Karen Swart's Blog, page 94

Book Blitz: The Way She Makes Me Feel by Pembroke Sinclair

 

The Way She Makes Me Feel

Pembroke Sinclair

Genre: romance

Publisher: eTreasures Publishing

Number of pages: 55

eTreasures Publishing

Book Description:

Drake Steng had it all: a professional football career, money, and looks. Finding women wasn't a problem, having a relationship was. He thought he found true love when he was 12, but as a boy, how was he to know? He never had the courage to find out, and she slipped from his grasp. When Evie walks back into his life years later, he gets a second chance to discover true love, but are Evie and Drake fated to be together or will he lose his courage and lose her again?

Short Excerpt:

She sat at the opposite side of the bar. Her blond hair hung in a ponytail, allowing me to see the edges of a tattoo on her right shoulder blade. She was out of place. The bar didn’t have a formal dress code, but women didn’t walk through the doors unless their make-up was just so and every hair in its right place. Their clothes were low cut, tight, and revealing—very little was left to the imagination.

Her manner of dress differed. She wasn’t slovenly or dirty, but her black tank top and faded jeans didn’t match the ambiance. She wasn't wearing any make-up. She didn’t seem to be overly concerned with attracting the attention of any of the athletes either. Most of the women giggled a little too loudly, their gazes scanning desperately around the room, hoping to contact with someone famous. They always seemed to be moving too, pacing back and forth in front of whoever needed to notice them.

About the Author:

In 2009, eTreasures Publishing published my first novel, a sci fi adventure story. Since then, they have published my two YA zombie novels, my religious zombie novella, two children’s picture books, and two novellas with romantic elements. I have an urban fantasy novel about dragons and a vampire novelette that was published by MuseItUp Publishing. Musa Publishing has published my novelette with romantic elements and a collection of short stories. I have a middle grade urban fantasy novel that was published by Little Devil Books. My nonfiction book about slasher films was published by Scarecrow Press.

Writing is my passion. I enjoy creating fantastic worlds and memorable characters. I’m an active promoter of my works and love to talk to readers at book signings and readings. Doing giveaways on Goodreads has been an exciting experience, and having contests for readers has been fun. I actively promote various authors on my blog and participate in blog tours to promote my own work.

I write under several different pen names. For my children’s titles, I write under J.D. Pooker, and for my YA and adult novels, I write under Pembroke Sinclair. My nonfiction work is done under my real name.

I am a member of the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers and am on a committee to create membership criteria for iPAL, which is a sister group to the Published Authors Liaison group and focuses on independent and self-published authors. I am also a member of the ALA and really enjoy doing library visits.

Blog: http://pembrokesinclair.blogspot.com/

Web: http://pembrokesinclair.com/#

Goodread: http://www.goodreads.com/Pembroke

Amazon Author Central

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/PembrokeSinclair

Book Blitz: Other Options by Pembroke Sinclair

 

Other Options
Pembroke Sinclair

Genre: romance

Publisher: Musa Publishing

Date of Publication: August 9, 2012

ISBN: 978-1-61937-326-6

ASIN: B008VMY514

Number of pages: 35

Word Count: 11,448

Cover Artist: Kelly Shorten

Amazon Musa Publishing

Book Description:

Eddie lost his love, but life is always full of other options.

Eddie has a great life with a loving wife and fabulous job. His work keeps him away from home for long stretches of time, but he counts down the moments until he gets to be back in his wife’s arms. He would do anything for her. Unfortunately, she doesn’t feel the same way, and plans on leaving Eddie for another man.

Feeling crushed and betrayed, Eddie has a hard time trusting women. He knows it’s unfair; he knows not every woman is as evil as his ex-wife, but he can’t deny his feelings. As an ice miner, he’s expected to spend months at a time on his ship. Much to his chagrin, he is forced to spend it with Rie. Will being trapped on a ship with a woman help Eddie get over his fear and hatred of women and move on with his life? Are there any other options?

Excerpt

Eddie stood at his locker, staring at the manila folder. He opened it for half a second before slamming it shut and heading for the command offices. He threw it onto Assignment Officer Diaz’s desk, who looked up at him from his paperwork, expressionless.

Eddie placed his fists on the desk and leaned forward. “I want Shaun Harris.”

Diaz grabbed the folder and flipped it back at him. “Harris is out on another mission. This is the best I could do.”

“I can’t do it.” Eddie pushed himself away from the desk and paced the room. “I can’t go out with a woman.”

