Novelly Nice

BTS Tours Presents: Holiday Jinx by Abbey MacInnis

2013-01-10T00:01:00.001-05:00

Title: Holiday Jinx

Author: Abbey MacInnis

Publisher: Abbey MacInnis Publishing

Length: 300 pgs

Sub-Genres: Holiday, Paranormal, Elf

BLURB:

It's the most wonderful time of the year...unless you're single and lonely. Jinx--one of Santa's elves--is in trouble with the Big Guy. She's been charged with bringing holiday happiness to Christopher Ragan, CEO of Wondrous Toys. It's a big job especially when he's more attached to the bottom of a bottle than helping his fellow man. She's got enough trouble without spilling the secrets of the North Pole, but then along comes Natalie Burnes, a newbie CEO of Enchanted Toys and in trouble of a hostile takeover from Christopher's company. The woman literally crashes Christopher's vacation plans in a tucked away Michigan cabin---and the sparks start flying. As if Jinx's job of matchmaking the toy makers isn't hard enough, she's got to stay one step ahead of the North Pole patrol and keep out of sight of the humans. No way is she gonna screw up and lose her magic again. If the humans can't find happiness and love by Christmas, Jinx forfeits her chance of seeing her true love too. What's an elf to do?

EXCERPT:

This excerpt is from the beginning of Chapter Two.

Run. Get out of here. Adrenaline pumped through Natalie’s system, but fear kept her riveted in place. Light from the bedroom spilled into the hallway and gleamed off broad, bronze shoulders and muscular thighs. The man stood about six foot three. From her vantage point, she noted his tight glutes and ripped biceps, an obvious indication he didn’t neglect his physical health.

Natalie scrambled to find the courage to drag her gaze from his naked torso, up his wide chest, and farther still to his face that appeared like textured marble in the artificial light. She deduced he meant her no harm when he stumbled back against the bathroom doorway, his hands covering his ears.

If he were some crazy person, he’d already be after me. What kind of robber would go around in the middle of a blizzard naked anyway?

Her fright dissipated as she glimpsed his taut jaw set at a stubborn angle. He remained still with his shoulders back and legs spread. He crossed his arms and stared her down, his expression pinched.

A hot, annoyed, naked guy was the last thing she expected to encounter in her cabin. She didn’t know who was more caught off guard. “What the hell are you doing here?” she demanded, taking another step back.

A faint niggling of recognition stirred her brain cells. I can’t be right. Fate can’t so readily be handing me who I’m wanting to see, and in such a nicely presented package.

He pushed his wavy blond hair from his furrowed brow and regarded her from deep, intense blue eyes. “God, am I still dreaming? I thought I was rid of you.”

Dazed, she shook her head. This time, she was wrong. Fate had decided to help her out. This naked hottie was indeed Christopher Reagan. And what was he talking about? He was the intruder. “Um… No, I just got here.” That sounded like an apology. She hardened her voice. “Why are you in my cabin?”

“He’s been waiting for you,” whispered that same voice she’d heard on the porch. This pulled Natalie’s attention from the naked guy. He wasn’t the one who had spoken. To be sure there wasn’t anyone else in the room, she scanned every corner. To her consternation, she found nothing.

I must be going crazy. Or the resident ghost in this place is more active than I’d like.

“Did you just hear something? A voice maybe?” she asked.

He hesitated for a moment, blinking as he gaped at her. “Hear what? You screamed loud enough to burst an eardrum. That’s all I heard.”

Maybe I’m more tired than I think. Hearing voices. Seeing naked men. Is this naked man real? At least he looked real, standing there in the flesh. The very sexy flesh. She struggled not to openly ogle him. He showed no such restraint as he perused her from her tangled, damp hair to her frozen toes, warming her blood.

She turned away from that burning stare. Her heart rate slowed, but her anger rose as she saw the bottles and glasses on the floor and recognized that Reagan, the intruder, had apparently been making full use of her cabin.

She flattened her lips into a hard snarl. “Who do you think you are? This is my cabin. With this mess,” she swept her arms wide, gesturing to the bottles, “you act like you own the place.”

He tilted his head in that arrogant way that sent familiarity slamming through her. She’d seen that look before and hated it now as she had then. “I do own this place. Rather, my family does. I’m Christopher Reagan, and this is my uncle’s cabin.”

She had yet to observe a look of acknowledgement in his eyes, though she’d rather pretend she hadn’t recognized Reagan at all. She’d traveled all this way to see him, but not unclothed and in her cabin. There was only so much of the man she could handle.

This excerpt is from the beginning of Chapter Five.

Natalie shook her head. “I’m not up for any tournaments tonight. The trip here fried my brain and discombobulated my nerves. I’ll never be the same again.”

“Oh, come on. How about a quick game? Every goddess has to learn to be a good loser.”

“Goddesses need sleep. I’ll need to be completely rested before I accept any challenges. And then you’re the one who’ll need the extra rest since I’ll cream you in your particular game of choice.”

Chris couldn’t help but taunt, “You’re too tired to play a short game of Scrabble, princess? Just one little game?”

She moved closer and stared him down. He knew Natalie hated being confronted, but he loved goading her. “It’s just a stupid board game. Are you that bored?”

“Yes. This evening has been particularly unamusing,” he replied drolly. Sparring with her was more fun than vegging out in front of his plasma TV. If he were being honest, he was glad to have company, even if she wasn’t his first choice. “But I understand,” he complied. “Princesses are easily worn out. They pass their days primping and spending all their money.” He looked down at her un-chipped nails painted with the colors of the holidays. “They waste so much energy doing silly tasks, like their nails.”

“You think I’m spoiled?”

“Could be.”

“My nails aren’t so nice. See?” She raked them down his arm. She wasn’t playful about it, exerting enough pressure to leave red marks on his skin.

“Do you always result to assault to get your point across, princess?” He seized her hand in his, containing her fingers.

Her hand squirmed, the fragile bones under the soft skin flexing in his hold. He held fast. “I find physical contact works best when talking becomes a moot, wasteful pastime,” she said, her eyes flashing bright. “Especially when one’s opponent’s skull won’t crack with one hit to the head. Sometimes they need several hard thunks to dent their stubborn skulls.”

Good, she thinks me an obstinate, selfish bastard. Just what I want. “Ah, so you love scratching me up, princess?”

“Could be. You’re lucky they’re not as deadly as they were a few days ago. If I were truly spoiled, I wouldn’t want to get my hands dirty. I spend as many hours at the office as you.” She tugged her hands from his and tapped her index finger against his manicured nails. “Maybe even more. Could be you’re the spoiled little prince. Look at those buffed nails and perfect cuticles,” she mocked. “My my, your royal high ass, how masculine they are.”

It was his turn to yank his hand away. She made him sound like a sissy with a superiority complex. “I don’t need to get my hands dirty. I’ve been through that stage. My company can run itself,” he shot back. “Can’t be easy being you when you can’t enjoy the fruits of all your hard labor.”

“Getting your hands dirty keeps you on your toes. I spend long hours coming up with new solutions for my company. Guess you love your golf game more, huh?”

“Very cute, princess.”

“What…the little prince doesn’t want to play a game now?” she reproached. “We just did. Cat scratch fever, and I won.” She waggled her fingers over his arm. “How’s it feel to lose, your royal high ass?”

“Thought you needed sleep. You’ve been fooling me all evening. You look like you just came off a runway.”

Chris was an expert at melting the panties off willing women. But as much as he wanted Natalie, he knew he wouldn’t get closer with the normal, boring, insincere pickup lines. That line wasn’t the usual for him. He’d actually meant it. Despite the bags of exhaustion under her eyes and the stress tensing her shoulders, she was beautiful. Not in the made-up, fake, enhanced way women he was used to associating with were. Her beauty was more natural and earthy.

