Author: Kelly

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Series Spotlight of Dannika Dark’s Mageri Series

STERLING

Available on Amazon: CLICK HERE

Zoë Merrick lived an ordinary life until late one night, she was brutally attacked and left for dead.

A man named Adam spotted her running down the road covered in blood, and took her under his wing. Zoë didn’t just survive that night – she underwent a physical transformation and acquired strange new abilities. Severed from her old life, her frustration grows as she tries to comprehend what’s happening to her.

Serendipity leads her to Justus. He’s handsome, arrogant, and not entirely human. Zoë learns the truth about what she is and where she truly belongs. This world is dangerous for a young Mage and the only way she’ll understand her power is by putting her trust in this man, and accepting the protection he offers.

When her immortal freedom is threatened by the one man who has a right to claim her, Zoë learns the price of freedom…and the value of loyalty.


Excerpt: 
God and the devil took a vacation that night, leaving me alone with the shadow of death. My eyes widened in a last attempt to hold me to the waking world. The universe silenced and I felt a million light years of elegance shining on me. A tear spilled out; one that held the entire contents of my life as the last heartbeat stilled my mortal remains.

TWIST

Available on Amazon: CLICK HERE

Months after moving to the mysterious city of Cognito, Silver is developing her gifts as a Mage and learning how to live under new laws. She is forced to give up her old life and live in secret among the humans. There is finally hope of leading an ordinary life . . . until Logan Cross walks into it.

Their chance meeting leads her close to discovering the identity of the nameless Mage who once stole her light and discovered the unique power she possesses. That knowledge poses an unimaginable threat to Silver, fueling her search to find out who he is, before he finds her first.

Lives are at stake. Truths are revealed. And an unexpected passion ignites.

Excerpt: 

My lips wanted to obey, and I knew it was wrong. An internal battle was ensuing—instinct vs. common sense—two dominant forces at the root of all decisions.

His breath over my mouth whispered, “Kiss me, little raven.”
Common sense got its ass kicked.
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Interview & Giveaway with Marie-Nicole Ryan

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Marie-Nicole Ryan to the blog for her first visit.

Marie-Nicole, can you please share with us a little about yourself

I’m an old broad, and many times I’ve wished I’d started writing in my twenties instead of my *clears throat* forties. Okay, so I didn’t start until I was in my fifties.

I live alone except for my precious Sheltie, Cassie. I sold my house in Nashville in October of 2010 and moved back to western Kentucky to help out my mom who can no longer see well enough to drive. I’ve really enjoyed reconnecting with my old friends from high school and nursing school.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Yes. Actually, I started my first book back in the late Seventies, but that was still in the days of typewriters. My hat’s off to all those who persevered and wrote on typewriter.

Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?

I love Annie Solomon’s romantic suspense novels. Janet Evanovich I read for the pure entertainment. I love the Late Robert B. Parker’s Spenser and Jesse Stone novels. As for influence, I think every author I’ve ever read has influenced me in some small way.

How did you get into writing in this specific genre?  Have you ever thought about writing in a different genre?

Currently I’m writing in two genres: spicy romantic suspense and erotic historical western romance. I love putting suspense and romance elements together, and that’s what I read more of. My foray into historical western romance was influenced by HBO’s Deadwood. I loved that series and was really PO’d when it was cancelled with so much more story to tell.

What are some of your writing rituals?

For serious writing, it’s a candle and classical music in the background, and of course, my butt in the chair.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

That would be Taming Talia (released on 8/14/12). It’s an erotic historical western set in 1889 New Mexico Territory during the blizzard of 1889. It’s the second book in my Loving the Lawman series. Seducing the Sheriff was the first.

How did you come up with the idea for this story?

Jared Fields, the Pinkerton agent, was a secondary character from the first book in the Loving the Lawman series. He was such a compelling character that he demanded his own story and heroine, of course.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

Currently, I’m supposed to be working on the third in the series, Mastering the Marshal.

What would you be if you were not an author?

Retired!

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

I have literally dozens of books to read on my Kindle Fire. So many books, so little time. I’m waiting, because I have no choice, for B.J. Daniels’s Justice at Cardwell Ranch, her October release and follow up to Crime Scene at Cardwell Ranch, which is the first book of hers I read.

Learn more about Marie here:

Web site: http://marienicoleryan.com

Facebook: http://facebook.com/marienicoleryan.author

Twitter: @marienicoleryan

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1166849.Marie_Nicole_Ryan

 

Giveaway:

Two winners: two sets of romance trading cards for Seducing the Sheriff and Taming Talia.

Just comment with email address to win

*giveaway ends August 27th*

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Guest Blogger & Giveaway with Amanda Arista

Did you know that the Dallas Infomart was based on London’s Crystal Palace and then declared as the successor to the palace itself?

Did you know that a coven can also refer to a group of vampires? So you need to make it clear which mythology, country, and time period you are trying to work with.

Did you know that in the Those who Wander universe (where the Diaries series takes place) vampires are closer to fairies than any other breed?

Though some details of my research will never land on the page, each thing I learn about my universe as well as the way the world works makes the universe (and frankly my life) more interesting.

NINE LIVES OF AN URBAN PANTHER

by Amanda Arista

Dear Diary,

With new supernatural creatures popping up at every turn (Ghouls? 
Really?), the city divided, and my long-lost cousin blazing into town, 
I’ve got a lot on my mind. Oh, not to mention I’m supposed to be planning a wedding. Chaz has got to be the best, most patient (and probably clinically 
insane) fiance around.

