Margo Bond Collins's Blog, page 37

December 1, 2015

Spotlight On: The Gray-Haired Knitting Detectives by D. E. Haggerty

Cozy Mystery / Romantic Comedy
Date Published: November 30, 2015

Get all three books of the Gray-Haired Knitting Detectives series in one bundle! The bundle includes Murder, Mystery & Dating Mayhem, Jack Gets His Man, and Love in the Time of Murder. Join the Gray-Haired Knitting Detectives as they solve the murder of Izzy’s grandma, figure out who is stealing money from Jack’s store, and clear Dee of murder charges. But don’t worry. Solving crimes won’t prevent the knitters from matchmaking Izzy, Jack, and Dee.

Murder, Mystery & Dating Mayhem
Izzy’s daredevil husband killed himself in a parachuting accident five years ago. Her best friend Jack decides it’s time for her to jump back in the dating pool. Just when things in the dating world start to heat up, Izzy’s grandma dies. Only her knitting group of Jessica Fletcher wannabes is sure it’s murder. Did someone really kill grandma or are Izzy and her merry band of geriatric thieves imagining things?

Jack Gets His Man
Despite how awesome Jack’s life is, he’s feeling restless and put out about his upcoming birthday and his ex is being a pain in his fabulous behind. When his smoking hot new bookkeeper discovers things at the store aren’t actually as they seem, Jack’s bestie and his gal pals, the gray-haired knitting detectives, jump at the chance to solve Jack’s problems. They’re determined to find love for Jack as well as his missing money. Will Jack catch a thief or find love? Either way Jack’s going to get his man.

Love in the Time of Murder
In Love in the Time of Murder, the Gray-Haired Knitting Detectives face their toughest case yet. Delilah, granddaughter of one of the knitting detectives, returns home after managing to pry herself loose from her husband’s clutches. But when Dee’s husband winds up murdered, she’s the number one suspect. The Gray-Haired Knitting Detectives aren’t about to let one of their own get sent to the slammer and jump at the chance to search for the true killer. And if they manage to find a new love interest for Dee as well, then that’s just the icing on the cake.

About the Author

I grew up reading everything I could get my hands on from my mom’s Harlequin romances to Nancy Drew to Little Woman. When I wasn’t flipping pages in a library book, I was penning horrendous poems, writing songs no one should ever sing, or drafting stories which have thankfully been destroyed. College and a stint in the U.S. Army came along, robbing me of free time to write and read, although I did manage to sneak a book into my rucksack between rolled up socks, MRIs, t-shirts, and cold weather gear every once in a while. A few years into my legal career, I was exhausted, fed up, and just plain done. I quit my job and sat down to write a manuscript, which I promptly hid in the attic after returning to the law. Another job change, this time from lawyer to B&B owner and I was again fed up and ready to scream I quit, which is incredibly difficult when you own the business. Thus, I shut the B&B during the week and in the off-season and started writing. Several books later I find myself in Istanbul writing full-time.

Contact Information

Website

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Email: dena@dehaggerty.com

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Published on December 01, 2015 20:04

Spotlight On: The Anna Avery Series, by Stephanie Nelson

Anna Avery has a new story and GORGEOUS, brand new covers!

Taming the Wolf

Buy on Amazon

Attacked by a wolf while hiking, Anna Avery’s life just got a little hairier. Living in the Big Horn mountains in Wyoming, with a group of werewolves who are more animal than human, Anna must try to hold onto her human side. It’s not easy when the alpha continues to persuade her into his bed, while another wolf is chomping at the bit to become her mate. To top it all off, dead bodies are showing up and it just so happens that Anna was the last to see them alive. She’ll have to work to prove her innocence and taming the wolf who bites first and asks questions never.

Because of the sexual nature, this book is intended for readers 18 and older.

Embracing the Wolf

Buy on Amazon

For the first time, Anna Avery was looking forward to the future. She’s mated to her soul mate. The pack has become her new family, and she has friends she can confide in. She had every reason to look ahead, until a vision put her future happiness in jeopardy.

Someone is set on destroying her mate, Adam, and only Anna can prevent this possible future. While trying to unravel the hazy web of her premonition, she finds out the annual pack conference will take place on her mountain. And Adam’s parents will be attending. As only a “made” wolf, Anna will have to face their prejudice and possibly make the hardest decision she has ever had to make. Because saving Adam’s life might just mean walking away from him for forever.

Ruling the Wolf

Coming soon!!!

Preorder on:

Nook – http://bit.ly/1EQcRwo

iTunes – http://apple.co/1J01Y6b

Kobo – http://bit.ly/1UJdTw4

About the author:

Stephanie resides in the Midwest with her husband and their furry children. She considers herself a homebody and is perfectly okay with that. She enjoys reading, fishing, playing board games and video games. She’s obsessed with Super Mario Bros. and Donkey Kong. She loves hearing from her readers, and even saves the messages when she needs a little pick-me-up.

Follow the author:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Literary Addicts | Amazon

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Published on December 01, 2015 19:28

Spotlight On: Sexy Bastards ~ Collection by Alice Ward and Helen Grey

Romance
Date Published: November 24, 2015

**Available for a LIMITED TIME, this boxed set contains over FORTY DOLLARS worth of books for only 99 cents!**

***Warning: Contains thousands of pages of sexy alpha males, steamy sex, and passionate romance.***

For the first time ever, bestselling authors Alice Ward and Helen Grey combine to bring you their complete collection of the sexiest, wickedest books—guaranteed to melt your heart and panties!

