COVER REVEAL.. Born of Fire by Amy Erstad

 

 

Humans are losing their devotion to the Gods. After everything the humans put themselves and others though; faith is still not high on their priority list. Even the Gods would think such things as wars would lead the humans back to them, but it is only a temporary fix. Their devotion still waivers. Other than Ra, no one seems to notice, or they just don't care. They keep telling him it will get better with time, only it doesn't. Worse yet, they keep denying his request for an earthly presence. He is sick of watching and waiting, and sick of being denied. He is not going to just stand by and let them keep denying him, he has his own plans. Plans put in place centuries ago, secretly. Now they shall all see what happens when he is forsaken.

While Ra is making plans of his own, Kenna, on the earthly realm, is figuring out that the people she loves and trusts are keeping secrets from her. She wants to know what those secrets are, and she knows they have something to do with her nightmares, but no one is giving up any information. She is not too worried though. She has Keyara, her best friend, right there beside her. Together they work to try to unravel the mystery that her life has become. Together they stand when Kenna's life is turned upside down by some handsome stranger. One that is familiar, yet unknown to Kenna. Together they will continue to stand, when the secrets are revealed, and both girls find they have destinies they never would have dreamed of.

 

Excerpt: Daniel

I look at my father inquisitively, “You know when I was younger and you told me to imagine blackness in my mind, and then you went on to tell me that you were going to show me something in my mind?  Did that really happen, or did I just dream it?”

Looking slightly excited, dad answered my question. “It was completely real. I am glad you are finally asking about it, as it is time you find out the full truth about whom and what you are.”

“Whom and what I am? What are you talking about? Why do I get the feeling you are going to tell me something outrageous, even for me, for a teenager?”

Dad started snickering at my questions. “It's all good. I promise.”

“If you say so, I'll take your word for it, but I'm not promising anything,” I express hesitantly. 

“So where shall we start? Let's see. You were about five when I showed you the vision. That is the age at which most of us experience the dream spark for the first time, and very few people know or find out what such a thing is.”

 



 Want an excerpt from Kenna and Keyara? stop by Wine, Relaxation and My Kindle
Want an excerpt from Ra and Lyssa? stop by Author Kristen Marie
 

Author Bio

Amy has been married for 16 years and shares two beautiful daughters with her husband. After being a stay at home mother for many years, she went back to school and graduated with her Associates Degree in Business Administration in 2009. When she is not working, she loves being able to travel whenever she can and has had the opportunity to visit several different countries with her family, and has even been able to live in some of them.

While it was never her dream to become a writer, she now loves every minute of her time spent in the writing world, as it gives her the opportunity to live in a world made out of imagination and sometimes dreams. She loves reading paranormal and fantasy books.

Read More

STAY by S.Mulholland

Synopsis:
Eighteen year old Alexandra Angel has finally made it out of her abusive mother’s house alive, now going to St. Norbert College in the small town she grew up in; she wants to experience living her own life, free of abuse, but on the night she meets Jason Roberts; her fate has something different in mind.
Alexandra and Jason have a strong connection but the closer she gets to him, the further he shuts her out. This doesn’t stop Alexandra’s heart from falling in love with Jason and she fears that he might not feel the same way about her. Jason holds a lot of mystery and secrets that Alexandra tries to figure out and on a night when they are to meet, he never shows up, leaving her to mourn the loss of his absence.
Months later, he returns to tell her he’ll never be able to be with her the way that she wants to be with him. Hurt for the second time by the man she loves, Alexandra decides to move on with her life with what others told her to be “the perfect man”, Zac Millington. As time with him goes by she realizes that things were never as they seemed…as he seemed.
If you had the opportunity to change what becomes your worst nightmare, would you take the chance to change it or pretend like that nightmare is what’s meant to be?
Stay is a romantic depiction of how two people that are meant to be together are torn apart by the one thing they both have in common. As they both go through their own versions of abuse, will they be able to stay after finally finding each other again?

Excerpt: (Might differ from published version)
“Alexandra…let me hear you say it…” He whispers.
All thoughts evaporate from my mind at the sound of his voice.
I want to turn around and face him but his hands go to my hips then, slowly turning and walking me towards something.
As we come to a stop his body presses into me from behind pushing me up against the door that shut moments ago.
I slightly open my eyes but everything is blurry which confuses me until his hands roam every curve of my body making me close them again.
My heart rate picks up and I hope that he can’t hear how loud it’s beating. “Say what?” I ask breathlessly.
His hands stop their exploration at my stomach.
I gasp when pulls me back into him and I feel every inch of his hardness.
I try to open my eyes again so that I can see him but I can’t. I’m so in the moment with this man that my brain doesn’t seem to be functioning correctly. All I know is that his voice alone is lighting my body on fire.
One of his hands leaves my stomach and I feel my hair being moved to the side. His lips start to torture me on my neck and I shiver. He places feather like kisses there and I struggle not to let my knees buckle.
“Say that you understand your mine and nobody else’s…” He says when he gets near my ear.

I’m from Green Bay, Wisconsin. I went to a small private college in a town called De Pere before joining the U.S. Navy in 2006. After my short career in the military, I got married and started having kids. I have two munchkins now. I’ve been a stay at home mom for a couple of years.
This past Christmas, my husband got a Nook Color as a gift and he never got to use it because it was always glued to my hands. I never liked reading but once I picked up that Nook—I was addicted. So I’ve read a TON of books and it’s become my getaway. I started writing as a hobby but after I finished Stay, my husband encouraged me to get out there…so here I am. I love listening to music and find it inspirational and I think that it goes hand in hand with writing.


