Karen Swart's Blog, page 26
March 26, 2015
Cover Reveal: Six Years by Stephanie Witter
Title: Six Years
Author: Stephanie Witter
Category/Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance
Standalone novel
Cover Designer: Jo Raven
Release Date: June 9th
Add SIX YEARS to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24932168-six-years
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?
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 *
Would you like to receive an email to let you know when SIX YEARS is available? If you do, fill out this form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1yyTW2thg6BKkkZf-V8EUx_bhInddU3sibkwXCR0haV8/viewform
Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Across the Bridge of Ice by @_ruthfox_
Across the Bridge of Ice
The Bridges Trilogy
Book Two
Ruth Fox
Genre: Fantasy, YA
Publisher: Hague Publishing
Date of Publication: 31 January 2015
ISBN: 9780987265296
ASIN: B00Q20I4YQ
Number of pages: 175 pages
Word Count: 55,000
Cover Artist: Ruth Fox
Book Description:
In 'The City of Silver Light', Keira Leichman spent the night lost in a wild snowstorm that struck Cassidy Heights. But what really happened that night? Not even Keira can be sure. What she does know is that she's been having strange dreams since the accident, and now she's stuck with a broken ankle and the possibility of never playing soccer again. That is, until she finds Jake's telescope, and is drawn across the Bridge of Ice to Shar.
Now Keira is marooned in the City of Silver Light with Daniel, Jake’s younger brother, with no way to get home. But that is the least of their worries, for the secrets they discover in Shar are more dangerous than Kiera could ever have imagined. And the fate of both their worlds are in their hands.
Nook Google Play HaguePublishing
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
As the child of two artist parents, I would always be asked ‘Are you going to be an artist when you grow up?’ I loved to shake my head. ‘I’m thinking of joining the air force,’ I would reply. ‘I want to fly fighter planes.’
The truth was, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to be. I was always drawing and painting, but I didn’t want to be an artist just because my parents were! I wanted to be recognised on my own terms! To that end, I pursued every other possibility – becoming a vet (this didn’t work because while I love cats, I have a mortal fear of dogs); joining the army (this wouldn’t work, since I can’t swim!); and finally, graphics. I was going to be a Graphic Designer, I decided – they earn a fair bit of money.
However, I when failed to get into this course at university, I reconsidered the writing that had previously been only a fun, enjoyable passtime. For the first time I seriously considered that I could do it, and I’m glad I did.
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
When I signed the contract for my first book, ‘The City of Silver Light’. This was the defining moment for me, and I will remember it forever!
How long did it take to get your first book published?
A long time. So many times I considered giving up, throwing out my laptop and never writing another word! ‘The City of Silver Light’ was the only book I’d actually completed at that stage – all the others were maybe half-finished at best – and though I loved it, it was just sitting there, gathering dust… Still, it was worth the wait. For me, it was all about finding the right publisher, and I’ve done just that!
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
I do have another job. Though I hope to earn a living from writing one day, I also work as a freelancer. The jobs I do vary from client to client, but I mainly work with art and illustrations, colourising, formatting and preparing them for use on websites.
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
My publisher is Hague Publishing. They have a wonderful range of speculative fiction books, written by very talented authors! You can check them out at http://www.haguepublishing.com/
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
It can vary greatly. I’ve written a book in two months from the initial idea to the finish – but that was working night and day, stopping only for meals and a few hours of sleep. Other books have a much longer gestation – I think the longest has been 6 years!
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
You can definitely expect to see more fantasy from me. It’s my favourite genre! I have also written and illustrated a picture book for children, and I’m working on a series for middle-grade readers.
I’m also working with my husband on a comic book series called ‘Outbreak’. You can read it for free here: http://www.sinars-studios.com/outbreak.php
You can stay up-to-date with my upcoming projects and news via my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/RuthFoxAuthorandArtist
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
I can write anywhere, as long as it’s quiet, but I prefer to be at home at my desk with my computer. I have everything set up perfectly, from the height of the chair (I’m very short!) to the angle of the keyboard, to having Chrome open in the background for when I need to take a quick break and check Facebook!
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
Definitely. I love to know what people think, whether they like the story or the characters, and whether anything can be improved.
How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?
That’s an interesting question! The character names and place names often just seem to come as I’m writing. Usually they fit the story perfectly, and it’s only rarely that I need to change them.
What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once?
Oh, it’s so hard to answer this one! I love so many books, for so many different reasons! If I had to pick one, it would probably be ‘Ship of Magic’ by Robin Hobb. I loved this book, and the ‘Liveship Trader’ series, so intensely! I’ve read the whole series five times.
Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?
I’ve never watched a movie that I thought was better than the book. Although I’ve got to say, I think they’ve done a great job with ‘The Hunger Games’ movies. ‘The Lord of the Rings’ is probably the best adaptation I’ve seen of a book so far – though it was sorely lacking in the characters of Tom Bombadil and Lady Goldberry!
Your favorite food is?
Cheesecake. If there is one food left in the world after the apocalypse, I hope it’s cheesecake.
Your favorite singer/group is?
I like a variety of music, from punk rock to alternative. My all-time favourite group is a band called Brand New.
Your favorite color is?
Green! When I was younger, everything green belonged to me. It was ‘my colour’. Seriously. I was obsessive. I think I actually belted my brother up once because he claimed a book with a green cover as his.
Ruth completed a Bachelor of Arts/Diploma of Arts in Professional Writing and Editing in 2006. Her other published works include “Monster-boy: The Lair of the Grelgoroth”, Book 1 of the Monster-boy Series, and “Sand Dog”, an illustrated picture book for younger readers. Both are available from Amazon.com.
Ruth has been an avid reader her entire life and, inspired by the books that engrossed her as she was growing up, she aims to create stories that can draw readers in and enthral them for days or weeks. She writes every day and lives in Ballarat, Victoria, with her partner, her cat, and an ever-expanding library of books.
Twitter: @_ruthfox_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RuthFoxAuthorandArtist
Website: http://thewordsandpictures.com/
Blog Tour & Giveaway–Meet Deal Sharing Aunt @DEALSHARINGAUNT #payitforward #giveaway
FEATURING
LINKS Facebook ~ https://www.facebook.com/pages/Deal-Sharing-Aunt/124318396397 Twitter ~ https://twitter.com/DEALSHARINGAUNT
Blog ~ http://dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/
Personal Facebook ~ https://www.facebook.com/vicky.brinius
Bloglovin ~ http://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/deal-sharing-aunt-5069319
Pinterest ~ https://www.pinterest.com/vicjbr/
Youtube ~ http://www.youtube.com/user/dealsharingaunt
Goodreads ~ https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/12962285-victoria-brinius
Amazon Profile ~ http://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A1CS4NUJY84P55
BIO
I am a deal lover, shopper, reader and wife. I grew up with my mom reading any book she could get her hands on, and my oldest sister loved to read Harlequin books. I was surrounded by books. There was also a lot of music in my house growing up, which to me are oral books. I started to read Stephen King when I was 8 (The Dead Zone), and since then I have devoured all genres of books. I am a contributor for The Illustrated Stephen King Trivia Book, under my maiden name. I was a vegetarian for 15 years, and only started to eat meat because of vitamin b12. I met Rachel Ray, Jamie Walters and Todd Newton. I also got proposed to by Scooby Doo, and the best man at my wedding mentioned that in his toast. I am a huge gamer, and am competitive, except with my nieces and nephew.
I was the Secretary of my political town committee, and I ran for Board of Education, more than once. I was one of the youngest to ever be Chair on the Commission on Services for Persons with Disabilities. I myself am disabled. I love all genres of books and music. I love to go on day trips, and be with my family.
GIVEAWAY
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Book Blast & Giveaway: Lies Come by @EmeraldOBrien_
BOOK INFORMATION TITLE – Lies Come True SERIES – The Avery Hart Trilogy, Book One AUTHOR – Emerald O'Brien GENRE – New Adult Mystery PUBLICATION DATE – April 17th 2015 LENGTH (Pages/# Words) - unformatted right now, but 65k words PUBLISHER – Emerald O'Brien COVER ARTIST – Najla Qamber Designs BOOK SYNOPSISAvery Hart narrowly escapes death after being attacked in the woods of Crown River.
Ten years later...
The body of a young woman is found along the path of a park in the same town. The killer is cunning and ruthless, but even the best killers make mistakes. Fiona Wolfe, the second woman to be attacked, survives and reveals a potential link between the current killer and the attack on Avery Hart. Noah Cotter, an ambitious new inspector, becomes drawn to the case when his curiosity combines with his attraction to Avery. The dangerous search for truth appears to be muddied with each shocking secret brought to light, as Avery, Fiona, and Noah realize that when someone is deceived for too long, sometimes...
Lies Come True
EXCERPT She turned back up the trail, and pushed herself to go forward. The next few strides hurt less than the first. She picked up her pace, and squinted into the last of the sunlight, as her heart pounded in her chest.
She took deep breaths as she pushed herself harder, confident that she was gaining ground, and when she reached a clearing by the lake, she looked back.
