Karen Swart's Blog, page 52
August 11, 2014
Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: It’s Not My Favorite by @ItsNotMyFavorit
Presented by:
For Hot Book News join our mailing list - http://eepurl.com/ZnJir
Title: It’s Not My Favorite Series: The Lake Effect Series # 1
Author: Rue
Audience: NA and Adult
Genre: Contemporary, Chick Lit, Lesbian
Formats: E-book and Paperback
Publisher: Sittin’ On A Goldmine Publications LLC
Cover by: Rue and Anne French
Editor: M. Scott Gilbert; Kathy Gorchesky
Pages: 312 pages
ISBN: 0986062766
ASIN: B00KMHFW04
Date Published: April 21, 2014
The Hutchinson sisters grew up under the piercing, pious stare of a preacher’s wife. Plagued by her ever-disappointed refrain, “Well, it’s not my favorite.” Their search to find their own way in the world has not been a screaming success. Gwenn is a good girl, a responsible girl…a miserable girl. Her steady diet of vivid fantasies is the only part of her life she enjoys. She daydreams of new parents, a more exciting job and an actual love life. She struggles to run a business as The Organizer, while she stacks relationship carcasses in the closet of her own completely unorganized life. Her only real friend is her younger sister, Rachel.
Rachel is outgoing, risqué and happily gay. The only people who don’t know this little secret are her judgmental parents, Pastor Ed and Shirley. Rachel struggles mightily to dodge her mother’s constant attempts to set her up with “nice Christian boys”; while holding down a job at the bakery and keeping up with her rock-star girlfriend!
Gwenn uncovers a photo that brings her imaginary world careening into reality. She’s forced to ask herself if wealthy artist, Daniel Gregory is the answer she’s been seeking or a grand delusion.
Break-ups, meltdowns, family secrets, wild nights and finally a journey of self-discovery to exotic New Zealand keep Gwenn and Rachel stumbling toward independence.
So grab your parka and join the Hutchinson girls, as they experience the Lake Effect in Duluth, Minnesota!
Amazon / Goodreads / Barnes and Noble
“Why Jeff, I had no idea you were a necromancer.” Gwenn saw the confusion cloud Jeff’s face. “Sorry, bad joke. She’s a ghost. I mean literally, sheet with holes, etc. Good luck finding her.” Gwen pretended to see someone in the crowd and smiled at Jeff as she rushed away. She turned the corner just in time to see Rachel climbing up on the buffet. “Oh, you gotta be frickin’ kidding me.” Gwenn made it to the bathroom before Rachel hit the chorus of Let’s Go Crazy. Hiding in the bathroom, Gwenn remembered a far more embarrassing Halloween. She was barely ten and had just started fifth grade at a new school, several weeks late in keeping with the Hutchinson family annual relocation tradition.
“Hi, I’m Gwenn.” No one at the lunch table acknowledged her existence. “Um, sorry, I didn’t want to bug you. I was just wondering if any of you wanted to come to my big Halloween party?” Gwenn smoothly lied.
All heads turned.
“Cool!” Came from several directions.
“Yeah, totally,” chimed in a few guys.
“Awesome. What’s your costume, Jen?” Sarah Beth asked.
“Oh, it’s Gwenn, and my costume is Catwoman.” Gwenn embellished.
“Wow. My mom is making me dress like Alice in Wonderland. I can’t wait to come to your party.” Sarah Beth made room for Gwenn at the table, “Here, sit by me.”
Gwenn had rushed home, filled with the excitement of acceptance—finally.
“Hey Trixie, yer home early.” Pastor Ed patted Gwenn patronizingly on the head. “Take a seat in the living room. We are havin’ a family meeting.”
Gwenn felt her stomach churn. Oh crap they were moving again. She just made an actual friend. Why were Ed and Shirley so dead set against her having friends?
“Hi Gwenny!” Rachel beamed.
“Shut up, twerp.” Gwenn stuck her tongue out at Rachel.
Shirley took the reins, ”Girls the Lord has spoken to us and He has shown us that Halloween is Satan’s night. As good Christians we cannot sin against the Lord by paying tribute to the Devil.” She closed her eyes and folded her hands in prayer.
“What’d that mean mommy?” Rachel innocently asked.
“Halloween’s canceled idiot! No costumes. No candy.” Gwenn stormed out of the room.
Big wet tears rolled down Rachel’s chubby cheeks. “No candy!” She wailed.
But the torment was much greater for Gwenn.
Ed and Shirley didn’t have the decency to cancel Halloween at the Hutchinson house. Instead, they carved up some pumpkins and turned on the porch lights to lure the unsuspecting children. Gwenn hid on the stairs and watched through the banister as innocent trick-or-treaters came to the door and Shirley shoved little orange tracts in their treat bags and told them Jesus died for their sins.
Sarah Beth did not make room for Gwenn—ever again.
That’s when the emotional deformities started. The inability to trust completely, the gnawing nameless guilt and finally that unsettling feeling that someone was judging her every action—and Gwenn always came up short.
She kept telling herself it would change, that someday she would find the key that would unlock the door to her invisible prison and she would be free.
Gwenn jumped when the music stopped. She wiped an unexplained tear from her cheek, exhaled the yuck and marched out of the bathroom.
The party was winding down and Rachel had crossed the line between life of the party and annoying drunk; landing clumsily on the pain-in–the-ass side of that line. Gwenn shepherded her sister through the maze of glass and steel skyway corridors connecting the buildings of Duluth’s downtown.
They emerged into the bitter cold wind knifing across the harbor and Gwenn tried to hurry the procession to her car. Rachel was already quite numb from the alcohol, so the cold had little effect.
“Rache, come on. I’m freezing. I’ll take you back to my place.”
“No…home,” slurred Rachel, insistently.
“But…”
“Gotta work…”
“You have to open the bakery tomorrow? Rache, how the hell are you gonna—”
“No worries, mate,” Rachel spouted off in her best Australian accent.
“Oh, crikey!” Gwenn was keenly aware that in the order of Rachel’s sorrow-drowning inebriation, accents preceded vomiting and passing out was just around the corner.
“Fine. I’ll take you home, but you have to hurry.” Gwenn steered zig-zaggy Rachel to the Jeep and fishtailed out of the icy parking lot in a hasty attempt to arrive at Rachel’s loft before phase vomit emerged.
Gwenn beat the odds and managed to get Rachel into her own bed without further incident. She removed the alcohol-stained costume and placed it on Rachel’s dry cleaning pile. Gwenn kissed her sister on the forehead, tucked the comforter under Rachel’s chin and quietly flicked off the light as she left the loft.
Somewhere Over The Rainbow – Jewel Version Let’s Go Crazy – Prince Crazy For You – Madonna Kiss Me – Ed Sheeran Unwritten – Natasha Bedingfield Don’t Speak – No Doubt Wicked Game – Chris Isaak Say Something – A Great Big World Titanium – Jasmine Thompson Version A Sky Full Of Stars – Coldplay It’s Raining Men – The Weather Girls Ain’t No Rest For The Wicked – Cage The Elephant
Ain’t No Rest For The Wicked – Cage The Elephant Pompeii – Bastille Nothing More – Alternative What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger – Kelly Clarkson Brave – Sara Bareilles
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
I always wanted to be a writer. I am a fairly introverted person and I always found it easier to express myself through writing.
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
I think I officially considered myself a writer in college. When I saw my first article published in the university paper—it felt “real.”
How long did it take to get your first book published?
Years! J
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
Writing is my full-time gig. However, I am a freelance producer. So I take on film, television or advertising projects if I can fit them into my schedule.
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
“It’s Not My Favorite” An irreverent, modern-day, romantic comedy.
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
I chose to set up my own publishing company. I think the market is changing and I like most of the benefits of self-publishing.
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
I work on a plan of completing a full-length novel every six months – at least that is the schedule I strive to keep!
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
Readers can expect more of the same genre AND books from a new genre. There are two more books in the Lake Effect Series and I have two YA books and a children’s book on the schedule, as well.
What genre would you place your books into?
The genre that I wish existed, officially, is romantic comedy. It exists in the movie business but not in publishing. Some sites add it – but it is not an official category.
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
I love humor and I think a lot of people use humor in their daily lives (to make friends, to cope with stress and sometimes to keep people at a distance). My novels will always contain humor.
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?
I just love Todd! He isn’t a main character but he gets to say some of the most fun things. I get a kick out of the way he interacts with people.
How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?
I have been writing since I was three. Yes I am a freak. I think Mr. Rogers inspired me to write. I loved make-believe and wanted it to continue after his show ended.
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
The answer is YES, I have OCD. J
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
I do read reviews. Maybe I will stop at some point, but reader feedback is important to me. If the story the characters are telling in my head is not getting translated to the page—I want to know.
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?
I have actually found that the title I choose before I start writing never makes it to the end of writing the book. The title emerges as the subtle pieces of the story come together.
How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?
Character’s manifest in my head with names attached. Place names are usually an amalgam of places I’ve been or read about.
Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?
Same answer as previous question J
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
Again, characters come to me as “real” people, complete with traits. However, as the story unfolds I discover more about them and their likes/dislikes, secrets, etc.
Are there any hidden messages or morals contained in your books? (Morals as in like Aesops Fables type of "The moral of this story is..")
Not intentionally, but I wouldn’t mind if people pick up on the “Hey we’re all human. Love is a soul level thing – not limited by gender.” Vibe.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
Six months ago I would’ve sworn that I had to hold paper pages to feel like a satisfied reader. My recent experience with a Terri Osburn novel and my Kindle changed my opinion J when I got so engrossed I tried to physically flip the kindle over to reveal the next page…I was convinced. I love reading and I guess you can put anything with type in my hands—if it good—I will read!
What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once?
The Secret Garden is my favorite book. I love the magic of the hidden garden and I love character arcs. I have read it at least four times – I even forced my son to endure mommy reading it to him!
Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?
As a filmmaker I have to plead the fifth on this one.
Your favorite food is?
Potatoes of any kind – French fries, home fries, mashed, scalloped…I could go on. Seriously, I could.
Your favorite singer/group is?
I love the way a song makes me feel and I rarely pay attention to the singers/bands. I know that is weird and I am in a twelve-step program J So I listen to everything from Immortal Technique to Mozart…when the mood strikes. (Even Country – don’t tell!)
Your favorite color is?
ALL. It is totally a mood thing – one day I could be in love with a purple shirt, and the next day you couldn’t pay me to wear it. Packing for trips is a bitch!
Your favorite Author is?
Depends on the genre—I have many favorites. But, if you put a Marian Keyes book in front of me I wouldn’t be mad about that.
