Tag Archives: romance
Soul Unleashed ~ Release Day & GIVEAWAY
FIGHTING FATE HAS CONSEQUENCES
Filed under Giveaway, Key to the Cursed
Author Open MIC: Best Selling Author Cate Beauman + Answers for Julie Giveaway
Cate Beauman is back with the ninth installment in her bestselling romantic suspense series, The Bodyguards of L.A. County. Answers for Julie is on sale now through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes, Kobo, and more!
Click Cover and Buy Today!
About the book
Julie Keller relishes the simple things: hot chocolate on winter nights, good friends she calls her family, and her laid-back career as a massage therapist and yoga instructor. Julie is content with her life until Chase Rider returns to Bakersfield.
Bodyguard Chase Rider isn’t thrilled to be back in the town where he spent his childhood summers. His beloved grandmother passed away, leaving him a house in need of major repairs. With a three-week timetable and a lot to do, he doesn’t have time for distractions. Then he bumps into Julie, the one woman he hoped never to see again. Chase tries to pretend Julie doesn’t exist, but ten years hasn’t diminished his attraction to the hazel-eyed stunner.
When a stranger grabs Julie’s arm at the grocery store—a woman who insists Julie’s life isn’t what it seems, Chase can’t help but get involved. Julie and Chase dig into a twenty-five-year-old mystery, unearthing more questions than answers. But the past is closer than they realize, and the consequences of the truth have the potential to be deadly.
Amazon:
Barnes & Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1122154741?ean=2940151336468
Kobo:
iBooks:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/answers-for-julie-book-nine/id1007575788?ls=1&mt=11
The inspiration behind Answers For Julie:
I often get my story ideas from watching crime documentaries, but the plot for Answers For Julie came together after I read some sobering FBI statistics in a magazine about the odds of a missing child coming home. Unfortunately, many children are lost forever. The wheels began spinning quickly after that, and a few weeks later, the story was well on its way.
I hope you enjoy Julie and Chase as much as I enjoyed writing them! ~ Cate
Read an excerpt from Answers For Julie:
She frowned, glancing in her rearview mirror when someone honked. Gasping, she cringed, bracing herself for a nasty impact as a car approached fast from behind. When the vehicle barely missed hers, she accelerated, making space for the bully to go around, but the navy blue BMW moved closer to her bumper.
She punched the gas, moving over to the final right-hand lane. The car sped up directly to her left, until the dark tint of the passenger’s window was even with her driver’s side. Julie pressed on her brake, slowing on the damp roads, hoping the car would move on, but it decreased its speed as she did. “What are you doing?”
Unsure of what to do, she jerked her rental toward the upcoming off ramp. The car followed, closing the distance between them, and rammed her back door, forcing her closer to the guardrail. She screamed, veering hard to the left, barely avoiding a collision with metal and a plummet to the busy road several hundred feet below.
The vehicle sped off as she slammed on her brakes and sat where she was, closing her eyes and gasping in several breaths. She flinched and screamed again, her eyes flying open as a red Camero honked as it swerved to miss hitting her.
Trembling, she accelerated to the bottom of the off-ramp, knowing that if she didn’t move she would cause an accident. She braked at the stoplight, her teeth chattering and her eyes darting around, on the lookout for the BMW. There was no way that was some random act of road rage. She could no longer claim that the instances in Massachusetts were a string of bad luck. Chase was right. Someone was trying to hurt her, and she still needed his help.
Did you enjoy the excerpt? You can read the first chapter on my website, www.catebeauman.com, or you can finish the whole book here!
About the author:
Cate currently lives in North Carolina with her husband, their two boys, and St. Bernard’s, Bear and Jack. She is the author of the international bestselling and award winning romantic suspense series, Bodyguards of L.A. County. Before her career as an author, Cate worked in special education for 12 years.
“I’m a pretty lucky girl; one day I woke up and my entire life changed. I saw the light, so to speak, and decided I was going to be a writer. Now, five years later, I’m working on my tenth novel! I’m remain so very grateful for the support and success that I have had. Thank you!” – Cate
SIGN UP FOR CATE’S NEWSLETTER TO BE NOTIFIED OF MONTHLY GIVEAWAY OFFERS
http://www.catebeauman.com/#!newsletter-sign-up/c9td
Contact Cate
Amazon Author Page
http://www.amazon.com/Cate-Beauman/e/B00A05KHVM/
Social links:
E-Book/s Giveaway Contest – Answers for Julie
(5 ebooks up for grabs)
Want to read this book? Enter contest HERE!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
******
Get the Series
Buy the Series Today!
The Bodyguards of L.A. County
Filed under Author Open Mic, Events, Giveaway
Author Open MIC: Welcome Best Selling Author Cate Beauman + Reagan’s Redemption Book & The “Glacier” Swarovski Crystal Set Giveaway
Cate Beauman is back with the eight installment in her bestselling romantic suspense series, The Bodyguards of L.A. County. Reagan’s Redemption is on sale now through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes, Kobo, and more!
About the book
BUY TODAY on AMAZON
Doctor Reagan Rosner loves her fast-paced life of practicing medicine in New York City’s busiest trauma center. Kind and confident, she’s taking her profession by storm—until a young girl’s accidental death leaves her shaken to her core. With her life a mess and her future uncertain, Reagan accepts a position as Head Physician for The Appalachia Project, an outreach program working with some of America’s poorest citizens.
Shane Harper, Ethan Cooke Security’s newest team member, has been assigned a three-month stint deep in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky, and he’s not too happy about it. Guarding a pill safe in the middle of nowhere is boring as hell, but when he gets a look at his new roommate, the gorgeous Doctor Rosner, things start looking up.
Shane and Reagan encounter more than a few mishaps as they struggle to gain the trust of a reluctant community. They’re just starting to make headway when a man’s routine checkup exposes troubling secrets the town will do anything to keep hidden—even if that means murder.
Read an excerpt from Reagan’s Redemption
The front door opened and closed. “Shane?”
“Down here.”
Reagan hurried in, her eyes full of excitement. “How are things going?”
“Good. Faith is clean, eating, and will hopefully be sleeping in the next couple of minutes.”
“I can take a turn. I know I’ve been gone for awhile.”
He shook his head. “We’re fine. Looks like you’ve had a run today.”
She smiled. “Two patients—one ear infection and a strep throat.”
“Good stuff.”
She nodded, sitting on the edge of the mattress. “That’s not the best part. I was talking with Jodi, Josiah’s mother, about her gardens—trying to break the ice a little. She was telling me how she grows some of the best corn around but constantly has trouble with her beans. Apparently, Sue Anne’s family seems to have the opposite issue.” She swiped her hair behind her ear. “Anyway, while Jodi was talking, I got this idea. I was thinking we could organize an evening where families can get together here at the clinic and swap fruits and vegetables for a bigger variety of healthful foods—kind of like a farmer’s market. We can offer some simple snacks and drinks, and I’m hoping I might be able to throw in a few nutrition facts while we’re at it. There are so many kiddos with bad teeth. They’re drinking too much soda.”
“Sounds like you’ve got a plan. Go get ‘em, tiger.” He liked seeing her like this—her eyes bright, her hands punctuating certain words as they spilled from her mouth, caught up in her own enthusiasm.
“I will.” Her smile dimmed as she touched Faith’s toes peeking out from the blanket. “But I don’t know how many people will come.”
“So you won’t have standing-room only on your first try.”
She licked her lips. “They’re afraid.”
He frowned. “Who?”
“The people here. They’re frightened by either me or the clinic.”
“Why do you say that?”
She shrugged. “I don’t know. That was the sense I got when I spoke with Jenny’s mother and then again with Jodi.”
He remembered Mrs. Hendley’s weird spewings about heeding warnings and staying away, but she also seemed like a bit of a whack job. “I don’t know, Doc. When I look at you ‘intimidating’ isn’t exactly the first word that comes to mind.”
“Maybe not to you, but they were certainly uneasy. Maybe I’m trying to make sense of an unusual situation, but I don’t think so. Both women kept looking toward the trees, like they were being watched or something.” She shuddered. “It gave me the willies.”
“We’ll keep an eye on the situation, but things have been pretty low key so far.”
She nodded. “I just really want this to work. I can help this town if they’ll let me.”
Did you enjoy the excerpt? You can read the first chapter on my website, www.catebeauman.com, or you can finish the whole book here!
The Inspiration Behind Reagan’s Redemption
I’ve wanted to tell Reagan and Shane’s story for quite a while now, but I kept putting it off, knowing where the weeks of research would take me. Reagan Rosner is a doctor, which is great for her but not so much for me as the writer. Unfortunately, I’m a bit of a hypochondriac who is afflicted with White Coat Syndrome. Typically, I stay as far away from anything “medical” as possible, but for Reagan’s Redemption I had to dig deep and conquer a personal demon or two. There were many days where I cringed, watching how-to videos on IV insertions and blood draws and hyperventilated my way through more than one resuscitation tutorial, but I did it, making Reagan’s character all the more stronger for it.
After the days of dreadful research, I really knuckled down and got to work. I had so much fun with this story. Reagan is kind and dedicated and Shane extremely funny. This couple complements each other well, which is perfect because they’ll face more than their fair share of trouble in Black Bear Gap, Kentucky.
I hope you enjoy Reagan and Shane as much as I enjoyed writing them!
~ Cate
Music to write by…
Here are a few of the songs that I had on “repeat” while I created Reagan and Shane’s story! You can listen to them on my website www.catebeauman.com.
The soundtrack, of sorts, for Reagan’s Redemption:
- Devil Town by Tony Lucca
- So Easy by Phillip Phillips
- Not A Bad Thing by Justin Timberlake
- Science and Faith by The Script
- Daylight by Maroon Five
- Hazy by Rosi Golan ft. William Fitzimmons
- Get Out by Casey Abrams
- First Flight Home by Jake Miller
- Human by Jon McLaughlin
- Have A Little Faith In Me by Jewel
- Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran
- Parachute by Train
About the author
Cate currently lives in North Carolina with her husband, their two boys, and St. Bernard’s, Bear and Jack. She is the author of the best selling romantic suspense series, The Bodyguards of L.A. County. Before her career as an author, Cate worked in special education for 12 years.