It was a man, or what looked like one, but his face was white. And red.AUTHORS PLAYLISTMusic I listened to before I wrote Lies Come True (The Avery Hart Trilogy, Book One) and while I'm writing The Avery Hart Trilogy, Book Two: Go- Meg Myers Scared- The Tragically Hip Got You Where I Want You (re-recorded)- The Flys If I Didn't Know Better- Nashville Soundtrack Breath of Life- Florence and the Machine Shouldn't Have To- The Mark Inside Bent- Matchbox 20 Make a Shadow- Meg Myers Lie- Ryan Levine Shadows- Lindsey Stirling and the whole soundtrack to Gone Girl AUTHOR BIO Emerald O'Brien is a Canadian writer who grew up just East of Toronto, Ontario. She graduated from the program of Television Broadcasting and Communications Media at Mohawk College in Hamilton, Ontario. Emerald is the author of new adult mysteries Darkness Follows and it's sequel, Shadows Remain. Her upcoming release, Lies Come True (The Avery Hart Trilogy, Book One), is also a new adult mystery. When she isn't reading or writing, Emerald can be found with her family and friends. Emerald loves to cook and entertain, and spends many nights watching movies with her husband and their two beagle pups. AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – WEBSITE / BLOG – FACEBOOK – TWITTER – GOOGLE+ – PINTEREST – GOODREADS GIVEAWAY PRIZES 3 Darkness Follows ebooks 2 Lies Come True ebooks 1 $5.00 Amazon Gift Card a Rafflecopter giveaway
Cover Reveal Organized & Hosted By:
March 25, 2015
Cover Reveal & Giveaway - Lies Come True by @EmeraldOBrien_
BOOK INFORMATION TITLE – Lies Come True SERIES – The Avery Hart Trilogy, Book One AUTHOR – Emerald O'Brien GENRE – New Adult Mystery PUBLICATION DATE – April 17th 2015 LENGTH (Pages/# Words) - unformatted right now, but 65k words PUBLISHER – Emerald O'Brien COVER ARTIST – Najla Qamber Designs BOOK SYNOPSISAvery Hart narrowly escapes death after being attacked in the woods of Crown River.
Ten years later...
The body of a young woman is found along the path of a park in the same town. The killer is cunning and ruthless, but even the best killers make mistakes. Fiona Wolfe, the second woman to be attacked, survives and reveals a potential link between the current killer and the attack on Avery Hart. Noah Cotter, an ambitious new inspector, becomes drawn to the case when his curiosity combines with his attraction to Avery. The dangerous search for truth appears to be muddied with each shocking secret brought to light, as Avery, Fiona, and Noah realize that when someone is deceived for too long, sometimes...
Lies Come True
EXCERPT She turned back up the trail, and pushed herself to go forward. The next few strides hurt less than the first. She picked up her pace, and squinted into the last of the sunlight, as her heart pounded in her chest.
She took deep breaths as she pushed herself harder, confident that she was gaining ground, and when she reached a clearing by the lake, she looked back.
It was a man, or what looked like one, but his face was white. And red.AUTHORS PLAYLISTMusic I listened to before I wrote Lies Come True (The Avery Hart Trilogy, Book One) and while I'm writing The Avery Hart Trilogy, Book Two: Go- Meg Myers Scared- The Tragically Hip Got You Where I Want You (re-recorded)- The Flys If I Didn't Know Better- Nashville Soundtrack Breath of Life- Florence and the Machine Shouldn't Have To- The Mark Inside Bent- Matchbox 20 Make a Shadow- Meg Myers Lie- Ryan Levine Shadows- Lindsey Stirling and the whole soundtrack to Gone Girl AUTHOR BIO Emerald O'Brien is a Canadian writer who grew up just East of Toronto, Ontario. She graduated from the program of Television Broadcasting and Communications Media at Mohawk College in Hamilton, Ontario. Emerald is the author of new adult mysteries Darkness Follows and it's sequel, Shadows Remain. Her upcoming release, Lies Come True (The Avery Hart Trilogy, Book One), is also a new adult mystery. When she isn't reading or writing, Emerald can be found with her family and friends. Emerald loves to cook and entertain, and spends many nights watching movies with her husband and their two beagle pups. AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – WEBSITE / BLOG – FACEBOOK – TWITTER – GOOGLE+ – PINTEREST – GOODREADS GIVEAWAY PRIZES 3 Darkness Follows ebooks 2 Lies Come True ebooks 1 $5.00 Amazon Gift Card a Rafflecopter giveaway
Cover Reveal Organized & Hosted By:
Series blast, Giveaway & Interview: The Stewart Realty Series by @beerwencha2
![Stewart Reality Series Banner 851 x 315_thumb[1]](http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GdeUHFHy8D4/VREDSr0F_II/AAAAAAAAPKk/2EO5FND_HJ8/s1600-h/Stewart-Reality-Series-Banner-851-x-%25255B2%25255D.png)
![clip_image002_thumb[1]](http://lh3.ggpht.com/-27Gqgp6Adiw/VRED7JWZQPI/AAAAAAAAPLE/pW7KSuspgPE/s1600-h/clip_image002_thumb12.jpg)
Floor Time
The Stewart Realty Series
Book 1
Liz Crowe
Genre: Romance / Family Saga
Publisher: Tri Destiny Publishing
Book Description:
Jack Gordon is Ann Arbor's most delectable bachelor. At age thirty-five, he's made millions as a top-selling Ann Arbor real estate broker and has the right connections to close a deal by any means necessary. With his rugged good looks and compelling personality, he has a virtual black book most men would kill for and he uses it often, never settling for one woman for very long.
While his D/s past remains buried, exactly where he wants it, an undercurrent of boredom and dissatisfaction runs through his life now. A disastrous experience years earlier made him swear off the whole scene, but the more Jack suppresses his natural Dom, the more his frustration grows.
Sara Thornton, a rookie in the real estate game, has fast-tracked herself to the top of the Ann Arbor market. Her life reflects a disciplined and focused routine, exactly the way she wants it. However, as her career takes off, the fulfillment she seeks remains inexplicably out of reach. The one thing she knows for sure, she will not join the Jack Gordon groupies in her company, no matter how tempting that might seem.
A chance encounter and a difficult transaction throw Jack and Sara together and the sparks fly high and hot and often. Forced to confront the compulsions that gain momentum with each sizzling hookup, their relationship seems to spiral out of control until Jack finally admits what he needs, and shows Sara what she's been missing.
Available for Free at Amazon BN iTunes Smashwords Kobo
Two o’clock became two forty-five with no guests. No big surprise. She made it through half of her water and a few chapters of the latest hot vampire novel she’d brought with her to pass the time. Bored, she got up to walk around when she saw a car pull into the long gravel drive.
She watched as Jack unfolded his tall frame out of the Corvette and walked around to reach into the passenger’s seat. It struck her that she had never seen him in anything but a suit, or at least dress pants, shirt, and tie, as she admired his ass in the dark jeans. He looked good enough to eat. But panic replaced her blooming desire.
What was he doing at her open house? Was there a problem with their deal?
She glimpsed a shopping bag from the local organic chain grocery in one hand. He grinned at her, lighting up his arresting eyes. Her breath caught in her throat.
Shit.
She had made a vow to herself she would not get caught up in the Jack Gordon whirlwind. However, here she was, high and mighty, and yet about to explode with need for his lips on hers.
Double shit.
“I thought you might be lonely all the way out here and we should have a picnic. What do you say?” He made his way to the front door. He wore a plain burgundy t-shirt, jeans that hugged his front as nicely as his rear, and driving shoes. Momentarily blinded by lust, she fought the impulse to pull him into the foyer and make him fuck her until she was spent.
Nice, very nice. The guy brings you a picnic and you want to skip right to the after-play?
Turning on her heel she headed back into the house without even responding to his suggestion, assuming he would follow her. Sara realized she had to get control of herself before talking or her voice would surely betray her. She glanced at her watch. Three p.m. – she had to focus on her job for one more hour. Let him wait.
“Don’t you have an open house of your own?” She sounded a tad more irritable than she intended.
“Nope.” He walked right into her personal space, brushed her hair out of her face and kissed her. His firm lips remained noncommittal. She shivered as he kept his hand on her neck under her hair. He caressed her almost absentmindedly as he looked around at the house.
“Well, the view is great,” he admitted as he strode into the front bedroom suite. Sara watched as he walked out of that room and took in at the high cathedral ceilings made of light ash wood. Then he whistled, picked up his grocery bag, and walked into the kitchen complete with new gleaming stainless steel appliances and white tile floor.
“Nice, but it’s sort of cold in here, isn’t it? Maybe some color, flowers or something, would help?”
“Fuck off, Jack. I don’t need your help. Why are you here, anyway?”
“Easy, tiger, easy.” He leaned on the countertop. “I know you know what to do. I can’t help it. It’s second nature for me to say something about the house first.” Sara caught herself clenching and unclenching her fists, and stopped.
Damn the man, anyway.
She couldn’t even stay mad at him. She slumped against the doorframe.
“It’s a shit listing. I don’t get any showings and hardly any new buyers from these open houses. The sellers couldn’t care less that it sits here and gets stale.” She sighed, then relaxed, only to have her desire for him rush over her like a tidal wave. He attended to his grocery bag and began setting stuff on the counter.
“What the hell am I going to do when a guest shows up, Jack? Put that crap away.”
“It’s okay, babe, we’ll just say we rolled out the red carpet for your potential buyers with these nice strawberries and this cream.” He pulled the last container from the bag with a flourish.
“You are insane, you know that?” She stared at the array of stuff on the counter.
“You won’t think that when I show you this amazing bottle of wine I found. I forgot I had it.” He pulled out a green bottle with a French label of some sort, two wine glasses, and a corkscrew.
“Um, yeah, well, I’m not really comfortable doing this here. I mean, it’s not my kitchen.” Sara gulped as she took another step away from him to get his smell out of her nose.