5 X Autographed Books W/Bookmarks (USA Only) Minor Character Named After Winner In Book 2. a Rafflecopter giveaway
Rue graduated from Pepperdine University in Southern California with a degree in Journalism. Her intimate knowledge of the Midwestern United States, the inordinate amount of time she spent in its churches’ pews and her unique parentage make her an expert on life after religion. Having moved 17 times by the time she graduated from high school Rue has seen more than her share of the Great Plains. She never stayed in one place long enough to make human friends. Her best friends were all characters from her beloved books; and the love of reading led to a lifelong passion for writing.
Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Amazon / Pinterest
Tour Schedule - Two Week Blog Tour for It’s Not My Favorite by Author Rue from Aug 3 to 16, 2014 Aug 3
Coffee Books & Art - Promo, Author Interview, Guest Post, Top Ten & Book Soundtrack
http://sarityahalomi.blogspot.com/
TTC Books And More - Promo & Book Soundtrack
http://www.ttcbooksandmore.com
Aug 4
A One-click Addict's Book Blog - Review
http://aone-clickaddictsbookblog.blogspot.com/
Bajgajka Loves Books And Giveaways - Promo, Dream Cast, Character Bio's, Book Soundtrack & Playlist
http://bajgajka.blogspot.com
Aug 5
Deal Sharing Aunt - Promo
http://www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com
Booky Ramblings of a Neurotic Mom - Promo & Top Ten
http://bookyramblingsofaneuroticmom.blogspot.co.uk/
Aug 6
Breny's Book Obsession - Promo & Dream Cast
http://brenysbookobsession.blogspot.com/
Pretty Little Pages - Review
http://prettylittlepages.blogspot.com
G The Book Diva Blog - Promo
http:/www.gthebookdiva.com/
Aug 7
Sinful Reviews - Promo
http://www.sinfulreview.wordpress.com
Indy Book Fairy - Promo, Character Bio's & Book Soundtrack
http://paranormalbookfairy.blogspot.com/
Aug 8
Our New Generation for Reading - Promo
http://jessica13bridgers.blogspot.com/
Clarissa Wild's Blog - Promo, Character Bio's, Book Soundtrack & Playlist
http://clarissawild.blogspot.com
Aug 9
A Cauldron of Books - Promo, Dream Cast, Character Bio's, Book Soundtrack & Playlist
http://acauldronofbooks.info
Fiction Dreams - Promo & Author Interview
http://www.fictiondreams.com
Aug 10
Angels with Attitude Book Reviews - Promo, Author Interview, Book Soundtrack & Playlist
http://angelswithattitudebookreviews-joelle.blogspot.com
Eclipse Reviews - Promo, Character Interview, Dream Cast, Character Bio's, Book Soundtrack & Playlist
http://www.eclipsereviews.weebly.com
Aug 11
The Avid Reader - Promo, Author Interview, Dream Cast, Character Bio's, & Book Soundtrack, Playlist
http://the-avidreader.blogspot.com
Portals to New Worlds - Promo, Author Interview, Dream Cast, Character Bio's, Book Soundtrack & Playlist
http://authorkarenswart.blogspot.com
Aug 12
Sassy Southern Book Blog - Promo & Review
http://sassysouthernbookblog.blogspot.com/
Darkest Cravings - Promo, Top Ten, Dream Cast, Character Bio's, Book Soundtrack & Playlist
http://www.darkestcravings.weebly.com
Aug 13
The Idle Musings of a Writer's Mind - Promo
http://theidlemusingsofawritersmind.blogspot.com
Aug 14
Night Owl Reviews - Promo
http://www.nightowlreviews.com/V5/Blog
Aug 15
The Phantom Paragrapher - Promo
http://www.thephantomparagrapher.blogspot.com
Aug 16
For The Love Of Books - Promo & Review
http://ftlobblog.blogspot.com/
Dalene's Book Reviews - Promo, Review, Playlist, Book Soundtrack & Character Bio's
http://dalenesbookreviews.blogspot.com
Books, Brownies and Barkers - Review
http://booksnbrownies.com
August 10, 2014
Cover Reveal: 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!
The House | Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter
a Rafflecopter giveaway [image error]
♦Visit all the sites participating in the reveal♦ http://www.nisabelleblanco.com
http://wickedreadingsbytawania.blogspot.com
http://www.thepageprincess.com
https://michbookreviews.wordpress.com
http://arisqueaffairbookblog.blogspot.com/
http://fictionalrendezvousbookblog.blogspot.com/
http://cheekypeereadsandreviews.blogspot.co.uk/
http://www.boundbybooksbookreview.com
http://bookreviewsbylynn.blogspot.co.uk/
http://www.realtalkbooktalk.blogspot.com
http://www.mommyslatenightbookup.blogspot.com
http://divasdiscussions.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/bookhappiness
http://authorhazelrobinson.blogspot.co.uk/
http://lifebooksandmore.blogspot.com
http://www.dauntlessindies.blogspot.com
http://www.bookboyfriendreview.blogspot.com
http://fictionalrendezvousbookblog.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Naughty-Smutty-Book-Blog/686664438030326
http://www.pinkypollock.blogspot.com
http://www.krisandvikbooktherapycafe.com
http://amazeballsbookaddicts.blogspot.com/
http://forevermeromance.blogspot.com
https://facebook.com/madlovebookblog
http://kumikoleilostinabook.blogspot.com/
http://www.mixdsignals.weebly.com
http://www.asliceoffiction.com
http://justonemorepage5.wordpress.com/
http://www.chaosmusings.tumblr.com
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kitty-Kats-Crazy-About-Books/175744712617653?ref=hl
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Panty-dropping-Book-Blog/295274823946802
https://www.facebook.com/relentlessbookchic
http://westoleyourbookboyfriend.weebly.com/
http://scandalousbookblog.blogspot.be/
http://beaniebrainreader.blogspot.com/
http://darkestcravings.blogspot.com
http://authorkarenswart.blogspot.com
http://kandesbookblog.blogspot.com
http://www.thephantomparagrapher.blogspot.com/
http://www.sookie72.wordpress.com
http://flirtynvicious.tumblr.com
http://authorsandralove.blogspot.com/
http://aone-clickaddictsbookblog.blogspot.com/
http://www.luciigrubb.blogspot.co.uk/
http://www.mineofbooks.blogspot.com
https://www.facebook.com/AngiePimpsBooks
http://beverlyovalleromance.blogspot.com/
Series Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Keeper Witches by @KrissyGirl122
Presented by:
Join our mailing list and stand a chance to win one of three Amazon GC - http://eepurl.com/ZnJir
Title: Keeper of the Innocents Series: Keeper Witches, #2
Author: Kristy Centeno
Audience: Young Adult
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Formats: E-book and Paperback
Publisher: Limitless Publishing
Cover by: Robin at Wicked by Design
Pages: 276 pages
ASIN: B00LLIPUC8
Date Published: July 8, 2014
Demi Redding has used her powers to vanquish demons for years, but when one shows up next door she will be forced to set both her experience and instincts aside to battle a war that has nothing to do with magic, and everything to do with matters of the heart. As a Keeper of the Innocents, Demi’s load as a guardian reduces with only one charge to take on at a time. However, when her new foe proves to be a force she can neither see nor find, she has no choice but to doubt the so-called good intentions of the stranger one door down.
Rhyzel Connor is not your average neighbor by any means. The red specks of color in his green eyes alone sets him apart and his demonic heritage makes him an easy target. Because of who he is he can’t afford a mistake that will result in his demise, but the fact that he knows way too much about Demi quickly raises the suspicion veil over him.
There is a mission he must complete, and secrets he must fight hard to keep, but the biggest hardship he must face will be forfeiting his life in order to save Demi’s.
Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Kobo
Everything happened so fast I couldn’t even react. Stunned, I just stood there for a moment trying to size up my attacker. Before I even glanced up to look at his face I could tell something was off with him, but because of my nervousness, it was hard to tell for sure. He’d come out of nowhere, and if he intended to kill me, I was easy prey. “What the hell do you think you’re doing?” a deeply masculine voice growled at me. Fortunately, that same voice helped break me out of my stupor. I was prepared to see some form of evil glaring down at me, but what I found when I glanced up was definitely not what I was expecting. The handsome stranger staring at me was hot. Not just your average Joe kind of hot. No. This was like the kind of hot that makes a girl want to sin in ways she’d never done before.
His pale skin, tousled, bronze colored hair, and full lips were striking to look at, but his eyes left me completely speechless.
Perfectly round green eyes stared back at me and though they were gorgeous all on their own, it was the few specks of red in his irises that I found beautiful and so unusual. I was left with my mouth hanging open. I’d never seen eyes that color before and no matter how many times my brain yelled at me to look away, I just couldn’t. I was drawn to him. To his unique eyes. To the mystery that shrouded him.
Youtube
Title: Keeper of the Lost Souls
Series: Keeper Witches, #1
Pages: 380 pages
ASIN: B00D9GGNNK
Date Published: 7 June 2013
Bryn McCaskey is young, naïve, and can talk to ghosts...
Like her mother and grandmother, Bryn comes from a breed of witches called The Keepers of the Lost Souls. Their main purpose is to guard those spirits who are permanently or temporarily grounded in the world of the living. Handling supernatural creatures is something which comes naturally to Bryn, however, dealing with people is a whole different story.
As her 18th birthday approaches it's time for her to take on her first assignment. Bryn is forced to confront her inability to communicate with others in an effort to save the one soul that can mean the difference between life and death for mankind.
Johnny Shaw is a lost soul with a personal vendetta against witches...
A vendetta he has carried on even after death. As much as he hate's them he must join forces with a keeper witch, in order to stop a century old threat. When fate brings them together, not only will they be forced to learn how to work as a team, but they will have to depend on each other to stop an evil witch carrying a six hundred year grudge!
Amazon / Goodreads / Barnes and Noble / Kobo / Createspace / Bookdepository
Character Bio:
Character Name: Demi Redding
Witch Branch: Keeper
Main powers: Spell casting, seeing into the future.
Age: 18 years old
Flaws: Stubborn, suspicious, cockiness.
Strengths: Determination, confidence, fighter.
Personality:
Being able to step up as a Keeper is no problem at all for Demi, because she’s naturally obstinate. She seldom, if ever, doubts herself or her ability to make the right decisions. She fights for what she believes in; making it difficult for her to accept things that are any different from that which she has grown believing. She does, however, welcome challenges and opportunities to prove herself.
Describe yourself what is your worst and best quality?
Some would say I’m incredibly stubborn. I’m sure Rhyzel, would agree with that. I’m working really hard on changing that. I wouldn’t say I have been successful so far, but I’m not giving up just yet.
My best quality? Well, that’s a hard one. But if I have to pick one then I guess I’ll say…my sixth sense. Usually, when I feel something is not right, most of them I’m not wrong.
What is the one thing you wish other people knew about you?
There were times when I wished I could share my secret with my best friend, Mina, but saying I’m a witch isn’t like confessing to liking the boy next door. Some things are just not that easy. But if I could share that part of my life with her, without there being repercussions, I would.
