Toni Decker's Blog: Toni Decker Books, page 4
June 29, 2015
Accidental Scene from Shoalman Immortal
Sometimes an author falls in love with a scene that just doesn’t make the final manuscript cut. Or maybe an author writes a scene to get in the voice of a certain character but it doesn’t necessarily belong in the book. And sometimes, just sometimes, the author decides they have to share that scene anyway. **This** is one of those scenes.
I wish we could tell you how this scene played out, but honestly *this* is a PG-13 blog and we can’t take any chances with a scene that just *might* end in an R-rated way. *fans self* Hope you enjoy!
And for more Robert and Kyrissa, check out Shoalman Immortal on Amazon.
“You would not dare, Miss Spears.” Robert held his hand out in front of him.
“Not only would I dare, Mr. Shoalman.” Kyrissa inched closer. Her arm extended without her control, slapping the wet brush across his arm. “I would do.” Not sure whether to laugh or run, she reloaded her paintbrush with paint.
“Well.” Robert paused. He grabbed a gray cloth from the table and wiped the meadow green wetness from his forearm. “It seems I have underestimated your ability to fight dirty to prove your point.” Kyrissa stilled, waiting for Robert to make a move. “But I believe,” Robert flattened both his hands into two puddles of wet paints, one blue, the other a mixture of yellow and brown, “You have underestimated my need to win an argument at all costs.”
“You wouldn’t.” Kyrissa scampered to the other side of the worktable, backing away until she impacted against the brick of the studio wall.
Trapped in the corner of the studio, Robert darted towards her, both hands raised and poised to strike his target—her. “Oh, but I would.” Robert smirked. “And I will enjoy every moment.”
Kyrissa bit her lip as Robert slowly stepped towards her. Body poised, her gaze locked on chocolate brown eyes full of mischief that glistened like the wet paint. She lunged and her paintbrush made contact, smearing bright purple across Robert’s cheek. Before she could further her assault down the tight navy t-shirt she wished he wasn’t wearing, his fingers wrapped around the wrist holding the paintbrush. Soft and gentle, but tight enough that made her unable to escape his grasp.
“Oh yes,” he said, lifting his other hand to her face. “I am most definitely going to enjoy this.”
Holding her breath, she let his slick, warm palm spread on her cheek. Linseed oil and Robert’s cinnamon flavor mingled when she finally inhaled again. He swiped along her jaw, down her neck. She only wished she had worn a v-neck t-shirt so she could feel his touch spread over her chest. If only he knew how deeply he had inserted himself into her heart, he’d know exactly how far she’d let him push this moment.
“I can’t say that I’m not enjoying this myself.” She laughed. Her wrists were now a swirl of colors and Robert steadily added more to her neck. “I used to like this sweatshirt.” She smiled.
“If you are looking to save that sweatshirt you have exactly three seconds to remove it,” he warned. “Because this masterpiece is not done yet,” he said, sliding his hand over the puddles of wet paint until new colors covered his hands again.
Kyrissa threw the garment over her head as fast as she could even though she didn’t really care about the sweatshirt at all. Heat rose in her chest as she exposed herself to him. Shaking his head, he sauntered closer, each step making her heart pound louder. He didn’t seem to notice her state of undress, or if he did, he didn’t show it.
“Now I believe the challenge was that I would not allow myself to let go enough of my control to have fun while painting.” Robert slid one hand under her tank top, the fabric sticking to the wet paint in a way that was both comfortable and not at the same time. “I think I have won this argument.”
“Not yet,” Kyrissa teased and grabbed her own handful of paint.
Tagged: #amreading, #MustRead, #NA, #NewAdult, #NewRelease, #Paranormal, #Romance, #Series, #ShoalmanChronicles, #ShoalmanImmortal, #Sneakpeak, #teaser, #ToniDeckerBooks
June 26, 2015
NEW RELEASE-The Unraveling by Laurel Wanrow
Come one and all to be transported back in time…
..to the world of The Unraveling, a New Adult, Steampunk, Fantasy Novel
Toni and I are delighted to help present Laurel Wanrow’s DEBUT novel
The Unraveling: Volume One of The Luminated Threads
RELEASE DATE: June 23, 2015
In 1868 England, the competition to control agriculture is fierce…
…and nobody says no to Derby’s industrial magnate.
Except Annmar Masterson. The nineteen-year-old rejects his improper advances and instead takes an advertising position on a farm. She discovers the isolated valley is home to gifted species—including animal and plant shifters—who hide their lives from the rest of England. The blue threads only she sees on their clockwork machinery prove her heritage is rooted with theirs, but their world is so different that Annmar doesn’t know if she’ll ever belong.
Shapeshifter Daeryn Darkcoat blames himself for the death of his mate and swears he won’t be responsible for another pack. But when the farm he loves falls victim to an endless run of strange pests eating the crops, he joins the hunt, taking charge of an unruly team of predator shifters. In the midst of the battle, Annmar stirs feelings he can’t resist.
As Annmar becomes entangled in the fight against the pests, and with Daeryn, she discovers her magic might help…if she can learn to use it properly. If not, she’ll be forced to leave the people she has come to care for and become what she fears most: nothing more than another cog in the magnate’s gears.
THE UNRAVELING is a full-length novel, approximately 350 pages, for readers 18+ (new adult and older). Please note: This is volume 1 of a three-part serialized novel. Volume 2 will be published in fall of 2015 and Volume 3 winter of 2016 to complete THE LUMINATED THREADS, a steampunk fantasy romance. To be notified of these releases, sign up for Laurel’s Newsletter. (http://eepurl.com/17xRH)
Let’s meet Laurel and our special guests!
