Tink's Place

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 95

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Mon, 28 May 2012 20:31:00 +0000

Good Afternoon Flash Fictionados!!
I hope everyone is enjoying this warm Memorial Day and remember all those who have been lost.

Since it's Monday.... it's time for....

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge!!

This week's image in one that Carole found for us, and it's lovely!!

It's very Alice-in-Wonderland-esque... don't you think??

I love it!

The artist is: Luz Tapia © and their work can be found @ http://lunalove-hero.deviantart.com/

If you get a chance, check it out!

The rules remain the same 350 words and come back Friday to post your response...

See you then lovelies!!

Ciao!

Curses! A F***ed-Up Fairy Tale by J.A. Kazimer

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Wed, 23 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Publisher: Kensington Books
Pages: 320

(Released: March 1, 2012)

From the Cover:

I'm no hero. In fact, up until a couple of days ago, I was the villain. Kidnapped maidens, scared kids, stole magic tchotchkes—until I got into a little scrape with the union. Now I'm cursed with the worst fate in New Never City—no matter what I do, I gotta be nice.

So when a head-case princess named Asia barges into my apartment and asks me to find out who whacked her stepsister, Cinderella, I have no choice but to help her. And I'm more than willing to head back to her parents' castle and do some investigating if it means I can get into her black leather cat suit. Except this twisted sister has a family nutty enough to send the Biggest Baddest Wolf running for the hills—and a freaky little curse of her own. . .

"More than f***ed-up. Demented. Hilarious." —Mario Acevedo, author of Werewolf Smackdown

RJ (better known as the evil Rumpelstiltskin to all of us fairytale readers) has been thrown out of the Villain's Guild, and cursed to do nothing but good and who turned him in... but his own villainous ex-wife, Natasha and ex-worst friend, the Frog Prince. With nothing better to do and forced by his own cursed existence of the do-gooder, he can't deny Anastasia when she comes to him for help solving the murder of her sister, Cinderella. To do so, they'll have to leave New Never City and return to the kingdom of Maledetto, and Asia's own cursed existence.

RJ is hit with everything from rancorous words to flying fists in his bid to help the gorgeous, and ever expanding, Anastasia... who needs to break her own curse. He's accused of murder, eight times over, and he has to defeat a stupid Prince Charming, his own ex-wife who doesn't have his best interests at heart (until a flaming pink arrow stops her), and a king and queen who are out to do each other in. IF he survives poison toads, near drowning, being blown up, and other attempts on his life (possible attempts on his life, anyway), can he solve the murder of Cinderella? And help Anastasia with her own little problems?

Curses! by J.A. Kazimer is the story of a fairytale that goes way wrong... I mean around the corner, down the street, then squished by a bus wrong... (oh, wait, that was Cinderella, lol). With the murder of Cinderella, Charming must ask the only sister left, Drusilla, the uglier Maledetto sister to become his bride, because, he must (even as his gay other self) be the true king. The only problem with Charming's idea is that he's his own worst enemy. Is he the one who purchased the bluebird, Gretel, who led Cindi to her death? And what about Hansel and Missy (the gingerbread witch), would he use his own bluebird sister, Gretel, to kill Cinderella? There are so many questions, and so little time (and pages) to solve the riddle. There are even questions concerning RJ's pretty princess, Asia. Could she be the one who murdered Cindi? And if she did, why hired RJ to solve a crime where she obviously already knows the culprit? (And also, is she trying to kill RJ?)

Curses! is a rollicking fantasy ride through a demented mind of fairy tale creatures (and their storyteller). It's funny when it's politically incorrect to be. I found myself, at times, laughing out loud, and then it almost the next sentence, cringing while peeking out of my squinted eyes, unbelieving. If you want a wild ride through the Brothers Grimm, then this is the book for you. If you like the bad guy reversing his role to become the good guys (sort of), then give this book a try. It's hilariously funny in a different sort of way. Fairy tales lovers (and I include myself in this category) will want to give this one a try, it's a mangled telling of a favorite, the story of Cinderella and what happens after the fairy godmother. Five out of five fairy (tale) kisses for this reader.

I received my copy of Curses! from the author for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 94

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Tue, 22 May 2012 12:30:00 +0000

Sorry to all my flash fiction buddies... This post didn't go up and I don't know why...odd the post scheduled for today went up... I don't like this new blogger format... But I'm making sure it goes up today! Gosh, feel so random today, lol!!

I haven't even been on my blog because we've had my daughter's boyfriend's nephew at our house... and OMG!! I'm glad I don't have little kids running around anymore, lol! I'm freaking exhausted! And I love the little guy to pieces! He's two and love to watch the Wiggles on my laptop, so much that he picked it up and brought it to me (I had visions of my macbook smashing to the floor...) but back to the blog....

It's time for the Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge!!

This week's image in one I found trolling further the fantasy art pages.. hope everyone enjoys it!!

Hope it sparks some imaginations!!

The rules remain the same, 350 words (or there about) and come back Friday to post a response.... and have a great time!

Have a great week and weekend everyone! (it's going to be 100 degrees here this weekend....I'll be trying to stay cool...)

Ciao!

The Curse of Gremdon by Ciara Knight

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Wed, 16 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Publisher: Crescent Moon Press
Pages: 302

(Released: January 2, 2012)

From the Cover:

In a world where marriage is forbidden, sex is only granted to male warriors, and the outer realm is full of murderous creatures, Arianna fights to protect the life of her only living relative, her brother.

Tardon, an elite warrior, is granted anything he desires by the Elders, but finds little joy in the voluptuous women presented to him. Born for the bloodlust found only in battle, complicated emotions emerge when he discovers his equal in the alluring warrior, Arianna.

