by Sarah | Nov 14, 2013 | Author Interview, Friday Dialogues, Guest Authors, Writing
Personal
- Can you tell us a little about yourself? I’m a mom of five, grandmother of nine, and I like to keep busy! But sometimes I’m so busy that I get very unorganized.
- What do you like to read? What’s your favorite genre? I love to read romance, either historical or contemporary.
- What’s your favorite place, real or fictional? I would love to be able to visit Robyn Carr’s Virgin River. It’s full of strong, honorable men and equally strong, resourceful women!
- What’s the best thing you’ve done in your life? I think my greatest achievement has been to raise two intelligent and talented daughters, guiding them into motivated, compassionate adults.
- What has changed for you personally since you wrote your first book? I used to wonder how I’d find story lines to write, but now I can’t find enough hours in the day to flesh out all the ideas that pop into my head!
- Where can people find you on the web? Where can they read more about your books? Readers can find out more about me and my books on my website, blog, facebook, and twitter @PatriciaKiyono
Your Novel
- What inspired you to write this particular story? I wanted to write a Christmas book and was mulling over ideas this past spring. My youngest daughter, aged twenty-six, announced she planned to quite her lucrative job as a technical writer for a very successful industrial firm and move to southern California and try her hand as a screenwriter. My husband and I don’t want her to go, but we can’t stop her from pursuing her dream. So I did the next best thing – I made her the main character in my story!
- Are the names of the characters in your novel important? Since the story is set in west Michigan, several characters as well as the names of the towns have Dutch names. That’s because immigrants from the Netherlands settled the area between Holland and Grand Rapids in the 19th century, and there are still several Dutch language churches and organizations.
- How much of yourself is hidden in the characters in the book? There is a LOT of me in Sophie – I directed many Christmas programs both as a music teacher and as a mom helping out in my kids’ Sunday School. I also toyed with the idea of trying to “make it big” in the big city, but decided I’m better suited for a quiet family life in the ‘burbs.
- You got the call – your novel is being made into a TV series or movie – who’s in your dream cast? I think Amanda Seyfried would make a good Sophie, and I’d love to see Jake Gyllenhaal as Mitch.
Writing
- Are you a pantser or a plotter? I guess I’m more of a plotter. When I try to write without a plan I tend to go off in too many unrelated directions. I need to have a clear idea of where the story is headed and an idea of how the characters will get there. Sometimes the characters surprise me, but for the most part I stay with my outline.
- Are there any occupational hazards to being an author? I suppose being sedentary is the worst hazard for me. In order to write I have to research, and then I have to brainstorm, research some more, and then I have to actually do the writing. All of this involves sitting. I’m not an active person anyway, so my doctor is continually telling me to get up and move.
- Where do you get your ideas? I start with the conflict – I know that’s not the route most authors take! I take a problem –external one, like the production of a church Christmas pageant. Then I create characters who are affected by that problem, and give them each an internal conflict, such as Mitch’s insecurity as a single parent and Sophie’s desire to “make it big”. Finding conflicts is not difficult – I just watch the news!
- Have you written any other books? I’ve published seven other romances. Three are historicals (The Samurai’s Garden, The Patridge and the Peartree, and Love’s Refrain) and four are contemporary (The Legacy, Aegean Intrigue, The Christmas Phoenix, and The Calico Heart, co-authored with Stephanie Michels).
Quick Questions
- Sing in the rain or dance in the streets? Neither. I’m totally an indoors kid.
- Pen or pencil? Pencil. I make too many mistakes.
- Summer or Winter? Summer!
- Movies or TV? TV. I can’t sit still long enough to watch a movie!
- Theater or DVD? Theater!
- Rural or Urban? Rural for living, Urban for entertainment. I guess the ‘burbs are a good fit.
- Facial hair or clean shaven? I’m not picky about that, as long as the facial hair is neat and trimmed.
- Marvel or DC? DC
- Cowboy or Bad Boy? Cowboy.
- Sunrise or Sunset? Sunrise
- Fall leaves or Spring flowers? Fall leaves
- Peanut butter or jelly? Peanut butter
- Spender or Saver? Saver
*~*~*~*
| [amazon_link id=”B00GGNA44C” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] | BN |
Blurb:
Mitch Carson is tired of the big city. In his former life, he’d been a news photographer in Chicago, where the dangers are endless. But now, he just wants to settle down in this quiet town with his daughter, Angie. Here, his only fear is losing his daughter to his scheming mother-in-law.
Sophie Gardner wants to be a screenwriter. She’s ready to leave small town Zutphen, Michigan and go to Hollywood. With a theater degree under her belt, she’s busy writing scripts while helping out her sister Joanie, who’s bedridden with a difficult pregnancy. Unfortunately, Joanie has somehow coerced Sophie into directing the Christmas pageant at Zutphen Community Church.
When Sophie and Mitch meet, the attraction is instant and mutual. But each wants what the other is trying to get away from. Can they deny their feelings and pursue their dreams? Or will the holiday prove to them that their true wishes might not be what they’d thought?
