Karen Swart's Blog, page 8
September 21, 2015
#PREORDER DARK & DANGEROUS: 9 Dark Romances by NYT & USA TODAY Bestselling Authors! #DarkRomance @WildClarissa
Title: Dark & Dangerous: A Boxed Set of possessive alphas, sexy bad-boys, and savage heroes Authors: Clarissa Wild, Lili St. Germain, Nashoda Rose, M. Never, C.D. Reiss, Gemma James, Vanessa Waltz, Skye Warren & Skye Callahan Release Date: October 13th, 2015 Genre: Dark Romance & Suspense (18+)Cover Designer: LM Creations
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26118448-dark-dangerous Synopsis
Note: The cover is outdated and is currently being changed to reflect the changes in the author setup.
*** 9 tales of dark desire from your favorite NEW YORK TIMES & USA TODAY Bestselling Authors! ***
Over 2500 pages of hot & dangerous alpha males - On SALE for a LIMITED TIME!
Delicious dark romance, toe-curling suspense, and sinful pleasure, all packed into one boxed set. We’ve gathered all your favorite Dark Romance and Suspense stories and combined them into one scorching bundle. These possessive alphas, sexy bad-boys, and savage heroes will claim your heart and leave you begging for mercy.
~ Mr. X (Clarissa Wild): He’s come to kill me. I don’t know his name, but I know he wants me. He is Mr. X; the man who comes to claim my life. Can I save myself before he demands my heart?
~ Gypsy Brothers Series: Parts 1-3 (Lili St. Germain): Six years ago, Juliette Portland was viciously attacked and left for dead by people she trusted. People inside her father’s motorcycle club, greedy for power, who defiled her, shot her father dead and destroyed everything she ever cared about. Only, she didn't die. She survived ... and now, she's out for revenge.
~ Overwhelmed By You (Nashoda Rose): I don’t deserve her, but I’m selfish and I’m taking her anyway. This is who I am and it’s too late to change me.
~ Owned (M. Never):
"I like you collared, baby. I like you naked, I like you mine.”
Ellie Stevens has lusted over Kayne Roberts since he first walked into the import/export company she works for a little over a year ago. She kept a safe distance from the man with the majestic blue eyes - until temptation finally gets the better of her.
~ Breathe (C.D. Reiss):
He was the dream I never knew I had until he claimed me. The kinky billionaire who wanted to give pain as much as I wanted to receive it. He’d marked me as his own and I accepted him. I trust him completely. I swear I do.
But, now things are getting complicated. I have a career, and he has his claim. How far is he going to go to mark me? And am I going to run or stay?
~ Epiphany (Gemma James):
He haunts her in her dreams, but she’s never laid eyes on him. Until now.
~ His Witness (Vanessa Waltz): He kidnapped me.He was charming, powerful, intoxicating. Accepting his advances might be the last mistake I'd ever make. Now I'm trapped in his basement, completely at his mercy.
~ Love The Way You Lie (Skye Warren): I'll do anything to stay free, even if it means taking my clothes off for strangers. So I dance, hiding under the shadows and bright lights. Then I see him in the audience, and I know my past isn't the only thing I need to run from... ~ Irrevocable (Skye Callahan): I remembered! They stripped me of my life but never my will to survive. Descending into their darkness and making it my own became my only escape.
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Authors Clarissa Wild
Clarissa Wild is a New York Times & USA Today Bestselling author, best known for the dark Romance novel Mr. X. Her novels include the Fierce Series, the Delirious Series, and Stalker. She is also a writer of erotic romance such as the Blissful Series, The Billionaire's Bet series, and the Enflamed Series. She is an avid reader and writer of sexy stories about hot men and feisty women. Her other loves include her furry cat friend and learning about different cultures. In her free time she enjoys watching all sorts of movies, reading tons of books and cooking her favorite meals.
Website | Amazon | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter | Fan Club
Lili St. Germain
Lili writes dark, disturbing romance. Her USA Today bestselling Gypsy Brothers series focuses on a morally bankrupt biker gang and the girl who seeks her vengeance upon them. The Cartel series is a prequel trilogy of full-length novels that explores the beginnings of the club, to be released worldwide in print and ebook in 2015 by HarperCollins.
Lili quit corporate life to focus on writing and so far is loving every minute of it. Her other loves in life include her gorgeous husband and beautiful daughter, good coffee, Tarantino movies and spending hours on Pinterest.
She loves to read almost as much as she loves to write.
Website | Amazon | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter
Nashoda Rose
Nashoda Rose is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. She writes contemporary romance with a splash of darkness, or maybe it's a tidal wave. When she isn't writing, she can be found sitting in a field reading with her dog at her side, while her horses graze nearby. She loves interacting with her readers and chatting about her addiction--books.
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M. Never M. NEVER RESIDES IN NEW York City. When she's not researching ways to tie up her characters in compromising positions, you can usually find her at the gym kicking the crap out of a punching bag, or eating at some new trendy restaurant. She has a dependence on sushi and a fetish for boots. Fall is her favorite season. She is surrounded by family and friends she wouldn't trade for the world and is a little in love with her readers. The more the merrier. So make sure to say hi!Website | Amazon | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter
C.D. Reiss CD Reiss is a USA Today and Amazon bestseller. She still has to chop wood and carry water, which was buried in the fine print. Her lawyer is working it out with God but in the meantime, if you call and she doesn't pick up, she's at the well, hauling buckets. Born in New York City, she moved to Hollywood, California to get her master's degree in screenwriting from USC. In case you want to know, that went nowhere, but it did give her a big enough ego to write novels. Critics have dubbed the books "poetic," "literary," and "hauntingly atmospheric," which is flattering enough for her to put it in a bio, but embarrassing enough for her not to tell her husband, or he might think she's some sort of braggart who's too good to chop a cord of wood. If you meet her in person, you should call her Christine.Website | Amazon | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter
Gemma JamesGemma James is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of a blend of genres, from new adult suspense to dark erotic romance. She loves to explore the darker side of human nature in her fiction, and she's morbidly curious about anything dark and edgy, from deviant sex to serial killers. Readers have described her stories as being "not for the faint of heart."
