A.R. Von's Blog, page 43

Review Her Wish, His Command by Malia Mallory

"Her Wish, His Command"
Author: Malia MAllory
Genre: Erotic Romance
Pages: 111
Source: Author in exchange for a honest review.
Published: June 3, 2013
Author's Website

Buy Links: Amazon

Goodreads Blurb:
Doctor Anna Foster may just get what she wants: sexy fellow researcher Jonah Granger. She's been in love with him for years, but Jonah has always been more interested in work at his family's business, Granger Pharma, than romance. Now that they've admitted their attraction, Anna may even be able to tell him what she really wants: to submit to him.

But Granger Pharma faces a hostile takeover. Sensitive data and samples are missing from Anna and Jonah's lab; it may be corporate espionage. Everyone is under suspicion and, and they're even beginning to question each other. Anna must discover the truth if she's going to save both her job and her relationship with the man she dreams of serving.
My Review:
Though it’s not the direction I thought Malia was going to go, I have to say Her Wish, His Command my favorite of the series so far! It’s sensual, exciting, mysterious and an all-around engrossing story that any fans of the genre will enjoy! It’s also written in a way it can be read as a stand-alone. But I recommend reading the others of the series because they are all enjoyable :)

Anna is a research scientist for a major company. She’s beautiful, smart and knows EXACTLY what she wants and needs in a relationship. She is also not afraid to admit it to her partner (much respect to you Anna!) Now if she can only find the right partner she’d be all set!Jonah is 110% into his work. He lives it, breaths it and loves it! He’s not been able to hold onto a relationship for long, ever. But when him and Anna get together everything changes and he actually loves it (love this guy)!
I love the build and the overall chemistry between these two. I cannot wait for the next in the series! I hope Malia writes quickly (hint hint).



Overall Rating 4.5


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Untameable Heat Tour #UntameHt

 **Kaden’s Reprieve Blurb**Tanya has been running for her life for two years, but when Ms. Lillian, owner of the exclusive “Heaven’s Touch” match making service, graciously gives her a week’s stay at her private bed and breakfast in St. Augustine, FL, she seizes the opportunity to escape to a possible hideaway.Kaden is of a rare and precious race prized for extraordinary abilities. He is also half-demon, remanded to Kushiel’s custody centuries ago. Allowed to leave Hell twice a year, three days each time – Beltane, and Samhain, his life thus far has been filled with slavery, torture, and despair, and he is nearly convinced that his soul is beyond redemption. Still, he longs for freedom. Can Tanya redeem him? Can Kaden dare hope for a reprieve?
“Untameable Heat” FB event          “Untameable Heat” Rafflecopter

Dariel Raye: Amazon author page      Goodreads     Follow WP site      Comment on blog      

Review Orion Rising (Dark Horizon #1) By Kris Norris

"Orion Rising"
Author: Kris Norris
Genre: Sci-fi Romance
Pages: 166
Source: Author in exchange for a honest review.
Published: February 13, 2013
Author's Website

Buy Links: Amazon

Goodreads Blurb:
Captain Kell Halloway thought his days of fighting the good fight were over. After years of following orders in what he thought was the name of peace, he’s broken all ties with the Coalition and is determined to make amends for his mistakes. Captain and sole member of the Orion, he’s living a life of existence, running supplies and cargo across the heavens, hoping to find some shred of redemption. That is until he discovers a stowaway…one that turns his world upside down.

Sage didn’t plan to sneak aboard a ship, but an untimely insurrection forces her into action and into Kell’s arms. A stolen kiss turns out to be more than she bargained for, and she’s left facing a new problem—one much more dangerous than the squadron of soldiers still hunting her.

But the clock is ticking. She has only one chance to free a colony under an unjust rule, and only one man to turn to for help.
My Review:
I've always LOVED sci-fi (shhh, don't tell anyone. I have a rep to uphold here!) Add on an erotic edge, excitement and some great humor. I'm hooked! A great read for any fans of the genre looking for a great escape into a great read :)
Sage is a rarity, smart, beautiful and strong. Not just your average strong either. She’s kick many asses at once without blinking type strong. She’s in an odd predicament and finds herself in another one just to avoid getting caught. But her second predicament leads her to many great things. One of them being saved by a faith she has not rightly earned.

Kell is an incredible man with an enormous heart and a yearning for redemption. He pilots his ship alone. Helping others by bringing them supplies. One day during a pick-up he sees a woman in duress. What’s a man to do but offer his assistance. Little did he know what his helping them female would bring about both within him and in his life.

An excellent start to a new series. One that has left craving much more. Cannot wait to get my greedy eyes on book 2!



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Review Wolf Fever (Alpha Project #1) by Milly Taiden

"Wolf Fever"
Author: Milly Taiden
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Pages: 230
Source: Author in exchange for a honest review.
Published: June 19, 2013
Author's Website

Buy Links: Amazon

Goodreads Blurb:
Changes she can't understand…
When Raine Bowe volunteers for a sleep study for the extra cash, she didn't expect to wake in a lab or to be victimized by a mad scientist. She escapes with one objective--to find someone strong enough to wage war with the evil growing inside her.

A job he won't accept…
Ryder Storm is a man with a reputation--the bad boy of his own universe. He doesn't take prisoners, won't give into a sweet smile, and doesn't cut his pack an inch of slack. He knows the desperate woman in his bar is his the moment he lays eyes on her. He'll give her anything she wants, except the one thing she's begging for. Death.