Bio:
In a previous life, Patricia Kiyono taught elementary school students by day and changed diapers at night. Now she teaches college students part time and changes diapers only when she’s taking care of grandkids. She loves to do anything that doesn’t involve exercise. Right now her favorite activities, other than writing, include scrapbooking, sewing, and making music. She and her husband live in southwest Michigan, near their five children and nine grandchildren.
by Sarah | Nov 8, 2013 | Friday Dialogues, Guest Authors, Writing
November marks the release of my third novel and the conclusion of my Chances trilogy, Last Chance. When I started writing Second Chance five years ago, a trilogy was the farthest thing from my mind. Moira and Paul’s story was originally part of that first novel. But as Lindsay and Brian’s adventure evolved, I realized there wasn’t room in the book to do Moira and Paul justice, not to mention the beauty of the Lake Tahoe winter. And since Delaney and Mike’s Chance Encounter was dancing relentlessly in my head, I put Moira and Paul on hold. Now it’s their turn for Happily Ever After. I hope you’re as excited to see them again as I am! What better way to conclude the Chances trilogy than to come full circle.
In Second Chance, star-crossed lovers Lindsay Foster and Brian Rembrandt get a second chance at love amid the brilliant blue waters of Lake Tahoe. In Chance Encounter, Delaney Richards and Mike Savoy’s quest for love takes them from Tahoe’s fawn-colored shores to the serpentine streets of San Francisco. But the heat in Last Chance comes not from the blazing summer sun and rugged, white-hot sand, but from the prurient, torrid fervor between lifelong friends Moira Brody and Paul Webster. And even the single-digit temperatures of the Lake Tahoe winter are no match for their long-bridled desire.
| [amazon_link id=”B00GD0JPF2″ target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] |
Blurb:
Amid the blinding blue sky and snow-capped peaks of the Lake Tahoe winter, Paul Webster and Moira Brody will see one another through new eyes. But not everybody is on their side. Paul has some worthy competition and Moira’s survival instincts have kicked into high gear. Love and truth will be put to the ultimate test. Moira will have to take a leap of faith and Paul will have to take the ultimate risk–again. And sometimes discovering that what you’ve been searching for is right in front of you is more terrifying than not finding it at all. Their adventure will bring them full circle. But they’ll be plenty of collateral damage along the way.
Reader Alert! Moira Brody has been saving herself for Paul Webster without even knowing it. She is more than willing and eager to enroll in the Paul Webster School of love making. And she doesn’t want to be treated with kid gloves…
To My Readers: The veil between love and friendship can sometimes grow thin. And when both of you start to look at each other through different eyes, it all but disappears. What better way to conclude the Chances trilogy than to come full circle? Come with me as Moira Brody and Paul Webster take a chance at love. And discover it was worth waiting for.
About the Author: Martha O’Sullivan has loved reading romance novels for as long as she can remember. So much so she would often continue the story in her head long after the last chapter was read! Writing her own novels is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream for this stay-at-home mom. She lives her own happy ending in Florida with her husband and two daughters.
*~*
Excerpt (sexy) from Last Chance
Paul laid Moira down on the rumpled bed, and standing above her, got out of his shirt and pants. She’d seen him shirtless countless times before. But it was as if she was seeing him through different eyes. His pecs were firm but not overbearing; his abs ripped but not enough to make him barrel-chested; his arms defined but not herculean. And every bit of that thoroughbred-like body was lowering itself on top of her.
Along with something else.
And it was throbbing against her thigh through form-fitting briefs.
Arrows of fear and excitement shot through her and she wondered if he could hear her heart beating outside her chest. He framed her head with his arms. “I’ve wanted you for so long,” he effused, “without even knowing it.”
Moira gulped. “Then take me.”
Her newfound initiative seemed to surprise, then intrigue him and began to indulge her.
She welcomed his mouth, his tongue, his bite. She loved the way he brushed his fingers across her cheeks, combed his hands through her hair and down the nape of her neck before cocooning her in his arms. He kissed her with his whole body, feasting on her throat and shoulders before scooting back and finding his way to the hem of her dress.
“I’ll go easy. I promise.”
“I’m not going to break.”
His sultry eyes fired with desire. “Be careful what you wish for.”
Lifting her arms above her head, she silently yielded to him.
Paul slipped his hands under the silk and began shimmying the dress up her thighs. He stopped appraisingly at her hips, then continued up her torso to the swell of her breasts. He tasted them impalpably, then slipped the dress over her shoulders.
He extended his arms in invitation and she raised herself on her knees to meet him. Cupping the back of her neck, he brought her to him. She surrendered to his mouth, his hands, and soon she knew, as a chord struck deep inside her, to his burgeoning erection.
Not a word passed between them, but her eyes granted him the permission he so desperately sought. His impatient hands unhooked the strapless bra with disturbing deft. He’d done this before, she reminded herself.
A lot.
