Friday, September 28, 2018

#Excerpt: SWEET CHRISTMAS KISSES 5 by various authors


This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. The authors will be awarding a $10 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour. 


On sale for .99 https://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Christmas-Kisses-Beate-Boeker-ebook/dp/B07FN4KVWP/ref=sr_1_1


Fill your holiday stocking with love and 9 sweet romance novellas, from USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly, and award-winning authors. Sweet Christmas Kisses 5 brings you heartwarming contemporary romances that celebrate the joy of the season around the world, including in snowy Maine and the sun-kissed skies of Florida, the mountains of Colorado, small-town Illinois and South Carolina, New York to San Francisco, and even the glittering lights of Paris and the old-world charm of Florence. The Sweet Christmas Kisses 5 bundle features all-new, standalone novellas that will make you smile and fill your heart with the Christmas spirit.
***** 

Christmas With The Poker Group by Beate Boeker, USA Today Bestselling Author. After losing her beloved grandmother and getting dumped by her boyfriend, Sabrina is left feeling like Scrooge this Christmas. She makes a plan to survive the holidays in Florence, only to realize her grieving grandfather has a plan of his own. One that involves the crazy Mantoni family and the distractingly handsome man she’s determined to avoid. It’s beginning to look a lot like a tricky Christmas.

About the Author: Beate Boeker is a USA Today bestselling author with a passion for books that brim over with mischief & humor. She writes sweet, sophisticated romantic fiction and cozy mysteries, many of them set in beautiful Italy. While “Boeker” means “books” in a German dialect, her first name Beate can be translated as “Happy” . . . and with a name that reads “Happy Books,” what else could she do but write novels with a happy ending?

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Beate-Boeker-153573758044433/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BeateBoeker
Website: http://www.happybooks.de/ Newsletter: http://www.happybooks.de/newsletter

*****

Christmas With The Carmichaels by Christine Bush, USA Today Bestselling Author. Widow and retiree Gabby is ready for a rocking chair. At least according to her daughter. Except maybe she’s not. After getting stranded in a Maine snowstorm with a silver-haired fox, Gabby might find the courage to say “yes” to life once more, and find a Christmas love she never expected.

About the Author: Christine Bush is an award-winning author of many sweet romances, mysteries, and novellas. When she’s not writing, she can be found teaching Psychology at a local college, working as a Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice, or (mostly) spending time with her twelve grandchildren.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christineabush
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Christine_Bush
Website: http://christinebush.com

*****

The Mistletoe Bachelor Auction by Milou Koenings, USA Today bestselling author. When a supermodel with a string of bad news boyfriends “wins” a volunteer firefighter at a charity bachelor auction, Rose and Ryan might both discover they’ve found their perfect Christmas match. A fun and romantic holiday tale set in the fictional town of Green Pines, Illinois.

About the Author: USA Today bestselling author Milou Koenings writes heartwarming romance novels because sweet stories with happy endings are like chocolate – they bring joy to the world and so make it a better place. She’s lived all over the world, working as an editor and newspaper columnist, but loves staying home with her family most of all. She's the author of the Green Pines Romance series.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MilouKoenings
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MilouKoenings
Website: https://www.miloukoenings.com
Newsletter: http://bit.ly/milousnewletter

*****

Sweet Peppermint Kisses by Josie Riviera, USA Today Bestselling Author. Sometimes the best gifts are hiding right under your Christmas tree. His emotions were once trampled flat. Can he throw his heart over the fence toward the ultimate Christmas gift—a future filled with love? A holiday tale about the healing power of love, set in the charming fictional town of Cherish, South Carolina.

About the Author: Author Josie Riviera writes Historical, Inspirational, and Sweet Romances. She lives in the Charlotte, NC, area with her wonderfully supportive husband. They share their empty nest with an adorable Shih Tzu who constantly needs grooming and an old house forever needing renovations. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Josie.Riviera
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Josieriviera
Website: https://josieriviera.com/

*****

Christmas In Paris by Roxanne Rustand, USA Today Bestselling Author. Kindergarten teacher Heather thought all her dreams were coming true—until she was jilted by her fiancé three months before their Christmas wedding. Since the honeymoon to Paris is already paid for, Heather determines to go sans groom and have a great time, no matter what. Love is not part of her travel plans, but when a handsome young doctor literally runs into her on the street, the magic of Christmas in Paris may cause a change of heart.

