Karen Swart's Blog, page 35
January 15, 2015
New Release: Yes, Master by @njcole1
BOOK INFORMATION TITLE – Yes, Master AUTHOR – NJ Cole GENRE – Erotica PUBLICATION DATE – January 16, 2014 LENGTH (Pages/# Words) - 10K PUBLISHER – Butterfly Publishing COVER ARTIST – Tm Franklin
BOOK SYNOPSIS Mary Jennings hit rock bottom. A stripper and brand new mother in New York City, she’s offered a reprieve by her sister to move to Reno for a fresh start. Deciding to go for it, her life takes a drastic turn when she offers to help out a friend. After a car accident leaves Colton bed ridden, a surprising offer of assistance turns into so much more. Driven by his need to dominate, sparks fly in the most unexpected way. A natural submissive and a professional Dominant—what happens when they spend every waking minute together? Will she be able to resist? Or will she give in to the urge and submit to him completely? Find out in this page turning sequel to Yes, Mistress.
BUY & TBR LINKS AMAZON KINDLE US
EXCERPT “Mary, are you a good girl?”
His words made butterflies erupt in my stomach and seem to fly out from between my legs. “Are you, Mary?” he repeated.
I don’t know why I responded the way I did, but I said, “Yes.”
“Then be a good girl and use your hands to help me with this little problem.”
I’d never actually given a hand job before. I’d used my hand to get a guy hard but never long enough for
him to finish. “I, uh … I don’t know what to do.” I felt my cheeks blush.
“Just like you’ve had been doing, Mary.”
I trembled as I brought my hand up and down his shaft. “Rub your hand over the head, good girl,” he groaned. I did as he told me and was surprised when fluid leaked from the tip instantly. “It’s been a while,” he said by way of explanation, and warning apparently, because not two minutes later he groaned, “You’re going to want to get a tissue, good girl.”
I leaned forward to get a tissue from the night stand on the other side of him. I was still jerking him off with one hand, and because it was such a far reach, when I stretched for the tissue, my breast touched the head of his penis. Colton let out a strangled yelp, and before I could even pull back, I felt something warm and wet on my blouse. I stood up quickly, but apparently, he wasn’t finished because several more streams of the warm fluid shot into the air. One landed right in the middle of my shirt, and the other fell onto the back of my hand that was still gripping him firmly.
“Motherfucker,” he grunted as the last stream shot from his body.
AUTHOR BIO NJ Cole is the author of five published books, Midnight Caller, Midnight Eternal, Landslide, Second Chances and Yes, Mistress. Unlike many of today’s authors, she chooses to write in first person, allowing the readers to experience life through the eyes of the unique characters that live in her head. Her love of those characters and respect for their stories come through loud and clear in her writing. With over two million reads of her online work in the past year NJ Cole is clearly an up and coming author. AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – WEBSITE / BLOG – FACEBOOK – TWITTER –
GOODREADS
This blitz was organized & hosted by
New Release & Top Ten: Phantom 2.0 by Leah D.W. @AuthorLeahDW
Title: Phantom 2.0 by Leah D.W.
Release Day: 16 January 2015
Genre: YA paranormal
Author page: www.facebook.com/leahdwauthor
Blurb:
“I am a phantom. Barely human with the duty to get rid of the possessed. That is why beings like me were created, why we were bred”
In a dying city filled with a deadly plague and even deadlier creatures, Déjà hides from a past drenched in blood and the only family she has ever known. She hates what she is and her cravings to spill fresh blood drives her away from anyone that gets too close. Living out her life wearing lace corsets and working in an underground nightclub keeps her secret from hurting others, until a bounty is placed on her head by a mystery benefactor.
Now she is stalked by an assassin that threatens to steal her heart and discovering a family of powerful beings that hold the key to her past, Déjà has no choice but to embrace what she truly is in order to battle the secrets that the city holds within its shadows.
Join the party - https://www.facebook.com/events/1520698231537728/
Paranormal books are my life. I started reading them since primary school and now I love to write all about monsters and more. I am a huge vampire and werewolf fan which is why I focus on them more when it comes to writing my tales and reading those from other amazing authors. Here is my top ten list of paranormal series that I absolutely LOVED and have read several times. They are awesome stories and inspire my muse when it comes to my writing.
Leah’s Top Ten Paranormal Series
10. Darkest Powers Trilogy by Kelley Armstrong
9. The Hush, Hush series by Becca Fitzpatrick
8. Strange Angels by Lili. St. Crow
7. Fallen Series by Lauren Kate
6. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead
5. The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare
4. The Nightshade books by Andrea Cremer
3. The Infernal Devices by Cassandra Clare
2. The Starcrossed Trilogy by Josephine Angelini
1. Graceling by Kristin Cashore
Graceling is my all-time favourite because it is so different from any other books I have read. I love the characters and even its second book Fire, is a story I can re-read over and over again. I think I have read this book ten times already and I still crave to read it again, especially when I am in a blue mood or need something to read when traveling. I recommend this book for anyone who loves ancient worlds, interesting new characters and an adventure that will leave you wanting more.
I am 21 years old and currently a journalism student at my local university. I live in South Africa in a town called Bloemfontein with my family and two beloved dogs. I have been writing since the age of 13 and my first published work is a short horror story titled Dracula's Mistress. I am busy working on a number of novels and I am an editor/proof reader for Bayou Brew Publishing.
I love writing in the genres of paranormal romance, fantasy fiction and historical fiction and I am a proud bookworm with a mountain of reads stacked up in my room. I am also studying criminology in order to be able to write mystery horrors.
The book that has been published is Unnatural, a collection of paranormal short stories that are full of action, adventure and amazing characters.
I also have short stories in various anthologies. Love Kills, Unhappily Ever After; fairy tales with a twist and Soul Games. My novel The Runaway's Secret, a vampire paranormal romance, will be released in May.
Series Blast, Giveaway & Interview: The Love Brothers Series by @beerwencha2
Love Garage
The Love Brothers
Book One
Liz Crowe
Genre: Contemporary Romance for Real Life
Publisher: BeerWench Enterprises LLC
Date of Publication: 1/5/2015
ISBN:
ASIN: B00P4GJCL8
Number of pages: 268
Word Count: 67,000
Cover Artist: Fiona Jayde Media
Book Description:
Antony Love is the quintessential responsible oldest brother of a boisterous, Italian/Irish family, placed in charge at a young age by his parents who are busy running the family business. He manages his siblings with a fair but iron hand, until his life is shattered by personal tragedy leaving him the shell of the man he once was.
When outspoken matriarch Lindsay Halloran Love becomes ill, the youngest brother Aiden shows up at Antony's garage, having dropped out of school (again), needing work and a place to crash. Antony provides both, with three caveats: "Don't smoke in my truck, don't be late for work, and don't mess with my girlfriend."
But Aiden Love, budding novelist, gets one glimpse of Rosalee Norris, young widow of Antony's lifelong best friend and all bets are off.
Set in horse country near Lexington, Kentucky, The Love Brothers Series is a saga of family devotion that runs as wide and deep as the Ohio River--except on Sundays when brothers Antony, Kieran, Dominic and Aiden work out their frustrations on the basketball court, Love brother style.
The Love Brothers: A family saga with humor, heat and heart—not to mention beer, bourbon and basketball.
Available at Amazon
Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/CefA1aGVkpg
Book Trailer Featured on USA Today: http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyeverafter/2014/11/14/recommended-book-video-liz-crowe-al-goulden/18979137/
Love Garage opened bright and early the next morning, a Saturday, a day Aiden had hoped to spend recovering.
“I get so many oil changes and random small jobs on Saturdays, it doesn’t make sense to be closed and let the jackasses with the Quickilube at Walmart get the business,” Antony insisted when Aiden groaned with dismay upon being awakened after two hours of drunken sleep. It didn’t help that the awakening occurred at the business end of a thrown pillow. “Get up, Romeo. You owe me rent money.”
He did, slowly, queasily hitting a shower, sore all over, his skin mottled from bug bites. But nothing topped the glorious agony of a bourbon hangover like the one that had him firmly in its evil grasp.
He slouched out the door, cursing Antony, cursing Tricia, cursing her ex-husband for throwing her in his path last night. But mostly cursing his own weak-ass uselessness. He rested his head against the cool comfort of the truck window until Antony hit a bump or two, which sent extra pain jolting down his spine.
“Sorry,” his brother muttered, glancing over at him.
“No, you’re not.”
“Got me there. And you’d better warn me if you’re about to toss your cookies. I won’t have that in my vehicle, got me?”
Aiden rubbed his neck and nodded, swallowing the urge to throw up all over the pristine interior on principal. “Why d’you hate me so much? You used to like me.” He stared over at his brother, heart thumping, ears humming, throat closing up with nausea. He despised waking up still drunk.
“I don’t hate you.” Antony turned onto the main road headed into town.
“Could’ve fooled me. You’re a real asshole anymore. Worse than Dom.”
Antony merely shrugged, not rising to that tried-and-true bait. So they spent the rest of the ride to the garage in silence. Once there, Antony sat gripping the wheel. Aiden waited, hoping he’d get something out of him—something he would assure him that the man he thought he remembered as the protective, funny, and loving guy he’d grown up with still existed inside the guy walking around wearing Antony’s skin.
Finally, he let go of the wheel, exhaled, and squared his shoulders as if prepping for battle. Aiden made a mental note to talk to Kieran about how badly Antony had descended into his life of non-stop mourning and jerk-hood.
“So, Rosalee, not putting out for you or what? You need to get laid maybe? Knock the edge off?”
The glare Aiden got for saying those particular words did make him worry Antony might punch his aching head through the passenger-side window.
He clenched his jaw in the way Aiden remembered from their childhood. “That is so far outside the realm of your business as to be in another galaxy. Get to work and don’t say her name to me again.”
And with that, Aiden was left with the fleeting thought that mentioning Rosalee directly was probably not a good idea. He surely didn’t need Antony to guess that her name was on his lips, or front and center of his mind.
He shook his head—a Bad Plan because it summoned the pounding agony back with a vengeance. Groaning, he climbed out and shuffled over to the door.
A new day began at Love Garage.
Coach Love
The Love Brothers
Book 2
Liz Crowe
Genre: Contemporary Romance for Real Life
Publisher: BeerWench Enterprises LLC
ASIN: B00PHLU0CK
Number of pages: 229
Word Count: 58,000
Cover Artist: Fiona Jayde Media
Book Description:
The smoldering intensity of first love ~ the forbidden fantasy of temptation ~ the cold hard facts of real life.
When one man’s hopes are dashed apart in a split second after years spent chasing a dream, he returns home to Kentucky furious at the world and everyone around him.
