Friday, May 29, 2015

Book Blast & Giveaway: Twists of Fate by Christina OW





Twists of Fate by Christina OW  

Book Blurb:
Life had been great these past few weeks. I have a hot boyfriend, got back my dad and my adopted sisters were happy with their significant others. Life was good. That is until I started getting attacked by bouts of pain that would render me unconscious. Something was wrong with me, Ash knew but he wasn’t sharing. Worse than that, Steve in the worst form possible is back to haunt me. And Ash with his hug archaic pride just won’t let it go. Oh, but I haven’t gotten to the worst part yet…hell!
What’s a girl to do to get some long term happiness?
Dukkha Fate Series
- Sweet Romance.
-Sweet Romance
-Interracial, Multicultural, New Adult, Paranormal, Werewolf.
-Hero is Native American, heroine is African American with East African origins.

When a man with an ancient grudge meets and falls in love with the innocent girl who's life was ruined by his vendetta, complicated isn't word enough to describe the situation he finds himself in. His chance with her would be shot to hell if she were to find out his role in her family's death. She would probably take the news that he was 325 year old werewolf much better.

Get the series preview The Beginning FREE https://christinaow.wordpress.com/fate-series/the-begining/



Christina OW writes suspense, thrillers, erotica, interracial and multicultural romance books. She is the author of Contemporary, Fantasy, Paranormal Romance books and a poet of currently 3 titles. She loves reading novels that take her on a ride of wild emotions. Books have always been an escape for her, for a few hours she gets to live the lives of characters she grows to cherish and admire. She's always had an active imagination and because of it has lived in her head more than she has been in the outside world. She always imagined scenarios and wondered how they would turn out in the end, and what kind of emotions they would invoke. Thus began her writing career.

1.      What genre(s) do you write? Romance in contemporary, paranormal and fantasy. My characters are IR/MC couples.

2.      What was the hardest part of writing your book? The writing. There is this meme about having voices in your head. For authors we need those voices, those characters, in writing the book because when they go silent, I end up staring at a blank page for hours even days. It’s not fun at all especially when there deadline is looming in the horizon.

3.      Are you a plotter or a pantser? Both. Before I begin a book, I plot it out. How I would like it to begin, the climax, the conflict and finally the ending. But sometimes the book takes a life of it’s on and the only thing that stuck to the plan was the beginning.

4.      How long have you been a writer?  Five years.

5.      How much time did it take from writing your first book to having it published? The first book I ever wrote just got published in January- Fate Reborn. So I would say from the first word written to publication, four and a half years.

6.      What other careers have you had? I have a BA in International Studies and Communications & Media, and a Diploma in Law. I worked at a law firm, and a fashion house while studying. But at the moment, I’m a writer and a fashion designer. This is where the ‘We make plans and God laughs’ joke comes in.

7.      What else would you like readers to know about you or your work? My books are just different social circumstances and how I think I would react to them. For example, a cheating boyfriend? Would I just burst up his stuff or other things on his body his emotionally attached to?

8.      What is your favorite vacation spot? Mombasa, Kenya. It’s beautiful, it’s hot and has the best night life during the holidays. It’s also home, nothing beats that.

9.      Which food could you not live without? Chocolate. I would wither away without chocolate.

10.  If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you travel? Italy. There is just something about Italy that has me drooling over it.

11.  Do you have siblings? What was it like growing up with them? Yes, a twin, and an older sister. Growing up, let’s just say, it was complicated. No one likes to share but people seem to think just because you’re a twin, it’s a given.

12.  Do you have a favorite snacks that you drink when you write? Orange juice, chutney chips and chocolate chip cookies


Enter the Rafflecopter Giveaway for a chance to win a $20 Amazon Gift card and other giveaways. For multiple entries visit Christina OW’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pages/Christina-OW/254729541266869?sk=app_228910107186452




Author Links


Monday, May 18, 2015

Cover Reveal: Insignificant - The Goldenrod Series # 1 by @KLincolnWrites @sparklebooktour

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Presented by: Sparkle Book Tours
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Insignificant - The Goldenrod Series # 1
by Kelly Lincoln

 
Audience: New Adult 18+ - Genre: Romantic Suspense - Format: E-book and Paperback - Publisher: Kelly Lincoln - Cover by: Najla Qamber Designs. Cover photo by Lindee Robinson Photography - Editor: Editing 4 Indies - Date Published: 6/10/15
 
 
blurb
Due to explicit language, sexual content, and dark themes, reader discretion is advised.
When Taylor was four years old, she became an orphan and her childhood spiraled into darkness. She spent years lying, hiding, and avoiding any love offered to her until she was old enough to run away from all the threats of her past.
Now twenty-two, Taylor doesn’t think she’s worth more than being the kind of girl a guy hooks up with in the back room of a bar after her band plays. She definitely isn’t the one you bring home to meet Mom and Dad.
An unlikely rescue puts her in Ethan’s sight. He’s her total opposite, though. Ethan is a sexy dork who sees beyond Taylor’s guarded exterior. He sees past the tattoos and piercings. He sees her.
But they both have secrets capable of destroying their relationship. And if Taylor’s past ever catches up with her, the consequences could be deadly.
book links
add to goodreads
 
