S.A. Jones's Blog, page 3
October 10, 2013
Jack Cannon's American Destiny by Greg Sandora (Review)
A free copy of this novel was provided in exchange for a fair and honest review.
~*~ A Review of Jack Cannon's American Destiny by Greg Sandora
Jack Cannon's American Destiny was a different genre of novel for me to read. While I am a fan of a good thriller, political thrillers have never been much of a draw in for me, but I really wanted to give the novel a try and see if maybe, just maybe, it was the one for me. That being said, I did enjoy the novel; however, I do not foresee that I will read it again.The character of Jack is endearing, a good, all-American boy, who's devoted to his wife and family. He's the type of man you would want for an American politician. The character is extremely well-developed, as are the supporting characters within the novel. There are no complaints there, by any means! A rare quality, it seems, in books today.My biggest complaint of the novel was the length. There was some necessity to this, being that it did build up to something greater, but for me, it was just too much. The first half the book was spent learning all about Jack and his political stance, which was to be expected, but I did not anticipate the amount of detail the novel went in to. Granted, that was probably a major oversight on my part.That said, the thrill part of the novel, once it got going for me, was there. I found myself sprint reading pages at times in order to find out what was going to happen, and it was wonderful. I don't want to give anything away though!All in all, if you're into political novels, or just thrillers, I recommend giving this novel a shot. It might be for you, and it might not be.But if you love a good mix of both, it undoubtedly is.Keep reading to find out more about Jack Cannon's American Destiny and about the author, Greg Sandora!~*~
Summary of Jack Cannon's American Destiny by Greg Sandora
It’s the steamy summer of 2016 in Washington, D.C. just days before the Democratic National Convention. A long and painful recession has left ordinary Americans suffering, spawning the hottest Presidential Contest in history. Jack Canon, a man born into privilege, a witness to great social injustice is going to be President of the United States– no matter what! Desperate and corrupt, the leader of the free world orders a hit to slow him down. The plan backfires–the wrong people are dead–a manhunt points to the unthinkable–The President of the United States.
~*~
Excerpt from Jack Cannon's American Destiny
The only thing that gave me a worse vibe than these two was Gene’s taste in decorating. The ceilings were about 30 feet high and three walls held books up to about the first 15 feet, after which was a very large landing around three quarters of the room. The wall opposite the door was made up of five floor-to-ceiling arched windows. The bottom six feet of each had colonial muttons and were partially opened, allowing the outside winter cold to fight with the heat in the room. On the landings above the bookshelves were housed various artifacts of torture. Gene saw me noticing, “These are from the collection of King Henry,” he boasted.
There were guillotines and stretching racks and other devices all made of aged wood and black iron. Some had big weathered chain links hanging from them and leather straps. There were black iron turning wheels, the sight was gruesome.
Gene motioned to a large axe with a semicircular blade and an unusually long, thick handle. “This is my prized piece of the entire collection – the axe used to behead Katherine, Henry’s youngest bride.” Mounted next to the axe, on a polished cherry post, was a scrap of parchment. Next to it, carved in gold lettering over black onyx, was inscribed an onlooker. The parchment had faded to an almost illegible degree and was kept behind glass.
Gene said, “The onlooker’s account is sealed in helium, just like the Declaration of Independence, to preserve it. I’ve had it authenticated by historians, expert in the period.” The words were transferred onto the stone.
The eerie account told of the misty morning when the helpless fair-haired teenager, a mere girl, forced to lay under the weight of the wealth of England, was led to her death.
I read the inscribed: Queen Katherine emerged just before nine in the morning. A rain the night before had turned the courtyard muddy to our ankles. The streets containing the foul smell of chicken scratch and horse urine slurried into the mix. Gawkers’ pushed for position and strained to see the delicate fawn-like Katherine as she walked barefoot, clothed only in a very plain and simple linen dress. The exposed skin of her upper chest was so pale I could see the ghostly blue vein patchwork just beneath. The last time I had seen the young queen she was amazing, the most beautiful woman in all England.
Fancily dressed and bright, riding in an open coach smiling sweetly waving to her subjects, I fancied the thought our eyes might have met for a second.
“Spill her blood!” A spectator called out. I thought, what cowards this mob, content to stand by and watch. Greedily clinging to their own lives–any one of which could be wrenched from him in a second.
This bitter gray morning, the little Queen made her way slowly up to the old worn wooden steps, pausing briefly, turning sad doe eyes back to the crowd. A pitiful thin waif of a child so helpless and demure, Katherine continued up the stairs carefully gripping the railing as if it were her mother’s hand, that somehow she might be swept away from all this.
Once upon the platform, facing the crowd full on, her tiny limbs were exposed and pale, a simple dress hanging over her nearly shapeless frame. She wore no jewelry. Her one remaining vanity, long hair, perfectly combed. The henchman placed her firmly against the block and with a blank and helpless stare Katherine moved her beautiful locks to one side exposing her slender neck.
I waited for her to jump to her feet and scream out in defiance, “What have I done that your precious King isn’t guilty of?”
Laying her head sideways on the block, she awaited her fate in silence.
The black-hooded killer appeared to us like a giant standing over her. A moment before, even the handle of the axe and the blade had been taller than the living little queen. He drew back. I heard the neck cracking then a thud as the girl’s head crashed to the platform floor. Steam rose from the blood pouring in a warm pool from the lifeless body slumped behind the block. Gene Hobbs had acquired the only known account of the gruesome event; one can imagine that onlookers must have rushed to write on whatever they could find to recount the scene. The metaphor of the rich over the poor and the machinery of torture in the room made me shudder. Reading the narrative, I felt sickened by the horror of the day, for lost innocence and the tyranny of the time. What a waste of a beautiful young life; what a disgrace for England.
~*~
About the Author; Greg Sandora
I'm originally from the Portland, Maine area and lived and worked there for years before moving to
Southwest Florida. I am currently working on the sequel to Jack Canon's American Destiny - which will be titled Camelot A Tender Romantic Thriller. The sequel will be available in about three months.
My Dad and Mom were artists, my father painted and my mother wrote poetry and loved to garden. Most Saturdays we loaded up the 1970 Chevy Impala to trek to a one man show somewhere or other. I took a different track graduating with a business degree; owning and operating an Award Winning Franchise Fitness Center. Currently a professional manager I am living in Florida with my beautiful wife and children, and following my passion.
