Monthly Archives: September 2016

Sep 28 2016

Review and Blog Tour – Awakening Kiss by Sharon Kay

Title: Awakening Kiss

Series: Watcher’s Kiss #4

Author: Sharon Kay

Genre: Adult, PNR Romance

Published: September 13, 2016

Review_Purple
☕☕☕☕☕
Five cups of awesomeness!!!

Sharon Kay has done it again.  Which isn’t surprising, as I’ve yet to read a book of hers that hasn’t completely enthralled me.  Since this book starts in Enza De Luca’s coffee shop, I’m doubly enchanted, because um, COFFEE.  I love that that she is part – owner, and bakes.  Two of my favorite things.

You barely blink and the action begins.  Having left work late, Enza is on her way to catch the bus on the not-so-safe streets of Chicago.  But she runs into trouble instead.  Trying to escape some no-good thugs she catches the attention of our hero, Rhys, possibly a couple of dark elves, and straight into a portal.  One a human wouldn’t have been able to see.  Rhys is compelled to help Enza, once he confirms she isn’t working with the enemy.

The seamless way Kay weaves present day Chicago with the unknown supernatural element that thrives in the city is amazing.  Her character are not only believable, but likeable.  Well most of them, there are a few, you will just want to knock on their butts.  She brings the whole cast and crew to life in such a way, that you feel like you know them, and are vested in their future.

This is a fast paced, won’t-want-to-put-it-down read.  Don’t open the book, until you can devote a few hours uninterrupted hours.  I recommend it to anyone who likes paranormal romances, hot sexy good guy demons, and awesome books.

This book made it onto my favorite book list, and Sharon Kay firmly remains on my “Go-To” and “Top Ten” Author’s list.

** I was given this book in exchange for an unbiased review.**

As part of the Watchers, Rhys is used to all types of combat, pursuit, and interrogation. But hacking and tracking through hidden online channels is where he excels. Shattering codes and sneaking around firewalls comes as easily to him as a swordfight or street brawl with a predatory enemy.

Cooking up sweet new pastry creations is Enza’s dream job. Kitchen appliances never fail her, unlike every computer she’s ever touched. Her fledging baking business is doing well, yet as streetlights flicker with her changing mood, she can’t shake the feeling that she’s different from everyone else. But life as a regular Chicago girl is all she’s ever known…until one hot summer night.

Violence threatens both of them when her world collides with Rhys’s in a dark city alley. As a raw and formidable ability awakens in her mind, she becomes targeted by the last person she expects. Drawn to his sweet baker with a pull he can’t deny, Rhys vows to protect her—no matter the consequences that will change their lives forever.
Awakening Kiss Excerpt © Sharon Kay 2016After a few minutes, they reached a split that made two branches. “It’s up ahead on the left,” Rhys murmured, and pulled her to the right hand tunnel.“Then why are we—”He extinguished his fire and crowded her against the cool concrete wall. “Remember what I said about scents?”

Enza’s breath hitched and her heartrate sped up. “Yes,” she whispered, breathy. “Touch?”

He leaned down to nuzzle her neck, and in the complete blackness her pulse beat a wild rhythm clear to his eyes. His hands moved to her hips. “Yes, bella. We walk in there, it needs to be crystal clear that we’re together, or the attention won’t stop.”

“Attention?” She laid her hands on his chest like she had before.

“Touches, kisses, getting too close. Arms around us, invitations for sex…hell, you’ll probably see it happening to others in there.” He inhaled her sweet scent, wishing their best lead on information didn’t lead them into a group of sex-seeking creatures. “But no one touches you or they’ll be sorry.” Slowly, he skimmed one hand up her side, to the bare skin of her bicep.

She shivered, and a trail of goosebumps stood out on her arm. He repeated the process on her other side, and a tiny moan escaped her lips. He framed her face in his hands, caressing her cheeks with his thumbs. For tonight, she was his. Maybe they were just playing roles, but damn if it was the most natural thing he’d ever had to play at.

And maybe that thought should have made him pause, but any hesitation was derailed by a new, intense, protective desire to show those wolves she was off limits.

“Mmm.” She closed her eyes and leaned forward, curling her fingers into his T-shirt.

“I want your neck, baby.” He stroked one finger down from her ear to her throat, eliciting another shiver from her.

Her head dropped to the side, giving him full access to her dewy, tantalizing skin. He brushed his lips across her collarbone and sucked at the spot where her shoulder started, inhaling her scent like it was oxygen.

Her arms went up and linked behind his neck. She wiggled close, rubbing her body against him. He groaned at her soft curves, remembering exactly how firm she felt in his hands. Blood surged to his cock and he dotted kisses along her throat, lingering below her ear. A spot he already knew she liked.

She whimpered and raked her fingernails through his hair. Tingles shot from her nails to his dick, making him flex into her. He switched to the other side of her jawline, kissing and nibbling along her skin, ensuring anyone who dared get that close would smell him on her.

“Rhys…” she moaned, lifting her head and scratching him again.

Without hesitation he slid a hand into her hair and gripped. Then forcing slowness, if only not to maul her, he held her still while he lowered his mouth to hers.

Sharon Kay writes award-winning fiction and can never get enough reading time. She loves winter and black coffee, and is endlessly inspired to write kick-ass heroines and the men strong enough to capture their hearts. Sharon lives in the Chicago area with her husband and son, and one weekend the idea for her Lash Watchers and tough leading ladies formed in her head, refusing to stay quiet until she put pen to paper. Her characters tend to keep her up at night, as they banter, fall in love, and slay endless varieties of power-hungry demons.

