Karen Swart's Blog, page 37

Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Illegal Lane Change by @angelmccoy

 

SilkWords is the go-to source for interactive romance and erotic fiction.

With gorgeous custom covers and a clean, sophisticated design, the SilkWords site offers a secure, upscale reading environment. In addition to content on their web site, they offer stories for purchase in the standard e-book formats.

SilkWords is owned and operated by a full-time mom with a background in genetics and an RWA RITA-nominated, multi-published sci-fi romance author.

Their technology guy and site designer was the founder of Microsoft Xbox Live.

SilkWords features two formats that allow readers to choose how the stories will proceed.

Pick Your Path:

Will she or won't she? With which man (or woman) in which location? With Pick Your Path romance, you decide. Romance and branched fiction are made for each other, like picking your favorite flavor of ice cream...positions, partners, and paraphernalia, oh my!

Reader Vote:

Readers vote at choice points and decide how the story will continue. These stories are a great way for readers and authors to connect. It’s exciting to be part of a developing story!

https://www.silkwords.com/

Illegal Lane Change

Angel Leigh McCoy

Genre: Romance

Publisher: SilkWords

ISBN: 978-1-941847-37-4

Cover Artist: Indie Designz

Book Description:

Chicago lawyer, Adele London, has worked hard to get where she is, but when her misogynist boss makes it clear she won't be allowed to excel, she decides she needs a change. With the help of her best friend Karen, Adele considers her options, and only one solution keeps rising to the top: the radical one. It will require that Adele forego societal conventions and stretch into new territory. Once she commits, there's no going back! The time has come for her to make an illegal lane change.

Reader Vote Story at www.silkwords.com

Installment 1: November 29

Installment 2: December 20

Installment 3: January 10

Installment 4: January 31

 

At 2:04 A.M., Adele London left her office. Her briefcase felt even heavier than usual, filled as it was with files for the next day's court case—a divorce that was threatening to stretch out into legal Hell. She carried her high heels in her other hand, to save her sore feet, and made her way through the deserted law offices of Berger, Dachina, and Smith toward the elevators. The halls were long, lined with dark, empty offices. There were only the emergency lights to illuminate her barren path.

Adele appreciated the silence. It was one of the reasons she liked working late at night. During the day, everyone wanted something from her. Five minutes wouldn't go by before someone was in her doorway or emailing her. In the wee hours, she could have her meltdowns and no one would see. Waiting for the elevator, the tears came, following the unhappy thoughts that dogged her.

Earlier on the phone, Adele's best friend had asked, "When was the last time you had a vacation?" Karen always knew just what to say. "Have you even taken any time off since Tom died?" Karen was the only one who spoke so frankly with Adele about her late husband. Most people shied away from the topic—as if it were dangerous or distasteful.

Adele had admitted to Karen that she hadn't had a real vacation in five years. She'd needed to lose herself in her work for so long. But, something in her had snapped that morning and work was no longer the sanctuary it had been. Her boss, Mr. Jacobs, had threatened to fire her if she didn't approach the divorce case his way. After all she'd done to prove herself at the company, he couldn't let her make the call. Adele had reached her limit with sixty-hour weeks, snooty lawyers, bitchy clients, and misogynist bosses who used emotional blackmail to get their way. She'd just had it.

"Karen, I need to talk to someone." That was at 2:00 A.M. By 2:30, Adele was knocking on Karen's door.

Much to her surprise, a man answered. He was tall and well-proportioned, and Adele could tell because he wore nothing more than a pair of tight blue jeans, zipped but unbuttoned. His dark hair had just a touch of curl, bed-ruffled and thick. His skin looked warm with an even creaminess, naturally tanned.

"You must be Adele," he said, voice quiet and rich.

Adele could only nod.

"Come in. Karen will be out in a second. I made coffee." The man stepped aside to let Adele pass. He smelled of sex and coconut. "I'm Adam."

Of course, he was. "I'm Adele." Awkward. "But you knew that. Hi. I'd love some coffee. Thanks." She bent to set her briefcase against the wall, but couldn't take her eyes off him even for that.

The smile that registered in his eyes but not on his mouth had caught Adele's full attention. Brown, those eyes had the coloring of a dark ale—Adele's favorite drink.

"Let me take your coat," he offered and stepped behind her. His hands at her collar were gentle and uncommonly warm after the chill of the night air. Under any other circumstance, Adele would have thought he was trying to seduce her with his courtesy, but she knew that wasn't the case. Her own loneliness made her vulnerable to his touch, his nearness, his gorgeous looks.

#

What happens next? At Silkwords.com, you choose where this story goes. Until December 9, 2014, you can read the rest of the introduction and cast your vote for how you want "Illegal Lane Change" to unfold. Visit <a href="http://www.silkwords.com" target="_blank">Silkwords.com</a> to advise Adele on how to proceed!

 

 

Character Name:  Adele London

Character Bio: Adele London spent most of her life in Chicago, playing by the rules. She was a good girl, went to law school, and married the man everyone said was right for her. None of it made her happy. The past six months have been one disappointment after another as she discovered—at her husband’s funeral—that he’d been cheating on her, and now her boss won’t let her handle her latest case as she sees fit. She’s tired of pleasing everyone else and wants to do something for herself for a change.

 

 

Describe yourself what is your worst and best quality?

My best and my worst qualities come from the fact that I had a strict upbringing that instilled the desire to be a “good girl” in me. I followed all the rules growing up. Some people hated me for that, and some abused my trust. I still find it hard not to take other people’s feelings into consideration before my own, but I’m learning to be more selfish. If I’ve learned anything over the years, it’s that I have to take care of myself because no one else will.

What is the one thing you wish other people knew about you?

Oh, they’re going to find out. I’m sick of being a doormat. The people in my life are going to learn that I actually do have a spine—and I know how to use it.

What is your biggest secret something no one knows about?

I’ve always wanted a child. For as long as I can remember, even as I was actively pursuing a career that I knew would consume me. I gave up family for my career, and it hurt more than I ever cared to admit.

What are you most afraid of?

Spiders! And getting sucked into another bad relationship. The last thing I need is an untrustworthy and controlling man. I’m sealing my heart away so I won’t be vulnerable any more.

What do you want more than anything?

Someone to love, who loves me back unconditionally. A child will do that. We’ll be a great team, just the two of us. The more I think about it, the more excited I get.

What is your relationship status?

Single, single, single! Well, technically, widowed. My husband of several years was killed in a car accident. I learned at his funeral that he had kept a lover on the side. I’ll never marry again.

How would you describe your sense of fashion?

I love clothes! I like to feel beautiful, even when in a professional suit for a court date. I suppose you could say I’m a sensual dresser. The feel of the fabric is important to me. There’s nothing better than a soft skirt brushing against newly shaved legs.

How much of a rebel are you?

I’m trying to be more of one. Maybe I should get a jaunty hat. I hope I’m not ruining my life.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?

Graduating from law school was the biggest challenge I’ve ever overcome. But my greatest claim to fame is that I worked my ass off and passed the bar exam on the first try. I had something to prove back then.

What is your idea of happiness?

I’m still defining that. Everything I thought would make me happy didn’t. It’s time for me to do some hard thinking about what would truly make me happy.

What is your current state of mind?

A little bit terrified and a little exhilarated. I’m embarking on a new life, taking risks without a safety net. Oh, God!

What is your most treasured possession?

I’ve been reading a baby book, to learn all about motherhood. I keep it in a book cover so no one will see what it is, but I browse through it often. I carry it everywhere I go, in my purse. There’s so much to know, and I want to do this right. Just looking at the pictures in it makes my heart sing.

What is your most marked characteristic?

I’m told I have piercing eyes, especially when I’m angry. Lots of people have remarked on them.

What is it that you most dislike?

Liars. Keep away from me if you’re one of them.

Which living person do you most despise?

Does it have to be someone living? If not, my late husband. If so, then I suppose his lover fits the bill. I only met her once, beside his coffin, and I’ll never get the sight of her telling me their secret out of my mind.

What is your greatest regret?

I regret marrying while I was in college. Okay, I regret marrying at all. I like to think, sometimes, about how my life would have been if I hadn’t.

What is the quality you most like in a man?

Honesty. Don’t be coy, just tell me what you’re thinking. No secrets allowed.

What is the quality you most like in a woman?

The same. Though I’m rarely attracted to another woman, I did dabble in college. All my treasured friends have a frankness about them that I admire.

Who is your favorite hero in fiction?

Tony Stark (Iron Man). Yes, comics are one of my guilty pleasures. Stark is honest and doesn’t care who he angers. He pulls no punches, and he’s loyal to his girlfriend. He’s a truly heroic figure.

Which living person do you most admire?

I’d have to say my friend Karen. She grabs life by the balls in a way I wish I could. I’m trying to be more like her.

If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?

I’d be less worried about what others think of me. How sad is that?

What is your motto?

What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger.

 

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Angel Leigh McCoy writes short fiction, publishes a magazine, edits anthologies, and serves as the Horror Writers Association’s bumbling webmaster. Among her babies is the podcast at WilyWriters.com, the DEEP CUTS anthology, AnotherDimension Magazine, and bytes of her own fiction scattered here and there in the world. She’s employed as a narrative designer at ArenaNet, spinning the Living World yarn of Guild Wars 2.

In her spare time, she’s the mastermind behind the indie game projects at Games Omniverse. She began her career designing story and gameplay for White Wolf, Wizards of the Coast, FASA, and other RPG companies. At Xbox.com, she was the game reviewer known as Wireless Angel. Angel shares a padded cave with Boo, Simon, and Lapis Lazuli (kitties) in Seattle, where the long, dark winters feed her penchant for all things spooky and cozy. SFWA & HWA pro member.

Blog: http://angelmccoy.com

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/angelmccoy (@angelmccoy)

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/angel.mccoy

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16152.Angel_Leigh_McCoy

Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Bear and Bear Alike by @mariemasonwrite

 

 

Bear and Bear Alike

Blackwood Brothers

Book Three

Marie Mason

Genre: paranormal, romantic erotica,

bbw romance, werewolves, shifters

Date of Publication: November 17, 2014

Word Count: 70,000

Book Description:

Ryland and Ryker Blackwood were twins. Identical, thigh clenching bear shifter twins who had no trouble getting women into their beds. Or bed. They’d shared just about everything in life, even women.

The scent of the cat shifter they found on their construction site was driving both Blackwood brothers crazy with lust. Or was it? Every time they thought they were getting closer to finding the woman who would be their mate, one of their bears backed away. The hot and cold feeling they were getting from their animals was confusing the shit out of them.

Was the cat shifter meant for one of them or both of them?

They were mates, but mates who knew almost nothing about each other. Ryland knew better than to rush her, so he eased into the kiss, tilting her head and aligning their mouths. His bear huffed at each hitch and shudder of her breath as he deepened their connection. His senses were attuned to every subtle movement her body made in response to his touch and he gloried in the shiver that ran though her and the softening of her body as she gave into her needs and leaned into him.

He finally gave into the temptation and swept his tongue into her mouth to taste. He sipped at her mouth, letting the flavors of his mate collide on his tongue, ensuring that he would never forget her. He’d thought he’d known what to expect. Strength. She had that in spades. Caution. Sweetness. Innocence. Passion. Orange blossoms and honey. Her taste exploded in his mouth.

The heat grew with each velvet slide of his tongue over hers. He smiled into the kiss when her hand rose and fisted in his hair. He obeyed the command behind the gesture to deepen the kiss, to drive them both a little crazy, and closer to the edge. The edge of no return where he took his mate, fucked her wet pussy and branded her as his.

She offered no resistance as he plundered her mouth. He thrust his tongue between her parted lips and took what he wanted. He licked at the roof of her mouth, skimming the along the row of her teeth before dipping down deep inside again. Finally, her tongue came out to tangle with his.

Emma knew she would soon be a goner. The feel of his mouth and tongue was doing wonderful things to her body. Her pussy moistened and her nipples pebbled and hardened. Goodness, how she wanted him. And she couldn’t have him. She tried to ease away, to break off the kiss but he growled and she sank back into his heat.

Why couldn’t she have this moment? This night?

Body shaking, she pulled back from the kiss. Kiss, huh. That was too tame of a description for what they had just shared. His lips were wet and moist, and redden. She knew if she looked in a mirror, hers would look the same. She licked her bottom lip, her tongue finding the slight cut where he had scraped it with his teeth.

“I, umm.” Not only did her legs feel like wet noodles, but her brain was fried from the heat of their passion. Ryker’s smile was smug. No doubt he could smell the arousal he’d created as well as see the effect of his touch. Her eyes were dilated and her body was shivering. She wanted him and he knew it. He continued to smile as he ushered her up the stairs. Two more flights and they were in front of the apartment.

Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?

At some point, I think writing goes hand and hand with reading. If you are a reader, you already have a vivid imagination, so…sometimes it leads you down the road to writing. I’ve never been fulfilled with any job I’ve had – which has been mostly clerical in nature. Now that I can actually write a story and know someon is reading them, it’s the most fulfilling thing in the world.

When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?

Still, don’t, really. I guess I consider myself a writer—but not a full time author. I am so chicken**** it’s not funny. I just can’t seem to step off the ledge and say take this (day) job and shove it. Maybe 2015 will be that year.

How long did it take to get your first book published?

Thanks to the indie publishing platform, not that long. Now, getting the courage to publish that first book was another story. It took years. I had written, many, many books before I said—let’s do this baby!

Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?

I’m in “administration” – a fancy word for a secretary. It’s boring, repetitive, but does allow me to daydream sometimes.

What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?

My latest book is Bear and Bear Alike, the story of Ryland and Ryker Blackwood, twin bear shifters whose mate is giving them a run for their money. Can I use the word hot twenty times in order to describe it?

Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?

I self-publish. Don’t get me wrong, I’d love to see my book on the shelves of a bookstore, but, self-publishing is very rewarding and downright freeing. Who is going to nix my idea of having a photojournalist as my hero—or a heroine? (A big occupational no-no back in the 1980s). The only one who is going to tell me that wasn’t a good idea is the reader—and I’ll listen to a reader over an editor any day of the week.

How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?

Well… Bear and Bear Alike are about four months overdue. In a good month, I an write about 30,000, in a bad month…I don’t write at all. I’ve had a couple of those months this past year. Bear and Bear Alike did become a longer book tha I anticipated. It is a little over 70,000 words.

What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?

I’m sticking to paranormal for now. I love me some alpha males and I love the paranormal genre. Add a little heat and I’m in heaven. They say write what you know, I’m writing what I like to read. Now, that’s not to say I don’t like cowboys and CEOs. Wouldn’t want any of my characters to get jealous.

What genre would you place your books into?

Paranormal…erotica? I’m really confused about the erotica part right now. Is it the language alone that makes a book erotic? Or the situations?

What made you decide to write that genre of book?

Love to read it, why not write it?

Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?

All three of the Blackwood brothers are my favorite… but if I were honest, I’d say Ryker is my favorite. He’s darker, broodier…and a little kinky (is spanking still considered kinky?)

How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?

I’ve been writing well over fifteen years. I guess I inspired myself to write. It’s a dream I’ve had for a very long time and I finally was in a place I could devote my free time (laugh with me here, ladies, cause who the heck has free time) to finally developing and following through with a story.

Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?

When my boss doesn’t catch me, I’m usually sitting in my office chair, listening to Pandora country music (Christmas music right now) or I’ve got my laptop on the couch trying to ignore my husband and the King of Queens rerun playing in the background.

Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?

Yep. I don’t like some of them, (especially if they say they don’t like the story line or the characters, these are my babies after all) but I take them all to heart and use them to improve my writing. I want to write better and write what readers want to read.

Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?

I usually get story idea first and the title usually just comes (giggle). My husband actually came up with Bear and Bear Alike.

How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?

I’ve actually started a list of names. If I happen upon one that I like, I try to add it before I forget it. Same with last names – those are a bitch to decide on. As for names of places, sometimes I make them up, sometimes I actually google the state and find the name of some obscure small town. I’ve never strayed too far from the borders of my home state, so I don’t feel comfortable writing about really famous places that readers might know a heck of a lot about. I figure small town living is small town living.

Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?

Sometimes I start a story with no character names in mind. I’ll use blanks or Joe or Sam and then do the replace and find feature later. It’s really exciting when the name kind of comes to you after you’ve written about the character for a while. Too bad, we can’t name our children that way – hand out with them to see if they are a Joe or a Cooper.

Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?

Yes. Most of my characters will always be shy, quiet, and curvy—with a splash of sass. Even when I read, I look for books with those same types of characters—a woman who hasn’t quite discovered her self-worth.

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..")

The moral of all my stories is…everyone deserves love and happiness.

Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?

I use to be a diehard paperback girl – I have shelves and shelves of paperback books I have “kept” over the years. I was reluctant at first to try the ereaders (sounds stupid now doesn’t it?). But now, I have to say I love them for several reasons. One, I can enlarge the print! Some of the paperbacks were getting down right ridiculous at the size of the font the publishers were using. Two, I love, love being able to download a book at two o’clock in the morning, and three, with an ereader my husband now has no idea how many books I actually own. And four, the ereader has opened up a whole new world to me as a writer, but more importantly as a reader. Over the last several years I have read some really wonderful books that I know would never have seen the light of day if the author had had to wait for the publishers to get their thumbs out of their **s and published them.

What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once? Favorite book?

Mmm…that’s a tough one. Like I said I have a ton of books, most of which have been read more than once. I keep telling my best friend I’ve saved them so that when I’m old I’ll have forgotten them and I’ll have a whole library at my fingertips.

Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is your favorite/worst book to movie transfer?

Unfortunately, Hollywood hasn’t discovered the untapped market of the romance movie. They want the comedy aspect or the mystery part of romance. Why can’t they just make a good old-fashioned romance? Girl meets boy, girl hates boy…What woman wouldn’t want to watch an adaptation of her favorite romance book? I’m telling you, there’s money to be made in a Romance Channel network.

 

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Marie Mason has loved writing and reading her whole life. Everyone knows when you start to hear voices in your head, you’er destined to be admitted to the nearest mental ward—or become a writer. Marie decided to become writer instead of waiting for the men in white coats to come carry her away. She loves books about alpha males and especially alpha males who just happened to be a demon, wolf or a bear.

https://www.facebook.com/marie.mason.395017

https://twitter.com/mariemasonwrite

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7128723.Marie_Mason

Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: The Legacy of the Key by @slmorgan1

 

The Legacy of the Key

Ancient Guardians Series

Book One

S. L. Morgan

Genre: Fiction: Fantasy Romance

Historical, Science Fiction

Publisher: Pasidian Press

Date of Publication: December 21, 2012

ISBN-10: 0615736742

ISBN-13: 978-0615736747

ASIN: B00ARK6SUO

Number of pages: 372

Word Count: 101,102

Book Description:

No matter where you are, facing your reality with passion and purpose will always lead down the path you were intended to go.

While Reece Bryant is making her way through this world on her own, she is suddenly confronted with the truth of her existence, and the reality of her future. It is when she encounters two alluring and mysterious men, that a series of extraordinary events takes place, putting Reece’s life in grave danger. With her life in the balance, Reece must blindly trust the two mysterious strangers; and when she does, she is brought into an enchanting world that is beyond her logical comprehension.

This captivating land reveals new worlds and new dimensions to which her existence is paramount. But it is once she falls in love with the stunning Levi Oxley that everything will change, and Reece’s life will be in more danger than ever before.

Forced to return to Earth and face a Council of Worlds, Reece discovers there is more to this enchanting dimension than she could have ever imagined.

At a moment’s notice, even thru the fog of our denial, our journey can become crystal clear. And within the revelation, once our fear subsides, we can find contentment and purpose if we focus on the things that matter most. Trust—Courage—Love

Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/b2DdKCL3Bjs

Available at Amazon Kobo iTunes BN Smashwords

The Legacy of the Key is the first installment of S.L. Morgan’s new fantasy romance novel. The romance in this novel is perfectly suitable for young adults, teens ages 13 and up.

Prepare to journey into a captivating new world…that will remove you from reality as you know it! A 2014 Global ebook Gold award winning book and a 2014 Silver award medalist in the Reader's favorite international awards.

Praise for The Legacy of the Key:

5-STARS Ancient Guardians: The Legacy of the Key by S.L. Morgan is an enchanting novel with a flawless plot, breathtakingly vivid scenery and characters that so completely come to life and are relatable. The story took me from this world and transported me to a different time and to a place so beautiful and magnificent I sometimes needed a moment to pause and just take in the breathtaking scenery described therein. ~Reader's Favorite Review by Faridah Nassozi

5- STARS "There are two words to describe this book: ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. It is very difficult to put into words how much I enjoyed it. The concept of the different worlds and dimensions among us was unique and very intriguing; it immediately had me hooked.". ~Reader's Favorite Review by Cheryl Schopen

5-Stars "The book is fast paced and will take readers to another dimension altogether. It is a great roller coaster ride with fantasy, science fiction, mystery, romance, action, suspense and a new dimension all woven together.

The fall semester of Temple University’s medical program in Philadelphia had finally come to an end. Reece handed in her last final, and walked out toward the area where her friend Jack was meeting her to drive her to the airport. She had been dreading this day, not because of the finals, but because she was flying back to San Diego. Halfway through the semester, Reece had been notified that she would have to return home to settle the last of her father’s estate.

Two years ago, the summer after she graduated from college, her father died of a massive heart attack. He left her alone; with no one she could call family.

She had planned to stay in San Diego to pursue her medical degree, but it took nearly everything she had to stay and cope with her father’s death. In the end, she could no longer bear to live in the city that reminded her so much of him, and their years together.

After his passing she fled to Philadelphia in search of a new life. She had settled in quickly, making a couple of friends who helped to take her mind off of what she had left behind. Her grades were excellent, and she could not have been more proud of how well she was doing on her own. She felt strong.

Now, she had to return and face again the reality of it all again; the painful memories and feelings of weakness that she had so successfully suppressed.

She was determined not to let this trip tear down the strength she had found. She refused to let the past haunt her anymore. The trip would not be a long one; she would quickly handle the paperwork regarding the sale of her father’s home, and then return to her life in Philadelphia.

“Hey, Reece,” a familiar voice called out, pulling her out of her distant thoughts. “You’re out early; I was just going to wait out at the benches for you.”

Jack was getting ready to start his internship. He was an even tempered guy, and enjoyable to be around. They had developed a quick and entirely platonic rapport from the moment they met, and he always made her feel comfortable.

She smiled. “Thanks for taking me to the airport, Jack. I hated to call you so late, but Lori’s cancellation was kind of last-minute.” Lori and Reece had shared an apartment since Reece’s arrival in Philadelphia.

Jack placed his arm around her shoulders as they started walking. “So, when is Lori going to admit she’s in love with me, and get rid of that geek, Mitch?”

Reece chuckled. “When you get over yourself, and you’ve shown you can stay in a relationship longer than one night.”

He stared back at her. “Figures. Why do women always wait for Prince Charming to come along? I could be Prince Charming if that’s what it takes.” he laughed at himself.

“Jack, I’m sure you could. I think many of your girlfriends thought you were!”

“Well, whatever dork Lori wants to date is her problem, not mine. I’ve never been the type to attract the brunettes anyway. It’s always the blonde’s that seem to be attracted to men like me.”

Reece stared at him incredulously, “You’re unbelievable.”

He laughed. “Actually, come to think of it, there is one blonde haired, blue eyed girl that hasn’t fallen for my charming sensibilities…” He looked at her and smirked.

Reece shook her head, “And that’s not going to change, either! I don’t get it.”

“Get what?”

“The fact that you have to stereotype every female you come across. How shallow can one person be? You’re actually judging your relationships with women by the color of their hair? It’s stupid, and it’s half the reason you can’t stay in a relationship longer than one day.”

Jack laughed, “Awe, Reece, that’s what I love about you, always trying to keep me in line. And you know what? You’re probably right.”

“I’m always right.”

Jack dropped her off at the airport about two hours before her flight. Airports, ugh. If there was any place that she dreaded, it was an airport full of rush and chaos. On this trip, she had enough to contend with without additional stress.

She gritted her teeth through the security inspection, then shouldered her backpack and made the rounds of the shops, hoping to keep her mind occupied. She studied what seemed to be every souvenir in the terminal, then headed over to her departure gate and found a seat. She had at least half an hour before boarding.

As she sat back, she noticed two young business men walking toward the gate. They were dressed immaculately, in perfectly tailored suits that gave off an air of absolute supremacy. It wasn’t their magnetic and powerful presence that had her studying both of them, but there was something strangely familiar about them. Even so, she couldn’t place their faces from any class she’d been in. Well, it’s obvious they wouldn’t be in college, Reece, they’re dressed like they own the airline company. Who are these guys? It was bothering her that she couldn’t identify where she had seen them before.

One was dark-haired. Tall, dark, and very handsome, she thought with an internal chuckle. He was probably in his late twenties, but had an intimidating presence. He walked as though he commanded the entire gate, perhaps the entire airport. She frowned, trying to figure out whether it was the way he held himself, or the odd sense that she knew him, that caught her attention.

The blond man beside him was about the same height, and equally stunning, but less intimidating. The good-humored expression on his face set him apart from the other man. He looked as though he was recalling the punch line to a good joke. The men walked through the waiting area and stood near the large windows, away from the crowd.

Without warning, the dark-haired man looked away from his friend and stared directly at Reece. Their eyes locked, and she startled, but tried to continue gazing casually around the room. Her eyes didn’t see what was in front of them, though; she was wondering why these men seemed familiar.

She could not resist another glance back toward the window. The blond man was already staring directly at her. Busted. Perhaps she hadn’t been as discreet as she’d thought. He smiled vibrantly at her to confirm it.

Oh, well... She gave him back a smile, and looked past him at the sky outside. Thankfully, boarding was now announced. Reece stood and turned away.

Knowing this would be a long flight, Reece had opted to fly first class. She was one of the first to board, and found a comfortable aisle seat.

Two uniformed pilots sat in the front row. Perhaps they were going to take over the flight after Chicago, where more passengers would board. As soon as the airplane moved away from the gate, Reece rested her head against the leather headrest, closed her eyes, and allowed herself to drift off. It seemed now that the long week was finally catching up with her.

She woke enough to refuse when an attendant approached her to ask about refreshments. As she laid her head back, the two pilots in the front row stood and walked toward the cockpit. That’s a bit out of the ordinary, Reece thought sleepily.

She heard a step and looked backward down the aisle. Through the curtain that separated first class from coach, stepped the two young men she had seen earlier. They didn’t stop, but walked toward the cockpit. Now, she was a little concerned. Both men looked extremely somber. She noticed their blue eyes. Very blue eyes. They were almost—they were glowing, like sapphires reflecting the light.

Reece looked around at her fellow passengers, but no one seemed to notice anything strange. In fact, no one seemed to notice anything at all; they all stared straight ahead like mannequins, and the flight attendants were nowhere to be seen.

Now the two men were in the cockpit. Must be crowded with six in there, Reece thought nervously. Her heart beat faster.

The aircraft then went through an odd array of motions. It banked hard in one direction, and then immediately dropped. Reece’s stomach reacted instantly, and she gripped the armrests so tightly there should have been finger dents in them. The plane was climbing now. She looked for some comfort from the other passengers, but found none. Everyone in the cabin was expressionless and stoic, staring blankly ahead. Reece began to wonder if it could all be some strange dream.

Just then, the plane lunged sharply forward; it felt as though they were in a nose dive, speeding back down toward the Earth. Suddenly, a flash of light lit up the cabin, blinding Reece. While she was still dazed, another blinding flash lit the cabin.

After the two bright flashes, the airplane started to level out. The lights in the cabin flickered. It seemed the bright lights were the cause of the electrical malfunctions in the aircraft. Or was it the other way around? At any rate, they were not heading downward anymore.

Reece began to calm down. The plane flew smoothly without any more abrupt movements. Quiet conversations sounded around her, and she felt as though she were waking from a trance. The cabin was dark, and the people around her were talking to each other with concern.

A voice came over the intercom. “Good evening, passengers. This is your pilot speaking. It seems that our aircraft is experiencing various forms of technical difficulty. There is no need for any undue concern, but to err on the side of caution, we have requested, and have been granted, clearance to return to Philadelphia. We are en route there now. I ask that all passengers remain seated until we return the aircraft safely to the ground.”

Reece remained quiet; she did not know what to believe. Shortly after the pilot made his announcement, the airplane began its descent. Once safely on the ground again and the airplane slowly returned to an open gate, the pilot came over the intercom again, thanking the passengers for their cooperation and expressing his apologies for the inconvenience. Reece sat in shock and wondered if it had been a dream. Dream or reality, I want off this plane, she thought, and she grabbed her backpack.

As she followed the group back into the airport, she noticed the two young men again, walking ahead of her. The blond man was acting as if he had just got off a plane in Las Vegas after a winning streak, but the dark one seemed uninterested in his friend’s enthusiasm. They stopped, both of them staring down at some object in the dark one’s hand. Reece looked at them speculatively. They raised their heads simultaneously, looking directly at her. She could not pull her questioning eyes away from them, wondering if they were the cause of the airplane’s malfunctioning. They returned her gaze, seemingly as interested in her as she was in them. Everything in her wanted to stop and question them, but for fear of making a fool of herself, she turned her attention back to the crowd in front of her and continued to walk past them. Before turning the corner, she turned back one last time. They were both staring intently at her. The dark blond smiled at her warmly. There seemed to be more behind his smile than just politeness.

After Reece managed to secure another flight out for the next morning, she called Jack for a ride home from the airport. She hated to bother him again, and should probably just take a cab ride home, but she’d rather not be in the presence of strangers after what she had just experienced. Jack had wasted no time returning to pick her up, and she was grateful for it. The distress of the strange flight started to diminish as soon as she was away from the airport.

Jack dropped Reece of at her apartment. “Marti’s later?” he asked.

It was their usual coffee shop. “Sure.” she smiled at him. “Lori will bring Mitch; think you can stand it?”

He clasped his hands dramatically. “Ah, my broken heart!” Then he reverted to his normal voice. “Pick you up at six, okay?”

Reece dumped her backpack at the door, plopped down onto the sofa, and turned on the television. She dropped her purse to the floor next to her and grabbed the remote. Flipping through the channels, she found a sea life documentary to watch. Graceful dolphins, swimming, swimming... Suddenly, she felt as if it were three in the morning; she could hardly keep her eyes open. She let her body relax and closed her eyes.

She woke abruptly from a dreamless sleep, thinking she’d heard the door. She sat up, looking toward the door, expecting Lori to enter. There was no sign of Lori, and no sign the door had been opened. The deadbolt remained in the locked position.

Old building noises. She sank back into the sofa, pulling over her the blanket they kept draped over the back. She leaned over to grab the remote control from the coffee table.

Something moved. In the kitchen? It was just a glimpse, out of the corner of her eye. She sat back, taking slow breaths. Probably nothing. She stared into the kitchen—open to the living room, with a counter between.

Phone. She picked up her purse and fumbled around for her cell phone. As she retrieved the phone, she looked up and was stupefied by the figure standing in front of her. She tried to blink it away, but it remained; solid, unmoving.

“Dad?” she whispered.

She stared in amazement at the image of her father, standing in her living room. He didn’t move, or respond to her. He stood there, expressionless, as if he was studying her.

Reece felt as if a heavy weight had landed on her, instantly paralyzing her. She could not do anything except stare at him. He was wearing the clothes he had worn the last time she saw him; dark brown slacks, and a crisp, blue shirt.

Suddenly, he smiled his heartwarming smile.

Reece’s eyes filled with tears, and the image blurred. She’d forgotten how much she missed him. She felt a flood of repressed emotions far greater than those she’d feared her trip to San Diego would evoke. His face, his presence, and his smile brought back vivid memories of him and their life together; memories she had tried to set aside so she could function without him. These were the memories that made her wonder how she could go through the rest of her life alone.

Frightened by the realization that her deceased father standing in front of her, she squeezed her eyes shut, hoping this image would go away. Strangely, the weight lifted slowly, and she regained control of her large muscles. When she dared to open her eyes, he was gone. She felt both frustration and relief. Was her perpetual anxiety over her impending trip causing hallucinations now? She needed to get hold of herself.

Slam! Reece leaped off the sofa and turned back toward the door.

“Geez, girl! What are you doing here?” It was Lori, jumping back into the doorway and dropping her Keys.

With her hand over her heart, Lori stared at Reece in shock. Reece was the mirror image of Lori, with her hand covering her chest. She took a deep calming breath. “Sorry Lori, my flight was pushed out until tomorrow. The plane had issues or something.”

Lori let out a sigh of relief and bent over to pick up her Keys. “Well, that’s…” she started.

“Never a good thing, I know.” Reece finished her sentence.

An hour later, they were all in Jack’s car. He drove the car as if he were in a high-speed chase.

“Slow it down, Jack,” Reece said. “I knew I should have taken own my car,” she muttered to Lori who sat next to her in the back seat.

Lori smiled and leaned forward to put a hand on Mitch’s shoulder. “You’re driving next time, honey.”

“Hey,” said Mitch, “I’m actually enjoying myself. It’s not every day I get to jump into a classic ‘67 Camaro SS. I’m curious, how fast can these cars really go?”

A large smile stretched across Jack’s face. “I can fix your curiosity if you’d like.”

Lori exhaled ostentatiously. “Why don’t you do that after you drop us off, Jack? Then you both can go kill yourselves together. What is it with men and cars?”

Reece shrugged her shoulders. More talk about cars would just encourage Jack to do something stupid. “Hey, what do you guys think about going to dinner instead of coffee? I’m not really in the mood to sit in a coffee shop right now. School’s out and we’ve spent enough time there studying for finals.”

Lori smiled. “Good call, Reece. I’m hungry, anyways. Let’s go to that new Italian restaurant. It’s supposed to be nice.”

Jack laughed and responded. “Whatever you women want, I’m just the driver.” he looked toward Mitch. “You cool with that, Mitch? Oh wait, never mind, you’re always cool with anything.”

He tried to make eye contact with Reece in the rearview mirror. Reece ignored him pointedly, looking out the window.

They were stopped at a red light, a block south of the restaurant. Pedestrians hurried past on the sidewalks. Two of them—What?—two of them were the young men who’d been on the airplane. Reece’s heart raced.

“Reece? What are you staring at?” Lori had grabbed her arm.

“What? Um, well, there was… it’s just...” She turned back to look out the window, and the two men were gone.

“Just what, Reece?” Lori said, trying to look past Reece out the window.

“Oh, nothing. My mind was somewhere else. I’m sorry, what were you saying?”

Lori laughed. “Girl, you need a cocktail or something! You’re starting to act delirious.” she laughed, but her eyes showed concern.