Some of my other projects include a children's book called Sammy the Sea Turtle - about an infant sea turtle taken from his nest the night he was to find his way to the sea. Sammy lives with the family until their son - the boy who took him, graduates from high school. On that day Sammy, backpack in tow - begins the long journey home.
My second project in the works involves angels - a man during a visit to Bar Harbor Maine encounters an angel; quite accidentally, he is told - she was not supposed to make him aware of her existence. Only three others have ever seen the real thing. Naturally he falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful creature.
~*~ Trailer for Jack Cannon's American Destiny
~*~
Find Jack Cannon's American Destiny and Author Greg Sandora
Buy Jack Cannon's American Destiny
Facebook
Website
Pinterest
Pinterest Pin
~*~ A Review of Jack Cannon's American Destiny by Greg Sandora
Jack Cannon's American Destiny was a different genre of novel for me to read. While I am a fan of a good thriller, political thrillers have never been much of a draw in for me, but I really wanted to give the novel a try and see if maybe, just maybe, it was the one for me. That being said, I did enjoy the novel; however, I do not foresee that I will read it again.The character of Jack is endearing, a good, all-American boy, who's devoted to his wife and family. He's the type of man you would want for an American politician. The character is extremely well-developed, as are the supporting characters within the novel. There are no complaints there, by any means! A rare quality, it seems, in books today.My biggest complaint of the novel was the length. There was some necessity to this, being that it did build up to something greater, but for me, it was just too much. The first half the book was spent learning all about Jack and his political stance, which was to be expected, but I did not anticipate the amount of detail the novel went in to. Granted, that was probably a major oversight on my part.That said, the thrill part of the novel, once it got going for me, was there. I found myself sprint reading pages at times in order to find out what was going to happen, and it was wonderful. I don't want to give anything away though!All in all, if you're into political novels, or just thrillers, I recommend giving this novel a shot. It might be for you, and it might not be.But if you love a good mix of both, it undoubtedly is.Keep reading to find out more about Jack Cannon's American Destiny and about the author, Greg Sandora!~*~
Summary of Jack Cannon's American Destiny by Greg Sandora
It’s the steamy summer of 2016 in Washington, D.C. just days before the Democratic National Convention. A long and painful recession has left ordinary Americans suffering, spawning the hottest Presidential Contest in history. Jack Canon, a man born into privilege, a witness to great social injustice is going to be President of the United States– no matter what! Desperate and corrupt, the leader of the free world orders a hit to slow him down. The plan backfires–the wrong people are dead–a manhunt points to the unthinkable–The President of the United States.~*~
Excerpt from Jack Cannon's American Destiny
The only thing that gave me a worse vibe than these two was Gene’s taste in decorating. The ceilings were about 30 feet high and three walls held books up to about the first 15 feet, after which was a very large landing around three quarters of the room. The wall opposite the door was made up of five floor-to-ceiling arched windows. The bottom six feet of each had colonial muttons and were partially opened, allowing the outside winter cold to fight with the heat in the room. On the landings above the bookshelves were housed various artifacts of torture. Gene saw me noticing, “These are from the collection of King Henry,” he boasted.
There were guillotines and stretching racks and other devices all made of aged wood and black iron. Some had big weathered chain links hanging from them and leather straps. There were black iron turning wheels, the sight was gruesome.
Gene motioned to a large axe with a semicircular blade and an unusually long, thick handle. “This is my prized piece of the entire collection – the axe used to behead Katherine, Henry’s youngest bride.” Mounted next to the axe, on a polished cherry post, was a scrap of parchment. Next to it, carved in gold lettering over black onyx, was inscribed an onlooker. The parchment had faded to an almost illegible degree and was kept behind glass.
Gene said, “The onlooker’s account is sealed in helium, just like the Declaration of Independence, to preserve it. I’ve had it authenticated by historians, expert in the period.” The words were transferred onto the stone.
The eerie account told of the misty morning when the helpless fair-haired teenager, a mere girl, forced to lay under the weight of the wealth of England, was led to her death.
I read the inscribed: Queen Katherine emerged just before nine in the morning. A rain the night before had turned the courtyard muddy to our ankles. The streets containing the foul smell of chicken scratch and horse urine slurried into the mix. Gawkers’ pushed for position and strained to see the delicate fawn-like Katherine as she walked barefoot, clothed only in a very plain and simple linen dress. The exposed skin of her upper chest was so pale I could see the ghostly blue vein patchwork just beneath. The last time I had seen the young queen she was amazing, the most beautiful woman in all England.
Fancily dressed and bright, riding in an open coach smiling sweetly waving to her subjects, I fancied the thought our eyes might have met for a second.
“Spill her blood!” A spectator called out. I thought, what cowards this mob, content to stand by and watch. Greedily clinging to their own lives–any one of which could be wrenched from him in a second.
This bitter gray morning, the little Queen made her way slowly up to the old worn wooden steps, pausing briefly, turning sad doe eyes back to the crowd. A pitiful thin waif of a child so helpless and demure, Katherine continued up the stairs carefully gripping the railing as if it were her mother’s hand, that somehow she might be swept away from all this.
Once upon the platform, facing the crowd full on, her tiny limbs were exposed and pale, a simple dress hanging over her nearly shapeless frame. She wore no jewelry. Her one remaining vanity, long hair, perfectly combed. The henchman placed her firmly against the block and with a blank and helpless stare Katherine moved her beautiful locks to one side exposing her slender neck.
I waited for her to jump to her feet and scream out in defiance, “What have I done that your precious King isn’t guilty of?”
Laying her head sideways on the block, she awaited her fate in silence.
The black-hooded killer appeared to us like a giant standing over her. A moment before, even the handle of the axe and the blade had been taller than the living little queen. He drew back. I heard the neck cracking then a thud as the girl’s head crashed to the platform floor. Steam rose from the blood pouring in a warm pool from the lifeless body slumped behind the block. Gene Hobbs had acquired the only known account of the gruesome event; one can imagine that onlookers must have rushed to write on whatever they could find to recount the scene. The metaphor of the rich over the poor and the machinery of torture in the room made me shudder. Reading the narrative, I felt sickened by the horror of the day, for lost innocence and the tyranny of the time. What a waste of a beautiful young life; what a disgrace for England.