Kieran Francesco is the middle son of the volatile, tight-knit Halloran-Love family. His role as peacemaker and the one true athlete is well established. He now faces life devoid of the sport he adores after a horrific, career-ending accident, which places him in a new and entirely uncomfortable position—that of the brother with no future.
Over the course of a few tumultuous months Kieran is plunged back into life at the center of the Love family, where he must cope with one self-destructive brother, one ill-timed reconnection to an old flame and a series of bad choices that land him in more trouble than he’d ever known existed.
COACH LOVE, book 2 of The Love Brothers, a family saga of sibling loyalty that runs as deep and wide as the Ohio River—at least until Sunday, when Antony, Kieran, Dominic and Aiden work out their frustrations at the weekly Love brother pick-up basketball game.
Available on Amazon
Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/CefA1aGVkpg
Book Trailer Featured on USA Today: http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyeverafter/2014/11/14/recommended-book-video-liz-crowe-al-goulden/18979137/
As he drove the twenty or so miles from his parents’ house into town Kieran’s head began to clear. The windows were down and the tunes cranked. The sun shone. Signs of summer--one of his favorite seasons--were all around him. Parks packed with families, all the basketball courts and swimming pools overflowing. The sight of a gaggle of boys on bikes riding alongside him for a while, singing along with whatever random, crappy rap song currently polluted the airwaves made him smile.
“Hey, it’s Kieran Love!” one of the punks shouted after a few blocks. “Can you come over and shoot a few with us?”
He waved and drove on, gratified but sad, the sound of their cheerful unhappiness at his refusal filling his ears, taking the stretch of four lane road at seventy miles an hour, pressing the gas pedal to the floor, the throaty, powerful roar of the car’s engine revving him from head to toe.
It would be all right because he and Melinda loved each other. They had from the moment they’d met. He passed some grandpa in a Toyota, as the deep green fields surrounded by picturesque white fences and dotted with horses filled both sides of his vision.
He’d been home and recuperating from radical knee surgery with the best prognosis he could hope for after such a nasty break--to walk normally, much less play the occasional pick up game. His depression had been deep, wide, and terrifying. He woke every day at his parents’ house, unwilling even to get out of bed, not that he could without help for the first few weeks.
Antony had tossed a laptop computer at him one day when he’d been sulking, unshaven, and eating an entire bag of potato chips, something he’d not done since the age of ten when his fate--bound for basketball fame and fortune--had been determined.
“Here, find a job, find a date, find something,” he’d said before yanking the empty chip bag away and smacking Kieran’s head hard enough to make his ears ring.
“Ow. Leave me alone, asshole. I’m grievously injured,” he’d said, not caring about the swear-free zone he inhabited.
“That’s three dollars young man,” his mother had called out from the kitchen.
“You live with this, jerk, and see how you feel about finding ‘a date.’“ He’d hooked his fingers around the words, heart in his throat at how badly he’d wanted to call Cara right then.
But by the next weekend he was caning and limping his way toward the door to some faux-fancy Italian restaurant in Lexington, rubbing his freshly shaved face and trying not to sweat through his dress shirt. The woman from the internet site sat at the bar, twirling an olive-laden swizzle stick in her martini glass, long, slim, bare legs crossed, feet encased in sky-high patent leather heels. He’d exhaled, beyond relived that he’d not been cat-fished by some troll, or worse, a dude.
He’d hesitated then, something in him telling him to turn around and leave, fast. But at that moment, she’d flashed him the whitest, most perfect smile he’d ever seen and he’d been hooked. He still didn’t know how. They’d gone out for three weeks before she let him kiss her. It’d been another three weeks before he got anywhere near her tits. It had been a solid four months before he scored but that encounter had been, in a word, epic.
Melinda liked to talk dirty, wear heels and a garter belt while he fucked her. Loved doing it with all the lights on and in semi-public places. She gave head like a pro at first, before he’d given her an engagement ring.
Her bitchiness had come across as extreme decisiveness, sort of hot in way, he’d admit, since he tended toward the spontaneous and unplanned--”wishy washy” as he now understood it thanks to Melinda’s re-categorization of his personality. Her tight grip on her emotions and her surroundings, the OCD way she ordered her life did grate on him at times but he figured she tolerated his innate sloppiness and willingness to wake on a Sunday without a plan in place for the rest of the day. When he realized he sat across from her at some overpriced, hipster restaurant near her office after going out with her for eight months, ready to present her with a ring he could barely afford, it had shocked him without seeming to even faze her.
“Well, of course I’ll marry you, but you’ve got to find a better job,” she’d drawled as she sipped her champagne.
“A new job?” He’d gotten the teaching gig at his old high school and couldn’t imagine any job he’d want or like better. She made six figures for Christ’s sake, at least he thought she did.
Elated, drunk with lust and achievement, he’d tried to get his long legs adjusted under the small table jammed between all the others and covered with small plates of “tapas” which, best he could tell were “appetizers” only twice the price and half the helpings.
“I’ll do anything you want, Melinda. You saved me, honest to God you did.”
She’d fluttered her inky black lashes and gazed at him with an expression that convinced him he’d made the drastic move for the right reasons. The following year had been a combination of frustration, anger and high school level blue balls. The double drama Antony and Aiden had foisted on the Love family during that time hadn’t helped but it had distracted him. He’d taught his classes, helped out with the basketball team pro bono without telling Melinda and had been happier than he’d ever been as a pro athlete.
The fact that she maintained her uber-bitch persona around his family killed him. But he was hooked.
Still.
Mostly.
Book 3: LOVE BREWING available in ebook format March 1, 2015
All 3 books available in print March 14, 2015
Love Brewing
The Love Brothers
Book 3
Liz Crowe
Book Description:
Every family has one—the black sheep, the problem child, the prodigal. But Dominic Sean Love could teach all of those guys a lesson or two. Stuck in the middle of a boisterous group of siblings, he’s given “acting out” a new meaning from the day he drew his first breath.
While he’s the one son who follows his strict father’s footsteps into the Love family business, he’s also the one who butts heads with him the hardest. Their epic clashes are the stuff of family legend. But they have made peace and work side by side to take Love Brewing to the next level of success.
Until Dominic does the one thing his father can never forgive.
Diana Brantley has been Dominic’s friend, girlfriend and ex-girlfriend so many times she’s lost count. When he shows up at the farm she’s slowly transforming into a wildly popular farm-to-table resource for restaurants all over the U.S. her first impulse is to shoot first and ask questions later. But she doesn’t. And their lives entwine once more, for good, bad and ugly.
FREE NOVELLA AVAILABLE FEB. 1, 2015 ON
AMAZON ONLY: “SAFE LOVE.”
Book 4: FAMILY LOVE available Summer 2015 in ebook and print
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
Nope, I wanted to be in this order:
Veterinarian Doctor President The president’s Press Secretary
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
I’ve been writing for my career since I started it. Crafting a decent press release or news article is just as much of an art as writing a novel so I’ve been a writer for over 20 years.
How long did it take to get your first book published?
I had a short story published fairly quickly after I began trying (in 2008) but it is no longer available thank the Lord because it sucked. I did learn a lot through that process and the first set of novels I’m most proud of up to this point (The Stewart Realty series) finally found the light of day in 2010 after 2 years of rejections and very much needed fixes and revisions.
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
I am part owner of a craft microbrewery and up until this past May was their marketing director. I plan to return to my successful real estate career later this year to augment the writing, making time for them both in way that’s more healthy for me that I did while trying to market the brewery.
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
The Love Brothers series is about family dynamics in a southern town. Books 1 & 2 are now available. Book 3 will be available in March.
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
I do both. This series is my first self-published project. I have books with Ellora’s Cave, Decadent Publishing and Tri Destiny Publishing.
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
Not long, I’m a bit of a marathoner when it comes to writing. I tend to shut everything else out once I’m done “head crafting” the basics. My longest book (Good Faith) is 220,000 words and it took me about 8 weeks.
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
I have several new projects, including more Love Brothers novels (a freebie novella is coming in February), a thriller novel set in future Detroit and a chick lit style novel about a lady sportscaster (also set in Detroit).
What genre would you place your books into?
Fiction with romantic elements. I don’t (ever) guarantee the perfect happy endings required by “romance” but many of my books are in that genre because they fit it best.
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?
In The Love Brothers it would have to be Lindsay Love, the matriarch. She’s bossy, strong, and opinionated – not perfect by any stretch. But able to manage her 4 boys and 1 girl, until she gets bad news about her health in book 1.
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
I hardly read any of them anymore, having learned that as a rookie. It gives you big head while simultaneously crushing your tender author’s ego. Neither of which are conducive to creative production.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
I like both ebook and hardcopy formats and usually have one of each going at the same time!
What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once?
Cat’s Eye by Margaret Atwood (I’ve read almost all of her books more than once). I think she presents female friendships (female characters generally) in the most brutally realistic way possible. And I adore her style.
Close second would be Stephen King’s epic “The Stand.”
Your favorite food is?
Pizza
Your favorite singer/group is?
Too many to name but The Avett Brothers are right up there.
Your favorite color is?
Yellow
Your favorite Author is?
Margaret ATwood
Amazon best-selling author, beer blogger, brewery marketing expert, mom of three, 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
Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Banewolf by @Eden_byNite
![Banewolf Banner 851 x 315_thumb[1]](http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rOMemSxP7dc/VLSxJxd2xvI/AAAAAAAANpg/f1s4LWoO4kU/s1600-h/Banewolf-Banner-851-x-315_thumb12.png)
![clip_image002_thumb[1]](http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6xrrcJwn5A0/VLSxVH6Rw6I/AAAAAAAANqA/Riy9uNjH2Uc/s1600-h/clip_image002_thumb12.jpg)
Banewolf
Dark Siren Series
Book Two
Eden Ashley
Genre: paranormal romance, young adult
ISBN: 9780989963237
ASIN: B00GTT3RDI
Number of pages: 395
Word Count: 90,000
Cover Artist: Nathalia Suellen
Book Description:
New enemies are made.
New allies must be forged.
Kali is beginning to regain her memories. In doing so, she discovers old secrets and betrayals that threaten to unravel her present and shake the foundation for Rhane’s belief in her innocence. While her maturing abilities present unique challenges, a bigger problem arises when Kali learns her ex-boyfriend has made a misguided deal with the enemy in order to win her back—a decision that may ultimately cost him his humanity.