What is your biggest secret something no one knows about?
I used my powers to cheat on a test. I’m not sure I should be admitting to that since, well, Mom doesn’t know, but it only happened one time. I swear.
What are you most afraid of?
Losing either my mom or my dad to a demon.
What do you want more than anything?
Some time to be a normal, teenage college girl.
What is your relationship status?
As of right now, Rhyzel and I are…beyond the friendship stage but not quite official either. I guess, with him being a demon and all, I’m trying to figure out if something between us is even possible.
How would you describe your sense of fashion?
I don’t think I have any. I keep comfort in mind when I dress. When I go on a date though, comfort might take a back seat—if I like the guy enough that is.
How much of a rebel are you?
I have to be perfectly honest here, I’m not a rebel. Sure, I go out and have fun every once in a while but as far as being rebellious…well, I’ve never had a need to be. I have fun when fun is due and take care of my responsibilities too. If I were a rebel, then I’d be a conscious one at best.
What do you considered to be your greatest achievement?
Passing my first test as a Keeper. It wasn’t the most pleasant experience but I saved an innocent life so I’m all up for that.
What is your idea of happiness?
Taking down as many demons as I can.
What is your current state of mind?
Starting college and taking care of a new charge really isn’t agreeing with me. I’m not kidding, that’s exactly what I was thinking just now. It’s funny how you think of the craziest of things when you’re bored—not that I’m bored with all these questions.
What is your most treasured possession?
My ring. It has been passed down from my grandmother to me, and I value it with my life. Without it, I’d be more vulnerable since I wouldn’t know when demons are nearby.
What is it that you, most dislike?
My response to this question might sound very incentive, considering I’m seeing a demon and all, but I have a dislike for demons. Not all of them, of course. Well, all but one.
Which living person do you, most despise?
I really don’t have any personal dislikes for anyone I know. That might change in the near future though.
What is your greatest regret?
Not trusting Rhyzel even though he was honest with me—most of the time anyway.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Sincerity. Honesty. Straight forwardness. In other words, you’re either honest with me from the get-go or you’re honest with me. There’s no other way around it.
Which living person do you most admire?
My mother. I have no idea how she managed to be a Keeper, mother, and wife without going crazy. I had one charge and one boy to worry about and it almost drove me nuts. She’s unbelievable. She managed to keep everything on track and never once lost a single charge. I hope to be as good one day as she is.
If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?
I really need to learn how to trust a little more.
What is your motto?
Beat them down first, ask questions later.
1 x Signed paperback copy of Keeper of the Innocents - USA Only 5 x E-Book copies of Keeper of the Lost Souls 5 x E -Book copies of Keeper of the Innocents a Rafflecopter giveaway
As a child, she used to lose herself in an imaginary world by the means of a good book. Now that she’s all grown up, Kristy gets to create her own fictional realms and make them come to life in ways that most readers might not expect. She’s always had a passion for writing but never had the opportunity do so until now. After trying out numerous options, she realized that writing was what she loved the most so when she found herself with some free time on her hands, she decided to pursue her passion. As it turned out, her very active imagination helped her achieve her goals of creating believable plots with some ordinary, and some not so ordinary characters that helped the stories move along in one way or another.
As she keeps moving along in achieving her dreams of becoming a published author, she divides her time in between her five children and her very understanding husband.
Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Amazon / Pinterest
Tour Schedule - One Week Blog Tour for The Keeper Witches Series by Kristy Centeno from Aug 8 to Aug 14, 2014 Aug 8 Coffee Books & Art - Promo & Guest Post http://sarityahalomi.blogspot.com/ G The Book Diva Blog - Promo http://www.gthebookdiva.com The Book Addict - Promo http://jbthebookadict.blogspot.com Crazy Beautiful Reviews - Promo http://www.crazybeautifulreviews.blogspot.com Agapa Reads - Promo, Review- Book 1 & Review - Book 2 http://www.agapareads.com A Little Bit of R&R - Promo http://alittlebitofrnr.com/ Aug 9 Rusty's Reading - Promo http://www.rustysreading.com Once Upon a YA Book - Promo & Guest Post http://onceuponayabook.blogspot.com Mrsleif's Two Fangs About It Book Reviews - Review- Book 1 http://mrsleifs.blogspot.com/ Bookworm for Kids - Promo http://www.bookwormforkids.blogspot.com Aug 10 For The Love Of Books - Promo http://ftlobblog.blogspot.com TTC Books And More - Promo http://www.ttcbooksandmore.com Fictional Rendezvous Book Blog - Promo http://fictionalrendezvousbookblog.blogspot.com/ Portals to New Worlds - Promo & Character Interview http://authorkarenswart.blogspot.com Aug 11 Cajun Book Lover - Promo http://www.cajunbooklover.blogspot.com Diane's Book Blog - Promo & Character Interview http://dianes-book.blogspot.com Books, Brownies and Barkers - Promo & Guest Post http://booksnbrownies.com Eclipse Reviews - Promo & Author Interview http://eclipsereviews.weebly.com Aug 12 iHeart Books by MiLo18 - Promo https://iHeartBooksbyMiLo18.blogspot.com MI Bookshelf - Promo http://mibookshelf.blogspot.com/ Deal Sharing Aunt - Promo http://www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com Aug 13 Blue Books and Butterflies - Promo & Author Interview http://bluebooksandbutterflies.blogspot.com/ 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy, Too! - Promo http://3partnersinshopping.blogspot.com Pretty Girls Read Books - Promo http://opinionatedperson.wordpress.com Aug 14 Sassy Southern Book Blog - Promo, Review- Book 1 & Review - Book 2 http://www.sassysouthernbookblog.com Dalene's Book Reviews - Promo, Review- Book 1 & Review - Book 2 http://dalenesbookreviews.blogspot.com/ Book Nook Nuts - Promo http://booknooknuts.blogspot.com/
Box Set Blast & Giveaway: @PandoraBoxSet20 just 99c for 20 novels!
Presented by:
For hot book news join our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/ZnJir
Title: PANDORA Audience: YA to Adult.
Genre: Paranormal
Formats: E-Book
Publisher: Rebecca Hamilton
Cover by: Rebecca Hamilton and Angela Fristoe
Pages: 750 pages
ASIN: B00M04OSAC
Date Published: August 5th, 2014.
*TWENTY COMPLETE FULL-LENGTH NOVELS AND NOVELLAS FOR $0.99! NO CLIFFHANGERS!* PANDORA, a best-selling boxed set of wicked paranormal reads, is brought to you by twenty exciting, best-selling, and award-winning authors! Do you dare open the box?
Whether you love paranormal in the form of romance, suspense, mystery, horror, or fantasy, this boxed set will have something to entice your preternatural sensibilities. Supernaturally thrilling and engaging, this boxed set has it all: ghosts, vampires, mind-readers, shape-shifters, demons, faeries, werewolves, and more.
For a limited, you can enjoy books from today's New York Times, USA Today, Amazon and Barnes & Noble bestselling authors and many more. We have everything from titles that are slated for the big screen to stories from Pulitzer Prize and Bram Stoker Award Nominees! When purchased separately, these books cost over $50! But they are yours today for less than $1.
Professionally formatted, no cliffhangers, and no short stories. Every selection in this rare, limited edition paranormal boxed set are full-length novels and novellas! A few are "First in Series," but we carefully selected only those which can still be enjoyed as a standalone!
Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Goodreads
Follow on Twitter: @PandoraBoxSet20 Join The Facebook Party
Riley J Ford, New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author INTO YOU What if you could know exactly what your friends are thinking? High school student Winter Reynolds can, but there's a catch... She can only read people's thoughts when she's kissing them. Rebecca Hamilton, Amazon Best-Selling and Film-Optioned Novelist HER SWEETEST DOWNFALL Ophelia's initiation into the supernatural council won't be complete until she kills the man she loves. Apryl Baker, Amazon Best-Selling and Film-Optioned Novelist THE AWAKENING Snap...crackle...pop. The sounds of bones breaking and shifting and of muscles tearing haunt Alexandria Reed. Aided by her new friends, who have some dark secrets themselves, can she and Jason survive long enough to figure out the secret behind the secret? Carole Lanham, Amazon Best-Selling Author and Bram Stoker Award Nominee CLEOPATRA'S NEEDLE "There are monsters in this world, I’ve learned, and sometimes I have fallen victim to them and sometimes I have been one." A story of Welsh witchcraft, love, and murder. Thomas Sullivan, Pulitzer Prize Nominee THE WATER WOLF A global quest by a cynical adventurer searching for links in a colossal subterranean network he has stumbled upon lead him from the ancient fortress at Cuzco, Peru, to the Pyramids of Giza to a dangerous churchyard in Connemara, Ireland, where he falls in love with a woman of more than mortal roots and encounters the strange magic of a small village. Rainy Kaye, Amazon Best-Selling Author SUMMONED A dark twist on genie folklore, SUMMONED follows a reluctant criminal as he unravels the mystery of the paranormal bond controlling him. Laura Howard, Amazon Best-Selling Author THE FORGOTTEN ONES Truths have a way of revealing themselves. Secrets will eventually surface. And Allison must learn to set aside her plan and work with her father if there is even a small chance it could restore her mother's sanity. Noree Cosper, B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree A PRESCRIPTION FOR DELIRIUM Demons, werewolves, possessed bikers, madness spreading like a virus, and a revenge that has waited for over five-hundred years. What more could Gabby look for in a vacation spot? Louise Caiola, Amazon Best-Selling Author WHAT TRULY KNOWS She was born with the Magical Knowing – a gift, some said. A curse, said others. But for Truly, it was the very thing meant to save her life. If it didn’t kill her first. Kelley Anne Blount, Amazon Best-Selling Author SHADE Coming Soon! Susan Stec, Amazon Best-Selling Author DEAD GIRLS NEVER SHUT UP Toni's grandmother is a psychopath. Her sister is a ghost. Her boyfriend is possessed. And she has no idea who she is. Christi Goddard, Amazon Best-Selling Author FOUR IN THE MORNING When a smart-ass magical creature invades Kathleen’s life, a boy she hates turns up dead and her mother goes missing. Steven Katriel, Amazon Best-Selling Author THE PORTRAIT OF ALATIEL SALAZAR When Gabriel Holland’s beloved Helena vanishes from his life, he journeys to the home of disgraced artist Cristian Salazar, the man he holds responsible for her disappearance and the death of several friends. Heather Kenealy, winner of MTV's "Stan Lee presents the Seekers" contest and Cinescape's Short Story Contest THE TRAITORS' TRILOGY Betrayal comes with a price. For these betrayers, it also comes with an opportunity. Peter Dawes, Blogger Book Fair Reader's Choice Award winner EYES OF THE SEER It all started with a murder, but what laid in wait would turn a man into a monster. DelSheree Gladden, Amazon Best-Selling Author INVISIBLE Being invisible won’t hide Mason for long. with... Angela Fristoe LIE TO ME As a Truth Teller, Phoebe knows a lie when she hears it. Knowing what to do when her best friend lies is the problem, because in lies, intention is everything. Conner Kressley THE BREAKER'S CODE Cresta's the kind of girl who thinks everything is the end of the world. Turns out, she might be right. Samantha LaFantasie MADE TO FORGET After waking up in a hospital with no memory, Elsabetha quickly learns those who claim to be her friend are anything but. Rachel Walter TRUE CONNECTION With the help of supernatural friends and protectors, Jazzy thinks she's safe until what remains of her family is put in danger. Does she have what it takes to save her family, life, soul, and soul mate, or will all be lost? Save over $50! This set is only available for a limited time, so order your copy before it's gone!
