Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of adailyrhythm.
Anyone can play along! Just do the following: Grab your current read. Open to a random page. Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page. BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!) Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!
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I have read a lot of Anthony Renfro’s work and I love this short story, Joyride.
Vin was always getting Mike in trouble and today he wants to take his uncles 1970 Chevelle for a JOYRIDE.
Maybe he should have paid more attention to the key ring with the devil smiling its evil grin.
They were flying by the seat of their youth and loving every minute of it.
Oh, the sweet taste of youth. Do you remember those times? When we all thought we would live forever?
Anthony Renfro is a horror writer so I know this won’t be any JOYRIDE they could have ever anticipated.
Anthony does a wonderful job of packing so much horror into a little package, I keep wanting more.
After reading this, you may think twice next time you get into your car and turn the key.
I received Joyride by Anthony Renfro in return for an honest and unbiased review.
4 Stars
Anthony Renfro has included another short story, Sandy and the Stranger.
Sandy was undefeated when it came to drag racing, until…
A fun ghostly tale with glimpses into people’s character.
Sometimes the best thing to say is nothing.
4 Stars
GOODREADS BLURB
(Revised and Updated: 2015) A Joyride in a Chevy Chevelle. The car was just sitting there for the taking. What could possibly go wrong? Vinnie and Mike are about to find out what can and will go wrong once they turn the key. Evil awaits. Ride shotgun if you dare with this short story.
I love the light, ethereal and mystical “feel” of it.
But beware, for between the pages lies the supernatural and it can be a very dangerous place.. Add me to Goodreads now.
. MY REVIEW
Rain of Ash by Gwen Mitchell is a paranormal and supernatural tale of a curse, a legacy and Briana Spurrier, the Skydancer that will be called upon to defeat the demon. The story has been told before – good magic vs bad magic, but I lost myself in the fantasy world of demons, legacies, magic, danger and death created by Gwen Mitchell.
Briana had left her home, her passion the piano and her desire to be a concert pianist drove her to deny her heritage. But, the curse and her legacy was not be denied. When a disaster brought her home, she was at a disadvantage. She did not know the danger lurking at every turn.
Regrets, sure, she had plenty. Her powers had been bound, but even before she returned it was pushing through, entering her life and refusing to be denied – candles light on their own, doors close by themselves, precognition, psychic echoes, regressions, astral visits – makes me think of Charmed and Supernatural, a couple of TV shows all paranormal lovers like me know about.
Kean, it was as if his life restarted when she returned. But there was also Eric, who was in her “real” piano world. And Lucas, from a long ago past that she fought to forget. So I guess you could call this a quadrangle, but there is really only one…I think. 🙂
I love Astrid, her best friend. Briana had thought she would hold a grudge because of abrupt departure, but it was almost as if they had never left. If you have ever had a best friend that lives far away, you will know what I mean. Distance and time make no difference, each time you meet it is if no one had every left.
The three friends band together and decide to form their own coven. The accidents are not accidents and they are determined to find the answers. They must plead their case before the council.
The magic world has its own set of rules and punishment. They cannot be allowed to run AMOK.
There were a couple of ceremonies that made me think of scenes on Supernatural – where they slash their palm, squeeze the dripping blood into the cup and drink it. Yuck.
The fading (orbing) made me think of Charmed.
I am liking the new coven, their backbone, confidence, strength and determination.
The Soul Eater comes for Geri and the battle goes into overdrive. I can picture the fight from watching Charmed and Supernatural. The Soul Eater is deformed, a hunched, winged fanged, powerful demon able to raze a house and shred human flesh. It revels in the pain and anguish wreaked by its fangs and claws.
I love all the magic, the tension and pacing drawing me in. As the demons and witches, goblins and werewolves, Oracles and Soul Eater begin the battle for the relic and Brianna, I find myself wondering who will survive. Who will die? How many? Gwen is not afraid to kill off her characters in a brutal, horrific, gruesome way.
Rain of Ash started out okay, but when the Soul Eater came to visit and the action really began, the battle was so wildly, magically, horribly supernatural and fantastically charmed I became hooked on the series and am eager to read Book II.
I received a copy of Rain of Ash by Gwen Mitchell in return for an honest and unbiased review.
4 Stars
ABOUT GWEN MITCHELL
Gwen lives in Seattle with two spider plant clones (Rufus I and Rufus II) and an avocado plant named Alice. She studied biology and philosophy at the University of Washington in search of the meaning of life – she’s still working on that one. She’s a nature lover, science geek, and spiritual explorer, with a love of well-aged tequila and a pin-up fashion obsession.
When not hiking to hidden waterfalls, taking in a burlesque show, or otherwise cavorting through the Emerald City, Gwen can be found in her favorite cozy chair brewing tales of magic, murder, and romance.
Sucking in San Francisco by Jessica McBrayer has a great title and cover combination. This paranormal romance is written with a light and comical touch, with characters that got me involved and kept me there.
I love the fun humorous, witty, snarky writing that makes sucking sound like it’s okay, just a necessity, whether it’s for blood or energy.
Lilith, a vampire, works for a suicide hotline. How funny is that? She is an obsessive compulsive under stress, a germaphobe, lysol and handi-wipes always in reach. She swabs the neck of her victim before she sinks her teeth into him. HA HA HA!
Sebastian, a fellow vamp who has been like a brother to her, all of a sudden has the hots for her. He is a vamp casanova. Can she trust him? Or is this just lust? After 76 years, Lilith is having some of the same feelings. How long can she ignore them? Lilith does acts like a teen, so is she a baby vamp?
Aidan is a djinnn that has formed an attachment to her. He met Lilith when he called into the suicide hotline she worked for. She’s awakened his curiosity, given him a reason, a disire to live. Can a vampire and djinn be, you know together?
Hannah is another vampire friend. She is a hippie and dresses like a Goth hooker. I mention her, because she is a badass, unique individual and I love her. Will she have a book of her own. *crossing fingers and toes*
Someone else wants Sebastian and Lilith is in the way. Even Hannah is attracted to Sebastian. Is it vampire allure or just his hotness?
The mine’s bigger than yours going on between Sebastian and Aidan is comical, sweet and a triangle I didn’t mind…for a while. The testosterone challenge was fun, though it did drag on for a long time and Lilith comes across as somewhat of a bitch and a slut. I love them both and hate that she has to choose. But…I feel I do know who it will be.
I loved all the characters each playing their important and unique part to the story. Helena, Julian and Andrew deserve a mention. I love that Lilith works at a crisis center answering a suicide prevention hotline. At least that keeps her food supply going strong. LOL The writing is wonderful and the mystery is alive. We have heroes and villains, the vindictive, evil kind.
I received Sucking in San Francisco in return for an honest and unbiased review.
I see there are more books in the series and I was able to get the second one as an Amazon freebie, YAY. And it is about Hannah. I had a feeling she deserved a story of her own. I am looking forward to another fun and dangerous romp in San Francisco.
3 Stars
ABOUT JESSICA MCBRAYER
Jessica McBrayer lives in the San Francisco Bay Area. She lives in a house that looks like the prow of a
cruise ship and is surrounded by hills too steep for mountain goats, although every other animal seems to
make it their go to place. Jessica shares her home with her husband, her two children, assorted animals
and her mother who is a writer too. She is a member of
Romance Writers of America.
I am happy to be able to kick off the month of October with this wonderful story about Ellie Jordan, Ghost Trapper by J L Bryan for Kiss Off Book Tours.
Ellie Jordan, Ghost Trapper by J L Bryan is an eerie tale that had me laughing and cringing as Ellie and Stacey investigate a haunted mansion. It made me think of the movie, The Ghostbusters and the TV show, Ghost Hunters. There are plenty of screams and chills that you will not want to miss.
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Ellie had trained her whole life to be a ghost trapper. Now she is a senior investigator for Eckhart Investigations. She has a degree in psychology that comes in handy when assessing the legitimacy of her clients. Ellie felt she didn’t need any help, but her boss, Calvin, coaxed her into it. It was a good thing.
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Stacey is just learning, but I love her snarky attitude.
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All jobs start with research and the mansion has a sordid history.
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Ellie and Stacey set up all their equipment and wait.
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Imagine…sitting there, alone, in the dark, and watching the bolt locking the door slide open on its own, feeling a huge drop in temperature, knowing something is there but unable to see it. Loud voices, banging, screaming…
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l loved the tone of the writing, it had me laughing out loud.
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“Well, let’s go check out the dark basement of the abandoned insane asylum. Nothing could possibly go wrong down there.”
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They have ghost pajama parties and a mock funeral. There was much more going on than they anticipated and it was becoming very dangerous.
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Ellie Jordan, Ghost Trapper, started out in a Scooby Doo sort of way, but turned more Supernatural as the story went on.
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“Let’s split up to save time”
“Isn’t that what they always say in a horror movie? Right before somebody gets killed?”
“Usually, yeah. So hurry.”
The characters had me yelling, don’t go in there, watch out, get out of there. I couldn’t help myself. I even felt sympathy for one of the ghosts. They are not all bad, are they?
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J L Bryan’s writing had me hooked from the beginning. I liked the humor mixed with the danger of very unhappy evil spirits.
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I loved the ending and couldn’t help but smile as I went to check out more of what J L Bryan has to offer. So if your house is haunted, be sure and call Ellie Jordan, Ghost Trapper. She will get the job done!
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I picked up Ellie Jordan, Ghost Trapper, a while ago, so when I saw the tour, I decided this was the perfect time to review it.
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4 Stars
Summary from Goodreads
Ellie Jordan’s job is to catch and remove unwanted ghosts. Part detective, part paranormal exterminator, Ellie operates out of Savannah, Georgia, one of the oldest and most haunted cities in North America.
When a family contacts her to deal with a disturbing presence in the old mansion they’ve recently purchased, Ellie first believes it to be a typical, by-the-book specter, a residual haunting by a restless spirit. Instead, she finds herself confronting an evil older and more powerful than she’d ever expected, rooted in the house’s long and sordid history of luxury, sin, and murder. The dangerous entity seems particularly interested in her clients’ ten-year-old daughter.
Soon her own life is in danger, and Ellie must find a way to exorcise the darkness of the house before it can kill her, her clients, or their frightened young child.
What inspired you to write Ellie Jordan, Ghost Trapper?
I was interested in writing about ghosts because, unlike pretty much any other kind of paranormal critter (vampires, werewolves, etc.) it’s not clear whether ghosts are real or not. I thought it would be fun to write a detective series about a character who deals with them all the time.
Have you ever had a ghost experience before?
One time my wife and I were staying with some friends who lived in an old house in Athens, Georgia. We slept downstairs and were the only people on the floor. We were both awoken at the same time by a deep male voice saying “shoo, shoo” just a few inches above our heads, like someone was leaning over us and talking. Nobody else was in the room. We didn’t tell our friends about it until they’d moved out of that house.
What made you choose to write in the paranormal genre?
I’ve always been interested in the supernatural and sort of looking into mysterious and unexplainable events. I also think that we can learn about ourselves through imagining human beings in extreme circumstances, whether that’s dealing with paranormal monsters or a dystopian future society.
What was your favorite scene to write in Ellie Jordan?
Probably the ghost ones, like early on when she’s first encountering the ghost in the house, or later when they have to visit the abandoned old insane asylum to look for clues.
Which character was your favorite to write?
I really enjoy writing both Ellie and Stacey and how they interact with each other. Their psychic friend Jacob is becoming more and more fun to write with each book.
Do you have a dream cast for any of the characters?
I don’t because I don’t keep up with newer actors very well. This would be a really interesting blog post if someone else wanted to do it, though (hint, hint!).
What is your writing process like?
I have a toddler, so I pretty much just write whenever I can. A lot of times that’s late night! I try to hit specific wordcounts, but it always goes slowest earliest in the first draft and gradually picks up steam. Then I go through a number of drafts before sending it for editing.
What kind of research did you have to do for this book?
I’ve actually done kind of a silly amount of research for this series, and I still do. First, I’ve read or listened to as many true (or supposedly true) ghost stories as I can find. I wanted to learn all about what real ghostly experiences were like, instead of following other fiction. I also researched the real technology and procedures used by ghost hunters and applied those to Ellie’s investigative process. My goal has been to make it is as realistic as possible as far as reflecting “ghost culture” in the real world.
How many books are you planning for the series?
Eight or ten right now.
When you were a kid, what was your favorite ghost story you heard?
There was an old house in an overgrown field near where I grew up. People would say it was haunted. I think that was the scariest one because it was so close and I could have walked inside the place if I wanted to (but I didn’t want to). I don’t even remember a specific story about it, people said different things. I did watch a lot of Scooby-Doo as a kid, too. And I was obsessed with the Nightmare on Elm Street movies, which are about a certain kind of ghost.
When did you write your first book and how old were you?
I was thirteen and wrote a book about a delusional kid who dressed up in a dog costume and tried to fight crime, despite his lack of any superpowers or anything. It was called Dogboy.
What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating Ellie Jordan?
How many real or supposedly real ghost stories are out there. I’ve read several books about ghosts just in the Savannah area alone. There are lots of books and websites that collect people’s ghost stories, and lots of people have personal stories if you start asking around. There are at least a dozen “ghost reality” shows on TV, where haunted buildings are investigated with technology or by psychics, or people recount experiences they claim to have had. The abundance of ghostly experiences by real people has made researching and writing the series much more interesting to me.
Do you have any advice for other writers?
Read widely, not just in your own genre, read lots of books on craft, and write every day. Commercially, you want to write in a popular genre and make sure you have quality book covers that reflect the correct genre.
What is your favorite genre to read or watch?
I like to read historical nonfiction, biographies, things like that. Nonfiction is great fuel for your imagination.
If someone dared you, would you spend the night in the house in the story?
No! Not unless Ellie had cleared the place first.
Is there a genre you’d like to write but haven’t yet?
I actually write some science fiction on the side, but it hasn’t done as well as the supernatural stories so I don’t focus on it.
Why did you choose to have the book take place in Savannah, Georgia?
It was an easy choice for me because I live in Georgia and have visited Savannah several times (and I’m always willing to go back for more research!). Some of my ancestors were present at the founding of that city. So I wanted to write about a city with which I was familiar, and Savannah is a great setting, with lots of old mansions built in every style and centuries-old graveyards, plus the city is built on top of multiple native burial grounds. It’s believed to be one of the most haunted cities in the country among paranormal researchers and among people who live there. Most of the buildings in the Historic District have at least one ghost story attached to them. It seemed like a place where professional ghost hunters would really have their hands full!
About The Author
J.L. Bryan studied English literature at the University of Georgia and at Oxford, with a focus on the English Renaissance and the Romantic period. He also studied screenwriting at UCLA. He enjoys remixing elements of paranormal, supernatural, fantasy, horror and science fiction into new kinds of stories.
He is the author of The Paranormals series of horror novels (Jenny Pox, Tommy Nightmare, and Alexander Death) the Songs of Magic series for younger readers (Fairy Metal Thunder, Fairy Blues, and Fairystruck…so far) and other books. He lives in Atlanta with his wife Christina, their son, and some dogs and cats.
In a land where those with magic are esteemed and revered, Janir guards a secret that would send her to the headsman’s block at a word. As one of the reviled Argetallams, she has the power to destroy enchantments and steal others’ magic—an ability that has caused bloodshed for generations.
Raised as the illegitimate daughter of an influential lord, she was determined to turn her back on her heritage, but when her power manifests, leaving a nobleman dead, she has no choice but to flee her adoptive home. In exile with the help of a fearless young enchanter and an elf sworn to protect her, she finds herself entangled in a quest to hide an ancient artifact from the kingdom’s enemies.
But they are not the only ones after the relic and soon their paths cross with a rival from Janir’s distant childhood. With no hope of help or rescue, the fate of nations will depend on a fifteen year old girl and her mastery of powers she doesn’t understand.
The Key of Amatahn by Elisabeth Wheatley is her debut novel, and part of a trilogy. I have read her Fanged novellas and they blew me away, so I asked her for a copy of The Key of Amatahns. I am excited to embark on another adventure with this amazingly talented young author.
Janir and her mother were sent away from Adasha, but they never made it to their destination. Janir was saved by an elf and Amandius took her in. She is now a member of the Caersynn household, even though she is the daughter of the ruler of Argetallam.
The Argetallam are the Invincible. They feared and detested by all, because of their ruthlessness and powerful magic.
Lucan, Janir’s brother hated her. She is older, therefore would inherit the role of leader. He is mean, jealous, arrogant and self serving. I don’t think he would make a very good ruler. Lucan would do anything to find the Key and the Temple.
An unfortunate incident and she is on the run again, this time into the forest on her own. She meets up with Karile who appears to be a bumbling enchanter.
Saoven, an elf, is sent by Amandius to protect her and the three of them bond together to hunt for The Key To Amatahn.
The Key could lead to the world’s end if it were to fall into the wrong hands.
Once they have the Key, the pace picks up as they are chased through the woods, dodging evil and magic at every turn.
We have elves, wargs, mazag, dragons, enchanters… A cornucopia of magical creatures. And, of course, some mortals.
It took me a while to get into the swing of this fantasy adventure. As I figured out the different characters and the fantasy world Elisabeth Wheatley built. The characters became friends of mine and I cheered them on in their race to find the Key and the Temple it will unlock. I enjoyed the journey and would recommend The Key of Amatahn by Elisabeth Wheatley to all you fantasy lovers out there.
Janir, and Karile’s journey was a long, ugly, torturous one and it will not end here. The Key of Amatahn by Elisabeth Wheatley does not end with a cliffhanger, but leaves the story open for more fantasy adventure.
I received a copy of The Key of Amatahn by Elisbeth Wheatley in return for an honest and unbiased review.
3 Stars
About the Author
Elisabeth Wheatley began what would be her first novel at eleven and hasn’t stopped writing since. When she’s not daydreaming of elves, vampires, and/or hot guys in armor, she can be found wasting time on the internet, fangirling over her latest obsession, and pretending to be a functional citizen.
The Loft by Bette Lee Crosby is another heartrending, yet uplifting novel filled with southern charm. It reads as if it is a true story. I laughed and I cried, as I followed Annie’s story.
The Loft by Bette Lee Crosby is Book II in The Memory House Series. I have read all of Bette’s books and her writing blows me away. Her novels read as if all is possible, if we just open our hearts. The characters are real and will tug at your heartstrings, demanding to be heard.
Ethan Allen has come a long way since I first met him as a child. Now, he has a family of his own and it is growing. Annie and Oliver, Ethan’s son, are getting married.
Ophelia had taught Annie about the memories attached to some objects and her ability to be able to connect with them…which brought her to Ethan and Oliver. Do you believe in miracles? In magic? Do you believe if we just open ourselves up to the endless possibilities, that we can all tap into something bigger than us?
The Keeper of the Scale maintains the balance of sorrow and happiness. I LOVE it. Most of the time he uses small, round river rocks to balance the scale, but sometimes there is such a huge discrepancy, he has to toss a boulder on there.
If you look hard enough in the stars at night, maybe you will see it.
Geez, Bette, I am only 6% into the story and have pulled out the tissues. I blink to see the words through my tears, my throat tightens and I find myself holding my breath.
Bette Lee Crosby’s characters are so real, they can be YOUR husband, YOUR friend…She takes me from a happy place to deep sorrow and back again. The rollercoaster ride drains me, as if I am going through it too.
When you think you know what’s going to happen, Bette Lee Crosby introduces a new character, a new wrinkle. There is so much happiness, I am waiting for the inevitable. Do the scales have to balance? Good with the bad? Happy with sad?
How many times have you sat, worried, when someone is late? How often have you yelled saying, “Why didn’t you call? For all I know you were lying hurt or dead in a ditch on the side of the road?” I sit…waiting…waiting for something to happen, knowing it is coming.
Bette is not afraid to put here characters to the test. The question is…how bad will it be?
Have your ever commented on how small the world is? How things seem to connect in the oddest way?
The Loft by Bette Lee Crosby is filled with intense emotion and a story that put me through all of them. I soared with the eagles, riding high and feeling free. I sank like a rock thrown into the water, going down further and further, unable to reach the surface. On that note, I can only say, “What comes next, Bette?”
I received The Loft by Bette Lee Crosby in return for an honest and unbiased review.
5 Stars
ABOUT BETTE LEE CROSBY
USA Today Bestselling and Award-winning novelist Bette Lee Crosby’s books are “Well-crafted storytelling populated by memorable characters caught up in equally memorable circumstances.” – Midwest Book Review
The Seattle Post Intelligencer says Crosby’s writing is, “A quirky mix of Southern flair, serious thoughts about important things in life and madcap adventures.”
Samantha from Reader’s Favorite raves, “Crosby writes the type of book you can’t stop thinking about long after you put it down.”
“Storytelling is in my blood,” Crosby laughingly admits, “My mom was not a writer, but she was a captivating storyteller, so I find myself using bits and pieces of her voice in most everything I write.”
It is the wit and wisdom of that Southern Mama Crosby brings to her works of fiction; the result is a delightful blend of humor, mystery and romance along with a cast of quirky charters who will steal your heart away. Her work was first recognized in 2006 when she received The National League of American Pen Women Award for a then unpublished manuscript. She has since gone on to win twenty awards for her work; these include: The Royal Palm Literary Award, the FPA President’s Book Award Gold Medal, Reader’s Favorite Award Gold Medal, and the Reviewer’s Choice Award.
Crosby’s published works to date are: Blueberry Hill (2014), Previously Loved Treasures (2014), Jubilee’s Journey (2013), What Matters Most (2013), The Twelfth Child (2012), Life in the Land of IS (2012), Cracks in the Sidewalk (2011), Spare Change (2011). A Cupid inspired romance, Wishing for Wonderful, is scheduled for release in November 2014 and Book Three of The Wyattsville Series, Passing through Perfect, will be be available in January 2015.
Elisabeth Wheatley’s Fanged Princess series are vampire fantasy novellas that had me racing through the pages as I was drawn into Haddassah’s journey of love, sacrifice, revenge and suspense.
I could not quit reading until the last page.
I was left hanging off the cliff by my fingertips. I have a feeling all will be well (^_^), but I have to know.
Hadassah’s father, the Vampire King, punished her harshly for her choice to love a human. Now her brother, the only person in the world who still matters to her, has fallen for a human girl. Determined to keep the girl safe, the three of them flee from their home in New England and find themselves cornered with their father’s minions closing in. If they want to escape, their only hope may be to join forces with the mortal enemies of their kind…
Be ensnared in this dark tale of enduring love, revenge, and suspense from teenage author, Elisabeth Wheatley.
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MY REVIEW
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I thought I had already reviewed this, but with her new release, Fanged Outcast, I realized I hadn’t. I am rectifying that situation right now. You are in for a treat today. I will be reviewing both books, Fanged Princess and Fanged Outcast.
OMG. I was completely engrossed in this fantastic fantasy tale of love, sacrifice, revenge and suspense! The trio are on the run from her father and she will do whatever needs to be done to let them have a life together, the life she was deprived of. But they can’t do it alone. Who would help them? The cast of characters comes alive on the pages and Elisabeth creates some surprising alliances as they struggle to survive. At one point I am leaning forward in my chair as I breathlessly read the words flowing off the page. I think short stories must be some the hardest stories to tell. How do you pack so much into such a small package and keep the reader at your mercy. Elisabeth did that splendidly and I can’t wait to read more of Haddie’s story in the Fanged Outcast.
Haddie knew her father would not let the relationship continue. After all, he had ended the relationship she had with the human, Fletcher. She is an enforcer, A Kaiju, a vampire. She had never killed anyone to feed and because of her own experience never would.
Damian, her brother is in love with a human, Madelyn. His father will never allow this, so they are on the run.
Madelyn is the human girl Damian is in love with. Yeah, this might have been shades of Twilight, but it is so much more than that. My feelings about Madelyn grow and change as the story unfolds and her love and loyalty shine through.
Chase – Hmmm. What can I say, except I can hardly wait to get to know him better.
The three humans survey me with apprehension. A fanged princess in their midst.
I received Fanged Princess from the author in return for an honest review.
How much would you sacrifice for a love that wasn’t yours?
Hadassah managed to befriend her kind’s worst enemies and save her brother and the human girl he loves from the Vampiric King—once. After a month spent in quiet hiding under the protection of the Huntsmen, a surprise attack from a band of Kaiju shatters their brief reprieve. Faced with new challenges and new threats, Hadassah and the others must once more fight for her brother and the girl who stole his heart. And this time, the Vampiric King isn’t the only one they need fear…
Action, suspense, humor, and romance collide in this anticipated sequel from teen author, Elisabeth Wheatley.
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My Review of Fanged Outcast by Elisabeth Wheatley
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The Fanged series starts out as a fantasy romance then turns into so much more, with political intrigue and the machinations of other races, with their own agendas, vying for their alliance. Fanged Outcast, a vampire novella, picks up where Fanged Princess leaves off and I am so happy I didn’t have to wait for the story to continue. Damian and Madelyn are all Haddie has left and she will sacrifice everything for them. She struggles to come to terms with the acts necessary for them to be able to live without looking over their shoulders every day for the rest of their life. Chase and his family will have to face the Council and explain why they are working with vampires, putting themselves at risk to help the trio. Do they have an ulterior motive for doing so? It’s a wonderful journey through Elisabeth’s fantasy world as the races adjust and adapt, changing from adversaries to allies, all with their own agendas. The sharp barbs slung from Haddie to Chase and hints of humor splashed throughout this novella has me chuckling and I am loving Haddie’s feistiness and determination to protect Damian and Madelyn. I love Bear. Who doesn’t love the faithful hound? A nice touch of the normal added to the otherwordly.
I am so impressed with the great writing of such a young author. It is obvious her passion for writing and her imagination will be taking me on many more journeys through her fantasy worlds with her marvelous characters and stories.
Drat. I knew this was coming. I ran out of pages. Book III is due out later this year. Please write faster Elisabeth!
This is the curse of the Outcast – always on guard, never knowing who might come after you next.
SUVs are not to be tackled.
I received this ebook from Elisabeth Wheatley in return for an honest review.
5 Stars – Would Highly Recommend To Others
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Elisabeth Wheatley is a teen author of the Texas Hill Country. When she’s not daydreaming of elves, vampires, or hot guys in armor, she is wasting time on the internet, fangirling over indie books, and training her Jack Russell Terrier, Schnay.
Stalk Elisabeth Wheatley. She doesn’t bite, or does she?
In celebration of The Key of Amatahns, going on a $0.99 sale for the first time ever, I will be sharing a post with my review, a giveaway and a visit from the author herself, Elisabeth Wheatley for The Key of Amatahns on September 30, 2015. The Key of Amatahns will be on sale for 99 cents from September 28th (Monday) and run through October 2nd (Friday), so stop by and get a copy for yourself from this amazing fantasy author.
Click on the Amazon affiliate link below to get your copy of an AWESOME Elisabeth Wheatley story.
Dark Ice by Dave Stanton took me to a slippery slope and I zigzagged my way to the end.
Genre: Crime, Murder Mystery, PI
Published by: LaSalle Davis Books
Publication Date: April 11, 2015
Number of Pages: 304
Series: Dan Reno Novel #4
ISBN: 098960313X (13: 978-0989603133)
Purchase Links:
MY REVIEW
Dark Ice by Dave Stanton has such a pretty cover and sounded a bit different, so I wanted to check it out.
I wondered if the author was an extreme skier, because he was able to vividly describe the terrain with all my senses involved. I saw the sparkling white snow, I smelt the crispness of the air, I tasted the snow on my tongue, I heard the soft hiss of my skis gliding through the snow, I felt the burn in my legs…
The body belonged to the daughter of General Raymond Horvachek and he had no faith in Captain Galanis’s ability or willingness to solve the murder. I would have no faith in him either. He was slimy, slutty and way to into himself.
The General wanted to hire Dan to solve it. Dan’s nickname, The Snake, made me think of Kenny Stabler from the Oakland Raiders football team. You can tell what time of year it is as I write this review. Football season coming up and I can hardly wait. Dan had that ball buster kind of attitude and was a party animal, until he met Candi.
His friend, Cody, on the other hand is still going strong and still quite the party animal. By the way, where is Cody? He just left, and with all the threats against Dan and his girlfriend, I would think Cody would be right behind them…but when the shit hit the fan, heeeeee’s back. I thought the book was too well written for Dave Stanton to forget about him, but I was surprised by how long it took for him to make another appearance. He is a great character and adds a bit more spice to the story.
The killer was no one I suspected, but there is a reason for that. I cannot tell you why, but it didn’t work for me.
I was curious and would not quit reading until I had the answers, but the road to get there seemed confusing and disjointed at times. I see why he kept two courses of action going, it did keep the suspense level up there, but It didn’t work very well for me. It kind of seemed like it was action for action’s sake. Or maybe it was just my mood. I finished the book in one sitting and it did keep me involved, so I would recommend you give this a try if you are in the mood for a “chilling” mystery on a cold winters night.
I received a copy of Dark Ice by Dave Stanton in return for an honest and unbiased review.
3 Stars
SYNOPSIS
Two murdered girls, and no motive…
While skiing deep in Lake Tahoe’s backcountry, Private Eye Dan Reno finds the first naked body, buried under fresh snow. Reno’s contacted by the grieving father, who wants to know who murdered his daughter, and why? And how could the body end up in such a remote, mountainous location? The questions become murkier when a second body is found. Is there a serial killer stalking promiscuous young women in South Lake Tahoe? Or are the murders linked to a different criminal agenda?
Searching for answers, Reno is accosted by a gang of racist bikers with a score to settle. He also must deal with his pal, Cody Gibbons, who the police consider a suspect. The clues lead to the owner of a strip club and a womanizing police captain, but is either the killer?
The bikers up the ante, but are unaware that Cody Gibbons has Reno’s back at any cost. Meanwhile, the police won’t tolerate Reno’s continued involvement in the case. But Reno knows he’s getting close. And the most critical clue comes from the last person he’d suspect…
EXCERPT
1
The cornice stretched three feet over the sheer face below. There was about fifteen feet of vertical drop before the snow covered slope angled out at forty-five degrees. I inched my skis farther forward, the tips hanging over the void. I was wrong—it was more like twenty feet of mandatory air. And that was the shallowest entry the ledge offered.
I blew out my breath and ignored the sickly sensation of my testicles trying to climb into my stomach. Turning back now would mean a long uphill hike, while the reward for leaping off the cornice was five hundred feet of untracked powder. A slight dip to the left marked the most forgiving launch point. I pushed myself back and sidestepped higher up the ridge. A couple deep breaths, then I released my edges and glided toward the dip.
In a second I launched over the precipice, my hands thrust forward, my knees tucked toward my chest. As I dropped, I could see the distant desert floor of Nevada fall behind the stands of pine and fir at the bottom of the bowl. I extended my legs in the instant before I touched down and absorbed the shock, blinded for a second by a blast of snow. Then I cranked my skis on edge, bounced out of the fluff, and made a second turn through the deep powder. It had snowed about a foot last night, but here the fresh coverage was at least two feet, maybe more. Bottomless under my boots.
Twenty turns to the glade below, my heart pounding, my body disappearing in blasts of powder, the white coating me from head to toe. When I reached the tree line, I skidded to a stop and caught my breath. Then I looked up and admired the S-turns I’d left on the otherwise unblemished slope. Not bad, I thought, smiling at the understatement. Most of the winter storms that blow through the Lake Tahoe region come out of the warm Pacific and dump wet, heavy snow, creating the notorious Sierra cement. But last night’s blizzard swept in from Alaska, bringing colder and lighter snow. As a result, I was in the right place at the right time.
I skated along the terminus of the bowl and turned into the trees when they became sparse enough to allow passage. This was the Nevada backcountry, unpatrolled, accessible by ducking the boundary ropes at the highest elevation of South Lake Tahoe’s ski resort, right at the California-Nevada border. Before me lay 4000 feet of descent to the high desert floor where I’d parked my truck, near Route 207 outside of Gardnerville.
It was slower going now, the terrain interrupted by tangles of deadfall and icy patches where the wind had scoured the surface. I picked my way through it, my skis alternately sinking in powder then chattering and scraping across slick bands of ice. Finally I spotted a clearing—a wide, sweeping snow bank that fell toward a collection of pines hundreds of feet below. I rode the section like a surfer on a wave, turning down off the lip then riding back up, staying high and avoiding a flat area that would likely necessitate a hike.
When I reached the trees below, I entered a broad glade, the trunks spaced at wide intervals, the snow as soft and uniform as a white pillow. The morning sun had just appeared from behind a swath of swift moving clouds, and the snow glittered with pinpricks of light. I took a long moment to take in the scenery, then I picked a line and pushed off into the mild grade. The pristine snow held no surprises, the powder light and consistent, making it easy to find a rhythm. Floating through the trees and leaving a wake of rounded tracks, I become immersed in the splendor of the moment, as if the setting had been created solely for my indulgence.
My grandiose thoughts came to a crashing halt when I came around a tree and my skis rammed into something solid beneath the snow. My binding released with a loud click, and I flew forward and face-planted in a poof of powder.
“Son of a bitch,” I said, wiping the snow from my goggles. I took a quick inventory of my body and found no injuries. Then I crawled back ten feet to where my ski lay. When I pulled it from the snow, the edge caught, probably on a hidden stump, I thought. Then the powder fell aside, and I saw a flesh-colored streak. I froze for a second, certain my eyes were playing tricks on me. Blinking, I used the ski to push away more snow.
“No way,” I whispered, my heart in my throat. A bare shoulder revealed itself, then a snarl of blond hair strung with ice. I reached down with my gloved hand and carefully pushed aside the hair. The face was half-buried, one eye visible, lashes thick with mascara, a blue iris staring blankly. Using both hands like a shovel, I pushed away the bulk of the snow covering the upper body. A sour lump formed in my gut. The body was naked, the skin that of a young woman, perhaps a teenager.
ABOUT DAVE STANTON
Dave Stanton is the author of five novels in the Dan Reno private eye series. They do not have to be read chronologically to be enjoyed, but for those who want to know, the order is: Stateline, Dying for the Highlife, Speed Metal Blues, Dark Ice, & Hard Prejudice.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1960, Dave Stanton moved to Northern California in 1961. He received a BA in journalism from San Jose State University in 1983. Over the years, he worked as a bartender, newspaper advertising salesman, furniture mover, debt collector, and technology salesman. He has two children, Austin and Haley, and lives with his wife, Heidi, in San Jose, California.
Stanton’s five novels all feature private investigator Dan Reno and his ex-cop buddy, Cody Gibbons.
Catch Up:
GIVEAWAY
This is a giveaway hosted by Partners In Crime Virtual Book Tours for Dave Stanton. There will be one US winner of 1 $20 Amazon Gift Card. The giveaway begins on September 1st, 2015 and runs through September 31st, 2015. For US residents only.
Stop by the Tour Participants sites to get chances to win copies of Dark Ice & more!
We Tag Team an author and publish our posts at the same time.
Whether it’s for a cover reveal, giveaway, review, interview, or something more, the author will be tagged by us and you will be alerted to go to Laura’s blog or mine to see additional content. It’s really fun to see how differently we view the same book and you get an extra chance to win with our giveaways!
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FOR NICK by taylor dean
I am thrilled to have Taylor Dean on my blog today. For my peeps, you will find a familiar name. Welcome Taylor and take it away. Oh, be sure and read to the end to enter the fantastic giveaway from Taylor.
From the Author
I admit, when I wrote FOR NICK, I wanted to write a tear-jerker.
Why do women sometimes love books or movies that make them cry?
Good question.
Some ladies tell me they hate anything that turns on the waterworks. They say they feel utterly depressed when the book or movie is over.
It makes me feel like I’ve experienced the meaning behind life, as if I’ve found the truth behind this crazy journey.
There’s something about observing the human experience without actually having to live through it. Perhaps it’s just learning what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes.
I feel somehow refreshed and my life seems so much better than before. I realize my problems and trials are not that bad after all.
Having a good soul-cleansing cry lifts my spirits and makes me feel in touch with my emotions.
My daughters and I will bawl like babies while watching a touching movie and then pronounce how good it was, leaving the men in our lives baffled and rolling their eyes.
That being said, I love a happy ending so I can smile and laugh after all those tears.
An HEA is a MUST HAVE in all of my books. FOR NICK is no exception.
I don’t consider myself to be much of a comedian, but the ending of For Nick always gives me a good giggle.
For Nick will leave you, at first, liking the hero, then falling in love with him, having sympathy for him, becoming irritated with him, feeling all out mad at him, then falling in love with him again–and laughing at his very human frailties.
Taylor Dean can spin a tale that will tug at your heartstrings and For Nick is no exception. I used to think that contemporary and inspirational fiction was not my cup of tea, but authors like Taylor have won me over. The fabulous writing and realistic characters have the ability to touch my heart and leave me wanting more.
I knew right away something was wrong and what would happen but not why. Taylor’s writing grabs my attention and doesn’t let go. She will lure you in, starting out all lovey dovey and sweet, then BAM!
Zachary’s grandfather had given him a choice. He had one year to find someone and marry, or he would lose his inheritance.
He chose Andie, because she said no in a firm and funny way that intrigued him. I couldn’t help but smile at her response to him.
The deal, one year of marriage, one episode of consummation, one million dollars.
The dance of love, when all is bright fun and breathtaking. The banter between him and Andie is fun. They act like kids in love, sometimes goofy and playful.
Why are we so closed that lack of communication can ruin something so good? I get frustrated with no communication. The “funny” thing is, it complicates real life too. Taylor has a way to make her characters come to life, draw you in, and never let you go.
The saying curiosity killed the cat is so appropriate, but I will leave it to you to find out why for yourself.
The restaurant scene not only broke my heart, it pissed me off. Tissues required.
I was already on verge of tears, but when Andie said “I’m scared,” my tears flowed and my throat tightened. I couldn’t see the words through my tears streaming down my face. I tried to read through them so I could find a happy place to take a breath. Painful and sweet, laughter with the tears, isn’t that life?
The story is predictable, but the journey is an adventure I was delighted to be on.
For Nick smacks of the Pretty Woman movie, with Julia Roberts, fairy tales and miracles.
Taylor has a way with endings. You think you know it, but she puts in a special twist that clutches at your heart, yet fills it with joy. She adds that little twist that will make you smile and crave more. I want to tell you so much more…but I am done.
This is a story you want to learn on your own, no spoilers from me.
I received a copy of For Nick by Taylor Dean in return for an honest and unbiased review.
5 Stars
SYNOPSIS
What would you do for love?
Zachary Drake had love in his life—and tragically lost it. He knows it won’t come his way again. Andie Parker would do anything for the love of her life.
Even marry a total stranger.
In spite of the unorthodox manner in which Zach and Andie come together, there is no denying that things are unexpectedly good between them, taking them both by surprise.
However, when secrets come between them—and trust does not—Andie soon finds herself vowing to never make the same mistake again. But, she’d do it again in a heartbeat and she knows it. She’d marry a hundred strangers if it helped Nick. She’d do anything for Nick . . . anything.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Taylor Dean lives in Texas and is the mother of four grown children. Upon finding herself with an empty nest, she began to write the stories that were always wandering around in her head, quickly finding she had a passion for writing, specifically romance. Whether it’s paranormal, contemporary, or suspense—you’ll find all sub-genres of clean romance in her line-up.
To find out what Taylor Dean is up to, follow the links below:
Up for grabs: The first winner will receive a signed paperback, bookmark, and tote-bag. (US only) AND the second two winners will receive a Kindle ebook. (INT. Sorry, kindle only.) To enter, leave Taylor Dean some love below and leave your email so you can be notified. Giveaway ends October 7, 2015.
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What makes you cry?
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WINNERS: My winners: First prize: Linda Nadwodny Moore
2 ebooks: Lynda Dickson and Rita Wray
Laura’s winner: First Prize – Anne
Two ebooks – babyblue and betty w.
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For another chance to win, soar on the wings of love over tofuonlyknew.
The simple cover of Novus, The Cresecren Chronicles, by Crystal Marcos hides the action inside.
If you like apocalyptic/dystopian adventure with characters that will win your heart, then Novus is for you. This is a series, so we will follow Cayden and his mismatched band of “family” as they struggle to survive and create a new world.
Novus by Crystal Marcos is the first book in The Cresecren Chronicles, an action/adventure, dystopian/apocalyptic romance of an inhuman sort. This is a series and after finishing the first book, I can hardly wait for the next.
I was drawn to Cayden’s story from the opening chapter. He is a Cresecren, created to be used in whatever manner his human’s see fit, a slave. When Cayden has served his usefulness, he is sent to Gavaron, with other Cresecren considered rejects and rebels.
He immediately hooked up with Alecander, even though they do not have friends, sex or mates…like humans.They are infertile. Is that considered a curse or a blessing? So what did he feel for Linnaya?
When we do get to Novus, a charming town – “A place to start over, a place to begin, a clean state…” – Just when I thought they were safe, this mismatched band of friends will be put to the test.
I became complacent, lulled into a sense of comfort by Crystal Marcos’s writing. Things are not what they appear to be and there is imminent danger of a different kind.
I felt happy in those moments when the characters could celebrate and enjoy life, and deep sorrow when tragedy struck.
The descriptive writing led me to visualize the action and the world that surrounds the characters. Example: Every once in a while her copper sandals would peek out as if to say hello. How great is that?
Novus made me think of our Civil War, but with a twist. The “people” just want to be free, human and Cresecren alike. The characters have become a family, of sorts, and I am totally invested in their survival. I marveled at their willingness to put their life on the line for each other as they began to realize their feelings and the ability to care. The Cresecren are not just robots, with no feelings and desires of their own. They had more in common with humans than anyone thought…or is that what put them in so much danger, hunted down like criminals or terrorists.
I love Novus and I look forward to more Cresecren adventures with Cayden, Linnaya and the family, as they struggle to make a free life and stay alive.
I received a copy of Novus by Crystal Marcos in return for an honest and unbiased review.
4 Stars
GOODREADS BLURB
Ideal for Hunger Games and Divergent fans, Crystal Marcos delivers Novus, a riveting novel set in a dystopian future of action-adventure, suspense, and romance. Intriguing characters and a gripping storyline keep the reader turning page after page.
Being a teenager is hard enough. And what if your life’s path is predetermined? On top of that, you aren’t even Human?
Cayden was given life as a Cresecren. He expected to live out his days with the dysfunctional Human family he was assigned to serve. One fateful night, however, landed him in Gavaron, the home of maimed, elderly, or defiant Cresecren.
Beyond its borders is the Den, an area much more dangerous than he ever imagined. Now seventeen, Cayden unwittingly becomes involved in a conspiracy and is one of a handful of survivors fleeing a deadly attack. They set off on a perilous journey in search of refuge and the truth. Along the way, Cayden begins to comprehend the difference between fully living and merely surviving, while trying to balance his emotions and a forbidden love.
5 Stars -I would recommend not starting Novus (The Cresecren Chronicles, Book 1) by Crystal Marcos if you have anything planned for the rest of the day, as you will most likely not want to put the book down! . . . It’s the kind of book whose characters you miss when you finish the book. -Readers’ Favorite
ABOUT CRYSTAL MARCOS
Award-winning author Crystal Marcos has been a storyteller her entire life. As the oldest of five children, she had to do a lot of entertaining. She lives on the Kitsap Peninsula in Washington State with her husband and daughter Kaylee, with another child on the way. Crystal is the author of BELLYACHE: A Delicious Tale and HEADACHE: The Hair-Raising Sequel to BELLYACHE. Novus, her third book and first Young Adult novel, is Book One of The Cresecren Chronicles.
Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of adailyrhythm.
4 Stars
Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.
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Jessica McBrayer lives in the San Francisco Bay Area. She lives in a house that looks like the prow of a
USA Today Bestselling and Award-winning novelist Bette Lee Crosby’s books are “Well-crafted storytelling populated by memorable characters caught up in equally memorable circumstances.” – Midwest Book Review
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dave Stanton is the author of five novels in the Dan Reno private eye series. They do not have to be read chronologically to be enjoyed, but for those who want to know, the order is: Stateline, Dying for the Highlife, Speed Metal Blues, Dark Ice, & Hard Prejudice.