Passion neither can fight…
Raine enlists Ryder’s help to unravel the mystery surrounding the hours she lost in the lab and to help tame the beast inside her. In their search for answers, the road will lead them to a twisted experiment involving shifters, humans, and the creation of the ultimate Alpha. He's ready for the adventure and she's ready for her answers. Neither are ready for the lust that calls down from the mating moon. But a wolf knows its mate, and an alpha will not stop until he or she gets what they want..

My Review:
Wolf Fever is a fun, exciting and sexy read that any fans of the genre will enjoy an escape with.

Raine made a decision, not a horrible one, but she had to make a choice in order to help make ends meet. Before she knows it she awakens in a strange place and with even stranger things happening around her and to her!

Ryder is an alpha male that craves his one and only. When a female comes into his bar asking for his help. Her eyes only on his… Let’s just say there are some awesome fireworks :)
A good start to a new series that I will be sure to follow (love smexy shifters). I think I have an idea which way the author is going to with the next of the series. But I’ll have to wait and see. Looking forward to it!





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Milly Taiden's Wolf Fever Blog Tour

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Make sure to scroll down and enter the giveaway!

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Wolf Fever
Blurb
When Raine Bowe volunteers for a sleep study for the extra cash, she didn't expect to wake in a lab or to be victimized by a mad scientist. She escapes with one objective--to find someone strong enough to wage war with the evil growing inside her. 
[image error] Ryder Storm is a man with a reputation--the bad boy of his own universe. He doesn't take prisoners, won't give into a sweet smile, and doesn't cut his pack an inch of slack. He knows the desperate woman in his bar is his the moment he lays eyes on her. He'll give her anything she wants, except the one thing she's begging for. Death.
[image error] Raine enlists Ryder’s help to unravel the mystery surrounding the hours she lost in the lab and to help tame the beast inside her. In their search for answers, the road will lead them to a twisted experiment involving shifters, humans, and the creation of the ultimate Alpha. He's ready for the adventure and she's ready for her answers. Neither are ready for the lust that calls down from the mating moon. But a wolf knows its mate, and an alpha will not stop until he or she gets what they want.

Wolf Fever Trailer


ExcerptRun!The loud hammering of Raine’s heart drowned out the single word bouncing around her mind—and the dogs barking at her back. Their angry growls faded the faster she ran. A little further. Just a little more, and she’d be home free.Trees swooshed past her with every step she took away from the small isolated facility. She ignored the hospital gown swinging against her legs and the blood dripping down her arms from the torn IVs. Barefoot, the rocks bit into the soles of her feet. None of that mattered. She had to survive. Her life depended on getting as far away from that place as possible.Inhaling the comforting scent of mud, trees, and the wild, she barely heard the barking over the breeze rustling through the willows with each step she put between them. At any other time, she’d have dissected her reaction to the forest. Not now. And she didn’t stop. No way was she getting captured again without a fight.Air beat in and out of her lungs in tandem with the pounding of her feet on the rocky ground. Moonlight filtered through the branches overhead, highlighting her path. Her hair caught on the tree limbs, snatching at the loose strands. Some of the hanging vines prodded her arms and stabbed her sides. Her breath hitched, and she missed a step, lurching forward. Something inside her tightened. Her arms swayed and her core muscles flexed. Before she face planted, everything balanced out. She blinked. More scared now than she’d ever been in her life. Something controlled her body and it had reflexes far superior to a normal human.Moisture gathered in her eyes, blurring her vision. She blinked it away. Panic would only get her caught.Raine glanced at the moon. It had shifted twice—now in front of her, rather than behind. She stilled. The trees rustled with the wind. An owl hooted. But she still didn’t hear the annoying bay of the dogs.Ragged breaths beat hard in her ears. A horn’s blare sounded in the distance. Fear and excitement gave her a burst of energy. Cars meant help. She urged her body faster.Street lights peeked through the trees. Air panted out of her chest. A second car honked, speeding past another. She was almost there. So close. Thank god. She was going to make it.Slowing down at the edge of a hill, she darted glances around the now quiet street. No people milled about or walked around. Nothing. A big store, one she recognized from the one time she’d gotten lost in the shadier side of town, sat a block to her right. The sudden quiet made sense now. Nothing good happened this far south of Tempting Eats. It was known as the dead side. The thought alone gave her chills. Women went missing…all the time. That had been enough to keep her uptown in suburbia-peace-nation.She glanced around, searching for anyone who might be waiting for her or even any of the dangerous men her neighbors said roamed the streets, but there was nothing, not a single being. Her feet hit the pavement in a rush. Once across the street, she hid inside a dark alley. The stench of rotting food and piss coated the air with a thick blanket of disease and chaos. Her throat convulsed, and the acidic taste of bile hit the back of her tongue.Retreating, she took several steps toward the end of the street to a small motel. Its yellow, neon Vacancy sign blinked on and off with a buzz. A man’s yell pushed her to slink into the dark. The sound came from the shadows in front of the motel.
Buy Links
Amazon: http://amzn.to/11qnss7

ARe: http://bit.ly/10BTK55

B&N: http://bit.ly/19mU4VF



[image error] Author Bio:
Want to know about me? Milly Taiden (aka April Angel) was born in the prettiest part of the Caribbean known as the Dominican Republic. She grew up between New York, Florida and Massachusetts. Currently, she resides in New York City with her husband, bossy young son and their little dog Speedy.
She’s addicted to shopping for shoes, chocolate (but who isn’t?) and Dunkin Donuts coffee.

