Lynelle Clark's Blog, page 44

Cover Reveal: A season for killing blondes by Joanne Guidoccio. #Cozymystery #Giveaway

A Season for Killing Blondes by Joanne Guidoccio Genre: Cozy Mystery
Publisher: The Wild Rose PressRelease Date: May 2015


Hours before the opening of her career counseling practice, Gilda Greco discovers the dead body of golden girl Carrie Ann Godfrey, neatly arranged in the dumpster outside her office. Gilda’s life and budding career are stalled as Detective Carlo Fantin, her former high school crush, conducts the investigation.

When three more dead blondes turn up all brutally strangled and deposited near Gilda’s favorite haunts, she is pegged as a prime suspect for the murders. Frustrated by Carlo’s chilly detective persona and the mean girl antics of Carrie Ann’s meddling relatives, Gilda decides to launch her own investigation. She discovers a gaggle of suspects, among them a yoga instructor in need of anger management training, a lecherous photographer, and fourteen ex-boyfriends.

As the puzzle pieces fall into place, shocking revelations emerge, forcing Gilda to confront the envy and deceit she has long overlooked.




In high school, Joanne dabbled in poetry, but it would be over three decades before she entertained the idea of writing as a career. She listened to her practical Italian side and earned degrees in mathematics and education. She experienced many fulfilling moments as she watched her students develop an appreciation (and sometimes, love) of mathematics. Later, she obtained a postgraduate diploma as a career development practitioner and put that skill set to use in the co-operative education classroom. She welcomed this opportunity to help her students experience personal growth and acquire career direction through their placements.

In 2008, she took advantage of early retirement and decided to launch a second career that would tap into her creative side and utilize her well-honed organizational skills. Slowly, a writing practice emerged. Her articles and book reviews were published in newspapers, magazines, and online. When she tried her hand at fiction, she made reinvention a recurring theme in her novels and short stories. A member of Sisters in Crime, Crime Writers of Canada, and Romance Writers of America, Joanne writes paranormal romance, cozy mysteries, and inspirational literature from her home base of Guelph, Ontario.




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Sale Blitz: Love secret torment by Stacy L. Darnell. When fate steps in, their lives are irrevocably changed.

SYNOPSIS:
Three lives entangled…

Sam- Carefree, innocent, and in love. All is destroyed when life has other plans. Love isn't easy, especially when your heart is torn in two.

Alec- The weight of a life changing secret is suffocating. His love for her is his oxygen. Will his love be enough or will he be too late?

Emmett- Life gives and life takes away. Tormented by what and who he can’t have. Will he fight or lose his soul?

When fate steps in, their lives are irrevocably changed.

Love's Secret Torment is the story of three people's search for answers as they deal with life's cruel turns. Does surviving their destiny and living with the aftermath come at too great a cost? Join them on their journey as they face the rocky steps of a fate-twisted adulthood.


PURCHASE LINKS:

Amazon US http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UPA1F8G

Amazon CA http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00UPA1F8G

Amazon UK http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00UPA1F8G

Amazon AU http://www.amazon.com.au/gp/product/B00UPA1F8G

Amazon IN http://www.amazon.in/gp/product/B00UPA1F8G

Nook: http://barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1121423496

Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Stacy_L_Darnell_Love_s_Secret_Torment?id=wB43BwAAQBAJ

Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/love-s-secret-torment

iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/loves-secret-torment/id978014120

Book Tour: Twice Lost by Jennifer Field. Yesterday she was normal, today she’s not only in a fight for her life, but also the lives of all beings that have been disappearing for centuries.

  Title: Twice Lost Author: Jennifer Fields Genre: Paranormal Erotica Book Tour: April 20-24 Hosted by: SBB Promotions


Jenna Thanatos thought she was ordinary; just your everyday girl with a healthy sexual appetite and a few kinks to boot. After moving to Maine to be closer to her boyfriend, Kyle, Jenna was starting a new chapter in her life. Little did she know, this chapter had more to offer than she ever thought possible.One night of fun exhibitionism turns Jenna’s world upside down and shoves her face first into a world she never knew existed. Harbinger. Female Harbinger. The thing of legends, a myth foretold by ancient seers, but it couldn’t be true. She was just her. Besides, things like that didn’t exist. After being kidnapped, shot at, chased, and sprouting wings, she wasn’t so sure anymore.Timoteus, an ancient Harbinger, has been searching for Jenna for years after finding out that she truly did exist, keeping a long-term promise to an old friend to watch over his family line. His duties were to protect her, train her, and make the foretold prophecy come to fruition. After saving Jenna, they find themselves still being hunted, landing Tim right in the middle of an operation he never dreamed could exist.Benneit Colebrook took over his father’s business after his death last year. When the mention of a female Harbinger was whispered in his ear, he knew he had to have the rare and precious being to add to his collection. And, he would do anything to get her.Jenna now finds herself in an underground compound with two sexy as hell men, hiding away from the people hell-bent on taking her. Why? She has no clue. Yesterday she was normal, today she’s not only in a fight for her life, but also the lives of all beings that have been disappearing for centuries.Will Jenna be able to accept who she is and face this new world head-on, or will everything come crumbling down before she has a fighting chance?




