Lynelle Clark's Blog, page 110
October 25, 2013
Book Barrage for Hazardous Unions by Kat Flannery and Alison Bruce. Excerpts and Giveaway are available.
Bestselling western romance authors, Kat Flannery and Alison Bruce take you on an exciting journey with the release of HAZARDOUS UNIONS, Two Tales of a Civil War Christmas.
Title: Hazardous UnionsAuthor: Kat Flannery and Alison BruceGenres: Historical Romance, Western RomanceCategories: Holiday-Themed, Military, Mystery/ThrillerPublisher: Imajin Books Release Date: 9/7/2013Word Count/Length: 150 pages
Goodreads link:
Purchase link: Amazon
Twin sisters separated by war, bound by love…
After the death of their father, twin sisters Maggie and Matty Becker are forced to take positions with officers’ families at a nearby fort. When the southern states secede, the twins are separated, and they find themselves on opposite sides of America’s bloodiest war.
In the south, Maggie travels with the Hamiltons to Bellevue, a plantation in west Tennessee. When Major Hamilton is captured, it is up to Maggie to hold things together and deal with the Union cavalry troop that winters at Bellevue. Racism, politics and a matchmaking stepmother test Maggie’s resourcefulness as she fights for Bellevue, a wounded Confederate officer and the affections of the Union commander.
In the north, Matty discovers an incriminating letter in General Worthington’s office, and soon she is on the run. With no one to turn to for help, she drugs the wealthy Colonel Cole Black and marries him, in hopes of getting the letter to his father, the governor of Michigan. But Cole is not happy about being married, and Matty’s life becomes all about survival.
Two unforgettable stories of courage, strength and honor
Fall 1862.
The Yankees were coming.We'd seen the signs days ago. News was, most of west Tennesseehad fallen under Union control. Thaddeus scouted them out while hunting rabbits in the brush that bordered the plantation's cotton fields. We'd prepared as best we could as fast as we could, and now I was waiting for them on the front veranda of Bellevue."Why me?""Someone has to meet them, Miss Maggie," Mammy said, setting out tea things as if the neighbors were coming to call. "Mrs. Hamilton hasn't got your nerve and Miss Patience wouldn't be a lick of good even if she would come downstairs.""I'm just a servant," I objected half-heartedly."Yeah, like Tad here is just a dumb nigger." Mammy cocked her head to one side and a moment later I heard the faint but shrill whistle of the kettle. She smoothed the skirt of her greying white pinny over her faded grey dress. Eventually, the two garments were going to match. "Watch out for her, boy," she said, before heading around the corner of the wraparound porch toward the kitchen door.Only Mammy could get away with calling Thaddeus "boy" or "nigger" without coming under the resolute stare of a man who looked like he could have been carved out of a huge block of obsidian. Mammy was his aunt and had raised him, along with Major Hamilton, from nursery age. The boys had been more like brothers than master and slave, Mammy said, until Master Ned was sent off to West Point to be made an officer and a gentleman. It was hard for me to reconcile her picture of Master Ned with the aloof man who had employed me to take care of his wife.I was barely sixteen when I was hired by the Captain, now Major Hamilton. Some days I felt that I was twice that age now, instead of just a couple of years older. Today, watching the Union contingent approach, I felt like that frightened girl again. I took small comfort in the pair of pistols hidden in the pockets of my crinoline. Knowing that Thaddeus was watching over me from the shadows, armed to the teeth, was more reassuring.Half a dozen hard looking men approached the house. Four of them spread out, some facing us, some partly turned to keep an eye on the out buildings. Two of them rode up the path towards the porch. I felt like I was being ringed in by a pack of hungry wolves. The leader of the pack rode up to the bottom of the front steps.Wolfish was a description that fit him. Hard muscled, wary eyes, shaggy dark hair spiking out from his cap, he looked old with experience and young in years. His uniform had seen better days and his beard was untrimmed, but it appeared that he had made some effort to clean up before approaching the house. That was a good sign.I had also made an effort for appearances sake. Instead of my usual long braid, I had twisted my blonde hair into knot and allowed tendrils to fall free on either side of my face. I was wearing one of the calico dresses Mrs. Hamilton bought me in St. Louis. She wanted to make it clear that I was no mere servant any more. I was using it today for similar reasons."Afternoon, ma'am. I'm Captain Seth Stone. I have a cavalry troop under my command that needs to set up quarters for the winter.""I see." My voice was steady, but I could feel my knees wobble beneath my skirts. "And?""And this looks like a good place to stay.""How many are you expecting us to accommodate?"I heard a chuckle from one of his men. It was stifled with a sharp look from the grim-faced sergeant behind the captain."Not so many as there should be," the Captain said, ignoring the interruption. "If you'd oblige me by asking your man to lay down his arms, maybe we can discuss terms."“Gott hilf mir,” I prayed, but held my ground. "You have your protectors, Captain. I have mine."With a hand gesture, he signaled his men and they all dismounted as neatly as if they were on parade. Then he dismounted and held out his reins to the sergeant."Thaddeus, would you lead these troopers and their horses to water?"Thaddeus stepped out of the shadows, empty handed. "Yes, miss."The two men passed on the stairs. Thaddeus was significantly taller and broader than the Union officer and was doing his best guard dog imitation, but the Captain didn't flinch when they passed. He did keep his eye on Thaddeus until he was in the range of his own men. Then he turned his attention back to me and I lifted my head up to make eye-contact. He may not have been as tall as Thaddeus, but he was not a small man and I am on the short side for a woman.Having asserted his dominance, he backed up a step."I understand this is the Hamiltonhome. Are you Mrs. Hamilton?""No, sir. I am Magrethe Becker, Mrs. Hamilton's companion."His eyes widened. "Maybe I should be speaking to the lady of the house.""Mrs. Hamilton is indisposed and asked me to..." I stopped, looking for the right word. Meet with him? That sounded too friendly. Deal with him? Almost rude. "Negotiate terms with you."He let out a short bark of laughter."My terms are simple, Miss Becker. I need to winter seventy men and three officers, plus myself. It'll be tight, but this place looks like it has enough room with the house and out buildings. We'll need food and fodder of course. You can either offer, or I will take."I shook my head. "No."He barked out a longer laugh. "What makes you think you're in the position to say no?""Twelve wounded union soldiers in our care, Captain Stone."