Natalie’s combined snort and burst of laughter sent warmth sprinting through him. It wasn’t a fake I’m-laughing-to-appease-you kind of chuckle, but an honest-to-God from-the-gut hoot. “Oh, Reagan, you’re outdoing yourself. I look like hell and I know it.”

“No, really. From where I’m sitting, hell looks pretty great.”

Her kick from under the blanket couldn’t hurt a flea, but he pushed back all the same. Their feet became entangled under the quilt, her body heat seeping under his skin. “Stop it, Reagan. You’re flattery’s killing me.”

“Let’s do away with the formalities once and for all, Natalie. You saw me naked as the day I was born. That takes us to first names automatically in my book.”

“Okay then, Chris.”

He liked how his name rolled off her tongue like a sip of fine port.

“I think I’m going to turn in though. I’ve had a long day.”

The combined temperature from the fire and their bodies settled him and did away with the rest of his hangover. There was a part of him that didn’t want her to leave him since he’d be alone again. Her sweetness temporarily did away with his despair, and for a moment, Chris basked in the feeling of contentment. “I should turn in too,” he agreed, distracted as his gaze fixated on her mouth, yet he didn’t move to rise from the love seat.

Don’t go all soft where she’s concerned, Reagan. So what, you want to kiss her. It would be just one little, harmless kiss. Just like sex is sex. Stop reading more in to it.

BOOK TRAILER:

http://youtu.be/f0wwXbh4dcw

BUY LINKS:

Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/254618

Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A6U4AXC

Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/holiday-jinx-abbey-macinnis/1113787846

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Abbey MacInnis is a published author of Contemporary Western romance. Along with Contemporary, she writes Historical, Paranormal and erotic romance. Whether she’s being swept off her feet by a Medieval knight, regency rake, or cowboy or cop, her heroes are always strong men who’ll love their women unconditionally.

On most days, Abbey can be found at her computer, penning her latest tale. A tale where love, respect, and passion combine to create a satisfying and happy ending. Guaranteed. She invites you to step in to the pages of her romances, to leave your worries behind and get swept up in her world.

http://www.authorems.com

W/A Abbey MacInnis

http://www.abbeymacinnis.com

Independent women meet their match with heroes who need a good woman.

@Abbey_macinnis

My Cover Art Design: Article 5 Excerpts

2012-12-11T00:01:00.000-05:00

Author Kristen Simmons ran a cover design contest for use on her site when she posts excerpts from her book Article 5. I wanted to make my design be complimentary to the original cover art. It turned out pretty good, I think.

Official cover for Article 5 by Kristen Simmons

My cover for Article 5 Excerpts

(click to enlarge)

Image Credits

Looking at the Sea by SSPIVAK

Manhattan by ilklim (only used the clouds though)

Woman crying at the beach by CathleenTarawhiti

Review: Hollywood Holiday by Sasha Summers

2012-12-10T00:01:00.000-05:00

I'm excited to be participating in the blog tour for Hollywood Holiday by Sasha Summers. Also, there is a wonderful giveaway associated with the tour. For more information on the giveaway, head on over to the Inkspell Publishing blog.

Title: Hollywood Holiday
Author: Sasha Summers
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: InkSpell Publishing (Dec. 7th 2012)
Get it: InkSpell Publishing

NOTE: Story is for mature readers due to some sexual content.

Synopsis
All she wants for Christmas is for Hollywood to love her again. But once she meets him, her Christmas list changes.

Jen’s only Christmas wish: Hollywood falling back in love with her. Meeting ex-Marine Gunner was a bonus. She likes that he isn’t impressed by celebrities or the movie biz. She likes that he’s funny and sweet … and drop-dead gorgeous. And she loves that he has no idea who her alter-ego is: Jen Fleming, Hollywood bad-girl and paparazzi target number one. Why ruin an amazing affair when he’s leaving after the new year?

But the closer they get, the harder she falls, and the more she wants to tell Gunner everything. Especially once he shares his secret with her.

Her new Christmas wish: Gunner accepts and loves her for who she really is.

Review

Hollywood Holiday is the sequel to Hollywood Ever After which I previously reviewed and loved. In this book you have Jenny, a famous Hollywood actress who is returning home after a stint in rehab for a problem with alcohol. She's terrified to fly (unless she's drunk), but the man she ends up seated next to on the plane is more than kind and helpful to her while she's freaking out, and he doesn't even know who she is. By the time they arrive in L.A., they both are interested in seeing each other again even though Jen is afraid that Gunner, the ex-Marine she befriended, will hate her if he finds out who she really is.

Gunner is headed to L.A. to visit his family for Christmas after several years of not seeing them, one year of which was spent in a military hospital. There is something about Gunner that makes him shy away from closer relationships with woman, but he really liked Jenny and is hoping to see where it might lead.

This is another great story by Sasha Summers. I loved that Jen was not in anyway like you might expect a Hollywood starlet to be: mean, arrogant, selfish, etc. She is very down to earth, humble, and caring. She's not above taking public transportation due to having her license revoked for a drunk driving accident. She wants to put her life back on track and be a better person than she was before. And she just hopes that Gunner can see her for who she is now and not the person she was before. The problem is ... telling him.

Gunner doesn't like actors, or liars. An incident from his past has made him a bit prejudiced against them. Even when Gunner finds out that Jen is an actress, though he is still unaware of who she really is, he's accepting of her job choice and realizes that he was being unfair. I absolutely loved Gunner! He is perfect. I don't know what else to say about him.

There were a couple things that didn't add up for me though ... and I read the book three times. As I'm sure you can imagine, Gunner does find out what Jen's professional name is. But I don't understand his reaction; I don't understand his anger. Sure, he feels lied to even though Jen tried to tell him more than once. He never once recognized her as someone famous. He'd never met her before. She never did anything to him worth getting so upset over. So why? I am leaving out part, so as not to give anything away, but even then, it doesn't make sense to me. Apart from that there were a couple things that I feel, having read book one a couple times, were inconsistencies within the story but are very minor things. And although I did like that Jen wasn't arrogant and she has some insecurities, I think that I would have liked her even more if she didn't obsessively worry about what Gunner's reaction to learning the truth might be.

One last thing, I loved that practically everyone from book one was brought back for this story! I really enjoyed getting a glimpse into Claire and Josh's life since book one. Plus Claire's kids, mother, and Josh's father and sister. I am very much looking forward to reading the next book in this series!

** I received an eARC copy of the book from InkSpell Publishing for review.**

Find Author Online
Website | Blog | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter

Review: Whisper of Memory by Brinda Berry

2012-12-05T00:11:00.001-05:00

Title: Whisper of Memory
Author: Brinda Berry
Genre: YA, Paranormal, Fantasy
Publisher: Etopia Press (Nov. 5th 2012)
Get it: Amazon, B&N

Synopsis
Weapons training and winter formals...a deadly combination.

All Mia ever wanted was to fit in at Whispering Woods High. But being a portal-finder who dates a guy from another dimension sort of makes it hard. Mia's brother disappeared over a year ago, and agents from the IIA began policing people's movements through dimensions. She'd trusted Dr. Bleeker from the local university when he'd told her the IIA were the bad guys. But even a girl with an extraordinary ability to sense things can make mistakes.

Now two people are dead, and as a portal gatekeeper for the IIA, Mia needs to find Dr. Bleeker before he hurts anyone else. And her boyfriend Regulus, an Agent for the IIA, carries secrets of his own. Between learning about weaponry, finding the perfect dress for the winter formal, and catching bad guys, who has time to fit in?

Review

Whisper of Memory continues where The Waiting Booth left off. If you haven't read The Waiting Booth yet, I recommend that you do not read any further. I don't want to spoil anything for you.

Previously we learned that Mia's mother was an IIA agent and that she is now helping Dr. Bleeker despite the fact that he is killing people for his experiments. And when Mia first meets her mother again after so many years -- her mother took off when she was just a toddler -- Nancy pulls a gun on her. Needless to say, Mia does not have warm and fuzzy feelings towards the mother that abandoned her. On top of all of that, her missing brother is sending her vague messages that only confuse her more and make her ask more questions for which no one has any answers. Oh yeah, and according to the IIA, dating among IIA members is forbidden.