“Sure it is.” He worked the cork out, allowing her to admire the amazing definition of his arms. “I’ll bet you’ve spent more time in this fucked-up house with its million-dollar view than you have in your own house since you listed it. I mean, you do opens, you refill sales brochures, you check on the lawn – what else? Tell me I’m wrong.” He pulled the cork free, splashed some golden liquid into each glass, and handed one to her. By the time he’d completed the task, Sara had made her way nearly six feet away from him.
“Baby, I don’t bite,” he said, holding out the glass to her.
She surged forward, as if to prove she wasn’t afraid, grabbing the glass as she passed.
“Thanks. Never had a happy hour at an open house.”
Sweat Equity ![clip_image004_thumb[1]](http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hAneu4joevU/VREEDEnrAgI/AAAAAAAAPLk/SjVqkHvDoIQ/s1600-h/clip_image004_thumb12.jpg)
The Stewart Realty Series
Book 2
Liz Crowe
Genre: Romance / Family Saga
Publisher: Tri Destiny Publishing
Book Description:
Jack Gordon thought he’d finally made it. He had a wildly successful career, money in the bank and even returned to his life as Dom, putting an end to a string of unfulfilling sexual encounters. Now that he's made the ultimate commitment to Sara Thornton, he believes all is right in their world. However, a series of misunderstandings and a dose of self-fulfilling prophesy bring his perfectly crafted house of cards tumbling down around him, forcing him to confront lingering misgivings about marriage and trust. Could those be the only two things he can never achieve?
Sara struggles with her intense need for Jack and her desire for less volatility in her busy life, two goals which appear to be mutually exclusive. Although willing to put in the time and emotional effort to make their relationship work, she finds it futile and frustrating, littered with clashes thanks to near-identical personalities and temperaments. Given Sara’s history, easing back into the comfortable status quo becomes easier than fighting a war with the one person who should be her safe haven. But will the easier choice satisfy her the way only Jack can? Is her "war" one that comes from without or within?
Buffeted by circumstance, temptation and distraction, Jack and Sara’s tenuous relationship crumbles, sparking a continuous quest for the ever elusive: trust, love and acceptance. By the time they rebuild a foundation for renewal, fate has other plans. This leaves them both reeling, once again questioning their destiny.
Available at Amazon BN iTunes Smashwords Kobo
Jack watched his now ex-fiancée screech out onto the quiet street, sipped his bourbon and relished its slow lubrication of the horror at what had just happened. He sank back into the chair and glared at the fucked up still life of the condom and ring together on the table.
“Happiness Thwarted” he could call it, or even better, “In Which Jack Is a Dumb Ass.” The purple foil packets stacked next to the nearly twenty-thousand-dollar hunk of metal and compressed coal he’d put so much faith in just a few months ago.
“Goddamnit.” He swept the whole mess onto the floor. His usual method of instant spin control had abandoned him. He had nothing, remained a hollow shell, scraped clean, raw and pulsing like a six-foot five-inch exposed nerve ending.
The fucking condoms.
He’d left them there from over a year ago. From when he’d taken that crazy-ass blonde bitch of a client away for a weekend. The weekend she tried to convince him to marry her. But he’d already met Sara by then. So, he had fucked the woman six ways to Sunday then dropped her at her house, his mind and heart elsewhere.
Oh, the bitter irony of the situation did not escape him. Vegas had been fun, sure. He’d flirted like crazy and let some ladies buy him drinks but he went to bed alone every single night without a single qualm or regret. He hadn’t talked to Sara that week, but he’d been busy, serving on countless panels and attending dozens of stupid glad-handing receptions. When he wasn’t doing that he’d played Texas Hold ’em and lost his ass with gleeful abandon. He’d had his mind firmly fixed on the future. With Sara. He’d even entertained a pretty out-there fantasy of her beautiful body, swollen and full with their child.
“Oh fuck.” His face and eyes burned. His throat closed up. The room spun. He had to get her back.
How? Was he even worthy?
No, he wasn’t. But he didn’t care.
Jack got up, retrieved the expensive ring from the floor and set it on the front hall table with his other stuff. His heartbeat pounded at the sight of it. Anger followed close on the heels of despair. The house echoed with silence. He knew what he needed. Picking up his smart phone he quick dialed his friend, Suzanne.
“Hey, Jack, what’s up?”
“I need to talk.”
“Where are you?” The noise of her beer bar receded, so he assumed she must have walked into the brewery.
“Home. But I’m coming over. You gonna be there?”
“Well, I wasn’t, but I’ll stick around.” Silence spun out between them before she spoke again. “You did it, didn’t you?”
Jack dragged a hand through his hair. He knew exactly what she meant. “Yeah. I did.”
“Oh hell.” The ensuing silence deafened him. He trusted Suzanne more than he trusted just about anyone, except her business partner, who was currently on the West Coast at some beer conference. “C’mon over, you fucking idiot. I’ll buy you a beer.” Jack slumped against the wall, relieved to have somewhere to go, sick to his stomach and emptier than he’d ever felt in his entire life.
![clip_image006_thumb[1]](http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2Ouhlc2O-a4/VREEKEsipXI/AAAAAAAAPME/HDMN41IT6AE/s1600-h/clip_image006_thumb12.jpg)
Closing Costs
The Stewart Realty Series
Book 3
Liz Crowe
Genre: Romance / Family Saga
Publisher: Tri Destiny Publishing
Book Description:
Love conquers all? Not likely, according to Sara Thornton. She's spent eight years coming to terms with the new parameters of her life while resigning herself to the idea that “happily ever afters” are best left to fairytales. Sales manager for her successful real estate office and juggling an added element of responsibility she never thought she'd face, Sara continues to struggle with the men in her life. Love, for her, has only meant hurt, broken trust and anger; all of which she’s completely banished from her life, so she claims.
Jack Gordon has come a long way since his early days of obsession with Sara. As the general manager of Stewart Realty, his own level of responsibility for the well-being of others has ramped up. He’s even honed his caretaking skills, now that he has someone who loves him unconditionally.
Continuing to invest effort and rebuild their relationship, he and Sara grow close as friends. Despite this, his ultimate question remains unanswered; the one he keeps asking, no matter how many times she says no. Sara isn't prepared for the keen focus of his need--to have her back, once and for all. Her stubborn resistance nearly rips both lives apart
The epic conclusion to The Realtors series, Closing Costs brings Jack and Sara truly full circle. Proving that the heat of lust and obsession; the need for control and to be mastered in many areas of life can lead to love —surprising you when you least expect it – if you will only allow it.
Available at Amazon BN iTunes Smashwords Kobo
Once Jack and Sara had eased back into a wary friendship, the entire Stewart Real Estate Company rejoiced because it meant fewer fraught upper management meetings. Jack Gordon was a hard-ass leader, tough, firm, driven and with high expectations of everyone around him. He had turned the brokerage around. But for almost a year he’d been impossible to work with – antsy, quick tempered, never seeming to leave the office even to sleep or eat except on Tuesdays and Thursdays – the days he had Kate at his house.
Their conversations lasted long into the night nearly three or four times a week and between sorting through work issues and discussing theories of raising a successful future woman, they’d drifted into more personal details.
“So…” she’d asked at one point, needing to know but dreading the answer at the same time. “Have you, um, moved on, like I told you to?”
“Since when do I do what you tell me?”
She’d shivered at the sound of his voice. It had compelled her in so many ways, for good and bad. She needed to hear it, like she needed to drink water.
“Never mind.”
“And you? Find a new boyfriend yet?”
“Yeah, in all my spare time, I’m out clubbing, picking up guys.”
“Well, there is the internet.”
“That’s sick. You gonna answer me?”
He sighed. “I’ve been down at the club again. Playing.” Sara shut her eyes.
“Why didn’t you ever take me there? I would’ve…”
He cut her off. “You weren’t ready and every time I thought you were, you’d scream at me to get the hell out of your life, if memory serves.”
“Yeah, I guess so. We sure are good at bad timing, aren’t we?”
“Uh huh. You, my dear, are the queen of overreaction. But I still love you.”
Her scalp had tingled and she snuggled down in the covers. “Don’t know why. I’m a real bitch, I hear.”
He chuckled and her thighs tightened at the sound. “You horny, baby? That what this is about?”
She’d bitten her lip. “You psychic?”
“Only as relates to you.”
“Good night Jack. See you tomorrow.”
“Wait – let’s have phone sex. It’ll be fun.”
It had been her turn to chuckle. “You are so…”
“Blue-balled? Seriously Sara. I may be messing around downtown but I don’t…I can’t…oh hell why am I telling you anyway. You’ll just gloat.”
“No, I won’t. Tell me.”
“Another time. When you’re on your knees, begging me.”
“Dream on.”
“No, you will be.”
She’d shuddered, her whole body on fire now with need for his hands, his lips, his voice. “Stop it.”
“I’m not doing anything.”
She’d sighed, realizing the hopelessness of her whole relationship with him.
How long did it take to get your first book published?
I started working on the novel that is now 3 novels (Floor Time, Sweat Equity, Closing Costs) in 2008. I got a novella published (unrelated to these books) in 2010, then after about 3 years of rejection/revision/rejection/revision The Stewart Realty original trilogy found a publishing home.
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
I am a Realtor (hence my “real estate theme” of these books) but took some time away from that to help get a craft brewery open in the past few years. I’m getting back to that this year.
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
Floor Time is a sexy, realistic look at a couple of high-powered realtors who fall in lust firs, love (much) later.
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
Tri-Destiny Publishing is the publisher of this series, plus one other shorter series and 2 stand alone novels. I have books with Decadent Publishing and Ellora’s Cave and am also self published (newest series: The Love Brothers)
What genre would you place your books into?
I call it “Romance. Worth the Risk” because it is NOT formula either in plot or characters and many of my books have flat out pissed off romance readers seeking that. But at their core they are about relationships.
