Charlene Blogs

Fire and Fantasy: A Limited Edition Collection of Urban and Epic Fantasy Is Ready for Pre-Order!

2017-08-18T01:48:00.000-05:00

Burn the Earth and revenge is yours!

Set the world ablaze for the one you love!

Unleash Magic, Fire, and Fantasy!

These 20+ full length Fantasy novels are packed with daring quests, bewitching legends, and dark magic. Embark on wild adventures alongside fiery dragons, demons, mutant vampires, and sword-wielding heroes!

FIRE & FANTASY will have your imagination soaring as you charge headfirst into this enchanting collection by today's hottest USA Today bestselling authors and rising new talents.

Pre-Order Today and lose yourself in the high-stake fates of lovers and villains!

Pre-Order Here:

Amazon | Kobo |NOOK | iTunes

Including exclusive material from the following authors:

.
A FISTFUL OF MAGIC ~ Cassandra Sky West
Caitlin Vnois only has a few days left in Puerto Rico. Sun, cocktails and photo shoots are all the elven supermodel has to look forward to. That is until a tsunami dumps a handsome ex-navy rescue swimmer in her lap. Then her sister, the crown princess of Atlantis, goes and gets herself kidnaped. So much for the vacation.

DEEP WATERS ~ Alicia Rades
When Bree Waters finds a merman washed ashore after a harsh storm, she begins to uncover secrets the Sea Haven city council is determined to keep hidden. But fighting back only sends Bree on a quick course toward deep waters--and deep waters are never easy to escape.

REBEL DRAGON ~ Steve Turnbull
As the life of a slave goes, Kantees doesn't have it too bad. Being responsible for a dragon means her existence is more than drudgery and fear. But when her charge wakes her one night she is forced to decide between letting others die, or forfeiting her own life by riding the dragon.

VAMPIRE'S HUNTER ~ Kassandra Lynn
Even the power of a centuries-old rivalry can't stop love...

PLIGHT OF THE PERFECT PRINCE ~ Jason Paul Rice,
A prince, a dwarf wizard and a castle outcast.
Everything about the 18 year old Prince Ali-Steven's life was perfect...except for one thing.

CLOAK OF SHADOWS ~ C.K. Dawn
Sir Lancelot's sexy descendant. A kick-ass huntress. And a snarky sidekick.
What if all you've ever known of King Arthur's legend was a lie to mislead you from the truth?

THE SOUL'S ALLIANCE ~ Wendy Knight
Konstanz is pretty sure her best friend is a demon hunter. A demon hunter with a broken heart.
That's a very dangerous thing indeed.

A TOUCH OF DARKNESS ~ Yelena Casale & Tina Moss
Cassie Durrett dreams of the darkness. And lives the nightmare.
When demons threaten the game, angels don't play by the rules.

UNDERTOW ~ Joss Dey
A world born of merged realities, turbulent and jagged and overrun with monsters...a woman infected with unruly magic, unknowingly using her soul to find love...

PROPHECY OF DARKNESS ~ Michelle Lynn & Michelle Bryan
What was once stolen must now be regained for only magic can save them from what is coming. A curse, a prophecy, a forbidden love - theirs is an impossible mission that must not fail.

SIREN'S LURE ~ Frost Kay
Hayjen never believed in myths and nightmares until he met the pirate captain of The Sirenidae. Lilja never planned on breaking her laws for one man. An ancient secret. One mistake. A doomed world.

THE SIREN ~ Meg Xuemei X
Lucienne was born to rule, but her fight for love could steal her birthright... and destroy humanity in the process.

CRESCENT ROGUE ~ Axelle Chandler
Every new beginning must come from an end, and with each defeat a new future is born.

THE WOMAN IN THE WIND ~ Samuel Stokes
The demands of duty, the pull of fate, the love of a lifetime.

PHOEBE AND THE STEEL CITY VAMPIRES ~ Eileen Enwright Hodgetts
Phoebe accidentally enslaves a domestic vampire; he's great around the house but his master wants him back.

THE TRANSFORMATION OF ANNA ~ Charlene A. Wilson
When Cole lifts from the kiss, he knows he's made the biggest mistake of his very long life.
"My life is a mirage of endless time. But you engulf me, rivet my mind, encompass my soul."

DRAGON SCALE LUTE ~ J.C. Kang
Only the lost magic of Dragon Songs can save the world. Only an awkward girl can rediscover it.

MAZE OF TAURUS ~ D.N. Leo
When chased by fire to the point of no return, and the maze of taurus offers the only way to hell, Zach chooses to face the fire.

THE HUNTRESS ~ J.A. Culican & Felicia Starr
In a world of magic and danger, the love between a goddess and a shifter is destined to become a legend... or end in heartbreak.

SCENT OF A DRAGON ~ Kris Austen Radcliffe
After Daisy Pavlovich's boyfriend abandons her in a small Wisconsin town, she stumbles upon a lonely young boy who claims to see dragons. Yet not all visions are real, nor is reality always what it appears to be, and the boy's unworldly isolation sparks painful memories of Daisy's own childhood. When Daisy realizes the boy's true nature -- and the true depth of the danger his Shifter father presents to both her and the child -- Daisy runs headlong into a paranormal fire she should have left alone. But every child deserves a chance, and Daisy's going to get the boy his even if it kills her....

SPHYNX - THE UNTOLD STORY ~ Jessica Cage
Some stories are told, others are not, the best ones are reimagined.

The authors have put together a GIFT for those who Pre-Order Fire & Fantasy!

Just take a screen shot of proof of purchase and send it to this email: fireandfantasy2017@gmail.com

Destiny ~ New Release!

