Devika Fernando's Blog, page 71
April 1, 2015
Blogging from A to Z Challenge - Letter B (Broken Heart)
My choice for the letter B is BROKEN HEART, something that seems to be linked inextricably with love.First of all, here’s what the ever resourceful Wikipedia has to say on the topic of heartbreak / heartache: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broken_heart
As a romance novelist, I find heartbreak fascinating. It’s a perfect theme to include in a book. Many stories begin with a protagonist whose heart was recently broken, which makes them do things they normally wouldn’t – and snap-bam! they meet their perfect partner. At other times, the heartache might lie in the past and was so intense that it still makes it difficult for the character to warm up to others and date again. This is the case with Nadia, the heroine from my contemporary romance novel “Kaleidoscope of Hopes”.
I want to look a little closer at reasons for, symptoms of and cures for a broken heart:
5 reasons for a broken heart
- unrequited love (my topic for the letter U)
- forbidden love (my topic for the letter F)
- the partner cheated
- a huge fight resulting in breakup / divorce (or a death)
- an abusive relationship (the theme of my debut “When I See Your Face”, which is available for free)
9 symptoms of a broken heart
These may vary depending on the person, the reason for the heartbreak and the intensity of it. There are many more signs that someone is lovesick, but you’ll get the picture…
- crying
- sleepless nights
- withdrawing into oneself
- fighting with the partner and everyone else
- begging the partner to give the relationship another chance
- binge-eating or loss of appetite
- feeling empty, lonely and worthless
- an actual ache in the chest region that coined the term heartache
- a vow never to fall in love again
11 ways to mend a broken heart
- face the truth and accept it
- confront the partner
- make a clean cut and put it all behind
- date actively, maybe try something exciting like a blind date
- distractions like music, going out, spending time with friends
- comfort food like chocolate
- list your strengths and learn to love yourself
- create a goal and a deadline to reach it (not necessarily dating-related)
- fantasize to picture yourself with someone else / in a perfect relationship
- help someone else
- read about the topic or read to forget
How about you? Any tips?
This post is my contribution to the 2015 Blogging from A to Z Challenge.
March 31, 2015
Blogging from A to Z Challenge - Letter A (Attraction)
This year I've decided to be part of the awesome Blogging from A to Z Challenge in April. My theme for the daily posts is LOVE. For the letter A I have chosen the topic Attraction, and I'm sharing a poem I wrote a while ago.
A for Attraction
Attractive distraction
All of a sudden, distraction
Turned into sweet attraction
In the fatal fraction
Of a facetious second
From stopping to look at you
I found out that now
I can’t stop looking at you
From being amused by you
I’ve turned to musing about you
You’re now almost my muse
I was watching you from the corner of my eyes
And now I’m the one who’s cornered
By the look on your face when you stare into my eyes
How come that without my doing
You turned around and into something else
Becoming my interest without further a-do
There was only innocent conversation
Flirtatious jokes on the tip of our tongues
Now shared in a tongue-twisting lip talk
There was only the occasional friendly touch
A hand on an arm, a peck on a cheek
Now I can’t bear you touching anyone else
Had I known before
What was lying in store
That I’d be in love to the core
That you could be so much more
I wouldn’t have let you distract me
Let alone let you attract me
Wouldn’t have wasted this fraction of time
Would have or wouldn’t have
Attempted not to be tempted
By such an attractive distraction, distractive attraction
© Devika Fernando
A for AttractionAttractive distraction
All of a sudden, distraction
Turned into sweet attraction
In the fatal fraction
Of a facetious second
From stopping to look at you
I found out that now
I can’t stop looking at you
From being amused by you
I’ve turned to musing about you
You’re now almost my muse
I was watching you from the corner of my eyes
And now I’m the one who’s cornered
By the look on your face when you stare into my eyes
How come that without my doing
You turned around and into something else
Becoming my interest without further a-do
There was only innocent conversation
Flirtatious jokes on the tip of our tongues
Now shared in a tongue-twisting lip talk
There was only the occasional friendly touch
A hand on an arm, a peck on a cheek
Now I can’t bear you touching anyone else
Had I known before
What was lying in store
That I’d be in love to the core
That you could be so much more
I wouldn’t have let you distract me
Let alone let you attract me
Wouldn’t have wasted this fraction of time
Would have or wouldn’t have
Attempted not to be tempted
By such an attractive distraction, distractive attraction
© Devika Fernando
March 30, 2015
Featured - New Release - Viva Pann Vegas by Amanda Ward
I can finally feature an amazing author friend with a new release again... been suffering from withdrawal symptoms on my blog. ;-) Ladies and gents, give it up for this fantastic novel by Amanda Ward, "Viva Pann Vegas"!
About the Book
TAGLINE
Getting plastered at a wedding is the sign a good time has been had, but not when it’s the bride!
BLURB
The fun and games continue as Pann Haggerty travels around America with her ‘average’ Joe on their way to Las Vegas. This time, Joe thinks he’s the one in charge, and able to handle his beloved quirky English rose.
Apparently not. Surprises, secrets and wedding bells are in store. Has Pann given Joe the answer to his big question? Read on in the second MisAdventure of Pann Haggerty.
Laugh at Pann’s antics, thrill to the romance, indulge in copious mugs of tea and try out the delicious recipes! Above all…enjoy.
EXCERPT TWO
Pandora Haggerty, sorry…Harper sat in the back of the ambulance in a wheelchair all forlorn and feeling decidedly sorry for herself. Her plastered right leg was elevated, and despite Joe’s hand resting on hers comforting her, Pann’s spirits were low. She was jostled several times, wincing as the vehicle rode over several mountains in the road. Perhaps the pain medication was wearing off. Avoiding looking out the window, Pann kept her gaze on Joe’s steadfast one and the gleaming rings of gold that adorned her left hand. Beside her on the floor lay several packages, and from what she could make out, there was a Zimmer frame ready to be constructed.
“A zimmer frame, my arse,” Pann grumbled.
“What was that, darlin’?”
“Just talking out loud,” she murmured.
“Are you in any pain, honey?”