“I’m a pretty lucky girl; one day I woke up and my entire life changed. I saw the light, so to speak, and decided I was going to be a writer. Now, five years later, I’m working on my ninth novel, Answers For Julie, which I plan to release during the summer of 2015. I’m remain so very grateful for the support and success that I have had. Thank you!” – Cate
SIGN UP FOR CATE’S NEWSLETTER TO BE NOTIFIED OF NEW RELEASES AND MONTHLY GIVEAWAY OFFERS
http://www.catebeauman.com/#!newsletter-sign-up/c9td
Cate’s Links
Amazon Author Page
http://www.amazon.com/Cate-Beauman/e/B00A05KHVM/
Social links:
Twitter: @CateBeauman
http://www.catebeauman.com
http://www.facebook.com/CateBeauman
http://www.goodreads.com/catebeauman
E-Book/s Giveaway Contest – Reagan’s Redemption
(6 ebooks up for grabs)
Why wait? Start the series today…
Want to read this book? Enter contest HERE!
Comment Below: What is your all time favorite hospital/medical based TV-show?
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ANOTHER GIVEAWAY –
******
Get the Series
BUY SERIES TODAY
The Bodyguards of L.A. County
Filed under Author Open Mic, Events, Giveaway
Author Open MIC: Welcome Best Selling Author Cate Beauman + Saving Sophie Giveaway
Cate Beauman is back with the seventh installment in her bestselling romantic suspense series, The Bodyguards of L.A. County.
Saving Sophie is on sale now through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and iTunes!
Buy it now!
About the book
When the only choice is to run…
Jewelry designer Sophie Burke has fled Maine for the anonymity of the big city. She’s starting over with a job she tolerates and a grungy motel room she calls home on the wrong side of town, but anything is better than the nightmare she left behind.
Stone McCabe is Ethan Cooke Security’s brooding bad boy more interested in keeping to himself than anything else—until the gorgeous blond with haunted violet eyes catches his attention late one rainy night.
Stone reluctantly gives Sophie a hand only to quickly realize that the shy beauty with the soft voice and pretty smile has something to hide. Tangled up in her secrets, Stone offers Sophie a solution that has the potential to free her from her problems once and for all—or jeopardize both of their lives.
Read an excerpt from Saving Sophie
Sophie glanced around one last time at the town she’d called home for more than twelve years as Dylan merged south on the onramp towards Brunswick, knowing she would never come back to the place where she and her mother had made their fresh start.
“Your train leaves at nine. We should make it in plenty of time.”
“I’ve never traveled by train.”
“Me neither.” Dylan moved into the right lane, letting faster traffic pass. “Have you decided where you’ll go?”
She shook her head, even though she’d thought of little else since she woke this morning, knowing today had to be the day. “Somewhere big. Somewhere where he can’t find me.” She swallowed. “He’ll look. He’ll never stop,” she said, staring into the side mirror, waiting for the black Mercedes to rush up behind them and force them to pull over. “You have to be careful.”
Dylan huffed out an amused laugh. “That bastard doesn’t scare me.”
She wished he didn’t scare her either. “Be careful anyway.”
“I will, but he’s a coward.”
“No more than me,” she murmured, glancing down at the hints of bruised skin peeking out from under her sleeves.
Dylan tossed her a look. “Don’t go there.”
She sat back fully in her seat, unable to take her eyes off the mirror until Dylan eventually exited the interstate and drove toward the center of town, stopping in front of the Amtrak station as the train pulled up.
“Looks like you won’t have to wait.” She set the emergency brake and searched through her purse. “Here’s my license.” She handed over the Maine ID and paper ticket she’d bought and printed when Sophie gave her the green light from her kiosk at the mall. “We don’t look all that different with your wig, so this should get you your next ticket in Boston.”
“Thank you.” Sophie leaned over and gave Dylan a big hug. “Thank you so much. I wouldn’t have been able to do this without you.”
“Don’t look back, Sophie.” Dylan eased away, squeezing her hand. “Get out of here and never look back. Here are the phone numbers for the Stowers house shelters in Baltimore and LA I told you about—just in case.” She handed over the March copy of Trendy magazine with papers sticking out from the edges.
“Thanks. Please don’t forget to put flowers on my mother’s grave.”
“I won’t.”
She nodded and hugged Dylan for the last time. “Bye.”
“Bye. Take care of yourself.”
“I will.” Sophie got out, sliding her backpack on her shoulder as she made her way to the bored-eyed man at the ticket kiosk.
“Ticket and ID, Ma’am.”
Sophie handed over both, holding her breath, waiting for her plan to fall apart.
“Safe trip.” He gave them back.
“Thank you,” she murmured, letting loose a shaky exhale as she turned and moved toward the train, wanting to run instead of walk. She boarded the first available car and stared out the window as she sat down, watching Dylan pull out of the lot in the rusty hatchback, already missing the only person she’d had a connection with. She bobbed her leg up and down, struggling to keep her fidgeting at bay. Minutes passed, feeling like hours, until finally the doors closed. The train jerked forward, moving toward Boston—the first stop on her journey to freedom.
Did you enjoy the excerpt? You can read the first chapter on my website, www.catebeauman.com, or you can finish the whole book here!
The Inspiration Behind Saving Sophie
Stone and Sophie are as opposite as can be—or so it seems—and that’s why telling their story was so much fun! Readers met Stone in Justice For Abby. He’s a gorgeous bad boy, more interested in taking care of himself than worrying about anyone else. Stone’s a hard-ass. There’s no other way to say it, but everyone has an achilles’ heel. That’s what drew me to Ethan Cooke Security’s latest bodyguard. I kept asking myself what type of woman had the power to bring a man like Stone McCabe to his knees. Enter Sophie Burke, a shy jewelry designer dealing with lots of trouble, and you just might have your answer.
I hope you enjoy Sophie and Stone as much as I enjoyed writing them!
~ Cate
The Unofficial Saving Sophie Soundtrack
Here are a few of the songs that I had on “repeat” while I created Stone and Sophie’s story! You can listen to them on my website www.catebeauman.com.
The soundtrack, of sorts, for Saving Sophie:
- Grey Street by Dave Matthews
- Sleep by Plumb
- Come To Me by The Goo Goo Dolls
- All I Want by Staind
- I’d Come For You by Nickelback
- Kiss Me by Ed Sheeran
- In My Veins by Andrew Belle
- Only You by Matthew Perryman Jones
- Feels Like Home by Chantal Kreviazuk
About the author
Cate currently lives in North Carolina with her husband, their two boys, and St. Bernards, Bear and Jack. She is the author of the best-selling romantic suspense series, The Bodyguards of L.A. County. Before her career as an author, Cate worked in special education for 12 years.
“I’m a pretty lucky girl; one day I woke up and my entire life changed. I saw the light, so to speak, and decided I was going to be a writer. Now, four years later, I’m currently working on my eighth novel, Reagan’s Redemption, which I plan to release in early spring of 2015. I’m very grateful for the support and success I’ve had.” – Cate
Contact Cate
Amazon Author Page
http://www.amazon.com/Cate-Beauman/e/B00A05KHVM/
Social links:
E-Book/s Giveaway Contest – Saving Sophie
(4 up for grabs)
Want to read this book?
Enter contest HERE!
Comment Below: What is your favorite gemstone or jewlrey?
******
Get the Series
The Bodyguards of L.A. County
Book One: Morgan’s Hunter, the story of Morgan and Hunter.
Morgan Taylor, D.C. socialite and wildlife biologist, leads a charmed life until everything changes with a phone call. Her research team has been found dead—slaughtered—in backcountry Montana.
As the case grows cold, Morgan is determined to unravel the mystery behind her friends’ gruesome deaths. Despite the dangers of a murderer still free, nothing will stand in her way, not even the bodyguard her father hires, L.A.’s top close protection agent, Hunter Phillips.
Sparks fly from the start when no-nonsense Hunter clashes with Morgan’s strong-willed independence. Their endless search for answers proves hopeless—until Hunter discovers the truth.
On the run and at the mercy of a madman, Morgan and Hunter must outsmart a killer to save their own lives.
“-one thing I noticed right away was Hunter is smoking hot. This author captured his attractiveness well. Many romance authors have said their main character was good looking, but this was one of the very few times where I thought, “Wow. He’s hot!” And let me tell you blonde-haired blue eyed guys are not my type. The author deserves some serious props here.” Raven Reviewer
Book Two: Falling For Sarah, the story of Sarah and Ethan. 
Widow Sarah Johnson struggled to pick up the pieces after her life was ripped apart. After two years of grieving, she’s found contentment in her thriving business as photographer to Hollywood’s A-list and in raising her angel-faced daughter, Kylee…until bodyguard and long-time friend Ethan Cooke changes everything with a searing moonlight kiss.
Sarah’s world turns upside down as she struggles with her unexpected attraction to Ethan and the guilt of betraying her husband’s memory. But when blue roses and disturbing notes start appearing on her doorstep, she has no choice but to lean on Ethan as he fights to save her from a stalker that won’t stop until he has what he prizes most.
“This story, although starting sad with Jake’s death, goes zero to sixty from there. A creepy, insane , psycho thrown in with HOT manly men always make for an awesome ride.” Inside BJ’s Head
Book Three: Hailey’s Truth, the story of Hailey and Austin.
Hailey Roberts has never had it easy. Despite the scars of a tragic childhood, she’s made a life for herself. As a part-time student and loving nanny, she yearns for a family of her own and reluctant Austin Casey, Ethan Cooke Security’s best close protection agent.
Hailey’s past comes back to haunt her when her long lost brother tracks her down, bringing his dangerous secrets with him. At an emotional crossroads, Hailey accepts a humanitarian opportunity that throws her together with Austin, taking her hundreds of miles from her troubles, or so she thinks.
What starts out as a dream come true quickly becomes a nightmare as violence erupts on the island of Cozumel. Young women are disappearing, community members are dying—and the carnage links back to her brother.
As Austin struggles to keep Hailey’s past from destroying her future, he’s forced to make a decision that could turn her against him, or worse cost them both their lives.
