Review/Excerpt: Omega’s Choice (The Black Ridge Wolf Pack Book One), by Lilli Carlisle Reply

4 out of 5 Stars

Available For Purchase On:

Boroughs Publishing       Amazon        Smashwords    

Kobo       BN

Review:

I thoroughly enjoyed this fairy tale, modern day romance filled with shifters, witches, ogres, elves, warlocks, and all the technology we know. It’s a touching story set in a realm where it is tradition that the Omegas must make the choice of who to take as a mate, their Alpha. Princess Helena is finally of age where she can attend the traditional Omega’s Celebration, and for two years she’s had her eye on Aldric, leader of the Black Ridge Wolf Pack. She can’t believe her good fortune when she finds out that Aldric has not been claimed and will be attending the celebration. Aldric has no desire to attend the Omega Celebration, only to not be claimed once again due to his scars. However, even though his little sister tells him that he’ll finally meet his Omega at this celebration, he vows this will be his last. The story proceeds from there, and it is a very touching, romantic story, with loyalty and acceptance, but one that also contains danger and betrayal.
I look forward to more books in the series from this new to me author.

Reviewed by Vampire Fan

Our Blog was given this book in exchange for an honest review.

Description:

In a realm of elves, ogres and white witches, where danger is ever-present, Princess Helena Lichtenberg lost her parents at a young age. Raised by her uncle and aunt, Helena values family above all else. Now, as decreed by tradition, it is time to select a mate.

HER ALPHA

Enormous, scarred and scary, Black Ridge Wolf Pack leader Aldric Forst has never drawn the eye of any Omega. Why would he? But, on this, the night of what he swears is his last selection celebration, everything is different. One of those most beautiful, magical and powerful women, the niece of the king and queen themselves, wants him. And Aldric has never wanted anything more in return. No force—no matter how dark, no matter how powerful—will take Helena from him.

Excerpt:

Princess Helena took that moment to turn toward him again. Instantly, his heart raced, his palms became sweaty, and a nervous excitement rolled around in his stomach, which he wasn’t entirely sure he liked. After all, he was a feared warrior, people looked to him for guidance and strength, and now he felt like he was going to pass out because a gorgeous woman was smiling at him with such joy.

As Amalia spoke to Helena, the princess’s small omega stone on her forehead glowed, and it was impossible to miss the waves of happiness coming from her.

“Looks like the princess is happy you agreed to dance with her, brother.” Godric looked about ready to burst with excitement. “Should I call home and have the rest of our party get on the road?”

“No, not yet, Godric. Let’s see how the evening goes first. Then we can call in reinforcements.” Aldric didn’t want to get ahead of himself. He refused to be let down again. “What do you think Lady Amalia meant by she’d waited years?”

“I have no idea, but I do know the only way you’re going to find out is by asking the princess herself. Ready to waltz, brother?”

“At least all mother’s lessons are about to come in handy. What if she expects our normal life to be like this?” Aldric panicked.

“Okay, now you’re just looking for problems that aren’t even here yet. Get out there and sweep that princess off her feet with the alpha you are. Wait until I tell Cassandra she was right yet again.” Godric had a look of absolute glee at the prospect of making that call back to the pack.

“Yeah, well, if Cassandra was right about this, brother, then she also predicted that I would have to fight for my omega.”

Godric turned to face Aldric and all humor fled from his expression. “If we have to fight for your omega, then it’ll damn well be one we win, I can assure you of that. If this night goes well, I’ll be calling in more warriors as well. They will be here before the sun rises.” Both Theron and Tofa nodded in agreement, even if Theron continued to tap away on his tablet.

“We shall see, Godric. Let’s hope I don’t step on her foot. Then it may be the royal guard we need to fight.” Aldric laughed as he, Godric, Theron, and Tofa stood and made their way across the ballroom to stand in front of King Leonidas, Queen Alexandra, and Princess Helena.

Princess Helena was simply stunning; her emerald green eyes beamed with happiness as he approached. Aldric had never felt this level of immediate attraction before in his lifetime. Helena’s curly blonde hair was pulled away from her face, showcasing her royal tattoo and tiny vines twisting down her slender neck to her collarbone. Her smile lit up everyone and everything around her and her green eyes shone with happiness.

Aldric, Godric, Theron, and Tofa stood before the king and queen, bowing respectfully and waiting for King Leonidas to speak. The entire time, Aldric hoped like hell he didn’t screw this up.

The room had grown strangely quiet.

About the Author:

Lilli Carlisle lives outside Toronto, Canada. She’s a member of the Romance Writers of America and its chapter, Toronto Romance Writers. Lilli is a mother of two wonderful girls, wife to an amazing man and servant to the pets in her life. She writes both contemporary and paranormal romance and believes love should be celebrated and shared. After all, everybody needs a little romance, excitement, intrigue and passion in their lives. Lilli loves to hear from readers, you can find her here:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lillicarlisleauthor

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/LilliCarlisle

Spotlight: The Dragon’s Playlist, by Laura Bickle 1

Available For Purchase On:

Pronoun

Amazon      BN      iBooks      Kobo      Google Play

Description:

From the author of THE HALLOWED ONES and NINE OF STARS comes a new novel blending the magical and the real…

“This is war,” the dragon said. And she believed him.

Di fled rural West Virginia to study music and pursue a bright future as a violinist. But when a mining accident nearly kills her father, she is summoned back home to support her family. Old ghosts and an old flame emerge from the past. When Di gets a job as a bookkeeper at the same mine where her father worked, she is drawn into a conflict pitting neighbor against neighbor as the mine plans an expansion to an untouched mountain.