Matty by Kat Flannery (www.katflannery-author.com)
Fort Wayne, MichiganDecember 1862
What had she done? Matty Becker was going to hell, and there'd be no one to save her. A loud snore echoed from the other room. She peeked around the corner and caught a glimpse of Colonel Black's stocking feet. She'd burn for sure. She glanced at the paper she held and groaned. She was a horrible, devious, scheming letch. Maggie wouldn't be pleased. Maggie wasn't here. Another snore blew into the kitchen and she placed her head onto the table banging her forehead twice. There was no turning back now.Last night she'd pushed aside her conscience and let fear guide her. For her plan to work, she'd have to throw all sense to the dogs, not that she hadn't done so already by following through with the blasted thing. She couldn't fail now. If her family found out what she'd done they'd never forgive her. Worse yet, if Colonel Black found out she'd be locked behind bars, a fate far better than the one that got her in this mess to begin with.She placed the paper on the table and went into the bedroom. Colonel Black lay on the bed with his clothes stripped off and tossed about the floor. He'd been out for nine hours and would wake any minute. Matty stood, pushed all thoughts of reason from her mind and removed her dress, corset and pantaloons. Her face heated and the room spun. He rolled over and she jumped into the bed next to him, pretending to sleep. She knew the moment he'd woken. The bed stilled and she couldn't breathe the air was so stiff."What the hell?" He sat up and she knew the instant he saw her. "Son of a bitch."She felt his nudge once, twice and now a shove almost knocking her from the bed."Wake the hell up," he growled.She squeezed her eyes closed and willed strength into her soul so she could face the dark Colonel. She rolled over pretending to wipe the sleep from her eyes."Who are you?" He placed his head in his hands. She'd bet he had one heck of a headache."Your wife," she said."The hell you are." He shot out of bed without grabbing the sheet, and she averted her eyes."Please cover yourself." She held up the sheet and he ripped it from her hand. "The marriage license is in the kitchen on the table if you do not believe me."She watched as he grabbed his head and closed his eyes. The heavy dose of laudanum she'd placed in his drink the night before had done the trick and it wasn't but a mere suggestion they marry that the Colonel jumped to the challenge. Soon they were standing in the dining room in front of a preacher. Words were spoken—words she thought to say with someone she loved, someone who'd wanted her. Her stomach lurched and her mouth watered with the urge to vomit."How did this happen?" he asked sitting on the end of the bed."Mrs. Worthington sent me to see if you needed anything.""I was drinking." He looked at her. "I was drunk."She shrugged.He stood holding the sheet tight to his midsection.She couldn't help but notice the rippled stomach and defined muscles on his chest."We can annul. I had too much to drink. My head wasn't clear."She shook her head.He frowned."We have consummated." A lie of course but she was desperate.His mouth fell open. A moment she knew he'd not remember. After the preacher left, she'd taken him to the bedroom where he passed out before hitting the bed."Impossible. I'd remember that."She shook her head again praying he'd buy the fib.He pulled on his pants and dress shirt. "I don't even know you. Why in hell would I marry you?""My name is Matty Beck—Black. I was employed with the Worthington's. You've come to dinner several times."His brown eyes lit with recognition. "You're the house maid.""Yes.""I married a maid?"The words stung and she turned from him so he wouldn't see the disappointment upon her face."Why would you marry me if I was into the spirits?""You seemed fine to me."He took a step toward her. "Why would you marry me at all when you don't even know me?"She gripped the blanket on the bed. "You…you said kind words, and I…I believed them."How desperate are you to marry a stranger?" he yelled. "You found out who my father is. You want money. You tricked me."Well, he got the last one right, but the first two irritated her. She was not the kind of person to marry for money. Really, who did he think she was?"Sorry to disappoint you but I refused my inheritance years ago.""If you mean to say that I could not find myself a suitable husband because I am a maid, then you're wrong.""That is exactly what I am saying Miss—""Black.""The hell it is."He went into the kitchen picked up the marriage license and stared at it.Matty dressed quickly and inched into the room. Confusion pulled at his features and she began to feel sorry for him. This was her fault. She'd planned this. Now she had to continue telling the lie she'd told. She glanced outside and shivered. Boldness, be my tongue. Shakespeare's words echoed in her mind. It was worth it. She'd been living in fear for a week. Colonel Black had been her saviour, and she risked a life full of love and happiness for this—a lie in which she'd speak for the rest of her life. She swallowed back the lump in her throat and willed the tears not to fall."Why can't I remember?" He glanced at her. "And why in hell would I marry you?"
Author bios:
Alison Bruce has had many careers and writing has always been one of them. Copywriter, editor and graphic designer since 1992, Alison has also been a comic book store manager, small press publisher, webmaster and arithmetically challenged bookkeeper. She is the author of mystery, suspense and historical romance novels.
Website: http://www.alisonbruce.caBlog: http://alisonebruce.blogspot.caTwitter: https://twitter.com/alisonebruceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/alisonbruce.books
Kat Flannery’s love of history shows in the novels she writes. She is an avid reader of historical, suspense, paranormal, and romance. When not researching for her next book, Kat can be found running her three sons to hockey and lacrosse. She’s been published in numerous periodicals. This is Kat’s third book and she is hard at work on her next.
Website: www.katflannery-author.com
Blog: www.kat-scratch.blogspot.caTwitter: https://twitter.com/katflannery1Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kat-Flannery/131065966999142
http://bookpromotions.literarynook.com/
Giveaway: Author is giving away 2 Kindle copies of "Lakota Honor"
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Title: Hazardous UnionsAuthor: Kat Flannery and Alison BruceGenres: Historical Romance, Western RomanceCategories: Holiday-Themed, Military, Mystery/ThrillerPublisher: Imajin Books Release Date: 9/7/2013Word Count/Length: 150 pages
Goodreads link:
Purchase link: Amazon
Twin sisters separated by war, bound by love…
After the death of their father, twin sisters Maggie and Matty Becker are forced to take positions with officers’ families at a nearby fort. When the southern states secede, the twins are separated, and they find themselves on opposite sides of America’s bloodiest war.
In the south, Maggie travels with the Hamiltons to Bellevue, a plantation in west Tennessee. When Major Hamilton is captured, it is up to Maggie to hold things together and deal with the Union cavalry troop that winters at Bellevue. Racism, politics and a matchmaking stepmother test Maggie’s resourcefulness as she fights for Bellevue, a wounded Confederate officer and the affections of the Union commander.
In the north, Matty discovers an incriminating letter in General Worthington’s office, and soon she is on the run. With no one to turn to for help, she drugs the wealthy Colonel Cole Black and marries him, in hopes of getting the letter to his father, the governor of Michigan. But Cole is not happy about being married, and Matty’s life becomes all about survival.
Two unforgettable stories of courage, strength and honor
Reviews: “You’ll sigh with pleasure as you finish each story” ~ Caroline Clemmons, author of Bluebonnet Bride “Stories that play on your senses like a sonata. A must read!” ~ Jacquie Rogers, award-winning author of Much Ado About Madams “Wonderfully entertaining and well-written, with engaging characters…delightful!” ~ Charlene Raddon, author of To Have and To Hold
ExcerptsMaggie by Alison Bruce (www.alisonbruce.ca)
Fall 1862.