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?
I love Jack Gordon—the main male character—because he is for all intents and purposes the “Liz Male Alter Ego.”
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
You know, I don’t, not even ones I know could be good. I have found over the course of my short publishing career so far that it distracts me—the “big head” crossed with the “big ego crush” that are inevitable when reading your own reviews send my muse into a corner and I need him out here, with me.
How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?
I use real locations (Ann Arbor, Traverse City, Istanbul,) all places I have either lived or been to a lot. The one exception is my self published series which is set in a fictional town about halfway between Lexington and Louisville Kentucky.
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
I am a notorious “pantser” so many times my characters evolve somewhat but I go into a new project knowing as much as I can about them.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
I read in all formats. I don’t really prefer one over the other.
What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once?
Probably that would be Cat’s Eye by Margaret Atwood and I have worn a groove in my hardback copy I’ve read it so many times!
Your favorite food is?
Wine (hey, it’s a fruit originally)
Your favorite singer/group is?
I have a bunch but probably “of all time” would be The Foo Fighters
Your favorite color is?
Yellow
Your favorite Author is?
I read in almost every genre, including mainstream literary fiction so I have several but I would read anything Margaret Atwood writes up to and including her grocery list.
Amazon best-selling author, mom of three, Realtor, beer blogger, brewery marketing expert, and soccer fan, Liz Crowe is a Kentucky native and graduate of the University of Louisville currently living in Ann Arbor. She has decades of experience in sales and fund raising, plus an eight-year stint as a three-continent, ex-pat trailing spouse.
Her early forays into the publishing world led to a groundbreaking fiction subgenre, “Romance for Real Life,” which has gained thousands of fans and followers interested less in the “HEA” and more in the “WHA” (“What Happens After?”). More recently she is garnering even more fans across genres with her latest novels, which are more character-driven fiction, while remaining very much “real life.”
With stories set in the not-so-common worlds of breweries, on the soccer pitch, in successful real estate offices and at times in exotic locales like Istanbul, Turkey, her books are unique and told with a fresh voice. The Liz Crowe backlist has something for any reader seeking complex storylines with humor and complete casts of characters that will delight, frustrate and linger in the imagination long after the book is finished.
Don’t ever ask her for anything “like a Budweiser” or risk bodily injury.
Website Beer, Books & More Blog Facebook Fan Page
Facebook Fan Group Twitter Feed
Beer Blog Sign Up for Liz Newz
PRAISE FOR THE ORIGINAL STEWART REALTY TRILOGY
“The sizzling power of attraction and the sexiness of a take charge Alpha male attitude is incredibly written by this talented author.”-- Romancing The Book
“The chemistry felt between the characters is nothing short of electrifying. I was struck by a range of emotions while reading this novel, I love a read that can toy with my emotions but not leave me feeling emotionally devastated!”-- Flirty and Dirty Book Blog
“This series, especially Sweat Equity, is emotional, hot and realistic. There are lots of break-ups and A LOT of make-ups. I urge readers to pick this book up, but only after reading the first book, Floor Times, in this amazing series. The cliffhanger in this book will make you want to throw your Kindle or paperback. But you will immediately rush to get the third book in this series.”-- Cocktails and Books
“Once again, kudos to Liz Crowe's writing on CLOSING COSTS for the happily ever after that was long coming for Jack and Sara. I found myself frustrated, anger and also teary-eyed because I just wanted to see them together and start living their life as a happy family. I truly loved this book even with all the complications of the lives of the characters but that is the beauty of it: It is so realistic that you can see it happening, unfolding right in front of your eyes.”-- The Romance Reviews
“Crowe's writing is so realistic and enjoyable, I found myself alternating between extreme frustration, tears and happiness. I literally could not put the book down and read it all in one sitting. This is a book I will read more than once.”— *Most Helpful Amazon Rated Review by Amazon User My Book Addiction and More
“I positively enjoyed this book, especially the characters, which were appealing and well-developed–and the writing which impressed me from the first page.”-- Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
“What Worked
Just. About. Everything. That’s not to say life was beautiful all the time, but there wasn’t a single moment where I was upset with this read.”-- All Romance Reviews
“Be prepared to read non-stop as the adventure continues and leaves your jaw dropping for more. I 100% recommend this book that has left me anxiously waiting for the next installment. The characters are so amazing and well developed and the situations they experience evoke so much emotion. I could not stop reading this book because it was that addicting!!!”-- *Most Helpful Amazon Rated Review by Amazon User A_Carve
Read the rest of the series Available on Amazon -including an anthology that has Floor Time/Sweat Equity/Closing Costs all in one PLUS “House Rules” the Jack Gordon prequel.
ESSENCE OF TIME (Stand alone novel or book 4)
CONDITIONAL OFFER (book 5)
ESCALATION CLAUSE (book 6)
MUTUAL RELEASE (Stand alone novel or book 7)
GOOD FAITH (Stand alone “final” novel or book 8)
HOUSE RULES (The Jack Gordon Prequel)
***BONUS NEW COVER LOVE!***
![clip_image008_thumb[1]](http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ONRdDdtB2MQ/VREEd7UHLWI/AAAAAAAAPNU/hE_MxWolV4E/s1600-h/clip_image008_thumb12.jpg)
Conditional Offer
The Craig & Suzanne Story
It is highly recommended that you read book 4 (Essence of Time) before this one.
Book Description:
Craig Robinson and Suzanne Baxter had no reason to meet, no real excuse to be friends. But when heart calls to heart...blood to blood...should two people who seem destined to be together heed the spin of Fate's wheel?
Craig spent years floating through life on cruise control, using directionless jobs, his rock band, swimming, and a string of older women in his bed to smother feelings of loneliness and loss. He finally thought he had found his true love in one Sara Thornton -- A sexy, beautiful, fellow real estate agent and mentor. But his self-doubt and innate sense of failure is only reinforced when he realizes her heart belongs to another man.
When Sara introduces him to Suzanne, a woman fighting her own demons from an abusive marriage and subsequent feelings of inadequacy and deep unhappiness, that simple, chance moment snaps Craig's hazy existence into crystal-clear focus. A bond of instant physical attraction, nurtured by time and shared experience, and plenty of erotic energy, is born.
As Suzanne's past continues to haunt her, making her push Craig away just as he thinks he’s getting closer, each of them must come to terms with their true selves and face their ultimate realities.
"Hey," Suzanne said, looking up from her laptop. "What's up?"
Craig gulped, stuck his hands in his suit trouser pockets. His voice seized up, his throat felt as dry as a bone. He took a look at her, her small frame encased in jeans and a brewery tee shirt, tendrils of dark red hair curled around her neck. He was more consumed with nervousness. She looked up at him again, her gaze neutral and expectant, polite.
"I, uh, thought I'd take you up on the brewery tour offer. You know if you're not busy."
He suppressed an inward groan at how incredibly lame that sounded.
"Never mind." He sank into a bar stool across from where she stood behind the bar.
She shut the computer, leaned on her elbows and smiled at him. His heart skipped a beat. Typically, a hot woman would intrigue him, make him want to flirt, impress and ultimately seduce. Suzanne brought out a completely new feeling in him – one he didn't understand and that scared him practically shitless. But he’d come here again, unable to stop himself.
"Here." She handed him a beer and walked away. He was mesmerized by the sway of her hips but tried to force his usual A-game down under a layer of chivalry. One thing he'd never been around women was tongue-tied. Yet, there he was, smiling, and slamming down half the beer she slid across the bar at him while she talked with the bar manager and put all her stuff away.
She glanced at him once, a puzzled look in her eyes. He shrugged, smiled and forced his eyes up to the television and away from her.
After about fifteen minutes of messing around behind the bar, chatting with other customers and other diversions, she was back in front of him, leaning in, way too close for his comfort. He sat back, sipped and tried to ignore her.
"And so," she said, sipping her own beer. "A tour, huh?"
"Yeah, well, you mentioned it last time and I thought…." He heard his voice trail off, and started to stand and leave—anything to escape the horror of his lame-ass behavior. But he couldn't. Not when she leveled that intense gaze at him. He had to clench his fists to stop himself from touching her hair, from pressing his lips to that sweet spot just near her ear. He blinked.
"Um sorry? What did you say?"
She leaned her head back and laughed, making him tingle all over.
"I said, you adorable thing you, if you want a tour, then follow me."
She lifted the service arm and came out from behind the bar. He sat back, unsure what to do now, but wanting more than anything to follow her wherever she went. Something about her was so compelling, so tempting and so right. He smiled, and grabbed his glass.
She stepped into the brewery, holding up the superficial chain barrier between it and the Tap Room. He ducked under and listened as she launched into what was obviously a well-practiced spiel. He sipped, looked around, and pointed to a glass jar of small candies.
"Hey, are those M&Ms?" He walked over to a tall, makeshift worktable.
She followed him putting her hand over his when he started to take the lid off the giant container.
"No, Reese's Pieces." He looked at her, loving the feel of her palm on his hand. "They're mine. I'm an addict." She shrugged and stepped away.
"So give me the real story here Suzanne. I mean, you guys are successful, rolling in dough, expanding twice inside ten years. All is great?" He lifted the lid and scooped a handful of the peanut butter candies.
She sighed and held out her hand. He put one chocolate covered morsel in it. She glared at him, ate it, and seemed to relax, for the first time since he'd arrived, dropping her façade of business woman in control. He stood close to her, held out his hand and gave her a few more candies.
"It sucks sometimes, but I wouldn't do anything else. I love it."