But defeating my sworn enemy in a battle for the souls of Dallas is going to 
require more than just my full attention. It means learning to depend on 
everyone—especially Chaz—if any of us are going to make it out of this alive. 
Because if Plan A doesn’t work, I’m going to need them for Plan B.

And Plan C . . .

Avon has given me one E-ARC of  Nine Lives of an Urban Panther to giveaway to one lucky follower.  

To enter please leave a comment and your email address

And keep reading to an another way to win….

Leave a comment and along with a daily giveaway

enter to win a Diaries of an Urban Panther gift set at the conclusion of the Nine Lives blog tour.

Running August 20th to September 3rd. See my website for details.

More Points here:

Facebook: Amanda Arista Fan Page (one like equals one entry into the giveaway)

Twitter: @pantherista (a follow equals one entry into the giveaway)

www.amandaarista.com (comment on the tour info equals one entry as well).

 

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Kelly’s review of The Chocolate Thief by Laura Florand

The Chocolate Thief
by Laura Florand
PUBLICATION DATE: 07/31/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Paris
Breathtakingly beautiful, the City of Light seduces the senses, its cobbled streets thrumming with possibility. For American Cade Corey, it’s a dream come true, if only she can get one infuriating French chocolatier to sign on the dotted line…

Chocolate
Melting, yielding yet firm, exotic, its secrets are intimately known to Sylvain Marquis. But turn them over to a brash American waving a fistful of dollars? Jamais. Not unless there’s something much more delectable on the table…

Stolen Pleasure
Whether confections taken from a locked shop or kisses in the dark, is there anything sweeter?

REVIEW:
What do you get when you mix an American determined to get a hold of on very hot French chocolatiers secrets, no matter the cost?  You get a super sweet love story wrapped in a nice little package.

This was a really fun book.  I loved Cade’s determination in what she wants.  Even if she doesn’t really know what she wants.  But what better way to get to get what you want but to steal it.
Sylvain has a touch for chocolate that most don’t.  He understands it, he feels it, he lives it.  Similar to what he knows about women.  But Sylvain is not prepared for the feisty American that just walked into his shop.

It was really fun to read the world that Laura has created in the book.  At times I was craving chocolate so bad it was not even funny.  If you are looking for a sweet romance story, I would suggest picking up a copy of the Chocolate Thief.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review and not a paid review.

4 Hearts
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Kellys’ review of A Woman Made For Pleasure by Michele Sinclair

A Woman Made for Pleasure
AUTHOR: Michele Sinclair
PUBLICATION DATE: 8/7/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Known as the Daring Three, a trio of exquisite young women are taking London by storm. But if Lady Millie Aldon has her way, no man will win her hand in marriage—not even the one she loves.

A Passion For Adventure

Drawn to a life of excitement and risk, Lady Millie Aldon made a pact to forsake marriage. But her plans are thrown into chaos when Chase Wentworth returns to town. The lanky lad she remembers from childhood is now the Marquess of Chaselton, possessing an air of mystery Millie can’t resist. As Chase moves through London’s elite circles, his stealth manner has Millie convinced he harbors a secret—one she is determined to reveal.

A Dangerous Seduction

As Millie makes a game of observing Chase’s every move, she finds her attraction to him unsettling. When a stolen kiss threatens to turn their flirtation into something more powerful, she questions her vow of freedom. But Millie has no idea of the danger she’s facing. Chase has a complicated past—and his clandestine efforts to expose a traitor will soon provide a more perilous—and passionate—adventure than Millie could ever have planned.

REVIEW:
The Daring Three…. So much fun I loved that three young girls make a pact to never marry, well except for the amendments that each put on the pact.  Amendments that no man could ever fulfill.   Or could he?

Millie has always been the hardheaded ringleader of the Daring Three.  But Millie never planned for the biggest adventure of her life.  Falling in love.  Chase has finally come home at the pleds of his mother.  But the last thing he ever planned to find when he came home was Lady Aldon.

I enjoyed this story and found the three girls fun.  Millie is a little pushy, stubborn and fiercely independent.  But I think she is a lot of these things because she is scared to fall in love.  Scared to trust people other than two closed pals.  I really liked Chase’s character.  He has a goal that he was to obtain, but finds that long his journey he has found a much better prize.

I am looking forward to the next adventure of the Daring Three.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. The following review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

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Kelly’s review of Eternal Beast by Laura Wright

Eternal Beast – Mark of the Vampire #4
AUTHOR: Laura Wright
PUBLICATION DATE: 08/17/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
A Taste of Blood

Ever since his abduction by the Eternal Order of Vampires, Gray Donohue has finally found his true calling: vengeance. He will stop at nothing to bring his fellow Impure vampires the freedom they deserve. Now if he could just release his primal need for the beautiful vampire who saved his life—and rules his thoughts and desires…

After nearly killing the senator she was assigned to protect, Dillon is now in mortal danger. The jaguar within her has been unleashed, and she can no longer control it. Sex is the only thing that can tame her shift. And Gray is the only man who can make her surrender to a passion strong enough to overpower her inner beast. But she doesn’t want to surrender—she wants her life back. Because she is determined never to belong to anyone, especially not Gray—the male whom destiny claims is her mate

REVIEW:
Ahhh the wonderful Laura Wright has done it again.  She has made me fall in love with her Mark of the Vampire series all over again.  I was very excited about Gray & Dillon’s book and it really lived up to what I hoped and dreamed it would be.  I will not give too much away, but……..