Keeping Kali safe has become a full time job for Rhane. And struggling to gain control of the immortal Banewolf isn’t making that task any easier. The power to eliminate the growing threat against Kali lies at Rhane’s fingertips, but using it means risking his friends to the insatiable blood lust of a monster. So Rhane is forced to forge a shaky alliance with creatures he has sworn to destroy. Despite these new allies, the danger pressing on their borders intensifies, culminating in a heartbreaking and shocking finale.
The strength of the bond between young and ancient lovers will be tested…and if Kali and Rhane are to survive, they must find a way to be unbreakable.
I Want You to Remember…
After seeing the Cal who wasn’t Cal, Kali’s mind was far too harried to focus on class. Skipping the last block of the day, she went to the swimming pool and sat at the bottom for a long time. Her eyes were closed. Her body was motionless. The pressure of the water became a loving caress, helping to relax everything except her mind. Those anxious thoughts just wouldn’t let go. Even with all Rhane had revealed, the past remained hidden like it had never existed.
But you didn’t forget.
That was right. An entire lifetime…taken. And it wasn’t just her life with Rhane. Kali had lived well over a dozen lives in stolen human bodies. Yet she couldn’t remember a single one of them. Each of those little girls had been stripped from the arms of a family who loved them, only to be replaced by a soul-sucking, fire-setting siren. And for what reason? If Rhane knew, he wasn’t telling. Why won’t he talk to me? I’ve proven my trust.
Well, she amended the thought. I did push him away at first, but only for like fifteen minutes. Then Gabriel showed up and started ripping more of my life to pieces.
Kali took a breath and then another, but not with her lungs. Her skin absorbed oxygen from the water and exchanged it for carbon dioxide waste in her blood. The process didn’t come automatically. It took a lot of focus to make underwater breathing happen. In her two weeks on the lam, she’d discovered this new talent. And it had proven very useful, practically allowing her to live in the water. Holding her breath was certainly easier, but that came with time limits. After twenty minutes, she had to surface.
She was determined to master underwater breathing. Concentrating on the task left her brain severely limited in the number of other things it could worry about. And that was a plus.
Feeling the faintest tremble in the water, she opened her eyes. The lights were flickering. After a few cycles of an ebbing and surging glow, they went out completely. She tried not to panic in the darkness, expecting the underwater lighting to illuminate soon. But instead, there came a muted thud. All of the lights suddenly flooded the pool arena. And Kali screamed.
Bodies were everywhere. Hundreds of them littered the swimming pool floor. Parts of their skin were burned. Charred chunks broke apart from decaying flesh. Tentacles of black liquid snaked into the water. The body of a child rose up, a bloated mass set adrift in a nonexistent current. Kali stared into the film of the corpse’s dead eyes with absolute horror. Black hair floated around his head in a dark halo of death. Even with blanched, greying and puckered skin, Kali saw in the child a startling resemblance to Rhane. Bubbles spurted from her mouth as she screamed again.
She kicked hard, trying to get as far away from the corpse as fast as she could. When her back slammed into solid concrete, she turned to scramble up the pool wall. Fingers slipping on the wet ledge, she finally managed to pull herself out and flop onto her stomach. Trembling with a dozen more screams welled up inside, Kali shook with the effort of not releasing them.
Pushing to her feet, she looked down into the water, needing desperately to believe she was not going crazy. There were no dead people. There was no dead boy. The pool was empty.
#
Icy water pounded from the showerhead, streaming into her eyes as it washed the chlorine from her body. All Kali could see was the boy. His lifeless face floating before hers, dark and grey and distorted in death. It took both hands to smother her sobs. She couldn’t understand what was happening. Was it possible that the vision was a real memory like the nightmares of the horseman had been real memories?
The lights in the shower room flickered and went out just as they had in the pool auditorium. Her breath caught in her chest as she waited for what would happen next. She didn’t have to wait long.
“Kalista,” a male voice sighed into the darkness.
She backed away. She was naked and blind. And in the shower was a stranger who probably meant her harm. The vulnerable state made Kali’s movements very clumsy.
“Darkesong.”
This time the voice was closer. So close, she could feel the whisper against her skin. She knew it was the thing pretending to be Cal. Kali bit her lip. She was too frightened to scream. But screaming wouldn’t have helped anyway.
At first, his touch was light. Kali reacted, flinching away violently. Then “Cal” grabbed her. He was an irresistible force shoving her against the wet shower wall. His hard body pressed against hers. The heat from him completely dispelled the cold that fell around them.
Kali felt his face against her skin. His hot breath steamed next to her cheek.
“Don’t,” she whispered.
Strong fingers slipped around her throat, but their hold was gentle. The lights partially returned, and she could see him. Physically, everything was the same…except for the eyes. Gone was the shocking blue of Cal’s stormy stare. In its place were two red orbs that reflected abnormally in the dim light. She would have recognized those eyes anywhere.
“Gabriel.”
He nodded. His body still had her pinned. His right hand grasped her throat, while the other rested idly against the wall. She waited for him to say or do something, but he didn’t. Nothing happened. Open malice and rage emanated from Gabriel’s still form, but Kali wasn’t entirely sure those emotions were aimed at her.
She inhaled a shaky breath. The action squashed her breasts against his chest. “What did you do to Cal?”
Another unnerving smile slashed his face. “He’s still here.”
“What do you want?”
Pressing his nose into the curve of her neck, Gabriel inhaled a dramatic whiff of her scent. Trembling, Kali tried to push away, wedging her body painfully into the wall. When Gabriel’s left hand moved, she went rigid. But the hand never touched her. It hovered next to her head, holding a tiny yellow stone.
“I want to help you remember.”
The events that followed would remain a blur of varying shades of grey darkness for some time. When Kali came to, she was standing in the rain, completely drenched. Rhane stood in front of her, lips moving soundlessly as he shouted, the words swept away by an unforgiving wind. She had never seen his eyes so black or so deadly focused as he leveled a gun directly over her heart.
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
I work in the medical field, practicing physical therapy at a skilled nursing facility. I really enjoy my job. Even only working part-time, it pays the bills, but writing is my first love.
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
It takes me about ten months. I’m trying to shrink that number and publish twice a year, starting in 2015.
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
More of the same! Though, I do have an idea for a contemporary romance that I hope to eventually tackle. I’ll have to be really disciplined to keep any paranormal or fantasy elements from straying in.
What genre would you place your books into?
Paranormal romance/fantasy romance.
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
I’m addicted to love stories. Even though I’m a total realist and partial cynic, nothing makes me happier than witnessing two characters that I care about fall in love.
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
Yes, but only because so far people have been kind. I’ve seen reviews where someone has launched an all out attack against a book or its author. There’s always room for constructive criticism, but when someone sets out to be cruel…I don’t understand that.
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?
I always construct a working title just so there’s a label on my desktop. As I’m writing, something else will come along that identifies better with the story, and that becomes the published title.
Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?
Names pretty much always come after the subject has been created.
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
I’m a total pantster and do all of that as I go!
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, not really. The Dark Siren series does examine a lot of family elements though—what makes a true family, blood or love?
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
Paperback.
Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?
As a rule, I’ll only watch the movie or read the book. Whenever I break that rule and do both, I always regret it. But there is one exception. Sundays at Tiffany’s by James Patterson. The book was so cute and then went a little crazy/weird off the rails. I think the movie fixed that. The HEA ending didn’t hurt either. It was so sweet!!
Your favorite food is?
Cake.
Your favorite singer/group is?
Collective Soul probably has the most songs I love out of any group.
Your favorite color is?
That’s a tie between pink and black.
Cynic, realist, and hopeless romantic all rolled into one, Eden was born and raised in a small, sunny town in South Carolina, but thunderstorms have inspired her best ideas. There are few things she loves more than curling up with a good book and a cup of coffee on a rainy day, (except maybe chocolate cake. She loves cake.) often reading into the wee hours of morning when something really grabs her attention. She pretty much loves anything with supernatural elements, so writing paranormal romance and fantasy romance seems to be a natural fit.
http://edenbynite.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/Eden_byNite
January 14, 2015
Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Destiny Calling by @mbonatch
Destiny Calling
The Enchantlings
Volume 1
Maureen L. Bonatch
Genre: Paranormal Romance
subgenre: suspense, fantasy. Theme: New Adult, demons
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Date of Publication: December 22 2014
978-1-62830-666-8 Paperback
978-1-62830-667-5 Digital
Number of pages: 310
Word Count: 80,630
Cover Artist: Debbie Taylor (DCA Graphics)
Book Description:
Hope only wants to find out if her ability to infuse euphoria or despair with her touch makes her the devil's spawn, or his exterminator. But when the woman who raised her is murdered by something not human, she loses the only family she knew and discovers one she might wish she hadn’t.
Drawn back to the home town she vowed never to return to, her ability is seen as an asset to everyone but Hope, and she doesn't know who to trust. Her family wants her to help them overcome an enemy oppressing the human population, while the man of her dreams is courting her for the Underworld.
Time is running out, and Hope’s choice may be made for her, as she discovers she’s a pawn in a bigger game played by a merciless ruler who doesn't lose.
Tagline: Hope Doesn’t Know If The Man She Can Touch Is A Dream Come True, Or A Nightmare Just Beginning.
Amazon Kindle Amazon Paperback The Wild Rose Press
I strained to release my arm from Griffith’s vise-like grip while scanning the surrounding trees, trying to determine which was less of a threat, the beast of a man holding me or those who might be waiting for me in the woods.
“You will come inside, now.” Griffith spoke slowly and deliberately as if I were a small child.
I batted at the hand Griffith placed on my head. “I’m not a puppy, quit petting me.”
“I will protect you.” Griffith’s warm breath caressed my ear. “If for no other reason, to find out what I’m giving up and why she wants you so badly.”
I inhaled his masculine scent, like musky earth. It washed over my face, and the tension in my jaw released. I stopped struggling. “Are you the devil?” My tongue was thick and heavy so the words came out slurred.
“Not even close.” His words soothed and comforted, like having a weighted blanket cocoon me. Each movement was an effort. It wasn’t the same as the thing in the woods. This was more like the feeling after a long massage or bubble bath.
“It’s not safe.” Griffith wrapped his arms around me, and I rested against his broad chest.
“It’s not safe.” I nodded. My muscles relaxed and my eyelids grew heavy.
“It’s cold. We’re going inside.” Griffith kept his arm supporting me as he steered me toward the house.
“We’re going inside.” I parroted and walked up the steps, leaning heavily on him.
Out of the corner of my eye, something was cautiously moving at the edge of the woods. Branches snapped as whatever was observing us crept closer.
Character Name: Hope Joy Hallows
Character Bio: I was raised in an orphanage until I was 13, then my aunt adopted me. When I was almost 21 she was murdered by something not human, it was then that I knew I couldn’t hide what I was anymore. When I went to seek revenge I found more than the creatures that had killed my aunt, I found a family I didn’t know I had and the man I’d been dreaming of for years.