Sign up for Sharon’s newsletter to keep up with her paranormal world, see early cover reveals and be entered in periodic giveaways.
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Sep 26 2016

The Mortal One: Book 1 by Shannon Bell

the-mortal-one
The Mortal One: a Paranormal Vampire Romance (The Mortal One Series Book 1)
by Shannon Bell
✩✩✩✩

Captivating beginning to a four book series.

This book was a smooth read, that kept my interest from beginning to end. The characters were interesting, even if some of them didn’t make the best choices. I mean, “What idiot goes sight seeing at night in a busy city, alone, on foot”. But then, I know a few females that would, and have done so. So I would have to say that Dylan is very real, just not the brightest decision maker. But she does have good taste in men, or vampires I should say. Nico is not only hot, he’s considerate, and goes against the norm because of his feelings for Dylan. To the point, that he gets permission from his sovereign to let her live. Yep, he was initially supposed to “take care of her”, truth-seeker that she is. But that isn’t the only unorthodox thing about their relationship. Then there is Olivier, the French vampire who has taken a shine to Dylan. Olivier and Nico both want Dylan, and will go to great lengths to claim her. I look forward to finding out more about Olivier in book two.

I enjoyed this book, and I’m happy to say all four books are out, so you can continue on to the next book immediately. Which you will want to do, since the author teases you with more to come, and more questions to be answered, even while satisfactory bringing an end to the first book. I recommend this book for anyone who likes vampires, paranormal romance, or fantasy.

SYNOPSIS

Hot vampires are surrounding Dylan and it’s not easy for her to be the mortal one. Dylan decides to go on a vacation of a lifetime in order to find herself. She begins in Romania, contemplating the existence of vampires and quickly realizes that she was wrong. Once she ends up in Florence, however, she is confronted with an immortal, Nico. She must be marked if she wants to live because she learned the truth of vampires. Nico catches her and her heart by surprise. The Mortal One is a whirlwind romance amidst vampire politics. Dylan must be marked for her safety, yet she is trying to be claimed by another vampire, thus making her time in Florence very complicated for her. She tests the bounds of her relationship with a vampire and tries to create a life for herself as the mortal one. The main setting of the book is Florence, where Dylan is in love with the history of the city…as well as a vampire.

AMAZON           B&N           GOODREADS

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Shannon Bell holds a BA in Creative Writing at the University of Central Florida. She resides in Riverview, FL with her husband and daughter. As a lover of vampire fiction, her first book, “The Mortal One” was something that had to be created.

Shannon attends a variety of different writer’s conferences throughout the state annually, where she hones her writing and editing skills. Writing is her life, her passion and her hobby. To say the least, She loves to write. When not writing, she usually has a camera or book in her hand. That, or she’s out with the fam!

Find Shannon here -> Amazon    Website    Facebook    Twitter    Goodreads

INDIE BOOKFEST – WIN A READER’S TICKET

Shannon Bell and I will both be attending #IBF2016 next month.  Please make sure to come by and say “Hi” if you attend.  There are still tickets available for those who haven’t purchased theirs.  Also, if I get enough comments, I’ll hold a drawing for a “Reader’s Ticket”.  So don’t be shy in letting me know if you’re interested.   You can check it out here.

Shannon Bell is a #IBF2016 Featured Author.

Indie Bookfest

ORLANDO, FLORIDA – OCTOBER 7, 8 & 9 – 2016
INDIE BOOKFEST 2016

  • 4th Annual Author/Reader Event     Indie Bookfest LoogOrlando/Altamonte Springs, FL
  • October 7, 8 & 9 – 2016

 

  • FREE BOOK SIGNING
  • October 8th, 2016
  • 3:00-6:00 PM

 

 

 

Sep 22 2016

Review – Spell Checked by C.G. Powell

 

spell-checked

Spell Checked (No Uncertain Logic #1)
by C.G. Powell
✩✩✩✩

I really enjoyed the premise of this book, and the unique view of witches, vampires, and aliens. I found myself turning the pages to see what happened next. How would the Beck, Mae, Helen triangle work? How could Mae bond with Beck if she were a witch? As some questions were answered more problems or puzzles presented themselves, which kept me hooked.

I liked the characters, yet had a problem with the ease in which the secondary characters viewed their sexual relations with one of the characters. But that is my views, and I just couldn’t understand how there was no signs of jealousy. But then Mae didn’t either, so I guess I wasn’t alone.

I wasn’t a fan of the writing style at times. The way the two main characters would think “their thoughts”. It just threw me off. But not enough to keep me from enjoying the book. I also had no sense of being in Ireland. If the characters had not mentioned it a few time, I would have guessed the English countryside, or America. But that’s me, and sometimes I tend to nitpick.

Overall it was a fun, interesting read, and I would recommend it to others. I know I will be reading more of the books in this series to find out what happens next.

SYNOPSIS

Broken relationships were a constant in Mae’s life, causing her to swear off men forever. Unwittingly lured to Ireland, Mae finds herself knee-deep in a hidden world she never knew existed and head over heels for the very man that tricked her to coming there. His deception is complicated by his own feelings for the one person that holds the key to merging the ancient races that once ruled the ancient word.

Mae finds herself in an underground world of witches, and vampires, which are half-breeds of aliens long gone. She learns about her own unique parentage and powers, which she must study in order to control, before they consume her.

Beck and Helen’s love for one another spans across a millennium, her human soul reincarnated to match Beck’s own immortality. This time however the body she occupies is of a being that cannot be eclipsed by her return. After waiting two hundred years, Beck finds himself tormented by Helen’s inability to return and his growing love for her new host.

Some of the underworld creatures welcome her with open arms as a savior, while others seek to destroy the abomination they believe her to be. Will the knowledge of her existence cause a race war when the true power of her blood is discovered? Or will love become her ultimate downfall?

This book is 80K words 305 pages long in print.

Free at time of posting.

