Friday 29 March 2013

Book Spotlight: Victory of the Divine Queen by Jerome Brooke

Victory of the Divine Queen
by Jerome Brooke
Fantasy
Part of the Divine Astarte Series
Available from amazon

Blurb:

Victory of the Divine Queen is a collection of the histories of Orpheus, Lord of the Spring. At the command of Astarte, the Divine Queen, Orpheus leads the Imperial Legions of the Dark Empire into Battle. Other editions of this book appear under the titles Astarte, the Great Queen and Orpheus Victorious. The Queen is also served by Apion, the Beast Man. Apion is the Alpha Male of the Hell Born, who terrorize the subjects of Astarte. Orpheus must war against rebels, while holding in check the horrid forces of the Empire.

Excerpt:

The sun rose over the barren hills on the horizon. I rode down the narrow trial towards the sea in the far distance. The path led me to a desert valley. I reined in my horse, seeing a woman riding towards me - with three riders in pursuit of her. I spurred forward towards the riders pursing the lone woman, leveling my lance.


"Cowards!" I cried. My lance caught one of the men as he tried to wheel his horse, causing him to lose his saddle. I rode past the others and drew my sword. One of the raiders closed with me, swinging a mace. I cut under his guard and into his arm.

I rode past the wounded man and traded blows with the third rider. I grasped his reins and cut them with my blade, leaving him helpless. The man spurred his horse, fleeing for his life. He was followed by his comrade. The first man had regained his horse, and also decided to make good his escape. The woman had halted ahead on the trial. She returned and greeted me.

"My Lord, I thank you!" the woman cried.

"Orpheus - I am called Orpheus," I said to her...      

   
About the Author:

Jerome Brooke lives in the Kingdom of Siam. Jerome is the consort of Jira, a princess of the lost Kingdom of Nan. He is a retired attorney. He has served as City Attorney for Ellettsville, Indiana. He has written The City of the Mirage (Books to Go Now) and many other books.




http://bookstogonow.com/circleofstone.html
http://runesofthebard.wordpress.com
http://cityofthemirage.wordpress.com
and http://astarterules.wordpress.com (fan blog)

Thursday 28 March 2013

Author Interview & Giveaway: Shanae Branham





About the Author:

I am a professional writer with a bachelor's degree in creative writing and a minor in grammar. I have also attended several years of classes and workshops in screenplay writing at the Los Angeles Screenplay writer's Expo.


I love suspense thrillers and am a master at plot and character development. I enjoy stories with happy endings. I promise all my readers that when they put one of my books down or walk away from one of my movies, they will be enthused with excitement and joy. This does not mean there will not be some sad parts, because you have to feel the bitter in order to understand the sweet.

I was born and raised in a small town in Idaho. I am the second out of six children. When I was in my early 20's my mother was killed by a drunk driver. This one incident drastically changed my life. I have always had a passion for reading and writing fiction. Owing to a life long struggle with Dyslexia, early teachers discouraged me from pursuing a career in writing.

As I have spent over twenty years wrestling with my language disabilities-turning them into professional writing skills, God has honed my insatiable passion into an incredible vision.

My Christian upbringing has instilled within me the belief that "...with God nothing shall be impossible" (Luke 1:37). This has sustained me through the hard times. Because of my language disability, I have had to learn the structure of the English language like other people learn math - building block upon building block.

I am grateful for this experience because it developed in me a skill and love for diagramming sentences, which unfortunately is becoming a lost art.

I want my life to be a living testament that with God's help anyone can achieve their worthwhile dreams. What God requires is the humility to change, a childlike teach-ability to learn, and the patience and persistence to practice and work until their weaknesses are transformed into strengths.

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15831883-disemblance
http://disemblance.com/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/DiSemblance/193847093968586
https://twitter.com/Disemblance

Do you plan everything or just let the story flow?


When I write a novel, I plan an outline that follows screenplay story rules.

Do your characters ever want to take over the story?

Yes. The story is all about them.

What is your favorite food?

Pizza

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

Morning person

Where do you dream of travelling to and why?

A tropical bungalow getaway. I love the ocean and hot sun to relax.

Do distant places feature in your books?

Since DiSemblance could be classified as science fiction because it portrays what would happen if a hologram machine was invented, I chose to keep the setting close to home and familiar. That way it feels more believable.

Do you listen to music while writing?

Yes. I chose a song that relates emotionally to what the character is going through and listen to it over and over again.

Could you tell us a bit about your latest release?


DiSemblance is a young adult, techno-thriller novel.

As a computer prodigy, Jason has spent his life with limited social contact due to his father’s secretive work on a hologram machine that can create digital immortality. When his father is murdered and framed as the Comfort Killer, Jason is targeted as the killer’s new fall guy. Having spent much of his youth living in the virtual world his father created, he must now go on the run if he is going to save himself, his brother, and the beautiful girl next door.

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

So much sometimes I think my brain might explode!

Is there anything you would do differently?

No.

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

Reading the book, The Success Principles by Jack Canfield

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

Don’t be afraid to rewrite. Rewriting is one of the greatest ways of learning to improve your craft. Read, read, read! Reading patterns the brain and helps your find tools for your writing toolbox.

What are three words that describe you?

Determined, creative, compassionate

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

The Hunger Games by Susan Collins

Blurb of your latest release or coming soon book.

DiSemblance sets the stage for three more books. I am currently working on the second book, Boston’s Quest. …Someone has hooked the hologram machine up to the internet and is forcing kidnapped victims to fight for their lives inside an online computer game.

I love to blog about the current book I am writing. You can check it out at http://disemblance.com

List of previous books if any

DiSemblance is my first published work.


DiSemblance

by Shanae Branham
Genre: Techno-thriller/YA
Subgenres: Sci-fi, suspense, mystery, paranormal
ISBN: ISBN-10: 1477527761
ISBN-13: 978-1477527764
Number of pages: 272 pages
Word Count: 55, 894

Book Description:

Jason Tanner lives between two worlds. Problem is, only one is real.

