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Musings From An Addicted Reader

Musings From An Addicted Reader

Monthly Archives: April 2018

Review: King Size by Lexi Whitlow

30 Monday Apr 2018

Posted by ehmusings in Uncategorized

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King Size: A Royal Bad Boy RomanceKing Size: A Royal Bad Boy Romance by Lexi Whitlow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Norah is an artist traveling Europe and taking the time to enjoy life. With a chance to have one night with a handsome man she meets on an online app, she indulges and regrets it as he flees out of her flat like he had fire on his heels.

Owen is a royal prince, he will not be King but he is tired of the restraints put upon him. Deciding to join a dating app for a night of fun, he meets Norah. He doesn’t want to leave her which is not the norm, but when his older brother looks like he has gone full on cuckoo, he is called back to claim the thrown. He needs a wife though and when fate has Norah crossing paths with him again, he knows she is the one for him. He is not prepared for Norah’s temper but he knows he has made the right choice, now he has to convince Norah.

This was just what I was hoping for. Chemistry off the charts, entertaining banter, and a few surprises along the way. Checking out the rest of the books from this author.

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Review: Mason by Hazel Gower

30 Monday Apr 2018

Posted by ehmusings in Uncategorized

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Mason (Caveman Instinct #4)Mason by Hazel Gower
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mason was going about his business when he stumbled upon Alexa beaten and hiding by a dumpster behind his building. Knowing she was his one right away, the Silvermans were gifted with a soulmate if they were lucky enough to find her. Now Mason is helping Alexa get healthy and keeping her safe. He knows Alexa is young and is doing everything in his power to give her time to grow and explore her wings before they take the next step. However, Alexa feels she is ready but when the danger that was surrounding her before Mason found her returns, all bets are off.

I thoroughly enjoyed this one. There were times I did think Alexa needed to grow up more but overall I thought this was another great addition in the Caveman series. I liked Mason a lot, he was different then the other men in this series.

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Book Blitz: According to Audrey by Happy LaShelle

30 Monday Apr 2018

Posted by ehmusings in Uncategorized

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According to Audrey
Happy LaShelle
Published by: Clean Teen Publishing
Publication date: April 30th 2018
Genres: Adult, Paranormal, Romance

Cautious and introverted, seventeen-year-old Dove spends most of her free time pursuing her one true passion: painting. The twinkling lights of Balboa Island, the ferryboat to the peninsula, the fire pits on Big Corona Beach…these have long been the subjects of her canvases as she daydreams about finding an Audrey Hepburn-film kind of romance.

A hotshot jock is exactly not the type of guy she’s been looking for—but when Leo Donovan drops his cool act to show his vulnerable side, Dove begins to question everything. But first she’ll have to navigate her way through claim-staking mean girls and disapproving parents—and still keep her focus on attending the art school of her dreams.

Being in love turns out to be more complex than the average silver-screen classic. Can Dove follow her heart (and Audrey’s cues) to create her own perfect Hollywood ending?

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

—

EXCERPT:

Leo gently took the bag from my nose and wrapped the ice in the washcloth. “This will be more comfortable,” he said, eyeing my nose like an expert. “It doesn’t look swollen at all, that’s good.” He put the ice into my hand and helped guide it back to my face.

It was not possible to feel any more un-pretty than at this moment. Pain and embarrassment had now mingled into one big uncomfortable feeling. But another feeling was creeping up. I stole another glance at him. He looked like a Hollywood film star from the 1950s—chiseled, with a squinty stare.

I summoned the nerve to look into his eyes and finally spoke. “Thanks, I think I’m okay.” My attraction clashed with my desire to hide. Suddenly I wanted him to go away and stay all at the same time.

His brown eyes locked onto mine, and his mouth turned up at the corners. Was he enjoying my embarrassment? I had no choice but to laugh. “What?” I asked, pulling the ice away from my face.

He grinned and sat down next to me. “Dove, you need to keep the ice on it,” he said, placing it back onto my nose.

The gentle way he said my name made my heart race faster and I searched his face, drinking in its sincerity: his deep gaze—somehow it made me feel safe, and his lips seemed to be just waiting to… kiss me.

All at once, my enamored thoughts screeched to an abrupt stop.

No way.

My stomach twisted into a painful knot. How could I have fallen for the sensitive, caring act? Was I really lame enough to get all dreamy-eyed over a few sweet words and a pack of ice? There was no way I was going to end up as one of his conquests. With the ice still held to my nose, I stood with as much dignity as possible.

“Thanks, I’m fine now.” I lowered the ice and looked straight into his dark, concern-filled eyes, shooting him a glare. “I have to go.”

Author Bio:

Happy LaShelle is a writer, mom of three, and wife to a Basque baker who brings home loaves of crusty sourdough everyday. She lives near the mission bells in sunny Santa Barbara, but loves the cold, rainy banks of London’s Thames River just as much as the sandy shores of her Newport Beach hometown. She studied History at UCLA and enjoys taking pictures of old stuff. Because everything has a story.

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Promo Blitz: The Vampire Within by Laura Daleo

30 Monday Apr 2018

Posted by ehmusings in Uncategorized

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Dark Vampire Fantasy
Date Published: March 2018
Publisher: Story Bound Publishing
 
 photo add-to-goodreads-button_zpsc7b3c634.png
Brandon Cass is not your average teenager. He has a taste for blood—human blood. For sixteen years, he stumbled through life without a hitch until the enigmatic aroma of blood awakened something dark within him. Visions of a beautiful young woman with chocolate brown hair and ocean blue eyes haunt his mind, yet her identity is a puzzling mystery.
His hunger for blood strengthens, and the cravings become too powerful to control. No one is safe, not even his family. To safeguard all he once found dear, Brandon sets out on a quest for answers. In an unfamiliar city, he comes face-to-face with the beautiful young woman, confronts the dark force which controls him, and learns what he must endure to reclaim his soul.
Other Books in the Immortal Kiss Series:
Immortal Kiss
Immortal Kiss Series, Book One
Centuries ago ten powerful vampire gods first walked the earth; their blood thirst knew no boundaries. The destruction of mankind was inevitable. Recognizing their weakness, they selected twelve wise human beings to transform with their godly blood. These twelve, known as The Old Ones and The Council, govern The Ten. A blood lottery appeasing The Ten’s hunger was set forth into the human world and passed down every fifth generation, continuing into the present day.
All of Beth Ryan’s life a mysterious mist has watched over her; a mist she believed to be a vampire. On a cold winter night, Philippe Delon, a 700-year-old vampire walks into Beth’s life. She is drawn to him, certain he is the vampire behind the mist…but is he?
Beth and Philippe cannot deny their love for each other, nor do they try to fight it. Within days of their encounter, Beth accepts Philippe’s invitation to move into his mansion. The mansion unlocks the door to the vampire world and exposes secrets from Beth’s past. Within its walls, she learns the true identity of the mist, her link to the blood lottery, and betrayal of her loved ones. Surrounded by lies, Beth stands before The Council begging for resolution.
AMAZON
Bound by Blood
Immortal Kiss Series, Book Two
Five years crawled by at a painfully slow pace for young vampire, Beth; each year more agonizing than the next. The powerful unyielding spell which masked Amon’s whereabouts showed no signs of weakening.  Influenced by the binding ritual and Amon’s blood surging inside her, Beth will stop at nothing, and risk everything, to find him and turn the tables on Osiris, Isis, and Hathor.  In foggy streets of London, lives are threatened by a new breed of hunter, and nothing is what it seemed.  Beth once again finds herself surrounded by betrayal.  In the midst of it all, she is forced to choose between Philippe and Amon – knowing that her decision will change one life forever. But whose?
AMAZON
Excerpt
CHAPTER 1
              