If the mining company’s operation goes forward, there will be more at stake than livelihoods or the pollution of the land: Di has discovered a dragon lives deep within Sawtooth Mountain, and he is not happy with this encroachment upon his lair. When catastrophe strikes, Di must choose between her family’s best interests and protecting the dragon – the last surviving bit of magic in Di’s shrinking world.

In every fight, sides are chosen. And there can be no yearning for what has been left behind.

Read 2 New Chapters Free Each Week Starting June 1

at

Wattpad

and

https://www.facebook.com/Author.Laura.Bickle

About The Author:

Laura Bickle grew up in rural Ohio, reading entirely too many comic books out loud to her favorite Wonder Woman doll. After graduating with an MA in Sociology-Criminology from Ohio State University and an MLIS in Library Science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, she patrolled the stacks at the public library and worked with data systems in criminal justice. She now dreams up stories about the monsters under the stairs. Her work has been included in the ALA’s Amelia Bloomer Project 2013 reading list and the State Library of Ohio’s Choose to Read Ohio reading list for 2015-2016.

More information about Laura’s work can be found at www.laurabickle.com

https://twitter.com/Laura_Bickle   

https://www.facebook.com/Author.Laura.Bickle

 

Review/Excerpt: Pride of a Viking (The MacLomain Series Viking Ancestors’ Kin Book Five), by Sky Purington 1

5 out of 5 Stars

Available For Purchase On:

Amazon      Kobo      iBooks      BN

Review:

No matter how many of Purington’s books I read I am always amazed how well she writes and how the stories flow. The characters are like old friends, made so from the first book in the series. I always feel like I am in the midst of the action and caught up in all the emotions of the characters. And this last book in the whole Viking/ MacLomain group of series has everything I have come to expect and love. IT is both exciting and very sad to read the last of such epic books. My heart will miss these characters. Purington has made me believe that one can travel through time and find love, that dragons are real and can soar through the sky and that when you believe,  anything is possible. Please get these books and start your journey. IF you love fantasy, time travel and romance then these books will be favorites.               VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

 

Reviewed by Wildcatnana

Our Blog was given this book in exchange for an honest review.

Description:

Two men tore Erica’s world apart in another life. One was the man she loved and the other the enemy. Now both are back, and it’s up to her to make sure an ancient blood feud doesn’t destroy everyone she cares about. That means steering clear of her dragon mate. But sometimes memories are too strong and the past too powerful. Or so it seems when she slips back in time and ends up on an unexpected journey with a man she was determined to forget.

Having confronted who he once was and what he did in a previous life, Kodran Sigdir sets out to seek answers. He needs to better understand his part in an age old war and to keep his distance from Erica. They should remain apart. Yet destiny seems to be drawing him back to her. How he once felt. All he gave up. Could things go differently this time? Or will the risk to their people be too great? Find out as Erica, Kodran and their kin go up against the enemy one last time in Pride of a Viking, the epic conclusion of Viking Ancestors’ Kin.

Excerpt:

“Are you sure Hallstein was your mate in another life?” His eyes held hers as he spun her so that they were facing each other. “Do you have memories of your time with him?” He shook his head, spoke through clenched teeth and worked hard to keep rage from taking over as he caught glimpses of what she had endured. “He did things to you, Erica. Terrible things. Things that make no sense given you were Maeva…his mate.”

She leaned back, clenched her jaw and averted her eyes. “Yes, he was my mate. I’m sure of it.”

“Then why can’t you look at me when you say that?” He tilted her chin until she had no choice but to meet his eyes. “What aren’t you telling me? What’s the missing piece?” He frowned. “Because something’s not adding up.”

“It doesn’t…you just…” She frowned as well. “You need to let this go. You need to let me go. It’s the only way this is going to work. It’s the only hope we have.”

“And where am I supposed to let you go to?” He glanced around to remind her where they were before his eyes returned to hers. “Because it’s out of my control, yes?”

“You know what I mean.”

“Do I?” He stepped a bit closer and never removed his fingers from her chin. “Because as far as I can tell you want me to believe you desire Hallstein when that’s the furthest thing from the truth. I think you’re trying to push me away so that you can somehow save everyone all on your own.”

Because he was remembering his last life, he remembered what Maeva had looked like. While they shared the same tall, lithe build with curves in all the right places, he found Erica more stunning in this life. Her eyes were varying shades of striking green that seemed to shift with her mood, and her warm skin tone was luminous. He wanted to feel her soft skin against him. Touch every last inch of her.

She went very still as their eyes held. Or so one would think if they couldn’t detect the slight tremor that went through her. Shivers that only translated to another dragon. He also noticed that she had gone from momentarily vulnerable to completely closed off despite her physical reaction.

“You’re good at that,” he murmured, shifting even closer to see if he could bring out that tremor even more. “Trying to be strong for everyone else all the time. How long have you played that part?” While he should have remained compassionate and thankful, his inner dragon was flaring. The jealousy that reared whenever he thought about her in the enemy’s arms. “How long have you been playing the part of a woman trying to convince Hallstein that you’re his? How long have you been—”

“No,” she cut him off, yanked her chin away and narrowed her eyes. “What I’ve done to help our people is not because—”

“Because you’re meant to be together?” he cut her off just as readily, as he turned things around on her. “Because you’re not, are you?” He shook his head and narrowed his eyes as well. “You’re not supposed to be with him.” His voice dropped to a whisper as the truth hovered just out of reach. Like a memory he was right on the verge of remembering. “You never were, but something happened…”

Something he needed to understand, so he thought fast. If one thing had been proven true with his kin and their mates it was that intimacy seemed to speed up their mental connections. So why not get things moving in that direction?

It seemed Erica followed his line of thought because a moment later she started to move away but he caught her. With an arm around her lower back, he yanked her against him, cupped the back of her neck and kissed her.

The moment he did, everything changed.