Pages/Contact:
Msuly86@gmail.com              Facebook Page        Blog          Goodreads          Twitter
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/smulhollandstay
Spotify: User Name—Author S. Mulholland

Read More

Opposites chapter two revealed!

So by now you all know that the release date of Opposites was pushed back a few days, due to some unexpected errors that were found in the final edit. I am so overwhelmed by the show of support from my fans, even if you are a little disappointed, I promise you all it will be worth the wait.
I am on the home stretch with the corrections and I wanted to share a little more with you guys as a thank you. In chapter two you are introduced to Maeve and Tanis, the brother and sister from Greece. Maeve is matched with our young Aiya and Tanis, well, Tanis is going to find himself little closer to god than he ever expected!

~ TWO ~

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Tanis was pacing on the dock, anxious for everyone and everything to be unloaded so he could head back to Greece when he saw a flash of color that stopped him in his tracks. On the other side of the clearing a tall man with broad shoulders was loading their crates onto a makeshift trailer. His hair was just as black as the clothes he wore, but what caught Tanis’s attention were the random streaks of purple that ran through that thick, unruly hair. He barely registered Maeve now standing beside him, until she moved her thumb across the side of his mouth. “Hold still, there is a little drool right.. ah there, all better!” He swatted her hand away and harrumphed. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”  “Yeah, right. Is that.. is his hair, purple?” Turning back to face Tanis, she immediately recognized the look in his eyes. “Oh no!” she barked, “Oh yes!” he responded as he started walking toward the other side of the clearing.

She grabbed his arm and spun him around to face her. “Listen, you don’t have to stay here, I do. Do not make another goddamn mess that I have to clean up!” Tanis jerked his arm out of his sister’s grip and growled at her. “Oh, I think Hector can handle things for a few days, don’t you?” Again, it was a statement more than a question. Tanis was the captain of the armies of Greece and Hector was his second in command.

Maeve followed behind him mumbling curses in their wake, remembering the night before they left their home to travel here. She’d gone for a walk on the beach and was returning to her room when she rounded the corner and there they were, Tanis and some nameless, faceless guard. Tanis had him bent over the railing and was pounding him relentlessly, the poor man had such a tight grip on the banister his knuckles had gone white. Tanis was anything but prudish, he would screw who he wanted where and when he wanted. He didn’t care who knew or their thoughts on his indiscretions, much like his Fathers. It was almost comical and she had to stifle her laughter. Her brother wasn't big, barely missing six feet, but the man Tanis was screwing this time around had to be 6’4 with dark hair. She caught a flash of that dark hair as Tanis fisted a handful, jerking the man's head back for total dominance. Her brother's blond hair and blue eyes flashed in beautiful contrast to his "date's" dark features. Tanis's all too familiar tattoo rippled as flesh tightened in his passion. He and Maeve both carried an identical tattoo on their neck, the Greek symbols of Alpha and Omega, but Tanis’s arms and chest were covered in ink as well. 

Maeve was brought back from her memories as Tanis brushed past her, moving toward the man. Ignoring her protests, Tanis slowly made his way toward him, politely shaking hands as introductions were endured. When the two men took each other’s hands there was an instant jolt. The man, Raven, actually gasped then quickly recovered, smiling and introducing himself before excusing himself. Tanis stared after him as he made his way back to his horse, mounted, and left with a small group of people. He had no idea what had just happened, but he intended to stay right there until he found out, and Maeve be damned if she disagreed. Maeve doubled over with laughter as soon as Raven was out of earshot. “So what, he’s a Priest.” Tanis stammered. “Oh no brother, he’s not just any priest, he’s THE priest.” Maeve was still laughing hysterically as she mounted her horse and followed after Raven.

Tanis quickly caught up with her and as they made their way to the palace Maeve took in her surroundings. The clearing itself was very small and secluded consisting of a small one room guard house, the cottage and the dock. A mixture of sunflowers, emerald green grass, red clay dirt and gravel made up the small but quant area of the clearing which was surrounded by a forest of dense trees. House Gaeland was set atop a self-contained island, being secluded from any other patch of land, only connected to the clearing by a mile long bridge that had been built for travel and separated the two areas.

As they touched ground on the other side of the bridge she eyed the different sizes and shapes of the buildings they first came to. There were homes for families, a library, a school and a tavern. “First drinks on me sis.” Tanis joked from his horse directly behind her, she ignored him and continued moving forward. They were on a well-worn path that wove left then right at an incline toward the center, top of the island. Tanis could see Raven just up ahead of them, he held up his hand and looked at the palm then the top, then wiggled his fingers. What was that?! He thought to himself, remembering the jolt when he shook his hand. He’d felt it as well, Tanis saw the shock register in those beautiful blue eyes, as blue as the ocean back home in Greece. He was larger than Tanis just by an inch or two, and those huge strong hands, oh where he wanted… “Dammit! Tanis, watch where you’re going!” Maeve barked at him, bringing him back from his reverie. Lost in thought his horse had veered right and pushed Maeve’s off the trail. “Sorry Sis, the sun.” she cut him off. “The Priest.” He glared back over his shoulder at her, they made the rest of the trip up in relative silence.