I jumped out of bed at the very last second, took a quick shower, threw on some clothes and raced downstairs. As my mom nagged me about the time, I shoved a piece of toast in my mouth, washed it down with some OJ, then dashed out the door seconds before the school bus pulled up. As usual, my fellow classmates were taunting the new kid, Roger, and Mr. Gilbert, the bus driver, was yelling out his customary, “Knock it off!” at them. I flopped down in an empty seat at the back of the bus and let out a frustrated groan. Could my life be any more boring?
I dragged my feet as I made my way into Mrs. Clark’s history class and claimed my usual seat.  Whose bright idea was it to make history first period? Staying conscious while Mrs. Clark rambled on about a bunch of dead people who changed the world was near impossible. I slid farther down in my chair and was about to initiate full zone-out mode when Sam walked into class.
An electric jolt zapped me upright—I could smell her. The scent quickened my pulse and sent my heartbeat skyrocketing. My mouth watered as a feverish hunger growled in the pit of my stomach. It wasn’t her perfumed skin or freshly shampooed hair. No, it was musky and unpleasant. It got under my skin, and I found it terribly distracting.
As Sam caught me staring, a proud smirk washed over her face. She tossed her golden-blonde hair over her shoulder and slid her slender body into the wooden desk in front of me, then turned around and locked eyes with me, her smug grin widening.
I couldn’t take my eyes off her. Her distracting aroma swiftly traveled up my nose, lighting up my brain. Shivers scurried down my spine, spinning my head…what was that smell?
As Sam tugged playfully on my hair, she whispered, “I’ve been waiting forever for you to notice me, Brandon.” She paused, looking me up and down. “Meet me after class on the front steps.”
I didn’t hesitate to agree. “Okay.”
She winked. “I have a surprise for you.”
My stomach flip flopped and my palms grew sweaty. Surprise? I had no idea what she meant, but I sure as hell was gonna find out.
Sam’s smell manipulated my brain, blurring Mrs. Clark’s words together. Once, I got wasted at one of my parents’ Christmas parties. I’d chugged down every half-finished glass of beer, wine, or hard liquid abandoned on the table to the point where my head spun out of control. Sam’s scent mimicked that same effect. I wanted to gorge on it, whatever it was. The sudden ring of the school bell, announcing the end of first period, snapped me out of the muddled fog.
Sam touched my shoulder and whispered, “You go first and I’ll meet you there.”
I obeyed and headed straight for the front steps with my heartbeat throbbing inside my throat.
The breeze carried her fragrance. She was behind me; I knew it. My knees wobbled as I turned around.
Sam was inches from me, batting her eyelashes and smiling. She giggled and seized my trembling hand. “Come with me.” She steered me toward the park and away from the vigilant eyes at the school. Within the boundaries of the trees and their interlocking branches, we sat, facing each other.
“What’s my surprise?” I asked, my breath speeding up.
“A kiss.” She grinned sheepishly, then planted her lips over mine.
That smell of hers hammered at the inner walls of my brain. Every muscle twitched, and heat spread over my skin. I pulled away and blurted out, “What’s that smell? It’s driving me crazy!”
She flinched, and her cheeks flushed bright red. “You can smell me?”
“Yes.”
“I…I don’t know what to say. This is so embarrassing.” She looked away from me. “I’m on my period,” she whispered.
That was it—blood! Rich, dark, delicious blood! Wait, blood?  Delicious? Was it? I jammed my fingertips into my temples. Her scent was screwing with my head, but I had to taste her. Cupping her face, I kissed her hard and bit her tongue. Warm, coppery blood spilled into my mouth, bringing to life a slew of delightful shivers. 
Her high-pitched squeal struck my eardrums, but I didn’t care. Her fluids overpowered all my senses. I swished her blood between my teeth, like mouthwash, before spitting it into the palm of my hand. A thick, gooey, red substance coated my fingers. Its power hypnotized me and…altered me. I hungered after it. My tongue darted out of my mouth and snatched up the blood staining my skin. Upon my virgin swallow, I released the low growl swelling in my throat. Out of the corner of my eye, I caught sight of her. Her face had turned a shade of ghastly-white, and her eyes bulged out of their sockets. She opened her mouth wide, blasting out another petrified shriek. It echoed inside my ears, yanking me back to reality. I held my hands up and backed away from her, shaking my head. “I’m so sorry. Please forgive me…I’m so sorry.”
She scrambled to her feet, gave my shin a swift kick, and shouted, “Freak!” As she ran away, she threatened, “I’m going to tell everyone what you did.  Everyone!”
I wandered the park aimlessly with my thoughts spiraling. I bit her! Why, why, why? The blood…it made me do it! My feet stumbled to a grinding halt. Her blood coerced me; I knew it with every ounce of my being. Was that even impossible? Was I losing my mind? I had to get away from the school. I grabbed my cell and called my mom.
She picked up on the second ring. “Brandon, why aren’t you in class?” Her voice sounded strained. “Is something wrong?”
“I’m sick, Mom.” My voice cracked. “P–Please come get me.”
“Of course, honey.”
“Hurry.”
“Ten minutes, if that,” she answered in a lulling tone. “Don’t worry.”
My shoulders quaked, threatened by a wall of tears building behind my eyelids. For the second time that day, I waited on the front steps of the school, a different person—a person who craved blood—a freak!
As my mom’s car turned into the parking lot, I bolted toward it. The car hadn’t even come to a complete stop when I yanked on the handle and slid inside.
She gave me a heartfelt look, then immediately placed her hand to my forehead. “No fever, so that’s good. How is it you don’t feel well?”
Looking into her eyes made me want to ball like a baby. I looked away, then shuddered. “I ache all over.”
Again, she touched my forehead, then each cheek. “I’ll make you some soup when we get home.” She paused, then added, “Your sister’s going to be jealous.”
Soup wasn’t going to fix my problem, and I certainly couldn’t tell my mom I’d bit a girl’s tongue. I couldn’t tell my sister either. I couldn’t tell anyone. I forced a smile and glanced at her. “Soup sounds good. Better make enough for Lindsey or she’ll be really jealous.”
Her vivacious laugh filled my ears. “You’re probably right.”
As the car pulled away from the school, the knot twisting my stomach relaxed; though, the gruesome act of biting Sam was less forgiving. The image was forever etched into my brain. I sank deeper into the seat and shuddered.
My mom glanced at me with a line of concern pinching her forehead. “Are you all right?”
That was the million-dollar question. I heaved a sigh. “My head’s pounding. I just want to lie down.”
“Thank goodness we live so close.” She shook her head and her frown deepened. “This came on so sudden. When you dashed out of the house this morning, you were fine.”
I shrugged my shoulders.  I was fine, until Sam changed things. Turning onto our street, she added, “I hate it when my kids get sick.”
“I’ll be okay.” I lied, but my mom needed the reassurance.
“Of course you will.”
As my mom pulled into our driveway, I pushed open my door. I didn’t even wait for her to kill the car’s engine before I was hurrying into the house with large strides, running up the stairs and into my room. I flopped onto my bed and buried my face in my pillow. The sobs I’d been fighting all day gained on me. My eyelids gave way to the mounting pressure behind them, spilling hot tears down my cheeks and drenching the pillowcase. My mom walked in during the height of my waterworks display. I quickly swiped at my face, brushing away the tears before sitting up.
“Brandon, honey, take a sip of 7UP,” she said, sitting next to me and handing me a can of soda.
I shoved the soda aside on the nightstand, then latched onto her, letting my tears flow again. “Tell me I’m not a horrible person,” I cried.
Her arms came around me in a loving embrace. “Why in the world would you say such a thing?” She cupped my face in the palms of her hands. “You’re my prefect sixteen-year-old son.”
My breath hitched inside my chest as I thought of the why. “I don’t know. I just…I just need some sleep.”
My mom pulled two round white pills from her sweater pocket, then reached for the 7UP. “Here’s two aspirin.” She stroked my head, then rose from the bed. “I’ll start the soup. Try to rest while it’s cooking.” She quietly closed the door, leaving me alone.
I washed down the pills and fell back onto the pillows, my gaze drifting toward the ceiling. Sam’s horrified face spread across it and I jerked my eyes away, burying my face into a pillow. Sam, I’m so sorry. She’d never forgive me. I couldn’t forgive myself. There was no forgiving what I’d done. What kind of person bites another person? A freak, that’s who.
A Google search could pinpoint what was wrong with me. I glanced at my laptop resting on my desk and shivered. Bad idea. Searching the internet for reasons why someone craved blood might uncover something far worse.
A rock of fear landed in the pit of my stomach. I bolted into my bathroom and splashed cold water on my face. I caught my reflection in the mirror as I toweled off the clammy sweat and stared hard, searching for the slightest change—same hazel eyes, sandy-brown hair, and dimpled cheeks looked back at me. I didn’t see a freak or a monster, just me.
I wandered back to my bed and sank deeper into the pillows. The feather-down cradled me, programming my brain to shut down and summon sleep. My eyelids grew heavy, sliding down over my eyes like curtains.  I didn’t fight it and drifted off.
