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Victor and Eli started out as college roommates–brilliant, arrogant, lonely boys who recognized the same sharpness and ambition in each other. In their senior year, a shared research interest in adrenaline, near-death experiences, and seemingly supernatural events reveal an intriguing possibility: that under the right conditions, someone could develop extraordinary abilities. But when their thesis moves from the academic to the experimental, things go horribly wrong.
Ten years later, Victor breaks out of prison, determined to catch up to his old friend (now foe), aided by a young girl whose reserved nature obscures a stunning ability. Meanwhile, Eli is on a mission to eradicate every other super-powered person that he can find–aside from his sidekick, an enigmatic woman with an unbreakable will. Armed with terrible power on both sides, driven by the memory of betrayal and loss, the arch nemeses have set a course for revenge–but who will be left alive at the end?
About the Author:
V.E. Schwab is the author of The Near Witch, a YA fantasy from Disney Hyperion, as well as The Archived, the first book in a YA supernatural series, also from Disney Hyperion. The product of a British mother, a Beverly Hills father, and a Southern upbringing, Victoria has a penchant for tea and BBC shows, and a serious and well-documented case of wanderlust. Vicious is her first adult book.
Jennifer’s Review of Vicious
TITLE: Vicious
CHARACTERS: Victor, Eli and Sydney
AUTHOR: V.E. Schwab
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/24/13
NUMBER OF STARS: Five Stars
I was waiting patiently to get my hands on Vicious because everything that this author writes is amazing. Vicious tells the story of Victor and Eli, two intelligent, yet arrogant, college students who believe that they have the ability to become Extra-Ordinary individuals if they carefully create and experience near-death events. By coming back from the brink of death, they would develop supernatural abilities that would not only prove their thesis but put them in a higher class than those around them. Victor and Eli play with the delicate balance of their own lives and these events lead to tragedy and betrayal that will haunt them for years.
Vicious was such a great book for me because it reminded me so much of another novel, Frankenstein, that I still love after reading it so many years ago. Victor and Eli believed that by creating their own near-death experiences that they would achieve unbelievable power and used death to create a new life. By playing God, each of them had to deal with the tragic events that resulted, destroying a friendship and sending one character into the slow descent of madness. By becoming Extra-Ordinary, Eli believed that he had to right to get rid of others who had their own near-death experiences. Instead of becoming the hero he wanted to be, he in a way became a monster who had to be stopped before he harmed others. Now, Victor is on the hunt for his old friend and with each step that leads Victor to Eli, their story slowly unfolds in front of our eyes.
Vicious is an emotional thrill-ride about the consequences of life and death that is destined to become a literary classic. V.E. Schwab weaves a captivating tale that will haunt you well after you have finished reading the last page and I was sorry that we had to say goodbye to these characters. If Ms. Schwab isn’t on your list of authors to watch, she should be because every book is more amazing and thought-provoking than her last.
Why Jane Eyre Owned a Pencil. Probably Just One….
By Joanna Campbell Slan
Author of Death of a Schoolgirl
My most recent book, Death of a Schoolgirl, picks up where Charlotte Bronte’s original classic, Jane Eyre, left off. Readers who know that I also write two contemporary mystery series, often ask me, “Doesn’t that take a lot of research?”
The short answer is yes.
Although Bronte’s book was published in 1847, the story of the orphaned governess is actually set in the years 1818-1820. In the two centuries that have passed, people haven’t changed much. We still get up in the morning, get dressed, eat breakfast, and go about the business of loving, hating, and tolerating each other. But the world around us, the theatre in which we perform our lives, has changed dramtically, in large part because we enjoy such abundance.
Items we use every day, and discard without a second thought, were precious and hard to come by back in the Regency era. Take, for example, the ubiquitous lead pencil. Since Jane was an amateur artist with some talent for drawing and sketching, we might presume she owned one.
Yes, one.
Instead of buying pencils by the dozen, people in the early 1800s bought them one at a time. Unlike today’s pencils, these writing instruments of the past were neither bright yellow nor hexagonal. Both are modern enhancements. Today’s iconic yellow shaft was a nod to China, home of the best graphite in the world. And it was an American named Ebenezer Wood who crafted the first hexagonal and octagonal shapes to keep pencils from rolling off of desks.
Back then, a pencil didn’t automatically come with an eraser. Up until the year 1770, an author wishing to erase an errant mark grabbed bread crumbs and rubbed them onto her paper, hoping that they would remove the unwanted graphite. As with many inventions, the rubber eraser came about by accident. In this case, a British engineer named Edward Nairne grabbed a wodge of rubber gum and scrubbed away at this paper. Perhaps his sandwich was out of reach.
Some might find delving into ancient history tedious. Indeed, the more I learn, the more I realize how little I know, and so the process of writing can get terribly bogged down. But each exploration into the past leaves me feeling grateful for the many conveniences I enjoy every day. Conveniences I use, but too often take for granted.
About the Author:
Award-winning and National Bestselling author Joanna Campbell Slan is the creator of three mystery series, including the Kiki Lowenstein Mysteries (an Agatha Award Finalist) and a new series featuring Cara Mia Delgatto, a young woman who runs a recycling/repurposing shop.
The first book in Joanna’s historical romance mystery series, The Jane Eyre Chronicles, is Death of a Schoolgirl, winner of the 2013 Daphne du Maurier Award for Literary Excellence. In her past life, Joanna was a television talk show host, an adjunct professor of public relations, a sought-after motivational speaker, and a corporate speechwriter.