I was very much looking forward to reading this sequel to The Waiting Booth. I enjoy the mystery of the story and the budding relationship between Mia and Regulus. Not to mention, Arizona is such a fun character who has a crush on Mia's best friend Emily. And let's not forget Austin, who is in love with Mia, but he's one of her best friends, and she thinks of him more like a brother. So with Whisper of Memory there is the continued mystery surrounding Mia's brother Pete and the gangs attempts to find Dr. Bleeker and learn as much information as they can regarding Pete.

OK, for some reason I didn't enjoy this story as much as the first one. I still liked it though, don't get me wrong, but it seemed kind of slow going at times, and I just didn't feel as if the whole winter formal part was necessary. I suppose that sort of thing is normal for a teenage girl in her senior year of high school, and although there wasn't a significant portion of the story dedicated to it, I feel it sidetracked the story a bit. Maybe that's just me being antsy to find out what's going on.

There is something major that happens to Regulus that I pretty much expected, though I didn't want it to happen, and I'm very curious to see how that affects his relationship with Mia in the long run. And I'm still itching to know what is really going on with Mia's mother and Dr. Bleeker and what exactly Pete is up to. So I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.

** I received a copy of The Waiting Booth for review as part of the Knights of the Round Table group on Goodreads.**

Find Brinda Berry Online
Website | Blog | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter

BTS Presents: Santa's Little Helper Scavenger Hunt!

2012-12-04T00:01:00.000-05:00

Intro:
BTS Tours and Freya’s Bower are proud to present the Santa’s Little Helper Scavenger Hunt. 32 blogs have linked together to allow you to hunt for 32 different words that will be hidden in each post, so at the end of the hunt you will have 32 answers to plug into the rafflecopter. Please DO NOT leave your answers in the comment section. We want this to be fun for everyone, and not take the challenge out of the game. So this is how it works. All the blogs listed below will post their game piece on their allotted date. You are looking for one word (related to Christmas or Sex) to plug into the rafflecopter as your answer. For Example: If you are on Close Encounters with the Night Kind, and find your word (clues will be provided for you in the banner) you log into the rafflecopter form and place your answer in the box marked Close Encounters of the Night Kind. Follow along the entire Scavenger Hunt and collect all 32 clues. We will be drawing for 4 $25 dollar Gift Certificates to Freya’s Bower. Happy Hunting!!!

CLUE:

Book Spotlight

Title: Waking The Witch

Author: Lisa Whitefern

Publisher: Wild Child Publishing

Length: Novella
Sub-Genres: Historical/ Paranormal

Blurb:

From inside the stunning opal necklace, a haunting voice whispered, "Make love to him, Faith. Do it now!"

Faith Abbot is a good Puritan woman, but the magic inside an opal necklace begins to torment her with lustful thoughts.

For years her heart and body have craved handsome James Parris, a man twelve years her junior, a man she thinks should be courting women his own age. But now the magic of a ghost trapped in a jewel breaks down all her inhibitions.

When she and James surrender to the fierce erotic tension that pulses between them, her heart fills with joy.

But who is the angry female ghost dwelling within the necklace, wanting revenge?

And when Faith is accused of performing witchcraft in Salem Village, can James's love save her from the hangman's noose?

Excerpts:

“Let’s see where else the devil’s kissed her,” whispered Robert. He slid his hand between her legs. She spat at him, and he grabbed both her wrists. He dropped her torn shift back over her head. “Fetch the rope from my saddle.”

Mary Warren rushed to do his bidding. Tears of shame burned in Faith’s eyes. Robert bound her hands tightly in front of her with coarse rope.

“Can the witch not have a trial?” asked Grace Way. “Sarah Good is getting a trial.”

“There is no time for it now,” said Putnam, a malicious glint in his eye. “’Tis All Hallows’ Eve. ’Tis best we deal with the witch now, for when darkness hits the sky, Satan and his other minions will swoop down to help their own.”

Putnam picked her up and set her on the lumpy pillion of his horse. A scream caught in her throat, and cold sweat trickled down the back of her neck. Then Putnam mounted the horse. He set the horse off at a fast trot, and the crowd cheered. Turning her head, Faith saw the rest of the crowd mounting their own horses.

“Where are you taking me?” she shouted over the rhythmic sound of hooves on the dirt road.

“Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live. The witch Jezebel was thrown from the tower, and horses trampled her until she was a bloody pulp. You’re fate won’t be quite as bad.” The sneer in his voice made him sound almost amused. “And then, pretty one, I will have the land your husband owed me long ago. He gave me your daughters as servants, but they are shiftless, cold girls who deny me bedroom duties and please me not at all.”

Buy Links:

Freya 's Bower Site

About the Author:

Since she came of age Lisa Whitefern has embarrassed people by talking about sex, now she writes the hottest of erotic romance and erotica.

Lisa was a finalist in the Romance Divas Best First Page Contest and the Spacecoast Authors of Romance Launching A Star Contest. Her novella Waking the Witch also placed third in the Magnolia 12th Annual Dixie State Contest.

Lisa has a Masters in English Literature with honors.

Although born in New York City to American parents Lisa has lived most of her life in New Zealand, where she now lives with her husband and two gorgeous sons.

Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Schedule

Review: Kiss of the Butterfly by James Lyon

2012-12-03T19:31:00.000-05:00

Title: Kiss of the Butterfly
Author: James Lyon
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Publisher: James Lyon (July 22, 2012)
Get it: Amazon

Synopsis
"The smell of blood is in the air, I sense it even now. People thirst for it; the entire country is mad with desire for it. And now we are going to war with our brothers because they look like us, and because we can smell our blood coursing through their veins...” A mysterious letter starts a university student on a journey into the war-torn lands of rapidly disintegrating Yugoslavia. Naively trusting his enigmatic professor, the student unwittingly descends into a dystopian crucible of decay, destruction, passion, death, romance, lust, immorality, genocide, and forbidden knowledge promising immortality. As the journey grows ever more perilous, he realizes he must confront an ancient evil that has been once again loosed upon the earth: from medieval Bosnia to enlightenment-era Vienna, from the bright beaches of modern-day Southern California to the exotically dark cityscapes of Budapest and Belgrade, and horrors of Bosnia.

Vampires have formed an integral part of Balkan folklore for over a thousand years. "Kiss" represents a radical departure from popular vampire legend, based as it is on genuine Balkan folklore from as far back as the 14th century, not on pop culture or fantasy. "Kiss of the Butterfly" offers up the real, horrible creatures that existed long before Dracula and places them within a modern spectrum.

Review

The story revolves around Steven, a university student who with the help of Professor Slatina, receives a scholarship from the Balkan Ethnography Trust so that he can get inside of war-torn Yugoslavia to finish his research for his dissertation. Professor Slatina, however, has Steven researching vampire lore, but there is more to it than what Professor Slatina is willing to admit to Steven. Steven's research not only puts himself but other people in danger. The government doesn't want him uncovering certain truths.

I have to admit that I dreaded writing this review. It's not that I hated the book, not at all, but it was very difficult for me to get into the story. I'd say I was probably half way through the book before it really became interesting. Under normal circumstances, I probably would have given up on trying to read it, if I hadn't agreed to review it.

The factual information that was woven into the story, I enjoyed that to some extent. For some reason though, I felt like I was reading a history book. There are a lot of hard to pronounce names (though granted, there was a small guide at the front of the book that helped with that) and a lot of historical dates offered up. I had a hard time following along at time.

