Devika Fernando's Blog, page 28

Featured - Book Club Spotlight for "Ponni's Beloved" by Sumeetha Manikandan

The Schedule of the Tour can be seen here 

Ponni's Beloved 
Volume 1. New Floods 
by 
Sumeetha Manikandan






Blurb
Kalki Krishnamurthy’s Ponniyin Selvan is a masterpiece that has enthralled generations of Tamil readers. Many authors have written phenomenal books in Tamil literature after Kalki Krishnamurthy, but Ponniyin Selvan remains the most popular, widely-read novel. It has just the right mixture of all things that makes an epic – political intrigue, conspiracy, betrayal, huge dollops of romance, infidelity, seduction, passion, alluring women, unrequited love, sacrifice and pure love.

Grab your copy @
Amazon.com | Amazon.in | Amazon.co.uk | Kindle Unlimited

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Excerpt


“I have brought important information for all of you. That’s why I asked the noble Sambuverayar to invite us all here. Maharaja Sundara Chola’s health has been steadily deteriorating. I secretly asked our royal physician, and he says that there is absolutely no chance of his health improving. His days are numbered. And it is up to us, to think about the future of the royal throne.”
“What do the astrologers say?” asked one of the noble men.
“Why ask the astrologers? Haven’t you seen the comet that has been appearing in the sky, for the past few weeks? They say whenever a comet appears, there will be death in the royal family,” said another.
“I have asked the astrologers as well, and they say that the king might live for some more time. Anyway, we will have to decide who should ascend the throne next,” said Pazhuvetarayar.
“What is the use of discussing that now? Aditya Karikalan was made the Crown Prince two years ago,” said one of the noblemen.
“True. But before he took that decision, did Sundara Chola consult any of us? We all have stood by the Chola Kingdom with loyalty and have sacrificed our sons and grandsons in the battlefield. Even now warriors from each of our clans have gone to Elangai to fight for the Chola Kingdom. Don’t you think we deserve the right to be consulted about who should be the next heir to the throne? Even King Dasaratha asked his council of ministers, before deciding to crown Rama. But our Sundara Chola didn’t think it necessary to consult anyone…”
About the author

"Sumeetha Manikandan is a top bestselling romance author whose novellas ‘Perfect Groom’ and ‘These Lines of Mehendi’ (which was published as a paperback novel called ‘Love Again’) have been on the top of Amazon India charts ever since its publication. A bookaholic, thinker, feminist and a daydreamer, she reads across genres and is a crazy fan of history, romance and science fiction novels.
An avid reader of historical novels, she has been translating Kalki Krishnamurthy’s classic Tamil novel Ponniyin Selvan for the past ten years and hopes to translate more of his novels to English.
Sumeetha is married to filmmaker K.S. Manikandan and lives with her nine-year-old daughter in Chennai."
You can stalk her @        
               

Climbing The Charts

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Featured - Character Interview with Eric from "Upon Your Love" by Marie Lavender

Some time ago, I had the lovely lady Claudette from Marie Lavender's new historical romance "Upon Your Love" on my blog (you can read the interview here). Today, I'm talking to another character from the book.
​
Character Interview ​Devika: Welcome, Eric. I’m so excited to have you over. Please have a seat.

Eric:  (Bows and sits down.) Thank you for the invitation.

Devika: Eric, I’m curious to find out more about you. What do you do for a living?

Eric:  (His serious lips twist into a smile.) I have served in many roles for the Hill family – valet, butler, personal guard. Several years ago, I was entrusted by Capitaine Hill with the great responsibility of protecting the ladies of the household.

Devika: Interesting. What about your family background?

Eric:  I… (clears his throat) I lost them back in France, when I was a young man. There was an outbreak of influenza. By the time I finally met Grant and became his valet at sea, I began to see him as a friend, at times even like a brother.

Devika: I see. So how did you meet Claudette?

Eric:  (Chuckles.) It was purely Adrienne’s doing…the trickster. Though I’m sure I must’ve met Claudette before whenever she was hired by Grant’s wife, I didn’t entirely notice her until Adrienne, the captain’s daughter, said the woman was infatuated with me. From that moment, especially since the first time I kissed her, I couldn’t stop thinking about Claudette.

Devika: Wow. That sure makes for an interesting story. How did you know she’s the one?

Eric:  How could she not be? No one else could’ve gotten my attention in her kind, subtle ways. Plus, I can’t imagine not having her in my life.

Devika: You strike me as someone who knows what he wants. What gives you your strength? Would you say there was a decisive moment in your life that made you who you are today?

Eric:  Yes. Long ago, Captain Hill offered me the opportunity to be free of my servitude, to choose the life I wanted. But I had a sense our destinies were intertwined somehow, and serving as his friend and employee was an honor. I stayed on, and came to not only respect Grant’s methods, but was fortunate enough to witness as his family grew into who they are today.

Devika: Let’s talk about your dreams and goals in life.

Eric:  I am content doing honest work; I always have been.

Devika: Okay. And what is your greatest fear?

Eric:  (Frowns.) I…cannot lose Claudette. Somehow I must convince her we should be together.

Devika: Tell me, if you could have anything in the world, what would you wish for?

Eric:  Claudette at my side, as my wife. I always secretly wanted a family – whenever I could carve out the time for one – and I’d be the luckiest man in the world if she became mine.

