I have lost everything. My purpose My love My soul Death knocks on my door, I want to answer, but every time I reach for the handle -- the promise I made her brings me back. So I breathe. I live. I hate. And I allow the anger to oil beneath the surface of a perfectly indifferent facade. I am broken, I don't want to be fixed. But the Empire is crumbling and it's my job to fix it. My job to mend the pieces that were scattered over thirty years ago. A trip to New York, only one chance to redeem a lost part of our mafia family. The only issue is, the only way to fix it, is to do something I swore I'd never do again. An arranged marriage. Only this time. I won't fall. Or so help me God, I will kill her myself. My name is Sergio Abandonoto, you think you know my pain, my suffering, my anger, my hate? You have no idea. I am the mafia. I am the darkness. Blood in. No out.
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by
Sherry Alexander
Thirteen-year-old Jake Thrasher’s mother is dead, and the only clues left by the beast that killed her are a few strands of red hair and a set of plate-sized tracks. When his Army Scout father refuses to hunt the animal down, Jake takes matters into his own hands and heads into a hostile desert. Wolves, snakes, grizzlies, renegade Apache, and the ever-present threat of death are waiting for him. Will Jake find his Red Ghost? Or, will he succumb to the inherent dangers?
Jake started out into the darkness to follow her trail. He had an uneasy feeling that something was there—something barely beyond his sight—watching him and waiting for the right moment to strike. He knew lions stalked their quarry long before they attacked, knew they did it silently, and knew they killed by pouncing on an animal’s back, and biting its neck. He had seen it, had sat on a ridge with Pa, followed it winding through the rocks with his eyes, and heard the crunch of bones when it brought down a bull elk.
That was the first time Jake felt fear—honest to the bone, hands shaking, heart pounding, hair standing up on the back of the neck, fear. It was the same feeling he was having now.
Suddenly a series of deep, sharp snorts and squeals cut through the darkened space of air. There was no time to think. Jake sucked in a quick breath, gripped his rifle with both hands, and ran.
Jake saw the lion first, and it was huge—close to seven feet long with a thick tail about a third of the length of its body. It was crouched, butt up, and head down on a boulder above Storm, and ready to pounce.
Jake raised the rifle to his shoulder, and fingered the trigger. The lion studied him, and snarled. The yellowness of its eyes, the low guttering sound, was frightening, but somehow it was also beautiful—dangerously beautiful and for a second, Jake’s muscles tensed, and he froze. He looked at Storm.
The mare was wide-eyed wild, and in constant motion, bucking and kicking. She tried to rear, raised herself several feet, but the hobbles had slipped over her hooves, and she came down hard, and almost fell.
She wobbled and shook, and tried to steady herself.
Jake swallowed hard. He aimed at the lion and fired—Crack! The cat vaulted off the rock, and landed spread eagle on Storm’s back. Thick claws dug into the mare’s shoulders, and tore her flesh. She screamed and reared. His shot had missed.
He raised the rifle again, and pushed the butt into his shoulder. He aimed at the lion’s head, and fired. Almost at the same instant, Storm’s hind legs gave out, and she started to tumble backwards. Crack! The shot bounced off the rocks, and thundered down the dry wash.
The lion let out a low growl, raised its yellow eyes, and hissed at Jake.
He cocked the gun again and fired. Crack! He saw the lion’s body jerk. Storm was on her back now, and he couldn’t tell if the cat was wounded or dead. Rifle ready, he took a breath, and held it while Storm struggled to her feet. The lion dropped to the ground. Jake moved in closer. The tawny blood-stained lump of fur was motionless in the dirt. He thought it was dead, but he wasn’t taking any chances. He raised the rifle to his shoulder, took aim at the animal’s head, and fired—Crack!
Behind him, the mare started stumbling, and Jake whirled on his heels as she fell to her side.
Three years ago, I came across a historic picture of a camel tied to a hitching post in front of an old Southwest Army Fort. I like to believe that I am an American history buff, but I had never heard of camels in the 1800s. I had to know more, so I started researching the where, when, and whys of the photo. That research led to my non-fiction book, The Great Camel Experiment of the Old West, and it led me to a legend.
After the Civil War, the military sold the camels, but a few were released into the deserts of New Mexico and Arizona. One of those camels was spotted off and on for decades. It harassed miners, cowboys, and lone riders. Then in 1883, it killed a woman drawing water from a creek. That incident led me to ask, “What if?”
What if no one knew what animal was responsible for the woman’s death? What if she had a son and he wanted revenge? And, what if the boy’s Army Scout father refused to hunt down the animal because Geronimo’s warriors were attacking ranches? The answers to these questions became Search for the Red Ghost, a tween action/adventure novel set in the desert of 1883 Arizona.
Admittedly obsessed with American and Native American history, Sherry Alexander comes by it honestly. Her ancestors were pioneers who traveled west in hopes of making a new life, and she was fascinated by the stories of their lives on the frontier.
“As a kid, I wanted to be a pioneer, so reading books was the last thing on my mind. Instead, I lead my siblings and cousins on great adventures into the forests of Scappoose, Oregon, hunted and fished with my brother, and dreamed of forging new trails to an unknown land.”
Sherry is also not one to take a dare lightly. She started writing on a dare, and her first book, published in 1987, was the result of that dare. Recently retired, Sherry now spends her days writing children’s articles and books, homeschooling her 11 year old granddaughter—a job she says is the best part about being a grandmother, sharing her new found love of books with her family and friends, and enjoying life with her husband on their ten forested acres in Southwest Washington.
