Friday 31 July 2015

Book Spotlight & Giveaway: Traitor by Jody Wallace





Traitor
Maelstrom Chronicles
Book Two
Jody Wallace
Release Date: July 28, 2015
Genre: Science Fiction Romance 
Publisher: Entangled

Book Description:

Captain Nikolas EstherVorn is a traitor. Or so it was decreed after Niko disobeyed protocol while trying to save Earth from other-dimensional creatures. Stuck in a prison cell, the last thing he needs is to be in close proximity to sexy-as-sin Dr. Sarah CallenJoseph. Not with him damn near ready break out just to get to her.

Niko's desire isn't quite his own…and Sarah can prove it. He—along with the other soldiers on the disastrous mission—were drugged with some kind of toxin. Niko has no clue how the drug got into his body or why, but Sarah suspects there’s a link between the toxin and the fertility crisis of Shipborn humans.

To investigate is forbidden. But as lust becomes something deeper, binding them together in a way neither expected, Niko and Sarah must battle time—and their superiors—to uncover the secret that could save humanity...or destroy it.

***

About the Author:

Jody Wallace grew up in the South in a very rural area. She went to school a long time and ended up with a Master's Degree in Creative Writing. Her resume includes college English instructor, technical documents editor, market analyst, web designer, and general all around pain in the butt. She currently lives in Tennessee with her family: one husband, two kids, two cats. One of her many alter egos is “The Grammar Wench,” which should give you an indication of her character. She is a terrible packrat and likes to amass vintage clothing, books, Asian-inspired kitchenware, gnomes, yarn, and other items that threaten to force her family out of the house. She also likes cats. A lot.

ody publishes the Maelstrom Chronicles with Entangled Publishing, an Earth-based science fiction romance series. You can find other science fiction, paranormal, and contemporary romances by Jody at www.jodywallace.com, including her horrible science fiction romance spoofs, The Adventures of Mari Shu, which make fun of the Maelstrom Chronicles, among other science fiction concepts and stories.

Website: http://www.jodywallace.com

Blog: http://blog.jodywallace.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodywallace

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JodyWallaceAuthor

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/jodywallace

Newsletter: https://madmimi.com/signups/104974/join

***

Tour Giveaway

A pair of handmade crocheted UFO earrings US Only

$35 gift card to Amazon open internationally

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Thursday 30 July 2015

Book Spotlight: Satyr From the Shadows by Rebekah Lewis





Title: Satyr from the Shadows
Author: Rebekah Lewis
Genre: Paranormal Romance

Long ago, a nymph fell in love with a mere mortal destined to be a legendary hero. Until the gods saw fit to tear them apart and tamper with fate.

Everyone has heard the story of Daphne and Apollo, of her transformation into a laurel tree to escape his obsession. If only it were so simple. Held prisoner for thousands of years, Daphne is close to death until a last minute rescuer smuggles her out of Olympus and to Melancton, the satyr she loves.

Melancton has always preferred to be on his own, keeping to the shadows and maintaining a stoic appearance. Only Daphne can be the light to his darkness, and now that she's returned, the fear of losing her again shakes him. With grave danger lurking on the horizon, Melancton and the satyrs of The Aegean Inn prepare for battle, but the odds are stacked against them.

Meanwhile, Apollo enlists the aid of Dionysus in his determination to reclaim Daphne and punish those responsible for her disappearance. Is it possible to survive the fury of the gods?

***

Excerpt:

Whispers erupted in the flickering torchlight as Daphne rounded the corner. Inside, three figures perched on marble stone slabs around a boiling cauldron.

"I told you she would come. Did I not?"

"Yes, yes. We all knew she would. It was the when which was questionable."

"I cannot recall the color of her thread."

"It was clear. I remember."

"Are you sure it was not red? I am thinking red."

"No, no. It was black. Misery and twists and twists and twists—"

Daphne cleared her throat, and the three Fates silenced themselves and turned to her, blinking in unison. Apollo had left her behind while he traipsed throughout the mortal world, enlightening mortals to art and music. Finally allowed freedom to roam about on her own, she embarked on a search for Hermes. When that failed, she began exploring and meeting the inhabitants throughout.

Which was how she found herself inside the cave of the Moirai. Three women dressed in white robes, in a cave, talking about threads; had to be who they were. Although, they didn't seem to be ghastly, old, blind women as the tales claimed, but beautiful women with creamy pale skin from the lack of sunlight.

"Apologies for interrupting. I was roaming and did not realize this cave was inhabited." She turned to leave.

"Do not leave!'

"Please stay."

"We have been expecting you."

Daphne didn't know what to say. It would probably be considered rude to deny the Fates any request. Were they talking about my destiny being miserable and twisting? The woman in the middle wrapping a silver, sparkling thread around a thick staff. The thread originated from a spindle held by the woman on the left.

"I do not wish to be a bother," she said, afraid maybe they were merely being courteous.

The woman on the right, smoothed a hand through her white hair as though to strengthen her appearance. She stood and glided to where Daphne lingered and took her hands. "Do not rush off. We rarely receive visitors on the Olympus side. Mortals." She waved her hand dramatically over her shoulder. "All the time they come to us, demanding this, bargaining for that. I am Atropos. Clotho is my sister over there." She pointed to the fiery-haired sister on the left. "In the middle is Lachesis."

"I am Daphne."

"The nymph, we know," Lachesis commented.

"Apollo tampered with your destiny," Clotho added.

"We were displeased. Zeus won't permit me to cut him." Atropos' voice was soft and high like a child's though she appeared, like the others, to be in her prime.

"Cut him?"

"His string." Clotho smiled. "What did you think she meant?"

All three giggled.

Atropos pulled Daphne toward a long slab sitting across from them with the cauldron in the middle. Bubbles formed and popped at the surface of the acrid fluid, steam rising.

"Speak with us," said Atropos as she hurried back to her seat.

"We have only time." Lachesis glanced up from her twining the string around the staff. It had been silver and shiny moments before, but had darkened to black.

***

About the Author:

Rebekah Lewis holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature. She is an award-winning cover artist for digital publishers, and enjoys every minute of it when not immersed into a world of satyrs and Greek gods. Always feeling the need to be productive, she can be found creating something whether with words or images, or with arts and crafts. She resides in Savannah, GA with her cat, Bagheera.

Pre-order Satyr from the Shadows for the special price of $2 off. The book will go back to regular price on August 1st.

Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/qaubmyt
Barnes & Noble: http://tinyurl.com/p8m2yjk
Kobo: http://tinyurl.com/nhdbs8t
iTunes: http://tinyurl.com/nbep29d
All Romance: http://tinyurl.com/p85hyer

Author Links
Website: www.rebekah-lewis.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/RebekahLewisAuthor
Twitter: www.twitter.com/RebekahLLewis
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/6537317.Rebekah_Lewis

FREEBIES
Midnight at the Satyr Inn Short Story
Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/n5fyldx

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Release day facebook party with giveaways and author takeovers July 31:
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Wednesday 29 July 2015

Guest Post & Giveaway: Devil's Nightmare by Robert Pruneda





Sharky’s Top 10 Indie Reads

Thanks for stopping by for another visit on my Devil’s Nightmare Bewitching blog tour. Today, I’d like to share a list of favorite books that I’ve read over the past couple of years, but since I started my writing journey as an indie author this Top 10 list will focus on indie authors.




