Posts Tagged ‘western’

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Embark on a harrowing trek across the rugged American frontier in 1850.

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A Grave Every Mile

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Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail Book 1

by David Fitz-Gerald

Genre: Historical Western Adventure Fiction

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Embark on a harrowing trek across the rugged American frontier in 1850. Your wagon awaits, and the untamed wilderness calls. This epic western adventure will test the mettle of even the bravest souls.

Dorcas Moon and her family set forth in search of opportunity and a brighter future. Yet, what awaits them is a relentless gauntlet of life-threatening challenges: miserable weather, ravenous insects, scorching sunburns, and unforgiving terrain. It’s not merely a battle for survival but a test of their unity and sanity.

Amidst the chaos, Dorcas faces ceaseless trials: her husband’s unending bickering, her daughter’s descent into madness, and the ever-present danger of lethal rattlesnakes, intensifying the peril with each step. The specter of death looms large, with diseases spreading and the eerie howls of rabid wolves piercing the night. Will the haunting image of wolves desecrating a grave push Dorcas over the edge?

With each mile, the migration poses a haunting question: Who will endure the relentless quest to cross the continent, and who will leave their bones to rest beside the trail? The pathway is bordered by graves, a chilling reminder of the steep cost of dreams.

A Grave Every Mile marks the commencement of an unforgettable saga. Start reading Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail now to immerse yourself in an expedition where every decision carries the weight of life, death, and the pursuit of a brighter future along the Oregon Trail.

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Lighten the Load

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Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail Book 2

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After a devastating tragedy, Dorcas Moon faces brutal choices in the unforgiving wilderness.

An unsolved hometown murder casts a foreboding shadow over the journey. Mounting responsibilities weigh heavy on Dorcas’ shoulders while navigating the trail along the Platte River. Family, friends, and neighbors can’t seem to get along without her help.

The gruesome trail exacts a heavy toll. A sweeping grass fire blazes across the prairie. A doomed wagon careens down a treacherous hill. A fellow traveler is gored to death while hunting buffalo. Each disaster pushes the pioneers to the brink. Amidst the chaos, Dorcas grapples with the realization that she must dump her precious cook stove and her husband’s massive safe. The oxen can no longer haul the heavy weight of unnecessary cargo.

When her daughter mysteriously disappears while the wagons are at Fort Laramie, Dorcas despairs. She is desperate to help her daughter when the troubled youth is found in the arms of a Brulé man in Spotted Tail’s village.

Secure your copy of Lighten the Load and delve into an unforgettable saga of empowerment, sacrifice, and the haunting echoes of the American frontier. Rejoin Dorcas Moon on the adventure of a lifetime as she confronts the challenges that shape her destiny.

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Meet the Hero from Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail

Dorcas Moon is a one-of-a-kind protagonist.

In April of 1850 she is 34 years old. Her husband, Larkin Moon, is an aspiring banker who recently left his job as the manager of an inn. They are the parents of four children and together they journey from Independence, Missouri toward a new future in Oregon.

She has many strengths but plenty of faults as well. Hopefully, that makes her relatable. In many ways, she belongs in 1850. In other ways, she’s ahead of her time. Perhaps that makes her interesting. She’s always loved to cook but hates to sew. As a young woman, her mother couldn’t keep her indoors. The westward journey reawakens the tomboy in Dorcas. Sometimes, she pokes her nose into other people’s business and now and then she can’t help listening in on private conversations.

After working with her as a young woman in my novel, WAKING UP LOST, part of the Adirondack Spirit Series, I couldn’t get her out of my head. She wasn’t the hero of that book, but she often stole the scenes in which she appeared. She was such a unique character, I just had to spend more time with her. Now that she’s been the center of attention for five books, and the series built around her is complete, I’m still not tired of this indomitable character. Maybe someday I’ll return to Dorcas Moon. We shall see.

Who doesn’t try to picture the character they’re reading about? As the author, I’ve described Dorcas as a tall woman, taller than most men. She’s self-conscious about that and has a history of arguing that she is not six feet tall. She’s a full eight of an inch shy of that. She has frizzy blond hair that is not easily contained. I have a collage featuring pictures of women that could be Dorcas Moon. It includes Lady Liberty from United States coins and the blond woman who looks like she’s wearing a toga floating like an angel above the prairie in artist John Gast’s 1872 painting titled American Progress.

What famous people, past or present do you picture when reading Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail? I welcome your email at dave@itsoag.com – and if you’d like to know what famous woman’s picture I have pasted on my collage, I’ll tell you in my reply.

Where did the name Dorcas come from? It’s very rare these days. When writing historical fiction, I love to find names that were used during a particular time period that are far less common today. I reached way back into my own family tree to find this memorable name and when business took me to Newark, New Jersey, I visited her grave.

I’ve been asked about writing in the first person from a woman’s perspective. I enjoy the challenge of inventing characters unlike myself and trying to bring them to life. It helps having the perspective of my editor, Lindsay, who has collaborated with me on all of my fiction. I love putting myself in the shoes of my characters and trying to imagine what they’d do or say. That could be the best part of being a novelist.

