Monday, September 30, 2013

Spotlight Stop: Dark Souls by Ketley Allison

Dark Souls
Dark Souls Series
Volume I
by Ketley Allison


Genre: New Adult Urban Fantasy
Date of Publication: July 19, 2013
ISBN: 978-0-615-85755-8
Number of pages: 280
Word Count: 103,000


Book Description:

19-year-old Emily desperately wants a name for what she is. For what is consuming and torturing her. For what is changing her.
But she’s not crazy like her mother. She’s not.
Emily may not be as crazy as she thinks, because her body is no longer her own. Something is stirring inside her. It is soft, seductive, and tells her what to do to survive. As Emily learns that her world has been infected by demons that consume human souls and fit seamlessly into the bodies they empty, she must also accept that she is one of them. Yet, she is different from the rest, because her darkness didn’t inhabit her, it was awakened. And it doesn’t just want the humans.

Amazon | BN | Smashwords 

About the Author:

Ketley Allison is a twenty-something (maybe almost thirty-something) author who believes that supernatural love shouldn't stop at eighteen. She began her career by writing books as birthday presents for her friends (with her friend as the main character and opposite a super sexy lead, of course) before ending it in order to walk down a path she thought she was supposed to follow.

The writing bug never left her--and, in fact, would often bleed into the official papers she was supposed to write--so now Ketley's putting down her suit and finally following her dream. While her friends are no longer the stars of her books, she still throws in bits and pieces of them into each and every one of her characters.

As a result, her books tend to focus a lot on friendships as well as love, because let's be honest, friends are what really get you through--especially when your epic love turns into epic heartbreak.


Author Contacts:
Web/Blog | TwitterFacebook | Goodreads  


Saturday, September 28, 2013

Book Spotlight & Giveaway: The Hambledown Dream by Dean Mayes

The Hambledown Dream
by Dean Mayes

About the Book:

Australian Denny Banister had it all; a successful career, a passion for the guitar, and Sonya - the love of his life. Tragically, Denny is struck down with inoperable cancer. 

Andy DeVries has almost nothing; alienated from his family, moving through a dangerous Chicago underworld dealing in drugs, battling addiction while keeping a wavering hold on the only thing that matters to him: a place at a prestigious conservatory for classical guitar in Chicago. As Andy recovers from a near fatal overdose, he is plagued by dreams - memories of a love he has never felt, and a life he's never lived. Driven by the need for redemption and by the love for a woman he's never met, he begins a quest to find her, knowing her only by the memories of a stranger and the dreams of a place called Hambledown...



a Rafflecopter giveaway


Where you can purchase this book:



About the Author
Emerging onto the literary stage in 2010 when in his mid 30's, Adelaide based author and Pediatric ICU Nurse Dean Mayes describes himself as somewhat of a late bloomer, having almost given up on the prospect of ever being published. Dean had an idea for a story that he dearly wanted to tell however, and decided instead to blog the story rather than allow it to wither and die in his imagination.
Quite unexpectedly, the blog took off, quickly logging upwards of 3000 unique visits per month as a rapidly growing audience “tuned in” to Dean’s dream like tale of a young man who discovers he has taken on the memories and dreams of a complete stranger in the aftermath of a near fatal drug overdose.
Following a chance meeting with Canadian based publisher Central Avenue in mid 2009, Dean was signed by Creative Director Michelle Halket to an initial two year contract. In 2010, Dean’s humble blog became his debut novel “The Hambledown Dream” – a lyrical and moving romance about a young man’s journey on both sides of mortality. The novel has since gone on to receive global attention and critical acclaim.
Having established himself as an author of great passion and literary style, Dean set about penning a follow up novel that was not merely a repeat performance. After 2 years of meticulous research, Central Avenue Publishing released the powerful Australian family drama “Gifts of the Peramangk” in October 2012.
A third project, an experimental sci-fi novella entitled “The Regenesis Cluster”, was released in 2013. Dean describes this piece as an exploration of death and life, an artistic interpretation of reincarnation using words.
Dean is now working on his third feature length novel, the tentatively titled “The Recipient”.

Friday, September 27, 2013

Book Spotlight: Everlasting by Tmonique Stephens


EVERLASTING, Book 2
by Tmonique Stephens
Blurb:
Kill the beast.
Save your brother.
Win your freedom.
No problem.
Falling in love with the cop trying arrest you?
Problem.
To save his twin from death, Reign Nicolis will have to bargain with Goddess of the Dead, and once more become what he despises, El Mortem, The Scourge, a killer trained to show mercy to none. But he is haunted by those who have fallen beneath his blade. Their ghostly shapes dog his footsteps, relentless in their torture to make him suffer for what he was put on this earth to do two thousand years ago. Saving his twin ensures Reign’s enslavement to the Goddess. She may own his body, but never his heart.  
Detective Alexis Lever’s career is in shambles. Her only chance at redemption is to discover what happened to the body of Daniel Nicolis. To do that she’ll have to thwart two men: Reign Nicolis and Roman Nicolis. Both belong in jail. But one has stolen her heart.


ETERNITY, Book 1
Cursed for 2000 years, Roman Nicolis has tracked his lovers’ soul through each reincarnation only to lose her horribly every time. Reclaiming their love is his only salvation. He’s been her friend, her father, her neighbor, but never again her lover . . . until now.
A late night walk home throws Stella Walker into the path of a killer. The last thing she remembers are the deep blue eyes of the man trying to kill her—and the first things she sees after a seven day coma are the same blue eyes in the handsome face of the man hired to protect her. Is he truly the owner of a security firm or the man who wants to finish her off? Is it fears she feels when Roman touches her or the memory of something sweeter?
Past secrets haunt them. An angry demon stalks them. 
Roman will do anything to recover what they once had. Though Stella’s ruined childhood has made her close her heart and body to any man, he must get past the walls around her to gain her love and trust, for it will take their union to defeat an unexpected enemy sent from the Egyptian Gods. A man Romans respects, and Stella trusts.
TWO HEARTS.ONE SOUL. FOR ALL ETERNITY.

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Series Spotlight & Giveaway: Gods of Love Series by Jennifer Lynne

Spotlight: Gods of Love Series 
by Jennifer Lynne

Genre: Erotic Romance

Immortal Seduction, Book 4 


Some seek love, some seek power. For Aphrodite, the two are permanently intertwined. And when the goddess of desire yearns for love, who among mortals could possibly resist her power?

Firefighters Ashur, Kieran and Hugh are damaged men. A tragedy that took the life of their colleague has left them scarred, both physically and emotionally. Love and power are nothing to them but empty words.

Hoping to reignite their mother’s passion for life and love, the erotes bring these mortal men to Aphrodite’s attention.

But with the blackness inside Ash, Kier and Hugh becoming ever deeper, will it take more than the power of a goddess to save them? And if she loses that battle, how will she rediscover the path to healing for her own emotionally damaged heart?

Warning: this erotic romance novella contains ménage (MFM and MFMM) sexual scenes between the goddess of desire and three hot fire fighters. It is suitable for Adult readers only.

Amazon (Kindle) | All Romance eBooks (EPUB, PDF & Kindle) | Smashwords (EPUB & PDF)


Before Immortal Seduction there was Gods of Love (Books 1-3), available either as individual eBooks or in a cost-saving series bundle (print or eBook)

Platinum Passion, Book 1
BEST BOOK OF 2011 Nominee in GLBT FANTASY ROMANCE at The Romance Reviews.

Platinum Passion is a 17,000 word erotic romance novella including menage a trois (MMF & MFM).

Three people. One erotic fantasy. And a twentieth wedding anniversary like no other.

Jeannie yearns for the return of passion in her marriage. Jake craves new excitement in the form of another man in a way that will not upset the balance of his marriage nor his undying love for his wife. Pothos, the god of sexual yearning, is one of the erotes and an aspect of Eros, the Olympian god of desire.

On the last night of winter this couple's distinctive yearning has called to Pothos, and by the power of the erotes, he intends to rekindle the flame of Jake and Jeannie's passion in a night of desire that will be the ultimate platinum anniversary gift.

And when the gods of love decide your marriage needs a boost, they never do it by halves.

Platinum Passion is the first in the Gods of Love series of stand-alone novellas that have the erotes as a common theme.

Amazon (Kindle) | All Romance ebooks (Kindle, EPUB or PDF) |Barnes & Noble (Nook)
Apple iTunes (for iPad, iPhone, iPod) | Diesel | Kobo |Sony



Aphrodite Calling, Book 2
A woman with a secret past

Thirty-two year old Gina is forced to confront her fears when she attends a high school reunion. Born into a male body, she spent her childhood and teen years living as a boy, and she has only now returned in an effort to put the past behind her so she can begin to live life without the continuing fear of loneliness and rejection.

A god of sexual desire on the edge of burnout

Himeros is one of the erotes, an aspect of Eros, and as such it is his duty to answer the call of sexual desire whenever a human needs him. But he has been living among humans too long and his energy has waned. When he decides to accept one last call he finds a woman who is unique. A woman who answers his own call and offers everything he desires. A woman who understands the whole human experience, from every perspective. Has he finally found the one with whom even a god of desire could find fulfillment  Forever, after all, is a long time to be alone.


Amazon (Kindle) | All Romance ebooks (Kindle, EPUB or PDF) | Barnes & Noble (Nook)
Apple itunes (for iPad, iPhone, iPod) | Diesel

Sex Club Secrets, Book 3
Sometimes love can flourish in the most unexpected places…

Ella is in love with her best friend Kade. But her love has not been returned, and when bisexual Kade shows no signs of becoming romantic towards her, she decides to call a halt on her unrequited love and accept an invitation to a celebrated sex club.

Kade is distressed when the woman he is beginning to see as more than a friend decides to visit Secrets before he can tell her how he feels. He follows her into the club and witnesses her at play with the enigmatic Anteros, a sexy god-like man who seems to know exactly how to satisfy her innermost cravings. But Anteros also feeds the hidden desires within Kade. How can he admit his feelings for Ella when he’s not sure he can commit with his whole heart?

Anteros is one of the erotes, an aspect of Eros and the ancient Greek god of requited and unrequited love. He has heard the call of these would-be lovers and intends to show them that friendship can sometimes be the best place to kick start a lasting romantic relationship.
But love cannot flourish unless it is returned, and how will he convince Kade – a man who occasionally enjoys other men – that he can be true to the woman he loves? What will happen to this couple when the night ends and they return to the real world outside the door of Secrets?

Has one of the gods of love finally taken on a challenge he cannot fulfill?

Amazon (Kindle) | All Romance ebooks (Kindle, EPUB or PDF) |  Barnes & Noble (Nook) 
Apple iTunes store (for iPad, iPhone, iPod) 

Gods of Love (Books 1-3) Series Bundle
Together for the first time in one collection, the first three novellas in the GODS OF LOVE series:

PLATINUM PASSION
APHRODITE CALLING
SEX CLUB SECRETS

The Greek gods of desire are skilled at satisfying the erotic needs of mortals who cross their path. But where do the gorgeous erotes turn for sexual healing when loneliness strikes at each eternal yet world-weary heart? Even the gods themselves are not immune from the influence of love.

Platinum Passion
A night of ménage a trois passion will change three lives forever. Jeannie and Jake's platinum anniversary becomes an unforgettable experience when Pothos, god of sexual yearning, steps in to save their twenty-year marriage.

Aphrodite Calling
A god of sexual desire on the edge of burnout meets a woman with a unique and secret past…In the arms of transsexual woman Gina, has Himeros finally discovered the one with whom even a god of love could find fulfillment?

Sex Club Secrets
Sometimes love can flourish in the most unexpected places. Ella and her bisexual friend Kade meet the erotic god Anteros in a celebrated sex club—but the challenges facing these potential friends-to-lovers could prove too much for the god of requited and unrequited love.

Buy the bundle in digital format

Buy the bundle in PRINT

About the Author:
Jennifer Lynne lives in Melbourne, Australia, and writes short contemporary erotic romance, mostly with paranormal/fantasy elements.

When she’s not writing what her family and friends call “porn for chicks” and what she prefers to call “super-hot romance for intelligent readers”, she is working in the admin day job, running around after two teenage daughters and trying to find time for her lovely new husband of one year.

Jennifer is published with Red Sage and Breathless Press. Over the past 18 months she has also embarked on an indie journey with the publication of her GODS OF LOVE romance series featuring erotic Greek gods and modern-day mortals in need of sexual healing.


Tour Giveaway Details: 
Jennifer is giving away a $15 Amazon GC and a swag pack including bookmark, Gods of Love cover flats, pen and a cute koala bear crystal charm for mobile phone to ONE lucky winner at the end of her tour:
Open Internationally 

Find Jennifer on the web at:

Monday, September 23, 2013

Book Review & Giveaway: Heavy Metal by Natalie J. Damschroder

Heavy Metal
Goddesses Rising

Book Two
Natalie J. Damschroder


Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
ISBN:  978-1622668908
Cover Artist: Liz Pelletier


Book Description:
The world is not what Riley Kordek imagined. On the run from those who’ve targeted her, all Riley wants is a chance to figure out her new ability to bend metal’s energy. When a hot guy who knows more than he should helps her escape her attackers, she thinks she might’ve found someone who can lead her to the answers she needs.
Three years ago, Sam Remington walked away from his employer and the woman he loved, and now, all he’s looking to do is fill the gaping hole left behind. Except, when Sam takes Riley to the Society for Goddess Education and Defense, the stakes rise beyond what either of them could have imagined.
After being alone for so long, falling for Sam would be far too easy—and far too painful, once his old flame calls needing his help. Worse, Riley uncovers a plot with disastrous ramifications not only for herself, but for Sam and the people he loves—and potentially every goddess in the country.


Our Review:

Great writing, great story! What more can you ask for? Heavy Metal grabs you right from the start – and in a way I had not anticipated – and keeps you turning the pages right through to a very satisfying end.
Pursued by unknown people determined to turn her life upside down, Riley Kordek has only recently discovered she is a goddess, but has no one she can trust to ask about the meaning of it all. Except, perhaps, for Sam Remington, a lowly barkeep, perhaps, but also a man with the knowledge she needs. Can he help her? Will he help her? Or will he be just another false hope to add to the disaster that has become her life? He is affiliated with a group she has been warned to avoid, but she’s at the end of her rope and has to reach out to someone, anyone, even if they prove false.
Riley may not have all the knowledge she needs, but she’s no wimp, and doesn't hesitate, in the face of evil, to wield what power she has. I enjoyed her strength of character, her determination, and her willingness to kick butt. She had me cheering her on from page one, and Sam’s inner strength and desire to help others, even while he suffers, makes him a hero to respect and admire.
I look forward to the continuation of Ms. Damschroder’s Goddesses Rising series. Well done.
-Cary Morgan Frates



Tour Wide Giveaway:

1-$25 Amazon or B&N gift card (winner’s choice) plus print or digital copy of Under the Moon; 

2- winner’s choice- print or digital copies of Under the Moon


About the Author:
Natalie J. Damschroder is an award-winning author of contemporary and paranormal romance—Love with a Shot of Adrenaline. She sold her first book in 1999, and 2013 will see the publication of her 14th novel. She grew up in Massachusetts and loves the New England Patriots more than anything. (Except her family. And writing and reading. And popcorn.)
When she's not writing, revising, proofreading, or promoting her work, she does freelance editing and works part time as a chiropractic assistant. She and her husband have two daughters she's dubbed "the anti-teenagers," one of whom is also a novelist. (The other one prefers math. Smart kid. Practical.)

To contact Natalie:

Friday, September 20, 2013

Book Review & Interview: Heaven and Hellsbane by Paige Cuccaro

Heaven and Hellsbane
Hellsbane Series, Book Two
by Paige Cuccaro


Genre: Urban Fantasy
Publisher: Entangled Publishing


Our Review:
As the second full novel in the series, Heaven and Hellsbane continues the story of Emma Jane Hellsbane, and her wannabe-lover, Eli. And that’s where the simplicity ends. In this very complicated world of illorum and angles, demons, magisters and gibborim, a novice reader in this world could easily get lost among the varied relationships and histories. However, Ms. Cuccaro does a good job keeping everything straight and clear in the reader’s mind.
The story is fast-paced, and the author creates vivid imagery and action with her words. The only points of dissatisfaction I had were not with the writing, per se, but with the author’s tendency to over play certain moments, such as too much introspection by the heroine, Emma Jane, when she is in full battle mode, or Emma’s very persistent stomach woes when looking at something gross. In both cases Emma is used to fighting and the inevitable gory outcome, so why the hesitation and bile every time?

That being said, those two points are by no means show stoppers. This is a solid and exciting read and puts the other books in the series, Commencement (prequel novella), Hellsbane, and From Here to Eternity on my list of “must reads”. Well done.  -Cary Morgan Frates

Our Interview with Paige:
We are delighted to have Paige Cuccaro with us today to give us a little insight into her life and the things that make her tick.
Paige, where are you from and from where/who did your love for writing come from?
I’m from Pennsylvania originally. A tiny little town that was named for its stop on the Pony Express—Eighty Four PA. My family is pretty creative, both parents. My mother was a music teacher and my Dad was a draftsmen and a really good artist. I’m the only one who took their creative side in the direction of writing.

Can you say that your journey to publication was difficult? If so, what were the hardest moments to get through?
I don’t know if it was difficult, but it was long…I’m still on it. The hardest moments were getting those rejection letters. It’s hard to keep going when you get a letter every other day saying, “Nope. No thanks. Not what we’re looking for.” And of course, my insecurities read through the lines and saw, “No WAY do we want you. You write like a fifth grader. Why do you keep bothering us?” It took a long time to STOP letting my paranoia see something in the words that wasn’t there. I had to learn to read ONLY what it said, not what I thought they might mean by it.
Editors are very busy people. They don’t have time to play word games. They write what they mean. There’s no mystery to decipher. If they say, it wasn’t what they were looking for, then…it wasn’t what they were looking for. That’s it. And if an editor says, “If you have something else I’d be happy to look at it,” or, “Feel free to submit something else…” THEY MEAN IT. They’re not going to beg you, but there’s really no clearer way for them to ask for more from you. They’re not just being nice. They don’t have that kind of time. If you get that kind of rejection letter…send something else! They’re waiting! I can’t tell you how many opportunities I missed because I thought they were just being nice. Ugh…
The easiest way to get through it is to start writing the next thing. It’s so much easier to put that rejection letter to the side when you can tell yourself, “Okay, they didn’t like that one, but they’re gonna LOVE this one…” Then keep on writing!

How do you overcome i-suck-at this, that little voice in your head that tells you your writing isn’t good enough?
I don’t know. I still get that feeling from time to time. Before I was published, I told myself that if I was right, and I do suck, I’ll just keep writing, keep learning until I don’t suck anymore. I entered contests and got outside validation that way. And once I was published I could look at those books and say…somebody thinks I don’t suck. That feeling is just part of being a writer. We put our hearts on the page and then send it out to be read/judged. It’s easier to believe the bad stuff than the good, so one rejection, one bad review can make you doubt everything. You just have to shrug and tell yourself, even if it is total crap, I’m writing it anyway because I want to write it. In the end that’s really why we all write, isn’t it? Because we like to do it. So…do it. Whether you actually suck or not…doesn’t really matter.

What is your dream vacation?
A yearlong tour of Europe.

Describe your writing style in five words.
Brainstorm, Plot, write, re-plot, write.

What movies are you currently excited to see?
Enders Game, Thor, The Hunger Games, The Hobbit… Should I keep going? I <3 movies!

What are you currently reading?
Affliction, by Laurell K. Hamilton.

If you weren’t a writer, what other careers would you pursue?
I would’ve loved to have been a psychologist. I wanted to major in psychology when I first went to college, but the counselor talked me out of it. He said I’d never find work, but I think that’s because he couldn’t imagine anyone wanting to have some of the jobs that a psych degree would get you. I could. I should’ve ignored him and done what I wanted. But…then I wouldn’t have started writing.

If you could create a holiday of your own, what would it be called?
Un-holiday. A nationally recognized day where absolutely nothing is expected of you. No gifts. No special meals. No “traditional” events to be attended or preformed. Just a day off…from everything…with pay.  

For people who haven’t read your novel, how would you summarize the plot?
Emma Jane Hellsbane was born different, the child of Fallen angel and human—the child of sin. But Heaven has a way for her to make amends for her birth. Like others born of Fallen angels, she’ll work as their bounty hunter, rounding up the Fallen and banishing them to the abyss. The trouble is, the Fallen won’t go quietly and Emma won’t be done until she finds the one Fallen angel who created her.

What are two of your pet-peeves?
People who sit at green lights admiring the pretty color. It’s green folks. GO!

To you, what makes a good story?
Interesting realistically flawed characters who have clear goals. I like action, less introspection. And a slow burning love story where I’m as excited for the characters to finally come together as they are.

What usually turns you off about a story?
Whiny heroines. Or heroines who absolutely every male that comes in contact with them falls head over heels for them. And it drives me crazy when I read a book that promises something, a romance, or a goal and then doesn’t deliver it. That’s false advertisement. Tear jerker, lost love stories sold as a romance. – Turn off! Hot steamy—sex on every other page—book billed as an urban fantasy. – Turn off! I like tear jerkers and erotic romance, I just think an author should deliver what the genre promises.

If you could collaborate with any author, who would you choose, and why?
Anne Rice! That would be sooo awesome! I just love the way she writes and I’d love to work with her in hopes that a little of that talent would rub off onto me. LOL
Also, Jim Butcher. For much of the same reason, but also because he’s got a more current voice and a more male view point on the world. He’s got an amazing imagination and it would be such fun to be a part of that!

What is on your night stand?
A Boba fett alarm clock. A lamp with a built in nightlight. Box of tissues. A drink coaster and lotion.


What is your favorite book?
Interview with a Vampire, by Anne Rice.

Thank you, Paige! 

Amazon | BN 

For More from the Author:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Blog

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Author Interview & Giveaway: Victoria Danaa author of Gathering Storm

Gathering Storm
The Order of the Black Swan
Book Five
Victoria Danann

               
Genre: Paranormal Romance

Publisher: 7th House   

ISBN: 978-1-933320-93-9
ASIN:

Number of pages: 320
Word Count: 85k

Cover Artist: Victoria Danann

Book Description:

The fifth installment in the Black Swan serial saga. READING IN ORDER STRONGLY RECOMMENDED. That’s why we have a try-before-you-buy-program. The first book in the saga, My Familiar Stranger, is PermaFREE everywhere.

THE NEWSLETTER: Z Team, a.k.a Zed Company, is transferred to Jefferson Unit, which is being temporarily retired as an active hunter facility and converted to a research / training institution. Sol takes his first vacation – ever – leaving Glen in charge with Storm supervising. Rosie is proving to be an extraordinary little girl and Deliverance is in BIG trouble with her mother.

THE SURPRISES: Storm is really not himself. Former members of B Team must reunite to preserve his image and reputation.  No one could have prepared for the surprises Rosie delivers.

THE ADVENTURE: The Ralengclan send a second wave assassination team to Jefferson Unit at the worst possible time, when it’s been left defended by only Z Team, Glen, the Lady Laiken and the trainees.

Our Interview with Victoria Danann:
Welcome Victoria, and thanks for taking the time to interview with us. We are looking forward to discovering a little bit about you.

Where are you from and from where/who did your love for writing come from?
I was born in Austin, Texas. Sixth generation. Where does writing come from? For all I know I 
brought it forward from another lifetime.

Can you say that your journey to publication was difficult? If so, what were the hardest 
moments to get through?
I owned a small publishing company for almost fifteen years, specializing in New Age books, 
calendars, sidelines. It didn’t take long for me to realize that I didn’t have time or patience for 
traditional publishing, so I published through my own company. So, no, it wasn’t difficult. 

How do you overcome i-suck-at this, that little voice in your head that tells you your writing 
isn’t good enough?
This may sound bad, but I’ve never experienced that. 

What is your dream vacation?
I would like to take one of those repositioning cruises where you’re at sea for about ten days with 
nothing to do but eat, sleep, look at the water, and write.

Describe your writing style in five words.
I’m sorry. I’ve never had a class on writing so I don’t know what you’re looking for. I would 
have to just repeat the word “mine” five times.

What movies are you currently excited to see?
I’ve been so busy with books and music, I haven’t paid attention.

What are you currently reading?
Sweet Dreams, Kristen Ashley

If you weren’t a writer, what other careers would you pursue?
I’ve already had lives in airlines, as an evening wear designer, and a Classic Rock musician. I 
think this is the last stop.

If you could create a holiday of your own, what would it be called?
Men have to do all the planning, shopping, decorating, cooking, and cleaning up Winter Solstice 
celebration.

For people who haven’t read your novel, how would you summarize the plot?
This is the fifth installment in a serial saga that must be read in order to be understood and 
appreciated. The short version blurb is this. Storm is REALLY not himself. B Team must reunite 
to try and preserve his reputation. Jefferson Unit is left defended by a skeleton crew when 
Ralengclan renew their assassination mission. This book explores an age old questions. Do you 
believe in destiny? Do you think any part of it is predetermined by fate?

What are two of your pet-peeves?
1. People who wait until their groceries are completely bagged and then start fishing in their 
purse or pocket for a paper checkbook. 
2. Books that pass themselves off as novels and give no indication of a cliff hanger until 
you’re, well, left hanging on the last page. 

To you, what makes a good story?
Was I emotionally engaged? Do I care about the characters? Am I satisfied with the outcome?

What usually turns you off about a story?
Phrases that get repeated too often. Example. I fell in love with a New Adult trilogy that shall go 
unnamed. Loved everything about it except the fact that all the characters “smacked” each other. 
The smacking could mean anything from a love pat to a black eye. I’m coming from a culture 
wherein I don’t smack and am not smacked – with the possible exception of Slug Bug. In these 
books there was so much smacking going on that I had my Kindle count at one point. It was 
something like 93 mentions in the first book, 60 odd occurrences in the second book, and I don’t 
recall the third. The reason why it irritated was because it reached the point where each mention 
of smacking took me out of the story temporarily.

If you could collaborate with any author, who would you choose, and why?
Without hesitation, Stephen King. Always wanted to meet him. Call me Uncle Stevie.

What is on your night stand? 
TV that never gets turned on unless I’m sick, a lamp, and a Kindle Fire.

What is your favorite book?
Memnock the Devil, Anne Rice.    

Thank you, Victoria.! Great Interview.  Everyone, be sure to check out Victoria's giveaway and the bottom of the page!          


About the Author:
If you're looking for something new and different in PNR, you've come to the right place.
I write unapologetic romances with uniquely fresh perspectives on paranormal creatures, characters, and themes. Add a dash of scifi and a flourish of fantasy to enough humor to make you laugh out loud and enough steam to make you squirm in your chair. My heroines are independent femmes with flaws and minds of their own whether they are aliens, witches, demonologists, psychics, or past life therapists. My heroes are hot and hunky, but they also have brains, character, and good manners - usually - whether they be elves, demons, berserkers, werewolves, or vampires.
My first book, My Familiar Stranger, was nominated for Best Paranormal Romance of 2012 by the Reviewers' Choice  and Readers’ Choice Awards. Each of my books has remained on the Amazon best seller list in category every day since release. All four also earned the Night Owl Reviews TOP PICK award and have remained on the Amazon Best Sellers list every day since release.
My work has been compared to J R Ward, Karen Marie Moning, Sherrilyn Kenyon, and Lara Adrian. For example:
"I do see shades of Lara Adrian's Breed books and shades of J R Wards Black Dagger books, but this story is unique enough that it stands out all on its own and can stand up along side those other books and I think given time will elbow them out of the way with the rich story telling and deep emotional core that makes you want to know more." - Kerry, Musings of a Bookworm
The Order of the Black Swan is a series that is also a serial saga. Each book is an episodic installment in an ongoing story. Join me for the adventure.


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Tour Giveaways:



Every tour stop: one e-copy of The Order of the Black Swan Collected Tales, Books 1-3.
Tour wide: One entire set of signed paperbacks, Books 1-5.



Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Author Interview & Giveaway: See How She Runs by Michelle Graves

See How She Runs
by Michelle Graves

Series:  Chronicles of Izzy, Book 1
Genre:  Paranormal Romance/Urban Fiction

About the Book:
One delivery changed her whole life. Izzy was a normal girl living in Chicago as a bike messenger before that fateful day. She delivered one package and set into action a chain of events she never could have expected.

Now she is running for her life from the Corporation, her best friend is not at all who he seemed, and to top it all off she keeps having visions.

Will she survive to navigate the waters as a Seer? Will her feelings for Kennan be her very downfall? Find out in See How She Runs.

Our Interview with the Author:
Michelle, welcome to Paranormal Romance Fans for Life. You have an exciting new book out, and we're delighted you've offered to take some time out of your schedule to tell us a little bit about yourself. So, here goes.

Where are you from and from where/who did your love for writing come from? 
MG:  Oh, goodness, this is a hard one to answer.  My dad was in the military when I was young so I have lived all over the place.  From Germany to Tennessee.  I guess I claim the south as my home, because I have lived most of my life in either Tennessee or Georgia. 
As to my love of writing, well I think that has always been there.  As a child, I would create alternate worlds to play in.  As a teenager, I dealt with my angst by writing poetry.  As an adult, well I escape into books.  I think the next logical step for me was to start writing stories, and now I can’t seem to stop.

Can you say that your journey to publication was difficult? If so, what were the hardest moments to get through?
MG:  My journey was frightfully easy.  I feel like all of the stars aligned perfectly to make my experience wonderful.  I am blessed to have the knowledge of other indie authors to make my path a little less rocky.  Plus, both my cover artist and editor were both super easy to find.  (I love them both btw, they make the headaches more manageable).
As to the hardest moment, I think that is just putting myself out there.  It is a terrifying thing to throw something out to the public that is so close to me.  These characters are a huge part of me.  As someone who wears their heart on their sleeve, it is incredibly hard for me to separate someone not liking my book from someone not liking me.  So getting in that mindset that not everyone will love my book has been an interesting experience.

How do you overcome i-suck-at-this, that little voice in your head that tells you your writing isn’t good enough?
MG:  I have amazing friends and beta readers that are brutally honest with me.  So, I know that I will never be able to put something out into the world that is terrible.  They won’t let me.  But as to the voice, that nay sayer that lives within us all, I tell it to shut it.  I am pretty hard on myself, so I know I would never be able to put something out that I, myself, did not absolutely love.  That is not to say that I don’t look back and see all of the things I could improve upon.  I know I am not perfect by any means, but I know that it takes experience to grow.  I am going to make mistakes, and I will learn from them and move forward.  (i.e. my lack of contractions in the dialogue of the first book.  It did not even dawn on me that the dialogue seemed formal and it is something I have adjusted in the second book.)

What is your dream vacation?
MG:  Ireland.  Out of everywhere in the world, that is on the top of my bucket list.  I would love to go and explore the little fishing villages, search for fairies, and stomp around the old cobble stone streets.

Describe your writing style in five words.
MG:  Possessed by the characters.

What movies are you currently excited to see?
MG:  I don’t get to watch many grown-up movies these days.  I tend to only be able to watch them once they come out on video.  So, the new Star Trek has me really excited.  Oh, and City of Bones.  I can’t wait to see that one.

What are you currently reading?
MG:  I am currently writing, which makes it hard for me to read.  My characters tend to be quite demanding on my time.  I do have several books on my TBR list though.  I.E. the new R.L. Naquin book and the upcoming Penny Reid novel.  I can’t wait to get my hands on either of those!

If you weren’t a writer, what other careers would you pursue?
MG:  I love to bake, so perhaps working at a cake store.  But honestly, my favorite thing in the world is being a mom.  I love being able to stay at home with my daughter and watch her grow and learn new things each day.  With my husband being an Army Infantryman and gone quite a bit, it is wonderful to be able to be home with her and give her a sense of stability. 

If you could create a holiday of your own, what would it be called?
MG:  Hmmm, it would have to be something in the summer months.  And honestly, it would probably be a holiday involving Christmas decorations.  I am obsessed with Christmas (I have three trees).  So maybe Summas?  Summer Christmas?  Hmmm….. 

For people who haven’t read your novel, how would you summarize the plot?
MG:  See How She Runs is about Izzy figuring out who she really is.  Izzy has grown up thinking her life was something it isn’t.  She is thrown into a world she never knew existed, finds out she is a Seer, and most of all that her best friend is not at all who he seems.  She is forced to quickly come to grips with her new life while trying to avoid being captured by the Corporation.  So, not only is she trying to cope with her new abilities, she is also trying to avoid being captured by the evil Corporation.  They wish to use her abilities to gain profit.  Ultimately, the story is about Izzy becoming who she is meant to be, even if it means facing the things she fears the most.

What are two of your pet-peeves?
MG:  Bullying is the biggest one.  I will never understand why anyone would want to cut another person down to build themselves up.  Personally, I would rather live my life building other people up. 
The second one would be dishonesty.  I would so much rather someone tell me the truth, even if it may hurt my feelings.  I know we all tell white lies, but I am talking about the big stuff.  I would rather know the truth.  Without it, I can’t fix a problem or grow as a person.

To you, what makes a good story?
MG:  Relatable emotions, strong characters, and a brilliant romance.  I am also a sucker for a happy ending. 
 
What usually turns you off about a story?
MG:  I love a strong female character.  So, when I read a story where the heroine is a simpering female dependent upon everyone else to solve her own problems, it drives me batty.  Ever since I had my daughter, I have had zero tolerance for female characters like this.  I want my daughter to grow up to be a strong woman who knows how to fight for herself.

If you could collaborate with any author, who would you choose, and why?
MG:  Molly Harper.  I absolutely adore her.  She is hilarious and she knows how to mix humor with serious situations.  I love the balance of her stories.  Honestly, I have a huge author crush on her.  She is just plain brilliant!

What is on your night stand?
MG:  Not much right now, we are in the process of moving from Washington to Georgia.  Most of my stuff is in boxes at the moment.  But normally it is my kindle and a lamp.

What is your favorite book?
MG:  Really?  I have to pick just one?  Because I am pretty sure that is impossible! Hmm, well I love the Jane Jameson series by Molly Harper.  My favorite fantasy novel at the moment is The Girl of Fire and Thorns.  

Thank you so much for doing this interview with us, Michelle. Good luck and great sales with See How She Runs.

Amazon | BN

TOUR GIVEAWAY DETAILS:
Michelle is giving away the following prizes at the end of her tour:
GRAND PRIZE:    $25 Amazon Giftcard
RUNNERS-UP:  THREE (3) runners-up will each receive an eBook of SEE HOW SHE RUNS 
a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Author:
Michelle Graves is a self-proclaimed nomad, moving every two to three years with her husband the Army man, her beautiful daughter, and a fat tailless cat named Torri. When she is not writing away trying to purge her mind of yapping characters she can be found entertaining her daughter, attempting to craft (whilst trying not to injure herself with the glue gun), baking yummy treats, or reading. She admits to having a restless spirit and forces her family to go out on adventures whenever possible. They
lovingly play along.

Author Contacts:
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