Jennifer's debut full length novel Twice Lost - Book 1 in the Harbinger Series was released in September 2014 under the Forever Red Publishing label. She is currently working on four Novella length books within the Harbinger Series to be released in-between her full length novels just to keep the steaminess going. She currently lives in Western Massachusetts and has a love for adventure that makes her who she truly is. As an avid mountain climber & hiker it is not unusual for her to be hanging off of a 5.9 in the Adirondacks or the Shawangunk Mountain ranges. During the off season of climbing, also known as winter, she attends the New England Center for Circus Arts where she studied static trapeze (think Cirque rather than Circus). She an only child so has her mother to thank for her over active imagination and knack for storytelling. Over the years she's written several short stories of the "naughty" nature. But had never envisioned herself as a writer. Just someone who enjoyed telling a steamy story

Book review: The Money Game by Michael A. Smith. #Thriller #Bookreview

The Money GameBy Michael A. SmithGenre: Urban Crime Thriller


SYNOPSIS:
AUTHOR BIO
Michael A. Smith is the author of six published novels, all described on his Website, www.goodnovels.org.  He began his career as a newspaper reporter, and was editor of the Golden, Colorado Daily Transcript.  He also was Associate Director, Illinois Board of Higher Education, and Press Secretary, Congressman Richard Durbin.  He is a member of the Authors Guild.
www.goodnovels.org  
Find The Money Game on Amazon: http://amzn.to/1Clxyi8
Charlene's 4 star review:

Although the book started out very slow for me, the story picked up to a fast paced and intense thriller.
The author captured an unique story with many sides whereby each decision made entangles a chain reaction among the characters. Real Intense Human Emotions we can relate to. At times I Simply did not know what to expect next and that made the book more fascinating to me. A Tangled web of Greed.

Cover Reveal: Love Blooms on Main Street. Every flower tells a story.

  Title: Love Blooms on Main Street Author: Authors of Main Street Cover Reveal; April 15 Release Date: 04/28 Hosted by: SBB Promotions     Every flower tells a story. Just as the first fragrant blooms of spring stir the senses, Love Blooms is sure to touch your heart. Ranging from sweet to spicy, these stand-alone contemporary romances are inspired by the symbolism of flowers, with each story representing a different flower.
Small Town Hot Shot Bride by Stephanie Queen, USA Today bestselling author: Red roses symbolize compassion and romantic love. Tammy is a hot shot in a small town, but she's tired of getting left behind by guys just passing through. Will she get swept up by charming out-of-towner Roark and his runaway train attraction? Or will she derail him for good?Forever Your Valentine by Susan R. Hughes, national bestselling author: Daisies symbolize loyal love.Attraction crackles between Faith and Cole when they meet, but since Cole’s career takes him on the road most of the year, Faith resolves to keep their relationship platonic. Will one night together ruin their friendship, or could they be falling in love?Perfect Match by Carol DeVaney, national bestselling author: Forget-me-nots symbolize true love and remembrance. Sometimes love needs a little push. Can two lonely hearts re-kindle their abandoned passion the second time around?Naomi’s Heart by Pepper Phillips, national bestselling author: Paperwhite narcissus has the most delicious fragrance, bringing spring into the room. Delighted that Ben is back in Boggy Bayou, Naomi teams up with him to enter the Egg Knocking contest. Can they win? Can Naomi figure out why Ben is kissing her? Can her heart stand it if Ben realizes that she’s not what he deserves?Heather of His Heart by Leigh Morgan, national bestselling author: Heather symbolizes admiration, beauty, good luck and protection from danger. Heather has given up on the idea of finding romantic love. Billy never had the idea in the first place. When circumstances throw them together, they find that love, like heather, blooms in the most unlikely places.Mother’s Day Babies by Mona Risk, USA Today bestselling author: White lilies symbolizes virtue. Can love bloom between a powerful TV Director who’s certainly not marriage material and a widow loyal to her late husband?To Have & To Hold by E. Ayers, national bestselling author: Peonies symbolize compassion, happiness and prosperity. When Melissa meets Drexel, she realizes that the estate’s gardener has found something that she’s never had—happiness. But sometimes things aren’t what they appear to be, and she needs to follow her heart.Call Me Yours by Kelly Rae, national bestselling author: Hydrangeas symbolize devotion and gratefulness.When Thad finds himself falling for Brianna, the only surprise is how natural it feels. It's going to take more than words to convince her, but he will do anything to hear her say, Call Me Yours.Love at the Apple Blossom Inn by Kristy Tate, national bestselling author: Scotch broom symbolizes overwhelming and everlasting love. Small-town girl Janey Tyler falls for Eric Roudell, the quiet and reclusive music teacher. But will she still love him when she discovers he is really Derrick Cordell, the rock star?Old Enough to Know Better by Joan Reeves, national bestselling author: White roses symbolize new beginnings. Stormy Clarkson, on the brink of fifty, is crushing on sexy Sean Butler. He's been after her for six months, but she's resisted every advance. One night he kisses her. That kiss changes everything!