About the Author:

Sky Purington is the bestselling author of over thirty novels and several novellas. A New Englander born and bred who recently moved to Virginia, Sky was raised hearing stories of folklore, myth and legend. When combined with a love for nature, romance and time-travel, elements from the stories of her youth found release in her books.

Purington loves to hear from readers and can be contacted at Sky@SkyPurington.com.

Interested in keeping up with Sky’s latest news and releases? Visit Sky’s website, http://www.skypurington.com to download her free App on iTunes and Android or sign up for her quarterly newsletter. Love social networking? Find Sky on Facebook and Twitter.

Website:   www.skypurington.com

Blog:   www.skypurington.blogspot.com

Twitter:   www.twitter.com/skypurington

Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sky-Purington/260484263999780

Pinterest:   www.pinterest.com/skypurington

Newsletter: http://www.skypuringtonwrites.blogspot.com/p/newletter.html

Tour giveaway:

1 $25 gift card to winner’s choice of Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

Rafflecopter Link:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ba112ffc1629/

Review: Her Wounded Dragon (The MacLomain Series Viking Ancestors’ Kin Book 4.5), by Sky Purington 1

5 out of 5 Stars

Available For Purchase On:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071W7LWFF

Review:

This is the first book I have read by this author and it will not be the last. Wow is about all I can say. I loved this book. I really had no idea what I was in for. Now I am going to have to go back and read the other books in this series. There was a time or two that I felt like I was missing something so going back and reading the previous books should answer my questions. With that said this really is a good, fun, sexy, HOT, quick read. Ms Purington is now at the top of my TBR list for Dragon Shifters. I Highly Recommend this book.

Reviewed by Epiphany

Our Blog was given this book in exchange for an honest review.

Description:

Curiosity is a dangerous thing and temptation a death wish. Especially for someone like Vivienne with her complicated past and closely guarded secrets. Yet when she has a chance to get near the enemy because of a sexy dragon shifter haunting her dreams, she doesn’t think twice. Even if it means seeking out a paranormal dating agency and tagging along incognito to scope him out as her best friend goes on a date with him.

Kage knows within minutes of meeting Vivienne that she isn’t who she pretends to be. As the right hand man of the enemy, it’s his job to figure out if she’s a threat. More so, if she’s a risk to his hidden agenda and well laid plans. Soon enough, he realizes the only danger she poses is to his hardened heart. After all, there’s no defense against the scorching desire dragons feel when they find their long lost mate.

Excerpt:

Julie dashed all hope of close contact with Viv when she sat between them. Soon after, the only waitress in the joint leaned over their table far enough to offer an ample view of her cleavage as she batted her lashes at him. “What’ll ya have, handsome?”

Kage gestured at the girls. “Ladies first.”

“Wine’s fine,” Julie said.

“Long Island Iced Tea, please,” Vivienne murmured. “Double the tequila.”

Interesting. Liquid courage?

Julie’s eyes widened on Viv before she spoke to the waitress. “Something to munch on too, please.”

“Sure.” The waitress tossed down a menu. Her eyes never left Kage. “And you, sweetheart?”

“Whatever you have on tap’s fine.” He winked just to see if Viv reacted. “The stronger, the better.”

Viv didn’t react. Not outwardly. But he got the impression the waitress had a target on her back.

“So, Julie.” Kage rested his arm on the back of Julie’s seat, yet another test to see how her assistant would react. “Tell me more about yourself.” He offered a casual smile. One designed to cultivate trust. “Running a P.I. business sounds intriguing.”

“It does…it is.” Julie nodded. “Very intriguing.”

“I’d love to hear more.”

“Yeah, sure.” Julie began pressing the pad of her thumb against the edge of the table as though trying to pinpoint how to spin her bullshit tale. “It’s…complicated.”

As complicated as not having researched her lie before telling it.

“Complicated, how?”

“Like, just…well, you know…”

He warmed his smile even more. “I’m afraid I don’t.”

Julie swallowed, her eyes glued to his as she tried to come up with something.

“It’s complicated because it’s detective work,” Viv cut in as the waitress plopped their drinks down, didn’t bother with a food order but flashed five fingers at him, winked then sauntered off. He supposed that meant she’d be available for sex out back in five.

Figure the odds.

“Well, then, tell me about detective work.” He grinned at Viv. “Is it as boring as it sounds?” A languid grin curled his lips. “Or can you make it sound exciting?”

He didn’t miss the catch of her breath.

“I suppose that depends on what you’re investigating,” she replied before she brought the straw to her lips and sucked.

He’d been around a lot of beautiful women who offered to do all sorts of creative things with their mouths, but nothing compared to the way Viv worked a straw. A bolt of lust slammed into him as her sexy-as-sin lips wrapped around that little bit of plastic and sucked up over half her drink.

There was no stopping his arousal.

Or his low growl.

He didn’t care who she was or if she might have been planted by the enemy, he wanted her. And it didn’t matter where. His eyes skirted from the bathrooms to the rear entrance to the damn linen closet. Then his eyes dropped to the table. All it would take was a little dragon magic, and he could bend her right over this. None would be the wiser.

And if she wanted to keep sucking on that little straw the whole time, who was he to judge?

Meanwhile, Julie’s eyes were wide as saucers on him, and Viv had gone perfectly still. Too still. That’s when it hit him. A scent unlike any other. Sweet. Spicy.

Female dragon.

But not just any female.

Her.

Vivienne.

About the Author:

Sky Purington is the bestselling author of over twenty-five novels and several novellas. A New Englander born and bred, Sky was raised hearing stories of folklore, myth and legend. When combined with a love for nature, romance and time-travel, elements from the stories of her youth found release in her books.

Purington loves to hear from readers and can be contacted at Sky@SkyPurington.com. Interested in keeping up with Sky’s latest news and releases? Visit Sky’s website, http://www.skypurington.com to download her free App on iTunes and Android or sign up for her quarterly newsletter. Love social networking? Find Sky on Facebook and Twitter.