Visit Joanna’s website at www.JoannaSlan.com. See all her books at http://tinyurl.com/JoannaSlan. Follow her on Pinterest (www.Pinterest.com/JoannaSlan) Join the conversation at http://tinyurl.com/JCSlan Or communicate directly with her at JCSlan@JoannaSlan.com
Jennifer’s Review of Death of a Schoolgirl
TITLE: Death of a Schoolgirl
SERIES #: The Jane Eyre Chronicles
AUTHOR: Joanna Campbell Slan
PUBLICATION DATE: 08/07/12
BOOK SYNOPSIS: In her classic tale, Charlotte Bronte introduced readers to the strong-willed and intelligent Jane Eyre. Picking up where Bronte left off, Jane’s life has settled into a comfortable pattern: She and her beloved Edward Rochester are married and have an infant son. But Jane soon finds herself in the midst of new challenges and threats to those she loves…
Jane can’t help but fret when a letter arrives from Adele Varens–Rochester’s ward, currently at boarding school–warning that the girl’s life is in jeopardy. Although it means leaving her young son and invalid husband, and despite never having been to a city of any size, Jane feels strongly compelled to go to London to ensure Adele’s safety.
But almost from the beginning, Jane’s travels don’t go as planned–she is knocked about and robbed, and no one believes that the plain, unassuming Jane could indeed by the wife of a gentleman; even the school superintendent takes her for an errant new teacher. But most shocking to Jane is the discovery that Adele’s schoolmate has recently passed away under very suspicious circumstances, yet no one appears overtly concerned. Taking advantage of the situation, Jane decides to pose as the missing instructor—and soon uncovers several unsavory secrets, which may very well make her the killer’s next target…..
REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Jennifer NUMBER OF STARS: Four Stars
REVIEW: Jane Eyre has always been a wonderful book to me and one that I have read, time and time again. Death of a Schoolgirl picks up right after Jane Eyre left off and I was amazed how this book reminded me of visiting an old friend. The story starts with Jane finally settling down with Edward after the traumatic events of Jane Eyre. Edward is recuperating after losing his eye and Jane has been blessed with the birth of their young son, Ned. Adele is off at boarding school and her letters have been very succinct and worrisome since she has made no mention of the new addition to their family. When Adele’s recent letter uncovers a hidden message, Jane and Edward realize that something is wrong with her at school and Jane soon sets off to find answers. Along the way, Jane is robbed and mistaken for the new German teacher at the school which helps Jane to determine exactly what is happening at the school. She soon learns that Adele’s schoolmate has died under suspicious circumstances and Jane must find the culprit before anyone else gets hurt.
I loved this book and I really didn’t want it to end. I loved seeing what happened to Jane and Edward after the events of Jane Eyre and see how much her life has changed after she got married. Jane was always a great character to me and she just has grown into such a strong determined woman after everything that she had been through. I enjoyed the mystery in this book and I’m so glad that this is a start to a new series because I can’t wait to read more about these characters in future books.
Giveaway
I’m excited to give away a copy of Death of a Schoolgirl. This giveaway is for US Residents only. To be entered in the drawing by September 28th, answer me this question in the comments:
Which book do you consider to be a classic?
Can you please share with us a little about yourself
Jamie K. Schmidt has over thirty short stories in publication. Her romantic suspense novel UNDERCOVER LOVER, published by Musa Publishing, will be released September 13, 2013. THE QUEEN’S WINGS, book one of the Emerging Queens series, a paranormal dragon romance will be published by Entangled’s Edge line this fall. Book One of her contemporary romance series, INNER GODDESS, will be published by Random House’s Loveswept line June 2014.
Jamie holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the State University of New York at New Paltz in Secondary Education English. She’s also held various jobs as a call center manager, a Tupperware consultant, a paralegal, and finally a technical writer for a major corporation. She is an active member in the Romance Writers of America (RWA), serving as the President for her local chapter Connecticut Romance Writers of America (CTRWA).
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Have you always wanted to be an author?
Yes, ever since I was a little girl. My first novel attempt was in the fifth grade. I wrote about a family of dryer lint named The Fuzzies. I did my own artwork too. I self published a nonfiction book on Switzerland—also self illustrated. I was tickled to see my own catalog card in the library. When I was in middle school, I tried to tackle a Vietnam war novel called Blood and Brothers, about twins going to Vietnam. The first romance novel I wrote was “Sweet Southern Revenge.” It was heavily influenced by V.C. Andrews Flowers in the Attic Series. It’s probably best that manuscript has been forever lost.
What is your most interesting writing quirk?
I’m a big procrastinator. I work best when I have a deadline otherwise I start a bunch of books, get distracted or bored and never finish them. I’ve got at least five novels in different genres that I should finish. But I’ve got to finish the two books I’m contracted for first.
Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?
Undercover Lover: Her lips are sealed
When Reiki therapist Pamela Krupin is attacked by thugs who work for her client, a Russian mob boss, the boss orders his godson, Detective Drake Logan, to protect her. Their attraction flares across Pamela’s line in the sand: She will not violate her patient’s confidentiality. But when Drake’s godfather is murdered and Pamela is targeted, together they have to find out what the mob is really after.
Here’s an excerpt from it:
They stood up to leave when Vera brought over their checks. Drake took both of them and pulled out his wallet.
“You don’t have to do that,” she protested and tried to take her check from him.
“It’s the least I could do. Besides, it’s my pleasure to treat a beautiful woman to lunch. I usually get to buy hot dogs from the street vendor for me and my partner.”
“Well, thank you,” she said graciously and then impulsively kissed him on the cheek.
His face was smooth and warm. His cheek just having the slightest brush of whisker, unlike Ralphie whose beard was as riotous as the rest of his blond curls. Drake turned his head and their lips just missed brushing each other. There was a flicker of desire deep in her belly and her fingers itched to slide into his jacket and see if he had muscles to go with that suit.
Staring at his jaw, she wondered again why she was comparing him to Ralphie. Ralphie was her patient. It wouldn’t be ethical to be anything more. And this detective was a little too slick for her. Maybe it was the ponytail or him not taking off his sunglasses, but warning bells started to go off when he slid his finger down her chin and tilted it up so she was looking at her dual reflection in his sunglasses.
“Are you doing anything Friday night?” he asked.
“I’m working,” she said and stepped back. Just like that the spell was broken. She slung her purse over her shoulder. “Thank you again for lunch. Good luck with your search.”
“Stay safe,” he said and she felt his eyes on her as she walked out the back door
How did you come with the idea for this story?
