Once Upon A Series...

ANCIENT ENEMY SERIES - Romantic action Science Fiction - by Vijaya Schartz

2012-02-24T10:32:00.001-08:00

Find Vijaya's eBooks at AMAZON.COM - B&N - ARe - SMASHWORDS

BOOK ONE - ANAZ-VOOHRI

The Anaz-voohri have returned from the stars after eight hundred years, to claim the planet of their ancestors... a blue orb named Earth. Since he witnessed the abduction of his baby sister by an alien creature, Zack will stop at nothing to rescue her, even if it means joining the Special Forces. But Tia Vargas, the reckless Amazon training the secret unit for a highly classified mission, has no use for this handsome, rebellious recruit, at least not on the battlefield, until Zack’s farfetched stories prove to be true, and tragedy strikes...

Reviews:

"an epic novel of enduring love despite Herculean obstacles and extraterrestrial intrigues. I was caught up from the first sentence... I adored this book." 5 cups rating Kathy - Coffee Time Romance

"Fast paced with just the right amount of action... The romance between Zack and Tia was very realistic... I couldn’t put the book down until I finished it... very memorable." Five angels rating -Teresa, Fallen Angel Reviews

"a fantastic futuristic science fiction adventure... the evil Captain Kavak certainly ranks as one of the worst villains ever encountered! ...the romantic element is intertwined in the storyline. ...a book that is definitely out-of-this-world!" 4.5 rating - Debbie, ck2skwips&Kritiques

"This one will keep you wondering till the end of the book... so good, you can easily see the scenes in your head" 4-stars rating - Ann Beardsly, Scribes World

"Engrossing... a lot of action... good character development... Anaz-voohri is excellent."
Kate Cuthbert - All About Romance

"Ms. Schartz offers her readers an enthralling story. Zack is a charming, headstrong, and determined character, the likes of which anyone would be pleased to call friend... a definite must read " Gina - Love Romances - four hearts rating

"...engrossing tale of the fight against an alien race determined to have the planet Earth for themselves. Full of secrets, ambitions and political machinations, ANAZ-VOOHRI keeps the reader on her toes..." - Shaiha - Love Romances

"...well-written characters ...bad-guy aliens intent on destroying humanity...romance, adventure and plenty of futuristic shoot-'em-up action." Karen Sweeny-Justice - Romantic Times Magazine

BOOK TWO - RELICS

The year is 2023, and an alien invader has infiltrated the human race.

In a dangerous future threatened by aliens and infiltrated by hybrids, archeologist Celene Dupres witnesses her father's murder. Vowing to avenge him and retrieve his precious alien relics, she finds the perfect ally and protector. But the man she trusts, the man with whom she is falling in love, is the secret agent sent to kill her. Kin, however is more than a killing machine. Despite his love for Celene, can he accomplish his gruesome mission, and save humanity from the threat embedded in her DNA?

"RELICS is an intense thrill ride of a futuristic romance; I highly recommend it." Marlene Breakfield - Paranormal Romance

"...an intriguing romance... all the staples of a good science fiction story." - Romantic Times

" ...will keep you captivated from beginning to end." - Gina - Love Romances - 5-hearts

"I consider this to be among the best reads of the year!" - Johnna - Fallen Angel Reviews - 5 angels

BOOK THREE - KICKING BOTS

Dr. Melissa Campbell, researcher at the San Francisco Center for Disease Control, requests help to protect her precious vaccine, one that could end the deadly alien plague. She didn't expect a crazy renegade like Bennett for a bodyguard. She hates military types, and this genetically enhanced super-soldier is pure testosterone, hot-headed, quick-tempered, impulsive, and downright impossible. But these are dangerous times with riots in the streets, and rumors of alien invasion. In a breathless race against time, experience the decisive battle for humankind, one that will decide whether Earth belongs to humanity, or to a powerful alien race...

Reviews:

"Begins with a bang and keeps the fireworks coming. As much as Melissa and Bennett try to fight their feelings for each other, it is too strong for them to deny... but he cannot let that prevent him from doing his job.... Can they override their programming in time to save the human race? - Sensual Reads - 4.5 stars - Sultry

"...Bennett. Sexy, balls to the walls Bennett. Ladies man, his own military militia and a devilish sense of humor. A sensational and fantastical alternate universe, painted and laid out for me with every wondrous word. I really enjoyed being taken away into the lives of the characters as they wove their way through imminent death, every lie and betrayal, every scary new path on their journey to get to the truth and save the world as they know it." Book Junkie - 4 stars

"I really enjoyed this book. Even though I hadn't read the previous two... I have always been interested in the mysterious disappearance of the Anasazi and this story nicely filled in the blanks... exceptionally well written. I am definitely going to have to find the previous books and check them out as well." - The Romance Studio - 5 hearts - rated very sensual

Vijaya Schartz
Blasters, Guns, Swords, Romance with a kick
http://www.vijayaschartz.com/

Vijaya's books at Amazon.com:
https://www.amazon.com/author/vijayaschartz

Vijaya's eBooks at ARe:
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/storeSearch.html?searchBy=author&qString=Vijaya+Schartz

Vijaya's nooks at:
http://productsearch.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?WRD=vijaya+schartz&STORE=EBOOK&SZE=100&SRT=SA

Vijaya's books at Smashwords:
https://www.smashwords.com/books/search?query=Schartz

Mercies In Disguise is HERE!

2012-02-15T04:53:00.000-08:00

Purchase Link:
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-262/The-Roarin%27-Twenties-Book/Detail.bok
(Also available at Amazon, B&N, and other e-book retailers.)

--
A behind the scene look at The Roarin' Twenties Series ~

I have to let you in on a secret... I've been having a blast with this project! I'm thrilled at the release of the second book in this series, Mercies In Disguise. I think what has made this particular book so special to me is the setting. You see the Pine Barrens of New Jersey was where I grew up.

I love the woods. I realize some city folks would get nervous following a seemingly never-ending dirt path, where every tree looks the same – tall and scrawny—but it's home to me. I've learned many lessons in the pines, but I think the most important is "looks can be deceiving." Now, I must admit, scrub pine trees aren't the most attractive trees in the world. In fact, they look as if a good wind could knock them over. However, it isn't what you see on the outside that's most important. Rather, it's what you can't see – their complex root system – which is crucial to not only their survival, but their ability to thrive.

The soil in this neck of the woods is pure sand. It gets very dry and fires can wipe out acres upon acres in mere hours. But these hardy little pines have an amazing resilience. It's all because of their roots. They get burned, totally scorched and you'd think nothing could ever grow back, but wait even just a few weeks and before you know it, little shoots are sprouting back up. Within a few years, you can't even tell there had been a fire. What an awesome object lesson God blessed me with in my own backyard!

We see this same kind of strength through the main character, Abigail, in this story. In the midst of disappointments, storms life sends her way, and the fears she needs to face, her "roots" in Christ keeps her grounded. I hope her story (as well has her hero's) will be an encouragement to you. No matter what you may be facing today, if your "roots" are grounded in Christ, He'll see you through.

Blessings, my friends! Until next time~
JoAnn

The Roarin' Twenties

2012-02-14T04:50:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is the day! BOOK TWO: Mercies in Disguise will release. Here's a bit about this Historical/Inspirational Romance. Tomorrow I'll stop back by with a fun tidbit.

AVAILABLE - February 15, 2012

Abigail Madison, a gentle quiet spirit, has always dreamed of a life away from her mother’s controlling ways. Even more than that, she’s dreamed of finding someone with whom she could share her life with. However, her shyness is often taken as aloofness and no marital prospects were anywhere to be found. What was to become of her hopes?

Stanley Fisher, the Steamboat pilot of the Ticonderoga, was drafted and fought in World War I. The experiences he lived though on the battlefield left him wounded -- but not in a way that the naked eye could see. Yet, when he meets Abigail, he yearns for a love like his best friend and Captain of the Ti, Philip found in Ellie. However, with his recurring nightmares from war, what does he have to offer to this special woman?

EXCERPT

Abigail's dark hair hung to her shoulders, framing her fair face in shiny curls and her green eyes sparkled when he asked if he could take her bag. A slight blush colored her high cheekbones. He was in trouble -- deep trouble. She was every bit as beautiful in person as she was in the photograph Ellie had given him earlier today when she asked him to pick up her friend at the train station. Like a magnet, the picture had held him captive. And now that he saw her in person... he gulped. As his fellow bell bottoms would say, she was a doll. And although she was very quiet, the longer they talked he couldn't help but notice her beautiful, expressive eyes. They held a sort of tempered peace, or perhaps it was contentment, which he found completely unattainable.

Never before had he been so enamored, nor had he ever had as much reason to keep far away from that allure. He needed to stay strong. The serenity in her eyes would vanish if she knew the sorrow buried within his heart and how it affected him. Granted, his war wounds didn't leave any scars on the outside, but they were too numerous to count on the inside.

Lord, help me overcome the past.

He took a deep breath and stepped back, widening the space between them. If he could just turn off his thoughts and stop dwelling on his recurring nightmares, he'd be great.

Time.

He was sure that's all it would take... time to put his experiences behind him. Meanwhile, he had God, work, friends, and most importantly, the determination to make it through -- somehow, someway -- without being a total killjoy and dragging a beautiful woman into the mess of his life.

Abigail finished the letter, tucked it into her handbag, and gazed trustingly into his eyes. "Will you please take me to the steamboat now?"

Stanley nodded and offered her his elbow. "I'd love to." To fill the time and keep his mind off her tiny hand warming not only his arm, but also a place in his heart, he asked, "Have you been on board the Ti before?"

Abigail nodded. "A time or two. My family and I once resided here in Vermont."

"Ah, so that's where you know Ellie from."

"Yes. We've been best friends since grade school."

--
If you haven't had the chance to read BOOK ONE: The Floating Palace, it is 20% off the retail price this week at CBD~
http://www.christianbook.com/roarin-twenties-book-floating-palace-ebook/joann-carter/9781612520605/pd/24489EB?item_code=WW&netp_id=979795&event=ESRCG&view=details
(Also available at Amazon, B&N, Desert Beeze Publishing and other e-book retailers.)

Sneak Pique -- When Shadows Fall-- Shadow Series

2012-02-05T22:00:00.000-08:00

Coming June 2012 the first book in my Shadow Series -- When Shadows Fall.

Matthew's voice was soft, and appealing. Too appealing. Rebekah decided to go in. His closeness, and the warmth radiating from his body, caused her heart to thrum.

Robert had been gone, and thought dead for over a year. How easy it would be to fall into Matthew's arms. Let him comfort her like he'd done when she was a girl. They seemed like such strong arms. But she wasn't a child anymore. She was a married woman with a child and a sick husband who needed her.

Her first love could be nothing more than a precious memory. Her heart grew heavy. She turned and was about to take her leave when Matthew asked about Robert. "If you'd rather not talk about it, I'll understand. I only wanted you to know if you need anything, I'm here for you. I'll help in any way I can."

"That's very kind. Things are okay for now. Besides, I couldn't expect you to help the enemy." She stood still, afraid to face him. Afraid of the concern he'd show.

"Rebekah, if you love him, and he cares for you, he's no enemy of mine," his reply was tender. He caught her shoulders, turned her to face him. "I mean that with all my heart."

Rebekah nodded. He meant it. Her eyes misted. Her tears were building. If she fell into his arm, it was wrong to even think it, but… would he hold her close? Or had time changed everything? Still, she wasn't his to hold anymore. In reality she never had been, though she wanted to be. Did he wish it were different? She wished they could go back, but they couldn't. She had to accept the fact that she would never be his, and be grateful for the chance to see him again.

"I should go. Can I walk you to the house?"

Raising her head, she found his eyes in the moonlight. "You go on. It's such a lovely evening I think I'd like to stay longer. I'll look for you tomorrow."

"Goodnight then." Her heart lurched as she considered him leaving. She wondered when he'd have to say goodbye. Perhaps for forever.

"Goodnight," she whispered as she watched him cross the yard to his horse and swing his tall body effortlessly into the saddle.

"Goodnight," he called again. She waved, and watched him disappear into the darkness -- melding with the shadows on the road.

When Shadows Fall will be available June 2012.

In the Manor of the Ghost and Touched By Mercy are both available through Desert Breeze Publishing.

EXCERPT

Something was burning.

The wagon raced down the road. It stopped right on her front step and was soon surrounded by a clamor of people. A chill snaking her skin, Kaitlin hiked her gown and broke into a run.

*****

Kaitlin slipped past the barricades and pushed through the crowds. Heavy smoke made it hard to catch her breath. Nothing could stop her scream when she saw her apartment building engulfed in flames.