Pann shook her head. “Actually I’m starting to feel like a total prat,” she told him bluntly. “I cannot believe I managed to break my sodding ankle, and now I’m totally reliant on someone else to help me do everything. And I am not using a sodding Zimmer frame. What do they think I am, an elderly geriatric?” Then, turning her head…she noticed a chair behind her.
“That’s not a commode is it?” She asked incredulously in a high squeak. Joe nodded.
“You have to be taking the royal piss,” she exclaimed.
“No, that’s what the commode is for. So that you can—” Joe’s voice broke off.
“No chuffing way am I using a commode.”
“The doctor said you had to stay off that leg. This way you can use the toilet by simply lifting yourself from one chair to another,” he said soothingly.
Pann’s temper finally got the better of her. Humiliation, frustration and that nagging ache from her leg took over her usually sane-ish temperament. She squeezed Joe’s hand digging her nails in, almost breaking the skin. At this point, she really didn’t care if she hurt him or not. She was hurting. Why couldn’t he sympathize? It really wasn’t fair.
Pann sat complacently as Joe wheeled her into the now widened doorway of their motorhome. A strange smell assailed her nostrils. What on earth…could she smell?
“There’s a cat in here,” Pann announced, her eyes darting around the kitchen area. It had been widened for accessibility. As Joe closed the door, she caught a glimpse of a tray.
“What makes you think that?” Joe murmured, putting the brake on. He busied himself by putting the kettle on and preparing a drink for them.
“The litter tray behind me, and the two bowls on a mat just over there,” Pann pointed out. “You do know I still have a cat back in England, even if it is living with Mum now.” She sniffed again, wafting her hand in front of her nose. Several pots of fragrant violets lined the middle of the dining table. She hoped Joe had secured them with Velcro strips.
“Interesting and beautiful flowers, but no matter how many pots of violets you use, there is no cure for the niff of a farting feline,” she told him with a grin, using as many English terms as she could fit in. It was ridiculous, but in a way Joe had diffused her temper by diverting her attention onto something else. “So where is it?”
Joe put two steaming mugs on the table, fetched a plate of digestive biscuits and sat down next to her on the seat.
“Look up,” he suggested.
Pann’s head tilted back. On what had been her bed, two white fluffy paws and a nose with two black splotches were all she could see. All those awful feel sorry for herself feelings disappeared. Joe handed her the tea mug.
“So how did we end up with whats-his-face up there?”
“I have no idea. I picked up the van yesterday after the refit, and well, there he was,” Joe explained.
“He?”
Joe nodded. “I took him to the vet with every intention of handing him to a rescue center, but, I don’t know. There was something about him. It turns out he is a pedigree Ragdoll.”
Pann melted. “The ones that go limp in your arms. They are so soft and fluffy…Oh, Joe. Look at the splotches on his cute little nosey. Bloody hell. Is that the cat?” Her nose wrinkled. “Oh God, that’s foul,” she breathed.
“There is nothing wrong with that cat’s stomach. Apparently, some cats are prone to gas and this is one of them I’m afraid.” Joe chuckled. “So are we gonna keep him? I had him vaccinated, micro chipped and everything.”
“What have you called him?”
“I thought I’d let you name him,” Joe replied with a smile. “It’s taken you out of your bad mood hasn’t it?”
“Yes, you rat, it has.” Pann couldn’t take her eyes off the two fluffy paws and now emerging face over the edge of what had been her bed. “I’m still not using that commode, you know.”
BUY LINKS:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VDODDHE/
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00VDODDHE/
About the Author
Amanda Ward lives in Bedfordshire, England with her husband, three children and two insane cats. The expression ‘What you see is what you get’, sums her up perfectly.
She is the author of the novel Without Saying A Word with Books To Go Now and The MisAdventures of Pann Haggerty with Secret Cravings Publishing. She is a member of the Romance Novelists Association (RNA). There is always some moment waiting around the corner to be written into a novel.
Her interests include a passion for history and the royal families of Europe, romance novels, cooking, and science fiction including Doctor Who. Of course not forgetting the great and wonderful Doris Day musicals and English costume dramas.
A perfect afternoon for Amanda would be a pot of tea, plenty of biscuits with a Doris Day film on the telly. Shared with great friends and her amazingly tolerant mother in law.
Find out more about Amanda and her manic life at www.amandajward.weebly.com
Contact Links:
AMANDA WARDREFRESHINGLY ROMANTIC; QUINTESSENTIALLY QUIRKY!! - WELCOME
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/manda.j.ward
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/Augustmum
Blog:
http://kooks-kooksnook.blogspot.co.uk/
Google+
https://plus.google.com/u/0/+MandaWard71/posts
Email
mrsajward@hotmail.com
About the BookTAGLINE
Getting plastered at a wedding is the sign a good time has been had, but not when it’s the bride!
BLURB
The fun and games continue as Pann Haggerty travels around America with her ‘average’ Joe on their way to Las Vegas. This time, Joe thinks he’s the one in charge, and able to handle his beloved quirky English rose.
Apparently not. Surprises, secrets and wedding bells are in store. Has Pann given Joe the answer to his big question? Read on in the second MisAdventure of Pann Haggerty.
Laugh at Pann’s antics, thrill to the romance, indulge in copious mugs of tea and try out the delicious recipes! Above all…enjoy.
EXCERPT TWO
Pandora Haggerty, sorry…Harper sat in the back of the ambulance in a wheelchair all forlorn and feeling decidedly sorry for herself. Her plastered right leg was elevated, and despite Joe’s hand resting on hers comforting her, Pann’s spirits were low. She was jostled several times, wincing as the vehicle rode over several mountains in the road. Perhaps the pain medication was wearing off. Avoiding looking out the window, Pann kept her gaze on Joe’s steadfast one and the gleaming rings of gold that adorned her left hand. Beside her on the floor lay several packages, and from what she could make out, there was a Zimmer frame ready to be constructed.
“A zimmer frame, my arse,” Pann grumbled.
“What was that, darlin’?”
“Just talking out loud,” she murmured.
“Are you in any pain, honey?”
Pann shook her head. “Actually I’m starting to feel like a total prat,” she told him bluntly. “I cannot believe I managed to break my sodding ankle, and now I’m totally reliant on someone else to help me do everything. And I am not using a sodding Zimmer frame. What do they think I am, an elderly geriatric?” Then, turning her head…she noticed a chair behind her.