AMAZON          B&N          KOBO

BIO

As a teen C.G. Powell was selected as a member of her school’s newspaper staff. After her first article the editor decided the darkroom was a more suitable place for her skills…or lack of. Since then, she has traveled everywhere—thanks to her innate curiosity about the world and the Navy. In her life time, she has learned: aviation electronics, CCNA networking, Gemology and how to get bloodstains out of the carpet (you never know when you might need that). But her latest, all-consuming, endeavor is storytelling. When asked why, her response was “I live to challenge myself; I like to be pushed outside of my comfort zone and writing is one of those things that pushes my boundaries. Besides it was the only way to share all of the crap bouncing around in my head!” C.G. Powell lives in Virginia with her husband and children. When she is not writing, you might find her watching hot guys jog past her front window, ordering the cabana boy to fix her another drink or abusing the local authorities…but that’s just hearsay.

C.G. Powell and I will both be attending #IBF2016 next month.  Please make sure to come by and say “Hi” if you attend.  There are still tickets available for those who haven’t purchased theirs.  Also, if I get enough comments, I’ll hold a drawing for a “Reader’s Ticket”.  So don’t be shy in letting me know if you’re interested.   You can check it out here.

C.G. Powell is a #IBF2016 Featured Author.

Indie Bookfest

ORLANDO, FLORIDA – OCTOBER 7, 8 & 9 – 2016
INDIE BOOKFEST 2016

  • 4th Annual Author/Reader Event     Indie Bookfest LoogOrlando/Altamonte Springs, FL
  • October 7, 8 & 9 – 2016
  • FREE BOOK SIGNING
  • October 8th, 2016
  • 3:00-6:00 PM
Sep 20 2016

Secrets of Desire by L.K. Shaw Release Blitz

 

Secrets of Desire is NOW AVAILABLE!

 

 

When secrets surface…

 
Bridget Carter seems to have the perfect life. She’s happily single and has a career she loves as a fashion designer at a local boutique. She enjoys playing at Club Eden and bounces from one Dominant to another. She’s not looking for love, even though she’s more than intrigued by Connor Black. When a secret from Bridget’s past surfaces, Bridget and Connor are forced to work together to protect an innocent. 


The battle begins…

 
Scarred inside and out, Connor Black fights to protect those who can’t protect themselves. He also hides behind a mask of confidence. Battling against his own insecurities, he secretly envies the boldness Bridget exudes. He watches her with a look of longing he thinks he’s kept hidden. And when Bridget comes to him for help, he realizes he can no longer keep his desire secret. But an enemy is ready to strike and Connor must battle his inner demons to protect the people he is coming to love.   

 

 



Here’s what readers are saying: 



“It’s hotter than hell”



“You totally gave me all the feels”



“It’s good, like really good. … I cried because…this was able to pull the emotions out.“


 

 

LK Shaw Author Bio:

LK Shaw is a physical therapist assistant by day and writer/social media addict by night. She resides in South Carolina with her high maintenance beagle mix dog, Miss P, who should probably just have her own Instagram account. An avid reader since childhood, she became hooked on historical romance novels in high school. It wasn’t until within the last seven or eight years she tried her hand at contemporary romances. Some of her favorite historical romance authors include Christi Caldwell, Courtney Milan, Mary Balogh, and Tessa Dare. Some of her favorite contemporary romance authors include Julia Sykes, Ella Dominguez, Skye Callahan, and Meghan March.



She initially began writing in November 2015 as part of National Novel Writing Month, when, suddenly, the story became something more than just writing on a whim. The vision for the story snowballed and, before she knew it, she began taking steps toward publishing. Each book in her first series feature Romantic Suspense and BDSM combined. 



LK loves to interact with readers. You can follow her on any of her social media: 



Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LKShawAuthor
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/LKShaw_Author
Amazon Author page: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01EZ0X4DA
Blogger: http://www.lkshawauthor.blogspot.com

 
Sep 19 2016

Review – Secrets of a Wolf by Kelly Abell

secrets-of-a-wolfSecrets of a Wolf (Guardians of Spirit Rock Book 1)

by Kelly Abell
✩✩✩✩1/2

For all the suspense, mystery, and bad things happening in the town of Spirit Rock. I found the book to be light-hearted. Possibly because while all the horrid things are happening, the characters survive without any traumatic scars. Yes, there are moments of freight, but there are also moments of hilarity, and the characters are fairly positive attitude. They’re fun. Cameron is sexy, and Daphne really gets herself into some interesting predicaments.

The only downside, or things that bothered me with the story, were minor and didn’t keep me from thoroughly enjoying the book. Although I do wonder at the main culprits motives. They didn’t make sense to me, nor that the results expected, would be the ones obtained. Needless-to-say, we can put it down to the poacher being a bit crazy, and leave it at that. Plus I was never sure what happened to the second culprit. At least not for sure. Who knows, that might have been on purpose. A villain for another day.

Overall the book was very well written and keep me happily reading. The characters were great, and I look forward to reading about the other brothers and their women. It should be a very exciting series.

SYNOPSIS

A tragic event ruins Daphne Valentine’s career as a K-9 cop and department veterinarian in Seattle. Devastated, she escapes to Spirit Rock, South Dakota, to start over as the vet for an animal wildlife rescue park. When she arrives, nothing goes quite as planned—especially when she meets her new boss for the first time and she’s almost stark naked. Not the greatest first impression…or is it?

A confirmed bachelor, Cameron Gray is shocked at his instant attraction to his new employee. He soon learns she carries quite a bit of extra baggage, but even so, his desire to possess the sexy vet ignites him with a need he and his wolf can’t ignore. But all is not what it seems…. What exactly drove Daphne to leave her successful career and move to Seattle?

