Friday, January 30, 2015

Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Break Her Fall by @JoAnnaGrace4ya

Break Her Fall

Blake Pride Series

Book 2

JoAnna Grace

Genre: Urban Fantasy/ Paranormal romance

Publisher: Winged J Press

Date of Publication: Jan 20th 2015

ISBN: 978-1-94-460-15-4

ASIN:B00RKOSPXS

Number of pages: 300+

Word Count: 91K

Cover Artist: Jleeann.com

Book Description:

As beta female of the Blake Pride, Amilynn does whatever it takes to get the job done and guard her family—even if it might not be morally sound. Now that the Pride has moved in with the Blackburn Pack, she faces a threat she never saw coming…a mate. The sexy and persistent wolf wants to claim the leopardess, but she’s not going down without a fight.

Ezekiel is used to getting what he wants and his eyes are set on his seductive target. Yet predicting Amilynn’s next move is fruitless. He’s caught between admiring her strength and resenting it. Does he dominate or submit? Can he prove to Amilynn she really is worth the fight?

When a ghost from Amilynn’s past stalks their family, Ezekiel will learn her true strength. Amilynn isn’t a docile house cat and, by the time she’s done, everyone will know it.

Available at Amazon

AMILYNN SNUGGLED INTO the warm arms that were around her. God, Ezekiel smelled like heaven. The sweet honey of his mating scent filled her mind and made her inner leopard purr with desire. It was so easy to sleep when his strong arms held her close and kept her safe. He was there for her in her time of distress, waiting to see if her best friend would pull through the night. He’d given his own blood to save Vivian’s life. Amilynn never thought she could find peace in the middle of a hospital, in the midst of a catastrophe like this, and yet Ezekiel gave it to her.

Her cat had never been more satisfied, even if he was a wolf.

While Ezekiel kept her safe, Ami could focus on the crisis at hand. Vivian had to live. She had to make it. If there was no hope for Vivian to live a full life of love and happiness, then what chance did Amilynn have? Vivian was wilder, more feral in her independence than Ami and, somehow, she’d found a mate in Kasey Blackburn who was worthy of her devotion. The wolf alpha had shown his love for Vivian time and time again, gaining the trust of the rest of her Pride. But look where it got them. The songs were bullshit. Love is not all you need.

Vivian fought for her life in that hospital because members of Kasey’s Pack didn’t want the Pride coming in. The feline shifters didn’t belong there, so they said. The Pack might be a mixture of wolves and bear, but adding felines to the mix was more than some of them could handle. The rebellious group had done a fine job of letting Amilynn and her family know they weren’t welcome.

Amilynn, in particular, had been warned off the males of the Pack. Here she sat in Ezekiel’s arms, the arms of a future alpha. Wouldn’t that cause another rebellion? The hookers and hounds, what a mess.

Her cat came to attention when a rumbling in Ezekiel’s chest woke her up. The low growl was aggressive and full of warning. Her eyes popped open, ready to defend her family at any cost.

“Easy, fool,” Tyrone, her brother, warned Ezekiel in gravelly bass.

Ezekiel, who had also been awakened with a start, gripped Ty’s hand. It took a couple of seconds for all of them to realize there was no threat.

“V’s awake.” Ty yanked from Ezekiel’s grasp.

Amilynn didn’t hesitate to uncurl from Ezekiel’s lap and follow Ty. She didn’t look back, couldn’t. Once she was in her right mind, she would explain to Ezekiel that there was no way they were going to be together. They were too different.

Ami took her first easy breath when she saw Vivian’s eyes open. They were half crossed, but they were open. Relief and love bubbled over her, creating a wave of deep emotion she didn’t know how to process. She could cry, but who had time for hormonal drama? When Vivian smiled at her, she had to blink back the tears. Damn. This was not cool.

“Well,” Ami said, needing to escape with her dignity. “Since Kasey is stuck up your ass, and you’re in good hands, I’m going to jet.” She sniffed and made sure not to look Vivian in the eyes again. “Glad you’re awake.” Without another word, she left the hospital room. Her chest constricted so tightly, she could’ve passed out.

