C.D. Hersh's Blog, page 152
February 18, 2016
Friday Feature C.D. Hersh Turning Stone Chronicles
A visit with
C.D. Hersh
Authors of
The Turning Stone Chronicles
Yes, dear reader we’re going to do a little self promotion and sharing from behind the screen. The computer screen that is not the other, get your minds out of the gutter. So what shall we talk about?
How about why we write as co-authors?
The easy answer is that it is fun. The other answer is that we always have something to talk about. Now that doesn’t mean we don’t have anything other than our stories to talk about but when the mundane, everyday things become boring we can go off into our writing world and have fun. We are never going to be like those folks you see in restaurants who just sit there eating not saying a word to each other. We have romance and romantic settings to create and enjoy, mysteries to solve, and people to kill, on paper (LOL). Just hope the wrong people are not eavesdropping on our conversations.
In our Turning Stone Chronicles, we have a unique take on shape-shifters.
As we developed the concept we decided that we wanted something different than the normal were-shape shifters. In reality, we can thank Donald’s psychology courses for the idea of the various forms of shifting. One of the psyche theories is that we all have three parts to our psyche, commonly called id, ego and super-ego. We added a twist to that theory using male, female, and animal egos, and a magic ring that could tap the various forms. So our folks have various forms to take but, there are some consequences if you are doing evil.
In the first book of the series, THE PROMISED ONE, the partnership between Rhys and Alexi ha s been described as extremely powerful and that hits you immediately from the beginning of the book. So here is a brief excerpt that shows that partnership.
Tucking his gift under her arm, she started to leave.
“Hey.” He pointed at the other gifts. “Aren’t you going to add yours?”
“Nope. I’ll give it to you later, when we’re alone.”
“Ooh. Something special. Mineral or animal?” His right eyebrow raised, his smile growing.
Alexi laughed. “Just embarrassing.”
“For you or for me?”
“I’m not telling.”
Sidling close to her, he backed her against the wall. “Come on. Just a hint,” he said, a purr in his tone as he placed his hand on the wall next to her shoulder and moved into her personal space with the ease of a lover. One of his famous melt-the-girl looks smoldered in his gaze. The golden flecks in his green eyes lit up like fireworks. Hot fireworks.
Enjoying his closeness and the raw sensuality emanating from him, she lingered for a minute, then slowly moved away. Standing this close she could get burned, and she wasn’t ready to play with fire . . . not yet. She shook her head. “Not a chance.”
He crossed his arms, obviously irked that she hadn’t succumbed. “My irresistible charms work on everyone else. Why not you?”
Oh, if you only knew. She had to fight to resist him. She flashed him a smile. “Because I’m special. And I’m your partner. Keeping your back safe is more important than getting you on your back.”
He laughed, a deep, throaty, and utterly sexy sound.
She locked her knees to keep from melting into a puddle.
“I like the sound of that.”
Of course you would. She felt her face flame.
The series is a paranormal romance about folks who use magic to shape shift, and it is not the ordinary animal shape shifting. We think readers will be surprised. Amazon reviewers have called the story line “totally unique,” and “a book that keeps you turning the pages to the end.”
InDtale Magazine review said “The Promised One” takes paranormal and turns it on its ear, taking shape-shifting to a whole other level. The bad guy perspective is particularly unique and fun, and the characters three-dimensional. . .”
The series is to be six books with the first three already out on Amazon and the fourth due sometime this summer. Here is a little more about the series, each book and links to them.
TITLE: The Turning Stone Chronicles
GENRE: Urban fantasy, Paranormal, Romance
HEAT LEVEL: Sensual
BLURB:
Three ancient Celtic families. A magical Bloodstone that enables the wearers to shape shift. A charge to use the stone’s power to benefit mankind, and a battle, that is going on even today, to control the world. Can the Secret Society of shape shifters called the Turning Stone Society heal itself and bring peace to our world?
Find out in The Series The Turning Stone Chronicles
Book one of the chronicles titled “ The Promised One ” currently available on Amazon in eBook: http://amzn.com/B00DUMODKI and paperback: http://amzn.com/1619353504
In the wrong hands, the Turning Stone ring is a powerful weapon for evil. So, when homicide detective Alexi Jordan discovers her secret society mentor has been murdered and his magic ring stolen, she is forced to use her shape-shifting powers to catch the killer. By doing so, she risks the two most important things in her life—her badge and the man she loves.
Rhys Temple always knew his fiery cop partner and would-be-girlfriend, Alexi Jordan, had a few secrets. He considers that part of her charm. But when she changes into a man, he doesn’t find that as charming. He’ll keep her secret to keep her safe, but he’s not certain he can keep up a relationship—professional or personal.
Danny Shaw needs cash for the elaborate wedding his fiancée has planned, so he goes on a mugging spree. But when he kills a member of the secret society of Turning Stones, and steals a magic ring that gives him the power to shape shift, Shaw gets more than he bargained for.
Book two of The Turning Stone Chronicles titled “ Blood Brothers ” currently available in eBook on Amazon at: http://amzn.com/B00OVNFC8W and paperback: http://amzn.com/1619358271
When Delaney Ramsey is enlisted to help train two of the most powerful shape shifters the Turning Stone Society has seen in thousands of years, she suspects one of them is responsible for the disappearance of her daughter. To complicate matters, the man has a secret that could destroy them all. Bound by honor to protect the suspect, Delaney must prove his guilt without losing her life to his terrible powers or revealing to the police captain she’s falling for that she’s a shape shifter with more than one agenda.
The minute Captain Williams lays eyes on Delaney Ramsey, he knows she’s trouble. Uncooperative, secretive, and sexy, he can’t get her out of his mind. When he discovers she has a personal agenda for sifting through all the criminal records in his precinct, and secretly investigating his best detective, he can’t let her out of his sight. He must find out what she’s looking for before she does something illegal. If she steps over the line, he’s not certain he can look the other way for the sake of love.
