Lynelle Clark's Blog, page 137

Open Adoption Open Heart: An adoptive Father's Inspiring Journey Review

Open Adoption, Open Heart

The world of adoption has changed dramatically over the past twenty years. No longer do biological parents have to say goodbye to their child forever. They now have more options when deciding the type of adoption to pursue, such as open adoption. Open adoption creates the opportunity for a special relationship between biological parents, the adoptive parents, and the child.

 Open Adoption, Open Heart is an inspiring and true story, which takes the reader deeper into the feelings and emotions experienced by adoptive parents. As you read this incredible story, you will experience the joys, difficulties, and amazing victories facing adoptive couples. Russell and his wife, Jammie, invite you to share in their inspiring and heartwarming journey.



PurchaseAmazon * Author's Website
 Amazon Kindle * Barnes & Noble

Book Trailer:




From the Author: While my book's primary audience was thought to be those hoping to adopt, close to half of the books I've sold are simply people who want to read about our story and how adoption is different now than it used to be- and they have not adopted nor do they plan to adopt.



About the Author:

Russell Elkins was born on Andrews Air Force Base near Washington, D.C., in the fall of 1977. Along with his five siblings, he and his military family moved around a lot, living in eight different houses by the time he left for college at age 17. Although his family movedaway from Fallon, Nevada, just a few months after he moved out, he still considers that little oasis in the desert to be his childhood hometown. He and his family now live in the Boise, Idaho area.

Russell has always been a family man at heart, looking forward to the day when he could be a husband and a father. It took him a little while, but eventually his eyes locked onto a beautiful blonde, and he has never looked away. Russell and Jammie were married in 2004. Years of struggling with infertility left Russell and Jammie with a decision to make and their lives changed dramatically when they decided to adopt.

Russell and Jammie have adopted two beautiful children, Ira and Hazel, and have embraced their role as parents through open adoption. Both are actively engaged in the adoption community by communicating through social media, taking part in discussion panels, and writing songs about adoption. Russell also writes a weekly post for Adoption.com and contributes regularly to Adoption Voices Magazine.


Links Website * Facebook
My 5 Star Review of this Inspiring story

An Honest and Informative Biography of a couple's open adoptive process giving you a clear picture of what to expect when deciding to go this road. Their willingness to share in great detail such an important time in their lives was wonderful to read and I could experience with them their turmoils, questions, excitement when they finally got the baby in their arms.
Most of us is very fortunate to have children of our own, giving birth and experience the joy of being a parent but for many of us this is not as simply as planning to get pregnant, actually getting pregnant and see how the fetus grow in your belly to form a beautiful individual for which you are responsible.
For many as with Russel and Jammie it was not that easy but yet they were willing to give us a glimpse of this exciting but yet serious time in their lives. Hoping to help other couples to make informative decisions. Helping teenage mothers or any other mother that comes in a difficult situation and they have to give the precious bundle away to some one that will hopefully love the baby just as much as they do.
There is steps to consider, emotions at play during the process that has to be dealt with and when every one is willing to work at it, mature in the decision making it can go smoothly as possible.
There is no easy solution when you find out that you can not conceive the natural way and many people will have their say in this. Trying to give help but in the process do not understand what a couple faces during this period in their lives. You can never judge a person if you did not walk in his/her shoes. That saying is always applicable when facing with life's hard lessons.
What is important for couples is to make informed decision based on the expertise available. Asking questions until you are satisfied and comfortable with the answer that would work best in your world.
When we start out on these lessons we are often naive in our decisions and action but as time go on and you get better informed naivety makes room for knowledge and you can act on that knowledge to pick out a future that suited you best.
Russel's openness and honesty through the process was heart warming. Their honest account draws you into their life and you learn about their unwavering faith that God will show them the right way. They surrounded themselves with a inner circle of like minded people that could help them, pray with them and be sincere with out judging them. This really touched my heart as I read along. They were fortunate to know these people that helped them through this time of decision making.
"Soaked with information" they decided to go with adoption and met up with a young woman who wanted to give her baby to them.
You learn how discreet they were in choosing every detail, helping not only themselves but the birth mother in the process. Getting excited and nervous as you read along. Their honesty and openness toward Brianna was remarkable and I really admire this young lady that was forced to face such a huge step in her young life.
Russel and Jammie were considerate in each step they take to ensure a smooth transition for them all.
Issues of guilt they had to deal all on their own trying to cope with the pressures, taking responsibility for the young woman in their care during the last months of the pregnancy. Each step taking it as it progressed and making it a wonderful experience they cherished.
The waiting period for her to sign the last papers feeling like glorified babysitters. Handling it with much grace and patience. Dealing with emotions after the process was done drawing Brianna in as much as possible without disturbing the family unit.
They experience all of the trails set before them with humility and grace just to say

"Ira is my son"

A wonderful read I can recommend to all parties involved, making a informative decision about the most alternating time in your life.
Thanks Russel and Jammie for giving us a glimpse in your life, may you find Ira a blessing to you and that you would be the parents he will always know and love.  Ordained by a Heavenly Father that cares for you all.

A Pirate's Wife: A Brilliant story from first time author Lynelle Clark

Title A Pirate's Wife
Author Lynelle Clark
Selfpublished as Kindle Edition
Genre Historical Romance (Adventure)
Age restriction: 16

Available at
Smashwords / Amazon

Book trailer: 

Blurb

Rosa Lee Almaida grew up in a sheltered life after she and her mother experienced a horrific ordeal in the middle of Africa. Meeting her father was the only good thing that came out of it. The man honored by all sailors on sea for his bravery and unconditional love. He was her hero the example of how her husband must be one day. Now twenty years later she is forced to return to the seas that took the life of many. Abducted from her parents’ castle in Portugal, Rosa Lee Almaida was part of a ransom to The Falcon, a brutal Pirate King on the Island of Madagascar in exchange for her younger brother Pedro’s life. She came face to face with The Falcon’s son Roberto de Ville, a man equally brutal but with a hidden agenda.Reliving her past on the voyage she found that she admired the Pirate for his leader ship and skill, and when he saved her life she new this was the man for her but can she look past his pirate exterior to see the man for who he is? Through the inscriptions her parents left in their diaries she could make a choice to safe her life.Marrying him she had to trust him unconditionally, hoping that her life would be spared. Giving her self over to the love and intimacy she craved.Twice she had to take a live in order to safe those she cared for.Roberto had to bring Rosa Lee from Portugal and bring her to the Falcon on the Isle of St Mary. From the stories told by her brother his mind was made up from the start that she would be his. While listening to her and saw her bravery through a daring escape he knew that this was the woman he waited for all his life. He was willing to set the life of Piracy away to become a farmer but first he had to set a plan in motion to change his life forever. He could trust only Pierre his second in command to bring it to fruitation.Would he be able to change and safe them both?The out come startled her at the end. The biggest lesson learned. NEVER JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER.It does contain love scenes and fowl language since it portrays real events with authentic people.


Word From the Author

This was one story I truly loved to write. I love romance mixed with adventure and action. Telling a story that draws the reader in as I myself like when reading a good book. Delivering a message and making the blood boil all at the same time. All elements of a good book.
This was one great journey facing many challenges during the writing and publishing of this book. Meeting new people and facing new challenges as I went along.
Still learning but so far a thrilling ride.
The story itself was picked from a book I read awhile back but in my humble opinion lacked certain answers feeling like a cliffhanger at the end and I wanted to finish it. This is my version of the journey these people faced in the book. Continuing by adding more characters by answering questions I felt were unanswered. I never liked a cliffhanger in a book unless it is part of a series. But a stand alone needs a conclusion, bringing everything together so that you feel you have reached the pinnacle of the characters life. Making sense of the struggles the characters faced during the book.

Thanks for all the support so far, hoping I can draw you in my world and keep you glued to the pages of every book out of my pen.


Reviews on Amazon:

5 Stars
This is a great read! This story begins in the 1600's and spans a twenty year period. The main characters "chronicle" their hardships aboard a sailing vessel, and the devastation they suffered after a storm claimed the ship. Rosa-Lee, and her parents are well-rounded and believable, as is the mysterious Roberto. Rosa-Lee finds herself in the middle of an elaborate scheme that she doesn't fully understand, and the romance that unfolds takes her by surprise.
Anyone who enjoys historical romance will love this. I highly recommend this book, for ages 17 and up (erotic content).

4 Stars
I was pleasantly surprised when I read this book. Lynelle asked me to read it and review it. It had a lot of action and was well written. It was also a very fast read. Rosa Lee was a very strong character, and when she meets Roberto she doesn't know really what to think of him. But in the end she finds out that you really can't judge a book by it's cover. I suggest you read this, you'll like it.