The Yankees were coming.We'd seen the signs days ago. News was, most of west Tennesseehad fallen under Union control. Thaddeus scouted them out while hunting rabbits in the brush that bordered the plantation's cotton fields. We'd prepared as best we could as fast as we could, and now I was waiting for them on the front veranda of Bellevue."Why me?""Someone has to meet them, Miss Maggie," Mammy said, setting out tea things as if the neighbors were coming to call. "Mrs. Hamilton hasn't got your nerve and Miss Patience wouldn't be a lick of good even if she would come downstairs.""I'm just a servant," I objected half-heartedly."Yeah, like Tad here is just a dumb nigger." Mammy cocked her head to one side and a moment later I heard the faint but shrill whistle of the kettle. She smoothed the skirt of her greying white pinny over her faded grey dress. Eventually, the two garments were going to match. "Watch out for her, boy," she said, before heading around the corner of the wraparound porch toward the kitchen door.Only Mammy could get away with calling Thaddeus "boy" or "nigger" without coming under the resolute stare of a man who looked like he could have been carved out of a huge block of obsidian. Mammy was his aunt and had raised him, along with Major Hamilton, from nursery age. The boys had been more like brothers than master and slave, Mammy said, until Master Ned was sent off to West Point to be made an officer and a gentleman. It was hard for me to reconcile her picture of Master Ned with the aloof man who had employed me to take care of his wife.I was barely sixteen when I was hired by the Captain, now Major Hamilton. Some days I felt that I was twice that age now, instead of just a couple of years older. Today, watching the Union contingent approach, I felt like that frightened girl again. I took small comfort in the pair of pistols hidden in the pockets of my crinoline. Knowing that Thaddeus was watching over me from the shadows, armed to the teeth, was more reassuring.Half a dozen hard looking men approached the house. Four of them spread out, some facing us, some partly turned to keep an eye on the out buildings. Two of them rode up the path towards the porch. I felt like I was being ringed in by a pack of hungry wolves. The leader of the pack rode up to the bottom of the front steps.Wolfish was a description that fit him. Hard muscled, wary eyes, shaggy dark hair spiking out from his cap, he looked old with experience and young in years. His uniform had seen better days and his beard was untrimmed, but it appeared that he had made some effort to clean up before approaching the house. That was a good sign.I had also made an effort for appearances sake. Instead of my usual long braid, I had twisted my blonde hair into knot and allowed tendrils to fall free on either side of my face. I was wearing one of the calico dresses Mrs. Hamilton bought me in St. Louis. She wanted to make it clear that I was no mere servant any more. I was using it today for similar reasons."Afternoon, ma'am. I'm Captain Seth Stone. I have a cavalry troop under my command that needs to set up quarters for the winter.""I see." My voice was steady, but I could feel my knees wobble beneath my skirts. "And?""And this looks like a good place to stay.""How many are you expecting us to accommodate?"I heard a chuckle from one of his men. It was stifled with a sharp look from the grim-faced sergeant behind the captain."Not so many as there should be," the Captain said, ignoring the interruption. "If you'd oblige me by asking your man to lay down his arms, maybe we can discuss terms."“Gott hilf mir,” I prayed, but held my ground. "You have your protectors, Captain. I have mine."With a hand gesture, he signaled his men and they all dismounted as neatly as if they were on parade. Then he dismounted and held out his reins to the sergeant."Thaddeus, would you lead these troopers and their horses to water?"Thaddeus stepped out of the shadows, empty handed. "Yes, miss."The two men passed on the stairs. Thaddeus was significantly taller and broader than the Union officer and was doing his best guard dog imitation, but the Captain didn't flinch when they passed. He did keep his eye on Thaddeus until he was in the range of his own men. Then he turned his attention back to me and I lifted my head up to make eye-contact. He may not have been as tall as Thaddeus, but he was not a small man and I am on the short side for a woman.Having asserted his dominance, he backed up a step."I understand this is the Hamiltonhome. Are you Mrs. Hamilton?""No, sir. I am Magrethe Becker, Mrs. Hamilton's companion."His eyes widened. "Maybe I should be speaking to the lady of the house.""Mrs. Hamilton is indisposed and asked me to..." I stopped, looking for the right word. Meet with him? That sounded too friendly. Deal with him? Almost rude. "Negotiate terms with you."He let out a short bark of laughter."My terms are simple, Miss Becker. I need to winter seventy men and three officers, plus myself. It'll be tight, but this place looks like it has enough room with the house and out buildings. We'll need food and fodder of course. You can either offer, or I will take."I shook my head. "No."He barked out a longer laugh. "What makes you think you're in the position to say no?""Twelve wounded union soldiers in our care, Captain Stone."
Matty by Kat Flannery (www.katflannery-author.com)
Fort Wayne, MichiganDecember 1862
What had she done? Matty Becker was going to hell, and there'd be no one to save her. A loud snore echoed from the other room. She peeked around the corner and caught a glimpse of Colonel Black's stocking feet. She'd burn for sure. She glanced at the paper she held and groaned. She was a horrible, devious, scheming letch. Maggie wouldn't be pleased. Maggie wasn't here. Another snore blew into the kitchen and she placed her head onto the table banging her forehead twice. There was no turning back now.Last night she'd pushed aside her conscience and let fear guide her. For her plan to work, she'd have to throw all sense to the dogs, not that she hadn't done so already by following through with the blasted thing. She couldn't fail now. If her family found out what she'd done they'd never forgive her. Worse yet, if Colonel Black found out she'd be locked behind bars, a fate far better than the one that got her in this mess to begin with.She placed the paper on the table and went into the bedroom. Colonel Black lay on the bed with his clothes stripped off and tossed about the floor. He'd been out for nine hours and would wake any minute. Matty stood, pushed all thoughts of reason from her mind and removed her dress, corset and pantaloons. Her face heated and the room spun. He rolled over and she jumped into the bed next to him, pretending to sleep. She knew the moment he'd woken. The bed stilled and she couldn't breathe the air was so stiff."What the hell?" He sat up and she knew the instant he saw her. "Son of a bitch."She felt his nudge once, twice and now a shove almost knocking her from the bed."Wake the hell up," he growled.She squeezed her eyes closed and willed strength into her soul so she could face the dark Colonel. She rolled over pretending to wipe the sleep from her eyes."Who are you?" He placed his head in his hands. She'd bet he had one heck of a headache."Your wife," she said."The hell you are." He shot out of bed without grabbing the sheet, and she averted her eyes."Please cover yourself." She held up the sheet and he ripped it from her hand. "The marriage license is in the kitchen on the table if you do not believe me."She watched as he grabbed his head and closed his eyes. The heavy dose of laudanum she'd placed in his drink the night before had done the trick and it wasn't but a mere suggestion they marry that the Colonel jumped to the challenge. Soon they were standing in the dining room in front of a preacher. Words were spoken—words she thought to say with someone she loved, someone who'd wanted her. Her stomach lurched and her mouth watered with the urge to vomit."How did this happen?" he asked sitting on the end of the bed."Mrs. Worthington sent me to see if you needed anything.""I was drinking." He looked at her. "I was drunk."She shrugged.He stood holding the sheet tight to his midsection.She couldn't help but notice the rippled stomach and defined muscles on his chest."We can annul. I had too much to drink. My head wasn't clear."She shook her head.He frowned."We have consummated." A lie of course but she was desperate.His mouth fell open. A moment she knew he'd not remember. After the preacher left, she'd taken him to the bedroom where he passed out before hitting the bed."Impossible. I'd remember that."She shook her head again praying he'd buy the fib.He pulled on his pants and dress shirt. "I don't even know you. Why in hell would I marry you?""My name is Matty Beck—Black. I was employed with the Worthington's. You've come to dinner several times."His brown eyes lit with recognition. "You're the house maid.""Yes.""I married a maid?"The words stung and she turned from him so he wouldn't see the disappointment upon her face."Why would you marry me if I was into the spirits?""You seemed fine to me."He took a step toward her. "Why would you marry me at all when you don't even know me?"She gripped the blanket on the bed. "You…you said kind words, and I…I believed them."How desperate are you to marry a stranger?" he yelled. "You found out who my father is. You want money. You tricked me."Well, he got the last one right, but the first two irritated her. She was not the kind of person to marry for money. Really, who did he think she was?"Sorry to disappoint you but I refused my inheritance years ago.""If you mean to say that I could not find myself a suitable husband because I am a maid, then you're wrong.""That is exactly what I am saying Miss—""Black.""The hell it is."He went into the kitchen picked up the marriage license and stared at it.Matty dressed quickly and inched into the room. Confusion pulled at his features and she began to feel sorry for him. This was her fault. She'd planned this. Now she had to continue telling the lie she'd told. She glanced outside and shivered. Boldness, be my tongue. Shakespeare's words echoed in her mind. It was worth it. She'd been living in fear for a week. Colonel Black had been her saviour, and she risked a life full of love and happiness for this—a lie in which she'd speak for the rest of her life. She swallowed back the lump in her throat and willed the tears not to fall."Why can't I remember?" He glanced at her. "And why in hell would I marry you?"
Author bios:
Alison Bruce has had many careers and writing has always been one of them. Copywriter, editor and graphic designer since 1992, Alison has also been a comic book store manager, small press publisher, webmaster and arithmetically challenged bookkeeper. She is the author of mystery, suspense and historical romance novels.
