Book Spotlight & Giveaway Island Hopping: Trinidad & Tobago by Janice Ross

Genres

Mystery Romance

Caribbean Literature

Multicultural

Historical Aspects

Noteworthy

There's a murder, but the author keeps light. 

The sexual scenes, too are on a light note and no bad language.

Book Blurb

On the surface, the Island Hopping series is a remarkable journey of Sakkara Riley’s quest to locate her parents. What she learns is so much more than was ever expected. In Island Hopping: Trinidad & Tobago, Sakkara enlists the help of a local elderly historian, Natalia Day and her doting grandson, Anthony Lam. Equipped with her parcel of artifacts and a determined bravado, Sakkara uncovers more than she ever thought possible.

Excerpt

Turning upward to get his attention, she encouraged him to dance. Her words were not enough to overtake the powerful sounds of the calypso and soca rhythms, so he did something that nearly caused her to melt into oblivion. He leaned down to the side of her face, gently moved aside dark brown tresses, placed his lips to the very edge of her lobes and whispered. She didn’t entirely make out what he said, but his warm breath shot through her entire body, resting at her navel. When he was finished, Anthony grazed the side of her face with his lips. Before she could rebuke his boldness, she was directed into the crowd, trying in earnest to save face.

Many of the tunes were already familiar, though she couldn’t always quote them verbatim. A couple of times, she even caught Anthony mouthing a few lines, not many but enough. And, as his lips moved, she fell into a trance. Before she knew it, Sakkara forgot about her inability to move her hips, twining like a cleverly skilled Trini-native. They were able to wine their waistlines, easily transitioning from north to south and quickly back again. Though she couldn’t master every stunt as perfectly as the others, her efforts were commendable.

Whenever the partygoers were hyped up over the band’s selection and a particular dancer’s unmatched style, the atmosphere set out a spark so great that even Sakkara was swept into the scene. She forgot her intentions for being in Trinidad. Her lids fell shut and she surrendered. Even at one point, when the DJ declared that they were kicking it back a decade, Sakkara was amazed when she heard the song We Ain’t Going Home by Tambu because it had been a favorite of a school friend by the name of Sasha Benton. When they had study time, Sakkara could never understand how the girl managed to focus and maintain her grades while listening to the fast-paced beats. But Sakkara remembered how excited Sasha had become and how she would tear away in all types of loose movements. At that moment, Sakkara felt her friend’s energy.

Anthony must’ve seen the transformation, having positioned her right in front of his chest. She didn’t resist, not even when he dipped and gripped her hips. The magic of the blaring horns and fervor of the performer’s abilities were enough to wipe out purpose, at least for the night.

Giveaway Details

USA ONLY: 2 autographed paperback copies of "Island Hopping: Trinidad & Tobago" 

(w/ bonus copy of "Jumping Ship" Introductory Novella)

International: 3 e-copies (any format) of "Island Hopping: Trinidad & Tobago" 

(w/ bonus copy of "Jumping Ship" Introductory Novella)

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Meet the author

Janice G. Ross was born in Guyana, South America and migrated to the USA in 1980. She is an author. She enjoys writing about social issues and personal experiences. Her debut release was entitled Damaged Girls. She uses the three books in that series to detail the effects of different forms of abuse, discussing issues that are known to be taboo. Her latest release, Jumping Ship, is a dedication to her country of birth and an introductory novella to the Island Hopping Series – due out in 2014. It’s poised to be a colorful and emotional experience of life, love and family.

Janice enjoys reading. And is drawn to stories with distinct characters that she can love or hate, characters she can form alliances with or characters that she can swear off and despise. She is also weak for a good cultural tale, preferably in the form of historical fiction. Janice loves to be taken off guard by clever language and settings. Janice is also a devout supporter and promoter of other authors through social media. She hosts a weekly show, Cultural Cocktails, on the largest social radio network, Blog Talk Radio.

Connect with the author

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Blog: JGR Writer 
Blog: My Cultural Cocktails

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Facebook: My Cultural Cocktails 

Facebook: JGR Writer

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Book Spotlight & Giveaway: Firebolt by Adrienne Woods

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Firebolt 
The Dragonian Series
Book One
Adrienne Woods
Genre: YA Fantasy
Publisher: GMTA  Publishing – Mythos Press
Number of pages: 289
Word Count: 95 000
Amazon

Book Description: 

For the love of blueberries, Elena Watkins was destined for greatness, even though she didn’t know it. Before entering Paegeia Elena was not special, she wasn’t even average until the night her father was killed by a creature she thought only existed in fairy tales – a dragon. With her father’s death leaving her orphaned, Elena is whisked away to her true birthplace, Paegeia.