“I just need to eat something; it’s been a long day.”

The restaurant’s parking lot was full. “Well, of course, this place is packed! Hopefully, the garage we passed has a spot available.” Jack huffed. “You girls need to learn how to cook dinner or something. By the time it takes me to park, you both could have cooked and served us men a nice, healthy meal.” He spun the car back down an alley to find more parking.

“We ‘girls’?” said Lori. “You ‘men’? Learn to cook yourself, Jack! Until then, just park the car and quit complaining, or you can wait with it until we finish.” They pulled into an extra parking area and found a spot. Before he was out of his car, Jack noticed another car nearby. “Are you serious!” he said, walking up to it. “Check out this car, guys. It’s like some prototype or something.”

Mitch walked over to the car while Reece and Lori stared at them both, annoyed by the delay.

Lori called out to them, “It’s nice, Jack. What is it, a Porsche or something?”

Jack laughed as he walked the length of the sporty black car. “It’s not a Porsche. I’ve never read, or heard, about anything like this! I wonder whose it is; this car has to be worth well over a hundred thousand bucks!”

As he walked closer, the car emitted a warning sound. Reece crossed her arms. “Jack, can we GO? You are most likely about to meet the owner; I’m sure it has some kind of pager. I’m ready to eat.”

Jack’s head snapped up, and he walked away from the car; turning back over and over, as if he wanted to check it out one more time.

Once inside the restaurant, they were seated in a secluded, candle-lit nook behind a red brick archway. While waiting for their orders, they engaged in conversation about their challenging finals earlier that day. As usual, Jack entertained the group with his natural humor. It was definitely the environment Reece needed to take her mind off of the strange events from earlier.

In the midst of her laughter, Reece glanced up to see if the waitress was returning with their meals, only to be frozen in shock. Across the way, the two men from the plane were sitting at a table which faced theirs. The blond man was staring directly at her, and when she tried to act as though she hadn’t noticed them, he raised his wine glass in her direction and smiled.

She looked back to Lori and Mitch sitting across from her, trying to shake herself into reality. Are they following me? Who are these guys?

Lori looked at her quizzically. “Reece, are you okay? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

Reece shook her head and tightened her fist angrily. This could not be happening.

“What do you need?” Jack said. “I’ll get the waitress. Why are you so tense?”

Reece heard all of their voices like echoes in the background as she pulled herself together. She closed her eyes and unclenched her fists. “Water,” she said softly. “I just wanted to see if refills were coming.”

She had to pull it together, and she would do it now. Reece would not allow these men to intimidate her in anyway. Whether or not these two interesting men had anything to do with the strange occurrences on the plane, or if they were following her now, she would prove to them she wasn’t afraid of them. Inwardly she was concerned, but she would not let them see that.

Jack was the one to break the silence. “All of this over a glass of water? Stay here; I’ll go get the waitress.” Reece clutched his hand. “Sheesh, Reece, can you release the death grip? I won’t make a scene, but Lori’s right; you look like you’ve had a paranormal experience or something.”

Shortly thereafter, the waitress appeared with refills, followed by other staff with their plates. Jack sat back, and once the staff left, Reece laughed. “Sorry guys, it has been a very long day. I think I just need to eat. This food smells delicious, doesn’t it?”

Her friends looked worried. She knew they’d never seen her act this way. And quite frankly, she was beginning to worry herself.

Reece ignored their discomfort. She started in on her plate, took a bite, and smiled brilliantly. “Guys, stop staring at me, we don’t need any more drama.” she laughed as she took another bite, “Now, what were we talking about before I almost melted down over a glass of water?”

Jack didn’t hesitate to break up the awkward moment. While he continued to relax everyone at the table with his humor, Reece reached for her glass of wine. She felt the eyes of the men stealing glances at her, and now it was time to show them, they didn’t intimidate her.

She looked over at their table. Both men were engaged in conversation, but must have noticed Reece watching them. The dark haired man looked over at her, bringing the blond one’s eyes to follow his gaze. After Reece had the blond man’s attention, she arched her brow, raised her wineglass to him, and smiled with confidence. The darker one’s lips turned up slightly, while he brought his attention back to his friend, the one who Reece was gazing directly at. The blond chuckled softly, and returned her smile with amusement. Then, without another glance back to Reece, he returned to his plate before him.

Handsome or not, Reece was annoyed that these two mysterious men were playing games with her. It was best if she just ignored them from here on out. She knew if she didn’t, it would not take much for her to walk over to their table and start demanding answers. With that in mind, she engaged herself in the lively conversation her friends were now having, and ignored any desire to return her attention back to the men.

The rest of dinner was uneventful, and Jack entertained everyone so well that they seemed to forget about Reece’s odd behavior.

Back at the apartment, Reece wished Lori a good night, and fell into bed. The alarm clock would ring soon enough.

 

Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?

I have always been a detailed ‘story teller.’ Never once did I imagine putting my stories down on paper. I went to college to pursue a degree in Teaching, until I became pregnant with my oldest son. Fortunately, my husband and I were blessed with him having a job that would support me becoming a stay at home mom. After all the kiddos went off to school and I grew tired of re-reading all of my favorite books and trying to find more, I decided it was time to write a book series that I wanted to read. The next thing I knew, I found myself doing what I was truly meant to do in life. I have never been more fulfilled doing something in all my life. I absolutely love writing.

When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?

It was really when I sent this book out on its first blog tour. The honest reviews started coming in from bloggers and readers that I’ve never met and they came back with wonderful reviews, absolutely loving the book. That is when I sat back and realized, I’m a writer, I’m entertaining reader’s with my story.

How long did it take to get your first book published?

Over a year. I chose to self-publish and that can be a very difficult journey. Not only are you seeking out a professional editor on your own, re-writing, editing, editing and editing…but you have to start preparing to market your book. Then comes looking for a professional artist for your book cover. From the moment the story is written on paper and you start working to bring that book to publish, that’s when it seems like there will never be a light at the end of the tunnel. But, with hard work, dedication and endurance, I survived and The Legacy of the Key saw it’s publishing date a year after I finished writing it.

Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?

I am a stay at home mom. When the kiddos are off to school is when I have my time to sit down and write, edit and keep my book series going.

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 second book, “The Uninvited” was published on February 2014. This book brings reader’s back into the enchanting realm of Pemdas, only to find a strange mystery awaits them and all who live in Pemdas. As protective as Pemdas is for Reece Bryant, there are indeed ways that the Guardians are forced to continue their struggle in protecting her.

Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?

I self-publish.

How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?

I can write one to two chapters a day when I have no distractions. These books literally draw me in, hold me hostage and won’t let me go. I wrote the second and third books in this series in a month. It’s the editing that slows the release of these books down.

What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre?

Books of a different genre? Right now, I have four books written in this series. I believed I was finished with the series after I finished book 4. Then an idea came to me and now I can’t wait to write the fifth book. I also plan to write a prequel to the entire series once I finish book 5. I also am tossing the idea around about writing a children’s novel that brings children into the enchanting world of Pemdas through the life of the unique critters in this world.

What genre would you place your books into?

This series has reached ages 13 all the way up to reader’s in their 80’s. This book can fit into so many different genre’s, fantasy, science fiction, romance, fantasy historical romance, young adult, new adult/college. It really runs across a lot of genre’s, I think that’s pretty neat.

What made you decide to write that genre of book?

I love historical romance novels. I love the Jane Austen era. I also love the fantasy of C.S. Lewis. I knew it would be highly difficult to play in the world of historical romances, so enter the fantasy of C.S. Lewis and with the fantasy of the novel, my historical world could be whatever I wanted it to be. It gave me the freedom to create a new culture and world without anyone saying, “That’s historically inaccurate.”

Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?

I absolutely love all of my characters. Reece Bryant, is the main female character who must face this new world and deal with having her life flipped upside down. She also must face some pretty ‘stuck-up’ women of her age and she handles them very well. She has a strong personality and in writing her being brought into this world, I could easily relate to every emotion she felt. Levi Oxley, I love everything about his personality and his selfless nature. Being the Emperor’s son, he doesn’t let this position or title go to his head, quite the opposite really. I enjoy that about a man and sadly, Levi is one of those ‘men’ that it seems you can only find in novels these days. Lastly, Harrison Oxley, cousin and close friend of Levi’s. He is sharp-witted and adds great humor to the story. You never know what that guy will say or do and it’s always a good time when he’s around!

How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?

I stared writing in November of 2011. I was inspired to write by wanting to read a novel like this one. I wanted to read something that I really have never read before, something unique. I couldn’t find a book that was resolving that need for me, so I wrote this series.

Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?

I have to listen to music. Music brings the characters and scenes to life in my head as if I were watching a movie. Then I pop open my laptop, make sure I have a piping hot cup of coffee and start in on my writing.

Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?

With having to edit my third book, I rarely have time to check all the reviews of the book. I do read them, the good, the bad and the ugly. Recently, the book hit #6 in all of Free kindle downloads and negative reviews started immediately rolling in, saying that this book needed to be edited. I had brought this book through at least 10 edits, sent it off to beta test-readers to see if there were more distracting errors and after we believed everything was cleaned up and polished, these awful reviews came in. It was my job as the author of this book to ensure these reviews were accurate. I sent the book off to two copy-editors, they went through the book and cleaned up any punctuation errors and grammatical errors the book had. Just recently the book has been republished and I am confident that the negative reviews about errors should no longer come. This situation proved to me that reading reviews can be very helpful to your work. The great ones keep me humbled and inspired, the bad ones, I let roll off my back (crazy as it may seem, the entire world of reader’s are not all going to like this storyline *wink*) and the reviews that offer critique, I take very seriously and look into what had this reviewer critiquing the book. I feel that if the Reader’s take time to review the book, I should take time to read them and enjoy them.

Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?

I wrote the book and then chose the best title that would fit the series and the subject of the book in the series.

How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?

This is where a lot of creativity comes in on my part. I wanted unique names, but not difficult names. I honestly stared at the letters on my key board and thought of ways to change names, to create names and to decide upon them.

Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?

I picked the characters and places and then decided on their names. It’s almost like naming your children. You want a name that will fit their personality. I am very unique with names anyway, so it was fun picking un-common character names.

Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?

As I write, it is strange, the character’s personality traits come to me. Reece was one I really had to watch, she would be under the most fire because there are so many out there looking for a strong, relatable female character. I feel she handles her own very well.

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..")

Not necessarily, I just want reader’s to enjoy a world where chivalry still exists, those in high respectable positions (The Emperor and Empress and family) not finding themselves above everyone, but humble and concerned for all of those in need and have less than them. I want reader’s to enjoy a world where a man stands to honor a woman entering a room and is loyal to her with whatever she needs.

Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?

I love hardback books. I can’t wait until the day comes where I will be able to publish this series in hardback. Right now, I am perfectly settled with a softcover. I love having a book in my hands when I read.

What is your favorite book and Why?

Have you read it more than once? Pride and Prejudice. I love the wit of Miss. Elizabeth and how she attracts the ‘stuck-up’ Mr. Darcy. I can read this book over and over again.

Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?

I will be honest, books and movies are almost two separate worlds. In books, your mind creates the characters you’re drawn too and when the movie does not portray those characters, it’s very difficult to enjoy the movie. I think the worse book to movie, would be the twilight series. The best book to movie would be the Colin Firth version of Pride and Prejudice. They nearly followed every word and scene in Jane Austen’s book. Although, Miss Elizabeth in that version is not the Elizabeth I see in my mind when I read. Colin Firth will ALWAYS be the best Mr. Darcy.

Your favorite food is?

Italian. YUM!

Your favorite singer/group is?

Evanescence, Amy Lee.

Your favorite color is?

Black, I love the power and sophistication that this color brings in clothing and even on cars.

Your favorite Author is?

Jane Austen

 

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International Award winning author S. L. Morgan grew up in the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains of California. Over the past nine years, she and her husband, Jason Morgan, their three kids moved throughout the United States. Recently, S.L. Morgan was blessed to move back to her hometown of Oakhurst California where she is currently editing the third book in the Ancient Guardians Novel Series.

S.L. Morgan was born telling vivid and long stories to anyone who would listen. With a personality that is extremely driven, she finally decided to put her stories to paper. With her passion and love for Jane Austen classics and the wonderful imaginative books from C.S. Lewis, she created the new Novel Series, Ancient Guardians.

Recently S.L. Morgan has been honored with awards for The Legacy of the Key, winning the 2014 Reader’s Favorite Silver medal for Fiction: Supernatural and also winning gold in the Global eBook awards for Fiction: Fantasy Romance. The Legacy of the Key was also a recipient of four 5-star review seals from Reader’s Favorite reviews.

With her second book in the series published, receiving a 5-star seal from Reader’s Favorite Reviews and now a nominee for the Global e-book award, S.L. Morgan is currently working on edits for the third book in her series.

When not entirely consumed by writing and editing, S.L. Morgan absolutely loves to be out on her boat in the summer or hitting the slopes in when winter comes around. She prides herself in her Starbucks Gold card and is convinced this series would have never made it to publishing without a Venti Café Americano.

With a profound love for her family, life and friends; S.L. Morgan enjoys every minute of every day, endeavoring to live her life at its fullest. With a very open and friendly personality, she enjoys interacting with her reader’s and helping those in need.

Humbled with every book review, be them good or bad, S.L. Morgan continues to write in her series with the hopes of entertaining more and more reader’s everyday.

Website: www.slmorganauthor.com

Blogsite: http://ancientguardiansnovel.wordpress.com/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/slmorganauthor

Book Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AncientGuardiansLegacyOfTheKey

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6861881.S_L_Morgan

Twitter: @slmorgan1

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/SL-Morgan/e/B00ARXKAL4/

Book Blast & Giveaway: For All in the Hope by @KENowinsky

BOOK INFORMATION TITLE – For All in the Hope SERIES – Going off Dreams AUTHOR – K.E. Nowinsky GENRE – Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Science Fiction PUBLICATION DATE – December 9th, 2014 PUBLISHER – Kindle Direct Publishing COVER ARTIST – Going off Dreams Saga Productions BOOK SYNOPSIS For All in the Hope picks up right where Going off Dreams (book 1) leaves off. Nyx wakes up in the dark realm of Tartarus without her man next to her in bed. They had Xylo, the wicked Woodland Dryad prisoner until they discover that not only is she missing, Nyx’s man Tobar is missing too. Plus, another ally and friend, the Feung Phoenix Shifter and best friend of Tobar’s, Zhou is critically injured! There is a race against time to find out what happened and to rescue Tobar before those that want to destroy Nyx and her powers permanently turn Tobar. In the Earthly realm, Eryn is still coping with the fact that she has to leave her family and everything she knows and loves. She struggles to keep the stress of the realms from shattering her realities. As mortal Eryn, she’s a daughter to loving parents, the bigger sister to her outgoing younger sister Lena, who is living with her, and she’s also trying to balance Ryan in her life. After Christmas, Lena’s ex fiancé makes another tragic appearance that will change their fates forever. Back in Tartarus, Nyx comes head to head with the Darkness that wants to consume her powers. Just when you would think the battle is over, another sinister entity comes forward trying to claim her powers. Meanwhile she’s continuing to build her relationships with her friends and allies she’s made in Tartarus while also learning the capabilities of her powers that the Darkness wants to consume and wield for their dark purposes. Nyx discovers her qualities within the quests and becomes the deity that will bring light to the darkness. BUY & TBR LINKS AMAZON KINDLE PRE-ORDER – THUNDERCLAP - BARNES & NOBLES BOOK 1 (Going Off Dreams) BUY LINKS AMAZON - BARNES & NOBLES EXCERPT

GIFT OF ESCAPE

Opening my eyes the images surrounding me were blurry and unfocused. Not knowing where I was, made me feel sick within the pit of my stomach and threatening to escape. My heart was in competition, feeling as if it were going to burst through my chest along with my breathing; it was catching in my lungs like knives.

Surveying the scene, items started making some sense. When my eyes focused, I could make out the dark room with the help of the soft glow from the lights above me. I knew I had returned. I was back in Arden’s Hut, something didn’t feel right though, I was alone. Immediately I moved my hand to feel the sheets on the bed next to me, only feeling empty fabric and coldness where I expected warmth.

My feet met the cool wooden floor as I searched the small quarters along with the connecting bathroom. He wasn’t anywhere, no note, no sign of him ever being there. My heart plummeted in a swan dive directly to the pit of my stomach, this felt all too real and familiar. The emptiness and dread, as if the darkness would swallow me whole was threatening to entrap my consciousness. Commotion from the hallway broke the threatening fear.

Not being able to hear what was going on; I crept toward the huge thick door. Carefully, I maneuvered my toes on the floor, not to wake the creaky boards beneath me. When I heard a familiar voice say “Get Nyx, we’ll have to tell her.” The knock at the door was a little shocking, making my already erratic breathing nearly stop all together.

Drawing a deep breath in I cracked the door peaking out, my eyes focused on the dark silhouette, light that was being filtered from behind her somewhere. As my eyes adjusted more I could associate the name with the being; Arden. She was one of the first entities I met here in this realm.

While it was dark and perilous there was a sense that there could be more, quite a weird sensation of both hesitation and promise. I knew there were threats possibly lurking in the shadows and yet I also had formed friendships and allies with some unique and wonderful beings here. While the threat was prominent I also felt secure and a sense of being home.

