Karen Swart's Blog, page 46

Cover Reveal: On the Growl Boxset

BOOK TITLE: On the Growl AUTHOR NAMES: Celia Kyle, Lynn Red, Jessica Sims, Flora Dare and Marina Maddix PUBLICATION DATE: October 13, 2014  ISBN: 9781941122068 GENRE(s): BBW , Boxed Sets , Coming Soon , Heterosexual , Menage & More , Paranormal From a pack of your favorite NYT and USAT best-selling paranormal romance authors comes a collection of ALL NEW novellas that will make you howl, scratch and bite... and leave you roaring for more! Love comes in all shapes and sizes. No surprise there, right? Passionate, wild, hungry, dripping, salty, sweaty, steamy; falling in love is the best thing in the world. It doesn’t matter if you’re a bunny with curves, a brand new werewolf without much clue what’s happening, a feisty wolverine shifter, a fun-loving house cat or a were-tigress with a short temper for obnoxious men, there’s a big, protective, incredible alpha for everyone... or in some cases, two of them! Except... sometimes, it gets complicated. Mysterious and magical resorts, dangerous rogue wolves, dentists that get just a little too excited and start growing hair in funny places, a couple of bears who might be terrorists, and a tiger with a bad attitude? Gulp. Things could get REAL complicated. In places where the only rules are Pack rules; in towns where shifters and witch doctors rub shoulders; on exotic vacations where only eagles dare, and on planes where a wolverine shifter is sandwiched between two of the sexiest bears she’s ever imagined, you’ll never have more fun, or get more steamy, seductive, incredible paranormal romance in ONE PLACE at ONE LOW PRICE. From our pack to yours, enjoy these incredible novellas, and keep howling for the moon! * Waking Up Were by Celia Kyle * What’s a gal to do when a dog bite isn’t a dog bite and her boss makes her want to howl at the moon? Keep him. * Bear Your Teeth by Lynn Red * A slightly clutzy rabbit-shifter and a big, bad bear of a dentist will take you along on a steamy, hilarious ride you’ll never forget! * Tiger by the Tail by Jessica Sims * Were-tiger Adrian Merino is determined to see the newest shifter on the block, Mandy, become his mate. But it’s got to be her idea first… * Bears Repeating by Flora Dare * It takes double the werebears to handle one cranky wolverine in this menage romance. * To Screech His Own by Marina Maddix * It may be against the rules, but when a hot eagle shifter lands at an exclusive resort, one employee really wants to ruffle his feathers. What’s a curvy kitty to do? CONNECT WITH THE AUTHORS: Celia Kyle Website: http://celiakyle.com Facebook: http://facebook.com/authorceliakyle Twitter: http://twitter.com/celiakyle Goodreads: http://goodreads.com/celiakyle Newsletter: http://celiakyle.com/getnews/ Lynn Red Website: http://www.lynnred.com Facebook: http://facebook.com/lynn.red.romance Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7351754.Lynn_Red Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/G1q2X Jessica Sims Website: http://www.jessica-sims.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJessicaClare Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/_JessicaClare Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4720629.Jessica_Sims Newsletter: http://jessica-sims.com/newsletter/ Flora Dare Website: http://www.floradare.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FloraDareWrites Twitter: https://twitter.com/FloraDare Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/FloraDare Newsletter: http://www.floradare.com/news/ Marina Maddix Website: http://www.marinamaddix.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorMarinaMaddix Twitter: https://twitter.com/marinamaddix Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/MarinaMaddix Newsletter: http://list.marinamaddix.com a Rafflecopter giveaway

Cover Reveal: Mistaken Identity by @TC_Matson

Event Organized by ❤MaE Book Tours & Promo Stars Services❤

❤Cover Design by: Mayhem Cover Creations ❤

Synopsis

Life sometimes gives you a fork in the road and doesn’t give you a hint of which direction to take. There’s no signs, no arrows, no neon lights to help. Luckily, Samantha Beckman chose the right path years ago and escaped from the horrors of her childhood. Along with her best friend, Jess, she lives a wonderful life—happy and carefree just as any twenty six year old should. Opportunity arises when Samantha lands the job of a lifetime as the COO’s executive assistant for North Carolina’s leading corporation, Weston Company. Yet, not everything is as it seems. Samantha soon learns Mr. Eye Candy from the elevator isn’t who he says he is, the sexy construction worker isn’t what she thought he was, and don’t forget about her new unwanted and clever stalker. Maybe her life isn’t as simple as she hoped it would be. Caught in the sights of two men and a stalker, Samantha is forced to decide between flight and fight, fear over strength. Will she be able to take the right path again, or has her luck finally run out?

Genre Contemporary Romance Thriller

Expected Publication Date November 4th 2014

Excerpt #1

I take a step to the side when the elevator chimes, stopping on the fifth floor. The doors open to the most gorgeous man I’ve ever laid eyes on. He’s a tall, dark brown haired angel wearing a perfectly tailored charcoal grey suit with a crisp white shirt and a grey striped tie with his hands in his pockets. His clean shaven, chiseled jawline shifts slightly when his lips curl into a sexy knowing smile, creating dimples that ignite an ache between my legs. My breath catches at the most mesmerizing set of azure blue eyes piercing into me. This man knows his eyes are capable of giving women multiple orgasms with just one look, and he’s not afraid to use them. He steps in giving me a slight nod. “New here?” he asks, his voice silky. I blink, realizing I’ve just been busted staring…at his mouth, his eyes, his drop dead gorgeous face. He probably thinks I’m a creep. Before I can answer, the smell of his woodsy mandarin cologne mixed with soap engulfs my body provoking succulent thoughts. It’s enticing and sexy, and I want it all over me and my sheets. “Yes, sir,” I say on unsteady legs. “Welcome to the company. I’m sure I’ll see you around.” He smirks as he exits the elevator, knowing damn good and well what he’s doing. The heat that spread throughout my body, I now feel on my cheeks. I say nothing. I can’t. My poor brain can’t form words. My lungs hurt from the lack of oxygen, and my mouth is slack jawed. Dammit.

Excerpt #2

As I’m thumbing through the papers in my hands, the elevator doors slide open. Before I can even look up, I run right into a solid wall of muscle making me spill my coffee. “Oh! I’m so sorry.” I wipe away the droplets of coffee on the blue jacket. “I didn’t mean to spill my coffee on…” When my eyes find their way up to the pleasant face of the suit’s owner, I’m mortified. Out of all the employees that work here, I’ve run into Mr. Eye Candy from the elevator yesterday. “You?” I exhale. Excitement flickers in his blue eyes. Dimples appear from a victorious smile. My insides clench. “I knew I needed coffee this morning,” he chuckles, not easing my embarrassment one bit. “I really am sorry.” He steps into the elevator, turning around with a megawatt, sexy as hell smile and a wet coffee stain, “No worries.” I shake my head when the doors close eliminating the incredible view of him. “Seriously? That just happened.” I tell myself under my breath. Over slept, then practically scalded Mr. Eye Candy into a wet suit contest…this day cannot possibly get any worse.

About the Author

New independent author, TC Matson, loves to let her characters voices be heard. With a head full of stories, she puts her keyboard through a beating daily. Regularly she visits the solidity of her writing cave, whether it be on the couch, at her desk, or wherever the three year old can’t reach the laptop. Currently she is publishing her debut novel, Mistaken Identity that’s set to storm the web in the fall of 2014. She is an avid reader and is known to devour books within hours. As a romance junkie, Matson sets her sights to try to find stories that are relatable and real. She’s not a fan of vampires, fairies, or any other out of this world fiction stories. And understanding that love isn’t always instant and full of flowers…her writing mirrors it. Matson resides in the peaceful piedmont area of North Carolina with her husband and three boys where she stays hopped up on caffeine and chasing children. She has a relatively normal life managing her home, or as she calls it, her looney bin. Chaos is indefinite and a sense of humor is absolutely a must.

Connect with TC Matson!

Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter

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Blog Tour & Giveaway: Part 16 of Taming The Fae

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Revealing Part Sixteen of Taming The Fae An Exsilium Short Story


Part Sixteen

Nanini

I woke up feeling like crap. Even though I ate last night, it felt like I had no energy. With difficulty, I got dressed, brushed my teeth, and made my way to the kitchen. I stopped at the door and watched Max place a plate on the table.

“I have made you something to eat.” He indicated the plate and turned around to the fridge.

It was a trap. I looked around waiting for the boogey man or something to jump up. Max closed the fridge door and had a bunch of stuff in his arms. When he noticed that I was still standing there, he stopped his progress and looked at me.

“Eat, Nanini. I still have to make breakfast for the others,” he said with a smile.

Okay, apparently he wasn’t mad at me anymore. I spent most of the night lying in bed remembering his face when Kas told him about our little adventure without them. And I felt like crap all through it. I sat down at the table and looked at the sandwich. It looked freaking amazing. I grabbed it and almost stuck half of it in my mouth. Chewing, I closed my eyes and enjoyed every molecule bursting inside my mouth.

“Do you know how beautiful you are when you do that?” Max’s declaration had my eyes flashing open.

He was leaning against the counter looking at me. I felt the blush that crept up from my neck towards my face. Oh no.

“Even more when you blush like that,” he went on.

I was the color of blood now. “Don’t do that.”

“What? Tell you how beautiful you are?” Max wasn’t going to back off.

“Yes, I don’t like it.” I was suddenly on ‘flee and save yourself’ mode. I looked at the door and decided to get the hell out of there.

“Ompf!” I smashed right into Max. He grabbed hold of me and didn’t let go. I struggled and even tried to bite him but he was just too powerful. His hand grabbed my chin and he forced me to look at him.

“You are beautiful,” he said again. His eyes captured mine and I couldn’t breathe.

“No… I a…m not.” I staggered with his hypnotic hold on me.

He smiled a devilish smile. “You are very beautiful. I can’t seem to keep my eyes of you,” he whispered, his lips inches from mine. I pulled my head back, dreading his intentions.

“Don’t, “ I all but croaked at him.

His eyes drifted down to my lips, and he actually licked his own lips. Oh no, no, no. I squirmed in his hold but just couldn’t get away.

His lips met mine and I froze. His lips were… soft. I wasn’t expecting that. I wasn’t expecting all of this. He lifted his lips from mine and looked at me, shocked. “Was this-? Have you never been kissed before?”

“I…I” Couldn’t get a freaking word out. My body flashed from red to pink to white. I was stunned, scared and just plain embarrassed. Of course I have never kissed anyone! I was too young at first, and then I was just…not what they were looking for. Tears formed in my eyes and his filled with concern. “Can you let me go now?” I croaked out, trying to push the tears back before they fell.

He didn’t let go. Instead he leaned in again and kissed me. At first it was as soft as a feather, and then he placed more pressure on my lips. I felt something warm again my lips and gasped. My mouth was suddenly engulfed in sweet, delicious heat. His tongue slightly touched mine. As the tears rolled down my face, my body yielded to what he was doing, and became his to control. My mouth moved with his and I dared to let my own tongue touch his. I must have done something wrong because he pressed me against the wall and released my lips to look at me. His eyes was piercing into me; he looked at me, and then slowly down to my lips. I pressed them closed and dreaded what he would do or say next.

“Utterly beautiful,” he whispered and kissed me again.

Aflame, I grabbed him around the neck and just freaking let go. It was so amazing, his scent, his taste. Ambrosia. I struggled to take breaths as we continued.

Someone cleared their throat and we instantly broke apart and away from each other.

“I am just getting some juice for Lada. Don’t mind me.” Lotan smiled as he grabbed a glass and a box of juice from the fridge. He walked out and wiggled his eyebrow at us.

I was utterly mortified. I looked at Max and then at those lips that just did something amazing with mine. They were puffy and red. My hand went to my own lips, and I could feel mine were in the same state.