10 | Eleven by Carolyn Arnold

Eleven is an FBI thriller that has great character development, a unique writing style that dares to “break the rules”, and an excellent overall story. Carolyn Arnold wrote the characters in Eleven very well. They each had their own unique personalities, and it is evident that the author put a lot of time and care into developing them. They were created in a way that didn’t overwhelm you with a lengthy back story or flashbacks, but instead you get to know a little more about them as the story progresses.

Carolyn Arnold “breaks the rules” when it comes to her writing style in Eleven. It begins with the reader following the story from the main character’s perspective. Later, however, as the story unfolds, Arnold makes a shift and tells the story from the perspective of her antagonist. It’s works very well in this novel.

The author also did a very good job of keeping me guessing throughout the investigation. Just when I thought the FBI team was on the right track, something threw them off. I had my suspicions of who the killer was (I was wrong of course!), but I was pleasantly surprised when Carolyn finally revealed the identity of the serial killer.

9 |Billy Purgatory: I am the Devil Bird by Jesse James Freeman

The title character Billy Purgatory is a loner with a bad-ass attitude and says some of the funniest one-liners that I’ve ever read. Billy’s quest for his true meaning in life, and more importantly finding the mother that he’s never known, takes the reader through some fantastic adventures that span the globe. He encounters gypsies, mystical beasts, zombies, and one pain-in-the-butt vampire, just to name a few. Medusa even makes an appearance in this novel in a way that I never would have expected.

Jesse James Freeman has a very interesting style of writing where you get to know several of the characters from their own perspectives while also enjoying other elements of the story in the third person. His writing is clever and near flawless; you can tell he treated this novel with care and did not rush it to publication. There is a lot of character development in Billy Purgatory, and while the switch in perspectives may be a little bit distracting at times, I feel it worked well. The lengthy character development is also completely necessary as each character has a very important role in the overall story. As an avid gamer, for me it was like playing a huge role-playing game with several side quests that all tie in to the main story. Each individual character’s story is woven together masterfully to Billy Purgatory’s main quest.

In my opinion, the final chapters are where this book shines the most. The fast-paced writing in the action scenes kept me turning the pages and reading well into the night. Billy’s conflicting relationship with Anastasia is also one of the best character relationships that I’ve read in a while.

8 | Enigma Black by Sara Furlong Burr

I’m not a big fan of superhero stories, but I really enjoyed Enigma Black. As I read it, I found myself engrossed in the story in a way that I felt a connection with the characters and cared about their fate. The author did a great job of character building and moving the story along.

Even if you rarely read superhero stories, like me, if you enjoy action, romance, sci-fi, conspiracies, humor, or all of the above, you’ll more than likely enjoy Enigma Black. I loved the relationship between Celaine and Blake (the two main characters), and Cameron is one of my favorites; he’s such a smart ass. I think the narrative is where the author shines the most. She did a good job with her shifts between first (Celaine Stevens) and third person perspectives. Dialogue sometimes feels a bit too formal, but overall it was great! Sara wrote some entertaining lines in Enigma Black, particularly between Celaine, Black and Cameron.

The story does end in a cliffhanger, but not in such a way that it feels unfinished. I’ve never read a book that was flawless, and there are a few minor formatting issues in the e-book (mainly with some indents here and there) and a few minor typos, but they were minor and limited. Enigma Black is an easy, enjoyable read.

7 | Blood Skies by Steven Montano

Blood Skies is a unique fantasy read with vampires that don’t sparkle. I wasn’t certain what to expect when I started reading this book, but Steven Montano promised “real vampires” in his marketing material. Vampire stories still aren’t my preferred choice, but I figured I’d give this one a chance. Blood Skies surprised me and far exceeded my expectations.

I love reading fantasy and grew up playing Dungeons & Dragons when I was a kid (still a big fan of the computer games), so I was pleased to see some familiar creatures make it into Blood Skies. However, this is not your typical fantasy story. That took some getting used to. Blending undead creatures (such as vampires, wights, liches, zombies and hellhounds) with modern weaponry and the arcane powers of witches and warlocks was something that gave Blood Skies a unique touch.

Montano’s descriptive writing in this fantasy-adventure was top-notch. He paints a vivid picture of each scene and does an excellent job of narration and dialogue. This is one of the most unique fantasy novels I’ve read in a long time and left me craving for more.

6 | Gabriel’s Redemption by Steve Umstead

My normal reading usually consists of fantasy, horror, and thrillers, but I decided to try out the SciFi genre with Gabriel’s Redemption. After reading the first chapter, I immediately grew interested in the story. I have to admit I was a bit confused at first. I just didn’t understand some of the technology, such as “neuretics” and “Mindseye.” I blame that on my lack of reading science fiction novels, but it started making more sense as I continued reading. The author did an excellent job of creating believable technology that isn’t too far-fetched.

There’s a lot of backstory in Gabriel’s Redemption. Some readers noted that it was too slow-paced, but I disagree. I rather enjoyed it. Steve gives just enough without going into information overload. If you are the type who expects action from the first page all the way through the end, a little patience goes a long way. Umstead rewards that patience with some intense action and a satisfying ending! I finished reading Gabriel’s Redemption with a smile on my face.

5 | Osric’s Wand: The Wand Maker’s Debate by Jack D. Albrecht Jr. and Ashley Delay

Osric’s Wand: The Wand-Maker’s Debate is a very enjoyable tale with magic, talking beasts, wizards, and dragons. And I love dragons! If you enjoyed reading The Chronicles of Narnia and Eragon as I did, then you’ll more than likely enjoy the Osric’s Wand series. I loved the main characters in this book. I particularly enjoyed Gus, the talking prairie dog. This creature’s sarcasm and grumpy demeanor kept me smiling and laughing throughout. Jack D. Albrecht Jr. and Ashley Delay have created a world that is a great start to an epic fantasy adventure. It. For a debut novel, I was very impressed.



4 | In Her Name: First Contact by Michael R. Hicks

After reading Gabriel’s Redemption, I picked up a very popular science fiction series by friend and “mentor’ Michael R. Hicks. In chronological order, this is the first of several books in the epic science fiction fantasy series. It took me a while to read this one only because it’s lengthy and I’m not a very fast reader, but I absolutely loved this book. There’s a reason why Michael Hicks is one of my favorite authors, not only because I know him personally, and he’s been personally helpful to me as an author, but because of his writing style and attention to detail. He created a believable world and executes his story in such a way that I’ve not seen from many of the best New York Times bestselling mainstream authors out there. If you enjoy reading science fiction, don’t pass this one up. It’s free on all ebook platforms to hook you . . . and it will.