About the Author: USA Today bestselling author Roxanne Rustand is the author of thirty-five traditionally published novels, plus four indie novels. She was a Golden Heart finalist twice, and a Golden Heart winner in 1995. She has won two RT Magazine Reviewers’ Choice Awards, and was nominated for an RT Magazine Career Achievement Award. Her earlier books were secular, but she now writes sweet indie romance, and inspirational romance for Love Inspired.

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Roxanne.Rustand
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RoxanneRustand
Website: http://www.roxannerustand.com
Newsletter: http://roxannerustand.com/newsletter-signup

*****

Second Chance Christmas by Kristin Wallace, USA Today Bestselling Author. Ten years ago, Mia Reynolds and Win Barrington spent one magical Christmas together—until lies and manipulation tore them apart, and left Mia to raise a daughter all on her own. Now, both are back in their hometown of Palm Cove, Florida just in time for the holidays. Once they uncover the truth about what happened, can Mia and Win rediscover love and celebrate a Second Chance Christmas with their daughter?

About the Author: Kristin Wallace is a USA Today bestselling author of inspirational, contemporary and women’s fiction filled with “Love, Laughter and a Leap of Faith.” Her popular series include the Covington Falls Chronicles and Shellwater Key Tales.

Facebook: http://facebook.com/KristinWallaceAuthor
Twitter: http://twitter.com/KWallaceAuthor
Website: http://kristinwallaceauthor.com
Newsletter: https://www.instafreebie.com/free/wMWhn

*****

Ghosts From Christmas Past by Mary Alford, Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling Author. She was the love of his life, until a tragic accident on Christmas Eve left Charlotte Swenson in a coma. For eight years, Sheriff Dylan Parker of Bitter Creek, Colorado has held on to the hope that somehow his love will find a way back to him. And when Charlotte opens her eyes, just days before Christmas, Dylan can’t help but believe a holiday miracle may grant his every wish.

About the Author: Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author Mary Alford was inspired to become a writer after reading such romantic suspense greats as Victoria Holt and Phyllis Whitney. Creating characters and throwing them into dangerous situations that test their faith was a challenge, but 2012 Mary received “the call” to publish her first book — a dream come true. Today, Mary writes Christian romantic suspense, and small-town contemporary romances.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaryAlfordAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/maryalford13
Website: http://maryalford.net

*****

Christmas Pizza To The Rescue by Jean C. Gordon. When a freak winter storm strands them alone at the Team Macachek barracks in Central New York, champion motocross racer Royce Evans and out-of-work investigative reporter turned pizza deliverer Samantha Linder strike a bargain that benefits them both. But when it appears Sam has broken the agreement, will the spirit of Christmas be strong enough to save their blossoming holiday love?

About the Author: Award-winning sweet and inspirational author Jean C. Gordon writes what she knows best — small-town, happily-ever-afters set in her native Upstate New York.

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JeanCGordon.Author
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeanCGordon
Website: https://www.jeancgordon.com/
Newsletter: http://bit.ly/2wFYzPq

*****


The Love Clause by Liwen. Y. Ho. He needs a fake girlfriend to advance his career. She needs a pretend date to keep her mom off her case during the holidays. The solution to both of their problems? A contractual relationship with one clause: neither of them can fall in love. A Christmas tale set in romantic San Francisco that will cause this reluctant couple to rethink the “no love” clause.

About the Author: Liwen Y. Ho writes sweet and inspirational romance infused with heart, humor, and a taste of home (her Asian roots). She lives in California with her family and blogs about life as a recovering perfectionist.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/2square2behip/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/2square2behip
Website: http://www.2square2behip.com/
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/bt2nEL

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Wednesday, September 26, 2018

#Excerpt: LIAR LIAR by Nancy Boyarsky


This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Nancy Boyarsky will be awarding a $15 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.


Nicole Graves finds herself in the crosshairs when she reluctantly agrees to babysit a witness in a high-profile rape trial. Mary Ellen Barnes is suing her university’s star quarterback for rape when the authorities won’t act. In the court of public opinion, Mary Ellen appears to be the quintessential, pious, good girl. But her lies and mysterious comings and goings lead Nicole to suspect that she’s not what she seems.

