Friday, July 15, 2016

Raven's Peak by Lincoln Cole - Excerpt & Giveaway




Raven’s Peak
World on Fire Book 1

Lincoln Cole

Genre: Horror/Paranormal Thriller
Date of Publication: 7/4/16

Number of pages: 280
Cover Artist: MN Arzu

Book Description:

A quiet little mountain town is hiding a big problem. When the townsfolk of Raven's Peak start acting crazy, Abigail Dressler is called upon to find out what is happening. She uncovers a demonic threat unlike any she's ever faced and finds herself in a fight just to stay alive.

She rescues Haatim Arison from a terrifying fate and discovers that he has a family legacy in the supernatural that he knows nothing about. Now she's forced to protect him, which is easy, and also trust him if she wants to save the townsfolk of Raven's Peak. Trust, however, is considerably more difficult for someone who grew up living on the knife's edge of danger.

Can they discover the cause of the town's insanity and put a stop to it before it is too late?






Excerpt:

“Reverend, you have a visitor.”
He couldn’t remember when he fell in love with the pain. When agony first turned to pleasure, and then to joy. Of course, it hadn’t always been like this. He remembered screaming all those years ago when first they put him in this cell; those memories were vague, though, like reflections in a dusty mirror.
“Open D4.”
A buzz as the door slid open, inconsequential. The aching need was what drove him in this moment, and nothing else mattered. It was a primal desire: a longing for the tingly rush of adrenaline each time the lash licked his flesh. The blood dripping down his parched skin fulfilled him like biting into a juicy strawberry on a warm summer’s day. 
“Some woman. Says she needs to speak with you immediately. She says her name is Frieda.”
A pause, the lash hovering in the air like a poised snake. The Reverend remembered that name, found it dancing in the recesses of his mind. He tried to pull himself back from the ritual, back to reality, but it was an uphill slog through knee-deep mud to reclaim those memories.
It was always difficult to focus when he was in the midst of his cleansing. All he managed to cling to was the name. Frieda. It was the name of an angel, he knew. . . or perhaps a devil.
One and the same when all was said and done.
She belonged to a past life, only the whispers of which he could recall. The ritual reclaimed him, embraced him with its fiery need. His memories were nothing compared to the whip in his hand, its nine tails gracing his flesh.
The lash struck down on his left shoulder blade, scattering droplets of blood against the wall behind him. Those droplets would stain the granite for months, he knew, before finally fading away. He clenched his teeth in a feral grin as the whip landed with a sickening, wet slapping sound.
“Jesus,” a new voice whispered from the doorway. “Does he always do that?”
“Every morning.”
“You’ll cuff him?”
“Why? Are you scared?”
The Reverend raised the lash into the air, poised for another strike.
“Just…man, you said he was crazy…but this…”
The lash came down, lapping at his back and the tender muscles hidden there. He let out a groan of mixed agony and pleasure.
These men were meaningless, their voices only echoes amid the rest, an endless drone. He wanted them to leave him alone with his ritual. They weren’t worth his time.
“I think we can spare the handcuffs this time; the last guy who tried spent a month in the hospital.”
“Regulation says we have to.”
“Then you do it.”
The guards fell silent. The cat-o’-nine-tails, his friend, his love, became the only sound in the roughhewn cell, echoing off the granite walls. He took a rasping breath, blew it out, and cracked the lash again. More blood. More agony. More pleasure.
“I don’t think we need to cuff him,” the second guard decided.
“Good idea. Besides, the Reverend isn’t going to cause us any trouble. He only hurts himself. Right, Reverend?”
The air tasted of copper, sickly sweet. He wished he could see his back and the scars, but there were no mirrors in his cell. They removed the only one he had when he broke shards off to slice into his arms and legs. They were afraid he would kill himself.
How ironic was that?
“Right, Reverend?”
Mirrors were dangerous things, he remembered from that past life. They called the other side, the darker side. An imperfect reflection stared back, threatening to steal pieces of the soul away forever.
“Reverend? Can you hear me?”
The guard reached out to tap the Reverend on the shoulder. Just a tap, no danger at all, but his hand never even came close. Honed reflexes reacted before anyone could possibly understand what was happening.
Suddenly the Reverend was standing. He hovered above the guard who was down on his knees. The man let out a sharp cry, his left shoulder twisted up at an uncomfortable angle by the Reverend’s iron grip.
The lash hung in the air, ready to strike at its new prey.
The Reverend looked curiously at the man, seeing him for the first time. He recognized him as one of the first guardsmen he’d ever spoken with when placed in this cell. A nice European chap with a wife and two young children. A little overweight and balding, but well-intentioned.
Most of him didn’t want to hurt this man, but there was a part—a hungry, needful part—that did. That part wanted to hurt this man in ways neither of them could even imagine. One twist would snap his arm. Two would shatter the bone; the sound as it snapped would be . . . 
A symphony rivaling Tchaikovsky.
The second guard—the younger one that smelled of fear—stumbled back, struggling to draw his gun.
“No! No, don’t!”
That from the first, on his knees as if praying. The Reverend wondered if he prayed at night with his family before heading to bed. Doubtless, he prayed that he would make it home safely from work and that one of the inmates wouldn’t rip his throat out or gouge out his eyes. Right now, he was waving his free hand at his partner to get his attention, to stop him.
The younger guard finally worked the gun free and pointed it at the Reverend. His hands were shaking as he said, “Let him go!”
“Don’t shoot, Ed!”
“Let him go!”
The older guard, pleading this time: “Don’t piss him off!”