“Here.” Ty tossed her a set of keys. Of course her brother would know she didn’t want anyone to see her lose her shit. She gave him a nod and bolted from the hospital. Go figure; they were to Ezekiel’s motorcycle. At least if she cried while she was on the bike, she could blame it on the wind in her eyes. Sometimes being a girl sucked.

Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?

I’ve always been a writer at heart, but I was taught to get a “sensible” job, so I had brief but educational experiences in real estate and at my local Chamber of Commerce. I’ve also worked with/for my husband for the last 13 years. We’ve been married for 11 ½- so do the math! wink wink

When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?

Always! But the validation came with my first email from a reader who wasn’t related. Knowing someone who didn’t share my DNA actually loved the book was pretty cool.

How long did it take to get your first book published?

A while. I believe there is a time and season for everything and back in 2011, when I tried to submit to publishers, it definitely was not my time or season…mainly because of a surprise pregnancy late that year. I took that time to learn and revise. In early 2013 I attended the NOLA Stars conference and listened to authors speak about self-publishing. That changed everything. My first book was out with a small, umbrella press late that year.

Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?

I manage my husband and brother’s construction company from home and keep my 2 year old. Yes, I work with my little brother and my spouse while taking care of a toddler. What can I say? I drink.

What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?

Break Her Fall is: sexy and funny. Amilynn is the only person who can kill someone and shag a hottie on the same day. (20 words!)

Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?

I worked with Progressive Rising Phoenix Press on Divine Destiny in The Divine Chronicles series and with Dark Red Press for the Blake Pride Series. But I’m primarily self-published. I really like the freedom and business of it.

How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?

Usually a few months, depends on the book. Amilynn’s book, with revisions was about three months start to finish.

What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?

I want to finish out the Blake Pride Series and get another Divine Chronicles book out. Then I would like to integrate my contemporaries in there. Hopefully in 2016 we can see some of those come out. I have soooo many stories just waiting their turn in line.

What genre would you place your books into?

Romance all the way. Mainly Paranormal. I’m a sucker for a good love story. Throw in some fighting and I’m good to go.

What made you decide to write that genre of book?

One of my books started out as a contemporary and I realized there wasn’t a real man on earth capable of what Ryse was doing. So I made him a god! While writing that story I realized how much I love paranormal and supernatural stuff.

Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?

That’s hard! That’s like asking which kid is my favorite. I really loved writing Amilynn. She’s a sassy, funny bada$$. She doesn’t have a filter and yet she can be so sweet and kind when she wants to. I want to be as cool as she is when I grow up.

How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?

I’ve always sought out writing to unwind after my day jobs. I wrote while I was in high school, I made picture books as a kid. It’s always been a part of me but it wasn’t until a couple years ago that I really decided it was time to pursue it as a career.

Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?

I like to move around when I write. I have an office and work in there, but I have nooks around the house. I have playlists for each of my books or certain genres that get me into the mood, even candles help.

Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?

Heck no! I’m thankful for the good ones and throw the bad ones over my shoulder. Opinions are like armpits, ya know?

Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?

I suck at titles! It’s not easy for me. I usually change the title two or three times through out the writing process.

How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?

Usually the characters name themselves and then I double check if it works. But if a character arrives without a name, I’ll research something appropriate that they like.

Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?

Places are kind of like names. Sometimes the characters tell me where they are, sometimes they don’t and I have to research.

Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?

The characters have to grow organically for me. I know a lot of authors plan their people but mine grow within me through the journey.

Are there any hidden messages or morals contained in your books? (Morals as in like Aesops Fables type of "The moral of this story is..")

All over the freaking place. Go find them!

Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?

A book is a book. I love my iPad. I love paper. Just read!

What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once?

I’ve read all of Nalini Singh’s books about three times each, the Vampire Academy/Bloodlines books, Black Dagger Brotherhood. Sometimes you need comfort food for your soul, right?

Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?

Some do. Vampire Academy was a letdown. Sorry. Dimitri was the best part of that movie. I hope to get the chance to see my books on screen one day. That would be great!

Your favorite food is?

Chocolate. Coffee. Nuff said.

Your favorite singer/group is?