Contact Milly
Website:  http://www.millytaiden.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/fansofmillytaidenaprilangel
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/millytaiden

Books: As Milly Taiden Wolf Protector – Federal Paranormal Unit – Book 1Wynter’s CaptiveHalloween Heat III – Mate EventFate’s WishSharp Change – Black Meadow – Book 1Caged Heat – Black Meadow – Book 2
Coming SoonWolf FeverScent of a Mate
As April Angel A Hero’s Pride Party CrasherWicked Valentine – Sizzling Encounters – Book 2Stranded TemptationMr. Buff – Sizzling Encounters – Book 1
Coming SoonLucky Break – Sizzling Encounters – Book 3
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#WedBriefs Flash Fiction Lady #8

Hello everyone and welcome to Wednesday Briefs Flash Fiction. As always, I was given many options to inspire this weeks brief. I chose to go with the two photos below and the two word prompts "If wishes were fishes..." & "where angels fear to tread..." for this week.

For those of you that have not read the prior week's portions and would like to. Click HERE to access them all.
I hope you enjoy & thank you for reading!

Each and every man that is with Than is doing something to destroy all the beauty and life that surrounds them. Injecting concoctions into the rarest of beasts, paralyzing them and then spelling them to some unknown place. Unicorns, lion men, phoenix’s, griffins, creatures of the waters along with all other protectors of the forest and their kin. Even the smallest creatures are being hunted down and either killed or imprisoned. It’s all hurting my head. All of these dreadful images and the pain I feel. It’s as if I am the one being attacked. I just want to scream at them all, stop them from hurting all of these innocents but I cannot bring myself to move, to take a proper breath. So much pain and suffering.Suddenly, the images come to a slow down and I see the dark haired child again. The child is older now, but not by much. He is speaking to my dream self. Somehow, I know that she is me. I hear him clearly as if he is right beside me, speaking softly into my ear. “If wishes were fishes then fishes would be wishes and we’d all be granted at least one.” My human self-smiles softly and kisses him on the cheek. They then both turn to the approaching form and I see my grip on the boy tighten as the form grows closer.I then see my dream self relax and the boy jumps out of my arms and runs to Dezso. “Papa” he calls with such happiness and jumps straight into his arms. The female with them stands tall and I see she has a swollen middle. That’s me, I am having another child and by the looks of it very soon. Dezso walks towards me with the male child, holding him tight and giggling. He places the child down and pulls me to him. Burying his face in-my hair. Inhaling deeply and searching for my lips with his own for a kiss. He pulls back, both of his hands cupping my human face and presses his forehead to my human form and whispers, “My love I’ve missed you dearly.”“It’s only been a couple of hours Dezso. Don’t be silly.” Are the words the come out of my mouth with an enormous smile just for him.“Come now Crisol. It is time to give your mama a break and meet with the others for your lessons.”“Alright papa. Love you both with all of me.” The boy gives both a brief hug then runs toward other youngsters his age all settling in front of a wizen old woman that is sitting upon a stool waiting for the children to settle down before her.Dezso takes my human hands and directs me to a path. The scene flashes forward to Dezso and I undressing one another in what I assume is our home. He is licking a path from my collar bone to my lobe. Nibbling and humming in appreciation as I rub his arousal with my hand and give a squeeze. Quick as a flash, he spins me and commands I kneel upon the bed. Of course I do as he asks. But with a little difficulty due to the protruding of my stomach. He runs his hands gently up and down my back and stops when he gets to my hip area. “I’m going to have you now Iria. I’ve seen this in my mind’s eye every minute I’ve been away from you. I’m going to take you now!”“Yes!”He thrusts forward and enters me in one stroke. The fit is so perfect; he is the key to my lock. Meant to be and so complete. I’m wondering if I am supposed to be feeling all of this as I am seeing it as if it is happening now and not then. “I’ll not last long this time and for that I am sorry. I promise to make it up to you.”“Yes, just please don’t stop.”The scene changes once more to complete darkness. I wait for something to happen. It does not take very long. A flash of light comes from my right and all I see is dirt. No plant or animal life whatsoever. I look up to the sky and again see nothing. No moon, no stars. I try to concentrate and focus my ears for the sound of water, people, anything and again…I find nothing.Another flash brings my attention back to my right. I now can see Dezso, Than and myself in what looks to be a battle. Magic is being tossed back and forth between Dezso and Than. My human self is standing there chanting, while staring straight at Dezso. It looks as if I am lending him power. Abruptly, a brighter flash comes my way of my human self and then, all goes dark again. I feel as if my skin is being removed from my flesh as the peel of a yellow banana fruit. Am I dead? Maybe dying? I feel deep fear for what has just happened. It cannot be real—or can it?I open my eyes to see Tethys looking at me, her tentacles moving as if agitated, waiting for my reaction. I cannot speak. I do not know what to say. She seems to understand this and speaks her own mind, “Iria, you must make the choice, sacrifice yourself and you will get your wish. The goddess says only you can stop the evil that is upon us, stop it from killing all in its path. You with your pure heart and love for Dezso will save our world and bring it peace. You have seen pieces of possible outcomes with your choices made. Now all you need to do is actually make your choice. Will you choose to refuse your heart’s desire and have our world turn to a place where angels fear to tread or will you follow your heart and allow our world to continue to be the glorious place it is?”