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Describe yourself what is your worst and best quality?
I think my best and worst quality is one and the same, my habit of speaking without thinking things through first. That’s because you know with me what you see and hear is what you get. I’m not going to sugar coat it with lies that will only hurt you later. Though some may disagree, after all the lies I’ve endured in my life, I think honesty is the best quality.
What is the one thing you wish other people knew about you?
That despite what I might say, or how I might act, I’m really not as tough as I come across and I could use a shoulder to lean on now and then. I’ll never be as sweet as Destiny or happy as Chance, but that’s only because I’ve never been able to trust anyone enough to let my guard down that much. I hope that might change some day.
What is your biggest secret something no one knows about?
My family knows I’m able to give a feeling of hope with my touch, what they don’t know is that I can take hope away from someone the same way. The same way the Oppressors do, the creatures that killed my aunt. I’m not sure what that makes me.
What are you most afraid of?
That I won’t be able to control my gift, and I’ll hurt the people I love in the process.
What do you want more than anything?
I’d thought it was to find my mother, but really it’s to belong somewhere and feel like I fit in.
What is your relationship status?
I’m single, although I think there is a potential for something with Griffith. I’m just not sure I want to explore it.
How would you describe your sense of fashion?
Unfortunately, I don’t have one. I tend to wear whatever is comfortable, which usually ends up being jeans and a t-shirt.
How much of a rebel are you?
Apparently more than I’d realized. I had no idea how many things you had to do just to keep peace within a family. I guess that’s one benefit I hadn’t known I had growing up without anyone to worry about but myself.
What do you considered to be your greatest achievement?
From what I’ve learned about the Enchantlings so far, it seems my greatest achievement would be surviving until my twenty-first birthday.
What is your idea of happiness?
A warm bed at night and a hot cup of coffee in the morning. Okay, and maybe a little bit of tequila in the evening.
What is your current state of mind?
Confused, and a little frustrated. Everyone in this town seems to speak in riddles without giving me the answers that I need.
What is your most treasured possession?
The letter from Aunt Tessa, the last words she ever wrote to me.
What is your most marked characteristic?
The birthmark I share with my triplet siblings. That is the final confirmation that we are the Enchantlings.
What is it that you, most dislike?
Secrets. It seems like everybody has them.
Which living person do you, most despise?
I’d say Drake but I’m not sure he can be considered as a living person.
What is your greatest regret?
The argument I had with my Aunt Tessa right before she died. If I hadn’t run out like I did, she might still be alive.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
His laugh. That’s why I put up with my brother, because he laughs all the time. It’s also why I’ve been trying to coax it out of Griffith, because he doesn’t laugh much at all.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
I’d say the same thing, a genuine laugh. There’s not enough happiness in the world, or in me.
Who is your favorite hero in fiction?
Rhett Butler from Gone With the Wind. He’s a strong enough man to love a strong woman.
Which living person do you most admire?
Ruthie, because she has endured so much in her life but still presents with a smile and a bring it on attitude.
If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?
I wish I could get rid of some of the anger I carry inside me.
What is your motto?
All you need to get by is air and attitude.
Growing up with four siblings had Maureen familiar with escaping into a good book, or the recesses of her mind. She realized later in life everyone didn’t have characters telling stories in their heads, or weren’t envisioning magic and mayhem within the everyday. This, and long walks in the beautiful state of Pennsylvania spawned a love of writing.
Since her desire to become a Solid Gold Dancer was thwarted when the show was discontinued, Maureen opted to pursue other paths. Attempting to conquer new endeavors proved fruitful with her first novella, while other attempts, such as challenging a fear of heights with parasailing, were unsuccessful.
Therefore she’s chased other interests, though none-the-less-daring, but closer to the ground, such as belly-dancing, becoming a self-proclaimed tequila connoisseur, fulfilling her role as biker babe to her alpha hubby and surviving motherhood to twins (so far).
Penning stories boasting laughter, light suspense and something magical in the hope of sharing her love of finding the extraordinary in the ordinary world.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mbonatch
Blog: http://www.maureenbonatch.com/blog/
Website: http://www.maureenbonatch.com
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/1AV4L
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/maureenbonatch/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maureenlbonatch
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3103486.Maureen_L_Bonatch
January 13, 2015
Book Blast & Giveaway: Sisters of Prophecy – Ursula by @BooksWeLove
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Sisters of Prophecy – Ursula
Sisters of Prophecy
Book 1
Jude Pittman and Gail Roughton
Genre: Paranormal, Time Travel
Publisher: Books We Love, Ltd.
Date of Publication: September 29, 2014
ISBN: 978-1-77145-310-3
ASIN: B00O2DTE1M
Number of pages: 164
Word Count: 50,000
Cover Artist: Michelle Lee
Book Description:
What’s a girl to do? Katherine Shipton has a painting that talks, an ancestor who won’t stay in her own century, and a former boyfriend with a serious ax to grind against her new fiancé. She already has a full plate, but when said ancestor sends her tripping back and forth between the 15th and 21st century without benefit of psychedelic drugs, the poor girl begins to doubt her own sanity.
Then her best friend, a high fashion model with more than her own share of psychic energy, and her troubleshooting aunt show up on her doorstep in response to a psychic SOS Katherine swears she didn’t send. Life couldn't get more complicated.
At least, that's what she thinks until her oilman fiancé disappears in the Gulf of Mexico and a DEA agent knocks on her door.
Available at Books We Love and Amazon
Katherine flitted restlessly over Ursula’s body. What was going on in that unconscious brain? Something was. She could feel it, feel a subliminal hum, like voices through phone wires, like electricity through power lines. Not that any such things would exist for four hundred or so years.
“Who are you talking to, Ursula? Sylvia, hurry!”
No answer. Not directly. Only the echo of Mother Shipton’s words.
There’s a crossroad up ahead. Or back in the past. Depends on how you think on it. If she takes one, well, then her fate—and yours—is sealed. If she takes another, her fate—and yours—is changed.
The crossroad! Was this it? The crossroad? Katherine concentrated and power hurled across the years, out of the past and into the future.
“Grandmother! Can you hear me? This is it, isn’t it? The place in time where destiny can change. But what do I do? What can I do?”
“You know what to do. Like calls to like and blood to blood. Show her! Show her where following her heart will lead her, the treasures she’ll reap! And show her what mindless obedience to the king will bring her!”
“But I don’t know any of that!”
“I do, child. And the visions of those two paths will flow from me to thee to her.”
“How the hell do you know? And if you do know, why not just show her yourself?”
“Child! What’s my name? What’s her name? What’s your name?”
“Would you please stop talking in those damn riddles of yours and just tell me what to do?”
“Child! The names! Remember the names!”
“You’re Ursula. Ursula Shipton. She’s Ursula. Ursula Sontheil—oh my God! Shipton! Toby Shipton! You’re her and she’s you and she’s Ursula Sontheil now but she’s got to become Ursula Shipton! Or I’ll—I’ll never—”
“You’ll never be born, child. Ursula Katherine Shipton will never be born. Nor any of the line before you from whence you sprang.”
“I still don’t understand! If she’s you—if you’re her—why can’t you just show her yourself?”
“I do! Through you! At this moment! Because you exist, I exist. Because I exist, you exist. If this moment passes, that chance is lost and I become that woman in the Tower, the one you saw in your dream. The one who’ll never live to be an old woman!”
“Oh, God, my head hurts!”
Jude Pittman emigrated from Canada to the United States with her mom and brother when she was 14. Her time there
included 12 years in Texas where the genus for her first murder mystery, “Shadows Are Deadly” now part of Jude’s “Murder on My Mind” trilogy first took root. In 1992 Jude returned to British Columbia where she met her husband John. The couple moved to Calgary, Alberta where they continue to live. Descended from the Shipton line, Jude has always been fascinated with the historical and legendary stories about her late and often maligned ancestor, Mother Shipton and her gifts of prophecy. The Sisters of Prophecy series is a fictional account of those Shipton sons and daughters who inherited Mother Shipton’s gifts.
Gail Roughton is a native of small town Georgia whose Deep South heritage features prominently in much of her work. She’s worked in a law office for close to forty years, during which time she’s raised three children and quite a few attorneys. She’s kept herself more or less sane by writing novels and tossing the completed manuscripts into her closet. A cross-genre writer, she’s produced works ranging from humor to romance to thriller to horror, sometimes in the same book. She’s never quite sure herself what to expect when she sits down at the keyboard. Now multi-published by Books We Love, Ltd., her credits include the War-N-Wit, Inc. series, The Color of Seven, Vanished, and Country Justice. Currently, she’s working on Black Turkey Walk, the second in the Country Justice series, as well as the Sisters of Prophecy series, co-written with Jude Pittman.
http://bookswelove.net/authors/jude-pittman/
http://bookswelove.net/authors/gail-roughton/
https://www.facebook.com/Books.We.Love.Ltd
http://bwlauthors.blogspot.com
@BooksWeLove
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Blog Tour & Giveaway - Witch Hunter by @shari_nich
Presented by:
Witch Hunter - Ravens Hollow # 1 by Shari Nichols Audience: Erotica - Genre: Paranormal Romance - Formats: E-book - Publisher: Ellora’s Cave - Editor: Raelene Gorlinsky - Pages: 193 pages - ISBN: 9781419991882 - ASIN: B00PSGNXCI -Date Published: November 19, 2014
Determined MBI (Magickal Bureau of investigations) agent Alex Denopoulos will stop at nothing to catch a killer, including recruit notorious felon, Willow McCray to work for the agency. The lines between duty and passion become blurred the more time he spends with the sultry witch. In the midst of the investigation, they succumb to the dark edges of desire, placing both their lives in danger. Alex will risk more than his badge to keep her alive. Kick-ass witch Willow must use her powers for good if she wants to stay out of Hellios, a mage prison for those who have broken the Wiccan Rede of ‘Harm ye None.’ Willow never expects to fall so hard for Alex, a mortal with a penchant for justice and a deep seated hatred of witches. Though a future together seems impossible, she doesn’t want to let him go. Can she vanquish the evil surrounding them and give Alex her mind and body before she loses her heart and maybe her soul? 
Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes and Noble
Willow took a sip of her margarita and glanced down at Alex’s big hands, tanned and sprinkled with a smattering of dark hair. Funny, she never found a man’s hands sexy. Suddenly her mind filled with images of Alex trailing those big, masculine hands over her body. She wondered if he fit the stereotype. Big hands, big… “You never did answer my question. Are you considering taking me up on my offer?” The sound of his voice pulled her from a host of fantasies. Willow dug her nails into her palm to get her head back in the game. She shouldn’t be thinking about this man in such a raw, sexual way. “Why not? My car’s parked in the back.” She probed through the nearby crowd to check if Alex came here with bodyguards. A virtual cacophony of conversations invaded her thoughts, but nothing about protection for Alex. Once she got him alone, she’d take her chances and pray she wouldn’t be outnumbered. “Then let’s get out of here. Unless of course I’ve got some competition.” He motioned over her shoulder to the incubus whose head now lolled forward over the bar. “I think you’re flying solo here.” She’d set her trap and let the consequences be damned. She rubbed her finger along the rim of the glass and licked off the salt. She lifted the glass to her lips, savoring the tangy flavor of margarita mix along with the zing of tequila as it slid down her throat. Headrush. No surprise there, she couldn’t remember the last time she’d slept or eaten in the past forty-eight hours, existing on a combination of raw nerves and pure adrenaline. “You missed a spot.” He ran his thumb along the seam of her lip. He put it to his mouth and licked. “Mmm, sweet.” Her plan didn’t involve foreplay…but damn he was hot. In another time and another place she would be seriously into this guy. Too bad I might have to kill him.
March-George Tandy, Jr. Latch-Acoustic-Sam Smith A girl Like You –Edwyn Collins Blame-Calvin Harris, John Newman Clarity-Zedd, Foxes Dangerous-Bigdata, Joywave Do I Wanna Know-Artic Monkey 
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
Believe it or not, I actually wanted to go into advertising, and dreamed about writing ad copy, creating jingles or TV commercials. So I guess that was writing in a sense and using the creative side of my brain. I went to college for business and marketing actually.
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
Even before I ever wrote my first novel, a contemporary romance that’s in a drawer somewhere, I used to write crazy top ten lists, short stories, and crazy little notes and antidotes that I would share with friends and family.
How long did it take to get your first book published?
Twelve years. What can I say, I’m an overnight success. Lol
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
Yes. I work part time for my husband’s law firm doing the billing. I can work from home, which is great while raising two teenagers. It’s definitely not as exciting as writing though.
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
Witch Hunter.
In a desperate attempt to catch a killer, a special agent hires a notorious felon to come work for the agency. In the midst of the investigation, they succumb to the dark edges of desire, placing both their lives in danger. That might be more than twenty words. Sorry.
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
Ellora’s Cave Publishing
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
Witch Hunter took a while because I didn’t have a contract so I could write it at my leisure. Now the deadlines are much tighter. I would still say a year. But I’m a slow writer. I wish I was faster.
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
My next book is another erotic paranormal. It’s the second book in the Ravens Hollow series about a medium forced to banish a vengeful spirit from a haunted inn and ends up falling in love with the sexy innkeeper. I also have some contemporaries in the works. I love this whole billionaire trend. I have a story idea based on Marc Cuban’s persona from Shark Tank. I have a huge crush on him. Stay tuned.
What genre would you place your books into?
That’s a tough one, paranormal romance, erotic thriller, and erotic paranormal, take your pick.
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
I’ve always loved the paranormal genre. It’s fun to create a unique setting and a magickal world. It’s also convenient to have your character use magick to get out of a sticky situation. I was inspired by the Harry Potter series and loved reading the HP fan fiction. I thought maybe I could create a story like HP, but for adults. The fact that I grew up in a small town in Connecticut, known for hauntings also might have had something to do with it. I spent a lot of time hanging out at a neighbor’s house who introduced me to the Ouija board. I have fond memories of riding my bike to my best friend’s grandmother’s house where she used to serve us orange juice and chocolate chip cookies and talk about the ghost that lived with her. The paranormal has always been something embedded in my psyche, something I have been brought up with and fascinated by, in every way. I’m not only interested in ghosts and witches, but Nessie, UFO’s, Big Foot, and even mermaids, you name it, the stranger the better!
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?
My favorite character is my heroine, Willow McCray. She’s had an incredibly difficult life and yet has managed to change, grow and evolve by the end of the book. She’s tough on the outside, but vulnerable and very flawed on the inside. I think readers will be able to relate to her on many levels. I also love the fact that she’s psychic and can read people’s minds like most people read the newspaper. I always wanted to have that gift. I admire her too. She’s brave and places herself in danger time and time again. ,
How long have you been writing? and who or what inspired you to write?
I have been writing for about twelve years. I read so many books on how to write, took workshops, classes. I pored over fan fiction, watched and studied films and read every piece of fiction I could get my hands on. Finally, I decided to actually sit down and write my own novel. I think I’ve always loved writing, even as a teenager. I used to send very long notes that turned into mini novels to my friends.
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
I do have playlists that I create for my novels that bring me into the heart of story. I do most of my writing in my office. Although I will write anywhere, coffee shops, airports, hotel rooms, sometimes on scraps of paper if I don’t have my computer with me.
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
I’ll let you know. Lol I haven’t gotten one yet. You guys want to be the first?
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?
I think I wrote the book first then came up with some ideas for a title and consulted my critique partners then changed the story a bit and came up with a new name that reflected the story better.
How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?
I look up character names on different name baby sites. I’m more interested in the meaning behind the name then the name itself. The origins of the names also give me ideas for the characters personality traits as well.
Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?
I create the names first then the image of the character comes to me.
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
I definitely have detailed character sketches, and horoscope charts that I fill out before I write the story. Eventually, the personality emerges from there and becomes more three dimensional then the glimpses I see in my head.
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..")
I think redemption is at the heart of this story. Both the hero and the heroine have made mistakes in their lives and both hold onto a lot of guilt, and shame as a result. Together I think they learn how to overcome these negative emotions through the strength of love and learning to release the past.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
As a reader, I like both ebook and paperback. I love to read on my Nook. I absolutely adore the convenience of downloading a book instantaneously. I have a ritual too. Every Saturday morning, when the NY Times Book Review comes out; I load the books that sound interesting onto my Nook. I still also get books from the library from time to time. I love to buy armfuls at conferences from my chapter mates.
What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once?
I’ve read every book in the Harry Potter series like four times. I’ve also read all of Kresley Cole’s Immortals After Dark Series multiple times. I’ve also reread all of the books in the Crossfire series by Sylvia Day. I also love the Wallbanger series by Alice Clayton .The Beautiful series by Christina Lawrence is also one of my new faves. I don’t have just one. I also love The Diana Bishop Books. They are so good!
Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?
I’ve seen some good ones and bad ones. I’m really interested to see how Fifty Shades will turn out. I’ve had Gone Girl on my Nook for months and haven’t had the time to read it yet. I won’t see the move until I read the book, but I’ve heard the film is an excellent adaptation.
Your favorite food is?
Sushi, salmon, chicken, and anything chocolate!
Your favorite Author is?
I have so many. Sylvia Day, Alice Clayton, Kresley Cole, JK Rowling, Emma Chase
Shari Nichols grew up in a small town in Connecticut where haunted houses, ghosts and Ouija boards were common place, spurring her fascination with all things paranormal. Ever since she read her first Barbara Cartland novel, her life-long dream has been to write sexy, romantic stories. Shari has been married to her own alpha hero for twenty-two years. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, going to the gym, or hanging out with family and friends. She lives in New Jersey with her husband, two teenagers, and her adoring golden retriever. Shari graduated from Rider University with a degree in Business Administration. After spending several years in the grind of Corporate America, she quit to stay at home with her kids. Now she’s thrilled to spend her days in sweats, eating chocolate while pounding on her keyboard to create her next novel. Her first book, Witch Hunter has been contracted with Ellora’s Cave Publishing. Her next book, another steamy, romance, will venture into the world of ghosts and haunted inns. Shari is a member of Romance Writers of America, New Jersey Romance Writers, Liberty States Fiction Writers and Fantasy, Futuristic, and Paranormal Romance Writers.
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Tour Schedule – One Week Blog Tour for Witch Hunter Ravens Hollow #1 by Shari Nichols from Jan 12 to 20 Jan 2015. Jan 12 Coffee Books & Art – Promo, Guest Post & Dream Cast http://sarityahalomi.blogspot.com/ Kelly P's Blog - Promo http://kellyatx.blogspot.com/ Indy Book Fairy - Promo & Character bio’s http://paranormalbookfairy.blogspot.com/ Jan 13 Smile Somebody Loves You - Promo http://SSLYblog.wordpress.com A Cauldron of Books – Promo, Dream Cast, Character Bio’s & top tens http://acauldronofbooks.info Eclipse Reviews - Promo, Dream Cast, Character bio’s & Character Interview http://eclipsereviews.weebly.com Jan 14 Diane's Book Blog – Promo & Character Interview http://dianes-book.blogspot.com Angels with Attitude Book Reviews – Promo, Author Interview & Playlist http://angelswithattitudebookreviews-joelle.blogspot.com Portals to New Worlds – Promo ,Dream Cast , Character Bio’s & Author Interview http://authorkarenswart.blogspot.com Jan 15 Sweet Treat Reading Reviews – Promo http://strreviews.blogspot.com/ The Avid Reader – Promo, Dream Cast, Character Bio’s, Author Interview http://the-avidreader.blogspot.com Jan 16 Patricia D. Eddy – Promo &Guest Post http://www.pdeddy.com G & Co. Book Blog – Promo http://www.ggwblogs.blogspot.com Jan 19 Cover Reveals - Promo http://CoverReveals.blogspot.com Vampy And Racey – Promo, Review & Dream Cast http://vampyandracey.com/ Jan 20 Crystal's Many Reviewers - Promo & Review http://www.crystalsmanyreviewers.com Book Nook Nuts –Promo http://booknooknuts.blogspot.com/ Deal Sharing Aunt - Promo www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com
January 11, 2015
Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Computer Love Inc. II: Gestation by @ComputerLoveInc
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Computer Love Inc. II: Gestation
Computer Love Inc. Series
Book II
Kurt and Jessica Hansen
Genre: Science Fiction
ISBN: 978-0989068338
ASIN: B00O05VR6C
Number of pages: 215
Word Count: 46,095
Cover Artist: Steven J. Catizone
Book Description:
After the sudden deaths of two previous Computer Love Inc. CEOs, Marius takes control of the company. Embracing the talents of his godson, John, and his best friend, Zak, he hires the boys to oversee the Companion Services Division.
Marius refines his breakthrough technology, the Brain Machine Download, and as a result, creates his double, M2, as the prototype. Together, they ignite the future of
Computer Love Inc. by acquiring an elite team of scientists to expand the company’s technological boundaries. Meanwhile, Marius struggles with the government’s demands for a clandestine initiative - the Secret Service Companion.