Book three of The Turning Stone Chronicles titled “Son of the Moonless Night” currently available in eBook on Amazon at: http://amzn.com/B00XK3E172
Owen Todd Jordan Riley has a secret. He’s a shape shifter who has been hunting and killing his own kind. To him the only good shifter is a dead shifter. Revenge for the death of a friend motivates him, and nothing stands in his way . . . except Katrina Romanovski, the woman he is falling in love with.
Deputy coroner Katrina Romanovski has a secret, too. She hunts and kills paranormal beings like Owen. At least she did. When she rescues Owen from an attack by a werebear she is thrust back into the world she thought she’d left. Determined to find out what Owen knows about the bear, she begins a relationship meant to collect information. What she gets is something quite different-love with a man she suspects of murder. Can she reconcile his deception and murderous revenge spree and find a way to redeem him? Or will she condemn him for the same things she has done and walk away from love?
Book four of The Turning Stone Chronicles titled “The Mercenary & the Shifters” coming late summer 2016.
A desperate call from an ex-military buddy lands a mercenary soldier in the middle of a double kidnapping, caught in an ancient shape shifter war, and ensnared between two female shape shifters after the same thing … him.
Social Media Info:
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February 16, 2016
Wednesday Special Spotlight The Treasure
Shines on
The Treasure
BLURB:
From the Heavens comes a prince who will melt your heart.
‘A Pirate’s Life for Me,’ that is Celeste’s plan. Revenge drives her to be daring. Attacks by smoke demons, and the appearance of a swashbuckling rogue—a handsome rogue with magical powers—detracts her from the mission and reveals frightening truths about her family.
Orion is a time walker—a protector of the human race—and warrior against the Underworld King and his minions. The shadowy creatures seek the young woman who has the blood of the gods running through her veins. Orion senses something mysterious—and wrong—in Celeste’s blood.
Time Walker law dictates no interaction with humans, but Orion can’t stay away. Celeste has the uncanny ability to draw demons and time walkers, alike. To protect her, Orion must keep her hidden from the Underworld and his own people. Should the gods discover her secret, they will destroy her, and he won’t let that happen.
EXCERPT:
Celeste’s eyes adjusted to the darkness of the office. She lit a candle to scan the room for anything of value. On the massive desk which took up the biggest part of the room, she thumbed through numerous invoices for goods purchased from a ruthless pirate who transported them from the West Indies—Blackbeard. No surprise there.
She’d heard talk of shrewd deals the pirate captain made with local merchants in various ports. Of course being a shady businessman, Le Crosse would capitalize on the opportunity.
Male laughter sounded outside the door. She blew out the candle and prayed they would move past. The handle jiggled, and the key scraped in the lock. Her breathing stalled. A strong hand clamped over her mouth and pulled her behind a curtain draped next to a huge cabinet. A sword brushed against her hip in the confined space. Sinewy arms encased her in a protective cocoon.
“Do not move. Do not breathe,” he whispered. The softly spoken words warmed her skin. Pleasurable sparks fired her blood causing an ache between her legs. She clenched her thighs startled by the strange reaction.
Through a part in the curtain, she saw Le Crosse smile and shake hands with Blackbeard.
“I may be leaving in a bit of a rush soon,” Blackbeard said. “So I’ll be wantin my share.”
“How soon?”
Blackbeard shrugged, lowered his bulk into a padded chair, and seemed to stare directly at her. “Two days.”
Two days? Celeste’s heart sank. She’d just gotten used to being on land again and feeling clean. Blackbeard’s mission must be important for him to leave so soon. Plans needed to be set before she returned to the Revenge.
“I see,” the Frenchman said. “I have the payment for our last transaction, but my ships have not returned from the Colonies.”
“When are they expected?”
“Perhaps another seven days.”
The man holding her shifted slightly, a reminder of her precarious predicament. His body heat seared through the flimsy clothes she wore. A woodsy scent circled her nose. It was inviting—intoxicating—unnerving.
“I shall see you again upon my return for the rest of the money.”
Le Crosse opened a safe, pulled out a small cloth bag and dropped it on the desk. The sound of the coins hitting the wood suggested it held many.
“It is my pleasure.”
Blackbeard grunted and snatched the bag from the desk, dropping it into an inside pocket of his imperial jacket. Le Crosse blew out the candle and the two men left the room.
Celeste pushed out of the stranger’s arms, snatched the dagger from inside her boot, and swung around to glare at him. He stepped from behind the curtain. “You!” she hissed. Her eyes widened then narrowed. “That night on the dock, there was a fog.” She shook her head. “Then a man through the smoke put a blade to my throat.” She touched her temple. “You fought and killed it—him.”
He straightened and crossed powerful arms over a handsomely broad chest. A steely gaze assessed her.
“Will you not speak?”
“Let us not get into the matter of why you are sneaking around in a man’s private quarters or the fact you climbed a tree and scaled a building to do it.” He stalked toward her. “I must get you out of here. You cannot go back the way you came in.”
Her chin jutted. “I can and I will go back the way I came in.”
She started toward the window.
The stranger grabbed her arms and shook, making her head joggle. “Don’t be a fool. Be still and listen.”
He moved silently to the window and peered into the night. “Death soldiers are waiting at the bottom of the tree.”
Gasping, she said, “More like the one who attacked me? Will they come inside?”
“No. They don’t like crowds,” he snarled. “On the divan you’ll find your dress. Put it on.”
“How did you get my dress?” She snapped her mouth shut and raised her dagger.
His brow arched, and the corner of his mouth lifted, silently mocking her feeble weapon.
“Why would you help me? You do not know me.”
“Put. It. On. Now.”
His body seemed to vibrate with power. If those soldiers were waiting for her to leave, she would need his help. Huffing, she marched to the squat piece of furniture. Casting a glance over her shoulder to determine the whereabouts of the beguiling man, she slid the dagger back into her boot. “You shall not watch.”
“Honey, I’ve already seen the goods. Get. Dressed.”
Anger heated her face. Who does he think he is to order me around? She turned away, and quickly pulled on the petticoat then removed the breeches. The corset would not be as easy so she stuffed it into the bag. Celeste untied the black shirt, letting it fall around her hips, before stepping into the gown. Pulling it up higher she gripped the yellow fabric with one hand and attempted to take off the shirt, but fumbled with the awkwardness of the ordeal.