His fingertips grazed her chest and throat as if looking for a place to start. He settled on her breasts, making concentric circles on her nipples with his thumbs before easing her back against the upholstered headboard.
His shaft was nudging at her as he began where he’d left off.
But with his teeth this time.
Nibble by tortuous nibble, he tugged, snagged, bit until her nipples stood on point. A lightning bolt of lust flashed in her bundle of nerves below as he licked his way down to her bellybutton. He paused to circle it with his tongue, then returned to her mouth, sampling her all the while.
His hands continued south to the strings resting below her hipbones. He waggled the panties down, then jettisoned them with a nimble kick.
“You are so beautiful,” he venerated, finding her. “Everywhere. I want to touch every inch of you.”
She reached for him more clumsily than she liked. He was as stiff as a board and globules of need were oozing through the black cotton. “I want to touch you first,” she ventured. “Show me what to do.”
He made quick work of all that separated them and lying next to her, placed her hand on his pulsating cock.
“You’ll know.”
She gripped him, and going on instinct, began to stroke. His breath instantly caught in his throat, encouraging her to quicken the pace. Head falling back in praise, he mumbled something indistinct as his body tensed and penis curved into the crook of her hand.
His moans filled the heavy air as she began to milk him with long, lazy titillations. She wondered if he could grow any more engorged without bursting.
The tip of him was seeping thick, heavy drops and she likened it to the hedonic wicking between her legs. She had never felt that kind of sweeping heat before. And the flame was spreading at an alarming rate. Her wetness was chasing the rush, only to ignite it again.
Just then he reached for her and felt it for himself.
“Oh God,” he droned, eyes rolling back in his head. “You’re dripping.” In one smooth move, he rolled on top of her. His erection rested on her damp nest of curls and he skirted his lips across hers. “I need to be inside you now.”
Bracing herself, she answered the prayer in his voice by spreading her thighs in wholehearted invitation.
She felt his hand between her legs, then his erection find her. She winced a little when the head of his manhood began inching into her center.
“It’s gonna hurt a little. I’ll go slow.”
He was right; it did hurt. But she bit back the pain and arched beneath him.
Working her into the gap between his thighs, he slid his hands up her back and pushed her breasts against his chest. His glistening eyes found hers. “I love you, Moira.”
She felt her heart swell along with his member. “I love you, too. So incredibly much.”
Interlacing their fingers and plumbing his elbows, he began to move inside her. “Oh, baby,” he cried out in a low, throaty growl. “You’re so wet, so warm, so tight.”
She wondered if he could also feel the fever scalding her from top to bottom. Or the barrier of resistance shattering in its wake. Her hips began to sway in sync with his. Each thrust brought less sting and more urgency.
Rising to his knees, he positioned himself between her legs, then began to rock above her.
He was tapping the very essence of her now, teasing her with climax. She felt aglow, like all the energy in her body had dovetailed into a cluster of ecstasy between her legs.
He broke pace only to grab her by the butt cheeks and draw her flush to him. “Put your legs up on my back,” he pleaded more than bid.
She obliged and Paul impelled himself deeper into her. And just as the ecstasy overtook her, he roared her name and claimed her.
*~*
Martha O’Sullivan has loved reading romance novels for as long as she can remember. So much so that she would continue the story in her head long after the last chapter was read. Writing her own novels is the realization of a lifelong dream for this stay-at-home mom. A native Chicagoan, she lives her own happy ending in Tampa with her husband and two daughters.
Martha is a member of Romance Writers of America and Tampa Area Romance Authors. She is a graduate of Illinois State University where she wrote for the school newspaper and was a proud member of Zeta Tau Alpha. Formerly, she was an Acquisitions Editor at Macmillan Computer Publishing. She writes contemporary and erotic romances with traditional couples and happy endings. She is the author of the Chances trilogy available now from Red Sage Publishing. Her current work-in-progress in a Christmas novel set in Florida.
My love affair with California began at the tender age of fifteen and continues today, three decades later. So it should come as no surprise that the book of my heart, which somehow turned into a trilogy, is set there.
Maybe it was the indescribable thrill of a Midwestern girl seeing the ocean for the first time (we have a lake in Chicago, but it’s not the same). Or the sight of unapologetically bronzed coeds with movie-star teeth driving silver metallic convertibles and playing volleyball in the sand. Perhaps the towering palm trees swaying against the impossibly blue sky? But that was in Southern Cal; my Chances trilogy takes place in Lake Tahoe and San Francisco, hundreds of miles north.
I was an unassuming only child of the 70’s, growing up in a place where a short, precious summer turned into a long, cold winter seemingly overnight. What else was I to do but read (thanks, Carolyn Keene)?
In high school, I often opted for the city bus because it stopped in front of the library. Just a branch, mind you, but they had loads of paperback books. And no matter the inventory du jour, I was drawn to the revolving wire rack of romance novels. Harlequin Presents, Danielle Steel and later on, Nora Roberts.