~*~
About the Author; Greg Sandora
I'm originally from the Portland, Maine area and lived and worked there for years before moving to Southwest Florida. I am currently working on the sequel to Jack Canon's American Destiny - which will be titled Camelot A Tender Romantic Thriller. The sequel will be available in about three months.
My Dad and Mom were artists, my father painted and my mother wrote poetry and loved to garden. Most Saturdays we loaded up the 1970 Chevy Impala to trek to a one man show somewhere or other. I took a different track graduating with a business degree; owning and operating an Award Winning Franchise Fitness Center. Currently a professional manager I am living in Florida with my beautiful wife and children, and following my passion.
Some of my other projects include a children's book called Sammy the Sea Turtle - about an infant sea turtle taken from his nest the night he was to find his way to the sea. Sammy lives with the family until their son - the boy who took him, graduates from high school. On that day Sammy, backpack in tow - begins the long journey home.
My second project in the works involves angels - a man during a visit to Bar Harbor Maine encounters an angel; quite accidentally, he is told - she was not supposed to make him aware of her existence. Only three others have ever seen the real thing. Naturally he falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful creature.
~*~ Trailer for Jack Cannon's American Destiny
~*~
Find Jack Cannon's American Destiny and Author Greg Sandora
Buy Jack Cannon's American Destiny
Website
Pinterest Pin
September 30, 2013
Tormented by Lorenz Font (P&E)
Today I'm running a tad behind, but thrilled to be one of the stops for the official blog tour of Tormented by book writing machine Lorenz Font!
Summary of Tormented by Lorenz Font
Tor Burns is a non-infected vampire who has taken refuge in the Tack Enterprises underground facility. Having survived a vicious attack with his fellow vampire Harrow, he now has a new purpose. Vampires afflicted with Gates Syndrome are still being hunted, and Tor is committed to saving them from the clutches of the Vampire Council. With a semi-cure within their grasp, Tor is reluctant to accept his new assignment: bodyguard to Allison Tack, the daughter of their fallen leader. Armed with an abrasive personality and fierce loyalty, Tor approaches this new responsibility with serious determination despite his reservations.
Vampire Allison Tack is the beautiful and timid co-heir of the Tack fortune. Infected and hunted by the Council, those lucky enough to have known her father are determined to keep her safe. A walking target wherever she goes, Allison wants to learn how to protect herself, but no one is listening. Sick of being the helpless one in the company of trained fighters around her, Allison vows to prove that she can fight alongside the best of them.
Meanwhile, the harem leader, Melissa, is hell-bent on unraveling any clue about her son Demetrius’s fate. He disappeared without a word, and time has made her desperate. Stepping up her efforts, she seeks the help of Demetrius’s son, Zane. With the additional manpower, Melissa finds the lair of the suspected vampires and wages war against them.
Thrown together by necessity, Tor and Allison can’t continue to deny their attraction to each other. Tor wants to give in to his feelings for her, but old demons resurface. He must confront the past to prevent losing the best thing that ever happened to him.
A life must be given for a life taken. Will Tor have to sacrifice himself before Allison pays the price?
~*~
Tormented Book Trailer
~*~
A Giveaway in celebration of Tormented
a Rafflecopter giveaway
~*~
About the Author, Lorenz Font
Lorenz Font discovered her love of writing after reading a celebrated novel that inspired one idea after another. She is currently enjoying the buzz from her debut novel Hunted, the first installment of The Gates Legacy trilogy.
Writing is therapeutic for Lorenz, and a perfect day consists of writing and playing with her characters while listening to her ever-growing music collection. She enjoys dabbling in different genres, with an intense focus on angst and the redemption of flawed characters. Her fascination with romantic twists is a mainstay in all her stories.
Lorenz currently lives in California with her husband, children, and two demanding dogs. She divides her time between a full-time job as a Business Office Manager for a hospital and her busy writing schedule.
~*~
Find Lorenz Font
Facebook
Twitter
Website
Blog
Independent Authors Network
Linkedin
Goodreads
About.Me
Pinterest
~*~
Next Tour Stop 10.01.2013 Guest Post at N. Wood
Previous Tour Stop 09.29.2013 Review and Interview at Babus Book Reviews
Summary of Tormented by Lorenz Font
Tor Burns is a non-infected vampire who has taken refuge in the Tack Enterprises underground facility. Having survived a vicious attack with his fellow vampire Harrow, he now has a new purpose. Vampires afflicted with Gates Syndrome are still being hunted, and Tor is committed to saving them from the clutches of the Vampire Council. With a semi-cure within their grasp, Tor is reluctant to accept his new assignment: bodyguard to Allison Tack, the daughter of their fallen leader. Armed with an abrasive personality and fierce loyalty, Tor approaches this new responsibility with serious determination despite his reservations.
Vampire Allison Tack is the beautiful and timid co-heir of the Tack fortune. Infected and hunted by the Council, those lucky enough to have known her father are determined to keep her safe. A walking target wherever she goes, Allison wants to learn how to protect herself, but no one is listening. Sick of being the helpless one in the company of trained fighters around her, Allison vows to prove that she can fight alongside the best of them.
Meanwhile, the harem leader, Melissa, is hell-bent on unraveling any clue about her son Demetrius’s fate. He disappeared without a word, and time has made her desperate. Stepping up her efforts, she seeks the help of Demetrius’s son, Zane. With the additional manpower, Melissa finds the lair of the suspected vampires and wages war against them.
Thrown together by necessity, Tor and Allison can’t continue to deny their attraction to each other. Tor wants to give in to his feelings for her, but old demons resurface. He must confront the past to prevent losing the best thing that ever happened to him.
A life must be given for a life taken. Will Tor have to sacrifice himself before Allison pays the price?
~*~
Tormented Book Trailer
~*~
A Giveaway in celebration of Tormented
a Rafflecopter giveaway
~*~
About the Author, Lorenz Font
Lorenz Font discovered her love of writing after reading a celebrated novel that inspired one idea after another. She is currently enjoying the buzz from her debut novel Hunted, the first installment of The Gates Legacy trilogy.Writing is therapeutic for Lorenz, and a perfect day consists of writing and playing with her characters while listening to her ever-growing music collection. She enjoys dabbling in different genres, with an intense focus on angst and the redemption of flawed characters. Her fascination with romantic twists is a mainstay in all her stories.