3 | As the Ash Fell by AJ Powers

One of the things I look for most in a novel is good character development. AJ Powers did a phenomenal job of that. His characters felt realistic. They spoke and acted in such a way that was believable in their situation. I felt like I was personally getting to know Clay, his family, and the other characters in the story. I cared about them. It was so hard finding a good stopping point every night I read this novel, and due to my growing interest in the characters, I wanted to know more. Heck, there were even a few times that I turned off my Kindle, went to bed, and then decided to read just one more chapter.

The overall story is what really drew me in. What would it be like if the supervolcano at Yellowstone erupted? The author only briefly touches on that subject, but I think it worked well. The story isn’t so much about the eruption, but how a man struggles to keep his family alive and safe from the real threat . . . other people. As the Ash Fell has a good mixture of suspense, drama, some romance, and action, but what I really loved most about this novel were the characters and their relationships. AJ got bonus points for making a grown man cry, so that bumped Michael Hicks’s In Her Name: First Contact down a rank, but he still gets the No. 2 spot.

2 | Season of the Harvest by Michael R. Hicks

I told you Michael Hicks was one of my all-time favorite authors. Season of the Harvest gets the runner-up spot.

I have always been a fan of fiction based on reality, such as Jurassic Park and Prey. It’s one reason why I’ve always enjoyed reading books written by the late Michael Crichton. He knew how to entertain us with a good work of fiction based on reality, and he often got me thinking, “Could this really happen?” With the passing of Mr. Crichton, I never thought I would find another writer who wrote in a similar style until I read Season of the Harvest by Michael R. Hicks.

It had all the elements I was looking for, including the science fiction based on reality. This particular book focuses around the science of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), something that is very real and a bit scary if you do some reading about it. But what if the food you ate was genetically altered and you didn’t even know about it? After reading Season of the Harvest, you may think twice about taking a bite out of that corn on the cob.

Aside from the science fiction/horror based on fact aspect of Season of the Harvest I think one of the best things about this book is that it is fast-paced and has a lot of action. It is written very well, flows well, and has a satisfying ending. In fact, the ending got me screaming at my Kindle (just like screaming at the television). But that’s a good thing. Michael did a great job at ending the story that left me disappointed at the outcome, but completely satisfied at the same time. It’s hard to explain without giving anything away. You’ll just have to pick up a copy of Season of the Harvest to find out. Oh, by the way, this one is also free on all e-book platforms.

1 | Imago Chronicles: A Warrior’s Tale by Lorna Suzuki

The battle sequences shine in A Warrior’s Tale. L.T. Suzuki did an amazing job with the detail in this story of Nayla Treeborn, the half-human/half-elf female protagonist, in this compelling fantasy story. A Warrior’s Tale is very long, but well worth the read.

The story starts a bit slow, but only because the author spends this time building up the main character. There is A LOT that goes on in the first book of the Imago Chronicles. It spans over several years of Nayla Treeborn’s life (she is half-elf after all). The author kept me engaged in the story and I’m pleased to say that it left me with a smile on my face. I’m glad I also purchased the print edition for my fiction library because it includes maps of Eastern and Western Imago (printed on the back pages), which is a nice bonus.

A Warrior’s Tale is not the typical fantasy that I’m used to reading, but that is definitely a positive note. I think where Suzuki shines the most is in the battle scenes. They were awesome! And there is plenty of it! I loved her descriptive detail of the action scenes, and it does not surprise me that these books are in production for a major motion picture with Oscar-winning producer Don Carmody on board. Suzuki placed me right in the middle of the action with her battle scenes. I could almost hear the sounds of steel clashing and arrows flying through the air as I read A Warrior’s Tale. I can’t wait to see the movie!

***

Devil’s Nightmare
Devil’s Nightmare Series Book One
Robert Pruneda
Genre: Horror
Publisher:  Forsaken Imprint 
Booktrope Publishing
Date of Publication: July 15, 2015
Cover Artist:  Laura Hidalgo

Book Description:

Veteran homicide detective Aaron Sanders thought he’d seen it all, but nothing could have prepared the seasoned detective for the mutilated remains of a kid’s parents or the equally vicious deaths of three boys at another crime scene.

As Aaron works to solve the cases and protect his only witness, an orphaned child, he learns of an ancient curse that leaves him questioning all he’s ever believed. Now, to save himself and the child, Aaron must confront his own inner demons, and some he never knew existed. But if he does, will he make it out alive?

Devil’s Nightmare is an occult suspense horror novel by Robert Pruneda, who shakes readers with his visually graphic scenes, supernatural twists, and disturbing settings in this first installment of the Devil’s Nightmare series.

***

About the Author:

Robert “Sharky” Pruneda is a native Texan, video game “enthusiast” [addict], and fan of all things horror. He left a career in the newspaper industry in 2011 to pursue the life of a nocturnal author, brainstorming new and creative ways to creep out his readers. He doesn’t only write horror though.

He also pens the occasional family-oriented tale just to keep from going completely nuts with all those creatures of the night whispering in his ears. When he’s not pulling ideas out of his twisted brain, you’ll likely find him on social media or fighting alongside his fellow gaming buddies where they all get shot up into Swiss cheese (or turned into little bite-sized chunks because of “Sharky’s” obsession with explosives). Medic!

Pursue your dreams . . . and never look back.

https://twitter.com/SharkbaitWrites

http://facebook.com/AuthorRobertPruneda

https://www.goodreads.com/SharkbaitWrites

http://www.amazon.com/Robert-Pruneda/e/B004WDX2PG

https://www.youtube.com/user/SharkbaitWrites

Newsletter sign up http://bit.ly/SharkyNewsletter

***

Tour giveaway 

2 paperback copies US Shipping

2 ebook copies

Grand Prize Pack a signed copy of Devil’s Nightmare, swag, and $25 gift card

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Tuesday 28 July 2015

Book Spotlight & Giveaway: Desecrated Beauty by Kyleigh Castronaro





Desecrated Beauty
Twisted Fairy Tales 
Book One
Kyleigh Castronaro
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Date of Publication: July 6th
Number of pages: approx. 180
Word Count: 58,883
Cover Artist: Kyleigh Castronaro

Book Description: 

Once upon a time, that’s how most of these stories start. But this isn’t one of those stories… Sure, it has the heroine and the hero but they’re not as you would expect them. Both of them have a bloodlust, one different from the other.

Quill was born and raised as a cold killer who takes enjoyment from the kill. Nero is the son of a Viking and a 1500-year-old vampire whose never been denied his pleasures before.

Until he meets Quill. He forces her to exchange her life for Rose’s, his indentured servant and Quill’s little sister. Drawn by her fearlessness and strength he has to have her but such a woman cannot be possessed. Both must learn to give up their carefully afforded control to let the other in. Only then may they have their happily forever after.

Sink your teeth into this dystopic re-telling of Beauty and the Beast and satiate your booklust.

http://getbook.at/desecratedbeauty

***

Excerpt: 

“I thought I might choke and die on your blood, but because I’ve already ingested some I would come back to life… like you.” She looked up at, her eyes wide with the panic that had gripped her before looking down at her feet again and taking a deep breath. She hated feeling vulnerable in front of him like this. But most importantly she hated not having all the answers like he seemingly did.
   