As a computer prodigy, Jason has spent his life with limited social contact due to his father’s secretive work on a hologram machine that can create digital immortality. When his father is murdered and framed as the Comfort Killer, Jason is targeted as the killer’s new fall guy. Having spent much of his youth living in the virtual world his father created, he must now go on the run if he is going to save himself, his brother, and the beautiful girl next door.

An exciting, action-packed ride to a future happening today, Shanae Branham's modern techno thriller is the perfect exhilarating adrenaline rush for a technosavvy generation. Expertly weaving cutting-edge technology with almost unbearable suspense, she crafts a wild, white-knuckled thriller that pushes the boundaries of science. Full of intensity and extraordinary vision, DiSemblance attacks the senses as it challenges the mind and imagination.

Branham does a brilliant job creating suspense….She ramps up the tension by keeping readers guessing over the identities of Jason’s foes and about how Jason’s situation ties in with the hunt for the killer.”

Jason’s love for his father and his motivation to find out what happened to him are particularly refreshing.”

"The characters of Jason and Isaac are … cool enough to rise to the occasion … making readers feel like they are rooting for real young men.”~ Jill Allen, Clarion Review (4 Stars)

DiSemblence is available from amazon in paperback and kindle formats



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Wednesday 27 March 2013

Author Interview: Kinley Baker





About the Author:

Kinley Baker has a terminally tender heart and an inconvenient sense of humor. She loves puppies and cries at celebrity weddings. Kinley believes that romance novels are the keys to world peace, because if you're holding a book, you can't be holding a gun. Kinley supports all supernatural lifestyles and believes "happy ever after" isn't only for the normal. Her books Ruined, Denied and Freed are available now from Crescent Moon Press. Excuse My Fairy is available now from Etopia Press. Look for more in the Misbehaving Magics series and the final book in the Shadowed Love trilogy in 2013.

www.kinleybaker.com
http://kinleybaker.wordpress.com
www.twitter.com/kinleybaker
www.facebook.com/kinleybaker
www.facebook.com/authorkinleybaker
www.goodreads.com/kinleybaker
    Do you plan everything or just let the story flow?  
A little bit of both. And it really depends on the story. In my latest book, Endured, which is the third book in the Shadowed Love trilogy, I knew how the story was going to end for a long time before I could get it on the page. It’s different every time.

Do your characters ever want to take over the story?

All the time!

What is your favourite food?

Jalapeno chips.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

I’m an afternoon napper. Lol. I get up early for work, so I go to bed pretty early.

Where do you dream of travelling to and why?

Ireland. I have no idea why. I’m just supposed to go there someday.

Do distant places feature in your books?

My first series is about the Realm of Shadows. My second series is in an alternate realm named Bamzar. I guess it’s about alternate worlds rather than distant places like we think of on Earth.

Do you listen to music while writing?

Yes! All different kinds.Anything from classical to Lady Gaga to Eminem, and all the shades in-between.

Could you tell us a bit about your latest release?

Excuse My Fairy is about a feisty little fairy and her sexy Lawman mate. It’s an adventure with a fun cast of characters.

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

Oh wow! So much. I can’t even begin to describe it all. I’ve learned that a story that makes me smile is worth every penny. And I hope to write stories that make other people smile or laugh.

Is there anything you would do differently?

Overall, probably not. I’ve made mistakes and I wish things had gone differently in some regards, but it all ended up here. We’re stronger for our trials.

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

My mother. She always encourages me and reads my work.

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

Read a lot. Write a lot! Follow your favorite authors online and observe what they do.

What are three words that describe you?

Strange, Romantic, Shy

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

I love Nalini Singh!

Blurb of your latest release or coming soon book:


Excuse my Fairy
by Kinley Baker
Parnormal Romnce
Etopia Press
Available from amazon | allromance |

Her magic breaks all the rules. He breaks all of hers.


Draybeth is broken. Her fairy powers don’t work, her magic is completely dysfunctional, and not even her bad attitude and soft heart can win her back into Fairy favor. Exiled from their land, she struggles to make a life for herself in the human world. But when her bar burns to the ground and she meets one of the Impassables--the devastating Lawman Barrett--things become even more of a struggle. An arrest, murder, and abduction challenge everything she’s worked for, and worse, the Impassable Lawman appears to be her destined mate. But darkness stirs deep within Dray’s heart, and she’s not about to drag the gorgeous lawman down with her.

Barrett never expected to find himself mated to a fairy, let alone one with such a wicked temper and a short fuse. Being an Impassable, he should be immune to fairy magic, but Dray’s magic burns through him like lightning, just as everything else about her ignites him, body and soul. The fairy’s power over Impassables threatens everything this new realm was built upon, and as a Lawman, Barrett’s job is to make sure those threats are eliminated. But his feelings for Dray make him question just where his duty lies.

Warning for adults 18+ contains a high heat level of sexiness and swearing

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16282631-excuse-my-fairy

List of previous books if any

My previous books are Ruined, Denied, and Freed. Endured will be coming this year!

Any websites/places readers can find you on the web.

I love to talk to people on my blog at http://kinleybaker.wordpress.com

Book Spotlight and Giveaway: Heels and Heroes by Tiffany Allee




Title: Heels and Heroes
Author: Tiffany Allee
Genre: Superhero Romance, Paranormal Romance, Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Decadent
Format: Ebook
Length: 27,000 words
79 Pages Available from: amazonb&n | decadent website

Brenda is a second-rate superhero, normally more concerned with uniform fashion than defeating bad guys. But when a violent, new super villain declares war against her city, she suddenly finds her specialized power to deafen sound in high demand.

As if facing the destructive force of a new enemy isn’t bad enough, she finds herself paired with the powerful, yet emotionally distant, Justice. Forced to work at the side of the only man who gets her heart pounding, Brenda is not only in danger of losing her life in battle, but also her heart to a man who might not be able to love her back.

About the Author:

CPA-turned-romance-author Tiffany Allee used to battle spreadsheets in Corporate America, and now concentrates on her characters’ battles to find love. Raised in small-town Colorado, Tiffany currently lives in Phoenix, AZ, by way of Chicago and Denver. She is happily married to a secret romantic who tolerates her crazy mutterings.

