C.P. Murphy's Blog: Inside my thoughts!
January 12, 2017
Cover Reveal….
Hello everyone!
Today I wanted to share a new book with you. The author is Zoe Kalo, you might remember that I wrote about her a few months ago and reviewed her book, “Two Graves.” In February, she is releasing “Chameleon.” Here is a blurb:
“An isolated convent, a supernatural presence, a dark secret…
17-year-old Paloma only wanted to hold a séance to contact her dead father. She never thought she would be kicked out of school and end up in an isolated convent. Now, all she wants is to be left alone. But slowly, she develops a bond with a group of girls: kind-hearted Maria, insolent Silvy, pathological liar Adelita, and their charismatic leader Rubia. When, yet again, Paloma holds a séance in the hope of contacting her father, she awakens an entity that has been dormant for years. And then, the body count begins. Someone doesn’t want the secret out…
Are the ghost and Paloma’s suspicions real—or only part of her growing paranoia and delusions?”
Chameleon by Zoe Kalo
Genre: YA/Gothic/Ghost/Multicultural
Word Count: 55,000
Release Date: February 2017
December 12, 2016
Blood Thirsty Elizabeth St. John
Blood Thirsty series by author Elizabeth St. John
Recently, I’ve been contacted by Elizabeth St. John and asked if I would read her first book in the Blood Thirsty series and give an honest opinion. Turns out, I purchased all 5 books and read the entire series all within days of each other. I was hooked! The following review is for the complete series.
Willow is a 200 year old vampire who left her home in Maine. No matter how far away she traveled, or how much time has passed, she could still feel Samuel calling out to her. Samuel was the love of her life- when she was human. After being turned, she fakes her death so he’ll go on with his life. But 200 years later, his voice in her head sounds so real. Her maker, Esmeralda, calls her home. Willow is introduced to Es’s mate of 30 years and his progeny, Caleb. They are immediately attracted towards one another but Willow hesitates. Samuel is still in her head and she feels like she’d be betraying him.
They eventually give into their desires and Willow discovers that Samuel has possessed Caleb’s body to get to her. Caleb’s maker, Ben, confirms that he turned the young man because Caleb was crazed. He hoped it would have rid Samuel from his body but they realize that it didn’t. Now Willow and Caleb are in love but Samuel is there every step they make.
In book two, Possession, Willow leaves Maine but her heart remains with Caleb. She’s called back when Samuel has surfaced and Caleb is chained down to keep Samuel from causing any harm. Samuel reveals a secret about Esmeralda and everyone is upset, especially Ben, who attempts to kill Caleb to destroy Samuel. Willow draws her blood and feeds it to a dying Caleb to save his life and Ben leaves in sorrow for what he tried to do.
In book three, Resurrection, Es’ sister, Elsa comes for a visit. It’s the first time that Willow has ever met her and she’s immediately on guard for her new mate. It appears that Caleb and Elsa has a past though he denies ever being intimate with Elsa. Elsa is also a part of Samuel’s past. In fear that he will return, Es and Elsa place a spell on Willow to protect her from him. Although, Elsa secretly sends Willow to purgatory where Samuel waits for her. While there, trying to escape Samuel, and trying to return to her true love, Caleb, Willow finds help from an unexpected source, her mother. When she returns, she discovers that she had been dead for a whole month.
In Released, book four, Elsa and Samuel have sex via Caleb’s body. Willow finds out and is upset but realizes that it wasn’t his fault, he doesn’t know what is happening when Samuel surfaces. He proposes to her and she agrees. After fighting off Samuel, Willow learns that Samuel is tormenting Elsa in the same way he tormented her. She’s secretly happy that this is happening to her new enemy. She learns that Elsa and Samuel had a past long before she was turned into a vampire. Samuel wants to return to the land of the living, and have a baby with Elsa, who is planning on taking over Willow’s body.
At first I was slightly disappointed in book five, Enchanted, because it starts off in the past and tells the story of Willow and Samuel’s romance. I knew this was the last book in the series and almost thought St. John left us all hanging on whether or not Samuel would be banished. I was wrong, and please don’t stop reading. That was only the beginning of Enchanted. It then picks back up on the nail biting ending that is coming in the Blood Thirsty series. I can’t say how the book ends, just like there are many things that I didn’t include in the review, because you need to read these books. I can’t express how much I enjoyed them, felt like I was there with the characters.
The Bloody Thirsty series is definitely a page turner! I couldn’t stop but once I reached the end, I was sad that it was over. Elizabeth St. John did an excellent job. If you like vampire stories, you have to check these books out. Book one, Blood Thirsty: Homecoming is FREE on Amazon Kindle and here’s a surprise- after reading the first book, there is a link to Elizabeth St. John’s newsletter. Add your email address and you’ll get book two ABSOLUTELY FREE as well! These books are short, but packed with an adventure you’ll never forget. I’m pretty sure if you take a chance on the first two free books, you’re going to want the rest as well!
I was so into this book that I decided to extend this blog and take a moment to focus on Elizabeth St. John. Read her interview, and get links to all her goodies below.
Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Elizabeth St.John author of The Blood Thirsty Series.
CP: Hi, Elizabeth, thank you for agreeing to this interview.
ES: Anytime. Thank you for asking me to do it.
CP: Tell us a little about yourself and your background. Do you write full-time or part-time?
ES:Thanks to my husband, I have been writing full-time for the past 6 years, but I do find other things to do with my time.
CP: How long on average does it take you to write a book?
ES: I think that all depends on the story. There is no real set time limit with writing (unless you have a deadline) I try to allow the story to come out on its own. It could take a week (which I have done for some of my novellas) or even up to a year. You just never know where the story will take you or if the characters take a coffee break. LOL.
CP: How are you publishing this book and why? (*e.g. Indie, traditional or both)
ES: I decided to self- publish the Blood Thirsty Series. I couldn’t wait to share Willow’s story with the reading world. I felt her story was far too intriguing to put on the back burner. Honestly, all of my books are self-published, though I have been traditionally published at one time. Sadly, due to illness, the company closed shop. I now have two stories I’m not sure what to do with. LOL. Only time will tell.
CP: Who edited your book and how did you select him/her?
ES: My editor is April Wood. I met her one night on Facebook. She messaged me out of the blue and I’m glad she did. We just clicked. She is not only my editor, but she is also my best friend, my soul sister, and we have produced several books together under the pen name E.A.Romance. I do not know where I would be without her. She edits all of my work but any indie should ALWAYS go through and read the returned edits. Nobody’s perfect and even famous/well-known authors have typos. (I have read a few)
CP: Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?
ES: I am an indie author and I struggle just like the rest of them. I do not have a marketing strategy or anything. I guess I can suggest getting out there. What I mean is, you have to engage with people in order to be heard or seen. Most of us, I mean authors, are introverts and we HATE being around people. We want to be left alone in our tiny bubble and not be messed with, but that doesn’t get us anywhere does it? Get out there and smile. Get to know people.
CP: What are your ambitions for your writing career?
ES: HA! My friend and I tease about owning islands and yachts but honestly, my ultimate goal is to be able to pay my bills or buy clothes for my kid. I want people to actually enjoy my books and be happy. Life is full of stress. I want to have the ability to touch someone’s world, allow them to escape reality, if only for a few hours. That would be a success to me.
CP: How much research do you do?
ES: That’s easy. NONE! No, really, I do a little bit. If I’m writing about a certain destination or product that I haven’t experienced personally, I will Google it…LOL!
CP: Do you write on a typewriter, computer, dictate or longhand?
ES: I don’t mind writing long hand when the occasion calls for it, but I prefer working on my laptop with a hot cup of coffee and my dog at my side.
CP: Tell us about the cover/s and how it/they came about.
ES: I will try to make this short but the only thing short about me is my height. LOL! I found the first two covers on a stock photo site. One day while sharing the first cover on social media, I was contacted by the cover model on books 1,3,4, and 5. I was shocked. She was super sweet. We are still friends to this day and she is even on the cover of Destine by Design, a romance of mine.
CP: Who designed your book cover/s?
ES:I only use one person for my personal covers. His name is Addam with RitzedollarDesign. http://www.ritzendollardesign.com
CP: Now tell us how we can connect with you!
Website: http://okiechik24.wixsite.com/litetaryes
Blog: http://stjohnbooks.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EliStJohn1980
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorStJohn
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/AuthorStJohn/
Amazon Author Page: http://amzn.to/2g2k55h
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Book Links:
Blood Thirsty Vol.1 (Homecoming) http://amzn.to/2eNzn1n
UK: http://amzn.eu/4RPTJ6J
Blood Thirsty Vol.2 (Possession) http://amzn.to/2gqhaIr
Blood Thirsty Vol,3 (Resurrection) http://amzn.to/2gqhIhv
Blood Thirsty Vol.4 (Released) http://amzn.to/2fbsJAH
Blood Thirsty Vol.5 (Enchanted) http://amzn.to/2f7tJCR
ES: Thank you so much for allowing me to share about me and my work. I enjoyed it very much and look forward to future conversations. Thank you again. If any of the readers are interested in the 1st installment, please visit my website and grab yourself a free ebook copy of Blood Thirsty Vol.1. Links to my other books are also provided there.
Best Wishes and Happy Reading.
November 10, 2016
Author Interview: I.A Ashcroft
Hello all, today I would like to introduce you to author I.A Ashcroft, the author of Raven Song. I highly encourage you to pick up a copy of Raven Song. Here’s her interview. Enjoy!
Give us an insight into your main character. What does he/she do that is so special?
Hi everyone, and thanks for giving me the chance to spend some time with you on this blog!
Raven Song is a split narrative between two characters: the tale starts with Jackson, born in the time period where the story takes place, and later we meet Anna, who was sent there from over a century in the past, though against her will.
