Mara Valderran's Blog, page 29

What's Up Wednesday

What’s Up Wednesday is a weekly meme geared toward readers and writers, allowing us to touch base with blog friends and let them know what’s up. Should you wish to join us, you will find the link widget at the bottom of Jaime’s post. We really hope you will take part!


You'd think that not much can change over the course of a week, but it can. So I am back again with What's Up Wednesday to tell you how!


What I'm Reading:
I finished Communion by B. Patterson and absolutely loved it, as I'm sure you can tell by my review. Now I've moved on to The Actuator by James Wymore and Aiden James. This book is such a unique concept and a great amalgamation of different genres. Curiosity Quills is putting together an anthology of short stories that take place in the Actuator universe, and the wheels in my head are spinning away with possible story ideas. If you want more information on how you can submit a short story in the Actuator world for the anthology, check out the Borderlands Anthology page on Curiosity Quills' site. 

Next up I'll be reading The Curse of Malenfer Manor by Iain McChesney to review for his tour. I also had the pleasure of interviewing him, so I'm looking forward to reading his work all the more.

What I'm Writing:
I'm still working on Altar of Reality, but I am ten times more excited about it. I work best by bouncing ideas off of others, and my cousin is one of my go-to people for this. We went on a road trip and she had me read what I have of AoR to her, and then we did a little brainstorming and came up with some awesome ideas that I cannot wait to apply to the story. I thought it only had a few more chapters, but now I am thinking there's much more to the end of this book than I thought. I'm so excited about where this book is going and how it is transforming into a series that it might be a little hard to move back to Heirs of War. I will, of course. But I'll be torn.

Speaking of AoR, my husband has talked me into traditionally querying the book once it is done and polished. I fully intended on self-publishing it like HoW, because, well, I like self-publishing better than trying to go the traditional route. But he thinks it is an easier sell than HoW and it is worth a try, so I'm going to go for it. Unfortunately, it is nowhere near ready for any of the query contests coming up. But there's always next year!

What Inspires Me Right Now:
Talking about AoR inspires me. I've also been rewatching Season One of Arrow with my husband, so that's got me in the "Write some kick ass scenes with people kicking ass" mood. I ditched Revolution for the time being. My cover artist suggested I watch The Colony, and I think I'd rather give that a try than deal with Revolution. I've heard it gets better, but the only character I care about a few episodes in is the uncle, and I'm not sure that's enough of a pull for me to continue watching.

And, of course, I am looking for inspiration from Aiden James and James Wymore so I can write my short story submission for their anthology. =)

What Else I'm Up To:
I can't believe I failed to talk about how awesome my blog tour was last week. It's been ten days since the tour wrapped up, so I think enough time has passed from the stress of it all for me to really appreciate it. I only had a couple missed stops, which really isn't a big deal to me. I didn't contact the missed posters because it was already done and as a tour host, I know how life can get in the way and things can slip under the radar. I still appreciate that they signed up to begin with.

I have been doing so many giveaways that I actually lost track of some. I think I am all caught up now, and ready to give away some more e-copies of the book. I'm still trying to think of a way to do something new and fresh, so stay tuned!

In my non-writerly life, the hubby and I are planning a Halloween party and finally have our costumes. I don't want to say what we are going as just yet because I am so excited to post pictures of our clever idea. It's gonna be awesome! After that, we will be getting ready for the holidays (including my thirtieth birthday--what???) and a trip to Nashville to visit some family. And somewhere in between, I will have finished writing three books before school starts in January.

Until next week...

New Adult Author Spotlight & Giveaway: Jennifer Lane

WITH GOOD BEHAVIOR BLURB: 

In a world gripped by organized crime, family dysfunction, and dim hopes of redemption, can true love persevere? For Sophie Taylor, a beautiful psychologist who lost everything when she violated an ethical boundary, and Grant Madsen, a handsome naval officer who sacrificed everything to protect a loved one, finding that love may carry an unbearable cost. 

Starting their lives over in Chicago, both are fighting influences from their family and running as fast as they can to escape the past. When their paths cross outside the parole officer's door, the attraction is instantaneous. But a hidden connection may not only shatter their fledgling love, but prove deadly to them both.



JENNIFER LANE BIO:People fascinate the psychologist/author (psycho author) known as Jennifer Lane. Her therapy clients talk to her all day long about their dreams and secrets, and her characters tell her their stories at night. Jen delights in peeling away the layers to scrutinize their psyches and emotions. But please rest assured, dear reader, she isn’t psychoanalyzing you right now. She’s already got too many voices in her head!

Stories of redemption interest Jen the most, especially the healing power of love. She is the author of The Conduct Series—-romantic suspense for adult readers—-and recently completed the third and final installment: On Best Behavior. Streamline is her first foray into writing for young and new adults, but she’s found this sort of writing even more fun. A former college swimmer, Jen was able to put a lot of her own experiences into this book. 
Whether writing or reading, Jen loves stories that make her laugh and cry. In her spare time she enjoys exercising, attending book club, and hanging out with her sisters and their families in Chicago and Hilton Head.
GIVEAWAY:To enter the giveaway, go to each blog and enter the corresponding code into the Rafflecopter.