TD: Toni and I have the great pleasure of hosting and interviewing a fellow author today. I’m even more excited since we know Laurel already. So we thought we’d treat everyone and introduce you to her debut novel’s hero and heroine.
LAUREL: Thanks for being open to having additional visitors, Toni & Kira. May I present Annmar Masterson and Daeryn Darkcoat?
[Annmar is a pretty brunette with striking blue eyes. Her hair is done up in pins, with a few curls escaping. She dips a little…curtsy, I guess.]
TD: Overalls and a bright yellow flannel shirt? Um, aren’t you hot Annmar? [checks the calendar – Yep It’s almost July and over 85+ degrees]
ANNMAR: I’m fine. Thank you for inquiring. [She perches on the edge of the chair, her back straight. A worn sketchbook appears from her bag and she starts sketching.]
TD: [English accent? Still a little surprised at such prim and proper manners in this day and age, a roughened hand envelopes mine in a warm clasp]
DAERYN: Good to meet you, Miss.
TD: Hi!
[Dark brown bangs fall across his forehead, nearly hiding dreamy chocolate eyes.]
TD: Wow! That is some costume, Daeryn. Do you work at Old Town Williamsburg, because I have to say, the leather suspenders over that rough linen shirt really work! *Actually readers, it’s kinda hot on him—the vee-neck shows off a muscular chest and compliments his golden brown skin.* And that accent! Is that for real? Do you practice that purr, and I haven’t seen manners like that since…
LAUREL: [laughs and pulls me aside] Annmar and Daeryn have come a ways, not only from the Peaks District of central Britain, but also in time. They’re from 1868, the age of steam engines and all those fabulous inventions that inspired Jules Verne.
TD: But they’re not dressed like the typical historical romance cover—
LAUREL: They live on a farm and er, I took some liberties. Their story is a fantasy, and besides, have you ever known a shapeshifter who likes clothes? [She nods to Daeryn and drops her voice] I’m lucky to get him here dressed at all. Go ahead ask them questions.
TD: *No clothes? Wait…shapeshifter? Well, this interview just got interesting!* So, you’re both from 1868. Hmm, this might change some of my questions. I prepared my usual interview questions like ‘What’s you favorite social media?’ but—
DAERYN: We have socials! Every Saturday there’s a bonfire at our farm.
ANNMAR: I believe she means the newspaper reviews of balls. I’m sorry, but Blighted Basin doesn’t have a weekly paper.
TD: No newspapers. Got it. Er, how about, What living person do you most admire?
ANNMAR: I’m rather fond of Queen Victoria. She’s been somewhat a recluse since dear Prince Albert died, but beforehand she set trends in fashion and hairstyles.
DAERYN: Charles Darwin. He has some interesting theories on Natural Selection that our Elders here in Blighted Basin are debating.
TD: [I glance at Laurel.] Perhaps a This or That quiz would fit better?
TD: Coffee or Tea?
ANNMAR & DAERYN: Tea [they answer in unison, and laugh.]
ANNMAR: We are English.
TD: Sweet or Salty?
ANNMAR: Sweet
DAERYN: Salty.
TD: Cats or Dogs?
DAERYN: You mean polecats or wolves? Polecats, of course.
ANNMAR: No, I think she means the companion animals, domestic ones. Cats.
DAERYN: Why would that be of interest compared to real animals?
[His teeth lengthen to sharp points. Fur sprouts across his skin, covering him in sleek, pet-able softness, complete with rounded ears.]
TD: Now THAT is a neat ability and when you put it that way, I agree the real thing is much better, Daeryn. *Readers, he’s even cuter this way*
ANNMAR: Daeryn! Just answer the lady’s questions. Properly.
[Daeryn’s face returns to normal, and he gives me a sheepish grin.]
TD: Night or Day?
DAERYN: This is easier. Night. Polecats are nocturnal.
ANNMAR: Day.
TD: Comedy or Horror Movies?
ANNMAR: Movies? [She looks at Daeryn, and he shrugs.]
TD: I yeah, I forgot, you don’t know what those are yet. How about Comedy or Horror stories?
ANNMAR: Ah, stories. I was quite taken with Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.
DAERYN: I prefer a few laughs with a good adventure. The penny dreadfuls give both.
ANNMAR: [rolls her eyes at this] You’re living a penny dreadful story! Why would you want more adventure?
TD: I guess you don’t mean the new TV series… So moving on, Smile or Game Face?
DAERYN: Smile.
ANNMAR: Game Face.
TD: [Yeah, I can see that. Nothing seems to shake this proper girl.] City or Country?
ANNMAR: City.
DAERYN: [His brows drop to a frown.] Country.
TD: Freckles or Dimples?
ANNMAR: Freckles. They are ever so much easier to draw.
Daeryn: Dimples
TD: Cake or Cookies?
DAERYN: Cake.
ANNMAR: Cake. May I ask, what is a cookie?
TD: [I make a small circle with my hands.] Like a little sweet…cake?
ANNMAR: I’m not sure we—oh! Sweet Biscuits. A biscuit, we call them in England. Those are good, too.
TD: Hugs or Kisses?
DAERYN: Hugs.
ANNMAR: Oh. [She bites her lip, game face definitely gone.] Kisses.