5 Stars
The one quality all readers want form a writer is clean crisp writing, which is what is delivered in this story that unfolds seamlessly in this pirate drama that constantly begs you to look ahead, but glues you to each page. This is a highly recommended book that is a real sleeper. A definite buy.

Contact: http://pinterest.com/lynelle129/
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Shadows of Pain Book Tour and Review

Shadows of Pain Book 3Shadows SeriesBy Ashley Dawn
Published by Suspense PublishingPublished: Nov. 14, 2011 
Words: 68669 (approximate)
Language: English
ISBN: 9781465964014
Book trailer 
Available at Smashwords / Amazon
BlurbRevenge is sweet…unless you are on the receiving end of it.

“Do you know of anyone who would want…you dead?”

Officer Daniel Jenkins was no stranger to the dangers his job posed but usually he knew who was trying to kill him. Being stalked was a completely different ball game, and he wasn’t sure there were any rules…

“…I need you.”

Terrified didn’t even begin to describe how Kami felt with the stalker targeting her. As an FBI agent you were trained to handle stressful situations, but being the victim put the whole process in a different light.

As the killer gets closer, so do Kami and Daniel, but will they live long enough to see their love bloom?

Only God can save them from this unknown killer…

About the author
Author Ashley Dawn was born and raised in rural Arkansas where she developed her love for writing while helping in her parent's office. She graduated with an accounting degree from the University of Central Arkansas but is currently working as a legal assistant.
Ashley has been writing professionally for the past seven years and "Shadows of Pain" is her third published books. Her first book, "Shadows From The Past", was originally published by Tate Publishing and is considered more of a traditionally published book while the second, "Shadows of Suspicion", was published by self publication using AuthorHouse. She is currently working on multiple projects including a standalone mystery about a serial killer that remains untitled.
Ashley also has a review blog to share her love of reading, Ashley's Bookshelf, where she reads and reviews books of all genres (http://ashleysbookshelf.blogspot.com) She and her family make their home in Texas.
All information were gathered from the Smashwords and Amazon sites.


My 4 Star Review
Book 3 in the Shadows Series, a Christian Suspense Romance by Ashley Dawn. In this suspense filled story we met with a whole cast of characters tossed together as a family. Each qualified law enforcement officers and you see how three groups, The FBI, the CSI and the LAPD work together to catch the stalker that shadow their every move.Not even babies was immune to this bad guy's threats but at the end justice was served.We met up with the old group in the previous books of the Series as the story continues. I would recommend to first buy the first two before you read Book 3 since it would fill in the blanks more easily.Since I have not done this I was left with many unknowns in the story and the author left many gaps for me to really enjoy this read. I love suspense stories, the thrill and unexpected turns and twists you find in a story to keep you paging through the pages, questioning and anticipating who the perp could be. The end result when you find that you were wrong in guessing and the build up to the whole plot.Although the build up in this book was good there were to many distractions within the characters mind frames. Too many other things that occupied it and it lessen the suspense some what. Loosing its momentum.The salvation message came clear in the story when two characters is faced with mortality and God's place in their lives. But once again the theme did not had enough build up to see the progressive growth in the character's faith as you would have when you were facing a stalker who was out there trying to kill your loved ones. There were just to many warnings from the perp to make the plot really believable and tensed filled.The romance were good, the two characters David and Kami really coming together as a couple in this dire situation. They were caring and protective of each other, doing the little extras that makes a relationship work. Over all a good read but make sure you read the first two books in the Shadows Series.

#cblspromotions Chasing Clovers, Review and Giveaway

Today I am pleased to host Kat Flannery on my blog. Chasing Clovers is Kat’s first published novel. Looking forward to more out of her pen.


Chasing Cloversby Kat FlanneryPublished by Imajin BooksHistorical Western Romance/Romantic SuspenseLength: 75,000 wordsHeat Level: Sweet
Available at:Amazon US /  Amazon UK  /  B&N   
Blurb:Kat Flannery’s CHASING CLOVERS is the perfect mix of sweet romance and Wild West adventure, with a generous dash of emotion.
Mail order bride, Livy Green, is desperate to escape the memories of her past. John Taylor will never love another woman again, but his children need a mother. Will they learn to trust each other, or will their pasts interfere?
Longing to escape the awful memories and the saloon she once sang in, Livy Green lies about her past so she can be a wife to John Taylor and step mother to his two young children. Overwhelmed by the task, she struggles to put her resentment aside and love them as her own.
John loved his first wife and is still heartbroken over the loss, but he needs a mother for his children. When his distant and unfriendly mail order bride arrives, he begins to doubt his decision though one glance into Livy's terrified green eyes tells him he can't turn his back on her.
As Livy's past catches up with her and suspicious accidents begin to happen on the ranch, she is tempted to come clean and tell John the truth. But will he send her back if he does? Or will they forever be CHASING CLOVERS?
Reviews:“...CHASING CLOVERS is a page turner from the first page to its last page. I couldn't stop reading it. High fives all around!”--Lillian Cauldwell, Passioniate World Radio USA
“...Clearly, CHASING CLOVERS is a realistic depiction of goodness and vileness of human nature and hope amid seemingly very helpless situations.”--Nancy Cudis, Simple Clockwork
“4 out of 5 Stars! CHASING CLOVERS was such a great sweet read. This really truly was a sweet story that was very well written and had just enough romance and action to keep you turning the pages and wanting more.”--Ali, My Guilty Obsession
“I thoroughly enjoyed this book, which had a lot of twists and turns. This author gets a big thumbs up from me, and I look forward to her next book.”--Amazon Review
Book Trailer:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_OqlChC6Rw
About the Author: Kat Flannery has had her writing published in numerous periodicals. She’s received her diploma for Creative, Freelance, and Business Writing. She is co-owner of Prairie Dog Publishing, where she devotes her spare time as head of Marketing and Communications. When not focusing on her creative passions, Kat is busy with her three boys and doting husband Chasing Clovers is Kat’s first published novel. While awaiting the release of her second book, she is currently writing the third.
Visit Kat online at: Website – http://www.katflannery-author.com/Blog – http://kat-scratch.blogspot.ca/Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kat-Flannery/131065966999142Twitter – http://twitter.com/katflannery1


Excerpt #1 :
Chapter One (Calgary, 1884)
The stagecoach pitched to a stop, jostling Livy Green from fitful nightmares of a past she longed to bury and the stranger she was about to marry. Her neck stiff and her back aching, she massaged her shoulders. She straightened and tried to stretch her arms, but the tiny space wouldn't allow it.
A loud sigh blew from her lips when she realized how rumpled her clothes were. Frowning, she ran her hands along her skirt. Nothing but a hot iron would get the wrinkles out. With only two other dresses in her wardrobe, and no time to change anyway, she had no choice but to meet her fiancé looking as she did.
Her stomach dropped. What if I'm not what he's expecting?
She peered out the window and wasn't surprised to see a few North West Mounted Police mingling with the other townspeople. Their bright red uniforms stood out like apples on a tree. She reached for her satchel and held it tightly before she stepped out the small door. You can do this. She squeezed the handle on her luggage. You have to.
Fort Calgary was a bustling town with two hotels on either side of the street, a small dress shop with ladies hats and fabric displayed in the window, and a red-bricked bank on the northwest corner. She watched people walking along the wooden planks and filtering in and out of the shops.
A loud squeal sounded behind her.
Livy jumped. She was almost trampled by a young boy running from his mother. Her heart lurched at the sight of the child. The familiar ache inside her soul willed her to look away. But she continued to watch mother and child until they disappeared inside the mercantile.
She took a deep breath, forced all thoughts of the past out of her mind and scanned the streets again. Her face flushed when she thought of what she was about to do.
Bag in hand, she spotted the blacksmith across the street next to the barbershop. Her stomach twisted at the sight of the saloon two buildings down. The all too familiar swinging doors waved back and forth, taunting her. Two drunken cowboys left the saloon, weaving their way down the boardwalk.
Livy clenched the satchel and tensed.
She turned away, closed her eyes, and took another deep breath. Here she would be the wife to John Taylor―a man she'd never met―and stepmother to his two children.
She took another breath. She would start over. Again.
She surveyed the busy boardwalk in search of a tall man with dark hair. Almost every man she saw fit the description he had given her, so she decided to move over to the bench in front of the mercantile and wait for Mr. Taylor to find her. Hands folded together on her lap. She tapped her toe restlessly. Where could he be?
A rough looking cowboy sauntered toward her. His brown greasy hair, and ripped denims were paired with an evil smile.
Livy tucked her chin into her chest. Oh, please don't let that be him. She'd seen his type before and knew what they were capable of. The man lingered beside her for a few moments before continuing on down the boardwalk.
She sighed with relief. How am I going to do this?
No longer Angel Green, she was now Olivia Green. The past was far behind her, except on those long dark nights that would not allow her to escape it.
She chewed on her bottom lip and stared at the busy street.
Her new life would begin here. She would survive.
She blew out a shaky breath. It was all she knew how to do.
"Olivia?" a male voice asked.
A tall man stood beside her, his hat pulled low so she couldn't see his eyes. He hesitated, then extended his hand. "Olivia?" He had a polite, resonating voice.
She shaded her eyes with a hand. "Livy will do fine." She was uncomfortably aware of his presence as he towered over her.
He smiled and took off his hat. Wavy black hair curled above the collar of his coat and his skin was tanned from the sun. He looked nothing like the dirty cowboy. Thank goodness. Instead, he wore a clean flannel shirt tucked into faded denim pants.
"John Taylor. Good to finally meet you. My buckboard is over there." He pointed the way, then peered around. "Where are your trunks?"
"I only have this one."
Her cheeks reddened as she lifted her tattered brown satchel. She held it slightly behind, not wanting him to see the holes and stains on it.
Nodding, he offered his arm. She ignored it. Friendly eyes stared back at her. After what had happened to her in Great Falls, she hated being touched by men.
"Do not be insulted, Mr. Taylor," she said, staring at his boots, "but I'd rather you show me the way instead."
She headed in the direction he'd pointed out earlier. When she heard a low chuckle from behind, she pursed her lips and walked faster. I need no one, least of all a man.
In truth, she needed John Taylor more than she could admit.