“WOW. My head is in a whirl from this one. From the high intensity of Suspense, down to the oh-so yummy Romance, by far, Hailey and Austin have the hottest freaking scenes of the three books! ~ It’s so good… or I’m so bad because–I hate to admit it–I reread the hotter than Hades scenes! I could read the entire novel again, and that’s rare for me.” Hammy
Book Four: Forever Alexa, the story of Alexa and Jackson. 
First grade teacher and single mother Alexa Harris is no stranger to struggle, but for once, things are looking up. The school year is over and the lazy days of summer are here. Mini-vacations and relaxing twilight barbeques are on the horizon until Alexa’s free-spirited younger sister vanishes.
Ransom calls and death threats force Alexa and her young daughter to flee their quiet home in Maryland. With nowhere else to turn, Alexa seeks the help of Jackson Matthews, Ethan Cooke Security’s Risk Assessment Specialist and the man who broke her heart.
With few leads to follow and Abby’s case going cold, Alexa must confess a shocking secret if she and Jackson have any hope of saving her sister from a hell neither could have imagined.
“FOREVER ALEXA is a book that is impossible to put down. I loved the first three books in this series, Morgan’s Hunter, Falling for Sarah and Hailey’s Truth, but FOREVER ALEXA is far and above my favorite in the series. That being said, I not only recommend but encourage readers of romantic suspense to give Ms. Beauman’s books a try…..you will not be disappointed!!!” NicoleMD
Book Five: Waiting For Wren, the story of Wren Cooke and Tucker Campbell.
Wren Cooke has everything she’s ever wanted—a thriving career as one of LA’s top interior designers and a home she loves. Business trips, mockups, and her demanding clientele keep her busy, almost too busy to notice Ethan Cooke Security’s gorgeous Close Protection Agent, Tucker Campbell.
Jaded by love and relationships in general, Wren wants nothing to do with the hazel-eyed stunner and his heart-stopping grins, but Tucker is always in her way. When Wren suddenly finds herself bombarded by a mysterious man’s unwanted affections, she’s forced to turn to Tucker for help.
As Wren’s case turns from disturbing to deadly, Tucker whisks her away to his mountain home in Utah. Haunted by memories and long-ago tragedies, Tucker soon realizes his past and Wren’s present are colliding. With a killer on the loose and time running out, Tucker must discover a madman’s motives before Wren becomes his next victim.
“My heart raced from the suspense and from the romance. The characters, and their love story, are believable. As the series develops, I feel like I know these characters and find myself turning the page to find out more. This series just keeps getting better. The author crafts characters that are true-to-life and creates moments of such sheer suspense that I find myself turning on all of the lights in the house just to make sure I’m alone.” Robert John Baron
Book Six: Justice For Abby, the story of Abigail Harris and Jerrod Quinn. 
Fashion designer Abigail Harris has been rescued, but her nightmare is far from over. Determined to put her harrowing ordeal behind her and move on, she struggles to pick up the pieces of her life while eluding the men who want her dead.
The Mid-Atlantic Sex Ring is in ruins after Abby’s interviews with the police. The organization is eager to exact their revenge before her testimony dismantles the multi-million dollar operation for good.
Abby’s safety rests in the hands of former US Marshal, Jerrod Quinn. Serious-minded and obsessed with protocol, Ethan Cooke Security’s newest agent finds himself dealing with more than he bargains for when he agrees to take on his beautiful, free-spirited client.
As the trial date nears, Abby’s case takes a dangerous turn. Abby and Jerrod soon discover themselves in a situation neither of them expect while Jerrod fights to stop the ring from silencing Abby once and for all.
“I really thought this would be a routine bodyguard/subject book, boy was I wrong. Cate Beauman’s characters popped! By the end of this book (which I read in one sitting) I was exhausted but replete… From paragraph to paragraph this story shifts and changes. The betrayals and surprises come at the reader at a furious pace. And while this story revolves around a very dark occurrence, there are enough moments that will make you smile, chuckle, snort and go “awwwww” Sebella Blue
Book Seven: Saving Sophie, the story of Sophie Burke and Stone McCabe. On Sale September 4, 2014
Jewelry designer Sophie Burke has fled Maine for the anonymity of the big city. She’s starting over with a job she tolerates and a grungy motel room she calls home on the wrong side of town, but anything is better than the nightmare she left behind.
Stone McCabe is Ethan Cooke Security’s brooding bad boy more interested in keeping to himself than anything else—until the gorgeous blond with haunted violet eyes catches his attention late one rainy night.
Stone reluctantly gives Sophie a hand only to quickly realize that the shy beauty with the soft voice and pretty smile has something to hide. Tangled up in her secrets, Stone offers Sophie a solution that has the potential to free her from her problems once and for all—or jeopardize both of their lives.
Book Eight: Reagan’s Redemption, the story of Reagan Rosner and Shane Harper. Coming Spring 2015!
Filed under Author Open Mic, Events, Giveaway
Author Open MIC: Welcome Best Selling Author Cate Beauman + Justice for Abby Giveaway
Cate Beauman is back with the sixth installment in her bestselling romantic suspense series, The Bodyguards of L.A. County.
Justice For Abby is on sale now through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and iTunes!
About the book
NOWHERE TO HIDE…
Fashion designer Abigail Harris has been rescued, but her nightmare is far from over. Determined to put her harrowing ordeal behind her and move on, she struggles to pick up the pieces of her life while eluding the men who want her dead.
The Mid-Atlantic Sex Ring is in ruins after Abby’s interviews with the police. The organization is eager to exact their revenge before her testimony dismantles the multi-million dollar operation for good.
Abby’s safety rests in the hands of former US Marshal, Jerrod Quinn. Serious-minded and obsessed with protocol, Ethan Cooke Security’s newest agent finds himself dealing with more than he bargains for when he agrees to take on his beautiful, free-spirited client.
As the trial date nears, Abby’s case takes a dangerous turn. Abby and Jerrod soon discover themselves in a situation neither of them expect while Jerrod fights to stop the ring from silencing Abby once and for all.
Read an excerpt from Justice For Abby
The black bag was ripped from her head, along with several strands of her hair. Abby blinked against the bold light of the naked bulbs hanging from the low ceiling. She glanced around the dingy space in shock as her gaze traveled from girl to girl—six young teens, dirty, bruised, and malnourished, staring up at her through bland eyes while they sat or lay on filthy mattresses on the dirt floor. “What—”
“In.” Victor shoved Abby into a small, windowless room, slamming the door, locking her in with a rusty scrape of something sliding against the heavy metal barrier.
She walked on shaky legs to the wooden chair in the corner and collapsed to the uncomfortable seat, clutching her arms around her waist, shivering as she bit hard on her bottom lip while tears rained down her cheeks. Where was she? What was this place? She shuddered, remembering six sets of listless eyes holding hers. Nothing good was happening here.
She covered her face with trembling hands and gave into her sobs, relieving the worst of her dread, wishing for nothing more than to be home with Lex and Livy. Thinking of her sister and niece, she forced away her tears, taking several deep breaths of stale air. If she wanted to see her family again she needed to pull herself together. She couldn’t get herself out of this—whatever this was—if she didn’t think. There had to be a way out. Her eyes darted around the barely lit space, searching for a weapon, another exit, anything.
The door opened, and she rushed to her feet as a tall, well-built man stood haloed in the beam of light from the room beyond. Abby blinked as he stepped forward. “Renzo?” She bolted from the corner and fell against her friend’s firm chest as a wave or relief flooded her. “Oh, thank god.”
His strong arms wrapped around her.
“I’m so glad you’re here. I don’t know what’s going on. I need help. Can you help me?”
“What happened?” He eased her back some, but she refused to release him from her grip.
“My family—we were on our way home from Virginia Beach. We stopped at a rest area, and two men grabbed me and brought me here.”
“You were with your sister and niece?”
“Yes, Alexa and Olivia. I think they’re okay, but I need to call and make sure. Will you get me out of here?”
“Of course.”
She could hardly believe she was leaving. “Thank you. Thank you.” She hugged Renzo again as tears of gratitude flowed free. “I knew this had to be some sort of mistake.”
“Come on, let’s get you home.” He wrapped his arm around her waist and walked with her to the door. “Oh, wait.” He stopped.
“What?”
“I can’t let you go.”
Did you enjoy the excerpt? You can read the first chapter on my website, http://www.catebeauman.com, or you can finish the whole book here!
The Inspiration Behind Justice For Abby
Justice For Abby is one of my favorite stories in The Bodyguards of L.A. County series (Okay, they all are, but I really love Abby and Jerrod!). I truly enjoyed writing their adventure. Oftentimes I found myself caught up in Abby’s rollercoaster ride as she heals from her experiences as a survivor of the Mid-Atlantic Sex Ring. At times I cried with her, and at others, I laughed. She’s so strong and sweet, but she’s vulnerable and struggling. Enter Jerrod Quinn, the perfect man to provide her protection and help her overcome her ordeal in his own quiet way.
Although Abby’s story is one of fiction, sex trafficking is a very real crisis for millions of young women, men, and children all over the globe. My idea for this novel came after a night in front of the television watching crime television. A segment showcasing the mysterious disappearance of a young woman named Amy Bradley bothered me greatly. She vanished from a cruise ship in March of 1998 while vacationing with her family. Unfortunately, Amy has yet to be found, but she is believed to be alive, stuck in the horrific world of human sex trafficking. I immediately began my research into this very troubling epidemic and shortly after wrote Forever Alexa, the story of Abby’s sister dealing with the aftermath of Abby’s disappearance. My readers have requested Abby’s story, and I felt the need to share her experience.
I hope you enjoy getting to know Abby and Jerrod as much as I enjoyed writing these two fantastic characters.
~Cate
The Unofficial Justice For Abby Soundtrack
Music always plays a huge part in my writing process. With two boys and two dogs in the house, music helps me “get lost” in my story. I typically listen to Pandora or YouTube and put together a playlist of songs that I feel represent the characters or the situations they face as the novel unfolds. Here are a few of the songs that I had on “repeat” while I created Jerrod and Abby’s story! You can listen to them on my website http://www.catebeauman.com.