Jackson lives in the gray legal area in the post-Bombings New York economy, a smuggler, though he has a certain sense of honor instilled in him by his adopted father. Before being taken in by the Dovetail patriarch, he was a lost orphan on the streets with no memories, and as much as he likes to say that his past doesn’t matter to him (only his future), there’s a lot that he’s lost that haunts him to this day. To start, he exhibits magical potential (often carried through bloodlines), and he can’t really control it. The local magical Order sees his magic suppressed through a potent medication. Secondly, he suffers bizarre nightmares that are almost prophetic in nature, and many of them feature a mysterious godlike figure that seems to want to share something with him. Jackson has many secrets that even he doesn’t know about, and unraveling what he really is and where he comes from is the backbone of his tale throughout the series.
Anna, not unlike Jackson, also has some skeletons in the closet from her past, and she’s also been afflicted with amnesia. She doesn’t know why she’s been ripped from her home time. She doesn’t know why she suddenly has bizarre abilities. She’s never believed in magic before—she’s a scientist. She grounds herself in the rational. But the rational won’t explain why she’s giving off radiation, nor why she seems to float from time to time. Anna’s tragedy is the fact that shortly after she closed her eyes in 2022, an international catastrophe occurred: The Bombings. Nuclear hellfire wiped out the earth she knew, all her family and friends, but somehow, she survived. The truth is, Anna has details about this incident buried in her mind that no one else knows, secrets that would rock the current world government to its core. They’d very much like to see her locked away, for more reasons than one. And her arc is finding the truth, as well as coming to terms with her new life, finding the role she’s meant for in this new world. I like her odds. She’s a survivor, and a woman who desperately wants to leave the world better than as she found it.
Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?
Back when the characters were initially conceived, I did a quick Photoshop mockup of Jackson—I used Cillian Murphy as a base, since he’s a young, fine-bone-structured man with dark hair. I also have to admit, he’s a great actor too, and I think he’d be a good fit beyond just looks. For Anna, I couldn’t find anyone that quite hit what I had in mind at the time, but I don’t suppose you watch Supergirl? That came out in the months since. If Melissa Benoist, the lead, were cast… I would be totally behind it. She has the smile, the face of optimism, and goodness knows, she already knows how to do flying stunts. Anna will never have a cape, but still! Benoist, I think, would give the world a wonderful Anna.
Do you write full-time or part-time?
Honestly, most days, I’m not sure! I have a full-time “day job”, and often I’m writing part-time in any free hours I can scrounge. However, when I’m really in the throes of novel-crafting, I would say I easily hit full-time hours, my second job during the day and weekends, ha.
Do you have a special time to write or how is your day structured?
My special time is between 8:30 and 10:00AM, when most of my ideas hit, right before my workday for my day job starts. I have a little tea-making ritual and everything to get my brain in the mood. It’s the most productive time for me, bar none. That said, I also usually write between 8:30 and midnight, after I get off work, after dinner and all that.
When I do hit my “full time” writing hours, though… I just don’t sleep as much as I should.
Do you aim for a set amount of words/pages per day?
During the first draft of my novel writing, I shoot for 1500 words per day. That changes depending on the intricacy of the chapters involved. During revision, I usually scale that on back to 500 words per day.
What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book?
The hardest thing has been my hitherto unrealized abilities to second guess what a sequel needs! Raven Song had a very good reception. I wasn’t expecting so many readers, so many who told me they loved it as they did! I’m an indie writer with a small budget, after all. Trying to crank out a second story that will measure up to reader expectations, still providing what my fans loved about the first while managing a different setting and some new characters… I can be really, really hard on myself. I’m certain this will make it a great book, though.
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
Raven Song took me 1 year and 8 months. Eclipse of the Sun, the sequel, is coming in at 1 year. Eventually, I want to do a book every 6 months—I’m still learning, still streamlining my process! But I think that’s about the right timing for the fast-paced indie publishing world. Besides, I hate leaving people on cliffhangers for very long.
Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?
Yes—if a scene is giving you trouble, go write a different one. I do that, and then I’ll tell my brain, “Hey, think about this story problem blocking us, and get back to me.” Sometimes, my brain is cheeky and stews for two weeks, only to come back to me at 4 in the morning with some possible solutions. But! While I’m letting it do that, I am making progress in other areas, figuring out other sections of the book, and I find that constant progress is helpful in not letting me beat myself up (which worsens my blocks!).
Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors.
Reading is my favorite hobby besides writing! I love surrounding myself with stories. Neil Gaiman’s strange, mystical tales like Sandman and Anansi Boys are some of my favorites. I’ve also got a soft spot for the charged and fierce poetry of people like Maya Angelou, and epic, dark tales like George R. R. Martin’s.
For your own reading, do you prefer ebooks or traditional paper/hard back books?
It depends! Ebooks let me take risks since they’re cheaper! And… it also helps with my book hoarding problem. When I say I have “books in piles”, I’m not really exaggerating. I’ve been moving over to ebooks much more in the last two years, although I admit, my brain still lights up with happiness when I’m holding a physical book, turning those pages. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to get rid of all of them, nor do I want to.
Who edited your book and how did you select him/her?
I did a good chunk of the editing—usually that sounds bad, but I actually have been a professional editor at several points in my life. However, I didn’t entirely trust this to my own eyes (and no one should, regardless of their experiences!) I’m lucky enough that I have some connections with a couple editors who were willing to look things over, let me know that everything was in order! They tend to work on indie projects anonymously, so I will leave it at that. But bless them; they are lovely people who did great work, and Raven Song hasn’t been noted for any errors so far.