This is Blog #4 and the code is JENNIFERLSWALLOW
Blog #1: www.dawnpendleton.com 
Blog #2 www.StephanieLawton.comBlog #3: www.chasingemptypavements.com
Blog #4: http://lisaswallow.net
Blog #5: http://maravalderran.blogspot.com
Blog #6: http://www.lgcastillo.com
Blog #7: http://naughtylittlekisses.blogspot.com
Blog #8: http://danielelanzarotta.blogspot.com/
Blog #9: http://authoryolandaallen.blogspot.com/
Blog #10: http://dawnaraver.com/
Blog #11: http://tawdrakandle.com
Blog #12: http://midtown-underground.com
Blog #13: http://tyffanickemp.com
Blog #14: www.KristieCook.com
Blog #15: www.jlfynn.com
Blog #16: www.lisasanchezromanceauthor.com
Blog #17: www.adriannejames.com
Blog #18: http://jadenwilkes.blogspot.ca/
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Review: Communion by B. Patterson

Today I am reviewing Communion, a Young Adult Urban Fantasy book by B. Patterson. (Spoiler alert for the review: I loved the book! It was amazing!) You can find more on B. Patterson on his blog, or you can follow him on Facebook or Twitter. 


About the Author:
B. Patterson is a 25 year old writer and a graduate of North Carolina State University,  where he majored in Psychology and minored in Japanese.  He currently live in Maryland.
B. Patterson wrote a lot as a kid.  He began a new story (or 3 or 4) every school year, but rarely finished them. He finally finished one when he was 16.  It was about ninjas.  It was really bad.
Communion, his first completed novel worth publishing in his eyes, will be released October 1st. He has that and many other works coming down the pipeline.  He plans to be writing for many years to come.  
B. Patterson's values as a writer include:
Writing high-quality books
Diversity
Integrity
Entertainment



About the Book:
Lester Fuller knows isolation well.  It has been his only friend since Jadarius Singleton humiliated him last year. But one night after Jadarius's taunts go too far, Lester stumbles upon Gwynn's body.  He's sure she's dead.  Until she bites him.
Vampires are extinct.  There are only the dhampir.
Now something more than human, Lester struggles to determine where he fits in this new society.  Just what secrets about the dhampir are his friends keeping from him?  And what will he do when a notorious figure from dhampir history sets her eyes on him?




My Review:
I love everything about this book, from the main character Lester's voice as he narrates to the twists and turns along the way and the surprise ending.

Usually, in vampire books, you have a main character who is eventually going to be faced with a choice of whether or not to become a vampire. But in Communion, B. Patterson starts Lester's journey with a bang. When he gets attacked and turned, he discovers a whole new world. Vampires are extinct, but dhampir still exist--which are sort of in between humans and vampires--and now he has the choice to become one of them.

Lester isn't the typical main character, for many reasons. First, it is refreshing to have a first person narrative from a teenage guy's POV. I have to say that most of the books I read have female POVs, so it is nice to have a change. And a good one at that. But also, Lester is a believable outcast. He has issues, but never ventures into melodramatic or emo territory. And even though he is bullied, I never viewed him as weak or a victim. He was strong in his own ways, and showed that by how he stood up to the bully, even when he knew it would mean getting his ass kicked.

What also sets Lester apart from typical main characters is that his journey is anything but simple and stereotypical. Lester is faced with some tough decisions, and makes some hard choices along the way. My heart breaks for some of the things he is forced to do to keep the people he loves safe. Usually, we see the hero of the story built up through the trials and tribulations they face. With Lester, we see him constantly broken down by the choices he is faced with. But then an amazing thing happens that makes me root for him even more: He gets back up. Over and over.

B. Patterson did an amazing job of taking something so common (vampires) with the usual plot points played over and over and over again, and turning it into something unique that he can call his own. Not only is the concept different from what I've seen, but the actions the main character takes along the way are also so different from the norm. I never knew what to expect with this book. Just when you think you know who the bad guy is and what the stakes are that the dhampir are up against, the plot takes a completely different turn and you are thrown for a loop.

Great writing, compelling and unpredictable story full of twists and surprises, and a main character that I can sympathize with and really truly like. Needless to say, I'm looking forward to what is ahead not only for Lester and the dhampir, but I can't wait to see what else the incredibly talented B. Patterson does.