My 5 Star Review
Ever since I have learned about mail order brides I am fascinated with the stories authors right about it. Two perfect strangers meeting some where in the prairies to carve a life for them selves, together. Finding common threads that holds them together creating a life, family and when lucky finding love. Some have secrets to keep, some looking for adventure, some just to belong, to be use full. Just love the turmoil, the acceptance, the process of knowing each other and so far never dissapointed in the stories the different authors right for our entertainment.Chasing Clovers is no acception. Finding its way on my shelf as a most enjoyable read. A story of faith and courage to take the first step. A sweet romance with a tensed filled beginning, struggling to cope in the harsh conditions of ranching life. A build up to keep you wondering if these two people will make it, willing to lay down one self and give them self the permission to love and start over. And the conclusion, bringing everything together in three little words. "I love you"The strong characters capture your heart as each faced their pain with the loss of a love one. Each handling it differently. The two sweet children so innocent and doing their part in healing the grown ups. The ranch help, each bringing their abilities to the table to bring these two together as a family.
John Taylor - widower, Ranch owner, single father still coping with the loss of his wife.
Livy Angel Green - Growing up in a saloon with no idea of ranch life, raped and giving birth to a baby girl. Died in her arms. My heart went out to this young woman who had to deal with all of this all on her own.
Ben - sweet eight year old boy that helps her to cope 
Emily - a sweet innocent three year old girl that reminds her of Emma
Anxiety and night mares filled Livy's life and dreams with the threat of a man that refuse to accept no as a answer. In fact he live from the thrill of it. Using every diabolic plan to have Livy once again.
Four people learning to accept each other, wondering if this is the right path for them. With accidents constantly running havoc on the ranch from the day Livy arrived on the T-Bar. Each time threatening her life or those of the children. Learning how to take care for a family, learning to cook and about vegetables.
A really enjoyable book from beginning to the end. It has all the elements to make this a great read, offering the reader to go back in a time when life was simpler and finding your feet hard but yet between all the turmoil a love is born.
Well done Kat Flannery. Looking forward to more of your books.
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#sageblogtours: Black and White and Dead all over: Review

Title: Black and White and Dead All Over             A Brian Wilder MysteryAuthor: Micheal BradleyGenre: Thriller/MysteryPages: 159Publisher: Self Published
Available at: Amazon

Synopsis:
When the skeleton of a teenage girl is uncovered at a construction site in Newark, journalist Brian Wilder must follow a twenty-two year old trail of deceit and lies to uncover the truth behind her death.
While still struggling with his own tragic past, Brian uncovers a haunting secret of passion and anger that could threaten to destroy one of the most powerful political families in Delaware.



Born and raised in southern New Jersey, Michael Bradley is an author and IT consultant, whose frequent travels bring him in touch with a variety of people up and down the east coast.
When he isn’t on the road, Michael hits the waterways in one of his three kayaks. Being an avid Apple fan, Michael loves to preach the benefits of Apple’s Mac OS X and iOS.
Before working in information technology, Michael spent eight years in radio broadcasting, working for stations in
New Jersey and West Virginia, including the Marconi Award winning WVAQ in Morgantown. Becoming an author has been a lifelong dream for Michael, which was finally realized with the release of his first book in 2012.
Among the writers in which he finds inspiration, Michael favors P.D. James, Raymond Chandler, Leslie Charteris, Simon Brett, and Ian Fleming. He lives in Delaware with his wife, Diane, and their two furry four-legged “kids”, Simon and Brandy. Michael does all of his writing on an Apple iPad 2 with a Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover.


Contact: Michael BradleyEmail: mjbradley88@mail.comBlog: / Facebook: 




My 5 Star Review

Already from page one you are drawn into the story of the new book "Black and White and Dead all over" an interesting name to a excellent fast pace read.  
The book begins where a journalist and photographer were standing along side a old house ready to be moved to its new destination only a 100 yards away. The in-dept explanation of the whole technical act are explained so that you could get a clear picture of the construction site and what was about to happen. Then suddenly everything changed as a man discovered that the one side of the foundation is crumbling in and a gruesome sight is revealed.  
Brian Wilder, journalist and owner of the newspaper in town, Jessica his freelance photographer and Samuel Jenkins, Chief of Police is drawn into a story of a missing young woman twenty two years ago. Of a untimely blossoming romance that ended badly.
Finding a mess of ugliness buried so deep that no one could or want to remember. Power hungry politicians that want to buried the case under the rug. Power hungry drunk wife that would do everything to hold on to her position and name.
And you have the makings of a good mystery thriller story.
You meet the mother and father that could never get over the loss of their only daughter. Finding some closure in the sickening plot.
The characters was well defined, each playing their role to create a good read. Strong in their delivery so that you would know who they were as individuals. The nightmares that plagued some to finally relent, telling the truth.
I really liked the main character who lost his own family eight years prior, having compassion for this mother and father doing everything he can to discover the ugly truth. Even when his own life was threatened he hang in there to gave us a conclusive ending.   

#cblspromotions Mything You: Review, Author's Interview, Review and Giveaway

Mything You
by Greta BucklePublished by CreateSpace (Indie)YA Fantasy RomanceContains elements of action, adventure and comedyHeat Level: SteamyLength: 258 pages
Available at: Amazon  
Blurb:He wasn't looking for love. He only wanted to prove he was worthy of being a king's son.
Adventurer Theseus had dreamed of meeting his father, King Aegeus. As Theseus journeys to Athens, he meets his match in strength along the way. But is it the will of a beautiful young princess that puts this strong young man finally at his mercy? Or will he be able to conquer the princess’s heart?
She had settled for a life of unhappiness and believed a man who would love her for herself was only in her dreams.
Princess Ari has followed her father’s dictates all her life. On her way to meet her bridegroom, she is attacked. Saved by a handsome adventurer, Theseus, she tempts fate and follows him on his journey to Athens. Being with Theseus opens up a whole new world of opportunity for her. But will she allow her heart or loyal duty choose her life for her?
Excerpt: Theseus’ entire body must have been made in the nectar of desire because she wished to bury herself in his arms. And he didn't stop her from running to him. She jumped when a crash cracked through the air. Blinking, unsure of what happened, her body became rigid. Theseus pulled her into his arms and onto the ground seconds before the giant flew over the pair of them.
He took his hand off her head. He had protected her. Again.
Staring up at him stirred something unique inside her that she never believed could happen to her. She’d seen the plays and the tragedy that love caused, but never understood temptation. The fire in her belly burned into every part of her body from his smoldering eyes. He looked down at her as he cradled her in his arms. “That was Sinus. I don’t think he’ll kill anyone else ever again.”
“He won’t. How do you know his name?”
“He’s the reason I chose this path when I was fifteen. I had planned to prove my courage to my father, and take out the biggest villain on the road.”
“Check that off the list of goals then.” she said. “Good job.”
She continued to embrace Theseus, making her body tingle from crazy stirrings. What would he taste like? She’d die a happy death if he put his lips on hers. My, what was she thinking?
“I never believed you’d be here, or that my goal in that moment would turn to protecting you.” he said, pulling her closer.
She shook off her desires. She needed to let him go. She focused on logic instead of the male body in front of her. “I don’t know what to say. Today has been the craziest day.”
“It’s the middle of the night, little one.”
“You’re right. I don’t know what’s happening to me anymore. Theseus, this never happens to me.”
“What doesn’t happen to you?” he asked, smiling.
“I don’t know.”
He played with her hair, and straightened her clothes. “Your innocence and desire are a siren’s call to me, Ari, and you don’t have a clue, do you?”
“Who’s Ari?” She half expected to be disappointed with whatever he would say.
“You are. It fits you much better than Ariadne. Ari trembles for me.”
She licked her lips, wanting to kiss him. But she couldn’t. Theseus embodied a man out of her dreams.
She looked away thinking of what waited for her when her father’s men found her. “I don’t know my bridegroom. I’ve only ever known my duty.”
Theseus’ body tensed. “You’re betrothed?”
“I never agreed. The bride price, I’m told, paid for my father’s upgrade to the artillery. In the morning or someday soon, I’ll be found. But…can you do me one last favor?”
“What, little one?” His arms grew warm again, tightening around her. She dared for a different life, where she lived with a chance of walking next to him in life. Letting him go and going back to the life her father chose sounded cold and dreary. She couldn’t, not yet.
“Kiss me, Theseus, just once.”
Taking a step closer to him, she looked into his mesmerizing eyes. His strong hands framed her face, his fingers circled her mouth and his eyes darkened with tenderness. When he leaned into her, her eyelids fluttered shut. His light pressure sweetly opened her mouth.
Her secret wish had come true. The prison walls in Ariadne’s heart disappeared in her soul, and today Ari’s lips ached.
He bent his head close. Then, she felt his strong lips on hers, and she lost control.
About the Author:Greta Buckle grew up in Irish Catholic Boston before moving to the Miami sun. She’s worked in engineering, then became a lawyer. After realizing she hates clients, she became a high school teacher. Teaching is fun, but writing is a passion. She wrote one hundred and one fan fiction stories online before deciding to transition into writing her own stories. Never ask her to republish her fan stories from age eleven- horribly written stories of princesses. Greta dreams of writing professionally, where her barista can make her coffee and a walk on the beach, can motivate her tales. Theseus story came to her when she was a freshman in high school as her English teacher, the nun, told her how life was hard and tragedy teaches lessons. Greta’s love of writing has kept her centered and focused. How is she crazy? The voices in her head are characters in novels and she’s not insane.