“The process is a little more complicated than that, but you would be temporarily held in a state between beings until I decided to claim you.”
   
“And would you have?” She looked up, her voice quiet as she spoke. There was an underlying fear in her question. A part of her was repulsed by the idea and yet the rest of her longed to know he would have her. She needed to know he would keep her even if she weren't the feisty human woman he claimed he was so intrigued by. When had she decided that his opinion of her was that important? When had she decided at all to allow a man to determine her fate?

 Nero looked back at her unflinchingly as he moved closer to her, reaching out and tracing her lips gently before bringing his hand up along her jaw toward her ear. His fingers toyed with the hair tucked behind her ear before he shook his head at her.
   
“I would have to, I’m afraid to admit.”
   
She stared back at him in surprise, unsure of what she was supposed to say. She was far too distracted by his lingering fingers and how they gently caressed her skin, moving along it and forcing it to blossom into gooseflesh.

 
Bringing herself back to the moment she swallowed hard, forcing some kind of sound from her lungs, “why?”
   
“Because you have enraptured me in the most illogical way. Never before has a human woman been able to hold my attention for so long. Something about you calls to me like a familiar lullaby I once knew.” He paused, seeming to gather his thoughts. “My life will last forever but trifling with a mortal can feel like an eternity in hell. Humans by nature are far too slow, uncultured, undomesticated and someone my age doesn’t have the time to break something like that. But then I met you… You, curious you, who fights back, who questions me, who doesn’t want me in the way all women who have ever looked at me have. I don’t understand it, but I want to and worst of all I want you in a way I have never wanted anyone. I don’t need others, but I need you. I feel myself longing for it and whether it would be against your will or not I would change you because I cannot live without you.”

“One day you will have to.” She whispered quietly, staring at him with a bewilderment he had grown so accustomed to.
   
“Not today.” He whispered back, his voice much lower than hers as he leaned in and caught her lips with his. It was a bruising kiss that she felt all the way down into her toes. It ached in a way that touched her heart and soul. She felt it flow through all her veins and consume her like a fire.

***

About the Author:

Kyleigh Castronaro is the author of the debut series Grace of Gods. She is a self-published author who tackles many of her projects entirely on her own. She designed the cover of her first novel, self-edited and prepared all formats of the book for publication. Originally from Milton, Ontario, she currently lives in Nottingham, England with her husband and their adorable miniature dachshund Hera.

When not writing Kyleigh enjoys spiritual development, crafting, travelling, spending time in nature, going to the movies, cooking and baking (and then eating), working on self-improvement and spending time with friends and family.

http://kyleighcastronaro.com

http://twitter.com/kcastronaro

http://pinterest.com/kcastronaro

https://www.facebook.com/authorkyleighcastronaro

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8415377.Kyleigh_Castronaro

http://Author.to/KyleighCastronaro

***

Tour giveaway 

1 $20 Amazon GC

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Monday 27 July 2015

Guest Post & Giveaway: Of Love and Darkness by Tami Lund





Guest Post: Writing Shifters
by Tami Lund
Author of Of Love and Darkness

Here’s a question: why shifters? I’ve now started two series centered around shifters – the Twisted Fate Series (Of Love and Darkness is the first of three books) and the Lightbearer Series. Twisted Fate is entirely about shifters, while Lightbearer was supposed to be about magical beings called, well, Lightbearers. Yet when I threw shifters into the mix in that series, it became about shifters. How did that happen?

The answer is simple: shifters are one of my favorite genres to read. So not coincidentally, I also happen to enjoy writing about them. They are sexy, strong, powerful, hot, did I mention sexy? In my reasonably extensive research, I have learned a few things about these seductive alpha beings.

I’ve learned they all have one thing in common. All shape shifters have the ability to change from human form into…something else. And that, as far as I have been able to determine, is the single aspect that defines every shifter in every book I’ve ever read or written. Beyond that, well, every author interprets them a little differently. Which is the way it should be, right? We’re talking magic, and magic is defined by the imagination of the person writing it.

Some shifters can only change into the form of one animal. These are typically referred to as were-animals (werewolves, were-bearers, were- you get the picture). Others are able to shift into pretty much any animal, or, as I like to explain in my books, the form of any warm-blooded being. The shifters in my Lightbearer Series can even shift into the form of birds, if they are so inclined. This comes in handy when one wants to escape rapidly and he’s on the second floor or at the top of a cliff (both situations occur in the first book in this series).

Many shifters’ clothing cannot shift with them. The clothing is either shed before the shift or, if the shift must occur with little notice, the clothing is torn to shreds when the body changes and alters, and the shifter must figure out another means of covering his naughty bits when he returns to human form.

The shifters in my books can shift while wearing clothing, and when they return to human form, their clothing returns to their body exactly as it was before the shift. I admit, I made this decision out of convenience. I considering the no-clothing route because, let’s be honest, that makes more sense, from a non-magical standpoint. But I was having a difficult time writing the whole, “Hold on, I have to strip and hide my clothing for later” aspect into the various scenes and plots and sub-plots of the series. So I decided if magic can make a person change from human to animal, then magic can make that person’s clothes reappear when they return to human form.

Some shifters have the ability to speak to each other telepathically. Some are able to harness other forms of magic, too. Some have glowing eyes. In my Lightbearer series, the shifters’ eyes glow when they are feeling strong emotions. Anger, frustration, sadness, passion. Even if the shifter is trying to act stoic and passive, the object of his desire, if she is smart enough, can figure out pretty easily that he feels something, if his eyes are glowing. It’s practically a declaration of love.

Or lust.

Some shifters eat only red meat. Actually, the desire to eat red meat might possibly qualify as the second thing all shifters have in common, now that I think about it. Or maybe not. A vegetarian shifter could make for an intriguing storyline.

Many shifters have obsessive, jealous personalities. Like a dog, protecting his bone. Or his house. Or his mate. My shifters have this trait. In fact, it plays heavily into the next couple of books in the Lightbearer series.

I’m sure I’ve missed a few common traits. What other traits do you notice in your favorite books about shifters or weres? Which common traits are your favorite?

***

About the Book:

Of Love and Darkness
Twisted Fate
Book One
Tami Lund
Genre: Paranormal, Shifters
Publisher: Soul Mates Publishing
Date of Publication: June 24, 2015
Number of pages: 181
Word Count: 60k
Cover Artist: Syneca Featherstone

Book Description:

OF LOVE AND DARKNESS kicks off the new Twisted Fate shape-shifter series. There are two kinds of shifters: Rakshasa and Light Ones. Rakshasa want to snack on human bones. Light Ones want to protect the humans.

Unfortunately, the Rakshasa are currently winning the battle, as the Light Ones are not fertile. Only one type of Light One, exceedingly rare females called Chala, are able to produce offspring. The Rakshasa know this, and have managed to nearly decimate the population.