Devika: I’d love to talk some more, but unfortunately our time is up. Thanks so much for stopping by. I can’t wait to see what adventures you’ll have in store for us in the future. *waves*
​
About the Book Blurb for Upon Your Love

The Hill family saga concludes as loyalties are questioned, faiths will be tested and undying love may come at a terrible cost…

Fara Hill, mother and faithful wife, is torn between her family at home and her urge to be at sea. Soon, she learns some disturbing truths. Was the past a fairy tale instead of reality?

Chloe Hill, loving wife and young mother, questions her faith when her husband sets an ultimatum she cannot meet. Will she be able to keep her marriage from falling apart?

Adrienne Bellamont Hill, born of a valiant captain and a fiery redhead, is untamed to her core and will bow to no man. Then Christian du Plessis enters her life with an offer she can’t refuse. Discovering the man behind the polished gentleman, she is drawn to him in many ways. Holding out for love is a family tradition, but can she resist the temptation of passion?

Christian finds this young woman to be a fascinating challenge, and is torn between keeping his distance from her and succumbing to her charms. A fierce battle of wills ensues as he sees she is much more than he ever imagined.

But danger lurks, threatening to destroy everything…

Can these two strong-willed individuals unite in the cause before time runs out?


Purchase Links
Amazon Universal link:  https://bookgoodies.com/a/B06XBPVS7D
myBook.to/UYL
Publisher:  http://solsticepublishing.com/upon-your-love/
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/upon-your-love-marie-lavender/1125931721
Books-A-Million:  http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Upon-Your-Love/Marie-Lavender/9781625265401?id=6842447479054
CreateSpace link:  https://www.createspace.com/6969887 


Trailer: https://youtu.be/UVENg4kOros
​
About the Author ​Bestselling multi-genre author of UPON YOUR RETURN and 21 other books. March 2016 Empress of the Universe title - winner of the "Broken Heart" themed contest and the "I Love You" themed contest on Poetry Universe. SECOND CHANCE HEART and A LITTLE MAGICK placed in the TOP 10 on the 2015 P&E Readers' Poll. Nominated in the TRR Readers' Choice Awards for Winter 2015. Poetry winner of the 2015 PnPAuthors Contest. The Versatile Blogger Award for 2015. Honorable Mention in the 2014 BTS Red Carpet Book Awards. Finalist and Runner-up in the 2014 MARSocial's Author of the Year Competition. Honorable mention in the January 2014 Reader's Choice Award. Liebster Blogger Award for 2013 and 2014. Top 10 Authors on AuthorsDB.com. Winner of the Great One Liners Contest on the Directory of Published Authors.

Marie Lavender lives in the Midwest with her family and three cats. She has been writing for a little over twenty-five years. She has more works in progress than she can count on two hands. Since 2010, Marie has published 22 books in the genres of historical romance, contemporary romance, romantic suspense, paranormal romance, fantasy, science fiction, mystery/thriller, dramatic fiction, literary fiction and poetry. She has also contributed to several multi-author anthologies. Her current series are The Heiresses in Love Series, The Magick Series, The Blood at First Sight Series and The Code of Endhivar Series.

Links:
​http://marielavender.com/
http://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/
http://marielavenderbooks.blogspot.com/
http://marielavender.blogspot.com/
http://www.ambrosiainnovations.com/
https://www.facebook.com/marie.lavender.58
https://www.facebook.com/MarieAnnLavender
https://twitter.com/marielavender1
https://plus.google.com/u/0/+MarieLavender/posts
​​http://www.linkedin.com/pub/marie-lavender/27/187/10a
Amazon author page: Author.to/MarieLavender 
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6938764.Marie_Lavender
http://marielavender1.allauthor.com/
http://authorsdb.com/authors-directory/1578-marie-lavender
http://www.pw.org/content/marie_lavender
http://manicreaders.com/marielavender/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJu8HjRVYCFOqcIoX6ZxdqQ/videos

Featured - Book Blitz for "Find Me at Willoughby Close" by Kate Hewitt

About the BookGenre: Women’s Fiction
Release Date: 14/03/2017
Series – Willoughby Close #3 (can be read as a standalone)
 
Welcome to Willoughby Close… a charming cluster of cozy cottages, each with a story to tell and a happy ending to deliver…

Harriet Lang had the perfect life, so she's left reeling when everything is taken from her in one fell swoop. Suddenly, Harriet learns her beautiful farmhouse in the Cotswolds is double-mortgaged, her husband Richard’s been unceremoniously fired—and he’s become a little too close to his young, sexy assistant.

Harriet moves into Willoughby Close with her three children, trying to hold her head up high. With the help of her neighbor and newfound friend Ellie Matthews, Harriet starts to rebuild her life--but dipping a toe in the dating pool feels strange and meanwhile her children are struggling in different ways. She wonders if starting over is really possible...

Then Willoughby Close begins to weave its healing magic on both her and her children, and Harriet begins to see a way forward. She even starts to date sexy local vet Tom Roberts--but when Richard reappears in her life, wanting to make amends, Harriet must make the painful decision about how much of the past can be forgiven—and what kind of future she is fighting for.
 