[When Daeryn does a double take, Annmar turns bright red. She opens the sketchbook and tears a page from it before rising. Daeryn stands too, hovering attentively, a hand ready to take her arm, but when she glances at him, he slides his hands into his trouser pockets and stands back, watchful.]
ANNMAR: I’m afraid I must go. Please accept this in thanks for a lovely interview.
[She hands me a pencil sketch, then crosses the room. Daeryn darts to the door and opens it for her, throwing a wave as he closes it behind them.]
LAUREL: Ah, I better go. No telling what kind of trouble they’d get into here in our time, and I’m not letting my characters disappear when we’ve got two more books to complete. Thanks for having us!
TD: Glad to have you, Laurel. There you go readers, a glimpse into the past with Annmar and Daeryn and maybe even a little sneak peek into an interesting romance.
[I look at the stiff linen paper Annmar handed me. The lines freely fill the page, spare and looping, but come together nicely. It’s me, my hair blown back…like the pages of a book? In the bottom corner are her initials, AM, in a flourish of a circle. I blink. The circle seems to waver slightly—was it blue a second ago?]
Intrigued yet? I was fortunate enough to get sneak peeks as a beta and I can’t wait to read the final polished story. It’s amazing.
You can pick-up your copy today at AMAZON.
Meet the Author:
Laurel Wanrow loves misty mornings, the smell of freshly dug earth, petting long-haired guinea pigs and staring at the stars. She sees magic in nature and loves to photograph it.
Before kids, she studied and worked as a naturalist—someone who leads wildflower and other nature walks. During a stint of homeschooling, she turned her writing skills to fiction to share her love of the land, magical characters and fantastical settings.
When not living in her fantasy worlds, Laurel camps, hunts fossils and argues with her husband and two new adult kids over whose turn it is to clean house. Though they live on the East Coast, a cherished family cabin in the Colorado Rockies holds Laurel’s heart.
Visit her online at www.laurelwanrow.com.
To be notified of new releases sign up for Laurel’s Newsletter
Twitter: @laurelwanrow
Author Facebook Page: Facebook
Goodreads: Goodreads
Pinterest: Pinterest
Tumblr: Tumblr
&
Happy Reading!Tagged: #amreading, #Announcement, #Books, #Characters, #Debut, #Fantasy, #HistoricalFantasy, #MustRead, #NA, #NewAdult, #NewRelease, #Romance, #Series, #Shapeshifters, #steampunk, #Victorian
June 22, 2015
Character Interview ~ Mandy & Lucien make an interviewer blush!
We have a special treat for all the character interview fans out there. We are pleased to announce that THE SCENE has managed to snag an exclusive interview with the lead singer of Eternity, L.J. Slone and the photographer credited with launching the band into the music sphere, Mandy Hayworth, of the music-photoblog, Behind the Scenes. Thank you both for being here.
LUCIEN: It’s a pleasure. *smiles*
SCENE: Wow. Your pictures don’t hold a candle to the real baby blues and smile. That’s a heart stopper right there.
MANDY: *chuckles* Yeah, he’s pretty inspiring, especially when he blushes like that.
LUCIEN: Okay, you two promised not to gang up on me. *squirms* How about we answer some questions. You know, about the band.
SCENE: You got it. Eternity is the hottest local band in the music scene right now. Impressive after only a couple of months. But up until last summer, Lucien, you were pretty much an unknown entity. How did you originally manage to score a write up on one of the hottest music blogs in the area.
LUCIEN: That’s easy. She stalked me.
MANDY: Hey!
LUCIEN: What? It’s true. *dodges half-hearted shove* You waiting outside the club to get the first pictures. In the rain I might add. Man was that hot!
SCENE: In the rain?
MANDY: I wanted the scoop on this new singer who supposedly sang like an angel, yet no one knew anything about. *shrugs* I’ve waited in worse conditions.
SCENE: But it wasn’t until right before their debut that you released any pictures. How come?
MANDY: Someone was a bit camera shy. It took me a while to get him to loosen up.
SCENE: He made you wait?
MANDY: Did he ever—
LUCIEN: *interrupts* Holding images and only releasing snippets was part of my marketing design to get people intrigued. *grins* It worked.
SCENE: So you were a part of the strategy, Mandy?
MANDY: *chuckles* More like the wrench in his plan, but it worked out. Once I put the images together, the results were beyond even what I envisioned. *shrugs* What can I say. He was worth waiting for.
SCENE: Hmmm, I think the temperature just rose about ten degrees in here. Okay next question. Lucien, where do you get your inspiration for your music?
LUCIEN: Mostly my mother. She taught me to play at a very young age. Music was always a part of my life. When she passed away, I felt a need to honor what she taught me, share my gift with the world. It took some time to find the right band. The other members of Eternity, Jay, Rusty and Adam, gave me that chance.
SCENE: And it’s been profitable for all of you. Dark Angel seems latched to a rocket on its way up the charts and people are already clamoring for the full album even before the next single releases. How’s that make you feel.
LUCIEN: Incredible, astonished. *laughs* Terrified. Mandy’s been a huge part in getting the word out to fans and getting us noticed in more than just the local scene.
SCENE: That she has. Mandy, your photos are, to put it simply, freaking amazing. A few featuring Eternity have even won awards. How do you do it?
MANDY: It’s the band really. When you hear the right music, you feel it. The sound permeates straight into your soul and wraps you up in strings you don’t want to untangle. I just managed to capture that intensity in my photographs.
SCENE: But what’s your secret?