She writes about ass-kicking heroines and the strong heroes who love them. Her work includes the suspense-driven From the Files of the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency series which revolves around a group of paranormal cops solving crimes and finding love, and Don’t Bite the Bridesmaid, a lighthearted paranormal romance (Entangled Publishing).

Tiffany has an MBA in accounting and nearly a decade of experience in corporate finance. All super useful stuff for a writer who spends far too much time trying to figure out fun ways to keep her characters apart, and interesting ways to kill people (for her books—of course!).

website | facebook | twitter | goodreads

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Tuesday 26 March 2013

Author Interview: B R Kingsolver





About the Author:

I made silver and turquoise jewelry for almost a decade, ended up in nursing school, then took a master’s in business. Along the way I worked in construction, as a newspaper editor, a teacher, and somehow found a career working with computers.


I love the outdoors, especially the Rocky Mountains. I’ve skied since high school and I’ve hiked and camped all my life. I love to travel, though I haven’t done enough of it. I’ve seen a lot of Russia and Mexico, not enough of England. Amsterdam is amazing, and the Romanian Alps are breathtaking. Lake Tahoe is a favorite, and someday I’d like to see Banff in Canada.

I have a very significant other, two cats and two Basset Hounds. I’m currently living in Baltimore, nine blocks from the harbor, but still own a home in New Mexico that I see too infrequently.

Twitter: @BRKINGSOLVER
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/brkingsolver
Web site: http://brkingsolver.com/
    Do you plan everything or just let the story flow?

I create an outline, but it’s just the major plot points. Often the story takes on a life of its own and I let the characters determine how it manifests.

Do your characters ever want to take over the story?

My characters always take over the story. They each have their own personality, and I try to let them be themselves. I think if an author tries to force the characters, they don’t come across to the reader as living beings. Too many characters in novels are two dimensional. All of my characters have their own personalities and back stories.

What is your favourite food?


It depends on my mood. I love seafood, but I also love steak and lamb. I like food. Well-prepared food. But I’m also happy with an apple and a slice of cheese.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

I hate mornings, but I’ve had to get up early to go to work for so long that I’m usually falling asleep by 10 pm. If left to my own devices, I’d stay up late and wake up late.

Where do you dream of travelling to and why?

So many places ... Europe, Australia, Canada. I want to see everything I’ve ever read about. I want to see the castles of Europe, and do a seafood tour of the Mediterranean. I love to hike and ski, love the mountains, but I also like fine food and architecture.

Do distant places feature in your books?

My books are primarily set in Baltimore, Washington, and West Virginia. But I’ve also taken my characters to San Francisco, England, Ireland, Amsterdam, France, and Ecuador. I haven’t been to all those places, but I love doing the research on them, and hope to go there someday.

Do you listen to music while writing?

Not usually. Often I have the TV on as background noise, and if there’s a show with good music I’ll listen to it. I tend to like the quiet.

Could you tell us a bit about your latest release?


Succubus Rising is the third book in the Telepathic Clans Saga. Brenna O’Donnell is the wealthiest, most beautiful telepathic succubus in the world, and she’s only 24. Her best friend and bodyguard is Rebecca Healy. Brenna has found her soul mate, Collin, but Rebecca seems to always be looking for someone. Brenna starts work as a congressional lobbyist in Washington, and meets a handsome general from Ecuador. Although they have a brief fling, Brenna is truly in love with Collin. But Carlos and Rebecca circle around each other, attracted but wary. When Carlos approaches Brenna about an alliance between his Clan and hers, he and Rebecca find themselves together more than is comfortable for either of them. But the alliance leads to war with the other South American Clans.

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

An incredible amount. I’ve learned that I can write easily, though not often well. My books have required a lot of editing and revising to make it into print. But people like my stories, and I have a great group that has helped me to make the stories readable. I’ve also found that self publishing is easy. Promotion is hard. When I first tried to publish, I discovered that my novel didn’t fit into any of the standard categories or genres. That’s when I first heard the term New Adult. Luckily, there are readers who are looking for something “new and different”, and are willing to take a chance on a new author.

Is there anything you would do differently?

Not a lot. I would give Brenna more flaws and less power. I certainly learned that a character who is too powerful is difficult.

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


There have been a lot of influences. Richelle Meade and Marion Zimmer Bradley influenced the creation of the world in the Telepathic Clans. But I have always read voraciously. Tolstoy, Steinbeck, Heinlein, Andrea Norton, Cherryh, Nora Roberts are just a few of my favorites. I’ve also spent most of my working life editing other peoples’ writing. I’ve worked as a newspaper editor, edited two textbooks, and written and edited in the business world.

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

Find a good editor. No one is qualified to edit their own work. You read what is supposed to be there, not what is really there. Awkward sentence structures, confusing descriptions, poor word choices are inherent in the writing process. You need someone else to point them out.

What are three words that describe you?

Introverted, cynical, and optimistic.

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

I don’t think I can cite a favorite. I’ve read so much. I think one should read widely. I read science fiction, fantasy, urban fantasy, mysteries, history, biographies and occasionally what is called “literary fiction”.

Blurb of your latest release or coming soon book


Book 3 of the Telepathic Clans Saga, Succubus Rising

The Goddess has plans for Brenna and Rebecca, and the Goddess has a wicked sense of humor.

Rebecca Healy is a true wilder, growing up with no contact or knowledge of other telepaths. Discovered by a Clan member on the streets of San Francisco, she felt like she’d hit the jackpot. Finally, she knew what she was, or at least she thought she did.

When Brenna O’Donnell, long-lost heir of the O’Donnell Clan, and the strongest telepath in history, is returned to her family, she and Rebecca form a tight bond. Brenna has it all, looks, money, power, and men falling all over her.

Rebecca isn’t jealous, but it would be nice to find someone who would really love her and stick around in the morning. She’s intrigued by a handsome South American general, but of course, he has his sights set on Brenna. Carlos de Vargas wants more than love. His Clan has its back to the wall, and they hope for an alliance with O’Donnell. An alliance that would lead to war.

The story began in The Succubus Gift and continued in Succubus Unleashed. In Succubus Rising, questions are answered and new mysteries are revealed.