Come back next week for Lady #9...



(This story continues to be dedicated to my one and only sister, my Pookie. Her love of unicorns from when we were tots is what inspired me to write it. Love you my sissy!)


Be sure to visit the other Wednesday Briefs:
A.R. Von Elyzabeth VaLey      Tali Spencer   Nephylim    MA Church  Andrew Gordon Victoria Adams   Julie Lynn Hayes

The Vikings are back in Week 13/Chapter 13 of Silver and Spice by Maria MacAuley!

Hello friends/followers! Welcome to week 13/chapter 13 of  Maria MacAuley's Silver & Spice. Now we present to you another portion of a very exciting, romantic and all-around great story.  We will be posting a chapter for you to enjoy each week until the story's end. We are looking forward to comments, feelings, thoughts, etc. of what you think for each portion posted. So please be sure to leave a comment in the comments section :)

Now I present to you... Silver and Spice!

View Prologue and chapter 1 HERE, chapter 2 HERE,  chapter 3 HERE,  chapter 4 HERE, chapter 5 HERE, chapter 6 HERE, chapter 7 HERE, chapter 8 HERE, chapter 9 HERE, chapter 10 HERE, chapter 11 HERE, chapter 12 HERE

Chapter 13
Roisin woke up to a sweet nuzzling on her neck and a warm hand kneading softly on her breast. She found the touch of Kristr’s mouth and hands exquisite, as her caressed her from sleep.  Yesterday, his touch was a salve.  Today, rather than healing, the sensation of his hands upon her skin was creating an intense want within her very being. Squirming and giggling, she wriggled from below him, 'Kristr, stop it! You are making a wanton out of me!''Good.' He arched an eyebrow, 'that makes two of us. You are my every wanton breath, and I need sustenance.' She playfully slapped his hand away and threw back the bedfurs.  She picked up her underdress and slipped it over her head. 'I have to earn my keep on the steading now. Let me prepare some food for our dagmal.'Kristr growled in amusement at her use of the Norse word for the morning meal, 'That is not the sustenance I want, and you know it. I told my brother you would be speaking like us before long. And attractive as you are when you speak Gaelic, I can barely contain my Viking bloodlust when you speak in Norse.' He gave a long low rumble as he lunged for her.She squealed in delight as she tried to duck his grasp, but it was pointless as he held her firmly, biting gently on her neck as she tried to twist her head, her body held motionless against his.  'Well, do you yield to this Viking, my wanton Irish princess?' he murmured, continuing to kiss her neck, nipping sweetly at her jawline, pulling her back onto the bed.'Ja,' she moaned. She felt his shaft grow hard against her hip as he pressed his weight upon her, making her all too aware of the growing heat within her core, and her desires of her body overran the established rational thoughts of her mind. 'Kristr! Nei! I do not yield.'He stopped instantly, and seizing her chance, she rolled from under him, pushed him on to his back, and sitting astride him, she watched as his silver eyes grew as wide as Danish coin. She raised her body so that she could take his length, his hands cupping and caressing her smooth hips, supporting her as she adjusted to the new sensations, filling her, impaling her. Slowly finding her rhythm, her movements, careful and measured soon became more urgent as she felt she felt the now delicious tension grow within. As she watched the expression on her Kristr's face move from lust to longing, with a final shudder, she threw her head back cried out in ecstasy as the spasms of her womb brought her lover to his own release.  Roisin sighed as she curled up into Kristr’s arms.  The dagmal could wait.
****
'Kristr!' Kerik's familiar loud voice echoed down the hall. 'Are you awake?''If I was not awake before now, you have made it so, Fadir,' Kristr yelled back. Roisin hid under the furs in embarrassment, only recognising a word or two. She felt his light kiss on her forehead, as he tucked the fur in around her naked body with a smile. Leaping up to pull on his breeches and tunic, 'Wait there so that I may save my woman's blushes.''It is as well she does she not understand all your words yet, Kristr Silver-Tongue! Come, you and I need to take part in a family Allthing.'As Kristr wrapped the leather laces around his leggings, sitting on the bed he said, 'my father wants to speak with me in an Allthing.'Confused, Roisin asked ‘What is that?’'Normally it is an event whereby men and women can come together to discuss their issues and air their grievances, although in this case it will be just between him and I. Father to son, not Jarl to free man.’Roisin swallowed.  ‘Will you have to discuss whatever news Johan brought with his arrival?’  When the boat had been sighted in the fjord, Roisin was sure that it was someone coming for her, and was relieved when it was not MacRonan.  However, now that Kristr was summoned to talk to his father, she was concerned once more for her fate, and that of Catherine.He pulled her braid from below her back and curled it over her shoulder, draping it over her breast. Dropping a kiss on her forehead, and then on her lips, 'I shall see you soon, Sweetling.' 
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Stepping out into the bright sunny day from the dim light of the hall, he saw his father standing with Erik and Johan. Taking his leave from them, he called to Kristr, handed him a sack.  Kristr opened the sack.  His father must have assumed he had not eaten as it contained  bread, cheese and a lump of ham. Kerik started walking along the path to the high-point overlooking the farmstead and the fjord.. 'Come, son.'The dew on the long grass was felt cold and damp against the wool of his leggings, as he walked in silence behind his father. When they came to the high-point, overlooking the icy blue waters of the fjord, empty and still, Kerik motioned for his son to sit on the flat rocks, facing out onto the limitless horizon beyond the sheer mountains. Kristr thought of the journeys he had made, leaving Halsrafjord, and the joy he felt on returning home. He may be a wealthy man, but on the steading, Kerik was Jarl, and disobeying his sire was not countenanced. The gentle distant lowing of cattle and calls of the seagulls was finally broken by Kerik's voice, softer than usual.'Son. I need the truth. Why should Alfhilde create an allegiance with MacRonan, the son of a murderer?''Why should you call MacRonan the son of a murderer?' Kristr countered.Kerik's features darkened, his tone more firm. 'I am Jarl, I am responsible for this steading and you will answer to me, not question me.'Kristr picked up a twig and idly poked it in the soft damp earth. 