Blog Tour: Excerpts from The Neiko Adventure Saga Adventure by A.K. Taylor

Today I have not one, but TWO excerpts from A.K. Taylor's The Neiko Adventure Saga! Before the excerpts, I'm going to let you guys read a bit about the books and get to know the author, A.K. Taylor. Want to know where you can find them? In short: Everywhere!
Autographed Kindle and Paperback Amazon Paperback Kindle My Book Orders Nook Amazon UK Sony Ebooks.com Kobo iBookstore

Neiko's Five Land Adventure
The Neiko Adventure Saga
Book One
The Indians and the Crackedskulls are locked in the turmoil of war.
Neiko – a warrior with the glistening title of “the Chosen One” – finds herself facing a collection of enemies. Her archenemies, Raven and Bloodhawk, have come up with a scheme to destroy her reputation with the help of a phony Indian chieftain.
However, during the unfolding of their plan, Neiko finds out that a land she thought she had only imagined is actually real - and more terrifying than she ever imagined. It turns out that Ramses - the arch-villain of her collection - has sinister plans of his own for Neiko, whom he eventually traps in Qari.
Neiko must find her way back home and turn the tables on her enemies, but what she finds out during her travels in Qari will change her entire existence for all eternity. 


About the Author: A.K. Taylor grew up in the backwoods of Georgia where she learned about nature. She enjoys hunting and fishing, beekeeping, gardening, archery, shooting, hiking, and has various collections. She also has interest in music, Native American history and heritage, Egyptian history, and the natural sciences. A.K. Taylor has been writing and drawing since the age of 16. A.K. Taylor has graduated from the University of Georgia with a biology degree, and she shares an interest in herpetology with her husband.Twitter Facebook Profile Fanpage Goodreads Blog/Website New Author Education Blog Amazon Librarything Google+


After her eyes adjusted to the glare, the two friends could see there was a cavern that was full of perfect crystals. They were in all shapes, sizes, and colors and they came out of the walls, floor, and ceiling. The beauty was spellbinding. “Wow! If I found this in Hawote, then I’d be rich! This is a rock collector’s dream come true!”
“Yeah, but didn’t you say that there were writings about Ramses somewhere in here? I wonder where the ruins of Shadazar are,” Quickstrike rambled.
“Somewhere in here, I guess, and I think we’re close. Let’s keep walking and look at the walls. If there are any branch-offs, then we’ll split up. If you find anything, then come looking.”
“Actually, I’d rather stick together, so we won’t get separated.”
“Good idea, well, I like that idea better too,” she said as they journeyed deep into the caverns. They walked and looked at the walls, but all they found were arrangements and shapes created by crystal; they gleamed and sparkled when the light hit them like multicolored diamonds. Luckily for them, there were no branch-offs, and the caverns appeared as if they were carved into the crystal. New formations were growing in the hewn walls.
Neiko found several broken pieces on the cavern floor; she picked them up and slipped them into her pocket.
“Look, there’s an exit up ahead,” said Quickstrike as he saw a break in the glamour and a darkened cave. As they entered the door, darkness overtook them and there were ruins just ahead. “We found what’s left of ancient Shadazar!”
 “Yeah, and we have an underground lake to cross. I wonder what’s on the other side.”
“I dunno, but I’ve noticed the further we go in, the further we go back in time, so that could mean the writings are probably after the lake. How do we get across?”
“There’s a boat right there.” They climbed into the boat, and Neiko got the oars and began to paddle while Quickstrike carried the torch. They could see broken columns and the remains of a bridge that possibly was a shortcut long ago towering over them. She kept paddling, and then they saw a waterfall just ahead. Neiko paddled around it and parked the boat on the bank of the hidden cavern. When they entered the hallway, there were pictures and writings. “Neiko, look! We found it!”
“Hmm,” she said as she looked at the letters which were surprisingly in the alphabet of her tribe.
“Well, it’s written in English, but it is written in the alphabet of my tribe. This will be easy for me to translate.”
“That’s good. So, what does it say?”
Neiko looked at the battling figures and the dark, shadowy form of the Dark Pharaoh fighting and slaying them. She ran her finger under the letters as she read. “This is talking about something called the Good Pharaohs. It says that God created powerful beings called Pharaohs to protect the universe from evil.
Escape from Ancient Egypt
The Neiko Adventure Saga
Book Two

Seeking his revenge on Neiko for exposing him, Francesco banishes Neiko into ancient Egypt just like he did her friends eleven years ago. During her stay there, she unravels the mystery of what happened to her four friends. Now she’s faced with a bigger problem—how to get home. After a series of unfortunate events, Neiko is now entangled with Pharaoh Ramesses II. Francesco also comes to make sure their fates are sealed. Can Neiko and her friends beat impossible odds and return to Hawote and back to the present? 

