The Spotlight Is On A Vampire’s Honor by Carla Susan Smith #CarlaSusanSmith @pumpupyourbook

 

Inside the Book:

Title: A Vampire’s Honor
Author: Carla Susan Smith
Release Date: September 27, 2016
Publisher: Lyrical Press
Genre: Fantasy
Format: Ebook/Paperback

Sins Of The Past …

Rowan Harper thought being with a vampire would keep her out of harm’s way. But true evil lurks in the darkness, and not even her lover, Gabriel, knows all of its tricks.

Rowan may be his Promise, the one woman who can save Gabriel’s soul, but the two of them have a long and complicated history that Rowan is only now discovering–complete with old enemies who will stop at nothing to make them suffer.

When Rowan is abducted and forced to witness unspeakable violence, secrets of the past begin to unfold. Secrets that show Gabriel’s best friend Aleksei in a new light.

Will the truth destroy all three of them or bind them more tightly together, and if evil prevails, will it be Rowans’s soul that ultimately needs saving?

 

Meet the Author:

Born and raised in England, I now call South Carolina home where I  live with my wonderfully supportive husband, awesome son, and the most discerning canine critique group ever – if tails aren’t wagging then the story isn’t working!

I owe my love of literature to my mother, who, after catching me  reading by flashlight beneath the bed covers, calmly replaced the romance book I’d ‘borrowed’ with one that was far less risqué, and much more appropriate for a pre-teen! She encouraged me to include a wide variety of genres in my reading tastes, but romance, and  paranormal romance in particular, has remained my first love.

I never really thought about writing a romance novel until I read one that was so bad I can only assume it got published by mistake! Making such a comment to my BFF, Sharon, she challenged me to do better. The result was a 250-thousand word epic that I affectionately refer to as my ‘bodice-ripper’ romance – and yes, I still have it!

When I’m not writing I can be found in my kitchen. I love baking, and my husband will actually admit his love of Christmas fruitcake. (Personally I think all that brandy in the fruit has something to do with it!) If not baking then I’m working on my latest tapestry project or  playing catch-up with my reading list where I always seem to be at least three books behind!

It’s a crazy-good life, and I wouldn’t change it for anything, although I wouldn‘t object if I came up with the winning lottery numbers!

Visit her at http://www.carlasmithauthor.com/index.html

———————

Tour Schedule

 Tuesday, September 27 – Book featured at Books,Dreams, Life
Wednesday, September 28 – Book featured at Bound 2 Escape
Thursday, September 29 – Book featured at Celticlady’s Reviews
Friday, September 30 -Book featured at 3 Partners in Shopping
________
Monday, October 3 – Book featured at The Book Tree
Tuesday, October 4 – Book featured at I’m Shelf-ish
Wednesday, October 5 – Book featured at The Literary Nook
Thursday, October 6 – Book featured at Mello and June
Friday, October 7 – Book featured at The Review From Here
________
Monday, October 10 – Book featured at A Title Wave
Tuesday, October 11 – Book featured at Harmonious Publicity
Wednesday, October 12 – Book featured at The Dark Phantom
Thursday, October 13 – Book featured at Write and Take Flight
Friday, October 14 – Book featured at Authors and Readers Book Corner
________
Monday, October 17 – Book featured at Confessions of an Eccentric Bookaholic
Tuesday, October 18 -Interviewed at Deal Sharing Aunt
Wednesday, October 19 – Book featured at Fundinmental
Book reviewed at I Smell Sheep
Thursday, October 20 -Book featured at The Bookworm Lodge
Friday, October 21 – Book featured at Paranormal and Romantic Suspense Reviews
________
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Giveaway & Review – Storm of Aaranon by R E Sheahan @RESheahan @RESheahan

 

We’re happy to have with us today R. E. Sheahan, author of STORM OF ARRANON!  R.E. is on a virtual book tour this month and is giving away paperback copies of Book Two: Storm of Arranon: Fire and Ice and Book Three: Storm of Arranon: Allies and Enemies.  Enter below!

 

 

Author: R. E. Sheahan
Publisher: Rule of Three Press
Pages: 300
Genre: YA Science Fiction/Fantasy
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MY REVIEW
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I have seen Storm of Aaranon by R E Shehan around for some time now and was curious, so when this tour came up I decided now is the time. My sister, Laura @ fuonlyknew had all the books, so the one I didn’t have, I borrowed from her.
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I love covers and this is an interesting one. There is a lot going on and I wonder who is good and who is bad.
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I didn’t anticipate the story inside. Intense…from the opening sentence. So you better buckle up because this may be a bumpy ride.
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Erynn is special, but she doesn’t know it. There is a lot she doesn’t know, as her enemies come after her. She had been secretive and isolated, alone because of her differences. She’d always done her best to control and conceal her powers, feeling there was something wrong with her. That she was a freak. Sounds like a real person, doesn’t it? She thought she was the only one…
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Until Jaer. There is something about about him, something she’s drawn to. As things become clearer to her, she finds her purpose and place. R E Sheahan brings her from innocence and naivety to determination and bravery.
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When she was taken, she didn’t know, but her life would be changed forever. I am curious to see how she adjusts and adapts to the changes in her life and and she learns of her true heritage. R E Sheahan handles it in a fantastic way making me believe, forgetting that Storm of Aaranon is a fantasy.
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Betrayal…I like trying to figure out who is the good guy and who is the bad guy. Just like the characters, I have to be observant and sift through the clues. It’s like playing chess, you have to think way ahead, planning your moves.
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Most books I read, the characters dance around their feelings for each other. We do it to protect ourselves from hurt and embarrassment.  I understand the reason for it, but don’t do it too long. In the face of danger, I would think they’d fess up.
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I love the magic, the creatures and her connection to the world of Aaranon. A combination of elements gives this read a freshness and conveys the innocence and goodness of Erynn. She grows and develops into a confident and independent woman, believing in herself and the ability to GET IT DONE or die trying.
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There was one part with Faylen that I would have loved to have seen developed more. I grew to care for him and his ability to change his mind when the facts were in. I couldn’t quit thinking about him.
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Storm of Aaranon by R E Sheahan is a mashup of science fiction and the paranormal with nature having its share of input in a big way. The story could have ended here, except for…
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I debated about the rating, because I like a lot of depth, detail, blood and guts, but this is a perfect read for the target audience, teens and young adults. So, with that in mind…4 stars.
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I received a copy of Storm of Aaranon from R E Sheahan in return for an honest review.
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Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos 4 Stars
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ABOUT THE BOOK

