Tamela Quijas's Blog, page 12
September 19, 2011
Love the paranormal mixed with a dash of HOT romance?
I love a saucy vampire who battles with his wicked side while in his lady's embrace, a shape-shifter that has to control his animal nature while in the throes of passion, and ghosts that pull at the heart. What is it about those forbidden demons and the supernatural? Are we attracted to them because of the taboo, or is it our curiosity of the unknown? Whatever it is, their lure entices and draws us far deeper into their embrace with each passing word….
Speaking of that lure, there are thousands of talented authors out there that write amazing paranormal novels that shouldn't be missed!
Paranormal Romance Author, Melanie Nowak of the stellar paranormal Almost Human series, keeps a wonderful list on Amazon of Paranormal Romance Authors and their books. It's a beautifully researched, extensive list that all fans of the paranormal should have readily on hand.
Over the past few years, the list has grown by phenomenal leaps and bounds, making it impossible for me to show it in it's entirety on my WordPress Site. Nevertheless, I will keep all my readers up-to-date on additions Melanie makes to this wonderful listing!
Dash on over and become a free member at the Paranormal Romance Forum on Yahoo Groups and get your hands on this fantastic list, and find fabulous authors and great friends that share their love for the paranormal!
Yahoo Group Home page:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PNRList
Go there to read about the group and click the Join button to become a member.
Amazon listing, beautifully updated by Melanie Nowak
http://www.amazon.com/tag/paranormal%20romance/forum/
Are you familiar with Almost Human's fantastic author, Melanie Nowak?
If not, check out her fantastic website at: http://www.melanienowak.com/
September 18, 2011
What's on my reading list this week? Phantom Lives-Collier by Elizabeth Loraine
T
he image of a Southern Plantation house–glistening in the sunlight, Spanish Moss hanging from the ancient trees outside, has sent me into the world of Phantom Lives-Collier this week!
The author of Phantom Lives-Collier, Elizabeth Loraine has written some thrilling novels, many that I've read. (Remember my review of Katrina, The Beginning?)
Phantom Lives-Collier, is another page turning adventure from Elizabeth Loraine. Phantom Lives intertwines the modern world with the post Civil War world of Collier, a plantation the heroine of the novel had dreamt about her entire life. This is one amazing tale where the fantasy world of spirits and immortals is built in a way which fans of Ms Loraine's will again thoroughly enjoy.
For those of you not familiar with this wonderfully talented author, she introduces herself by saying:
'I've always been creative, art, music, decorating; all life long passions. I married my high school sweetheart a talented General Building Contractor and raised a son and a daughter who are very creative in their own rights. I've worked in the business world, became a decorative painter and longed for an outlet for my other artistic talents.
I have been a lifelong fiction fan, and for years I knew I was supposed to write a book; I just didn't know about what. I did, however, envision characters that were strong , independent young women as heroines.
Since I was very young I have been fascinated by vampires from Dracula to the present day. Although I love all the books where
the settings are high schools and the characters are young, I always wanted to
know more. What had they done in the centuries before? Where had they been? What had they seen
and lived? I wanted to fill in their time line, their history. From that curiosity, those questions, is where
these books come from. These long lived vampires have hundreds of years of history and I plan to
chronicle that. So, start here with Katrina, enjoy the vampire past and look forward to the vampire future.'
Find out more about Elizabeth Loraine at your deliciously wicked website: http://www.royalbloodchronicles.com
Blurb:
Abigail Black, an heiress from Memphis is on the run from her abusive boyfriend, Dallas. In the process she finds out that there she is being pulled towards something, and someone, that she thought only existed in her dreams.
Pick up your copy at: http://www.amazon.com/Phantom-Lives-Collier-book-ebook/dp/B005I57M6C/ref=sr_1_7?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1314274059&sr=1-7
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September 16, 2011
My review of Song of Eidolons by Jessica McHugh
I had a new novel on my reading list this week, the exciting tale by Jessica McHugh entitled Song of Eidolons. Jessica is an author of speculative fiction that spans the genre from horror and alternate history to epic fantasy. A prolific writer, she has devoted herself to novels, short stories, novellas, and even playwriting. She has had nine books published in three years, including "Song of Eidolons", "The Sky: The World" and the first three installments in her "Tales of Dominhydor"series.
You can discover more about this beautiful and talented author at
http://www.JessicaMcHughBooks.com
Become a Fan of Jessica McHugh on Facebook!
Delaney Lortal is a unique breed of girl. She is well spoken, extremely well read, and highly ambitious for love, but it is not those qualities that make her so unique. It's not even because in twenty-two years of life, she has never set foot outside of her grandfather's house. What makes her so unique is the truth behind a mysterious secret that has made her the target of a clandestine Order called the Orisanima. As wondrous as it is heartbreaking, Song of Eidolons follows Delaney's journey of enlightenment as she struggles to peel back the layers of deceit to discover the amazing truth about her origins.
