Circle of Lies

In honor of the Circle of Lies blog tour starting tomorrow authors Sara Dailey and Staci Weber are giving away a e-book copy of Pack of Lies, the first book in the Red Ridge Pack series and a $25 Amazon Gift Card!



Book Description:

The last thing Allison Wright ever expected when she moved to Red Ridge, New Mexico was to come muzzle to muzzle with the wolf of her dreams.

Oceans of Red Cover Reveal

Title: Rise Of The Demons: Oceans of Red Volume 1

Author: Willow Cross

Publisher: Self Published

Pages: 67

Blurb:

By 2015 the streets of Los Angeles have been transformed from a thriving metropolis to a hostile world ravaged by demons bent on assimilating the human race. Standing between this total apocalypse of humanity and their chance for survival is 19 year old Remy Martin.

Printed Books Giveaway Hop

Printed Books Giveaway Hop

February 1st to 7th

This book is all about the printed word. There is nothing quite like holding an actual book in your hands while you enjoy a great story. Ebooks are all fine and well but they can't take the place of a real book. Up for grabs is my ARC of The Hungry Ghosts. I loved this one so much its been hard to let go of it but I've decided its time that it got a new home. This giveaway is international and as always its not a requirement that you follow my blog but its always appreciated.

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Twist of Fate

Book 1 of the Blood Rose Series – Twist of Fate
Legend states that a Crimson Moon only appears when a new vampire is created. Jade Stevens never thought that this legend would ever apply to her.
Six months after losing Alex, she's trying to get her life back on track. Now in charge of the museum's research and acquisition department, she comes face to face with Caleb Stone. She can't deny the raw energy burning between them, but doesn't want to disrespect the memory of the man she loved.
As they grow closer both in and out of the office, a long-thought dead figure from Caleb's past re-emerges looking for revenge. Now Jade is caught in a tug of war, where she is the prize.
Now, in the wake of a daring attack on Jade that leaves her hovering between life and a miserable undead existence, Caleb risks it all in a last ditch effort to save the woman he's grown to love.
Will a Crimson Moon rise tonight?
Buy Links: Publisher / Amazon / NovelNook / All Romance Ebooks


Excerpt for Twist of Fate:
Getting up and smiling at Jade, Kalieigh took her leave. I turned back to Jade and could think of nothing else but kissing her senseless, so I indulged and did just that. I think Jade knew what I was going to do because as soon as my lips slanted over hers, she pulled me down on top of her as she laid down on the couch. I grinned into her lips and tried to keep most of my weight off her by propping myself up on my arms. She growled and pulled me down hard. I sunk into her and pretty much all was lost.
I felt her arms slide up and around my neck and her nails scraping the back of my neck as I moved from her swollen red lips to her neck. I found her pulse point and attacked it softly. I felt her nails sink into my back, right between my shoulder blades, and drag across. The little minx was pushing at my self-control and she knew exactly what she was doing. I pulled up and looked, to find she was smiling wickedly at me. I smirked right back at her.
I pulled her arms from around my neck and stretched them out over the top of her head. I felt her struggle, but the more she did, the more I kept her where she was.
“So this is how we’re going to play it, hmm? Have it your way, angel…” was all I said to her. Her eyes had darkened to nearly black by this point.
“Caleb, for the love of mercy, shut up and kiss me!”
I could hear the faint tone of desperation in her voice. The knowledge that I caused this sent a surge of smug pride through me. Releasing her arms, I bent my head and kissed her again, sliding my tongue across her pursed lips, demanding entrance. Jade relented and opened her lips, allowing me access to the blissful warmth inside. I could feel a rumble between us, but, surprisingly, it came from Jade’s throat. I ran my hand slowly up the side of her torso, and up the side of her neck, feeling the muscles tense up. As my hand went back down, I slowed down enough so that my fingers were just skimming her skin. She twisted from side to side to get me to relent, but I wasn’t done with her yet. I leaned in and ran my tongue across the outer rim of her ear. That elicited a moan from Jade that sent sparks down my spine. Suddenly, the noble part of me decided to rear its head. I pulled myself up from a flushed and panting Jade, who was looking up at me with a mixture of heat, confusion and a hint of murderous intent. I closed my eyes, trying to gain a small semblance of control.
“If you are having any second thoughts, stop me now because this is the last chance. I want you to be sure Jade.”
Jade sat up, grabbed the front of my shirt and jerked me towards her. I could feel the heat of her glare, so I opened my eyes to find her eyes had darkened with desire. Her response came out as a hiss.
“The only thought I am having right this second is that if you do not take me upstairs and finish what we started the night of the party, I will personally STAKE you with a silver spike.” The next thing I knew, she had ripped my shirt completely open and was running her hands over my now exposed chest.
I hauled her up, slamming my lips on hers and flew us both up to my master bedroom. I pretty much tossed her on the bed, and as I stalked towards her, step by step, we were both losing clothes at a very rapid pace. When I reached the edge of the bed, Jade beckoned with a crook of her finger and a sexy smirk on her face. I crawled up the bed and as I hovered over her body, I thanked every god that would listen for giving me such a beautiful creature to love. Sentiments aside, I leaned down and chuckled hotly in her ear.
“I hope you know I have wanted this to happen for a while. Are you ready for a workout? I know I am.”
I spent the rest of the night and following day making good on my promise.

Book 2 of the Blood Rose Series – Crimson Moon
Alex Brightmore thought he had it all.