Excerpt:

Nicole called Detective Martinez. They agreed to meet at the morgue in an hour.

Nicole brushed her teeth, washed her face, and dabbed on some lipstick. Once she was in the car, she headed for the Hollywood Freeway, which would take her to East L.A. and Boyle Heights, where the morgue was located. She prayed that it was a mistake, that this body wasn’t Mary Ellen.

The coroner’s office had moved since Nicole’s visit years before. It was now housed in a grim, three-story building that loomed over several smaller wooden structures in the same complex. Nicole had read somewhere that the main building had once been Los Angeles General Hospital. With its brick façade, dingy gingerbread trim, and cupola-topped entry, it looked like a nineteenth-century madhouse.

She got out of the car and climbed the stairs to the entrance. She told a man at the front desk that she was meeting Detective Martinez, and he asked her to take a seat. The lobby was enormous, dimly lit, and filled with rows of wooden benches. They reminded her of the seating in a church, and she wondered if services had once been held here. More likely, it served as the old hospital’s waiting room. She perched on one of the benches; it was hard and cold. A notice on the wall said that the use of mobile devices was prohibited, and she dutifully turned off her phone.

The building was cool, and, to Nicole’s relief, the only discernable smell was a mixture of disinfectant and floor wax. It made her wonder where they kept the bodies—perhaps in one of the out buildings. The huge, gloomy room gave her a sense of unreality. This couldn’t have happened. Mary Ellen couldn’t possibly be lying in cold storage somewhere nearby.

About the Author:
Nancy Boyarsky is the bestselling author of the award-winning Nicole Graves Mysteries. Before turning to mysteries, Nancy coauthored Backroom Politics, a New York Times notable book, with her husband, Bill Boyarsky. She has written several textbooks on the justice system as well as articles for publications including the Los Angeles Times, Forbes, and McCall’s. She also contributed to political anthologies, including In the Running, about women’s political campaigns. In addition to her writing career, she was communications director for political affairs for ARCO.

Liar Liar is the third Nicole Graves novel, following The Swap and The Bequest, each of which can be read as a stand alone. Readers are invited to connect with Nancy through her website.

Website: http://www.nancyboyarsky.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9020987.Nancy_Boyarsky
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nancyboyarsky

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Liar-Nicole-Graves-Mysteries/dp/161153254X
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/liar-liar-nancy-boyarsky/1127685241

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Tuesday, September 25, 2018

#Review: ONCE A SCOUNDREL by Mary Jo Putney


  4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed the adventure of this book. Lady Aurora 'Rory' Lawrence and her cousin Constance are out on their own seeing the world. The premise is a bit far fetched for a gently-bred lady of 1815 and the fact that her parents and brother allowed her such independence didn't seem to fit into the times. The adventure ends when Rory's ship and everyone on board is taken prisoner by pirates. Captain Gabriel Hawkins is hired to rescue them. Hawkins carries his own baggage when he was kicked out of the Navy and disowned by his grandfather. This sets up a grand adventure when Gabriel makes a deal to carry the pirate Malek and entourage to Constantinople.

The action in the story kept the plot moving forward and especially liked Gabriel. His courage and honor shines bright. I found Rory a little annoying when she doesn't seem to understand the consequences of being sold into a harem. The romance between these two seemed a little rushed. However, I really liked the secondary romance budding between Constance and Jason. Fans of adventure and romance will enjoy this book.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review and was not obligated to leave a review.


Monday, September 24, 2018

#Excerpt: THE BOSS by Abigail Owen


The Boss
Abigail Owen
(Fire’s Edge #1)
Published by: Entangled: Amara
Publication date: September 24th 2018
Genres: Adult, Paranormal, Romance