Diaz leaned back in his chair and folded his hands over his stomach. “Rie Danalgo is highly capable.”

“I’m sure she’s more than capable, but that doesn’t change that she is a she,” Eddie spoke between gritted teeth and chopped his hand through the air to emphasize his point. “Do you know what I just went through? What I will be going through? I can’t trust ‘em. I can’t handle being around them. I might lose it. I might say something rude, and then I’m stuck with her for months. I filed the paperwork asking for Shaun, just like you asked me to.”

Diaz threw his hands out to his sides. “What do you want me to do? We’re short on personnel right now. Petroid’s expansion is growing exponentially faster than the manpower I have to oversee it. I read your request and did the best I could. This is the only assignment I have open right now. If I had any say in the matter, you wouldn't go out at all. You would stay landed until you got your crap together.”

Eddie stopped pacing in front of the desk. “What about a rookie expedition? Isn’t there one of those going out?”

Diaz leaned forward and punched a few keys on his keyboard. “Sorry. Everything’s booked.” He leaned back in his chair. “It’s only three months.”

Eddie snatched the folder off the desk and headed for the door.

“Hey,” Diaz stopped him before he walked out.

Eddie glanced at him over his shoulder.

“You have your medication? The shrink’s number?”

Eddie sighed and nodded curtly.

“Use them both. Everything will be fine. I know how hard this is for you. But, you know what? You’re not the first person to go through a divorce. It will be all right.” Diaz smiled, attempting to lighten the mood.

Eddie clenched his jaw and stepped out of the office, refraining from slamming the door behind him. Diaz was trying to be nice, to help him out during a difficult time, but the only thing that was truly going to help was a different shipmate.

 

In 2009, eTreasures Publishing published my first novel, a sci fi adventure story. Since then, they have published my two YA zombie novels, my religious zombie novella, two children’s picture books, and two novellas with romantic elements. I have an urban fantasy novel about dragons and a vampire novelette that was published by MuseItUp Publishing. Musa Publishing has published my novelette with romantic elements and a collection of short stories. I have a middle grade urban fantasy novel that was published by Little Devil Books. My nonfiction book about slasher films was published by Scarecrow Press.

Writing is my passion. I enjoy creating fantastic worlds and memorable characters. I’m an active promoter of my works and love to talk to readers at book signings and readings. Doing giveaways on Goodreads has been an exciting experience, and having contests for readers has been fun. I actively promote various authors on my blog and participate in blog tours to promote my own work.

I write under several different pen names. For my children’s titles, I write under J.D. Pooker, and for my YA and adult novels, I write under Pembroke Sinclair. My nonfiction work is done under my real name.

I am a member of the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers and am on a committee to create membership criteria for iPAL, which is a sister group to the Published Authors Liaison group and focuses on independent and self-published authors. I am also a member of the ALA and really enjoy doing library visits.

Blog: http://pembrokesinclair.blogspot.com/

Web: http://pembrokesinclair.com/#

Goodread: http://www.goodreads.com/Pembroke

Amazon Author Central

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/PembrokeSinclair

Character Interview with Max Deveraux from Hell’s Belle by Karen Greco

 

Today on the blog we have the very delicious Max Deveraux from Hell’s Belle. So ladies, time for some swooning.

Character Name: Max Deveraux

Character Bio: A native of Long Beach, California, Max Deveraux is a 10-year veteran of the FBI. He leads the FBI's gang task force training on the West Coast, and has authored two books on street violence.

Describe yourself what is your worst and best quality?

Being focused and driven allows me to excel at my job. Nina says that I am too rigid and inflexible, but I really don't see anything wrong with that. It's what's kept me alive.

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

I make really amazing barbecue ribs. It's all in the rub.

What is your biggest secret something no one knows about?

My parents were pretty entrenched in gang life when I was growing up. That's about as much of that story that I want to tell right now.

What are you most afraid of?

Being caught out without my gun.

What do you want more than anything?

Seriously, I don't want much. A roof over my head, a solid beer, some good waves to catch. That's ideal. I suppose a '58 Chevy would be pretty awesome.

What is your relationship status?

Let's just check off "it's complicated."

How would you describe your sense of fashion?

Would you call jeans and a tee-shirt fashion?

How much of a rebel are you?

I locked up my parents. I'd say that's pretty rebellious.

What do you considered to be your greatest achievement?

Being the top cop when it comes to gangs in the US. I worked my tail off to do it.