"It sucks. And you love it," he repeated, crunching down on the chocolate peanut butter morsels. "Damn I haven't had these in years. I forgot how good they are."
"I know," she said, holding her hand. "So, Craig, why are you here, really? You obviously don't give a shit about my standard brewery tour."
He seized up a half a second, then pushed away from the table and grabbed more candy from the jar.
"How do you work here anyway? With these damn things around all the time…Jesus." He popped a few more in his mouth.
She joined him, perched on a backless stool nearly right under his arm. He started to move away from her, but then didn't. She put the lid back on the jar.
"I have to keep it stocked, that's the only rule. Because I eat the most of them, I guess. You gonna answer my question, or what?"
He draped his arm around her shoulder and they munched on candy like little kids.
"I came to see you," he said suddenly, needing her to know.
"I figured," she said, leaning her head on his shoulder. "I'm glad you did."
Coming soon:
NET WORTH (Good Faith sequel)
EXCLUSIVE AGENCY (The Sara/Blake Thornton Prequel)
March 23, 2015
Book Blast & Interview: Darkness Within by @CandisVargo
![Darkness Within Banner 851 x 315_thumb[1]](http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CpqTIC-RXmI/VQ761--JrjI/AAAAAAAAPGY/TaNeDTFKFh0/s1600-h/Darkness-Within-Banner-851-x-315_thu.png)
![clip_image002_thumb[1]](http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Kj5NY-JcDB0/VQ76_S91HTI/AAAAAAAAPG4/maKraTj4voc/s1600-h/clip_image002_thumb12.jpg)
Darkness Within
The Darkness Series
Book One
Candis Vargo
Genre: Paranormal Thriller
Publisher: Limitless Publishing
Date of Publication: March 10
ISBN:
ASIN:
Book Description:
Tragedy strikes the Roseburg family and leaves Mike struggling to help his wife, Mia. After losing their only child in an accident, Mia is far from emotionally distraught…instead, she continues on like their son is still alive.
Four months passed since the accident…
Mike begins to work with a psychiatrist to help his wife with her delusions when a darkness begins to haunt them. As this dark presence becomes violent, making itself known, Mike wonders if the illusion of their child that his wife is seeing is something far more demonic.
With the dark force looming over them, Mike is left questioning his own sanity as he tries to unravel what is real and what is not.
Soon he realizes…
Something is dreadfully wrong.
The force of the impact with the truck thrust the Jeep forward, throwing Mia deep into her seat as they went nose first into a ditch. What was left of the back of the jeep rolled up over the front. It continued to flip over several times before seeming to levitate in the air after rolling off the embankment. It felt like an eternity, the world moving in slow motion, before it smashed against the icy cold river sending shards of glass and ice throughout the vehicle. As it slowly began to sink Mia automatically reached down to unbuckle herself. After struggling to free herself from the seat belt she reached back for her son.
Her long, dark hair floated through the thickness of the icy water and streams of blood swam around her face. As she turned around everything became hazy and the darkness fought to take away her control. A panic began to set in as her heart raced. She needed to get back to Eli, to unbuckle him…she needed to save her son.
Being a mother she couldn’t care less if she was hurt, she just needed to save her son. Like a tiger protecting her young, it was a mother’s first priority.
As she tried to move into the back seat she reached out to Eli again.
He gently placed his outstretched hand into hers. His eyes, so soft and gentle, stared into his mother’s, whose were full of pain and fear for him. He smiled his sweet innocent smile as if telling her that things were going to be okay.
It was the end of February, a time the weather was supposed to be warming up as it was readying for spring. Supposed to…but of course it wasn’t.
Mia had been trying to avoid what happened. Just moments ago she was talking to her husband on the phone through the Bluetooth she managed to con him into installing, stating that she was going to wait for the storm to pass.
“Hello,” Mikes groggy voice had echoed through the car.
“Hi, Daddy.” Eli’s enthusiasm rang throughout the vehicle. “Dad…Dad, I’m out of school, Dad. And it’s snowing!”
“Oh yeah, buddy,” Mike replied. “Well, I guess I will see you soon then.”
Mia had angled her rear view mirror down to look back at Eli. She placed her index finger in front of her mouth to shush him but smiled underneath it.
Eli puckered his lips out and grabbed them with one hand to keep himself from talking as he gave her a thumbs up.
“Yeah, it’s snowing like crazy.” Mia took her time as she drove. She was never a fan of the winter weather and only liked snow on Christmas Eve and
Christmas Day, any time before or after that she’d prefer it be seventy degrees and sunny. “We’re going to be late for dinner. I think I’m going to pull over when I can manage to even see anything so I don’t slide into a damn ditch.”
When Mia left to pick Eli up from preschool there were just a few flurries floating in the icy wind. Now it had come to near white out conditions, causing her to curse winter even more.
“All right, just take your time and watch out for the crazy people out there. And I came up with an awesome idea for big man’s birthday party. Turning the big five soon, eh, buddy.”
Mia looked in the mirror and saw Eli’s deep brown eyes light up. He hopped up and down in his booster seat with excitement. “Do I get a guitar,
Dad? Daddy, I want a guitar!”
“You’ll have to wait and see, buddy, but I better let you guys go so you can get home. Maybe this snow will be good enough to take you snowmobiling later.”
Mia rolled her eyes and shook her head in frustration. “See you when we get home.”
She was still upset with him over what had happened the night before. She could swear that sometimes it seemed like he’d rather be anywhere but where the man of the house should be at night…home. Gender roles were never really her thing, but to her it always seemed like the man did a better job of protecting the family from intruders.
“Stay safe,” Mike said before he hung up.
After Mike hung up Mia had slowed down even more, trying to find a place to pull over before she got anywhere near the upcoming bridge that crossed the river. She wanted to be out of the way of any oncoming traffic but with the snow falling as hard as it was, it was nearly impossible to see anything.
After a few more minutes of driving the snow let up ever so slightly, enough for her to spot a place where she could pull over. Slowing down to a near stop, she started to turn the wheel.
The distinctive sound of a big rig's horn snapped her attention to the rear view mirror, still angled for her to see Eli. She snapped her head to the right side mirror and saw a tractor trailer turned sideways, sliding towards her. Her heart raced as she pushed the gas pedal, trying to get out of the way as fast as she could. The wheels seemed to turn in pace and the air horn blared again, but was drowned out by the screeching of metal as it collided.
Everything went black.
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
You know, I never really had anything specific that I wanted to be. I’ve always enjoyed doing so many things that I couldn’t settle on just one.
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
After I finally completed my first full length novel.
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
Boy, do I. I am a full time wife and mother. I chase my children around all day, with my youngest being 2, I stay quite busy.
What is the name of your latest book?
My latest book is Darkness Within.
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
My publisher is Limitless Publishing, though I have self-published in the past.
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
That varies from book to book, it can be anywhere from 3 months to 6 months.
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
There will be more books in the same genre, though I do plan on branching out some.
What genre would you place your books into?
I’d say Horror and Psychological Thriller, though I do have one Paranormal Romance.
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
I like to lock myself in my bedroom and sit on my bed with junk food and a Dr. Pepper.
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
I do!
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?
Usually I come up with the title while writing it. I’ll have that ‘ah-ha’ moment while writing.
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..")
No, I like for my readers to take what they will from my novels.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
I love a good paperback book, but I find myself with more eBooks because they’re easier to get. My closest book store is almost an hour away, so I’ll go with eBook.
Your favorite food is?
Food. I love food.
Your favorite singer/group is?
AC/DC, hands down.
Your favorite color is?
I don’t have one. I’ve never been able to just pick one…can I choose rainbow?
![clip_image004_thumb[1]](http://lh3.ggpht.com/-M03FzjUEmms/VQ77Q1B5QFI/AAAAAAAAPH4/pGFJ5LvElYM/s1600-h/clip_image004_thumb12.jpg)
Growing up on an old dirty road in the middle of nowhere, as a child Candis used her love for books as a way to escape reality (and her brother constantly trying to kill her—literally). She blames her love of all things Horror on being born on Friday the 13th and will always find joy in scaring her friends.
You will find a little piece of her in every book she writes. She loves a good happy ending, but most of the time she prefers one she never saw coming.
When she’s not writing or reading, she can usually be found chasing her children around. She currently lives in Rome, Pennsylvania with her husband and three children. And her fat cat.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CandisVargo
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candis.vargo
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5625334.Candis_Vargo
Book Blast & Interview: Three Wishes by @debra_dunbar
![Three Wishes Banner 851 x 200_thumb[1]](http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uURnvopkweE/VQ_fHORs_mI/AAAAAAAAPIo/W_nw9M_JSEA/s1600-h/Three-Wishes-Banner-851-x-200_thumb1%25255B2%25255D.png)
![clip_image002_thumb[1]](http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xwpHku4J5zA/VQ_fSUQw_qI/AAAAAAAAPJI/dEZvw4KNjdM/s1600-h/clip_image002_thumb12.jpg)
Three Wishes
Debra Dunbar
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Anessa Books
Date of Publication: March 7, 2015
ISBN: 978-1505671193
ASIN: B00RKE5608
Number of pages: 229
Word Count: 79,000
Cover Artist: Phatpuppy Art
Book Description:
Dar helped his foster sister become the ruler of Hel, and helped her free the enslaved humans from the elves. It’s about time he helped himself – to a fun week of mayhem in the Windy City. Collapsing a few buildings and corrupting politicians is an ideal vacation for a demon in Chicago, but Dar didn’t count on a beautiful angel sabotaging his fun and putting him to work.