Neiko’s vision turned from the green light to the world spinning around her in dizzying speed. Neiko wasn’t moving, but she felt like she was in freefall—like someone had cut the cable from an elevator and she was plummeting with it. Descending in what—space and time? The evergreen and colorful deciduous vegetation of the Hawote woodlands changed to a desert with a river with some greenery and palms nearby. The cool autumn air of Hawote in October transformed into stifling, searing, dry heat. Pyramids, sphinxes, and strange statues spun around her after her house, porch, and front yard disappeared within the vortex. It was nighttime in Hawote, but the sun rose and set as time flew by—from west to east--backwards. Beneath her bare feet the wood from her front porch turned to nothing then into hot, soft sand. Neiko’s world stopped spinning, and the sun was high in the sky. Neiko watched the sun to be sure it didn’t move again. Wherever she ended up, she guessed the time must be about high noon there judging by the sun’s position in the sky after a few moments of observation. The heat was intense, and she discovered she must be somewhere far from home. “Where?” was the ultimate question. A gust of wind blew the feathers in her long, black hair. Her hair wrapped around her face, and she brushed it back. Sweat beaded out on her body, and she tugged at her shirt and headband. “Phew! It’s hot out here! Where am I--Death Valley?” she asked. Death Valley was the only desert place she thought of off the top of her head. She had never been there, but she’d read and watched TV programs about the place. She looked around, and a city was only a few feet away. She could see the buildings down below from the high dune where she stood. She took a deep breath and fingered the fringed sheath of her knife to reassure her confidence—without thinking and by instinct. Then after a few more seconds, she trudged down to the city in the soft sand from the dune to go find some answers. Neiko entered the city still dressed in her buckskin, decorated warrior clothes and painted for war. As she took in the sights and from the confusion, she had forgotten she was armed. Her machete was sheathed to her back, and so was her knife on her side. Incense, perfumes, and music filled the air. She didn’t recognize any of the smells, but the music seemed to be like Egyptian reenactments in movies. The buildings were white alabaster covered in brilliant wall paintings. Some men rode on camels like horses and others led them by a leash. Chariots cantered by. Neiko looked around in amazement. This ruled out Death Valley, Arizona. Neiko lifted her eyes to the sun to get a bearing on north. North was as good of a direction as any to begin a search for answers. After her eyes fell from the sun and to the north, she could see the Pyramids of Giza towering in the distance. She recognized them instantly. She had seen enough pictures and documentaries on the monuments—they were unmistakable. Even though they were miles away, they towered above the city and in view. This definitely wasn’t Death Valley. In that case I can get on the first flight home, she thought. She believed that she had landed in Cairo. This city came to mind because it's the only one close to the Pyramids of Giza. Then she realized she didn’t have any money as she put her hands in the pockets of her buckskin shorts and only felt the house key. She had left her wallet in the car back at home when she left from Phoenix’s house after the battle.  “Well, I can probably make up some story that I was abducted or something—which is sort of true. Really funny, Francesco. I guess you meant no way back since I’m broke. I’ll hitchhike back to Hawote if I have to. I’ll scrounge around to see if I can find some change for a pay phone on the road,” she remarked to herself, and maybe the phone book would have some information on where to find an airport or something. But, then again, would the phonebook be written in English or Arabic? It was a chance she had to take. The worst that could happen was not getting anywhere. Neiko began walking to find help, change, a pay phone, the U.S. Embassy, an airport, or whatever she could find first. After a few more minutes of exploring, she recognized the clothing of the people: white linen kilts, some wore robes and fine jewelry, some wore headcloths while others did not. No one seemed to be dressed like the Arab residents of 21st century Egypt. “Why is everyone dressed like ancient Egyptians?” she asked herself. She wondered if this was some sort of a cult or a weird secret society that lived like the Amish in Cairo. A small group of armed soldiers marched in front of her, but they didn’t pay any attention to her. They carried swords, shields, spears, and were dressed in ancient Egyptian armor. She had seen it in books and movies. They weren’t carrying guns or dressed in desert camouflage BDUs like Egyptian soldiers of the 21st century. She headed farther in to the marketplace. It was obvious since people had shops and bazaars selling goods. People were yelling and haggling. People thrust things at Neiko trying to entice her to buy. Neiko put up her hands and shook her head. She couldn’t understand a word anyone was saying. Funny, no one seemed to be selling T-shirts, souvenirs, or that type stuff for tourists. Quite frankly, no one seemed to be selling any maps. Neiko walked up to a man who was a merchant at a bazaar. He was selling all manner of fine jewelry. Heavy collars, bracelets, necklaces, arm pieces, earrings were on display. All gaudy like the ancient Egyptians liked. “Excuse me, can you tell me where I am? I seem to be lost. Do you know where I can find a map or where the airport is? A phone?” she asked as she made her hand like a phone and put it to her ear; her thumb the earpiece and her pinkie the mouthpiece. The man looked at her startled because of her strange appearance and because he couldn’t understand her. He was dressed in linen like everyone else and sported some of that same Egyptian bling since he was a successful jeweler. “That’s a little out of style, don’t you think? I mean, guys don’t wear eyeliner…and, that skirt and that sheet on your head are not how people dress nowadays. People dress like ancient Egyptians only on Halloween. Last I checked it was still three weeks away,” Neiko said to the man as she shook her head.

What's Up Wednesday

What’s Up Wednesday is a weekly meme geared toward readers and writers, allowing us to touch base with blog friends and let them know what’s up. Should you wish to join us, you will find the link widget at the bottom of Jaime’s post. We really hope you will take part!