What is your idea of happiness?

A good wave and a better brew.

What is your current state of mind?

I'd love to say Zen, but I am too far from the Pacific Ocean to truly feel that way.

What is your most treasured possession?

My Von Sol board.

What is your most marked characteristic?

I am loyal to a fault.

What is it that you, most dislike?

I am not a fan of liars. If I can't trust someone, the relationship is not going to work.

Which living person do you, most despise?

There's a pretty long list of despicable people. Let's just say anyone who willfully does harm to another.

What is your greatest regret?

You can't live with regrets. We all make choices, and those choices are what define us. You have to own these choices, even the bad ones (especially the bad ones), but you can't regret them.

What is the quality you most like in a man?

Honesty. Reliability.

What is the quality you most like in a woman?

Pretty much the same. I need to know I can trust someone, and that they have my back.

Who is your favorite hero in fiction?

Jason Bourne.

Which living person do you most admire?

Anthony Bourdain, but I think I just want his job.

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

I would like to be a little bit less responsible. For example, I wanted to be a pro surfer, but I was too responsible, too worried about getting a "real" job. I always regret not giving it a shot.

What is your motto?

Live free or die surfing.

Remember to check out today’s spotlight to find out more about Max and his world.

Book Blitz and Giveaway: Hell’s Belle by Karen Greco

 

Hell's Belle

Karen Greco

Genre: Urban Fantasy

ISBN: 1484830202

ASIN: B00DEUDXH0

Number of pages: 238

Word Count: 74,722

Cover design by Robin Ludwig Design Inc.

Book Description:

Half-vampire, half-human, Nina Martinez spent most of her life underground as part of an elite secret team of government agents who quietly take down rogue monsters -- the human world none the wiser.

She moves back to her hometown of Providence, RI to keep an eye on the recent uptick in supernatural activity, and to help run the bar she co-owns with her aunt. Her attempt at a “regular” life, not to mention a budding relationship with smoking hot FBI agent Max, is cut short because of a string of ritual murders targeting the city's community of witches.

But Nina's investigation unearths deadly secrets from her long buried parents. Now the target of supernatural assassins, could Nina be the most dangerous vampire hybrid to ever exist? No wonder she can’t get a date.

An urban fantasy set in a decaying Providence, Rhode Island, HELL'S BELLE is a fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled roller-coaster ride through a city on the cusp of becoming an urban wasteland. An energetic, expansive, and cinematic, HELL'S BELLE was called "captivating" by Kirkus Reviews.

Book Chick City gave it 5-stars, calling it "one of the best urban fantasies I have read this year!"

Amazon

 

 

10 Ebook copies of Hell’s Belle By Karen Greco- either mobi or ePub, winners choice

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An award-winning playwright, Karen Greco has spent close to twenty years in New York City, working in publicity and marketing for the entertainment industry.

A life-long obsession with exorcists and Dracula drew her to urban fantasy, where she can decapitate characters with impunity. HELL'S BELLE is her first novel.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/karenThegreco

Blog: http://karengreco.blogspot.com/

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

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17858864-hell-s-belle

Author Interview with Alexandrea Weis, author of The Ghost of Rue Dumaine

Today on the blog we have Alexandrea Weis, author of The Ghost of Rue Dumaine for an interview. Sit back and let’s find out more about this fabulous author.

 

 

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

No, I pretty much knew from the age of eight that I liked working with words. But I never really envisioned being a fiction writer until I was older. I am able to do what I always dreamed of, so in many ways I am very, very lucky.

When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?

That is a moniker that it took me a while to comprehend. I was a nurse, still am, and being part of a scientific filed makes you tend to see things as black and white, and anyone outside of that field

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

It seems like forever, but I self-published my first book, To My Senses, almost six years after writing it. I had a few agents interested, but nothing ever worked out. So, I decided to go it alone in 2007, way before self-publishing got big. I learned a lot about the business, and I am grateful for the experience.

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

I am a clinical specialist in gerontological nursing. I have a PhD in nursing and do patient consults for orthopedic and neurologically injured patients. In addition, I am permitted wildlife rehabber with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries. I take in orphaned and injured wildlife to rehabbed back into the wild.

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

A love story about a woman coming to terms with her painful past and the ghost who helps her.

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

My next book is a contemporary romance coming 2/1/14 called Cover to Covers. It is a sexy tale about a romance writer who uses an old flame as inspiration for her heroes. Then, one day, that man walks back into her life and the sparks fly.

