nature and man - Vail Mountain Trilogy by Desiree L. Scott

It was supposed to be a vacation, a time to save her marriage, but what Joan Clayton hadn’t counted on was Murphy’s Law of Vail Mountain and the secrets that had damaged her marriage beyond repair. 

Guest Post and Giveaway Tainted Waters by Maggie Thom

Description:

He didn’t commit suicide but who’s going to believe her...

Frustrated at being fired from her latest job and overwhelmed by her consolatory family, Sam decides to move to the family’s cabin at the lake. A place she hasn’t been since her dad committed suicide there twenty years before. Or did he? Snooping is something she’s good at but someone seems to be taking offense to her looking too closely at what has been happening at the lake. What she discovers is shocking. Now she must uncover what’s real and what’s not. All that she learned growing up, may be false. Keegan who has recently moved to the area to finish his latest book is also trying to find out if his grandfather, who’d passed away ten years before, died of natural causes or was murdered? The descendants of the four families who own the land around the lagoon are dying off. Since Sam and Keegan are the only ones questioning the deaths, they find themselves working together to seek the truth. Are people being murdered? Who would benefit from their deaths? Why would there be barricades and armed guards at the north end of the lake? To stay alive, Sam and Keegan must find the answers and convince others, before more people are killed... including them.

GUEST POST

What inspired you to write in the suspense romance genre?

I love reading. I have been reading since I was quite young. I started out reading romances and real life stories. Then I branched out and started reading pretty much everything I could get my hands on. I also love writing and have been writing since I was quite young. When I was in my late twenties I decided I wanted to write a romance. I loved reading Nora Roberts, Judith McNaught, Jayne-Anne Krentz and many others and so I wanted to know if I could write like them. So I wrote a romance. And then another. And then another. I never really did anything with them because I always felt there was something missing. They weren’t quite there, as in being a good romance not as in writing like the authors I mentioned. :) 

By this point in time I had found authors like Sandra Brown, Mary Higgins Clarke, Robert Ludlum and many others. I found I loved the suspense. The intrigue. The mystery. So I started to play around with Captured Lies, the first novel I published, which was originally just a romance. I already really liked the story and had a lot of positive feedback from people but I wanted to add something. So I started to change it up. And I found that I liked the story a lot more. It was more compelling. More interesting. More grabbing. It finally felt like the story and my writing was finally there. 

I learned that I like creating suspense. I like creating strong, independent women who can look after themselves. I like having these women go on a journey to solve something and to ultimately find someone as well.

I think suspense, murder, mystery and romance make a fascinating read. Don’t you?

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About the author:

Maggie Thom took the challenge and leapt off, leaving a full time twenty year career in management, to write full time. After her initial panic that she might need a straight jacket, she published her first book Captured Lies, October 2012. And now is excited to release her second novel, Tainted Waters, April, 2013. Her third book, Deceitful Truths (sequel to Captured Lies) available fall of 2013. An avid reader and writer her whole life, she decided to break the monotony of wishing to be an author by making it happen. Married to her best friend, she is learning that humor, love and patience help her navigate her way through her twins’ teen years. 

Her motto: Escape to read and Read to escape. "Maggie Thom writes a fast paced thriller laced with romance that keeps the reader interested and on edge!" InDtale Magazine

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Author's Giveaway

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Guest Post, Excerpt and Giveaways Emotionally Compromised by A. Rosa

Published: November 15th, 2013

Description:

"A smile will get you far, but a smile and a gun will get you farther" -Al Capone.

Federal Agent Alex Turner deals better with guns than boyfriends, and prefers it that way. Her emotional range is bleak, but her aim is damn near perfect. 

Thinking saving the world is a far easier task than dating, Agent Turner springs at the opportunity to prevent young scientist Marcus Gibbs from selling his biological weapon to the highest bidder. With her goal in sight, and Marcus eating out of the palm of her hand, an obstacle she doesn't see coming interferes. Meet Jeremy Hunt -- the distractingly handsome CEO of Sunscape Biotechnologies, and Marcus's boss and best friend. 

A man who is accustomed to getting what he wants, Jeremy's never been one to take no for an answer, which has Agent Turner realizing for the first time that her wit might get her farther than her weapon. With no protocol or training to reference when it comes to matters of the heart, she worries that this might be her hardest assignment yet.

GUEST POST

Pretty Package With a Bad-Ass Bow

I had one goal in mind when writing my first novel:

I wanted a strong, kick-ass female character. Period. (No transitioning hormonal female pun intended).

While making it a point to read a lot of books last year, I realized I had pretty much only read Romance —this was an accident, but I found myself such a sucker for the genre. Who doesn’t love: girl-meets-boy, girl-falls-in-love with boy? *Fans-self* “Oh-Oh! ME!”

However, there was something frustrating about half of the books I read.

Their leading lady was flimsy, and at the whim of her leading man. The build of her confidence would be slow, and overwhelmingly frustrating to me, and all I thought was: 

When does the girl get to take the wheel on this weird road of love? 

Well, the truth of the matter is, men never let woman drive.

I needed to change that.