Asta is an angelic enforcer, scanning for demons in her assigned territory and sending them to an early grave. Unfortunately, the latest trespasser from Hel has diplomatic immunity - but immunity doesn’t mean she can’t coerce him into helping her track and dispatch the powerful demon that’s been cycling in and out of her radar for the last few days.
Demons are the sworn enemies of every angel, but Asta must learn to trust Dar or the dark presence that is growing in Chicago will spread - and this particular enemy has the skills and knowledge to send human civilization back to the dark ages.
She has one week left as an enforcer before she returns to her heavenly home – one week to catch an elusive monster, and one week to safeguard her heart from the demon who is determined to seduce her to sin.
Stupid revolving doors. What idiot thought these things were a good method of entering a building? She stood watching as the door made its circuitous route. Could she time it so she actually managed to get in between the sections? The last time, she’d been knocked backwards onto the pavement. That wouldn’t be a graceful entrance given her current dress and sky-high stilettos.
“Need help?”
She recognized his voice even before the faint energy trickled across her skin with its siren song. How did he do that? Thank Aaru all demons weren’t as stealthy as Dar, or her job would be nearly impossible. As she turned, she realized that with her heels, she towered over him. In flats, she was the same height as the demon, but the shoes she loved so much put Dar’s chin right at her bosom — a fact he’d quickly realized and had taken advantage of.
“Want me to get the door for you?” he asked her breasts.
“Did you make reservations? Otherwise we can skip the revolving door and just head over to Taco Bell.”
The demon chuckled and brushed a curl from her bare shoulder, his fingers lingering against her neck while his eyes explored the skin north of her cleavage. “Of course I made reservations. I didn’t want you to give me any excuse to not eat tonight.”
“I swore I’d play your game tonight as long as you help me catch the other demon. I’ll eat anything you put in front of me.”
Why did that cause the demon to nearly fall over laughing? Did he have something in particular he wanted her to eat, the thought of which was giving him such amusement?
Oh. Yeah, that probably wasn’t the best thing for her to say given his proclivity toward the sin of lust.
Wiping his eyes, still chuckling, Dar strode forward, stopping the revolving door to the angry protests of those trapped inside. “Then let us dine, my angel.”
Asta took a deep breath and walked past him, putting her palms on the front of the glass as she’d seen the humans do. Hopefully he wouldn’t bump her out as he had the other evening. With these shoes on, she’d probably land face-first on the plush carpet.
“Ready?”
She should have known he’d squeeze into the tiny space behind her, pressing the full length of his form against her back and rear. Asta tried to scoot forward, only to find herself sandwiched between the demon and the glass. The humans yelled at them to move, but Dar held still, his body warm and powerful.
“Maybe we should just stay here a while.” His hips shifted and Asta felt something stir to life, hard and firm against her buttocks.
She’d told him no sex, but rubbing against her in the doorway wasn’t off limits. And it was most definitely brought with it welcome sensations. “We need to move,” Asta said with regret. She tried to push the door forward, but Dar had it wedged in place. The trapped humans began to pound on the glass.
“I love pissing them off,” he whispered against her hair. “So much anger over such a minor inconvenience. The gifts of Aaru seem to have turned them into a bunch of minor demons, don’t you agree?”
It did seem a fair comparison at the moment, but Asta hadn’t squandered her century here. She’d seen sparks of divinity in the human race, and no demon was going to convince her otherwise.
She shifted to look at him over her shoulder, rubbing herself along his body in the process. Oh stars, this felt good. If only those darned humans weren’t causing such a racket. “You’re being inconsiderate.” Her voice was breathless. “They have a right to be angry. And they’re still very early in their evolution. Give them another ten-thousand years or so, and I think you’ll find they’re more angelic.”
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
When I was a child I wanted to be a dog – an honest-to-goodness, furry dog. Writing was my second choice, those early, elementary school stories were all about. . . dogs.
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
In first grade when my Shanook, the Sled Dog story won a school-wide contest. I went to a regional assembly and had my first author interview at age six. Ever since then I was a writer.
How long did it take to get your first book published?
I went into the corporate world as a profession and my writing became a bit of a side joy for me. Beyond some early fanfic, op-ed pieces in a City Paper, and flash fiction to amuse friends and family, I didn’t really write.
Something happens to people when they hit their late forties and that stream of creativity turned into a tsunami that couldn’t be denied. I wasn’t about to wait around five years to dance the traditional publishing mambo, so I self-published. That debut novel (A Demon Bound) was in July of 2012, and Three Wishes is my 10th full length novel, so I’m glad I didn’t wait!
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
Usually three months from idea and research to final revision. Add in the editing process, and I generally can release 3-4 books per year. That’s a really hectic schedule, especially since I still have my day job, so I’m not promising that there won’t be a year where I only release 2!
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
I love urban fantasy and paranormal romance, so everything from me in the foreseeable future will be of that genre. In addition to Three Wishes, I’ll be release book 7 in my Imp Series, and book 2 in my Half Breed series. I’m also working on the framework for a dystopian/zombieish series, and a paranormal thriller series.
What genre would you place your books into?
They really straddle the line between Urban Fantasy, Dark Fantasy, and Paranormal Romance. Three Wishes if more paranormal romance.
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
As a kid I loved folktales. I was also convinced that I was a changeling and that the neighbor’s flower garden was a secret doorway into the fairy world. One midsummer’s eve, the elves were going to come through the doorway and take me home.
No elves ever came, but I’ve spent my life fascinated by stories of the supernatural.
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?
Like so many of my fans, I have to say Samantha Martin (Sam) is my favorite. As an Imp, she gets to do all those things we’d love to do but can’t – and she has a wacky sense of humor, even when she’s the butt of the joke. She’s vulgar and unapologetically rude, but she’s evolved into a demon that’s known for defending the underdog.
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
I have to shake it up when I’m writing – sometimes it’s in the office, sometimes it’s at the dining room table. I’ve written at the park while the kids play, at the doctor’s office waiting for an appointment, or at a bar with a glass of wine in one hand. I swear one of these days I’m going to get a treadmill desk so I can write and walk at the same time.
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
I will sometimes read them in the first week or two after I release a book, but after that I stay away from reviews. Once the novels are out into the world, they need to stand on their own, and readers will make of them what they will. I believe reviews are for other readers, not me. I’m always striving to improve as a writer, but that feedback comes from my critique partners, workshops, etc.
I do read every e-mail and social media message sent to me, so if you loved my book and want me to know it, please let me know directly!
Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?
Asta and Dar were named day one, but I do have characters that sometimes change names after the first (very rough) draft is complete. It makes editing a bit of a “Where’s Waldo/Ivan” hunt, but having the name fit the character is important to me.
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
This follows on the naming question above! I have character traits in mind when I sit down to write my first draft, but sometimes halfway through the novel, my characters become someone else. I remember several instances where I’ve had to go back to the beginning and do a deep re-write because a character has changed.
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 editor tells me there are, but I don’t consciously put them in. Hmmm, the moral of Three Wishes is probably “Judge people for yourself instead of relying on what others say.” Or maybe “Quick and easy success comes with a deadly price.”
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
Ebooks. I can hold hundreds of books in one hand, take them all to the beach, and not have to decide which ones need to go to the used bookstore so I can actually get into my office.
Your favorite singer/group is?
I’m very eclectic when it comes to music. Rob Zombie. Journey. Drake. Andy Gibb. Pink. Godsmack. Gretchen Wilson. It’s a little disturbing when I put my iPod on shuffle.
Your favorite color is?
Right now I’m really loving red. It’s so energetic!
![clip_image004_thumb[1]](http://lh5.ggpht.com/-S_cVXA2Urfc/VQ_fjCP5qBI/AAAAAAAAPKI/QfDzdyrSuJw/s1600-h/clip_image004_thumb12.jpg)
After majoring in English with a concentration in Medieval Literature and Folklore studies, Debra promptly sold out to the corporate world, occasionally writing marketing copy and op/ed articles for a local city paper. By day, she designs compensation programs, after dark she stuffs her nose into obscure mythology, and feverishly writes her novels. A DEMON BOUND is her debut novel.
Debra lives on a farm in Maryland with Sweetie, three sons, and a Noah's ark of four legged family members. She drives an old PT Cruiser, couldn't carry a tune if you duct taped it to her back, and enjoys an occasional cosmopolitan (heavy on the vodka). On a good day, she jogs and horseback rides, hopefully managing to keep the horse between herself and the ground. Her only known super power is 'Identify Roadkill'.
https://www.facebook.com/DebraDunbarauthor
Blog Tour & Giveaway– Meet Lustful Literature Blog @LustfulLiteratu #payitforward
FEATURING
LINKS: Website: http://lustfulliterature.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lustfulliterature
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/24150778-lustful-literature
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LustfulLiteratu
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/lliterature/
BIOS:
Hi, I'm Jen, I'm a housewife with 2 children living in Ontario, Canada. Ever since Christian Gray came into my life I have been obsessed with reading. A one click whore who has way too many unread books. What really gets to me are the sexy, flirty moments between characters where I am completely consumed and caught up with what is happening to them. I crave those moments in a book that have me sighing out loud because they have touched my soul. I seriously have an addiction to reading m/m, bikers, rockers, tattooed and pierced men so if you have any recommendations I'm more than happy to take them.
Hi! I’m Kim! I live in New Jersey about 20 mins from NYC. I work full time and am a full time mommy to three beautiful children as well. I’m married to a man I went to pre-k with so if these books have taught me anything it’s that sometimes love really is a fairytale! If it weren’t for the hype over the Fifty Shades series I probably would’ve never read another book as long as I lived. But thanks to Christian Grey my love for books grew something fierce. I read anything from young adult to something completely raw and dark. I love when a book can make me laugh or cry. But I love it even more when a book can make me throw my Kindle across the room! I am 100% an angst whore! I’m so glad that I was introduced to the indie world and met the wonderful women who I started this blog with. The rest is history!