The creak of my bedroom door sounded inside my head like an alarm. My eyelids fluttered and slowly opened, my vision coming into focus. My sister stood in the doorway, her school books tucked under her arm.  “What do you want, Lins?”
Lindsey bounced into my room, unloaded her books on my desk, before sitting on the edge of it.  As she twirled a strand of her brownish-blonde hair around her finger, her big green eyes studied me. “You really sick or just faking?”
What I wouldn’t give to be faking the whole mess. I rolled my eyes. “I’m not faking.”
She plastered one of those ‘I don’t believe you’ looks on her face and heaved a sigh as her shoulders sagged. “I hate high school.”
That was so Lindsey; everything was always about her. I leaned against the headboard and folded my arms. “Why?”
“I was so popular in junior high. Everyone knew me or wanted to know me. Now, I’m at the bottom of the fish bowl, like scum. My social status is non-existent.”
I couldn’t help but smirk. “Social status, really?  Lins, you’re fourteen.”
She turned her nose up at me. “Like sixteen’s old. Besides, I happen to like being popular.” She pouted. “Ninth grade sucks.”
“Eleventh grade isn’t any easier,” I pointed out. “The twelfth graders have all the power.”
“Hmph. It just isn’t fair.” She paused, scrunching her eyebrows together. “Something’s really wrong with you, isn’t there?  You’re doing that thing with your forehead.”
I swiped a hand across my brow. “What thing?”
“Pulsating the vein in the center of your forehead.” She shuddered. “Gross. You always do it when you’re stressing out.”
I waved her off. Truth be told, though, I was in major stress mode. A whiff of chicken turned my head toward the doorway. Mom entered, carrying a breakfast tray.
“Ready for some soup?” She set the tray of steaming chicken noodle soup, soda crackers, and another can of 7UP next to me on the bed. “I came up earlier, but you were asleep.”
I licked my lips. “So ready.”
She touched her hand to my forehead. “Still no fever. That’s good, honey. Eat your soup and get some rest.”
Lindsey leaned in and took a deep breath. “Mom, that smells delish.”
“There’s plenty more downstairs.” She smoothed Lindsey’s hair and gave her a smile. “Why don’t you join me downstairs for a bowl.”
Lindsey jumped off my bed and scooped up her books. “Totally.” She glanced back at me. “Feel better.”
“Thanks, Lins.”
“I’ll check in on you later,” Mom said, then followed Lindsey out of my room and shut the door behind her.
I scarfed down the soup and crackers, then chugged half the can of 7UP. I pushed the tray aside and let out huge sigh. Once more, I fell back onto the pillows and closed my eyes.
****
I woke to a dark room. A shaft of moonlight cut through the curtains, stretching across the room and shining right in my face, letting me know it was still night. I rolled over to the opposite side of my bed and pulled the covers over my head, blocking out the light. An empty feeling settled in the pit of my stomach. It wasn’t hunger, it was the thought of school. I dreaded staring into Sam’s unforgiving eyes, and all the pairs of eyes of the people she’d told. I’d tell her I’d contracted a disease, and maybe I had. The creak of my bedroom door shattered my thoughts. Mom entered and flipped on the light, causing me to flinch. I can’t go to school tomorrow. I just can’t.
“Brandon, how are you feeling?” Mom asked, touching her hand to my forehead for the hundredth time.
Her warm fingers pulsated with thick, rich, tasty blood against my skin. No, not again!  I jerked away from her and scrambled to the opposite side of the room, sinking to the floor. She hurried after me, a thumping vibration following her. The suffocating hum wrapped around my brain, growing louder and louder. I slammed my hands over my ears and wailed.
“Brandon, what’s wrong?” Mom dropped to her knees in front of me, her hands latching onto my arms. “Oh my God, you’re shivering.”
The thumping was coming from her—her heartbeat! Every crushing thud swelled inside my chest, sucking the air from my lungs. I squished a hand between us and pried her away, but she only clung tighter as she screamed for my dad.
With her cry for help, his footsteps pounded against the carpeted stairs as he rushed to her aid.  As my dad charged into my room, the thumping magnified. I sat there, imprisoned on the floor, convulsing with each beat of their hearts. The room grew fuzzy as my vision blurred. Lindsey’s panicked squeal filled my ears, then all sound faded away to nothing.
The next time I opened my eyes, I was back in bed. A shaft of light from the hallway penetrated through the opening of my bedroom door, while multiple heartbeats sounded off inside my ears. I rolled over to face the doorway. My mom and Dr. Erickson, our next-door neighbor, stood just outside my room, wearing green hospital scrubs. She must have caught him either going to the hospital or just getting home. They spoke in hushed tones. I couldn’t make out every word, but I caught something about oxygen to the brain and low blood pressure.
This wasn’t any kind of illness. This was some sick craving for blood, and the second time it had manipulated me. Would there be more? How far would I go to satisfy the need? Would I resort to violence again? Would I hurt my parents, or Lindsey? A thin layer of sweat coated my skin as I twisted the sheets between my clammy fists. “Never!” I shouted.
My mom popped her head in. “I’ll be right there, Brandon.” She faced Dr. Erickson and squeezed his hands. “John, I can’t thank you enough for stopping by and checking on Brandon.”
“No need to thank me, Diane, but keep that appointment.”
“Yes, of course.”
“Goodnight. Call me anytime.” He gave her a nod and went on his way.
She hurried to my bedside, that motherly look of concern tugging at her eyebrows. “Honey, how are you feeling?”
“Tired…weak.” Scared I’m turning into a bloodthirsty monster.
She patted my hand. “Dr. Erickson reached out to Dr. Stewart. We’ve got an appointment with him tomorrow morning at nine.”
I heaved an exaggerated sigh in protest. “Do I have to go? You know how he is. He’ll run every test in the world.”
The motherly look intensified. “You gave me and your father, not to mention Lindsey, quite a scare. The subject is not up for debate. You’re going.” Her face softened, and she planted a kiss on my cheek. “Close those gorgeous hazel eyes and get some rest.” She stared at me for several seconds before leaving my side.
As she closed my door, I shuddered. If she knew the truth, she’d haul my ass to the nuthouse instead of the family physician.
Once more, my door opened halfway. Lindsey peeked around the frame. “Can I come in?”
That was a first. She never asked. I must’ve really freaked her out by fainting. “Yeah, sure.”
She approached my bed, stopping inches away. Her face twisted like she was in pain. “You scared me.” Her voice was gentle and soft, lacking its usual self-centeredness.
I put on my most thoughtful expression. “I didn’t mean to scare you, or Mom, or Dad. Mom says I’ve got to go to see Dr. Stewart tomorrow.”
“That’s probably a good thing. He’ll go all test happy and find what’s wrong.”
I busted out laughing. “That’s what I said.” I let myself get serious and lowered my voice. “I’m kind of scared. What if there’s something wrong with me, something that can’t be fixed?”
She nudged my shoulder. “It’ll be okay. Don’t worry.”
“What if it’s not?”
She locked her gaze on me. “It will. You’re my big brother, and I need you.”
I cracked a smile. “You mean, you need someone to boss around.”
A giggle escaped her, and more seemed to struggle to get out before she shook them off and held her chin high. “Not true.”
I let out a bemused huff. “Yeah, right. You’ve been bossing me around since you learned to talk. When we lived in that tiny apartment and had to share a room, you claimed top bunk and ordered me to sleep on the bottom bunk. Remember?”
She shuddered, then rubbed her arms. “That bedroom was haunted. I’ll never forget that girl’s voice humming that lullaby. No way was I sleeping on the bottom where she could pop out from under the bed and grab me.”
I rolled my eyes and waved her away. “I told you then and I’m telling you now, it was Mom.  She was probably standing outside our door, trying to get us to go to sleep.”
“That voice had come from inside our room, and it wasn’t Mom. It was a ghost,” she insisted with a firm nod.
My gaze drifted toward the ceiling as I conjured up the past, then I faced her. “It didn’t sound ghostlike or creepy to me. It had more of a calming effect as I remember.”
She jutted her chin in my direction. “Maybe for you.”
I released a low sigh. “Well, right now, I could use that calming lullaby.”
“Everything will be okay,” she said again, then hugged me.
I hugged her back, and longer than normal before releasing her. “Thanks, Lins. It’s late, go back to sleep. I’ll be fine.”
She searched my eyes. “You’re sure?”
I waved her toward the door. “I’m sure.”
“Okay.” She kept her gaze on me as she backed up into the doorway. A half-smile came to her lips before she closed the door, leaving me alone.
After staring at the ceiling for quite some time, sleep finally took over and Sam entered my dreams. She lay motionless beneath me as I hunched over her like a crazed animal. I’d ripped her apart, limb by limb, my face buried inside her open wounds, guzzling mouthfuls of blood.
My eyelids flew open and I scurried off my bed, flipping on the light, the nightmare still fresh in my mind. My heartbeat throbbed inside my throat as I skimmed over my room. Familiar surroundings fell into my sightlines; my guitars, rock-n-roll memorabilia, skateboards, and gaming equipment. I wiped the sweat off my forehead, trembling, and sank to the floor. Tears rushed forward and spilled down my cheeks as I feared the significance behind my nightmare.
About the Author