Finding that my first novel fit nicely into the genre of “Romantic Suspense” I found a home for my gun-wielding, witty main character, Special Agent Alex Turner, who’s lack of patience was a perfect characteristic for a woman who made her own destiny rather then simply let things happen. 

I think Agent Turner, gives the female lead, and the avid romance reader, hope.

A main character perfectly flawed, but driven to do better, especially when it comes to matters of the heart. Not to mention I wanted my main character to have the emotional range of a teenage boy, because let’s face it, not all girls know what the hell to do with their emotions. 

Okay, I must confess something though, because my main character is not only emotionally underdeveloped, but a federal agent; trained to kill on a whim, her morality hits a grey area constantly when it comes to the value of a human life, and on top of everything else she openly prefers her gun to a boyfriend. 

So, is she an impressively strong female lead, or an emotional nightmare? I like the dichotomy.

This is why I fell in love with the idea of this novel.

You’re suddenly being lead by Agent Turner, and you want her to succeed in a myriad of different ways. In Emotionally Compromised, she struggles to do her job, somehow manages a potential love interest, while at the same time keeping her sense of self, and doing the right thing —whether that means pulling the trigger, or taking down her emotional wall to do something as simple as telling her boyfriend how she feels. She’d argue pulling the trigger might be easier.

With Emotionally Compromised I wanted a pretty package with a bad-ass bow to place on top of it. I wanted a fluid combination of personal growth, wonderfully complicated emotional range, and heartfelt struggles of a powerful woman that could kick the butt of the average female lead.

I think I might have done it, and I hope the readers think so too.

EXCERPT:

I try the distraction technique. I press my lips against his, and though he is shocked by the move, he accepts them willingly. His lips devour mine in need.

He slams my body hard into the wall, and pins me with his hips. His hands drag down my torso, gripping my behind roughly, and his fingers dig into my skin.

This is Jeremy Hunt. Commanding and demanding. Another favorite. With this version, I don't need to think.

He pulls away from me, out of breath. "I need to know we are OK." I realize this is our way of doing things. Sometimes I suck at talking, and this might be my only way of showing him that we are fine.

His mouth covers mine again, and I can't help but whimper. He pulls away once more. "That's better."

The bastard knows that talking like this isn't my thing, and he seems aware of his power over me. I return his heated crystal glare with a wry look. Obviously, he's aware I let him control me. "Fine. Let's not talk, then."

He scoops me up, bridal style. "Jeremy, what are you doing?" I yelp in surprise.

"You don't want to talk. Fine! But I will at least make this more comfortable for both of us." He beelines for my bedroom.

"I am no good at talking," I blurt out.

He raises an eyebrow at me, starting up the steps. "Oh really? I think you are good at it when you are scolding me."

Before I can respond with something sarcastic, he throws me onto the bed. "Jeremy!"

"Oh, are you angry at me now?"

His grin is infectious as I watch his Viking form, in only his boxer briefs, crawl over the bed toward me. My previous anger vanishes, and I smile. How does he do that?

Before I can finish my thought, his lips come down on mine hard, he presses his hips into me, and he grabs my hands, pinning them above my head. His tongue dips into my mouth for a brief moment, teasing me, eliciting an involuntary moan to slip from my lips.

He pulls away looking triumphant. "Now that I've got you calmed down, and right where I want you"—his eyes glitter mischievously—"you need to know that I am glad I am everything to you."

My eyes widen, and the previous panic seeps back into my core. My arms jolt, trying to get free of his grasp, but his grip is firm. I try to speak, but he cuts me off with an authoritative voice. "I am not finished yet." He places a chaste kiss on my lips to soften the conversation. "We don't have to talk about it if you don't want to, and I have to admit that would frustrate the hell out of me, but for now I will let it go. I just want to say a few things. Maybe we don't know what everything means to us, but those feelings are mutual. You don't need to be scared, or embarrassed by your emotions. I can tell this is something you don't know how to handle, and in a way, it's kind of"—he tilts his head to the side as if pondering it for a moment—"cute."

I furrow my eyebrows at the word cute. Teddy bears are cute, not trained federal agents.

He laughs at my look and kisses the soft skin between my wrinkled brows. "You are so much cuter than you let on, but that is beside the point. You are a lot to handle, you know that?"

My lips twitch playfully, hiding my own secrets.. "Oh, you have no idea."

We both let out a belt of laughter, and things feel back to normal. Whatever normal means to us.

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About the author:

A. Rosa lives in San Diego, California. When she isn’t scouring city parks or cafe’s to write she is more than likely trying to convince her friends to join her on her next adventure. A sufferer of wanderlust, she is always looking for a new mountain to climb, a canyon to hike, or a plane to board. Her resume consists of coroner, to working at a zoo, and most recently as an executive assistant, but finds her home amongst words, whether it be in books, or in film. Her obsessions are on the brink of bizarre, but that’s just the way she likes it.