Website:   www.skypurington.com

Blog:   www.skypurington.blogspot.com

Twitter:   www.twitter.com/skypurington

Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sky-Purington/260484263999780

Pinterest:   www.pinterest.com/skypurington

Newsletter: http://www.skypuringtonwrites.blogspot.com/p/newletter.html

Tour Giveaway:

A $25 gift card to winner’s choice of Amazon or Barnes and Noble.

Rafflecopter Link:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ba112ffc1604/

 

Spotlight/Review: Dark Angel (The Fallen Chronicles Book 1), by Amanda Jones Reply

5 out of 5 Stars

Cover Artist: Jenny Dixon

Available For Purchase On:

New Concepts Publishing          Amazon

Tagline: With this fallen angel it never felt so good to be bad!

Review:

Loved this story line with all the fallen angels and the struggle that they were all having. While I can say I don’t much care for the cover, I’m glad I didn’t judge a book by its cover?!?  Katia was a character that could have been a friend and I really can’t wait to see where The author plans on taking the story in the next books, I can tell you I will be there to read them when they’re done.

Description:

Katia may be a celebrated musician, but she’d always felt a little like an outsider looking in. Who knew that being abducted by a handsome stranger would set her on a crash course with her destiny…

Luc has spent an eternity keeping everyone and everything at a distance as an unstoppable darkness consumes his soul. Will his beautiful captive be his salvation, or will they both be consumed by the ultimate evil…

About the Author:

Amanda Jones lives in Toronto with her exceptionally spoiled pets.  Aside from sharing her crazy imagination with others through her books Amanda enjoys travelling and frequent Netflix binges.  Amanda has worked in several fields including sports, music, film, corporate human resources, and is a graduate of York University and Sheridan College.

Website: www.amandajonesauthor.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/darkangelauthor/

Twitter: @AmandaLJ1981

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14761429.Amanda_Jones

Amazon Author Central: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B0196WYYRW

Tour Giveaway:

$50 Amazon Gift Card

5 ebook copies Dark Angel

Rafflecopter Link:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ba112ffc1590/

Review: Daughter of Aithne (The Silver Web Book Three), by Karin Rita Gastreich 1

3 out of 5 Stars

Available For Purchase On:

Amazon

Review:

This is the first book by Karin Rita Gastreich, and having not read the first two book I did not know what I was in for. I did have some difficulty getting in to this story which I found frustrating. Some of the wording for me was tiring and tedious. I found this book to be fairly well written and with enough back story so I was not completely lost. I feel this book should be read by 16+.

Reviewed by Epiphany

Our Blog was given this book in exchange for an honest review.

Description:

Betrayed by her own prodigy and accused of treason, Eolyn forges a risky alliance with the ruthless and cunning Mage Corey. As enemies old and new rise to arms, the beleaguered queen of magic prepares for a final, desperate battle to secure her son’s throne.

Across the Furma River, Taesara of Roenfyn is drawn out of seclusion and into an ever-more vicious game of intrigue and war. Subject to the schemes of her uncle and the mysterious ambitions of the wizards of Galia, she fights to assert her will while defending her daughter’s inheritance.

In the climactic finale to The Silver Web trilogy, threads of love, honor, betrayal, and vengeance culminate in a violent conflict between powerful women, opposed to each other yet destined to shatter a thousand-year cycle of war.

“Vigorously told deceptions and battle scenes…with a romantic thread.” -Publishers Weekly review of Eolyn, Book One of the Silver Web

“Lush, evocative descriptions carry readers through an unforgettable journey.” –Kirkus Reviews review of Sword of Shadows, Book Two of the Silver Web.

Excerpt:

Taesara left the kitchen and climbed the narrow stairs that led to the Mother’s study and a handful of chambers set aside for receiving guests from the outside world. The rest of the cloister was stark in its furnishings and modest in decoration, but here the chairs and tables were finely carved. Tapestries graced the walls with images of men and women called by Thunder during the long and difficult history of Taesara’s people.

When she entered the study, the man standing at the window wheeled about and pinned her with a stern gaze. His long face was framed by graying hair, his sage cloak richly embroidered with silver threads.

“My Lord Regent.” Taesara sank to her knees, deeply troubled by this unannounced visit.

A rustle of skirts indicated the Mother’s approach. The old woman laid a frail but steady hand on Taesara’s shoulder. “If it pleases you, Lord Regent, I will take my leave now, so that you may speak with your niece.”

Taesara looked up at the Mother with a mixture of hurt and trepidation. “Dear Mother, I have no family in this world, not since I—”

“Hush, my daughter.” The Mother took Taesara’s face in her hands and studied her with kind eyes. “I know the vows you took when you entered this place better than you. I do not doubt the devotion with which you have served the Gods as part of our community these many years. Your family has indeed been dead to you, but now Thunder wishes to call you back to the world of the living. Listen to your uncle, for he seeks to resurrect your heart from its grave. The news he bears will bring you much joy.”

“But I don’t want—”

“Know that whatever you decide, you have my blessing.” The Mother kissed Taesara and left, closing the door quietly behind her.

Taesara lowered her gaze to the floor, burdened by a terrible uncertainty she had not felt in years.

Sylus Penamor, Lord Regent of Roenfyn, strode forward and extended a gloved hand to his niece. “Rise, Taesara.”

She obeyed, stiffening as Penamor took her chin in his fingers and subjected her to cold inspection. After a moment, his frown deepened and he shook his head. “Only the Sisters of the Poor could take a woman at the height of her flower and turn her into a dried-up weed.”

Taesara bristled. “There is no place for vanity within these walls.”