What genre would you place your books into?

Romance, wither contemporary, suspense or paranormal.

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

I really like Gaston from The Ghosts of Rue Dumaine. He was a unique character to tackle with his blend of the past and the modern rolled together. I kept trying to think if I were a ghosts and still part of this world today, how it would change me. I figured a ghost is just as susceptible to the influences of media as we are, and I wrote him as if that were the case.

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

I have been writing since I was eight. What inspired me to write? I have no idea. It just started as an assignment in the third grade and I discovered the emotion I was feeling I could impart into the words on the page. It was always the one thing I felt comfortable doing, and driven to do, if that makes sense. All I know is that I need to write. It makes me feel whole.

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

No routine. I have a place in my bedroom where I write, but when I am into a book, all that matters is that I sit and write. I usually drown out the rest of the world. I have written in hurricanes and when I am so sick I can barely sit upright, but I kept on writing.

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

I try to read a few. I appreciate reviews and reviewers a great deal, and respect all opinions. I realize this is a very subjective business, but I try not to let what I read influence how I write. I know a lot of authors will change how they write because a reviewer said there was something about their style they hated. That is one person’s opinion, and I feel it should not alter your creative voice.

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

I always just start writing. The title comes later, usually after a lot of debate.

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

Names I draw from people I know and names I like. The places are from my experiences. Places where I have been or like places with similar features so I can add the descriptions of how they feel, look, and smell.

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

Characters come as I write the book. I never have the figured out ahead of time. After I am finished I always go back and add more to give the characters dimension.

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..")

All I try to instill into a story is the sense of appreciate what you have at the moment, because you never know how long it will last. I think that applies to all avenues of one’s life; people, careers, relationships, everything.

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

I am old-fashioned, and I still love the smell of opening a new book. Reading should always be a multi-sensual experience, and I believe paperback and hardbacks add to the pleasure of a story.

Book Blitz: The Ghosts of Rue Dumaine by Alexandrea Weis

 

The Ghosts of Rue Dumaine

Alexandrea Weis

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Publisher: World Castle Publishing

Date of Publication: 9/1/2013

ISBN: 1939865646

ASIN:

Number of pages: 240

Word Count: 82,000

Amazon

Book Description:

Ready to get her life back on track after ending a painful marriage, Danica Giles returns to the Creole cottage where she grew up in the New Orleans French Quarter. Danica is anxious to rekindle her friendship with a former resident from her old neighborhood, the seductive Gaston Deslonde. But Gaston isn’t exactly a normal guy.

The charming man has been dead for over a hundred and fifty years, and the childish crush Danica once had on her ghostly playmate quickly turns into something much deeper.

When a handsome new man enters Danica’s life, Gaston vows to do whatever he can to hold on to her. Danica soon discovers that the most forbidden of all desires cannot be satisfied without paying a grave price. Love can blur the lines between life and death when you are living among The Ghosts of Rue Dumaine.

 

Alexandrea Weis is an advanced practice registered nurse who was born and raised in New Orleans. Her first novel, To My Senses, introduced readers to the world of Nicci Beauvoir and garnered numerous awards and rave reviews. 

Her popular second Nicci Beauvoir novel, Recovery, won the Gold Medal for best romantic suspense from The Reader’s Favorite Book Awards 2011, and was named best Romantic Suspense novel by the Spring 2011 NABE Pinnacle Book Awards. Her fourth novel, Broken Wings, won best Contemporary Romance by the NABE Pinnacle Book Awards in 2012, was a Silver Medal winner in the ForeWord Magazine Book of the Year Awards for Romance, as well as a finalist in the USA Book Awards for Romance in 2012, and a finalist in the Reader’s Favorite Book Awards for Contemporary Romance for 2012. Diary of a One-Night Stand, was released in August 2012 and was named a Paranormal Romance Guild’s Best Reviewed of 2012. Her last novel, Acadian Waltz was a Readers’ Favorite Book Awards finalist for Best Contemporary Romance and Best Southern Fiction.

A permitted wildlife rehabber with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries, Weis rescues orphaned and injured wildlife. She lives with her husband and pets in New Orleans.