2015-05-14T10:23:00.005-05:00

I'm excited to let everyone know that the third and final book of the Cornerstone Deep trilogy is OUT! That's right, released for everyone to read. And along with the release, there's a Goodreads Giveaway for 2 signed paperback copies! Enter to win below~

Goodreads Book Giveaway

Destiny

by Charlene A. Wilson

Giveaway ends May 26, 2015.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.

Enter to Win

Until next time,

May your dreams be magical.

Savory Sunday~Lavender Lemonade

2015-03-29T13:14:00.000-05:00

How to Make Lavender Lemonade

Combine ¾ cup of water with ½ cup of sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a low boil and stir until sugar dissolves, remove from heat. Add 3-4 organic lavender buds to heated sugar water mixture and allow to cool for 10 minutes.

Prepare frozen lemonade as directed, minus 1 cup of water. Remove lavender buds from sugar mixture, then pour sugar water into prepared lemonade and add fresh slices of lemon.

For color (optional), mix ¼ cup of water with one drop of blue food coloring and one drop of red food coloring.

For more info on this recipe here is the link to the original post :)

http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2011/06/lavender-lemonade/

Character Interview ~ Welcome Jesu, Ema and Jalmari from Dark Becoming!

2015-03-06T00:01:00.000-06:00

I love it when I'm able to interview my favorite characters, and Author J.D. Brown makes it so fun. Please welcome Jesu, Ema, and Jalmari of the Ema Marx series as they celebrate the release of the third book in the series, Dark Becoming!

Ema rings the doorbell. She adjusts her sunglasses and looks down at the blue plastic wrap in her hands. “I hope she likes the cookies.”

Jesu casually places a hand on Ema’s shoulder. “I am sure she will.”

Charlene lights the candles on the mantel and then rushes to the door. Swinging it wide, she hopes the glare from the small flames won’t be too uncomfortable for her two guests. They are vampires, after all. “Ema, Jesu! Oh it’s so good to see you!”

Ema squeals and gives Charlene a big bear hug, almost knocking off her sunglasses. “Charleeeeeeeeeene!”

Charlene stifles a grunt as Ema squeezes her far too tightly. “Oh Ema! I’m so glad you came. It’s been too long!”

Jesu chuckles. “Ema…you will break all the cookies. And Charlene, too.”

“Oh!” Ema releases Charlene. She readjusts her sunglasses with one hand and holds out the package of Oreo cookies with the other.* “These are for you.”

Breathless, Charlene takes the package. “Thank you! They’re Oreos? My total fav! I’ll be sure to enjoy them for both of us since I know your taste buds have changed a smidget since… you know, becoming Vampyre. Come in, come in! Thank you for coming all this way to my little corner of the world for my interview. I know you’ve been so busy.”

Ema and Jesu enter Charlene’s home and automatically settle into a settee facing away from the candles. Ema waves a hand through the air. “Are you kidding? We’re always happy visit! This is a great change of scenery after everything that’s happen. Yikes! In fact, let’s make plans to visit more often. Like, who says we need to wait for J.D. to finish another book?”

Jesu smiles to himself. “I agree. It is always a pleasure, Charlene.”

Charlene chuckles. “We’ll definitely meet more often. And speaking of JD, tell me, how in the world you managed to get through that opening scene JD wrote you into! How traumatic!”

“I know, right? I almost had a heart attack! Or a mini stroke. It was bad.” Ema nods decisively.

Jesu winces.

“What thoughts went through your mind when you realized what had happened to Jesu, Ema?”

“Oh. I was so relieved!” She sighs. “Jesu is not allowed to die.” She turns and narrows her gaze at Jesu. “You are not allowed to die, got it?”

Jesu bites the inside of his cheek to suppress a laugh, and raises his hands in surrender. “I will do my best. Promise.”

“Jesu, what were your thoughts when you opened your eyes after it happened?”

Jesu pauses to think. “I wanted to see Ema…to know that she was okay. Then I wanted to pound my brother into a pulp.”

“No doubt! You do a lot of traveling in this book. Care to fill us in on the highlights?”

“Oh, yeah. It’s like we went from one side of the world, to the other. First we went to Venice, which is only an hour-and-a-half flight from Berlin, not too bad. But then, as soon we got back to Germany, we had to re-pack and go off to Panama! That’s a fourteen-hour flight! Can you imagine being forced to sit still and worry about dying for fourteen hours straight at thirty-thousand feet in the air?” Ema points to herself. “I can.”

Charlene nods “I would have been a bucket of nerves if I had to wait that long, knowing I was about to face Apollyon! So, let’s lighten the topic a bit.” She winks. “What of this new character, Valafar. I have to admit, he’s hot!

Jesu turns to Ema. “You never told me he was attractive.”

Ema makes a face. “Gee, I must have forgotten to mention it while dealing with his wise-cracking. Yeah, he’s hot, but he’s so not my type.”

“Okay. We’ll move on again.” Charlene laughs. “A lot of things come to light in this book. How about some sneak peeks?

“That’s for sure. Goodness, where would I even start?” Ema opens the book and flips a few pages.

“Here, I’ll give you a few passages to share.”

Jesu shook his head. “You need to remember what you are dealing with, Ema. You want to play the hero and save everyone, but you need to wake up and realize that lives are going to be lost no matter what and, when it comes to my father, tortured. Those scars will never heal, Ema, because that is the kind of sadistic man my father is. It is not enough for him to physically hurt people; he has to impair their minds, too. He has to haunt them with reminders of what he has done so that they never fully heal. He has to make sure they break.” I yanked my hand away and glowered. “Good. I’m glad he mutilated me. You think I forgot the suffering and fear I went through? You’re wrong. It’s because I remember it that I want to end him so badly. I’m glad I have these scares to remind me. Apollyon didn’t break me, Jesu. I’m not broken until I’m dead.”

****

A lot of people might die.