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Excerpt and Giveaway Sierra by Taylor Dean

Description:

Sierra by Taylor Dean Have you ever been lost in the woods? Alyssa Fontaine’s life, loved ones—everything familiar and dear—are brutally taken from her. Taken captive by two men, she endures a horrific nightmare. A new life is forced upon her and even a new name. Just when it appears that no hope is in sight, she is saved by an unlikely twist of fate. Trapped in the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains, life will open its arms to her again and she will embrace it. She will find love such as she never knew existed. Sierra is a heart-wrenching story of the power of the human spirit to survive amidst impossible circumstances and severe losses. It is a story of survival . . . and hope.

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EXCERPT:

This is one of my favorite scenes in Sierra. It's a pivotal moment, wherein Alyssa's life can change for the better--or for the worse. After facing extreme cruelty, she is faced with utter kindness. I love the marked difference between her experiences. ~Taylor Dean 

“Please sit,” he whispered. Her eyes were drawing him in. She didn’t seem to be scared of him, she seemed to know he wanted to help her. First, he filled a glass with water and held it to her lips. She drank thirstily, but then shook her head negatively when he wanted her to finish all of it. At the sink, he filled a small plastic tub with warm water, grabbed shampoo, and went back to Alyssa. The kitchen sink doubled as his bathroom sink. He had all he needed to clean her up, including a small first aid kit. He knelt in front of her. Once again, he gently touched her chin and lifted her face to his. Her eyes were bright with unshed tears. She had the biggest brown eyes he’d ever seen. 

“Just relax and let me take care of you, Alyssa,” he whispered softly. 

She responded with a slight nod. Sitting in the kitchen chair, he had her slowly lean her head back till it was resting just above the tub. He gently began to wash her hair, first getting it wet and then massaging the shampoo into her scalp. She winced when he touched the spot where dried blood matted her hair, so he was extra gentle there. Her long hair was tangled and filled with dirt and bits of dried leaves. It took some time to get it clean and several refills of warm water in the tub as he rinsed. Alyssa closed her eyes and relaxed for probably the first time in days. He worked conditioner into the long locks and then had her sit up as he gently combed through it, removing all of the snarls. He then parted the hair where the wound on the scalp was located and took a look at the gash. It was angry and red, and it needed stitches, but would have to wait till he could retrieve his medical supplies from the supply room. He disinfected it with alcohol and moved on. 

He again knelt in front of Alyssa. Her eyes opened and stared deeply into his, desperately trying to communicate without words. A lone tear fell, drizzling down her cheek. He brushed it away with his fingertips. This was harder than he thought. He knew this was the first gentle touch she’d felt in days. The abuse she had suffered was obvious to him as he noticed her many bruises. He grabbed his kitchen stool and sat before her. Using a washcloth, he began to wipe her face clean. As he worked, their eyes met and held. Ever so gently he wiped the dirt and grime away from days spent outdoors. And with it he wiped away tears and pain. 

“Please help me,” Alyssa whispered. 

Alex stole a glance at Pa and Adam. Pa’s eyes were closed and a soft snore emanated from him. Adam was wide awake, his shotgun pointed at Alex, but he stared into the fire sullenly. Alex leaned forward to grab the tube of anti-biotic ointment on the table. With his lips to her ear as he brushed past, he whispered, “Everything’s going to be all right, Alyssa. I won’t let them take you, I promise.” 

Alex then applied the salve to the small cuts on her face and lips. Each and every one of his ministrations clearly brought relief to her. Every time Alex looked her in the eyes, she met him with eyes that spoke volumes. He refilled the tub and washed her arms and hands and then took his time cleaning her fingernails, occasionally massaging her hand as he looked into her eyes. He also applied cortisone cream to her numerous mosquito bites. Next, he decided to tend to her neck and wrists. He cringed inside at the raw, bloody skin underneath the ropes. The first thing he’d wanted to do was cut the ropes, but he didn’t want to push his luck. However, now it was time. He went to the kitchen counter and unsheathed a kitchen knife. The sound of the knife being unsheathed brought Adam to his feet immediately. 

Shotgun aimed at Alex, he yelled, “Put it down, Doc.” 

Alex faced him without flinching. “I’m cutting the ropes. They’ve rubbed her skin raw and it’s going to get infected,” he said with steel in his voice. “You can have the knife when I’m done.” 

Pa awoke from his snooze in the commotion. “Sit down, Adam. Doc’s right. Let ‘em fix her up,” he growled. 

Adam continued to stand, anxiously waiting while Alex cut the rope on her neck and freed Alyssa from her leash. He then cut the other ropes and freed her wrists. She closed her eyes and Alex could see the relief on her face. He wondered just how long she had been bound. He handed the knife to Adam roughly and stared him in the face. “Satisfied?” 

“Won’t do any good, I’ll just be puttin’ the ropes back on ya know,” Adam taunted. 

Not if I have anything to say about it, thought Alex.

