Karen Swart's Blog, page 18
June 14, 2015
New Release–Reality by Dani Hart @authordanihart @sparklebooktour
Presented by : Sparkle Book Tours
Reality - The Arie Chronicles # 1 by Dani Hart
Audience: Young Adult - Genre: Fantasy - Format: E-Book & Paperback - Publisher: Anchor Group - ASIN: B00ZM52PQU - Date Published: June 12, 2015
To be extraordinary was a fate Arie Belle had never imagined. Her days had been filled with naïve pleasures and promising love, but all that changed one tragic day when her mother was killed under mysterious circumstances, plunging Arie’s life into dark and hopeless times where her lifelong friend, River, was her only beacon of light.
After years of numbness, a beautiful stranger, Ashe, entered her world and took her soul to places it had never been, across realities trapped within the worlds of fairy tales. Could he be her savior, or would she find the strength within to be her own?
Along her journey, she quickly unraveled the secret behind her uncanny connection with nature and her mother's killer. But one mystery remained—one of scripted destiny and the pull of the dark forces of life. Could she find the answers she needed before the next full moon? Or would death claim her as it had been painted in the fate of the stars?
Goodreads / Amazon / Smashwords
https://youtu.be/yliGaOv3XbU
I'm a... Mom
Firefighter Wife
Sister
Sister-In-Law
Daughter
Aunt
Friend
Multi-genre Writer
Reader
and so many other ordinary things.
I love my life and am so grateful for all of the support. I have the courage to live a dream. Xo
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June 11, 2015
Cover Reveal: Secrets Under the Big Top by CS Patra @CyberPeacock @sparklebooktour
Presented by: Sparkle Book Tours
Secrets Under the Big Top Portman Creameries Cases: Black Paradise Circus # 1 by CS Patra
Audience: 13 + - Genre: Mystery/Thriller - Format: E-book and Paperback - Publisher: CS Patra - Cover by: Angie at Pro ebook covers - Editor: Proofreading by the page - Pages: 160 pages - Expected Date of publishing: June 2015
Meet the women of Portman's Creamery as they take on some of their toughest cases. Led by Irene and Chrissie Garcia-Galvan, join Pippa, Becca, Mary Beth, Stacey, and Winky as they head down to the circus for their first difficult case. When children start disappearing all over the country, there is only one thing that connects them; the Black Paradise Circus. The girls begin to investigate alongside their detective friend, Chase Owen. The evidence is very little and time is running out. Struggling with an incident in her past, Irene opts to break rules and start investigating behind the law's back. Bit by bit, they begin to learn the story behind the circus and meet the performers. Things run smoothly for now but what will happen when Chase finds out the truth? One false move and everything will blow up in their faces. Will the girls be able to solve the case and keep their friendship intact before they're too late?
Smashwords / Amazon
CS Patra has been writing for a long time and is the author of several book series. Her books range from romance and paranormal to fantasy and erotica. She continues to write within her free time and hopes to do it well after she has retired. She currently lives in North Carolina with her family.
Website / Facebook / Twitter / Amazon / TSU
Book Blast & Interview :Amber Prelude by Kevin B. Henry @Kevin_Henry
Amber Prelude
Amber Gifts
Prequel
Kevin B. Henry
Genre: Fantasy, Time Travel, Science Fiction, and History
Publisher: Burst/ Champagne Books
Date of Publication: June 01, 2015
Word Count: 20,000
Formats available: eBook, PDF
Cover Artist: Ellie Smith
Book Description:
Mitchell didn't really believe the story the Man told him, Just take a sip and speak a year. He whimsically chose a historic event to witness. Little did he know he would become part of that history. Faster than you can say Teithwyr Amser our man Mitchell is chasing a bona fide assassin not only across America but across time.
Amber Prelude will require Mitchell to travel from the America he knows to France and Africa. He will travel to decades and centuries he is unfamiliar with. Mitchell will chase authentic villains and make historic friends, all in an attempt to set history back the way he remembers.
1963: New Mexico
It had started simply. I uncapped the vial, drank the liquid, and spoke the year I had chosen aloud. The room spun. I dissolved.
I anticipated nothing happening. I began by sitting at the old wooden table feeling numb. My expectations extended to looking for shelter the following morning. Maybe I would move under a bridge for a short time; maybe I would do something much worse to myself.
I’d experienced severely morbid thoughts for months. Moving often transformed me. A nightmarish combination of a manic and depressed person was all I had been until the vial. It continued for months, and I expected it to continue forever. What I didn’t expect was a twisting feeling in my chest and lower abdomen. It wasn’t painful, just an unusual feeling. I didn’t expect the room to blur. I blinked several times, but it wasn’t my eyes; the room was blurry. Soon the room ceased to exist.
I had not spent long hours considering the year I would move to. I flippantly selected 1963. It would give me almost ten years before my birth moment and I vanished from the universe forever. The Man was specific about not existing past my birth moment. It would give me a chance to see some of the most tumultuous years in America, civil rights marches, hippies, the moon landing. My choice of year would give me a chance to stand at Dealey Plaza and personally see if there was a second shooter. It was a shallow choice, but it was the best I could come up with.
My first thought as the world congealed around me was that I had said something wrong. Had I said 1863? It was night. The stars above me were crisp and clear. Sagebrush surrounded me in all directions. Gone were the smells of the city. My senses absorbed a clean, fresh smell. This was how I remembered the world use to be. A scrub oak blended with the evening shadows just a few feet to my right. To my left was a light in the distance, a campfire. The flames created dancing shadows on the two trees surrounding the fire. Someone sat next to the fire, stirring the flames, sparks rising into the starry sky.
I walked toward the fire. I didn’t see that I had any choice; every other direction was pitch-black. Halfway there he rose from his place at the fire and raised his left hand above his head.
He sparkled. It wasn’t anything residual from the fire. His whole body twinkled and sparkled. It was disturbing.
“About time, Mitchell,” he yelled. “I’ve been waiting here for damn near three days.” “Come on in. I’m sure you have questions, son.”
I got over my initial anxiety of the twinkle man and sat on the far side of the fire. We had been sitting before the fire for fewer than five minutes. I was dazed, confused, and overwhelmed. Less than an hour ago, I was sitting in a dingy, two-bit hotel room.
Now, here I was, in some large expanse of desert in the company of someone who looked like Ray Teal, that quintessential sheriff on so many TV westerns and movies. He wore standard blue jeans, a simple button-front dress shirt, and a light-gray jacket. This twinkle man had a slouch hat, not exactly cowboy, but not a fedora either. He was half a foot shorter than me, stockier, and a minimum of twenty-five-years older, if I had to guess his age. There was salt and pepper stubble covering his face. His voice was deeper than mine, but not so deep that I envied it.
“Okay,” I began. “Where am I?”
“New Mexico,” he answered without hesitation. “You’re about three miles east of Tucumcari.”
I considered that answer. “When am I?”
“It’s November, 1963.”
“What’s the date, the day?” It concerned me I might miss my reason for picking this year.