“Apparently not. They’ve made you skinny and sallow. Though it is nothing, I’ll wager, that a bit of sun and some proper food cannot remedy. What are these rags they dress you in?”

She stepped away, clenching her jaw. “This is all I need. All anyone needs, to live at peace in this world.”

Penamor snorted. “Indeed.”

“Why are you here?”

“I’ve come to fetch you home.”

“This is my home.”

“This was your temporary refuge. A foul place, but one of your choosing. We were generous enough to let you stay, first your father and then I, as we put the outside world in order. Now it is time for you to return.”

“I am not going back.”

“Oh, but I think you will.” Penamor spoke with an odd tone, at once menacing and full of promise. “War is at hand, and you will be the one to lead it.”

Taesara forced a laugh. “You know I will have no part of it. Eliasara would die at their hands if we so much as—”

“They do not have Eliasara,” he said. “We do.”

Shadows flashed through Taesara’s vision. She stumbled and caught hold of the back of a chair. A chasm opened inside her heart, swallowing the vines and trees with which she had concealed her love and pain during all these years. The bitter flood of anguish returned full force.

“Where is she?” Taesara did not look at her uncle, her mind consumed by the image of King Akmael’s stony countenance, his dark intent, his merciless heart.

“About a day’s ride from here. She has been asking for you.”

“Is she…whole? Have they harmed her in any way?”

“Do you mean have they turned her into a witch? No. Eliasara is a true daughter of Roenfyn. She has remained faithful to her memory of you, and to the convictions of her people. And she is beautiful, Taesara, as lovely as you were at her age, with the same sweet smile and golden hair.”

“She will not recognize me. She had only just begun to walk when we were separated.”

“She will know who you are. That is enough. She wants a mother to love, and one who will love her. She needs you, Taesara.”

Unable to endure the weight of the moment, Taesara sank to the floor. Oh, sweet Thunder, help me.

“What is this unbearable work of the Gods?” she asked. “How has such a thing come to pass?”

“That is an amusing story to tell.” Penamor knelt at her side. The smell of leather and horse stung her senses. “The wizard Tzeremond often said that the magas always betray their own, and so that old hawk’s wisdom has once again proven true. The Witch Queen’s greatest student, a maga warrior by the name of Ghemena, broke into Eliasara’s prison with two of her companions. They slew the Mage King’s guards and brought the Princess to Roenfyn, to me. Now the magas stand with us, ready to fight.”

Fire surged through Taesara’s veins.

“Who else?” she demanded. “Who else stands with Roenfyn?”

“Galia has agreed to support our cause, and new messengers have been dispatched to Antaria. We await their response. We also have allies inside Moisehén: noble families whose loyalty I have cultivated in secret; mages who pretend to serve King Akmael; and others among the Witch Queen’s guard who are anxious to see the line of Mage Kings dissolved. This is our moment, Taesara. Your moment. To exact vengeance on the King of Moisehén and his villainous harlot, to kill their bastards, and to see your daughter and all her descendants claim the Crown of Vortingen.”

Taesara straightened her back, withdrawing from her uncle’s grasp and taking deep breaths as she tried to steady her pulse.

After a long moment, she leveled her gaze at him. “I don’t care about any of that, Uncle. All I want is to see my daughter.”

A smile of triumph touched his lips. “As well I knew you would.”

About the Author:

Karin Rita Gastreich writes stories of ordinary women and the extraordinary paths they choose. An ecologist by vocation, Karin has wandered forests and wildlands all her life. Her pastimes include camping, hiking, music, and flamenco dance. In addition to THE SILVER WEB trilogy, Karin has published short stories in World Jumping, Zahir, Adventures for the Average Woman, and 69 Flavors of Paranoia. She is a recipient of the Spring 2011 Andrews Forest Writer’s Residency.

Web: https://krgastreich.com/

Twitter: @EolynChronicles

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Eolyn-110814625640244/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4431702.Karin_Rita_Gastreich

Tour Giveaway:

$15 Amazon or BN gift certificate.

Rafflecopter Link:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ba112ffc1575/

 

Review/Spotlight: Spellbound (A Limited Edition Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy Collection Bleeding Hearts), by Ash Krafton 1

3 out of 5 Stars

Cover Artist: Rebecca Frank

Available For Purchase On:

Pre-Order Sale Only .99

Amazon      Kobo      BN      Apple

Review:

This review is for Bleeding Hearts by Ash Krafton

At least the first half I found to be pretty slow.  The second half picks up and gets a bit more interesting.  I had trouble connecting with Marek and it might have been the author trying to give you the mysterious romantic interest.  Sophie is a young lady who has been holding her own and is successful, yet with Marek in the picture she now acts much different.  This story has a good plot idea, there just felt to be that little something that was missing.  This is not your typical vampire story for sure.

Reviewed by Fawnzy

Our Blog was given this book in exchange for an honest review.

Box Set Description:

The Spellbound Boxed Set is a compilation of 20+ Full-Length Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance reads!

Readers of all ages will be swept away by this fascinating mix of existing titles and brand new content, full of pages brimming with faeries, witches, vampires, shifters, psychics, Greek gods, angels, demons, and even ghosts!

With over a million words of fiction, this is your one stop shop for urban fantasy, epic fantasy, sword and sorcery, shifter romance, vampire romance, elemental magic, time travel, and MORE from today’s New York Times, USA Today, and internationally bestselling authors!

Although some of these reads may be gritty and dark, this is a collection of clean reads that anyone will enjoy!