Praise for Sierra: 

Every now and then you come across a novel that profoundly takes your breath away, and Sierra is that novel. -Kathleen of Jersey Girl Book Reviews

Riveting from beginning to end. Be prepared to read straight through. -Sherry of Fundinmental Book Reviews

I thought I had read romances before, and books like "Jane Eyre" and "A Tale of Two Cities," I had always considered the peaks of romantic literature. Let me say this. This is the most romantic book I have ever read in my 38 years on this planet! -Ruth of My Devotional Thoughts

What I like most about Sierra was how Taylor lulls you in the beginning, then she shreds the peaceful scene to pieces. It happens so fast you barely have time to comprehend what is going to happen. Just like in real life. -Laura of FUONLYKNEW Book Reviews

About the author:

Author Taylor Dean Taylor Dean lives in Texas and is the mother of four grown children. Upon finding herself with an empty nest, she began to write the stories that were always wandering around in her head, quickly finding that she had a passion for writing, specifically romance. Whether it’s paranormal, contemporary, or suspense—you’ll find all sub-genres of romance in her line-up.

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BookBlast Giveaway $50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 11/22/13 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway Little Bird (The Tangled #1) by Liza Gaines

Description:

In his bonds, she learns to soar.

Lee Jackson is bad news for a girl like Savannah Alderton. At least, that’s what everyone keeps telling her when her boss tasks her with assisting Lee in the search for his missing ex-wife. But despite all the warnings and Lee’s overbearing attitude, she’s attracted to him from the start. Wanting more than the casual sex he readily offers, Savannah fears she is bound to get hurt. Can she take that risk?

After a dysfunctional marriage and demoralizing divorce, Lee doesn’t do relationships. Casual sex with women who don’t expect more is enough to meet his needs; especially if those women share his appetite for handcuffs and crops. Which means Savannah is all wrong for him. She isn’t his type, she’s naïve and inexperienced, and worst of all, she’s exactly the kind of woman who will want more than a rough tumble between his sheets. Still, Lee can’t seem to stay away and he can’t help but wonder if maybe he’s underestimated her.

As the situation with his ex-wife becomes more desperate, Lee and Savannah struggle to overcome their fears and begin to imagine a life together. Will they live long enough to see those dreams become reality?

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About the author:

Liza Gaines grew up in Michigan before moving to Northern Virginia in 2007. She misses her family and the Great Lakes but has otherwise fallen in love with her adopted home state.

The magic of getting lost in a book is one of her favorite things and is what led her to begin writing. She also loves cooking, baking and visiting the many historical sites in the Mid-Atlantic with her history buff husband and their two dogs.

For more information about Liza and what she's working on next, please visit her at:

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Cover Reveal Surrender To Temptation by E.B. Walters

Description:

A playboy in hiding

A woman searching for answers

Will he let her in or send her packing?

After a tragic accident, Chef Chase Fitzgerald left his life in Los Angeles behind and moved to a ranch in Montana. He's convinced that all he needs to be happy are his horses, a few ranch hands and the Big Sky Country. Until one day, Nikki Savoy walks through his doors with her city clothes, sexy mouth, and a body designed to drive a man insane.

Nikki wants to know the truth about the accident that left her sister in a coma. Getting a job at Chase’s ranch is just the beginning. Throw in a crafty housekeeper, a cantankerous old cowboy, a few adorable horses, and an attraction that can’t be denied, and you have a recipe for disaster or romance. Will Nikki get her answers or will Chase offer her something better?

 Goodreads

About the author:

EDNAH WALTERS grew up reading Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys and dreaming of one day writing her own stories. She is a stay-at-home mother of five humans and two American short-hair cats (one of which has ADHD) and a husband. When she is not writing, she’s at the gym doing Zumba or doing things with her family, reading, traveling or online chatting with fans.

Ednah is the author of The Guardian Legacy series, a YA fantasy series about children of the fallen angels, who fight demons and protect mankind. AWAKENED, the prequel was released by Pill Hill Press in September 2010 with rave reviews. BETRAYED, book one in the series was released by her new publisher Spencer Hill Press in June 2012 and HUNTED, the third installment, will be released April 2013. She’s working on the next book in the series, FORGOTTEN. Visit her at www.ednahwalters.com

Ednah also writes YA paranormal romance. RUNES is the first book in her new series. IMMORTALS is book 2. She is presently working on book 3, GRIMNIRS (Release date TBA). Read more about this series and the world she's created here www.runestheseries.com

Under the pseudonym E. B. Walters, Ednah writes contemporary romance. SLOW BURN, the first contemporary romance with suspense, was released in April 2011. It is the first book in the Fitzgerald family series. Since then she has published four more books in this series. She's presently working on book six. You can visit her online at or www.ebwalters.com.

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Cover Reveal organized by Page Flipperz & As You Wish Tours

Happy Release Day, Last Call by Michele G. Miller!

Description:

“You are cordially invited…”

Four words that spark the fear of God into any gently bred, single southern woman.

When Savannah Guthry receives an invitation to her cousin’s wedding back home in Charleston, South Carolina, her first thoughts aren’t of flowers and dresses. Instead, she's reminded of the groom: her first love and the reason she ended up at a college 500 miles away from home.

Determined to show up and dazzle not only her ex but her spoiled cousin too, Savannah allows her friends to set her up on a series of dates looking for Mr. Right.

Wrapped up in her memories of the past and the drama of her new romances, Savannah doesn’t see the dangerous threat to her life coming…

She might not land her Prince Charming before her Last Call.