Laura Daleo was born and raised in San Diego, California where she majored in Fine Arts at Mesa College. She is best known for her love of animals and shares her home with three humorous Basset Hounds, Stuart, Morgan, and Dexter, her toughest critics. Laura has held positions in several industries, Restaurant, Telecom, Biotech, Research, and Retail. Throughout Laura’s professional career, she furthered her writing skills by taking courses and by joining writer’s critique groups and Writers Digest. She is now the owner of Story Bound Publishing, a fresh voice in the supernatural realm of ebooks and traditional print, committed to publishing unearthly tales of Aliens, Angels, Demons, Fairies, Ghosts, Shifters, Vampires, Werewolves, Witches, Zombies and all other creatures that go bump in the night.
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Book Blitz: Assassin’s Soul by Noella Royce

30 Monday Apr 2018

Posted by ehmusings in Uncategorized

≈ 2 Comments



Assassin’s Soul
Noella Royce
(The Angel Crusades, #1)
Publication date: April 30th 2018
Genres: Adult, Paranormal, Romance

He’s an enigma. Seductive, dominant, dismissive, distant… and this just makes her want him more.

He’s an Adonis, all rippling muscles, magnetic charisma, and supernatural strength

And just might be a murderer

Why can’t I stay away from him?

All our lives are on the line on this mission

But the one man I can’t trust is the one I desire

Two groups, the empaths and the tattooed assassins, have joined together to attempt to wrest control of the city of Chicago from the evil demon sorcerer who invaded and took it over ten years before. Andie Oster simply wants to focus on the mission at hand and try to keep herself and her friends alive, challenges made harder by the fact that their new assassin teammates and their commander don’t seem to trust the empaths.

This is especially true of their field leader Dante, a magnetic killer with dark eyes, an insane body, and emotions locked behind a tight wall that no empath can reach. Andie is instantly drawn to Dante, and can’t stop herself from hooking up with him even when he’s dismissive, behavior she’d never put up with before in a guy.