“By all the gods,” he growled.
On swift feet, he came to her, yanked the shirt over her head, and tossed it to the floor. “Now put the bloody dress on.”
“I need you to fasten the back,” she murmured with embarrassment.
With deft fingers, he buttoned the garment. “We are going downstairs and straight out the nearest door. Do you understand?”
“I am not deaf.”
“Daft is more like it,” he muttered.
“How dare you.”
He grabbed her arm and none too gently dragged her toward the door. Carefully opening it, he peered out the crack to make sure the coast was clear. “Okay, come on.”
He grasped her hand and pulled her behind him, keeping his other hand on the sword.
“Why are you doing this?” she whispered.
“Later.”
He got them to the stairs which they descended quickly. At the bottom, he steered her toward the nearest exit. Before reaching the doors, however, Le Crosse called out.
“Celeste, there you are. I have been searching for you.” Le Crosse eyed the man’s hold on her hand. His brow went up. “You know Ravensdale?”
“Uh, yes,” she squeaked. “We are old family friends.”
The letch didn’t release her hand but bowed to their host. “It has been a nice gathering, Monsieur, Thank you for inviting us.”
“Certainly, you are not leaving so soon.”
“We have news to catch up on from home.”
“Pity.” Le Crosse took her available hand and brushed slippery lips against her fingers. “Mayhap next time we shall have a private dinner.”
His lecherous gaze slowly passed down her body. Her stomach soured. She forced a sweet smile.
The rogue said, “Good evening,” and without breaking stride, dragged her stumbling into the humid night and through the jungle some distance away from the mansion and the music.
Celeste yanked herself from his hold. “My things.”
He pointed a finger at her. “Wait here.”
“But—”
“Stay.”
He snapped his fingers and in the blink of an eye all that remained where he’d been standing were twinkling sparks. She tumbled back with the sudden disappearance. She felt her cheeks thinking she must have contracted an illness on the last trip. Illnesses happened. But a man disappearing into thin air did not.
He flashed back, nearly knocking her over.
“Where did you—How did—What are you?”
“I can explain, but we need to get to a more secure place.”
Knowing he was capable of physically dragging her and deciding she’d not make it easy, Celeste crossed her arms and said, “I am not going anywhere with you.”
Since a very young age, she had the ability to detect if a person told untruths. Concentration helped her compel another to speak truthfully. Her papa said it was part of what made her special, but he warned her to keep it secret. With a slight nudge from her mind, Celeste willed the man to tell her the truth. “I do not know you or your intentions, sir.”
His lips thinned. Blowing out a frustrated sigh, he said, “My intention is to save your ass, princess.”
“I am not royalty,” she stated.
“More of a royal pain in my—”
“How do I know you speak the truth?” she said, staring hard. Tell me the truth. What are you?
The man radiated power in his stance, his eyes. His brow hiked. “I’ve saved you twice already.”
Her head ached causing her to break eye contact. She’d never met a person who was immune to the coercion. She got no cooperation from this man.
Cinching the bag he still carried, he said, “We need to move. Now.” He marched off, moving with swift grace and glancing behind to make sure she followed.
Three dark forms materialized in front of him. Ravensdale dropped the bundle and drew his sword. In one smooth move, he sliced through the middle of one short, stocky attacker which turned to crystal-like pebbles and fell to the ground.
Confusion stole her breath. Sandwiched by the other two, her rescuer laughed. The man was truly mad.
“Bring it on, scum.”
The fog was a physical part of the ruffians. They moved like smoke, sinuous and dirty, the edges of their forms constantly wisping away as if they didn’t belong here. But when they struck, their blows were solid as granite.
Swirling, Ravensdale lobbed the head from one stoutly soldier, and it evaporated with a brilliant light. The ground sizzled where its blood splattered.
Disturbed by the scene unfolding before her, she didn’t notice two more soldiers sneaking up behind until one grabbed her. She fought against his hold. “Let me go.”
She stomped on the attacker’s foot which surprisingly loosened his grip. She broke free and scurried to pick up a branch. The menace aimed a pistol at her.
“You go that way,” she heard one soldier say. He was different than the others, taller and no clouds of smoke. He looked…normal.
She held the branch high and kept switching her gaze from one to the other. “What are you?”
The smoky creature’s black eyes gleamed evilly. “The thing that keeps you up at night.”
She let out an unladylike snort. “Not likely.”
“Can I join in the fun?” Her savior’s smooth voice had a hard edge to it.
The more normal looking one said, “Bloodsport is one of my favorite games, time walker. Please, by all means, join us.”
The shadow creature lunged for her while his leader unsheathed a wicked-looking sword to engage in a fight with Ravensdale.
She swung the wood and banged the creature’s head. The strike was like hammering the mast on the ship. It growled but didn’t go down and lunged again. The gown hampered her movements, and the shadow kicked at her legs. She fell hard to the ground.
It jumped on top of her. Celeste kicked and punched until it grabbed her hands and pointed the pistol at her face. Sobered by the severity of the situation she ceased struggling.
“Rise,” it said through cracked lips. It stood but kept a tight grip on her wrists.
The other two swirled and slashed, each time clashing swords. Smiling the leader said, “It looks as though my associate has completed our mission. Killing you will be the coup de gras.”
His sword swung high toward Ravensdale’s neck. She cried out. He deflected the strike with ease and punched his opponent in the face.
“Associate? Is that what you call those rotting puffs? And here I thought you were just a glorified pet-sitter for Kur.”
“Victory will be mine this day,” the leader promised. The tip of his sword jabbed Ravensdale’s thigh.
In a quick move Ravensdale pivoted and sliced through the middle of the leader, who bled like any other man. Before severed completely in two, the blackguard disappeared with a pop.
The one holding her aimed the pistol at Ravensdale. She rammed an elbow into its gut. The shot ricocheted off a tree. Her rescuer threw a dagger, hitting it in the forehead. It disintegrated.
Celeste’s stomach heaved and she fell to her knees. “I feel dizzy.” Violent tremors rocked her body. Surely she must be hexed.