A wonderful family as well as a beautiful woman who just agreed to marry him. Everything was perfect, until it all came grinding to a halt. After the mysterious disappearance of his bride-to-be and the gruesome deaths of his mother and twin sister, Alex was offered a chance to gain the ultimate gift.
Immortality was the gift.
The Catch? Spend eternity as a Vampire.
Now, as he shielded his heart and swore that he would never let himself fall in love again, he leaves the safety of London to start anew. But Fate had other plans for him. "Fate" came in the form of museum researcher Jade Stevens. They meet at a party and neither can deny the growing attraction between them. She realizes though, that to love him she must know all of him.
No matter what the cost may be.
However, hidden secrets and Jade's link to Alex's past haunt the pair, and a former lover from Jade's past puts her life in serious danger. To save the woman that he has fallen in love with, can he truly ignore this Twist of Fate?
Buy Links: Publisher/ Amazon / All Romance Ebooks /NovelNook

Excerpt for Crimson Moon:
He dropped my wrist, and turned around to face the downtown skyline. Seconds later, I heard a small growl come from Alex. I felt my breath catch in my throat as he turned back to face me. It was like the person in front of me now was a totally different person then who was standing in front of me not less than 30 seconds ago. Everything about him now had an air of dark masculine power. The biggest difference was his eyes. I looked into his eyes and was mesmerized. Alex trapped me in his gaze and held me there. His eyes were a dark violet, with an outer ring of light grey, almost silvery. He had this smirk on his lips, that if I didn’t know any better, was almost predatory in nature. This was all before he opened his mouth to speak. Good God, that voice! I swear if I wasn’t already enthralled by his eyes, then his voice would do me in. I suddenly fought the urge to swoon.
His voice had dropped at least two octaves and was raspy, rough, almost like coarse sand.
“Is this what you wanted, Jade? Take a good look because this is the true me; the hunter, the predator, hell, I’m the top of the food chain.” As he was talking, he moved around behind me, whispering in one ear then in the other. He now had this bold swagger about his walk that wasn’t there before. It was almost like he owned the place. While I was listening to him, I could feel him sliding one arm around my waist and his other hand trailing down my cheek, burning my skin along the way. I knew at that point, if he didn’t have his arm wrapped around me, my legs would have given out from under me for sure. There was only one word to describe what was going on.
It was torture.
Specifically; slow, erotic and predatory torture. Thing was, I was helpless to stop it. Everything about him at that moment had me rooted in place, powerless. Yet I still wasn’t scared of him. Even seeing his true nature up close and personal didn’t frighten me. He stepped from behind to face me once again. As Alex faced me, within a blink of an eye, he had pulled me to him, crushing my soft body to his steel chest and pulling my right arm up to his lips.
“If you’re trying to scare me, Alex, it’s not working.” He just smiled and brushed his nose against the back of my wrist. “Oh, I know it’s not working, Jade, darling. Actually, it’s doing quite the opposite. But, if I wanted to have you, there would be nothing that could stop me from taking you. You forget, Jade, I can sense emotions and right now, I have you completely defenseless. I could take you into that cozy bedroom of yours and after a very satisfying night…”

About the Author:
Samantha Drane is a paranormal romance author that was born in Victoria, BC, spent most of her young adult life on the Canadian Prairies and now currently resides in Halifax, Nova Scotia with her husband of nearly 7 years, their two daughters and three cats. When she's not writing, she's spending quality time with her young family, taking photos with her 35mm film camera, or watching her Edmonton Oilers and Edmonton Eskimos on television.
When she was younger, her best friends had always told her that she had so much untapped creativity and it would drive her crazy if she couldn't find an outlet for it. She admitted that
the inspiration for Twist of Fate came from a month's worth of dreams.
Her first two books in the Blood Rose Series, Twist of Fate and Crimson Moon are being published through No Boundaries Press. Twist of Fate (Part 1) was released in February 2012 and Crimson Moon (Part 2) was released in April 2012. Currently she's working on three new projects.
Website / Blog

Beastly: Lindy's Diary

Beastly: Lindy's Diary by Alex Flinn

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


LOVED!!! For so many reasons.

This is essentially Beastly told from Lindy's point of view. Its written in diary form which gives us such an insight into her character. We get not only what goes on in the story but also her thoughts and emotions not only about Adrian/Kyle but also about her life before with her father. We learn a lot about her background and what she has been through before coming to live with Adrian/Kyle. We also see how coming to live with him has affected her.

I really loved this novella. Its so full of emotion that there were times I almost cried. I would recommend this to anyone that enjoyed Beastly. It can be enjoyed without reading Beastly but I assure you that if you read one you will want to read the other. Also, I am one that really likes books written in diary form, so if you do too you should try this one.



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The Dragonslayer Series

Resa Nelson’s 4-book Dragonslayer series:

Thanks to author Resa Nelson for sending us this wonderful interview with Taddeo from her Dragonslayer series
 

Synopsis for The Dragonslayer’s Sword (Book 1)

For Astrid, a blacksmith who makes swords for dragonslayers, the emergence of a strange gemstone from her body sets in motion a chain of events that threaten to destroy her life. Her happiness is shattered when her lover--the dragonslayer--disappears without a trace, and the life that she knows and loves implodes without warning.
Astrid lives in a world of shapeshifters whose thoughts have the power to change not only themselves but others. Everything Astrid knows to be true is called into question when she learns the truth about her past and the mysterious family from which she was separated as a child.
Reality turns inside out as Astrid gradually learns the truth about the people she loves as well as those she disdains. With the fate of dragons, ghosts, and slaves in foreign lands resting on her shoulders, Astrid faces the challenge of deciding who she is and how she will stand up inside her own skin. Will she withdraw and hide from the world that has disappointed her so much...or will she rise to lead others to freedom and peace?