excerpt
My breath caught when he stood behind me to look over my shoulder. We weren’t touching, but my skin broke out in goosebumps and my body ached for contact with his. Heat swirled in my stomach at the thought. How easy would it be to lean back against that awesome chest and have those killer arms hug me? I gripped the table to keep myself from doing anything stupid.
“Beautiful,” he said softly.
“Cool.” I shined the enlarger on the paper and picked up the photo after I turned it off. Ethan was still behind me, and I swallowed as I turned around. Looking at him in this sexy orange lighting was really—
A quiet popping noise invaded our silent room, and the orange light went out, leaving us in darkness. I flinched in surprise, brushing against Ethan. He put his hands on my arms. "The light burned out."
I laughed, trying to distract myself from my tingly arms. "Yeah, Captain Obvious. I can tell."
He laughed softly. "I have another one, I'll go change it. We just have to..." His grip tightened, and he drew me closer to him as he turned me so we switched places. One hand moved off my arm and to my back as his voice dropped. "Trade places. Because it’s on the shelf.”
"Right," I whispered. When he moved us, I dropped the paper, but I really couldn’t have cared less now that his arms were around me. Without thinking, I reached out and held my breath when my fingers brushed against smooth skin. I trailed to the side and found his hair. Moving along the side of his face, I stopped right before his chin and hesitated. Touching him was so ballsey. He might not want me doing this.
When I stopped, he let out a soft groan, and his fingers moved under the hem of my shirt, barely grazing the skin of my lower back. I took a shaky breath and raised my other hand, tracing the planes of his face, the one line across his forehead, the rise and fall of his glasses, the bridge of his nose, and the indent in his chin, so slight it was barely noticeable. His thin top lip. His full bottom one. Over and over again, and his breaths came out deep as his fingers kept moving lightly against my bare skin.
I whimpered as he put his other hand on the side of my face. Fucking whimpered.
“I like this,” he whispered as his fingers followed my eyebrows, over the piercing and down toward my cheek.
I kept tracing his lips as he touched me, all too aware of the strong ache between my legs. “Me too,” I breathed.
My pulse echoed in my head as his hand rested under my chin with his thumb on my lip ring. Neither one of us moved.
I couldn’t fucking handle it anymore. “Ethan?”
“Yes?” his soft voice replied.
“Kiss me already.”


about the author
 
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Kelly Lincoln is pretty lame but she’s okay with that. She enjoys reading, inappropriate jokes, all things Disney, and spending time with her family. She lives in the northeast and drinks way too much Diet Coke.
For character bios, playlists, and news about upcoming releases, please visit www.kellylincoln.com. You can also find Kelly when she’s avoiding writing on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AuthorKellyLincoln?ref=aymt_homepage_panel or on Twitter @KLincolnWrites.
 
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Thursday, May 14, 2015

Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Seducing Death by @Author_C_Lawson

Seducing Death Banner 851 x 315

 

bookblast

 

 

clip_image002Seducing Death

Moon Virus

Book 3

Cassandra Lawson

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Date of Publication: 4/29/2015

ISBN: 978-1508860143

ASIN: B00UPPH8OG

Number of pages: 314

Word Count: 91,818

Book Description:

In the decade following the brutal murder of his wife and daughter, Ian has existed in a world built on grief and hatred. Just when Ian has finally begun to claw his way through the shadows of his past, a knife to the heart ends it all . . . . or is it the beginning?

After waking up in a strange home, Ian’s only companion is the woman who saved him. Undeniably drawn to her, Ian finds himself wondering if it really is possible to love again.

Trapped in a world where she is little more than a pawn for the Fae, Kyleigh long ago accepted the reality of her existence. She is no one’s savior and no one’s guardian angel; she is death. That is until she breaks all the rules to save a vampire many believe beyond salvation. Ian sparks a passion she never believed possible and reawakens emotions she thought long buried.

While secluded in a realm between life and death, Ian and Kyleigh are free to explore their feelings for each other. When enemies past and present join forces to destroy those Ian loves they are forced to leave the safety of Kyleigh’s realm. Can their fragile bond survive when they are faced with the demons of Ian’s past?

Amazon Amazon UK Amazon CA Amazon AU iTunes

This is part of a series, however Seducing Death is a standalone novel,

and can be read without the first two books.

Book One, Raven’s Blood, is free on Amazon, iTunes,

Barnes and Noble, and Smashwords.

excerpt

Kyleigh stopped listening to their conversation as the cold breeze of the shadows grew nearer. Time was almost up, and she still didn’t have a plan to save Ian’s life. The smart thing to do was to walk away knowing she’d done her best, but she’d watched Ian too long. No, she would not give up when Ian’s soul was so close to redemption.

“Maybe we should head back in. I’ll message Connor and see what he thinks,” Ian’s friend said, but it was too late. Both vampires heard the danger approaching. His friend pulled out the handheld crossbow and a knife while Ian drew two knives.

“Well, isn’t this a stroke of luck,” called out a human as he emerged from the woods followed by six others.

“Are you having some trouble, human?” Ian asked casually. His hands had dropped to his sides, but he still held the knives. This came as no surprise. She’d seen him in action enough to know this vampire rarely let his guard down.

“I think you already have,” the human said.

Kyleigh saw the inner struggle in both vampires. They obviously suspected the humans were up to no good, but both were too noble to kill them without provocation. That was new for Ian. No longer shrouded in darkness, Ian wouldn’t kill unless he had to.