What was it about him she couldn’t resist, and why was she sure he was more than he appeared?

And would her infatuation get them all killed, since there was a murderer in their midst, and all the clues pointed to Dante being the culprit?

Assassin’s soul is an 80k paranormal romance about inexplicable connection in high-tension situations with empaths, assassins and demons. Guaranteed HEA, no cheating and no cliffhanger, explicit sex.

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—

Q&A with Noella Royce

What was your inspiration for Assassin’s Soul?
This is a bit embarrassing to admit, as it’s so very silly, but the idea came to me, almost fully formed, after watching the John Hughes film “Sixteen Candles” for the first time in many a moon. I’ve always enjoyed the romance between Samantha and Jake Ryan but thought they that two year age gap would be a serious issue in keeping them together. So I had this sequel in my head where they were apart for a few years, grew up, and came back together as stronger, more mature people. (I do this to romances I enjoy, mentally write what happens next; I know I liked a story when I can’t stop following the characters in my head!).

I started to think about how that could be an original story, and somehow psychics and demon killing assassins was where my brain went. Then the idea sat for a couple of years while I changed careers and moved.

Then the story of Dante and Andie knocked on my mental door again, and from there came the creation of the whole of the Angel Crusades series.

What did you learn while writing this book, your first M/F novel length PNR romance?
World-building is easy compared to getting the romance and chemistry between the main characters right! Especially when your guy barely talks and mostly glowers. That took some balance on my part.

In your world, Angels and Demons are neither inherently good or inherently evil – what led to that decision?
One of the things I love most about paranormal romance is its flexibility, namely, the ability to take existing myths, fairy tales, and supernatural tropes and spin them any which way that you’d like. Angels and demons are such powerful concepts, even beyond religion; the idea of ‘demons’, creatures from the underworld who work for a diety of evil, persists in many cultures, and the idea of angels has appeal beyond their religious meaning. “She’s a little angel”, the idea of “guardian angels”, “send me an angel” (great song!) – the symbolism and appeal is undeniable, and I wanted to take the idea of these two ancient foes and make them my own.

I approached each as different cultures with diametrically opposed values and beliefs, and built out their ancient conflict from there.

And, of course, it’s super fun to figure out what pairings to do, mixes to create! I can do angel/demon, human/angel, human/demon, half-demons, half-angels – so many fun options!

What romance authors are your inspiration?
I actually take inspiration from all genres, as I’m kinda a book and category magpie. But in PNR and UF I love Nalini Singh, Illona Andrews, Charlene Harris, Patricia Briggs, Stacia Kane, T.S. Joyce… So many great authors! I adore YA UF, but at the same time I’m not sure I could ever write it; I like the complications and sensuality that come with adult relationships. In the regency space I think Cat Sebastian, Eloisa James and Sarah MacLean are goddesses and amazing writers. I can love contemporary romance, but it can also frustrate the crap out of me; I find too many very well written books use a fatal stupidity or insecurity of the heroine as the dramatic engine, and this makes me want to fling it across the room. As the book is usually on my Kindle, this could get hella expensive very fast!

Author Bio:

Noella Royce has been writing romance casually for about a decade, but she came up with the idea for the Angel Crusades and decided to fling herself into the self-publishing world whole hog and with bells on. She loves mixing metaphors, having about ten different books in ten different genres going at any given time, sewing, reading manga, and annoying her cats and husband in equal measure.

If you’d like to keep up to date with Noella’s latest releases and what she’s up to, please check out her webpage at http://www.noellaroyce.com and sign up for her newsletter!

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Review: The Bobcat’s Tale by Georgette St. Clair

29 Sunday Apr 2018

Posted by ehmusings in Uncategorized

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The Bobcat's Tale (Blue Moon Junction, #2)The Bobcat’s Tale by Georgette St. Clair
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bobcat shifter Lainey Robinson is hiding out pretending she is her best friend after her parents and supposed fiancee betrayed her. Vacationing in Blue Moon Junction is just what she needs, but when the town’s psychic declares she will meet her fated mate at the Alpha’s wedding she doesn’t know what to think. Throw in a hot alpha male named Tate who has a bunch of precocious siblings and a missing tiara you have a romance in the making but when her past is revealed will he still stand by her side?

This was a lot of fun. I thought Tate’s family was a hoot and thoroughly enjoyed the other characters in the story. Lainey had problems understanding the welcoming response of the people in Blue Moon because she had not had that before. Highly entertaining.

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Book Blitz: Nobody’s Baby But Mine by Gloria Silk

29 Sunday Apr 2018

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Nobody’s Baby But Mine
Gloria Silk
Publication date: April 28th 2018
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

From USA Today Bestselling Author, Gloria Silk this is a gripping, romantic and sensuous novel of marriage, fidelity, fertility and the power of love.

“Gripping, romantic, sensuous and astute.”

“New women’s fiction that touches all of our emotions, fulfills our yearnings, and opens up new possibilities.”

Can Rachel and James find their way back into each other’s hearts after tasting temptation and facing devastating news? How strong is love in the face of reality? The seven year marriage between Rachel and her adoring patient saint of a husband has grown from great to blessed. But after years of failing to get pregnant all Rachel craves is a baby.

Her marriage to James is perfect…until she bumps into her sexy ex-lover, Brandon. Her desperate thought of wondering if he can get her pregnant makes Rachel realize that something has to change. After having more fertility tests she meets a beautiful pregnant career woman. It seems destined, and as they bond the young woman offers Rachel a gift that will change all their lives.

But has Rachel pushed her suddenly aloof husband away? Is it really his pressure at work or is he keeping something from her? Can they ever become a happy family, or is it too little too late? And where does Brandon come into all this when she discovers her husband’s biggest betrayal?

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

—

READ CHAPTER 1:

March

The March rain pelting the kitchen windows made Rachel think of tears. And there were indeed tears in her eyes as she told JT that their best friends’ marriage was over. The inseparable love birds, Tina and Andy, were the last couple they thought would lose in the marriage roulette. Rachel had also thought that their two young children were another unbreakable bond.

Her husband frowned as he looked up from his poached salmon and asparagus laden plate. “I didn’t even know they were having problems.”

Her temples throbbed. She had been too self-absorbed with her own life and yearning for a baby that she hadn’t noticed any signs or cracks in Tina’s marriage.

Some friend you are, Rachel.

“He was having an affair with a friend of theirs since Justin was born. Tina didn’t suspect a thing…It’s so sad how everything can change so suddenly. Why would a man jeopardize his whole family life like that?”

How fragile life and relationships seemed.

Nervous for all marriages she thanked God for her own strong bond with JT. Despite their issues of unexplained infertility, their marriage was blessed even after seven-and-a-half years.

“I’m sorry to hear this. I’m shocked…but maybe he wasn’t getting what he needed from her—”

“What? Tina’s been a great wife and very patient with him all these years.” She felt her anger rise thinking of Tina’s meddling mother-in-law—so much like her own—and Andy’s fledgling music production business, which had ostensibly kept him away from home for days at a time. “It’s disgusting what he’s done.”