Jesu warned me, but the reality didn’t sink in until now. I didn’t know the names of any of Nikolas’ soldiers, if they had spouses or children, but it didn’t matter. I didn’t want any of them to get hurt. I didn’t want any of them to not come back. They rallied about the room like a bunch of high school football players before a homecoming game, completely amped on the goal of winning. No doubt. No hesitation. It was stupid and naïve—but I had to believe in their enthusiasm. I had to believe we would all survive this, that the only ones who would die would be Apollyon and his undead army. Not us.

Not us.

“Wow. Those are some heavy scenes.” Charlene slowly nods as they sink in, and then shakes her head to get her mind on the next topic. “And how is Bridget doing? I understand she still holds a flame for you Jesu. How do you cope with that along with everything that’s going on?”

Ema crosses her arms over her chest. “Yeah, Jesu, how do you cope?”

Jesu shifts in his seat and clears his throat. “Um…not well, I’m afraid.”

Ema snorts.

“Ema, Let’s talk Apollyon. Any plans on how to end him? Or is that classified information?”

Ema glances at the ruby hanging from the silver rose anklet near her shoe. “Uh….”

Charlene follows her gaze and then winks. “Right. Let’s move on… I heard a rumor that I don’t like at all. I bet you can guess what it is too. Would you be willing to elaborate for my readers?”

Ema’s gaze widens and she learns forward. “What rumor?”

Jesu clears his throat. “I think Charlene is referring to us.”

“Us?”

“You know. Us. Our Relationship.”

“Oh. Ohhh… Oh.”

Jesu looks to Charlene. “It’s complicated.”

Charlene quirks her lips, a little annoyed by the evasive answer. “Hmm.”

The doorbell rings and Ema jumps. “What the heck is he doing here?”

Jalmari opens the door and lets himself inside.

“How did you get out?!”

Jalmari glances at Ema and raises one eyebrow. “I was invited.”

“But how did you get out?”

Charlene releases a breathless sigh. Jalmari is, after all, one of her favorite bad boy heart throbs.

“Jalmari, come in, have a seat.”

Jalmari ignores Ema’s question and sinks into an oversized chair opposite his brother.

I’m afraid I don’t have any liqueur, especially the kind you’ve been, um, enjoying as of late. Some blood, maybe?

“No!” Ema and Jesu both yell. Ema smiles and her cheeks warm. “Sorry. My hormones have been very anti-vampyre diet lately.”

Jalmari looks at Charlene and winks. “Let’s keep the blood warm for later.”

Charlene smiles. “Sure, Jalmari. Can I ask you a personal question? Why do you blame Ema for Leena’s death?

“Yeah!”

Jamlari rolls his eyes. “Leena would still be alive if not for Ema. Simple as that.”

“Pfft.”

“Any chance you might find it in your heart to help her and Jesu get to your father?”

“If it benefits me.”

“What would make your life right again? Aside from, um, ending Ema?”

“Ending Ema.”

“Oh, Jalmari.”

Ema whispers to Jesu. “Why is he here again?”

Jesu shrugs.

Charlene leans her elbows to her knees as she faces Jalmari face on. “I hear from a very reliable source that Sarah fancies you. Any chance you might find love?”

Ema sputters. “What the…! Seriously? Oh, I’m going to have a serious girl chat with her!”

Jalmari blinks and his nose scrunches. “Princess Sara? Huh. Hmm.”

“Nope! No! You get that idea out of your head, mister! She is off limits. She can do so much better!” Ema pushes to her feet and flails her arms around. “I’m going to go talk to her right now!”

Jesu stands and nods to Charlene. “It’s been…interesting? Do have us back soon. Maybe without my brother?” He runs off after Ema, who is halfway down the driveway, muttering to herself.

Charlene calls after them. “Well, thank you for being with me today. It’s not often I have my favorite characters visit with me in my home. Please be careful as you head back to Germany. And do give my best to King Nicholas and Valafar!” She turns back to Jalmari with a wink. “Now, Jalmari. How about that glass of blood?”

~ * ~

Ema Marx is in a race against time. Or rather, a race against Apollyon. A powerful weapon—the legendary philosopher’s stone—could tip the scale in favor of whoever gets their fangs on it first. For Ema, obtaining the stone is an uphill battle through love, alliance, heartbreak, and loyalty. Winning should mean the beginning of beautiful things, but the closer Ema gets to her destiny, the more uncertain her future becomes. Could it be this war was never meant for her? And why the heck doesn’t morning sickness adhere to rules of its own name?

Available at AMAZON

About the Author:

J.D. Brown knows that vampires exist because she's dating one and no, he doesn't sparkle. Unfortunately, he's not immortal either (or maybe her standards are too low). A magnet for subcultures and weirdness, J.D. was that socially awkward girl with more fictional friends than real ones. As a child battling a hearing loss and a medical condition with no name, J.D. found comfort in books where strong women always saved the day and got the guy. An obsession with Charmed, Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Heroes lead J.D. to believe that her mutated chromosome made her something more, not something less. Thus her stubborn flare to persevere was born. A lover of fine cuisine, coffee, and shoes, J.D. never understood why shoe stores don't serve Starbucks and soufflé. She resides in Wisconsin were she writes urban fantasy--aka vampires for adults--and has political debates with her dogs. She loves to hear from fans and is active on Facebook.com/AuthorJDBrown.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Amazon Profile | GoodReads Profile

~Giveaway~

One Luck Winner

will receive a FREE thumb drive

with over 100 FREE eBooks

from over 100 different authors

downloaded inside!

Use the Rafflechopter form below to enter. (International entries welcome)

For more prizes and ways to win, join the

DARK BECOMING RELEASE PARTY

on Facebook!

https://www.facebook.com/events/464317960383575/

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Until next time,

May your dreams be magical.

On Sale or You Could Win!