When I first met Arden I had seen her materialize on the edge of a mystical forest, which seemed like a lifetime ago. Her hair, black as the night that plagued Tartarus, and her eyes a mystic violet. She reminded me of a Native American goddess. She had the fighting skills of Qamait; goddess of war with the Nuxalk Nation. Her body looks sculpted like a well-trained assassin, fit with curves to draw any male prey. With her enchanted bow and her whip KiKi to aid in her quests, she was magnificent and wicked to witness in battle.

Arden was more of an older sister figure. Within minutes of meeting her I felt a sense of shared spiritual security within our devotion and dedication to those we hold near to us. Plainly put, I liked Arden. She was usually in better spirits though. Now her face was serious and worried which in turn worried me further and only added to my desperation. Looking at her through the entrance to my bedroom chamber, the light flickered from the candles in the hallway flirting with her skin enhancing her natural beauty. She said, “Nyx, you’ll need to come with me.”

“What’s going on?” I asked her.

She didn’t answer as she walked up toward the main hall.

The main room in Arden’s Hut consisted of wooden walls that reminded me of the consistency and texture like beavers had whittled the wood. Complete opposite, the floors were smooth and reminded me of a clean chopped tree displaying its many rings of life. When you looked above you could see smoke escaping through a fashioned hide-stretched ceiling. In the middle of the room a roaring fire encompassed by rocks that protect the many pillows thrown about – to which Arden would resort to throwing at guests when the opportunity presented itself. Her hut was comforting and inviting; when you took a deep breath in you could detect all the wonders and smells of the forest, which to me were delightful. You could also tell that her home had been around for a long time. Arden is a direct descendent of the Arduinnian Clan, who are known as the Guardians of the Forest, direct descendent of Diana, goddess of the hunt.

Upon entering Arden’s main room, my stomach immediately wrenched into a horrid knot. Zhou was laying lifelessly on the floor. This made my insides crawl knowing how powerful a fighter he is. Immediately I started contemplating what could have caused this serious condition.

Arden must have been hurting even more so. She had developed a relationship with Zhou and this only increased my concern. Arden, the true warrior that she is, was being strong for everyone. A painful lump was pressing against my throat and my eyes were pleading to cry. If Arden was holding it together, so could I.

I always liked Zhou, and I was sad to see him like this. He was still wearing his electric dark blue pants, with an equally dark purple shirt, and with the red streak in his black hair made him look intriguing. I never understood his fashion statements. I respected him though, as a fighter, a friend, and ally. With Zhou’s New Age fashion sense, it made him seem like he wasn’t from this dimension. Tartarus was more of a realm set with foliage. His choices in wardrobe against Arden’s more naturalistic approach made them both look mismatched. Seeing them together usually made me smile but, not now—Zhou was a Fenghuang, a shape shifting fire bird, more precisely a fiery phoenix. While he was very skilled in both his forms he is more powerful when he is in his phoenix form. He’s always eager for a fight. Zhou is like that big brother pulling you in to give you a noogie to remind you of the status quo. I’m afraid this time though, the fight won.

A healer Hikmat had his hands on Zhou’s forehead and chest, his eyes closed in concentration, meditating over Zhou’s lifeless body. I didn’t know Hikmat as well as some of the others in the room, I had met him only recently, and I knew he was a healer of sorts. He was a wizard when it pertained to plants, potions, and concoctions. He was a Tobar Segais like Tobar, meaning he possessed wisdom. His eyes stayed closed while his hands remained on Zhou.

Thinking of Tobar made my stomach dive even deeper. As if my stomach detached from the warm blood circulation within my body and plummeted toward the depths of despair— my mind reconnected with another concern that had me riddled right before seeing Zhou on the floor. Tobar, he was missing from our room and if Zhou was lying on the floor defeated… Tobar was an equal opponent.

Tobar was the one that introduced me into the realm. He was the one that my heart connected with and I felt drawn toward, like no other before him. A truly deep soul connection, without him next to me I felt as though a part of my being was missing. He had given me refuge from myself, I felt safe when I was with him. Without him, the danger lurking within the darkness here seemed more prominent and threatening.

With the thought of him not in sight intensified the sinking feeling that had pressed so deeply south. It began to rise more rapidly back up. I had to place my hand over my mouth to reel in my senses.

Arden kneeled down next to Zhou as closely as she could. She gently brushed her cheek against his in an intimate gesture. The room felt as if all the oxygen leaving vacuumed sealed the room, extinguishing the fire, and even the warm inside my body as I felt a sudden chill. Suffocating, I watched as she then placed her lips upon his with a soft wanting kiss. Arden’s eyes began to fill with emotion. I felt for her, as the tears sparkling against her skin escaped their confines and splashed against Zhou’s skin below. She placed her hands on his as she prayed silently.

Seeing her in such distress only made the situation feel more dire. I too bowed my head and closing my eyes.

Desperately I began to pray for Tobar’s safety and Zhou’s recovery. Please Lord, deliver Tobar back to us safely and lay your healing hands upon Zhou; as we so desperately need You now. I pray for those that have made their move against us. They’ll wish they had never been in existence once I finish with them…

My concentration broke off when Avlov and Enki joined us then. They both had bowls in their hands that contained some healing elements. Enki took Avlov’s and kneeled next to Hikmat on Zhou’s other side. Enki and I had only met recently as well. He was known as Lord of the Earth, meaning he had control over the elements and its constituents.

A Wieven, Avlov is also known as a Wise Woman. She has a vast knowledge of healing salves, rituals and how to use the elements for their benefit. She has fierce white eyes that match her white hair and almost a hipster outfit. I always liked Avlov because she wore converses.

The group that was working on Zhou, the healers, are much like those that wield magic. They can manipulate matter and they have a vast knowledge that helps them in their aiding processes. To watch them in action definitely feels like you were experiencing magic in a true form.

Touching my shoulder, Avolv broadcasted a message using her telepathy, “Nyx, I need to talk to you, please come with me over to the table.” Leading me over, she verbally asked “Have you seen Tobar?”

I was on the verge of tears, there was still so much that remained unanswered, and if Zhou was hurt—I could barely articulate “No, I woke up to an empty room, a cold bed and I couldn’t find him anywhere.” My chest flet like it was going to combust.

Arden had joined us and she put her hand around my shoulders to give me a half-hug “We’ll get these—”

But Avlov interrupted her and said, “I think we should get Nyx up to speed with what’s going on.”

Zhou began to stir making some noises and we all ran to his side. I felt so bad that he had to suffer so much. He opened his eyes and found Arden’s first, she took his hands in hers. Then he found mine and started to speak, weakly saying “I don’t… know… what… happened.”

Enki spoke up and said that Zhou had taken Xylo, the captured dryad we were interrogating, some refreshments for when she would wake up.

Zhou continued, “I opened her door… the next thing I knew I was… laying here.”

Hikmat told Zhou that he needed to rest. We gathered pillows as they propped him up, attempting to give him some comfort. Hikmat gave Zhou another potion, this time it was clear. What was it? How easily we were to trust. After he drank it, he smiled before his eyes closed and he was back asleep.

“So where’s Tobar?” I asked plainly.

Everyone looked alarmed. The sick feeling returned and now there was an alarming amount of pressure on my chest. I could sense something bad was coming. It was just around the corner, lingering there like a poisonous snake waiting to strike, taking me down with its dread and despair.

Avlov came to my side, she could be frightening to look at in the eye. Tobar mentioned before she was also known as the White Witch, I guess when you’ve been in existence as long as someone like Avlov has been, you can acquire a few nick names here and there.

She offered me some tea but I refused it, especially since I know how loopy her tea could make me feel. No doubt she added a little something extra to the liquid concoctions to help ease the soul in times of stress or high anxiety. Which would actually be great right about now but, I need my wit about me.

Arden came over to me and put her hands upon my shoulders again. Looking me directly in the eyes she said “We can’t find him.” My chest felt like it burst into flames. My body went limp, and I felt like I was falling. Everything went black.

BOOK SOUNDTRACK Paramore “Daydreaming” http://youtu.be/euxXBvdrzxQ Evanescence “Together Again” http://youtu.be/jhUfbXcEBDs Within Temptation “The Heart of Everything” http://youtu.be/kKLhHlnDCA0 Evanescence “Sweet Sacrifice” http://youtu.be/XBYhQnjyrWo Lacuna Coil “Our Truth” http://youtu.be/XCxFTh-XDy8 In This Moment “Forever” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLP1AodaZd4 Jennifer Thomas “Illuminations” http://youtu.be/VH81mKKK9Go Jennifer Thomas “Secrets” http://youtu.be/_VunOIswEmg Jennifer Thomas “Etude for the Dreamer” http://youtu.be/N1VxCqPIRXA Within Temptation “The Silent Force” http://youtu.be/ThA5dKeI5Lg AUTHORS PLAYLIST Lacuna Coil “Soul Inmate” http://youtu.be/V5PJDB9r4T4 Evanescence “My Heart Is Broken” http://youtu.be/f1QGnq9jUU0 Within Temptation “The Howling” http://youtu.be/0bqRn0rLq1c Evanescence “Tourniquet” http://youtu.be/AO_3nArjlOU Fireflight “Stand Up” http://youtu.be/tWOmfOah--o Lacuna Coil “Trip the Darkness” http://youtu.be/VTT6picaCoQ In This Moment “Lost At Sea” http://youtu.be/GoXfJEXrOvQ Within Temptation “Stairway to the Skies” http://youtu.be/Abukde4cB2o Evanescence “All That I’m Living For” http://youtu.be/j1BlUcVWmMc Evanescence “Snow White Queen” http://youtu.be/cRqbH8GBlGc CHARACTER BIOS In the mortal realm of Earth, she’s known as Katheryn, Eryn for short. She works within the local school system which means she doesn’t get paid as much as she should. Living on a tight budget, she recruited her younger sister Lean to move in with her. Eryn also has a dog named Bryan and an old fat cat named Smokie. She’s never been too lucky in love but, recently she found a man that isn’t put off by her distance; not to mention Lena really pushes for her older sister to loosen up more. Within her alternative realm of Tartarus she’s known as Nyx, an evolving powerful deity. She’s been quested with fighting the darkness within a realm seething to consume her. She has a group of guardians with powers of their own to help her as well in particular the man whom from the start, an electrical spark that ignited their passion. Nyx is a survivor she’ll fight for what she believes in and for those that she cares for. She’s definitely someone you want in your corner. Before he disappeared, Tobar was a Segais, he had powers of a particular kind; he knew everything. His friends in Tartarus teased him that he was a “Mr. Know-it-all”. This always was useful with the woman that he loves, Nyx. He has a gentle soul and someone you would definitely want to cuddle with. However, after he’s taken his world changes when Lilith and Xylo nearly mutilate him turning him for their own dark purposes. With his new vampirism needs, things get complicated quickly. One good thing, now both Tobar and Nyx are immortal but, with immortality comes other obstacles of their own. To learn more about the various characters visit http://goingoffdreams.blogspot.com AUTHOR BIO K.E. lives in Maryland, which she refers to as “The Land of Mary”, with her faithful guard dog Bryan, her supportive parents, and their little brat-dog Sampson. She has deep-rooted morals and is very faithful in her beliefs. As a person born and raised in Maryland, she is a fan of the Baltimore Ravens and the Baltimore Orioles. When she isn’t writing, blogging, or spending time with those special characters in her head, she loves to watch her shows, to cuddle up with a good movie, or to spend time with her family and friends. “After years and years of my mother telling me that I should us my talents and write, I finally listened!” K.E. Nowinsky continues writing and plans to further the Going off Dreams realms as she dives deeper into the characters and will produce more content and books. The next scheduled work will be about one of her characters Arden and titled Arduinna: Guardians of the Forest, slotted for April 2015. She is also continuing Nyx’s quests in the next installment: How Otlen Prepares Eternity, expected to release late summer 2015. AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE  –  WEBSITE / BLOG  –  FACEBOOK  –  FACEBOOK PAGE  –  TWITTER  –  GOOGLE+  -  PINTEREST  –  NETWORKED BLOGS – Going off Dreams Blog  -  GOODREADS GIVEAWAY PRIZES 1 Signed Paperback Copy (INT) 2 Ebook Copies 1 Swag Bag 1 $25 Amazon GC a Rafflecopter giveaway Tour Organized & Hosted By

Book Blast & Giveaway: A Splash of Hope by @charityparkerso

   BOOK INFORMATION

TITLE – A Splash of Hope SERIES – Spiced Life Book 1 AUTHOR – Charity Parkerson GENRE – Romantic Suspense PUBLICATION DATE – 12/13/13 LENGTH (Pages/# Words) - 177 PUBLISHER – Punk & Sissy Publications COVER ARTIST – Punk & Sissy Publications

     BOOK SYNOPSIS

Two years ago, Faith Hope left her hometown vowing never to return. When her sister leaves the town’s hottest bachelor standing at the altar and disappears, Faith is forced to face her past in order to find her.

With a little bit of luck, some devious planning, and a splash of hope Faith may get her happily-ever-after... whether she wants it or not.

BUY & TBR LINKS

AMAZON KINDLE US – AMAZON KINDLE UK – AMAZON PAPERBACK – BARNES & NOBLES PAPERBACK – GOODREADS – SHELFARI – AUDIBLE

   EXCERPT

Her feet hurt, and she’d moved beyond stickiness from the heat over two hours earlier. Faith was also sick beyond tears at knocking on doors no one bothered answering. At the thought of being forced to stand even one second longer in the blazing sun, Faith beat her fist harder against the solid oak door. It was standing in between her and Adam. That was unacceptable. She waited a moment longer. When she thought she’d throw her arms up in defeat, the door swung open. A disgruntled-looking Adam stared out at her. Faith let her eyes travel the length of him. His hair stood on end and his shirtless state threatened to make her swallow her tongue. His chest and stomach appeared as if they’d been carved from stone. The baggy gray shorts he wore, might have at one time been sweatpants. That is, before someone took a pair of scissors to them. They were more appealing than the most expensive of suits. Holy shit. She had to tear her eyes away. Not hers.

Faith was almost certain she’d pulled Adam away from his workout by her incessant knocking. Unfortunately, he was so goddamn yummy she forgot why she was there. She was staring at the line of hair that disappeared beneath his waistband until he cleared his throat. Damn it. She thought she’d already forced her eyes away. Nope. She was still gazing at the deep lines etched into his stomach. Lifting her gaze back to his, Adam’s eyebrows rose in question, but his smoke-colored eyes distracted her once more.

“I’m assuming this has something to do with Serenity,” he said, when she remained silent. Oh yes, Serenity, Faith reminded herself. She was here about the sister who’d snagged him.

   AUTHOR BIO

Charity Parkerson is an award winning and multi-published author with Ellora's Cave Publishing, Midnight Books, and Punk & Sissy Publications. Born with no filter from her brain to her mouth, she decided to take this odd quirk and insert it in her characters.

*2014 Golden Ankh nominee *Winner of 2, 2014 Readers' Favorite Awards *2013 Readers' Favorite Award Winner *2013 Reviewers' Choice Award Winner *ARRA Finalist for Favorite Paranormal Romance *Five-time winner of The Mistress of the Darkpath AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS

Amazon Author Page – Website/Blog – Facebook – Twitter – Google+ - Pinterest – Tumblr – Networked Blogs – Goodreads – Shelfari – Others – Ellora’s Cave - Passionate Ink

   GIVEAWAY

$5.00 USD Amazon gift card

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Book Blast & Interview: Fallen by @LauryFalter

 

Fallen

Guardian Trilogy

Book 1

Laury Falter

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy Romance

Publisher: Audeamus LLC

Date of Publication: April 1, 2009

ISBN: 978-0-9855110-3-6

ASIN: B00280MFEY

Number of pages: 274 pages

Book Description:

Fallen - the first book in the Guardian Trilogy...

Maggie is unaware of the terrifying fate that awaits her. It isn’t until she lands in New Orleans for a full year at a private high school and her unknown enemies find her does she realize that her life is in danger.

As a mystifying stranger repeatedly intervenes and blocks the attempts on her life, she begins to learn that there is more to him than his need to protect her and that he may be the key to understanding why her enemies have just now arrived.

Available at Amazon Audible

 

“I apologize for the delay, Abaddon.”

I turned my head to find Eran standing beside me, no more than a few inches away.

Excitement swelled inside me, so powerful I couldn’t have contained it if I’d wanted to. The nervousness now displayed on Abaddon’s face gave me even stronger encouragement.

I wanted so desperately to reach out and wrap my arms around Eran, wanted it more than anything in the world. My desperate yearning was only being held back because I still couldn’t move.

I’m not sure Eran would have allowed it anyways. He was a warrior, and he was now engaged in battle. Besides, I was nothing more to him than someone to save.

Eran didn’t look my way but kept his focus on Abaddon, who stepped back a few paces, his confidence faltering.

It was Sarai who strolled forward, self-assured, placing herself in the middle.

As she strolled by Abaddon, she mused, “Don’t worry, I believe I can handle this one.” Her face curled up into a hideous grin as she continued her approach.

I knew then what she planned…but it was too late.

“Eran, so good to see you again…” she whispered in a low drawl.

“No!” I screamed enraged, waiting for Eran to fall to the ground, whimpering with desperation as Rufus had done.

Eran remained standing.

A moment passed and Sarai’s face contorted, confusion setting in. Her state of shock became more defined, deepening further when he finally replied.

“You don’t work on me, Sarai…” I watched in disbelief as his gorgeous smirk, the one I missed so deeply, rose up. Eran turned and his stunning eyes settled on me, concentrating so intently I could not have mistaken his message. “I’m already in love.”