From hot and dominant soldiers to seductively bad stepbrothers and billionaire playboys, this TWENTY-EIGHT BOOK BOXED SET indulges every sensual desire you’ve ever had.

You know it’s true… everyone loves a sexy bastard…

Contained inside this mega-bundle:
Alice Ward
Reckless Box Set (contains complete 5-part series)
Taming the Billionaire Box Set (contains complete 5-part series)
My Stepbrother, My Lover (complete standalone novel)
Love All Out—A Stepbrother Romance Box Set (contains complete 5-part series)
Stage Struck (contains complete 2-part series)
Helen Grey
Serving the Soldier—An Alpha Military Romance (contains complete 5-part series)
Flaming Desire—An Alpha Billionaire Romance (contains complete 5-part series)

Taming the Billionaire by Alice Ward – Excerpt

“I don’t know about you, but I’m exhausted,” Drake said, pulling off his shoes. He stripped down to his silk boxers and crawled between the sheets. I moved to the foot of the bed and stood before him with a coy smile on my face.

“Before you nod off, I have a confession,” I began.

Drake raised an eyebrow and returned my grin. “Oh yeah? What’s that?”

“I spent more money today than you realized,” I told him as I unwrapped the belt of my wrap dress. “I wanted to show you how much I appreciate the way you’ve spoiled me today.”
The dress fell open, revealing the peach silk lingerie I’d found in a small boudoir shop. The translucent fabric clung to my curves, barely covering the crotchless panties beneath.

Drake pushed himself up in the bed and parted the sheets, nodding for me to slip in beside him. “You look stunning, Chelsea. I hope there’s more where this came from,” he added, stroking the soft fabric. He brushed the silk against my body and my hair stood on end, as if electrified. I reached between his legs and found him stiff and ready.

Drake lifted his hips off of the bed and slipped out of his boxers. He tossed them to the floor before lying on his side and pulling me into his arms. We kissed lightly, our lips barely touching, as the jet began to move.

“I have an idea,” I told him, sitting up. Drake moved with me as I fell back to the mattress, this time with my head near the footboard. I wanted Drake inside me as the jet climbed to the heavens, and he caught on to my plan without explanation. He left my side just long enough to fetch a condom and roll it down his eager shaft. He returned to the bed and I pulled him down on top of me.

Our lips met as the jet slowed to a stop again. I knew we’d reached the runway and were waiting for final clearance. Drake held me close and we kissed softly, our bodies pressed together. We moved in unison, our bodies seamlessly joining as the jet lurched forward again. As we bumped down the runway, Drake’s cock touched places inside me I’d never known existed.

“Oh my God,” I gasped as the force of the jet pushed him deeper inside me.

The front of the jet lifted off the ground and Drake wrapped his arms around me, holding our bodies together. I moved my hips in circles, grinding into him as I planted my palms on the footboard to hold myself steady.

“Jesus, Chelsea,” Drake moaned. “I didn’t know I could get so deep.” His hips moved in instinctive, rapid thrusts as we climbed into the sky. Essentially, we were hanging upside down, and all of my senses were distorted. Drake wove his fingers through my hair and gave it a quick tug just as his teeth clamped down on my earlobe. The mixture of pleasure and pain was overwhelming. I bucked wildly against him and reached ecstasy just as the plane righted itself. Drake let out an animalistic grunt and with one hard push, he exploded within me. He immediately collapsed on the bed, gasping for breath.

“That… was… amazing.”

“Yes, it was,” I agreed, reaching for the bedside mini-fridge. I grabbed a cold bottle of water and took a long sip before passing it to Drake. He finished it in two long gulps and wiped his mouth with a sigh.

“So,” he said, pulling me back into his arms. He fingered my silk negligee. “Is there more where this came from?”

I smiled and nuzzled into his neck. “I guess you’ll just have to wait and see.”

Flaming Desire by Helen Grey – Excerpt

I got right to the point. “I’ve been told that you’ve alienated one of the doctors—”

“Doctor Linder?” Matt asked.

I nodded.

“He’s a prick.”

Startled, I almost laughed. “Didn’t take you long to peg him, did it?”

He shook his head. “I didn’t say anything earlier because I didn’t want to embarrass you for one, and for two, I’m not familiar with how things work at this hospital. But I did see the good doctor leaving the supply closet just moments before Vanessa did. I could tell by the look on his face and the smirk he gave you what had been going on in there.”

I said nothing, surprised that Matt had seen and not said anything.

“Look, I know stuff like this happens in the workplace—any workplace. But what’s the protocol here? Has that happened before?”

I nodded. “It’s a tricky situation,” I explained. “I can’t report him without evidence to back it up. You see, Matt, we’re just nurses… and as you know, nurses don’t have that much power when it comes to the doctors and surgeons.” I shrugged. “Most of the physicians here are good people. Still, there are some, like Doctor Linder, who take advantage. I’ve seen it happen elsewhere too. Santa Fe General is not unique.”

“He’s an arrogant ass,” Matt said. “But your point is well taken.”

I nodded and began to walk toward my car, not really surprised that Matt kept in step with me. I didn’t want to be rude and tell him to go away, because to be honest with myself, I didn’t. Still, I had to be careful. I was his mentor, even if it was only for the next couple of days. We would also be going on the ride-alongs with the paramedics in the morning. I was supposed to set a good example, but I didn’t suppose there was anything wrong with him walking me to my car, was there? Besides, it was getting dark, and I appreciated the escort.