Arriving at Dragonia Academy, the premier school for young Dragonians; a school she was never meant to attend because her father was a dragon. Unbeknownst to Elena danger is lurking behind the enchanted vines concealing the once thriving capital of Paegeia – Etan.

Goran, the darkest sorcerer in the realm, has lain dormant for over a century behind the crumbling city. There, in the shadowy ruins he plots his revenge to destroy the only weapon that can kill him – the King of Lion Sword.

When the sword is stolen without a trace Elena doesn’t think twice about seeking it; knowing deep down that it is her destiny to save her new home.

***

Excerpt:

“Dad, dragons...” I took a deep breath. Dragons didn't exist, but then the image of the huge thing that had flown past me a couple of seconds ago sprang into my head. “You mean that thing was a dragon?”

He nodded, and looked over his shoulder.

A figure with huge paws and talons flew in front of the truck. Tires screeched at the same time I shrieked. The truck spun around on the turf a couple of times and came to a standstill on the dark stretch of road. My heart jumped at a great speed inside my chest. My throat and lips became dry.

Pushing my face against the cool glass of the passenger window, I searched the horizon for any sign of life. Apart from the pickup’s headlights, there wasn’t a single light peeking through the blanketed darkness, and the rain crushing down made me see figures I didn’t know were real or imagined. Dragons don’t exist.

“You okay?” my father yelled.

“I'm fine.” I tore my eyes away from the window.

“Elena, I need to get out─”

“No, no, please don't leave me here!” I could feel the fear beginning to rise up again and my vision became blurry. Why am I afraid? Dragons aren’t real.

He cupped my face and made me look at him, his hands trembling. “Listen to me, Elena. Listen!”

I tried to swallow my tears, but it was no use. They were caught in the back of my throat, silencing me as he said his goodbye.

He hugged me tight and kissed me on my forehead. I could feel the love he had for me behind that kiss.

“You drive like hell, you hear me? Don't slow down for anybody. There's a motel on Interstate 40. Just stay on this road, you can't miss it. Someone named Matt will meet you there.”

“For the love of blueberries Dad, it's pouring dogs and horses outside. I can't leave you here with whatever...” We can rationally sort this out.

Dad cringed and looked down for a minute. When he looked at me again, that set to his jaw was back. I knew my words hadn’t made an impact on him whatsoever. He had already made up his mind for the both of us.

My strength returned as I slowly came to terms with what I had to do.

A man appeared in the middle of the road. The rain made it hard for me to see him, but the headlights of the truck outlined his figure. I squinted to see him clearer. He was tall with long black hair; wet strands clung to his face. He wore a pair of pants, no T-shirt, and it looked like no shoes either. He stared at the pickup for a couple of minutes, and it made my heart pound faster. He began to walk slowly toward us.

“Daaaaad?” I slapped his shoulder, trying to expel the fear from my body.

“Elena.” He grabbed my wrist. “I'll be fine. You need to go. Now. And, Bear, I'm so sorry. Whatever happens, don't stop for anything.”

“Dad?” My lower lip quivered like mad. He kissed me one more time on my forehead and wiped away my tears gently with his thumbs.

“I'll meet you there.” He climbed out of the truck and slammed the door in my face. My gaze switched back at the macho loon making his way toward Dad, who stood right next to the pickup. I quickly moved into the driver’s seat, took a deep breath, and buckled up.

With my hands trembling on the steering wheel, I took another deep breath.

***

About the Author:

I was born and raised in South Africa, where I still live with my husband, and two beautiful little girls. I always knew that I was going to be a writer but it only started to happen about four years ago, now I can’t stop writing.

In my free time, If I get any because Moms don’t really have free time, I love to spend time with friends, if it’s a girls night out, or just a movie, I’m a very chilled person.

My writing career is starting with Firebolt, book one with the Dragonian Series, there will be four books in total and two to three books that is about the stories taking place inside The Dragonian Series.

I do write in different Genres, I have a woman’s fiction called the Pregnancy Diaries, but it would be published under another name. And then I have a paranormal series, called the Watercress series. There are about ten novels in that one.

So, plenty of novels to come out, so little time.

I hope you are going to embrace the Dragonian Series as much as I loved writing them.