COMING SOON

B&N http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love-blooms-on-main-street-stephanie-queen/1121725058?ean=2940151699266&itm=1&usri=2940151699266
Kobo-https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/love-blooms-on-main-street
A group of authors you might meet on main street in your town. We each have our own store-front style for colorful book choices from Main Street. 
Stephanie Queen: Susan R Hughes:Carol Devaney: / Carol Devaney on Facebook Pepper Phillips:Leigh Morgan:Mona Risk: E. Ayers:Kelly Rae: / Kelly Rae on Facebook: Kristy Tate:Joan Reeves:

Fly me to the Moon by Bev Elle. Will the changes he's made be enough this time, or will secrets tear them apart? #Romance #Giveaway

BOOK INFORMATIONTITLE – Fly Me To The Moon SERIES – N/A AUTHOR – Bev Elle GENRE – Contemporary Romance LENGTH (Pages/# Words) - 124 PUBLISHER – Bev Elle Press COVER ARTIST – Amy Queau - Q Designs BOOK SYNOPSISTicketing agent Jessamy Taylor has been in a dating slump exacerbated by moving her sickly mother into her home. The truth is she's never gotten over the quirky Dr. Griffin Sanderson whose Obsessive Compulsive Disorder drives her crazy, despite his excellent bedside manner.Fly Me To The Moon is a love song covered by many, the most memorable being Frank Sinatra. Griffin whistles this tune incessantly, but that's just one of the many odd quirks Jessamy Taylor either loves or hates about him. Since their ill-fated love affair two years prior, she's found no one to replace the good doctor.A date with a self-absorbed jerk goes awry for Jessamy, and somehow the night ends with her in Griffin's arms. Will the changes he's made be enough this time, or will secrets tear them apart?

BUY & TBR LINKSAMAZON KINDLE US – AMAZON KINDLE CA – AMAZON KINDLE UK – AMAZON PAPERBACK – BARNES & NOBLES NOOK – BARNES & NOBLES NOOK UK – BARNES & NOBLES PAPERBACK – ITUNES –  GOODREADS

EXCERPT

“Look!” Kyla said. “Griffin’s holding the Fowlers’ baby. Now doesn’t that make your ovaries want to explode?”

Jessamy turned her head slowly, knowing the sight would slay her. Griffin never held babies. She took it all in as if in slow motion. Mark was holding their toddler in place as Jenny was cleaning up the sticky popsicle he was covered in, while Griffin was holding the four-month old. He cradled her a bit nervously at first, then he seemed to get his baby-holding legs under him and finally began to smile and talk to her.

Jessamy and Kyla could hear her baby giggle from where they stood. “Aww!” They said in tandem.

“Now that right there ought to earn a man another chance,” Kyla said.

AUTHOR BIOBev Elle is the author of sweet and spicy, contemporary romance. She's a lover of books - those already written, and those she harbors in her very active imagination. Writing is a passion she's had for many years, but was unable to act upon. Until now. Bev Elle is the mother of three human children and two canines. She is also the lover of one husband. When Bev isn't writing in her spare time after work, she is thinking of doing so.AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKSAMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – WEBSITE / BLOG – FACEBOOK – TWITTER – GOOGLE+ – PINTEREST – TUMBLR – GOODREADS – LINKEDIN – TSU – INSTAGRAM –  NEWSLETTER GIVEAWAY$15 Amazon Giftcard a Rafflecopter giveaway Blitz Organized & Hosted By

Master of Menage, Book 7 has been released today. Their Virgin Mistress by Shayla Black & Lexi Blake.