Between the looming government presence and the overwhelming force behind his new team of inventors, can Marius survive the outcome of his own creations?
“So, Marius, I’m pleased, as I’m sure you must be, that the download between you and I went so well.”
The remark was sudden and bewildering.
“Yes, I am also pleased…” Marius paused. “What brings that up, M2? Is there something you feel we need to improve upon?”
“No, actually, I don’t think that at all. In fact, I think the process and aftermath have proven to be extremely fruitful, don’t you?”
“Well, yes… But then, what is it?”
“I just recalled an idea we had, that’s all,” M2 said.
“’We’ had an idea?”
“Well, as you know, to say that we think alike would be an understatement.” M2 paused and allowed Marius to have a laugh. “So obviously your knowledge of robotics resides not only within you, but within me as well. I know you’ve thought about it, the possibility to help the company pounce into the next generation. What if, say, we were to make a team of Companions, not unlike myself, created from experts in different fields? For example… We could use that famous technology instructor, the woman from Advance Propulsion Labs who’s won awards for all of those groundbreaking projects they’ve done recently, or even that metal-loving genius who combines materials recovered from asteroids with titanium and such. It would be a team of biorobotic and propulsion brilliance with unlimited potential!”
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
Jess says: I always wanted to writer, even since childhood. My co-author and father wrote songs for many years and one song he wrote lead to the creation of the Computer Love Inc. trilogy.
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
Jess says: I first considered myself a writer in high school, when I began writing for the school magazine. In college, I continued writing and became a reporter for my university’s newspaper. Then, I began writing the Computer Love Inc. series with my father, at which point we truly both began to consider ourselves actual “writers.” Seeing the finished product in its e-book and paperback formats helped to solidify this notion.
How long did it take to get your first book published?
As we are indie writers and were novices at the time, it took about a year in total, including the time it took research self-publishing a novel. Many sessions reading info from The Creative Penn, Joanna Penn’s website, and digesting The essential Guide to Getting Your Book Published by Arielle Eckstut and David Henry Sterry helped us gain knowledge of the process. We were like sponges, sucking up every bit of info we could to learn about the best way to move forward. All in all, it was just part of the fun.
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
Kurt has worked in the aerospace industry for over 30 years, and Jessica is a newspaper reporter and freelance writer.
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
Computer Love Inc. II: Gestation
A biorobotics boom, a technologically advanced company; characters that experience turmoil as the repercussions of their creations challenge humanity’s boundaries
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
We are self-published indie authors. We published the first novel in the series, Computer Love Inc., on Amazon as an eBook, and later, as a paperback through Createspace. We also uploaded it to Barnes and Noble as well as Smashwords. We self-published the second novel on amazon as an eBook and paperback. It is also available as an eBook through Barnes and Noble.
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
The first book was long in the making. As a songwriter and musician, Kurt wrote a song many years ago titled Computer Love. It is actually a youtube video that can be viewed by accessing our website at www.computerloveinc.com and clicking on the music tab. The novel started out as a story outline, which was actually intended as a rock opera. As Kurt was writing the book, Jess graduated college with a BA in English, and she took the story and added her magic to it.
The second book took less than a year to complete.
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
We are currently working on the third installment of the Computer Love Inc. series, and we expect to self-publish it sometime before the summer of 2015.
What genre would you place your books into?
Science Fiction, Action/Adventure, and/or Mystery.
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
The idea comes from a song that Kurt wrote called Computer Love.
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?
Zak and Marius are our favorite characters. Zak can be a bit wild and boyish at times, partially due to his youthful mentality and behavior. He is also unexpectedly brilliant.
Marius is among our favorites, as he is the mad scientist type with a quirky personality. We have had so much fun coming up with sayings for Marius along the way!
Living in the heads of these two while writing is something Jess and I have enjoyed together and it is really cool to be that close to a co-author that is just as engrained in the creation of the characters. We have had many conversations and loved every second of it.
How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?
Kurt has been writing songs since he was 16. He started writing the first novel back in 2005 with the intent to create an outline for a rock opera. He enjoyed the writing so much that the idea of creating a novel became intriguing to him. Among Kurt’s favorite authors are Hemmingway and Jimmy Buffett.
Jess has been an avid reader since she first learned what a book was. She immediately fell in love with writing and continued studying English right up to the point when she graduated from college with a BA in the subject.
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
Kurt always sits at his computer downstairs in our music room. The walls are littered with guitars hanging as if it were a music shop. A set of drums takes up too much room, when combined with amplifiers, recording equipment, and a small upright piano.
Jess usually is at her desk in her room but as she prefers the laptop, she can be mobile as well. Her room is full of books which rotate out when new ones are added. A coffee mug full of hazelnut coffee, or sometimes a tall glass of iced coffee, usually accompanies her setting.
Neither of really listen to music when we write - we usually find it too distracting. We are definitely music lovers, but we prefer quietness while we write.
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
Yes, we adore reviews! They have been very positive, and some have been constructive, which we also appreciate. We love to hear what our readers think and are very grateful all of the reviews we have received!
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?
The title was in place before the book was conceived. However, for a while we really struggled with changing it. Finally we decided to add Inc. to the title to reflect the biorobotics company the books are named after, Computer Love Inc.
How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?
We used California as our setting because we are familiar with the shore scene, and two of the main characters, Zak and John, are both surfers. Also, as Computer Love Inc. is a bio robotics company, California was a perfect setting for a futuristic, hi-tech company.
The characters were fun to create. In the second book we needed to add more characters to fit the storyline and creating Shonda and Anna was a great way to inject a female perspective to the characters. We always have a list of a bazillion names that we like, so we just wind up picking whichever names suit our characters best. The process can take a while. Here’s a fun fact: Marius was originally named, Jake but that’s our rescue dog’s name and we didn’t feel like it was a great fit with the other monosyllabic names in the story. Kurt got the idea for the name Marius, from the god of Mars, so we replaced “Jake” after the first story was already complete.
Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?
We like to have the place and characters’ names finalized before we get started writing. In the first installment of the series, Computer Love Inc., Marius was originally called Jake. We changed it while proofing the copy before sending it out for edits. From then on it was so difficult to remember that during rewrites, and even into the second book, we caught ourselves typing “Jake” rather than Marius. It was great to catch each other in conversation when discussing our next thought, we’d say, “Hey, you just said Jake - his name is Marius!”
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
We like to have the basis of the personality in place before writing, but one of the great things about writing fiction is that characters can develop in any direction you want them to as you go. As we added many more characters in the second book, we wanted to have the personalities understood so we could interact knowing their idiosyncrasies. Sometimes, we do find that the characters’ personalities tend to reveal themselves all on their own as the narrative progresses.
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..")
We love this question!
We open the book with a quote from Albert Einstein. “Concern for man and his fate must always form the chief interest of all technical endeavors. Never forget this in the midst of your diagrams and equations.”
The entire series examines the moral dilemma of exceeding our technology and the underlying effect it will have on humanity. The characters are faced with many situations in which morals become nebulous.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
For both of us…paperback. Jess loves the aroma of a book store as much as fresh brewed coffee!
What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once?
Kurt’s favorite is The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway. He loves the fact that it tells the story of a fisherman, because he, too, has loved to fish for all of his life.
Jess cannot choose one favorite book - it’s an almost impossible question for a book lover to answer. Among her favorites are A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers, Night Film by Marisha Pessl, and Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn.
Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?
Absolutely. So many readers have told us that they would love to see this as a movie. Our favorite book to movie transfers are The Harry Potter series.
Your favorite food is?
Kurt likes grilled chicken sandwiches.
Jess likes anything in the vegetarian family, but is especially fond of the veggie burritos from one of her favorite restaurants, Taco Hombre.
Your favorite singer/group is?
Kurt says that’s a particularly tough question, because as a musician he has so many favorites and influences. In particular, he likes Gavin Rossdale, Neil Young, and Green Day.
Jess likes Zac Brown Band, Miranda Lambert, and Mumford & Sons.
Your favorite color is?
Kurt: blue
Jess: purple
Your favorite Author is?
We have both been influenced by the works of Ray Bradbury, Aldous Huxley, and George Orwell, all of whom have tackled the genre of science fiction in groundbreaking ways. While we both cite these authors for inspiring us to take on sci-fi, here are a few of our individual favorites:
Kurt - Arthur C. Clarke, for his imaginative science fiction work, Jimmy Buffett, for his brilliant storytelling abilities, and Ernest Hemingway, for his direct style and ability to masterfully capture the life of a fisherman.
Jess - There are far too many to list, but here are a few: Gillian Flynn and Tana French, for crafting complex psychological tales, Charlotte Perkins Gilman and Virginia Woolf for their ability to examine gender issues through writing, Dave Eggers, for his unique stream-of-consciousness style, and David Sedaris, whose satire never disappoints.
Kurt and Jessica Hansen reside in northern New Jersey . Kurt has worked in the aerospace electronics industry for over three decades and enjoys the outdoors, writing, and composing music. Kurt is easily recognized with a guitar in his lap, a pencil in his mouth, and a piece of paper in front of him.
Jessica graduated from Montclair State University, summa cum laude, with a B.A. in English. Her favorite pastimes include reading, running and spending time with her family. She can usually be found with a book in one hand and a hazelnut coffee in the other.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Computer-Love-Inc/396920320362031
twitter: @ComputerLoveInc
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7134845.Kurt_Jessica_Hansen
Cover Reveal: Perfect For Her - City Lights Series # 2 by @Kathleenwrites
Presented by:
Perfect For Her - City Lights Series # 2 by Kathleen Ann Gallagher Audience: Adult - Genre: Contemporary romance / Formats: E-book and Paperback / Publisher: Beau Coup Publishing - Expected Date of Publishing: 26 Jan 2015
Energetic and motivated Angela Carnes landed her dream job in NYC, as an editor for a news show and she loves it. Her career is going much better than her love life. After a break-up with Mr. Wrong she’s determined to leave the past behind. Angela didn’t expect the best man for her friend’s wedding to be so damn hot. Dr. Eric Bradley has a body to die for, a dynamite personality, and he’s recently partnered with a medical team. What not to want? Eric is determined to have it all. He graduated from medical school top of his class, bought and renovated a house, and landed a spot in an established family practice. It is finally the time to get back into the dating world, IF the woman he wants sticks around when she learns about his situation at home. Angela and Eric discover the passion between them during the wedding preparations. Their attraction is hard to deny… Angela finds herself lost in Eric’s passionate embrace. But after the reception everything wilts. Will she be able to step aside while Eric honors his family obligations or will the lonely nights and broken promises force Angela to leave behind the man she knows is…Perfect For Her?