Blog http://woodsadrienne.wordpress.com

https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Dragonian-Series/301375039891281

Twitter: erichb3

Goodreads: Adrienne Woods

Google+: Adrienne Woods

***

Giveaway

1-print copy Firebolt by Adrienne Woods with beaded book mark  open to US Shipping

5 e-copies Firebolt by Adrienne Woods

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Blog Tour/Character Interview & Giveaway Linked by Judy Serrano

Judy Serrano graduated from Texas A&M University, Commerce with a BA in English. She is a substitute teacher at her children’s school district and teaches developmental writing at a local college. She is also a freelance writer for certain on-line periodicals and does editing for indie authors. She is the author of The Easter’s Lilly Series, The Linked Series, and The Ivy Vines, Visions Series.

Although she is originally from New York, she currently resides in Texas with her husband, four children, (all boys) and five dogs. She is also a singer/songwriter in her spare time.

 http://www.judyserrano.com/ 

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Smashwords with Black Rose 

Writing Smashwords, Ivy Vines, Visions

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About Linked

Daphne Foster is a substitute teacher stuck in an English class, waiting for that dreaded parent-teacher conference. With much preparation and anxiety, she encounters the unforgettable Charlie Cross. His charm and good looks, win her over but rumors of his involvement with organized crime make his continued disappearances disturbing.

In walks Heathcliff Vanderpool, creating a love triangle of unusual sorts. Unknown to Daphne, Heathcliff and Charlie are old friends: Older than she could have imagined. With Charlie away on business, Daphne and Heathcliff discover a passion between them lying beneath the surface. As their souls link, pulling away from Charlie becomes next to impossible. Will his involvement in organized crime consume them both before she’s able to get free? When you become “linked,” the choice may not be your own.

-- Author of The Easter's Lilly Series and Linked published by Black Rose Writing Believe.com

Believe.com 

.JudySerrano.com

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Dallas Parenting

Dallas Book Reviews

An Interview with a Vampire

Dante is the brother of one of the main characters, Charlie Cross. He has a small part in book one of the series, but is a crucial turning point in book two. Dante has asked if he can interview the author, Judy Serrano. Here’s what he had to say.

Mrs. Serrano, why didn’t you give me a bigger part in Linked? I wanted to be a more important part of Daphne’s life.

Dante, when I write a book, I start with a basic idea. When I sit down at my MacBook, whatever happens is totally the idea of the characters. You were a delightful surprise. 

 Well that doesn’t make me feel any better. I was the hero. Why didn’t I get the girl?

I understand your frustration. But don’t worry. In book two you will certainly be the star.

Why did you make Charlie a gangster? Was it really necessary to bring organized crime into it?

I am actually pretty familiar with this storyline. Easter’s Lilly, which is the first novel of my last series, is all about the Mafia and its effects on the lives of the innocent. I thought it would be a unique and fun added touch.

I guess I understand. I liked the way my character fit into that scenario. Now, you are the author, so you know all… Does Daphne love me? Sometimes it’s hard to tell.

You and Daphne have a special relationship. Both Charlie and Heathcliff are better for it. You easily became my favorite. That’s all I’m going to say about that.

Thank you so much for taking the time to talk to me. I am really excited about book two. Can’t wait to see what happens to me next.

It promises to keep you on your toes. Even you, Dante, will surprise yourself.

International Giveaway

For a chance to win One of Ten e-books of Easter's Lilly

The winner will be announced at the end of the tour.

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Guest Post: Choices by Shiela Bliss

Guest Post by Sheila Bliss

            There were so many things I wanted to be when I grew up. I wanted to be a TV news anchorwoman, a fashion designer, a news journalist, a nurse, a teacher and a psychologist. That’s quite a variety. I wanted to make sure I had all the bases covered. I was also a voracious reader. My entire family was. Memories as a kid always involved a family member reading a book. My dad, my mom, and my older sisters. The best vacations also involved sharing our responses to whatever book one of us was reading at the time. My family instilled in me a huge love for reading. It was also my escape. My childhood was lonely at times and broken. Reading allowed me to escape the loneliness and I found solace reading about people who experienced a similar pain between the pages of a book. The words breathed life into these imaginary people that I wanted to be friends with, that I wanted for family. It also sparked a deep desire to create those same feelings of connection, relief and escapism for another person. Ultimately, I wanted to create and help people in the process. Teaching called the most to me at the time of college major declaration, though. My fear of failure was strong, so strong I allowed it to overshadow my desire.  So, I went with door number two or six if you count all my other options. I could still be creative and I loved working with children, especially children in impoverished areas. Although if you talked to my family they would swear I became a teacher just so I could boss people around. In the fourteen years I taught, I felt restless, I still felt a deep yearning to explore something different. I’m a goal oriented person. I like challenges and I wanted to challenge myself to something bigger. I wasn’t getting any younger and I wanted to write.