“It’s the sixth.” A wave of relief swept over me. I wasn’t too late.
His answers were rapid-fire, no pauses or measurable moments that I would have considered creative thinking. He was either telling the truth or extremely well prepared for my random questions. I tried to think of the relevant questions I should ask. The standard ones, who, what, when, where, seemed a good place to start.
“How did I get here?”
“Well now, that’s an obvious answer to a poorly considered, ill-thought out question.” He shook his head. “You took a drink from that vial you have tucked away in your jacket pocket.”
A sudden gust of wind caused me to wrap my windbreaker tighter around my body. Maybe it wasn’t the night air. I was a little hurt. It wasn’t an attempt at sounding stupid; just understand what had happened to me.
“How did you know I was coming?” Maybe that question would seem less inept.
“Now that’s complicated.” He answered this question more slowly. He was thinking more and not just responding. “My name is Gil, Gil Seward. I got a letter just a few days ago. It asked me to come here and see if you’d appear. The letter said to just wait here a while and see if you drank from the vial or not. If you did, I’m supposed to help you out a little. Get you started and send you on your way.”
“Asked by whom? That guy who gave me the vial?”
“Yeah” was his only response. I hate one-word answers.
“Who was he? Why did he give me this vial?”
“He was someone I owed a favor. I haven’t seen him for a long time. He isn’t someone you need to know. Forget him. I don’t know why he decided to give you his vial. He just did.”
He paused for a while, stirring the fire with his stick, a small branch from one of the nearby trees.
“One last question for now,” he said. “Make it a good one.”
“Okay, Gil,” I said, using his name for the first time. “Why the hell do you sparkle? You look like some creation by Industrial Light, a special effect in a vampire or science fiction movie.”
“Forgot all about that,” he laughed. “You sparkle too. You just can’t see it. You started as soon as you drank from the vial. All Amser will sparkle.”
“What’s an Amser?”
“Sorry, Mitchell, You’ve reached your limit on questions for now. It’s my turn to ask some.”
I started to say something, but the look on his face made me stop. I hoped that ‘for now’ meant there would be more answers in the future.
“What made you pick this year?”
“It wasn’t a rational decision. Who would believe this would really work? I figured I’d see something special, something historic. Dallas and the Kennedy assassination was a significant event in my life. All the other conspiracy theories I remember while growing up could never surpass this one event. Standing on the grassy knoll and knowing beyond a doubt if there was or wasn’t a second shooter seemed as good an idea as any.”
“With all of history to choose from, you wanted to watch somebody die?”
“That wasn’t my motivation.” I said “I thought of it more as watching a documentary on TV.”
“We’ll see what you think of your documentary as you watch it live. Did you have plans afterward?”
“I don’t have many concrete plans. Just live out the next decade before I die.”
“Why would you want to die?”
“The Man said I couldn’t live past my birth moment. That was another reason I came here. That gives me several years to live before that time.”
“He didn’t tell you?”
“Tell me what?”
“You have it all wrong, Mitchell. You can use that vial repeatedly. Just refill it. You can travel to any year, any time, as often as you want, as many times as you want. You’re not stuck in this year or decade forever.”
I’m not sure my mouth actually fell open, but that is how I remember it.
Character Name: Mitchell
Character Bio: Originally an unemployed former college instructor, homeless and living a very tenuous existence. Once he is given his amber vial and the ability to travel in time he is more confident and feels a bit more secure, although staying alive seems to be just as tenuous.
Describe yourself what is your worst and vest quality?
I really don’t wear vests very often. Maybe people would use the same answer for that question, my sense of humor. I would answer that I can be too trusting, I’m loyal and want to be helpful to people I meet. Those can be both the worst and the vest. (Mitchell winks)
What is the one thing you wish other people knew about you?
My life is pretty much an open book. I mean I have to keep so many secrets from regular, linear people that it gets a little confusing sometimes. I guess the simplest answer is, yes, it’s really all my own hair.
What is your biggest secret something no one knows about?
I’m a time traveller. The only other people who know are my fellow time travellers and that’s only because we simmer and twinkle like some darn movie special effect.
What are you most afraid of?
Doing something that implodes the universe or creates a paradox that can’t be ignored or checking out a library book in 1924 and forgetting to return it until 1948.
What do you want more than anything?
Like most everyone, a good, simple life with a family I love. Some good barbeque would also be nice.
What is your relationship status?
Now remember, this is time travel so ‘it’s complicated’. In this story I am single but in my previous story, which takes place after this current story I am involved with Crystin, an amazing strong and independent woman. Got it? Single now but involved before-later. That’s kind of confusing. I think my friend Robert Heinlein said it best: “Then I quit trying to phrase it, realizing that if time travel ever became widespread, English grammar was going to have to add a whole new set of tenses to describe reflexive situations - conjugations that would make the French literary tenses and the Latin historical tenses look simple.”
How would you describe your sense of fashion?
Simple. I like black and jeans. I have to wear clothes that blend in with the time however. Victorian, Edwardian, classic 1950s, I’ve collected a nice wardrobe of attire that meets most of my traveling needs.
How much of a rebel are you?
I rarely think of myself as a rebel, although I did spend a lot of time in the South at one point. I suspect that’s not what you were asking. (Mitchell winks)
What do you considered to be your greatest achievement?
Surviving, both in my homeless situation and then as I have jumped around through time. Neither has been particularly easy to survive.
What is your idea of happiness?
Home, family, what most people desire means the most to me. After that a good surf and turf dinner with all the fixings always brings a big smile to my face.
What is your current state of mind?
Well I’m between adventures right now, so I’m feeling pretty good, although from what I hear thing are going to get crazy again around November.
What is your most treasured possession?
I have a drawing an artist friend of mine gave me. It’s framed and in safe hands right now while I look for a place to call home. Then of course there is my vial. Without that I can’t travel, so I safeguard that very carefully.
What is your most marked characteristic?
You mean like the tattoo on my leg? I got that when I was young and it’s almost faded now. I didn’t think anyone could notice. You must have good eyes.
What is it that you, most dislike?
Dishonesty, injustice, and people just being mean for the sake of being mean are my biggest dislike triggers.
Which living person do you, most despise?
Since everyone is alive for me at some point in time that’s not an easy question to answer. I mean there are always motivations to be considered, Even Jack the Ripper must have had a reason to do what he did. There must be a story there. I try not to pre-judge anyone.
What is your greatest regret?
Not investing in several companies early on. Thankfully I got to go back in time and fix that so I have a nice little nest egg now.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Honesty, loyalty and a good sense of humor are all important. It’s nice if he’s willing to pick up the check every now and then too.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
Strength, independence and honesty are what I’m most interested in.
Who is your favorite hero in fiction?
Lazarus Long in any number of stories by Robert Heinlein. I liked how he managed to live for millennia. I wouldn’t mind doing that too.
Which living person do you most admire?