The soundtrack, of sorts, for Justice For Abby:
• Applause by Lady Gaga
• Safe and Sound by Capital Cities
• She Is by Ben Rector
• I Should Go by Levi Kreis
• The Other Side by Jason Derulo
• Why Don’t You Love Me? by Hot Chelle Rae ft. Demi Lovato
• We Owned The Night by Lady Antebellum
• Stars Go Blue by Tim McGraw
• Open Your Eyes by Snow Patrol
• Come Back by Pearl Jam
• By Your Side by Tenth Avenue North
• Everything Has Changed by Taylor Swift ft. Ed Sheeran
About the author
Cate currently lives in Tennessee with her husband, their two boys, and St. Bernards, Bear and Jack. She is the author of the best selling romantic suspense series, The Bodyguards of L.A. County. Before her career as an author, Cate worked in special education for 12 years.
“I’m a pretty lucky girl; one day I woke up and my entire life changed. I saw the light, so to speak, and decided I was going to be a writer. Now, three years later, I’m working on my seventh novel, Saving Sophie, and I’m an Amazon best selling author. I’m very grateful for the support and success I have had. – Cate “
Contact Cate
Amazon Author Page
http://www.amazon.com/Cate-Beauman/e/B00A05KHVM/
Social links:
Twitter: @CateBeauman
http://www.catebeauman.com
http://www.facebook.com/CateBeauman
http://www.goodreads.com/catebeauman
E-Book/s Giveaway Contest – Justice for Abby
(2 up for grabs)
Want to read this book? Enter contest HERE!
Comment Below: What is your favorite crime show?
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Filed under Author Open Mic, Events, Giveaway
Author Open MIC: Welcomes Renee Charles ~ Top 10 Super Sexy Men in Fiction + Giveaway
Let’s give a warm welcome to Wicked Romance’s next guest ~ Renee Charles
Don’t forget about her giveaway ~ Author signed copy of Only Love Survives (US).
About the Author
Renee Charles
Author Renee Charles believes all love is legendary. Being the only female in a house full of giants (husband and two teenage boys) she tends to lean toward the strange and unusual, but inevitably the softer side shines through. Whether life leads her to a snow covered mountain top, sun dappled forest, or the bottom of a ravine (yes, ditches happen) she always has a pen and note pad ready so wherever the next adventure takes her, she can take notes. Her own romance began in an insane asylum. Luckily, both she and her husband only worked there. But it makes sense her romance novels have strange beginnings that lead to passionate endings. Romance with a twist.
In the face of zombies, werewolves, and big foot she always seems to find a happily ever after to leave you with a sigh at the end.
http://www.reneecharles.net/romance-and-other-hot-topics-blog.html
http://www.facebook.com/ReneeCharlesAuthor
https://twitter.com/RCharlesWriter
Find Renee’s Books:
http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=984
https://www.amazon.com/author/reneecharles
Guest Post
What makes a hero Sexy?
Is it the tight tights? The super hero bravado that allows him to accomplish anything? I say no. Think super nerds of the Big Bang theory. They wear tights, can accomplish anything they set their IQs to, and granted are cute in a weird sort of way, but Melt your legs sexy? No.
I submit to you, what makes a hero sexy is a drive to do whatever is necessary, despite the obstacles, despite the odds, driven by passion to ensure love prevails no matter what. The hero risks, even sacrifices, all for the woman he loves. That is why we find them so irresistible. That is what transforms an everyday guy into a hero that even the most sophisticated woman can swoon over. Here is a list of my top ten super sexy men of fiction. Some are books, some are movies, ALL are men in love.
10) Capt. Daniel Gregg -The Ghost and Mrs. Muir- Book by RA Dick-
The salty sea captain is dead, but can’t help but admire, then fall in love with the strong woman who moves into “His” house. After he helps her save the house, he does the right thing by leaving her alone to have a life and waits patiently for her on the other side. Sacrifice for love. Not to mention, who doesn’t love a sea captain?
9) Will Parker -Morning Glory- Lavyrle Spencer –
A man who takes on a pregnant widow and her two children as his own, with no agenda other than to love and be loved, is sexy. But when he chooses that life over the other “options” dangled in front of him, that just pushed his sex appeal over the top.
8) James Fraser-Outlander- Diana Gabaldon-
Is it wrong that the hottest part of that book is when he spanks her for her own good? Also, the scene when she is so worried about her cleanliness and he basically says he didn’t care if she stinks he had to have her. Yep, nothing sexier than then sweaty, sticky, hot monkey lovin’.
7) Westley or The Dread Pirate Roberts- The Princess Bride-
He comes back from being mostly dead all day to save her, need I say more?
6) Richard Collier -Somewhere In Time-
He travels back in time just to be with the woman he loves, and to top it off when they are torn apart he cannot go on without her. Okay, I am just gonna say what we are not supposed to say. Come on, isn’t that our ultimate fantasy? That life will cease without us? Look at your husband and tell me a little part of you doesn’t wish that. Not that he would die without you, but that he could not go on without you. Yeah, it’s there buried under all the 20th century politically correct crap.
5) King Leonidas -300-
I know it is not a romance movie, but the relationship he has with his queen, the strength he gains from his wife as he makes his choices, is sexy as hell. And when he says at the end, “My Queen! My wife. My love…” as he is about to die, I get goosebumps. IMO best scene in the entire damn movie.
4) Daryl Dixon – Walking Dead-
The way he has been with Carol through the loss of her daughter and proving deep inside he is a good guy, despite what everyone else thought, well what else can I say? I love the lone wolf archetype.
3)Kyle Reese in Terminator –
Travels back in time to save her…oh, and the future of mankind, but mostly her.
2) Edmond Dantès (from The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas)
Such a tortured soul, even with the option to be a rich man and go about his life, he can not. He is trapped by hatred, and must, must, must have his revenge. The one thing that finally brings his soul peace, returning to the arms of his lost love. Ohhhhh yeahhhhh.
1) Mr. Darcy-
Has an author ever written a hero so multifaceted since Ms. Austin created him? The perfect combo of dark and brooding mixed with humor and raw need. Intoxicating indeed. The stuff we compare our heros to now. Hell, our men even.
GIVEAWAY details below
Check out Renee’s newest release…
Author’s Book Info
Amidst an epidemic ravaging the world, all Megan Fletcher’s hopes for the future lie in getting to Las Vegas where newscasts reported scientists were gathering to search for a cure for the modern plague. After rescuing her from a rooftop surrounded by Zombies, Sam Woods appoints himself her escort. While he knows she is determined to get to Vegas no matter the cost, he doesn’t know her secret. And with his hatred of all things Zombie, she doesn’t dare tell him the truth. The more he kisses her, the harder it is for Megan to hide her growing feelings…and the bite-shaped scar.
But Vegas is not the haven it was promised to be, and when Megan’s immunity to the disease is discovered, she realizes her future and her heart belong to Sam, if he will trust her. An idealistic school teacher and ex-corporate mogul manage to find love despite a looming worldwide catastrophe. Can their love survive while everything around them is dying? Will they learn that when facing the end of the world, Only Love Survives.
Find Renee’s Books:
http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=984
https://www.amazon.com/author/reneecharles
Book Excerpt
A storm that spelled danger flashed across Sam’s face. He advanced on Megan so fast, she backed up against the side of the Suburban. Planting a hand firmly on each side of her, he pinned her with his arms as well as his gaze.
“What I want? Are you so hard headed you can’t tell what I want?” He covered her mouth with his lips and crushed her clever comeback with an assault on her senses.
Megan pushed him, but he didn’t budge. Instead, he continued to kiss her until her heart raced and cheeks flushed with need. All resistance melted and she succumbed to the warmth of his embrace. Her arms wound around his neck of their own accord pulling him closer while her tongue sought his in a passionate dance, completely ignoring what her heart wanted.
When he finally broke away leaving Megan breathless and wanting so much more, Sam put his forehead to hers and watched her mouth like a drunk watches amber liquid poured into a glass. “You,” he rasped. “I’ve wanted you since I found you hanging from that damn roof, and all our little encounter in the river did was add fuel to the fire.”
Who did Renee miss on the list?
To ENTER: Top Ten List – Share your #1 Sexiest Man
(Contest ends Sunday, July 7th at 2359/midnight)
Filed under Author Open Mic, Guest Author
Author Open MIC: Welcomes Barbara Monajem + $25 GC Giveaway
Welcome!
Hi folks! I’m very excited to introduce my next guest, Regency Romance Author Barbara Monajem. She has an amazing backlist of Regency books that any reader would fall in love with. Check out her Amazon Author Page.
The Regency period (early 1800’s) was a time of turmoil — wars, manufacturing, fashion and let us not forget, “manners.” I’m by far no expert, so lets turn over the MIC to someone who is…
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Barbara Monajem
Barbara Monajem wrote her first story in third grade about apple tree gnomes. After dabbling in neighborhood musicals and teen melodrama, she published a middle-grade fantasy when her children were young. Now her kids are adults, and she’s writing historical and paranormal romance for grownups. She lives in Georgia, USA, with an ever-shifting population of relatives, friends, and feline strays.
INTERVIEW
Hi,Barbara. Welcome to Wicked Romance and a spotlight we call Author Open MIC.
Thank you for having me here today, Jean.
How did you get into writing? Was it something you were born with or did you discover your hidden talent?
My mother read to me a lot when I was very young, and I was hooked right away on making up my own stories. The first one I remember writing was in third grade. It was about some gnomes that lived in an apple tree. The teacher praised the first chapter so much that I got a terrible case of nerves—I hated being the focus of attention (still do)—and gave it a boring sort of ending on purpose. I still struggle with endings, but now that’s because I try to get them right. 🙂
Tell us a little about the time period you write about, England in the early 1800s. What attracted you to write about this time and what is special about it?
I became interested in writing Regency-era romances after reading Georgette Heyer’s novels. It’s a fun period to write about—long enough ago that it feels different from today, but not too terribly distant. I’m not interested in writing about present-day reality (there’s plenty of that around us!), so I write either historical or paranormal romances…or a combination, in the case of my two new releases, which are Regencies with more than a touch of magic.
What is the single, most important element when writing a historical novel? What do you find most challenging?