Visit Greta online at: Website / Facebook 

Author Interview
1.       Where did the idea come from for the book?I came back from the Chicago Spring Fling Conference all fired up about short stories. The lecture was that inspiring! I could do a 10 to 20k short story. LOL. They said to look for calls out, and I saw one for ancient Athens or Rome. Immediately I thought, Theseus has never been told right at all. Yeah, that’s not what happened in the end. The story took a life of its own. 2.       What genre does your book fall under?I prefer to call it action adventure romance, but most people would call it fantasy romance.3.       Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?Liam Helmsworth for Theseus. He can die his hair like his brother did in Star Trek. Melissa Benoist aka Marley on Glee season four (new Rachel).4.       What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?On a quest to prove himself worthy of being a King’s Son, Theseus mets Ari, the girl who he falls hard for.5.       Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency?This one is self published. I have another book coming out in February, Two Weeks in Miami, that is professional. But for Ari and Theseus, they needed to be told right, and the characters already waited 5000 plus years for a good fix. I didn’t want to wait.6.       How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?Funniest thing, less than a month. Not the first or last thing I’ve written, but they took on a life of their own. And it was intended to a short. The rewriting took longer.7.       What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?If I had found a book like this in modern times, I’d compare it in a heartbeat. With the time period or the genre lately, the heroes are supernatural or godly in some way. Theseus and Ari are not, and to me that makes them human facing extraordinary adventures.8.       Who or What inspired you to write this book?My voice is contemporary. I know it. But I wanted to tackle history. And I love stories from this time period. 300. Troy. (slightly later, Gladiator, Spartacus, HBO’s Rome and I’m missing one right now.) With this time frame there are myths and legends and history all rolled together, and I’m stifled with verb choices on what’s proper and what’s not. 9.       What else about your book might pique the reader’s interest? Mything You was a fun and pleasure to write. The characters are engaging. Ari’s set to marry another man whose she’s never met, and never dared live on her own. She’s a good girl, and she always makes sense. On the road, Theseus saves her from near death, and she decides to follow him. They have to fight thieves, giants, witches, murderers, and of course the Minotaur to free Athens from danger and fall in love. Ultimately this is a romance with the sense of an adventure story. I had so much fun rewriting a myth and the sequel is in rough draft form already.
My 4 Star review

Greek mythology, Romance, Adventure. Meeting up with an all time favorite of mine Hercules. Kevin Sorbo the perfect candidate for the role that made this mythology story an every day household name. Then there was Xena, who can forget that lady, Lucy Lawless with her companion. Fearless, skilled with every weapon known, with a fierce punch. Do not forget Gerard Butler in 300, perfect in the role of the King of Sparta, or Brad Pitt in Helen of Troy and the new released Thor. These were awesome hunks and ladies that made the old Greek myths alive, living the grandeur of rich story telling. Just love the stories and hardly ever miss a series or movie in regards to this genre.

Greta Buckle bring in exciting characters but with a life of their own to enhance the well known tale of Midas and the cursed golden touch. With Hercules in his protective role and the Amazon women who tries to abduct Ariadne. The female main character in the book MyThing You. Princess and daughter of King Midas. Sold to the prince of Crete and almost died at the hands of thugs.
In step our hero, Theseus. Prince son of King Aegeus, King of Athens and saved the day. He is young, strong, vibrant, honest and in love. All the elements to continue a Greek myth as he fight giants, murderers, killing the Minotaur, and release the curse from Midas.
The well known tale end where Midas's daughter greeted her father with a kiss and she turned in a statue of gold but Theseus would have none of that. Searching for a solution through piles of documents and with no patience with King Midas he set out to find the cure and set his love free. With the help of Hercules he conquered his city after his father was killed.
I really enjoyed the young man, his character constant and growing to be a good leader to his people. He set out one goal, to proof he was a man his father could be proud of. He accomplished this as well.
But Ariadne's character lacked at times that same constant characteristics of the man she fell in love with. Her thoughts fleeting at times making her weak although at the end she turns out to be strong saving the city from a sea monster.
There were many gaps in the story that broke the flow, many repeats. I have learned is a big no-no in writing. The mind frame or thought patterns of the characters jumped around loosing the momentum at times.
The story of the apple was a sweet interlude keeping the two at a safe pace to get to know each other and making long lasting commitments to each other.
Overall a good read that many YA fantasy readers would love.

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#cblspromotions Book Barrage by Dale Mayer, GemStone. My review and competition