My Review:
I love fantasy novels and have an expansive collection that date back to long before most readers were born. I've kept them over the years because they 'spoke' to me, promising to become epic sagas that deserved more recognition that what they garnered.
Song of Eidolons is one such novel. Beautifully written, Jessica McHugh's tale is filled with misfortune, secrecy, and romance. The lead character, Delaney, has led an odd life. At 22, she's never been outside her grandfather's house. Strange as it may seem, she seems sequestered from the world, a virtual prisoner to a man who says he's raising her the best way he knows. She wants to experience life, but she's held back at every opportunity.
Innocence, though, is not prepared for the harsh realities of life. Delaney's world spins upside down when she does journey outside, and her dreams become fantastic voyages into the sci-fi.
Ms. McHugh's story is fresh and different from other tales, filled with unexpected twists and turns that kept me entertained until the very end. Excellent imagery, wonderful characters, and such believably portrayed innocence makes Song of Eidolons a 4 star delight!
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September 12, 2011
What's on my reading list this week? Song of Eidolons by Jessica McHugh
I've a new novel on my reading list this week, the exciting tale by Jessica McHugh entitled Song of Eidolons. Jessica is an author of speculative fiction that spans the genre from horror and alternate history to epic fantasy. A prolific writer, she has devoted herself to novels, short stories, novellas, and even playwriting. She has had nine books published in three years, including "Song of Eidolons", "The Sky: The World" and the first three installments in her "Tales of Dominhydor" series.
You can discover more about this beautiful and talented author at
http://www.JessicaMcHughBooks.com
Become a Fan of Jessica McHugh on Facebook!
Delaney Lortal is a unique breed of girl. She is well spoken, extremely well read, and highly ambitious for love, but it is not those qualities that make her so unique. It's not even because in twenty-two years of life, she has never set foot outside of her grandfather's house. What makes her so unique is the truth behind a mysterious secret that has made her the target of a clandestine Order called the Orisanima. As wondrous as it is heartbreaking, Song of Eidolons follows Delaney's journey of enlightenment as she struggles to peel back the layers of deceit to discover the amazing truth about her origins.
Stay tuned for my review on Thursday!
Pick up your copy at:
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I'm celebrating September in a special way!
Yes, it's finally September!
The temperatures are finally livable out here–staying in the low 90s during the day. The leaves are starting to change on some trees, and there's a slight nip in the air in the morning. The kids are back in school (as well as some adults!), and thoughts of fall activities are whirling through my mind. September to December are my favorite months of the year–filled with happy holidays, baking, family gatherings, and special events. Birthdays are one such event…I love birthdays, but not my own.
This year, I've decided to take an entirely new look on life and there were two things I planned to attack.
First, I made a so-called 'bucket list' of everything I've wanted to do in my life and have put off. I know most of you might think it's a silly list. Nothing on the list is grand, but they're little things I've always sighed over and said "I wanted to do that when I was younger, but…"
I'm determined to do them now! I've made it a point to drag the family to Old Tucson Studios, Arizona two weekends ago–I've waited 32 years to see the site where John Wayne filmed so many of his movies. I had a blast with the old-time cowboys and shady ladies in Tombstone, and spent hours in the infamous The Bird Cage Theater, staring wide-eyed at their wonderful collection of western history. I'm still sorting through the pictures of the place, hoping to find a spirit lingering in the corner.
Last weekend, my husband took me to EPCON 2011. Visiting any ComicCon has been on my wish list since high school–yes, I am not ashamed to admit I love Trekees! I met some wonderful fans of the paranormal, El Paso's own Research in Paranormal Science team(our ghost hunters!), Billy Dee Williams, Peter Mayhew, and Amy Bruni! I was asked why I didn't have a table there as a Paranormal Author, and wound up with another item on my bucket list.
EPCON 2012…BEWARE!
Next spring, I want to see the Valley of Fire in Carrizozo, New Mexico and the miraculous staircase at the Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe.
I know, it's a silly list, but it's fun to cross off all those sites. I smile when I add more, little things I want to do with my family. Oh…the list is little things, except for wanting to see the Grand Canyon, Walt Disney World, and the Hoover Dam. 
My second life changing thought? I'm not allowing birthdays to be a 'bummer' anymore! I've learned to accept my age, and be proud of it! I'm not cringing or wishing I had my youth back. I've been on my own since 1980, I've seen most of the world, and have raised a bunch of beautiful children–many of whom are soon looking at teenagers of their own.
