Margo Bond Collins's Blog, page 139
February 21, 2014
Spotlight: Courting Darkness by Melynda Price
Courting Darkness – Week Blitz
By Melynda Price
Paranormal Romance
Date Published: 1/23/14
Add to Goodreads
She’s captured the hearts of Heaven and Hell…
Betrayed by her true love, Olivia cannot let go of the angel her mind doesn’t remember, but her heart refuses to forget. In an attempt to reclaim her broken life, she is determined to unearth her past, but some secrets are better left buried.
To save her life, he sacrificed everything. Universal Law was broken when Liam violated Olivia’s free will. His guardianship has been revoked, and the pain of letting her go is nothing compared to the torture of enduring their shattered bond. He can no longer sense her, no longer feel her, and the enemy he risked it all to save her from, now has free reign to claim her for his own. To get her back, Liam must turn away from all he is, all he was, for the one thing he may have already lost forever—Olivia’s love.
Haden will stop at nothing to possess Immanuel’s Stone, and locked away in Olivia’s memories is the key he needs to find it. But in his quest for vengeance, he never expected to lose his heart to the enchanting green-eyed beauty. Forced to choose between love and revenge, Haden is captivated by a woman who will never be his…or will she?
EXCERPT
Before Olivia’s feet could touch the pavement, Haden’s hand was on her arm–his grip firm and unrelenting. It was difficult to imagine his touch being otherwise, yet only a score of minutes ago, he’d held her with a gentleness she’d thought him incapable of.
Looking at him now, wearing that standard-issue scowl, the impassive arrogant glint in those sea green eyes, she’d swear this wasn’t the same man. And therein lay the problem… She thought of him as such when the truth was, Haden wasn’t a man at all. Sure, he shared some of the same Homo sapien genetics, but he was so much more. And the minute she let her guard down and forgot that, was the moment she’d surely die.
***
Grinding his arousal against her backside, he growled, “I should take you right now for that little stunt. Haul that cush ass of yours into the back seat and finish this!”
It was a threat Olivia knew he could easily carry out. At her shameful, breath-hitching sob, Haden hissed a curse. His biting grip on her neck eased a touch. “Do you think that I want to want you, Olivia?”
She hoped his question was rhetorical because she couldn’t speak past the lump in her throat.
“Do you think this is some game you can outplay, outwit and outlast me? It’s not Survivor! I am ancient, Olivia, old as fucking Noah and his Ark. I’ve spent lifetimes hunting and killing the Sighted. Do not tempt me again, or I swear to God I’ll finish what you started.”
Other Books in Series
Until Darkness Comes – Book 1 | Goodreads
Shades of Darkness Book 2 - Goodreads
Melynda Price :
An avid lover of paranormal romance, Melynda was inspired to write the Redemption Series after reading the Book of Enoch. She’s always had a fascination with stories about angels, and the role they’ve played in the history of our multi-dimensional world.
She attended Bethel University in Minnesota holding AA, ASN and BSN degrees, but her true love is creative writing and story-telling.
She lives in Northern Minnesota where she has plenty of snow-filled days to curl up in front of the fireplace with her Chihuahua, and a hot cup of coffee, to write. She’s blessed with two amazing children, and a wonderful husband of nineteen years.
Redemption Series:
“Writing the Redemption Series has been a fantastic adventure, culminating a world of mystery, suspense, love and deception. Have you ever wondered what it might be like to see beyond our dimension? Step into Olivia Norton’s world, where nothing is quite as it seems, and evil lurks where she least expects it.”
Visit Melynda at www.MelyndaPrice.com
Author Links
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Email: Melynda@MelyndaPrice.com
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Buy Links
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This Blitz is brought to to you by Reading Addiction Book Tours
Spotlight On: Bruce Borders, author of Over My Dead Body
Welcome today to Rave Reviews Book Club Spotlight Author – Bruce A. Borders. Check out his guest post and interview below!
First, thank you to Rave Reviews Book Club for voting me this week’s Spotlight Author! And, a huge thanks to all the members who agreed to host me on their site!
My name is Bruce A. Borders, author of crime-fiction books. I guess you could call me a professional dreamer – or a schemer. Either one fits.
As a young boy, books always fascinated me. The stories they told were so captivating, so spellbinding. The further I got into a book, the more absorbed I became – and the more questions I had. I wanted to know the what, where, who, and when, of the entire story. But the question that most intrigued me was the “how.” I found it utterly fascinating how everything connected, how seemingly impossible situations were resolved, and especially how things always worked out. With the right explanation, even the strangest puzzle can make sense.