When dangerous poachers bring the two together in the line of duty, Daphne discovers Cameron’s secret, forcing her to question every decision she’s made since arriving in Spirit Rock. Will the tender new love they’ve found be enough to hold them together or drive them apart forever?

Join the Gray brothers in Spirit Rock, South Dakota. Gifted with the power to shift into their own unique spirit animal, they have been bestowed with the enormous responsibility of watching over their ancestral canyon. Their strength and conviction will be tested…as will the depth and breadth of their heart and soul.

AMAZON          B&N          KOBO          

Kelly Abell and I will both be attending #IBF2016 next month.  Please make sure to come by and say “Hi” if you attend.  There are still tickets available for those who haven’t purchased theirs.  Also, if I get enough comments, I’ll hold a drawing for a “Reader’s Ticket”.  So don’t be shy in letting me know if you’re interested.   You can check it out here.

Kelly Abell is a #IBF2016 Featured Author.

Indie Bookfest

ORLANDO, FLORIDA – OCTOBER 7, 8 & 9 – 2016
INDIE BOOKFEST 2016

  • 4th Annual Author/Reader Event     Indie Bookfest LoogOrlando/Altamonte Springs, FL
  • October 7, 8 & 9 – 2016
  • FREE BOOK SIGNING
  • October 8th, 2016
  • 3:00-6:00 PM

Sep 18 2016

Ink: A Mermaid Romance by Melanie Karsak

 

ink-a-mermaid-romance
Ink: A Mermaid Romance
by Melanie Karsak
✩✩✩✩✩

Ink: A romantic mermaid adventure. She kicks butt when needed.

This is the first book I’ve read by this author. It most definitely won’t be the last. I was surprised by the ability the author had to create a full, well balanced story in a novella. The world building was astounding, and the pace and tension great. I couldn’t put it down. If I had a complaint, I would say it was the lack of depth to the romance between the two main characters, Ink and Hal. Mainly I would have liked to see it more developed. A longer version of the book would have allowed this. (Hint, hint to author). But all in all, I loved it.

From page one, Ice shows us her strong character, and confident sense of self. She can make the hard decisions, yet doesn’t allow the hardships in her life to make her less than a loving, giving person. She just isn’t going to stand for injustice. She does what she has to, no matter that her heart isn’t in it. Duty comes first. But when things start to fall apart, or things start exploding, or the shooting starts. She doesn’t sit around weeping, she takes action.

I would love to see more of this series. I loved or hated (if they deserved it) the characters, and I can’t stop myself from laughing every time I think of a gator shifter named Hal. Great book!

SYNOPSIS

A mermaid princess destined to wed a handsome king…

It sounds like a fairy tale, but the reality is far murkier.

Ink, Princess of the Florida Atlantic mers, is slated to wed the ancient enemy of her tribe, the King of the Gulfs. After years of war that led to countless mer deaths, as well as the genocide of aquatic shapeshifters and the freshwater mers of Florida, Ink’s marriage will bring lasting peace.

Or so it seems.

Mere hours before she’s supposed to leave the ocean for her customary year as a drywalker, Ink meets Hal, an alligator shifter who warns her that a storm is brewing. There is malicious intent behind Ink’s marriage—and worse, meeting Hal has also caused a storm to rage in Ink’s heart. Nevertheless, loyal to her tribe, Ink will put aside her feelings and journey to Miami to marry the decadent King Manx.

Ink soon learns that her only hope of surviving the crashing force swelling around her is to tap into a power deep inside—a forbidden power that might destroy them all.

Available on Amazon – Free with a Kindle Unlimited Subscription

Melanie Karsak and I will both be attending #IBF2016 next month.  Please make sure to come by and say “Hi” if you attend.  There are still tickets available for those who haven’t purchased theirs.  Also, if I get enough comments, I’ll hold a drawing for a “Reader’s Ticket”.  So don’t be shy in letting me know if you’re interested.   You can check it out here.

Melanie Karsak is a #IBF2016 Featured Author.

Indie Bookfest

ORLANDO, FLORIDA – OCTOBER 7, 8 & 9 – 2016
INDIE BOOKFEST 2016

  • 4th Annual Author/Reader Event     Indie Bookfest LoogOrlando/Altamonte Springs, FL
  • October 7, 8 & 9 – 2016
  • FREE BOOK SIGNING
  • October 8th, 2016
  • 3:00-6:00 PM

 

Sep 18 2016

Review – Dark Hope by HD Smith

dark-hope
Dark Hope by HD Smith
by HD Smith
✩✩✩✩

Dark Hope is an engrossing book, with incredible world building. I couldn’t put it down, but found myself confused at times by the sheer amount of things happening. I kept reading because I needed to know how Claire got stuck working as the Devil’s assistant and what her real place and purpose there was.

The book is very fast paced, with enough tension, that you won’t want to put it down for a second. I look forward to reading the next book in the series to see what happens. While most things were tied up at the end. You are still left with the need to find out what happens in the next chapter of Claire’s life, or unlife.

As for Dental. There are always the exceptions, but for the most part. No one gets Dental!

I recommend this to other Urban Fantasy lovers, but not “romance only” readers. This is an adventure, one hell of an adventure, but definitely not a love story.

SYNOPSIS

After five years of working for the Devil, Claire Cooper believes she lives an otherwise normal life. Until she finds herself in jeopardy for a murder she did not commit. Desperate to save her life and soul, she enters Purgatory, but runs afoul of the Devil’s sister, Pagan Queen Mab. Mab has her own agenda and uses Claire to get even with the Devil. Claire learns each ruler is in a race to discover “the girl” in the prophecy to fix time. As Claire peels away clues to the real killer, she realizes she must outwit the Devil’s children or end up a prisoner in Purgatory forever.