Enter Gavin Rowan, a cursed Rakshasa who believes he is a Light One. He feels all his Rakshasa urges to kill, but has been cursed to protect the Light Ones instead.

Throw Sydney Amataya into the mix. She is a Chala– except she doesn't know it. At least not until Gavin saves her from a Rakshasa attack and then declares her as his mate.

But that’s not how Sydney operates. Encouraged by her cross-dressing Fate, William, she refuses Gavin’s claim. If he wants to mate with her–once she gets over the shock of discovering this supernatural world, that is–he's going to have to woo her, impress her, wine and dine her. Romance her. She deserves no less, end of the world be damned.

Available at Amazon



***

About the Author:

Tami Lund likes to live, love, and laugh, and does her best to ensure the characters in her books do the same. After they've overcome a few seemingly insurmountable obstacles first, of course.

Tami is multi-published, both self and with a few publishers, including Crimson Romance, Liquid Silver Books, and Soul Mates Publishing. Chances are, there is a new book coming out soon. Be sure to stalk her on social media, so you know when.

And most important, if you enjoyed one of Tami's books, please let other readers know by leaving a review on the site from which you bought it, or on Goodreads. Otherwise, how will they know which book to read next?

Website: http://tamilund.com

Newsletter Signup: http://eepurl.com/baCo4j

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTamiLund

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TamiLundAuthor

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/TamiLundAuthor/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5169798.Tami_Lund

TSU: http://www.tsu.co/TamiLundAuthor

***

Tour giveaway 

Paw Print Bracelet

Lightbearer collection – all three books currently available in the series (Ebooks)

Into the Light – first book in the Lightbearer series – free (Ebook)

You can enter here

Sunday 26 July 2015

Book Review: Left to Darkness by Craig Saunders


Left to Darkness
by Craig Saunders
Apocalypse/Horror/Dystopia
DarkFuse Publishing
ARC from Netgalley
4 Stars

Blurb:

A meteor strikes the Earth. Dirt and dust fill the air. Only a few people remain under the setting skies, and those who still live find it's not God's England anymore.

It's the Devil's turn.

Lines are drawn between the dark and light. For the darkness, James Finley and his cult for the end of days. On the side of light, Paul Deacon, the lost policeman, and Dawn Graves, the last mother.

To survive, they must put their lives in one man's hands: Frank Liebowicz, a killer with a soft spot for lost causes. Because come Armageddon, God won't choose his champions.

They'll choose themselves.

Review:

After the earth is hit by a large meteor, civilisation as we know it is destroyed. Anarchy reins, looting, violence, murder are soon rife, and law and order are no more than words of how the world used to be. Lots of people have also disappeared, the M25 around London is now nothing more than an empty car park. All the people from the cars have disappeared. Where did they go and why are some people still left behind?

The story is told through three main characters: Dawn Graves, heavily pregnant and despairing at what sort of world her child will soon be born into. Frank Liebowicz, a thug and killer for hire, who is not a psychopath and has no particular love for violence. He does it because he's the size of a wrestler and he's good at it, it's work to him, nothing more. Paul Deacon, once a policeman, now blinded by a group of cannibals, called the Butchers, but he is saved by Frank, who in the meantime has lost an arm and is on his last legs.

An unexpected voice on Paul's police radio reveal there are more survivors holed up in a hospital in King's Lynn, including Dawn who is due to give birth any time now. They barely have time to wonder how a voice from King's Lynn even reached his radio before they find a truck and drive there, and that's when everything comes to a head. Too late, they realise they have been manipulated all along and someone is desperate to get Dawn's baby.

The book was well-written and fast-paced, but this is not a book for the faint-hearted. Some things are very gruesomely described - torture, amputations, murders etc. and at times I had to skim over those parts.

As with most books, perhaps even more with a post-apocalyptic setting, you need characters that you can relate to, or empathise with, or even hate just a little. The book certainly does this and personally I felt the most empathy for Dawn, but I was rooting for Paul and Frank too.

Half-way through the book, I wasn't sure I could read any more, as it seemed to have turned into some sort of zombie story - people eating human flesh and not dying - it sounds very zombie-like to me and I do not like zombies. It never mentioned in the blurb that zombies might be appearing, otherwise I wouldn't have gone for this book at all.

Anyway, I was half-way through and I kept reading because I was so engrossed in our heroes' journeys that I just had to see what happened to them.

The book ends on a cliff-hanger, so I suspect it is the first of a series, and again the blurb didn't mention that.

Suitable for those who enjoy dystopian fiction with a sense of the mysterious.



Book Spotlight: Domino Effect by JL Williams


Domino Effect: She came, she swore, she conquered
by JL Williams
Erotic Romance/Romantic Comedy
BDSM/Femdom
Buy links: Amazon
Author Website: http://www.jlwilliams.net


Melody Ash has a problem. She’s lost her job as a web designer. She’s been kicked out of her home. She hates her family. She’s always done what’s expected of her – and now her life is spiralling out of control.

So when the chance to be owned for a week by charismatic casino millionaire John Domino comes around, she jumps on him.

But when the week is up and the scars have healed, Melody faces a challenge: turn the tables on John or lose him forever.

Domino Effect is a mesmerising, stomach-churning exploration of the roles we play at work and home. It blends eye-opening exploration of BDSM& femdom subculture with high comedy and romance.

***

Excerpt:

Casino

“Black twenty-five.”

Black twenty-five! Black twenty-five! Melody glanced at her stack of neatly stacked, slippery casino chips. Over £100 - all the money she’d brought with her - sitting patiently on the green baize. An electric, animal thrill travelled down her spine. She licked her lips and waited. “Black twenty-five,” repeated the croupier, pushing a fresh pile of chips toward her. She checked them over, flashed a smile, then couldn’t resist clapping her hands.

“I can’t believe you just did that,” said Tracy, walking over from the other side of the table.

“Meh.” said Melody. “I was ready to go.”

“Better make sure you don’t lose it all now, playing like that,” said Tracy, forcing a smile. “You’re going to be getting the drinks in later.” Tracy narrowed her eyes. Trust this to happen to me. This is supposed to be my night. You’re not even playing properly. Supposed to be my night, and you’re sat there flicking your hair like a prostitute, not wearing the dress I picked out for you, and pretending to be a Bond girl or something. Only complete idiots bet all their money on one number. But of course somehow you managed to win. Well done, sis. I can’t believe I actually paid for you to come here.

Melody ran her nails along the stack of chips. Clack-clack-clack-clack. Three-and-a-half thousand pounds. In faded casino plastic it didn’t seem like much, but Melody remembered holding about that much in cash once, when a friend was buying a used car. It certainly seemed like a lot of money then, dirtily bulging out of the envelope.

“I’m bored of roulette,” said Tracy, eyeing Melody’s stack of money. She didn’t step down from the table. Just stared at Melody, challenging her to find another activity.

“Come on then,” said Melody, after a pause. “Do you want to try another table, or go somewhere else?” She smiled faintly, adding: “I wouldn’t mind getting something to eat.”

“I don’t want to leave yet. Roulette’s just boring. It’s random.”