Eventually, I progressed to devising my own conundrums – and then solving them. Things like how to rob a bank, how to gain access to a high-security building or escape from one, or how to get away with murder. This was all hypothetical of course. I never actually wanted to do any of these things. The thrill was in figuring out how they could be done.
Obviously, none of the adults in my life were impressed by my newfound interest. Everyone seemed to agree this “daydreaming” would serve no useful purpose in life. One teacher even told me my pastime was dangerous and unhealthy; that anyone with this sort of mentality would probably end up being a criminal and doing time in prison.
For some people, his prediction could have been right; I can see how it could happen. And, I suppose I could have used his words of warning as an excuse to follow a crooked road to a life of crime. But, I didn’t. Instead, I became a writer.
Over My Dead Body
Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Over-My-Dead-Body-ebook/dp/B005N260Z4
Barnes & Noble http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/over-my-dead-body-bruce-a-borders/1105621591
Smashwords http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/114607
Sony Reader http://ebookstore.sony.com/ebook/bruce-a-borders/over-my-dead-body/
iTunes http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/over-my-dead-body/id464857750?mt=11
Kobo http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/Over-My-Dead-Body/book-4nYOrXCtVUaz8IDhXcQYIw/page1.html?s=bIkOjlpZzkmFGU3AyfF4wg&r=6
Connect with Bruce:
Twitter handle: @BruceABorders
Facebook address: http://www.facebook.com/BruceABordersBooks
Website address: http://bruceabordersbooks.weebly.com
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5752197.Bruce_A_Borders
RAVE REVIEWS BOOK CLUB is pleased to announce a new Facebook “Question of the Day!” In an online Scavenger Hunt, participants will need to find the daily answer SOMEWHERE on the many Blog Tour Host sites! Please LIKE our FB page and play along:
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Bruce’s questions & answers on THIS site:
1. RRBC: What inspires you to write?
B.B.: Good question! I’m always devising scenarios in my head, working out details of what seems impossible. Once I get started, I can’t wait to write them down – and then labor over them for months. I think my inspiration comes then, as a result of being driven to finish what I’ve started.
2. RRBC: What do you love most about writing?
B.B.: When the book is finally done and everything makes sense.
3. RRBC: What’s the most challenging part?
B.B.: Creating believable storylines and then communicating those through the characters.
4. RRBC: How do you craft your story & characters?
B.B.: I start with a rough idea in my head and just write. After the first draft, I go back and try to connect everything, flesh out the story, and further develop the characters. If I’m patient, the characters will reveal themselves – almost.
5. RRBC: How much research is involved?
B.B.: Depends on the book and genre. My action series is fairly limited in the amount of research required. For my crime fiction novels, I spend a lot of time looking up laws and judicial procedures.
6. RRBC: How long did it take from idea to finished book?
B.B.: Typically, four to six months.
7. RRBC: Do you have any writing rituals or habits?
B.B.: No rituals, but I do try to make writing every day a habit.
THANK YOU for stopping by! To read different posts, including excerpts from “Over My Dead Body,” please visit all Blog Tour Hosts as found on:
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February 20, 2014
Storm Without End by R. J. Blain
Storm Without End – Promo Blitz
By R.J. Blain
Epic Fantasy
Date Published: November 10, 2013
Kalen’s throne is his saddle, his crown is the dirt on his brow, and his right to rule is sealed in the blood that stains his hand. Few know the truth about the one-armed Rift King, and he prefers it that way. When people get too close to him, they either betray him or die. The Rift he rules cares nothing for the weak. More often than not, even the strong fail to survive.
When he’s abducted, his disappearance threatens to destroy his home, his people, and start a hopeless and bloody war. There are many who desire his death, and few who hope for his survival. With peace in the Six Kingdoms quickly crumbling, it falls on him to try to stop the conflict swiftly taking the entire continent by storm.
But something even more terrifying than the machinations of men has returned to the lands: The skreed. They haven’t been seen for a thousand years, and even the true power of the Rift King might not be enough to save his people — and the world — from destruction.
EXCERPT
“Be welcomed to the Spire of the Eternal, Breton, Guardian of the King. What do you seek?”
“Knowledge and advice,” he admitted, unable to stop from frowning. “Is Crysallis here?”
“My sister walks the world. I may be young, but perhaps I can help?” Asaleese cocked her head to the side. Without looking away from him, she reached up and threw back the hood of her cloak to reveal her short-cropped, black hair. “Come, and be as one of us for as long as you can.”
Breton shoved his hand in his pocket and pulled out the pouch he’d taken from the corpses on the plains. “Do you know of the outsiders?”
