Bewitching Book Tours Magazine Issue 12 June 2013 Bewitching Book Tours Magazine is a publication of Bewitching Book Tours and Bewitching Books. Editor: Roxanne Rhoads Design Editor and Layout: Lisa McGeen Contributors include Bewitching Book Tours Authors and Tour Hosts learn more at www.bewitchingbooktours.blogspot.com Submission details- for every issue we are accept: Articles- topics include writing, research, paranormal, vampires, advice for authors, publishing advice, and more Flash Fiction- paranormal, urban fantasy and erotica (for other genres please query) True tales of paranormal encounters Recipes Poetry Book reviews Please send submissions to RoxanneRhoads@bewitchingbooktours.com place “Bewitching Magazine Submission” in subject line. Contributors receive free ad space in the magazine. Ad space rates are: $40 full page ad $20 half page ad $10 quarter page ad You can subscribe to this magazine at http://issuu.com/ bewitchingbooktours © Copyright 2013 Stock images from www.123rf.com
Contents
Charity Santiago All In The Family: Running with the Pack Advice for Authors Tarot In Fiction Best of Both Worlds The Half Breed Vampire Excerpt Green Living Tips Bookmark Bracelets Caedmon Wolves Excerpt ClaraBelle’s Custom Creations Blood Moon Excerpt Apple of My Eye Kay Dee Royal Feature LM Pruitt Interview Vampire News Feature Vampire News Giveaway Heart Murmurs Moonlight Excerpt Romance in Montana Milly Taiden Winged Review Seal of Surrender Excerpt The Reversing Worlds Trilogy Tristan’s Lyceum Wolves Verses of Athine Werewolves Be Damned TRUST Naughty Nook Sexual Aromatherapy Isis Erotica Carole Remy Feature
4 8 12 15 17 18 22 24 25 30 31 33 34 38 40 43 44 46 50 52 53 54 58 60 64 66 70 72 73 76 78
5 Awesome Paranormal Shows – and 5 That Are Downright Terrible Charity Santiago As a book addict, chances are I’ll have my nose buried in a book (or my e-reader) at any given moment of the day. But occasionally there are times when I get the urge to sit down in front of a TV and get my paranormal fix that way. In fact, I’ll credit TV megamind Joss Whedon for getting me hooked on vampires in the first place and inspiring me to write my first paranormal romance, Blood Lust. Over the years, I’ve become addicted to a lot of paranormal shows- and I’ve had my heart broken at least a dozen times by unmet expectations or unexpected cancellations. As a tribute to my tumultuous love-hate relationship with television, today I’m going to talk about five paranormal TV shows you should definitely watchand five that you should steer clear of at all costs. I’ll also offer a disclaimer before I start: I did not include True Blood or The Vampire Diaries on this list, for the simple reason that I don’t watch them and don’t feel qualified to talk about them. If you’re a fan of any paranormal show, feel free to let me know in the comments! I’m also game to hear an argument as to why I should become a True Blood or Vampire Diaries fan.
Buffy, you haven’t lived- go watch all seven seasons on Netflix. Now. I’ll wait. (You can skip over season four if you want.) 4. The Walking Dead There isn’t a person on the planet who hasn’t heard of The Walking Dead, with good reason: it. Rocks. Hardcore. Despite being horrendously gory, this show talks about the zombie apocalypse in very real terms, by letting its viewers know that although zombies are bad- sometimes humans are worse. Who would you trust in the event of a zombie virus outbreak? 3. Supernatural This show has gone on far longer than anyone could have expected, but I think the first three seasons were the best. I’ve been touched, awed, shocked and terrified at various times while watching Supernatural, but I think the reality is: very few people care about the storyline. The real question is, which Winchester brother do you prefer? Dean or Sam? (I’m a Dean girl.)
We’ll start with the must-watch:
2. Being Human
5. Buffy the Vampire Slayer
I should clarify right away that I’m talking about the US version of Being Human, and not the UK version. The show revolves around the unlikely trio of a vampire, a ghost and a werewolf as they try to navigate the trials and tribulations of their supernatural lives. A particular highlight of the show is Sam Witwer as the vampire Aidan Waite.
Was this any surprise? This is the original vampire TV show by Master of All Things Awesome, Joss Whedon. Here’s a fun fact: a few people have compared my Rapid City Wolves series to Twilight, but the fact is, the Rapid City Wolves series has far more in common with Buffy. Including a very sexy vampire hero and a kick-butt heroine who loves him. If you haven’t seen
1. Angel
I ranked Angel on this list with some reservation, because I’d already mentioned Buffy the Vampire Slayer as #5. But the fact is, the first two seasons of Angel produced some of the best television moments in history. Oh, the angst! The funny! The guest stars! Angel defined a generation of TV-watchers and set the bar high for future paranormal TV shows.
this show is 1) the storyline is pretty gripping, and 2) despite being treated like crap by the male characters, the female stars of the show can seriously kick some zombie butt. 2. Moonlight
This show had major potential, but it was all squandered when it was cancelled after just one season. There were some abysmal points throughout its first 5. Hemlock Grove and only season (Sophia Myles’ laughable American accent among them), but there were some fun times, This is one of Netflix’s attempts at original programtoo. Sigh. I almost feel bad ranking this show on my ming. I’m so ambivalent about this show that I almost top five worst paranormal shows, but really, I’m just included it on my must-watch list. I know. I need to doing it to save you the heartache of getting hooked, make up my mind. What ultimately made the deciand then never receiving any kind of closure thanks to sion for me was that I couldn’t, in good conscience, rec- the show’s cancellation…the way I did. ommend this as a show that the majority will enjoy. Only a sparse few will actually like this show, and even Zombieland fewer will recommend it. Even though I’m putting it on my awesomely bad list, I will offer this caveat: it is It’s hard to call this a show when it never got past the worth watching if you are patient and willing to sit pilot episode, but the sacrilege of taking a truly hilarithrough the first five episodes, all of which are lousy. ous and groundbreaking movie, and turning it into a After that, the show seems to hit its stride and the so-so, unfunny TV show earns it the #1 spot. Amazon characters become slightly more likeable. But the sea- decided to make this television show’s pilot episode son finale isn’t enough payoff for the hours of boredom and potentially continue it if enough people watched the viewers had to endure before it. it on the Amazon website. Despite bringing back the original writers of the hit movie, Zombieland sunk 4. Vampire High faster and with considerably less fanfare than the Titanic. If I’m surprised about anything, it’s that Vampire High apparently has some kind of cult following. The show Do you have an opinion on any of the shows I’ve only aired for one season, from 2001-2002, and the listed? Let me know in the comments! first episode- the only one I’ve watched- was terrible. I don’t mean oh-it’s-so-terrible-it’s-funny. I mean TERRIBLE. I wanted to throw my Dr. Pepper at the televi- About the Author: sion screen while watching it. Only in Vampire High will an angst-ridden teen vampire be fast enough to scale three floors of stairs and rescue his damsel in dis- I first discovered the world of self-publishing in tress before she hits the ground after tripping, but yet February 2011, when my 7-month-old son was won’t be fast enough to get out of the way of sunlight admitted to the hospital with severe respiratory when someone breaks a window. Totally makes sense. issues. During his stay in the hospital, I tried to And now for the awesomely bad:
keep us both entertained by downloading several books on my Kindle and reading them out Often referred to as H.O.T.D., High School of the Dead loud. 3. High School of the Dead
is an anime about a bunch of high school kids caught up in a zombie apocalypse. What makes it so awesomely bad? Not the story, because I sort of like that. It’s the fan service. Fan service is when there is constant T&A throughout the show. All shots are up the female characters’ skirts. There are numerous nude scenes for no reason. The misogyny is shocking. Heroines get slapped and assaulted constantly. The only upside to
I read a number of self-published books and realized that I had an opportunity to share my writings with the world. I soon decided to quit my full-time job in the insurance and financial services industry, stay home with my son and
write. It was the best decision I've ever made. My son's health has improved drastically, and I've never been happier. I prefer to read and write YA fantasy, romance, and paranormal romance. The next book in my Rapid City Wolves series, “Blood Oath,� will be released for Amazon Kindle on June 1, 2013. Blog: http://charitysantiago.blogspot.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/charitysantiago Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/cinephilemama Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4733058.Charity_Santiago
Blood Lust Rapid City Wolves, book 1 Charity Santiago Genre: Paranormal romance ASIN: B00CBWEZL0 Number of pages: 95 Word Count: 37,550 Cover Artist: Charity Santiago Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/EhcU78pr0y8 Amazon Book Description: Eve came to Rapid City to escape her parents' messy divorce, but what she finds in South Dakota exceeds her wildest dreams- and nightmares. After Eve is attacked by a wolf outside her grandmother's house, she stumbles into a new and frightening existence as an alpha werewolf. Fated to lead the pack and obligated to choose a beta to lead beside her, Eve still cannot bring herself to forget Jericho, the mysterious vampire who saved her life. Will the wolves force Eve to choose between her destiny and her soulmate? His eyes were molten silver, burning through me as he leaned closer. He stopped less than an inch from me, eyes boring into mine.
Excerpt “Eve,” he whispered, and I lurched forward, bumping my forehead against his as our lips crashed against each other. His hands came up to bury themselves in my hair, his grip steadying me as I tried to keep my balance on the bed. He tasted impossibly clean, his mouth a revelation of sweetness. Desire unfurled within my belly, and I moaned against his lips. He responded with a low growl, pushing against me. For some reason I reacted instinctively, fighting his dominance, refusing to retreat as he pressed closer. His hands were rough in my hair, and I responded by placing my own hands against his chest and pushing. He didn’t give. Instead he pulled his hands from my hair and wrapped them around me. He moved us sideways on the bed, shifting together, and he lay down with me. We lay on our sides, facing each other, and his hand trailed down my back, sending shivers up my spine. I wanted to be closer, and I tried to maneuver so that I could climb on top of him, but his hand was firm on my hip, refusing to allow me to move. Frustrated, I let the tip of my tongue caress his lower lip, and I felt him shudder against me. He crushed my hips to his, his hand moving even lower, gliding over the back pockets of my jeans before he pulled my thigh up and draped it over his hip. He was pressed so insistently against my core that I was finally the one who gave in, groaning as I pulled him on top of me. It wasn’t so much a submission as an admission of trust, and I felt his lips still against mine as his hips settled between my legs. When he pulled back, I wondered if I’d done something wrong. “What-“ “Shhh,” he said, putting one finger against my lips. He leaned down and kissed the corner of my mouth gently. “Eve, don’t misunderstand what I’m about to say.” What? How was I supposed to respond to that? “That depends on what you say,” I replied, and my voice was stronger than I’d expected it to be. A smile played around his lips. “You have no idea how much I want you,” he muttered, and lowered his mouth to my neck. His tongue traced a line along my collarbone, and silvery trills of desire shot through me. I brought my legs up to lock around his waist, and nearly cried out when he bit down gently at the curve of my shoulder. He rolled off me suddenly, breaking the physical contact, and I was left feeling cold and empty, like I’d been doused with a bucket of water. For a few moments the only sound was my shallow breathing as I tried to calm my racing heart. His fingers laced with mine, holding my hand as we lay side-by-side. “I don’t want to rush this, Eve,” he said at last, and raised my hand to his lips, kissing my wrist. “I’m not going to push you into anything you might regret. We need to take our time.” I pulled my hand from his and rolled onto my side, propping my head up on my fist and staring incredulously at him. “You think I’d regret being with you?” He raised a hand to trace a finger along my cheekbone. “I think you need to get to know me better before you decide to give me something so precious.” I felt myself blushing, and averted my eyes. He talked about me like I was some kind of rare treasure- a far cry from the boys I’d dated back in New York. Jericho leaned up to press his lips to mine again, and this time the kiss was pure and innocent, as chaste as any kiss between lovers could be. “Lie with me,” he murmured against my lips, and laid back, his eyes gleaming in the moonlight. I snuggled into the crook of his shoulder, resting my hand against his chest. “You could at least take your shirt off,” I said hopefully. His chuckle rumbled against my ear. “Go to sleep, Eve.” It was nearly an hour before I fell asleep like that, secure in Jericho’s arms.
All In The Family: Running with the Pack By Nancy Gideon
I LOVE to read and write books about families. ties to family, they were scattered, afraid and easily From Shakespearean treachery and tragedy to the intimidated until the presence of a prophesied AlGodfather, the built-in dynamics for potential char- pha became a focal point around which they gathacter interaction is both powerered. And in that unity, there ful and intimate. It’s a concept was strength. With that universally understood which strength, these previously makes twisting, shaping, and unacknowledged refugees bemolding that concept to either came a clan . . . and a threat. conform or contrast so much fun. And it’s the backbone of Territory was another vital my “By Moonlight” dark paraelement in my Shifter world. normal shape-shifter series. The intellectual Chosen in the north were able to suppress Wolves are by nature pack aniand dominate the physically mal. They live together, work powerful Shifters in the south together, survive together, and because their clans were dihunt together within that familivided and considered each al unit. They’re fiercely protecother as greater enemies than tive of their mates and their those who would control young. They have a hierarchy them. When the Terriots were that respects the strength and introduced as the aggressive wisdom of elders. They’re agbullies who ruled the southgressively territorial and fight to west territories out of their uphold those boundaries. Yet Lake Tahoe stronghold, they they can be gentle, loving and exemplified pack animal playful with their own unit. mentality with a feudal-like Like a family community. When creating my shape warrior community under one iron-fisted Alpha, -shifters, I built their world on that construct. the father of the Twelve of the House of Terriot. The fact that this leader was dangerously unstable . . . therein lies the rub. The strength of family came Community was a main theme in my “By Moonlight” books set in New Orleans, because its Shifter from fear instead of respect, where brother challenged brother and females were prizes rather than residents had no sense of it. As outcasts without
protected loved ones. PRINCE OF SHADOWS, my latest release through Pocket Star delves into what happens to a family community when the dynamics are corrupted and the least likely son must rise above the others to unite them. Fun and sometimes frightening stuff!
could mean surrendering his throne. The only way to win her heart could mean letting her go . . . even if she no longer wants to be saved.
Nancy Gideon is the award winning author of over 54 romances ranging from historical, regency and It takes a village … or rather a family to pull toseries contemporary suspense to paranormal, with gether when facing a greater outside threat. And it a couple of horror screenplays tossed into the mix. takes an uneasy truce between like communities to She works full time as a legal assistant, and when confront that danger that faces them all equally. not at the keyboard, feeds a Netflix addiction along Run with the pack in my “By Moonlight” world. with all things fur, fin and fowl. Her latest release, PRINCE OF SHADOWS, book 8 in her dark paraPRINCE OF SHADOWS, “By Moonlight” senormal “By Moonlight” series for Pocket Books, is ries, Book 8 now available as an e-exclusive.Visit Nancy at Others Controlled Her Fate http://nancygideon.com or http:// nancygideon.blogspot.com. A gentle female held hostage in a deadly play for power, Kendra Terriot’s onFacebook Twitter Goodreads ly means of survival for herself and her family is to play to a careful courtship game. The one she chooses from her clan’s dangerous heirs will inherit the coveted crown, keeping her their prisoner forever . . . unless she can retain her virtue until rescue arrives. The Past Destroyed His Dreams Favored son of their brutal Shifter leader, the only calm in Cale Terriot’s violent world is a childhood love for his delicate distant cousin whom he’s pledged to make his queen. With Kendra at his side, he knows he can become the kind of ruler his clan needs, but first he must learn how to become the kind of mate she desires. A Choice Would Determine Their Future In a treacherous race for control, where weakness means death, Cale must prove he’s not the beast his beauty fears and still protect her, especially once her unrequited love returns to free her. The only way to win her respect
Excerpt Prince Of Shadows Cale stood in the shadowed doorway. Before him was
into her, feeling the warmth of her body, tasting her
everything he’d ever wanted, there for the taking, but for blood, exulting in the glorious relief of joining with her the first time in a long time, he was afraid to make a
beautiful spirit.
move.
Staining it. Bruising it. Crushing it along with A blush of moonlight filtered down from the sky- her trust and any love she might ever have felt for him.
light to bathe Kendra’s sleeping form in a tender halo.
“Cale?”
So beautiful that it hurt to look upon her while dark, ur-
The cool touch of her voice pierced through the
gent thoughts prowled. His gaze adored the relaxed in-
pounding rage of his intentions. He faded back into
nocence of her features, the way her fair hair rippled
shadow, silently withholding his presence from her until
across the pillow like silk. No protective bulk of fleece
she settled back to sleep.
tonight. Something silky and shimmering detailed the contours of her graceful shape.
He hadn’t returned.
His soft exhale of longing was tempered by the
In the warm pooling sunlight, Kendra glanced
fisting of hands that still shook. He couldn’t keep him-
about in sinking dismay. Cale hadn’t come back. Noth-
self away any longer. His need had intensified into an
ing had been disturbed since she’d lain back upon the
agony of desire and regret. Her scent drew him inexora- covers to wait for him. bly where he shouldn’t go, where he couldn’t trust him-
His absence was unexpectedly wounding, but the
self to be. Close enough to be a threat to her. Because
reason behind it filled her with unease. Would another
promises had yet to be sealed with a bond.
Terriot prince be moving in today to replace him? If that
She stirred in her sleep, murmuring softly, roll-
were the case, she could anticipate no mercy or restraint.
ing onto her back. That slippery gown whispered across
She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to block out the brutal
her breasts and hips the way his hands yearned to. He
sight of Bram Terriot growling over her mother’s back.
watched her take unhurried breaths, unaware of how
Was that what she had to look forward to in the next few
harsh and forceful his own had become.
hours?
Take her! It was the way his family did things. Swift, pur-
If she ran, would she have the slightest chance of escape?
poseful action, necessarily brutal, to take and hold what was theirs. His queen, beside him. His heirs, inside her. That dizzying heat returned, scalding his brain, flaming through his body in a shuddering rush.
If you don’t accept my protection, I can’t help you. She’d never get off the mountain intact, perhaps not even alive. Struggling with that panicked certainty,
She’s yours by her own vow. Claim her!
Kendra slipped from the bed and moved anxiously into
She shifted within that seductive wrap of silk,
the outer room. She came to an abrupt halt at the sight
and all he could think of was tearing it off her, tearing
that greeted her. The prayer of relief whispered from her,
soft and shaky.
caught her wrist roughly.
Cale was sprawled on the floor with one booted
His eyes flashed open, seeming more incredibly
foot on the sofa cushions, showing every indication of a pale and beautiful against the shaded bruising surroundhard, hellacious night. His closed eyes were sunken and ing them. Once he recognized her, his words were deeply shadowed, his hair stiff with dried sweat. More
rough. “Probably not a good idea to startle me when I’m
bloodstains covered his skin and torn clothing; perhaps
sleeping.”
he’d found more debts that needed settling. She was
“I’ll make a note.” Kendra withdrew her hand
guiltily pleased to note that no female scent was at-
when he released it, rubbing at her abraded wrist while
tached to him. He didn’t stir as she crossed the room.
he rolled his head away and laid his forearm across his
Carefully, she moved his foot and reclined on
eyes. “I didn’t hear you come in last night.”
the cushions, resting her head on her arm as she studied
“Yeah, well, I didn’t have reason to wake you.”
him.
That flat tone deflated fragile hopes. Kendra Cale Terriot. Treasured friend from childhood or swallowed hard. A forlorn prickle of pride refused to let
terrorizing intimidator from the not so distant past? The
her beg him. “It should only take a few minutes to pack
lines between the two confusingly blurred. There were
up my things.”
moments when he’d smile and the surfacing sweetness
“What?” His gaze flew up to meet hers, eyes
would stir in her all sorts of buried emotions, leaving
wide and round and filled with a tumble of complex
her dangerously vulnerable. Then that expressionless
emotion. “You’re leaving?”
mask would drop into place, the one he wore when
“Isn’t that what you want?”
about his father’s business, and from behind it he could
“No.” He drew a quick, jerky breath. “Do you
deal out a stunning degree of viciousness, as if morality
want me to?”
never registered. Both sides fed upon her loneliness, upon the restlessness of late-blooming sexuality.
The last thing she’d expected was for him to place that kind of power in her hands, but he delivered it
Was she seriously considering staying with him? without any hesitation. Kendra sat up and carefully About bonding as his life’s mate?
weighed her next words. “I can’t stay if I’m afraid of
That would mean remaining here, locked away
you.” She gave that time to settle in. His stare, so in-
from a world she’d hoped to enjoy, a pampered prison-
tense and still, was riveted to hers. “There have to be
er, but prisoner nonetheless. Sharing every little intimate rules.” detail of her days and nights with this quixotic man she
A quick blink. “You’re giving me rules?”
didn’t understand. Trusting him to care for her, to pro-
She heard his arrogant claim in her head. I’m a
tect and cherish her. Then there was the sex. And that, she guessed, would be frequent and vigorous whenever and wherever he was in the mood. Just thinking about it quickened the curious stir in her center. Before she could stop herself, she put her fingertips to his cheek. And gasped as he
Terriot prince. I do whatever the hell I want. But she didn’t back down. “Someone has to, Cale.” “So,” he ventured carefully, “what are they?”
An Author’s Guide to Using a Pen Name Roxanne Rhoads For years I have written under both my real name and a pen name. At times it was really confusing, especially in the beginning when I had no idea when I should use both names and when I should just use my pen name. I own Bewitching Book Tours and I have found that many new authors are just as confused as I was about how and when to use pen names. Once I had a male author who writes as a woman send me all his promotional info for his book under his pen name and his author bio was written under his real name. His email and web sites were also under his real name. So I assumed that he had no problem with both names being used to promote his book (since he didn't specify otherwise). At the time I was just a reviewer and promoter- I published what authors sent me, I didn’t change their words or materials except for misspellings. Well, the author contacted me a few days later very upset because I used his real name and his pen name in the blog post. I explained to him the problem and suggested a few ways to stop any confusion in the future. The things I suggested to him are ways that I have kept my writing names separate while making my life a lot easier. First of all, set up an email account in your pen name. Many email servers like aol, yahoo, and gmail have free email accounts. Use this email account for all writing transactions and submissions under your pen name. Create a signature line for your email. For a long time I wondered after I sent an email if I accidentally signed the wrong name. Now I use signatures with my email accounts that include my name, email address, and web addresses so I never have to worry about signing the wrong name.
Create a bio for your pen name. This bio should not include any writing credits, jobs, degrees or memberships that are under any other name. When someone tries to verify the info in your bio and can't find anything under your pen name you'll look like a liar. So keep your names and bios separate. Set up separate Facebook and Twitter accounts for your pen name (and any other social media that you may use- Goodreads, Google+, Pinterest, etc). That way all your promotion can be done through those networking sites under that name alone. This is extremely helpful when you want to keep your real name and pen name completely separate. Set up a blog using only your pen name. This is extremely easy to do, especially with Blogger and it will help with promotion as you can publish all your book covers and publishing information on the blog, entertain readers and draw people in. Try to get the URL with your pen name in it, such as www.JadeDesire.Blogspot.com. When you’re ready and established you want to do the same with a website. Try to get your pen name as your website urlJadeDesire.com The last and most important thing to remember when using a pen name...don't ever give anyone your real name unless absolutely necessary. Book reviewers, bloggers, book promoters- none of these people have any reason to know your real name. Publishers and agents are the only ones that ever need to know your real name and sometimes there are ways around that as well. I often do not put my real name on any work until it is accepted by the publisher and a contract is offered. Then I give my real name. And sometimes even then I don't offer my real name if payments are made electronically and they never ask for my social security number. There's no reason to use my legal name. In some localities you can file a DBA (doing business as) under your pen name. This is the same as filing for a business name. Some cities/counties/states won't allow you to file a DBA under a person's name while others do. If you can, this will allow you to legally use that name for all transactions. You can even open a bank account using your business/pen name. To get around the use of a social security number you can file for a taxpayer id number. The only drawback to going this route is that it leaves a paper trail that anyone can have access to if they know where to look but you won't have to give your real name to publishers, editors or agents. Decide which route works best for you then stick to your guns and keep your names as far away from each other as possible.
Facing Fears: The Tower by Alayna Williams I wrote both Dark Oracle and Rogue Oracle with a deck of cards at hand – much like my heroine, Tara Sheridan, a criminal profiler who uses Tarot cards to solves crimes. Whenever I get stuck on a character or plot point, I shuffle the cards and pull out one at random. More often than not, I can find something in the symbolism of the image that captures my imagination and propels my writing forward. When I was developing the outline for Rogue Oracle, there was one card that haunted me more than any other. One card that kept coming up whenever I shuffled the deck and spread the cards out before me: The Tower. The Tower depicts a disintegrating structure at night, struck by lightning, from which two people fall. The traditional meaning of the card has to do with old ways of life collapsing and a new order taking its place. It's about destruction, an event after which nothing is ever the same again. There was always something about the Tower that bothered me, that frightened me on a deep, subconscious level. Something distantly familiar. I looked at its image in several other decks before I realized what it symbolized to me for this story: the disaster at Chernobyl, almost twenty-five years ago. One of my childhood fears was Chernobyl. I was in middle school when the news reports began to filter in that something terrible had happened in Europe...that a
Soviet reactor had melted down, breached containment in fire and invisible poison. The Ukraine seemed a thousand worlds away. And I was less than a bystander, an ordinary kid on an ordinary street in the U.S. But something about the story captivated and frightened me. I remember seeing some pictures of Chernobyl on the news, of an industrial plant not quite so different than those plants that surrounded me where I grew up where my dad worked. And seeing fire. And the rumors about plumes of poison moving over Europe, unstoppably. It made me shudder. I remember that my mother turned off the television when we were in the room. But the story of Chernobyl of the people who died immediately in the fire, those who died after of horrible cancers, of secrets and something invisible that could kill more effectively than an army - it seemed to seep into the minds of the adults. I remember that my class was shown a film about radiation in the school library. I don't remember what it was called, but I remember that it was pretty graphic. It talked a lot about Hiroshima. Poisoned radioactive organs in jars. A man in a perfectly pristine white T-shirt who was covered in radiation burns. Almost a supernatural horror - more terrifying than the books about the making of classic Dracula and Frankenstein movies that we were reading.
It did give me nightmares. And I think many of the other kids. And I guess that it never did completely dislodge from my memory. The black shape of the containment structure, the Sarcophagus, reminds me so much of the shadowy tower in all its supernatural power. And because it scared me, I knew that this was the concept to pursue. I would put my heroine on the trail of a Chernobyl survivor who was selling old nuclear secrets on the international black market. I would take her to the place that I dimly remembered from old television footage, now sharpened by research. I made Tara walk through the tall grasses and stand before the Sarcophagus. I'd let her feel the prickle of radiation on her skin, taste the metallic tang of the rain, let her see the bird's nests wedged into the splitting seams of the structure. I made her stand in the shadow of the Tower, the closest thing I could connect to such a fearsome symbol in the real world. And...it does still scare me.
Best of Both Worlds: Why I mixed my Vampires and Werewolves By Theresa Meyers I know that if you’ve read Twilight or watched Underworld or any other number of stories including both Werewolves and Vampires you’ve already got some idea that in story land they just don’t mix. They’re the oil and water of the paranormal realm. Ah, but you see that’s where there’s an opportunity to make things interesting. Two powerful little words can change the world as we know it: what if. Storytellers the world over know they can do anything, go anywhere if they use what if as a springboard for their imagination. So, what if, my hero was both vampire and werewolf—and didn’t know it? I didn’t realize this until long after I’d originally met Slade Donovan as a secondary character in my story The Vampire Who Loved Me. He was just a goodlooking member of the Security Team. At that point I knew he was a full-fledged vampire in the Seattle Cascade Clan, but I didn’t know his background, his history or his crippling secret. While Slade is a demolitions and tracking expert, it’s his own life, his own concept of self, that gets blow apart in The Half-Breed Vampire. I’ll admit in this story I pushed more than a few boundaries, not just in terms of mythos, but also in terms of what constitutes a hero and my own writing skills. I’d never written an amnesiatic character before or one with not just a single but two paranormal sides. In the Sons of Midnight world, both werewolf and vampires are caused by different viruses. And like in life, it is possible for a single person to catch more than one type of virus and for each virus to take a different toll on the body. Blending the two into one character allowed me to explore the vampire/werewolf conflict on a whole different level. Not only was this intensely personal for the character, but it also brought
into play how someone is accepted or outcast by their society not because of who they are, but their heritage. For Slade Donovan, discovering his past is a slow spiral into the worst place imaginable where he is his own worst enemy. He’s forced into choosing to let go of everything he’s come to rely on as a family, a community for the greater good of preserving both that community and the woman he comes to love. It’s the transformation of him, both figuratively and literally, getting in touch with that more wild, basic self—his authentic self—that isn’t modified by what society wants or demands, but just is. So, while I could say I mixed my vampires and werewolves just to satisfy my own curiosity of What If, the truth is it went far deeper than that. It opened up a whole new realm in my fictional world and a new door to lots of new stories to come.
Excerpt The Half Breed Vampire:
Raina swallowed hard, her slender throat, exposed by her upswept hair, flexing with the movement. Slade couldn’t help fixating on the light, fast beat pulsing just beneath surface of her skin. Her heart beat loud and clear and the oceanlike roar of her quickly moving blood filled his sensitive ears. The succulent smell of ripe strawberries suffused the air, making him certain the confection flowing through her veins would taste like strawberries on angel food cake. A real problem for him, since he had a serious sweet tooth. Her eyes widened a fraction and she unconsciously slipped her hand up to her neck, cupping it over the spot where he’d been staring. “Look, Mr. Donovan, I think we may have started off on the wrong foot.” Slade snorted. They’d crossed that bridge a while ago out in the woods when she’d laid into him for killing that Were. Only one of them had forgotten it. Once he did, he’d forget that she was firmly on the side of the furries instead of him and his kind. “Doesn’t matter. I’m not helping you to make friends. I’m in this because my commander gave me an order.” From the sudden rigidness of her frame he could tell the rebuff stung. Nature girl pulled back her shoulders, her full lips thinning slightly as she pressed them together. “Then perhaps we ought to get started.” Better to keep a distance between them than let the agitation that eddied like smoke in the air develop into anything more personal. He chose his next words to intentionally goad her. “Where to, babe?” Her eyes turned hard, glittering, but she
didn’t take the bait. “Officer Ravenwing,” she reminded him sternly. “I think the most logical place for us to start would be where we received the first incident report with the wolves. We need to go to Teanachee. Know where that is?” “Yeah.” The hair on the back of Slade’s neck rose like the hackles on a dog facing danger. Danger? What the hell? He’d never been to east of the Cascades unless he was on a plane. “Cowboy country, huh? Missing Tex already, are you?” She dismissed his gibe with a delicate little sniff, resting her hand on the butt of her holstered revolver and keeping her gaze level. “Ready to go, Mr. Donavan?” Not in the middle of the day when he’d already been up all night. He didn’t want to deal with a migraine from being in the light. Besides, he hadn’t eaten since he went on shift, and starting off hungry with her blood smelling like dessert wasn’t a good idea. He especially didn’t like her thinking she could call all the shots. Slade crossed his arms. “What’s your rush, Officer Ravenwing? Most shifters don’t come out until dusk. We’ll head out tonight.” Her smooth jawline tightened, and his extra sensitive hearing picked up the minute sounds of cracking enamel as she ground her teeth together. “I’d prefer to leave immediately. It’s a two-hour drive, and there are things I’d like to look at while it’s light.” He gave her a mock imitation of a grin and leaned his hip on Achilles’s desk. “I don’t feel like it.” “But your commander gave orders—” “Which I fully intend to obey. But you might as well get used to the idea that vampires
operate differently than you mortals.” She lowered her head, like a bull ready to charge. “I’m fully aware of the nocturnal habits of vampires, Mr. Donovan. But our quarry is nocturnal, too. If we aren’t there to conduct our interviews and hike where we can observe them, our time today will be wasted.” Slade inhaled sharply, about to give her a piece of his mind, then found that breathing in around her was a mistake. Amplified by the small confines of the room, her seductive strawberry scent spiked with gunpowder filled his senses. There was nowhere to go for relief. He decided right then and there anything that got him out of Officer Ravenwing’s presence faster and back to his normal duties would be a good thing. The next best thing was being somewhere where there was a lot of space, fresh air and other smells less distracting. “Fine. We’ll do it your way. For now.” He held out a hand and materialized a packed black military-issue duffel across his shoulder and back. A little gasp of surprise slipped past her full lips. Nature girl thought she knew a lot, but clearly she didn’t know everything. He brushed past, her being careful not to touch any part of her. “You never saw a vampire materialize something before?” With a frown, she shook her head slightly. “Just where are you going, Mr. Donovan?” The asperity and commanding tone in her voice rubbed him the wrong way. Yep, the sooner he got good and gone from nature girl the better off he’d be. “Unless you want me to grab hold of you and transport us to your vehicle—” She gave an outraged little gasp, but he plowed on. “Yeah. Thought so. Then I suggest you start walking. Otherwise getting over the mountains is going to take a while.” He pulled open the door and stalked out into the long brick labyrinth of hallways comprising the Seattle Underground. Her utilitarian boots clomped on the cement floor behind him as she trotted to catch up. She might think her under-her-breath growl of annoyance was too soft to hear, but Slade had super hearing. For a moment her irritation amused him. “You don’t even know where my car is parked.” Slade shrugged and slowed his steps so she could catch up. “I’m not the best tracker in the clan for nothing. I can find a car, no problemo.” He
leaned in close, taking a deep inhalation, making her squeak with indignation and step back a pace. “I’ll just follow my nose.” Of course, it didn’t hurt that he knew the make, model and license plate. With that he spun on his booted heel and strode toward the parking complex several city blocks away to go find her car. Of course, Office nature girl (or Strawberry Shortcake as he was beginning to think of her) insisted on driving. Slade didn’t argue, just folded himself pretzel style into the cramped front seat and pushed it as far back as it would go. It was still a tight fit for his long legs. She asked politely what type of music he preferred as he turned on the radio, and when he said heavy metal, she tuned it to country because she didn’t like his selection. Didn’t bother him any. The music was loud enough to make casual chitchat impossible. He enjoyed the view of Officer Ravenwing and the passing scenery. She was a competent, if cautious driver, and city streets quickly gave way to the tall, lush evergreen trees. An hour later he saw the rocky gray points of the Cascades topped with snow even in the late days of summer as the highway east wound through the pass through the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area. As they started downhill, they jetted past the big reservoir that reflected the mountains and the brilliant blue sky dotted with white clouds. The land opened up, spreading out in swaths of first green, then golden grasses. The meadows were stuck here and there with frilly pines that became farther and farther apart. A couple hours’ drive, and they were a world away from the bustling, crowded streets of Seattle. The lay of land seemed oddly familiar. At least there were still trees, Slade thought. He shifted uncomfortably in his seat, making it squeak in protest. Normally, members of the clan never left the boundaries of their territory and this was hell and gone from the border. “Almost there,” she said as she flicked her gaze in his direction. “Teanachee is just up the highway from Cle Elum.” Goody. He could hardly wait. They pulled off the wide strip of wellmaintained asphalt that made up Highway 90 onto a far smaller, two lane road that had seen better days. Slade’s head hit the roof of the car as it bounced over car-eating potholes. “We’ll stop at Jake’s before we head out to
the farms that have been having the most trouble with these wolves.” Downtown Teanachee at rush hour consisted of one main street, an old-looking little gas and grocery jiffy mart named Jake’s, a few shops, a few houses circa 1900-something and two cars, both parked at Jake’s. If the forlorn town was sad, its backdrop was conversely majestic. The tall, imposing, purplish Cascade and Wenatchee mountain ranges colliding in points so high they reached into the clouds while their bases were fringed with a lacy skirt of evergreens. They pulled into the quick mart parking lot and Slade unfolded himself from the front seat and stretched. “Man, how do you stay away?” he said just above a whisper as she got out of the car and strode past him. Even with those ugly pants on, Slade could tell that she had a nice firm butt and he’d bet Achilles a beer she had long slender legs to match. The dark bun of her hair shifted over her shoulder as she turned to shoot him a glare. “May not be much to a big-city vamp like you, but for the people around here, it’s home.” He didn’t honestly have anything against small towns, except that they were, well, small. He’d never lived in one. The pine-scented air tickled his brain with an elusive memory, making him feel unaccountably edgy, as if he was anticipating a sneeze that never came. A bell strung over the door of Jake’s jangled an irritatingly cheery chime as they pushed into the minimart. Inside, the place was threadbare, but neat and clean, smelling of a mix of beef jerky, pickles and the hot, yeasty smell of fresh-baked bread. The combination of smells seemed achingly familiar, which was impossible. Slade shrugged off the misplaced sense of déjà vu and followed her to the counter. An older woman with deeply tanned skin and hair as white and copious as wool on a sheep came bustling out of the back room. Her dark eyes lit up when she saw nature girl. “Raina! Come here. Give your auntie Mo a hug!” The woman, who was nearly as wide as she was tall and dressed in a lurid red-andpurple muumuu, engulfed nature girl in a bonecrushing hug. “Now who is this fine young man you’ve got with you? A new boyfriend?” She
chucked Raina under the chin affectionately with a crooked finger. Slade stifled a smirk as Raina turned three shades of ever-increasing red beneath the dusky natural tone of her skin. She smoothed a strand of dark hair that had escaped her ruthless bun, tucking it deftly behind her ears. Apparently nature girl didn’t get out much. Her gaze flicked in his direction for just a moment, but Slade was sure the temperature control in the small store was on the fritz because he could have sworn he’d gotten a blast of heat from her direction. “No, just someone who’s come to help us with the wolves that have been bothering the folks out near Red Top Mountain. We came in to grab a few supplies before heading out there.” The older woman wasn’t intimidated, despite Slade’s size. She strode straight up to him and looked him deeply in the eyes. Her pupils dilated some, a satisfied grin widening her brown cheeks further. “Well, well, well. Look what the crow brought home to the nest.” She put a pillow-soft plump hand, fragrant with the yeasty scent of warm bread, on either side of his face and pulled down until they were eye to eye. “Those are some unusual eyes you’ve got there, son. Same mouth. High cheeks and that devil’s dimple on your chin. You must be Kaycee Blackwolf’s boy.” She patted his cheek affectionately, then waddled back behind the counter, the rubber soles of her shoes squeaking on the worn linoleum. “Can I get either of you children some jerky?” “Who’s Kaycee Blackwolf?” His question sounded abrupt even to his own ears, but a sudden uncomfortable churning had started in his gut and Slade didn’t like it one bit. Not knowing about his past hadn’t been too much of a hindrance among the vampires, but here, in the confines of the little minimart, it left him feeling exposed. The older woman hardly seemed fazed by his question, but sighed heavily and shook her head and pulled out two large chunks of dark dried meat with crinkling white bakery tissue and handed one to each of them. Slade’s stomach grumbled. While meat wouldn’t do much to stem his hunger, it couldn’t hurt, so he took a bite. The combination of salt and sweet, heated with pep-
per, filled his mouth. The taste and texture sparked another profound feeling of déjà vu. “She was one of us. Long time ago. So sad. You should take a lesson from that one.” She shook an admonishing finger at Raina. “That girl was chosen like you. Never would stay home. Had to go see the big world. And the big world swallowed her up.” The older woman’s fingers snapped together like a biting mouth. “I haven’t gone anywhere,” Raina mumbled around a mouthful of jerky. Auntie Mo clucked. “City’s no place for the likes of us, Whisperer, mark my words.” Raina turned away from her aunt and Slade noted that she rolled her eyes as she did so, but that she didn’t argue with the woman. Officer nature girl started gathering up an armful of foodstuffs from the aisles and snatched up a couple of gallons of water for their trek. What Slade didn’t realize was his momentary drift in attention had left him open for attack.
“As for you…” Auntie Mo shook a plump, wellcreased finger at him. “You Blackwolfs have had your share of sadness. Dark things happen to you. Make amends with the ancestors and things should go better.” Slade quirked a brow at the woman. “How can you be so sure you know who I am?” He was confident she’d never seen a vampire before. Her mouth split into a knowing smile. “We know our own, little Blackwolf.” An image of Auntie Mo, her hair black, threaded with the start of silver at the temples, filled his mind. Her utter certainty bit down hard on him, painful and sharp. Other than the vampire clan, he hadn’t known any kind of family, at least none that he could remember. So why the hell did he clearly remember this woman, only much younger? “I’m sorry, have we ever met before?” The old woman chuckled. “Don’t remember me, eh? No matter. Probably better you don’t.
THE HALF-BREED VAMPIRE Book Three in the Sons of Midnight mini-series Harlequin Nocturne February 21, 2012 ISBN-10: 0373618794 ISBN-13: 978-0373618798 Ignorant of his true heritage, half-breed vampire Slade Donovan is fated to feel like an outsider among his clan. Until a mysterious woman arrives with the ability to unlock his secrets—and make him crave a future he never believed he could have…. As a Game Warden, Raina Ravenwing has only one mission in the Cascade Mountains: to track down a pack of rare wolves that is terrorizing her tribe. Her instant attraction to Slade is a distraction the beautiful wolf whisperer can't afford, unless she agrees to let him help her. Yet working so closely together only intensifies their passion…even as the unfolding truth of Slade's identity threatens everything Raina holds sacred and could potentially destroy both their worlds.
Which Eco-Insect Repellent Works the Best? By Wenona Napolitano I’ve had the chance to try out several eco-friendly insect repellents over the past month or so and I am rather impressed. Almost all of them seem to work pretty good under normal conditions. Some smell better than others, some seem to work longer and harder than others, and some are more convenient to use but they all do the job of keeping the bugs away. I have been tried them all, comparing them and enjoying the fact that I was not constantly attacked by bugs while I worked and played in my yard and garden All of these products mentioned are natural, DEET free, and many are organic as well. They all use natural essential oils like mint, cloves, rosemary, geranium, citronella and lemon.
The other product that seems to work really, really well is the All Terrain Herbal Armor spray and Kid’s Herbal Armor spray. The scent of the All Terrain Herbal Armor is really strong and I don’t prefer it for myself since I am prone to headaches but when we were in the middle of the woods getting swarmed by bloodsuckers I decided not to be picky.
My husband and the kids love the All Terrain Herbal Armor sprays and have been taking them to the park and on all of their fishing trips. My husband said he sprayed himself and the kids with Kid’s Herbal Armor spray (which has a lighter mintier aroma compared to the regular Herbal Armor) at the park one day while everyone else was One of my favorites is ecoSMART. using OFF. The OFF users were still being bit while he The ecoSMART spray is easy to use and has a very and the kids were bug free. That’s proof for me that pleasant aroma that is not overpowering and it seems to these natural insect repellents really work…and work work really well. When I put the spray on we are not well. attacked or tortured by mosquitoes which can be a miracle in our yard since our yard is part woods and Bug Band products also work pretty good and come in swamp. You have to reapply about every two hours but several varieties. They have a Geraniol spray lothat’s no big deal. tion which smells pretty good, other lotion sprays and wipes which contain Geraniol, soybean oil, rosemary,
and mint. They also have convenient wrist bands that are wonderful and so easy to use. I have several in my travel bag and in my three year old son’s bye-bye bag. We have been using Bug Band products quite often during cookouts and bonfires and they do a great job of keeping bugs at bay. BugBam wristbands also work really well with a strong though not unpleasant herbal aroma. They are a very convenient, no mess solution to keeping the bugs away. You can put them on your wrist, ankle, or belt loop and be bug free for hours. And the bands are recyclable. Brittanie’s Thyme spray has a very pleasant aroma. I love this one for myself and keep it in my gardening bag. It is the spray I use most often when working in my gardens. The aroma is light and pleasing with the hint of mint and cloves and possibly cinnamon. Badger Balm lotion has a very pleasant aroma but being a lotion/balm it is not as convenient to use but it works pretty good. Plus it leaves you skin soft. doTERRA Terra Shield is a super concentrated essential oil mixture that smells pretty good and works great but it is not as convenient to use either since it is in a little bottle and is not a spray. It’s blend of 15 essential oils does do wonders to keep the biting bugs away. I just wish it came in a spray bottle. Bug-a-Bug by ecokid spray is a convenient spray bottle but I really can’t stand the smell. It has a very, very strong overpowering aroma of citronella which in small doses is OK but in such a large dose is headache central. So out of all the products this one has been used the least since it gives me a headache. That doesn’t mean it doesn’t work, I personally just can’t take the overwhelming odor of it. If you don’t mind the scent of citronella this may work well for you. So, there’s your breakdown of the best eco-friendly insect repellents. I hope you find one that works great for you.
Bookmark Bracelets This idea was inspired by my children. They are forever stealing my bookmarks or if I use scraps of paper someone will toss them out. Which is really frustrating. Then I saw a book thong and thought what if I could just wrap the bookmark around my wrist while reading then mark my place when I done. This way my kids can't run off with my bookmark, no one will throw it out, and I won't lose it. And so the Bookmark Bracelet was born. So what you'll needSome cord/ string/ wire- I use tigertail jewelers wire but if you want to make it on the cheap yarn or cotton string will do. Beads- Seed Bead and large ones for the ends.- I use hurricane glass ones for the end beads, because I like the colors and designs. But you can use what ever catches you eye just make sure that the holes are big enough for your cord. Clasp of some sort- I like the decorative ones, but a plain lobster clasp will work just as well. Charms- (Optional) I think a dangly charm adds a little character, but it's really up to you. If you choose to use wire you will also need wire cutters, crimp beads and a crimper. Ruler Scissors First thing is measure your string or wire. A standard hard cover runs about 10 inches give or take, so you'll want to cut a piece larger than that. I usually go between 12 and 16 inches. It will also depend on how big your wrist is a 12 inch piece will go around my wrist twice. Measure and cut your cord/ wire to the desired length, don't worry if it's to big you can always trim excess string. It's easier to trim the excess than have not enough. Below you'll find the instructions for both wire and string. If your using string or cotton cord tie a clasp on the end. Add your beads, charms if using string, tie off. Now if you choose you can leave the center area empty. Measure the space for your book, and knot it again, then add the rest of beads and clasp. Trim excess and you're done. The whole thing took me about 10- 15 mins, not counting disruptions caused by children, I think that's only because I'm picky. If your going to use wire then it's slightly different. It starts off the same measure your book and wire. Bigger is better. Measure the space for your book and mark the center. Using a crimp bead attach one end of the clasp, add your beads, using the seed beads to fill in between your marks. Add the other end of beads/ charms, and attach clasp, with crimp bead. Trim excess and you're done. These take much longer due to the amount of seed beads you have to put on. Now you have your very own bookmark bracelet.
Caedmon Wolves Volume I Books 1-3 Ambrielle Kirk Genre: Paranormal Romance/Wolf-Shifter Romance ISBN: 978-1484996591 ASIN: B00BLVKNT0 Number of pages: 418 print Word Count: 103,000 Cover Artist: Elaina Lee Amazon BN ARe
Book Description: Wolf’s Haven Caedmon Wolves, 1 Tamara would risk her life to gain freedom. She's finally built up the courage to escape from a world of abuse by the hands of man who promised her the world. One night she makes a break for it, but her plans backfire. She begins to believe that she was never meant to be happy. When all hope of freedom fades, she stumbles across a wolf that brings her to safety. She learns to trust the wolf, but has yet to trust the man. Devin, potential future leader of the Caedmon Pack, returns to the foothills of his Virginia home after five long years as a lone wolf. Rivals within the circle challenge him and threaten to strip him of his true birthright. Being bound to lead the pack was not something Devin had planned for his life, but letting his people fall prey to turmoil under the rule of his cousin Darius is out of the question. The night of Devin's rise to Alpha leader is approaching. Despite opposition, he's gained an impressive following. That is until he brings a human among the pack. Tamara can't deny the attraction she feels toward Devin. The Alpha leader-to-be simply cannot resist Tamara's lure. When they are together, their tribulations take the backburner. Their desire for one another grows as they consummate their passion in wolf's haven. Will Devin forfeit the most coveted position within the Caedmon Pack to bond with his chosen mate? Can Tamara trust Devin with her mind, heart, body, and soul or will the memories of her abuse dissuade her from being bound to the wolf?
no one to know how much of a coward he was. Chapter One
Swallowing, she bit the corners of her lips. She’d waited for this opportunity for months.
"Are you in…or are you out?"
The chance to be free of the conniving bastard and the controlling dangerous life that he’d
Tamara glared at her fiancé. The demand- tricked her to lead. ing expression on Brad’s face was the same Her plans were already in place. All she exact look he gave her when he wanted somehad to do was make one call and her contact thing. Only this time, no physical force folwould be waiting. She would be free from this lowed. After all, they were surrounded by his life. partners in crime. He wouldn't dare lift a hand "Yes, I'm in." Her voice came out on a to strike her around other people. Brad wanted
hoarse whisper.
contemplated the consequences. If she failed
"A ride or die chick." One of Brad's friends this escape, there would be hell to pay and she chuckled. "What does a guy have to do to get just might lose with her life. The last time she one of those nowadays?" Brad grabbed the duffle bag at his feet and grinned. "It's an acquired skill." If they only knew. Brad Thatcher wasn't the man he portrayed himself to be. Over the last ten months, he'd turned to heavy drinking each night. Then the verbal abuse turned into something much worse. She had something to show for being so vulnerable. The bruises on her skin. Now, she feared for her life. This situation had gone too far. Tamara had never envisioned being with a man who seemed to thrive off her pain. He was never going to get better. Her counselor had warned her of this. She'd even ticked off the list of warning signs to watch for in his behavior. Throwing jealous tantrums if she so much as looked at another man. Trying to control her every move and keeping her under lock and key. Verbal insults escalating into gripping her in the fit of rebellious rages. One after the other, the signs became clearer. Brad was an abuser. Of women, drugs, and alcohol. Yet she stayed. Her heart pounded uncontrollably as she
threatened to leave him, he'd freaked out. She still had the marks on her neck to show for it. "I need to use the bathroom before we leave." Tamara looked to Brad for his approval. "Ah man. We don't have time for this." Brad's second sidekick yelled from the driver's side of the vehicle. "We have to be at the museum during the shift change-over." Brad and his crew made their living as thieves. It was fast, easy money. They were bandits who ran from the law and walked on the edge. Her fiancĂŠ had hidden his shady side job from her while they dated. He'd painted himself to be the picture perfect husband-to-be, but he was a fake. Her normal boring life had been turned upside down. It all started when he lost his job for money laundering. She stood by her man back then. Had even persuaded him to pursue other careers, but Brad had alternative motives. Things got out of hand, and soon her husband-to-be turned out to be the fiancĂŠ from hell. By the time she caught on, she was in too deep. "I need to go," she repeated in a harsher tone. She'd pay for acting out like this later.
"You better hurry." Brad’s lips formed a taut line. He turned his attention back to his crew. "She's the only one who can fit through the vent." As Tamara walked off to the bathroom in the back of the warehouse, they discussed strategy among themselves. After locking the door behind her, she retrieved a small cell phone from the sleeve of her boot. Her fingers shook as she flipped the lid. Just before punching in the numbers she'd remembered by heart, she exhaled. Tamara paced the cramped space of the one stall bathroom, praying for Selene to pick up the phone. This was her only hope. Just when she thought her plans would backfire, her counselor answered the phone. "Hello." The voice sounded groggy on the other
"I'm ready." "Give me your location." "About ten miles south of Blue Hills, Virginia. Near an industrial area." Outside the door, she heard the van engine start. Brad shouted her name. "Selene…I don't have much time," Tamara whispered into the phone with urgency. "Wait. Let me get my laptop.” There was some fumbling on the other end. “I think I know where you are. Industry Park. Near the city. Shoot! I’m getting you out of there.” The sound of fingers tapping furious at the keyboard flowed through the phone line. “You are to board the next train out of the Westbed station. A man in a red cap will be waiting with your ticket.” Each time she'd called Selene, they'd discussed her getaway. She'd chickened out twice
end. At nearly two hours before midnight, she before. The promise of a new beginning and expected this much. She only hoped that Sele- identity seemed like the life change she needne could still help her. It had been a while
ed, but the consequences if she failed this es-
since she’d last spoken with the counselor.
cape loomed her conscience.
"Selene," she whispered into the phone. "It's me. Tamara." There was a bunch a ruffling on the other end. "Tamara. I haven't heard from you in three months. What's wrong? What happened?"
"How—" Brad banged on the door. "Get your ass out here. Now." Tamara's heart jumped and her voice lodged in her throat. Brad jiggled the door
handle and pushed against it. It rattled on the
afraid to fight back.
frames.
wouldn’t be any escaping from here. Not even
She bent down and touched the hilt of the pocket knife hidden in her other boot just to make sure it was still there. The cell phone was gone. Now
a small dog could pass through the bars.
she only had the knife to protect herself. Last
She looked up at the small window. There
Darting over to the sink, she turned on the faucet. "I'll be right out. I'm just washing up." "Washing up, my ass." Using the weight of his body, Brad burst into the doors. Acting quickly, Tamara tossed the cell in the waste basket under the sink. He reached out and grabbed her by the forearm. "What the fuck are you doing in here?" She flinched as he tightened his grip,
time, she threatened to use a weapon on him, he'd laughed in her face. Said that she wouldn't dare kill him. He thought this was a game. She'd come to the realization that Brad loved to taunt her. It turned him on to see her in pain. But how far would he go? How far would he go until she ended up dead in a landfill? Tamara swallowed. The smoke from Brad’s cigarette wafted to the back of van when he opened the window to flick the ashes away. In the other hand, he had
pinching her skin. "I was just washing my
a bottle of vodka. As he took a swig of the poi-
hands."
son that fueled his rage, a sense of hopeless-
"You're taking too long." He led her out of
ness consumed her and she squeezed her eyes
the bathroom, practically pushing her towards
shut. She was tired of his perilous ways. Tired
the waiting van. After shoving her inside, he
of feeling like a prison in a dreadful place.
slid the door closed. "Let's go." He jumped into No matter what he'd done to her, it pained her to see him throw his life away in exchange for the passenger seat. quick money, drugs, and alcohol. She had to Tamara took a seat in the back of the van. get out of this relationship. She wanted to get out now. Her palms stung, and she looked down to find her hands balled in a tight fist. Violence wasn't the answer. She wouldn't dare stoop to that level. So many times she'd wanted to hurt Brad. She hated him—despised him for making her
ClaraBelle’s Custom Creations Book Swag from Bewitching Book Tours Bewitching Book Tours is now offering custom book swag creations that can be added on to tour packages for giveaways or ordered separately. We are offering high quality, hand crafted, one of a kind items made to match your book. No two items will ever be exactly alike because of the creativity and materials that go into the creation process. Currently we are offering beaded key-chains, purse charms, wine glass charms, and book thongs. We hope to offer a wider variety of products soon but we are starting with some of the most popular book swag creations. These items can be created with colored beads to match the colors in your book cover. We can also add small charms to coordinate with book content- some of the silver charms available are: vampire fangs, wolves, witch hats, keys, books, hearts, haunted houses, bats, and owls. Our goal is to create custom book swag to represent your book. You can also opt to have the items completely customized by adding your book cover to a metal charm. Forgive my pictures- my photography skills are terrible and do not do these items justice. I hope to soon have better images for everyone to see but I wanted to get the news out that we now offer Custom Book Swag. Email RoxanneRhoads@bewitchingbooktours.com for price quotes
We slid almost silently through the darkness under the trees, with me growing more used to the way the wolf moved with every stride. Soon we were passing Afgar, a town almost twenty miles south of Flowen, with Kyda and Lydia showing no sign of slowing. I wasn't tired as we slowed, nearing Fulchurch, fifty miles from Flowen. We were on the shore of a very large lake, and I saw land on the other side of the water, along with some lights. Kyda sniffed at me and head butted my side, then rolled her eyes and licked the side of my face. I yipped at her in protest and grabbed her ruff in my teeth. She yapped and pushed me over, and the pair of us tumbled across the grass. "Whoa... Charlie, look at this." The three of us stopped moving, Lydia and Kyda looking in the direction of the voices. I stepped forward, wagging my tail like a dog. "What're you three doing out on a night like this?" one of the boys asked, crouching down as I approached. I could hear Kyda and Lydia coming up behind me. "Aren't you a pretty dog?" the original speaker asked Kyda, taking a step toward her. "Your fur looks so soft." Lydia sniffed at the boys, and then something in the darkness grabbed her attention. A young girl stepped out into the moonlight, looking around the age of Charlie and his friend. "No collars," the other boy said, peering at us. "You aren't huskies or malamutes, but your fur's really thick." I smiled at him and bared my teeth, licking at
Charlie's face as the girl carefully stroked Lydia's black back. Lydia turned and snapped at the girl, catching her arm. My stomach rumbled as the scent of blood covered the air, along with the girl's screams. "Bad dog!" Charlie yelled, pushing at Lydia's shoulder. "Let Mel go!" Lydia turned to snap at him, and Charlie jumped out of the way, pulling Mel out of the way of Lydia's next snap. I remembered what I was and growled at Charlie, licking my lips and locking my sight on his throat. "I don't think they're dogs, Charlie," the other boy said, backing away from Kyda, watching Charlie and Mel as carefully as us. "I think they're wolves." Charlie looked at Kyda, who had joined Lydia and I in advancing on Mel. I saw fear cross his eyes, and I licked my lips, crouching. Fear was good. "The Ontario Wolf," Charlie gasped, looking at Kyda. "Shit. Andrew, Mel, run!" I leapt, seizing his arm, as Mel and Andrew broke into a sprint, scrambling for the trees. I pulled Charlie to the ground and shook him, listening with delight to his screams, tasting the human's blood. It was warm and delicious, perfect to my new tastes. Kyda and Lydia took off after the humans, howling their thrill at the chase. I pulled at Charlie's arm, and heard something snap.
Book Description: Upon a dark and blood-filled hour, humanity's doom will rise to power. Werewolves are real. They haunt the woods of North America, feeding on the bodies of humans stupid enough to blunder across their paths. Once rogue and uncoordinated, the rise of their goddess Alsvinth has brought them all together, with one goal: destroy as much of the species as necessary to enslave them within meat farms, to feed the werewolf army taking over the world. Olivia, a werewolf from western Canada, and her brother Charlie set out to kill the goddess and save humanity. But can the werewolf and human destroy the goddess’s power, or will she prevail and turn the planet into a wasteland?
About the Author: An author living in Canberra, Australia, Holly Hunt writes a collection of works including Sci-fi, Fantasy, Horror and Romance. Currently undergoing an apprenticeship in Butchery, Holly spends her days off writing and watching superhero cartoons. Holly lives with her partner, Matthew, in a two-bedroom unit crammed with comics and movie memorabilia. She dreams of one day owning a big garden, three dogs and a cat, and can’t wait until that day gets here.
http://rhythempoets.wordpress.com/ http://www.facebook.com/pages/Holly-Hunt/111905542194012 https://twitter.com/hollyhuntauthor http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4717881.Holly_Hunt
~The Apple Of My Eye~ By Annette Marie Guerriero Nishimoto I knew the day I held you, That you would make me cry. I also knew I would love you, Until the day I die. My daughter, The apple of my eye. I’ve watched you crawl along the floor, And now you’re heading out the door. Kindergarten to High School, They go by so fast. I just can’t believe, That they’re now in the past. My daughter, The apple of my eye. You will learn And you will grow. You’ll change in ways, You’ll never know. I’ve always been proud of you, You know this is true. The years you’ll be gone, I won’t know what to do. When you return, You will shine. My joy will flow over, knowing that you are mine. My daughter, The apple of my eye.
I’m Kay Dee Royal, an author who loves writing and reading paranormal, fantasy, and contemporary erotica romance. My muse enjoys being taken away by strong, intelligent, confident heroines and rescued by wild, rugged, beastly heroes, both of which harbor shadowy secrets of intrigue and fun. My muse lives for the escape (LOL), imagine that. With that in mind, besides telling the tales of paranormal beings, there are also humans with paranormal abilities…like Olivia. She’s a fifty-five year old widow of a philandering husband (for the entire thirty-four years of their marriage) and has never had children.
about Olivia’s psychic ability with wildlife. The thing about Olivia, she could only ‘read’ creatures, not humans. So, the first time she meets a Lycan in human-form…to be exact, four Lycan in human-form, she’s totally thrown off with sensory overload. It was one of my favorite scenes to writeJ And, the Lycan had no clue she could ‘read’ them…even better So, what paranormal abilities would you like a human heroine to possess? Here’s a scene of Olivia being somewhat challenged by her ability… Staring Into the Eyes of Chance
A LIIA (Lycan International Investigation AgenOlivia began at an early age ‘reading’ animals… cy) Book (Series ~ Book any wildlife or domesticated animal. She never reOne) alized everyone couldn’t do what she did— Genre: knowing what the little OR big creatures were Paranormal Erotica Romance ~ Must be 18 or oldthinking. In her very early years, she didn’t know er, Explicit Love Scenes Rated Sizzling Hot how she knew an animal’s mood, but she had the ability to calm them and understand their wants and Excerpt: needs. Olivia closed her eyes, calling up her animal sensitivity ability, while shoving down her own As she grew older, certain kids bullied her…until she hid her gift/talent. Not until she was in her ear- panic. After years of psychically working with anily twenty’s, did she come out of the closet to a mals, she knew they sensed panic and fear. Her close friend…not even her sister, Lacey knows
breathing needed regulating.
beside her, searching his energy markers, his emo-
Olivia relaxed as best she could and opened tions, urges. She read him as curious, stimulated. her mind. She sensed the wolf; masculine. He
Maybe a misread of…sexually stimulated? She sat
came across with an urgent need to protect, more
back on her haunches, figuring if she stretched at
like helping her feel safe. Another howl, with a
least four feet of her five-foot ten frame, maybe
deep and sinister timbre, shattered her concentra-
she’d appear larger. His breath assailed her from
tion. A stab of electricity zipped through her,
above, she remained squatted.
pumping adrenaline and tightening every muscle.
Damn, this thing is huge!
This howl came from farther inside the forest than
He sniffed the top of her head, down by her
the first one. She sensed aggression in the wolves
ear, licked the length of her neck and up the side of
within the forest, ready for battle. Her heart
her face. Another howl close by, echoing near the
drummed against her ribs in anticipation of an an-
tree-line, got the wolf’s attention. He raised his
swering call, and she couldn’t stop the tremors
head from her and shoved her body back with his
running rampant in her belly.
own. She went down on her butt, folding her legs
Instead she saw the lights go out through
sideways. Fur from his backside pressed into the
her closed eyelids. She opened her eyes and saw
front of her, including her face. Olivia turned her
nothing but blackness.
head away and took a breath. A shiver began in
Nine o’clock on a September evening, what her belly and inched through her arms, legs, and did she expect? Damn power company! Hopefully
up her neck. She sensed his urgency, he must
Lacey sat in the Jacuzzi and wouldn’t come run-
move and his need…again, to keep her safe and
ning out.
again something else, another misread?
She lay listening for any sound. Her own
He moved back, his head next to hers. A
breath, the loudest panting she’d ever heard, came growl vibrated, harsh and deep, beside her ear. in at a close second to her heart banging against
Olivia jumped when he yipped instead of howled.
the walls of her chest. Slowly, she sat up. The back He circled her, stopping behind her. A sudden of her head throbbed, her spine hurt, and the front
scratch of claws and pebbles from rain washout
of her body ached, especially her breasts. She bent near the barn pelted her. Air swirled around her as her legs to stand and in that same moment a jet of
the wolf leaped over her head in the direction of
hot mist coated her face.
the woods.
Wolf breath. Olivia froze, tamping down the run-foryour-life urge. Her mind reached toward the beast
Olivia’s breath whooshed out like a balloon being released. Tears welled and trickled down her face. The wolf’s size was about as abnormal as it
got. She’d never heard of any wolf being that large. turned for a shot, she saw the tail end of both She’d done plenty of research on the species,
wolves leaping into the woods, her wolf chasing
brushing up for the wolf pup she rehabilitated and
the other.
released back into the wild years ago when Ray and
Olivia leaned against the barn, adjusting her
she first opened the refuge, before they owned the
position in accordance with her pain. She thought
preserve property.
of the curious readings she sensed from her wolf,
Olivia pushed herself up onto wobbly legs,
not sure of their meaning. She never questioned
her stomach lurched, and before she could blink,
first impressions from readings anymore. Years of
vomit spewed. She retched hard, falling onto her
experiences proved first intuitive readings rang as
hands and knees, weak and crying, something she
authentic truth in almost every case.
hadn’t done since Ray’s funeral. As if on cue, all
She closed her eyes and pictured her wolf
the lights popped on, illuminating her shadow
looking at her for the first time, the way his head
against the barn wall.
snapped in her direction and how their gazes met
Oh, that’s lovely. Damn power company. A howl, and then another
and connected. She touched her neck, sliding fingertips up her cheek where his tongue touched her skin. Her breath
and another, echoed from differ-
caught, heart raced, and her eyes
ent locations in the forest. Her
opened wide. She laughed out loud,
forest, her wildlife preserve, not
maybe in relief, maybe in a small fit of
a place for a beast like her visi-
hysteria, or maybe because she consid-
tor, and most definitely not a
er that wolf as “her” wolf. Her
place for the aggressive lot in the forest. She
“stimulation” readings from him threw her off,
swiped her face with the bottom of her shirt and
knowing it wasn’t a possibility.
looked toward the woods.
Buy Links: Muse It Up Publishing Amazon Staring Into the Eyes of Chance Coffee Time Ro-
About thirty yards away in the mowed meadow, her wolf circled with another, close-insize, milky-eyed wolf with a deformed face, both
mance Buy Link
All Romance ebooks For more info on Kay Dee Royal, you can find her spot-lighted in the yard light. They flashed razor at: sharp teeth and glowing eyes, with the exception of Kay Dee Royal ~ Paranormal & Erotica Romance Musings; the one’s coated eye. Their vicious growls and Ravencraft’s Romance Realm; MuseItHot; Twitsnapping jaws filled the air. Olivia found her tranq ter; FB gun on the ground and grabbed it. By the time she
Savage Smoke Lycan International Investigation Agency Series (LIIA) Book Two Kay Dee Royal Genre: Paranormal Erotic Romance Publisher: Muse It Hot Publishing Date of Publication: June 21, 2013 Number of pages: 223 Word Count: 58,000 Cover Artist: Suzannah Safi Book Description: Chance and his LIIA pack of agents search for rogue Lycan mastermind, Smoke, kidnapper of Lindsey and fifteen other human women he plans to use for procreating his own army. Trevor, Chance’s right-hand Lycan, wants his mate back, but believes she’s fallen for her captor. Lindsey loves Trevor but believes he’s given up on her. Will Trevor come around in time to rescue Lindsey and save her from shifting into Smoke’s pack, and will she even want back with Trevor after spending so long apart? Warning: Sizzling HOT! Lots of two-somes, three-somes, even more-somes, stimulating, arousing, and positively natural…or supernatural.
What inspired you to become an author?
--I can’t really pick just one. I love writing crime fiction because my family has a background in law enforcement and I received my degree in criminology, so I get to use a lot of the knowledge and research from those areas.
--I’ve always loved books and story-telling. Even back in middle and high school I would write stories in notebooks, creating my own little worlds. Eventually, I decided I wanted to share those stories with other people. At the same time, some of my favorite books growing up—and even now—are romance Do you have a specific writing style? and paranormal, so I feel as if I have more of a draw and infinity for those genres. --I think each series has its own voice and style but I’ve been told that they all tend to Is there anything you find particularly chalhave the same underlying snark—and steamy lenging in your writing? sex. --There’s always one or two difficult passages Do you write in different genres? to write in every book. Without fail, I get hung up on them either immediately before or dur--So far I’ve written in urban fantasy/ ing the writing. It’s like my brain and emoparanormal romance and crime fiction flations are trying to save me from the fall-out. vored with the paranormal. Still, I have to push through those passages because without them, the story just isn’t the same. But I like to reward myself with chocoIf yes which is your favorite genre to write? late and a good comedy when I finish writing
one. Of all the characters you’ve ever written, who is your favorite and why? --If I had to pick only one, it would be Joanne from the WINGED series. More than any of my other lead characters, she undergoes a massive amount of change and growth and she still manages to retain the core of who she is. That’s a hard thing to do under the best of circumstances. Doing it in the middle of a war…that’s nothing short of amazing. Do you have a song or playlist (book soundtrack) that you think represents this book? --The song that always plays in my head, no matter which book in the series I’m writing, is Kelly Clarkson’s Honestly from her latest album. One of the lines is “If you’re hating me/Do it honestly”, which is a theme that plays through the series. If this book is part of a series…what is the next book? Any details you can share? --The next book in the series is LOST, due out June 11. What is next for you? Do you have any scheduled upcoming releases or works in progress? --After LOST, I have three more releases this year: HUNT in August, ALLIANCE in October, and BATTLE in December.
About the Author: L.M. Pruitt has been reading and writing for as long as she can remember. A native of Florida with a love of New Orleans, she has the uncanny ability to find humor in most things and would probably kill a plastic plant. She is the author of the best-selling Jude Magdalyn series, the Moon Rising series, and the Frankie Post series. She is currently at work on the next Jude Magdalyn book, Shades of Blood. She makes her home in Florida with one two cats—one smart, the other an idiot.
Vampire News: Tasty Bits To Sink Your Fangs Into! Vampire News Book One Stavros & Bertena Varney, M.A.M.Ed Genre: Nonfiction Vampires Publisher: Crazy Duck Press (CDP) Date of Publication: April 2012 ISBN: 9780982812143 Number of pages: 100 Cover Artist: Stavros Vampire News Trailer: http://youtu.be/YvSBBSStGyE Crazy Duck Press The Arti(s)fact Store Book Browser Amazon Vampire News: The (not so) End Times Edition Vampire News Book Two Stavros & Bertena Varney, M.A.M.Ed
Genre: Nonfiction Vampires Publisher: Crazy Duck Press (CDP) Date of Publication: Kindle - March 2013
Print – April 2013
ISBN: 9780982812150 Number of pages: 188 Cover Artist: Stavros CDP eShop The Arti(s)fact Store Book Browser Amazon Kindle Amazon Print Vampire News Book Description: Collected & Edited by Stavros & Bertena Varney, M.A.M.Ed Vampire News is a nonfiction annual anthology that collects all the tasty happenings in vampiredom. Straddling both the real and unreal realms of this most famous and hidden culture, Vampire News is the only anthology of its kind. Now with the release of Vampire News: The (not so) End Times Edition, this second installment of The Vampire News Network's annual anthology delivers even more undead goodness with just a twist of apocalyptic Mayan humor! So, whether you love the romantic, dangerous, or traditional vampires, whether you prefer a good book or to wait up late at night to catch the noir classics; or whether you stand anxiously in movie lines, blog, or are a member of a daring vampire community, drink blood, psychically feed, or support famous and up-n-coming authors, get vamp tattoos, make fangs, bite people, go to Cons, or are waiting in the wings of some dark dream, then Vampire News is for You! With more articles, interviews, essays, and the largest Vampire Timeline ever compiled by man, Vampire Professor, Bertena Varney, M.A.M.Ed, and acclaimed author, artist, and fangsmith, Stavros, have established themselves with a truly delightful tome for vampyre/vampire fans of all ages! Researched thoroughly with love and dedication, Vampire News features some of the most insightful facts, tips, blips, quips, notes, essays, articles, interviews, art, news reports, weblinks, and radical thoughts from many of today’s leading authors, professors, fangsmiths, enthusiasts, musicians, models, photographers, and fun-loving nuts working within the vampire genre today! Vampire News gives readers a unique look at what lies behind the biggest social subgenre of all time. It exposes the hype and uncovers the real-life world that awaits you just around the corner. So, enter and step into a world that you may think you know from the people that craft the stuff of nightmares and walk the twilight glade between this world and the stuff of dreams! We dare you!!!
About the Author- Stavros: Notorious Poet. Fool. Born in Washington DC. Stavros was a writer and editor for The Independent Underground Magazine. Raised in Southern Maryland, he fled the Chesapeake Bay to the wilds of the New Mexican desert. He is a single father of two, whose poetic works have been published in several online and print publications, including Central Avenue, The Sword That Cuts Through Stone, Poets Against The War, Conceptions Southwest, The Mynd, Imagine: Creative Arts Journal, and Bartleby, where he won a specialty award for his poem, Blackbird. In 1999, he won an Official Selection into the Writer’s on the Edge Festival for his play, The Redline. In 2001, he created the Poetry Television Project for public cable access in Albuquerque, NM. All eight volumes of Ptv’s ground-breaking show were broadcast to over 100,000 viewers on a network of regional PAC channels throughout the Southwest and Baltimore. He helped to launch Unpublished Magazine, sponsored the monthly poetry series, The Word Café, in the Duke city, and produced a political compilation, Poetic Democracy. In 2007, he released the award-winning documentary film, Committing Poetry in Times of War. In 2010, he launched the production management company, Organic Ghetto, and released its first imprint, Crazy Duck Press, with his first novel, Blood Junky. Blood Junky received exceptional praise and review, even being called "one of the best vampire novels ever written," by Living Dead Media. The following year he helped to launch BioGamer Girl, undertook a bigger East coast tour where he began selling his original photographic art, and released two new novels through Crazy Duck Press. Dead Girl: A Romantic Zombie Tale of Revenge features a stunning full-color cover and twelve black and white illustrations from tattoo artist, Charles Hearn. Blood Junky’s sequel, Love in Vein, cemented the One Blood series with its continuation of the story, garnering such review as to claim that the book and the series is "comparable with, and at times surpasses, the 'Vampire Chronicles' by Anne Rice."
In 2012, Stavros joined forces with the Vampire Professor, Bertena Varney, M.A.M.Ed, to co-create the nonfiction annual anthology, Vampire News, and officially became a Fangsmith with the creation of Organic Ghetto's second imprint, Kaos Kustom Fangs. He rounded out the year by writing and editing screenplays for the One Blood Transmedia Project, recording Dead Girl as an audio book, and undertaking his biggest national marketing campaign, The Book & Fang Tour.
In 2013, he and the Vampire Professor released the second volume of Vampire News: The (not so) End Times Edition and is currently working on writing and growing his imprints. Stavros is also a musician who has scored commercials, film shorts, documentaries, and television programs. Stavros FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/stavros.cockrell Author Blog: http://www.bitemereallyhard.com Kaos Kustom Fangs: http://www.kaoskustomfangs.com/ Vampire News CDP Page: http://www.crazyduckpress.com/#!vampire-news/c2kd Vampire News FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/VampireNews CDP eShop: http://www.crazyduckpress.com/#! shop/c6cv CDP Twitter: https://twitter.com/CrazyDuckPress Stavros Twitter https://twitter.com/VisualLyricist
Vampire News Giveaway 1 grand prize pack containing t-shirt, sticker, art print, button and book 1 prize pack containing a button and t-shirt 1 prize pack containing an art print and button 10 ebooks copies of Vampire News (winner’s choice 1 or 2) author’s choice of designs for items in prize packs-Physical prizes open to US Shipping Enter here: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ba112f296/
Heart Murmurs R.R. Smythe
Goodreads Excerpt Opening Heart Murmurs:
Genre : YA I don’t remember dying. Publisher: Astraea Press “Stand back. Clear!” Mia Templeton is dying. Or was dying. After receiving a heart transplant, her world is forever altered. Before her eyes open, she overhears her donor was a murdered girl of the same age. Whispers invade Mia’s head before she’s even left the recovery room. She develops tastes for foods she once hated, and dreams so vivid, she feels they’re someone else’s memories. Her personality is altered—once a quiet doormat, she’s now inexplicably flippant, and confident. And her unexplained longing for the new boy at school is borderline obsessive.
Nothing. A feeling of floating, weightlessness. “Oh, please, please, baby.” My mother’s voice, sounding uncharacteristically hysterical. “Clear!” A spreading, burning under my ribcage. Followed by a surging river of heat to my heart. It stutters, rumbling like a kettledrum inside my ribs, and up into my skull. “Come on, Mia.” My father, unglued.
The steady beep-beep-beep of a monitor and the Morgan Kelley is new. Adopted by his aunt, a whooshing of a respirator. My chest rises up and descendant of Louisa May Alcott (Little Wom- down without my permission, a puppet to the en), he’s thrown into life at a new high school, machine. A rushing sound, like water filling a and as a historical guide for his aunt’s store—a vacuum, clogs my ears. My new heart, my new homage to all things Alcott. Conspiracy theories heart, accelerates, beating so fast, it feels as if it abound about his mangled lower leg—but nowill take flight from my newly stapled sternum. one has been brave enough to ask. Till Mia. A dull, muted pain aches through my chest; Something is awry with the Underground Rail- which will, no doubt, intensify when the drugs road tunnels beneath his aunt's home. Mia and wear off. Morgan enter the world of a secret Literary Society--and are drafted to help bring a rogue Liter- “Too fast.” The monitor is screaming, wailing ary giant to justice, solve the mystery of her like a kid’s tantrum. heart donor, the real fate of Beth from Little Women. Two choked sobs. Mom... and Beth.
Beth is here, how wonderful. I try to move my fingers, to tell her I’m okay. Don’t cry. My brain says lift, but all I got was—“Her fingers twitched. I saw them.” Beth’s voice, relieved and oh-so scared.
I feel the burning rush of something shoot into my IV. It’s liquid fire. I trace its path up my arm, into my brain, addling it. But relief is the trade-off. The pain backs off.
My heart thrums, finally steady and even. It feels Thump-thump. Thump-thump. It is the only strange, too far back in my chest. Like an illsound I hear, for what seems a very long time... fitting shirt. I raise my hands to try to scratch it, adjust it. About the Author “Mia? Mia, can you hear me? We’re all here, Born and raised in western Pennsylvania, R R darling. Dad and Beth, and Claire is outside.” Smythe is the daughter of two teachers. Her writing reflects her passions: science, history and I feel the tube down my throat, choking me. I suck in for air, but my chest rises on its own, in- love--not necessarily in that order. In real terfering with my breathing. I feel like I’m suffo- life, the geek gene runs strong in her family, as does the Asperger's syndrome. Her writing recating, despite the oxygen shoved up my nosflects her experience as a pediatric therapist and trils. her interactions with society's downtrodden. In “She’s trying to breathe on her own. We need to fiction, she's a strong believer in underdogs and adjust the respirator. Easy, Mia.” Dr. Starzel, my happily-ever-afters. She also writes non-fiction and lectures on the subjects of autism and sensoown personal medical savior. ry integration and is a medical contributor to Two unfamiliar, whispering, conspiratorial voic- online journal The Age of Autism. es, “I can’t believe they found a donor, just in She also writes under the pseudonym Brynn time.” Chapman . “The report said it was a homeless girl. She was murdered.” “For heaven’s sake! She may be able to hear you. One more word and I’ll have both of your babbling traps fired.” My father chastises the women, whom I guess to be nurses, by the soft squeaks of their retreating Crocs. I have a murder victim’s heart? Worry tickles the back of my brain. How did they find a donor? How—I’m struck with pain so blinding, I feel my brain shrivel inward. Like a cowering child. And hear nothing. The weightless feeling is back.
CHAPTER_1 "What do you know about my sister and that prancin' prick of a fairy prince?" Elora blinked, but in the space of that flutter he learned all he needed to know. He had found out the first night Storm brought her to poker, back at Jefferson Unit, that her very expressive face telegraphed even the tiniest nuance or feeling or thought. By now he knew her so well that she was as transparent as air. She was caught off guard because she hadn't expected that question while Ram was cooking a leisurely Sunday breakfast. "Say that three times fast?" "No' goin' to work this time. Stay on topic." "You just don't like him because he can stand toe to toe with you and not be cowed by the H.O.H. elfster." "ELFSTER!? What in Paddy's Name, Elora? And what is H.O.H.?" "Hall of Heroes." Ram turned away from frying bacon and gave her a look. It probably didn't have the effect he intended. He was wearing jeans, a long sleeve black tee that stretched across his chest enticingly, and a black Jack Daniels apron tied around his waist. She thought perhaps nothing was sexier than watching Ram's muscles ripple while cooking her breakfast. "Do no' try to deflect. 'Tis I. And Paddy knows I can tell when you're hidin' somethin'." Ram looked determined. "Speaking of hiding. You're going to have to do something about all these guys overrunning our property. Our home - the one that was intended to be our very own, very private property. Please, Ram. Make them go away." His expression softened a little as he decided to allow himself to be temporarily derailed. "Sol, Simon, and every one of your friends agree that we can no' leave you and Helm vulnerable after the threat those alien buggers left hangin' in the air. That
goes especially for your friend, Sir Storm." "My friend, Sir Storm?" "Aye. Your friend. The bloody wanker suggested that I'm no' responsible enough to be entrusted with lookin' out for you. Said, 'You're no' takin' good care of my namesake's mother. I'll be forced to give the job to someone else if you do no' shape up and begin takin' it seriously'." Elora laughed. "He said that?" "Aye. As if 'twas all my doin' that you ended up givin' birth alone in a freezin' wolf cave. With. No. Phone." "Well..." Ram narrowed his eyes at her. "Think very carefully about what you are about to say before you say it." Elora smiled brightly. "I was going to say that no one in his right mind could fault you." Ram nodded and resumed turning the bacon. "Exactly. I should have reminded him what happened when he was in charge of the Baka interview at Unit Drac. He pouted for hours after learnin' first hand that the Lady Laiken does as she fuck-well pleases." Elora concurred by nodding vigorously. "It's a burden, but you bear it well, my love." "All kiddin' aside. I do. I really do." He began setting strips of cooked bacon out to drain the grease. "Well, Sir Storm is going to be plenty busy with his own burdens." "What's your meanin?" "They're expecting." "Expectin' a baby?" "No. They're expecting Publishers Clearing House to pay for their villa renovation." Ram gave her a look. "You know, I'm thinkin' there's only enough of this lovely bacon for one and, since I cooked, I really should be keepin' it for myself." "Yes! They're expecting a baby. Litha thinks it's a girl." "A girl!" Ram practically whooped. "Paddy's Great Balls Afire. I can no' wait to see Storm try to be da to a girl." He laughed enjoying that idea and then grew serious. "As for the buggers who violated my grandda's
forest, I'll no' be givin' 'em a second chance at my family." "Rammel. I hear you and I understand you." "I do no' suppose the next sentence will be 'and I obey you'." Elora smirked while she snagged a piece of bacon. "Have I ever mentioned you make great bacon?" She nuzzled his ear on the way back to her stool. "Almost as good as chocolate." Ram pointed a spatula at her. "I swear to Paddy you have that thin'... that ADDD." "ADHD?" "Aye." Elora started laughing. "Pot." When his brows drew together she smiled because Helm looked at her with that same expression several times a day. They made him accidentally in a snow covered cottage, but he was made with love and now he was a little bit her and a little bit him. A miracle indeed. "You can no' concentrate 'cause you've been smokin' dope?" "No! 'Pot' as in 'you're the pot calling the kettle black'." Ram stared at her for a few beats, finally shook his head and said, "No idea." "You don't have an expression here about the pot calling the kettle black?" "We do no' that I know of, but I think I begin to follow your point. You're tryin' to say that I should no' be accusin' you of short attention because mine is even shorter?" Of their own accord, his eyes drifted down to the cleavage showing between the henley buttons she'd left undone. She chuckled. "See?" "See what?" She did a little shimmy and he grinned sheepishly. "Guilty." He put an orange juice in front of her. "And be careful of the sexy dancin'. You'll be gettin' Helm's milk all over your clothes again." Elora rolled her eyes. "He gets enough. Have you seen how chubby his little face is getting?" "Well, blood will tell." Elora narrowed her eyes to slits. "Rammel. Paddy help you if you're saying what I think you're saying." "All I'm sayin' is that chubby cheeks do no' run on my side of the family." When she took a mock threatening step toward him, he laughed. "Just teasin' darlin' girl. Just teasin'. You know I would no' change a hair on your head. Or his." "Okay. All I'm sayin' is that insanity doesn't run on my side of the family." A look of horror slowly covered
her face as she realized what she'd just said. She hadn't yet personally confronted what the assassin in the woods had said about the Laiwynn clan, but if it was true, it meant that cruelty and despotic behavior might run in her family. Ram put his utensils down, wiped his hand on his apron, and offered himself for a hug. She stepped into the comfort of his arms. "What I was trying to tell you earlier is that I've never made any secret of the fact that I won't give up my freedom to live a restricted life, no matter how luxurious or comfortable. Not for anything." "No' even for Helm? And me?" "That's not fighting fair and you know it." "When it comes to your safety - and our son's - you think I care about fightin' fair? 'Tis the very last of my concerns." "Let me put it this way. You need to come up with a more agreeable Plan B and you need to do it while I'm still in a listening mood." "Any ideas?" She looked down at her pretty Holland china plate, part of the set they got as a wedding present from Kay and Katrina. She had a picture of how good life was going to be there in their new home. Had the Ralengclan assassins spoiled her vision of the future to the point of ruin? Was it time to confront that possibility? "No." When she looked back up, Ram thought he might have seen her look just a little worn. Like her aura hadn't been buffed in a while. Sometimes he caught her looking off into space and he suspected that she was thinking about what she'd been told by the Ralengclan assassin, wondering if the massacre of her family was really a coup d'etat." Armed people guarding the house. Hardly what I pictured." "I know." Ram sat down next to her and took her hand in his. "We'll figure it out. Monq's workin' on it." He pulled up like he had an idea. The change was so subtle that no one besides Elora would have even noticed it. "What?" "He's workin' on detectin' interdimensional activity identifyin' the source and location. He says 'tis a logical first step toward the defense system we're goin' to be needin'." "Yeah. I heard." "Well..." She knew she was in trouble when he turned on that look that he had given her the first night they had met, the puppy dog plea that was so irresistible she could be manipulated out of her socks with full knowledge and complicity. She hated that. It was... manipulation by consent. "Stop that right now!"
"'Twas just thinkin' that, for the time bein', just while we're sortin' this out, maybe we should move back into Jefferson Unit. You and Helm would be safe there. I know 'tis no' ideal, but there is the courtpark, food, and babysittin' on demand. 'Tis no' this." He looked around the room and gave a little sigh. He had put a lot of himself into renovating the property and somewhere along the way had come to understand why she loved it and pictured their little family living happily ever after there. "But we were happy at Jefferson too. We could even help Monq. Maybe speedin' thin's along a bit?" "I'm expecting puppies." "I truly hope no one is recordin' this conversation." Ram's mouth softened at the corners making him look so beautifully kissable that she had to lean in and remind herself if those kisses were as good as she remembered. He didn't seem to mind complying with her wish. When she pulled back, he said, "We could get Glen to keep an eye on that. The wolf pups I mean." "This is not just some ruse that's going to get us sucked back into active duty?" Ram cocked his head like he was having trouble with that question. "Why would I go to so much trouble to keep you safe only so I could risk gettin' you killed?" Elora stared at Ram for a few seconds. "I'm not the on-
ly knight in the room and we both know how persuasive Sol can be when he wants something. Before I even consider this proposal, I need some reassurance that none of us, not you, not me, not the baby - none of us - are going to end up on any field assignment. Not in any capacity." Ram nodded. "Deal." "Okay." "Okay you approve of my answer or okay we're packin' for Fort Dixon?" "Fort Dixon, but that's all of us. Blackie too. And we need an apartment big enough for the four of us." "Thank Paddy. I'm goin' to get a good night's sleep for a change." She hadn't realized just how much stress the fear of assassination had caused Ram until she saw his facial muscles relax. Yeah. It was a good plan. A good choice, everything considered. "And, let's outline what would have to happen to make it possible for us to come back here and proceed to live life the way it should be lived. By ourselves. Speaking of which, I'm also not giving up the pleasure of a weekend at the cottage - just us - forever." "Certainly. I'm no' unreasonable." She smiled at him lovingly and indulgently. "Of course not. You're my hero."
Moonlight: The Big Bad Wolf The Order of the Black Swan, Book 4 Victoria Danann Genre: paranormal romance, fantasy romance Publisher: 7th House Date of Publication: 05/26/2013 ISBN: 978-1-933320-69-4 ebook ISBN: 978-1-933320-64-9 paperback Number of pages: 390 Word Count: 90,000 What would you do for love? Coming on the full moon, May 25th. Book Description: Moonlight, The Big Bad Wolf, is the fourth installment in the serial saga, The Order of the Black Swan. READING IN ORDER STRONGLY RECOMMENDED. The story continues to touch on the lives of former B Team members and their families while new characters and
situations are introduced. THE NEWSLETTER: Ram and Elora move into temporary quarters at Jefferson Unit to protect mother and baby. Storm gives a surprising answer when he’s tapped by Sol to replace him as Jefferson Unit Sovereign. Litha solicits her father to help Black Swan. THE SURPRISE: B Team learns the shocking truth about the origin of the vampire virus. Monq races to develop a defense system to repel invasion by Stagsnare terrorists and assassins. THE ADVENTURE: Desperation drives Stalkson Grey to embark on an adventure beyond his wildest dreams in a bid to save the Elk Mountain werewolves from extinction. THE ROMANCE: In the process of migrating the Elk Mountain werewolves to a new home, Grey learns that true love can find you in the strangest places, even when you’re far, far from home. 17+ Steamy scenes. No menage. No BDSM. Amazon
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About the Author: If you're looking for something new and different in PNR, you've come to the right place. I write unapologetic romances with uniquely fresh perspectives on paranormal creatures, characters, and themes. Add a dash of scifi and a flourish of fantasy to enough humor to make you laugh out loud and enough steam to make you squirm in your chair. My heroines are independent femmes with flaws and minds of their own whether they are aliens, witches, demonologists, psychics, or past life therapists. My heroes are hot and hunky, but they also have brains, character, and good manners - usually - whether they be elves, demons, berserkers, werewolves, or vampires. My first book, My Familiar Stranger, was nominated for Best Paranormal Romance of 2012 by the Reviewers' Choice Awards. Each of my books has remained on the Amazon best seller list in category every day since release. All three also earned the Night Owl Reviews TOP PICK award. My work has been compared to J R Ward, Karen Marie Moning, Sherrilyn Kenyon, and Lara Adrian. For example: "I do see shades of Lara Adrian's Breed books and shades of J R Wards Black Dagger books, but this story is unique enough that it stands out all on its own and can stand up along side those other books and I think given time will elbow them out of the way with the rich story telling and deep emotional core that makes you want to know more." - Kerry, Musings of a Bookworm The Order of the Black Swan is a series that is also a serial saga. Each book is an episodic installment in an ongoing story. Join me for the adventure. WEBSITE: http://www.VictoriaDanann.com BLOG: http://VictoriaDanann.me FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/vdanann TWITTER: @vdanann
Romance in Montana By Danica Winters Whenever I am at a large event outside of my home state I’m always asked where I’m from. Perhaps it is the fact that I have never owned a purse that cost over a hundred dollars or a pair of heels that I’ve seen in a magazine. Or, it could be the fact that my dress clothes have mostly been purchased at ranch supply stores (I’m not kidding). I’m not saying I am unprofessional—no far from it. I always have a nice shine on my boots and my hair is filled with spiraling curls and silver clips (unless I’m at home, in which case you will find me in yoga pants and a sweatshirt even in July). When I tell my readers I’m from Montana I am usually met with a response like, “Are you serious? Montana Montana?” Those wonderful readers helped to remind me what a wonderful and picturesque state I have the honor of calling my home. It was this reminder which pushed me to write my latest book Montana Mustangs which takes place in a blink-an-you-miss-it town called Somers. Somers lies on the northern tip of Flathead Lake, one of the largest natural lakes west of the Mississippi. Having grown up in Montana I have had the chance to dip into this bone-chilling lake that rests in the bosom of the Mission mountains. The water of the lake reflects the snowcapped craggy mountain tops and as soon as you see it you are instantly reminded about how small we are in the grand puzzle of life. The truth is that most of my writing is inspired by not only the ethereal beauty of Flathead Lake, but all of the beauty that surrounds me in this wonderful state. Every morning when I leave my home I’m met with the nod and wave as I pass my neighbors on a dirt road that has been forgotten by GPS. This slow-paced lifestyle is solely focused on the love of nature and the bounty it has to offer. In addition to the necessary love of the outdoors I am filled with a need to write—a need to share with those who love the written word. In Montana Mustangs I have created a work in which I have tried to capture my love of Montana in addition to capturing the hearts of my many wonderful and loyal fans. If you love books that are outside of the normal Mary Jane romances and if you like the unexpected twists and turns of mystery than you will love the paranormal romance Montana Mustangs—the second book in the Nymph Series. The Nymph Series is a connected series that revolves around the lives of several nymphs as they are each faced with the curse of their kind—fall in love with a human man, and the man is fated to die a tragic death. The first book in the series, The Nymph’s Labyrinth (which was featured in USA Today) takes places in Crete and follows the lives of an American archeologist and a museum curator who is charged with keeping the history and secrets of her kind under wraps. I’m happy to say, readers and reviewers have loved the first book in this series. The third book Winter Swans is slated to be released Fall 2013. If you have questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. I love to talk to my readers. Where do you live? What is your favorite thing about your home state/country? I would love to hear!
Thank you for stopping by, Danica Winters The Paranormal Romance Writing Cowgirl About Montana Mustangs: A nymph: a woman with the ability to seduce at will, shift to protect, but cursed with the fate to have the man she falls in love with die a tragic death. As one of these ill-fated nymphs, Aura Montgarten has spent her lifetime drifting from one place to another hiding from love. Until she meets Dane. When a body washes up on the shore of a rural Montana lake, police officer Dane Burke is faced with the task of finding the killer—even if it means he will be forced to put his life and heart at risk by working with a drifter. As the truth of Aura’s Mustang-shifting nymph ways are revealed, Dane learns exactly the amount of danger he and Aura are in, but can’t force himself to leave a case unsolved when the truth is just outside his grasp. When the killer decides he needs to take another victim— Dane—Aura must choose between their forbidden love and her immortal life. Can there be life without love or is death her only choice? About Danica Winters: Danica Winters is a bestselling author who is known for writing award-winning books that grip readers with their ability to drive emotion through suspense and often a touch of magic. When she’s not working, she can be found in the wilds of Montana testing her patience while she tries to understand the allure of various crafts (quilting, pottery and painting are not her thing). She always believes the cup is neither half full nor half empty, but it better be filled with wine. Website | Blog | Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook | Other Books by Danica Winters: The Nymph's Labyrinth Love Under the Christmas Tree A Christmas Miracle The Vampire’s Hope Curse of the Wolf An Angel’s Justice Coming Soon from Danica Winters (2013): Montana Mustangs (May 6, 2013—Crimson Romance) Winter Swans (Crimson Romance)
Caged Heat Milly Taiden Black Meadows Pack – Book 2 Genre: Paranormal Erotic Romance Publisher: Etopia Press Book Description: After five years travelling through third world countries to teach impoverished children, Samira Suarez has returned home to Black Meadows. What Sam didn’t expect was to be instantly overwhelmed by the desire to be with the one man she’s wanted since she was a teen, Riel Karven. Riel has been patiently waiting for Sam’s return. For five long years he’s backed off and watched her come and go. This is it. His mate is back, and he’s taking a stand. Sam’s need for Ry grows to unimaginable proportions. It’s almost as if she were in heat. But she’s a human…isn’t she? There’s more at stake than Sam and Ry’s future relationship when she inherits her grandmother’s estate. One of her many relatives wants her out of the way. It’s going to take all of Ry’s determination and help from his friends to keep her alive. And it’s going to take delving into her past to find out why a human is going into mating heat. Sharp Change Milly Taiden Black Meadows Pack – Book 1 Genre: Paranormal Erotic Romance Publisher: Etopia Press Word Count: 39,232 Thoughts of Chase, the Alpha of the Black Meadows pack, made her heart torpedo in her chest and rockets go off in her stomach. The betterthan-a-sundae delicious-looking man with golden brown skin, enough muscles he could share them with his friends and still have left over, turned her to a puddle of goo. The man had so much sex appeal her girl parts were ready to lift a white flag in surrender just by looking at him, even thinking of him made her tongue wag. Looking at him was like viewing a shot of your favorite dessert and knowing you couldn’t get your hands on it.
A Review of Winged by L.M. Pruitt Review by Jocelyn Dex Original Post Here: http://jocelyndex.blogspot.com/2013/04/review-of-winged-by-lm-pruitt.html
Title: Winged Author: LM Pruitt Genre: Paranormal Romance ISBN: 1938601068 Publisher: Red Hot Publishing Length: 247 Pages
I fell from the Talmadge Bridge the week before I turned thirty. I was given a choice: Go to Heaven. Go back to my life in Savannah. Or spend eternity fighting evil under the direction of the archangels. I chose the demons--and the angels. I chose the Winged.
Review Wow. I really enjoyed Winged even though I was a little mad at the author for tricking me! I won't spoil it but I thought things were going one way and then they went the other. The heroine was very determined to succeed, spurred on to be the best, because of an "encounter" with a sexy archangel. She really takes a beating in the story but keeps getting back up and kicking ass. The hero is delicious and I loved his personality but I can't say more or I'll ruin it.
Winged has angels, demons, action, fun characters, romance and steamy sex. What's not to like? I highly recommend Winged and can't wait to read the second book, Uprising, when it's available.
SEAL OF SURRENDER by Traci Douglass Excerpt Irena dropped her gaze and took a sudden interest in her sighed, stepping closer to rest his hand on the wall beshoes. Funny. She’d been asking herself the same ques- side her head. “But what occurred in that office was not affirming anything except the fact Drake Benedict is a tion all night. “And Drake is not my boyfriend.” supreme ... douchebag.” “Oh, so he’s just your sex buddy then?” Her bottled-up stress erupted into a catharsis of giggles. “He is not my sex buddy!” Her sexual affairs were none To hear such an intimidating guy call her boss a of this man’s damn business anyway. Why should he douchebag had been the highlight of Irena’s disastrous care who she slept with? Still, she couldn’t seem to stop evening. His poleaxed expression only made Irena the excuses. “He was ... available.” laugh harder. Soon helpless tears streamed down her cheeks. “I—I’m sorry. I can’t stop thinking about the Cringe. Her overloud pronouncement echoed through look on Drake’s face when you came out of the closet. the vacant lobby. The words sounded crass, cheap. Priceless!” Things she’d never meant to imply. How could she tell a man she’d met only hours before about the terror of He studied her for several moments before cracking a the bombing raids? About the deep, gnawing loss she’d smile of his own. “You really do have shitty taste in experienced when the Burmese school had been struck men.” by mortar fire. About the unquenchable need to reaffirm life. Those were things he couldn’t possibly com- “Beware, mister.” She chucked him on the arm, her giggles subsiding. “For a minute downstairs, I thought you prehend. were pretty hot too.” The elevator arrived and they both hustled inside. Chago reached to push the button then returned to his cor- His gaze narrowed. “Hot?” “Don’t worry. The minute ner, his arms crossed and gaze averted. Irena shuffled has now passed.” “Maybe your taste is improving, queuncomfortably in her own space and tried to pretend his rida.” presence didn’t disturb the hell out of her. Chago moved closer and grasped her chin, raising her “Look, I’m not easy with my affections, okay?” Shit. gaze to his. His thumb traced over her lips and incited a There went her mouth again. She didn’t owe this man tingle that nosedived straight between her legs. any explanation for her behavior. So why couldn’t she stop talking? “When you’ve seen the things I have, you Irena’s pulse raced and her throat went arid. The scent of his aftershave, cassis and vanilla, surrounded her. He need some kind of life affirmation to keep going.” hovered, allowing her an opportunity to break free. “Hmmm. Is that what they’re calling it these days?” When she didn’t move, Chago closed the miniscule gap Irena glanced up to find him focused on the ceiling. She between them and his lips brushed softly over hers. returned to studying the carpet. “Look. I’m a man of war. I understand the need to affirm life.” Chago
Seal Of Surrender Seven Seals Series: Book 2 Traci Douglass Genre: Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy Publisher: Crimson Romance Number of pages: approx. 270 Word Count: 72,000 Book Description: Love, like War, will always find a way… War has shaped every aspect of Irena Soldan’s life—her childhood, her work, her DNA. Unaware she is the genetic host of the second Seal of the Apocalypse, Irena battles for those who cannot fight for themselves. As a top human-rights operative for The Omega Consortium, her company provides both the financial backing required to undertake her task and a charismatic, publicity-loving boss to promote her cause. Life proceeds on plan for Irena until a mysterious, sexy stranger arrives claiming to be her guardian and Irena’s path takes a sudden, inauspicious turn for both the erotic and the lethal. Chago has always been the quiet one amongst his warrior Scion brethren—the brooding, Spanish combat expert with a hidden soft side. A member of Divinity’s covert special forces, he’s protected humanity for more than a millennium. Still, his greatest joy comes not from the battlefield, but from tending the cattle herd on his remote Montana ranch. Irena’s new assignment takes her straight to the heart of a bloody civil conflict in Sub-Saharan Africa and Chago’s mission demands he follow. Expecting a seething cauldron of female whoop-ass, he instead discovers a harbinger of peace amidst a world of ever-increasing violence. The explosively tense situation is further magnified by the cunning Omega Consortium leader, his ambiguous personal agenda, and an ancient foe whose audacious rise to power threatens the world’s very existence. Despite the cataclysmic circumstances, an undeniable attraction ignites between Chago and Irena. Together, they must unravel the ancient puzzle of the Seals and discover her employer’s ulterior plans before they both become casualties of War. Soon, both are forced to choose between a past riddled with old torments or risk everything they treasure on a love capable of defeating evil incarnate.
Seal Of Destiny Seven Seals Series Book One Traci Douglass Genre: Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy Publisher: Crimson Romance Number of pages: 263 Word Count: 70,000 Book Description: Love conquers all… but can it stop the Apocalypse? Mira Herald is having the worst life ever. Not only is she plagued by horrific nightmares starring the Devil himself, she’s now the target of a power-hungry, rogue minion, freshly sprung from Hell and bent on her destruction. To complicate matters further, she’s acquired a stalker. One who insists he’s a divine warrior sent for her protection because she houses an ancient relic with the power to unleash Armageddon. Last time Mira checked, she wasn’t insane. Still, all this celestial mayhem is enough to drive a girl crazy. Kagan is a member of the Scion, an elite team of immortal warriors selected by Divinity to aid mankind and save the world. After a century alone, Kagan is summoned for a new mission. He’s eager to begin. Eager until he’s informed his mission consists of protecting a woman with no clue to the power she wields. Plus, his briefing fails to prepare him for his new target’s cosmic-sized attitude problem. As Divinity’s sworn servant, he’s required to fulfill his duty. His oath, however, does not require him to be enthusiastic about his new assignment or warm-and-fuzzy toward his new compatriot. He plans a wham-bam rescue and a quick return to solitude. The rogue minion attacks—with the backing of a mysterious organization—and all Hades erupts, putting a fast end to any whirlwind escapes. Accustomed to staunch independence, Mira’s survival now requires full cooperation and an unwavering belief in Kagan. The battle-hardened warrior is also forced to chose: between duty and desire. Amidst the turmoil, Kagan and Mira’s undeniable passion draws them closer to each other and down a path neither expected but both yearn for, more than they ever knew. Will love save the day? The world’s fate depends on the answer. Book Trailer for the series: http://youtu.be/vTn0_15T2iY
About the Author: Traci is the author of paranormal/urban fantasy and contemporary romances featuring a sly, urban edge, including her current Seven Seals series. Her stories feature sizzling alpha-male heroes full of dark humor, quick wits and major attitudes; smart, independent heroines who always give as good as they get; and scrumptiously evil villains who are—more often than not—bent on world destruction. She enjoys weaving ancient curses and mythology, modern science and old religion, and great dialogue together to build red-hot, sizzling chemistry between her main characters. Traci is an active member of Romance Writers of America (RWA), Indiana Romance Writers of America (IRWA) and Fantasy, Futuristic & Paranormal Writers (FF&P) and is pursing a Masters of Fine Arts degree in Writing Popular Fiction through Seton Hill University. Her stories have made the final rounds in several RWA chapter contests, including the 2012 Duel on the Delta, the 2012 Molly Awards, and the 2012 Catherine Awards. An earlier draft of Seal of Destiny won the paranormal category of the 2012 Marlene Awards sponsored by the Washington Romance Writers. Other current projects include upcoming books in the Seven Seals series and a new futuristic suspense series with hints of the paranormal and plenty of romance. She loves hearing from readers! Connect with Traci here: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Amazon / Pinterest
The Legend of Harper and the Reversing Worlds, The Reversing Worlds Trilogy One J.T. Brown Genre: Fantasy / Paranormal for middle grade – young adult Amazon BN Smashwords Book Description: Harper Grogen has no idea that she is the most powerful creature in Pasmaqon. She recognizes that she is different from other eleven year olds; maybe a little quirky, but magical was not in her selfdescription. Her inquisitive notion drove her to an old tattered book which held a mysterious stone. Struggling to open the clasp, releasing the stone as, it radiates a glow across her room. She kept the rock in her pocket for secrecy. Her possession of the stone sent her to a world, which had been hidden under the ocean's fire tornado of “'Reversing Falls.” She found herself fighting for her life in a land that is its own worst compelling character, not knowing who to trust, only the estranged friends that she meets along the way. Oliver, which holds his cover as a trustworthy gnome, and Minsty, a large gentle giant that protects her from the dark creatures, who roam and strip the lands with their ghostly evil presence. She discovers that her adventure holds the key of eternity. She learns her existence is a true mystery that sings along the pages of her ancestor’s mysterious book. Tide’s Ghost of the Reversing Worlds, The Reversing Worlds Trilogy Two Part I J.T. Brown
Genre: Fantasy / Paranormal for middle grade – young adult Amazon BN Smashwords Book Description: The words whisper along the pages of the old tattered book showing its deceitful powers, only to harm what is in its path to Harper’s treasures. Harper has learned the secrets of Pasmaqon and has grown into her powerful magical being which is her strongest power of all. She is prepared to fight the villains of Pasmaqon, yet she is not prepared to fight her past villains that chose to find the only leak to the powerful lands beyond. Harper is about to sacrifice her life in a battle of the unknown as, she protects who she thought she would never consider as equals. She realizes the battle is non-other without their help. Wizard of Tide’s power has grown stronger, uncovering the secrets of Pasmaqon. To use his new found freedom to destroy the worlds around them. Harper discovers an old friend that carries the secrets of the book and the world. She unfolds the meaning that she longed to find, only to discover the darkness pulls her into a whirlwind of her own worst fears. War of the Reversing Worlds, The Reversing Worlds Trilogy Two, Part II J.T. Brown Genre: Fantasy / Paranormal for middle grade – young adult Cover Artist: J.T. Brown’s Cover Magic Book Description: Harper needs to find her warrior within, and face not only Tide’s Ghost, the darkness, but Wizard Argon. Who has stripped the land of Pasmaqon of its beauty and its power, only to strengthen his own land of Thurrobia. Nothing has been left behind – only ghost spirits that had surrendered themselves to the powerful force of Wizard Argon. Pasmaqon is left powerless with only the spirits of the past. The mysteries bleed its phenomenon off from the pages of Mystical Book, as the terror and the ghost dance with the mysterious tune. That sends Harper into a whirl wind spin tossing her to learn the truth behind the cover of the storm. Is war the only answer? But…..How can you fight something that is already dead, how can you weaken the weak, and how can you save a land that has already in silence. Harper can now trust no one or anything, for she may never know who is watching from behind. Harper’s powers mean nothing to the unseen.
Tristan’s Lyceum Wolves Immortals of New Orleans, Book 3 Kym Grosso Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance ISBN-13: 978-1482692396 ISBN-10: 1482692392 Number of pages: Approx. 267 Word Count: 94,000 words Amazon An erotic paranormal romance… Charismatic and powerful Lyceum Wolves’ Alpha, Tristan Livingston, is out for revenge after a devastating attack on his pack. Not only did he survive a building collapse, he orchestrated the rebuild of his chic, state-of-the-art nightclub within a week. Determined to mete out justice, he rescues a beautiful witness who may be the key to helping him find the perpetrators. Dr. Kalli Williams, dedicated veterinarian, is hiding a secret that endangers not only her own life but the lives of wolves across the country. After being tortured by a savage vampire, she’s reluctantly agrees to help the sexy Alpha in his quest to identify suspects; ones who’d kill her on the spot if they knew she existed. As Kalli places herself in the hands of the dominant wolf, she soon finds she wants nothing more than to submit. Tristan, committed to ruling his pack as a lone wolf, is inexplicably drawn to the mysterious and enticing woman, who seems more than human, but not quite supernatural. As he discovers her secret, he teaches her the meaning of trust, helping her learn how to be true to her nature. After living a lifetime alone, will he succumb to the visceral need to claim her, acknowledging
the soul binding connection between an Alpha and his mate? And will he prevail against the menacing enemy who threatens to destroy Lyceum Wolves? Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/Xk_NQu6h5pY Excerpt Stunned by her beauty, he could barely breathe. Goddess, the woman was spectacular. The fiery red gown clung to her in all the right places, and he noticed a small smile grow on her angelic face, presumably pleased that she had castigated Alexandra. He needed to get to her, hold her. As he rushed across the room, Mira stopped him with a hand to his arm. She gestured toward an elusive client standing to her left. Logan laughed, seeing Kalli triumph over the demon spawn who ran the vampires. “Hey girl, I hate to point it out, but man you laid her out…and that growl. What was that?” “Dance with me, Logan,” Kalli declared, needing to move. “Your wish is my command.” They crossed the floor, and Logan swept her into his arms. As amazing as Logan looked, she yearned for Tristan. She could feel he was close. As the music grew louder in her ears, she swayed along to the classical beats, hyper-aware of his presence. Leaning her head on Logan’s shoulder, she finally spied Tristan near the buffet, surrounded by Mira and a short bald man. His eyes caught hers, and her heart started to race. She wasn’t sure whether it was his pensive expression or aggressive stance, but she could clearly sense he was agitated. Logan spun her, and she lost his eyes only momentarily, then caught them once again. His predatory gaze electrified the room, sending goose bumps over her skin. As he stalked toward them, her breathing hitched. Like a rab-
bit alert to the wolf, she froze save for the mindless dance steps she made while blindly following Logan. As Tristan came upon them, she forced herself to face him directly. Larger than life, Tristan was sophistication etched in dripping sexuality. His dominance was apparent to every man, woman and supernatural in the room; there’d be no denying him. Even Logan stopped dancing to respect his Alpha. Lowering his eyes in submission, he bowed slightly. “Thank you for the dance,” he whispered, releasing her. Before she had a chance to say a word, Tristan wrapped a hand around her waist, pulling her tightly to him so they pressed together. She could feel his barely restrained erection nudging her belly. Suppressing a moan, she felt herself grow wet. She clenched her thighs hoping to hide her arousal; every supernatural within fifty feet would know of her excitement. “Don’t,” Tristan ordered. “Don’t what?” she managed to ask. “Don’t try to hide it. Your delicious scent.” “But they’ll know I ...” Kalli’s words trailed off as she lost her train of thought. God, he felt incredible. “I want them to know. I want them all to know you’re mine.” “But I thought…I mean you came with her.” Her eyes darted to Mira. “Business only, nothing more. Still, I’m very sorry I didn’t bring you with me. Clearly I was an idiot to leave you alone with my beta. Every man in this room is looking at you, Kalli.” “No,” she denied, shaking her head. “Yes. And they should. Because you’re magnificent. Everything about you from that alluring dress I bought you to your sexy growl. My Goddess, do you know what you do to me? Feel it,” he whispered, grinding his groin against her.
“Tristan,” she breathed. She was on the verge of orgasm from just dancing with the man. She couldn’t imagine what would happen if they made love. “Did you enjoy dancing with Logan? “What? Logan?” “Yes, Logan. Did you enjoy having your sweet body pressed to his?” “Oh God, Tristan.” “It’s all right, Kalli. Did you find it arousing? Tell me the truth.” “Another test?” she sighed. “Truth?” “Okay yes, but he’s not…he’s not you. No one I’ve ever met in my life is like you,” she admitted. “Ah, see how easy it is to tell the truth, ma chérie? Perhaps you’d like to explore two men at once?” he teased with a sexy smile as if he’d thoroughly enjoy it. She blushed, not denying it. “Someday we’ll explore that little kink of yours, but tonight you are mine. In fact, I think you’ll be mine for quite a long time.” “Confident, huh, wolf?” “Would you ever expect anything less?” He spun her around, continuing to brush against her. Tightening the grip around her waist, he ran his palm up her arm to her neck, until he reached her face. Caressing her cheek, he ran his thumb across her lower lip. “I want you so much, Kalli. I’m so sorry for everything. I shouldn’t have sent you to Logan’s. I was angry, but damn, I need you.” She groaned and threw her head back, publicly baring her neck to him. Submission, truth, she’d give it to him all right. But what he needed to learn was that he was hers as well, and after tonight she had no intention of letting him go.
About the Author: Kym Grosso is the author of the erotic paranormal romance series, The Immortals of New Orleans. Both of her novels, Kade's Dark Embrace (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 1) and Luca's Magic Embrace (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 2), are currently available via Amazon, digitally and in print. Tristan's Lyceum Wolves is scheduled for release on April 1, 2013. In addition to romance, Kym has written and published several articles about autism, and is passionate about autism advocacy. She writes autism articles on PsychologyToday.com and AutismInRealLife.com. She also is a contributing essay author in the new book, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Raising Kids on the Spectrum. Kym lives with her husband, two children, dog, cat and guinea pig. Her hobbies include autism advocacy, reading, tennis, zumba, traveling and spending time with her husband and children. New Orleans, with its rich culture, history and unique cuisine, is one of her favorite places to visit. Also, she loves traveling just about anywhere that has a beach or snow covered mountains. On any given night, Kym can be found reading her Kindle, which is filled with hundreds of romances. Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ KymGrossoBooks Twitter: @KymGrosso Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/ author/show/5785692.Kym_Grosso My Autism Website: http:// www.AutismInRealLife.com
Verses of Athine The Daughter of Ares Chronicles Shannon McRoberts Genre: Fantasy Publisher: Obsidian Poet Press Date of Publication: April 2013 Cover Artist: Shannon McRoberts Book Trailers: http://www.youtube.com/ user/shannonmcroberts Book Description: Take what you know about mythology and throw it out the window.... Do you have any idea what Zeus, Odin, Pandora's Box, Atlantis, Machu Picchu, Hera, Nike, Dragons, Vlad, Clones, and Vampires have in common? Athine does! Athine is not your ordinary immortal born goddess. Learn of her mysterious origins, learn why Zeus hates her so much, find out where vampires come from, and learn what really happened to the dragons. The Daughter of Ares Chronicles follows Athine as she uncovers the secrets of her destiny while interacting with key figures from many mythologies. This printed version contains novellas one through four in one complete edition. Short Excerpt: “Athine, hold the sword in one hand and cast a spell with the other!” My mother, Raelin, was always barking orders. It was always practice and then practice some more. Didn’t she know
how bored I was? I had been practicing for eons to protect a land that was at peace. I could cast magic with my eyes closed and my fighting skills were second nature to me. Why did I need to practice so much if my skills were already honed? “Mother, this is useless. No one has attacked Olympus, Draosia, or Ximira for several centuries. Why must I keep practicing to be a protector of the lands with these poorly made weapons? They break when I use them. How can I possibly fight with this stick?” “Athine, you are a goddess of war born from three different bloodlines. You must to live up to your legacy. That is why you have to keep practicing. I do not know why the weapons keep breaking. Maybe if you focused more on using your Sh’cersay and less on your poor attitude the weapons would perform better.” Ah yes, my ever present poor attitude. Perhaps it was borne out of sheer boredom. I had no desire to be a warrior protector. That was supposed to be my mother’s job. Yet, she kept trying to make it mine. Something about a vision or prophecy; I never really paid attention. “Athine, stop day dreaming. Andraste and Sabrina will be here tomorrow for your A’samrad. Do you want to embarrass your grandmother by not completing the rite of passage? As a potential ruler of Ximira and maybe even Olympus you are expected to do well. Anything less would be an embarrassment to the bloodlines; all three of them.” “Embarrassment? Potential ruler? Has anyone asked me if I cared lately? I practice day in and day out just for the possibility that I may be ruler of a humdrum, peaceful country. Maybe if I did fail the A’samrad you all would let me be. I have no desire to be a ruler. I do not care that my entire family is of noble immortals that love to rule. I want to see other worlds. I want to live a life of adventure.” How much clearer could I get? I had no desire to rule any of these lands, yet they all hoped I would rule one day. Any of my other siblings, cousins, aunts, or uncles would love to play this role. I was meant for so much more, but alas no, becoming a “ruler” keeps being dumped on my lap. I secretly wished I could fail the A’samrad and become an embarrassment. That way I could go off on an adventure and discover what lay beyond the walls of our palace. I knew there were harsher worlds out there ready for me to conquer. I just had to get out of this world to find them. About the Author: My name is Shannon McRoberts. I am an independent artist, author, and poet. I have been self-publishing books of all kinds since 2005. My first book was a poetry book called Poetry for the Chronically Heart Broken and Depressed. That book has since been replaced with a more robust collection called Erosion of the Heart. I am currently working on bringing this book to paper format and expanded distribution through Smashwords. My first ever sci-fi book, The Secret of Genetic Corp X, has been compared to Blade Runner. I am also currently working on having this book brought back to a paper edition. My favorite series, The Daughter of Ares Chronicles, features Athine, an immortal born goddess that I created for the series. In this series, I take mythologies of all kinds and turn them on their ears!
Werewolves Be Damned Magic and Mayhem, Book One Stacey Kennedy Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance Publisher: Entangled Publishing Date of Publication: April 15, 2013 ISBN: 9781622661046 ASIN: B00CBFZVU6 Number of pages: 267 Amazon BN Kobo iTunes Book Description: Nexi Jones—part witch, part guardian, and wannabe kick-ass warrior—can’t throw a punch or conjure the simplest magic. But that doesn’t stop her from hunting the werewolves who slaughtered her human family. She’ll have her revenge, but only if Kyden, the elite guardian, would get the hell out of her way. Kyden can’t decide if Nexi wants to get herself killed or if she just has no clue what she’s doing. But her father made it clear: keep Nexi safe…or else. Of course, the more Nexi runs toward revenge, the more she needs Kyden’s aid, and as she grows into her power and confidence, so does his desire to protect her. The only problem? She’d rather he dropped dead. But when a vampire paints a bull’s-eye on Nexi’s back, she’s hard-pressed to deny Kyden and the help he’s offering. Even if it means getting her revenge will be a little bit harder. At least it will still be as sweet.
Tillie, had been murdered by a power-hungry vampire, Lazarus. All those years ago, her birth father, Drake, had protectively decided to block Nexi’s suNexi peered from behind the large oak tree and spot- pernatural abilities. He had planned for her to live and ted the small log cabin nestled in the thick forest. The die as a mortal. Now with her return to the Otherworld porch light cast a warm glow into the night. Fog set- and the removal of the block on her true identity, there tled over the lush grass, and the night was dark, eerie. was no going back. Excerpt I’ve found you, fur ball.
Stepping away from her hiding place behind the tree, she strode forward and gripped the dagger tightly in her hand. Keeping the silver blade pointed outward, she climbed the cabin’s porch steps, taking each one slowly to avoid detection.
She was no longer plain, human, Nexi Jones.
In some places around the world—or the Earthworld, as supernaturals had called it—there were permanent portals to the supernatural realm. This portal had only appeared because Nexi had travelled to this cabin from the Otherworld. Once she passed through the portal again, the gateway would vanish.
In a few short strides, the werewolf tossed her through the threshold of the cabin, and slammed the door behind them. He sauntered to the couch, sat down, and regarded her. “Now then, darlin’.” His olive skin was stunningly flawless, and his chocolate-colored hair was spiked tall. “Why would a pretty lass like yourself plan to attack me?”
She was Nexi Jones, part guardian, part witch.
Looking away from the portal and to her hiding spot until the werewolf returned, she hurried her steps. She Once she arrived at the front door, she wrapped her wasn’t ready to return to the Otherworld yet. Not until hand around the door handle. Rich hunger for revenge she had the werewolf’s head as her wall ornament burned in her veins and made her intent on one thing: would she dare go home. to slaughter the werewolf who escaped the night of her parents’ murder. Not caring what awaited her, she Just as she neared the tree, a woodsy scent that had stormed inside, dagger pointed, ready to kill. nothing to do with the forest mixed with the citrusy aroma of aftershave. A blink of an eye later, the dagThe simple cabin had two large brown couches near a ger she held was now at her throat, a hard body closed wood-burning stove, a kitchenette behind the living in on her back. room, and a quilt-covered bed resting in the back. And that was it; there were no other rooms to investigate. “You smelled lovely when you arrived.” The low No secret hiding places she could see. voice by her ear held a faint English accent. “But I never imagined you’d be so pretty.” No damned werewolf. The blade pressed into her skin, not drawing blood, She cursed, shut the front door behind her, then trotted but implying that if the werewolf chose, she’d be desdown the steps to return to her hiding spot. On her tined for the grave. “I’m…” way across the yard, she glanced at the space to the right of the tree, which looked much like a heat wave, “Going to explain yourself.” He lowered the dagger, indicating that the portal to the Otherworld remained. took hold of her arm, and jerked her forward.
Magic had its perks. Quick travel was one of them. Nexi shook her head at how normal all this magical stuff seemed now. Just over a month ago she’d never believed in anything that went bump in the night. Now she knew all those things existed, and in fact, she was one of them. To her horror, she had learned that her birth mother,
“Don’t move.” That charm wouldn’t fool her. “Stay right where you are.” “My mouth is the only thing moving.” His slanted amber eyes raked over her. “Would you like me to stop talking?” “No.” She hesitated then added, “Only your mouth
can move. Nothing else. Tell me what you know.” He gave her a long look. “I’d be glad to tell you anything you’d like, love.” His kind face and soft voice wouldn’t trick her. He was a werewolf. She was certain, which was another oddity. After the block on her supernatural abilities had been lifted, she could identify a supernatural creature as if knowing the difference between a brunette and a redhead. “Tell me why you killed my family.” “That’s an interesting accusation.” He cocked his head, studying her with a frown. “But I think the more important question is who are you?” She lifted her chin. “The lass who’s going to cut off your furry wolf balls.”
About the Author: Stacey Kennedy is an urban fantasy lover at heart, but she also enjoys losing herself in dark and sensual worlds. She lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, who gave her a happily-ever-after. Together, they have two small children who can always make her smile, and who will never be allowed to read Mommy’s books. If she’s not plugging away at a new story, you’ll find her camping, curling up with the latest flick, or obsessing over Sons of Anarchy and Game of Thrones. Website - http://www.staceykennedy.com/ Blog - http://www.staceykennedy.com/blog Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/ AuthorStaceyKennedy Facebook Fan Page - www.facebook.com/ StaceyKennedyFanPage Twitter - https://twitter.com/#!/ Stacey_Kennedy Goodreads - http://www.goodreads.com/ author/show/3473046.Stacey_Kennedy Amazon Author Page – http://www.amazon.com/Stacey-Kennedy/e/ B004G9KR9A/
Trust: Betrayed Trust Trilogy Book Two Cristiane Serruya Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance ISBN: 1482586479 ISBN13: 9781482586473 Number of pages: 551 pages Word Count: 137.903 Cover Artist: Renata Fontanive Book Description: Alistair and Sophia have found each other. Their hearts are opening to love again and they are set to have their 'happily ever after'. Or so it seems. BETRAYED, the second installment of the Trust series, journeys back into the past to reveal their secrets and dark deeds. Sophia, the ravishing owner of Leibowitz Oil, is determined to have a relationship with Alistair, but a dark and terrible secret lurks beneath the surface she presents to the world. Will she be able to find peace within herself? Alistair, a powerful banker, is in love with Sophia but has difficulties overcoming his guilt over his daughter's death and his BDSM proclivities. Certain that he doesn't deserve to be loved, he will do everything to push Sophia away, despite his love for her. Will he be able to find redemption? Ethan, a steel tycoon, no less haunted by his secrets and lies, is still in love with Sophia after their short lived relationship. He now lives in an alternate reality he has created, because the loss of Sophia is too unbearable to face. He will pay any price to have her. Will he have her back in his arms or will he overcome his loss and move on? Sophia, Ethan and Alistair will need to overcome their guilt, fear and pain and learn to see themselves through forgiving eyes. Or will they succumb to their misery?
Trust : A New Beginning Trust Trilogy Book One Cristiane Serruya Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance Number of pages: 464 Amazon Barnes and Noble Book Description: They are beautiful. They are rich. They are strong willed and successful. They have everything, but love. And each one of them has a dark secret looming in their past. Sophia is a 25 year old Brazilian widow. Intelligent and ravishing, she flees from her own country after a tragic incident. Hiding from everyone and everything, she remains alone, torn between the love for a dead man, the torment of living without part of her memory and the fear of moving on. Ethan is one of the most important tycoons in the steel industry. As the memory of an awful evening in his adolescence haunts him night and day, he keeps looking for an elusive woman whom he could love - and who would love him - as he never has in all his 35 years... Until he finds Sophia. Alistair is a 34 year old powerful banker, searching for one–night stands with women who will warm his bed. And that he can punish physically to abate his anger for his late wife's black deeds and his own guilt for being such a debauched man for so many years. Any woman will do, and he has many to choose from, as they all fall instantly for his manly, devilish charming ways. In Europe, in the months after October 2009, their paths will cross and clash. Who will win the prize of love? About the Author: I live in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with my husband and two daughters. I'm a lawyer, who specializes in cases sexual abuse and violence against children and women. I also have a Masters in Business Law and a BA in Fine Arts. I've always loved to read, write and listen to music. I lived and studied in England, France, Italy and Switzerland. Traveling is one of my passions - as is keeping fit and healthy. After twenty-two years of practicing law, I decided to give writing a go. And - amazingly - it was just the piece that was missing in my life.
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Sexual Aromatherapy – How to Use Scent as an Aphrodisiac By Roxanne Rhoads Scent is the silent language of sexuality. We are affected by the scents around us, by the scents of others and especially by the scent of our lover. By adorning yourself with certain scents or adding the right scents to your bedroom and home you can create a sensual and romantic atmosphere your lover is sure to respond to. Our sense of smell is tied directly to the part of the brain that is linked to memory and emotion. Research studies have proven that different scents can actually produce different emotions and reactions; they can make us feel a certain way. Odors have been shown to penetrate the human subconscious causing reactions such as changes in blood pressure, respiration and pulse rate. Once a smell is remembered it is rarely forgotten. A scent can stir basic emotions and feelings. Memories can be recalled instantly just from the whiff of a familiar scent. A smell like your mother’s perfume or your dad’s aftershave can transport you back in time to your childhood. Our sense of smell is over ten thousand times more sensitive than our sense of taste. A healthy young person can distinguish and recognize over thousands of different odors.
are known for their amorous properties and their scents have been used around the world. The “alchemy of scent” has charmed and lured both men and women, it has been used to attract lovers, heal a relationship; it has been used in the art of seduction and mentioned in the Kama Sutra. Cleopatra was known to have used a special blend of rose, cardamom, and cinnamon to seduce Marc Anthony. Basil was used by young Italian women to charm and bewitch potential lovers, ancient Arabic manuals giving advice on sexual matters refer to Black Pepper for its erotic qualities, Ginger was used by the Romans for its sexual enhancement properties, an Italian princess used Neroli to fragrance her gloves and bathing water, and Tantric disciples smeared Sandalwood on their bodies while celebrating sexual ecstasy.
Aromatherapy is a part of creating perfumes. The arcane science of perfume has also been used for thousands of years and is based on laws of “vibration” and “psycho-sensory” responses observed over long periods of time. A truly “magical” formula will work on both the conscious and subconscious mind to illicit a predetermined response. There are many scents and scent blends that will cause sexual responses. The modern perfume industry is still trying to create the Aromatherapy has been used for over 5000 years from perfect aphrodisiac by using blends of scent. Perfumes Ancient Egypt to Modern Europe in the 1920’s and are designed to attract, allure, and cause arousal. It is 1930’s where French chemist, Rene-Maurice Gatall erotic aromatherapy. tefosse coined the term aromatherapy. By using sexual aromatherapy and anointing yourself Aromatherapy has often been used in sexual practices with certain oils you can become irresistible to your and rituals throughout many cultures and time periods. lover. You can create a sensual ambience in your bedPerfumes and sweet smelling herbs have played imroom and throughout your home by using the aromatic portant roles in religion and sex magic. Many plants essences. Essential oils can be used to increase sensual
and sexual energies.
tions with love, seduction and fertility. Basil awakens the senses and can arouse the basic sexual instincts. It The essential oils and scents I am going to describe can be used to reawaken a sexual relationship, help have been chosen for their known aphrodisiacal proper- ease mental, emotional and physical fatigue and used in ties. These essential oils can be used in diffusers, burn- massage oils to remove weariness. Do not use during ers, candles, incense, scent rings, scented potpourri, pregnancy. perfumes and colognes, added to bath water or added to massage oils to create a sexually enticing atmosBergamot can enhance the mood of lovers. Its lemon phere in your bedroom and throughout your entire and floral aroma can lift a loved one’s spirit and it is home. These scents can be used alone or in special able to alleviate tension and anxiety. blends to create the type Black Pepper of sexual atcan add spice and mosphere and vitality to a love sexual relife. It has warmsponse you ing, penetrating want. and strengthening properties that Two of my can rekindle the personal faflames of pasvorite scents sion. It emits a are vanilla spicy aroma that and cinnaarouses the sensmon. Vanilla es and supplies is a very stamina and soothing strength. scent, is known for its Cardamom is a healing and very magnetic calming essence used for properties sexual attraction. and has been used in many “love” perfumes and potions throughout Cedarwood opens emotions and helps lovers enter a history. Cinnamon is universally known as an aphrospiritual dimension in their lovemaking. It can sooth disiac. In a study of male response to fragrances, the fears and anxieties and draws lovers into a blissful and most seductive of all the fragrances was a spicy cinna- sensual reality. Avoid using during pregnancy. mon roll. It caused more blood flow to the penis than any other scent. I guess that explains why my husband Clary Sage is deeply sensual with relaxing and calmalways seems to have an erection, I have cinnamon ing properties to decrease inhibitions. It boosts libido scented candles and potpourri everywhere, not to men- and dissolves fears and anxieties. tion cinnamon scented lotions and body sprays. All this time I thought it was me that made him so horny when Coriander is worn to attract a lover and it is also it was really the cinnamon. The erotic runners up in the known for being able to keep a love relationship har“scentuality” study were pumpkin pie, lavender and monious. doughnuts. Funny, I’ve never thought of pumpkin pie or doughnuts as sexy. Frankincense has a haunting aroma. It can bring depth and meaning to a relationship, heighten awareness and Other scents known for their aphrodisiac qualities enhance communication. It can stimulate the senses and comfort the mind. are: Basil has a sweet, spicy aroma. It has many associa-
Ginger is pungent and spicy. It will boost vitality and
heat up the libido. Use it to inflame passion and desire.
Sandalwood has a sweet and woody aroma. It has been used in ritualistic sexual practices celebrating the divinity of sexual ecstasy. It encourages emotional Geranium is a scent that adds a sustaining and restor- openness and enhances physical sensuality. It creates ing quality to a relationship. It can help open commu- spontaneous interaction and helps lovers get out of a nication in a relationship. sexual rut. Jasmine is heady and exotic. It is used to capture, sustain or rekindle the affections of a loved one. It promises deep and lasting affection. It brings strength and warmth to a sexual relationship. Avoid using during pregnancy.
Ylang Ylang is an erotic scent that acts as a powerful aphrodisiac. It increases libido and enhances attraction between lovers. It can sooth the over anxious while boosting low energy. It opens emotions and promotes a more sensual and erotic experience during lovemaking.
Juniper is a scent that cleanses negative feelings and has stimulating properties. Use it to get rid of insecu- These essential oils can be found in health food rities and form trust. stores, new age shops, in catalogs and online. A little Avoid during pregnancy. goes a long way. Only a few drops are needed when added to water or other oils. Experiment with scents Lavender is a scent that is soothing to the heart. It to create a custom blend that can greatly enhance relaxes and balances with its comforting aroma. Use your sexual appetite and experience. Using scent as it to heal and nurture a relationship and sooth the an aphrodisiac can be a greatly rewarding experience mind.-Avoid use during the first trimester of pregnan- for both you and your lover. Do not give up if it takes cy. awhile to find the perfect scent or combinations of scent. Once you do find the perfect blend of sexual Lime is a scent that adds cheer and laughter to roaromatherapy scents you will have a truly ‘scentual’ mance and increases the appetite for desire and pasexperience. sion. Lime fills the atmosphere with joy and lightness. It eases anxiety and clears the path for communication. Neroli Absolute is seductive. It evokes a sense of contentment and eases communication. It acts as an aphrodisiac. Orange is a scent that brings warmth and cheerfulness to a relationship. It encourages joy and sensitivity. Patchouli has a deep, musky and lingering aroma associated with earthy sensuality and spiritual elevation. It is very sexually provocative and decreases inhibition and encourages desire. (note patchouli has a very strong aroma and some people have an adverse reaction to it, like myself- one sniff of patchouli equals instant migraine for me) Rose Absolute is a scent with aphrodisiac and sexual healing properties. It is emotionally uplifting and opens the heart. Avoid use during pregnancy.
Isis Erotica The Complete Trilogy Sandra Gore Genre: historical time travel erotic romance Publisher: Tajine Publishing Print 978-0-985344566, Ebook: 978-0-984279999 ASIN: B007J88ATE Amazon Kindle
Amazon Print
Book Description This is a romantic erotic adventure story - edgy, intelligent, and sensual. Set in Las Vegas and Ancient Egypt, Isis Erotica is the steamy shorter version of the novel, The Red Mirror, and is packed with intrigue, action and torrid love scenes. If you want to go right to the juicy parts, use the links in the special Table of Contents to jump to those vignettes. The Hathor Power. They teach in the temple that there's an animal energy in us that conjures up base desire mingled with the potent allure of intense sensuality and deep mystery. The magical spell of the goddess Hathor transforms raw lust into the promise of pleasure and satisfaction known only by the gods. "I have secrets," her aura teased. "Wonderful secrets that only I can share."
" here is more to this collection than a love T story. Add in reincarnation and mysterious artifacts that cross time. The writing is high quality and full of imagery. I highly recommend Ms Gore's work."
Four hot men. They all want her. Who will have her? Does she have to choose? Who says a woman should have only one man? Who says there's a Mr. Right? One man and one life are not enough for Isis. She has the Power. I" was transported through time to a world of Egyptian gods and goddesses, temples and high priestesses, honeyed dates and cleansing oils. And a woman who will never be satisfied by just one man, although Isis does love them all with great intensity. She has great taste too - these men are to die for." The Isis Erotica collection is comprised of three connected adventures that can be downloaded as ebooks in three parts: The Red Mirror, The Persian General and The Great Green Part One: The Red Mirror. Who knew an old mirror in an antique store would promise pleasures more sensuous than any dream? Isis meets River God of bronzed flesh and snowy linen, the man with The Touch. She will do anything to feel that touch, even cross through time. Part Two: The Persian General. A wild desert hunt goes all wrong when Isis is kidnapped by the Persian General. A bull of a man with legs like the columns of a temple, he holds her life
in his thick fingers. But Isis has a destiny, and Isis has the Power - the Hathor Power. Part Three: The Great Green. Isis is the chosen one, chosen by her father Hermes Trismegistus to protect the Emerald Tablet. But Isis needs protection herself from the evil Crown Prince and the invading Persians. Cosmic forces bring together the circle of souls in two passion-filled nights - one below deck on River God's ship on the Nile and the other on the Las Vegas Strip. About the Author: Born with wanderlust, forever living in a fantasy world, Sandra Gore escaped the prairies of Kansas and followed the yellow brick road on a 25 year odyssey that took her to Europe, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East. Starting with a one-way ticket to Iceland, Sandra returned with a Viking husband, an art degree and speaking five languages. She and her husband have two adult children and divide their time between a California beach house and a Las Vegas condo. Sandra's work Red Mirror Series: The Red Mirror, The Emerald Tablet, The Black Scroll Isis Erotica Isis Beach Read Sex and the Zen of Shopping: How to Live Rich by Shopping Smart Life Choices Anthologies: Navigating Difficult Paths "A True Love Story" Pursuing Your Passion "The Muses Whisper" Never Too Late "Road to Vegas" Find Sandra online http://sandragore.com/ https://twitter.com/GoreNovels https://www.facebook.com/GoreNovels Sandra’s Magazine http://www.sandraoffthestrip.com/ Sandra Political Activist on Twitter https://twitter.com/LVview
One Global Tweet, One Earth by Carole Remy The smallest thing happened today, and yet it altered my life. The tiny thing was that a friend was signing books at a book fair. Without giving it much thought, I tweeted a message, "If you're in Abu Dhabi, visit my friend Seumas Gallacher's book signing at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair." It didn't hit me until a couple of hours later, when Seumas and I were chatting about the book fair on Twitter. We might has well have been chatting over coffee at a local cafe. Our conversation felt that casual and comfortable. We signed off with hugs and sleep well's that felt like the real thing. Earlier in the afternoon I'd been chatting with my friend Molly Wishlade. We joked about eating peanuts for dinner, peanut butter for me and peanut satay chicken for her. She was savoring a piece of cheesecake that I wanted a bite of. Thing is, Molly lives in Wales, and I live in Mexico. We were chatting on Twitter. What struck me, and I know it isn't news, but my heart's community, the people I interact with on a real, daily, and personal level, is now global. I'm used to the idea of a long-distance family. My children live thousands of miles away, and we talk on the phone and Skype several times a week. Same with my sisters and some cousins. About a year ago I started following Melody Fletcher's blog, Deliberate Receiving, where I learned about the Law of Attraction. We email and Skype often, and she's become a third daughter. Melody lives in Barcelona. Close connection with family at a distance isn't a rarity for me. It's not that I'm isolated. I live on an ordinary family street in Mexico, and have conversations daily in Spanish with neighbors ranging from young children to great-grandparents. Friends invite me to dinner and we go to the movies. Volunteering in animal rescue is a social as well as a spiritual activity. I love salsa dancing! In person community isn't lacking from my life. Today felt like something different. What struck me today is that my life has been enriched a thousandfold by my global friendships. I'm deliberately avoiding the adjective 'virtual,' because the friendships aren't virtual, they're real. Nathalie Thompson in Ottawa is as real, alive, and vibrant a friend as my amiga Sara here in Colima. Melody in Spain, Seumas in Abu Dhabi, Molly in Wales, Lori Gosselin in New Brunswick, and many other lovely people ALL OVER THE WORLD are now an integral part of my life.
Readers come to my blog from across the globe as well, and though I don't know all your names, I feel your presence. Welcome to, at last count, 13,500 readers from China, Saudi Arabia, the United States, Germany, India, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Russia, Singapore, Romania, Brazil, Greece, Italy, the United Arab Emirates, Austria, Japan, Canada, Maldives, France, Norway, and many other countries! Shamans say that global energy is rising. That our vibration as humanity is lifting us into a new level of consciousness. Today, I felt it. With one little tweet, I realized that my heart has expanded and a whole new OneEarth has flooded in! I wish for every one of you the same joy that I feel. I wish for you more hugs than you could have imagined for a lifetime. I wish for you sunshine and rain and green and volcanoes puffing in the background. Thank you every single person on the planet, thank you every animal and plant, thank you every rock and every molecule of water, thank you for existing! And thank you, dear and lovely readers, for sharing the journey! Who Is Candid? Carole Remy Genre: erotic romance ASIN: B00BG0WYNO Number of pages: 226 estimated, 404 KB Word Count: 70,000 Cover Artist: Catalin Petolea through Shutterstock, model release signed Cover Designer: Marissa Lepe Preciado Amazon
Teaser Description: Lucy, aka Candid, is a naughty girl who takes a sexy fun road trip across America, and tells everybody all about it! Book Description: In the spring of 1998, recent graduate Lucy Ralph decides to rebel. The NSA is blocking her job applications, her best friend Dick is a frustrating hunk of gorgeous, and her mother is driving her crazy. Worst of all, she’s still a virgin! Lucy takes off on a road trip across America, and reinvents herself as 'Candid,' a naughty girl who has sexy fun with just about everybody she meets, and tells the world all about it! Her explicit 'Candid' Internet posts go viral overnight. The National Security Agency, the entertainment media, the paparazzi, and soon the entire nation are on her tail! While she spins a modern day sexual Arabian Nights, she's also being tracked by the sweet, sexy, and elusive Dick, who has his own tricks to play. Will love ever be more than a virtual reality for Lucy? Can she and Dick get past the friends page? Will exposure ruin everything, if the nation finds out Who Is Candid?
Author Interview Hi Roxanne and Bewitching Book Tours Magazine! Thank you so much for interviewing me today. I look forward to your questions. Okay, let’s start at the beginning. What inspired you to become a writer? I wasn’t particularly a childhood scribbler, though some friends and I published a neighborhood newspaper when I was about ten. I got into technical writing as part of my career as an education administrator. Then when I turned forty, the bug hit. First a slew of poems, one writer friend said it was like the poems had been lined out in a queue at Chicago O’Hare and just flew out, one after another! From poems to erotic novels came via serendipity: the movie Pretty Woman, the binge writing process of novelist Georgette Heyer, and Anne Rice’s erotica as A. N. Roquelaure. I wrote about how it all came together in a blog post, http://caroleremy.blogspot.mx/2013/01/getting-started.html Tell me more about how A. N. Roquelaure inspired you. Would you consider her a mentor? Yes and no. Anne Rice was already hugely popular for her vampire novels, and I thought it was brave of her to publish something so entirely different. Her bravery inspired me to write erotica, which fascinated and also scared me. The harshness and emotional distance of the sex in her books isn’t my style, so in that aspect she didn’t inspire me. But for sheer bravery, yes. If not for her, it probably wouldn’t have occurred to me that I could write and publish erotica. Let’s move on. Can you share a little of your current work with us? My novel Who Is Candid? is one of my Sexy Fun Erotic Romance novels. It’s definitely erotica, hot and steamy! At the same time, it’s laugh out loud funny in places. If you like a little mayhem with your sex, and think laughing is erotic, you’ll enjoy Who Is Candid?, and Twelve Nights and Beauty of the Beast as well. In Who Is Candid?, the heroine Lucy takes off on a road trip across America, a real trip I took, by the way. She’s young, bored, and frustrated, so she does what any adventurous girl would do—she starts posting hot sexy adventures on the Internet! Her stories get more and more outrageous, and she pines more and more for her best friend Dick, left at home patiently waiting. Maybe... Okay! You’ve convinced me! I’m reading Who Is Candid? today! So I’m guessing you have a specific writing style. Can you describe it for us? Mostly, I try to write what I enjoy reading. I like characters with a bit of snark, and a healthy sense of humor. I like fast paced books, which generally means short sentences and quick scene changes. I love reading dialogue, so I put a lot of it into my novels. In fact, Who Is Candid? is told entirely through Internet posts, phone conversations, radio interviews, and emails. Readers have told me they couldn’t put it down—just one more page, just one more page! How did you come up with the title for Who Is Candid? *Laughing* The novel started out as a tax deduction! My daughter and I were taking a travel trailer trip across the US, and I thought I could count some of the expenses if I did research for a novel. Then I needed a story crazy enough to link together all the locations.
Road trip novel! The style is formally called ‘picaresque,’ and the main classical example is Voltaire’s Candide. Hence the pseudonym Candid that Lucy uses for her posts. The book doesn’t follow the plot of Candide, but Voltaire definitely inspired the title and some of the humor. Voltaire. There’s a name I haven’t heard since school. Are you influenced by any other classical writers? *Laughing again* One of the pitfalls of being an English major. Yes, I’ll admit to a love affair with Shakespeare. I think if he were alive now, he’d be a bestseller in erotic romance! His comedies are epic for bawdiness, with tons of sex jokes that would have had his audiences roaring. My novel Twelve Nights is my erotic take on a modern Twelfth Night. Beautiful twins, horny men, interfering parents, LOTS of sex, what’s not to love? Sounds like fun. Okay, Twelve Nights goes on the reading list right after Who Is Candid? Let’s broaden the questions a bit. What advice would you give other writers? First I’d say that advice isn’t very useful! I tried writing every day, as advised. Didn’t work. I’m a binge writer. One of the first and most important things a writer has to do is to figure out what work style suits them. Finding an admired model is a great start. For me, when I learned that Georgette Heyer and William Faulkner were both binge writers, I felt validated to work in a way that felt right for me. If you’ve read my blog, you know that I write a lot about the Law of Attraction. I guess the other thing I’d say to writers is to trust the manuscript. It’s a little like finding adoptive homes for dogs (another passion). You do everything you can to make them healthy and appealing, novels or puppies, and then you just have to trust them to find their own good homes. For books, that means trusting the manuscript to find the right publisher (if you choose the royalty route), and then trusting the book to find the right readers! Okay, let’s end with a personal question. What would readers be surprised to learn about you? Hmmm... I played Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz when I was ten. That’s my standard submission for personality trivia. Some readers might be surprised to learn that I live in Mexico. I’m a huge fan of Mexico! It’s beautiful, the people are awesome, the food is delicious and healthy and inexpensive, health insurance is excellent and free, and contrary to the news it’s safe (at least in Colima where I live). How about sex? Any admissions? Sometimes readers comment that no one could possibly have as many orgasms as my characters do. Well, yeah, they can. Okay... Food for thought. Whew! Thank you Carole Remy for stopping by for and giving us an enlightening interview! Thank you again for hosting me here in your magazine, Roxanne. I love reading it every month, and am thrilled to be included in such good company!
Carole Remy writes erotica. Five of her novels are available on Amazon Kindle. Here are her links. http://tinyurl.com/AmazonCaroleRemy (links to all five novels) http://tinyurl.com/CRbooktrailers (YouTube) http://tinyurl.com/CRblogtrailers (YouTube) @carole_remy http://tinyurl.com/caroleremyblog http://tinyurl.com/caroleremyfacebook http://tinyurl.com/caroleremypinterest
About the Author: Carole Remy lives in Mexico with her beloved dog Gemma. When she isn’t writing and touring her novels, you can find her rescuing dogs, learning wood sculpture, and salsa dancing! blog: http://caroleremy.blogspot.mx/ Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/caroleremybooks/twelvenights/ (Twelve Nights board contains 15 captioned photos of cations from the novel) Twitter: @Carole_Remy promoting these hashtags: #CaroleRemy #TwelveNights #SexyFun #Candid Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Carole-RemyAuthor/178074918983535
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Bewitching Book Tours Magazine is accepting submissions for : Hot and Steamy Summer - July featuring hot summer reads (focus on erotica and erotic romance) August- theme witches, witchcraft and magic Submission details- for every issue we accept: Articles- topics include writing, research, paranormal, vampires, advice for authors, publishing advice, and more Flash Fiction- paranormal, urban fantasy and erotica (for other genres please query) True tales of paranormal encounters Recipes Poetry Book reviews Art Jewelry designs and creations Please send submissions to RoxanneRhoads@bewitchingbooktours.com place “Bewitching Magazine Submission” in subject line Contributors receive free ¼ or ½ page advertising in Bewitching Book Tours Magazine and two months of free sidebar ad space at Fang-tastic Books