Hmm. I like to be accurate (except when it comes to magic, when anything goes), but I’m not a historian, and I’m not willing to spend a huge amount of time on research. I enjoy research, but it’s time-consuming, and I like writing much more. That’s one reason I’ve stuck to the Regency period so far—I know it fairly well, and there are lots of resources out there to help a non-historian like me. It can be quite a challenge to balance historical accuracy with what readers want—such as women who are able and willing to be independent and go against the rules. There have always been independent women, but many freedoms we have today simply weren’t available, especially if a woman wanted to be accepted by society. I think that’s why so many Regencies are about women who break out of the mold. It’s fun writing about heroes who love these independent women.
Can you describe the clothing that your characters wear in your novel? Are there any challenges when writing love scenes, fight scenes etc..?
One of the challenges when writing a love scene is getting the heroine’s clothes off. Women wore many more layers then, and the hero meets hindrances such as stays, which require a lot of unlacing. (Of course, this can make for some very sexy interaction.) Also, the heroine usually needs help getting her clothes on—whether it’s the hero helping (which is fun) or her maid (which means an extra character when you don’t necessarily want one).
I haven’t written many fight scenes. Usually my heroes are the rough and ready sort when it comes to fights and know how to deal with an opponent quickly. It might be fun to learn about fencing, though—I love reading about swordplay.
Tell us about the characters in each of your books. Are they compatible or is it the attraction of opposites that fuels their passion?
In The Magic of His Touch, the hero and heroine are very compatible, although it takes a while for the heroine to believe it. In Bewitched by His Kiss, they’re diametrically opposed to one another, and the heroine struggles to resist the attraction—and the belief that they belong together—until the very end.
I understand there is a paranormal element– magic. How does it play in your story?
The magic in my duet of Regency novellas has to do with an ancient May Day custom. At dawn on the first of May, a woman who rolls naked in the dew will magically call her true love to her side. Just imagine the possibilities! So much could go wrong…or right!
What are you cooking up next? What can readers expect?
Right now, I’m working on another duet of Regency novellas with a Christmas/Twelfth Night theme. I’m also working on some contemporary paranormal romances in my Bayou Gavotte vampire series—a novel and a novella. Hopefully I’ll have one of those out soon.
Where can readers find you and your books?
My website has links to all my books, with blurbs and excerpts. www.BarbaraMonajem.com
I’m on Twitter at @BarbaraMonajem and on Facebook at facebook.com/Barbara.Monajem
Open MIC FAV FIVE:
- Favorite hero or heroine -This list changes and grows from day to day. I like the Scarlet Pimpernel, Captain Jack Sparrow, Beauvallet (an Elizabethan hero written by Georgette Heyer), Marcus Didius Falco (a Roman private eye of sorts in the mysteries by Lindsey Davis), Sherlock Holmes as played by Benedict Cumberbatch, and Doctor Who. And that’s just for starters. Favorite heroine – Cordelia in Cordelia’s Honor by Lois McMaster Bujold and Venetia Lanyon in Venetia (one of Heyer’s Regencies).
- Favorite author– there are too many to list, but I’ve re-read more books by Georgette Heyer than by any other author, so I guess that says something!
- Favorite music to write by– None. Usually, I ignore everything that’s going on in the background. I’m a big Paul McCartney fan, though. I wrote a children’s fantasy while playing some of his CDs.
- Favorite inspiration– Right now, it’s ancient magic. Next, who knows? I like to be surprised.
- Most memorable writing moment– I don’t remember!
BOOK INFORMATION
Book 1, The Magic of His Touch
England, 1804
Tired of being paraded before every eligible bachelor, Peony Whistleby decides it’s time to find her true love—through the ancient custom of rolling naked in the dew on May Day morning. But the magic goes awry when she is caught in the act—and by an entirely unsuitable man. And yet, the way his eyes linger upon her flesh ignites a sensual craving that can only be satisfied by his touch…
The Magic of His Touch (available April 1):
Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/bb823aa
B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-magic-of-his-touch-barbara-monajem/1114334728?ean=9781460310960
Bewitched by His Kiss
England, 1804
Lucasta Barnes knows the folly believing in magic can lead to—and she won’t accept that her illicit tryst with a notorious rake was the result of anything more than pure lust. Or that it has bonded them together forever. Yet, she can’t deny that she yearns for just one more night in his arms…
David, Earl of Elderwood, is used to women being enchanted by him, but ever since a passionate encounter with Lucasta three years ago, he desires only her. How can he convince his thoroughly practical paramour that love is the greatest magic of all?
Bewitched by His Kiss (available May 1):
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bewitched-by-his-kiss-barbara-monajem/1114335453?ean=9781460313084
BOOK EXCERPTS
Excerpt from The Magic of His Touch:
“Get up! Get dressed!”
Peony froze in mid-roll. A strange man bounded toward her, gesturing, his voice low but urgent. She scrambled to her feet, a shriek catching in her throat.
“I won’t hurt you,” he said, but he kept on coming. Her heart clambering into her gullet, she tried to cover herself with her hands.
“Who— What—” She couldn’t get a word out.
“Don’t stand there like an idiot, girl! I already know what you look like naked.” A blush crowded up her neck and burned her cheeks. “Get your clothes on, and be quick about it.” With brisk, shooing motions he herded her toward the hawthorn where she’d left her shift and gown.
Anger swelled up, overcoming her fear. How dare he order her about? “Go away,” she said, hating how her voice trembled as she fled before him. “What are you doing here? You have no right.” A little way round the circle of meadow, she spied a horse, cropping the grass at the edge of the wood.
“You should be thankful I’m here,” he said, stopping several feet away when she reached the hawthorn. “I don’t know what foolishness you’re up to, but clearly your lover isn’t coming, and—”
“No, because you spoiled everything,” she said. Her hair had fallen out of its ribbon and stuck wetly to her face. She clawed it away, wanting to hit him. Her chance at finding love was gone. “Go away!”
He folded his arms and just stood there, scowling—and looking at her as if, underneath that frown, he was enjoying himself. “Not until you put your clothes on and be off home where you belong.”
Another flush overwhelmed her, this time of shame and misery, as she realized what he meant. He thought she’d come out here to tryst with some likely village lad, as if she were a scullery maid. And who was he, anyway? She’d never seen him before. He was dressed like a gentleman and spoke like one, too, but he didn’t belong here.
“Who gave you the right to order me about?” she demanded. “This is private land.”
His eyes widened. “You silly little fool, I’m trying to protect you. I traveled here with a friend. To him, a naked woman is a blatant invitation. You’re lucky it’s I who came upon you and not he.”
She grabbed her shift and turned it right side out. “Stop staring at me.”
“You’re a beautiful girl without any clothes on,” he said. “I wouldn’t be much of a man if I didn’t stare.”
Excerpt from Bewitched by His Kiss:
Setup: It’s late at night, and Lucasta, our heroine, fears that her cousin Peony has gone rolling naked in the dew again. She bumps into Lord Elderwood on the way out to check on her.
“Shall we go verify that Peony is safe?” Lord Elderwood’s voice was a silky dare.
“Don’t be ridiculous,” Lucasta retorted. “Alexis is a gentleman through and through.” Unlike Elderwood, who would take advantage of a woman with or without clothing. She remembered leaving the future to fate and shivered. No, this meeting was pure chance. Nothing else.
That didn’t stop every nerve in her body from coming alive and afire.
The path through the wood appeared like magic. No, not magic—just luck that they’d found it easily in the dark. She hastened onward. “But for her safety, I must make certain he is with her.”
Elderwood laughed. From ahead came a startled squeak, stifled immediately. Urgent whispers stretched toward them, ghostly and unintelligible. Peony was talking to someone, but she didn’t sound frightened, and she hadn’t had time to disrobe. It must truly be Alexis, thank heavens. He was a reassuring sort of man. He would convince her to keep her clothes on. He would make sure she returned to the house safely.
Elderwood laughed again. “Come now, my love. Tell the truth. Don’t you want to know what Alexis is doing with your cousin?”
“Damn you,” she said too loudly, whirling back toward the orchard. She lowered her voice. “Stop laughing, for God’s sake. Have you no discretion?”
A muffled snort came from directly behind her. He must be close enough to touch her and intending to do so.
“Stupid question,” she muttered. She was at his mercy, or rather at the mercy of her own rampaging desires. She hurried forward, clutching the pistol close so he couldn’t get it, but suddenly the path petered into nothing. She must have mistaken the way in the dark; she dodged the other direction, around a massive oak she’d passed on the way in.
Blocked again, this time by a wall of undergrowth and a closed rank of trees. She whirled again and stumbled.
Lord Elderwood caught her. “Dear, dear,” he said. “Are we lost?”
“Where did the path go?” she burst out. “It was right here. I’m sure of it.”
“And now it isn’t,” Elderwood said, one arm strong around her, the other plucking the muff pistol from her hand.
She moaned. “That makes no sense at all.”
He took her chin in his hands and tipped it up. His eyes seemed to glow in the darkness. “It does, if you believe in magic.”
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Don’t Forget ~ Book Release
Bewitched by His Kiss (available May 1)
The Magic of His Touch (available April 1)
Filed under Author Open Mic, Giveaway, Guest Author
Author Open MIC ~ Welcomes Lara Nance + Steampunk Novel and Necklace Giveaway
How many of you have read a Steampunk Romance? Am I the only Steampunk virgin out there?
The answer may be yes. It’s not for the lack of trying (every girl’s excuse). I actually have several coming up on my TBR, which makes me even more excited to introduce our next Author Open MIC guest: Lara Nance. Lara is an amazingly talented lady. She has an array of books that range from Steampunk to paranormal romance and paranormal mystery. Her novel, Memories of Murder, won NEC’s Bean Pot Award for Best Paranormal romance in 2012, received a 4.5 star review from Romantic Times, and was awarded Merit for Best Book From a Virginia Writer in 2012 from the Holt Medallion Contest of VRW. Her love of Steampunk has grown into several novels, specifically Airship Adventure Chronicles- Revenge of the Mad Scientist, which we are going to talk about today. So, let me introduce Lara….
THE AUTHOR
Lara Nance grew up and lived in many cities throughout the South. She loves to write in a variety of genres within the scope of women’s fiction. But the basis of all her stories is a tale that will entertain and intrigue.
If you want to escape and lose yourself in a novel, you’ve come to the right place. Choose your genre and settle in to be entertained. From thrilling mysteries and steampunk tales, to paranormal romance and adventure, Lara’s willing to explore a variety of compelling stories full of danger and suspense, with a touch of romance.