Lorenz currently lives in California with her husband, children, and two demanding dogs. She divides her time between a full-time job as a Business Office Manager for a hospital and her busy writing schedule.
~*~
Find Lorenz Font
Website
Blog
Independent Authors Network
Goodreads
About.Me
~*~
Next Tour Stop 10.01.2013 Guest Post at N. Wood
Previous Tour Stop 09.29.2013 Review and Interview at Babus Book Reviews
September 20, 2013
Illicit Affairs Review
Hello there everyone! I'm posting to you from the Hampton Roads Fifth Annual Writers Conference, and in case you can't tell from the new layout, I've been busy while I've been here! Rest assured, I've met some wonderful people, and seen some great things.
Unfortunately, my internet connection is not the best here, though I have managed to find some in order to get this post out! The formatting is going to be off from how I would usually present a post, but rest assured as soon as I have the opportunity, I will be going back to correct that.
Onward to a quick review of Illicit Affairs by blog familiar N.J. Cole, Jo Matthews, and Bec Rose! (The unedited full review will be coming at the same time when I can properly format the post!)
A wonderful collection of erotic stories, Cole, Matthews, and Rose have certainly given the reader a taste of some amazing things! The novel is full of heartache and romance, and though each story is beautifully written and wrapped up, I wish that there was more to read. I find myself sitting here imaging happily ever afters and continuing the story in my head for each individual story.
Illicit Affairs certainly lives up to its title, providing a steamy and intense way to live vicariously through the characters' affairs. I wouldn't have expected anything less from the authors. So go ahead, pour yourself a glass of wine, and settle in this Friday night with your copy!
Buy Your Copy of Illicit Affairs
Amazon (ebook)
Unfortunately, my internet connection is not the best here, though I have managed to find some in order to get this post out! The formatting is going to be off from how I would usually present a post, but rest assured as soon as I have the opportunity, I will be going back to correct that.
Onward to a quick review of Illicit Affairs by blog familiar N.J. Cole, Jo Matthews, and Bec Rose! (The unedited full review will be coming at the same time when I can properly format the post!)
A wonderful collection of erotic stories, Cole, Matthews, and Rose have certainly given the reader a taste of some amazing things! The novel is full of heartache and romance, and though each story is beautifully written and wrapped up, I wish that there was more to read. I find myself sitting here imaging happily ever afters and continuing the story in my head for each individual story.
Illicit Affairs certainly lives up to its title, providing a steamy and intense way to live vicariously through the characters' affairs. I wouldn't have expected anything less from the authors. So go ahead, pour yourself a glass of wine, and settle in this Friday night with your copy!
Buy Your Copy of Illicit Affairs
Amazon (ebook)
September 18, 2013
Upon Your Return by Marie Lavender
Some of you may recall last month when Marie Lavender stopped by for an interview! If you're a new reader, or just want a refresher, you can find the interview HERE. At that time, Lavender shared about her latest release, Upon Your Return, and I'm here to review that novel today!
~*~
Review of Upon Your Return by Marie Lavender
Our novel opens with Fara Bellamont, a little girl, with some very grown-up thoughts. After losing her parents to tragedy, Fara is sent to live with her uncle who, frankly, I don't like. That's kind of the point, though. He's a retched man who believe rather firmly that women should be seen and not heard, as they are merely objects designated to serve men. It's not said in so many words in the novel, but you get the point.
Young Fara doesn't spend much time in the novel, and for that, I'm rather grateful. Not because I didn't like her, but because the author gets the ball rolling and doesn't waste time on events that could have possibly lost readers. Fara's uncle sends her off to a convent, and we don't see her again until she emerges a stunning, young woman.
There's so much more I'd like to add about the novel right here, especially after Fara meets our leading male, Grant. This is the first time I'm sharing these, but I feel it's the best way to avoid spoilers. I'm going to jump ahead here, and just share some of my personal notes that I make while reading:
Who doesn't love a hero? Fara right of the bat, that's who. You go girl.
Sexy kiss say whaaat? Marry him! (Totally contradicts a couple notes ago, whatever.)
Oh, Grant, you little rebel you.
I would not have made it in 1800s.
That moment when you're not sure if he ran... or was murdered.
One thing that never fails--the French can SO throw a party.
PLOT TWIST!
Still not convinced he's not dead.
Yes, I really wrote all this down. And that doesn't even cover the first hundred pages of the novel. Upon Your Return had me flicking through the pages faster than you can imagine, eager to see what happens next the whole way through the novel. Fara is not your typical female, and while she might be attracted to the leading male, she is not desperately clinging to his every word and action. Likewise, Grant, equally attracted to Fara, may try to win her affections, but his every waking moment is not dedicated to wooing her.
Upon Your Return is everything I had hoped it would be, and more. An excellent piece of historical fiction, with plenty of plot twists and intrigue, making the reader desperate to devour every last bit!
~*~
Buy Your Copy of Upon Your Return
Amazon (Paperback)
Amazon (Kindle)
~*~
Find Marie Lavender
WebsiteFacebookTwitter
~*~
Review of Upon Your Return by Marie Lavender
Our novel opens with Fara Bellamont, a little girl, with some very grown-up thoughts. After losing her parents to tragedy, Fara is sent to live with her uncle who, frankly, I don't like. That's kind of the point, though. He's a retched man who believe rather firmly that women should be seen and not heard, as they are merely objects designated to serve men. It's not said in so many words in the novel, but you get the point.Young Fara doesn't spend much time in the novel, and for that, I'm rather grateful. Not because I didn't like her, but because the author gets the ball rolling and doesn't waste time on events that could have possibly lost readers. Fara's uncle sends her off to a convent, and we don't see her again until she emerges a stunning, young woman.
There's so much more I'd like to add about the novel right here, especially after Fara meets our leading male, Grant. This is the first time I'm sharing these, but I feel it's the best way to avoid spoilers. I'm going to jump ahead here, and just share some of my personal notes that I make while reading:
Who doesn't love a hero? Fara right of the bat, that's who. You go girl.
