Summer Lovin’ Blog Hop with a Great Giveaway and Hot Kisses

Posted on by

It’s Summer and there are prizes!

That’s a reason to CELEBRATE but don’t forget your sunscreen.

cmpbloghop

 

KissAs romance readers we all wait with baited breath for that one moment when the hero and heroine first kiss. The immediate lead up and the kiss itself should build tension and romantic chemistry. A well-crafted kiss causes us to hold our breaths and then exhale with a satisfied sigh. Whether the romance is sweet or sexy, the first kiss is an absolute necessity. Without it, what’s the point?

I’ve read so many great first kisses. It seems there are an infinite number of ways to express a great kiss. But my all-time favorite first kiss is written by Karen Marie Moning in How to Tame a Highland Warrior. If you haven’t read it, it’s worth it just to read that first kiss in the fog. Amazing.

In my current release, Queen of Jastain, Abby and Avant, the hero and heroine, first kiss at the Wine Harvest Festival. The kiss, which begins as a perfunctory kiss of tradition in front of a crowd, quickly becomes an act of intimacy where the characters convey things with their bodies that they aren’t prepared to verbalized for many more chapters.

Here is an exclusive excerpt of Abby and Avant’s first kiss from Queen of Jastain. I hope you hold your breath and enjoy.

 

“So what happens, after this dance?”

He narrowed his eyes and a devilish smile stole over his face. “I’m going to kiss you.”

“Kiss me?” Abby knew from his memories it was a perfunctory kiss of tradition, but she suspected Avant just wanted to see her flustered, which, admittedly, she was. The thought of touching him, lips to lips, for any reason caused her stomach to turn flip-flops.

His smug smile irked her. Armed with the boldness of several glasses of wine, maybe she could turn the tables on him for a change. Shifting her gaze sidelong at him, she allowed herself a tight-lipped smile and searched his face for any hint of revelation.

When the song ended, everyone cheered and clapped. Abby pushed her intentions to the back of her mind and hoped to God Avant didn’t read her thoughts. Her heart hammered with anticipation. She was going to get him good.

A tall man in military regalia handed Avant a wreath of grape leaves, which he in turn placed on her head. Then he gracefully bent and pecked her on the lips. But as he pulled away, Abby wrapped her arms around his neck and drew him into a real kiss.

Her lips embraced his with exuberance. Her senses heightened in awareness, reaching for a full experience of him. His touch. His smell. His taste. He expelled a sigh into her mouth and seemed too stunned to do anything but kiss her back.

Surprisingly soft and warm, his mouth responded to the light rhythmic pace she set. His lips parted, and the moist expanse engulfed her to breathlessness. His arms encircled her waist and drew her closer. Her breasts brushed against him. Intensity radiated between them. Their bodies buzzed with awareness like a live wire split in two and held in close proximity. A feeling of being, all at once, too close and not nearly close enough warred within her. Their breaths became labored as he deepened the kiss. For a precious stolen moment, she lingered in her fantasy and pretended he belonged to her. But all too soon reality set in. The murmur of the crowd broke the spell and reminded her of where she was.

Reluctantly, Abby slid her arms from around his neck, and placed her palms flat against his chest. His heart thundered beneath her fingers. She pulled from him. A groan escaped his lips. She got the feeling that, had she not pulled away from him, he wouldn’t have stopped. Looking into his surprised blue eyes, she bit her lower lip and smiled sheepishly.

The crowd roared with laughter and applause.

The raw desire in his gaze gave way to fury as he yanked her hand and pulled her to the receiving line in front of the dais. Not sure if he was angry that she’d started the kiss or ended it, she couldn’t help but giggle. He’d blushed! She did a mental fist pump.

Thanks for stopping by. Leave me a comment about your favorite first kiss. And don’t forget to get a copy of Queen of Jastain available in digital and print formats at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, All Romance ebooks and many other places.

Queen of Jastain Book One in The Reign of Light Series

The Epic Fantasy Romance is available now on AMAZON /  Barnes and Noble / All Romance ebooks!

QoJlargeThe Light brought her to him, but does he have the faith to make her his queen?

For twenty years, Avant plotted revenge against the dark king, but when a mysterious woman suddenly appears, everything changes. Although his prophetic Gift reveals she’s the Seed of Light chosen to restore the Crown, his overwhelming attraction to the women threatens his long-held plan for revenge and two decades of fidelity.

Abby Randall is inexplicably transported from Dallas to the medieval land of Jastain. There she meets Avant, who claims she’s the foretold champion of his people. While the hot guy has her hormones pumping, his crazy talk of defeating an evil king leaves questions to his sanity. Through his supernatural Gift, Avant transplants his memories into her, but neither are prepared for how their hearts intertwine.

Together they embark on their quest, but when Abby and Avant come face to face with destiny, will they sacrifice what matters most to provide a happily-ever-after for the people of Jastain?