She warns you to heed their words! Her playground isn't full of rainbows and kittens, though she likes both. She lives in Oregon with her husband and their four children--three rambunctious UFC/wrestling-loving boys and one girl who steals everyone's attention.
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Vanessa WaltzMy name is Vanessa and steamy, bad boy romances with headstrong alpha males are my trade. Feel free to drop me a line at waltzbooks@gmail.com. Join my newsletter here for discounts, information on new releases, and more!
Website | Amazon | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter
Skye Warren
Skye Warren is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of dark romance. Her books are raw, sexual and perversely tender. For those new to her work, consider the bestseller Wanderlust, Prisoner or the Dark Nights series starting with Trust in Me.
Website | Amazon | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter
Skye Callahan
Skye Callahan is the bestselling author of Irrevocable a dark romance that ran away with her emotions and led her on a whole new writing journey. She enjoys exploring the darker sides of life through her fiction, whether through paranormal creatures or the depraved underbelly of human nature. Her other works include the follow up to Irrevocable, Bend Don't Break, The Redline Series, The Fractured Legacy Series, and Bound and Unbroken.
Her love of reading and writing started at a young age and she has been blessed with a family that continues to support her dreams to be a full-time writer. She has lived in Ohio all of her life, where she enjoys taking long walks through cemeteries with her husband (when the insane Ohio weather permits), studying local history, and trying to make peace with the neighbor's cats.
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September 20, 2015
Boxset Blast: Possessed: The Complete Series Boxed Set by Coco Cadence
TITLE – Possessed: The Complete Series Boxed Set SERIES – Possessed AUTHOR – Coco Cadence GENRE – Erotic Romance PUBLICATION DATE – July 21st 2015 LENGTH – 404 Kindle Pages PUBLISHER – Coco Cadence COVER ARTIST – Clarissa Wild’s Booming Covers
Book Synopsis The complete POSSESSED series, now available in one bundle!
Possessed - Part OneMy boss is an asshole.
I’d take off my heels and throw them at his face, if they weren’t so expensive.
Why? Because my boss, the sexy, billionaire bad boy Leo King, wants me to be his wife.
That’s right. His wife. Except, it isn’t real. It’s all pretend so his family believes it, and I’m supposed to go along with it.
Asshole doesn’t even begin to describe him, and it’s only going to get worse. Especially because his cocky attitude and sudden interest in my private life make it difficult to concentrate on something other than his sexual innuendos. I always do what he wants, and we both know it. It’s not like I have a choice. Agree or get fired.
I’m going to need a drink … Or twenty.
Possessed - Part TwoI thought it couldn't get any worse when my boss, the billionaire bad boy Leo King, blackmailed me into becoming his fake wife. Turns out he has secrets up his sleeve that put a whole new spin on the word douchebag.
Not only did he put my job on the line, my heart has now also become his playground. He seduced me once, but I refuse to fall for his lies again.
If only I had enough chocolate to distract me from his sexy presence. Something tells me he won't give up the fight to claim me again.
Is he really only into one-night stands or is he lying to get into my pants? Only one way to find out ... Time to buy more booze.
Possessed Part ThreeMy boss, the billionaire bad boy Leo King, not only tricked me into being his fake-wife, but the dirty secret he's been keeping from me is now also exposed.
I can't believe I fell for his lies, and worse, I still want him. He says he loves me, but does that fix everything?
The joke is on me. His crazily hot presence is impossible for me to deny. Fighting temptation or risking it all; the choice is simple, but the consequences are tough.
However, when new revelations threaten to break us apart, there is only one thing I can do: Stock up on chocolate and sit this fucker out until the end.
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Coco Cadence is an erotic romance writer, who loves cocky heroes and smartass heroines. She adores happy ever after's as much as her fans do, and she will never stop writing them. In her free time she enjoys reading a good book, playing with her cute dogs, and spending quality time with her soon-to-be husband, but you can always find her drifting off into her mind to think of new stories.