How are you publishing this book and why?
(*e.g. Indie, traditional or both)
This book is near and dear to my heart, and since I was comfortable with the indie book scene (my family self-published several books in the past), I decided to find my readers and build my audience on the indie scene too. Later I will be submitting some manuscripts outside of this series to traditional avenues, and I’m very optimistic on pursuing a hybrid of indie/traditional publishing, but for now I’m indie all the way!
Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?
Yes—get into social media early, even before you have a finished book, and don’t do it with the goal to sell. You’re here to network, make connections, and make friends! Find other people who write in your genre and talk! Share ideas! Message people and ask questions! Find readers and get recommendations! I’ve met some awesome people through networks like Twitter and Goodreads, some of them brilliant writers and readers that are a privilege to chat with. But don’t burst onto the social media scene like the Kool-Aid man with book buy links in hand and expect your story to sell of its own accord. That looks spammy and tacky.
By the way—this is also an invite to connect with me on your fave network, too! I’m always happy to chat with other writers and readers. Always.
Where can you see yourself in 5 years time?
The four books of my series, Inoki’s Game, will be finished, and I hope many of the people reading this interview can be there with me! I also have a wry heaven/hell comedy that I hope to be shopping around to agents at about that time, and the start of a New Adult series, sci-fi/fantasy like Inoki’s Game, also planned for indie publishing.
But where I want to be most of all? Just writing, as both my day and night job. If the series really digs in and takes hold, that will make my dream possible.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
I’ve heard from many aspiring writers who tell me about their ideas, their brilliant, dangerous, wonderful ideas. If only, they say, they had the time or constant inspiration to write a book. I can tell you right now: the world would love so many of your ideas. That book inside of you, though, won’t ever be on the outside unless you devote the time and the effort to it. Many people try for a few weeks or so, and then give up because it can be hard work. Or, they make it for a couple chapters, and then hit a wall, wondering if they should just give up. The thing to realize is that inspiration doesn’t strike very often. So, typically, you just have to roll your sleeves up and forge ahead, with or without the muse, whether or not you think the resulting words are very good. You need to show up like it’s a job, every day, coffee in hand, even if you don’t want to be there. But when you look back, you’ll have work done, and you’ll find gems in it. You’ll find that story you want to tell taking form. So write! Make it a habit! Squirrel away your spare time and devote it to creation! There are plenty of people who will want to read that book you have inside of you, and making it is possible for almost anyone, so long as they put in the work.
I hope to see all of your stories someday soon!
Website: ia-ashcroft.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/i.a.ashcroft/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ia_ashcroft
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/I.-A.-Ashcroft/e/B01CTY42S0/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1
Book Links: (* American, UK, etc.)
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Raven-Song-Dystopian-Fantasy-Inokis-ebook/dp/B01CTUSPTG
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Raven-Song-Dystopian-Fantasy-Inokis-ebook/dp/B01CTUSPTG
Audible: http://www.audible.com/pd/Fiction/Raven-Song-A-Dystopian-Fantasy-Audiobook/B01G7QSQ6K
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/I_A_Ashcroft_Raven_Song?id=m5-4CwAAQBAJ&hl=en
Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/raven-song
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/reviews/raven-song-i-a-ashcroft/1123510684
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29521339-raven-song
Name: Raven Song
Series: Inoki’s Game (Book 1)
Paperback: 290 pages
Published Date: March 14, 2016
Publisher: Lucid Dreams Publishing
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1944674004
ISBN-13: 978-1944674007
November 1, 2016
Cate Beauman spotlight!!!
Ethan Cooke Security and their bodyguard team return to action in Deceiving Bella – book eleven in Cate Beauman’s Bodyguards of L.A. County series.
With over 7700 reviews and a 4.4 rating for the entire series, see why the Bodyguards of L.A. County is a multi-award winning series.
Buy It Now!
New to the series? No problem! Each book in the “Bodyguards” series is a stand-alone title. Although reading the books in order is preferred, it is not necessary. Each title features brand new primary characters and limited overlapping secondary characters. Don’t hesitate to jump right in!
Isabella Colby has always yearned for normalcy. Now that she’s settled in LA, she finally has it. Good friends, a pretty home, and her thriving career as the Palisades’ top skincare specialist are a dream come true. Bella is content until she meets her hunky new neighbor, but her attraction to the blue-eyed cutie is the least of her worries when contacting her long-lost father threatens to destroy her happy life.
Reed McKinley is more than ready to forget the past. His seven-year stint as an NYPD detective nearly got him killed. His wounds have healed and he’s starting over as Ethan Cooke Security’s latest recruit. With sixty-hour workweeks and little time to himself, the last thing on his mind is a relationship. Then he bumps into the gorgeous woman next door.
Reed and Bella become fast friends. Before long, Reed discovers that Bella is keeping dangerous secrets. Bella may have the answers to decades-old questions he’s been searching for. Reed will risk it all to uncover the truth, but he soon realizes that the deeper he digs, the direr the consequences.