Avant's Sword Charm

I’m giving away a a Charm Necklace so leave a comment and be registered for that prize and also the Grand Prize of a Kindle Paperwhite. Head to any of the following places and leave a comment for your chance to win even more!!

Guest Post: Zombies and the Lazarus Syndrome By Lindsey Loucks

Posted on by

Lazarus Syndrome: Or, Here Comes the Zombie Apocalypse! Run!!!

Single tree in field during winter 2Dead people are always coming back to life. Whether it’s TV, movies, books, or real life, those silly dead people just don’t want to stay put. Wait, did I just type “real life”? Yes, yes I did. Dun, dun, dun!

Dead people have been coming back for years. I promise I’m not kidding. One scientific name for it is Lazarus Syndrome, which Wikipedia describes as “the spontaneous return of circulation after failed attempts at resuscitation. Its occurrence has been noted in medical literature at least 25 times since 1982. Also called Lazarus phenomenon, it takes its name from Lazarus who, according to the New Testament, was raised from the dead by Jesus.”

News stories about this phenomenon are here, here, and here. Creepy.

Sarah, the popular prom queen in my book, The Grave Winner, has come back from the dead. The town blames it on Lazarus Syndrome, but some people just aren’t buying that explanation. Sarah looks too scary to have been miracle-ized. Perhaps it’s something much darker than anyone could have imagined.

But if Lazarus Syndrome really does exist, it doesn’t make the zombie apocalypse seem all that farfetched. Dead people are already coming back, after all. It wouldn’t take much more for them to come back in hordes and take over the world.

If that happens, you could run. Or you could be badass like my main character, Leigh, and face the coming dark. Her sole plan is to live, but your plan could be much more detailed than that. Your friendly Center for Disease Control and Prevention has a whole section on their website devoted to zombie preparedness. Read it, memorize it, because you just never know.

Your turn! What are your thoughts on Lazarus Syndrome? Is the zombie apocalypse coming? What is your zombie preparedness plan?

 

Blurb:

Leigh Baxton is terrified her mom will come back from the dead — just like the prom queen did.

While the town goes beehive over the news, Leigh bikes to the local cemetery and buries some of her mom’s things in her grave to keep her there. When the hot and mysterious caretaker warns her not to give gifts to the dead, Leigh cranks up her punk music and keeps digging.

She should have listened.

Two dead sorceresses evicted the prom queen from her grave to bury someone who offered certain gifts. Bury them alive, that is, then resurrect them to create a trio of undead powerful enough to free the darkest sorceress ever from her prison inside the earth.

With help from the caretaker and the dead prom queen, Leigh must find out what’s so special about the gifts she gave, and why the sorceresses are stalking her and her little sister. If she doesn’t, she’ll either lose another loved one or have to give the ultimate gift to the dead – herself.

Bio:

authorphoto2 (426x640) (426x640)Lindsey R. Loucks works as a school librarian in rural Kansas. When she’s not discussing books with anyone who will listen, she’s dreaming up her own stories. Eventually her brain gives out, and she’ll play hide and seek with her cat, put herself in a chocolate induced coma, or watch scary movies alone in the dark to reenergize.

She’s been with her significant other for almost two decades.

 

Links:

Buy The Grave Winner on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CRLM062/ref=s9_simh_gw_p351_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=0PJ76EDY9V530SAJ4BZE&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1389517282&pf_rd_i=507846

 

Buy The Grave Winner at Barnes & Noble:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-grave-winner-lindsey-r-loucks/1115324294?ean=9781939173270

 

Add The Grave Winner to Goodreads:

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/14741901-the-grave-winner

 

Watch the book trailer on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NVwGEaLvcY

Check out Lindsey’s website: http://www.lindseyrloucks.com

Follow Lindsey on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LindseyRLoucks

Follow Lindsey on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/LindseyRLoucks

 

 

Author Interview: Maer Wilson

Posted on by

I am so excited to welcome a friend and fresh new voice in Urban Fantasy to the blog! Thanks for being here, Maer.

Kary, thanks so much for having me on your blog!

 

Can you tell us about your story and how you came up with the idea?

Relics 599x900Relics is a Contemporary Fantasy that takes place in San Francisco and follows the exploits of husband and wife detectives, Thulu and La Fi. The couple’s clients are usually dead, which is fine with them since they work only with the supernatural – dead, undead, whatever. But their simple job to find lost relics for an ancient daemon turns into a grand adventure when the creatures of myth and magic return to Earth, confirming that humans are definitely not alone. Relics is Book 1 of The Thulukan Chronicles.

I got the idea from Thulu and La Fi’s names. The names actually came from nicknames I was going to give two gaming friends, but the characters were there laying claim to the names and telling me their story so I just went with it.

The following questions are general. Feel free to answer, edit, or delete at will.

Looking back over all of the intimate moments you’ve created between characters, which scene would you most like to experience for yourself?  What makes it so alluring?