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Cover Reveal: Eyes Wide Open by Lucy Felthouse @cw1985
BOOK INFORMATION TITLE – Eyes Wide Open SERIES – Totally Five Star AUTHOR – Lucy Felthouse GENRE – M/M/F BDSM Erotic Romance PUBLICATION DATE – 22nd September LENGTH – 68,358 Words PUBLISHER – Totally Bound Publishing COVER ARTIST – Posh Gosh
BOOK SYNOPSIS An ordinary girl catapulted into an extraordinary world meets two even more extraordinary men—but what will she do when she discovers their sexy secret? Fiona Gillespie moved to London shortly after graduating to take advantage of the opportunities the capital could offer. However, months later, she’s still living in a horrid flat and working in a grimy East End pub. The problem is, she doesn’t really know what she wants to do, career-wise. So when she happens upon an advertisement for a job at a plush Mayfair hotel, she jumps at the chance. A great deal of determination and a spot of luck land Fiona her dream role. But working at the Totally Five Star London is just the beginning. She adores the role and flourishes, impressing her bosses and making her increasingly determined to climb the career ladder. While her career is flying, though, her love life is non-existent. She hasn’t even thought about men, never mind met or dated one for months, so when she bumps into two gorgeous businessmen in the hotel, she’s surprised to find her head has been well and truly turned. Even more surprisingly, they flirt with her—both of them! She’s drawn to James and Logan, despite feeling that they’re way out of her league. When a misunderstanding leads Fiona to James and Logan’s sumptuous top-floor suite, she has no idea what she’s about to uncover. Scenes of people-trafficking, drug-pushing and wild sex parties all appear in her active imagination. Yet what she actually sees is something she’d never even considered before, something that piques her interest. After discovering their sexy secret, what will she do with this new-found knowledge? Reader Advisory: This book contains scenes of anal play, spanking, sex toys and bondage. BUY & TBR LINKS iTUNES GOODREADS
AUTHOR BIO Lucy Felthouse is a very busy woman! She writes erotica and erotic romance in a variety of subgenres and pairings, and has over 100 publications to her name, with many more in the pipeline. These include several editions of Best Bondage Erotica, Best Women's Erotica 2013 and Best Erotic Romance 2014. Another string to her bow is editing, and she has edited and co-edited a number of anthologies, and also edits for a small publishing house. She owns Erotica For All, is book editor for Cliterati, and is one eighth of The Brit Babes. Find out more at http://www.lucyfelthouse.co.uk. Join her on Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to her newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/gMQb9 AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE WEBSITE FACEBOOK TWITTER GOOGLE+ PINTEREST NETWORKED BLOGS BLOGLOVIN GOODREADS NEWSLETTER This Cover Reveal Was Organized & Hosted By:
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September 18, 2015
Book Blast: Malibu Angel by Mia Fox @MiaFoxBooks
BOOK INFORMATION TITLE – Malibu Angel SERIES – Guardian Angel AUTHOR – Mia Fox GENRE – paranormal/contemporary romance PUBLICATION DATE – June 27, 2015 LENGTH (Pages/# Words) - 212 pages PUBLISHER – Evatopia Press COVER ARTIST – Evatopia Media
BOOK SYNOPSIS All Sam wants is to serve out his time as a guardian angel so that he can return as a human. But his sentence becomes more complicated when he finds himself falling in love with Angeline, his current assignment.
The rules of angels specify that he may not interfere with the course of her life, which naturally includes her dating choices. When Angeline begins surf lessons at the same beach where Sam is assigned to work as a lifeguard, a connection forms between them and the rules of angels collide with the laws of attraction. Sam finds it even harder to keep his distance when he discovers Angeline’s surf instructor hides a dangerous secret.
With Angeline’s life in jeopardy, the lines between his role as a lifeguard and that of guardian angel become blurred. Sam’s choices will redefine his role as a guardian angel to Angeline and force him to contemplate what will become of their love if he is sent away. Whether they find their way back to each other is a question written in the heavens.
BUY & TBR LINKSAMAZON KINDLE US AMAZON KINDLE CA AMAZON KINDLE UK AMAZON PAPERBACK BARNES & NOBLES NOOK BARNES & NOBLES PAPERBACK SMASHWORDS ITUNES GOODREADS
EXCERPTAngeline gave a noticeable pout. “I’ve been riding the kiddie waves all week. I was really hoping to test out what I’ve learned...but as I said, my instructor seems to be AWOL. Hey, do you think you could take me?”
Sam looked up to the tower at Evan, unsure how to proceed. He would have done anything to say yes right on the spot, but that would certainly get him into trouble. Then again, to send her out alone was irresponsible and could endanger her safety. Knowing exactly how Sam’s mind was playing a game of angel versus devil, Evan shook his head slightly to which Sam rolled his eyes at his new friend, but nodded recognition nonetheless.
“I’d love to, really I would. But, I’m on duty.”
“Oh, of course. That was silly of me. Hey, I’m sorry I bothered you,” Angeline said as she started to turn away from the tower.
“You’re not a bother. Come by anytime. I’ve got sandwiches!” he called out as she headed back down the beach.
Evan smirked at him. “I’ve got sandwiches? Now that’s an original pick-up line.”
Sam ran a hand through his golden hair. “Tell me I didn’t I really say that.”
“Just wondering...did that kind of line work when you were alive?”
Sam smiled in spite of his embarrassment. “Actually, girls found me to be quite cute and charming.”
As if validating his point, Angeline looked over her shoulder at Sam, but seeing him still watching her, she immediately turned back and continued walking to her spot on the beach.
Evan raised his eyes skyward. “Trouble. That’s all I’m gonna say.”
Placing his arms behind his head and leaning back against the lifeguard tower, Sam surveyed his domain over the pristine Malibu beach, taking in the sun, surf, and the beautiful swaying of Angeline’s hips. “That’s the type of trouble that makes life...and the afterlife...worth living.”
AUTHOR BIO Mia Fox is a Los Angeles-based novelist who writes across varied genres including Contemporary and Paranormal Romance, Chick Lit, and Satire. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications from U.S.C.
Before writing full time, she worked as an entertainment publicist, a career she chronicles in her novel, “Alert the Media.” However, she is happy to leave that world behind her, preferring that any drama in her life is only that which she creates for her characters.
She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, three children, Casey, the Wonder Westie, and Bean, his brother.
AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKSAMAZON AUTHOR PAGE WEBSITE / BLOG FACEBOOK TWITTER GOOGLE+ PINTEREST TUMBLR GOODREADS SHELFARI WATTPAD BOOKTROPOLOUS SOCIAL
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Book Blast: Imperfect Love by Isabella White @erichb3
Imperfect Love
The 4Ever Series
Book One
Isabella White
Publisher: Fire Quill Publishing
Release Date: July 2015
ISBN: 978-0-9946536-3-5
Book Description:
At 24 years old, Holly Scallenger has the perfect life. Everything a girl could want; a beautiful man, a stunning home, as well as being in the midst of preparing for the wedding of her dreams. This all vanishes the night she catches her fiancé, Brandon Morgan, in bed with her worst nightmare, Donna Sinclair, just a week before Holly is set to walk down the aisle.
Attempting to recover from his betrayal, Holly swears off the affections of men in order to pick up the pieces of her crumbling life. Unfortunately, meeting Jake 'Hooligan' Peters is not part of her plan. The tall, dark-haired and handsome as hell med student, sweeps Holly away from the pain of her past and reveals to her the bright future that lays ahead. That is, until she falls pregnant just as Jake begins his internship at P and E; his family's hospital.
Will this love at first sight lead her to the fairytale she has always craved? Or, will she fall victim to a betrayal of the heart yet again?
Holly climbed out of the plush chair and gingerly walked across the soft carpet. Grasping the metal handle, she opened the closet door with a flourish and pulled out the suitcase. Flapping it open, she began arranging all her clothes haphazardly. Lucky for her, it was a big suitcase. When she’d bought it, she knew the size would come in handy one day; she just never thought that it would be used for this.
Pausing in her frantic packing, she fell back onto the white carpet, letting her hair swirl around her, reflecting the tornado of emotions swirling inside her. How could he have done this to her? They’d had so many dreams. They could have been such a great couple, if he would have just kept his dick in his pants. Heaven knew she loved Brandon, but she refused to marry Donna, too.
Tears began streaming down her cheeks, leaving a hot path that burned into her very soul. She inhaled deeply, trying not to lose it as she pushed her hair back. She knew that as soon as his Audi pulled into the driveway, he was going to start with his begging again. Especially now; a week before the big day.
She had to stand her ground. She owed it to herself, and deserved so much more than a two-timing whore! Yes, if women were called whores when they did it, men could be labeled in the same manner.
Suddenly, her phone began buzzing frantically. As she looked at the polished glass screen, a beautiful picture of him and her smiling greeted her. Damn... they looked so happy.
Isabella White was born and raised in South Africa, where she still lives with her husband and two beautiful little girls. She always knew she was going to be a writer, but it only started to really happen about four years ago. In her free time―if she gets any because moms don’t really have free time―she loves to spend it with friends, whether it’s a girls night out, or just watching a movie. She’s a very chilled person.
Her writing career started with Firebolt, book one in the Dragonian series under the pen name of Adrienne Woods. Her other series, Dream Casters, will be released mid 2015. She also writes in different genres, The Pregnancy Diaries, You and Me 4Ever has a total of 3 novels. More to come in the Pregnancy Diaries soon. And then, she has a paranormal series by the name of the Aswang series, which will consist of about ten novels. And if that wasn’t enough, there is another series, Guardians of Monsters, which will be released in 2016. Both novels are written under another pen name called Kristen Ping.
September 17, 2015
Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Saga by J.A. Campbell @jacampbellauth @sparklebooktours
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Saga: Legends of the Travelers Book #1 by J.A. Campbell Audience: Young Adult 12+, Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, horses, Format: ebook Publisher: Untold Press, Cover by: Sean Hayden, Untold Press, Pages: 196, ASIN: B012236VMS, Date Published: Aug 17 2015
Taken from her people as a foal, Saga is plunged into a world completely foreign to her. All Travelers know other worlds exist, but they don’t expect to actually experience them until they are adults. Saga must learn to adapt to her new surroundings if she wants to survive until she’s old enough to be able to Travel among worlds and return to her people. Jarl is the son of the Vanir High Mages and heir to the throne. Though young, his parents entrust him with the care and training of the captured Traveler foal. However, none of the Vanir understand just how intelligent the Travelers are and they may have given Jarl more than he can handle.
When Saga escapes, the High Mages decide she is too much trouble and has to be killed. Jarl defies his parents and goes after her. Will they remain enemies when Jarl finds her, or will they form a bond of friendship strong enough to save Saga’s life?
"My Prince, High Mage Nessa sent me to fetch you." Jarl considered ignoring the servant. He was in the middle of a great battle with a couple of the other mage children and he wanted to test his catapult. If Jarl sent him away, he knew his parents, the high mages, wouldn't be pleased. The thought of actually having to do chores, even if only for a week, was distasteful. They had servants for a reason, after all.
Jarl sighed and waved at his friends before acknowledging the servant. The boy wasn't much older than him, and wore plain brown as all the servants did. He looked up hopefully from the ground, briefly meeting Jarl's eyes, before remembering his place and casting his gaze to the ground again.
That breach of etiquette could get the boy flogged, and perhaps Jarl would save him greater punishment later if he had him whipped now. It was only a lash when you met the eyes of a son or daughter of a great mage or noble. The twenty required if you dared to look into the eyes of one of the mages would probably kill the boy. Jarl decided it was too much trouble and ignored the eye contact.
"Where?"
"Their private rooms."