Again, since everyone is alive for me at some point in time that’s not an easy question to answer. People who have died for what they believe in I admire very much. Not famous people but the everyday people who go about their business and do the right thing for the right reason.
If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?
I wish I had better-looking feet. I’m afraid to travel to ancient Rome and wear sandals. My feet are that ugly. It could start a riot!
What is your motto?
Never give up. Never surrender. No, wait, that’s been taken. How about Live Long and Prosper? That’s been taken too? Darn! Okay. Let’s just use the old one I saw on this web site a long time ago: Time is Just the Beginning of the Adventure!
From an early age, Kevin B. Henry was a voracious reader. His collection of science fiction, fantasy and mystery books bring tears of envy to the eyes of many small community libraries.
Kevin has worked as an educator, technology specialist and day laborer most of his adult life. During all that time he lived the life of a frustrated author. That it took 30 years for him to piece together the series, Amber Gifts is a testament that the best meals need slow cooking to bring out the flavor.
The Amber Gifts Series begins with Amber Gifts. The second story, which is really the first, is Amber Prelude, and is available now. The third story, Amber Legacy continues where Amber Gifts left off. It will be available in November 2015. All are published by the wonderful folks at the Champagne Book Group. A fourth story is in the process of being written.
Kevin is a natural story teller, so it’s logical that he lectures occasionally. Topics range from the implementation of cutting edge technology hardware to the creation, modification and use of e-books within education. He constantly pursues research to expand his range of possible topics. His most recent research revolved around the aerodynamic properties of reindeer. He’s also been known to include little known facts and trivia within his presentations. Did you know just 146 years ago today the Union Army marched into Atlanta. It took longer than anticipated. They were delayed by a traffic jam on I-75 and the toll booth on Ga. 400
He continues to live in the Mid-West without human or domesticated mammal companionship.
Blog/Wesbite: www.ambergifts.blogspot.com
Twitter: @Kevin_Henry
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AmberGifts
Book Blast, Giveaway & Top Ten: Stolen Art by Ruth Silver @writeawaybliss
Presented by: Sparkle Book Tours
Stolen Art by Ruth Silver
Audience: Young Adult - Genre: Science Fiction - Format: eBook - Publisher: Lazy Day Publishing - Cover by: Lazy Day Publishing - Editor: Lazy Day Publishing - ISBN: 9781627508025 - ASIN: B00WTP8GQY - Date Published: April 28, 2015
Sixteen-year-old Madeline has been living on the streets, refusing to be part of the foster system. Biding her time until she's eighteen, with little to no money, she takes on a heist in hopes of making ends meet. What could possibly go wrong? Everything.
Getting caught is just the beginning of Madeline's adventure as she meets Weston and discovers the secret of where she came from. A dark and sinister past begins to emerge, and forces Madeline to come face to face with the unexpected.
Is it possible that she isn't who she thought she was? What happens when she is has to accept the reality of what is actually real?
Recommended: 15+
Amazon / Goodreads / Nook
I rush back up the dark stairwell, shoving the key into the doorknob. It takes a minute for the lock to click and I push myself inside the apartment, securing every lock and deadbolt. I can’t stay here in Hutchinson, Kansas any longer. Pulling my phone from my purse, I text Weston.
Tatiana is here. It’s not safe for me.
I grab the few belongings that have any value to me, sentimental or otherwise, and shove it into my shoulder bag, including the stolen silver necklace. It has value and if I’m forced on the run, I’ll need money to survive.
I know.
What did Weston mean he knew Tatiana is at the bar? Had he seen her? Is he there?
What do you mean, you know? I type into the phone. If he saw her, why didn’t he warn me? I can’t go down out the front door and it’s only a matter of time until she finds me just a few feet away. I grow restless waiting for an answer.
The phone buzzes and displays an incoming call from Weston. "Wes, tell me you’re here." The only thing to do is hop in his car and drive into the night, far from Kansas.
A female’s voice bubbles with laughter. "Oh he’s coming darling, but you should know he won’t get here in time. Amazing how easy it is to clone a phone number and steal his service. The advancements Stem Tech has made is encouraging."
Top Ten Movies
(In no particular order)
The Hunger Games
The Fault in Our Stars
Mamma Mia
Twister
Contact
The Wizard of Oz
Hannibal (I loved watching this movie in college to scare my roommate!)
Chicago
The Fifth Element
Empire Records
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Ruth Silver is the best-selling author of the Aberrant trilogy. With a passion for writing and a love of story-telling, Ruth is actively writing two series: Royal Reaper and Orenda. She also writes The Federal Agent Chronicles, an adult romance series under the name Ravyn Rayne for Blushing Books. Her interests include traveling, reading, and photography. Her favorite vacation destination is Australia. Ruth currently resides in Plainfield, Illinois. 
Blog / Website / Facebook / Facebook Ravun Rayne / Twitter / Twitter Ravyn / Goodreads / Amazon / Pinterest
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June 8, 2015
New Release & Giveaway!! Six Years by Stephanie Witter @StephanieR76
1-click now and meet Nolan and Brooklyn! I hope his lip ring is going to drive you as crazy as it does Brooklyn. ;)
Six Years by Stephanie Witter Book Cover : Jo Raven Release Day : June 9thCategory and genre : New Adult Contemporary RomanceNovel length : over 100.000 words. Standalone Blurb : They hadn’t seen each other in six years. She’d always had a crush on him. He'd only ever seen her like a little sister. And now...he’s back. Brooklyn I thought that he was a part of a distant past. I thought I didn’t feel anything for him now, but I was not so sure anymore. Having him back in my life, for however long it was, was making me see things differently. So many things had changed in the last six years and somehow I’d lost myself and forgotten all about my dreams. My home life was still a mess, my personal life was nothing to boast about and when I see how successful he is, how everything he’d always wanted came true, I couldn't help but feel lacking in a lot of ways. But he’s back and he needed me. I knew I was the only one who understood that part of his life, the only one he’s willing to share it with. My heart is still beating too hard and too fast for him and this time around, I was as much an adult as he was. Having a six year age gap didn't mean shit. Nolan Being back in Riverdale was harder than I thought. I’d turned my back on that life, but there had always been that one girl in my head. Little B. Now she’s nothing like the twelve year old girl I’d last seen. She’s a young woman, gorgeous and sexy. I couldn't stay away. There’s something drawing me to her and it goes beyond my need to reconnect with her, to have her back in my life and fill the hollow part of my chest. But I couldn't forget the little girl she had been; I shouldn’t forget the little girl she used to be. Growing up with a junkie mother and nobody else, my neighbor, Brooklyn, had been my only happy place. I had taken care of her, and when I had left, I had to leave behind a huge part of me. I couldn't do it again. I needed her. Once again, she’s the only person I want in my life, but I wasn’t sure if it was for all the right reasons. Were there too many obstacles in the way? Contemporary Romance standalone novel for readers over 18. Add SIX YEARS to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24932168-six-years
Amazon CA: http://www.amazon.ca/Six-Years-Stephanie-Witter-ebook/dp/B00Z7MMXPG/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1433791822&sr=1-1&keywords=Six+Years+stephanie+witter 1-click! Amazon US * Amazon UK * Amazon CA * B&N * iTunes * Kobo 
Short Excerpt: "I won’t push you away." His Adam’s apple jumped once and a smile brightened his face. My eyes landed on his pierced lower lip and a wave of lust punched me low in my belly. I cleared my throat, feeling uncomfortable with the pictures my brain conjured. He came closer, erasing the little space separating us. I could feel the washed away denim of his blue jeans and his firm thigh underneath against my bare leg. I wanted to close my eyes and revel in his presence, in the feel of his body against me, but I didn't. I kept my eyes open as he leaned into me and wrapped his arms around me. The lean muscles in his arms flexed, his bare and hot skin brushing mine. I felt naked in my tank top as his bare arms were doing things to me I never thought possible. "Relax, Brooklyn. It's just me," he said in my ear, his thin lips and loop tracing the words against the sensitive skin of my ear. I never realized before how an ear could be so erogenous. I couldn't believe it. I was in Nolan's arms six years after he left. He was here, in my bedroom. I took a deep breath and the smell of his clean clothes and the scent that was only him, assaulted me. I was taken back to six years ago, before I had to face the loneliness that was my life. Before I lost my best friend. But right now, I wanted to stay in his arms without thinking about his departure or the future. I wrapped my arms around his narrow waist and balled his t-shirt in my fists. He relaxed against me and ran a hand up and down my back, avoiding the small of my back that was bared by my tank top which had ridden up. "It feels different," he said, pulling away. He nibbled on the loop in his lower lip. I nodded and smiled weakly. Losing the heat and weight of his arms around me made me feel depressed. I missed that kind of attention, of touch. Mike and all the guys before him never hugged me just because they cared about me. If they hugged me it was with the purpose to have me naked minutes later and while I was all for it, it was also difficult when you had nobody to give you a real, warm hug. I’d forgotten what comfort felt like. "It's different. We're both adults now." 