Finn Conleth leads his team of enforcer dragon shifters with an iron fist and a cold heart. Every dragon seeks his destined mate, but the process to turn the woman he once thought was his killed her and devastated him. He will never risk his heart again. His team is his family now. When his body eventually gives out, he’ll leave, living his last days alone.
Delaney Hamilton moved across the country to escape the freak fires that plague her. But when another suspicious fire erupts and rapidly escalates around her, her hopes for a new life go up in smoke. She has no choice but to turn to the mysterious men who come to her aid.
Finn knows the fire is dragon-caused, which puts Delaney’s problems directly in his jurisdiction. No matter how her wounded grey eyes call to every part of him, he refuses to risk her life in the mating process.
Until another dragon threatens to claim Delaney for his own, and Finn has to sacrifice everything to keep her alive…



EXCERPT:
No way was she misinterpreting the need reflecting back at her.
Say it, she silently urged. Too proud to beg out loud. Do something.
“What do you want, Finn?” she repeated.
Please.
He tipped his head down, though his gaze remained on her, but the light in those blue depths shifted, turning from banked need, held ruthlessly in check, to a possessiveness that drew her body into aching awareness.
He pulled lightly on her wrist, drawing her across what had been an impassable chasm of space, until she was flush against his hard body. His other hand came under the fall of her hair to rest against her neck.
She didn’t look away, not even as he lowered his head, his movement agonizingly slow. His mouth only a whisper from hers, he stopped.
“You,” he said. “I want you.”
Finally. She had no idea if she closed the distanced between their lips or if he did. She only knew that she was getting exactly what she wanted.
Sensation forced her eyes closed as the heat of him seeped into her skin, her body flushing with it, swamping her senses. Their tongues tangled, his mouth hard and urgent against hers, like he couldn’t get enough, like he needed to possess her. The speed of her body’s reaction was so fast, so immediate, that she went dizzy with the need, like looking over the edge of a terrifying drop.
She was too out of her element, too out of control, but she didn’t want to stop. She wanted more.
He released her wrist, wrapping his arm around her waist, her softness yielding to his hard body as he held her closer. At the same time, he loosened his grip on her neck, brushing over the sensitive skin at her nape with his fingers.
Shards of electricity zapped from that simple touch directly to her core, which throbbed in response. At the same time, warmth from that touch spread through her on a wave of a feeling akin to total acceptance. Like this was where she was supposed to be. A low moan dragged from her mouth as he lifted her, just enough that it put him in complete control. He slipped a thigh between her legs, then pressed her down.
Holy hell.
Delaney leaned into him, her body softening into his, attuned to what his wicked hands and lips were doing to her even as her heart beat fast has hummingbird’s wings just to be in his arms. She arched into him, moving against him with a moan.
His hand slid under her shirt and he brushed against the sensitive flesh at her waist, his skin warm against hers. Which only made her want more skin.
With eager hands, she tugged at his black t-shirt, breaking their kisses only long enough to pull it over his head. Then she allowed her hands to roam, to feel the rigid strength in his body, loving the heat of him, the bourbon and Coke smell of him.
A shudder shook his body. “I want you.” He paused, then said something else under his breath. Something like, “More than I should let myself.” But then his lips were back on hers, addling her senses and taking over her mind.
A bellow rent the air and jerked Delaney out of the oblivion of pleasure where she floated. She snapped her head up, breaking the kiss to listen. Another sound that she could only classify as a roar broke the stillness.
“What was that?” she asked. Fear, rather than need, had her heart tripping over itself inside her chest. “It sounds like a…wounded animal.”
Finn gave a low rumble that sounded more like a warning growl than anything a human would make, and her heart slammed into high gear. Slowly, dread pulling at her, she turned her head to look directly at him.
To encounter eyes ablaze. Not figuratively. Literally ablaze. Blue flames consumed his irises.
What the hell? Panic spiked inside her, and her breath came out in short, sharp bursts, speeding up as she absorbed what she was seeing.
Adrenaline joined the fear and she shoved his chest. Hard.
She must’ve surprised him, because Finn released her, stumbling back a few paces. She managed to keep her feet under her, then scrambled back, trying not to trip over any rocks in her path.
He held up his hands. “Delaney, don’t—”
She did the only thing she could. She ran.