Finally arriving at the palace gates she turned to admire the view. The palace was located directly at the top of the island, surrounded by beautiful homes and buildings all the way back down toward the bridge. There were different types of trees scattered throughout the grounds as well. She admitted to herself that she would be kept in an exquisite cage, still feeling raw inside about being betrothed to someone she’s never met. She dismounted and their group was approached by a tall, scary skinny older man with graying hair and a beard. “I trust you had a safe journey. I am William, the stable hand, I’ll take the horses now and see that they are fed and watered.” The workers were coming out of the stable to unload the horse’s, she patted her brother’s arm and motioned him to follow. “How tall do you think the wall is?” Tanis placed his hand over his eyes as he had to look almost directly into the sun to see the top. “I’d say 12-15 feet high and probably 4 feet wide. And the doors we came through look to be made of some type of steel or iron, very thick.” He spun in a circle and noticed that the wall completely surrounded the palace.  Their mother, Theresa, motioned for them to follow “Maeve, Tanis, come.”

Maeve made her way over beside the one that introduced himself as Kaden. “You’re awfully quiet, everything okay?” She asked. “It’s just all so overwhelming, I’m trying not to throw up. Aren’t you the least bit nervous, anxious to meet your future wife? I must admit, I’m a wreck!” He laughed nervously which made her laugh in turn. Tanis as well had made his way over to the pair and began a conversation with Sawyer, she thought his name was.  He’d travelled with Kaden and his family across the ocean with them, Kaden had introduced him as his brother but she knew that was impossible.  First off he was clearly not Indian by birth with his wheat colored hair and emerald green eyes. He stood a good two inches taller than Kaden, much closer to her Father’s height she surmised.  He was thin but not lanky with defined Arms and a uniquely defined facial structure that was somewhere between angular and squared.  Everything about him screamed Outkast, but she would not dare offend by asking the history there. Kaden offered her his arm bringing her back to reality and she twined hers in it as they walked on together. As they rounded the corner of the stables and the palace came into view they both came to an abrupt halt.

Maeve stood next to Kaden, eyes wide.  The scenery coming in was not exquisite, THIS was exquisite! The building was only one floor high but you could see the guard tower high above the palace at the back. There were four pillars right at the entry way with a statue of some type of creature in between them “They are totems, I believe” Kaden whispered to her, then pointed each one out as he named them. “Bear, dragon, snake, monkey, eagle and a raven, I think.” The last animal made her laugh out loud, and Kaden eyed her with a mild curiosity.

The entryway of the palace consisted of high vaulted ceilings shaped like an archway, a dozen of them one behind the other leading them into the palace. As they walked the main hall every ten feet or so there were symbols made up of different colored stones embedded into the walls.  Among them were various versions of crosses, stars, spirals and triskels. 

They were lead further into the palace and down a long hallway by the twin’s parents that had met them at the docks, Cirian and Mia. The twins themselves, as well as their other parents had yet to make an appearance. Walking under an archway carved from a darker wood the hall was now partially covered and partially open to the outside. Maeve let out an audible gasp as the beautiful garden opened up before her. “My god, it’s beautiful!” she exclaimed. “Indeed.” Kaden stated quietly as he pulled her off the concrete flooring and onto the grass. The group stood open mouthed, gaping at the beauty that surrounded them when Rian and Amaya, the other father and mother, finally joined them. Kaden politely shook hands when they greeted him, he was confused already.  He’d met too many people today and he was certain he wouldn’t remember half of them. The one person he was most anxious to meet still eluded him.

Well, what do you think? Please feel free to comment, I want some feedback!

Read More

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUTHOR INGER IVERSON!!

Welcome to Inger Iversons Birthday 'blog' Bash!!

About the book: After a fatal hit and run accident, Ella Monroe fears that she’s lost more than her beloved parents. Horrifying visions of a past life and a disturbing voice in her head have psychiatric professionals convinced that she’s lost her sanity as well. But when Kale--a dark and handsome stranger with a mysterious past--reveals the true meaning of her visions and the tremendous power she wields through them, Ella must come to terms with the devastating truths of her own past, while eluding an ancient Dark Prince who seeks to control not only her future, but all of mankind’s, by means of abilities that Ella is only beginning to understand.

Enter the shrouded world of an age old battle between an ancient race known as the Immortals and their bitter enemy Laurent, the so-called Dark Prince, who commands an army of half-breed vampires known as Chorý. Both sides have been desperately searching for the prophesied emergence of the Arc, a clairvoyant with unparalleled power to recall the past and a soothsayer with clear vision into the future.

The Council of Immortals has sworn to protect the Arc, whom they have identified as young Ella Monroe, a college freshman from Virginia living quietly and unaware of her powers or her past. But a renegade Chorý has other plans for the protection of a girl he has loved through the ages. Can Kale convince Ella of who she is, what she is destined to become, and what he once meant to her? Is he truly the best protector to shield the world from the devastating misuse of her powers that Laurent is bent on controlling? Or will the forbidden love they share and Kale’s cursed condition as a retched and hated Chorý be used against them both?

Book links: Goodreads/ Amazon/ Barnes & Noble/ Smashwords

 Inger Iversen lives in Virginia Beach with her tree-hugging boyfriend Joshua and her overweight lap cat Max. When not reading or writing she spends her time watching reruns of True Blood or killing zombies in Call Of Duty.