The books took me to places all over the world where effortlessly beautiful, wonderfully flawed heroines were swept off their feet by dynamic, irresistible heroes. I preferred the books to the afternoon soaps because I could imagine the characters in my mind’s eye. And if I found the ending disappointing or abrupt, I would simply continue the story in my head.
Writing such ideas down, however, took another thirty years.
In the interim, I went to college and met my own prince charming. And he took me to San Francisco on our honeymoon.
And, as cliché as it sounds, that’s where I left my heart. Well, part of it anyway. Because eight years and two babies later, he took me to Lake Tahoe for the very first time.
And my frisson with California moved even farther north.
I hope my books will take you there. And you’ll leave a little piece of yours behind too.
by Sarah | Oct 24, 2013 | Friday Dialogues, Guest Authors, Writing
Last February, I went back to my home town. This is the first time I returned home as a published author. My family and friends always knew I wrote poems and short stories but not many of them took it seriously. It was never something I talked about much before with them.
Even when I returned home, I never brought up writing. I guess I felt if they wanted to know more about it, they would ask me.
Some did ask me, mainly the same question. “I heard you are an author now. How is your book coming along?”
You would think as a writer, I would be able to answer the simple question but nothing came to mind. Ok so that is not completely true. The problem is my actual answer, is not exactly something people want to hear or understand. If they knew I could finish writing a novel in a month, if I wanted, they would be shocked and most likely think I was bragging. They want the romanticized answer. “I have spent years perfecting, my novel. I am still working on completing the final pieces.” People want to know it is hard because not everyone can imagine writing a complete book.
Occasionally, I would give them the truth, “The book is going great and is now finished; actually I now have five titles out and am working on three more projects.” I found when I said this most people became quiet and ended our conversation.
More discoveries…
I also learned most of my friends and family believed being an Author was more profound than being a Writer. I believed this as well until; I saw a post on Facebook that said “Writers Write”. Funny one quote picture on social media could change someone’s outlook on their dream.
A writer is always writing and working on their craft. An author is someone who has written past tense and sadly stops with one novel. It takes time and preparation and innovation and training to get past the myths society puts on writing novels. Most writers and readers never get past the myths and thus remain authors instead of writers.
What are the Differences?
A Writer writes.
An Author has written.
Simple, right? Nope. Writers are Authors most of the time but Authors rarely are Writers. Confused, yet?
Here is an example…
I am the Author of Whispers in the Storm, Blood Myth, and Sekhmet’s Revenge. I will always be an author no matter if I write again or not. Those works are out there for the world to read, buy, and review. However, if I never write again I am no longer a writer. I must continue to write to be a writer.
Writers are always focused on their current project or the next novel.
Writers are focused on what is next, the future.
Authors are focused on the past, what they have already written.
Today it is very easy to get published with small presses and indie publishing. This is an amazing time to be an Author and a Writer.
An Author strives to finish their work. Their “masterpiece”. Their “baby.” Once it is completed, the novel has been through editors, beta readers, and finally has the perfect cover.
Now, it is time for the Author to make a choice. They can go with the traditional and more accepted route, sending it to an agent or publisher or they can join the new era of indie publishing. The choice is up to the author; neither is wrong but must make sense for the individual.
Fast forward…
Choice has been made, the author then goes straight to making sure their time and work is not wasted, by promoting their finished work.
Twitter, Facebook, Blogs, and on and on the promotional monster begins. Promotion is all the Author thinks about now. They must get their work out to the masses, after all it is their “baby”, it deserves the time of promoting and nurturing to make it successful.
So now the Writer becomes the Author, all of their writing time becomes promoting time.
A Different Choice…
Finished! Yes! Off to editor and beta readers, now it is time for the next project.
Edits are back, cover is finished, and Writer does a blurb, gets the book on buying sites but continues to write the new story. Book is indie published quickly and Writer goes back to work on next project, finishing it and getting it proofed while he starts the next project.
Writers after the initial announcement of the book and posting on websites do not promote like Authors. There simply is no time in a Writer’s mind to do such things. The next novel is their only focus. Writing time is more valuable than promotion of an old book.
Writers are inclined to believe their own writing is their best promotion, so they remain a Writer.
A simple break down of things I noticed in my own world…
Writers are people who write the next story.
Authors are people who promote their last story.
Writers receive feedback from simply writing and finishing stories.
Authors receive feedback from sales, promotions, and reviews.
In the new age of indie publishing Writers are going to be told there are ways they must handle their career to be successful. When in reality a Writer, only has to write, unless they want to become solely an Author.
We all must decide why we write.
Do you write to be published, to become famous, or accepted by the industry? If this is why you write then you are an Author.
I am not saying praise and acceptance from peers isn’t a great feeling. It is an amazing feeling but if everyone hated your work would you continue to write? That is the question. If you would not continue then you are an Author. You become a has been… Someone who has simply written past tense.
On the other hand do you write because worlds develop in your mind and you must get them out? Do you love the excitement you get of telling stories? Will you write if everyone hates every word you type? Then you are most likely a Writer.
Can you be both?