            I always wrote something, really bad poetry, random thoughts, character names, gratitude journals, quotes, lesson plans, wish lists and ideas for novels. I started my very first scrapbook when Princess Diana and Prince Charles were married in 1981 at the age of thirteen. I cut out pictures and wrote my own bubble quotes for each picture. I was so proud of myself. I kept going from there, writing diary entries, taking creative writing classes whenever I could in high school and college, keeping journals that were cathartic and therapeutic during some dark days in my early twenties when I was diagnosed with an auto-immune disorder that was incredibly exhausting and as equally painful. I took a break from teaching sixth grade in West Philadelphia so I could figure out how to tackle this auto-immune disease, went back to school to procure my master’s degree and started my family. When my oldest who is now sixteen, was ready to begin school I went back to school with her and started teaching Kindergarten. I’ve been there ever since. I love teaching. I love Kindergartners. They are my absolute favorite, but my yearning and restlessness was increasing and suddenly my reading choices were changing as well. My girls started talking about this book Twilight. I had no idea what they were talking about and I insisted that I read it first before they did. I was hooked, but what interested me more than anything was Stephenie Meyer’s personal story about how she started. She inspired me to sit in my girl cave, as my husband has affectionately dubbed it, and write something more than lesson plans. She gave me the courage to put my ideas that gnawed at my brain on my computer screen and actually save it and then have the nerve to label it. It was reading Jamie McGuire’s personal story that gave me the balls to self-publish it. I never met Jamie. She wouldn’t know me from Eve, but her story, her advice she posts on her blog, inspired me to not be afraid. She held my hand even though she didn’t know it or me. For the first time in my life, I was truly going to live by my own personal mantra, feel the fear, but do it anyway. It was time for mommy to practice what she preached to her little people at home. It was time to go big or go home. The clock was ticking and it wasn’t the female one, it was the life one that kept chiming through the night, through the fog of my dreams.

            I started Choices in 2009. It’s taken me five years from beginning to the end product you’ve purchased on Amazon. I wrote during the summer months, during holidays, weekends, days off and sometimes these characters hijacked my sleep and I wrote all night and then taught all day. I’ve had some major bumps in the road, some huge failures and some huge successes writing this book. Some people are shocked at the subject matter because I’m a Kindergartner teacher, but honestly that’s not all I am. I am a creator. I wanted to write something outside my realm of knowledge. Some of my friends were shocked and couldn’t understand why I didn’t write a children’s book…um, because I didn’t want to. I wanted to write something real, something edgy, something dark, yet promising, hopeful. I wanted to write a big romance, but not a typical romance that’s sweet and neat. I wanted to write something gritty and real. I wanted to write a story about a strong woman who’s had some strong situations that forced her to feel out of control and her response to it. I wanted to write about a character that was forced to really examine her life. I wanted to write a story that forced this character to ask herself the question no one wants to ask themselves, am I happy or am I lying to myself and believing the lie? Am I just going through the motions? I wanted to write a story about how a woman doesn’t have to sacrifice everything about herself in order to save someone who isn’t interested in saving themselves. When is enough? When do you draw the line in the sand and say I need to take care of me now. Life is hard. Life gives you cards you don’t want. Life is unfair. Life is real. Life isn’t pretty sometimes, but it does give you choices. So, therefore, I give you Choices. 

                              Book Blurb

One never truly knows what goes on behind closed doors in a marriage. On the surface Laurel Brittingham’s life is idyllic but when you dive below the sparkling facade and submerge yourself within the murky, slimy sand at the bottom, life is never as it appears.

Laurel is a devoted, loving and loyal wife and mother. She married her high school sweetheart and created three new young lives during her marriage to Paul, all the while denying and avoiding the role his demons played in their marriage. Laurel’s only saving support system, other than her three children is her rewarding career as a nurse and her three gal pals that she cherishes beyond words. Addictions, anger and emotional abuse are the cornerstone of her marriage until one day life presents an interesting choice. 