Ouch. That’s hard, too. I’m really diggin Imagine Dragons right now.

Your favorite color is?

Purple/blue

Your favorite Author is?

Nalini Singh. Hands down.

Thanks so much for hosting me today! It’s great to have the chance to visit with you. Please check out my books and let me know what you think.

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JoAnna Grace lives in a world of alpha males and strong females where true love conquers all—at least in her mind!

From the time she started holding a crayon she began to create magical worlds. Her first book was a series of pictures about a puppy princess. The story changed each time she told it, but there was always a happy ending! Her first written story was about girls who changed into tigers.

Now those stories have become a bit more complex!

JoAnna’s tales are spun at her home in East Texas where she lives with her husband, three kids, and a couple dogs. When not hiding behind the computer screen you can find her camping, boating, and shopping.

JoAnna loves to hear from readers and fans!

You can find her at the following places:

Authorjoannagrace.com

Twitter: @JoAnnaGrace4ya

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoAnnaGraceAuthor

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Book Blast & Giveaway: Zoku’s Hope by @ChelCOneal

BOOK INFORMATION

TITLE – Zoku’s Hope SERIES – Angel Crest Trilogy #2 AUTHOR – Chelsea O’Neal GENRE – Urban Fantasy Romance PUBLICATION DATE – March 21, 2014 LENGTH (Pages/# Words) – 220 pages PUBLISHER – Mirador Publishing COVER ARTIST – Mallory Rock’s Art

BOOK SYNOPSIS

After Jaiden found Daniah in Juniper, they returned to Garnet City. Daniah is destined to become Queen of Zoku, a race of angel half-breeds who protect the humans from a soul-stealing evil. Now, Daniah is learning of her abilities and responsibilities as queen. Just as things seem to be going smoothly, a group of Zoku show up to help, led by an angel, Shelly. Mallory has been on her own for most of her life, trying to protect and save those around her. She is Toyek, and she's been hiding in plain sight while fighting for her life. She is intent on finding her friends' daughter, whatever the cost, when an innocent trip to the supermarket takes an interesting turn. Orion has been hired to find a female and, as a Tracker, finding people is his specialty. He finds much more than he was looking for when he runs into the beautiful Mallory. While pursuing both his target and the resistant Mallory, he finds himself fighting to defend Princess Daniah and the Zoku. Can Orion and Mallory work together to help Daniah be the hope the Zoku so desperately need? Or will a few surprises and a tragedy be all it takes to break the united front of the Zoku fighting against the evil Meikal?

BUY & TBR LINKS

AMAZON KINDLE US – AMAZON KINDLE CA – AMAZON KINDLE UK – AMAZON PAPERBACK – BARNES & NOBLES NOOK – BARNES & NOBLES PAPERBACK – SMASHWORDS – ITUNES – GOODREADS – SHELFARI

Portrait of young elegant couples in the tender passion

EXCERPT

“Cord, come dance with me,” I suggest, sliding out of my chair and holding my hand out to her.

She looks up at me in surprise then blushes and reaches her good hand up to clasp mine and we head to the dance floor. The music has all been slower songs, which is good because with her broken arm Cord wouldn’t be able to get too crazy.

I slide one arm around her waist and pull her against me while taking her free hand in mine. We sway to the music and I notice the beat changes into another song which is a bit faster, so I dip Cord back then nudge her gently with my arm at her waist while pulling her other arm, making her go in a circle before pulling her body back up against mine.

She giggles. “This is fun, and you’re quite good,” she says smiling up at me. “Even with my bum arm.”

I smile back and respond, “thank you.” Then we continue on, me dipping, swaying, pushing away pulling her back against me. I twist her so that her back is against me and we sway in time to the music. I drop my head against her shoulder and lay my cheek against hers.

“You’re pretty good at this yourself,” I say into her ear and feel her body tremble against mine as she lays her head back against my chest. ““Even with your bum arm.”

We sway a bit more, before I spin her around again and dip her before bringing her up against my body, lifting her to where her face is close to mine. We are still swaying slightly as the music changes again, and then, looking into her eyes and her flushed face, I lean closer, my eyes falling to her lips.