Facebook Birthday Bash Event-

https://www.facebook.com/events/450551925037578/?context=create#



Read More

Opposites by T.M. Smith first chapter revealed.

In the year 2081 our planet survived global warming of an apocalyptic scale. When the dust settled and the water receded Dr. Anthony Smith, one of only a few hundred survivors of GWI, started society anew. Having come to the conclusion that injudicious breeding played a huge role in the destruction of Earth as we knew it in the twenty first century, he worked closely with other survivors to isolate the Dionysus gene. This gene has the ability to manipulate human DNA to ensure that all male children be born gay, and all female children be born lesbians. A new society is born.

In the year 2300 Dr. Smith’s descendants are ushering in the twenty fourth century having maintained control of the government that still rules society. Twins Aiya and Aiyan are preparing to meet their matches and take control of House Gaeland, the current ruling House. But not everything is as it seems.

Love is Love.. it knows no gender and doesn’t conform to restrictions and boundaries. Aiyan has found his soul mate in Kaden, the prince of House Devi that he is matched with and eventually marries. But when the person Aiya falls in love with tests the boundaries put in place after GWI, all hell breaks loose. And in the midst of one secret unraveling, another will emerge. There is a growing anomaly that threatens to destroy over two hundred years of progression. This anomaly is known as Opposites.

*WARNING* Opposites is a majorly M/M New Adult novel that contains explicit sexual content and relationships between gay, lesbian and straight couples.

"The tale Author T.M. Smith has created here for you is absolutely original and amazing. She writes an amazing cast of characters that you get involved with and really start caring about them."
Jessy, BookEnd 2 BookEnd

A note from the author:
It has been a long, hard road to get Opposites where it is today. Release was set for tomorrow, May 28th, but I've found some mistakes during final edits that are hindering that release date. I'm confident that I will have these mistakes resolved over the next few days and I'm still certain I will be able to release before the end of May. My apologies to all the fans that have been anxiously awaiting this book, I promise it will be worth it in the end. So, to make it up to you all I've decided to reveal the first chapter. Without further ado, here is the first chapter of Opposites.

~ ONE ~ 

MEMORIES

The relentless chirping was driving Aiyan mad, as if his restless sleep and would be nightmares weren’t enough to push him over the edge. He rolled over and pulled the pillow up over his head, finally succumbing to more fitful dreams. In his dream the clearing was covered in fog and haze, there was a body of flames lying at his feet and he was so overcome with emotions he could barely breathe. Anger, fear and loss overwhelmed him.

 A knock at the door drew him from his sleep and he came too as he realized the sun was beginning to rise, how long had he been asleep? He was greeted by his twin sister’s haggard grin, obviously he wasn’t the only one eluded by peaceful sleep.  “I thought we might go a few rounds before our guests arrive.” He then noticed she was wearing her gi, hair pulled tight into a bun. “God Aiya, I think I’d only just fallen asleep.  This can’t wait until this afternoon?” She ignored his comment as she walked into the room and surveyed the unkempt bed. “Yeah, Just. What’s wrong brother, afraid I’ll kick your ass again?”

“You so cheated!” Their last match hadn’t ended well with Aiyan on his back and his sister straddling his chest. She harrumphed and made her way back out the door, down the hall. “So you say, care to go another round?” He stood in the middle of the room, motionless. “CHICKEN!” She yelled out, already half way down the hall. Aiyan dressed in his Gi quickly and made his way into the hall, following his sister.    

He caught up with her effortlessly in just a few long strides, towering close to a foot over her small waif frame. At first glance one would not even consider these two to be twins. Aiya had long, flowing white blonde hair with bold streaks of fuchsia, indigo, teal and purple throughout.  The octopus tattoo on her shoulder and the single spiral on her neck were the same bright indigo blue that streaked through her hair. Aiyan sported chopped, chin length brown hair with just a hint of blonde hues along with one teal streak that lay across his forehead. A gift from Aiya. Thankfully his three tattoos; an eagle, triskele and Celtic cross; were permanently placed with the same indigo coloring.  Where she was small he was tall, she exuded fragile he exuded strength.  Upon closer examination you would see the same facial structure, angled chin and plump cheeks, with the most dominating brown eyes you would ever see. Their mother Amelia and her father Sasha carried the same almost unique brown eyes. Mia was a mere 5’2, shorter even than Aiya, with matching white blonde hair and a slightly more angular chin than the twins. Her small frame carried more curves than the road that circled Gaeland, to say she was a voluptuous beauty would be an understatement. 

Making their way through the palace she walked right past the entrance to the gym.  This room housed every form of exercise imaginable.  Fencing, swords, archery, weights, ballet and martial arts were practiced almost daily in the oversized room.  Aiyan stopped short, “I thought we were going to spar?” he asked, his brow furrowed.  “We are, outside.”  “Oh- Joy.” he murmered.  She chuckled as they rounded the corner and a slight tingle in her ankle accompanied with the visual of the gym brought a distant memory to mind.

Aiya had gone with Rian and Raven to the forest for a day of hunting.  Her father Rian allowed her and Aiyan the most freedom, and she was running around like an uncaged animal. They rarely got to be children in the confines of the palace walls, their mother Maya wouldn’t have it. Their studies were of utmost importance as they were to take over the parents duties one day, one day very soon actually. She recalled the memory with vivid detail and even moved to rub her ankle it was so vivid. 