2015-02-11T11:32:00.000-06:00

Gotta share this with all my loves out there! The Transformation of Anna is on sale for a limited time for only .99cents at AMAZON! Just click on < that Amazon on in all caps or on the image below to be brought there. *smile*

ALSO

Aumelan ~ Blessed of the Gods is up for grabs on Goodreads! Enter to win and all we ask is that you leave an honest review of the book there (and on Amazon if you feel so inclined *wink*) The Giveaway ends on February 15th, so get that entry in!

Goodreads Book Giveaway

Blessed of the Gods

by Charlene A. Wilson

Giveaway ends February 15, 2015.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.

Enter to win

Blessed of the Gods is also on Tour right now. So many stops it makes my head spin! You can enter to WIN a $25 Amazon gift card or Paypal cash at any of the tour hosts you visit. So be sure to follow along to catch the excerpts and sneak peeks. *smile*

Blog Tour Schedule

February 10th
I Am A Reader – Guest Post
Diana’s Book Reviews – Review
BookHounds – Interview
Enter Here Canada – Spotlight
Min Reads and Reviews – Spotlight

February 11th
3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy, Too! – Spotlight
Cassandra M’s Place – Spotlight
Coffee Books & Art – Spotlight
Gustosa Giveaways – Spotlight
Sammy’s Book Obsession – Spotlight
Deliciously Savvy – Spotlight

February 12th
Lisa’s Research & Reviews – Review
Beck Valley Books – Spotlight
CBY Book Club – Spotlight
Clever Girls Read – Spotlight
Kaisy Daisy’s Corner – Spotlight
Katie’s Clean Book Collection – Spotlight
StoreyBook Reviews – Spotlight

February 13th
Beppe DM Giveaway – Spotlight
deal sharing aunt – Spotlight
Desafío In The City – Spotlight
Mary’s Cup of Tea – Spotlight
Science Fiction And Such – Spotlight

February 14th
Addicted Readers – Spotlight
Book Lovers Life – Spotlight

February 15th
Indie Author How-to – Review
Mythical Books – Spotlight

February 17th
trips down imagination road – Review
Corazones Literarios – Spotlight
Diane’s Book Blog – Spotlight
Love. Without You – Spotlight

Until next time,

May your dreams be magical.

Savory Sunday~Cool Lime Cheesecake

2015-01-25T21:32:00.001-06:00

How about a yummy and low calorie cheesecake :) This is one of my favorites!
~Blythe, Charlene A Wilson PA

Cool Lime Cheesecake

Ingredients

1 cup(s) graham cracker crumbs
3 Tbsp stick butter or margarine, melted
2 Tbsp sugar
2 pkg(s) (8oz each) reduced fat cream cheese, softened
2/3 cup(s) sugar substitute baking blend or 16 packets sugar substitute
1 egg
2 egg whites
1/2 tsp lime peel, grated
3 Tbsp fresh lime juice

Directions

Combine graham cracker crumbs, butter and 2 tablespoons sugar in bottom of 8" springform pan or 8" cake pan; pat evenly on bottom and ½-inch up side of pan. Bake in preheated 325°F oven 8 minutes.
Beat cream cheese and sugar substitute in medium size bowl until fluffy. Beat in egg, egg whites, lime peel and juice until well blended. Pour cream cheese mixture into prepared crust.
Bake in preheated 325ºF oven 30 to 35 minutes or until center is almost set. Cool on wire rack. Refrigerate at least 3 hours before serving.

Aumelan ~ Blessed of the Gods is HERE!

2015-01-25T17:19:00.001-06:00

Great news!

Aumelan ~ Blessed of the Gods is on the virtual shelves and ready for purchase!

*does the Snoopy dance around Charlene Blogs*

It's been 35 years in the waiting and now has a home at your favorite online book stores. A blog tour is in the planning for February 10-20th, but you all are special. I won't make you wait to get the scoop. *wink* So let's introduce it all proper and such with the blurb, excerpt, and book trailer for you to enjoy!

Aumelan ~ Blessed of the Gods

ISBN: 978-0989984645

Pages: 337 (paperback)

Publisher: Astraea Press

Blurb

The unbelievable just hit Sun City. His name is Chad.

Chad Aumelan is in love, but his world isn't right. Not when he's forbidden to have Dae just because she's his slave.

When Salana Goffin meets Chad, she's faced with the unbelievable: A man who must take energy from a host to survive. He wants to find a cure to free the woman he loves. How can Salana turn away such a noble cause?

Together, they search for answers, but fate has another plan.

Book Trailer

Excerpt

Black clouds morphed across the sky, and Salana pressed her forehead against the third-floor sunroom window. Her hair framed the sides of her face, blocking the view of her indoor garden.

Another storm.

She blinked at the distant trees. Silhouetted by the glow of the city, branches swung as if throwing punches at the wind in a wild frenzy.

And another reason for Mother and Father not to show.

Her breath misted the glass as her whisper fell from her lips. “Then again, when do they ever show?” Flight delays, meetings, vacations… One thing I can count on is their absence.

A thick bolt of lightning pierced the heavens and cut the black sky in half. She blinked several times to disperse the bright image and looked three stories below to the dark grounds. Rain pounded the backyard terrace like silver streams as they reflected the light from the glass sliding doors of the morning room. She could hardly make out the ivory lounges and tables that pocked the area.

Thunder clashed, and the arboretum quaked around her. Placing her finger at the center of the misted glass, she traced a straight line downward until her hand fell to her side. With a sigh, she turned her back on the scene and scanned her garden nook.Black iron trellises stretched around her favorite trio of garden chairs and hourglass stands. The cozy loveseat seemed to invite her to curl up in its overstuffed lap to pout.
She strolled to the flowers and stroked a yellow bud. “But you’ve always been here, haven’t you?”