EXTRACT
​
“Come on,” Harriet said now, as she climbed resolutely out of the car and gave them all as cheerful a smile as she could. “Let’s check it out.”
     The movers had already come; Harriet had marked what furniture to take from their house to Willoughby Close, and it had been a depressingly small amount. The big, bespoke kitchen table wouldn’t fit, and the huge dresser with all the pottery she’d collected over the years wouldn’t either. In fact, at least two-thirds of their furniture was going into storage, which was expensive, but Harriet couldn’t bear to lose all of it along with the house. They’d need it when Richard got his job, and they bought something bigger.
She’d spent hours and hours, weeks and months, selecting all the furniture for the house, with the help of the expensive interior decorator who had more or less held her hand through the entire process. She’d bought tasteful antiques interspersed with fresh modern pieces, carpets and kilims from various holidays, watercolors and oil paintings of places that were meaningful to them. Sophie had once said, with admiration that bordered on envy, that Harriet’s house could be featured in Country Life. 
And so it would again. This was a blip, damn it. Things were going to get better. Richard was going to find a job, he’d said so, and they’d get back their house or buy an even better house, and she’d live there without him, happy and defiant. Or something like that. She couldn’t picture specifics yet, but she couldn’t stand the thought of the rest of her life looking like… this.
The children trooped silently behind her as she fumbled with the keys and then opened the door to number two. The smell of fresh paint and emptiness hit her like a smack in the face. It was the smell of fresh starts, and she didn’t want one.
She stepped inside, reaching for the lights. Although it was only four in the afternoon it was already getting dark, the skies heavy and low with gray clouds. Spring felt a long way off, despite the fact that it was mid-February, and the spattering of snowdrops interspersed with an early crocus or two that she’d seen on the drive in.
“This is it?” Mallory’s voice rang through the empty space, scornful and incredulous. William kicked at the skirting board, scuffing the pristine white paint. Chloe stuck her thumb in her mouth.
“Yes, this is it,” Harriet said, trying to pitch her tone somewhere between firm and bright. “It’s lovely, isn’t it?”
 
 
BUY LINKS
AMAZON
KOBO
iBOOKS
GOOGLE BOOKS
​
About the AuthorKate Hewitt is the author of over 65 novels of women’s fiction and romance. Whichever the genre, she loves telling a compelling and emotional story. An American ex-pat and former New Yorker, she now lives in a small market town in Wales with her husband and five children. You can learn more about her books and life at http://www.kate-hewitt.com.
 
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/KateHewittAuthor
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/katehewitt1
Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1269244.Kate_Hewitt
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katehewitt1/
Blog: http://www.acumbrianlife.blogspot.co.uk
Website: http://www.kate-hewitt.com
​
Giveawaya Rafflecopter giveaway

Featured - Book Blitz for "The Other Side" by Kaylor Ward

About the Book Genre: Contemporary Fiction
(Jodi Picoult meets Clare Makintosh)
Release Date:  14th May 2017
Publisher: Parker Press Publishing

Lauren is locked in a cell. She knows she shouldn’t be there.
When Lauren and Rick are left an allotment they embark on a lifestyle change that is supposed to bring their step-family closer together. They embrace the chance for a slice of the good life, fresh air and family times together. Lauren and Rick are in love and happy but sometimes their past issues surface. For Lauren it’s the affair that her first husband had before he left her. For Rick it’s the children he was alienated from and forced to leave behind seven years ago.
One day a new family move into a cottage behind the allotment. That day changes everything. That day they start falling apart.
 
Praise for The Other Side
‘A  wonderful new voice in cross-genre women's fiction that will keep you spellbound’ Best-selling author, Catrin Collier
'A thoroughly enjoyable, bittersweet read' Helen Carey

EXTRACT

Prologue
The door shut with a cold, hard slam sending harsh metallic echoes around her. Her eyes shot warily from left to right as she raked her fingers through her hair and tried to make sense of her situation. She was in a cell. She had asked them not to lock her in, but they hadn’t paid her any attention. Where there had been a face a few seconds ago, there was now a slammed metal door with peeling grey paint showing the cracking blue paint beneath. She hated confined spaces. They told her there was a buzzer if she needed anything. Needed anything?
Panic welled in her chest, her throat and her brain as the grey walls and the naked single white light closed around her. Breathe...breathe...slow...down... This was not the place for a panic attack. Not here, not today. She was alone. She had to get through this. Focus...focus... Think yourself somewhere else.
She thought of her daughters, their smiles and their joy. She lay on the hard thin plastic mattress on the concrete bed, and pulled a thin blue blanket over her head to block out the light, to block out the room, and to block out now.
 
BUY LINKS
 
AMAZON UK
AMAZON US
​ About the Author Kaylor Ward, originally from London, now lives in South Wales. She worked for many years as a management consultant and trainer, writing part-time until her first book was published under the name, Michaela Weaver (Manic Mondays). She has studied creative writing at Masters level, and in addition to her writing she is a qualified Writing Coach. Michaela is a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association, and a reader for their New Writers' Scheme. Michaela writes cross genre contemporary fiction with psychological twists often about the darker side of family and domestic life.

​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaylorward
Twitter: @kaylorward
Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16812960.Kaylor_Ward?from_search=true
Website: www.kaylorward.com

Giveaway PRIZES
​
Kindle Fire!
Lolita Wine Glass from Jack’s wine bar
Bottle of vino from Jack’s
Scarf from Puffin Island

JUST FOLLOW THE LINK TO ENTER THE COMP!
http://kaylorward.com/index.php/kaylors-sign-up-contest/
AND, AS IF THAT WASN’T ENOUGH………….There’s a free 6 week novel writing course for everyone run by Kaylor Ward herself! Here’s the link to access it!
http://kaylorward.com/index.php/free-course-lp/
​

Spring into Summer Facebook Book Hop

☆.•°*°•.☆ Welcome to the ROMANCE SPRING INTO SUMMER Facebook Hop hosted by Book Boyfriend Bed Hop & Shannyn Leah ☆.•°*°•.☆

There are 40 authors/bloggers giving away amazing PRIZES, and this hop will run each weekend for the month of MAY!