He, of course, looked like he just won the lottery. “Come on, eat up and then we can make some breakfast for the others.” He smiled and went over to the stove.

Slowly, and half in a stupor, I went back to my plate. I watched him chop an onion. I wasn’t so hungry anymore, well, at least not for food. My hands were still touching my sensitive lips. Un-freaking-believable. I have always dreamed of this day. For how long did I watch the others and wondered when I would finally have my first kiss too. And now? I was just blown away. I never could get why Lada and all the others girls would melt down and just be a pile of jelly. Now I know why. It was amazing!

“Are you alright?” Max brought me back to reality.

“Yes,” was my only reply.

He frowned at me. “Are you mad at me?”

“No.” Why couldn’t I seem to form more than one word?

He walked over to me and took the chair opposite me. “Finish up and let’s get to work. We have a big day in front of us.”

I looked down at the sandwich and nodded. I heard him get up and go back to the counter. What if this might actually work out? What if we really become mated?

I didn’t hear him approach; I was too deep in thought. He pulled me up and lifted me so our faces met again. His lips descended on mine again, and we started kissing all over again. I enjoyed it. I actually craved it. Finally breaking apart, he let his head rest against mine. “It’s like a drug. I can’t seem to stop.” He breathed heavily.

Neither could I. It was a drug, a very great one.

“Thank you.” I just had to say it.

He lifted his head and looked at me. “No, Nanini, thank you. Never before has a kiss felt like this. If you give me the chance, I promise to make it even better each time,” he all but begged.

“Okay, but no funny stuff.” I tried to make a serious face like Chax.

He laughed and kissed me again, and he placed me back on the floor. “Come on, I just heard the first door open. They are going to storm this kitchen at any moment.” He pulled me over to the counter and placed some cheese in my hand.

Just then Ben came walking into the kitchen. “I hope that is food. I am starving.” He sat down at my plate and eyed my half eaten sandwich. I looked back at Max, who smiled at me.

I don’t know where Max and I would be in a week or two. We might die today trying to protect this world. We might die tomorrow. But for the first time in my life, I had something that I wanted. Not duty, not obligation. Just something for me. Something that I was going to give a chance, no matter what tomorrow might bring. Something I could always say was mine, and mine alone. I had a mate, and I was going to fight to have him.





Book Info -
Title: Kasadya Hellhound Awakened
Series: Kasadya #1
Author: Karen Swart
Genre: Urban Fantasy/Paranormal
Audience: YA/NA - 14 years and up
Formats: Paperback and E-book
Publisher: Karen Swart
Cover by: Melody Simmons
Edited by: MAI-Editing-Services , There for you Editing Services & Blue Butterfly Editing
ISBN: 978-1311699121
Date Published: 21 August 2012
Pages: 342 pages
 
 
In a constant battle between good and evil, evil is dominating the battlefield and leading mankind to its destruction. With our Creator's intervention, a creature destined to conquer and destroy is created. He gives mankind hellhounds to fight back and reclaim freedom. Join seventeen year old Kasadya Levourne as she fights against evil to protect us. With each step, she faces destruction, and yet she has the talent to give it back tenfold. Stubborn and hard-headed she makes her mark in the Fallen world and starts a battle none can escape. Not even her trainer, the very attractive Chax de Luca, was prepared for her presence. Will evil prevail? Or will Kas and her Fallen friends succeed in protecting us against it? Hold on to your seats, this is going to be one hell of a ride. Special Note: The Kasadya Series is read back to back, book 1- 3 ends with a cliffhanger. Amazon / Goodreads / Smashwords/ Barnes & Noble      Prologue There was a time when heaven was filled with peace and serenity. God, Jesus Christ, and all the Angels lived in harmony; no evil and no sin existed. Until one fateful day...
With all gathered to hear their Sire speak, God rose and addressed his Angels. Before all, he proclaimed His Son, Jesus Christ, was equal to Him. That Christ’s words should be obeyed as if they were His own. Christ would command the heavens, with the same authority as Him. All the Angels bowed down before Christ and accepted their Sire’s proclamation, all except for one…
An Archangel was furious with this proclamation. He was his Sire’s right hand, the deliverer of justice, the commander of many legions. He had served his Sire for centuries, and never failed him. It should be to him that God bestow power, not a Son whom had never even seen battle.
With his heart filled with hatred and jealousy, he gathered all the angels in secret. He told them that their days of sweet liberty were at an end. That God has now placed Christ as their ruler and that they should now obey his wishes. Many angels were angered at such a false statement, but many also agreed with the Archangel. He had led them for many years; why should they now question his leadership?
The faithful Angels fled to God and told Him what was happening, and together they prepared for war. With the sun rising on a new day, God and his Angels stood ready for battle against the Archangel and his followers. The battle only lasted a day, the Archangel and his followers defeated before the sun set for the night.
Seeing the angels on their knees before Him, He gave them one final chance… “Repent and declare your loyalty, and I will forgive you, my children.” He told his beautiful angels, tears falling with each word. This was His family. This was His love. How could they betray Him? Some of the Angels cried their penance, begging Him to forgive them for their deceit. They claimed that the Archangel deceived them, and they followed him into battle, as they have done for centuries.
God took pity on them, but still believed that their deceit must not go unpunished. He had spoken many times about the importance of punishment, that lessons learned must be earned... “I herewith grant you mercy, but as punishment you will be sentenced to an earthly realm. I will take your beauty as payment for my children lost today. In the place of your beauty, I will give you purpose. In mercy, and because I love you still, I give you life in this realm. Let this be known, that I was merciful this day,” God finished.
He placed them in an earthly realm, and called it Exsilium. In this realm they would carry their deceit, and earn their place with him. He took their beauty and replaced them with elements of his earth. Half would be of animal and element, and would resemble punishment. The other, in a humanoid form, and would resemble mercy. He called them his Fallen.
The Archangel, and those whom did not repent, were not that lucky. God looked into the eyes of His once faithful angels and only saw destruction, hatred, jealousy, and heartache. He knew that His beloved ones had died this day, and that others needed to be protected. But how could you destroy one you loved? He placed the Archangel, and his followers, in another earthly realm, but where Exsilium was above the earth, this one was in the center. With one wave of His hand, their beautiful forms were replaced with forms as ugly as their hatred and deceit. Using His word and blood, He sealed this realm from any other.
As He looked into the many eyes of hatred, He spoke his final word... “This realm will be called Hell, and you will be called demons. You, my once faithful Archangel, you will be called the Devil. Your angel name will be erased from the past, present, and future. You will be forgotten,” He proclaimed and left them to their demise.
Many years have passed since that day. God created mankind and cherished his new children. The male and female were his new hope; in them he would find peace again. But the Devil had grown strong through the years, and somehow managed to enter God’s garden. Here, he found the female God created, using her to strike back. He whispered words of deceit in her ears, and watched as God’s new children stepped into sin. With her first bite, a crack appeared in the seal around Hell, and demons escaped to earth.
From that day onward, the Devil and his demons created chaos amongst God’s new children, leading one after the other into sin. God looked upon this and decided to fight for his loved ones. He went to Exsilium and spoke to the Fallen... “You, my children, have proven your loyalty in the years that have passed, and so I came to offer you another chance at Heaven. If you slay the Devil and his demons to protect mankind, I will give you a place in my Heaven once again. With your last breath on this earth, you will join me and your brethren in Heaven,” He finished. The Fallen agreed and God gave them the power to move in and out of Exsilium to battle the demons. The war between Good and Evil began.
But as mankind spread over the earth, sin became their followers. And with each sin, the demons grew stronger and created more demons to torture mankind. The Fallen were now fighting against millions; they needed assistance to ensure victory. God had watched the battle from Heaven and saw that they were failing because of their numbers. He also saw that the demons grew stronger than the Fallen. He intervened and created a new creature. This creature would have features encompassing the best of both worlds. One half was as strong and loyal as the Fallen, while the other was as hard and enduring as a demon. This was His ultimate weapon. This would be His greatest creation. To ensure that these creatures could not be swayed, He placed Heaven’s soul into them. He called them His hellhounds.
The hellhounds delivered justice swiftly, as strong and just as the Fallen. Yet hard and durable like the demons, they conquered the earthly realm and the demons retreated. Not one hellhound could be swayed. All stayed true to their calling. God, knowing that the Devil and many more demons had retreated, gave His hellhounds life, and offered them a place among the Fallen.
Until this day they still watch over mankind, protecting them from evil. Will we be worth it?
 
 
 
Book Info -
Title: Kasadya Hellhound Twisted
Series: Kasadya #2
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Audience: YA/NA - 14 years and up
Formats: E-book
Publisher: Karen Swart
Edited by: There for you Editing Services & Blue Butterfly Editing
Cover by: Melody Simmons
ISBN: 978-1301357192
Pages: 251 Pages
Date Published: 15 February 2013

Kasadya: Hellhound Twisted (Book #2 of the Kasadya Series)
She fought against all odds and became the warrior she was meant to be … or so she thought. In a world where the rules have changed, can she embrace her destiny and become the hellhound she was meant to be?
Kasadya is back in Exsilium and finds her world a little different. Her half-breed fallen friends join her, and they are ordered to complete their apprentice training in order to obtain the right to be guardians. She must learn that her own fate cannot be denied and that others are set to follow. But most of all, she must learn that to trust is the greatest battle of all.
The tables are turned and Kasadya is put to the test. Will she be able to prevent her own death, or that of a friend? Or will her actions call forth the destruction of Earth and Exsilium?
For a Phoenix to rise, it must first die. —Chax De Luca
Amazon / Goodreads / Smashwords / Barnes and Noble       Book Info -
Title: Kasadya Hellhound Born
Series: Kasadya #3
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Audience: YA/NA - 14 years and up
Formats: E-book
Publisher: Karen Swart
Cover by: Melody Simmons
Edited by: MAI-Editing-Services & Blue Butterfly Editing
ISBN: 9781301863594
Pages: 235 pages
Date Published: 15 August 2013