I've seen this over on Stephanie Allen's blog several times, and keep telling myself I am going to take part. But then I never do. Well, today that changes! Today, I remember that my blog is not only for spreading awesome books around, but for keeping in touch with my readers and friends. So, here goes!


What I'm Reading:
I'm on chapter ten of Communion by B. Patterson for the blog tour by Bewitching Blog Tours. I'm completely hooked. His vampires, the dhampir, are so fascinating and such a fresh take for me. It has been a while since I've read a book narrated from a male MC, but Lester is just so likeable and different from other male MCs I've seen. After I finish up Communion, I'll be reading Actuator: Fractured Earth by James Wymore and Aiden James and The Curse of Malenfer Manor by Iain McChesney.

What I'm Writing:
I'm still chugging along with Altar of Reality . I'm on the final chapters, so I should wrap that up soon. Right now it is sitting at 56k, so it is definitely going to be shorter than I am used to. I think there is definitely a sequel or two ahead for it.

What Inspires Me Right Now
I've been watching Revolution to try to get into a survivalist mindset with Altar of Reality. I'm really inspired by my sister, who is finally sitting down and writing one of her awesome ideas. We were bouncing ideas off each other today, and it was just plain thrilling.
My family has been very inspiring lately. They threw me an amazing release party this past Saturday night, complete with a countdown until midnight and balloons dropping--the whole she-bang. It was awesome, and I am so incredibly lucky to have such an awesome support system behind me.

What Else I'm Up To
I gave up my part time job so I can devote more time and brain power to writing. I hope to have three books written and ready for the editor by January, when I go back to school.
I just released Heirs of War and have been obsessively checking Amazon sales. Luckily, Smashwords only gets reports every quarter or so from its distributors, so I can't do that with anyone else. I've sold 6 books through Amazon, though. Yay!
The hubby and I are trying to come up with cool and unique Halloween costumes since we decided to throw a party this year. I'll keep you guys updated on the progress. =)

And that's it for me today. What have you guys been up to?

New Adult Author Spotlight & Giveaway: Becca Lee Nyx

Swept Blurb:College is supposed to be a magical experience, a time of self-exploration and discovery. For Crystal and her friends, Ryan and Kelly, this couldn't be closer to the truth. Crystal, the geeky girl on a scholarship, Ryan, the rich entitled kid who feels he is misunderstood, and Kelly who is looking for love in all the wrong places... 

These three friends will take you on an exciting trip as they encounter situations they never dreamed possible. Mystery men, betrayal, relationships, and steamy sex. All this and more await you in this first book of a trilogy by Becca Lee Nyx.




Author Bio:A Native American from Oklahoma, Becca Lee Nyx has been obsessed with writing since she was a child. Becca is married to her long lost childhood friend from England after meeting back up with him when they were both in high school. Now with two children, a boy of 5 and a girl of 2, Becca has decided to retire from running a home day care to do the thing she loves; writing. Her first two books "Swept” and “Secrets” are two of a Saga; with the next two books coming soon. When she is not writing, Becca is studying her college subjects, crocheting, working out at the gym, cruising the internet, or reading a good book.


To enter the giveaway, go to each blog and enter the corresponding code into the Rafflecopter!

This is Blog #5 and the code is: BECCAMARA

Blog #1: www.dawnpendleton.com Blog #2: www.StephanieLawton.com
Blog #3: www.chasingemptypavements.com
Blog #4: http://lisaswallow.net
Blog #5: http://maravalderran.blogspot.com
Blog #6: http://www.lgcastillo.com
Blog #7: http://naughtylittlekisses.blogspot.com
Blog #8: http://danielelanzarotta.blogspot.com/
Blog #9: http://authoryolandaallen.blogspot.com/
Blog #10: http://dawnaraver.com/
Blog #11: http://tawdrakandle.com
Blog #12: http://midtown-underground.com
Blog #13: http://tyffanickemp.com
Blog #14: www.KristieCook.com
Blog #15: www.jlfynn.com
Blog #16: www.lisasanchezromanceauthor.com
Blog #17: www.adriannejames.com
Blog #18: http://jadenwilkes.blogspot.ca/
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Guest Post & Giveaway: Dora Machado on Why We Write

With all the craziness that can come along with the writing business (and the crazy business of the voices in our heads that we bring to life on paper), people tend to scratch their heads and wonder why on earth we put ourselves through this. Here to answer that question is Dora Machado, author of The Curse Giver. 