Website: http://www.alisonbruce.caBlog: http://alisonebruce.blogspot.caTwitter: https://twitter.com/alisonebruceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/alisonbruce.books
Kat Flannery’s love of history shows in the novels she writes. She is an avid reader of historical, suspense, paranormal, and romance. When not researching for her next book, Kat can be found running her three sons to hockey and lacrosse. She’s been published in numerous periodicals. This is Kat’s third book and she is hard at work on her next.
Website: www.katflannery-author.com
Blog: www.kat-scratch.blogspot.caTwitter: https://twitter.com/katflannery1Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kat-Flannery/131065966999142
http://bookpromotions.literarynook.com/Giveaway: Author is giving away 2 Kindle copies of "Lakota Honor"
a Rafflecopter giveaway
October 24, 2013
A New website for authors: Indicated, and my thoughts.
Launch date is Nov 19, 2013 Early bird special of 20% discount on membership to join. And 10% discount on membership for the first month.
For newbie authors, or seasoned authors releasing a new novel, exposure is an important tool in attracting new readers to your novel. Indicated was created with this purpose in mind, and brings together independent and small press authors to promote and support each other.
The main feature of the site is a ‘pay it forward’ system where certain novels in select genres will be spotlighted (featured) each month, and eligible to receive support (multiple reviews, sales, promotion and possible inclusion in library catalogues around the world - all of which broadens the book's exposure to more readers). Other members will be required to support others to get their book(s) spotlighted.
Indicated will also promote member’s novels through cover reveals, author interviews and guest posts, as well as member's upcoming events like book launches or book signings. The site features a library of information on promotion and marketing material, a database of publishing industry professionals who can help with different stages of novel publishing and a blog to keep members updated on industry news and trends.
This is my first time that I would review a site, giving input and speaking directly to the creator of the site Louisa Clarkson. What a wonderful lady. Sharp and witty and she knows what she wants. Great to work with someone who has a passion for the industry. When mailing her during the review process she was always quick to respond and very professional.
You can follow her on Twitter @Ind1cated and on Facebook
Here are my thoughts on the site. 5 Stars if it was on Amazon Sign up was quick and easy.Upload of my Avatar had no problems.The upload of the cover pic was quick. I really appreciated the quick response from the site. Read the membership fee requirements. I think it is reasonable and will keep the standard up to par. The site is easy to navigate with no hidden agendas.The rules of the reviews I agree with. If only every one understand this **smile**.I love the spotlight section, meaning every book has a change to be noticed and would receive the support needed in this industry.No frills, just a site that wants to promote and support authors the best they could, with the help of equally dedicated authors.
Thanks for the opportunity Louisa, and I wish you all the best with this new season in your life.
Redemption Red Blog Tour – Delancey Stewart Plus Excerpt and 5 Star review
Title: Redemption Red Author: Delancey StewartGenre: Contemporary RomanceSub Genre: PTSD/ Family RelationshipsHeat Level: Sensual
Amazon
Blurb:
Love, loss, and a smoky red…
When Audrey Montgomery’s carefully planned life collides with the self-destructive path Tyson Dawes is on, neither of them can predict what will happen next.
Audrey is a diligent and self-reliant culinary student at Portland’s prestigious Cordon Bleu. She has a clear picture of her future in mind, and it allows little room for the steely-eyed and tormented young man she bumps into by chance while wine tasting with friends.
Tyson Dawes had a perfect childhood, raised among the vines in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. But even the most idyllic of upbringings couldn’t have prepared him for what he would face as a Marine. He returns to his childhood home angry and haunted by the storms of what he has faced and by those he has lost.
Do opposites truly attract? Can the lure of Audrey’s apparent clarity and innocence offer Tyson hope in the face of his emptiness?
Author Bio:
Delancey Stewart is the author of the Wine Country Romance Series, featuring A Rare Vintage and Redemption Red. She is also writing the Girlfriends of Gotham series for Swoon Romance. The first book in that series, Men and Martinis, will publish in December 2013.Stewart has lived on both coasts, in big cities and small towns. She's been a pharmaceutical rep, a personal trainer and a direct sales representative for a French wine importer.
A military spouse and the mother of two small boys, her current job titles include pirate captain, monster hunter, Lego assembler and story reader. She tackles all these efforts at her current home near Washington D.C.
Author links:Blog: / FB: / Goodreads: GR RR: / Amazon Author Page:
Redemption Red Excerpt #1:THE WINDOWS OF the restaurant were tinted to the point where Tyson couldn’t see more than a dark shape approach as he stood outside the door waiting. He thought that the people who’d started the place could’ve probably stretched a bit to come up with something more original than “Fork,” but that’s what they’d gone with. He shook his head, chuckling at the lack of irony in the name as the door swung open. On the other side of the door, in the tall industrial space of one of the hottest restaurants in Portland, was Audrey, the girl Tyson hadn’t been able to banish from his mind since the day before. Even though their interaction hadn’t exactly been rewarding, Tyson found himself fantasizing about the girl with the thick dark hair and coppery eyes almost constantly. He wasn’t fantasizing anything particularly sexual, though his mind would have gone there willingly if he’d let it. He just wanted to talk to her, be near her for some reason. “Tyson.” She said his name simply, quietly, as if she’d fully expected that he would show up here. Suddenly, he felt uncertain of himself. The heavy bag of wines was pulling down on his shoulder, making him feel lopsided and awkward. Anxiety began to claw its way up his throat, and he felt his vision beginning to darken. He pushed the sensation away. “Audrey, right?” He willed his body to stop shaking and focused on her amber eyes, feeling himself calm.“Right.”“I had no idea you worked here.” “Of course not. There’s no way you could have known.”“So we’ve established that I’m not stalking you.” He smiled.She tilted her head, and the thick hair fell away from her graceful neck on one side. Tyson fought back an urge to run his hand along her delicate jawline. Something about her was a contradiction. She appeared fragile and delicate, but there was such strength in her eyes and attitude. “Was there some question that you might?” The half smile again. Tyson felt butterflies jump into action in his gut. Why does this girl have such an effect on me? “Of course not,” Tyson laughed easily then. He nodded down toward the cooler bag. “You didn’t really get a chance to taste through the wines. Think we could try a…”Just then a loud squealing sound erupted from the street, followed by the sickening crunch of metal. A Volvo SUV had just rear-ended a much smaller Kia, and the entire rear end of the Kia was crumpled and smashed. As the noise began, Tyson felt his entire body start to vibrate. His heart exploded in his chest and adrenaline flooded his body. Before he knew it, he had pushed Audrey inside the restaurant, one hand on her chest, sending her flying inside where she landed hard against the long table. He slammed the door shut behind himself and ended up in a crouch behind it, hands frantically searching for his weapon. He peered out the tinted window at the street, his hands still uselessly seeking anything he could use to protect himself. Inside the restaurant, Florence and the Machine played loudly, and a longhaired skater guy was jabbering away on the phone at the podium. Tyson glanced around to find another woman, a redhead with a serious expression, sitting at the bar and staring at him with her pen raised in mid-air, while Audrey had slipped down into a chair at the table and was eyeing him with a mixture of fear and irritation. His breathing slowly returned to normal and he stood up, wishing he could just disappear. He smoothed his clothing and eventually shoved his hands into his pockets where he hoped they would stay still. “Um…” he looked up at Audrey.She was rubbing her shoulder. Horror crept through him as he started to remember exactly what had just happened. He’d shoved her. Hard. “Oh, God,” he said, crossing the floor to where she sat, looking dazed. “Are you hurt?”
My 5 Star ReviewI received the book from the touring host for an honest review.