Plucking the perfect bloom, she sighed and then tucked it behind her ear.

Tip-taps sounded from beyond the nook, and her nanny’s blue quarter-moon eyes peeked around the trellis. Her singsong voice danced off the tip of her tongue. “There you are, Ducky.”

Despite Salana’s gloom, the sweet words warmed her heart. An involuntary twitch tugged the corner of her mouth into a lopsided grin. No matter they never show. Nina’s always here. Always. “There I am.”

“I knew I’d find you among the flowers.” Nina’s hair brushed the shoulder of her paisley-print blouse as she dipped her head to the side. “You know you shouldn’t be up here in such a storm. The news circuits say it’s taking down trees all along the coast. Sun City’s going to get a good pounding.”

Her melodic tone played alongside the heavy rhythm of rain on the solarium roof. “The weather this summer has been so odd. I must say, I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many storms since the flood when you were a little girl.” She sighed. “Needless to say, your mother and father’s flight was canceled. They decided to just stay in North Arba and leave for Crescent Steeple from there. Those caves make for good protection against weather like this. Always wondered what people saw in living beneath the rock, but there you have it. One good reason, anyway.”

“From what I understand, there are a lot more down there than those who live in that bordering city.”

“An odd lot, those deep dwellers, even more odd than the Arbans. But the Arbans did negotiate a treaty of sorts with the Terracians, so...” Nina blinked and upped her fair brows as her voice trailed from the topic. “Well, at any count, you’ll have to stand in for them at the embassy’s quatercentenary celebration this weekend.”

Salana nodded. Nothing new.

“I’ll lay out a nice ceremonial outfit. I assume you won’t be wearing the Terracian medallion for this one. Senator Kelborn and all the opposition leaders will be there, you know.” She glanced to the side. “Your father had doubts they’d show, considering all the territories were invited. Good thing the Terracians turned down the invite after all. But, you won’t want to stir things up…”

Salana held up her hand to get a word in—a gesture she’d found the most effective when talking with Nina. “I’m wearing the medallion. I’ve worn it to every official gathering I’ve ever attended.”

“Oh, but, Ducky. In this case, you could be shunned for taking that kind of stand. You’re not a child. You’ll be nineteen, come winter, and that’s well into accountability age. It won’t be overlooked.”

Folding her arms, Salana cocked her hip to the side, allowing her long hair to brush her backside. “If Mother were to be there, she’d be the one taking the stand simply by being who she is. She’d be shunned, but would stand tall.”

“It would be a simple shunning. Not that any shunning is seen as simple, really, but she has no choice of who she is.”

Salana filled her lungs with the floral-scented air to control her response. “Nina, I’m Terracian, too.”

She paused as the fact sent warmth to her cheeks. When had she taken that as truth? It had been a shock when her parents shared that bit of information after her ninth birthday. Her heart swelled and she fingered the neckline of her sweater where the three interconnected circles of her medallion would rest. Such a special moment it had been when her mother adorned her with the medallion of womanhood in pure Terrace Well tradition.

That’s when I took it as truth.

“You were born Sun Nation. Just like your father. You have a choice in what you decide to represent.”

With a deliberate blink, Salana allowed her tone to make it clear the conversation ended. “I’m wearing my medallion.”

Nina’s thin lips bent into a sweet smile. Her slow tip-taps crossed the sitting area, and she lifted her hand, combing the strands from Salana’s face. “Of course you are. I’ll weave your hair early that morning so it won’t appear too tight by the celebration. The gold clips to hold your Daughter of the Nation brow band in place?”

“Sure.”

Lightning streaked above the glass ceiling, and a web of strobes flashed across the sky. Thunder clashed, shaking palms and ivory around them. Familiar loneliness woke in Salana’s heart with a start.

They won’t be showing…again.

“Then let’s get you down to your room. You need to get a good night’s sleep, and my heart needs to know you won’t stay up here in all of this.”

With a nod, Salana followed her through the aisles of blooms. Twangs of isolation accompanied her, but the small hope of another visitor kept them at bay.

As Nina reached to turn off the light, she glanced over her shoulder. “Oh, and Thomey called just before I came up. He won’t be making it tonight. All that work at the lab, you know.”

Salana lowered her gaze with a silent sigh, hope crushed.

Of course he won’t.

Get yours today! Like I said, it's everywhere...

Buy links:

Amazon: http://bit.ly/BOG-k

B&N: http://bit.ly/BOG-n

Kobo: http://bit.ly/BOG-kobo

Smashwords: http://bit.ly/BOG-smash

iTunes: http://bit.ly/BOG-itune

Paperback: http://bit.ly/BOG-pb

Author site: http://CharleneAWilson.com/order/

Until next time,

May your dreams be magical.

Savory Sunday~ Strawberry Angel Food Cake

2015-01-11T16:20:00.002-06:00

Hey y'all! Sorry I haven't gotten a Savory Sunday up in a few weeks. A lot has been going on and I haven't been able to be online much but that is changing now :) I though today we would go for a nice easy sweet treat as our recipe for today. So without further ado, Strawberry Angel Food Cake!
~Blythe, Charlene A. Wilson PA

Ingredients

1/4 cup(s) water
2 tsp cornstarch
4 cup(s) frozen unsweetened strawberries, thawed
2 tsp honey
1/2 loaf angel food cake

Directions

Mix water and cornstarch.
In a small saucepan, blend strawberries and cornstarch mixture.
Add honey.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and cool completely.
To serve, slice cake into 6 equal pieces.
Lay cake slices on 6 individual dessert plates.
Drizzle 1/3 cup strawberry sauce over each slice.

So, what's your super power...?