1 x E-Copy of INTO YOU by Riley J Ford 1 x E-Copy of HER SWEETEST DOWNFALL by Rebecca Hamilton 1 x E-Copy of THE AWAKENING by Apryl Baker 1 x E-Copy of CLEOPATRA'S NEEDLE by Carole Lanham 1 x E-Copy of THE WATER WOLF by Thomas Sullivan 1 x E-Copy of SUMMONED by Rainy Kaye 1 x E-Copy of THE FORGOTTEN ONES by Laura Howard 1 x E-Copy of A PRESCRIPTION FOR DELIRIUM by Noree Cosper 1 x E-Copy of WHAT TRULY KNOWS by Louise Caiola 1 x E-Copy of SHADE by Kelley Anne Blount 1 x E-Copy of DEAD GIRLS NEVER SHUT UP by Susan Stec 1 x E-Copy of FOUR IN THE MORNING by Christi Goddard 1 x E-Copy of THE PORTRAIT OF ALATIEL SALAZAR by Steven Katriel 1 x E-Copy of THE TRAITORS' TRILOGY by Heather Kenealy 1 x E-Copy of EYES OF THE SEER by Peter Dawes 1 x E-Copy of INVISIBLE by DelSheree Gladden 1 x E-Copy of LIE TO ME by Angela Fristoe 1 x E-Copy of THE BREAKER'S CODE by Conner Kressley 1 x E-Copy of MADE TO FORGET by Samantha LaFantasie 1 x E-Copy of TRUE CONNECTION by Rachel Walter a Rafflecopter giveaway
Tour Schedule - One Week Blog Tour for Pandora Boxed Set by Various Authors from Aug 5 to 11, 2014. Aug 5 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy, Too! - http://3partnersinshopping.blogspot.com Deal Sharing Aunt - Promo http://www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com The Avid Reader - Promo http://the-avidreader.blogspot.com Indy Book Fairy - Promo http://paranormalbookfairy.blogspot.com/ Aug 6 JeanzBookRadNReview - Promo http://jeanzbookreadnreview.blogspot.co.uk/ Bookworm for Kids - Promo, Review - Into You and The Forgotten Ones http://www.bookwormforkids.blogspot.com The Idle Musings of a Writer's Mind - Promo http://theidlemusingsofawritersmind.blogspot.com Our New Generation for Reading - Promo http://jessica13bridgers.blogspot.com/ Aug 7 Fuonlyknew - Promo http://fuonlyknew.com Blue Books and Butterflies - Promo http://bluebooksandbutterflies.blogspot.com/ Night Owl Reviews - Promo http://www.nightowlreviews.com/V5/Blog Coffee Books & Art - Promo http://sarityahalomi.blogspot.com/ Aug 8 Accepted Wisdom - Promo http://icanonlybehele3.blogspot.com A Cauldron of Books - Promo http://acauldronofbooks.info Bajgajka Loves Books And Giveaways - Promo http://bajgajka.blogspot.com Eclipse Reviews - Promo http://eclipsereviews.weebly.com A One-click Addict's Book Blog - Promo http://aone-clickaddictsbookblog.blogspot.com Aug 9 Kimber Leigh Writes - Promo http://www.kimberleighwheaton.com Read That - Promo http://www.sookie72.wordpress.com/ http://www.facebook.com/dawnreadthat Book Nook Nuts - Promo http://booknooknuts.blogspot.com/ Cajun Book Lover - Promo http://www.cajunbooklover.blogspot.com Aug 10 Fictional Rendezvous Book Blog - Promo http://fictionalrendezvousbookblog.blogspot.com/ Hooked On Books Forever - Promo & Review - Pandora Box Set http://hookedonbooksforever.blogspot.co.uk/ Patricia D. Eddy - Promo http://www.pdeddy.com Portals to New Worlds - Promo http://authorkarenswart.blogspot.com Aug 11 The Phantom Paragrapher - Promo http://www.thephantomparagrapher.blogspot,com Angels with Attitude Book Reviews - Promo http://angelswithattitudebookreviews-joelle.blogspot.com Booky Ramblings of a Neurotic Mom - Promo http://bookyramblingsofaneuroticmom.blogspot.co.uk/ Darkest Cravings - Promo http://darkestcravings.weebly.com
August 8, 2014
New Release!! The Right Chord by @radefranco
Presented by:
For hot book news join our mailing list - http://eepurl.com/ZnJir
Title: The Right Chord Series: Brothers of Audubon Springs # 3
Author: RoseAnn DeFranco
Audience: Adult
Genre: Romance
Formats: E- Book & Paperback
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Cover by: Debbie Taylor
Editor: DJ Hendrickson
Pages: 258 pages
Date Published: August 6, 2014
Years in the cutthroat L.A. music industry have Kit Maggio yearning for love and acceptance in her hometown, Audubon Springs. Her position as a Theater Arts professor doesn't erase years of being shoved aside by her family. Her baby sister is getting married, and her high school sweetheart doesn't recognize her. Will she ever find what she needs? Vince Iuliano never imagined he'd be a single dad. Vowing no woman will ever again break his daughter's heart, he focuses on providing a happy and stable home. But when the love of his life rents the house next door, can he take a chance on happiness?
Vince never forgot Kit. Setting out to earn her forgiveness, they fall back into the rhythm of love and heat, much like the songs they wrote as teens. When L.A. calls, will Kit go, or stay and write her greatest love song?
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Right-Chord-Brothers-Audubon-Springs-ebook/dp/B00MG7OPMO/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1407292771&sr=8-4&keywords=The+Right+Chord Barnes and Nobel: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-right-chord-roseann-defranco/1120060578?ean=2940149624775
Kit couldn’t believe the extent to which she’d lost control. Vince standing in front of her, soaking wet, and looking about as sexy as she’d ever seen a man, brought out all her basic animal instincts. She wanted him, plain and simple. Unfortunately, those few moments of insanity were about to cost her. He’d always been the one. No other relationship would have ever worked, because she compared everything to the litmus test of this heat, this connection, this indefinable thing that only ever existed between the two of them.
“Kit?” Her name, spoken like a song, fell from his lips a second time.
“You don’t get to do that.” She steadied her hands by grabbing on to the openings of her robe and pulling them shut. The thin fabric now damp from being pressed against his hot, wet body. In his arms, the water steamed, scorching her. Away from him, she shivered.
“I didn’t do it alone.” It pleased her to see him breathless and unsteady. Please, dear God, let him feel the same.
“No, you don’t get it. I will not…” Tears gathered in her eyes and she steeled herself against them. “I refuse to be that woman for you.”
“What woman?”
“The convenient woman!” Anger won out over tears. “I refuse to ever be with you again by default.”
“What are you talking about?” He threw his arms out to his sides, a man lost at sea.
She was going to have to spell it out for him.
Title: Return To Audubon Springs Series: Brothers of Audubon Springs # 1
Pages: 248 pages
ISNB: 978-1-62830-101-4 D
ASIN: B00FDSL792
Date Published: 3 January 2014
When Emma Grant returns to her family's Audubon Springs beach house to fulfill the stipulations of her father's will, she has every intention of forcing her former lover out of the house for good. She's never fit into her wealthy family and would prefer avoiding her past, but with her brother threatening to reveal her young daughter, she has no choice.
Rafe Iuliano has other plans. The wealthy Grants tried to bribe him out of Emma's life years ago, but he's determined to prove once and for all that a master carpenter is worthy of Emma and the house.
Their ridiculous and steamy battle for the house reignites the love and passion that bloomed between them years ago. But when Rafe discovers she's kept their daughter a secret for two years, can he overcome anger and pride to claim his family and the love of his life, or will the deception drive a final wedge between them?
Amazon / Goodreads / Barnes and Noble / Itunes / Kobo 
Over 185 4 and 5 star Amazon reviews for the series
Title: Secondhand Romance
Series: Brothers of Audubon Springs # 2
Pages: 248 pages
ISNB: 978-1-62830-173-1
ASIN: B00HKRNUE4
Date Published: 9 April 2014
Annie O'Malley's dream of owning a secondhand bookstore in tight-knit Audubon Springs is coming true. Still reeling from her parents' sudden deaths, she believes that signs or messages can be found within the pages of books. She loves her job and has made plenty of friends but longs for the acceptance only love and a family can provide.
Tony Iuliano is there to fix the wiring in her shop. He doesn't believe in fate, magic, or the power of a good book. All this combined with his sexy-as-sin presence and all-knowing attitude infuriates Annie. The quirky bookworm intrigues him enough to accept her bet to read a book from her shop. When he discovers a stack of fifty-year-old love letters in the book, he wants to leave the past alone, but seeing it as a sign, Annie challenges him to read the letters and search for the long-lost lovers or lose the bet.
While shaking the dust off several ill-fated romances and fighting their attraction at every turn, the pair soon become the town gossip daily special. If they can stop arguing long enough, they may just discover this particular sign was meant for them all along.
Amazon / Goodreads / Barnes and Noble / Itunes / Kobo 
RoseAnn DeFranco grew up in upstate NY with her nose in a book and a song in her heart. Following the pursuit of a musical theatre career in NYC, she turned her creative energy to writing funny, steamy romance with heart. A NJ shore transplant, she enjoys time spent at the beach with her family and would love to one day live in a quaint shore town like the fictional town from her BROTHERS OF AUDUBON SPRINGS series. More information about these Humorous Contemporary Romances can be found at radefranco.com. 
Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Amazon
Release Blast Schedule - Three Day Release Blast The Right Chord by RoseAnn DeFranco from Aug 7 to 9, 2014 Aug 7 Rusty's Reading - http://www.rustysreading.com A One-click Addict's Book Blog - http://aone-clickaddictsbookblog.blogspot.com/ Deal Sharing Aunt - http://www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy, Too! - http://3partnersinshopping.blogspot.com Coffee Books & Art - http://sarityahalomi.blogspot.com/ Bibliophile Mystery - https://bibliophilemystery.blogspot.com Sweets Books - http://sweetsbooks.wordpress.com Booky Ramblings of a Neurotic Mom - http://bookyramblingsofaneuroticmom.blogspot.co.uk/ Angee's After Thoughts - http://www.angeesafterthoughts.com Blushing Divas Book Reviews - http://www.blushingdivasbookreviews.com Aug 8 Agapa Reads - http://www.agapareads.com This Redhead LOVES Books - http://thisredheadlovesbooks.blogspot.com/ The Avid Reader - http://the-avidreader.blogspot.com Bound 2 Escape - http://www.bound2escape.com Book Nook Nuts - http://booknooknuts.blogspot.com/ Indy Book Fairy - http://paranormalbookfairy.blogspot.com/ Clarissa Wild's Blog - http://clarissawild.blogspot.com Kande's Book Blog - http://kandesbookblog.blogspot.com/ Aug 9 The Phantom Paragrapher - http://www.thephantomparagrapher.blogspot.com For The Love Of Books - http://ftlobblog.blogspot.com/ Fictional Rendezvous Book Blog - http://fictionalrendezvousbookblog.blogspot.com/ Books, Authors, Blogs - http://therightbook4u.blogspot.com Cajun Book Lover - http://www.cajunbooklover.blogspot.com iHeart Books by MiLo18 - https://iHeartBooksbyMiLo18.blogspot.com Our New Generation for Reading - http://jessica13bridgers.blogspot.com/ Eclipse Reviews - http://www.eclipsereviews.weebly.com Portals to new Worlds - http://authorkarenswart.blogspot.com Darkest Cravings - http://www.darkestcravings.weebly.com
Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: The Blue Effect by @RoseShababy
The Blue Effect
Renegade Heroes
Book One
Rose Shababy
Genre: Adult Urban Sci-fi/Fantasy
Date of Publication: September 8th, 2014
Cover Artist: Regina Wamba
Book Description:
Blue Brennan is jaded and bitter despite her pinup girl looks and quick wit. Night after night, she scours the Seattle club scene looking for someone or something to fill the emptiness inside.
When she meets the mysterious Kasey, her world stops… literally. He claims she has the ability to control time and stuns her even further when he reveals his own gifts.
Blue is inexplicably drawn to Kasey and reluctantly enters his world filled with a new breed of humanity. They’re misfits like her, blessed or cursed with powerful abilities, struggling to hide their differences from the rest of society.
Then the group discovers a nameless, faceless sociopath with nightmarish powers; and he’s coming for Blue. She’s left reeling when they discover her gifts are the key to defeating his terrible evil and saving them all.
Now she must race against the clock to harness her own powers and save her new friends. Can she be more than a renegade? Can she be a hero too?
As I scanned the crowd my eyes fell on one person out of sync with the rest. Close to my age, maybe a little older, he obviously didn’t belong in the club. His clothes, messy looking slacks and a gray t-shirt, hung on his lean frame. He finished his look with a tartan scarf and brown fedora that seemed more at home on an old man than one in his twenties.
He pulled his hat off and shaggy brown hair fell across his eyes as he danced. Well, he didn’t dance so much as sway to the music, his eyes closed while a hint of a smile graced his lips. As he danced, he bobbed his head back and forth and his hands moved like graceful waves. His shadow grin seemed to infuse his entire body. He danced by himself as if he didn’t care what anyone around him thought, as if he danced for himself and no one else. He looked completely out of place, yet he appealed to me and I felt myself wanting to go to him.
I was shocked by the surge of jealousy that rushed through me as I stared at him. His face broke through my drunken haze and I realized this man was no paper doll. His face belonged to a truly happy man. Hell, he looked fucking ecstatic.
He had the face of an angel.
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
I’ve pretty much wanted to write my whole life. I got a little distracted along the way, but I finally found my way back. For a while I thought I wanted to be a therapist. I studied psychology in college, but finally realized that I needed to work on my own problems before I could help anyone else! Lol I’m grateful to have found my way back to writing. It feels so much more authentic, so much more “me.”
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
When I completed my first novel (still unpublished). That’s when I knew I could do it. Now, I’m just an unpaid writer. So far.
How long did it take to get your first book published?
This is my debut novel and after careful consideration and turning down a publishing contract, I chose to self-publish. That said, I’ve been working with real intent toward this goal for the last six or seven years.
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
I’m a customer service representative for a printing company. We have customers all over the country, many within the medical field. I work directly with customers from the start of a job to the end and everything between. We print everything from business cards to pens to bookmarks to coffee mugs to brochures to banners and so on. It’s not very exciting (although I get a great price on swag)!
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
The Blue Effect. The tagline pretty much nails it: Sometimes it takes a rebel to be a hero.
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
Self publish, although I’ve started my own company. I had an offer on the table a little while ago but turned it down. I like the idea of independent. I believe that we need more independent companies and I wanted to be part of the new era. I think it’s wonderful.
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
The Blue Effect is book one in the Renegade Heroes series. I have three books planned thus far, the storyline beginning with the first and finalizing in the third. I don’t have any plans for a fourth, although I’m not ruling that out. I love superheroes and science fiction/fantasy, so I can see myself continuing with that theme, although I do have some other books I’ve been working on that aren’t in that genre. We’ll see what happens!
What genre would you place your books into?
I’ve been calling The Blue Effect Urban Sci-fi/Fantasy
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
As I said, I love superheroes and science fiction/fantasy. I wanted to give a little tip of the hat to the comic book/graphic novels genre that I love so much but I’m not much of an artist, so I wrote a book instead! I’d love to work with a graphic artist to create actual graphic novels. That would be amazing. Maybe someday!
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?
The main character of The Blue Effect, Blue Brennan, is by far my favorite character I’ve ever written. She is bold and sassy and curses like a truck driver. She’s refreshingly honest, independent and fierce. I had so much fun with her. The most amazing part of writing her was discovering that I was really writing about myself, albeit somewhat exaggerated, but she is me in so many ways. Or who I’d like to be. Writing her made me appreciate some of my own qualities in ways I never had before.
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
I have an office in my house with a full cubicle. It’s in my basement so it’s nice and cool and private.
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
The Blue Effect is my debut novel, so I haven’t had any reviews yet. I plan on reading them! I’m nervous, of course, because I’m certain there will be bad reviews (even the best writer’s get them) and who wants to hear bad things about something they poured their heart and soul into?
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?
Titles are a tough one! I usually have a working title, although so far it’s never been the title that stuck!” The Blue Effect” was “Blue’s World” for the longest time, then I considered “A Clockwork Blue” but decided I didn’t want anyone to associate my novel with “A Clockwork Orange.” I had a whole list of possible titles!
Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?
I usually have an idea of a person and a story before I pick names and places.
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
A little of both. In The Blue Effect, I had an idea of the kind of person I wanted Blue to be, as well as Kasey, one of the other main characters. They evolved somewhat as I worked on the book, but the basics of what I wanted is still there.
Are there any hidden messages or morals contained in your books? (Morals as in like Aesops Fables type of "The moral of this story is..")
I would say that the message I’d like people to take with them is that heroes aren’t really people with powers and amazing abilities, rather, they’re just people. They’re you and me and the ability to be a hero exists in all of us. Having the courage to do what’s right, or even something as simple as donating blood are ways we can show the heroics that exist inside us. You know the saying, Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something else is more important than fear… that’s what it’s all about.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
I have a Nook and a Kindle. I got the Nook first and I thought that I would still read regular paper books, but to be honest, I rarely pick up a regular book anymore. The ereaders are just so easy to carry around and you have an entire library at your fingertips. I love it.
What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once?
I can’t pick just one! I love The Stand by Stephen King, Watership Down by Richard Adams, Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand, Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean Auel. I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve read each of those. They’re all a little dense, so each time you read them you find little things you forgot about or missed in prior readings.
Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?
I think they can, but a lot of the time it doesn’t work because you lose so much of the nuances of thought that books can provide. I think the worst book to movie I ever saw was Queen of the Damned (Anne Rice). It was a terrible hodgepodge of two books, so much of the story got lost and ground up. Just an awful movie. One of the best, in my opinion, was The Green Mile (Stephen King). Usually Stephen King’s books get murdered when they make the transition to film. Again, my opinion. The Green Mile retained everything important and the actors did a tremendous job of portraying the characters. I don’t know how anyone can watch that film and not cry, not feel the heartache of the story.
Your favorite food is?
Sushi. Or Indian curry. Especially yellow curry with a kick. Yum.
Your favorite singer/group is?
Ani Difranco
Your favorite color is?
Purple
Rose Shababy and her family reside in eastern Washington State. Rose grew up in the Northwest but swears she’s going to move to warmer climates someday. She’s claimed this for over 20 years, however, and has yet to move more than 75 miles away from her mother.
Rose has a deep love of all things Star Trek and yearns to travel the heavens, as well as an intense desire to be bitten by a radioactive spider.
Unfortunately she sucks at science and math so she hasn’t been able bring her dreams to life, instead living vicariously through books, comics, television and film. She hopes to someday make a million dollars so she can afford to buy her way to the international space station, but she’d settle for being able to fly around the world and leap tall buildings in a single bound.
Rose also loves to cook and worked for years in a gourmet Italian grocery and deli where she learned to hone her skills. She prepares culinary masterpieces for her family, but fervently wishes the dishes would wash themselves. Especially now that her dishwashers/children are nearly grown and only one still lives at home.
Rose likes to use her free time wisely. For instance, she likes to daydream, will often read for hours until she falls asleep on the couch with an electric blanket and a warm tabby cat curled up on her hip, as well as spending cozy weekend days watching Syfy movies like Sharknado and Mega Piranha with her husband.
If Rose were a cartoon animal, she’d prefer to be a wise old owl or a sleek and sexy jaguar, but in reality she’d probably be a myopic mole with coke-bottle glasses.
http://roseshababy.com/category/roses-brain/
https://www.facebook.com/rose.shababy
Series Blast, Giveaway & Interview: The Brethren Series by @SaraReinke
![Dark Vengeance Banner 851 x 315_thumb[1]](http://lh5.ggpht.com/-I_9SfBtNOj8/U-R94Yjz_MI/AAAAAAAAK50/O5yWpvqWo0A/s1600-h/Dark-Vengeance-Banner-851-x-315_thum.png)
![clip_image002_thumb[1]](http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wCWFIB9lCdA/U-R-ICea4PI/AAAAAAAAK6U/gOXbai06A88/s1600-h/clip_image002_thumb12.jpg)
Dark Vengeance Part 1
The Brethren Series
Book 6
Sara Reinke
Genre: paranormal/vampire
Publisher: Bloodhorse Press
Date of Publication: 11/2011
ISBN: 9780983216322
ASIN: B006CPC4UQ
Number of pages: 155
Word Count: 62,640
Book Description:
Brandon Noble thinks the worst is behind him and is ready to begin a new life with the woman he loves. Lina Jones is more reluctant to let bygones be bygones, but agrees to try for Brandon's sake. But just as they look forward to a promising future together, new danger arises -- and Brandon's very nature could threaten to tear them ruthlessly apart.
