Book Tour: The Phoenix Blade by Andrew Hess

The Phoenix Blade

by Andrew Hess

About The Author:

Andrew Hess (1983-present) was born in Lindenhurst, NY where he spent most of his life. After living in the New Paltz/Poughkeepsie, NY area for five years (2003-2008) he returned home to Long Island to pursue his dream of writing. Andrew published his first book, The Chamber of Souls (2011), where he blended free verse poetry and short story into one book.

Blog | The Real Phoenix 13 | Book Page FB | Twitter | Linkedin

Genre: Action/Drama

Publisher: CreateSpace

Release Date: April 24, 2013

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Book Description:

Follow the journey of Andrew Lancaster and his friends as they are thrown in the middle of the biggest government conspiracy to hit the United States. Andrew is contacted by a man known only as the Benefactor.; claiming to be a government official that has been monitoring Lancaster and his friends. He is told they have enough evidence to arrest them for treason, but would like to hire them instead for a top secret government project. As a bonus the Benefactor says he will reveal something Lancaster has wanted to know for the last six years. Who killed his mother.

Excerpt:

"I keep thinking how so much has changed in the last ten years." "Here we go again." "I mean it. When we were kids everything was different. The world was more peaceful. Everyone got along and helped each other. But now everyone's fueled by greed, corruption, and they get some sick pleasure from hurting others." "I know what you mean, but there's not much we can do about it. Too many people think they have to do whatever's necessary to get ahead in life." "I still wish we could change it." "Yeah, it'd be great to get rid of all those people." Mike reached for the remote to turn the movie back on. "Too bad it'll never happen." I knew he was right. Our idea was ludicrous. But at that moment, my cell started ringing. "Talk to me," I answered. "Yes hi, I'm looking for Mr. Andrew Lancaster," a stern confident voice said. "Who's calling?" "Someone who has the power to change your future." "If this is some telemarketer, you can hang up now. I'm not interested. "I assure you this isn't a sales pitch and I'm not a telemarketer." "Then what do you want?" "It's come to my attention that you and a few friends have been talking about eliminating certain types of people." "What are you talking about?" "Don't play dumb Mr. Lancaster. You and your friends have been monitored for some time now. We know everything." "Who are you?" "I'm someone from the government that would like to give you an ultimatum. We have e-mails and recorded conversations between you and your friends talking about killing people that are as you said evil." "Look, Mr. we were only joking around." Mike heard the panic in my voice. My face turned pale white. "What's going on," he whispered. I placed the call on speaker and placed a finger to my lips. "Be that as it may. You've been under our watchful eye for several months. Now, we can do this the easy way, or the hard way." "And that would be?" "The hard way is we send our agents to your house and arrest you for conspiracy and possible treason." "Are you fucking serious," Mike shouted. I quickly covered his mouth with my hand. "Who is that? Who's with you?" I didn't reply. I could hear him rifling through papers. "Ah yes, that is most likely Mr. Santangelo." "How does he know my…" "What's the easy way," I asked. The man cleared his throat. "Simple, we hire you to go through with it." I laughed it off immediately. "Yeah right, and next you're going to tell me that I'm the next in line to be King of England." "I don't know about that, but I'm very serious. We have a list of targets and evidence that proves their illegal activities. We would like to give you the chance to make the world a better place." "If you have evidence against them, why not put them in jail where they belong?" "Because they have ways of getting around our judicial system. We all know it's fallible." "But why me?" "Who better to lead a team than someone who has never received justice for his own mother's death?" "But it was ruled an accident." "That's what you were led to believe. I have proof she was murdered and know who's responsible."

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Book Tour: Hesparia's Tears By Imogene Nix

Hesparia's Tears
by Imogene Nix
Erotic Sci-Fi/Futuristic Romance
Categories: Action/Adventure
Publisher: Total-E-Bound
Release Date: August 9, 2013
Heat Level: Steamy
Word Count: 56,211

Available at:
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Description:

What will happen when the past catches up?

Galan is from Hesparia, a prince on a planet where the females are dying out his people need an alliance with the humans.

Jessa has a past, one she hasn't earned but cannot escape.

What will happen when opportunity knocks?

Galan travels to earth, hoping to plead the case for Hesparia. He doesn't expect Jessa or The Quickening.

Can he make the case for women to migrate to Hesparia? Can he get the humans to trust him enough to form an alliance? And is there hope for this couple to overcome the obstacles in their way?

Warning: This title is intended for readers over the age of 18 as it contains adult sexual situations and/or adult language, and may be considered offensive to some readers.

BOOK TRAILER

Excerpt:

The spaceship entered orbit and Jessa watched the tracking on the television. Since learning of the existence of extraterrestrials, it was about all she wanted to do. See where they were and where they planned to land.

The reporter came back on the screen. "We believe they will make their landing somewhere on the continent of Australia. There have been no further radio communications from the craft, however. So it is, at best, an educated guess right now."

Jessa giggled at the sober face of the young, twenty-something reporter standing outside the Parkes Observatory and the inane follow up comment made by the thirtyish female news anchor.

"Jessa, it's time for bed!" her mother yelled again.

She sighed dramatically. At twenty-four she was no longer a child, even though her parents seemed to struggle with that small fact.

Maybe it's time to move out. As quickly as the thought had crossed her mind, she dismissed it. Leaving home meant more expense than she could possibly afford. The thing that really irked her was paying an outstanding legal bill for something she hadn't even done. It was a refrain that had played through her mind over and over again since the event had taken place. It may have happened years ago, but she continued to pay for her youthful indiscretion. One she had long regretted.