'Ja, Fadir. I understand.' He took a deep breath. How could he explain to his father about his time in fosterage in Shetland? Under Viking law a boy became a man at twelve summers, but it was only when his time was over with Alfhilde that he was on his way truly to becoming a man. Throughout their world it was known that she had the ability to harness the skills, potential and ability of each boy and develop them into strong, independent men. Masters of their worlds.He looked up at his father, a small recalcitrant child again, answering to his sire. Kerik's arms folded, his face expectant. 'Alfhilde was an excellent educator. She taught me to recite the old Norse sagas of Odin and Thor, of the creation of our world, Asgard. I also learned of the Greeks and the Romans, and through her slaves, the languages that I needed to make my way in the known world outside our noble Viking lands.'Kerik nodded. His wife's sister had made a fine merchant and negotiator out of the sorrowful young boy he had left there all those seasons ago.'However, she believed in very strict discipline, inside her hall and,' Kristr paused. This was difficult. '...and inside her bed chamber.'The older man uncrossed his arms, and leant into his son, holding his shoulders. 'Her bed chamber?' Kristr swallowed and nodded. 'Continue.''A number of boys were favoured by Alfhilde. We were taken to her chamber where she, ah, educated us on the methods of love play. If we did not meet her standards, the discipline used within the hall became more severe.’  He did not want to tell his father the details of how Alfhilde denied them food for forgetting lines of the sagas, or beat them if they could not converse freely in another language. The desire to please their teacher in lessons became wrapped up in the desire to please her in bed, even if they felt no love for her.Kerik was barely able to contain his fury, but had to, for his son's sake. He shook Kristr's shoulders. 'And why did you not think to tell me of these actions? I am your father and your Jarl!' Gertrude should have told him of Alfhilde's tastes in young boys. They were sisters. She must have known.He looked his father in the eye. There was no holding back the secrets of his life as a young man now. 'At first I was ashamed. I believed I deserved the punishment for not saving my mother.  I wanted to make Aisling proud of me as she watched me from...’ he stammered and choked on the word ‘... Heaven.  Her ... Heaven.’Kerik looked at his son with a mixture of pity and horror. 'Fadir, you asked the question, let me continue. 'The relationship changed. As Alfhilde made me the master of my world on the seas and in the trading markets, I became the master of the bed-chamber.'  Kristr allowed his mind to flip through the many women he had bedded over the seas.  Every time he stopped at the Jarlshof he could not resist lying with Alfhilde, relishing the experiences that he brought back to explore with her.  He was the teacher now. Kerik's voice was hoarse, his mind racing as her tried to listen to his son. The healthy strapping red-headed boy Aisling had borne into the world, that he was proud to claim. The terrified child who saw his mother killed outside Dubh Linn. The grieving lad who was sent far across the sea to become a man. He stood, pulling his hands through his brown curls, pacing, trying to drag air into his lungs. 'And when did this end?''When I rejected her love play for Roisin.' This tryst had continued until a fortnight ago.Kristr watched in shame as his father howled in rage and spewed the contents of his daymal from his stomach. 'My son! I failed you.' He spat the remaining vomit onto the heather, the sour-smelling lumps ugly on the fresh growth of plant.'Nei, Fadir, you did not fail me.' He could not blame his sire. When he was a confused young boy he thought it was part of his education.  Sex was nothing to be ashamed of in Viking society.  He could not tell his father how much he had enjoyed the bedsport with Alfhilde as a man; that was until Roisin came into his life.'Alfhilde failed me. She failed me as my teacher and mentor when she joined forces with MacRonan.' He could not see how they were connected to each other and asked his father where his thoughts on the matter lay. Regaining his composure, Kerik stood up and wiped his mouth, his loud voice still shaken, 'I need to tell you of MacRonan, and it is not a pleasant tale. Some parts will be familiar to you, others will not.'Kerik proceeded to confess to his son all that he knew of Aisling's history, how he when he had first laid eyes on her, in his bloodlust he wanted to take her for a bed thrall, enticed by her small frame and beautiful hair. That was until he saw the bruises on her arms and the pain in her eyes. She had not fought him, when he scooped her into his arms, taking her chances with a Viking raider than stay with her lawful husband. With Kerik's careful attention and Gertrude's sisterly love, Aisling settled into the way of the steading.This was not new to Kristr, but as Kerik unfolded the rest of the story to him, so much more became clear. Aisling had told Kerik of the loss of her first born son, Sean, who was drowned on the way to Anglesey with his father. Determined that she bear him another son, she was subjected to her vicious husband's nightly assaults until that day that Kerik had found her hiding behind the church. Kerik also had his doubts on the accidental drowning, but as a Christian, Aisling wanted no more loss of life. He could not understand her God and their faith of turning the other cheek.  Retribution would have been the first thing on his mind, but he promised Aisling he would not seek revenge for her injuries.'I broke my vow to Aisling when I killed her husband. I knew it was Peter MacRonan that killed her on that ridiculous Christian pilgrimage. When you regained consciousness and told me that your mother had told you to hide, and you described the figure that you had seen, I realised the truth.  He had known she was back in the country and the only people that were attacked were Aisling and yourself.Kristr paled. 'I did not know the name of her Christian husband.' 'Nei, she never told you. She loved you so much, and she was overjoyed to be a mother again. After her death, I sought information on MacRonan. During that time, I found out her son was still alive, but Hyde had cast him in his own image, and told him his mother had abandoned him. His looks favoured the father, but you have the colouring of your mother.' Kerik had found out that MacRonan's mind had been so corrupted by his father, not even Johan Flynn would be able to uncover the truth.Kristr's shoulders slumped, as he pulled his own hands through his hair, he suddenly recognised the family trait between himself and Kerik.'MacRonan is my brother.' The thieving, greedy avaricious waste of a sire's seed shared his own flesh and blood.Kerik rubbed his son's shoulder, the only affection he could manage or Kristr could tolerate after their conversation. 'From what Johan has found out from MacRonan, he has not made the connection.''Under Norse law I cannot kill him yet. I shall have to challenge him to a Holmsgang, a duel.' Kristr could not abandon his Norse sense of honour now. 'And then I will kill him. For my mother. For Roisin.''Come, son. It is time to join your true brothers.' Kerik extended his hand as Kristr accepted and pulled himself up. Clasping hands, the bond between father and son may have been bruised, but strengthened, not broken.****** [image error]