“I did know of them. You will be pleased, I think, to learn that their voices do not pollute the song of our ancestors. One remains, but flees up the trails in fear of the one who follows. I feel for their horses, wretched though they might be. I do not think he will find them worthy.”
“He?”
Instead of replying, the witch gestured for him to follow. Stairs circled the entry niche’s walls to vanish through a hole far above.
Breton swallowed back a sigh and began to climb. “I haven’t seen Crysallis in quite a while.”
“She wanders far,” Asaleese replied.
“It seems like a rather contagious disease. I don’t suppose you have a cure for it, do you?” Breton asked in a dry tone.
“You’ve been keeping company with Maiten again, haven’t you?”
“Not for half a year or more. He’s in Mithrias.”
“He’ll be disappointed to learn of all of the excitement he has missed, then.” Asaleese guided him to the next level and sprawled on a stone bench covered with pillows. A thick carpet of furs covered the stone, and another bench lined the far wall. “Sit. Be comfortable. A drink? Perhaps I can tempt you with some Hessis for when we’ve finished talking about what has brought you up here.”
“I might be tempted,” Breton admitted, flashing the witch a smile. “It may be a while until we cross paths again.”
“Then allow me to give you a fitting farewell until we meet again. I, for one, will miss your skill in the spearing caves.” Asaleese sighed. “Do try not to get yourself killed chasing after that foal of yours.”
“And here I thought you’d miss me for other reasons,” Breton replied, feigning disappointment.
“We’ll discuss this at length — later. Surely that pouch isn’t all that brought you up the Eternal Spire?” The witch held out her hand. Breton dropped the pouch into her palm and sat on the floor beside her.
“It did, in part. What’s in it?”
“You haven’t opened it?”
Breton shook his head. “They had poisoned their weapons.”
“What do you think is within?”
“The Three Sisters,” Breton replied with a cringe. “I was hoping it wasn’t.”
“You’re wise not to open it then.” Asaleese slipped a finger under the string tying the pouch closed and opened it. Three sachets fell out into the palm of her other hand. “It seems your guess may have been correct.” Setting two of the smaller pouches aside, she opened the third and dipped her finger in. She lightly touched the white powder to the tip of her tongue. “Vellest. It seems it is as you feared.”
RJ Blain suffers from a Moleskine journal obsession, a pen fixation, and a terrible tendency to pun without warning.When she isn’t playing pretend, she likes to think she’s a cartographer and a sumi-e painter. In reality, she herds cats and a husband. She also has a tendency to play MMOs and other computer games.
In her spare time, she daydreams about being a spy. Should that fail, her contingency plan involves tying her best of enemies to spinning wheels and quoting James Bond villains until she is satisfied.
Authors Links
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Buy Link
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This Blitz is brought to to you by Reading Addiction Book Tours
February 19, 2014
Spotlight On: Fighting for the Edge by Jennifer Comeaux
Fighting for the Edge (Edge #3)
by Jennifer Comeaux
Release Date: 11/05/13
Summary from Goodreads:
Two friends. Two dreams. One night that changes everything…
Ice dancer Aubrey London scoffs at romance. She’s focused on winning a medal at the upcoming Olympics and uses that as her excuse to avoid serious relationships. But when she and longtime friend Chris Grayden are thrown together by unforeseen circumstances, Aubrey finds herself questioning everything she’s ever known about love, complicating her life both on and off the ice.
Pairs skater Emily Petrov embraces romance. She and her husband Sergei still act like honeymooners two years after their wedding. As Emily’s coach, Sergei provides constant support while she prepares to challenge for gold at the Olympics. But Sergei’s support might not be enough to help Emily overcome the one challenge she never saw coming.
With the Games only weeks away, Emily and Aubrey are on the verge of realizing their dreams. But one snowy, stormy night sets in motion a series of events that will test them in ways they never imagined, giving them more to fight for than Olympic medals.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17315926-fighting-for-the-edge?from_search=true
__________________
Buy Links:
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
__________________
Links to books 1 & 2:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13163303-life-on-the-edge
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16055846-edge-of-the-past
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Praise for the Edge books: “Jennifer Comeaux puts you in the action, makes you smell the ice and hear the roar of the crowd during the nail-biting competitions, and she’s a master at creating first love jitters in your stomach from the steamy scenes that are so hot without being explicit.” – Christina Jean Michaels, author of Epiphany
“Both touching and suspenseful, Fighting for the Edge is a game changer that will have fans of the series giving both the characters and the author a standing ovation once they’ve turned the very last page. If I could pass out medals, Jennifer would earn gold for writing my favorite romance of all time.” – Jenna at Jenna Does Books
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About the Author
Jennifer Comeaux is a tax accountant by day, writer by night. There aren’t any ice rinks near her home in south Louisiana, but she’s a diehard figure skating fan and loves to write stories of romance set in the world of competitive skating. One of her favorite pastimes is travelling to competitions, where she can experience all the glitz and drama that inspire her writing. Jennifer loves to hear from readers! Visit jennifercomeaux.blogspot.com for contact information and to learn more about her books.
