my LIZZIE MONROE blog tour. It's so sad, but I've had a great time!! I'm so excited to be here talking about my new book, THE AFTERLIFE OF LIZZIE MONROE, and to answer three reader questions. I recently asked on facebook for any questions my readers had for me. I've been answering some of them on my tour. I have to have it to my readers. They asked really great questions! *hold my hand-- oh the nerves**
Three Questions with Kelly Martin1. Computer or Pen and paper?Computer. I used to write with pen and paper. Now, I use the computer. I outline in a notebook though. Do character sketches and stuff… invented time travel ;) But when I write, it’s on a computer. Usually a laptop.2. Think of the one book that you’ve always wanted to write but never have, what would it be?There is a time travel book I really want to write, but I’m not sure I can pull it off. I got far enough to invent time travel and wrote a couple chapters, but I put it down. Also, there is a book I’ve written about 10,000 words in about a virus in a small town. I really like the idea for it, but I think it needs a lot of work. Maybe I’ll get on that one again soon. I really liked the main character, Ivy.
3. What one author would you ever consider doing a co-write with?Leah Sanders (Waltzing with the Wallflowers) and I have toyed with co-writing a new book. We are still in the ‘what do you think’ stage. I think it would be fun.
Do you have any questions for me? If so, you can chat on my facebook author page or twitter. I'd love to answer it.
Do you watch FOX's show Sleepy Hollow? How about The Vampire Diaries (actually, the idea for LIZZIE came from a dream I had after watching TVD... you'll probably figure out which part when you read it ;) ) Basically, that's LIZZIE. It's FOX's Sleepy Hollow meets The Vampire Diaries with a little faith thrown in for good measure (of course... there is a lot of faith in Sleepy Hollow too lol). SO if you like Sleepy Hollow-- you'll like LIZZIE :)
Thanks for having me here :) ~Kelly
Blurb:If Shane Davis had it to do over again, he wouldn't have gone out that night. He wouldn't have burned down the church. And he sure wouldn't have taken the annoying dead girl home with him.
Now that Shane has her, he has no idea what to do with her. He can't release her into the "wild" because people will recognize her (being a hundred and fifty year old town 'legend' will do that). He can't send her away because she can't take care of herself yet. And she can't stay because if people find her, they'll know he burned the church. Being eighteen now, Shane definitely doesn't want that fact coming out.
Unbeknownst to Shane, someone has figured out the girl's secret and will do anything to get it for himself... even kill the girl who isn't so immortal after all.
Buy Links:Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Afterlife-Lizzie-Monroe-Life-Book-ebook/dp/B00HX89Q5W/ref=la_B009O5CZL4_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1390535864&sr=1-4
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-afterlife-of-lizzie-monroe-kelly-martin/1118082347?ean=2940148261759
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/399820
About Kelly:Author Information:Kelly Martin a southern girl who writes... a lot. She is the author of 5 Young Adult novels. Her favorite reviews are from the people who 'know' they aren't going to like her books... but end up loving them :) She loves God, is addicted to chocolate, and would rather write than sleep. Kelly loves a good mystery and believes in Sherlock Holmes.
Social Media Links:Website: http://kellymartinbooks.blogspot.com/twitter: https://twitter.com/martieKayfacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kelly-Martin-Author/136506059763138tumblr: martiekay.tumblr.com
Newsletter: http://kellymartinbooks.blogspot.com/p/subscribe-to-our-newsletter.html
January 27, 2014
Kelly Martin's Blog Tour Giveaway
Amazon Bestselling AuthorKelly MartinWill help me kick off a month of Romance with her guest post on February 1st.
But you can enter Kelly's Giveaway now.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