A beautiful love story, with enough drama to keep you guessing if the two main characters will come together in a happy ending. A real emotional rollercoaster as you are drawn into their daily lives. In Afrikaans I would have said "'n Regte tranetrekker." Well written, fast paced with great characters you learn about the world of wine and restaurants as Audrey and Tyson met. Not in the best of ways mind you, but enough to make a lasting impression on both. Audrey, a young woman still learning her culinary skills is filled with care and love, always to the rescue for those who wants to be saved. When she met Tyson she thought that he needs her as well, but at the end it turns out they needed each other. Working in a restaurant, going to school and caring for her ailing father was her priority, but once he made his appearance her focus shifted. At first the hand, she reached out was rejected, she was scared, not knowing if she makes the right decision. Tyson was a troubled soul, an ex-marine who had to work through a lot of pain. Drowning it in the bottle, with no future plans. Living with his father on the wine farm, a wine maker, and a comatose mother he had no hope left to fight. That is until he met the petite little woman who became more important than the bottle. Both needed restoration, their home lives sorely lacking, but standing at the bed of a dying father they realized what was important. With determination and strong will they both showed that they could overcome the obstacles in their lives. Working together to reach what they both craved. The romance breathtaking and beautiful as both learn to give and take in equal measures.Each supporting character played their part beautifully in the story as it unfolds. Every character depositing a truth or a wake up call to them. Well layered the scenes were building the plot to its final page. For a few hours, you could get lost in the story and fall in love with the characters as they struggled with everyday problems, making it a believable and enjoyable read.
Stacy Bailey DarnellLiterary Mania Reviewshttp://literarymaniareviews.blogspot.comwww.facebook.com/LiteraryManiaReviews@LitManiaReviews
October 23, 2013
Interview with T.T. Harris and her new release Secrets in the Sanctuary.
Playwright| Author| T. T. Harris T. T. Harris is a native of Delawareand has been writing novels for many years. She attended Texas Southern University in Houston, TXand later migrated back to the east coast to finish school at Temple Universityin Philadelphia, PA. As a small child, Ms. Harris had a love for writing short stories and excelled in creative writing in school. In 2004, Ms. Harris began working on her first novel entitled, “Legal Problems,” which she released in May 2012.
After receiving great reviews and success from her first released novel, Ms. Harris immediately began to write a story that will bring the awareness to people in religion everywhere. As an active member and Elder in her church, Ms. Harris felt that the church is suffering with a bad reputation and has been plagued with stereotypes in the community and society. Ms. Harris hopes the novel, The Things Church People Won’t Say and Secrets In The Sanctuary will help her readers be inspired and share their testimonies of hope and deliverance.
Secrets In The Sanctuary is a continuation from the popular novel The Things Church People Won’t Say released in October 2012. A few years has passed, Rachel Titus, the first lady of Greater Mission Temple of Faith Ministries, thinks her secrets are safe until the unthinkable happens. Bishop Richard Titus is faced with some very tough decisions that will affect the lives of his family and churches forever. Robert and Veronica Jones’ past come back causing a line of destruction in their church. And a host of lies, secrets , crime, passion, and betrayal plague this congregation of people. Secrets In The Sanctuary, is a dramatic and explosive fiction novel that leaves you wondering if secrets are really kept under lock and key in your sanctuary…perfect peace within themselves and discovering that true love comes from God first. Will they accept God's invitation?
Purchase the Book Online at:Playwright|Author| T.T. Harris Novel ‘Secrets In The Sanctuary’Amazon.comBarnesandNoble.comwww.thekeysproductions.comFor More Information:
Visit the author online at:Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/FPaThbZFrfE Facebook/inbox: http://www.facebook.com/turkessatharriswebsite: www.thekeysproductions.comEmail: thekeysproductions@gmail.com Twitter: @da_novelist
FAB Tours would like to thank you for sharing Playwright| Author | T.T. Harris gift with the world
Promo Blitz for Born into Fire, Excerpt and Giveaway
Title: Born Into FireAuthor: Tarah Scott and KyAnn WatersGenres: Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance, Paranormal RomancePublisher: The Wild Rose PressRelease Date: 12/22/2012Word Count/Length: 38,000 words
Goodreads Link:
Buy Links:AMAZON | B&N | KOBO | ARe
Synopsis:
She’s fire, he’s air. Together, their power is unimaginable…and hot, hot enough to melt steel.
Aspiring artist Kenna Lang can’t believe her luck in meeting the gorgeous Eric Grey. What she doesn’t know is that their chance encounter was by his design.
Their affair turns hotter than her glass furnaces. Drawn together in an erotic joining, they become more than human. In their merging, Eric shows her they descend from elements of air, water, earth, and fire. When another man tries to enslave her, Eric turns to the ones who were there when she disappeared: his race's sworn enemy, the shape-shifting dragons Drakaura.
Author Bio:
Award winning author Tarah Scott cut her teeth on authors such as Georgette Heyer, Zane Grey, and Amanda Quick. Her favorite book is a Tale of Two Cities, with Gone With the Wind as a close second. She writes modern classical romance, and paranormal and romantic suspense. Tarah grew up in Texas and currently resides in Westchester County, New York with her daughter.
Contact LinksWebsite:www.tarahscott.com
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/TarahScottRomanceAuthor
Twitter:@TarahScott
Tarah's Reading Grouphttp://microcerpt.com/groups/tarah-scott-reader-group/
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Excerpt 2Kenna Lang jackknifed upright in bed. Wind blasted over her fevered flesh. Her pussy pulsed with sudden emptiness, and she dragged in breath with a final wave of orgasm. Holy shit. A dream. She jammed her eyes shut and mentally clutched at the receding edges of the erotic vision. A barely distinguishable whirlpooling shadow moved against the darkness within her mind, then evaporated. An answering echo of pleasureclenched her pussy. Wind fluttered over her, cooling the sweat- dampened hair at her temples, soothing her rampant heartbeat. She opened her eyes and stood. The room seemed to shift. She grabbed the edge of her grandmother’s armoire and inhaled a steadying breath. Curtains billowed at the window opposite the bed, then stilled. Rain and wooded scents lingered in the air…as did the heavy aroma of sex. She took two steps, scooped up the robe that had fallen from the bed, and slipped her arms inside the long sleeves as she crossed to the window. Cool air washed over her heated skin when she drew near, and she let the robe fall open. Goose bumps chased across her arms. Despite the chill—needing the chill—she leaned into the brisk air and gazed heavenward. Stars sparkled in the cloudless night sky over Lakewood, Colorado. A hawk screeched in the distance. A storm had blown straight through while she slept. Kenna faced the bed. The sheet lay in a tangled mess across the mattress. She’d flung her pillow clear to the door. The chaos explained the uneasy feeling in her belly. She’d obviously had a fitful night. But the dream, the sexual energy, had been so real. Given the hard orgasm that woke her, she should be feeling ready to take on the world. Yet sexual tension still hummed through her like a live wire. Another wave of shivers raced across her flesh. She’d come, but the experience had been unlike any she’d ever dreamed—or imagined. She hadn’t been that aroused…ever. She grimaced. The pent-up anxiety over her upcoming show must have channeled into emotional chaos. Just thinking about the show started the gnawing in her stomach that had begun when Michael Laird first contacted her three months ago. This was her first major glass art exhibit—and it was now only two weeks away. Half a dozen crates had been shipped to the gallery.Several in-progress pieces lined a shelf in her workshop, but it was the special not-yet-started project that had her nervous. As a child, she’d envisioned the piece and, good or bad, the dragons she called Drakaura would define her as an artist. A nervous quiver radiated through her. Marshall Thomas would be attending the show. She hadn’t seen her mentor since showing him her first attempt at Drakaura two years ago. He’d accused her of copying William Gudentrath, and she’d walked out without a word. She understood the risk of blowing dragons in glass. William’s dragon glass goblets were world renowned. But he worked in muted copper, dark wine, ivory, and soft green, whereas her Drakaura was vivid greens, reds, and oranges. Still, Marshall’s accusation had played into the very fear that her critics fueled: the hidden passion within the glass was missing. What would they think of her dragon theme? What would Marshal think of it? He had read about her upcoming show. His congratulations had included an offer to fly in from Texas