“So, Jesse—”

“Jessica,” I sighed.

“So Jessica, what do you do in your downtime?”

I glanced up at him in surprise. “Why?”

He shook his head. “Just an attempt at friendly conversation.”

We were steps away from my car now. I pulled the keys from my purse and pushed a button on the remote. My headlight and taillights flashed, and then I pressed another button. The back window popped open. Reaching for the door handle, I opened the door toward me. I looked up at him only to find him staring at the contents stowed behind the rear passenger seats.

“What?”

He grinned. “For one, I just didn’t expect you to drive a Jeep,” he said, shrugging.

“Really?” I asked. “And what exactly did you expect I would drive?” Was he flirting?
“Oh, I don’t know, a Camry maybe, or a Ford Focus.”

I frowned and made a face. “I do a lot of driving between here and Colorado—”

“Seriously?”

I tucked my purse inside a plastic storage crate near the door like I always did, wondering why he stared so curiously at the items in the back. “Yes,” I replied. “I have several friends up there and we get together several times a year—”

He gestured to the supplies I kept for wildfire fighting neatly organized in the back of the Jeep. Ropes. First aid kit. Helmet. Protective gear. He then focused his attention on a pile of supplies tucked up against the back seat. A claw tool. A fire ax, shovel, and beneath the pile, the edge of a firefighter’s helmet. He stared from me to the supplies and back again.

“What?”

“You’ve got quite a rig back there,” he commented. “Mine is almost exactly like it.”

I smiled. You’re an independent contractor too, own your own rig and gear?”

“Most of it,” he said. “If I’m close, I drive, which I’m sure you do as well, considering your choice of vehicles.”

I laughed. He had me pegged. It was a common practice with most contracted wildfire firefighters, hotshots and smoke-jumpers, especially those signed on with the National Forest Service or other agencies. Other than that, independent contractors like us would be grouped into teams and flown into trouble spots by the agency in charge, along with their equipment.

He gave me an appraising look. “Advanced ACLS?”

I nodded. I was Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support certified.

He grinned. I felt an odd sense of pleasure and pride.

I closed the back door and then turned to move toward the side of the Jeep. I thought he was going to step back, but he didn’t, and once again, I bumped into him. Felt his rock hard chest. My hand brushed up against his pants and I realized that he was sporting what I sensed was the beginning of a hard-on. Seriously? Just seeing my rig got him off?

He gently placed his hands on my shoulders until I regained my balance. He stared down at me, his expression serious. “I’m just going to throw this out here, Jesse—”

“Jessica,” I said, although my voice only came out a whisper.

“I’m attracted to you,” he said bluntly. “I know you’re my mentor, and I appreciate that and recognize the boundaries. At the same time, as you obviously just felt, I do have to admit that I’m attracted to you.”

I stared at him a moment, not sure he had just said that. Was he always so blunt? Again I felt the heat of the blush travel up into my cheeks, although I doubted he could see it in the growing darkness. Thank goodness for small favors. Desire surged through me. Would it really matter if I admitted the same? I quickly shook my head. Foolishness. I had enough to do without getting involved with someone like Matt. He was obviously a player. I too had seen the looks women had given him today; the contemplation, the open desire in many of their expressions. I might feel the same, but I certainly wasn’t going to admit it. I wasn’t as easy as Vanessa, that was for sure.

“Want to go have a drink, talk about this?”

I took a step back even though I longed more than anything to throw my arms around him, feel his lips on mine, and make out with him. “I don’t drink.”

“I don’t either, really,” he grinned. “Would it be totally inappropriate if I kissed you?”

The switch in topic startled me. “Yes,” I said, my eyes not leaving his for a moment.

Nevertheless, I didn’t move as he slowly leaned over me. He was going to kiss me. Every nerve in my body anticipated it while my brain kept shouting at me to walk away. Still, I had nowhere to go. My back was practically pressed up against the side of the Jeep. Matt was standing so close to me that I felt the heat emanating from his body. The truth of the matter was, I didn’t want to escape. I wanted him to kiss me. I just wouldn’t say the words.

He obviously didn’t need them. At first, the touch of his lips was light, feathery, and oh so soft. Then, the pressure gradually increased until I responded. Boy did I! My ears began to ring and I vaguely heard the sound of keys dropping. Oh God, I had never been kissed like this. I refused to contemplate exactly how skilled Matt was at kissing when the tip of his tongue caressed first my upper lip, then my lower one, gently urging my lips apart.

About the Authors

Alice Ward is the author of the New Adult series, RECKLESS.

Reading and Writing romance is her passion and she writes with her true heart.

Living in Miami, the beach is her favorite place to relax with her laptop and write her next spicy romance.

However, when she is not reading or writing romance, she also enjoys being with her beautiful family.

Contact Links

Alice Ward Website

Alice Ward Facebook

Helen Grey is the author of the hot alpha military romance series “Serving the Soldier”.

Her passion is to write steamy erotic romance and she loves hot billionaire bad boys. Lucky for her, these two go perfectly together… Find out how in her books!

Contact Links

Helen Grey Website

Helen Grey Facebook

Purchase Links

Amazon
Amazon UK

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Published on December 01, 2015 08:46

November 30, 2015

Indie Bookfest Gift Guide

Ready for some help with your holiday shopping? Stock up those new kindles or get some paperbacks for under the tree. Support these Indie authors for your book buying needs.

