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9/11/14
9/10/14
Giveaway Teaser Tour THE FORSAKEN HEART by BRENDA GAYLE @Brenda_Gayle @candacemom2two
I'm excited to announce the release of The Forsaken Heart by Brenda Gayle. This is the third book in The Heart's Desire series. Each book is stand-alone, although there is a story arc that runs through them and culminates in this book.
Title: THE FORSAKEN HEART
Genre, Age: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Description/Blurb: When Anna Graham marries Callum Hart she'll get both the man she loves and her uncles' agreement to take over the family ranch. Will the return of Jackson, her long-lost first love–and Cal's brother–throw it all in jeopardy?
Cal has been in love with Anna for as long as he can remember. It was he who picked up the pieces of her broken heart when Jackson disappeared years ago. His brother’s sudden reappearance, just when it seems Anna is ready to love again, is mysterious–as is his father’s casual acceptance of the prodigal son’s return.
But is something more sinister going on? Someone seems determined to prove Anna incompetent to her uncles and insincere to Cal. With an arsonist on the loose and cattle dying, old secrets are exposed, and Anna and Cal face a challenge that will test their love far more than Jackson's unexpected homecoming.
About the Author:
I've been a writer all my life but returned to my love of fiction after more than 20 years in the world of corporate communications--although some might argue there is plenty of opportunity for fiction-writing there, too. I have a Master's degree in journalism and an undergraduate degree in psychology. A fan of many genres, I am drawn to contemporary romance and enjoy creating deeply emotional stories with elements of mystery and suspense.
I live in eastern Ontario with my wonderful husband, two fabulous children, a rescued cat, two Siberian Huskies, and assorted aquatic wildlife.
Giveaway:
ebook of The Hungry Heart by Brenda Gayle, the first book in the Heart's Desire series (INT)
9/9/14
$25 Giveaway Excerpt THE SECRET BLISS OF CALLIPE IPSWICH by MARCIA LYNN McCLURE
Excerpt
Calliope silently scolded herself for having let her countenance and words reveal her secret to Blanche. The truth was that she was not as sweet on Fox Montrose as he was on her. Yet there were secrets in her heart that could never be revealed to anyone—not even to Blanche, not even to Calliope’s own sisters.
Therefore, she chose a counter maneuver with which to distract Blanche and said, “Oh, I adore Fox! I just think these things may take time, you know, for me to…to…”
“To really fall in love with him, you mean,” Blanche finished.
“Yes. Perhaps that is what I mean,” Calliope responded.
Yet as they neared the Montrose house, trepidation welled up in Calliope’s bosom, for she knew that if she hadn’t fallen in love with Fox Montrose by now, she never would. Furthermore, she didn’t want to.
A secret bliss was nestled deep inside Calliope Ipswich. It had been nestled there from nearly the moment the Ipswich family had arrived in Meadowlark Lake all those months past. And though it was a bliss she owned in knowing something about herself that even her own sisters did not know, it likewise brought her pain at times—for it was the very reason she knew she would never fall in love with Fox Montrose. Calliope’s love was already spoken for—and no one in all the wide world, save Calliope Ipswich herself, would ever know it.
The Secret Bliss of Calliope Ipswich by Marcia Lynn McClure“Oh! Do link arms with me, Calliope,” Blanche whispered, her brown eyes widening with apprehension. She took Calliope’s arm, tightly linking it with her own. “The old Mulholland house still gives me the willies every time I walk past it. I hate to think on what might have gone on inside. It’s truly terrifyin’!”
“Oh, don’t be silly, Blanche,” Calliope said, feigning calm. “Poor Prudence’s lunacy…it’s sad. And besides, her fiendish acts were not committed inside the house. There’s nothing wrong with it. It’s just…it’s just a sad, empty building.” Calliope Ipswich felt the hypocrite, however, as an uncomfortable shiver of residual dread and unease shuttered down her spine,
More than six months had passed since the All Hollow’s Eve when the dangerous state of Prudence Mulholland’s fracturing mind had been revealed to the townsfolk of Meadowlark Lake. And now, each time Calliope thought of poor Prudence and her family, not only did her heart ache for their family’s unhappy lot but a chill of lingering horror rippled through her being.
In truth, at times Calliope wondered if it had all been simply a bad dream—a nightmare. But it hadn’t. It really had happened—all of it.
Purchase your copy on
Author Marcia Lynn McClureMarcia Lynn McClure’s intoxicating succession of novels, novellas, and e-books, has established her as one of the most favored and engaging authors of true romance. Her unprecedented forte in weaving captivating stories of western, medieval, regency, and contemporary amour void of brusque intimacy has earned her the title “The Queen of Kissing.”
Marcia, who was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has spent her life intrigued with people, history, love, and romance. A wife, mother, grandmother, family historian, poet, and author, Marcia Lynn McClure spins her tales of splendor for the sake of offering respite through the beauty, mirth, and delight of a worthwhile and wonderful story.
Blog Tour Giveaway
$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 9/24/14
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
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$100 Book Blast JUBILEE'S JOURNEY by BETTE LEE CROSBY @BetteLeeCrosby @TooBusyReading
Jubilee’s Journey by Bette Lee CrosbyJUBILEE’S JOURNEY…FPA PRESIDENT’S BOOK AWARD GOLD MEDAL WINNER
When tragedy strikes a West Virginia coal mining family, two children start out on a trek that they hope will lead them to a new life. Before a day passes, the children are separated and the boy is caught up in a robbery not of his making. If his sister can find him, she may be able to save him. The problem is she’s only seven years old, and who’s going to believe a kid?
Reviewer Praise:
An uplifting story of hope, love and the kindness of strangers. Rainy Day Ramblings
I was drawn in from the first page and held captive to the end. Jubilee’s Journey makes you believe in the power of the human spirit and the kindness of strangers. The Caffeinated Reviewer
Real both in circumstances and dialogue Jubilee’s Journey is a book that will have you up late to finish. It will make you believe that you can triumph over tragedy. Mrs. Mommy Booknerd
Crosby’s novels touch my heart big time, and Jubilee’s Journey is no exception. Even the Grinch would be hard-pressed to scowl at the Wyattsville Series books. They’ve got tension and suspense in their mysteries, Southern charm and lessons aplenty. Popcorn Reads
Purchase Your Copy
Amazon * Barnes & Noble * iTunes * Kobo
Excerpts – Popular Highlights:
" His death came as no surprise to anyone. He was one of the countless men forever lost to the mine. They were men loved and mourned by their families, but to the world they were faceless, nameless people, not worthy of mention in the Charleston Times."
“When Jubilee said she was scared going to a place she didn’t know, I told her not to worry. I said it was a good thing ‘cause we was going to see an aunt we never even knew we had. Then she started smiling. The whole time I was telling her how good everything was gonna be, I was wishing I had someone to tell me the same thing.”
“I guess God looks past what you claim to want and gives you what you need.”
“We can plan ahead until we’re blue in the face, but regardless of what we do events will happen as they will. The truth is we don’t have a bean of say in the matter.”
Author Bette Lee CrosbyAward-winning novelist Bette Lee Crosby brings the wit and wisdom of her Southern Mama to works of fiction—the result is a delightful blend of humor, mystery and romance along with a cast of quirky charters who will steal your heart away.
“Storytelling is in my blood,” Crosby laughingly admits, “My mom was not a writer, but she was a captivating storyteller, so I find myself using bits and pieces of her voice in most everything I write.”
Crosby’s work was first recognized in 2006 when she received The National League of American Pen Women Award for a then unpublished manuscript. Since then, she has gone on to win another fifteen literary awards, including the Royal Palm Literary Award, The Reviewer’s Choice Award, and the FPA President’s Book Award Gold Medal.
A third book in her Wyattsville Series is scheduled for release in January 2015 and the third book in the Serendipity Series will follow in the Spring of 2015.
BookBlast Giveaway
$100 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 10/3/14
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
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9/5/14
$50 Book Blast THE SENDING by JANDY SALGUERO @JandySalguero @TooBusyReading
THE SENDING by JANDY SALGUERO
Excerpt
As one of the hawks flew across the tiny plane of space framed by her window, Mara closed her eyes. She envisioned herself there, experiencing the grace and the power of their movements. She imagined the control of that journey and thought that one day she might have that type of power over her own fate.
Mara felt a kinship with the graceful hunter. It knew the thrill of conquest coupled with the need for survival: opposite sides of the same implacable coin. The compound had taught Mara to use that need to a greater advantage than she had before.
Her chest tightened. Before? No, there was no before. Everything was after.
After her home had been raided, after her family had been killed, after she had been forced to fend for herself. She’d had only the passive help of a few others who had suffered the same fate, who had used her as much as she had been forced to use them.
She was a young six years when she lost her family. The memories of their life together had quickly begun to fade into the cruel background of her new life, into an icy, nearly paralyzing bath of hunger and fear.
The fear had covered everything. It had even blanketed the things that had seemed gentle and innocent to her before, so that nothing was safe. For a long time, the fear had ruled her with a cold, hard hand.
The SendingA city's peace is shattered when two university students go missing, and only Daneel and his friends know the shocking truth of what happened. Finding themselves under attack, Daneel leads them in a race to escape the mounting violence.
Mara is willing to kill for the beliefs of the faction that raised her. But as she seeks out her mark, using a rare, mystical form of travel known as the Sending, Mara discovers a powerful connection that challenges the truth of everything she’s been taught.
While Daneel fights to protect those he cares for, Mara must choose whether to cling to the ideology of her home—or open her scarred heart to a searing attraction and the promise of a new life.
Praise for The Sending
The Sending reads like a dystopian Romeo and Juliet where strong, full characters from very different places inevitably collide with passion and conflict. Salguero fills a fresh, vibrant world with a nerve-tingling fast plot. Prepare to be immersed. ~Tamara Ward, author of Hidden Betrayal
The Sending is a thrilling, fast-paced, science fiction-romance that's impossible to put down. Edge-of-your-seat action scenes, and a romantic attraction so intense that it will make you want to turn down the air conditioning, The Sending is a great read that left me hungry for more. I loved this book!
~Sterling R. Walker, author of The Orphan Ship
Purchase Your Copy
Author Jandy Salguero
Growing up in southern Louisiana, Jandy Salguero's life was full of friendly smiles, good food and tall tales. She holds a BA in French from Brigham Young University, where she met her husband in the midst of the great Rocky Mountains. She now resides in a small town outside of Raleigh, NC. Her days are full of grade-school antics and underfoot toddler toys-- courtesy of her two handsome boys.
She is currently working on Book 2 in the Senitha's Light series, due out in early 2015.
BookBlast Giveaway
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 10/3/14
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
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9/4/14
Cover Reveal AFTER DAY ONE by BEJAMIN LEVI SEIMS @writeawaybliss
After Day One by Benjamin Levi Seims
Publisher: Booktrope
Expected Publication: December 9, 2014
Genre: Dystopian, Science Fiction, Action & Adventure
2083, John Howe a genetic, and cybernetic, enhanced cyber operations solider who came home After Day One only to find the country he fought for broken, and his wife and son murdered. By 2096 he rebuilt his home and was trying to live a comfortable life on the outskirts of the Free Territories, the Pacific North West.That was before Sierra and Quinn. The twin thirteen year old orphans he was saddled with the minute he saved them from a fat, greasy, gypsy couple holding them. Now he’s a man who is just trying to get rid of them before they all end up dead.
As fate would have it, a super soldier and two kids with abilities that could save the country, and maybe earth, are going to be hard to separate.
The world is fragmented and looking for a hero. Some heroes come in rough packaging.
About the Author
I live in Wenatchee, WA with my wife and our three teenage boys. I work full time as a Cardiac Nurse and I am currently an Officer in the Washington Army National Guard. After Day One is my first full length Novel and is the first book in a planned trilogy.
9/3/14
Interview Giveaway IN BED WITH A ROGUE by SAMANTHA GRACE @SamGraceAuthor @SourcebooksCasa
1. Do you have a secret talent?
Hmm… I don’t know if this counts as a talent, but I’m good with voice recognition. Even if I’ve only spoken with someone once, I can usually recognize him or her on the phone. Then again, I thought my cat was my daughter calling out for me the other day, so maybe I’m not so great at it after all.
2. Is there a song that really reminds you of your book?
I know some authors have playlists or theme songs for their books, but I’ve only had two instances when I’ve associated a song with one of my books. I think this is a fun question, however, so I started thinking about what song would fit and “I’m Sexy and I Know it” popped into my head. It’s the perfect theme song for Sebastian, because he is sexy and he knows it, but he is also playful and not afraid to look silly if it means entertaining others.
3. What was the easiest thing about writing this book?
I think it was typing “the end”. I loved the characters from the start. I love the story. I knew what needed to happen to resolve the tension and worry created for Sebastian in the previous book, but this was a hard book to write. I really can’t put my finger on why this one was a struggle, but I’m so pleased with the overall result.
4. Is there a word you love to use?
Asinine. It seems appropriate for a lot of situations.
5. Any real or imaginary pets?
We have a coonhound mix named Dani that we adopted nine years ago, and a 12-year-old calico cat named Mattie. Of course, they get different names when we take a trip to the vet. We have the Nervous Drooler and Kitty Crabbypants.
Thanks so much for having me here today. This was a lot of fun. I look forward to chatting with everyone. I love these questions and wondered if I could ask readers what their secret talent is. (WARNING: It will no longer be a secret after today.)
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest
Bio:
Historical romance author Samantha Grace discovered the appeal of a great love story when she was just a young girl, thanks to Disney's Robin Hood. She didn't care that Robin Hood and Maid Marian were cartoon animals. It was her first happily-ever-after experience and she didn't want the warm fuzzies to end. Now Samantha enjoys creating her own happy-endings for characters that spring from her imagination. Publisher's Weekly describes her stories as "fresh and romantic" with subtle humor and charm. Samantha describes romance writing as the best job ever.
Part-time hospice social worker, moonlighting author, and pilates nut, she enjoys a happy and hectic life with her real life hero and two kids in the Midwest.
In Bed with a Rogue
By Samantha Grace
Soucebooks Casablanca
Historical Romance
September 2, 2014
ISBN: 9781402286612
$6.99/£4.99
Mass-Market Paperback
He’s the Talk of the Town
The whole town is tittering about Baron Sebastian Thorne having been jilted at the altar. Every move he makes ends up in the gossip columns. Tired of being the butt of everyone’s jokes, Sebastian vows to restore his family’s reputation no matter what it takes.
She’s the Toast of the Ton
Feted by the crème of society, the beautiful widow Lady Prestwick is a vision of all that is proper. But Helena is no angel, and when Sebastian uncovers her dark secret, he’s quick to press his advantage. In order to keep her hard-won good name, Helen will have to make a deal with the devil. But she’s got some tricks up her sleeves to keep this notorious rogue on his toes…
Historical romance author Samantha Grace discovered the appeal of a great love story when she was just a young girl, thanks to Disney’s Robin Hood. She didn’t care that Robin Hood and Maid Marian were cartoon animals. It was her first happily-ever-after experience and she didn’t want the warm fuzzies to end. Now Samantha enjoys creating her own happy-endings for characters that spring from her imagination. Publishers Weekly describes her stories as “fresh and romantic” with subtle humor and charm. Samantha describes romance writing as the best job ever.
Buy: Amazon | B&N | BAM! | IndieBound | !ndigo | iTunes
WANT TO WIN THIS AWESOME BOOK?
Ends 9/11/14
Open to anyone with a US mailing address, PO Boxes OK!
Open only to those who can legally enter
Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary.
You must be 13 or older to enter .
The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified.
The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning.
Giveaway was organized by BookHounds and sponsored by me.
VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
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Release Day Blitz Giveaway DARK REDEMPTION by ANGIE SANDRO @AngieSandro @ForeverRomance
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EXCERPT
We pull into the hospital parking
lot. None of us move from our seats. We each dread what’s coming for different
reasons. Tension radiates from Mala in waves strong enough to raise the hairs
on my arms when she clutches my hand. She’s never been comfortable in
hospitals, and now it’s worse.
Ghosts flock to her like she’s got
a homing beacon attached to her forehead. I don’t get hit with the mojo quite
as bad. I see the residual spirits. We’ve been practicing blocking them when we
train with Ferdinand. Hopefully our shielding will withstand the oncoming
barrage or we’ll be ready to punch someone in the face before we find Pepper.
“Let’s get this over with.” I
release her hand and open the door. She waits until I come around to help her
out rather than making the long jump to the ground. Her arms wrap around my
neck, and I hold her close, inhaling. Her scent wraps around my body. She
presses her nose into the side of my neck. Her warm breath blows across my
skin, and my gut tightens when she presses a kiss to the underside of my jaw.
“Hold on to me, Landry,” she
whispers. “Don’t let them get me.”
“I’ve got you. Always.”
Her lips press against mine. The
taste of her mouth with each pulse of her tongue is like honey and melted
butter. The tension in my muscles relax as the kiss deepens. My worries fade,
leaving a golden brown haze in their place.
Finally, she pulls back with a slow
inhale and whispers, “No matter how bad things feel, one kiss from you puts
everything back into perspective.”
“Too bad about our audience. If we
were alone, I’d really rock your perspective.” I give her a quick dip with a
neck nuzzle that leaves her giggling, then set her on her feet. Sophia sticks
her head out the open door. “I’m beat. I’m going to take a nap while you take
care of business.”
“Carl? You staying in the truck
too?” I ask.
“Nope!” He slams the door and races
for the entrance as if afraid we’ll call him back.
Mala threads her fingers though
mine, walking on my blind side. She’s my other half. With her next to me, I don’t
worry about crashing into unseen obstacles. My presence becomes important to
her once we enter the emergency room lobby. Her sweaty hand clenches mine. I
glance over to see her glazed eyes shut as she inhales. When the breath
releases, her eyes open.
“I’m okay,” she says with a grin.
“The shield’s holding, and Caspar is not invited to this party.”
“Good, I didn’t want to kick
not-so-friendly-ghost ass.”
Her laugh cuts off in a snort.
“Whoops.”
“You’re adorable.”
She pinches my cheek. “So are you,
sweetie.”
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About DARK REDEMPTION
Deep in the Louisiana bayou, Mala LaCroix cannot escape the mysterious things she's seen. Haunted by her otherworldly past, she only wants to hide her special abilities and care for the man she's come to love. But the dark swamp she calls home holds more than just Mala's secrets, for a killer is leaving behind ghosts trapped between worlds, hungry for vengeance . . . Landry knows Mala could never turn her back on those in need. It's part of what attracts him to her. But now that he's wrestling with his own demons-and losing-he fears that just being near the woman he loves endangers her life. And that traps him in a terrible dilemma: leave Mala alone to catch a murderer by herself or stay close-and risk entangling her in the brutal battle for his very soul.
About Angie Sandro
Angie Sandro was born at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. Within six weeks, she began the first of eleven relocations throughout the United States, Spain, and Guam before the age of eighteen. Friends were left behind. The only constants in her life were her family and the books she shipped wherever she went. Traveling the world inspired her imagination and allowed her to create her own imaginary friends. Visits to her father's family in Louisiana inspired this story. Angie now lives in Northern California with her husband, two children, and an overweight Labrador.
Angie’s Social Media
@AngieSandro
Buy Links:
Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/1pEOKIp
Google Play: http://bit.ly/1Ba1ppe
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1q7NfSc
iTunes: http://bit.ly/1oAzO84
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1qxaKTy
Google Play: http://bit.ly/1Ba1ppe
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1q7NfSc
iTunes: http://bit.ly/1oAzO84
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1qxaKTy
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9/2/14
Giveaway Interview Excerpt BITTERSWEET LOVE by J L BECK @ #BlogTour
PLEASE WELCOME J L TO BOOKHOUNDS!
1.What is the first book you remember reading by yourself as a child?
The Giving Tree. Loved that Book.
2. What are you reading right now?
The Lux Series by Jennifer Armentrout. So sad to see it end.
3. How does your garden grow?
Well not quite sure I could keep a garden alive. But I assume to just watering it with knowledge ;)
4. What is the last thing you Googled?
How to properly defuse a bomb
5. What makes you cringe?
Feet, sweat, mainly anything ew.
The Giving Tree. Loved that Book.
2. What are you reading right now?
The Lux Series by Jennifer Armentrout. So sad to see it end.
3. How does your garden grow?
Well not quite sure I could keep a garden alive. But I assume to just watering it with knowledge ;)
4. What is the last thing you Googled?
How to properly defuse a bomb
5. What makes you cringe?
Feet, sweat, mainly anything ew.
~ Synopsis ~
Betrayal.
That’s what Jenna Haines felt when she discovered that her relationship with Rex Winchester was anything but real.
With a broken heart, and a deep sadness running through her veins she picked up the pieces and forced herself to move on. After all, what better place to start fresh than at University of California, Berkeley?
That is until the day she finds out Rex got accepted to Berkeley too, and that he will be following her off to college. To add salt to the wounds, it seems as if he will do anything to win her back. With Rex, on the prowl and her heart being the prey can she resist his advances towards her?
Even more so can she move on from the vengeful things he once did and fall into a deep bittersweet love? Or will the hate, lies, and secrets break them beyond repair? Is love really capable of healing all wounds or is everything still just a lie?
That’s what Jenna Haines felt when she discovered that her relationship with Rex Winchester was anything but real.
With a broken heart, and a deep sadness running through her veins she picked up the pieces and forced herself to move on. After all, what better place to start fresh than at University of California, Berkeley?
That is until the day she finds out Rex got accepted to Berkeley too, and that he will be following her off to college. To add salt to the wounds, it seems as if he will do anything to win her back. With Rex, on the prowl and her heart being the prey can she resist his advances towards her?
Even more so can she move on from the vengeful things he once did and fall into a deep bittersweet love? Or will the hate, lies, and secrets break them beyond repair? Is love really capable of healing all wounds or is everything still just a lie?
~ Book Links ~
Bittersweet Hate Book 3 Amazon Pre-Order
~ Excerpt ~
as I’m about to get up to go to the bathroom a ‘hot as hell’
man comes sauntering up to the table. His head is held high, he’s
wearing relaxed fitted jeans, and a dark shirt, with a leather
jacket. Just as the light from the strobes shine onto to his face, I
gasp backing up into the booth. He is the last man I want to see
right now.
“Jenna.”
His voice is deep and honeyed just as I remember it. There are no
hard feelings between us now, but it doesn’t mean that being around
him doesn’t remind me of my ex. Hell, that’s his twin it’s like
looking at a clone of him.
“Ryder.”
I say hesitant. It’s impossible not to have some type of affect
when he talks to you. His voice makes you want to melt into him, to
give into every single demand he has, and he's a very demanding
man.
“Long
time no see beautiful.” I find myself leaning into him, but pull
away immediately afraid he may have noticed. He’s right, long time
no see. It’s been four months since I last talked to him. I tried
my best to ignore him but he slowly got under my skin and we created
this friendship that was easy going. He knew what it was like to be
me, and that was it.
“Don’t
call me beautiful, and sorry I’ve been busy. I didn’t even know
you were living in this area.” I was shocked by the courage in my
voice. Since Rex, I’ve been able to speak my mind and talk for
myself more. Instead of being Mimi’s shadow I create my own.
A
smile creeps onto his face, tingles go down my spine. The kind I use
to get when Rex smiled at me. Yup, there’s still an effect
there.
“But
you are beautiful so I’m just speaking the truth. As for why I’m
here, I’m sure you already know that. As you know, where Rex goes I
go. So now, I will grant you my wonderful presence.” Great. The
arrogance oozes from him reminding me of why I use to consider him an
asshole.
“That’s
great and all, but you and your brother can just go back to wherever
it is you came from. No assistance from any of the Winchester’s is
needed here.” I say as nice as humanly possible. Instead of taking
a sip of drink, I down the rest of the glass unable to deal with this
situation anymore without more alcohol in my system.
I
get up to get another drink, but am pushed back into the booth. I
look up angrily at Ryder as he smiles down at me. “Allow me to get
it for you, I'll be right back.” I ease back allowing him to do
this one thing for me. What could go wrong it’s just a drink?
In
no time he’s back with my drink, and a drink of his own. He slides
into the booth, just as I take my first sip of the beverage.
“Are
you even old enough to be drinking?” He asks. I look up at him
astonished by his question.
“Are
you?” An arrogant-assholish smile mares his face and I feel myself
getting that urge to punch him again.
“No,
but no one ever worries about whether I’m old enough to drink.”
He says, taking a gulp from his beer bottle. I glare at him over the
top of my drink, shaming Mimi for leaving me to this.
“Then
why exactly do you give a fuck?” I ask eyebrow raised, as my blood
pressure goes through the roof. For some unknown reason, when people
ask me stupid questions I feel the urge to act out violently.
“Ahh.
Like I’ve told you many a time, you’re not like the rest.” At
this point I realize I’m going to need a whole lot more Vodka to
get through the night.
“So
I’ve heard. But you don’t know me Ryder, so stop trying to lay
the moves on me, or whatever it is you're doing here. I don’t care.
I’m not buying it, so go sell your shit elsewhere.” I down the
rest of the drink much faster than needed.
The
woozy feeling of the alcohol settling is starting to affect me. The
burn of the liquor makes my eyes water and my nose burn, but I push
through, waiting for the numbness to take hold. Wow, two drinks and
I’m feeling tipsy. What a total lightweight.
“Whoa
Nelly, slow down.” He says grabbing at my glass. I bat his hand
away, wanting to get every last drop.
“I’m
not a horse.” I say, giving him the glass and wiping my mouth with
the back of my hand. Really unladylike, but zero fucks are to be
given at this time.
“I
didn’t call you a horse, I told you to slow down.” He says as if
he's annoyed. What the hell, no one asked him to babysit, hell I
don’t need a babysitter. Suddenly, I’m angry, really angry.
“Yes
you did, you called me Nelly, which is a horse’s name, I think.
Also what are you really doing here? Because I don’t need a
babysitter, I can take care of myself just fine.” I say, none too
ashamed that some of my words slurred together. Where the hell is
Mimi? I ignore Ryder and his glares as I look over the crowd below
us. The dance floor is just too full for me to spot Mimi’s sequin
top. Either that or things are starting to get blurry.
“I
need another drink, now you can either go and get me one or I’m
going and getting one.” His eyes bore into mine, and more and more
he starts to look like Rex and less and less like Ryder. I catch
myself leaning in over the table. His eyes look glassy, and I wonder
if he’s drank more since coming to this table.
“I’m
going to go and get you another drink.” He says, our noses almost
touching. His eyes meet mine, and I see the need there. It’s
startling. He pulls back just as I lean in more, I would say I was
leaning into smell him but then I would be lying. Maybe smell his
face.
He
leaves me to wallow in my sorrows. Like how I’m nineteen with
problems of the average twenty eight year old. Maybe I should create
a knitting club, or become the local hoarding cat lady.
“Here’s
your drink sweetheart.” Ryder says sliding into the seat next to
me. Or at least I think its Ryder, I can’t tell. Could be Rex for
all I know. The alcohol is affecting me in a number of
ways.
“Thanks.”
I reply grabbing it and ignoring his presence. Questions are itching
to breaking through, and with the effects of the drinking I just
can’t hold em back any longer.
“You
know, I trusted your brother. I cared about him and all he did was
rip my heart out. He’s made it not only impossible to move on but
he’s made it impossible for me to trust people. Because of him I’m
going to forever be the nineteen year old cat hoarding, knitting
lady.” I say sulking. He smiles big and wide, and then lets out a
deep belly shaking laugh; although his belly doesn’t shake, unless
his abs can but… never mind.
“You
will not forever be the cat hoarding, knitting lady; although you
would be a very adorable one.”
I
ignore his comment and whisper. “He hurt me Ryder.” I can’t
hide the emotions from my voice. Damn you vodka, damn you.
“I
know he did, but you’re only nineteen you’ll love again. The fact
that you're out and about now proves that. Don’t give up hope just
yet.” He says as if encouraging me to move on and find someone
else. The only problem is I don’t think I want to.
~ Synopsis ~
I’m a slut. Or at least that’s what everyone calls me. I guess that’s what you get when everyone think’s you've slept with the whole football team and then some.
My junior year of high school I gave my heart to Corey Winchester. He was handsome, cocky, and a pure gentlemen. Then everything changed in an instant. When I found out he was spreading malicious rumors about me, after I refused to sleep with him I was utterly surprised. To add to it, he broke up with me in front of the whole school. I essentially became the laughing stock of the town. People that I once called my friends became my enemies. Finding a way to ruin my life one day at a time. Now the shitty part is I should have known a pretty boy like him was too good to be true. After ruining my reputation and life I did everything I could to stay under the radar, but it just wasn't enough. I slowly learned that all the torment, and hate was all for one thing. Revenge. That’s what Corey wanted, and
why I didn't know. Then Rex Winchester came along. Corey’s cousin, and someone I knew I shouldn't be getting close with. A whole six feet of hotness, a smile that melted the panties off of every girl in a fifty mile radius, and a heart of gold. He could have anyone he wanted, so why he chose me Corey’s ex, the bullied, slutty girl was beyond me. All I knew was that I wanted him. I wanted him more than anything. The problem was, I couldn't tell if Rex, was just like Corey or if his intentions were as innocent as he was making them out
to be.
My names Jenna Haines, and this is the story of how the one thing I wanted.. turned out to be the one thing that would hurt me the most. What happens when the one thing you least expect to happen, does? When all the lies and secrets come out. Well you're about find out.
My junior year of high school I gave my heart to Corey Winchester. He was handsome, cocky, and a pure gentlemen. Then everything changed in an instant. When I found out he was spreading malicious rumors about me, after I refused to sleep with him I was utterly surprised. To add to it, he broke up with me in front of the whole school. I essentially became the laughing stock of the town. People that I once called my friends became my enemies. Finding a way to ruin my life one day at a time. Now the shitty part is I should have known a pretty boy like him was too good to be true. After ruining my reputation and life I did everything I could to stay under the radar, but it just wasn't enough. I slowly learned that all the torment, and hate was all for one thing. Revenge. That’s what Corey wanted, and
why I didn't know. Then Rex Winchester came along. Corey’s cousin, and someone I knew I shouldn't be getting close with. A whole six feet of hotness, a smile that melted the panties off of every girl in a fifty mile radius, and a heart of gold. He could have anyone he wanted, so why he chose me Corey’s ex, the bullied, slutty girl was beyond me. All I knew was that I wanted him. I wanted him more than anything. The problem was, I couldn't tell if Rex, was just like Corey or if his intentions were as innocent as he was making them out
to be.
My names Jenna Haines, and this is the story of how the one thing I wanted.. turned out to be the one thing that would hurt me the most. What happens when the one thing you least expect to happen, does? When all the lies and secrets come out. Well you're about find out.
~ Author Bio ~
J.L. Beck is the author of Bittersweet Revenge(A Bittersweet Novella Book 1). A four part novella series. She lives in Elroy, WI with her husband Brandon, and daughter Bella. Since the moment she could reach the shelves on the book shelf shes been reading, thus influencing her to write. Her favorite books are those that leave an imprint on your soul. You know the ones that have you putting everything off because you have to find out what happens next.
When she's not writing or reading(of course)you can find her picking up after her three year old daughter, or explaining to her husband why its unsafe to do something any other way, than the way your wife told you too.
Shes a huge fan of all things drama, with shows like The Vampire Diaries, and Arrow being some of her favorites. She's addicted to all things social media, caffeine, and Starbucks.
Stalk me, you know you want to.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jo.L.Beck?ref=hl
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorJLBeck
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/23673426-j-l-beck
~ Giveaway ~
EXCERPT $25 Giveaway THE RECKONING by TEYLA BRANTON @TeylaBranton @TooBusyReading
CHECK OUT THIS AMAZING EXCERPT AND SCROLL DOWN FOR A CHANCE TO WIN!
His lips found mine once more. I could feel exactly how he wanted to touch me, protect me, and make me laugh. His emotion filled me so full, there was no room for words. He groaned softly, lifting his lips from mine to say, “Lately, I always know what you’re feeling, even when you’re not sending it to me. Is this what you experience with others all the time?”
“Yeah. Kind of. With those who don’t block. Though I’m trying not to use my ability at the moment.” I shivered when I thought about Delia and what had just happened to me. How much time had passed since I’d touched the blue light?
His arms tightened around me. “Do you want me to come back for you later?”
“No, I want to come. Let’s go see what Habid has to say.”
Before I could twist free, he stilled, his eyes catching mine in the darkness. He brushed his lips against my cheek before he found my mouth, breathing me in for a long moment. Then he pulled back to search my eyes. “I know you’re afraid.”
I blinked at that, but before I could deny it, he squeezed my waist. “I feel it too, whenever I think of losing you, but then I remember one very important thing.” He paused as his thoughts spread through our connection, and I could see that he felt my determination every bit as much as my fear. I was scared, yes, but what we had together also made me courageous. That was what he remembered. He kissed me again, slower this time. The comfort he desperately wanted to give me ran through my body. This time when he pulled away, his touch lingered long after his lips left mine.
“You’re stronger than Delia is,” he said. “Don’t ever forget that.”
The Reckoning
Only One Can Survive The Reckoning
Erin Radkey has always known the day would come when she would have to personally confront the Triad leader of the power-hungry Emporium. But she never thought it would be with a snake in her head that feeds on her energy. Or that she’d be in the company of an uncertain ally who might turn on her at any moment.
The stakes are high as new intel uncovers a startling Emporium plot that will catapult the entire world into war. Erin is determined to save not only the mortals but also her friends—even if it means sacrificing herself and her newfound love for Ritter Langton.
Ritter is just as determined to save Erin and prevent what would usher in the most bloody century the world has ever known, but even he might not recognize the person she becomes.
Every day the enemy grows stronger. There will be no second chance.
Amazon * Barnes & Noble * iTunes * Kobo * Google Books * Google Play
Praise for The Reckoning:
I just loved the whole Saga! Well-written, completely addictive, keeps you on the edge, wanting to know what comes next! I really think the author should consider a movie or a TV series for the whole four books! For not being a SF fan, I just can say that this was AWESOME!
The fourth instalment in the Unbounded series definitely lives up to the action packed books preceding it. I love the strength of Erin's character, and the novel made for compelling reading.
The Unbounded world is a fascinating place to visit! I would recommend this series to anyone, women, men, young adults. Not overly complicated yet the author weaves an amazing tail. I can hardly wait to see what is next for the Unbounded!
Book #1 The Change is FREE.
“Surprising plot twists” -Publishers Weekly
Grab your FREE copy today!
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Author Teyla Rachel BrantonTeyla Rachel Branton grew up avidly reading science fiction and fantasy and watching Star Trek reruns with her large family. They lived on a little farm where she loved to visit the solitary cow and collect (and juggle) the eggs, usually making it back to the house with most of them intact. On that same farm she once owned thirty-three gerbils and eighteen cats, not a good mix, as it turns out. Teyla always had her nose in a book and daydreamed about someday creating her own worlds. She is now married, mostly grown up, and has seven kids, including a two-year-old, so life at her house can be very interesting (and loud), but writing keeps her sane. She thrives on the energy and daily amusement offered by her children, the semi-ordered chaos giving her a constant source of writing material. Grabbing any snatch of free time from her hectic life, Teyla writes novels, often with a child on her lap. She warns her children that if they don’t behave, they just might find themselves in her next book! She’s been known to wear pajamas all day when working on a deadline, and is often distracted enough to burn dinner. (Okay, pretty much 90% of the time.) A sign on her office door reads: DANGER. WRITER AT WORK. ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK. She loves writing fiction and traveling, and she hopes to write and travel a lot more. She also loves shooting guns, martial arts, and belly dancing. She has worked in the publishing business for over twenty years.
Blog Tour Giveaway
$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 9/18/14
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the publisher. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
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