Charged by the Elders with saving the castle from attack, Tardon and Arianna risk the curse when they traverse the vast outer realm to retrieve serum from the Tree of Life. If successful, the Elders have promised Tardon the right to marry and Arianna the cure for her brother's death fever. Will their love carry them through or will the discovery of a great deception be their ultimate demise?

With the death of her parents, and the loss of her sister to the curse, Arianna becomes the sole provider for her and her brother, Marcus. She is forced by circumstance to become the only thing that will garner her the respect and wealth needed for them to survive, she becomes the first female warrior. But, she has to work harder, train with greater zeal, and be twice as good for the Elders to grant her entrance into the elite warrior status. She'll never be allowed to marry, never to know a man. It is forbidden.

Tardon has been an elite warrior, one of the best, the strongest, the bloodthirstiest for many years. It becomes his responsibility to train Arianna, then to provide the test for the Elders to either pass or fail the first female warrior. But, could his judgement be skewed? Is she really worthy to become an elite warrior? The Elders have little use for the female warrior. But, when the cursed breach the walls of the castle, she is called upon with the others to save their kingdom.

Then, Marcus falls ill, he's been in the lower recesses of the castle, helping the sick and poor. Arianna needs a healer, but healers answer to the Elders. She'll need Tardon's help if she's going to save her brother. But, at what cost? Her love for Tardon grows, but when it's Arianna who is stricken, it's all Tardon can do to keep himself from her. But, there love will only denied for so long. Will their love cost both of them their lives?

The Curse of Gremdon by Ciara Knight is a high fantasy romance, paranormal in that the Elders aren't what they appear to be and neither are the cursed. It's storyline is set in a repressed society, but it's the repression that helps the Elders control those who live within the walls of the realm. At first, it was hard to be sympathetic to the hero's plight and there's the unrequited love for both Tardon and Arianna. Then, as you get to know him, you discover he has more depth and more heart. But, it really comes back to the repression of Arianna, even as the mighty warrior, her life is so limited. To be with a man could bring certain death, though the male warriors are offered women as a means of appeasement, to keep their needs in check, a double standard of the worse kind. It's not until the two escape the confines of the walls that they grow and become the true hero and heroine this story needs.

The Curse of Gremdon is dichotomy. The women are separate and not equal to the men. It's the an almost polar opposite of our society (I say almost, because of the recent rhetoric in politics), but easily understood, and detested. Life within the wall for this fantasy realm would be unbearable, both for the repression and the horrible treatment of the people who live there. It's also an excellent story, a captivating read that demanded my attention. I had to see if our lovers would survive, if the Elders would remain in control or if they would meet their much deserved ends. It's another recommended read for me. Fantasy lovers and paranormal romance lovers would find it most easy to devour. Five out of five fairy kisses for this reader.

I received my ebook as a prize in a contest held by Ms. Knight. All opinions expressed are my own.

Deliverance, Mortal Path, Book 3 by Dakota Banks

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Tue, 15 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Publisher: Harper Collins/Harper Voyager
Pages: 340

(Release Date: March 27, 2012)

From the Cover:

Kill . . . or be damned.

A demon's assassin for centuries, Maliha Crayne has gone rogue, determined to save a life for every one she's destroyed in order to free herself from an eternity of enslavement, damnation, and excruciating torment. But as the powers that sustained her in the past fade, she is wary of trusting those closest to her—especially her lover, Jake. And her closest friends are beginning to disappear, one by one. Amid her anger, suspicion, and sorrow, her life is spiraling out of control.

Worse still, a beautiful Renaissance murderess is recruiting Maliha as her new assassin. Maliha is turning into a lethal puppet with an evil Immortal pulling the strings, forced to kill innocents or see her missing friends die horribly. Suddenly trapped in a moral no-man's-land, Maliha is damned if she does and damned if she doesn't . . . and time is rapidly running out.

(Originally posted on Book Lovers, Inc.)

Maliha, the ex-demon assassin, needs to balance the scales of justice. For each life unjustly taken as the demon assassin, a life must be saved. As the scales balance, tiny footsteps burned across Maliha's flesh. But, there is another price for the justice she seeks. With every balance of the scale, she grows older, her body slows, and takes longer to heal from her time as one of the Ageless. It makes her more vulnerable to the forces wishing to end her before she achieves her goal, and her soul becomes her own once more.

This time around, Maliha finds herself up against her worst foe yet. To the real world, she is known as Marsha Winters, author extraordinaire. To her close friends, she's known as Mahila, the righters of wrongs. But, when she returns from the trip to New York, she finds people are missing from her life. First, Arnie Henshaw and then one of her closest friends and advisors, Yanmeng. Arnie was a warning, a foretelling of what is to come. When pieces of Yanmeng start arriving at her apartment, she knows something has gone horribly wrong. Someone wants to pull her strings, become their murderer for hire. Not only does she have to worry about getting Yanmeng back before he's cut up into tiny pieces, but she has to worry about the tight knit group that surrounds her. If Yanmeng was vulnerable, the rest would be easy prey.

The ex-demon assassin takes matters into her own hands. An Ageless has to be responsible, which can only mean, a demon is behind this latest assault on her sanity and her ability to earn back her soul. Then, there's Jake, DEA agent, her lover, and Ageless assassin. She wants to love him, but she can't trust him. Is he the Ageless responsible for Yanmeng? Would he remove everyone important in her life to make sure he stays in hers? She can't rest until Yanmeng is returned and the responsible party held accountable. The question remains, will she succeed or will she become the one thing she detest, an assassin in the service to another demon?