 A forbidden birth. A remarkable young woman. A marauding alien society. The battle begins.

 A brutal alien society invades Korin and Arranon, intent on destroying the two worlds that make up Cadet Erynn Yager’s home. Forced to expose her strange abilities and reveal her forbidden birth, a guarded web of secrets unravels.

Stranded on an unfamiliar planet of eternal winter and predatory wildlife, the mysterious living consciousness of Arranon intervenes, leading Erynn on a mystical journey.

Aware of Erynn’s potential, the alien enemy pursues her. She struggles to gain control of her growing powers while in a constant race to elude the invaders, and join the forces preparing to fight a mounting occupation.

Erynn’s secret may be her worlds’ only hope, but at the cost of her life. Swept up in a chain reaction of events, Erynn’s dedication extends far beyond service and duty. She learns the true meaning of sacrifice.

Along with courage and hope, Erynn finds something unexpected on her journey of awareness and growth.

Love.

~~~

Fire and Ice (Storm of Arranon, #2)Storm of Aaranon, Book II, Fire and Ice by R E Sheahan

MY REVIEW

The story could have ended with Book I, except for Dhoran, the evil leader of Aaranon’s Underworld.

I read this three book series, one after the other. Once I began, I had to know…

As evil plumbs the depths, I am looking for some serious…stuff to happen. Dhoran’s goal was to seduce Erynn to the dark side. He definitely underestimated her.

Her powers and the danger mounts, so does the suspense and my anticipation of what comes next.

Erynn doesn’t seek trouble, but she does what she feels she has to, no apologies, recruiting followers along the way.

The story gets better, the dangers grow, love blooms and the adventure continues…above ground and below.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos 4 Stars
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Allies and Enemies (Storm of Arranon #3)Storm of Aaranon, Book III, Allies and Enemies by R E Sheahan

MY REVIEW

I read all three books straight through and it keeps getting better and better. I am excited to see that the finale ROCKED!

The first sentence told me the gloves were off and we were coming out fighting. That’s how good the writing is…I felt part of the story.

Who can she trust? Will her enemy be her friend?

“I’m figuring this out as I go.”

Isn’t that real life?

“Flying fast and low, just the way I like it.” Her motto.

Danger surrounds them all and I cannot figure out who to trust.

I felt deeply involved in the outcome, BUT…it doesn’t end here. I didn’t know there was more coming and I am deeply disappointed that I don’t have the next book. I am VERY eager to find out what happens next.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos 4 Stars

For More Information

  • Storm of Arranon is available at Amazon.
  • Discuss this book at PUYB Virtual Book Club at Goodreads.

Book Excerpt:

 TENDRILS OF BLUE STATIC POPPED and snapped around Lieutenant Erynn Yager’s fingers as she tapped the keypad. Black numbers and symbols streamed across the white screen of her monitor. She glanced up, checking the equation on the large overhead at the front of the cramped classroom and smiled, her answer correct.

Delicate blue currents reached out and wrapped around her hands with a faint tingling sensation. In a breath Erynn whispered, “Com avlash.” She brushed at dappled shadows that danced across the pool of sunlight at the edge of her desk, amused by the wispy blue filaments tracing her movements. They flowed like a lazy stream, trailing the path her fingertips traveled before the energy faded. As the static disappeared, she glanced around to make sure no one noticed.

No one ever had.

The buzz of winged centinents drifted in on a warm breeze through the open window next to her. She sighed and fingered the neck of her white uniform shirt, the stiff collar tight and irritating in the rising temperature.

From the front of the classroom the instructor, Major Kendal, his tan uniform meticulous, asked, “Does anyone need more time?” He scanned faces in the room. No one responded and he continued, “I trust you took into account gravitational pull, divided by trajectory angles, while factoring in speed given mass and friction before multiplying . . ..”

Erynn tried to listen, but his incessant droning soon matched the hum from outside.

Static crackled, and the air thickened with a sinking heaviness. The temperature plunged to an icy cold, chilling her moist skin. A sweet, spicy aroma replaced the electronic scent of computers and sour sweat of bodies pressed into a tight space for too long. She glanced out the window and frowned. What—

Broad yellow, orange, and red leaves trembled in the breeze. Brown stone buildings melded with the blue sky and manicured green lawns. The colors ran, blurred, and morphed into dark oily shapes with faint outlines of long arms and legs. She stiffened and squeezed her eyes shut. Images played in her mind like a silent vid in fast-forward.

Flash—a brilliant jeweled city nestled in a deep green forest. Flash—majestic spires of trees surrounding a clearing, the woods tossed in a violent windstorm. Flash—mountain peaks covered by snow and ice.

More impressions swirled and sped by, eclipsing her thoughts, taking control.

Bright pinpoints of red and orange exploded, swarming under her closed lids. The high-pitched sound of a hundred musical instruments in discord screamed in her mind. The syrupy aroma intensified. She caught two words through the cacophony—a plea, and a warning.

“Cadjoo. Mabrath.”

Her chest constricted, unable to expand.

Help. Death.

The meaning of these two words, in a language she’d made up as a child, took her breath. She pushed recognition away, refusing the insistent vision that pried at the corners of her mind seeking purchase.

Prophecy.

The word slithered across her nerves like a dry whisper.

Heart thudding, her lids flew open. At the periphery of her vision, the sparkling colors blinked out, and the heavy atmosphere in the room lifted. Erynn’s ears popped and the shrieking voices died, sudden quiet making her believe the shrill proclamation left her deaf. She jumped up, chair legs screeching backward on polished tile as the desk banged into the seat in front of her. “No!” Her shout rang out in the small, quiet room.