I had a dual inspiration. The first was the movie Eastern Promises with Viggo Mortensen. I thought his Russian accent was mesmerizing and I was intrigued by the history of the Russian mob, most notably the vor v zakone. The other inspiration was the Reiki treatment I was undergoing. I found the mysticism and the energy work to be fascinating and it inspired my creativity.
Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?
I have a dragon paranormal romance series coming out from Entangled Publishing this fall, in which the fate of the dragon race revolves around a human woman who dreams of shifting into a dragon. The first book is called The Queen’s Wings and it’s due out in November 2013. I also have a contemporary romance series coming out early next year with Random House’s Loveswept line. The Couture Series revolves around an ex-stripper named Colleen who after inheriting a lot of money starts a secret sex society. In book one, Inner Goddess, Colleen’s strait-laced sister hides from her abusive boyfriend at what she thinks is a fashion house, but when she finds out the real purpose of Couture, she is shocked to discover that she can find true love amidst the bawdiness.
Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?
I’d like to meet Ilona Andrews (husband and wife writing team, Gordon & Ilona Andrews) because I love all of their series. The Kate Daniels one is my favorite. I was sorry to see the Edge series end. Their online serial novel was something to look forward to every week. And their holiday novellas are always a treat.
What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?
Write. Finish the damn book. Then start a new file on the computer and write a new story. Don’t ever stop writing. The more you write the better you get. Join a writer’s group. Writing is a lonely job and it helps to have friends and colleagues to go to for advice or even a shoulder to cry on.
Can you share with us something off your bucket list?
I would like to take my son to Disney World. I want to go on a Hawaiian cruise. I want to quit my day job and write full time. Those are the top three items on my bucket list.
What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
So. Many. Books! I’m looking forward to Duke of Midnight by Elizabeth Hoyt, Up from the Grave by Jeaniene Frost, Republic of Thieves by Scott Lynch, The Descent by Alma Katsu, and Barefoot by the Sea by Roxanne St. Clair.
Can you please share with us a little about yourself
I love books! And movies! And my four kids! Not necessarily in that order. 🙂 I love museums, they’re chalk full of inspiration for future projects.
Have you always wanted to be an author?
I think so, yes. My mom has found some of my very early work… They will not be published. LOL!
Are you a plotter or a punster or combo of both? And you explain the difference?
I have some amazing plotting friends. They use story boards and ‘acts’ and know exactly what should happen on what page. I can’t plot a story. I get bogged down in the details and feel like I’ve ‘written it’. Do I do make little notes when an idea resonates, yes! But I tend to write in order, with minimal plotting. So I’m a combo – all the way.
What is your most interesting writing quirk?
I’m kind of boring. I don’t have a lot of quirks… I guess I play my music a little loud. Okay, a lot loud. Like my neighbors complain about the noise level sometimes, but that’s it. 🙂 I’m trying to use headphones.
Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?
Hollywood Homecoming is my latest release. It’s a lovely, sweet contemporary romance about two funny, quirky characters that love with their whole hearts — while being surrounded by Hollywood. 🙂
How did you come with the idea for this story?
I’d ‘met’ Helen and Joseph in the previous Red Carpet books and loved the characters. It was a natural evolution – their story. It wasn’t as tortured or steamy as Hollywood Ever After or Hollywood Holiday, but it’s the perfect story for these characters. I think fans of the series will be happy – I am.
Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?
I’m finishing up my first Young Adult novel – and it’s awesome. I’m really proud of my big-city girl moving to a small town and falling for a cowboy story. After that, the third Loves of Olympus book is up.
Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?
Diana Gabaldon. I admire her work and respect her so much.
What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?
Write what’s in your heart. Take everything with a grain of salt. Be patient and get a thick skin. Remember it’s a business, so be professional. How’s that? 🙂
Can you share with us something off your bucket list.
I Must go to GREECE. Sooner would be better than later.
What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
Jolene Navarro’s Lone Star Holiday. Fighting Irish by Gina Maxwell
What is one book everyone should read before they die?
TOUGH one. I do love Outlander by Diana Gabaldon. Or I can shamelessly promote my books here…
What is your favorite time of year & why?
Autumn and winter. I love the change in seasons, the crisp air and turning leaves. In Texas, the two kind of run together so…
Who is your Celebrity crush? And what would you do if you ever meet them?
Oh, I have a few. Chris Hemsworth is rocking my world (and my muse for Apollo in my next Loves of Olympus book). If I ever met him, I would thank him for making Thor such an epic superhero movie. He embodies the God of Thunder, making something that could be cheesy into one of my all time favorites. Oh, and, that I think he’s really beautiful.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
THANK YOU for the interview. It was fun! 🙂
| B&N
Make-up artist to the stars. The favorite aunt. Dance teacher. Baby sister. Talented musician and song-writer.
Single.
Why did that word rank above the rest? Helen loved her family and understood they wanted her to have the real love they’d all found. It’s just that she’d found her someone special and learned to live without him. She’d been too young for the quirky, idealistic doctor-off to save the world-to notice. And, really, if she had it her way, he’d never know how she’d felt. Now, he was one of her best friends, a pen pal, losing him would be too much.
Seeing him at their parents wedding, Helen realizes the horrible truth: she still loves Joseph… which wouldn’t be so bad if she wasn’t in the situation she was in.
But she was. And her secret will change everything.
Will it destroy hope for a Hollywood happy ending too?
Today I have Kylie Logan here with us to discuss her new book, Chili Con Carnage, which is the first in a brand new series. Kylie Logan also writes as Casey Daniels for the Pepper Martin series, which is one of my favorite characters. I enjoyed her new character, Maxie, and I know this is a great start to the series.
1. Tell me about your new release.
Chili Con Carnage is book #1 of the new Chili Cook-Off mysteries. It features heroine Maxie Pierce who (thanks to a no-good, two-timin’ creep of a rock guitarist boyfriend) decides that she’s done, done, done with relationships. Besides, Maxie has more important things to think about. Her dad, famous chili spice purveyor Texas Jack Pierce, is missing, and Maxie and her half-sister, Sylvia, have been called in to run his Hot-Cha Chili Seasoning Palace as it makes the rounds on the chili cook-off circuit.