Having been on the fencing team in college and now living on a sailboat convinces her that she was a pirate in another life, or possibly kin to Errol Flynn… However, due to the unfortunate demise of the romantic pirates of the past, she lives out her fantasies, thrills and adventures in her stories.
Currently docked in Norfolk, Virginia (until the wind changes) Lara enjoys living on her sailboat and spends time reading, of course writing, indulging a variety of artistic endeavors, cooking and sailing with her husband, Joe and their Yorkie, Rio.
THE INTERVIEW
You have an amazing collection of books – paranormal romance, paranormal mystery and now Steampunk adventures. What motivated you to break from your paranormal roots to write Steampunk?
There’s still an element of fantasy to both genres. Plus the Victorian backdrop lends an element of romance I love. I also love the inventiveness of the steampunk movement, the great costumes and wild weapons. I’ve been a Jules Verne fan since I was little, so steampunk is a wonderful extension of that.
What do you find most fascinating about the Steampunk genre?
The creativity of this community is amazing. There are so many directions one can take. Either using an altered Victorian history to incorporate the steampunk elements, or as I did, create an alternate Victorian Universe with new countries, but still keeping the Victorian theme.
For those of us who have never read a Steampunk based novel, tell us what we can expect to see?
For me, I see the novels taking a couple paths, one is more technical and focuses on the gadgets and science fiction. The other, is more romantic and uses the steampunk elements within an adventure or mystery. The latter is what I chose for my novels. It’s a rollicking adventure with rogue heroes and spunky heroines. You’ll see visions of the steampunk clothing, airships, clockwork robots and air-pirates.
Does your Steampunk Airship Adventure Chronicles have elements of romance? Or another theme buried within plot lines that you wish readers to capture?
Apart from the main theme of adventure there is an underlying romance that builds over the course of the three books. Arabella was left at the altar by a man eight years before this novel takes place. She’s forced to accept his help in this adventure as his airship is the only one for hire when she needs to go after her kidnapped father. Against the backdrop of their dangerous mission, she and Rett learn their attraction is still alive and now that they’re older, the spark can be rekindled.
Are the books individual reads or are they linked by a common plotline?
The books are all linked and one picks up where the previous one left off. The whole trilogy is a story of How Belle and friends fight to save the world and she and Rett come to terms with their love.
Tell us about your characters.
I envision Belle as Nicole Kidman. She’s tall, with auburn hair and a British accent. Nothing stops her when she’s determined, and she can be a bit stubborn, too. But her compassion wins everyone over and she had very loyal friends and servants.
Rett is totally like Indiana Jones. A competent adventurer with a streak of vulnerability that endears him to us.
Now for some broader questions…. What is the single, most important element in your writing or life as an author?
As far as my writing, my most important element is to create entertaining women’s fiction that will take the reader away and give them a fun reading experience. As an author, I want to continue to grow and perfect my craft so I offer the best books to my readers I possibly can.
What is the most difficult hurdle you have encountered (personal or professional)? What advice would you give other authors who face the same challenges?
Getting my first book published was the biggest hurdle. It took years of learning and honing my craft as well as studying the publishing business. The advice I have is to keep going. There is so much to learn, it can’t happen overnight. Keep writing because every book you write will be better than the last. Eagerly seeking and accepting critiques of your work is the best way to learn.
What do you are you cooking up next? What can readers expect?
I’m just finishing the third book of the steampunk trilogy. Then I’ll be starting on the second book in my DraculaVille series. So, back to paranormal.
Where can readers find you and your books. (links, purchase and social media)
I’m at www.laranance.com and love to get e-mail from readers.
My books are on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Kobo. This particular book is only available in electronic format on Amazon, but the print copy is available on the other sites.
Open MIC fav five:
- Favorite hero or heroine – Indiana Jones
- Favorite author – Anne McCaffrey
- Favorite music to write by – Lady Gaga
- Favorite inspiration – Stephen King’s – On Writing.
- Most memorable writing moment – When my first book was accepted by a publisher.
BOOK INFO
Revenge of the Mad Scientist – Book one – Airship Adventure Chronicles
When Lady Arabella Trunkett’s father, the High Lord Minister of Urbannia is kidnapped, all clues point to the mysterious country of Gandiss and the world is thrown into political upheaval.
Arabella is convinced the more sinister nation of Carabarras is to blame, urged on by a mad scientist seeking revenge. So, she sets out on a perilous airship journey across a variety of exotic locales to save him, and halt the potential world war.
But airship pirates, secret assassins and slave traders aren’t her only trials. The fickle hand of fate has made the captain of the only airship available for charter, the man who left her at the altar. For eight years she’s wished him dead. Now he’s her only hope.
CHAPTER EXCERPT
CLICK: READ AN EXCERPT FROM THE REVENGE OF THE MAD SCIENTIST
Revenge of the Mad Scientist will be FREE on AMAZON for 2-days only
January 29-30, 2013
A free copy of Revenge of the Mad Scientist and a unique steampunk necklace.
To ENTER Necklace Giveaway: Leave a comment or question for Lara Nance.
The winner of Lara Nance’s giveaway is Lara N.
Congratulations, Lara. Stay tuned for more giveaways.
Filed under Author Open Mic, Giveaway, Guest Author
Author Open MIC: Welcomes Louann Carroll + GIVEAWAY (2 Ebook Gift Packs)
MEET THE AUTHOR
Louann Carroll is a Native Californian living in the Sierra Nevada foothills with her husband, Dennis. Mother to three children and grandmother to six, she is an avid rock, fossil, and gem hunter who enjoys sharing her finds with her grandchildren and friends. She is a student of alternative religion, archaeology, anthropology, and paleontology. She was five when she found her first set of fossilized shark teeth. Since then, she has added numerous finds to her on-going collection.
Louann has written numerous radio talk shows, articles on adoption, and is the author of Journeys, The Adventure of Leaf. She was the senior editor of American Carriage House Publishing and assisted in the writing, editing, and formatting of the award-winning book, AdoptingOnline.com.
THE BOOK
Kellyn O’Brien strives to create the perfect family. Then, disaster strikes. Her husband is dead. Three weeks later, she discovers her son is heir to Shadow Ley, a nineteenth century estate nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills.
Reeling from Michael’s death, Kellyn moves to Shadow Ley. Soon, the ordinary becomes the extraordinary: broken drinking glasses repair themselves, stair rails that were once old are now new, and suddenly the estate of Shadow Ley is not what it seems.
She turns to the local historian and learns of Sha’ na ho bet, the angry fire god, bound forever to Earth. Native Americans tell her about Coyote, the Trickster who creates chaos out of order. Then the dreams begin with windows into past lives, hints of multidimensionality, and the promise of life beyond death.
Legends abound and so Shadow Ley, the home Kellyn had hoped would bring peace to herself and her children, becomes mired first in doubt, then in terror, and finally in love eternal.
AUTHOR INTERVIEW
As writers, we all have our niche, mine is Ancient Egyptian Mythos. Tell us what inspires you and how it impacted your writing on your new release, A Shadow of Time.
I love the sciences, especially physics—theoretical that is. There are so many concepts that have arisen over the last decade it’s enough to keep a writer’s mind busy for centuries. One of those ideas is the theory of multidimensionality.
After reading a few books on the topic, I began to wonder:
- How many dimensions might there be?
- How are dimensions created?
- Do all dimensions evolve or do some get sick and die?
Contemplating the unknowable, I came up with my latest book, A Shadow of Time, which encompasses the dimensions, lives, and loves of four individuals, Kellyn, John, Adam, and Connie.
Shadow Ley is the setting of Shadow of Time. Tell us what it looks like and what’s hiding within its walls without giving away too many secrets.
In some places, ley lines cross. Shadow Ley is one of those places. A ley line is associated with mystical phenomena and multidimensional activity. Shenahobet is a portal (dimensional) guardian. The problem arises when it is discovered that this Shenahobet is insane and the dimension unstable.
I understand some theoretical physics inspired a Shadow of Time. Did you conduct a lot of research to make this storyline work and make it believable to the reader? Are there any interesting truths/concepts that you incorporated?
Here is the concept that permeates A Shadow of Time:
Physical objects (including ourselves) exist due to the arrangement and identity of atoms. Those atoms contain the nucleus. The nucleus is made up of quarks and you (by this I mean the observer) directly influence the nature of that quark, how it will behave, and what it will become.
Thereby: You create your own reality.
A tiny tuning fork placed within a bell jar with all the air removed was seen to vibrate in more than one dimension, by the physical eye. The question must be asked, is it the observer creating the dimension, or is the dimension already there?
Once you accept the probability that you can create another dimension it is only a short ride to begin to wonder if all dimensions are sane and if not, how can a dimension be made whole if the guardian of said dimension is insane?
Now this is somewhat different from your previous book, Gemini Rising. What inspired you to write a horror/mystery romance?
The two novels aren’t that much different even though they may appear to be at a glance. In book one of Gemini Rising we are only able to view Kate’s reality. As the series continues, we will meet more worlds than you can imagine.
Do you like to incorporate themes into your writing? The old adage ~ the moral to the story. Does Shadow of a Time have a message you would like to share with readers?
All stories have a moral—either good or bad. Even being indifferent is a moral choice so yes there are always moral questions needing answers. Hopefully, I’ve answered a few in A Shadow of Time.
Kellyn O’Brien, your heroine, comes from a tragic background. How has her past molded her into the woman she is today? Does she find strength in her pain?
I believe so. Kellyn walks out of victimhood and into being a woman who create hers own reality. Risking all she holds dear in the process.
Who is her romantic interest in Shadow of Time? Can you tell us about him?
Kellyn meets Dr. John Aldrich after she experiences her first panic attack. Just three months pregnant, she finds his name in a local telephone directory and heads over to his office. With her young son in her arms, she meets Connie, the physician’s receptionist. Frightened something may have happened to her unborn child she is not at ease until she stares into a pair of shocking blue eyes that seem to know her body and soul.