and help out. Sadness tugged at her. She missed him, the way he brought the art to life for her, his patient teaching. But was she ready to see him? Kenna shrugged off the anxiety, changed into faded jeans and a T-shirt, then started down the stairs of the two-story Colonial that had once been her grandmother’s home. The third step creaked. Kenna smiled. The seventh step would grumble next, then the eighth, and lastly, the twelfth. Many found the groans of an old house creepy, but sheknew the sounds began and ended with the wind. Ten minutes later, a hot cup of coffee in hand, Kenna walked the few feet from the house to her garage turned workshop. She slipped the key in the lock and opened the door. A breeze wafted past as she entered. Her heart always jump-started at the sight of the three glassblowing furnaces that dominated the workshop. A massive five-by-six freestanding crucible furnace to melt the glass sat near the farthest right-hand corner. To its right, along the garage doors, a six-by-four front-loading annealing oven used to slowly cool the glass sat on steel legs,while a pipe-shaped insulated firebrick glory hole furnace used to reheat the glass lay beside it. Five years of eating alphabet soup, bread, and skim milk had been worth it. Nearer the middle of the room sat the marver, the steel table where she worked the glass. Two parallel rails held the pipe while she worked with the glass to form the skin. Blown glass filled the shelves lining all four walls. Kenna closed and locked the door, then crossed to the workbench and set her coffee and keys on the tabletop. After lighting the glory hole furnace, she stood, her gaze on the far shelf where she’d tucked away the piece she’d named Twilight Glide: a solid fire-colored base with a translucent yellow half- moon in the middle. A swirling crimson stem rose from the moon, and a sleek dragon, its dark green wings spread, soared above. Not quite Drakaura, but nothing like Gudentrath. This new piece was to follow the others already shipped to the Michael Laird Gallery for the Emergence of the Dragon exhibit. The yet uncreated centerpiece rose in memory as if stepping from the furnace fully formed. A tremor of familiar excitement fluttered her heart. Dreams as a child had conjured feathered dragons that guarded her in the deepest part of the night. Their memory outlived even Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy and metamorphosed into the Drakaura, sensual creatures that flowed in harmony with the glass. A soft breeze skimmed across her arms. Kenna smiled. Today was the day.
Giveaway 5 ebook copies of Born Into Fire.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Promo Blitz for Changing the Tide plus Excerpts and Giveaway
Title: Changing TideAuthor: DP DenmanGenres: Contemporary Romance, GLBT RomanceCategories: Gay (M/M)Publisher: North Shore PressRelease Date: 10/4/2013Word Count/Length: 50,000 words /167 pages
Synopsis:For Jack Lewis love comes from unexpected places…so does tragedy. When David arrived on Vancouver Island, he was just another tourist looking to charter a boat. A few hours on the water together proves he is more than that. As a world traveler, David is a man of mystery who has been everywhere and seen everything.Attraction draws them together but an attempt at a meaningless fling fails one touch at a time when Jack feels more than he thought he would. The love affair sparks fear in David and jealousy in Emerson, the man who frequents Jack’s bed in a relationship that is all sex and no soul.
At odds with the men in his life Jack tries to talk David into staying and Emerson into going. The attempt sends things spinning out of control and he struggles with the consequences that could leave him empty handed.
Buy Links:
Amazon:
Goodreads Link:
Author Info:
DP Denman is an M/M (gay) contemporary romance author from the soggy splendor of the Pacific Northwest. She wrote and self-published her first novel at the age of eight and the single copy received rave reviews from a collection of biased friends and family members. From there she branched out to writing variety show skits for her siblings performed to captive audiences of visiting grandparents. Bits and pieces of stories followed in the form of school assignments and ramblings of an active imagination. Those eventually led to short stories, novels and several web series.
DP is an eclectic reader, obsessed writer, and determined LGBT rights activist. She lives with her fur babies and a pair of hyper-caffeinated muses.
Author Links:
www.dpdenman.comhttps://twitter.com/dpdenmanhttp://pinterest.com/dpdenmanhttps://www.facebook.com/dp.denmanhttp://dpdenmanauthor.blogspot.com/https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7325778.D_P_Denman
David was across the table recounting an adventure in a humid jungle and Jack hung on every word. The mystery man who had spent his life gallivanting across the planet was just as intriguing as he’d been before. The easy smile and the eyes lured him in but what was underneath held him captive. There was a soft passion in his face when he spoke about the people he’d met and the things he’d seen. His job was more than a convenient outlet for wanderlust. The stories he chased meant something to him and that passion made him wish the night would last awhile longer. It had little to do with the long, lean body or the hint of accumulated muscle from wandering jungles, trudging through deserts, and manning a sailboat by himself. It wasn’t the face or the eyes or the smile. It was the man. He could spend a week listening to his stories, watching his expression shift and change with the memories, and never lay a hand on him. He wanted to know every story David had to tell and when he was done, he wanted to listen to them all over again.He wasn’t sure David would ever tell him the one tucked away under the passion and hidden behind the easy smile, the one he worked so hard to hide. He’d seen the first flash of it and the pain it carried when they’d talked about his unbridled wanderlust and the failed attempt to plant his feet. Whatever it was had struck deep and wasn’t buried very far in the past. He could see it in his eyes as David spoke about rain forests and humid jungles. His grand existence as a photographer wasn’t quite what it seemed. He’d tried to return to the topic of what he’d left behind once or twice but David changed the subject every time. He’d taken the hint. He didn’t want to discuss it and that was ok. He was entitled to his privacy even if he could still see the things a change of topic couldn’t hide so he sat in the dim light of the restaurant and listened to the ones he was willing to tell while they ate. He had his own stories about charters and fishing but none of them were as dramatic as traveling the world. Still, David listened with equal interest and laughed here and there, a sound that inspired a warm glow inside. He wasn’t a kid. He knew the beginnings of attraction when he felt them he just wasn’t sure there was any point to it. David didn’t seem interested in any sort of connection because he guarded personal details like military secrets. He’d talk about his work. He’d talk about his boat and his travels but he wouldn’t talk about himself. Anytime they got near the topic, he shied away from it. By the end of their brief association, they would know all kinds of stories about each other and very little detail. Maybe it was better that way. It wasn’t as if they were at the start of a relationship. It was just a passing bit of nothing important, a chance encounter that wasn’t going anywhere.He didn’t pay much attention to the people that wandered by on the other side of the window. His only interest was the man across the table but now and then movement caught his eye and he’d glance outside. One such glance stuck when he saw Emerson staring back at him from several feet away, his expression a mixture of shock and confusion. They weren’t exclusive. What he and Emerson had together barely had a name let alone a commitment but he had a habit of making more of it than it was. Emerson was trolling for something he wasn’t going to get, not with him but that didn’t stop him from pretending they already had it.Unlike David, Emerson had no problem talking about himself and his ambitions. By his own telling, he was the human equivalent of a spoiled girl’s teacup poodle. He’d been a trophy of sorts to wealthy, powerful men who had left him behind for various reasons. His ambition was to acquire another one and be a kept man living the life of luxury in someone’s mansion, flaunting the connection to anyone who would listen. He wanted to be the object of envy fussed over by people who lived only to spoil him. Regardless of Emerson’s ambitions, their recurring tryst was nothing more than a way to pass the time, something that had become a recurring mistake a long time ago. Over the last few months things between them had degrading into a junky and dealer type of arrangement where he showed up at Emerson’s door when he needed a fix and then attempted to swear off the habit as he pulled his clothes back on. To him it was just sex, albeit very good sex but Emerson didn’t see it that way. He’d always had his own version of reality his life both past and present draped in illusion and outright lies. Emerson wanted a fairytale. He wasn’t going to get it.They stared at each other for a moment through the glass and he could tell by the look on his face there would be a hissy fit over that dinner at some point. He tried not to cringe at the thought.