Ravensdale knelt beside her. “It’ll wear off in a few minutes. The close proximity of galla has that effect on humans.” He helped her up.
She scanned the area but saw no bodies. Her palms went to the sides of her head, trying to stop the spinning.
Ravensdale picked up the pistol and stuck it in his belt, and retrieved her bag. “We need to relocate.”
Fear clawed at her nerves. Afraid to go alone, she said, “I have a house not too far from here.”
“Where?”
“Follow me.” She snatched the bag from his hand and stalked away, still a little woozy, but managing to stay on her feet.
Although Ravensdale’s leg bled, he did not limp. His strong jaw tightened as he watched the shadows. The sword clenched in his hand dripped with dark blood.
“Your leg is bleeding,” she said.
“It’s not bad,” he replied.
“What is your name?” she asked.
“Orion.”
“Ravensdale?”
“No, that was the name I used to get into the party.”
Nodding, she said, “I am Celeste.”
“The first time we met, you were dressed as a boy.”
She slowed her pace. “How did you know it was me?”
He stopped and stared down at her. “You have a very unique scent. I can smell you.”
She shook her head and started walking again. “I wear no perfume.”
He chuckled. “I wasn’t talking about perfume.”
“Then what?”
“Your blood, Celeste. Your blood.”
Contact: sloanmcbride@gmail.com
Website: Sloan McBride Website
Buy Links: (Currently up for Pre-Orders for release on 4/11/16)
February 15, 2016
Tell Again Tuesday The Importance of Attending Book Fairs and Festivals
A blog series where we shamelessly share posts from others that we have enjoyed.
Here is why it is important to get out of the office. It can be fun.
The Importance of Attending Book Fairs and Festivals
December 16, 2015
When Marketing Your Novel
Any author who has ever been in the midst of marketing and getting their book out into the world, knows about book fairs and festivals–a cornucopia of authors from all different genres sitting at finely decorated tables as they smile and try to catch the attention of visitors.
But exactly why are book fairs and festivals important for a budding or even a seasoned author? And, are there any secrets to making the most of one?
For the rest of the blog go to:
http://longvalleypress.com/2015/12/16/
February 11, 2016
Friday Feature Roni Hall Montana Wild
Visits with
Roni Hall
Author of
Montana Wild
Welcome Roni Hall to our Friday Feature series. Please tell us a little about your background and your new book Montana Wild. Very interesting name for your book, by the way. Take it away Roni.
As a nurse, I encountered numerous memorable patients but there were a few that forever settled into my heart. Montana Wild is fiction, but Jacob, the patient in the story was real. In the span of a human lifetime, I knew him a very short time, but his spirit had a lasting effect on me. Jacob died decades ago but he stays with me and inspired me to write.
How is it that someone I knew for so short a time could have such a lasting effect on me?
Have you ever had a chance encounter with someone . . . a stranger, and you just clicked, even for a few minutes? I am not talking romantically, it goes deeper and more to the core than that. Age, gender, race doesn’t come into play … you just feel a connection with their spirit. In my lifetime, this has happened to me only a handful of times but I cherish each occurrence.
I was in an elevator with a group of people once when it happened…something almost magical. For those few short moments, as we traveled between floors, I felt a kinship… talking, laughing, interacting on a real level, sharing an unusually close rapport of humankind. As the routine journey stopped at every floor, packed in like sardines, we became one…sharing laughter, stories, kindness…basic human spirit. When we finally reached our destination, I felt sadness when the doors opened and the shared warmth dissipated as we all went our separate ways. I mourned that it was over, but a deep contentment lingered as I knew I had just shared something special. Did everyone feel that same afterglow? I hope so. Why does it happen so rarely?
Jacob’s time with me was short but when a connection like that happens, one cannot measure it in time but in essence. A bit of his spirit lives on in me. It was a gift. Thank you Jacob.
And thank you Roni for shareing with us. Now readers read on for a look at Roni’s new book.
Montana Wild Blurb
Spiraling downward after losing two loved ones within one week, Jamie’s world was closing in…until she grabs an unexpected lifeline and escapes. Knowing only New York City, Montana is another world and she is unprepared by how the land, the people and even the animals touch her. After risking her life to save a child, Jamie shares an undeniable bond and the beginning ripples of deep emotions with her co-rescuer, Kevin. However, her past follows her to Montana and threatens all that she loves there. Jamie has no choice but to hurt Kevin in order to save his life and returns to New York with her ex, Derrick. Broken, Kevin refuses to believe she doesn’t love him and searches for Jamie, only to find her in Derrick’s lair. Once again Jamie tries to protect Kevin but this time gets caught in the cross fire.
Excerpt:
Swept up into the sea of travelers at the airport, Jamie focused her attention back to the present as she followed the human current through check-in and security gates. It wasn’t until she was buckled into her seat that she registered the panic present in the far corner of her mind. What am I doing? A sickening wave of nausea rose in her throat as clammy beads of sweat trickled down her face. What the hell am I doing? Get up. Get off the plane now. It’s not too late, go!
Dizzy with indecision, she reached for the buckle on her seatbelt as her alternate conscience spoke up. No, stay. Do I really want to go back to my cramped little studio and spend more time alone? Her fingers released the grip on her seatbelt and she closed her eyes, deliberately trying to relax the tense wires in every fiber of her body.
Uneasy thoughts lingered after her internal schizophrenic conversation and she tried to leave all doubts behind as the plane ascended. Finding it impossible to concentrate on reading, she tried to distract herself by striking up a conversation with the unlucky soul sitting next to her.
“Have you ever been to Montana?”
“Oh yes, my sister lives there and I try to visit her every few years. How about you?”
“No, I’ve never been. This’s my first time and I’m nervous,” Jamie admitted.
“It’s pretty enough, but it’s rough country. I couldn’t live there. What brings you?”
Well, I finally got enough backbone to break up with my abusive, criminal boyfriend Derrick three months ago, and then my best friend and only ally, Noah, left on tour. I have NO family since my father died an agonizing death from lung cancer ten years ago, resulting in my mother becoming depressed and committing suicide two years later. I was pathetic enough to attach myself to one of my patients and become a helpless spectator as death cruelly consumed him. Only days after his death, my only surviving relative and second mother died, leaving me a 31-year-old orphan. So you see, I’m a loser and terribly lonely. So when this man I’ve never met in person asked me to join him on an intriguing escape across the country, I accepted.
