Friday, May 31, 2013

Cover Reveal--Playing For Keeps by Emma Hart


PLAYING FOR KEEPS Cover Reveal



RELEASE DATE: MONDAY, JUNE 24TH.


Blurb:


From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Emma Hart, comes the second book in The Game series, and the story everyone wanted after The Love Game…


She's in love with him. 
He's trying not to love her. 
One night changes everything.

Aston Banks never meant to get close to Megan Harper – not even for that one night. Haunted by a childhood he refuses to face, he knew she could break through every wall he’d ever built and tear them down without even realising she was doing it.

Betraying Braden by starting a relationship with Aston wasn’t on Megan’s to-do list, but the second she sees a glimpse of someone other than the arrogant ass she’s come to know, she can’t walk away.

Aston’s childhood is worse than Megan ever guessed, but as he tries and fails to push her away, it’s clear her love is stronger than the demons that cling to him every day. And now, because of it, he finally has to deal with what he’s buried deep down.

What he doesn’t want to face. What he’s fought against for so long.

And they have to do it all without Braden finding out.

Keeping a relationship secret has never been harder.



**This book can be read as a standalone novel, but reading The Love Game (The Game, #1) beforehand is advised.)



EXCERPT:  Disclaimer: This is from the unedited version of the book, and is therefore subject to change or removal before publication.

MEGAN

“If you’re trying to hide, babe, then you’re failing. I can see you.” Aston’s words crawl over me in a smooth caress, making my throat dry up and my blood boil simultaneously.
“Why would I be hiding?” I sit up and look forward, determined not to meet his eyes.
He shrugs a shoulder carelessly, twirling a pen between his fingers. I catch his every movement from the corner of my eye. His eyes are burning into the side of my head - they’re begging me to turn, begging me to look.
“Because you want me so badly you can’t bear to see me,” he says in a dramatic tone with a touch of arrogance.
My back straightens. “Clearly someone has been feeding your ego again,” I reply dryly. “Because I don’t remember ever telling you I want you.”
His bicep brushes mine as he leans forward. “Is that so?” he asks, his voice low and barely perceptible.
I fight the urge to drop my eyes to the desk. “Damn right it is.”
A fingertip trails down the back of my arm, the tingling feeling making me fight against a shiver.
“I think you’re wrong,” he whispers. “Because I’m pretty sure you said you wanted me on Saturday night – right before you dug those nails of yours into my back and wrapped your pretty little legs around my waist.”
My head snaps round to him, and our faces are inches apart. His lips are curled in a slightly smug smile, and I hate the fact that’s where my eyes fell first. I drag them away from his mouth and across the sharp planes of his face until they meet his smoky eyes.
I remember why I didn’t want to look at him. His eyes have the power to entrance me and to break me. Right now it’s the former – the silvery hint at the edge of his iris pulling me in and holding me captive. I remember why, from the first touch of his lips against mine on Saturday night, nothing could have stopped us happening.

About Emma Hart:

By day, New York Times and USA Today bestselling New Adult author Emma Hart dons a cape and calls herself Super Mum to a terrible two year old and growing bump, due September 2013. By night, she drops the cape, pours a glass of juice and writes books.

She likes to write about magic, kisses and whatever else she can fit into the story. Sarcastic, witty characters are a must. As are hot guys.

Emma is currently working too many books to even count - including Playing for Keeps, the companion book to New York Times and USA Today bestselling novel, The Love Game. She likes to be busy - unless busy involves doing the dishes, but that seems to when all the ideas come to life.

Find Emma online at:
Blog: http://www.emmahart93.blogspot.com/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/YAAuthorEmmaHart
Twitter: @EmmaHartAuthor







Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Cover Love--The Thumbnail Challenge

I don't know about all of you, but I love a great book cover.  The trouble is with this world of digital access, what looks great in six by nine doesn't always get the point across in a one by one half inch image, or less.

So, I thought it might be fun to post the itty bitty covers that caught my eye.  As an author, I'm always looking for ways to improve my books and my covers are important to me.  Sometimes, they inspire me to write faster so I can share them with you guys and sometimes, I want to blow them up to poster size and paint my walls with them :)  I'm sure these authors are no exception.

I may even throw in a cover or two that makes me laugh or cringe for fun.

So here goes.

Love the colors in this one,.  It drew me in immediately.  I've also heard this is a great series, so I will be investigating!

Although the title is hard to read, I like the softness to this cover.  I can barely make out the word Fae, but that is enough for me to check it out, lol.

This one almost didn't make it.  The colors are too muted for my tastes and the title is really hard to read, but I wanted to know what was in the distance.  I think this would have been better if the background had more contrast, but that's just me.  It still does the job of pulling me in.

I did a double take on this one.  I love the mystery and the look in the girl's eyes.  Yes I hosted a cover reveal for this title, but I would still be drawn to it just by thumbnail.