From the very first time we meet these two back in Eternal Hunger (bk 1) I knew they were going to be a fun couple to read about.  Both have been through hell and back in their lives.  Each has their own demons they have to face. Individually they are both strong and determined, but together (if they would stop fighting it for just a second) they are a powerhouse couple that can’t be stopped.

This was a great book!!!  Laura adds a lot of new dimensions to the Mark of the Vampire world, in both Eternal Captive (bk3) and Eternal Beast (bk 4).  But in EB we get into the mindset of the Order and why they think they way they do (sneaky, sick b*st*rds).  We also learn about the Impure Resistance that Gray is now a part of (looking forward to learning more about Rio, Vincent & Piper)and thier role in the world.   We also get to learn more about the newest Romans, The Mutore’s:  Lycos, Helo, Phane & Erion. We learn who and what they are and we actually see a very sweet and soft side of them (even if you only see it for a blink of an eye)

Which in classic Laura form, she leaves us hanging for the next installment in the Mark of the Vampire series.  ERION’s story!!!!    I am very much looking forward to this next installment in the wonderful series.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.  This review is my own opinion and was not a paid review.

4 Hearts
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Kelly’s review of An Inconvenient Affair by Catherine Mann

An Inconvenient Affair – The Alpha Brotherhood #1
AUTHOR: Catherine Mann
PUBLICATION DATE: 01/01/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Sometimes Wrong Feels Oh-So Right Hillary Wright has always been a magnet for Mr. Wrong. Her latest left her in trouble with the law, and to clear her name, she’s agreed to an undercover sting-as the “date” for infamous Troy Donavan. The notorious hacker is now a government good guy…and a sexy billionaire playboy. Troy has a reputation as the sort of man she’s vowed to avoid, and his secretiveness adds fuel to Hillary’s distrust. But with his kisses like molten sin, her fierce resistance is melting. And being sensible in the face of such overpowering desire is just not an option

REVIEW:
The Alpha Brotherhood:
A groups of three very troubled but very brilliant young men who meet in boarding school from an unlikely friendship that has stood the test of time over the last 17 years.  They call themselves The Alpha Brotherhood and have become the brothers they never had grouping up.  Brothers that are there for them, through thick and thin.

An Inconvenient Affair is book one in the Alpha Brotherhood trilogy.  We meet Troy Donavan, a notorious hacker turned billionaire playboy who moonlights as secret government agent.  Troy’s latest assignment is Hillary Wright.  He is to learn what she knows and get out.  But Troy doesn’t like to play by the rules and when he changes his plans and ends out on Hillary’s plane, neither of them will ever be the same.

Troy and Hillary are a great couple to read about.  They banter like an old married couple.  They both are stubborn and don’t take being lied to very well.  But when it come down to the end both are willing to go the extra mile to get what they want.

This was a fun quick read.  I am looking forward to the next installment in The Alpha Brotherhood series.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
OR
The following review is my opinion and not a paid review. I received this book free as part of the blog tour.

4 Hearts
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Black Ops Inc Series by Cindy Gerard

Show No Mercy Black Ops Inc. #1

by Cindy Gerard

The sexy heroes of Black Ops, Inc., a covert private security team, sizzle in New York Times bestselling author Cindy Gerard’s electrifying new romantic suspense series.

THE SULTRY HEAT…

Only two things can compel journalist Jenna McMillan back to Buenos Aires after terrorists held her captive there just months before: a rare interview with a shadowy billionaire and the memory of the dark and dangerous man who saved her….

HIDES THE DEADLIEST THREATS…

Bad guys, bombs, and bullets are Gabriel Jones’s way of life. But he’ll never forget the brash redhead he rescued not so long ago…or the passionate kiss they shared before he sent her packing….

AND EXPOSES THE DEEPEST DESIRES.

Now, forced together by a bombing at the National Congress, Jenna and Gabe confront the urgent longings that simmer between them. But this surprise meeting is no coincidence. A ruthless enemy stalks them with deadly precision. The question is…if they make it out alive, will Gabe turn his back on Jenna…again?

Take No Prisoners Black Ops Inc. #2

by Cindy Gerard

New York Times bestselling author Cindy Gerard’s red-hot new romantic suspense series features the irresistible men of Black Ops, Inc., a special team of heroes with a taste for living on the edge….

A Dangerous Attraction…

Abbie Hughes no longer trusts men, but despite her cool indifference, her long legs and showgirl face still draw plenty of attention. Between working as a blackjack dealer, going to school, and keeping an eye on her younger brother, Cory, there’s no time for romantic adventures — until the night a sexy, mysterious stranger places a wager at her table.

Spurred by revenge…

Sam Lang left Black Ops, Inc. when tragedy struck his family. Although he’s determined to retire his M-16 rifle to lead a quiet life on his ranch, a vengeful quest will send him on a manhunt for the ruthless multimillionaire who murdered his sister.