That was the whole enchilada she wanted to spew out to the sweet, unsuspecting gray-haired matron in seat 21A. Instead she answered succinctly, “Just visiting a friend.”
Buy link on Amazon: http://amzn.to/1UZZb4V
Author Bio
The summer after high school graduation, Roni worked two jobs to pay for nursing school. During the midnight shift as a waitress, a charismatic young man at the counter flirted with her for hours as he consumed seven cups of coffee. Their first date was eventful enough to be a book itself! Thirty-seven years and two kids later, the love story continues. Just like her novels, life can’t be too simple and you must make it an adventurous ride!
Her favorite place to write is in her hammock at their small Michigan cottage where she literally dodges the feeding hummingbirds while being serenaded by the lake’s loons. Besides writing, she loves Slow Rollin’ in Detroit and the combination of good food, better wine, and dear friends.
Where to Contact Roni:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ronihall02
Web site: http://www.ronihall.com/
Email: roni@ronihall.com
Amazon buy link for Montana Wild: http://amzn.to/1UZZb4V
February 9, 2016
Wednesday Special Spotlight The Fury
Highlights
THE FURY
BLURB:
From the Heavens comes a hero who will take your breath away.
Reese Whittaker dreams of falling for a man who shares her love of archeology and ancient civilizations. But being attacked by a horde of demons and rescued by a Sumerian God—a well-armed, gorgeous Sumerian God—opens up a world she never knew existed, attracting all kinds of supernatural attention.
Dagan, son of the Air God and a Time Walker, is sworn to protect the human race in general, and one young woman in particular—Reese. He’s not the only one mysteriously attracted to her powerful life force. Underworld leader Kur craves it for the untold power it will give him to strike a blow at the deities of Dilmun.
Dagan is forbidden by law to interact with Reese, but from the moment he sees her, the fury—an intense sexual need for bonding—blinds him to all the rules. Should the pantheon discover he has fallen for a human, the punishment could mean death for him and Reese.
EXCERPT:
A bogie jumped on Dagan’s back with enough force to knock them both to the slippery wooden deck.
“Stay inside, Reese. Lock yourself in.” Dagan managed to yell the order before the demon struck him in the face with a vicious blow.
Reese wrapped her hand around the handle of a cast iron skillet sitting on the counter and raced outside to see two more rushing toward them. Scared to death, but unable to leave Dagan to do battle alone, she ran at the two new fiendish-looking creatures and whacked the first one in the head. It dropped to the ground like a stone. The second one turned on her and she swung at him but he deflected the blow. He laughed and produced what she thought was supposed to be a sneer, but it was hard to tell.
It grabbed at her, but she managed to hit it in the knee with her sturdy weapon. When it yowled and bent forward, she belted him on the back of the neck and he joined his cohort at her feet.
Searching the area with her eyes, she saw Dagan beat the one who had jumped him down, pull out his sword and cut off its head. A bright flash lit up the night turning it to what looked like black coal dust. Another one grabbed Dagan’s lapel and pulled him over the railing.
“Finish him. I’ll get the female,” the one she assumed was the leader said.
The taller demon came after her and she ran. Reese heard gunshots as she bashed one galla in the head and turned to come face to face with a human. At least that’s what she thought until he spoke.
“You’ve been a nasty piece of business, I must say,” he sneered. “Now we’re through and you’re coming with me.”
The vicious glint in his eyes sent a sliver of fear clattering through her. The stench from his mouth made her want to gag. “I don’t think so.”
Dagan leapt onto the porch. The smell of gunpowder and the loud report of the guns filled the night as he rapidly fired into the demon’s body. It dropped to its knees and glared at Dagan.
“Tell your boss I’ll be seeing him soon,” Dagan promised.
The evil being hissed and melted away. He could have given the Wicked Witch of the West a run for her money in the melting department.
Dagan retrieved his sword and sheathed it. He strode toward her wearing a deep frown. She stared at the blackened remnants on the porch, door and side of the house which were fading as night fell.
“The next time I tell you to run, run, dammit.”
Her gaze snapped to him. “You’re not my keeper.”
His intense stare locked on her. “You need a keeper.”
Reese straightened and glared at him, a fist of anger returning. “They deserved it.” She narrowed her eyes on him. “You deserved it too.”
“Come on.” Dagan grabbed her arm, pulled her inside, closed and locked the door.
She marched over to the pantry and pulled out a broom.
“What are you doing?”
Memories of what had just happened tap danced on her psyche, memories she shouldn’t have—no one should have. “I’m going to sweep that rubbish off my porch.” Her hands were shaking.
“Not tonight.”
“I don’t suppose you’d leave?”
Moving to her he said, “Not gonna happen.”
Instantly, Reese dropped the broom and started slapping at the front of her shirt. Her eyes grew wider. “My chest is burning.”
“Dammit.” His bright green eyes turned black as the night. He tore off Rufus’s coat and the robe, grabbed her shirt and pulled it over her head. Her body trembled.
Tossing the smoldering shirt into the sink, Dagan picked Reese up and ran to the bathroom. He set her into the bathtub, turned on the water, tossed his holster, sheaths for his knives and stars off, then stepped in with her.
Pushing her under the spray, he silently lathered his hands with the soap and began massaging her chest, arms, and down her stomach. “The galla’s blood is like acid.”
He turned her around to rinse the soap off and undid her bra. “When I shot the last one some of its blood must have gotten on your clothes. That’s why it burned.”
Again, he lathered his hands and soaped her back, shoulders and arms. He threw the soggy bra on the floor and gently unbuttoned her pants and drew them down her wet legs and tossed everything into a heap. “Let me look at you, to make sure your skin is undamaged.”
He turned her to face him and brushed callused hands over her skin. “Just a little redness. It didn’t get all the way through your shirt enough to burn your skin, but let’s wash you one more time to be sure.”