The collection includes titles from…

International bestselling author Jade Kerrion

NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author Joanne Wadsworth

International bestselling author Nicole Zoltack

International bestselling author Rachel E. Carter

International bestselling author Andrea Pearson

International bestselling author Alicia Rades

International bestselling author Sophie Davis

USA TODAY bestselling author Michael J Ploof

International bestselling author Megan Crewe

International bestselling author C.E. Wilson

International bestselling author Kelly Carrero

International bestselling author Jess Haines

International bestselling author E. Blix

International bestselling author Alexis Kade

International bestselling author GP Ching

International bestselling author Gaja J. Kos & Boris Kos

International bestselling author Dara Fraser

International bestselling author Ash Krafton

International bestselling author Jim Johnson

NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author Tom Shutt

International bestselling author Emily Martha Sorensen

International bestselling author S McPherson

Book Description Bleeding Hearts by Ash Krafton

Sophie Galen is an advice columnist whose work leaves her neck-deep in other people’s problems. Thanks to her compassion, her gut instinct, and her magnetic charm, Sophie really knows how to attract little black clouds.

Marek Thurzo is no little black cloud; he’s a maelstrom. Marek is Demivampire, a race with the potential to evolve into vampire. A warrior who’s taken his share of spiritual damage, he hovers dangerously close to destruction.

He seeks salvation. She’s driven to save him. But what if he can’t be saved?

Sympathy for his plight becomes true empathy as Sophie’s hidden nature is revealed. Marek suspects she may be one of the Sophia, oracle and redemption of the damned Demivampire. She alone can turn back the evolutionary clock.

All she needs is the courage to face her fears. Can she save him from Falling?

The following is an excerpt from BLEEDING HEARTS Demimonde Book 1 by Ash Krafton

In the great hall housing the Egyptian exhibitions, I immediately noted the change in the atmosphere. The room was cool and dry, its climate controlled to mimic the conditions in which the relics had existed in their native land.

The entire room had been designed to resemble an Old Kingdom temple. The main lights were dimmed while strategically-placed spotlights emphasized massive columns and magnificent wall carvings like sunbeams through temple windows.

I scanned the room. No other tourists. Even better. I meandered, enjoying the rare opportunity to linger.

Craning my neck, I ran my gaze up each of the columns, reading the images, admiring the palm leaves carved at the tops like great stone trees. Eyes toward the ceilings, I turned slowly around, admiring the handiwork of the ancient artists.

What was it like to live in those lands and those times? Could an ancient version of my spirit have been there, stepping barefoot and silently through a sandy temple like this one?

Lost in contemplation, I was completely unprepared for the shock of smacking into someone, bumping him hard enough to lose my balance. I’d have fallen had he not caught my arm. Wide-eyed with consternation, I stammered an apology to the handsome but serious-faced gentleman.

“You are not hurt, I hope?” His voice, deep and smooth, sent shivers marching down my neck, between my shoulders, down my spine.

“I’m okay.” I shook my head, too shy to make direct eye contact, wishing I’d checked my hair and lipstick before coming in. “I’m far too adept at being inept.”

He flashed a grin and I caught a glimpse of nice white teeth. “Temples are places for spiritual reflection. It is forgivable if your vision was turned inward, rather than toward where you were walking.”

His expression softened by amusement, he tilted his head toward the pillars. “Majestic, aren’t they?”

I stole another glance at him—black hair smoothed back into a discreet tail, clear light skin framed by long sideburns, strong jaw culminating in a square, cleft chin. Like the other items in the museum, something about him made me want to look closer, inspect each detail.

A subtle flush warmed my cheeks and ears so I quickly turned back to the heights of the exhibition. Murmuring a sound of agreement, I circled the column, stepping a few feet away so I could see both him and the stone. “Do you visit this museum often?”

Furtive glances allowed me to take in more of his appearance a tiny section at a time. Clothing dark as his hair. Long blazer, something in between a suit coat and an overcoat. In one hand he carried a bound book and fountain pen, as if he’d been making notes.

His gaze was calm and steady and entirely on me. Taking a deep breath I permitted the contact of the direct look. My boldness was well-rewarded. His Paul Newman lips brought to mind the sculptured busts on display in the Greco-Roman Quarters and he wore a stern expression that cast a veil of hardness upon his features, enhancing the impression he’d been carved from marble.

Except for his eyes. The Roman busts bore eyes that were blank and white but this man’s eyes were alive with bright green color. Like gemstones, they glittered and drew my gaze.

“No, actually,” he said. “My first time here. Although, I admit, I’m drawn to places like this.” His voice made music of the words—deep bass notes and soothing rhythm.

“Ah!” I said. “A man after my own heart.” His left eyebrow arched so sharply I thought it might disappear into his hairline and I hurriedly continued. “Are you a professor?”

“No, nothing like that. I do studying of my own, it’s not a living. It’s more of a hobby. Personal research, of sorts.”

“Studying past times is one of my pastimes. It’s my preferred form of entertainment.”

“Mmm.” Eyebrow cocked again, he cast a disapproving look at me and swept his hand around the contrived temple. “Would the gods be pleased to know they are reduced to the level of entertainment?”

“I hope so.” I kept my tone light. Considering the seriousness of his expression, I didn’t want to accidentally insult him. “Otherwise, they’d have to be content with staying dead, right?”

His gaze swept over me and I shivered again as if the touch had been tangible, a brush of fingertips against my cheek.

“Well, I’ll leave you to your worship. I mean, your wanderings.” He gave me a conspirator’s wink. “Unless…”

He hesitated, with a quiet clearing of throat as he tucked his notebook and pen into an inside pocket. “You wouldn’t mind a companion? Sometimes one sees things differently when seeing through another’s eyes. I would appreciate a new perspective.”

I mulled it over, listening to the rain spattering the windows and distant voices echoing faintly from other rooms. Although I’d looked forward to a quiet afternoon, it might be nice to spend it with someone who seemed to share my interests. He certainly was attractive, and his pleasant voice intrigued me.

I realized I’d become used to living inside a shell. This man made me want to step outside for once.