Sexy kiss say whaaat? Marry him! (Totally contradicts a couple notes ago, whatever.)
Oh, Grant, you little rebel you.
I would not have made it in 1800s.
That moment when you're not sure if he ran... or was murdered.
One thing that never fails--the French can SO throw a party.
PLOT TWIST!
Still not convinced he's not dead.
Yes, I really wrote all this down. And that doesn't even cover the first hundred pages of the novel. Upon Your Return had me flicking through the pages faster than you can imagine, eager to see what happens next the whole way through the novel. Fara is not your typical female, and while she might be attracted to the leading male, she is not desperately clinging to his every word and action. Likewise, Grant, equally attracted to Fara, may try to win her affections, but his every waking moment is not dedicated to wooing her.
Upon Your Return is everything I had hoped it would be, and more. An excellent piece of historical fiction, with plenty of plot twists and intrigue, making the reader desperate to devour every last bit!
~*~
Buy Your Copy of Upon Your Return
Amazon (Paperback)
Amazon (Kindle)
~*~
Find Marie Lavender
WebsiteFacebookTwitter
September 16, 2013
Promo: In Exile by John J. Higgins
Today I'm featuring a promo of In Exile which is the third book in The Archangel Jarahmael and the War to Conquer Heaven books by John J. Higgins! If you've been reading the website for a while, these will sound familiar to you, if you haven't you can find my previous interview with Higgins HERE, and my reviews of In the Beginning (Book I) and In Rebellion (Book II) HERE.
~*~
Summary of The Archangel Jarahmael and the War to Conquer Heaven: In Exile (Book III) by John J. Higgins
Even the driving force in the Almighty’s Universe can be turned from Good into Evil.
IN EXILE, the third book of "The Archangel Jarahmael and the War to Conquer Heaven" Trilogy, chronicles what happens in the Universe when the mightiest Angels live outside the Seven Heavens and without the presence of the Almighty. Can pure love survive the growing manifestation of Evil when jealousy, revenge, deception and selfish control descend upon the Universe? How do Adam and Eve and their offspring fare in the new hostile environment of Earth, now that they have been sentenced to death? Will they ever gain the Almighty’s forgiveness and find redemption? What happens to the love between the Archangel Jarahmael and his Human mate Lillith after the War for the Heavens? Can the Archangel Jarahmael protect the Humans and Lillith, and from the designs of Luciferael and his Auxilium? Will Jarahmael keep the Almighty’s secrets safe from the fallen Angels? Will it call for his ultimate sacrifice?
~*~
Trailer
~*~
About the Author; John J. Higgins
John J. Higgins is an attorney and former statewide prosecutor who has had a multi-faceted career and life. He has worked on farms, performed firearm repairs, and refinished and sold antiques, all before he finished high school. In between pursuing his college studies, he supervised industrial finishing operations and assisted in developing a powder coating system. After college, he worked fulltime and attended law school at night. He also filmed rock stars and celebrities for public service announcements and produced and emceed a play that performed before audiences that totaled over 170,000. In his career as an attorney, he researched and wrote policy papers for governmental committees, drafted legislation, and revised statutes. In his role as a statewide prosecutor he was involved in some of the highest profile cases in his state, from prosecuting multiple and complex crime rings to homicides, including those committed by a serial killer. Among other things he does in his private life, he can scuba dive and pilot an airplane. An avid student of history and spiritual development, he lives in New Jersey in an old Victorian train station he converted into his residence.
He can be reached at jjhigginsesq@aol.com.
~*~
Find John J. Higgins
Amazon
Twitter
Website
~*~
Get In Exile (Book III)
You can get your copy of In Exile, Book III of The Archangel Jarahmael and the War to Conquer Heaven now by going HERE.
~*~
Summary of The Archangel Jarahmael and the War to Conquer Heaven: In Exile (Book III) by John J. Higgins
Even the driving force in the Almighty’s Universe can be turned from Good into Evil.IN EXILE, the third book of "The Archangel Jarahmael and the War to Conquer Heaven" Trilogy, chronicles what happens in the Universe when the mightiest Angels live outside the Seven Heavens and without the presence of the Almighty. Can pure love survive the growing manifestation of Evil when jealousy, revenge, deception and selfish control descend upon the Universe? How do Adam and Eve and their offspring fare in the new hostile environment of Earth, now that they have been sentenced to death? Will they ever gain the Almighty’s forgiveness and find redemption? What happens to the love between the Archangel Jarahmael and his Human mate Lillith after the War for the Heavens? Can the Archangel Jarahmael protect the Humans and Lillith, and from the designs of Luciferael and his Auxilium? Will Jarahmael keep the Almighty’s secrets safe from the fallen Angels? Will it call for his ultimate sacrifice?
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Trailer
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About the Author; John J. Higgins
John J. Higgins is an attorney and former statewide prosecutor who has had a multi-faceted career and life. He has worked on farms, performed firearm repairs, and refinished and sold antiques, all before he finished high school. In between pursuing his college studies, he supervised industrial finishing operations and assisted in developing a powder coating system. After college, he worked fulltime and attended law school at night. He also filmed rock stars and celebrities for public service announcements and produced and emceed a play that performed before audiences that totaled over 170,000. In his career as an attorney, he researched and wrote policy papers for governmental committees, drafted legislation, and revised statutes. In his role as a statewide prosecutor he was involved in some of the highest profile cases in his state, from prosecuting multiple and complex crime rings to homicides, including those committed by a serial killer. Among other things he does in his private life, he can scuba dive and pilot an airplane. An avid student of history and spiritual development, he lives in New Jersey in an old Victorian train station he converted into his residence.
He can be reached at jjhigginsesq@aol.com.
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Find John J. Higgins
Amazon
Website
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Get In Exile (Book III)
You can get your copy of In Exile, Book III of The Archangel Jarahmael and the War to Conquer Heaven now by going HERE.