Top Ten Reasons Why I Love My Writing GigBy Dora MachadoPeople are always asking me why I write. The truest answer has something to do with the fact that I can't stop writing. But I love what I do, and just in case the benefits of my chosen profession aren't obvious to the rest of the world, here are the top ten reasons why I absolutely love my writing gig:10.  My daily commute entails a thirty-second shuffle from bed to desk.9.  It's nine p.m. to five a.m. and I like it that way.8.  My supervisor is a cat.7. I can spend hours surfing the Internet, learning about ancient curses, medieval remedies, magical spells, curse givers and mythological goddesses, and nobody gives me grief about it.6. The water cooler is out back. If I really need cooling, I swim in it.5. I get to daydream and that's okay. My third grade teacher was so wrong about daydreaming!4. Business casual = yoga pants. Casual Friday may occasionally involve flannel pajamas.3.  I have to read a lot to write a lot. Well, if someone must make the tough sacrifices….2.  During work hours, I live in my own world. Literally.1. I get to share my work, life and passion with amazing readers like you.
Lusielle's bleak but orderly life as a remedy mixer is shattered when her husband betrays her and she is sentenced to die for a crime she didn't commit. She's on the pyre, about to be burned, when a stranger breaks through the crowd and rescues her from the flames.
Brennus, Lord of Laonia is the last of his line. He is caught in the grip of a mysterious curse that has murdered his kin, doomed his people and embittered his life. To defeat the curse, he must hunt a birthmark and kill the woman who bears it in the foulest of ways. Lusielle bears such a mark.
Stalked by intrigue and confounded by the forbidden passion flaring between them, predator and prey must come together to defeat not only the vile curse, but also the curse giver who has already conjured their ends.  

Amazon  BN  All Romance eBooks

About the Author
Dora Machado is the award winning author of the epic fantasy Stonewiser series and her newest novel, The Curse Giver, available from Twilight Times Books July 2013. She grew up in the Dominican Republic, where she developed a fascination for writing and a taste for Merengue. After a lifetime of straddling such compelling but different worlds, fantasy is a natural fit to her stories. She lives in Florida with her husband and three very opinionated cats.
To learn more about Dora Machado and her novels, visit her website at www.doramachado.com, follow her on Twitter, Facebook, and her blog.  




Subscribe to Dora Machado's blog and/or newsletter and enter for a chance to win:1) One of three autographed books of Dora Machado's Stonewiser Series.Or2) One of ten special edition bracelets commemorating The Curse Giver's EBook release. Yes, you double your chances when you subscribe to both the blog and the newsletter! This handcrafted, customized, limited-edition, 1/4 inch aluminum bracelet from Silver Statements is hammered and stamped with The Curse Giver's signature message—Knowledge, Reason and Awareness, and flanked by the stylized outline of butterfly wings. Inside, the bracelet is stamped with the word Strength. Aluminum is a great metal for jewelry. It won't turn your skin green, doesn't oxidize or tarnish, and its water safe. Plus it's so lightweight that you might even forget you're wearing it.
Giveaway Terms and Condition:New subscribers to the blog and/or newsletter will automatically qualify to participate. Names will be selected at random from the list of new subscribers on November 15, 2013. Subscribers will be notified via e-mail. Winners will be asked to provide a mailing address for delivery.

Blog Tour: Rogue's Possession by Jeffe Kennedy

About the Author:
Jeffe Kennedy is an award-winning author with a writing career that spans decades. Her fantasy BDSM romance, Petals and Thorns, originally published under the pen name Jennifer Paris, has won several reader awards. Sapphire, the first book in Facets of Passion has placed first in multiple romance contests and the follow-up, Platinum, is climbing the charts. Her most recent works include three fiction series: the fantasy romance novels of A Covenant of Thorns, the contemporary BDSM novellas of the Facets of Passion, and the post-apocalyptic vampire erotica of the Blood Currency.  Jeffe lives in Santa Fe, with two Maine coon cats, a border collie, plentiful free-range lizards and a Doctor of Oriental Medicine. Jeffe can be found online at her website: JeffeKennedy.com or every Sunday at the popular Word Whores blog.
She is represented by Pam van Hylckama Vlieg of Foreword Literary.
http://www.jeffekennedy.com/
http://www.jeffekennedy.com/category/blog/
https://www.facebook.com/jeffe.kennedy
https://twitter.com/jeffekennedy

Rogue’s PossessionCovenant of Thorns SeriesBook Two
A human trapped in the world of Faerie, in possession of magic I could not control, I made a bargain for my life: to let the dangerously sensual fae noble known as Rogue sire my firstborn. And one does not break an oath with a fae. But no matter how greatly I desire him, I will not succumb. Not until I know what will happen to the child.
Though unable-or unwilling-to reveal the fate of human-fae offspring himself, Rogue accompanies me on my quest for answers. Along the way he agrees to teach me to harness my power, in exchange for a single kiss each day and sleeping by my side each night. Just as I am about to yield to temptation, I find myself in a deadly game of cat and mouse with an insane goddess. Now my search for the truth will lead me to the darkest of all Faerie secrets.
Available at Barnes & Noble and Amazon.