Speaking of my birthday, I'm celebrating the entire month of September in a big way! Only this month, my romance novels–Blood of the Beast, Blood Moon, My Lord Raven, and Moonlight Deception–are on SALE! Stop by AMAZON, AMAZON DE, AMAZON UK, and http://1placeforromance.com/index.php?searchMe=tamela+quijas&column=author&_a=viewCat to find my novels at stunning prices!
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September 10, 2011
My Lord Raven's latest review!
I'm doing the HAPPY DANCE today! I stopped in, which is unusual for a Saturday, but I finally had a chance after a week worths of crazy college tests and homework. Hopefully, I can dash out close to 2000 words today on Tears of Blood, my upcoming paranormal romance and Book 3 of the exciting Blood Chronicles. You know, Bentham, New Jersey, becomes more mysterious each time I write!
Meanwhile, I found this wonderful review for My Lord Raven, my contemporary romance, at Amazon! ***My thanks to S. Atkins for enjoying Dante's tale of lost love ***
~~5 Stars!~~
Have you ever had a dream at night in which you saw a beautiful strangers' face with intense clarity? Have you then thought this could be the love of your life?
Dante Burroughs is a man, who has his feet firmly planted in reality: This strikingly handsome British nobleman is not only the heir of a vast family fortune, he also managed to make more of it by running an internationally successful company, establishing him further as a pillar of the picturesque British countryside community he lives in. A community just as rich in history as Dante's ancestry, which is shrouded by the mists of time.
One thing is very clear though, and it constantly interferes with Dante's private life: The image of an incredibly beautiful woman haunting him in his dreams. Along with his vast inheritance a portrait was passed along to him as well: The portrait of Raven's Lady, a mysterious young woman, who fell in love with one of Dante's ancestors, but disappeared and thus sparked a quest for her bound to last for centuries …
In "My Lord Raven", Tamela Quijas presents not only a powerfully told love story superbly interlaced with sensual dream sequences, but also the history of an influential British family. Dante finds the woman of his dreams in an unlikely place, but the quest doesn't end there, because, as we all know, it's never easy to turn one's dreams into reality.
You can find a copy of My Lord Raven at:
Smashwords : https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/4140
1Place for Romance : http://1placeforromance.com/romantic-fiction/my-lord-raven/prod_581.html
ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS: http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-mylordraven-525537-149.html
and Amazon Retailers WORLDWIDE!
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September 9, 2011
My review of Shannon Bailey's Shadowbrook Manor
Yes, the mystique of Shadowbrook Manor slipped into my hands this week! Learn more about Shadowbrook Manor at http://www.baileysbooksonline.net/Shadowbrook.htm and read on, dear friends, to see what I think of the ghosts of Mackinac Island !
BLURB:
From the author of "The Haunted Hillerman House" comes Shannon Bailey's latest. . . Only this time the tales are true and the ghosts are real!
Samantha Morgan's husband had a secret.
One that was revealed only after his death.
One that left her more angry than heartbroken.
One that led her to the historic Mackinac Island in upstate Michigan.
To a dark house with a dark past . . . And haunted by a dark ghost.
WARNING: Readers do not scour these pages for things that cause fear and fright. This is a tale of subtle ghostly happenings and romantic delight.
Pick up your copy at:
Bailey's Books Online: http://www.baileysbooksonline.net/
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/shadowbrook-manor?store=ebook
MY REVIEW:
Last night, I sat down again and breathlessly re-read Shadowbrook Manor.
In fact, I've read Shadowbrook three times this week. There really isn't any other way to explain how magnificent the latest from Shannon Bailey truly is! Ms. Bailey captured me with the beauty of this tale, set in the lovely Mackinac Island. I've never been to this part of the United States, but I have seen the movie Somewhere in Time (one of my favorite tear-jerker romances). The movie and those breathtaking actors are mentioned in this captivating tale, as well as the thrilling ghostly haunts that draw thousands of people to this wonderful region.
Shadowbrook Manor begins with the most horrible of times for our lovely Samantha Morgan. Recently widowed, she's dealing with a number of situations that weigh on her. Her husband has died in a horrible car crash–with another woman. Angered, shamed, she hears the whispers and pity at his funeral and her fury boils. When his will is read, she inherits nothing–absolutely nothing— from their years of marriage. His brother takes the company, and his parents have the mysterious Victorian manor on Mackinac Island. Whether Sam considers it a blessing or not, her in-laws give her the home, seeming more than glad to have both out of their lives.
Shadowbrook Manor is located on charming Mackinac Island in upstate Michigan. Ms. Bailey has magnificently described the scents, flavors, and views of this gorgeous place. Through her words, I could 'hear' the horse-drawn carriages, 'smell' the sea, and 'feel' the damp grass between my toes. I 'felt' Sam's anger as she stormed through a beautiful home built in the late 1800s, wondering where her husband had slept with his mistress, where they had laughed and cuddled, and I understood why she wanted to rid herself of the property. Above all, I could hear the voices of hr new-found friends, Ginny and Tobias, telling her of the tale of deliciously handsome Capt. Alexandre O'Keefe.