September 14, 2013
Promo: Journey to a New Life by Lisa Bilbrey
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Summary of Journey to a New Life
Travis McCoy’s journey has led him down a road of changes where he found the love of his life and their child. Travis, Penelope, and Max have struggled during their time apart, found their way back home, and finally tied their lives together as a family. Now, Penelope and Travis find themselves on a new journey, one that leads them to the greatest journey of all.~*~
About the Author; Lisa Bilbrey
Lisa Bilbrey is a mom of three and has been married to her high school sweetheart since 1996. Finding a love in the written word, she started writing as a way to express herself. From the first word she wrote, she'd found her heart and soul. Always willing to learn, she's spends much of her time trying to improve as a storyteller.
In late 2011, Lisa opened Renaissance Romance Publishing with Michele Richard and Laura Braley.
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Find Lisa Bilbrey
Goodreads
Blog
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Renaissance Romance Publishing
About.me
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Giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Next Stop
September 15th, 2013
Review by N. Wood
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Previous Stop
September 13th, 2013
Review by Lindsey Gray
Review by Sarah Carroll
September 7, 2013
Promo & Excerpt: My Mr. Manny by Jennifer Garcia
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About My Mr. Manny
Mia Balducci misses her childhood days and yearns for the big, Italian family that she left behind in small town Massachusetts. At the tender age of sixteen, Mia moves with her bachelor father to Los Angeles, but no matter how many years pass, it never becomes home to her. The years spent living with her father aren’t easy, especially since she can’t stop thinking about what she once had. Her enrollment in the University of Southern California promises to bring exciting changes to her life, but Mia winds up with big problems instead. When she runs into an old friend from her old hometown of Winthrop, she gets swept up in nostalgia, and she soon loses herself in a quickly-progressing romance. When the fantasy falls apart, she is left to raise her precious little girl, Lucia, on her own. The demands of Mia’s work schedule and Lucia’s needs increase, and their lives become increasingly hectic. It is soon clear to Mia that she needs help. Luckily, her life-saving cousin saves the day and brings the mother and daughter a male nanny – their new “manny.”After losing his high-pressure job on Wall Street, Dominic Roberts wants to follow his dreams to have a family. He’s already one fiancée down, and there are no likely prospects for another. In order to find the family he so desperately wants, he finds himself getting into the manny business. Since he is fully qualified to provide child care and is eager to leave New York City behind, his sister-in-law is able to land him a job in California working for his first client – the beautiful and intriguing Mia Balducci.
Will Lucia like the new man in her mother's life? Will Mia? And will this new trio discover the happily ever after they all so desperately seek?
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Excerpt
I rolled over to face Dominic and he began to stir. I watched him breathe and took inventory of his precious face. His lashes were thick and short against his cheek. The stubble on his face had thickened a bit more and his lips stuck out in a pout. I pecked them and his eyes opened.“Good morning, sleeping beauty,” I said as he stretched and yawned. He scratched at his stubble and rubbed his eyes. He was adorable in the morning.“Mhmmm, it is a good morning,” he said with a sleep-coated voice. He wrapped and tightened his arms around me and then squeezed. “A very good morning.”“I need to get up and get ready for work. Lucia will be up in a bit. But ...” I began to say.“What’s wrong?”I exhaled a deep breath. “No, nothing’s wrong, but ... well I really want you to move into my room now. Too soon?” I wasn’t afraid he’d say no, but for some reason I felt strange asking him that.He scoffed. “Did you think I was going to sleep in my room after last night? I had the best night of my life” he said while peppering soft, slow kisses on my face.“It was my best night, too, baby.” I kissed him one more time and got up. “So, it’s official then. You’re moving in here and we’re a real couple.” I jerked my head in a nod to emphasize my statement.He rolled on top of me, pinning me down on the bed. “I thought it was a given, Mia. You’re stuck with me forever now. I hope you can handle me.” He laughed.“Mhmmm, I can handle you all right. I just hope you can handle me.” I kissed his lips.
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About the Author, Jennifer Garcia
Jennifer Garcia’s (aka Forbes Arnone) love of travel began when she went to the West Coast to visit her father at the age of three. Her home until she was sixteen was a small coastal town near Boston. She currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband, two sons, and two dogs.Her lifelong love for reading and writing was put aside for many years while she made her way in the world and nurtured her young family. Even though she is older, and life never seems to settle, she’s finding her way while attending college full-time in pursuit of a B.A. in English Literature. She also runs a business, and is still caring for her family. Believing she can do it all, with the help of her family, she worked on her first novel during the late hours of the night while balancing the rest of her life during the day. Her hard work paid off, as her first novel, My Mr. Manny, will be published August 2013.
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Find Jennifer Garcia
About.Me
Authorsdb
Independent Author Network
Amazon (Forbes Arnone)
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Giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway
September 4, 2013
Review: Alaskan Ambush by J.J. Ellis
So thrilled to be reviewing another of Ellis's novels! In a series, no less! I'm also sharing this from her Facebook page:
Check out this great new romance series on sale Sept. 4-10! Love, family, passion, laughs, heartbreak, and a whole lot of fun! Each book is only .99 cents. (Books 1-3, four and five are still to come!) Find the books here!
Read on, my dears!
Review of Alaskan Ambush by J.J. Ellis
*As always, please remember that novel reviews are based solely on story content and plot, and not on other factors such as length, grammar, etc.
A mere week ago I reviewed Virgin Voyage by J.J. Ellis. It was wonderful! Now, for starters, here is one did read Virgin Voyage first, because I think novels should be read in the order they're written, I didn't need to. I could have thoroughly enjoyed Alaskan Ambush without ever knowing Virgin Voyage even existed. To me, that says a lot about a writer and their abilities. The two books do not rely on one another's plots, and instead focus around different couples entirely. I read another series like this once (not reviewed), and I just loved how the novels intertwined so lightly.
thing I LOVE about this series. Though I
Ellis has certainly done it again with Alaskan Ambush. Another sweet tale, with a bit of tragedy in the mix, I wasn't able to put down Olivia and Alex's story. Goal and career driven Olivia pushed free spirited and under-achieving (by her standards) Alex as far away as she could years prior. But her ever-plotting mother just happens to arrange it so when they go on the family vacation cruise to Alaska Olivia ends up on a private plane tour. A private plane tour through a company now owned by Alex.
If you want to know if the change of Alex's lifestyle is enough to pull Olivia from her lavish life in the big city, you'll have to pick up your own copy of Alaskan Ambush.