Smashwords Amazon Kindle Amazon Paperback BN
Lina had never seen Brandon so fully enthralled by the bloodlust before—not without him feeding from her or finding sexual release. It had left him exhausted, flustered and—she realized suddenly—frightened.
Because he’s never seen himself like this, either.
“Brandon,” she whispered, reaching up to press her palm to his cheek. God, he was burning up, his skin hot like the side of a glassworks furnace. “Feed from me.”
Don’t ask me that, he gasped, shaking his head. God, Lina, please. I can’t!
“Yes, you can,” she pleaded. “You have to try. This isn’t working.”
It has to! he cried. Shaking his head his head to dislodge her hand from his face, he then seized hold of her, locking his fingers through hers, pinning her hands down against the bed. You don’t understand, he seethed, his brows furrowed. He leaned down enough for her to see herself—her sudden, visible alarm—reflected in the obsidian pools of his eyes. This has to work—it has to. If I bite you now, I won’t be able to stop. Do you get it? Do you hear me? I won’t be able to stop myself!
![clip_image004_thumb[1]](http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QXXoUOeH9L8/U-R-Ud5hEFI/AAAAAAAAK60/E2-loq6Rv3Q/s1600-h/clip_image004_thumb12.jpg)
Dark Vengeance Part 2
The Brethren Series
Book 8
Sara Reinke
Genre: paranormal/vampire
Publisher: Bloodhorse Press
Date of Publication: 6/2014
ISBN: 9781311902924
ASIN: pending
Number of pages: 212
Word Count: 130,860
Book Description:
From the beginning, it's been the two of them: Brandon Noble and Lina Jones, against the world...against all odds. But in the end, Brandon couldn't resist his true vampire nature, and the relentless pull of the blood lust drove them apart. Now he's disappeared without a trace and his life may very well be in danger. Can Lina put aside her broken heart to help find the man she loves? Or does Brandon's salvation lie in the hands of the most unlikely hero of all?
Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/3KIlWNhpZmk
Smashwords Amazon BN
Brandon lay spooned against Lina, his chest facing her back, the curves of her body resting in perfect complement with his own. Her hair, a tousled mess of dark, springy curls, tickled the underside of his nose. He had his hand draped lightly over the slim indention of her waist, his fingers loosely twined through hers.
I don’t understand this—any of it, Brandon thought. But he found he no longer had the heart to question it. Because this is what I want—you’re what I want, Lina, he thought, breathing in the scent of her perfume, and kissing her lightly through her hair. You’re what I need.
Although he was loath to leave her, he slowly drew free from their embrace and slipped out of bed. Leaving her curled on her side, her body draped in blankets, he pulled on a pair of jeans and a T-shirt. Grabbing his cell phone, Brandon padded softly toward the bedroom doorway. Here, he paused, glancing over his shoulder, watching as she dozed, cat-like and comfortable, in a sunbeam.
God, you’re beautiful, he thought, the corners of his mouth lifting in a soft smile. I want this every day, for the rest of my life. I want you.
He wandered through the chateau, and everything was just as he remembered. It had come pre-furnished, courtesy of the Morins, but Lina had added her own touches here and there to the décor: a tabletop sculpture of a moose made from old paint cans, springs and cogs in the living room bought during an outing to an art gallery with Tessa; a framed photograph of her and Brandon taken outside one of the gaudy casino exteriors on the Nevada side of the lake; a bowl of giant pinecones—each bigger than a softball—she’d collected from the yard outside. He gazed out the bay windows in the living room and found everything outside just as he’d known it, too—flawless azure sky, clustered stands of towering evergreen trees, the distant but distinct cerulean plane of Emerald Bay below.
It was a beautiful place, a peaceful place, and as it always did, it made Brandon feel at ease simply to be there, bearing mute witness to its splendor.
He sat down on the couch and looked down at the cell phone in his hand. Again, it occurred to him—floating to mind, as if something rancid bobbing briefly to the surface in a murky pond—that the phone was supposed to be lost.
When Jackson moved out of his mother’s house in Florida, he thought. His head hurt, a sudden burst, a throbbing ache just behind his eyes, and with a frown, he pinched the bridge of his nose. Only I didn’t go to Florida. So I couldn’t have lost my phone there. Besides… He opened his eyes, blinking down at the iPhone in his hand. …I have it right here. That’s proof I didn’t lose it.
He opened his messages as Lina had done, and felt his heart quicken with excitement as he saw Sebastian’s name and number pop up. If losing his phone had been just a dream, then…
Then losing my dad must’ve been one, too, he thought, tapping on the touchscreen keypad, and typing a message: Hey, Dad—are you busy?
For a long moment, he couldn’t send the message, even though he knew it was ridiculous to hesitate. The idea that Sebastian was gone had been so powerful and poignant within him; to realize now that he wasn’t, that Brandon could have another chance—countless chances—to talk to him, text him, interact with him was damn near overwhelming.
But almost as soon as he pressed send, the phone vibrated in his hand, not because Sebastian’s response had been so quickly forthcoming, but because a dialogue box had appeared onscreen: Signal lost. Message not sent. Please try again.
What? With a frown, Brandon held up the phone: no bars, no signal, no reception. He rose to his feet and walked closer to the windows, but still had no luck. He moved around the house, going from room to room; he turned the phone off and on again, but no matter what he tried, he couldn’t get a transmission signal. Shrugging on a lightweight jacket, he stepped out onto the deck to see if the reception was any better. But it wasn’t.
Damn it, Brandon thought with a deepening frown, as he glared, frustrated, at the impotent phone in his hand. It had apparently worked last night—there was the conversation he’d had with his father right there on the screen to prove it. But still, Brandon had no memory of that conversation, not even the distant, dream-like sort in which Sebastian had died, or that he had lost his cell phone. That utter lack of memory did more than trouble Brandon. It pained him.
Because I feel cheated somehow, he thought, as ridiculous as it sounded. He felt desperate now to get in touch with Sebastian, to prove to himself that this was reality, and everything else—all of the half-memories bobbing and percolating in the back of his mind—were dreams. I want to talk to my dad. Even if it’s only through a stupid goddamn text, I want to talk to…
All at once, Brandon’s attention snapped from the phone in his hand to the woods, his brows narrowing, his entire body growing instantly tense. He could sense another Brethren, that distinctive, tingling sensation that meant another like him was nearby. Normally at the Morin compound, this wouldn’t have alarmed him because the only ones there were Brethren. But in that moment, as he felt that unmistakable awareness of other Brethren within his proximity, he realized he hadn’t been feeling it all along as he’d grown accustomed. It was like the entire area was completely empty, at least of other vampires—until now.
Below him, through the tangle of trees, Brandon saw him, a Brethren man looking up at the bungalow—most specifically, at Brandon. His eyes were a clear, nearly lucent shade of blue, like the waters of Lake Tahoe. He reached for Brandon as if desperately imploring, his fingers splayed wide, and his arm had been stripped of any visible flesh, flayed so that the bright red meat of his muscles lay gruesomely exposed. Blood spattered in fat droplets onto the floor and the stark white sheets beneath him were stained scarlet.
Please… the man gasped, and Brandon knew his face, his eyes—his name.
Aaron.
Please… Aaron begged, his eyes glassy with pain, wide with alarm. Don’t…!
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
I’ve written stories from the time I was a very young child. It’s always been a passion of mine, and that I have the opportunity to share my stories with others, to entertain them, is such a privilege and thrill for me. I think I’ve always known that no matter what else I did in life, writing would always have a prominent role.
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
I’ve always considered myself to be a writer. Even in grade school, I remember my writing taking priority for me—I’d carry notebooks filled with stories around with me, and add to them constantly. When other children my age were asking for bikes or dolls, I wanted a typewriter (and later, a word processor) so that I could work on my manuscripts. In high school, I had the opportunity to begin sharing my work with a larger audience than family and teachers by entering different contests, and earning accolades in these competitions helped to cement in my mind that it was what I wanted to do. It took a long time after that for me to be published, and I’ll admit, I still have ambitions of achieving even more in terms of my writing. But for now, I’m pleased and proud of my accomplishments, and feel I’ve definitely earned the right to call myself a “writer.”
How long did it take to get your first book published?
It depends on your point of view. If you mean from the point in my life when I knew I wanted to be a published author, then a long, long time—because I’ve wanted that since childhood. If you mean from the point in which I first began seeking publication at all, then it was several years filled with the typical ups and downs—and rejection letters—I think all authors face. If you mean from the moment I originally conceived of the idea for the Brethren Series—a race of vampires who live in isolated communities on Kentucky horse farms—then it was nearly two decades, because I had the idea in high school. And if you mean from the time I pitched the story to the editor at Kensington to the time I was offered a contract, it was pretty much the blink of an eye—less than two weeks, I think.
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
I have a Bachelor’s degree in public relations, and worked for a not-for-profit company for more than 10 years in a graphic design, public relations, and writing capacity. As my 40th birthday approached, I had a midlife crisis of sorts, and decided to go into nursing. My mother has been a registered nurse for more than 30 years, and I’d always been interested in the profession—but talked myself out of pursuing it. But I wanted to feel like I had a job that made a difference, not only to others but to myself as well, and with this in mind, I finally bit the bullet and went back to school. I’m so glad I did. Today, I’m an RN and I work in a local hospital in a cardiac critical care unit. It’s an amazing job—challenging, educating, exhausting, and rewarding beyond my wildest imagination. As much as writing feels like an intrinsic part of my life, so too does nursing, and I really feel that between the two passions, I’ve finally found where I’m meant to be in life.
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
Dark Vengeance Part 2: From the beginning, it’s been the two of them: Brandon Noble and Lina Jones, against the world…against all odds. But sometimes, true love isn’t enough…
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
The first two books in the Brethren Series were published by Kensington Publishing’s Zebra line. The third is available from Double Dragon Publishing, and all of the other volumes since then have been self-published. I love self-publishing, because I’m such a control freak. I don’t think I could ever be satisfied with so-called traditional publishing again, and taking a back seat on so much of the production work.
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
Honestly, it depends on what else is going on in my life. Two years passed between the publication of Dark Vengeance Part 1 and Dark Vengeance Part 2. I’m embarrassed that it took me so long, but during that time, I was juggling nursing school, working full-time, plus home life with a husband, kids, pets, laundry, and all of that. So by contrast, I’m working on the next Brethren book at the moment, and I’m 55,000 words into it, and it’s only been two months. I’m either remarkably proficient or shamefully slow, all based on how life outside of writing is going.