Title: The Other Side Of Someday
Author: T.K. Leigh
Genre: Romantic Comedy / Chick Lit
Cover Design: Tracy Kellam / Cat Head Biscuit, Inc.
Release Date: June 6, 2016
Blurb
You know how you always say someday I will?
Well, I’ve hit my someday.
Someday begins today.
Baylee Morgan is at a crossroads of her life. Leaving her marriage of ten years and the only life she’s ever known, she starts over in a penthouse ocean-front condo in Santa Monica, California. She soon finds herself immersed, albeit reluctantly, in the daunting and perilous world of dating as an almost thirty-something in Los Angeles, unsure of how to act, what to do, or whether that hot guy she meets in yoga class is straight. Sebby Powers’ dream has always been to work in the film industry. At the age of thirty-five, he’s one of the youngest up-and-coming producers in Hollywood. His life is perfect. Perfect apartment. Perfect girlfriend. Perfect dog. Until a friendship with a beautiful woman with vibrant red hair and a similar taste in cheesy movies throws his perfect life into a tailspin. The Other Side Of Someday is a fun, sexy story of looking for Mr. Right in a world full of Mr. Wrongs, when Mr. Right could be just next door.
Pre-order Links
Excerpt
“Sebby?” I called out, hesitantly walking through the entryway and into the open living space. “Holy shit!” I exclaimed when my eyes settled on him standing in front of his refrigerator. But that wasn’t what caught me completely off-guard. It was the fact that he was standing there, holding a towel in his hand, exposing himself in all his glory. I quickly spun around, my entire face turning a shade of red that would put my hair color to shame. “Fuck!” he shouted. “Do you take the world’s quickest shower or something?!” “Balls,” I muttered, keeping my eyes glued to a large print of a vintage DC-10 that was hanging on the entryway wall. “What?” he countered, his voice turning light and amused. I could almost picture that sexy and adorable smile drawn on those kissable lips of his. “There were balls. And stuff.” He laughed harder than I had heard him laugh in the few weeks I had known him, the rumble echoing in the open space. “I’ll never be able to look at you again without seeing your balls, Sebby. Just thought you should know that.” I drew a long breath, trying to settle my nerves. Seeing his mouth-watering body completely bare didn’t help matters any. “Here’s what I’m going to do. I’m going to go back to my apartment. I’m going to have a shot of whiskey. Or tequila. Or gin. Or whatever will make my blood pressure drop. And then I’m going to come back and we’ll try this again, okay?” “I promise I’ll be dressed when you come back.” “Why were you bare ass naked in your kitchen anyway? Did you want me to walk in on you like that? Trying to show off?” “Do you think I have something to show off?” “I… Well…” I shook it off. “I’m not answering that.” “Okay then.” “Okay.” “Baylee…?” “Yes?” I turned around as one often does when their name is called. “Jesus!” His expression grew wide and he hastily attempted to hide himself. “For fuck’s sake!” I spun back and faced the door once more. “Did you not think to cover yourself up after the first time I walked in and saw you naked? I’m still standing here. You know that bath towels serve some rather astonishing purposes these days, the most useful of which being something to wrap around your waist to keep your junk covered! I’m leaving and taking two shots of whiskey. Be back in five minutes.”
Author Bio
T.K. Leigh, otherwise known as Tracy Leigh Kellam, is a USA Today Best Selling author of the Beautiful Mess series, in addition to several other works. Originally from New England, she now resides in sunny Southern California with her husband, dog, three cats, all of which she has rescued (including the husband). In late 2015, she gave birth to her first (and only) baby. When she’s not planted in front of her computer, writing away, she can be found training for her next marathon (of which she has run over fifteen fulls and far too many halfs to recall) or keeping her daughter entertained. T.K. Leigh is represented by Jane Dystel of Dystel & Goderich Literary Management. All publishing inquiries, including audio, foreign, and film rights, should be directed to her.
Author Links
These books are part of the erotic romance genre.
Contemporary, Erotic, Shifter, werewolf, MF, Romance
Samantha Dixon rescues a wounded wolf shifter in the woods near her home … and unwittingly gets drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a murderer. Callum Blake is on the trail of an evil man who would be king of all wolf kind, no matter the cost … it’s up to Callum to stop him. Can Callum fulfill his duty to protect his pack and save the woman who is destined to be his mate? Filled with passion, action, and suspense, Wolf’s Blade is Book 1 of Clare Dargin’s new paranormal romance series, The Paladins.
Why are you silent? You’re the reason I took this mission and now you’re allowing me to suffer?
His frustration mingled with his physical pain, adding to his misery. The beast fought its way to the surface. He opened his mouth and howled. A mixture of a roar and a yell, it relieved some of the tension within him, but it did not drive away the urge to shift.
Leaning against the tree, he dug his claws into the bark, burrowing deep grooves as he exerted his strength against the muscle contraction. His pulse pounded in his ears as sweat poured down on his face. Unlike his wolf self who resided peacefully inside of him, his lycan did not have the same kind of placating nature. It yielded only to the strongest of commands exerted to it from his mind. It was supposed to live in harmony just as his inner wolf, but it refused.
✯✯✯✯✯ New twist on a shifter story
By Layne on January 13, 2016
Author Clare Dargin has given us a unique take on the concept of wolf shifters vs lycans in her book “Wolf’s Blade.” Rather than them being one and the same, they are actually two different species. Although both are dangerous in their own right, the rare individuals who are a combination are especially a danger.