“That’s not a commode is it?” She asked incredulously in a high squeak. Joe nodded.
“You have to be taking the royal piss,” she exclaimed.
“No, that’s what the commode is for. So that you can—” Joe’s voice broke off.
“No chuffing way am I using a commode.”
“The doctor said you had to stay off that leg. This way you can use the toilet by simply lifting yourself from one chair to another,” he said soothingly.
Pann’s temper finally got the better of her. Humiliation, frustration and that nagging ache from her leg took over her usually sane-ish temperament. She squeezed Joe’s hand digging her nails in, almost breaking the skin. At this point, she really didn’t care if she hurt him or not. She was hurting. Why couldn’t he sympathize? It really wasn’t fair.
Pann sat complacently as Joe wheeled her into the now widened doorway of their motorhome. A strange smell assailed her nostrils. What on earth…could she smell?
“There’s a cat in here,” Pann announced, her eyes darting around the kitchen area. It had been widened for accessibility. As Joe closed the door, she caught a glimpse of a tray.
“What makes you think that?” Joe murmured, putting the brake on. He busied himself by putting the kettle on and preparing a drink for them.
“The litter tray behind me, and the two bowls on a mat just over there,” Pann pointed out. “You do know I still have a cat back in England, even if it is living with Mum now.” She sniffed again, wafting her hand in front of her nose. Several pots of fragrant violets lined the middle of the dining table. She hoped Joe had secured them with Velcro strips.
“Interesting and beautiful flowers, but no matter how many pots of violets you use, there is no cure for the niff of a farting feline,” she told him with a grin, using as many English terms as she could fit in. It was ridiculous, but in a way Joe had diffused her temper by diverting her attention onto something else. “So where is it?”
Joe put two steaming mugs on the table, fetched a plate of digestive biscuits and sat down next to her on the seat.
“Look up,” he suggested.
Pann’s head tilted back. On what had been her bed, two white fluffy paws and a nose with two black splotches were all she could see. All those awful feel sorry for herself feelings disappeared. Joe handed her the tea mug.
“So how did we end up with whats-his-face up there?”
“I have no idea. I picked up the van yesterday after the refit, and well, there he was,” Joe explained.
“He?”
Joe nodded. “I took him to the vet with every intention of handing him to a rescue center, but, I don’t know. There was something about him. It turns out he is a pedigree Ragdoll.”
Pann melted. “The ones that go limp in your arms. They are so soft and fluffy…Oh, Joe. Look at the splotches on his cute little nosey. Bloody hell. Is that the cat?” Her nose wrinkled. “Oh God, that’s foul,” she breathed.
“There is nothing wrong with that cat’s stomach. Apparently, some cats are prone to gas and this is one of them I’m afraid.” Joe chuckled. “So are we gonna keep him? I had him vaccinated, micro chipped and everything.”
“What have you called him?”
“I thought I’d let you name him,” Joe replied with a smile. “It’s taken you out of your bad mood hasn’t it?”
“Yes, you rat, it has.” Pann couldn’t take her eyes off the two fluffy paws and now emerging face over the edge of what had been her bed. “I’m still not using that commode, you know.”
BUY LINKS:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VDODDHE/
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00VDODDHE/
About the AuthorAmanda Ward lives in Bedfordshire, England with her husband, three children and two insane cats. The expression ‘What you see is what you get’, sums her up perfectly.
She is the author of the novel Without Saying A Word with Books To Go Now and The MisAdventures of Pann Haggerty with Secret Cravings Publishing. She is a member of the Romance Novelists Association (RNA). There is always some moment waiting around the corner to be written into a novel.
Her interests include a passion for history and the royal families of Europe, romance novels, cooking, and science fiction including Doctor Who. Of course not forgetting the great and wonderful Doris Day musicals and English costume dramas.
A perfect afternoon for Amanda would be a pot of tea, plenty of biscuits with a Doris Day film on the telly. Shared with great friends and her amazingly tolerant mother in law.
Find out more about Amanda and her manic life at www.amandajward.weebly.com
Contact Links:
AMANDA WARDREFRESHINGLY ROMANTIC; QUINTESSENTIALLY QUIRKY!! - WELCOME
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/manda.j.ward
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/Augustmum
Blog:
http://kooks-kooksnook.blogspot.co.uk/
Google+
https://plus.google.com/u/0/+MandaWard71/posts
mrsajward@hotmail.com
March 24, 2015
A to Z April 2015 Challenge - Theme Reveal
I'm so busy these days that I completely forgot that March 23rd was Theme Reveal Day for all bloggers who take part in the A to Z Challenge in April 2015... Anyway, here's a drum roll... and here's my theme.
It's all about Love
As I'm a romance novelist, my theme for the project will be love in all its facets, from unrequited to passionate, from platonic to romantic. I'll mostly be sharing short articles, but maybe also a poem and a bit of flash fiction in between.
It's all about LoveAs I'm a romance novelist, my theme for the project will be love in all its facets, from unrequited to passionate, from platonic to romantic. I'll mostly be sharing short articles, but maybe also a poem and a bit of flash fiction in between.
March 23, 2015
Featured - Character Interview with Grant Hill - Marie Lavender
Exactly a week ago, I had Fara Bellamont, the heroine from Marie Lavender's historical romance novel "Upon Your Return", over for a character interview.Today, I'm swooning over the hero Captain Grant Hill while asking him my questions!
Character InterviewDevika: Welcome, Grant. I’m so excited to have you over. Please have a seat.
Captain Grant Hill: Oh, it is sincerely my pleasure, Madame. (Lifts her hand to bow over it.)
Devika: Grant, I’m curious to find out more about you. What do you do for a living?
Grant: I am a trading captain. I run the fine clipper ship, La Voyageur, and in doing that, I meet the demands of my clients who require certain items from different ports.
Devika: Interesting. What about your family background?