Now, as I've said before, I'm no expert on punctuation and such, but I've read quite a lot in the last few years to feel as though there were quite a few errors in this book. Part of the reason I felt it was hard to get through the book was because of the way it was written. For example, instead of a character's unspoken thoughts being italicized, they had quotes around them as if they were spoken out loud. Occasionally there was a change in scene but no obvious break to let the reader know of the change, which would throw me off. And although this may seem odd to mention, colons were used way more in this book than I've ever seen used in one book before, and I don't believe it was always used correctly.

Having said all that, I do feel that Mr. Lyon has a great way with words. For me though, I suppose that there was just too much, and it interrupted the flow of the story. But I was rather fascinated by the vampire lore, and I really enjoyed the cast of characters that Steven met along the way.

** I received a ebook copy of Kiss of the Butterfly in exchange for a review.**

Find James Lyon Online
Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter

My Cover Art Design: Apocalypse

2012-10-31T13:32:00.001-04:00

Cynthia Shepp held a cover design contest on Facebook. As usual, I wanted to give it a try. The only thing was, the theme was apocalypse, and I really didn't know if I could make something that represented that well enough. For this particular challenge, I think it turned out OK. What do you think? Personally I know it could be better, but I was at a loss for what else to do to improve it.

Voting opened today and will run until Sunday, November 4, at 10 pm CST. Please consider heading over and placing your vote. I am NOT asking you to vote for mine though. I'm asking you to vote for your favorite! To vote, visit Cynthia Shepp's blog. Thanks!

UPDATE: Voting is now over.

CREDITS
Window by Photos Public Domain
Girl by african_fi
Bird by Ariaocstock
Foliage by Ariaocstock
Stairwell by Ariaocstock

Release Day Shout Out: Wish, The Awakening by Laura Eno

2012-10-22T00:01:00.000-04:00

Once again I'm happy to give a shout out to one of Laura Eno's books, Wish, The Awakening which releases today! If you are so inclined, feel free to share this on Facebook, Twitter, etc. :) I know Laura would appreciate it!

Wish, The Awakening – YA dark fantasy

Blurb:

Most residents of Pine Hill shy away from seventeen-year-old Lelah without knowing why. It's the Djinn magic surging through her blood. She lives in a world where wishes are really curses, dark power meant to twist and deceive in unimaginable ways. When a fit of temper exposes Lelah for what she really is, she must flee to a sanctuary only whispered about, before her family is exposed and enslaved by their ancient enemy. What she discovers is a treacherous path filled with power, lies, and betrayal – a path that's destined to ensnare her and destroy a civilization.

Links:
AmazonUS
AmazonUK
Nook
Smashwords
Print

About the Author

Laura Eno lives in Florida with a very tolerant husband, three skulking cats and two absurdly happy dogs. After spending years immersed in college but never figuring out what she wanted to be when she grew up, she now writes novels late at night with the help of muses from the underworld. And, no, she still hasn't grown up but that's okay.

Find Laura Eno Online
Website | Blog | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter

Wicked and Wild Scavenger Hunt

2012-10-16T00:01:00.000-04:00

Intro:
BTS Tours and Wild Child Publishing are proud to present the Wicked and Wild Halloween Scavenger Hunt. 37 blogs have linked together to allow you to hunt for 37 different words that will be hidden in each post, so at the end of the hunt you will have 37 answers to plug into the rafflecopter. Please DO NOT leave your answers in the comment section. We want this to be fun for everyone, and not take the challenge out of the game. So this is how it works. All the blogs listed below will post their game piece on their allotted date. You are looking for one word (related to Halloween) to plug into the rafflecopter as your answer. For Example: If you are on Close Encounters with the Night Kind, and find your word (clues will be provided for you in the banner) you log into the rafflecopter form and place your answer in the box marked Close Encounters of the Night Kind. Follow along the entire Scavenger Hunt and collect all 37 clues. We will be drawing for 4 $25 dollar Gift Certificates to Wild Child Publishing. Happy Hunting!!!

Title: Hagitha’s Chronicles
Author: Kelly Madden
Publisher: Wild Child Publishing
Length: Novel
Sub-Genres: Paranormal

BLURB:
Hagitha is a just your ordinary witch in an ordinary coven. Nothing much special happens—in fact, things are so mundane that Hagitha spends most of her time cobweb gathering and wasting way too much energy on witchy salves and beauty spells. Until one day, when a strange applicant to the coven challenges her in a way she had never imagined, and Hagitha realizes perhaps her life is not so boring after all. Hagitha sets up shop as a detective, and soon discovers that with vampires, trolls, dragons, ghosts and more, she may have more business than she can handle!

The trees gradually became thinner, and Hagitha watched as Wytheria reached the edge of an open glade. The odd woman checked carefully in all directions and walked quickly across the moon-washed glade towards a broad rock face. Hagitha hovered at the edge of the meadow and wondered where Wytheria would go, as the sheer wall of stone would have been impossible to scale. Very curious now, she leaned carefully around the tree she was hiding behind and almost yelped in surprise as Wytheria raised her arms and loudly recited what sounded like a chant:

Dogs and bunnies, squirrels and cats
Toads and frogs and rats and bats
Things we like to smash and eat
But them Witches got us beat

Says the critters help them spell
Keeps them all won’t even sell
Thinks we’re dumb, but we is smart
Dress up like a Witchy tart

Wytheria finished the chant with a loud snorting chuckle. The wall started to shimmer, and a wide doorway appeared. Hagitha almost cried out in horror as Wytheria shrugged off her skin as easily as a socialite discarding an evening wrap, exposing the large, green, wart-covered body of a Forest Troll.

Buy Link:

Hagitha's Chronicles on Amazon

About The Author
Kelly Madden lives with a ferocious Ocicat and her husband who is also a writer, but not ferocious. She lives on the edge of a lake which is as close to beach living as the Midwest gets. She enjoys painting, dancing, and hiking when she isn’t writing. Kelly has over twenty short stories published in various genres and publications, has been included in four anthologies, and has six published novels. A complete list of published works can be found on her website.
http://www.wishingstar.us/worldsofkellymadden/

GIVEAWAY

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Schedule:

October 1 - Awesomesauce Book Club , Guilty Indulgence
October 2 - Reading Between the Lines , Beauty In Ruins
October 3 - Riverina Romantics
October 4 - Book Swagger
October 5 - Reading and Writing Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance
October 6 - Book Devotee Reviews
October 8 - Love is a Many Flavored Thing
October 9 - House Millar
October 10 - Literal Addiction
October 11 - S.J. Maylee
October 12 - Fictional Candy
October 13 - Sweet Southern Home
October 14 - Laurie's Non-Paranormal Thoughts and Reviews
October 15 - Salacious Reads
October 16 - For the Love of Reading Reviews , Novelly Nice
October 17 - Pink Skulls Book Reviews
October 18 - Full Moon Bites
October 19 - The Bunny's Review
October 20 - Romance Book Club . Com
October 21 - The Jeep Diva
October 22 - Nette's Bookshelf Reviews
October 23 - Beagle Book Space , Pippa Jay…
October 24 - All She Wants and More
October 25 - Ex Libris
October 26 - Close Encounters with the Night Kind
October 27 - Herding Cats and Burning Soup
October 28 - Noracast
October 29 - TBR
October 30 - Reader's Confession , Naughty Editions
October 31 - Speculative Friction , Worlds of Escapism

Review: Blaze by Joan Swan

2012-10-14T19:35:00.000-04:00

Title: Blaze
Author: Joan Swan
Genre: Paranormal Romantic Suspense
Publisher: Brava (Sept. 25, 2012)
Get it: Amazon | B&N | The Book Depository

Synopsis
The hotter they come, the harder they fall…

With a man like him, every mission becomes personal…
Ever since FBI agent Keira O’Shay started tracking a young boy named Mateo, she’s felt a connection even her empathic abilities can’t explain. She needs to save Mateo from the cult leader holding him hostage. Nothing can interfere with that—not even the reappearance of Luke Ransom, the hot-as-hell fire captain she’s regretted walking out on for three long years.