Tracy’s best friend Sarah joined them: a shuffling, squat toad with a monobrow who was shy in public and a vitriolic bitch in private. “How about poker?” she prompted.

Melody ached to go back to the hotel. Her drunken glow was beginning to fade and it was a cold October night outside. “Sure!” she said. “How do you play?”



Saturday 25 July 2015

Book Spotlight: The Widow's Son by Tom Shawver





Title: The Widow’s Son
Author: Thomas Shawver
Genre: Mystery / Thriller

Thomas Shawver, author of The Dirty Book Murder and Left Turn at Paradise, returns to the surprisingly lethal world of rare books with a third enthralling novel featuring a most unlikely hero -- antiquarian bookseller Michael Bevan.

A furious man from nearby Independence, Kansas demands that Michael Bevan return a rare first edition of the Book of Mormon, claiming that it was mistakenly sold by a disgruntled descendant of A.J. Stout. Contained on the frontispiece are a list of Ford names dating from 1845 to the present. Beside each name, save the last two, is a check mark - but what could the checks signify? With this discovery, Michael Bevan stumbles onto a trail of hatred and murder stretching back to 1844.

Author Bio 

Thomas Shawver is a former marine officer, lawyer, and journalist with American City Business Journals. An avid rugby player and international traveler, Shawver owned Bloomsday Books, an antiquarian bookstore in Kansas City.

Website: http://bloomsdaybooks.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThomasShawverAuthor
Goodreads: Goodreads

Links
Penguin Random House | Amazon | BN | iBooks | Books-A-Million | Kobo











Friday 24 July 2015

Author Interview & Giveaway: Isabelle Saint-Michael


About the Author:

Isabelle Saint-Michael is a cupcake enthusiast, shoe addict, and globetrotter. She is known for her sense of adventure and geeky hobbies. She is frequently seen haunting coffee shops and pubs into the wee hours of the morning. No matter where she goes, shenanigans and mirth are never far behind.


Do you plan everything or just let the story flow?

I outline all my stories before I write them, but I let magic happen within the guidelines I set for myself. A lot of times I won’t know if a scene is going to be funny or serious until I write it.

Do your characters ever want to take over the story? 

My characters do nothing but take over the story. It’s a large part of why I write in the first person. I want people to feel like they are experiencing the story first-hand because my characters often have a louder voice than I do.

What is your favourite food?

Coffee. All right, my editor is looking over my shoulder and insisting that coffee is not a real food so I should choose another one. Probably sushi.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

A night owl.

Where do you dream of travelling to and why?

So I’ve traveled quite a bit in my life already, but my assistant Kenzi and I are going to Scotland for a month next year for research. I’ve spent quite a bit of time in Europe and Asia. I think I would like to see more of South America next.

Do distant places feature in your books?

Totally. I live in Seoul, South Korea right now, but my publisher is based in the UK and I’m American. The UK, China, Korea, Australia, and the North Pole all show up in my books and blog.

Do you listen to music while writing?

I do. I love singing along loudly and out of key while I write.

Could you tell us a bit about your latest release?

Dragon’s Guide to Slaying Virgins is much more of a fantasy with a love story and sexy scenes in it than it is a romance with fantasy elements. It’s not about the Hero and Heroine overcoming something so they can be together. It’s about being together despite everything that is going on. The romance is totally there, but it’s mixed nicely together with daring sword fights, mysteries, and heartbreak. Through it all, I do promise a happy ending.

What have you learned about writing and publishing since you first started?

1.) You can’t please everybody. 2.) It’s never easy writing something that challenges the common perception of a genre. 3.) If you aren’t writing a story you love, why are you writing it?

Is there anything you would do differently?

Write more diversity into my cast of characters.

Who, or what, if anything has influenced your writing?

I have had some amazing mentors during my life. I have an over-the-top unbelievable mom who proudly tells people her daughter writes “Elf Smut”. AND my fans. Honestly, I may not have tens of thousands, but the fans I have are the world’s most amazing.

Anything you would say to those just starting out in the craft?

Don’t be afraid to write something that isn’t mainstream. Don’t feel like you have to tell a story a certain way because that’s what is popular in the genre right now. Write a book you can be proud of and that you would want to read. Twenty years from now you won’t want to look back and hate your early work because you sold out or weren’t true to yourself. It may be a quiet and lonely road sometimes, but at least you know it is your own.

What are three words that describe you?

Shenanigans, Kindness, Workaholic

What's your favourite book or who is your favourite writer?

To date my favourite book is Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte.

My favorite writer, though, is something entirely different. I would not be the writer or the reader that I am without the works of Robert Lynn Asprin or Anne Rice.

Blurb of your latest release or coming soon book


Dragon’s Guide to Slaying Virgins
Otherworld Realms 
Book Three
Isabelle Saint-Michael
Genre: PNR/Fantasy Romance
Publisher: Otherworld Romance, LLC
Date of Publication: June 26th, 2015
Word Count: 104K
Cover Artist: CL Smith

Book Description: 

Lady Morgan is a Knight of Queen Mab’s court. She’s earned it too – while most other Fae were playing tricks and using come-hither glamours on the unsuspecting, she was out saving the day – and finding true love.  But when fate steals her one shot at happiness, Morgan decides to find out if there really is no job, too big to handle alone.  Armed with a strong sword arm, a never-ending supply of wit, and very little magic, she is willing to take on the most dangerous of enemies…

Vallen is what most knights would consider their mortal enemy: a Dragon.  He’s also Sir Vallen, a member of an ancient order, and the years since he joined have made him as hard and grumpy on the inside as he is scaly on the outside.  His honor would never allow him to take the easy path, though, only the right one… which leaves him in something of a predicament when he first meets Lady Morgan…

When the strings of fate cross, Knight and Dragon set aside their differences to fight a common foe – and find the second chance at love they never knew they were looking for.

Amazon | BN | Smashwords | Kobo

***


List of previous books if any

Practical Uses for Princes with Pointed Ears
Holiday Spirit for Hire
And of course the epic blog “Elven Life” that started it all.


Any websites/places readers can find you on the web

Website: ElvenLife.com
Twitter: @IsabelleStMike
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IsabelleStMichael
Personal Blog: https://isabellesaintmichael.wordpress.com/
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/IsabelleStMichael

Goodreads- https://www.goodreads.com/
Amazon- http://www.amazon.com/Isabelle-Saint-Michael/e/B00OV2XRR6/


***


Tour giveaway

$25 Amazon US, Kobo, or BN  Gift card Winner’s Choice

4 ebook copies in Kindle, Nook, Kobo or Smashword format. Winner’s choice.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thursday 23 July 2015

Guest Post & Giveaway: Breaking Her Rules by Jennifer Snow





Guest post-My Journey to Publication
by Jennifer Snow

Growing up, I was very fortunate to be raised in a family where my brother and I were never told we couldn’t do something. From a very young age, my parents instilled in us that we could accomplish anything we set our mind and our heart to, therefore at sixteen, I decided I was going to be an author. I had always written short stories and poetry, so in high school I decided to try to write a novel and I did. It was a lovely sweet teenage romance and I thought it was the best piece of fiction ever written, so naturally, I submitted it to Harlequin Romance. But not only did I submit my novel, without a clue how to do so…I also pitched them a new series line. When I think back on it now, I marvel over my lack of fear and possibly common sense, but either way-off it went.