YES! The most successful in the field are both but never let the promoting beast take your writing time. The best promotion for any Author or Writer is their next book.
*~*
| [amazon_link id=”B00C6Q0XGW” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] |
The Art of Safkhet Presents – Blood Myth
(The Myth Series)
Zakah Sange was born into a world of dark magick, always living in the shadows of his father, the Raka King. He was dangerously sexy and enigmatic; he used power and control to shape himself into a hard and cunning man. Zakah became a warrior, a weapon and the master of his own violence lurking within.
Sorina Ruzicka was the great granddaughter of the evil god Akhekh. She was born into a legacy of magickal gifts that she wanted no part of. After years touring as a blues singer she returned home where she only wanted the seclusion of the mountains. A chance meeting with the mysterious club owner forced Sorina into the battle of her life.
Can a willful witch, accept the controlling nature of a demon who demands submission? Trusts will be tested, lines will be crossed and a fate neither of them expected will be played out.
Author Bio Author Website
Stacy (SAM) was born in West Virginia but now finds herself living in Texas. She has loved writing since the first grade when she completed her first book, The Land without Rules. Her mother will tell you it was a brilliant book.
Throughout her school years she was in journalism and has been an avid reader of all literature. She has always craved the feeling of discovering an author’s world for the first time. Now she devotes her time to creating her own worlds. Stacy focuses mainly on paranormal romance and poetry. She loves creating dominant male characters and headstrong females for her books.
Stacy now finds herself on a new journey and finally has taken the leap to go after her dreams. She recently finished a poetry book, Whispers in the Dark with two fellow authors and finished her first novel Blood Myth in her Myth Series.
Excerpt
Outside her cottage, the wind rose and whirled fiendishly. Rain pelted at her windows. Sorina wrapped her arms around her up drawn knees, resting her head on them. She felt his emotions. She sensed his need and what he wanted her to understand, but she didn’t understand.
“Sorina.” Zakah made sure his voice was warm, sensual, caressing, velvety, and soothing. “Don’t try to understand, my little rabbit.” He could feel her anguish even though she tried to hide it with her stubborn chin and defiant eyes.
A shadow flickered from a candle. Her eyes followed the shadow. She gasped up at his tall, dark, well-muscled frame which appeared out of nowhere. Sorina stammered, looking up at him towering over her. “What are you doing here?”
She looked like a scared rabbit. He never felt regret or pity, but to know he was the cause of her fear broke his heart. Zakah couldn’t stop himself; he did something he had never done in all his long years. He wanted to give comfort, take away her fears. Zakah gathered her into his arms, imprisoning her against his hard chest. “Breathe, Sorina. It will help.”
She pushed against the wall of his chest. “Let go of me. I am not a child who needs to be cradled or spanked.” She emphasized the last word.
Zakah ignored her struggle to pull away from him. He held her close to his chest, his hand stroking over her back slowly. He buried her face in the wealth of her luxurious hair, breathing in the sweet scent of citrus.
Sorina found the strength to pull back from his embrace. “I saw you. I felt you when you were using that rod on that woman. You were imagining she was me.” Her breath caught in her throat when he threaded his fingers through her hair. Zakah gripped her scalp in his strong hands, yanking her head back and the look in his eyes seared her to the bones.
He lowered his head, his mouth inches from her plump lips, so that she could feel the warmth of his breath on her skin. “Yes, I did imagine she was you. I wanted her to be you. I needed her to be you.”
Sorina was silent. She started to tremble in his arms. He knew his words were beginning to sink in. Zakah took in the sad shadows and fear lingering in her large, golden green eyes.
Her heart was pounding. “I want you to leave.” She pushed at the wall of his chest.
He merely tightened his hold on her. Zakah could not hide the bit of enjoyment he was getting from her struggle. “You do not want me to go, Sorina.”
“Yes, I want you to go, Zakah.” His smug look of amusement infuriated her, making her work to keep her voice under control.
“You are safe with me, Sorina. I would not allow anyone or anything to harm you.”
She swallowed nervously, whispering defiantly, “Just you.”
by Sarah | Oct 10, 2013 | Friday Dialogues, Guest Authors, Guest Post, Writing
Here I am – a writer struggling to find a way to balance life, reality and dreams.
I know I can’t speak for others but I know for me, this seems like an impossible task some days. There is just too many things going on in life that something has to give. It’s finding that item that you can do without. That movie you don’t HAVE to see so you can stay home for two hours in quiet and write out a scene. It’s getting up early, churning out a few hundred words then hitting the streets and working on your day job.
I worry that I miss out on part of life to stay home and follow that dream I feel burning deep inside. Then when I do take moments to set the dream aside and experience life, I feel guilty that I’m letting myself down. It is a constant struggle I feel deep inside.
That’s why I have a rule, every three months I take one month off. That way, I know, at least for a quarter of the year I am guilt free in spending time basking in the sun, driving around town, chilling at the movies or simply cuddling on the couch reading a book.