Meet the Boys of Last Call:

EXCERPT:

Date number three in as many days. All I really wanted to do tonight was veg out in front of the television and read a good book. Two bad dates in a row was enough for one week. To make matters worse, it was seven-fifteen before my date showed up. He was forty five minutes late. Then he waved at me and pointed to the restroom. What the hell? I seriously contemplated just walking out of the bar, and went as far as to slide off the stool, when a husky male voice stopped me in my tracks.

"Tom Collins?"

Sigh. That accent could melt the panties off a girl. I was sure it had happened many times. Surprised, I met his warm brown eyes and asked, "You know my drink?"

"It's my job to know what the regulars prefer."

I shook my head immediately. "Oh, I'm not a regular."

He chuckled. That same deep chuckle I remembered hearing the night I left Mark at the bar. "My apologies, three nights in a row…I mistakenly assumed you made this a habit."

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About the author:

Michele is the author of the Amazon bestselling Coming of Age Fantasy- Never Let You Fall, The Prophecy of Tyalbrook Series and the New Adult Romantic Suspense, Last Call. She is currently working on the second book in The Prophecy of Tyalbrook Series, Never Let You Go.

Having grown up in both the cold, quiet town of Topsham, Maine and the steamy, southern hospitality of Mobile, Alabama, Michele is something of a enigma. She is an avid Yankees fan, loves New England, being outdoors and misses snow. However she thinks southern boys are hotter, Alabama football is the only REAL football out there and sweet tea is the best thing this side of heaven and her children’s laughter!

Her family, an amazing husband and three awesome kids, have planted their roots in the middle of Michele’s two childhood homes in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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Double Cover Reveal Forever & Always Series by E.L. Todd

Description:

When Scarlet realized Penelope was dumping Sean, her best friend, she was devastated. Penelope was the love of his life, the woman of his dreams. Scarlet knew how far her best friend was going to fall and she had to catch him. Scarlet became Sean’s rock and helped him through a very painful breakup, but her own hidden desires bubbled to the surface in the process. When they finally gave in and slept together, she thought it was the start of their new relationship. Unfortunately, Sean didn’t feel the same.

Humiliated and heartbroken, Scarlet moved across the country and found what she least expected. She rekindled her damaged relationship with her brother, who she hadn’t spoken to in a year, and her brother’s best friend was attractive and interesting. Their relationship was natural and unforced, and she was immediately drawn to him. Would she be able to get over Sean, forget about him, by sleeping with Cortland, or would that just be another repeated mistake?

Goodreads

Now that Sean and Scarlet are together, Scarlet couldn't be happier. They were meant for each other and would make any sacrifice to be together. With her greatest friend as her new lover, their relationship was perfect. But when Sean asks her to move back to New York, she hesitates. She doesn't want to leave her brother after finally reconnecting with him so they agree to make the coast-to-coast trip every weekend. Scarlet wants Sean to move to Seattle but she knows he can't leave his job for her. Scarlet fears that Sean still loves Penelope even though she never questions him about it. When Penelope shows up at Sean's apartment pregnant and penniless, Sean has to decide what he really wants. Will a baby interfere with the happiness that Scarlet has recently found?

Goodreads 

About the author:

E. L. Todd was raised in California where she attended California State University, Stanislaus and received her bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, then continued onto her master’s degree in education. While science is interesting and a hobby, her passion is writing. After writing novels as a small child, her craft grew until she found the confidence to show her closest friends—which is how Only For You, the first installment of the Forever and Always series, and the Soul Saga series began. When she isn’t reading or writing, she is listening to indie rock music. Her current favorite artist is Mumford and Sons, whom she credits most of her inspiration for her novels. She also enjoys running and swimming, as well as working as a high school teacher. She also works as an assistant editor at Final-Edits.com. She has an unusual obsession with dogs, even though she doesn’t own one, and her favorite vacation spot is Disneyland, which she visits several times a year. The most important aspect of her life is her friends, whom contributed so much time and energy into all of her novels. According to E. L. Todd, “Without them, Only For You and Soul Catcher never would have come to fruition. I am theirs forever.”

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Cover Reveal organized by My Pathway to Books

Happy Release Day! Scavenger Hunt: Bulletproof by Regan Black

THIS IS A SCAVENGER HUNT!

Be sure you check all the blogs participating to this hunt (see all the information below )!

Description:

A soldier is nothing without his honor.

To avoid a dishonorable end to his decorated military career, John Noble made a deal with the devil. He gave up his name, endured harrowing training, and accepted every mission thrown at him for one purpose: redemption.

When he accepts his latest orders, providing personal security for a reporter in trouble, he bargains hard to guarantee it will be his last job for the shadow agency he knows only Unknown Identities.

An ambitious reporter, Amelia Bennett, is about to break the story of her career, if she lives long enough to tell it. Caving to her boss's demand, she hires a bodyguard and soon it is obvious John Noble is the only obstacle standing between her and certain death.

Just when John believes he has found someone he can trust and love, who loves him unconditionally for who and what he has become, his orders are amended: Amelia Bennett is to be terminated.