She nodded but didn’t speak.
Contact: sloanmcbride@gmail.com
Website: http://www.sloanmcbride.com/
Buy Links:
Print Book: Amazon
Audiobook: Audible
February 8, 2016
Tell Again Tuesday Defining a series
A blog series where we shamelessly share posts from others that we have enjoyed.
We all hear about series TV, Movies, or Books. Ever wonder what that means? Here is a good explanation.
Defining a series
Sunday, December 20, 2015
The first thing many folks ask after finding out you wrote a book, is, “is it a series? Are there more books?” Now one might think that is a simple question, but it really isn’t. Just what is a series?
Let’s start at the top with the -ology’s – trilogies, etc. These are . . .
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February 4, 2016
Friday Feature Belle Ami One More Time is Not Enough
Learns about
One More Time is Not Enough
From author
Belle Ami
Today we get to hear from Belle Ami about, One More Time is Not Enough, which is due to released on March 9th provided things go smoothly with the publishing process. (Keep your fingers crossed). With that administrivia out of the way, we turn the page over to Belle.
First off, hats off, to Catherine and Donald, for allowing me the opportunity to participate in Friday Features.
One More time is Not Enough, is my first book that is being published by Soul Mate Publishing. Although, it is the third book in my The Only One series, it is a stand-alone novel.
THE STORY
Once is Not Enough is a steamy, sexy suspense novel guaranteed to keep you turning pages. Adelia Lindstrom Bremen has a dilemma, she is in love with two men, and she doesn’t know that she is about to become the next target on a serial killer’s blacklist.
This is the story of a woman trying to get her life back on track. A woman who instills passion and desire from the two men who love her. Adelia has everything, she is independently wealthy, she has beautiful twin children, and a career that she loves. Even with all of her blessings her life has become a minefield of lies, disappointments, and tragedy:
Her parents were murdered;
Her marriage ended in a messy divorce and custody battle;
Her children were kidnapped by her ex-sister-in-law and had to be rescued from Cuba;
Her godfather that murdered her parents was killed in the rescue.
Now, she has discovered that her birth father wasn’t the man who raised her, but was her godfather, the man who killed her parents.
With a secret that was carried to their graves her parents and her godfather lied to her. In her life, secrets abound, but none is more surprising than learning that she has a half-sister. A sister that she hopes will be the key to healing her broken heart and rebuilding the family that she sorely misses.
Which of the two men that love her will she choose? Can she forgive her ex-husband, Miles for betraying her? Can she find a way to build a life with her lover David, a recent graduate of the FBI?
When she receives a letter from her godfather, Lucas, a deathbed missive that threatens her life and future, will she listen? She has vowed to amend her parents’ Trust to better reflect their wishes, and that promise has placed her in the cross-hairs of a serial killer. Someone is killing scientists that deny man-made climate change and Adelia is about to find out that putting her life back together and opening herself to love may be the least of her worries.
Can she find her true love and survive being the prey of a serial killer? Can the two men who love her rescue her in time? The clock is ticking.
Excerpt:
The sports car hugged the road as David down-shifted into a hairpin curve on Route 1. Adelia brushed the wind-blown wisps of hair that had escaped her braid from her eyes. She leaned her head against the headrest and absorbed the Indian Summer sunshine. On the radio, Sirius Satellite’s station, The Highway, competed with the engine’s roar. At the FBI Academy David had fallen in love with country music thanks to Preston. A Chris Young song came on the radio and he turned up the volume.
“Listen to the words, I believe this is our song.”
She turned to look at him but his dark aviator sunglasses hid his eyes. With her curiosity piqued, she listened. A sexy baritone voice filled the air.
Tomorrow I’m gonna leave here;
I’m gonna let you go and walk away like every day I said I would;
And tomorrow, I’m gonna listen;
To that voice of reason inside my head telling me that we’re no good;
But tonight I’m gonna give in one last time;
Rock you strong in these arms of mine;
Forget all the regrets that are bound to follow;
We’re like fire and gasoline;
I’m no good for you;
You’re no good for me;
We only bring each other tears of sorrow;
But tonight, I’m gonna love you like there’s no tomorrow;
Adelia switched off the radio and turned away from him as she fought back her tears. “Are you trying to hurt me? I don’t remember you ever being cruel.”
“No, I’m trying to be honest with you. We both know this magical escape is an illusion. A week from now I’ll go to Washington and you’ll go back to your kids, and Miles will convince you to remarry him. Just like the song says, “we only bring each other tears of sorrow.”
“You don’t know a thing, David Weiss.” Frustration simmered inside of her. “Can’t you for once just live in the moment?”
“One of us has to try and keep the moment real.”
“I still don’t understand why you joined the FBI? You’ve made it impossible for us to be together. It’s as if you’re doing everything in your power to put obstacles in our way. All that professed love for me, was it all a lie?”
He reached over and took her hand, raising it to his lips, he kissed her knuckles. “I’d take a bullet for you, and you know it.”
“Then show me what you feel, show me you love me.”
“I’m here, aren’t I? Isn’t that enough.”
She turned away from him. “No, it’s not enough. It will never be enough.
Amazon
http://bookshow.me/TheOneAndMore
BIO
Tema Merback, writing as Belle Ami, couldn’t be more excited to be given the opportunity to be published by Soul Mate Publishing: “Dreams do come true”. As a mother and wife, she dedicated herself to her family and loved every minute of it. One day, like Sleeping Beauty, she awoke to find gourmet cooking and being a classical pianist wasn’t enough, she needed to reinvent herself. So, she brushed away the cobwebs and locked herself in a room and spent a year writing a historical novel which, low and behold, was a Finalist for a national book award. Her first author incarnation was born.
When she read Fifty Shades of Grey, her world tilted. Like a laser beam focusing on a target, she had found her passion: Sexy, steamy, romantic suspense. Hence came a second incarnation and a fitting nom de plume, Belle Ami. A quote that Belle considers her mantra is by Wilferd Peterson, “Success is focusing the full power of all you are on what you have a burning desire to achieve.”
She is a Kathryn McBride scholar of Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania. She lives in California with her husband, two children, three dogs, and horse.