Jessa stood, before heading down the old hallway to the bathroom. Living at home meant sharing a bathroom with her little brother, Ben. Of course, being a boy of sixteen, he was disgusting. There were used razor blades, splashes of water, foam from his recent shaving experience and hairs in the sink. Knowing it would make no difference complaining about it she carefully picked up the discarded detritus and placed it in the bin beside the vanity unit, wiped away the mess and began her own night-time ritual.

Emerging from the bathroom, she spied her mother, standing at the end of the hall in her fluffy blue dressing gown with matching slippers, and her blonde hair sitting high on her head in soft curlers. It was the same scene every night. "Night, Jessa."

"Night, Mum." What else was there to say? In a funk, Jessa entered her room, before closing the door then sat down on her single bed. She breathed deeply, letting the oxygen flow through her system, before slowly levering herself down across the mattress. Her blinds were open so she had an excellent view of the star-studded sky. It was a major positive to living on the edge of town, the absence of bright lights.

"Whoever you are, I certainly hope you're friendly," Jessa muttered, before closing her eyes, rolling onto her side and willing herself to sleep. For some reason, an excited thrill ran through her system.

Finally, visitors from the stars. No longer was it a figment of someone's imagination or something from a science fiction novel. The time had come for them to have contact with another species. That was a sobering thought. The Prime Minister had sent a radio message to the ship. God, I hope the Prime Minister didn't act like a pompous dick. Jessa snuggled down under the covers, waiting for the touch of sleep. Her mind wandered and she drowsed.

Her mobile, sitting on the bedside table buzzed and vibrated. Jessa muttered in the dark, groping for the device. She reached out and found the red leather covered item and dragged it to her ears.

"'lo?"

"Jessa, it's me. Seth. Can you come to the office at the telescope? I need you." His voice was excited.

She squinted. "I was asleep, Seth. Besides which, I'm off duty until Saturday." The room was gloomy and she screwed her face up into a scowl, knowing sleep would probably elude her now. "What could be so important that I need to come in right now?" Jessa pushed back the covers, swung her legs over the side then slipped her feet into her old grey slippers beside the bed.

"I can't tell you over the phone."

"What?" Something was happening. An agitated thrill filled her chest and for an instant her mind warred with the interest that spiked.

"Jessa…"

He didn't need to plead. Jessa was already getting up to hunt out clothes. "Sure. Yeah, I'll be there in a few minutes."

"Thanks. You really won't regret it." The delight in his voice was contagious.

Jessa hurriedly tapped the end call button.

* * * *

The land, so alien with hues of blue and green, grew larger as the craft descended. "Captain, do you really intend to land here? After those transmissions?"

Galan sat in his chair, watching the view-screen, hearing the concern and horror in the voice of his second-in-command. "I do, Joras. We must remember our primary objective." He knew his words sounded unconcerned, yet he too had reservations after the tone of the communications he had received from the…what did they call themselves? Oh right, yes, Earthlings… "It's obvious they had no imagination, calling themselves Earthlings. Especially the woman who had called herself the Prime Minister, whatever that is." He shook his head. "But what did pique my interest was the other transmission I received-the young man, who had called himself Seth. He sounded like he might be a possible go-between for us. Something our people had always found helpful in the past when dealing with new planets."

Frustration pulled at him as he rose from his seat, making his way to the navigator's position. "How long until landing?"

"Sir, on our current course, I estimate no more than three horanas." Galan nodded absently. Three horanas to prepare. It wasn't much, but it would have to do. "Joras, have your security team ready and fully briefed. We'll have to treat this as an ambassadorial meeting. I will prepare a communiqué for our Liege, concerning our position and plans." Galan turned back to his friend, rubbing a hand absently along his hairless jaw. "Joras, when we land, I need you to remain here."

About The Author:

A mother of two, compulsive reader and bookstore owner. She lives in regional Queensland, Australia with her husband, 2 daughters, dog, cats and prize winning chooks. She has a particular fondness for Vampires, Star Ship Captains and things that go bump in the night.

She is also a firm believer in writing what you enjoy… something she strictly adheres to!

Connect with Imogene Nix

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GIVEAWAY:

2 eBook copies (1 each to 2 winners) of "Hesparia's Tears" from Imogene Nix. Contest is tour-wide, open internationally and ends Aug 24. Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

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Cover Reveal: Coven By K.A. Young

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Book Blitz: Sweet Series By Bailey Ardisone

Title: Sweet Oblivion
Series: Sweet Series #1
By: Bailey Ardisone
Published: March 24th, 2013 by Bailey Ardisone

Blurb:

When two worlds collide, nightmares become reality. And some secrets...are best kept in Oblivion.
...Until there is hope.

Have you ever wanted to forget? Nariella Woodlinn has. Many times. Especially when her already frustrating life gets turned upside down by a mysterious boy who randomly shows up in her small town. And she can't seem to understand anything about him, despite how much she tries.
Nari hates everything about her life, except for her best friend Rydan, but now that they've been separated during their senior year of high school, she has to learn to make new friends without him. When strange, unexplainable phenomena start becoming an every day part of her life, Nari struggles to come to grips with reality. And with love.

~

Naminé has responsibilities. Duties. It is her obligation to fulfill all that is asked of her by their King. But when a glimmer of hope is introduced to her by a prisoner she tends to, it means life or death for her and her people. She does all that she can to turn that hope into reality, and finally end the vicious war that has been ensuing since she was born. Even if that means keeping it secret from her King. Even if it means carrying out the biggest betrayal against the King ever seen during her time.

She has hope. She will fulfill her duty. She will not let her people down.