2014-12-26T00:30:00.000-06:00

As you know, I’m published through Astraea Press. Stephanie Taylor is the boss lady and with permission of my sweet friend, Heather Gray, I’m going to share a post that she shared on our author loop. While it obviously points at AP and Stephanie, so much of it could be for all authors out there. Do enjoy, and thank you Heather for allowing me to spread your words. *smile*

So, what's your super power...?

I got a box today. Thankfully, it was wrapped in plastic when it got dropped off. (What ever happened to knocking on the door and handing the package to a real live person...?)

I digress...

I've been working on these Headtalker campaigns, and when it's time to describe the publisher, I've been saying something like this: "Astraea Press is a publisher that enjoys giving new authors a voice..." That's not a perfect description (nor the whole description), but you get the idea. (I say "new and established authors" if it's an author that's got a backlist.) Anyway... (again w/ the digressing) ...

I got a box today. I opened it up, and you know what was inside? Books! My books! And while I know the money isn't in print sales, there's still a thrill at holding one of my own books in my hands. And today, doing so got me to thinking about super powers...
I haven't figured out my super power yet. I'm debating between sarcasm and over-organization. I'm really good at drinking coffee, too.

And snoring.

I do know Stephanie Taylor's super power, though. She turns writers into authors, and she makes dreams come true.

Being an author isn't easy. There's criticism, selfdoubt, constant comparison, etc. Just when we think we've become our own worst enemy, somebody gives us a review that makes us want to hide in a dark corner and rock back and forth while sucking our thumb. We grow from that, though, even if some days that growth is measured only in the thickness of our skin. And it eventually balances out. We keep it at, we hone our craft, we work hard, and we get better. We put out more books, we get more reviews, and then the moment comes when someone tweets their squee moment of the day...meeting their favorite author.

And we're tagged in the tweet. Sure, we have to read it a dozen times before it sinks in and we realize who they're talking about...but still. What a moment.

The thing is, if somebody didn't give us that first chance, none of the rest would follow. The bad reviews that make us work harder, the editor comments that make us better writers, the good reviews that make us want to keep going, and the chance we have to do it all over again none of that would happen if nobody ever took a chance on us to begin with.

I know that not everybody with AP is a first-time author, but I also know that a lot of us are (or were). And so, while I'm all filled with holiday sentimentality and glowing with the joy of holding my own book, I want to say thank you to Stephanie Taylor for using her super power for good instead of evil.

Want to get to know Heather better? Look her up. She's all around the web!

Website: http://www.heathergraywriting.com/
Twitter handle: @LaughDreamWrite
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heather.gray.1029

Grilled Balsamic and Grapefruit Glazed Salmon~Savory Sunday

2014-12-14T15:19:00.002-06:00

Its that time of the week again! New recipes for y'all to try out!

~Blythe, Charlene A. Wilson's PA

Grilled Balsamic and Grapefruit Glazed Salmon

Ingredients

1 cup(s) freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 Tbsp brown sugar
4 salmon fillets, 6-ounces each
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
8 grapefruits slices, 1/2-inch thick, 1 1/2-oz each

Directions

Combine grapefruit juice, balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in medium saucepan.
Boil until reduced by half, approximately 15 minutes.
Hold warm.
Season each side of salmon fillet with 1/16 teaspoon salt and 1/16 teaspoon pepper.
Grill salmon, presentation side down, until just done in center, about 5 minutes per side, depending on thickness of fillet.
Brush salmon with 1 tablespoon grapefruit glaze during grilling and just before removing from grill.
Place 2 grapefruit slices on serving plate and top with cooked salmon fillet.
Drizzle 1 tablespoon glaze on top of salmon.

Tell me if y'all tried it! And if y'all have any requests let me know :)

~Blythe, Charlene A. Wilson PA

Savory Sunday~ Thai Shrimp Pasta Salad

2014-12-07T14:01:00.001-06:00

Its that time of the week again! New recipes for y'all to try out! This Sunday I am giving y'all the recipe to Thai Shrimp Pasta Salad!
~Blythe, Charlene A. Wilson's PA

Thai Shrimp Pasta Salad

Ingredients

6 ounce(s) farfalle (bow tie pasta), uncooked
1 lb(s) unpeeled medium-size fresh shrimp
2 tsp hot chile oil
2 tsp commercial roasted garlic, minced
1/2 cup(s) low-fat spicy Indonesian dressing
1 cup(s) green pepper, cut into strips
1/4 tsp freshly ground pepper
1 (15 oz) can straw mushrooms, drained
8 lime wedges (optional)

Directions

Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain; rinse with cold water, and drain again. Place pasta in a large bowl; set aside.
Peel and devein shrimp. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add shrimp and garlic; sauté 3 minutes or until shrimp turn pink. Add dressing to skillet, deglazing skillet by scraping particles that cling to bottom. Stir in green pepper, ground pepper and mushrooms. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 2 minutes.
Add shrimp mixture to pasta; toss lightly. Serve warm or chilled. Garnish with lime wedges, if desired.

Cover Reveal ~ Aumelan, Blessed of the Gods

2014-12-07T09:15:00.002-06:00

I have great news!

Aumelan, Blessed of the Gods, is slated for release in January 2015, and I got the cover! Of course, I'm excited to share it with you. Sweet!

Chad Aumelan is in love, but his world isn't right. Not when he's forbidden to have Dee just because she's his slave.

When Salana Goffin meets Chad, she's faced with the unbelievable: A man who must take energy from a host to survive. He wants to find a cure to free the woman he loves. How can Salana turn away such a noble cause?

Together, they search for answers, but fate has another plan.

A story of love, devotion, and courage, Aumelan introduces us to a world where hearts and souls unite to ensure freedom is a gift for all and love between peoples is possible.

I can't wait for this story to be available for everyone. It's been in my head since I was 15. That's right, 15! Now that's got to be a record. Lol!