About the Author

Lincoln Cole is a Columbus-based author who enjoys traveling and has visited many different parts of the world, including Australia and Cambodia, but always returns home to his pugamonster and wife. His love for writing was kindled at an early age through the works of Isaac Asimov and Stephen King and he enjoys telling stories to anyone who will listen.



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Thursday, July 14, 2016

Seaside Lovers by Melissa Foster - Excerpt & Giveaway


Seaside Lovers 
Love in Bloom: Seaside Summers #7

Melissa Foster

Publication date: July 20th 2016
Genres: Adult, Romance

Seaside Summers is a series of stand-alone romances that may also be enjoyed as part of the larger Love in Bloom series.
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“You can always rely on Melissa Foster to deliver a story that’s fresh, emotional and entertaining. Make sure you have all night, because once you start you won’t want to stop reading. Every book’s a winner!” New York Times Bestselling Author Brenda Novak
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“Melissa Foster is synonymous with sexy, swoony, heartfelt romance!” New York Times Bestseller Lauren Blakely 
In SEASIDE LOVERS…
After months of long-distance communication, actress Parker Collins and artist Grayson Lacroux finally plan to reconnect in the seaside town of Wellfleet, Massachusetts. But Parker never shows, and weeks pass without a word, leaving Grayson to believe he’s misinterpreted their budding relationship.
Parker has been running on autopilot ever since she lost her friend, mentor, and the only family she’s ever known, Bert Stein. Armed with junk food, tequila, and her big, lovable dog, she’s prepared to hole up and mourn–and determined to mend a fence Bert had never been able to with his estranged and bitter brother. But Parker didn’t count on the sinfully hot artist she’s been fantasizing about for nearly a year walking in on her grief-induced drunken night.
When Grayson stumbles across Parker, he has no idea what to make of the gorgeous blonde who blew him off despite the heat sizzling between them. But that doesn’t stop him from feeling protective of the woman who’s consumed his thoughts for months, and when he learns of Parker’s plans to confront an angry old man, he refuses to leave her side. As Parker’s past unfolds, they’re led on an unexpected journey of discovery. Their connection deepens, and late-night fantasies become passionate realities, until good intentions spark painful secrets, threatening the love they’ve found.
***
Seaside Summers is part of Melissa Foster’s bestselling Love in Bloom series. All Love in Bloom books may be enjoyed as stand-alone novels, or as part of the series.
SEASIDE SUMMERS
Seaside Dreams (Bella)
Seaside Hearts (Jenna)
Seaside Sunsets (Jamie)
Seaside Secrets (Amy)
Seaside Nights (Sky)
Seaside Embrace (Hunter)
Seaside Lovers (Grayson)
Seaside Whispers (Matt)
***
Read the complete LOVE IN BLOOM series:
SNOW SISTERS
THE BRADENS (at Weston, CO)
THE REMINGTONS
THE BRADENS (at Trusty, CO)
THE BRADENS (at Peaceful Harbor)
SEASIDE SUMMERS
WILD BOYS AFTER DARK
For a complete reading guide, family tree, checklists, and more, visit Melissa’s website.