Blog Tour: Excerpt & Giveaway for Rivulet by Jamie Magee

Follow the tour here!
Rivulet by Jamie Magee
Expected publication: October 7, 2013

Unfathomable forces have always contested Genevieve Indiana Falcon, known as Indie. The curse of her cold touch entraps her just as the grief ignited in her past torments her. Yet, her mysterious ability to dream while awake saturates her in the belief that she was not always anguished. There is hope that one day a true peace in her soul can be found. 
Foolishly, Indie assumes she has contained her life in an odd balance, and she cherishes the visions she sees of the enigmatic boy that held her in a lost time, but can never reach. She grieves for a life she fears she'll never possess, and that grief is a weapon she uses against her aunt who stands between her and her inheritance. 
Weeks away from her twenty-first birthday, the date where she would assume control over her family legacy, a night terror robs Indie of the balance she was clinging to. Like the dream she had before she lost her family, it predicts a fatal catastrophe on the horizon. The fight between life and death, good and evil, began the moment her thundering heart awoke her. 
Everything changed after that dream. The one thing that keeps her curse at bay is stolen, and then the enigmatic boy arrives in the flesh. Face to face with her fiery born-again lover Indie realizes that the only way she can prevent the tragedy before her is to surrender everything she was, is, and could be. 
Can she bend the laws of nature and fight the improbability that fire and ice could ever be one? As far as Indie is concerned, there is not a myth, spoken fate, or curse that is stronger than her stubborn desire to have it all ... including him.

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About Jamie

Jamie Magee has always believed that each of us have a defining gift that sets us apart from the rest of the world, she has always envied those who have known from their first breath what their gift was. Not knowing hers, she began a career in the fast paced world of business. Raising a young family, and competing to rise higher in that field would drive some to the point of insanity, but she always found a moment of escape in a passing daydream. Her imagination would take her to places she’d never been, introduce her to people she’s never known. Insight, her debuting novel, is a result of that powerful imagination. Today, she is grateful that not knowing what defined her, led her on a path of discovery that would always be a part of her.

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter 
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GIVEAWAY
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Second Giveaway:

One random commenter will win an eCopy of Rivulet! To enter comment here with your preferred ebook format and a way for us to contact you.

Hosted by GCRPromotionsExcerpt:
Once the glass hit the bar, Wilder took it away. His blue eyes met mine for the first time in months. “What’s going on, D?” he whispered. When I didn’t answer, he urged me back into the hall that was out of the common view of the shop. I didn’t want to look up at him. I didn’t think I could handle it. He pulled my chin up as a gasp of fog that reeked of whiskey seeped from my lips.“You’re cold…and getting colder by the second,” he murmured, looking into my eyes.I took in a deep breath, smelling the rich scent of lilies that always seemed to linger oddly close to his skin.“I told you I was cold hearted. Tell me you remember that.” Instantly, he had my arms pinned over my head. “And I told you I didn’t care how cold you were.” He breathed against my neck, which made the entire hall turn to ice for an instant. “When are you going to get off this stage and let me see the real D?” Wilder always had to be different. The ‘in’ before the ‘d’ in my nickname was just too much for him to say.One glance to his arm revealed a jagged gash. “What did you do to your arm?” I gasped as I averted my gaze, regretting those shots I took. If I was going insane, I wanted to be sober when that happened.“Slipped on the snow, glass was on the ground.” I broke free from him and crossed my arms. This was shaping up to be one of the weirdest days of my life. How could one dream predict two different wounds on my friends?

Curiosity Quills Gives Back with New Anthology

Curiosity Quills just released two new anthologies, Primetime and After Dark, and are donating ten percent of the proceeds to select "no-kill" humane societies on the East and West coasts. So not only do you get to read some amazing short stories from authors like James Wymore, Mike Robinson, Sharon Bayliss, and Eliza Tilton (all of whom I have featured on this blog--no bias or anything =D ), but you get to help a great cause by giving to our furry friends in need. I am a big supporter of no-kill humane societies. I got my cat, Sweetie, from one almost ten years ago.

Here's a bit about the books, the stories in them, and where you can purchase them:

And Death Shall Have No Dominion – K.H. Koehler
Sometimes dead really is better… but not always attainable. A Nick Englebrecht short.

Cyber Cowboy – James Wymore
An accountant, separated from the woman he loves, must decide if he has what it takes to save her from the horrible fate dealt when the Actuator turns her half of the city into a post-apocalyptic wasteland.

Dark Orb – Tony Healey
It’s 1985 and young George is going to encounter some of the darkness that people face in their lives, and come to understand how they manage to live with it… if they are able to.

Ephemera – Gerilyn Marin
While touring a house for signs of a paranormal activity, amateur psychic consultant Giselle Boudreaux has a frightening encounter unlike anything she’s experienced before.

The Fridge – J.R. Rain
A man buys a top-of-the-line kitchen appliance and watches, horrified, how it quickly puts his life on ice. But when he wins and manages to put himself out of its reach by what most would call spectacularly losing, the FRIDGE has the last laugh.

Ghost Placers – Nina Post
When the owner of a ghost relocation service gets the chance to land a lucrative contract that would change his life forever, he must decide if achieving the success he’s always dreamed of is really worth the cost.