Author Bio:
Award-winning paranormal romance author, Abigail Owen, grew up consuming books and exploring the world through her writing. She attempted to find a practical career related to her favorite pastime by earning a degree in English Rhetoric (Technical Writing). However, she swiftly discovered that writing without imagination is not nearly as fun as writing with it.
No matter the genre, she loves to write witty, feisty heroines, sexy heroes who deserve them, and a cast of lovable characters to surround them (and maybe get their own stories).
She currently resides in Austin, Texas, with her own personal hero, her husband, and their two children, who are growing up way too fast.
Abigail also writes award-winning contemporary romance under the pen name Kadie Scott. (http://kadie-scott.com)
For the latest news and exclusive excerpts, sign up for her newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/Lw2XH


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Friday, September 21, 2018

Guest Post: FANTASY WORLDS by Taylor Hobbs, CLOAKED


Topic: Do you outline your fantasy world before you start writing or do you add elements as you write?

Thank you so much for having me on your blog, and for the great question!

As a writer, I love the fantasy genre because I have both absolute freedom and total control over my imaginary world. When building the setting for Cloaked, I knew I wanted to include everything a reader expects from a historical fantasy romance novel: horses, knights, castles, kings, taverns, a studly hero with a dark past, and more. As the story developed, I also discovered the unexpected, like the opportunity to add an advanced weapon in the plot to heighten the stakes! So I did some basic outlining, but let the rest come naturally while I wrote.

With fantasy stories, I usually go with the flow because I am not constrained by actual historical events and can take the characters any direction that makes sense for the book. Obviously Croantis and Algonia are fictional countries, but the location and time period for Cloaked are loosely based on medieval Europe. If I had to compare them to real-life counterparts, the setting for Croantis was inspired by Spain and the setting for Algonia was inspired by France. I wanted my world to feel authentic, so I researched fighting styles and medieval weaponry because it was such a huge part of Fawkes' character and Charlotte’s growth.

While I am a 'pantser' with setting and world building, I am more of a 'plotter' when it comes to characters. This is where I focus the majority of my planning efforts before I start writing. I have to pick names I love for my main characters, because I will be reading/writing/talking to them for months. Once that is decided, I outline their inner struggle next and focus on each character's internal conflicts. Every character, even secondary characters, have their own story to tell. While their details may never make it into my book, little bios and backstories for my own reference are important to creating realistic dialogue and multidimensional interactions.

Ultimately, my goal is to create a world that readers love to get lost in. Some of that comes in the planning phase, and some of it develops organically along the way. I do what works for me in order to have fun writing the story.



BLURB:

As the Cloaked Shadow, Fawkes has made his career breaking into prisons for any contract with a large enough purse. He takes advantage of the kingdom's impending revolution by playing both sides of the conflict. Each rescue contract he fulfills turns a tidy profit until he angers the wrong duke.

Charlotte is a criminal-in-training who yearns to crack her mentor’s guarded façade, but is unprepared to confront the depths of his dark past. As her sense of right and wrong blurs, Charlotte discovers just how far she will go for the Cloaked Shadow and the sacrifices he requires.

Now hunted throughout the land, Fawkes must face long-buried secrets in order to survive, but they could destroy him. Charlotte risks everything, including her heart, to set Fawkes on the path to redemption.