Kasadya: Hellhound Born (Book #3 of the Kasadya Series)
In a world filled with evil, the Fallen prepare for the ultimate battle against the demon world!
Kasadya is ordered to unleash her crazed born transformation to complete her divinity. But there is a chance that her born will be uncontrollable, and she will be destroyed. There is just one person that can save her; her charm, her destined mate. Left without a choice, she must surrender, and place her life in his hands.
In a race against time, the Fallen must stand together and fight the evil threatening to invade earth. If her divinity was in reach, victory would be theirs. That is until she starts having visions of the final battle, and her true destiny is revealed. She just found her love and place in the Fallen world; will she be able, and willing, to sacrifice it all?
Amazon / Smashwords / Goodreads / Barnes and Noble “Kasadya, don't do this to me,” Chax spoke, using Corra.
I stopped completely and looked at him. Reaching for my necklace, I held it.
“I am so sorry, Chax. This is the only way; we can’t win any other way. I know; I have seen the end too many times,” I replied.
His face fell even more and he looked around, searching for a way out.
“I want to thank you... for being there for me. For searching for me when I went missing. For enduring all of my crap. I am sorry I messed up so many times. But not this time; this I promise. But most of all, thank you for loving me.” Even my mental voice broke down on the last part.
Chax started to scream and pound at the invisible wall, while others joined him. I looked at Nanini, shocked that she couldn’t get out.
“Take care of Max for me,” I sent to her.
Tears formed and ran down her cheeks, but she nodded.
“Kas, let us help you!” Lotan yelled. My friends, my family were still trying to save me. Tears ran down my own face now.
“I love all of you. Thank you for always being there for me.” Finally my mental voice began to a sob.
I turned away, afraid that the sight of them would stop me.
“Kasadya! Don’t do this to me. I beg you!” Chax yelled at me.
Demons were closing in around me, but my heart was so broken I just let the tears and heartache spill out of me.
“I am so sorry, Chax. Forgive me.” With that, I stormed forward.
I used my g-force punches to clear the masses out of my way. When that stopped working, I started shifting. Demons grabbed at me and some got in a slice or two. But I wasn't stopping.
I saw Ballen trying to flee from me. He thought I was heading for him. Good. I needed him on the other side when I blew it up. Using my wings for momentum, I sent a massive g-force punch into the horde that remained between me and my target. They flew backwards, clearing the way for me to advance. I swiped at a few too close and took their heads. Blood sprayed all over me. Searching for the hole to make sure I was heading in the right direction, I saw the shoulders and arms of something freaking big, already beginning to breach.
I need to move faster!
I lifted up with my wings. They were tired, but I had no other option. Now I had the flying demons to contend with. We fought and sliced and I sent a few down to earth without a head. At last, I was advancing on the hole. Pain shot through my left wing and I tumbled to the ground, hitting hard. At the last moment I made sure that the front of my body hit the ground and not the back. Demons jumped me all at once. Ballen was yelling at them to stop me. I used everything I had left and flung out with my wings and arms. They went flying and just in front of me was the hole with the devil stuck in it. Ballen was standing at the entrance watching me, his face a mask of shock.
With a deep breath, I reached for the pouch and took hold of the balls. Now armed and ready, I just had a few feet to go. I stormed through the demons, not caring if they sliced me open. I wasn't stopping for a fight anymore. I held the balls to my chest, sealing them from any other impact. Then, finally, I was at the entrance of the hole. With the last of my strength, I leaped into the air and went flying straight for it.
There were many things that go through your mind that moment before you die. I remembered my first step into Exsilium. Meeting Lada and Nanini. Meeting Chax and hating my first day. I remembered our fun at the beach, the Hellhouse and the grub spot. Seeing Lada and Lotan kissing for the first time. Meeting Max and Ryan, and then all of the rest. My heart no longer troubled by Kali or Seth or all the others who had betrayed me. I remembered finding Chax and the Fallen again. Seeing my parents again. So many memories bombarded me at that last moment. I remembered my day and night with Chax, and how it felt to be loved.
“I love you,” I sent a final message to him.
He was still screaming my name, begging for me to stop.
I remembered why I was doing this. For them I gave my heart, my life. Ballen's shocked face was in front of me, right in my path. Just when I reached him, I dropped the balls and slammed into him.
 
 
 
Book Info -
Title: Kasadya Hellhound Defined
Series: Kasadya, #4
Author: Karen Swart
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Audience: YA/NA - 14 years and up
Formats: E-book
Publisher: Karen Swart
Cover by: Melody Simmons
Edited by: Blue Butterfly Editing
ASIN: B00J698M1A
ISBN: 978-1311495075
Pages: 135 pages
Date Published: 21 March. 2014
Kasadya: Hellhound Defined (Book #4 of the Kasadya Series) For centuries his only reason for existence was to destroy evil. But when he finally found his mate, that all changed for the deadly Chax De Luca. When the hellhound Kasadya captured his heart, he surrended it to her, thinking he’d finally found what he’d been looking for. Little did he know that his mate would sacrifice herself to save them all. His fury is legend. His wrath, merciless. His love for his mate, undeniable. He’s going to hell to retrieve his heart, and if that means that he must destroy hell itself, then so be it. Kasadya awakes to a world in peril, her mate forever changed, and a war filled with evil creatures intending to enter Earth’s realm and destroy all that she holds dear. Can she complete her divinity in time to save her loved ones and mankind? Will she have to choose? Or will all be lost in the final battle? The final battle is here, and with it, secrets are revealed and worlds are changed forever. Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Smashwords   Amazon           World So Cold - Three Days Grace http://youtu.be/faUPv_oShAc Stronger (What doesn’t kill you) - Kelly Clarkson http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xn676-fLq7I Sparks Fly - Taylor Swift http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKar-tF__ac The Animal I have become - Three Days Grace http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqds0B_meys The One That Got Away - Katy Perry http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ahha3Cqe_fk Torn - Natalie Imbrugia http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VV1XWJN3nJo I Won't Give Up - Jason Mraz http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1-4u9W-bns Hot and Cold - Katy Perry http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kTHNpusq654&feature=kp Supermassive Black Hole - Muse http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LgcDpTH47g Firework - Katy Perry http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGJuMBdaqIw I will not bow - Breaking Benjamin http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qrRzNidzIc Realize - Colbie Caillat http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlZxZ2n2zpw   3 x E-Copies of The Kasadya Hellhound Series 1 x $10 Amazon GC a Rafflecopter giveaway  
 
I am a complete book addict, and really proud of it. My entire world is made of books. From reading to writing to blogging to helping other authors. A day without my world of books would be impossible. I am a mother of three, two boys and a little princess. Happily married for 8 years with my high school sweetheart. I live in South Africa, just on the rims of the Kalahari Desert in a small town with one shop and friendly faces.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Blog / Amazon

  Tour Schedule - Month Blog Tour for The Kasadya Hellhound Series by Karen Swart from Sep 1 to 30, 2014 Sep 1 Fictional Rendezvous Book Blog - Promo http://fictionalrendezvousbookblog.blogspot.com/ TTC Books And More - Promo & Reveal Part 1 of Taming The Fae  http://www.ttcbooksandmore.com 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy, Too! - Promo http://3partnersinshopping.blogspot.com Sep 2 Blue Books and Butterflies - Promo, Top Ten & Reveal Part 2 of Taming The Fae  http://bluebooksandbutterflies.blogspot.com/ Sep 3 A Crazy Vermonter's Book Reviews - Review - Book 4 http://heather-andrews.blogspot.com/ The Idle Musings of a Writer's Mind- Promo & Reveal Part 3 of Taming The Fae http://theidlemusingsofawritersmind.blogspot.com Sep 4 The Avid Reader - Promo & Reveal Part 4 of Taming The Fae http://the-avidreader.blogspot.com Sep 5 Agapa Reads - Review, Book Soundtrack & Reveal Part 5 of Taming The Fae  http://www.agapareads.com Sep 8 A One-click Addict's Book Blog - Promo & Review http://aone-clickaddictsbookblog.blogspot.com/ Coffee Books & Art - Promo, Dream Cast & Reveal Part 6 of Taming The Fae  http://sarityahalomi.blogspot.com/ A Little Bit of R&R - Promo http://alittlebitofrnr.com/ Sep 9 Book Hostage - Promo http://bookhostage.wordpress.com/ A Cauldron of Books - Promo & Reveal Part 7 of Taming The Fae http://acauldronofbooks.info Sep 10 Cajun Book Lover - Promo http://www.cajunbooklover.blogspot.com Booky Ramblings of a Neurotic Mom - Promo and Reveal Part 8 of Taming The Fae http://bookyramblingsofaneuroticmom.blogspot.co.uk/ Sep 11 Smile Somebody Loves You - Promo http://SSLYblog.wordpress.com 2 Girls & A Book - Promo, Review, Dream Cast & Reveal Part 9 of Taming The Fae  http://2girlsandabook.wordpress.com/ Sep 12 Undercover Book Reviews - Promo http://undercoverbookreviews.blogspot.com/ Sep 15 iHeart Books by MiLo18 - Promo https://iHeartBooksbyMiLo18.blogspot.com Sep 16 Diane's Book Blog - Promo & Reveal Part 10 of Taming The Fae  http://dianes-book.blogspot.com Sep 17 Breny's Book Obsession - Promo & Reveal Part 11 of Taming The Fae http://brenysbookobsession.blogspot.com/ Sep 18 Bookworm for Kids - Review - Book 1 http://www.bookwormforkids.blogspot.com Sep 19 Eclipse Reviews - Promo, Dreamcast, Book Soundtrack & Reveal Part 12 of Taming The Fae http://www.eclipsereviews.weebly.com Sep 22 Portals to New Worlds - Promo, Dreamcast, Book Soundtrack & Reveal Part 13 of Taming The Fae http://authorkarenswart.blogspot.com Sep 23 Book Nook Nuts - Promo & Reveal Part 14 of Taming The Fae http://booknooknuts.blogspot.com/ Sep 23 Indy Book Fairy - Promo & Reveal Part 15 of Taming The Fae http://paranormalbookfairy.blogspot.com/ Sep 25 Lindsay and Jane's Views and Reviews - Review http://lindsayandjaneviewsandreviews.blogspot.co.uk/ Sep 26 Hooked On Books Forever - Promo & Review http://hookedonbooksforever.blogspot.co.uk/ Sep 29 Deal Sharing Aunt - Promo http://www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com Sep 30 Dalene's Book Reviews - Promo, Review, Book Soundtrack & Reveal Part 16 of Taming The Fae  http://dalenesbookreviews.blogspot.com/ Book Butterfly in Dreamland - Review http://purpleshadowhunter.blogspot.com/

Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Colors of Us by @SandraBunino

 

Colors of Us

McAvery Brothers

Book One

Sandra Bunino

Genre: Contemporary Romance/New Adult

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Number of pages: 240

Word Count: 62,000

ISBN: 9781771309783

ASIN: B00MwFP98E

Cover Artist: Sour Cherry Designs

Book Description:

Everything she knew to be true fell apart. Then fell apart again…

Michelle Willis is running from her past. What better place to hide than in the anonymity of New York City. Finding refuge in a tiny SoHo art gallery, she rebuilds her life one painting at a time.

A wrong turn sends Hunter McAvery on a crash course with disaster. He fights his own demons by following his big brother’s lead - drinking and bed-hopping his way through Manhattan.

A glance at Michelle’s self-portrait triggers emotions Hunter can’t tamp down. Driven to meet the artist, he discovers a fiery chemistry as their lives collide. But when their past threatens to tear them apart, can their love survive?

Available at Amazon Amazon UK

Evernight Publishing ARe Smashwords

Music Playlist: https://play.spotify.com/user/12134886106/playlist/07orDaxcxJE4sfSZW59Loa

“I think pink is your color. It looks great against your dark hair.” Reaching past her shoulder, he curled a strand of her hair between his fingers and tugged gently before letting it fall onto her shoulder.

Meeting his gaze, she smiled. “Thanks.” Michelle wasn’t used to compliments. It’d been her goal to fade into the crowd and not to call attention to herself. But her self-imposed rules seemed to float away around Hunter McAvery.

Returning her smile, he continued the lesson. “After you slide your hands into the opening, you’ll wind the long strap around your fingers and wrist like this.” Holding her fingers in his hand, he wound the dangling strap around her palm and over her knuckles. “You want to protect the part of your hand that meets the bag.”

He stepped closer as he slipped the strap around the base of her thumb. When he brushed his fingertips against the sensitive area just below the fleshy part of her palm, a shiver shot up her arm and traveled to her belly. His warm breath ghosted her face as he circled the end of the strap around her wrist and secured the Velcro tab. Before she knew it, strong fingers captured her left hand and guided her arm to the warmth between their bodies. She itched to graze her fingers along his muscled chest, capturing his heat with her palm. Her gaze bounced to his neck and stubbled jaw, which clenched as he slid the other wrap over her hand. Slowly wrapping her other wrist, he secured the strap and held both of her gloved hands in his. “Make a fist,” he said huskily.

Tightening her hands into a ball, she tucked her thumb around the outside of her fingers like he showed her at the gym.

He squeezed her fists. “They look good. You’re a badass.”

Michelle snorted. “A badass in pink.”

“Let’s see what you got. Show me some upper cuts. Right here.” He tapped his abs.

“You want me to hit you?” She giggled.

“Sure. I can take it.”

Turning her palms up, she made a fist and alternated soft punches to his belly. His rock-hard belly. Each strike made her aware of how alive he made her feel. The force of impact sent ripples up his tight shirt, awakening the planes of his muscular form. She gulped back the desire to open her fists and run her fingertips along the line of each thick muscle.