Deliverance by Dakota Banks is the third book in her Mortal Path series. And not to worry, if this is your first foray into the series, it is easy to read as a stand alone. There is plenty of background information to the new reader and well as the longtime fans of the series. In this addition, someone is hunting Mahila's friends. Picking them off, using them as leverage in a bid to retain her services as an assassin. This she can't have. She won't become a demon's puppet ever again. Yanmeng, her oldest and closest friend, has been taken and she has to be honest with herself... he may not even be alive. But, it becomes the new purpose in her life to see his safe return and the demon assassin responsible to meet their doom. Is she strong enough to meet this new challenge? Are her friends? And will they understand if she leaves them, even if it's for their own safety? This new challenge disrupts her life and those of the friends, and if she honest with herself, they have become family, something she never thought to have again. But, if she can't keep them safe, she can't keep them at all. Then, there's Jake and she's becoming more suspicious of him all the time. There are events that only an Ageless could be responsible for, and though he claims his demon as forgotten about him, Mahila doesn't buy it. Evidence of Jake's deviousness keeps popping up in her life.

Deliverance delivers a pulse pounding start, Mahila is back in action with and she's better than before. And it ends in the same way, a wild ride in the life of the one-time assassin. Mahila faces choices, decisions will have to be made, and it all depends on how much she's willing to sacrifice and for whom. She has a code in her life, one she's bound to if she going to buy back her soul, if she's going to right the centuries of the past. But, she also has another code, one she holds sacred, and that's for the tight knit group of friends. Lovers aren't taken lightly in Mahila's life and Jake is proven himself, but something is wrong in their relationship, and it leads Mahila to question more than just his love, his desire, his almost fascination. Dakota Banks writes a series where action pours from the pages, from one heart racing event to another. A strong story of lifetimes bound together, where friendship means more, where love is shared. The Mortal Path series is urban fantasy at it's best. The new reader wouldn't have any trouble at all picking up this book and being drawn into the story. My personal preference is that I like to start at the beginning of the series and read my way forward, but it's not necessary for Ms. Banks' series. Highly recommended for urban fantasy lovers, it's one not to be misses. Paranormal Romance lovers may also want to give this one a try, just enough romance to keep them needing more too. Five out of five fairy kisses for this reader.

I received a copy of the ebook for review from BLI. All opinions expressed are my own.

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 93

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Mon, 14 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Good Monday Morning Flash Fictionados!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day, whether you're a mother or not, there's always loved to be shared! I've been so busy with school years coming to an end, sending off the last of my submission requests (last week... hoping for the best), and finally getting back to reading (it feels so good to just sit back and read a little). Maybe I'll start a new project for the summer? (have to get my house in order too, it's time to clean, baby!)

So, without further delay, it's time for this weeks...

This week's image is brought to us by the lovely Blodeuedd!

It's absolutely wonderful!! So much going on!!

The rules remain the same, 350 words and post your response on Friday.

Have a great week, my lovelies!!

Ciao!

Sweet Bytes by Kimber An

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Thu, 10 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Publisher: Noble Romance Young Adult
Pages: 266

(Release Date: November 3, 2011)

From the Cover:

Ophelia’s escape from Martin, an Addicted Newblood, came at a terrible sacrifice.
Adrian, the boy she loves, is now infected and hunted like vermin.

As her new Protector, Tristan Li represents the Oldblood determination to destroy Adrian, along with all the Newbloods, addicted or not.

In her grief, Ophelia hates everything about Tristan, until his subtle strength empowers her to resist being turned into a vampire by the High Prefect.

As Tristan helps Ophelia harness her empathic ability, his need for redemption rings in her heart. Her own strength grows, along with her passion for freedom.

The veil of mourning lifts.

The evil of Martin returns.

Ophelia seizes ownership of her destiny.

Ophelia has lost a lot in her young life. Her father killed by Martin's parents and Adrian infected by Martin. When it all comes down to it, Martin is slowly destroying her life. If she lets it, grief will ruin her life. But, she's stronger than how she's been living, and so is her family.

Ophelia picks herself up, and pulls herself together. She forces her mother and sister to get into line. But, then Martin makes his return, and what's left of her family is forced to flee from their Alaskan home, only to find that Ophelia and sister are extraordinary young women, following in the footstep on their grandmother.

But, will Martin track them? Will Tristan survive, with his unrequited love? Can Ophelia face one more challenge?

Sweet Bytes by Kimber An is the continuation of Ophelia's life story, an young diabetic called a "Sweet" by the Newbloods, her blood candy to the addicted. Martin has reeked havoc in her life, and it continues, as Ophelia tries to escape his clutches. But, will this time be the last? Or will Martin captured her, drained her in his need to possess her?

Sweet Bytes takes Ophelia's character where it always needed to go. To the gutsy, strong willed young woman she's grown to be. She's been shaped by her reality to become what she has to, the defender and hopeful heroine of her life and her family. I have to say, this was the best of the series so far, I love the direction Ophelia's life is going in, and I have to wonder, where it will lead in the end. Adrian isn't finished in Ophelia's life either, and I wondered what next for him as well. Young adult paranormal romance readers will find a satisfying read here. Five out of five fairy kisses for this reader.

I received a copy of the ebook for review from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.

Desperate Choices by Hildie McQueen

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Wed, 09 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Publisher: Crescent Moon Press
Pages: 34

(Release Date: April 14, 2012)

From the Cover:

When an Immortal demon slayer saves Rachel Andrews from certain death, her life changes forever. An unbreakable bond with the handsome Protector, drags her into a world she never believed existed and has no desire to be part of.

The actions of one night drastically alter the course of his long existence. Torn between his feelings for Rachel and his life's calling, Roderick Cronan comes face to face with the fact that he is losing both.

Roderick Cronan can't leave the woman, even as life wants to slip away from her body. It goes against everything in his body and soul. He does the only thing he can do to save her.