Reveals a savage threat they can’t ignore…

Though Sam suspects Abbie is in on a lucrative gem-smuggling deal her brother made with the enemy, their attraction is undeniable. Now Cory is missing, and together they search the wild Honduras backcountry to find him. With danger on their trail, they must trust each other completely or face certain death alone

 

Whisper No Lies Black Ops Inc. #3

by Cindy Gerard

In New York Times bestselling author Cindy Gerard’s fiery new romantic suspense series, when danger threatens, the seductive heroes of Black Ops, Inc. turn up the heat.

AN INDECENT PROPOSAL…

When a high roller at the Vegas casino where Crystal Debrowski manages security makes a scandalous proposition, she flat-out refuses, especially given rumors of his shady overseas connections. But then counterfeit bills mysteriously flood the gaming tables, and her reputation — and her life — are on the line.

REVEALS A SIMMERING DESIRE…

Despite his big, flirty grin, Texas heartbreaker Johnny Duane Reed can’t get sassy Crystal off his mind. When she is abducted by an international crime lord with a threatening obsession, Reed enlists his Black Ops, Inc. team to pursue a dangerous mission to rescue her.

…WITH DEADLY CONSEQUENCES.

Between Crystal and Johnny burns a scorching flame, but as they battle her relentless abductor, they uncover a malicious arms trafficking and white slavery ring. Together, they must destroy the tyrant’s wicked enterprises or face his reign of terror themselves.

Feel the Heat Black Ops Inc. #4

by Cindy Gerard

In New York Times bestselling author Cindy Gerard’s sizzling new novel, a ruthless international conspiracy is no match for the irresistible alpha heroes of Black Ops, Inc.

A RACE FOR SURVIVAL…

Bold, blonde Defense Intelligence officer B. J. Chase isn’t exactly thrilled when she’s summoned from personal leave to investigate an alarming national security breach — until the suspicious death of a government official blows her covert mission sky-high.

TURNS INTO A PULSE-POUNDING ADVENTURE…

Gorgeous Black Ops bad boy Raphael Mendoza always feared his family’s dark history would haunt him. But he never expected it might hold the key to dismantling a rogue weapons system. Now with cool B. J. Chase posing as his hot babe fiance, he returns to his uncle in Colombia to convince him he can be trusted with the family’s dirtiest business secrets.

…AND IGNITES A PASSIONATE FIRE.

Carrying out a deception among ruthless killers brings Rafe and B.J. too close to ignore the smoldering heat between them. Now, they must work together as the closest of partners as the countdown to international catastrophe closes in.

Risk No Secrets Black Ops Inc. #5

by Cindy Gerard

A deadly international mission reunites a sexy Black Ops, Inc. hero and his sizzling former love in Cindy Gerard’s seductive romantic thriller.

A red-hot attraction… 
Twelve years of chasing bad guys didn’t erase beautiful Sophie Baylor from Wyatt Savage’s memory. If he had another chance, he’d never let her leave. So when she tracks him down from El Salvador and begs for help, he doesn’t ask questions — he just goes.

Starts with a terrifying threat… 
Sophie is grateful her daughter survived a kidnapping attempt, but she won’t forgive herself until the girl who was mistakenly abducted is safe. Wyatt is the only man brave enough to take on the mysterious terrorists behind the crime; and the one irresistible man she wishes she had never let go.

…and unleashes an unforgettable adventure 
Sophie knows Central America’s steamy jungles and sticky politics better than anyone. Yet she refuses to hide in fear. Then she becomes the enemy’s number-one target. Wyatt lost her once, and he won’t lose her again — even if he has to fight, kill, or die to save her.

 

Deadly Promises

by Sherrilyn Kenyon, Cindy Gerard, Laura Griffin (Goodreads Author),Dianna Love

THESE HEROES ARE 100 PERCENT RAW, DANGEROUS, AND… UNDENIABLY SEXY.

New York Times bestselling authors Sherrilyn Kenyon, Dianna Love and Cindy Gerard and rising romance star Laura Griffin mix seduction and suspense in three irresistible romantic adventures.

From sultry international jungles to the rugged terrain of the American southwest, join the larger-than-life, scorching-hot alpha heroes of the Bureau of American Defense, Black Ops Inc., and the U.S. Navy SEALs for the pulse-pounding, heart-racing, toe-curling excitement. They’re cool under pressure, steamy under the sheets, and when the enemy strikes, there’s not a lethal mission these gorgeous men can’t handle…

Just Bad Enough
by Sherrilyn Kenyon and Dianna Love

Leave No Trace
by Cindy Gerard

Unstoppable
by Laura Griffin

With No Remorse Black Ops Inc. #6

by Cindy Gerard

Black Ops, Inc. operative Luke – Doc Holliday – Colter is taking some much needed down-time, making his way across the Peruvian Andes via rail, when banditos attack the moving train in the midnight hours.  It soon becomes apparent that robbery is not their intent but the abduction of super model Valentina, who is traveling incognito while recovering from a public scandal involving her ex-husband, high profile US Senator, Marcus Chamberlin.  Luke whisks Valentina off the train in a daring escape but the two of them become the targets of a relentless manhunt.  Enlisting the aid of Luke’s BOI teammates, they soon discover that Val’s intended abduction is linked to a plot put in play by an international gun smuggling alliance.  The BOI team led by Luke, with Val along as a necessary pawn, must race halfway around the world to thwart a ruthless attack that would not only result in a devastating loss of life but destroy a tenuous peace the US and her allies have established in a vastly unstable part of the world.