Rian and Raven took turns grabbing her by her arms and spinning her in circles, at the time Raven was only fifteen or so but he had already nearly reached his six foot frame he now carried. Still dizzy and giggling she didn’t pay attention to the roots from the tree at her backside, exposed and protruding from the ground. She turned to run and three steps in just when she was gaining momentum she twisted her ankle and fell with an ear splitting shriek. Rian dropped his bow and scooped her up immediately, her tiny eight year old frame nearly invisible in his huge arms, shushing her. She’d twisted her ankle and to this day, she still felt an occasional pang of pain from it. 

When they’d returned to the palace she overheard her fathers discussing a similar incident with Aiyan when he and their father Cirian were fencing. He simply dropped on the matt and screamed in agony grabbing his ankle.  Similar incidents happened over the years, but the twins rarely spoke of it to their parents, it always upset Maya and they avoided this whenever possible. Rian and Mia were the biological parents of the twins but their spouses, Cirian and Maya, were definitely the dominate parents.

Oblivious to their surroundings they didn’t even notice the commotion around them. The boat carrying their matches and their families had arrived ahead of schedule. The palace was on alert finishing the final preparations for their guests. As they headed out to the cliff side to the matt, Maya and Rian made their way to their rooms to let them know about the change in plans. “He’s not in his room, and I didn’t see him in the kitchen when we passed there either.” Maya swung around and glared at him. “Aiya’s gone as well. What the hell are YOUR children up to this time?!”  She turned not awaiting his response, and huffed back down the hall fuming. Rian followed close behind laughing at her.

Aiya sat on the matt with her legs stretched out in front of her, fingers on her toes as she rocked back and forth loosening the muscles. They would not start sparring until they completed a series of stretches, or they wouldn’t be able to walk afterwards. She eyed her brother, stretched out beside her curiously. “Are you nervous?” she asked. Aiyan gathered his thoughts before answering. “Not really.  Well, maybe a little.  It’s not like we have any choice in the matter, so why stress out about it, you know.”  She smirked and nodded.  Today was the day they would meet their matches face to face for the first time.  Aiya had been matched with Maeve from House Orion, and Aiyan with Kaden the prince of House Devi three years ago at the age of sixteen.  They’d seen pictures of them, but they’d never actually met.  The traditions of matching were strictly followed by all the parents. “I guess the only thing that worries me is that he will be standoffish or conceited. I want a partner Aiya, not another servant. And I definitely don’t need one more person to tell me what to do!”she nodded in silent agreement. “I want what our parents have, when they think no one is watching.” This time she laughed as she stood, offering her hand to her brother.  He latched on and just as he was pushing up off the mat, she playfully shoved him back down. “Oh, that’s how it’s gonna be huh?”

So, I hope you like what you see and you'll grab a copy here in a few days when Opposites is available via Amazon, Smashwords and hopefully Barnes & Noble in ebook form. Again, I apologize for the delay and do hope you will all bear with me while I get the book into tip top shape for you!

 

Read More

he's GONE blog tour.. Top 10 with author Deb Caletti, Spotlight & Giveaway

“What do you think happened to your husband, Mrs. Keller?”
The Sunday morning starts like any other, aside from the slight hangover. Dani Keller wakes up on her Seattle houseboat, a headache building behind her eyes from the wine she drank at a party the night before. But on this particular Sunday morning, she’s surprised to see that her husband, Ian, is not home. As the hours pass, Dani fills her day with small things. But still, Ian does not return. Irritation shifts to worry, worry slides almost imperceptibly into panic. And then, like a relentless blackness, the terrible realization hits Dani: He’s gone.

As the police work methodically through all the logical explanations—he’s hurt, he’s run off, he’s been killed—Dani searches frantically for a clue as to whether Ian is in fact dead or alive. And, slowly, she unpacks their relationship, holding each moment up to the light: from its intense, adulterous beginning, to the grandeur of their new love, to the difficulties of forever.
She examines all the sins she can—and cannot—remember. As the days pass, Dani will plumb the depths of her conscience, turning over and revealing the darkest of her secrets in order to discover the hard truth—about herself, her husband, and their lives together.

Deb Caletti is an award-winning author and a National Book Award finalist whose books
are published and translated worldwide. Her first novel was The Queen of Everything
(Simon & Schuster, 2002),of which a starred review in Publisher’s Weekly proclaimed:
“This marks Caletti as a writer to watch.” Although written for adults, its coming-of-age
themes gained it acclaim as a Y/A book. It made the cover of the esteemed review
journal The Bulletin for the Center of Children’s Books (the first trade book to do so
in the journal’s history), and then was chosen for PSLA’s Top Forty of 2003 and the
International Reading Association’s Young Adult Choices for 2004. It is currently in its thirteenth printing.

