Taking over the world, one book at a time
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TITLE: Tall, Dark and Vampire
SERIES #: Dead In The City #1
CHARACTERS: Olivia & Doug
AUTHOR: Sara Humpreys
PUBLICATION DATE: 08/06/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The last person Olivia Hollingsworth expected to see at her Greenwich Village vampire club was her one true love, Doug Paxton—whom she believed to be dead for centuries. Olivia thought she had moved on, but when Doug reappears, her heart knows she’d rather die than lose him again.
Ever since Doug can remember, a red-haired siren has haunted his dreams. He never thought she could be real until he goes to investigate a murder at Olivia’s night club. However, as the bodies keep piling up at her feet, he must fight to prove her innocence—even if it costs him his life.
REVIEW:
3.5 Stars Well this was not one of my favorite vampire romance stories but it was good. The writing is good if not a little wordy. I enjoyed the suspense of the story and honestly had not considered the person who it ended up being. I did enjoy that this was not your typical vampire romance.
The problem I had was the characters had little chemistry and there were a bunch of liberties taken with what we know as vampire legend. Something was just of about this story but I can’t really say what it is.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Pre-order HERE
Nine years ago, Archaeologist Maren Hudson lost everything when a member of her team was killed during a routine dive. Now she’s been drawn back to Mexico and the career she walked away from in order to protect the most precious thing in the world: her daughter.
One desperate phone call brings salvage expert Thad Leighton back to Mexico. For his murdered brother, he’s ready to settle the score, but one look at Maren and everything changes. Years may have passed, but she’s still as mesmerizing as she once was, and a few days on site together have him questioning his priorities and why the hell he walked away from her so long ago.
Sparks between them reignite, but Thad knows Maren is holding something back. Thrust together in the middle of the sweltering Yucatan, Thad is more than willing to strip away her layers. But while the truth might offer the second chance he’s been searching for, forgiveness may be as elusive as the relic they’re both hunting. Because when Thad unearths Maren’s biggest secret and discovers who she’s really working for, suddenly it’s not just about a life that was stolen from both of them, it’s about staying alive and outwitting a madman who will stop at nothing to get what he wants.
Author’s Bio
I was never one of those people who knew they wanted to be an author at the age of six. I didn’t have imaginary friends. I didn’t write stories in my journal or entertain my relatives by firelight after Thanksgiving dinner. For the most part, I was just a normal, everyday kid. I liked to read, but I wasn’t exceptional at it. And when my teachers complimented me on my writing abilities, I brushed them off. I did, however, always have a penchant for the unique and absurd. And as my mother told me all throughout my childhood, I should have been an actress—I was a drama queen before my time.
Years ago, my husband bought me Scarlett: The Sequel to Gone With The Wind. If you ever saw the book, you know it’s a long one. I sat and read that thing from cover to cover, and dreamed of one day being a writer. But I didn’t actually try my hand at writing until years later when I quit my teaching job to stay home with my kids. And my husband? After that week of reading where I neglected him and everything else until I finished Scarlett, he vowed never to buy me another book again. Little did he know I’d one day end up sitting at a keyboard all day drafting my own stories.
My writing journey has not been easy. I didn’t just sit down one day, decide I was going to write a book and voila! sell my very first attempt. As most authors will probably agree, the path to publication is filled with hours of work, pulling all-nighters I thought I’d given up in college, sacrifices, rejections, but a love I discovered along the way I just can’t live without. Instead of a big, thick book to read by lamplight (I do read much smaller ones when I get the chance), I’ve traded in my reading obsession for a laptop. And I’ve never been happier.
I’m one of the lucky ones. I have a wonderful family and fabulous husband who put up with my writing—and obsessive personality—even when life is chaotic. More than once my kids have been late to swimming or baseball because I needed just five more minutes to finish a scene. Their support and encouragement mean the world to me. I also have amazing friends and a support network I couldn’t survive without. So to all of you out there who have encouraged me along the way, sent me emails and fan letters, phone calls and congratulations, I just want to say, thank you. You make this whole writing gig that much more enjoyable. I truly wouldn’t be here without you.
Author Links:
Website/Blog: http://www.elisabethnaughton.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElisNaughton
FB Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/elisabeth.naughton1
Eternal Guardians FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/EternalGuardians
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2002988.Elisabeth_Naughton
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Scorched is the first book in the amazing new trilogy by Mari Mancusi and I made the mistake of starting this book right before bedtime. I got so wrapped up in its storyline that I couldn’t wait to see what happened next.
Meantime, there’s a different voice whispering to Trinity, calling to her, telling her what to do…the dragon inside her egg is not ready to give up without a fight.
About the Author:
Mari Mancusi always wanted a dragon as a pet. Unfortunately the fire insurance premiums proved a bit too large and her house a bit too small–so she chose to write about them instead. Today she works as an award-winning young adult author and freelance television producer, for which she has won two Emmys.
Jennifer’s Review of Scorched
TITLE: Scorched
CHARACTERS: Trinity Foxx, Connor and Caleb
AUTHOR: Mari Mancusi
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/03/13
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Trinity–Don’t leave me here… It starts with a whisper. At first Trinity thinks she’s going crazy. It wouldn’t be a big surprise—her grandpa firmly believes there’s a genuine dragon egg in their dusty little West Texas town. But this voice is real, and it’s begging for her protection. Even if no one else can hear it…
Connor
He’s come from a future scorched by dragonfire. His mission: Find the girl. Destroy the egg. Save the world.
Caleb
He’s everything his twin brother Connor hates: cocky, undisciplined, and obsessed with saving dragons.
Trinity has no idea which brother to believe. All she has to go by is the voice in her head—a dragon that won’t be tamed.
REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Jennifer NUMBER OF STARS: Five Stars
REVIEW: Scorched was an amazing thrill-ride in an exciting new world where dragons are the way of the future. Trinity Foxx is trying to hold everything together since her mother’s death two years ago and has been living with her grandfather while working at his roadside museum. Money is tight and Trinity can’t wait until Christmas when she can open her beloved video game that is sitting under the tree. Her grandfather comes home on Christmas Eve with a new exhibit for the failing museum. A beautiful dragon egg from Antarctica that her grandfather had purchased with the last remaining money that was supposed to pay the property taxes on their house. Trinity’s life is about to change with this beautiful new object, a destiny that will change the world and only she and a handsome young man from the future can stop the end of days.
I loved this book and I can’t tell you how much I loved this story! I made the mistake of starting this book right before bed and I couldn’t stop reading until midnight. The story is action-packed with enough twists and turns that will make you read one more chapter to see what happens next. Trinity was a great character who seemed so much older than her teenage years. She was trying desperately to hold everything together by managing the money for her flighty grandfather and being one step away from being homeless. When Connor came into her life, I liked that even though she was presented with all this information about the future, HER future, she didn’t freak out. It showed what a strong person she was and she would do anything to prevent this destructive future from happening.
I really liked Connor. He came from the future to the past to prevent Trinity and her new dragon from creating an apocalyptic future. He reminded me a lot of Kyle from Terminator. A man coming from the future to change the past and falling in love with the girl with the power to make it right. That was what endeared me to this book because of some of the similarities and the fantasy aspect of a world with dragons. This was a great read for me and I can’t wait to read Shattered, the second book in the trilogy, out next year.
When asked about the appeal of steampunk, it’s hard to give a serious answer. We’re talking about a group of ingenious folk who adore squids and octopi and parade around with their underwear on display, possibly wearing birdcages on their heads. I love steampunk and everything about it, but I don’t like overanalyzing the phenomenon or its participants. My head might combust.
Not that steampunk can’t be serious, but it’s enormously difficult to define beyond the standard answer of: it’s alternate history (typically Victorian) plus unusual technology (typically steam), often with themes of rebellion (which is where the punk comes in). To try and narrow it down any more than that wouldn’t be wise.
It’s that difficulty of definition that makes steampunk appealing to me. It is whatever you want it to be, and though it got its start in literature (classic authors include Jules Verne), it’s become an endeavor that spans everything from music to furniture making to fashion to iPhone apps. I maintain steampunk is an aesthetic, not a genre, but people tend to roll their eyes and tell me I’m talking like a professor.
So I can only tell you why steampunk appeals to me and let others speak for themselves. First and foremost, it’s cool. I’ve had a wardrobe of semi-Victorian clothing since I was in university and discovered Folkwear patterns (they’re still around at www.folkwear.com). I also absolutely love the fact that so many in the steampunk community are reviving old craft techniques and making just about everything by hand. In a world of shopping malls and throw-away goods, I value quality, unique items made by a person I can name. Call it a rebellion against mass-market culture if you like, but I’m content thinking of it as nifty. I’m also very much in favor of the revived interest in good manners—let’s hope that one spreads!
But back to the storytelling side of things. I’ve steeped in history and literature pretty much since my parents gave me my first book to chew, so writing historical fiction feels like I’ve finally come home. I also love the fact that most steampunk stories are packed with adventurers, pirates, and mad scientists. I live for edge-of-the-chair stories with derring-do and heroism, and here I have the scope to write that. My books have adventure, magic and romance—and my heroine, Evelina Cooper, is Sherlock Holmes’s niece. Of course there is mystery, too!
If the word “steampunk” didn’t exist, I’d call the Baskerville Affair trilogy Victorian fantasy with an ensemble cast. My books are long, but I have four important character arcs to see through by the end of the series, and I don’t cheat readers out of the full ride. In A Study in Silks, my characters start out in the elegance of London’s Mayfair and end up by the time A Study in Ashes comes along as players in a war of magic and machines that tears the Empire apart. Along the way, they have to face the darker sides of their natures and decide just how much they’re willing to risk for the futures—and the people—they desire.
So what’s the appeal of steampunk books? In many ways, they are the same as any other books. There might be flying machines and automatons, historical settings and tea, but all excellent tales are about good and evil and the complexity of the human heart. If you’ve got that, and a few good chase scenes—romantic or by dirigible—what’s not to like?
Have you read any steampunk stories?
What is your favorite thing about steampunk?
Answer one of the questions above, and you’ll be entered into a draw for these earrings.
They are adorably perfect for book lovers!
They’re hand made in Scotland and are tiny bound books with real pages.
These are ornamented with tiny silver butterflies.
Giveaway ends 9/16. Make sure you leave your email address too!!!!
Open to everyone
Visit my web page: http://www.emmajaneholloway.com/
Like me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmmaJaneHollowayAuthor
September 2013
Evelina Cooper, the niece of the great Sherlock Holmes, is poised to enjoy her first Season in London’s high society, but there’s a murderer to deal with—not to mention missing automatons, a sorcerer, and a talking mouse . . .
In a Victorian era ruled by a Council of ruthless steam barons, mechanical power is the real monarch, and sorcery the demon enemy of the Empire. Nevertheless, the most coveted weapon is magic that can run machines—something Evelina has secretly mastered. But rather than making her fortune, her special talents could mean death or an eternity as a guest of Her Majesty’s secret laboratories. What’s a polite young lady to do but mind her manners and pray she’s never found out?
But then there’s that murder. As Sherlock Holmes’s niece, Evelina should be able to find the answers, but she has a lot to learn. And the first decision she has to make is whether to trust the handsome, clever rake who makes her breath come faster, or the dashing trick rider who would dare anything for her if she would only just ask . . .
Read an excerpt here: http://www.emmajaneholloway.com/books/
A little about Emma Jane Holloway
Ever since childhood, Emma Jane Holloway refused to accept that history was nothing but facts prisoned behind the closed door of time. Why waste a perfectly good playground coloring within the timelines? Accordingly, her novels are filled with whimsical impossibilities and the occasional eye-blinking impertinence—but always in the service of grand adventure.
Struggling between the practical and the artistic—a family tradition, along with ghosts and a belief in the curative powers of shortbread—Emma Jane has a degree in literature and job in finance. She lives in the Pacific Northwest in a house crammed with books, musical instruments, and half-finished sewing projects. In the meantime, she’s published articles, essays, short stories, and enough novels to build a fort for her stuffed hedgehog.
9.2.13
Guest blog & giveaway with Ashlyn Chase
Jennifer reviews Asylum by Madeleine Roux
Introducing… Winter Romance Wednesday!
9.3.13
Interview with Elizabeth Chadwick
Kimberly reviews Blue By You by Rachel Gibson
9.4.13
Bran New Death Blog Tour & Giveaway
Winter Romance Wednesday! Kimberly reviews The Memory Tree by Joseph Pittman
9.5.13
Kelly reviews Rush by Joan Swan
9.6.13
Guest blog & giveaway with Marian Lanouette
Kelly reviews Hunter’s Heart by JD Tyler
9.7.13
SINsational Saturday Series
Southern Witch #1
The promising debut of a hot new voice in paranormal romance-and the first of the Southern Witch novels.
The family magic seems to have skipped over Tammy Jo Trask. All she gets are a few untimely visits from long-dead, smart-mouthed family ghost Edie. But when her locket-an heirloom that happens to hold Edie’s soul-is stolen in the midst of a town-wide crime spree, it’s time for Tammy to find her inner witch.
After a few experiences with her dysfunctional magic, Tammy turns to the only person in small-town Duval, Texas, who can help: the very rich and highly magical Bryn Lyons. He might have all the answers-and a 007savoir faire to boot-but the locket isn’t the only heirloom passed down in Tammy’s family. She also inherited a warning: stay away from Lyons.
Southern Witch #2
Welcome to Duvall, Texas, where Tammy Jo Trask has just unleashed an accidental Armageddon.
When Tammy Jo’s misfiring magic attracts the attention of the World Association of Magic, a wand-wielding wizard and a menacing fire warlock show up to train her for a dangerous—and mandatory—challenge. But is there more to their arrival than they claim?
The town comes unglued when a curse leads to a toxic spill of pixie dust and the doors between the human and faery worlds begin to open. To rescue the town and to face the challenge, Tammy needs help from the incredibly handsome Bryn Lyons, but the association known as WAM has declared him totally off-limits
Southern Witch #3
New witch Tammy Jo Trask has a whole town full of trouble, in the latest from the national bestselling author of Barely Bewitched.
First, there are the local residents who form a scripture-spouting posse and kidnap Tammy to “defend” Duvall, Texas, against witchcraft. Next, someone saddles her with a secret package chock full of dangerous visions, just as the president of WAM-the World Association of Magic- arrives with his entourage to investigate her. And who worse to examine Tammy’s entanglement with off-limits and drop-dead gorgeous wizard Bryn Lyons than his ex-girlfriend? Not to mention that the clash between the locals and the magical visitors leads to a series of unnatural disasters that may doom them all.
While the fate of the town hangs in the balance, one thing’s certain: this would-be witch is ready to rumble, Texas style.
Southern Witch #4
With two kinds of magick at odds inside her and two gorgeous men vying for her attention, Tammy Jo Trask is used to being pulled in opposite directions. But in the latest Southern Witch novel she’ll have to make some serious decisions—like how she intends to stay alive.
Tammy Jo’s romance with the wizard Bryn Lyons is on hold while her ex-husband is in town trying to remind her of the good old days. Choosing between them isn’t easy, and it doesn’t help that a skeletal creature is spying on her, a faery knight is hunting her, and she just made friends with Evangeline Rhodes—a rich witch who thinks her own family is trying to kill her.
When Evangeline disappears under suspicious circumstances, Tammy Jo is determined to find out what happened. As she uncovers a secret more dangerous—and personal—than she could have imagined, she also discovers that, in both love and magic, you can’t stay neutral forever.
Southern Witch Book #5
Expected publication: May 2015
I’m excited to be here at Books-N-Kisses, thanks Kelly for the invite. September 7th marks my first anniversary as a published author and so much has happened within this year. I’ve had three e-books release and one paperback. It’s been a whirlwind ride. Anticlimactic and yet filled with joy and anticipation. Why anticlimactic? E-books are great, in fact, I own both a Nook and a Kindle, but I wasn’t able to hold my babies in my hands. I love my e-readers though there is still nothing like holding a book. A paperback or hard covered book not only engages your imagination, it entices your senses-the look, the feel, the smell all enhance the enjoyment of reading in my opinion. I remember as a child rushing home from the library with my new treasure. Finding a corner alone (which was quite hard being one of ten children living in a five room apartment) to lose myself in the story.
This month If I Fail, A Jake Carrington Mystery will be out in paperback, followed up quickly with Burn in Hell, A Jake Carrington Mystery in November. There’s no feeling in this world that compares to sending out your baby (book) out into the world. I had the jitters naturally accompanied with an upset stomach, along with a heart filled with happiness. I waited all day for the reviews to start to come in. And thank goodness they were great. A bunch of friends, family and fellow authors helped me mark the occasion. This year to celebrate the anniversary of If I Fail as it hits the bookshelves, I’m giving away an autograph copy when it comes off the presses.
Are rules really meant to be broken? Jake Carrington finds out the hard way and the answer is no! Dating Chloe Wagner was a huge mistake, and Jake should have known better—he’s investigating the murder of Chloe’s sister. Now Chloe is the number one suspect in that murder. If she’s convicted, Jake could lose not only his rank, but his job. If that’s not bad enough, he’s got a stalker on his hands, someone who’s threatening his fledgling relationship with the lovely Mia. Things are getting just a little too personal for comfort!
Excerpt of Jake and Mia’s first meet
Jake walked into Louie’s house—the noise level, created by all the seven-year-olds running around, screaming at the top of their lungs, immediately pierced his ear drums. He dodged a few as he passed the living room; he noticed Louie Jr., whom everyone called LJ to distinguish between father and son, with his friends, playing some video game and ribbing each other as young boys often do.
Jake caught LJ’s eye. “Hey, Uncle Jake. Dad’s out back.”
“Thanks, I’ll see you later.” Jake continued to make his way to the kitchen. He could only hope the noise level would be lower outside.
Jake walked into the kitchen, looking around at the organized chaos. He spotted Sophia in the center of it, talking to a dark-haired woman in a low-cut red sundress with a jacket. The newcomer stole his breath, sucking all the air from his lungs. At five-nine those tall high heels she wore showcased her long, shapely legs. Wild thoughts ran through his head, he knew exactly where he’d like her to wrap them. She laughed at something Sophia said. Her laughter vibrated through him—sounding like music. A line from an old Bogie movie played in his head. ‘Boy, she was a tall drink of water’—he wanted a sip of that. Large gold hoop swung at her ears, a gold bracelet, and an emerald ring on her right hand, nothing on her left. Good detecting, Jake thought, laughing inwardly. Sophia moved around the kitchen while they spoke, each movement automatic. Food dishes containing different kinds of treats littered the counter. In his peripheral vision, he saw Sophia pull something out of the oven that smelled heavenly, though Jake never took his eyes off the other woman.
They’d yet to notice him. He cleared his throat. “My God, Sophia, you’ve outdone yourself this time. Whatever it is smells great. I want to be the first to taste it.” He leaned over, kissing Sophia on the cheek.
“Jake, you finally made it. This is my friend Mia Andrews.” Sophia introduced her.
“It’s nice to meet you. Sophia talks about you all the time.”
Taking the outstretched hand her firm handshake surprised him. The softness of her skin reminded him of satin, causing electrical sensations to shoot through his body. Jake wished he’d dressed for the party. Instead he’d wore broken-in jeans with boots, a collared cotton shirt, the sleeves rolled half way up his arms—his idea of dress-up. He had a thing for belt buckles. Today he wore a silver American Bald Eagle.
“Nice to meet you, Mia. I’ll have to speak with Louie. He never mentioned you.” He looked over at Sophia.
“Louie’s out back, Jake. He’s on grill duty,” Sophia said innocently.
“I’ll see him in a moment. For now, I think I’ll help out in here. What do you need me to do?” He hoped Sophia wanted him to do something because he didn’t want to leave the kitchen. Or leave Mia.
“She won’t accept any help. Everyone’s offered,”
“Oh, that’s our girl. Come on, Sophia, what do you need?”
“Nothing. Everything’s done. It just has to be taken out when Louie finishes cooking. In fact, let me check with him to see how he’s doing out there. I’ll be right back.” Sophia left them alone.
“Subtle, isn’t she?”
What a smile, Jake thought. Gleaming white teeth, though her eyes were what caught and held his attention. When she smiled, they lit up like stars; cerulean eyes that stared directly into his, igniting a fire which shot straight through his center. Jake brought himself back to earth, willing himself to look away, breaking the stare.
A little about Marian:
Marian born and raised in Brooklyn, New York is the seventh child of ten. At the age of sixteen her family moved from New York to New England. As a typical teenager, she felt her life was ruined and took to journalizing her feeling and this new life. The journal helped her realize how easily she had adapted to the change. Although, she did miss her cherished friends terribly; she’s thankful, they are still friends today. The four of them refer to each other as the cradle to the grave friends.
Unbeknown to her parents, at the age of five she started reading the New York Daily News story about the murdered nurses in Chicago and the investigation. Marian followed the story every day as authorities rushed to solve the brutal crime. It had caught her attention and her imagination. To this day she stills checks her closet before going to sleep. Marian thinks it was on that day the mystery lover was created.
At the age of eight she wrote every day, whether it be a poem, a short story or in her journal. An eighth grade assignment got her published. Though she failed the assignment, the nun was impressed with her poem. It was supposed to be a four line poem, but she couldn’t still her pen. The Beach her first official published work is still her favorite though much longer than four lines. It was the nun who submitted the poem for her to the local paper. Thus, the writer was born.
Marian’s first book If I Fail, A Jake Carrington Mystery will be released on September 7, 2012; and will be followed up in January 2013 with the second book in the series, Burn in Hell, A Jake Carrington Mystery. Each book’s a mystery with romantic elements, because to quote Marian, “Life is both mysterious and romantic.”
Marian resides in New England with her husband.
Marian Lanouette | Facebook | Twitter
TITLE: Hunter’s Heart
SERIES #: Alpha Pack #4
CHARACTERS: Ryon Hunter & Daria Bradford
AUTHOR: JD Tyler
PUBLICATION DATE: September 3, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
A group of former Navy SEALS, the Alpha Pack is a top secret team of wolf shifters with Psy powers combating the greatest dangers in the world. And when the battle gets personal, their wild side is unleashed….
Ryon Hunter sees dead people—spirits that beg him for help in ways he can’t understand. He’d do anything to end the torment, until a beautiful spirit appears to him with a plea he can’t ignore: Help me…I’m alive. The woman is wildlife biologist Daria Bradford, mortally wounded after encountering a white wolf, calling to Ryon through a rare Psy gift.
When Ryon locates Daria in the Shoshone National Park, it is almost too late, but nursing her back to health at the Alpha Pack compound brings a new complication—Daria is his destined mate, and Ryon is afraid of what will happen when she discovers what he is, and what he had to do to save her life. But the biggest threat of all is still loose in the forest, leaving a merciless trail of death behind it. The Alpha Pack goes on the hunt for the mysterious white wolf, determined to stop the murderous rogue… only to find that the most lethal creature of all is the one they can’t see coming…
REVIEW:
3.75 Stars Ryon’s gift of seeing spirits has always been troublesome for him. But when Daria’s spirit calls out for help Ryon can not just sit there and do nothing. He has to save her. He is not totally sure why just yet, and of course Nick is not saying, but Ryon knows he has to reach her before it is too late and save her by any means necessary. Even if that means by taking this chance might mean he could lose everything.
Hunter’s Heart opens up more questions than it gives answers to what really happened to the Alpha Pack the night they were attacked. But they do learn that it was not random. That it was a carefully executed plan of attack. And Daria’s uncle was one of the top rink leaders.
I really enjoyed Ryon & Daria’s story. I always love a visit to the Alpha Pack and really can’t wait to see what JD has in store for the Pack next.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
So I asked someone what I should write about today. I wanted something new and fresh, yet still creative and fun. My friend tells me, “Leafs.”And I laughed, because actually, this is a perfect topic. My creativity as a youth came in all forms and fashion. One of the things I loved about growing up in Kansas City was the schools focus on the Arts. In fourth grade I took photography and music. I really loved photography. We learned so much about film that I wish I could remember.
What I do remember was the photos. We were instructed how to build a box camera. You know, like the ones in the old days. Then we were instructed how to properly take the pictures and then transport them into the dark room for development. My favorite photo (which I looked for but can’t find, one day I will remember where I put it,) was of a leaf.
We were in the dark room and the teacher told us to position our objects how we wanted them and she was going to turn on the light so the imprint would burn into the film. I was so pleased with how the leaf looked in the photo.
This was the first experience I had in creating something from nothing. I’ve said this before but writing is an Art and Art is magic. To me, moments like this are a perfect example of why magic is a part of everyday life, even when we can’t see or feel it.
I challenge everyone who reads this to find a way to create something from nothing. And having children doesn’t exactly count. Make this something – something creative. Something that will allow you to have joy when it’s just you and the object. What is it that pulls at your insides and craves for you to set it free? That’s what I challenge you to make. I’d love to hear what you come up with so make sure you post to me on Facebook or email me and let me know.
From one Artist to another – Happy Creating!
The Art of Safkhet Presents – The Blood Series
In a world we think we know, live other races entirely hidden from the mortal perspective. Creatures of legend, of fable and myth, their very history and nature have allowed them to walk side by side with humans since time immemorial. They are warriors, they are hunters, and they are Algula. Vampire. And in their own midst, a battle is brewing for supremacy, for dominance, that can and will affect all around them. Old hatred never dies and vengeance is a fiery sword that cuts a bloody swath.
AMAZON | SMASHWORDS | B & N
The lines are drawn, and Zayn and Nikole must face each other in a battle of forgiveness and power; each attempting to right their wrongs, each battling their own inner demons.
Haydar and Leigh prepare for war, rounding their men and setting into motion courses that cannot be undone.
The tales will fall in line as the four of them come face to face with each other, and they will watch loved ones perish.
When the dust settles and dawn breaks, who’s going to be left standing and who will be missing? Will Nikole forgive Zayn for his betrayal? Will Leigh and Haydar overcome their differences? Will Adara say yes?
Blood Yellow…Because the stories only just begun….
Author Bio
Ashley is married and lives in Houston with her husband Tony. They have two dogs, Toto and Doogie. They have been together for over 8 and a 1/2 years and he brings her more joy than she could ever imagine as a child. She loves to read and has been hooked on the romance genre ever since her lifelong best friend Laura gave her “Ashes to Ashes’ by Tami Hoag to read when they were younger.
Ashley finds her strength through her family, especially her parents. They always support her in life; they push her to strive for greatness. There once was a motto that Ashley heard in her youth through her Taekwondo life ‘Reach for the Stars’ and that is what Ashley has always done. It was through her upbringing that the values Ashley has and displays come from. With her parents always cheering her on in life she was able to grow up having faith in herself and her ability to conquer the world.
TITLE: Rush
SERIES #: Phoenix Rising #3
CHARACTERS: Quiad Legend & Jessica Fury
AUTHOR: Joan Swan
PUBLICATION DATE:
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Jessica Fury, Washington lobbyist, has money, connections, and her own firm. But five years ago she had something better: happiness. Her firefighter husband, Quaid, was handsome, courageous, and crazy about her. Then one day he walked into a chemical inferno—and never walked out. Jessica has been through hell to get back on her feet. And then a rumor surfaces that could bring a miracle or shatter her world – again.
Q has been a prisoner forever. He’s honed his mind and body into weapons. He’s developed abilities no one else understands. But he’s still at the mercy of a cabal of ruthless men, who blank his memory, test him like a lab rat, and tell him lies. Although his past has been erased and his future looks grim, instinct tells him he has a woman to live for. What his mind can’t remember, his body can’t forget…
The heat is on.
REVIEW:
OH!!! Quaid & Jessica’s story. So excited to read this one!!! This story was good, hard, emotional and amazing all at the same time.
Quaid & Jessica’s story is an emotional roller coaster ride. After five long years of mourning and living a life she should have never been living, Jessica just found out that her husband might be alive. But seeing is not always believing and it is going to take a lot to convince Jessica that this man is Quaid. While every member of their team can clearly see that it is indeed Quaid, Jessica can’t face the truth.
Quaid can’t remember the beautiful woman in front of him, but he knows her. He has dreamed about her for years. When she appears with a team of men to rescue him Quaid doesn’t know if this is another dream, the doctors messing with his head again, or if this is real. Soon Quaid learns that these people are very real and could possible cause him even more problems.
Quaid doesn’t know who to trust, what is real, or what his future holds. All he knows is that he needs Jessica by his side. But will he be able to handle the fact that she is not telling him the whole truth.
This was a great story. Made me cry! Made me scream in frustration!! Made me want more!!!! I really can’t wait to see what Joan has in store for us next in the Phoenix Rising Series but I really, really , really hope (and Joan you better be reading this) that we are going to get an update story on Quaid & Jessica. Not just cameo’s in the next books. But another story even if it is a novella. I need an update on them already.
I just really need to know are Quaid and Jessica good? Any memories back yet? Any babies??
My inquiring mind needs to know Joan!!!
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