 Look at this little bitty gem.  It makes me cold at just a glance.  The title is easy to read and the colors set a mood.  Does the blurb match that mood?

The title could be bolder or a different color in my opinion on this, but the composition is excellent.  It makes me wonder if that is a braid on her back or something else.  The mood is also mysterious, which I like.

Now for the humor.  Tell me it doesn't look like that bat is stabbing the poor girl in the eye (Can you tell it is a bat?).  Also in a slightly larger version it looks like she has a horn growing out of her head.  It's funny how things look so much different when it doesn't take up the majority of the computer screen.  Even so, I looked at the book :)

And the winner this week is...

I really couldn't pick just one, so here are my favorites for this week?  Do you agree?
Who knew there was a Games in that title.  Hmm.
 I keep my original opinion.  The title should be a different color, lighter, but it is still a great cover.  Look, that isn't a braid down her back.  What is it?  LOL

So there you go.  What covers have captured you lately?  What draws you to covers?  Are they important for you as a reader?

Until next time...

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Booyah Book Review--A Different Blue by Amy Harmon

A Different BlueA Different Blue by Amy Harmon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I'm a fan of Amy Harmon. I read her title A slow Dance in Purgatory before A different Blue and she already won me over with that one. Amy's writing is lyrical and flows so well no matter what she writes, it seems.

A Different Blue intrigued me not only because I had read another title from this author, but because the premise sounded great. I have always been drawn to Native American stories, and this one was no exception.

I loved the way Ms. Harmon infused legend into the book. Blue was such a strong heroine. I love a girl that knows what she wants, and Blue fits that mold. Even though she has weaknesses, she strives to overcome them. She wants better for her life and once a decision is made, that's it. She's full boar behind it.

I loved Wilson, too, although I wanted to smack him toward the end of the book, lol. I will not be giving away any spoilers because this book is beautiful from the first page till the last and should be experienced without any preconceived notions in my opinion.

I will say that the struggles Blue faces may be different than mine, but I connected to her fight to attain what she wanted out of life. I think we all feel as though we are different. It is only when we accept ourselves for who we are that we can really shine as a person, and Blue's story is such a wonderful example of overcoming and redemption.

This book is packed with emotional experiences from joy to anger to sadness, I felt it with Blue. She is one of my favorite contemporary heroines, and I am so glad I took a chance to read outside my preferred genre. This is an exceptional book from an exceptional author.

Bravo Amy Harmon. I can't wait to read your next brilliant novel!

View all my reviews

It's not hard for me to believe that A Different Blue just made Amazon's top ten list!  Congratulations, Amy!!!

About Amy Harmon:

Amy Harmon knew at an early age that writing was something she wanted to do, and she divided her time between writing songs and stories as she grew. Having grown up in the middle of wheat fields without a television, with only her books and her siblings to entertain her, she developed a strong sense of what made a good story. Amy Harmon has been a motivational speaker, a grade school teacher, a junior high teacher, a home school mom, and a member of the Grammy Award winning Saints Unified Voices Choir, directed by Gladys Knight. She released a Christian Blues CD in 2007 called "What I Know" - also available on Amazon and wherever digital music is sold. She has written four novels, Running Barefoot, Slow Dance in Purgatory, Prom Night in Purgatory, and coming March 29, A DIFFERENT BLUE. 

Purchase your digital copy of A Different Blue for $0.99

Amazon Barnes and Noble Smashwords

Monday, May 27, 2013

Cover Reveal--Cry Me A River by Devyn Dawson



Cover Reveal
Cry Me A River
by Devyn Dawson


Caide Palmer, Emerald Isle's resident chef and grieving father.  Everything in his life is turned upside down when his ex-girlfriend Heather dies from an accidental overdose.  She left behind their eighteen month old daughter.  Heather's parents filed for emergency custody of baby Lucy.  Now Caide is in the fight of his life to raise his daughter to the best of his ability.  The courts order Caide to attend parenting classes and Al Anon meetings.  It is there that he meets twenty-two year old River.  She is drawn in by his story, and she wants to mend his grieving heart.  Will Caide allow River in to his world, or will he find his role as single father is to be faced alone?  There's something about her that he wants to save.  Can they really save each other?  

Cry Me A River is a New Adult book with sexual situations and explicit language.  If you've ever mourned the loss of someone you loved, Cry Me A River will show you that love can conquer when you meet the right person.  Available July 2, 2013.

Add to your TBR list Cry Me a River

The author Devyn Dawson is from Oklahoma, but she kicks up her boots in New Bern, NC.  She spends her days writing about the characters who live in her head.  Devyn has been intrigued by the young adult world and is now branching out to new adult.  This is her first non-paranormal book.  Although the characters are fictional, grief of losing someone you love is drawn from her own experiences of death and loss.

