Sunday, December 30, 2012

Feasted On: Dark Kings Series, Book 0.3

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 309 KB | Release Date: September 25, 2012 | Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Dawn’s Desire" [Dark Kings Series, Book 0.3] by Donna Grant

My Book Summary : After watching his friends and fellow Dragon Kings give in to their emotions and fall in love Banan makes a pact with himself that, what happened to his friends will never happen to him. However, once he lays eyes on Jane that pact gets harder to hold to by the second.

Jane knows she isn't any unique beauty that would hold any guys interest, at least not for long. So, when she meets Banan, she feels like she's the most beautiful girl in the world. Their connection is instantaneous and burns hotter than ever. Nevertheless, will Banan allow his growing feelings for Jane get in the way of his duty to his fellow dragons, even if that means putting Jane's life on the line?

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars!! Follow Banan, as he finds a way to protect his "people" while falling in love for the first time. I could not get enough of Jane & Banan!! Jane seems to be the type of person who everyone could easily forget, that is except for Banan who cannot seem to get her off his mind! Plus, I enjoyed the intensity between Banan and Jane that happened throughout this novella while the plot flowed effortlessly around them!

It's a very suspenseful and spicy novella that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys paranormal romances! Especially ones with HOT dragon shifters in them!!

- On a side note -
I'm curious if Jane's half-sister is going to be more involved throughout this series then her just being mentioned in this one. Since I really enjoyed getting to know Jane & Banan I hope to read more about them!

Also -- I'm curious as to who Con & Rhys will end up with. =0)

And --- I LOVED this novella's cover!!!

Author's Novel Extras : Book Excerpt | Book Awards | Learn More About Banan! | NYT & USA Today Bestseller

Book Teaser(s) :
Banan met her gaze. “What’s that?”
“This is about more than stealing a recipe for scotch, isn’t it? I need to know, because I’ve this feeling that this isn’t just my job on the line.”
“You’re no’ wrong,” Banan said.
“Damn. Have you gathered any information on who could be in it with Richard?”
Banan leaned forward so that his forearms rested on his thighs. “Nay. Elena is making her way through those closest to Arnold. So far, she’s found nothing.”
“If I’m going to do this, how do I contact you if I find anything?”
“I’ll give you my, Rhys’s, and Elena’s mobile numbers. And wherever you are, I’ll be close by. I can reach you quickly if you’re in danger.”
Jane grabbed for her wine and drained it in three swallows. It burned as it slid down her throat, but she needed something to steady her after all she’d learned.
“The fact you just said that, Banan, tells me how dangerous this is going to be. Richard is connected to influential families. Money, politics, and God only knows what else. He’s not a man to be messed with.”
“Let us worry about that,” Banan said with a smile that promised Richard would suffer.
Jane just wished she knew what was so important that Banan, Rhys, and Elena would risk their lives to protect Dreagan for it.
Rhys touched her shoulder, and she turned, startled, because she hadn’t heard him move.
“You are doing a brave thing, Jane,” Rhys said.
Jane swallowed, wishing she had more wine in her glass. “Stop talking now or I might chicken out of this whole thing.”
Just as she was about to get up, Banan leaned over and placed his hand atop her. “Thank you.”
Her heart skipped a beat at his husky timbre. It hurt that he wasn’t attracted to her, but the letdown wasn’t anything she wasn’t accustomed to. She was Plain Jane after all. ~ within Chapter 6
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Donna, then please check out her website.

Saturday, December 29, 2012

Disappointmentville: Gypsy Lovers Series, Book 3

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 128 KB | Release Date: June 14, 2012 | Publisher: Breathless Press | Obtained: Amazon.com

"The Gypsy and the Widow" [Gypsy Lovers Series, Book 3] by Juliet Chastain

My Book Summary : Now that Joanna's husband has died her life has been turned upside down, because of how he gambled all of their savings and property away. However, her husband's friend, Sir Edward, is "kind" enough to help her out with his servant to assist her on a daily basis and has recently announced his willingness to marry her once the time is right.

Yet even though Sir Edward's proposal would help Joanna with any financial troubles and give Joanna's son a father figure for him to look up too, Joanna's heart and wants belong to someone else--Tem--a handsome gypsy who seems to be a kinder man then she had ever met before. The problem for both of them is that neither of their wants (they'd like to be together) coexist with the beliefs they've grown up with. Can they overcome a lot of prejudices about each other's "people" so they can get what they both really want? Or will Sir Edward, Tem's Gypsy clan, and the beliefs they've grown up to believe get in the way of it all?

My Book Review : 2.5 out of 5 stars. Two people from opposite worlds find a way to make things work out between them during unusual circumstances.

I had such high hopes for this novella ever since I did a promo for it earlier this year. However, even though I knew it was a short story before I even started it, it rushed through everything so quickly that it was hard to thoroughly enjoy the chemistry between Tem & Joanna as much as I would have liked. Plus, the ending wrapped up everything very unrealistically for me to enjoy it.

I wish I could recommend this novella to you but I can't. So, I'll only recommend it if you are a fan of Ms. Chastain and/or this series.

Author's Novel Extras : Book Excerpt

Book Teaser(s) :
There is no need to dress with such care just to cross the meadow to the field. He will be busy—working like the others. Against her will, she remembered how he had smiled at her yesterday. How somehow he had reminded her that she was a woman with the desires of her sex.
All she sought today were playmates for Nash, she told herself firmly. And besides, there was no harm in seeking the comfort of another person who had been widowed, but she knew that wasn’t true. She needed no comfort for the loss of her husband. What she wanted, wrong or right, was to have a few moments with him, Tem Lovell.
She shook her head. I must not think of Tem Lovell. I shall marry Sir Edward who has always been so considerate of myself. He neither drinks nor gambles and I will have no worries. For a moment she remembered her anger when he had shouted at the Gypsy children and called them foul names. He was but thinking of my well-being; it was perhaps neither appropriate to allow them inside, nor to play that way with them. She smiled. In truth she had like playing with them. She had liked their infectious laughter. She had liked the way they included Nash in their games. She had like the way they tried to speak English to her, even the smallest among them, little Eleanor.
And I liked the way Tem swung the children in the air and laughed with them. But no, she must not think like this. I must not think of Tem. And I must not think of him as Tem; he is Mr. Lovell to me.
She would stay out there while Nash played. That way she would know he was safe. And, perhaps Tem will speak with me—
“No! I will not think like that, I must not,” she said aloud. ~ within Chapter 2
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Juliet, then please check out her website.