Author Amazon BN

https://www.facebook.com/pages/To-My-Senses/113609858681394

https://twitter.com/alexandreaweis

http://www.alexandreaweis.com/index.html

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1211671.Alexandrea_Weis

http://alexandreaweiscom.blogspot.com/

Book Blitz and Giveaway: Luck of the Dragon by Susannah Scott

 

 

 

Luck of the Dragon

Susannah Scott

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release Date: June 2013

Publisher: Entangled Covet

Book Description:

Luciana de Luca has a PhD in sass and gemology—and a problem. Her twin brother’s gambling debts have gotten out of hand, and a mob enforcer is blackmailing her to rob the latest, greatest mega-casino on the Strip. Although Lucy has worked her whole life to get away from her family’s grifter past, to save her brother, she dons three-inch heels and a sluts-r-us dress and struts into Alec’s Gerald’s casino, determined to put her long-forgotten thieving ways to the test again.

Alec Gerald, a shape-shifting dragon, has built the Crown Jewel casino to provide sanctuary for his people amongst the flash and awe of Las Vegas. Unfortunately, the sexy little thief trying to rob his gem exhibit turns out to be his mate, and he must woo her before he loses his dragon form forever. With enemies in every corner, and the all-important mating ceremony looming, Alec and Lucy must learn to trust each other, before time runs out for Alec and the rest of the dragons.

Amazon Kobo Barnes and Noble

Luck of the Dragon--Chapter 1—sample

Excerpt:

Suddenly, the scent of burning embers swirled over the courtyard and the wind settled, blowing Lucy’s loose hair around her face. A ground-vibrating roar followed, making every human eye search the sky for the source.

What was it?

Lucy’s well-honed survival instincts went on high alert just as a large SUV-sized black object careened through the air and landed on the raised stage with a thud.

Grannies, kids, and call girls hit the ground screaming.

Heart pounding, Lucy crouched with the crowd. The acrid scent of smoldering intensified. Pounding from the stage rattled Lucy’s eardrums. Whatever had landed there was moving and alive. On the platform, clawed feet stomped, and the creature’s matte black skin stretched over powerful muscles and bones. Black wings unfurled across the stage, and the animal roared again at the crowd, baring razor-sharp white fangs.

A dragon.

Holy Mary, Joseph, and Peter. A freakin’ dragon. 

SUSANNAH SCOTT lives in the Missouri Ozarks and is the lone female in a very loud household of males ranging in age from 4 to 40. While she jokes that the extreme levels of testosterone inspired her to write romance, it is really the love of creating an excellent story, and the occasional dreams of twenty-foot dragons, that wake her and send her to the laptop before the chaos of daily life ensues. Susannah loves to hear from her readers at the following social media locations:

Susannah Scott Author website

Susannah Scott Facebook Author page

Susannah Scott Goodreads

Susananh Scott Twitter

 

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Book Blitz and Giveaway: Stealing Fire by Susan Sloate

 

 

Book Info-

Title- Stealing Fire

By-Susan Sloate

Expected Publication Date- late August 2013

Blurb-

“How do you recognize your soulmate?

In glittery 1980’s Los Angeles, Beau Kellogg is a brilliant Broadway lyricist now writing advertising jingles and yearning for one more hit to compensate for his miserable marriage and disappointing life.

Amanda Harary, a young singer out of synch with her contemporaries, works at a small New York hotel, while she dreams of singing on Broadway.

When they meet late at night over the hotel switchboard, what begins will bring them each unexpected success, untold joy, and piercing heartache ... until they learn that some connections, however improbable, are meant to last forever.

STEALING FIRE is, at its heart, a story for romantics everywhere, who believe in the transformative power of love.”

STEALING FIRE was a 2012 quarter-finalist in the amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Contest.

Links-

Goodreads- http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18263631-stealing-fire

Amazon Kindle- http://www.amazon.com/Stealing-Fire-ebook/dp/B00DQUKI0I/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-3&qid=1379800493

Amazon Paperback- http://www.amazon.com/Stealing-Fire-Susan-Sloate/dp/1935970127/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1379800493&sr=8-3

Smashwords- http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/332272

B&N Nook- http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/stealing-fire-susan-sloate/1116263708?ean=9781935970125

B&N paperback- http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/stealing-fire-susan-sloate/1116263708?ean=9781935970125

Excerpt -

The phones were ringing off the hook, and it was after three. And Amanda was tired.

She disposed of all the calls; she didn't think she could be bright and bubbling tonight. As she started to put down her headset, she realized she'd left one call on hold; the red light winked tantalizingly at her. She pushed the button, and was startled to hear a light, clear whistle delicately sounding one of her favorite old songs.

For a moment, she just listened. Then she started to hum along, filling in the words where she could remember them.