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Excerpt:

Prisoner number 5287 was located deep in the dungeon. Down a long corridor, past fifty-two prison cells, all filled with ones considered an enemy of the King. They were all his own people, but he condemned them traitors. Some were actual criminals, given a trial and convicted of their crimes. But there were many who never got a trial, never got a say, not even named on the prisoner logs, and forgotten in the dark abyss of the prison.

Down the corridor, three flights of stairs, and through a warded iron gate held a small cage like cell that housed the oldest prisoner here. Prisoner number 5287.

I didn't know his name.

I didn't know his crime.

But he gave me hope.

Title: Sweet Escape
Series: Sweet Series #2
By: Bailey Ardisone
Published: July 25th, 2013 by Bailey Ardisone

Blurb:

Sometimes the hardest war to fight is the one raging within yourself…

Life will never be the same for Nariella Woodlinn. Just when she thought she had it all figured out, her world comes crumbling down around her-yet again. With no idea who she is or even where she came from, how can she save herself?

She once thought her biggest problems were the ones brought on by the mysterious man she refused to fall in love with-Mycah. But she quickly discovers none of that compares to what she is about to encounter next.

This time, it isn't because of who Mycah is.

This time, it's because of who she is.

~

Naminé risked everything to save her people. Her goal was to bring their only hope back to their Kingdom. As the war rages on around her, Naminé gets thrown into the lion's den-the false King's chambers. Can she fool a King who can't be deceived on his playing field? Forced to do his bidding, can she prevent the downfall of the only hope she worked so hard to bring home? Will she be able to escape with her life and mind intact?

With everyone's world falling apart and deceit around every corner…can any of them truly Escape?

Goodreads

Excerpt:

~Naminé~

At first, I felt nothing. I had weaved our dreams together successfully, but felt nothing coming from him. We were connected, but I had no indication if he was here, or in what state of mind he would be in.

It was snowing ever-so lightly, and even though the sun was brightly shining above, I shivered in the freezing cold temperature. Wrapping my heavy cloak tighter and up around my face, I took a few steps and wandered about in the snow.

Suddenly, I got a slight sense of something coming from the East. I quickly turned to face the Eastern end of the mountain range, and even though I could not see him, I knew he was here, somewhere.

Again, I faintly sensed an essence, but now coming from the West. I whipped around and tried to focus on what was in front of me. I saw nothing.

Looking around, I realized the snow was thicker and I could hardly see a foot in front of me. Slowly, I began walking to the West, when without warning I sensed something-this time to the North. I stopped and turned my body to the right, but alas, nothing again.

My breathing quickened as I started to understand that he was playing with me, trying to trap me in his game. I all too soon did not want to be here anymore, and when I thought that perhaps I should end this façade, the ground that I was standing upon started to shake. I took a few steps backward and ended up with my back against the frigid mountain. After several seconds of incessant trembling, it felt like the mountain was going to collapse.

A loud thud to my right made me look over and up to see a giant avalanche of snow and ice tumbling down the side of the mountain, only to land a few feet from where I stood in a matter of seconds. I began to run in the opposite direction, but the slippery, icy snow prevented me from making it very far. I struggled with all my might to make my way to safety. Where did one hide from an avalanche?

Faintly, I heard deep sinister laughter in the air. I abruptly stopped and stood firm.

Author Interview:

The Avid Reader: What inspired you to write The Sweet Series?

Bailey Ardisone: Roswell, because it was my absolute fav when I was a teenager, and I was a bit obsessed. It gave me my idea that I had bouncing around my head for 10 years! But, I never thought to make it a book until my husband nagged me to death to try. ;) And of course Lord of the Rings is a huge inspiration to me.

The Avid Reader: When or at what age did you know you wanted to be a writer?

Bailey Ardisone: I was 24. And I am now 27. So, I am definitely a new writer. I have always been a huge day-dreamer, but I was more into drawing. I never thought I could write until a few years ago.

The Avid Reader: What is the earliest age you remember reading your first book?

Bailey Ardisone: I was 12, and it was A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks when it was first released. It was totally by random. Just the first book my cousin picked up at the bookstore one day and handed it to me, just for fun. I bawled my eyes out, and enjoyed reading ever since.

The Avid Reader: What genre of books do you enjoy reading?

Bailey Ardisone: Fantasy, paranormal, contemporary, and I love old classic books. I was a big classic book reader before I got into modern fantasy/paranormal/contemporary that is newly releasing today.

The Avid Reader: What is your favorite book?

Bailey Ardisone: Tie between Animal Farm by George Orwell and Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen. BUT.....for modern books, Star-Crossed series by Rachel Higginson is hands down my favorite.

The Avid Reader: You know I think we all have a favorite author. Who is your favorite author and why?

Bailey Ardisone: Rachel Higginson is my favorite modern author. Jane Austen or J.R.R. Tolkien are my favorite classic authors.

The Avid Reader: If you could travel back in time here on earth to any place or time. Where would you go and why?

Bailey Ardisone: I would for sure go to 1800's England. I am so fascinated by that time period, and I would absolutely love to see England the way Jane Austen writes it in her books.

The Avid Reader: When writing a book do you find that writing comes easy for you or is it a difficult task?

Bailey Ardisone: It comes very easy for me. I can finish a few chapters a day if I see the scenes clearly in my head. Of course, it depends on the parts I am trying to write, and whenever I get to filler areas, or a part in the story I don't know where I want it to go, that can take me longer to get through.

The Avid Reader: Do you have any little fuzzy friends? Like a dog or a cat? Or any pets?

Bailey Ardisone: I do! I love animals. I have a dog, her name is Nilla. And then I have 3 bunnies - Zero, Padmé, and Ollie. I absolutely love each one of them, they are like my children.

The Avid Reader: What is your "to die for", favorite food/foods to eat?