About the author: Stephanie Witter is a French dreamer. She started learning English at three, and fell in love with the language. Always with a book, or two close by, she started reading in English when she couldn’t wait any longer for Harry Potter to be translated in French. After a while, reading wasn’t enough. She started writing Young Adult and New Adult Contemporary novels and PATCH UP is her first New Adult Contemporary novel. * Website * Blog * Goodreads * Twitter * Facebook Page * Tsu * Instagram * Pinterest * Giveaway:
Book Blast & Giveaway: Heart’s Duo by Charity Parkerson @charityparkerso
BOOK INFORMATION TITLE – Heart’s Duo SERIES – Ugly Eternity #4 AUTHOR – Charity Parkerson GENRE – M/M Romance PUBLICATION DATE – 05/18 LENGTH (Pages/# Words) – 41,000 PUBLISHER – Punk & Sissy Publications
BOOK INFORMATION What began as a half-baked scheme to help his brother win the man of his dreams has become a tailspin Joss can’t escape. His actions and secrets have kept him from making any real claim on the woman who captured his attention months ago. But secrets have a way of coming to light. Maddox has known from almost the beginning Joss has been playing games with his life. What he doesn’t realize is how deep the man’s deception runs. When Cade and Dylan’s wedding reception brings everyone together in one place, the entire story is revealed with a little help from Benton. And Hell hath no fury like a man with nothing left to lose. The implosion Joss has braced for has finally come to pass, changing everything forever. With Jamie and Hawke in another country, enjoying their happily ever after, Maddox is about to teach Joss a valuable lesson in toying with other people’s lives. What happens when bad decisions, manipulations, good intentions, and misunderstandings combine? It’s an Ugly Eternity.
BUY & TBR LINKS
AMAZON KINDLE US
AMAZON KINDLE CA
AMAZON KINDLE UK
EXCERPT How the pair didn’t feel all the eyes upon them, Benton couldn’t explain. They were standing close enough Benton could make out every letter of Jamie’s name spelled out in permanent ink across the inside of Hawke’s forearm. Knowing Jamie, as he did, the man couldn’t care less who was watching them. He didn’t relent until Hawke was laughing so hard no sound emerged. Benton went back to watching Maddox. There was something about the entire situation niggling at that back of his mind. Something slightly off. Maddox was so focused on the pair he’d yet to notice Benton, leaving him free to puzzle it out.
This man had cheated on Hawke, throwing everything away. By all accounts, he should’ve let this go a long time ago. He’d broken things off and moved another man in. His expression said none of those things. Benton glanced around, Hawke and Jamie were still dancing. Sophie and Joss were in the corner having an up-close discussion. How had Joss came to be with Sophie over the last few months? None of it made any sense. If Maddox had put Hawke out and moved Joss in, why would Maddox watch Hawke instead of Joss? Benton’s gaze returned to Maddox. Maddox smiled at the sight of Hawke’s laughter and Benton knew. It was exactly like someone ripped back the curtain, revealing the real story.
“Oh my god.”
Maddox visibly startled at Benton’s cry. He couldn’t stop. The truth slammed into him with such power Benton couldn’t contain it. It brought him to his feet. Maddox lifted his glass to his lips, taking a sip. Benton wondered if the man was attempting to hide his emotions before focusing on him.
“Didn’t see you there,” Maddox said after a moment. Benton ignored Maddox’s statement of the obvious.
“Oh my god,” Benton repeated, pointing at him. He didn’t care if he looked like a madman.BOOK SOUNDTRACK https://open.spotify.com/user/1213597...
AUTHOR BIO Charity Parkerson is an award winning and multi-published author with Ellora's Cave Publishing, Indie Publishing House LLC, and Punk & Sissy Publications. Born with no filter from her brain to her mouth, she decided to take this odd quirk and insert it in her characters. *Winner of 2, 2014 Readers' Favorite Awards *2015 Golden Flogger BDSM Award Finalist *2013 Readers' Favorite Award Winner *2013 Reviewers' Choice Award Winner *2012 ARRA Finalist for Favorite Paranormal Romance *Five-time winner of The Mistress of the Darkpath Fan email – admin@charityparkerson.com AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS Amazon Author Page – Website/Blog – Newsletter – Facebook – Twitter – Google+ – Pinterest – Tumblr – Networked Blogs – Goodreads – Shelfari – Others –
Passionate Ink
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June 5, 2015
Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: A New Day at Midnight by Michelle Hiscox
A New Day at Midnight
The Hearne Family Saga
Book 1
Michelle Hiscox
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Bookkus Publishing
Date of Publication: February 14, 2015
ISBN: 0991709497
ASIN: B00TGOODU4
Page Count Print – 264
Page Count Electronic – 268
Word Count: 92,691
Cover Artist: Bookkus Publishing
Book Description:
When Merik Hearne finally lays claim to the woman that betrayed him, she inspires much more than his need for revenge—but is her love worth dying for again?