Grant: Ah…I usually hesitate to divulge my meager beginnings, but for you, as you have been so kind, I will make an exception. My father was a Lieutenant in the British army, and he met my mother, who was French, while on a tour of duty. I lived in London for a time with my parents until they both died of disease. After that, I had no one except for perhaps Captain Smith of The Challenger, who taught me all I know now. And there is also Eric, whom I would count as family, but the way in which we met is not my story to tell.
Devika: I see. So how did you meet Fara?
Grant: I stumbled across Fara in the harbor of La Rochelle one night when I was returning to my ship from a meeting with a supplier. It seemed she was in a bit of trouble, and I couldn’t very well walk away from a lady in peril. And a fine lady she was…(Smiles secretly.)
Devika: Wow. That sure makes for an interesting story. How did you know he’s/she’s the one?
Grant: (Rubs a hand briefly over his face.) I suppose you know when she is the first thing you think about in the morning, and before you go to sleep. You know when she is a constant distraction in your mind, not just her lovely face or body, but her redeeming qualities – her many kindnesses, her smile, the way she challenges you in small ways.
Devika: Let’s talk about your dreams and goals in life.
Grant: I suppose I achieved what I wanted. I wanted to be a sailor and through working on many ships, I became one. Watching Captain Smith made me seek more for myself, and I found La Voyageur and made it my own, and I hired the best damned crew I know…er, pardon the language, Madame. As for dreams, my secret dream is to see my mother again. I wish that was possible. She was the kindest woman I ever knew, until Fara.
Devika: Would you say there was a decisive moment in your life that made you who you are today?
Grant: I regret to say that being forced into the streets at such a young age gave me a thicker skin than I ever imagined. I worked up from the dregs of society to get to where I am today. I was determined that I would survive, and I have.
Devika: Okay. And what is your greatest fear?
Grant: My greatest fear is causing harm to Fara because of all the secrets I keep. And second? Having to walk away to protect her, and possibly never seeing her again.
Devika: Sorry, I didn’t mean to dampen the mood. Why don’t we finish off on a happy note? Tell me, if you could have anything in the world, what would you wish for?
Grant: All in all, I suppose I would want peace, to throw off the dark burdens that hound me every waking moment. I would like to live a nice life, a contented one.
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 & AuthorUpon Your Return blurb
Fara Bellamont has been back in society for a year after leaving Cluny Abbey, where her uncle sent her long ago. When he chooses a suitor for her for marriage, she fears that she will be forced to marry a stranger and live a miserable life. But, Fara finds herself thrust into an adventure of a lifetime when unforeseen circumstances cause her to place her trust in a strange man for protection. His intervention not only saves her, but puts her in an even more compromising position. Grant Hill, a trading captain, is enchanted by the young heiress not only because of her beauty, but because she is hardly conventional. Underneath her ladylike exterior lies a tigress. Grant cannot help but offer his protection as she is in need and he is far from immune from her charms. Fara just never bargained on the passion that she feels for Grant Hill. As events unfold, she must decide whether her desires and the dictates of her heart should trump the rules of society…
Book Trailer
http://youtu.be/tpwAq8YFdv8
Purchase Links
Universal Amazon Link: http://bookgoodies.com/a/B00I0D9LQ8
Publisher: http://solsticepublishing.com/upon-your-return/
CreateSpace: https://www.createspace.com/4284739
Author Bio
Bestselling author of UPON YOUR RETURN and 19 other books. 2014 BTS Red Carpet Review Nominee. Finalist and Runner-up in the 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 50 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 over twenty years. She has more works in progress than she can count on two hands. Marie has published twenty books in the genres of historical romance, contemporary romance, romantic suspense, paranormal romance/fantasy, mystery/thriller, literary fiction and poetry. Lavender just released Second Nature, a paranormal romance/urban fantasy, in December of 2014. She released Magick & Moonlight, a romantic fantasy, back in March. Upon Your Honor, released in late April, is her second historical romance. Her current series are The Heiresses in Love Series, The Magick Series and The Blood at First Sight Series. Feel free to visit her website at http://marielavender.com/ for further information about her books and her life. Marie is also on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and LinkedIn.
A list of her books and pen names are as follows:
Marie Lavender: Upon Your Return; Magick & Moonlight; Upon Your Honor; Second Nature
Erica Sutherhome: Hard to Get; Memories; A Hint of Scandal; Without You; Strange Heat; Terror in the Night; Haunted; Pursuit; Perfect Game; A Touch of Dawn; Ransom; Leather and Lace
Kathryn Layne: A Misplaced Life
Heather Crouse: Express Café and Other Ramblings; Ramblings, Musings and Other Things; Soulful Ramblings and Other Worldly Things
Author Links
http://marielavender.com/
http://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/
http://marielavenderbooks.blogspot.com/
http://marielavender.blogspot.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
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6938764.Marie_Lavender
http://authorsdb.com/authors-directory/1578-marie-lavender
http://www.pw.org/content/marie_lavender
http://www.amazon.com/Marie-Lavender/e/B00C10Q94I/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJu8HjRVYCFOqcIoX6ZxdqQ/videos
March 21, 2015
Blog Tour - The Edge of Hope by Alina Popescu
I love vampires, so today is double special: I can feature a great friend, and I can spread some vampire love. Do check out the excerpt after the spotlight!
Spotlight
I finally spotted Anthony in one of the groups in the back. He was sitting with a group, mostly women, most half-naked, extremely beautiful. They all turned to look at me. Anthony kept staring at me, a cold smile on his lips. It took him a while to change it to the warm one he had gotten me used to. I knew I should walk up to him, but my legs weren’t moving. I saw him taking one more sip from his glass before finally getting up so I took the time to look around.
At another table, there were three girls fighting for attention from a guy. I could understand why because he was striking, but it all seemed a bit pathetic. I noticed he was also looking at me, shaking his head and smiling. He seemed to know who I was. He probably did, as he had a brief silent exchange with Anthony as he made his way towards me.
“Gorgeous as ever,” Anthony said when he walked up to me. He wore a white button-down shirt and dark jeans, so no superspy. Well, reality is reality, but he was still gorgeous.
“Thank you. Interesting….bar.”
“It’s a private club, actually. Bar, lounge, restaurant, concert venue, and even dancing club when needed.”
“Seems remote enough for a private hangout,” I said, nodding.