“I’d like that.” I smiled at his pleased expression. “I’m Sophie, by the way.” I stuck out my hand in introduction.

Instead of shaking my hand, he bent his head over it and pressed polite lips to the backs of my fingers. The quaint gesture would have seemed strange and out of place had we been elsewhere. “I am Marek. Pleased to make your acquaintance.”

Fingers tingling from the unexpected kiss, I fought the urge to curtsy. “Well, Marek. Lead me into the past.”

His almost-smile sent a thrill down the back of my neck. “That’s exactly the sort of thing I’d hoped you say. Shall we?”

He turned on his heel and swept out a hand with a slight bow, indicating the archway to another exhibit. For the first time since I’d been coming to this museum, I wondered what I’d see on the other side, and was surprised to realize I wasn’t afraid to find out.

The first chapters of books by each featured author are also available in the Spellbound Sampler, available on Wattpad

About the Author:

A speculative fiction girl through and through, Ash writes paranormal romance and urban fantasy novels as well as poetry and short fiction. She also writes for New Adult audiences under the name AJ Krafton. Her work has won a bunch of awards and was even nominated for a Pushcart Prize. When she’s not writing, she’s practicing Tai Chi, listening to loud rock and metal, or crushing on supervillains.

Most recently, she’s re-released her urban fantasy trilogy THE BOOKS OF THE DEMIMONDE because she never really left the world of Sophie and her Demivamps. She’s also working on the next installment of her Demon Whisperer series.

Find out more when you visit www.ashkrafton.com

Blog: http://ash-krafton.blogspot.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/ashkrafton

Facebook: http://facebook.com/ashkraftonauthor

Goodreads: http://goodreads.com/Ash_Krafton

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/demimondeash

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/ash_krafton

Website: http://www.ashkrafton.com/

Newsletter: http://www.subscribepage.com/b1w9p1

Tour Giveaway:

$25.00 Amazon gift card

Rafflecopter Link:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ba112ffc1574/

Bonus Giveaway

Enter the Giveaway HERE

Spotlight: The Sun God’s Heir: Return (The Sun God’s Heir Book One), by Elliott Baker Reply

Available For Purchase On:

FREE ebook

Amazon    Kobo

https://books.pronoun.com/the-sun-gods-heir-return/

https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-sun-god-s-heir-return

https://www.amazon.com/Sun-Gods-Heir-Return-Book-ebook/dp/B01MS3RCE0

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-sun-gods-heir-return/id1218096408?mt=11&ign-mpt=uo%3D4

https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Elliott_Baker_The_Sun_God_s_Heir_Return?id=nYhrDgAAQBAJ

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-sun-gods-heir-elliott-baker/1125465056?ean=9781508070504

Description:

For three thousand years a hatred burns -In seventeenth century France two souls incarnate, one born the child of a prosperous merchant, the other, determined to continue a brutal incarnation begun long ago.

In ancient Egypt two brothers are disciples of the pharaoh, Akhenaten. When Pharaoh dies, the physician takes the knowledge given and goes to Greece to begin a new mystery school. The general makes a deal with the priests and becomes pharaoh. One remembers, one does not.

The year is 1671. René Gilbert’s destiny glints from the blade of a slashing rapier. The only way he can protect those he loves is to regain the power and knowledge of an ancient lifetime. From Bordeaux to Spain to Morocco, René is tested and with each turn of fate he gathers enemies and allies, slowly reclaiming the knowledge and power earned centuries ago. For three thousand years a secret sect has waited in Morocco.

After ages in darkness, Horemheb screams, “I am.” Using every dark art, he manages to maintain the life of the body he has bartered for. Only one life force in the world is powerful enough to allow him to remain within embodiment, perhaps forever. Determined to continue a reign of terror that once made the Nile run red, he grows stronger with each life taken.

Excerpt:

The boatswain, a large man with scars on his arms and face, walked over to stand in front of René. “Chain him to the mast.”

Their gazes met.

“Don’t look at me, boy,” he said, backhanding René in the face. “Look down at the deck when I talk to you. You’re some over-fed nobleman’s kid thinkin’ you make the rules. I’m surprised you ain’t cryin’ for your mama. You got a mama, boy?” he asked and laughed. When René didn’t answer, he hit him again. “I asked you a question, boy. Don’t try my patience, cause I ain’t got none.”

“My mother died when I was born,” René said, watching the man’s feet to see how he moved. He was cataloging everything he could see out of the corners of his eyes.

“Well, not to worry, you’ll be seeing her soon.” The boatswain turned to walk away and then turned back and hit René again. “I had to do that,” he said, and walked away laughing.

Though they had chained him in a way that didn’t allow him to sit, René had enough slack to turn and see most of the ship. He was aboard an English slave ship. She was an older carrack in design, still with the large forecastle. She had seen better days, though. The fact that she was still on the seas suggested either a cutthroat reputation or an experienced captain. Under the wear, the ship was surprisingly clean, her ropes and sails newly repaired and in good order. Second rate though she might be, she was seaworthy. This was a veteran crew, competent in their tasks. It wouldn’t be easy getting free, and even if he could, where would he escape to in the middle of  the ocean? Don’t rush fate. One thing at a time. Do what you can do, he heard the Maestro say. It was clear he would have to pick a fight, and hope he could survive long enough to begin creating allies. The next time the big boatswain walked by, René laughed.

“What are you findin’ so funny, boy?” The boatswain stuck his face within inches of René’s.

René had noticed the boatswain had one leg shorter than the other, and was certain the big man would be touchy on that point. “You walk funny, that’s all,” said René, raising his voice. It was of no use to him if he got beat up and no one knew why.

All work within the sound of René’s voice crashed to a complete stop. Silence reigned. René had guessed right. Now he could only hope he would survive his insight.