- 4 Hops (one each weekend)
- 10 Authors in each Hop.
- Altogether over 50 PRIZES including a prize from each author on their Facebook page, 2 grand prize “Gift Baskets” at the end of EACH hop where the winner will get a book from each author (10 books) sent directly to their kindle!

Make sure you visit ALL participating authors to increase your chances at winning some great prizes! Plus, when you make it to the end, you will get the link to the Amazon Gift Card Rafflecopter!

You’re currently on my website for your chance to win a free copy of my 1st royal romance novel The Prince's Special Bride.

Here’s what you have to do to be eligible:LIKE my pageComment below on this post!!!
After you have entered my awesome giveaway, “hop” on over to the next author’s page! You will be visiting Soraya Naomi. Click this link for more chances to win great prizes!!

If you get lost, you can find the entire list of participating author/bloggers here: http://www.shannynleah.com/free-books-and-giveaways.php

Thanks and good luck everyone!

*Facebook is in no way responsible for any of the contests included in this hop*
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Featured - Book Club Spotlight for 'Who Shall I Be Today' by Sunita Saldhana

Blurb
Who Shall I Be Today?
A woman can never be “just” a woman. She is a million people in one person. 
“Who shall I be today?” is a collection of poems that delves into what makes up a woman. It talks of a mother’s love and fears; a woman’s search for herself; the yearnings of the heart for that someone special. It tells of the hurt and pain that love brings, and the courage to pick up the pieces and start over again.
You will find tears and smiles, pain and pride. You will find fear and courage, nostalgia and anticipation. You will find woman in all her avatars.
“Who shall I be today” by Sunita Saldhana is something written from the heart. It is a celebration of womanhood. It is guaranteed to touch the soul of every woman who reads it.


Grab your copy @
Amazon.com | Amazon.in | Amazon.co.uk
About the author

"I am a writer and a trainer. I have been writing for more than 35 years now. Besides writing for my own blog, sunitasaldhana.com, and thequillofthephoenix.wordpress.com.  
At "The Know & Grow Learning Centre", I conduct creative writing workshops and courses as well as work with kids and adults on their life skills.
I enjoy working with special kids and empowering them with skills to overcome their hurdles and to reach their full potential.
Right now I am a retired mom, with both my kids flown from the nest and I am working on publishing a book of my poems."
You can stalk her @     
                       
   This Tour is Hosted by 

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Featured - Book Club Spotlight for 'The Indus Challenge' by R Durgadoss

THE INDUS CHALLENGEbyR. Durgadoss



Blurb
Bharat is in chaos. While the kingdoms fight each other, Alexander’s forces gather for the assault, their leader lured by tales of supernatural weapons and the elixir of immortality. Only one man can save the subcontinent from domination by the Greeks: the young Chandragupta Maurya, trained under the aegis of the ‘dark brahmin’, Chanakya.
When an ancient seal is found, sharing the secrets of the brahmastra, the redoubtable weapon of the Mahabharat, it is up to Rudra, young commander of the Mauryan Nava Yuva Sena and lifelong friend and confidante of Chandragupta, to decode it. Along with his fellow commandos, and with the able guidance of his guru, Rudra embarks on a quest that takes him from the snowy peaks of the Himalayas to the seas of Rameshwaram, hunting the clues that will lead him to the brahmastra. On the way, he meets the Chiranjivis, ancient beings tasked with divine duties, and learns the secrets behind his own birth and his mysterious powers.
But Rudra must be careful, for not all enemies were dispersed with the death of the mighty Alexander. Treachery lurks in the home, and when Rudra is framed for the attempted murder of his sovereign, he must pull every trick at his disposal to reveal the enemy, and save his kingdom from plunging, once more, into bloodshed and chaos.
A historical, mythological adventure story, The Indus Challenge is sure to appeal to readers interested in the storied past of India and the legends woven into its soil.