“I agree, but no one knows what really goes on behind closed doors.” He sighed, “But there’s never any excuse to screw up a marriage.”

Rachel shook her head. “No, and especially with Emily and Justin….” How would Tina manage with her five-year-old daughter and almost three-year-old son on her own?

He shook his head. “He’s a fool. I’m disappointed for them all.” He glanced at her, his fork half way to his lips, “Don’t worry, Rachel, I know how much you care for her. All you can do is be there for them.” He then put a salmon morsel in his mouth.

“Communication is the most important thing in any marriage, right?”

She felt JT’s eyes bore into hers as he watched her across the narrow mahogany kitchen table. Putting down his cutlery he reached for her hand nearest to him. She adored that sparkle in his gunmetal-grey eyes and that slow smile.

“We’re not like the rest, to do anything stupid and ruin everything.” With a quirked brow his thumb massaged the top of her hand.

Her heart skittered at JT’s deep knowing expression the way it had when they met at a mutual friend’s wedding in London nine-and-a-half years ago. He seemed to always know how to brighten her moods, make her smile, feel safe and whole.

He kept her grounded, focussing on what mattered most; them: them, together.

Rachel would concentrate on her part-time job with Gareth Robinson-Brown’s real estate agency and not drive herself crazy about why she was still not pregnant after five years of trying. She remembered JT’s wise words after their last specialist appointment a couple of months ago to stay patient and positive and not let anyone stress her out. That was why she had given up running her own team in a Central London agency three years ago.

Neither did she get too involved in her younger sister’s private life. Emotionally supporting the twenty-five year-old Abby without getting sucked into the turmoil of her sister’s love life was proving wise and healthier for both sisters. She pushed aside the uneasiness she had felt seven months ago when she had met Rick, the new boyfriend. Abby had seemed happy with a bright ‘I’m in love’ smile at her trendy restaurant in Islington, but the phone calls had petered out over the last couple of months. Rachel resolved to call and see how she was doing.

In the meantime, she would be truly present for Tina. She took in a breath and slowly exhaled and felt a smile play on her lips. “I know you’d never dare stray, because I’d just have to kill you.” She threw him an arch look.

JT grinned. “I’d never want to be with another woman but you, and you know it. And it can work both ways. I’d strangle any guy who even looks at you in that way.” His eyes darkened, his passionate lips thinning into a resolute line on that handsome rugged face, making her smile broaden. “Like your old boyfriend we bumped into… where was that? The French restaurant soon after we met.”

“Brandon.” Her pulse raced for a few seconds and then settled. “It was our second date.”

“Ah, so you still remember the name of that pretty-boy, no-good gigolo.” The twinkling glint in his eyes was warm and inviting. “You’ll have to make up for that, wench.”

“I truly love you, JT. How did I get so lucky?”

He smiled again. “You’re going in the right direction.” He let go of her hand for the moment it took to push his chair back and come and stand beside her. Holding both her hands he raised her left one to his lips. His touch was always simultaneously calming and arousing. He leaned towards her. “Am I reading those sexy brown eyes right? There’s more than one choice for dessert to make up for…”

She licked the corner of her lower lip while he stared at her mouth as if it was a luscious strawberry, his favourite fruit. Especially when served with melted semi-sweet dark chocolate.

“Devil’s food cake and chocolate dipped strawberries.”

His lips slowly gravitated towards her mouth.

Even after all these years together, Sundays were their full day and night for each other and no one else. Their routine became a variation of sharing a long shower or an indulgent hot soak in the tub before dinner.

Before long they lay in each other’s arms against the soft cushions on the large Persian rug. The large fire in the regal fireplace shed heat and golden light over their naked skin and the plush cream throw. The intermittent crackling of the flames accompanied Nora Jones in the background. The light banter between them changed as JT gently placed Rachel’s empty wine glass on the sofa table beside the plate with the single remaining chocolate-dipped strawberry.

He leaned closer. “I’ll make you forget everything and everyone tonight.” JT murmured low, nuzzling his lips against her ear and migrating to her other sensitive erogenous zones. Almost purring, she lay back welcoming his explorations. Her arms encompassed his broad shoulders. She closed her eyes and counted her lucky stars. Everything would work out, even filling the nursery with their gorgeous, healthy baby. Pushing the thought out by letting the languid feelings of their intimacy flood her mind, she gave herself over completely to the bliss.

“I’ll always adore you.” He groaned, inhaling into her throat. Her pulse and heart beats quickened as he explored her skin and his lips hovered so close to hers. “Don’t ever doubt it.”

“I know. I—I love you, too.” Shivers of anticipation made her voice shake. Then they were kissing, hungry and sated at the same time. As always, his touch and sure kisses covering her tingling skin melted her insides.

Lightly, her shaking fingertips traced a butterfly-light line from his neck to his shoulders. His hard biceps stiffened at her caress. She loved his strong physique. Running impatient fingers through his thick silky hair she directed his head lower and kissed him deeper. She was home, warm and stimulated, marvelling how neither tired of making love with each other despite their pressures. His work and her constant hopes for a baby.

Almost of their own volition, her hands roved down his straining back muscles, as her legs tightened around his taut buttocks and hips to meld even closer into each other.

Everything outside their circle vanished. Well, almost everything.

Author Bio:

Ever since Gloria Silk was little her passion was creating and sharing her romantic stories with others. She always loved reading contemporary and historical novels that grasped her imagination. Gloria now writes intense, sensuous love stories.

In addition to writing romance and women’s fiction, she enjoys writing intercultural romances and about family bonds. What can be more important in life than love and family?

Born in Russia, Gloria Silk has visited and lived in amazing, exotic places in the world. Loving Europe (especially the English, Italian and French countryside) and the Mediterranean, her other favorite country is Hawaii. She has yet to visit India and Australia, her dream destinations in the name of research, of course!

Being a writer gives her the privilege to explore, travel, and meet wonderful, new and exciting—and sometimes eccentric—people. Her background in English literature, writing, and psychology helps her create unique characters for her stories. Especially the charismatic heroes and feisty heroines who find themselves in sticky situations with each other, their families, and their cultures. There is nothing more satisfying than knowing readers love her warm heroines and the gorgeous enigmatic heroes, like she falls in love with them.

When she is not painting in various media or watching romantic movies, or cooking up a storm for her family and friends, she hangs out with her writing friends and other creatives.

Although she was brought up in England, she now lives – and writes – in the Toronto, Canada, with her own love of her life, soul-mate husband, her gorgeous and fun daughter and her smart, blonde Cockapoo, Princess Bella.