Author Links:
http://jennifercomeaux.blogspot.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5368434.Jennifer_Comeaux
http://www.twitter.com/LadyWave4
http://www.facebook.com/jennifercomeauxauthor
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Growing Pains box set by K.F. Breene
Title: Growing Pains (series)
Author: K.F. Breene
Genre: New Adult contemporary romance
On the tail-end of her ex-boyfriend crashing through a restraining order and
putting her in the hospital, Krista realizes that the only way to effectively
escape her past is to put distance between it. She gets her life back on track
in San Francisco with a job that has limitless potential.
Unfortunately, to achieve her dreams, she must brave the star of the company;
a charming and handsome salesman that isn’t used to the word no. Krista tries to
run from him at every turn, but his pull continually sucks her back in; her hesitancy
to trust the only thing saving her from being another notch on a bedpost.
Sean never has to try with women. He’s the type of guy to jump in with both
feet, get bored, and sprint right back out. But when a geeky new hire stumbles
through the company, befuddling him with a keen intellect he doesn’t expect, he
starts to lose his way. Before he knows it, all his efforts are concentrated
around trying to capture the interest of the only woman to run when he tries to
deliver a line. As she opens up, so does he, landing him in a terrain as
disconcerting as it is invigorating.
The growing pains box set is currently on sale for 99 cents on Amazon, for a limited time! That’s three books for under a buck!
A wine country native, K.F. Breene moved to San Francisco for college just shy of a decade ago to pursue a lifelong interest in film. As she settled into the vibrant city, it quickly became apparent that, while she thought making and editing films was great fun, she lacked cinematic genius. For that reason, her career path quickly changed direction. Her next goal was a strange childhood interest, conjured at the dining room table while filling out a form. For some reason, her young self wanted to be an accountant. Thinking on it now, she often wonders how she had any friends. Regardless, it was the direction she finally took.
While she could wrangle numbers with the best of ‘em, and even though she wore the crown as the most outspoken, belligerent accountant in the world, her mind got as stuffy as her daily routine. It was here that she dusted off her creative hat and began writing. Now she makes movies in her head, not worried about lighting, shutter speed or editing equipment. Turns out, a computer is much easier to manage than a crowd of actors. She should know, she was an actor at one time.
Website | Twitter | Facebook
February 18, 2014
Testing Fate by Belinda Boring
Title: Testing Fate
Author: Belinda Boring
Series: The Mystic Wolves (#3)
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Blushing Heart Press
Release Date: Mar 2013
Edition/Formats Available In: eBook & Print
Blurb/Synopsis:
Nothing burns as bright as the flames of the refiner’s fire.
Moments after hearing the Council sentence her enemy to life imprisonment for attempted murder and illegal use of magic, Darcy is whisked away by the Fates—accused of tampering with destiny. The cherished dream she shared with Mason has been called into question, placing doubt about whether they are actually true mates. To resolve it, a price must be paid—the Heart or Death—a grueling series of tests designed to reveal a person’s worth.
The stakes are high and Darcy finds herself facing the unknown in conditions that leave her more vulnerable than she’s ever been. Separated from Mason and her Pack, with Devlin as her only companion, she is pushed to her very limits. She must succeed—or lose everything.
Will she crumble under the pressure or emerge stronger for testing fate?
Book Links
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
iTunes
Smashwords
Book Trailer
Goodreads
About the Author
A homesick Aussie living amongst the cactus and mountains of Arizona, Belinda Boring is a self-proclaimed addict of romance and all things swoon worthy. It wasn’t long before she began writing, pouring her imagination and creativity into the stories she dreams. Whether urban fantasy, paranormal romance or romance in general, Belinda strives to share great plots with heart and characters that you can’t help but connect with. Of course, she wouldn’t be Belinda without adding heroes she hopes will curl your toes. Surrounded by a supportive cast of family, friends, and the man she gives her heart and soul to, Belinda is living the good life. Happy reading!
Author Links
Amazon Author Page
Facebook
Goodreads
Pinterest
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Website
Excerpt
“But, do you truly understand what you’re saying? Are you willing to put Darcy and your Pack through more attempts like Amber’s? Are you willing to fight a challenge with every suitor that comes along?”