Available on Amazon – Free with Kindle Unlimited Subscription

HD Smith and I will both be attending #IBF2016 next month.  Please make sure to come by and say “Hi” if you attend.  There are still tickets available for those who haven’t purchased theirs.  Also, if I get enough comments, I’ll hold a drawing for a “Reader’s Ticket”.  So don’t be shy in letting me know if you’re interested.   You can check it out here.

HD Smith is a #IBF2016 Featured Author.

Indie Bookfest

ORLANDO, FLORIDA – OCTOBER 7, 8 & 9 – 2016
INDIE BOOKFEST 2016

  • 4th Annual Author/Reader Event     Indie Bookfest LoogOrlando/Altamonte Springs, FL
  • October 7, 8 & 9 – 2016
  • FREE BOOK SIGNING
  • October 8th, 2016
  • 3:00-6:00 PM
Sep 18 2016

Review – The Last One by Tawdra Kandle

the-last-one
The Last One (The One Trilogy Bk 1)
by Tawdra Kandle
✩✩✩✩ 1/2

A romance with both heart and humor.

It took me a few chapters to warm up to both of the main characters in this book.  The characters not the writing.  The writing kept me reading.  Great pace, and just enough tension to keep you turning the pages.  No it was Sam.  He was being a bit of a dweeb.  Oh sure, he rescued the girls when they had car trouble, causing them to be stranded by the side of a country road, in an area they were unfamiliar.  Meaghan being passed out only vaguely remembered that he was nice.  But Sam was so nice the next time they met.  She returned to town.  This time completely sober, and aware, to pick up her car that had broken down.  When she goes to thank him for his help, he rips into her for being irresponsible.  Not that he should care, it’s not like they are going to meet again.  Meaghan returns to school in Savannah hurt and pissed off.  She’s not sure why she lets how he reacted bother her so much, it not like they are going to see each other again, Right?

Wrong.  Meaghan gets placed not only in Sam’s hometown as a Art teacher for the summer, but in his very house.  Needless-to-say, sparks fly.  They both fight their attraction for each other.  Meaghan doesn’t do commitment, and Sam thinks he’s too old for her, plus he thinks she’s a city girl, and could never be happy out on a farm.  Even a farm with no real farm animals.  Apparently dogs and cats don’t count.

Their journey is laughter, tears, ups and downs, and a bit of soul searching.  Will they be able to overcome the obstacles in their way.  And if so, how, when, and where?  It’s not always the end point that matters but the journey along the way.  

In this journey, I came to understand both Sam and Meaghan more, and to fall for a few of the supporting characters as well.  Don’t try to read this book without at least a couple of hankies at hand.  But do read it.  It’s worth the frustration at Sam and Meaghan’s behavior at the beginning.  They are still young yet, and a worthwhile romance is rarely easy.  All in all a very enjoyable read, that I can easily recommend to others.

SYNOPSIS

+++This is a New Adult Romance, intended for readers over 18. It contains scenes for mature readers.+++

Meghan Hawthorne is restless. The last year has been a roller coaster: her widowed mother just married a long-time family friend. Her younger brother unexpectedly became a father and a husband. Everyone’s life is changing. . .except for hers. As she begins her final summer of college, Meghan’s looking for excitement and maybe a little romance. Nothing serious; this girl just wants to have fun.

But the only man for Meghan turns out to be the last one she expects.

Sam Reynolds doesn’t need excitement, and he doesn’t want romance. Fun is out of the question. He’s been the steady, responsible one since his parents were killed, and serious is his way of life.

When Sam rescues Meghan alongside a dark Georgia backroad, she falls hard for his deep brown eyes and slow drawl. But making him see her as more than just a party girl won’t be easy. Sam’s tempted by the fiery young artist, even as he realizes that giving into his feelings will mean radical change. . .maybe more than he can handle.

Nobody ever said love was simple.

AMAZON               B&N               GOODREADS               ARe

Free on most platforms

 

Tawdra Kandle and I will both be attending #IBF2016 next month.  Please make sure to come by and say “Hi” if you attend.  There are still tickets available for those who haven’t purchased theirs.  Also, if I get enough comments, I’ll hold a drawing for a “Reader’s Ticket”.  So don’t be shy in letting me know if you’re interested.   You can check it out here.

Tawdra Kandle is a #IBF2016 Featured Author.

Indie Bookfest

ORLANDO, FLORIDA – OCTOBER 7, 8 & 9 – 2016
INDIE BOOKFEST 2016

  • 4th Annual Author/Reader Event     Indie Bookfest LoogOrlando/Altamonte Springs, FL
  • October 7, 8 & 9 – 2016
  • FREE BOOK SIGNING
  • October 8th, 2016
  • 3:00-6:00 PM

 

Sep 17 2016

Review – Gracie’s Touch by S.E. Smith

gracies-touch
Gracie’s Touch (Zion Warriors Book 1)
By S. E. Smith
✩✩✩✩

BOOK BUY LINKS             

While the author was clearly channeling Independance Day, she quickly steered past it, and only used it as a jumping off point.  I am so glad I kept reading, because I would have been deprived an an outstanding adventure.  

Gracie Jones shows great spirit and determination, while still retaining a few insecurities to make her real.  And Kordon is a drool worthy mix of hard on the outside, yet gooey on the inside.  At least for one miniscule human.

This was a well paced story, whose characters kept me reading well into the night.  Other than the beginning, I found the story original and interesting.  I look forward to reading more in this series.

I highly recommend this book and series.  I know I will be purchasing the next one as soon as possible.  

SYNOPSIS

New York Times and USA TODAY Bestselling author of Science Fiction, Urban Fantasy, and Paranormal Romance brings another action, adventure, and suspense-filled story to transport readers out of this world.