Please email Gloria Silk with any questions or comments at: contact@GloriaSilk.com

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Promo Blitz: Creole Moon: Book of Roots by S.T. Holmes

28 Saturday Apr 2018

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Fantasy
Date Published: February 2018
Publisher: Toplink Publishing
 
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Creole Moon Book of Roots by S T Holmes is a fantasy fiction set in the early 1900s.  Mamuska, the voodoo priest, needs to return to his home in the Louisiana swamp to renew his strength and vigor, but Ayida, serpent goddess and mother of the demi gods, forbids him to take his wife, Ophelia.  They argue until Ayida becomes angry and conjures a storm as a warning to Mamuska, but he doesn’t heed the warning and slips his wife out of their cosmic home and back into the swamp.
It is Mardi Gras in New Orleans and the year of the Luperci festival, a time for forgiveness in the magic world and correcting wrong doings from magic to right. Unite with our hero, George Genois, from Creole Moon The Betrayal, as he finds his way back into the city at just the right time. He is befriended by a witch named Sephora who gives him shelter and protection, and in return is looking for help from the Luxican, George’s alter being in her quest for the source of all magic. He reluctantly agrees to help her as long as it doesn’t interfere with his plans of revenge and setting things right again, but unknown to him, she is in a battle with her goddess sister who wants to find the coveted Book of Roots first.
The treasure hunt ended in the swamp at the hut of the voodoo priest and priestess. Ophelia had control of a portion of the book of roots but she had no idea of its value as a whole.  She only wanted to keep it away from everyone including her husband, Mamuska. As hard as the others tried to resurrect the book, Ophelia was working equally as hard to keep it hidden, but her powers were no match for the Luxican. Finally, the Luxican was able to succeed in breaking through the magical portal and the precious book dropped to earth next to the heads of the Luxican and Sephora.  Before the purification ceremony could take place, the witch’s sister intervened and a fight broke out between them. This is sibling rivalry at its finest as the sisters fight to win control of the book, but only one will prevail.
George is pulled into the middle of a turbulent battle that draws him deeper into the realm of magic with exceptionally powerful wizards and high priests as allies fighting against dark spirits and other forces of good and evil.  The pagan purification ceremony begins but is fraught with a number of interruptions from Drumangos, dark spirits from the tombs to Sephora’s royal family. It is not until the end of the ceremony that the Luxican realizes he is the key to finding the book of roots and saving the world of magic and all of it must be done before Mardi Gras day ends and the last toll of the midnight cathedral bell is sounded.
This Mardi Gras festival is like non ever seen before or will ever see again in the future.
Other Books in the Creole Moon Series:
Creole Moon: The Betrayal
Publisher: Xulon Press
Published: September 2015
Sgt. George Francis Genois is an officer in the Confederate army. He returns to his hometown in Louisiana to celebrate the wedding of his twin brother Gerald. Mystical events throw him in the path of Jewella Du Viller, a fiery rebellious young woman standing at the river bank stirring the slaves to fight for their freedom. George whisks the woman away from perceived danger and escorts her to her carriage. He discovers later that she is the sister of a childhood friend. He falls madly in love with her and proposes marriage. Before the wedding can take place, she is arrested for treason. George is forced to abandon his military aspirations in order to save the woman he loves. He seeks the aid of a sorcerer, Mamuska and his wife Ophelia. Under a creole moon, the fates of George and Jewella as well as Mamuska and Ophelia are sealed.
Amazon 
Excerpt
Chapter 1
A Small Corner of Mt. Olympus
 It was a picture perfect day in the eastern corner of Mount Olympus.   Giant white clouds lazily drifted pass each other flashing peeks of a brilliant blue sky in between each cloud puff. The sun’s rays provided welcomed warmth to the residents from the previous night’s chill.  It was otherwise, a beautiful, serene day in the region of the demi gods, with the exception of a heated conversation that ensued between Ayida, goddess of the demi gods and mother of the great serpent god Dumballah, and Mamuska, the voodoo high priest of the swamp.  Mamuska always went to Ayida for guidance. Usually, she was supportive of his activities, but this time she was angry with him and argumentative. Nothing he could say would improve her disposition.
“You can’t take her back to the ssswamp with you.” Ayida hissed. Her serpent traits were more pronounced when she was upset, and right now, she was not happy with a number of issues in the demi god’s world.  Mamuska’s insistence of taking Ophelia with him was adding to her discontent.
“Ophelia isss uncontrollable, essspecially in the mortal world.  You promissssed me you would control her and you have not fulfilled that promissse,” Ayida replied.
“I-I know,” Mamuska said, “I really have tried to rein her in, but she has ways of making me do what she wants.” He held his head down and shook it from side to side.
“If allowed to accompany you, ssshe will only bring more unwanted attention to usss. We can’t have that.  All of the magical creaturesss are under a watchful eye right now.  Thisss isss too sssignificant of a year for the magic world.  We ssshouldn’t have to deal with her ssshenanigansss, too.  Ssshe mussst ssstay here.” Ayida said softer now but still forceful enough to get her point across, but Mamuska was determined to sway her to his way of thinking.  Without much thought or concern for his own safety, he continued.
“You know I have to go back.  Look at me.  I am weak and I need to be rejuvenated.  Only Dumballah and his wife Aeida Weido can make the exchange when I am in this depleted condition.  Ophelia can help speed up the process if they don’t want to spend too much time down there among the humans.  We won’t have to be there for very long. Once the transfer takes place, we will return here, to our celestial home where you can keep an eye on her.”
Before Ayida spoke again, dark clouds lined overhead, a crack of lightening flashed through the sky and low sounds of thunder rumbled through the air.  Her long, silky white hair flew out and around her head and face with the rhythm of the wind.  The sky-blue eyes that once looked at him in admiration were now turned into dark, black pools of fury.  Mamuska knew he had pushed too hard and had angered her beyond control. He decided to remain silent before she unleashed her full power on him. When she finally spoke, the cloud that was her home began to dissipate.
“YOU are allowed to return to the mortal world, but your wife, Ophelia, must remain here with usss. No further discussion and NO negotiation. I am unyielding on this point.”
The words were said with such force and vileness that even Mamuska began to shake a little. Ayida flew away from him before she did something she would regret later.  She had always liked Mamuska, but he was weak when it came to THAT woman, and it disgusted her.  It would take some time but she would reveal her true self to him and when she did, he would be free of her forever.
About the Author

S. T. Holmes was born in New Orleans, Louisiana and began creative writing in high school. She has a master’s in Business Management from St. Edward’s University of Austin, Texas, a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Biology from universities in North Carolina. She is currently working as a chief financial officer in Texas but finds time to indulge in her passion for writing.  She says that writing provides a creative outlet and stress relief for her. To share your comments or ask questions about her books, you may write to Suzon via e-mail at suetropez@yahoo.com Creole Moon The Betrayal published October 1, 2015 by Xulon Publishing.
Under the name of Suzon Tropez, she has published: Dynamite Resume Your Calling Card to Success – August 17, 2011 – Dorrance Publisher and High Waters  – October 24, 2005 – Publish America.
Visit her social media pages at Facebook, Tweeter, Tumblr and website, www.stholmes.com.
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Promo Blitz: Best Evidence by Mark S. Osaki