Jarl's stomach sank. Maybe they'd found out about the prank he and Conor had played on Cook. It hadn't been nice, putting cheese crumbs in her favorite apron and leaving it where the rats could get to it, but she was mean. She'd been head cook for as long as anyone could remember and made the most amazing pies, which was probably why his father tolerated her disrespectful attitude.
Jarl nodded and headed across the well-manicured grounds toward the castle. Built with magic and stone, the castle towered above him. Banners flapped from the battlements, snapping in the breeze that didn't reach down into the walled grounds.
One of the side entrances was closest and, once inside, he dashed into the servants' ways. He wasn't supposed to run through the narrow hallways and grand corridors because a ruler's son was always composed and regal. He could get away with it in the dank servants' ways though, as long as he wasn't out of breath when he arrived.
In good shape, Jarl could run forever like the dire wolves that hunted the northern mountains. It was completely permissible for Jarl to run outside and he loved the feeling of freedom that it gave him. One day he would be permitted beyond the confines of the castle and would race all over his world.
Those musings kept him occupied until he ran out of back ways to dash through. He stopped and took a few deep breaths to calm his racing heart, made sure his clothing wasn't disheveled, and then stepped into the opulent hallway that led to his parents' suites. The thick blue carpeting muffled his footfalls and he felt the eyes of the guards stationed periodically through the hallway on his back. When he boldly looked at them however, none seemed to have moved a muscle, not even to twist their eyes and look at him. The guards wore dark green livery emblazoned with the crystal and the griffin. Only mages wore blue. Even mages in training couldn't wear blue until they reached the first order.
Jarl reached the heavy oak doors carved with the ever-present griffin and crystal symbols. The guards ignored him and he knocked on the door. An attendant inside opened it for him. Jarl hurried through the outer receiving room, well used to its ornate decorations and elegantly carved furniture. Blue dominated the room. Mostly bare except for some comfortable furniture for lounging and tables and lamps for reading. The private room beyond contrasted sharply. The tapestry and the picture of Jarl and his mother were the only decorations.
His parents sat at the table reading. They both looked at him when he entered, and Jarl tried not to act guilty.
"Your hair is sticking up. I do believe you have a leaf in it." His mother sounded stern, but he could see a glint of amusement in her eyes.
"Sorry, Mother." He ran a hand through his short curls and pulled the offending leaf out of his hair. Then he held it awkwardly, not knowing what to do with it.
"Oh, throw it in the fireplace and come here." She smiled and stood. Jarl did as he was told and hugged his mother tightly.
His father stood. "How are you today, son?"
"Fine, Father. What can I do for you?" At only ten, the formality was hard for Jarl, but he did try.
"We have a surprise for you."
Jarl's heart lightened. They hadn't heard about the cheese! He couldn't understand how though, as Cook had raised a huge fuss when she'd found her rat-chewed apron.
"Yes, Father?"
A slight smile creased his father's face at the eagerness in his voice. Jarl had tried to contain it, but he loved good surprises. The smile made him even happier, slight as it was. Geraint Ilmarinen was not a man used to smiling.
"If you're good, and you master that spell you've been struggling with, you'll find out tonight. Meet us in the stables an hour after dinner."
Jarl's heart sank again, but only a little. He almost had that spell down. Requiring concentration on two different components at once, thus far he'd managed to fail at the last minute every time.
"Yes, Father."
"Go practice, Jarl. We'll forgive you if you need to miss your dinner." His mother's smile appeared more often, but still he treasured it. He grinned back at her.
"Yes, Mother. If I may be excused?" Having permission to skip dinner meant he could send a servant for food and avoid having to dress nicely and all that stuff he hated about court.
"Of course."
He gave a quick bow and, unable to contain his excitement, he ran from the room.
"Walk!" The tolerant reprimand followed him out the door and he forced himself to slow once he reached the public hallway.
It didn't take long for him to arrive at the practice room, and he set to work on the spell with renewed enthusiasm.
∞ ∞ ∞
It took him several hours, and he almost forgot to eat the dinner that the servant brought for him, but Jarl finally got the spell to work. For all the effort, it was a relatively simple result. He was supposed to take a regular candle and make it burn with a green flame. Lighting the candle with magic was simple enough. However, altering the components of the wick to make it burn green wasn't as easy. Jarl could have cast a simple illusion on the flame, but that wasn't the point of the exercise. Supposedly, once you could perform the spell reliably with a candle, and then other fires, you would be able to apply the principles to much more complicated and powerful works of magic.
Jarl, now able to focus on something other than the magic singing through his veins, distantly heard the bell toll seven times. He was late! He should have left for the stables twenty minutes ago. He hastily grabbed a fresh candle, along with the one he'd managed to craft the spell on, and slipped into the servants' ways so he could run. His parents would understand. They always did when magic was involved, however he didn't want to keep them waiting, or they might decide he hadn't mastered the spell in time.
He hadn't even had time to wonder about the surprise. He thought it might be a horse of his very own since they were meeting in the stables. He could ride any horse he wanted—as long as it wasn't one of the hunting or warhorses. To have one of his very own seemed special. It also meant his father might start taking him out into the countryside more. Jarl felt confined, like he was missing out on life, since he mostly had to stay on castle grounds until he went off to school in a few years. Those with magical talent had to be protected until they could protect themselves. Shadow creatures called Ovattr hunted mages, very effectively. Now and again, a body would be returned to the castle, or the Mage School, torn by claw and tooth. The treacherous Alfar created the creatures long ago to destroy the human mages.