Obstetrical physician, Dr. John Aldrich, sees the young woman his receptionist has just announced. Almost immediately, he realizes something is wrong. He tries to discover what it is though he finds it difficult to get through to Kellyn on just one visit. She doesn’t have any relatives to call on for help and this fuels his curiosity. He recognizes her fragility, as she is newly widowed and raising a young son on her own. Even though his life has taken a strange turn, he decides against his better judgment to become her protector.
That is John Aldrich. Strong, protective, and endearing.
Working fulltime and writing, how do you manage? Do you have advice for other writers?
Recently, when asked to put together an article for new writers who want to become published authors, I did a little research and found the most offered advice was to read, read, and read. Somehow, that just wasn’t enough. I came up with this 5 Step Plan for Success:
- Read because you love it not because someone tells you to do so. I suppose there are those who can execute formula writing with perfection, but I doubt the result would be a novel that captures the heart. Read and write what you love.
- On editorial/critical review: Don’t let it destroy your self-esteem. A writer cannot edit his or her own works. The writer’s brain will substitute the right word over the wrong word in a manuscript. As for editorial review—not everyone will like what you read. Some will get you and some will not.
- Be willing to learn and keep your mind open to new ideas.
- Grammar DOES matter.
- Find your voice—your own voice—never mimic another.
What do you are you cooking up next? What can readers expect?
Gemini Rising continues. Kate and Noah, banished from Earth, are sent to the Olam where Kate will learn how to become a bond mate and Noah, a king among men.
Where can readers find you and your books.
Website: www.louanncarroll.com
Blog: www.louanncarroll.com/blog
Amazon Author Page for buy links.
E-mail carroll.louann@yahoo.com
Twitter: @LouannCarroll
Open MIC fav five:
- Favorite hero or heroine: Humphrey Bogart–Casablanca
- Favorite author: Ayn Rand—love the philosophy and the drama.
- Favorite music to write by: I don’t. I need silence. My head plays all the music I need. Seriously. It gets loud in there sometimes.
- Favorite inspiration: Being outdoors and/or driving the car. I have no idea why, just that it works best when I’m alone.
- Most memorable writing moment: The end of Gemini Two came to me as I was driving down the mountain. It was so stunning I almost had to pull over to the side of the road. It was that visually impacting.
2 – EBOOK GIFT PACKS: Gemini Rising & A Shadow of Time.
Entry
1. Leave a comment for Louann
Extra Chances
ENTER RAFFLECOPTER HERE
CONTEST ENDS January 13, 2013 at 2359
BOOK TRAILER
EXCERPT FROM A SHADOW OF TIME
A dry wind caressed the meadow, rustling golden rye grass. A pool of brackish water reflected the sun, and a darting bird caused the liquid to move sluggishly. Thirst gnawed, creating scratchy tracks of pain in Kellyn’s throat. However, the thought of drinking from the pond turned her stomach. Her pace picked up. She knew she had been here before. She started running because in this place realities converged, and she wanted no part of it.
A man appeared on a hillock dressed in a golden tunic that shined under the sun and glimmered in the heat. He waved and started toward her.
“Kellyn!” he cried. “Wait!”
She gasped, the air searing her lungs. Sweat paraded down her face and neck, soaking her hair. Once again, the man called her name. She slowed, glancing over her shoulder, the voice familiar. Is he one of them? she wondered. Yes, she answered as his face came into view.
He was Matka, one of the five who were one. She thought to warn him of the dark waters, but she desperately needed to conserve her strength. As soon as she recognized where she was, fear had set fire to her feet, and she’d ran as fast as they could carry her, terrified of the living djinn of the water.
If she didn’t warn him, the circle of life would demand a repeat of her actions, until she got it right. Such was a soul’s fate. But what was right? She had no way of knowing. She could only do. She was not omnipotent. A river of sweat scalded her eyes. She had to find shelter before she withered up and blew away in the desert heat.
In the mountain’s shadow, a cave nestled behind several large boulders, giving sanctuary. She ran inside then leaned against a far wall, grateful for the coolness of the cavern. Glancing around, she searched for water. Nothing but a pallet lay within the rocky compound. She leaned in for a closer look, immediately repelled by the stench that emanated from the bedding.
Guilt rose. She should have warned the man, but perhaps he would follow her here. She had met each of them in other lives and different times. The names shot through her head: Matka, Michael, John, Tonah, and the over soul who had created them all. She too was one of many, and although she understood the concept here, she never could carry it back to her waking life. A veil had been drawn between this Kellyn and the one that walked the earth.
Tired, she crept toward the pallet. Unable to overcome her aversion to the smell, she knelt on shaking legs. After a time, she realized Matka had not followed. Exhaustion overwhelmed her. She crept onto the skins. Laying her head down amongst fleas and dirt, she slept.
Icy wind slithered through the bedding, waking her. Shivering, Kellyn sat up, fingering animal hide. She shuddered, the cold attacking her skin like tiny knives. Night lifted and sunrise illuminated the cave, bringing it into view.
A loud rustle and snore startled her. A man lay next to her. Tonah? The name popped into her mind. Warm breath clouded an unshaven face in fine mist. Strong features accentuated a rough visage. His nose, long and straight, sat above a full mouth, cracked with the winter’s wind. His eyes rolled beneath closed eyelids, partially veiled by locks of blue-black hair.
Suddenly, another bump and softer snore sounded to her right. Bundled close by, a young girl slept wrapped in rough hide. Her angular face nestled deep within animal fur, eyes closed tight against the cold. Overcome with emotion, a tear slipped down Kellyn’s cheek. She knew this child, had loved her dearly. The man moved, and she glanced at him. He opened his eyes.
Startled, she scooted closer to the girl. His gaze settled on her, setting off a rush of love that was at once exquisite and unsettling. She yearned for him, until an icy clamp of fear formed around her heart.
The man sensed her terror and reached up, pulling her against him. He said, “Ahyokoochettooa, Ayana.” I will not lead you wrong.
Her mind dipped precariously. Michael? John? Tonah? Oh, God, she thought. Joy filled her, pushing away all thoughts of a world beyond this one. She answered with gratitude the name he called.
Tonah’s arms were strong, his skin cracked and reddened, and he was warm, oh so warm. Not cold, like the body that lay in the mortuary for three days. Not waxy, like the face she had seen covered in make-up, his cheeks pushing against his ears in a way she had never before seen. He curled toward her, his mouth open—the tiny stitches of thread that had held his lips forever closed were gone. In their place the warm breath of the living descended upon her.
His muscles flexed as he held her, and she luxuriated in the oiliness of their bodies. The scent of cured animal hide filled her nostrils. The icy walls of the cave provided shelter from mother Earth and security from father Wind. She took refuge in his arms giving thanks for the man who loved her so fiercely.
“Oh, Ayana,” he whispered. “You are my life—my love.”
Salty tears tracked down her face as she lifted her mouth. His lips were warm and he smelled of the earth. She clasped him closer, never wanting to let go. He straddled her and she welcomed him, lifting her arms in surrender.
Always gentle, always sweet, he stroked her arms, her legs, and then her thighs. He stood, sweeping her off the ground and holding her close as if her body and his were the same.
Wrapping her legs around him, she buried her face into his neck, sucking in the rich odor of life and love. Never had she been so close to a human being, experienced such passion, and reached such heights of ecstasy.
After the sweetness of love was finished, he laid her down, rose from the skins, and walked naked to the mouth of the cave. He grasped a thin curtain of hide and pulled it away from the opening.
He shouted, “Come. We must greet the sun and be on our way.”
Ayana pulled back the covers, shivering in the chill morning air. She reached for her daughter. “Awake, Kayi. It is time to go.”
The child looked up. A smile started at her lips that soon reached her eyes. She yawned, showing even white teeth.
Ayana grinned at her sleepy offspring then stepped out of bed and threw on a Caribou hide robe. Striding over to the fire she’d bedded down the previous evening, she blew on it gently, feeding the flames dried dog dung until the fire rose into a body-warming blaze. “Come and warm yourself.”
The girl rose, running with dainty steps over to the fire.
From a sickly infant, Kayi had grown into a healthy young woman more than able to carry her weight in camp. Born half alive, Ayana’s womb had become a tomb of death instead of a well of life. Before the babe could take her last breath, Tonah had called the ancient shaman who arrived with bold paint and staff. He danced his prayer to the White Mammoth asking that the child live, and she had.
Ayana lightly touched her belly. Her womb was too small for a maturing fetus. Instead of enlarging, it bent and twisted the infant so that the child’s legs were malformed. After Kayi’s birth, she followed the shaman’s wishes, starving herself for three days while allowing another to nurse the baby. In return, she expected and received the life of her child. Kayi’s limbs had taken time to grow and straighten. Now she was as lithe on her feet as any youth her age. She had a slight limp and was sometimes in pain, but it only showed in her eyes and never in her voice.
Ayana opened the carrying pouch, thinking she had at best one more day of food. Together they warmed a bit of sinew then, in a round bowl made of stiffened Caribou hide, they heated snow to drink. In the manner to which she was accustomed, the child carried the first of the day’s offering to the man that stared out over the canyon.
Her father, now arrayed in furs and skins that protected him from the cold, smiled. The sun’s rays burned the snow-laden mountains a brilliant pink, and she squinted as she handed him the meat and water.
“Thank you,” he said, accepting her gift.
She crept back to the fire.
“Come,” Ayana said, smiling. “It is time.” She was pleased with Tonah’s response to Kayi.
Where most men would have decried the birth of a daughter, he had welcomed her and her disabilities. It was Tonah who strapped the sticks to Kayi’s legs to help them grow straight, and it was Tonah who helped Ayana accept the fact she would bear no more children. She sighed, remembering how lucky she was to have him as her mate.
The wind whistled as she packed what was left of their utensils and blankets. Wrapping extra skins around her daughter, she made sure her ears and hands were well covered. She stepped onto the sled as her mate readied the dogs for the long trek down the mountain.
With longing, she gazed back at the cave, wishing she didn’t have to leave its warmth. Tonah hooked up the dogs to the main sled and attached the smaller emergency carrier to the back of the basket sled. She and Kayi hunkered next to him, their bodies wrapped in bear hide.
He whipped the dogs. “Haw!”