Learn all about Indie BookFest which takes place in Orlando October 7, 8, & 9 2016

Click on the picture to purchase.

Young Adult Paranormal, Urban Fantasy, and Fantasy

Young Adult Sci-Fi

YA Dystopian

Young Adult Contemporary

New Adult Contemporary Romance

Contemporary Romance (Adult) and Chic Lit

Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy

Romantic Suspense

Science Fiction Romance

Mystery Thriller and Thriller

Historical Romance

Erotic Romance

Horror

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Published on November 30, 2015 23:25

Spotlight On: Timesurfers by Rhonda Sermon

Young Adult Urban Fantasy
Date Published: 9/28/2015

“It’s not a choice. It’s a destiny.”

Fifteen-year-old Cate takes weird, unusual and plain terrifying in her stride. Five years in witness protection will do that. It didn’t however prepare her for when everything and everyone surrounding her suddenly froze at the bus stop. All still like statues. Only she sees the teens appear out of thin air. One boy hoists the bus she’s waiting to board over his head, while the others disarm a bomb placed underneath it. When she confronts them the teens vanish. Literally vanish.

Intrigued why Cate wasn’t frozen at the bus stop, the teens pursue her relentlessly. They arrive at Socrates Private School and all the teachers and the other students act like they’ve known them all forever– like they’ve always attended the school. Cate sees something different. She is adamant they are totally new to Socrates and have never set foot in the school before today. What’s with that?

When Cate accidentally brings a dead cheerleader back to life, her connection to the secretive teens is revealed. They are Timesurfers who travel through time and battle the powerful dark forces intent on manipulating history. A reluctant Cate is forced into their brutal world. She must discover her magical powers, choose a side, and end an ancient war. That’s if, and it’s a pretty big if, she can survive the initiation trials. No pressure though.

EXCERPT

“I brought a dead cheerleader back to life,” she blurted.

Naitanui’s luminous yellow eyes widened.

“I probably would have gone with ‘hello’ to break the ice. But that was definitely another option,” Austin said.

“Where am I?” She demanded.

“You’re outside the Break,” Austin said.

“You could have killed her.” Naitanui gave Austin a look Cate was all too familiar look. Her mother used it often. It came with an “I’ll deal with you later” clause.

“But I didn’t. We found her. I couldn’t risk her vanishing.”

“Inside.” Naitanui stepped backward through the cascading water.

“Huh?” Cate muttered. The water didn’t splash on Naitanui’s head. He passed through, leaving the water undisturbed. She pulled back, digging her heels into the ground and crossing her arms. Until Austin did some explaining, she wasn’t going a step further.

“Have it your way.” Austin bent and grabbed her behind the knees, then slung her over his shoulder.

“Put me down.” She pounded on his back with her fists. Unperturbed, he strode toward where Naitanui had disappeared. A shudder ran through her body, and the waterfall was behind them. They had walked straight through and arrived dry on the other side. She stretched to touch the water, and her fingers glided through nothing. Another shudder ran up her arm yet it remained dry.

“It’s a glamour.” Austin set her down. “More magic.” He strolled further into the cave, heading for an opening in the rock wall. The slightest hint of light filtered through the gap.

She looked from Austin to the waterfall, deliberating whether to run or follow.

“You can’t go back to 2014 without me. Come and learn about time travel.” Austin ducked through the archway. “You demanded I bring you here for answers, so man up and come and get them.”

Little puffs of red dirt rose as she marched after him. Time travel. What the hell? This wasn’t going at all how she expected.

About the Author

Rhonda lives in Perth, Western Australia with her husband and two children. Her two ragdoll cats can often be found helpfully walking over her keyboard, chasing her mouse or generally complaining loudly about the lack of priority their needs are being given. On the good days, she adores writing, on the challenging days, it’s still awesome. Her debut novel Timesurfers was a finalist in the Young Adult category and overall runner up in The Strongest Start 2012 Contest hosted by TheNextBigWriter.com

Contact Links

Website

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

Goodreads

Purchase Links

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Kobo

Smashwords

Book Depository

iBOOKS

Giveaway

$25 Amazon Gift Card

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Published on November 30, 2015 22:57

November 29, 2015

Spotlight On: That Night by Lisa McManus

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THAT NIGHT
Lisa McManus

Evernight Teen Publishing, 31,000 words
Teen/Contemporary/Romance/Suicide/Bullying

It can take a whole day to figure out what happened…that night.

On what was to be just another Monday morning at school, Luke’s girlfriend Jessica is nowhere to be found. Names like ‘psycho lover’ follow Luke to his locker, even from his best friend. Luke soon learns Jessica tried to kill herself at a party from the previous Saturday night, and she’s blaming him. With posts on FaceBook feeding the rumors of what happened that night, the school has to investigate.

Torn between worry, guilt, loyalty, priorities, and an urgency to clear his name and protect hers, he has to find her—he loves her no matter what. The teacher in the middle of the investigation is also the same one to provide academic and character references for Luke’s college applications due by the end of the week. Luke knows he’s not to blame, but with no contact from Jessica and everyone blaming him for what happened, he’s at risk of losing everything—Jessica and his dreams of being a mechanic—all because of what happened that night.

Buy Links: ARe Amazon Evernight Teen

Follow the tour stops HERE.

Excerpt:
“Hey, man.” I nodded to Jeremy Waters as I started the long trek up the front lawn of the school. He nodded back but gave me a questioning stare as I walked past. Again, weird. What is with everyone today? I wondered.