The world changed for me at that moment. As Eran’s confession hung in the air, I felt the passion and the power in me swell. Nothing was impossible now.

Sarai’s mouth fell open, a shaken sigh escaping. She then looked at me, her eyes narrowing in fury as Eran’s words sunk in.

Eran flippantly disregarded her, turning to address Abaddon. “You are outnumbered. You are overpowered. You have allowed yourself to be cornered. Shoddy work, Abaddon.”

As I watched their interaction, it dawned on me that Eran was enjoying this moment and that it appeared to have been long overdue. I felt a smile on my lips, nearly causing me to giggle.

It was then Abaddon released me. I fell to the ground, hitting it hard but overwhelmed with relief. I glanced up, wondering what power Eran had over Abaddon to give up his hold on me.

In an instant, I realized what had happened.

Abaddon had let me go willingly. He needed his energy – all of it – for another reason…

Leaning forward, Abaddon’s arms extended, his feet sweeping up from the ground, as he lunged for Eran.

Reviews

"Fast-paced, the story starts off strong and retains a tight rein on the momentum throughout. This book mixes humor, mystery, and the supernatural into a satisfying blend that should appeal to both young and more mature readers." ~Coffee Time Romance Review

"Great flow of interest and most unusual characters (that you will love as I have). I have laughed out loud at some of them. Good, simple, fast read that has a great hook, line and sinker." ~Great Minds Think Aloud Review

"A very good read with interesting characters and a quick pace." ~Life Is Better With Books Review

"While I was given the first book I just bought the 2nd one, Eternity, and plan to start it tonight." ~The Book Hookup

 

Character Name: Magdalene

Character Bio: Maggie has moved from city to city every three months since she was an infant until landing in New Orleans to finish high school at a private academy. She has no idea her enemies have hunted her for years, that she is married to her eternal love, or that she is the last of her kind.

If you can add a dreamcast pic of the character that would be greatJ

Describe yourself what is your worst and Best quality? Well, my quality that comes to mind is both a curse and a gift. Visiting the afterlife while you sleep can be a major pain, and yet it brings so much happiness to others when I’m able to deliver messages to their dead loved ones. It’s a toss-up. You might think I’m unappreciative about my ability, and that’s just fine if you do, but it’s not as easy as you might think to grow up wondering why you’re seeing people regularly in your “dreams” who you know to be fully, completely, unalterably dead. And then try to live a normal life. I say good luck.

What is the one thing you wish other people knew about you? I really couldn’t care less what other people know about me. I don’t care to share any secret details and, of the things they can see about me outright, they can go ahead and think what they want. I’m not in the habit of trying to fit in by making myself seem typical.

What is your biggest secret something no one knows about? Plenty of people have tried to fabricate rumors about me, but the ones who really care, the ones who I keep close, are the ones who find out my secrets by getting to know me.

What are you most afraid of? I’m slightly hesitant to mention them, because I don’t like to think of myself as fearful of anything. But if I had to put a point on it, if I were pressed for an answer, it would be the Fallen Ones, the ones who have hunted me since the day I was born.

What do you want more than anything? For Eran and everyone else to be safe from my enemies. I’m terrified that they will be harmed, or worse, because they are involved in my life.

What is your relationship status? In love, deep and permanent love.

How would you describe your sense of fashion? Easy. I have a closet full of band t-shirts and jeans, and not much else, and I dress each day by picking whichever shirts and jeans happen to be on top of the pile. Then I top off my wardrobe with my always trusty biker boots, with steel-reinforced toes. Very helpful for when riding my Harley Davidson motorcycle to school.

How much of a rebel are you? I wouldn’t consider myself a rebel, although others might argue for it. The Warden (my principal) comes to mind. I don’t try to create chaos. In fact, I do my best to avoid it. But it’s never far behind once the Fallen Ones find me.

What do you considered to be your greatest achievement? Surviving until high school. Imagine a band of marauding lunatics bent on killing you, perpetually hunting you from city to city, and you innocently evading them. I’d say that’s quite an impressive feat.

What is your idea of happiness? Existing with Eran in whichever world we choose, without fear of the Fallen Ones returning.

What is your current state of mind? Agitated. I’m not fond of interviews. I’d much rather be the one asking the questions, which is probably why I excel at recording and delivering messages to those in the afterlife. If it wasn’t for Ezra’s tenacity and enthusiasm for it, I would have declined this one too.

What is your most treasured possession? My Harley Davidson motorcycle. It has unerringly delivered me to any place I have wished to go. And it makes enough noise to bring up a frown on The Warden’s face.

What is your most marked characteristic? I’m short. I suppose that would be my greatest distinction. No one would ever guess that my little frame could pack a good punch. And that’s a good advantage in a fight.

What is it that you most dislike? The existence of Fallen Ones. Plain and simple. They take the top slot. Because of all the pain and suffering they bring to so many innocents. Being required to have a guardian because of them comes up a close second. If it weren’t for Fallen Ones there would be no ongoing (mis)perception that a guardian is necessary for a messenger. I don’t need one, I don’t want one, I never will. Again, plain and simple. But I have one, because of them.

Which living person do you most despise? Abaddon. Always and without fail, Abaddon. Every action he makes is designed to hurt and ultimately to destroy. I’m not worried about me, however, even if his efforts have always been to aim his destruction at me. I worry about everyone around me, and what he might do to them if he catches them with their guard down.

What is your greatest regret? That others’ wellbeing are continually in jeopardy because of me. Being around me is like a time bomb, although you never hear the ticking, so you don’t know when everything around me will explode or even that it will explode. And when it does, I’m not always successful in protecting them.

What is the quality you most like in a man? Reserved confidence. The man I love isn’t boastful or vain. He doesn’t require congratulations or compliments. He doesn’t need it. His actions come from doing what he can for others, not for himself.

What is the quality you most like in a woman? Ezra comes to mind, and what I like about her is her unwavering support. No matter what choices I make, or how badly they turn out, she has never once punished me for them. She offers guidance and then let’s me make my own decisions. Sink or swim, it’s always up to me then.

Who is your favorite hero in fiction? If you look closely at historical fiction, there are stories about my guardian, ones that the authors didn’t know originated from truth. What he has done has been passed down from generation to generation until they became more fiction than fact, and his persona has been divided into multiple characters, because it seems implausible that one man could have done it all. But some legendary figures lauded for legendary acts did take place and he does exist. His name is Eran.

Which living person do you most admire? See my answer above. It’s the same.

If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be? I’m fairly happy with myself, all things considered. On a superficial level, my eyes seem a bit too big and my height feels a little stunted, but neither of those are devastating. On a metaphysical level, I’d like to have been given a choice on whether to have the gift to travel between dimensions. But what good comes from crying over spilled milk? In general, I think it’s easiest to just appreciate what I do have and not what I don’t.

What is your motto? You can’t live your life by other people’s expectations of you. Your friends won’t care one way or another and your enemies will never be impressed.

 

 

 

Laury Falter is a bestselling author of young adult romantic suspense and urban fantasy. She has three series out: the Guardian Trilogy, the Residue Series, and the Apocalypse Chronicles.

Website: http://www.lauryfalter.com

Twitter page: http://www.twitter.com/LauryFalter

Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Laury-Falter/196033543803745

Goodreads page: http://www.goodreads.com/lauryfalter

Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: The Sextape: A Dedication to the Ladies by @NoReligionNYC

Presented by: Title: The Sextape: A Dedication to the Ladies Author: Peprah Boasiako Audience: Adult/Erotica Genre: Erotic Romance/Erotica Formats: E-book and Paperback Publisher: Peprah Boasiako Cover by: Melisa Alverez Editor: Jerry Shaw Pages: 250 pages ISBN: 978-1-63315-722-4 ASIN: B00IVNZWWE Date Published: March 1st, 2014     CAUTION: VERY SEXUALLY EXPLICIT CONTENT “Bye, I wanna do this again sometime.” I can still see Jordan, standing barefooted in the doorway of her apartment, in nothing but an over-sized white t-shirt, her words laced with giggles as she saw me off. In the background, Emma in her birthday suit, winked and waved goodbye without a care in the world. It was as if she was roaming about some nude beach. THE SEXTAPE is a collection of four very detailed and highly explicit erotica short stories. Based partially on actual events, every scene in this book is set in a different environment, with different scenarios and different characters. From the ex-lover (MJ) to the cougar (Maria) to the threesome (Jordan & Emma), The Sextape is filled with enough detail that's sure to get your juices flowing. DARE TO PRESS PLAY Amazon / Goodreads

The More the Merrier “Bye, I wanna do this again sometime.” I can still see Jordan, standing barefooted in the doorway of her apartment, in nothing but an oversized white t-shirt, her words laced with giggles as she saw me off. In the background, Emma in her birthday suit, winked and waved goodbye without a care in the world. It was as if she was roaming about some nude beach. Hmmm, had I made the right decision, leaving these two sexy ladies alone in that apartment? I wondered as I stood in the lobby, waiting for the elevator. Many a man dreams and fantasizes about bedding two women at the same time but not enough men can say they’ve lived that fantasy or seen their dream come true. Last night was indeed one hell of a night, a night I’ll surely be crossing out on my growing fantasy list. It was only right that I saved the best scene for last. My experience with these two young, exotic beauties was just too special to spoil prematurely. And I used the word exotic in a descriptive sense, not only because of their physical beauty but also because of their uncommon breed differences. Jordan and Emma were special in the sense that they were the oddball type women that a man isn’t liable to meet everyday. Let’s start with Emma. In her early twenties, twenty five to be exact, Emma was a tasty blend of Latino and Italian; two of the sexiest cultures on the face of this planet we call earth. In my opinion anyway. A shade darker than a tanned Caucasian skin, she could easily be mistaken with being of African-American descent. Emma had this wide jawline that gave her a natural smiley face. Blessed with a face of an angel, Emma also had a pair of the sexiest, most inviting and kissable full lips I’ve ever seen in my thirty years of living. At about 5’3” tall and 120 pounds, she was a bit on the skinny side with long curly mud-brown hair that extended to the small of her back. Emma wasn’t too skinny to boast a 26-inch waist, a 38-inch ass and a pair of 36C round perky breasts. Emma also possessed a pair of the most charming hazel eyes with long natural lashes that many, a woman would kill for. She was quite easy on the eyes with a spoiled and sarcastic personality that could easily be confused with that of a spoiled-rotten offspring of some privileged rich family. If one didn’t know Emma personally, they were liable to dislike her on the merit of her personality alone. That was the case with me until I had the opportunity to spend some time around her. I must say that she’s as friendly and as easygoing as they come. Her sweet feminine ways were just an added bonus to the package. Let me not forget to add that sexy mixed accent of hers that only comes out during those special times. She spoke Italian, Spanish and of course English; and sometimes a mixture of all three, although I wouldn’t recommend becoming the subject of this wild mixture. Emma had modelling potential but every time I suggested a career in modelling, she would deny it as if it’d be the last thing she’d do on earth. I’d later discovered that she finally embraced her modelling side, venturing out into the industry and doing some shoots with a few magazines. Then there was her partner in crime, Jordan. A gorgeous blend of Jamaican and Caucasian, I had met Jordan at a friend’s party one night. Two years Emma’s senior, Jordan stood at about 5’5” tall and 135 pounds, with long bleach-blonde hair that extended just past her shoulders. One could look at Jordan and tell where most of her bodyweight was—her backside. With her round youthful breasts, 28-inch slim waistline, 40-inch ass and a gorgeous face to go with it all, Jordan was the type of female some men would refer to as a dime. What distinguished Jordan from most other mixed females were her high cheekbones and her green eyes, a trait inherited from her Caucasian side. With her sexy curvaceous hourglass figure, Jordan could’ve easily passed for a model out of a magazine like King or Kay Slay’s Straight Stunning. Simply put, Jordan had the type of body that could make a married man divorce his wife at the drop of a dime, with the sex appeal to match. Despite all her physical qualities, Jordan possessed a straightforward but sweet personality, which made her all the more lovable. “Bye, I wanna do this again sometime.” Thinking back to the night we met, I never envisioned myself with Jordan and another beauty in this position. Hell, I was lucky enough to had met Jordan at her cousin Freddy’s party in the first place. If you asked me, I’d say my time with Jordan and Emma was very well deserved, considering that I had courted Jordan for four long months. Yes, I’d put my time in with her and if courting a female like Jordan made me a sucker, then I guess I was a sucker for exotic beauties.

Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?

Response: I wanted to be a doctor but I ended up joining the military at 17. It wasn’t until I was 27 that I started taking my writing seriously.

When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?

Response: In 2013 when I decided to publish my first short story.

How long did it take to get your first book published?

Response: I battled with my demons for three years before deciding to self-publish in 2013.

Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?

Response: As I mentioned earlier, I served five years in the Army but aside from that, I’m a full time college student at DeVry University, majoring in Computer Engineering.

What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?

Response: THE SEXTAPE: A Dedication to the Ladies. It’s my first attempt and it turned out to be a collection of six very detailed and explicit erotica short stories.

Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?

Response: I’m my own publisher (self-publishing) but I’m hoping for a contract in the future.

How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?

Response: Typically, anywhere between six to eight months.

What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?

Response: Definitely more books in the genre of crime fiction. My upcoming project, Back 2 My Rootz is scheduled for an early 2015 release.

What genre would you place your books into?

Response: As a writer, one thing I try to avoid is being placed in a box. I believe I can write about any topic as long as I have enough information. With that said, I’ve written a crime thriller, an erotica and my next few projects are crime/urban fiction.

Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?

Response: My favorite character thus far is a female character named Maria from my latest erotica novel, The Sextape. I like Maria because she is a strong, smart, confident, independent and sexy woman who knows what she wants and goes after it.

How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?

Response: As I mentioned earlier, I started taking my writing seriously about three years ago. As far as inspiration, I was doing a lot of reading and thought that I could compete with some of the authors I was reading so I decided to start writing.

Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?

Response: I like to take a walk while listening to my headphones at a loud volume before I write. I also like to eat ice cream before, during and after writing. Every now and then I’ll have a drink if the scene calls for it.

Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?

Response: Indeed I do! I like to know the things I did right or wrong so I can improve upon them, and most importantly, how my readers respond to my writing.

Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?

Response: I’ve always chosen my titles first then write the stories.

How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?

Response: They usually come randomly and I just make sure that they fit the character’s role.

Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?

Response: Sometimes, but I’ve done it the other way around as well.

Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?

Response: I’ve done it both ways in the past, but I’d say now that I’m developing my skill that I like to build the characters before I get deep into the story.

Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?

Response: I’ll have to go with paperback but technology is making e-books more efficient in a lot of ways.

What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once?

Response: I don’t have a single favorite book but I do have a series, which is The Cartel series by authors Ashley & JaQuavis. It’s a five book crime series.

Your favorite food is?

Response: Caribbean, oxtail with white rice.

Your favorite singer/group is?

Response: I’m a big fan of reggae music and my favorite singer of all time is the late Great Bob Marley.

Your favorite color is?

Response: Black.

Your favorite Author is?

Response: Crime novelist K’wan Foye, author of the Animal series.

 

 

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A veteran of the United States Army, Peprah Boasiako was born and raised in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, in Western Africa. He migrated to the United States in the year 2000, as a teenager. Peprah is currently a student of Computer Engineering Technology at DeVry University in New York City. He spends his 'free' time writing fiction and learning the craft of acting. Peprah likes to think he is capable of venturing out to restricted territories in his writing. Peprah is also a sports freak and a big dreamer.

 

 Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Amazon / Instagram

 

Tour Schedule - One Week Blog Tour for The Sextape: A Dedication to the Ladies by Peprah Boasiako. From Dec 8 to 16 Dec 2014 Dec 8 Book Geek – Promo & Review http://www.bookgeekuk.com Patricia D. Eddy – Promo http://www.pdeddy.com The Adult Cover (And Everything in Between) – Promo & Guest Post http://theadultcoverbybritt.blogspot.com/ Dec 9 A Cauldron of Books – Promo & Review http://acauldronofbooks.info Booky Ramblings of a Neurotic Mom – Promo http://bookyramblingsofaneuroticmom.blogspot.co.uk/ G & Co. Book Blog – Promo http://www.ggwblogs.blogspot.com Dec 10 Angels with Attitude Book Reviews – Promo & Author Interview http://angelswithattitudebookreviews-joelle.blogspot.com Indy Book Fairy - Promo http://paranormalbookfairy.blogspot.com/ Dec 11 Rustys Reading - Promo http://www.rustysreading.blogspot.com Portals To New Worlds – Promo And Author Interview http://authorkarenswart.blogspot.com Dec 12 The Avid Reader – Promo & Author Interview http://the-avidreader.blogspot.com Eclipse Reviews – Promo & Character Interview http://eclipsereviews.weebly.com Dec 15 Bound by Books Book Review – Promo & Review http://www.boundbybooksbookreview.com Stories and Swag! - Promo & Review http://storiesandswag.blogspot.com Dec 16 Fictional Rendezvous Book Blog - Promo & Review http://fictionalrendezvousbookblog.blogspot.com/ Sassy Southern Book Blog – Promo http://sassysouthernbookblog.com/

Book Blast & Giveaway: Dragon and Flame by @ZoePerdita

 

 

Dragon and Flame

Haven City Series

Book 6

Zoe Perdita

Genre: Gay romance, shifter romance

Publisher: Eccentric Erotica

Date of Publication: Sept. 29, 2014

ISBN: 1502525526

ASIN: B00O0GS1PG

Number of pages: 260 in print

Word Count: 62,000

Cover Artist: Zoe Perdita

Book Description:

Rory Sullivan thinks he has it all, until his boyfriend breaks his heart and the new landlord raises the rent on his bar. A chance meeting with Jin Yue, a rich dragon, gives Rory hope. Jin promises Rory he can save the bar and get even with his ex – for a price.