Icy wind blew through her hair. Frost formed on her eyebrows and eyelashes as the sled sprinted across the ice field. She squinted, protecting her eyes from the sun and the blowing snow. Kayi huddled next to her father, taking great care not to interfere with his driving. She had curled into a ball, covering her ears with her hands as the hide rug had fallen away.
Ayana attended to her daughter’s exposed flesh. She took her hands into her own and rubbed the skin fiercely. Already they were blue from the cold. Three days ago, in a moment of negligence, Kayi had dropped her gloves over the rim of a ledge. Although hunger was fierce, the girl still had the energy of youth and played with the dogs using her gloves as a toy. A quick reprimand sent the stricken child to the rocks to hide. Moments later, the gloves went over the edge.
Ayana was forever grateful that it was Caribou hide and not her child that lay at the bottom of the cliff. Since then, she worried that her daughter’s hands would freeze and she would have to watch her fingers fall to the ground, black and shriveled, as had her grandmother’s.
As Kayi’s hands warmed from her frantic ministrations, Ayana looked to her husband for strength. Her heart blossomed with love. Strong and capable, he handled the dogs with ease as they shot across the snow. She had great confidence in his tracking skills and his ability to lead them to the new land beyond the white ice mountains. She just wished they had never decided to leave the camp of her birth to follow the Caribou. She missed her mother, her cousins, the security of the main camp, and the great hunts and celebrations that followed.
She pulled her robe tighter.
Exposed skin grew numb. She knew it was dangerous to follow the way of the herd. Her father, Kirta, had tried to persuade her not to follow her mate. Who would touch hands with Kayi in the land of the sun, he demanded to know. The child deserved to have a place at her own hearth. However, the stories of others who had gone before pacified her, giving the assurance of numerous camps far ahead.
Stinging ice and wind bit her face. The basket sled flew down the face of the mountain, the cold slithering in between the cracks and crevices of her fingers, the lines at the corners of her mouth, nose, and eyes. She held tight and they continued onward.
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
“Sasshay on out of here,” Leanore piped, swatting her son Cory on the hip. “Your brother left half an hour ago.” Already he was late for school, a constant problem with this child of hers.
“I’m going.” He grabbed his books from the table and bumped into Kellyn. “Sorry.”
“It’s all right.”
Leanore turned to look at her guest as her son slammed the front door behind him. While Kellyn had bathed and dressed, the young woman’s face was pale with deep circles under her eyes. She asked, “How are you feeling?”
“Not so good. I didn’t sleep well.”
“Nightmares?”
“Some. It’s been a rough couple of days.”
“Sit down. I’ll bring you some eggs.”
Kellyn pulled out a chair. “I’d be happy to pay you for them.”
“That’s not necessary.” Leanore piled Kellyn’s plate with food. A flush of heat rushed into her face, embarrassed by what the young woman perceived as poverty. “You look like you could use a good meal.”
“It smells wonderful, but I have to warn you, I’m almost four months pregnant. Sometimes my stomach rebels.”
Leanore asked, “How do you like Shadow Ley?” She put the dish in front of her. “Coffee?”
“Please. I guess it’s okay. It’s big, that’s for sure.”
“Too big for some.”
Kellyn glanced at her and smiled.
Connie walked into the kitchen, her boots tapping across the floor. She pulled out a chair. “Is there enough for me?” She grinned, glancing at Kellyn’s plate.
“There’s always enough.” Leanore put a dish before her.
Connie broke off a piece of bacon. “Rough night?”
Kellyn nodded. “I dreamed about the little Eskimo girl.”
Leanore poured herself another cup of coffee and added in a large dollop of homemade vanilla cream. “More eggs, Connie?”
“No thanks.”
“How about you, Kellyn?”
Kellyn stared straight into Leanore’s eyes. “Kishtuah. Neckoutvoot nahngock.”
Connie snagged the frayed cuff of Kellyn’s shirt, giving it a good shake as Leanore leaned toward her.
“Crowtooah…”
“Kellyn!” Connie got to her feet.
“Leave her alone.” Leanore lifted a hand to stop her daughter. “She’s in a trance.”
“A what?”
“A trance. It isn’t good to bring her out of it too soon. Let her be. She’ll wake up on her own.”
“Is it dangerous?”
“No.” She positioned herself in front of her guest.
“Pahtahgahmick tightah. Tahng. Ahyokoochetooa.”
Kellyn’s eyes shot open. She took a deep breath and shuddered. “What the hell?”
Leanore grabbed Kellyn’s icy wrists and rubbed them briskly then she snapped the blood vessels just under the skin. “Can you remember anything? You’re so cold!”
“Something about my hands being frozen and something else about wet clothes and needing the dog team.” Her eyes opened wide in terror. “Last night, I dreamed Tonah is Michael and Michael is John. I’d forgotten it until now.”
Hands shaking, Connie grabbed a cup of coffee. “What’s a Tonah?”
“Tonah is not a what. He’s a who.”
“So, who’s Tonah?”
“Michael and John and some other guys, too.”
Connie tried to steady her hands as coffee slopped over the side of her cup. “What are you talking about?” She sat down, the chair squeaking in protest.
“Well, I’m not really sure. Somehow, they’re all tied together. You and Adam, too. There’s something we need to do here. The little girl I saw at the house and in my dream is named Kayi. Michael and John and some guy wearing a golden suit who is also John…well…they are Tonah, Kayi’s father.”
Leanore studied Kellyn, believing her and understanding. Dimensions were known to overlap during times of crisis.
“I know it doesn’t make sense, but bear with me. My name is Ayana. We came from the Bering Strait though we don’t call it that. We’re searching for warm sun and plenty of game to eat. It won’t end in success. I’m not sure how, but we’ll die. In addition, Michael or Tonah is John, just as I’m Ayana.” She sat back, the blood leaving her face. “Oh my God. I sound insane.”
“Not at all,” Leanore said. She considered the convergence at the house, conflicts needing to be resolved. Shenahobet had created an imbalance the four needed to put right. If she encouraged Kellyn to leave Shadow Ley, they might have to do this over again. If she encouraged her to stay, God alone knew what might happen. “Do you remember anything else?”
Kellyn frowned. “Just that it was cold, and we were all afraid. We had very little food to eat, plus we were freezing to death. Good God. I must sound like an idiot. It was just a dream, that’s all.”
“What do you know about reincarnation, or better yet, multidimensionality?” Leanore asked.
Shrugging, Kellyn answered, “Not much. When I was in college studying for my degree in sociology, we discussed reincarnation in psychology, but when I asked Father Clark, he said he’d spit in God’s eye if reincarnation was true.”
“I’m sorry to hear that. You’d think religious people would be more tolerant.”
“I worried more for him than myself. I wouldn’t want to go spitting in God’s eye no matter what the truth was.”
Leanore chuckled. “I think God is big enough to take our anger, our happiness, and even our stupidity as long as we’re walking toward him and not away.”
“I guess. So, Connie said you might be able to help me.”
“Possibly.” Leanore sat at the table and folded her hands. “I don’t like to foist my beliefs onto people, but if you think I might be able to help, I’m glad to try.”
“Thank you. I’d appreciate your advice.”
“What you did just now is called channeling.”
“I’ve heard of it. It’s when you allow a spirit to talk through you.”
“In some cases, yes, but Ayana is not that type of spirit. She is, in a very real way, you, and she’s in trouble.”
Kellyn tilted her head. “How do you know?”
“She’s coming through during a crisis situation. That can only happen if she’s trying to get your attention. She needs you for some reason. Or perhaps, you might need her.”
“But how am I supposed to find out what she wants?”
“My understanding is that as each soul learns in different dimensions, that education is passed on subconsciously to others within the soul circle.” Leanore paused for a moment. “What do you think about a world that exists in more than one dimension?”
“I guess it’s possible.”
Leanore unfolded her hands and tapped the table with a finger. “When you talk of John being Michael and Michael being Tonah, you must understand, while each of them is different, they are also the same. You and Ayana are like that. Part of the same soul only different, and each of you live in different dimensions.”
Filed under Author Open Mic, Events, Giveaway, Guest Author
Cover Reveal: EXTREME MEASURES by Rachel Carrington + Giveaway
Four years ago Erin’s life changed drastically. Her drug-addicted brother killed her parents, and her marriage disintegrated. Her husband, Matt, agent, had done his duty when he’d arrested Stuart, but she’d been too caught up in her own grief to allow him to help her move through the shadows of pain.
Now Matt is back, but it isn’t to attempt reconciliation. Her brother has escaped from Attica, and Erin is his next target. Matt will stop Stuart by any means necessary. But Stuart is a desperate man, and desperate men will do anything to get what they want.
Thrown together by treacherous circumstances, Matt and Erin fight a battle to stay alive and possibly figure out how to put the pieces of their destroyed lives back together again.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I started writing years ago, and my first attempt was a contemporary romance that will never see the light of day. I think I may even have thrown it away by now. It was absolutely horrific as I knew nothing about well…anything to do with writing.
After that, I started writing fantasy romances about wizards and wizards, and once those took off, I segued to paranormal romances (hello, vampires and ghosts) and romantic suspense. I also write articles for various magazines, including The Writer’s Journal, Writer’s Magazine, Writer’s Weekly, Writing for Dollars, Absolute Write, and Funds for Writers.
I’m fortunate to make my home in historical Charleston, South Carolina. Beautiful city. Beautiful people. When I’m not writing, I love to read paranormal romance, romantic suspense, young adult fantasy and paranormal, create videos, shop, cross-stitch, cook, and drink lots of coffee.
Watch for it January 2013
You can find more about Rachel Carrington here: www.dawnrachel.com.
She also offers help to aspiring writers at her blog: www.dawnrachel.com/blog.
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Don’t miss out on Rachel’s giveaway
CLICK HERE TO READ INTERVIEW & EXCERPT
Giveaway/Challenge
Today, I’m giving away a copy of my newest book, Waking Up Immortal. All you have to do is answer this question from the Chapter Excerpt.
What was the name of the agent who was listening in on Chloe and Kier’s conversation?
To ENTER CLICK HERE: a Rafflecopter giveaway
**If you have any trouble submitting your answers via the Rafflecopter, please email your answer to:
murray (dot) jeanm@gmail.com
Filed under Cover Reveal, Events, Guest Author, Uncategorized
Wicked Romance Blog 