Losing Keira left Luke vulnerable—in every way. When they were together, the powers each possesses were mysteriously enhanced. But it’s the sexy, surprising woman beneath the tough exterior that Luke’s really missed. Even if she betrayed him utterly. And even if agreeing to help her uncover a government conspiracy means watching his life and his heart go up in flames again…

Review

Keira O'Shay is a former firefighter who is now one of the best shooters the FBI has. For at least a year now, Keira has been trying to rescue a little boy that she can't explain why she's so drawn to. Rescuing Mateo is Keira's top priority.

When Keira's former lover is assigned to help her on the mission, though neither new the other was there, things get a little tense. Luke still loves Keira but is hurt by her decision to leave him. What hurts Luke even more is Keira's love for the child she knows nothing about, especially when the idea of having children was one of the things that drove a wedge between her and Luke. But Keira's childhood defined who she is today, and it's something she's not shared with Luke.

Blaze (Phoenix Rising book 2) is actually the first book by Joan Swan that I've had the pleasure of reading. I really enjoyed the story. There seemed to be a lot of attention to detail in terms of the military actions, medical stuff, and the storytelling itself. And I felt that the romance aspect was well done. Of course, being the romance junkie that I am, I got a bit frustrated with Keira at times. I won't say why, of course! For the most part, I did understand the reasoning behind her actions.

This book is rather action packed and suspenseful with a nice slice of sexual tension between Luke and Keira. There is even a bit of mystery thrown in, which I imagine will lead nicely into the next book in the Phoenix Rising series. I was fascinated by the special abilities that Luke, Keira and their former firefighting team have because of a prior exposure to chemicals at a warehouse explosion. Their abilities help them greatly at times and gave the story its paranormal aspect. And although Mateo can only speak Greek, I loved his interaction with Keira and Luke. He's such a sweetheart. :)

Now, as I am no expert on proper sentence structure and such, I can't be sure that what I felt was wrong is in fact wrong, but one thing that seemed incorrect to me as I was reading was how it seemed as though there were incomplete sentences at times. For me, in those instances, it disrupted the flow of the story. If I would go back and combine what I thought was the incomplete sentence with the one before it, it flowed better. But seriously, other than that, I loved reading Blaze. I'm definitely going to have to get Fever so that I can get caught up with this series.

** I received a copy of Blaze from the author in exchange for a review.**

Find Joan Swan Online
Website | Blog | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter

Fiction Frolic for All Hallow's Read

2012-10-13T00:01:00.000-04:00

Help Raise 1,000 books for charity and enter to win $200, signed books and swag!

I am excited to share about an ambitious blog tour—Fiction Frolic for All Hallow's Read—where ten authors from several genres are working hard to raise 1,000 books in three weeks for Books for America.

From October 1st to 19th, donate a new book (or books!) and earn extra bonus points in a huge giveaway that these authors are hosting.

Two winners will each receive the following PRIZES!

$100 Amazon G.C.
5 signed books from the authors hosting the event
A swag bag
Plus—in honor of All Hallow's read, gift a signed copy of one of our books to a friend!

With a total of $200, 12 signed books (including the gifted books) and major swag, what better way is there to raise books for charity and celebrate All Hallow's Read?

Each author participating is also donating signed copies of their books to Books for America, an awesome charity that is officially sponsoring their event and excited to be involved with All Hallow's Read. In 2011, Books for America donated more than $800,000 worth of books and materials to DC area schools, shelters and dozens of other educational programs and organizations.

The authors are blogging throughout the event at The Fiction Frolic Blog.

10/1-5 Read about how books shaped their love for reading and writing.

10/8-12 Read their scariest, funniest or craziest Halloween experiences, or learn about their favorite Halloween themed book or movie, or favorite work of "dark" literature.

10/15-19 Enjoy some flash fiction, short stories and novel excerpts.

So donate, share, and look for daily ways to enter to win. Donate to charity for bonus points!

This event is sponsored by:
Eleanor T Beaty, author of the YA paranormal Veiled Mist
Brewin' author of the supernatural horror, The Dark Horde
Andy Gavin, author of the fantasy horror, The Darkening Dream
Laxmi Hariharan, author of the YA fantasy, The Destiny of Shaitan
Kimberly Kinrade, author of the YA paranormal thriller/romances, Forbidden Mind & Forbidden Fire
Richard Long, author of the supernatural thriller/horror, The Book of Paul
M.C. Mars, author of the mind-bending novel, Burner
Melissa McPhail, author of epic fantasy Cephrael's Hand
Sheryl Steines, author of She Wulf & Days of First Sun
Pavarti K Tyler, author of the Lit Fic Shadow on the Wall and the erotic horror Consumed by Love

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Blog Tour - Review: Metamorphosis by Devon Ashley

2012-10-05T00:01:00.000-04:00

I'm thrilled to participate in the Metamorphosis (book 2 of The Immortal Archives series) blog tour. I previously participated in the Ordained (book 1) blog tour as well, so I was really excited to read and review Metamorphosis. There is a great giveaway associated with this tour, so if you haven't entered yet, feel free to do so at the end of this post. Good luck!

Since Metamorphosis is book 2, I want to warn that there will likely be spoilers for Ordained in my review.

Title: Metamorphosis
Author: Devon Ashley
Genre: YA Paranormal, Urban Fantasy
Publisher: Devon Ashley (Nov 15, 2011 )
Get it: Amazon | B&N | Smashwords

Synopsis
Change is not always a good thing...

Some survived the battle – but not without a price. As one heart starts up again, another dies down. The pure vampires learn their immortality isn't as strong as they'd thought – the status of their hearts determines their vulnerability. And when the truth gets out, a betrayal by one of their own will cost more lives.

Review

When we last saw Emily, she had a decision to make. She had been accidentally exposed to Abby's blood which infected her with the vampire virus; however, because it was only a very small amount, it won't turn her into a vampire, it will kill her. So her choice is to either allow Abby to turn her into a pure vampire or die. Not really much of a choice, is it?

Metamorphosis starts off shortly after where Ordained ended. Emily is transitioning into a vampire and learning about herself all over again. With the help of Abby and Noel's training, she's slowly but surely familiarizing herself with her new abilities ... some of which even Abby and Noel didn't expect her to have.

For pure vampires, injuries and illnesses cause their hearts to start beating again until they have healed. So for Emily, it took a little while after being turned for her heart to stop beating, but for Abby, having been seriously injured at the end of Ordained, her heart is still beating despite her physical injuries having healed, causing Noel concern.

Now as much as I would like to say more regarding the storyline, I can't. Devon Ashley takes you on a crazy ride with this book. There are some surprises throughout this book and one mega serious betrayal that I never saw coming and which I honestly became emotional over. Truth be told, I wanted to yell at Devon and say, "How could you?". You also learn more about Abby's past, her family that is important. Having read Metamorphosis, I understand why the synopsis of the book is so vague. You can't go into too much detail without spoiling some of the surprises and shocking revelations.

While I very much enjoyed this book, I felt as if the beginning was a tad slow. But seriously, once it gets going ... hang on. As I've said, there are a number of surprises plus there are things that are revealed that will surely be important in the next book, and I'm so looking forward to finding out what happens next!

** I received a ecopy of Metamorphosis from the author in exchange for a review.**

Find Devon Ashley Online
Blog | Goodreads | Facebook

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Cover Reveal: The Ballad of Aramei by J.A. Redmerski

2012-10-03T00:01:00.000-04:00

Blurb:

Everything about Adria Dawson’s life has changed in unimaginable ways: the shattering betrayal of her mother, the fight for her life and sanity…the loss of her humanity. But now Adria must face the ultimate challenge and risk not only her life, but the lives of everyone she loves at the wrathful hands of Isaac Mayfair’s father.

Determined to help unravel a mysterious message deeply rooted in an unhinged mind, Adria becomes obsessed with traveling into Aramei’s turbulent past to see the truth of how the relationships and betrayals between the Mayfair and Vargas bloodlines were formed.