All Rory has to do is pretend to be in a relationship with Jin. Rory’s bad boy nature, and the desire for some no-strings-attached sex make the idea way too intriguing. Even if Rory’s brain thinks it’s a bad idea, his cock heartily disagrees.

Problem is, Jin Yue might be all kinds of hot, but he’s also Haven City’s one and only crime boss – sexy, powerful and deadly. Now Rory is tied to Jin until the dragon’s mission is complete, regardless of assassination attempts, hunters or the cops.

Jin Yue won the gang war, but the battle for Haven City isn’t over.

Enter Rory Sullivan – the tatted up fire mage who can help Jin lay claim to his rightful territory. However, things don’t turn out the way Jin plans. Rory pushes all the right buttons and riles up Jin’s dragon instincts. The fire mage is the farthest thing from Jin’s type, but the heat between them sets Jin’s blood on fire.

They’re playing a dangerous game that puts both of their hearts and lives on the line. While the passion between Jin and Rory sizzles, can a relationship built on deceit grow into something more?

Warning: contains violence and graphic gay sex scenes.

Available at Amazon BN ARe Google Play

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Zoe Perdita writes gay shifter romance because the only thing better than one hot shifter dude is two hot shifter dudes making out.

She lives in the Pacific Northwest with a fluffy orange cat and a lively roommate. When she's not writing, Zoe likes to travel, read and play video games.

Blog: http://www.zoeperdita.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ZoePerdita

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zoe.perdita

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5877921.Zoe_Perdita

Book Blast: Hunters by @aoifesheri

 

Hunters

Book One

Aoife Marie Sheridan

Genre: Paranormal, Romance

ISBN: 9781495430725

Word Count: 62,000

Cover Artist: Airicka’s Mystical Creations

Book Description:

Abigail is nineteen, her job she hunts demons.

Her life so far has been tough, having witnessed her family’s death and her mother’s suicide she’s taken in by a priest, who believes her when she says she sees ghosts. Father Peter trains her as a demon hunter with three other members, one being Daniel, who isn’t what he seems.

But when a possession goes wrong, and ghosts start to attack Abigail, the tight rope she had on her emotions soon starts to loosen.

Abigail draws the unwanted attention of the Vatican, and she finds out a lot more then she was willing to learn.

Knowledge is power, but for Abigail it’s her undoing, and the only thing keeping her together is Daniel.

Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/7KT2Xy6hh7k

Available at Amazon

Prologue

I sat outside her apartment like I did every night, keeping an eye on her door.

Watching.

Waiting.

I knew the day would come and I wanted to be ready. One thing I knew, he would never take her from me, he would have to get through me first. A small smile crept over my face, how I would love to tear him apart. I growled, feeling frustrated; he was one of the main threats now and I needed to eliminate him. I pushed off the wall, pulling my black hoodia closer to my eyes, a few people were around, but none paying attention to me, they were too transfixed on their own wants; a syringe giving them a pass on reality, or an encounter with a female making the sounds of pleasure heighten. I pushed all the noises aside and focused. She was moving around, her angry footsteps hitting the wooden floor in her bathroom. The water turned on, my body came alive, the want for her was too much at times and I growled for a second time.

“You okay, Man?” a junky asked from a few feet away from me, I didn’t give him an answer, just threw him a look to silence his talk. I couldn’t understand why she lived here. Maybe the chaos made her feel more normal, but that was something she would never be. A hiss made my head jerk up and then her intake of breath. My hands balled into fists, I wanted to go to her and take the razor from her hand, but I couldn’t, she would hate it if I knew. It was her own release, I didn’t understand it fully, but it made her focus on the pain instead of the real problem. A cold breeze made me study the door that led into the apartment buildings more closely; it wasn’t just cold it was ice cold.

“Nicolas!” I whispered and moved across the thirty paces that stood between her door and me in a second. I didn’t care if anyone saw, they were too far gone to understand, they would assume it was their drugged up minds seeing things. The air in my lungs now was freezing; I could feel him coming. I felt the excitement bubble inside me, a fire raged through my veins as he materialized before me. I didn’t give him a moment, but pulled the sword from the air and swung for his neck, he was quick; ducking and coming up with his own sword, they met with a loud clang.

“Daniel, great to see you.” his hard face was set like stone, his black eyes wanting blood, not mine but hers. I let the anger boil and withdrew my sword, striking his with all my force, it met its target and he stumbled back, but he regained his footing quickly. Allowing him to come at me with his body weight behind his swing, I dodged to the side in a blur and arched my sword, swinging for his back, but it met the metal of his own sword.

“Have we been practicing?” I asked in a mocking tone while taking another swing.

“Maybe you just lost your touch,” he spat back and struck my sword, metal struck metal and small pieces of ice flew towards me, I moved but a few struck my left arm, piercing me like small pieces of glass. I ignored the pain and gave him a sneer.

“Playing dirty, are we?” I asked, letting the fire heat my blade until it grew red.

“You never play nice, Daniel.” Nicolas face radiated the hate he has for me, and I returned it, letting my sword burn before I took a swipe, knowing he would block it. So I did what he wouldn’t expect, I slide towards him on the partially frozen ground and passed his legs in a blur, cutting below his knee before flipping up and swinging my sword at his back, it sliced into his flesh and he roared in pain, falling to his knees. I raised my sword, aiming for his neck, it swung high into the air, the red flame lighting up the sky, but before it made contact, he disappeared. I stood there for a moment, my blood still boiling with adrenaline. However, it fizzled and the pain in my arm came alive. Rain started to pour, and I let my sword dissolve along with my anger. He wouldn’t be coming back tonight and I needed to rest and heal. My phone buzzed as I moved away from the door.

“Daniel,” Father Peter’s voice filled my ear.

“Yeah, you got a job for me?” I asked, pulling the hoodie over my face again as I walked deeper into the shadows.

“It’s a possession; I don’t want her doing it alone.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll pick her up, I’m in the area anyway.”

I could hear him sigh with relief; he cared about her more than I had believed at the start. I was about to hang up when he spoke again.

“Thank you, Daniel. I’ll ring her now.”

“Okay, No problem.” I said before ending the call. I hadn’t gone far before the heavy rain stopped. A freak shower. I took off at the speed of light to change and get my bike, before I picked her up, she would be pissed, I smiled. She was always pissed.

Chapter One

The possession

I clicked my Nokia cell phone shut while stuffing it back into my worn, brown leather jacket pocket. Slamming the door behind me, I bounded down the hard brown tiled steps out the main door. The surface outside my door made me glide and I nearly lost my balance. Ice coated the path in front of the main door, in June? That didn’t make sense. I stepped off the icy path and took the alleyway out of my apartment building. No street lights lit up the small and dirty path, which was wedged in-between the two red large brick buildings. The path was littered with beer bottles and household rubbish, and grass sprang up amongst the cracks in the pavement. It was a run-down dive.

The building on my left was home to me, number 22 is my own place, it wasn’t much, but like I said it was mine, and that’s all that mattered to me. The other building was full of unknown people, who I had no intentions to get to know. I spent fifty percent of my time here and fifty percent of my time at the base, or the headquarters for us demon hunters. In the London area, we were the only group and within it, there were five of us, including Father Peter; the man who took me in and raised me. The man who had saved us all from ourselves. We all had our reasons and stories for becoming hunters, each one as depressing as the next.

The Base became home to most of us, but I spent the least amount of time. Cathy, Zee, and Father Peter lived there permanently, but Simon stayed between the base and his brothers, he was lucky enough to still have people, who cared about him. The rest of us just learned to accept each other as a family, as our own blood relatives were either dead or didn’t want anything to do with us.

I was the only one with no living family and who chose to live by themselves. For me, being around people; having to smile and interact was too hard. I pretended to be normal most of the day, but once I was home, I could let the mask slip and be myself. I wouldn’t be able to keep the pretense up twenty four hours a day, and lately, it was becoming harder to pretend that everything was normal. My pride was becoming my weakness. I needed people really, but I refused to give in.

The noise of my black military boots, splashing in large size puddles that had filled from the recent downpour, pulled me back from my thoughts, my black jeans were tucked neatly inside my boots, keeping them dry. I shivered now against the wind that whipped at my face, pulling strands of my long, straight, black hair out of the bun that I had so tightly wound it in, it never stayed put, its shiny silky tendrils finding an escape route too easily. I pushed some of the strands out of my deep, brown eyes and pulled my jacket tighter around my small frame. The black top, I wore under my jacket, was light and the cold air raced through it, rising goose bumps in its way. I scolded myself for not dressing in warmer clothes, but Father Peter had just called and I didn’t have time to change. The job was urgent, so I would have to do as I was.

I walked faster, keeping a look out over my left shoulder. One thing Father Peter always told me with a weary look on his face, “Always fear the living more than the dead.” Some days, I questioned his theory, but on nights like these, I had to agree. I glanced to my left as soft moans from two men caught my attention. One had a belt tightened around his upper arm as the other watched with anticipated glee. The man slapped his arm, making the veins rise, before inserting the syringe full of Heroin, More bruises than I could count coated his arm, his body slumped as his drug of choice fuelled his body into oblivion. His companion took the syringe and with greedy eyes, started to prep himself but paused as he saw me pass, I dropped my eyes, and he grunted before continuing. A gunshot resounded somewhere in a distance apartment building, the squeal of sirens soon followed.

My heart skipped a beat as my phone rang loudly. My hand, now cold and blue, hurt as I reached into my pocket to retrieve it, brushing my knuckles off the steal zip that was like razor blades against my cold pale skin. I pushed the phone to my ear not looking at the caller ID; I already know who it was.

“Zee, I’m kind of busy so you’ll have to make it quick.” I already knew what he was calling for, but I was a sucker for the impossible.

“Me too, funny that is?” I could hear the smirk in his voice. I normally never worked alone, but after the nightmares that woke me up, I didn’t want to see Zee tonight, never mind work with him, he was always centered in my nightmares.

“Hilarious, I am holding my sides.” I said as dryly as possible, hoping he would catch on quick to my bad mood. That was one thing I loved about Zee; I could be myself around him and I didn’t have to pretend to be okay. My silence never bothered him; he never once forced me to speak about what was on my mind. Yet, I often felt that he knew exactly what I was thinking. I turned a corner out of the alleyway and my body relaxed, happy to be out of the danger zone. I had come across a bit of trouble at times and especially at nighttime, when a more sinister scene developed around our complex. But what did I expect? A woman or a girl on her own, well, it all depended on what way you looked at me, I was only nineteen, but I had seen my fair share in life. I was a target for loiters, they never harmed me, just shouted abuse or made suggestive remarks. It didn’t scare me, that’s why I still walked through it and used it as a shortcut, I just hoped I would never regret all the warnings that Zee gave me. However, it did save me a twenty-minute walk through the apartment complex so that was good enough for me.

***

The roar of a motorcycle made my body tense, but as it tore up beside me, I recognized the shining/shiny black bike and its driver. Closing the phone roughly, I stuffed it back in my pocket and took the outstretched helmet that Zee held out to me. Putting it on, I took in his appearance as I clipped it shut. He wore the usual black pants; black high neck top, boots, and a long black trench coat that I knew hide all his tools. His sharp blue eyes studied me as I clipped the helmet firmly to my head. He didn’t wear a helmet, but let his black hair that sat below his jaw line hang down across his forehead.

“Father Peter?” I asked as I climbed on while lacing my arms around him. Once again, I already knew the answer, of course Father Peter had rang him and asked him to go with me, it wasn’t a good time for me, and Father Peter would do anything to make sure I was alright.

He gave me one of his smirks, “No, my crystal ball.” He jammed down on the accelerator and we took off at full speed.

I was getting sick of this; always needing a babysitter, the sad part was that deep down I knew I needed one, as I wasn’t my usual strong self, and Zee was never one to walk away from me. If he could, he would be glued to my side at all times, but as I much as I needed Zee, I always needed my space too.

We didn’t speak over the roar of the engine or the fact that Zee was dodging cars at full speed. A flash of a speed camera glinted off his helmet, he could paper a room with all the tickets he had, but in our line of work, Father Peter had the power to make them disappear. He had warned Zee that he was no longer going to sort out his mess and that he needed to slow down, but by the way he was driving, he didn’t heed one word that Father Peter had said. Typical.

We pulled up to a rundown block of houses; all identical in structure down to the overhead porch that acted as a shelter for its occupants from the harsh rain as they entered their homes. I could see the dark pavement under some of the porches, so much for the shelter, the dripping of water from the small roof suggested plenty of cracks in the old structures. The gardens were small and no flowers or bushes of any sorts colored them. They all looked grey and gloomy. This should be fun, I thought to myself. I climbed off and left the helmet on the seat.

I moved towards number 44, the house that Father Peter had sent me too, I stood at the little rusty gate and took it in. It was a two-story, standard house, white dash that no longer looked white, and brown PVC windows and door. It was clean, but like all the rest, bland and depressing looking. I moved towards the house, up the small pavement that divided the medium size lawn on either side, Zee followed behind, his coat flapping in the wind. I could only imagine what we looked like, what people must think when they called for help, and two teenagers dressed all in black, ready for action arrived at their door.

Well, Zee’s height helped his cause, he was 6ft four so he looked older, and he acted far older than his years.

At the first knock, a man opened the door, nearly making me fall into the hall with the quickness of his answer, Zee’s hand moved to my waist steadying me. I looked up at the man in annoyance, but he didn’t seem to notice. The bags under his eyes had bags, his complexion was paler than what would be considered normal, but really, what was considered normal these days? He wore simple jeans, a shirt that was stained under the arms from sweat long dried in; his stomach bulged ever so slightly against the shirt, causing strain on the three lower buttons. My eyes moved to his feet that tapped nervously on the carpet, and I was greeted with his big toe poking out of a hole in his sock. I looked back up at his brown eyes as they shifted nervously from me to Zee, but then they stopped moving and he stood back to let us in, no questions asked.

We entered into a small hallway, a brown carpet that looked like it had its day lined the floor, and an off white was painted on the walls, with the happy family pictures hanging throughout.

***

“Where is she?” I asked as I laid out my roll of equipment on a hall table, it was the only piece of furniture in the hall so it had to do. Taking a cross out of my pack, I poured holy water over it, splashing some on the hall table and the carpet. A small price to pay for us saving his daughter’s soul, rolling the rest back up, I placed it back into my jacket and tucked the bible under my arm.

“This way.” The man said looking ready to bolt but thought otherwise. He stood at the third door down the hallway; Zee placed his hand on the door, and then gave me a nod, letting me know that we had the right house. I moved towards the door, but before I turned the handle, I turned back to the man.

“How long has she been like this?” I asked as Zee got himself ready, Father Peter didn’t give many details, he just needed me to get there as quick as possible.

Tears filled the man’s eyes, “A week, maybe two.” At least, it didn’t have a long time to fester. I gave Zee a nod just as I turned the door handle and entered the darken room. Light hurts them so I switched it on and let it flood the space. It was a standard sized bedroom, nothing special about it; a wardrobe rested against one wall, it once had been white but with time, it had faded. My eyes moved to the locker that was pine, it was bare of any ornaments and sat tightly against the single bed that the girl lay on. Her body was partially naked and her long blonde hair was stuck to her neck with sweat, I couldn’t make out her features as her face was no-more human looking than the hands that rested on her swollen abdominal. I turned to the man to give him a piece of my mind for leaving such a small detail out, but he had bolted, leaving us here with his pregnant and possessed daughter.

Words of another language and another time came out of the girl’s mouth, more than likely cursing us into the ground or into hell.

Zee’s hands moved robotically, taking items out of his trench coat, he placed two small white candles on the window sill, but didn’t light them, they were a just in case. He stayed close to them, but leaned against the wall, he looked so large in the small room.

“Do you want to do it or shall I?” I asked.

I always gave him the option, he did most of the work, but I hated tiring him out.

He gave me the once over, considering if I was strong enough. “You go ahead, I’ll observe,” He finally answered.

Moving towards the girl caused the demon inside her to rev up, making the girl’s body ti move at all the wrong angles.

I splashed her with the holy water, it bubbled up on her skin, the vapor rising and disappearing, a hiss left her mouth, and more words followed. Taking out the bible, I turned to the page where the most powerful prayer lay, holding the cross steadily in my hands I started:

We drive you from us,

Whoever you may be,

Unclean spirits,

All satanic powers,

All infernal invaders,

All wicked legions,

Assemblies and sects.

In the Name, and by the power of Our Lord Jesus Christ,

May you be snatched away and driven from the Church of God,

And from the souls made to the image and likeness of God,

And redeemed by the Precious Blood of the Divine Lamb.

The sound of laughter made me stop. As the demon over took the girl’s face completely, my heart rate elevated. Zee, quick to act, lit two candles, knowing what was to come as the light bulb brightened, casting a blinding light in the room before it burnt itself out with a hiss, and small shards of glass flew across the room. I covered my face, protecting it from the onslaught of the flying glass. Small cuts across my hands stung and warm blood slid slowly across my fingers. I took my hands away, ignoring the pain. The flames from the small candles that Zee had lit danced across the room but gave little light. Not being able to see fully, always made a possession more frightening, no matter how many times I did it, it never got easier.