His hands came to rest on her forearms, halting her movement. The pads of his thumbs stroked the sensitive skin near the inside of her elbow causing a delicious shiver up her arm. Michelle’s eyes met his. The fire brewing in his darkened gaze drew her in. Hunter stepped between her legs, nudging her back against the wall next to the mural. She closed her eyes and choked back a groan, wanting—no, needing—to grind her heat on his leg. Raising her arms above her, he pinned them against the wall on either side of her head. His scent flooded her senses as she lifted her chin to close the gap between them.

“I’m trying like hell not to kiss you.” Hunter straightened his back but didn’t loosen his grip on her arms.

Her skin prickled from the nearness of his body. She let her gaze drift to his lips. “Why?” she whispered.

He blew a slow breath between his teeth. “Nothing good would come of it. I’m not capable of giving or feeling… or offering anything much to you.” He shook his head but he didn’t move from her body.

“I don’t believe that.” Michelle wriggled her arms from his grasp. Her fingertips lingered on his corded forearms, which flexed under her touch. Easing a trail toward his shoulders, her fingers reminded her of a paintbrush’s first dab of color on a fresh canvas. She’d always believed each canvas had a personality of its own, and it was the symphony of the brush, artist, and canvas that created the work of art. She wanted to explore the blank canvas of Hunter McAvery.

She studied his arms, still caging her in. Protecting her. Wanting her. Her eyes met his gaze. He stared at her, unmoving, but a spark burned in his eyes. She held her breath, afraid to break his trance. Her palms smoothed over his shoulders and down his chest, stopping at the center of his ribs. Pushing into the muscles of his chest, she felt the strong beat of his heart on her fingers. “Kiss me, Hunter.” Raising her eyebrows, she dared to look him in the eyes, almost afraid of what she’d see.

“You don’t understand. You’re too… good.” He averted his gaze.

“Maybe you should let me decide what’s good for me.” She moved closer, his breath burned hot on her face, and he squeezed his eyes closed.

“Michelle….”

Her hands traveled up his chest and rested on the bulk of his strong shoulders. Pulling him in, her breasts molded into his chest and, finally, he crashed his lips down on hers. She met every stroke of his tongue as her fingers raked through the ends of his hair. Moaning into his mouth, she straddled his muscular thigh as warmth flooded her sex. She’d never felt more alive.

His hand grazed her cheek before taking her chin between his thumb and index finger and pulling away from their kiss. He tipped his forehead to hers, his raspy breath hot on her mouth. “Shit.”

Michelle widened her eyes. “What?” she whispered.

“You. Me. This just can’t happen. Not now. Not like this.”

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

A writer wasn’t at the type of my list of “things to be” as I was growing up. At first I wanted to be a Dallas Cowboy cheerleader (no joke), then a singer (until I figured out I really could not sing). As I matured I had more realistic aspirations: architect, teacher, and a businesswoman. I hadn’t considered writing as a profession until a few years ago.

When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?

I’ve always written so I guess I’ve always been a writer. However, it wasn’t real to me until I signed my first contract in 2011.

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

It happened pretty fast for me after I finished my first manuscript, within a few months.

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

I work full time in the corporate world.

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 release is Colors of Us (McAvery Brothers series, 1). Twenty words? Okay, I’ll give it a shot: Artist and bartender lives collide opening old wounds. Unwilling to unlock their heart, but forced to reveal their true colors.

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

I publish with Everngight Publishing.

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

Colors of Us took almost one year to finish because I planned and wrote parts the two other books in the McAvery Brothers series while working on the manuscript for book one.

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

I’m currently working on Alex and Miranda’s story, Passion of Us, book 2 in this series. I love the contemporary romance genre and have many more books planned in this genre.

What genre would you place your books into?

I consider contemporary romance to be my genre of choice. I’ve written erotic, BDSM and New Adult contemporary titles.

What made you decide to write that genre of book?

I tend to write what I like to read and I’m a contemporary romance girl.

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

I love Hunter McAvery from Colors of Us. He’s trying so hard to turn his life around. He’s not afraid to face his past but doesn’t let anyone see the internal demons he fights on a daily basis. His feelings for Michelle come on hard and strong. Even though he wants her so much it scares him, he protects her by pushing her away.

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

I’ve been writing seriously for about four years. Stories always popped into my head based on life experiences and observations. One day I started writing them down.

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

I wrote where I can: coffee shops, in my car while waiting for my son, in bed before going to sleep, in my little writing nook and poolside at a book conference in Las Vegas (that’s where I am now!).

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

Yes. I read my reviews. I find reviews helpful for the most part. Authors must develop a thick skin in the publishing business.

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

I usually struggle with the perfect title right before I submit the manuscript. An author friend helped my come up with the title for Colors of Us.

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

Some are made up and some are in honor of people I know. The heroine, Michelle, and her friend, Cheyenne, are named after two very special and talented women I know and respect.

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

I love eBooks but I also love their paper/hardback counterparts. I’ll read any media.

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

My all-time favorite books is Outlander by Diana Gabaldon.  I’ve read it more than once and will probably red it again.

Do you think books transfer to movies well?

I do think they transfer well. I’m loving The Outlander series on STARZ.

Your favorite food is?

Any kind of pasta and seafood.

Your favorite singer/group is?

I’m into Ed Sheeran and The Script lately.

Your favorite color is?

Red

Your favorite Author is?

I have too many to name!

 

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Sandra Bunino is a romance author of several novellas including The Satin Rose Experience series. Her first full-length novel, Colors of Us from the McAvery Brothers series, released in August. She makes her parents proud by putting her MBA degree to good use dreaming up heroes who resemble David Gandy whenever possible. When not staying up past her bedtime torturing her oh-so-sexy heroes, she can be found shopping for shoes or saving turtles.

As a social media junkie in need of a ten-step program, you can also follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and her new addiction, Pinterest. Sandra loves to read and chat with other readers, so she formed the Bunino’s Bookalicious Babes group on Facebook where they currently share their love of Jamie Fraser from Outlanders…and David Gandy, of course.

Website: http://sandrabunino.com

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5406952.Sandra_Bunino

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandraBunino

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

Bookalicious Babes Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/597429020306289/

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/sandrabunino/

Bookalicious Babes mailing list: http://eepurl.com/LuwPL

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Teasing Hands by Elena M. Reyes

Event Organized by ❤MaE Book Tours & Promo Stars Services❤

❤Cover Design by: N. Isabelle Blanco ❤

Synopsis The hands kneading my flesh into submission are strong, yet gentle. Rough yet tender. His talented fingers dig deep into my naked flesh applying the perfect amount of pressure, bending me to his will. His will which now entices me and burns itself into my every pore, ruining me for any other’s touch—but his. Once a stubborn and independent woman, I find myself wanting to submit; to give him all that I am and power over everything I can be with his guidance. Camden Daniels has a voice full of sin built to destroy my mental walls. The dulcet sonnet of his tone controls my resolve with but a single utterance from his lips: “Undress for me."

Genre Erotica/ Contemporary Romance

Expected Publication Date September 17th 2014

About the Author

Elena M. Reyes was born and raised in Miami Florida. She is the epitome of a Floridian and if she could live in her beloved flip-flops, she would. As a small child, she was always intrigued with all forms of art—whether it was dancing to island rhythms, or painting with any medium she could get her hands on. Her first taste of writing came to her during her fifth grade year when her class was prompted to participate in the D. A. R. E. Program and write an essay on what they’d learned. Her passion for reading over the years has amassed her with hours of pleasure. It wasn't until she stumbled upon fanfiction that her thirst to write overtook her world. She now resides in Central Florida with her husband and son, spending all her down time letting her creativity flow and letting her characters grow.

Connect with Elena M. Reyes!

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Cover Reveal: The Green Dagger by Kelly Hess

 

The Green Dagger (BlackMyst Trilogy) by Kelly Hess

Publisher: Booktrope

Expected Publication: December 2, 2014

Genre: Middle Grade, Fantasy

Tensions rise between Delvengard and Sorak as the Sorak queen demands the return of the Blade of Torrill. As Delvengard scrambles to locate the mythical weapon, many fear war is inevitable. Fritz, who secretly possesses the dagger, is tormented by its evil. Eager to take control of its power, he journeys in search of a mysterious being who may be able to help. The Green Dagger, Book Two of the BlackMyst Trilogy, continues the adventure, five years after the events of Book One, Eyes of the Enemy.

Add to Goodreads

About the Author

Kelly Hess grew up with a love of reading science fiction and fantasy that inspired him to write his own fantasy trilogy. He lives in Vacaville, California with his wife and son, and is putting the final details on the last two books of his BlackMyst Trilogy: The Green Dagger and The Third Power.

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Book Blast:Chandrea: The Return of the Avatar Queen by Marlene Wynn

 

 

Chandrea:

The Return of the Avatar Queen

Marlene Wynn

Book Description:

Chandrea Averill thinks she’s just like any other normal young woman. But, on the day of her 23rd birthday, her life changes forever. Surrounded by magical creatures, dangerous sorcery, and insidious political intrigue,

Chandrea desperately wants to return to Earth and the only life she’s ever known. But, the longer she stays, the more she realizes that she may be the only one with the power – both magical and political – to save the people of Lyrunia.

Will she find the courage to remain and fight for her home world?

Book trailer http://youtu.be/lzJpY3nai34

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The morning sky was overcast and cloudy and a stiff southwesterly wind blew the grasses erratically. A bank of heavy, dark grey clouds were visible over the horizon to the south, and it was moving quickly towards her. The constant flashes and murmur of thunder confirmed that she was in for a bad storm, and had nowhere to take shelter. She didn’t know how long it would take for it to reach her, but she wanted to be closer to civilization when it did. And she did not want to get caught in an electrical storm out in the open.

Chandrea started to walk, and after a few minutes began to jog, though it was not easy to do on the uneven ground. Her pulse quickened as her body warmed up to the accustomed exercise, and she made quick work of the first couple of miles. But, you can only push an already weakened body so hard before it starts to reach its limits, and, as she anticipated, she began to labor, her breaths coming in short ragged pants, her throat hot and dry. She slowed to a walk until she got her breath back.

Looking anxiously to her right, she saw that, despite her brief run, the clouds had come much closer, and that the clashing lightning and thunder were almost on top of her. Flutters of fear crawled down her spine and made a home in her belly. This was not good. Chandrea looked around for some place to find protection. Though the grasses seemed to be thinning out and she was seeing small scrubby bushes here and there, there still weren’t any signs of civilization, so she continued to walk tiredly east.

The brisk wind turned into powerful gusts, and she had to lean to avoid being thrown off her feet. Dust and debris were torn from the ground and swirled all around her, and she was forced to raise her hands to shield her eyes. Lightning struck nearby, followed by a powerful blast of thunder that shook the ground. Chandrea cringed and screamed in raw fear.

She felt the first few warm splashes of water on her skin, and looking up, saw that the bulk of the sky had turned a deep heavy looking grey. She began to run again, the flight instinct now in full control of her.

The heavens opened up and rain came sheeting down. The drops were huge at first, but quickly became small and piercing as they pelted her skin. Her clothing soon became saturated, weighing her down.

Lightning flashed all around her, dazzling bursts of light followed closely by violent claps of thunder. The strikes blew chunks of dirt and debris into the wind. The world was shaken by the repeated crack of thunder and her eardrums throbbed in painful harmony from the overwhelming sounds.

Animal instinct took over. Throwing herself to her knees, she clawed at the dirt. Her breath came in terrified, ragged gasps, but she was all but oblivious to it as she dug and tore at the stubborn soil. Every time lightning struck near her, she screamed and ducked, covering her head with her arms in an unconscious effort to protect herself, and then continued digging.

She tore at the web of roots, desperate to dig a hole she could take shelter in, but to no avail. The old grasses had been in the dry plains for a long time, and had grown their roots long and wide to find any available ground water. Without a shovel or a pick, she could make no headway, and only managed to tear her hands to the point of bleeding in the effort.