Meanwhile, Adria and the Mayfairs are doing everything they can to smoke out and trap the Praverian traitor. A trip to Providence uncovers not only an old family line who are enemies of the Praverians, but also raises questions about the Praverian’s true agenda.

But the traitor will be caught. People will die. And Adria’s destiny to be the cause of a war will come to pass. But what could a kind and simple girl like Adria Dawson ever do that could be considered an act of war? The landscape of the werewolf world will be forever changed in the climactic conclusion to The Darkwoods Trilogy.

--------------------------

In book one, The Mayfair Moon, you only get a brief glimpse of Aramei, so I'm looking forward to learning more about her story. I'm hoping to have my reviews of The Mayfair Moon and Kindred up soon. I have a feeling this one in particular is going to make me cry. :)

Also check out the first two books in the Darkwoods Trilogy.

J.A. Redmerski: Website

Blog Tour - Guest Post: Patricia K. McCarthy

2012-10-02T00:01:00.000-04:00

Today I have for you a guest post by The Crimson Crimes author Patricia K. McCarthy in which she answers the following questions!

Have you received any backlash about the controversial material in the book? How did you respond?

The provocative content of my fifth novel, The Crimson Crimes, so freaked out one family member that we are no longer speaking to one another. Their intense reaction caught me off guard and I was unprepared at the time it happened. I immediately reached out to my editor and sought his support. One could teach students how to deal with backlash in English Literature and other writing programs; however, you cannot gauge the reaction of how your fiction will be received until it has actually been released into the public. Friends, family, acquaintances and strangers can sometimes confuse fiction with reality or rather a character’s image can become mixed-up with reality. Some of my readers have commented that I must have an amazing sex life, given that I write explicit sex. While I’m not one to dissuade people from holding onto their illusions, I do not want to subject my personal life to their scrutiny. I refrain from inserting myself into my fiction and refuse to admit the truth to anyone. I have been told that my work is ribald and unsuitably graphic and conversely have also been applauded for its honesty. In the end, as a writer you live with your words. A writer should only ever write for themselves and not for their audience. As Shakespeare eloquently said, ‘To thy own self be true’. You’ll be setting yourself up for failure if you write to please someone. But be prepared to defend your turf and don’t be surprised if your writing shocks people. One woman, after having read my first Crimson novel declared that I needed psychological counseling, to which I sarcastically retorted, “Of course I could benefit from therapy, that’s why I write vampire erotica.” The only warning I can give for an aspiring writer is: When your fiction hits a nerve, you won’t have time to run for cover.

Author Bio:
Patricia K. McCarthy lives and writes in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Her Crimson vampires series has received extensive media coverage in national and local newspapers, as well as on radio and television. For details, visit her website.

Find Patricia K. McCarthy Online
Website | Blog | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter

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The Crimson Crimes Tour Schedule

Oct. 1: Novelly Nice: Review
Oct. 2: Novelly Nice: Guest Post
Oct. 3:
Oct. 4: Books and Other Spells: Guest Post
Oct. 6: Books and Other Spells: Character Interview
Oct. 7:
Oct. 8: Fall Into Books: Guest Post
Oct. 9: Book Fever: Character Interview
Oct. 10: Life is not Beautiful Without Books: Guest Post
Oct. 11: Shall Write: Review
Oct. 12: Book Nerd: Review
Oct. 13: Book Nerd: Character Interview
Oct. 14: Artistically Geeky: Review
Oct. 15: Joie de Lire: Review
Oct. 16: Joie de Lire: Character Interview
Oct. 17: Joie de Lire: Interview
Oct. 18:
Oct. 19: Romancing the Dark Side: Review
Oct. 20: Romancing the Dark Side: Character Interview
Oct. 21:
Oct. 22: Library Mosaic: Guest Post
Oct. 23: Library Mosaic: Interview
Oct. 24:
Oct. 25: Kathy’s Savings: Review
Oct. 26:
Oct. 27: Shall Write: Guest Post
Oct. 28: Shall Write: Interview
Oct. 29:
Oct. 30: Donna’s Blog Home: Guest Post
Oct. 31: Donna’s Blog Home: Interview

Nov. 1: Sapphyria’s Steamy Book Reviews: Review
Nov. 2: Sapphyria’s Steamy Book Reviews: Guest Post

Blog Tour - Review: The Crimson Crimes by Patricia K. McCarthy

2012-10-01T00:01:00.000-04:00

You probably know me well enough now to know that I love vampire novels, so when I was asked if I would be interested in participating in The Crimson Crimes tour, I was happy to! The Crimson Crimes is part of a series of vampire books that I'd not heard of before. Below is my review of the book, and tomorrow I'll have a guest post by Patricia K. McCarthy for you. There is also a giveaway associated with this tour, so be sure to enter to win at the bottom of this post!

Title: The Crimson Crimes
Author: Patricia K. McCarthy
Genre: Vampire Erotic Fiction
Publisher: PKM Publications (Jun 29, 2012)
Get it: www.patriciakmccarthy.com

NOTE: Book suited for mature readers, 18+, due to sexual situations and language.

Synopsis
It’s the dead of night in the dead of winter, and bodies have been found, stacked ceiling-high, in a hillside cave in Ottawa’s Strathcona Park; necks pierced, blood drained – the usual. The city is gripped by a dusk-till-dawn curfew. The press, police and public have whipped each other into a glorious panic over someone or something called the “Vampire Undertaker.” Well, when did a silly curfew ever shut down the kitchen party at the Crimson house? Bring beer, bring smokes, but please bring yourself to meet The Vampires (there are at least four of them) and their quirky human pals. We can take turns feeding the baby vampire, stalling the cops when they come knocking, and tripping out on that time-dream machine up in the bedroom. You’ve got to love people who know how to make their own fun! You’ll never know where Patricia K McCarthy’s “Crimson” stories will take you or guess what’s going to happen next, not that you’ll be complaining! Oh, and of course this novel is well-seasoned with smutty bits – every good plot deserves pepper.

Review

Samuel Crimson is a hybrid vampire (half human, half vampire). His father Sir William Hennessy, the only vampire in existance, wanted to create a new hybrid race of vampires by biting pregnant women in their 9th month of pregnancy which is how Samuel came to be what he is. Prior to Sir William's death, he changed Samuel's wife Magdalene into a vampire. Now Magdalene is the one true vampire in existence, thus making her the supreme ruler.

When Sir William's hiding place for his victims becomes compromised, Samuel along with Magdalene and their closest friends Kevin and Derek Coffey and David Three Rats set out to remove and bury the bodies before they are discovered by police. Unfortunately, things don't go as expected, putting them in more danger. Also, Cain, Samuel's half-brother, is out to exact revenge against Samuel for the death of their half-brother Raven since Samuel is the one that killed him.

When I read up on this book prior to signing up with the tour, the information that I found stated that the book, although book five in the series, can be read as a standalone novel. Maybe it's because I've yet to read the first four books, but I don't agree with that. It really felt to me as if it was a continuation, though you are given some pertinent information to catch you up to speed with what is going on at the moment. Plus, by the end of the book there is no resolution to any of the things going on in the book. My guess is that some or all will be resolved in the next book.

Now, that doesn't mean I didn't enjoy the book. I've read a lot of vampire related stories since becoming a fan of reading. I love when authors come up with their own take on vampires. I would be bored if all vampires in every book ever written were all the same. So I thought it interesting that there seemed to be only one true vampire in existence at a time in this book. Sure, there are hybrids but they don't exist in the same way that a true vampire does. In The Crimson Crimes, a true vampire needs blood to survive, they don't sleep ... ever, and they can't be captured on film. However, that is not the case with a hybrid. Hybrid's can live without blood but not food, they sleep, and they can be photographed. For Magdalene, not being able to sleep keeps her from experiencing the dreaming stones which allows the user to travel through time within their dreams and see past or future events.