Rachel Andrews wakes in a strange bed, not her own, and attracted to the most stunning male she's ever seen. This can't be happening, or at least, not in her quiet life.

What happens when a mortal woman is given the blood of an Immortal Warrior, A Protector? Neither can deny this fatal attraction, one that might change their lives forever.

Desperate Choices by Hildie McQueen is just that, a desperate choice... whether to save a life and risk possible exposure of the Protectors, or let the woman die, alone and broken, and not by her own actions. Roderick does what he has to, but in doing so, he may destroy the only life he's ever known. Rachel isn't given a choice, when she wakes, at least she still alive. But, at what cost?

Desperate Choice is a prequel to Desperate Betrayal. It's the story of Rachel and Roderick who is kidnapped in the first book (which if you read my review is a most excellent read). It's also our introduction to Cyn (hero of Desperate Betrayal) and Julian (sexy leader of the Protectors). And what a better way to try a new author? These little mini-reads, Crescent Moon Press' New Line, Little Moons, are an excellent opportunity. Each little read is only 99 cents!! What a great deal!! Rush on over to Amazon, and pick up a few of these tasty morsels! Five out of five fairy kisses for this reader.

I received this ebook for review from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.

A Stiff Kiss by Avery Olive

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Tue, 08 May 2012 12:30:00 +0000

Publisher: Crescent Moon Press
Pages: 202

(Released: February 6, 2012)

From the Cover:

Death always hits Xylia Morana too close to home, but she likes it that way. She hangs out with the terminally ill, attends random funerals, and every so often, when the weather is right, she sleeps in open graves.

But after Landon Phoenix, the high school hottie, dies in Xylia's arms, she sneaks into the morgue to say goodbye. How could she know stealing a kiss from his corpse would wake him up?

With Landon returned to the living and suddenly interested in Xylia, life has new meaning. But what Xylia doesn't realize is that by kissing Landon back to life, she's thrown Life and Death off balance. The underworld demands a body, and it might just have to be Xylia's this time.

Xylia Morana doesn't need to the same as everyone, she's unique, a one of a kind. So, she's a little into death, likes to hang out in morgues, cemeteries, works on the terminal ward, and, best of all, attends stranger's funerals. Why is she so preoccupied with death? Maybe it has something to do with losing her mother, or then again, maybe not. But, there's nothing wrong with her, she's not crazy, she doesn't need to be fixed.

Landon Phoenix has the whole world at his feet, literally. He's the star soccer player on his high school team, the Rams. He's one of the cool kids, the in-crowd, he's popular and he could have any girl he wants with a nod of the head. Landon's also a ticking time bomb, he doesn't know when he takes the field for the championship game that it will be his last. No soccer scout's dream, no scholarship, no more life.

Xylia has had a crush on Landon since freshman year, when he enrolled in Silversprings High School. When he goes down on the field, she's one of the first on the scene. As her father begins CPR, he enlists the help of his daughter, to try to save Landon's life. As the minutes tick down, Xylia wishes just one time that she and Landon had talked, and most of all, kissed. So, that's what happens, while Landon's body rests in the morgue, Xylia sneaks in and kisses him with one last kiss goodbye, and that's when he is jerked back to life.

A Stiff Kiss by Avery Olive is a YA paranormal romance about a girl with a definite fetish for death and she's hung up on the hottest guy in school and the star soccer player. Xylia Morana's life has been turbulent. Her mother's death brings a need to understand death, to be closer to death, and to understand why death came so early for her mother. She sneaks into the morgue at the hospital where she and her father, Dr. Morana work, sleeps in open graves and explores cemeteries, goes to stranger's funerals, she even works on the ward for terminally ill patients, all in a bid to understand her mother's death. Her father thinks she needs help, but what she really needs is for him to understand she isn't broken, doesn't need to be fixed, there's no magic pill to cure her. She needs to discover for herself, life, death, and the part in between. Landon Phoenix just found out that his family doesn't have enough money to send him to college, his one hope is to snag a full ride scholarship, and why wouldn't he? He's the star soccer player, scouts have been watching him play, his life should be nothing but sunshine and roses, except death waits for him too. When he collapses on the field, unknown to him, his hopes and dreams come to an end. Death snatches him away from life before it can really begin. It isn't until Xylia kisses him one last goodbye that Landon grabs ahold of life and refuses to let go. But, maybe it isn't his choice or Xylia's. After all, balance has to be maintained, for every death a soul must be retrieved. Can Landon give up life to save another? Can Xylia let go of her one true soul mate?

A Stiff Kiss is a cute play on words, Landon is a stiff and Xylia does give him with one last kiss, I even moved it up on my reading list so I could see how the story would come together with it's title. It's also a great little story, told through the eyes of Xylia and Landon, dual first person POV. Each chapter is labeled with which character is speaking, so it's very easy to follow (which is a complaint when dealing with multiple POVs). I have to say that the story is funny, feels real, at times stalker-ish, and in the end, heart wrenching. Xylia makes discoveries that will change her life, and hopefully, Landon's, even if it's in the great beyond. As Xylia comes to discover what is truly important, she also discovers that life should be lived, death is only a part of it. Landon, with his death and then life, helps her along the way. It's a heart wrenching story because of Landon, and Xylia's mother's, ultimate fate. My eyes prickled with tears for the young Xylia, and then again, for Landon and everything they'll be forced to give up. A Stiff Kiss is an excellent quick read, I finished the book in two quick sittings. I love the cover art and the title with it's fun play on words. If you're looking for something different from the ordinary, unique like Xylia, you'll find it in A Stiff Kiss. YA paranormal romance/fantasy lovers will want to give this one a try, it's too good to pass by. Five out of five fairy kisses for this reader.