“Yes. If that’s what is needed, then I will beat them all!” Mason’s body stiffened with determination and I could only imagine what his wolf was experiencing below the surface. Male werewolves were dominant and extremely territorial. I had no doubt Mason would fight to the death, as many times as he needed to, in order to keep me by his side.
“I am sure you would, young Alpha. But are you willing to have Darcy do that as well? Will you be able to watch her fight to the death? Is your pride worth the risk? Are you willing to test fate?”
February 16, 2014
Spotlight: Burn’s World by Eve Rabi
Genre: Romance: Steamy Romance
Publisher: Self Published
ASIN: B00CYQOG5I
“You never forget your first love. Burn couldn’t even though she had moved on. An awesome love triange that ‘burns’ and keeps you reading.” Smashwords reviewer
When the school star athlete, blue-eyed, blonde haired, Brody McGraw asks her out, Burn can hardly believe her luck.
In record time they start dating and she is thrilled when she can finally change her Facebook profile status to ‘In a relationship’.
However, Brody’s mother has huge political plans for her family and she makes it clear, they do not include someone with Burn’s color.
When Burn suffers a severe bout of self-loathing because of Dawn McGraw’s words, she is forced to make a decision that will break her heart.
Enter Trojan Catrell, a thug and an enemy of Brody McGraw. He wants what Brody has and he pursues Burn.
Since she hankers after Brody McGraw, Burn’s not interested.
However, Trojan has no intention of taking no for an answer and a long triangle that lasts for years ensues.
.
When he sees me, he smiles. A sheepish smile. Again, he’s wearing a long-sleeve black shirt, dark jeans, dreads tied back, and a stud in his ear. He has no other jewellery on.
“What’s your pleasure, sir?” I ask notepad and pencil in hand.
You.
I smile.
“What do I have to do to get you to get on the bar and do a Coyote Ugly for me?”
I look at the ceiling, then at him. “You’d have to dance with me.”
“No way!” he laughs. “I’ll just have a beer.”
“What kind of beer, sir?”
He narrows his eyes at me. “You choose. Impress me.”
“O … kay. One ginger beer coming up.”
“Ginger beer? What the fuck?!”
“And how would you like your ginger beer, sir? Rare, medium-rare, well done …?”
“Lemmee think …on a long body shot.”
I giggle and walk away to fetch the beer. When I return, it’s with an icy-cold Stella Artois and the entire staff.
His eyes flit around. “What the …?”
To his absolute horror, we clap and sing Happy Birthday to him.
He sinks lower into his seat and eventually puts his hand over his eyes. “Burn, I’m gonna fucking kill you!” he mutters as Tong Carlos and Madonna link arms and dance around.
My response is to “Yip! Yip!”
“Hooray!” they chorus.
When they leave, he tries to glare at me and fails. “I’m gonna get you back for this,” he warns. sinking further into his chair. “I promise.”
“Whaddyamean? You want them to sing in Chinese? I can arrange …”
“No!”
“Okay, okay!”
“So, what are you doing here?”
He shrugs. “Was in the neigborhood. ‘Sides, you promised me a drink and …”
“Ah.”
“It’s my birthday on Saturday and I’m having it at Danes. I’d like you to come.”
I wasn’t expecting him to invite me to a party.
“I want you to come. Bring your friends too.”
“Danes? Bring my friends? Wow! Really? Man, am I impressed!”
He nods. “I’ll send a car for you guys.”
My jaw drops. He’ll send a car! This is just too good to be true. Hang on, I’m underage. Has he forgotten? Danes won’t allow me in.
“What? You need a written invitation or something?’
I shake my head. “Only one problem – my age. I tried to get fake IDs, but the guy stiffed us for our money and …”
“Why ya trippin’? Just be there. I got it covered.”
“Whaaaaat?!” I feel faint with excitement. “You can get us in? Really?”
“Really.”
“I …” Wow! My friends will worship me for life if I can get them into Danes. How do I pass on it?
I look at him with one eye closed. “What’s the catch?”
“Catch?” He thinks about it. “One body shot.”
“Get lost!”
He laughs. “I’m kidding!”
“No strings attached?”
“None whatsoever. But …this …” He wags his finger between us – it don’t count as a date. We straight?”
I nod. “We straight.” Hell, the dudes getting us into Danes – no more trippin’ from me.
“Say yes.”
I smile. “Yes!”
His turn to smile. “Cool.” He looks pleased.
Eve Rabi lives in Sydney Australia, but was born in South Africa.