In a perfect world and a perfect family, that might not be a bad thing. But Maxie and Sylvia have hated each other since the day Maxie’s mother stole Jack from Sylvia’s mom. Now, Sylvia handles the day-to-day business of the Palace while Maxie dons a gigantic red chili pepper costume and dances out front as the Chili Chick.
Things get even more complicated when Maxie finds the body of a roadie and Sylvia is arrested for murder. Truth? Maxie actually thinks about letting her half-sister languish in prison. That is, until her better self kicks in and she decides to investigate and find the real killer. Then she can get back to finding her father.
2. Where did you come up with the idea for this series?
I credit my agent, Gail Fortune, for sparking this idea. We were talking and I mentioned to her that my husband had just won a chili cook-off (he’s a great chili cook!). Gail’s reaction was immediate. “Chili?’ she said. “That would be a great idea for a mystery series!”
3. Did you have to do any research for this compared to your other books?
No matter how easy any idea looks to me from the outside, I always have to do plenty of research once I’m writing a book. Chili Con Carnage is set in Taos, New Mexico and I’ve been there so that part was simple. But of course, there’s the whole cooking part of the book and how real chili cook-offs work figured into it, too. A celebrity chef makes an appearance…and I needed to know how cable cooking shows work. And then there are RVs. Maxie and Sylvia have one so they can travel from cook-off to cook-off and I’ll tell you what, I didn’t know a thing about RVs!
4. Which authors do you feel have been a big influence on you as a writer?
There are so many! I’ve always loved the writing of the late, great Elizabeth Peters (and her alter-ego Barbara Michaels). I also enjoy the books of Alan Bradley who writes the Flavia de Luce mysteries. The first-person voice of those books is astonishing and always reminds me how important characterization is to any book. Then, of course, there is the influence of so many writing friends who’ve shared their time and their talents discussing ideas and brainstorming plots. Too many to name!
5. What are you working on now?
At the moment, I’m finishing up book #2 in the Chili Cook-Off series. It’s called “Death by Devil’s Breath” and is about a contest for the world’s hottest chili. That sounds easy but of course in Maxie’s world, nothing is, especially when the cook-off is in Las Vegas and the suspects in a murder are a cast of characters that include a magician, a jazz musician, a diva and a wedding chapel owner!
That’s what I’m working on, but there are other books coming out. In December, “Buttoned Up,” book #4 of my Button Box mystery series and in February, “A Tale of Two Biddies,” book #2 of my League of Literary Ladies mysteries.
6. What was the first book you ever wrote?
I started my career writing historical romance and my first book was “Twilight Secrets,” written under the name of Constance Laux. It’s out of print, but readers can find it on Kindle along with 7 others of my historical romance.
Lightning Round:
Favorite Food?
You know, I actually had to stop and think! I love couscous and veggies of all kinds and really good ribs. Ice cream…yum!
Morning person or Night Owl?
In between! I don’t stay up really late, but I don’t jump out of bed at dawn, either!
Favorite Candy?
Snickers
The one TV show you have to watch every week?
Have to? Not a one! But I do DVR a few and try to keep up: “Bones,” “Ghost Adventures” and “Downton Abbey” of course!
Thank you so much for answering my questions.
Thank you for inviting me, Jennifer! Let me also mention that readers can check out both my websites: www.kylielogan.com and www.caseydaniels.com
About the Author:
Kylie Logan has loved mysteries since she was a kid. Her dad was a Cleveland Police detective and he introduced her to Sherlock Holmes stories and gave her investigating experience when on his days off, they’d pile into the car and hit the streets to look for stolen cars. When he retired from the force, Dad became head of security for the Cleveland Public Library.
Crooks and books! Kylie comes by her love of mysteries honestly.
Kylie began her career writing historical romance and her book, “Devil’s Diamond” was nominated for a RITA award as historical romance of the year by Romance Writers of America. She’s also written contemporary romance (as Connie Lane), young adult horror (as Zoe Daniels and Connie Laux) and she writes the popular Pepper Martin Mysteries as Casey Daniels.
Kylie is currently writing three different mystery series: the Button Box Mysteries (newest book is “Panic Button”), the League of Literary Ladies mysteries (Mayhem at the Orient Express) and now, the Chili Cook-Off mysteries. She can’t pass up an antique shop…there might be buttons in there! She can’t put down a classic book . . . even if she already knows the story. And she can’t say no to a good bowl of chili. Luckily, her husband is the world’s greatest chili maker.
When she’s not writing, she’s usually with her family and their two dogs, Ernie, an adorable Airedale, and Oscar, a rescued Jack Russell who came for a short-term stay and ten years later, is still around. Kylie says that those of you who have ever met/lived with/had dealings with a Russell will certainly understand how knowing him has increased her propensity for murder.
Jennifer’s Review of Chili Con Carnage
TITLE: Chili Con Carnage
SERIES #: A Chili Cook-Off Mystery
CHARACTERS: Maxie Pierce, Sylvia and Nick
AUTHOR: Kylie Logan
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/1/13
BOOK SYNOPSIS: Romance is supposed to be the spice of life. But Maxie Pierce is so done with bad relationships–well, almost. She just has to get rid of the latest loser, Roberto. Besides, she has more important things to worry about. Her daddy, Texas Jack Pierce, king of the chili cook-off circuit, has been missing for nearly six weeks now. In his place, she must team up with her irritating half sister, Sylvia, to promote the family business at the Taos Chili Showdown, to be judged by celebrity chef Carter Donnelly.