The Unofficial Deceiving Bella Soundtrack
I love music! I can’t imagine a world without catchy tunes playing, especially when I’m writing. Music is inspiration. Melodies, beats, and the mood of each song help me portray emotions and feelings as I tell a story. It’s a rare day when I don’t have my headphones in place, bopping my head, while my fingers race across the keyboard. You can listen to the “soundtrack” for each book on my website www.catebeauman.com.
The soundtrack, of sorts, for Deceiving Bella:
• Favorite Song by Ben Rector
• Lay It All On Me by Rudimental w/Ed Sheeran
• Into You by Ariana Grande
• Cake by the Ocean by DNCE
• Truth by Steve Moakler
• Any Other Name by Thomas Newman
• Rock Bottom by Hailee Steinfeld
• All I Want by Kodaline
• Crash by Usher
• Stand By You by Rachel Platten
Cate Beauman “Fun Facts!”
1. Most of my story ideas come from watching hours of crime television/documentaries.
2. Music is a major part of my writing process. Great songs are very motivating—kind of like when you find an amazing jam to exercise to.
3. I like to try recipes I think my characters would want to eat.
4. I often dream that my finger is stuck on the delete key or that I’m rewriting scenes that are perfectly fine.
5. When I’m writing the first draft of a new book, I hardly sleep.
6. My husband reads every word I write and critiques my stories.
7. When I get writer’s block I take a shower. For some reason it seems to get ideas flowing again!
8. I usually fill an entire spiral notebook with additional ideas for a story by the time I’ve completed a novel.
9. At some point during each novel, I’m certain I don’t want to be a writer any more. Then I finish the book and I can’t imagine doing anything else.
10. I keep notebooks in my car, purse, etc. because I never know when an idea will come to me.
Read an excerpt from Deceiving Bella:
They kept a slow pace, strolling in silence as the breeze plastered their clothes to their bodies and the constant sound of waves hypnotized, lulling Reed into relaxing by degrees.
“Thanks for coming with me tonight. It’s nice having company.”
He looked at Bella, staring at the fading light playing off her eyes. “The water smells better than a bunch of sweaty guys.”
“Your gym.” Her brow creased ever so slightly as she held his gaze. “What do you do for fun?”
“Work and box.”
“Sounds…like a good time.”
“I like it.”
“Do you smile?”
He frowned. “Huh?”
“I was wondering if you ever smile—or laugh. I haven’t seen you do either since we met.”
He sent her an exaggerated grin.
She laughed.
He smiled for real this time, finding her laughter infectious.
“You do smile. I wasn’t sure if you had some sort of facial paralysis we hadn’t discussed yet.”
He grinned.
“You should do that more often.” She hooked her arm through his.
He almost missed a step as the warmth of her skin met his, surprised by her casual gesture. He wasn’t used to people being so touchy-feely. “I do it plenty.”
“I’ll have to take your word for it.”
How was it possible she smelled even better now that they stood so close? It had to be her hair. “I don’t know what to say to that.”
She stopped abruptly. “Are you seeing anyone?”
He studied her, not sure that he liked where this was going. “No. You interested?”
She shook her head. “You’re not really my type.”
He tried to ignore the direct hit to his ego. “You’re not mine either.”
Another smile warmed her face. “I think we could be great friends, and I like projects—love them, actually.”
His frown returned. “And that means…”
“It means I like you. And I love that you don’t seem to have any interest in getting into my pants.”
Years of concealing any and all facial expressions kept his eyes from popping wide. “Wow.” He ran his hand through his hair, speechless once again. “Okay.”
She laughed. “I’m a big fan of honesty—putting it right out there.”
He chuckled as he settled his sunglasses on top of his head. “Clearly.”
They started walking again.
“There’s something about you that feels…safe.”
He raised his brow, taken aback. He’d been called many things, but this was a first. “Safe?”
She nodded. “Safe. It’s a good thing, but you’re pretty serious. We need to lighten you up. You need to play more.”
“I play plenty. I box.”
She scoffed, “Beating someone’s face in can’t lead you down the road to happiness.”
Her side brushed his with every step. He imagined he should ease away, break their connection, but he liked the way she felt, that she trusted him. “There’s more to boxing than beating someone’s face in.”
She looked at him as if she wasn’t so sure.
“I’ll have to show you—”
He glanced over his shoulder when he realized they hadn’t seen Lucy for a while and laughed as the dog lay on her back in the sand with her front paws in the air. “What is she doing?”
“Sunbathing.”
He laughed again, shaking his head. “I’ve never seen anything like that.” His eyes met Bella’s as she stared at him. “What?”
“You have a great laugh.”
To his surprise, he was having a great time. It shocked him further that he liked Bella as much as she seemed to like him. Being here with her was exactly what he’d needed. “How long do you want to stay?”
“The sun sets soon. It’s the best part.”
The sand wasn’t bothering him much, and he couldn’t remember the last time his shoulders felt so loose. “I don’t have a blanket.”
“We can sit on our shoes.” She tossed hers down. “We can plunk ourselves right here.”