 
 

One wild night leads to heartache…Tori Glen loves her new job as an image consultant for Thurston-Hughes Inc. The trouble is, she’s also in love with the three brothers who own it, Oliver, Rory, and Callum. They’re handsome, successful, aristocratic, and way out of this small-town Texas girl’s league. So she remains a loyal professional—until the night she finds a heartbroken Oliver desperate for someone to love. Tori knows she should resist…but it’s so tempting to give in.And a desperate plan…Callum and Rory have denied their desire for Tori, hoping she’ll heal their older brother, who was so brutalized by his late wife’s betrayal. But when Oliver cruelly turns Tori away in the harsh light of day, she tenders her resignation. Rory and Callum realize that to save their brother, they must embrace the unconventional sort of family they’ve always wanted—with Tori at its center. And it all starts with seducing her…That could lead to happily ever after—or murder.Isolated with the brothers at an elegant English country manor, they begin awakening Tori to the most sensual of pleasures. But consumed with regret, Oliver won’t be denied the chance to embrace the only woman worth the risk of loving again. What begins as a rivalry veers toward the future they’ve only dared to dream of. But a stranger is watching and waiting for a chance at revenge. Can the brothers come together to embrace the woman they love and defeat a killer?



AMAZON * iBOOKS * NOOK * KOBO GOOGLE PLAY * SMASHWORDS * ALL ROMANCE * AMAZON UK Masters of Ménage Series

Their Virgin Captive Masters of Ménage, Book 1 AMAZON * AMAZON UK * Nook * iBooks * Kobo * All Romance * Smashwords



Their Virgin's Secret Masters of Ménage, Book 2 Kindle * Kindle UK * Nook * iBooks * Kobo * All Romance * Smashwords



Their Virgin Concubine Masters of Ménage, Book 3 Kindle * Kindle UK * Nook * iBooks * Kobo * All Romance * Smashwords



Their Virgin Princess Masters of Ménage, Book 4 Kindle * Kindle UK * Nook * iBooks * Kobo * All Romance * Smashwords



Their Virgin Hostage Masters of Ménage, Book 5 Kindle * Kindle UK * Nook * iBooks * Kobo * All Romance * Smashwords



Their Virgin Secretary Masters of Ménage, Book 6 Kindle * Kindle UK * Nook * iBooks * Kobo * All Romance * Smashwords



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ABOUT SHAYLA BLACK Shayla Black (aka Shelley Bradley) is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over forty sizzling contemporary, erotic, paranormal, and historical romances produced via traditional, small press, independent, and audio publishing. She lives in Texas with her husband, munchkin, and one very spoiled cat. In her “free” time, she enjoys reality TV, reading and listening to an eclectic blend of music. Shayla’s books have been translated in about a dozen languages. She has been nominated for career achievement in erotic romance by RT Bookclub, as well as twice nominated for Best Erotic Romance of the year. Additionally, she’s either won or been nominated for the Passionate Plume, the Holt Medallion, Colorado Romance Writers Award of Excellence, and the National Reader’s Choice Awards. A writing risk-taker, Shayla enjoys tackling writing challenges with every new book.
 Connect with me online: Facebook I Twitter I Website I Newsletter I Goodreads

 *******
ABOUT LEXI BLAKE Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance that she found success. She likes to find humor in the strangest places. Lexi believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome or foursome may seem. She also writes contemporary Western ménage as Sophie Oak.
  Connect with Lexi online: Facebook: Lexi Blake Twitter: https://twitter.com/authorlexiblake Website: www.LexiBlake.net Sign up for Lexi's free newsletter here.

The Australian by Lesley Young. The trouble is, how do you pursue a woman whose definition of flirting comes straight out of the Merriam-Webster Dictionary? #Romance #Giveaway

SYNOPSIS:

Charlie Sykes takes everything and everyone at face value—and believes life would be a lot easier if everyone else did, too. Aussie Jace Knight, international hotelier and purported playboy, has never met anyone like the absurdly literal and obliviously beautiful American who applies for his personal assistant position. The trouble is, how do you pursue a woman whose definition of flirting comes straight out of the Merriam-Webster Dictionary? That, and he’s not the only one after Charlie. Seems Mr. Knight might not be a reformed criminal after all. 
Soon, Charlie’s immersed in a whirlwind of international espionage that takes her from the hip streets of Sydney to the majestic Great Barrier Reef and the wild, desolate outback. A dangerous trap’s being set, but how will Charlie protect herself and prevent a tragic betrayal, when she can’t even sort out what her heart’s telling her?