I feel her take in a breath and hear it catch in her throat. I release her hand and slide both of my arms around her, one on her waist and the other around her back. Her hand moves to my shoulder and I feel her pull me closer. My eyes flick back up to hers, which are locked onto my mouth. Without another thought, I lean in and press my lips against hers softly. My hand moves to her nape as I cradle her against me.

I feel a shock at the first touch of our lips and then I feel Cord press herself even closer to me as she pulls at my shoulder. She is everything I have been wanting and more than I had hoped for. Her lips are soft and warm, molding against mine; her body is lean and muscled, though still soft. Her hand moves up to my hair and she lightly scratches my scalp and I moan into her mouth feeling the touch all throughout my body.

I move my lips against hers, lightly swiping my tongue against her lower lip, coaxing her to open for me. She does, sucking in a shuddering breath, and I thrust my tongue into her mouth. I feel as well as hear her groan in to my mouth as she angles her mouth against mine.

I pull back from her mouth and move to her neck, lightly leaving open- mouthed kisses along her jaw and neck. I have waited years to finally kiss her, and I have wanted her more the last few days. “Cord,” I whisper and I feel her body stiffen.

I pull back and look at her in question. She looks up at me with indecision all over her face, though I can see the desire in her eyes.

AUTHOR BIO

Chelsea O’Neal lives in her fantasy world where people can fly, vampires could be real, money is never an issue, and the romantic meeting of your true love is a normal happening. When not relaxing in Chelsea-ville, she enjoys talking with animals that talk back and taking long walks with her Prince Charming…

Actually Chelsea lives in the United States in Nebraska, where she was born and raised, with her black lab Daisey, who hasn’t spoken actual words, but she is pretty sure Daisey understands her. She is yet to meet her Prince Charming, though she is quite sure he is out there. Chelsea enjoys working in a library as well as a cosmetologist. She is an avid reader and writing has always been her passion. Zoku’s Hope is her second novel, and she is working on her next book now.

AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – WEBSITE / BLOG – FACEBOOK – TWITTER – GOODREADS – SHELFARI – OTHERS

GIVEAWAY

1 ebook of each of my books.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book one info below

BOOK INFORMATION

TITLE – Juniper’s Princess SERIES – Angel Crest Trilogy #1 AUTHOR – Chelsea O’Neal GENRE – Urban Fantasy Romance PUBLICATION DATE – July 2, 2013 LENGTH (Pages/# Words) – 254 pages PUBLISHER – Mirador Publishing COVER ARTIST – Mallory Rock’s Art

BOOK SYNOPSIS

Daniah is different, she always has been and now her dreams and visions of the future are increasing, she knows her life is changing. She just doesn't know by how much...

Jaiden is different, but he knows why and he knows his responsibilities. He must find the saviour of his race, the angel human half-breeds who are fighting a war for humanity's souls. If he can't convince Daniah she is more than just a little different - she is the princess of their people - they are all going to die.

Unfortunately Daniah doesn't have many reasons to trust Jaiden, especially when he is caught in a web of his own lies. In a world where half-breed angels walk among us, fighting an evil for our souls, Daniah must find the strength to become the princess we all need.

Chelsea O'Neal has a unique voice in storytelling, threading the characters lives together intricately to give us a complex web of good versus evil in a world descending into chaos...

BUY & TBR LINKS

AMAZON KINDLE US – AMAZON KINDLE CA – AMAZON KINDLE UK – AMAZON PAPERBACK - BARNES & NOBLES NOOK – BARNES & NOBLES PAPERBACK – SMASHWORDS – ITUNES – GOODREADS – SHELFARI

Blitz Organized & Hosted by

Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Man Candy by @jewelquinlan

Man Candy

The Cougar Journals

Book 1

Jewel Quinlan

Genre: Contemporary

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Date of Publication: January 9, 2015

Word Count: 13692

Cover Artist: Sour Cherry Designs

Book Trailer: N/A

Book Description:

Commercial real estate agent, Ava Baldassari, is done with being a good girl. Recently having revamped her self-image, home and wardrobe she finds there is one thing left that needs updating; her sex life.