I received my copy of the ebook for review from the author, Avery Olive. All opinions expressed are my own.

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 92

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Mon, 07 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Well, it's that time again... I don't know where the weekend went, but it's Monday, so it must be time for another edition of...

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge!!

This week's image is as I promised, the one Carol found and put on my facebook wall. It's kind of creepy with a mirror image that's totally freaky...

Looks kind of sweet doesn't...until you see the mirror. I gotta wonder, what the heck happened, not that she looks happy or anything, but she is pretty in pink! Okay, I let everyone give it a go and see what we get.

The rules remain the same, 350 words and post your response on Friday.

Have a great week!

Ciao!

Promo~Kendall Grey~Inhale (flash mob post)

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Tue, 01 May 2012 09:30:00 +0000

Publisher: Kendall Grey
Pages: 467

(Release Date: May 1, 2012)

From the Cover:

Strangers in reality, inseparable in dreams…

After years of suffocating under her boss’s scrutiny, whale biologist Zoe Morgan finally lands a job as director of a tagging project in Hervey Bay, Australia. Success Down Under all but guarantees her the promotion of a lifetime, and Zoe won’t let anything—or anyone—stand in her way. Not the whale voices she suddenly hears in her head, not the ex who won’t take no for an answer, and especially not the gorgeous figment of her imagination who keeps saving her from the fiery hell of her dreams.

Gavin Cassidy hasn’t been called to help a human Wyldling in over a year, which is fine by him. Still blaming himself for the death of his partner, he keeps the guilt at bay by indulging in every excess his rock star persona affords. That is, until he’s summoned to protect Zoe from hungry Fyre Elementals and learns his new charge is the key to restoring order in the dying Dreaming. He never expects to fall for the feisty Dr. Morgan…nor does he realize he may have to sacrifice the woman he loves to save an entire country.

*This book contains graphic language, sex, and some violence. Not suitable for readers under the age of 18. **The author will donate all profits from the sale of the JUST BREATHE trilogy to programs that educate people about whales and the challenges they face.

From Kendall Grey:

I can't believe it. My urban fantasy romance, INHALE, is finished and ready to face the world. It's been a long four years getting to this point, but worth every minute.

Because the whales inspired me to write Gavin and Zoe's story, I'm donating all my profits from the three books in the JUST BREATHE trilogy to programs that educate people about whales and the challenges they face. Number one on my donation list is Whale Camp, which gives kids hands-on research experience with whales in their natural environment. This is an amazing group, and I'm thrilled to provide financial support to students who can't afford to attend Whale Camp.

If you'd like to purchase INHALE but can't decide whether to go for the paperback, Kindle version, or Nook version, I encourage you to buy an e-book.

Here's why:

It's much cheaper for you as a buyer
E-books save trees
The whales will get considerably more money for every e-book purchase ($2 vs 10 cents for a paperback).

Reviews and Amazon "Likes" are always appreciated. Reviews -- positive and negative -- make the book more visible on Amazon's sprawling search engine. All three books in the JUST BREATHE trilogy are also listed on Goodreads. Adds and reviews there also make me jiggle for joy. :-)

Blog:http://www.kendallgrey.com

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

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/kendallgrey1

Goodreads:http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5108885.Kendall_Grey

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 91

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 16:49:00 +0000

Good Monday Morning to my blogger buddies!

It was another long week of editing, but my second MS is about to leave my fingers and head into the world. It's scary actually, my heart's in my throat, lol. After all, it is one of my babies.

Since it's Monday, it must be time for another edition of...

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge!

There were so many great images to choose from this morning. I spend so much time searching for images, I really enjoy it! And remember, if you find an images or even a bunch of images that you like, send them to me! I already have an image for today, so next week, I think I'll use that cool image Carol posted on my wall!!

This week's image is a little dark, but you know I love the darkness... so...

I hope everyone enjoys it! Maybe I'll find time (I hope!) to write for it too! It's been a while since I've had the time to write a wee bit of flash, but that will be changing (until my next project begs to be started anyway, lol).

The rules remain the same, 350 words (or there about) and come back Friday to post your response.

Have a great week, my lovelies!!

Ciao!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 90

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 04:52:00 +0000

Good Monday Evening!!

It was prom here this weekend and I haven't yet recovered from staying up until 4 am, waiting for my children and their dates to make their way home.... *yawn* So without further delay, it's time for....

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge

I tried to find something a little different... something we hadn't seen in a while... but I really liked this image, so lets see what everyone else thinks....

This is different, right? LOL

The rules remain the same, 350 words and come back on Friday to post your response.

Okay, so I'm going to edit a little bit more than crash and hope not to burn.

Ciao!!

Earth Day 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 20:43:00 +0000

Happy Earth Day!!!

From Tink and Me, Please Remember To Go Green!!!

It's Not Easy Being Green by Kermit the Frog....

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 89 (The Wednesday Edition)

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 18:36:00 +0000

Good Wednesday Morning!!!

I had a blast at RT 2012, but I have to admit, I'm glad it's over. There was so much to do, so many authors to meet, and I met some of my favorites.... the best was probably Charlaine Harris, she's a lovely person, so nice and I'm sure a fan girl.... Leanne Renee Hieber (squee!) took a picture with me (again such a fan girl!) and Hildie McQueen, Ciara Knight, Jordan Rose.... I love you guys!! They were so nice to me, letting me bend their ears, listening to my pitch, encouraging me. Thank you all so much!! Lynn Rush was such a sweetie, just like I thought she'd be. Jennifer Estep (again squee!) so sweet, she gave me a big handful of bookmarks. It was all good fun!

So... back to the point of today's blog... It's time for another Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge!!

Today's image is one I found plodding my way through the fantasy websites. I hope everyone enjoys it!