I remember getting the rejection letter because it was summer time and I was sitting on my front step with a few friends when the mail courier arrived with the envelope. I was so excited I couldn’t breathe and when my friends asked what it was, I remember saying-“Harlequin wants to publish my book!” I was so naïve back then  What was actually inside though was almost as good. The letter was a rejection, but a very positive, helpful one that said my writing showed promise, but they didn’t currently have a YA line and in order to write for the adult lines, I would need more life experience. It went on to provide some helpful writing resources, and they encouraged a future submission.

Flash forward a couple of years-okay eighteen years, and I am about to release my 9th book-BREAKING HER RULES. The first book in my new MMA Sports Romance series releasing through Berkley/NAL.  With three holiday themed novellas and my Harlequin Heartwarming Brookhollow series, it’s been a busy four years since my first novella was published through The Wild Rose Press, but I’ve enjoyed every moment.

Eighteen years ago, writing full-time was a dream. One that I’m so glad I never gave up on.

Xo

Jen

***

Breaking Her Rules
Beyond the Cage 
Book One
Jennifer Snow
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Penguin Random House
Date of Publication: July 21, 2015
ASIN: B00UGG11L0
Number of pages: 300
Word Count: 72k
Cover Artist: Penguin Random House

Book Description:

MMA fighters go the distance in this all-new series from Jennifer Snow, author of the Brookhollow novels.

Walker Adams was supposed to follow in his lawyer father’s footsteps, but instead he’s training to be an MMA fighter. And while he works for his chance to make it in the Maximum Fight League, he’s bunking on his baby sister’s best friend’s couch. Gracie Andrews is all grown up—in all the right places. But she’s engaged to the fight match-maker who holds Walker’s career in his hands…

Gracie had almost convinced herself that she’d put her silly childhood crush on Walker to rest. But the sight of him sleeping in only a pair of boxer briefs makes it clear that some things never change. And as old sparks turn to flames, Gracie is forced to decide between the future she thought she wanted or the man she’s never stopped loving…

Book Trailer: https://youtu.be/8zESotH73fY

Available at Amazon


***

About the Author:

Jennifer Snow lives in Edmonton, Alberta with her husband and four year old son. She is a member of the Writers Guild of Alberta, the Romance Writers of America, the Canadian Author Association, and SheWrites.org.  She is also a regular blogger on the Heartwarming Authors site and is a contributing author to Mslexia Magazine, WestWord Magazine and RWR. She has also taught RWA Chapters courses online.  Her 2013 Holiday Romance-The Trouble With Mistletoe was a finalist in the 2014 Golden Quill Contest and the Heart of Denver Aspen Gold Contest.

Her publishing credits include two holiday novellas, previously published by The Wild Rose Press, now re-released or being re-released as self-published editions through Amazon. The Mistletoe Fever was an Amazon bestseller for two weeks in the category of Kindle Short Reads. Her six book small town, Brookhollow series is published through Harlequin Heartwarming and she has a new MMA sports romance series releasing through Berkley/NAL Intermix in 2015. RT Reviews has given each of her Brookhollow series books 4 stars.

She also hosts an annual SnowGlobe Award contest in recognition of holiday themed romance stories, with over forty entries each year, with participants ranging from new authors to NYT Bestselling authors, such as Brenda Novak and Sarah Morgan.

More information about the contest can be found at www.snowglobeawardcontest.vpweb.ca

She is active on her website, Facebook, Twitter, and various blog sites and has a monthly author newsletter.

More information can be found at www.jennifersnowauthor.com

@jennifersnow18

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Beyond-the-Cage/1515111635435090


***

Tour giveaway 

5 e-book copies of BREAKING HER RULES

$20.00 Amazon giftcard and a swag pack

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Wednesday 22 July 2015

Book Spotlight & Giveaway: Remembering Raven: Sabine by Lacey Edward





Remembering Raven: Sabine
Remembering Raven Book 2
Lacey Edward
Genre:  Paranormal romance/suspense
Publisher: Asselin Group Online Publisher
Date of Publication: April 24, 2015
ISBN: 978-1511873895
ASIN: B00WMXCK0G
Number of pages: 104
Word Count: 20,000

Book Description:

Raven LeClaire is still reeling from the murder of a young woman that turned out to be a reading client when there is another disappearance. On top of her connection to the victims, she is grappling with some newly discovered psychic abilities that have appeared, seemingly, from nowhere.

Then there is the very handsome and sexy Viktor Thorssen. She knows that he wants her as much as she wants him but he keeps turning away from her at the last minute. As frustrating as it is for her, she has no idea of the turmoil that he is suffering at having to keep her at arm’s length.

There are secrets that Raven needs to know before Viktor will feel comfortable entering a physical relationship with her. He feels that there is too much going on in her life at the moment and he does not want to overwhelm her by confessing his secrets to her. And he has many of them.

Things are quickly escalating as another beautiful young woman becomes a victim of horrible torture and murder. When she appears to Raven, she and Viktor are, once again, drawn into a deadly game where someone quite dangerous is controlling the players. While the police have no real leads, Viktor thinks he may have an idea of who is behind it all.

He has an enemy that dates back centuries. This is an enemy that he thought he was rid of forever. Now, as it turns out, that may not be quite true. All he knows is that he must stop this monster before both he and Raven become victims again.

Is Raven ready to hear the whole truth? Viktor knows that the only way he has a chance of winning is to tell her everything. But can he risk it?

Book Trailer: https://youtu.be/qIrhlx6Bu0M

Available at Amazon


***

Excerpt:

“Now remember to contact me if you need me,” Raven LeClaire said to her latest reading client.

“I so appreciate that, Ms. Raven,” Aimee said effusively as they hugged. “It just makes me feel so much better knowing that you’re here for me!”

“I want to be here for you, Aimee,” Raven replied. “Now you go get busy with what you need to do. Don’t be afraid. You will be able to pull this off with no problem.”

Raven walked Aimee to the front door of the shop and gave her a final encouraging smile. Then she watched the young woman as she walked with a determined gait down the busy sidewalk through the throng of people.

Yes, Aimee can do this as long she keeps up her determination.

Finally turning away from the window, she walked back to join her friend and business partner Allegra Canelle at the front counter.

“So, were you able to help her?” Allegra asked.

“Yeah, I think so,” Raven nodded. “As long as she keeps her determined spirit, she will prove to her boss that she is more than ready for this promotion over that newer guy working at the firm. Aimee’s doing all the right things so far. She just needs to push it a little harder. That guy she’s up against for promotion really isn’t ready to take on all of this responsibility. Sometimes that good old boys network still raises its ugly head. But she can beat it.”

“That’s good to hear,” Allegra smiled. “Anytime you are right in a reading, our business skyrockets.”