Floor heaving like rolling waves, she leaned against the desk on unsteady legs. Startled students in her weapons-and-tactics class stared at her, most of them shaking their heads and smirking. Ridicule and resentment came as a barrage of stinging barbs digging under her skin. Concentrated emotions of pity, anger, concern, scorn, disgust and envy bombarded against her attempt to focus, to gain control.

In a practiced technique, Erynn envisioned a wide tunnel of white brightness spiraling into a tiny point of light. This method narrowed her exposure to the emotions of others. The reactions assailing her all but disappeared. She hissed quick breaths through clamped teeth and the nauseating sensation of motion stopped.

About the Author

 

I have always been a reader. I love books. When I’m not able to read, I listen to audio books. I started writing while working as a Paramedic/Firefighter in Northern California. Trust me, it’s not like it appears on TV. There was plenty of time for books, mostly reading them. I didn’t seriously start writing until I moved to my ranch in Oregon. While waiting for lambs to be born in the middle of the night, I would head back to the house for an hour or two and sit down at the computer. Before I knew it, I had a manuscript. Not a good one, but a start.I joined critique groups and attended writer’s conferences. I was on the fast track to learning.

In 2013, I received an honorable mention in Writer’s Digest’s Self Published book awards for MG/YA. I guess I am learning something!

Ideas from dreams follow me into warm sunny days or the quiet of falling snow. “What ifs” feed a vivid imagination. Even mistyped phrases may lead to an “aha” moment. Brain storming sessions standing in windy, dark parking lots with fellow writers release thoughts that pry at the corners of my mind, grasping for purchase. Sometimes the ideas pursue me, with persistence.

For More Information

GIVEAWAY

R.E. Sheahan is giving away a paperback copy of Book Two (Storm of Arranon Fire) and Book Three (Storm of Arranon Allies and Enemies)!

Terms & Conditions:
  • By entering the giveaway, you are confirming you are at least 18 years old.
  • One winner will be chosen via Rafflecopter to receive both books
  • This giveaway ends midnight October 28.
  • Winner will be contacted via email on October 29.
  • Winner has 48 hours to reply.
Good luck everyone!

ENTER TO WIN!

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
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So far, there are three book in the series, and if it sounds like it’s for you, it is available in a three book set for $8.97 on Amazon.

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Giveaway – Barrier by D C Renfroe #DCRenfroe

Barrier by D.C. Renfroe

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

GENRE: Romance Thriller

RELEASE DATE:  October 10, 2016

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 Pageflex Persona [document: PRS0000040_00057]

BLURB:

When Claire Luna is kidnapped and taken to a remote island, her predictable life is torn to shreds. She thought she understood grief, loss and loneliness. But nothing prepared her for the island.

Tucker Knight had his world turned upside down when he was a young teen. He’d known love, security and normality. But things changed, and somehow he lost his innocence along the way.

Barrier takes you on a compelling, thrilling and sometimes brutal journey of Claire and Tucker, who in a bid to control their destiny, must learn about trust and submission. And also about love.

The island is under the control of Dr. Stephen Bell, a scientist obsessed with the secrets of humanity through genetic engineering. Claire is part of his obsession, and quickly comprehends Bell’s twisted intentions. She is forced to decide between submission and life-altering consequences. In her desperate attempt to survive, Claire surprises Bell and Tucker with her strength to fight.

But, can she trust Tucker? Is he her enemy or her savior? Claire understands that to surrender means to survive, but can she endure? Tucker can’t help but be enamored by the spirited and determined Claire, but to survive, he must face and overcome his haunting past. Up until Claire’s arrival on the island, he had never thought himself capable, or deserving, but perhaps this was his chance to finally do the right thing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

mediakit_authorphoto_barrierI began writing many years ago and put it aside to raise a family. I put myself through college working toward a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication, which I have almost completed. I took every writing class that was offered and finally put pen to paper after dreaming of completing a novel for almost twenty years. In the meantime, I worked as a freelance journalist for a local newspaper briefly and wrote a personal blog while living in south Florida. I currently work as an Instructional Designer based in Austin, Texas. I am a mother of four and truly believe they are my greatest creation! Two of my children inherited my love of writing and I encourage them to write every chance they get!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

GIVEAWAY

The author will be awarding a $10 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

Follow the tour and comment; the more you comment, the better yourchances of winning. The tour dates can be found HERE.

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
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Giveaway – Aspen Everlasting by Kathryn Cooper @katcoopwrites

Aspen Everlasting

Aspen Everlasting by Kathryn Cooper

Water splashed on all sides then took control of the tires. The car swerved right toward the river.

“No. NO. NO!” I turned the wheel toward the road. It didn’t work. Fast running water pulled the car into the flooded river.

Aspen Foster thinks she’s just a normal sixteen-year-old, but when her car’s caught in a flash flood, Aspen and her sister discover the superhuman strength they never knew they had.

Soon Aspen learns she’s not normal at all. She’s an Evermortal fairy, with powers beyond her wildest dreams. But the more Aspen finds out about her family’s past, the more dangerous her future becomes.

This riveting fantasy is full of action, adventure, and romance. Suspenseful and exhilarating!


amazonbarnes and noble

Praise for the Book