Gasping, she stopped and looked around with wild, frightened eyes. The world around her had gone mad. Lightning struck rapidly now, all around her, for miles in all directions, and the sharp booming thunder was close on its heels.

A small, sane portion of her mind recognized that she should hunker down and try to make the smallest target of herself possible, but that was akin to taking your eyes off the hungry lion crouched nearby and hoping it wouldn’t notice you. Instead, she knelt and watched with horrified fascination as the prairie took a beating from mother nature. Her entire body shook from the fear that washed through her, and she knew that at any moment lightning would strike and kill her.

Without conscious thought or effort, her magic bloomed to life. She gasped at the suddenness of it, yet welcomed it with a desperate hope. She felt it growing and expanding inside her, filling her completely with an eerie, tingling sensation. What was happening? What would her magic do this time?

Her skin began to glow a soft ethereal white. She held her hands out in front of her, and, despite the dangers surrounding her, wonder filled her at the sight. She’d seen her skin glow before, but never so clearly. The glow rapidly enveloped her until she was encased by a soft white ball of energy that extended a few feet out from her on all sides. The wind and rain no longer affected her, apparently unable to penetrate her protective sphere.

Curious, she poked a finger at the ball. It rippled like water when she touched it. She became bolder and stuck her whole arm out. Once again, the wind, rain, and nearby grass stalks pelted her tender skin. She pulled her arm and hand back inside and the sensations ceased.

She looked around with a newfound sense of security. The storm raged on around her, but in her sheltering bubble, it seemed that none of the elements could touch her. She gasped as a bolt of lightning struck nearby. She could only hope that the bubble would protect her against the lightning strikes as well.

With a frightening intensity, suddenly a new roaring sound filled her senses, causing her to gasp and duck involuntarily. It was followed immediately by anther, and another, each successfully competing in volume and depth with the crashing thunder. But, these new sounds weren’t caused by mother nature.

It was almost as if a whole pride of hungry lions were surrounding her, and roaring in excitement of the hunt and the kill to come.

But, it couldn’t be lions, for, like the thunder, these sounds came from the sky itself.

Some had a deep, throbbing quality to them. Others were shrill and almost metallic. All of them were terrifying.

Chandrea tried to determine what was up there in the deep dark grey of the clouds. It was difficult to see through the soft glow of her bubble. When several lightning bolts struck, causing a strobe effect, she sucked in her breath in disbelieving terror at what she saw.

Silhouetted in brief, white-clad glory, were dozens upon dozens of dragons of various shapes and sizes. Each time the lightning flashed, it would cause a still-life effect of the great beasts circling in the sky with an almost playful air about them. With huge, earth- shaking roars, some shot massive flames from their mouths, causing the heavens and the ground far below to be lit by the intense yellow-red flare.

But what was the most astonishing to Chandrea was when one of the monsters would get hit by a bolt of lightning. It would open its immense, toothy maw in what appeared to be almost a silent scream, then arch its back and long serpentine neck as though in ecstasy.

She watched in awed amazement as one of the airborne dragons was struck by a large bolt of energy. The massive creature’s blue scales briefly burst into glittering brilliance. Small electrical charges snaked and popped across their surface. A large, bright turquoise nimbus shimmered around the rapturous dragon. It temporarily highlighted the dragons surrounding it until the dazzling luminescence died down to a soft glow. Once the strike was finished, the dragon would start to swoop and circle faster, almost daring the lightning to come again.

Chandrea felt her heart would beat its way right out of her chest. She could actually feel her chest vibrating from the intensity of her heartbeat. She panted, feeling cornered and very small. Her protective shield may keep the lightning and elements at bay. But its glow might be noticed by the serpents in the sky. Would a human make a tasty treat during a dragon sky party?

God, she wanted to go home.

The storm went on for what seemed like an eternity. Chandrea felt rather like the little field mouse trapped in the corner of a covey of cats, hoping upon hope that it wouldn’t be noticed, but knowing in its heart that eventually it would be. A part of her couldn’t help but be fascinated by the colorful display of serpentine bodies soaring high above her, at times almost floating in their deadly dances. Death, it seemed, had a very mesmerizing effect on her.

Eventually, the storm started to weaken, the lightning and thunder to come less and less, and the bulk of the dragons began to disperse. Though it was still quite dark around her, she started to breathe a little easier, thinking she might just come out of this alive. Her magical ball, reacting instinctively to the lessening threat, dissipated then vanished completely.

Then one of the dragons swooped down out of the sky and landed right in front of her, folding its wings flat against its back.

It was difficult for Chandrea to see the beast clearly in the gloom of the storm clouds, with only the occasional lightning flash. But, boy, could she smell it. Its body reeked of moldy ash, its hot breath of rotten flesh. Its eyes, as large as her body was tall, glowed a sullen dirty yellow in the grey light of the day. It was immense. Its head and shoulders were about thirty feet over Chandrea’s head, and looked like it was no less than 140 feet from the tip of its nose to the tip of its tail. Its legs were as thick as tree trunks, and long, wickedly sharp claws adorned its massive feet. Its scales dully reflected the dim afternoon light in shades of rusty red, while the underside of it was a soft tan color. Copper colored spikes of different sizes ran from its snout, along its spine and down the length of its long tail. At the end of its tail were numerous long, sharp spikes. Nestled atop its massive head was a pair of lengthy horns that pointed straight back.

Lowering its head, it sniffed at the air above her, apparently trying to determine what she was, and if she was edible. Its long, forked tongue licked the air. Chandrea tried not to gag as its foul breath washed over her in hot waves.

Rearing back, the beast then cocked its head to the side, and eyeing Chandrea, it said in a soft, deep voice filled with menace, yet somehow female-sounding, “Ah…what do we have here? A lone, unprotected human out in the grasslands.”

Narrowing her sulfur-colored eyes, the dragon moved a bit closer to her and murmured in satisfaction, “Yes… you’ll make a nice meal for my hatchling.”

Chandrea blinked up at it in stunned surprise. The creature could speak!

Belatedly, the dragon’s words finally registered in her mind. Terror lanced through Chandrea. She was trapped! She could never even hope to out-run this creature even at her top physical best. In her weakened condition, it was a laughable concept at best. She had nowhere to hide, and nowhere to take shelter, surrounded as she was by miles of grass.

Unbidden, her magic rushed to the surface, once again responding to her fight or flight instinct. This time, though, it came much faster, absent one moment, there the next. She could feel it rushing through her, instantly filling her every fiber and pore. Energy snapped around her, and her eyes and skin glowed with a pearlescent sheen. Her breathing deepened as she stood up from the ground and faced the beast before her.

The dragon growled in anticipation. Flame and smoke started to lick out of its snout, and in a rush, it lowered its head, roared, and shot out a huge column of white-hot flame, aimed right at Chandrea!

Feeling as though she were a distant observer of her own body, she watched as she raised her hands in a defensive position and her magic called up a shield.

She had a mental flash of the dream the Dark Fairy had cast on her, where she drew the energy from all the objects around her to fuel her magic, and attempted it again. She siphoned the energy from the dragon’s flames into her body, using the very thing that was threatening her to protect her. She could feel the intense heat pouring into her body, almost burning her from the inside out, and, before they could even reach her, the flames from the dragon sputtered harmlessly out.

Upon seeing this, the dragon narrowed its eyes, lowered its head, and growled menacingly. Her body throbbed in harmony with the deep resonation and the very ground seemed to vibrate beneath her.

Chandrea frantically tried to figure out what she could do to scare this creature away. She was supposed to be the most powerful sorceress in this world, but her magic was untested and very unreliable. However, she didn’t see as she had much choice in the matter. She couldn’t very well use her Taekwondo on this monster! And running was definitely not an option. So, even as the dragon’s growl was echoing off in the distance, she decided to stand and fight as best she could with what she had, and hope that the dragon didn’t eat her before she could conjure anything up. Were dragons like birds? Did they eat their prey and then regurgitate it for their young? She quickly banished that horrifying image from her mind and focused on the task at hand. She would try to use fire again. She would just have to do it better than last time. And quicker.

Chandrea concentrated. She could feel the dragon’s hot energy swirling around inside her, growing ever stronger, mixing with her own fear and panic to create a maelstrom of intense power.

She stopped focusing on the shield in front of her and it simply disappeared, the energy rushing back into her. Her skin suddenly glowed a fiery red. She raised her hands, and, as Adelaide had taught her, with a mighty mental and physical shove, she flung the energy from her own body out at the beast. Chandrea watched as a great ball of flame materialized and was cast out at the dragon. Like before, when she’d tried to create fire, this ball was intensely white hot on the inside and deep yellow and red on the outside. However, this ball didn’t have as far to go as the first time, and instead of plowing through huge swaths of trees, it plowed into the dragon directly in front of her…

…and blew out as it struck, as though nothing had happened at all.

Unable to fathom what had just happened, Chandrea just stood there in stupefaction. Her magic had just dissipated on the scales of the dragon and done nothing at all.

The dragon looked somehow amused by this turn of events. Chandrea would’ve sworn the beast even smiled. Lifting her mighty head, the serpent then carried the motion even further and stood on her hind legs. Clawing at the air in front of her and spreading her massive wings wide, she bellowed out a trumpeting call that echoed up and down the grasslands and throbbed painfully in the tiny earthling’s ears.

Chandrea threw her hands over her ears in a feeble attempt to lessen the sound, but to no avail. Then, the massive reptile lowered its body, jaws open, clearly intending to finish this one-sided battle by devouring her whole.

An answering bellow washed over her from above as a second dragon plummeted from the sky to crash into the first one, knocking it from its feet with a powerful blow. Chandrea screamed and jumped to the side, narrowly missing the powerful swipe of a tail studded with spikes. Chunks of dirt and grass were gouged out of the ground where she’d previously stood, showering her with grit and hard rocks.

This new dragon was unlike any she’d ever imagined or seen in fairy tales. It had scales on its belly, but its back and wings were covered with feathers. Its head and legs were a bright, scarlet red. The feathers on its legs were short and spiky, while the ones surrounding its head were long and stiff, and puffed out, making it look both fierce and dangerous. The beast’s back, body and tail were covered with short, dense feathers in a striking deep indigo color. Its deep and muscular chest narrowed down into a snakelike torso and a tail that was covered in spikes. It had what appeared to be two sets of wings. One was a feathered set, shaped rather like immense eagle wings and were the same indigo color as its body. The second set were over the first, and were covered with ocher-colored scales, the same color of its belly. This second set of wings were much larger than the first, and tipped with razor sharp claws. Where the first dragon was large and muscular, the second one was long and slender. The first dragon was the stronger of the two by far, but what the second one lacked in strength, it made up for in speed and its sinuous body. Its movements were a blur to watch, as it snaked its way around its bigger foe, striking with lightning quick attacks and then slithering out of reach of the larger dragon.

With ear-splitting snarls and growls, the two beasts flipped and rolled across the prairie, savagely tearing at each other.

Chandrea, panting from the fear of the sudden attack, scuttled backwards in the grass, trying to get as far away from the two battling titans as possible.

When no headway could seem to be gained by either one, the two monsters backed warily away from each other. Growling fiercely, they flapped their wings, extended their necks, and slammed their tails on the ground, all in an attempt to show strength, power and dominance over the other.

The larger dragon rushed the smaller one, but in a sudden blur of motion, the blue one slithered its body around its larger opponent. Using its own momentum against it and reminding Chandrea of a javelin toss, the blue one spun the rusty red beast back around and threw it across the field. The dragon landed with an earth-shaking thud that threatened to throw Chandrea from her feet.

Spinning around, the blue dragon jerked its head back and forth until it found Chandrea. It hunched down, then gave a mighty leap, and flapping its massive wings, swooped up then back down, heading directly for Chandrea.