Read an excerpt of The Indus Challenge here:
Prologue330 bc
The Macedonians and Greeks came with Alexander the Great to the Hindu Kush range. They were mesmerized by the land of the gods, snow-covered, forested mountains higher than Olympus. The sun rising and setting among the glistening peaks painted a breathtaking picture. They were entranced by the stories of the magical kingdoms of the air; of the heavens; of Vishnu and Shiva; of cities in the sky inhabited by sky demons. They were fascinated by the story of Surya, the sun god, who galloped across the sky each day in his golden chariot, pulled by the five horses, while down below in the dark bowels of the earth were giant serpents, red-eyed, flesh-eating demons and other creatures of the underworld.
It was at this time that the people of Bharat were looking inwards, while the Macedonians aggressively explored outwards and wanted to conquer the world. The kingdoms of Bharat were threatened by the aggressive Macedonians. No king or kingdom was free from the aggressor’s attack. Fragmented kingdoms, disunity and distrust among the rulers made these kingdoms an easy target for the Macedonians.
During this period, several events are shrouded in mystery—what brought Alexander to India? How did he die at such a young age? What were the origins of Chandragupta Maurya? How did a young lad of humble origins take on a mighty king? How did a poor Brahmin pundit help a poor young man rise to power from nowhere? What extraordinary powers did Chandragupta possess that made him so successful? Who were his key generals? Who won wars for him? The questions are endless.
There are several seemingly unconnected dots, as the history of this time is shrouded in deep mystery. Rudra effortlessly unlocks the ancient secrets and aligns the unconnected dots. Mystery unravelled; secrets decoded…
In the second avatar (Janam Two) as Rudra during the tumultuous times of Alexander and Chanakya, he offers stunning clues and revelations. His decrypting skills leave a trail that answers several mysteries in our rich history.
At last, Rudra, heading the Nine Unknown Men Army (NUM), has arrived to decode the secrets to save humanity from cataclysm and extinction.
1Parthiva year, 306 bc, Kartika (November) month, Friday evening.
The Massaga fort in the Hindu Kush had surrendered to Rudra, the commander-in-chief of the Mauryan army. He was taking stock of the situation. At this hour, a cry hit his ears. ‘Meri raksha karo! (Please save me from the barbarians!’) A woman’s shrieking voice reverberated against the mountains.
‘Why does this lady cry so?’ asked Rudra, looking curiously at his companion. He turned in the direction from where the voice was coming. To his surprise, he saw two cages in which two persons stood, chained. There was a young woman around twenty-two years old, and in the other cage was a bright young lad.
Rudra looked at the cage closely. The woman was gorgeous, seductive, shapely. Her hair was kohl-black, and cascaded over her shoulders. She had thin eyebrows, velvety eyelashes, sea-nymph ears, a sharp nose, shiny white teeth, almond-shaped eyes and glossy skin.
She was wasp-waisted, and her pouting, luscious lips conveyed her displeasure. Her hips and bust were almost of equal size. Her perfect shape reminded him of many icons of beauty he had seen. Her fleshy rounded back attracted his attention.
Rudra realized that he was going overboard ogling at the young women. But in spite of her beautiful features, she seemed to be a fading flower, possibly due to her weakness and exhaustion.
He turned his head towards the surrendered commander of the opposing army, Dharma Sena.
‘Dharma Sena, who are these caged persons?’ asked Rudra.
‘Forget these idiots, Commander. Let me take you round the fort.’ Dharma Sena said, ‘This is Massaga, the great fort city of the Asvakas, the tribe of horsemen. To the south and west are gigantic rocks which defy climbing. To the east is the swift-flowing mountain torrent, the Masakavati river. This famous fort is situated on a hill 6,000 feet high and has a circumference of twelve miles. At the top of the fort, there is arable land requiring a thousand men to cultivate it. This land is capable of feeding more than 30,000 men indefinitely. There are also perennial springs and reservoirs. Every hill here is a natural fort, Commander. Every man here is a horse soldier, Commander. A mighty rampart of stone, brick and timber surrounds the fort, which also has a moat on three sides and the river on the fourth.
‘Commander, “Masika” means “serpent’s hole”, a name indicating the supposed impregnability of the fort and the valour of its defender.’
‘I realize how impregnable your fort is, Dharma Sena. I had to use my best skills to tame you and your fort. By the way, I am impressed by the seven gates leading to the citadel. Can you give me an overview of your fort, Dharma Sena?’
‘You have sharp eyes, Commander. You noticed our seven gates? I am impressed. Let me show you around.’



Grab your copy @
Amazon.in | Amazon.com | Amazon.co.uk | Flipkart

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About the author

A consistent Top Rank holder and a Gold Medallist throughout his academics, Mr. Durgadoss has had a career spanning 30 years comprising of depth from industry and width from management consultancy as highlights. He has held various senior management positions in top notch companies. Having travelled extensively on consulting assignments, he has interacted with prominent International Bodies like the UNIDO, Investment Bankers and companies held by Professors of Harvard Business School. He has a rare exposure to multiple cultures namely, MNCs, Home grown large groups, family concerns and public sector undertakings during his career. He is blessed with 360 degree analytical skills, which in turn emanates from his all round experience as a Functional head, General manager, Entrepreneur and a Board director. He is an advisor on the board of Directors of several companies benefiting the organizations with his remarkable cross functional skills and his up to date knowledge. Currently he is the Group Director – Finance and Strategy, House of S.T.Bhatia, United Arab Emirates (UAE). In addition he is the chief mentor, coach and Co – Promoter of Icon Management Services (IMS), UAE. Unceasing ‘Value Addition’ and not just ‘Validation’ is the mantra of success for IMS, a multi – disciplinary management consultancy organisation. He has multi-sectoral / cultural/ territorial/ functional exposure with proven track record of success. He is a PhD on Corporate Governance which involves CSR dimensions. He has delivered several lectures in various forums on Character, Competence and Consciousness (3Cs) towards the society and also has several articles to his credit.
Track travelled...
Raising the altitude from a functional entrant to a functional champion, extending his width as a management consultant of a Big 4 firm, he took up the profit centre head position, with a challenging revival assignment in the mid nineties.
Then he moved up to the entrepreneurial mode by taking up the role of a Managing Director of a new venture. Due to several macro economic factors, the venture went into deep trouble. He faced the worst disaster of his life on this venture, losing money, peace and friends, who invested along with him. From the brink of bankruptcy, he fought back to reach the basin of wisdom & wealth in the current assignment as the Director of a large group based in Dubai. The turbulence he went through during this phase tested his character & confidence. Now, along with Dr. Yerram Raju, his co-author, he has penned down this book on Character driven Competence, which elucidates practical ways of ‘Winning without Sinning’. He always says ‘Momentum leaders don’t wait for the waves; instead they build their waves and ride on them’.
After having fought the greatest wars in the deep chambers of his soul, he came triumphant, obtained his PHD in Corporate Governance and now presents the book with the worldly wisdom, gained by him during his career. 
‘Experience is the greatest from of Education’ says Dr. Durgadoss.