At the beginning of the book the author warns about strong language and rudeness, etc. Had I not read that in advance, I might have been a bit shocked by some of the language at first, but none of that bothered me. About the only thing that annoyed me a bit was when it felt like I was reading driving instructions. I wouldn't have minded if it only happened once, but it seemed like any time the characters were on the road or discussing where they were going and how they were going to get there, it seemed to consist of detailed instructions on how to get from one point to another.

I do feel the book is well written and very interesting. I am curious about the previous books and of course the next one because I would very much like to know how the situations in The Crimson Crimes play out.

**I received a copy of The Crimson Crimes from the author in exchange for a review.**

My Cover Art Design: Tiger's Dream

2012-09-29T03:01:00.000-04:00

UPDATE (10/1): Just found out that my cover was chosen as the runner-up winner in the cover design contest. So excited about that. :D

Making the Grade hosted a contest to design cover art for Colleen Houck's upcoming final book in the The Tiger Saga, Tiger's Dream. I was so excited, I had to have a go at it. The deadline for entries was yesterday so I figured it would be okay to post mine now. Winners will be announced by Oct.1. Keeping my fingers crossed. :)

Now in case you haven't seen the awesome covers for the first four books in the series, I've included them here:

I have to admit, I've not read this series yet but I really want to. That being said, I didn't know much about the stories, especially the last book. I do know that one of the main characters is a girl named Kelsey. So for my entry, I wanted to include a girl in the cover though she's not the focus.

So anyway, here is my attempt at making a cover for Tiger's Dream. The henna border art and title was provided for use if we wanted to use it although it wasn't required.

Credits
Tiger Stock by madmatah
Girl Stock by bugidifino
Dragon Brushes by DusterAmaranth
Splatter Brushes by Colby17
Oriental Foliage Brushes by Colby17
Texture by runswithvamps

I'm pretty happy with how this turned out. There have been times that I've attempted something like this that I wasn't entirely happy with the outcome.

Promised Land Trailer

2012-09-28T15:24:00.000-04:00

Some of you might remember that earlier this year I worked as an extra in the movie Promised Land which was filmed very close to were I live. Well, recently the trailer for the movie was released, so I thought I'd post it here.

Also, when I watched the trailer, I spotted myself in it. :) In the screen still below is one of the town hall scenes that was filmed. I'm to the left of the guy with the white cowboy hat on in the front of the bleachers. Matt Damon's back is to the camera in the middle. Hal Holbrook is the one standing up in the bleachers with the beige vest on. Tim Guinee is below the N in the Pioneer sign with his arms crossed. The movie is scheduled for limited release at the end of December and worldwide release in early January.

Also, one of the other movies that I was an extra in, Won't Back Down, premieres today. My sister and I are headed out to see it tonight.

This is the scene from Won't Back Down that I filmed:

Cover Combat: Heart of the Dragon (Atlantis #1)

2012-09-24T00:01:00.000-04:00

This weeks cover combat is Heart of the Dragon, book one in Gena Showalter's Atlantis series.

Synopsis
Grace Carlyle's world was about to change . . .
Deep in the jungle on the trail of her missing brother, Grace never expected to find a secret world populated by mythological monsters -- nor guarded by a sword-wielding being whose beauty put mortal men to shame.
Darius en Kragin belongs to a race of shape-shifting warriors sworn to guard Atlantis and kill all travelers who stray within its boundaries. Yet when Grace stumbles into his realm, he finds himself tempted to betray his centuries-old vow.
Now their forbidden love will either bring their worlds together -- or tear them both apart.

Okay, time for the covers! Which is your favorite? Why is it your favorite?

Indonesian Cover

Italian Cover

2005 Mass Market Paperback Cover

2010 eBook Cover

Cast your Vote!

If the poll doesn't show correctly, stating which you choose in the comments will be fine! Sorry for the inconvenience!

Do you have a book suggestion for the next Cover Combat? I'd love your suggestions!

Also, if you're an author interested in offering up a copy of your book for a future Cover Combat, please email me. Thank you!

Yes, Personas. Again!

2012-09-19T00:01:00.000-04:00

I know, I know, you're all probably tired of me posting Personas. :) I'm not sure what has gotten into me. I've never made so many in such a short time before, but I suppose I did take a pretty long break at one point. That may explain it.

Books

More Books

Flowers

Farmville

Breaking Dawn part 2

Newsies

Harry Potter

Sparkle

Hunger Games

The Avengers

Animals

Frosted Glass

Pitch Perfect

The Hobbit

Disney Dream Portrait Series

Personas are for use with the Firefox browser and the Thunderbird email client.

Cover Combat: Glass Houses (The Morganville Vampires #1)

2012-09-17T13:42:00.000-04:00

Cover Combat is a weekly meme hosted by Anagha at Book Spark. It's something that I enjoy participating in at her blog and thought I'd give it a go here. Ana usually has a giveaway to go along with it, thanks to the support of various authors offering up copies of their books. Unfortunately, I don't have anything to giveaway but I hope you'll participate just the same.

I am guilty of judging a book by it's cover! I admit it. A nice cover really helps to draw my attention to a book. I don't necessarily let the cover alone decide whether to buy it though, but an appealing cover goes a long way!

For my first cover combat I randomly selected a book that was recommended to me on Goodreads: Glass Houses (The Morganville Vampires #1) by Rachel Caine.

Synopsis
From the author of the popular Weather Warden series comes the debut of an exciting new series set in Morganville, Texas, where you would be well advised to avoid being out after dark.

College freshman Claire Danvers has had enough of her nightmarish dorm situation. When Claire heads off-campus, the imposing old house where she finds a room may not be much better. Her new roommates don't show many signs of life, but they'll have Claire's back when the town's deepest secrets come crawling out, hungry for fresh blood.

Now on to the covers! Which one do you like best and why? Click covers for a larger view then cast your vote in the poll below.

US Cover

French Cover

Spanish Cover

Swedish Cover

Czech Cover

Cast your Vote!

If the poll doesn't show correctly, stating which you choose in the comments will be fine! Sorry for any trouble!

Do you have a book suggestion for the next Cover Combat? Feel free to leave a comment!

Also, if you're an author interested in offering up a copy of your book for a future Cover Combat, please email me. Thank you!

Release Day Blitz: Blood Spirit (Sons of Navarus #3)

2012-09-17T00:01:00.000-04:00

Title: Blood Spirit (Sons of Navarus #3)

Author: Gabrielle Bisset

Sub-Genres: Paranormal, Erotic, Vampire

Get it at: Amazon, B&N

Book Blurb
I am everything you seek. I am vampire.

Blessed with the gift of telepathy, Terek always knows what a woman wants. His gift has afforded him nightly sensual pleasures and exotic treats for centuries, but beneath the surface he yearns for much more.

Ilona can give him what his soul craves, but only if he trusts his heart. One fateful choice made out of desire puts all he cares for in danger. With a civil war and the threat of Archon hunters at every turn, this Son may lose everything if he can't find the balance between heart and mind.