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EXCERPT:

“Trust me?” Grayson asked.

“Trust a guy who hauled me over his shoulder and kidnapped me?” She looked toward the bar.

“Yeah, trust that guy.”

“I do trust you.” She poked him in his chest. “But if I end up on the front of some rag magazine, I’m hiding out in your basement. With Christmas, chocolate, and a boatload of horror movies that you have to watch with me.”

“Sweetheart, if you move into my house, you won’t be watching movies or hiding out in the basement. You’ll be lucky if you make it out of the bedroom. In fact”—he slid his hand to the nape of her neck, causing her eyes to glaze over with desire—“maybe I should take a few of those pictures and make that happen.” He’d taken a chance, saying something so brazen and holding her like this in the cab of his truck, but he couldn’t hold back.




Author Bio:
Melissa Foster is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes contemporary romance, new adult, contemporary women’s fiction, suspense, and historical fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Her books have been recommended by USA Today’s book blog, Hagerstown Magazine, The Patriot, and several other print venues. She is the founder of the World Literary CafĂ© and Fostering Success. When she’s not writing, Melissa helps authors navigate the publishing industry through her author training programs on Fostering Success. Melissa has been published in Calgary’s Child Magazine, the Huffington Post, and Women Business Owners magazine.
Melissa hosts an Aspiring Authors contest for children and has painted and donated several murals to The Hospital for Sick Children in Washington, DC. Melissa lives in Maryland with her family 
Visit Melissa on social media. Melissa enjoys discussing her books with book clubs and reader groups, and welcomes an invitation to your event.

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Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Interview with Catherine F. Olen, Author of The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt + Giveaway

I am a total Disneyphile and am thrilled to welcome Catherine F. Olen to the blog today to discuss her book, The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt!

Where did you get the inspiration to write The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt?

I have had a forty-year love affair with all thing Disney and been a Disneyland annual pass holder for over twenty-five years. Watching guests of the theme parks run down Main Street USA to stand in line hour after hour while missing so much of the fine details surrounding them made me want to show the Disneyland I have come to love.

How did you get started as a writer?

All my life I have been a storyteller, I had never given thought to putting my thoughts down into book form until 2008 when I wrote my first books, The Final Curtain, Celebrity Deaths and The Upside of Undertaking. I found writing came fairly easily never seeming to run out of content on subjects that charge me emotionally.
The decision to write about Disneyland came one day when I was watching a family try in vain to keep their children entertained while standing in line for the various attraction in Fantasyland. It came to me that what was needed was a way to keep guests entertained during their idle time in the theme parks. I feel this adds to their day as the hours fly by when you are engaged in what is around you.

I’ve heard you say you do not consider yourself as expert on Disney, can you explain what you mean?

I have a love and passion for all thing Disney. While I feel I know quite a bit about Disneyland resort, I never want there to be a day that goes by when I don’t learn something new about Disneyland. It would be a sad day if I knew so much there was nothing new to explore about Disneyland. Fortunately, Walt Disney’s immortal words, “Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world. It is something that will never be finished. Something that I can keep developing and adding to”

Now that you have completed The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt, what is next for you?