Lucy rolled to her side, stood, and ran their way.
He shrugged, dropping his flip-flops to the ground. “I guess this is as good a place as any.”
“It’ll be spectacular.” She took his hand, pulling him down next to her. “You won’t regret it.”
“We’ll have to remember a blanket next time.”
She smiled. “You want to come back?”
He stared ahead, petting Lucy when she curled up next to him, breathing in Bella with each inhalation. “I could see myself doing this again.”
She gave his shoulder a bump. “Good. You can be my beach buddy.”
He nodded, liking the idea. “Yeah, sure.”
“Great.”
“Great.” He crossed his ankles in the sand, his foot brushing Bella’s as they settled in to enjoy the show. It had been too damn long since he watched a sunset.
Did you enjoy the excerpt? You can read the first chapter on my website, www.catebeauman.com, or you can finish the whole book with the links below!
About the author:
International bestselling author Cate Beauman is known for her full-length, action-packed romantic suspense series, The Bodyguards of L.A. County. Her novels have been nominated for the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award, National Indie Excellence Award, Golden Quill Award, Writers Touch Award, and have been named Readers Favorite Five Star books. In 2015, JUSTICE FOR ABBY was selected as the Readers’ Favorite International Book Award Gold Medalist, while SAVING SOPHIE took the Silver Medal. SAVING SOPHIE was also selected as the 2015 Readers Crown Award winner for Romantic Suspense and FALLING FOR SARAH received the silver medal for the 2014 Readers’ Favorite Awards.
Cate makes her home in North Carolina with her husband, two boys, and their St. Bernards, Bear and Jack. Currently Cate is working on her twelfth full length romantic suspense novel.
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October 11, 2016
The Enchantress by Ally Capraro
Ally Capraro has done it again! First we are introduced to Ava Davenport, an Earthling who discovers her heritage is from another world, in The Descendant. Now we follow Ava’s adventure in Lapo in The Enchantress.
What is supposed to be a happy time in her life- planning her wedding with Maldrich- turns out to be another battle. This time there are two enemies to fight, the Xemlix and the Enchanted. In book one, the Lapo people have fought against Xemlix to save human kind on Earth. This time the Xemlix are working hand in hand with the Enchanted. Although Maldrich and his men are familiar with the Enchanted, they cannot see them. Ava can and it’s up to her to battle them.
In The Enchantress, Ava falls under their spell and is becoming an Enchanted herself. She becomes a different person, full of rage, and if she can’t fight it off, she risks becoming one of them.
I give The Enchantress 5 stars and can’t wait to read more from Ally Capraro.
Other places to follow Ally Capraro
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October 3, 2016
Two Graves by Zoe Kalo
I was given this book to read in exchange for an honest opinion. Two Graves is a short novella, but don’t let that fool you. It has a powerful punch! Angelica has plotted revenge against the much loved Maestro and seeks it during a masquerade party. Seven years prior, she lost her son. In the book, Maestro says, “A mother’s love is an aberration solely for the continuation of the species.” Angelica’s love for her son never dies.
The novella takes you through an after party, disguised as a masquerade. The whole thing was dark and almost felt psychedelic as Angelica goes from one room to the next while seeking her revenge. For each room she steps in, there’s another encounter. Zoe Kalo made it feel like I was right there at the party.
I’m not completely sure where I stand with this book. I liked it. I didn’t like it. Both. Two Graves is a psychological suspense and that is probably the problem I have with it. I’m open to read almost all genres but this is the first time for this one, for me. It just took me a couple of reads to ‘get it.’ This doesn’t mean that the novella isn’t good, it just means that I am torn whether it’s for me or not.
My indecision on the book has nothing to do with the author or her writing. She did a great job crafting this story and I do encourage you to read it. In fact, this is just book one- there is more to come and yes, I will be reading more.
Title: Two Graves (Retribution Series #1)
Author: Zoe Kalo
Genre: Dark Psychological Suspense
Audience: New Adult/Adult
Word count: 18,000 words – 70 pages (short novella)
Launch date: October 1st 2016
Visit Zoe on GoodReads
Purchase on Kindle
About Author Zoe Kalo
A certified bookworm, Zoe Kalo has always been obsessed with books and reading. Reading led to writing—compulsively. No surprise that at 16, she wrote her first novel, which her classmates read and passed around secretly. The pleasure of writing and sharing her fantasy worlds has stayed with her, so now she wants to pass her stories to you with no secrecy—but with lots of mystery…
A daughter of adventurous expats, she’s had the good fortune of living on 3 continents, learning 4 languages, and experiencing a multicultural life. Currently, she’s working on a Master’s degree in Comparative Literature, which she balances between writing, taking care of her clowder of cats, and searching for the perfect bottle of pinot noir. She is the author of the YA fantasy series CULT OF THE CAT.
Read more about Zoe on her website. click here!
September 29, 2016
My rebuttal on Amelia’s Story
**INSPIRED BY ACTUAL EVENTS**
I’ve read some of the reviews posted on Amelia’s Story and I just wanted to take a moment to point some things out to the readers and explain what’s going on in my head.