With a scream, Chandrea spun on her heels and tried to run away, but what little speed she could muster was nothing in comparison to the flying monster. To her horror, its sharp claws grabbed her up and before she knew it, they were airborne.

Chandrea clutched at the long talons that held her in their grasp. The grasslands dropped away below and her stomach dropped. The huge wings of the dragon flapped quickly in an effort to get the beast and its prize higher in the air. She could feel the rhythmic motion of its muscles working, and the roaring sound of the wind assaulted her ears.

Craning her head down and around, Chandrea frantically checked on the whereabouts of the red dragon. Her eyes widened as she saw it taking to the air in pursuit of her stolen meal.

Dear God…how did she get into these things?

And how was she going to get out? The claws, even though none of them had actually pierced her skin, were holding her as securely as any jail cell. And, as far up in the air as they were now, even if she could get out, she would fall to her death.

Watching behind her in horrified fascination, she saw the larger dragon was having difficulty keeping up with its prey. But it clearly was not giving up. With a roar, it doubled its efforts, cutting through the misty clouds.

Up the trio soared, higher and higher, until they were engulfed in clouds and Chandrea couldn’t see the ground anymore. Nor could she see the rusty red beast that had been chasing them, which was particularly worrisome to her.

Cool, misty air rushed over her as the blue dragon climbed with powerful thrusts of its wings. Her wet clothes and hair whipped around in the wind, and she found herself wishing for a ponytail holder. A hysterical giggle threatened to burble out of her throat at the thought, but at the last minute she was able to halt it. She knew that if she let it out, she might never stop.

Without warning, they reached the top of the storm clouds, and with a final flap, burst out into bright sunshine. Once above the clouds, the blue dragon settled in and took to soaring, only flapping its wings occasionally to maintain its altitude.

Squinting against the glare, Chandrea couldn’t help but look about her in wonder. Spread out for miles below them was the massive storm, its dark clouds large and menacing. Even heading away from the storm as they were, she could still hear the occasional rumble of thunder and see the clouds light up with the strobes of lightning encased within. Above them, the sky was pristinely blue, the sun a huge golden ball of light. Warm air now gently passed over her as the dragon glided in the stillness of the heavens.

But as beautiful and peaceful as it was, Chandrea could not fully relax and enjoy it. She knew her life would soon be cut short in a horribly violent fashion. Against her better judgment, she pictured the dragon landing amongst its young then standing back in peaceful satisfaction as the babies tore her to bloody pieces with their sharp teeth and claws. She began to tremble violently, her breath coming in short, sharp pants.

However, eventually the gentle peace of the heavens did help to make the mortal fear coursing through her veins a little more bearable. Trying to make herself as comfortable as possible in the hard claws of her cell, she did the only thing she could at that point: she settled back for the ride.

They flew for hours. It was rather like flying in a passenger airplane, but with a much better view. She saw farms, cities, forests, and hills all passing beneath them. People and animals looked like tiny ants scurrying around on the ground. Were they even aware of what was flying up here?

The one thing that she didn’t see, thankfully, was the red dragon. The speed of her captor must have finally worn the bigger dragon down.

As the day wore into evening, the dragon finally started to descend toward a large grassy meadow filled with wildflowers. Large leafy trees surrounded it in an uneven circle, and the sounds of night insects were humming in the air. Off to the side was a small crystalline lake, the sun glistening off its gentle waves.

Fear started to flutter again in her chest, and her breathing hitched. If she’d had anything in her stomach, it would’ve come back up. So this lovely, serene place was where she would die.

She wondered where the beast’s nest was.

She wondered if it would hurt terribly when the hatchling tore her apart.

She wondered how long it would take her to die.

 

 

Marlene Wynn is a Utah native - fondly referred to as "Utonian" by a friend. She transplanted herself in 1992 from the majestic Rocky Mountains to the beachy shores of sunny Virginia Beach, Virginia and has been there ever since. Though she has worked in the benefits field for several years, she finally worked up the courage to chase her dream as an author.

Website: https://www.marlenewynn.com

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Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Promise of Magic by @melindavan

 

 

Promise of Magic

House of Xannon

Book 3

Melinda VanLone

Genre: urban fantasy

ISBN: 978-0-9887455-4-4

ASIN: TBD

Word Count: 65k

Cover Artist: bookcovercorner.com

Book Description:

On instinct, Tarian bowed her head in return, shocked. “Dulra. Welcome.” She breathed the words, awed by the presence of creatures she’d only known through legends. What is the Balance Court doing here?

“Tarian A’marie Maitea Xannon, of the House of Xannon, Keeper of the Water Artifact, you are summoned to the Balance Court.”

She’d been summoned, and every particle of her being cried out to answer it.

Despite the advanced stage of her pregnancy, Tarian has some explaining to do. Fulfilling her Agreement with the Carraig was an issue of honor—but it led to complications. The Keeper of the House of Xannon is called to account, and Tarian must embark on a dangerous mission which could cost her the life of her unborn daughter, end in disaster for all planes of existence—or save the world.

Some promises are deadly to keep. Will the promise of magic be one of them?

Tarian forced her eyes open to focus on the rock in front of her. Earth as dense as anything she’d ever seen, more power than she’d ever experienced. The feeling of old that surrounded it. The sense of longing as if the stone itself wanted freedom from the long and arduous task it had been set. She grabbed onto the longing and let the stream of energy pour into it, into the Stulos, then twisted it as she’d done once before. Another twist, and the flow of power into the Stulos reversed. Three streams of colored light became one solid column of white.

A thousand voices sounded in her head. High ones, low ones, her sister’s voice, dolphin cries and emotion, all around and through her. The energy bound them into something greater than mere humans and Ancients. They were timeless. Eternal. It was almost like she felt when she made love with Daric, but…different. At once more intense and at the same time more encompassing. Less personal. More global. As though the universe spoke through her, and she through it. The awe of it. Tears spilled onto her cheeks.

Another cramp gripped her body and she swayed on her knees, gripping the rock as it crumbled, trying to maintain her balance as the ground shifted and her body twisted. Not now. Too soon. Not now. Too soon. She couldn’t be…the baby couldn’t be…

The voices rose in her head. Everyone joined in as the power flowed around and through, around and through, until she, the Caraigg, her sister, the baby, and the dolphins were all one with it. The crack in the Stulos widened, a giant lesion extending from the floor all the way up until she couldn’t see the end. Cold retreated, heat entered. A loud snap. The Stulos shattered into a million pieces that hung suspended in air for a flash of eternity before rushing outward to the edges of the cavern.

A dolphin cry sounded, triumphant, exalted, as the world exploded in a rain of cold fire, magic power, ash and lava.

Character Name:

Tarian A’marie Maitea Xannon

Character Bio:

Tarian Xannon is the Keeper of the Dolphin Throne, though she was hoping to wait a lot longer to inherit the title. But due to the untimely death of her mother, she’s now the leader of the magical Society, and in the process of providing the next heir, along with picking up the pieces from the epic battle that stole her mother’s life. She’s 25 years old, and would much rather be either in the ocean swimming with the Water Ancients, sparring with her best friend in the Arena, or hanging out in Philadelphia at her favorite coffee shop.

This interview took place before Tarian launched into the chaos of Promise of Magic.

 

What is your worst and best quality?

I never really thought about it before. My mother would have told you I’m stubborn, quick to act, and too independent. Those seem like good qualities to me. But I doubt she’d agree.

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

I’m okay with people not knowing much about me. Knowledge is power, I’ve been told.

What is your biggest secret?

*Rubs belly* The baby. I had to make deals to save my family that resulted in…well. Let’s just say that as much as I fought against it in the beginning, I’m glad I had to go through the Succession Ritual, because the world will never know exactly who her fathers are. I used to think it was a ridiculous way of providing an heir, but now…well. It’s better this way.

What are you most afraid of?

I’m not easily scared off. Though lately, being pregnant has made me a little more cautious. I’m not afraid of it. Not exactly. Just not sure I’m really great mother material.

What do you want more than anything?

I want to keep my family and friends safe. And I want to be a good leader. *Laughs* Not sure that’s possible. I’m not my mother. Calliope is really much better suited for the title of Keeper, but I’m stuck with it so I’ll muddle through. Somehow.

What is your relationship status?

You mean like marriage? *shakes head* As the Keeper and leader of the Society, I won’t ever be married. Our family is matriarchal, both the title and the responsibility are passed from mother to daughter. I do have Daric, though. He’s as close as I’ll ever get to a stable relationship. He’s my lover and my friend. And one of the men who helped produced this child.

How would you describe your sense of fashion?

Non existent? *laughs* Calliope is much more the fashionista. Give me jeans and a tank top any day.

How much of a rebel are you?

I’m sure my mother thought I was a rebel of the worst kind. But I wouldn’t call it that. I see the need for rules. I just don’t agree with all of them.

What do you considered to be your greatest achievement?

I’m not sure I have one. Yet. I know some would call motherhood their greatest achievement, but…I’m not so sure about that. Maybe you should ask the baby when she’s grown up.

What is your idea of happiness?

Happiness is being in the ocean, surrounded by my strongest element, riding the freedom of the waves. It’s the only place I can be alone, except for the Water Ancients of course. And I love visiting them.

What is your current state of mind?

Uh…I don’t know. Irritated? Pregnancy has slowed me down, and I don’t like that. I’m not used to my body being this shape. I can’t fight. I can’t run. And she kicks me all the time! It’s like a soccer match going on in my stomach. It’s just not natural.

What is your most treasured possession?

The Dolphin Throne. It links me to the Water Ancients, and protects the house and my family. It’s been passed from mother to daughter for thousands of years. It’s why I was born, to keep and protect it.

What is your most marked characteristic?

Probably my ability to harness Water, Air and Fire. Nobody’s been able to manipulate three elements in hundreds of years. Even my mother could only tap two. Though she was much stronger in those two elements than I am, with the third I could definitely come out ahead in a fair fight.

What is it that you most dislike?

Losing control. I’ve been under the effects of a dominion spell and it was the worst moment of my life. I don’t ever, ever want to feel that way again.

Which living person do you most despise?

The last person I despised is no longer among the living, so I don’t currently despise anyone. Though I’m sure that’ll change. There’s always someone trying to piss me off.

What is your greatest regret?

Regret. Funny word. I never really knew the meaning of it until a few months ago. But now…now I know. I guess the biggest one would be that my mother will never know my child. It’s my… I don’t want to talk about it. Can’t change the past. No point in digging it up.

What is the quality you most like in a man?

Nice change of topic. I like men who are confident and able to match me in the Arena when we practice fighting. I like a man who’s comfortable being around a woman in charge. A nice smile doesn’t hurt.

What is the quality you most like in a woman?

As a lover, or as a friend? I don’t swing that way, so…yeah. As a friend. Huh. I don’t have many…any…women friends. At least…well there’s the potential for one, but I don’t really know Macari well enough to call her friend. I have my sister. She’s my rock.

Who is your favorite hero in fiction?

I don’t really do much reading. I leave that up to Calliope.

Which living person do you most admire?

Alex, for his loyalty. Daric, for his passion and friendship. My sister Calliope, for being so much like my mother it hurts sometimes. Daric’s mother…because she’s everything a mother should be.

If you’d asked me a few months ago, I’d have said…never mind.

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

Hah! I’d get this pregnancy over with. Seriously, she won’t stop kicking me.

What is your motto?

Protect my family, always.