Now that I’m finished writing Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail, I wonder whether the protagonist is the real hero of the series. The case could be made that the true star is the trail itself. Maybe it is the iconic prairie schooner that captures readers’ imaginations. Just the sight of a wagon sets off something in me. It’s as if I’m connected to that symbol. Maybe it is a flicker from a past life. Who knows for certain?

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Stay With the Wagons

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Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail Book 3

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Venture deep into the uncharted wilderness and crest the continental divide.

Stay with the Wagons is the enthralling third chapter in the Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail series. Dorcas Moon has discarded her mourning dress and yearns for freedom and independence amidst the vast frontier. But a perilous world and a commanding wagon master keep her tethered. Ultimately, it’s a brutal bout of fever and ague that confine her to camp.

Relentless disasters and beguiling challenges unfold in this installment. A young man is crushed beneath a wagon wheel. Dorcas’ son breaks an arm, a grizzly bear attacks the wagon train, and the looming threat of attacking outlaws whips the emigrants into a worried frenzy. How many must perish before they reach the end of the trail?

As chaos reigns, her troubled daughter, Rose, disappears once again, leading Dorcas on a perilous quest. Tracking Rose to a sacred site, they encounter a blind seer and a legendary leader, Chief Washakie. Rose’s enchantment with Native American adornments sparks Dorcas’ concern about an unexpected suitor and raises worries about Rose’s age.

Stay with the Wagons is bursting with action, adventure, and survival. It is a story of resilience and empowerment on the Oregon Trail.

Claim your copy now and re-immerse yourself in a tale of high-stakes survival, unexpected alliances, and the indomitable spirit of Dorcas Moon.

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Snarling Wolf

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Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail Book 4

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Dive back into the gripping, frontier chaos. Snarling Wolf is the fourth adventurous installment in the Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail series.

The famed Snake River marks the point the wagon master claims that all the greenhorns turn loco. After twelve hundred grueling miles and four relentless months on the trail, the expedition teeters on the brink. Frayed nerves, exhausted patience, and the specter of doom cast a dark cloud over the travelers.

At every turn, new dangers emerge. A young man who is like a brother to Dorcas Moon is ravaged in a mountain lion attack. A heat wave grips the dusty, barren plains and spreads sickness. The wolves that lurk in the shadows edge closer. Even the rattlesnakes seem emboldened.

Dorcas’ daughter, Rose’s descent into madness can no longer be ignored. What began as an eerie preoccupation with death takes a shocking turn when Rose reveals her truths. Dorcas is thrust into a realm of disbelief, and her worst fears about Rose’s mysterious suitor become a stark reality.

As weary emigrants yearn for respite, tales of murderous outlaws spread like wildfire across the prairie. Passing strangers share the latest terrifying news. It’s only a matter of when, not if, the notorious highwaymen will strike. Which bend of the mighty snake shelters the feared outlaws?

Grab your copy of Snarling Wolf now and unveil the next chapter in Dorcas Moon’s relentless saga. Sink your teeth into this tale of survival, madness, and the unyielding spirit of those who brave the treacherous migration.

Amazon * Bookbub * Goodreads

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Rolling Home

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Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail Book 5

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Climb aboard! Don’t miss the heart-pounding climax of the Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail series. Rolling Home is the final installment.

In the heart of the rolling village, dissent brews as the stubbornest naysayer refuses to continue the journey. With an ominous early snowfall and memories of the ill-fated Donner Party haunting the pioneers, Dorcas Moon faces a new wave of challenges. Just when she believes things can’t get worse, a disastrous river crossing claims their wagon and submerges their belongings.

As the rolling village approaches the final leg of the journey, the looming threat of outlaws intensifies. The notorious bandit known as The Viper and his ruthless brothers are determined to rob the greenhorns, sell their stock, and kill every last one of them. The pioneers had heard tales of their brutality, but now, with Dorcas’ daughter kidnapped and Dorcas captured, everyone is in danger.

What will become of Dorcas Moon, her family, and their friends? Will anyone survive the perilous journey?

Rejoin the expedition and witness the thrilling end to a gripping saga.

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Amazon * Bookbub * Goodreads

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David Fitz-Gerald writes westerns and historical fiction. He is the author of twelve books, including the brand-new series, Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail set in 1850. Dave is a multiple Laramie Award, first place, best in category winner; a Blue Ribbon Chanticleerian; a member of Western Writers of America; and a member of the Historical Novel Society.

Alpine landscapes and flashy horses always catch Dave’s eye and turn his head. He is also an Adirondack 46-er, which means that he has hiked to the summit of the range’s highest peaks. As a mountaineer, he’s happiest at an elevation of over four thousand feet above sea level.

Dave is a lifelong fan of western fiction, landscapes, movies, and music. It should be no surprise that Dave delights in placing memorable characters on treacherous trails, mountain tops, and on the backs of wild horses.