“A-b-i-g-a-i-l.” the demon hissed inside the girl, slowly stretching my name, but I heard it. My body responded, causing me to stumble back, never before had a demon or spirit spoke my name. I stood paralyzed.

“Abigail,” This time it was Zee who called my name and I could hear the warning in his voice. I needed to continue. I sucked in a deep breath, and wiped the blood from my hands onto my jeans, I started the prayer again, saying it faster, and louder, my voice trembled slightly. I felt shook up after hearing that thing say my name. The demon inside the girl roared to life and squirmed with a voracity that shook the bed savagely. The bed’s thin, wooden legs slammed into the carpet, the noise drowning out my words, but I didn’t stop, I couldn’t stop for fear of what might happen. I continued, as a few pictures fell from the walls, their frames snapping with the impact and the glass shattering across our feet. The curtains billowed now from an unseen wind, the bed continued to move rapidly, and the large wardrobe shook violently. Its doors swinging open and closed, the sharp bang lifting my heart every time. Zee stood protecting the candles from the breeze that raced through the room, carrying the foul stench of an unwashed body. I spoke louder closing my eyes, forcing myself to stay focused, even against the activity in the room. I clung to the cross. As my grip tightened, it caused my cuts to bleed, coating my hand once again with blood. I could feel the cross slipping, and soon my hand was empty. The slamming of the wardrobe doors was getting faster and louder, the bed hit the floor harder, the wood snapping against the strain, small splinters of wood breaking free, and scattering across the floor.

Then everything ceased, silence fell upon the room, my breathing moved in and out of my nostrils, sounding so loud in the dead silence.

“Dad?” The one word was filled with fear and confusion, and had come from the young girl; her voice broke through my numbness and fear.

I moved towards her slowly, looking at her face, she looked normal again; pale yet terrified, but normal. I smiled the best I could at her confused face, hoping to give her comfort. She met my eyes with big blue ones of her own, ones she must have inherited from her mother as her father had those muddy brown eyes. She was only about sixteen so young and pregnant; a ray of freckles covered her nose and cheeks.

“Hi, my name is Abigail, your dad called us, you were sick.” I said

She looked around the room for her father, I gave Zee a nod to go get him, and he hesitated, looking at the girl for a moment.

“It’s fine, Zee, she’s okay.” I assured him.

He left hesitantly at my words.

“What’s your name?” I asked, moving closer, trying to halt all the questions that I knew must be going around in her head right now. Once someone was possessed, they could never remember the ordeal. It was for the best or lots of people would never sleep again.

“Lucy.” she said, still looking around the room that was only lit now by candle light.

“Lucy, that’s a pretty name.” I said, she was looking at me as if I was crazy.

“What are you doing in my room? And why is everything such a mess?” she asked, looking at all the frames and shattered glass on the carpet. A logical question, yet I had no logical explanation.

“How far are you gone?” I asked, looking at her stomach; trying to distract her until her dad got here, and he could come up with whatever story he wanted to. She looked down at her belly after hearing my question and her cheeks lit up when she realized she was half-undressed. Fear and confusion filled her face.

“It’s okay, Lucy.” I didn’t get to finish as she started to scream while kicking her legs and pulling the remaining blankets off her, blood started to soak the sheets.

“My baby!” she screamed as Zee and her dad entered the room. I rushed forward, grabbing the blanket; I needed to stop the bleeding, her stomach rippled and I had to blink twice to make sure I was seeing what I was seeing. A hand formed, pushing its way against her stomach, reaching out to me, stretching her skin almost to breaking point. I fell back off the bed, away from the hand, while pulling the blanket with me. The bed started to levitate.

Lucy’s screams and her father’s pleas to save his daughter made the room swarm around me. “Abigail, Abigail,” the voice danced around me, I covered my ears. “No, NO!” Zee’s feet rushed past me and he jumped up on the bed, fighting the hysterical flailing arms that Lucy threw around as her stomach stretched and moved at abnormal angles. The demon had attached itself to the child’s soul. I snapped out of my daze. The cross lay on the ground, its gold surface now tainted with my blood. I grabbed it and jumped up while holding onto the cross for dear life, as Zee placed his hand on Lucy’s stomach, a gust of air ripped through the room, throwing everything into chaos, the candles hit the carpet and distinguished almost immediately, leaving us in darkness. I couldn’t move for a moment, but could only watch as light poured from Zee’s fingertips, blinding all of us. Sound ceased to exist at that moment, while everything around us continued to shake, I could feel the ground under my feet vibrate. Through the light, I could see Lucy was still alert; her mouth open as she screamed in fear and agony. Her eyes wild, the veins bulged in her neck as she continued to scream soundlessly. It was like watching a movie with the sound on mute. A large crack raced down the wall behind the bed, just stopping at the skirting board, and then the room went dark. The world stopped shaking.

“Lucy, Sweetheart, Talk to me” her father’s frightened whispers reached my ears as Zee’s strong arms pulled me into a tight embrace. His smell, his warmth calmed me. His heartbeat pounded against my ear, bringing me back. I look up at him.

“Are you okay?” he asked, I nodded, saying yes, but I was anything but okay.

I pulled away and stood on trembling legs, making my way to the bedroom door, once I opened it, light flittered into the room. I looked at Lucy, her body lay still. She looked snow white against the blood soaked sheets.

The father’s face turned to us tears stricken and red with anger. “What have you done to my baby girl?”

I didn’t reply, but took out my phone, ignoring the trembling in my hands, pausing before making the call, I turned to Zee. “Did we lose the baby?” I asked, he nodded his head, and a pang twisted my heart. “The girl?”

“She’s alive.” he answered and left the room.

I pushed the button and made the dreaded call.

“Father, we need a clean-up team and an ambulance; we have a casualty.” I gave a very short version of events and hung up. Within five minutes, the room was bustling with our fall-out team. I didn’t wait around, but left with Zee out the front door, too tired to wait for the questions that I knew would follow, this was the first casualty I had ever experienced. Well, this was the first time I had dealt with a pregnant teen.

“Abigail and Daniel, what happened here?” I cringed at the sound of Mark’s voice; he was over the clean-up team, I liked him, but I didn’t want to talk right now. Mark was once upon a time a funeral director, but soon, switched jobs when his own daughter was possessed by a demon. His hair now was snow white unusual for a fifty-year-old, but from what he had witnessed, I wasn’t at all surprised. It was a lot for the mind to take in and then to know the truth and live with it was another thing completely. His face was always tanned, no matter what time of the year it was here in London, but it didn’t erase all the wrinkles that covered his face, his eyes were green and didn’t hold much warmth for the world.

“I’m tired; Mark, but I’ll file a full report with Father Peter.” I said, he looked at me for a moment, his eyes falling on my bloody hands, he could see how shook up I looked this was the only thing that saved me, he looked me over once again before giving in.

“Fine, but first thing in the morning.” I nodded, “yeah.”

I climbed onto Zee’s motorcycle numbly, the seat now soaked from the recent rain, I could feel it seep into my jeans, but I didn’t care. I just wanted to go home; at days like this, I just hated my job.

Zee drove with more care on the way back, I wanted him to go faster as the wind was freezing, numbing my hands and face. I wish it could numb my mind right now, but no luck; the images of the blood soaked sheets would be etched in my mind for a long time. My hair scratched my cold face, making me close my eyes tightly as they watered, but each time, I could see the girl’s face and the sheets soaked in blood, I opened my eyes, and everything was blurred. I buried my head in Zee’s jacket, just wishing I was home.

The sound of the engine dying down, alerted me that we had stopped, I was home. Zee had parked just outside my apartment building; I climbed off handing him the helmet.

“I need some time alone, Daniel.” I never used his proper name, but I really wanted to be alone.

“Okay, but if you need me…” I shook my phone at him, my hands trembled slightly so I stuck them back into my pockets to hide them from his watchful eyes, but he had seen the shake in my hands and seen the blood, he wasn’t stupid. “Yeah, I know you’re only a phone call away.” he smiled weakly and turned to go.

“Zee, thanks for helping.” I said, knowing if he wasn’t there, I would have lost two souls and not just one.

“Do you want me to fix your hands?” he asked while looking at my jacket pockets where I had stuffed them in.

“No, it’s only scratches.” I turned and walked into the building. Climbing the steps two at a time, I made it to my door and kicked it shut, while moving through my dark and small apartment, not caring for light. Well, I couldn’t exactly trip over anything since not as much as a rug was in my hallway. I officially never moved in, the only thing I had that was personal was my clothes, and I wanted to keep it that way. Once I reached the small kitchen, I opened the top press, retrieving a bottle of vodka. My phone started to ring just as I was unscrewing the lid. I took a large gulp, letting the vodka leave a burning path down my throat. The persistent ringing got my heart rate elevated, it was Zee; no doubt worried, but I just couldn’t. The baby, the poor innocent child, condemned to hell. I picked up the still ringing phone, and throw it against the wall, watching as it shattered across my floor. Soon, silence followed. Silence that I hated; it tormented me, I walked to the small shelving that sat above my kitchen table that only held two. On the shelve, sat my sanctuary for now; a stereo, I blared it, some angry rock band was screaming at me but I didn’t mind; it filled my head with noise, and I filled my mouth with vodka.

No matter how much noise entered my head or how much Vodka entered my system, I couldn’t switch off. My father’s face came to mind, I don’t know why him, but memories of his face wrinkled from stress and worry flooded me. He wasn’t around much through my life, yes, he lived with us, but worked non-stop, his job wasn’t demanding in the mines, yet he always left me to take care of my brother Sam. My mother suffered from depression my whole life so she couldn’t take care of us, so I did. One memory haunted me in particular;

“What’s wrong, Abigail?” I had jumped at my Dad’s voice, he wasn’t meant to be home yet, so I didn’t hear him come in. I was standing inside my parents’ bedroom, watching my mother sleep; she often slept the whole day away, and sometimes, I would check on her.

“Why is that man always with mammy?” I had asked as I looked at the man standing beside my mother’s bed as she slept. I couldn’t see his face, he always wore a hoodie. However, I knew he was a bad man. My dad’s huge hands pulled me around so I was face to face with him; he had to kneel down so we were at eye level.

“What man?” I could hear fear in my dad’s voice.

I pointed at the man, and my dad pulled my hand down while shaking his head.

“Stop it, Abigail. Nothing is there.” He was angry now. This wasn’t the first time I had seen things and told him, but it always got me in trouble. I thought maybe my dad might see the man, but he never did.

“Yes, there is.” I insisted, I could see him, I wondered why daddy couldn’t.

“Why are you making up stories again? Do you want to upset daddy?” My dad shook me gently but his hands tightened on my arms.

I could feel tears come to my eyes.

“I’m not making them up, Daddy.” I whispered.

He lifted me up and took me to my room. Fear and anger was visible on his face.

“When you decide to tell the truth, I’ll let you out.” My dad moved to the door and looked back at me. I could see sadness there; this wasn’t the first time I had been locked in my room.

“It’s not real,” he said before he turned off the light and turned the key in the door.

I curled up in the corner of the room, knowing that the man was here with me now. I knew he stood in the other side of the room, his face still hidden by his hood, but he used to whisper my name; it became something sinister, malicious. “Abigail,” But I soon came to understand, that no one would believe me, so I stopped.

“Abigail,” I could hear him again. “Abigail,” It was becoming louder. “Abigail,” Silence. My body became aware; I didn’t open my eyes as I knew something hovered over me. A solid feeling filled my palm, heavy plastic. I didn’t think, just acted. My palm tightened around the plastic and I struck out while opening my eyes, a pair of brown ones looked back at me; alarmed. The knife just rested against his throat. The guy was around my age, his skin was tanned and smooth looking, brown hair was cut tight to his head. I swallowed as panic rose inside me; my breathing became heavy as I tried to take everything in. I was sitting on the ground with my back against the wall while this guy sat on his knees, leaning over me, he just stared at me with those eyes. His lips held ridged in a line; ones I knew if they relaxed, would be oh-so-kissable. The surprise of my thoughts must have been visible by the slight rise of his lip, a blush rushed to my cheeks, giving color to my pale complexion, this made him smile more.

“You find this amusing?” I pushed the knife deeper against his throat, wiping the smile off his face, his eyes darkened. I felt I knew him from somewhere, yet I knew I had never seen him before.

“What are you doing in my home?” I asked starting to rise, forcing him to stand up with me. I kept the knife at his throat. The reality was, this guy broke into my home and was watching me sleep. “Father Peter sent me,” He said with anger in his words.

“For what?”

“I volunteered to check on you.” Regret soaked his words.

“Well, aren’t you my hero! Breaking an entry and watching me sleep, that’s just creepy.” I spat back.

“Your door was open, and I thought you were dead, but I can clearly see I was wrong, you’re far from it.”

“You thought I was dead? What, you never saw someone sleep before?” I asked, causing a crimson color of humiliation to race up his neck.

“Are you always such a bitch?” He asked angrily “And could you, please, take the knife away from my throat?”

I contemplated, “You have to answer one question, if you get it right, I’ll take the knife away, but if you get it wrong, I slice your throat.” His simmering eyes allowed me to ask with a smirk “Name the six types of demons.”

My guess was if Father Peter sent him, then this guy was new and just fresh out of training, and with the clothing he wore, he was new to this. His army style green bottoms coated in pockets, along with a shirt jacket that also had loads of pockets along its arms, indicated he was new. When we were trained, we had to go through a lot of physical work. I still kept my work up in the gym, so members thought with such training, we could kick demons’ butts, but it was for our mental health more than anything. Father Peter maintained that working out released a lot of stress and also kept our minds focused. I looked at this guy again and the feeling that I knew him, never left. But I never got my answer, I was distracted for a moment and he used this opportunity by grabbing my wrist and swiftly pulling the knife away from his throat, he threw it on the floor and it hit with a loud clang. In a blink of an eye, he was kicking out my legs from under me, my face met the floor, and his weight on my back as his breath brushed my neck.

“GET OFF ME.” I roared, he leaned harder on my back, making me fall silent. “Leeches, Whisperers, Feeders, Tormentors, Disturbers, and Takers. Don’t you ever pull a knife on me again.” he finished.

“Fine, now, Get. Off. Me.” I said clearly and loudly, but not roaring this time as I was struggling to breath, the pressure left my back and I jumped up breathing heavy.

“Happy now?” He asked with a smirk. His smirk caused a growl to leave my throat.

“Get out, now.” I pointed at the door.

He raised both his hands, his smirk faltering. “Don’t worry, I’m going. It was nice to meet you, Abigail, and encase you were wondering about my name, it is Blake.” He said then disappeared out the door. I moved slowly into the hall to make sure he was gone. I got a glimpse of his retrieving form as he moved down the stairs. I shut and locked the front door after him, and checked all my windows. My head pounded and I still felt woozy. I moved back into the kitchen and stood there far longer than I thought. When I looked at my plain black clock, that was the only decoration in the kitchen, the hands read three O’clock in the morning. I knocked off the kitchen lights and moved to my bedroom. I had to fight my way to the bed as the floor was covered in clothes, my locker was coated with dust and three used glasses sat on top of it. When I finally reached my bed, I fell into it, consumed with exhaustion, but sleep didn’t come easily, I spent nearly the whole night with my heart racing at every sound.

DANIEL

I entered the Base, needing to get some rest, my arm still hurt and only sleep would heal it.

“Did you have to save Abigail again?” My body tensed at Cathy’s words, I hated how she treated Abigail, I would have snapped her neck in a second, only Abigail would be upset, I really couldn’t understand why she even liked Cathy.

I turned around and gave Cathy a full stare that made her squirm, she was attractive, but her soul was poisoned with bitterness and she wasn’t Abigail.

“No, what are you doing here?” I made my tone sound calm, but my hands itched to reach out and hurt her.

“Great to see you too, Daniel.” she scowled at me before turning on six-inch heels and made her way to the kitchen. She hated rejection and for some unknown reason, seemed to crave mine. Abigail said she fancied me, I think she did it to piss Abigail off. I locked my bedroom door behind me and laid down on my unmade bed before closing my eyes and falling asleep.

I woke up feeling better and looked at the clock; it was 1:30 in the morning. I should have been watching her, not sleeping. I dressed quickly and left. It was quite at the base; anyone that was here was asleep.

I pushed my bike a bit away from the building before starting it and made the 15-minute journey to Abigail’s. I stashed my bike under some bushes, the same place I left it every time, and walked to my usual spot not many were around tonight. I relaxed against the wall and focused. I could hear her door slam and the pounding of her heart. I raced as the main building door opened and a young guy walked out. I grabbed him before he knew it and pinned him against the wall.

“What are you doing here?” I kept one arm across his throat, letting him know I would crush his windpipe if he forced me. But I didn’t expect the bitter smirk on his face.

“At last, we meet Daniel. I needed to see what you turned for.” I didn’t let him go.

“So you’re one of mine? Thank God, you’re okay,” I said, but my words were laced with sarcasm.

“God doesn’t exist, but you already know that. Now, get your hands off me.” I did the opposite; I pushed my arm tight against his throat.

“Keep away from her or I will kill you.” It wasn’t an idle threat and from the look on his face, he knew it.

“Fine.” The word was barely audible, but I let him go and watched as he sucked in air.

“What did you say to her?” I was worried, but hid it from him.