Bailey Ardisone: Portillo's Italian Beef and cheese fries!!!!!!! I can only get it back home in Chicago, and I miss it EVERY day! Omg...so yummy.

The Avid Reader: Do you have any advice for anyone that would like to be an author?

Bailey Ardisone: My advice is, write whatever it is you want to write, and don't let anyone tell you differently. Make it a priority in your life. Don't worry about pleasing everyone - because that is impossible. There WILL be people who hate whatever it is you write, but there will ALWAYS be people who fall deeply in love with it as well. You have to be able to take the good with the bad. Don't be afraid to fail, because you will only be stuck with regrets.

About the Authors:

Bailey Ardisone is a collaboration by two sisters born and raised outside Chicago, Illinois. They took the last names of their two grandmothers and combined them together to form their pen name. They both married the love of their lives and spend their days submerged in books, movies, music, or art and love traveling. Fantasy books and movies have been a huge part of their lives and are obsessed with Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien.

Sweet Oblivion is their first novel and is the first installment of a series.

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Book Blitz: Dawn of the Apocalypse by E.S.P.

Dawn of the Apocalypse

by E.S.P. 

Release Date: 08/09/13

Summary from Goodreads:

January 1, 2000.
May 21, 2011.
December 21, 2012

These are just a few of the days humans prophesied as bringing catastrophic events that would end the world. We predicted nuclear warfare. Drastic climate change. A call from God.

We were wrong.

Cue the gargoyle invasion-laboratory bred mutants designed to slaughter humans. When the government goes AWOL and gargoyles are swarming by the hundreds, it's up to the citizens of the United States to regroup and save themselves.

Meet Cliff Matthews, a teenage boy separated from his entire family with the exception of his younger sister, whom he is desperate to keep alive. Along the quest to save their lives, he encounters people who aren't all that they seem. Everyday's a battle, but if he can't trust his own species, where does that leave his family?

And we can't forget the man who may be willing to sacrifice Cliff's life, if it means world domination.

In terms of doomsday, no one could've seen this coming. The dawn of the apocalypse…

Excerpt:

Cliff jumped as an ear-shattering scream erupted from the woman behind him. He turned around. The woman's mouth was quivering, her eyes wide with terror. He followed her shaking finger. There was an arm in the middle of the street.

A real human arm, made of human flesh and bone.

Cliff tasted bile in his throat as a huge roar came from behind him. When he looked, he saw the body of the male volunteer who was just speaking before him. If it wasn't for the vest still attached to him, Cliff would've never recognized the blood drenched form bleeding on the concrete.

"Don't look, Andy." He said with a voice that threatened to crack with a scream or tears. He shielded her eyes with his hand.

"LOOK OUT!!" the women screamed again.

There was another roar. He snapped his head around. A grotesque looking animal stood behind the body of the man. It was the size of a small horse, standing on two legs, its back hunched like a bridge. The figure's skin was an olive green tone. It looked scaly, like it was dripped in oil.

And the teeth. The teeth hung from his mouth, looking as sharp as daggers. They were at least three inches long, dripping the blood of the volunteer who was just trying to help out. Another roar was heard as four more monsters joined the original one.

Another blood curdling scream rung in his ears.

The scream was his own.

About the Author

Being the daughter of an accomplished author, E.S.P. grew up listening to stories and telling her own to classmates. After writing for several years and even publishing some short works, she finally decided to take the plunge to write (plus finish!)a full length novel. Thus, Dawn of the Apocalypse was born. When she's not writing, she's either reading books, blogging at whoistheserialreader.blogspot.com, or watching eighties movies.

   

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Review: Shrouded In Illusion By H.D. Thomson

Shrouded In Illusion
Shrouded Series #3
By H.D. Thomson

Book Description:

Someone wants Skye Hunter's son and they're willing to kill her or anyone else to get to him. One the run for her life, she is forced to turn to the only person who can help her-a complete stranger with a shared past-David Bishop, a renowned illusionist.

David's life is also an illusion, built of smoke and little else. He meets Skye, a woman filled with passion and conviction, and the pain he sees in her eyes is a mirror to his own soul. But when he realizes she has the same strange, telekinetic phenomenon inside her body that he does, he is forced to question his life, his childhood and the father who raised him. Can these two lost souls uncover the mystery behind their powers and save Skye's son and themselves in the process?

My Review:

I received a free copy of the book from the author for my honest opinion.

Skye Hunter is a mother of a 9 year old son whom someone wants. Skye and her son Tyler are on the run and are hiding out. Someone wants Tyler for his special abilities. Skye took her son and went on the run having to stay in one hotel after another trying to keep her son safe after someone tried to kidnap him and for whatever reason their plan to take him backfired on them. Skye will do whatever it takes to keep her son alive and safe. She loves him more than her own life. As long as Tyler is safe that is all that Skye cares about. Her son is the only reason she fights to survive. Tyler is Skye's life and no man will come between the love that a mother has for her son. Skye meets up with a man by the name of David Bishop who may be the only person that can help her keep Tyler alive. But she may have a hard time convincing David of this fact.

Skye knows that she and David are connected in some way from their past only Skye nor David knows what that connection is. And Skye is having a hard time getting David to believe her. He thinks she is crazy until he starts to questions his father and gets the answers that Skye predicted that he would get from his father. His father is very evasive with his answers. I think that he is only trying to protect David. He loves David very much and doesn't want to see anything happen to him. But of course as it always is he doesn't have control of the situation the other guy is calling all the shots.