Jarl forced himself to walk when he reached the door leading from the servants' ways to the outer courtyards. Though still light out at this time of year, the oppressive heat of the day had lifted, and a light breeze dried the sweat dampening his hair. A seabird cried out, circling overhead, seeming to mock Jarl for running late. In his impatience, Jarl ended up half jogging when he wasn't in view of the stables, and walking as properly as he could when he knew his parents might see him. Liveried guards stood outside the main doors, the green contrasting nicely with the stone that made up the front of the stables. They didn't so much as glance at Jarl. Still, he imagined he could feel their eyes on him as he scooted passed their forbidding presence. The statue-like guards had always unnerved him, though he worked hard not to let it show.
Airy and open, the stables smelled of horse and dust and sweet hay. A dapple-gray that Jarl occasionally rode nickered when he saw the boy. Jarl smiled and scratched the horse on the nose before heading deeper into the large building.
A high-pitched angry squeal, followed by the thump of hooves against a wooden stall, startled him. By the time most horses made it into the stables, they were quiet. The horses in training and the warhorses were kept elsewhere.
A bucket crashed to the ground. Jarl heard other angry thumps and squeals, and he thought he heard the ghost of a voice screaming: Let me go!
J.A. Campbell
Julie has been many things over the last few years, from college student, to bookstore clerk and an over the road trucker. She’s worked as a 911 dispatcher and in computer tech support, but through it all she’s been a writer and when she’s not out riding horses, she can usually be found sitting in front of her computer. She lives in Colorado with her three cats, her vampire-hunting dog Kira, her new horse and Traveler-in training, Triska, and her Irish Sailor.She is the author of many Vampire and Ghost-Hunting Dog stories and the young adult fantasy series Tales of the Travelers. She’s a member of the Horror Writers Association and the Dog Writers of America Association and the editor for Steampunk Trails fiction magazine.
Website: www.writerjacampbell.com
Blogs: http://writerjacampbell.wordpress.com/blog/
http://phoenixfirewolf.livejournal.com/
Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Amazon
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
I didn’t actually know I could be an author, or I probably would have chosen that career path earlier in life. I wanted to be a paleontologist.
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
I first considered myself a writer when I started writing seriously with the intent of being published. I considered myself an author when I published my first story.
How long did it take to get your first book published?
Five years.
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
I’m a trainer for Green Ride Colorado, an airport shuttle company.
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
Saga, Legends of the Travelers book 1. A boy and a young Traveler (horse-like being) form an unlikely friendship and then fight for their very survival.
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
Untold Press
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
Four or five months.
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
I write young adult fantasy. The sequel to Saga is complete and should be out sometime next year. You’ll see some urban fantasy from me as well in the very near future.
What genre would you place your books into?
Young adult fantasy
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
There was never any question that I’d be writing fantasy and science fiction. It’s what I love to read. The young adult thing happened because I enjoy telling stories about younger main characters so it evolved naturally from that.
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?
Probably Saga. She’s really entertaining to write.
How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?
No one really inspired me to write. I just started doing it when I was really young.
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
I can write anywhere as long as I have something to write with. When I’m at home, I’m usually at my desk with some music on random (no, I don’t do play lists).
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
Usually. If I know about them.
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?
Usually the title follows the book. Every once in a while the idea and the title come at the same time. I can’t think of a time when the title came first.
How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?
I take a look at my characters’ culture and try to find appropriate names and place names to reflect that based on earth cultures. I also use behindthename.com a lot.
Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?
Names usually come last.
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
Some of it comes as I go along. Some of it evolves from what the story needs, some of it I come up with right away.
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..")
Well, I do like to write about strong friendships.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
Mass market paperback.
What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once?
One favorite...this is an impossible question. One of my favorite series is the Green Rider series and yes, I’ve read them more than once.
Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?
Sometimes they do. Favorite, probably The Last Star Fighter. Worst...there are so many.
Your favorite food is?
Pizza
Your favorite singer/group is?
Don’t have one.
Your favorite color is?
Black and Purple
Your favorite Author is?
Timothy Zahn 
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September 16, 2015
Book Blast: Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend by Cheryl Carpinello @ccarpinello
BOOK INFORMATION TITLE – Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend SERIES – Book I of Guinevere trilogy-A Quest Book AUTHOR – Cheryl Carpinello GENRE – Middle Grade Arthurian Legend PUBLICATION DATE – April 2009 LENGTH - 122 Pages PUBLISHER – Beyond Today Educator COVER ARTIST – Kaytalin Platt; Rita Toews
Book Synopsis Finalist Pre-Teen Literature: Dan Poynter's 2011 Global Ebook Awards. At the dawn of Camelot, one young girl is about to take her place beside the greatest king in England's history. She is a mere child of twelve. But in these medieval days, this is the age when childish things must be put away and greater responsibilities accepted--all in preparation for a betrothal of marriage. For young Lady Guinevere, on the advent of her thirteenth Birth Day, the whole idea is quite unbearable. After all, what could be better than spending her youth playing with her best friend Cedwyn, roaming the grounds around the castle looking for mythical creatures or hunting rabbits? However, the wizard Merlyn--her teacher and friend--knows that destiny has a way of catching up with a person. His arrival sets in motion a series of events that will lead Guinevere to her destiny whether she is ready for it or not. BUY & TBR LINKS AMAZON KINDLE US AMAZON KINDLE CA AMAZON KINDLE UK AMAZON PAPERBACK BARNES & NOBLES SMASHWORDS ITUNES GOODREADS SHELFARI EXCERPT “Why have we run away from home?” “My Father the King and apparently Merlyn have decided that I am to marry King Arthur in two years and become his Queen. I’ll have to leave the castle, my home, you, and everything I’ve grown up with,” she added, not realizing that Cedwyn was staring at her with his mouth wide open. “He even promised Grandfather’s round table to King Arthur. All without asking!” She finished, sure that she had stated her point clearly. Her eyes strayed to the hand that Arthur had kissed. Quickly she averted them. “Are you sure they said King Arthur?” “Oh yes! I’m sure.” “That’s fantastic! He’s gonna be a great king! He’s gonna bring all of England together. I heard some of the knights talking about him last night. They said that he is the bravest and best warrior they have ever seen. And the smartest!” He looked at Guinevere and shook his head. “And you are gonna be his Queen!” Disbelief washed over him. “I wish someone would make a decision like that for me!” “Really? Then you can marry King Arthur!” she said, standing up and stamping her foot. Then she turned and stomped up the rise.