Having composed himself on the walk back, he stopped for with Erik and Johan in the fields, whilst Kerik headed back to the blacksmith's hut. Everyone on the steading had to work, and Kerik did not become a strong respected leader by sitting on the dais, ordering people from afar. Taking a long drink from the water skin he smacked his lips, watching the expectant look on the faces of the other men.'I told him,' he confessed. His brother’s sigh of relief was evident. Erik always had his doubts about Alfhilde's intentions towards Kristr; a young skinny boy on the verge of manhood should not have been attractive to an experienced woman such as she. Although Johan had experienced the harsh discipline of the hall, he was not favoured sexually by Alfhilde, through their friendship as foster brothers, Johan had known of the night-time activities of Alfhilde and her favoured fosterlings.Kristr caught the expectant look of Johan. They had been friends and brothers in arms for too long, and Johan would know there was more information to come. 'Kristr, what else do you have to say?'Kristr gave a hollow laugh. 'You always had the gift of second sight, Johan.' He pulled his hands through his hair and gave a long low sigh, expelling every breath of air from his lungs, before taking a deep breath and recounting the whole ugly saga to the pair.'As you know from yesterday, Fadir has given me permission to take Roisin to see her kin, but she must return with me. Now that I know more of MacRonan, I cannot, I will not, let him take her from me.' Erik murmured in approval. To see his brother finally feel love for a woman, not just lust for a bed partner displayed the inner emotions he had kept controlled for so long. Erik loved women, but until the first time he had held Ciara in his arms, and offered her a drink from his wineskin, he did not know he could fall in love.
******
Kristr found Roisin in the main hall at the loom, demonstrating to Gertrude and some of the other women her methods of weaving fine linen cloth. She had not lied about her skill, pride in her work evident on her face as she worked the large broadcloth loom. The language may have been halting, but was no barrier to learning; the women clucking appreciatively, watching Roisin's deft movements as her fingers handled and slipped elegantly over the shuttle as it flew through the weft threats displayed her expertise. He wished his cock were that shuttle, wrapped in those skillful hands. Shaking his head from his daydream, he approached the group, engrossed in their observations.'Madir, may I take Roisin from her teaching? I think it is time for another lesson.' Gertrude smiled at him. He was not her child by blood, but she loved him as a son as much as Erik. And now both her boys were blessing her with daughters. Aisling would be proud of him. Gertrude still missed her after all these years; she had loved the flame haired Irish woman more than her own true-sister on Shetland.'Of course, son.' She gestured her thanks to Roisin, as she took her place at the loom, eager to apply what she had observed from the younger woman.Out in the clean morning air, Kristr turned to her, as he smoothed his hands over her plait. 'I have two gifts for you today, and a lesson.' Her eyes lit up in as he handed her a small dagger. He really was going to teach her to defend herself. 'The blade is still blunt, in case you manage to cause me damage.' His eyes twinkled silver. She may be tiny and defenseless now, but under his tutelage she would learn to do damage on anyone who dared to touch her.'Tis beautiful.' She ran her fingers lightly over the patterned bronze handle, wrapped with a slim leather thong. 'And it is mine?''Ja, and when you are ready, we shall sharpen it, so that it matches your tongue!' He grinned at her snort of disapproval.He showed her how to hold the knife, to stab, to slice, to block. He explained its benefits in close combat. She would not be using it as an offensive weapon, he was teaching her to protect herself. They would practice every day until she felt confident, and then he would take her to the blacksmith and they would sharpen and polish the blade. She would no longer be helpless and whilst he loved the idea of protecting his Roisin, he delighted in the fact that she would also be her own woman. Determined. Skilled. Viking.'My second gift to you is not a weapon.' She looked at him quizzically, and unable to keep his news to himself any longer, 'my father has given me permission to take you to visit Dun na Shee and let your kin know that you are well.'She threw her arms around him 'What wonderful news! When can we sail?''Easy, sweetling. It will be another fortnight before the tides are favourable, but you must promise that you will return with me.' Breaking the embrace, she felt weak at the knees. Still a hostage. Still held for ransom. She knew what she wanted, and there had to be more to her life with Kristr. She wanted to be with him, to take wedding vows with him, she did not care if they were Christian or pagan. She would live anywhere with him; the cold north, the warm lands far to the south. When she saw her father and brother, it would be easy to sail back with him, but because it was by desire and love, not by obligation and law.'And if my father has garnered the silver, what do you expect from me?' She tried to hide the nervous tremble in her voice. Kristr pulled her back against his chest, not wanting to let her go now or ever. Her value to him was beyond all the silver, gold, garnets and jade in his possession. She should be his wife, not his hostage. Honour and ransom hung over his head like the heavy snow-filled clouds of winter. He took a deep breath, and hated the words he had to say.  'If Conall of Dun na Shee has the silver, then you will be released, and free to stay with him.' Kristr said a silent prayer to whatever god was listening that this was not the case.