Several other vampires stepped out of the trees, surrounding Ian and his friend. Kyleigh was all too familiar with this type of vampire. These creatures kept her busy many days. Quickly scanning the group, she found that all the innocent souls had been freed. With this newer virus they were sometimes trapped in the undead body, which was a form of torture she wouldn’t wish on the most evil person. She had yet to figure out how that was even possible, or why one of her kind wasn’t summoned to free the poor soul.

Ian and his friend reacted immediately. The knives in Ian’s hands found their marks in the hearts of two vampires, and Ian’s friend shot the crossbow at another vampire. Kyleigh watched the battle before her with a sense of helplessness. They were too outnumbered and there was no way to win. Even now, the shadows moved in, hungry for death and sin. Rubbing her arms against the cold breeze that preceded the shadows, she watched in horror as Ian was surrounded.

A scream no one would hear escaped her lips when the knife sliced through Ian’s chest. He collapsed to the ground, blood soaking the leaves. Her form wavered in and out with her rage. Despair began to settle around her, but she refused to let it control her. Ian was too close to being saved to lose him now. Whatever it took, the shadows would not claim his soul.

“Take the blond alive!” shouted one of the humans, obviously referring to Ian’s friend. “Damaged is fine, but he has to survive with no damage to his face!”

Determination flashed in Ian’s eyes, and his soul brightened as he worked hard to conceal his phone while sending a message. Then he buried the phone. Soon the blond vampire was unconscious, and Ian was struggling for life.

“Should we finish off the other one?” asked one of the humans. “Looks like he’s still alive.”

Kyleigh held her breath, praying to a god who’d long ago abandoned her that they would just leave.

The leader laughed. “Looks like he’s in a lot of pain,” he said with a vicious sneer.

The urge to use violence against the human who obviously enjoyed the pain of others came as a surprise to Kyleigh. It was a relief when they left the area so she could make her way toward Ian. His weakened state meant she had only seconds to save his life. Her decision made, she emerged from the trees, becoming visible to Ian.

Ian’s beautiful green eyes opened and focused on her as she approached him.

“Kate.” His voice was barely a whisper.

“Don’t worry,” she said in a soft reassuring voice, trying to hide her fear as the shadows closed in around them. “You’re going to be okay, but we need to get you out of here.”

Wrapping them in her power, she bound Ian’s soul to his body. Thankfully he picked that moment to lose consciousness, so she didn’t have to explain what was about to happen.

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abouttheauthor

Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?

Yes, I always wanted to be a writer, but I was afraid to that admit to anyone, including myself.

When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?

To be totally honest, I have days where I still don’t consider myself a writer. It seems a little unreal when I think about the fact that people pay to read my books.

Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?

I am also a homeschooling mom and the organizer for my local homeschool group. That keeps me very busy, and helps me remain committed to my caffeine addiction.

How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?

It takes me about 4 months to write a book, including rewrites and edits.

What can we expect from you in the future?  ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?

At least for the time being, I plan to continue writing paranormal romance. I have more books planned for both the Moon Virus series and the Psy-Vamp series. I am also working on a couple of unrelated stories.

What genre would you place your books into?

My books are paranormal romance. The Moon Virus series could also be considered a dystopian romance.

What made you decide to write that genre of book?

I’d never even read a vampire book when I wrote Vampires and Vixens more than fifteen years ago. That story came to me in bits and pieces from a dream. From there I developed a fascination with paranormal romance. I have not ruled out the possibility of writing in other genres because I never know what will inspire me.

Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?

I always listen to music when I write. If my husband is home, I lock myself in my office and put my headphones on so I can’t hear him roughhousing with our daughters.

Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?

Yes, I read the reviews, even though I know I probably shouldn’t. The reviews are written to help other readers, not me. Still, I always want to know what people think.

Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?

I have a very hard time coming up with titles for my books. In general, I don’t have a title until I am almost done writing a book.

Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?

That really depends on the character. For my main characters, I generally have them fully-formed in my mind before I start writing, but sometimes they surprise me. My supporting characters tend to develop more as the story progresses.

Are there any hidden messages or morals contained in your books? (Morals as in like Aesops Fables type of "The moral of this story is..")

I wouldn’t really say any of the messages are hidden, but I’ve noticed that they are occasionally misconstrued. The Moon Virus series definitely expresses my opinion on how dangerous extremists are. Conservative extremists were targeted most in Raven’s Blood, which ruffled some feathers. This series is also meant to show the dangers of dehumanizing entire groups of people. There are no real messages in my Psy-Vamp series.

Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?

I really prefer paperback or hardback, but my vision has gotten so bad that I mostly read eBooks now.

Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?

I don’t believe books transfer well to movies. For that reason, I either read the book or see the movie. Who am I kidding? I read the book.

Your favorite food is?

Black beans and rice. It’s my comfort food.

Your favorite singer/group is?

I don’t really have a favorite. I’m a bit of a rocker and enjoy most types of music.

Your favorite color is?

Red is my favorite color because I simply can’t be in a bad mood when I’m wearing red.

 

  giveaway

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

abouttheauthor

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Cassandra Lawson is a paranormal romance author and homeschooling mom from the San Francisco Bay area. She has always had a very active imagination and loves making up stories. When she is not writing she enjoys baking, spending time with her family, listening to music, or curling up with a good book.

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Author_C_Lawson

Blog: http://www.cassandralawson.com/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7103612.Cassandra_Lawson

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Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Book Blast & Giveaway- Shattered by JL Drake

 
 
 
SHATTERED

After witnessing the murder of her lover and the heartbreaking loss of their unborn child, Savannah wants to end it all.