Any websites/places readers can find you on the web.

Twitter: @BRKINGSOLVER
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/brkingsolver
Web site: http://brkingsolver.com/

My books are available at:

AMAZON

BARNES&NOBLE

SMASHWORDS

GOODREADS

Also at the Apple iTunes bookstore.





Monday 25 March 2013

Author Interview: Jennifer Harlow





About the Author:

Jennifer Harlow spent her restless childhood fighting with her three brothers and scaring the heck out of herself with horror movies and books. She grew up to earn a degree at the University of Virginia which she put to use as a radio DJ, crisis hotline volunteer, bookseller, lab assistant, wedding coordinator, and government investigator. Currently she calls Northern Virginia home but that restless itch is ever present. In her free time, she continues to scare the beejepers out of herself watching scary movies and opening her credit card bills.


http://www.jenniferharlowbooks.com
Tales From the Darkside Blog http://blog.jenniferharlowbooks.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/jenharlowbooks
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jennifer.harlow.52
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4708453.Jennifer_Harlow
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/jenharlowbooks/


Do you plan everything or just let the story flow?


George R.R. Martin said authors are either gardeners or architects. I’m both. I always have the main characters and plot points in my head in advance but how I get from Point A to B usually changes because of the characters or logic gaps.

Do your characters ever want to take over the story?

I’m too much of a control freak to let that happen. I usually have all the major archs and plot points worked out so how they take me from point A to B is sometimes up to them, but I usher them there eventually.

What is your favourite food?

French fries. Lately, as I get older, they give me indigestion but I just cannot live without them.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

I used to be a night owl. Even in high school I wouldn’t fall asleep until at earliest 1AM. Then I got a job after college and had to force myself to change my habits. Now I’m in bed by 10 even though I make my own schedule. Being a grown up sucks.

Where do you dream of travelling to and why?

As I’m a huge, massive, I might as well have a Union Jack tattooed to my ass, anglophile I’d love to go to England again. I went to London for three days a decade ago but am dying to return. I’d go to London to Haworth on a Bronte pilgrimage, then to Scotland, Ireland, Paris, and all of Italy. When I make my millions, right?

Do distant places feature in your books?

Not in this book, but in future ones, yes. I’ve done extensive traveling in America, drove across country twice even, so I focus on places I’ve been then change their names in the books.

Do you listen to music while writing?

I do listen to music so the books have soundtracks. You can visit my website www.jenniferharlowbooks.com to see them. With this book, since it takes place in the American South, it’s country music. Some people snub their nose at that genre, like I used to, but it’s really good. Y’all should give some of the songs a try.

Could you tell us a bit about your latest release?

It’s entitled, What’s A Witch To Do? and it’s the first in a new series called Midnight Magic. It’s an offshoot of my other series, the F.R.E.A.K.S. Squad. This one follows the most powerful witch in America who, on the busiest week of her life, finds out someone wants to kill her and take over her coven. There’s romance, humor, Southern hospitality, and plenty of suspense. Sales pitch over.

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

It takes forever to get a book published when using a traditional publisher. Over a year from when they accept it to when it’s in bookstores. And you have little control over the cover and title. They changed all of mine. It’s frustrating but you have to take the good with the bad.

Is there anything you would do differently?

I ask myself the same question all the time. I would have liked to delve more into the supporting characters in my F.R.E.A.K.S. Squad series but it would have slowed down the pacing. Maybe in later volumes.

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

Everything influences my writing. The muse can strike at anytime in any form. Be it a conversation, a movie, a song it all goes into the pot when I’m writing something. Mix and Bake at 350, out pops a book.

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

Never give up, never surrender. Tenacity will win in the end. And when you get your rejection letters do what I do. Take a day of watching crap TV feeling sorry for yourself, then wake the next day, raise your fist to the sky and for some reason like a pirate say “FUCK YOU!!!! I’ll show you, ya bastards!” The Help was rejected 60 times. Charlaine Harris’ first Sookie Stackhouse novel was rejected over a hundred, but they didn’t give up and look at them now. It is beyond frustrating, it stings your soul every time, but if you want to be not a writer but an author it’s part of the game. Or you can self-publish online, but then you don’t get the joy of seeing your baby physically on the shelf, and let me tell you there is no greater thrill.

What are three words that describe you?

I wish I could say sex-goddess, genius, thin, but really it’d be witty, tenacious, and bright. Not too shabby.

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

I read so much I can’t really choose. The last book that got me super excited and I stayed up all night reading was A Storm of Swords the third in the Song of Ice and Fire AKA the Game of Thrones series. It was a masterpiece.

Blurb of your latest release or coming soon book:

What's a Witch to Do?
by Jennifer Harlow
Parnormal Mystery/Romance
Available from: amazon | b&n | indiebound | amazon uk
Publisher: Midnight Ink

With her to-do lists growing longer each day, the last thing Mona McGregor—High Priestess and owner of the Midnight Magic shop in Goodnight, Virginia—needs is a bleeding werewolf at her front door. Between raising her two nieces and leading a large coven of witches, Mona barely has time for anything else. Not even Guy, the handsome doctor who’s taken an interest in her.

But now there’s Adam Blue, the sexy beta werewolf of the Eastern Pack who’s been badly hurt, warning Mona that someone wants her dead. Hell’s bells! A demon is stalking her, and Mona starts to suspect her coven members and even her own family could be responsible for it. With two attractive men and a determined demon after her, Mona teams up with Adam to find out who really wants her dead . . . and who really wants her.

List of previous books if any:

Mind Over Monsters: A F.R.E.A.K.S. Squad Series #1

To Catch a Vampire: A F.R.E.A.K.S. Squad Series #2

Thank you, Jennifer and good luck with your books!

Sunday 24 March 2013

Cover Reveal: Secret for a Song by Adriana Ryan

Secret for a Song
by Adriana Ryan
New Adult/Romance
Release date: June 2013

Saylor Grayson makes herself sick. Literally.