She is the author of 20 books and is known for her kick-ass leading ladies, her alpha males and her ability to make you cry and make you laugh as you fall in love.
Feel free to stalk her online:
http://www.facebook.com/eve.rabi
Please follow her:
everabi.wordpress.com
To view all her books click on the link below:
http://www.amazon.com/Eve-Rabi/e/B005HXX1C4
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February 15, 2014
Spotlight: Blake and Amber’s Special Valentine Delivery, by Mary Lynn Bast
Title: Blake and Amber’s Special Valentine Delivery
Author: MaryLynn Bast
Series: Heart of a Wolf Series (Companion Novella)
Genre: New Adult, Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Werewolf Tails Publishing
Release Date: February 14, 2014
Blurb/Synopsis:
Amber is headstrong as ever and refuses to remain at home just because it’s expected of her. Traveling has been her life and the pull to hit the road is strong.
This time when Blake goes off to work, he is on a serious mission. He is fighting to save the lives of werewolf children who are being ripped from their families, their lives in danger.
Neither Blake nor Amber realize they may end up having to fight to save their own family…
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Book Links
______________
Author Information
MaryLynn Bast grew up in Texas. An avid reader, she enjoyed writing romantic short stories. After moving to Las Vegas in 201o and starting a new chapter in her life, she followed her dream of publishing her first book, a paranormal romance, in 2012 and continues to write stories for the Heart of a Wolf Series. She is branching out and beginning the Panther Pride Saga. A few other stories are in the works as well.
MaryLynn is a full time author and a full time student working on her Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design. Working with several different companies who did government contracts for the US Military, MaryLynn was able to travel the world, meeting new and interesting people.
To further her knowledge into the paranormal world, MaryLynn joined a group in Vegas. In doing so, another passion was brought back to life. Her fascination with the spirit world inspired her to team up with a colleague. Forming CAT Parapsychic, together and with other team members, they investigate all things paranormal.
MaryLynn has several blogs she keeps updated on a regular basis. Her book blog can be found at http://www.mlbast.com. Her Paranormal blog can be found at http://www.catparapsychic.com.
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Author Links
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Cover Reveal: Chasing the Green Fairy by Melanie Karsak
Chasing the Green Fairy
The Airship Racing Chronicles Book II
A sabotaged airship.
A recovering opium addict.
A messenger with life-shattering news.
With the 1824 British airship qualifying race only weeks away, Lily Stargazer is at the top of her game. She’s racing like a pro, truly in love, and living clean. But on one ill-omened day, everything changes.
Pulled head-long into the ancient secrets of the realm, Lily soon finds herself embroiled in Celtic mysteries and fairy lore. And she’s not quite sure how she got there, or even if she wants to be involved. But Lily soon finds herself chasing the spirit of the realm while putting her own ghosts to rest. And only accepting the truth–about her heart and her country–can save her.
Begin the adventure with Chasing the Star Garden, The Airship Racing Chronicles I, available at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Chasing-Garden-Airship-Racing-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B00GXUU6IC/
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About the Author
Melanie Karsak grew up in rural northwestern Pennsylvania where there wasn’t much to do but read books and go for hikes. She wrote her first novel, a gripping piece about a 1920s stage actress, when she was 12. Today, Melanie, a steampunk connoisseur, white elephant collector, and caffeine junkie, lives in Florida with her husband and two children. She is an Instructor of English at Eastern Florida State College.
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Melanie-Karsak/e/B009DKGKQG/
Blog: http://melaniekarsak.blogspot.com
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Excerpt
A chartreuse-colored leaf fluttered down onto the wheel of the Stargazer. It was early morning. The mist covering the surface of the Thames reflected the rosy sunrise. Yawning, I reached out to brush it away only find it was not a leaf at all. Carefully, I balanced the fragile creature on the tip of my finger.
“Mornin’, Lil. Hey, what’s that?” Jessup called as he bounced onto the deck of the Stargazer.
Angus was cursing as he cranked out the repair platform below the ship. We were preparing for our morning practice run to Edinburgh.
“A luna moth,” I replied.
“I thought maybe you’d finally caught the green fairy,” Jessup joked as he climbed into the burner basket.
I grinned. The moth’s green wings, dotted with yellowish eyes, wagged slowly up and down. It was beautiful, but it was dying. “My mother once told me that they are fey things, that they live in the other realm until it’s their time to die. Then, they come to humans.”
“Why?” Jessup asked as he adjusted the valves. Orange flame sparked to life.
“She said that even enchanted things want to be truly loved at least once.”
“Don’t we all?” he replied with a laugh.