Deb’s second book, Honey, Baby, Sweetheart, was a finalist for the National Book Award. Kirkus called it, “tender and poetic,” and the book earned other distinguished recognition, including the PNBA Best Book Award, the Washington State Book Award, and School Library Journal’s Best Book award. It was a finalist for the California Young Reader Medal and the PEN USA Literary Award, and was also a 2005 IRA Notable Book, an SSLI Book Awards Honor Book, and made the New York Public Library’s Best Books for the Teen Age, Chicago Library’s Best Books of 2004, and the Texas TAYSHA’s list. Her third book, Wild Roses, won acclaim with starred reviews in Publisher’s Weekly, which deemed it, “rich,” and School Library Journal, which said the
book was “multifaceted and emotionally devastating,” with “profound observations and vivid language.” It was a finalist for the Washington State Book Award and was chosen as a New York Public Library Book for the Teen Age and a RT Book Club Magazine’s finalist for Best Y/A Book of 2005. The Nature of Jade was a summer 2007 Booksense pick, a Books A Million Book Club selection, and was a finalist for RT Magazine’s Best Y/A Book of the Year.
Her fifth book, The Fortunes of Indigo Skye, was released April 2008, followed by The Secret Life of Prince Charming in 2009, The Six Rules of Maybe in 2010, Stay in 2011, and The Story of Us in 2012. In addition, several anthologies include work by Deb,
including “First Kiss, Then Tell,” a Bloomsbury anthology benefiting NPR Youth Radio, and two collections of non-fiction critical essays developed by Borders Books: “The World of the Golden Compass” and “Through the Wardrobe: Your Favorite Authors on C.S. Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia.” In 2013, Deb’s first book for adults, He’s Gone, will be released from Random House.
Deb grew up in the San Francisco Bay area and earned her journalism degree from the
University of Washington in Seattle. When Deb is not writing books or reading them,
she is a painter and a lyricist, and speaks widely to audiences on writing and life as an
author. Deb lives with her family in Seattle.

 

Top 10 least favorite literature villains from author Deb Caletti:

1. Darth Vader: Because my dog sometimes breathes like him.
2. Cruella de Vil: Because when I close my eyes, and I see her driving that car with her
wild hair, I am still scared. And, come on, PUPPIES?!
3. The Hunter Who Killed Bambi’s Mother: Bad man.
4. Veruca Salt: Spoiled blueberry who got what was coming to her.
5. Heathcliff: Hate him for teaching endless young women to think moody boys are
romantic.
6. The flying monkeys in The Wizard of Oz: Okay, not exactly “people,” but the most
frightening infamous creatures ever.
7. Annie in Misery, the obsessed reader who ties that poor writer to the bed:
Enough said.
8. Humbert Humbert of Lolita: Just, ick.
9. Alec and Angel in Tess of the D’Urbervilles: Dear Tess. One time, it’s a mistake.
Twice, it’s a pattern.
10. Snow White’s stepmother. In the Grimm’s version, she wants to eat Snow White’s
liver and lungs. Dessert, anyone?

he's Gone book trailer

    

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Author spotlight Carter Quinn, The Way Back. Guest Post & Giveaway.

** Warning, this is an adults only M/M Contemporary Romance **

 

In freshman year, Riley Evans met the best friends he ever thought he'd have, Jason and Eric. But then his friendship with Eric turned into something much more. That relationship ended almost as soon as it began, and Riley hasn't let anyone near his heart since. Until now.

When Riley needed him most, Jason helped pick up the pieces. Six years later, he's once again part of Riley's life. Riley is slowly letting Jason past his defenses and is starting to see how good they are together. They're even planning a romantic weekend getaway. Then, out of the blue, Eric calls, claiming he wants Riley back.

Riley has been dreaming about Eric for six years, but suddenly he can't he stop thinking of Jason. Jason, who has always been there when Riley needs him-who puts Riley's happiness above his own, even if that means his own heart will suffer. Jason insists Riley face his old feelings for Eric to make sure they're really gone. But are they? If Riley can't learn from his mistakes, he may be destined to repeat them-and Jason won't wait forever.

 

I loved this book! I laughed, I cried, I laughed while I cried.. this book is just a complete plethora of emotion.

Riley Evans has finally found happiness with his long time friend, Jason. It was a long road travelled to get to where they are. Six years ago Riley was in love with Jason’s brother, Eric. In denial about not only himself, but his feelings for Riley as well, Eric broke something inside Riley when he left and married a women. Jason has only just come back into Riley’s life and is helping him rebuild his broken heart when Eric calls out of the blue, telling Riley he wants him back.

I was thankful that Riley didn’t try to hide anything form Jason, he was open and honest with him from the start. Riley isn’t quite ready to give Eric that second chance at his recently mended heart, but he’s spent the last six years wondering what if? Jason knows that if Riley doesn’t deal with the situation he will always wonder, so he makes Riley promise to meet his brother and then decide if he wants to give him a second chance.

My heart broke slap in half as Jason had to watch his brother court the man he loved. Jason had already buried his feelings for Riley once for the sake of his brother, and what he thought Riley wanted. Now he has to know definitively if Riley loves him, his brother, or the shadow of the man Riley thinks Eric is. Has Riley found the man he needs with Jason? Or is this second chance with Eric opening the door for them to finally be together? Or is Riley so screwed up that he ends up pushing both men away, destined to be alone and miserable?

I will tell you that you will get your HEA, I just can’t tell you who exactly gets that HEA. I loved the author’s ability to make the reader actually feel what the characters were feeling throughout the story. Definitely an emotionally wrought, passionate and intense read, with a lot of ups and downs. Riley grows so much throughout the story, and I loved his character development. He was flawed but real and unsure of himself, what he felt. But once he figures out who he is, therefore exactly who he’s meant to be with, he will stop at nothing to attain his goal.