Condemned to play host to a demon, the scarred Romani leader has amassed a fortune with only one goal in mind—to possess Hannah Worthington, the traitorous beauty that has eluded him for over a decade. With an exchange of coin, everything he has been striving for is within reach but nothing is as he imagined. The tender, sharp-tongued woman he encounters tests the bounds of his convictions and he is torn between the promise of reckoning and longing for a love that once destroyed him.
Exchanged for a purse of gold and informed she is to be a slave, Hannah vows she has not survived a lifetime of loss only to wither under the likes of Merik Hearne. And she will do everything she can to make sure he knows it. Despite his overbearing manner, his fierce scars, and her own determination to escape him, she begins to see that something beautiful might lie beneath…something that belongs only to her. She must discover the angle from which the great lord plays before his dark desires consume them both.
As they struggle to find truth amid pasts marred by sorrow and secrecy, they are unaware that a vengeful apostle orchestrates the rise of a forgotten god—and the end of their chance at a life together.
Available at Amazon Amazon.ca Amazon.co.uk BN
Excerpt
As Merik looked about the darkness of his cell with new eyes, he saw Hannah standing in the corner. He knew she was not truly there, but the voice of the other ensured he did not look away as it whispered in his ear. He saw her many times, always a mirage, always torturous. Unsure if his rage outweighed his disappointment at her absence, he listened.
She mocks you, young one. She told those men where to find you. She told them lies about you. They could know nothing without her betrayal. You will find her. Make her bleed. You will find her and make her pay for each transgression. Sink your teeth deep within her and watch the blood flow over the ground. Drink her dry until her offences are but a memory. It will ease the agony, as nothing else will.
Merik saw her a thousand times during his short stay in the cellar. The pain sliced through him, and it would not ease no matter how much his father fed him. Nothing helped to suffuse the suffering until he began seeing Hannah in the confines of the cell.
He saw her exactly as she looked that night at the clearing. In spite of himself, he found himself reaching for her hand, and did so each time she appeared to him. Desire bubbled to the surface and he despised it, closing his eyes against the sight of her. The image played over and over in his mind, running like a crooked wheel. He saw the woman who destroyed him, the woman who destroyed his brothers, and he could think only of making her suffer—until he thought of touching her again.
The bottle shattered in his hand from the force of his grasp, and he looked down to see shards of glass embedded within the flesh of his palm. When he looked up, Hannah was gone.
Tour giveaway
5 print or ebook copies of A New Day at Midnight (winner’s choice, print available to US and Canadian Shipping Only)
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Did you always want to be a writer? If not what did you
want to be?
Not always, for a long time I wanted to be a psychologist
and help others reach their goals. I managed to achieve a big part of that, but
writing never really left my mind. My
late twenties hit and writing a novel was no longer just a thought, it was what
I needed to do.
How long did it take to get your first book published?
It took about 4 months from the time I actually started
looking before I found a publisher. I know that’s a quick turn around, but I
had a friend pursuing publication through a review driven publisher and decided
to try it as well. I received high enough ratings to move forward, and landed a
contract.
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell
us more about it?
I’m a Case Manager working with at-risk youth in rural
Alberta. I help with job search, employer connections, and a very eclectic
collection of job duties. Counseling and support play a big part in my role.
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to
summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
It’s called A New Day at Midnight, and it’s an intense
love story between a Romani merchant cursed as a Vetala (demon) and the strong
willed woman he believes betrayed him.
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
Bookkus Publishing, a publisher based out of Calgary,
Alberta, chose to publish my book.
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from
the original idea to finishing writing it?
Well the last one took me seven years, a number I try not
to think of too much. It started as a very loose idea, and it took me a long
time before I really got momentum on the project. I’m working on the second
installment in the series, Chasing Dawn,
which I plan to finish by Christmas. My commitment to writing has definitely
grown over the years.
What genre would you place your books into?
Definitely Paranormal Romance.
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
I’ve been a Stephen
King fan since I was basically still a kid, a JR Ward fan since my twenties.
Paranormal Romance provides the perfect balance of romance and horror. I think
my love of these particular genres evolved to influence my writing.
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why
are they your favorite?
Merik is probably my favorite character, an anti-hero
really. He’s flawed and misdirected but still suffers (or benefits) from the
conscience fighting through his demon.
How long have you been writing, and who or what inspired
you to write?
I’ve been writing since I was a kid, I remember getting
graded on my early stories. I had family that encouraged reading, and teachers
that encouraged my writing. The books I’ve read inspired me to write as well
and I really wanted to create something as compelling as the authors I love,
but something unique and moving.
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie
You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
It’s almost always at night. Just my laptop and I, often
with a wide range of musical accompaniment.
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then
choose the title?
The book starts first. I have an additional two novels in
the works, and I named them only when I had a good amount of content developed.
How do you come up with characters names and place names
in your books?
In A New Day at
Midnight, some character names were based on Romani heritage, some were
based on the time period, and others were simply based on preference.
Are character names and place names decided after their
creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?
I always choose character names first, pinpoint a general
area for the setting of the book and create and use place names based on that
geography.
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy
girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
I have a basic understanding of who the characters are in
my mind before I start writing, often a strong understanding. A lot of the
character development does happen along the way though, influenced by scenes or
events.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or
paperback?
I’m still a fan of holding a bound book in my hands, but
I’m coming around to eBooks.
What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once?
I have more than a few. Lover Awakened by JR Ward, The
Stand by Stephen King, and the I Am
Legend by Richard Matheson. I’ve read them all more than once.
Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you
favorite/worst book to movie transfer?
I think books can transfer well to film, look at Game of
Thrones. Both versions are fantastic. The transfer can also be unsuccessful. In
the movie I Am Legend for example,
they omitted the most important part of the story for a more Hollywood ending.
Bad transfer.
Your favorite food is?
Poutine. Stereotypically Canadian fare.
Your favorite singer/group is?
Lana Del Rey is among my favorites, especially her Video
Games album.
Your favorite color is?
Yellow. It makes me happy!
Your favorite Author is?
JR Ward, hands down.
About the Author:
Michelle Hiscox is a Paranormal Romance fan and author who hails from Drumheller, Alberta. The dinosaur bones buried in the hills of her hometown inspired the first stories she ever wrote, and she feels blessed to walk those same hills with her daughter today. Crocus flowers and dust bowls full of cactus never fail to inspire.
While her little girl and husband provides many welcome distractions to writing, it's something she always finds her way back to. Michelle is the proud, and slightly crazy, owner of two dogs and three cats, all animals she loves more than she reasonably should. She's been reading voraciously since she was a child and, one night, pulled her nose from a book to start writing her own.
Website – http://www.michellehiscox.com
Blog – http://www.michellehiscox.com/#!blog/c112v
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009234082124
Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13508742.Michelle_Hiscox
Amazon Author Page –http://www.amazon.com/l/B00VO2K990
Book Blast & Giveaway: My Best Friend’s Bride by Ginny Baird @GinnyBaird
BOOK INFORMATION
TITLE – My Best Friend’s Bride
AUTHOR – Ginny Baird
GENRE – Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy
PUBLICATION DATE – June 9, 2015
LENGTH (Pages/# Words) – 72K
PUBLISHER – Winter Wedding Press
COVER ARTIST – Dar Albert
BOOK SYNOPSIS
From New York Times Bestselling Author GINNY BAIRD, a new laugh-out-loud romantic comedy...