MANDY: *smiles coyly* Well if I told you, then it wouldn’t be a secret now would it.
LUCIEN: She’s good at keeping secrets too. *snickers quietly*
SCENE: I have the feeling I’m missing some inside joke here.
MANDY: Most definitely.
SCENE: Where does Eternity go from here? Rumors have been hinting at a national if not international tour coming up.
LUCIEN: I can’t confirm anything yet.
SCENE: But you’re not denying it either. Come on, maybe just a hint.
LUCIEN: Plans are being made *holds up a finger* for something. I’m sure Mandy’s Musical Monday’s blog will be the first to announce any details. *smiles at Mandy*
SCENE: Watching you together, there is no way to deny there is something between you two. Spill. What’s the deal?
LUCIEN: Well, I mean…she’s the band’s photographer.
MANDY: Really? That’s you answer? *huffs* Sharon, if you had the chance to follow around the next up and coming band on its way to the top, not to mention spending your days and nights around this sexy piece sitting *chuckles* or currently squirming next to me, I ask you. What would you do?
SCENE: *laughs* I’d jump in your place in a heartbeat. And you’re right, he is hot when he blushes.
LUCIEN: Oh hell. Fine. You want an answer? Here’s your answer. *leans over and plants a slow sensual kiss on Mandy* This woman makes me want to sing every moment of every day, for all Eternity.
SCENE: Well folks, if that isn’t a show closer, I don’t what is. Tune in next time for more inside insights of your music & art scene.
Want to learn more about Lucien and Mandy?
Check out their story in Images Eternal, available at Amazon or Nook.
If Images are worth a thousand words, hers sing a thousand Eternal songs.
When forbidden from taking pictures of the newest lead singer for an up and coming band, Mandy Hayworth wants to know why. With a supernatural ability to expose truths with her camera, she’s determined to find out his secrets.
Lucien Solvak only had to make a date, give an interview to the hottest local music photographer, get her endorsement, and get out. But when her camera threatens to expose an immortal secret he’s sworn to protect, Lucien has to choose which is more important. The girl, his music, or his life.
Consider reviewing Images Eternal! Request a review copy here or invite Toni Decker to visit your blog.
Tagged: #amreading, #Books, #co-writing, #ImagesEternal, #MustRead, #NA, #NewAdult, #NewRelease, #Paranormal, #Romance, #ShoalmanChronicles, #Sneakpeak, #teaser, #ToniDeckerBooks
June 2, 2015
Shadows and Light – By Nancy C Weeks
Action
Suspense
Total McNeil hotness
Strong women
and most importantly,
Love.
Now you can have all that together in this fantastic boxed set
Shadows and Light – The complete series – by Nancy C. Weeks
What? You don’t know about the McNeil brothers?
*faints*
Then by all means let’s introduce them to you!
Meet five Irish brothers, all sworn to protect and serve – and the smart women who help them take down the terrorists gunning for their family. Lock up your heart: when it comes to love, the sexy McNeils know how to walk this beat.
In the Shadow of Greed: Brilliant cryptologist Dr. Sarah Tu races against time to block the most dangerous Internet malware ever created – and it’s up to FBI agent Jason McNeil to make sure she stays alive long enough to do it.
In the Shadow of Evil: After ten years with Maryland’s Special Crime Unit, very little rattles Jared McNeil. Then his nemesis resurfaces, with his sights set on the woman Jared is honor bound to protect.
In the Shadow of Malice: Adam Blake, ex-CIA operative, has gone to great lengths to keep his identity a secret, but his cover’s blown when he ends up on the run with waitress Calista Martin to protect his little girl.
In the Shadow of Pride: When Lexie Trevena’s matchmaking friends accidentally place her smack in the path of a terrorist who intends to use her as his pawn, the only person who can help her is Special Agent-in-Charge Luke “Mac” McNeil – the man she holds responsible for her husband’s death.
In the Shadow of Vengeance: Elizabeth Merlot can’t afford to let handsome Detective Noah McNeil discover her secret past. But when trouble finds her son, Noah may be the only one who can save their lives.
Sensuality Level: Sensual
SHADOWS and LIGHT
Available at: AMAZON / BARNES AND NOBLE / KOBO
And if you think Nancy’s amazing suspense writing is limited to only her good guys, guess again, as I soon found out when Nancy came to visit our blog.
Little did I know she brought guests…
Nancy: Kira, it is such a pleasure to be back on your blog. You have read all five books from Shadows and Light: The Complete Series and have met all the characters.
Kira: I have and love all your books. But I do have a particular soft spot for a certain “Mac”Neil.
Nancy: In your review for In the Shadow of Malice, you wrote, “Nancy’s villains are evil and I do mean evil. They have no redeeming qualities whatsoever, making the flawed but charming heroes even more appealing in contrast.”
Kira: I did. Your villains are enough to make me check under the bed for monsters. *Spider senses tingling – Think Nancy is about to put ME on the blog spot*
Nancy: For this blog visit, I thought it might be fun for you to meet a couple of my villains and see for yourself if you still believe they have no redeeming qualities. I would like to introduce Elías Mendoza from In the Shadow of Evil and In the Shadow of Vengeance and Mick Ryan from In the Shadow of Pride .
[Both men enter the room. Mendoza is dressed in a dark navy suit that screams expensive. Ryan on the other hand wears black jeans with a black t-shirt, the muscles in his torso, shoulders and arms well toned. Mendoza approaches Kira and holds out his hand.]