Touring Down Under’s never been more exciting!
Sizzling romance andcharacter development and intricate plot! —Lesley Young’s electrifying THE AUSTRALIAN nails the elusive triad
 Readers of Lesley Young’s The Frenchman compared her writing to Kresley Cole’s and Samantha Young’s, only faster-paced and edgier. Now, she delivers again in her brand new stand-alone book, The Australian—an unexpected, heart-thumping story about a vulnerable girl who moves Down Under to start her life fresh and falls in love with a dangerous man.
You’ll root for this heroine from page one!!
Charlie Sykes takes everything and everyone at face value—and believes life would be a lot easier if everyone else did, too. Aussie Jace Knight, international hotelier and purported playboy, has never met anyone like the absurdly literal and obliviously beautiful American who applies to be his personal assistant. The trouble is, how do you pursue a woman whose definition of flirting comes straight out of the Merriam-Webster Dictionary? That, and he’s not the only the one after Charlie. Seems Mr. Knight might not be a reformed criminal after all. 
Soon, Charlie’s immersed in a whirlwind of international espionage that takes her from the hip streets of Sydney to the majestic Great Barrier Reef and the wild, desolate outback. A dangerous trap’s being set, but how will Charlie protect herself and prevent a tragic betrayal, when she can’t even sort out what her heart’s telling her?
Review a book you and your readers will love!!

This novel’s original, funny, and pulsating. It features shiver-inducing passionate sex scenes, and edge-of-your seat plot twists and turns. But most of all, you’ll find yourself attached to Charlie Sykes right away, and your desire to see her succeed will tug you fast down and deep into an unforgettable story.

SERIES

The Frenchman (Crime Royalty Romance #1) http://amzn.com/B00QJGFZMM
The Australian (Crime Royalty Romance #2)http://amzn.to/1DSGBGq


EXCERPT:
I slid into a soft leather upright, and put my satchel on the floor beside me. Mr. Knight said nothing. I waited, calmly, expecting him to peruse my prominent breasts, especially since my nipples were no doubt peaked through my thin blouse and bra. But, he did not, which I greatly respected. Instead, he openly appraised my face, and finally, smiled.“So Miss Sykes, what brings such a beautiful yank to Sydney then?” “My looks are not at all pertinent, Mr. Knight.” His smile dropped. “I chose Australia spontaneously,” I offered, having enough sense not to share the Muriel’s Wedding detail. “I simply moved here to start fresh.”He leaned forward in his chair, examining me much closer, eyes narrowed. “There are only a few reasons why a woman such as yourself leaves America for down under . . . Miss Sykes.”I waited for his assumption. “You’re running from someone. An ex? Husband? Boyfriend?” I did not like the way he eyed me just then.“Incorrect on all counts,” I informed him. “I have never had any of those. But I do not believe my sexual history, or lack of it, is pertinent to the job interview.” As I spoke, his full lips had popped open and his eyebrows had hiked farther up, creating strong lines in his forehead. “Here we go,” I thought, frowning. Something I was doing was confusing him. Of course, I had no idea what it was. My tone of voice? Something I had said? It was like trying to figure out  an alien alphabet. I cleared my throat. “However, you can be rest assured I am in Australia for no reason other than a desire to live life, finally, and that I have no intentions of leaving.” I did not want him to think I was not capable of a long-term commitment to the company should things work out.





AUTHOR BIO:
Do you want the Author Bio and Author Pic to be included in the Media Kit that is forwarded to the blogs/bloggers for posting?  If so, please copy and paste here and forward a picture when you return this form.Lesley Young is an award-winning journalist by day and a compulsive romance novelist by night. Her most recent series—Crime Royalty Romance—features unforgettable heroines who fall in love with dangerous men while on adventures abroad. Her fast-paced novels are rich with intricate plots, sizzling romance and gripping character development. You'll root for her characters from page one!

