Soul Rebel by C.J. Pinard **REVIEW**

Soul Rebel

Blurb: When 21-year-old Nolan Bishop meets a seductive woman named Eva at a dark club in downtown Shreveport, Louisiana, little does he know his soul will be gone as soon as she is. Realizing she’s taken something from him, he finds out he has a very limited time to destroy her before he turns into something sinister and inhuman. In a race against all that is holy, Nolan has to find Eva and get his soul back while trying not to fall in love with Charity, the twin sister of the succubus who took his soul – all in 7 days.

Review

Wow! What a read! I have to say Soul Rebel is probably my favourite C.J. Pinard novel to date. From beginning to end there is action, suspense and romance. Not to mention some great characters in Nolan, Eva and Charity.

From the beginning Nolan’s character drew me in. He is a real gentleman, polite and kind, with the ability to fall in love wholly and easily with the girl that pulls at his heart strings. However, after being left broken hearted early in the novel, C.J. Pinard has created a vulnerable, lovable victim of love that many females would find hard to resist! And with many reads these days focusing on lead female victims-come-heroes (at least the books I have been reading!), it was interesting to see a fallen guy be the main focus.

To make matters worse, whilst Nolan is coming to terms with being single again, he then has to deal with his disbelief that a redhead woman whom he met in a nightclub, Eva, is actually a female vampire, a succubus, who stole his soul after a passionate kiss! Little does he realise to begin with that he only has 7 days before he turns into a vampire himself unless he can get his soul back.

What will it take to make Nolan believe what Eva is? Although reluctant to believe, despite a warning, Nolan soon realises he has a mission on his hands. It probably feels to Nolan like he has been kicked when he’s already down. The reader really feels for this guy and constantly roots for him to find his feet and take back what is his.

Soul Rebel is so much more than a regular paranormal story with a vampire bite and then the human turning. I love the idea of souls being taken. It gives the novel more edge and heaps more darkness. And, to add to the tension is the time frame in which Nolan has before he turns – just 7 days. That’s 7 days for Nolan to realise and believe what has happened to him as well as try to get his soul returned.

Extra suspense is also included when Charity, Eva’s human twin sister, turns up in Nolan’s life. Charity has the same sexual attraction as Eva, and over time as they search for Eva together, Nolan and Charity begin to grow closer and have feelings for each other. Not only does this cause confusion with Nolan, after all she is the enemy’s sister and he’s already been given grief twice by females, but it also causes conflict within Charity.

Charity knows her sister has done wrong, but it’s the only way Eva survives (from taking good souls). Charity knows Eva needs to meet her end in order for Nolan to have his soul back but can she stand the thought of Nolan killing her sister?

As well as the thrill of the drama and adventure there is also a great moody and gothic atmosphere during some scenes, especially the evening scenes and when Eva is mentioned due to where she is living. Eva lives out of town in a Victorian style mansion and its Victorian style and when Nolan and Charity are trying to find her and take her by surprise there are some eerie moments and the reader can feel the fear and intensity as these scenes are written at a steady pace with the reader having no idea what the outcome will be.

Soul Rebel is definitely one for any paranormal fan to read. Due to the pace throughout it makes for a fairly quick read and yet has so much to offer. The reader can feel how Nolan becomes stronger throughout the novel. It is so gradual which makes it all the more real. The reader is certainly taken on a ride of all emotions of despair, anger and love. There is nothing obvious with this story. There are constant surprises throughout this novel. And fans of C.J. Pinard may enjoy a small overlap with her Enchanted Immortals series! I’ll say no more. But I would love to be reading a sequel in the not too distant future!

A copy of Soul Rebel was provided by the author, C.J. Pinard in return for an honest and fair review.

Soul Rebel is available on Amazon US and Amazon UK.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

 

 

Desired (True Alpha #1) (short story) by Alisa Woods **REVIEW**

Desired (True Alpha 1)

A VERY HOT AND INTENSE READ!

RELEASED TODAY, September 2nd 2014, I am proud to present the first of six New Adult paranormal romance short stories in the TRUE ALPHA series. The first episode, DESIRED, is 80 pages or 20,000 words.

Blurb: Shifters live in the shadows of Seattle, just under the skin of the alpha male, dot-com entrepreneurs who are building a new Silicon Valley in the Emerald City.

Mia is just a college girl trying to earn her business degree and dig out of the poverty she was born into—being a shifter is something she hides, hoping her secret won’t sabotage her dreams.

Lucas is a broken alpha, a wolf who lost his mate, his pack, and almost himself—he wasn’t looking to rescue a girl or start a pack war. But now he has to keep her safe or it won’t just be her life, but his whole family at risk… only his inner wolf can’t seem to keep its paws off a girl who has secrets of her own.

REVIEW

Desired (True Alpha #1) is a fantastic opening to a series. From the very first scene I was hooked as it was full of action and attraction between the two main characters, Mia and Lucas. Mia is about to be attacked by a pack of wolves and she is very much in fear of what they will do to her.

The violence and sexual tension rises dramatically and yet Mia still longs to hide the fact that she is a shifter herself. However, the tension, fear and heightened levels of emotion are bringing her to the edge, to the point where the wolf inside her could turn loose at any time!

This scene alone is gripping and intense. The reader will not be able to put this short story down! And then comes Lucas……

With Mia needing protection from the Red Pack and Lucas finding himself being the one protecting her, the intensity reminded me a little of the introduction to J.R. Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood, Dark Lover, with Wrath and Beth. Albeit, shifter instead of vamp!

Bear in mind that this is just the first scene! The sexual attraction and tension continues between these two characters when Mia begins her work experience the following week and the company is owned by the pack in which Lucas belongs.

Working so closely causes conflict within Lucas. He wants Mia just about as bad as you can possibly imagine and yet the only one for him, his mate, has been deceased for some time and he never believed that he would feel these feelings again. Maybe he even feels like he is betraying his mate? His reactions confuse Mia at times and can bring a little fear. At the same time she tries to conceal her inner wolf and yet her feelings are just as strong as Lucas’.

You find your heart pounding and blood boiling during the scenes of protection and the intensity of Lucas sets you on fire. It warms you at the same time as making your hairs stand on end as you feel the temptation and fear from Mia.

Desired is a fantastic way to start a series and gain some pretty hardcore fans. There is a brilliant storyline and amount of description packed into a full short story. It wraps up perfectly but leaving the reader wanting more. I cannot wait for the second episode!!

A copy of Desired (True Alpha #1) was provided by the author, Alisa Woods, for the purpose of an honest and fair review.

Desired (True Alpha #1) by Alisa Woods is available at Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

 

*SPOTLIGHT* on Renea Mason’s ~Symphony of Light Series~

Paranormal Erotic Romance Series

Includes a MUST READ Excerpt from the New Release Between the Waters!

18+ Read

Renea Mason seres banner

If you love Paranormal Romance that is shall we say a little on the HOT side then Renea Mason’s Symphony of Light Series checks all the right boxes! Described as Fifty Shades meets The Black Dagger Brotherhood and Twilight. While others say it reminds them of the Night Huntress or Dark Hunter series’. But most agree it’s unlike any paranormal or erotic romance they’ve ever read……..

So far the series comprises three unique and sizzling reads: Symphony of Light and Winter, #1; Impostors’ Kiss # 0.5 and  Between the Waters #2, published on 15th May. Scroll down for the blurb on each of these books, find out about the author and read a SCORCHING  excerpt from Between the Waters. Please note that this excerpt is only suitable for mature readers aged 18+. 

Symphony of Light and Winter: Symphony of Light #1

He’s back from the dead. She has a lot of explaining to do. Can they quench the passion long enough to survive the truth?

51H5FvVUE0LBlurb

One woman. Seven men. All bound by one man’s undying devotion.

Fundraiser Linden Hill has a knack for reading people. She always knows which conversations will put a prospect at ease, which drink will loosen a patron’s lips—or his wallet, and how cleavage will make a donor sweeten the deal. She’s even foreseen her dateless weekends four hundred and sixty-four times in a row.

But ten years after watching life drain from her former mentor’s and first love’s eyes, her skills for divining the predictable are lost. When Cyril returns, he’s still gorgeous, but this time he’s beyond human, far less dead, and pissed. His lack of memory drives him to desperate acts, and his turbulent re-acquaintance with Linden pulls her into his war with a creature hell-bent on his destruction. His group of six supernatural men share a tantalizing secret, but despite the hunger, it’s love that leads her to sacrifice everything to save him…

Published by Etopia Press

Length: Novel Word Count: 88,375 Page Count: 389 Price: 5.99 ISBN: 978-1-940223-10-0 Heat Level: 4 Release Date: 06/21/2013

Best Paranormal Badge

Best New series

 

 

 

 

 

3rd Place – Best Paranormal Romance, Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewers Choice

2nd Place – Best New Paranormal Series, Paranormal Cravings Battle of the Books

Reviews

“Renea Mason’s book has everything you could want—a unique world, a panty dropping alpha male, a gripping plot and seamless writing that would never let on this was her first novel.” lbookbliss.com

“If you love Alexandra Ivy, Lara Adrian, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Lynsay Sands, Laura Wright, and all those other amazing paranormal authors that I absolutely love with all my heart…then you will LOVE Renea Mason and her brand new “Symphony of Light” Series.” BookReadsandReviews.com

Buy the book

Amazon.com (available at most international Amazon sites – Italy, Germany, Japan, Canada, UK etc.)  BarnesandNoble.com

AllRomanceeBooks.com   Kobo.com   Bookstrand.com

*Print edition available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Imposters’ Kiss: Symphony of Light Book 0.5

One night of sexual pleasure could teach a lesson in love.

51aAqPrD6DLBlurb

Cyril is weary from weeks of traveling the Scottish moors, but his luck takes a turn when he rescues a battered and broken child. To express his gratitude, the boy’s father offers Cyril a night of carnal indulgence with his eldest daughter. Cyril graciously accepts, looking forward to a night of sexual release to ease the loneliness of his travels.

But what the supernatural sex god and deliverer of souls doesn’t expect is to be taught a lesson in love from the young and beautiful Celestine.

In a night of passion, two lost spirits find solace in an impostor’s kiss: one longing for a love that doesn’t yet exist, the other drowning in pain and guilt over love lost. Neither is what they seem…but what they learn will change them forever…

Etopia Press

Length: Short Word Count: 7601 Page Count: 42 Price: 0.99 ISBN: 978-1-940223-62-9 Release Date: 11-15-2013

Reviews

“I loved this short story.  It gave us a glimpse into who Cyril is as a man.  His compassion, his sex appeal and his prowess.” BookReadsandReviews,com 

Buy the book

Amazon.com (available at other international Amazon sites – Canada, UK etc.)    BarnesandNoble.com

Kobo  Bookstrand  All Romance eBooks

Between the Waters: Symphony of Light #2

Magic is no match for love…

51BrPXYbG7LBlurb

Trapped somewhere between life and death, demigod Cyril has lost the ability to communicate with his love. But not before giving her valuable lessons in magic, as well as his blessing to move on without him.

Coming to terms with Cyril’s absence isn’t easy, but Linden is doing her best to honor his wishes. Until she receives an unusual request from Moreaux, an estranged member of Cyril’s family. Bizarre things are going on with Mary, the former housekeeper, and Linden can’t let them go. But when her investigation leads to a mistake that nearly costs her life, Cyril’s best friend, Overton, steps in and violates a promise he made centuries before to bring her back from the dead.

Gratitude turns to comfort, comfort turns to desire, and desire leads Linden to a shocking revelation. In her charge to uncover the truth behind Mary and Moreaux, she discovers a spell she can’t undo without leaving wounds on her heart, wounds she knows will never heal…

Etopia Press

Novel Word Count: 63434 Page Count: 42 ISBN: 978-1-94169-20-66 Release Date: 05-15-14

Buy the book

Amazon.com (available at other international Amazon sites – Canada, UK etc.)   BarnesandNoble.com   All Romance eBooks

18+ Excerpt from Between the Waters – in reading further you guarantee that you are age 18 years or over.

Chapter One

Lessons

“Linden…take your clothes off.” Cyril’s voice, low and commanding, laced tendrils of seduction through my mind. Even without his six feet five inches of supernatural perfection looming, he had control.

“Absolutely not. You’re not talking me into that again.” A world away, he still commanded my body. My stomach filled with warmth, and hairs raised on my arms with the cadence and tone in my mind. Damn it.

“How was I to know the man would be walking his dog so late? If your inferior senses had detected his presence, you could have hidden instead of running naked through the streets.” He snickered. “Look at it this way…you were lighter without clothes, and Michael’s power infusion gave you the ability to outrun the beast. Important knowledge, even if your hearing sucks.”

Ever since the accident, which left Cyril in another plane of existence, tormenting me remained his main form of entertainment. He took great pleasure in my uncertainty. Being separated from his body left him with metaphorical idle hands, and my brain the only thing within reach. He blamed his actions on not knowing which abilities I inherited when I destroyed Michael—my short-lived husband and all-around supernatural nuisance. The moment I plunged the knife into Michael’s back, something in me changed. Beyond the branching pattern of raised skin covering my back, the experience also altered my soul, but how was unclear. With Cyril as my guide, I never knew if I’d end up the victor or the prey.

“My hearing is fine. Besides, I couldn’t hear around all the bullshit you were spewing in my head.” I crossed my arms, still not quite comfortable speaking to him out loud. A delay occurred between my thoughts and his access to them. His interpretation of them was accurate about sixty percent of the time. Verbal communication allowed for instant understanding, when it worked.

“You’re not questioning me, are you? Do you want to learn or not?” The huskiness surrounding his words accented power and his centuries of experience. Since he was at my mercy until he once again inhabited his body, desperation for control led him to push boundaries.

As much as I hated to admit it, I needed him too, but letting him know was not an option. He was cocky enough. Another ounce of ego would make him unbearable.

“Mr. Aristin, do not think for one moment you are going to manipulate me. There needs to be trust.”

“I couldn’t agree more. Had you trusted me, we wouldn’t be in this mess.” He sighed and in a soft tone wrapped with demand said, “Now take your clothes off.”

“Can’t I just stick to releasing souls? That was easy, and I could leave my pants on.”

“No. You have much to learn.”

Cyril had let me know that he was not sure why, but the mixture of his blood in my veins and my proximity to Michael’s destruction gave me the ability to release souls. He had said that mankind should be damn thankful I was there to take his place as the gateway to the afterlife. Freeing their souls for the journey to heaven or hell saved them from an eternity in purgatory. But apparently that was only part of it.

“As long as you don’t start calling me Grim.” Maybe it wasn’t fair to forbid the nickname I bestowed upon him for his role as the soul deliverer, but I was beyond worrying about his sensitivities.

“I have far better names for you. Would you like to hear how you inspired them?”

“No. Let’s get this over with. It’s freezing.”

“Magic is more than an ability. It’s a skill. Surely our previous lessons have taught you that. Channeling the energy takes practice.”

“But you say it’s equal parts will and magic. Some situations require an influence and focus—spell component and chant. Like how you told me you created your family with the souls of three men, your blood, magic, and focused will. What does any of that have to do with getting naked?”

He growled. “Stop talking and do it. Trust me.” His use of trust as a trump card to win arguments was getting old.

I inhaled the crisp night air as the moon shone bright in the night sky, outlining everything in a strange, opaque aura. Its shadows appeared astral. It was almost midnight, and the night was cold. I looked behind me to make sure I was alone. Cyril’s lessons had brought us back to the cemetery where we originally met. The energy resulting from the intersection of two powerful ley lines would make it easier for me to learn. I moved my hands to the zipper on my coat.

“They are magical; the moon shadows, I mean.”

It sucked having him in my mind. A few seconds after a thought crossed he had full access to it as a memory. I was never alone except when he grew too weary to maintain the connection or when it dropped like bad cell phone reception. His presence was always a surprise. During rare merciful times, he’d let an embarrassing stray notion vanish without comment, but that was a rarity most days. The constant focus on controlling my thoughts wore on me. It was impossible to stop them from forming without thinking of why they shouldn’t be formed in the first place. Either way, I was screwed.

He must have sensed my turmoil because he changed tactics. “If you’d be so kind as to oblige my request…” But his attempt at manners was undermined by the growl reverberating between my ears. I couldn’t even roll my eyes in peace.

“Request, my ass. Besides, it’s cold.” No matter how much I wanted to resist, the guilt that gripped me for trapping him outside his body softened my response to his bullshit every time.

“You won’t be for long. Now get on with it; we haven’t got all night. I’m growing tired.”

Another quick look around revealed row after row of headstones. The crisp nip of winter air and the moon-bathed landscape awaited me. I shrugged off my coat, removed my shoes and socks, shimmied the jeans over my hips, and pulled the sweater over my head. Standing next to a pile of clothes in only panties and bra, I wrapped my arms across my chest. With the temperature near the low thirties, I shivered and looked up to the sky. Closing my eyes, I grumbled, “Now what?”

He laughed. “Oh, my dearest Linden, open your eyes and look down.”

Busted. I looked, but focused several feet away, avoiding my body. I focused on the grass trimmed in tiny white crystals of frost. So fucking cold.

“You naughty girl. When I told you to take your clothes off, I meant all of them. Do it. Then let me see.”

I huffed and reached around to unfasten my bra. The task proved difficult as my hands shook from the temperature, anger, and anxiety. Working the panties down my legs, I complained, “I’m going to die from hypothermia.”

Standing on a hill overlooking the Laurel Mountain range, in a cemetery, at midnight, talking to nothing but the night air while taking orders from a voice in my head was all the evidence I needed. I had finally gone insane.

“Show me.” The menace gone, seduction in its place.

I sighed and complied. My nipples were so puckered and hard they could have chiseled ice. My skin reddened from windburn.

A sound in my head like air being sucked through teeth echoed between my ears. “You are so beautiful. When I’m back, I’m going to dedicate a week to savoring each part of your body. I’m going to wrap my lips around each of those rosy buds. Without touching any other part of your body, I’ll make you writhe, pant, and moan for me.”

Damn him. The breeze blew, but I was immune. The heat that grew from within, negating its effects. “Cyril, please…” I intended a warning, but he interpreted my words as a plea.

“I feel your need. If I was there, I’d bend you over the bench, watch your red hair drape over your back, and fuck you until you screamed my name. When the echoes of your passion stopped filling my ears, I’d sit you atop me and bury myself inside you and lathe the milky white skin of your breasts with my tongue. When those beautiful green eyes told me you surrendered, I’d bite and consume you as you consumed me.”

“Stop. Cyril, please. I am on edge. I’m ready to ignite. You can feel it. Please don’t make it worse.” He held a switch to my body’s thermostat. The only thing chilled was the place between my legs where moisture pooled. What other woman could say that she bedded a god made for sex? The goddess who created him, to see to her every physical need, perfected every detail. The man was a Titan in bed, and damn my luck, the universe gave me a taste before taking him, just so I’d know what I was missing. Fucking fates.

“When you bring me back to you, where I belong, I’ll make it up to you. You have my word. Are you still cold?”

“No.” In fact, I was surprised I didn’t combust.

“See, you should trust me more often.”

I scoffed.

“Now your lesson…Light, close your eyes.”

Lowering my lids, I did as he asked.

“Can you feel the pulse?”

I focused, blocking out the whistle caused by the breeze blowing across my ears. The cold numbed my skin once my Cyril-induced inferno extinguished. It shook the hairs on my arms, tickling.

“Walk to it.”

I did. As I got closer, it thundered in my brain. Cyril’s identity, my anxiety, and the strange sensation caused something akin to a headache to take hold. “It’s making my head hurt.”

“That’s expected. The pulse has increased. Now, find the place where it’s so fast, it’s sustained. The pain will subside when you are in the precise spot. You’ll learn how to pace out the pinnacle, and you won’t need to focus on the feeling.”

“Is that what you were doing the first time I saw you here? You were counting.”

“Yes. The lines shift with the season, and winter is two paces to the left of summer. It’s easier to count since I’ve been here before. Better than getting naked and risk you attacking.”

“I never would have attacked you!”

“You may have been young, but the hunger in your eyes for me, even then, was unmistakable.”

“You are impossible. Hurry, I’m getting cold.”

“Do you need me to heat you up again? Should I tell you about how, if I was there, I’d drop to my knees, spread your legs and run my tongue up the inside of your thigh, savoring the essence. I’d lick—”

“Stop it. You can’t keep talking about sex.”

“Yes, I can. I’m made for sex. I am inseparable from sex.”

“But you’re not here, and it’s torture.”

“Seems a fitting price for not trusting me with our future.”

“I was only trying to help.”

“By giving yourself to a psychopath in a ridiculous effort to save me? I’m the closest thing to a god that exists here, and you thought to save me? My only vulnerability is you. You will be my destruction. Now that I have you, I won’t be without you. It’s your stubbornness that risks us both.”

“Well, sorry I told you I loved you. I should have left with Michael and kept you in the dark, wondering.”

“I would have found you. Besides, it was your careless disregard of magic that lead to my imprisonment.”

“Imprisonment? Really? Could you be more dramatic? I was trying to protect you.”

A sound that reminded me of a snort resonated. “Yes, and a ridiculous notion it was. Keep moving toward the source.”

“Whatever.” I cracked my lids the slightest bit to look for obstacles in my path. The pulsing stabilized at the center of the large circle of gravestones. The Nester family, I remembered. “Now what am I supposed to do? The frequency is sustained, and the headache is gone.”

“Still cold?”

“Fuck you.” He knew I wasn’t. Another one of his games was to ask questions he already knew the answer to just to prove his point.

“That’s my girl.” He laughed. “Clear your mind.”

“Easier said than done with the current infestation.” Removing all thoughts of Cyril and his tongue proved difficult. I focused on the grass, taking in the uneven blades.

“Now visualize. Look through the surface of the Earth and picture the energy. Picture pulling it through your body. As I said before, magic is little more than focused will, woven with the forces that sustain this world.”

It took a while to clear my head, and thankfully, he remained silent. Allowing numbness to fill my limbs and seep into my mind, I penetrated layers of earth, reaching the electric white lights branching under the surface. Each juncture enhanced the brightness. I focused on the nearest point and pictured drawing it toward me.

Soon a surge started in my feet, pins and needles followed, as the energy crept through my nervous system. I closed my eyes. The current continued until I was enveloped in the light, feeling invincible, but only for a moment. The energy started to recede.

“Linden, don’t let go. Use the chant. Remember how I told you to use the words to focus. Say them slowly. Nium parnum omsti narum.”

Mentally I grasped at the light as my lips formed the words. Even though not magical, each syllable helped channel the essence. I regained control and was once again overcome.

His next command caught me off guard. “Do not speak. Think of Clarence.”

Clarence? Why? I thought it odd but didn’t comment. Clarence, my friend and colleague, was the furthest thing from my mind. We spoke the night before. He was still vacillating between being pissed at me for bringing him into all this supernatural bullshit and appreciating me for adding excitement to his life.

Another set of instructions. “Think of how he looks. What he sounds like.”

Clarence. His smooth, coffee-colored complexion, baldhead, swimmer’s build, and slight Southern drawl.

My skin rippled like water and blended with the tingling caused by the energy. A straining from within—stretching muscle, shifting bone—caught me by surprise. It was not wholly painful, as the pulse served as an excellent analgesic.

“Keep thinking of him, concentrate.”

Entranced by the light and Cyril’s words, Clarence’s mannerisms came to mind. The way he fiddled with his collar, the strange way he cleared his throat when we passed a sexy man and how he held my elbow each time we crossed the street. I was all- things Clarence. I held the image, unmoving.

“That’s it. Feel him, know him, become him.”

Another focused thought on Clarence’s wide, mischievous smile and the corners of my lips lifted, mirroring my thoughts of his actions.

“That’s it, become Clarence.”

Deep breaths helped my concentration. I embodied his six plus feet of height. His toes, his large hands, his… “What the hell?” My eyes flew open.

Cyril screamed in my mind, “No, gain focus. Gain focus! Use the chant!”

Oh, dear God. I was a six-foot-tall…African- American…man. Holy shit. I was Clarence. What. The. Fuck!

“Linden, you have to calm down. Don’t let the magic snap back. If you do, it will be much worse. It’s going to be bad enough already.”

I turned my hands over and over again, taking in their size, color, and masculinity. Another glance revealed I no longer had breasts and a little lower… I was going to need more therapy.

The hands I scrutinized shook, and the sight disoriented. Rippling started in my skin, and the light began to recede.

“Damn it. Too late. Linden, I’m so sorry.”

was he sorry? For turning me into Clarence? But my knees buckled, and I fell to the ground. The energy sucked the last bit of warmth with it as it receded into the earth. My bones gave and muscles cramped in places I didn’t know I had. The pain crippled as I lay writhing on the ground.

“So sorry. Breathe through the pain.”

“Ahhhh…” The scream escaped from between my teeth. My eyes closed from contractions that raked my body. Some kind of grunting pushed through my throat. I was going to die.

“You’ll be OK. I wish I could help you.”

“Fuck you! What did you do?” Another violent spasm and sweat broke out across my skin. So cold.

“It should end soon. Just a little longer.”

Another groan I couldn’t control. I gritted my teeth from pain and the chill. More perspiration. I wanted to cry, but it would’ve hurt too much.

The jerking muscles quieted, and with that came the ability to move my limbs. I forced my eyes to open. Thank God! I had never been so happy to see my breasts.

“Light, I didn’t do anything. It’s all you.” Because Light was his pet name for me, I both loved and loathed him in that moment.

I formed my mouth into an O, and I steadied my breathing. Something wet slid down my forehead. What on earth? I opened my eyes to find my entire body covered in a thick, clear, mucous substance. It wasn’t sweat after all. I collected some and flung it from my fingertips. “What the fuck is this?”

“That, my dear, is shifting residue. It’s the by- product your cells produce when you take the form of another. You used to be quite found of it. It’s what your dearly departed Michael used to craft those little animal figurines he gifted you. Isn’t it romantic?”

“I would so punch you if I could.” I wiped the sticky disgusting liquid from my cheek.

“Do you have any idea what this means?” Elation sounded in his voice. My body felt like I fell from a thirty-story building, and he sounded like it was his fucking birthday.

“It means I’m bare-ass naked, lying on the ground after midnight, in a cemetery covered in goo.

Oh…and a minute ago I hallucinated that I had a penis.”

“That was no hallucination, Light. Isn’t this wonderful?” He was excited. Cyril didn’t get excited. Even when we first met and he discovered my immunity to his curse, he never let his enthusiasm show.

Another sweep of goo from my arm, I breathed heavy, rising on all fours. The slime dripped from my body, leaving tiny pools. “You’ll excuse me if I don’t see the wonder in all of this.”

“Linden, you mimicked Clarence. You changed shapes. You became him. I can’t even do that. I always envied Michael. Think of the possibilities.”

“Became Clarence? I feel like I gave birth to him.” The substance coating my skin started to harden. My clothes lay in a pile about ten feet away, but it felt more like ten miles.

“The process is a bit messier than I expected, but do you know what else this means?”

Right hand, left knee, then left hand, right knee. Each movement required thought, conviction. I needed to get to my sweater before the stuff hardened. “I.” Breath. “Don’t.” Huff. “Know.” Grunt. “What. Does. It.” Hyperventilate. “Fucking.” Growl. “Mean?” I fisted the sweater and rubbed at the small crystals forming on my skin.

“It means you are much stronger than I thought. Of course, you’ll need practice.”

I shrugged on my coat. Screw the underwear. Wiping down my legs, the residue splintered and flaked to the ground like small snowflakes. “Great. I can be Clarence. You know, one Clarence is more than enough.”

“You can do something I cannot. I wonder what else you can do.”

“Hell. No. We are done with your experiments.” I leaned back, wiggled my bottom into my jeans and eyed my car. Another ten feet. Fuck!

“You are strong enough to bring me back after all.”

On my hands and knees, I came to a halt. Why I looked up when he pissed me off was beyond me. It wasn’t as if he could hear me any better. “What? There was a possibility I wouldn’t be able to do it? When were you planning to tell me you might be stuck forever?” Five more feet. Never gonna make it.

“Everything is equally possible and impossible, Light. I hadn’t planned to tell you.”

“Oh, save your philosophical bullshit. I’m not in the mood.” My hand slapped hard against the door of my black Pontiac Solstice, and I pulled myself up, leaning against the car, still trying to catch my breath.

“I didn’t think it was possible, but I love you even more.”

“Funny, I didn’t think…that I’d want to strangle you any more than the night I ran naked through the street while being chased by that beast of a dog. But again, you’ve outdone yourself, my love.”

“Light, necessity is the mother of invention.”

I groaned at the pain and his words and opened the car door, falling into the seat. I grabbed each leg and pulled them inside one at a time. The smell of the leather soothed, familiar. I took a deep breath. “Nice quote. Who said it?”

“I did.”

I slumped against the steering wheel, trying to muster the strength to drive. “No, I mean originally.”

“That’s what I meant. Many attribute it to an old English proverb, but it was in a speech I gave in Greece, around 400 BC.”

Immortals. Bah! “Is there anything you haven’t done? I mean you’re essentially a vampire with your fangs, you’re immortal, you can summon wings, use magic like a wizard, and escort the dead. How does anyone compete with that?”

“They don’t.”

My groan of frustration surprised even me. I turned the key. The engine roared to life. “Why Clarence?” I cranked up the heat and rubbed my hands together, trying to generate warmth from friction. Finally, I slumped back in the seat and rested my hand on the gearshift.

“Why not?”

I had no energy for his games. Enigmatic pain the ass.

“I heard that.”

“Good. Now shut up and let me drive.” My teeth chattered.

“Would you like me to warm you up? I could—”

“God help you…” I grabbed the rearview mirror and stared into it. Glaring at myself, knowing he’d see my reflection, I focused my anger. Goo had crystallized in my hair, and faint bruises formed under my skin. “If you say one more word, I will pull over and hack my own head off just to stop your incessant bullshit. Then who will you annoy? Huh?”

I reached up and moved a strand of hair, and they all moved. My hair was so hard an eighties girl would’ve been envious. “And Cyril, if I have to shave my head because of this, I’m not bringing you back. Do you hear me? Never. Coming. Back.”

He laughed. “Did I ever tell you that your feistiness makes me hard? If I were there I’d—”

“Don’t push me.”

************************************************

 About the Author

Renea MasonRenea Mason writes steamy romances to help even out the estrogen to testosterone imbalance caused by living in a house full of men.

When she isn’t putting pen to paper crafting sensual stories filled with supernatural lovers, she spends time with her beyond-supportive husband, two wonderful sons and three loving but needy cats.

Her debut novel, Symphony of Light and Winter, finished second for Best New Paranormal Series of 2013 in Paranormal Cravings’ Battle of the Books and received a third place award for Best New Paranormal Romance of 2013 in The Paranormal Romance Guild’s Reviewers Choice Awards.

Renea is a member of Romance Writers of AmericaThe Paranormal Romance Guild and The Fantasy, Futuristic and Paranormal subchapter of the Romance Writers of America.

She is also a founding member of Coffee Talk Writers and the Coffee Talk website–a site designed to support established writers and foster new talent.

Follow Renea Mason

http://www.ReneaMason.com

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http://www.amazon.com/Renea-Mason/e/B00DIMOX2S/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1

Coming Soon in 2014 – Curing Doctor Vincent – An Erotic Novella Trilogy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yellow (A Sydney Hart novel #2) by Tim O’Rourke

Yellow (Sydney Hart #2)Blurb: In love with Vincent and trying to move on with her life, Sydney Hart is visited by an old friend. When this friend suddenly goes missing, Sydney finds herself in a desperate race against time, not only to save her friend’s life, but also her relationship with Vincent.

With Michael wanting to spend more time with her in order to rekindle their relationship, Sydney’s life and emotions become ever more complex.

Trying to stay focused on the hunt for her missing friend, Sydney has to figure out who is telling her the truth; but most importantly, who is Mr. Yellow?

‘Yellow’ (A Sydney Hart Novel) Book Two.

*A New Adult Novel Recommended for mature readers*

Another masterpiece from Tim O’Rourke! There is nothing that this author can do wrong! Yellow covers many genres, including thriller, paranormal, horror, mystery and romance! Not to mention some cheeky dialogue in-between to lighten the tension and keep the reader amused. Add to this some great characters, nightmare ‘flashbacks’ and some great drama.

Each series of Tim O’Rourke’s covers many genres, however each is different and original, and Sydney Hart is no exception. I love the supernatural element of this series and how it affects Sydney, but rather than have me spoiling it I like the idea of keeping it a mystery and leaving you a little curious!

With Sydney now on leave she is spending all of her time with Vincent, but there is always that question deep down of ‘where can she go from here?’ The story opens up to a tender, loving scene between Sydney and Vincent. It is beautifully written, sensual and therefore, a little mature for the younger reader (I’d recommend 17yrs+). However, it is still very sweet and draws the reader in instantaneously. And after a small reminder of what had happened previously in ‘Witch’ (Book 1) we return to where Sydney is at, in her little ‘bubble‘.

So instead of facing the world…….. I hid beneath the sheets of my bed, locked tightly in Vincent’s arms…………. we lay in each other’s arms, listening to soft music filtering in from the living room, and making love.”

As the story unfolds, the reader is acquainted with Lisa, Sydney’s best friend. Lisa’s visit is interesting, a little unwelcome at first. But Lisa is curious as to what Sydney is up to, at the same time as caring and wanting to encourage her to move on. Lisa is also a funny character and I caught myself laughing at some of the dialogue between her and Sydney.

It is at this point that the reader is made aware of Mr. Yellow and his mysteriousness, which is just what Lisa found so intriguing about him. Who is he? What’s his background? Will he be the one? However, (later in the story) Lisa appears to have gone missing but will Sydney be able to piece together what has happened? Remembering Lisa’s last visit to her home and connecting it to her ‘flashback’ nightmares when dreaming, Sydney decides to do a little investigating!

Some of the scenes, in particular the nightmare sequences can be quite horrific, scary and violent/gory. Sydney sees some horrific and violent events unfold in a household but can she make sense of them? There is also a sense of eeriness that the reader will feel at parts, in particular when Sydney visits Lisa’s house and sees a dark figure inside! This scene really did make me shudder!!!

As well as dealing with her feelings from Book 1, Vincent, trying to solve the puzzle of Lisa’s disappearance, her nightmares and the mysterious Mr. Yellow, Sydney also has to tackle her feelings towards Michael. After a quick fling with him in Book 1 he has developed feelings towards her, but she in in love with Vincent. Due to Vincent’s circumstances, Sydney is aware that a long term relationship could be unlikely but can she betray Vincent to ensure a relationship with Michael?

Even the reader is torn at this point as both Michael and Vincent are fantastic characters, and both have deep feelings for Sydney. They are great guys – I think it’s a pity she can’t have both. Albeit, some may disagree! The reader cannot help but wonder ‘what will become of Michael?’ if he doesn’t end up with Sydney. (You can feel a little sorry for Michael.) At the same time is staying with Vincent a realistic option?

Although it has been over 12 months since reading the first book of the series, I found Tim O’Rourke easily manages to remind the reader the main points of book 1, mostly through dialogue and Sydney’s thoughts throughout the book. However, they are camouflaged well into the story of Book 2 enabling a fresh reader to the series to pick up Yellow and understand what is happening and what has already taken place.

There are so many twists and turns, great characters and constant on-going adventure from beginning to end. You can liken it very much to your favourite roller-coaster and once you start, you just don’t want to get off. Any reader, of either gender over 17, who loves such a mix of genres to read will have it all in any one of Tim’s books. If you haven’t already, you MUST pick up a Tim O’Rourke book. You will not be disappointed!!!!

Yellow (A Sydney Hart novel #2) was provided by the author, Tim O’Rourke, for the purpose of an honest and fair review.

You can purchase Yellow from Amazon UK and Amazon US as e-book and/or paperback.

You can also purchase Witch (Sydney Hart #1) at Amazon UK and Amazon US!

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

Blue Moon (The Blue Crystal Trilogy #1) by Pat Spence (blurb, review & GIVEAWAY)

Blue Moon (The Blue Crystal Trilogy #1)

Not only do we have the pleasure in reviewing the latest book published by Hashtag Books, the brilliant supernatural horror Blue Moon (The Crystal Trilogy #1) by Pat Spence BUT we are also giving away 2 ebooks! For a chance to win one all you have to do is add your name in the comments list below (or on our Facebook page)! The two lucky winners will be randomly selected on Sunday 13th April 2014. Good luck, guys 🙂

BLURB: “Forget vampires,” he laughed dismissively.

“Who wants to drink blood for eternity? What we have discovered is far more seductive and a great deal more dangerous…”

When 17-year old Emily Morgan meets beautiful but strange Theo de Lucis, there is an immediate attraction between them. But what is his secret? What ancient link ties him to Emily? And what is the significance of the Blue Moon Ball?

As Emily is drawn irrevocably into the glamorous and mysterious world of the de Lucis family, so she is forced to change every perception she has ever had about life, love, aging and death. The truth is terrifying and the consequences unthinkable…

A supernatural horror story, based on society’s obsession with aging and the desire for eternal youth, Blue Moon is the first book in the ‘Blue Crystal’ trilogy…

“For all ‘Twilight’ fans who want a change from vampires, this is the book for you.”

REVIEW:

To say I LOVED Blue Moon is an understatement. I was spellbound from very early on in the story as the characters and mystery captivated me. The intensity is ongoing as the heartbeat keeps pounding through the supernatural mystery and horror. Blue Moon is likened to ‘Twilight’ without the vampires, and to begin with that is the feel of the story as the main character Emily Morgan first meets with Theo and Violet de Lucis. However, Blue Moon took me on a nostalgic journey as Enid Blyton was mentioned, albeit a more mature read. As Emily secretly tries to find out more about Theo and his family she puts herself in grave danger at times as she explores Hartswell Hall alone, with the risk of being caught.

 

The language and descriptions throughout Blue Moon are very powerful, allowing the reader to feel every sense of fear that Emily experiences. Pat Spence creates amazing atmosphere, some moments are eery and dark, whilst other scenes are touching and warm. The story was so profound that one scene in particular had me almost in tears!

 

Two examples of the language and the power it has over the reader are extracts from early on in the story when Emily first encounters Theo and her thoughts on meeting him:

 

Extract 1 (the encounter)

 

Gazing into his eyes, I was lost in their intensity. It was like looking into the bluest sky and carrying on to infinity. I felt mesmerised, hypnotised and transfixed all at once.”

 

Extract 2 (Emily’s reaction)

 

This was like nothing I had ever encountered before. It was all consuming, all-powerful and quite simply beyond my sphere of experience. Some deep inner instinct warned me it might almost be dangerous, but this simply added to his attraction and, if I’m honest, gave me the greatest thrill of all.”

 

The reader can relate to Emily on many levels. We all feel love, and her love for Theo is deeper than any other. She is drawn to him and has a connection that only they seem to sense, Theo even moreso. Emily is confused at times, not knowing whether to believe Theo’s story as some parts make sense but it is all too fairytale-like! Is he just a fantasist or is there meaning behind what he says?

 

Firstly, there is the sheer beauty of the whole of the de Lucis family. One finds it impossible to overt their gaze. And how soon do they rebuild Hartswell Hall and it’s grounds to an impeccable level? Surely that cannot be! The reader truly becomes more and more surrounded by strange happenings, incredible characters (including Dark Ones, shapeshifters and reptilia) and questions with few answers. You become absorbed into the story just as deeply as Emily is.

 

As the story begins to touch on the idea of eternal youth, or the alternative, that is when the secrecy and mystery begins as well as the horror. I found the horror scenes to be horrendous, hideous and more psychological than gory. They certainly encourage you to think about the ageing process and the lengths that some go to in order to retain their youthfulness.

 

Emily’s family and friends are the characters that keep her truly grounded and help her to feel ‘normal’. Living with her mother and grandfather provides Emily with the support she needs from a loving family who only wish the best for her. And being able to speak to her friends, Tash and Seth, allow Emily the outlet she needs by being there for her when she feels she needs to talk and seek reason. However, Theo just has this hold over her and Emily can’t let go.

 

I recommend Blue Moon for readers 15yrs+ due to the subject matter and horror. Readers will be as captivated and drawn to Blue Moon as I was. I cannot wait for the second instalment.

 

A copy of Pat Spence’s Blue Moon (The Blue Crystal Trilogy #1) was provided by Hashtag Books for the purpose of an honest and fair review.

 

You can find ebook and paperback versions on Amazon UK and Amazon US.

 

DON’T FORGET TO ENTER OUR GIVEAWAY FOR THE CHANCE TO WIN A COPY (2 copies up for grabs)! CLOSING DATE IS SUNDAY 13TH APRIL 2014 – just add your name in the comments below or on Facebook!

 

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

 

*RELEASE DAY BLITZ* UNBOUND, by Cat Miller

Lovers of Paranormal Romance featuring the world of vamps will want to check out UNBOUND, book #1 in The Forbidden Bond Series, by Cat Miller, which RELEASES TODAY ! Scroll down to get the inside information on what looks like a fantastic addition to the genre, including book links, author info and details of a super giveaway!
Tina 🙂

Title: Unbound

Author: Cat Miller

Series: The Forbidden Bond Series  (Book 1)

Genre: Paranormal Romance/Vampires

Publisher: Montlake Romance

Release Date: April 1 2014

Edition/Formats It Will Be Available In: Audio Book, eBook, Print

Blurb/Synopsis:

 Girl gone wild . . .

College is supposed to be a time of discovery, but Danielle Vaughn never imaged it would be like this: heightened senses, supernatural powers, and a sudden craving for human blood. Dani is a demi-vamp, the daughter of a human psychic and a vampire noble, a living secret kept hidden for twenty-one years.

As Dani’s heritage manifests itself, her thirst for blood is matched only by her hunger for Chase Diedrick. But as the son of the Vampire Council’s most powerful ruling family, Chase is already promised to another. Dani saw Council politics destroy her mother’s life; she won’t let the same thing happen to her. Besides, there’s no shortage of men who are eager to satisfy her every need, including the alluring vampire Kayden.

Unfortunately, Dani also has no shortage of enemies. Her heightened powers of telepathy and telekinesis attract the attention of a rogue vamp who preys on gifted vampires, absorbing their skills along with their lifeblood. Now, Dani must seek the Council’s help to quickly master her new vampire life . . . or risk losing it.

Book Links

YouTube Book Trailer

CatMillerFB Banner2

Click on the above link to enter the super giveaway!
Cat Miller

About the Author

I was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland and now I live not far from my birth place in PerryHall, Maryland. I have two teenage daughters and a man that keep me busy when I’m not working full-time as a Certified Medical Coder. I’m an avid reader and I love all genre of romantic fiction from historical to contemporary to paranormal. Sleeping has always been a problem for me so most nights I can be found in the living room reading or writing instead of in bed like the rest of the world. I don’t watch television. It’s not a conscious decision, it just never occurs to me to turn it on when I have books to read and writing to do. It can actually be a hazard, because I never know what the weather will be until I look outside and I have to rely on my kids and coworkers for local and world news. I love creating the characters you love and love to hate. My characters remind me of people I know and people I wish I had never known.

Author Links

Seconds Before Sunrise, #2 in The Timely Death Trilogy, by Shannon A Thompson

Seconds Before SunriseCompelling and Addictive!

Young Adult Paranormal/Fantasy Romance

Seconds Before Sunrise, the second book in author’s Shannon A. Thompson’s Timely Death Trilogy, continues the epic tale of Light versus Dark, at the centre of which is the heatfelt love story between the Shades Eric and Jessica. It has a compelling and addictive narrative which explores the elemental themes of good versus evil, love and self-sacrifice and fate versus free-will. All lovers of paranormal and fantasy romance are advised to check out this series so that they do not miss out on a fantastic reading experience.

I was given an Advanced Reader Copy of the novel, due out on 27th March, for an honest and unbiased review, which is posted below: 

Book Blurb

“Chaos within destiny. It was the definition of our love.”

Eric has weeks before his final battle when he’s in an accident. Forced to face his human side, he knows he can’t survive if he fights alone. But he doesn’t want to surrender, even if he becomes the sacrifice for war. Jessica’s memory isn’t the only thing she’s lost. Her desire to find her parents is gone and so is her confidence. But when fate leaves nightmares behind, she decides to find the boy she sees in them, even if it risks her sanity.

My Review

Please note that my review contains some spoilers for Minutes Before Sunset. If you plan to read this series, you may therefore wish to check out my review of this first (click on the title for the link).

In the previous instalment, Minutes Before Sunset, we met Eric Welborn, who as the First Descendant, Shoman in his Shade form, is destined to battle to the death with the Descendant of Light, enemies of the Dark, to safeguard the fate of his kind. Eric found out that the unknown Shade, ignorant of her birthright, whom he trained to develop and control her powers, and Jessica Taylor, a new student at his high school, are  one and the same. Not only that, but Jessica and Eric fall in love, a love that threatens the approaching battle as Jessica’s very existence, as the third Descendant, could jeopardise his victory. To protect Eric and his mission, as well as Jessica, the Shade Elders remove her memories of what she is and her relationship to Eric.

Seconds Before Sunrise continues the tale of Jessica and Eric and the approaching confrontation between Dark and Light. I particularly loved how the author delves into Jessica’s psyche to illustrate that she is aware that all is not well as she feels that something is missing. It is only in her subconscious mind, through frequent and vivid nightmares, that she maintains a tenuous link to past events and the present menace which she somehow senses. Although she is weakened by her memory loss and does not comprehend what her dreams are about or why she is having them, her inner strength compels her to find out their meaning. At the same time Jessica cannot help but be drawn to Eric Wellborn, the taciturn and mysterious boy in her class……

Eric struggles to maintain the required distance between them for her safety as well as that of his people but Jessica and fate have other ideas. Jessica also has to contend with male attention from other quarters and danger is ever present. The tension ratchets up after Eric’s accident, secrets unravel and the plot becomes darker and more sinister as the final battle looms.

Once again I loved how Shannon Thompson created and maintained suspense throughout the tale as neither the Light nor the Dark  recognise each other in their human form. Protection of this human identity is paramount for safety and cannot be compromised. Although the reader is familiar with the human form of the characters who represent the Dark, the identities of those who are fighting for the Light is  not revealed, which keeps the reader guessing and adds tension. Another successful plot device is that the chapters are written either from the POV of Jessica or Eric, which gives a deep insight into their motivations and emotions. The novel also contains many vivid and imaginative paranormal scenes which transport the reader into the worlds of the Light and the Dark.

The supporting characters are well drawn, from the adults to Eric and Jessica’s fellow pupils.  We can only guess at their true identity and nature. Although I have my own opinions as to who is Eric’s arch nemesis, the Descendant of Light, I know that such is the skill of this author that I am likely to be surprised when his identity and those of others are revealed.

Seconds Before Sunrise is a truly emotional and compulsive read, with a suspenseful and fascinating plot that becomes darker as we approach the climax and I am itching to know how the series will conclude! I recommend it to readers of both adult and young adult paranormal romance.

To read an interview with Shannon A. Thompson in which she answers a series of questions about her inspiration for her work, her writing process and more and to read an excerpt from Seconds Before Sunrise, in advance of its publication,click here.

To read an earlier post, in which Shannon talks about her inspiration behind the series, please click here.

Tina 🙂

Author Shannon A Thompson website

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AEC Stellar Publishing

Cover artist Viola Estrella

Publication Date: 27 Mar 2014

*INTERVIEW* with Shannon A. Thompson and an EXCERPT from her forthcoming release SECONDS BEFORE SUNRISE!

Headshot of Shannon ThompsonToday we are delighted to feature an interview with Shannon A. Thompson, author of The Timely Death Trilogy, a Young Adult paranormal romance. The first novel in the series, Minutes Before Sunset, one of our top reads for 2013, was reviewed on this blog last year and I have re-posted it underneath this post to give you a chance to read about it again. It is a series which examines the elemental power struggle between Dark and Light and the power of love, destiny and self-sacrifice.  Paranormal romance lovers will not want to miss it!

Seconds Before SunriseLater this week, on 27th March, Shannon will be releasing the second novel in the trilogy, Seconds Before Sunrise. I was fortunate to receive an Advanced Reader Copy of this book to review and I’ll be posting my thoughts on it tomorrow – but I will say that it is just as an addictive read as the first instalment! Now over to Shannon!

* * * * * * * * * * * *

1.Your first published novel, November Snow, is a YA Sci-Fi tale and The Timely Death Trilogy is a YA paranormal. What do you think prompted you to write in these genres and have you any plans at the moment to write in another genre?

I’m actually a huge believer in writers exploring every possible genre they have time for. I have poetry and a short story (military fiction) published, too. Artists grow by pushing through their comfort boundaries. My next novel is going to be a YA, dystopian, but my most challenging work yet has been a novel directed at 20-somethings.

2. Your website is full of helpful advice to writers and aspiring writers. Can you describe your writing process in five words?

The characters are in charge.

3. Are any of the characters in your novels based on people you know or reflect elements of your own personality? As a writer how useful do you think the art of people watching is?

I don’t purposely base my characters off of real-life people, but after I’ve been removed from a piece for a few years, I start to see similarities. Watching people is really important, but I mainly study psychology and sociology in my spare time. In college, I was originally a psychology major, but I decided on English instead because I knew I had to follow my dream. I think I made the “write” decision.

4. If you could give an aspiring writer one tip, what would it be?

Write with passion; succeed with self-disicipline. This has been my personal mantra, but it mainly means this: if you remind yourself of how much you love writing, nothing will stop you from achieving your dreams.

5. Congratulations on graduating from University and gaining your bachelor’s degree in English. What are your plans for the future and when do you hope to complete the final novel in The Timely Death Trilogy?

Thank you! It’s been a wild ride. The trilogy was actually completed before I ever submitted it to my publisher, so it’s already written. I plan on publishing the first of a new series before I publish the last book of my trilogy. I’m very excited for my next novel plans, too, because I think it’ll give my readers another range of emotions and experiences. It’s a lot more serious and dark, like November Snow is, but it’s going to be my first novel that is told from only one perspective. I also got to include pets this time!

6. What is your favourite genre to read and what are you reading at the moment?

The 5th Wave – my friend recommended it, and I’m always up for recommendations. I’m planning on reading more poetry next. I love poetry.

7. What do you love most about being a writer?

Being able to wake up and go to bed knowing that I am pursuing what I love and always will love. Too many people sacrifice their dreams, which is truly tragic, because I think our dream is how we ultimately express ourselves, even after we are long gone.

8.Tomorrow our blog is featuring our review of Seconds Before Sunrise, the second book in The Timely Death Trilogy. Do you want to say anything about the book or share anything about it with readers?

How about I give you an inclusive excerpt???

ERIC

“Dad.” My tone was sharp. “You can’t change it now, and you shouldn’t want to.” I wanted to continue, but the door rattled with an assortment of rushed knocking.

“It’s probably Jonathon,” my dad said, standing, but I stopped him.

“I got it,” I said, walking downstairs to get it myself. My aggravation grew as Jonathon continued to knock. He knew Mindy and Noah wouldn’t be home. He could’ve transported in.

“You don’t have to knock—” I silenced when I opened the door and saw the person in front of me. Her hand hung in the air, ready to knock again, and her brown hair frizzed around her scowl. “Jessica—”

“We need to talk,” she said, barging into my house.

“Wha—what?” She was the last person I needed around me. “You can’t be here.”

“I don’t care,” she said.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Thank you for the interview Shannon! Your answers to the questions are fascinating for both readers and writers to ponder. I particularly liked your answer that ‘the characters are in charge’ when you are writing. I also find that you delve deep into the characters’ psyches in your writing and this clearly reflects your interest in psychology. I am glad that you opted to follow your dream and wish you every success with your upcoming release Seconds Before Sunrise and your future works. Tina 🙂

To Find out More

You can read more here (http://www.amazon.com/Seconds-Before-Sunrise-Shannon-Thompson/dp/1940820030/ ) or if you want to check out the first novel, Minutes Before Sunset, click here (http://www.amazon.com/Minutes-Before-Sunset-Timely-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B00CKN4RFE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1392688743&sr=8-1&keywords=Minutes+Before+Sunset )

Minutes Before Sunset recently hit 100 ratings and 58 reviews with a 4.48 star average on Goodreads! (https://www.goodreads.com/series/121294-the-timely-death-trilogy)

To Connect with Shannon

Author Shannon A Thompson website

Facebook

AEC Stellar Publishing

Cover artist Grace Griffin, Autumn Fog Photography

Dark Indiscretions, by Shakuita Johnson

Dark Indiscretions Book cover

Fun and Fast Paced Urban Fantasy!

Adult content

Dark Indiscretions is a fun read, containing a fresh take on the world of supernatural beings. Although it contains some dark themes, it is also full of humour, feisty females, alpha males and characters whom the reader grows to love despite their many flaws. Due to the inclusion of some hot love making, including m/m scenes, the book is an adult read.

Book Blurb (summary)

What happens when your family is scarier than any nightmare and you don’t want to follow in their footsteps? Do you stay or rebel and have them turn on you? Jennifer Johnston experiences first hand why whispers are spoken in the dark about her species’ being evil when she was just a century old. What should have been another family argument over why she didn’t want to keep the bloodlines “pure” by marrying her brother turned into a nightmare and left her with more than tortured memories.

Jackson Dawls and Taylor Durham have been pack mates, best friends, and the other’s mate for as long as they could remember. A deadly species all their own but even they feared Mystics and their cruel and barbaric ways, but unforeseen circumstances bring them face to face with not one but a few. Will their lives be in danger or is something great and unexpected awaiting them?   They also have to stay under the radar of the human society that is set out to destroy those they believe to be a danger to mankind.

When the three meet long ago secrets are brought to the light. Not only do they Jackson, Taylor and Jenny have to learn to get along with each other because they are fated mates, but someone is stalking Jennifer and performing sinister acts.  Jennifer must seek guidance from old acquaintances and form unexpected alliances. She is met with riddles and startling revelations that she never would have imagined possible.

My Review

In Dark Indiscretions supernatural beings co-exist with human kind. Jennifer Johnston, the heroine, is a Mystic (a Vampyra Shapeshifting Witch). Jennifer is not typical of her race, who take pleasure in sadistic behaviour and who are regarded as evil by other supernatural beings. Instead, she has a conscience and does her utmost to resist the pull of the evil that nevertheless resides within her. Despite this, she is capable of great evil if the need arises.

Jennifer’s battle to go against the wishes of her family and not engage in an incestuous relationship sets the scene for the events in this novel. Even when she believes that she has escaped the evil that is her family she finds herself being stalked unrelentlessly by an unknown enemy. This happens at the same time that she discovers that instead of one fated mate she is ‘blessed’ with two, who happen to be Dylias, werewolves. Not only that but her mates, Jackson and Taylor, have themselves been mated for a long time and are deeply committed to each other. Who is staking Jennifer and how can she escape from her past, which still haunts her? Also will Jackson and Taylor find room for Jennifer and how will they cope with being mated to a Mystic, a race they despise?

There is much violence, danger and suspense in the novel, as Jennifer discovers the identity of her stalker and with the aid of Jackson, Taylor and others seek to destroy him before he destroys someone very dear to her. However, he is not going down without a fight. Jennifer and her mates must seek the help of others to succeed and we are introduced to a number of other characters as the tale plays out. There is also plenty of snarky humour and a number of smoking hot lovemaking scenes, notably between Jackson and Taylor, which I loved.

I enjoyed the character of Jennifer, the heroine. Although strong, she does struggle with the potential for evil that resides within her and also experiences trauma from past events. Krista, the other Mystic we are introduced to his novel, finds it far more difficult to curb her race’s natural instincts and it will be interesting to see how the author takes her story forward. It is Jackson and Taylor who stole the show for me however, as they are just so yummy! I enjoyed their reaction when they found out that Jennifer was their mate and I hope the author will explore the dynamics of how their existing relationship accommodates Jennifer a little more in the next instalment.

I found Dark Indiscretions to be a promising start to a new series. I liked how the author had taken the vampire myth and put her own spin on it and I am looking forward to reading Monsters Unleashed, the forthcoming novel.  I recommend this series to readers of Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

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

Buy Links:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Indiscretions-Shakuita-Johnson-ebook/dp/B00H5DODE4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1386381480&sr=8-1&keywords=dark+indiscretions

Connect with the Author:

Blog: http://www.dark-indiscretions.com

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/b3arcat26/

Facebook Book Series page: http://www.facebook.com/darkindiscretions

Dark Indiscretions, by Shakuita Johnson – Book Blast!!!

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First in a New Paranormal Romance Series 

 Check out the cover (which is pretty A-M-A-Z-I-N-G), the book blurb and the trailer and meet and connect with the author, Shakuita Johnson. Also enter her super GIVEAWAY to win a grand prize of a Samsung Galaxy Tab, signed  paperback copy of Dark Indiscretions, an ebook and more!!!

Dark Indiscretions Book cover

Book Blurb:

What happens when your whole family is scarier than any nightmare and you have no desire to be anything like them? Do you stay and go along with the family plans or do you rebel and have them possibly turn their viciousness on you?

Jennifer Johnston experiences first hand why whispers are spoken in the dark about her species’ being evil when she was just a century old. What should have been another family dinner spent arguing over why she didn’t want to keep the bloodlines “pure” by being married off to her older brother turned into a nightmare and left her with more than tortured memories.

Jackson Dawls and Taylor Durham had been pack mates, best friends, and the other’s mate for as long as they could remember. They were a deadly species all their own but even they feared the Mystics and their overly cruel and barbaric ways, but unforeseen circumstances bring them face to face with not one but a few. Will there lives be in danger or is something great and unexpected awaiting them?rebel and have them possibly turn their viciousness on you?

They also have to stay under the radar of the human society that is set out to destroy those they believe to be “Tarnished” and a danger to mankind.

When the three meet long ago secrets are brought to the light. Secrets no one but Jennifer knew. Not only do they have to learn to get along with each other because they are fated, someone is also stalking Jennifer and preforming sinister acts without her being any the wiser.

Jennifer must seek guidance from old acquaintances and form alliances with those she never thought she would. She is met with riddles and startling revelations that she never would have imagined possible.

Will they accept their fates and work together or will old fears destroy their lives? Will Jennifer be able to reclaim what was taken from her right from under her nose?

Meet the Author Shakuita Johnson:

 Shakuita Johnson

Author Bio:

Shakuita Johnson is a 29-year-old Psychology major. When she isn’t going to school or working, she is doing what she loves most – writing.

She started writing in middle school. She would write poetry in her room or the middle of the night. Then she was introduced to short stories in a creative writing course her senior year.

Her love for paranormal and supernatural started with R.L. Stine Goosebumps books and TV shows, Anne Rice Vampire Chronicles, and Christopher Pike books. She is an avid reader with over 100 books on her bookshelf and 1000 plus on her iPad. She also loved to watch Charmed and Buffy the Vampire Slayer with her mom. Dark Indiscretions is her first novel.

Buy Links:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Indiscretions-Shakuita-Johnson-ebook/dp/B00H5DODE4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1386381480&sr=8-1&keywords=dark+indiscretions

Connect with this Author:

Blog: http://www.dark-indiscretions.com

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/b3arcat26/

Facebook Book Series page: http://www.facebook.com/darkindiscretions

Enter the Super Giveaway!

Win a grand prize of a Samsung Galaxy Tab, signed  paperback copy of Dark Indiscretions, an ebook and more! list Just click on the Rafflecopter link below:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/88b6442/

Check out the Book Trailer: 

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