She is the author of The Only One series, The One (#1), and The One & More (#2). Her third in the series titled One More Time is Not Enough will be published March 2016.
Contact Belle Ami:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/belle.ami.96?fref=ts
Twitter: @BelleAmi5
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/belleami96/
Website: http://belleami.us/
February 2, 2016
Tell Again Tuesday Accounting 101 for Authors – Accounting Software
A blog series where we shamelessly share posts from others that we have enjoyed.
What’s more timely this time of year than information about accounting for taxes? Maybe too late for taxes this year but for the furture.
Accounting 101 for Authors – Accounting Software
January 27, 2016
When deciding up which accounting software for your small business, it’s pretty much going to depend on personal preference. Only you are going to know what you are comfortable with and can understand.
There are two types of accounting programs on the market today. . . .
For the rest of the blog go to:
January 28, 2016
Friday Feature Sloan McBride Time Walker Series
Visit by
Sloan McBride
Author of the
Time Walker Series
Hi, I’m Sloan McBride and would like to thank you for stopping by to hear my ramblings. Believe me, I can talk forever about my stories to the point of people’s eyes rolling back in their head and them passing out on the floor. Luckily, you guys are all sitting down. 
Anyway, I’m a romance author who dabbles in fantasy and suspense, but I’m always deep in the paranormal. Today I thought I’d touch on some of the research I’ve done and how it helped me build the Time Walker World.
I write the Time Walker Series, based “loosely” off of Sumerian Mythology.
My Story: The Goddess Inanna calls for the time walker army to be formed after hearing Ninmah, the Earth-Mother Goddess, tell the tale of how Kur, the creature, killed all in the village where he was being cared for. Kur went on a rampage and killed many across the land before disappearing. The gods didn’t know at the time that he had gone to the Underworld. They only knew Kur was a problem that needed to be dealt with.
Mythology: Inanna is the Sumerian Queen of Heaven, sometimes associated with the planet Venus and sometimes with the Moon. Her symbol is an 8-pointed star. She travels to the Underworld to see her sister, Ereshkigal, the Queen of the Underworld, and dies when sentenced to death by the 7 Anuna.
My Story: The star is the symbol tattooed on the forearm of all time walkers when they agree to serve in the army of warriors and battle Kur and the minions of the Underworld. Ereshkigal was kidnapped by Kur when he went to the Underworld. He keeps her hidden and prisoner for centuries torturing her in the name of love. In his own way he does love her and he wants her to be Queen at his side to rule the Underworld, but she refuses. Her will is strong. The Anuna are fallen gods who tried to overthrow the king and were banished along with all demonkind to the Underworld. The Anuna are masters of strategy and warfare.
I am doing a 4-part blog hop discussing research and the Time Walker World. This is part 1. Please keep an eye out on my website http://www.sloanmcbride.com/ for information of where the other blogs will be held.
Let’s play Guess Who to win Book 1 – “The Fury.” I will give you a clue. Email your answers to sloanmcbride@gmail.com. I will assign each person who gets the answer right a number and will draw the winner with Random.org number generator.
Here’s the clue:
“He’s not much of a talker, but when he swings by, you’ll go on a wild ride. He’s a simple dresser who likes to monkey around.”
BLURB FOR THE FURY:
~~From the Heavens comes a hero who will take your breath away.~~
Reese Whittaker dreams of falling for a man who shares her love of archeology and ancient civilizations. But being attacked by a horde of demons and rescued by a Sumerian God—a well-armed, gorgeous Sumerian God—opens up a world she never knew existed, attracting all kinds of supernatural attention.
Dagan, son of the Air God and a Time Walker, is sworn to protect the human race in general, and one young woman in particular—Reese. He’s not the only one mysteriously attracted to her powerful life force. Underworld leader Kur craves it for the untold power it will give him to strike a blow at the deities of Dilmun.
Dagan is forbidden by law to interact with Reese, but from the moment he sees her, the fury—an intense sexual need for bonding—blinds him to all the rules. Should the pantheon discover he has fallen for a human, the punishment could mean death for him and Reese.
EXCERPT FROM THE FURY:
While Dagan’s superhero act had been impressive, she didn’t know him and this whole scenario had become absurd. When he’d gone into the building, he’d taken the car keys with him, which had nixed Reese’s chance for a fast escape. The temperature and the fact that she saw nothing else around kept her from trying to escape on foot. Pushing severe tiredness aside, she’d opened the glove compartment to search for a weapon of some sort. She found Kleenex, the car registration and a road map, but nothing viable for protection. She needed warmth and a grande-size cup of hot chocolate. Her feet were numb and her hands hurt.
It felt warmer when she entered the place. The antiquated heat register hissed and coughed.
“I’m going to put the car on the backside of the building out of sight. When I leave, lock the door and don’t let anyone else in except me,” Dagan instructed her. He tossed the key on the table.
The numbness had now spread to her entire body. It took great effort to turn and lock the door, certain she wouldn’t let him back in. The phone, she’d decided, but couldn’t keep a coherent thought. Her feet felt like anvils and dragged as she wandered to the double bed in the musty smelling dime-sized room.
A wave of exhaustion went through her. Her legs collapsed and she dropped to the edge of the bed.
She wanted to sleep.
She had to concentrate hard to stay awake so she focused on what looked like a palm tree on the filthy wallpaper. She didn’t know how long she’d sat there until she heard someone calling her name.
“Reese. Reese. Come on, honey, look at me.”
When she tilted her head, she saw Dagan bent over her, a worried expression on his face. How did he get back inside the room? He lifted her up, wrapped his arm around her waist, and pulled off her coat. Next, he sat her down and removed her shoes. He turned her, placed his hands on either side of her face, and using his thumbs, pulled down her lower eyelids to stare into her eyes.
“Dammit.”
Dagan grabbed the bottom of her shirt and lifted it over her head. Gentle fingers caressed her neck, shoulders and arms.
“Your arm was nicked by the melari dart when the galla fell. They are coated with a potent sleeping drug. That’s why you’re so sluggish.”