“Come,” he said, taking my hand. He stopped for a moment to wave to one of the bartenders, then directed me to a table in one corner of the large room. The couch was extremely comfortable, but I felt very uneasy. Both the guy that the girls were fighting over and all the people at Anthony’s table were staring at me.
“Relax,” Anthony said, noticing my discomfort. “They are friends and extremely curious. I told them tonight you’re all mine so they have to wait to meet you.”
“I see.” I really didn’t understand, but I couldn’t find anything else to say. It was not curiosity I was sensing from them. Plus, he could have spared five minutes to introduce me to them. If he wanted me all to himself, maybe he should not have chosen the place where all his friends liked to hang out.
The bartender came and brought us a bottle of chilled champagne, the music changed, and people eventually stopped inspecting me. After a few sips of the dry and cool drink, I started to relax. Anthony was acting as if he couldn’t keep his hands off of me and after a few drinks, I had forgotten everything about the awkwardness of being treated like a circus monkey by his “friends”, and the numbingly cruel smile I had seen on Anthony.
Spotlight
Title: The Edge of Hope
Series: Bad Blood, Book 1
Genre: paranormal, supernatural, urban fantasy, romance, vampires
Length: novel
Everyone she loved betrayed her. She felt lost and broken. Getting away from the pain and embracing a new path, Alexa decided to leave her old life behind and chase a long forgotten dream in Malta. There she met a gorgeous man, bearing the scent of fresh love. He led her to a new city to explore, Amsterdam. Is the tall, dark, and delicious man a dream come true or just a risky gamble?
Alexa chose hope and new beginnings over fear and warning signs only to be brutally dragged into a world she never really thought existed. Vampires, their feuds, and her future held tightly in their hands.
Trapped in a mysterious world, Alexa gives love chance after chance. Following her quest of self-discovery in a blood bound world, will she survive the journey?
Find out more: http://alina-popescu.com/badblood
Book trailer Buy linksEbook
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JEBJXDQ
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00JEBJXDQ
Amazon AU: http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B00JEBJXDQ
***Free with Kindle Unlimited
***Celebrate a year of The Edge of Hope with the Amazon Countdown Deal – March 29 – April 5. Discounted price starts at 99c.
Paperback
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/The-Edge-Hope-Blood-Volume/dp/1497436303/
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Edge-Hope-Blood-Volume/dp/1497436303/
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-edge-of-hope-alina-popescu/1119064391
CreateSpace: https://www.createspace.com/4729236
The Breaking of Bonds, book 2 of the Bad Blood Trilogy will be released on May 28th, 2015
A human sacrifice has forced vampires, trueborn and baseborn alike, into an escalating conflict with one side pushing for revenge, the other for freedom. The hunt for Anthony and Louis is the trueborns’ main objective, driven by Hesrah’s desire to get even with the two baseborns and avenge her best friend, Alexa. The baseborns are rattled and divided between rallying around the rebels and obeying the rules imposed by Ankhsis.
What emerges from the portal from Earth to Ankhsis in the middle of the turmoil rocking both worlds is more dead than alive. Not human and not baseborn. Certainly not trueborn. This new being will either damn them all or be their race’s most powerful weapon. Will they trust it not to destroy them, or will Ankhsis decide putting it down is the only solution?
In the end, who is guilty? Who will pay? Will anyone survive its wrath?
Prizes: 1 signed copy of The Edge of Hope and 3 Ebooks
Prizes: 1 signed copy of The Edge of Hope and 3 Ebooks
About the author
Writer, traveler, and coffee addict, Alina Popescu has been in love with books all her life. She started writing when she was ten and even won awards in local competitions. She has always been drawn to sci-fi, fantasy, and the supernatural realm, which explains her deep love for vampires and is also to blame for this trilogy.
Social Links
Site & Blog: http://alina-popescu.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoralinapopescu
Twitter: http://twitter.com/alina_popescu
Instagram: http://instagram.com/alinapopescuwriter
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/alina-popescu
Google+: https://www.google.com/+AlinaPopescu
Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/alinapopescu
I finally spotted Anthony in one of the groups in the back. He was sitting with a group, mostly women, most half-naked, extremely beautiful. They all turned to look at me. Anthony kept staring at me, a cold smile on his lips. It took him a while to change it to the warm one he had gotten me used to. I knew I should walk up to him, but my legs weren’t moving. I saw him taking one more sip from his glass before finally getting up so I took the time to look around.
At another table, there were three girls fighting for attention from a guy. I could understand why because he was striking, but it all seemed a bit pathetic. I noticed he was also looking at me, shaking his head and smiling. He seemed to know who I was. He probably did, as he had a brief silent exchange with Anthony as he made his way towards me.
“Gorgeous as ever,” Anthony said when he walked up to me. He wore a white button-down shirt and dark jeans, so no superspy. Well, reality is reality, but he was still gorgeous.
“Thank you. Interesting….bar.”
“It’s a private club, actually. Bar, lounge, restaurant, concert venue, and even dancing club when needed.”
“Seems remote enough for a private hangout,” I said, nodding.
“Come,” he said, taking my hand. He stopped for a moment to wave to one of the bartenders, then directed me to a table in one corner of the large room. The couch was extremely comfortable, but I felt very uneasy. Both the guy that the girls were fighting over and all the people at Anthony’s table were staring at me.
“Relax,” Anthony said, noticing my discomfort. “They are friends and extremely curious. I told them tonight you’re all mine so they have to wait to meet you.”
“I see.” I really didn’t understand, but I couldn’t find anything else to say. It was not curiosity I was sensing from them. Plus, he could have spared five minutes to introduce me to them. If he wanted me all to himself, maybe he should not have chosen the place where all his friends liked to hang out.
The bartender came and brought us a bottle of chilled champagne, the music changed, and people eventually stopped inspecting me. After a few sips of the dry and cool drink, I started to relax. Anthony was acting as if he couldn’t keep his hands off of me and after a few drinks, I had forgotten everything about the awkwardness of being treated like a circus monkey by his “friends”, and the numbingly cruel smile I had seen on Anthony.