Gem Stone (A Gemma Stone Mystery, Book 1)by Dale MayerPublished by Valley Publishing (Indie)Length: 200 pages (eBook format)Contemporary YAContains elements of action, adventure and mystery/thriller
Available at: Amazon  
Blurb: A juvie kid trying to stay on the right path stumbles into trouble...
Gemma takes her camera everywhere. From juvie hall to a halfway home, the new hobby gives her a focus she'd never had before and... hope in a future. Until she takes pictures of something that could get her killed.
And not just her...after she and another juvie girl are chased by a stranger to the halfway home that same night, the other girl goes missing and Gemma knows she needs help. But who can she trust?
Not the authorities that's for sure. Trusting them is impossible for a girl with her damaged history, and besides, who cares about a troubled kid...especially when trouble just naturally seems to find her.
Excerpt #1:Damn Misty. Forcibly keeping her expression neutral, she struggled to match it to her voice. "I'm sorry to hear that, sir."
"I'm going to ask you once and once only. Did you cheat?"
"No, sir." She didn't need to cheat on exams. School was easy for her.
"Did you help anyone else cheat on their exams?"
At least she could answer honestly again. She looked him straight in the eye. "No, sir."
Silence.
"That's not what I'm hearing from other sources." He studied her intently as if hoping to read a different truth on her face. "I wouldn't want you involved in anything that would make me reconsider your placement here."
Shit. Misty was a bitch. The girl would do anything to avoid getting into trouble herself. Including throwing Gem into the mess to confuse the issue. Again.
"People will always talk, sir."
"Yes. They will, won't they? Well, we will leave it for the moment. As long as you realize, that if I receive one ounce of proof that you cheated, your permission to stay here will be rescinded. Got that?"
"Yes, sir." She dropped her gaze to her feet and the almost-too-short jeans. There were a lot of good things happening here. She didn't want to leave. She also didn't dare let him know how much this mattered.
Silence again.
Gemma risked a quick look at him. He was staring at a thick file open in front of him. Her file. Gemma groaned silently.
"I see you're still busy with that camera of yours…"
Was that a question? Gemma didn't know what she was supposed to say. "Yes, sir."
"You know better than to take pictures of people and situations that you aren't supposed to, right?" His pale gray eyes lifted from the desk, flicked to the field outside the window then back, catching hers.
Acid bubbled in her stomach. Did he know?
"We wouldn't want you ignoring other people's privacy now, would we? Even if the pictures don't turn out well, people might think you captured events you weren't entitled to see. Understand?"
A frisson of fear slid down her back. He couldn't know, could he? She didn't even know what she'd seen. She gulped and nodded once. "I'm very careful."
"Yes. Careful. That describes you very well. Careful in what you say. Careful in what you do. Careful in how you act. Always. What goes on behind those big brown eyes of yours, Gemma? You're always quiet. Deep. You've been here with the others for several months now and yet, you're still essentially a loner."
And what was she supposed to say to that? She remained silent.
"A word of warning, there will be several new girls arriving over the next few weeks, so expect to go back to sharing your room again." He studied her carefully for a reaction. "And still you stand there and say nothing." He closed the file before resting his interlocked fingers on top. He stared up at her, a frown creasing his forehead. "I'm not a big fan of mixing boys and girls at your age. Unleashed hormones and troubled kids make for a nasty mess." He narrowed his gaze and added, "Make sure you don't contribute to the problem."
 "No, sir. Are we done here, sir?" Gem stared down at her standard-issue running shoe. Like all her clothes. The home provided everything, slightly less institutionalized than at the center, but still generic. Soon she'd be allowed to get a job, then she could buy her own clothes.
He studied her bent head.
"Never an ounce of give in you, is there?"
"Sir?" She eyed him curiously.
"Never mind." He picked up her file and added it to the stack on the right. "Yes, we're done."
She took that as a dismissal. "Thank you, sir." Just before escaping down the hallway, she popped her head back in and said, "I don't cheat."
He looked up in surprise. "I know that. You don't bother reading the textbooks either, do you? But not everyone here has your IQ. Make sure you aren't helping the others cheat. It won't do either of you any good in the long run."
She nodded. She had no intention of helping anyone cheat, but that didn't stop them from cheating off her. Though it would have been easy to point the finger in the right direction, she wasn't Misty. She wasn't going to turn anyone in to make it easier for herself.
Life here hadn't changed the first rule, learned the hard way on the streets and reinforced in juvie. That rule was to keep your mouth shut – no matter what. Or else.
She bit her bottom lip as she raced down the hallway. She didn't want to miss dinner. She'd already outstripped most other girls her age, for height. She could only hope one day, she'd match them for curves. At least she had them all beat for brains.
It was a relief to get out of there, but she'd feel better if she understood what was going on by the creek. And why Creepers cared.
Excerpt #2:Without warning, a bright light flashed on, then its beam circled through the woods around them, shining light where there shouldn't have been any.
"Come on. Let's make a run for it." Gem stood up and at a dead run, bolted for the opening in the stone wall behind the center.
They were almost there, with Misty crashing behind Gem, when the searchlight swung toward them from the right.
Pouring power into her muscles, Gem ran faster. Realizing the light was going to catch them, she snagged Misty and pulled her to the ground.
"Shit. Shit. Shit," Gem whispered softly, turning to stare at Misty sprawled in wide-eyed panic while the light panned above their heads.
"What do we do now?" hissed Misty.
"We keep our heads down, wait a few seconds longer for the light to move off, then we run. It's not far. Let's bail through the wall into the backyard and run around to your bedroom. One, two three… Go!"
The one good thing about Misty was she understood and took orders well. Jumping to her feet, she sprinted the short distance, her legs pumping as hard as they could. Gem's longer legs easily caught up and passed her. At the wall, Gem dove through, grunting at the hard landing on rocks and gravel on the other side. She'd be covered in bruises tomorrow.
"Hurry up," she whispered to her friend. "Come on!"
After Misty clambered through, Gem quickly replaced two of the rocks in the wall. She needed it to look like nobody had gone through.
At her side, Misty gasped for breath and held her side. "Damn, that was close."
"I don't think we're out of trouble yet," Gem warned. They both hunkered down at the edge of the wall and watched the brilliant beam of light bounce toward them through the cracks and holes in the wall.
"Are they chasing us?" Misty's horrified voice had risen to a high-pitched squeak.
"Shhh!" Gem pulled Misty back down to the ground when she tried to stand for a better look.
"We didn't do anything wrong." Misty said it in a normal voice, as if she didn't understand what this was all about.
"Doesn't matter. Shhhh." Gem's heart stopped at the crunch of footsteps coming toward them from beyond the fence. Her heart slammed against her chest.
Reflexively, Gem slapped a hand over Misty's mouth as Misty tried to speak again.
Neither moved. They stared at each other in frozen horror.
"I thought they went over here?" shouted a deep male voice. "Could they have jumped the wall?"
"Don't think so. There's no sign of them anywhere."
"Damn it."
Gem closed her eyes and shuddered with relief as the footsteps retreated, the voice fading slightly as it called out, "Let's check the woods on the left."
She waited another long minute. Then removed her hand from Misty's mouth. "Come on. Let's get back inside."
Moving quietly, they headed around to Misty's bedroom window. Giving Misty her knee as a step up, they both almost fell back in shock as Mark's shadowed face appeared in Misty's window. He grabbed Misty's arms and hauled her up.
"Get in here before you're seen," he hissed. Gem jumped up to where she could pull herself in and found Mark's strong arms reaching around her and dragging her inside…just ahead of the searchlight's cycling beam. The two stood locked in place behind the curtain as the light bounced off the window and onto the wall beyond.
Gem shuddered when it passed by. Thank you.
About the Author: Dale Mayer is a prolific multi-published writer. She's best known for her Psychic Visions series. Besides her romantic suspense/thrillers, Dale also writes paranormal romance and crossover young adult books in several different genres.  To go with her fiction, she also writes nonfiction in many different fields with books available on resume writing, companion gardening and the USmortgage system. She has recently published her Career Essentials Series . All her books are available in print format as well.
Visit Dale online at: Website - http://www.dalemayer.comTwitter - http://www.twitter.com/dalemayerFacebook - http://www.facebook.com/dalemayer.author


BOOKS BY DALE MAYERPsychic Vision SeriesTuesday's ChildHide'n Go SeekMaddy's FloorGarden of Sorrow - Out December 1, 2012
Single Title Romantic Suspense/thrillersTouched by Death – out now!
NovellasIt's a Dog's Life- romantic comedy
Young Adult BooksIn Cassie's CornerDangerous Designs – Book IDeadly Designs – Book 2 – out now!Vampire in Denial – Book I of Blood TiesVampire in Distress – Book 2!Gem Stone Mystery Series- out now!
Non-Fiction BooksCareer Essentials: The ResumeCareer Essentials: The Cover LetterCareer Essentials: The InterviewCareer Essentials: 3 in 1
My 5 Star reviewThis is now official I really love Dale Mayer's books. She rehabilitated me from not reading YA books completely. 
What an exciting read. A Thriller/Mystery I enjoyed from page one. I love this genre immensely  This book had it all. The perfect plot, strong characters, flowing story line that kept you on the edge. I could not put down the book, it was just that good. In the future I would definitely recommend this authors books to all lovers of YA. A good clean read for the young adults. And I do not do that easily.We are introduced to Gemma, Mark, Reid, and Misty 4 Juvie kids that came to live with John and Doris on their farm. Gemma's love for taking pictures brought the plot and element of mystery down on the small group bringing them closer as a family. Which ultimately caused Misty to end up in hospital after a badly going wrong abduction drug overdose.These three young people who had a bad start in life grew on you. Each bringing their own unique characteristics to the plot. Creating and exciting story. Gemma's tenacious behavior sorted through the evidence, making back ups, trusting her instincts. Not trusting the grown ups. Her observations and sorting through the pile of stuff to get to the bottom of this.Mark's ability to keep them close, protecting the three. This for a young man that did not understand the inner workings of a family due to a horrible past.Reid the geek and his sharp, intended look and actions saved them a few times.John and Doris who find themselves in the midst of all this confusion holding on to the unit, fighting for the kids, saving them.Water contamination, criminal elements walking around town with badges and counterfeit ID's, Abductions. Slow working sheriff that did not believe them at first and at times I have to admit that I could shake the man myself. Could this man be so stupid? So glad for the community that demanded actions, finally something going their way.Fixer, the main bad element had me going for awhile but I was glad to figure it out and once his true identity was revealed I could slap myself with congratulations. But I have to admit the author had me guessing for awhile.The suspense building up to the final page to bring everything together in a beautiful conclusion. 
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Design Series Blog Barrage. My reviews and giveaway #cblspromotions