David and Skye after spending some time together start to have feelings for one another. Skye knows this is not a good thing and she must not let herself fall for David. David feels the say way about Skye and he also thinks that it would be the wrong thing to do; to start having feelings about this woman. He thinks he has been doing a very good job of not letting a woman work her way into his heart. But what he is experiencing with Skye has slipped up on him before he has had the opportunity to put a damper on it. And when Skye has to leave town in a hurry David starts to realize how much she means to him and wonders how he can just let her go like that but let her go he must. Will David and Skye find away to be together? Can they put aside their differences as well as their past so that they can be together?

Shrouded in Illusion is the third book in the Shrouded Series but can be read as a standalone book. Shrouded in Illusion is the first book of the series that I have read and I have had no problem figuring out what is going on. Shrouded in Illusion has a lot of twist and turns that will make you not want to lay it down but life does tend to get in the way at times. Shrounded in Illusion is one of those books that you could definitely read in one setting if life would just not get your way. The ending is one that will most certainly blow you out of the water and will not see coming. All I am going to say is that you will not ever find two people quite like David and Skye. I don't think that there is hardly any love or person that is as strong as David or Skye not especially David.

Warning: Before starting reading of this book a little advice pick up a whole box of tissue because there are a couple of scenes where you will be needing them. David and Skye will find a place in your heart and you will feel there pain as if you are right there with them and going through everything right along with them. Shrouded In Illusion is one phenomenal read! Get your copy today you will not be displeased. As a matter of fact you will probably be a little upset that you have not read it before now.

About The Author:

H.D. Thomson moved from Ontario, Canada as a teenager to the heat of Arizona where she graduated from the University of Arizona with a B.S. in Business Administration with a major in accounting. After working in the corporate world as an accountant, H.D. changed her focus to one of her passions-books. She owned and operated an online bookstore for several years and then started Bella Media Management. The company specializes in web sites, video trailers, ebook conversion and promotional resources for authors and small businesses. When she is not heading her company, she is following her first love-writing.

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Promo Blast: Phantom by Laura DeLuca

Phantom (Dark Musicals #1)
by Laura DeLuca
Young Adult Romance
Categories: Mystery/Thriller
Publisher: Pagan Writers Press
Release Date: April 11, 2012
Heat Level: Sweet
Word Count: 85,560

Available at:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords

Description:

The "Phantom" was a musical phenomenon that Rebecca had always found enchanting. She had no idea that her life was about to mirror the play that was her obsession. When her high school drama club chooses "Phantom" as their annual production, Rebecca finds herself in the middle of an unlikely love triangle and the target of a sadistic stalker who uses the lines from the play as their calling card.

Rebecca lands the lead role of Christine, the opera diva, and like her character, she is torn between her two co-stars-Tom the surfer and basketball star who plays the lovable hero, and Justyn, the strangely appealing Goth who is more than realistic in the role of the tortured artist.

Almost immediately after casting, strange things start to happen both on and off the stage. Curtains fall. Mirrors are shattered. People are hurt in true phantom style. They all seem like accidents until Rebecca receives notes and phone calls that hint at something more sinister. Is Justyn bringing to life the twisted character of the phantom? Or in real life are the roles of the hero and the villain reversed? Rebecca doesn't know who to trust, but she knows she's running out of time as she gets closer and closer to opening night. Only when the mask is stripped away, will the twenty first century phantom finally be revealed.

Excerpt:

The orchestra tuned for its virtuoso, and Justyn stood ready. But no one else was ready for the magical performance he began. Beside her, Carmen was rambling on about something mundane. Rebecca elbowed her to silence so she could listen to the perfectly thrilling tenor. As she listened to the song unfold, the world around her started to slip away. Gone was the high school auditorium. Gone were the rowdy teenagers. The Gothic stranger on the stage had become the embodiment of Erik, and Rebecca watched him in all his dark glory, belting out his tormented love through the words of his song. And she was as breathless with wonder as Christine herself must have been when the masked stranger serenaded her in the candlelit labyrinth of the opera house. In that moment, Justyn wasn't just portraying the phantom. Justyn was the phantom.

"Let the music touch your soul. Let the darkness make you whole. Do not fear what is unknown. Your true path has now been shown. Listen to the words I sing. Embrace the peace that night will bring."

As he continued to sing in his deep but somehow angelic voice, Rebecca found that she couldn't tear her eyes away from him. With every line, her heart began to beat faster. She truly felt the arms of night wrapping her in a warm embrace. She could almost feel the hands of the phantom glide along her body as the words poured forth. The music caressed her. It possessed her-mind, body and soul. Each word left her longing, yearning for more.

She was gawking so obviously, it was hardly surprising when Justyn felt her eyes on him and steadily met her gaze. She realized her mouth was hanging open in stunned awe, and she quickly snapped it shut. His lips moved into just a small hint of a smile. He never took his eyes off her while he sang the final verse, making her cheeks flush to the point that she felt almost feverish. But it wasn't embarrassment but excitement, arousal even, which was sending her mind spinning in so many directions.

When the song was over, and Rebecca had recovered just a hint of her composure, she couldn't help but burst into a healthy round of applause. A few scattered people joined in, including Debbie and Carmen after she nudged them in the ribs. But only Miss King seemed to truly appreciate the brilliance of his talent as much as Rebecca did.

"That was amazing, Justyn!" the teacher gushed.

"Lord Justyn," he corrected as he stepped down from the stage.

A few others complimented him as well, but he took in all in stride. In fact, his serious expression never faltered as he stepped down from the stage. He seemed almost bored, like it was all he could do to hold back a yawn, despite the smiles and words of encouragement.

But not everyone in the crowd was pleased as Justyn glided down the aisle, so ethereal in his dark garments that he still resonated the spirit of the Opera Ghost. Miss King might have been excited about the newest male addition to her cast after being limited for many years, but Tom and his group of boisterous companions glared at him as he passed them by. Jay sneered and tossed a balled up piece of paper in Justyn's direction, but the Goth was quick, and caught it in his hand without missing a beat.