I really like the rose petals and butterflies as they mingle with her dark waves, it made me wonder if she was some goddess, having a tempest or if she lost to the spring or maybe autumn breeze? It's beautiful!!

The rules remain the same, 350 words and come back Friday to post your respond. (I'll be off and on line a lot this week, I forgot to mention that at pitch-a-palooza RT 2012, I received a couple of requests for fulls and a couple of partials... that's requests for manuscripts... squee again!!) Maybe it won't lead to anything or maybe it will, but it was amazing to me to find the editors interested in my ideas. So, I getting ready email and everything is getting a good once over. Amazing!

Have a great week!!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 88

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 09:43:00 +0000

Good Morning Flash Fictioneers!!

I'm being a good blogger and flash mistress (lol, mistress....) by scheduling my Monday Morning Flash Fiction waaaay back on Wednesday of last week... (I think I just fell into some kind to time warp/quantum leap kind of thing....! My head is spinning.... my world is slipping away from under my feet.... oh, wait, never mind....) Anyway.. I'm easily distracted. I guess I'm like Kevin on UP.... squirrel!

Since I'm leaving for RT (yay me!) I'm getting the post done early. So, without further adieu or ballyhoo... It's time for the Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge!!

Today's lovely image is another fantasy image... this one is so different from others we've had lately, I had to give it a try.

It's kinda one of those fairytale type images... maybe a fairytale gone wrong or cracked?? I don't know, I'll let you decide or maybe you see something totally different...

I hope everyone enjoys it!!

(I'll be posting pic and news from RT in the evenings, and if you don't follow me on facebook, please do! I'll be posting pics directly to my facebook page. Going to be so much fun!)

Have a great week!

Ciao my lovelies!!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 87 (The Tuesday Edition)

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 18:27:00 +0000

Good Tuesday Morning!

Sorry to all my flash fiction buddies.... We had a college orientation day yesterday... (this will continue for the foreseeable future as I have three kids and every year one is graduating high school, attending high school, changing colleges, starting college... whatever... I never thought I'd say I'm sick of visiting colleges....) Yesterday was the most boring.. most annoying.. most exhausting visiting yet! And it was to my alma marter, it should have been fun and interesting. Instead, it was awful! The highlight was stopping and talking with my friend, Jonelle Depetro, Dean of the Philosophy department! Jonelle and I haven't visited with each other in a couple of years, her daughter and mine did gymnastics together for years. Miss those days..... (and she's going to writing for Kirsten to get a scholarship!! Yipee!!)

So, anyway, I was too tired and sore from walking a million miles on the crutches yesterday to do anything but collapse... Now, today, it's time for the Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge... just a day late.

Today's image is another I found surfing through the cyber wilds.... I hope everyone enjoys it. (Next week at this time, I'll leaving for RT... Can't believe it!!)

I'm trying to decide if the figure represents death, the fight against it, an evil super being, maybe the good guy?? Baffled... but intrigued!

Can't wait to read some flashes!!

Have a great week!

Ciao!!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 86 (The Wednesday Edition)

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:13:00 +0000

Well, did it again. I promise to try to be a more conscientious blogger in the future (I can try, I really will). I forgot to post the flash. Oops!

This week's image is another Luis Royo's fabulous images, and again, B, I thought of you...

I really like it!! Hope I get time to write for it too! I've been trying to get everything ready for vacay. My husband and I have been getting to leave for RT in Chicago. He's such a sweetie! He's going to spend part of his vacation taking me to a book conference!! LOL Can't believe it!

Have a great week everyone!

Ciao!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 85 (The Tuesday Edition)

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 17:04:00 +0000

Good Tuesday Morning!!

Yesterday just got away from me... what can I say, it was one of those looooong haaarrrd weekends... full of turmoil and strife.... sounds like a book I read....

So, anyway.... it's time for the flash!

I'm giving everyone something different. We have had a historical or historical fantasy image in a while... so I hope everyone can use it or at least finds it appealing, lol. (B, I thought of you....)

It's an image by IruLana from DeviantArt.com... I thought the colors and image were amazing, so I hope everyone enjoys it!!

Have a great week (maybe it be better than my last weekend....lol)!

Ciao!!

Promo ~ Sherrily Kenyon's New Book: Infamous, Chronicles of Nick Series

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 18:44:00 +0000

Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Pages: 480

(Released: March 13, 2012)

From the Cover:

The world has fallen in love with Nick Gautier and the Dark-Hunters.

Now Nick’s saga continues in the next eagerly anticipated volume...

Go to school. Get good grades. Stay out of trouble. That’s the mandate for most kids. But Nick Gautier isn’t the average teenager. He’s a boy with a destiny not even he fully understands. And his first mandate is to stay alive while everyone, even his own father, tries to kill him.

He’s learned to annihilate zombies and raise the dead, divination and clairvoyance, so why is learning to drive and keep a girlfriend so dang hard? But that isn’t the primary skill he has to master. Survival is.

And in order to survive, his next lesson makes all the others pale in comparison. He is on the brink of becoming either the greatest hero mankind has ever known.

Or he’ll be the one who ends the world. With enemies new and old gathering forces, he will have to call on every part of himself to fight or he’ll lose everyone he cares about.

Even himself.

Wanna read the first two chapters??

http://www.sherrilynkenyon.com/book/infamous/

Book Trailer:

Wanna visit Sherrily Kenyon's website (and wonderful worlds)??

www.officialsanctuary.com

www.sherrilynkenyon.com

Have a great week!!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 84

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 16:56:00 +0000

Oooops!! Sorry Flash Fiction Writers! The day got away from me (I was queasy and sleepy, okay that sounds like a few of the dwarfs, lol). It was just one of those days where everything piled up and I couldn't keep my head above water (along with sleeping to try to stave off the queasiness...so not fun).