Dangerous Designs (Designs #1)by Dale MayerPublished by Valley Publishing (Indie)Length: 200 pages (eBook format)YA Fantasy RomanceContains elements of action and adventureHeat Level: Sweet
Available at: Amazon - 
Blurb: Drawing is her world...but when her new pencil comes alive, it's his world too.
Her... Storey Dalton is seventeen and now boyfriendless after being dumped via Facebook. Drawing is her escape. It's like as soon as she gets down one image, a dozen more are pressing in on her. Then she realizes her pictures are almost drawing themselves...or is it that her new pencil is alive?
Him... Eric Jordan is a new Ranger and the only son of the Councilman to his world. He's crossed the veil between dimensions to retrieve a lost stylus. But Storey is already experimenting with her new pencil and what her drawings can do - like open portals.
It... The stylus is a soul-bound intelligence from Eric's dimension on Earth and uses Storey's unsuspecting mind to seek its way home, giving her an unbelievable power. She unwittingly opens a third dimension, one that held a dangerous predatory species banished from Eric's world centuries ago, releasing these animals into both dimensions.
Them... Once in Eric's homeland, Storey is blamed for the calamity sentenced to death. When she escapes, Eric is ordered to bring her back or face that same death penalty. With nothing to lose, can they work together across dimensions to save both their worlds?
Excerpt:"Storey, is that you, honey?"
Her mother knocked on the door and pushed it open, the light from the hallway lighting the few silver strands in her otherwise brown hair. "Can't you sleep?"
"Sorry if I woke you." Storey sat up, brushing her own jet black hair back off her face. "Just a bad dream."
"That's because you didn't have any dinner. I checked up on you after the meeting finished. You'd fallen asleep." Her mother's fingers twisted around a dangling lock of hair as she stepped into the room. She bit her lip. "Storey, you have to eat. You're already skinny enough."
Bone rack is what a jock had called her last month. Looking down, Storey realized they could be right. Her hip bones stuck out to match her big elbows. And her body had developed to the point where she barely missed the skinny scarecrow look. Too bad. She might have been able to make that work.
"I'm eating, Mom. They had pizza in class today, so I didn't need my lunch. Ate that on the way home." That was a lie. Still, she had more important things to worry about than food.
Relief washed over her mom's pretty face. "Oh, I'm so glad to hear that. Sometimes I worry about you."
Sometimes? Didn't she mean all the time? Was that normal for moms? Then again, there was a world of difference between normal and her mother.
"What time is it?" Storey looked out the window. Blackness stared back.
"It's just a little after midnight. Please get into your pajamas. You don't want to be sleeping in those jeans." She backed up to the open door. "If you're all right, I'll say good night. It is witching hour, after all." With a carefree grin, her mom closed the door.
Witching hour. Right. Only in her house. Sighing at her mother's antics, Storey collapsed down on her covers and fell into a light, troubled sleep.
"Storey."
She sighed. "What now, Mom?"
No answer. She sat up and glanced at the closed door. Weird. She could've sworn she'd heard someone calling her. Lying down again, she pulled her blankets over top, not bothering to get changed into her nightclothes.
"Storey."
She bolted upright. That's it. Who the hell was playing games with her?
"Storey."
Throwing back the blankets, Storey knelt on her bed. "Who said that?" she hissed into the early morning air. Not trusting the gloomy light, she flicked her bedside lamp on, quickly scanning the room. Empty. "I am so losing it. This is nuts."
Her gaze landed on the backpack on her floor. Her eyes widened. Oh no.
"No, no. Hell, no." She shook her head, slowly at first then more wildly. "This can't be happening. It's a picture. Nothing more. Nothing less. I created you. I can destroy you."
That's exactly what she was going to do. She dragged the backpack onto her bed and opened it. The knot defied her first and second attempts, before she managed to pull the laces apart and yank out her sketchpad. "I don't know what's going on here, but enough is enough."
She flipped to the last page she'd been working on and grabbed it at the top left and pulled. It wouldn't tear off. She tightened her grip and tried again. It refused to budge. Scared now, she threw it on the floor and in a fit of defiance, she jumped on it.
And fell through the picture, through the floor even.
She went right through the doorway in her picture.
Reviews:5.0 out of 5 stars – “A Wonderful Read!”“From beginning to end, Dale Mayer drags the reader on a journey that ends on a cliff! From the beginning, the reader is immediately engaged in the life of Storey Dalton, a teen aged girl who finds herself boyfriend-less and back on the fringes of the social ladder after her boyfriend moves away. Storey's passion is drawing and when she stumbles up a strange pencil in the woods, Storey's life is transformed as she comes to realize the pencil is not ordinary and is leading her to draw things she has never drawn or seen before.
Eric Jordan is sent from another dimension to retrieve the stylus (the pencil), left behind by a scientist. After discovering Storey has the stylus and is quickly bonding with it, Eric has to figure out a way to retrieve the object with hurting her. They soon find themselves in the middle of a dimensional war and a struggle to save both of their worlds.
The novel is a reflection of our modern society and it's treatment of those who are different without being a moral brick to the head. Storey's compassion and tenacity are wonderful to see and I loved the way she influenced others to open their eyes and see their world. The cliffhanger the author placed at the end left me stunned! My understanding is the next novel picks up where this one leaves off. I'm ready to pick up the next one (Book 2) to see what happens next!”--Kmoaton
5.0 out of 5 stars – “Fabulous start to a new series!”“Holy Hannah! Are you trying to kill me, Dale Mayer? Are you?!? You must delight in putting your heroines into horribly taxing situations and then leaving them there like so much baggage! I have to admit that I liked the story before but leaving poor Storey in the lurch she was left in made me gasp and jump online to hunt down when the next book would be available. *curls into a little fetal ball and rocks*
So, in case you couldn't figure it out, this book ends on a pretty hefty cliffhanger. I mean, there are cliffhangers and then there are cliffhangers. This one is the second. This is one that blindsided me. I thought everything was working out and we'd get some happy time before jumping into the next part of the story. Alas, no. Am I salivating to know what happens? Indeed I am.
*deep breath* I liked this book. I liked it quite a lot. I thought Storey was an interesting character. I liked that she thought outside the box. I liked that her questioning of things made Eric begin to question things. I liked that the bad guys aren't all black and white. I have no clue how things are going to play out in the next book and that's kind of a neat feeling. On top of the imminent peril our heroine is in, there are a lot of things that Storey unwittingly did as she was learning to use the stylus that she'll have to figure out how to undo.
Needless to say, I'm looking forward to the next book.”--Kelly Rubidoux
5.0 out of 5 stars – “A unique, wonderful book in a new amazing YA series!”“I think the main character, Storey, may be one of my favorite female leads ever. This girl showed almost no weakness; she was strong, determined, and remained calm in the face of danger. Instead of acting helpless and uncertain, she took charge of pretty much every situation, not afraid of her abilities with the stylus. She only yearned to learn more about what she could do with it. I think Eric was a great match for her - even when things seemed hopeless and the council members in his dimension wanted her dead, he stayed by her side and believed in her. When the book starts out, Eric insists that his world is so much more superior and simply believes in everything he's been told. He really shows growth when he stands up to his father and the rest of the council on Storey's behalf, arguing that she didn't know the repercussions of picking up the stylus (which she thought was just an old pencil).
I absolutely loved the characters, they were multi-dimensional and it was easy to see them grow as the story progressed. I really enjoyed the entire story line, it felt really fresh and unique and the entire book flowed extremely well. I literally could not put it down!
I don't have much bad to say about this book. I would have liked to know more about Eric and his world. From what I can gather it is much like our world, only more advanced since they studied us for many years and learned from our technology. I would have just liked more descriptions about the other dimension (both Eric's and the one where the enemies, Louer's, exist).
Romance Sizzle or Fizzle? : I would have to say sizzle! It was a slow moving relationship, with Storey more wary of Eric in the beginning than anything, wondering why he was so interested in her and her "pencil". As she learns about the stylus and the other dimensions, she realizes she needs Eric in order to survive and decides to work with him to try and fix everything. The more time they spend together, the more they are drawn to each other. Their first kiss caught Storey completely off-guard, but that's all it took for her to realize that maybe she has more feelings for Eric than she thought.
I found this book to be extremely unique. It involved different dimensions, a stylus that is capable of almost anything, and an enemy that, although terrifying, has a tortured past. It was definitely a very refreshing, new YA read.
This book was so different than any I've read lately and it had me hooked from the beginning. There was a nice balance of action, discovery, and mystery, with a nice bit of romance in there as well. The ending will leave you reeling and I guarantee you'll be saying "I need book two NOW!"--Jamie (Bookerella)