Introducing Unknown Identities (UI): an alternative for elite soldiers and spies facing criminal charges... if they can survive the program. Don't miss Double Vision, the next installment of this sizzling, action packed series.

Giveaway Details:

There is a giveaway for everyone who, approving the participation conditions, successfully completes the scavenger hunt by turning in the excerpt with the key words in the correct places. Prizes include the following: 

GRAND PRIZE: $20 Amazon Gift Card + Swag 

Two runner-ups will win a $10 Amazon Gift Card 

Deleted Scene from Bulletproof by Regan Black:

Amelia's gaze kept sliding to John's hands as he traced the _______ scars on her grandmother's kitchen table. Those hands had battled to preserve her life twice this morning. _______ of writing the story that put her in danger, she found herself wanting to _______ more about the enigmatic man sitting across from her. 

He looked up and caught her staring. "Did your grandmother have any connection to Senator Larimore?" 

"Less than you," Amelia said, referring to the picture she'd _____ online of John serving on the protection detail for the senator's daughter. "Why?" 

"You said it yourself. Larimore has too much access to ________ and everything. Including, or more accurately, you. We ____ to assume he knows about this place and drove you out of the city for a reason." 

Amelia considered that. Her apartment in ____ Bay had been trashed, her meeting with her _______ interrupted before she could get what she needed. "He couldn't know I'd come all the way out here. The threats were only vague and creepy, nothing direct or personal, until the attacks today." 

A ______ chill prickled along the back of her neck. Today's attacks had ____ so close to succeeding. Without John… 

"You were closing in on the truth," he said. "He had to escalate. I think it's a good sign he didn't know you hired me to run interference." 

She wondered now why she'd been so resistant to her boss' idea of a bodyguard. "You've been a big help." 

He shrugged. "That's my job." Standing, he paced ____ from the table pausing to lean against the counter at the other ___ of the kitchen. "He thinks he's untouchable." 

She'd come to the same conclusion. "Until now, he has been. You said this house is defensible." 

"It absolutely is." 

"But?" He merely raised an eyebrow, and gestured for her to continue. "It's also isolated." The _________ half-smile tilting his lips felt like a much bigger _______. "You're suggesting the senator wanted me out of the city so I would be easier to kill." 

"You have a big, public fan base in Boston and you don't have a reputation for being intimidated." 

"I'm flattered you ______ into my rep." She held up a hand, halting his protest. "Just kidding. I know it goes with your job." 

"I didn't want to take this one." 

His whispered admission turned her thoughts sharply away from Larimore. "Not a fan of my work?" 

He shook his head. 

_____. It wasn't the first time a guy _______ her profession as an irritant, turn off, or intrusion. Assuming John Noble kept her alive, it wouldn't be the last time. Uncomfortable, she shifted in her seat and ________ to the safer topic. "Isolating me is a valid plan." 

"The logical assumption is he thinks this location will make it easier to eliminate you without any of the blood getting on his hands." 

A terrified tremor rattled _______ her and she laced her fingers together so he wouldn't see her hands shake. "Are you always so casual about life and death stuff?" 

"I'm much more _______ about death." 

She wished she could convince herself he was joking.

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About the author:

Regan Black, a USAToday bestselling author, writes award-winning, action-packed paranormal romantic suspense and urban fantasy novels featuring kick-butt heroines and the sexy heroes who fall in love with them.

Raised in the Midwest and California, she currently makes her home with her family, two retired greyhounds, two arrogant cats, and two quirky finches in the South Carolina Lowcountry where the rich blend of legend, romance, and history fuels her imagination.

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Don't forget to visit these blogs for your necessary clues!

Victoria @ Victoria’s Pages of Romance

Vicky @ Deal Sharing Aunt

William @ Pick of the Literate

Doris @ Dowie’s Place

Kay @ Kay’s Novel Nook

Dalene @ Dalene’s Book Reviews

if you lose track, go HERE to see the HUNT SCHEDULE and to find more information!
Good Luck!

Cover Reveal Something Wicked (The Psychic Detectives Series #2) by Angela Campbell

Release Date: October 31st, 2013

Description:

Psychic medium Alexandra King is sick of being pestered by her boss's dead mother demanding help to reunite her two estranged sons. Determined to get some peace and quiet again, Alexandra follows a lead in finding the younger Collins brother to Charleston, South Carolina, where she immediately meets the hottest man she's ever laid eyes on and finds herself a willing participant in seduction. Of course, her one-night-stand turns out to be none other than Dylan Collins — her boss's younger brother and a homicide detective who believes psychics are a complete waste of time. 

All Dylan wants is a few hours of pleasure to take his mind off of the case haunting him. A serial killer is stalking the streets of The Holy City — a killer who calls himself The Grim Reaper. When the woman he'd just spent the night with turns up and offers her services as a psychic consultant on the case, his ardor quickly cools. Last thing he needs is to get tangled up with a con artist. 

It doesn't take long for Dylan to realize Alexandra is the real deal - and the killer's next target. Dylan's protective instincts battle his reluctance to get too involved with a woman he isn't sure he can trust. As they get closer to finding the killer, they also grow closer to one another, but will Alexandra's secret agenda destroy their chance at happiness — if the killer doesn't strike first?