Elías Mendoza: It’s a pleasure to meet you, Kira.
Kira: Oh shi…Well, this is a surprise.” [I shake his hand – Firm. Confident. Arrogant] *Think I’m in trouble*
[Mendoza chooses the wingback chair, sits with his back straight and a knowing grin, charm oozing from every pore. Mick Ryan doesn’t say a thing as he drops into the loveseat. His facial features are hard, cold. Nancy must have dragged him here by the ear.]
Kira: It’s an unexpected pleasure to meet both of you. To start this interview, can each of you tell my readers a little about yourself? Nancy considers you her villains. Do you think of yourselves as bad guys?
Mick Ryan: Hell no! I should be called a hero for what I have done. I’m a soldier who fought for this country.
Elías Mendoza: Now Ryan, let us not attack this beautiful woman. Kira, is simply conducting an interview. You don’t mine me calling you Kira?
Kira: Not at all. What should I call you?
Elías Mendoza: Elías, please. It’s a pleasure to be here. I hope to change your mind about me. To answer your question, my name is Elías Mendoza and I control a multi-national corporation.
Kira: An illegal corporation …
Elías Mendoza: Some, but not all of my businesses are legal. In fact, I deal with some of the most powerful people in the world. Why would they associate with me if I had no redeeming qualities? [He leans back and leers]
Kira: [Why indeed – I mutter under my breath] Elías, can you tell me about your relationship with Jennie McNeil?
Elías Mendoza: Jennie and I have an understanding. She is destined to be with me.
Kira: How could that be possible? You killed her parents and brother.
Elías Mendoza: Careful, Kira. Spoiler Alert.” [He lets out a harsh laugh and glances at Nancy] We are connected by a bond so much stronger than anything that bastard Jared McNeil could provide her. The moment we saved each other, our bond was sealed. [His irises swim in pools of blackness] I never let go of what is mine.
Kira: Jared McNeil might differ in that opinion [Swallow when I realize I might be taunting evil itself and turn to Mick Ryan] So Mr. Ryan, can you tell us a little about yourself?
Mick Ryan: Readers don’t like me very much but I don’t give a fu—I don’t care what they think of me. I was a damn good soldier.
Kira: That isn’t why they don’t like you. There was that business with a drone that raised a few eyes. Can you tell us a little why you went after Lexie Trevena?
Mick Ryan: In war, we use the resources available to meet our mission objectives. I have nothing against Lexie. She was a means to an end.
Kira: But you are no longer a soldier …
Mick Ryan: Once a soldier, always a soldier. The battle didn’t end in the Middle East. It followed us home. But those damn politicians in Austin and DC have their heads up their as—sorry, Nancy said to keep it PG. I’m just protecting my country.
Kira: If you could rewrite one scene in Nancy’s book, what would it be?
[Both men glared at each other] The ending!
Kira: Fair enough. I get that you don’t care for the ending. Nancy ends her books with happy-ever-afters that tugs at her reader’s heart strings. Don’t you believe in love?
Mick Ryan: I love my country.
Elías Mendoza: It’s an illusion.
Kira: So you’re not in love with Jennie, Elías?
Elías Mendoza: Jennie’s mine. I own her and she owns me. Love doesn’t exist.
Kira: All right, then. [Looks at the doorway – gauging the distance to the exit.] Maybe a couple fun questions. Mr. Ryan, what is your favorite food?”
Mick Ryan: Why the hell do you want to know that? [Nancy clears her throat] Fine! If MREs are good enough for the men I served with, they are good enough for me.
Elías Mendoza: Neanderthal! You have no class. [His eyes rake Kira from head to toe, returning to her breasts.] How about I show you? Have dinner with me.
Kira: [Throat dry, but fakes a smile] I don’t think that’s a good idea. Besides being married to a Marine, I like my men a little less … evil.
Mick Ryan: [He stands. His back straight and expression is almost too cold to meet eye to eye.] Nancy said we had to answer a couple questions. This interview is over.
Elías Mendoza: [He reaches for Kira’s hand, kissing her knuckles.] Did we redeem ourselves?
Kira: [Shudder] I think I’ll withhold judgment until my readers have had a chance to experience you through Nancy’s books. This has been an…interesting interview. I appreciate you both taking time to talk to me. I can’t wait for the readers to get to know you both a little better.
Elías Mendoza: They may realize that Ryan and I aren’t the true villains.
Kira: They could, but I wouldn’t hold my breath.
[Elías Mendoza and Mick Ryan leave, closing the door behind them.]
Nancy: I feel I need to apologize.
Kira: Girlfriend, when you write a villain, you go over the top! How did you live in their heads for months?
Nancy: I had the McNeil brothers and my amazing heroines to balance the scales.
Kira: *Envisions a certain Special-Agent-In-Charge McNeil* [Dreamy sigh] Mmm, yeah, that would definitely balance the scales a bit.
Nancy: Thanks so much for inviting me back. I left behind a short blurb of each of the books in Shadows and Light: The Complete Series. I better get those two back where they belong.
Kira: [Letting out a noisy huff] Wherever you plan to hold those two, buy a larger lock.
So did Nancy’s villains redeem themselves? Not sure?
Then pick up Shadows and Light today and judge for yourself.
As a bonus you get to meet the McNeil brothers up close and personal, but I am still laying claim to a certain hot blooded McNeil *grins*
To get a little tease of my stories, free chapters from SHADOWS AND LIGHT: THE COMPLETE SERIES can be found here: BOOK PREVIEWS
Kira, it has been a joy spending time with you. I would be happy to answer any questions your readers might have. Please don’t be shy.