“Well, you know what they say about word of mouth advertising,” Raven laughed. “I suppose you are heading out with your mystery man tonight?”

“Of course,” Allegra said as she tossed her mane of auburn hair coyly. “I can’t explain it, Raven. But I have such a connection with this guy! He makes me feel everything that all of those bodice ripper romances talk about.”

“Really,” Raven stated dubiously. “You have said that in the past, you know.”

“Yes, yes,” Allegra said dismissively. “I’m well aware of how I have behaved with men in the past. But I’m telling you, Raven, this guy is truly different.”

“Well, then, I can’t wait to meet the man that has turned my friend around when it comes to serious romances.”

“You will meet him, I promise,” Allegra said as she raised her hand as if swearing what she said to be the truth.

“Can’t you at least tell me his name?” Raven inquired.

“I suppose that telling you his first name wouldn’t hurt anything,” Allegra said hesitantly. “Ok, his name is Philippe.”

“Wow,” Raven said as she raised an eyebrow. “That’s quite a fancy name he has!”

“Don’t you start!” Allegra exclaimed. “You were the one that wanted to know his name!”

“I know, I know,” Raven laughed. “I was just teasing you. It really is a very nice name.”

“Well, that’s all the information you’re getting on him for now.”

“So tell me,” Raven leaned into to Allegra. “Does he dress French?”

“Stop it!” Allegra exclaimed as she swatted a hand at Raven.

***

About the Author:

Lacey Edward was born and raised in Canada. She writes mainly paranormal romance fiction but enjoys throwing in a little mystery and suspense for good measure and to keep things interesting. Her first experience with vampires was the Barnabas Collins book she read in grade eight. She devoured it and never looked back - well, maybe over her shoulder once or twice.

Lacey lives in the country with her husband and two daughters. They enjoy skiing and sliding in the winter, swimming, golfing, and boating in the summer, and music all year long. Lacey also tries to keep up her mixed martial arts skills, just in case one of her unsavoury characters comes to life...

For up to date promotions and release dates of upcoming books, sign up for the latest news on her website: www.laceyedward.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/laceyedwardauthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/laceyedwardbook

Amazon Central Author Profile: http://www.amazon.com/author/laceyedward

***

Tour giveaway 

1 $20 Amazon gift card

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tuesday 21 July 2015

Book Spotlight: Finding Gabriel by Rachel L. Demeter


Finding Gabriel
by Rachel L. Demeter
Historical Romance
Momentum (Pan Macmillan)
Release Date: Aug 27 2015
Pre-order at Amazon UK | Amazon US | Amazon AU

Blurb:

Colonel Gabriel de Laurent departed for the war intending to die.

After a decade of bloodstained battlegrounds while fighting in Napoleon's army, Gabriel returns to the streets of Paris a shattered and haunted soul. Plagued by inner demons, he swallows the barrel of his flintlock pistol and pulls the trigger.

But fate has a different plan.

Ariah Larochelle is a survivor. Orphaned at twelve and victim to a devastating crime, she has learned to keep her back to walls and to trust no one. But when she finds a gravely injured soldier washed up on the River Seine, she's moved by compassion. In spite of her reservations, she rescues him from the icy water and brings him into her home.

Now scarred inside and out, Gabriel discovers a kindred spirit in Ariah – and feelings he imagined lost forever reawaken as he observes her strength in the face of adversity. But when Ariah's own lethal secrets unfold, their new love is threatened by ancient ghosts. Can Gabriel and Ariah find hope in the wreckage of their pasts – or will the cycle of history repeat again?

Perfect for fans of Gaelen Foley's Lord of Ice and Judith James's Broken Wing, Finding Gabriel features all the dark romance, searing passion, and historical intrigue of The Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables.

***

Excerpt:

Ariah stood beneath the immeasurable night sky as she admired the breathtaking view. She lost herself within the constellations, allowing those luxurious diamond strands to coil around her heart. Numberless stars reflected within the Seine’s glassy surface and set the water afire. Breathing deeply, Ariah reached out and folded her hands atop the stone balustrade.

This is where she’d found him. Her heart picked up speed as memories of that fateful night invaded her mind and body. Down below, water lapped against the embankment and infused the atmosphere with a soothing lull. A flashback of Gabriel’s motionless form materialized within the shadows . . . and Ariah’s chest constricted as she relived his every kiss and touch.

Then –

A gentle pressure whispered against her back. Gabriel’s unique aroma filled her spirit while strong arms enfolded her from behind. Somehow, some way, she’d known he’d be here tonight.

She sighed deeply and relaxed within his protective embrace. One hand lost itself in her curls and delicately sifted through the strands; the other applied subtle pressure to the base of her spine in a ghostlike caress. Breathless and at peace, she spiraled into a decadent trance. She drank in each sensation . . . the mesmerizing caress of his fingertips against her scalp, the wind’s crisp breath, the Seine’s haunting lamentations . . .

Gabriel brushed away the swarm of curls, exposing her ear to the night, and breathed against the fine cartilage. This was the moment she’d feared for weeks – the moment of their parting. Then he sang to her – his voice rich, warm, and sultry, and all other thoughts fell away.

“The gentle breath of winter sings,

It cools my brow and furls my wings.

And when the dusk at last descends,

I shall keep my hope, steel my heart, for never will thy love depart.

Now you are come all my grief is gone,

Let us forget those nights that never dawned.”

The rich cadence of his voice seduced her into calmness. Fighting to hold back tears, she rotated in his arms, never once leaving the security of his embrace. Indeed, she’d stay with him until the very end – and they wouldn’t part a moment sooner. She tilted her chin up and met his expressive gaze. The nearby oil lamp shone brightly behind Gabriel, silhouetting his strained features. She directed his body to the side, needing to see his eyes, directing the shadows from his face.

“You remember.”

Gabriel shook his head while a riot of emotions crossed his features. “I shall never forget.”

***

About the Author:

Rachel L. Demeter lives in the beautiful hills of Anaheim, California with Teddy, her goofy lowland sheepdog, and her high school sweetheart of eleven years. She enjoys writing dark, poignant romances that challenge the reader's emotions and explore the redeeming power of love.

Imagining dynamic worlds and characters has been Rachel's passion for longer than she can remember. Before learning how to read or write, she would dictate stories while her mother would record them for her. She holds a special affinity for the tortured hero and unconventional romances. Whether crafting the protagonist or antagonist, she ensures every character is given a soul.

Rachel endeavors to defy conventions by blending elements of romance, suspense, and horror. Some themes her stories never stray too far from: forbidden romance, soul mates, the power of love to redeem, mend all wounds, and triumph over darkness.

Her dream is to move readers and leave an emotional impact through her words.

Don't be a stranger! Rachel loves to connect and interact with her readers:

Visit Rachel's Official Website: http://racheldemeter.net
Stay in the loop with Rachel's Author Newsletter: http://tinyurl.com/rldnewsletter
Follow Rachel on Twitter: @RachelLDemeter
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Add Rachel on Goodreads: http://goodreads.com/RachelLDemeter