She runs into her friend and running partner, Cole, one night when she is out with a friend. A bit drunk she flirts with him and is surprised by the enthusiastic response he gives back.

Things reach a point where she has to make a decision whether or not to cross a line she never has before.

Ava is forty and Cole is twenty-five, is she really ready to become a cougar?

Where you can buy Man Candy:

“I’ve been wanting to do this for a while,” he whispered in my ear, still pressed against me as he unzipped my dress.

Me too, I wanted to say. But I didn’t. I was adrift in the onslaught of sensation as he slid the fabric from me, trailing kisses down my back as it went. Making me aware as I never had been of how sensitive the skin there could be. When he reached the small of my back, he lingered, kneading my skin with his tongue and teeth. His hands ran down my legs and then back up to my breasts, and I savored the feel of his fingers. My breaths came heavier. I had been needing this for too long.

He rose and turned me toward him, towering over me. His cap was gone and his dark hair was askew, as though he had run his fingers through it, giving him that sexy just-woke-up look. I slid my fingers from the waist of his jeans, underneath his shirt, to his muscled back. The ridges of strength there were too tempting beneath my fingertips. How did he find the time to work out that much? I had to see with my own eyes. Fisting the hem of his shirt in my hands, I pulled his t-shirt up to remove it. Why should I be the only one standing here naked? With a chuckle, he complied, lifting the shirt over his head and flinging it away in the casual manner of an underwear model on TV.

Sure, I had imagined what he looked like with his shirt off, but the reality was ten times better. He had a runner build, but that was filled out with muscle. The planes of his chest were topped by strong shoulders and arms, which seemed to blossom over the lean ridges of his abdominals, creating a definite contrast. I couldn’t help reaching out and touching him. I ran my hands over his skin, tracing my way upward to the light coating of black hair on his pectorals. He leaned his pelvis into me, forehead on mine, his erection pressing into me, making me shiver with anticipation.

We were on the brink of something oh-so-good, and I was dying to plunge ahead. Yet, I hesitated. Questions burned in my mind. I tried to hold them back, knowing serious talk would ruin the moment. That lasted about two seconds before I gave in.

“Um…” I said.

He lifted his head from mine and looked at me.

I cocked my head at him. “Did you just say you’ve been wanting to do this for a while?” Had he been scoping me out all this time, as I had him?

He nodded. “Who wouldn’t? Look at you. You’re gorgeous.”

I glanced down at myself. My ample buxom looked perfect in the black, lace push-up bra I wore, and the matching thong sat just right, low on my hips. I still had on my red heels, which added a lady-killer effect.

Then I glanced at him. The smoldering look he gave me trumped anything I observed on the physical plane. The messages coming from him on a subliminal level promised pleasure that made me squirm with heat.

“You know it’s going to be good between us, Ava,” Cole said.

Jewel will be attending RomCon in Denver CO September 25-27.

Readers can get tickets to sit with her at the luncheon event, she would love to meet you!

Character Name: Ava Baldassari

Character Bio: Ava has had enough of being a good girl. Prior to the start of the story she revamped her wardrobe, car and lifestyle and is looking for similar change in her sex life. She is a commercial real estate agent and 40 years old but not dead yet. She is single and still wants to live her life and finds herself questioning all the boundaries and limitations that society puts on women in general.

Describe yourself what is your worst and best quality?

Well, I’m Italian, so I have an innate passion that can be my best and worst enemy. On the one hand I can get really into a project like, say…redecorating my bedroom. But on the other hand it can lead to me repainting the room myself all night until it’s done.

What is the one thing you wish other people knew about you?

Hm. That’s a tough one. I suppose it’s that even though I act tough on the outside I still have feelings and want to be treated like a lady.

What is your biggest secret something no one knows about?

I don’t normally like chocolate but once in a blue moon I get a craving for Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Mixed with vanilla ice cream it’s to die for.

What are you most afraid of?

Never getting married. But when I have a steady flow of dates I don’t feel too worried about this one.

What do you want more than anything?

To have fun in life. I work so hard at my day job to make money that none of it would make any sense if there were no payoffs like vacation with a gorgeous man.