 

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Melinda VanLone writes fantasy and science fiction, freelances as a graphic designer, and dabbles in photography. She currently lives in Rockville, Maryland, with her husband and furbabies. When she's not playing with her imaginary friends you can find her playing World of Warcraft, wandering aimlessly through the streets taking photos, or nursing coffee in Starbucks.

http://melindavan.com

twitter: @melindavan

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Series Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Lost Colony Series by @jografford

 

 

Breaking Ties

Lost Colony Series

Book One

Jo Grafford

Genre: historical romance

Publisher: Astraea Press

Date of Publication: October 16, 2013

ISBN: 978-1-62135-219-8

ASIN: B00FYIYM7A

Number of pages: 404

Word Count: 121,390

Cover Artist: Mande Matthews

Book Description:

Intelligent and well ahead of her times, ROSE PAYNE'S world is shattered after a secret betrothal to the duke’s son costs her job as a clerk in his father's household. Without a letter of recommendation, she becomes an easy target for recruiters to the Colonies. Desperate for work, she signs up for a risky overseas venture and sails for the New World, vowing never again fall for a wealthy gentleman.

Returning from a diplomatic tour in London, CHIEF MANTEO is bewitched by the elusive, fiery-haired ship clerk and determined to overcome her distrust. He contrives a daring plan to win her heart – a plan he prays will protect her from a chilling conspiracy involving murder, blood money, and a betrayal of their fledgling colony so terrifying it can only be revealed in BREAKING TIES.

Special Note: BREAKING TIES is the never-before-told rest of the story of the Lost Colony.

Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/nBB8_qcG-9I

Available at Amazon BN Smashwords Kobo Astraea Press iTunes

"You want my help." 'Twas an accusation.

"Aye."

His eyes darkened. "I save your life. I give gifts. I offer marriage." He closed the remaining distance between us, his eyes burning into mine.

I stumbled back.

"You give nothing in return," he snarled. "You only ask for more."

"I would had I something to offer," I whispered. "But I have nothing. I am nothing."

"Then what use are you to me?" He wheeled away.

I sagged against the door, eyes stinging. I blinked rapidly and pressed a hand to my stomach. Nausea rolled at the thought of informing the others of my failure.

Manteo circled the cabin like a hawk stalking its prey. 'Twas a fine room with ornately carved shelves lining one wall. Bunks were built into the next wall. A generous desk jutted from the third, overflowing with maps and navigational devices. I recognized the compass and hourglass but could not identify the other instruments. I jerked in surprise when Manteo swooped down upon me.

"I know our location." His arms shot out and slapped the wall on either side of me, hemming me to the door. "I could swim ashore from here."

"Then why do ye stay if ye can leave and save yourself?"

"Governor White gave his word to deliver me home."

"We are going to starve, Manteo. 'Tis only a matter of days now."

"Nay. You alone starve. The others eat."

"I have no appetite."

"You act as one already dead."

I straightened my back. "I accept what I cannot change."

"And I change what I cannot accept." He shifted his weight to the wall, one arm propped over my head. He drew his fingertips down the side of my face in a feather-light caress.

I closed my eyes against the rush of unbearable sweetness. He made me long for things forbidden. "'Tis within your power to help us. I am begging you."

"Very well."

My eyes flew open. "Ye will do this for us."

"For you." His voice was silken, his features as hard as granite.

I smiled tremulously. "I thank thee, Manteo. Chief Manteo, that is." The new title felt strange on my lips. I beheld him with a mixture of awe and pride.

"I have yet to name my price."

I stared, confused.

He grunted in disgust. "You refuse me as both husband and lover, so you are left with the hiring of my services."

I worried my lower lip between my teeth. At least he was willing to negotiate. His eyes flashed with lust as he followed my movements.

"I will entreat the Dares for payment."

"Nay. You are the one in my debt."

I raised and dropped my hands helplessly.

"You serve this company, no? You can serve my people, too."

"Ye would hire me as clerk?" Hope leaped in my chest at the possibilities. I would not have to part from him so soon.

"My people have no clerks." His eyes narrowed. "We have slaves."

My breath hitched. "Ye wish to punish me, humiliate me?"

"Nay, I only wish to marry you."

I briefly closed my eyes against the pain. He already knew the reason for my refusal.

"Rose."

"Say no more. I will do it. 'Twill be punishment enough to see you so often and—“ I clamped my lips.

Exultation flickered briefly across his face. "You would give up your freedom to save your friends?"

"Without question."

"Swear it," he said grimly.

"I swear it."

His eyes flared with emotion. He bent slowly 'til his breath stirred my lips. My eyelids fluttered closed. Heaven help me, for I had no will left to resist him.

"Now you will eat," Manteo commanded hoarsely. He stepped back, surveying me from head to feet.

"Eat?"

"I have no slaves so thin and weak. Go. Collect your rations." He turned from me and bent to pore over a map on the table.

I reached for the door handle, disbelieving at the curt dismissal.

"And send for Anthony. I have need of him."

I glared at his back. Faith, should I press my face to the floor as well? "Aye, master." I bit the words out and fled.

 

 

Trail of Crosses

Lost Colony Series

Book Two

Jo Grafford

Genre: historical romance

Publisher: Astraea Press

Word Count: 112,300

Cover Artist: Mande Matthews

Book Description:

Jane Mannering can shoot a rifle and handle a knife as well as any Englishman. However, she is no match for the red-painted warriors who ambush her section of a Colonial caravan the moment she and her comrades reach the shores of Virginia.

Jane plots their escape during a forced march inland, leaving a trail of maltese crosses carved on the trees – their pre-agreed upon signal of distress. All the while, she fumes over what interest their captors could possibly have in a twenty-three-year-old spinster and a rugged band of brick masons, sawyers, and farmers.

When the ruthless Chief Wanchese intercepts them at the crossroads of the Great Trading Path, Jane is shaken to discover their greatest enemy plans to keep her for himself. It’s a pity he’s the only man on two continents who’s ever stirred her heart. Alas, she has an entire colony to save, and capturing his attentions is not part of their escape plan.

Special Note: The Lost Colony Seires is the never-before-told rest of the story of the Lost Colony on Roanoke Island.

 

PREFACE

July 26, 1587 - Roanoke Island

If it had not been for the barking of the dogs and chattering of the lads who scampered at my side, I might have heard the shot - the low vibration of the string as the thin, wooden shaft released, the faint whistle of the arrow as it sliced an invisible yet deadly path through the air, the scattering of wildlife as the forest itself braced before the world's most fearsome predator. Instead, I merely felt the gentle lifting of my late father's top hat as the arrowhead sank into the aged leather and pinned it to the heart of the oak behind me.

The men assigned to guard me fired their muskets wildly into the perimeter of trees. My ears rang with their gunfire and frenzied oaths. Then the slow burn of anger took over.

I pivoted to yank the arrow, top hat and all, from the trunk. Separating the two, I jammed the damaged hat back on my head and tapped the lone arrow against my gloved hand. The miss was deliberate, meant as a taunt. Had the shadowy creature intended to kill me, I would already be dead.

I glared over my shoulder as the gunfire ceased. He remained out there, I was certain. Watching. This was a reminder that he is the hunter. I am the hunted.

Character Name: Jane Mannering

Character Bio: Tall, tan, brunette, twenty-three-year-old huntress and trapper who loves to wear men’s hats, trousers, and boots. Labeled a spinster back in London, she thumbs her nose at high society, signs up for a risky investment venture in the New World, and sails the Atlantic to become one of the first Englishwomen colonists.

 

Describe yourself. What is your worst and best quality?

 I can shoot, hunt, and trap as well as any man. Alas, I am too tall, tanned, and outspoken for the dragons of high society. They labeled me a spinster at age twenty-three and forgot about me the second I landed on the shelf. As if I give a fig about what the London dandies think of me – prancing about in their striped short pants and blasted codpieces. I vow any man who wears a codpiece must be compensating for something!

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

Nothing. I like my privacy, keep to myself, and care little for what others think about me.

What is your biggest secret, something no one knows about?

 I do want to fall in love someday when I’m good and ready, but he won’t fit the London mold. Nay, he’ll be a man of my own choosing. Taller than me, stronger than me, someone who can hold his own in a fight.

What are you most afraid of?

 Failure

What do you want more than anything?

To rescue the ambushed and enslaved members of my colony

What is your relationship status?

 I don’t care much for the term “spinster.” I prefer to think of myself as unattached and free to say and do as I please.

How would you describe your sense of fashion?

 I despise the dictates of London fashion. ‘Tis painfully difficult to walk and even harder to breath in a ball gown. I’ll take a pair of men’s trousers and good sturdy boots any day over a bloody gown.

How much of a rebel are you?

Enough to board a ship and never look back. I hope to build a new life for myself on the other side of the world, my kind of life.

What do you considered to be your greatest achievement?

After years of practice, I can throw a knife further and straighter than most men.

What is your idea of happiness?

To live in a cabin on a few acres of land I own free and clear of any man

What is your current state of mind?

Worried sick over our missing colonists – especially for the women and children

What is your most treasured possession?

A set of knives and a worn, leather top hat from my late father

What is your most marked characteristic?

I am taller than all the women in our colony and half the men as well

What is it that you most dislike?

Artifice

Which living person do you most despise?

Roger Bailie. He’s a pompous oaf who cares more about stealing the title of governor than gathering food and preparing our colonists for the upcoming winter.

What is your greatest regret?

 Forever crossing verbal swords with Chief Wanchese. He’s the first man who’s ever looked at me with desire, as a real flesh and blood woman. Alas, most of our conversations end with a disagreement.

What is the quality you most like in a man?

 Honesty and hard work

What is the quality you most like in a woman?

 Honesty and hard work

Who is your favorite hero in fiction?

 Dante in The Divine Comedy. I’m not exactly the religious sort, but I admire his sense of justice – the idea that every man will get what he deserves in the end.

Which living person do you most admire?

My dearest and most loyal friends, Rose Payne and Agnes Wood.  They are the first and only women in my life willing to accept me just as I am – scuffed boots, knives, and all – and I love them for it.

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

 I wish I wasn’t so short of temper. “Tis something I am working on. Then again, the good Lord simply didn’t give me the angelic demeanor he handed Rose and Agnes.

What is your motto?

 Right now, my life motto is simple: Adapt and survive. My fellow colonists and I didn’t ask to be marooned on an island crawling with hostiles. Nor did we ask to be ambushed on our first attempt to escape. I’m one of the lucky ones who lived to see another day. That has to count for something, right? One thing’s for sure. I’m not going down without a fight.

 

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Jo is a mega reader of all genres and loves to indulge in marathon showings of Big Bang Theory, NCIS, and Castle. Her favorite books are rich in Colonial and Elizabethan history, romance, strong women, alpha males, Native Americans, and creatures from the paranormal - an occasional dragon, vampire, or time traveler.

From St. Louis, Missouri, Jo moves a lot with her soldier husband. She has lived in the Midwest, the deep South, and now resides in Bavaria. Jo holds an M.B.A. and has served as a banker, college finance instructor, and high school business teacher. She is a member of Romance Writers of America, From the Heart Romance Writers RWA Chapter, and the Writers Group of Ansbach/Katterbach/Illesheim.

Website: www.JoGrafford.com

FB: https://www.facebook.com/JoGraffordAuthor

Twitter: @jografford

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7360736.Jo_Grafford

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/+JoGrafford

YouTube Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/nBB8_qcG-9I

Highlighted Author: www.HighlightedAuthor.com

Amazon.com Author Page: www.amazon.com/author/jografford

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/JoGrafford/

Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Blood Diva by @VM_Gauthier

 

 

Blood Diva

VM Gautier

Genre: Urban Fantasy

ISBN: 9781620154663

Number of pages: approx 450.

Word Count: 120,000

Book Description:

The 19th century's most infamous party-girl is undead and on the loose in the Big Apple.

When 23 year-old Parisian courtesan, Marie Duplessis succumbed to consumption in 1847, Charles Dickens showed up for the funeral and reported the city mourned as though Joan of Arc had fallen. Marie was not only a celebrity in in her own right, but her list of lovers included Franz Liszt – the first international music superstar, and Alexandre Dumas fils, son of the creator of The Three Musketeers. Dumas fils wrote the novel The Lady of the Camellias based on their time together. The book became a play, and the play became the opera La Traviata. Later came the film versions, and the legend never died.