Made the Grade: Raptors Revealed Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 350 KB | Release Date: November 2009 | Publisher: Ellora's Cave Publishing | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Feather Down" [Raptors Revealed Series, Book 1] by Lorie O'Clare

My Book Summary : Dover is an owl everyone goes to, to settle disputes among the species so they can (hopefully) keep the peace among them all. He was recently asked to fly to Banff so he could find out what the tension brewing between the species is all about and see if he can stop it. However, as soon as he pulls into town he finds himself getting distracted and a bit sidelined by Lana. She's an attractive female owl from a local and powerful nest that Dover cannot seem to get enough of, especially after their first meeting. Yet what will Dover do when he finds out that Lana has been keeping secrets from him so she can protect her nest (aka her family) that seems to be behind all of the tension in Banff to begin with...

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars, this is a novel about a man/owl shifter finding his mate and trying to prove to her that she is exactly the one he wants. It's a spicy and suspenseful novel that keeps you on your toes! I liked Lana & Dover together, their chemistry sparked off the page. Plus, I enjoyed finding out the dynamics going on in Lana's nest and in Banff.

The only thing I wished I liked more about this novel was how the plot played out, since it wasn't as straightforward as I would have liked. Not that I would have wanted to know how this novel was going to end right away, I just wish I could have liked what was going on around Banff and Lana's nest more so then what happened.

Overall, though, I recommended this novel to anyone who likes reading shifter romances, especially ones with unique breeds.

Book Teaser(s) :
His mouth opened wider, his fingers stroking her neck, encouraging her to take more of him. Lana greeted his deepening of the kiss with eagerness and her tongue moved with his, as if there were some sacred dance involved with kissing that she’d always known and forgotten until this moment. It was too much enduring the craving that grew inside her. At this rate he would make her come with a fucking kiss.
Focusing on the fact Heath would probably return soon, expecting her and her brothers to be here, helped ground her. Although even with that knowledge, tearing her mouth from his was harder to do than she thought. Not because he held her chin, keeping her where he wanted her, but because she didn’t want to end it.
Life sucked when she couldn’t have what she wanted. Lana forced her head to the side, taking on a bit of aggression of her own, and dragged in a deep breath. She inhaled the mixed aroma of their lust. It was intoxicating.
And the first thing anyone would smell when they walked through her door.
Crap!
Lana pushed against Dover’s chest. An overwhelming sense of satisfaction washed over her when she searched his face as she shoved and saw how dazed he appeared. His need and cravings got the best of him too. Another time and with another male capturing so much emotion on his face would be a hardcore turn-off. And it disappeared as she studied him, his cool, collected expression once again in place.
She wouldn’t grin, wouldn’t embarrass either one of them. Knowing she controlled him more than originally she might have believed was good enough. ~ within Chapter 7
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Lorie, then please check out her website.

Friday, December 28, 2012

Blog Tour - Feasted On: The Billionaire's Christmas Baby by Victoria James | Interview & Review

Today & for most of tomorrow I'm turning my blog over to Victoria James, who I interviewed about her debut novel "The Billionaire's Christmas Baby!!"



My Q&A with Victoria James :

Jess : What books did you enjoy reading while growing up?

Victoria : My favorites were-Little House on the Prairie, then Nancy Drew, and then as a teenager I fell in love with historical romance; Judith McNaught being my all-time favorite author.

Jess : What do you do when you are not writing?

Victoria : Mostly family stuff. We have small children and it seems like there’s always something going on! But when I’m not doing ‘kid-stuff’ I’m putting my interior design background to use-I’m always rearranging furniture and pictures in our house. I still do freelance work as well. I love seasonal decorating. Basically, I drive my husband nuts, because he hates change...and thing are always changing!

Jess : Which of your characters would you most & least like to invite to dinner, from which book and why?

Victoria : Well, since it’s Christmas, I wouldn’t mind heading up to that remote cabin in “TBCB” and having Christmas with Jackson, Hannah, baby Emily and the Sampson’s! I’m sure our kids would get along fine, while we grownups shared a glass or two of Jackson’s favorite scotch... :)

Jess : Please describe "The Billionaire’s Christmas Baby" in 75 words or less.

Victoria : Jackson Pierce had a perfect childhood-until a death changed everything. The tragedy shattered his family. He grew to hate the holidays, and everything that reminded him of the people he had lost. Hannah Woods grew up with nothing. Yet, it’s Hannah who teaches him the importance of family ties, the power of forgiveness. Somehow, they must overcome their pasts and find a way to be the family that both of them secretly desire...

Jess : Which usually comes first for you, the character(s) story or the idea for the novel?

Victoria : A little bit of both. Sometimes it’s a place, a person, or a scene. The book I’m writing now was inspired by a picture of a French castle I came across in a magazine. I started wondering about what kind of person would own a place like that-and what kind of person would absolutely not own a place a like that. So now I’m writing about two very different people, stranded together in the French Alps, in a breathtaking castle!

Jess : What sparked the idea for "The Billionaire’s Christmas Baby?"

Victoria : A few years ago, surrounded by my extended family, I started wondering about how much of whom I was today, was shaped by the people around me. I had always known the love of parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, cousins. But what if I hadn’t? How would that have changed me? And that thought triggered the characters in "THE BILLIONAIRE’S CHRISTMAS BABY." How would different people react to the holidays if they didn’t have a family? If they had no one? Would they build walls around themselves? Or would they be in a perpetual search for a soul-mate, for love? The hero and heroine that took shape in my mind became larger than life. Their pain, their need for acceptance and unconditional love tugged at my heartstrings until I was forced to find a way to create a happily-ever-after for the three of them! And of course, it would have to take place during the holidays!

Jess : What is the most romantic thing one of your characters, from "The Billionaire’s Christmas Baby," said or did?

Victoria : I think when Jackson secretly plans the romantic wedding for Hannah at the chapel.

It was completely unexpected and showed how much Hannah came to mean to him. The dress, the flowers, the connection to his past. He’s a keeper!!

Jess : What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write and why?

Victoria : I loved writing the opening, when Hannah first intrudes on Jackson and then he feels forced to go outside in the storm and convince her to stay at the cabin. It was fun to put them in a situation where they were completely at odds with each other, and neither of them had any idea where this meeting would take them.