Then she is given a second chance at love.

Sadly, even when life hands you second chances it doesn’t always follow that things will work out the way you want them to.

Some lies can just be too painful to move on from.

What’s worse than being Broken?
 
Shattered…

 
 
Excerpt:
 
“I’m sorry for what happen to you, but I’ll never be sorry for tracking you down and failing in love with you.”


 
Buy Links
 

 
 

About this author



J.L. Drake was born and raised in Nova Scotia, Canada and later moved to Southern California where she lives with her husband and two children.

She released her first novel "What Lurks in the Dark" in June 2014 but after the series got picked up by a publisher it was pulled. It will return late 2015. "Bunker 219" is found in the Unleash the Undead Anthology. Her "Broken" Trilogy is being released now, as well as, "All In," in the Second Chances anthology comes in June 2015.

Other places to find her,
 
 
 
Book 1
Broken buy links:
 
Giveaway
 
Ebook of Broken or Shattered by J.L. Drake

Monday, May 11, 2015

Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: After Life Lessons by Laila Blake and L.C. Spoering

After Life Lessons Banner 851 x 315_thumb[1]

 

bookblast

 

 

clip_image002_thumb[2]After Life Lessons

Book Two

Laila Blake and L.C. Spoering

Genre: post apocalyptic

Publisher: Lilt Literary

Date of Publication: April 28, 2015

Number of pages: 350

Word Count: 95.000

Cover Artist: Laila Blake

Book Description:

Years after the end of the world, the scattered survivors have begun to reconcile with their fate and are starting to build communities from the rubble. Life has been kind to Aaron and Emily, and maybe it is that infusion of hope that leads them on a winter trip to search for Aaron’s family. But the world outside their little haven has grown harsher, the conditions rough and dangerous.

Not everybody they meet on their journey allowed the grim realities to harden their hearts, however. Malachi and Kenzie - an easy-going drifter with a bum leg and amnesia, and a teenage girl who has lost everyone and everything - are on an ill-conceived mission to Mexico, while Iago and his band of nomads work to forge trading connections between the small settlements of the south.

All of them will discover new nightmares on the road, far surpassing the threat of the last rotting zombies still roaming the countryside. And now they must come together to fight for peace and justice in the world they trying to rebuild.

Warning: This novel contains language some might find offensive, some gore and situations of a sexual nature. Reader's discretion is advised.

excerpt

It was in the symmetry, of course. In the fifteen shocks of hair that fluttered in the breeze, as it swept a few leaves across the square. In the thirty pairs of shoes, all pointing up at the grey sky.

Emily took another step closer. She could hear her blood sloshing in her head, like she was underwater and she moved back again, turned away to watch Song. Sparrow started to fuss: even she could tell something was wrong. Very, very wrong. For once, Emily had no interest to investigate, no need to see what they could scavenge. She just wanted to pack up her children and run.

“Aaron,” she hissed. He was walking down the line of corpses, his shoulders stiff with anger, or grief, or maybe shattered faith. “Aaron!”

For the first time since their first days together, Aaron was a wall. He didn’t turn back to her, not until she was almost stomping her feet and biting her lip to keep from screaming. His gaze was blank when he did.

“They were executed.” His voice sounded like it was coming from the bottom of a well.

A shiver ran down her spine, and she found herself reaching for him. Her hand stilled in mid-air as though she’d only just noticed that he was much too far away. The breeze stirred the hairs on her arm and she let it sink, cradled her hand around Sparrow’s tiny head in a vestigial instinct to shield her.

“How… how do you know?” she asked, voice hardly loud enough to travel across the square.

He breathed in so deep, she found herself worrying about his ribs, imagined them crackling under the strain. He shook his head, nodded towards the ground.

“Hands are bound with zip ties,” he said eventually. “Looks like they were beaten before…”

“Come back here,” Emily said again, more urgently this time. “Please, baby.”

She could have been watching a movie, or one of those terrible war reports she remembered on the news from Before, the ones she would switch off before Song had time to understand what they were about. It occurred to her, then, that Aaron could have been one of those soldiers in the reports she was lucky enough to switch away from, replace his face with Big Bird, with John Cleese.

“There’s more behind the house,” he said in a monotone. She didn’t follow his gaze. “Must have been the entire neighborhood.”

“But… why?” Emily shook her head at herself almost immediately. Annika had been right: she had gotten cocky. She had forgotten all the things she’d seen after the end, before Aaron had made her forget that humans could be a disease upon the world, far more dangerous than the dead.

She sent one long last glance at Song, then she stepped out of his line of sight, hurried to Aaron’s side as quietly, as quickly as she could. She reached for his hand, squeezed it tight.

Her eyes were drawn downward almost against her will. They hadn’t wasted bullets. She stared at a line of fifteen gaping slits in fifteen throats, like fifteen twisted smiles. “They haven’t been dead for long, have they?”  

He tipped his head back and seemed to peer directly into the bare late autumn sun before he looked back at the blood at their feet. “A week maybe,” he said. “Probably less. Hardly decomposed at all.”

She tightened her hold on his hand, tugged once.

“We can’t stay here.” She enunciated every word, slowly, quietly, trying to get through to him. They had slept peacefully, less than half an hour away from this spot. They’d had no idea. “Aaron. We can’t stay here.”