Last Man Standing Black Ops Inc. #7

by Cindy Gerard

A deadly mission.A thirst for revenge.One headstrong alpha hero and one daring woman will settle the score. LAST MAN STANDINGSpecial operative Joe Green has gone vigilante. His mission: avenge his Black Ops, Inc., brother’s death during a bloody ambush years ago in Sierra Leone. He refuses to drag the BOI team or his lover, Stephanie Tompkins, into the hunt for the man responsible, so when he finds himself beaten, starving, and alone after being falsely imprisoned for the murder of a Freetown priest, he knows he’s as good as dead. Joe meant to protect Stephanie when he walked out on their relationship, but he can’t stop her now from executing his escape. Breaking him out of prison is the easy part. After Joe’s explosive theory pans out and his cunning enemy emerges as the front runner for a high-level presidential appointment, he and Stephanie must race to derail the traitor’s conspiracy if they are to save their loved ones, the nation, and each other.

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Interview & Giveaway with Carol Cassada

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome first time guest Carol Cassada to the blog.  We are chatting about her new book “Westmore: Broken Ties” 

Carol, can you please share with us a little about yourself

I come from Ringgold, VA and I have a very supportive mother and two brothers, who love to tease me. I’m a romance writer; most of my books are inspired by soap operas. I’ve been writing for about three years now, I’ve done both traditional and self-publishing, although I prefer the latter.  During the night I write, but during the day I work a number of telecommuting jobs.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

It wasn’t until my final years of high school when I became interested in writing, and I loved it so much, that I decided this is something I’d like to do with my life. At first, I thought about becoming a journalist and working for the local newspaper, but in the end I decided to jump ship and write novels instead, and I’m happy I went in that direction.

Can you share with us your typical writing day.  Is there anything you have to have while writing?

I used to write during the day, but with my busy schedule I switched my routine to the night time, which is great because my family’s asleep and I have privacy. I usually start at around ten or eleven, and work for about two hours or until I get sleepy. The only thing I have to have while writing is peace and quiet, although occasionally I’ll put on my headphones and crank up the tunes.

Most challenging or rewarding part of writing?

The most challenging part is writing itself. I’m the type of person who gets an idea in her head and just goes with it; I type whatever I think of. Then when I go back to read the manuscript, it looks messy and I have a lot of editing to do. I usually do revision about two or three times to make sure everything looks good. I admit it’s a hassle but in the end when you see your finished product that’s the most rewarding part.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

Amazon | B&N

The Westmore series is what I call a romance novel meets a soap opera, the books focus on the lives of three families: The Greens, The Braxtons, and The Reynolds. The first volume was an introductory to the characters, and the second volume had an accident which caused a feud between The Braxtons and The Greens. The third volume is called Broken Ties; in the book the families and some of the couples are dealing with relationship issues, which threaten to tear them apart.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

Soap operas inspired me to write the series, I got my dose of romance from the shows. Years ago I wrote ideas for a soap opera in an old notebook, but with my busy schedule I never got a chance to do anything with it. Then I was looking for inspiration for my next book and I found the soap opera ideas and decided to turn it into a book series.

Can you share with us your current work in progress?

Next, I’ll be working on volume 4 of Westmore which I plan to release next year. Aside from that I’m working on other writing projects, including a paranormal romance novel.

Who are some of your favorite authors?

Danielle Steel and Jackie Collins are two of the biggest romance writers in the world and authors who I admire. One day I hope to achieve the success they have.

Do you feel that any of your favorite authors have inspired your writing style?

I feel that my writing style is different from most romance writers, because I don’t write love scenes. I’ll have couples kissing or making out, but as for sex scenes, I have it happen behind closed doors. I like to leave it to the reader’s imaginations.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

I have a shelf full of books that I haven’t even touched yet, they’re mostly ghost books and I try to read one at a time. Right now, I’m reading a book about the most haunted places in the world.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I want to thank you for hosting me. I love doing interviews and connecting with readers. And I hope you’ll check out Westmore.

Website  | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

Carol is giving away one E-copy of Westmore: Broken Ties. To enter please fill out the Rafflecopter below.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Spotlight feature of Dilemma by Jacquie Johnson (& giveaway)

 Why Human Trafficking

I was driving my daughters to Latin class a few months ago when I saw a billboard with the words, “Protect your daughters. Stop the trafficking.” I just about slammed on my brakes in surprise. Yes, I knew human trafficking existed, but I didn’t expect to see a warning about it in my own community. Indiana is not exactly the hotbed of crime in my mind. Those words along with an increase in newspaper articles about trafficking spawned the idea for Dilemma.

As a mother of three teenage girls, issues concerning sex, child prostitution, and kidnapping remain in the back of my mind. When most people hear the term sex trafficking, they think of people being forced into slavery. Sometimes the individuals are used as laborers or domestic servants. Other times, they are used for organ harvesting. Here in the United States, human trafficking – in large part – involves prostitution.

For example, on July 30, 2012, ABC News reported that three Washington teens filed suit against Backpage.com, claiming that they had been forced into prostitution and Backpage.com profited. According to the teens, their pimps would post pictures of them on the website, and with the simple click of a button, a customer could acquire the girl for a period of time. The lawsuit’s underlying premise is that the online site was aware that its classified ads were being used to enable the sale of sexual services but did nothing to protect the alleged victims.