Sliding his hand under her knees Dagan picked her up and placed her head on a pillow. In a haze, she watched him go into the bathroom, come back to check the lone window then bolt the door.
In murmurs so rhythmic they sounded like song, he repeated a chant several times. His sultry voice made her want to curl herself around his body and purr.
She felt him slide the cover and bedspread over her before climbing into the squeaky bed and spooning up against her spine.
“What are you doing?” she managed through numb lips.
“Your body is like ice. My body heat will warm you and we both need rest. Go to sleep, Reese.”
A thought that she should be outraged and embarrassed came to mind, but passed as she closed her eyes and got lost in the cocoon of warmth and sleep.
When he’d knocked on the door and Reese hadn’t responded, a trickle of fear had clutched his throat. He used his powers to open the door and found her sitting on the bed in a kind of trance. Luckily, only some of the melari had gotten into her system. If more of the drug had been injected into her bloodstream, she would have become comatose. She should be fine in the morning.
It had been a while since he’d lain with a woman. Her even breaths told him she slept. She still had an occasional shiver, but the chill had at last left her body. The soft fragrance of the woman tempted him with a delicate aroma, but this was no fragile female.
Contact: sloanmcbride@gmail.com
Website: http://www.sloanmcbride.com/
Buy Links: Amazon
Print Book: Amazon
Audiobook: Audible
BIO:
Sloan McBride is a multi-published romance author who tends to lean more toward paranormal. Her current fascination is the Time Walkers and she plans to spend many hours and devote numerous books to this army of warriors. Book 2 coming in 2016.
Another series follows the lives of smokejumpers—Men of Fire—if you’ve never heard about them check out “Dangerous Heat.” These heroes are sexy, daredevils, who will steal your heart and leave you breathless.
Her debut novel, “Highland Stone,” is a time travel romance mixing her love of Scottish Highlanders and the idea that a person can travel to another time and place, love and be happy. A sequel to this novel is planned and plotted, and coming.
Sloan has five books crashing around in her head at any given time, making sleep and concentrating on anything else difficult.
She lives in Illinois with her husband of 34 years, her daughter, her son, and Oakley, the princess girly dog. Her life is chaotic most times and she has to fight for writing time, but she manages.
You never know what will come out of her dizzy brain, but you can be sure it will delight readers in one way or another.
January 26, 2016
Wednesday Special Spotlight Text Me Erin Bevan
Shines on
Text Me
Blurb:
When Erika’s ex becomes her boss less than a year after dumping her by text, she gets desperate to find a date to the corporate Valentine’s dance so he doesn’t suspect she still has feelings for him. Though not a fan of texting for the obvious reason, she doesn’t have much choice but to tap the keypad in order to gain the attention of the only viable candidate from the classified ads.
Grayson made the mistake of listening to his brother a year ago and has regretted what he did to Erika ever since. But his brother’s next suggestion just might be his salvation when he takes out an ad for a Valentine’s date…and Erika answers.
Using a pseudo name and keeping contact to text messages only, Grayson’s plans to make Erika fall back in love with him appears to be working…until the date of the dance draws near, and she pushes a meeting—face to face.
Excerpt:
Valentine’s Day.
She sank deeper into the couch. What was she going to do? She couldn’t show up alone to the company dance. Not with the chance of Grayson being there. No way.
“Maybe go to another speed dating session?” She grabbed a tissue off the coffee table and wiped the excess slime from her fingers.
“My hairdresser’s single. You want me to ask him?”
“Your hairdresser’s gay. I don’t think he’d be interested in me.”
“Really?” Megan gave her a funny stare.
“Really.” Erika snorted. “Have you not seen the picture of him and his ex-partner at his station?”
“That was his partner?” Her friend’s mouth gapped open. “I thought it was his brother.”
She shook her head. Her friend was one of the smartest people she knew, but common sense eluded the girl.
Megan popped more hearts in her mouth. “That explains so much now,” she mumbled around the candy. “No wonder my hair always looks good.”
“Yes, it does.” Erika sipped her wine.
Her friend swallowed. “Well, I’m sorry, honey. I don’t know any single guys. If I did, I’d try to date them myself.”
“That’s okay.” She sighed and slumped back onto the sofa.
“Is Grayson single?”
“I don’t know. Why are you asking?” She narrowed her gaze. “You want to date him?”
“No.” Her friend said “no” as if it was the most obvious answer in the world.
“I’m thinking about you. You wouldn’t go back out with Grayson again, would you? Please say no.” Megan’s shoulders sagged.
Go back out with Grayson. She never thought she’d be given another chance. Would she go back out with him after the way he treated her? Of course not. She deserved better, despite how wonderful he had been.
“I don’t think so. He really hurt me. I can’t give him that privilege again.”
“Good for you.” Her roommate perked up and patted her on the back. “Stay strong. You’ll find someone.”
“You’re right. I’m going to have a date for that corporate Valentine’s dance, even if I have to search the classifieds.”
“Surely, it won’t come to that.” Megan held up her glass for a toast.
Erika clinked hers with her friend’s. “Yeah, surely.”
Her roommate sat her glass down on the table and reached for more hearts.
“Here, give me one of those.”
“I love reading the little sayings.” Megan passed her a heart and tossed her dark hair behind her shoulder. “What’s yours say?”
She flipped over the candy to see the phrase. Bright pink letters stared back at her. Oh, you can’t be serious. “‘Text me’. Seriously?”
Megan burst out laughing.
“You would find that funny.” Erika popped the heart in her mouth and obliterated the little saying she had grown to hate so much.
Buy Link: http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=195&products_id=6601
Or
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B019G1FOR2/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1453151723&sr=1-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=text+me&dpPl=1&dpID=51J7uzeJ-1L&ref=plSrch
Erin Bevan
Erin Bevan is a wife and mother of three. An avid reader, one day she decided to try her luck in writing stories of her own, and the idea paid off. She spends her days deep in the heart of Texas, fighting mosquitoes, cleaning dirty faces, and writing when the kids nap. If it’s a really good day, she even finds time to brush her hair.
Links:
https://www.facebook.com/erinbevanwrites/
Twitter @ErinBevan