This story was published in 2013. I was too hasty and knew it, it had errors. But I was busy with life, took a little time away from writing, and never got around to fixing the things that got over looked. Then recently, I started planning a reboot on the book. Until recently, nobody even knew this book existed. I had made a couple of connections, put my head together with theirs and we had ideas for Amelia’s Story to come back to life.
I made the electronic version FREE because I wanted those people to download it and begin working on editing from different views. I honestly didn’t expect what was about to happen. What was free for a couple of people, turned out to a lot of downloads. As of the time that I’m writing this note, over 18,000 copies have been downloaded! Wow, who would have thought. (Yes, the people who I intended to receive it, did, plus some!) Amelia’s Story has since then peaked in the top 100 free Kindle books, and then lingered between 300-400.
Now of course with so many downloads, comes bad reviews. To those who reviewed badly for editing- if I ever thought so many people would have seen the book, I would have gone about it a different way. Yes, you were right. I knew this long before you did. You just happened to buy the free book before I could stop you. However, thank you. It didn’t matter how many bad reviews came in because the number of downloads everyday astonished me. Guess the good over ruled the bad. It was never intended to reach the public in such a way that it did, but I’m not complaining.
As for the people who gave the book bad reviews because they didn’t like the story. Well, there’s a whole other story that you need to know.
“Amelia’s Story” is fictional but inspired by a girl, much like Amelia, and her story is as real as it gets. Her name was Sally Hamilton. This is her story, in fiction to make it a little more interesting to readers. Sally lived in my hometown. When I was younger, my father spent many hours/many days taking care of an old grave. He’d pull weeds, cut grass around it, and bring flowers. One day I asked him why. He told me the story of Sally Hamilton, and I cried. I asked how he knew the story. He told me it has been said from generation to generation, and showed me a local history book that printed her story. Her case was cold. Over 200 years later and never solved. He said it was up to me to continue the story so that everyone in my hometown would know her, and know what happened.
Fast forward about 20 years later when the writing begun. I wanted to tell more than just the people of my hometown. I wanted to tell the world. But, there aren’t enough written details of Sally. I found a couple of reports, but definitely not enough to make a novel out of it. That’s where the fiction part comes in. I made up the town, envisioned my hometown. I made up the plot. But I didn’t make up the ending. I built the character around how generations described Sally. A kind person who would help anyone out. I had to change somethings to make this Amelia’s story and not just Sally’s. Sally was the daughter of a magistrate, Amelia the daughter of an apothecary.
I kept as many details as close to the real story as possible. Sally had a large family, so does Amelia. The evidence found at the crime scene, all found in the real crime scene. Even the old man neighbor who said the wind was howling, that happened in real life. There were 3 trials in the murder of Sally Hamilton- one for insanity, one from testimony told from one friend against the other, and one of perjury. Amelia’s Story has 2 trials; the perjury was just thrown in for a dramatic effect. The rumors of Army men in the area on the night of August 25, 1813 still buzz around my hometown to this day. When talking to the older generations, they believe my final outcome is what happened. Yes, maybe I have fictionalized the killer a bit. What is a good book if the villain isn’t larger than life?
I have read a few of the reviews that said they didn’t think it was believable. Why? Conspiracies have been around since the beginning of time. Why not in this book?
One review in particular said that I didn’t know what I was talking about. This review said that the War of 1812 did not have a “Major General.” Yes, it did. In fact, President Andrew Jackson was one. (No, the character in my book has nothing to do with him- I’m just stating that yes there were Major Generals.) There weren’t many officers of this position but there were some! Amelia’s Story is the fictional version of the true story, so anything is possible in fiction- even having a character be a major general. This reviewer also stated that the war ended in 1814, not 1815. That is arguable. The last battle might have been fought in 1814 but the official end of the war was February 18, 1815. However, it doesn’t matter. I didn’t state an exact date in this book. I started part 3 by saying the spring of 1815 brought an end to the war and Patrick Buchanan home. Yes, in those days it would take a foot soldier months to return home.
A lot have said they didn’t like the ending, wasn’t worth the time it took them to read it. Well I have to agree with them. I don’t like the way Sally Hamilton’s story ended either. Who would? She was an innocent girl taken too soon. There wasn’t a definite outcome, her case is cold. I for one would love to know the truth. Don’t like the ending of the book? I think you wouldn’t like the ending of the true story even more.
For those many people who already downloaded the book, I doubt you’ll be able to see this. If by chance you do, you’ll know why the story is the way it is. And, you’ll possibly forgive an author for having too many errors. I can’t express enough how I never imagined so many would download the book and read it before I had the chance to change it.
For those who haven’t read it and are thinking about downloading the e-book, or purchasing one of the other formats- I hope that my words help you to understand exactly what you’re about to get into. This is inspired by actual events. I hope you like it.
Amelia’s Story is still going strong. I never intended to make money off of it, even now that it has been edited (again) it’s still free for e-book readers. I wrote this book to tell Sally’s story, although in fiction to make it an interesting read. I never once said that this book was my finest work either. But it’s a story so close to my heart.