But when Maxie discovers Roberto’s body in the chef’s trailer–only hours after publicly breaking up with him while wearing a giant red chili pepper costume–she suddenly finds she’s the one in the spotlight as the police pepper her with questions. Now this Chili Chick needs to kick up the search to catch the real killer and get back to finding her father……
REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Jennifer NUMBER OF STARS: Four Stars
REVIEW: I’m a big fan of Kylie’s other series, the Pepper Martin mysteries and Chili Con Carnage is off to a great start. Maxie Pierce is a cute heroine with a lot of attitude and has had her share of bad relationships. She is working on the chili cook-off circuit with her half-sister, Sylvia, when she discovers the body of Roberto who just happened to fall out of the celebrity chef’s RV. Maxie had one miserable date with Roberto but now she is determined to find the killer because her sister, Sylvia, has been arrested for his murder.
I thought this was a great little mystery and I enjoyed learning about the chili cook-off circuit. I wasn’t sure if I was going to like to Maxie in the beginning but she definitely started to grow on me and I can’t wait to read more about her in future books. There is a possible love interest for Maxie with Nick, the security guard for the chili cook-off so it will be fun to see where that goes. Fun mystery and a great start to the series.
Giveaway
I’m excited to give away a copy of Chili Con Carnage. This giveaway is for US Residents only. To be entered in the drawing by September 28th, answer me this question in the comments:
What is your favorite spicy food?
9.16.13
Book Blast: Maple Crossing by Edwin G Rice
JD Tyler
Kelly reviews First Surrender by Katie Reus
9.17.13
Sarah Castille
Kelly reviews She Can Scream by Melinda Leigh
9.18.13
Interivew & Giveaway with Rebecca York
Winter Romance Wednesday! Kimberly reviews The Sugar Cookie Sweetheart Swap by Donna Kauffman
9.19.13
Gina Lamm
Kimberly reviews Midnight Lies by Ella Grace
9.20.13
Melinda Leigh
Kimberly reviews The Night Is Forever by Heather Graham
9.21.13
SINsational Saturday Series
Hearts of the Anemoi #1
While attempting to escape the agonizing memories she associates with Christmas, twenty-nine-year-old widow Megan Snow builds a snow family outside the mountain cabin she once shared with her husband-and collapses in tears against the snowman at the sight of what she’ll never have.
Called to life by the power of Megan’s tears, snow god Owen Winters appears unconscious on her doorstep in the midst of a raging blizzard. As she nurses him to health, Owen finds unexpected solace in her company and unimagined pleasure in the warmth of her body, and vows to win her heart for a chance at humanity.
Megan is drawn to Owen’s mismatched eyes, otherworldly masculinity, and enthusiasm for the littlest things, and her heart opens enough to believe he’s a Christmas miracle. But this miracle comes with an expiration-before the snow melts and the temperature rises, Megan must let go of her widow’s grief and learn to trust love again, or she’ll lose Owen forever.
Hearts of the Anemoi #2
Betrayal is all he’s ever known, but in her, he’ll find a love strong enough to be trusted…
When Marcella Raines’ twin brother dies, she honors his request to be buried at sea, never expecting the violent storm that swamps her boat. Though she’s gravely injured–and still emotionally damaged from her recent divorce–Ella fights to survive.
Zephyros Martius is the Supreme God of the West Wind and Spring, but being the strongest Anemoi hasn’t protected him from betrayal and loss. Worse, he’s sure his brother Eurus is behind it. When Zeph’s heartbreak whips up a storm that shipwrecks a human, his guilt forces him to save her.
Ella is drawn to the vulnerability Zeph hides beneath his otherworldly masculinity and ancient blue eyes. And her honesty, empathy, and unique, calming influence leave Zeph wanting…everything. When Eurus threatens Ella, she and Zeph struggle to let go of the past, defend their future, and embrace what they most want–a love that can be trusted.
Hearts of the Anemoi #3
She’s the only one who can see through his golden boy façade to the broken god within…
Chrysander Notos, Supreme God of the South Wind and Summer, is on a mission: save Eurus from his death sentence and prove his troubled brother can be redeemed. But Eurus fights back, triggering vicious summer storms that threaten the mortal realm, dangerously drain Chrys, and earn the ire of the Olympic gods who ordered Eurus dead.
Laney Summerlyn refuses to give up her grandfather’s horse farm, despite her deteriorating vision. More than ever, she needs the organized routine of her life at Summerlyn Stables, until a ferocious storm brings an impossible—and beautiful—creature crashing down from the heavens.
Injured while fighting Eurus, Chrys finds himself at the mercy of a mortal woman whose compassion and acceptance he can’t resist. As they surrender to the passion flaring between them, immortal enemies close in, forcing Chrys to choose between his brother and the only woman who’s ever loved the real him
Hearts of the Anemoi #4
Release day April 22, 2014
Annalise Fallston made peace with postponing her big-city dreams to care for her ill father, but lately she’s been filled with a restlessness not even her beloved painting dispels. Worse, the colors don’t speak to her as they always have, and all her efforts produce dark, foreboding images of a dangerous man and a terrifying future.
Devlin Eston, black-souled son of the evil Anemoi Eurus, is the only one who can thwart his father’s plan to overthrow the Supreme God of Wind and Storms. But first, Dev must master the unstable powers he’s been given. Distrusted and shunned by his own divine family, he never expected to find kindness and passion in the arms of a mortal.
But Devlin’s love puts Annalise in the path of a catastrophic storm, and in the final Armageddon showdown between the Anemoi and Eurus, sacrifices will be made, hearts broken, and lives changed forever…or lost
Series: She Can…, Book 1
Publisher: Montlake Romance
Publication date: November 28, 2011
One bad decision turned a single mom into a fugitive.
Ten months ago, Elizabeth Baker uncovered a dangerous secret about her politician husband—a secret that nearly got her killed. Now she and her children are running for their lives. When Beth is hired as the caretaker of a remote Pennsylvania estate, she dares to hope she has found a corner of the world where Congressman Richard Baker can’t find them. But when her new boss dies suddenly and his nephew inherits the estate, Beth is faced with outwitting a former homicide detective who is very smart, very suspicious—and very attractive.