I love Thulu and La Fi’s ritual of sitting in their window seat at night and looking out at the lights of San Francisco. This is their time to review their day or just sit and share the silence.

 

Which genres do you write in and why?

I write in Urban Fantasy, but it really is an amalgamation of others as well. There’s mystery, adventure and paranormal. There’s even a touch of sci fi once you get into Book 2. I love fantasy and this was just the natural result of what I like to read.

What are you currently working on?

I’m working on Book 3 of The Thulukan Chronicles, but I can’t say much about it without giving away spoilers for Book 2.

 

Do you have any writing quirks?

I love to listen to film and gaming soundtracks while I write.

 

What gets you into the mood to write?

Usually I’m ready to dive into my characters’ world whenever I can. Especially if I start chatting with someone I’m ready to stop talking and get to writing.

 

Any words of advice to aspiring authors?

I would strongly recommend that they get several good beta readers who can give constructive feedback. They should pick someone whose opinions and advice they respect and be willing to listen to that advice. That means they should use caution when choosing their betas. I also recommend that they polish their work. One big issue I see is when writers rush their work. I think a lot potential for a far better book is lost when they do that.

 

And finally, is there anything you would like to share?

I also have a literary podcast called MythBehaving where we have some pretty great guests. I’d like to invite your readers to stop by and give us a listen. They can find us at http://mythbehaving.com/.

Thank you again for a great interview.Maer Author

Former actor and Southern Nevada resident Maer Wilson joined the ranks of published authors on May 1, 2013. Wilson’s first book, Relics, is published by Crescent Moon Press. Relics is a Contemporary Fantasy that takes place in San Francisco and follows the exploits of husband and wife detectives, Thulu and La Fi. The couple’s clients are usually dead, which is fine with them since they work only with the supernatural. But their simple job to find lost relics for an ancient daemon turns into a grand adventure when the creatures of myth and magic return to Earth, confirming that humans are definitely not alone. You can find more information about Wilson and Relics at http://maerwilson.com/ and http://crescentmoonpress.com/books/Relics.html.

Book Blurb

Most of Thulu and La Fi’s clients are dead. Which is perfect since their detective agency caters to the supernatural. So, a job finding relics for an ancient daemon should be simple.

The daemon needs the relics to keep a dangerous portal closed. His enemy, Gabriel, wants the relics to open the portal and give his people access to a new feeding ground – Earth.

Stunning humanity with their existence, portals to other worlds begin to open and the creatures of magic return to Earth.

When Gabriel threatens their family, Thulu and La Fi’s search becomes personal. The couple will need powerful allies in the race to find the relics before Gabriel does. But maybe that’s what grateful dead, magical allies and daemonic clients are for.

When the creatures of myth and magic return to Earth, they’re nothing like your mother’s fairy tales.

Maer’s Bio

After a successful career being other people, and later teaching others the many tricks of that trade, Maer Wilson has decided to be herself for a while. Turns out she’s a writer. She’s always loved stories, especially fantasy, mystery and sci fi. Maer was born in the Year of the Dragon and has a dragon-themed room in her home, but sadly no dragons in the back yard. When she’s not writing, Maer plays online video games, teaches college and reads. She also co-hosts the literary podcast, “MythBehaving” and writes for two gaming fansites. She lives in the high desert of Southern Nevada with her two dogs, a chihuahua and a poodle. Relics is her first novel and is published by Crescent Moon Press. It’s currently available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. You can visit her website at maerwilson.com.

 

Praise for Relics

“‘Relics’ is a powerful read which will challenge long-held perceptions of good vs. evil and Light vs. Dark well after the book is finished.” Diane M. Haynes, author of Rift Healer, YA finalist in the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence.

 

“In Relics, author Maer Wilson takes everything you think you know about the creatures of the fantasy world and twists it around to create a unique and engaging story.”  Constance Philips, author of Resurrecting Harry and Fairyproof.

 

“The perfect paranormal detective, Wilson’s unique and suspenseful tale pulls you in and doesn’t let go.”  Jean Murray, author of Soul Awakened and Soul Reborn.

 

Maer’s Links

Maer’s Website: http://maerwilson.com/

Maer’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Maer-Wilson-Author/149085628472833

Maer’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/MaerWilson

Relics at Goodreads:  http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17767013-relics

Relics Paperback at Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Relics-Maer-Wilson/dp/1939173310/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_t_1_E8ZZ

Relics Kindle at Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Relics-ebook/dp/B00CLB6HUI/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_t_1_DARZ

Relics at Barnes & Noble:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/relics-maer-wilson/1115158495?ean=9781939173317

Relics – The Book Trailer link on YouTube:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=un2PHs5oGwg

 

 

Relics – Excerpt

I must have lost track of time because I heard a voice say, “You’re going to turn into a prune.”

“Mhmm,” I answered.

The door opened. A cool draft of air wafted my way, swirling the steam in the shower. I peeked out to see Thulu shutting the door behind him. It was a great view.