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
My current work-in-progress, the next Brethren book, is sort of a change for me—instead of featuring a heterosexual couple, the story revolves around a gay couple. It’s my first M/M story, but I am absolutely in love with the characters and plot. It’s literally flying from my fingertips. After that, I will be working on the subsequent Brethren book, which will again focus on Lina and Brandon. I left some story points open-ended, some loose ends that need a good old-fashioned climactic conclusion! I have other books outside of the series planned in various stages; when I get to them depends on how I’m able to squeeze them in. I’m also exploring some new (at least to me) online publishing venues like Wattpad and Creepypasta, which I think are amazing. That so many people are so excited about writing, and so actively involved in it, is a wonderful thing.
What genre would you place your books into?
Many of the Brethren books are paranormal romance in the truest sense of the word, while others—including Dark Vengeance Part 1 and Part 2—are more urban fantasy. That’s because Lina and Brandon have already had their more formulaic romance in Dark Thirst, the first book in the series, and in the Vengeance books, it’s more about how their relationship has evolved since then, the new challenges and obstacles they have to face and overcome.
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
I’ve always been a sci-fi/comic book/urban fantasy kind of girl. I’ve also always been a hopeless romantic. For example, as a teen, I collected X-Men comics, and my favorite storyline was without question the doomed love affair between Gambit and Rogue. I like writing stories that combine these same sorts of elements—adventure, excitement, passion, superhuman abilities.
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?
It’s hard for me to dislike any of my characters. I find something in all of them that appeals to me in one way or another. And my favorite among them all usually depends on which story I’m writing at the time! Of course, I usually find myself most drawn to the heroes—what author doesn’t write about her ideal guy in the leading role?
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
Unfortunately, I have no one particular routine. As a mother, nurse, freelance copyeditor, chief cook and proverbial bottle washer in my house, I juggle writing in pretty much catch-as-catch-can. But I do fit it in, because it’s an important part of my life, and it’s enjoyable to me. I have my own desk and computer in our dining room (the kids have their own, so this is my personal, dedicated writing space), and my family knows to interrupt me as little as possible if they hear the keyboard clicking. Since it’s not exactly private, I use my earbuds and a white noise app on my iPhone to tune out outside distractions.
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
I do. Even the not-so-glowing ones. I try to take away something constructive from my reviews, both positive and negative. Reader feedback definitely helps me to shape where future stories go.
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?
I usually choose the title first. It may evolve over time, but I’m terrible at them for some reason, so I try to get them out of the way as soon as possible!
How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?
As far as place names, I’m often inspired by places I’ve actually visited or lived. A lot of times the floor plan of houses or apartments in my stories are based on real places either myself or friends or family have called home. My brother-in-law used to live in Lake Tahoe, California, and when we visited him, I fell absolutely in love with the area—that’s why you’ll see much of the Brethren series at least partially set there.
As for character names, this is harder to explain. I will spend a lot of time poring through online name references trying to find the perfect name for my characters, one that “clicks” in my mind. There’s no exact science or formula to it; it’s just a matter of what I feel fits best with the mental picture I have of my character.
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
When it comes to character development, I have a basic idea in mind when I begin to write, the foundation of a character’s personality, their most prominent traits, the basics of their backstory. The rest fleshes itself out as I go along, and sometimes, a character will even change from my original conception of them as the story progresses.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
Honestly, I love my Kindle Fire. I love having access to so many books in so compact a device. As an author, I know the excitement that comes from seeing your work in print, but as a reader, I have to say hands-down, I’m an ebook girl.
Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?
I think it depends on the book and the movie. Some books translate better into movies, because the stories rely on action, which is often best depicted visually as opposed to in words. But sometimes, in terms of character-driven stories, the movie version just doesn’t allow the viewer that same intimate viewpoint they enjoy as a reader.
“Definitely an author to watch.” That’s how Romantic Times Book Reviews magazine describes Sara Reinke.
New York Times bestselling author Karen Robards calls Reinke “a new paranormal star” and Love Romances and More hails her as “a fresh new voice to a genre that has grown stale.”
Dark Thirst and Dark Hunger, the first two books in The Brethren Series of vampire romance are available from Kensington/Zebra Books, while the third installment, Dark Passion, is available from Double Dragon Publishing.
The series continued with Dark Passages: Tristan & Karen, Dark Passages 2: Pilar & Elías and Dark Vengeance Parts 1 and 2, from Bloodhorse Press.
Learn more about Sara and her available titles at www.sarareinke.com
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sara-Reinke/101431290002605
August 7, 2014
Cover Reveal: Too Much to Lose by Samantha Holt
EXCERPT - PG “If you’re in trouble, I know some people who can help.” “I’m not in trouble. Really, I’m not. I mean who would want to kill me? I know bankers aren’t exactly popular—” she lets loose a shaky laugh “—but I’m harmless.” Harmless? Not sure about that. Jess sends my heart racing, makes my skin clammy. She’s driving me insane. Harmless? No way. “What do you want me to do?” I ask. “Do?” “Shall I stick around?” “Oh. No, you don’t need to do that.” “I don’t mind.” “I’m fine. Seriously. Thank you for today. You must be tired and I bet your side hurts.” It does, but I’m not going to admit to that. “It’s fine.” “Look about that kiss....” “That was my fault.” “I kissed you.” “You did.” I can’t resist letting my mouth curve upwards. She kissed me, but I don’t know if that’s a bad or a good thing. While my pride basks in it, the voice inside that keeps pulling at my gut wants to scream at her to run while she still can. I’m no good for her. “But I kissed you back,” I point out. “And I should not have been... er... touching you out there.” She draws her bottom lip between her teeth. “It’s okay.” Hell, how do those two tiny words send an arrow of need straight to my cock? It’s okay that I was kissing her? Or touching her up? It’s okay that I want her so badly I nearly bent her over my bike to fuck her? Before I can dwell on it anymore and make an even bigger fool of myself, I get to my feet. “Will you let me stay?” “I don’t think so. It’s too risky.” A hard knot forms in my throat. I’m more dangerous to her than a crazed gunman it seems. She might be right. If—when—I find that money, her whole life is going to come crashing down. “Don’t answer the door to anyone. Be careful. Call me if you need me. In fact, call me tomorrow.” She follows me to the door. “Please?” I add as uncertainty dashes across her face. Jess opens the door and I step out. “I’ll call you,” she says when I turn to face her. “Promise?” She rolls her eyes and her mouth curves. “I promise.” Those lush lips snare my attention and my own smile drops. My skin feels hot and itchy, my pulse urgent. This is insane. I rest an arm against the door frame, my feet still firmly planted on the other side of the threshold and bring my mouth slowly down on hers. She softens but doesn’t touch me. We’re divided by the invisible line between the corridor and her room. I can’t help thinking of it as symbolic. We’re divided by secrets and lies. Not that any of that matters once our lips connect. I swear I’ve never wanted to kiss a woman somuch. Kisses are about the end game. But not with Jess. I want to drown in her kisses, to kiss her all day and see if I ever tire of them. I suspect it’s unlikely.
AUTHOR BIO Samantha lives in a small village in England with her gorgeous twin girls and husband who is a trained bodyguard and ex-soldier. She traditionally writes historical romances involving chivalrous knights and hot highlanders, but occasionally dabbles in contemporary romance. AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE WEBSITE / BLOG FACEBOOK GIVEAWAY PRIZES 1 x paperback copy of Not Another Soldier 2 x $2.99 ebooks of choice a Rafflecopter giveaway 
August 4, 2014
New Release & Giveaway: Bittersweet Deceit by Blakely Bennett
Title: Bittersweet Deceit
Author: Blakely Bennett
Genre: Erotic Romance
Release Date: August 5, 2014
Cover Designer: Yocla Designs
Editing: Read Owl
Lainie is a thirty year old, full-figured woman entrenched in a love affair with a married man. Although Lainie loves Mason desperately, she vows never to say those three little words while he remains with his wife.
Stayman, an enigma in Lainie’s close-knit group of friends, has been circling her with interest, trying to garner her attention. When circumstances make it clear who’s blocking his way—Mason—Stay goes full-court press in pursuit of Lainie.
Lainie doesn’t see Stay as relationship potential because she is blinded by her love for Mason. However, the more she learns about Stay, the more she comes to realize she never really knew him in the first place.
An unexplainable mystical connection evolves between Lainie and Stay and she has to choose between a man she so hopelessly loves and a man who offers her everything she needs.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1s9NkD2
B&N: http://bit.ly/1kCZsOr
Smashwords: http://bit.ly/1kkw1QL
iTunes: http://bit.ly/1sqg3F1
I slipped into the jacket and latched the repeating circles onto my wrist. The bottom of the coat stopped just where the broad lines of the dress changed from horizontal to vertical. “What do you think?” I asked Samantha.
“You look stunning,” a deep male voice responded. I turned around and found Stay smiling at me.
“Wow Stay,” Sam said before I could respond. “Looking mighty handsome. If I didn’t know any better, I’d think this is a date.”
Stayman looked sharp in his black dress pants, matching coat, and dark-gray dress shirt. I gazed at him but was at a loss for words. We stared at each other for a second.
Sam saved me by saying, “Stay, there’s a wire mannequin in the attic that I’d like brought down, and Lane and I can’t lift it. I wondered if you could do that for us. Not now. I wouldn’t want you to mess up your clothes, but—”
As he removed his coat, he said, “It shouldn’t take long and I’ll just take off my shirt.”
He started unbuttoning as both Samantha and I watched as he slowly revealed his chest. Stay slipped out of his shirt and laid it neatly on top of his jacket.
His smooth, lean torso was highly defined and I got caught staring at his chest. He winked at me and then said to Sam, “Come on and show me the way.”
Once they walked away, I glared into the mirror and said, “Don’t even think about it.”
Minutes later, he had managed to carry the mannequin down.
“Let’s put it in the back,” I said, leading the way. “It needs to be cleaned up before it can be out on the floor.” I showed him where to put it. Scanning his physique from his head to his shoes, I noticed that he continued to let his golden-brown hair grow in and chose to where black boots instead of dress shoes. To make matters worse, his five o’clock shadow was incredibly sexy. Damn, he looks hot. Look away girl, just look away!
“Here,” I said, holding out a lint roller, but not making eye contact.
Some dust had settled on the front of his pants just over the zipper area. “You don’t want to help?”
I turned away and said, “Go get dressed.”
“Are you sure that’s your final decision?”
“Very sure.” My rapidly beating heart settled down once his clothing was back on.
“Are you ready to go?” he asked.
“Let me go grab my clothes bag and my clutch and I will be.” Sam followed me into my office.
“He looks hot!” she exclaimed. “He must really like you. I’ve never seen him dressed up before.”
“Stop it,” I said, making sure my dress lay straight.
“Forget about MM for the night,” she said to me with a serious expression. She pulled the tag off my jacket.
“That’s not possible. Thanks for closing up and helping with the outfit.”
“No problem.