Forced into retirement by an injury and grieving the loss of his uncle, Jack O’Malley is unprepared to share his new home with a strange woman and her two kids. He is even less prepared for the instantaneous attraction he feels whenever Beth enters the room. She is beautiful, intelligent, kind…and obviously terrified of someone or something. As Jack’s investigation uncovers the shocking details of Beth’s past, the rural community is shaken by the murder of a local woman Driven by instinct and desire, Jack is determined to keep Beth and her children safe, even if doing so means putting his heart—and his life —on the line.
Series: She Can…, Book 2
Publisher: Montlake Romance
Publication date: December 4, 2012
A horse trainer’s homecoming turns deadly when a vicious stalker, a cold murder case, and a hot police chief threaten to expose family secrets that a killer wants to keep buried.
After a terrible accident ends her riding career, horse trainer Rachel Parker returns to her hometown to a hostile welcome. Her efforts to rebuild the family farm are hampered by her sister’s domestic crisis and a violent vandal who threatens Rachel’s new business and her life. She is also blindsided by the undeniable and unwanted attraction she feels for hot police chief handling her case. Someone is systematically trying to destroy her. Someone who knows private things about her. Someone who’s been watching her…
As his investigation uncovers the turbulent past Rachel keeps carefully hidden, Police Chief Mike O’Connell finds himself with too many suspects and too many feelings for his fiercely independent victim. His desire for Rachel is a conflict of interest that jeopardizes everything he stands for. Long buried family secrets, a skeleton, and a corrupt local official with a grudge against Mike complicate the case, but the escalating violence against Rachel convinces him he doesn’t have much time. Whoever is watching Rachel wants her dead. Mike and Rachel race to untangle a web of deceit and lies that stretches twenty-five years into the past—before her stalker strikes again.
Series: She Can…, Book 3
Publisher: Montlake Romance
Publication date: September 17, 2013
Pre-Order Link: Amazon
In one moment, high school teacher and single mother Brooke Davenport interrupts a vicious assault, saves a young woman’s life, and attracts the attention of a serial killer.
Sixteen years ago, Brooke lost her roommate to a brutal murder. Now she teaches women’s self-defense, still trying to heal from the guilt and grief that plague her. Convinced the predator knows his victims and is stalking his prey online, she is determined to find him before he strikes again. Her brother’s friend, Luke has the computer expertise to help. But Brooke’s unexpected desire for Luke complicates her investigation, and her fixation with the case provokes a deadly reaction from the killer.
Injured in terrorist bombing overseas, computer expert Luke Holloway is still haunted by flashbacks of his young assistant’s death in the explosion. But Luke can’t refuse the request of a deployed friend to look after his sister, Brooke. Taking on responsibility for Brooke’s safety threatens Luke’s tenuous recovery, especially after he develops feelings for her that transcend a promise to a friend. When Brooke saves a young girl from a brutal assault and becomes a killer’s obsession, Luke vows to protect her at all costs.
*****
Make sure to check out my review of SHE CAN SCREAM here
*****
Series: She Can…, Book 4
Publisher: Montlake Romance
Publication date: March 25, 2014
Pre-Order Link: Amazon
From the moment Officer Ethan Hale pulls Abby Foster from icy waters, he senses there’s more to her than meets the eye. Abby has no memory of the accident that submerged her car in the frozen river. Three years ago, Abby was kidnapped and abandoned in a well for a week. The botched police investigation nearly killed her. Abby had moved to the mountains of Pennsylvania for a fresh start, but when it becomes clear that this car crash wasn’t an accident, she knows the violence from her past has caught up with her.
But Abby’s former assailant was convicted and imprisoned, so who else wants her dead?
Ethan uncovers a fresh string of murders tied to Abby’s past. Someone is trying to kill her, and this time the stalker seems determined to finish the task. As the killer grows bolder, Abby begins to trust Ethan enough to share the truth, her heart, and her life. But to stop the murders, Ethan must make a decision that could jeopardize it all.
A little about Melinda Leigh:
Melinda Leigh is a fully recovered banker. A life-long lover of books, she started writing when her youngest child entered first grade as a way to preserve her sanity. in 2007, she joined Romance Writers of America, learned a few things about writing a book, and decided the process was way more fun than analyzing financial statements. It was time to get serious about making her hobby a career. She began submitting her work in 2008. In 2009 she signed with an agent, who sold Melinda’s debut romantic suspense novel, SHE CAN RUN, in 2010 to Montlake Romance.
SHE CAN RUN released in November 2011 and became the #1 Bestseller in Kindle Romantic Suspense. SHE CAN RUN has been nominated for a 2012 Thriller Award for Best First Novel.
Melinda is also an avid martial artist. She holds a 2nd degree black belt in Kenpo Karate, studies Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and teaches women’s self-defense. She lives in a messy house in the suburbs with her husband, two teenagers, a couple of dogs and one neurotic cat with an inexplicable fear of ceiling fans. With such a pleasant life, she has no explanation for the sometimes dark and disturbing nature of her imagination
To find out more about Melinda and her books you can connect with her online:
Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads
GRAND PRIZE: $25 Amazon card, plus a signed copy of SHE CAN SCREAM
RUNNER-UP: a signed cop of either SHE CAN RUN or SHE CAN TELL
Melinda Leigh’s SHE CAN SCREAM
Tour Schedule – 9/13 – 9/28
9/13-Book Monster Reviews (spotlight & excerpt??)