Until next time,

May your dreams be magical.

Savory Sunday~ Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Soup

2014-11-30T10:20:00.000-06:00

Hey y'all! As the seater gets cold I always love to pull out my fall recipes. Now here in Texas its still quite warm but I though it would be nice for those who live in the more chilly climates right now. This is one of my favorite things to make so I hope you try it out and enjoy!
~Blythe, Charlene A. Wilson's PA

Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp dried tarragon

3 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into 1/2 inch pieces

3 cups carrots, chopped

3 cups small mushrooms, quartered, about 1/2 pound

4 cups chicken broth

1 tsp hot-pepper sauce

4 oz dry, chiocciole or any small pasta

1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Directions:

1. Combine flour, salt, and tarragon in a bowl. Add the chicken and toss to coat.

2. Lightly coat the bottom of a 4 to 5 quart pot with cooking spray. Add the oil and place over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring frequently, 5 minuets, or until lightly browned and no longer pink on the inside. Remove chicken and set aside.

3. Stir in carrots, mushrooms, broth, hot-pepper sauce, and bring to a simmer. Cover and simmer for 15 minuets, string occasionally.

4. Stir in the pasta and reserved chicken and cook for 12 minuets

Savory Sunday~One Day Late

2014-11-24T10:11:00.001-06:00

Hey guys, Blythe here Charlene's PA. I totally dropped the ball on getting y'all your Savory Sunday post but I'm here today to give y'all one! This is my absolute favorite holiday drink ever. I hope you enjoy and let us know if you tried it out.
~Blythe

Todays recipe is:

Starbucks Peppermint Mocha Recipe

Ingredients

1/4 cup of sugar
1/4 cup of water
3 teaspoons peppermint extract
3 tablespoons powered cocoa
3 tablespoons warm water
1/2 cup hot espresso
1.5 cups steamed milk

Directions:

1) Stir water and sugar in pot until sugar dissolves and bring to a boil

2) Reduce heat to a low simmer and add 1.5 teaspoons of peppermint extract

3) Allow mixture to simmer for 20 minuets

4) Mix coco and water in a cup until paste is formed

5) Add expresso and 1.5 teaspoons of peppermint extract

6) Add milk and serve immediately

Where I got this recipe today:

http://www.thedallassocials.com/blog/starbucks-holiday-drink-recipes/

Watch for My Interview on The Authors Show!

2014-11-21T19:32:00.001-06:00

My interview with Linda Thompson of the Author Show went absolutely marvelously. She is such a gracious hostess, made me feel right at home as we talked about common ground near where she lives in Phoenix. We had a great chat before we settled down for the interview.

As the Author Show is pre-recorded, I just found out when it will go live. The magic date is December 1st! Be sure to check in and listen anytime that day. She asked some very engaging questions and made them easy to answer.

We discussed the Cornerstone Deep series, but I was able to share what else I've published and what's to come! Very excited to share this interview with you all~

Until next time,

May your dreams be magical.

First review of Aumelan ~ Blessed of the Gods

2014-11-12T03:58:00.001-06:00

It's always exciting when someone reads your story and not only loves, but gets it. In January, I'll be launching a new series called Aumelan.

Aumelan ~ Blessed of the Gods

Chad Aumelan is in love, but his world isn't right. Not when he's forbidden to have Dee just because she's his slave.

When Salana Goffin meets Chad, she's faced with the unbelievable: A man who must take energy from a host to survive. He wants to find a cure to free the woman he loves. How can Salana turn away such a noble cause?

Together, they search for answers, but fate has another plan.

I haven't exactly been quiet about Aumelan, I've posted a teaser or two. Considering, I should be shouting it from the rooftops. From conception to published is right around 35 years. That's right you read correctly. 35.

So when I got my first review, I wanted to bear hug this person. While the stories I've written so far have fallen right smack into the Romance genre first, Aumelan would probably hit Sci-fi/Fantasy with romantic elements. The plot doesn't hinge on the hero and the heroine being together. The story goes on whether that happy fact exists or not. So that being said, expect some twists and unexpected turns.

Anyway, I gotta share this review with you. Thank you, Jennifer Brown. I'm glad you loved book 1. I'm working on book 2, World Beneath the Rock, right now while it's in the final stages of publication.

What they’re saying:

“Aumelan is much more than a love story. Ms. Wilson has crafted a masterpiece in which she closely examines the human condition: How far will we go as a society to survive? How far will we go as individuals for compassion? The literary genus is covertly wrapped in a delicious genre romance where readers are submerged in the lives of her characters and the fantastic sci-fi backdrop of their imperfect world. Make no mistake, Aumelan may easily become a classic to transcend time. A definite recommended read!”

~Jennifer Brown

Until next time,

May your dreams be magical.

Are We Ready For The Holiday Recipes?

2014-10-12T22:00:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again, my loves, when all the great food and recipes come out of those cookbooks. And I'm back with the weekly shares to make your holidays buzz with happy tummies!

This year, I'm going with Savory Sunday, so all foods are apt to be shared right here on Charlene Blogs. *big smile*

We're starting off with a luscious Creamy Pumpkin soup, thanks to Woman&Home.com*.

This is healthy vegetarian soup to warm those hearts and tummies, and according to W&H, it's great for kicking those colds and burning that fat!

Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 mins
Cooking time: 25 mins
Total time: 40 mins
Calories: 108 per serving
Freeze: yes
Prepare ahead: yes

INGREDIENTS

1 onion, finely chopped
2 to 3 fat red chilies, deseeded (if you don't like it too hot) and diced
2 lemongrass stalks, finely chopped
18fl oz vegetable broth
1lb 9oz pumpkin (or butternut squash) flesh, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
7fl oz reduced-fat coconut milk

PREPARATION

In a large non-stick pan gently cook the onion, chilies and lemongrass in 1 to 2tbsp of the broth for 5 minutes to soften.
Add the pumpkin and carrot and cook for a further 5 minutes before adding the remaining vegetable broth and coconut milk.
Bring to the boil, cover and let simmer for 15 minutes or until very tender. Blend until smooth and garnish with chilies to serve.