He didn’t respond right away, and it made her heart pound harder in her chest. There had been a night, years before, when he’d told her he’d never really talked about his time in the desert, that he’d never seen the point, and though she’d disagreed, they’d never spoken of it again. She wanted to kick herself now.

“Aaron,” she said, voice terse. “Song and Sparrow.” He finally stirred with those words.

“Get ‘em back in the trailer,” he instructed.

  character

Character Name: Kenzie

Character Bio:

The name’s Kenzie, I’m like 16. Maybe 15. It’s getting kinda hard to keep track. I was the oldest of five, but now it’s just me left. I’m Korean, well, American - but people always ask where I’m from, so: Korea. My dad was anyway. My mum was born here, like me.

When the whole zombie craziness happened, we moved to my uncle’s - my mom’s brother. Her family were farmers, so it worked out well. I don’t know, I guess I was a normal kid before, but I don’t remember all that much. Mostly I remember the three years at the farm, how everybody was always afraid, and how we tried to help survivors when they came alone or in pairs.

But then dad got bit, and he infected all the others. I was alone for a while, and then I met Mali. That’s pretty much it.

It’s a regular Cinderella story, right? Just add in some singing mice or something.

 

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Describe yourself what is your worst and best quality?

Best quality is that I’m brave, and I kick ass. I’m also way smarter than grown-ups give me credit for. And I don’t have bad qualities. ‘Cept possibly that I’m not all that modest. But that’s totally a pre-zombie times trait, anyway.

What is the one thing you wish other people knew about you?

I don’t really want people to know all that much about me, if you know what I’m saying. Makes them think they get you, makes them all understanding. That’s what I want people to know: Don’t try to get me.

What are you most afraid of?

I’m not afraid anymore. What’s that word? I transcended fear. Booya.

What is your relationship status?

Ew. Single. Do you know what it’s like to live after the world ends? Two letters: B.O. -- Also, I don’t know, everybody’s either too old, or too dead, or whatever. And it’s not like I’m dying to date anyone. Ha. Pun.

How would you describe your sense of fashion?

Apocalypse-ragged? It’s all the rage, I tell you. Basically, you wear anything that fits and keeps you warm and you only throw it out when it’s in shreds… or a zombie goes all goo on you. Ew. No way of getting that smell out without a washer and dryer.

How much of a rebel are you?

Apart from the fact that there isn’t all that much to rebell against anymore, sure. If that means I don’t always do what people tell me to do.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?

I’m still alive?

What is your idea of happiness?

Are you kidding? Probably having the rest of the world be alive and not dead, don’t you think?

What is your most marked characteristic?

Before, I might have said something like my sense of humor. I tell a really good joke. But now, I don’t know, probably being stubborn. You have to be to survive in a world like this, kind of like you’re flipping off the universe.

What is it that you most dislike?

Besides zombies? Probably people acting like I’m a dumb-headed kid just because I’m short.

Which living person do you most despise?

I stopped thinking like that when I realized my fourth grade teacher, who totally sucked, was dead, and so was the mean cashier at the store down the block from my parents’ restaurant, along with, like, my best friend from kindergarten. What was the point of hating anyone?

What is your greatest regret?

Maybe not being nicer to my parents.

Who is your favorite hero in fiction?

Katniss Everdeen. Of course. I wish I could shoot arrows like her, but I’m better with a knife. I would have kicked ass in the Hunger Games.

Which living person do you most admire?

There’s no one left to admire. Maybe Mali, because he’s the only person left I know, but also because he’s not dead even though he’s all busted up. That’s pretty cool.

If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?

Maybe I’d make myself nicer. I’m always real quick to tell people off.

What is your motto?

Motto? Really? Uh, ‘never say die?’ Or, like, ‘shoot first, ask questions later.’

 

  giveaway

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

abouttheauthor

clip_image004_thumb[1]Laila Blake is an author, linguist and translator. She writes character-driven love stories and blogs about writing, feminism and society. Her work has been featured in numerous anthologies. Keeping a balance between her different interests, Laila Blake’s body of work encompasses literary erotica, romance, and various fields in speculative fiction (dystopian/post-apocalypse, fantasy, paranormal romance and urban fantasy) and she adores finding ways to mix and match.

A self-proclaimed nerd, she lives in Cologne/Germany with her cat Liene, harbors a deep fondness for obscure folk singers and plays the guitar badly. She loves photography, science documentaries and classic literature as well as a number of popular TV-Shows.

http://www.lailablake.com/

https://twitter.com/LailaJBlake

https://www.facebook.com/LailaBlakeAuthor

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6829033.Laila_Blake

https://www.pinterest.com/stainsofblue/

http://stainsofblue.tumblr.com/

https://instagram.com/lailajblake/

https://plus.google.com/101280102174058433862/posts

clip_image006_thumb[1]L.C. Spoering has a degree in English writing from University of Colorado, and a lesser degree in sarcasm earned from the days of yore on AOL. A storyteller since she started talking, she now spends her days writing, reading and contemplating the universe through various pop culture lenses.