Will Charlotte have the strength to pull Fawkes into the light, or will she follow him into the shadows?


~~~~~~~~~~~~~
AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Taylor Hobbs lives aboard a 38 ft sailboat named Story Time with her husband, baby girl, and dog. They are a military family and who love to travel, whether it is by sea or air. When she's not writing, Taylor enjoys doing yoga and planning her next adventure. You can keep up with their crazy life at cannonstocruising.com or follow on Twitter at @tayhobbit.

Cloaked is her debut novel and can be found at https://catalog.thewildrosepress.com/all-titles/6046-cloaked.html





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Wednesday, September 19, 2018

#Excerpt: THREE MAGES AND A MARGARITA by Annette Marie


Three Mages and a Margarita
Annette Marie
(The Guild Codex: Spellbound #1)
Publication date: September 14th 2018
Genres: New Adult, Urban Fantasy

Broke, almost homeless, and recently fired. Those are my official reasons for answering a wanted ad for a skeevy-looking bartender gig.
It went downhill the moment they asked me to do a trial shift instead of an interview—to see if I’d mesh with their “special” clientele. I think that part went great. Their customers were complete dickheads, and I was an asshole right back. That’s the definition of fitting in, right?
I expected to get thrown out on my ass. Instead, they…offered me the job?
It turns out this place isn’t a bar. It’s aguild. And the three cocky guys I drenched with a margarita during my trial? Yeah, they were mages. Either I’m exactly the kind of takes-no-shit bartender this guild needs, or there’s a good reason no one else wants to work here.
So what’s a broke girl to do? Take the job, of course—with a pay raise.

Note: The three mages are definitely sexy, but this series isn’t a reverse harem. It’s 100% fun, sassy, fast-paced urban fantasy.

EXCERPT:
When I gazed vacantly at her, Clara visibly paled. “Tori, what’s your class?” “My class?” She pressed her hands to the bar top, eyes wide. “Your class, what is it?” “You mean at the community college? I’m taking—”
“No, your mythic class!” She shoved my card under my nose, even more frantic. “Why doesn’t your license have a mythic identification number? You’re registered, aren’t you?”
“Registered for what? Clara, I don’t have a clue what you’re talking about.”
“Oh my god.” Panic flashed in her eyes. “I don’t believe it. You’re human.”
I blinked again. Squinted. Rubbed one ear like I might have misheard. “Beg your pardon?”
Clara dropped my ID on the bar and hid her face behind her hands. “Darius is going to kill me. Why didn’t I check your ID last night? I’m an idiot.”
“Clara,” I said, alarmed and confused in equal measure. “I swear it’s a real ID. I’m twenty-one, old enough to bartend, and—”
“That’s not the problem,” she moaned. “How did you even find out about this place? I never should have—but you were perfect. You weren’t scared of anyone—not even Aaron! I thought you were some badass mythic who wanted to bartend, but you—”
“Get over yourself, Aaron.” Kai’s angry voice rose over Clara’s. “We’re not doing this your way—not again. Your plans always end in fireballs and explosions.”
Fireballs? Explosions? I glanced at them as Aaron snapped, “What’s wrong with that?” “Tori.” Clara’s panicked tone drew my attention back to her as Kai and Aaron continued to argue. “Last
night, did you see anything?”
“Huh?”
“Did you see anything … unusual?”
“Did I see anything unusual?” I repeated blankly. “Like what?”
“Say that again,” Aaron shouted furiously, “and I’ll toast your pale ass to a healthy crisp!”
His hand shot into the air—and fire burst from his fingers. The red flames danced across his skin, sparks raining down on the table. Curling his hand into a fist, he cocked his arm back, aiming for Kai.
“Aaron!” Clara shrieked. “Put your fire away!” He froze in mid-motion, his fist still blazing. “Clara? What’s wrong?”
“Put it out!” she yelled, her voice high with panic. “Now!”
He flicked his fingers open and the flames vanished. “Jeez, don’t get your panties in a twist. I wasn’t actually going to roast him.”
“Just—just shut up for once in your life, Aaron!” Clara pressed her hands to her head like she was trying to squeeze her brain. “This is already bad enough.”
“What’s bad?” He pushed back from the table and strode over, Kai and Ezra on his heels. “What’s going on?”
I didn’t move, my eyes fixed on his hand—his hand that had been engulfed in flames. Did that count as unusual?
“I screwed up,” Clara groaned, covering her face again like she couldn’t stand to see me. “I didn’t check her ID yesterday.”
Aaron slid my driver’s license off the bar top and read it. “Victoria Dawson? Your name is Victoria?” I shook off my shock to scowl at his sniggering tone. Kai plucked the card out of Aaron’s hand. “There’s no MID number.” “Is it a fake ID?” Aaron asked with amusement. “Did you hire a rogue, Clara?”
“Worse,” Clara whispered. “She’s human.”
The three guys stared at me, and I stared back without the slightest idea what the hell anyone was talking about. But more important than the incomprehensible conversation was the fact Aaron’s hand had been on fire, and I couldn’t figure out how it could possibly have been a trick.