You can stalk him @       
                     
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We Promote So That You Can Write 


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Featured - Character Interview with Claudette from "Upon Your Love" by Marie Lavender

Some time ago, I had the lovely leading lady from Marie Lavender's new historical romance "Upon Your Love" on my blog (you can read the interview here). Today, I'm talking to another character from the book.
​
Character Interview ​Devika: Welcome, Claudette. I’m so excited to have you over. Please have a seat.

Claudette:  (Blushes and clenches her hands into her skirt after she is seated.) Ah…thank you for inviting me!

Devika: Claudette, I’m curious to find out more about you. What do you do for a living?

Claudette:  I appreciate your interest. I’m a house maid at the Bellamont Plantation.

Devika: Interesting. What about your family background?

Claudette:  Oh, I married when I was fairly young. My parents passed from this world not too long afterward. I never had siblings, though I always wanted one. I only had my husband, until he was taken swiftly by God. You could say my dear friend Agnès is the closest thing to a sister I’ve had.

Devika: I see. So how did you meet Eric?

Claudette:  Through my employment with the Hill family. He also worked at the estate.

Devika: Wow. That sure makes for an interesting story. How did you know he’s the one?

Claudette:  I struggled for some time with what I felt for him. But I suppose it was his many kindnesses, and the way I grew to trust him.

Devika: Would you say there was a decisive moment in your life that made you who you are today?

Claudette:  I suppose it was that moment in my icy house, while my husband’s body still lay there, and I realized I was quite alone. I knew I needed to move forward, survive somehow.

Devika: Let’s talk about your dreams and goals in life.

Claudette:  I once wanted to run my father’s farm, but now, when that dream isn’t possible, I only wish to be happy, safe and free.

Devika: Okay. And what is your greatest fear?

Claudette:  Sometimes I’m afraid that the past will repeat itself, that I’ve made a terrible mistake. I’m also afraid of losing Eric. He’s been paying all this attention to me. I’m not sure what I would do if I found out it was all a lie.

Devika: Tell me, if you could have anything in the world, what would you wish for?

Claudette:  A family of my own, and preferably to have Eric in my life somehow.

Devika: I’d love to talk some more, but unfortunately our time is up. Thanks so much for stopping by. I can’t wait to see what adventures you’ll have in store for us in the future. *waves*
​
About the Book ​Blurb for Upon Your Love

The Hill family saga concludes as loyalties are questioned, faiths will be tested and undying love may come at a terrible cost…

Fara Hill, mother and faithful wife, is torn between her family at home and her urge to be at sea. Soon, she learns some disturbing truths. Was the past a fairy tale instead of reality?

Chloe Hill, loving wife and young mother, questions her faith when her husband sets an ultimatum she cannot meet. Will she be able to keep her marriage from falling apart?

Adrienne Bellamont Hill, born of a valiant captain and a fiery redhead, is untamed to her core and will bow to no man. Then Christian du Plessis enters her life with an offer she can’t refuse. Discovering the man behind the polished gentleman, she is drawn to him in many ways. Holding out for love is a family tradition, but can she resist the temptation of passion?

Christian finds this young woman to be a fascinating challenge, and is torn between keeping his distance from her and succumbing to her charms. A fierce battle of wills ensues as he sees she is much more than he ever imagined.

But danger lurks, threatening to destroy everything…

Can these two strong-willed individuals unite in the cause before time runs out?


Purchase Links
Amazon Universal link:  https://bookgoodies.com/a/B06XBPVS7D
myBook.to/UYL
Publisher:  http://solsticepublishing.com/upon-your-love/
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/upon-your-love-marie-lavender/1125931721
Books-A-Million:  http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Upon-Your-Love/Marie-Lavender/9781625265401?id=6842447479054
CreateSpace link:  https://www.createspace.com/6969887 


Trailer: https://youtu.be/UVENg4kOros About the Author ​Bestselling multi-genre author of UPON YOUR RETURN and 21 other books. March 2016 Empress of the Universe title - winner of the "Broken Heart" themed contest and the "I Love You" themed contest on Poetry Universe. SECOND CHANCE HEART and A LITTLE MAGICK placed in the TOP 10 on the 2015 P&E Readers' Poll. Nominated in the TRR Readers' Choice Awards for Winter 2015. Poetry winner of the 2015 PnPAuthors Contest. The Versatile Blogger Award for 2015. Honorable Mention in the 2014 BTS Red Carpet Book Awards. Finalist and Runner-up in the 2014 MARSocial's Author of the Year Competition. Honorable mention in the January 2014 Reader's Choice Award. Liebster Blogger Award for 2013 and 2014. Top 10 Authors on AuthorsDB.com. Winner of the Great One Liners Contest on the Directory of Published Authors.

Marie Lavender lives in the Midwest with her family and three cats. She has been writing for a little over twenty-five years. She has more works in progress than she can count on two hands. Since 2010, Marie has published 22 books in the genres of historical romance, contemporary romance, romantic suspense, paranormal romance, fantasy, science fiction, mystery/thriller, dramatic fiction, literary fiction and poetry. She has also contributed to several multi-author anthologies. Her current series are The Heiresses in Love Series, The Magick Series, The Blood at First Sight Series and The Code of Endhivar Series.