I think that’s what is the hardest part about writing – it isn’t creating the characters or worlds, its balancing the world you live in. As a writer you have a few…Reality – your everyday life with family and friends, Your world when you’re writing – the world that blocks everything out and puts you into what I call a zone, nothing but extreme focus and concentration. And then the worlds you create in your mind and then deliver onto paper. These are the worlds that occupy your thoughts, your dreams and what sometimes you mistake for actual reality.
I’m hoping one day I’ll be able to quit the day job so I can focus on just my writing for eight hours and then live my life in the reality that everyone else exists in.
One day – that dream will come true.
*~*
The Art of Safkhet Presents – The Blood Series
| [amazon_link id=”B00DQC4Y0Q” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] |
Blood Purple
In a world we think we know, live other races entirely hidden from the mortal perspective. Creatures of legend, of fable and myth, their very history and nature have allowed them to walk side by side with humans since time immemorial. They are warriors, they are hunters, and they are Algula. Vampire. And in their own midst, a battle is brewing for supremacy, for dominance, that can and will affect all around them. Old hatred never dies and vengeance is a fiery sword that cuts a bloody swath.
Will be Available in Print and E-book formats
| [amazon_link id=”B00DK82R7I” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] | BN | Smashwords |
Blood Yellow
The lines are drawn, and Zayn and Nikole must face each other in a battle of forgiveness and power; each attempting to right their wrongs, each battling their own inner demons.
Haydar and Leigh prepare for war, rounding their men and setting into motion courses that cannot be undone.
The tales will fall in line as the four of them come face to face with each other, and they will watch loved ones perish.
When the dust settles and dawn breaks, who’s going to be left standing and who will be missing? Will Nikole forgive Zayn for his betrayal? Will Leigh and Haydar overcome their differences? Will Adara say yes?
Blood Yellow…Because the stories only just begun….
Will be Available in Print and E-book Formats
Excerpt:
Dominic pulled up to the house, looking up at the tall wall surrounding the mansion. The red brick cast a shadow over the car, making it unseen from the side of the road, the perfect place to hide. He opened the door and the cool evening breeze hit him hard. The smell of the mountains captivated him. Getting out, he started to walk along the wall, analyzing his options of entry. His leg still throbbed, the warm blood running down it. His mind couldn’t stop thinking about his omm. Had that really been her? He knew he was worthless as an ebn’, and he killed her after all. If he hadn’t been born, she would still be alive, and his abb wouldn’t have such hatred for him.
He heard something off in the distance, pausing to listen closely while inclining his head towards the tree line. He saw two animals a few feet away, a doe and her fawn. Lucky fucking animal to have an omm who tended to him, he thought. No one understood what it was like, killing their own omm. The failure of knowing you were letting everyone down didn’t matter the age, you still fucking failed. He walked for half a mile looking for a weakness in the wall, a place to set up his attack. He saw a foot hold up ahead. It looked like an old ladder was attached to the wall. Dominic ran his hand over the indentations on the wall, gripping his hands in them. Looking back over his shoulder at the deer, he let out a sigh. “Fuck you, Omm. You left me to rot at the hand of my abb. Now it’s time to fucking end this war.”
He started to scale the wall, right hand, left foot, left hand, right foot, over and over. Reaching the top he peered over the rim. He saw the lights shining on the grounds, the dogs walking the grass patrolling for intruders. He pulled himself up, supporting his weight on the wall.
“Dominic, this isn’t you, stop this. This is your abb’s, fight not yours.” Dominic hissed his fangs out toward the voice.
“What do you want now? I thought I told you to leave me the fuck alone, like you have my whole fucking life.” He pulled his lower half up onto the wall, looking down at the dogs walking in the grass. “You never cared about me. Why are you trying to stop me?”
Her translucent form grazed his hand then went up to his cheek, cupping it. He could feel the coolness from her form; his body yearned for love, for compassion. How could he take love and tenderness from someone who was the first to betray him?
“Dominic, I love you, never doubt that. My love for you started the moment you were conceived. I had your akh and okht for your abb but you, you were for me, someone I could love and claim as mine. You were all I wanted.”
“LIAR! All you do is lie!”
He felt the tears in his eyes form and then blinked as they started to roll down his cheek. He was such a coward, worthless and weak. Look at him, crying on a wall to his omm. What kind of man does this shit? He looked back to the mother doe, she was cleaning her fawn. Lucky son of a bitch. “Why are you just now showing up? Why can’t you just answer me?”
Sarah started to shake her head at him, trying to make him see. “Dominic, I am here to help you save yourself. I don’t want the only child I loved to die not knowing a parent’s love. Let me help you; let me show you what you mean to me.”
Dominic shook his head no with a flurry of anger. “It’s too late for me.”
*~*
Author Bio
Ashley is married and lives in Houston with her husband Tony. They have two dogs, Toto and Doogie. They have been together for over 8 and a 1/2 years and he brings her more joy than she could ever imagine as a child. She loves to read and has been hooked on the romance genre ever since her lifelong best friend Laura gave her “Ashes to Ashes’ by Tami Hoag to read when they were younger.