March 20, 2015
Saris in Sri Lanka
The saree / sari is one of the traditional garments in Sri Lanka. Here are 5 insights I want to share today:
1) Typically, girls are only allowed to wear saris once they have turned into a woman (i. e. had their first menstruation).
2) A sari consists of six yards of material. Often when you buy it, there's a "blouse piece" coming with it. It matches the colours and pattern of the sari and will be turned into the blouse (usually short-sleeved or even sleeveless).
4) In the past, it was fashionable to wear colourful saris and choose a long-sleeved or elbow-length blouse in a neutral colour like white, cream or black.
5) There are two main ways to wear a sari in Sri Lanka:
Firstly, there's the up-country style or Kandyan style where there are no visible pleats and the decorated border is displayed prominently. It's a preferred choice for formal occasions, especially for weddings. Women living in Kandy and the central regions of the island usually wear this style, but others choose it too.
Secondly, there's the Indian style / low-country style that's influenced by the Indian roots of the Sri Lankans. It involves folding the sari into many pleats that are gathered at the front and tucked into the waistband of the underskirt and / or belt. There's a folded, long piece of decorated border falling back over one shoulder.
Below, I'm sharing some personal pictures of me wearing the sari, as per request of Ananya Kiran from the Facebook group Indian Fashionistas. The first two pictures show me on my wedding and homecoming day, wearing the Kandyan style. The third shows me dressed up the Indian way.
On my wedding day 
On my home-coming day 
With my loving husband
1) Typically, girls are only allowed to wear saris once they have turned into a woman (i. e. had their first menstruation).
2) A sari consists of six yards of material. Often when you buy it, there's a "blouse piece" coming with it. It matches the colours and pattern of the sari and will be turned into the blouse (usually short-sleeved or even sleeveless).
4) In the past, it was fashionable to wear colourful saris and choose a long-sleeved or elbow-length blouse in a neutral colour like white, cream or black.
5) There are two main ways to wear a sari in Sri Lanka:
Firstly, there's the up-country style or Kandyan style where there are no visible pleats and the decorated border is displayed prominently. It's a preferred choice for formal occasions, especially for weddings. Women living in Kandy and the central regions of the island usually wear this style, but others choose it too.
Secondly, there's the Indian style / low-country style that's influenced by the Indian roots of the Sri Lankans. It involves folding the sari into many pleats that are gathered at the front and tucked into the waistband of the underskirt and / or belt. There's a folded, long piece of decorated border falling back over one shoulder.
Below, I'm sharing some personal pictures of me wearing the sari, as per request of Ananya Kiran from the Facebook group Indian Fashionistas. The first two pictures show me on my wedding and homecoming day, wearing the Kandyan style. The third shows me dressed up the Indian way.
On my wedding day On my home-coming day With my loving husband
March 19, 2015
Stronger - My Contribution to #1000Speak March
On February 20th I was part of the global initiative '1000 Voices Speak For Compassion". You can read the short story I posted here.
Today, on March 20th, we bloggers are at it again. This time, the theme is "Building from Bullying". I'm sharing my poem "Stronger" for #1000Speak.
Stronger
I’m sure you don’t remember who I am
But I haven’t forgotten a single thing
You may now know me as a fighter
But I used to be a victim of bullying
For every time you broke my glasses
I fill my desk with flower vases
For every day you made me cry
I help a stranger to get by
For all the pain you made me feel
I make another dream become real
I was the kid that hid in corners
Because you pushed and shoved me around
I was the quiet shadow in the back
Because your cruelty silenced my every sound
I was always the lonely odd one out
Because you filled me with doubt
But now I’m stronger
I don’t cower any longer
But now I’m wiser
Can be calm without a tranquilizer
But now I’m unashamedly me
Proud of myself for all to see
For every time you broke my mug
I comfort someone with a hug
For every day you pulled my hair
I teach someone how to be fair
For all the times you cut me off
I show someone the path to love
I’m sure you don’t remember me
Because I was just dirt crushed under your boots
But let me tell you I’m now free
And work as a teacher to eliminate bullying by its roots
Say NO to bullying!
Today, on March 20th, we bloggers are at it again. This time, the theme is "Building from Bullying". I'm sharing my poem "Stronger" for #1000Speak.
StrongerI’m sure you don’t remember who I am
But I haven’t forgotten a single thing
You may now know me as a fighter
But I used to be a victim of bullying
For every time you broke my glasses
I fill my desk with flower vases
For every day you made me cry
I help a stranger to get by
For all the pain you made me feel
I make another dream become real
I was the kid that hid in corners
Because you pushed and shoved me around
I was the quiet shadow in the back
Because your cruelty silenced my every sound
I was always the lonely odd one out
Because you filled me with doubt
But now I’m stronger
I don’t cower any longer
But now I’m wiser
Can be calm without a tranquilizer
But now I’m unashamedly me
Proud of myself for all to see
For every time you broke my mug
I comfort someone with a hug
For every day you pulled my hair
I teach someone how to be fair
For all the times you cut me off
I show someone the path to love
I’m sure you don’t remember me
Because I was just dirt crushed under your boots
But let me tell you I’m now free
And work as a teacher to eliminate bullying by its roots
Say NO to bullying!
March 16, 2015
Featured - Character Interview with Fara Bellamont - Marie Lavender
I'm so excited to have two gorgeous ladies visiting my blog today! Ladies and gents, please welcome Fara Bellamont, the heroine from "Upon Your Return", and the awesome author who's behind her, Marie Lavender. We have a fun Q&A session ahead of us.
Character Interview
Devika: Welcome, Fara. I’m so excited to have you over. Please have a seat.
Fara Bellamont: Oh, it is my absolute pleasure! Thank you kindly for having me (makes a big production of curtsying and then finds a comfortable seat in her Victorian dress).
Devika: Fara, I’m curious to find out more about you. What do you do for a living?
Fara: Why, I am a lady (she says with a hand to her chest). Though I must admit, now that I am older and a bit wiser, I have entertained being a seamstress a time or two. But, I digress. I am who I am, an heiress. I am not useless, however. When I am not entertaining my uncle’s guests or running the household, I read literature, play the pianoforte or work on my embroidery. Don’t say anything, but I often leave the house without an escort as well. I doubt my uncle is any the wiser.