What is your relationship status?

Hot-and-sexy-single. Happy with life, and having fun.

How would you describe your sense of fashion?

It’s a mix of killer and classy. I have one simple rule when buying clothing for work. If I can’t answer yes to the question “Would I wear this to happy hour?” then I don’t buy it. That’s the invisible line between dreaded work clothes and work clothes that make you feel great.

How much of a rebel are you?

From the way my parents used go on and on you would think I was the world’s worst daughter. But most of my rebelling is against the standards of society. I refuse to be put into a box. I am determined to live my life the way I want it. The more I do what I want, the happier I have become, so I must be on to something.

What is your idea of happiness?

A high-end glass of cabernet, and an empty inbox, and a hot man who tops off my glass with more wine any time it gets low. In between he kisses me passionately but I won’t say where.

What is your current state of mind?

A little disconcerted after my night with Cole, who is fifteen years younger than me. There are just so many things to consider when taking a leap like that. It changes your whole mind set. But I don’t feel as disoriented as I thought I would. You know, like the way you feel after your first one-night-stand in college. It was an unusual encounter but I feel no guilt. It was more like a mind-stimulating push. Overall I was glad for the experience.

What is your most treasured possession?

My Porsche Cayman GTS. It’s my pride and joy. And is fully paid off so it’s mine. I often park it far back in the parking lot so it won’t get dinged by other drivers opening their doors.

What is your most marked characteristic?

My hair. It’s long, dark and glossy. That has to be it. At least once a day some random stranger comments on how beautiful it is. Sometimes I forget since I see myself in a mirror every day. But I’m glad people go out of their way to remind me what a gift I was given.

What is it that you, most dislike?

When people interrupt me while I’m eating. I tell you, customer service in the US has gone bats**t crazy! Why do I need three different people to stop by and make sure my food is okay? Just leave me the heck alone to eat so I don’t have to be rude and answer with a full mouth. If I need something, I will flag you down. We Italians aren’t shy.

What do you considered to be your greatest achievement?

Did I mention the Porsche Cayman? Lol. Okay, no, that’s not really it. For me it’s being able to

take care of myself. I used to hate asking my parents for money when I was a kid.

Which living person do you, most despise?

Reese Witherspoon. But it’s more like a love-hate thing. She’s so darn beautiful and sweet that I hate that I can’t be her.

What is your greatest regret?

That I didn’t revamp my life before now. Things would be so different now had I done this sooner!

What is the quality you most like in a man?

Confidence. I may get mad at an alpha male but I’ve never wanted to throttle one. Wimpy beta males who can’t make a move or a decision drive me insane.

What is the quality you most like in a woman?

I like women who are go-getters as evidenced by my closest friends. We don’t sit around and cry about a relationship gone bad. We drag each other up on to our feet, by the hair, and move on to the next one.

Who is your favorite hero in fiction?

Thor. Does it get any hotter than that?

Which living person do you most admire?

Oprah Winfrey. Is there any greater example of a woman’s badassness?

If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?

Nothing. I got to this point of my overall-great-life by being who I was made to be. Without the exact ratio of good, bad and ugly that I have I wouldn’t be who I am today.

What is your motto?

Don’t wait for your ship to come in. Swim out to it.

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Jewel Quinlan had an abundant imagination and a strong desire to write novels from a young age. She particularly enjoys writing paranormal and fantasy romance but also writes contemporary as well.

An avid traveler, she has visited fifteen countries so far (which she enjoys using as settings in her novels) and has plans to see more of the world. She has a particular fondness for Bavaria and studies the German language as one of her hobbies.

During the day, she works as a pharmaceutical sales representative and, at night, she writes romance. She currently lives in Orange County, California with her dog Penny.

For more information about Jewel Quinlan

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Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Book Blast & Giveaway: Knight in Highland Armor by @amyjarecki

Presented by:

Knight in Highland Armor - Highland Dynasty # 1 by Amy Jarecki

Audience: Adult / Genre: Scottish Historical Romance / Formats: E-book and Paperback /Publisher: Rapture Books / Cover by: Kim Killion / Editor: Arran McNichol / Pages: 380 pages / ISBN: 978-1502390295 / ASIN: B00OQT919M / Date Published: Jan1, 2015.