Hugs to all,
Nancy C. Weeks
MEET THE AUTHOR
Nancy C. Weeks lives in suburban Maryland with her husband of more than thirty years. With her two grown children out of the nest, she loves spending her days on her deck writing as the local bird population keeps her company.
Find Nancy at:
Website: http://nancycweeks.com
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/NancyCWeeksAuthor,
Twitter: @NancyCWeeks
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7009278.Nancy_C_Weeks
Pinterest:http://www.pinterest.com/nancycweeks/
Happy Reading!
and
Tagged: #amreading, #Announcement, #BookLove, #Books, #BoxedSet, #Characters, #CrimsonRomance, #MustRead, #NancyCWeeks, #NewRelease, #ReleaseDay, #Romance, #Series, #ShadowsandLight, #Suspense, #Villains
May 26, 2015
Cover Reveal~THE UNRAVELING by Laurel Wanrow
Welcome to the cover reveal for The Unraveling, Volume One of The Luminated Threads by Laurel Wanrow! This is a steampunk fantasy romance with new adult-aged characters and themes. The Unraveling ebook is on preorder for a special preorder price of only .99 cents from Amazon! A print paperback edition also features this beautiful cover artwork by the talented Craig Shields, www.craigshields.co.uk.
The Unraveling releases June 23, 2015.
About the Book:
In 1868 England, the competition to control agriculture is fierce…
…and nobody says no to Derby’s industrial magnate.
Except Annmar Masterson. The nineteen-year-old rejects his improper advances and instead takes an advertising position on a farm. She discovers the isolated valley is home to gifted species—including animal and plant shifters—who hide their lives from the rest of England. The blue threads only she sees on their clockwork machinery prove her heritage is rooted with theirs, but their world is so different that Annmar doesn’t know if she’ll ever belong.
Shapeshifter Daeryn Darkcoat blames himself for the death of his mate and swears he won’t be responsible for another pack. But when the farm he loves falls victim to an endless run of strange pests eating the crops, he joins the hunt, taking charge of an unruly team of predator shifters. In the midst of the battle, Annmar stirs feelings he can’t resist.
As Annmar becomes entangled in the fight against the pests, and with Daeryn, she discovers her magic might help…if she can learn to use it properly. If not, she’ll be forced to leave the people she has come to care for and become what she fears most: nothing more than another cog in the magnate’s gears.
THE UNRAVELING is a full-length novel, approximately 350 pages, for readers 18+ (new adult and older).
Please note: This is volume 1 of a three-part serialized novel. Volumes 2 & 3 will be published in 2015 to complete THE LUMINATED THREADS, a steampunk fantasy romance. To be notified of these releases, sign up for Laurel’s Newsletter.
Preorder from Amazon for the special price of only .99 cents!
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About the Author:Laurel Wanrow loves misty mornings, the smell of freshly dug earth, petting long-haired guinea pigs and staring at the stars. She sees magic in nature and loves to photograph it.
Before kids, she studied and worked as a naturalist—someone who leads wildflower and other nature walks. During a stint of homeschooling, she turned her writing skills to fiction to share her love of the land, magical characters and fantastical settings.
When not living in her fantasy worlds, Laurel camps, hunts fossils and argues with her husband and two new adult kids over whose turn it is to clean house. Though they live on the East Coast, a cherished family cabin in the Colorado Rockies holds Laurel’s heart.
Visit her online at www.laurelwanrow.com.
To be notified of new releases: Laurel’s Newsletter
Twitter @LaurelWanrow | Author Facebook Page | Goodreads | Pinterest
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Giveaway:
One (1) winner gets a $10 Amazon gift card, and two (2) winners get paperbacks of The Unraveling by Laurel Wanrow (US/CA/UK)
Ends June 10, 2015
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This event was organized by CBB Book Promotions.
Tagged: #amreading, #Announcement, #Books, #Contest, #coverreveal, #Fantasy, #Giveaway, #June23-2015, #NA, #NewAdult, #Romance, #Series, #steampunk, #UpcomingRelease
March 22, 2015
Best Book Cover 2015 competition
Toni & I are super excited!!
UPDATE: WE MADE THE TOP TEN and moved on to round TWO!
The cover for our second book, SHOALMAN IMMORTAL, is part of the Best Book Cover 2015 competition over at Ultimate Fantasy Books.
A page showcasing all the covers is live at www.ultimatefantasybooks.com
We could really use your votes starting March 30th to push us to the next stage.
BEST BOOK COVER CONTEST 2015
Click the link above or go to:
www.ultimatefantasybooks.com and click on their competition page
How to vote:
If you can give SHOALMAN IMMORTAL’s cover a vote, we’d greatly appreciate it!
Here’s how it works:
Click the link to the site http://www.ultimatefantasybooks.com/competitions.php
Click the big “VOTE” button
Click on the #8 slot labeled NUMBER EIGHT: SHOALMAN IMMORTAL
The competition is in three stages:
[Stage One: Runs from 22nd of March to 29th of March. The ten book covers with the most votes move to stage two.] COMPLETE
–>Stage Two : Runs from 30st of March to 7th of April.
The top two covers move to stage three.
Stage Three: The top two Authors will take over our Facebook page and the front page of the website. The two book covers go to the judges to vote. Results will be announced on the 14th of April.
We made it to Round two!!