I scanned the busy school grounds. Where was Jessica? I knew our break-up was inevitable, but I dreaded it. I still cared about her very much, but things were changing: me, her, and ‘us’––and I didn’t know what to do about it. Neither did she.

At first I didn’t notice anything off, but as I passed group after group of unusually silent guys and girls from all grades, I got that weird feeling, like I was being watched, like the whole school was focused on me or something.
Some of the guys pulled their buds out of their ears as I approached, their banter from moments before silencing as I passed. One guy shook his head as if in disgust. Another guy awkwardly picked at something on the ground with the toe of his shoe, as if he were avoiding something.

I kept going, trying to walk as normally as I could. Hard to do when you know you’re being watched.

Where was Jess? I checked my phone to see if there was anything from her: nothing.

I shifted my backpack and made my way up the path to the front steps of the school. With every footstep, uncertainty and foreboding gnawed at my gut.

A group of girls from Jessica’s drama club huddled on the front steps like a bunch of hens. They all gave me the once-over. One of them was crying and another gave me the finger.

That stopped me in my tracks. “What the hell?” I stared them down. “What was that for?”

“Screw you, Luke!” The one with the ornery finger spat. “Stay away from Jessica!”

What the…? Whatever. Bunch of gossips––they seriously need to get a life.

Jessica and I had been drifting apart for a while. Where she was involved in her drama club, her social life, I preferred being under the hood of a car, alone. But it wasn’t that I chose cars over her or anything. I cared about her very, very much. At one time I even contemplated the L-word thing with her. But lately, something had changed, and I couldn’t figure out what. I mean, I knew I wanted to be with her but it was like we were drifting towards each other, then away, then back towards each other again. Only to then again drift further away.

But I would never do anything to her, to earn me the middle finger from her friends. So why were they acting like that? What the…? I shook my head and kept going. I hadn’t done anything to provoke their reaction, so they could just go back to their pointless chatter about hair or whatever.

With fifteen minutes to go until the first bell, I wanted to catch up with Jess before classes started. She lived way on the other side of town, and as much I would have loved to pick her up every morning, her mom insisted on driving her. Her mom liked me, so it wasn’t anything against me personally, but Jessica said it was a ‘mom and daughter thing.’ And besides, we always met first thing at school and I would, at least, get to drive her home.

But that day, even though I wasn’t exactly about to have ‘the talk’ with her right before class, I wanted to at least see her that morning to start the day––it was our ‘thing.’ A pang of regret fluttered in my gut. If we broke up, would we still meet in the mornings? She had become part of my day and I still wanted that.

I made my way through the doors of the school. The halls were already swarming with East Clark High’s student body. I searched for Jessica as I pushed and wove my way through the crowd. But I soon realized I wasn’t pushing past anyone, anymore. The constant buzz in the halls had all but died down, and people were stepping aside giving me a wide berth as I went.

What the hell was wrong with everyone? I frowned at everyone practically plastered up against the lockers, avoiding me like I was contagious or something. Did I smell like dog sh––

“Psycho!” A familiar voice hissed in my ear, cutting off my thoughts. Great––Mark. I stuttered to a stop but tried to keep going. I, along with everyone else, was used to his stupid ways, but I had to find Jessica. I didn’t want to waste time getting into it with him right then.

But he came at me again with, “Psycho-lover!” and that definitely had me coming to a full stop. I swear I felt spit on my cheek.

I refused to swipe it away, giving him the satisfaction of … I didn’t know what. Something. I glanced up to find his buddies chuckling while Mark, the idiot himself, contorted his face into what he assumed was the look of a crazy person.

He didn’t have to try very hard. It came naturally.

And I hoped his eyes stayed crossed like that.

I stared him down, and just when I turned away he was up against me, his face so close to mine his eyes looked crossed. “Jessica almost knocked herself off the other night. Whadidja do? Screw her over?” he hissed.

I stared at him in confusion. My face numbed. My neck heated. What was he talking about? What did he mean, ‘knock herself off’?

About the Author:
Lisa McManus has been an avid reader since her teen years, and is inspired daily by her teenage boys and the forests and beaches of Vancouver Island, British Columbia where she lives. Along with writing for kids and teens, she is also multi-published with Chicken Soup for the Soul and numerous other magazines and anthologies. When she’s not writing, reading or refereeing her family, she is either hiking or out on the archery range.

Websites: www.lisamcmanus.com
www.lisamcmanuslange.blogspot.com
Twitter: @LisaMcManusLang
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8300457.Lisa_McManus
Amazon author page www.amazon.com/author/lisamcmanus

* * * * *

Giveaway:
$10 Evernight Teen GC and 1 ebook copy of THAT NIGHT

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Published on November 29, 2015 23:33

November 28, 2015

Spotlight On: A Passionate Spirit, by SC Skillman

A Passionate Spirit

By SC Skillman

Genre: Paranormal Thriller

Zoe ran through the wood in gathering dusk, her heart racing. She clutched the child’ s hand, which kept slipping out of hers. Sweat drenched her blouse, sticking it to her jacket, despite the dank chill in the air. They pounded along a narrow bramble-choked path. Zoe winced and the child sobbed, as spiky stems tore at their clothes and flesh, drawing blood.

It’s a dream come true for 25 year old Zoe when she and her new husband, unconventional priest Theo, move to the Cotswold hills. But fearsome dreams about a young girl running for her life disturb Zoe and she can’t shake off the idea that a child’s life is in danger… and so is hers.