A harsh wind blew across the Thames, clearing the morning mist. It snatched the delicate creature from my hands. I tried to catch it, but the breeze pulled it from me even as it was dying. I lost it to the wind.
I sighed heavily as I picked up my tools then bounded over the side of the ship to the repair platform. I pulled out a dolly and rolled under, joining Angus who had fallen remarkably silent. The moment I saw the gear assembly on the Stargazer, I understood why.
“What the hell?” I whispered.
“Aye, lassie.”
“Jessup!” I shouted. “Get the tower guards down here!”
“What’s wrong?” Jessup called.
“The Stargazer has been sabotaged!”
I stared at the mangled gears. From the saw marks on the gear assembly to the metal shrapnel blown around the galley, it was clear what had happened. I felt like someone had punched me in the gut.
Seconds later I heard Jessup’s boots hit the platform and the sound of him running toward the guard station.
“They removed Sal’s torque mechanism. Sawed the bloody thing right off,” Angus said angrily.
“But . . . who?” I stammered.
“The Dilettanti?” Angus offered as he strained to examine the rest of the assembly.
“No,” I said as I touched the saw marks. The rough metal cut my finger. “That business is finished. Byron saw to that.” I stuck my bloodied finger in my mouth. The salty taste of blood mixed with the tang of gear grease.
“Then who?”
“Someone who didn’t want us to race in the qualifying. Someone who wanted to learn what had us running so fast.”
We were less than a month out from the British qualifying. While there were other good race teams in the realm, no one raced better than us. After all, we were the champions of the 1823 World Grand Prix. My stunt in Paris had brought us heaps of acclaim, but not all our British competitors were impressed. Envy had set in.
“Grant?” Angus suggested.
Julius Grant, whose team was sponsored by Westminster Gas Light, was our greatest competition at home. He hated us. He was annoyed that we were sponsored by Byron, annoyed that I was female, and annoyed that we were faster than him. Grant was the most likely suspect. But he was not the only one. “Almost too obvious. What about Lord D?” I wondered aloud.
“He’d love to, but he doesn’t have the stones,” Angus replied. “Might be someone who doesn’t want us in the Prix. If they take us out during qualifying, we aren’t a threat abroad.”
“That means it could be anyone.”
“Hell, maybe one of Byron’s lovers took a stab at you.”
“But I’m not even romantically involved with him anymore.”
“The rest of the world doesn’t know that.”
I rolled out from under the ship. Leaning against the Stargazer, I wiped my hands. The cut stung as grease mingled with the open wound. I wanted to either beat someone to death or cry. I wasn’t sure which. Maybe both.
Angus joined me.
“Can we get it fixed in time?” I asked him.
He wiped sweat from his bald head as he thought. “It’ll be close. I’ll need Sal’s help.”
“You? Need Sal?”
“Aye, lassie.”
“He’s busy getting the factory ready, but he’ll come.”
Jessup returned with Edwin, the stationmaster, and Reggie, one of the guards.
“Where the hell were your people last night?” Angus demanded of Edwin. We’d known Edwin for a long time, and we trusted the guards in London. Something wasn’t right.
As Angus and Edwin discussed, a terrible ache rocked my stomach. I set my hand on the side of the Stargazer. Her honey-colored timbers shone in the sunlight. Just as sleek and beautiful as she was the first time I laid eyes on her, she was my pride and joy. My ship. My love. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath.
“What do you think, Lil?” Jessup asked.
Clearly, I’d missed something. “Pardon?”
“Edwin suggested we post a private guard,” Jessup explained.
I nodded. “We’ll sort it out.”
“Lily, I’m so sorry. Someone must have sneaked past us. I can’t believe it,” Edwin said. His clear blue eyes were brimming with tears.
I set my hand on his shoulder. “Who was stationed on this end last night?”
“Morton.”
I sighed. I wasn’t one to point fingers, but that explained it. “Was he still drunk when he went home this morning?” I asked Reggie.
Reggie shifted uncomfortably as Edwin turned to look at him. “He was,” Reggie answered after a moment.
“That lazy, rummy bloke. I’ll kill him! I’ll kill him!” Edwin shouted, and in an angry huff, stomped back down the platform.
“Sorry, Lily. Angus. Jessup. I won’t take my eyes off her,” Reggie said sadly then went to take a post near the Stargazer.
“We’ll sleep on the ship until we get a guard on board,” I told Angus and Jessup who nodded in agreement.
“A guard . . . but who can we trust?” Jessup asked.
“The Stargazer is family. We need family to keep her safe,” Angus replied then looked at me.