Relationship expert Jillian Jamison is in a bind. While her first book was a successful bestseller, her second tome tanked. Now, her publisher wants a spin on the third book, Married Love: Keeping Those Home Fires Burning, that's up close and personal. With financial pressures mounting and sole responsibility for her aging grandfather, Jill feels forced into wedlock. But it's only for a year and she's devised a plan with her long-term friend. When Brad backs out, Jill fears she'll be left standing at the altar. Then Brad offers a solution: Jill can marry the one man on earth she despises...his handsome best friend.
Hunter Delany is a confirmed bachelor and that's how he likes it. When his best friend Brad approaches him with an unusual contract, he's determined to run for the hills, especially since the name on the paperwork is international celebrity Jillian Jamison, the woman who spurned him in high school. Hunter would rather do anything than spend twelve months of his life saddled with her. But he has a soft spot for Brad who's in a predicament, so Hunter agrees to consider Brad's proposal. When Hunter learns he's getting passed over for a job promotion, because the client only wants to work with those in a family way, this clinches the deal.
Hunter is "in" for as long as he can stand it. Jill is not thrilled with the arrangement either. But really, what choice does she have? Even if it has to look authentic on the outside, between her and Hunter it's just pretend. Besides, she reasons rationally, she's already got the dress...
BUY & TBR LINKS
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EXCERPT
Before Jill knew what was happening, he reached for her and clamped her against his chest in a big bear hug. His frame was rock solid and he smelled of musky cologne. Hunter’s arms wound around her securing her at the waist. “Sorry bud,” he whispered to Brad, “the press is watching.”
Jill stared up at him, her mind whirling. “Hunter! Just what are you doing?” She didn’t know why, but her knees felt weak and her mouth went dry. She was probably in a state of shock. It wasn’t like she recalled that old longing she’d held, when she’d hoped to be in Hunter’s arms, so many years ago. Then, she’d imagined him to be a different kind of guy…the sort who could really care for a girl, and sweep her off her feet with one kiss. Not that she’d let him try, especially after learning what sort of guy he really was. The type who was only in it for the moment, and wouldn’t have given her a second thought once she’d completely given him her heart. His dark eyes caught the sunlight as he dipped his chin toward hers.
“Making us public,” he said with a grin. At once, Jill felt transported in time and she was all of seventeen again, helplessly under Hunter’s spell. The next thing she knew, his mouth was on hers, all hot and heavy, his tongue sweeping in to taste hers. Jill sagged in his arms and he tightened his embrace. This was wrong. This is insane… But Jill found herself kissing him back, just a little at first—and then a lot. He felt so good and smelled so fine, she nearly forgot they were standing at the edge of a parking lot. Jill’s temperature spiked as her tennis racket crashed to the ground. Oh man, he was good. Better than good. Hunter’s skill was top-notch. Excellent. Why oh why, had she waited so long? Or perhaps it was good she’d waited, until the fruit of her desire had ripened to perfection. Was it Jill’s imagination, or was Hunter just as ravenous for her? Somehow her arms were around him, her wrists overlapping at the back of his neck. It was almost like she was enjoying this, wanting more of him... What? Hunter? Jill called herself up short and broke away, stepping back with a gasp. At least she hoped she was gasping and not panting. Whoa.
Hunter saucily cocked an eyebrow and spoke with a husky rasp.
“Can I take that to mean you missed me, too?”
CHARACTER BIOS
Jillian (Jill) Jamison – The heroine from My Best Friend’s Bride, Jill Jamison, is a thirty-year-old relationship expert. She has shoulder-length brown hair and warm brown eyes with hints of honey around the irises. Jill’s first book, Love Like You Mean It, was an international bestseller. Her second tome, Long-term Love: Making It Last, tanked. Now, Jill’s under pressure to produce a third book, Married Love: Keeping Those Home Fires Burning, that’s up close and personal. The trouble is—though she’s experienced at giving others advice—Jill has never had luck in the boyfriend department herself. She has several ex-boyfriends, including Isaac who gave Jill her dog Fifi. Jill also has a Tom cat called Mimi. When hero Hunter hears about Fifi and Mimi, he refuses to live under the same roof with pets having such ridiculous sounding names. This makes Jill steamed, as does everything else Hunter says and does. When he unexpectedly lays a hot kiss on her while seeing her for the first time in twelve years, Jill’s absolutely furious! She’s also angry with herself for reacting so eagerly to Hunter’s advances. He’s the guy she’s hated since high school. Surely, a fake marriage will never fly with a dyed-in-the-wool womanizer like him! Forget that he’s more handsome than ever, and has that lop-sided smile that still makes her weak in the knees. And never mind that her deadline for marrying is only a few weeks away. Jill can’t imagine making things work with the type of cad she warns women about. Not Hunter Delaney! No way!
Hunter Delaney – Hero Hunter Delaney is also thirty and works for an advertising agency. He’s back in town after being away for more than a decade, during which he’s developed his skills on the job and failed at his numerous encounters with women. Hunter has his own reasons for guarding his heart, so emotionally he keeps females at bay. Ultimately, they become frustrated and walk out on him, just like Sabrina did when she almost clobbered him on the head with the three-inch high-heeled shoe she lobbed in his direction. Hunter has dark hair and eyes, a buff frame, and stands over six feet tall. He’s been Brad’s best friend since prep school, and has repeatedly come to Brad’s rescue by getting him out of trouble. This time is no different, except it involves that stuck-up brunette Jill Jamison, who was too good for Hunter in high school and now believes she’s better than the rest of the world. Okay, so Jill’s held up pretty well over the years and still has those pretty brown eyes Hunter mooned over as a teenager. But, deep down, she’s still an “ice princess” with that same chilly heart. At least, that’s what Hunter thinks until Jill’s fiery hello kiss has him believing she’s experienced a deep thaw…
Cassandra Evans – Cassandra Evans has been Jill’s nemesis since high school. For as long as Cassandra’s known Jill, Jill’s been a pain the neck, besting Cassandra again and again at every competition. Cassandra wanted to write novels, but instead she’s stuck working for a gossip magazine. And just look at Jill with her worldwide celebrity! Though Cassandra’s sneakily discovered that little-miss-prissy Jill isn’t always as successful as she claims to be. Cassandra takes pride in being the one who brought Jill’s second book down by publishing her exposé on the “fact behind the fiction” of Jill’s real dating life. Now, suddenly, looky here! Jill’s getting married! Not once, but twice! First, to her childhood friend Brad, which smelled fishy enough. Next, to famed womanizer Hunter Delaney, which stinks to high heaven! If anyone smells a rat, Cassandra does, and she’s extra good at getting to the bottom of things. Thank goodness she’s tall, blond and leggy, and has a way of influencing sources. She’s also got the wardrobe for tackling any undercover operation. A fact that comes in handy when she meets a nerdy—yet increasingly attractive—private investigator engaged in the same mission.