My name is Jodie Stipetich and I live in Pittsburgh, PA, with my husband, two girls, a cat and a dog that I am certain is the devil. I can’t prove this but if you know me you know I am not lying. I am a stay at home / working mom, I don’t really know how the whole working thing happened but that’s the joy of owning your own business with your husband. I have loved reading since my mom made me read Gone with the Wind in high school. That book taught me book boys are always going to be better than real ones and yes I learned the book is always better then the movie. I stopped reading “My Books” when my first daughter was born and started reading “Her Books”. That is until Fifty happened in the book world. EL James brought this whole new Indie Community into my life that I knew nothing about. She reminded me where a book can take you and she started a relationship with my kindle I wouldn’t trade for the world. In some ways she changed my life. I have met some of my best friends through the love of a good book, I have worked with some amazing authors and I have had some moments that have literally left me feeling better than any roller coaster ride. I am a hopeless romantic and I completely believe that fairy tales can come true. I also live for the messages that say Jodie because of you I didn’t sleep last night!!
Hi my name is Beth (or “Bethy”) I am 37 years old and live in Halifax, Nova Scotia on the East Coast of Canada. I am married to my high school sweetheart and 22 years later we have a handsome little 6 year old who has his Mommy wrapped quite well. I am a reformed TV-aholic now turned Kindle-aholic. I was never a really big reader, but picked up FSOG on my hubby’s suggestion almost two years ago and have not looked back since, I kissed TV long goodbye. I am a true romantic at heart so my favorite choice to read is a sweet contemporary romance but have really stepped outside the sappy romance box and have come to love so many other types. I love any hot sexy man but my preferred BBF is definitely the business / CEO type or a hot athlete, any sport will do but I love me some hot hockey players. I like my books hot and panty wetting but I also love an amazing story that will take you on an emotional roller coaster, and leaving you with that dreaded book hangover. Now if I could find a way to read them as fast as I can add them to my TBR I would be all set.
Hi my name is Josie Melendez. I am a 43 years old Clifton, New Jersey resident. I love to read! Ok let me clarify, I love to read
really steamy, hot, tear jerking, angst filled books
(OK OK I LOVE BOOK PORN TOO)! You can find me in a corner with my Kindle plugged into the wall. I am always on my husband‘s raft (WRATH but he says raft) because I am a one-click whore and I am PROUD OF IT!!!! I am not afraid to read a book that is deemed edgy, different or dark, I welcome them. I have two full time jobs. My 9:00 am to 5:00 pm job that pays and then my 24 hour book reading job. I DO NOT SLEEP! That is what my girls tell me anyways. Why should I when there are so many books out there that need to be read and reviewed?! I am also a mother of 3 wonderful children. My 22 year old son, Jesus, who works on Wall Street. I do not see him a lot. He has a girlfriend and I might turn his girl in to a book whore too! My 19 year old son, Ruben, who is a US Marine. And my 10 year old daughter, Analycia, who shares my love of books as well. 
My name is Debbie Leitao, born and raised a Jersey girl. I am 41 and a mother of 3 and still live in New Jersey. I am a fitness fanatic and have taken 1-click book whoring to a whole new level. If you can't find me at the gym teaching a class I am home with my kindle in my hand. Give me a dirty talking Rockstar, Biker, MMA Fighter or any other Hot Alpha male to read about and I am game!!!! Nothing better than a Hottie who is sporting a little Bling Bling on his jewels!!!! I love a good panty dropping, drool wiping, kindle throwing read!!! Books are my obsessions and I am not ashamed to admit it!!!
My name is Shanyn, and I am a "work from home mom" of three girls. I live in Northern New Jersey, with my husband, three daughters, and our dog. I love reading, when I have the time, and especially love any kind of love story with angst, that will give me those horrible butterflies in my stomach and throat. When I was younger I read all the time. Unfortunately, I stopped for a few years, until my cousin introduced me to "Fifty Shades of Grey", and suddenly I couldn't stop reading again! Thanks Kim for reminding of the joys of reading. 
I am a wife, a mother and not to be taken lightly, obsessed with BEARDS and READING! I love to fall with the characters as they fall for each other. I look for the cute, sweet, swoony reads and when the day calls for it give me a suited hotty; give him a beard and I'm putty in your hands. I read at anytime during the day... or night that I can squeeze it in. Don't ask me about what's on the TV because I wouldn't know... SOA is over so now I read!! Megan
Hi!!! I'm Tara. I'm a quick witted firecracker who has become quite obsessed with reading SMUT! There I said it, the truth is out. I currently reside in northern South Carolina, but I am a Jersey girl through and through. Within the next few months, we are planning on moving back north so we can be back closer to friends and family. When I am not reading, I can be found hanging out with my amazing 4 legged 60lb little fur-ball Isabel, or doting on my amazing husband of almost 15 years. Until about 6 months ago, I strictly read mystery/suspense, but then my girl Shanyn introduced me to the world of Indie Authors and smutty books, and well the rest is history. Here’s a list of *some* of our favorite authors:
Olivia Cunning
Colleen Hoover
Abbi Glines
Gail McHugh
S.C. Stephens
Georgia Cates
Tillie Cole
Tijan
Katy Evans
K.A Linde
Sarah Ann Walker
B.A. Wolfe
Caisey Quinn
Kristen Proby
Molly McAdams
Penny Reid
Nicole Edwards
BN Toler
Aly Martinez
A list of *some* of our books that have moved us,
stayed with us and made us want to share them
with anyone that would listen:
Fifty Shades of Grey Series by EL James
Thoughtless Series by SC Stephens
Beauty Series by Georgia Cates
Consequences Series by Aleatha Romig
Fallen Crest Series by Tijan
Collide by Gail McHugh
Bang by EK Blair
Hopeless by Colleen Hoover
Slammed by Colleen Hoover
Real/Mine by Katy Evans
I am HER/THIS is Me by Sarah Ann Walker
Undeniable by Madeline Sheehan
Captive in the Dark by CJ Roberts
Taking Chances by Molly McAdams
Reapers Property by Joanna Wylde
It Ain’t Me Babe by Tillie Cole
Blind Obsession by Ella Frank
Comfort Food by Kitty Thomas
Away by B.A. Wolfe
Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire
Shark Bait by Jenn Cooksey
The Lonely/Lost Boy by Tara Brown
The Original Sinners by Tiffany Reisz
Nine Minutes by Beth Flynn
Try/Take by Ella Frank
Always by Kindle Alexander
Double Full by Kindle Alexander
Bright Side by Kim Holden
Corps Security Series by Harper Sloan
Making Faces by Amy Harmon
Rock and Roll Never Forgets by Barbara Stewart
The Deal by Elle Kennedy An honorable mention to an ARC a couple of us have read and will be release this month…Manwhore by Katy Evans!! This just might be out favorite book in 2015!!
GIVEAWAY
a Rafflecopter giveaway
March 20, 2015
Book Blast & Interview: Reaper Madness by @NessieStrange
![Reaper Madness Banner 851 x 315_thumb[1]](http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2M-o6ThpNLk/VQVqxaIl4LI/AAAAAAAAPBM/ZzrP0kVCZs0/s1600-h/Reaper-Madness-Banner-851-x-315_thum%25255B1%25255D.png)
![clip_image002_thumb[1]](http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bH4aG0tQb5I/VQVq7nO4fOI/AAAAAAAAPBs/SaMuvBVm6EQ/s1600-h/clip_image002_thumb12.jpg)
Reaper Madness
Living Dead World
Book 2
Nessie Strange
Genre: Urban Fantasy/Paranormal
Publisher: Etopia Press
Date of Publication: November 21, 2014
ISBN: 9781941692325
ASIN: B00PYURBCQ
Number of pages: 223
Word Count: 71,385
Book Description:
This isn’t the afterlife she expected...
Jen MacLellan can’t get the hang of being a reaper. She’s been separated from Jack, the man she loves, and is stuck with an annoying telepathic link to her ill-tempered mentor, Sam. Now Death is breathing down her neck, promising to remove that annoying link if she gives him what he wants. But when reapers begin to disappear back on earth, leaving behind walking, talking dead people, Jen and Sam are thrust into a dangerous mission to recapture the souls, and a passionate physical relationship that complicates everything.
Jack Norris has no memory prior to waking up on the half-demon Nulcifer’s couch six months earlier. As he begins to investigate his past, he discovers a string of past lives tied together by a beautiful, mysterious brunette. Who is she? And why does finding her seem like a life or death proposition?
When Sam falls victim to fate during a routine visit to earth, Jen’s devastated. Desperate to get him back, she runs smack into the man she never thought she’d see again—Jack. She tries to keep her distance, but there’s no time to be awkward if they want to save Sam. When sinister plots are revealed, and betrayals threaten everything, she’s forced to make some tough choices—and learns that life is just as difficult when you’re dead.
Sam wasn’t kidding when he said I had no idea what I was getting into. And now, as I stared Death in the face—literally—from an uncomfortable black leather executive chair, it occurred to me for the first time that I was in way over my head. Between the pinstriped suit and dark, slicked-back hair, he resembled a character from The Godfather more than a deity who ruled over the dead and dying. Death was one scary motherfucker. And he was smiling.
“Care for a drink, Jennifer?”
I shook my head, but he rose anyway, retrieved two glasses from the cabinet behind him, and filled both with amber-colored liquid. “Relax, I’m not going to bite.”