Sam has Shadowbrook, a gorgeous Victorian mansion, haunted by the ghosts of a murdered captain who has been waiting for his lost ladylove!
Beautifully poignant, there aren't enough words to explain the enchantment I felt while reading into the lives of Sam, Ginny, Leslie, and Alexandre. I'll admit I cried all three times through the HEA and have placed Shadowbrook Manor on my permanent Keeper List of great romances!
5 STARS!
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September 8, 2011
….And the WINNERS are……
This past week, in conjunction with I'm a Reader, Not a Writer and Buried in Books, I was one of those lovely jump sites on the Back to the Books Giveaway Hop.
I can't thank all the wonderful participants enough for dropping in and saying hi, and big hugs to each and every one of you! I hope you had time to drop into other amazing blog sites and discover some great authors and friends that love to read.
As promised, I'm announcing the winners of the TWO $50 gift cards I'm giving out for Barnes & Noble and
September 6, 2011
What's on my reading list this week? Shadowbrook Manor by Shannon Bailey
Yes, the mystique of Shadowbrook Manor has slipped into my hands this week. Shannon Bailey's latest thrilling novel promises to send chills down my spine and forever make me a dedicated fan of this fantastic author! I love the depth of feeling and emotion that Ms. Bailey puts into her novels — my favorites being her absorbing vampire saga recently release in the combined version of The Unwilling. Learn more about Shadowbrook Manor at http://www.baileysbooksonline.net/Shadowbrook.htm and stay tuned for what I think of the ghosts of Mackinac Island on Thursday!
BLURB:
From the author of "The Haunted Hillerman House" comes Shannon Bailey's latest. . . Only this time the tales are true and the ghosts are real!
Samantha Morgan's husband had a secret.
One that was revealed only after his death.
One that left her more angry than heartbroken.
One that led her to the historic Mackinac Island in upstate Michigan.
To a dark house with a dark past . . . And haunted by a dark ghost.
WARNING: Readers do not scour these pages for things that cause fear and fright. This is a tale of subtle ghostly happenings and romantic delight.
Pick up your copy at:
Bailey's Books Online: http://www.baileysbooksonline.net/
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/shadowbrook-manor?store=ebook
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September 1, 2011
My review of Exodus by April Alisa Marquette
My review is up for Ms. Marquette's latest wonder!
Sultry Aqua wants to get married. Supper Club owner Dyson does not. He proposes however-that she should fill in for his club's absentee hostess. Aqua does, and meets dashing business owner Noel, who invites her to accompany him to several coastal isles.
Despite dire warnings not to go, the sexy pair make the island-hopping trek. Strange things begin to happen. On the little known Miraunga Isle, Aqua begins to sleepwalk. At night she glides through the bayou, and alligator filled swamps. During the day, she drifts down hallways dusty with disuse, and floats along on forbidden floors. She also takes refuge in a centuries-old cemetery, because she's become privy to disturbing things. Believing she's witnessed a murder, she desperately needs answers. However, her inquiries have caused all hell to break loose. Someone or something desires to take Aqua's life.
Bewildered and out of options, dashing Noel summons the High Priestess from a neighboring isle. As he and Aqua nervously wait, they can only wonder. Will the priestess arrive…before it's too late?
Pick up your copy of Exodus at:
AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Exodus-Sea-Isles-ebook/dp/B0047GNEE2/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1314275820&sr=8-6
BARNES & NOBLE: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/exodus-april-alisa-marquette/1017014721
MY REVIEW:
I'm entering my review with a bit of bias. How else can I tell you how I love Ms. Marquette's writing and I've enjoyed every book she's written?
Exodus was a breath of fresh air, as entrancing as the wonderful character of Aqua. As a reader, I felt Aqua grow, fall in love with a man who truly deserves her, and begin to live life in the fullest. Noel—mmmmm….Ms. Marquette draws an image of a man who is human and oh-so-believable. That's the magic behind April Alisa Marquette's writing–she slips the reader into a world where her characters are believable—filled with mistakes, grief, pain, joy, and love. As always, she gives me a character I love to hate–who doesn't deserve the beautiful heroine or her love. Thankfully, the hero is her perfect foil, and April's description is always a bit breath-taking, but human.
Exodus pulled all my favorite senses in and drew me to the edge of my seat, filled with unexplained events that unravel on the mystifying Miraunga Isle. Thanks to the author's descriptiveness, I could 'feel' the sultry heat; hear the sounds surrounding our couple, Noel's bewilderment, and Aqua's desperation. As I wrote earlier, Ms. Marquette spins magic with her words.
5 wonderful stars
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