Deadly Designs (Designs #2)by Dale MayerPublished by Valley Publishing (Indie)Length: 200 pages (eBook format)YA Fantasy RomanceContains elements of action and adventureHeat Level: Sweet
Available at:Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009OWQWEI/
Blurb: Drawing is her world...but when she's banished to a deadly new world and needs help, it's his world too .
Her... Storey Daltonwants to go home - but something goes terrifyingly wrong and she ends up in her worst nightmare. There's no escape...not without Eric or her stylus. Then she finds someone who needs rescuing even more than she does...
Him... Eric Jordan races to save Storey, only to realize a close family member has betrayed them both. Now the enemy is closing in on him. When he meets up with Storey, he knows her plans are a bad idea, but she won't be dissuaded...and it could be their only way of staying alive.
It... The stylus, now bonded to Storey's artistic soul, is determined to survive this new chaos - against all odds. But damaged from a prolonged separation, he can't help Story or Eric - without making things worse.
Them... Storey is determined to make things right. Eric is determined to help her. Neither counts the personal cost, until their very lives are in danger.
Excerpt #1:Panic sat on the edge of her consciousness, waiting for a moment of weakness to pounce. She'd come to rely on the stylus and sketchbook so much that she found herself at a loss as to what to do now. Her simple codex, not like the high-tech one that Eric wore, didn't appear to be functioning either. She'd tried pushing the buttons, hoping to recreate the same musical combination Eric had used, but the instrument made no sounds.
Had the Councilman managed to switch codexes so Paxton gave her a broken one, too? Or was it the prison walls preventing the codex from functioning? Or her being in an altogether different dimension? She wished she'd taken the time to learn more about how to use these travel machines. She'd figured she had time to study it at her leisure once she got home. Have Eric give her some one-on-one training time this coming weekend, maybe.
Now she was imprisoned with only the codex, which she had no idea how to use, to help her escape. Damn it.
She could excuse her lack of foresight. It had been a hellish couple of days. Her emotions had been all over the place.
Yeah. Hindsight gave her a different perspective. If she couldn't draw her way out of here, or portal her way back through the codex's abilities, she was literally stuck here with only old fashioned methods of escape. Now if only she knew what they were.
She had yet to see her captors. She also had no weapons or anything to make a weapon from. For all intents and purposes, she'd been dumped into a hole in the ground and forgotten.
A horrible thought and one she really didn't want to dwell on.
She couldn't believe how much she missed her stylus. She could only hope whoever had it was taking care of it. There were souls in there. Souls that needed care.
Wait.
She had been able to communicate verbally with her stylus, at least while she'd been holding it. She'd still had to write the answers down, but…what if she scratched a message in the dirt? Would the stylus be able to talk to her? They were still bonded and according to it, would eventually be able to communicate both ways telepathically. Only she had to develop her skills for that to happen.
It was worth a try. But what did she have to scratch in the dirt with? She studied the tab on her jacket zipper. Made from hard metal, it had ripped half off already.
With a hard tug, she pulled the tab off and took several steps forward, looking for where the ground might be softest. Everything that she'd seen so far had been damn near rock. Back where she'd first regained consciousness, she squatted down and scratched, Stylus, can you hear me?
Silence.
She scratched again. Stylus, I'm in trouble. Can you help?
More silence.
Damn it. She didn't want to admit it, but fear was starting an insidious slide inside her mind. She tried again, harder, almost making her fingers bleed from trying to scratch an impression into the ground with such a small tool. Stylus. I need help. Contact Paxton. I need Eric to escape.
Silence.
She bowed her head. What had she expected?
She'd been tossed into a hell hole and no one knew. Except…maybe, the Councilman. The man was a power hungry toad. Remembering the look of satisfaction in his beady eyes as she disappeared to God knew where sent more shivers down her spine. It also had another effect.
Anger and pride rose to battle the loneliness and fear. She would not let him win.
She refused.
Excerpt #2:Closing her eyes she called out to the stylus in a soft whisper. "Are you there?"
A buzz answered her. Stronger, clearer, but still indistinct because she had no way to write down the answers. She grabbed her zipper pull and held it against what must be a seat butted up against the side of the table and asked again.
Slowly her hand moved. Yes.
Oh thank heavens for that.
"Where are you?"
Don't know.
Of course it didn't. Neither did she. But...it was a computer-like thingy so maybe it could send out a beacon. Transmitting is what she thought it was called. Or something like that. She didn't know much about computers except to use one to get onto the Internet.
"Can you send out a signal, a noise to let me know where you are?"
Instantly, there was an odd ring tone going off in her head. Or in the air? No, surely not. She spun around looking for the source. There, in the cupboards. She raced toward the spot, scared to alert whoever was in the other room to her presence. There were deep shelves inside. She quickly searched them. The stylus just looked like an old carpenter's pencil. Dull and dark, it was hard to see in the dark.
The noise was definitely louder here. Excited, she dropped to her knees and checked the bottom spaces. Maybe it had been dropped.
The noise increased to almost deafening now. A good sign. She rummaged through items that made her happy as they were almost recognizable. A ball, maybe a bat? A bunch of toys like a ball on string or wire and a wooden post. Like a child's closet. Off to one side were tablets of some kind. Maybe for writing on, like miniature chalkboards. Even chalk would be a huge help. She should have had some in her backpack – if and when she ever found it. She moved to the next cubby hole and the music in her head changed from a weird ring tone to an almost soothing lullaby.
"Does that mean I'm almost there, Stylus?"
The lullaby increased in volume. It increased so much, she could hardly stand it. She shoved her hand into the jumbled mess and closed around a half dozen objects.
She touched something that made her fingers tingle.
The lullaby came to a dead stop.
Warmth shot up her arm. She withdrew her handful until she could see what she'd snagged clearly.
Her stylus!
Joy shot through her. She was saved.
And then she took another look and stopped. How could this be possible?
There, clutched in her fingers, were three pencils that could have all been styluses. And maybe they were? Who would have stashed these in here, lost and forgotten gems that could have saved these people so much hardship?
She didn't know that they were styluses, but as she studied each one, the magical lettering shone on the side of each one. Unbelievable. Did they have souls attached to them too?
And if there were three, what was the chance there were more?
It was important to find every one. She didn't know how she knew that, but she did. Tucking those three securely into her pocket, she dove into the bottom of the cupboard and sorted through the mess. And found two more. Unbelievable. Now she didn't dare leave any behind. There were people in there, after all.
She felt responsible for getting them to safety, too. Knowing she didn't have the time to spare, but unable to help herself, she went back in for a third and final time, she found one more, really old looking one jammed into the joinery at the very back. Six styluses. Pulling back slightly, a wary eye to the open door, she moved over and checked every cupboard, as fast and as systematically as she could in order to not miss one. Ten panicked minutes later, she had a broken one in her hand. No others though. She'd searched every shelf. Now to safety.
She ran across the room and back into the open doorway from where she'd entered.
Just as she hit the safety of the darkness, she heard a loud grunt behind her.
Shit.
Reviews:5.0 out of 5 stars – “Wow!” “Dale has done it again with this adventure. I really liked that she inserted the last chapter of the previous book 'Dangerous Designs' to bring you back into the story. The world she built, the characters, the motives, all ring true. She has a fantastic imagination. I can't wait for the next book to come out.”--Donna Caubarreaux


About the Author: Dale Mayer is a prolific multi-published writer. She's best known for her Psychic Visions series. Besides her romantic suspense/thrillers, Dale also writes paranormal romance and crossover young adult books in several different genres.  To go with her fiction, she also writes nonfiction in many different fields with books available on resume writing, companion gardening and the US mortgage system. She has recently published her Career Essentials Series . All her books are available in print format as well.
Visit Dale online at: Website - http://www.dalemayer.comTwitter - http://www.twitter.com/dalemayerFacebook - http://www.facebook.com/dalemayer.author

BOOKS BY DALE MAYERPsychic Vision SeriesTuesday's ChildHide'n Go SeekMaddy's FloorGarden of Sorrow - Out December 1, 2012
Single Title Romantic Suspense/thrillersTouched by Death – out now!
NovellasIt's a Dog's Life- romantic comedy
Young Adult BooksIn Cassie's CornerDangerous Designs – Book IDeadly Designs – Book 2 – out now!Vampire in Denial – Book I of Blood TiesVampire in Distress – Book 2!Gem Stone Mystery Series- out now!
Non-Fiction BooksCareer Essentials: The ResumeCareer Essentials: The Cover LetterCareer Essentials: The InterviewCareer Essentials: 3 in 1