“I just introduced myself.” He smirked again and I took a threatening step towards him, he raised both hands.

“As Blake; the new demon hunter. That’s it, okay? Relax.” I pushed him hard against the wall, his head bounced back and he winched with the force.

“Don’t ever tell me to relax.” his face was red with anger, but I walked away and resumed watching from my spot. He left, his hands balled into fists, throwing glances my way. I needed to get rid of him or he could ruin everything. It was only another hour before I heard her going to her bedroom.

 

   

Aoife Marie Sheridan has loved reading from a very young age, starting off with mills and boon's books, given to by her grandmother her love for romances grew, by the age of 14 she had read hundreds of them.

Aoife had a passion for writing poetry or in her eyes her journal entries. It was something she did throughout her teens and into her twenties. Aoife won first place for two of her poems and had them published at a young age of just nineteen. Realising she needed to get a real job (What writing isn't) she studied accountancy and qualified working in that field for many years, until her passion for reading returned and she found Maria V Snyder. Poison study one of her favourite books has been read and re-read countless times.

Aoife's first book Eden Forest (Part one of the Saskia Trilogy) came to be after a dream of a man and woman on a black horse jumping through a wall of fire and the idea of Saskia was born. Now with her first novel published and taking first place for Eden Forest with Writers Got Talent 2013, Aoife continues to write tales of fantasy and is currently working on her third book for the Saskia Trilogy amongst other new works.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Aoifemariesheri

Website: www.aoifemariesheridan.com

Blog: https://aoifesheri.wordpress.com

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Series Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Otherworld Realms Series by @IsabelleStMike

 

 

 

Practical Uses for Princes with Pointed Ears

Otherworld Realms

Book 1

Isabelle Saint-Michael

Genre: Paranormal Romance/ Fantasy Romance

Publisher: Otherworld Romance, LLC

Date of Publication: November 14, 2014

ISBN: 978-0-9908665-0-3

Paperback 978-0-9908665-1-0

ASIN:

Number of pages: 380

Word Count: 95,000

Cover Artist: CL Smith

Book Description:

Lillian Chambers was just an ordinary high school teacher, until she fell through a Fairy Circle. When she came to on the other side, she was surprised to find herself in the company of an Elven prince she thought only existed in her dreams. Now she’s slaying monsters and rescuing Prince Tallyn, instead of playing the part of the damsel in distress.

Tallyn had been the protector of his kingdom for over one hundred years. He knows that the world is filled with danger around every corner, but these days he’s finding himself babysitting the annoyingly fearless Lady Lillian.

When their worlds collide sparks fly, humorous situations ensue and the only thing for sure is that neither will ever be the same. Practical Uses for Princes with Pointed Ears takes readers on an adventure into a modern fairytale where we explore what it really means to fall for Prince Not-so-Charming.

Available at Amazon

My dreams were more vivid than usual. It was like I was standing there with my favorite imaginary hunk. He and several others were packing up horses. There was a great deal of laughter and teasing among the men. They poked at each other until finally he had to step in and tell them to calm down. Even as he reprimanded them his smile shone brightly. I had never seen him smile with such a youthful presence.

Moments later another man appeared, just as handsome as my dream guy. “Tallyn!” he called, and my heart skipped a beat as I watched the man of my dreams turn to wave.

“Tallyn,” I could feel myself whispering. He turned and looked in my direction, as if he had heard me. His face fell a little when he couldn’t see me standing there.

“What’s wrong?” the taller man asked him.

I watched as Tallyn shrugged. “I was just thinking about how I was going to have to see your face every morning for the next few days and it quashed all the fun out of our camping trip.”

The taller man laughed, only to turn when someone called, "Maerryn!" which I guessed was his name.

I could feel the cool breeze on my skin, causing the hair on my arms to stand up. I watched with interest as the men finished packing up and began to ride away. I followed them through the forest I had seen a hundred times in my dreams. After a few hours they crossed the river in a shallow area then headed up a steep cliff, guiding their horses one at a time along the narrow ledge.

By midday the group reached the top of the cliff and stopped for lunch. The food smelled amazing cooked over the open fire. I felt my stomach rumble. When it did, Tallyn placed a hand on his stomach and looked around with confusion.

He was beautiful to look at, even with uncertainty creasing his brow. His green eyes deepened in color and his breath stilled. It was like he was looking right at me but couldn’t see me. With a shake of his head, he rejoined the conversation around him.

They packed up and left, heading across a path at the top of the cliff that led into another forest. The group seemed more hesitant when they entered the new area. They rode close together for hours, and when darkness finally threatened, they found flat ground and made camp. The horses were tied up, dinner was caught and prepared, and then the wine came out.

Boys will be boys, I thought to myself as they laughed, sang and passed around the bottles.

Behind me I heard the crack of twigs underfoot. Suddenly, I sensed someone else was there. I turned, looking in the direction of the sound, and I saw shadows moving through the woods towards the encampment. Panic filled me and I tried to scream, but I was just a watcher without a voice.

 

 

 

Holiday Spirit for Hire

Otherworld Realms

Book Two

Isabelle Saint-Michael

Genre: Holiday/ Paranormal Romance

Publisher: Otherworld Romance, LLC

Date of Publication: November 14th, 2014

ISBN: 978-0-9908665-2-7

Paperback 978-0-9908665-3-4

Number of pages:164

Word Count:41,000

Cover Artist: CL Smith

Book Description:

When life handed half-werewolf Grace MacGregor a pink slip four weeks before Christmas, she was determined to get back to work as soon as possible. She just didn’t expect it to be the very next day – or at the North Pole. She now has four weeks to make other people’s holiday wishes come true, but will she be able to grant her own while she is at it?

Justin Kringle is the nephew of Santa Claus and his job is to keep operations of the Pole on point. When Grace is dropped bed and all into his work shop, he can’t decide if it’s love or hate at first sight. First impression: she’s a total mess. Can he keep her on track and remember to not mix business and pleasure?

Available at Amazon

I settled into bed with my favorite boyfriend, my laptop. Before long I had updated my resume, applied for a half dozen jobs, checked flights home, and Facebooked with all of my friends to see if anyone had any leads. I was about to shut down when the pop from my email caught my attention.

I closed the other tabs and stared at my inbox. It was from the OAC. The Otherworld Alignment Council was a group of magical beings, things that go bump in the night, and people that made sure that there were universal laws and regulations used across all the realms. They made sure there was a common language, rules about magic, and laws that kept peace between the different races. Why they were emailing me I didn’t know.

To: Grace MacGregor

From: OAC

Subject: The North Pole Needs You

Dear Ms. MacGregor,

It has been brought to the attention of the OAC that you are no longer employed during this busy time of the year. Every Holiday season we rely on the help we get from the Otherworld community to make the season bright. Your talents could be used now through the end of the year helping deliver joyful winter holidays across all the realms.

Please see the attached application. Applicants will be considered for a paid position. Please send a resume, two letters of recommendation and magical aptitude test scores to the email listed below. If chosen we will need you to report immediately for work.

Thank you and Happy Holidays,

Otherworld Alignment Council

I looked at the email again and shrugged. “Why not?” I asked myself. I attached my resume, two recommendation letters and a quick note explaining my father was a Scottish Werewolf Clansman and that I was half human. I figured my lack of magical abilities would keep me out of the fray. My father told me to always answer the OAC right when they contacted you because they made the IRS look patient.

With a giggle to myself I closed the windows on my laptop and shut it down. Snuggling deep into my pillows I closed my eyes, giggling about what use I could possibly be to the Great Holiday Front up North. Strangely enough I fell asleep with thoughts of sugar plums dancing in my head

I awoke the next morning to the sounds of clinking, clicking and power tools. I opened my eyes involuntarily when a particularly loud noise sounded right over my head. It was then I noticed my bedroom was swarming with Gnomes and they seemed too busy to care I was sleeping.

“Excuse me!” I yelled. “Why are you in my bedroom?”

A few of them stopped, exchanged looks with shrugs, and returned to work. I wasn’t answered until a man with a heavy red braid down his back appeared.

“You are in their workshop, and it’s about time you got up.” I climbed out of bed angrily, prepared to demand that they leave. “Nice pajamas,” he said with a grin as he looked me over. “If you follow me we will get you assigned duties, uniforms and the rest of your paperwork filled out.”

I looked around what should have been my room. I was on a toy factory floor. Only it looked like FAO Schwarz met Ikea. Bright colors with industrial-grade shelves mixed with the old world charm of hand-carved wooden trim. All around me Gnomes were hustling to complete toys. I looked in the direction the redheaded man had gone and chased after him, abandoning my bed to the factory.

 

Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?

This is a bit of a mixed question for me. Yes, I’ve always wanted to be writer, but for a while in between I believed I wanted to be a few other things. I thought about medicine or teaching because I want to help people. All I have ever wanted to do was contribute to the world to make it better.

It took me a while, but I now understand that I can do that through storytelling. When people read my books I am sharing a part of myself with others, and hopefully giving them a temporary escape to a place I believe to be magical. It may be a break from school, work, stress, a painful situation or just boredom. No matter what it is, I hope they enjoy the time we share and carry those good feelings out into the world with them.

 

When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?

Writing is something I’ve just always done, but never really considered myself a writer. The title “Writer” or “Author” has always seemed like a title people aspire to, like Sir, Lord or Lady. Even when I was writing and paying bills with my freelance work I still didn’t call myself a writer. It wasn’t until recently when I realized my books were going to be on shelves with other artists I admire that I began to think it may be alright to use the title. Even still, I’m hesitant because it all sort of feels like a dream.

 

How long did it take to get your first book published?

Let me state up front that I know I am not the average. I have been very fortunate with the team I have been able to connect with and the flexibility in the life I lead. I started writing Practical Uses for Princes with Pointed Ears in Mid-August of 2014. I finished the first draft on August 28th, 2014.

My editor and I went through 6 revisions on the book and I had negotiated a spot with Otherworld Romance, LLC as one of their new premier authors by the end of September. From there it was typhoon of things that needed to get done. Cover art needed to be arranged and approved, formatting, making sure we had rights for fonts and things. Otherworld Romance was great at supporting me and working with my ambitious deadline.

So roughly 90 days from concept to shelf.

 

Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?

I do have another job. I teach American Style Hip-Hop dance at a women’s university here in Korea.

 

What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?

I have 2 NEW books that debuted at the same time: Practical Uses for Princes with Pointed Ears and Holiday Spirit for Hire.

Practical Uses: A modern Fairy Tale that follows a woman who falls through a fairy circle and finds and falls for Prince Not-So-Charming.

Holiday Spirit: A seasonal tale about the magic of the North Pole and what happens when you mix business and pleasure.

 

Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?

I publish under a company called Otherworld Romance, LLC. They are small London based publisher which is trying to find a new way to approach publishing in the modern sense. They bring together authors, artists, formatters and editors. The idea is to provide an author the flexibility and control that self-pubbing offers, but also give the writer the backing they need to position themselves the best they can in a competitive marketplace.

It’s nice to know you are part of a team of people who are there to support you and see you succeed!

 

How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?

If I have the time to dedicate without distraction, it takes me about 10 days from initial concept to first draft of a manuscript. A novella takes 5-6 days. Now mind you, when I sit down and write, I produce 10,000 to 15,000 words a day on average. With editing, re-writes and so forth, probably about a month.

What can we expect from you in the future?  ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?

I have some really exciting projects in the works for 2015. Books 3, 4 and 5 in the Otherworld Realms series are all slated to release next year. I have a new series that will be set in Asia which follows the adventures of a journalist/spin doctor who was hired to cover up the existence of Magic Girls, Giant Robots, Ninja Teens, and so much more. I am also partnering with an amazing team of people to write a screen play for a web series which will begin filming in late summer/early fall of 2015.

 

What genre would you place your books into?

My books fall under the categories of Paranormal- or Fantasy-based Romances.

 

What made you decide to write that genre of book?

I own and write a blog called Elven Life. When I started it, it was a project I was just goofing around with. I wanted to write a slice-of-life blog from the perspective of a Changeling who just discovered what she was. It didn’t take long for readers to start emailing me with questions about the characters, backstories, and usual fandom type of things.

It wasn’t long before I realized that I had started building a world that I loved to write about. Next thing I knew, I started playing with the idea of writing books that overlapped with the blog. Each book is a standalone story, but what happens on the blog and when it happens in the book are directly connected.

Now readers have a way to follow what is going on in the realms between stories or gather more background info on some of their favorite characters. They can go to the blog and write me directly or leave messages for the characters.

 

Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?

My characters are all so near and dear to me. It’s hard for me to pick favorites, but I have a special place in my heart for Joy (Justin’s mom in Holiday Spirit for Hire). Joy is based off a combination of my own mother and grandmother. She is even named after my grandma. Both Justin and Grace have a lot of me in their personalities. I wouldn’t be who I am without my Mom and Grandma, and I wasn’t sure they would be who they are without that sort of elder in their lives either.

 

 

How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?

I’ve been writing pretty much since I could hold a pencil and string words together to deliver an idea. There has always been something therapeutic about writing things down. It doesn’t matter if it is a story, a journal entry, or a shopping list.

I’m not sure what inspired me but I absolutely know who encouraged me. My mom has been the backbone that has kept me strong and cheered me on all my life. She has always encouraged me to go after my dreams with gusto.

 

Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?

My “office” where I write is actually a twin size bed and lap desk that I have in my living room. I only listen to music if I am having trouble getting into the headspace I need for a scene or character. Otherwise I am happiest writing with white noise.

 

Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?

I do read them all. Good and bad. Sometimes there is good information from your readers. Sometimes a great review can make your day, and sometimes a bad review will get you worked up but will inspire you to keep writing if for no other reason than so that that reader may have to see your name on another title.

 

Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?

I outline the story first and then the title normally comes to light as I write the actual story.

 

How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?

Ummmm, I may have written the beginnings of my own language for this series. I like to use a mixture of fantastical names and common ones we all know. I do the same thing with settings. I think about the way I want the setting to feel when you are there and try to develop a name that fits that feeling.

 

Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?

So I choose a settings first. Many of them are real places or based on real places. Once the place is outlined I will choose a name if it doesn’t already have one. Characters happen both ways. Sometimes I just really like a name and develop a character to go with it. Sometimes I develop a character and have to write about them a little bit before I decide on a name for them.

 

Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?

Some traits I choose before I write. I may decide I need someone funny or serious to round out my group. From there I consider what a character with those traits would be like and they take on a life of their own as I write.

 

Are there any hidden messages or morals contained in your books? (Morals as in like Aesops Fables type of "The moral of this story is..")

My Otherworld Realms books were designed to provide a new round of Fairy Tales for grown-ups. I want people coming away believing that flaws do not make us flawed people. That love can come when you least expect it and aren’t really looking. That women can save themselves and the men they love. They can be the white knight. That love can exist between anyone and race, gender, or other differences shouldn’t be able to sway the heart.

 

Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?

I love physical copies of books. Mostly paperbacks, because I can fit them more easily into my purse to take with me. There is something about the way they feel in your hands and that book smell. Even the way they look lined up on a shelf is a little intoxicating at times.

All that being said, I currently live in Asia with little to no storage space. Getting books in English is a challenge, so eBooks have been a life saver. I can house a library of 1000’s of books in the space of my kindle. (Which also fits nicely in my purse.) While I live here I will most likely have to embrace eBooks as much as possible.

 

What is your favorite book and Why?  Have you read it more than once?

Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte

I have loved this book since junior high. I feel like every great soap opera and many great paranormal and historical stories have roots in this piece of literature - the drama, the pain, the characters you both love and hate. It’s all there.

To date I have read this book probably 6 or 8 times. Maybe more.

Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?

I think that starting with a great book when you make a movie makes it easier to create a great movie. I think directors and producers who try to maintain a true vision of the original work fare better in the long run than those who do their own thing. Probably one of the best examples of it done right recently is Outlander based on Diana Gabaldon’s series of the same name.

Yes, there are points where the show has veered away from source material but I haven’t found that any of it distracts from the story it is telling.

 

Your favorite food is?

Does coffee count? I love coffee and I don’t think my books or blog would exist without it. As for real food, I go back and forth between fish n’ chips or Mexican. It sort of depends on my mood.

 

Your favorite singer/group is?

I have rather eclectic tastes in music, but if I had to choose only one group to listen to the rest of my life it would be Bon Jovi.

 

Your favorite color is?

No contest, Blue! The brighter the blue the better.

 

Your favorite Author is?

This is the hardest question for me because I have so many favorites. Robert Lynn Asprin, Anne Rice and Katie MacAlister are just a few.  I know I’m supposed to pick one favorite, but they each write in different genres and I don’t have a favorite genre.

Anne’s worlds are so vivid and her characters are so iconic to me and the era I grew up in that her writing played a major part in my personal development modern American literature.

Robert and Katie have both written books that have made me snort drinks through my nose and call my friends at weird hours to read then passages from the books. They have inspired my own writing by reminding me there is an element of humor in even the worst of situations. It’s a lesson that serves me daily both out in the real world and behind my keyboard.

 

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Isabelle Saint-Michael is a cupcake enthusiast, shoe addict, and globetrotter. She is known for her sense of adventure and geeky hobbies. She is frequently seen haunting coffee shops and pubs into the wee hours of the morning. No matter where she goes, shenanigans and mirth are never far behind.

The blog that started it all- www.Elvenlife.com

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/IsabelleStMichael

Twitter @IsabelleStMike or https://twitter.com/IsabelleStMike