So, I'm going to try to get this done in the next 10 minutes, so it actually posts on Monday...

Today's image is one I found trolling through free photo stock and fantasy pages... Hope everyone enjoys it! :)

I found it to be sooo pretty!! I hope everyone gives it a try!! (I did lengthen the image a little to see the detail better....)

The rules remain the same, 350 words (or thereabout) and come back Friday to post a response.

Have a great week!! (I'm goin back to bed!!)

Ciao!!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 83

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:28:00 +0000

Good Monday Morning!

It was a long weekend here, solo and ensemble competition for son #two. He did great!! One first place, two seconds (and with one, he only received his music the day before the competition... I was amazed he was able to make the glockenspiel [the bells] sound so sweet)...

Okay, since it's Monday... it's time for another edition of...

Today's image as promised is another dragon image, but slightly different, or at least I hope is it!

This is another of Luis Royo's images, one I believe called, Dragon Mistress. You have to look close to see the dragon image, but I must admit, I found it amazing!! I'm trying to decide if she carries the spirit of the dragon inside her, if she shifts to release the dragon (how awesome would that be??), or if the dragon is remember as an old friend or mentor... So many possibilities!! I can't wait to see what you all come up with!

As always, the rule remain the same, 350 words (or there about) and come back Friday to post your response.

Have a lovely week!!

(I soon will have time for more participation.. my self imposed banishment is almost over!! My MS is almost complete!! Today or tomorrow should see the words... The End... at least for this story...)

Ciao!!

Desperate Betrayal by Hildie McQueen

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 16:40:00 +0000

Publisher: Crescent Moon Press
Pages: 270

(Released: September 10, 2011)

From the Cover:

Cynden Frasier (Cyn) is a member of a group of immortal warriors, the Protectors, assigned to protect humans in Atlanta, Georgia, the epicenter of a major uprising in demon activity. When Cyn is approached by a beautiful woman in a dirty alley, he is intrigued by the fact that she can see him for what he is, a terrifying demon slayer, and still dares to approach him.

Emma Blake, a half-demon, has to convince Cyn to help rescue her sister from powerful demons. Terrified that the Protector will kill her if he realizes what she is, she still goes against every instinct and approaches Cyn for help. Despite knowing that she is leading them both into territory so wrought with treachery, neither of them may survive.

Can Cyn and Emma overcome betrayal, the ancient rules that prevent Protectors from taking a wife, unless she is his one true mate? And if they do, will it even matter?

Emma had done some things in her life that she wasn't exactly proud of... and trying to lure one of the Protectors away from safety and into the clutches of the demons was one of them. But, the demons had her sister, Briana, and not just any demon, but their cruel leader, Gerard. Briana was the only family Emma had left. She couldn't leave her to the demons, not even if Briana didn't listen. Not even if she was turned herself, Emma wouldn't or couldn't leave Briana to her fate. But, why did it have to be Cynden?

Cynden has been a Protector for nearly as long as he can remember. When the change came upon him, he had little choice of refusal. His brother, Kieran, struggled against the change, finally giving in to the inevitable. But, it was a good life, Cyn had done well, and he was still alive, him and Blue, his adopted son. He enjoyed what he did, demons were the bad guys, and if he could protect the humans, that much better. Until his life starts to lose focus, all because some woman wanders into his path, Emma, and her captured sister. Roderick, a former Protector and friend, is missing and it's ripping his wife, Rachel, apart.

Now, Emma tells Cyn, she knows where Roderick is, and it just happens to be with the demons. The ones holding her sister.

Desperate Betrayal by Hildie McQueen is an enchanting tale from it's beginnings. Emma becomes a Cyn stalker and an unwilling demon pawn, showing up when he least expects it. Only, he finds himself drawn to the woman, her eyes, his fingers itch to touch her hair and her body, her very scent drives his need. And it sends his Protector senses into heightened response. Life mate screams in his mind, but Protectors aren't allowed to take mates, which is what cost Roderick his place in the fold. Now, Roderick was gone with little hope of finding him, especially alive, and he can't even think it unless he wants Rachel to see it in his thoughts and actions. When Cyn can't leave Emma at the scene of a demon attack, he blindfolds her, drags her to his home on the back of his massive bike. Blue is delighted, but Cyn can't trust Blue's safety to anyone, and now Emma can't be released, not with Protector and his son's security at risk. His brother, Kieran, doesn't understand his need, but Cyn finds he does need Emma, in his life and his bed. When Emma tells him Roderick is being held captive by the demons, he must risk the tentative trust he's willing to give her, only to find betrayal in her heart.

Desperate Betrayal is exactly what the name implies, a desperate betrayal, one not willingly made or easily found. But demons control Emma's actions and she'll do what she has to, not only for her sister, but for the one who has stolen her heart, Cyn. What he sees as betrayal, she knows is sacrifice because she's willing to sell her life for his, even if he can't see it. She has to put an unfeeling tone in her voice, has to let Gerard take her lips in a demanding painful kiss. She only wants Cyn, and he only sees betrayal. No matter what else happens, Cyn must survive, and he only sees it with her sacrifice for Blue. Hildie McQueen gives us an excellent first novel, a story told with passion, desire, and need. When Cyn and Emma come together, the heat pours from the pages. This is the first book, and debut novel, of the Protectors series, and I can't wait to read Kieran's story, and I feel Fallon's may come too. So many great Protectors, so many potential stories to tell. Paranormal romance lovers, urban fantasy fans, and supernatural hero lovers will all want to give this one a try. It's a wonderful read, on my recommend list. Five out of five fairy kisses for this happy reader.