Gracie Jones was little more than a child when the Earth was invaded by an alien species. Escaping into the subway tunnels of New York City, she hid in fear of being captured. Discovered by four men who became her protectors, she fought alongside them and they became known as the Freedom Five. At seventeen, she made a decision that turned the tide on the war between Earth and the Alluthans but in exchange she gave up all that she knew.

Kordon Jefe is a Zion Warrior and commanding officer in charge of the Confederation of Planets military. When an unknown species begins attacking some of their outer settlements, he is assigned to discover who they are and stop them…at any cost.

Gracie unknowingly finds herself stranded millions of light years and hundreds of years in the future in a distant galaxy on an undeveloped moon. When an old enemy threatens once more, she does not hesitant to use her knowledge to try to stop them once again. Only this time, it is not just Earth she will be saving but the Confederation itself.

When their two worlds are thrown together, Kordon is unsure what to do with the strange, delicate creature that fights and behaves unlike anything he has ever encountered before. One thing he does know, he plans to keep her.

SE Smith and I will both be attending #IBF2016 next month.  Please make sure to come by and say “Hi” if you attend.  There are still tickets available for those who haven’t purchased theirs.  Also, if I get enough comments I’ll hold a drawing for a “Reader’s Ticket”.  So don’t be shy in letting me know if you’re interested.   You can check it out here.

Indie Bookfest

ORLANDO, FLORIDA – OCTOBER 7, 8 & 9 – 2016
INDIE BOOKFEST 2016

  • 4th Annual Author/Reader Event     Indie Bookfest LoogOrlando/Altamonte Springs, FL
  • October 7, 8 & 9 – 2016
  • FREE BOOK SIGNING
  • October 8th, 2016
  • 3:00-6:00 PM

 

Sep 16 2016

⛱___ Crafty Authors at the Beach ___⛱ With CMC ‘Featured Author’ Terry Spear

 

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28250597 - two beautiful women sitting at the cafe near the beachCopyright: mikhaylovaelen / 123RF Stock Photo

Welcome to “Crafty Authors Coffee Time with Tamye”.  I’m super excited about our special guest today. She is the second Coastal Magic Convention 2017 “Featured Author” to join me for chit-chat, coffee, and crafts by the beach.

I met Terry Spear “in person” at the Coastal Magic Convention this past February, in Daytona Beach, but we had already met online back in June of 2014 when she joined my Books, Coffee, and Crafts Facebook group.  In fact, she’s one of our charter members.  From there we became friends, and not only did I discover that she writes wonderful books, but she makes the most adorable teddy bears.  I have one of her woody bears, and my daughter and granddaughter have a custom set that Terry worked hard to meet my somewhat challenging specifications. I knew she could do it.  And she did, magnificently. So when I was asked which of CMC2017’s featured authors I wanted to host on this segment, Terry’s was one of the first to come to mind.  

Since I don’t expect Terry for a few more minutes, let me tell you a bit about her.  

terry-spear-right1Terry Spear is a USA Today Bestselling author who writes urban fantasy and Highland medieval romance: hot wolves, jaguar shifters, medieval Highlanders and lots more. She also pens young adult paranormal romance. She has over fifty paranormal books to her name, earned Publisher’s Weekly Best Books of the Year, and has been featured in The International Wolf Magazine, Woman’s World and BGS Book Review Magazine. She creates award-winning teddy bears in the heart of Texas and gardens. She retired from USAR after rappelling, mountain climbing, learning water survival, qualifying with a number of firearms, survived the obstacle courses, leadership reaction courses and confidences courses – and knows if she can do it, her characters can overcome any obstacle she puts in their path.

Terry’s Mantra
“Giving new meaning to the term alpha male where fantasy is reality.”

Here are a few places you can connect with Terry Spear:
Website      Goodreads     Facebook      Twitter      Amazon     Wilde & Woolly Bears  

Terry Spear is one of my go-to authors. I never pass up one of her books in the store. If you haven’t had the pleasure of reading her books, then you definately want to grab one soon. You won’t be disappointed.  

(Oh, look here comes Terry now, and she’s brought the boys.  Tanner and Max, two of the cutest little pooches I’ve seen.)  I love getting her blog posts, or checking out her facebook page, because chances are high that one or both will be featured in a picture or video.

With a hug for Terry, and a belly rub for the boys, we settle down to enjoy our drinks (lavender tea for Terry, and coffee with cream for me), a nice chat, and a few fun surprises for everyone.  So make sure you read till the end or you might miss something really fun.

 

ProfilePicThreeThanks for joining me and my readers today, Terry. I’m so thrilled you’ll be attending Coastal Magic as a “Featured Author” this coming February. I had a wonderful time last year. I was so nervous it being my first convention, but everyone was so nice and friendly. I couldn’t have picked a better event to test the waters. How many years have you attended?

TerrySpearProfile50x50This will be my third. I love it! Love the area and the hotel, the people, Jennifer. It’s just all great fun.

ProfilePicThreeWhat is one of your favorite things about Coastal Magic?

TerrySpearProfile50x50Location, location, location!

ProfilePicThreeIf you could put a word in the event coordinators ear, what would you ask she do, or do differently?

TerrySpearProfile50x50I wouldn’t. I love everything she does.

ProfilePicThreeWhat tip would you give to people new to a reader/author conference?  (Me, I would suggest they bring a tote bag or something to have everyone sign.  Besides the bag they get to put all their swag in.)

TerrySpearProfile50x50That’s a great idea! Dress comfortably! The year before last, it was nice weather. But this past year it was cold. So be prepared for the changing weather. Otherwise, just enjoy!  

What I love so much about this conference is that it’s primarily paranormal. Which is primarily what I write and I love connecting with readers and authors of the paranormal! 

ProfilePicThreeYou and me both, Terry. My favorite genre is paranormal. Although I also love Urban Fantasy, and romance in almost any sub-genre. As long as you give me a happy ending, and a well written book, I’m happy.