So when the hero, Callum Blake, who is one of those rarities, finds a potential mate, he is torn by conflicting desires. He must protect her not only from a treacherous ex-packmate, he must protect her from himself.
I really enjoyed this story, the first in a new series, and look forward to upcoming releases.
Contemporary, Erotic, Menage, MFM, Romance with a paranormal element
Jilly Reimers wants love but can't find it. Chris Spinell is a veteran of the war in Afghanistan who suffers from PTSD and a haunting feeling that something is missing in his life. Chris Poole is also an Afghanistan war veteran is ready to break out of his shell but is unsure how. With Christmas just around the corner, they decide not to spend it alone. Believing The Love Play Matchmaking Service to be just what they need for a night of fun and passion, they sign up. But when the guys show up and see that they've been set up on a menage, the only one happy about it is Jilly. Their consultant, called an Eros, assures Jilly that the service has a perfect track record but she's certain they'll be the first ones to get their money back. Will they have a very merry Christmas? Or will the three spend yet another one alone?
Jilly idly twirled a lock of her hair as she gazed at the fire. The meal was good, a bit awkward, but all right. Now with Chris S. in the shower, she and Chris P., who’d freshened up after her, sat beside her. She hoped she’d get a chance to know him a little better, now that they were alone.
Unlike Chris S., Chris P. was quiet, more reserved. His warm smile could melt ice. They’d spoken a bit about his life in Australia and how he met the other Chris when they were on Diego Garcia, a tiny atoll in the Pacific. It was there he garnered a better perspective on life, friendships and love. She reasoned that war tended to do that to a person.
She looked at him again, admiring what she saw. He was gorgeous. If only she were a femme fatale like her friends. She pictured grabbing him by the scruff of his collar and planting a long seductive kiss on his pouty lips.
Golden and sun-kissed like a surfer, he had a look impossible to have around this time of year in Michigan, unless he spent countless hours in a tanning booth. But at the same time he didn’t look like the type who’d go to one. He seemed too rugged. She glanced at his short, flaxen hair, which he wore pulled back in a stubby tail. It accentuated his keen facial features. His physique, like that of a gladiator, made her want to whimper. Built like a brick wall without being too thick, he was three words—supple, etched, steel. And his Australian accent added to his raw sexiness....
Wow, this was a quick good read. Now if you are into erotic menage settings...then this is a read for you. Now, this is a adult read so be aware of that. This author really works it with these 'three lonely individuals' especially during the holiday season who were seeking happiness. What will happen when Jilly Reimers who is looking for love meets Chris Spinell and Chris Poole who just happened to know each other being that they were both war veterans of the war in Afghanistan? Will "The Love Play Matchmaking Service that has been set up my a sister and friend be able to help these two men find the love they longed for? What will happen when the three find out they have been set up in a menage by this service? Be aware that there is plenty of hot steamy sex scenes. In the end will Jilly, Chris S and Chris P get the Merry Christmas they wanted? To get the answers to these questions and so much more you will have to pick up 'Merry "Chris" Mas' to see how well this author presents this very intriguing 'menage' story to whether these three get their wish. There seems like there will be more in this 'Love Play Matchmaking Service series.'
Clare Dargin is a multi-published romance author. She has written for several publishers in different genres, including erotic romance, military romance, contemporary, paranormal, and sci-fi. She lives in the mid-west, and when not surfing the web, she is hard at work writing her next romance novel. You can find her on Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, and Amazon.
Book 1 of the Cinderella Romances series
by
PETIE McCARTY
Official Genre: Contemporary Romance
Cinderella's fairy tale moves to Jupiter Island, Florida where Lily Foster, owner of an eclectic landscape nursery, is mistaken for a wealthy socialite by billionaire resort developer Rhett Buchanan. Overdue for a little romance in her life, Lily is anxious for one fabulous date with her handsome prince, so she cultivates her inadvertent masquerade.
Rhett Buchanan has become jaded with the Palm Beach social scene, dominated by scheming women desperate for more money -- his money. Rhett falls hard when he meets Lily Foster. She is a breath of fresh air after the smog of gold diggers constantly surrounding him.
For Rhett and Lily, it's love at first sight until her deception comes to light and pitches their relationship into a disastrous tailspin. Well-meaning friends are determined to intercede and resort to inept high jinks to reunite the estranged couple while a wicked ex-girlfriend plays dirty to keep the couple apart.
The elevator doors opened on the third floor, and Rhett quickly stepped into the reception area. A high-pitched yelp sounded, and everything slammed into slow motion.
A flash of movement to his immediate right.
A very tall figure.
No, a small figure—a woman?—on a stepladder.
The ladder wobbled and threatened to spill its rider onto the marble floor.
A very hard marble floor with skull-cracking capabilities.
At the first squeak of distress, Rhett’s body reacted. His long legs reached the ladder in two strides, and he stretched out his long arms to capture the teetering body out of mid-air. The added weight thrust him forward, and he rotated the body against his jacket front in case he lost his balance, too.
The stepladder whacked the marble tile at his feet, and the sound echoed loudly through the reception area.
Mission accomplished.
His mind reverted from emergency-default mode to coherent-thought processes, and he realized the body he had grabbed—and crushed to his chest to preserve his own balance—was indeed a very feminine body. His surroundings had blurred when he reacted to the accident in progress, and now bits and pieces began to clear.
A giant palm stood three feet away, and Garrett Tucker stood ten feet beyond the palm, frozen in place with his eyes wide and his mouth agape.