Laurel wasn’t looking for him, she wasn’t seeking him out. Laurel was loyal; for better or worse, weren’t just vows they were a way of life. Fate or destiny introduced a much younger man into her life; a much younger man who was also the son of a good friend. Brandon turned her world and her heart inside out and upside down. Their love was undeniable and soul mending. 

Unfortunately, everything has a price. Their relationship unravels a web of lies, betrayal, abduction and deceit. What Laurel doesn’t know is how close to home this ugly web of lies comes. Laurel begins to travel down a path of shocking truths with twists and surprises she never fathomed, even saving a soul she never thought possible. She’s forced to make choices that will affect her family, her friends, and her happiness, but more importantly may destroy the very life she holds dearest.

                           
                              About Sheila Bliss

This independent author enjoys writing books about circumstances that shape a person's life and that life is all about the choices we make.

She hopes that you enjoy reading her first novel Choices as much as she's enjoyed writing it!

                                  Get in touch

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSheilaBliss

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Book Spotlight & Giveaway: Darkness Before Dawn by Kellie Wallace

Darkness Before Dawn - PROMO Blitz

By Kellie Wallace

Historical Fiction

Date Published: 7/17/2013

In June 1940, Germany bombed the Island of Guernsey, bringing World War II to the Channel Islands. With her home in the midst of war, jazz singer Catherine La Mar must adapt to change. Within days, the island is overun. Resistance cells start to emerge, hindering the German forces. Catherine’s life is inevitably changed when childhood friend Thomas Potter is linked as the ringleader to one of the Island’s biggest cells.

The people she once knew are no longer who they seem to be. But nothing could prepare her for when she meets Nazi officer Captain Max Engel. Her view on the war forever changes when she is given a chance for love and new beginnings. For once in her mundane life she unveils her true self, as Max teaches her how to truly live. Their love puts a strain on Catherine’s family, risking the lives her sisters and friends. As the war intensifies and divides the people on Guernsey, Max and Catherine must decide if their love is really worth risking it all?

EXCERPT

Plush greenery cushioned Catherine’s as she trudged through the knee-length grass towards the cliff face. A violent wind came up from the sea whipping at her dress and hair. Brightly coloured daisies and narcissi flowers dotted the swaying plain.

A sense of ease and sovereignty came over her as she stood in the wind, moving gently against its brunt. German tankers tarnished the vast ocean in front of her. Seagulls and kestrels sang in the air, catching the passing wind like dancers.

She always loved coming here to revel in nature’s beauty, believing nothing will ever change it. With the occupation taking force, it seems inevitable the world she knew will never be the same again.

Visiting the cliff tops on her own was risk, but as headstrong as she might be, Catherine wanted a release, to see a part of Guernsey not yet touched by the Reich. She slunk past German patrols on her way, blending into the environment like a chameleon.

As she stared out into blue azure of the ocean, movement in the corner of her eye caught her attention. A young man teetered on the edge of the cliff, peering over the brink. Without a second thought, she ran towards him, slowing her pace when he saw her approach. His eyes wide with fear.

“I’ll do it,” he warned, his body stiff as though he was still deciding to jump. The wind grew stronger and the man appeared to be using all of his strength to stay upright.

“Are you alright, sir?” she asked calmly.

His hair was blown high on top of his head and the wind already made its mark upon his skin. “No . . .”

“Did you lose something?” Catherine said carefully. “Has someone fallen off the cliff?”

“I don’t want . . . I don’t want this,” he cried.

“Don’t want what?”

The man stole a quick glance towards the tankers dotting the ocean horizon and turned back to Catherine. “I don’t want them,” he yelled, pointing towards the sea. “I don’t want to be ruled by those murderers!”

Catherine now understood the catalyst to the man’s distress. No one on Guernsey wanted an occupation by the Germans. Half the population had fled in terror.

Catherine took another step closer, wary of the fear in his brown eyes as she did so. She reached out her hand until they were inches apart. “What’s your name?”

“Ben.”

“Ben, what about you with come with me and grab a nice piece of cake at the cake shop? How does that sound?”

The young man shook his head furiously. “No, they will be there! They have taken over everything!”

“No, they won’t be,” Catherine said slowly. “It will only be you and me.”

Ben looked behind him to the crashing waves below, his body limp in defeat. He let out a sigh and turned towards her. “Okay,I will come with you.” He reached for her hand, when another voice broke through the defiant wind.

“What’s going on here?”

Catherine glanced over her should to see a young German officer standing behind them, bracing against the wind.