The whistling stopped, and the voice she'd come to recognize and dread pushed out at her. "So you know it."

"It's one of my favorites." She hummed a few more bars, hesitatingly. "I've known it for years."

"Remember the title?" It was a challenge.

"`Bursting Bubbles'." That was easy. She remembered the scratchy old record that Josie had broken years ago. Even now she felt a small pang at losing it. "From a show called The Life and Times."

"Well, well. I'm impressed. Two points for you."

"And for you, 704. Are you into trivia games?"

He chuckled. "So you know who I am. That makes you one up on me. I don't know who you are."

"Why do you want to know? Gonna complain to the boss?"

"I wanted to thank you. I don't often have a chocolate shake for breakfast, but it really hit the spot this morning. I never get service like this, not even at the Lorelei."

Susan Sloate is the author or co-author of more than 20 books, including Realizing You(with Ronald Doades), a recent self-help novel, and the 2003 #6 Amazon bestseller, Forward to Camelot (with Kevin Finn), which took honors in 3 literary competitions and was optioned by a Hollywood company for film production.

She has written young-adult fiction and non-fiction, including the children’s biography Ray Charles: Find Another Way!, which was honored in the 2007 Children’s Moonbeam Book Awards. Mysteries Unwrapped: The Secrets of Alcatraz led to her 2009 appearance on the TV series MysteryQuest on The History Channel. Amelia Earhart: Challenging the Skies is a perennial young-adult Amazon bestseller. She has also been a sportswriter and screenwriter, managed two recent political campaigns, and founded an author’s festival in her hometown outside Charleston, SC.

Stealing Fire was a Quarter-Finalist in the 2012 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award contest and combines autobiographical experience with her lifelong love of the musical theater. She is proud to be distantly related to Broadway legend Fred Ebb, the lyricist for Cabaret,Chicago, All That Jazz and New York, New York.

Visit Susan online at http://susansloate.com.

Links-

Goodreads- http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/233349.Susan_Sloate

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/pages/Susan-Sloate/194240690604826

Twitter- https://twitter.com/Susan_Sloate

Website- http://susansloate.com

Pinterest- http://www.pinterest.com/susansloate/

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Book Blitz and Giveaway: Hunting Laura by JA Bailey

✿´¯`*•.✿✿´¯`*•.✿✿´¯`*•.✿✿´¯`*•.✿✿´¯`*•.✿✿´¯`*•.✿✿´¯`*•.✿✿´¯`*•.✿✿´¯`*•.✿✿´¯`*•.✿

♥ BOOK INFO ♥ ♥ TITLE ~ Hunting Laura ♥ AUTHOR ~ J.A. Bailey ♥ GENRE ~ Erotic Romance ♥ RELEASE DATE ~ June 1, 2013 ♥ PUBLISHER ~ Author ♥ COVER ARTIST ~ Samantha Holt
♥ BOOK DESCRIPTION ♥ Laura Laura has just signed up for a term at the exclusive school for submissives. But all is not as it seems. The sexy blonde is hiding the real reason she's there. As the classes progress, Laura is forced to face some truths about her problems with sex along with her growing attraction to her mentor, the dark and distracting Mr Hunter.   Mr Hunter promises to whip her into shape as a sub but before long he is uncovering many of her deepest secrets and desires. But will he discover her biggest secret? And can Mr Hunter really help Laura overcome her issues with his rough methods?   Niall Niall Hunter, a teacher at the exclusive Hollybourne School, knows there's something unusual about his submissive student, Laura. And it’s not just her issues with sex... While his desire for her wars with his duty, Hunter is determined to help her conquer her problems and find out every secret inside that head of hers. Will he be able to fix what is broken?   As their relationship heats up, Hunter realises he wants more than just a teacher/pupil relationship, but after being hurt in the past, can he trust the secretive woman? And does she feel more than just gratitude for him?
Content warning: Contains adult scenes.
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  He pulled several lengths as Laura watched, seemingly oblivious to her presence. Her heavy legs remained rooted even as she tried to persuade herself to go. Just get out, Laura. Walk away and leave. Hunter paused at the end of the lane and stared at her, sending a shiver through her. Cheeks flaming, she dove under and swam furiously. She didn't stop until breathless and exhausted. Unfortunately he was still there and she was still frustrated.
His dark gaze studied her as she swam over to the edge and gathered her breath. “Why did you do that?”   Blinking away the water, she scowled. “Do what, Sir?”   “Swim as if you were trying to escape something. Were you trying to escape me?”   Laura released a spluttered laugh. “Of course not.” His eyebrow twitched as if he didn't believe her. Damn him. “You were doing the same,” she added.   He chuckled, the sound unexpectedly lifting her heart. “You might be right.”   They stared at each other. Surely he heard her pulse pounding? When he looked at her like that, she was sure he could see everything. Did he know the truth? Was that why he’d taken a disliking to her? Shit. She was such a fool for agreeing to this. No job was worth this.   Courage sapped by his dark eyes, she swam over to the steps. On her like a tiger, he swam quickly after her and she failed to prevent the surprised yelp as she grabbed on to the metal steps and his arms came around her, gripping the railings. She twisted around to find him looming over her, the water dripping from his hair onto her face. The haunted look no longer lingered in his gaze, instead hunger seeped into it and twisted her stomach.   “You are trying to swim away your frustration,” he stated.   Laura gaped up at him, her shaky fingers curling around the stair railings, just beneath his hands. His body pressed into hers, making the steps dig into her back.   “Are you frustrated, Laura?”   “Are you?” she threw back.   A wry smile quirked on his lips. “Yes. God help me, I am.”   His mouth came down upon hers, causing a gasp. She heard his muffled curse as his hands twined under her damp hair and his tongue pressed into her mouth. Powerless against the onslaught, she gripped stupidly at the railings as her body responded to his touch.   Arching into him, she kissed him back. Even as she fought it, her body craved him.   ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
 