AUTHOR BIO I am a retired high school English teacher. A devourer of books growing up, my profession introduced me to writings and authors from times long past. Through my studies and teaching, I fell in love with the Ancient and Medieval Worlds. Now, I hope to inspire young readers and those Young-at-Heart to read more through my Quest Books set in these worlds. AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE WEBSITE ADVENTURE QUEST WEBSITE BLOG FACEBOOK FACEBOOK PAGE TWITTER GOOGLE+ PINTEREST GOODREADS SHELFARI LINKEDIN FREADO BUBLISH This Event Was Organized & Hosted By:
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Cover Reveal: The Second Wife by Kishan Paul @kishan_paul
TITLE - The Second Wife AUTHOR - Kishan Paul RELEASE DATE - October 14, 2015 GENRE - Suspense/Thriller LENGTH - 80,000 words COVER ARTIST - Syneca Fetherstone
BOOK SYNOPSISIf you want to live, you must let go of the past... Twenty-eight-year-old Psychologist, Alisha Dimarchi, is abducted by an obsessed client and imprisoned in his Pakistani compound for over two years. Forced to change her name and live as his second wife, her life is filled with trauma and heartbreak. Thrust into a world of violence and oppression, Alicia must fight not only to keep herself alive but to protect the lives of the people she now considers family. At night, she retreats into her memories of the only man she has ever loved – a man she believes no longer loves her.
Thirty-two-year-old handsome surgeon, David Dimarchi, has spent the last two years mourning the disappearance of his wife. After a painful and isolated existence, he begins the process of healing. It is then that he is visited by a stranger, who informs him that his wife is very much alive and needs his help. In a desperate attempt to save her, David enlists the help of a Delta Force Operative. Together they find themselves in the center of more than just a rescue mission. Will he be able to reach her in time and if he does, will she still want him?
BUY & TBR LINKSAMAZON KINDLE US: PRE-ORDER GOODREADS
AUTHOR BIO From daring escapes by tough women to chivalrous men swooping in to save the day, the creativity switch to Kishan Paul’s brain is always in the “on” position. If daydreaming stories were a college course, Kish would have graduated with honors.
Mother of two beautiful children, she has been married to her best friend for over seventeen years. With the help of supportive family and friends, she balances her family, a thriving counseling practice, and writing without sinking into insanity.
Her novel, Blind Love, is currently available through most major ebook sites and through Samhain Publications.
AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKSWEBSITE FACEBOOK TWITTER TSU PINTEREST AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE NEWSLETTER
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September 15, 2015
Cover Reveal: We Shouldn't And Yet... by Stephanie Witter @StephanieR76
Title: We Shouldn't And Yet... Author: Stephanie Witter Standalone novel (over 85 000 words) Category/Genre: sexy Adult Contemporary Romance Release Date: November 2015 Add We Shouldn't And Yet... to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25491715-we-shouldn-t-and-yet BLURB: What happens when you’re attracted to the wrong person?
AIDEEN
I didn't expect to feel so drawn to my best friend’s father when I first meet him. It’s unexplainable and most of all, it’s unexpected. He drinks too much, is rough around the edges, and is so obviously into casual sex and nothing more, but there’s just something about him that calls out to me. I’ve thought my heart was battered beyond repair, but maybe I have been wrong.
"There was something so sexual, so carnal, so intense in the way Jensen looked at me.’’
JENSEN
She is my son’s best friend and I know he wants more, but I can't help it. Whenever she is around or her name is mentioned I’m turned on. I’m not used to denying myself to feeling so strongly for a woman so young, but she gets me. I can’t do a damn thing to stop these feelings. No amount of alcohol helps. I didn’t think it could be possible to feel so drawn to a woman, but it looks like I have been dead wrong.
"I want her to want me just as madly as I do her.’’
They shouldn’t and yet…
They can’t resist each other.
*Warning! This book is for readers over 18 due to the frequent drop of the f-bomb and explicit sex scenes.
About the author: Stephanie Witter is a French dreamer. She started learning English at three, and fell in love with the language. Always with a book, or two close by, she started reading in English when she couldn’t wait any longer for Harry Potter to be translated in French. After a while, reading wasn’t enough. She started writing Young Adult and New Adult Contemporary novels and PATCH UP is her first New Adult Contemporary novel. *
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Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Sins of Long Ago by Naomi Bellina @TheGoddessNaomi
Sins of Long Ago
Nocturne
Book 2
Naomi Bellina
Genre: Paranormal romance
Publisher: Liquid Silver Books
Date of Publication: 7/27/2015
ISBN: 9781622102372
ASIN: B01051ZNZU
Number of pages: 189
Word Count: 71,000
Book Description:
Werewolves and humans don't mix. Until danger forces an alliance and desire demands satisfaction.