Ben’s eyes widened at the sight and he started to back up towards the edge of the cliff. 

“No, no, no,” he mumbled, slipping on the lip of the cliff.

Heart pounding, Catherine stretched out her hand to the distressed youth. “Ben! Please, come with me,” she ordered, ignoring the figure behind her.

Ben shook his head, his hands outstretched as though seeking redemption from above. “I’m sorry. I cannot do it,” he said. “Not with him around.” Ben’s swollen eyes glanced at Catherine once more, before turning into the wind, and jumping off the cliff.

“Nooo!” Her body flashed hot then cold as she fell to her knees in the damp grass, her hand stretched outright, grasping nothing but thin air. She felt the officer brush past her as he poked his head over the cliff.

The man’s body lay crucified on the rocks, blood speckling the blue ocean water.

Catherine ignored the tugging on her arm as the German officer hauled her to her feet. Violently, she pushed him away.

“Get off me!” she screamed, regaining her footing. He was close now, close enough she could see the lines of youth etched in his face.

“What is your name?” he asked calmly.

“Catherine La Mar.” She almost spat her name at him.

The officer dipped his head in a polite greeting as if what happened meant nothing to him. “May I see your papers?” he asked, bringing out his hand.

Catherine sucked in a breath of indignation and pulled her papers, which consisted of an identity card and birth certificate from a pocket in her dress. She watched him as he scanned them over. It was the first time she managed to have a good look at him.

It was his eyes that caught her breath, standing out in contrast to his dull uniform. 

They were the same shade of the sea, crashing and spitting below them. His straw-coloured hair was slicked under his visor cap. He was the perfect example of Hitler’s Aryan race.

The officer handed her papers back to her. She wanted a fight; wanted anything to contest him. “Why didn’t you stop him?” she asked.

About the Author Kellie Wallace

Born in Sydney, Australia Kellie Wallace developed a love for the written word early in life, recalling her earliest memory when she was three years old. Her father used to read to her when she was a child, establishing a deep love and respect for books. Kellie wrote a bit in high school, most memorably her first fantasy book called Giblin the Conquer, an X Files fan fiction and a military fiction.

After finishing high school, Kellie moved to the sunny Northern Beaches from the Central Coast and carved a successful career in the media/advertising industry writing for numerous Sydney based publications.

An aspiring novelist, Kellie fulfilled a dream in 2008 having her first book All She Ever Wanted published by Zeus Publications at the age of 22 years old.

In 2013, Kellie released her newest catalogue of books, Darkness before Dawn and Skylark. In her spare time she loves to write, game and draw. Her first crime fiction novel To lean of falling men will be out in April 2014, along with EarthWalker (out now!) and dystopian Edge of Tomorrow (August 2014).

She currently resides in Sydney with her husband.

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Book Spotlights: Still Hot for You and The Right Temptation by Diane Escalera

Still Hot For You and The Right Temptation - PROMO Blitz

by Diane Escalera

Contemporary Romance

Date Published: March 25, 2014 *Re-Release*

Desperate times call for desperate measures. And Shay LaCosta is pretty desperate. She's wrecked her blissful marriage of five years by demanding she and her husband Dylan have a baby. What the hell was she thinking? She knows she was wrong and she’s ready to set things right, if only Dylan will let her. Bet he can’t shun her Booty Camp offer: delicious, white-hot sex in exchange for what’s going on inside his brain.

Dylan may be macho and stubborn, but he really does miss his wife. A little of Shay's pushing gets him past their estrangement and into her web of seduction. She seems to have an erotic week mapped out to perfection, and who is he to complain? Their marriage is meant to be, so they'll fight with each other, and they'll fight for each other.

 WARNING: Racy Language, Hot Sex, Seduction

The Right Temptation

by Diane Escalera

Contemporary Romance

Date Published: March 25, 2014 *Re-Release*

Kayla Martinez has recently landed an RN position at a prestigious hospital in her hometown. The new job is everything she’s hoped for, especially when one hot specimen shows up in the ER. She hasn’t seen her childhood crush in years, and considering how much hotter he’s gotten over time, she almost ends up needing resuscitation.