*Get this recipe and more at Woman&Home.com!

Until next time,

May your dreams be magical.

Freeness Is Going Around!

2014-09-27T16:30:00.000-05:00

After the big Goodreads giveaway of The Transformation of Anna last month, I didn't expect to have another Free moment for a while. But with Aumelan coming out in January and Destiny slated for May, we're pushing promotion of one of my favorite titles to give everyone a chance to fall in love with the characters who've stole my heart. Watch out, they'll steal yours too! Lol.

So, from now until Midnight October 4th, The Transformation of Anna will be free to download in any e-version your reader requires. No reader? No problem! It's available in PDF also, so you can read it on your computer. *smile*

And let me take a moment to THANK YOU ALL for your support and love. Without you, my stories wouldn't be half as much fun to write. I love sharing my worlds with you!

Until next time,

May your dreams be magical.

Goodreads Giveaway Coming to a Close!!

2014-09-03T20:44:00.001-05:00

The Goodreads Giveaway for 5 copies of The Transformation of Anna is counting down to close! Have you entered yet?

Goodreads Book Giveaway

The Transformation of Anna

by Charlene A. Wilson

Giveaway ends September 05, 2014.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.

Enter to win

Good Luck!!

Multi-Author Giveaway!‏

2014-08-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

On August 18th from 10 am-10 pm. It's a Multi-Author Giveaway, hosted by JS Cooper!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good Luck!!!

Big Giveaways On the Way!

2014-07-31T22:04:00.001-05:00

Gotta let you all know! We have a great evening of fun with some amazing authors going on tonight! Join us for the Saints & Sinners Facebook Event. It all starts at 5:00pm (cst). See you there!

August 1st and 2nd ONLY download The Transformation of Anna from Amazon FREE!!

And get ready to enter to win your own paperback copy of The Transformation of Anna! Beginning August 5th, a Goodreads Giveaway will be taking entries and I'll be giving away 5 signed copies of book one in the Cornerstone Deep series!

Goodreads Book Giveaway

The Transformation of Anna

by Charlene A. Wilson

Giveaway ends September 05, 2014.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.

Enter to win

GOOD LUCK!

All New Kindle Fire HDX 7" Giveaway

2014-06-16T15:33:00.001-05:00

Enter to win 1 of 2 great prizes. Winner’s choice of a Kindle Fire HDX or $229 Amazon Gift Card or $229 Paypal Cash! The first prize is available via the rafflecopter below. The 2nd is available only to bloggers who post about this giveaway. You can find info on how to enter the 2nd giveaway in the
rafflecopter.

Win a Kindle Fire HDX, Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash ($229 value)

All New Kindle Fire HDX 7" Giveaway

The winner will have the option of receiving a 7" Kindle Fire HDX (US Only - $229 Value)

Or $229 Amazon.com Gift Card (International)

Or $229 in Paypal Cash (International)

Sponsors

Giveaway Details

1 winner will receive their choice of an all new Kindle Fire 7" HDX (US Only - $229 value), $229 Amazon Gift Card or $229 in Paypal Cash (International). There is a second separate giveaway for bloggers who post this giveaway on their blog. See details in the rafflecopter on how to enter to win the 2nd Kindle Fire HDX 7", $229 Amazon Gift Card or $229 in Paypal Cash. Ends 7/15/14 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the participating authors & bloggers. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good Luck!

Aumelan Character Sketch

2014-06-03T02:59:00.001-05:00

A while back we had a little photo shoot with some fantastic young people who are excited about my new series, Aumelan. We had a lot of fun, and I'm excited to share the first skit with you. I hope you enjoy this sneak peek into the world of Aumelan, starring Dee, Losette, Iolet, and a just a tad bit of Tara. *smile*

Dee: How did things go while I was in the World of the Sun with Chad, Losette?

Losette: Oh, Dee, I helped a lot! Iolet made Mistress Tarah's special cream desert when Master Tyro and Master Styne came for dinner.

Losette: She let me take the bread out of the oven and place it on a plate. Then I had a thought to make the desert even more special! I put the bread pan on the pie's creamy top like a hat. Oh, Dee, it was so funny! It went slippy slide to the side!

Losette: Mistress Tara was not happy with me.

Dee: Oh, Losette.

Iolet: Losette does not belong in the kitchen, for sure.

Dee: I think it is best for you to stick to cleaning, Losette.

Until next time, may your dreams be magical.

Charlene

Extra! Extra! April 2014 Newsletter Out!

2014-04-07T09:45:00.000-05:00

* Updates * Giveaways * Appearances * Events * News *

Another month has passed and that means it's time for another Charlene A. Wilson and Highlighted Author Updates Newsletter! Those of you who've signed up to receive them already should have them in your trusty Inboxes. *smile* If you haven't signed up for them yet, I invite you to subscribe now. The signup form is right in my sidebar there.

You're welcome to

READ ONLINE HERE

and enjoy.

* Updates * Giveaways * Appearances * Events * News *

Until next time, may your dreams be magical.

One for Kami Book Trailer

2014-03-22T13:41:00.000-05:00

Life has been sending my head into a whirl lately and I have to apologize for not sharing with you guys for such a long time! I'm so sorry! But, I'll get it together and hop back on the blogging highway soon.

One for Kami as been doing great, and I just got the completed book trailer from the very talented Opal Campbell. And, of course, I gotta share!!

Feel free to share it with your friends! *big smile*

Until next time, may your dreams be magical.

Charlene