Leading his pack of werewolves keeps Vincent plenty busy, and now with a predator out to harm them, life is more perilous than ever. The last thing he needs is a woman to complicate matters, especially one who sets his body and soul on fire. She's a human and a witch — totally the wrong woman for him. Even if he could take a mate for his own, he refuses to put her in the danger his life has become. No way can they ever be together. Werewolf-style love is fine anyway. No permanent partner, no bullshit, no heartache.
Genevieve has never known true love. Cursed by an enraged woman long ago, females in her family are doomed to go insane if they fall in love. Life has been fine without a man around-- until a hot werewolf drops in and captures her heart. Though they have plenty of obstacles to overcome, Gen knows they can work past them. Tell that to Vincent, as he struggles with old pack rules about love, sex, and consorting with humans.
As Vincent searches for a killer, deals with death among his own, and tries to keep his hands off Gen, she attempts to end her family curse. Together, they must find a way to break free from the sins of long ago.
Heat level: 3 out of 4
Liquid Silver Books All Romance Amazon BN
Kobo Google Play iTunes Amazon UK
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
When I got my first payment. I couldn't believe it! A publisher gave me money to do something I loved. I'm pretty sure I went online shopping and spent those few dollars on a totally, ridiculously fun item.
How long did it take to get your first book published?
It took over a year to get my first little novella out into the world. Fortunately, I'm kind of stubborn, so I kept plugging away and submitting until I found the perfect publisher.
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
I'm a massage therapist, which is the perfect "evil day job." It's really not evil; I love my business and my clients and I have flexibility to write. If I have a break between clients, or someone cancels, I whip out my laptop and get to work.
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
Sins of Long Ago. Okay, here we go. I love doing these taglines.
Werewolves and humans don't mix. A psychic vet, a cursed witch, hot alpha werewolves. Danger stalks them, desire pulls them together. (I kind of cheated, it's twenty-one words. J)
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
I adore Liquid Silver Books. They've been fabulous to work with. I'm looking at self-publishing too and ideally, would like to be a hybrid author.
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
Too long! It really depends on the length of the book. Right now, I'm challenging myself to write faster. I want to have my current WIP done in another week or two. That means keeping my butt in the chair and fingers on the keyboard, and not getting distracted by squirrels. Which in my case, are Facebook and Etsy.
What genre would you place your books into?
Sins of Long ago is paranormal/suspense/action adventure. I'm writing a contemporary right now that takes place in Key Largo. Since I live in Florida, I decided to let readers enjoy my beautiful surroundings through this book.
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
Paranormal is such fun to write, because I can make up my own world and the rules in that world. There's nothing hotter than a wild man with a werewolf lurking just below the surface. I think romance blends well with action/adventure and I truly enjoy the challenge of weaving a suspenseful storyline into the romance.
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?
Right now, I'm in love with Vincent. That could be because I based a lot of him on my honey. He's so alpha, but deep down, has a tender heart longing for love. That love comes out when he's with Gen. Sometimes. Other times, they fuss at each other. Kind of like me and my true love. J
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
I do, good and bad. I learn from the bad ones, which I actually consider a critique. Unless they're just plain weird, and then I ignore them and move on.
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?
The title always pops up when I'm writing. I like to take a line from the book and make that the title. Seriously, my files are named "Book one", "Book two," etc., until the perfect name hits me.
How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?
I go to a baby name website for the characters. I make sure none of the names are too similar. Ideally, they won't even start with the same letter. I also research place names, because I don't want anyone to get offended if a lot of weird events happen in their town. Or to send me an email telling me I got the details wrong. I build my cities and towns in my mind, sometimes based on a real one, but cleverly disguised.
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
I start with a basic idea of what the character is like. They usually don't change too much, but they do morph a little, as I add more layers to their personality. Like, I'll give them some quirk that develops as I'm writing. Sometimes good, sometimes weird. That's one of the best parts about being an author, getting to see characters grow and turn into real people as I move through the book. And being in total control. Bwa-ha-ha!
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..")
Always, I want to celebrate strong women. It's so difficult these days, trying to be feminine and tough. But I believe it can be done, and my female characters are proof of that.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
Depends on my mood du jour. Sometimes I like holding an actual book, but since my honey often goes to sleep before me, having the light on in bed bothers him. So I cuddle up with my tablet under the covers and read. It feels like being sneaky and staying up past my bedtime.
Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?
Some of them do, some not. I always feel sorry for the authors whose books turn into crappy movies. I'm reading J. D. Robb books now, and would love to see one of those become a movie. I can't really say a favorite or worst, though I did enjoy seeing The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings on the big screen.
Your favorite food is?
That changes with my mood. These days, since it's so hot, I'm craving salads and veggies. But last night, after a couple of glasses of wine (okay, it was more like three and a half!), I really wanted ice cream. We stopped at a gas station on the way home from dinner and got a pint. Yum!
Your favorite color is?
Purple. It sings to me of creativity and imagination. There are so many beautiful shades of purple. I'm kind of a pen freak, and trust me, there is a lot of purple in my collection.
Naomi lives in sunny Florida with the love of her life and a magical calico cat. She writes for various fiction and non-fiction markets but is drawn to romance because her characters insist on canoodling and falling in love. So she lets them. Her interests include dancing, motorcycle riding, drumming and creating healthy meals. She takes the opportunity to play whenever possible.
Her motto: Never pass up the opportunity to have an adventure!
Visit her at http://www.naomibellina.com/
http://www.facebook.com/NaomiBellina