I have exciting plans for the net books in my series, The Great Walt Disney World Scavenger Hunt and The Great Universal Studios Florida Scavenger Hunt coming soon. Guests will have the opportunity to see the theme parks of Florida through new eyes as I expand on my passion for theme parks around the globe.

Do you have advice for families visiting Disneyland resort for the first time?

For families with small children, make sure they are well hydrated and give them healthy snacks during your time in the parks. Nothing will ruin your day quicker than feeding the kids sugary snacks and soda pop first thing in the morning. Fortunately, Disneyland resort offers many healthy alternatives throughout the parks.  Avoiding a crash mid-day will make your time much more enjoyable. Also, keep your copy of The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt handy so they will be entertained throughout your stay at the Disneyland resort.



See the enchantment of the Disneyland resort in a whole new way with "The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt." From Main Street U.S.A. to New Orleans Square, Walt Disney lovingly designed every detail to immerse guests in the magic of his theme parks.

See Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure through new eyes when you discover fantasy, thrills, and dreams around every turn. Whether you’re perusing the shops, waiting in line, or riding attractions, there’s plenty to uncover for even the most knowledgeable Disney fan.

If this is your first visit or your five hundredth, you will discover something new with "The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt."



About the Author


Catherine Olen has enjoyed a love affair with the magic of the Disney theme parks for as long as she can remember, counting herself among Disneyland passholders for the last twenty-five years. Previously, Olen owned and operated Hollywood Grave Hunter and is the proud author of The Final Curtain: Celebrity Deaths and The Upside of Undertaking, chronicling her previous career experiences. She has been a correspondent to Entertainment Tonight (US and France), The Biography Channel, Reelz Network, and the Mark & Brian radio show.

Connect with the author:  Website  ~  Twitter  ~  Facebook  ~  Pinterest  ~  Instagram

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Tuesday, July 12, 2016

Interview with Carol Riggs, Author of Bottled + Giveaway


Lightning Round Interview with Carol Riggs 

Here’s a quick interview with Carol Riggs, the author of BOTTLED. 

1. Your novel in 5 words? Genie looking for lost love.
2. Twitter or Facebook? Twitter
3. Favorite TV show? Fringe…or wait, maybe Dollhouse…or Firefly…
4. Sweet or salty? Salty (hand me my chips!)
5. Favorite superhero? Batman, man
6. Coke or Pepsi? Ugh, neither. I don’t like the bubbles!
7. Favorite movie? Star Wars
8. Song that’s stuck in your head right now? “Honeybee” by Steam Powered Giraffe
9. What are you afraid of? Swimming when my feet can’t touch bottom
10. Favorite movie-to-book adaptation? Harry Potter
11. Favorite book? Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury
12. Favorite YA author? Maggie Stiefvater (especially Lament, Ballad)
13. Superpower of choice? Flying, which I do in my dreams to escape danger
14. Most unique hobby? I collect dragons
15. Mountains or the beach? The beach
16. Favorite food? Pizza!
17. Favorite color? Blue-green
18. Drafting or revising? drafting (more creative), but revising is nicely challenging
19. How are you weird/different from others? I don’t own a smart phone!
20. Secret talent: I know shorthand—it’s handy for note-taking at writer conferences


Bottled

Carol Riggs

Genre: YA Fantasy
Release Date: July 7th 2016
Clean Reads

Summary from Goodreads:

At seventeen, Adeelah Naji is transformed into a genie and imprisoned in a bottle. For a thousand years, she fulfills the wishes of greedy masters—building their palaces, lining their pockets with gold, and granting them every earthly pleasure. All that sustains her is the hope of finding Karim, the boy she fell in love with as a human. When at last she finds a note from her beloved, she confirms he has access to the elixir of life and that he still searches for her. 

But someone else also hunts her. Faruq—the man who plots to use her powers to murder and seize the life forces of others—is just one step behind her. With the help of a kind master named Nathan, Adeelah continues to search for Karim while trying to evade Faruq. To complicate matters, she begins to experience growing fatigue and pain after conjuring, and finds herself struggling against an undeniable attraction to Nathan.