http://www.bookmonsterreviews.com/
9/14- So Many Reads (series spotlight)
9/15- Romance Junkies (interview)
http://www.romancejunkies.com/rjblog/
9/16- The Reading Café (interview)
http://www.thereadingcafe.com/
9/18- Musings From An Addicted Reader (series spotlight & review)
http://musingsfromanaddictedreader.blogspot.com/
9/18- Just Romantic Suspense (guest post)
http://www.justromanticsuspense.com/
9/19- KT Book Reviews (series spotlight & review)
http://ktbookreviews.blogspot.com/
9/20- Books-n-Kisses (series spotlight, excerpt & review)
http://www.books-n-kisses.com/
9/21- Intoxicated by Books (series spotlight & review)
http://intoxicatedbybooks.blogspot.com/
9/22- United by Books (series spotlight)
http://unitedbybooks.blogspot.com/
9/23- Book Lovin’ Mamas (interviews, spotlight & review)
9/24- Cocktails & Books (series spotlight)
http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com/
9/25- Romancing the Book (interview)
http://romancing-the-book.com/
9/26- LITERAL ADDICTION (series spotlight & review)
http://www.literaladdiction.com/
9/26- Deal Sharing Aunt (series spotlight)
http://www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/
9/27- Night Owl Reviews (interview)
http://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Blog/Articles/Checking-In-With-Melinda-Leigh-July-2013
9/28- Tiffy-Fit’s Reading Corner (series spotlight & review)
http://www.tiffyfit.blogspot.com
Books-n-Kisses is super excited to welcome Rebecca York to the blog for the first time. We are talking about her newest book “Bad Nights”.
Rebecca, can you please share with us a little about yourself
RY: I started writing romances in the early eighties when they first became “the next big thing” and quickly found out that I needed more of a plot to keep my interest—which is why I write romantic suspense. Luckily, dumb little eighteen-year-old me was smart enough to marry the right guy. He loves being married to a writer, always supports my career, and loves going to conferences with me. He takes care of all the business stuff I hate, and I keep his clothes clean, cook for him, and manage all the tasks he hates, like gardening. We’ve got two kids. One’s a Foreign Service Officer and the other is a librarian turned massage therapist. Our three cats sit on our laps when we’re trying to work at the computer.
Have you always wanted to be an author?
RY: I always loved making up stories, but I thought I could never be a writer because I’m dyslexic and can’t spell. My husband takes care of that for me. I started my career writing for a local newspaper, but I did want to write fiction. I couldn’t imagine writing anything as long as a whole book, so I began with a kids’ science fiction novel. It’s not easier to write for kids, but it’s shorter.
Can you share with us your typical writing day. Is there anything you have to have while writing?
RY: I get up, feed the fish, and get myself a cup of coffee. I read the paper and the news online, check e-mail and browse my social media sites until I realize it’s almost lunchtime, and I haven’t written anything. Then I get to work and write ten pages. If I haven’t done them, I may still be working until ten p.m.
Most challenging or rewarding part of writing?
RY: I love getting a synopsis finished. I hate looking at a blank screen, and I like editing best.
Can you please tell us about your latest book?
RY: My latest book is Bad Nights in which a hard-bitten Navy SEAL, Jack Brandt, and a woman college professor, Morgan Rains, go up against an evil militia leader and his men. Jack and Morgan seem totally unsuited for each other, but as they escape through the woods, evading the bad guys, they come to trust and respect each other. It’s the story of two people falling in love against a background of suspense and danger.
How did you come up with the idea for this story?
RY: I wanted to find a plot that would lean on the talents of a Navy SEAL. I saw two people escaping through the wilderness, having to work together to survive. Of course, that turned out to be only part of the book. I also had to deal with how Jack and Morgan react to each other when they get back to civilization and what happens when she is kidnapped by the bad guys. By that time, Jack has fallen in love with Morgan and will do anything to save her.
Can you share with us your current work in progress?
RY: Every since I saw the movie, The Naked Jungle, I wanted to write a book with a virgin hero who was effective in every way except that he wasn’t quite sure how to cope with a wife. The Naked Jungle’s set in the Amazon in the 1800’s. To make a virgin hero plausible, I knew I couldn’t write a contemporary. So I wrote Nightfall as science fiction romance set on a dangerous planet far in the future that was colonized only by men and their sons. I’ve had a lot of fun writing it. I’m editing it now, and it will be out in October.
Who are some of your favorite authors?
RY: Ken Follett, Clive Cussler, Lee Child, Mary Jo Putney, Lisa Kleypas
Do you feel that any of your favorite authors have inspired your writing style?
RY: I read Ken Follett’s Key to Rebecca just as I was starting to write romantic suspense, and I loved the way he wove a romance and a suspense plot together. I’ve written a lot of werewolf books, and two of them got me into the field—Darker than You Think by Jack Williamson and The Wolf’s Hour, by, Robert McCammon. But most of McCammon’s books were too hard-core horror for me to enjoy. Again, his The Wolf’s Hour was a great blend of suspense and romance. I think of my actual style as unadorned—pretty straightforward without dwelling a lot on the description of the characters. I’m more interested in what’s going on emotionally with them than how they look.
Open your book to a random page and tell us what’s happening.
RY: Okay, I’ve turned to the page where Jack and Morgan are wet and cold and have to share a sleeping bag in a cave, and he can’t stop himself from getting turned on.
What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
RY: I want to read the next book in Marcus Sakey’s Brilliance series, but he hasn’t written it yet. I also want to read the next book after The Fifth Wave, by Rick Yancey, but that’s also not out yet. And I just bought the second and third books in Hugh Howey’s Wool series. I’ll read them next.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
RY: Yes, if someone who was constantly bullied by her teachers for her awful spelling can become a writer, anyone can. I love my life as a writer. I get to make up stories for a living, and I can work at home which means I can putter around the house and garden when I want. (I just went away to pull weeds for fifteen minutes.) I can also get up and start a pot of soup or bake lasagna while I’m in the middle of my workday.
by REBECCA YORK
N STORES SEPTEMBER 2013
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Books-a-Million | IndieBound | Chapters/Indigo | iBookstore |Sourcebooks
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Rebecca York’s newest series will keep you on the edge of your seat
When Professor Morgan Rains goes out to investigate a strange sound coming from her backyard, the last thing she expects to see is a naked man covered with burns and bruises. Jack Brandt is a former Navy SEAL on an undercover mission, and he’s barely managed to escape from a terrorist militia’s torture. Jack and Morgan are thrown into a pressure cooker of danger and intrigue, and they soon find themselves falling in love. When Morgan is captured by the terrorists, Jack must rescue the woman whose life now means more to him than his own.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Rebecca York’s writing has been compared to Dick Francis, Sherrilyn Kenyon and Maggie Shayne. Her books have been translated into twenty-two languages and optioned for film. She lives in Maryland, near Washington, D.C., which is often the setting of her romantic suspense novels. Rebecca’s next romantic suspense novel from Sourcebooks Casablanca, Betrayed, will be in stores in July 2014. For more information, please visit http://rebeccayork.com/.