Palms . . .
Garrett with a cart of plants alongside . . .
A body on a ladder?
Who exactly had he plucked from thin air?
Who would be with Garrett and his cart of plants and standing on a ladder with the palm?
And why did he feel this strange tug and pull near his heart?
No, not strange. Familiar. As in, he’d felt it before. But when?
His mind fought him when he sought the logical answer. Maybe because he didn’t want to let the woman go. Adrenaline still pumped through him and forced a blank. He needed to let go, but the feminine body felt so good against his, a familiar kind of good.
Reluctantly, he lowered the smaller body to the ground and made no conscious effort to put space between them. He felt every sensual inch of her slide down his torso, and he fought his obvious physical response. Coherent thought eased into his mind, and what seemed like minutes since the whole ordeal had started probably flashed in one or two seconds.
As the smaller body slid down, he spotted blond hair, and he stilled. His rescuee had reached the floor, and still his hands cupped her elbows to steady her. Who? his mind asked, though his heart pounded so hard the organ had surely sensed the truth.
He felt the slender body hiccup loudly and then felt her take two deep breaths. He knew this because with each breath, her breasts pressed more firmly against his chest. The face tilted slowly, and two enormous blue eyes came into view. And for one brief moment, he regretted letting her go.
Lily.
He had saved his Lily.
This woman had wedged herself under his skin from the moment he’d met her and had turned him into a lovesick schoolboy in a matter of hours. Even made him consider the possibility of love at first sight. His only inclination at this moment was to pull her back into his arms and cuddle his Lily close, try to spin time backwards to the day they met and make the day turn out differently.
Except . . . She’s not my Lily any longer.
He had to say something. He couldn’t just stand here like a dolt.
His gaze shot to Garrett. “What’s going on here?”
"4.5 Stars... well written story with so many twists and turns... Although there is no missing shoe, I enjoyed this fairytale retelling. So if you are looking for a fun and fast paced read you cannot go wrong with this one..."
—Long and Short Reviews
"5 Stars... Hope to read more by this author! This story was a perfect read! I just fell in love with all the characters..."
--Once upon an Alpha
"4.4 Stars... cleverly written, heart-warming and entertaining..."
—The Kindle Book Review
"4 Stars... you are given one heck of a story that’ll leave you saying 'wow' when it's all said and done..."
—Night Owl Reviews
"4 Stars... Loved this book. I just couldn't stop reading it. So many twists and turns and ups and downs. So much fun."
—A Fireside Read Book Reviews
"4 Stars... Definitely a cute, fun read with some comedy thrown into the mix..."
—Mignon Mykel Reviews
"4 Stars... Petie McCarty gives us humor, deceit, treachery and love, all rolled up with one of the best cast of characters ever! A classic battle of good versus evil in the business world is the icing on this romantic tale..."
—Tome Tender Book Blog
Petie earned a Bachelor's degree in Zoology from the University of Central Florida, which was no help at all when she decided to write romance novels as a second career. Her particular background did afford her the luxury of many unique assignments during her career as an aquatic biologist, including aquatic plant surveys in Florida lakes and streams by airboat. Many of those off-the-wall assignments provided background for her stories.
Petie spent most of her career working as a biologist at the Walt Disney World Resort, "The Most Magical Place on Earth." What could be more magical than driving by Cinderella's Castle on your way to work every day? Living in the heart of the theme park entertainment industry constantly tweaked her imagination and made her want to write. She had the fun of working in the land of fairy tales by day and creating her own romantic fairy tales by night. She eventually said good-bye to her wonderful "day" job to write her stories full-time.
These days, Petie shares her home on the beautiful Cumberland Plateau with her horticulturist husband, a spoiled-rotten English springer spaniel addicted to green olives stuffed with pimento, and a talkative Nanday conure named Sassy who makes a cameo appearance in Angel to the Rescue. She loves golf, running, and reads voraciously. That's Petie, not the conure.
I'm happy to reveal the covers and blurbs, along with the tentative release dates for the remaining novels in the Lost series.
Book 2 in the Lost Series, Lost Soul:
Synopsis:
He loved her with all his heart.
He mourned her with all of his soul.
Now, he must forget her…
A year has passed since Jason’s life was turned upside down. While trying to deal with his personal loss, he is given a new boss, a new partner, and a new case.
Vin’s safe return brings news that leaves Jason’s life in shambles. He struggles to find a way past the pain he is feeling. But the only way to get past it, is to forget the one he gave his heart and soul to.
Will Jason be able to move on or will he just be another…
Lost Soul?
Tentative Release Date: August 31, 2016
Cover Credits:
Model: Joe Marvullo
Photographer: Jubert Gilay Photography ~> FB Page
Designer: Rochelle McGrath @ Shamrock Designs ~> FB Page
Book 2.5 in the Lost Series, Hidden Destiny:
Synopsis:
Julian Straiz has always worn his heart on his sleeve, even as a lawyer. Even though his career is going great, he finds himself wanting more. He wants to have someone to come home to. Someone to talk to at the end of the day, Someone to love.
Bethany Walters has worked with Julian for 7 years now. When Julian offered her a job as his office manager, she quickly accepted. Over time, Bethany has fallen for Julian, but she can’t bring herself to tell him. Julian deserves someone better than her.
Anyone but her.
An unexpected surprise brings Bethany and Julian closer together. Can Julian convince Bethany that she is his Hidden Destiny?