Grieving from the death of his wife, Lord Colin Campbell listens to the cries of his newborn son whilst penning a missive to the king. With no marriage prospects, Colin petitions his majesty for help in finding a stepmother. Never again will he fall in love—the death of a woman brings more pain than losing a whole contingent of men on the battlefield. Feisty, quick tongued and smart, Margaret Robinson is delighted when her father receives a messenger from the king…until she discovers what news he brings. In a sennight, she will wed the notorious Black Knight—her life is about to end. Tension builds during the wedding and deteriorates from there…until an accident draws them together. Just when their love begins to blossom, a dire request arrives from the Pope. Colin must join the Crusades at once. Their fragile love is forced to withstand the seductions of hell—Margaret tempted by a scoundrel laird—Colin courted by Satan himself. Aye, the war for Christendom could very well ruin their dreams forever.

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Margaret reached into her purse to pluck a farthing when horse hooves pummeled the ground. Looking up, she scarcely had the chance to dash aside. Two riders thundered through the fete at a brisk canter. She tripped over her gown. The fruit flung from her basket as the horses sped past. Margaret crashed into something sturdy and hard. Her hands whipped around it, saving herself from falling. Her hood flew from her head and dropped to her back. It wasn’t until a pair of massive arms encircled her that she realized she’d fallen into a man—a very large, very strong man. She inhaled. The heady and exotic fragrance of cloves laced with a hint of ginger and male toyed with her insides. Struggling to drag her feet beneath her, Margaret made the mistake of grasping him tighter. His back muscles bulged beneath his quilted doublet. Her heart fluttered. “Forgive me,” she uttered breathlessly. His enormous hands held her shoulders firmly and helped her gain her balance. “Are you all right, m’lady?” Flustered, Margaret pushed away and smoothed her fingers over the white ribbon encircling her crown. She brushed her fingers down the length of her exposed tresses, cascading over her shoulder to her waist. First, her gaze leveled on his red tunic, with a white cross emblazoned on the center of his very broad chest. Then her eyes drifted to his face, framed by dun-colored curls. Beneath his cap, they shone like silk in the sun, and she wanted to reach up and touch them to see if his hair was actually as soft as it looked. Dark brown, wide-set eyes gazed upon her with a glint of humor. They were so friendly, her tension immediately eased. His features were undeniably masculine; his bold nose slightly bent toward full lips that grinned, revealing a row of healthy white teeth. “I…I am unscathed, thank you.” Margaret inhaled a stuttered breath and hoped to heaven she wasn’t blushing. “Please forgive me.” “There is nothing to forgive. Those lads had no business riding through the fair at full tilt. I shall have a firm word with them.” “I’m sure they are long gone…” Margaret peered up at his feathered ermine cap—a fur only worn by Scottish barons like her father. “…m’lord.” She stepped back, taking in the whole picture. She’d seen the square white cross on his tunic somewhere before—it definitely identified him as a knight, though she could not place the order. Unusually tall, he had to be at least eighteen hands—six feet was enormous, especially compared to her five. He wore a stylish doublet of black beneath the sleeveless tunic. His woolen hose were also black, and they clung to his thighs like a second skin. His muscles bulged when he stepped toward her with fashionably pointed shoes. Mmm. ’Tis said clothes maketh the man. He bent down and retrieved her basket. “I believe this is yours.” “Thank you.” Margaret spotted apples and pears scattered everywhere. “But I’m afraid the fruit I’ve purchased is ruined.” He frowned and stroked his bold chin. “Most unfortunate. Please allow me to replace it.” “That should not be necessary. I only wished to help a poor man feed his family.” “Most charitable of you, m’lady.” He offered a polite bow. “If you no longer require my assistance, I shall be on my way.” “Very well. Should I fall again, I shall simply find another gallant knight to keep me from dousing myself in the mud.” “A lucky man indeed to rescue a lady as bonny as you.” He bowed again and tapped his fingers to his hat. “Good day, m’lady.” Margaret swooned, watching him walk away. Broad shoulders supported by a sturdy waist. To her delight, the knight’s doublet was short enough to give her a peek at his muscular buttocks. With a sigh, she smacked her lips while the crowd swallowed up the magnificent warrior’s form. If only her betrothed could be half as handsome. “Margaret,” Mother called from across the aisle. “Come, I have something to show you.” This time, she looked for racing horses before she set out. God forbid she fall into another knight. And heaven help her. On the morrow, she’d have to look upon such magnificent specimens with disinterested eyes. How on earth would she do that?