Must read for fans of the genre, but I’d recommend this one to those hard core romantic readers as well. There is some hot as hell guy action, let me tell you! The “bareback” scene is my absolute favorite. But the lunchtime scene is a close second. Quinn managed to keep the story light with a bit of humor, like Riley’s best friends husband (I did not need that visual!) and some quirky anicdotes (helium!) as well.

 

Carter Quinn was born and raised in a very small Western Kansas town where cattle vastly outnumber humans. Because he’s contrary by nature, upon graduating high school, he went East, young man, hoping to find more people like him (shh: the gays!). After stints living in places as different as Omaha, Nebraska, and Ft Lauderdale, Florida, he settled in Lawrence, Kansas, and attended the University of Kansas (Rock Chalk!). Although he still bleeds (Crimson and) Blue, Carter recently relocated to Colorado where he can be closer to his beloved Colorado Avalanche. He is the paw-picked human companion of the sweetest dog on the planet, a Beagle-surprise mix named Yashe.

 

For more info about this author, visit his website.

Quinn has a couple of free short stories available on his site as well..

In the Crease and I'm every Goalie

 

Guest Post Spotlight with Author Carter Quinn. Music as an Influence in writing.

 

Hello, everybody. First, I want to thank Tams for having me here and for requesting to

review The Way Back. It amazes and humbles me that almost a year after publication, people are

still picking it up. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have you all read Riley, Jason and Eric’s

story. Anyone who knows me will attest to the fact that I’m a little bit…quirky. Hey, you try

having a bunch of hot gay men in your head, jostling with each other to tell their stories and see

how quirky you become! One of the quirks that I fully embrace is my love for, and the influence

upon me of, music.

 

My older sisters like to tell the story about how, as a three-year-old who couldn’t read, I

could unerringly bring them the 45 RPM records they requested. Somehow I could distinguish

between “Island Girls,” “Running on Empty,” and “Don’t Go Breaking’ My Heart.” I’d like to

think I was a boy genius, but if that’s true, what the hell happened to me?

 

 

 

As Trisha Yearwood sang in 1993, the song remembers when. So it shouldn’t come as

any shock that the writing of The Way Back was greatly assisted by music. You know that one

scene where Jason does that thing he didn’t mean to do? Thank Melissa Etheridge’s “Similar

Features.” Or that lunchtime blowjob? INXS. Good lord, I’ll never hear “Pretty Vegas” again

without thinking of that scene. What I had forgotten until a few minutes ago was that the book

was inspired by Dolly Parton’s “Once in a Very Blue Moon.” I heard the song and wondered

just what would happen if my very own version of Eric reappeared. The story grew from there,

though Eric surprised me by being a better man than I had envisioned.

 

 

 

But back to the music.  When I was floundering for a short story to write for the Cup

of Porn birthday bash, I put the iPod on shuffle and went outside to clear my mind. Whitney

Houston’s “I’m Every Woman” came on and Trick practically knocked me down screaming so

hard about how that was him—he was every goalie! I still love that part of the story.

 

For the last two years, I’ve been working on my next book,  Out of the Blackness. I

thought I had it finished in October, right after GRL, but after some feedback from a couple of

fantastic beta readers, I realized a major rewrite was in order. Because Avery, my protagonist,

is in such a dark place, it was exceedingly difficult to get back into that mindset. I struggled for

months, trying to force myself to work on it, but allowing myself almost any out not to. Two

weeks ago, I changed the music on my iPod (it runs 24/7 as background music) and suddenly I

was right there, inside Avery’s head, ready to go. I made major progress for the first time since

finishing the first draft. With any luck, I should have it finished by the end of June.

 

After that, I’ll start on Eric’s story, The Way Forward. That one is inspired by a song,

too. I can’t wait to write that scene. What song? Oh, you’ll just have to wait to find out! So what

about you? How does music inspire your creativity or even just your daily coping skills? 

 

 

 

So there are the links for some of the songs Quinn listed in his post that were instrumental in the writing process for The Way Back. After reading the novel my song for Riley and Jason is Pink featuring FUN, Just Give Me A Reason. Thank you so much author Carter Quinn for sharing your musical inspirations with us today, until next time!

 

 

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Shattered Illusions blog tour. Spotlight, Author Interview & Giveaway

When Sam, the unassuming, salt-of-the-earth proprietor of a local cafe is shot dead on the street, four strangers become the unwitting witnesses to a seemingly inscrutable crime. As the investigation progresses, this quartet of accidental onlookers find themselves not only haunted by the homicide, but pursued by their own pasts.

The deeper into the death they delve, the further into their own personal histories they plummet, as each is forced to face the fact that the loss of Sam is far from their most devastating. As the case continues, inner anguish reaches crescendo points for Danny, Ella, Marco, and Sarah as the answers they want continue to elude them, and the evidence they want to escape refuses to retreat...

Shattered Illusions/ Goodreads



Leigh Hershkovich's writing career began almost at infancy. Born and raised in The City By The Bay, Leigh was never seen without a pen and paper by her side, and was never without a story to share. With her vivid imagination and sharp writing tactics, Leigh has taken the world by storm twice over. Now, with her debut novel Shattered Illusions, readers will get a first time glimpse into her first full fiction attempt.
​
An avid reader, accomplished pianist, passionate scholar of language and the arts, Leigh currently resides in New York with her imagination.