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J.A. lives and works in England and has been writing for many years now. She loves to create stories with a distinctly British feel and all her stories involve strong, virile men, intelligent women and the raunchiest scenarios possible. You can find J.A. on Facebook at www.facebook.com/onlysexystories
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Author Interview with A.K Taylor, author of the Neiko Adventures

Today on the blog we have A.K Taylor for an interview. Sit back and let’s get to know this wonderful author.

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

Probably in some ways I did. When I was introduced to writing at age 8, and when I learned how to read, I thought it would be cool to write a book. Becoming a published author was a different story altogether though—I once thought it was extremely hard or nearly impossible. I was only a teenager when I wrote my first book, so what did I know about publishing? That’s right, not a darn thing. I didn’t really know what I wanted to do for a career really. I had a couple ideas, but nothing concrete. I mainly wrote for fun, and for sometime it was a private hobby.

When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?

I considered myself “hardcore” when I wrote my first novel Neiko’s Five Land Adventure at 16. I always liked writing, but I was often too busy going on adventures in the woods earlier in life. Like I said before, I never saw myself as a “professional” writer, just the secret hobbyist. I felt like the professional writers would think my writings and sketches were stupid and immature, and they wouldn’t touch anything written by a backwoods teenager with a 10 foot pole. Going pro was the last thing from my mind. Well let’s just say life is full of irony…

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

It took me about 13 years, but I suffered a setback with a predatory publisher so I had to republish. It was worth it though, I guess, considering all the things I learned in the wake of that mistake and all the amazing people I have been able to meet and connect with.

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

I started a new business this year: Soaring Eagle Publicity, which I aim to help other authors with publicity and affordable advertising and social media. I work with Rachel Thompson on the Indiebookpromo team on a volunteer basis running the YA blog. I used to work for an analytical lab, but that job was claimed by the recession in 2010.

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 next in line to be published is Black Hand Vacation. After 25 years the Black Hand is stirring once again and Neiko’s enemies are closing in on her. A normal vacation? Yeah right.

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

I am self published—I just hire companies and professionals to help me with design and distribution.

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

It depends on the length of the book and what is going on in my life at the time. It can take 4 months to a year. I can brainstorm and make a basic plot but I have enough of the panster in me to be unable to tell you how long the book is going to be. In case you haven’t noticed I’m a planster—a hybrid.

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

You can expect more books from the same genre as well as books in different genres. I have many more coming in the Neiko Adventure Saga. Not too long ago I have an idea for a high fantasy trilogy called the Light Sword Trilogy. I have plans for another nonfiction book about bullying called Rising Above the Ashes. Ideas for some YA thrillers are on the drawing board. I will eventually delve into horror, paranormal, and hard core scifi at some point. I will ALWAYS stay in the young reader group; I suck at writing for adults. I’ve been writing for young readers since I was a young reader so it’s too hard to change.

What genre would you place your books into?