This story resonated with me. After all, my daughters are around the same age as these girls, and I could not imagine how I would feel if this had happened to them. Much to their dismay, these kinds of stories make me want to lock them up in a house and never let them leave. Since I cannot do that, I chose another route – bringing attention to this issue. What better avenue than Dilemma? To assist in this effort, five percent of the profits from Dilemma will be donated to the Polaris Project to help stop trafficking and assist those who have been victimized.  


In Chicago, the name Jon Elliott garners attention. When the legal mastermind offers to mentor Alexis Winters, Bingham, Elliot, and Bright’s newest associate, she jumps at the opportunity sure she will launch her career. But Jon has a dark side, one that demands unquestioning loyalty and willingness to defy the spirit of the law, if not the letter.
Thrust into Jon’s world and expected to play by his rulebook, Alexis grapples with her conscience. On several occasions, Jon’s orders are at odds with what she learned in law school and she finds herself trapped between her profession’s rules of ethics and her own values. When Jon’s biggest client appears to be engaging in questionable activities and he orders her to ignore the behavior, Alexis investigates on her own. Suddenly, she is not only a witness to a horrible crime but a victim in her own right. Going underground, she turns to the one she can trust, investigative journalist Rhyder Prescott, a childhood friend. Together, Ryder and Alexis work to piece together a puzzle that crosses socioeconomic classes, political parties and international borders.
Embroiled in a global conspiracy that costs her the only family she has left, Alexis must decide how far she will go to defend truth and justice. Is she willing to sacrifice life, liberty and the possibility of love?

Excerpt:

“No wonder you look dynamite.”

Alexis was thankful the darkness hid her blush. “Thank you, but I exercise because it relieves stress and helps clear my mind.”

Ryder hummed in agreement while taking her hand as they walked through a small park. “Litigating is a demanding job. Do you like it?”

“Parts of it.” A puff of wind blew hair into her face, and she turned slightly toward Ryder, using his body as a buffer. He tugged her a little closer and tightened his hold on her hand. “I love researching. It makes me feel good when I find the needle in the haystack that helps win a case. Plus I like piecing together new theories and setting new precedents. I don’t like the actual court part, though. I mean, I like creating the arguments but hate making them in front of the judge. It’s nerve-racking.” She frowned, thinking about her stomach’s gymnastics each time she set foot in a courtroom.

“What made you choose defense work?” Ryder brushed a small branch aside so it wouldn’t hit her and led her toward a stone bench set back from the walking path.

“I guess you could say it chose me. I really liked criminal law in school and I was good at it. I won several awards for my studies in that area. But when time came to apply for jobs, I just couldn’t go in that direction. I didn’t want to do criminal defense because I couldn’t handle helping people who I thought were guilty even if they were entitled to representation. Prosecuting appealed to me, but it also scared me. What if I put someone innocent away? It seemed like too much responsibility.” She looked down at her hands, uncomfortable with her own admission. It wasn’t like her to share her innermost thoughts with other people. They were supposed to remain locked deep inside her. So why was she sharing her fears with Ryder of all people? She pushed that thought aside for later analysis as she tuned back into the conversation.

“So, why employment discrimination?” Ryder wrapped an arm around her, and she snuggled closer to him, appreciating his warmth and how good he smelled. It had been quite a while since she had enjoyed a man’s company in this way.

Alexis leaned her head against his shoulder and thought about how to answer. She considered giving him the canned answer she used during interviews, but the quiet intimacy of the moment allowed her to admit the truth. “I guess because it’s similar to criminal work in many ways without the safety risk or responsibility.”

“Why defense instead of plaintiff work?”

She laughed softly. “Because they offered me a job and I get paid well. I’d love to work on the plaintiff side or do pro bono work, but I have bills to pay.”

“Still the idealist, though?” His fingers played in her hair, and she closed her eyes, relishing the sensation. “Even though you’re swimming with sharks?”

She could tell he was teasing by the tone of his voice. “I don’t work with sharks, but I suppose I have changed. How could I not?” They sat in silence for a few minutes while she contemplated how to explain. “I still think the same way, but I’ve learned to temper my thoughts and opinions. I don’t agree with what many people do, but since most people live that way, I guess I’ve learned to live with reality. It doesn’t change how I feel inside, though. I just keep it to myself.”

“It’s hard to keep the values we learned at home alive. Time after time, I’ve tried to do the right thing, to report the truth, to showcase wrongs, but more often than not, I either get slammed for it or find out no one really cares. Sometimes I wonder why I pick myself up and do it all over again.”

“But you do.” Alexis tilted her head up and stared at Ryder, the moonlight highlighting his face and betraying how seriously he took the conversation. “I admire you for it.”

“Thank you,” Ryder breathed as he lowered his mouth to hers. The first kiss was soft and gentle, nothing more than a light touch of lips saying hello. The second had considerably more heat behind it and left her breathless. He lifted her chin and stared into her eyes as if seeking permission. Alexis trembled under his heated gaze. She knew what he was asking and didn’t know if she had the strength to deny him—or the courage to survive the aftermath. Ryder was a love ’em and leave ’em type, and she was a commitment kind of girl. Could she accept the night for what it was and live in the moment?