Blakely Bennett grew up in Southeast Florida and has been residing in the great Northwest for over eight years. She graduated from Nova Southeastern University with a degree in psychology, which accounts for her particular interest in crafting the personalities, struggles, and motivations of her characters. She is an avid reader of many genres of fiction, but especially erotica and romance. Writing has always been her bliss. She is attracted to stories of self-struggle and ultimate recovery.
Blakely is married to a wonderful, loving and supportive husband, also a writer, who helps to keep her grounded. She is a mother, a communitarian, a lover of music (always on while she is writing—thank you, Pandora), and a good friend. An advocate of love and female empowerment, she is a facilitator for a women’s group. She loves to walk and hike for exercise and finds that, since moving to Seattle, WA, she is now one of those “crazy” people who walk in the rain.
Bittersweet Deceit (erotic romance) is her 6th novel. She is also the author of the dark erotic suspense, My Body Trilogy (My Body-His, My Body-His (Marcello) & My Body-Mine) and co-authored the contemporary romance, The Demarcation of Jack with her husband, Dana Bennett.
Website • Facebook • Twitter • Pinterest • Google+ • Email
Librarything • Goodreads • Microcerpt • AUTHORdB • Amazon
ALSO AVAILABLE
.jpg)
Jacqs is a twenty-eight year old woman caught up in an on again, off again relationship with Bond, who is her best friend and the one who causes her the most heartache. She succumbs, yet again, to his powerful charisma, but vows not make it into more than it is, a great night of sex.
Bond, too sexy for his own good, wants Jacqs for himself as he “dates” his way through the female population of South Florida. He selfishly doesn’t see the conflict of interest.
Red, Bond’s best friend, has watched Bond take Jacqs for granted for way too long and soon stakes his own claim on her.
Will Red and Jacqs budding relationship pull apart their tight-knit group of friends and will Jacqs survive being Stuck In Between.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
August 1, 2014
Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Glimpse of Darkness by @NicoleDelaCroix
Glimpse of Darkness
Volume 1: Chronicles of the Cursed
Nicole Delacroix
Genre: YA Paranormal/Fantasy
ISBN: 1497335930
ISBN: 978-1497335936
ASIN: B00JWUOMIU
Number of pages: 367
Word Count: 68183
Cover Artist: Javier Charro
Book Description:
Charlene (Charlie) Bennett is a simple waitress in the wilds of Hyder, Alaska whose father has just gone missing. Isolated and alone, her fathers' disappearance is nothing new to her, but this time things are a little different.
For starters, there is a handsome stranger, Daniel that has come to town and while Charlie has never taken more than a passing interest in strangers, she has an immediate and intense attraction to this one. Secondly, she's soon to find out that this stranger isn't what he appears. He's about to throw Charlie's entire world into a major upheaval.
Now Charlie has to decide if she believes this strangers' incredible story and follow Daniel or if she wants to stay in the only home she's ever known for an uncertain future and an absentee father. As she comes to terms with what Daniel shows her, she realizes that he's the only true thing in her life and leaves everything she knows behind to follow the handsome stranger.
She was standing in the middle of the poorly lit living room surrounded by chaos holding a baseball bat looking more like a scared child than the woman she was. "Charlie, please open the door." The voice sounded so familiar to her, but what on Earth would he be doing here, and how did he know where she lived. She moved towards the door. "Daniel?" "Yes. Charlie, please trust me, we don't have very much time, please open the door and let me help you."
She was very confused but she moved slowly to the door. She knew that Daniel couldn't have possibly done this mess, unless he had done it when she was working. But why would he do something like this and then spend the evening with her. "Charlie, please hurry, we don't have much time and I need you to trust me. I had nothing to do with what's happened in your home, believe me. I'm here only to help you."
She reached for the locks on the door and slowly turned them to open the door. Before she could even turn the knob, Daniel had turned the door and pushed his way in. He quickly moved through the door and closed it again and locked it pushing furniture in front of the door and windows. Charlie was standing there staring at him with the baseball bat still in a defense mode. "You can put that down; it won't do you any good anyway."
Charlie was disoriented and didn't understand what was going on. "What are you doing here? And how do you even know where I live?" Daniel hadn't stopped moving around the room moving furniture into defensive positions around the doors and windows. "I followed you Charlie." "What?! How did you follow me? I drove off and you were still standing in the parking lot when I left." "No Charlie. I wasn't. You saw me following you; you just don't want to admit that you knew it was me. But we don't have time for this right now. Please get whatever you need to leave this place forever and get to the back door as quickly as you can."
She was just standing there looking at him in bewilderment. What the hell did he mean he followed her? She had no idea what he was talking about, and leave this place forever, why on Earth would she do that? "Charlie. MOVE." His voice was filled with urgency and terror and Charlie snapped to her senses.
"I don't understand. What's going on?" Charlie was near tears, she didn't deal well with pressure to make snap decisions and was feeling overwhelmed by what was happening. "Charlie. I don't have time to explain everything to you, so please you will have to take some of this on faith until we can discuss this in a way that I can explain. Please. You know I would never hurt you; in fact I'm doing my best to prevent just that. But you are in serious danger right now, and I need you to focus and do as I say. Can you do that for me?"
Charlie was blinking back the tears but nodded her head. She didn't know why she trusted this man, but he'd not given her any reason not to and right now he was thinking straight and she wasn't. "Go into your room, grab as much clothes as you can put into a backpack. Nothing more than a backpack. Say you understand me." "I understand." "Good. Take only what you can carry in this one backpack, nothing more, and only take what you need. I know it's hard to let go of some things, but they are only possessions, so decide if they are worth your life. If they are, take them, if not, leave it. Say you understand me." "I understand, but..." "We don't have time, Charlie. NOW."
Character Name: Daniel
Character Bio:
Full Name: Dan’El (modernized to Daniel)
Sex: Male
Race/species: Angel, Caucasian
Age(and how old they look): Looks= 30, Actual=5894 human years
Height: 6” possibly taller
Weight: Thin but not waiflike
Eye color(s): Green possibly blue
Hair color(s): Dark Brown, possibly black
Hair length: Short
Hair style: Curly
Complexion: Pale, nearly perfectly flawless
Abilities(As in powers): Ability to transform into a wolf, reading both hearts and minds, healing, hand to hand combat, weaponry skill, manifestation.
![clip_image001[4]](http://lh4.ggpht.com/-IE3Xwqux4Vo/U9qmsOONOGI/AAAAAAAAK0M/XbPGnzNdCl4/s1600-h/clip_image001%25255B4%25255D%25255B2%25255D.jpg)
Describe yourself what is your worst and best quality?
My best quality would be my ability to reach hearts and minds and guide them to the right decision. This was my function when I was sent down to this planet, and it’s something that I’m still committed to giving to mankind. My worst quality is that I’ve run out of patience with most of the humans on this planet, but Charlie is beginning to change my mind. Maybe humanity isn’t as bad as I think it is, I guess we’ll see about that.
What is the one thing you wish other people knew about you?
The pain and suffering that I’ve endured for mankind as a whole. I’ve had my heart ripped from my chest simply for trying to save humans. I’m exhausted and defeated with the whole idea and reluctant to put my heart on the line anymore for anyone.
What is your biggest secret something no one knows about?
I hate my fellow angels. They are greedy, vindictive and childish. I’ve spent most of my time on this planet trying to help and guide mankind, but I’ve always been under Sam’s thumb. Now that I’ve decided that I will no longer further his agenda, I’m outcast with only a few rogue angels as friends. I would do anything to be free of this burden on me.
What are you most afraid of?
Losing the thing I love the most, Charlie.
What do you want more than anything?
I would want to live the rest of my time on this planet without having to answer to anyone else and be able to live that life with Charlie by my side.
What is your relationship status?
Unfortunately, I’m single but hopeful.
How would you describe your sense of fashion?
Functional; I prefer jeans and plain shirts, it’s easier for people to forget you if you don’t stand out.
How much of a rebel are you?
Ha! I’m a rogue angel. I don’t listen to my superior angels and I don’t listen to God anymore. I don’t believe they are doing what’s best for the people they claim to protect. They have lost their way and I refuse to be a part of it any longer.
What do you considered to be your greatest achievement?
The fact that I’ve left Sam’s mission unfinished; I’ve managed to save Charlie so far and I know that I will never live to see a time where she’s not by my side. I will die before I allow her to be harmed.
What is your idea of happiness?
True happiness for me is enjoying simple things and time with the love of my life.
What is your current state of mind?
I would say I’m fearful and paranoid but remain hopeful.
What is your most treasured possession?
My pictures of my past; I bring them with me everywhere I go and I rarely show them to anyone, unless they are special to me.
What is your most marked characteristic?
I would claim that I don’t have one, but most humans are mesmerized by my eye color or my looks. I really don’t see what’s so bloody special about either of those characteristics. I don’t think I’m all that attractive.
What is it that you, most dislike?
Mendacity and subterfuge, tell me outright and we’re good.
Which living person do you, most despise?
Well I’m not sure that he’s really a person as he’s an angel like me but Sam. He’s the leader of the faction of angels that is trying to eliminate my sweet Charlie.
What is your greatest regret?
That I’ve been unable to save any of the women that have loved me, unfortunately, Sam has always managed to eliminate them.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Men are so very easy going and simple when you get down to it. It makes my job so much easier since I don’t have to give infinite reasons why something is, they simply accept it.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
Do I really need to say it? Boobs... Okay, I guess you meant something deeper than physical. Women are so accepting. I’ve told many women what I am and it takes them very little time to accept me as non-human. But seriously, it’s the boobs.
Who is your favorite hero in fiction?
Hamlet. Shakespeare was a pretty good bloke; even though he was quite the womanizer, but there is no doubt that he could write a character. I love Hamlet because he’s tormented and everything about his identity is challenged. I’ve always sympathized with Hamlet.
Which living person do you most admire?
Robert Downey Jr. Life has kicked this man and he’s come through it all wiser and better. Besides who doesn’t love his sense of humor?
If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?
I’m not sure that I would change anything about myself, but if I have to pick something then I would change my smile. It’s a little crooked and I’d like to fix that, but it’s really just aesthetic.
What is your motto?
Serve all, but love only one.
Nicole Delacroix was born in Frankfurt Germany to a German mother and American Military father. Her parents instilled in her a deep love of the written word and a profound respect for literature in all forms. So it's little wonder that from the moment she could first write she knew that writing would always be a part of who she is. From short stories to dabbling in scriptwriting she passes her time with her day job as an IT professional but feverishly writes well into the night. Her passion for literature encompasses many different genres but her heart beats true with fantasy and science fiction. She's fiercely loyal to friends and family and is eagerly awaiting the day when she can move to London England, her childhood dream.
Web: http://nicole-delacroix.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/writer.nicoledelacroix
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NicoleDelaCroix
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8177927.Nicole_Delacroix