"I think you dropped something," he said.

His speaking voice was no less melodic than his singing voice, but something about his tone made Rebecca shiver. He tossed the paper back at Jay, who was nowhere near as coordinated as Justyn. He practically fell off his seat in his efforts to catch it.

"Hey vampire," Tom called when Justyn went to walk away. "Are you sure you can handle the competition?"

Justyn smiled, a cool, sarcastic half-smile, and crossed his arms over his chest. "Are you?"

Miss King didn't notice the short confrontation, and Justyn vanished from the auditorium as quickly and mysteriously as he had appeared. Only Rebecca had noticed the very real tension between the two boys. She wondered if it was a bad omen for them to start off the production with hard feelings and envy. That could only lead to trouble. The kind of trouble that could end with someone getting hurt. The kind of trouble that Rebecca would do whatever it took to avoid.

About the Author:

Laura "Luna" DeLuca lives at the beautiful Jersey shore with her husband and four children. She loves writing in the young adult genre because it keeps her young at heart. In addition to writing fiction, Laura is also the sole author of a popular review blog called New Age Mama. She is an active member of her local pagan community, and has been studying Wicca for close to eight years. Her current works include Destiny, Destiny Unveiled, Phantom, Morrigan, Player, and Demon.

Connect with Laura DeLuca

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Book Tour: Seven Seals Series By Traci Douglass

Seal Of Surrender

Seven Seals Series: Book 2

Traci Douglass

Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy

Crimson Romance

Ebook

270 pages

72,000 words

Book Description:

Love, like War, will always find a way…

War has shaped every aspect of Irena Soldan's life-her childhood, her work, her DNA. Unaware she is the genetic host of the second Seal of the Apocalypse, Irena battles for those who cannot fight for themselves. As a top human-rights operative for The Omega Consortium, her company provides both the financial backing required to undertake her task and a charismatic, publicity-loving boss to promote her cause. Life proceeds on plan for Irena until a mysterious, sexy stranger arrives claiming to be her guardian and Irena's path takes a sudden, inauspicious turn for both the erotic and the lethal.

Chago has always been the quiet one amongst his warrior Scion brethren-the brooding, Spanish combat expert with a hidden soft side. A member of Divinity's covert special forces, he's protected humanity for more than a millennium. Still, his greatest joy comes not from the battlefield, but from tending the cattle herd on his remote Montana ranch.

Irena's new assignment takes her straight to the heart of a bloody civil conflict in Sub-Saharan Africa and Chago's mission demands he follow. Expecting a seething cauldron of female whoop-ass, he instead discovers a harbinger of peace amidst a world of ever-increasing violence. The explosively tense situation is further magnified by the cunning Omega Consortium leader, his ambiguous personal agenda, and an ancient foe whose audacious rise to power threatens the world's very existence.

Despite the cataclysmic circumstances, an undeniable attraction ignites between Chago and Irena. Together, they must unravel the ancient puzzle of the Seals and discover her employer's ulterior plans before they both become casualties of War. Soon, both are forced to choose between a past riddled with old torments or risk everything they treasure on a love capable of defeating evil incarnate.

Read my review of Seal of Surrender.

Excerpt:

Irena dropped her gaze and took a sudden interest in her shoes. Funny. She'd been asking herself the same question all night. "And Drake is not my boyfriend."

"Oh, so he's just your sex buddy then?"

"He is not my sex buddy!" Her sexual affairs were none of this man's damn business anyway. Why should he care who she slept with? Still, she couldn't seem to stop the excuses. "He was ... available."

Cringe. Her overloud pronouncement echoed through the vacant lobby. The words sounded crass, cheap. Things she'd never meant to imply. How could she tell a man she'd met only hours before about the terror of the bombing raids? About the deep, gnawing loss she'd experienced when the Burmese school had been struck by mortar fire. About the unquenchable need to reaffirm life. Those were things he couldn't possibly comprehend.

The elevator arrived and they both hustled inside. Chago reached to push the button then returned to his corner, his arms crossed and gaze averted. Irena shuffled uncomfortably in her own space and tried to pretend his presence didn't disturb the hell out of her.

"Look, I'm not easy with my affections, okay?" Shit. There went her mouth again. She didn't owe this man any explanation for her behavior. So why couldn't she stop talking? "When you've seen the things I have, you need some kind of life affirmation to keep going."

"Hmmm. Is that what they're calling it these days?"?Irena glanced up to find him focused on the ceiling. She returned to studying the carpet.?"Look. I'm a man of war. I understand the need to affirm life." Chago sighed, stepping closer to rest his hand on the wall beside her head. "But what occurred in that office was not affirming anything except the fact Drake Benedict is a supreme ... douchebag."

Her bottled-up stress erupted into a catharsis of giggles. To hear such an intimidating guy call her boss a douchebag had been the highlight of Irena's disastrous evening. His poleaxed expression only made Irena laugh harder. Soon helpless tears streamed down her cheeks. "I-I'm sorry. I can't stop thinking about the look on Drake's face when you came out of the closet. Priceless!"

He studied her for several moments before cracking a smile of his own. "You really do have shitty taste in men."

"Beware, mister." She chucked him on the arm, her giggles subsiding. "For a minute downstairs, I thought you were pretty hot too."

His gaze narrowed. "Hot?"?"Don't worry. The minute has now passed." "Maybe your taste is improving, querida."

Chago moved closer and grasped her chin, raising her gaze to his. His thumb traced over her lips and incited a tingle that nosedived straight between her legs.