She ate her first needle when she was seven. Now, at nineteen, she’s been kicked out of college for poisoning herself with laxatives. The shrinks call it Munchausen Syndrome. All Saylor knows is that when she’s ill, her normally distant mother pays attention and the doctors and nurses make her feel special.

Then she meets Drew Dean, the leader of a local support group for those with terminal diseases. When he mistakes her for a new member, Saylor knows she should correct him. But she can’t bring herself to, not after she’s welcomed into a new circle of friends. Friends who, like Drew, all have illnesses ready to claim their independence or their lives

For the first time, Saylor finds out what it feels like to be in love, to have friends who genuinely care about her. But secrets have a way of revealing themselves. What will happen when Saylor’s is out?


About the Author:

A huge fan of spooky stuff and shoes, Adriana Ryan enjoys alternately hitting up the outlet malls and historic graveyards in Charleston, SC where she lives and imbibes coffee. Her husband and two small children seem not to mind when she hastily scribbles novel lines on stray limbs in the absence of notepads.


Website: http://www.adrianaryan.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorAdrianaRyan
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/adrianaryansc
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/adrianaryan

Author Interview: Shawna Stewart

About the Author:

Biography Shawna Stewart, born in California is the youngest of nine children. At 14 she met the love of her life, later marrying him at 18. Together they now have three wonderful children. Suffering from an illness at age 29 she lost her memory. Determined not to let it overtake her life she returned back to school where she is presently working towards her bachelors in Literature and Psychology. Thanks to her sons suggestion, she once again began to write.


Now that I put down my typical Bio I will tell you a little more about me. I live in a small town where I hope to one day buy a farm. I would love to have the room so that my animals could run around and play like they should. I love to write and hope one day to be able to write on a fulltime basis. (I sure miss my late night writing sprees). Besides writing I love to sit by the river with my husband, family and animals and fish. To me it is much more than fishing, it is the time we all spend together laughing.

http://archangelousseries.webs.com/about-me   Do you plan everything or just let the story flow?   I let the story flow.

Do your characters ever want to take over the story?

Most of the time they do. I really get into the characters and it seems sometimes they have a mind of their own.

What is your favourite food?

Bacon cheese burgers

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

A night owl

Where do you dream of travelling to and why?

I would love to go on a cruise. I like the idea of traveling somewhere and not be on a plane.

Do distant places feature in your books?

Distant from me but usually within the USA

Do you listen to music while writing?

Sometimes I do.

Could you tell us a bit about your latest release?

Lessons from an Evil Mind is a Dark Paranormal/ urban fantasy/ horror. It is a book that is hard to put one specific Genre onto it. It has a bit of everything. The story is about a woman that is held captive by a man. She is uncertain to who the person is as he never shows his face. She witnesses horrible things, including pain. When she escapes she finds that life is not as she always believed it to be.

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

A lot. Whether you are self-published or have a publisher the most important thing you can do it get reviews, interviews, just get the book name out there.

Is there anything you would do differently?

Not really. I believe you learn from mistakes.

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

My son did. I lost my memory in 1995 so I had no idea I use to like to write. One day he asked me why I did not write. I found the idea intriguing so I picked up my laptop and started writing.

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

Learn from everything, your mistakes, bad reviews, just always keep your head up and never give up.

What are three words that describe you?

a bit silly

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

I like so many writers and books.

Blurb of your latest release or coming soon book

Lue sits in the middle of the floor. Her hands tucked beneath her, her eyes closed and her head, faced down. The evil that haunts her is there and she knows she must sit completely still and await the punishment that is coming next. The room goes silent, with only sounds of his foot steps as he comes closer. Every part of body screams “RUN”, but she knows she does not dare. She must sit silently and await what comes next. A loud crack echoes. Her head seers in pain. Blood rushes down her pale white cheeks. The next lesson has begun.

Even when Lue escapes, she is never far from her captor. She finds her life in turmoil as the Evil that once haunted her refuses to set her free. Her existence becomes filled with Angels and Demons, both of which want her, unfortunate for her the Demon will do everything in his power to keep her as his.

Extract from the book:

It’s a small window, but it’s the only window in this dreadful place and I am happy to have it. At one time, the window was not blocked; however, now the entrance to the window is surrounded by sharp shards of glass cemented into the

concrete around it, allowing only a dim light to seep through the grime and filth that layers the glass. I guess this is toensure I never try to escape again.

With my body weakened, I slowly crawl on top of an old, broken table so that I can get a better look outside. I am just tall enough to see over the barricade in front of the window. It looks like a nice day.

There are a few orange flowers spread amongst the ground, so I try to guess the season.

“Spring,” I think to myself.

The sun peeks through the glass just enough to allow a pin-size ray of light to dance on my palm. I move my bruised hand around as I watch the light dance around, causing the multiple colors of blue, red, and purple to stand out from the milky white flesh that remains untouched by his abuse. Oh, how I crave the sunshine and wind on my face and await the day I can feel it once again! Just as my thoughts wander to a better place, I hear his footsteps above.

He is back!

Any websites/places readers can find you on the web.

 www.archangelousseries.webs.com
www.sporepress.com,
amazon
goodreads

Thank you, Shawna and good luck with your books!

Book Spotlight & Giveway: Vegas Knights by Marina Maddix

Vegas Knights
by Marina Maddix
Erotic Romance
DESCRIPTION:

After a passionate public encounter with a mysterious and very sexy biker, big girl Kelly Saunders finds herself on the ride of her life. Her 'Knight on shining armor' -- Rick Knight, billionaire heir to a motorcycle legacy -- whisks her away from her soul-sucking corporate job to Las Vegas, where she finds the road to love is treacherous.

As urgent business matters demand more and more of Rick's attention, Kelly is left to wonder about the future of their relationship. A ruthless betrayal throws her life into turmoil, and a devastating discovery threatens to pull them apart. Is their love just so much Vegas glitter or is it strong enough to survive beyond the dazzling lights of Sin City?

EXCERPT:

They sat entwined under the stars, swaying slightly with the rhythm of their own bodies. Rick's hands moved slowly from her hair down her back. Shivers of anticipation rippled through Kelly. They were going to make love under the stars. It had always been a fantasy of hers but she'd never imagined it would come true. But a lot of things she'd never imagined were happening lately. Feeling the need to show him she wasn't some precious flower that needed tending and special care, that she was an independent woman, Kelly took control. His eyes never left her body as she moved to stand over him, legs spread, hands on her hips.

"Strip." The single word brought a knowing smirk to Rick's face. Without a word, and still never taking his eyes from her, he eased his off his jacket, throwing it aside. His gaze was positively smoldering as he loosened his tie and started to pull it over his head.

"Leave it." Kelly commanded on impulse. His hands paused, then dropped to the front of his charcoal Armani button-down, his eyes burning into her flesh like a brand. His fingers worked slowly, deliberately, intensifying her need for him. But she wouldn't give him the satisfaction of seeing her impatience. Cocking her hip, she let him tease her with his leisurely pace.

When the shirt was lying atop the leather jacket, he looked up expectantly, awaiting her next instruction. When she nodded toward his pants, triumph flashed across his face. She realized her mistake as he moved to stand. Once on his feet, he would tower over her, emphasizing her vulnerability and his dominance.

"On second thought, scratch that." One of his eyebrows shot up, and a look of exasperation took the place of triumph. She knew the score and she wasn't going to give him an advantage if she could help it. He leaned back on his elbows -- shirtless and irresistible -- and studied her.

She couldn't afford to make a misstep or show any hesitation. This had become less of a game for her and more of a demand for equality in this relationship. He may be rich, but that didn't mean he was in control here. Either he accepted that they were in this together, as equal partners, or he would be taught that lesson. Of course, she suspected that would be a lesson he might enjoy learning.

AUTHOR BIO:

Marina Maddix is a romantic at heart, but hates closing the bedroom door on her readers. Her stories are sweet, with just enough spice to make your mother blush. She lives with her husband and cat near the Pacific Ocean, and loves to hear from her fans. Connect with her by email (marinamaddix@gmail.com), on Facebook facebook.com/MarinaMaddix, Twitter (@MarinaMaddix), Goodreads (goodreads.com/MarinaMaddix) or her website (www.MarinaMaddix.com).

Marina's part of the Insatiable Reads book tour with 15 other sizzling hot romance authors. Different authors will be featured on various blogs throughout the month of March, culminating in several excellent giveaways. Check out the tour at www.InsatiableReads.com, where you'll find a schedule of Marina's other blog stops.
Remaining Blog Stops: 3/28 Cocktails & Books - http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com/
3/31 Beach Bum Reads - http://www.beachbumreads.com/

The book is available from amazon | b&n | kobo

Insatiable Reads Book Tour


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Saturday 23 March 2013

Author Interview & Giveaway: Rayne Hall




About the Author:

Rayne Hall has published more than forty books under different pen names with different publishers in different genres, mostly fantasy, horror and non-fiction. Recent books include Storm Dancer (dark epic fantasy novel), Six Scary Tales Vol 1, 2 and 3 (mild horror stories), Six Historical Tales (short stories), Six Quirky Tales (humorous fantasy stories), Writing Fight Scenes, The World-Loss Diet and Writing Scary Scenes (instructions for authors).


She holds a college degree in publishing management and a masters degree in creative writing. Currently, she edits the Ten Tales series of multi-author short story anthologies: Bites: Ten Tales of Vampires, Haunted: Ten Tales of Ghosts, Scared: Ten Tales of Horror, Cutlass: Ten Tales of Pirates, Beltane: Ten Tales of Witchcraft, Spells: Ten Tales of Magic, Undead: Ten Tales of Zombies and more.

website: https://sites.google.com/site/raynehallsdarkfantasyfiction/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RayneHall
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/rayne.hall
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4451266.Rayne_Hall

Could you tell us a bit about Storm Dancer?


Storm Dancer is a dark epic fantasy novel. The hero, Dahoud, needs to atone for the atrocities he committed as a siege commander. He works to build a new life, but his dark past won't let him go.

Ruling the land he once devastated, how can he keep the secret of who he really is? He is possessed by a demon that tempts him back into his old ways. How long can Dahoud resist the lure? He fights to shield his people from war's violence - but the worst danger comes from himself. How can he protect the woman he loves from the evil inside him?

Do you plan everything or just let the story flow?

I plan some, and let some flow. Switching between the two leads to the best stories.

Where do you dream of travelling to and why?

I've worked abroad (in Germany, China, Mongolia, Nepal and other places) and travelled a lot, and my imagination has journeyed yet further. For now, I've settled in a small town on the south coast of England. On cold, wet, blustery days I dream of somewhere dry, sunny and hot.

Do distant places feature in your books?

My fiction features many of the places I've visited, and also cultures from the past. Storm Dancer is set in a fantasy world loosely based on Bronze Age civilisations in the time of the ancient Persians, Egyptians, Hittites and Greeks, and the climate and landscape is inspired by North Africa and the Middle East.

Do you listen to music while writing?

Instrumental music with a steady rhythm is best. I like music that relates to the culture, mood or theme of the story, and I create playlists for each piece. When writing Storm Dancer, I listened to Arabic and Ottoman music.

Do your characters ever want to take over the story?

My characters wait until I've written the whole book, and then they tell me “It didn't happen that way!” and insist I rewrite it all.

Dahoud was reticent. He didn't let me into his secret for a long time. It took several rewrites before he finally admitted he was possessed by a demon, and even longer before he revealed just how terrible the things were he had done in the past.

Merida told me I had got a whole section wrong because she would never do that, and unless I changed it, she would not cooperate for the rest of the book. I tried to argue with her, but eventually I gave in, and with hindsight I admit she was right.

When my main characters talk to me, I've learnt to listen. They know the story best. It's as if they've lived it already.

Minor characters are a different matter. Some of them are like starlets, constantly scheming to get bigger roles. They try to take over the novel and become the big stars. If they grow too troublesome, I delete them from the plot.

What is your favourite food?

Fresh fruit

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

My rhythm is all over the place. Often, I take naps during the day, and get up in the middle of the night to write.

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

I've become a much better writer. When I started, I thought my writing was brilliant. Now, when I read those early efforts, I cringe.

As a trained publishing manager, I've always had knowledge of the publishing industry, but publishing is changing so much and so rapidly that I need to keep learning and adapting all the time.

Is there anything you would do differently?

I wouldn't rush to seek publication until I had mastered the writing craft really well.

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

Other authors have been a huge influence. From Stephen King, I learnt how to manage tension, from Jane Austen how to use dialogue for characterisation, from Gene Wolfe how to challenge reader perceptions, from Lisa Gardner how to build suspense. I learnt fantasy world-building from Dave Duncan, plot structure from David Gemmell. Edgar Allan Poe showed me how to delve into the human psyche for scary horror without gore, Marion Zimmer Bradley how to weave an epic plot, Tanith Lee how to infuse stories with darkness, Charles Dickens how to create characters who are quirky and real.

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

Learn the craft to a high standard and become the best writer you can possibly be.

What are three words that describe you?

Eccentric introvert writer.

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

Just one book? Just one writer? I can give you a shortlist of three hundred.

Blurb of Storm Dancer

Storm Dancer
by Rayne Hall
Genre: Dark Epic Fantasy

Publisher: Scimitar Press
ISBN: 9781465716651 Smashwords
ISBN: 1230000010279 Kobo
ASIN: B005MJFV58
Number of pages: 400
Word Count: 150,000
Book Description

Demon-possessed siege commander, Dahoud, atones for his atrocities by hiding his identity and protecting women from war's violence - but can he shield the woman he loves from the evil inside him?

Principled weather magician, Merida, brings rain to a parched desert land. When her magical dance rouses more than storms, she needs to overcome her scruples to escape from danger.

Thrust together, Dahoud and Merida must fight for freedom and survival. But how can they trust each other, when hatred and betrayal burn in their hearts?

'Storm Dancer' is a dark epic fantasy. Caution: this book contains some violence and disturbing situations. Not recommended for under-16s. British spellings.

Book Trailer http://youtu.be/tI5oxeOziQM

Available from: amazon | smashwords | kobo | iTunes


List of previous books if any

I've had over forty books published in several genres, under several pen names, by several publishers, in several languages. My recent publications are mostly in the fantasy and horror genres, for example the short story collections Six Scary Tales Vol. 1, Six Scary Tales Vol. 2, Six Scary Tales Vol. 3, Six Quirky Tales, The Colour of Dishonour: Stories from the Storm Dancer World, 13 British Horror Stories. I'm also the editor of the Ten Tales anthologies: Haunted: Ten Tales of Ghosts, Bites: Ten Tales of Vampires, Cutlass: Ten Tales of Pirates, Scared: Ten Tales of Horror, Beltane: Ten Tales of Witchcraft, Spells: Ten Tales of Magic, Undead: Ten Tales of Zombies.

Giveaway:

An ebook copy of Giveaway is an ebook at each stop. The book is "The Colour of Dishonour - Stories from the Storm Dancer World". Please add a comment along with your email address to enter :)

Book Spotlight: Be Positive! Think Positive! Feel Positive! Surviving Primary School Vol. 2

Be Positive! Think Positive! Feel Positive! Surviving Primary School Vol. 2
by Dr. Orly Katz
Non-Fiction/Child Development
www.simplymemodel.com


Blurb:


How often did you say to yourself in Primary School:

• There’s no point studying, I won’t pass my exams anyway…

• Why is it always me everyone picks on?

• I’m fed up with being such a loser…

There is one thing that is more important than anything else in helping you survive primary school.

It will help you be popular, it will help you attract all the things you want, and keep away from the things you don’t want:

The secret is positive thinking!

If you think that good things will happen, believe in yourself and behave as if you are confident in things going well, then you will attract those things you want.

The opposite is true too. If you think something bad will happen, have no confidence in yourself, and behave that way, then sure enough things you don’t want may well happen.

Imagine that you’ve discovered a secret key “The Key to the power of thought” that will help you unlock the secrets to:

• Controlling your thoughts in the same way that you control the other muscles in your body, so instead of being negative they are all positive!

• Changing from being a pessimist into being an optimist simply by changing the way you speak…

• Get over your inferiority complexes.

• Most importantly – understanding that everything you think and feel is reflected in the image you project to others and in your own self confidence. All these inner feelings are projected to the outside world. Other people receive these silent messages coming from you and change their behavior towards you accordingly. In the end you attract into your life those things you were thinking, both good and bad!

This book, the second in the popular series, (the books can be read in any sequence) includes true life stories about growing up with tips, helpful rules, simple to do exercises and fun ‘test yourself’ questionnaires and a personal journal all of which will help you discover how to be positive, think positive and feel positive and most importantly how to be “simply me” and to survive primary school!

The book is available from amazon

Friday 22 March 2013

Book Spotlight: Hurt Like Hell by London Casey





Title: Hurt Like HELL

Author: London Casey
Genre: New Adult Romance
Publisher: Hundred to Home
Format: Ebook
Length: 56000 words
Release Date: March 21st 2013
Buy Links: amazon | amazon uk | b&n
Book Description:

The debut novel from London Casey

HURT LIKE HELL

Tessa Belle barely escaped her father's abusive hands ten years ago, when she was just thirteen.

On her own now, in her own apartment, she tells herself it's time to start living. Her dating life has been lackluster as no boy or man could ever love her or protect her the way Jack Smithen had. After all these years, she can still picture his face that fateful night.

When her deadly past comes crashing into the present, she feels too alone to do anything. That's when her long lost love, Jack, appears - literally - and takes hold of her life, and her heart. It's been ten years since their first kiss, ten years since their lives were changed forever. But now they're together again, adults now, able to help each other, able to love each other openly. Jack's the only person who understands what Tessa endured, because Jack endured the same from his own abusive mother.

Just when it feels they can share the life they always dreamed, Tessa's father is released early from prison. His sole mission is to finish what he started that night in their basement ten years ago...

Hand in hand, Tessa and Jack prepare to face Tessa's father one last time... but this time, can they both make it out alive?

Book Spotlight & Giveaway: The Witch Hunter by Annette Gisby

The Witch Hunter
by Annette Gisby
Historical with romantic elements
Single Short Story
Also appears in the collection Shadows of the Rose
Cover art by Indie Author Services
Available from Smashwords | All romance

Blurb:

With the death of her father and brothers, Lady Katherine has no protection and is suffering unwelcome attentions from Sir Robert, a neighbour knight who has always cast an envious eye over her father's lands. Now with her relatives out of the way, Sir Robert tries to woo the reluctant Katherine.

After many rejections of his advances, Sir Robert incarcerates Lady Katherine in his dungeons, accusing her of witchcraft and sorcery. Despite the privations of the dungeon, Katherine will not give in and still refuses to marry him, no matter the cost.

One day Sir Robert announces that he has sent for the notorious witch hunter, Lord William Alden and she will suffer the trial by ordeal. Katherine has little to do but wait for her fate, but the witch hunter has secrets of his own…

Win one of 5 copies, just leave a blog comment to enter the rafflecopter draw :)

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Series Spotlight and Guest Post: The Progeny Series by Ashlynne Laynne





I am passionate about changing the persona of the vampire.


My Progeny Series is about a family of vampires and one within their family who is different, yet the same. Ascher is a half-bloodling (half-human and half vampire). His skin possesses the warmth of a human's, yet he lives off blood and is an immortal being.

New wave authors are bringing forth a new breed of vampire. The days of the cold-blooded, garlic fearing, cross-avoiding fiends of old are slowly giving way to a new type of warrior. The new blood is tougher, meaner, more human-like and fall deeper in love than any of their predecessors. These guys have the gentle touch of a feather but can tear an enemy apart with those same hands. They're as passionate about their clan ties as they are about the women who stir their blood.

They're bold, sexy warriors with hearts of gold and wills of steel. Their bodies are lean, sculpted immortal vessels of paranormal strength and ability. They’re devoted brothers, enemy slayers and erotic lovers capable of completely satisfying their chosen mate.

An author’s imagination dictates a character’s world, and we empower ourselves to freely interpret our mythical beings—even if it goes against the grain of traditional vampire roles. For me, creating feeling and intense vampires that are outside the typical vampire box is important. My vampires love passionately, have a strong sense of brotherhood and feel the full gamut of human emotions.

While I’m not one to conform, I subscribe to the fact that vampires are pale-complexioned and blood drinkers. I, however, didn’t want mine running around draining the life out of poor, unsuspecting victims. I'm a purist in believing that they are cold-skinned and burn in sunlight, but I'm not one to believe that vampires are emotionless, evil fiends who sleep in coffins and plan the demise of us warm-blooded humans.

The humanization of the "undead" makes for more interesting and intense love stories with the ability to suck the reader in, while fueling the imagination.And really...why is it so hard to believe that a vampire might have the emotional capacity to love as much as a human? They typically were human once and surely felt the full range of emotions during that time. So, why wouldn't that carry over into immortality?

The Progeny Series

The Progeny (Book One)
Blood Bonds (Book Two)
Blood Promise (Book Three)

Blood Promise (The Progeny Series #3)

“Their love is fated by an ancient prophecy. Now the promise is fulfilled.”

Ascher Rousseau is a half-human, half vampire whose life has been a series of prophecies and predictions. After finding incredible love and passion with Shauna—a Wiccan with powers beyond anything he’s ever known—he seals to her and hopes for happiness. But his enemies seek to destroy all that he loves, and he finds that happiness never lasts for long.

Darkness is descending and a vampiric revolution is nearing. A new brood of hatchlings is born to join their darkling brothers, in preparation for war. A preordained chain of events is set into motion that could lead to the rise of the demonic “cloaked one” and his half-human fallen children, while ending humanity—as we know it.

Can a supernatural love and the loyal bond of a family save the Rousseaus and the world from certain extinction?





About the Author:

Ashlynne Laynne has always had a soft spot in her heart for vampires but grew tired of the garlic fearing, sun-loathing creatures of old. An avid horror movie fan, she tends to enjoy media and music that is of a younger, more eclectic nature. This was the catalyst for her writing The Progeny. The vampire/witch pairing is unique and different when most books pair vampires with werewolves.

Ashlynne loves writing on the edge and teetering between the erotica and romance genres, and thinks of Ascher and Shauna as the wicked, damned version of Romeo and Juliet. She is currently working on book four of her Progeny Series, book one of her upcoming Rocker Series, and an untitled novella WIP. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, reading and spending time with her family. She juggles the hats of wife, mother, full time employee and part-time writer, hoping to write full time one day soon. Find and follow here online on Twitter. Check out her Manic Readers page, Blog and Website, or leave her a note in her Reader Email.

Ashlynne lives in North Carolina with her husband and teenage son.

About The Progeny Series

At its core, The Progeny Series is simply about a man and woman who fall in love, and the fact that he’s a half-blood (half-human, half vampire) and she’s a Wiccan human are secondary factors. When we meet Ascher, he’s grumpy. Frankly, who could blame him? He’s engaged to seal to Ursula—a cold and careless vampire who wants nothing more than to get her hands on a bloodstone— and he feels conflicted about his existence.

All of that changes when he meets Shawnette McCutchin. She’s beautiful, intriguing and possesses some of the most potent blood that he’s ever smelled. A war immediately begins inside Ascher. He craves Shauna’s blood just as much as he craves her body and the closer they get, the harder it is for him to control his urges. After Ascher calls off the sealing to Ursula, the trouble begins. His family’s peaceful period ends when Ursula’s army attacks the Rousseaus.

This series encompasses a family dynamic of which we’ve never seen. The Rousseaus share a common mortal and immortal bloodline, but loyalty is the thread binding this clan. Shauna and Ascher’s dissuaded love only strengthens the family bonds. Their unique union transcends bloodlines and completes the prophecy, defying the archaic beliefs of centuries old covenants while shattering the wall between the Wiccan and vampire worlds that has existed for ages. This series is erotic paranormal romance intended for adults, as it contains adult sensuality, language and themes.

The Progeny series is available from amazon worldwide sites including Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon Spain | B&N | Smashwords






The Progeny Series Trailer