“So, have I ever mentioned that I’m a soul reader?”

I moved forward to clear the small waterfall and gave him a suspicious look. One never knew with Thulu.

“No, I don’t think you’ve shared that bit of information.”

“I’m quite good at it, actually.” He sat on one of the side seats and motioned to the one across from him. I moved to the other seat.

Nodding, he continued, “I’m quite surprised you didn’t know this. In some circles, I’m known as the Great and Wonderful Reader of Souls.”

“Oh, really?  I’m shocked that this could have escaped my attention all these years.”

“Well, this is the perfect time for me to read yours. Being that you’re all pruney.”

I looked at my hands. They were pretty pruney. I shrugged and held out my hand palm up.

“Oh, honestly, love. Not your hand. Give me your foot.”

I giggled. “Okay you meant ‘sole’ reader.”

He nodded. “Absolutely. The lines in the sole of the foot can tell a lot about a person’s future,” he added wisely.

“Uh-huh, I’ll bite.” I lifted my foot and rested it on his knee. Thulu peered intently at it for a moment.

“Aha!  I see that tomorrow your adoring husband will let you sleep in and then cook a wonderful breakfast.”

“Thulu!” I protested. “You can’t predict things that you can make happen. It doesn’t count.”

He looked at me in mock disbelief. “Do you question the Great and Wonderful Reader of Soles?”

“I’m just saying it doesn’t count to say something is going to happen when you know very well you are the one who can make it happen.”

“Does that mean you don’t want breakfast?”

“I didn’t say that.” I backtracked a bit. “Just that you are making a self-fulfilling prophecy.”

He ignored me and peered at the bottom of my foot once again. “I also see in your future –” He looked in my eyes, then back at my foot. “There’s some fog here. No, wait a moment. I don’t think it’s fog. I think – yes, I’m sure of it. I see shower steam.” He looked up again, dimpling at me. “I foresee, in your very near future, fabulous shower sex.”

I watched him closely. He raised an eyebrow.

“Aren’t you going to make a smart-ass comment about more self-fulfilling prophecies?” he asked innocently.

“No, I think I’ll just let you fulfill that prophecy.”

The Romance Reviews Question and Answer

Posted on by

Queen of Jastain, Book One is available now at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and All Romance ebooks!

 

Avant1Name: Commander Avant, Lord Ventium

Role: Hero

How does another character describe him/her:

Abby, the heroine, is quoted as saying, My God, he was gorgeous, but way too…Shakespearian.

Occupation:

Lord Ventium, Ruler of Domentus Ventium in the Freelands of Jastain, Commander of the Armies of the Freelands, future King as prophesied by The Light and wielder of the Sapphire Sword.

Distinguishing characteristics: Tall with broad shoulders, imposing, wavy dark hair, striking blue eyes

Personality: Avant is a philosopher at heart. He loves to study ancient texts and prophecies. His chief joy comes from exploring his world and finding hidden treasures in nature, such as rare plants or geological formations.

Favorite Line of dialogue: “The difference between success and failure is the direction of your will. It is always too soon to admit defeat.”

 Queen of Jastain Blurb:

For twenty years, Avant plotted revenge against the dark king, but when a mysterious woman suddenly appears, everything changes. Although his prophetic Gift reveals she’s the Seed of Light chosen to restore the Crown, his overwhelming attraction to the women threatens his long-held plan for revenge and two decades of fidelity.

Abby Randall is inexplicably transported from Dallas to the medieval land of Jastain. There she meets Avant, who claims she’s the foretold champion of his people. While the hot guy has her hormones pumping, his crazy talk of defeating an evil king leaves questions to his sanity. Through his supernatural Gift, Avant transplants his memories into her, but neither are prepared for how their hearts intertwine.

Together they embark on their quest, but when Abby and Avant come face to face with destiny, will they sacrifice what matters most to provide a happily-ever-after for the people of Jastain?

Release Day Blitz: When Love Prospers by Melanie Macek

Posted on by

We are celebrating Melanie Macek’s release day for When Love Prospers with lots of fun. Welcome Melanie!

When Love Prospers Banner Final

Synopsis:

The timing of the job at Larsen Financial is perfect for Helen Randall. Coming off of a several failed relationships, she desperately needs not only the boost to her bank account but also to her self-esteem.  When her immediate supervisor leaves for a two week vacation, Helen will be forced to work with Trevor. When her personal life intrudes on her professional one, Trevor becomes an unexpected ally. It becomes difficult to keep from thinking about her boss in a less than professional manner.

Trevor Mcintosh is good at his job. When the CEO of Larsen Financial offered him the opportunity to start up and run the San Francisco branch office, he jumped at the chance. After six months in the city, he’s getting tired of the constant round of parties, women and meetings. When he’s forced to work one on one with Helen, he finds that the woman he barely acknowledged in the past poses a serious threat to his sanity. He’s ready to give up his late nights out in exchange for evenings in with one woman. Can he convince her they would be better as a team outside of work too?

 

Melaine AuthorAuthor’s Bio & Picture: Melanie has been writing in some form or another as long as she can remember. From songs to plays (a bad one) to poetry (not her forte) to romance, the urge to write has always been there. She read her first romance book at the age of 13 and hasn’t looked back. A voracious reader, Melanie has been making an effort to expand her reading horizons, thanks to forced college papers. Other genres have captured her imagination, but Romance will always hold her heart.

A native Californian desert rat, Melanie has lived over half of her life on the Texas Gulf Coast. Braving mosquitoes, humidity, and the occasional voluntary hurricane evacuation, she and her husband and their two 4-legged children – who have their own page on the blog – spend time with family, friends, and planning their next travel adventure. She writes in most of her spare time and always makes sure to take a pen and paper with her just about everywhere she goes.

You can find her at:

 Author Links:

Amazon author page. http://www.amazon.com/Melanie-Macek/e/B00B44HEPA/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1365541352&sr=8-1

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6899613.Melanie_Macek

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/melaniemacek/

Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/MelMacekauthor

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/MelDFMac

Blog: http://featherpenstartandreams.wordpress.com/

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/melanie-macek

Guest Post by Mary Banos

Posted on by

Please join me in welcoming a fellow author and high school mate, Mary Banos.

Book Cover2Mary, it is a pleasure to have you here. I won’t date us by saying when we went to high school together, but Mary and I graduated from the High School of Performing and Visual Arts at Booker T. Washington in Dallas, Texas. She recently published her first non-fiction book titled, Uplifting One Life at a Time. I am excited to share your encouraging message!

Thank you for having me here, Kary.

“Each of us has times of needing encouragement in our lives.  We also can each find opportunities daily to encourage others around us.  It can be easy to get lost in our day to day lives, neglecting ourselves when we could be finding ways to help ourselves, and missing opportunities of helping other people.

I first suggest that you take an inner look at yourself, your goals in life, how you feel about reaching those goals, and to recognize ways which you can encourage yourself in obtaining each of your goals.  Think about the decisions which you make during day to day activities.  Are they choices that are healthy for you emotionally and mentally?  Are you uplifting yourself?  And are you finding ways to obtain the goals which you desire?

Next think about the people who you encounter day to day:  family, friends, co-workers, acquaintances, and others.  Who could you reach out to each day?  A compliment to be given?  A word of encouragement?

Each of us can make a difference in lives, our own as well as those around us.  We can make a true difference.”

My bio:

Mary has worked in financial aid in higher education for over 16 years, assisting students with the financial means to achieve their goal of a college education. Mary was fortunate to overcome a troubled childhood, plagued with times of depression, resulting in random thoughts of committing suicide. In her adulthood, Mary overcame the pain that was her past. This past developed within her the life long passion of helping and encouraging others. Mary is working on a Masters of Science degree in Family Studies. Her goal is to be an author and motivational public speaker ,while her collective passion is to encourage others, help others overcome obstacles, and to reach their goals and dreams.

Link for the book:

http://www.amazon.com/Uplifting-One-Life-Time-Encouragement/dp/0615773303/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1364594022&sr=8-1&keywords=mary+banos

Mary’s website:

www.encouraginglife.com

My publishers are still working on my website. Once complete, we will have chat rooms and discussion forums.  It will be a social network, with the goal of creating a “community of encouragement.”  I want it to be a place where people can come to talk and encourage each other.

Book excerpt:

“George Barnard Shaw stated, “Life isn’t about finding yourself.  Life is about creating you.”(12)  Within you is the ability to be the person who you desire to be and to have the life which you deeply desire.  When your past is one that would lead in a direction other than your desired future, then it is completely in your hands and control.  You can shift the path that your past would dictate for you.

If your life started in a direction that would hinder your success and happiness, then it is up to you to change the road that you are on.  For some, counseling is needed.  For others, it makes a difference to have people around you who give you encouragement and support.  Regardless of whether or not you need help from others, you will most definitely need to become able to encourage yourself.”

 

Interview and Giveaway with Geoffrey from Time Enough to Love, Betrothal by Jenna Jaxon

Posted on by

iStock_000015986829XSmallI have a special treat for you all today! One of my all-time favorite KISA (Knight in Shining Armor) is here for an interview. **Sigh** Thank goodness it’s just him and not his author or, god forbid, his betrothed. Now he can focus only on me! and you.

Leave a comment at the end of the post for a chance to win one of the books in Jenna Jaxon’s backlist!

Please welcome Sir Geoffrey Longford.

(Sir Geoffrey enters.  He is a big man, about 6 ft 4” tall, with dark brown hair and sapphire blue eyes.  There is a tightness about his mouth, as if he is impatient with these proceedings, but there is also a glint of amusement in his eyes.  He wears atight-fitting  parti-colored cotehardie and chauses, blue and burgundy)

My heart is fluttering around the website somewhere. Wow!  Ummm…Who are you? Give your full name and title/race. Do you have special abilities?

*he bows* I am Sir Geoffrey Longford, a courtier in the service of His Majesty King Edward III.  I am currently waiting to sail to Spain with the king’s daughter, Princess Joanna, as second in command of the voyage.

As a knight I have worked hard to hone my skills with the weapons of my trade—the sword and the lance.  *he smiles*  I have won tournaments both in England and in France. And I have seen real battle in the service of the king.

I bet you are handy with your sword, my lord. **blushes furiously** What were your conflicts and obstacles in your story?

*He sighs* They were many.  I was betrothed to a woman I had never met, who was in love with my best friend.  Each time I tried to woo her for myself, some barrier to our happiness was thrust before us.  At one point I despaired of ever winning her regard, and resolved to end the betrothal.

What did you think of Lady Alyse de Courcy when you first met?

I hesitate to admit it, but she bewitched me from the moment we met.  Her beauty, her wit, her spirit all combined to make me believe myself the most fortunate of men.

I love how you talk about her. It makes me sigh! So tell me about you–What is your greatest strength? Greatest weakness? How have they influenced you and your relationships to date?

I deem my skills at strategy my greatest strength.  It has served me well both on and off the battlefield.  My resourcefulness also has stood me in good stead, especially where Lady Alyse is concerned.

My greatest weakness, sadly, is my jealous nature where my betrothed is concerned.  Until I met her, I could have denied any such emotion resided in my body.  But those wretched flames have consumed me from almost the moment we met.  And through it, I have hurt others grievously.

For those who love with passion, jealousy can be a burden. In your story, what moment was the most memorable, the most meaningful to you? Why?

*laughs softly*  That would be telling, Mistress Kary.  Lady Jenna would fain allow me to reveal the most memorable moment.  I can impart, however, that one memorable point was when I first stole a kiss from my lady. *His eyes deepen to darkest blue* She possesses a small beauty mark, just there. *he brushes a fingertip over a spot above the right corner of Kary’s mouth*  ‘Twas too tempting to resist that morning.

**GULP**And finally, is there anything you would like to share?

My deepest regards to you, Mistress Kary, for inviting me to share some of our story with you.  *he raises her hand to his lips* ‘Twill be my pleasure to meet with you again, gentle lady, should the need arise.  *with another courtly bow and a wicked grin, he turns on his heel and disappears through the door*

You are welcome anytime, Sir! Anytime. Day or night!!! (I probably shouldn’t yell that too loudly. My husband night hear me.)

 

betrothal-with-log finalBlurb for Betrothal:

Lady Alyse de Courcy has fallen in love with Lord Braeton, a nobleman in King Edward III’s court and a man to whom she has barely spoken. Fate, however, has decreed her betrothal to his best friend, Sir Geoffrey Longford—a handsome and imposing knight, yet hardly the man she wants to wed.

When Sir Geoffrey is bound in betrothal by his father, he could not have expected the beautiful stranger to win his heart the moment they meet. Nevertheless, the fascinating Lady Alyse has done exactly that, and his feelings for her only grow as he learns more of her gentle yet spirited nature. But Alyse’s infatuation with his friend casts doubt on whether she can ever return his regard and their wedding day is fast approaching…

Will he have time enough to win her love?

Excerpt for Betrothal:

“What do you require of me, Majesty?” Her mouth so dry she could taste sand, Alyse fought to speak in a normal tone. With a sigh of relief, she dropped into a deep curtsy, hiding her face in the folds of her skirt. If only she could remain bowed thus before His Majesty for the remainder of the evening.

King Edward laughed. “Obedience, Lady Alyse, as I require of all my subjects. As your father requires of his daughter.”

Her heart thumped wildly in her breast. That could mean but one thing.

“Rise, my lady.”

She did so on unsteady feet. “I am ready, as always, Your Majesty, to obey my father as I would you.”

Holy Mary, let it be Lord Braeton.

King Edward lifted an eyebrow toward Alyse. “A very pretty answer, my lady. And are you ready to accept your father’s decree for your betrothal? His messenger has today reached me with the contract, as I am to stand in his stead in this matter.”

Alyse took a deep breath and hoped her voice did not tremble. “Yea, Majesty, I will obey my father.”

King Edward nodded and leaned over to whisper something to Queen Phillipa, who sat beside him, heavy with their twelfth child.

Mere seconds before she learned her fate. She could scarce affect an indifferent pose before the court when inside every inch of her quivered with anticipation of the name. His name, pray God, on the king’s lips.

Thomas.

In her mind, she heard the word.

The king straightened, glanced at her then at the man by her side.

“What say you then, Sir Geoffrey? Does the lady not speak fair? I vow she will make you a proper wife and a dutiful one as well.”

Alyse turned, until that moment unaware that Geoffrey Longford stood beside her. Chills coursed down her body as the king’s words echoed in her mind. The sensation of falling backward assailed her, as though she rushed away from the tall man at her side even as his figure loomed larger and larger in her sight.

Not Lord Braeton.

Her numbed brain repeated the phrase, trying to comprehend that instead he would be her husband. Geoffrey Longford.

God have mercy on me, for by the look of him, this man will not.

Fearful, she cringed as her gaze climbed higher, over his chest, over his chin, finally resting on the dark blue eyes turned toward her.

Geoffrey returned her appraisal, his gaze sweeping her figure as a smile crept over his face. “Your Majesty.” He spoke to the king but his attention remained fixed on Alyse. “When my father told me of the betrothal contract before I left his home, I resolved to play the dutiful son. Now, however, I find I do not wish to act that role after all.” His eyes held hers as he paused.

Dear God, does he mean to renounce me here before the entire court?

Alyse stared at the man beside her, willing herself to remain upright, despite the waves of ice and fire alternating through her body.

“Now I find I would rather play the ardent lover.”

An amused murmur ran through the Hall at his words. Sir Geoffrey grinned, his eyes sparkling with humor and something more. Despite the uneven light, Alyse saw an unfathomable promise in their dark depths. She took a shaky breath and looked away.

Author Bio:

Jenna Jaxon is a multi-published author of historical and contemporary romance.  Her historical romance, Only Scandal Will Do, the first in a series of five interconnecting novels, was released in July 2012. Her contemporary works include Hog Wild, Almost Perfect, and 7 Days of Seduction.  She is a PAN member of Romance Writers of America as well as a member of Chesapeake Romance Writers. Her medieval romance, Time Enough to Love, is being published this summer as a series of three novellas.  The first book, Betrothal, released on April 19th.

Jenna has been reading and writing historical romance since she was a teenager.  A romantic herself, she has always loved a dark side to the genre, a twist, suspense, a surprise.  She tries to incorporate all of these elements into her own stories. She lives in Virginia with her family and a small menagerie of pets.  When not reading or writing, she indulges her passion for the theatre, working with local theatres as a director.  She often feels she is directing her characters on their own private stage.

She has equated her writing to an addiction to chocolate because once she starts she just can’t stop.

Buy Links:

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Betrothal-Time-Enough-Love-ebook/dp/B00CF6UZFW/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1366769710&sr=1-2&keywords=betrothal

Smashwords:  https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/307838

 

 

 

 

 

Planting Seeds of Greatness

Posted on by
JustRomance.me Bloghops

Welcome to the Just Romance Me Earth Day Blog Hop!

I’m still swimming in joy from the events of this week. My first novel, Queen of Jastain released Monday and I’ve been dancing ever since. If you like Epic Fantasy I hope you’ll pick it up on AMAZON.

Avant's Sword CharmCrochet HatI’m giving away two prizes today — A crocheted hat and a sword charm necklace. The necklace is honor of my recently published story and is a miniture replica of Avant’s sword. The crocheted hat…well that’s something different, right?

When I think about the Earth, I wonder what in the world little ole me can do to help.

What do you do? What can you give?

Many years ago at a Zig Ziglar motivational seminar, a group of us were asked to write our own obituaries to be read in front of the whole conference. The object of the exercise was to get us thinking about the mark our lives would make and how we wanted to change the world around us.

I remember sitting there with a blank page not really knowing what to write. Everyone at the table around me was scribbling something and I was just sitting there. Staring. My palms began to sweat and my heart began to pound. My throat constricted and my eyes enviously flitted from one person to the next. All my peers, my friends, would have something to say, and I would look like an utter dork. Anger built in my chest that these “motivational” people would put me in such an embarrassing situation. I even considered walking out. That’s how stressed I was.

Then one of the leaders came and sat by me. She smiled and said, “You have to let you imagination go. Don’t think of limitations. What would you do if anything were possible?”

Let my imagination go? Now that was something I could do and I wrote the most outlandish, unattainable obituary I could think of. Donald Trump would be envious. Even Oprah couldn’t compare. It flowed and was well phrased, because even back then, when I didn’t know what my gift was, it was still working in me.

In my obituary, Fictional Me established dozens of charities which had completely abolished world hunger and illiteracy.

Our small group leader, a lady by the name of Lauren Clark, gathered our pages and read them aloud. When she came to mine, she stopped and gasped, “Kary. This is amazing! This is amazing.”

She read the obituary with a genuine reverence and everyone turned to look at me. I was thinking, oh great, I’ve done it now. But they had wonder in their eyes. People I’d known for years congratulated me on the obituary and Oohed and Ahhed over how amazing it was.

I left the seminar that day wondering what in the heck had happened. Those people had actually believed I could accomplish something so outrageous. Lauren Clark, a woman I respected and admired like few others, thought I could do what I wrote. She came up to me years later and told me she remembered that obituary and it still inspired her.

To this day I’m amazed that she could have so much confidence in me and I’m inspired by her belief, because she made me realize that dreams without limitations are powerful and possible. Maybe I won’t accomplish all the things in that obituary. Maybe I will, but if I don’t, it won’t be because it isn’t possible. Anything is possible if you believe.

Incidentally, Lauren’s own obituary was about being a missionary that traveled the world helping those lost and in need. Today, you can find pictures of her travels and the work she’s doing one her website: Lauren Clark Ministries

For a chance to win leave a comment and tell me — What are your dreams without limitations? If you had to write your own obituary today what would you want it to say?

Comment by 11:59:59 PM Eastern time on April 22, 2013 for your chance to win. One (1) winner will be selected randomly using a Random.org. Winner will be contacted by the blog owner bywithin 10 days of contest end. Only one entry per ISP address. The contest is open to US and Canadian residents only. Not valid for overseas. No purchase necessary to enter. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. Void where prohibited..

Tax Day Relief and My Brand New Release

Posted on by

Today is Tax Day. But take off your frowny face and put on a BIG Smile!

There’s a reason to CELEBRATE!!! It’s the release of my debut novel!

Release Day Blitz Banner Complete

Queen of Jastain Book One in The Reign of Light Series

The Epic Fantasy Romance is available now on AMAZON!

Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/Queen-of-Jastain-ebook/dp/B00CC3HKTC/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1366021073&sr=1-1

The Light brought her to him, but does he have the faith to make her his queen?

For twenty years, Avant plotted revenge against the dark king, but when a mysterious woman suddenly appears, everything changes. Although his prophetic Gift reveals she’s the Seed of Light chosen to restore the Crown, his overwhelming attraction to the women threatens his long-held plan for revenge and two decades of fidelity.

Abby Randall is inexplicably transported from Dallas to the medieval land of Jastain. There she meets Avant, who claims she’s the foretold champion of his people. While the hot guy has her hormones pumping, his crazy talk of defeating an evil king leaves questions to his sanity. Through his supernatural Gift, Avant transplants his memories into her, but neither are prepared for how their hearts intertwine.

Together they embark on their quest, but when Abby and Avant come face to face with destiny, will they sacrifice what matters most to provide a happily-ever-after for the people of Jastain?

We are hopping, skipping, and jumping all over the place. At every turn there are goodies and prizes.

Avant's Sword CharmCharm Bracelet

tax_day_blog_hop

Today for the Tax Day Blog Hop I’m giving away a Sword Charm Necklace. Leave a comment on this blog for a chance to winand scroll below to follow along this hop.

Release Day Blitz BadgeFor my Book Birthday, I’m giving away a Gift Card and a Charm Bracelet. Head to any of the following places and leave a comment for your chance to win.

I am also at the following blogs celebrating:

You can meet the characters from Queen of Jastain with Jennifer today HERE.

And I’m doing Author Interviews HERE with the lovely Maer Wilson and HERE with the talented Louann Carroll.

Thank you for celebrating with me. I hope Uncle Sam wasn’t too hard on you. Click any of the following links for the Tax Day Relief Hop.

Meet the Characters Monday

Posted on by

 For the next few weeks I’ll be introducing you to the characters of in my new Reign of Light Series.

Queen of Jastain, Book One releases April 15, 2013!

 Seppitent

Name: Seppitent

Role: Villain

How does another character describe him/her:

Avant, the hero, is quoted as saying, “It was Seppitent, the most dangerous creature in our lands. Its voice is a slow poison to the mind that will eventually drive you mad and destroy you from within. Tell me exactly, what did it say to you?”

Abby, the heroine, describes him like this: The serpent-like man was five feet tall and upright on two legs. An air of elegance, refinement even, emanated from the beautiful beast like nothing she’d ever seen or known. Its smooth skin shimmered in bold colors of rosy gold, silvery turquoise and copper orange, sparkling and giving the appearance of fine clothing.

Occupation: Disturber of the Peace, Destroyer

Distinguishing characteristics: A Serpent-man

Personality: Cunning, Beguiling, Dangerous

Favorite Line of dialogue: “As long as the hearts of men choose to listen, I’m welcome. I will eventually rule in Jastain as I do in other worlds.”

Release Day Blitz Banner Complete

 Queen of Jastain Blurb:

For twenty years, Avant plotted revenge against the dark king, but when a mysterious woman suddenly appears, everything changes. Although his prophetic Gift reveals she’s the Seed of Light chosen to restore the Crown, his overwhelming attraction to the women threatens his long-held plan for revenge and two decades of fidelity.

Abby Randall is inexplicably transported from Dallas to the medieval land of Jastain. There she meets Avant, who claims she’s the foretold champion of his people. While the hot guy has her hormones pumping, his crazy talk of defeating an evil king leaves questions to his sanity. Through his supernatural Gift, Avant transplants his memories into her, but neither are prepared for how their hearts intertwine.

Together they embark on their quest, but when Abby and Avant come face to face with destiny, will they sacrifice what matters most to provide a happily-ever-after for the people of Jastain?