When two unexpected guests arrive, James and Natasha, Zoe’s friend Alice immediately senses something amiss with them – and particularly Natasha; but no-one except Zoe agrees with her. Natasha embarks on a series of mysterious healings which astonish other guests and convince them that she is a miracle worker. But Zoe can’t abandon her feelings of unease. Then a series of disturbing events hits the centre…

When Zoe confronts Natasha she is completely unprepared for the terror she is about to face. Zoe will need more than the loyalty and strength of Alice to survive the frightening paranormal forces that are unleashed against her…

On Amazon: http://amzn.to/1I083G7

On Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1SINuhZ

Author Bio

S C SKILLMAN studied English Literature at Lancaster University. She has previously worked within a BBC radio production office and later spent four years in Australia. She now lives in Warwickshire with her husband David, their son Jamie and daughter Abigail.

http://www.scskillman.co.uk

On Facebook: facebook.com/scskillmanauthor

On Twitter: twitter.com/@scskillman

View more on Margo Bond Collins's website »

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Published on November 28, 2015 12:02

Spotlight On: The Bite of Winter, by Lauren Smith

Zoey is down on her luck, homeless and jobless over Christmas. When she’s attacked in an alley, she’s rescued by two century old Irish vampires named Ian and Connor. It’s up to them to win her heart over Christmas.

Looking for a sexy menage story? Look no further than THE BITE OF WINTER by Lauren Smith. And even better? THE BITE OF WINTER isn’t just a menage, it’s a menage with two sexy vampires. What more could a girl ask for?!

Synoposis:

Zoey Blake is about as far down on her luck as she can get. A car crash took her parents, leaving her destitute and on the street. When she’s attacked by another homeless person, her lifeblood drains away as her fading vision is filled with the face of a handsome stranger.

Ian Kennedy, a century old Irish vampire, never could resist rescuing a stray. As a few drops of his blood heals Zoey’s wounds, he realizes she’s a sweet, tempting, flesh-and-blood woman. But there’s one problem. Connor, who made Ian promise decades ago: no more mortal lovers.

After another vampire murdered his soulmate, Connor O’Shea swore never to let a mortal woman pay the price for loving him. Until he feels Zoey’s skin and tastes her lips. She makes him want to break that vow.

Zoey finds herself caught in their web of seduction. But as Christmas draws near and her grief deepens, happiness seems far out of reach. And Ian and Connor join forces to prove their love is sacred, special…and forever.

Warning: This book contains two scorching-hot Irish vampires, one lady with plenty of pluck but zero luck, naughty lingerie, and enough Christmas cheer to redeem even the darkest creatures.

Available at: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Kobo

Add The Bite of Winter to your GOODREADS TBR pile!

About Lauren Smith:

Amazon Best-Selling Author Lauren Smith is an attorney by day, author by night, who pens adventurous and edgy romance stories by the light of her smart phone flashlight app. She’s a native Oklahoman who lives with her three pets: a feisty chinchilla, sophisticated cat and dapper little schnauzer. She’s won multiple awards in several romance subgenres including being an Amazon.com Breakthrough Novel Award Quarter-Finalist and a Semi-Finalist for the Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley Award.

Connect with Lauren: Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon

View more on Margo Bond Collins's website »

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Published on November 28, 2015 09:43

November 25, 2015

Paranormal Romance Thursday Tour: Ilona’s Wolf, by Lyndi Lamont

Welcome to the Paranormal Romance Thursdays Tour! Over 12 weeks, we’re featuring some great paranormal romance authors and their books. Check out the preview of the tour and the excerpt from Lyndi Lamont’s novel below, then scroll to the bottom of the post to visit all the other participating authors!

Ilona’s Wolf

by Lyndi Lamont

Genre: steamy paranormal romance

Blurb:

Imagine a world filled with magic, a tormented knight, a damsel in distress, an evil sorcerer…

While picking herbs in the woods, Princess Ilona is rescued from a woodsman by a wolf. When the creature licks her wounds, it is suddenly transformed into a man. A very handsome, very naked man who makes passionate love to her in a glade.

Cursed by an evil wizard, Rolf was trapped in wolf form until he tasted the blood of a royal. Now he must escort the princess on a hazardous journey back to the castle to stop an ill-fated wedding.

Passion flares between them, but both know there is no future for Ilona and her werewolf. Or is there? In a world where magic and passion combine, anything may be possible.

Buy Links:

Amazon http://amzn.com/B00FQWC14U

Barnes & Noble http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ilonas-wolf-lyndi-lamont/1117134820

iBooks https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/ilonas-wolf-fairy-tale-romance/id736374559?mt=11&uo=4

Smashwords https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/369097

Excerpt:

The wolf looked at her, golden eyes gleaming, mouth open, showing off large, sharp teeth. She closed her eyes and gripped her throat with both hands. Quaking with terror, she listened as the animal padded toward her. She felt its hot breath on her cheek.

Opening her eyes a slit, she stared into the face of the wolf. Sad eyes stared at her, and her fears receded. Perhaps he’d been tamed. She reached out with what was left of her powers, but sensed no immediate danger. “Good wolf,” she stammered.

She held out one shaking fist, and the wolf sniffed it before licking her knuckles. It moved closer, sniffing her clothing. To her surprise, the animal hunkered down beside her and laid its head on her leg. Carefully, she touched it, stroking the soft fur.

Relief flooded through her. Saved by a wolf, of all creatures. “Thank the gods you showed up when you did. I’d no wish to be ravished by the likes of him.”