Devika: Interesting. What about your family background?
Fara: Oh (hesitates). I came to La Rochelle at a young age to live with my uncle after my parents suddenly perished at sea. I have no one else.
Devika: I see. So how did you meet (hero/heroine)?
Fara: (Blushes.) Oh, it was all my fault, I assure you. I insisted upon meeting my fiancé alone at the docks, and after dispatching a couple of ruffians who dared to accost me, Captain Grant Hill was so magnanimous in offering me a place to stay for the night. Of course, I hadn’t a choice at the time as I was fairly unconscious.
Devika: Wow. That sure makes for an interesting story. How did you know he’s/she’s the one?
Fara: How does any woman know? Your palms sweat, your heart beats wildly in your chest, and you nearly forget to breathe. And when he kisses you? Mon Dieu, it is like nothing you would have ever imagined. I suppose that I fully knew when he became less the handsome rogue and more a human being with strengths and flaws. Of course, he will always be a dashing rogue, won’t he?
Devika: Let’s talk about your dreams and goals in life.
Fara: Oh, I have always wanted to go on great adventures someday, and I hoped for a man to fill my life, one I could love, who could love me in return. My parents are to blame for that dream. With regards to goals, I suppose that my most basic goal is to be happy. Life has been rather unpredictable lately, however.
Devika: Would you say there was a decisive moment in your life that made you who you are today?
Fara: My parents taught me that love was everything – love for family, romantic love, love in general is more important than social expectations. And seeing the love between them every day cemented that notion. I supposed that, in a sense, made me quick to want the same for myself, however hard that is to accomplish for a lady.
Devika: Okay. And what is your greatest fear?
Fara: My greatest fears were realized when my parents were killed by pirates when I was eight and a half. If you had asked me after I’d left the convent, I would have plainly said that I feared marrying a complete stranger and living with such a man for the rest of my life. Now? I hope upon hope that Grant never discovers my secrets. It will ruin everything.
Devika: Sorry, I didn’t mean to dampen the mood. Why don’t we finish off on a happy note? Tell me, if you could have anything in the world, what would you wish for?
Fara: I only wish for peace and love. How could anyone wish for more than that?
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*
If you enjoyed this interview, don't forget to stop by again in a week from now, we'll be having the dashing hero Grant over!
About the Book & Author
Upon Your Return blurb
Fara Bellamont has been back in society for a year after leaving Cluny Abbey, where her uncle sent her long ago. When he chooses a suitor for her for marriage, she fears that she will be forced to marry a stranger and live a miserable life. But, Fara finds herself thrust into an adventure of a lifetime when unforeseen circumstances cause her to place her trust in a strange man for protection. His intervention not only saves her, but puts her in an even more compromising position. Grant Hill, a trading captain, is enchanted by the young heiress not only because of her beauty, but because she is hardly conventional. Underneath her ladylike exterior lies a tigress. Grant cannot help but offer his protection as she is in need and he is far from immune from her charms. Fara just never bargained on the passion that she feels for Grant Hill. As events unfold, she must decide whether her desires and the dictates of her heart should trump the rules of society…
Book Trailer
http://youtu.be/tpwAq8YFdv8
Purchase Links
Universal Amazon Link: http://bookgoodies.com/a/B00I0D9LQ8
Publisher: http://solsticepublishing.com/upon-your-return/
CreateSpace: https://www.createspace.com/4284739
Author Bio
Bestselling author of UPON YOUR RETURN and 19 other books. 2014 BTS Red Carpet Review Nominee. Finalist and Runner-up in the 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 50 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 over twenty years. She has more works in progress than she can count on two hands. Marie has published twenty books in the genres of historical romance, contemporary romance, romantic suspense, paranormal romance/fantasy, mystery/thriller, literary fiction and poetry. Lavender just released Second Nature, a paranormal romance/urban fantasy, in December of 2014. She released Magick & Moonlight, a romantic fantasy, back in March. Upon Your Honor, released in late April, is her second historical romance. Her current series are The Heiresses in Love Series, The Magick Series and The Blood at First Sight Series. Feel free to visit her website at http://marielavender.com/ for further information about her books and her life. Marie is also on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and LinkedIn.
A list of her books and pen names are as follows:
Marie Lavender: Upon Your Return; Magick & Moonlight; Upon Your Honor; Second Nature
Erica Sutherhome: Hard to Get; Memories; A Hint of Scandal; Without You; Strange Heat; Terror in the Night; Haunted; Pursuit; Perfect Game; A Touch of Dawn; Ransom; Leather and Lace
Kathryn Layne: A Misplaced Life
Heather Crouse: Express Café and Other Ramblings; Ramblings, Musings and Other Things; Soulful Ramblings and Other Worldly Things
Author Links
http://marielavender.com/
http://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/
http://marielavenderbooks.blogspot.com/
http://marielavender.blogspot.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
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6938764.Marie_Lavender
http://authorsdb.com/authors-directory/1578-marie-lavender
http://www.pw.org/content/marie_lavender
http://www.amazon.com/Marie-Lavender/e/B00C10Q94I/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJu8HjRVYCFOqcIoX6ZxdqQ/videos
Character InterviewDevika: Welcome, Fara. I’m so excited to have you over. Please have a seat.
Fara Bellamont: Oh, it is my absolute pleasure! Thank you kindly for having me (makes a big production of curtsying and then finds a comfortable seat in her Victorian dress).
Devika: Fara, I’m curious to find out more about you. What do you do for a living?
Fara: Why, I am a lady (she says with a hand to her chest). Though I must admit, now that I am older and a bit wiser, I have entertained being a seamstress a time or two. But, I digress. I am who I am, an heiress. I am not useless, however. When I am not entertaining my uncle’s guests or running the household, I read literature, play the pianoforte or work on my embroidery. Don’t say anything, but I often leave the house without an escort as well. I doubt my uncle is any the wiser.
Devika: Interesting. What about your family background?
Fara: Oh (hesitates). I came to La Rochelle at a young age to live with my uncle after my parents suddenly perished at sea. I have no one else.
Devika: I see. So how did you meet (hero/heroine)?