A day that started out in a frenzy had turned out to be unbelievable. Eric picked up the leather case left by the waiter and signed the bill. Angela’s stomach flipped as she anticipated the rest of the evening. She’d already been wrapped in his arms, and she imagined what it’d be like to go a step further tonight. He brought out a side of her she kept under locks with other men. His sensuality came across loud and clear. The way he moved, his intense stare, and his deep voice, aroused her in a way she hadn’t felt in a long time. Angela couldn’t stop fantasizing about running her fingers along his chest, down to his stomach, and around his muscular thighs. He made her feel sexy, and she enjoyed her erotic daydreams. It usually took her longer to be intimate with a man. She’d been shy and reserved. Maybe it was from being burned by a men in the past. There was no denying her urge to be close to Eric. “Are you ready to leave?” She tilted her head and nodded. Angela folded her napkin and stood. Her handsome date got up, put his arm out and reached for her hand. She loved all of the attention. It felt as if she floated on air. Eric’s strong fingers cradled hers as if it was something they did all the time, and she welcomed the gesture. “Do you mind?” he asked. “No, it’s nice.” His touch was gentle and she imagined how it’d feel all over her body. Hoping he didn’t read her mind, she lifted her purse over her shoulder. She’d let him be the one to make the first move and by the way things were going, she had a hunch she’d be in his arms before their date was over. The evening held the possibility of a romantic involvement with Dr. Eric Bradley and she couldn’t remember when she’d had such strong desires. “It’s a great night to take a walk. How about it? My car is in a nearby parking lot.” He gave her hand a gentle squeeze. “I’d like that.”
Savannah’s Journey - City Lights # 1 Pages: 216 pages - ASIN: B00KPIPUSE - Publishing Date: June 3, 2014
Savannah Mason, the career minded journalist, spends long hours at work, hoping to take the spot as anchor. She continues to fight for independence and refuses to allow her demanding father to take control of her life, despite his wish for her to take over his surgical practice. On her darkest day twelve years ago, she agreed to give her baby up for adoption. Now, on her daughter’s birthday, a chance encounter gives Savannah an opportunity to explore a corner of her heart she thought was lost forever. Rob Sinclair a renowned surgeon and NY Times best-selling author has a new release and needs a promo spot on the television show, The News Stop. When Savannah gets to conduct the interview over the senior reporter, a door opens to her future. However, first she must face the unsettled issues in her life, before she is free to accept love. The last thing she wants is a relationship, especially one with a divorced, doctor who happens to have two small children. A man, who seems all wrong for her, slowly weaves himself into her heart. Can he accept her when he learns about her past? Rob’s commitment to climb the ladder of success and provide a good life for his family, keeps him on the road for days at a time. When he meets the assertive newswoman, desire and passion awaken his broken spirit. How will he ever be able to trust another woman? Savannah and Rob’s strong attraction is undeniable as they journey to a place where honesty and the power of forgiveness, can guide them both home. Will it be enough to heal the scars of the past and allow them another chance for love?
Barnes and Noble / Amazon / Goodreads
“Would you like to come inside for coffee or tea?” Savannah “I’d love to,” he answered without hesitation. Once at her doorstep, she fumbled for her keys. One part of her didn’t want the night to end. Rob followed behind her and broke the silence. “So, this is what the inside of a newswoman’s place looks like.” He glanced around. If only she’d straightened up earlier in the day. The dining room table looked like a cyclone hit it. Between the newspaper pile, junk mail, and paper plates you couldn’t even see the table. “I’ve been so busy lately.” “Tell me about it. My kids constantly complain how many hours I work. I’m lucky if I can spare a moment at the end of the day to myself.” The mention of his children reinforced the reason why she should put a halt to the playful flirtation. The wall she had set up to keep her safe from sorrow and guilt hit her in the face. She retreated to a safe place inside her heart, whenever she came close to a reminder of her past. Savannah was skilled at putting her feelings aside and instead put a smile on her face. “Sit down and make yourself comfortable. Do you prefer regular or decaf or how about organic green tea?” “Tea sounds good to me. Green tea carries health benefits, too.” “I’ll be right back.” How cute, a medical reference. A fresh brewed tea took a few minutes in the new system she’d purchased at a specialty shop. A bag of oatmeal cookies made with all natural ingredients came in handy and she reached for them along with the cups. When the tea was done, she put a few cookies on the tray and carried it to the living room. The last thing she expected was to play hostess. “Here you go.” She placed it down on the coffee table. Rob patted the spot next to him. “It’s time to relax. You’ve had a tiring day.” He took a few sips of tea and placed the mug down on a coaster. His doting words reminded her of the typical thing a doctor would say, but his caring nature appealed to her. With Rob sitting so close, her hands shook. They exchanged playful glances. Rob stood and went over to the sliding glass doors. “You have a great view from here.” She got up and slowly moved toward him. Her chest tightened with each step. As she approached him and admired his broad shoulders, it dawned on her he could be a candidate for People’s sexiest man alive. Control yourself. “I’m happy here,” she admitted. “I love it when the morning light shines on the water and it mimics fine pieces of crystal.” Rob slowly approached her. His gaze fixed on her, sent shivers from head to toe. Afraid of what might happen next, she turned away. They were too close for comfort. An electric energy surged between them. Before she could stop him, Rob reached for her and pulled her up against his chest. “You’re an amazing woman, Savannah.” His lips met hers and he cradled her head in his hands as if she was a precious jewel. It all happened so quickly, she didn’t have time to react. The warmth of his touch sent waves of heat down her stomach and in between her legs as the world stood still. When Rob’s hands moved slowly across her back, it took her to a level of arousal she never expected. She found herself spellbound by the feel of his rock hard body pressed up against her chest. All of the emotions she’d kept inside emerged when Rob held her tight. When they finally parted, she stood frozen in shock with her heart pounding and her ears ringing. His expression made him look as if he broke the law with his eyes practically popping out of his head. He quickly took a step back. “I don’t know what to say. I’m so sorry for my rude behavior.” “You weren’t rude. I didn’t stop you.”
Kathleen lives in New Jersey with her husband and their two dogs. She’s a registered nurse who works in an emergency room. Writing has been her passion since she was a young girl. Contemporary and paranormal romance are her favorites. She has three adult children and three lovable grandsons. Her favorite romantic getaway is Cape May, New Jersey. You might find Kathleen on a beach down the Jersey Shore, wearing a straw hat and sipping on an iced tea, as she dreams up her next romance novel.
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January 8, 2015
Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Victim Souls by @AndrewTerech
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Victim Souls
Andrew Terech
Genre: Supernatural Horror
ISBN-13: 978-0692330234
ISBN-10: 0692330232
ASIN: B00PEASG6Q
Number of pages: 386
Word Count: 91,000
Cover Artist: Brianna Strawn
Book Description:
Sometimes, only bad guys can beat the Devil…
The plan is simple: get the money and deliver the car. What could possibly go wrong?
What can’t?
Things start to go south when Sam Drake realizes that his brother Johnny is hiding something, a secret about Sam’s troubled childhood that goes beyond his most feverish nightmares…
Then Johnny’s girlfriend, Ash, starts sending Sam the kind of mixed signals that can only lead to big trouble…
As the trio of small time crooks falls deeper into an abyss of betrayal and violence, they will discover that the greatest danger they face is not of this world.
With everything he believes about himself and the world around him shattered, Sam will become the unlikely champion in a battle with true evil, a fight to save a soul that has already been forfeited to darkness.
His own.
Available at Amazon
The silver barrel of the Colt .45 glimmered in Johnny’s hand. The obese clerk behind the counter held his arms up, eyes darting to each of our faces. His brown-stained, white t-shirt clung to his sweaty man tits. Moisture dripped off his scraggly goatee onto his protruding gut. The ceiling fan above him worked hard, trying to cool down the un-air-conditioned, Arizona shit-hole that smelled like armpits and rotting cheese. A large bullet hole from Johnny’s warning shot sat two feet from the clerk’s head, along with the standard wall of cigarettes and liquor bottles acting as a reminder of the poor bastard’s purpose in life.
Johnny’s smirking mouth twitched with excitement. He had a scary look in his eyes—a man possessed with rage.
Ash clung to him, her blond hair draped over his shoulder. Her hand gently palmed his shaved head as she leaned toward the side of his face.
She whispered something in his ear.
Butterflies sliced the inside of my stomach with razor wings. This wasn’t the way we did things. We were escalating. Normally, I kept everyone cool, levelheaded. All control had gone out the window.
Simple Bob behind the counter sobbed, looking terrified. Part of me felt pity for the guy, but it was too late to turn back. “I don’t wanna be a part of no trouble, now,” he said. “Why don’t y’all take what ya need and go? Please, I got a family.” He glared at Ash. Four kids.”
Johnny cackled. “Family? You hear this guy, Sammy? He’s got a fuckin’ family.” Johnny gestured toward me. “That’s my family over there. My little brother. I practically raised the pecker. Parents were killed… come to think of it—by a fat, drunk piece of shit like you. So don’t talk to me about family.”
I glanced at the clock above the entrance—eight minutes had passed. “Johnny, come on man.”
Ash sneered at me. “Not now. This is grown up time. Go grab us some food or something.” Her dismissive tone dug into my nerves.
“Go fuck yourself!” I spat. The last thing I needed was that crazy bitch feeding Johnny’s frenzy.
“Quit it, bro. I got this,” Johnny said.
As usual he sided with the short jean shorts and tight, red tank top—a little cleavage and ass were all it took for him to forget about his own brother. “Get the cash and let’s go,” I said. “Stop messing around.”
Johnny glanced at me. “You think you could do better?”
I froze, unable to come up with a response, probably because I knew I couldn’t. Johnny took care of the hold-up. I collected the goods and kept us on point. That was our system, and it worked. Ash, on the other hand, was new to the mix. All she managed to do was waste time and get Johnny more amped than a rabid pit bull on cocaine. How he decided that was helpful, I have no idea. Things ran smooth before she stuck her pretty ass in the mix. Now instead of in-and-out with hands full of cash, we were wasting time scaring some poor, fat slob half to death. And for what, I wondered, shits and giggles?
I glanced back at the clock. Ten minutes in, and we were still dicking around. I started to tell Johnny our time was running out. From the corner of my eye, the clerk reached beneath the counter.
“Hey!” Ash shouted before I could react.
Johnny swung his arm, smacking the butt of the gun across the fat bastard’s face. “What did I tell you? Huh!”