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Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Circle of Sun by @kimluke_

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clip_image002Circle of Sun
Circle of Sun Series
Book 1
Kim Luke
Genre: Fantasy
Cover Artist: Anne and Marshal Tezon at Personal Chapters
Book Description:
Something is wrong in White Oak, MO After a deadly climbing accident, 30-year-old Quinn Clarke loses her job and retreats to the sleepy Missouri riverside town of White Oak to heal her fractured body and rebuild her life. But the tourist village, with its wineries, quaint shops and rich history, turns out to be anything but sleepy.
Something is wrong with the water in White Oak. Birds are dying and bizarre weather conditions threaten the town’s future. Quinn is sucked into the chaos, beginning with a mystery woman who delivers a message suggesting her climbing tragedy was no accident. Quinn meets handsome detective Keefe Remington, then visits nearby Royce Estate. She loses her way and her peace of mind on that visit and is confused and unprepared for what lies behind the massive stone walls and how she is somehow connected to the Royce family.
The first book of the Circle of Sun series takes Quinn from main street bookstore owner to unlikely heroine and straight into a darkness that could turn White Oak into a battlefield . . . and into her destiny.
Book Trailer https://youtu.be/0k3GDE87Ud8

Available at www.kimlukeauthor.com

Amazon BN Smashwords Createspace
excerpt
No one will visit his final resting place. In death, as in life, his name had long been associated with broken promises, broken rules and broken lives. He embraced nothing, and was embraced by nothing. His only lasting impression was darkness, keeping even the most forgiving souls from speaking a kind word about him, even in death. A brisk October wind forces a tighter clenching of the scarf covering her throat. The only sound heard is the crunch and swish of fallen leaves as she walks to the pauper's section of the cemetery. She pauses, and kneels with devotion to the memory of Colton LaMont. Melanie clears debris and places a few flowers upon the site. Sorrowful tears fall for her undeclared love, and the parched and thirsty soil drinks.
Chapter 1
Brilliant sunlight floods the rock face we climb. The quartz veins in the limestone shimmer near my gloved hand. The two of us scale the forty-five foot challenge with ease. We take pictures of one another.
Alec teases me about my pink camera, and my sloppy climbing technique. We gather our gear and walk across to the next plateau, passing crevices and brush. He leads, and I follow. His sandy hair dances with every September gust. Alec's shoulders are broad and he is tall compared to my petite frame. His body is fit and the bronze of his skin reveals seasons of living to the fullest. Alec is beautiful. The adage might be true that opposites attract. He is dark, and I am fair. Alec thrives on adventures while I find adventure in books and history. I am not glamorous like the women I would pair with his kind, but his love for me is pure. I don't have to be anything more than what I am, making me love him even more, if it were possible.
The azure sky is a breathtaking backdrop for puffy white clouds to sail by. This day is magical only because I am alone with him.
Alec jogs back in the direction of our last climb when I realize my camera is missing, and I continue on the trek to set up for our next climb. I grow uneasy; does he need my help? He's been gone too long, and I try to stay calm as I make my way back to the top of the ledge.
"Alec...Alec!" I say, but no answer comes.
Eyeing the ledge, my fear mounts and can no longer be ignored. Panic grips me and without hesitation I make my way to the drop off. I slowly peek over. His voice behind me says my name.
"Quinn!"
Turning, I am blinded by the searing rays of the afternoon sun. I see only a tall shadow before large hands violently shove my shoulders with such force I am thrust over the rock wall. My scream fills the canyon. I am free falling down, down. My lungs ache for a breath in this deep darkness. I am suffocating. I experience excruciating pain and ultimate despair. All hope escapes my consciousness.
Sound and sight are extinct now. My world is black.
Warmth surrounds my feet and travels slowly up my body. My afflictions are gone. My eyelids are open, to a foreign place. I rise and begin to walk, but my feet don't touch the sand. I float along a quiet shoreline. The sterling sea is calm. Without sun or moon this place is neither day nor night, but dusk-like. Through the mist a figure approaches.
Her body glides towards me. She is draped in shimmering silver, her face expressionless. Her gaze is not at me, but beyond me.
Curious, I turn, only infinite shoreline. My quivering hands cover my racing heart.
She seems to sense my fear as she studies me. Large round eyes peer into mine, into my soul. Her blank expression is replaced with tender mercy. Her friendly eyes promise no harm. I am no longer afraid. I can't see, but I feel her smile. She is blissful; her immense joy radiates around her like sparkling crystals.
My face is now wet from the mist, yet her ivory skin is smooth and dry. Before I can form words, she does.
"No one can prepare for a time as this. The sun itself fades in brilliance a bit with each passing day. Eyes look but do not see. Purity drains from the hearts of good men. Find the Circle of Sun. A tender seed must push through bitter soil to survive," she says and points behind me. "Let the prints lead you."
The footprints behind me are mine.
She interrupts my thoughts.
"Follow their path to your sun."
I bask in her radiant warmth as her graceful hand touches my face.
Her gaze never leaves me as she glides away.
I watch as she melts into the distance. I want to follow, but she is gone. Few and unclear were her words. All I can do is begin. I turn and take the first step.
My heavy eyelids open to blurred edges of brilliant color, strange bouquets cover the ceiling. I blink to focus and the scene becomes clear. Taped to the ceiling are vivid crayon-filled pictures, children's artwork thoughtfully placed for those waking up.
Suddenly a face casts a smile down at me.
"Dr. Crenshaw is here to check in on you," says a nurse.
"Quinn, how are you feeling? Your surgical procedure went very well, and with your recent progress, we can begin to discuss getting you out of here after all of these months. I am sure you are ready," the doctor says.
I am completely baffled by this conversation and I struggle to communicate. My confusion is obvious to him and he pats my hand. Me? In the hospital for months? I am disconnected to reality, free falling again.
"You are still groggy, I will be back in the afternoon to check in on you," he says kindly.
My drowsy state can only mean I am still dreaming. The memory of the misty grey ocean beckons and I remember the mystical place. Desperate to return to the silver shoreline, I fall into sleep hoping to see her again.
During the next week reality rolls in like an unwelcomed storm. Added to confusion is loss. Alec is gone. Pain permeates every fiber of my being, and the waves of grief crest and ebb. Hikers found us at the bottom of the rock face, Alec dead and me clinging to life. In death, Alec saved my life, his body breaking my fall. I am horrified at the picture this paints in my mind. Alec is gone, and even though I survived the accident, I will need months of recovery. Investigators did not seriously consider what I told them about being pushed. My pink camera was never found, perhaps it never existed. Trauma can produce false memories, they explained. The only logical theory of what happened on the cliff has been difficult to accept. Alec fell and my shock at seeing him dead, caused me to fall too. Although I could not identify who the shadowy figure was, I know it was Alec's voice making me to turn. How is it possible? If he pushed me, how could his body break my fall? I can't put the pieces together. As my body heals, answers elude me. I recall the panic as I approached the edge. I heard Alec's voice behind me saying my name. I was blinded by the sun. I remember hands forcefully pushing me. It's not possible. Alec would never hurt me. I reluctantly accept their version of the accident as reality. Logically it makes sense, so I struggle to recapture my confidence and stabilize my mental state.
 
 
clip_image004Black Inferno
Circle of Sun Series
Book 2
Kim Luke
Genre: Fiction Fantasy
Date of Publication: March 28, 2015
ISBN: 1508936234
Number of pages: 218
Word Count: 79,999
Cover Artist: Anne and Marshall Tezon
Personal Chapters
Book Description:
The second installment in the Circle of Sun series finds the Guardians on a quest to save a city of innocent souls from potential decimation by illness and some seemingly innocuous chocolates.
As some of the Guardians are battling unseen evil away from home, their former leader and patriarch is falsely imprisoned and his daughter disappears. What does it take to recover another Fidesorb?
The discovery of a secret society of Guardians has created a new reality for Quinn Clarke and her friends in the little riverside town of White Oak. The first Quest with Quinn as the Polaris to the Circle of Sun transports our Guardians to a suspended season in time. Wearing the armor of faith, will they be able to rescue a city of innocent souls spellbound by a faceless enemy? Is the return of tranquility to White Oak after the defeat of the River People only the calm before the storm?
As new ties of friendship are laced, they quickly become restrictive and threatening. A tragic turn of events puts Romulus in danger of losing his freedom, and Sapphire is missing, leaving the Circle of Sun fractured and vulnerable.
Will a victorious Quest cost lives on the home front? What secrets lie within the lush rolling vineyards, hidden oak barrels, the Grand Royce Estate and even Fireside Books?
In the second installment of the Circle of Sun, our characters must grow into courageous defenders of light, if they are to break free of the vast and sticky web of deceit that threatens them. Their goal is to recover another precious Fidesorb so it can be returned to its rightful place in the angelic realms.

Book Video https://youtu.be/NkJvzjpZcpk

Available at www.kimlukeauthor.com

Amazon BN Smashwords Createspace


excerpt
Quinn can't sleep. She takes in the view of the rolling Missouri hills from her window at Royce Estate. At first glance she could be any woman, but Quinn Clarke Royce is no ordinary woman, not any more. Since discovering her family and being chosen as the new Polaris to the Circle of Sun, there is little remaining of her former life. Quinn and those she loves navigate in a new world as Guardians. The lack of sleep is a fraction of the price she will pay while growing into a leadership role that defies reality. Few days remain before the announcement of the Quest. A selected Guardian must accept before knowing any details about the Quest, and only Quinn knows a Quest can take them to a place untouched by the passage of time.
Her past days of collecting and selling books, merchandizing and marketing, are replaced by a crash course in the angelic realms. She's learned the various ranks of Guardians, Sleepers, Pathfinders and Knights and the existence of Living Stones and how they are used to measure the balance of goodness. Like opening the cover of a book and reading a fantastic tale of the battle between light and dark, her journey now spans the ages.
Quinn's homeland, identified in the angelic realm as Nadellawick is peaceful this night, but only a short time ago the battle raged, destroying the evil Petulah and her River People. The victory over the darkness and recovery of a missing Fidesorb in Nadellawick was celebrated by everyone except one. A storm brews and bubbles and a thick fog moves in from the river.
Chapter One
White Oak, Missouri
Present Day
There is nothing good about a bad dream, except waking up. His new reality is a walking nightmare. The initial shock faded but his hopelessness remains. The emptiness is constant, his existence black like this moonless night.
The windshield wipers cannot compete with the driving storm. Wheels careen around a sharp curve high on the bluff. The lost soul pushes harder on the accelerator, inching closer to the white line. Air fills his lungs as he inhales for the last time. A loud and deafening crack of lightening jolts the senses of this broken man and illuminates the road and a figure before him. Thud! A sudden impact thrusts the car into a spin, ripping a path into the opposite ditch. He lies motionless, sprawled across the seat. Regardless of his intent, consciousness returns in fuzzy lined scenes. The engine is dead, but he is not. Headlights show nothing but pellets of rain cutting through the darkness. For a moment he forgets the incident that put him there. Nothing happens when he turns the key. The driver side door can't be opened so he slides to the passenger side for exit. With the vehicle at a steep angle, the weight of the door flies open and dumps him into the saturated roadside.
Attempts to stand are thwarted by the relentless wind. Not wearing boots his shoes fill with water as he sloshes through the tall grasses. Relieved when his feet reach pavement, he scans the perimeter for a victim. The gusts whip drops that sting, making the search difficult. A flickering light between boulders at the bluffs edge captures his attention. Could it be a signal for help? The massive rock is slippery, but his second attempt finds a small foothold to boost himself up. The boulder places him even higher above the dangerous rim. Unsteady against the punishing winds he crouches down. The source of the mysterious flashing illuminates his wide-eyed gaze and nature muffles his terrified gasp. The empty man searches for signs of life amidst the blood and bits of fur. Motionless, he stands as the familiar moves and reveals itself to him. On this night, seconds before his life should have ended, he finds the reason to go on.
authorinterview
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
I have always wanted to be a writer, and felt most comfortable with words and books instead of numbers and exact sciences. But life’s path takes mysterious detours (earning a living) and it wasn’t until 3.5 years ago I started writing full time.
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
I secretly always called myself a writer, but never uttered the word to a human ear until after writing and publishing my first book. However it wasn’t until the second book that I felt I had paid enough dues that I could call myself a writer with finished books to support the claim. I like saying it now.
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
Black Inferno invites a reader to step out of their own backdoor into a fantasy world that exists all around them.
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
I have self-published both of my books, which is a learning process in itself.
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
The good news is, the time is getting shorter from idea inception to finished product. First book took me 2 years, and second one about 1.5. I have learned so much, I am hoping to cut substantial time, and have more fun in the process.
What can we expect from you in the future?  ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
Currently I am outlining for the Book 3 in the Circle of Sun Series (fantasy genre) I have another storyline waiting in the wings that would be a thriller/mystery.
What genre would you place your books into?
Fantasy
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
 
Do you remember when you first started forming your favorite music playlist, or your decorating style, wardrobe or reading list? After time a pattern emerges and we know exactly where we belong and what we like. The mystery genre was known immediately to me, but the fantasy aspect was like a surprise guest who came for dinner uninvited, we really hit it off. I guess I invited them to stay awhile.
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?
This is tough, I love each of them endlessly. I enjoy writing the antics of Jexis Royce. She is always a complete surprise. She doesn’t like to follow rules, conform, or share her plans . . . but she is magnificent in the clutch situations and she likes to drink.
How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?
I wrote quite a bit in high school, mostly poetry. I enjoyed creative writing in college, and was always so excited for assignments. I really have no idea about the original inspiration, but it feels good to write. The process transports me. I was a wild, ferocious reader so the seeds of the written word came from that interest.

     
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
I have music playing softly, or I will even use only sounds. For example when I wrote about my character Pony going to the cemetery in the middle of the night, my background sounds were crickets, an owl hooting, and some wind through the trees. When I was writing a scene in a tunnel, I had some background dripping water that echoed. I have a little writing studio that I love. I like coffee and to get right at it. I work at a desk for hours, then switch to a soft chair.
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
Yes
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?
The title is the “cherry on top” for me. I do it when the book is completely finished.
How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?
I love naming characters. People watching is good practice . . . “what would you guess his/her name might be?” I like to use Latin, Greek, American Indian and Romanian roots to suit the storyline. I have used names from people I like and some of my relations. I have chosen street names from important places/times in my life. Why not choose a name for a character/street/city that has meaning to you?
Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?
With character name choosing, I usually know what the character is going to be about, so I name them with that in mind. The name gives me a “handle” to begin to create the nuances and build richness into that character. Places and things are fun to name and are easier customers than people naming, in my opinion.
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
I have that completely formed before I start writing. But the traits do bloom along the way and that is a nice surprise. If you have the character “pegged” it’s easy to figure out how they will react because that foundation is already solid. Just when you are starting to figure things out, the character may act in the opposite way if the storyline calls for it, and that is why people like my storylines.
Are there any hidden messages or morals contained in your books? (Morals as in like Aesops Fables type of "The moral of this story is..")
Faith and hope, perseverance and light.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
All of it is just fine with me, but if I had to choose one it would be hardback.
Your favorite food is?
I love a good cheese with bread/cracker and wine. And I like everything else too.
Your favorite color is?
Green
 
 
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  abouttheauthor
 





























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Author Kim Luke once had to help a customer at her family Christmas tree farm chop down a fresh tree in a business suit and heels. She was comfortable in that attire, the “uniform” of her marketing profession. She was not as comfortable as a Christmas tree farmer, but she’s learned to be supportive in this family endeavor.
The tree farm is located in Missouri, the setting for both of Kim’s two novels in her Circle of Sun series. A literature major in college, Luke has always enjoyed a good story and loves using her imagination. Of her many passions, writing has been with her the longest.
The cornerstones in her life are her faith and family. Kim and husband Bob are blessed with three children, incredible in-laws and three grandchildren. The Lukes live with their Alaskan Malamute dog on a beautiful 20 acre farm, where Kim indulges her love of books, coffee, wine and positive thinkers.
You can connect with Kim at www.kimlukeauthor.com, on Facebook at Circle of Sun or on Twitter, @kimluke. She is also a Goodreads author.
Web/blog- kimlukeauthor.com
Twitter: kimluke_
Facebook: circleofsun/kimluke
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5818830.Kim_Luke