Be sure to come back next week for chapter 14!

Thank you to:
The picture of the bed is Copyright ~Misty~ flickr.com from her ‘Viking Life’ set The picture of the boat is Copyright Jomme flickr.com from his ‘Norway 2008’ set
E. Paterson for the Viking painting






Bio
Maria MacAuley is from Derry, Ireland and has a degree in Celtic Languages. She is married to the love of her life, and they live in relative peace with two cats.

She has a secret wish that her husband will investigate his Nordic family tree further and whisk her off on a longboat to Hammerfest to view the Northern Lights.

If Maria were to choose her favorite tense, it should be the subjunctive, and is always keen to discuss same over a pint of Guinness.
email: banbha@hotmail.com




~*"No portion of this story may be copied or shared without the direct permission of the author."*~

Review Queens are Wild by Jack Chaucer

"Queens are Wild"
Author: Jack Chaucer
Genre: Sci-fi Thriller
Pages: 250
Source: Author in exchange for a honest review.
Published: July 17, 2012
Author's Website

Buy Links: Amazon

Goodreads Blurb:
.Margeaux Quigley has it all: the eyes of every guy in her senior class, a full scholarship to Stanford thanks to her soccer skills … and the seat as Commander in Chief of the United States in 2036?! Margeaux finds herself being dragged through a deadly chess game from 1984 to the future where her presidential self has been kidnapped by a tycoon who wants to rule the world. She must find a way to checkmate him.

My Review:
A very thrilling, chilling, unpredictable, exciting and original read by Jack Chaucer. Expect the unexpected with this one. It’s what you’re going to get and it’s AWESOME! Any fan of the genre or any readers out there looking for something new & different will enjoy their time spent with Queens are Wild!

Margeaux is a 17 years old female whose world gets turned upside down, inside out and sideways one day while in school. Finding herself in trouble for no other reason than being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Then having to attend the most unusual detention ever. She eventually finds herself in quite a few sticky situations. Oh and in a complete different time!

While this story does not contain any actual sexual acts. It does contain mature language and situations best suited for those over 17. All in all it’s a great story for a first put out there by Jack! I look forward to more from this author. I have a feeling he’s going to create some greats!



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Review Kingdom Series Collection 1 - 3 by Marie Hall

"Kingdom Series Collection 1 - 3"
Author: Marie Hall
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Pages: 183
Source: Author in exchange for a honest review.
Published: November 10, 2012
Author's Website

Buy Links: Amazon

Goodreads Blurb:
.THE FIRST THREE KINGDOM BOOKS, ALL TOGETHER IN ONE COLLECTION. INCLUDED DELETED BONUS SCENES AND ALICE HU'S RED QUEEN'S REVENGE CUPCAKE RECIPE!

Her Mad Hatter:

Alice is all grown up. Running the Mad Hatter's Cupcakery and Tea Shoppe is a delicious job, until fate--and a fairy godmother with a weakness for bad boys--throws her a curveball. Now, Alice is the newest resident of Wonderland, where the Mad Hatter fuels her fantasies and thrills her body with his dark touch.

The Mad Hatter may have a voice and a body made for sex, but he takes no lovers. Ever. But a determined fairy godmother has forced Alice into Wonderland--and his arms. Now, as desire and madness converge, the Hatter must decide if he will fight the fairy godmother's mating--or fight for Alice.

Gerard's Beauty:

A not so classic retelling of Beauty and the Beast, as seen through the eyes of the villain... Betty Hart has had it with men. Jilted in love, her life now consists of shelving books by day, watching too much Anime by night, and occasionally dressing up like a superhero on the weekends with her fellow ?Bleeding Heart? nerds. Men are not welcome and very much unwanted. Especially the sexy Frenchman who saunters into her library reeking of alcohol and looking like he went one too many rounds in the ring.