Jess : In regards to "The Billionaire’s Christmas Baby," if you could write it all over again, would you change anything about it?

Victoria : I think I would have loved to make it longer. I loved Hannah and Jackson and would have liked more time with them. It would have been nice to have spent longer with them after they were married, and with Emily.

Jess : If "The Billionaire’s Christmas Baby" were to be made into a film, who do you see playing the main characters and why?

Victoria : Christian Bale would play Jackson Pierce. I think because he has the brooding looks and the killer smile that I identify with Jackson. Anne Hathaway would be Hannah because she has vulnerability yet a very strong aura to her as well.


Jess : How many books have you written? Which is your favorite and why?

Victoria : Well, I’ve sold three books, but I’d say I’ve written five complete manuscripts I think....favorite-that’s hard! I think whichever one I’m working on becomes my favorite :)

Jess : Do you have any other projects in the works? If so, can you share a little of your current work with us?

Victoria : Sure! Right now I’m revising my next book-it’s the first book in a trilogy of brothers. It’s set in a small town and follows each of the brothers as they fall in love, find themselves, and reveal some of the deep/dark family secrets that have impacted their lives.

Jess : Do you have a favorite aspect of winter or tradition in your family during Christmas that you can tell us about?

Victoria : Growing up in a North-American-Italian family, the holidays were always filled with an abundance of family, food, and drama. Cousins, grandparents, aunts, uncles, parents, would gather. The crowd was loud and the toasts with homemade wine were plenty.

This year, I’m hosting Christmas Eve dinner for approximately fifteen of our nearest and dearest. I have hosted Christmas Eve before, but I haven’t done the full-blown deal. This year, I’m going to cook up a big old, traditional Italian Christmas Eve dinner. All seven fish dishes. I can do it...I hope! The day after I told my husband my plan? He bought a fire extinguisher.

Jess : Did you get all of your Christmas shopping done early this year or are you a last minute shopper?

Victoria : I usually try and have all my shopping done early. This year was the exception. I ended up so busy with this book release, plus the editing for my next book. I’ve fallen behind, so I think I’m going to get the rest of the shopping done online!

Jess : If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be?

Victoria : "Victoria James: A Work in Progress"

Jess : List 3 books you just recently read and would recommend?

Victoria : "Kidnapped by the Greek Billionaire" by Rachel Lyndhurst
"My Kind of Christmas" by Robyn Carr
"Miracles" by Judith McNaught (OK, so I read this before, but I’m a Christmas junkie!)



About the Author :

Victoria James is a romance writer living near Toronto, Canada. Victoria is a mother to two young children, and one very disorderly feline. Victoria attended Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario and graduated with a degree in English Literature, where she met and then later married, her own hero. After Queen's, Victoria earned a degree in Interior Design. After the birth of her first child she began pursuing her life-long passion of writing. Her dream of being a published romance author was realized last February, 2012, when Entangled Publishing bought her manuscript. Victoria is living her dream-staying home with her children and conjuring up happy endings for her characters.



- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 339 KB | Expected Release Date: November 19, 2012 | Publisher: Entangled Publishing : Indulgence | Obtained: Entangled Publishing

"The Billionaire's Christmas Baby" by Victoria James

My Book Summary : Hannah is a social worker on a mission. Her mission being, getting Emily (a baby girl who was abandoned to the foster care system after her mother committed suicide) into a safe and loving home, even if that means tracking down Emily's uncle, Jackson, a man who changed his name as a way to disassociate himself to his family, is all she has left. Therefore, she tracks him down in his remote cabin in hopes to win him over and have him adopt Emily.

However, during the process of getting to the cabin a snowstorm hits leaving Hannah and Emily left to stay with Jackson. They find that they have more in common than either of them expects. Will she be able to get Jackson to agree to adopt Emily before the storm passes or will Hannah's hopes for Emily all turn up empty?

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars. Two people find the one person who might understand them while in the middle of a blizzard and under extreme circumstances.

I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Hannah and Jackson. Their back-stories, their connection, and their personalities were fun, sweet, and entertaining to read about. In addition, I loved how protective Jackson was of Hannah and Emily once he got to know them, as well as, how Hannah decided to make sure that Emily was provided for no matter the cost to her career--it was all very sweet.

I recommend this novel to anyone who likes contemporary romances!!

Author's Novel Extras : I’m an author for Entangled! | I have Release Dates! | The “Next Big Thing” Blog Stop... | The Billionaire’s Christmas Baby!!!!!!! It’s here, it’s here, it’s here!!!!!! | USA TODAY HEA BOOK BLOG! | 24 Days and In Love with Romance! | The Billionaire’s Christmas Cookies

Book Teaser(s) :
“Did you hear a word of what I said?” she asked in a voice that made him think she could have been an excellent schoolteacher.
“I heard everything,” he said lying.
“Then what did I just say?” He made the mistake of glancing down at her breasts, which were straining against her shirt. He couldn’t help but think how nicely they’d fill his hands and then some...
“Jackson Pierce.” He couldn’t help it. He ducked his head and laughed, rubbing the back of his neck.
“Hannah,” he said into her sparkling eyes, unable to stop the grin that seemed to appear on his face whenever he was around her. “I’m sorry, but you’ve got to cut me some slack. You are a beautiful woman.”
She took a step closer and poked him in the chest and he resisted the urge to laugh. Something else hit him while he stared at her fiery eyes. When he first met her there was no way she would have poked him, but she trusted him now. She acted like her true, spunky, assertive self, and that made him feel damn good.
“Please save your lines for someone who’ll actually fall for them,” she said dryly.
He nodded. “Fine. Why don’t you ask me what you’re really dying to know?”
“And what would that be?” ~ within Chapter 6
For more information on this book and/or any other books by Victoria, then please check out her website.



Find Victoria James :

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Guest Post :: Does it Even Matter? by Tracey Eyster | 12 Pearls of Christmas & Giveaway

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas blog series!

Merry Christmas from Pearl Girls™! We hope you enjoy these Christmas “Pearls of Wisdom” from the authors who were so kind to donate their time and talents! If you miss a few posts, you’ll be able go back through and read them on this blog throughout the next few days.

We’re giving away a pearl necklace in celebration of the holidays, as well as some items (books, a gift pack, music CDs) from the contributors! Enter now on Facebook or at the Pearl Girls blog. The winner will announced on January 2, 2013 at the Pearl Girls blog.


If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of "Mother of Pearl: Luminous Lessons and Iridescent Faith," "Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace" or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls™.



"Does it Even Matter?" by Tracey Eyster

Every day, day after day, for twenty years I have been immersed in the task of mothering. No one told me before I was handed that swaddled bundle how all-consuming the role of motherhood was going to be, or how my heart would be forever altered.

My heart is swollen from the love that has grown there. A deep love that’s swelling has come at a cost.

The cost of daily dying to self as I choose to serve the needs of my children and my husband—to grow a family with the end in mind.

Thankfully I was taught by those older and wiser than me that the building of image bearing children requires intentionality and purpose by two loving, connected parents who are willing to work together for God’s purposes.

Even when we don’t know the outcome or exact purpose God has in mind for our children—our willingness to put in the hours and to be yielded to His direction is our gift to the Father.

This Christmas I have had a new and odd wondering that I have been contemplating, a question that has never before occurred to me.

Who built the manger?

Did he think the task was too menial?

Was he weary and tired from the task?

Did he want to build something more grand?

Did he dream of working in a way that would bring him glory and attention?

Did he wrestle with the assumption that what he was putting his time and effort into was not for a grand purpose?

How could he know the plans God had for that little manger?
The Savior of the world was going to rest there and do great things.

Psst . . . Mom, do you see it?

The Savior of the world has the potential to rest within that which you are building . . . to do great things.

Take care to put your time, talents, and energy into building well.



About the Author :

Tracey Eyster is the happily-in-love wife of Bill and the fun-filled mom of two teens, and she is devoted to her family and is happiest when making memories with them. In 2008 she took her passion for speaking into the lives of moms and created the ministry of MomLife Today. She is passionate about momlife and is amazed at God’s blessing of allowing her first book "Be The Mom" to come to fruition. She enjoys connecting with moms through her personal blog at www.bethemom.com, and on Facebook or Twitter @MomBlog.

My Previous Guest Post(s) by this Author : Simple or Sparkle? - December 2011



Find Tracey Eyster :

Monday, December 24, 2012

Guest Post :: Just Like Mary by Carla Anne Coroy | 12 Pearls of Christmas & Giveaway

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas blog series!

Merry Christmas from Pearl Girls™! We hope you enjoy these Christmas “Pearls of Wisdom” from the authors who were so kind to donate their time and talents! If you miss a few posts, you’ll be able go back through and read them on this blog throughout the next few days.

We’re giving away a pearl necklace in celebration of the holidays, as well as some items (books, a gift pack, music CDs) from the contributors! Enter now on Facebook or at the Pearl Girls blog. The winner will announced on January 2, 2013 at the Pearl Girls blog.


If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of "Mother of Pearl: Luminous Lessons and Iridescent Faith," "Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace" or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls™.



"Just Like Mary" by Carla Anne Coroy

Mary. Amazing Mary. Mother of Jesus. We marvel at her simple, faith-filled acceptance of God’s will for her life. There’s so little written about Mary in the Bible. We know almost nothing, really, about this woman that God chose to parent His Son.

Many have speculated about the exact age of Jesus’ mother. How old was she, really? What would it have been like to be greeted by an angel—and told you would become pregnant by the Spirit of God?

I wonder about other things sometimes, though. Like if she had morning sickness, or gained a lot of weight during her pregnancy. Was she overdue, or was baby Jesus born right on time? Did she mistake Braxton Hicks contractions for the real thing before labor really started? Was it a fast labor or did Joseph have eighteen hours to get that place into birthing readiness?

Most women who have ever given birth to a child have shared pregnancy stories. Everyone’s story is unique and interesting. Surely Mary’s was, too!

Then there are the stories of potty-training and conversations on how to get the baby to sleep through the night. Did Mary bounce Jesus on her knee while sharing recipes with other young moms?

We cannot find answers for these questions in Scripture. And as interesting as it might be to share pregnancy stories with Mary over a cup of coffee (maybe in heaven?) and get her tips on potty-training, we really don’t need to know any of that to love the Son she bore.

But Mary’s example raises questions about me and my own life that get under my skin.

Am I the kind of woman God will choose to be part of His plan? Do I trust and love my God enough to give faith-filled answers like she did? If there were just a few paragraphs written of my life for future generations to read, would those words reveal a heart of willing submission to God?

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it be to me as you have said.” (Luke 1:38, NIV)

God has not asked me to carry the burden of His Son in my womb. There are other burdens He is asking me, and you, to carry instead. Are we being the women He needs for the part of the plan we’re living in now? Am I saying to Jesus today, “May it be to me as you have said”?

During this Advent season, let’s prepare ourselves to be used by God, filled with faith and anticipating His grace—just like Mary.



About the Author :

Carla Anne Coroy is a Christian speaker and blogger, and the award-winning author of "Married Mom, Solo Parent." She ministers to a wide audience through her website and blog at www.carlaanne.com. Carla Anne has served full-time with organizations such as Youth for Christ and Crown Financial Ministries, and is currently developing mentoring resources for women and an international mentoring organization for youth. She also serves as a staff writer for the online magazine Mentoring Moments for Christian Women and is a spokesperson for Faithbuddy.com. Carla Anne lives in Canada with her husband and four homeschooled children.



Find Carla Anne Coroy :

Sunday, December 23, 2012

Guest Post :: Christmas Mourning by Tricia Goyer | 12 Pearls of Christmas & Giveaway

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas blog series!

Merry Christmas from Pearl Girls™! We hope you enjoy these Christmas “Pearls of Wisdom” from the authors who were so kind to donate their time and talents! If you miss a few posts, you’ll be able go back through and read them on this blog throughout the next few days.

We’re giving away a pearl necklace in celebration of the holidays, as well as some items (books, a gift pack, music CDs) from the contributors! Enter now on Facebook or at the Pearl Girls blog. The winner will announced on January 2, 2013 at the Pearl Girls blog.


If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of "Mother of Pearl: Luminous Lessons and Iridescent Faith," "Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace" or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls™.



"Christmas Mourning" by Tricia Goyer

As I sat in our living room last Christmas morning, there was a pile of presents under the tree. A smile filled my face, just thinking about the joy and laughter that would fill the house in a few hours when we gathered around to hear the Christmas story, worship Jesus, and open presents.

That morning as I thought about the celebration of our Lord's birth, my mind was already busy unwrapping. No, I wasn't thinking ahead to presents. Instead, I was unwrapping the many memories of Christmas that I carry on my heart.
I remember sitting at the kids' table in Grandma's mobile home, laughing and goofing around with my brother and cousins. I remember the doll house my Grandpa made when I was seven and the loving care my grandma took to decorate it.

I remember the boom box and banana clips from high school and my first Christmas with my son Cory not long after I turned eighteen. Cory was only six months old, but the greatest gift God gave to both of us that year was John—my soon-to-be husband and Cory's soon-to-be daddy.

There are memories of the kids acting out the Christmas story and Goyer family gatherings in which forty of us would eat in our cleaned-out and heated garage because it was the only place big enough to set up tables and chairs for everyone.

I also will never forget the first time I celebrated Christmas in California with my biological dad and the four sisters I didn't know growing up. I had a happy heart that day, being with people I didn't know well but who amazingly looked and acted just like me. How cool is that?!

As I write this, there are faces going to be missing around the tree, to be sure. There's always a sense of missing when the people you love are far away. And that's when Christmas Morning becomes Christmas Mourning. I'm thinking of my mom, dad, siblings, in-laws, and friends, wishing I could fill me house with their faces, their smiles, their laughter. I'm sure you understand.

It's so easy to center Christmas around the baby who God sent, but we cannot forget the purpose for His coming. Jesus' mission wasn't just about the manager, the angels, and the swaddling clothes. His purpose was to offer himself so that we can spend eternity with Him and those we love.

The greatest gift is one we've yet to open. Salvation comes to our hearts when we whisper a prayer of faith and relinquishment—when we give up the right to ourselves.

Like a beautifully wrapped presents under the tree, the best part of the gift is still to come. My mind is anticipating the unwrapping. I can only guess of the joy and laughter to come!



About the Author :

Tricia Goyer is a busy mom of four, grandmother of one, and wife to John. Somewhere around the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales delighting and entertaining readers and non-fiction titles offering encouragement and hope. Tricia is also on the blogging team at MomLifeToday.com, TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites. In addition to her roles as mom, wife and author, Tricia volunteers around her community and mentors teen moms. She is the founder of Hope Pregnancy Ministries in Northwestern Montana, and she currently leads a Teen MOPS Group in Little Rock, AR. Tricia, along with a group of friends, recently launched www.NotQuiteAmishLiving.com, sharing ideas about simplifying life. She also hosts the weekly radio podcast, Living Inspired. Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com.

My Previous Guest Post(s) by this Author : Family Traditions: A Glimpse into Christmas Future - December 2011 | What I Am Not - May 2012

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : The Memory Jar



Find Tricia Goyer :

Saturday, December 22, 2012

Guest Post :: The ADVENTure Awaits You! by Charissa Steyn | 12 Pearls of Christmas & Giveaway

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas blog series!

Merry Christmas from Pearl Girls™! We hope you enjoy these Christmas “Pearls of Wisdom” from the authors who were so kind to donate their time and talents! If you miss a few posts, you’ll be able go back through and read them on this blog throughout the next few days.

We’re giving away a pearl necklace in celebration of the holidays, as well as some items (books, a gift pack, music CDs) from the contributors! Enter now on Facebook or at the Pearl Girls blog. The winner will announced on January 2, 2013 at the Pearl Girls blog.


If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of "Mother of Pearl: Luminous Lessons and Iridescent Faith," "Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace" or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls™.



"The ADVENTure Awaits You!" by Charissa Steyn

God loves keeping us in a place of joyful expectation for what is next. He has mastered the art of surprise. Much to my dismay, God rarely ever lays out steps 1-2-3 for me to see. Maybe you’re like me and you’re a planner. You need time to prepare yourself for what is coming, the unknown grips you with fear, and it’s hard for you to simply enjoy a surprise.

It’s difficult to understand why God doesn’t like to reveal more of His mysterious ways, but I have a feeling it has something to do with faith. I am quite sure that if I knew everything that God had planned ahead of time my response would be, “No way God!”

But maybe we need to be a little more like Mary when it comes to faith. The angel reassured her, "Mary, you have nothing to fear. God has a surprise for you...” (Luke 1:30)

Did you get that? You have nothing to fear _________ (fill in the blank with your name) God has a surprise for you!

God invited Mary into the ultimate season of joyful expectation. He took her on the most miraculous adventure of birthing His son!

Instead of hesitation, Mary stepped forward, “Yes . . . let it be with me just as you say.” (Luke 1:38)

Instead of cowering in fear, Mary celebrated in faith, “I'm bursting with God-news; I'm dancing the song of my Savior God. God took one good look at me, and look what happened—I'm the most fortunate woman on earth! What God has done for me will never be forgotten. . . .” (Luke 1:46-48)

As the Christmas season is upon us, I can’t help but wonder what surprises God has wrapped up for us under His tree of life? What gifts does He want to reveal to us this year?

Like Mary, let’s face the unknown, the mystery, the surprises of God with a quiet, yet confident YES!

God wants to show you the impossible can become possible, the supernatural can become natural. We don’t need special qualifications, just joyful expectation.

May you accept the invitation of Jesus in this truly ADVENTurous season and embrace all the marvelous, mysterious surprises He has for you along the way!



About the Author :

Charissa Steyn is a God-adventurer. She believes everyday holds exciting undertakings that usually involve risk, but always draw us closer to the Father’s heart. Originally from Seattle, she now lives in Cape Town with her South African hubby, Michal and their son David. Together they are doing their best to lead a simple, yet dangerous life of love. Learn more about Charissa at her blog.



Find Charissa Steyn :

Friday, December 21, 2012

Blog Tour - The Spear of Destiny: Part One – Black Sun Reich by Trey Garrison | Interview & Spreading the Word

Today & for most of tomorrow I'm turning my blog over to Trey Garrison, who I interviewed about his debut novel "The Spear of Destiny: Part One – Black Sun Reich," which will be published in 3 e-parts!! [Blog Tour will run from December 18, 2012 - January 1, 2013]



My Q&A with Trey Garrison :

Jess : Out of all the “job titles” or should I say the “hats” that you have (mild-mannered journalist, editor, humorist, consultant, and author) which one do you enjoy the most and why?

Trey : Author, by far. I get to play God with the world and with characters, because muhuhahahaha! Seriously, when you write fiction, as scary as it can be to bare your soul to the judgment of others, it’s liberating and you get to own every bit of it. You take advice from your editor, but the story is yours.

Jess : Which of your characters would you most & least to invite to dinner, from which book and why?

Trey : I think it would be the Greek merchant Nicholas Filotoma. He’s a nod to Poul Anderson’s great Nicholas van Rijn in his Technic series. He’s 10 times smarter than he lets on, he resolves conflicts with his wits, and he’s just funny as hell.

Jess : Please describe "The Spear of Destiny: Part One – Black Sun Reich" in 75 words or less.

Trey : It’s an alternate history, dieselpunkish, supernatural, action comedy adventure with Nazis, zombies, robots, and cowboys. Think Raiders of the Lost Ark meets Shaun of the Dead.

Jess : What sparked the idea for your The Spear of Destiny Series?

Trey : I wanted to bring back a sense of fun to adventure stories that’s been missing as they increasingly try to get too gritty and dark. Granted, there are some dark and disturbing parts to my book, but in the end I want it to be a fun ride for the reader and a world they want to return to. (Hint sequel hint.)

Jess : Please describe Sean Fox Rucker & Jesus D’Anconia Lago, from "The Spear of Destiny: Part One – Black Sun Reich," in one to two sentences each.

Trey : Rucker is the man I strive to be – bold, fearless, committed to his principles, never taking things too seriously, and absolutely and charmingly arrogant.

Lago is the kind of stylish man I’d like to be, who peacocks without even trying.

The third character I’d mention is Dr. Kurt von Deitel, who embodies a lot of my self-deprecation, foibles, insecurities and doubts.

Jess : If "The Spear of Destiny: Part One – Black Sun Reich" were to be made into a film, who do you see playing the leading characters and why?

Trey : I always saw Matt Passmore from The Glades as Rucker. He’s got the look and the chops to pull off a larger than life and arrogant yet charming hero.


I pictured Dr. von Deitel as a young Oskar Werner. He had that regal German bearing but a soulfulness and sensitivity in his eyes. But for an actor today, I’m not sure.


I’d love to see Colin Farrell play Lt. Otto Skorzeny. He’s got the range and I think he would be great playing against his usual hero type, and while he’s a bad guy he is very charismatic. Or if he’d be willing, Robert Downey Jr. He can do no wrong.

or

Scarlett Johansson would be perfect for Terah Jane Spencer, if she can pull off a subtle, sultry Southern accent. She can be gorgeous and strong and still show a mean streak.


Hugo Weaving as Der Schadel, because every movie needs Hugo Weaving.


Chloë Grace Moretz as Amria because I’ve never seen her not perfect in any role.


Jess : Out of all of the secondary characters within your The Spear of Destiny Series, do you have one or two favorites so far? If so, who are they and can you tell us why?

Trey : Nicholas Filotoma, for the reasons I mentioned. I also loved writing Otto Skorzeny, because it’s fun to be a bad guy. And he’s a bad guy with honor, and he’s based largely on the real Otto Skorzeny, who was as much a badass as he was a bad guy.

Jess : What is the most scariest or weirdest/craziest thing one of your characters, from "The Spear of Destiny: Part One – Black Sun Reich," said or did?

Trey : Oh God. Easily Der Schadel, the telepathic, telekinetic sadist as the scariest. Writing his scenes, I actually creeped myself out. He starts with making a group of altar boys eviscerate themselves, and it just gets worse after that. But I wanted to show that while this is, taken together, a fun adventure story, the stakes are dire and the bad guys were really evil. He’s the embodiment of the cold, dispassionate murderers you saw running the death camps and performing medical experiments.

Jess : In regards to "The Spear of Destiny: Part One – Black Sun Reich," if you could write it all over again, would you change anything about it?

Trey : I think I’d make the Texas Freehold smaller. I wanted to emphasize how unique it was and how it was one of a few lights against the darkness, but I should have stressed more how it was an underdog in this world.

Jess : What appeals to you when writing a horror novel?

Trey : If you can creep yourself out, you’re doing a good job. I had to work to overcome my recalcitrance to write the horror scenes, because I was worried people would think those horrible, graphic ideas reside in me. I mean, I’m a girl’s softball coach for my daughter’s team – I didn’t want the parents thinking I was some kind of Ed Gein wannabe. But you have to use it if you’re going to make your horror scenes really have the impact they need, and you have to accept that people aren’t going to think you’re a step away from being a serial killer just because you can write one.

Jess : How many books have you written? Which is your favorite and why?

Trey : This is my first novel. I’m working on the sequel, but this will always be my first love. I put everything I had into it and made it exactly the story I would want to read.

But the sequel will be even better.

Jess : Do you have any other projects in the works? If so, can you share a little of your current work with us?

Trey : Aside from the sequel, I’m toying with the idea of a Cold War thriller, but not like you may think. I like mashing up history as a setting for a story I want to tell. Story comes first, always, but the world you set it in determines how you tell it. I’m thinking for this world during the American civil war the Union asked Mexico for help in putting down the Confederacy, the cost of which was they had to cede much of Texas and the southwest to Mexico after the war. As a result, there’s a diaspora of southwesterners back to England, which fundamentally changes the culture and history there. Flash forward 80 years, and Great Britain stands as the beacon of democracy against the Soviets to the east and a fascist America to the west. I’m thinking James Bond with cowboy boots. Boots at Buckingham. I’m an Anglophile as much as a Texan, so mixing up their culture with ours would be a blast.

Jess : Do you get road rage? What pisses you off the most about other drivers?

Trey : I used to. I gave it up when I realized it didn’t do me any good. Of course, this is an easier achievement because I make a point never to drive at rush hour.

Jess : If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be?

Trey : "Still Rising." I’d like to think I still haven’t hit my peak yet.

Jess : List 3 books you just recently read and would recommend?

Trey : "The Affinity Bridge" by George Mann
"The Buntline Special" by Mike Resnick
"Vampire Nation" by Thomas M. Sipos



"The Spear of Destiny: Part One – Black Sun Reich" by Trey Garrison

Author's Book Description :
    Black Sun Reich: Part One of three in "The Spear of Destiny," the first novel in a new steampunk, horror, alternate history, action-adventure series set in a 1920s where the Nazis have begun their subjugation of the world using the occult, advanced science, and a holy relic with awesome powers.

    Trey Garrison recaptures the unapologetic adventure, wonder, and excitement of the classic pulp fiction of the 1930s and 1940s, blending elements of steampunk with deeply researched historical fiction and a good dose of humor. The novel also explores major philosophical and moral issues relevant to our contemporary world: the trade-off between security and liberty, the morality of preemptive war, and what fundamentally separates good from evil.