Giveaway 2 $15 PayPal Gift Cards.
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Book Barrage for Loving Liberty by Belinda Boring plus Giveaway
Title: Loving LibertyAuthor: Belinda BoringGenres: Contemporary Romance, New Adult RomanceCategories: Coming of AgePublisher: Blushing Heart PressRelease Date: 7/14/2013Heat Level: SweetWord Count/Length: 73,000 words/340 pagesGoodreads link:
Buy Links:
Amazon: / B&N: / iBooks: / Smashwords:
Synopsis:
Liberty Montgomery is many things:
A dutiful daughter.Perfect wife-in-training.Easy to manipulate.Compliant.
But secretly she wants more.
For years, Liberty has dreamed of a life filled with opportunities—a life where she makes the decisions, living by her own rules. Unfortunately, her parents have other plans for her, ones that involve her submission and total obedience. Every attempt to break free from their control is met with threats, leaving her feeling trapped. Just when all seems hopeless, Liberty meets Oliver Nichols. With just two words, be brave, he stirs up her secret longings for more . . . friendship, fun, and independence. He almost has her believing her dreams are possible. However, taking a stand can be terrifying when you’ve spent your entire life pleasing others.
Are some chances worth taking? What would she risk for freedom?
Author Bio:
A homesick Aussie living amongst the cactus and mountains of Arizona, Belinda Boring is a self proclaimed addict of romance and all things swoon worthy. It wasn't long before she began writing, pouring her imagination and creativity into the stories she dreams. Whether urban fantasy, paranormal romance or romance in general, Belinda strives to share great plots with heart and characters that you can't help but connect with. Of course, she wouldn't be Belinda without adding heroes she hopes will curl your toes. Surrounded by a supportive cast of family, friends, and the man she gives her heart and soul to, Belinda is living the good life. Happy reading!
Today is the author's birthday. Happy Birth day Belinda, I wish you all the best with all you have planned and your books. May you experience blessings, peace, love and lots of cake on this day.
~Contact Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Belinda-Boring-Author/200626723318915Twitter: https://twitter.com/thebookishsnobWebsite:http://www.thebookishsnob.comPinterest: http://pinterest.com/belindaboring/Link to Loving Liberty Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/msPUNSliG2M
Excerpt 1“Ready?” he asked, brushing his hair away from his face, aware I was checking him out. His hand beckoned for me to approach and I let out a soft sigh. He stepped away from the table, waiting for me to come stand in front of him, sandwiched between him and the table. “I’m going to have you break, okay?” He moved in closer and I prayed my legs wouldn't give out. I could feel every inch of him pressed against me.“Okay,” I stammered. Oliver chuckled low in my ear and I tried not to shiver from the sensation. Bending me forward with his body, he showed me how to position the stick, his arm alongside mine. We fit perfectly.“Still with me, Liberty?” he asked. I didn't want to move. We were so connected, the position so intimate, I was sure I’d melt on the spot. Andrew had tried holding me this close and all it did was make my skin crawl. It was the complete opposite with Oliver. This made me feel reckless.
Tour Schedule for Loving Liberty by Belinda Boring
October 21 – October 27
October 21:
Book Reviews by Xunaira J. - PromoThe Phantom Paragrapher - ReviewHarlie’s Books - Promo
October 22:
My Devotional Thoughts - Promo, ExcerptLis les Livres - Promo
October 23:
Reading Rainblog - Review, Promo and ExcerptAspired Writer - ExcerptKristy Centeno – Promo
October 24:
Battery Operated Book Blog - Review3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy and Sissy Too - Excerpt
October 25:
A Chick Who Reads - ReviewAli’s Books - Promo
October 26:Rachel Brimble Romance – PromoJessica Loves Books – ReviewLOVE WITHOUT YOU – Excerpt
October 27:
Musings and Ramblings – Promo, ExcerptBooker Like a Hooker – ReviewLusty Penguin Reviews – Promo, Excerpt
Giveaway: 1 signed print copy of "Loving Liberty" PLUS swag
a Rafflecopter giveaway
October 22, 2013
Review and Giveaway for "Fire and Ice" by Michelle Barrow-Belisle
Blurb/Synopsis:
Adventure wasn’t something Lorelei Alundra was interested in. Gifted with two otherworldly talents for singing and healing, she’s always shied away from her gifts and the spotlight, preferring quiet anonymity, over attention and fame. But when she meets the enigmatic Adrius, with his dark and dangerous mystique and eyes that peer into her soul, her uneventful life becomes irrevocably altered.
Adrius turns up in every one of her classes and knows more about her than any newcomer should. Including the condition of her mother who is suffering from a mysterious illness. Accepting his offer to help leads her into a terrifying and thrilling world, where Elves are even hotter than Legolas, and Faeries.... are nothing like Tinkerbell. Lose the butterfly wings and add a tattoo. The two magical beings are fire and ice opposites. One Lorelei can’t help falling for, and the other she's compelled to be with.
Now she’s trapped in their world, expected to prevent a war between witches and faeries, or forfeit her mother’s life. Nothing is what it seems. Not her family. Not the Fey. Not even Adrius, whose feelings for her balance precariously between danger and desire.
As secrets unravel and unsettling truths are revealed, Lorelei must fight to save much more than her mother’s life. One mistake could put the fate of his world— and her soul, in jeopardy.
But hey, no pressure… right.
Book Link:Goodreads
Purchase Links:Amazon Kindle US / Amazon Kindle UKBarnes and Noble / Kobo / Smashwords
Author Bio
Michele Barrow-Belisle is chocoholic author and artist living in southern Ontario, Canada with her super-sweet husband, brilliant son and a ridiculously affectionate cat. Often told by teachers to stop dreaming and get her head out of the clouds, Michele still spends much of her time lost in make-believe worlds, populated with fascinating and occasionally terrifying characters. Her passion for fantasy extends beyond her writing into her clay figure sculpt-ing, creating miniaturized replicas of the paranormal beings she writes about. Michele is as passionate about reading as she is about writing. When she’s not reading or writing, she can be found sculpting tiny fairy desserts in polymer clay. She also loves mocha lattes and watching fireflies at twilight. Did we mention she loves chocolate?
Author Links:Amazon / BlogFacebook / Facebook Author PageGoodreads / Twitter / Website
My 4 Star Review
I received this book from the touring host for an honest review.
A tale of magic, fairies's and every fantasy creature you could think of. Lorelei, a frightened young seventeen year old, struggling with stage fright and the fear of blood, soon discovered she had more to worry about then pestering cheerleaders and been called a freak. What set her apart was her healing ability just by touching a person, working in the Tea Room with all its interesting herbs that were actually healing the people without their knowledge. When she met Adruis she had no idea that her world was about to change, forever.Will full, stubborn, determined, not listening to anyone, with one goal to safe her mother she lands in the land of Mythlandria. She discovered whom she was as secrets are revealed and a prophecy unfolds taking her deeper into this land with his strange but fascinating life. Always at the run from something with Adrius always at her side. His character, steadfast, willing to risk it all for her as sacrifices are made and lives saved. The budding romance had resistance from the start with the Icy Witch claiming what was hers. The epic story of good versus evil in a land of make believe, when truths were revealed, hearts were broken, and this mystical land became not so mystical anymore. With many twists and turns in the plot, the author captures your imagination, wondering if the day will be saved. An entertaining fantasy story for people who believe that fairies, magic and witches are real. Descriptive in her storytelling the author will keep you at the edge till the very last page.Well written the story will pull you into the pages as scene upon scene unfolds with plenty of adventure and action waiting for her. The characters were well crafted and believable. At the end a great story.