“Aspen Everlasting is a fun paranormal romance. This is the perfect fit for young teens as well as adults who want a clean romance that is entertaining to read.” -Jessica from Books A True Story

“Aspen Everlasting is a quick read, and packed full of action and suspense. . . I can’t wait to read more from Kathryn!” – Tammy from Bluerose’s Heart

“I love this book so much! It was fantastic! It was so imaginative and different. I’ve never read anything like it before and it drew me in right away!” – author Shannen Crane Camp

goodreads

Excerpts

“Want me to come with you?”

I looked up at his grin. Of course I did. I’d been crushing on him since we were ten. Six years was a long time to have a crush. But…

“You’d better not. I’m picking up three sophomore cheerleaders. There might be too much girl drama for you to handle.”

He threw his head back and laughed, then stepped closer. “I think you’re right. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Aspen talking with Nate

A large puddle spread out in front of us on the road. It looked like we could make it through, so I pushed harder on the gas pedal. Water splashed on all sides but then took control of the tires. The car swerved right toward the river.

“No. NO. NO!” I turned the wheel toward the road. It didn’t work. Fast running water pulled the car into the flooded river. The girls screamed as we rode the car like a water ride at an amusement park. My brain froze. I couldn’t think of what to do. The river took control of the car, spinning us around.

Aspen with friends driving in a Texas flash flood

99 cents

September 1st to 7th

Aspen Everlasting will be reduced to just 99 cents on Amazon!

amazon get it

kathryn cooperAuthor Kathryn Cooper
Kathryn Cooper lives in the heart of Texas with her husband and four young boys. She has read and blogged about other authors’ books for years. She is excited to finally have her own book out for readers. Aspen Everlasting is her first novel.

Website * Twitter * Facebook * Instagram

Blast Giveaway

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Ends 9/19/16

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

  • To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.
  • To see all my reviews, go HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
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  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
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Free Romantic Suspense – A Cold Dark Place by Toni Anderson @toniannanderson

acdp-sale

Toni Anderson’s A COLD DARK PLACE is available now for free! If you’re looking for a thrilling and sexy romance, you do not want to miss this first book in her bestselling Cold Justice series!

 

AColdDarkPlace_ToniAnderson_ebookfinalAbout A COLD DARK PLACE

Justice isn’t always black or white.

Former CIA assassin Alex Parker works for The Gateway Project, a clandestine government organization hell-bent on taking out serial killers and pedophiles before they enter the justice system. Alex doesn’t enjoy killing, but he’s damn good at it. He’s good at dodging the law, too–until a beautiful rookie agent has him wondering what it might be like to get caught.

FBI Special Agent Mallory Rooney has spent years hunting the lowlife who abducted her identical twin sister eighteen years ago. Now, during an on-going serial killer investigation, Mallory begins to suspect there’s a vigilante operating outside the law. She has no choice but to take him down, because murder isn’t justice. Is it?

Sometimes it’s cold and dark.

When Mallory starts asking questions, The Gateway Project management starts to sweat, and orders Alex to watch her. As soon as they meet, the two begin to fall in love. But the lies and betrayals that define Alex’s life threaten to destroy them both–especially when the man who stole her sister all those years ago makes Mallory his next target, and Alex must reveal his true identity to save the woman he loves.

Add it to your Goodreads list here!

Get your hands on A COLD DARK PLACE for free:

Amazon | iBooks | Barnes and Noble | Kobo | Google Play

 Read an excerpt from A COLD DARK PLACE:

“We’re up to fifteen women,” Lucas’s voice was gruff. The dark circles under his eyes added a worn out quality to his grim expression. He answered her silent question with a shake of his head. “I didn’t see any kids and no one who looked like Payton.”

Mallory was torn between disappointment and relief.

“He kept more personal trophies in his bedroom. Whoever shot the sonofabitch did the world a favor.” A flicker of unguarded emotion crossed his face. Then he buried it beneath six years field experience and a flat cop stare. “You’ll hear all the details at the briefing.” He rubbed the back of his neck. “Lemme get a coffee and we’ll head over together.” He froze as a stranger wearing a visitor badge and carrying a laptop walked through the office doorway. “Alex? What the—?”

“You missed the meeting, asshole.” The man’s expression was fierce. “Thought I’d hunt you down and make you buy me a beer.” His gaze darted to her. “Looks like a bad time though.”

“That was today?” Lucas palmed his forehead. “Jesus, you’re right. I’m an asshole.”

“I already covered that.” The man— Alex— grinned, and Mallory got a fierce blast of gorgeous. The response wrung a reluctant smile out of Lucas.

“Believe it or not, Mal, this is a good friend of mine, Alex Parker. I asked him to attend a Counterintelligence Awareness Group briefing I organized so he could tell us about some of the latest internet security measures being developed in the private sector. He runs his own company in DC. Does a lot of government contracts. We served together in Afghanistan.” His gaze swung back to Alex. “I assume the meeting went ahead without me?”

Alex nodded. “We managed to fumble along without your incisive brilliance.”

“Yet I’m the asshole,” Lucas grinned. “This here is Special Agent Mallory Rooney.”

The stranger held out a tanned strong-looking hand as they were introduced. His skin was warm, fingers firm as they squeezed hers.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Agent Rooney.” The self-deprecating smile was a killer. So was the short, ruffled light-brown hair and days’ worth of scruff on his jaw.

Despite the tailored suit, he hadn’t been intimidated enough by the high powered members of that committee to shave. The contrast snagged her attention. He was different from the law enforcement personnel and political players she usually met. There was something underplayed and restrained about him that didn’t mesh with the keen intelligence she saw in his eyes, nor the taut looking muscles that filled out that suit. It intrigued her. She hadn’t been intrigued on a personal level in a long time.

“You work in security?” she asked. “Keeping Trade Secrets secret— or trying to. It isn’t exactly running the gauntlet every day like you guys.”

Lucas sat atop his messy desk. “Says the man with the Distinguished Service Cross.”

Something vulnerable sparked in those slate eyes. “I got caught in a firefight and managed not to get killed. I got lucky.” Those eyes of his weren’t revealing anything now— all emotion banked. “I better let you get back to work. It’s a long drive back to DC.”

Their boss walked in and Mallory stiffened. Danbridge’s gaze skimmed Alex with a cursory glance that notched up to feminine appreciation on the second go ’round.

“Special Agent Randall, I need a word.” Then she walked into her office, heels tapping.

Lucas swore under his breath. “Alex, I owe you big time, buddy. I’ll be in touch. Will you show him out for me, Mal?”

“Sure,” she said. The longer she could avoid her boss the better. The two men shook hands and said goodbye.

“I can find my own way,” Alex said softly.

“No problem. I need to stretch my legs anyway.”

His gaze flicked to her boots and up, the brush of it almost as intimate as a physical touch. An unfamiliar sliver of sensation unfurled inside her, nearly unrecognizable because it had been so long. Attraction.

Telling herself she wasn’t deliberately prolonging their time together, she took the stairs as she led the way out. He was taller than she’d first realized. In her low-heeled boots she stood just under five foot nine and he was four or five inches taller. She frowned. Seeing him at a distance standing beside Lucas, she’d have described him as medium height and just okay looking. Up close, when you got the full force of those intelligent gray eyes and that perfectly proportioned masculine face, he was a hottie. Made you appreciate the inaccuracy of eye-witness accounts. No wedding ring either.

It was her job to pay attention to detail.

Even though she maintained a space between them she was hyperaware of him beside her. Outside the front entrance of the five-story, white concrete building he turned to her and asked, “Can I take you out to dinner sometime?”

“I don’t date.” The answer came out automatically before her brain engaged. Crap.

There was a long pause while those beautiful eyes of his wandered over her face, resting on her bruise from yesterday. He didn’t argue or try to change her mind.

“It was nice to meet you, Special Agent Rooney.” And then he walked away.

She squeezed her hands into fists. Damn, why had she said no?

Because she didn’t date.

She watched Alex Parker climb into his car— a low-slung sporty job— and raise a hand before he drove away. His car disappeared and a familiar sense of loss rushed over her. She clenched her jaw, turned around and went back to work.

About Toni Anderson

New York Times and USA Today international bestselling author, Toni Anderson, writes dark, gritty Romantic Suspense novels that have hit #1 in Barnes & Noble’s Nook store, the Top 10 in Amazon and Kobo stores, and the Top 50 in iBooks. Her novels have won many awards. A former Marine Biologist from Britain, she inexplicably ended up in the geographical center of North America, about as far from the ocean as it is possible to get. She now lives in the Canadian prairies with her Irish husband and two children and spends most of her time complaining about the weather.

Toni has no explanation for her oft-times dark imagination, and only hopes the romance makes up for it. She’s addicted to reading, dogs, tea, and chocolate.

If you want to know when Toni’s next book will be out, visit her website (http://www.toniandersonauthor.com) and sign up for her newsletter. If you want to read other fascinating stories about life in a city that, during winter, is sometimes colder than Mars, friend her on Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/toniannanderson).

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Teaser Tuesday #73 – Tales of a Redheaded Sea Witch by J E Hunter @byJEHunter

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Teaser

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of booksandabeat.

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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Bullet in the Blue Sky by Bill Larkin

I love anything to do with oceans and water of any kind, so just the cover for Tales of a Reheaded Sea Witch by J E Hunter tells me this one if for me.

I will be reviewing this on September 7, 2016, so be sure to check back and enter the giveaway.

Tales of a Redheaded Sea-Witch cover

MY TEASE

“Yes, Nessa does have a lot to learn, including the fact that mermaids are real – as are a lot of other creatures that humans believe to be purely mythical. But that will all be corrected soon; your studies will begin tonight.” Grandma looked at me with her perfectly tweezed and arched eyebrows. Was it weird that she rarely blinked?

(page 20% on Kindle)

So far, this is a fun, yet sad, look at a young girls discovery…that she is a sea witch.

Add me to Goodreads

GOODREADS BLURB:  Death, power, transformation….
When Nessa’s dad dies, the last thing she’s expecting is to loose everything else too. But when her hair suddenly turns electric red, and her estranged grandma turns up on her doorstep ready to haul her off to an isolated island, that’s exactly what happens. In one day, Nessa losses her mother and her friends, and learns that she’s a redheaded sea-witch with magical powers. She’s one of many Neptunians – magical beings blessed by the sea – which includes selkies, mermaids, and sea nymphs. Nessa doesn’t want to live on an island, she doesn’t want to be a sea-witch, and she certainly doesn’t want to be hunted by humans who harvest Neptunians for their magical powers. But if Nessa wants to live, she’ll have to accept her new life and everything that comes with it, including a witty pirate names Caesar, who just might break her heart.

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Giveaway & Review – Forgetting Jane by C J Warrant @cjwarrant @PromoBookTours

ForgettingJanetourbannerForgetting Jane-002-2MY REVIEW

WOW. MIND BLOWING ACTION

I love the simple cover by Michelle Crocker.

Forgetting Jane by C J Warrant starts out with one of my worst nightmares…being buried alive…and I hold my breath until…

WOW, what an opening scene for a fantastic novel.

YAY, two mysteries in one. Who buried Jane Doe and who is she? She has amnesia and I cannot imagine the terror as she struggles to tell the difference between the real and the unreal. I too am wondering what is going on. Who is the girl in the yellow dress?

The sick son of a bitch stalking her is determined to finish what he started. Who is he? Why is he so bold?

Small town cop, Elias McAvoy, knew HIS visit to Jane was a message. The stalker must be local. Imagine knowing it’s someone you live with, someone you talk to day in and day out. I was scared for her at every turn…every time a chapter started, her hospital door opened, her eyes opened…a constant state of suspense at a steady pace created a feeling of terror.

Elias and Jane are so hurt and damaged, lost. Would they be drawn together? Could they heal each other’s wounds…if given the chance? Finally, he did something to…maybe…get through to her. Or is she just crazy?

I was so waiting for Caroline to SHUT THE HELL up.

Harold…is he just misunderstood and harmless? I think he has an important part to play.

I have two very strong suspects…among the many. Okay, I can rule him out, but he was too obvious anyway. Another suspect is proven innocent. Who is it? Every time I “turn the page”, I expect him to jump out at me…again! My first thought was right, but C J Warrant sure had me going. Yes, no, yes, no.

Suspense…WOW…off the charts from the beginning to the end. This adult romantic paranormal suspense novel leaves me “panting” for more. If you like fast paced nonstop suspense causing the hair to rise on the back of your neck and shivers to run up and down your spine, you MUST READ Forgetting Jane by C J Warrant.

I received a copy of Forgetting Jane by C J Warrant in return for an honest review.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos 5 Stars

ABOUT THE BOOK

Amnesia and an unspeakable crime have stolen everything from Jane Doe except the haunting image of a girl in a yellow dress, which replays itself over and over in her mind.

Small town cop Elias McAvoy is haunted as well, by the crushing guilt he feels over the deaths of two women, one by his own hand. He can’t-he won’t-let Jane down too.

Together they delve deeper into Jane’s case, battling against her memory loss, and an increasingly tangled web of lies and murder that span forty years-and ties Elias and Jane together in ways they never imagined. As the mystery of the girl in the yellow dress unfold, so does Elias and Jane’s love for each other. However, when the killer reappears, intent on finishing what he started, Elias must face his demons in order to save the woman he loves or lose her forever.

Pre-order on Amazon

Culhane, Cyndi 2_1 2CJ Warrant is an Award Winning Author for dark romantic suspense and thrillers that pulls at your heart, makes you shiver with fear, and hope for a happy ending. A lover of coffee, baking and family, but not in that order—She’s a wife, a loving mother of three and a cosmetologist by trade. Drawing her experiences from her Korean Italian heritage and growing up as an Army brat, her stories stir in dark plots with addictive flawed characters you will fall in love with.

Visit CJ on the web at www.cjwarrant.com

Watch the Book Trailer

Social Media Links

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Pinterest / Tumbler / Goodreads / linkedin

Enter to win a signed paperback of Forgetting Jane and a $5 Amazon GC
a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Giveaway & Review – Tasting Temptation by Aria Glazki @AriaGlazki

I am excited to have Aria Glazki, a long time blogging buddy and author, to fundinmental today to share her new release Tasting Temptation. I hope you are ready for some sweet lovin’, because Aria is going to tell us…take it away Aria…

Why Have Sex? (in Fiction)

Readers who are familiar with Mending Heartstrings might be shocked by the explicit scenes in Tasting Temptation. Those who’ve read my previous posts about writing sex shouldn’t be, because—as always—it’s all about the characters.

For Sabella and Kane (Mending Heartstrings), the relationship progressed in a more “traditional” manner. The two of them got to know each other, became comfortable together, and developed a sense of emotional intimacy before things ever became physical. Add to that the fact that Sabella especially is a bit more private about physical intimacy, and very little of her and Kane’s sexual relationship ended up on the page.

For Gina and Hunter (Tasting Temptation), everything is different. The start of their relationship is nothing but sex—and Gina is anything but shy. At first, these two don’t even know each other’s names. The one and only way they relate to each other is physically. So, of course, those moments are what the reader sees.

Naturally (this is a romance), Gina and Hunter’s relationship grows from that place of simple physicality. As the way they relate to each other changes, so too do the details of how they have sex. In fact, shifts in their approach to the other person, bits of feelings they aren’t ready to express, and more—all of it is visible first in these moments where they retreat to something as basic and as complicated as sex.

Were these scenes not included, or had they been glossed over, much—or maybe even most—of Hunter and Gina’s relationship would be lost. Rather than witnessing the development of their emotions, the reader would be left adrift amid disconnected snapshots culminating in a sense of intimacy that would feel unfounded, and false. So in this book, there is a fair amount of explicit sex, but no moment is gratuitous. Like with the other scenes, every moment when you see Gina and Hunter coming together is an integral puzzle piece contributing to the picture that is their story.

Thanks for sharing, Aria. It has been a pleasure having you visit! Congratulations on the new release and I wish you all the best.

Now…lets check out Tasting Temptation by Aria Glazki. Shall we start with the cover?

What do you think?

 tastingtemptation-glazki-ebookwebMY REVIEW

I love the pretty cover for Tasting Temptation by Aria Glazki. It is simple, yet hints at more than meets the eye. I think it perfectly portrays Gina, who is broken, and I want her whole again. Will she meet the man who can help her?

Tasting Temptation is Book II in the Foraging Forever series. I have read Mending Heartstrings, Book I, and wonder why I only gave it three stars after reading Gina’s story. I think because the characters are polar opposites and I can relate to Gina better than Sabella. Sabella is the goody two shoes kind of gal, while Gina is carefree and flirty with sexual innuendos lacing her dialogue. Her defenses are up and the walls are high, after being badly burned by a rich playboy and I wonder at the type of man that can heal her.

The story starts out hot and heavy and immediately grabbed my attention. To Gina, Hunter is a hot and sexy boy toy and I think I would like to play with him too. Gina meets him at the vineyard where her best friend, Sabella, is getting married. She kept telling herself the single life and casual sex with a yummy guy was for her. I think she is in for a wake up call. I think we all know what is to come, but at 18% into Gina’s story, I am hooked and loving every minute of it. We are getting to the heart of the matter and I am eager to see how it plays out.

Her past nightmare playboy has entered the picture and the abuse of wealth and privilege and his need for revenge creates an insidious evil that touches everyone who comes near her. I am so pissed at him that my anger brings tears to my eyes and I want to reach through my kindle and wreak my own havoc. I didn’t cry…until I was 90% into the story.

Novels that are strictly romance are not big on my hit list, but I love Gina and Hunter. Their romance left me as breathless as Gina was. Even though I know how Tasting Temptation will end, I can hardly wait to get there. I knew there would be a happy every after and Aria Glazki’s writing had me unable to quit until I reached it.

I received a copy of Tasting Temptation by Aria Glazki in return for an honest review.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos 4 Stars

Tasting Temptation Blurb:
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After last summer’s failed attempt at romance, Gina is absolutely done with men. And especially with millionaires. She has a good job as a fashion editor and amazing friends, and she’s decided she needs nothing else. All she really misses is the sex. But that rush just isn’t worth the risk of being ensnared in another relationship. When the hot bartender at her best friend’s Sonoma wedding suggests some harmless stress relief, she takes him up on the offer. When it’s sufficiently satisfactory, she indulges in a repeat–for the road. When she learns he’s actually the wealthy owner of the vineyard, the mix of fury and fear is damped only by the knowledge that she never has to see him again.
Hunter Cavaliere is determined to honor his grandfather’s legacy, and so far, he’s right on track. The vineyard is thriving, he has plans for expansion, and his wines speak for themselves. The only thing missing is the right woman to share it all. But through his grandparents’ marriage, Hunter learned what true love is, and he’s unwilling to settle for anything else. A woman who judges him because of his money definitely isn’t high up on his list. Still, when circumstance unbelievably keeps bumping him into the intriguing brunette from Portland, he can’t shake the feeling that she is someone he should pursue.
Gina’s poised to run the other way, but one more taste of Hunter may just prove too tempting to resist.
 
BUY LINKS
 

UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01FPNK182

CAN: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01FPNK182

Autographed print copies: ariaglazki.selz.com
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ABOUT ARIA GLAZKI
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Aria GlazkiAria Glazki’s first kiss technically came from a bear cub. Though no fairytale transformation followed, she still believes magic can happen when the right people come together—if they don’t get in their own way, that is. So now Aria writes heartfelt romances about relatable people overcoming real-world obstacles to build love that lasts.
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Social media links: 
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a Rafflecopter giveaway

  • To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.
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Check out her other stories and my review links below:

Mending Heartstrings

Mortal Musings

Life Under Examination

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Giveaway – Simply The Best Romance Novels

MBB_SimplyTheBest_TourBannerSimply The Best has such a fantastic selection of romance novels, I couldn’t resist sharing it with you. No matter what genre is your fave, you are bound to find it here.

Media Kit _BookCover_SimplyTheBestSimply the Best: A Collection of International Digital

Award Winning Romances

by L.A. Sartor, Laurel O’Donnell, Kathy L Wheeler, Dale Mayer,

Charity Tahmaseb, Cynthia A Clement

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GENRE:  Multi-genre

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BLURB:

This collection of multi-genre romances features winning novels from the International Digital Awards, including historical, suspense/thriller, short historical, contemporary, paranormal, and young adult. Simply the Best of all worlds!

BUY LINKS: 

Haunted by Death ~ Dale Mayer

Death haunts anthropologist Meg Pearce…In her last summer before college, an innocent camping trip ended in a friend’s disappearance…and destroyed her life.

Angel’s Assassin ~ Laurel O’Donnell

When Damien enters Aurora’s life, tempting her with promises of dark passion and forbidden lust, he threatens to tear her peaceful world apart with shadowy secrets of his own.

Be Mine This Christmas Night ~ L. A. Sartor

At Christmas, finding love and a family seems even more possible…unless you’re keeping a secret.

A Hunter 4 Rescue ~ Cynthia Clement

Worlds Apart. Joined by Love

A unit of elite alien warriors, known as Hunters, crash lands on earth and their leader is torn between getting his men to safety or protecting the human woman he has bonded with.

The Fine Art of Keeping Quiet ~ Charity Tahmaseb

Sometimes staying silent is the biggest lie of all

No one expects the girl who has mastered the art of keeping quiet to join the speech team. But Jolia does. When a crush-worthy rival offers to coach her in secret, she can’t say no. But secrets have a price, and this one might cost Jolia everything.

The Mapmaker’s Wife ~ Kathy L Wheeler

In the midst of his worn-torn country, love posed the greater danger.

A flippant proposal and an attack on her person finds one young woman married to the
mapmaker who only needs someone to take control of his ungovernable child. Feelings quickly shift into something less platonic and when the enemy gains vital secrets, her suspicions land her in jail.

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EXCERPT

from The Mapmaker’s Wife ~ Kathy L Wheeler

“Miss Ruthers?”

“Yes. It’s me, Mr. Williams.”

“Good heavens, you’ll catch your death.” He leaned over the edge, gripping the wood rail. She thought she caught concern, however fleeting. “You haven’t a coat.”

“No, Mr. Williams. I didn’t have much time, I’m afraid.”

“You’d best come in.” At his grim tone, she cast a glance to the bank of trees behind. “Now, Miss Ruthers. It’s freezing out.”

Clutching her torn shirt tighter with one hand, Elizabeth lifted her skirts with the other and trod up the wood stairs, head held high. Dignity was her only salvation. With a confidence she didn’t feel, she marched past him and into a kitchen a bit larger than the one she’d fled.

Dishes filled the sink and the floor needed a good sweeping. His limp seemed more pronounced as he filed in and hung the lantern on a hook next to the door. He shut it softly, staring at her all the while, arms folded over a broad chest.

The heat in the kitchen, after the cold night, seemed stifling and overwarm. His eyes moved over her, pausing at her throat where her frozen hand secured her shirt in a fist, rising back up to her damp hair, dripping puddles on the floor. She was so warm, she felt faint.

After a long pause, he asked, “Is there something you wish to tell me, Miss Ruthers?”

“I-I accept your proposal.”

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AUTHOR Bio and Links:

This multi-author boxed set will be sold for $0.99 cents.

Dale Mayer is a USA Today bestselling author known for her page turning plotlines and
heartwarming characters. A prolific writer, she specializes in Romantic Suspense, but also writes thrillers, comedy, and contemporary romances.

Website / Twitter / Facebook

Award winning author Kathy L Wheeler loves travel, fantasy football, NBA and musical theatre. As an avid reader of romance and patron of the theatre, her main sources of inspiration come mostly from an over-active imagination. Kathy writes contemporary and historical romance, from sweet to spicy.

Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter

L.A. Sartor is a bestselling, award-winning author. She began telling stories around the age of 4 when her mother, at L.A.’s insistence, wrote them down and L.A. illustrated them. As an adult, she writes suspense and action-adventure novels with a dash of romance, and screenplays—she’s had a contracted adaptation!  She lives in Colorado with her husband whom she met on a blind date.  L.A. loves to travel and thinks life is an adventure and we should embrace the journey.

Website / Facebook / Facebook Author Page / Twitter

Laurel O’Donnell is a best selling author and has won numerous awards for her medieval romances, including the International Digital Award and the Holt Medallion Award.

Website / Facebook / Twitter

Charity Tahmaseb has slung corn on the cob for Green Giant and jumped out of airplanes (but not at the same time). She’s worn both Girl Scout and Army green. These days, she writes fiction (short and long) and works as a technical writer.

Website/blog / Facebook / Twitter

Cynthia Clement is an award winning author who began writing when she was a teenager. Her novels reflect her love of romance, strong honorable heroes, and suspense intertwined with the intriguing and unexplained.

Website / Facebook / Twitter

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GIVEAWAY

The authors will be awarding a $25 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via
rafflecopter during the tour.

ENTER THE RAFFLECOPTER HERE

follow the tour and comment; the more you comment, the better your chances of winning. The tour dates can be found here.

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New Release – The Psycho Collection by @bonnierpaulson

Psychocollectionbanner

I love psycho serial killers!!!!

EVERYONE HAS A LITTLE PSYCHO INSIDE…

The Psycho Collection Box Set

IBOOKS
KOBO
KINDLE
NOOK
GOOGLE

PSYCHO INSIDE ME

I killed my first victim at thirteen years old – my age, not his. He was going to rape me, him and a couple of his friends. And so, I killed him. And then… I killed again. And again.

At seventeen, I’m killing four to six times a year – maybe more. Don’t stress out. I only go after the pedophiles and rapists. There are more out there than I could cover in a lifetime.

Saying I did this on my own would be selfish. Enforcing justice holds a glory all its own. But now, my lifelong friend and backup, Deegan, has been arrested. I have to decide if I want to give myself up and take his place or leave him with all the damning evidence. I don’t want to stop killing. But if I let him take the fall, I can’t kill anymore. And I need to keep doing that.

But the worst part of it all? I love him.

DICTATING DEATH

Samantha wants to love him.

Maria wants to kill him.

Dr. Luke Lawson has no idea that the girl he’s dating has split personalities fighting to control her body. Samantha must keep Luke safe at all costs.

If Samantha wins, Maria will die and disappear forever – taking Samantha with her.

If Maria wins, Dr. Lawson will die and she and Samantha will move on to the next doctor – the next kill.

But Luke is special.

He could save Samantha from herself… but only if Samantha can save him.

WATCH ME BURN

Levi

I’ve been in love and it hurts.

We hurt each other.

On purpose.

I can’t escape the guilt.

Megan

I don’t want to be just friends with Levi.

But I will be.

He’s been hurt before and I just want to be there for him.

Someone needs to be on his side.

Chelsea

Levi Cole is mine.

I want him.

She can’t have him.

She needs to die.

  • To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.
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