If you haven't heard of the Sunset Destiny Romances yet, I strongly urge you to go out and purchase the first novel, Virgin Voyages, as soon as possible! It just so happens that ALL THREE of the available novels in the Sunset Destiny Romances are on sale for a mere ninety-nine cent, yes $0.99, through Kindle right now! Don't own a Kindle, you say? Well, the Kindle for PC app is free, and will allow you to read these amazing novels!
As of right now there are three books available in the Sunset Destiny Romances. The first is Virgin Voyage, the second is Alaskan Ambush, and the third is Ellis's most recent publication, Stormy Seas.
About Alaskan Ambush
-Olivia Mannon had a perfect life. She'd made sure of it. Hard work and perseverance had her climbing the ladder of success and she was only a few years away from meeting her ultimate goal. A new house on the golf course or maybe overlooking the lake was next in her sights and nothing would stop her from getting it. Her sacrifices for a sense of stability and peace of mind were many, including true happiness and Alex, the love of her life.
-Alex Paige had a 'great' life. Best of all, he didn't have to be locked up in an office or a storefront all day. He truly felt free flying float planes through the Alaskan wilderness and running the tour business his uncle left him. There was only one thing missing, the one thing he could never have, the love of his life, Olivia.
-Charlotte Mannon was determined to help her daughter find true happiness and give up her warped sense of what life should be. And she knew, only one man could accomplish the near impossible task. Some research, a tour brochure and a phone call starts her plan in motion. Alex and Olivia will meet again during the family's time on the Sunset Destiny cruise ship.
-Will Olivia be able to merge her "suite at a five star resort" lifestyle with Alex's "camp outdoors" way of life? Or will they lose each other all over again...this time for good.
-Meet the entire Mannon and Paige families and fall in love with a new kind of romance. Real characters, real situations. Extraordinary passion. True love. An Adult Romance with family, drama, comedy, sex, tragedy, and most of all, love. (May not be suitable for all readers - adult content.)
Find the Sunset Destiny Romances
Per Ellis, you can find all the links for the Sunset Destiny Romances by going HERE.
About J.J. Ellis
JJ Ellis is first and foremost a mom to five kids, four girls and one boy, ranging in age from 2-17. After that, she is a physically limited wife, blogger and now an author. She holds a degree in Communication Studies (Public Relations) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas but never thought she would chose writing as a career, especially at the age of 42. She once wanted to be a publicist in the entertainment industry, but never a writer. Then one day when she was in her mid thirties she was going through what can only be described as an early 'midlife crisis' and ideas just started to come to her and she felt compelled to write them down. She finished her first book relatively quickly, but life got in the way and it took her eight years to revisit it and then publish her first novel. She can honestly say that now she is finally right where she wants to be.
JJ has been married to her college sweetheart (and romance novel hero) for eighteen and a half years and they reside in Casper, WY with their kids and one crazy mutt named Kreuger. She enjoys reading, writing, blogging, computing, and graphic design. She will try anything that will allow her creativity to be released.
Find J.J. Ellis
Website
Facebook
Check out this great new romance series on sale Sept. 4-10! Love, family, passion, laughs, heartbreak, and a whole lot of fun! Each book is only .99 cents. (Books 1-3, four and five are still to come!) Find the books here!
Read on, my dears!
Review of Alaskan Ambush by J.J. Ellis
*As always, please remember that novel reviews are based solely on story content and plot, and not on other factors such as length, grammar, etc.
A mere week ago I reviewed Virgin Voyage by J.J. Ellis. It was wonderful! Now, for starters, here is one did read Virgin Voyage first, because I think novels should be read in the order they're written, I didn't need to. I could have thoroughly enjoyed Alaskan Ambush without ever knowing Virgin Voyage even existed. To me, that says a lot about a writer and their abilities. The two books do not rely on one another's plots, and instead focus around different couples entirely. I read another series like this once (not reviewed), and I just loved how the novels intertwined so lightly.
thing I LOVE about this series. Though I
Ellis has certainly done it again with Alaskan Ambush. Another sweet tale, with a bit of tragedy in the mix, I wasn't able to put down Olivia and Alex's story. Goal and career driven Olivia pushed free spirited and under-achieving (by her standards) Alex as far away as she could years prior. But her ever-plotting mother just happens to arrange it so when they go on the family vacation cruise to Alaska Olivia ends up on a private plane tour. A private plane tour through a company now owned by Alex.
If you want to know if the change of Alex's lifestyle is enough to pull Olivia from her lavish life in the big city, you'll have to pick up your own copy of Alaskan Ambush.
If you haven't heard of the Sunset Destiny Romances yet, I strongly urge you to go out and purchase the first novel, Virgin Voyages, as soon as possible! It just so happens that ALL THREE of the available novels in the Sunset Destiny Romances are on sale for a mere ninety-nine cent, yes $0.99, through Kindle right now! Don't own a Kindle, you say? Well, the Kindle for PC app is free, and will allow you to read these amazing novels!
As of right now there are three books available in the Sunset Destiny Romances. The first is Virgin Voyage, the second is Alaskan Ambush, and the third is Ellis's most recent publication, Stormy Seas.
About Alaskan Ambush
-Olivia Mannon had a perfect life. She'd made sure of it. Hard work and perseverance had her climbing the ladder of success and she was only a few years away from meeting her ultimate goal. A new house on the golf course or maybe overlooking the lake was next in her sights and nothing would stop her from getting it. Her sacrifices for a sense of stability and peace of mind were many, including true happiness and Alex, the love of her life.
-Alex Paige had a 'great' life. Best of all, he didn't have to be locked up in an office or a storefront all day. He truly felt free flying float planes through the Alaskan wilderness and running the tour business his uncle left him. There was only one thing missing, the one thing he could never have, the love of his life, Olivia.
-Charlotte Mannon was determined to help her daughter find true happiness and give up her warped sense of what life should be. And she knew, only one man could accomplish the near impossible task. Some research, a tour brochure and a phone call starts her plan in motion. Alex and Olivia will meet again during the family's time on the Sunset Destiny cruise ship.
-Will Olivia be able to merge her "suite at a five star resort" lifestyle with Alex's "camp outdoors" way of life? Or will they lose each other all over again...this time for good.