Gerard Caron is in trouble. Again. Caught with his pants down (literally) he?s forced to seek asylum on Earth while his fairy godmother tries to keep Prince Charming from going all ?Off with his head?. Maybe, messing around with the King?s daughter hadn?t been such a great idea after all, not that Gerard knew the silly redhead was a princess. But his fairy godmother knows the only way to save his life is to finally pair Gerard with his perfect mate, whether he?s willing or not.

From the moment Gerard lays eyes on the nerdy librarian he knows he must have her, but Betty is unlike any woman he?s ever known. He thought Betty would come as willingly to his bed as every other woman before her, but she is a woman who demands respect and even? horror of all horrors? love. Is it possible for a self-proclaimed Casanova to change his ways?

Red and Her Wolf:

Long ago there lived a beautiful child. Her name was Violet. Fair of skin, with blonde hair and large blue eyes. Born of wild magic, she was a woman with a child?s heart. Innocent and lovely, but not at all what she seemed--you see Violet went by another name: The Heartsong.
She was the child of fairy magic, the physical manifestation of all fae kinds unbridled power. Cosseted and pampered, she grew up in isolation, never knowing who she really was, or why there were those who?d seek to harm her.

Ewan of the Blackfoot Clan is a wolf with a problem. He?s been sent to kill the Heartsong, but the moment he lays eyes on the blonde beauty he knows he?ll defy the evil fae he works for to claim Violet as his own.

This is the tale of Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf, as it really happened...
My Review:
Her Mad Hatter is an adult, entertaining and very descriptive version of the childhood tale of Alice in Wonderland. It’s just as twisted and fun as the original story only with more twists, surprises and additions us adults can enjoy. I had a lot of fun reading this one. It was emotional, exciting, fun, funny, sensual and memorable. It’s definitely my favorite of the three stories.

With Gerard’s Beauty I was unsure which tale it belong with for a brief time (I guess I’m losing my touch). This story is very different from the Beauty and the Beast tale and not just the adult aspects alone. It held many magical elements but no talking candle sticks (bummer!) It’s another story that I got lost in with its mystery, humor and emotion.

Red and her Wolf is another spun twisted tale by Marie Hall. This one has way more emotion, details and addictive qualities than the original tale and (once again) it’s not just because it’s an adult version. No, it’s because it’s so wonderfully written you get caught up and trapped not wanting the story to end.

I cannot wait to read the rest of the collections!



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Review The Moon-Kissed Chi by Grinelda Markowitz

"The Moon-Kissed Chi"
Author: Grinelda Markowitz
Genre:  Erotic Sci-fi Romance
Pages: 92
Source: Author in exchange for a honest review.
Published: May 1, 2012
Author's Website

Buy Links: Amazon

Goodreads Blurb:
.As Gayadnae writhes in her sleep from the scrutiny of the Gaichi, Grayt, serving woman to Arrinay and companion to Bezhyanya, wards off Gaya’s nighttime visitor. Though her parents, the senior members of the ruling family, were blissfully unaware of the threat to Kalaydan already in motion. The day to come will dawn soon, bringing them concerns for the early maturation of their daughter.

Most parents take joy in their children as they travel the path to adulthood and arrive to take their places in society. For Arrinay and Bezhyanya, the realization of the nearness of the end of this journey for their daughter underscores their responsibilities to the people of Kalaydan. Her ability to take her place in their society as the young mistress is in peril. The potential for scandal and other complications is more than a reality, it could be the next guest to knock on the doors of the Main House.

Gayadnae, being herself, concocts a scheme to get around what she perceives to be the inevitable interruption to her freedom and personal interests. Grayt, the moving force behind the daily activities within the Main House, has a more dire agenda lurking in the background of her activities. Having brought Gayadnae to the fork-in-the-road she would have to meet at some point, she is able to thwart the soon-to-be young mistress’ attempt to avoid an inevitable responsibility. Gaya’s meeting with Muntaën is the turning point in the young woman’s life. Unknown to the couple, their union means the survival of the people of Kalaydan.

The elemental sexual chi energies, which drive the erotic and expressive society of Kalaydan, are far more complex than they seem on the surface. The abilities possessed by Grayt are more extensive than she reveals to the Kalaydans around her but they are known by those of her kind who are ever present yet not seen. Dark forces lurk on the periphery of Kalaydan, marking time before they can be made manifest.

Though Gayadnae sleeps soundly at night now, thanks to a timely gift from Muntaën, her Kallish-to-be, the strings that wed her to him (and him to her) are more profoundly significant than the symbolism of their bed-swearing to come.

A society, the product of its environment; disparate peoples whose futures are immutably entwined; events moving on course to collision; and, the outcome depends primarily on the decision a young woman makes with respect to her future. That’s The Moon-Kissed Chi in a nutshell.
My Review:
A very different, interesting and original world created by Grinelda Markowitz. Any reader looking for something they have NEVER laid their eyes on or fans of the genre will enjoy their time spent reading The Moon-Kissed Chi.

There were quite a few things going on in this story but my favorite is Gayadnae trying to escape her faith. She thinks she’s so very slick (he he). Well she has another thing coming. When something is meant to be there is just no stopping it! No matter how great of a plan one has...

I found it a bit hard to keep up with for some time. Confusing is more like it. But I did enjoy the creative world and humor within. I will definitely look into more of this authors work. While I felt the story could have flowed more smoothly. It was fun to read :)



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