Follow the Tour Schedule by clicking the Tour Button below:
Tour Wide Giveaway
The Giveaway Prize will be a Gift box with the following:
one ebook copy of Fire & Ice - Kindle or ePUB (will not be in the box)one bottle of Fire & Ice nail polishone candle with Fire & Ice charmone mini book key ringone Lemon Balm Cafe charmone Fire & Ice bookmarkone $15.00 Amazon gift card
Announcing a Cover Reveal for Living Separate Lives by Paulette Harper.
Title: Living Separate LivesFour Friends, One Secret and The Weekend That Changed Their DestinyReleasing: Nov 5, 2013 e-book and paperback
About The Book
Candace Walker, Kaylan Smith, Jordan Tate, and Tiffany Thomas have their share of sorrows, but neither of them realizes how deep the sorrow goes. What happens when they agree to meet for a weekend of relaxation in beautiful Napa County? Which one will leave the same or worse?For Candace Walker, life has left her battered and bruised. Kaylan Smith has struggled with prejudice from her in-laws. After fifteen years of marriage, bitterness is trying to raise its ugly head for Jordan Tate, whose husband wants to call it quits. And for Tiffany Thomas, dealing with rejection has never been one of her greatest feats. Although they have been friends for years, they thought they knew each other well. But will a secret destroy their relationship and bring the sisterhood to a complete halt? Will they be able to forgive and allow God to mend that which might be torn?
About The Author
Paulette Harper is an award-winning and best-selling author. She is the owner of Write Now Literary Virtual Book Tours and is passionate about helping authors succeed in publishing and marketing their books. Paulette has been writing and publishing books since 2008. Paulette is the author of That Was Then, This is Now, Completely Whole and The Sanctuary. Her articles have appeared on-line and in print.
Social Media LinksFacebook : https://www.facebook.com/PauletteHarperAuthorTwitter: https://twitter.com/#!/pauletteharperLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/paulette-harper-johnson/7/a29/8a7 Pinterest : http://pinterest.com/pauletteharper/
About The Book
Candace Walker, Kaylan Smith, Jordan Tate, and Tiffany Thomas have their share of sorrows, but neither of them realizes how deep the sorrow goes. What happens when they agree to meet for a weekend of relaxation in beautiful Napa County? Which one will leave the same or worse?For Candace Walker, life has left her battered and bruised. Kaylan Smith has struggled with prejudice from her in-laws. After fifteen years of marriage, bitterness is trying to raise its ugly head for Jordan Tate, whose husband wants to call it quits. And for Tiffany Thomas, dealing with rejection has never been one of her greatest feats. Although they have been friends for years, they thought they knew each other well. But will a secret destroy their relationship and bring the sisterhood to a complete halt? Will they be able to forgive and allow God to mend that which might be torn?
About The Author
Paulette Harper is an award-winning and best-selling author. She is the owner of Write Now Literary Virtual Book Tours and is passionate about helping authors succeed in publishing and marketing their books. Paulette has been writing and publishing books since 2008. Paulette is the author of That Was Then, This is Now, Completely Whole and The Sanctuary. Her articles have appeared on-line and in print.
Social Media LinksFacebook : https://www.facebook.com/PauletteHarperAuthorTwitter: https://twitter.com/#!/pauletteharperLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/paulette-harper-johnson/7/a29/8a7 Pinterest : http://pinterest.com/pauletteharper/
October 21, 2013
Today the Spotlight is on a New Release "The Breach Between" plus Giveaway.
Title: The Breach BetweenSeries: The Spiral Dance, #2Author: Duncan McGonallPublisher: Mages GatePublication Date: October 18, 2013Genre: Epic FantasySUMMARY
They use blood to walk through time and sigils to port worlds; they are Magi. They are the Legacy. They are three. One ancient book, the Book of Woes, can either restore or condemn the human race—depending upon who uses it. The Legacy seeks the mastery of this Book. At the moment, dragons have it and one of them is a lover scorned.The first of three is new to the game. Bruce Caieden is still playing catch-up as Egyptian gods Set and Horus teach him the Magi way. Will his role in the Legacy cost him his soul mate, his life? The second, Maramore, immortal and cousin to the brothers Caieden holds the secret, the big picture; an immortal must die, the Ankh Principle must be isolated, the Ennead sated and Order must prevail to restore the ancient machine known as the Atum Origin aka the Rea Novum. The third, Tolen Caieden, is a soldier of secrets and keeper of true lies. Since his grandfather’s untimely death, he is also the custodian of the Legacy. Maramore, Bruce and Tolen must find a way to satisfy the contradicting terms of the Legacy—and stop a defunct, ancient order’s plan to Shift the Circle of Life. They need blood to walk through time. They need blood to master the Book, and they need blood to stop the Shift. But there are more than two sides; there are four.
GOODREADS LINK
PRAISE
"Very well written, intriguing story line and curiously developed characters. I enjoyed the complexities as much as the intellectuality. Refreshing take on the genre."Jenn S. GoodReads, NetGalley
"...we enter an intricate web of political intrigue, mixed with time travel, Nazi treasures, and even magic.
The author sets the stage of the Nethertwain with some skill, crafts his long list of characters to battle and keeps the action moving from page to page." Vicki McKeehan, Author of The Bones of Others, GoodReads
"McGonall has created a world with complex politics and imaginative magick that even includes time travel, the Pope and Nazi treasures...a very powerful and stimulating read and rewarding with its intellectual depth and well-constructed foundations. McGonall’s command of language is superb..."Christoph Fischer, Amazon top 1000 Reviewer
"... woven with such intricate detail...McGonnall's diction is fantastic... his use of language will feel oddly refreshing and stimulating... a thrilling tale, The Breach Between is a special book because it isn't bound to just one mythological idea."This review can also be found at:
http://awalkonwords.blogspot.com/Steph and Dani, A Walk on Words
"McGonall wove a tale with words in the same way a master swordsman wields his weapon...this book reads like a testimony to a love of words and double entendres. Love, ambition and familial ties wrapped up with a spell or two ... is what the reader can look forward to."Wanda Hartzenberg, Amazon Reviewer, GoodReads
PURCHASE LINK
Amazon
ABOUT theAUTHOR
Duncan McGonall is a family man, first and everything else follows. Born of parents one generation from immigration to the U.S., his heritage is Scot’s Highlander. He lives in small-town Tennessee with his wife, five children and four dogs. McGonall’s first writing sold was a role-playing game in the mid-1980s. Now a retired Navy man, he writes full time and is a General Editing Partner of the Orion’s Exploit imprint under Authors Allies.
AUTHOR LINKS
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/DuncanMcGonallTwitter – https://twitter.com/DuncanMcGonallGoodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5806725.Duncan_McGonallAmazon - http://www.amazon.com/Duncan-McGonall/e/B00E15O7EA/fblink/ref=cm_sw_r_fa_nu_esLusb1V45Z0JAuthor Allies - https://www.facebook.com/AuthorsAllies
GIVEAWAY
The author is giving away one $15 Amazon gift card to one lucky winner. Open to international entries.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