-Meet the entire Mannon and Paige families and fall in love with a new kind of romance. Real characters, real situations. Extraordinary passion. True love. An Adult Romance with family, drama, comedy, sex, tragedy, and most of all, love. (May not be suitable for all readers - adult content.)
Find the Sunset Destiny Romances
Per Ellis, you can find all the links for the Sunset Destiny Romances by going HERE.
About J.J. Ellis
JJ Ellis is first and foremost a mom to five kids, four girls and one boy, ranging in age from 2-17. After that, she is a physically limited wife, blogger and now an author. She holds a degree in Communication Studies (Public Relations) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas but never thought she would chose writing as a career, especially at the age of 42. She once wanted to be a publicist in the entertainment industry, but never a writer. Then one day when she was in her mid thirties she was going through what can only be described as an early 'midlife crisis' and ideas just started to come to her and she felt compelled to write them down. She finished her first book relatively quickly, but life got in the way and it took her eight years to revisit it and then publish her first novel. She can honestly say that now she is finally right where she wants to be.
JJ has been married to her college sweetheart (and romance novel hero) for eighteen and a half years and they reside in Casper, WY with their kids and one crazy mutt named Kreuger. She enjoys reading, writing, blogging, computing, and graphic design. She will try anything that will allow her creativity to be released.
Find J.J. Ellis
Website
September 2, 2013
A Quick Notice!
Hey everyone!
Just a quick notice for today! For starters, don't forget to check out my new Reviews and Interviews page. I've made the forms smoother and easier to use for all who might!
Second, things will be slow for me this month, as I am preparing for a writers conference that I will be appearing as a vendor at towards the end of September! I will not be accepting additional reviews or interview requests during this time. Never fear, though! September is still filled with lots of goodies to keep you satisfied! If posts seem sparse, though, this is why!
Third, tune back in Wednesday for a review of J.J. Ellis's Alaskan Ambush the second novel in the Sunset Destiny Romances.
Just a quick notice for today! For starters, don't forget to check out my new Reviews and Interviews page. I've made the forms smoother and easier to use for all who might!
Second, things will be slow for me this month, as I am preparing for a writers conference that I will be appearing as a vendor at towards the end of September! I will not be accepting additional reviews or interview requests during this time. Never fear, though! September is still filled with lots of goodies to keep you satisfied! If posts seem sparse, though, this is why!
Third, tune back in Wednesday for a review of J.J. Ellis's Alaskan Ambush the second novel in the Sunset Destiny Romances.
August 31, 2013
Review: Ardor
Today I will be reviewing Elena M. Reyes's Ardor! Usually my reviews go out around eight am, but we had a family emergency yesterday that involved me being at the ER until three this morning. Everyone is fine, but it certainly set me back a bit!
Review of Ardor by Elena M. Reyes
Let me start off by saying this novel is NOT for the faint of heart. Ardor is an erotica in the truest sense of Ardor doesn't waste any time jumping right on in to the thick of things. This can be a good and a bad thing for some. While I thoroughly enjoyed that the novel maintained an steady reading pace the entire length of it, sometimes while reading I did feel like I'd missed something because the scene had changed.
the word.
The initial conflict of the main character is an interesting one, as he's sworn off love due to finding his now ex-wife in bed with her supposedly gay best friend. It's an interesting twist of scenario, as both the ex-wife and main character work within the same company. Not only that, but our main character's newest love interest becomes a member of the same company. I would have liked to seen more of this conflict before the rest of the novel began, and the way it affected the main character before the new love interest was introduced, but his inner turmoil is still evident through the novel.
A quick, good evening read for those who enjoy erotica novels. I do warn that there is quite the amount of foul language, and if that is not your cuppa, then don't say you weren't warned!
Find Ardor
Amazon Kindle
About the Author, Elena M. Reyes
Elena M. Reyes was born and raised in Miami Florida. She is the epitome of a Floridian and if she could live in her beloved flip-flops, she would.
As a small child, she was always intrigued with all forms of art—whether it was dancing to island rhythms, or painting with any medium she could get her hands on. Her first taste of writing came to her during her fifth grade year when her class was prompted to participate in the D. A. R. E. Program and write an essay on what they’d learned.
Her passion for reading over the years has amassed her with hours of pleasure. It wasn't until she stumbled upon fanfiction that her thirst to write overtook her world. She now resides in Central Florida with her husband and son, spending all her down time letting her creativity flow and letting her characters grow.
Find Elena M. Reyes
Website
Facebook
Goodreads
Twitter
Review of Ardor by Elena M. Reyes
Let me start off by saying this novel is NOT for the faint of heart. Ardor is an erotica in the truest sense of Ardor doesn't waste any time jumping right on in to the thick of things. This can be a good and a bad thing for some. While I thoroughly enjoyed that the novel maintained an steady reading pace the entire length of it, sometimes while reading I did feel like I'd missed something because the scene had changed.the word.
The initial conflict of the main character is an interesting one, as he's sworn off love due to finding his now ex-wife in bed with her supposedly gay best friend. It's an interesting twist of scenario, as both the ex-wife and main character work within the same company. Not only that, but our main character's newest love interest becomes a member of the same company. I would have liked to seen more of this conflict before the rest of the novel began, and the way it affected the main character before the new love interest was introduced, but his inner turmoil is still evident through the novel.
A quick, good evening read for those who enjoy erotica novels. I do warn that there is quite the amount of foul language, and if that is not your cuppa, then don't say you weren't warned!
Find Ardor
Amazon Kindle
About the Author, Elena M. Reyes
Elena M. Reyes was born and raised in Miami Florida. She is the epitome of a Floridian and if she could live in her beloved flip-flops, she would.As a small child, she was always intrigued with all forms of art—whether it was dancing to island rhythms, or painting with any medium she could get her hands on. Her first taste of writing came to her during her fifth grade year when her class was prompted to participate in the D. A. R. E. Program and write an essay on what they’d learned.
Her passion for reading over the years has amassed her with hours of pleasure. It wasn't until she stumbled upon fanfiction that her thirst to write overtook her world. She now resides in Central Florida with her husband and son, spending all her down time letting her creativity flow and letting her characters grow.
Find Elena M. Reyes
Website
Goodreads