That wasn’t what I was worried about.
“Now, how long have you been with us? About six earth months?”
I cleared my throat. “Ah yes. About that long.”
“I find it intriguing,” he said. “You have been telepathically linked to one of my reapers this entire time, yet you really demonstrate no capability when it comes to this job. One would think that would give you an edge, hmm?”
Ouch.
“You’d think,” I laughed. OK, I sucked at it. It was only recently I’d been allowed to travel back to earth to help retrieve souls. Sam did most of the work, while I trailed behind, like one of those ankle-biting little purse dogs. What I wanted to know was why he’d insisted I do the job in the first place. I’d never asked to be a reaper. It wasn’t like I wanted this.
“The occupation listed from your most recent incarnation on earth was a mortician, was it not? So you should be accustomed to working with the deceased and the sensitivities that go along with it.”
“These two jobs are absolutely nothing alike.” Shit. I’d reacted again, lost my cool because of something he said. Now that my brain had caught up with my mouth, the fire snuffed out and with it went my nerve. I needed to learn to bite my tongue. Considering the habit crossed over with me from my last life, maybe that was wishful thinking. “Well, I mean, because when I was a mortician, those people didn’t talk back to me.”
Death studied me. “No, I don’t imagine they did.” He scrunched his lips up, his brow furrowed—the only hint of emotion I’d seen from him—but it quickly faded. “What exactly is it that’s holding you back or hanging you up? I’m just trying to understand here.”
“Well, I guess some of it is that I feel bad for them. I want to make things easier, but Sam’s all about scaring them and intimidating and manipulating them. It doesn’t seem right. I mean, we’re their first point of contact with the afterlife; why does it have to be frightening?” I was doing it again. OK, I needed to breathe. “I just… I see the fear in their faces, and it tears at me. It doesn’t feel right. It’s not me.”
“Fear makes them more pliable. Which in turn, makes your job easier when it’s time to collect.”
“But I don’t…”
He held up a hand. “I don’t like excuses, Jennifer. You may not agree with all of the methods you have been taught, but you still need to learn them and be able to utilize all of them. Years down the line, when you actually have some experience, perhaps then you can develop your own strategies. For now, as a rookie in the division without a single reaping under your belt, you are obligated to follow the instruction of your mentor. Do you understand?”
I nodded.
“I also hear that you’ve been visiting the civil records bureau every day, searching for the whereabouts of a human soul that you arrived with.”
I twisted the glass between my fingers. Jack and I had been separated soon after our arrival, and I hadn’t seen him since. We’d been a couple on earth, but since arriving in purgatory he’d all but vanished. “I had no idea that was against the rules.”
“I suppose it isn’t, technically. Though I do wonder if some might construe it as an abuse of power. Your position as a reaper gives you access to a wealth of information beyond what the general public can see, but it is meant for research and job purposes. Not personal business.”
“I understand.”
Did this guy even blink? He drummed his fingers on the glossy black surface of his desk as he watched me. I braced myself for the inevitable punishment.
“Jennifer, I have a proposition for you.”
I squirmed in my seat. Was I in trouble or what?
“Sammael is one of my oldest reapers, and he’s very dear to me, but I fear he may be up to something. Something illegal or nefarious in nature. I’ve overlooked a great deal with him in the past, but it’s getting to the point where I won’t be able to do that anymore. I’ve no idea what he’s up to. I want you to find out.”
“Excuse me?”
Death leaned forward so that his elbows rested on the desk. “Or have you already learned things? Come now, you must be close. A telepathic bond like this is quite intimate. Surely he’s shown you something.”
Intimate? More like a pain in the ass. Like having a voice in your head, intruding when you least welcomed it, and always listening. “Um…no. Not really.”
“Might I remind you, that he’s unable to hear you while you’re within the walls of this office?”
I paused. “Sam is very guarded with his thoughts. Most of the time I don’t hear anything, well, other than what he wants me to hear.”
“As I expected he would be.” He sipped his drink. “Do I sense some hesitation on your part? You once said you loathed being attached to him. That his thoughts invading your head were like the worst kind of infestation. What happened to that fiery little bitch who marched in my office and demanded to have this bond severed?” His smile returned. “One would think you’d do everything you could to get away from that. Unless you’ve changed your mind.”
I sank back into the chair, cringing at the memory. One of the many times Sam had pushed my buttons a little too far. I’d gone to Death’s office without even thinking about it—a knee-jerk type reaction.
“I tell you what. You find out what he’s up to, and I will personally make sure that link is removed. Then we can decide whether or not you will continue working for me, or perhaps whether schooling or a different apprenticeship would be more beneficial. At least until your contract with me is completed. How does that sound?”
“Well…” I frowned, considering it. Did I want Sam out of my head? Hell yeah. But I didn’t want to have to rat him out to do it. As far as I was concerned, whatever he did was his own business and the less I knew, the better. Besides, how would I pull something like this off? He plucked thoughts from my head when I least expected it, even when I thought I was being clever and concealing them. I couldn’t imagine trying to hide a secret of this magnitude. “I don’t know.”
“Could it be you have changed your mind about him?”
“No. Absolutely not. It’s just, I have no idea how I’d keep this from him. I mean, he’d know right away. Even if I manage to hide the thought, he’ll know I’m hiding something, and he won’t let up until he finds out what. It wouldn’t work.”
Death looked thoughtful. “Have you tried any of the masking techniques I taught you?”
“Well, yeah, but they only work if I concentrate.” And who the hell could concentrate all hours? I was already getting paranoid. I needed to tuck this little piece of knowledge somewhere deep inside and hope that Sam wouldn’t feel the need to pry. Yeah right. I might as well have had a live bomb lodged in my skull.
“I see.” Death swirled the liquid in his glass before taking a healthy gulp. “Be that as it may, you are now a reaper, even if by title only.”
At least he was honest.
“And with that job comes great responsibility. I had such high hopes for you when you first joined us—a bright, intelligent, level-headed woman, someone who could perhaps reel Sammael in before he strayed too far from my reach. But even on a base level, your grasp of the job is subpar at best. I’ve always handpicked the finest individuals. Because of your unique circumstances I believed I’d found a gem. Unfortunately, the honeymoon is over.”
This was new territory for me. I’d never been called incompetent before. During my last life on earth I’d been an honor student in school, then I’d gotten a job I loved and was good at.
“I need results, Jennifer. You must complete a reaping during your next assignment. I need something to prove that first instinct wasn’t wrong, because I”—he sipped his drink again, his gaze never leaving mine—“hate being wrong.”
Death placed his glass on the desk.
“Do I make myself clear?”
I offered a quick, jittery nod and gripped the armrests of the chair. Fuck, how was I going to keep this from Sam?
“Good.” Oh God, he was smiling again. He placed both tips of his forefingers together in an inverted V in front of his nose. “You may leave.”
Character Name: Jen MacLellan
Character Bio: Jen is a twenty-something mortician, who after a whirlwind romance , tragically loses her life. She’s now a rookie reaper, trying to get used to the afterlife.
Describe yourself what is your worst and best quality? My worst?
Hmm. Maybe that I can be stubborn? And I do have a bit of a quick temper. My best qualities are that I’m reliable and loyal to those I care about.
What is the one thing you wish other people knew about you?
Well, I’m not as uptight as some might think. And I do have a slightly twisted sense on humor.
What is your biggest secret something no one knows about?
I might have fantasized about being with Jack before we ever got together...
What are you most afraid of?
Losing control.
What do you want more than anything?
To find Jack again. And to finally have Sam’s head out of my own--I mean really, this telepathic thing really blows.
What is your relationship status?
It’s complicated.
How would you describe your sense of fashion?
I’m a jeans and t-shirt type of gal.
How much of a rebel are you? Me, a rebel?
Not so much. Although, if I do really believe in something, I might go against what others expect.
What do you considered to be your greatest achievement?
Right now, just surviving a day without completely throttling Sam.
What is your idea of happiness?
Not having to throttle Sam for one of his complete asshole remarks? Just kidding. See? I do have a sense of humor. To me, happiness is something that’s inside, and it’s a state of mind. Like appreciating the small moments, and the things you have or the people you’re with.
What is your current state of mind?
I am so frazzled right now. Sam said I have my first employee review with Death, and I totally suck at this job. And Death is one scary dude.
What is your most treasured possession?
Right now it’s my memories of being with Jack. We don’t get to bring any possessions along when we join the afterlife, but they can’t take your memories, you know?
What is it that you most dislike?
Feeling out of control, like with this job. There’s so much I don’t know and understand and Sam’s not a very patient teacher.
Which living person do you, most despise?
I can’t think of anyone I despise. Although, Sam can be a total dick. He seems to enjoy tormenting me. That’s not really hate, though.
What is your greatest regret?
Not demanding that Jack stay with me when I first arrived in Purgatory. I never would’ve lost him that way.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Someone who lets me be me.
![clip_image004_thumb[1]](http://lh5.ggpht.com/-a8ep4gTDpe4/VQVrL6IUe7I/AAAAAAAAPCs/QUj5OM_XiOM/s1600-h/clip_image004_thumb12.jpg)
Nessie is a Massachusetts native and mother of two who has dabbled in everything from abstract painting to freelance sports reporting. She also loves a good story, whether it’s reading or writing one.
Living Dead Girl and Reaper Madness, the first two novels in her urban fantasy Living Dead World series, were published by Etopia press in 2014.
http://nessieslivingdeadworld.blogspot.com
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorNessieStrange
https://twitter.com/NessieStrange
http://amazon.com/author/nessiestrange
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7463821.Nessie_Strange