As for the editing that was done. Spelling, grammar, and writing style have been checked and cleaned up. There are some ‘wording’ that has not changed strictly because the audio version is already in its final stages and I didn’t want the book that much different from the audio.
Get Amelia’s Story FREE here!
September 13, 2016
The Stranger by Anna del Mar
The Stranger- Anna del Mar
Summer in Alaska? I was immediately pulled into this story when Summer Silva, a native of Miami, finds herself stranded in the harsh Alaskan elements. She travels to Alaska, unprepared, to search for her sister, who ran away with a man she’d met on the internet. Summer crashes her rental, dressed wrong for the weather, and walking in hopes to find some help.
Seth is an angered Army Vet with pains of his own. Driving home, he finds Summer stumbling in the road and is immediately enraged. Seth thinks she’s a trap, set up by his greedy cousin Alex, who is after Seth’s position in the family business. He picks Summer up but demands that she tell him who she’s working for. She explains what she’s doing in Alaska but he’s not buying it. Instead he takes her home for the night, until the storm passes, where he’ll investigate Summer Silva for himself.
That night, Summer and Seth have a night of passion. I have to admit that I almost stopped reading at that point. I thought it was extremely out of character. Up until then, Summer was strong, independent, and on a mission to find her sister. There was no believable way that she’d be seducing the stranger. But, I continued reading and I highly recommend that you do as well. Although it seemed uncharacteristic, I realized that I haven’t yet known the real Summer at all. After that night, all her deep secrets are revealed and suddenly everything makes sense.
So now you know there is sex in this book. I hope you’re not surprised, it is, after all, a romance.
All leads to Summer’s sister end up with nothing, and Summer is forced to stay in Alaska. By now, Seth has found out all that he needed to know about Summer to make him want to get to know her better. He also learns that someone tried killing her that first night. There’s no way that he’s going to allow her to stay anywhere else. It’s his desire to protect her, although she doesn’t believe her car accident was a hit on her.
Together, they search for her sister. Together, they are starting to get to know each other deeper than anyone else ever has before. From the start, Seth wants to make Summer his and isn’t afraid to tell her that. But, Summer isn’t interested. Her only thoughts are on finding her sister, taking her home, and getting back to the life she is used to.
This whole book leaves you asking things like; where is this sister, who’s trying to kill her, and what is Alex doing next to corrupt Seth’s name and business? In the end, all is answered and The Stranger ends the way I hoped it would.
If you’re looking for a good romance, with a bit of military background- read the Stranger. The characters are real, the pace is fast, and you will be hungering for more. Great read, thanks Anna de Mar!
Find more on Anna del Mar:
website: www.AnnadelMar.com
email: Anna@AnnadelMar.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorAnnadelMar
Twitter: www.twitter.com/Anna_del_Mar
August 5, 2016
Review- My Own Mr. Darcy
My Own Mr. Darcy by Karey White
I came across this book and couldn’t help but want to read it. I’m a Jane Austin fanatic and love all her work. I once wanted my own Mr. Darcy as well, so I adopted a bird and named him that. But, I was skeptical because Pride and Prejudice is one of my favorites and I was afraid this book was going to be some kind of spin off. I was wrong, so very wrong.
Elizabeth reluctantly watches the movie with her mother and best friend, then becomes obsessed with it. It’s her dream to wait for a man that fits Mr. Darcy’s image. Not just any Mr. Darcy but one that looks like Matthew Macfadyen- and who could blame her, he was the best looking Mr. Darcy that Hollywood could find.
Her best friend, Janessa, tries to bring her back to reality. When Elizabeth meets Chad in a grocery store, Janessa encourages her to date him ten times before giving up on him. In walks Matt, her perfect Mr. Darcy look alike. Not only does he look like the part, he plays it as well. Elizabeth is on cloud nine!
I felt for both the men in this story. For Chad, who didn’t deserve what happens to him. For Matt, who also didn’t deserve what happens to him. However, I am very happy for Elizabeth who followed her dreams and we are to assume she lives happily ever after.
As an author myself, I found My Own Mr. Darcy to be a little predictable. Or maybe it’s because I dreamed of this story too- finding my own. But, Karey White has given Elizabeth all the romance she ever wanted. Elizabeth found someone who spoiled her with affection, stayed by her side, paved her future, and loved her unconditionally.
Was it Chad? Or was it Matt? I can’t tell you that. You’ll have to get a copy yourself, you won’t be disappointed. And if you haven’t seen Pride and Prejudice yet, what are you waiting for? Click the picture below to order your copy of My Own Mr. Darcy and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
To learn more about Karey White:
July 14, 2016
Win on Amazon today!
I am giving away copies of St. Matthew’s House on Amazon.com. If you don’t have a copy yet, enter for a chance to win.
See this #AmazonGiveaway for a chance to win: St. Matthew’s House: A Paranormal Romance Novella (Kindle Edition). https://giveaway.amazon.com/p/bf637fb... NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Ends the earlier of Jul 29, 2016 11:59 PM PDT, or when all prizes are claimed. See Official Rules http://amzn.to/GArules.
Good luck!
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