Tentative Release Date: October 23, 2016
Cover Credits:
Photographer: Kruse Images & Photography ~> FB Page
Designer: Rochelle McGrath @ Shamrock Designs ~> FB Page
Book 3 in the Lost Series, Innocence Lost:
Synopsis:
He always did things by the book…
But not anymore…
Now, it was all about Revenge.
Jason is on a mission that he might not come back from. He is going to Brazil to bring back Lucio. Dead or Alive.
Jason has a plan to infiltrate Lucio’s club by having his partner, Jocelyn go undercover as a dancer. He is ready to grab Lucio when he sees her.
Selene.
Jason must choose between getting his revenge or saving Selene. Will he be able to stop Lucio or will there be Innocence Lost?
Tentative Release Date: December 31, 2016
Cover Credits:
Model: Joe Marvullo
Photographer: David Massa Photography
Designer: Rochelle McGrath @ Shamrock Designs ~> FB Page
Book 3.5 in the Lost Series, Hidden Evil:
Synopsis:
He was broken.
He was dangerous.
She was not going to give up.
Everything Eddie knew was a lie and now he needed to deal with it. He killed for Lucio. He was someone that shouldn’t have an ounce of happiness in his life.
This was his punishment.
Jocelyn saw something in Eddie that she couldn’t shake. She saw the misery and pain that she once felt herself. Once she decided to stay, she knew there was no turning back.
Love isn’t always easy. It can be your worst enemy….
even a Hidden Evil.
Tentative Release Date: February 14, 2017
Cover Credits:
Photographer: Kruse Images & Photography ~> FB Page
Designer: Rochelle McGrath @ Shamrock Designs ~> FB Page
Book 4 in the Lost Series, Lost Time:
Synopsis:
Time can heal all wounds…
Jason and Selene are finally home but things are not right between them.
Jason doesn’t know how to feel with everything that happened in Brazil, especially after finding out about his son. A child he thought he lost with Selene.
A child he thought wasn’t his.
Selene never stopped loving Jason and she knows he didn’t either. She just needs to remind him of that. Will it be enough to bring them back together and become a family? Will Selene lose Jason for good?
Can Jason and Selene make up for Lost Time?
Tentative Release Date: April 2017
Cover Credits:
Model: Joe Marvullo
Photographer: Jubert Gilay Photography ~> FB Page
Designer: Rochelle McGrath @ Shamrock Designs ~> FB Page
Book 4 in the Lost Series, Lost Time:
Synopsis:
Patience is a virtue…
After Jessie rescued Angelica and brought her back home, he made it his personal mission to see that she was ok. Especially after finding out she was Captain Cayhill’s daughter.
Angelica was angry and in pain after finding out about her father. When her mother refused to let her back home, she found herself living on the street and having to do the unthinkable when Jessie intervenes.
The more Jessie tries to help, the more Angelica fights back.
Can Jessie help Angelica find her Hidden Virtue before it’s too late?
Tentative Release Date: June 2017
Cover Credits:
Model: Eric Leto ~> FB Page Photographer: Irish Wolf Photography ~> FB Page Designer: Rochelle McGrath @ Shamrock Designs ~> FB Page
I will be putting up the pre-order for Hidden Heart Next week for a Release date of late June/Mid July. Love Lost Audiobook will also be published sometime this week.
XOXO
Maria
FIRE, FURY, FAITH
WINGED WARRIORS SERIES, BOOK 1
by
N.D. Jones
GENRE: Paranormal Romance
Issa, tribal chieftain and warrior, dies trying to protect his family and tribesmen from slave traders but is given a second chance at life as an angel. Having lost his home, daughters, and life by forces beyond his control, Issa, a Guardian Angel for four centuries, has yet to come to terms with this “failure.” So when a rogue demon attacks and almost kills his wife, Serwa, Issa goes on the hunt. Serwa knows the pain of loss, the burn of fire, the heat of love. She is a Healer Angel, bound to help, to heal, to protect. And the person she wants most to heal is Issa, her husband, her soul mate, her warrior. But what is a woman to do when a husband's guilt and fury challenge the very foundation of their marriage?
Audible Review
"Love Across the Ages" If you could sum up Fire, Fury, Faith in three words, what would they be?
Entertaining
Lovely
Heart-warming
What was one of the most memorable moments of Fire, Fury, Faith?
The information the author gave about the brutality of the slave raid. The author didn't dwell on the ugliness of such events, but told just enough so the reader could get a feel for its cruelty and impact on its survivors - Serwa and Issa
Which scene was your favorite?
Serwa 's forgiveness. She was a powerful angel with a good heart. But she wasn't the type of angel that was all goodness and light. There were depths to both main characters. But Serwa was a forgiving character, which endeared her to me.
Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?
Issa's efforts at redemption was heartbreaking as much as it was heart-warming to see how much he loved his wife and daughters. He was a true Guardian Angel.
Any additional comments?
I hope the author continues with the second book in the series.
I was born and raised in Queens, NY, and I currently reside in Los Angeles, CA.
During my formative years I mainly expressed myself through art and music. Highlights include performing in the all-city Queens band as a saxophonist and copyrighting my own comic strip character. Later I was accepted in to a five year architecture degree program at the esteemed Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA.
Unfulfilled with architecture alone, I found new artistic outlets in the performing arts at CMU, while simultaneously studying architecture. I choreographed and danced in dance shows, modeled in runway shows, and acted in short films and mainstage plays.
Determined to follow my passion for performance, I went straight from CMU to CalArts in Valencia, CA, where I earned an MFA in acting.