“No way,” Aaron finally said. “What’s your class, Tori?” I pointed at his hand. “Was that real fire?” “Oh, shit,” Kai muttered.


Author Bio:
Annette Marie is the author of Amazon best-selling YA urban fantasy series Steel & Stone, its prequel trilogy Spell Weaver, and romantic fantasy trilogy Red Winter. Her first love is fantasy, but fast-paced adventures and tantalizing forbidden romances are her guilty pleasures. She lives in the frozen winter wasteland of Alberta, Canada (okay, it's not quite that bad) with her husband and their furry minion of darkness—sorry, cat—Caesar.
When not writing, she can be found elbow-deep in one art project or another while blissfully ignoring all adult responsibilities.


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Interview with Khaled Talib, GUN KISS


Can you give us a brief overview of your latest book? Is it part of a series? 
Gun Kiss is a fun and breezy novel that’s primarily set in southern California. The protagonist wears many hats. He’s also a former military guy. One day, he rescues a Hollywood movie star from an obsessed drug lord who then decides to exact revenge on both. The novel contains several themes that needs constant addressing.

I’m seriously thinking that the characters should come back in a series. I’ve been asked by some readers to do it. The question is, how do I approach it? I’ve never done a series. Hopefully, the right amount of chocolate will inspire my imagination.

Do you have a favorite character?
Goldie St. Helen, the movie star, is my favorite. In fact, I’ve even created a board on Pinterest with her name. The board features fashion, food, home and décor and travel. It represents the things she likes. The character was inspired by a real actress whose name shall remain a secret for now. 

Briefly describe your journey in writing your first or latest book.
Gun Kiss took me six months to complete. I wrote it nonstop, as if some crazy drug had been injected into my bloodstream. The idea came about when I was jogging one morning. Afterwards, I developed cramps in my legs. I couldn’t sleep that night and while applying some ointment, I watched an old movie with a famous actress. I felt compelled to write a story and create a character inspired by that actress.

Do you belong to a critique group? Have they helped improve your writing?
I don’t believe in joining a critique group; it doesn’t work for me. I prefer to work with a developmental editor. I’ve already written three novels, all of which have been praised by notable authors. If they didn’t like what I wrote, they wouldn’t endorse my books. The relationship with an editor is more precious to me than the view of ten people at a meeting. As the saying goes, “Too many hands spoil the soup.”

What is your writing process? Do you listen to music or do you like silence?
A bit of this, a bit of that—it depends—is it raining or is it sunny? Sometimes, I need music to spruce up a scene in my mind. Other times, I rely on chocolate to boost my energy. I can write any time of the day, preferably without interruptions. I don’t force myself if I’m tired.

Do you outline your story or just go where your muse takes you?
I go where my muse takes me. I tried the outlining process, but I can’t seem to do it. The other way is finer. Remember the conversation Alice had with the Cheshire cat? He said it doesn’t matter which road you take if you don’t know where you’re going. Still, she had a wild time. Go with the flow…but watch for potholes.   

Besides Amazon, are there any other sites where your books are for sale?
My books, both  electronic and paperback, are available on all major stores, including Barnes and Noble, Smashwords, Ibooks and Kobo.

Do you find it difficult to juggle your time between marketing your current book and writing your next book?
I’ve made sacrifices by prioritizing my daily tasks. In fact, I enjoy the process. I get to learn new things. Why not? There’s always time if you know how to manage your day. I don’t consider it a chore; I get to learn new things.  

Besides writing, do you have any other passions?
I’ve learned to make the Muhalabiya, which is essentially a common milk dessert in the Middle East. So, there’s an inclination to spend more time in the kitchen. What shall I do next?

Some fun facts about you, which do you prefer – dogs or cats? Chocolate or vanilla? Coffee or Tea? Talk or Text? Day or Night?
Cats make less noise and they’re independent. But that doesn’t mean I dislike dogs. If I had to adopt one, it’ll be the cat because of situational convenience. I get nervous when I hear dogs barking all the time. However, if I lived in a castle, I’d probably keep a dog too. Who cares then if it makes noise? Nobody will hear it  for miles  Chocolate or vanilla would depend on my mood. I like both. And it’s most certainly coffee for me—all kinds. I tried going without coffee once for two weeks. It felt strange, as if the planet had no gravity. Tea would’ve to be with milk though some flavors are interesting on its own. But I find it hard to resist tea with biscuits. 


BLURB:

The United States media is abuzz with news of the mysterious disappearance of Hollywood movie star, Goldie St. Helen.