AUTHOR BIO
NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY Bestselling Author Ginny Baird has published novels in print and online and received screenplay options from Hollywood for her family and romantic comedy scripts. She writes touching, often humorous, contemporary romance about single women facing everyday challenges. Known for featuring holidays and family themes in her work, Ginny frequently portrays the struggles of single parents or others who've given up on finding true love.
Ginny has two novella series, The Holiday Brides Series (holiday romance) and The Summer Grooms Series (summer romance), as well as additional single titles available. She is a NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY Bestselling Author, a Top 10 Best Seller on Kindle, NOOK and iBooks, and a #1 Best Seller in several Romance and Women's Fiction categories. Visit Ginny's website www.ginnybairdromance.com to learn more about her and her books.
AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS
AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – WEBSITE – BLOG – FACEBOOK – TWITTER – GOODREADS
GIVEAWAY PRIZES
Five Copies Of The Calendar Brides by Ginny Baird (ebook edition: choice of Mobi or ePub)
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Book Blast & Giveaway: SAVE ME by Natalie-Nicole Bates @BatesNatalie
BOOK INFORMATION
TITLE – SAVE ME (Believe Again)
SERIES – RISE
AUTHOR – Natalie-Nicole Bates
GENRE – paranormal romance novella
PUBLICATION DATE – 1/2015
LENGTH (Pages/# Words) - 16,000 words
PUBLISHER – Leap of Faith Publishing
COVER ARTIST – Regina Paul
BOOK SYNOPSIS
For over one hundred years, Daniel Tremont searched for the woman who brought him back from the dead after a tragic fire. He is sure she is the love of his life. When he finally catches up with her, he realizes he’s made a terrible mistake.
Alone in his grief, Daniel stumbles upon the remains of a long shuttered insane asylum. In the distance, he sees a beautiful young woman beckon to him.
Is she real, or simply the spirit of a long dead former inmate of the asylum?
Brecklin is at the asylum to spend the last day of her life alone. Daniel’s arrival now complicates her plans. But Brecklin soon realizes Daniel isn’t an ordinary man. He is an extraordinary man. He needs her to save him, and in return, he will save her. Can she believe long enough to alter the course of her fading life, and maybe in return, find a forever love?
BUY & TBR LINKS
AMAZON KINDLE US
AMAZON KINDLE CA
AMAZON KINDLE UK
EXCERPT
A vision in pink.
He blinked hard to be sure he was seeing what he thought.
It was a woman standing in the open doorway of the morgue. Her long, almost waist length dark hair flowed over a pink dress that nearly reached her ankles. Her feet were bare.
Daniel’s heart began to beat double time in his chest, as she crooked a finger at him.
Was she real? Or was she some spirit of a former patient from Barrow Haven?
He seen some oddities over the years, most likely because of his eternal condition. But never a ghost or spirit like this one. She absolutely shined, and he found himself rooted to the spot, unable to lift his sneakered feet.
When she blew him a kiss, his feet unstuck, and he walked towards her. Just as he got closer, she suddenly turned, and darted into the open doorway of the morgue.
He knew he shouldn’t pursue her. He didn’t know what she was, or what game she may be playing. Yet he picked up his pace, until he entered the open doorway where she disappeared just a minute or two earlier.
*****
It was true he didn’t really know her, but his new keen sense of perception told him she was a kind, gentle soul, lovely…and lonely as he was. A woman without connection. And that made him even more attracted to her. An attraction that went beyond the beautiful face, or the use of her perfect, sexy body she freely gave to him.
It was something much deeper, he was sure. Something that had begun by chance, by fate, maybe. Something he could not just walk away from. Now she was telling him she would leave forever.
AUTHOR BIO
Natalie-Nicole Bates is a book reviewer and author.
Her passions in life include books and hockey along with Victorian and Edwardian era photography and antique poison bottles. Natalie contributes her uncharacteristic love of hockey to being born in Russia.
She currently resides in the UK where she is working on her next book and adding to her collection of 19th century post-mortem photos.
Visit Natalie online at www.natalienicolebates.com
AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS
AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – WEBSITE / BLOG – FACEBOOK – TWITTER – GOODREADS – Tsu – Street Team Sign Up – Facebook Fan Group
GIVEAWAY
$10 Amazon gift card
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Blitz Was Organized & Hosted By My Family's Heart
June 2, 2015
Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Enemy's Kiss by Kristi Jun @kristijunauthor
Enemy's Kiss
Kristi Jun
Genre: Regency Historical Romance
Date of Publication: May 12, 2015
ISBN: 13: 978-1511983536
ASIN: B00XLZ37NS
Number of pages: 270
Word Count: 73,000
Cover Artist: Kim Killion
Book Trailer: No
Book Description:
She gave up her future for justice...
Emma Willoughby had an idyllic life until her parents were murdered and her world, as she knew it, came undone. She sacrificed everything and even accepted a marriage proposal from a man she thinks knows the identity of the killer.
Unfortunately, he is murdered before she’s able to discover the truth. Now the Crown claims a mission to Tibet will bring the answers she seeks. The trouble is, the man who has been assigned to protect her, a man she'd once deceived, is an arrogant spy who wants nothing to do with her.
He lived a lie to protect his family...
Michael Whitfield left home nearly a decade ago, but when his childhood friend is murdered and accused of high treason, he is determined to clear his name and his killer be brought to justice no matter the cost, even if it meant accompanying the woman who turned out to be nothing more than a heartless viper. But as their mission takes twisted turns and reveals a sinister plot that threatens both their lives and the lives of the innocent, his admiration for her grows and sparks between them once again ignite. But can he trust his heart to a woman whose history holds nothing but lies?
Available at Amazon
Excerpt:
Finding the strength, Emma pulled away from the door, walked up the stairs, and stepped into her room, biting back the hot emotions igniting again with new purpose. She had no room for tears, no room for—
A cold blade drew up to her neck and her breath snagged in her throat. Her hands gripped the culprit’s solid arm and her chin tilted up as the cold knife pressed on her neck.
“Afraid?” A chilling yet familiar voice taunted.
His musky male scent propelled peculiar tingles up and down her spine. He lowered his free hand and slid into her bodice. She gasped when his fingers touched the tip of her breasts, heart racing with anticipation. With one flick of his hand, he pulled out a pen knife she'd hidden between the mounds of her bosoms before departing home. Before she could react he released her with a gentle shove, leaving several feet between them.
Their eyes met and her gaze swept the very tall length of him. She had forgotten how delicious he smelled. His stark blue eyes darkened and, for one single moment, she thought she caught a glimpse of lust brewing there.
Lust? Wrong. He despises you.