Synopsis for The Iron Maiden (Book 2)

Astrid is reluctant to travel the winter route beyond the Northlands, even though it’s
her duty. She’d rather stay home in her village, surrounded by friends and neighbors. Ignoring the bonds of tradition, she decides to spend the cold winter months in the warmth of her blacksmithing shop. Why should she leave the comfort of her cottage to serve and protect foreigners who might raid and harm her native Northlands?
Everything changes when a traveling merchant steals Starlight, the first dragonslayer’s sword Astrid forged and her last link to her sweetheart DiStephan. Having no time to alert her friends, Astrid races in pursuit of the merchant, determined to reclaim Starlight as her own and return home in time for dinner. Instead, her quest leads her to new lands, unexpected friendships with foreigners, and a harrowing encounter with the damage done by the followers of a new god that considers women as nothing more than servants to men. All the while, she must be ready to face any dragon traveling the winter route.
In Book 2 of the Dragonslayer series, Astrid must learn that deciding who she is isn’t a decision she can make just once. It’s a decision she must make every day.

Synopsis for The Stone of Darkness (Book 3)

In Book 3 of the Dragonslayer series, Astrid accepts her duty and follows the winter route--until she's bitten by a dragon. Everyone knows dragon bites are poisonous and deadly, so she reluctantly accepts her impending death. In a twist of fate, she survives. Desperate for an explanation, Astrid believes she has somehow been protected by the black stone she keeps with her at all times, a stone that emerged from the sole of her foot a year ago.

Determined to find out what the stone is and what kind of powers it possesses, Astrid begins a journey that leads her to alchemists and an army of men under the rule of the powerful warrior, Mandulane, the acting lord of the Krystr army. Mandulane's mission is to spread the word of the new god Krystr, which preaches the evil intent of women and the danger they pose to all men, who are entitled to dominate the world. Rumors about this new god and army have spread, but Astrid is the first Northlander to encounter them.

Soon, she stumbles upon a secret of a far-reaching and mind-numbing plot that will impact the entire world. Astrid must find a way to spread the news of this threat and protect her people and everyone else at risk. She's convinced the answer lies inside the Stone of Darkness, and she must find a way to understand the stone and the powers she's convinced it must hold before it's too late.

Synopsis for The Dragon’s Egg (Book 4)

In the fourth and final book of the Dragonslayer series, Mandulane’s army is poised to
attack the Northlands in the name of a powerful god, but in truth Mandulane is using the act of spreading this new faith as a way to disguise his own personal greed and hunger for power.
Astrid has succeeded in warning her beloved country of imminent danger, and the Northlanders scramble to set up a clever defense, never realizing a spy in their midst is poised to take critical information directly to Mandulane.
After sacrificing herself in order to set her brother Drageen free for the sake of protecting the Northlands, Astrid finds herself controlled by the stone of light. Although it forces her path of destiny, Astrid learns she must make one final choice about who she wants to be.
Most important of all, her new sweetheart Trep encounters a dragon that entrusts him with the care of a dragon’s egg. Trep embraces a dangerous journey and accepts the duty of protecting the unhatched dragon, knowing that its safety could impact the fate of the entire world.

Interview with Taddeo, a dragon in the Dragonslayer Series

Q:  Thank you for joining us today.  You look like a man, but is it true that you’re actually a dragon?

Taddeo:  That is correct.  As a true dragon, I can decide to appear as a man or I can decide to appear as a dragon.  At this moment, I choose to appear as a man.  You might call me a shapeshifter.

Q:  The world you live in is full of dragons.  Are all dragons like you?

Taddeo:  The world may be full of dragons, but there are fewer dragons now than in the past.  And most dragons are not like me.  They are overgrown lizards.  The mortals have a legend that says dragons were once small lizards that became overly impressed with themselves and grew enormous so that they could  live up to the way they perceived themselves.  Perhaps the legend is true.

Q:  Are the overgrown lizards shapeshifters, too?

Taddeo:  No, they are simple animals.  Extremely dangerous, but simple.  They live to eat and are in constant search of food.  They eat crops that mortals grow, as well as mortals themselves.  It is no wonder that dragonslayers have such great importance.  You might be surprised to know that I have befriended more than one dragonslayer.  Because of the importance of true dragons, a special bond exists between dragons and dragonslayers.

Q:  Does that mean that dragonslayers kill overgrown lizards but they don’t kill true dragons?

Taddeo:  That is correct.  True dragons are here for very specific reasons, and if we reveal information about ourselves then our purpose is ruined.  Therefore, I can say little else about our nature.

Q:  One of the first people you meet is Astrid, who’s a blacksmith – and she makes swords and other weapons for dragonslayers!  You had your own reasons for wanting to meet her.  Did anything about her surprise you?

Taddeo:  Yes.  Astrid is the most important mortal to me for many reasons.  I needed her to achieve my own wishes, and yet I couldn’t help but feel sorry for what I had done.  I decided to help her, and during this time I came to know her and become quite fond of her.  She has surprised me many times because of the decisions she makes and how she comes to make them.  She is quite an unusual mortal, and it is my great pleasure to know her despite the fact that we have had many ups and downs.

Q:  You also have a unique friendship with Astrid’s sweetheart DiStephan, who is a dragonslayer.  How would you describe that friendship?

Taddeo:  Our friendship has been very eventful in many different ways.  It became necessary to confide in DiStephan to acquire his help, and he understands things about true dragons that are kept secret from all other mortals, including Astrid.  I realize this has been difficult for him, especially when I have taken action that would horrify or revolt other mortals.  Because DiStephan has a deep understanding of who we are and our purpose, he knows sacrifices must be made for the greater good.  But some of those sacrifices have been very painful and difficult for him to witness.