But what if when offered the chance for eternal life and youth, Marie grabbed it, even when the price was the regular death of mortals at her lovely hand?

In 2014, Marie wonders if perhaps nearly two centuries of murder, mayhem, and debauchery is enough, especially when she falls hard for a rising star she believes may be the reincarnation of the only man she ever truly loved. But is it too late for her to change? Can a soul be redeemed like a diamond necklace in hock? And even if it can, have men evolved since the 1800′s? Or does a girl’s past still mark her?

Blood Diva is a sometimes humorous, often dark and erotic look at sex, celebrity, love, death, destiny, and the arts of both self-invention and seduction. It’s a story that asks a simple question – Can a one hundred ninety year-old demimondaine find happiness in 21st century Brooklyn without regular infusions of fresh blood?

Her bathroom was en-suite, but could be accessed through a second door from the living room. Rosa, who came in the mornings to clean, routinely filled the bath. There was a timed heater that kept the water warm. Alphonsine slipped into the oversized tub.

She dove under the bubbles. While her kind needed to breathe, they could control respiration and stay under for hours. She enjoyed soaking this way in very hot water, allowing herself to think and dream. Her morning kill had been so unusual, so exciting, she wanted to relive every detail.

She hadn’t been planning to feed that night, though it had been almost four weeks. She could go five, even six in a pinch, but after that long she felt so fatigued it was hard to distinguish day from night. Pierre and she were planning to get out of town to feast together. He often chided her for her recklessness, pointing out it was not like the old days. Trains, planes, and automobiles made it easy to place distance between oneself and one’s prey. No reason to kill where one lived, but sometimes, one couldn’t help oneself.

She had left the party feeling a particular restlessness. At first believing sex alone might be enough to stave off the hunger, her plan had been to head downtown or back to Brooklyn to find some pretty thing to hook up with. Then she caught a scent, felt something unique was waiting. Violent images flooded her mind as she entered the bar. It was coming into focus – a mortal who killed, not in war, but for fun. While her telepathic powers were weak – she was after all still quite young, she could sense emotions, especially strong ones, and he had been a seething caldron of barely suppressed rage.

Under the warm water, she could still taste it on her tongue, his blood, his essence – all of that delicious hate, and yet in the intimacy of the death-grip, she felt more, his humanity, as though they both were spiraling backwards in time to a moment when even he was innocent.

She’d given him peace. It had been a good death for him. True, she had frightened him when she jumped out. They said in the best hunts the prey never suspected, never felt a moment of unease, but allowances had to be made. After all, he believed he had killed her. She couldn’t let him go to his grave thinking that.

Blood was more than nourishment. It was a sacrament. Some said the blood itself contained the very soul. She doubted such a thing existed. She only knew it had something – a power, a magic like nothing else. Strange how easily satisfied beings like her were, hardly the monsters depicted in myth. As pleasurable as it might be to hunt and feast every night, like the noble lion, they only did so when hungry.

No two people tasted the same – not father and son, nor brother and sister, not even twins. This she knew from her own experience. Children’s blood had a sweetness like the candied grapes young men once brought her as tokens between acts at the opera. There was a freshness to young blood, like apples picked in the summer at a perfect moment of ripeness. Teenaged girls tasted of secrets, and boys of lust. Women, pretty ones, whose hearts had been broken had a certain tenderness and resignation, especially if you came to them when their looks were fading, and there wasn’t much hope. There were men who had an edge like a wine with a bitter after taste, while others were warm and smooth. The old, whom she wasn’t fond of, tasted of sadness, disappointment, and defeat, though they would certainly do when convenient. Human blood, like the human voice, had different timbres. Some had the richness and depth of a bass-baritone while others were light but agile like a coloratura soprano.

A killer, however, especially one who dispatched his own so remorselessly, this was a rare treat indeed. The essence would hold within it all whom he had taken. For her to act so boldly, to take so many chances to have him, was a risk, but what would be the point of immortality without gambles? And she had always loved games of chance.

When she walked in and saw him, saw those thick arms, the sandy hair, could already feel what it would be like to fuck him, to take him perhaps when he was inside her, she knew she had to go through with it. The combination of lust and hunger made her almost giddy, barely able to contain herself.

Still immersed, Alphonsine began to touch her thighs, working up to her pussy, replaying the night.

As soon as she sat down at the bar it became clear he had picked her, imagined her as his next victim. It was too delicious! A chance for play-acting. Something different and rough.

Alphonsine lifted her head above the water, feeling the urge to breathe. Her breaths became quick as she felt her release, the first taste of his blood a vivid memory. Her kind not only felt everything more strongly than mortals, but could recall in full sensory detail.

It had been everything she hoped. Feeling him draining, feeling his life force leaving his body, merging into hers. That final beat of his cruel heart. A rush of something – all his anger, perhaps? It overwhelmed her for a second and then was gone. And he had looked so tranquil – transformed by death – beyond the desire to hurt and kill, beyond it all, finally at rest – a gift she had bestowed on him.

She had closed his eyes, and kissed him once softly on the lips before beginning the task of clean up.

The act of remembering left her not hungry for more blood, but still unsatisfied.

 

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

I wanted to be EVERYTHING. But I always made up stories and writing came naturally.

When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?

Probably when I was eight and my second grade teacher accused me of plagiarizing a poem because she thought it was too good. My dad basically told her I was born writer and she needed to deal with it.

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

I've had more distinct careers than anyone I know. Honestly, my resume is human resources disaster. Most jobs have involved writing in some way. Certainly, being able to tell a story has made it easier for me to get hired, again and again and again. I'm serious about this. Parents worry about their kids majoring in or getting graduate degrees in creative writing, and it's true that most people who do that won't make a living as a fiction writer, but knowing how to create a narrative and string words together is important in so many fields, and it's often essential in getting through the door.

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

 Title: Blood Diva. Pitch:  19th century Paris' hottest party-girl is undead and living it up in the Big Apple.

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

 Blood Diva is self-published. For anyone interested in that process, I've created a blog (http://www.blooddiva.com) detailing my publishing journey.

 

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

 Blood Diva is over 120,000 words and took around a year and half from concept to publication. If I had attempted to go the traditional route, I'm sure I'd still be looking for an agent.

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

 More books for sure, but I don't know about the genre. This was my first novel dealing with the undead.  The book was written to be enjoyed as a stand-alone, but if it catches on, I have some ideas. A couple of people have already written begging for a sequel.

What genre would you place your books into?

 I'd describe Blood Diva as genre-fluid.  By definition it's  "urban fantasy" -- that is, it takes place mostly in a city and their are vampires. Obviously, there's a strong paranormal element. There's some erotica. There is a romance that acts as a catalyst for the heroine, but genre-wise it's not really a romance either. It's like a sexed-up Anne Rice on drugs.

What made you decide to write that genre of book?

 My other work is more literary, but I read almost everything. I wanted to let loose and have fun, maybe even reach a wider audience. I've long been fascinated with Marie Duplessis -- who was the real person on whom I modeled my heroine. She has lived on long after her death as a legend, so turning her into a vampire seemed like a natural step. I loved the idea of allowing her as an immortal to ponder her own myth.

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

 At the moment, the protagonist of Blood Diva, Marie Duplessis, aka Alphonsine, aka Camille St. Valois, is my favorite. I still haven't disengaged from her.  She's a cold-blooded predator, but there's vulnerability as well. Once you get her whole story, you have to sympathize. Besides, vampires are total psychopaths and that can be very appealing. Who wouldn't want to live without a conscience at least for a little while?

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

 I've always loved reading and really getting lost in stories. I think books just hit your brain in a way that's different from movies, television, or even music. The characters move into your head. Reading is a great way to travel through time and space. Creating stories is my drug. I used to get anxious about writing, but now it's the best cure for my nerves.  I think self-publishing helps -- knowing I will be able to find an audience, that no official-type is going to stop me.

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

 I really need a keyboard. I hate writing in long-hand. If I can, I prefer an airy-room, by a window, and I like having my feet up. The music may vary depending on what I'm writing, and sometimes any music is too distracting. While writing Blood Diva, I listened to the opera La Traviata A LOT. The story is based on Marie Duplessis' life, and the music captured her spirit.

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

 It's very hard NOT to read reviews. It's heartening when someone really "gets" it.  It feels awful when they don't.  I don't engage with negative reviewers. That doesn't mean I agree with them.

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

 In the case of Blood Diva, the title came to me pretty early on. The word "diva" is often used in connection with opera, and the main character is connected with opera (having inspired one). Adding the word "blood" in front of "diva" was a natural. The character is a vampire, and sucking the life out of mortals isn't just something she does, it's her art.

What I didn't realize was that there was a Japanese vampire anime series called Blood+ with a character named Diva, and also a product made for holding menstrual blood named a "diva cup." I found all that out when I first started to google my title! By then it was too late.

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

 Some of the characters were based on historical figures, so that was easy. Others just came to me.  I don't think I have a particular talent for naming characters. I can't think of many contemporary authors who do. Dickens was great at it. I'm no Dickens.

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

You have to call your characters something when you start writing them, but I have sometimes changed character names for various reasons. Initially, my heroine's love interest was named Damon. Honestly, I'd never watched The Vampire Diaries. Then I realized it would be impossible for readers to see the name Damon and NOT immediately picture Ian Sommerhalder as Damon Salvatore. I changed it to Dashiell. The character's father is a writer, and probably the type who would have named his son after the writer Dashiell Hammett, so it made sense.

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

 I had a sense of the main character's traits, as she was not only based on a real person, but on a person who has been portrayed fictitiously in movies and on stage. I knew she'd have a great sense of humor and irony. She'd be impetuous, but sometimes guarded, especially about her true feelings. There had to be vulnerability as well. Without that, readers would just be turned off.  Other characters developed more as I went along.

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

As a writer, I'm thrilled to have readers discover my work in any format.

As a reader, I will always love print. Print books use a lot of different fonts and formats. They feel very individualized. I love that they are solid three dimensional objects that can be borrowed or given away, that they can be personalized with notes and messages. (I know you can "highlight" or write a note in an ebook, but it's not the same.) I love actually being inside a brick and mortar bookstore and discovering bargains (including used books), finding authors I've never heard of before, asking clerks for recommendations, talking to strangers about great reads. I find paperbacks even more attractive than hardcovers. Usually, hardcovers have a paper cover that slips off or can easily get torn. Beneath that, the covers are pretty generic. With a paperback, the unique cover is part of the book itself.

On the other hand, ebooks are easier for traveling. You can take a whole library with you wherever you go. You can download all kinds of public domain classics for free. If you decide you MUST read something that instant, you can download it anytime, anywhere. That's pretty amazing! 

I don't think this is like digital music. I truly believe we will always have print, but we may think of print differently -- maybe save it for the books we love most. We might do most of our reading digitally, but still give print books as gifts, or display our favorites on real shelves in our homes.

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

 I like complex big books. I'd rather not pick just one. I enjoy all sorts of genres and go through a lot of reading phases.

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

 You have to accept that film is more visual and movies need to be different than the books on which they are based. You have to accept that the actors playing the parts might not be the ones playing the part in your mind. Some books seem to be written for the screen and transfer really well. I thought they did a very good job with both the Swedish version and the American remake of The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo. I'm still waiting for the sequels! Classic worst -- Queen of the Damned.

Your favorite food is?

Dark chocolate.

Your favorite singer/group is?

 Gotta go with opera here, not pop. Natalie Dessay is spectacular.

Your favorite color is?

 Red, like blood.

 

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VM Gautier is a pseudonym. This is not the author's first book, but it is his or her first book in this genre. You haven't heard of him or her.

Web: http://www.blooddiva.com

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22731729-blood-diva

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Blood-Diva/1478472872374508

Twitter: https://twitter.com/VM_Gauthier