I warmly remember being asked what my favorite summer memory was every year during the first week of school. One summer memory has been my favorite since I was ten years old.
Every summer my brother and I spent a great deal of time at our Great Aunt’s farm. We would get to take care of the horses and on Saturday mornings we would receive riding instructions from the neighboring farm’s son. Scott was his name and to this day he is one of the most handsome men I have ever met (childhood crushes are the best and worst).
Anyway one Saturday he led us to a pond a few miles from the farm. Scott guided us along trails and until we ended up in a clear landing with a large pond but our ride did not stop there. Assuredly riding ahead of us, he continued the ride into the water. He rode and his horse happily waded in the water, wetting his legs, belly, then both sides of his chest as Scot’s feet touched the water.
Imagine our shock at seeing him become engulfed by the pond. The horse and Scott sank in one sudden swoop into the merky pond water. My brother and I gasped when all we saw above water were two heads. Scott arms poked out of the water revealing his hands grasping his horse’s mane. Once we realized the horse was actually swimming with Scott, my little brother and me started giggling and anxiously wanted to join our instructor. After a few moments of nerves, I slowly felt my horse’s unsure progression downward. Slowly he stepped into the water, the sensation of the cool water rising up my legs with each movement. I turned and looked over my shoulder noticing my brother following. My horse was no longer waiting for me to lead, no the horse was enjoying the cool water on a hot summer’s day. Before I knew it I was fully emerged into the pond and my horse was swimming.
I have bungee jumped, skied, and mountain climbed since then but nothing has ever felt as thrilling as trusting this large animal to swim me to the other side of the pond. Maybe it is because I was ten years old and my memories are inflated. It doesn’t really matter that summer swimming with horses was and is my favorite summer memory.
The Art of Safkhet Presents
(The Myth Series)
Zakah Sange was born into a world of dark magick, always living in the shadows of his father, the Raka King. He was dangerously sexy and enigmatic; he used power and control to shape himself into a hard and cunning man. Zakah became a warrior, a weapon and the master of his own violence lurking within.
Sorina Ruzicka was the great granddaughter of the evil god Akhekh. She was born into a legacy of magickal gifts that she wanted no part of. After years touring as a blues singer she returned home where she only wanted the seclusion of the mountains. A chance meeting with the mysterious club owner forced Sorina into the battle of her life.
Can a willful witch, accept the controlling nature of a demon who demands submission? Trusts will be tested, lines will be crossed and a fate neither of them expected will be played out.
Available in Print and Ebook: Purchase Link: Amazon
CHAPTER THREE
Outside her cottage, the wind rose and whirled fiendishly. Rain pelted at her windows. Sorina wrapped her arms around her up drawn knees, resting her head on them. She felt his emotions. She sensed his need and what he wanted her to understand, but she didn’t understand.
“Sorina.” Zakah made sure his voice was warm, sensual, caressing, velvety, and soothing. “Don’t try to understand, my little rabbit.” He could feel her anguish even though she tried to hide it with her stubborn chin and defiant eyes.
A shadow flickered from a candle. Her eyes followed the shadow. She gasped up at his tall, dark, well-muscled frame which appeared out of nowhere. Sorina stammered, looking up at him towering over her. “What are you doing here?”
She looked like a scared rabbit. He never felt regret or pity, but to know he was the cause of her fear broke his heart. Zakah couldn’t stop himself; he did something he had never done in all his long years. He wanted to give comfort, take away her fears. Zakah gathered her into his arms, imprisoning her against his hard chest. “Breathe, Sorina. It will help.”
She pushed against the wall of his chest. “Let go of me. I am not a child who needs to be cradled or spanked.” She emphasized the last word.
Zakah ignored her struggle to pull away from him. He held her close to his chest, his hand stroking over her back slowly. He buried her face in the wealth of her luxurious hair, breathing in the sweet scent of citrus.
Sorina found the strength to pull back from his embrace. “I saw you. I felt you when you were using that rod on that woman. You were imagining she was me.” Her breath caught in her throat when he threaded his fingers through her hair. Zakah gripped her scalp in his strong hands, yanking her head back and the look in his eyes seared her to the bones.
He lowered his head, his mouth inches from her plump lips, so that she could feel the warmth of his breath on her skin. “Yes, I did imagine she was you. I wanted her to be you. I needed her to be you.”
Sorina was silent. She started to tremble in his arms. He knew his words were beginning to sink in. Zakah took in the sad shadows and fear lingering in her large, golden green eyes.
Her heart was pounding. “I want you to leave.” She pushed at the wall of his chest.
He merely tightened his hold on her. Zakah could not hide the bit of enjoyment he was getting from her struggle. “You do not want me to go, Sorina.”
“Yes, I want you to go, Zakah.” His smug look of amusement infuriated her, making her work to keep her voice under control.
“You are safe with me, Sorina. I would not allow anyone or anything to harm you.”
She swallowed nervously, whispering defiantly, “Just you.”
Author Bio
Stacy (SAM) was born in West Virginia but now finds herself living in Texas. She has loved writing since the first grade when she completed her first book, The Land without Rules. Her mother will tell you it was a brilliant book.
Throughout her school years she was in journalism and has been an avid reader of all literature. She has always craved the feeling of discovering an author’s world for the first time. Now she devotes her time to creating her own worlds. Stacy focuses mainly on paranormal romance and poetry. She loves creating dominant male characters and headstrong females for her books.
Stacy now finds herself on a new journey and finally has taken the leap to go after her dreams. She recently finished a poetry book, Whispers in the Dark with two fellow authors and finished her first novel Blood Myth in her Myth Series.
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