Irena's pulse raced and her throat went arid. The scent of his aftershave, cassis and vanilla, surrounded her. He hovered, allowing her an opportunity to break free. When she didn't move, Chago closed the miniscule gap between them and his lips brushed softly over hers.

Seal Of Destiny

Seven Seals Series Book One

Traci Douglass

Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy

Crimson Romance

263 pages

70,000 words

Book Description:

Love conquers all… but can it stop the Apocalypse?

Mira Herald is having the worst life ever. Not only is she plagued by horrific nightmares starring the Devil himself, she's now the target of a power-hungry, rogue minion, freshly sprung from Hell and bent on her destruction. To complicate matters further, she's acquired a stalker. One who insists he's a divine warrior sent for her protection because she houses an ancient relic with the power to unleash Armageddon. Last time Mira checked, she wasn't insane. Still, all this celestial mayhem is enough to drive a girl crazy.

Kagan is a member of the Scion, an elite team of immortal warriors selected by Divinity to aid mankind and save the world. After a century alone, Kagan is summoned for a new mission. He's eager to begin. Eager until he's informed his mission consists of protecting a woman with no clue to the power she wields. Plus, his briefing fails to prepare him for his new target's cosmic-sized attitude problem. As Divinity's sworn servant, he's required to fulfill his duty. His oath, however, does not require him to be enthusiastic about his new assignment or warm-and-fuzzy toward his new compatriot. He plans a wham-bam rescue and a quick return to solitude.

The rogue minion attacks-with the backing of a mysterious organization-and all Hades erupts, putting a fast end to any whirlwind escapes. Accustomed to staunch independence, Mira's survival now requires full cooperation and an unwavering belief in Kagan. The battle-hardened warrior is also forced to chose: between duty and desire. Amidst the turmoil, Kagan and Mira's undeniable passion draws them closer to each other and down a path neither expected but both yearn for, more than they ever knew.

Will love save the day? The world's fate depends on the answer.

Read my review of Seal of Destinity.

Book Trailer for the series

Excerpt:

"Basta!" Kagan grabbed her by the arm and twisted slightly, not enough to hurt, but enough to let her know he meant business as he directed her to a corner booth. He ignored the half-full beverages and coats scattered on the seats and shoved Mira into the confined space. When the booth's original owners took issue with his hostile takeover, Kagan dispatched them with a lethal glare. He wasn't sure where the girl had gotten the idea his mind was damaged, but he was damn sure he didn't like it. He moved in behind her to block her escape.

"Oh, hell, no!" After several unsuccessful strikes to his muscled physique, Mira tried to slide out beneath the table. The angle proved too awkward. Defeated, she shoved as far away as she could into the corner and propped those killer boots on the seat in front of her in warning. "You better let me out of here, asshole, before I call the cops! I caught you stalking me, pervert!"

Kagan took a deep breath. He never lost his cool in battle, and he wasn't about to start now. "Pervert? You're of age, si?"

Mira glared. Kagan ticked through their earlier interactions, searching for a reason behind her intense hostility. His preternatural instincts sensed her intention before her hand reached his carotid. He blocked her quickly, locking her small hand within his and forcing it to the table beneath his own. Her pulse raced against his palm. He took another swig of beer then flashed his most endearing grin. "Let's start over." He released his bottle and extended his hand. "I'm Kagan."

She refused to acquiesce. Kagan spoke in quiet tones meant to calm, to reassure. "I know I'm a stranger, but we have things to discuss." He glanced around the crowded club, at the bodies packed tight. "We can't do it here, though-no privacy. My apartment is close. Why don't we go there and talk?"

Mira kicked him hard in the thigh.

"Merda!" Kagan grabbed his throbbing leg. "What's in those damn boots? Marble?"

"Let me out of here, jackass, before I sideline your baby-maker!" Mira struggled within the tight confines of the booth. As she squirmed, the spicy scent of her shampoo wafted, and he was overcome with the strangest urge to plunge his hands into the riotous mass of her hair, to feel it curl around his fingers. She tugged on the hand pinned beneath his, and his thumb traced over her thudding veins. His heart pounding along with hers. The odd tingle sped through his torso, and his mouth turned to cotton. Her gaze blazed up at him, a swirling mix of green and golden brown. He noted the dark smudges below and wondered what kept her from slumber.

Dolce Cristo! Kagan looked away, fought for control. This was getting way out of hand. He couldn't remember the last time he'd bedded a woman, but apparently it had been far too long.

Guest Post:

SNEAK PEEK OF SEAL OF AWAKENING:

With the Fall 2013 release of the third Seal book, SEAL OF AWAKENING, fast approaching many readers have asked to spill at least a few juicy details. So today folks, you're in luck!

Here's your first glimpse at the blurb for SEAL OF AWAKENING, SEVEN SEALS SERIES: BOOK THREE:

Embrace the geek, save the world…

Socially awkward geneticist Quinn Strickland has willingly forgone the normal pleasures in life to reach her career objectives. Alone and approaching thirty, she uses her independence to mitigate any risk of a broken heart. Her strategy works until the day a handsome stranger bursts into her lab claiming to be her new assistant and her orderly plans shoot straight to Hades when the stubborn idiot refuses to be put off by any of her usual defenses. To make matters worse, he claims to be her personal divine protector, a powerful, ancient warrior sent to defend a prophetic time bomb existing within her own genetic code. Yet despite the crazy circumstances and her staunch denials, Quinn finds herself torn between the logic of her theories and the startling strength of her emotions for this enigmatic man.