As Faruq closes in, Adeelah must decide just how much she’ll risk to protect Nathan and be with Karim forever. How much power does she really have to change her future, and what is she willing to sacrifice for an eternity of love? If she makes the wrong choice, the deaths of many will be on her hands.




Buy Links:
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About the Author
Carol Riggs is an author of fiction for young adults (and adults!) who lives in the beautiful green state of Oregon, USA. Her debut novel, The Body Institute, released Sept 2015 from Entangled Teen, exploring body image and identity. Her fantasy YA, Bottled, will release from Clean Reads on July 7, 2016, and her sci-fi YA, Safe Zone, will release from Entangled Teen in October 2016. She enjoys reading, drawing and painting, writing conferences, walking with her husband, and enjoying music and dance of all kinds. You will usually find her in her writing cave, surrounded by her dragon collection and the characters in her head.


Author Links:
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Monday, July 11, 2016

Tainted by Ginna Moran - Excerpt & Giveaway





Tainted 
Demon Within #1

by Ginna Moran

Genre: YA Paranormal Romance/Fantasy
Release Date: June 30th 2016
Sunny Palms Press

Summary from Goodreads:


Seventeen-year-old Cami Anders uses one word to describe her life: Purgatory. What she doesn’t know is she’s closer to Hell than she thinks.

On the run from the demon that killed her parents, Cami struggles to find her place on the fringes of the Veiled Realm, the part of the world where demons and other creatures lurk in the shadows. Striving to find a normal life in the care of a former demon hunter, who would punch even an angel to protect her, is harder than Cami ever imagined. There’s nothing ordinary about sipping holy water like it’s her beverage of choice, having stare-downs with animalistic demons, and relying on a hunter with enough secrets to fill an ocean to keep her soul safe.

When the demon from Cami’s past arrives to collect her soul, which he believes is rightfully his, she must unravel the secrets her protector has spent the last three years keeping from her. She finds herself questioning her existence and learns that running isn’t the answer. The only way to find normalcy is if she fights for it. But is it worth the risk of losing everything, including her soul, in the end?



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Excerpt

I somersault backwards, throwing my legs over my head before the demon shoves its tusks into my side. I land on my knees and jump back to my feet, disoriented from the sudden movement.
The demon roars.
I watch in horror as it rises on two legs. Its small forelegs now look like T-Rex arms except its claws don’t look like they can bend to grab onto me. They look like chicken feet with talon-sharp nails.
The demon waddles toward me, and I crouch low, spreading my arms wide to maintain my balance. I angle my arm into a hook and thrust my dagger out, ripping the demon’s underbelly. Black goo sprays out like a fountain, coating my face and hair with its awful smelling slime. My chest heaves as I fight the urge to gag. I swipe my sleeve over my mouth to wipe away the demon blood as best I can.
The demon falls over, its legs twitching, trying to stabilize itself. I jump to my feet and kick it onto its stomach to let the blood pour out faster. It claws at the ground, realizing that it can’t outmatch me. Before it can flee, I ram my dagger straight into the back of its skull. The demon drops to the ground, unmoving. God, this is disgusting.

I step back and watch the demon dissolve into a runny mess. Come dawn, the sun will take care of the rest of the cleanup. At least it’s one less thing I’ll have to worry about.

About the Author
Ginna Moran is the author of the Destined for Dreams and Finding Nate series. She lives in Austin, Texas but is originally from Southern California.
When she realized her love of writing was her life’s passion, she studied literature and writing at Mira Costa College in Northern San Diego. Besides writing novels, she was the senior editor, content manager, and image coordinator for Crescent House Publishing Inc. for four years.
Aside from Ginna's professional life, she enjoys binge watching television shows, playing pretend with her daughter, and cuddling with her dogs. Some of her favorite things include chocolate, anything that glitters, digital design work, and organizing her bookshelves.

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