Fara: (Blushes.) Oh, it was all my fault, I assure you. I insisted upon meeting my fiancé alone at the docks, and after dispatching a couple of ruffians who dared to accost me, Captain Grant Hill was so magnanimous in offering me a place to stay for the night. Of course, I hadn’t a choice at the time as I was fairly unconscious.
Devika: Wow. That sure makes for an interesting story. How did you know he’s/she’s the one?
Fara: How does any woman know? Your palms sweat, your heart beats wildly in your chest, and you nearly forget to breathe. And when he kisses you? Mon Dieu, it is like nothing you would have ever imagined. I suppose that I fully knew when he became less the handsome rogue and more a human being with strengths and flaws. Of course, he will always be a dashing rogue, won’t he?
Devika: Let’s talk about your dreams and goals in life.
Fara: Oh, I have always wanted to go on great adventures someday, and I hoped for a man to fill my life, one I could love, who could love me in return. My parents are to blame for that dream. With regards to goals, I suppose that my most basic goal is to be happy. Life has been rather unpredictable lately, however.
Devika: Would you say there was a decisive moment in your life that made you who you are today?
Fara: My parents taught me that love was everything – love for family, romantic love, love in general is more important than social expectations. And seeing the love between them every day cemented that notion. I supposed that, in a sense, made me quick to want the same for myself, however hard that is to accomplish for a lady.
Devika: Okay. And what is your greatest fear?
Fara: My greatest fears were realized when my parents were killed by pirates when I was eight and a half. If you had asked me after I’d left the convent, I would have plainly said that I feared marrying a complete stranger and living with such a man for the rest of my life. Now? I hope upon hope that Grant never discovers my secrets. It will ruin everything.
Devika: Sorry, I didn’t mean to dampen the mood. Why don’t we finish off on a happy note? Tell me, if you could have anything in the world, what would you wish for?
Fara: I only wish for peace and love. How could anyone wish for more than that?
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*
If you enjoyed this interview, don't forget to stop by again in a week from now, we'll be having the dashing hero Grant over!
About the Book & AuthorUpon Your Return blurb
Fara Bellamont has been back in society for a year after leaving Cluny Abbey, where her uncle sent her long ago. When he chooses a suitor for her for marriage, she fears that she will be forced to marry a stranger and live a miserable life. But, Fara finds herself thrust into an adventure of a lifetime when unforeseen circumstances cause her to place her trust in a strange man for protection. His intervention not only saves her, but puts her in an even more compromising position. Grant Hill, a trading captain, is enchanted by the young heiress not only because of her beauty, but because she is hardly conventional. Underneath her ladylike exterior lies a tigress. Grant cannot help but offer his protection as she is in need and he is far from immune from her charms. Fara just never bargained on the passion that she feels for Grant Hill. As events unfold, she must decide whether her desires and the dictates of her heart should trump the rules of society…
Book Trailer
http://youtu.be/tpwAq8YFdv8
Purchase Links
Universal Amazon Link: http://bookgoodies.com/a/B00I0D9LQ8
Publisher: http://solsticepublishing.com/upon-your-return/
CreateSpace: https://www.createspace.com/4284739
Author Bio
Bestselling author of UPON YOUR RETURN and 19 other books. 2014 BTS Red Carpet Review Nominee. Finalist and Runner-up in the 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 50 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 over twenty years. She has more works in progress than she can count on two hands. Marie has published twenty books in the genres of historical romance, contemporary romance, romantic suspense, paranormal romance/fantasy, mystery/thriller, literary fiction and poetry. Lavender just released Second Nature, a paranormal romance/urban fantasy, in December of 2014. She released Magick & Moonlight, a romantic fantasy, back in March. Upon Your Honor, released in late April, is her second historical romance. Her current series are The Heiresses in Love Series, The Magick Series and The Blood at First Sight Series. Feel free to visit her website at http://marielavender.com/ for further information about her books and her life. Marie is also on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and LinkedIn.
A list of her books and pen names are as follows:
Marie Lavender: Upon Your Return; Magick & Moonlight; Upon Your Honor; Second Nature
Erica Sutherhome: Hard to Get; Memories; A Hint of Scandal; Without You; Strange Heat; Terror in the Night; Haunted; Pursuit; Perfect Game; A Touch of Dawn; Ransom; Leather and Lace
Kathryn Layne: A Misplaced Life
Heather Crouse: Express Café and Other Ramblings; Ramblings, Musings and Other Things; Soulful Ramblings and Other Worldly Things
Author Links
http://marielavender.com/
http://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/
http://marielavenderbooks.blogspot.com/
http://marielavender.blogspot.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
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6938764.Marie_Lavender
http://authorsdb.com/authors-directory/1578-marie-lavender
http://www.pw.org/content/marie_lavender
http://www.amazon.com/Marie-Lavender/e/B00C10Q94I/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJu8HjRVYCFOqcIoX6ZxdqQ/videos
March 15, 2015
Featured - When You Make It Home (Sale Blitz)
When You Make It Home by Claire Ashby Genre: Contemporary Romance Release Date: July 12, 2014
Meg Michaels, a bookstore owner, has already walked away from two cheating exes. She’s learned her lesson and has her mind set on success—until she gets knocked up. Embarrassed and unwilling to discuss her situation with friends and family, she wears layers to hide the pregnancy.
When Meg gets sick at a party, she’s mortified. Even worse, Theo Taylor, the guest of honor, discovers her secret. Theo, an Army medic wounded in the war, agrees not to reveal her condition, and the two forge a bond of friendship that blossoms into love.
Theo is soon filling all of Meg’s late-night cravings—and not just the pregnancy-induced ones. But can their love overcome all the obstacles that stand between them and creating a happy family?
Claire Ashby was born and raised in the heart of Atlanta. At a young age, she began keeping journals and over time embellished the details of her quiet days. Eventually, she let go of writing reality altogether and delved completely into the world of fiction.When she's not reading or writing, she spends her time watching extreme survival shows and taking long walks after nightfall. She has an unnatural love of high places, but still regrets the time she skydived solo. She believes some things are better left to the imagination. She resides in Austin with her family and a pack of wild dogs.