She scanned the lines of blackened faces. Her family wasn't there. Her gaze was drawn to the building, to the raging mingling of fire and life. Kaitlin prayed her family would come out. No one exited -- the agony of her thoughts cut her like a well-sharpened saber. Looking up, her thoughts became flesh.

Jean Marc stood in the upstairs window holding a bundle. Kaitlin knew, with another slice to her soul, the bundle was Simone. Jean Marc, so quiet, protective, so uneasily riled, yelled. Tormented wails for help rose along with tears of anguish and fear as angry flames licked out behind him.

The knife in Kaitlin's gut pushed through and slit her spine, filleting with cold precision. Pandemonium reigned around her where men held out their arms, coats, and blankets, and yelled for those Kaitlin loved to jump.

Across the space of the yard, over the din of bells, the cries of man and beast, over the conflagration -- eternity settling between them -- she caught her beloved's eyes. She couldn't read them. Perhaps she could, but couldn't bear to hear the message. Jump, she bade him. He remained at the third floor window, their daughter pressed to his chest. A sparkle of flame in his tear filled eyes, spoke of things to come and time froze. She closed her eyes for a brief moment to dam the tears and looked up to find him gone.

No one had jumped.

Spurred by inner wells of terror, Kaitlin raced for the doors. She groped for the handle, ignoring the pain. The timbers that secured the awning crashed, splinters of flame flickered like fireflies around her head, and fell to her skirts like droplets of orange rain. She stopped momentarily to brush her skirts and continued passed the obstacle. Moving on, ignoring the rush of heat, she screamed for her husband, her child. Her legs ignited with heat, her lungs burned with the smell of seared flesh. She pushed on through the maze of lashing flames, ignoring the screams behind her.

Kaitlin was pulled to an abrupt stop before she could cross the threshold. She fought for release so she could join her family -- in death. She was dragged from the building, thrown to the ground and rolled into the dirt.

Afraid to look at the window and have her fears justified, she closed her eyes against the burning tears. Unaware, as she succumbed to the blackness, whether it was her voice she heard screaming so loudly, so pathetically, or the haunting cries of her husband and child, calling for salvation.

EXCERPT

"What did you think of the sermon, Samantha?"

Sam thought she'd choke on her cherry pie right there. And practically did.

"Here now." The reverend laughed as he patted her back. "Did we find a pit or was the sermon that bad?"

Visiting with a reverend was bad enough, but a reverend with humor. Sam started to choke all over again. She waved her hand in front of her face to circulate the air and gulped a deep breath. Then if her teary eyes and choking weren't enough, she had to go and snort on her exhale. Not some delicate little snort either -- no, it was a full-bodied thing. She sounded like her stepfather's grand sow. Her skin warmed. Soon she would even be as pink as the pig.

It was a disaster, unavoidable, but a disaster nonetheless. She'd never get another invite. Groaning softly, Sam put her head in her hands until she could breathe again. It'd be easier if the good reverend would quit patting her back, disrupting her heartbeat. But how did one tell a reverend to stop?

"Are you all right?" Ruth asked.

"Yes, yes." Sam surfaced, her face on fire. Reverend Trent's hand lifted from her back. "It went down the wrong pipe," she replied meekly.

"Are you sure you're all right?" the reverend asked. He handed her his napkin. Sam used it as a shield to compose behind. "It hurts something fierce when it does that," he added sympathetically.

Sam dabbed her watery eyes so she wouldn't have to look at him. 'Cause the preacher man's smile was soft, beguiling.

THE ARCHANGEL SERIES - by Vijaya Schartz

2012-01-30T11:46:00.000-08:00

This is the kind of archangel you can relate to. Remember Michael, the movie? Well, this archangel is not as wicked but just as bad. On a modern backdrop, see what might be happening behind the scenes, as good and evil battle among us.

CRUSADER - Archangel Book One - by Vijaya Schartz
Published by Books We Love Ltd.

Michael Tanner, proud, brash, irreverent, half Native American, and single father, doesn't believe in aliens. When a Blue Angel claims to have fathered him, Michael knows his drinking has gone haywire... But a seductive Prince of Darkness born of a nightmare now targets Michael’s family. When his girlfriend disappears and characters from his dreams suddenly materialize to threaten his daughter, Michael must come out of denial and overcome his weaknesses, to face the unbelievable mystery of his birth and fulfill his unique destiny.

"...engaging and fast-paced... a harmonious mix of enticing story... where real people do extraordinary things... humorous and hopeful... fluid and entertaining... quick and often droll dialogue... a marvelous tale of good and evil..." The Charlotte Austin Review

"...Lavishly described, expertly written with stirring descriptions that take one's breath away. Author Schartz has written a solidly absorbing, old-fashioned science fiction novel of good and evil, yes and no, the one and the many." - The Book Reader

"...relationships, angels, aliens and seduction... even Satanism... kept this reviewer riveted... compelling fantasy... you won't want to put it down... superior... enthralls, and, at the same time, awakens!" - Metaphysical Reviews

"A mighty fine tale primed to read through in one sitting." - Curled Up With a Good Book.

CHECKMATE - Archangel Book Two - by Vijaya Schartz
from Books We Love Ltd.

To quench his vengeful lust for the Archangel who scattered his remains at the edge of the universe, the Reptilian ruler orders the sacrificial death of Michael's teenage daughter. Half human and a full-fledged Archangel on his father's home world, Michael and his mate must return to Earth to save his daughter from fiendish claws, and his native planet from enslavement or worse... But the way home is fraught with dangers, some more insidious than others. Nothing prepared Michael for the kind of trial he must face, when his rambunctious past catches up with him at the worst possible time...

REVIEWS:

"Sword-and-shield adventure... aliens and angels and dreams truer than life and depraved shapeshifters and evil sorcerers and parallel universes... Funny and sad and very intelligent." - The Book Reader

"Wickedly insightful. Grab this today along with the prequel, Archangel Crusader." - Five stars - Curled up With a Good Book

"...charm that keeps you reading... A fun piece of escapism... hours of sheer entertainment." - Rapport Magazine

"You will be hooked... a good read from start to finish." - Alan Caruba - BookViews

"Rollicks right along at a good clip... a fun concoction and a fast, zippy read... Really, this one is among the most pleasurable." - Writer’s Digest

Find these books in kindle on Amazon at:

https://www.amazon.com/author/vijayaschartz

Vijaya Schartz
Blasters, Guns, Swords, Romance with a kick
http://www.vijayaschartz.com/

Vijaya's books at Amazon.com:
https://www.amazon.com/author/vijayaschartz

Vijaya's eBooks at ARe:
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/storeSearch.html?searchBy=author&qString=Vijaya+Schartz

Vijaya's nooks at:
http://productsearch.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?WRD=vijaya+schartz&STORE=EBOOK&SZE=100&SRT=SA

Vijaya's books at Smashwords:
https://www.smashwords.com/books/search?query=Schartz

Lois Greiman ~ Free Amazon Gift Card

2012-01-11T09:18:00.000-08:00

This is how I envision Lieutenant Jack Rivera, the male protagonist of my latest mystery series.

And here are a few guys that readers have mentioned they think he looks like:

But I'm wondering, when you read, how clearly do you see the characters? Are they just a vague concept in your mind or are they as clear as vodka? If the plot is strong and gripping does it matter? Do you like to see the characters portrayed on the cover of the novel or does that just mess up your internal images of them?

I''ve recently published my 7th Chrissy McMullen mystery myself. And I'm wondering if readers see the characters like I do.

Here's a little information if you're not familiar with the series:

The Chrissy mysteries are about Christina McMullen, cocktail waitress turned shrink and her continuing relationship/battle with Lieutenant Jack Rivera, L.A.’s most sex-itating cop.
Rivera is in his late thirties. He’s Cherokee and Spanish, has a couple of moldering skeletons in his closet and is L.A.P.D. down to his short hairs. He’s divorced from a woman who was way too sweet for him, (unlike the smart-mouthed Christina) has a soft spot for his Mama and his dog, is smoking hot, and stab-in-the-eye exasperating.

The first 6 books were published by Random House so they designed the covers, but now that I've decided to orchestrate the 7th novel on my own the job of...well...everything...has fallen on my shoulders.

Here's the cover I'm currently using, but in this new techno world everything is so flexible. I could fairly easily change the cover at any moment. So what do you think, should I try to depict Chrissy and Jack on the cover or do I keep with the type of images Random House created for my books?

I'm giving away an Amazon gift card to one appreciated commenter.

www.loisgreiman.com
follow me on twitter at loisgreiman
facebook: chrissymcmullenmysteries

Spend the New Year on the Borealis Space Station! with Vijaya Schartz

2011-12-29T01:00:00.000-08:00

None of these boring New Year parties for sci-fi romance fans. This is the true item, the Borealis Space Station. In this decrepit tin bucket at the fringe of conquered space, in the twenty-seventh century, things are not as rosy as in the other space stations we are familiar with. This is not Babylon Five, far from it.

The station is old and falling apart. It's a penitenciary for the most dangerous intergalactic criminals. It's hazardous to your health, ruled by a dictatorial Trans Planetary Protectorate, and there is a rebellion brewing in the neighborhood.

Reading this series is like watching episodes of your favorite TV sci-fi flicks, but with a love story in each of them. All the books have the same type of covers. The first two books are anthologies containing three stories. The last two are individual novellas, from Vijaya Schartz and Michelle Levigne. This series was initiated by the publisher, Desert Breeze Publishing

Here is the order of the entire series, although each story is independent of the others (like in most sci-fi series episodes).

BOREALIS: A SPACE ANTHOLOGY - PI Barrington, J.Morgan, Gail R. Delaney
BOREALIS II: A SPACE ANTHOLOGY - Stephanie Burkhart, Esther Mitchell, Shea McMaster
BOREALIS: BLACK DRAGON - Vijaya Schartz
BOREALIS: THAT SYNCING FEELING - Michelle Levigne

BLACK DRAGON is a novella, like all the novellas from different authors in this series, the story is set on the Borealis space station.
BLACK DRAGON:

A gambler is cheating in a den of the Borealis space station, and Lieutenant Zara Frankel intends to catch him in the act. She always gets her man, but this one could prove more than she can handle.

Captain Czerno Drake, code name Black Dragon, has come under cover to break his innocent uncle from the most secure penitentiary in the galaxy, on the Borealis space station. He will stop at nothing to succeed, even enrolling the help of the lovely straight arrow TPP enforcer. When Zara realizes that she’s been used by a shrewd but seductive rebel, her reaction surprises everyone, most of all herself.

REVIEWS:

"I like the balance of humor and danger in this story, and the action kept me glued to the pages... I enjoyed watching as suspicion turned to admiration, and admiration became the first flickers of love between Czerno and Zara... Pick up a copy of Borealis: Black Dragon, by Vijaya Schartz, and enter a world of adventure, romance, and a spoiled cat named Marshmallow." Long And Short Reviews 4½ books - sensual 4½ books - sensual

"Vijaya Schartz is known for her strong female characters and Zara is no exception... gives the reader lots of action and a sweet love story." Single Titles Review - 4½ stars

This novella is only $2.99 everywhere in eBooks. Download it today from:

DESERT BREEZE - AMAZON KINDLE - B&N NOOK - ARe

Wishing you a fantastic year in 2012 and beyond.

Vijaya Schartz

Blasters, Guns, Swords, Cats, Romance with a Kick

http://www.vijayaschartz.com/

Find Vijayas other books on
AMAZON - B&N - ARe - etc.

Video Trailers!

2011-12-19T13:39:00.000-08:00

"Loving the Norseman" - a post-plague romance!

"Loving the Knight" - the story continues...

The Windsor Diaries - Book 1 - Victorian Scoundrel

2011-12-06T13:11:00.000-08:00

REVIEWS: Reader's Favorites: 5 Stars, Molly E: She grips the reader instantly, and keeps them hooked until the last page... I highly recommend this with highest of 5 stars, and I can't wait until the second Windsor Diaries installment releases!

Pen & Muse Reviews: A wonderful historical, paranormal steampunk read this was. The author really had me hooked from the first chapter... I loved the humor in this read along with the historical facts.

Long & Short Reviews, 4 Books, Larkspur: It’s the perfect romance if you love the proper etiquette of the Victorian era mixed with the fantasy of time travel. This is the first in this new series and I’m excited to read the next episode."