 

Dilemma Blog Tour Schedule

8/13/21 ~ Simply Ali

8/14/12 ~ Book Reviews and More by Kathy

8/15/12 ~ Harlie’s Book Blog

8/16/12 ~ Guilty Pleasures

8/17/12 ~ Books-n-Kisses

Want to learn more about Jacquie & her books?  You can contact her here
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/jacquie.johnson.39
Website http://www.jacquiejohnson.com/
Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5754674.Jacquie_Johnson

GIVEAWAY TIME:

Jacquie is offering a prize of a $5 Gift card per day to bookseller of choice (Amazon or B&N) to one commenter and a grand prize of a $20 gift card to bookseller of choice to one person.  To enter the daily entry please leave a comment with email  ( no email = no entry).

Click HERE to enter the Grand Prize drawing

 

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Spotlight Feature of Immigration & Adaptation by Haskell Edwards

 

Immigration and Adaptation 

Adaptation is a must. But how does one go about doing this? It takes great planning, finances, and courage to leave one’s homeland; but then finding support and comfort or anything of familiarity in a new land presents a whole new set of challenges. The stress is overwhelming. How do you gain the happiness and success you dreamed of attaining in the new land?Immigration and Adaptation is here to help you navigate through these challenges. With the information herein, immigrants coming to North America will be prepared to identify and resolve social, family, and personal challenges with confidence. Mr. Edwards’ vast professional experience with diverse immigrant families, as well as his own personal journey and genuinely encouraging approach, not only help immigrant families adapt to new surroundings, but grow stronger together in their journey.This book includes:
– A family wellness test
– Step-by-step guidelines
– Real-life examples
– Inspirational stories
– Family, parenting, and spousal exercises
– Illustrations
– Single-parenting adviceImmigration and Adaptation also includes tips on: building self-confidence, resolving conflicts, tuning communication skills, networking and building social supports, budgeting, parenting, enhancing spousal relationships, helping teenagers adjust, communicating effectively, and more.

Excerpt Link (Chapter 1):
http://www.myauthorwebsite.net/haskell-g-edwards/files/2011/06/Chapter-1.pdf

Haskell G. Edwards, D. Min. Bio:

Haskell G. Edwards, D. Min. has vast professional experience for more than forty years as pastor, administrator, family therapist, and director of a family therapy center. His extensive experience gained from working with immigrant families in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic setting, as well as his own personal journey and genuinely encouraging approach, positions him not only to help immigrant families adapt to new surroundings, but grow stronger together in their journey.He has successfully held immigrant seminars, workshops, and lectures throughout North America. Now a retired pastor, he continues to help immigrant families of a wide cultural heritage transition into their new homeland.
Haskell G. Edwards, D. Min. Web Site:
http://www.myauthorwebsite.net/haskell-g-edwards
Langdon Street Press Web Site:
http://langdonstreetpress.com/
Immigration and Adaptation blog tour site:
http://immigration-and-adaptation.blogspot.com/

Paperback
Publisher: Langdon Street Press
Price: $16.95
ISBN: 9781936782239
Pages: 272
Release: September 15, 2011

Amazon buy link: ($16.95)
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1936782235?tag=tributebooks-20

Barnes & Noble buy link: ($16.95)
http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=dcSBhG3Rj8w&offerid=239662.9781936782239&type=2&subid=0

Books-A-Million buy link: ($16.95)

http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Immigration-Adaptation/Haskell-G-Edwards/9781936782239

Ebook PDF ($8.99)
https://secure.mybookorders.com/order/haskell-edwards

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Interview & Giveaway with Julie Ann Walker

OMG!!!! I can’t even tell you how excited I am today!!!! I mean SUPER excited…  
*tries to slow down my racing heart*  
Why you ask?  
Well my newest author crush is on the blog today.  
Did I mention how SUPER EXCITED  I am right now?????  Did I?  


Who might be my newest author crush?  


Why it is the amazingly talented and super cute Julie Ann Walker and her fabulous, I could not put the books (yes, I have read the 1st three books) down for anything, stayed up way to late, bawled my eye out and am totally in love with her Black Knight Inc series…  Okay so enough of me talking… Let me introduce you to Julie…… 

Julie, can you please share with us a little about yourself

JW: Ha!  Only a little?  Well, here goes… I grew up in rural Oklahoma riding horses and wearing cowgirl boots.  I received my degree in mathematics – yes, you read that right, mathematics.  Doesn’t quite gel with romance writing, does it?  I married my college sweetheart.  From Oklahoma, we moved to Michigan and then Chicago, and the Windy City is now my home.  I’m a recovering shoe-and-handbag-aholic – recovering, that is, until Nordstrom’s has another sale…  My favorite activity is riding my bicycle along the Lake Michigan shoreline.  I drink way too much coffee.  And, when I’m writing, my fifteen-year-old Labrador Retriever curls up around my feet.

Whew! Who knew a life could be condensed down to a few sentences?

Have you always wanted to be an author?

JW: My father calls me a natural-born story-teller.  As a kid, I was perpetually relating this anecdote or making up that story – lots of hand gestures included.  But, no, I didn’t always dream of being an author.  In fact, I fancied myself more of a reader than a writer.  But that’s not to say the stories weren’t in my head; they always were – at least that’s what I tell people to account for the pesky voices without admitting I’m completely cray-cray.  But, seriously, one day I decided to write one of those stories down and a thought kept spinning through my mind during the process.  That thought was, “this is what I was meant to do…”  HELL ON WHEELS was born and the rest, as they say, is history…

Can you share with us your typical writing day.  Is there anything you have to have while writing?