Links:
​http://marielavender.com/
http://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/
http://marielavenderbooks.blogspot.com/
http://marielavender.blogspot.com/
http://www.ambrosiainnovations.com/
https://www.facebook.com/marie.lavender.58
https://www.facebook.com/MarieAnnLavender
https://twitter.com/marielavender1
https://plus.google.com/u/0/+MarieLavender/posts
​​http://www.linkedin.com/pub/marie-lavender/27/187/10a
Amazon author page: Author.to/MarieLavender
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6938764.Marie_Lavender
http://marielavender1.allauthor.com/
http://authorsdb.com/authors-directory/1578-marie-lavender
http://www.pw.org/content/marie_lavender
http://manicreaders.com/marielavender/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJu8HjRVYCFOqcIoX6ZxdqQ/videos

Sneak Peek Sunday Snippet from "The Prince's Special Bride"

I haven't shared any romance novel excerpts for a while, so as a treat, this one is a little longer. :-) Have a lovely Sunday!
​
​
​“Your seaplane should arrive any moment now,” Marie assured Liv.
They were standing on the path leading to the shore where the seaplanes and boats usually dropped and picked up guests. Christian stood a few feet away, focused on his phone, his fingers tip-tapping in record speed.
Liv’s face looked calm and composed, but her voice lacked determination when she said “I’ve had my dream come true, haven’t I? Now it’s time to face the music and be who I am supposed to be.”
Marie’s gaze flickered to Christian and back to her new friend. Neither of them showed any signs that they would reveal their real identity to her, and it hurt.
Telling herself not to be foolish, Marie plastered her professional smile on her face. Lack of sleep didn’t make it any easier for her to hold it together. She should be in bed now, catching some rest before her next night shift, but she wanted to see them off in person.
Liv pushed her sunglasses back onto her head and took Marie’s hands in hers. “You’ve been wonderful. I’d never have had this chance without you. I’m not sure how I’ll ever be able to pay back my debt.”
A stab of guilt prodded Marie. Yeah, she’d been wonderful, throwing herself at her friend’s brother…
“Now don’t say anybody would have done it, I know that’s not true,” Liv went on. “You went out of your way to make me happy, and I will never forget it.”
Marie smiled uneasily. “Don’t make me blush. I had a great time too. And I’ll certainly not forget the moments we shared either. Will you…will you stay in touch?”
Liv’s gaze slid to her brother and back, and this time her voice sounded firmer and more like her. “I will. But leave it up to me how and when, will you?”
Marie nodded. Both Olivia and Christian had donned the clothes they’d arrived in, looking formal and detached.
The sound of the seaplane broke the awkward silence. Impulsively, she leaned forward and embraced Liv, and after not even a second of hesitance, the young woman returned the hug and even kissed her on both cheeks.
“You’ve given me memories to cherish and strength to go through with what comes next, Marie. I hope one day I can be there for you when you need me.”
They smiled sadly at each other. “Take care,” Marie said, for want of something more meaningful to say because she suddenly felt as if they were strangers again. The more time ticked by, the more Liv seemed to grow back into whoever she was, not connected to this place and this life.
“Christian,” she called over her shoulder. “Come and say farewell to our friend.”
Her brother lifted his head from his phone, and for a moment, their gazes met. Marie swallowed when his polite mask wavered to show…what? Confusion? Reluctance? Guilt?
He put his phone into his pocket and strode over, holding out his hand. It reminded her of the evening they’d met, when he hadn’t shaken her hand. So something small had changed after all…
“Let me express my thanks as well,” he said, formally and softly, as if nothing had happened between them.
She nodded and forced another smile. “You’re most welcome.”
“Excuse me?” A voice interrupted them, making all three of them turn.
A short, chubby lady with curly white hair and bright, youthful eyes in a wrinkled, sunburnt face beamed at them. “I’m terribly sorry to interrupt, and I don’t mean to be rude, but…Are you by chance the Crown Prince and Princess of Taragonia?”
The look of shock on the siblings’ faces was answer enough.
Marie took an involuntary step back. Royals? They were goddamn royals from somewhere she’d never heard before?
Lord have mercy, what had she gotten herself into?!
While Marie battled mortification and disappointment—Couldn’t they have told her? At least hinted at it? Some nice friends they were!—the two inclined their heads to the exuberant lady from Europa, judging by her accent, from England. Polite to a fault, they inquired about her holiday, gently declined a photo request, and bestowed their blessings.
The seaplane arrived, and Marie continued to watch, frozen to the spot. Liv and her brother—the princess and prince, for Christ’s sake—boarded, the former shooting her an apologetic glance over her shoulder. Marie waved weakly back when she raised a hand in farewell, her mind drawing a blank.
Oh Lord, she had kissed a Crown Prince incognito!

Buy links here.

Featured - Character Interview with Christian from "Upon Your Love" by Marie Lavender

Last month, I interviewed Adrienne, the fascinating heroine of Marie Lavender's latest historical romance novel Upon Your Love. Today, we're going to find out more about the hero, Christian!
​ Character Interview ​Devika: Welcome, Christian. I’m so excited to have you over. Please have a seat.
 
Christian:  It’s a pleasure to be here. Thank you for the invitation.
 
Devika: Christian, I’m curious to find out more about you. What do you do for a living?
 
Christian: It is 1894, a prosperous time for most people. I am not poor in the least, but neither have I danced along on someone else’s dime. Beyond my role as a gentleman in New Orleans society, I am also a private investor for various enterprises.
 