The wolf lifted its head and seemed to smile up at her, mouth open, tongue lolling.

She smiled at the canine as she continued to pet it. “Grateful I am for you rescuing me, but ’tis not exactly what a girl dreams of. Where’s my knight on a white steed? ‘Tis he who is supposed to do the rescuing.”

When the wolf lowered his head, sniffing between her legs, she laughed and pushed it away. “Rude creature.”

The animal responded by sitting up and resting its head on her breast. She put both arms around it and hugged it close, dropping a kiss on its head. “Do not misunderstand, Sir Wolf, but I still wish you were a knight. A strong, handsome knight like my Werner.”

The familiar sadness filled her at the memory of her husband. “I miss him so much, you know. Dagmar says another knight will come for me, a handsome knight to protect us and make sweet, passionate love to me.”

The wolf whined and raised his head to lick her cheek. Laughing, she tried to push him away, but he licked her full on the mouth. She closed her eyes, stunned when her powers came rushing back, like a flood of magic coursing around her.

Turning aside, she summoned her basket to her side. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw the wolf jump up, staring at the basket. Her vision seemed to blur as the wolf’s face slowly became humanlike, then shifted back. She must have hit her head harder than she’d thought if she was seeing things. She closed her eyes and shook her head, but the aching had receded.

When she peeked again, the wolf was gone, and a naked man crouched in front of her. A handsome, well-built man with shaggy brown hair and golden brown eyes.

You can find more about the author and her works here:

http://lindalyndi.com

_____________________________________________

Participating Authors

Be sure to stop by and check them all out!

Carmen Stefanescu

Daisy Banks

Flossie Benton Rogers

M. S. Kaye

Kim Kasch

Cassandra Ulrich

Julie Dárcy

Margo Bond Collins

Adrienne Woods

N. N. Light

Penny Estelle

Lyndi Lamont

View more on Margo Bond Collins's website »

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Published on November 25, 2015 23:09

November 23, 2015

Happy Release Day! Desert Wolf by Heather Long

DESERT WOLF by Heather Long

Outlaw Wolves & Defiant Hearts!

Sometimes pitiless and cruel, Sutter Butte Alpha Cassius Lucera lives in an ugly world where pack means blood, fights, and hate. To change his pack, he will have to change himself and only one person alive can help him—another pack’s Omega. DESERT WOLF by Heather Long is a story of redemption and fate that shows us how strong the attraction can be when opposites attract. If you enjoyed Motorcycle Man by Kristen Ashley, you’ll get thirsty for Desert Wolf.

Praise for the Wolves of Williow Bend Series:

“ROGUE WOLF is a fast paced, intriguing look into the world of shifters. Salvatore is old world a bit stodgy and Margo is very much new world and on top of that a lone wolf and Enforcer. How is it possible that these two could be mates? In author Heather Long’s vivid and fun imagination it’s very easy.” — Fresh Fiction

“BAYOU WOLF is in a word … amazing. All the reader can do is hold on for the ride and enjoy the fireworks.” — Fresh Fiction

“If you love sexy wolf shifters, sweet love stories and action then you have to pick up UNTAMED WOLF by Heather Long”. — Annetta Sweetko, Fresh Fiction

“It is a great story about finding a place to belong and the love that can follow if you allow it.” – Hart’s Romance Pulse reviewing RIVER WOLF

Follow the tour on November 24th! Two grand prize winners will receive a $10 digital gift card for Starbucks (Open Internationally) and three grand prize winners will receive a digital copy of a Heather Long backlist of their choosing (Open Internationally).

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Direct link:

http://bit.ly/1OmJKl2

About DESERT WOLF:

Title: Desert Wolf

Author: Heather Long

Series: Wolves of Willow Bend #8

Genre: Paranormal/Shifter Romance

Release Date: November 24th, 2015

Publisher: Self-Published

Print Length: 90K

Format: Paperback and Digital

Print ISBN: 978-1-517315-795

Digital ISBN: 978-1-310000-867

Synopsis:

Cassius, Alpha of Sutter Butte, leads the most ruthless and dangerous pack in the United States. A pack comprised of misfits who didn’t fit in their previous packs, cast offs discarded by their packs and forgotten wolves who rose to create a pack more than a century before in utter defiance of the order of the day. Sometimes pitiless and cruel, he wants more for his people than a yearly bloodbath as they fight for a new place, a better spot in the pecking order. To change his pack, means to change himself and he will find rebellion on all sides, not the least of which is his own defiant heart.

Sovvan Stark, Omega of Delta Crescent, lives a cherished, beloved life in the center of her pack, a delicate and hard won balance. Though she is not the only Omega, she is the most experienced with the tremors of pack upset when power shifts from Alpha to Alpha. When her Alpha approaches her about Sutter Butte’s request, Sovvan considers the matter for several long months. While she might hold within her the key to helping the Sutter Butte Alpha, the undertaking could very well kill her.

Accompanied by a single Hound, Sovvan begins a journey to help Cassius rebuild the foundation of his pack, but first she will have to transform him…

Find out more at: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks | ARe

Read an Excerpt from DESERT WOLF

Heat rolled in waves from the blacktop of the old highway. Around him, the desert sprawled in its painted glory, seemingly melting into the horizon where it kissed the sky. The colors streaked past him as he accelerated, blowing past the old trading posts and bypassing the interstate with its smoother surface and promise of civilization in the distance. If one sought to journey through the decades, the old highway east of Holbrook was the place to start.