Q:  Some readers might see you as a hero while others see you as a villain.  And some might see you as both!  How do you see yourself?

Taddeo:  I see myself as a dragon.  Like any living creature, I must do whatever is necessary to survive.  In the end, you will understand why this is important not only to myself but to all others.  When you know what I know, you may still struggle to define me as a hero or villain, but you will know why I have done everything I have done and why my actions and decisions have been so important.

 

About the Author

Resa Nelson’s first novel, The Dragonslayer’s Sword, was nominated for the Nebula Award and was also a Finalist for the EPPIE Award. This medieval fantasy novel is based on a short story first published in the premiere issue of Science Fiction Age magazine and ranked 2nd in that magazine's first Readers Top Ten Poll. The Dragonslayer's Sword is Book 1 in her 4-book Dragonslayer series, which also includes The Iron Maiden (Book 2), The Stone of Darkness (Book 3), and The Dragon’s Egg (Book 4).
Resa's standalone novel, Our Lady of the Absolute, is a fantasy/mystery/thriller about a modern-day society based on ancient Egypt. Midwest Book Review gave this book a 5-star review, calling it "a riveting fantasy, very highly recommended."
She has been selling fiction professionally since 1988. She is a longtime member of SFWA (Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America) and is a graduate of the Clarion SF Workshop. Resa was also the TV/Movie Columnist for Realms of Fantasy magazine for 13 years and was a contributor to SCI FI magazine. She has sold over 200 articles to magazines in the United States and the United Kingdom.


Resa lives in Massachusetts. Visit her website here.


Resa Nelson’s links:

Free “mini” ebook of Dragonslayer short stories
GoodReads giveaway
Facebook page
Twitter: @ResaNelson
Email: ContactResa@aol.com
Ebooks ($4.99 each) are available directly from Mundania Press (get a 10% discount at checkout with the coupon code MP10)
Paperbacks are available from Mundania Press(get a 10% discount at checkout with the coupon code MP10), Amazon, and Barnes&Noble

The Dragon's Egg

The Dragon's Egg by Resa Nelson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Such a bittersweet ending to a wonderful series.

We continue to follow Astrid as she makes the decision to release her brother from Dragon's Head. Astrid takes his place only to realize she herself isn't dead. Trep, realizing she is gone, begins his search for her and finds someone he does not expect. Given a quest of his own he must make the decision to let Astrid follow her own path.

Being the last in this series there were so many questions that needed answers. So many lives we wanted to know what happened to. Nelson does an excellent job of tying up all these loose ends. We finally come to understand the essence of the Dragons that inhabited Tower Island and how Astrid and her brother are connected to them. We also get the background for the enemy Mandulane. We see what happened in his childhood to make him the monster that he became.

The ending was not something that I had expected. Without giving any spoilers, I'll just say that the war didn't go as I had thought that it would. Trep's quest in itself was bittersweet. And Astrid got what she didn't know she really wanted. I know that in life there are never any fairytale endings. And compromise and closure are important. But I will admit, in my reading I am a sucker for a happy, happy ending.

Overall, I really enjoyed this read. It was a fitting end to this great series. If you have read the other books in the Dragonslayer Series you will want to read this one. And if you haven't read them then you should check them out.

I recieved a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.



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Morigan

Morrigan Giveaway

Author Laura DeLuca is giving away an amazing swag pack for her upcoming blog tour in February!

Title: Morrigan

Author: Laura DeLuca

Pages: 320

Book Description:

Shuffled from place to place in the foster system, Morrigan doesn't know the meaning of home. Plus, she is different. She has power over fire, the ability to move objects with her mind, and glimpse into the future. Just when she believes her life can’t get any stranger, she discovers her true identity.

Filtiarn, a knight with a dark past and a surprising secret, has been tasked with guiding the heir of Tír na NÓg through countless perils to be returned to her family. Once Morrigan has been reunited with her mother and grandmother, their triad can save the forgotten land of magic from being devoured by an ancient evil.

Here is what you can win:

A signed print copy of Morrigan, wooden jewelry box, Morrigan's Enchantment bath salts created by The Sister's Elemental, sage smudge stick, three rough crystal points, a green polished crystal pendant, a pewter triquetra pendant, and a gift set of incense with a leaf shaped incense burner.

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Chosen

Today is the release day of the third and final installment of the Daughters of the Sea trilogy, Chosen!

Title: Chosen (Daughters of the Sea 3)

Author: Kristen Day

Publisher: Self Published

Blurb:

The essence of who we are lies not in what we have, but in what we are willing to give up. Because in the end, Time and Tide wait for no one.

After sacrificing all that she had, the evil princess of the Underworld is still successful in her bid to tear Finn from Stasia’s life. In the midst of her search to reclaim him, Stasia is summoned to the island nation of Cyprus to take part in an age-old ritual; unveiling the missing pieces of her ancestry and re-igniting an ancient war. As she struggles to both save Finn’s soul and free Carmen’s mind, Stasia’s bravery and determination will be pushed to its breaking point. A dark storm is forming on the horizon, and the forces who are vying to destroy her may be much closer than she thinks. Destiny weaves a sticky web of evil, betrayal, and revenge that can only be undone by the purity of love and the soul’s unyielding will to survive. In the last installment of the Daughters of the Sea trilogy, the past will collide with the present as Stasia’s future hangs in the balance. The prophecy that paved the way for her new life may indeed be the very thing that strips her of the ones she loves the most.

Prologue

A crisp, biting wind swirled through the open window; lifting the thin sheet draped over his aching body. The night surrounding his isolated room was dark and still when the roar of the ocean’s waves was interrupted by an entrancing melody. The full moon shone into his tired eyes as they cracked open at the faint singing; its silver glow pulling at his conscious. He wrapped the tattered sheet around his body and slowly made his way to the window. The night sky above glittered with the dancing of stars, while the radiance of the moon highlighted the rolling waves below.

The bubbling surf raced up the beach until its energy was spent; tugging on the sand and rocks below as it retreated once again. The cool breeze swept through his white beard as he squinted his eyes at the beach below. With each fallen wave, the glow became brighter. Hundreds of magnificent blue lights sparkled within the water, creating a magical blanket of effervescence along the water’s edge. He had only seen this phenomenon once before. Many, many years ago. It was a type of plankton that glistened a beaming blue when it became stirred up; however, he knew that it was typically found farther out in the ocean. Its unexpected arrival on land had his suddenly guarded eyes scanning the beach. That’s when he saw her.

The sheer white fabric of her flowing dress drifted in the breeze as she glided in a wide circle, dancing and spinning with a power he could feel down in the core of his tired soul. She was spellbinding and beautiful. And deadly. The captivating symphony of her voice cascaded down the stone walls of his prison and whirled around the crescent shaped beach below. Her wild, curly dark hair was accentuated by streaks of silver as it blew around her pale face. Eyes closed, her skin shimmered silver in the light of the moon above while she continued her trancelike dance. Loose silver ribbons lifted from her wrists, ankles, and hair where they were loosely secured. They created an illusion of fire; its sparkling flames shooting up into the air and around its writhing center. He shook his head and closed his eyes to snap himself out of her allure.

As the singing faded slightly, he looked on as she stopped twirling and raised her thin arms into the air with closed fists. She tilted her head back; her dark hair falling down her back, her body now fully embraced by the moonlight. She herself emanated an eerie glow. She wasn’t just dancing amongst the night; she was a part of the night. The moonlight that caressed her angelic face also shone from within. She stood perfectly still for what seemed like hours, while the ever moving world around her continued on its pace. Finally, she slowly dropped her arms and flashed open her palms. What appeared to be small crystals scattered around her onto the sand. They shimmered and flickered as they brightened further.

She raised her arms again very slowly, making the circle of crystals hover in the air around her. As they began to spin, they took on the appearance of a solid ring of light. Her arms continued to lift, taking the ring of light higher and higher. A bright flash caught him by surprise and he stumbled backwards; shielding his face. After regaining his balance, he approached the window once more; only to see the ring of light had disappeared as well as the glowing plankton. All that remained was her.

She stood rigid and silent as the surf swept over her feet and rushed back toward the waves. She began to sway gently from side to side and he realized how innocent she looked. Her small stature was a reminder of who she used to be, but he knew better. He knew what she was capable of. In a flash, she twisted her head; locking him in her chilling glare. The startling silver of her eyes chilled him to the bone and had him slowly backing away from the window. Amongst the dark shadows of his room, he stared at the long ray of light cast across the floor by the moon. He knew what her witching hour display meant. He knew it with certainty. A creeping cold slithered up his spine and squeezed his heart. They were running out of time.

About Kristen Day

Kristen Day is a southern belle at heart with a crazy streak that desperately tries to escape at every opportunity. She loves all things nostalgic, rustic, and quirky. She’s been told she sees the world through rose-colored glasses, but she prefers to think of them as kaleidoscope glasses - swirling and morphing reality into something she can digest (who hasn't pretended those pasty lima beans were really kiwi strawberry jelly beans?).

She is the author of the DAUGHTERS OF THE SEA trilogy, which includes FORSAKEN, AWAKEN (Oct 2012), and CHOSEN (Winter 2012). She loves all books, but really enjoys writing young adult, paranormal romances. She’s loved to write for as long as she can remember. Her first published work was her poem RED in second grade (you guessed it - it was a poem about the color red - life altering, right?) that won her 5 gold stars and a spot in her elementary school's poetry book. That's when her addiction to the written word officially began. She was the only kid in fifth grade that actually enjoyed diagramming sentences. Go ahead and laugh - its okay.

When she’s not writing she’s making jewelry, painting, feeding her addiction to sweet tea, watching the Discovery Channel, or going on random adventures in the mountains of North Carolina with her amazing husband. She was born in Boone, NC and graduated from Appalachian State University with a degree in Marketing in 2001.

Author’s Links

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The Inheritance

The Inheritance

Zillah Anderson

Kaylee has one night to re-connect with her ailing father, but they don’t have much to talk about. Inspired, she decides to read him a story that eerily mirrors their relationship. She wants to bury the hatchet so badly, but all she can remember are the pranks Zachary pulled and in an attempt to make parenthood interesting. But long ago Kaylee learned his Achilles heel, the one silly object that could undo him and change the balance in their relationship. Should she use it? Will she? Find out what happens when love and forgiveness become twisted by anger, retaliation, and disconnect.
Buy Links: No Boundaries Press / Amazon /
Barnes & Noble / Smashwords / NovelNook

About the Author:
Never one to run from uncomfortable and unusual subject matter, Zillah Anderson is an author of the speculative, the dark, and the sexy – and sometimes all three at once. She is the author of The Inheritance and the young adult title Knocking Down Heaven’s Door with No Boundaries Press, the erotic short Power Chord with Rebel Ink Press, and has also had her work included in the Wicked East Press Anthology Halloween Frights vol. III. She resides in the Midwest, loves all things crafty and nerdy, and writes while she bides her time for her true purpose: total world domination.
Blog / Facebook / Twitter

Excerpt:
“‘Forgive?” he finally wheezed and Katherine was surprised he actually acknowledged that there was a wall between them. She forced her lips into something that was a cross between a tender smile and a wince.’”
“‘Come on, Dad. It’s not like you did anything bad. We just never really clicked. There are far worse relationships.’”
“‘The clearing of a phlegm-coated throat tugged the young woman from her thoughts. “Forgive?” Zane asked again.’”

Young Adult Giveaway Hop

Young Adult Giveaway Hop

January 29th - February 4th

Co-hosted by BookLove101

 

Its time once again for another giveaway hop. Up for grabs is my copy of Cinder by Marissa Meyer and you can find my review here. This giveaway is open internationally and, as always, its not a requirement that you follow my blog but its always appreciated.

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Jack Templar Monster Hunter Book Blast

Tour Schedule

Jack Templar: Monster Hunter



Orphan Jack Templar has no memory of his parents and only the smallest details from his Aunt Sophie about how they died. The day before Jack's fourteenth birthday, things start to change for him. At first it's great: A sudden new strength helps him defend his nose-picking friend "T-Rex" from the school bully, and even his crush, Cindy Adams, takes notice. But then a mysterious girl named Eva arrives and tells him two facts that will change his life forever. First, that he's the descendent of a long line of monster hunters and he's destined to be in the family business. Second, that there's a truce between man and monster that children are off-limits...until their fourteenth birthday! Jack has only one day before hundreds of monsters will descend on his little town of Sunnyvale and try to kill him.



As if that weren't enough, things get even more complicated when Jack discovers that the Lord of the Creach (as the monsters are collectively known) holds a personal grudge against him and will do anything to see that Jack has a slow and painful death. To stay alive and save his friends, Jack will have to battle werewolves, vampires, harpies, trolls, zombies and more. But perhaps the most dangerous thing he must face is the truth about his past. Why do the other hunters call him the last Templar? Why do they whisper that he may be the "One?" Why do the monsters want him dead so badly? Even as these questions plague him, he quickly discovers survival is his new full-time job and that in the world of monster hunters, nothing is really what it seems.

Author Jeff Gunhus



Jeff Gunhus grew up in Cyprus, Greece, and Saudi Arabia where there was a distinct lack of television. He quickly found books were the gateway to incredible adventures, fascinating characters and unbelievable discoveries. Now, with five children of his own (all who watch too much television, in his opinion), he has enjoyed revisiting his old books and reliving those adventures all over again.

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Kirkus Reviews



"Gunhus brings young readers a monster-filled romp to read at their own risk. In the first few pages, Jack, the storyteller and main character, warns readers not to read about these real-world monsters that would seem to only exist in fiction. The tone is set--sarcastic, tongue-in-cheek and likable; rooting for Jack is easy...Gunhus masterfully introduces fully realized characters with whom readers can connect almost instantly. The pacing is quick but not rushed, and events seamlessly progress, complete with action, cliff-hangers and surprise reveals. "



Amazon Reviews



Watch out Percy Jackson here comes Jack Templar

Move over Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, there's a new kid in town - Jack Templar, and he will take you on a wonderful adventure of good vs evil, with friends and enemies at every turn. The twists and turns keep the reader on a roller coaster of entertainment in the way of JK Rowling and Rick Riordan. ~ Penny Brein



Fast paced adventure through and through

Written for middle school aged students, this book is action-packed from the beginning and will hold the attention of young readers. Not only that, as an adult reader, it was hard to put down, so parents will enjoy it as an easy read. ~ bluejellybean



Kids will love it!

Not only will kids love it, adults will too! I don't want to give the plot away but this is a book worth reading. This book is creatively written drawing in the reader to be a participant in the story. There is lots of action with enough blood and guts to be interesting without being gross. Girls will like it too with the strong female role models and the hint of romance. Even though this is a children's book, I couldn't put it down. I will definitely be adding this to my classroom library. I am looking forward to reading the book in this series and sharing it with my students. Awesome book! ~ pixiep

Purchase

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Book Trailer

WARNING

Yeah, you read it right. I’m a monster hunter. Back before I actually became one, I would have thought that sounded totally awesome. And don’t get me wrong, in a lot of ways it is. But most of the time, I’m either running for my life or hiding in the shadows, praying the monster chasing me doesn’t pick up my scent. And I’m almost always scared to death. In a few pages, I think you’ll see why.

     But there are a few things I need to warn you about before I tell you my story.

     First, this isn’t a cartoon. These are bloodthirsty creatures who will stop at nothing to kill. They are scary. Very scary. Second, the only way to stop them is to kill them first…and that gets gross and messy. Third, this is all real.

     You think I’m kidding, don’t you? I can almost see you smirking as you read this. But this isn’t a joke. Monsters are real and the story I’m about to tell you really happened. If you’d rather walk through life believing that monsters are only found in books or on the movie screen, then you should shut this book right now and go do something else.

     I give you these warnings because the story I’m about to tell you isn’t for everyone. Not everyone can handle it. The blood. The gore. The monsters.

     This life was thrust onto me. I had no choice but to take up a sword and fight. But you can still walk away and pretend this dark world doesn’t exist. Or you can walk through the door that I’m about to open and find out the truth about the world around you.

     But I warn you (and this is a big warning), if you read this book, if you learn about the monsters that roam among us and the hunters who fight them, if you decide to learn the truth, then you will become fair game for the monsters to chase.

     Make sure you understand what I’m saying.

     If you read this book, you will be part of this world and the monsters will come after you too. You will start to see things that no other humans can see. The shadows will move when you walk near them. The creatures of the night will seek you out, testing the doors and windows of your house, looking for a way in.

     And, at some point, they will find you, just like they found me, and you will be forced to defend yourself.

     So, think carefully before you turn the page, because once you do, there’s no turning back.

     Ever.

     Once a monster hunter, always a monster hunter.

     See you on the other side.

     If you’re brave enough.












Blog Tour $50 Giveaway

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash + Swag

Ends 2/18/13

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.





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Sleeping Beauty Wakes in Hell

Sleeping Beauty Wakes in Hell by Kevin Richey

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I received a free copy of this ebook for my honest review.

This was by far my favorite in this series. Richey took the tale of Sleeping Beauty and gave it a wonderfully dark twist.

Philip and Princess Aurora knew each other as children in a world that was being encroached upon by the living dead. Aurora was taken by the Evil Queen and Philip grew up wondering if she was dead or alive. I loved the main characters in this one. The story of Philip and Aurora had a depth to them that was more than some of the previous stories. I also loved how former characters and other fairytale characters made appearances. And this one wasn't quite as gorey as some of the others.

All of the Zombie Fairytales have been wickedly fun reads, but this one was the best of all of them. I had hoped for a slightly different ending but I guess then it wouldn't have fit with the rest of the series. Overall, I loved this one and would suggest it to anyone who enjoys zombies.



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City of the Gods: The Descent

City of the Gods: The Descendant

S.J. McMillan

 

 

In 700 A.D. Teotihuacan, Mexico, the High Priest believed himself to be a powerful as

the gods. He set a plague on the city as a demonstration of his power. The Gods took pity on the remaining loyal congregation. They granted each survivor immortality and an extraordinary ability. Three loyal survivors were given a mission of great importance: train the lone human descendant of their civilization to stop the evil priest from damning the rest of humanity.
Now in San Diego, California, the time has come to finally make Katalina Deckard aware of her destiny. Her life has been a constant struggle since the loss of her parents when she was young. These struggles have made her a fighter, but she doesn’t believe they have prepared her to save the world. Her friends, who have survived for so long, must convince her that she has what it takes to accept the mantle of the Redeemer.

Release Date: November 16th, 2012
Genre: Urban fantasy



About the Author:
I live in Southwest Missouri with my super supportive husband and our three energetic

young rascals. I work as an administrative assistant during the week. Now I get to add published author to my list of roles I play in life.
Being an author was not my first career choice. In my younger years I wanted to be a dancer, but dance lessons are expensive! I also wanted to be Dolly Parton from The Best Little Whore House in Texas. I could really belt out Itty Bitty Piss Ant Country Place, just ask my parents, or their former neighbors.
After a slew of other interesting job choices, I just could not shake the writing bug I picked up in high school. I started writing poetry and still write a poem whenever inspiration hits me. I also love to read, especially paranormal romances and urban fantasies. The love of reading is what spawned the desire to try my hand at writing a novel of my very own.
I love creating the characters and giving them their own personalities and voices. I have also come to enjoy writing fight scenes. My husband (the wonderful man that he is) will act them out with me so I know exactly how I need to show it to the audience. Call us crazy if you like, but it's really fun to act out a scene using a broom handle as a spear and a foam baseball bat as an axe.
I hope you enjoy City of the Gods: The Descendant. The second book of the trilogy is being edited and I’m working on the third and final book now. I love to hear from fellow authors and readers. You can find me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mcmillansj, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/mcmillansj, or swing by my website at www.mcmillansj.com.

Website / Twitter / Facebook

Excerpt:
“Who did this?” Tristan asked quietly, almost more to himself than to Kat.
“Probably that bastard Ryan. He is going to pay for every last thing he demolished,” Kat replied, assuming Tristan was speaking about the chaos throughout the rest of the house. She stepped forward and looked around the room once more. It was then that she noticed the black flowers sitting on her dresser. Kat walked over and pulled the small white card from them. She opened the envelope to reveal a card with a beautiful picture of the same flower in white. Tristan came to stand behind her as she opened the card. It was a simple message, but one she would not soon forget.
I am coming for you.
Tristan plucked the card from her hand and reread it. Kat stood frozen in place, shocked and confused. Her mind raced with unanswerable questions. Who was coming for her? What did they want from her? Was this actually some sick joke Ryan was playing or was someone really coming to get her? Her stomach churned and her head began to pound. She doubled over in pain while fear of the unknown trespasser flooded her brain. It was all too overwhelming.
Kat hugged her arms around her stomach. Her legs gave out and she fell to her knees on the floor. A cold sweat broke on her forehead. Kat was almost glad when black spots started to swim in her vision. She tried to ask Tristan for help, but she could not find her voice. Dizziness engulfed her, and she felt herself begin to fall the rest of the way to the floor. Tristan caught her just before her head and the floor collided. She could barely hear his concerned voice calling her name as the blackness surrounded her.
“Katalina, open your eyes.” Tristan shook her a bit, hoping she would regain consciousness. Sabine and Vivian had heard the commotion, rushed into the room, and directly to Kat’s side. To Tristan’s great relief, Katalina’s eyes opened a crack, enough to see the intensely harsh gaze she gave him. Tristan looked to the girls, who looked equally surprised by her reaction.
“Katalina?” Tristan questioned.
“Leave her alone,” Katalina responded and her nearly black eyes closed once again.

In Jen's Words

In Jen's Words: Facing the Issues

Jennifer Brown

Jennifer and Justin Barnes have been raised by their older brother Jacob since they were teenagers…little did Jacob know, he was raising a third personality as well.
The Barnes have been through it all. The loss of their parents in a car crash, rape, and incarceration. But nothing could prepare them for what they are about to deal with.
When Jacob decides to run for mayor of Springwood, Ohio someone else decides to haunt him and his family, using his younger sister’s alter personality as leverage in their game.
After Jen’s mental disorder is made public, the first of many shocking revelations are made, including who her biological father really is. She is ordered into custody in the mental health wing of Springwood Memorial as a case is built against her for the murder of Davis Cauley, a former local news anchor
Jacob gets his sister released in time for the holidays, only for another murder to occur. The body of Brenda Sowers, Davis Cauley’s sister is found in Mercy Park, the same area where her brother was found—in a storage shed, with hedge clippers in his back, and Jen across from him with no memory of what happened.
More incriminating evidence links Jen to Brenda’s murder, as Black Friday looms. The big weekend draws Jacob to the mall, where he’s in for another surprise. A photo of his brother sent to his phone reveals another huge secret, involving all of Springwood.
As the Barnes recover from what has been a very turbulent Fall, other secrets are lurking and waiting to be revealed as a family faces a trial of issues to come.
Buy links: No Boundaries Press / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Smashwords

Spicy With a Side of Cranberry Sauce

Hi everyone, thanks so much for having me stop by today at the Bootheel Cotton Patch.

I’d like to talk about the must haves for in Romances, because as a romance author and reader, I think it’s an important thing to know.
So I was thinking the other day what the ten MUST HAVES in a Romance Book. And here’s what I came up with. Now, because I write predominately Male/Female groupings, some of my requirements might be a bit slanted toward that, so I figured I would preface this list with what every single-pair heterosexual romance needs. But for the most part, these can be applied across the board. And since I’m also here to talk a bit about my book, An Affair Across Times Square, I’ll share with you how my book fills these requirements.

5 – A Worthy Hero. Whether he’s alpha, or beta, or somewhere in between – he has to be worthy of the heroine’s love. His worth is characterized by what’s inside, not his wealth, or his status, or anything like that.

Fifty Shades of Alice in Wonderland

Fifty Shades of Alice in Wonderland by Melinda DuChamp

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


OMG! LOVE LOVE LOVE!

This read is by no means for everyone, but if you enjoy something a little on the twisted side than you gotta read this one.

This is an erotic parody of Alice in Wonderland. Alice follows a white rabbit vibrator down a rabbit hole and enters a Wonderland not from our childhood. Alice has encounters with various characters as she learns how her body can be pleasured and give pleasure to others. You can't take this too seriously. It is a parody and its all in good fun and Alice certainly has her share of fun.

If you are easily shocked, don't pick this one up. If you like things a bit on the twisted side then this is a must read. As for me, I loved it.



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The Darkest Minds

The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Wow, I have a lot of mixed feelings about this book. I would actually give this one 3.5 stars but it is a fun read so I will round it up to 4.

We meet Ruby who is in an internment camp and we have to wait to get her full story told as she looks back periodically into her past. She lives in a time where children either die from a mysterious disease or are mutated like with X-Men. Adults and the government are scared of the potential threat from the mutants and round them up and lock them away in horrible concentration camps with the lie of rehabilitation.

There is alot going on in this book. Ruby is broken out by an underground organization that claims to be trying to help the kids who she finds has alterior motives. She goes on the run and finds Lee and his group. There is action and adventure with a bit of the paranormal thrown in for spice. However, its all a bit predictable except for the ending (which I did not like). Without giving spoilers I'll just say that I think it could have plausibly ended differently.

Overall, I think its a good YA read. And I enjoyed the characters both the good and the bad. It is a bit on the dark side with the concentration camps and the abuse of the kids simply because they are different from no fault of their own. But if this genre intrests you at all I would say give this on a try.



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Blood on the Moon

Title: Blood on the Moon
Author: Cassiel Knight
Published: October 1, 2012
Publisher: Champagne Book Group
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Word Count: 85,000
Content: Minor Adult Content

Synopsis:
Mia Langdon—tomb raider and adventure-seeker—has everything she wants. Freedom. Independence. No chains (a.k.a. a man). Her troubles begin when she’s attacked on a dig in Peru. Soon, she’s forced to use her tomb raiding talents to find the flaming arrows of an Egyptian goddess. In the wrong hands, this weapon could destroy the human race—and nearly had.

Used to doing things her own way, it isn’t long before she figures out that she needs the help of Harrison Braden Stanton, her stuffy, but so yummy, Egyptologist and ex-lover. There’s one problem. He despises what she does. As Mia and Harrison find themselves in the middle of a battle between the Egyptian gods and goddess, there’s no choice for the woman with a Grand Canyon-sized independence streak and the man working for the Egyptian god, Osiris, but to work together to prevent the destruction of all they love.

Amazon | GoodReads

 

In the Red

In the Red

Selah Janel

What kind of a rock star lives in a small town in the middle of nowhere and plays at weddings and funerals? That’s what Jeremiah Kensington is thinking after an unsuccessful bar gig one night. Then Jack Scratch comes into his life, ready to represent him and launch him to stardom. Jack can give him everything: a new band, a new name, a new life, a new look, and new boots…although they aren’t exactly new. They once belonged to The One, a rocker so legendary and so mysterious that it’s urban legend that he used black magic to gain success. But what does Jeremiah care about urban legend? And it’s probably just coincidence that the shoes make him dance better than anyone, even if it doesn’t always feel like he’s controlling his movements. It’s no big deal that he plunges into a world of excess and decadence as soon as he puts the shoes on his feet, right?
But what happens when they refuse to come off?
Buy Links: Publisher / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Novelnook

Back to the Future Giveaway Hop

Back to the Future - A Giveaway Hop Across Time

January 22nd to 28th

Co-hosted by Book Haven Extraordinaire

Going back in time to the days of the Old Testament, up for grabs is Rahab's Story by Ann Burton. This is a historical fiction that I really enjoyed. It was actually hard to decide to part with it. This giveaway is open internationally and as usual its not a requirement that you follow my blog but its always appreciated.

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