 

Come join us at the Coastal Magic Convention, this February in Daytona Beach. It’s going to be an absolute blast. #CMCon2017

Don’t miss your chance to meet over 50 fabulous urban fantasy, paranormal, and romance authors at Coastal Magic next February! This super casual book-lover weekend happens on Daytona Beach, and gives everyone the chance to hang out with fellow readers and amazing storytellers.

REGISTRATION is now open! If you haven’t been to Coastal Magic yet, you’re missing out on a lot of fun.  Be sure to keep up with all things Coastal Magic, by following it via your own personal social media drug of choice: Facebook |Twitter | Google+ | Pinterest | RSVP at the Facebook Event.

 

ProfilePicThreeNow that we’ve established that Coastal Magic is the place to be this coming February, can you tell everyone a little about the book you’ll be releasing next month, Terry?

TerrySpearProfile50x50I’d be happy to, Tamye. A Very Jaguar Christmas will release on October 4, 2016. But it’s available for pre-order now. It’s the fifth book in my Heart of the Jaguar series, and if you haven’t guessed by the title, it’s a Christmas book.

A Very Jaguar Christmas by Terry SpearA Very Jaguar Christmas
Book 5 of 5 in Heart of the Jaguar 

There are all kinds of surprises under the mistletoe!

As a protector of all jaguar-kind, Guardian agent Demetria MacFarlane isn’t surprised to get a call near Christmas-but when she’s sent to protect a cub whose species she didn’t even know existed, her holiday season gets complicated. And it doesn’t help that her partner is a distraction of the hottest kind.

Hotshot JAG agent Everett Anderson can handle dangerous poachers and wildlife traffickers, no problem…but kids? Everett fears he’ll be stuck cub-sitting under the Christmas tree, but working with one sexy Guardian she-cat may be the best present he’s ever gotten.
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Praise for A Silver Wolf Christmas:
“Another awesome paranormal romance from Terry Spear.” –Night Owl Reviews, 4 ½ Stars, Reviewer Top Pick!

Praise for Jaguar Pride:
“The unexpected surprises included in this installment of the Heart of the Jaguar series are enough to make readers’ jaws drop… Spear’s latest is chilling and thrilling from start to finish – and fans of bad-ass cats will revel in each minute, clawing their way to the finish.” – RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars

Amazon          B&N          iBooks          Kobo          BAM

 

ProfilePicThreeThat sounds awesome, Terry. I can’t wait to read A Very Jaguar Christmas. But then again. I love all your books.  I was thrilled when I ran across Billionaire in Wolf’s Clothing at the store. Then to find out you were sending me a copy of a recent interview with Rafe Denali.  I was in heaven.  Thanks!  You are my hero.

billionaireinwolfsclothingBillionaire in Wolf’s Clothing
July 5, 2016

First in a BRAND-NEW SERIES about filthy rich werewolves and the women who are more than their match.

Billionaire werewolf Rafe Denali always gets what he wants, and he always trusts his gut. When sexy she-wolf Jade Ashton nearly drowns outside his beach house, he knows better than to bring her into his life. But there’s something about the fierce wolf that triggers his most primal instincts…and having seen her, he knows she will be his.

Even if she’s hiding a dark secret that could get them killed…

An Interview with Billionaire Rafe Denali

Reporter: You probably are asked all kinds of questions about how you made your money, who you’re dating—

Rafe: I have a wife, Jade, so that’s no longer an issue.

Reporter: And that’s just why I had some other questions in mind. I’ve seen your son and he’s the spitting image of you. Because you are so rich, he can have anything he wants in the world. Is there one thing he prizes more than anything else?

Rafe: Family. As it is for all of us.

Reporter: Right, but he’s a kid. So what…well, does he take with him places, or sleep with?

Rafe: I’d have to say a blue rainbow teddy bear. He calls him Buddy. Because that’s what he is. His buddy. He also has a green and blue dinosaur named Dino, but Buddy has to go with him everywhere.

Reporter: All right then. So teddy bears and dinosaurs aren’t out of fashion yet. Getting back to you then, what was your favorite toy when you were growing up?

Rafe raised a brow.

Reporter: Aw, come now. Did you have a favorite blanket, stuffed toy, ball?

Rafe: We made do with nature’s playground. Camped, hiked, swam, fished. We didn’t have traditional toys.

Reporter: I see. You didn’t come from a wealthy background. You made the money all on your own. Which always intrigues people like me. Gives us hope that some of us can make it too. What do you think helped shape you from the time you were little to mold you into the man you are today, a member of the billionaire’s club?

Rafe: Did you ever have a dream of creating something bigger than yourself? Of crafting a better mousetrap? Of creating something original that would fill the needs of many? To love what you do because it brings joy to others?

Reporter: Okay, you’re getting into the heart and soul of the story. How you take crumbling businesses and turn them into parks and livable, workable space for people who would never be able to afford such a thing. I admire you for that. It must be your upbringing that brought you to that. Now, as to your wife, she crafts original creations also. Lingerie and specialty children’s clothes. As to the lingerie, does she model it for you before she tries to market it?

Rafe only gave him a wolfish smile back. He was done with the interview because he needed to approve some more of the silky creations that were all his lovely mate’s idea. Though he’d had his input a time or too.

Reporter: I’d say that answers all of my questions. And tell the little guy to give Buddy a hug for me. All little boys should have a teddy bear to love.

And a family too, Rafe knew.

Amazon          B&N          iBooks          Tantor Audiobooks

 

Creating a Teddy Bear by Terry Spear

 

Creating a teddy bear, and any other craft, is a labor of love. I’ve been making these for over thirty years! They’ve been featured in magazines and newspapers and found homes all over the world!
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First, I cut out the fur. And then, I sew the parts on my machine.