Book#1

Hannah Dawson has a big problem: she’s just become the unexpected owner of a snarky cat, a loveable but not-so-bright dog… and their $10 million fortune!

Which would be awesome if it hadn’t made her the target of every wacko in the metro Atlanta area. Now Hannah and her famous pets need protecting and there’s only one man who can help them…

Enter Zachary Collins: ex-TV star of ‘The Psychic Detective’ and street-wise private investigator – all 6 foot blue-eyed gorgeousness!

Only Zach’s got secrets of his own – not least that he finds his new client irresistibly hot. The more time he spends keeping Hannah out of harm’s way, the more he’s tempted to give in to the attraction… even if it means breaking all his own rules.

Book one in an exciting new trilogy from the witty, wonderful world of Angela Campbell!

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About the author:

Author Angela Campbell is an overachiever with a soft spot for men who dress funny. Superman, Charlie Chaplin, Dracula, Doctor Who, Elvis - those are her kind of heroes. An eclectic reader who loves almost every genre, Angela read her first romance novel at 16 and immediately endeavored to write one, too. Many offbeat attempts (and a couple of decades) later, she published her first novel through Carina Press. Her new romantic suspense series is being published by Harper Impulse. With every story she pens, Angela aims to build in a paranormal element to a contemporary and recognizable world with characters who find love in oftentimes humorous and extraordinary situations.

A mild-mannered reporter with almost 15 years experience as a general assignment reporter, features editor and graphic designer, Angela has also worked as a production assistant in TV and film. Learn more about her books at:

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Cover Reveal organized by Xpresso Book Tours

Interview and Giveaway Stranded (Alaskan Courage #3) by Dani Pettrey

Published September 1st, 2013

Description:

When her friend vanishes from a cruise ship, reporter Darcy St. James isn't satisfied with their explanation that she simply left her job of her own accord. Something isn't lining up, and Darcy believes the only way to find the truth is to put herself in Abby's position. Within days, Darcy learns her friend wasn't the only person to disappear mysteriously. Last summer, a woman vanished under almost identical circumstances. Gage McKenna has taken a summer-long stint leading adventure excursions for the passengers of various cruise lines that dock for a few days of sightseeing. He's surprised to find Darcy working aboard one of the ships, investigating a troubling report. Something sinister is going on and the deeper they dig the more Gage fears they've only discovered the tip of the iceberg.

MB's INTERVIEW

Thank you, Mrs. Dani Pettrey

Which is, in your opinion, the winning proportion of suspense, mystery and romance in, of course, romance suspense genre?

I would say the winning proportion is 50% mystery/suspense and 50% romance. I don't set out with those proportions in mind. I just write, but in the end that's how it seems to turn out, and I think that's what readers are looking for when they pick up a romantic suspense novel. 

I admit that I didn’t read (yet) your books so I’m very curious (reading their description, some reviews, your blog) why are they classified as Christian Fiction and how/where/why did you entwine the inspirational elements with mystery, suspense and romance?

My faith is such a big part of my life, it naturally became part of my stories. Some of my characters are Christians, some aren't. I just try to show how faith is played out in various ways through various characters. We all deal with questions of faith, hope, loss, grief, anguish, etc. I like to see my characters wrestle with those questions and emotions and I never have a set answer in mind. It's fun seeing where the characters end up and how they grow. 

What has been your biggest struggle writing Stranded? Is harder to write a sequel after your latest works were successful?

Actually, it's become easier in some ways to write the subsequent books in my Alaskan Courage series. I already know the characters well when I start. On the other hand, there is pressure there….wondering if the next story will come out as strong and if readers will enjoy it as much as the earlier books. 

Do you write as you go or do you have the book all planned out from the beginning? What if a new, great idea will change most of your work done?

I generally have a premise in mind, but then write as I go. If a great idea comes along, I'll trash everything I've done and start afresh. Writing the way I do gives me a lot of freedom and it makes the journey fun, but it does mean a lot of revisions. 

What makes a satisfying ending for you?

When every thread (romance, suspense, etc.) in the story is wrapped up in a way that makes senses and feels complete. 

Why Alaska?

I wanted a setting that worked well for a wide variety of adventures—everything from cave diving to heli-skiing. I also wanted a setting that had an inherent element of ruggedness and danger. Alaska seemed a perfect fit.

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Books in series:

About the author:

Dani Pettrey is a wife, homeschooling mom and author. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves–the thrill of adventure, nail-biting suspense, the deepening of one’s faith and plenty of romance. She’s a huge fan of dark chocolate, is always in search of the best iced mocha and her dream is to one day own a little cottage on a remote stretch of beach. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two teenage daughters.

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Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Ends 10/10/13

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Excerpt and Giveaway Trust Me by Anna Wells

Description:

Lawyer Alaina Simmons never imagined that she would be defending her deceased father against accusations of terrorism when she agreed to protect his legacy, a group of documents he’d placed in an archival repository. FBI Lawyer Donovan Prentice insists that her father and the organization he worked for were terrorists and that crucial evidence is in the documents Alaina has sworn to protect. Now she is forced to combat the FBI and her compelling attraction to Donovan Prentice while unaware that she is also Donovan’s suspect.