My 5 star review of Book 1 in the Design Series
Brilliant master piece in the YA Paranormal genre.Filled with suspense that kept you glued to the pages as the story unfolds of Storey and her ability to draw portals into other dimensions. Creating havoc as she learns to control this powerful tool she picked up while walking in the woods, close to the town she was living in.We met up with the sixteen year old Storey in a small town. Shunned by most peers she was used to be on her own. What made matters worse was her mother's choice in life style. Causing endless problems and allowing the teenager to withdrew from any one.But when she picked up the stylus or pencil her world changed. Not necessarily for the better. She met up with a young man Eric, from another dimension discovering there were more worlds on Earth she care to admit.This is where all the drama begins and you meet his father, autocratic in his ways, Paxton Eric's mentor; and she found a people that was so far superior but when it came to action they were cowards. And once again a earthling, young girl must save the day.Realizing she could move through the veils through the sketches she made she learn about her own strengths abilities and her willingness to help these people that has a death banned on her. Accusing her for their own troubles.She learn about the Louers wrapped in mystery and trying to understand their world.Then she found out by simply asking questions that the stylus could not only sketch but also "talk" to her and so help Eric's people from the awaiting doom.Storey immersed from a distant, depressed young woman to be a strong, willful woman that spring into action. Spirited and spontaneous, finding meaning in her life.Brilliantly written that caused me to read the book quickly, and then left with a cliff hanger.But do not fear, Book 2 is out.Highly recommended to lovers of YA Urban Fantasy Suspense Novels.
My 5 star review of Book 2 in the Design SeriesThe author's imagination is absolutely great to come up with this idea, creating dimensions with the help of a seventeen year old artist and a stylus. 
The story continues, thankfully with Storey and Eric who discovers the deceit of the Councilman, his father.
They met up with Tammy and her pet. A six year old little girl and Louer.
They are transported from dimension to dimension, traveling back to end up in her room once again, solving the problem of Tammy and how to get her to her family.
Romance is also in the air between the two young people and hopefully it will continue since once again we are left with a cliffhanger at the end. Meaning Book 3 will come.{smile}
The characters develop more strongly although their was a time of break down for Storey as the enormity of the task at hand was just to big. Which is understandable under the circumstances.
The flow of the story line, the build up in the plot still continue to give the reader a good read and the reason to buy the next book.
A good clean series for parents to give to their teenagers with a love for urban fantasy.

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The Reluctant Santa. Review and giveaway #CBLSPromorions

The Reluctant Santaby Sylvia McDanielPublished by Virtual BooksellerGenres: Paranormal RomanceHeat Level: SensualLength: 200 pages/80,000 words
Available at: Amazon 
Blurb:Colin McDermott has one last chance to get Christmas right. Since his mother abandoned him on Christmas Eve never to return, Colin McDermott has hated Christmas and sworn never to have children. But this year two angels are giving him everything he didn't want. A Santa suit, a child and a chance at love again. This is his last chance to learn the true meaning of Christmas.
Excerpt:“His soul is mine,” Devon, the devil's angel, said. He watched the humans, who were oblivious to his presence, gathered in the sales office. One of the best things about being an angel was his ability to pop into just about anywhere and spy on his subjects without their knowledge. He could observe the humans as if were watching a play and even occasionally act as director.
A chill wind howled outside the downtown Denveroffice, heralding the arrival of winter and the holiday season. The perfect time of year to increase his soul count. Devonstudied his next soul, a brown-haired young man with expressive brows and a quirky grin. Unbeknownst to him, the salesman's life meter was about to expire unless he made drastic changes.
“Devon," a voice echoed into the atmosphere before the being that irritated him the most shimmered into his vision. “Doing a soul count before he's yours?”
Slowly, an angel materialized, clad from head to toe in a white leather jacket and white knee-high boots fit snug over white leather pants. A gold belt around her waist, held a cross that signified sergeant, angel, first class. Her halo was tilted at a rakish angle. In earth terms, Gabriella looked hot.
“Whoever is in charge of your wardrobe, I like the changes they’ve made,” Devonsaid, letting his eyes rake her until a searing heat reminded him he was crossing boundaries. "Please tell me they ditched the boring robes."
With a toss of her blonde hair, her blue eyes flashed, glinting silver as her brows rose.
“My robes are hardly boring, but no, one of my cases is a motorcyclist. I'm riding shotgun today, trying to keep him from splattering all over the highway. The robes kept blowing up in my face, so I found a solution.”
"Nice!" Devon shook his head and forced his eyes back to the human whose life he'd soon influence. “I thought your promotion at Easter took you out of the saving souls division.”
Gabriella smiled as the air around her shimmered. Why didn’t the angels from purgatory patrol get that shimmery essence?
“Devon, we work so…well together” she said, drawing out the word until he wanted to snap at her. He held onto his temper.
“We're all looking for ways to make quota this time of year. Only the strongest stay out of the pit, and every time I come up against you, I lose. But not this time. This one belongs to me,” he announced, staring at the man whose only interest in life was making money. No family, no girlfriends, no friends— just work and money.
Gabriella tsked. “Now why would you want to send this poor man to hell for eternity? He just needs a little coaxing to choose the right path.”
Devon sighed. “His time is about to expire. I'm here to collect his soul.”
“Maybe,” she said. “Unless, I can give him some guidance and save him from evil.”
“Not this time. Heavenly angels may not be able to play dirty, but I can,” he said, smiling at Gabriella. “And I intend to win this one.” Gabriella laughed.
"Always so arrogant, Devon." She glanced at their human. “His case is challenging, but I'm certain I can help him.”
She turned toward Devon, her brows rising. “Playing dirty landed you where you are now. Why should I expect anything less?”
“How I got here doesn’t matter. I need this soul,” he snapped. "You make your soul count or the big man sends you back to the pit to fight and claw your way back for another chance."
“And Colin McDermott needs to be saved,” Gabriella said, swirling back to their subject. “I mean, look at the poor man. He has no idea his priorities are in the wrong place. He's a selfish, greedy man because he's unloved."
“Love!" Devonexclaimed. "You heavenly angels think loving someone solves everything.”
Gabriella shook her head at Devon, her blue eyes darkening with some sort of power. “Even you deserved love, Devon. In fact, if I had been your angel, I would found someone to show you love. Hopefully, you'd have been smart enough to grab the lifeline."
“Well, you weren't my angel, and now I'm the big man's soul catcher.”
“It's simple, Devon. Why would you want to lure more men into the darkness you already face?” she asked.
Devon clenched his fist, struggling to control the frustration that spiraled through him. Hell was not a place anyone planned on going. “The pit!" he said. "Let’s just concentrate on the human.”
"I already was." She contemplated Colin McDermott. “He's quite handsome with those long, sandy lashes and sparkling honey eyes. If I were human, one look and he’d melt my heart.”
“Women on earth know he's not a good risk. I could wrap this case up before Christmas, if you weren't here."
“Too bad. I'm here to keep you from destroying him,” she said, giving him a stern frown. “The poor soul has no idea of what he's about to face. I'm sure you’ve got some nasty surprises in store for him, some hard to resist temptations. But hopefully, with my guidance, he'll make the changes his life needs.”
Devon shook his head. “No, by Christmas he’ll be mine. Count on it."
About the Author:Sylvia McDaniel and her very supportive husband Don, the love of her life, live in Texas with son Shane, Putz the klutzy dachshund and Ashley our shy dachshund. During the day, she works for a small insurance agency from home, helping clients with their commercial insurance coverage. 
The weekends are spent working out in the garden until the temperature climbs above ninety degrees. Recently, with the help of her husband, she learned to make homemade blueberry and blackberry jam. Cooking is not her favorite past-time and she prefers Don’s cooking any day of the week.
Currently, she’s written fourteen novels.  In the last year, she’s been a finalist in six writing contests and was a 1996 Romance Writers of America Golden Heart finalist. Sylvia is very involved with the Dallas Area Romance Authors.
She can be reached by email at Sylvia.McDaniel@verizon.net.
Visit Sylvia online at: Website - http://www.sylviamcdaniel.comBlog - http://plottingprincesses.blogspot.comFacebook - http://www.facebook.com/SylviaMcDanielAuthorTwitter - @WriterSylvia

My 5 Star Review
A contemporary  romance with all the ingredients to make this a enjoyable quick read for the festive season.
With a touched of Touched by an Angel, a well known series awhile back.
Good versus evil is on the go when a young man Colin McDermott faced his old college sweetheart after six years.
But now she had a beautiful little girl at her side and he was following head over heals in love with both.
Due to many miss-communication they struggled to get together while coping with fear of the past and his ambition to be the Western Division Director. Without knowing the evil demon controlled the situation so that Colin is sometimes faced with wrong choices which torn the fragile relationship apart. But when he finally gets it right and make a positive choice his world was set right. Sending evil away.
Brooke the young woman who ran away six years ago from him, concealing that he would be a father had a hard time with her emotions, protective over her daughter. Assuming the worst from Colin without knowing his history and the fear he had to fight.
Colin hated Christmas and she forced him to be Santa to get the sale he desired to place him in the winning position and reluctantly he gave in. In the process he met the little five year old, Olivia and he was hooked. A tragic accident allow him to know his child and anger almost blinded him but at the end when everything was said and done and they were willing to listen and it all worked out.
A sweet love story that will warm the heart.


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