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Next, I find a good movie to watch, and take my bear parts into the living room to begin the stuffing process. Max and Tanner, my Havanese, also join me for every step of the process. In the sewing room, and now in the living room. It’s a family project you see.

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There are quite a few steps from stuffing arms and legs, and then attaching them with joints. Then working on the head–putting in eyes, stuffing, and attaching it to the body.

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You can see the bears for one order all laid out on my couch while I worked on them like an assembly line. Though I skip around sometimes. So you see the bears made and partially dressed in Steampunk costumes. The sherbet bears are partially completed, the one slumped over without his head yet.

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I included another picture to show the finished hats for several Steampunk bears also, which is a major process from cutting, to sewing, to decorating (the really fun part!)

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After the bears are all sewn up, I add the ears and the noses.

 

And then, I bring out my organized box of embroidery thread and begin to add names on their paws.

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Last come the bows, tags, and the cards. 🙂

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And there you have a bear. The large sherbet bear shows the fur in the beginning, to the finished bear.

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A creation made with love to last a lifetime.

ProfilePicThreeTerry, I can’t thank you enough for showing us how you make your adorable teddy bears.  I know I will treasure mine forever and ever.

For anyone interested.  Terry takes orders.  Check out her website.
Wilde & Woolly Bears http://www.celticbears.com

 

FREE BOOKS FREE BOOKS FREE BOOKS

Now for one last treat.  Is anyone interested in some free books?  No contest.  No giveaway, or rafflecopter for you to enter.  All you have to do is go to the participating eTailer of your choice and download any/or all of the five books that are currently free for a limited time.  This is the first time they have ever been free, and they won’t be for long.

 

terryspearfreebooks

heart-of-the-wolfHeart of the Wolf
Book 1 in Terry Spear’s Heart of the Wolf series

Their forbidden love may get them both killed.

Bella is a red werewolf, sole survivor of the fire that killed her entire pack.

Devlyn is a beta male werewolf in a pack of grays.

Forced to flee her adopted gray pack when the alpha male becomes a vicious threat, she struggles to live as a lone wolf, until Devlyn, the gray male who rescued her as a pup, comes to bring her home.

When a local red werewolf goes on a killing spree, Bella and Devlyn must flee the murderer, the police and their vengeful pack leader. With the full moon rising, and her heat upon her, Bella can’t resist the pull to her destined mate, even if means Devlyn will have to face the wicked alpha male in a fight to the death…

A sizzling paranormal romance based on extensive research on how wolves live and behave in the wild, creating a fascinating world of nature and fantasy.

Amazon          B&N          iBooks          Kobo

heartof-highlandwolf-300Heart of the Highland Wolf
Book 1 in Terry Spear’s Highland Wolf Series

It’s a matter of pride…

Modern day werewolf laird Ian MacNeill reluctantly allows a film production company to use his castle, but he knows his secretive clan has a big problem when a beautiful red werewolf female who insists she’s working on the film keeps showing up in the wrong places…and a matter of pleasure.

Julia Wildthorn is not who she says she is-she’s sneaking into Argent Castle to steal an ancient relic for her grandfather and to do research for her next werewolf romance novel. When she catches a glimpse of Ian, she realizes he’s the perfect hero.

Amazon          B&N          iBooks          Kobo

destiny-of-the-wolfDestiny of the Wolf
Book 1 in Terry Spear’s Silver Town Wolf Series

All she wants is the truth
Lelandi Wildhaven is determined to discover the truth about her beloved sister’s mysterious death. But everyone thinks she’s out to make a bid for her sister’s widowed mate.

He’s a pack leader tormented by memories
Darien Silver blames himself for his mate’s death. When her twin arrives in his town, he finds himself bewitched, and when someone attempts to silence her, he realizes that protecting the beautiful stranger might be the only way to protect his pack—and himself.

Amazon          B&N          iBooks          Kobo

a-seal-in-wolfs-clothingA SEAL in Wolf’s Clothing
Book 1 in Terry Spear’s SEAL Wolf Series
— A USA Today Bestseller!

Her instincts tell her he’s dangerous…
His powers of persuasion are impossible to resist…

While her overprotective brother’s away, Meara Greymere’s planning to play—and it wouldn’t hurt to find herself a mate in the process. The last thing she needs is one of his SEAL buddies spoiling her fun, even if the guy is the hottest one she’s ever seen.

Finn Emerson is a battle-hardened Navy SEAL and alpha wolf. He’s a little overqualified for baby-sitting, but feisty Meara is attracting trouble like a magnet.

As the only responsible alpha male in the vicinity, Finn is going to have to protect this intriguing woman from a horde of questionable men, and definitely from himself.

Amazon          B&N          iBooks          Kobo

2194e-savagehungerSavage Hunger
Book 1 in the Heart of the Jaguar Series

USA Today bestselling author Terry Spear has captured hearts worldwide by wrapping the realities of nature into the glorious romance of the wild. Now, she turns her award-winning imagination from the sexy werewolf hunt to the intense sizzle of jaguar shape-shifters.

As a jaguar he is graceful and gorgeous…

Speedy and stealthy…
Fierce, independent, and wild…

As a man he is passionate and powerful…

Willful and wonderful…
And he’ll stop at nothing to protect what’s his…

Amazon          B&N          iBooks          Kobo

 

Thanks for joining us today, Terry.  I look forward to seeing you in Daytona come February.

For those that can’t make the convention, you can still join in the fun by joining our 2017 Featured Authors Reading Challenge.  It’s open to everyone.

 

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Thanks to everyone who joined us today. I always want to know what my readers think.

Do you have a tip or experience from a convention you would like to share? Or perhaps you have a question or comment. Please share them with us.