Ashley finds her strength through her family, especially her parents. They always support her in life; they push her to strive for greatness. There once was a motto that Ashley heard in her youth through her Taekwondo life ‘Reach for the Stars’ and that is what Ashley has always done. It was through her upbringing that the values Ashley has and displays come from. With her parents always cheering her on in life she was able to grow up having faith in herself and her ability to conquer the world.
Author Information: Ashley Nemer Website Facebook Twitter
by Sarah | Oct 3, 2013 | Author Interview, Friday Dialogues, Guest Authors, Writing
- Can you tell us a little about yourself?
What does it take to be a bestselling author? Determination, skill, talent, luck or taking a risk with a venture into a totally new genre. For me it was a little of some and a lot of the others.
In 2008 when I got two books published I thought it was due to skill; little did I know it was more luck than anything. Over the next three years I wrote, submitted, got rejected. I then did what I tell everyone who asks; I wrote some more. I didn’t give up.
More on a dare than anything I tried my hand at a regency, one of the most difficult genres because of the rules, which I might add I broke almost every one. Within two days of its release the book was on a best seller list and stayed there for two months.
Turns out it is all of the aforementioned.
After two failed marriages, one from divorce while with the other died unexpectedly I decided upon retirement to move. That opportunity came in September 2012 when I migrated to Texas.
For me, as a multipublished author, it was one of the best things I’ve done to date. Now, every day I can write, creating stories to take my readers to places they can only dream about.
I’m also a member of the Published Authors Network (PAN) by the Romance Writers of America (RWA).
- What’s the best thing you’ve done in your life?
Move to Texas for the weather and here I’ve gotten a lot more writing done than back in Connecticut
- Describe yourself in 5 words.
Different, unique, determined, committed, obsessed. Oh and a little crazy.
- Do you have a saying or motto for your life and/or as a writer?
Darkness is the absence of love
Where you can find me
Links to my books
Your Novel
- What about your book might pique the reader’s interest?
The heroine, Lady Sophia Gardner The Countess of Modbury, won’t stop until she learns who killed her first husband. How she goes about ferreting out the villains will shock and amaze you.
- What inspired you to write this particular story?
I’m not sure where the inspiration came from for this book but it ended up being the first in a series.
- Are the names of the characters in your novel important?
I’ve never been one to choose character names based on something about them. If I find a name I love and it fits then I’ll use it.
Writing
- Are you a pantser or a plotter?
Died in the wool panster. I’ve tried plotting but never stayed with the story line.
- How (or when) do you decide that you are finished writing a story?
When the main characters tell me to stop. I’ve learned that’s the best way to keep them happy so they’ll make an appearance in a sequel.
- What are you working on now?
I’m working on several different books, yes at the same time; Lady Jean and The Messenger, Book 3 in the Countess for the Crown series, The Duke’s Bride, the first in The Radcliffe series and finally, The Viscount and The Governess. What’s so interesting about this one is, besides being free you get a new episode every Wednesday.
- Have you written any other books?
I also write A Jessica Sales Novel series which is contemporary romantic suspense.
Quick Questions
- Sing in the rain or dance in the streets? Sing in the rain
- Pen or pencil? Fountain pen
- Summer or Winter? Yes
- Movies or TV? TV
- Theater or DVD? DVD
- Rural or Urban? Rural
- Facial hair or clean shaven? Clean shaven
- Marvel or DC? Marvel
- Cowboy or Bad Boy? Yes
- Sunrise or Sunset? Sunset
- Fall leaves or Spring flowers? Leaves
- Peanut butter or jelly? Yes
- Spender or Saver? Trying to be a saver
*~*~*~*
Blurb-
When someone tries to murder Lady Sophia Gardner, Countess of Modbury, James becomes her appointed protector. Little does she realize he’s not who he says he is.
After finding a cryptic message they depart for London where Lady Sophia learns James is the Marquess of Sussex. Angered, at first, with his deceit she falls in love with him wondering if the feelings are returned.
As they search for the clues to reveal who was selling secrets to the French which could have turned the tide at Waterloo James is confronted by his parents. Turning away from them so he to support the woman he loves another attempt is made on her life.
To ferret out the traitors they slip away to a tiny cottage where James learns there’s more to Lady Sophia than meets the eye. Sneaking into London they learn who the traitors are and bring them to justice.
by Sarah | Sep 25, 2013 | Friday Dialogues, Guest Authors, Writing
Personal
- Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I’m a native of Pittsburgh, PA who now lives in Orange County, California with my husband. I’ve always love books and have been a librarian most of my adult life, except for about six years as a travel agent.
- What do you like to read? What’s your favorite genre?
I read a little bit of everything but horror, but anything historical is my favorite. But I’ll read anything, even the back of the proverbial cereal box, if nothing else is available.
- What’s your favorite place, real or fictional? Why?