Ex-Delta Force Blake Deco receives a tip from a Mexican friend that a drug lord, obsessed with the beautiful actress, is holding her captive in Tijuana.

With the help of a reluctant army friend, Blake mounts a daring rescue.

What he doesn’t expect is to have feelings for Goldie—or that a killer is hunting them.
Buy links:
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~~~~~~~~~~~~~
AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Khaled Talib is a former journalist with local and international exposure. He has authored three thrillers since 2014.
The author's works have been praised by NY Times bestselling author Gayle Lynds, NY Times bestselling author Ruth Harris, USA Today bestselling author Jon Land, NY Times bestselling author Keith Thomson, K.J. Howe, and Jon McGoran.
His debut thriller, Smokescreen, was listed as one of the six "boundary-breaking indies" in 2016 by the IndieReader. His second novel, Incognito, won the Silver Award for the AuthorsDB Book Cover Contest 2017. Gun Kiss is his third novel.
Khaled, who is also a member of the International Thriller Writers, resides in Singapore.
Author Facebook account: https://www.facebook.com/khaled.talib/
Gun Kiss (YouTube) Book Trailer:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6uhYvbY7KQ

Follow the tour and comment; the more you comment, the better the chances of winning. The tour dates can be found here: 






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Tuesday, September 18, 2018

#Excerpt: ROGUE DRAGON RISING by TJ Shaw


This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. The author will be awarding a $10 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.


Twenty-three year old, Amari Hawke, is thrust into the world of two-soul shifters when she is injured and kidnapped by trackers outside the veil, beyond the safety of her homeland. Unable to remember her past, she trusts no one and relies on instinct to survive. As her awakening approaches, the first time she will transition into her animal, she must evade rogue shifters trying to capture her.

Now free from the King’s Army, powerful dragon lord, Jaxon Blackthorn, seeks a peaceful life. Intent on building his lands into a viable plantation, away from war and bloodshed, he is reluctantly pulled back into the fight when he defends the mysterious shifter with no past against an unseen enemy.

As evil threatens to destroy the entire realm, can the battle-hardened warrior and coming-of-age noblewoman accept their differences to forge an alliance that will ultimately unite the shifter nations?

Excerpt:

Amari had never seen a dragon before…at least not from what she could remember. Muscle rolled beneath glistening scales. Front claws, consisting of sharp, black talons, shimmered like polished stone. Beautiful translucent wings rippled in the sunlight, tapering down to a powerful tail. Her body quivered over the breathtaking spectacle in front of her.

She skimmed her fingers over a large, amber eye, well away from the razor-sharp teeth. Aside from a slight twitch, the beast stilled at her touch. In a brazen move, she planted her palms on each side of its face. “You are way more magnificent than the lioness.”

The dragon growled, shooting vibrations up her arms. She snatched her hands off its face and backpedaled until she butted up against the rock. Her heart rabbited in her chest.

She had just touched a dragon.

She glanced sideways. If she ran, maybe she’d reach the trees before it could catch her…assuming it wouldn’t just torch her. As if reading her mind, the beast snarled.

“Please, don’t eat me.”

In a flash of light, the dragon shimmered and lost shape. To her surprise, Lord Blackthorn stepped from the brightness, and his hands slammed down on each side of her head, sandwiching her against the rock. Tension rolled off his shoulders, and fear crawled up her spine.

She almost preferred her chances with the dragon.

About the Author:
TJ Shaw is a multi award-winning author who writes from her heart by incorporating her dreams and experiences to create strong, passionate characters who must overcome personal flaws to survive against the challenges of traversing through magical realms, undiscovered planets, and apocalyptic catastrophes.

TJ is a member of Romance Writers of America and Fantasy, Futuristic, and Paranormal Romance Writers.

Website: https://tjshaw.com/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tjshawauthor/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TjShawAuthor
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/TJShaw
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/author/tjshaw
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TJShawAuthor

BOOK IS ON SALE $0.99 DURING TOUR ONLY

– Paperback and eBook

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Rogue-Dragon-Rising-part-Outside-ebook/dp/B07FSKH3XX/
< Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/rogue-dragon-rising-part-one-tj-shaw/1129183174
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Kobo https://play.google.com/store/books/details/TJ_Shaw_Rogue_Dragon_Rising_part_one?id=QLhmDwAAQBAJ

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