Scorching Hot Reviews: 4 Stars:
Overall, a fun and breezy read that really doesn’t take itself seriously. With sweet and funny characters, the tale was enjoyable and engaging. A fantastic edition to the steam-punk genre....bring on book two :)"

Hope Chest Reviews: 4.5 Stars:
Victorian Scoundrel was a nice easy read, but sometimes that's just what the doctor ordered. The pacing was pretty snappy with the plot moving right along, while the dialog was sharp and sometimes witty

BLURB: It's 2011 and compressed natural gas has taken over form the coal producing steam machines of the Victorian Age. Alice Windsor, Princess of York, follows her mischief-making cousin, Prince Edmund of Wales back to the past and 1851 where Prince Albert is hosting Britain's Great Exhibition.   Alice soon discovers Edmund has struck up a friendship with their great-grandfather, Prince Albert, and his mischief making entails leaving a dinosaur-sized footprint in history.

She also meets Grayson Kentfield, Earl Swinton, and the Prime Minister, Sir John Russell. The Prime Minster finds her odd, to say the least.  It's only when Alice falls for the handsome Earl Swinton does she realize the dangers of time travel. How can she give her heart to a man from the past while striving to stop Edmund from changing time with his forward thinking ideas?

BOOK TRAILER: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7IUYj2d7ZeY

ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:

Tired and thirsty, she finally made it to the courtyard. Edmund was nowhere to be found. She should have expected it, really. No doubt he was in the palace filling their great-grandfather's head with forward-thinking ideas. She crossed her arms, staring at the steps.

Several carriages waited nearby. No one in their right mind would let her into the palace looking like she did -- like she had just stepped out of the gutter.   "Excuse me, who are you?"

  Alice spun around to find herself face-to-face with two gentlemen who stood near one of the waiting carriages. One gentleman was older, Alice guessed in his fifties, one younger. The older gentleman stared at her like she truly was a guttersnipe, but the younger one -- he was tall, with chiseled cheeks and sensitive hazel eyes. His broad chest filled his suit well and he measured her with a cool, appraising look that hinted at... appreciation. An uncomfortable feeling washed over her. Never had a man's stare made her feel so... warm.
  
"Well?" asked the older gentleman.   

Alice straightened her posture with her usual royal dignity and took off her glasses as she always did when she introduced herself. "I am Her Royal Highness, Princess Alice of York."

  The men looked at each other, at her, then back at themselves. She wasn't sure if they were befuddled, confused, or wanted to laugh. Finally, the older gentleman spoke. "Princess Alice is seven years old."

  Alice bit the inside of her lip, realizing she had totally forgotten where she was due to the younger gentleman's attention. She slid her glasses back on. "Simply call me Alice -- Alice Windsor."

  "And you may call me Prime Minister."

BUY LINKS:
AMAZON KINDLE: http://www.amazon.com/Windsor-Diaries-Book-One-ebook/dp/B0058UG9Q6/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1316808713&sr=1-1

BARNES & NOBLE NOOK:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-windsor-diaries-book-one-stephanie-burkhart/1104099940?ean=2940012813824&itm=1&usri=victorian%2bscoundrel

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"A GENTLEMAN AND A ROGUE," Book 2 of The Windsor Diaries will be released NOV 2012.

KINGDOM OF ARNHEM - fantasy romance with knights, romance, magic, and war

2011-12-05T07:30:00.000-08:00

Book I - WOMAN OF HONOR

Reviews:

Nicole Zoltack provides a well crafted story that focuses on emotion and anticipation. Not only a book that a young adult would enjoy, but a woman of any age who wants to enjoy romance and a strong heroine and how she gained her strength. Em Epe - Dark Diva Reviews

With sword fights, passionate love, mythical creatures, and courtly games, Woman of Honor is my kind of book... Blending history with fiction, her writing is full of plot and adventure and her characters are strong and believable....In conclusion, I thoroughly recommend this book for everyone that enjoys fantasy, romance and adventure! Book Reviews by Aubrie

"Full of action and adventure, Ms Zoltak has created a wonderful tale which keeps the pages turning right up until the heart stopping conclusion and leaves the reader wanting more." Happily Ever After Reviews

Blurb:

Aislinn of Bairbhe dreams of becoming a lady knight to honor the death of her fallen brother. To her mother's horror, King Patrick grants Aislinn's wish and she begins her long years of training.

Despite the mockery of the other pages, and the disdain of Prince Caelan who also trains to be a knight, Aislinn commits herself to her dreams and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and bravery. Through the years, Aislinn and Caelan grow from sparring classmates to good friends. They both know that someday Caelan will marry for the sake of the kingdom, but even that cannot keep them from falling in love.

The threat of war with the Speicans is a constant threat, and one that grows more frightening as she and Caelan train toward their eventual knighthood. Aislinn has committed herself to serving Arnhem, and has promised herself as King's Champion when Caelan claims the throne. She is willing to give up everything... her childhood, her life, even her heart for Arnhem. No matter the pain it brings.

Excerpt:

"Is there anyone else that you have feelings for, Aislinn? Is that why you don't want to be with Geoffrey?"

Aislinn blinked, thinking about his question. "I haven't thought about such things. I'm too focused on becoming a knight. That's all I'm worried about."

Caelan pushed back his chair and stood. With him on his feet, Aislinn had to tip back her chin to look him in the face, he had grown so much in the years since they'd first met. "There is no one else?"

She shook her head.

Caelan took a step closer to her, stepping so close he only had to whisper for her to hear him. "What if I told you that Geoffrey isn't the only one who favors your company?"

His closeness overwhelmed Aislinn and she tried to take a step back. Her shoulders bumped the bookshelf behind her and several books shifted, but none made enough noise to draw the attention of anyone else in the library. Caelan lay a hand against her cheek, his thumb beneath her chin, and with a gentle touched, forced her to look at him.

Her heart pounded hard in her chest like a caged bird and Aislinn caught her breath.

"Caelan," she whispered softly, but before she could say more, his lips covered hers.

Aislinn froze for a second as he held his mouth against hers, then heard herself sigh when he pressed closer and moved his lips. Aislinn's eyes fluttered closed and she raised her hands to lay them on his chest, feeling his heart pound as hard as her own. Then reality snapped at her and she shoved him away.

"Stop it!"

She pushed past the prince and rushed from the library, with several squires and younger pages turning at her escape. Aislinn ran to her room and slammed the door shut. She leaned against it and slid to the floor, her head in her hands.

How dare he kiss me!

But the worst realization was that she'd kissed him back. Even the memory now made her insides tremble and her hands shake.

Aislinn stared into the empty space of her chamber for several minutes, trying to push aside the memory that refused to leave before she finally stood. Completing her work would occupy her mind. She collapsed onto her bed and promptly fell asleep instead.

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

Book II - KNIGHT OF GLORY

Reviews:

It is strongly recommended to all those souls who love a mixture of romance, history, and fantasy. The real battle and the quest for true love make this book a must read." Reader's Favorite.com

"I loved this book!... Sir Geoffry is the noble night with a vulnerable heart. Jenanna is tough, yet feminine; independent, but lonely. And Celestia turned out to be a complete surprise as to what I had expected.... Can't wait for the next." Shawna Williams, author of No Other (Posted at Amazon)

Filled with bitter foes, magical displays, a quest for true love in many cases, and a dash of enigma, Knight of Glory is a true delight. Raven and the Writing Desk Review Blog

Blurb:

Sir Geoffrey, along with some companions, has been sent away from Arnhem, entrusted by Queen Aislinn for a special mission, and has to leave behind the mysterious lady Celestia. On his journey, he uncovers seeds of a sinister plot, learns a horrible secret, and makes a new friend in exile Jenanna.

Their mission completed, Geoffrey and his companions rush to two different kingdoms to ask for aid. Danger and betrayal lurks around every corner, and even allies have secrets that could prove deadly. Geoffrey's feelings for Celestia grow and wane. After learning some of Celestia's secrets, he begins to have second thoughts about his love for her and is even drawn to Jenanna.

Rumors abound that the Speicans have enlisted a mage of their own, to work unspeakable, forbidden magic. The war between Speica and Arnhem has just begun. Will Geoffrey survive the battle to live another day and discover which woman he truly loves?

Excerpt:

When twilight fell, Geoffrey halted the party. "Let us rest now. Another day, two at most, and we will reach Lochmarsh. We need to prepare ourselves, mentally, physically, and spiritually."

Jenanna pursed her lips. If she thought it too close to night she refrained from mentioning it.

Geoffrey reached into a bag tied to Swift Flight's saddle and pulled out a blanket. "Here, milady, for you to rest upon."

Jenanna stared at the cloth. "I do not need your compassion."

"I offer it freely."

She stared at him, sizing him up, and grabbed it. Placing the blanket far from the water, she laid on it.

Geoffrey watched her for several moments before Raulin's snores reached him. He turned to Jacob. "You certain that I need not keep watch?"

Jacob stared at him with listless eyes and blinked twice.

Geoffrey took that as a negative. He laid down, using a rock under his head, but could not sleep. He glanced over at Jenanna. Although her eyes were closed, he knew that sleep did not claim her either. "Jenanna. I think I have been visited by the Kelpie."

Her eyes flew open. "When?"

"Last night. I dreamt of it. At least, I think I did."

"That can only be an ill omen." She shivered as her gaze fell upon the water. "We should continue on."

"Raulin needs his rest. So do I for that matter. We shall be fine." I pray...

"I hope so." She rolled over, her back to the stream, and to Geoffrey.

Geoffrey slept and woke a short time later. The others still slept, and Jacob paid him no heed. He slowly climbed to his feet and stretched his back. Turning, he spotted a small creature in the near distance. Walking toward it, he realized It looks like a lost pony. Its fur was grey black, and its main dripped constantly. The fur seemed sleek, and Geoffrey reached out to find out if this was the case. The pony was cold, deadly arctic, and Geoffrey's fingers froze to it, he was unable to move his hand away.

"No! Geoffrey, you have to stop touching it!" Jenanna cried out. She gripped his arm and tugged hard.

He tried to turn his head to look at her, but even his neck muscles tightened, frozen. "I can't move!"

Jenanna pulled and yanked some more, but Geoffrey could not be freed.

The Kelpie neighed, a loud sinister sound, and its saliva dripped, turning into ice as it left his foaming mouth. It blew air out its nostrils, the breath turning to fog, giving the land an eerie, unearthly feel.

Jacob and Raulin rushed over. They attacked the creature with their swords, but the horse bucked and kicked, and even with such wild, reckless movements, Geoffrey remained attached.

"Take this, foul creature!" Jenanna shrieked, shoving a flame tree branch into the creature's side.

The Kelpie wailed and neighed. With a sudden rush of heat, Geoffrey collapsed. A loud splash sounded as the three surrounded his fallen form.

"What was that?"

"Not now, Raulin! Now is the time for a larger fire. Build one," Jenanna commanded. "And you, Jacob, the healer, aye? Do you know how to heal freeze burns?"

Jacob's face looked stricken in the pale flickering firelight. "I can try."

"Try isn't good enough. You must succeed." She knelt down and placed Geoffrey's head in her lap. "It will be all right, Geoffrey."

"S-so c-cold." Geoffrey's teeth chattered so loudly he barely heard his own voice. His body shook uncontrollably, the chills spreading from his hand to the rest of his body, lowering his core body temperature and slowly freezing the blood in his body. "God's T-teeth!"

The fire roared to life, greedily licking up the small remnants of grass nearby. "Good, Raulin, now go fetch my blanket." Raulin didn't even pause to nod.

Jenanna grabbed Geoffrey's wounded hand and tried to warm it with her own. Her fingers felt red hot, compared to his iciness, and her fingers kneaded his skin. "Quick, Jacob."

Jacob nodded and began to mutter incantations. He placed his hand above Jenanna's and Geoffrey's, and a bright yellow orange glowed from his hand.

As the cold moved closer to his heart, Geoffrey's shivering worsened. His body buckled from the severe shock cold waves.

Raulin returned and threw the blanket on Geoffrey, but it did nothing to help the nearly frozen knight. Jacob's voice grew louder, and the light responded, turning brighter. Jenanna moved her hand away, and Jacob laid his on Geoffrey's. Immediately, Jacob pulled his own away. "Too cold. My God, he's frozen!"

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

Book III - CHAMPION OF VALOR

Reviews:

Every book left me craving more and I'm so glad this one continued the hook. Kingdom of Arnhem exceeded my expectations! By Me Posted on Amazon

This was probably my favorite of the three books in this series....Enthralling and exciting, the third installment to the Kingdom of Arnhem series was a page turner. For all fantasy, historical fiction, and romance lovers alike, this book's the book for you. From Bree on Goodreads

Blurb:

The Mystical Conch Shell of the Sea has been stolen, and it's up to Selliki, the selkie, to get it back. Selliki sets across the continent of Alethereia to find Arnhem, and Gabrael, the mage she loves. Selliki knows that no union between a selkie and a human have ever had a happy ending, but neither can ignore their feelings. Each night, they experience terrible, real dreams that show how doomed their love is.

The final war between Speica and Arnhem is threatening the entire world. Lucifer has aligned himself with Speica and wants nothing less than to bring about the Apocalypse before its time. In the last battle, cowardice is revealed, promises are broken, and many people die. Trolls fight icthyocentaurs, dwarves armed up against the Drow, angels against demons. Only one kingdom will prevail; that is, if the world doesn't end.

Excerpt:

Night came, and they set up camp. Gabrael closed his eyes, and sleep claimed him. When he opened his eyes, all he could see was white. Something appeared in his hands -- Selliki's seal skin. He shoved it into a trunk that materialized out of nothing and locked it.

Selliki entered a few minutes later, looking lovely in a long blue gown. "Come, dear, it's time to be married."

Days passed, weeks, months, years. The two were extremely happy together and even had two children, a precious little girl and a strong, hardy son.

One day, Gabrael practiced magic with their daughter, Yara, on the beach. "The fire comes from within, deep inside your belly. Just feel it, move it up to your throat and blow." Gabrael demonstrated as a shot of flame exited his mouth.

Yara clapped her hands. "I want to try!" She furrowed her brow and blew. Nothing happened. She opened her mouth to try again but her concentration was distracted. "Mama, why are you running?"

Gabrael glanced behind him. Selliki ran toward the ocean, something dark in his hands.

Raphiel hurried over. "I found your trunk, Father."

Gabrael muttered a curse and jumped to his feet.

"What's wrong, Father?"

"Where is Mama going?"

Gabrael ran toward Selliki. He reached out with his arms to stop her, so they could talk, but his arms touched air. She had already dived into the water.

Gabrael stood there, by the water's edge, all night long and for the following day, before the knowledge came to him. Selliki had forsaken him. She was never coming back.

A single tear ran down Gabrael's face and dripped off his nose onto the sand. He turned his back on the water and cried. Maybe love isn't enough. How can I ask Selliki to abandon her very nature?

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Minx Tobin Murder Mystery Series--Case 2

2011-12-01T09:18:00.000-08:00

Case Two--The Ill-gotten Insurance, by Susanne Marie Knight

Who is Minx Tobin, you ask? Minx is a fitness instructor newly relocated to Los Angeles, California, who has a knack for solving puzzles--puzzles concerning dead bodies. For fun, romance, and... unexpected corpses, follow her adventures in this murder mystery series!

Blurb:

DEAD AGAIN

An odd string of coincidences leads Minx Tobin to an old friend, Bill Gutierrez. Only Bill died five years ago. Before Minx has a chance to question the man, he turns up dead... again, with a slip of paper in his pocket with her name on it. Whether she likes it or not, Minx is involved in another murder. Will the Case of the Ill-gotten Insurance turn out to be deadly for her as well?

Los Angeles homicide lieutenant Gabe Harris regrets that the fitness trainer who piqued his interest is a murder suspect once again. But at least he has a legitimate reason to see Minx. Maybe he can even convince her to go out with him. And maybe he can prevent L.A.'s newest murderer from adding Minx to his... or her fatality list.

Praise for The Ill-gotten Insurance:

4 hearts! Susanne Marie Knight pens another thriller in this series. The lives of the rich and famous overlap with those who work for a living. Character building and dialogue are great. The suspense as Minx confronts a killer is edge of your seat. For a woman whose intuition and people skills in a case are superb, Minx doesn't seem to do well communicating with Gabe. He's a macho man with a heart of gold but doesn't let Minx see much of his better side. Gabe's friend, Sgt. Antonio Atwell and his family are a priceless addition that really give the tale a boost. The author does a great job blending everyday people, some of whom are a bit creepy, with the suspects. Associates we meet at the fitness Emporium, especially the guys, will pique the memories of those forgettable dates we had before finding Mr. Right for many women. This is a fun series worth a read. Dee Dailey, The Romance Studio.

The Ill-gotten Insurance, the second installment in the Minx Tobin Case books, will not only keep you turning the pages until you reach the end of the story, it will have you seeking out the first of Ms. Knight’s Minx Tobin Case books if you have not already read it. The author’s fluent writing style which brings her characters alive, warts and all. Her ability to capture the outrage of the rich implicated in the murder along side her depiction of the hero and heroine and their supporting cast creates plenty of friction as some of those characters are simply ‘way-out’ weird. Ms. Knight offers characters you will want to get to know even better, characters you are still rooting for at the conclusion of The Ill-gotten Insurance. The story is packed with a gallery full of suspects and enough twists and turns to satisfy any reader. Fennel, Long and Short Reviews.

I don't normally read mystery, but I'm enjoying your book, Susanne Marie Knight. I just started it a while ago and already I'm hooked.--Jan L.

Minx and Gabe are a match made in heaven. I love mysteries. Combined with romance, they are irresistible. Luck in all you do.--Patricia A.

Minx and Gabe need to get together!!--C. K.

Excerpt:

Minx placed Harris' coffee in front of him and pulled out napkins from the table dispenser. There. She'd done her hostessing duties. Sitting across from him, she reached into her bag and got out her power bar.

"So, Lieutenant, what's up?"

Harris took a sip, then set the cup back down. "I've never been at the Elite Exercise Emporium before. Nice place. Do you think I should take out a membership?"

She blinked back surprise. Surely this wasn't his official business?

Peeling the wrapper off the bar, she replied, "You look buff enough, Lieutenant."

"Is that a compliment?"

She tilted her head at him. "Do you want it to be?"

What was going on here? Were they actually flirting with each other?

As she nibbled on the end of the granola power bar, she studied him. His odd combination of short dark and light grey hair swirled in waves over his head. A dark lock tumbled down over his high forehead. One renegade curl strayed appealingly around the curve of his ear.

He gestured with his large, well-formed hand. "That your lunch?"

"It sure is. Are you hungry? I've got two more bars with me."

He was a man that didn't smile much. With his job in the Los Angeles Police Department, there probably weren't many opportunities for smiles. But when he did let loose and show those pearly whites, despite herself, she seemed to turn into one of those silly adolescent girls she'd disparaged just a minute ago.

Harris not only smiled, but laughed. A deep, hearty, masculine laugh. His laughter attractively crinkled the skin around his eyes. Otherwise, his tanned face was unlined. Prematurely grey, that was what he was. Maybe that trait ran in his family.

"No, thanks. That granola bar looks like Fido's dog food to me."

The laugh and the smile disappeared as quickly as they surfaced. He must've been getting ready to lower the boom. Official police business was rarely good.

She swallowed down a bit of apprehension.

Book Trailer for The Ill-gotten Insurance:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGy7DzneQ2Y

Buy Links:

http://www.amazon.com/Minx-Tobin-Mysteries-Case-ebook/dp/B004HO5JGU/

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-136/Susanne-Marie-Knight-Minx/Detail.bok

Susanne Marie Knight

http://www.susanneknight.com/

Read outside the box: award-winning Romance Writing With A Twist!

THE CHRONICLES OF KASSOUK SERIES - Swords, cats, Kick-butt heroines, all on a winter planet

2011-11-26T10:31:00.000-08:00

THE CHRONICLES OF KASSOUK

Book One

WHITE TIGER

by Vijaya Schartz

from Desert Breeze Publishing

CHRONICLES OF KASSOUK - SERIES PREMISE:

Set in a world where a human transport crashed centuries ago, the Chronicles of Kassouk relate the evolution of a human community kept at a level of medieval development to serve a more advance race. Constantly battling to regain their rights, the human population struggles for freedom.

WHITE TIGER:

On the frozen plains of Kassouk, where a few aliens rule a medieval Human world, Tora, Human warrior trained by tigers, seeks her father’s murderer. But what she finds at the point of her sword confuses her. How dare Dragomir, the handsome Mutant, question her bloodline and her loyalties? And could a new enemy control the savage hordes of the fringe?

Dragomir offers to help, but Humans and Mutants are forbidden to fraternize under penalty of death... Should Tora trust her mind, her instincts, or her heart?

In the vortex of war, treason and intrigue, among blizzards, avalanches and ambushes, will Tora solve the mystery of her father’s death and unveil the secret of her birth? Can she and Dragomir escape persecutions long enough to save their planet from the invaders and fulfill their destiny?

REVIEWS:"...an exceptional tale that belongs in a place of honor on keeper shelves everywhere." - Recommended Read Johnna Flores - Coffee Time Romance - 5-cups rating

"...this is one futuristic that you do not want to miss!" - Naomi - Fallen Angels Reviews - 5 angels

"...kept me enthralled from the first page...a thrilling science fiction romance" - Marlene Breakfield, Paranormal Romance Reviews

"...unique and extremely well constructed" -- Review by Tami Brady at Book Ideas.com

"I'm adding this to my 'keeper' shelf and on the 'to be re-read' list" - Niniri Theriault for The Road to Romance4 1/2 stars

"...fast-paced story that draws the reader in and keeps him/her reading... The characters' personalities are believable and well rounded." - 3 1/2 Tigers - Michelle Thomas - Gottawrite network

EXCERPT:

Tora knocked on the door. It opened on an impossibly tall, muscular man with shiny dark hair falling straight to the shoulders. His fine features included a high forehead, copper-tan skin, and a pair of compelling hazel eyes.

"I was hoping it would be you." A dazzling smile revealed pure white teeth. "Please come into the warmth of my humble home." He let her in and closed the door, eyes sparkling with intelligence, and something else Tora could not define.

"Do we know each other?" Tora had to ask, although she would never forget such a striking man.

"Not yet." He grinned. "Let me help you with your coat. It's warm in here."

Tora handed him coat and hat, noticing the pleasant temperature of the room. The small fire burning in the hearth could not provide such even heat, but she saw no other fire. "This must be the most comfortable cottage in the village. I feel no draft at all."

The young man smiled as he spread Tora's fur by the fire. She removed her mittens, sat on the fur and accepted a bowl of hot kawa.

"Who are you?" Intrigued, Tora tried to sound neutral.

The striking man sat facing her. "My name is Dragomir. What might be yours?"

Unnerved by the stranger's nearness, Tora tried to collect her thoughts. Dragomir looked about twenty-five. His melodious voice, smooth skin, foreign look, the unique quality of the white clothes and the refinement of his manners screamed high nobility. This was no farmer.

"I'm Tora, White Tiger." She felt a strange vulnerability in his presence, as if he could read her most intimate thoughts. She had to steady her voice. "What are you doing here? This is a dangerous place to be alone. Bands of Zerkers have been spotted just south of here. When the lake freezes solid, their invading army will launch itself onto the plain."

"I know." Dragomir held her gaze. "I can see why they call you White Tiger."

"Really?" Amused at his pretense of knowing her, Tora settled on the fur. When she changed position, the jewel on her sword handle caught the light of the flames.

Dragomir reached for the hilt.

Hand on the sword, ready to draw, Tora froze. In the grip of his hand immobilizing hers, she sensed great physical strength. For an instant, their eyes locked, then Dragomir relaxed but didn’t move. Tora now stared at the offensive hand covering hers. It had six fingers like hers!

She’d never met anyone else with six fingers before. Who or what was this man? What was she, for that matter? Questions filled Tora’s mind but her throat constricted, and she couldn’t talk.

Seemingly undisturbed, Dragomir removed his hand then casually opened his silky shirt on a well muscled, hairless chest. Tora skipped a breath. On the smooth copper skin hung a faceted gem, a twin to that on her sword hilt. Unhooking the scabbard, she brought the hilt to the light. Same size, same cut, same azure brilliance, same silver heart in the center...

Dragomir’s eyes flashed. "Where did you get it?"

Challenged, Tora finally found her voice. "It was my mother's. Where did you get yours?"she asked, a little too eager. "I've never seen another one before. I was told it was the work of the Godds." Barely containing her excitement, Tora hoped she would learn something about her mother.

"I received mine from the proper source." Dragomir looked grave, older despite a youthful face. "But I can't tell you about it."

Tora had no patience for games. "You can, but you won't. What are you hiding, Dragomir? You are obviously no peasant, so who are you?"

"A man on a mission." He looked away.

Tora sighed. "I wouldn't doubt it. Whose side are you on?"

"There are more than two sides to this war, Tiger." Dragomir raised one eyebrow and took a sip of kawa. "Do you know which side you fight for?"

Tora sat up straight. How dared this upstart question her allegiance? "I fight to save my country from the invader." Why did she even bother to answer?

"Are you sure you are not helping a traitor open the way wide for your enemy, herding the population? A city can be easily destroyed with the appropriate weapons." He set down his bowl.

"I know of no weapon that can destroy a city." Tora controlled her temper. She resented being accused of treason.

"The Godds have such weapons, so do the Reptoids."

"Reptoids?" Tora remembered her father predicting a Reptoid invasion on his deathbed, along with a conspiracy, and weapons that could destroy even stone. "What can those weapons do?"

"Fired from faraway, they explode in a sea of fire."

If such weapons existed, the war could be lost before it started. "But Kassouk is the safest citadel on this continent. Besides, it's protected by the Godds themselves. They will fight the Reptoids for us."

Dragomir scoffed softly. "I wouldn’t be so sure."

Outraged by his insolence, Tora rose and drew her blade. She pointed the steel at his throat. "I do not like your insinuations, Dragomir, if that's your true name."

She expected him to go for the knife at his belt, but instead the man nonchalantly reclined on the furs in a graceful motion. One hand under his head, he turned the azure jewel in the light while his bare chest rose and fell under his even breathing. "I do not tell all I know, Tiger, but I do not lie. There are many facets to the truth, some of them hidden underneath, like on this jewel."

Confused, Tora stared at the man lying at her feet. He returned a steady gaze. Never in her life had she seen anyone more beautiful, not even a woman. Such smooth skin on perfect muscles, harmonious proportions, sublime grace despite his height, mystery in thick black lashes, and hazel eyes that could see all the way to her soul.

Vijaya Schartz
Award-winning Sci-Fi, Guns, Swords, Romance with a kick
http://www.vijayaschartz.com/

Find Vijaya's books at:

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http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JP7UJ4

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Moldavian Moon, Book 1 - The Wolf's Torment, paranormal/werewolf romance

2011-11-19T15:23:00.003-08:00

Pen & Muse: "A complete werewolf story through and through, Burkhart does it again with an amazing cast of characters, entertaining dialogue and plot."

Reader's Favorites, 5 Stars: "The Wolf’s Torment has it all, witches, werewolves, a vampire, princess and prince. This is paranormal romance at its finest.

Joy Cagil, Amazon Reader, 5 Stars: This novel is not only a highly entertaining page-turner but also it boasts its author's mastery of fiction. I loved it."

Dina Hickman, Amazon Reader: "Stephanie creates the perfect blend of romance and suspense in her novel, "The Wolf's Torment."

Romance Reviews: 3 Stars: "I would highly recommend THE WOLF'S TORMENT. You will find it satisfying, even as it leaves you hungering for more."

Keena Kincaid, Amazon Review, 5 Stars: "Ancient heritage and modern technology collide in the dark, tense tale The Wolf's Torment by Stephanie Burkhart."

Mona Risk, Amazon Review: 5 Stars: "I enjoyed this book enormously and read it in one sitting."

BLURB: It's 1865 in Moldavia, a country nestled against the shores of the Black Sea, and Crown Prince Mihai Sigmaringen returns after receiving an education in England. His best friend, Viktor Bacau joins him. Mihai is intent on modernizing his nation, but he's also a witch, and it's time he embraces his heritage. The tasks in front of him are many including getting married.

Lady Theresa von Kracken arrives in Constanta as Mihai's intended. Mihai has vowed not to fall in love again, but Theresa manages to break the battlements around his heart.

In an unfortunate twist of fate, Viktor is bitten by a werewolf. Viktor's transformation threatens everyone around him including his wife's safety and Mihai's happiness with Theresa. Viktor's bite is the wolf's torment.

BOOK TRAILER: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FzHE2spBeeU

ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:

Her voice was matter-of-fact, pricking at his faults, but damn if she wasn't beautiful in the firelight. The rest of his plans for the evening could wait.

He held up his glass. "Would you like a drink?"

"What is it?"

"Brandy."

She clapped her hands and a smile tipped the corner of her lips. "I've never tried it, but it smells like it would be an interesting adventure."

He chuckled at her lightheartedness and went to the hidden bar, disguised as a closed shelf in the library walls, and removed a clean glass. He poured her the drink and gave it to her, his eyes sweeping over her face, probing her soul. Her emotions were an open book.

She wanted him to touch her. She ached for it. She wanted him to drive the loneliness away. The thought of sharing a more intimate embrace with her was enticing. He held up his drink and they clicked glasses, sipping the amber liquid.

She didn't gag or choke, but swallowed hard and narrowed her eyes. "What a crisp adventure. I do believe it's warming my stomach."

He chuckled and held out his hand. She gave him the glass. He put it on the desk, then leaned against it again.

A burning curious look came into her eyes.

"Come here." His voice was raw and husky. She walked toward him slowly, her hips swaying.

"What are you thinking?"

"I'm sorry you were lonely."

She stopped in front of him and he lunged out and grabbed her waist, pulling her closer, settling her between his legs. Her body pressed against his and she put her hands on his chest.
For an instant, an intensity stole into her expression, an intensity he hadn't spotted before.

"I don't believe I've ever been this close to you."

"No, I don't believe you have either, but I rather enjoy it. I hope you do as well."

"Lent starts tomorrow."

"What do you say we do a little sinning tonight so we have something to be penitent for?"

Her face grew eager at the suggestion. Damn. His blood raced through his veins as his heart hammered in his chest. Desire for her overtook his senses. He had an intense awareness of her thrumming through his body.

"Such naughty thoughts, my Prince."

Desire smoldered in her eyes. He wanted to kindle that into a raging fire. For him alone. He claimed her sweet lips, crushing her against his body. She slid her hands up his chest and clutched his shoulders. Her body tensed, needing release. He deepened the kiss, refusing to let her escape. God, no, he refused to let his woman out of his arms. Mihai traced the soft fullness of her lips and she parted her mouth for him. Lord, her mouth was soft and sweet and giving. His tongue explored the recesses of her mouth, coaxing her to explore his.

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON KINDLE: http://www.amazon.com/Moldavian-Moon-Book-One-ebook/dp/B004YTI3FM/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1316985604&sr=1-1

BARNES & NOOK NOOK: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/moldavian-moon-book-one-stephanie-burkhart/1031031928?ean=2940012459787&itm=2&usri=stephanie%2bburkhart

ALL ROMANCE BOOKS: http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-moldavianmoonbookonethewolf039storment-544310-139.html

PUBLISHER'S LINK: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-163/Stephanie-Burkhart-Moldavian-Moon/Detail.bok

Minx Tobin Murder Mystery Series by Susanne Marie Knight

2011-11-15T06:02:00.000-08:00

Blurb: Newly relocated Minx Tobin likes to help her friends. She also has a knack for solving puzzles. A huge puzzle in the form of a dead body soon gets dropped into her lap. Did waitress Brandi Evans murder her ex-boyfriend? Minx doesn't think so, but can she crack the Case of the Bloodstained Bistro?

Overworked Homicide Lieutenant Gabe Harris has his fill of woman... and dead bodies. The women he can handle. The dead bodies -- unfortunately they keep piling up. But on this particular case he meets a young woman that not only impedes his investigation, but she also has no interest in him. A healthy ego like his can't handle that. He'll have to keep an eye on Ms. Minx Tobin.

Praise for The Bloodstained Bistro:

This is the first in the Minx Tobin series by talented author Susanne Marie Knight and you'll be waiting for the next one, just to see what happens next. The hint of romance blended in, promises sparks will fly. I'm pleased to recommend The Bloodstained Bistro to any mystery fan. The interesting settings and characters will keep you reading. Enjoy. I did. Anne K. Edwards, Mysteryfiction.net.

Knight's story is a delightful feast for the suspense's lovers soul. The writing is crisp, and the cast of characters are entertaining. The novel is sweet for romance readers with Gabe and Minx sharing a tender touch. "The Bloodstained Bistro" takes the reader along for the ride with Minx in the driver's seat. Stephanie, EZine Articles.

Minx and Gabe are a match made in heaven. I love mysteries. Combined with romance, they are irresistible. Luck in all you do.--Patricia A.

I LOVE THIS BOOK!!! I can't tell you how much I enjoyed THE BLOODSTAINED BISTRO--it's fantastic! And I'm so excited to read the next book in the series. All the characters are wonderful!--Nancy W.

Susanne's new book is 'GREAT'!! VERY interesting! Congratulations to Susanne!--Michele T.

Excerpt:

The Tobin woman had been surprised by his offer of dinner, but not as surprised as he was himself. Gabe drove onto Santa Monica Boulevard all the while wondering what the hell he had been thinking.

She'd been right; strictly speaking, about fraternizing with a suspect. He was mixing pleasure with official police business. Dynamite that was guaranteed to explode in his face.

He glanced over at his reluctant passenger. Sitting stiffly in the passenger seat, she held her handbag against her chest as if it were a shield offering protection.

Not that she'd need it against him; she wasn't his type. She was lean and athletic. He preferred his women to be of the buxom variety.

And, come to think of it, he might not be her type either. She seemed to have a preference for Brandi Evans' company.

"Where are we going to eat?" Minx asked, turning her dark eyed gaze on him.

Minx. What a helluva name. She hadn't like it when he used it. Her plump lips had turned down imperceptibly. He'd noticed though. It was his job to be observant.

He stopped at a light and looked over at her again. "I thought since we both seem to gravitate toward Valentin's, we'd go there."

She didn't comment. By the narrowing of her eyes, he could tell she was in a snit. Perhaps he couldn't blame her. She'd just eaten at the bistro last night, although she wasn't aware that he knew that fact.

He parked alongside Valentin's and turned off the engine before noticing the sign on the door proclaiming the bistro to be closed.

"That's strange," he said, more to himself than to the woman.

"It certainly is," she agreed. "I was just here last night. I sure hope it's not closed permanently."

Gabe started up the car again. "Maybe Valentin had an emergency." Whatever was the reason, he'd have to check it out. Later.

So now what? This little tête-à-tête with Minx Tobin was turning out to be a really lousy idea.

Book Trailer for The Bloodstained Bistro:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WIPP0MJtnTs

Buy Links:

http://www.amazon.com/Minx-Tobin-Mysteries-Case-ebook/dp/B003U8AF86

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-101/Susanne-Marie-Knight-Minx/Detail.bok

Susanne Marie Knight

http://www.susanneknight.com/

Read outside the box: award-winning Romance Writing With A Twist!

Budapest Moon Series; Book 1, The Hungarian by Stephanie Burkhart

2011-11-14T08:51:00.000-08:00

REVIEWS:
Happily Ever After Reviews, 5 Cups
"This is an excellent book and I think fans of both the paranormal and historical romances will really, really enjoy it."

Sizzling Hot Book Reviews, 5 Hearts
"I highly recommend The Hungarian, even if you aren't that interested in the paranormal such as werewolves. The romantic tale of The Hungarian is enough to win over anyone."

Reader's Favorites, 5 Stars
"This book is extremely entertaining. The plot is sensual and romantic."

Coffee Time Romance, 3 Cups
"Ms. Burkhart tells this tale in such a voice that we can practically feel the waves of emotions both characters are feeling coming off the pages."

BLURB:

Katherine Archibald is in search of a grand adventure. A young woman in late Victorian England, she wants to open up a book store in London and travel Europe hunting down rare books. Love isn't on her map.

Enter Matthias Duma. The Hungarian count captures Katherine's attention like no other man before him with his unusual gold-malachite eyes, his exotic features, and his command of the night sky.

After a night of intrigue during Katherine's birthday, she discovers the map does include love in the legend, but will the map lead her to Budapest and the dark, brooding Hungarian she's just met?

ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:
The door squeaked open and Katherine peeked over the top of her book. A tall, muscular man walked in wearing a white button-down shirt and holding his blazer. He paused, as if surprised to find her, and then walked toward the window, his stride easy. He moved with wolf-like prowess, his long legs taking cool, calculated steps as his unusual eyes surveyed her. Katherine bit the inside of her lip, returning his measured perusal with one of her own. His silence was unnerving, yet intriguing.

His eyes drew her to him -- malachite green with a gold ring around the iris. Dynamic. Expressive. Even now, as he looked at her, they softened and grew translucent. He stopped in front of the window and casually threw his blazer onto a nearby chair as if he owned the room.

"Hello," he said.
"Hello."
"You're staring."

"I am? I thought you were staring at me."
He chuckled. "Perhaps I was admiring you."

"Me?"
"Who else is here?"

Katherine pursed her lips as her insides warmed from the deep silkiness of his voice. He smiled and walked to her chair, slowly gliding around it, tracing his finger over the leather headrest, skirting her curly hair.

"What's your name?" he asked.

"And who is inquiring?" She tried to sound cool and composed, but she had to fight the nervous temptation to play with her hands.

"Romeo, perhaps?"
"Then my name is Juliet."

A teasing smile graced his lips as he walked out from behind her chair and glanced at a bookshelf before turning to look at her again.

"Would you fall for Tristan?"
"Only if my name were Isolde."

He walked over to a wooden table near the window and ran his long finger over a clay mock-up of Excalibur lodged in a stone. "What do you think of Arthur? Do you think it suits me?"
"Only Guinevere would believe your name was Arthur."

He crossed his arms, his eyes sparkling in the sunlight. "Would you believe my name was Matthias?"

"I might, if--"
"If what?"
"If I knew more about you."

BOOK TRAILER ON YOU TUBE:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZwaF8hAdow

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON KINDLE:
http://www.amazon.com/Budapest-Moon-Book-One-ebook/dp/B003K15NG2/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1317406212&sr=1-1

BARNES & NOBLE NOOK:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/budapest-moon-book-one-stephanie-burkhart/1029789952?ean=9781936000654&itm=4&usri=stephanie%2bburkhart

SONY EBOOKS
http://ebookstore.sony.com/ebook/stephanie-burkhart/the-hungarian/_/R-400000000000000233152

ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS:
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-budapestmoonbookonethehungarian-427260-139.html

PUBLISHER'S BUY LINK:
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-87/%3Ci%3EBudapest-Moon-Book-One%3C-fdsh-i%3E-cln-/Detail.bok

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

BUDAPEST MOON BOOK 2 - The Count's Lair

Winner: Silver in the Reader's Favorites Contest, Romance: Sci-Fi/Fantasy category

REVIEWS:

SIZZLING HOT BOOKS, 5 Hearts
"This is one of the best werewolf books I have ever read. If you enjoy the Werewolf legends, or just romantic relationships, The Count's Lair is a wonderful read."

LONG & SHORT REVIEWS, 5 Stars, Fennel
"Want a recipe for a great story? Take an awesome writer like Ms. Burkhart, stir in her intimate knowledge of Hungary, her innate ability to create wonderful characters, a book-full of suspense, mystery and passion and you get a book you can’t put down."

READER'S FAVORITES, 5 Stars
The Count’s Lair is filled with suspense, mystery, passion, and the paranormal.

PEN & MUSE REVIEWS:
Those who love paranormal romance with a dash of suspense and mystery will fall in love with The Count’s Lair.

BOOK TRAILER ON YOU TUBE:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaiYNNpETok

BLURB:
Count Anton Varga is haunted by the curse of the moon. It tugs on his emotions, ravishing his soul. Anton abhors the beast he must learn to tame if he is to find peace.   

Lady Amelia Andrássy is an accomplished pianist, but her life in Budapest had been filled with heartache. When Amelia faints in the Duma's bookstore, it's Anton's strong arms that cradle her fall. His unusual indigo eyes spark with hers, replacing their individual loneliness with the promise of feral passion.   

After a two month separation, Anton is ready to walk into Amelia's life again, but is Amelia ready to fan the spark they shared into a flame?  ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:

Count Varga looked like a tamed jackal. His hair was wind-tussled, and his overcoat accented his muscled physique. His scarf hung casually over his shoulders, too, as if it were just for show. She was completely disarmed by his full red lips, more vulnerable to his presence than she would have thought. Anton draped the cloak over her shoulders and snapped the front clasp. Sparks of warmth jumped off him, saturating her body. His smoldering sapphire eyes found hers. She adored his attention.

Bryant handed her a pair of gloves, her hat, and her scarf. She hung the scarf around her neck and put on her hat.

"Are you ready?" Anton asked.

She nodded, and he escorted her to his auto. The cold winter air nipped at her cheeks. It was only the first week of December, but Anton hadn't joked about the temperature.

They got in the back seat of his auto, and the driver took off. The auto was warm. Amelia put her gloves in her lap.

"Some people have set up a tent in the middle of the market and are selling goulash and warm apple wine. Do you mind having lunch there? I thought we'd take in the market's ambience."

"Not at all."

"I've missed you." He turned in the seat to look at her.

She smiled. "I've missed you, too."

"Did you get your invitation to the noble's ball?" he asked.

"Yes. I got it today."
"May I escort you?"

"I would like that," she replied. She'd like it a lot. Too much for her own good, but she wasn't prepared to admit that to him just yet. He already had unsettled her. It was exciting to be in the presence of a man so confident and secure. The last few weeks with Mikel, she'd thought he had avoided her because of the success of her piano concerts.

BUY LINKS:
AMAZON KINDLE:
http://www.amazon.com/Budapest-Moon-Book-Two-ebook/dp/B004LLIEMK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1317535160&sr=8-1

BARNES & NOBLE NOOK:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/budapest-moon-book-two-the-counts-lair-stephanie-burkhart/1029218357?ean=9781612520186&itm=5&usri=stephanie%2bburkhart

SONY EBOOK STORE:
http://ebookstore.sony.com/ebook/stephanie-burkhart/the-count-s-lair/_/R-400000000000000337165

ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS:
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-budapestmoonbooktwothecount039slair-513164-139.html

PUBLISHER'S BUY LINK:
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-142/Stephanie-Burkhart-Budapest-Moon/Detail.bok

***************
BUDAPEST MOON BOOK 3 - Danube in Candlelight

REVIEWS:
5 Stars, Reader's Favorite:
This story is the closest I have ever come to reading a book that feels like a movie!

5 Hearts, Sizzling Hot Book Reviews:
Once again, Stephanie Burkhart has touched my imagination and with her writing brings 1922 Hungary to life. Danube in Candlelight is a very romantic, yet spicy read. This is a must read if you enjoy the paranormal werewolf stories or even if you merely enjoy a great romance.

Book Trailer on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgzUIHCRN0I

BLURB:
Set in Budapest 1922, The Hungarians are recovering from the war. Adam Varga is Hungarian to the bone and becomes an architect to help rebuild his nation. Morgan Duma returns from England also intent on helping to rebuild her country.

After a tragedy happens to her mother, Morgan discovers her father is a werewolf. She begins to question who she is, becoming more reckless, moredaring, and her choices more bold. When Zoltan Kristos, a known werewolf, requests Morgan accompany him to the summer ball, Morgan has to decide which man will best fit her life.
ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:

Morgan drew in a deep breath as the knot in her shoulder tensed. Adam had a point. How could she be so self-centered, dwelling on her high-strung emotions? Perhaps it was a cover. Perhaps she couldn't face the real issue because it mortified her. She didn't want to think about it now. Morgan turned her head away and reached over her shoulder to massage that tension-filled knot.

"Turn around." Adam's voice brooked no debate. She liked a man who commanded authority. Morgan turned, and he massaged both her shoulders. Heat from his hands trailed down her back. Her core warmed. Her body relaxed, reacting instinctively and with a desire she couldn't hide.

"Did I hit a nerve?" he asked.

"A nerve? In my neck?" She took a step backward to be closer to him.

"No. About your father. Is your real fear about what will happen to your mother once he turns her?" Adam kept his voice low and leaned close to her ear.

She closed her eyes briefly and faced her anxiety. "Yes."

"Morgan, our fathers' condition has a host of positive traits -- heightened senses, for example, but the best trait is the healing factor."

"I understand, Adam. That healing factor will help my mother recover from her awful injuries, but it comes with a tradeoff -- she's going to become a werewolf."

"Is it better she become addicted to morphine? That addiction is a beast in itself. Which would you prefer she'd become? The soldiers hooked on morphine have vacant eyes, and their hands tremble for their next fix. Do you want that for your mother? Fighting something she can't win against, or do you want her dealing with a manageable condition? Both our fathers are good men. They've managed it."

Morgan pursed her lips. Adam's tone was laced in objectivity and confidence, offering her a plausible reason for her father's actions. Morgan didn't want a shell of skin and bones that resembled her mother -- she wanted her mother well, both emotionally and physically. Why had she been so selfish not to see that?

"It doesn't bother you that you have these traits?"

"I'm comfortable with who I am."

Morgan spun around, pressing the length of her body against Adam, curving her hand around the nape of his neck, and bringing his lips to hers. Their mouths met in a searing kiss full of desire. Want. Warmth. Pleasure replaced Morgan's emotional pain, and she deepened the kiss between them by sweeping her tongue into his mouth.

Adam groaned, wrapped his hands around her waist, and tugged her closer. Morgan continued the kiss, nipping his lower lip with her teeth. A blast of heat from his body washed over her like an ocean wave, sending pleasure spiraling through her. God, she had never felt so wonderful.

He threaded his hand through her hair and then yanked her head back. His mouth fell to her neck. Shivers of delight followed the hard, demanding kisses he placed on her skin.

"Adam, God, don't stop..."

He did just that. He withdrew his hand from her hair, sliding it down the side of her body to rest at her waist. She looked into his golden eyes blazing with the flames of desire. Adam drew in a deep breath.

"Damn, Morgan, I am a man, and I have more control than that."

She placed her hand over his heart. "You enjoyed it. Don't deny it."

PUBLISHER'S BUY LINK: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-219/Budapest-Moon-Book-III/Detail.bok

AMAZON KINDLE BUY LINK: http://www.amazon.com/Hungarian-Moon-Book-Three-ebook/dp/B0061XJFG0/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1320188529&sr=1-1
BARNES & NOBLE NOOK BUY LINK: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hungarian-moon-book-three-stephanie-burkhart/1107039692?ean=2940013659148&itm=1&usri=danube%2bin%2bcandlelight
ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS: http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-hungarianmoonbookthreedanubeincandlelight-636082-139.html

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:
WEBSITE:
http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

TWITTER:
http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart

FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stephanie-Burkhart-Author/149938795021166

GOOD READS:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart

The Telomere Trilogy Book One: Revelations of Tomorrow

2011-11-13T18:53:00.000-08:00

Summary

The crew of Daring Star salvages a load capsule and finds the beaten body of Jetta McCree. Turns out Jetta's discovered her employer has developed a biochemical droplet and is contracted with terrorists to manufacture on a large scale. Captain Noah Bonney fights off corporate security forces, her ex-husband's pirate fleets, and carnivorous beasts to keep the young woman safe and transport her to the safety of the Imperial Home Port.

But the adventure brings to surface demons Noah's been suppressing and secrets from her people's history she's tried to forget. Now, she must face them if she's to reconcile with her daughter and keep the love of her life from leaving. With 450 years under her belt and nothing but eternity ahead of her, she's built a thick shell… one she's not sure she can break.

Excerpt:

Several loud shrills broke the silence. Smaller forest creatures rustled the canopy and cleared but. Blasts replied to those shrills and Matthew's body went cold. A scream of both fear and pain shattered the quiet.

Then nothing for what seemed like eternity.

Scouts broke through, the fear, so evident on their faces, overwhelmed them into a deathly silent run for life. Still, Matthew willed her to appear. She'd be one of the last, to ensure as many as possible returned.

Another shrill and two dark forms, similar to the images on the virtual screen rose above the canopy, arched, then dove back in. Several of Makai's men aimed and shot. Three more popped out and zoned in on their direction.

"They're coming!" Makai stated the obvious.

Noah broke through at a full run. Her clothes were bloodied. Several slashes left the protective jacket hanging from one shoulder. She screamed in defiance and turned, her large blast barrel pointed, aimed. A large creature broke free low to the ground. She shot and a smoke trail followed it to the creature's chest.

The shrill pitched higher, in pain right before its chest exploded. The impact blew Noah back several feet. She scrambled up, turned, and ran again, this time with a limp. Several more creatures broke free from the tree line. Matthew didn't think. He ran for her, aimed his gun and shot as he went. He reached her, where she crouched to shoot again and grabbed her. Yanking her up, he dragged her until she turned and joined him in the retreat.

Only fifty or so yards. We can make it.

Twenty-five yards.

Claws clamped on his shoulders, with the opposing claw piercing into his back. He screamed. Noah screamed with him in shocked surprise. He was lifted and then the beast slammed him into the ground and clamped its teeth into his upper arm, shoulder, and neck in one bite. His second scream ended muffled in the dirt.

Loud blasts erupted into the silence. The animal's claws released. It tumbled off and took a large chuck of his shoulder with it. The wound sizzled in his ear, his body started to convulse uncontrollably. The world tipped and rolled. His hearing echoed, and then all that remained was a loud constant roar.

Purchase Links:

Purchase Links: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Desert Breeze Website All Romance Books

The Sisters Callaway by Theresa Stillwagon

2011-11-13T16:55:00.000-08:00

You don't need to come from the same place, or have the same parents, to be sisters. Jessie, Megan, Liz, Allie, and Kelly are The Sisters Callaway.

Book 1 -- Saving Pale Moon

Jessica Callaway isn’t happy. Maybe meeting her birth mother now would be a good thing.

And it would be if only for her brother.

Blake Hunter doesn’t trust her. Why is she here now, after finding out about Abby twenty years ago? She does look like his adopted mother, but he plans on keeping a cool head until the verifying blood tests are done.

Jessie senses his distrust, but she is still way too aware of him. The mere sound of his voice sets her on edge. When her birth mother tells her Blake is adopted, she relaxes her guard and decides to enjoy her time in Texas. With all the horses surrounding her, especially Pale Moon, she’s in heaven.

Unfortunately Blake isn’t as accepting as the other Hunters.

Has she done the right thing coming to Texas? Or has Jessie made the biggest mistake of her life?

Buy links

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-151/%3Ci%3EThe-Sisters-Calloway-Book/Detail.bok

http://www.amazon.com/Sisters-Calloway-Book-One-ebook/dp/B004V9KBV4/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1306002749&sr=1-5

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/saving-pale-moon-theresa-stillwagon/1029218120?ean=9781612520308&itm=4&usri=theresa+stillwagon

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thesisterscallowaybookonesavingpalemoon-534652-149.html

Book 2 -- Renovations

Was she making a big mistake?

Megan Callaway now owned Green Oaks Plantation, with all of its outbuildings and forest of trees and grass – and problems. She planned on changing it into a bed and breakfast. Yet she didn’t have complete control. She would have to agree on everything with Andy Perry, the president of the local historical group.

The man didn’t want to see anything change on the property.

Megan wanted to demolish all the outer buildings except an old-fashion outdoor kitchen.

Sparks fly every time the two get together.

But it’s not until her past starts catching up to her, things get interesting.

Would Megan really be able to let go?

Buy links

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-228/The-Sisters-Calloway-Book/Detail.bok

http://www.amazon.com/Sisters-Callaway-Book-Two-ebook/dp/B0067DE6L8/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1327896318&sr=1-3

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-sisters-callaway-book-two-theresa-stillwagon/1107396598

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thesisterscallawaybooktworenovations-646467-149.html

The Sisters Callaway Book 3 -- A Difficult Choice -- Coming in July, 2012

Teresa Medeiros ~ It's All Related...

2011-11-13T14:23:00.000-08:00

So excited to be asked by Tami Dee to post my Related Books here at ONCE UPON A SERIES :). I have a short attention span so I don't usually write trilogies, just "duets". I'm working on the second book of a new "duet" right now, which will begin on December 27th with the release of my new historical romance THE PLEASURE OF YOUR KISS.

So...here are my related books (My Kissin' Cousins? :)) in the order in which they're intended to be read. I should add that all of my books stand alone as single titles as well so it's not necessary to read them in order, although you might get more context that way.

THE KINCAID HIGHLAND SERIES

Some Like It Wicked

Some Like It Wild

THE KANE/CABOT VAMPIRE SERIES

After Midnight

The Vampire Who Loved Me

THE FAIRLEIGH SISTERS

One Night of Scandal

A Kiss to Remember

THE LENNOX FAMILY MAGIC SERIES

Breath of Magic

Touch of Enchantment

THE FAIRY TALE SERIES (Which are linked by theme alone and can be read in any order)

Charming the Prince

The Bride and the Beast

A Kiss to Remember

You can learn more about all of my books here and read Excerpts:

http://teresamedeiros.com/website_2b_002.htm

Happy reading,

Teresa Medeiros

The Roarin' 20's

2011-11-04T15:07:00.000-07:00

Book One: The Floating Palace, a historical, inspirational romance

ELLIE DUNKLING'S life long dream has been to work on one of Lake Champlain's steamboat, the Ticonderoga. There's only one problem. Men, not women, are hired to work on ships. Ellie, however is determined to change that. After all, it is 1923 and far from the dark-ages.

Captain PHILIP LAWHORN is a man's man. When Champlain Transportation Inc. informs him a woman has been hired to work on his ship as stewardess, he's anything but pleased. First, he doesn't appreciate the fact someone's hired on his twenty-eight-member crew without his knowledge. Secondly, how is he supposed to handle this company mandated -- sure to be -- disaster?

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

EXCERPT

"Excuse me, captain?"

Philip whirled on his heel. A petite woman with a creamy complexion stared at him with wide, hazel eyes. "Yes?" The lady hesitated then put one foot into his room. She held out a gloved hand, which he took automatically. No matter how glad he might be for a distraction, passengers weren't supposed to be in his quarters. He made a mental note to have a word with his crew later. For now, he had to find an inoffensive way to get rid of this interloper.

"What can I do for you, miss?"

She withdrew her hand and lifted her chin. Determination sparked in her eyes, and Philip hoped what he'd heard about redheads wasn't true. The last thing he needed right now was a hot-tempered, stubborn woman -- however beautiful she may be -- to upset things even more. He took a step closer and held out his elbow. "Let me escort you back to the purser's desk to find someone to help you locate your stateroom."

The woman frowned as if he spoke a different language. Finally, she smiled. Her whole face radiated warmth that enveloped him. "I don't think you understand. I'm Ellie Dunkling, your new stewardess."

"My... my what?" So much for distracting him, she was the distraction.

"Your new--"

He cut her off with a wave of his hand. "I heard you, but I don't agree." He wheezed, "You are not a steward."

Her arched brows drew together. "There must be some misunderstanding. Mr. Trembley said you were expecting me."

Expecting her? Not hardly.

"Lady." He shook his head. "You have no idea." The situation was so ludicrous he was tempted to pinch himself. However, the only thing he was sure to wind up with was a bruise for his efforts. Before him stood an elegant woman in a long, drop-waist garment, insisting she had a place of employment... here.

If there had to be a stewardess, shouldn't it be a frumpy, gray-haired spinster with thick round glasses and a substantial waistline? At least then he wouldn't feel as uncomfortable about the dirty, difficult responsibilities she would need to carry. Nor would he have half the worry over the reputation of his crew and boat, or even the state of his heart for that matter.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Reviews:

"Ms. Carter must have done her research because from the very first page until the last, you feel as if you are right there with Ellie and Philip and the crew. You are given vivid word pictures of settings and the tone of this novel flows so smoothly with the time period. Ms. Carter inserted colloquial speech from that time in just the right spots and you didn't have to turn back to the glossary to refresh yourself on the definition of terms. Her prose just works, effortlessly, and stays with you long after you finish reading. I give Ms. Carter Five Stars for Outstanding Fiction¦ definitely a keeper on my book shelf. I look forward to reading the next book in this series."

Joanne Troppello -- "It only takes a mustard seed..." Blog
Rating = 5 Stars

"In this wonderful romance by JoAnn Carter, the reader is plunged into the world of 1923, where a woman may work but definitely not on a hectic steamboat surrounded by men. With three dimensional characters and a gripping storyline, this novel is a page turner and a kindle keeper. Fist in a new series, Ms. Carter once again doesn't disappoint. She leaves the reader wanting more and eagerly anticipating the rest of the books in the series."

Clare Revell -- The World Can Wait Blog
Rating = 5 Stars

"This was my first time reading JoAnn Carter and a friend suggested that I read The Floating Palace and I am so glad that I did... This is the first book in the Series and I know one thing for sure I will be reading the 2nd in the series as soon as it comes out. JoAnn Carter makes you feel like you are right there perhaps as Ellie working on the ship and her interactions with others. If you like Historical Romance then this book is for you.. An excellent job!!"

SimplyJewels -- Review posted at Barnes & Noble
Rating = 5 Stars

Purchase your copy today at:
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-185/JoAnne-Carter-Cherished-Moments/Detail.bok or at Amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com

Stay tuned for information coming about book 2, Mercies in Disguise. This story will be released Feb. 15, 2011 through Desert Breeze Publishing.

The O'Briens of Ballycashel

2011-11-02T03:44:00.000-07:00

Series Blurb: Well, I don’t really have one, for the simple reason that I never planned to write a series. The first book, In Sunshine or in Shadow, was a story that had simmered in my heart for years. It was meant to be a single story.

But my characters had other ideas.

In In Sunshine or in Shadow, there’s a scene between my hero, Rory O’Brien, and his 10-year-old daughter, in which he tells her that one day he’ll let her return to Baltimore to visit her late mother’s family.

Click! Even as I wrote that scene, I knew Katie would have her own story.

But …

There’s another little girl in In Sunshine or in Shadow, seven-year-old Ashleen Desmond, my heroine’s daughter. And I wasn’t yet ready to leave Ireland behind.

Thus was born the second O’Brien story, Coming Home.

Let me take you to Ballycashel, the wind-swept, West-of-Ireland village where my stories take place…

In Sunshine or in Shadow

A Valiant Survivor of Famine and Tyranny

Siobhan Desmond will do anything to keep the tattered remains of her family alive, even if it means working for the new landlord – a darkly handsome stranger with secrets in his eyes and pain in his smile. As she watches her village return to life and begin to thrive under Rory O’Brien’s care, she comes to understand his true nature and soon finds herself falling under his dangerously sensual spell.

As danger ignites all around them, Rory and Siobhan fight to right the wrongs of the past – and protect their newfound love.

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0974624950/002-9576380-5473642

“In Sunshine or in Shadow is a classic Irish romance at its very best.”

~TCM Reviews

Coming Home

“A woman’s love is strong, more powerful than all the ghosts in

Ireland

..”

Daughter of an Irish village girl, step-daughter of the landlord, Ashleen O’Brien has lived between two very different worlds. But after a year in America, she yearns to return to the green land that is her heart’s home.

War and betrayal have taken everything from Cavan Callaghan – his home, his family, and the woman he loved. A hero of the Irish Brigade at Antietem, he’s searching for the family he never knew.

Love and deception await Cavan and Ashleen along those emerald shores, as the ghosts of a past that can never quite be forgotten rise to threaten their newfound happiness.

http://www.amazon.com/Coming-Home-Cynthia-Owens/dp/0983396000/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1303209296&sr=1-1

“What’s not to love? Laughter and tears, and best of all … another happy ending! Thank you, Cynthia, for sharing your wonderful tales with us!”

~ I Am Celt “Liz”, Amazon.com

Author Bio:

I believe I was destined to be interested in history. One of my distant ancestors, Thomas Aubert, reportedly sailed up the St. Lawrence River to discover Canada some 26 years before Jacques Cartier’s 1534 voyage. Another relative was a 17^thCentury “King’s Girl,” one of a group of young unmarried girls sent to New France (now the province of Quebec) as brides for the habitants (settlers) there.

My passion for reading made me long to write books like the ones I enjoyed, and I tried penning sequels to my favorite Nancy Drew mysteries. Later, fancying myself a female version of Andrew Lloyd Weber, I drafted a musical set in Paris during WWII.

A former journalist and lifelong Celtophile, I enjoyed a previous career as a reporter/editor for a small chain of community newspapers before returning to my first love, romantic fiction. My stories usually include an Irish setting, hero or heroine, and sometimes all three.

My website and blog

My Facebook Author Page

Twitter: @Cynwrites1

Anatomy of a Madman and his series

2011-11-01T15:31:00.000-07:00

My name is J. Morgan and I write series.

Did that sound like the start of a self intervention to you? Yeah, it did to me too. Sorry, but writing series is as much an addiction as well, reading them. Since that seems to be the case with just about everyone, I thought why not give my views on why readers seem to go gaga over books that seem to go on and on forever. My brain does not assume any responsibility for any of the things my fingers might say. It more or less gave up trying to reel them in a long time ago and disavows any claim to being in control. That said, let's get this thing rolling.

What is a series? I'm sure there's a technical definition for it, but this is the one I like to use. A series is a book that refuses to end and when it does, everyone gets upset over it. I use the book Blackwood Farms as a prime example of that last bit. If you don't recognize the title, think Anne Rice and the Vampire Lestate. The second question most commonly asked about series, is a trilogy a series? Nope. Three books does not a series make. I don't care how many lost books the Tolkien estate throws at us, all you got is three books and a big maybe on The Hobbit. It's a prequel, so fits in there somewhere, but you've still only got three books in the Lord of The Rings. Pet peeve, sorry for the rant. Let's move on before somebody tries to fight me on that. Another thing about what makes a series, then I'll move on to something else equally mindlessly drivelly. A certain theme has to run through each book of the series, or an underlying subplot that ties all the books together. If you have all that, then you've got yourself a series.

Please save all questions until the end of the lecture. That means you can put your hand down in back. Tami, don't make me call you out by name. There, I did it anyway.

Why do authors write series? I don't know, but I do know why I write series. So I guess, I'll just be answering for me and the voices in my head. I write them because the characters in my books just refuse to leave me alone. Another reason, people keep buying them, but I'd write them, even if they never left my computer. I love my characters and want to know what happens to them. Why else would I waste valuable TV viewing time writing about them? I wouldn't, but that's a whole different addiction in need of treatment. I think every writer would say the same thing. Maybe not about the TV stuff, but definitely about loving our characters. It's hard to turn loose of something that has dominated a goodly portion of time. These books don't write themselves despite what Stephen King thought up in Tommyknockers. By the time, I get to the last page of a book, I've already thought up a hundred more things I could do with the characters and do to them. Insert evil maniacal laugh here. As of now, I have two bordering on three series in the works. True, two of them are trilogies but I seriously doubt I'll be able to stop at three books. Like I said, writing series is addictive.

Why are series so popular? Same reason as why we write them. If characters can capture an author's imagination for more than one book, it stands to reason readers will pick up on that vibe and want more too. I know it seems like series are something new, but they've been around forever. Alexander Dumas had the Three Musketeers way back when. Pulp writers starting tossing them out in the first half of the 20th Century. Most of the great ones are still around. Tarzan, John Carter of Mars, the Shadow, Conan, just to name a few of the greats from the pulp era. My first series was The Hardy Boys. When I read all those, I started on my cousin's Nancy Drews. Yeah, I had a big crush on Nancy. I blame Pamela Sue Martin for that. Even TV and Movies picked up on our love to read endless books about our favorite characters. Between Star Wars and Star Trek, I have one wall covered in books. Again, reading series is an addiction.

Can you see the repetition going on here? No, Tami that was a rhetorical question and put your hand down. I'm not through yet.

To sum up this blog, people love series! As someone with one major series going, I can honestly say, I don't see that changing any time soon. Once a writer creates a world so rich in detail and imagination, it's hard to let go. That goes both for the author and the reader. How long do I see myself writing them? Well, that's the thing. I have a ton of series in my head, but I don't see myself writing any one of them forever. If it's one thing I've learned from reading series it's this. You get bored with them. You run out of ideas. They get repetitive. Before I go down that road, I plan to nip it in the bud. I don't want to disappoint anyone but my Love Bites series has a set number of books in it -- fifteen. After that, it's over. Sorry, but that's all the story the series has in it. The Southern Werewolf Chronicles only has three, but that could change. The Immortally series is another three off. But, I have a least two more series rolling around in my head. What are they? Well, that's for me to know, and for you to read about.

Thanks for letting me rot your brain. It's been fun and hopefully informative. Okay, Tami, now you can raise your hand.

A short Jmo Bio

J. Morgan -- that's me -- is an accomplished TV viewer with hours of drivel baked into his brain as a result. When not glued to the tube, he -- that's me again -- finds the time to write books about things some people find funny. When not doing those two things, he -- yep you guessed it, me -- pretends to write and watches DVDs. If you're interested in reading any of these series… Well, one series and a couple trilogies. Please check out the link below, which should take you to his -- yes, me again,, last time I promise -- author page on the Desert Breeze Publishing website. If for some reason it doesn't, then he -- oh, I give up -- was probably watching TV and put the link in wrong.

J. Morgan at Desert Breeze

2011-10-31T13:36:00.000-07:00

Say Goodbye to Yesterday (Book One in my Decisions series)
Available NOW

Series Theme: DECISIONS -- About the choices people make and how those choices change not only the life of the person involved in the choosing, but also for the lives of everyone around them.

FLAME FROM WITHIN introduces the reader into the lives of the Jordan family as we meet the first Jordan bride, Aimee.
SAY GOODBYE TO YESTERDAY takes us through the life of Annabelle.
TEARS OF TWO (coming in December 2011) is a prequel to SAY GOODBYE TO YESTERDAY
MORE THAN A RUBY (coming out in 2012) takes us through the life of Suzanna.

REVIEW of SAY GOODBYE TO YESTERDAY:
4 1/2 Stars, The Romance Studio:
An inspirational novel with a different outlook than most...Connolly gave us unique glimpses into the plot so that we could see more than we realized at the time (or at least, I didn’t realize until later). Connolly is at her best while revealing the outcome of this book. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a slant to the adventurous life. You will definitely not be bored.
Brief Blurb:
Unwed mother of two beautiful daughters, after getting booted from the community and her uncle's church, is about to make another distrastrous mistake.
ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:

After the warm and sweet, lingering kiss that followed, Annabelle blinked her eyes, catching sight of the ring on the major's left hand. She instantly withdrew herself, lowering her chin.
"I shouldn't be allowing any of this. It's wrong. 'm sorry."

How could she have forgotten that ring and what Cousin Philip had told her? How could she have been so thoughtless? Not only was this man of strong faith, he had a wife of his own.

"I -- I...please forgive me." Annabelle's heart fell into her stomach.

"No, Annabelle," Carlton said, trying to clasp her hands into his again. "It was my doing. I didn't mean to invade your space. My intentions were--"
"You didn't invade my space. I invaded yours. I caused you to--" She studied the ring he wore with more interest, feeling her cheeks flush hotter. "And you a married man."

"Me, married?" Carlton gave her a bewildered gaze then caught sight of his ring. "Oh, that. Let me explain."

PUBLISHER'S BUY LINK : http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-195/Shirley-Connolly-Kiger-Say/Detail.bok
FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:
WEBSITE:
http://www.shirleykigerconnolly.com
TWITTER:
https://twitter.com/#!/Shirleyhere
FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Shirley-Kiger-Connolly-Author-Page/155515914463370
GOOD READS:
http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5708799-shirleyhere-connolly

Budapest Moon Series; Book 3, Danube in Candlelight by Stephanie Burkhart

2011-10-31T08:33:00.001-07:00

DANUBE IN CANDLELIGHT
Avail: 1 Nov 2011 - Tomorrow!

REVIEWS:
5 Stars, Reader's Favorite:
This story is the closest I have ever come to reading a book that feels like a movie!

Book Trailer on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgzUIHCRN0I

BLURB:
Set in Budapest 1922, The Hungarians are recovering from the war. Adam Varga is Hungarian to the bone and becomes an architect to help rebuild his nation. Morgan Duma returns from England also intent on helping to rebuild her country.

After a tragedy happens to her mother, Morgan discovers her father is a werewolf. She begins to question who she is, becoming more reckless, moredaring, and her choices more bold. When Zoltan Kristos, a known werewolf, requests Morgan accompany him to the summer ball, Morgan has to decide which man will best fit her life.

ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:

Morgan drew in a deep breath as the knot in her shoulder tensed. Adam had a point. How could she be so self-centered, dwelling on her high-strung emotions? Perhaps it was a cover. Perhaps she couldn't face the real issue because it mortified her. She didn't want to think about it now. Morgan turned her head away and reached over her shoulder to massage that tension-filled knot.

"Turn around." Adam's voice brooked no debate. She liked a man who commanded authority. Morgan turned, and he massaged both her shoulders. Heat from his hands trailed down her back. Her core warmed. Her body relaxed, reacting instinctively and with a desire she couldn't hide.

"Did I hit a nerve?" he asked.

"A nerve? In my neck?" She took a step backward to be closer to him.

"No. About your father. Is your real fear about what will happen to your mother once he turns her?" Adam kept his voice low and leaned close to her ear.

She closed her eyes briefly and faced her anxiety. "Yes."

"Morgan, our fathers' condition has a host of positive traits -- heightened senses, for example, but the best trait is the healing factor."

"I understand, Adam. That healing factor will help my mother recover from her awful injuries, but it comes with a tradeoff -- she's going to become a werewolf."

"Is it better she become addicted to morphine? That addiction is a beast in itself. Which would you prefer she'd become? The soldiers hooked on morphine have vacant eyes, and their hands tremble for their next fix. Do you want that for your mother? Fighting something she can't win against, or do you want her dealing with a manageable condition? Both our fathers are good men. They've managed it."

Morgan pursed her lips. Adam's tone was laced in objectivity and confidence, offering her a plausible reason for her father's actions. Morgan didn't want a shell of skin and bones that resembled her mother -- she wanted her mother well, both emotionally and physically.
Why had she been so selfish not to see that?

"It doesn't bother you that you have these traits?"

"I'm comfortable with who I am."

Morgan spun around, pressing the length of her body against Adam, curving her hand around the nape of his neck, and bringing his lips to hers. Their mouths met in a searing kiss full of desire. Want. Warmth. Pleasure replaced Morgan's emotional pain, and she deepened the kiss between them by sweeping her tongue into his mouth.

Adam groaned, wrapped his hands around her waist, and tugged her closer. Morgan continued the kiss, nipping his lower lip with her teeth. A blast of heat from his body washed over her like an ocean wave, sending pleasure spiraling through her. God, she had never felt so wonderful.

He threaded his hand through her hair and then yanked her head back. His mouth fell to her neck. Shivers of delight followed the hard, demanding kisses he placed on her skin.
"Adam, God, don't stop..."

He did just that. He withdrew his hand from her hair, sliding it down the side of her body to rest at her waist. She looked into his golden eyes blazing with the flames of desire.
Adam drew in a deep breath.

"Damn, Morgan, I am a man, and I have more control than that."

She placed her hand over his heart. "You enjoyed it. Don't deny it."

PUBLISHER'S BUY LINK: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-219/Budapest-Moon-Book-III/Detail.bok

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:
WEBSITE:
http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

TWITTER:
http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart

FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stephanie-Burkhart-Author/149938795021166

GOOD READS:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart

Sky Castles Series

2011-10-30T19:32:00.000-07:00

My Sky Castles series are fantasy novels set in an alternate world. There are three books

Blue and Silver - Book One
Approaching the airborne estate by transport gave Caishel a superb overall view of the grounds and showed the magnificence of the huge stone castle. She’d read in one of her ‘borrowed’ scrolls it was supposed to be a true copy of the buildings from the home of the ancients, but that was stupid! Nobody knew where the ancients had come from all those centuries ago, so how could they know what their homes had been like?
Review
"Ms. Perkins has created a highly detailed, intricate world. At times, it reads more like a historical romance than a paranormal, but in the end, the magic is essential to the furtherance of the plot. Though at times the pacing is slow, this allows the reader a full picture of this new vista and the people who live there." -Amanda Killgore, Independent reviewer

Russet and Gold - Book Two
The feet of the creature didn’t touch the floor as it floated gracefully towards her. Lise shrank back against the bare stone wall. The spirit came abreast of her and stopped. Large limpid eyes turned in her direction. She held her breath, terrified her stepfather’s tales were true and her soul would be taken from her, leaving her an empty husk.
“Hello.” The spirit's green eyes smiled at her, although its lips didn’t move.
“Hello,” Lise gasped in response.
The spirit nodded and continued down the stairs. Lise sagged with relief and hurriedly continued her climb before the full impact of what she’d seen registered in her mind. The being’s lips remained still when the eyes smiled, and they had not moved when it spoke. The words had come directly into her brain!
Review
“Russet and Gold is book two of the Sky Castles series. This is perhaps a tad misleading, as it's far more original than most ‘series’ type books are – with little dependence on the earlier tale (although it does revisit some characters very nicely.)Fantasy fans will enjoy Perkin’s ‘Sky Castle’ books, without doubt. 4 Books!” Long and Short Reviews

Ebony and Ivory - Book Three
A deadly plague attacks the Eos, forcing Robard and Tazia to put aside the intimacy problems in their arranged marriage. Robard organises the Dukes of Hejmen to assist in the crisis. Meanwhile Tazia becomes the telepathic holder of the Eos history and hears rumours of a lost tribe of the spirits. Their only hope of discovering a cure is to find these spirits. Failure means the extinction of both the Eos and humans.
Review
“I quite enjoyed this book. Overall, a very relaxing read of what seems to be a pure fantasy genre. While nothing stands out as WOW, I would read more of this world and from this author. This is the third in a series but very readable as a standalone. However, I possibly would have been more pulled into the story if I’d read the first two. This book is very enjoyable but not stunning because a lot of the storyline was predictable.” 4 Tombstones, Bitten By Books Reviews

Thanks Tami for giving me the chance to promote my series.

Mists of Time Viking Series.

2011-10-30T12:57:00.000-07:00

Series blurb: Four Dark Age brothers, a leader, a trader, a farmer and a warrior. Loyal Norsemen destined to find love in extraordinary places and Times...

Review snippet:

Long and Short Reviews

Tami Dee draws the reader into her beautiful world and keeps you enthralled until the end.

Book one: Under A Viking Moon

Buy link: http://www.tamidee.com/id48.html

Book two: Dawn of A Viking Sunrise

Buy link: http://www.tamidee.com/id49.html

Book three: Beyond A Viking Horizon

Buy link: http://www.tamidee.com/id50.html

Book four: Through A Viking Mist

Buy link: http://www.tamidee.com/id51.html

My web site: www.tamidee.com

Welcome to Once Upon A Series...

2011-10-30T12:48:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my brand new shiny blog! All authors with a series, (backlist, current, or future releases) are welcome to post their series information here. This is not so much an interactive blog, more of an informational one, for our readers benefit.

Comments are welcome of course.

Please note, this is not a review site. I would like this to be a positive place for series authors to post and readers to enjoy.