JW:  My typical writing day starts with coffee.  Then I sit down and take care of the business of writing, the answering of emails, phone calls, etc.  Afterward, I usually procrastinate a little and get on Twitter and Facebook and Pinterest.  *Wince*  Don’t tell my editor and agent.  And finally, sometime before lunch and after my third cup of coffee – did I mention I like coffee? – I dig in to my current work in progress.

Most challenging or rewarding part of writing?

JW:  Oh, by far the most challenging part of writing for me is actually getting the words on the page.  Like I said, the stories are already in my head, usually fully formed, so why bother taking the time to write them all down?  Oh, so you guys can read them?  Okay, I suppose… LOL!

As for the most rewarding part of writing, that would have to be the readers, people who  come up to me or email me and say they loved my book.  There’s nothing better than knowing you brought a little joy and entertainment into someone’s life.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

JW:  The second and third books in the Black Knights Inc. series are being released in the next couple of months.  IN RIDES TROUBLE, the story of BKI’s head hancho, Frank “Boss” Knight, and spunky mechanic, Becky “Rebel” Reichert, starts off in the middle of the Indian Ocean with Becky having been abducted by Somali pirates.  It’s a thrill-ride and Becky and Boss set the pages on fire.  The third installment, REV IT UP, centers around Michelle Carter and Jake “The Snake” Sommers.  Those two have a history that will make you laugh and cry in turn, and Michelle’s holding on to a secret so volatile there’s no way to avoid explosions.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

JW:  It’s total confession time here.  Because the idea for HELL ON WHEELS began with my two favorite fantasies, the military man and the man on a motorcycle.  We all know there’s nothing sexier than a guy in uniform and, for me, the concept of the rebel outlaw mounting up on a half ton of steel and heading for the open road is a total turn-on.  Once it occurred to me that there might be a way to combine the two, the story just wrote itself.  And is there anyone hotter than Nate?  I fan myself just thinking of him!

Can you share with us your current work in progress?

JW: I’m currently working on the fourth book in the Black Knights Inc. series.  It’s the story of smoking hot Cajun operator, Richard “Rock” Babineaux, and Vanessa Cordero, the sexy communications specialist who won’t take “no” for an answer.  It starts off in the jungles of Costa Rica and I can tell you this, it’s hot and steamy and oh-oh-oh so delicious.  I can’t wait for everyone to read it because I’m having an absolute blast writing it!

Who are some of your favorite authors?
JW:  I love Suzanne Brockmann.  Her stories are complex and intricate.  I’m a total fan-girl.  Stephen King can raise the hairs on my arm like no other, and John Grisham is always a pre-order for me.

Do you feel that any of your favorite authors have inspired your writing style?
JW:  Oh, I definitely think Suz Brockmann is an inspiration.  Her characters are so diverse and unique.  And I absolutely love the way she handles internal dialogue.  Plus, her pop-culture references always resonate with me.  (Probably because I watch way too much TV.  Shhhh.  Don’t tell my mother.)

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
JW:  My To Be Read Pile?  Oh, you mean that tower of books over in the corner?  The one that will likely kill my dog if he brushes against it and it falls on him?  Ooph.  Where to begin?  I guess I’ll start by saying that last year I came upon an article about the 100 Best Works of Fiction of the 20th century, and I’ve been endeavoring to work my way through that list ever since.  So currently, I have waiting for me, BRAVE NEW WORLD by Aldous Huxley, BELOVED by Toni Morrison, and A FAREWELL TO ARMS by Ernest Hemingway…

Is there anything else you would like to add?

JW: Thank you so much for having me on Books-n-Kisses.  This has been wonderful.  Now I’m off to get another cup of coffee!

 

HELL ON WHEELS BY JULIE ANN WALKER – IN STORES AUGUST 2012

Black Knights Inc.—Behind the facade of their tricked–out motorcycle shop is an elite special ops team assigned the jobs too hot for anyone else to handle.

Hold On Tight…

Ex–Marine Nate “Ghost” Weller is an expert at keeping his cool—and his distance—which makes him one hell of a sniper. It’s also how he keeps his feelings for Ali Morgan in check. Sweet, sexy Ali has always revved his engine, but she’s his best friend’s baby sister…and totally off limits.

Rough Road Ahead

Ali’s never seen anything sexier than Nate Weller straddling his custom Harley—or the flash of danger in his eyes when she tells him she’s in trouble. First something happened to her brother, and now she’s become the target of a nasty international organization. With Nate, her life is in the most capable hands possible—but her heart is another story altogether.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Deep in the heart of the Windy City, three things can be found at Julie Ann Walker’s fingertips: a keyboard, a carafe of coffee, and a sleepy yellow Labrador retriever.  They, along with her ever-patient husband, keep her grounded as her imagination flies high. Look for the next two books in her fast-paced series: In Rides Trouble (September 2012) and Rev It Up (October 2012). For more information, please visit www.julieannwalker.com or follow her on Facebook www.facebook.com/jawalkerauthor or Twitter @JAWalkerAuthor.

 

GIVEAWAY TIME:

Sourcebooks has given me one copy of Hell on Wheels.

a Rafflecopter giveaway