    The North American continent is made up of several rival nations, and a Cold War is building among them. The Nazis rose to power a decade ago. People travel by airship, and powerful organizations calculate with Babbage’s Difference Engine. The Nazis have hatched a plot to raise a legion of undead soldiers.

    Enter Sean Fox Rucker and Jesus D’Anconia Lago, two Great War veterans and freelance pilots who are pulled into the quest. They are joined by a brash Greek merchant, a brilliant Jewish cowboy, and the woman who once broke Rucker’s heart. This ragtag band of reluctant, bickering, swashbuckling heroes is soon locked in a globe-spanning race against Nazi occultists, clockwork assassins, and a darkly charismatic commando. In a world where science and the supernatural coexist, and the monsters of legend are as real as the necromancers who summon them from murky realms, our heroes alone stand before the rising shadows. But all their efforts may not be enough.



About the Author :

"I’m kind of a big deal. People know who I am."

Trey Garrison’s secret identity is working as a mild-mannered journalist, editor, humorist, consultant, and part-time sybarite. Maybe the best word to describe him is racontrepreneur. Currently he is director of communications for a foundation based in Dallas that promotes free market solutions and free enterprise.

Trey’s work has appeared in a number of publications, often with his consent and sometimes with his knowledge. He’s been a contributor and editor for D Magazine — considered among the best city magazines in the United States — and for Reason magazine, the national magazine that promotes free minds and free markets. Trey has been a special contributor for The Dallas Morning News and a field reporter for The Land Report.

As a writer, he’s a better chef. And as a chef, he’s a better shooter. On the whole, he’d rather be on the beach in Jamaica. Wouldn’t you?




Find Trey Garrison :

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Made the Grade: Shifters Unbound Series, Book 3.5

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 249 KB | Release Date: August 2012 | Publisher: JA / AG Publishing | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Hard Mated" [Shifters Unbound Series, Book 3.5] by Jennifer Ashley (aka Ashley Gardner & Allyson James)

My Book Summary : Eron (Spike), a wildcat Shifter and the champion fighter of Shiftertown, is known as being a "dumb-ass fighter," even though he's not it's just the outwards appearance that he typically portrays for everyone. However, that all suddenly changes when after one of his usual fights a intriguing woman, Myka, tells him he has to meet up with her best friend Jillian (a woman whom Spike slept with about 5 years ago) because Jillian is dying and needs to talk to him. Once Spike gets to Jillian in the hospital he is told that he is the father of Jillian's son, Jordan, and that because of the law and Jillian's life about to end soon Jordan belongs to Spike now.

Nevertheless, because of personal childhood experiences with an abusive stepfather Myka cannot give up the need to keep an eye on Jordan while he is in Spike's care. Therefore, Myka helps out take care of Jordan while Spike deals with his responsibility to Shiftertown and they become very close. So close in fact that soon after their meeting Spike starts to have the mating urge and wants to keep/protect Myka from anyone and anything possible, even if that means protecting her and Jordan from his own clan. But will he be able to protect them from everything when his duty to the clan takes him away from them more often then he'd like; especially when an old enemy starts petitioning Spike to break away from his current clan, and has plans for Spike to do just that by any means possible!

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars. Two lonely people find each other during the most unlikely circumstances!

Okay, to be fair, the only other novel from this series (or by this author) that I've read is "Primal Bonds" (Book 2 in the Shifters Unbound Series). It was an okay book, but what I came to realize when I read that novel (and again when I read "Hard Mated") was that I really don’t like Liam Morrissey--(the leader of Spike's Shiftertown) at all since he just seems to make me mad (I don't completely understand why--he just does)--and the collar thing thoroughly annoys me about the plot (I'll admit it's unique concept--I just don't like the idea of it).

Then why would I read this novella, you ask?

Well because with all of that being said I have been staring at "Hard Mated's" AWESOME cover ever since it was release and has been on my Amazon.com recommended list making me have to find out what the description was all about and it just pulled me in!! And in truth, I am sooo happy I did read this novella! Mostly I'm happy about it because I LOVED Spike/Eron & Myka! They were perfect for one another and their shared stories made this plot that much more thrilling. In addition, I enjoyed how everything turned out!

Therefore, I would recommend this novel to anyone who is a fan of Ms. Ashley, as well as, to anyone who likes unique paranormal/fantasy romances!

Author's Novel Extras : Updates on Hard Mated and everything | Hard Mated at Kindle, Nook, Kobo, Smaswords (print on its way!) | Hard Mated on Bestseller lists and Mate Claimed Excerpt

Author's Series Extras : Series Site | The Humans' Guide to Shifters | Message from Liam Morrissey | Liam Morrissey Wallpaper | TITLE CHANGE: Shifter Lovin' to Primal Bonds | Primal Bonds Cover | More and more updates | Primal Bonds Countdown! and More! | Thanks, Backlist releases, and New Stuff | Shifter Made and Pride Mates | Pride Mates (Shifters Unbound Series) | What's Coming Next | Update on Bodyguard | Bodyguard is OUT! | Wild Cat Release! And other things | Shifters novella in Berkley Anthology

Book Teaser(s) :
He tasted the pain in her and wanted to make it all better. He’d sweep her up and shut out the world, sink into the goodness of her. The curve of her buttocks under his hand beckoned his tongue, her hair warmed his fingers, and she smelled like honey and sugar. If he licked her all over, would she taste as sweet?
The floor creaked upstairs again. Myka jumped in his arms, hands sliding from his shoulders to his chest, trying to push him away.
Spike jerked her closer, hand firming on her ass. Who cared if his grandmother came down and caught them? She was Shifter; she’d understand. She knew what loneliness was.
Lonely. So lonely. Stay with me.
Myka gasped, and Spike broke the kiss.
She was breathing hard, her pupils spreading but her body shaking. His instincts screamed at him to take Myka upstairs, lock her into his room with him, and not let her go until they’d made a couple more cubs to go with Jordan. Nature wanted him to do this, and Spike’s mind wasn’t fighting nature too much. But there was more at stake right now. ~ within Chapter 8
For more information on this book and/or any other books by Jennifer, then please check out her website.

Guest Post :: 99 Authors, 99 Books, 99 Cents‏



These prices are available on Amazon.com ONLY!

For a listing of books offered and to enter to win, CLICK HERE!!

Guest Post :: Quieted in His Presence by Cara Putman | 12 Pearls of Christmas & Giveaway

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas blog series!

Merry Christmas from Pearl Girls™! We hope you enjoy these Christmas “Pearls of Wisdom” from the authors who were so kind to donate their time and talents! If you miss a few posts, you’ll be able go back through and read them on this blog throughout the next few days.

We’re giving away a pearl necklace in celebration of the holidays, as well as some items (books, a gift pack, music CDs) from the contributors! Enter now on Facebook or at the Pearl Girls blog. The winner will announced on January 2, 2013 at the Pearl Girls blog.


If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of "Mother of Pearl: Luminous Lessons and Iridescent Faith," "Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace" or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls™.



"Quieted in His Presence" by Cara Putman

It's the week after Thanksgiving. We're racing toward Christmas. Even with Thanksgiving occurring a week early, it feels like a race. When did we decide this organized (or not so organized) chaos was restful, relaxing, conducive to a joyful season?

When did the joy of gifting something to one we love become replaced by the pressure to find the perfect gift? When did the amount of the gift matter more than spirit it is gifted in? At times like these I need a reason to remember that God can calm my heart when I feel like I'm spilling in a bazillion different directions.

Grab a mug of tea or cup of coffee. I'll share my peppermint mocha creamer. It's low-sugar. And let's sit together and soak in this truth.

The Lord is with us. With us. Emmanual. The God with us. Savor that. He's with us. Not watching us. With us.

He is mighty to save. He doesn't barely save. He is mightily prepared to save.

He will take great delight in you. Think about a child. Yours or someone else's. Think about the joy that child brings to his parents. That is a pale shadow of the depth of delight God takes in you. Humbled? Thrilled? I am!

He quiets us with His love. He will, if we'll let Him. It is His will to quiet us with love. Like a child who is content and secure in the knowledge of her parents' love. That's how He wants us to rest. To be quiet. In His presence. At His feet.

He will rejoice over us with singing. Think of your favorite artist, group, chorus. Think of how their voices resonate and harmonize. Remember how you are swept away by the beauty of a voice raised in song. Then imagine God singing a special song over you. Then consider that it's a song of rejoicing. Just because you are. A song to you.

Now that you've quieted in His presence, are you ready to go back to preparations. Ready to focus on Him? To find Him in the midst of the Christmas chaos? Because He is the baby in the manager. He is the reason we celebrate. And He's celebrating you!



About the Author :

Cara Putman is an author of fourteen novels and one nonfiction work—plus all the characters and stories still begging to be told. Look for more in the future. She is also a licensed attorney, contract lecturer at a Big Ten University, adjunct faculty at a community college, and active in her church and community. She lives with her family in Indiana.



Find Cara Putman :

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Feasted On: The Vampire King Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 1089 KB | Release Date: December 2, 2012 | Publisher: Secret Cravings Publishing | Obtained: Kenya Wright

"Escape" [The Vampire King Series, Book 1] by Kenya Wright

My Book Summary : Brie is a Domina, which is a human woman with special blood that can also give birth to vampire children (some of those children can turn out to be very powerful). However, even though so volunteered to be a Domina to The Quiet King (a vampire king who is ruthless, blind, deaf, and very spiteful) so her family and village would survive; after two years of living in the castle and seeing vampire "prince" babies being unmercifully slaughtered she's decides to escape back to her home to be with her daughters and husband again.

Therefore, to escape, she enlists the help of Samuel a Pathfinder (someone who assists others to escape the King's kingdom) and a full powerful vampire with secrets of his own. However, Samuel doesn't agree with helping Dominas escape for personal reasons so Brie is forced to lie to him when they first meet and hope that her secret won't be found out.

Soon they find that there is an instant bond and attract between them that gets stronger with every touch they share. It leaves Brie second-guessing her commitment to the husband that let her go and her heart. Will she be willing to leave Samuel's side when the time comes? Can she go back to a life that has probably moved on without her? Will she be able to make it on her own now that she's escaped the King and he will be out hunting for her soon?

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars, this dynamic novella keeps you on your toes with its captivating writing and intense scenes! I was not expecting to like this novel as much as I did! Also, I am soo pleasantly surprised with the growth that Brie & Samuel go through throughout this story. Right now, this story isn't about a love match, it's about a woman wanting to get herself out of a bad situation and back home to the ones she chose to leave, and in the process finding a man (vampire) who sparks something inside of her that takes hold and doesn't let go. I was intrigued with the passion between Brie & Samuel as well as how they come to learn to trust and like each other throughout this story.

In addition, I will admit that I am more of a fan of reading from both of the main characters POVs. So, when this novella was (and is) mostly from Brie's perspective I was a little disappointed, that is until I got to the very end of it and read the epilogue, which is from Samuel's perspective! It was nice to read because it let you know that they were both on the same page, i.e. they both were excited and scared about this growing attraction between them and not sure what to do about it, which made me like this novella that much more!!

I recommend this novella to anyone who enjoys paranormal vampire romance, especially in unique settings!

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Incubus Hunter

Author's Novel Extras : Blood! Vampires! Fangs! Oh My!! | Escape Cover Reveal by Kenya Wright

Author's Series Extras : About the World and the Two Main Characters | Vampire King Series Sneak Previews

Book Teaser(s) :
The door opened. Light seeped in from the hallway. Samuel stumbled in, closed the door, and ambled to the other side of the bed. He collapsed behind me, making the mattress bounce a little. My body tensed. I kept my back to him.
“I’m sorry,” he said. “I shouldn’t have come in the shower. Ambi knows I shouldn’t even be lying in this bed next to you.”
Not knowing how to respond, I remained stiff, pretending to be asleep.
“I know you’re awake. I hear your heart beating fast,” he warned. “And I know how it sounds when you’re asleep. I listened to it the whole time I carried you in the sewer.”
I gritted my teeth. “Fine. I’m awake.”
“Do you mind me sleeping in bed with you?”
“I don’t mind as long as you don’t touch me.”
His laughter filled the space. “A vampire lies next to you and all you’re worried about is him touching you?”
“I’m used to sleeping with a vampire,” I confessed. “Once a month, The Quiet King slept in my bed to help me adjust to him.”
“He never touched you, right?” Samuel’s voice came out in a low growl. ~ within Chapter 6
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Kenya, then please check out her website.

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