EXCERPT

Tracing the outline of her jaw, he watched the face of this angel and hated having to wake her. But if she didn't take his blood, he'd lose her for certain and for the first time since he'd turned her, he knew he couldn't bear to think of his world without her.
"Ilona," he whispered near her cheek. "Wake. I'm here."
Slowly her eyelids fluttered open and eyes vacant and lost stared back at him. "Terek?"
Her gaze cut like a knife to his heart. She was nearly gone already, her soul slipping into that void between the vampire and human worlds.
"Look into my eyes, Ilona. Look! I need you to stay with me."
Her eyelids drooped as she began to lose consciousness. Terror raced through his body. There was no more time to wait. Fear of losing her controlled his every move, and his fangs exploded into his mouth.
In seconds, he'd pierced his wrist and the blood began to seep from his vein.
Pressing it to her pale lips, he waited in desperation for her to take his blood into her mouth. The blood pooled on her lips, but she made no effort to take it.
"Ilona! Listen to your sire. Drink. Now!" he commanded.
Her eyes opened and turning her head, she whispered, "No. Let me go."
More roughly than he should have, he grabbed her face in his hand and forced her to look at him. "No, I will not lose you! Drink!"
Her voice began to fade and faintly she answered, "Please. I can't live like this."
Terek bent over her and placed a kiss on her lips. The fear that he'd lost her already pressed on his heart and even though he didn't understand why, he was sure when she left him she'd take a piece of his soul with her.
He whispered against her lips one last plea. "Do not take her from me. God, leave her with one who can care for her. I beg of you. Do not take her."
"Why do you want me to live when I don't?" she whispered hoarsely.
"Because there is something special in you as there is in all creatures."
A tiny sigh escaped from between her lips. "You made me this and left me."
Cradling her face in his hands, he said, "I'm sorry. Don't do this. Don't leave me."
"I can't be one of these women. I don't understand this."
Terek kissed her tenderly. "Then don't be. Stay anyway."
Anguish filled her voice. "I woke and I was so hungry. But I don't want food. I hungered for you, but you were gone."
"Take from me everything you hunger for. Take from the one who knows what you need."
Pressing his wrist to her mouth, he fed her soul with his blood. Timid, she stared up at him in fear, but soon her hands held his arm to her lips and she eagerly took what he offered.
Her need for him—for his blood—touched his heart, and a closeness unlike anything he'd experienced in ages came over him. Something about Ilona made him feel like he hadn't felt in almost seven hundred years.
He wanted to save her, to show her the wonders the world offered. If she would allow him, he'd give her that world.
Ilona opened her eyes, and Terek saw that his blood had begun to bring her back from the empty abyss he'd feared and she'd begged for. A tiny smile formed on her lips, making him happy.

About the Author

An avid reader of all types of books, I read my first romance even before I was a teenager. I must have been a very precocious young lady! I still remember the book, if not the title. It was about a Southern man during the years before the Civil War and his illicit affair with one of the slaves of a woman he "frequented". I remember vividly reading the word "manhood" often in the book, and the slave's name was Sukie. Isn't it amazing what the mind can remember?

Fast forward a couple dozen years and I'm a college history instructor. I still love history as much as that romantic young woman did, so I teach it to college students, and the romantic streak has never gone away. Now I get to do things that have to do with my other favorite love: romance novels.

The idea for my first book came to me in a dream. I know that seems almost cliched, but it did. I woke up one morning after having an extremely vivid dream and began to jot things down that I was able to remember. Days later, I had the first pages written and the ideas that I had dreamed about had become the characters in my first book. Those characters are the basis for the first series I've written, The Destined Ones Series, about a people called Aeveren who have lived side by side with humans since almost the beginning of recorded time. The first book in that series, Stolen Destiny, was published in June 2011.

I'm still working on The Destined Ones books, and I look forward to what my imagination has waiting for me next. The second book about Aeveren, Destiny Redeemed, was released in October 2011. I've finished the Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy, three erotic novellas set in Victorian England. The first one, Vampire Dreams, is a paranormal erotic romance. The second novella, another erotic romance but an historical, Love's Master, involves some light BDSM. The third novella, Masquerade, is a straight historical, no kink or paranormal but still a great story.

And now I've begun a new paranormal romance series called The Sons of Navarus series that begins with Blood Avenged. Anyone who read Vampire Dreams will remember Vasilije, Brandon's sire. Blood Avenged is his story. The second book in the series, Blood Betrayed, was released in May 2012, and this fall 2012 the third book, Blood Spirit, will be released. Since there are eight men in the Sons, I've got a good number of delicious heroes to write before it's all over.

After that? Well, I'm in the planning stages of another trilogy, this time maybe novel length. But one thing's for sure: no matter what the story is, it will involve gorgeous, Alpha male heroes, strong heroines, and steamy romance!

Author Links
Website: http://gbisset.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SonsOfNavarusSeries
Twitter: http://twitter.com/gabriellebisset

My Guest Post on Limecello's Blog + Giveaway

2012-09-15T21:08:00.001-04:00

Nearly a year ago Limecello asked me if I would be interested in doing a visitor guest post for her blog. I agreed despite the fact that I had no idea what I would write about. Well, my post went online today. It's basically just me rambling on about how I developed a love a reading and other random stuff. LOL It's nothing truly exciting, that I can promise you. :D However, I'm also offering a giveaway there. One randomly selected person from those who leave comments will get to choose any Kindle book up to $5. If that sounds like something you'd like to win, head on over to Lime's blog to enter. And good luck!

Fabulous Giveaway from Brina Courtney #fabgiveaway

2012-09-15T00:01:00.000-04:00

Brina Courtney is having a giveaway since reaching 1000 followers on Twitter, 500 on Facebook, and 100 on her blog. The giveaway is run by Brina but you can enter here if you like or you can visit Brina's blog to enter. Have fun and good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

September Madness Giveaway @ The Crazy Dream Blog

2012-09-13T12:23:00.001-04:00

Author Devon Ashley is hosting a huge giveaway featuring a variety of author donated books. Have a look at Devon's blog for a complete list of authors participating and the books you could win!

Giveaways are international unless otherwise stated. Good luck!

Review: Blood of the Vines by Ann Cory

2012-09-13T00:01:00.000-04:00

Title: Blood of the Vines
Author: Ann Cory
Genre: Paranormal Erotic Romance
Publisher: Liquid Silver Books (Jun 10, 2012)
Get it: Amazon, B&N

NOTE: Book suited for mature readers, 18+, due to sexual situations and language.

Synopsis
Once a vampire, now a vampire hunter, Regan Fellows walks a fine line with her reputation. Unable to afford her favorite Italian leather outfits, she takes any job she’s offered. When the owner of The Vines, a popular nightclub, asks her to investigate strange occurrences within her establishment, her investigation takes a disturbing turn. As Regan explores the labyrinth of rooms within The Vines, she discovers blood-filled carboys, discarded bodies, and shadows that follow her every move. But they aren’t the only problems.
Sexy bartender, Garrett Reynolds is a bona-fide distraction, and flawless at the art of breaking down her resistance. Even in the midst of tracking a ruthless horde of vampires, Regan can’t deny him. And that attraction puts her in more danger than any job she ever accepted.

Review

Regan Fellows meets with Selena, the owner of a nightclub called The Vines that caters to vampires. Selena wishes to hire Regan, a vampire hunter, to find out where a new supply of blood is coming from. Selena wants her club to provide healthy, filtered blood to her vampire patrons but the higher-ups are doing some shady business. Tainted blood can kill vampires and that's not good for business.

While at the nightclub, Regan meets Garrett Reynolds, the sexy bartender. Despite her professional work ethic, she finds herself often distracted and unable to concentrate when Garrett is around, potentially putting them both in danger.

I found the idea that Regan was once a vampire but went through some sort of painful extraction process in order to make her mortal again very interesting. Though mortal now, she still has some special vampire abilities she's not particularly happy to still have but they do come in handy in her line of work.

The mystery aspect of the story was interesting. I found myself very curious as to what was really going on, and what or who the shadows were that seemed to follow Regan around.

Now, although I thought the idea behind the story and the writing was good, I think that the story would have been better had it been longer. It's novella length, and for me, I felt that the story was rushed. I would have liked to have gotten to know Regan and Garrett more, and the big confrontation with the bad guys was resolved too quickly, too cleanly. I can't be sure exactly but one of the sex scenes may have taken longer than the confrontation. I did feel a build up to the story but was rather disappointed with the way things were resolved. At times I felt a bit lost and confused as well.

Blood of the Vines is book one of a series, and despite everything, I am interested in Regan's next adventure.

** I received a copy of Blood of the Vines for review as part of the Knights of the Round Table group on Goodreads.**

Find Ann Cory Online
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