1. Opening scene with Colin Campbell, Lord of Glenorchy: MOONLIGHT SONATA by Ludwig van Beethoven

2. Introduction to Lady Margaret: FUR ELISE by Ludwig van Beethoven

3. Margaret at the Fete: REGINA – from Medieval & Renaissance Music Album

4. The Wedding Scene: TOCCATA AND FUGUE IN D MINOR by J.S. Bach

5. Traveling to Kilchurn Castle: BRANDENBERG CONCERTO by J.S. Bach

6. Margaret Plays her Lute: BANCHETTO MUSICAL SUITE NO. 3: Pavane

7. First Passionate Love Scene: NOCTURE IN C# MINOR by Frederic Chopin

8. Margaret realizes she must be strong: THE SELKIE, Celtic Harp Album, Aryeh Frankfurter

9. Colin sails to Rome: FULL RIGGED SHIP, Celtic Harp Album, Aryeh Frankfurter

10. Margaret alone and pregnant at Christmas: MARY DID YOU KNOW, Pentatonix (yay, a modern performance!)

11. Colin’s final battle on Rhodes: BETRAYAL AND DESOLATION, Braveheart Movie Soundtrack

12. The dark moment: ADHAN by Kevin Keller

13. Reunited: DAWN from the Pride and Prejudice 2005 Movie Soundtrack

Colin Campbell, 1^st Lord of Glenorchy:

Philosophy on life: Never settle with words what can be accomplished with a broadsword.

Born: 1428. On 1^st October, 1432, at the age of fourteen he received the title, Lord of Glenorchy.

Height: 6’

Weight: 210

Build: Muscular in peak condition

Distinctive features: Dun (dark blond) hair with a darker beard, brown, wide set eyes, bold, angular nose, full lips.

Positive Characteristics: Confident, energetic, truthful, decisive, direct, loyal, protective, supportive, brave. Colin is an exceptional warrior.

Negative Characteristics (at times): Insensitive, domineering, demanding, uncompromising.

A Knight in the Order of St. John (Knight Hospitallers). He went on three crusades and was fabled as The Black Knight of Rome.

Colin is an asserter, and feels in control when he can sit where he can observe everything going on in a room. He has a hard outer shell; he’s tough driving, and an introvert. After losing two wives, Colin proves he has a soul, but will Margaret discover he also has a heart?

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

Margaret Robinson of Struan, Daughter of Baron and 4^th Chieftain of Struan. Raised at Dunalasdair Castle on Loch Rannoch.

Philosophy on life: Early to bed, early to rise, work like hell and you might survive.

Born: 1433

Height: 5’

Build: Slender

Distinctive features: Green, almond shaped eyes, long chestnut hair, beautiful skin.

Positive Characteristics: Energetic, efficient, optimistic, industrious, self-propelled, practical, empowering, competent, responsible.

Negative Characteristics (at times): Self-centered, pretentious, overly competitive, defensive.

Margaret can withdraw when angry, but otherwise, she has a delightfully magnetic personality. She’s well educated for the times, and very sharp. She’s always setting new goals for herself, but prefers to avoid confrontation when possible. Youthful, Margaret is full of ideals, and loves visiting court where she can observe gentlemen in their finery—especially when wearing fashionably short doublets.

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Amy adores Scotland. Though she now resides in southwest Utah, she received her MBA from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh. Winning multiple writing awards, she is now focused on the genre of Scottish historical romance. Amy loves to write steamy edge-of-your-seat action adventures with rugged men and fascinating women who weave their paths through the brutal eras of the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries.