Beck Sherman Guest post

We're joined today by author Beck Sherman! He's given us a list of 200 fears.



THE FEAR LIST (200 FEARS)
 Clowns, closed spaces, bugs, darkness, love, hate, rejection, failure, success, water, drowning, death, life, people, loneliness, heights, spiders, sprinting zombies, highways, escalators, everything, the Devil, God, boredom, public speaking, parasites, needles, getting old, losing control, sharks, disease, the unknown, bees, nuclear disaster, demons, nuns, intruders, the future, the past, children, the elderly, dolls, missed opportunity, monsters, flying, falling, strangers, basements, attics, going blind, losing the mind, tornadoes, fire, snakes, dogs, werewolves, sleep, insomnia, chainsaws, piranhas, sex, blood, poverty, night, day, pain, space, aliens, bombs, guns, weakness, bullies, crowds, fighting, police, vampires, garlic, church, crosses, possession, ghosts, the afterlife, no afterlife, black holes, getting lost, Appalachian folk, frigid cold, bats, mutants, radiation, dentists, boys, girls, peers, bosses, growing up, responsibility, under the bed, the closet, coming out, the woods, cornfields, suffocation, evil, crows, the homeless, serial killers, elevators, roller coasters, being buried alive, caves, running out of time, competition, losing, black cats, witches, bitches, heartbreak, the end of the world, cockroaches, bites, others’ expectations, night swimming, nudity, nail guns, bed bugs, antiques, germs, tunnels, robots, gremlins, masks, revelations, what’s underneath, cancer, organ thieves, scorpions in shoes, sinkholes, roofies, rape, Blacks, Whites, Asians, Hispanics, foreigners, germs, brain-eating amoeba, crocodiles, car accidents, paralyzation, the government, peeping toms, satellites, meteors, heaven, hell, sin, fanatics, choice, no choice, noise, open spaces, gravity, dancing, cemeteries, worms, slime, dead things, hospitals, wax statues, perfection, imperfection, beauty, ugliness, ridicule, razorblades, fog, puppets, numbers, 13, machines, change, thunder, fighting, forgetting, shadows, crossing bridges, rats, choking, moths, touch, torture, the Bogeyman, locked doors, unlocked doors, surprises, ghouls, goblins, Halloween, fear itself.









FOR THREE DAYS, IT WAS DARK. News reporters scrambled. This was the biggest story to come along in weeks. They called it a blackout. The last one was in New York City in 2003, but this one was different, special, because the grids in six major cities across the country had been fried, kaput, see-you-next-Sunday. Everyone with some jurisdiction blamed each other, and when there was no one left to blame, terrorism rode in on its gallant steed. It was the media’s fault. They were so busy stuffing fanatical Muslims with a penchant for Allah and decapitations down the American citizen’s throat, that they never saw it coming. I guess I shouldn’t be too hard on them. They were partially right. It was terror after all, but a whole new kind. And when the lights came back on, things had changed. The dark had brought us visitors. Kindle / Paperback Follow on Blog / Facebook - Author - Book / Twitter / Goodreads

A Diary's House Review

A Diary’s House is about adventure, lost love, and the hope that dreams, even those in the final years of life, can at last prevail. It is of a young boy’s attempt to become a man, the once-lost secrets of a diary, a sweeping romance which transcends time and place. It is more than a boy’s journey into manhood, but the mysteries of so many lives unknowingly intertwined, now brought together in a climatic ending; all from the engrossing world embedded in a forgotten diary; a diary of a woman.
 Born in the vast and looming mountains of North Carolina during the 1870’s, Landon Hampshire always remembered the folklore and legendary tales his father told him during his early childhood; about the people of the Kituhwa (Cherokee) and the birth of this tribal nation – an enchanting story he could never forget. Incorporating the aid of an eccentric old French trapper (old man Montague), Landon and his friends set out on an adventure, their initial intention is to discover treasure and become men. But what Landon will eventually come to discover is more than he ever bargained for.
 Landon didn't realize his boyhood adventure would yield the incredible journey he ultimately experiences - going down the mysterious and mystical Randola River. At the base of the river is an island even more mysterious than the Randola itself.
 The island releases many of its mysterious, yet even many more are created when Landon discovers, on the island, a diary of a young woman who lived forty years prior during the 1830’s (Trail of Tears). The diary entries are hopeful, though haunting. It reveals, in intimate detail, the life and dreams of this very special young girl who is turning into a woman of beauty and adventure, her love for a Cherokee boy, and the trials she will ultimately face. Her story unfolds through the reading of her diary, and Landon suddenly finds himself caught up in a sweeping, empowering world of re-invention and ultimate redemption.


C. David Murphy I am a writer; first and foremost. Anyone who reads my works will instantly know this. I have found no greater joy on this earth than to be close to God and nature; exploring the serenity of landscapes, waterfalls, epic mountains, meadows and grasslands. To sit on those spots of earth and write to where my imagination will take me yields a tremendous amount of peace and serenity.. To create characters with true and genuine emotions, feel their heartbeat thru every word I write; their trails, their hopes and ambitions; to breathe life into their eyes and see their soul become one with me and the reader is absolutely amazing. I simply love to create on that venue and canvas; to affect change in the lives of others. It is my hope, when someone picks up my stories and reads the full weight of them, that somehow I have affected change in their lives, brought them to places they could never have imagined before, and moved them to believe in humanity again – to go out into the world and create ‘goodwill towards all’. The Diary’s House is C David Murphy’s first digitally published novel. He is also the author of two Shakespearean-style genre plays In the Years of the Ages and Hildengrass. He is currently finalizing his next novel, When Tomorrow Never Comes and The Chronicles of Good and Evil – Dracula’s Lair / The Darkest Tower, both due out later this year. Also, the sequel to A Diary’s House is in the works – The Long Journey Home due out the first part of 2013. Follow Blog / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads Buy Amazon /Barnes & Noble /Smashwords / Kobo


Jaime and Carrie's thoughts:


A Diary House Where True Love Endures by C. David Murphy is the story of a boy from the 1870's who goes out to use his Cherokee history taught by his father to find treasure. He goes on a treasure hunt with his friends and yes they do come across some not so friendly people on their excursion. Landon comes across a diary from as previously mentioned from a young woman 30 years prior to his time. His sister catches him and together they read this diary and experience the life of her. I must admit that although it was written well and the story was well thought out it was a bit drawn out. Other than that I thought Mr. Murphy did a good job of creating a world that is new and unknown to me. 3.75 stars
 ~Jaime


I have to say, after reading the dedication; it was difficult for me to pick up this book. My heart hurt for the Author. I found this book to be very descriptive and detailed. Almost as if the details were as important as the storyline. As for the storyline, I enjoyed it. The way he mixed in Cherokee lore with historical fiction really was great. The way he told of the boy becoming a man and the intensity and mixture of plots was interesting. On the whole, once I got started, it was fun to read. I felt it was a story influenced by Mark Twain and Robert Louis Stevenson with a great love story and background for the set up. It was a bit long, but I feel it was due to the written attention to detail. If you enjoy historical adventure and romance, this will be the book for you. When all is said and done, I give it 4 stars.
 ~Carrie

UnGuarded

Guardian angel Selene was so close to becoming an archangel—the supreme of all beings—until she fell in love with Cole, a forbidden dark one. Once she discovers her vampire lover has been kidnapped and the only way to save him is by abandoning her number one priority—Caitlyn, her human charge—there really is only one answer in Selene’s mind, even though leaving Caitlyn unguarded will most likely cause Selene to fall from grace. But her choice to save Cole doesn’t come without a price…and now Selene is racing against time to not only save her dark lover, but find a way to keep Caitlyn alive as well. With the help of a new vampire ally, Luke, Selene will push her diminishing angel abilities to the point where her very existence lies in the balance. Now threatened with the chance of becoming a fallen angel or even dying, Selene can only pray she’ll have enough time—and good grace—to save the ones she loves Buy on Kindle / Paperback Ashley Robertson resides in sunny Orlando, Florida and loves reading and writing about everything urban fantasy and paranormal romance. When she isn’t writing you’ll find her spending time with family and friends, training in her home gym, traveling and exploring new places, drinking fine red wines, and making gourmet coffees with her Nespresso machine.   Follow Ashley Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Blog Tour starts October 29 The author is giving away 3 paperback swag packs with $10 Amazon Giftcards a Rafflecopter giveaway

Xianne: A Comedy of Cultures

In the 24th Century...Jane Austen, Robert A. Heinlein, Sophia Loren, and the Texas/Arkansas 1969 Shootout...all have one thing in common: Captain Tom Duncan's interplanetary freighter, XIANNE....



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Lisa's thoughts:

The author created his vision of the future in a very provocative way with the use of comedy and sexuality. The author uses a mixer of spice in developing the characters. Keeping you engaged to continue the story one page at a time but forces you to continue. Its very similar to the Love Boat with more jumping and sexual escapades. A swingers paradise in space. But that is only one layer that develops into an underlying story hidden beneath the many layers. This was the debut book for the author and it would nice to see how it develops in the future. Good book for a lazy afternoon.

A Political Affair

We are joined today by author Mary Whitney. She's going to talk to give us a bit of a peek into her mind:)

American political debates show the worst and best of our politics. Mud flies striking each candidate in the face, and sometimes a zinger which was meant for the other side ends up being friendly fire. Occasionally, the debate is substantive so we can actually learn a thing or two. And sometimes we get insight into the candidates’ character.
 The scene that I always like to see at every debate is at the end, when the families come on stage. It’s a testament to the fact that no one is going to be able to climb the political ladder alone. Families give a candidate emotional support, strategic advice, and always a nice photo-op.
 This is why in writing A Political Affair I wanted to turn the tables on the cliché story of a typical politician and intern scandal. That’s the common, sad tale, where the young, female intern is pilloried, while the politician dumps her and begs for forgiveness with his family awkwardly at his side.
 Shouldn’t there be another story to tell? What if the politician was single and likable, despite a few self-defeating flaws? What if the intern was respectable and from a good family? And what if the politician’s own family was so emotionally close and so politically shrewd that they would do anything to defend each other and defend their family’s legacy? Could he be reelected? But more importantly, should be reelected?
 I hope I’ve drawn a story that plays that out, while poking fun at the political world. After all, making fun of politicians is always good time, and frankly, they deserve it. For the last year, we’ve all had too many dinners interrupted by annoying phone calls and had to watch too many ridiculous campaign commercials. They deserve a little ribbing.
 A Political Affair is due out on October 18. In the meantime, you can check out my novella, A Very Important Guest, currently on Amazon. Set in Hawaii, with a junior congressman and young woman who is fighting to get by, it’s a sweet romance for those who like chick-lit or contemporary adult. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on all of my political romance with a twist. Mary Whitney
 http://wordymary.com/
 http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5165049.Mary_Whitney
 http://www.amazon.com/A-Political-Affair-ebook/dp/B009RXBM8U
 http://www.amazon.com/Very-Important-Guest-Novella-ebook/dp/B009H68DRK

Maui Widow Waltz

Maui Widow Waltz

Even "death do us part" couldn't spoil her wedding day plans... Wedding planner Pali Moon is thrilled when a would-be bride shows up at "Let's Get Maui'd" inquiring about a lavish beach wedding. That is, until she learns it must be on Valentine's Day, just nine days away. Oh yeah,and one other little hitch: the groom disappeared at sea a week earlier. But the bride's convinced he'll be found safe and sound, so she's got a plan--and a man--to do a proxy ceremony if necessary. The day before the big nuptials a man's body washes ashore on a South Maui beach. Has the groom finally shown up? If so, what's it going to be--a wedding...or a funeral? This is the FIRST book in the "Islands of Aloha Mystery Series".

Author JoAnn Bassett

JoAnn Bassett grew up in Seattle, but always preferred palm trees to pine trees. She owned a firefighter training business and raised a son, always hoping to someday make a day at the beach an everyday reality. In 1996, she and her husband bought a home on Maui and made the dream come true. Purchase on Amazon. Follow the author on: Website | Facebook | Twitter The author is giving away an Islands of Aloha Gift Box, with signed print copies of the first three books in the "Islands of Aloha Mystery Series" along with great Hawaiian goodies such as Kona-style coffee, special tropical tea, yummy bath products with paradise scents. It's like a quick trip to Hawaii--without the annoying TSA pat-down! Open to US/ Can Residents 18+. Ends November 4. Fill out the for below to Enter a Rafflecopter giveaway

Halloween Giveaway!

We're doing a super fun giveaway for Halloween!! We have some awesome books up for grabs.

Once Upon a Midnight Dreary is a collection of seven short stories with a spooky edge.
 Carnival of Darkness by Stephanie Nelson (Author of the Gwen Sparks & Anna Avery series)
 Andee Baker met the man of her dreams and then made a complete fool out of herself. She thought she would never see him again until her best friend, Claire, got an invitation for both of them to attend the Carnival of Darkness from the guy Andee couldn’t stop thinking about. They jump at the opportunity to go, but even before Andee crosses the entrance, she realizes there's something peculiar about the carnival. The ticket master's red eyes and the waltzing ghost are anything but cheesy special effects. Andee discovers at the Carnival of Darkness not everything is as it seems.
 Machado by Lola James (Author of the Spellbound & Fate series)
 A weekend of fun, romance, and ghost stories at abeautiful beachside hotel was the plan. But Mackenzie had a bad feeling about the trip since the moment her husband and friends brought it up. The Machado Inn was a place where legends came to life and the past roamed the hallways. Guests came to stay the night, but few made it out alive.
 The Visitor by Liz Schulte (Author of the Guardian Trilogy and Dark Corners)
 Reverend Black hated storms. Rumbles from the Heavens promised violence and retribution this night, but he could only watch as the blackness descended. The tempest did not come alone. A visitor walked before it—patient and silent. The torrential downpour would wash away the mask, the gales would tear away carefully constructed lies, and the flashes of light would expose the truth—a truth that wouldn’t set him free. Miss Stake by C.G. Powell (Author of the No Uncertain Logic series)
Alligators, snakes, and old boyfriends...Oh my. The swamp is a dangerous place, but it’s nothing Veronica can’t handle. That is until a weekend in the marshes brings to light a whole new set of dangers. Now that the supernatural cat is out of the bag, Veronica’s life will never be the same.
 Dark Road Winding by Olivia Hardin (Author of the Bend-Bite-Shift Trilogy)
Johana Hall has her hands full juggling personal life and her public relations career in Washington DC. The last thing she needs is to get called back to Texas because her Grandpa H.M. believes he’s being haunted. Adult Protective Services wants to put the elderly ex-con in a nursing home, but mysterious happenings at the homestead convince Johana he isn’t as crazy as everyone thinks. Getting to the bottom of the local legend is the least of her worries when she realizes someone is willing to go to any means to get her grandpa off Sara Jane Road. Can she figure things out before it’s too late?
 Redeemed by Mandie Stevens
 Eva never claimed to be a good guardian angel, but she tries. After losing two charges, the Powers That Be have begun to doubt her abilities. To redeem herself, Eva sets out to rescue Elsie, granddaughter of the former king of the Fae. A Demon has kidnapped Elsie to complete an ancient ritual that will allow them to slip through the veil between Earth and Hell on Halloween. With unlikely friends in tow—a human liaison, a fallen angel, and a powerful yet distractingly charming vampire—Eva is in a race against time. Save Elsie, save the world—and her job.
 Vicis by Cait Lavender (Author of the Lupine Moon Series)
 Raised captive by a powerful corporation named Vicis, life inside the facility was all 56 knew until she met Adam. When she's slated to be euthanized, no longer considered a valuable asset for the company, she takes her life into her own hands. With her considerable abilities and Adam’s help, 56 will fight to free them both from Vicis’ clutches and learn to feel something she's always been denied: Love.

Gabriella is a witch. The problem is, she doesn't remember. She repressed the memories of her powers years ago when her mother was murdered. Now, the warlock who was responsible for her mother's death has set his sights on Gabriella. He is determined to use her fear to turn her to the dark side of magick…even if it kills her. Her mother's spirit is reaching out to warn her, but even that she pushes away. Desperate to save her daughter, the spirit finds a male witch–one that just happens to be in love with Gabriella. Darron is more than willing to help but the two young witches will have way more to battle than just an evil warlock. There are overbearing jocks and petty rich girls who get tempers flaring and often set Gabrielle and Darron at odds. There is more to the story than Gabrielle and Darron could even imagine. There are terrible secrets to be revealed, battles to be waged, and lives will be lost. Only after Gabrielle and Darron both come to terms with who they really are, and open themselves up to the true meaning of magick, can they have any hope of fulfilling their destiny.

Gabriella and Darron thought their magickal battle was over when they defeated the evil warlock, Richard. When her Aunt Donna seeks Gabriella's help in rescuing her catatonic daughter from the Dark Coven, Gabriella discovers that her cousin holds a power within her that would be catastrophic in the hands of the evil witches. Gabriella's coven sets out on a journey that may be their last. Along the way, they meet new allies, face devastating treachery, and battle not only the Dark Coven, but the darkness within themselves. When Gabriella finally comes face to face with the cousin she never knew existed, her true destiny is unveiled, and the fate of the mortal world is in her hands.

The “Phantom” was a musical phenomenon that Rebecca had always found enchanting. She had no idea that her life was about to mirror the play that was her obsession. When her high school drama club chooses “Phantom” as their annual production, Rebecca finds herself in the middle of an unlikely love triangle and the target of a sadistic stalker who uses the lines from the play as their calling card. Rebecca lands the lead role of Christine, the opera diva, and like her character, she is torn between her two co-stars—Tom the surfer and basketball star who plays the lovable hero, and Justyn, the strangely appealing Goth who is more than realistic in the role of the tortured artist. Almost immediately after casting, strange things start to happen both on and off the stage. Curtains fall. Mirrors are shattered. People are hurt in true phantom style. They all seem like accidents until Rebecca receives notes and phone calls that hint at something more sinister. Is Justyn bringing to life the twisted character of the phantom? Or in real life are the roles of the hero and the villain reversed? Rebecca doesn’t know who to trust, but she knows she’s running out of time as she gets closer and closer to opening night. Only when the mask is stripped away, will the twenty first century phantom finally be revealed.

The world of ghosts and spirits is nothing new to eighteen year old Anora Benson; she’s spent her whole life trying to ignore them, trying to be normal. But when the Pricolici, a group of ancient bounty hunters, are sent after her, Anora realizes she is more than just a medium. As a witch she has power, power she doesn’t know how to use, power that makes her vulnerable to the demons that desire her gifts. Anora is alone and scared, forced to face the darkness on her own. Then she meets Ethan, a mysterious boy who shows up in her life right along with the magic, and he seems to know quite a bit about her and her legacy Coven. Will she risk everything by trusting him or risk fighting alone?

After discovering her destiny as a witch, Anora Benson is on a mission to learn everything she can about the world of magic. Unbeknownst to Anora, the creatures in the world of magic are trying to learn everything they can about her…and everyone she loves. Suddenly forced into a deadly game of cat-and-mouse with a demon, Anora will do anything to stop it and save the people she cares about, even if that means having to choose between keeping them close or keeping them safe. She must quickly find her strengths, embrace both the dark and the light sides of her powers and decide if she can trust the help from the most unlikely of allies.








So as you can see we have some awesome books up for grabs!! Enter the Rafflecopter for your chance!!



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Beyond the Sea by Emily Goodwin

After the brutal and mysterious murder of her sister, Melia is forced to leave her life as a merrow and live on land, pretending to be human. Feeling very much like a fish out of water, Melia struggles to fit in and to accept that the Pacific Ocean she loves so much may never again be her home.
 Melia is unable to hide her fins from outsider Jamie Forester, who possess the gift to see into the Otherworld. Jamie—and everyone she knows—views her ability as a curse, isolating her from the rest of society. Melia sees the curse as a gift…and a way to find out what really happened to her sister.
 Eighteen year old Peter Anderson thinks college is the most extraordinary thing that will ever happen to him, until he meets Melia. He is immediately bewitched by her beauty and spirit, sensing but not seeing that there is more to her than meets the eye.
 Caught up in Peter’s affection and human affairs, Melia is too distracted to notice the darklings surfacing from the depths of the ocean. It isn’t until a body is found that Melia realizes parts of her old life have come back—with a vengeance.
 If Melia stays with the humans she has grown to love, danger will certainly find them. But going back to the sea with a killer still on the loose isn’t a choice she’s ready to make. Peter and Jamie are quick to defend Melia, willing to risk life and limb to keep their friend safe. But nothing can prepare them for the truth they learn about merrows and all of the darkness that lies beyond the sea.



Our Thoughts:
I had the privilege of reading the ARC of this wonderful book. I have never read anything from Emily or even of anything about merrows. I was really happy with the direction that the book was going. Especially what it is like as a teenager growing up in today's world where people are all different. And that whether it is a new boy or even a new friend that you are accepted for all of your strengths and faults. Melia proves that she is not just a fish out of water she has strengths and the ability to care deeply or people whether they are her land friends or her sea friends. I would give this book 5 stars and recommend that everyone mark you calendars for April 1, 2012 this is definitely something you will want to read. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. Emily Goodwin is also the author of two other series that I am going to check out now. Contagious (The Contagium Trilogy #1) and Unbound (The Guardian Legacies).
~Lisa



I love how this book makes things so tangible and real. The way that Emily Goodwin makes you identify with the characters is awesome! She was able to give the generalized background story of each character without digressing from the story and setting things up with the characters. This books plot and subplots are very like its title. There are small ones that crescendo on their own like small waves that are building and building as it goes. Each subplot seems to make a bigger splash as you read until the climax at the end, which still leaves you wondering…will there be a sequel? Although I would have liked to have an epilogue, I will rate this at 4 stars. This was an interesting read that you could put down, but didn’t really want to.
 ~Carrie

Unbound by Emily Goodwin

The world of ghosts and spirits is nothing new to eighteen year old Anora Benson; she’s spent her whole life trying to ignore them, trying to be normal. But when the Pricolici, a group of ancient bounty hunters, are sent after her, Anora realizes she is more than just a medium. As a witch she has power, power she doesn’t know how to use, power that makes her vulnerable to the demons that desire her gifts. Anora is alone and scared, forced to face the darkness on her own. Then she meets Ethan, a mysterious boy who shows up in her life right along with the magic, and he seems to know quite a bit about her and her legacy Coven. Will she risk everything by trusting him or risk fighting alone?
 www.facebook.com/theguardianlegacies
 Buy Unbound in paperback at: https://www.createspace.com/3736330



 Our thoughts:
 Unbound by Emily Goodwin was a truly great and heart rending story about a girl named Anora. She always felt different from most people in school while growing up. After the death of her great aunt strange things start happening to her. After breaking up with er boyfriend Mike she meets a very good looking older guy by the name of Ethan. After almost getting killed by a spirit in a host body. They end up finding out family secrets about each other and that brings them closer together. Beware I don't cry but the ending is heart wrenching good thing Emily is working on book 2 to continue this wonderful story. I give this book 5 stars and recommend you look into her other series with the first book being Contagious and on April 1, 2012 Beyond the Sea is being released and let me tell you that you won't be disappointed I was privileged to get to read the ARC. 5 stars
 ~Lisa


 Unbound is an excellent beginning to what seems to be a very promising series. Quick witted Anora Benson has never led a normal existence but after the death of her eccentric Great-Aunt Estelle, life as she knows it seems to take a turn from strange to extremely paranormal. She soon starts to realize that her Aunts eccentric ways may not have been just the senile ramblings of an elderly woman but actual knowledge and truth. When the mysterious Ethan Bailey walks into her life Anora learns that not only is she the only known remaining heir to the Coven of the Sacred Guardians but also one of the most powerful Witches in existence and the Demons pursuing her will stop at nothing to gain her powers. With Ethan and Hunter by her side, Anora sets out to destroy the Demons before they can get their claws on her and the ones she loves. Great read, can’t wait to see what Author Emily Goodwin has in store for us in the next book. 4 stars ~Ashley


 5 stars hands down! This book and the way it was written is absolutely amazing! I have to say, at first there were a few words I had to look up in the dictionary, but other than like, 3-4 words, and it was riveting! The way the story had its ups and downs, the rhythm of it was music and an absolute masterpiece. I had goose bumps as the story came to its climax. Would I recommend this? ABSOLUTELY! This book had me more involved than Twilight in the character, and more enthralled than Marked (A House of Night Book). I’m telling you, this book and its writer are going to go places and I am glad to report that you should read it. You don’t need a synapsis of the story. And I won’t tell you anything about it. You just need to READ IT! 5 stars
 ~Carrie

Stay tuned for our review of Beyond the Sea tomorrow!!

Lady Luck Runs Out

Lady Luck Runs Out

Fall tourist season in St. Pete has kicked into high gear for Darwin Winters, pet psychic, but that doesn't stop her from getting tangled up in a new murder investigation. Rose Faraday, a gypsy fortune teller, has succumbed to a rattlesnake bite in her own condo. After a run-in with the victim's traumatized cat, Darwin knows it was no freak accident. Can she find a way to prove it? Or will the killer get lucky and get away with murder?  

Follow the author, Shannon Esposito Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

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  The contest is open to US/ Can residents. Ends October 30 Fill out the form below to enter a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Enlightened Species by Wendy S. Hales

The Enlightened Species— Living in our world are three powerful species with unique physical traits and psychic abilities yet if you ran into one on the street you’d never know it. Having warred through the ages they come together under a new order called the Symbiosis of Species Council. United, the members of the SOSC find love, laughter, friendship, and battle the evil elements of our world.


 Immortal Becoming, Book One— Is the sensual story of an interracial Volaticus bloodmating between Shane, an Elven and Jess, a human/Elven hybrid known as Hulven. Their bloodmating represents hope for the Volaticus species continued survival. Supported by Shane’s love Jess is enmeshed into the SOSC and a battle against evil rogues who cage and breed women.


 Shadow Revealed, Book Two— Is a story about a second chance for love. Umbrae, a Hulven female and Enlil, a seven thousand year old Elven warrior, have both had their lives destroyed by the same prolific killer. In a hunt for vengeance they come together and in each other’s arms, find the power of loves ability to heal the soul.


 Shadowed Magic, Novella (Book 2.5)— Is a story about opposites attracting. Aymee, an independent, social, sexually confident modern human woman is an unlikely match for Eros an ancient Volaticus assassin who prefers the company of his family to the exclusion of everything and everyone else yet Aymee enchants him.

 Buy it on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Smashwords


Michelle and Lisa's thoughts:



Book 1

 First off I have to say that I loved the cover of the book it drew you in. This book was so refreshing from most paranormal books it showed us The Enlightened Species where there are several different deviations. The accidental meeting of Jess and Shane truly saved her sanity and helped her realize what her abilities are because they shared the same abilities. Shane and Jess were meant to be together for many reasons. With their meeting Jess gained do much love, friendship, clarity, and family that she never knew she had. It also help reconcile with the death of her mother and the circumstances regarding it. The author did such a fabulous job making well rounded characters even though there were a lot. Each one helped to build onto the storyline and enhance the reading experience. The story was fast paced even though it is a book that you could not put down. The action in the book was additive from page one to the last page. I couldn't wait to read the next book in this series because it just was so intoxicating. Thank you do much Wendy Hales for giving us such a great book that took us on a amazing journey. ~Lisa

 Jess has lived most of her life in seclusion. Being psychic sends her into massive sensory overloads around large group of people. at times it has even cause seizures and bleeding from the nose. All of the changes when Shane walked into her life. Shane brought out the best in Jess. He helped take the overload away and helped Jess to live again, but dangerous times are still ahead. . A crazy man has abducted one of Jess's loved ones. The same mad man who just a few years prior had tormented her own mother. As the secrets unravel it becomes apparent that he must be stopped at all cost. Can Shane and Jess hold it together and rescue those she loves? . Jess is an awesome leading female. Strong ,yet sensitive even with the world crashing down she remains fearless. Shane is the man of our dreams ....who wouldn't want a man who was especially designed for you in every way. This story provides action ,romance and a fair mix of suspense along the way. Nothing about it dragged or even made me want to put it down even for just a break Editing superb , excellently written and easy to follow. A definite must have!!!!!! ~Michelle


 Book 2


 This second book was fantastic better than book one Immortal Becoming. It continued the story of Shane and Jess but they were not the main focus in this one. Jess's grandfather Enlil was given a second chance with another woman thanks to his deceased bloodmate Etana. But with her help she also helped Umbrae and give her a family and love of her own even though she went through so much pain and sufferring as a blood slave to Zakel. The author brought together several of the enlightened that truly enhanced this story. Umbrae come to know about her father Eros and her 5 brothers. This book had action, suspense, and drama compounded one after another. Why must one girl be put through so much and come out stronger. The cover on this book was just as beautiful as the first. I definitely want to continue on with this series. Definitely a book I would recommend for everyone to read could put down. ~Lisa

 Usually I give my interpretation of the story as told by the author and then give my opinion of the book. I am changing this a little here. Umbrae's story is so beyond what moat of is read. Used as a breeding slave for years, caged , suffering abuse beyond horror movies was her life. After the rescue, to watch her heal and gather her strength is magical. This author also throws a twist in each of her novels and she didn't disappoint here. The ending is quite the shocker. I love the storyline and this series simply because it isn't mainstream. The characters are part human human and supes so it adds a new aspect. Overall well paced action, romance and suspense. ~Michelle

 Book 2.5

 I love the covers of the books up to this point. Typically if a cover cannot capture my attention I usually will bypass the book not so with Wendy Hales. She is so talented in continuing her stories through each book without losing the integrity. Although she chooses a different set of characters to be highlighted all the characters are used in which to increase the readers enjoyment. This book featured Jess's human friend Aymee and Umbrae's father Eros. Due to a terrible incident Eros comes to Aymee's aide and the physical attraction starts from there. The story is so fast paced and full of suspense and drama you are unable to put these books down. I am really looking forward to the adventures that she gives us in Fire Touch. I would definitely recommend this series if you want a book that you cant put down and has you hoping for the couple to find the love within each other. Thank you Wendy S. Hales for such a fantastic and remarkable series. ~Lisa


 Aymee remains the only mortal among her group of friends. Disgusted with dating, she decided to give up an active nightlife to wait for something or someone more meaningful. Only so far that has yet to happen. What's even more nauseating is watching her bff and her new bloodmate,soulmate and overall perfect male Shane. Eros has always dated human women. He enjoys the freedom of only a few years of his immortal life with one female, and when she passes he goes on with his immortal life. However when Eros and Aymee meet life changes in the most outstanding ways. Aymee is attacked outside a nightclub after a girl's night out. Eros helps her fend off the four potential rapists. One of them gets away and Eros decided to help Aymee physically heal. In all actuality it may be the other way around. Of the entire series I think Aymee and Eros are my two favorites. They act so real. Their relationship is fiery. They have spats like a real couple and to watch their story unfold is so sweet. My biggest complaint here would have to be that this should be a novel not novella. There is so much action and underlying drama that there was endless opportunity to expand on ...but then maybe the author did that on purpose.... Love the series and Aymee. Great editing and flow in fact you will most likely read it in one sitting. ~Michelle


The girls loved it!! 5 enthusiastic stars

A Political Affair

A Political Affair isn't Fifty Shades of Red, White, and Blue, but it is a love story with spice and political intrigue. Stephen McEvoy never expected to fill his father’s U.S. Senate seat at such a young age—or to fight to keep it. When clever Anne Norwood interns in his office, Stephen dismisses her as another pretty face—until her independent streak catches his attention. They’re both too smart to fall for one another, yet they do. During a tough election, their relationship is an impossible political gamble. Campaigns—like love—are either won or lost. Follow Mary Goodreads / Website / Twitter / Facebook Releases Oct 18 Amazon Purchase her Novella A Very Important Guest Even before she graduated from law school, Mary knew she wasn't cut out to be a real lawyer. Drawn to politics, she's spent her career as an organizer, lobbyist, and nonprofit executive. Nothing piques her interest more than a good political scandal or romance, and when she stumbled upon writing, she put the two together. A born Midwesterner, naturalized Texan, and transient resident of Washington, D.C., Mary now lives in Northern California with her two daughters and real lawyer husband. Tour Starts October 15. The author is giving away 2 e books , a $10 Amazon GC (Open INT), and 2 swag Packs (Open US/ Can)

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Smilodon Book Blast

Smilodon

Seven years after a near-fatal mauling by a grizzly bear, in which his only son was killed, Jason Bristol, a one time prize-fighter and expert animal tracker, is back in the woods tracking again--when he's not nursing the nearest fifth of whiskey. Then Jason's best friend and mentor is discovered half-buried beneath a mat of pine needles. The prospector's mangled corpse has been mauled virtually beyond recognition. A rancher loses a prize thoroughbred and suddenly the nightmare responsible for Jason's downward spiral is rekindled as Jason is thrust back into the wilderness on the trail of a predator that defies belief. The time clock has begun for Norah Phelps, too, daughter of multimillionaire real estate developer Richard Phelps whose recent purchase of the 95,000 acre former Clarksdale Animal Preserve has pitted environmentalist and wildlife biologist daughter against capitalist father. Norah, responsible for relocating the local wolf population, remains unconvinced a pack of marauding wolves are accountable for the attacks and enlists Jason's help in her quest for the real killer before the spate of killings can jeopardize not only her future but also the future of her father's prize development project. Against the majestic pristine backdrop of Idaho's Bitterroot Wilderness Area, the story unfolds. Jason, with Norah's assistance, soon discovers the ghosts of his past are nothing compared to the battle he's undertaken. Smilodon. A saber-toothed cat. He's angry, he's frightened, he's hungry, and he's 12,000 years from home! SMILODON 75,000 words or about 300 pages Alan Nayes is the author of GARGOYLES, THE UNNATURAL, BARBARY POINT, and GIRL BLUE. Buy on Amazon /Amazon UK / Barnesandnoble / Smashwords Follow Alan Nayes Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Blog / His website The author is giving away a $25 Giftcard and ebook copies of GARGOYLES and PLAGUE book 1 and 2 of the Resuurrection Trilogy. Fill out the form below for your chance to win open INT Ends 10/21 a Rafflecopter giveaway

Bruxa: The Secret Within

Bruxa The Secret Within By AF Acosta
 Genre: Paranormal YA Paperback: 400 pages
 ISBN-10: 1463704275
 ISBN-13: 978-1463704278 
\Gabriella is no ordinary seventeen-year-old girl. She is the last to carry her mother’s rare bloodline of Bruxa, an ancient secret order of witches. Settling into her late father’s estate, she is welcomed by a phantom presence that resurrects within her, a secret curse her father took to his grave ten years ago. Gabriella finally finds a sense of belonging and gains the affections of high school’s most desired boy, Joey Davale. Her newly found life becomes derailed when she learns her whole existence has been a lie, and the boy she’s falling for, is designed to destroy the very thing growing inside of her. Forced to conceal this truth, Gabriella embarks on a secret life that will drive her into the arms of Alvero, the embodiment of her darkest fear. Her newly found heritage traps her in a dangerous web of lies between two worlds and two loves. Her life will become more dangerous than she ever imagined. As the age-old battle between witches and vampires collide, will she fall prey to her heart or welcome the predator inside?
Smashwords Amazon



 About the author:

A.F. Costa has been creating vivid, imaginary worlds before she could even pick up a book, so it was only natural for her to put a pen to paper the moment she learned to write. Growing up with rich Latin superstitions and strong spiritual beliefs sparked her interests for the paranormal world. Captivating small audiences with her campfire stories resurrected her passion for writing, but seeing her same passions for reading and writing developing in her son has inspired her the most. Toronto, Ontario-based stylist A.F.Costa has been showcasing her creative abilities for over sixteen years, working with some of the best in the industry. As it is with her visual creativity, A.F. Costa brings the same passion to her writing. In Bruxa: the Secret Within, you‘ll discover an innovative world of witches and vampires like no other, blending Latin, Portuguese and Hebrew folklore into a modern day love story with an unforgettable twist.
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 facebook page www.facebook.com/A.F.Costa.Bruxa

Mad World: Sanctuary Review

The year is 2017, and the Black Plague infection has swept across most of the United States, leaving death and chaos in its wake. Martial law is the rule rather than the exception, with outbreaks cropping up when they're least expected. Alyssa and her friends must not only battle outbreaks of the disease, but also find themselves pursued by government agents – men and women determined to track them down at any cost. Fleeing north to the fabled Sanctuary, Alyssa, Jacob, DeAndre, Caitlyn, Risa and Luke face disturbing ordeals and terrible tragedy as they encounter unbelievable situations in their struggle to reach safety. Using their skills and wits in their fight to survive against ever worsening odds, they weather hardship, betrayal, and the ever-present specter of death as they flee north, all the while vowing to protect one another – and most of all their precious 5-year-old Luke, from a world gone mad. Sanctuary, the second installment in the Mad World series, is a heart-rending adventure of astonishing revelations, tragic discoveries, agonizing separations and devastating losses that test these friends to their limits. With heart-pounding, edge-of-your-seat suspense at every turn, this is a story you will not be able to put down. Find out what happens next.
Amazon

 Ashley's thoughts:

 Wow. Samaire Provost has out done herself with this gripping sequel to Mad World: Epidemic. Behind every zombie lays a family still holding on to the hope that a cure may be found or they can somehow manage to help their loved one maintain control, if only that were truly the case. Sanctuary takes off running five years after the cliffhanger of an ending for Epidemic and doesn’t slow down. We find our makeshift family of survivors moving from town to town not only trying to escape from Zombies but now they are faced with being hunted by their own government. The CDC knows about Luke and they are prepared to use any means necessary to acquire the child. Their only hope: reaching the Canadian Sanctuary. Problem is that not only is the CDC quickly closing in on them but the deadly zombie infection is evolving, creating a more organized threat. Staying true to her cliffhanger ending, Provost keeps a tight grip until the very last word leaving you hungry for more. 5 Stars

Dirty Eden review

The Devil gives Norman Reeves an ill-fated mission he has no choice but to accept: Find the center of Eden and reverse the Fall of Man. Thrust into a place called Creation, Norman’s task is plagued by unimaginable people and events. He must unravel impossible clues to free the Three Trees and keep himself out of Hell at the same time. On this surreal and humorous journey, Norman discovers many things better left unknown: the shocking secret lives of people close to him and the other unthinkable reason he was brought here. But should Norman fail, like all visitors to Creation, he will forget everyone and everything he has ever known, becoming part of the madness that was once the paradise of Eden.



Amazon




Our thoughts:
This was not what I was expecting to read when I looked at the cover. This was a very dark and twisted book like me just kidding. I really enjoyed the imagery the author used to give you a very visual experience in order for the reader to connect with the storyline and characters. I was unable to put the book down because I was afraid that I would miss something pivotal but duh unlike a movie I can go back and reread the pages but I was drawn into it and captivated. Norman is a man who is very bitter in the beginning like most of us he really hates his job and really demeans himself. He must come to terms with his life, family, past, present, and future in a most bizarre way. Can Norman grow from his journey or will he be forever stuck in the rutt that is cycling through. Thank you J.A. Redmerski for allowing me to walk along this dark and twisted pathway with you. I look forward to reading more from you. I highly recommend this for one heck of a twisted roller coaster ride. ~Lisa

 First off, I just have to say that this book is not at all what I expect. I’m not even really quite sure what my expectations were, but still this book seriously blindsided me. For all of you J.A. Redmerski fans out there hoping for something along the line of The Darkwoods Trilogy (romance, light and fun) Don’t. This is an extremely dark and twisted tale. That being said-if you can go into this with an open mind and just feel the story as it’s being told, it has the potential to suck you in completely, making it well worth the read. 4 stars ~Ashley

Winter's MAgic

Winter's Magic is coming out Nov. 1. Celebrate with us starting October 1 and lasting all month long culminating to a release day party November 2! Winners will be picked and announced at the party. (emailed too) RSVP to the Facebook Party HERE Owner of La Bella Vita, a five-star day spa nestled in the affluent suburbs of Nashville, Tennessee, Beth Sergeant knows her elite clientele first hand. She attended their private schools. She was even engaged, although briefly, to one of their most recognized bachelors. But she never fit in to their social-elite world. After losing his parents to a car accident at a young age, Nick Chester was raised by his grandfather, the wealthiest man in Nashville. When he chooses to socialize, he has a never-ending list of exclusive events and beautiful women vying for his attention. Yet he never lets himself forget that everyone has an agenda. Beth can’t resist Nick’s charm and accepts an invitation to dinner, despite her deep-seated insecurities. She proves she’s nothing like other women Nick's dated and learns to trust him in return. But just as the last of their resistance crumbles and true love is within reach, challenges from Nick's past threaten to destroy everything and force Beth to reveal her most guarded secret.   Visit Cynthia Gail's Blog for Extra Entries for Fun Prizes HERE Follow Cynthia Gail on Facebook Enter to win Open INT for ebooks and GCs, US/ Can for swag a Rafflecopter giveaway