Devika: Interesting. What about your family background?
 
Christian: (The man grimaces.) Ah, only my father and brother are still living. My mother passed when I was a child. I am not close to my family. I left them as soon as I reached my majority.
 
Devika: I see. So how did you meet Adrienne?
 
Christian: (A cocky grin appears on his lips.) It was a favor for a friend. We were at an engagement party for another couple, and I was supposed to introduce my ami to available women. Before I knew it, however, I’d stumbled across Mademoiselle Hill and proposed the notion of matchmaking our mutual friends.
 
Devika: Wow. That sure makes for an interesting story. How did you know she’s the one?
 
Christian: From the beginning, I was curious about her, and that blatant fascination never ended. She is quite unlike any woman I’ve met before.
 
Devika: Let’s talk about your dreams and goals in life.
 
Christian:  I plan to do a lot of traveling, explore the world, at least whenever I can tear myself away from this obsession with Adrienne.
 
Devika: Would you say there was a decisive moment in your life that made you who you are today?
 
Christian:  (A shadow crosses his features, and he brushes a hand through his hair.) I’d like to believe that the maltreatment at the hands of my father made me stronger over time.
 
Devika: Okay. And what is your greatest accomplishment?
 
Christian:  I am a self-made man, and I am proud of that. But beyond that? I think it takes more courage to open your heart than to keep it closed. Adrienne crept into mine without warning. I simply had to learn to take the biggest risk of my life.
 
Devika: Tell me, if you could have anything in the world, what would you wish for?
 
Christian:  A life with Adrienne, if the unusual girl would even deign to have me.
 
Devika: I’d love to talk some more, but unfortunately our time is up. Thanks so much for stopping by. I can’t wait to see what adventures you’ll have in store for us in the future. *waves*
​
About the Book ​Blurb for Upon Your Love

The Hill family saga concludes as loyalties are questioned, faiths will be tested and undying love may come at a terrible cost…

Fara Hill, mother and faithful wife, is torn between her family at home and her urge to be at sea. Soon, she learns some disturbing truths. Was the past a fairy tale instead of reality?

Chloe Hill, loving wife and young mother, questions her faith when her husband sets an ultimatum she cannot meet. Will she be able to keep her marriage from falling apart?

Adrienne Bellamont Hill, born of a valiant captain and a fiery redhead, is untamed to her core and will bow to no man. Then Christian du Plessis enters her life with an offer she can’t refuse. Discovering the man behind the polished gentleman, she is drawn to him in many ways. Holding out for love is a family tradition, but can she resist the temptation of passion?

Christian finds this young woman to be a fascinating challenge, and is torn between keeping his distance from her and succumbing to her charms. A fierce battle of wills ensues as he sees she is much more than he ever imagined.

But danger lurks, threatening to destroy everything…

Can these two strong-willed individuals unite in the cause before time runs out?


Purchase Links
Amazon Universal link:  https://bookgoodies.com/a/B06XBPVS7D
myBook.to/UYL
Publisher:  http://solsticepublishing.com/upon-your-love/
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/upon-your-love-marie-lavender/1125931721
Books-A-Million:  http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Upon-Your-Love/Marie-Lavender/9781625265401?id=6842447479054
CreateSpace link:  https://www.createspace.com/6969887 


Trailer: https://youtu.be/UVENg4kOros
​ About the Author Bestselling multi-genre author of UPON YOUR RETURN and 21 other books. March 2016 Empress of the Universe title - winner of the "Broken Heart" themed contest and the "I Love You" themed contest on Poetry Universe. SECOND CHANCE HEART and A LITTLE MAGICK placed in the TOP 10 on the 2015 P&E Readers' Poll. Nominated in the TRR Readers' Choice Awards for Winter 2015. Poetry winner of the 2015 PnPAuthors Contest. The Versatile Blogger Award for 2015. Honorable Mention in the 2014 BTS Red Carpet Book Awards. Finalist and Runner-up in the 2014 MARSocial's Author of the Year Competition. Honorable mention in the January 2014 Reader's Choice Award. Liebster Blogger Award for 2013 and 2014. Top 10 Authors on AuthorsDB.com. Winner of the Great One Liners Contest on the Directory of Published Authors.

Marie Lavender lives in the Midwest with her family and three cats. She has been writing for a little over twenty-five years. She has more works in progress than she can count on two hands. Since 2010, Marie has published 22 books in the genres of historical romance, contemporary romance, romantic suspense, paranormal romance, fantasy, science fiction, mystery/thriller, dramatic fiction, literary fiction and poetry. She has also contributed to several multi-author anthologies. Her current series are The Heiresses in Love Series, The Magick Series, The Blood at First Sight Series and The Code of Endhivar Series.

Links:
​http://marielavender.com/
http://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/
http://marielavenderbooks.blogspot.com/
http://marielavender.blogspot.com/
http://www.ambrosiainnovations.com/
https://www.facebook.com/marie.lavender.58
https://www.facebook.com/MarieAnnLavender
https://twitter.com/marielavender1
https://plus.google.com/u/0/+MarieLavender/posts
​​http://www.linkedin.com/pub/marie-lavender/27/187/10a
Amazon author page: Author.to/MarieLavender
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6938764.Marie_Lavender
http://marielavender1.allauthor.com/
http://authorsdb.com/authors-directory/1578-marie-lavender
http://www.pw.org/content/marie_lavender
http://manicreaders.com/marielavender/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJu8HjRVYCFOqcIoX6ZxdqQ/videos