The last thing Nico LaCosta needs is a broken arm. Now his pal’s kid sister wants to soothe his pain, but he’d rather keep his distance so her big brother doesn’t break his other arm. Kayla’s no child anymore, though. She’s one hot-blooded woman, determined to remind him of a mind-blowing kiss back when they were teenagers. Leave it to Kayla to drop by his house unannounced and play Nurse Seductive. A guy has to follow the buddy code, or face the consequences. Still, sometimes giving in to temptation is worth it…

CONTENT WARNING: Racy Language, Hot Sex, Lusty Latin Lovers

About the Author

Diane Escalera

Born and raised in the Bronx, NY, Diane Escalera makes her home in coastal North Carolina.  The sultry surroundings are a steady source of inspiration for her hot love stories.  Diane is married, has two children and a super cute dachshund she can’t get enough of.  She writes contemporary romance and is published with Kensington Publishing and Lyrical Press.

Authors Links

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Buy Links

Still Hot for You – Amazon

The Right Temptation - Amazon

Author Interview & Giveaway: Jennifer Ainsley The Final Demon War by Sidney Stone

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About the Author:

Sidney Stone is a hiker, deer whisperer and non-pretentious wine connoisseur. An addicted reviewer on Yelp, he is also creator of affordable housing (although technically he is homeless part-time), thinks The Replacements are the best band of the Eighties and loves to boost his LinkedIn count with people he doesn't know.

He lives in both Northern and Southern California while constantly traveling to Orange County to visit his son, who can now beat his father at ping pong and chess rather easily (and is charmingly arrogant while doing it). A graduate of UC Irvine and Pepperdine University, Sidney wishes he chose at least one university to attend that had a college football team to root for.

The first scene Sidney thought of for Jennifer Ainsley: The Final Demon War included a rather large massacre (take that for what it is worth). However, inspired by the works of Stephen King, Dean Koontz and Clive Barker; the book's violence is offset by dark humor and deep human emotion just like in real life where Sidney's darkness is offset by creatively placed sarcasm and an overwrought romanticism. For example, while Jennifer Ainsley: The Final Demon War is a Fantasy-Horror novel, Sidney also still tears up at the end of both Field of Dreams and An Officer and a Gentleman.

Contact him at www.sidneystone.net  or https://www.facebook.com/sidneystoneauthor

https://twitter.com/SidneyStoneAuth

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1360070.Sidney_Stone

www.amazon.com/author/sidneystone

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Do you plan everything or just let the story flow?

Thank you so much for featuring my book on your blog! At the beginning of this story, and the four screenplays I previously wrote, I outline the tale from beginning to end.  However I am not a slave to the outline.  I let inspiration guide me. So while I may know where the road begins and ends, I’m not always sure how many detours I will take to get to my final destination.

Do your characters ever want to take over the story? 

All the time  when your lead villain is a fallen angel who has been alive for billions of years, he tends to always think the story is just about him ;) Seriously though, that’s where outlining the story helps so that you do not get sidetracked too much along the way.

What is your favourite food?

This is a tough one!  I eat out all of the time and I’m an avid reviewer on Yelp:

http://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=NGcH1lvIvrzgzCTPca3DEQ

My favourite go-to food would have to be pizza, thin crust. But I also love American BBQ...baby back ribs and tri-tip.  Yet, I’m becoming a bigger fan of sushi and sake (they must be combined). Hmmmm, I’m not sure I can answer this! :)

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

Unfortunately I’m a night owl which really upsets Daytime Sidney as he is always tired ;)

Where do you dream of travelling to and why?

I’ve been to Europe once and I’m dying to go again. France, Italy, England, Spain, Denmark, Germany. I also cannot wait to do an African safari, visit the South American rainforest and save my pennies to go to Antarctica. A lot of travelling in my future indeed :)

Do distant places feature in your books?

Not so much in the first Jennifer Ainsley book. It primarily occurs in the United States.  However, in the second book, the epic scale and ambition exponentially increase and the story will take place all over the world.

Do you listen to music while writing?

Yes!!!  That is a must...Classic or Modern Rock, Classic soul or classical music.  I guess I’m a classicist ;) Beethoven’s 9th is wonderful for inspiring great battle action scenes! And nothing beats Otis redding when writing a lovemaking scene :)

Could you tell us a bit about your latest release?

Jennifer Ainsley: The Final Demon War is the first book in a planned trilogy.  It is a tale of love and loss that uses supernatural elements to illuminate truths about the “real” world. Here is some background on each of the characters:

Jennifer Ainsley: She lost her beloved mother and sister in a mysterious car crash when she was a child, the same night billionaire Jonathon Tait had a vision she was the one to wield the Sword of Jesus (Matthew 10:34 Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword) against the demons. Adopted by Jonathon and raised wiith his twins to love them like she did her sister, Jennifer knows nothing of her destiny until the night of her college graduation party. Also manipulated by Jonathon to fall for the Head of Tait Security Andrew Walker, the coming storm will engulf her and she may yet lose even more than she already has.

Jonathon Tait: 170 year old billionaire who in league with the demons, has become the richest, most powerful man in the world. The murder of his second love, plus the love of his children, begin to place Jonathon on the path of not redemption; but at least a way to save the two people he loves the most.

Mpordock: The leader of the Demons.  A fallen Angel who also had forsaken the Underworld to wage a final battle against humanity. Disdainful of Lucifer and yet craving the acceptance of the God who cast Mordock out of Heaven, Mordock thinks that if he destroys humanity (like God himself almost did with The Flood) maybe God will recognize him and maybe Mordock can become holy again.

Andrew Walker: Like Jennifer, Andrew lost his family in a tragic accident and that shared past has given them a fierce, passionate love. Their initial lovemaking scene illustrates how much they are in love with each other and how much they would protect one another. But Andrew, one of the few living men to have killed a demon, is not an experienced demon fighter and may be over his head in the coming war.

Mike Davis: The government operative most skilled in killing demons, he is known throughout the world has having the greatest luck in remaining alive when so many other soldiers like him, including a former lover, have perished. Spying on Jennifer while also attempting to protect her, he falls in love with her but realizes this will always be unrequited. Jennifer will always be in love with Andrew which causes Mike to take terrible risks yet also give him an unwavering strength as he wants to do right by Jennifer.

Andrew and Sophia Tait: Jonathon’s twins who were an unexpected surprise birth. Jonathon loves them so much he betrays his alliance with the demons. As the conflict grows though, Jonathon and others begin to realize the twins may have an even greater destiny than Jennifer. And if Mordock finds that out, all could be lost.

What have you learned about writing and publishing since you first started?

The promotion part is the trickiest thing to navigate.  And I do not quite understand why authors want to give away the hard work they do for free or for .99? That is just not sustainable from an economic point of view.  Especially if you want your books read and the stories enjoyed.  At those prices, too many people just fill up their Kindles without actually reading the books.

Is there anything you would do differently?

I spent a lot of money on worthless promotion that did nothing to really promote my book.  I’d promote it a bit differently if starting over but I have learned a great deal that will help me promote the second book more efficiently.  I have enjoyed the book blog tour that i have done and that has increased awareness.

Who, or what, if anything has influenced your writing?

I grew up very poor and ended up dropping out of High School. To escape I read a lot of early Stephen King, Dean Koontz and Tolkien. Eventually I got myself together, worked myself through college twice and eventually ended up with a Masters Degree in Urban and Regional Planning. The humble upbringings, the strength to persevere and those early writers all influence my writing to some degree. I hope I was able to combine the darkness with the light, while adding in deep characters, that will enable readers to become fully invested in my stories.

Anything you would say to those just starting out in the craft?

Be professional especially if you are an independent writer.  Invest in your craft, invest in editing, invest in a great cover, invest in formatting and invest in your talent. Don’t sell yourself and other writers short too by always reaching for the easy fix of giving your stuff away for a quick few dozen book copy sales. It devalues reading and it devalues the writing.

What are three words that describe you?

This question reminds of one they always ask on dating websites  Just three words? Creative, intelligent, funny.

What's your favourite book or who is your favourite writer?

As I wrote above, I love early Stephen King and early Dean Koontz.  I devoured Watchers in a weekend I enjoyed that Koontz book so much. I guess I would have to say that the Tolkien Lord of the Rings trilogy would be the work I would take to a desert island and consider my favourite.

List of previous books if any

Jennifer Ainsley: The Final Demon War is my first book.

Thanks again for the book feature and interview!

You're welcome :)

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Jennifer Ainsley 
The Final Demon War
Sidney Stone
Genre: Urban Fantasy/Suspense/
Horror/New Adult
Date of Publication: December 2013
Number of pages: 308
Word Count: 102,400
Cover Artist: Pencilbox Studios

Book Description: 

“Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword” - Matthew 10:34

Demons are preparing to launch the Final War to destroy humanity.

Can one young woman wielding the Sword of Jesus ensure our survival and redemption?

Will she lose both her love and her soul in the process?

Available at Amazon in Paperback and Kindle formats


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Tour giveaway

$25 Gift card- winner's choice of Starbucks or Amazon

1 signed print copy open to US Shipping

2 ebook copies

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