Help us make it to round three!!!
Thanks for your support!
SHOALMAN IMMORTAL
SHOALMAN IMMORTAL Available NOW on AMAZON
Kira & Toni
aka Toni Decker
Tagged: #amreading, #Announcement, #BestBookCover2015, #BookCoverLove, #Books, #Confetti, #Contest, #Fantasy, #NA, #NewAdult, #Paranormal, #Romance, #Series, #ShoalmanChronicles, #ShoalmanImmortal, #ToniDeckerBooks
March 10, 2015
SALE-e-bration for Toni Decker Books
Which of course means Dancing and Fireworks
Why all the fun?
One half of the Toni Decker writing team is having a birthday and we decided we’d rather #GIVEAWAY presents to our readers.
So from March 9 through March 13, BOTH our books are on sale for only $.99
I know right? Insane!
But we love to share our stories and want to share them with you.
What you haven’t heard about them yet? Well let me tell you all about them.
BLURB:
If Images are worth a thousand words, hers sing a thousand Eternal songs.
When forbidden from taking pictures of the newest lead singer for an up and coming band, Mandy Hayworth wants to know why. With a supernatural ability to expose truths with her camera, she’s determined to find out his secrets.
Lucien Solvak only had to make a date, give an interview to the hottest local music photographer, get her endorsement, and get out. But when her camera threatens to expose an immortal secret he’s sworn to protect, Lucien has to choose which is more important. The girl, his music, or his life.
You can check out the inspirations behind Mandy and Lucien
BLURB:
Falling in love was never supposed to be part of the picture.
Kyrissa Spears was born with a powerful, and deadly, gift. Her paintings capture emotions so strong they can kill. Desperate to find a teacher capable of helping her unlock and control her abilities, Kyrissa’s search leads her to an artist who may be able to help her. And he’s the one person she can’t accidentally kill.
After five centuries of pain and loneliness, Robert Shoalman craves release from his immortality. He’s all but given up hope until he meets the beautiful and intriguing Kyrissa. She could paint his death and break the curse, but at the cost of destroying her gift and being lost to him forever—none of which will matter if the demon hunting him finds them first.
Inspirations for Kyrissa and Robert
Don’t forget to check out Nerd Girl Official on her FaceBook page for a #RandomSwag #GIVEAWAY for a chance at 1 of 5 eBook Sets for BOTH books in the The Shoalman Chronicles Series all week long!
Another #RandomSwagging #Prize donated by @ToniDeckerBooks #WootWhoot #CheckItOut and #ShareThePost!! Check out her Facebook Page for the giveaway. Share with your friends and fellow readers.
— Nerd Girl (@Nerd_Girl_NG) March 9, 2015
We love connecting with our readers. Catch us on Twitter or follow us on one of our many social outlets.
Happy Reading Everyone!
Tagged: #amreading, #Announcement, #Books, #co-writing, #Confetti, #Dancing, #Fantasy, #Giveaway, #ImagesEternal, #MustRead, #NA, #NewAdult, #OnSale, #Paranormal, #Reading, #Romance, #Sale-e-bration, #ShoalmanChronicles, #ShoalmanImmortal, #ToniDeckerBooks
February 27, 2015
COVER REVEAL – From Origins by Mary Ting
Mary Ting’s upcoming book, FROM ORIGINS.
Release Date: March 27, 2015
Simply Gorgeous!
Skylar, Mason, and the other descendants embark a deadly quest to the underworld to confront the evil Hades, who has been plotting to kill off the descendants of all the gods.
On this journey, they soon discover that the ancient gods are not dead as once believed but are held captive in a secret location. In order to save the world from destruction at the hands of Hephaestus, the descendants must set out on a crusade to rescue the gods.
In the process, Skylar learns more about her bloodline and her powers, but there is also a heavy price to pay. The darkest forces known to man are about to return to reclaim their stolen kingdom.
TEASER
Seeing nothing but darkness through door one heightened my awareness, and the mist that slowly crept out like thin layer of clouds, spreading and covering our feet, brought another level of fright. The ground started to shake, then a sound like thunder boomed, getting louder…louder…until it sounded more like a stampede.
My imagination got the best of me as I envision buffaloes charging for us. Roaring sounds burst in the air when a dozen of the Cerberuses tried to charge through at once. I would have preferred the buffaloes, but instead, we got Hades’s guard dogs.
Their glowing red eyes were what I saw first, then their vampire like teeth, and last three heads to a body. With serpent’s heads on the tips of their tales and lion like claws, they looked like they could rip us to shreds as they dashed for us as if we were a gourmet meal.
“Cerberus. I should have guessed.” Zara quaked, standing next to Tara. Extending both of their arms up, they were creating a shied. Blazing light engulfed us.
“You should have guessed sooner, but I don’t think it would have mattered.” Nick’s eyes glowed, ready to fight. “Here puppy, puppy. Let’s play.”
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Mary Ting resides in Southern California with her husband and two children. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry. Writing her first novel, Crossroads Saga, happened by chance. It was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother, and inspired by a dream she once had as a young girl. When she started reading new adult novels, she fell in love with the genre. It was the reason she had to write one-Something Great. Why the pen name, M Clarke? She tours with Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children’s chapter book-No Bullies Allowed.
Website | Facebook | GoodReads | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest
Tagged: #Books, #coverreveal, #Series
February 8, 2015
COVER REVEAL – Sweet Temptation by Wendy Higgins
#iSighForKai @wendy_higgins
Well, wait no longer!We are excited to present the COVER REVEAL of
SWEET TEMPTATION by Wendy Higgins
Temptation never looked so good!
Sweet Temptation release date: September 8, 2015
(available in ebook and paperback)
BLURB
Bad boy Kaidan Rowe has never wanted for anything—money, popularity, musical talent…hot girls—but seducing them is part of his duty as a Nephilim, slave to the demon Dukes. As the son of the Duke of Lust, Kaidan has learned his father’s ways, becoming a master of passion, a manipulator of chemistry. Disobeying his father would mean certain death. Thankfully for Kaidan, he’s good at his job. And he enjoys it.
Until he meets Anna Whitt—sweet, smart, feisty, and inexplicably good—the one girl seemingly immune to his charms. The daughter of a guardian angel and a fallen one, she has a certain power over him, one that makes him wish for more than he could ever deserve.
Determined to save all the Neph from their dark lives as the influencers of sin, Anna joins forces with Kaidan to overcome the demons’ oppressive ways. In the light of her affections, Kaidan must undergo his toughest test of all, a battle of the heart.
Sensual and swoon worthy, this companion volume to the acclaimed Sweet Evil series from New York Times bestselling author Wendy Higgins, told from the perspective of the irresistibly sexy and mysterious Kaidan Rowe, gives readers revealing insights into his struggle, his intense connection to Anna, and most of all, the true emotions that drive him.
Add Sweet Temptation on Goodreads
You can pre-order now at these sites:
Amazon/Kindle Preorder Link: / B&N/Nook Preorder Link: / Book Depository Preorder Link: / iBooks Preorder Link:
GIVEAWAY
Collect signed bookmarks? (My daughter squeed a bit over this) Then Wendy has a special giveaway just for you.
Yep, that right! Wendy has a Rafflecopter giveaway showing all the covers.
(This is open to international entries.)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
USA Today and NY Times Bestselling author, Wendy Higgins, is a former High School English teacher living in Virginia with her husband and two children.
If you post on any of the following sites, feel free to tag me!
Twitter: @Wendy_Higgins
Instagram: @wendyhigginswrites
Tsu: @WendyHiggins
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/WendyHigginsWrites
Haven’t started the series? *faints*
It’s not too late.
Start Now!
Remember
Sweet Temptation release date: September 8, 2015
Happy Reading!
February 6, 2015
Cover Reveal ~ MOMENT OF TRUTH by Karen Stivali
We are so please to present the cover for Book 2 in the Moments in Time series by Karen Stivali
I love this cover! It’s very Tanner ;)
It fits the intense passion Collin Fitzpatrick finds within Tanner D’Amico.
This next book in the amazing series comes out March 4, 2015 but you can pre-order it NOW here!!
BLURB
MOMENT OF TRUTH (Moments In Time: Book 2)
Collin expected to spend another summer fixing cars and working at the college pizzeria. Instead, he’s living in a beach house on Fire Island, waiting tables at a hip seaside restaurant and, for the first time since he and Tanner got together, they can publicly be known as boyfriends. Being “out” takes some getting used to, but with the help of new and old friends, Collin is happier than he ever imagined. And more in love. But newfound freedom brings unexpected challenges, and when friends get flirty, old insecurities arise. Moments of doubt and jealousy threaten their happiness, and Collin and Tanner must confront the truth or risk losing it all.
Did you miss Book 1, MOMENT OF IMPACT?
Don’t worry, we got you covered. You can pick this book – with one of the BEST FIRST LINES EVER!! – up at these retailers
Amazon / Nook / Kobo / Dreamspinner Press
BLURB
Outside Collin Fitzpatrick’s dorm room is a dangerous place. Beyond his door the students of his small, conservative college think he’s straight, as does his Catholic family who’d disown him if they learned the truth. Inside, he’s safe with his incredibly sexy roommate Tanner D’Amico. Their room makes a perfect place to hide away and fall in love. The moment they cross the line from roommates to lovers, Collin becomes caught between their heavenly passionate encounters and the hellish reality that someone might find out and destroy everything. Tanner’s not used to being so confined, and wants to show the world how much he loves Collin. But Collin’s not sure he’s ready for the impact stepping outside will make.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Karen Stivali is a prolific writer, compulsive baker and chocoholic with a penchant for books, movies, and fictional British men. She’s also the multiple award-winning author of contemporary and erotic romances. She writes novels about love…like real life, only hotter.
Karen’s lifelong fascination with people has led her to careers ranging from hand-drawn animator, to party planner, to marriage and family counselor, but writing has always been her passion. Karen enjoys nothing more than following her characters on their journey toward love. Whether the couples are m/f or m/m, it’s guaranteed that Karen’s novels are filled with food, friendship, love, and smoking hot sex—all the best things in life.
When Karen isn’t writing (and often when she is), she can be found on Twitter attempting witty banter and detailing the antics of her fruit-loving cat, BadKitteh. She loves to hear from readers (and other writers), so don’t hesitate to contact/follow/like her at:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/karenstivali
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenstivali
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/karenstivali/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5170527.Karen_Stivali
Tsu: https://www.tsu.co/KarenStivali
Blog: http://karenstivali.com
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Karen-Stivali/e/B005KWSFGO/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_2
AmazonUK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Karen-Stivali/e/B005KWSFGO/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1
Tagged: #amreading, #Books, #coverreveal, #DiverseBooks, #NA, #NewAdult, #Romance, #Series
Toni Decker Books
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