Special Agent Donovan Prentice is working undercover posing as a lawyer in an attempt to gain access to the evidence he needs to convict a group of terrorists as well as determine if Alaina Simmons is working with them. Things become complicated as Donovan becomes more intent on getting his suspect in bed than putting her in jail.

When the bullets start to fly and the lies begin to unravel Alaina and Donovan begin to explore their intensely sexual relationship, but the couple will have to learn to trust each other both in and out of bed before the terrorists’ game of intrigue can end.

 EXCERPT:

As she entered the lobby, Alaina felt prepared, confident and ready to do battle against almost anyone. Except she hadn't planned on doing battle with Mr. Drugstore, and that was exactly who was rising from the black leather couch to greet her saying, “Ms. Simmons, I'm Donovan Prentice, it appears we've met before.”

She felt the bottom drop out of her stomach. Alaina was sure that her shock must be apparent; normally she prided herself on her self-control but today's events seemed to be working against her. After all she had never experienced such a coincidence like this one before. She had met this man as a stranger and had flirted with him, completely unaware that she had an appointment with him later that day. She felt that their entire professional relationship had been compromised. As disconcerted as she felt, she was going to have to pretend that nothing had happened, and actually if she thought about it nothing really had happened. Their flirtation had been a little unusual but it hadn't gone beyond that. It was just that she never let business associates or clients see anything but the professional side of her personality, she had ensured this by making it a habit not to discuss her personal life with any of them. By meeting this man outside of the office, outside of her professional setting, she almost felt as if he had caught her undressed. Her only option now was to ignore the incident as if it had never happened and maintain her normal professional composure. Okay so maybe ignoring it was just going to make her look like a coward. She needed to face this situation head on.

Making up her mind to take control and not let Donovan get the upper hand since he didn't seem the least surprised to see her, she responded to his greeting with, “Yes, what a coincidence. It's nice to meet you, formally that is.”

She looked over at Marlene, who was indiscreetly staring at Donovan Prentice as if she had never seen a man before, not that Alaina could blame her. The man was impressive to say the least. “Marlene could you hold my calls?”

Marlene barely glanced her way as she continued to stare at the object of her attention but finally managed to respond, “Yes of course Ms. Simmons.”

Alaina glanced at her wryly. “Thanks, Marlene.” She returned her attention to Mr. Prentice who was waiting patiently. “If you’ll just follow me we can discuss the issue of the subpoena in my office.” She was determined to regain her equilibrium, but as she walked down the corridor with Donovan closely following behind her, she wondered if that was even a remote possibility. “Right this way Mr. Prentice.”

“Please call me Donovan. Is it all right if I call you Alaina?”

He's taking control again, Alaina simmered inwardly, but she responded without hesitation, “Please do.”

“I’m so glad I’ve a name to put to that beautiful face.”

She felt a thrill at his words as they entered the office. Alaina could not help but be aware of his overwhelming presence. She was feeling that same level of inexplicable excitement she had felt in the drugstore. Ignoring her jumbled emotions she tried to concentrate on the matter at hand. It was becoming pretty obvious that she needed to get laid if this guy made it so hard for her to concentrate. She might as well meet the problem head on.

She took a deep breath before saying, “Donovan. I’m just going to face the elephant in the room. When we met this morning I obviously had no idea who you were and if I had I wouldn’t have spoken to you the way that I did. Okay?”

Donovan was a little surprised but managed to hold back a laugh. “And what way was that?” His voice held that same sensual tone that it had in the drugstore.

Okay, so wow, his voice really turned her on. She felt slightly embarrassed, but what the hell he had flirted too. “Well, I was a bit flirtatious.”

He raised a brow and grinned. “A bit?”

“Cut me some slack, you were just as bad. Admit it.” Could that knowing grin of his get any bigger? She wasn’t sure why, but he was charming the hell out of her.

“As an officer of the court, I’m taking the fifth,” he said jokingly before adding, “I think this is a conversation we should pursue further once we’ve completed our business.” He paused a brief moment and looked at her intently. “And I would like to pursue it.”

The low timber of his voice caused her skin to tingle, and she felt her face flush in reaction. The idea certainly had merits she thought as she studied the hard plains of his face. God he was hot and he was making her hotter. She exhaled trying to calm herself before saying, “Do you think we can do that? Wouldn’t it be a conflict?”

He gave her a slight smile and there seemed to be a sparkle in those blue eyes as he said, “Yeah I think we can do that, but we have business to settle first.”

She nodded in agreement, hoping the meeting went smoothly and they could get back to the more interesting conversation. Wasn’t that a professional thought?

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About the author:

I’ m happily married with two children. I love to cook, hike, bike, and hang with my girlfriends. 

I’m an avid romance reader and enjoy all types of romance novels including historical, contemporary, paranormal, and erotica.
Oh and did I mention I have my own consulting business?

I obviously had a couple of hours left in the day so I began writing romance. I wanted to bring readers hot, sexy romances that are brought to life with compelling characters. Who knew writing romance could be as fun as reading it! 

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