27 Friday Apr 2018

Posted by ehmusings in Uncategorized

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Poetry
Date Published: January 2018
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Evocative, deceptively straightforward and wry poetry that delivers a shock to the system.
Poet Mark S. Osaki covers a number of poignant topics in Best Evidence. Each poem in the four sections gives you a glimpse of a formative moment in Osaki’s life or expands your viewpoint on conflicts in the world. Some poems, like the powerful “Chinese Camp, California,” speak of a larger cultural experience and the nuances of navigating identity as an Asian American. Others still, like “Gun Song,” show the psychological and cultural impact of war. In each new work, Osaki captures powerful moments of longing and loss.
Praise for Best Evidence:
 
“Mark Osaki has shown himself to be one of the best poets of his generation.” – David Rains Wallace, Author, The Klamath Knot: Explorations of Myth and Evolution
 
“I have found the poetic voices of Asian Americans to be among the strongest and most original in contemporary English literature. Among those writers, none impress me more than does Mark Osaki.” – Joseph Bruchac, The Greenfield Review Press
 
“Mark Osaki belongs to no school, follows no master, and has stayed on the far margin of the business part of poetry. His spare style is a vehicle for an outsider’s view of our world. His poetic toughness is not for those who regard poetry as comfort. He is paring his experiences closer to a powerful reporting, as only poetry can report.” – Leonard Nathan
 
Mark S Osaki undertakes to illuminate the difficulty of  establishing one’s home in a nation not one’s own. These often soulful poems speak to us as members of families, as lovers, as travelers, journeys a reader is rewarded for taking. – Carole L. Glickfeld,  Author, Swimming Toward the Ocean.
 
“Mark Osaki brings a rich poetic voice to his collection of poems in his recent book “Best Evidence”. He captures past and present moments, expressing hope through pain and personal loss. His work is subtle in nuances, yet possesses a keen clarity of vision and ultimately celebrates life itself.” – Elizabeth Hack, Artist and Editor, San Francisco Peace and Hope
 
 
About the Author

Mark S. Osaki was born in Sacramento, California. He attended the University of California, Berkeley as an Alumni Scholar and went on to do graduate work in International Relations and Security Studies.
His work has appeared in various journals and anthologies, including: The Georgia Review, Carrying the Darkness—The Poetry of the Vietnam War (Avon, Texas Tech University Press), South Carolina Review, Men of Our Time—An Anthology of Male Poetry in Contemporary America (University of Georgia Press), Breaking Silence—An Anthology of Contemporary Asian American Poets (Greenfield Review Press), Onset Review and Báo Gi?y—Vietnamese Poetry.
Mark has received awards for his poetry from the Academy of American Poets, University of California at Berkeley, San Francisco Arts Commission, Seattle Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.
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Release Blitz: Compelled By Fate by Christa Paige

27 Friday Apr 2018

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Compelled by Fate Tour Graphic
COMPELLED BY FATE
Christa Paige
Compelled by Fate
Series: Kan Asma Vampires Book 2
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Hartwood Publishing
Publication Date: April 10, 2018
Thrown together in a race against time, he has to win her heart to save her life.
Vastian is the deadliest warrior prince in the history of the Kan Asma Vampire Council. He’d willingly give his life to follow his revered leader’s orders to protect their people, no questions asked. Brutal wars have honed his skills as a ruthless killer while the beast that hides behind a human façade craves vengeance for the infiltration of his homeland. It is all a distraction from what he truly wants.
When the unthinkable happens, and tragedy follows, Vastian must reveal a secret that alters his life forever.
His blood-bound oath to the Council and their the long-held traditions forbid him to uphold the solemn vow he made to save the one female his heart desires but can never have. He can’t risk falling in love with Thalia, but he will keep her safe and alive…no matter what.
Because she will die without him.
Vastian is about to wage the biggest battle of his life. If he fails to win this war, it will mean losing her, forever.
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Compelled by Fate Teaser

Excerpt

“So why do I feel this way?” Her eyelids fluttered as her gaze settled on his face.
“You don’t want it?” He dropped his hands, crossed his trembling arms over his chest. God, what was he doing? His hunger had never gotten the best of him.
She moved, slow and cautious, sweeping her fingertips across his clenched jaw. “I shouldn’t.”
He shook his head and caught her hand, bringing it to his mouth, pressing a kiss to her knuckles. When he exhaled against her delicate skin, she shivered and keened his name.
“I’m so cold.” She shivered again and pulled her hand free to rub her arms. “Cold to the bone.”
The sweetest hint of female arousal clung to the air, teasing his senses. Inside, he rioted. His features shifted, stinging as the bones aligned into his predatory state. He fought against his inborn nature while the line between humanity and the animalistic creature in his soul vanished.
He wanted her. Craved her.
When his eyes turned, his field of vision expanding, he saw her heat signals, watched the minute changes of her pulse. She swallowed reflexively, as if nervous. Her lips parted, and little breaths tore from her chest. If he didn’t take her in his arms and touch her, warm her, taste her, he was going to lose his freaking mind.
He lifted his arms, hands up and forced himself to speak, “Let me help you then.”
She had ten seconds to march out of there and put distance between them. It was all he could manage. If she stood there any longer, he’d shove his humanity into a dark corner of his soul, muzzle the bastard and take what he wanted.
Five seconds.
Three.
She looked past his shoulder and shook her head.
One.
“Please.” When she reached for him, he roared and pushed her back against the wall. His mouth crashed onto hers, tongue spearing into her mouth. He kissed her with wild abandon, pressing her to open further, to surrender to his invasion.
Her tongue met his, dueled and touched. His thoughts splintered. Desire rammed into him, and he caught both sides of her face, angling her head to nibble on her lips.
Insistent hands traveled up his chest, shaping his muscles. She skated her fingers over his pecs and higher still to his shoulder. When her palm curved at the nape of his neck and tugged, he closed his eyes and let her pull him down to her throat.
He was lost, utterly and completely gone. With one fang pressed against the warm flesh, he pushed until it gave but withdrew immediately. He waited for the blood to drip from the puncture and followed the stream across the ridge of her collarbone and under the loose collar of her blouse. A little pool of her blood coalesced in the valley of her breasts just waiting for him to savor each heated droplet.
When she pulled the blouse down, exposing her creamy skin and the lacy bra, heat surged low between his legs. A pounding throb drew the skin tight.
“Drink,” she commanded in a rough pitch.

About Christa Paige

Christa Paige

Strict professor by day. Romance author by night. Lover of all things alpha-male twenty-four hours a day. Christa Paige writes contemporary romantic stories featuring the brave men and women in law enforcement. Christa’s expanded Kan Asma series includes alpha-male vampires fighting against all odds for their mates. Also, Christa writes sweet Regency love stories. A native SoCal girl, Christa loves, knitting, Star Wars, LOTR, Austen, and Disneyland.
Christa’s website: http://christapaige.com
Join Christa’s Kraliyet Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1683254905027615
Social media: Facebook | Pinterest | Book+Main Bites | Amazon | Twitter | Goodreads | Instagram | Bookbub

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