The boatswain stood in absolute disbelief, his face turning redder by the moment. “What did you say?” Spittle flew from his mouth.

Even the captain had turned to watch. René counted on the fact Gaspard’s agent had given the captain a great deal of money, along with explicit instructions that didn’t include throwing a dead boy overboard. What he didn’t know was how close to dead the agent considered acceptable.

“I said you walk funny,” René said—louder this time, so there would be no mistaking it.

“Do you know what a cat is, boy?” the boatswain said, clearly beyond rational thought. René could see the veins standing out in his neck and temples, his eyes shot red with blood.

“A small animal?” René asked.

There was a laugh from the men standing around the mast. The boatswain took one look around, and the laugh died.

“You, James, bring me the cat. I don’t think this boy has ever seen a real one. Your education has been sadly incomplete, boy. You’ll be thankin’ me for this. I promise you.” The boatswain’s voice was a rough whisper.

James walked over and handed the Cat-O-Nine-Tails to the boatswain. As he caught René’s eye, he sadly shook his head. The cat had nine long thongs of blood-encrusted leather dangling from a handle, knots tied along the length of each thong.

“This here’s a cat, boy. As you can see, it ain’t no small animal. Now, there’s a skill and a talent to usin’ a cat, both of which I’m proud to say I have. You see, you need to take care the thongs don’t get all stuck together with blood and skin, which they’re wont to do. If that happens, the cat’ll take yer organs right out, and that’s always a bad thing. So you need to run your fingers between the thongs every couple of strokes, to keep ‘em separate. I gotta tell you—as much pride as I take in usin’ the cat, sometimes I’m forgetful. I try to keep count, but before I know it, I plumb forget to clean the damn thing. I surely hope that don’t happen today.”

“I also have a skill and a talent, and I will kill you with it,” René said quietly.

For one second, the boatswain paused, confusion written across his face. “Turn him around, and chain him up. You there, strip off his shirt.”

About the Author:

Award winning novelist and international playwright Elliott Baker grew up in Jacksonville, Florida. With four musicals and one play published and produced in the United States, New Zealand, Portugal, England, and Canada, Elliott is pleased to release his first novels. The Sun God’s Heir: Return, book one of the trilogy, was released this past January, and book two, Rebirth will come out in April, followed in July by the third and final book of the series, Redemption. A member of the Authors Guild and the Dramatists Guild, Elliott lives in New Hampshire with his wife Sally Ann.

https://www.elliottbaker.com

https://www.facebook.com/ElliottBakerAuthor/

@elliottbaker on Twitter

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8423737.Elliott_Baker    

Cover Reveal: Fiskur (The Gemeta Stone Book 2), by Donna Migliaccio Reply

Publisher:

Fiery Seas

Description:

With his family’s talisman in his possession, Kristan Gemeta is ready to face the Wichelord Daazna – but he has no inkling of the scope of Daazna’s power, nor the depths of his hatred.

With the recovery of his family’s protective talisman, Kristan Gemeta has found hope, courage – and perhaps even the first stirrings of love.  With the aid of Heather Demitt, her band of rebels, a shipload of Northern brigands and the legendary Kentavron, he readies himself to face the Wichelord Daazna.  But neither he nor his comrades realize the strength of Daazna’s power and hatred.  The Wichelord’s first blow comes from a direction Kristan least expects, with horrific, lasting consequences.

About the Author:

Donna Migliaccio is a professional stage actress with credits that include Broadway, National Tours and prominent regional theatres.  She is based in the Washington, DC Metro area, where she co-founded Tony award-winning Signature Theatre and is in demand as an entertainer, teacher and public speaker.  Her award-winning short story, “Yaa and The Coffins,” was featured in Thinkerbeat’s 2015 anthology The Art of Losing.  

https://donnamigliaccio.com/

https://www.pinterest.com/donnaiswriting/

https://twitter.com/donnamig

https://www.facebook.com/mrsmig

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14735250.Donna_Migliaccio

 

Spotlight: Immortal Fire, by Annette Marie Reply

Available For Purchase On:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Immortal-Fire-Winter-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B06Y1WJR2X/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32862986-immortal-fire?ac=1&from_search=true

Description:

Once, Emi believed the heavenly gods were righteous and wise, while the earthly yokai spirits were bloodthirsty and evil. But with a traitorous deity poised to destroy her world, and the yokai standing as humanity’s only defense, the lies of her upbringing have toppled to reveal a far more terrifying reality.
​
Despite the looming threat, Emi can’t escape her greatest distraction: Shiro, the fox yokai who has so deftly claimed her heart for his own. Soon—too soon—she will have to break the curse that binds his magic and memories. And once the ancient power inside him awakens, the yokai she loves will be changed forever.

As the earthly gods gather to wage war against the heavens, Emi and Shiro must gamble everything to turn the tide against their immortal, all-powerful foes. Together, they will find a way to save her world—even if it means losing each other.

About The Author:

which includes Goodreads Choice Award nominee Yield the Night, and fantasy trilogy Red Winter. Her first love is fantasy, but fast- paced urban fantasy and tantalizing forbidden romances are her guilty pleasures. She lives in the frozen winter wasteland of Alberta, Canada (okay, it’s not quite that bad) with her comparatively sensible husband and their furry minion of darkness—sorry, cat—Caesar. When not writing, she can be found elbow-deep in one art project or another while blissfully ignoring all adult responsibilities.

Author links:

https://twitter.com/AnnetteMMarie

http://www.authorannettemarie.com/

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAnnetteMarie

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8546572.Annette_Marie

Giveaway:

Blitz-wide giveaway (INTL)

• 1x $25 Amazon gift card
• 2x $10 Amazon  gift cards

Rafflecopter Link:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/d04251231733/