AUTHOR MEDIA LINKS:

Website: www.LesleyYoungBooks.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LesleyYoungBooks?fref=tsTwitter: @LesleyYoungBksGOOD READS: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7142436.Lesley_Young





Existing Book Links The Frenchman (#1 Crime Royalty Romance)http://amzn.com/B00QJGFZMM
The Australian (Crime Royalty Romance #2)http://amzn.to/1DSGBGq

Sky’s End (#1 Cassiel Winters Series)http://amzn.com/B00DXV8G9K



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Release day Blitz: Lady of the Flames by Barbara Monajem. Magic is fraught with peril—but so is love. #Giveaway #Guestpost #Historical #Paranormal #Romance #Excerpt

Lady of the Flames by Barbara Monajem Series: A Most Peculiar SeasonGenre: Regency Historical Paranormal RomanceRelease Date: March 23, 2015



From the desk of....Barbara MonajemPast and Present
I owe the British Secret Service an apology. Not the present day service, of course, of which I happily know nothing, but the equivalent of two hundred years ago. I made them pretty inefficient in Lady of the Flames, but is it really likely that two amateurs (the hero, Lord Fen, and his Cockney business partner) would do a better job of catching traitors and spies? Is it likely that a pampered society beauty would hold her own in the world of danger and intrigue?

Probably not. But this is fiction, and there’s magic, too, which puts the ordinary spy-catchers at a disadvantage.

On the other hand, Lady of the Flames realistic in some ways. Back in the day, the authorities didn't look far when someone was accused of a crime. If you were seen driving a cart with escaping French prisoners, it wouldn't occur to them that you might be an innocent dupe. If you were of a lower class, like Fen’s partner, you didn't stand a chance. They would throw you into prison and execute you forthwith.

The pampered society beauty didn't have it easy either. She was likely to be pushed into marrying for all the wrong reasons: wealth, status, family obligations, and so on. Andromeda in Lady of the Flames is lucky—she finds out her betrothed is a traitor before she has a chance to say I do.

One of the things I love most about writing historical romance is the contrast between present and past—as well as the ways things stay the same. We have far better methods for solving crimes—and yet even today, innocent people sometimes go to prison for crimes they didn't commit. Class distinctions are becoming more and more blurred—and yet, too many people still marry for materialistic reasons and regret it later.

(But not in a romance, where happy endings are the rule!)

Would you like to have lived two hundred years ago? Do you think we’re really better off now? What if you could be transported two hundred years into the future? What will be different, and what will be just the same?


Magic is fraught with peril—but so is love.

Lord Fenimore Trent’s uncanny affinity for knives and other sharp blades led to knife fights, duels, and murderous brawls. Five years ago, he faced a choice: marry Andromeda Gibbons, the woman he loved, or find a safe, peaceful use for his blades by opening a furniture shop—an unacceptable occupation for a man of noble birth. The choice made itself when Andromeda turned to another man. The furniture shop prospered, but now Fen’s partner has been accused of treason. In order to root out the real traitor, he may face another unpalatable choice—to resort to the violent use of his blades once again.

Once upon a time, Andromeda Gibbons believed in magic. That belief faded after her mother’s death and vanished completely when Lord Fenimore, the man she loved, spurned her. Five years later, Andromeda has molded herself into a perfect—and perfectly unhappy—lady. When she overhears her haughty betrothed, the Earl of Slough, plotting treason, she flees into the London night—to Fen, the one man she knows she can trust. But taking refuge with Fen proves to mean far more than getting help—it means learning to believe in love, magic, and the real Andromeda once again.



Years ago, Andromeda had felt no need to talk when with Fen, but now it was uncomfortable, like conversing with a stranger. She took a sip of coffee and ate a sausage roll. She sipped some more coffee. She gazed around the room and finally found something to say.

“Did you carve the figures on your looking-glass frame?” she said. As a boy, he had whittled constantly. “They seem so…familiar somehow.”

“They should,” he said with a sudden smile. “I carved it from my memories of the fairies and hobgoblins back home.”

“Fairies and hobgoblins?”

“At your father’s estate,” he said. “Surely you remember Cuff the bedchamber hob, and Heck the buttery spirit, and all the rest.”

“My mother told stories about them,” Andromeda said, nostalgia filling her again. “I must say, I like the way you've imagined them.”

Fen frowned at her, his smile fading, his eyes perplexed. “I didn't imagine them,” he said. “I saw them.”

Andromeda rolled her eyes. “That sounds like something my mother would have said.”

“Because she saw them, too.”

Andromeda began to be annoyed. “Don’t be ridiculous, Fen. She made up stories based on tales she was told as a child.”

Fen shook his head. “You saw them when you were small. You saw Cuff and Heck and the others. We both did.”

“No,” Andromeda said. “We saw movement out of the corners of our eyes and said they were fairies, but we were just playing games.”

Fen’s expression was pained. “You really don’t remember, do you?”

“There’s nothing to remember,” she insisted, wolfing down another cream puff. “As a matter of fact, that happened to me this morning. I had the impression that one of the creatures on the looking-glass winked at me, but of course it didn't really do so.”

“What a pity,” Fen said.

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“That you've forgotten. That wink was Cuff’s way of saying good-day to you. He’s somewhere hereabouts. He’s the only one I didn't have to carve from memory, because he came with me when I left home.” He glanced toward the tin cup and plate by the wall. “He ate the bread and milk I put out, and I gave him the rest of your brandy, too.”

She couldn't stand any more of this. “Fen, stop this nonsense! We’re in danger from traitors and spies who murder people, and all you can talk about is hobgoblins.”

He went on as if she hadn't spoken. “I wondered why he came with me when I left, but it’s because he enjoys human company.” He grimaced. “Your father and aunt aren't his sort of humans. I thought you were, and so did your mother, but evidently you’re not.”

That struck her like a blow. “What do you mean, my mother thought I was. Was what?”

“She had a sizeable amount of fairy blood, so she thought you must have some, too—but perhaps she was wrong.” He paused. “I know I have some. It’s not uncommon for children to see fairies, but I didn't lose that when I grew up. Not only that, it’s their magic that guides my knives and tools, and inspires me when it comes to furniture design.”

She couldn't bear it. “Stop it! You’re as—as mad as my mother was.”

“She wasn't mad, Andromeda.” He sighed. “And whether or not you see the fairies, they’re still here.”

She put her hands to her ears and shut her eyes. After all the chaos of yesterday, this was too much. When he said and did nothing, she opened her eyes again. “Why did she discuss me with you?”

“Who else was there to speak to? Your father and aunt, although worthy people, wouldn't have understood. They already found her far too strange.”

This was true—but it was because Mama’s mind was unbalanced.

“She knew I cared for you,” Fen said.

His eyes were kind but dispassionate; his use of the past tense meant that he didn't care anymore, except perhaps as an old friend. Why couldn't she become accustomed? Every single reminder hurt.

“You believed in them at the time your mother died,” he said. “She gave you that heart-shaped locket, didn't she?” It still hung at her breast, but she resisted the urge to clasp it in her hand.

“I was nine years old. I believed in many foolish things then,” she retorted. Such as magic, but a household run by her aunt was no longer vibrant with promise or belief in anything much at all. And then, when she was seventeen, Fen had destroyed what little belief remained. She didn't try to keep the bitterness from her voice. “I learned soon enough what utter nonsense it all was.”

He watched her, head cocked to one side, as if she were some strange, incomprehensible creature. “As a matter of interest, when did you stop believing?”

How dare he ask such a personal question? “What business is that of yours?”

“None, I suppose.” He shrugged and stood. “Stay away from the windows. I’ll see if my valet has found you something to wear.” He took the last of the beignets, set it on a saucer, and left it on the floor by the wall.

As if prying into her business wasn't enough, now he was mocking her. Did he seriously expect her to believe that a hobgoblin would eat the beignet? Anger stirred and grew within her. “If you must know, it was at the same time I gave up other foolishness, such as believing in love!”

Fen stared at her, his expression incredulous. He left the room, slamming the door behind him. By what right was he upset? Not content with playing stupid games with her, did he really not remember what he’d done to her five years ago?



Paperback


Barbara Monajem grew up in western Canada. She wrote her first story, a fantasy about apple tree gnomes, when she was eight years old, and dabbled in neighborhood musicals at the age of ten. At twelve, she spent a year in Oxford, England, soaking up culture and history, grubbing around at an archaeological dig, playing twosy-ball against the school wall, and spending her pocket money on adventure novels. Thanks to her mother, she became addicted to Regency romances as well. She is the award-winning author of several Regency novellas, many of which include elements of magic, and the Bayou Gavotte series of paranormal mysteries. Apart from writing, she loves to cook (especially soups), and the only item on her bucket list is to be successful at knitting socks (which she doesn't expect to achieve). She lives near Atlanta, Georgia, with an ever-shifting population of relatives, friends, and feline strays.




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Fluency by Jennifer Foehner Wells. "With her first novel, Jennifer Wells adds a fresh voice to the sci-fi genre and distinguishes herself as an author to watch."

Publisher: Blue Bedlam Science Fiction (June 18, 2014)
ISBN: 978-0990479826
Category: Science Fiction: Space Opera, First Contact, Action-Adventure, Alien, Romance
Tour Date: March 2-April 30, 2015 
Available in: Print & ebook, 373 Pages

About the book
NASA discovered the alien ship lurking in the asteroid belt in the 1960s. They kept the Target under intense surveillance for decades, letting the public believe they were exploring the solar system, while they worked feverishly to refine the technology needed to reach it. The ship itself remained silent, drifting. Dr. Jane Holloway is content documenting nearly-extinct languages and had never contemplated becoming an astronaut. But when NASA recruits her to join a team of military scientists for an expedition to the Target, it’s an adventure she can’t refuse. The ship isn’t vacant, as they presumed. A disembodied voice rumbles inside Jane’s head, "You are home." Jane fights the growing doubts of her colleagues as she attempts to decipher what the alien wants from her. As the derelict ship devolves into chaos and the crew gets cut off from their escape route, Jane must decide if she can trust the alien’s help to survive.
Praise for 'Fluency':"Author Jennifer Wells' writing genius comes from her vast knowledge of the highly technical subject matter and her ability to put the reader in the middle of it without losing him/her in technical jargon while creating characters that seem completely natural and believable."- Jean Fisher for Independent Publisher News

"With her first novel, Jennifer Wells adds a fresh voice to the sci-fi genre and distinguishes herself as an author to watch." -Theresa Kay, author of Broken Skies

"One of the runaway sci-fi hits on Amazon this year has been Jennifer Foehner Wells’ space thriller Fluency and quite frankly it’s a welcome addition to the genre. Fluency moves at a breakneck pace in a very cinematic fashion, the narrative mostly linear with some minor flashbacks to fill in gaps in the back story. Wells does a fine job of dealing with the technical side of proceedings without resorting to complicated jargon (I know I know, some geeks love the jargon but not this one!) The human technology is believable and the alien technology while advanced, is also impressively practical. While the strong female character has become a bit of a cliché in sci-fi over the past few years, it’s worth noting that many of these female characters have been written by men. What makes Fluency so refreshing is that Holloway’s character develops in a much more believable fashion given her circumstances. Sure she has to eventually toughen up and fight, but she’s much more than that. She’s a brilliant mind faced with a life-changing event and not just her life but the entire planet’s and her decisions will have monumental consequences. Her ability to focus is paramount and though it may seem she is being manipulated at times, she quickly takes control of her relationship with Ei’Brai. As the story reaches its gripping conclusion it also lays the groundwork for an exciting continuation of this rapidly unfolding saga. Littered with plenty of nods and winks to classic sci-fi and some clever pop culture references, Fluency is a thrilling, bumpy ride that rarely falters and firmly cements Jennifer Foehner Wells’ standing in the indie scene as an innovative and refreshing new voice in modern sci-fi."- Eamon Ambrose, Eamo The Geek

"A book that is just as appealing to women as it is to men. I’ll admit, I saw the beautiful cover and thought it was going to be old-school, hardcore sci-fi with lots of technobabble and women in service roles rather than command ones. By the time we got into space I was hooked, and only got more engrossed the further I went. There’s no flab in this book. It starts out strongly and each scene is carefully considered in how it develops the characters and advances the plot. The pitch rises gradually until leveling off at the end, just as it should. The prose is straightforward and lets the reading just flow. Dialogue made sense and there weren’t too many narrative sequences. Again, Jennifer Foehner Wells has taken care in crafting a balance of elements. This is a pretty special book. It’s a modern take on sci-fi, and has a lot to offer. There’s a light romantic subplot, a first-contact scenario, and a high-stakes situation that seems unclear, then clear, then unclear again. This story isn’t predictable and it doesn’t rely on any timeworn tropes. Fluency is something new in fiction, and that always excites the hell out of me."-Zen, Women of Badassery

  About Jennifer Foehner Wells:


Jennifer Foehner Wells lives an alternately chaotic and fairly bucolic existence in Indiana with two boisterous little boys, a supportive husband, a mildly unhinged Labrador retriever, and three adorable pet rats as housemates. Having studied biology, Jen's possessed with a keen interest in science and technology. She's 100% geek and proud of it. FLUENCY was Jen’s debut. It spent weeks in the Kindle Top 100, going as high as number 4. It remains prominent in several Science Fiction categories. It has garnered 848 five star reviews, to date.

Website: www.jenniferfoehnerwells.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jenthulhu
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JenniferFoehnerWells?ref=bookmarks
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/110012412930597513254/110012412930597513254/posts
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