I love the Monterey Peninsula south of San Francisco. It’s such a beautiful spot and it just has a nice feel to it. I’d live there if I could afford to, but it’s very expensive.
- Do you have a saying or motto for your life and/or as a writer?
Yes. In the journey of life, love is the sweetest reward.
- Where can people find you on the web? Where can they read more about your books?
My website is http://www.lyndilamont.com and there’s a link to my blog on the website menu. I also hang out at Facebook, occasionally at Goodreads, and I tweet @LyndiLamont.
Your Novel
- What is your book about?
It’s a historical fantasy that matches a sexy pirate captain with wayward witch.
- What inspired you to write this particular story?
It was originally part of a collection of stories and each one had to have a mysterious island. Since a mystical element was required, it seemed appropriate to have a character who is a witch.
- What was your favorite part or chapter, and why?
My favorite part is Heather’s rhyming spells. I thought they would be hard to write, but they came really easily and were quite fun to do. They should come with a warning, though: Do not try this at home. Results in unexpected consequences.
Fun (Crazy, odd questions just for fun)
- Have you ever gone out in public in mis-matched shoes, or with your shirt on backward, and when you realized it just said ‘eh, screw it’?
LOL, I have gone out in public wearing different colored socks, usually one black, one blue. That’s what comes of being visually challenged. By the time I notice, it’s usually too late, so “screw it”.
- Are you skilled with fake accents?
Don’t know about skilled, but I love to do accents! I spent a year in Austin and learned how to Talk Texas. We used to sit around the student lounge and see who could lay on the thickest Southern drawl. A guy from East Texas had the rest of us beat all hollow.
Quick Questions
- Summer or Winter? Winter, but to be fair I live in So. Calif. where it never gets really cold.
- Movies or TV? TV
- Theater or DVD? DVD
- Rural or Urban? Urban. I’ve always been a city kid.
- Cowboy or Bad Boy? I have to choose?
- Sunrise or Sunset? Sunset
- Fall leaves or Spring flowers? Fall leaves, in part because we rarely see them here and I still miss the autumn foliage I grew up loving.
- Peanut butter or jelly? Peanut butter, though both would be nice.
- Spender or Saver? Saver.
*~*~*~*
| [amazon_link id=”B00ES2GJ9W” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] | B&N | Smashwords | Kobo | Apple |
Heather Parnell is traveling from England to her home in Jamaica with her new husband, Roger, a man she detests. She performs a banishing spell with unintended consequences. When their ship is attacked by pirates, Roger is killed. Heather, disguised as a boy, joins the pirate crew.
Pirate captain Adam Langworth suspects there is something odd about the new lad. When he discovers she is a woman, she begs him to keep her secret, a violation of the ships’ articles. When her identity is discovered, Adam and Heather find themselves marooned on a deserted island with nothing to do for the rest of their lives but make love.
Disclaimer: This is a 12,000 word steamy romantic short story, not a full-length novel. Previously published by Amber Quill Press. Contains a sexy pirate, a naughty witch, spellcasting and lovemaking.
Excerpt:
Adam stood, walked around the desk and reached for her hands. “What an extraordinary tale.”
She laughed, a little hysterically. “It is, is it not? And now even more so since I have been captured by pirates.”
“Most well-bred ladies would have fainted by now. I applaud your courage and resourcefulness.”
Heather stood to face him, her hand still in his. “I am made of sterner stuff than most ladies.”
“I see that. There is, perhaps, one solution to this dilemma. I could claim you as my share-and-a-half from the Sea Rover.” He let go of her hands and pulled her to him, one arm around her waist. His other hand grabbed hold of her hair and tugged her head back. She looked up into his face and saw that his eyes were green flecked with gold. They glittered with desire.
Her hands were pressed to his warm chest and her stomach against his groin. She felt his hard shaft and a strange warmth crept over her body. It spoke of anticipation and need. What was wrong with her? She should be repelled and disgusted by his touch. But she was not. Giving her head a quick shake, she forced herself to think logically.
“Your share-and-a-half? What does that mean?”
“When a ship is captured, the quartermaster catalogs the goods on board, then it is divided evenly among the crew. The captain receives a share-and-a-half. You would be mine.”
He is the one. The words rang through her mind.
“What would you do with me?” she asked, her voice suddenly husky.
“I know what I’d like to do,” he said, as his mouth descended.
*~*
Author bio:
Lyndi Lamont is the racy alter ego of romance author Linda McLaughlin. Writing sexy stories gives her a license to be naughty, at least between the pages of her books! She has written several full-length novels plus numerous short stories and novellas, ranging from historical to futuristic. She believes that love is unending and universal, and enjoys transporting her readers into a different world where her characters learn that, in the journey of life, love is the sweetest reward.
You can find her online at http://www.lyndilamont.com
Blog: Lyndi’s Love Notes: http://www.lyndilamont.com/blog
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LyndiLamont
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LyndiLamont
GoodReads: http://www.goodreads.com/LyndiLamont
| [amazon_link id=”B00GGNA44C” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] | BN |
Bio:
