July 16, 2013 by Tina Williams

A Novel Idea from Author Mary Raimes Curtis – Read Candle Without a Flame

Read this Exciting Tale FREE on Mary’s New Blog and Read on for an Excerpt from Chapter 2!

I’ve reviewed one of author Mary Raimes Curtis’ books, Luscious and Lethal (The Gilded River Chronicles), a Romantic Suspense, on this blog and have also read her novel Taming the Hawk, a historical romance novel set in Victorian England, which were both fantastic reads, with memorable characters and plots.

Mary is now serializing one of her novels entitled Candle Without A Flame online on her new blog, entitled A Writer’s Journey, in which, amongst other endeavours, she says that she is able,

“to do something I had long wanted to try, serialize one of my stories. Just as Dickens and others writers did in the Victorian era………………. Candle Without A Flame, a story about a child musical prodigy who faces the loss of her beloved parents. A misstep by her guardian leaves her in the hands of an unscrupulous manager. I do hope you come along as we follow Erin on her rocky journey from despair to the creation of a new life”.

I thought that I would share this with you as it gives readers a great opportunity to check out her writing style and read one of her stories over the coming months. Read on if you would like to read an excerpt from Chapter 2 of the book, which Mary has kindly permitted us to share with our readers, and would like to find out the links to read more.

Excerpt from Candle Without A Flame: Chapter Two

‘Erin watched Zach turn away. His harsh words made her want to run, from him, from herself, from the past. Long-rejected memories spilled through dark cracks and swamped her. Still she floundered forward, wanting to outrun the veracity of what had been. She could hardly breathe as sorrow wound tight around her chest and blocked her throat. Then, suddenly, she stumbled and fell, cracking her knees on the cabin’s granite step and sprawled forward. Her head thudded on damp mossy ground, as the past she had denied for seven years, escaped and wouldn’t be denied.

Vaguely, she heard Zack call her name and felt the thud of his footsteps hurrying towards her. He was too late. Memory dragged her back to a place she didn’t want to be. She was twelve years old again and drained as she always was after a performance. Her mom and dad should have been back from their dig and sitting in the reserved seats at the Albert Hall. She had watched for them from the wings before stepping on stage. Her dad always sat in the aisle seat so he could stretch out his long legs. Adam, her parent’s friend, sat there now. A sense of tragedy made her feel ill. Still, the audience waited to hear her play so she tried to concentrate on giving the performance expected of a professional. Later, Adam took charge, cleaving through the well-wishers and autograph seekers and handed her into the waiting limo. The London townhouse was silent. The dining table set with glinting crystal and fine china, ready for the special late dinner planned for her mom and dad’s homecoming. Then Adam told her things she hadn’t wanted to acknowledge, then or now.’

Candle Without A Flame is serialized in A Writer’s Journey blog at: http://maryraimescurtis.blogspot.com/

You can read chapter 1 on Mary’s site, and chapter 2 in its entirety, by clicking on the link below. I am already hooked and can’t wait for the next instalment!

http://maryraimescurtis.blogspot.co.uk/p/candle-without-flame.html

You can also subscribe to the site so that you get regular updates delivered straight to your in box. Mary’s blog also showcases authors that she admires and has a special section for cat lovers, entitled CATAMANIA, which focuses on rescued feral cats in Nova Scotia. You can also read more about her other novels, Taming the Hawk and Luscious and Lethal on her blog. The fabulous cover art for Candle Without a Flame and Mary’s other novels was carried out by Marion Sipe.

Tina 🙂

Mary’s other novels:

July 9, 2013 by Tina Williams

Book Review of The Fall of the Misanthrope. I bitch, therefore I am, by Louise Wise

Louise Wise’s book. The Fall of the Misanthrope is currently available FREE on Amazon for a very short time. Billed as dark chick-lit, it is a modern day Cinderella like story, which also contains a great deal of humour. I reviewed the novel a while ago now when we didn’t have quite so many followers, so I’ve reblogged it in case you would like to check it out. The book is a great read and is in the FINAL of the eFestival of Words. Check out the Amazon links if interested.

Tina 🙂

Amazon UK
Amazon US:

areadersreviewblog

Romancing the Dark Side of Chick-Lit

I read Louise Wise’s sci-fi romance Eden, last year and really liked her voice. I was intrigued by the title of her more recent publication, The Fall of the Misanthrope. I bitch, therefore I am, especially with its billing as a ‘dark chick-lit!’ Misanthrope is a deeply romantic and insightful tale, which deals with difficult issues and the healing power of love. It is also very humorous and made me laugh out loud on more than one occasion!

In the novel,Valerie Anthrope (Miss Anthrope – I loved the pun) is a young woman who runs a financial brokerage. Valerie is not only serious minded and hard working but, she can also be a bit of a bitch. She lives alone and keeps herself to herself, concluding that it is best not to care for anyone. There nevertheless resides within her a deep sadness and…

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July 8, 2013 by Tina Williams

Tangle of Need, #11 in the Psy-Changeling Series, Nalini Singh

Mating Bond versus Unconditional Love

I have been reading Nalini Singh’s Psy-Changeling Series since being bowled over by the first book, Slave to Sensation, which, like all that follow, is a fantastically sexy and phenomenally original read. I love the world that she creates, where the Psy, a race with powerful and sometimes terrifying mind powers, who have rejected emotion, vie against the Changelings and the Humans, in what threatens to culminate in a brutal war of cataclysmic proportions. The series contains palpable sexual tension and passionate lovemaking scenes, which contrast sharply with the political machinations and unspeakable acts of violence from some characters who are true sociopaths. There are also others who fight to defend their own race and foster harmony and some whose motives we are never quite sure of. The central romance in each book is set against the overall story arc, told in the manner of a master storyteller. You are advised to read the series in order for maximum enjoyment.

Tangle of Need follows on after book 10, Kiss of Snow, which covers the romance between Hawke, the alpha of the SnowDancer pack and Sienna, the powerful X Psy, and the battle against some of the Psy. At the heart of Tangle of Need is the romance between two wolf-changelings, the soldier Adria and Riaz, a SnowDancer lieutenant. The journey to their HEA is emotional and it pulls at the heartstrings. Adria has returned to the SnowDancers after a disastrous union with another, where she felt compelled to suppress her natural dominance. This has damaged her self esteem and she hides her true self under a prickly exterior, fearing commitment. Riaz, a lone wolf, has returned from Europe, where he met his true mate, only to be devastated when he finds that she is married to another she is very much in love with.

These two wounded individuals are initially drawn together by an overwhelming physical attraction, despite their initial dislike of each other. There is a hugely sexually charged scene early in the novel, where this attraction is left in no doubt. However, Riaz subsequently rejects Adria when she proposes that they come together for physical pleasure alone. However, constantly thrown together in the course of their work, they begin to form a strong friendship, which soon progresses into ever stronger ties, unable to resist the primal draw that pulls them together. Yet what future do they have when Riaz knows in his heart that Adria will never be his mate and the guilt of betrayal holds him back? Also how will Adria cope with the fear of being second best and coping with yet another dominant male? In this novel Nalini Singh explores the strength of the mating bond versus the free will of true, unconditional, love and she does this beautifully. As usual the lovemaking scenes are supremely hot, especially in this novel, where Adria and Riaz are both powerful dominants.

Riaz and Adria, strong, yet vulnerable individuals are characters whom I really feel for. Adria is a seasoned soldier, but with a gentle and giving side to her nature, which Riaz starts to value more and more as they get to know each other. I loved how once he made up his mind to pursue Adria, after cruelly rebuffing her, he really went for it, despite his initial guilt over betraying his mate. His actions were very romantic and the novel is a real tear jerker before it reaches its conclusion.

There is a lot going on in the tale, apart from the main romance, not least the continuing sickness and disintegration of the Psy-Net and the power play between the Psy Councillors, which not only threaten the Changelings but world peace. In particular, Councillors Ming, Henry Scott and Kaleb make several key appearances and impact on the plot. Into this mix there is also the growing strength of the Pure Psy and the Human Alliance. In terms of the Changelings, we see little of the DarkRiver leopards in this book. Instead we catch up with those in the SnowDancer pack, especially Hawke and Sienna, who we see a lot of. We also meet other characters again, such as the Ghost, Alice, the brilliant researcher from the past who is recovering from being in statis, the Arrows and other factions which reveal themselves, seeking to align with others in the face of the oncoming war. The many sub plots, which exist alongside the central romance, make the book another gripping read and a great addition to the series.

I recommend this book to those who like to read paranormal romance or romance with a Futuristic/Sci-Fi theme. with deliciously sexy scenes, set within a complex world and overall plot which holds your interest and keeps you in suspense throughout. Like all of Nalini Singh’s fans I am also itching to read the latest book in the series, Heart of Obsidian, which is a much anticipated read.

GOLLANCZ FICTION

http://www.orionbooks.co.uk

http://www.gollancz.co.uk

Cover design by Craig Fraser

Photo copyright Aleksej Vasic/Getty Images

http://www.nalinisingh.com/index.php

July 4, 2013 by Tina Williams

Ways to see a Ghost, by Emily Diamand

Teenagers Unite to Combat Evil in Explosive Paranormal Thriller

for ages 11+

If you are seeking an exciting paranormal read which includes everything from murder, mayhem and ghosts to an ancient evil and UFO hunters you cannot do better than read this adventure filled novel by Emily Diamand, which will appeal to young readers and adults alike. Caroline has also reviewed this book and if you would like to have a look at her review too click on the link at the end of this post.

In Ways to See a Ghost, Gray, the teenage son of a UFO conspiracy theorist and Isis, daughter of a charlatan psychic, are thrown together when their parents start dating, after meeting at the scene of a strange death. Both teenagers come from broken homes and whilst Isis lives with her mum, who has parted from her dad some time ago, Gray, whose mum has custody, visits his dad regularly and accompanies him on UFO seeking missions.

After a rocky start, Isis and Gray form a close friendship and uncover the sinister intentions of the charismatic Philip Syndal, the head of an elite psychic society that Isis’ mum has been inducted into. The tale unfolds into one of great intrigue and danger, involving a series of bizarre and ever increasing sinister events, where Isis’ sanity and even her life is under threat. Unlike her mother Isis can really see ghosts, an ability which manifested itself after her little sister Angel died in a car accident. Indeed, Angel’s ghost plays an important role in the story. Isis has never revealed Angel’s existence to her mother for fear that it could traumatize her.

The book is full of strange and sometimes horrific events. Indeed, its opening scene is in the middle of a wheat field where Gray and his dad witness unexplained lights in the sky, which create a series of crop circles which Gray manages to capture on film. There are also references to the many ghosts who seek to communicate with Isis, who is a powerful, albeit unwilling psychic. I enjoyed the descriptions of the paranormal events, which were very vivid and swept me up into the story. As the book progresses, we learn of a connection between the lights seen by Gray and his father and ghosts and events become more and more terrifying before the plot unravels.

I enjoyed all of the characters in the book. Gray and Isis, both strong and likeable characters, form a close bond and their friendship deepens as the book progresses. Whilst Isis is sceptical of the research carried out by Gray’s father to prove the existence of UFOs, Gray is equally sceptical of Isis’ claim that she can see ghosts, until she gives him proof that Angel exists. I loved the character of Angel, who, even as a ghost is a typical precocious and playful three year old, often exasperating her older sister. The way Isis, Gray and Angel interact and work together to try and defeat the evil which manifests itself is one of the most satisfying aspects of the novel. Other characters include Cally, Isis’ mum and Gil, Gray’s dad, who are both a little eccentric, playing their respective parts as a fake psychic and a committed UFO hunter to the full. Gil is a bit of a ‘Jack the lad’ who usually plays the field, but has fallen hard for Cally and Cally, who has been in a dark place since Angel’s death and the breakdown of her marriage, finds that loving Gil has given her a new lease of life.There is also a ghost called Mandeville, who has a key role as the tale unfolds, and Phillip Syndal who runs the elite psychic society, who has many secrets and harbours great evil. A fun character, Stu, a friend of Gil, known as ‘The Keeper’, who holds a lot of information on worldwide conspiracy theories, provides some humour.

The novel covers the usual tensions between parents and teenagers and I found it amusing that the reader sees their parents’ relationship through the eyes of their children, who both find actions such as kissing and hand holding yuk! Some chapters are told in the first person from Gray’s point of view, looking back on events and others in the third person. This is effective in that we are able to view events from multiple perspectives and time frames and adds depth to the story. There is also a mystery person interrogating Gray in his chapters and the author does not reveal to us who this is, which I find fascinating and I am hoping to find this out in the subsequent novel. The book also has an environmental subtext throughout, in its references to the harm man has inflicted on the natural environment.

I recommend this book to young and adult readers who enjoy exciting con temporary tales of the paranormal.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

For Caroline’s review click here

A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher for the purpose of an honest and fair review.

Templar Publishing www.templarco.co.uk

Cover art by Ben Kovar

Publication July 2013

June 22, 2013 by Tina Williams

Guest Blogger – Sabrina, ‘The Urban Book Thief’ – Deconstructing the Alpha Hero

Today we are thrilled to welcome Sabrina, aka ‘The Urban Book Thief,’ to our blog to give us an insight into the alpha heroes we love. In doing so she also shares some awesome book recommendations. Sabrina’s blog is bursting with fun and fantastic news and reviews of kick ass romance, urban fantasy and paranormal books. If this sounds like your thing (and it’s definitely mine), check it out, you won’t be disappointed! Over to you Sabrina and many many thanks! Tina 🙂

Deconstructing the Alpha Hero

Heroes. Male protagonists. The Alpha. The hottie with a body. Whether you love ‘em or hate ‘em – there’s just no avoiding them. For me, I just can’t seem to get enough. Unfortunately, this sentiment isn’t shared quite so much by my hubbie, who has to live in a house with hundreds of books featuring half-naked men on their covers. Meh.

So I was going about my day last week when I ran into a rather awesome website called All About Romance. The content is stupendous; please do check them out if you have the time. The authors have one or two very insightful things to say about romance heroes, and I read an interesting post about how they tried to determine how many different types of ‘Alpha’ hero there are out there in big bad world of fiction. According to them there are eight heroic archetypes. It’s totally legit. They even had focus groups where they ogled different men and everything.

I was so extra-ordinar-ily fascinated with this idea that I created my own (rather less insightful) response.

1. The Chief

This is the guy you want to stick around when the world is about to blow. He is uber powerful, doesn’t take no for an answer and can kill a man by just jauntily raising his eyebrow in mock humour (just kidding – actually no… I think some of these heroes actually could).

Think Roarke from Nora Robert’s In Death series, Hawke from Kiss of Snow or Jericho Barrons from the Fever series.

“I’m not the hero, Mac. Never have been. Never will be. Let us be perfectly clear: I’m not the antihero, either, so quit waiting to discover my hidden potential. There’s nothing to redeem me.” (Shadowfever by K.M Moning)

Chiefs will never admit to being the hero. They are THAT inflexible. Though it is probably because they had to leave a lot of casualties behind on their way to the top…

2. The Bad Boy

This is the guy you don’t want your parents to meet: he’s the one with the leather jacket, a confident swagger (like Jagger yo) and a past he wants to bury. Tut-tut. He’ll usually say the wrong thing and will likely flick the Chief the bird when asked to do something. Even when it’s polite.

Think Tack from Kristen Ashley’s Motorcycle Man, Wraith from the Demonica series or Gabriel from the Dark Magic series.

“His voice was low and rough … “What about you? Do you like bad boys?” “There’s definitely appeal,” she breathed. “Good,” He bent and clipped her earlobe with his teeth … “Because they don’t come badder than me.” (Passion Unleashed by Larissa Ione).

Ooooh! Count me in for a side serving of rebel with lashings of extra sarcasm. The bad boy is good for making with the funny and delivering the ultimate wise-crack put downs. Slam!

3. The Best Friend

This guy is known by many different names – my cuddly snookums, the one guy everyone gets along with, the sweetheart or the hero who declares his love within the space of almost three chapters. He remembers your birthday and will surprise you with flowers when it isn’t even Valentine’s Day. He’ll rock your little socks off.

Think Drew Kinkaid in Nalini Singh’s Play of Passion, Packard from the Disillusionists series or Jack from the Travis Family series by Lisa Kleypas.

“I respect you,” he murmured. “And your views. I think of you as an equal. I respect your brains, and all those big words you like to use. But I also want to rip your clothes off and have sex with you until you scream and cry and see God.” (Smooth Talking Stranger by Lisa Kleypas).

In paranormal romance, this type of hero is usually referred to as a Beta – and you know what ladies? Beta’s tend to be practical, they’ll pick their clothes off the floor without any prompting and will even cook dinner for you if you ask nicely… I’m sold. Where can I find one? My house needs cleaning…

4. The Charmer

This guy will sweep you off your feet with sweet, sweet words and a devilish smile. He’s fun, he’s sm-oo-th and usually has the gift of the gab which almost always get him into – and also out of – trouble. Think Bones from the Night Huntress series, Reseph from Rogue Rider or Gwenvael the Handsome from the Dragon Kin series.

“Wrong way, Bones. The men’s showers are in the opposite direction.” “I’ll file that away with all the other information that doesn’t pertain to me” was Bones’ mocking reply. (One Foot in the Grave by Jeaniene Frost)

He’s a playboy with a heart of gold… well, most of the time anyway. A word of warning, he’s not always the responsible type so don’t pen his name down for babysitting duty – not until he has been trained.

5. The Lost Soul

This guy is the one you want to take home and put your arms around cause life has just pure sucked for him in the past. Big brooders the lot of ‘em. Think Demetrius from the Night Prowler Series, Kere from Born of Silence or Dageus from Dark Highlander.

Also like honor and courage and love, sometimes the truth can be lost, and you have to find your way back to it, crawling over fields of broken glass and dead bodies, your knees and hands bloody and raw, until you get to it and it’s even sweeter than before because of what you suffered on the way. (Rapture’s Edge by J.T. Geissinger).

The Lost Soul is usually no stranger to torture, suffering or pain. In fact, if he wasn’t so god damn sexy we would probably have to put him out of his misery. Poor thing. Nice abs though.

6. The Professor

No, he hasn’t always got his nose in a book – but this guy does have book smarts, and lots of them too. This is a hero who is logical, practical and one to stick to the facts. Plus, I reckon he would definitely be able to complete The Times crossword puzzle. In an hour.

Think Ian from the Highland Pleasures series, Gabriel from Gabriel’s Inferno or Lock from the Pride Series.

When she knew she had her voice back, she asked, “So I’m your girlfriend now?”

“Yup. We’re going to attempt what’s known in the nonintellectual world as a rel-a-tionship.” He sounded the word out and Gwen struggled not to laugh. (The Mane Squeeze by Shelly Laurenston).

Cool as a cucumber and smart as a badger (badgers are dead smart. This I know because I’ve never actually seen one. In fact, I do not know anyone who has seen a real life badger. So unless they have all mystically met their maker, I have deduced that they are cunningly clever ninja spies). This guy can also count without having to use his fingers too. This will definitely help when he goes grocery shopping. Definitely.

7. The Swashbuckler

Step back Indiana, these guys have it covered. Fearlessly brilliant, this is a group of gainly gentlemen know how to dodge a deadly viper while simultaneously bouncing on a space hopper and eating a Big Mac. The Swashbuckler is not afraid to get dirty. In fact – he loves it. Oooh soldier!

Think Strider from Lords of the Underworld, Archimedes Fox from the Steampunk series Iron Seas or Garreth MacRieve from the Immortals after Dark series.

“At fifty times the distance, you dispatched that ko-bold with three arrows to the neck. I’ve earned a trio to the chest. Seems you slapped him while you’re tickling me. You doona want to kill me, which is a good sign. Maybe this is your way of flirting?” (Pleasure of a Dark Prince by Kresley Cole).

These thrills – they be multiplying. And boy do these guys love their thrills. Though just check yourself before you wreck yourself because this man likes to invite chaos and havoc along his merry way.

8. The Warrior

This is the guy you want with you when battling the demons lurking under your bed. These heroes are men’s men. Intensely masculine, hard as nails and potential knights in shining armour – although they may grumble about it and say things like ‘it was my duty’ or ‘I protect all my peoples, even lovely wenches such as yourself’.

Think Curran from Ilona Andrews’ Kate Daniels series, Rain from the Tairen Soul series or Sin from the Dark-Hunter series.

“I turned to leave and paused before the gap in the ruined wall. “One last thing, Your Majesty. I’d like a name I can put into my report, something shorter than typing out ‘The Leader of the Southern Shapechanger Faction.’ What should I call you?” “Lord.” I rolled my eyes. He shrugged. “It’s short.” (Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews).

When the warrior comes out to play it’s time for the bad guys to git cause this guy leaves no stone unturned – so be sure to leave plenty lying around in your back garden in case he comes over for a cup of tea.

Thank you for visiting us from ‘Down Under’ Sabrina. I love all of the alpha archetypes identified, although I’ve currently got a major thing for The Warrior – hence the post image, which I could not resist! I also admit to adoring Barrons (The Chief), Bones (The Charmer) and Wraith (The Bad Boy), from the alpha heroes that you identified. I think that all of our readers will have their favourites. Once again thank you for sharing your insights with us. Tina 🙂

The Urban Book Thief blog

All About Romance

Post image: CURAphotography/Shutterstock.com

June 21, 2013 by Tina Williams

Wicked Nights (Angels of the Dark #1), by Gena Showalter

Heavenly Match between Human and Angel

Wicked Nights is the first book in Gena Showalter’s Angels of the Dark, a spin off series from her fantastic Lords of the Underworld series. Gena writes hot paranormal romances with uber alpha heroes, snarky heroines and passionate and toe curling lovemaking scenes. The scorching cover of this novel certainly lives up to its promise!

In Wicked Nights, the brutal and emotionless angel, Zacharel, whom we met briefly in her LOTU series, is put in charge of a ragtag army of warrior angels. Zacharel’s deity is frustrated with his lack of compassion and both he and his army have to work together as a team and above all refrain from killing humans in their war against the demons, or risk falling and losing their wings – not easy when you meet the less than angelic warrior recruits who all have mega issues! As part of their duties, Zacharel’s army are given the task of destroying demons attacking an institution for the criminally insane in the human realm.

The human Annabelle has been incarcerated there since being wrongly convicted of slaughtering her parents, her claim that they were murdered by a demon being dismissed. Since the attack, Annabelle has been tormented by other demons and is often heavily sedated to minimise her violent outbursts, in which she defends herself against demon attacks unseen by others. She has also suffered physical abuse from other inmates and wardens and sexual abuse from one warden in particular.

During the attack, Zacharel is drawn to Annabelle. He becomes intrigued by her and takes her to his cloud, despite realising that she is in fact a demon’s consort. Things then get complicated as Zacharel’s frozen heart begins to melt and he starts to feel strong emotions for Annabelle, wanting to protect her. Annabelle in turn is attracted to her captor and decides to use the opportunity to learn from him how to fight demons. However, it is not long before demons attack Zacharel’s cloud and Annabelle is put in danger. Yet what will happen when the demon high lord who has marked Annabelle as his consort decides to claim her? Will Zacharel and Annabelle consummate their relationship, when Annabelle struggles with deep seated fears of intimacy and trust? What long term future do they have when angels live for thousands of years, yet a human life is over in the blink of an eye? As usual Gena Showalter has plenty of tricks up her sleeve before the action packed plot concludes.

Zacharel, a truly tortured hero, is a complex character, despising demons with a passion and for very good reasons. He is not only an alpha, but a VIRGIN to boot and has locked away his emotions since a personal tragedy devastated him and gave him major guilt issues. Annabelle is a strong heroine. She has somehow kept hold of her sanity, but is also deeply vulnerable due to the horrors she has endured. She will fight the demons and the demon high lord who wishes to claim her, even if it leads to her own demise. She finds Zacharel attractive from the off, but is fearful due to her prior experiences.

I loved the developing romance between the couple in this book, which I felt was truly a match made in Heaven. The banter was both poignant and amusing and I enjoyed the fact that the hero, once his emotions had come to the fore, would do anything for his woman. I particularly enjoyed the fact that Zacharel finds himself wanting to bond with a woman who has been marked by a demon, a race he despises. The lovemaking scenes are both sweet and hot, as Zacharel strives to overcome Annabelle’s fears and assert his new found sexuality. Fortunately for a virgin he is a fast learner!

I enjoyed meeting the other angels of Zacharel’s army, who no doubt will each have their own story. I also welcomed the appearance of some of the characters from her Lords of the Underworld series. The demon foes are truly hideous and there are plenty of violent, gut spilling scenes full of blood and gore to keep readers entertained and to contrast with the romance. The author has done a great job of balancing the main story with the world building and the introduction of major characters to feature in subsequent books, which can be difficult in the first book in a series.

I am looking forward to reading the next book, Beauty Awakened, which tells the story of Koldo, one of Zacharel’s men, whom we are introduced to in this book. I recommend the series to lovers of steamy paranormal romance which is also full of humour, passion and action.

Reviewed by Tina

Gena Showalter’s website

Goodreads link to Wicked Nights reviews

Publisher Harlequin’s website

June 18, 2013 by Tina Williams

One Lovely Blog Award

Many many thanks to Sarah Colliver, author, blogger and keen photographer for our nomination for the super ONE LOVELY BLOG AWARD which we are both delighted to accept. You can find Sarah’s blog, where you can read about her inspirational Peggy Rodman Series and her poetry and look at her beautiful photographs of the Forest of Dean at:

http://sarahcolliver.wordpress.com/

Without further ado here are our 7 nominees for the ONE LOVELY BLOG AWARD:

http://cherylmoore.wordpress.com

http://countingducks.wordpress.com

http://freakyfolktales.wordpress.com

http://www.samanthaholtauthor.blogspot.co.uk/

http://www.maryraimescurtis.blogspot.co.uk/

http://sophiebowns.wordpress.com

http://urbanbookthief.wordpress.com/

7 RANDOM FACTS about Tina and Caroline who blog on areadersreviewblog:

Tina

1) Although currently mistress of all I survey at home – the cooker, the vacuum, the refrigerator, the ironing and the cleaning and not forgetting the children, in the dim and distant past I played at other things. These included working in the NHS, local government and the Fire Service. My favourite jobs were those where I worked in area regeneration and produced policies to combat poverty and social exclusion.

2) I have been friends with Caroline since I worked alongside her in the Fire Service.

3) I prefer tea to coffee and I am a very tactile person (see Caroline’s Random Fact no 3).

4) I adore reading, especially romance books, from sweet to erotic, in every sub genre imaginable. I sometimes read erotica.

5) Guests at my wedding were encouraged to be ‘hands on’ and to participate in the entertainment. We had two musicians who played medieval music, were attired in medieval costumes and who compelled guests to throw themselves fully into the dance of the ‘Amorous Pea’, which they claimed was all the rage at the French court. It was only later when we looked at the wedding video that we realised that some guests were less than enthusiastic!

6) I prefer white wine to red, as if I drink red wine I peak too early and am prone to falling over or revealing mine and everyone else’s darkest secrets.

7) I am scared of heights.

Caroline

1) I was named after a Status Quo song.

2) I absolutely love the sitcom ‘Scrubs’ – so much so that I had pink pyjamas similar to the scrubs that they wear on the show (just by chance) and I really wanted a real stethoscope to go with them so I could pretend to be Sarah Chalke’s character, ‘Elliot’!

3) Have known Tina for 13 years, worked with her, rented a home from her, had children at similar times as her, created this blog with her – all after Tina recommending to our boss to take me on for a job after an interview in which she found out I had sold some fluffy diaries!!!

4) I loved writing as a teenager, I made up lyrics in the styles that I thought were similar to Celine Dion and Blur. My favourite piece of writing is an intro I wrote for a biography on the music band Oasis. I thought of a great title too. Now I just need to write the remainder of the book!!!

5) I used to want to knit. However, I couldn’t place the stitches over the needle to begin with and once I got going my knitting always ended up with holes throughout!

6) When I was about 9 or 10 I broke a pane of glass from my school’s greenhouse thinking that the door opened outwards (when actually it slid across). I pushed the glass and it fell and smashed. Oooops!

7) At the turn of my 18th birthday I met my amazing guy, began a new job within the Fire Service, embarking on a lifelong friendship with Tina, and I went on my first weeks holiday! Great times!

Thank you to everyone for reading this and we look forward to continuing to have fun and meeting others through the awesome world of blogging!

If you would like to accept this award, post about it and pass it on to others, here are the rules: 1. Add the ONE LOVELY BLOG AWARD image to your post. 2. Share seven things about you. 3. Pass the award on to seven nominees. 4. Thank the person who nominated you. 5. Inform the nominees by posting on their blogs.

Tina and Caroline 🙂

June 15, 2013 by Tina Williams

Spotlight on Sarah Colliver, Author of the Peggy Rodman Series

A big welcome today to Sarah Colliver, author of the first two instalments of the Peggy Rodman Series, Echoes of the Past – Harry and Echoes of the Past – Eloise. Sarah has kindly agreed to share her thoughts on the inspiration behind her writing and tell us about her blog where she shares her photographs, short stories and poems with readers. Scroll down after reading this post if you would like to read my reviews of the Peggy series. Thank you. Tina 🙂 Now over to Sarah…….

“Echoes from the Past – Harry” was my first attempt at sharing any story I have written. I was inspired to write it during the painful time after I suddenly lost my dear Mum and it helped me through the dark days. My relationship with Peggy developed and I continued writing about her using the area I live in for inspiration. The feedback I received was positive and encouraged me to publish the second instalment on Amazon. Writing “Eloise” – the second part of Peggy’s story was a totally different experience from the first and as I wrote the unfolding twists and turns I was on a journey of discovery myself, just like the character I was creating. I have recently completed part three, “The Lost Children” and begun a final fourth part. I hope to eventually bring all four parts into one novel eventually. I tend to correct people when they say I have written four stories as in my mind they are very much one story but in three parts.

Having grown up in Surrey, moving to the Forest only 4 years ago, I am daily surprised and inspired by the beauty surrounding us. We remain determined not to take the spectacular views and changing colours for granted. The seasons here are like a theatrical show with the drama of winter; the dawn of spring; the emerald backdrop of summer and the gilded trees of the autumn. Each act never failing to take your breath away as you stroll through a part of the forest amazed at the changes Mother Nature commands.

I have two sons, like chalk and cheese, who are growing up before my very eyes; a supportive husband who still manages to make me laugh after 18 years and the other two members of our household are my Dad and our crazy beagle – Jess! We muddle along together and generally try and laugh more than we cry.

My hobby is creative writing and I’ve decided to try a more structured approach to it now that my boys are more independent, to see where it takes me. The main thing is I write because I enjoy it and am hoping to continue improving along the way. If anyone gets pleasure from reading my stories, then I am one happy lady!

If you would like to find out more about my writing, you can find me on ‘Facebook’, “Echoes from the Past – Peggy Rodman“- If you stop by I would LOVE to hear from you with your comments! I also have a blog on ‘WordPress’ where I post various items from photographs, short stories and poems to ramblings on everyday life, so head on over if you are interested! I am always keen to hear how people feel and relate to my characters, so please do let me know.

Where you can find me:

http://sarahcolliver.wordpress.com

Amazon UK

Amazon US

https://www.facebook.com/EchoesfromthePast

June 14, 2013 by Tina Williams

Echoes from the Past – Part 1- Harry and Part 2 – Eloise (The Peggy Rodman Series), Sarah Colliver

Peggy’s Deductions Help Spirits Find Peace at Last

These poignant and uplifting tales describe how Peggy Rodman, a wife and mother, uses a new found gift to help lost and confused spirits make sense of their past and reunite with their loved ones. At the same time Peggy finds some comfort from her own grief at the death of her dear mother. Although both tales brought tears to my eyes, they both ended on a positive note and I found them to be inspirational and uplifting reads in their examination of love, loss and reconciliation in this life and the afterlife.

In Echoes from the Past – Part 1 – Harry, we are introduced to Peggy, the heroine. Peggy has recently moved into a cottage with her husband and two boys. In the run up to the move Peggy’s mother was taken ill and died. Peggy is struggling to come to terms with her grief, whilst helping to support others such as her dad, who lives nearby and her two boys who have started a new school. Three months after the move, whilst exploring the area around her new home, she discovers a secret place where she meets a young man called Harry, who she realises lived over a century ago. Peggy recognises that she has developed a rather extraordinary gift – the ability to interact with spirits of the departed. Harry’s memories of his life are confused and he has become tied to this earthly plane. Peggy helps him to remember and find peace at long last, moving on to be reunited with his loved ones. At the same time Harry’s actions encourage Peggy to find her own peace and start to come to terms with her mother’s passing.

The character of Peggy, a wife and mother, with hopes and fears we are all familiar with, is one which is easy to empathise with. Peggy is a gentle and thoughtful person, who is very much in tune with her environment and takes pleasure in engaging her senses. She is happy and secure in her relationship with Ed, her husband, and adores her two school age boys. However, she is in a dark place, deeply grieving for her mum, and her ability to communicate with those spirits who remain tied to this world is new to her.

Harry is a lovable character. He is confused and is shocked when Peggy helps him to realise that he is in fact dead and recognises that Peggy is from a time that is not his own. At first he cannot recall much of his life and feels desperately sad. However, with Peggy’s help he is encouraged to make sense of his flashbacks to his past life and eventually his death, enabling him to reunite with his family in the afterlife where he can find happiness again.

Both Peggy and Harry comprehend that something extraordinary is happening and that they have been brought together for a reason. They have a strong physical and emotional connection, which neither understands. I enjoyed the fact that for a ghost, Harry appears very corporeal indeed, like a living breathing person. Indeed, there is reference to Peggy feeling his breath on her cheek, as well as being the recipient of his touch, hugs and kisses. Peggy feels guilty about the attraction she feels for Harry and Harry also feels guilt for he knows that he was happy with his wife and children when he was alive. Their shared experience of grief enables them to gain comfort from each other.

The story has some mystical, almost fairy tale qualities, especially in how the author describes Peggy’s secret place. I particularly enjoyed the presence of the dove throughout the tale, which I read as a symbol of love and peace and representing a link to the afterlife. For the most part the author’s writing style flowed readily and quickly drew me into the plot and the characters. I would have liked to know a little more about Peggy’s relationship with her husband Ed, which seems very close and loving and hope that this will be explored further in subsequent instalments. I am also curious about Peggy and Harry’s special attraction to one another and wonder if we will be seeing any more of Harry as Peggy’s story unfolds.

I found the tale a very thoughtful and touching read in how it explored the deep emotions connected to death, grief and the afterlife. I liked the way that the story concluded and found it to be an inspirational read.

In Echoes from the Past – Part 2 – Eloise, Peggy is getting her life back on track after her mother’s death, whilst becoming reconciled to the responsibilities of her special ability. Her joy of life is returning and, at her husband’s suggestion, she applies for a job in Gloucester. It is there, after attending her interview, that she encounters the troubled spirit of Eloise, who has outstanding issues to resolve before she can pass over peacefully. Peggy is more than happy to assist, especially when she hears her heartbreaking tale. Once again Peggy uses resources available at the local records office to identify some truths previously unknown to Eloise. She also helps Eloise to remember what happened, helping her to reconcile the past and to reunite with her loved one.

Eloise is a fascinating character, who lived in the late 1800’s. We learn that she was well educated and wanted to contribute to society through working in an area often reserved solely for men. Unusual for a woman of her time, she was able to find work in the offices of the local match factory. Her story focuses on a romance between her and a young man called Charles. Her unfinished business concerns events and misunderstandings which arise soon after she weds him – I will not reveal any more than that as it would spoil the plot for those wishing to read the series.

In this instalment, Peggy grows in confidence and relishes the fact that she can offer help to the troubled spirits she seems to draw to her. We also learn more about her husband Ed and Peggy’s relationship with him. Eloise’s experiences of struggling to justify her role in the workplace as a woman in late Victorian Britain were interesting to reflect on. Peggy comes to realise how lucky she is to have the freedom to work and be a a wife and mother without society judging her harshly. I found the issues raised to be very thought provoking and the conclusion of the tale an uplifting one.

As with Harry’s story, I could sense that the author had carried out a lot of local research into the time and places that her characters inhabited. This added to my reading experience and added depth to the characters and the narrative. Once again the tale was an emotional one and I welcomed the fact that Peggy was able to help Eloise find peace at last. The two instalments flow almost seamlessly into one another and should be read in order. I am looking forward to the next instalment of Peggy’s story, The Lost Children and the fourth and final instalment which is planned. I recommend the Peggy Rodman Series to those who like to read about the paranormal and explore, in a sensitive way, the issues connected with grief and loss and the veil between the world of the living and those departed.

Reviewed by Tina

To read author Sarah Colliver’s post, in which she talks about her inspiration behind the Peggy Rodman Series, click here.

Author Sarah Colliver’s website/blog http://sarahcolliver.wordpress.com

The Peggy Rodman Series on Amazon UK and Amazon US

Find Sarah Colliver on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/EchoesfromthePast

June 12, 2013 by Tina Williams

The Woman Who Floated Above The Hedge, A Short Story by PJ Hodge, Author of Freaky Folk Tales,

A Very Unwelcome Visitation Indeed!

I have been addicted to author Paul Hodge’s blog Freaky Folk Tales, where he posts his research into folklore and his short stories, for some time now. The site also features Paul’s awesome and atmospheric photographs and a collection of illustrations which he has put together whilst traversing this realm and researching his tales. These form part of his own collected works, Freaky Folk Tales. One of Paul’s stories, A Tale of Chirbury has been published in ‘Darker Times Anthology, Vol 3′ – available on Amazon Kindle and Paperback (click on the link to find out more).

Paul kindly agreed that we could publish one of his stories of the paranormal, The Woman Who Floated Above The Hedge, which is a tale of a very unwelcome visitor! If you enjoy it you may want to find out more by visiting Paul’s site. Read on for the story and to learn about Paul and his collection of Freaky Folk Tales, that is if you dare ……………. Tina 🙂

The Woman Who Floated Above The Hedge, by P J Hodge

I had overheard conversation on the topic but felt unable to examine the rumours from any rational point of view. Although it would amount to nothing elaborate, I had posited that the time required to conduct an investigation would be entirely wasted as, ultimately, the villain would soon be unmasked; more so, all my instincts pointed to the revelation of a scoundrel no more than a child or simple-minded adult (perhaps more than one) intent on concocting reckless mischief out of sheer devilment.

But no matter my opinion; for it is the past. Instead, I will keep to the facts, simply told, and begin with the events of the afternoon of Mothering Sunday, two years before.

We had returned from church, the sky a bitter shade of grey; and at the margins of the unploughed fields surrounding us, dark clouds threatened with torpid heaviness. I passed my hand behind her back to support her frame and she, in turn, shrank further into my side, taking pitiful shelter from the bracing winds. It was the first time in many months I had seen her looking this frail.

Beside us, and looking nearly to be doubled-over by the strength of the gales, were Mrs Bentley and her son. He too was doing his utmost to support his mother and make some headway upon the path.

Finally, having negotiated such inclemency, we arrived at the front porch of our cottage, the middle of a nestled set of three.

I bid good afternoon to the Bentleys and stepped through the iron gate, at the same time removing a few veins of ivy that had made their way through from the adjacent hedgerow. Here, I made a commitment to spend time remedying matters at the front of the house having just spent a season behind it.

A few hours passed in drinking tea and conversation, when at half past three we were alarmed to hear an awful banging at the front door.

My mother indicated that she would rise to answer the door, but I insisted that she should remain at rest and I should attend to the caller; though I was at a complete loss as to whom would be visiting at such an inconvenient time.

When I opened the door, I was surprised to see Mrs Bentley’s son and immediately I took note of his rather confused and distressed state. Holding his chest, he managed to find his voice and told me that I should come quickly to the house. Inside, upon the kitchen floor, I found Mrs Bentley, lying in a most unusual position, as if she had fallen backwards although, somehow, her arms had remained directly by her sides. With all the finesse of a well read scholar I set about searching for signs of life upon the unfortunate woman’s body. But there was little I could do, as I soon became aware of a great coldness that had set into her. I recall having seen only one deceased person in my life, and I can assure you that I felt decidedly queasy despite deference in the duties I had in assisting her poor son.

A doctor was duly dispatched to the house and thereupon confirmation came that Mrs Bentley had suffered heart failure. It was a shocking circumstance despite Mrs Bentley’s advancing years; and on such a day too!

That evening we invited Thomas, Mrs Bentley’s son, to stay with us. The situation was made all the more heartfelt by his insistence on persistently thanking us for our help in dealing with the day’s unfortunate events. Each time, I reminded him that it was the very least we could do considering the circumstances.

It was only through this close-hand hospitality did Thomas reveal a curious happening but an hour or so before his mother’s death.

He had been seated in the drawing room, reading a newspaper, when a sudden, awful shriek had attracted his attention. It appeared to come from the kitchen. Knowing the room to be solely inhabited at this time of day by his mother, he ran through the house and in that particular room he had found Mrs Bentley staring at the window, her hand over her mouth, breathing with such pronounced irregularity. After Thomas had helped her in taking a seat and some refreshment, she told him the source of her distress. Whilst examining the condition of the hedge from the kitchen window, she noticed a woman standing beside the garden gate. Not expecting visitors she wondered who it could be. Most certainly not her sister or a regular caller. For a time, she puzzled over this black-dressed stranger who stood as still as a statue outside her cottage. Finally, with the unpleasant looking woman having remained there for as long as she could take, Mrs Bentley ventured outside to confront her; but on so doing, the woman had disappeared into thin air. And the most awful of sights; returning to the kitchen, she had taken another look out through the window and there, to her utter disbelief, she had come upon a vision that brought a chill to her bones, wracking her frame with a sickening tautness: from behind the hedge, she had seen the same woman rising up, up beyond the height limited by human form, reaching and stopping at her waist, her arms outstretching to draw a shadow upon the hedgerow top; and with lips still, her eyes bore straight at her with such intensity, before disappearing once more.

I must say that I had been quite affected by the tale; it remained with me for a considerable time in undiminished intensity. As I stated earlier, I had taken some comfort in considering it to be the result of inconsiderate japery from youths; concluding in such darker an end that they did not dream to imagine. But despite this, I was to consider from time to time that it was, perhaps, something else.

My mother and I have now returned from church; the day a far improved version of that two years before. And even though through anniversary alone my mind does dwell on such troubles of the past, I have found the day to be one of joy, especially to have seen her in such fine fettle. And such command of her stick too; it had come to her aid several times throughout the service and she had administered its alleviating qualities with considerable deftness. More so, with the sun behind us, and a spread of warm radiance on our backs, her steps have been more robust and steadfast than for as long as I could remember.

I am back in the house now, having just prepared tea. On the table beside the fire I have placed our favourite biscuits. On the air, a little early blossom that I was want to bring into the house before we left for church. And now, with the clock not long past three, I settle down, dragging the newspaper onto my lap. The comforting glow of the fire soothes the eyes and undoubtedly, before long, I shall be assuaged into sleep, the paper falling to my feet.

As I listen towards the kitchen, with my eyelids struggling not to surrender to the seductive comforts of the fire, I hear the sound of plates: surely a little Simnel cake to add to the occasion?

But possibly more plates than one or two hands could adequately grasp. No matter, I will go to her aid as surely her womanly stubbornness will prevent her from seeking help in this direction. As for the shriek; mother gets so awfully upset when she drops things.

(C) PJ Hodge

Freaky Folk Tales A haunting we will go…

For too long we have told and retold colourful stories from overseas whilst neglecting the rich vein of tales that were distilled on these shores; the tales that once lived a lively existence on the lips of our forebears.

Our ancestors would be amazed at our advances, but would they not equally be astonished by how we seek our greatest thrills from wires and circuitry, an electronic buzz that distances ourselves from what it is like to step into the half-light, listen to the words of a stranger and be enthralled – and possibly a little scared – by the actions of our fellow man?

Maybe then it is time to look a little inward and re-evaluate our indigenous worth as a treasure trove of chronicles that revel in everything from the magic of dragons to the terror of a curse. If you agree, then it is then time to bid you a warm welcome – a welcome to the world of Freaky Folk Tales.

About the Author

PJ Hodge left London and came to reside in Hampshire armed with the collected works of MR James, Kate Bush and Nigel Kneale. He now trawls the dusky corners of the country researching folklore and writing short stories about shadows, shades and spectres. These form part of his own collected works, Freaky Folk Tales.

Author’s website Freaky Folk Tales

Post image and short story, ‘The Woman Who Floated Above The Hedge’ by kind permission of P J Hodge