“You mean . . . Duncan?” About three years earlier, I’d been, albeit briefly, in a relationship with Angus’ older brother Duncan. While I’d fallen for Duncan the moment I’d laid eyes on him, we were not suited for one another. Back then, I wasn’t ready to give up Byron or anything else.
Angus shrugged. “I suppose he’s over you by now.”
“That’s all well and good,” Jessup spat, “but we need someone to look into this! Someone needs to be held accountable! We should send for the Bow Street boys.”
Angus shook his head. “Only if we want everyone in London to know.”
“Well, we need to do something!” Jessup protested.
“Let’s keep it quiet. I’ll talk to Phineas,” I replied.
Jessup nodded eagerly. “Yeah. Good idea.”
Angus frowned. “Are you sure about that?”
Phineas and I had a convoluted opiate history, but as Angus knew well, I’d been keeping my habits in check. “It’ll be fine. I’ll check in with Phin, go get Sal, and come back. We can head out to the league meeting together.”
“If Grant looks even a wee bit guilty, I’m going to squeeze his neck,” Angus cursed.
“If he looks guilty, I’ll help you,” I replied. I set my hand on the Stargazer. It was so painful to see something you loved damaged.
“It’ll be all right, Lil,” Jessup said trying to comfort me. “We’ll get her fixed.”
I smiled weakly at Jessup then turned to leave. I knew he was right, but it didn’t make me feel any better.
February 14, 2014
Guest Post: Annette Gisby, Author of The Chosen
A Tale of Woe – A Fairy Story
Once upon a time there was a writer, a writer who dreamed of being published, of seeing her name on the cover of a book.
She did all the right things, she took writing classes, she read books on how to write the perfect query, the perfect synopsis, how to approach the right publisher or agent.
She used the knowledge gained to send out lots of queries, included her SAE and waited for replies. And waited. No agents seemd interested, and neither did the publishers.
Did that mean she had a bad book? It was difficult to say, so as a test she offered readers the chance to read the manuscript electronically and give feedback on it. Feedback was good, they thought it was a good story.
But what to do about the lack of interest by publishers?
On the internet she discovered some POD companies, could this be the answer she was looking for? At first she thought it might be, but no, sales were good, but the royalties owed were not forthcoming so she tried again for a traditional publisher.
And then one day it happened. “Please send the rest of your manuscript.” The writer could hardly contain her joy. She thought back to her query letter, what was different? In this one she had mentioned “sales” from her POD book, did that help?
A contract was offered and she accepted, thinking that all her problems were over. No, they were only just beginning.
The writer had designed a beautiful cover, but the publisher didn’t approve and wanted to use their own cover. The writer agreed, reluctantly, she really hated the cover and so did anyone else who looked at it.
But the problems didn’t end there, after having signed a contract giving away world rights, the writer discovered that the publisher had no intention of marketing worldwide, just in the US. Which was a problem for a writer who had readers in the UK. So thinking it over, the writer decided to leave that particular company.
But now she was back to square one and all the querying started again. A few months later, the manuscript was requested and a contract offered. Again, the writer thought that things could only get better. No so.
First it was the correspondence, or lack of it. Emails went unanswered, the website remained static for months on end. Were they having problems? An email was sent to all the writers asking for investment in the company. Were they having financial difficulties? Why was nothing said sooner? Would the writer’s book ever be out?
There was nothing left but to cancel the contract, but even though all the problems were caused by the publishers, the writer wondered if her book was jinxed and she was wary of sending it off to another publisher.
So she sat down long and hard and had a talk with her fairy godfather (also known as her husband) and decided to completly self-publish her novel, no publishers involved anywhere.
Will there be a happy ending? That depends, it is a fairy story after all, and we would expect so.
About the Author
Annette Gisby grew up in a small town in Northern Ireland, moving to London when she was seventeen. Being a very small town there were no bookshops and a small library. When she’d devoured every book she could get her hands on in the library, she started writing her own stories so she would always have something to read later.
When not writing she enjoys reading, cinema, theatre, walks along deserted beaches or wandering around ruined castles (great places for inspiration!) New Zealand is her favourite place and she hopes to travel back there one day. She’s a fan of Japanese Manga and Anime and one day hopes to learn Japanese.
She currently lives in Hampshire with her husband, a collection of porcelain dolls and stuffed penguins and enough books to fill a small library. It’s diminishing gradually since the discovery of ebooks but still has a long way to go.
About the Book
Ebook
http://www.amazon.com/The-Chosen-ebook/dp/B00DFKVJ5C/
https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thechosen-1222707-143.html
http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/326842
Paperback