Everything I have learned - from my early years of drawing and music, to my architectural years of spacial planning and design, to my time at conservatory acting training - continues to feed the art that I create with each project that I’m involved in.
N. D. Jones lives in Maryland with her husband and two children. Having earned a M.A. in Political Science, she is a dedicated educator. She taught high school social studies for nine years. Currently, she is a professional development specialist with a local Maryland school system, working on increasing student achievement through teacher and administrator efficacy. N.D. is also a continuing education student who is pursuing her doctorate in education in Community College Leadership. A desire to see more novels with positive, sexy, and three-dimensional African American characters as soul mates, friends, and lovers, inspired the author to take on the challenge of penning such romantic reads. She is the author of two paranormal romance series: Winged Warriors and Death and Destiny. N.D. likes to read historical and paranormal romance novels, as well as comics and manga.
YOUNG LADIES OF MYSTERY series
Books for when Nancy Drew fans grow up
by
Stacy Juba
Twenty-Five Years Ago Today Official genre of book: Cozy Mystery/Romantic Suspense Should we dig for the truth when Pandora’s Box is a coffin of buried secrets? When obit writer and aspiring reporter Kris Langley investigates the 25-year-old unsolved murder of Diana Ferguson, a young artist obsessed with Greek mythology, not only does she fall in love with Diana's nephew, but she must also fight to stay off the obituary page herself.
“Kris? Kris?"
Her eyes snapped open, the scream ripping from her throat. She glanced around the dark room, shapes foreign, distorted by shadows. "No. I'm sorry Nicole ..."
"Kris? Kris?" Someone shook her shoulder. She gasped.
"Kris." Eric hugged her. Warm. He felt so warm. He stroked her hair, whispering in her ear. "It's okay. Everything's gonna be okay."
Reality rushed back to her. She hadn't lasted through the movie. She had turned off the television and slipped into unconsciousness. Eric's face fuzzed in and out of focus.
He switched on the lamp. "Want a glass of water?"
"No."
"What were you dreaming?"
"I don't remember."
"You screamed out ‘Nicole.’ You woke me up."
"I'm sorry."
"Don't be. Nicole was your cousin, right? Tell me about her." Eric rubbed her hair again, the gentle strokes calming her.
"We were the same age," Kris said. "Our families were close. We lived in the same neighborhood."
"That must've been fun."
"It was. Lots of fun." Tears spilled down her cheeks. Eric traced one with his fingertip.
"My mother told me your cousin was the girl who was killed by a neighbor," he said in a hushed voice. "I remember hearing about it when I was a kid. She went to a different school, but it still shook up all my friends. It was awful."
He wasn't wearing a shirt, just sweatpants. She must've scared the hell out of him.
"I’d rather not discuss it," Kris said.
"I want to help."
Kris felt the words surging to her throat, but she couldn't tell him. Not now. Not ever. "You are helping, just by being here. I don't want to be alone."
She pressed her lips to Eric's, first softly then more urgent. He responded without hesitation, crushing his mouth against hers. Kris dug her nails into his shoulders and the smooth contoured muscles of his chest. He gently laid her back and nibbled her ear, working a sensuous trail down her neck.
He glided down the zipper of her hooded sweatshirt and skimmed his thumb across her belly. She closed her eyes, arching as his hand slipped upward with agonizing slowness. Her stomach rose and fell as his fingers splayed over her heart. Kris's breathing quickened into a pant, every nerve ending igniting.
His eyes moved up to her, communicating desire. "I care about you, Kris. I was happy when you showed up tonight. I was afraid you didn't feel the same way about me."
"I do."
"Are you sure you want to do this?"
"Yes," she whispered. "Stop talking."
Kris reached behind his head and pulled him down. Her thoughts scattered as she banished Nicole's disapproving ghost to the dim recesses of her mind.
Official genre of book: Cozy Mystery/Romantic Suspense
Personal trainer Cassidy Novak garners popularity and fame while starring in a hit reality show. She catches the attention of an obsessive stalker that turns her well-ordered life topsy-turvy. As Cassidy's competitors disappear in a string of murders, she teams up with Zach Gallagher, the photographer tasked to record her personal moments for a local newspaper. Is Zach trustworthy? He shadows her as easily as the stalker. Cassidy hates the bizarre rules in this guessing game, but when her stalker forces a showdown, she plays to win.
Cassidy sat poised in her chair as former contestants filed onto the soundstage at WBC in New York. Together, the studio audience and television viewers had watched the recorded footage of her walking the plank. Gabriel would now interview the competitors from the inaugural season one final time.
More importantly, he would announce her prize. If it erased most of her debts, then it would at least make this whole embarrassing experience worthwhile. Cassidy’s heart kicked in her chest and sweat moistened her brow.
As one of her old teammates entered, her heart rate skyrocketed for a different reason. Josh Sanchioni slid into a bucket seat, carrying himself stiffer than normal in his sharp gray suit. Studio lights caught his sunbleached strawberry blonde waves, brightening the reddish gold tints.
Cassidy slipped her gaze to his leather shoes. If Josh hadn’t been engaged, they could have been an item. Instead, they’d been good friends until that one evening when the cameras were off and they almost kissed. They’d both realized their mistake and backed away. Things were strained until Josh walked the plank a week later.
Tonight, not only did Cassidy have to face Josh, she would probably meet his fiancée.
Her cheeks heating, Cassidy focused on the competitor beside Josh as a distraction. Adam Horton sat erect, hands folded in the lap of his olive green khakis. He wasn’t military, but he dressed like an Army wannabe. His reptilian eyes drilled into Cassidy, his angular face revealing the shape of bones underneath. A blond goatee darkened his pointy chin.
Cassidy shuddered involuntarily. Adam never said much, but he made her uncomfortable just the same.
Dark Before Dawn Official genre of book: Paranormal YA Suspense
If you could control minds...would you? It's hard enough for Dawn hiding that she's a teen psychic from her new classmates and new step-family, but it gets even tougher when she learns that ESP spells D-A-N-G-E-R. When Dawn gets involved with a fortuneteller mentor and two girls who share her mysterious talents, she finally belongs after years of being a misfit. When she learns her new friends may be tied to freak "accidents" in town, Dawn has an important choice to make - continue developing the talent that makes her special or challenge the only people who have ever accepted her.
Dawn gave an involuntary shudder as they drove past the beach. The gray tide pitched forward, swallowing the slick mirror of sand. She gazed down at her knuckles, fisted in her lap. Her mother and Jeff worshipped the ocean, but to her it was a mysterious monster foaming at the mouth.
She heard Ken's voice rambling about some girl, Renee, and how he planned to approach her at her locker. Renee had a boyfriend, but Ken had seen them fighting a couple times over the summer. Maybe if he started saying hi to her, he’d have a chance. After all, she’d smiled his way at the movies last weekend. At least, Ken was pretty sure the smile was meant for him. All his friends were getting hooked up and he wanted to find someone special.
Dawn turned away from the beach, surprised and a little flattered that Ken was confiding in her. "What’s she’s like?"
"Who?"
"Renee."
"You listened to me talk to Billy last night, didn't you?" he demanded. "I don't believe this. I don't get any privacy."
Hot numbness swept over Dawn’s face. Oh, no. Ken hadn’t been speaking aloud just now. She’d picked up on his thoughts. Every once in awhile, that happened and Dawn couldn’t control it. Sometimes she caught on and managed to avoid making a fool out of herself. Other times, she blurted out something dumb. You idiot, you’ve got to think before talking, Dawn chastised herself.
"What were you doing, standing outside the door?" Ken asked.
"I walked by your door when you were on the phone. Sorry, I didn’t mean to overhear."
"Yeah, I'll bet."
"I didn't do it on purpose." Dawn swallowed as he tightened his grip around the steering wheel. What an awful day, and it was only 7:15 a.m.
"Why’d you bring up Renee now?"
"I don’t know. I … I thought maybe I could help."
"I doubt it. Just forget it, okay?"
That was exactly what Dawn wanted to do.
"Sure." She let out her breath as Ken fixed his attention on the road.
This curse had haunted her since she was seven. Dawn never confided in anyone that she was psychic, but whenever she slipped, other kids shrank away from her. Like last year, with Samantha, a transfer student Dawn tutored in math. She and Samantha hit it off until Dawn asked why Sam’s father was in prison. Samantha's eyes narrowed and she asked how Dawn knew that. No one knew that. Soon, Samantha found a new best friend.
At least Ken had accepted her apology and his own explanation, even though it made her look nosy.
Something made her turn her head. A weather-beaten cream cottage rose on a bluff, stunted and defiant against the broad swath of sky. Shades blocked the windows and silver wind chimes swayed from an overhang on the white-painted porch.
Iciness dripped over her body. A word detonated in her mind.
Evil.
Stacy Juba got engaged at Epcot Theme Park and spent part of her honeymoon at Disneyland Paris, where she ate a burger, went on fast rides, and threw up on the train ride to the hotel. In addition to working on her new Storybook Valley chick lit/sweet romance series, Stacy has written books about ice hockey, teen psychics, U.S. flag etiquette for kids, and determined women sleuths. She has had a novel ranked as #5 in the Nook Store and #30 on the Amazon Kindle Paid List. When she’s not visiting theme parks with her family, (avoiding rides that spin and exotic hamburgers), or writing about them, Stacy helps writers to strengthen their manuscripts through her Crossroads Editing Service. She is currently writing the next books in the Storybook Valley Series, Prancing Around With Sleeping Beauty and The Cinderella Curse.
HONOR BOUND: A Highland Adventure
by
Laura Strickland
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Scottish Historical Romance
Following the disastrous defeat of the clans at Culloden, Scottish Chief’s son Diarmad Ramsay makes his dying father a promise. Diarmad will play the part of Bonny Prince Charlie in an effort to help the true Prince escape the Highlands. With only the fiery Mara MacIvor for guide and with danger on his heels, he must risk all for a Cause in which he no longer believes.
Mara MacIvor considers Ramsay a poor substitute for her beloved Prince. Ramsay may be one of the bonniest men she’s ever met and a braw sight with a sword in his hand, but his disillusionment makes a wide gulf between them. Pursued through the Highlands by Sassenachs and ruthless Highland renegades bent on claiming the price on Prince Charlie’s head, their physical attraction soon becomes a conflagration. But will they ever be bound by more than Diarmad’s vow of honor?
His body stiffened as she eased in beside him, but that did not dissuade her. The rain no longer touched her here and, aye, it did feel warmer.
Ramsay drew a breath even as the heat of his body wrapped around her. She could now catch the scent particular to him—spicy, fresh and rampantly male, with the tang of highland air caught in his hair and clothing. Would he push her away?
He sounded amused when he spoke, his voice vibrating deep in her ear. “I suppose this must satisfy some wish you have of lying with your Prince.”
It satisfied a wish, right enough, but had nothing to do with Charles Edward. Mara retorted, “My only intention is to lie out of the wet and grow warm. Will you complain about us sharing against the chill?”
“And about having my arms full of bonny lass? Nay.”
He thought her bonny. Or did he just tease as he had before? Mara ached to know, and desire rose to her head like a draught of her Da’s whiskey.
She slewed round in her allotted space until she faced him, her mouth just below his. “I am no’ thinking of the Prince,” she confessed, “but still how I might thank you properly for your braw gallantry.”
“Oh, aye?” Did he sound as breathless as she? “And what to your mind would make a proper thank-you?”
Without further words, she pressed her mouth to his.
Born in Buffalo and raised on the Niagara Frontier, Laura Strickland has been an avid reader and writer since childhood. To her the spunky, tenacious, undefeatable ethnic mix that is Buffalo spells the perfect setting for a little Steampunk, so she created her own Victorian world there. She knows the people of Buffalo are stronger, tougher and smarter than those who haven’t survived the muggy summers and blizzard blasts found on the shores of the mighty Niagara. Tough enough to survive a squad of automatons? Well, just maybe.
UNWRAPPING NOEL
by Jennifer Theriot
GENRE: Women's Contemporary Romance
Noel Calabrese hates Christmas as much as she hates her life. While in the Napa Valley on a business trip, she meets Leon Hallas. Could this sexy, silver fox be her ticket to happiness? Will she learn to trust again? Unwrap this steamy little romance about second chances and self-worth, complete with a palindrome...
Audible review 5✯ by Anna Salamatin (March 22, 2016)
"Smexy Christmas" Would you listen to Unwrapping Noel again? Why? Sure, it's a true to life story line. Noel could easily be one of my friends or colleges. What did you like best about this story? It's about mature, adult people with life experiences under their belts. They are dealing with stuff that life really throws at you. Which character – as performed by Sara Gordon – was your favorite? She really brought Noel to life for me. I felt her emotions. I also liked how she portrays Anna, and brings her out of the shadowy side lines so to speak. Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting? I did listen to it in one day. Any additional comments? This is a captivating, emotional, and romantically erotic romance about not just finding love, (after a devastating betrayal) but finding THE LOVE, and having the courage to trust again. ... Noel's story just spoke to me.
Sara Gordon
How long have you been narrating audio books?
A: Since June 2015
What made you decide to do this?
A: I took a voiceover class as I was very interested in animation and commercial voiceover. Audiobooks were something that we touched upon in class and was intrigued by the process.
Is it hard to ‘get into character’?
A: It depends. Some days, external events happen that can kind of dampen the day, but when I get in the booth, it’s pretty easy. Knowing the characters and knowing yourself is what makes it smooth.
Are there any characters you’ve narrated that you identify with?
A: There is something I can relate to in every character I’ve done, but not one in particular that I identify with wholly.
What are your favorite genres to narrate?
A: Children’s books. They are so much fun and you can let your imagination go and try new voices. It gives you a license to be larger than life. Those characters can be anything and you have to decide, if say the character was a tree, you know, what would a tree sound like?
Are sex scenes difficult for you?
A: A little. While I do work from home, it can still feel a little strange and awkward. You have to plan things out about breaths and if it makes sense to keep it during the editing process or is it becoming too breathy and what not. Sometimes I can hear people in the apartment next to me and I wonder, ‘Can they hear me?’ Ha ha, I’m not as open in my own sexuality sometimes and I think that’s the hardest part about doing sex scenes. But, like anything else, when you remember that you have a job to do, you make it work.
Is there any genre you don’t narrate?
A: At this point in time, not really. I’m open to almost anything.
How was it working with Jennifer Theriot?
A: Absolutely wonderful. She was very quick to answer any question as well as generous and patient during the process of recording, editing, and reviewing each audio chapter. It was a great experience.
Do you have a career aside from narrating?
A: I am a singer and actor in New York. To help pay the bills, I’ve had many “day jobs”, mostly as a nanny or in retail.
Any favorite authors you’ve worked with?
A: The authors that I’ve worked with have been great! This is actually only my second audiobook but I’m excited to keep going and maybe one day record something for a book or author that I admire.
How important are strong female characters to you?
A: Very important. I like female characters that are well rounded, strong but still vulnerable, and hopefully not one dimensional. When you have well rounded characters, that’s what creates a relatability- a way to connect better to them and the overall story. We need more of that for female characters because women are not one dimensional. Representation in every form is important.
Do you narrate both male and female voices?
A: Yes. Sometimes I try to record the male voices in the morning when I’ve almost just woken up and my voice isn’t warmed up. It’s lower then and the sound just seems more realistic.
What does Sara Gordon do for fun? What are your hobbies and interests?
A: I love to paint, sing, and visit family in Brooklyn. I used to do races and half marathons and such and now I’m starting to get back into it.
Does your ‘significant other’ (if applicable) support your narrating career?
A: While it’s not applicable for a significant other, my family and friends are very supportive of my work and what I want to do with my life.
Jennifer Theriot hails from the Great State of Texas. She is a career woman, working as CFO of a Texas based real estate investment firm by day and does her writing at nights and on weekends. In her limited spare time, Jennifer enjoys being outdoors; preferably somewhere on a beach curled up with a good book. Spending time with family and friends, listening to music, watching a baseball game and enjoying a good bottle of wine are usually on her to-do lists. She’s mom to three grown children and ‘MiMi’ to three (soon to be four) grandkids – all of whom she adores!
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