The clerk stumbled back. The weight of his body slammed into the wall of cigarettes and cigars. He slid to the floor as dozens of boxes rained down around him.
My heart pounded. I took several deep breaths. We’d never had a close call like that before.
Ash pulled out her butterfly knife and flipped it open. “We need to deal with him.”
Johnny clenched his jaw as he leaned over the counter, pointing the gun. “Get up! Now!”
The blubbering man slowly rose up, his hands in the air, snot dripping from the pubes on his chin.
“What’s your name, buddy?” Johnny asked, switching to a calmer tone.
“T-T-Tony.”
With a big smile on his face, Johnny slammed his fist on the counter. “Tony! That’s a strong name. Like Tony fucking Soprano.”
Tony jumped and backed into the wall behind him again. His flabby arm knocked down a couple liquor bottles. He flinched as the glass shattered on the tile floor. I reminded myself to at least swipe some good booze when we were done.
Johnny grabbed the knife from Ash’s hand and gave her the gun. “Hold this for me, baby.”
I glanced at the clock—twelve minutes. “Bro, we’re coming up on fifteen. Forget him. You don’t have to do this.”
“We’re in the middle of nowhere. We’re fine! And for the record,” he twirled the blade in his hand, “I’ll do whatever the fuck I want!”
I’d had it with Johnny’s unchecked arrogance. He always screwed with people, but he didn’t hurt anyone unless he had to. Tony may have been a liability, but if we’d stuck to the plan it wouldn’t have come to this.
Thirteen minutes.
Ash put her arm around Johnny, resting the gun on his shoulder, conveniently pointing it at my face.
I took a step toward the counter, out of the line of fire. No way I trusted that bitch with a gun in her hand.
She flashed a smile in my direction.
“Put your hand out on the table.” Johnny said.
Tony extended his shaking arm. Johnny grabbed his wrist, pulled him forward, and slammed his hand onto the counter.
Tony yelped. “Please.”
My heart raced as my brother hovered the knife over Tony’s hand. “Come on bro…”
Johnny’s finger shot up, motioning me to be quiet. “Tony. I’m going to teach you a little lesson in trust.”
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
For most of my life, I didn’t exactly know what I wanted to be. What I can say is that as a child I was always drawn to creating stories. When I was a kid I used to play with action figures that I would develop complex storylines for, so detailed that it would often carry over for several weeks and reach a climactic end. We’re talking killing characters off, relationships, backstabbing amongst friends… that stuff got twisted.
When I hit college, I took a creative writing class and it was one of the few classes I actually had perfect attendance in. I considered majoring in English and pursuing a writing career but it didn’t seem like a pragmatic choice. Writing remained on my mind as a dream I’d like to accomplish “someday,” but it was my wife who pushed me to actually back up my words and write something, instead of talking about how much I’d like to be a writer.
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
I have trouble with this one. My family, friends, and supporters will often correct me when I say, “I’m trying to become a writer.” They tell me I already AM a writer. But I guess I don’t want to give myself that title until I put something out there that enough people actually read (whether they love it or hate it). I’m not entirely sure what defines “enough people” for me, but I suppose I’ll know it when it happens.
How long did it take to get your first book published?
I took the self-publishing route; I didn’t even try to send it to publishers. After a lot of research this felt like the best option for me. I may explore the more traditional route in the future, but I want to see how this self-publishing thing works out first. It did take me 4 years to write and complete the edits on the book, but that’s mostly because I was growing as a writer during that time and had to do many, many, many re-writes and modifications.
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
Yes. I have a fairly stable and successful career in the mental health field. Up until October 2014 I was the head administrator of an inpatient psychiatric facility. Now I’m working for the same company, taking the lead on the opening and implementation of 5 similar facilities nationwide.
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
Victim Souls. It’s a relentless, fast-paced, action-horror novel that has the reader rooting for the bad guys.
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
Self-published.
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
Well, this is my first whole novel. Given that it took me 4 years, I’m hoping that’s not the answer. I’m working on another novel now and I plan to get it out in 1 year. I did a lot of growing and learning while writing Victim Souls and this next one shouldn’t take me nearly as long. **I choose to amend this statement in two years when I’m halfway through my next book**
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
Expect more from the same genre. I pretty much only write horror. I’m toying with this science fiction thriller/horror concept I have, but we’ll see if that plays out. I have a lot of half-baked ideas that get me really excited because I think they’re brilliant then a few hours pass and I move on to something that actually works. Low self-esteem has saved me a lot of wasted time.
What genre would you place your books into?
Definitely horror. I tend to slant toward the supernatural because that’s what I personally find the scariest. However, I’ve written several short stories that don’t have any supernatural elements. As a true student of the genre, my writing doesn’t pull any punches. Don’t expect PG-13 material. I commit.
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
There would’ve been no other choice. I am a horror fanatic. The majority of the media I consume is within the horror genre. I do like to throw in a bit of comedy from time to time, but I don’t have the chops to put a whole novel together. I’m from the George Costanza school of comedy: throw in a funny one-liner here and there, get a laugh and walk out on top. People will think I’m funny, even though I’m actually a comedic moron.
I suppose I could write drama, but I think it would feel like homework. My favorite part about writing horror is when I can freak myself out.
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?
From Victim Souls, it’s definitely the character Riley. When I created him he was originally going to have a small role in a chapter or two but I fell in love with the character. It was this character that made me go back to the beginning and do some major re-writes to make him an integral part of the plot. People that have read it are all in agreement with me; he’s most people’s favorite. He does fun things like giving an inspirational speech centered on a glory hole analogy. When I do write the sequel, readers can expect a lot more of Riley. He’s just so damn fun to write for.
How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?
I’ve been writing since 2008. As I stated above, my wife pretty much pushed me over the edge and got me to start. Once I did, I fell in love with the process and haven’t looked back.
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
Not overly specific. I can’t really listen to music when I write because I get caught up listening to the song lyrics and get distracted. Typically, I need a quiet place (usually somewhere in my house) and I tend to get caught up in it for several hours. I will say that the best work I did on Victim Souls was when I rented a hotel room by myself and holed up for four days with writing as my only task.
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
I don’t have many reviews at this point, but I’ve read those that are there and the ones from my short stories. I have thick skin and I lack the self-esteem for delusions of grandeur. Some people will like the book, some may love it, and there will be plenty of hate. It’s the nature of creating something.
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?
I usually start with a working title before I even type a word. Sometimes that title sticks, other times I find inspiration in the writing process and change it.
How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?
Place names are often arbitrary or convenient. I do like to use real city names or names of stores that I feel best fit the tone but I don’t really have a consistent methodology.
I like to use names of people I know or have encountered in my life when I write ancillary characters. The main characters’ names often come extemporaneously because I can’t really decide on a good name and I want to get the story ideas on the page. Then, the name often ends up sticking. Sam, the main character and narrator in Victim Souls, is a perfect example of this. I just chose that name randomly with every intention of thinking of something better but I never did.
Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?
I almost always create the character and/or place before the name. The name doesn’t really matter that much in my opinion. I can call my main character Captain Asshole—as long as I make him interesting as hell, I believe I can get the reader to buy in.
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
I always have a solid personality map in my mind for every character I create. The vast majority of my writing is dependent on my characters. I feel like the current marketplace is saturated with content, so investing too much time in an “original” plot is often a fruitless effort. I choose to invest in vivid, interesting characters that the reader will enjoy, regardless of 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..")
Nothing intentional. I’m sure that I infused some of my personal beliefs and values in my characters, but I tried to stay away from the allegorical stuff. If anything readers may pick up on some of my personal challenges with faith, religion and being agnostic. I toyed with the idea of incorporating concepts from Dante’s Inferno, but decided not to. I still may revisit that idea someday in another novel.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
I like eBooks a lot, but I don’t have any strong preferences.
What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once?
The Lost by Jack Ketchum. Ketchum is my favorite author. He’s brilliant at writing horror stories that are rooted in reality. I actually prefer supernatural horror, which is why I love his writing so much. His style is so effective at building tension and fear. He can do it through describing mundane life experiences or delving into the darkest parts of humanity. Either way, I’ve never read an author as effective at writing this type of horror and The Lost is the best example of this.
Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?
Not at all. However, I think with the new style of television shows like Dexter and Game of Thrones we’re seeing a much better translation of the written work onto the screen. But movies are too short and limited to do a novel justice. Even when they make multiple films, it always seems to get a little bit of Hollywood sprinkled into it, and even a little bit is way too much. See the Hobbit Trilogy.
Worst: Horns a novel by Joe Hill, recently made into a VOD film starring Harry Potter. I loved this book, but the movie was just terrible. It was a perfect example of what happens when you have to cram a 400+ page novel into under 2 hours. You just lose too much of what makes it great.
Best: The Exorcist by William Peter Bladdy. Can’t argue with how prolific the film is. But even as the best film rendition, it does the book an injustice by being the primary medium for the source material—many more people have seen the movie than read the book. Yet, the book is astoundingly better, and that’s saying a lot for what is widely accepted as on of the best horror films ever made. If you’re reading this and you liked The Exorcist film, go read the book. Trust me on this one.
Your favorite food is?
Bacon. Everything tastes better with bacon.
Your favorite singer/group is?
My absolute favorite is Kevin Devine. But it’s a close finish between a triad of interconnected musical groups:
Kevin Devine (and the Goddamn Band)
Brand New
Manchester Orchestra
I’ve seen two of the three play together multiple times, and it’s literally a dream of mine to someday see all three in one show. It will happen.
Your favorite color is?
I’d say black, but that’s technically every color all in one, so I’m going to go with Red. Yeah I know: A horror writer who loves Red and Black. I’m all about the clichés.
Your favorite Author is?
Jack Ketchum, but I’m all in on Joe Hill. He’s riding a close second and about one more awesome book from taking the crown. I’m sure he’ll be excited to hear that when he reads this. Sorry Jack.
Andrew’s a horror fiction writer who is also a massive fan of the genre. He’s been writing short stories and working on his novel for over 5 years. He has several short stories published, as well as some editing credits. He moderates a writing workshop in Phoenix, AZ where he’s been exposed to many different forms of fiction, which have broadened his influences. He aims to write stories that creep out his readers, while offering well-developed, rich characters they can sink their teeth into. He’s also a fan of experimenting with form and structure to create something uniquely my own.
Andrew grew up on Long Island in New York, and has lived in Arizona for the past 7 years. His professional background is in psychology where he’s carved out a nice career for himself. However, writing has always been his passion.
Currently, he’s hard at work, developing additional content to publish. He hopes to find an audience that loves the genre, and is up for a good scare.
http://www.andrewterechwriting.com
Twitter @AndrewTerech