For the Neiko Saga? Fantasy Action Adventure. As for what kind of fantasy, I’m not going there because it isn’t a pure form of anything. So we’ll just leave it at fantasy. Book #2 Escape from Ancient Egypt can fall into the historical fantasy category well.

What made you decide to write that genre of book?

I have always enjoyed fantasy, but I wanted to do something different at the same time. Pieces of other genres (thriller, paranormal, science fiction) have found their way in. You can fit these in a fantasy easier than the other way around.

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

I would guess Neiko, the MC. We have so much in common. I love her quick wit and her ability to not take crap from anybody, including a very famous Egyptian Pharaoh or an immortal dark entity. She gets to do things I dream of doing.

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

In general about 8 years old doing short stories and poems. Novels came around at 16. So, I’ve been writing about 25 years and pretty much self-taught; I’ve been a novelist for 17 years. Publishing is relatively new. I have met a couple people who have taken time with me to whittle my craft a bit more which is all part of the gig. When I was a kid, being able to plug my high-powered imagination into something other than play was inspiration enough. When I was a teen my pretend adventures in the woods and backyard, movies, art, video games, nature, science, reading, and music all serve as inspiration as well as the fleeting thought or even a dream. What pushed me over the edge to become a teen novelist was my crappy high school social life and bullying. Nintendo and homework can only go so far and my imagination was running out of my ears. I had to find an outlet or grow another head. Writing was that outlet, and it seemed easier and a lot less painful than growing a second head.

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

Not really. I go out of town a lot, but I always try to find a spot that’s quiet and comfortable. I do my best writing in the afternoons and evenings. For one, I am a night owl, and secondly, this is probably a spillover from having to write after school or after homework. I hated it if I was loaded up with homework and I had a cool new idea I wanted to write. I brainstormed a lot while sitting alone at lunch or when other people were socializing and leaving me out. Needless to say, I was ready to write when I got home after school or band practice.

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

I do. I do take a moment to see what thoughts someone took the time to share. I do talk to people on social media who reach out. I don’t have a lot of fan mail right now since I am still an emerging author.

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

I try to choose a working title first and then write the book. I weigh the title after I finish the rough draft and see if it still fits with the flow of the story. Sometimes it needs a bit of tweaking or “I’m just not feeling it”. Every once in a while I’ll need a hand.

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

They seem to come from different places. Something may just come to mind. I may have seen that name somewhere before and I think it sounds cool. Others come from manipulation of words from English or other languages or words from other languages. Of course I hold the name up to the character and see if it fits and if it reflects his/her character or the place.

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

This sort of depends. It actually happens both ways for me believe it or not. Some things come together faster than others. Sometimes I can have the character mapped completely out except for the name if I have a bit of a time finding/thinking of something that fits. The same can be true of place.

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

 This is also sort of both for me and more evidence of a planster. For main characters and the major supporting characters, I build the characters first since they will be driving the story from the plotted-out point A to point B. Minor characters are more “as I go along” type thing—the person the main character needs help from at a certain point in time or the passerby or whatever.

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..")

Mostly on the lines of never giving up no matter the foe or the odds. You may have to rely on yourself and your wits to get out of a bind or sustain until help comes. Have friends you can count on.

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

I prefer either paperback or ebook—both have their pros and cons. I’m not fond of hardbacks because they’re heavy and expensive, and I have to fight with the dust jackets (for those that have them).

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

Redwall by Brian Jacques. I have probably read it about 4 or 5 times. I like Haunted Island by Joan Lowery Nixon; it was my favorite MG book. I’ve read it about 7 or 8 times. My favorite children’s book is Max the Bad Talking Parrot, but I don’t remember the author (that was a long time ago now). I read it about 3 or 4 times, and I remember a couple of the characters and a couple of the lines—they were just so funny.

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

 I believe they can, but just sometimes it just doesn’t happen for whatever reason. It’s when they deviate too far from the original book, and why they do that I don’t know. I would think my favorite transfer would be the Harry Potter series.

Your favorite food is?

Chocolate—the more in a helping and the darker the better!

Your favorite singer/group is?

I like Linkin Park, Godsmack, Creed, and Nickleback. I listen to other music types as well from country to classical. Considering where I grew up I listened to a lot of country.

Your favorite color is?

I like just about anything except pink (my tomboy’s showing, I know) and Barney purple (I hated that show with a passion). Black, camo, brown, and army green are my favorite to wear.

 

Remember to check out today’s spotlight to learn more abut Neiko’s Adventures.