Sweat slicked his back beneath the leather jacket and the motorcycle vibrated between his thighs. Clocking over a hundred, he barely noticed the machine’s growl echoing his wolf’s. Cassius Lucera del Alba, Alpha of Sutter Butte squinted to catch sight of the town he sought ahead.

Though town was a generous description for the collection of ramshackle structures—of which a filling station with a decrepit market attached and a lone bar were clearly detailed. Time hadn’t forgotten the town, it had left it in the dust by doing a hundred and sixty and never looked back. If the location had a name, no map detailed it, not even Google. The poor bastards didn’t even have a ghost to call their own.

Though they might when he finished.

He didn’t slow until he reached the main drag, all eighty-five feet of it and parked his bike in front of the bar. A handful of vehicles were scattered amongst the cracked pavement and gravel. Three he recognized, two he didn’t. Like the bar, the cars were in sad shape and far more popular in earlier decades. Killing the engine, he dropped the kickstand and slid off his baby. Road dust coated her paint and chrome. With a stroke of his gloved hand over the seat, he promised her a bath later.

Leaving the bike, he strode toward the building. No one moved outside, but one wolf stood inside the filling station. He was a smart wolf, he’d spotted Cassius, yet didn’t reach for a phone or make any move other than retrieving his newspaper and flipping it open.

Inside, the cool air rushed over his sweaty face like a sweet kiss. The scents of stale beer, body odor, remnants of the blood spilled throughout the years, and fear stained the experience. The population of the bar—easily a dozen wolves though Cassius scented at least four more in the back—glanced up from their places scattered around the room. Three played pool, four others huddled around a card game while the rest sat in various spots including two at the bar drinking. A couple in the corner paused with her hand down his pants. The bartender—a tall, broad wolf with a balding pate and a world-weary expression raised his eyebrows in silent inquiry.

“Beer. Cold.” Cassius said, and the bartender nodded. A moment later, he set a tall bottle of Corona on the weathered bar top. The sides frosted and a hint of vapor escaped the top. Condensation formed almost immediately on the sides, slicking along the glass in rivulets.

Stripping off his fingerless gloves first. Cassius set them on the bar. Next, he peeled off his jacket. The old leather moulded him perfectly after the many years he spent wearing it. Only after setting it on the bar next to his gloves did he peel off three one hundred dollar bills and lay them next to the bottle. The bartender didn’t say a word as he took the bills, tucked them into his pocket then locked his register and exited through the double doors behind the bar.

Leaning against the aged wood, Cassius swept the room with his gaze. “If any of you are still sitting on your asses, disobeying the direct orders I sent out when I finish this beer, I’ll kill you.” He didn’t raise his voice. Shouting accomplished nothing. Yelling indicated the battle was lost before it began.

Chair legs scraping across the floor splintered the silence. The couple in the corner disengaged. The she-wolf grabbed her purse as she stood. Boots striking the floor punctuated her exodus. No sooner did the door slam shut behind her than the four wolves playing cards toss them down, abandoning their game. The men muttered, but they divvied the pot, then bowed their heads to him one at a time before hurrying out.

Tipping the bottle up, he took a long pull of the cold drink. It soothed his parched throat. One of the pool players threw down his stick. One of the wolves tried to stop him with a hand on his arm, but he shook it off. Then like the other wolves before him, he hurried out the door.

From nearly twenty to only ten—behind feet stomped on the stairs followed by another door slamming. Make that eight. One of the upstairs wolves strode into the bar, and stood in the center of it. Surprise filled his scent at the emptiness in the room. The others waited, their attention divided between Cassius and Finch.

Stupid fucking name for a wolf. Another long pull from his beer, and Cassius was three quarters finished. One by one he met the gazes of the wolves around the room. The smarter ones lowered their eyes immediately, the dumbasses fought to hold his gaze—even Finch.

Focusing on him last, Cassius studied him. Fresh beads of sweat began to trickle along Finch’s cheeks. The wolf swore, then stomped out and slammed the door with enough force, one of the hinges cracked.

Then there were seven.

Other Books in the Wolves of Willow Bend Series:

WOLF AT LAW

Prequel is available at Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | ARe

WOLF BITE

Book 1 is available at Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks | ARe

CAGED WOLF

Book 2 is available for pre-order at Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks | ARe

CagedWolf300-200x300

WOLF CLAIM

Book 3 is available at Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks | ARe

WOLF NEXT DOOR

ROGUE WOLF

Book 4 is available at Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks | ARe

BAYOU WOLF

Book 5 is available at Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks | ARe

UNTAMED WOLF

Book 6 is available at Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks | ARe

WOLF WITH BENEFITS

Book 6.5 is available at Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks

RIVER WOLF

Book 7 available at Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks | ARe

SINGLE WICKED WOLF

Book 7.5 is available at Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ARe | iBooks

SingleWickedWolf-200x300

About Heather Long:

National bestselling author, Heather Long, likes long walks in the park, science fiction, superheroes, Marines, and men who aren’t douche bags. Her books are filled with heroes and heroines tangled in romance as hot as Texas summertime. From paranormal historical westerns to contemporary military romance, Heather might switch genres, but one thing is true in all of her stories—her characters drive the books. When she’s not wrangling her menagerie of animals, she devotes her time to family and friends she considers family. She believes if you like your heroes so real you could lick the grit off their chest, and your heroines so likable, you’re sure you’ve been friends with women just like them, you’ll enjoy her worlds as much as she does.