I received my copy from the author, Hildie McQueen, for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Awaited by Lynn Rush

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Publisher: Crescent Moon Press
Pages: 307

(Release Date: May 2012)

From the Cover:

Russell Leonard is a centuries-old Guardian who’s lost faith in his purpose. So when he’s charged with procuring the first female Guardian in over two centuries, he can only hope it’s the red-headed beauty who’s been haunting his dreams for months. And if it is, he intends to claim her as his. But when he finds his dream woman, Annabelle is mute and bears no Guardian’s Mark.

He soon realizes she’s been tainted by an ancient evil. Russell must somehow release the secrets trapped within this delicate soul to help her tap into the only weapon powerful enough to silence a millennia-old demon—her voice.

Russell, friend and protector of Beka, Queen of the Guardians on Earth, and his friend and follower, Durk have been sent on a mission by Jessica, the Merus of the Light, to find and bring back the first female Guardian born in the last two centuries. Jessica's cryptic in her directions, only giving a possible location, and asking Russell to take extra socks and shirts. But, that's just Jessica's way.

Russell and Durk begin their journey, only to get immediately side tracked by an airplane crash and then, by saving a red-headed beauty who has haunted Russell's dreams. She heals quicker than she's supposed to, but is mute without cause. It's a baffling case, one Russell needs to solve if only for his peace of mind. Because, he's sure, Annabelle is destined to be his.

When they arrived at their appointed destination, it's to find the small town overrun with demons. How can they succeed or even survive their mission? How can Russell claim what he needs... Annabelle as his mate... if only death waits for the centuries old Guardian?

Awaited, Book Two, The Wasteland Series by Lynn Rush is a rockin read from the very first page. In Wasteland, we met Russell who was powerful, but needy and ever so slightly lost, a little fractured. It's his mission to protect Beka until her King could be found, but who knew a half-demon/half-human would become that King? David and Beka are the first consorts in a millennia, and now, it's supposed to be Russell's turn. He lost to the dreams of the red-headed woman and yet, he has no idea who or where she is.. until the fateful airplane crash. After saving the young woman's life, Russell and Durk are plagued by demons. No matter how many are destroyed, more take their place. Russell feels he hasn't a chance. And there's an ancient evil waiting to put it's own plan into play. But, who will be sacrificed? Are the Guardians strong enough to withstand the loss?

Awaited is an excellent follow up to Wasteland, and I rarely say this, it's as good if not better than the first book. Amazing. Thought provoking. Wonderfully told. It was easily read in one sitting. As I sat reading into the wee hours of the morning, I kept checking the pages, not because I wondered how much longer the book was, but I didn't want to turn that last page, the one where the story had to be over. The Wasteland series has become like an old friend, and I don't want to see them leave. Lynn Rush tells a compelling story, one that grabs the reader's attention in the first few pages, and doesn't let it go. I'm already anxious for the third book in the series. Crescent Moon Press has been blessed with talented cover artists, and Awaited is no exception. And what I like the most is the covers reflect the story to come, and we all know, that is a rare commodity in the publishing world. Crescent Moon Press is making a name for itself in the ebook publishing community by signing talented authors, and Lynn Rush is no exception. If you like battles between the ancient evil of the Dark and the goodness contained within the Light, this is an excellent addition to your library. Paranormal romance lovers, changed reality lovers, even urban fantasy lovers will want to give this series a try, so good, it is a must read. I would recommend reading Wasteland first, but if you can't wait, Awaited can be read alone, more than enough background information is given for the reader to be drawn in. But then you'd miss the wonderful tale of David and Beka's story, and you wouldn't want to do that, now would you? Five out of five fairy kisses for this reader.

I received my ebook copy for review from the author, Lynn Rush. All opinions expressed are my own.

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 82

noreply@blogger.com (Dottie Taylor) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 16:17:00 +0000

Good Monday Morning Flash Fictionados!!

Well, I hope everyone had a great weekend! I got to go prom dress shopping Saturday. Found my son's girlfriend the most gorgeous dress at a little shop in Decatur IL called "It's A Girl Thing". It's a great little boutique, I love it!! This will be my daughter's last prom, her boyfriend graduates this spring. It's my son's second prom... he's a junior this year, but I don't think his girlfriend will let me shop for her again next year... only this year because my daughter needed a dress. I was able to find her an amazing deal, the gowns in It's A Girl Thing are beautiful, breathtaking. It's where we purchase that gorgeous gown my daughter wore last year to prom. I wish I'd found it sooner and that I had more reasons to shop there!

On the downside, my daughter got up Sunday morning with pink eye!! After we went shopping, she went to her boyfriend's house. He had pink eye last week, but he stayed home until the infection was gone. Unfortunately, his nephew must have been infected because she hugged and kissed the little guy who also got up Sunday with pick eye. It's been a really long weekend, lol! Now cleaning everything, wiping door knobs, and making her stay in her room. And lots of hand washing!! Hope no one else picks it up... I so tired of trying to kill off germs....lol...first the flu now pick eye...

Anyway, since it's Monday, it's time for another edition of....

The image for this week will hopefully shake up what we've been doing with our flashes!! LOL I've only attempted a flash with this type of image once. I really liked doing it, but it was really difficult for me to write. If anyone wants to see how I wrote mine, click here. I hope I have time for write for this flash, because I think the image is freaking awesome. And I know what I'd like to write. I just need more minutes, lol

It's a fantasy anime image, and I'll let you decide how to proceed, what the image means....

And for an alternative...

Dragons! (We could see more dragons next week, I found some gorgeous images!!)

Dragons are always great for the imagination, and I found some wonderful images. This one is fantastic with the huge dragon filling sky. Hope everyone finds something appealing with one or both of the images.

Have a great week!!

Ciao!