“Danger, Miss Willoughby, lurks everywhere.” Michael slid his knife back into the sheath tucked into his boot.
“Apparently so,” she whispered.
“I thought you were trained?” He tossed her knife on the settee.
“I am.” Her eyes swept his broad frame, the loose cravat about his neck.
“Really?” He walked around the room and tipped his head to look out the window, then back at her. “If that were the case, you would have had your knife about my neck. How many missions, exactly?”
She unlocked her gaze from his and turned to the window. She felt him approach, closer. Closer still. Her heart quickened. She dared not move.
"How many?"
One. But she was not about to give him the satisfaction. “I do not need to use physical force to accomplish my task.”
“Ah yes, the good old game of seduction. A skill you've quite mastered, I think. I know this first hand."
If only he knew the truth, he wouldn't be so cruel. She felt him approach her from behind, his hand caressing the curve of her neck. Slowly snaking around, he pulled her to him, her back now against his firm chest. Heat flared inside her, wishing for the impossible.
"That may work well with a target, especially when the poor soul is already in love with the spy charged to take him out, don’t you think?” he said.
She pulled away from him. "I did what I had to."
“Listen well. You are an amateur at best and you will only end up rotting in the gutter if you persist.” He took several strides towards her, leaving barely a foot between them.
“So you have come here to teach me a lesson? Is that it? I can assure you that there is nothing you can say or do to deter me from my goal.”
“No, I am not here to teach anyone a lesson. But I do need to know the extent of your capacity."
“Now you know, so kindly get the bloody hell out of my house,” she warned. Walking over to the settee, she retrieved her knife and held it firmly in her hand.
He didn’t bat an eye at her blasphemy. She refused to let this man intimidate her under his scrutiny. She tipped her chin up and looked squarely at him.
“Tell Lord Tomkin you want out and I'll give you my word to deliver the message and find the killer.”
Typical male, thinking he would be her knight to save the day. No, it was her responsibility to find justice for her family and to keep him on task. “I will do no such thing. I will have my satisfaction of looking him in the eye when he is caught.”
His jaws twitched. “Then I suggest you prepare yourself because we will be entering a hostile territory in the middle of a bloody war. Gurkhas will not hesitate to slit your throat once they discover you.”
“Gurkhas?” She tried to sound impassive, but her tone gave it away.
“Nepalese mercenaries,” he said. “Quite unforgiving where the English are concerned. Lord Hastings is fighting a bloody war that no English cares a damn about.” He paused for her reaction. “And the Chinese military, well….that’s another matter altogether.”
She'd deal with them once she was there. "Thank you for the cautionary advice. I am well prepared for miscreants that cross my path."
"I don't think you are," he said carefully. "And that can be very dangerous for us both."
She glared at him. “Since you seem to have everything figured out, what is your plan?”
“My plan,” he said with a mocking tone, “is to stay alive.”
“Is that supposed to frighten—”
“This isn't a game.”
His gaze fixed on her lips and lingered, sending waves of heat through her body. She cursed herself for allowing this man to affect her. “I’m quite aware this isn't a game, Mr.Whitfield.” Her tone belied her show of confidence. No doubt he could see her quaking skin and shivering nerves.
He looked deep into her eyes. "Emma," he said, his voice taking on a softer tone. "I need you to back away from this. I give you my word I'll find the killer."
Their gazes locked and she saw he meant what he said. "I can't," she said softly, shaking her head. "I won't."
He backed away from her, his features hardening once more. “Then I only have one thing to say to you."
"And what would that be?" she said, curtly.
"Be prepared," he said, "for the hell you are about to enter."
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you
want to be?
Looking back, I don't ever
recall wanting to become a writer growing up. I wanted to be a director or an
actor. I'm still involved in a story, but using a different medium to
communicate to the audience.
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
When I first received
a rejection letter from an agent after joining RWA. It was a day of joy, even
though it was a rejection. I felt I was seriously working toward a career in
becoming a published author.
How long did it take to get your first book published?
Once I pursued
publication as a career goal, it took me about 6 years and three finished
manuscripts.
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell
us more about it?
I'm an elementary
school teacher. I mainly teach in a severely handicap classroom. It's a tremendous
joy for me to be able to support these children anyway I can.
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to
summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
Enemy's Kiss: It's a Regency Romance, where Jane Austin meets Mission
Impossible.
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from
the original idea to finishing writing it?
I am a slow writer. With
my teaching job during the day and family at home, I have only the weekends to really
focus on my writing. From start to finish, it usually takes me about a year. I
am working on trying to get two books done in a year since I have a series
coming out soon.
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a
different genre?
I have a new series
called Sinful Ladies of London Novel. It is a Regency Romance and 9 book series.
The first book, Sinful Pleasures, will be out this fall. It has a fantastic,
sexy alpha hero and a strong willed heroine who will let no one stand in her
way of starting a school for fallen women. I promise it will be entertaining.
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
I've read historical
romance since I was a freshman in high school. The first book I read I fell in
love with the genre. It was a western historical romance set in Texas. I must
have read it several times before I had enough money to buy another one. I just
love the genre and can't get enough.
How long have you been writing?
I've been writing
stories since I was in 5th grade in my history class, often day-dreaming about
my alpha hero and heroines who love them.
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie
You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
I will either read a
chapter of my favorite book to get ideas flowing, or listen to some
instrumentals music. Or both. I love listening
to Enya and/or violin music when I start writing. If I am having a really
difficult time, I will often remove myself from the story and do something
else. It usually helps to get my creative juices flowing.
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
I'm a debut author, so
you can guess. I try not to, though. But I do appreciate all honest reviews of
my book. I think it helps readers find new book and new authors.
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then
choose the title?
For Enemy's Kiss, it
went though several titles. It changes as I am writing it.
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy
girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
I pretty much know my
main characters' trait before I write them. I know their back stories as it
helps me to anchor the story and how these characters are going to react to
certain situations in the plot.
Are there any hidden messages or morals contained in your
books? (Morals as in like Aesops Fables type of "The moral of this story
is..")
My stories have a
family theme, or coming home stories and finding their roots.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or
paperback?
I simple LOVE
paperback books and I like to read it in this format, although I will sometimes
read books on my iPad.
Your favorite food is?
Thai, Korean, Chinese,
Indian and Mexican
Your favorite color is?
Forest green
Your favorite Author is?
Gaelen Foley
And where can I find your book?
http://www.amazon.com/Enemys-Kiss-Kri...
How can readers connect with you?
www.kristijun.com
www.facebook.com/kristijun
www.twitter.com/kristijunauthor
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About the Author:
Kristi Jun resides in Southern California with an infinitely patient husband and a beautiful quirky son. If she isn't conjuring up another Happily Ever After, she can be found searching the web for all things English, watching reruns of Star Trek (new and old), Dr. Who, and Downton Abbey. She LOVES to hear from her readers!
www.KristiJun.com
www.twitter.com/kristijunauthor
www.facebook.com/kristijun
www.pinterestcom/kristijunauthor