Stalk Devyn's website

Devyn's Blog - tons of giveaways!

Amazon

Young Adult Books by Devyn

The Legacy of Kilkenny - book one
The Seduction - book 1.5
Malevolence - book two

The Light Tamer
Enlightened
Light Bound - Summer 2013

The Wisdom Series
Trust - book one  Winter 2013


New Adult Books

Sapphire, A Werewolf Love Story




Friday, May 24, 2013

Paperback Giveaway--Five Elemental Enmity Book I by Christie Rich

We all love a giveaway, right?

Well I do.  I've recently been working on getting my Elemental Enmity series in paperback.  I've got some shiny new copies to share of Five, Elemental Enmity Book I.  The giveaway is going on over on goodreads.  I even have a fab reworked cover.  Take a gander...



Isn't it pretty!

So, go on over to goodreads and enter to win one of three copies...This is US only.  Sorry my international peeps, but Five is still free for download on Amazon, Smashwords, and most other Etailers.



Goodreads Book Giveaway

Five by Christie Rich

Five

by Christie Rich

Giveaway ends June 13, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Hot New Release--Better Nature by Elizabeth Sharp!

Better Nature Release It's finally here! It's been a year and half, but I'm so happy to finally share Better Nature with you.


Everything in Amelia Hoffman's life has led to this. An evil plot threatens to destroy humanity and the future of the human race lies in Amelia's hands. Working through the tensions between Otherworld species, torn between two men and squabbling with her siblings—all while trying to get a college degree. The pressure is a killer—literally. Does she have what it takes to save the world?

Where to buy: Amazon  B&N


Author Bio:
Elizabeth Sharp is a self-proclaimed techno geek, I live in a quiet subdivision with my husband, one-year-old son, and far too many cats. My addiction to Facebook is dwarfed only by my addiction to Dr. Pepper. She learned to read by the time she was three, thanks to her sister Theresa. Since she was always a storyteller, Elizabeth started writing as soon as she learned how.

A naturally crafty person, Elizabeth makes jewelry, sews, crochets, and crates digital art, when hse isn't chasing after a toddler. Her favorite holiday is Halloween, because it's the only day of the year you can be whatever you want to be.

You connect with Elizabeth through Facebook, Twitter or Goodreads.

Now for ways to win. check out Elizabeth's blog, where she has a Rafflecopter to win several amazing prize packs. Or follow this list of link to find and unscramble a nature quote by Albert Einstein. 


If you want to learn more about The Forces of Nature, you can find all three books on Amazon.

Natural Selection ~ Book One

What do you do when you find out your family isn't your family, death is knocking at your door, and that guy you can't stop thinking about knows more about who you are than you do?

Amelia Hoffman was just a normal 15 year old until she found out the truth. Now ancient myths, supernatural beings, and murder have changed everything. Tests and school dances are no longer the biggest worry in her life-- she has to figure out how to save everyone she loves and accept the future in front of her before its too late.

Available in paperback, Kindle, Nook and other formats.


Second Nature ~ Book Two

Amelia Hoffman always knew she would be with Nathaniel Peplow forever, but after they bonded everything started to go wrong. Nate treats her like the enemy, her siblings are in danger, and an old threat grows closer. As Nate pulls away and Amelia’s burgeoning friendship with a handsome stranger blossoms, she worries she made the biggest mistake of her life. If sorting out her love life wasn’t enough, a new drug emerges that not only threatens the ones she loves, but seems to be part of something larger than she could ever imagine. Amelia’s new and old friends must work together to not only save themselves, but the whole world.
 Available in paperback, Kindle, Nook, and other formats


Better Nature ~ Book Three
 Everything in Amelia Hoffman's life has led to this. An evil plot threatens to destroy humanity and the future of the human race lies in Amelia's hands. Working through the tensions between Otherworld species, torn between two men and squabbling with her siblings—all while trying to get a college degree. The pressure is a killer—literally. Does she have what it takes to save the world?
Available in paperback, Kindle, Nook, and other formats to come.

Book Trailer--Better Nature by Elizabeth Sharp!

How about a tantalizing trailer?  You ready for it?  It's awesome :)  Enjoy!


You've all been waiting patiently, but the day is finally here, release day. I'm so proud to finally share it with you all. To celebrate the release, I'm doing tons of giveaways. You should join in to win.


Everything in Amelia Hoffman's life has led to this. An evil plot threatens to destroy humanity and the future of the human race lies in Amelia's hands. Working through the tensions between Otherworld species, torn between two men and squabbling with her siblings—all while trying to get a college degree. The pressure is a killer—literally. Does she have what it takes to save the world?

Where to buy: Amazon  B&N


Today, I'm so happy to share not only my new book, but also the shiny new trailer for the Forces of Nature series. Take a look!





If you want to learn more about The Forces of Nature, you can find all three books on Amazon and Barned and Noble. Further formats coming soon.

Monday, May 20, 2013

Into the Spiral by Erin Danzer--Half-Birthday Bash



Book Blurb:
Fifteen-year-old Veronica “Ronnie” Lambert wants to get out from under her older brother’s shadow. When Ronnie gets a tattoo and then is struck by lightning, she suddenly finds herself able to see and hear things in shadows that don’t appear to others. Then Ronnie meets Gavin Clearwater, the hot new guy in all of her classes and finds out he can see and hear the same things she can.

Gavin tells her about the Spiral Defenders, a group of warriors that travels through space and time to defend the planets of the Spiral. After meeting the Commander of the Spiral Defenders and realizing his intentions might not be pure, Ronnie struggles between following her destiny to become a Spiral Defender and trying to regain the life she had before being struck by lightning.

Buy Links
Amazon:

AmazonUK:

BarnesAndNobles:



Add it to your Goodreads TBR list!


Erin's offering some great swag in a giveaway for her Half Birthday Bash.  Take a gander :) and make sure you enter the rafflecopter at the end of the post.




Let's take some time and get to know Erin a bit...

1. When did you start writing?  Was there a specific event that triggered it? When I was in third grade, all the students in my grade had to write and illustrate a book for the Young Authors Competition. I wrote a book about a tooth having to go to the dentist. Even though I only received an Honorable Mention, I found a love for creating stories that has stuck with me since then.
2. How do you get ideas for your books? They literally just pop into my head. It could be sparked by a song on the radio or even something that I’ve just read. For Into the Spiral, Ronnie just walked into my head one day and she was pissed off. I had to find out what was wrong and from there, the story began writing itself. For other stories I have, I think about what I like most about some of my favorite books and work out my own story from there. I even have one story I plan to write this November based on ancient Celtic mythology and history. My ideas come from everywhere.
(Christie says: Love Celtic lore. Can't wait!)
3. Are your characters inspired by real people? Not intentionally. I’ve been told that Ronnie looks very similar to a friend I work with. But I do think I take traits of the people around me (and myself) and put them into my characters.
4. Do you have something in common with Ronnie or Andi? When writing Ronnie and Andi, I based their relationship on my relationship with my BFF, so I think that I do have things in common with both of them. Ronnie and I both have dark hair (mine used to be as long as hers too). I like to think that if I was put into the situations I put Ronnie into, that I would do the same things she does.
5. Do you have a favorite character among your books?  Who and why?  And do you have one that you don’t like? Just one favorite character? I love all of my characters equally… well, almost all of them. While I understand why Rick does what he does (he’s my villain), I don’t really like him and quite frankly, he kind of creeps me out. But I do get the excitement of a schoolgirl crush—literally butterflies in my stomach—whenever Gavin comes on the page.
6. What is your favorite book of all times? This changes a lot because what I like to read has changed a lot over the years. Right now, my favorite books that I can read over and over are the Mortal Instruments books by Cassandra Clare. The action, adventure, and romance in those books keeps me coming back to them at least once a year. Two years ago, I was that way with the Harry Potter books; I read them every summer for four years.
7. What is your favorite paranormal creature?  Would you like to be one? A shapeshifter. The kind that can shift into anything. And yes, I think it would be fun to change my appearance at will.
8. What are the biggest challenges and rewards of writing a book? The biggest challenge for me is finding the gumption to get myself out there and promote my work. I have a very hard time saying “hey look, I wrote a book!” But I know if I don’t do that, not many people are going to do it for me and my dream of being a stay-at-home-mom/writer won’t be realized. The greatest rewards are the reviews and connecting with the readers. I’ve only met very few so far, but it’s very exciting to have people begging me for the next book or story because they can’t wait to see what happens next. Heck, just having one person tell me “I’m reading your book” is enough to put a huge grin on my face for the rest of the day.



About the Author:
Erin Danzer wrote her first book at 10-years-old for a Young Authors competition, where she was awarded an Honorable Mention and discovered a passion for the written word. She’s written several novels and short stories since that spark ignited. Into the Spiral is the first of a four book series. In addition to her novels, Erin writes a monthly short story serial, The Cassandra Serafin Chronicles, posting alternately on her blog and in Literary Lunes bi-monthly online magazine. Erin resides in Racine, Wisconsin, with her husband, two children, and their cat.

Social Media Links

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, May 17, 2013

Cover Reveal--Promise Me This by Sarah Ashley Jones


Promise Me This by Sarah Ashley Jones
Cover Design by Okay Creations.
Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance
Release Date: June 17, 2013

Welcome to the South - where the tea is sweet and the accents are sweeter. This Southern way of life is all Charlie has ever known. It’s not until she loses the only person who pushed her to break free of the Southern Belle mold that she starts living the life she needs and not the life her parents forced on her.

Jhett has lived on the edge for as long as he could remember - constantly teetering back and forth between being a rock star and living a normal life. His rebellious and sometimes arrogant attitude is known to get him into trouble, especially with the girls who hang on his every move.

Charlie never thought that a trip to pack up her brother’s apartment would leave her feeling even more unsettled about the grainy details of her brother’s death. Her quest for information leads her straight to his old hangout and into arms of Jhett, who suspiciously knows more about her situation than he ever should.

Only a few questions remain - Can you trust someone based on their word alone? And if you make a promise, how far will you go to keep it?


About The Author

Sarah Ashley Jones was raised in San Diego, California, but currently wrangles her husband and four dogs in Clarksville, Tennessee. When she's not writing she works in a pottery studio and comes home covered in paint on a daily basis. She has a slightly unhealthy obsession with cupcakes and chapstick. She is an eternal optimist and can often be found dancing and singing to music at any given time. It's rare to see her not smiling or laughing, but if you do, just bring her a cupcake and it will cheer her up.

Promise Me This is her first novel and is a story that weaseled its way into her heart and wouldn't leave her alone until she typed it up on the computer. She already is hard at work on ideas for her next book and hopes that the
characters never stop coming to her. Her huge imagination was always in overdrive as a child and now she is beyond excited to put it to good use as an adult. She plans to write as long as she has stories that need to be told.

FIND SARAH ASHLEY JONES ON

ADD PROMISE ME THIS ON GOODREADS

Love this cover, and the book looks great, Sarah!

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Meet Your Favorite New Author--Nancy Straight Interview and Giveaway!

You've probably already seen me gush about Nancy Straight, but I'm going to do it again.  Nancy's books have hooked me, and I love her ability to make me believe in true love.  She writes men noble, which I find refreshing.  She's written the Destiny Series, which includes Meeting Destiny, Destiny's Revenge, and Destiny's Wrath.  The ideas set forth in the series are so unique and intriguing I was pulled in immediately.  Her second series, The Touched Series floored me.  I hadn't ever read a modern book about Centaurs and this series is also unique.  I was so invested in the first book, I read it while shopping.  I was at a critical point in the story and seriously yelled in the frozen section. Let's just say that Nancy is a fantastic story teller, and I love the unique spin she puts in her stories.  They are all five star reads and original to boot.



 Nancy also has a way with covers.  Aren't these lovely?




Now for a fun interview with Nancy!



1. When did you start writing?  Was there a specific event that triggered it?
It was the combination of two events.  Event one:  I used to work with a lawyer who I had a great deal of respect for.  We were working together one afternoon, he set a pile of papers on the table I had written, looked me square in the eye and said, “Mrs. Straight, you are one of the most compelling writers I’ve ever met.”  Keep in mind, what he was reading was work-related and a full ten on the boring scale.  His compliment was unexpected and flattering, I filed it away. 
The second event was when I finished reading Stephanie Meyers’ Twilight Series.  She was able to elicit nearly every major emotion I had experienced in my life, in just four books.  When I put Breaking Dawn down, I was wholeheartedly inspired and I began writing.
2. How do you get ideas for your books?
The Destiny Series was a story I had in my head screaming to get out.  It wasn’t based on any event in my life, but was something I felt compelled to write.  I wish I could explain it.  The Touched Series is a series I wanted to write.  I wanted a subject that was off-the-wall enough that it wouldn’t be compared to any other series.  Centaurs are a nearly non-existent theme in the Paranormal Romance / Mythological Romance genre so I think I hit my mark. 
3. Are your characters inspired by real people?
The characters’ personalities are absolutely based on real people.  Not the circumstances the characters find themselves in, but the personality traits – yes.  Most of my friends are incredibly strong, intelligent, successful women so the heroines in my stories are also very strong.  I like to think of them as a culmination of about five AMAZING women in my own life. 
4. Do you have something in common with Lauren or Camille?
Lauren and Camille are two kick-butt heroines, with very different personalities.  Lauren went toe-to-toe with a demon, was put through some horrific physical challenges, and her perseverance ultimately got her the happy ending she fought for. 
Camille is every bit as strong as Lauren, but her strength is in her unwavering force of will.  As her story unfolds, I think she’s a character we’ll all hope to see when we look in the mirror.
As far as things in common with Lauren or Camille?  I hope there is a little of me in each of them – but I don’t want to fight a demon to confirm it!
5. Do you have a favorite character among your books?  Who and why?  And do you have one that you don’t like?
A favorite?  I absolutely LOVE Daniel in the Touched Series.  He’s Camille’s best friend, is the voice of reason when she makes some questionable decisions and is as sarcastic as any friend I’ve ever had.  The part that I don’t like about him is he is in love with Camille and keeps popping back into the story trying to convince Camille to leave the Centaur life behind her.   Centaur Rivalry is the third book in the series, and he finally found a girlfriend!
6. What is your favorite book of all times?
I’m sure the right answer to this one should be one of the classics, but I used to HATE reading.  Yes, not dislike – HATE.  I’m convinced because I kept trying to read books that others told me were great literature, instead of stories that moved me.  Instead of one, I’m going to name a few and tell you why I love them.
Significance by Shelly Crane.  The story brought me to tears, made me laugh and at one point made my palms sweat.  There’s something about Shelly’s writing that made me want to pry my eyes open at 3 am when I knew I had to catch a nap because my alarm was going to go off at 5 am.
Inescapable by Amy Bartol.  The main character Evie totally ticked me off in the beginning, but hers was the first book where I developed a full blown love affair with a fictional character.  I dare you not to fall in love with Reed!  Midway through the first book, her heroine grew on me.  Four books later I’m begging Amy to finish her next book.  (Christie says: I'm right there with you, Nancy, although, I secretly hope Evie will end up with Brennus, or at least he will get a HEA)
Reckless Magic by Rachel Higginson.  This whole series was exceptional, I read all four books in eight days.  I laughed, cried, and when it was over I read it a second time just to make sure I didn’t miss anything my first time through.
Beg for Mercy by Shannon Dermott.  There are no words.  This is the only book I can remember reading where I read it at my son’s bus stop, at lunch, in the kitchen waiting for the stove to heat up for dinner, on the way to the movie theater with my husband.  I was obsessed. 
Five by Christie Rich.  I swear I’m not putting  your book on the list just because I’m on your blog.  I brag about your series ALL THE TIME.  I wish I could tell everyone what I wrote you when I finished the third book.  LOL!  I’ll just leave it that I am soooooo in love with Heath, my husband should be jealous.
7. What is your favorite paranormal creature?  Would you like to be one?
I have to say that I’m pretty partial to Centaurs now, but until recently I would have to say Vampires.  There’s something a little romantic, regardless of the story line, about combining immortality with desire and pleasure.  But, no, if there really are any vampires out there – I’m happy remaining a mortal human.  J
8. What are the biggest challenges and rewards of writing a book?
Shortly after I published my first book, Meeting Destiny, I joined goodreads.  I think I had sold maybe twenty-five books.  I was still very new to the site and I was surprised when a friend request came in from Charles Young.  This was followed by a message saying he had read Meeting Destiny and loved it.  Charles was my very first fan and I still message him regularly.  If any of you have ever sent a message like the one I received from Charles to a “Rookie” author, I can guarantee you will never comprehend the lifelong impact your simple act of kindness has made (or will make) in that author’s life!  When a story moves you, let the author know.  Since that day, I’ve met many readers who have gone out of their way to brighten my day – every single message has been an inspiration.
Biggest challenges?  I’m horrible at marketing.  Every bit of success I’ve achieved has been the result of readers who believed in my novels, and wanted to share them with their friends, not my ability to do any actual marketing.
Christie, thanks so much for having me today!

Loved having you here, Nancy.  You can stalk Nancy at the following locations:

Goodreads
Blog
Twitter
Facebook


Nancy was born in Sioux City Iowa, left the cold of the Midwest in 1991 and only returns to see family in the summer time. She spent ten years traveling the world as a US Marine and settled in rural SC with her husband and two children.

She enjoys reading all types of Paranormal and Young Adult literature.


Now For the Giveaway!
I'm offering you an ebook copy of any of Nancy's books!  That's right!  You get to choose which etailer and title you'd like.  Oh, and the first book in each of her series is free on all major etailers, so everyone is a winner, really!  Enter below, and be sure to say hi to Nancy!  She is seriously one of the sweetest people I've ever met.
Happy Reading Everyone.




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Thursday, May 9, 2013

Hot New Release--Frostwalker by Brandon R. Luffman!

New Release Announcement:

Frostwalker, By Brandon R. Luffman

A Survival Horror Novel
Title Artwork
There’s something in the woods behind Jake Marsden’s house – and someone wants him to find it. A strange dream shatters his sleep, night after night, and a compulsion to find the dark presence in the forest wars with his logical and ordered nature. What’s a geek to do?
When his small hometown of Wynn, North Carolina falls under an ancient curse, Jake will find himself in a battle against creatures worse than any he’s faced in a game. Playing for keeps, it will be geek versus god in the fight to stop an evil force bent on destroying everything he holds dear.
The Geek Shall Inherit The Earth – If They Live Long Enough.

Front Cover Art


Read the first third of the book for free at the Smashwords link below!

Grab Your Copy Today!

Paperback - $7.99:

Ebook/Kindle - $3.99:

More Retailers To Come! 

About Brandon R. Luffman
Brandon Luffman

Born in Statesboro, Georgia in 1976, Brandon Luffman was raised in rural North Carolina from the time he was old enough to walk. In the sixth grade he discovered “The Chronicles Of Narnia”. Soon after that, he was on to Stephen King and Arthur C. Clarke. At the same time, he was making his first forays into writing fiction. After creating a series of short fantasy pieces for a class assignment that were received with praise, he was hooked on writing fiction for the entertainment of others. Now Brandon writes supernatural horror as well as fantasy, science fiction, and other genres. His short fiction is available online in various formats. Brandon still lives on the family farm in northwestern North Carolina with his wife and family. Taking inspiration from his homeland, he brings southern sensibilities and a modern flair to these classic genre themes. His first novel, Frostwalker, was released in May of 2013.

Find Brandon Online

Friday, May 3, 2013

Blog Tour--From The Shadows by Christina Moore




Christina's published works:
The Shadow Chronicles - Chasing Shadows and From the Shadows
Firehouse 343 – Fire Born

From the Shadows synopsis:
Shapeshifter Juliette Singleton left her home to escape the oppressive concern of her family...and the memory of being raped. She finds little solace, however, as her sleep is plagued with nightmares, forcing her to re-live the brutal assault over and over again.
Race Covington, a chimaera, thought he was the only one of his kind. Then he reunited with Juliette, whom he had known as a child, and discovered to his delight that he was not alone after all—and the both of them discovered that they were destined to be together.
Meeting her mate leads Juliette to open up about the attack and begin the healing process, while Race believes meeting his means it is definitely time to escape the employ of a dangerous and vindictive vampire. They decide it is time to start their lives over again—together—but going home proves to be harder than they expected when they are forced to confront a dangerous foe neither could have ever imagined.

Excerpt:
I must have been more tired than I thought, either from my virtually sleepless nights or from having to expend so much energy to stay a dog, because I fell asleep soon after he turned the TV to a football game. I wasn’t much into watching the game when I’d rather be playing it, so I’d closed my eyes thinking I’d get up and sneak out when I heard him go to the bathroom.
Next time I opened them, however, the TV was off and I was alone in the room, the only light coming from the parking lot lights shining through the blinds on his windows. Thankful that my energy hadn’t run out while I slept and caused me to automatically revert to my human form (as I knew sometimes happened to an exhausted shifter), I raised my head and looked at the clock on his cable box, noting that it was just after midnight. Shit, I thought sourly. None of the busses would be running at this hour and I had no money for a cab—how the hell was I going to get back to my hotel room?
Obviously I had no choice but to walk, but if I did so as a dog I chanced being picked up and taken to the pound, which was definitely not a situation I wanted to end up in. My only other option, as I saw it, was to go in human form…and to do that, I was going to have to steal some clothes. I felt bad about having to turn thief on someone who had only been nice to me, but there was nothing else for me to do. Stepping down off the couch and stretching, I then walked down the little hall and into the bedroom. On the wall directly in front of me was a closet, to my right the bathroom, and to my left was a large area with a bed and a desk. I didn’t see a dresser so it appeared that all his clothes were in the closet.
Glancing in the direction of the bed, I listened for a brief moment to the sound of the stranger’s steady breathing. He was sound asleep. I phased back into my human form and stepped to the closet, sliding the left-hand door open as soundlessly as I could. I grabbed an OSU hoodie off its hanger and quickly pulled it over my head. Now I needed pants. A second’s glance told me that the side I had opened was all shirts, so I slid the door closed and stepped over to the right. Opening that door, I found the matching bottom and took them off the hanger. After sliding the door closed again, I stepped into the sweatpants as quickly as I could, tightened the drawstring and knotted it so they wouldn’t fall down, then turned and walked cautiously out of the bedroom.
I paused when I reached the front door, wishing I could have thanked the man for being so nice to me. But it was impossible, I thought with a sigh, and reached up to turn the deadbolt.
“Were you really going to leave without even saying goodbye?”

Author Interview:

What inspired you to write your first book?
I’ve wanted to write for a very long time. In fact, when I was about 20, I started writing a romantic suspense novel I’d titled The Princess Spy, and I think I got about seven or eight chapters into it before I stopped writing it. I don’t recall the reason why I stopped, but I would certainly love to find the notebook it’s written in so I can polish it up and finish it.

How did you come up with the titles of each book?
For the Shadow Chronicles, I wanted something thematic, so each of the books will have the word “shadows” in it. The same goes for my romantic suspense series, Firehouse 343—the first four books will have the word “fire” in it.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
None that I can think of. I just hope that readers enjoy it!

Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
Not in any of the books I’ve written so far, but I was in a car accident this past January that I’ll be writing into my next Firehouse 343 novel.

What books have most influenced your life most?
Paranormal romance, romantic suspense, and mysteries/thrillers influence me. I know these are genres and not individual books, but I really couldn’t put a finger on any one particular book or books that have influenced me more than any other. I think any book that I read and really enjoy influences me in some small way.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
I think I have two—Nora Roberts and Deborah Cooke. Both of them not only write sexy, irresistible male heroes, but strong, capable female heroines, and I really like it when the female characters start out strong and end strong.

What book are you reading now?
I actually read a book called The Marine’s Babies by Laura Altom on my recent birthday. It’s one of Harlequin’s American Romance line of stories.

Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
Kristine Cayne, Shayne McClendon, and Mina J. Moore, to name a few. Their books are really entertaining reads that I’ve enjoyed quite a bit. I met these wonderful ladies through Facebook and we have become pretty good friends.

What are your current projects?
Right at the moment I’m planning a new book which may be a stand-alone, but has the potential to be the first in a series. It will depend on how it turns out. When I’ve finished it, I plan to write the next book in the Firehouse 343 series.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your books?
There’s nothing major, but if I were so inclined, I might re-word a few scenes to make them work differently.

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
I don’t really know how or when, except my earliest memory involving writing goes back to when I was in grade school, and I’d written some short story (just a few paragraphs, I imagine) that was apparently good enough to be brought to the principal’s attention. It involved dinosaurs. But ever since then, when I’ve had to do any creative writing, I’ve strived to make it interesting.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
Naming characters can be a challenge. Sometimes I get an idea in my head of their personality and can’t find a name to fit. I also sometimes find it difficult to write action sequences, or to transition from one scene to the next.

What was the hardest part of writing your book?
Getting it finished, really, was the hardest part of From the Shadows. When I first started writing it, I had a pretty good flow, but unfortunately I go through these periods where I just can’t seem to get motivated. The writing still goes on in my head, but getting the work done is a struggle. A lot of that has to do with outside stress in my life that’s not related to my writing. Thankfully I’m in a really good place right now, so the creativity is flowing!

Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?
Writing and editing and character development are hard work. Keeping the plot flowing and tying everything together really does take a lot of effort. Writing isn’t just sitting down and writing; there’s so much more involved than just typing or writing the words—especially if you’re an indie like me and you have to do most of the post-writing work yourself.

Do you have any advice for other writers?
Go for it. If you have an idea rolling around in your head, sit yourself down and write it. Just get it all out and worry about making it presentable later.

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
Thank you so very much for buying my book. I really hope you enjoyed it enough to come back for more!

What would you do in a zombie apocalypse should it occur on Black Friday?
I would be hoarding bottled water and canned goods, I ain’t gonna lie. I’d be getting my hands on some strong slicing weapons like swords or machetes, and I want a crossbow with as many arrows as I can get my hands on.

If you could interview one of your characters, who would it be and why?
Lochlan Mackenna from The Shadow Chronicles. He’s got a secret that he hasn’t told anyone, and I’d try to get him to tell. He’s also a flirt and he’s sarcastic, which I love. I’d also want to interview Logan Kilbride from Firehouse 343. Like Lochlan, he’s a sarcastic, flirtatious guy, and what woman wouldn’t want to get to know a sexy, single firefighter better?

Fave character(s) not your own?
In books it would be Sherlock Holmes and Eve Dallas. In the movies, James Bond and Aragorn. On TV, Dean Winchester and the Tenth Doctor.

Is there any musical group or singer that inspires your writing?
Oh, absolutely. When I’m writing, I like to think of songs that would make for a good soundtrack to certain scenes, just like in a movie. I often hear 3 Doors Down, Linkin Park, and Nickelback in my head, and I’ve also thought of Hunter Hayes, Kelly Clarkson, and Patty Loveless, among others. I’ve made lists of the songs that got me through my books and plan to get them up on my blog one of these days.

Links:

Bio:
Christina Moore proved she had a talent for writing fiction in grade school when a story about a dinosaur so interested her teacher that it was brought to the principal’s attention, and she was highly praised for her creativity. Although she doesn’t recall the details of that childhood tale, the feeling of accomplishment stayed with her throughout her life. Deciding in her teens to indulge in her passion for storytelling, Christina delved first into fan fiction, which she has written off and on for several years. Her mother said to her when she was just 14 that she “could write this stuff,” and a long-time friend once told her she had the talent to be a professional writer; so after procrastinating a lot longer than she should have, she put her mind to writing something she could sell.

After working on her first novel during NaNoWriMo 2010 and editing and revising the story throughout the next year, Christina made her professional debut in January of 2012 with the paranormal romance Chasing Shadows, followed by an erotic short story entitled The Beauty in the Black Room and the romantic suspense novel Fire Born, both also published in 2012. Currently she resides in Ohio, where she has lived all her life.

When not allowing the characters in her imagination use her to tell their stories, she enjoys a great movie, good times with family and friends, and being “hu-mom” to two Chihuahuas and two Siberian Huskies. Christina always keeps a notebook handy to jot down ideas for future stories and is currently working on her fourth novel.