The Scion's reigning technology guru, alpha-geek Wyck is offered the opportunity of his immortal lifetime as head of his own covert operation, with the added bonus of mounting a cyber attack on his ancient enemy. He arrives at the Colorado lab expecting starched white coats and sterile surroundings-not a redheaded spitfire in charge of both his project and his libido. His skills have carried him from the battlefields of ancient England to the pits of Hell and he has no plans to be felled by one woman, regardless of her shag-worthy charms. Divine duty requires him to protect the apocalyptic Seal encrypted within Quinn's DNA, but his heart has other ideas. When his personal feelings interfere with his age-old vendetta, he's forced to decide between desire and retribution.

With the world's future at stake, can Quinn and Wyck trust their hearts to solve this tricky equation or will their past hurts and fierce ambitions destroy any hope for a brilliant future?

Sound interesting?

Be sure to follow me on my website, Facebook and Twitter for release information, cover reveals, and exciting contest announcements! :

About the Author:

Traci is the author of paranormal/urban fantasy and contemporary romances featuring a sly, urban edge, including her current Seven Seals series. Her stories feature sizzling alpha-male heroes full of dark humor, quick wits and major attitudes; smart, independent heroines who always give as good as they get; and scrumptiously evil villains who are-more often than not-bent on world destruction. She enjoys weaving ancient curses and mythology, modern science and old religion, and great dialogue together to build red-hot, sizzling chemistry between her main characters.

A storyteller since childhood, she began putting her tales down on paper in November 2011 after the idea for the Seven Seals Series occurred to her in a dream. She finished the first draft of what was to become Seal of Destiny in one month and decided to pursue a full-time writing career in January of 2012. Life has now been a rollercoaster, crash course in pursuing your dreams.

Traci is an active member of Romance Writers of America (RWA), Indiana Romance Writers of America (IRWA) and Fantasy, Futuristic & Paranormal Writers (FF&P) and is pursing a Masters of Fine Arts degree in Writing Popular Fiction through Seton Hill University. Her stories have made the final rounds in several RWA chapter contests, including the 2012 Duel on the Delta, the 2012 Molly Awards, and the 2012 Catherine Awards. An earlier draft of Seal of Destiny won the paranormal category of the 2012 Marlene Awards sponsored by the Washington Romance Writers.

Other current projects include upcoming books in the Seven Seals series and a new futuristic detective series with hints of the paranormal and plenty of romance.

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Giveaway:

One signed paperback copy of Seal Of Destiny -open to US Shipping.

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Spotlight: Stolen Moments By Tara Mills

Stolen Moments
by Tara Mills

Cover made
by Nekkid Designs

Blurb:

Ella knew what Neil wanted when he called, what they both wanted. Did she dare? Was an hour of passion worth the lies, broken commitments, and the risk of getting caught? Yes.

Excerpt:

Acutely aware she was the only woman in the place, she felt every set of eyes track her walk through the bar. Leaving several stools between herself and the next patron, she hung her purse off the back and used the rung under the chair to hop up onto the elevated seat. The bartender sauntered her way and Ella made her hushed request, "White wine, please."

He had to uncork a new bottle but she was relieved to see it was a decent California label.

Now she waited, sipping her wine. The negligible amount of calm she'd possessed when she walked in here faded with a self-conscious whimper. She glanced at the door then at her phone once again, checking the time and warring with herself about calling him. The more uncomfortable she got, the more she kicked her toe against the foot rail. Unfortunately, the sound drew the attention of a couple of patrons as well as the bartender. She hooked her heel over the stool support below. It was the only way to keep from fidgeting.

Ella felt exposed and out of her element sitting in a place like this, nice as it was, at two o'clock on a weekday afternoon. She wanted to fold herself up small enough to hide out in her purse, but that wasn't going to happen. The minutes stretched on and her anxiety over being approached by one of these men increased. She sent out a silent mental message to those in the room. Just leave me alone. Ignore me. I'm not here.

A subtle brush, very faint across her back, made her turn. The warm body and even warmer smile on the handsome face gazing down on her caused Ella's heart to start beating in double time. She breathed a big sigh of relief.

Neil looked too good for words.

He casually drew his hand over the back of her chair, his finger teasing her as it skimmed across her shoulder blades. His smile deepened when she let out a soft, involuntary moan.

"I hoped you'd come. You look beautiful, Ella." He slid onto the stool next to her.

She felt the heat of her blush, the pounding of her heart. "You know I can't stay long. I shouldn't have come in the first place. Neither should you. What are we doing? If anyone sees me I don't how I could possibly explain this."

"I understand your fear." He covered her hand and gave it a squeeze. "We'll be careful. You need to trust me. Try to relax."

"I'm trying. I am. It's just ... the more we do this, the more chances we take that someone is going to find out."

She looked down at Neil's hand, conscious of the weight, the strength in it resting over her own. Oh god, she was going to waver. She knew she would. She always did-but only for him. All he had to do was ask.

Then it came, his low, seductive invitation. "Stay with me, please? Give me an hour."

About the Author:

I write stories I like to read--contemporary romances with identifiable characters and themes. Life is hard. Love makes it bearable. If you enjoy stories with heat and humor, I have a title for you.

I'm a pampered wife, lucky mom to three amazing sons and one wonderful daughter-in-law, and I recently became a very young grandma. I should probably underline the word very. Oh heck, why not the word young too? Nah, you get the picture. I'm also the daily monitor of one naughty dog with attitude.

Author Links:

Join Tara Mills on August 24th at 8PM EST at Crimson Frost Books Discussion Group on

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Cover Reveal: Haunting By B.J. Sheldon

Book Info-

Title-Haunting

Series- The Dusty Chronicles Book # 1

By- B.J. Sheldon

Genre- YA Paranormal

Published- April 29th, 2013

Published By- Wandering in the Words Press

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