Follow Leigh on www + Facebook + Goodreads



*Tell us about yourself.  Where were you born and where do you call home?

I was born and raised in San Francisco, California. Currently home is Brooklyn, New York.

*What was your inspiration for Shattered Illusions?

My inspiration for Shattered Illusions came from a couple of things. I was reading a fantastic book called The Angels Game, and one of the themes of the book struck a cord with me. I decided to follow the theme through with my own ideas, and see where it would go. It ended up becoming a full length novel! 

*For those who are unfamiliar with your novel; Shattered Illusions, how would you introduce it?

Shattered Illusions is a psychology novel disguised as a murder mystery. It follows a group of strangers during a crime investigation which, for one reason or another, they all becoming directly a part of. The story is told through the perspectives of these individuals as they deal with the consequences of their actions. 

*What are the Pro's and Con's to being a published Author?

Oh, that's a tough one. The pros are endless. It is such a great accomplishment, one that I am so proud to say I reached at such a young age. The major con is that, what people don't realize is that being a published author is not the be all and end all. I was thoroughly convinced that my life would somehow magically turn into something else, which it didn't. The beauty in it is recognizing the accomplishment but not basing my life on this sole event. 

*What was the first thing you did when you got the news you was being published? 

I was helping my sister get ready for a date the night that I found out. I calmly helped her get ready, then proceeded to cry, dance and then throw up. There were a lot of intense emotions involved there.  

*Whom in your life would you say has influenced you the most?

The person that has most influenced me is my mom. She has the strength of fifty, yet she's so quiet and humble. I wish I could take my life experiences and handle them as she has handled hers. 

*Who is YOUR favorite Author?

My all time favorite is Roberto Bolano.

*What are you reading right now?

I'm actually in the middle of three books. 1) Parades End by Ford Maddox Ford 2) Musicophilia by Dr Oliver Sacks 3) The Marriage Plot by Jeffery Euginides.

*Tell us your latest news

I'm arranging my own book tour for this summer, which I am looking forward to and very nervous about! 

~ A huge thank you to Hershkovich for sharing her book and her time with us! Be sure to enter the giveaway below for a chance to win a signed copy of Shattered Illusions! ~

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Hiding in Plain Sight blog tour... excerpt, playlist & giveaway.

First Book in Series Title: Worlds Apart
Series Name: Silver Oaks Series
Third Book in Series Title – Coming Fall 2013: Spitfire

Graham Reynolds has always taken on the role of the protector in his family. He’s a hard working DEA agent but he has a secret that he’s been keeping his whole life — he can jump to a parallel universe. It’s on one of these jumps that he faces an impossible dilemma. Will he make it in time to save his half sister from the wrath of a mad man? Will Graham be able to deal with the consequences of his actions?

Lily Bennett is the girl next door that Graham remembers as the shy, quiet childhood friend. All grown up, Lily is now a powerful CFO of her family's business. Graham saved Lily once when they were children but now Lily may be the only one who can save Graham from his past. Will she be able to pull him out of his darkness and back to her or will he be forever hiding in plain sight?


Social Media Sites:
Follow Mathias on Facebook
Follow Mathias on Goodreads
Hiding in Plain Sight’s Link: Goodreads
Worlds Apart Link: Goodreads
Hiding in Plain Sight Link: Amazon
Worlds Apart Link: Amazon



Kate Mathias is former elementary teacher and real estate agent. She enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three children.
Fun Facts about the Author:
I've been skydiving and have flown a small airplane.
My dad's a pilot and I've taken a plane off numerous times.
I'm an adventure junkie and love the thrill of roller coasters and anything that moves high and fast.
I can't get enough of sweets and often have dessert after breakfast.
I don't drink coffee or tea.
I'm a night owl and tend to stay up every night until midnight even during the week.
My family and friends always come first and I'm dedicated to other's happiness almost to a fault.


Excerpt from Hiding in Plain Sight:
“Hi,” She glanced up at Graham and slowly licked her bottom lip. Her eyes had gone from a warm brown to a dark liquid color that threatened to drown Graham. “Hi yourself,” he took a hold of her chin with his thumb and traced a small circle on her jaw line. Bending his head, he slowly brushed his lips on hers and was instantly met with a current that seemed to stir him all the way to his stomach. He craved her like no other, but also wanted to take his time and enjoy every curve of her soft skin, every crease he needed to memorize.
He inhaled her sweet smell and seemed to hold his breath as her scent filled every inch of his being. With both of his hands free, he wrapped them around her lower back and bunched a handful of material in his fist. Graham pulled her into his body, feeling her warmth and softness, which threatened to take all of his senses over the edge.
His tongue joined hers and in a slow dance with one another’s mouths, he hungrily deepened the kiss until he could hear his heart beating in his ears. Graham could be satisfied kissing and drinking in her lips for days, but Lily broke away from him slowly.
Looking up at him through her eyelashes, she bent down and slipped off her heel on one foot and then removing the other one, she let it drop to the floor. She never took her eyes off of Graham and watched him watching her.
Reaching up and pulling her hair so it fell to one side, she slowly untied the knot on the halter dress behind her neck.
Graham watched as the material slipped down and seemed to free-fall past her curvy hips to land in a heap on the floor.

 

 

 

 





a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More