Gothic Gwen – A.W. Exley
It’s not the constant taunts from the other kids driving sixteen year old Gwen bat shit crazy, but the white hot pain spiking through her brain. Seeking refuge in her small sanctuary, she wants to know why, just for once, can’t the cosmos cut a girl some slack?

How I Killed the Drama – Mike Robinson
A traveling salesman, staying overnight in an out-of-the-way hotel, stumbles upon the astonishing secret of humankind’s every teardrop and every turmoil, and resolves to take advantage.

Mad Science – Sharon Bayliss
Nothing can stand in the way of Heather marrying her true love. Even her fiancee’s death. Both love and science are best when done madly…

On the Rocks – William Vitka
In the quest for Earth’s resources, there is space…and there is madness in the black.

Razor Child – Michael Shean
In a society so glittering, it feels like shards of ice cutting through tender skin, there arises a Mother that feeds Her Razor children enough of a pap of truth and lies to make them do anything with a madman’s smile. Literally anything.

Sinergy – A.E. Propher & Grace Eyre
Antoine DeLongville, once a high-ranking member of the Catholic Church, flees from the secretive Order after he discovers their plot to target the only woman he’s ever loved. His journey is marked with both extreme danger and remarkable fortune, as if unseen forces are waging a war over his fate.

Tell Us Everything – Randy Attwood
Goth girl connects her piercings to perceive the truths around her and starts broadcasting the news.

The Caw – Eliza Tilton
Lena’s plan is to spend one perfect night with Johnny Ridge; regardless if it’s in a creepy cemetery, but as the night twists, and her best friend disappears, Lena discovers some things are more terrifying than the dead.

The Damned and the Dangerous – Michael Panush
La Cruz looks like an average Southern California small town, but it has some dark secrets – and it has its guardians. They are the supernaturally adept drivers of Donovan Motors, including zombie greaser Roscoe, who stand between La Cruz and chaos with only their wits and some fast hot rods to help them.

The Last Carnivale – Vicki Keire
Roaming the forbidden surface of her burnt and twisted world, the princess of ash and cinders finds hope one day too late.

The Milgram Battery – Matthew Graybosch
Obedience isn’t always a virtue, and defiance isn’t always a sin.

The Notebook – Randy Attwood
College professor returns to his student apartment to see if a notebook he left in the attic is still there; some truths are better left untold.

The Pearl – Rand B. Lee
Fantasy lovers are inexorably drawn to the borderlands of consensus reality. In this story, Rand B. Lee explores the twilight realm between death and afterlife from the viewpoint of one of society’s most despised castoffs.

Trevor – Nathan Yocum
Cargo Specialist Trevor Ponsi wakes up for his shift–just like any other day. Oddly enough, the crew has vanished, the vessel is wildly off-course, and the ship’s AI insists on holding Trevor hostage until he can win a round of tic-tac-toe. What exactly happened while he was asleep?
Find Curiosity Quills: Primetime online:
Official Primetime Page GoodreadsAmazon USAmazon UKBarnes and NobleKobo
Primetime’s steamier counterpart, Curiosity Quills: After Dark, is where bestselling authors like A.W. Exley, Nathan L. Yocum, Jose Prendes, Jade Hart, and more come together to bring you hard-hitting, sexy, violent, and dark short stories to read when the sun has gone down and the kids are in bed.

Just like its twin, 10% of every purchase will go straight to animals in need. The CQ team has selected humane societies on both the East and West coast that spend well and do not stray from their “no-kill” policies.

  Included Short Stories:

Mirror Amour - Jade Hart
When a sex circus plants itself unapologetically in the middle of her busy life, a young microbiologist finds herself tumbling headlong into a night of unbridled sensuality that takes her straight to a fork in the road that will forever shred her comfy boring world.

Pop Star Fist Fight - Jose Prendes
A handful of midgets. Two starlets. One shot at a title of the Queen of Pop. Fame Fucking Hurts.

Precious Blood - Gerilyn Marin
Weary of her existence as a vampire, Annalese seeks the truth to a legend which says she may live again if she consumes the blood of a fallen angel. Misunderstandings, and a not necessarily willing Fallen One, bring about an unforeseen turn of events.

The Quark Machine - Nathan Yocum
Professor Northwip invents an AI computer that can self-replicate on a nano-scale. His exploration of infinitely small realities is cut short when he suddenly wakes up naked on an island with no memories of how he got there. What perilous dangers has Professor Northwip unleashed? Who fears the true nature of the Quark Machine?

The Quarry - A W Exley
Jema Johnson delivers a pounding in the court room, but it's the pounding at the base of her skull draining her spirit and sanity, until a one night encounter in a club offers far more than a headache cure.

When Pigs Fly - A.E. Propher
A mother writes a farewell letter to her adopted son before being shipped off to a concentration camp for those inflicted with HVV, Human Vampirism VirusFind Curiosity Quills: After Dark online: Official After Dark page Goodreads Amazon US Amazon UK Barnes and Noble Kobo