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Website * Facebook * X * Instagram * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads

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Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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Join Us for This Tour from Mar 26 to Apr 22, 2024

​Book Details:

Book TitleFalling for a Bossy Cowboy (Vargas Ranch Book 3) by Karen Baney
Category:  Adult Fiction 18+, 204 pages
GenreContemporary Christian Western Romance
Publisher:  Desert Life Media
Release date:  Mar 26, 2024
Content Rating PG + M. My book deals with a main character overcoming his sexually immoral past. He is in active recovery and God’s grace and strength shine through his story line. Written tastefully with character showing true remorse for his past actions. There are NO cursing or graphic descriptions of any kind.

Book Description:

She’s famous and nearing the end of her career. He’s blunt, bossy, and downright annoying. Will these two find the perfect balance between truth and love?

Sports fanatic Derin Vargas steps down from his position as foreman of Vargas Ranch to run the family’s new sports complex. Uncomfortable in his new role, he compensates by being bossy. When a famous pro-tennis player stays at the resort to rehab after surgery, Derin points out her shortcomings no one else will.

Pro-tennis player Madison Moore heads to a remote sports complex on Vargas Guest Ranch & Resort to finish rehabbing after shoulder surgery. As she fears the death of her pro career, the bossy cowboy manager gets under her skin.

​Will Derin soften his rough edges to win over the beautiful tennis player? Will Madison listen to the hard truth about her future while opening her heart to love?

Buy the Book:
Amazon ~ B&N 
Apple ~ Google ~ Kobo
Book2Read ~ BookBub
​add to goodreads
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 Interview with Author Karen Baney

  1. How long have you been writing? When did you start?

I first started writing Christian historical romances back in 2010. In 2011, I finished my first series and dabbled in contemporary Christian romance with one book, recently re-released as The Heart I Rescue. I released a few books between 2011 – 2016, before taking a break for health reasons. Then in the fall of 2021, I began writing in earnest again, releasing two more historical series, before focusing on contemporary and cowboy romances in 2023 and 2024. I love writing and hope to continue releasing multiple novels per year.

  1. What comes first for you, the plot or the characters?

Characters. When I first mapped out the Vargas Ranch Series, I started with the five brothers: Dalton, Dylan, Derin, Devon, and Drake. After figuring out their personalities, motives, and the setting, I mapped out the plot highlights for the entire series. Of course, as I write a novel, the plot can shift. Sometimes the characters surprise me, like Derin did in Falling for a Bossy Cowboy.

  1. What part of Falling for a Bossy Cowboy was the hardest to write?

The last few chapters took me a bit to write. I reached a certain point in the story and knew it needed to be wrapped up, but felt like I had more to tell. In the end, I shuffled a few scenes around so I could head towards the final dramatic tension and then the happily-ever-after.

  1. Did anything surprise you when you were writing Falling for a Bossy Cowboy?

Yes! Derin himself surprised me. I knew I wanted to take this over-confident man and thrust him into a situation that caused him to feel insecure. But I never expected his character arc to take the shape that it did. And the huge family secret that gets revealed in this book—never saw that coming. It just flowed from my heart and is one of my favorite scenes in the entire book because it explains why Derin is the way he is.

  1. What can a reader expect from your books?

I love writing about flawed characters who struggle with life and their faith (or come to faith). Sometimes they have some ugly or painful things to overcome. In the end, they learn to grow in their faith. They change and so do their lives.

  1. Are you planning any more books in the Vargas Ranch series?

At least two more books are planned. Falling for a Smart Cowboy is the fourth son’s story. Devon is the one son that longs to get off the ranch and teach. He’s torn between his dreams and contributing to the family ranch and resort. When a life-altering family secret is revealed, it changes the course of his life.

Falling for a Grumpy Cowboy follows Drake Vargas after he learns of the life-altering family secret. Nothing about his life will ever be the same and he lets it steal his joy. Until the sunshine Candi Kane shows up at Christmas time…

I am also toying with two or three more stories to follow the cousins and some cowboys I’ve mentioned throughout the series. Not sure if I’ll write a spin-off series or not.

  1. Is there anything I haven’t asked that you would like to share with my followers?

Thanks so much for hosting my Vargas Ranch Series with the release of book 3, Falling for a Bossy Cowboy. Readers and audiobook listeners can find me on my website: www.karenbaney.com or on Facebook, Instagram, X, BookBub, and GoodReads.

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Welcome to my stop on the virtual book tour for Moccasin Trace organized by Goddess Fish Promotions.

Author Hawk MacKinney will be awarding a $20 Amazon or B&N Gift Card to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Don’t forget to enter!

And you can click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Moccasin Trace

by Hawk MacKinney

 

Genre: Historical Fiction

Synopsis

It is July of 1859, a month of sweltering dog days and feverish emotional bombast. Life is good for widower Rundell Ingram and his hazel-eyed, roan-haired son, Hamilton. Between the two of them, they take care of Moccasin Hollow, their rustic dogtrot ancestral home, a sprawling non-slave plantation in the rolling farming country outside Queensborough Towne in east Georgia. Adjoining Ingram lands is Wisteria Bend, the vast slave-holding plantation of Andrew and Corinthia Greer, their daughter Sarah and son Benjamin.

Both families share generations of long-accepted traditions, and childhood playmates are no longer children. Against this rustic idyll of hard work and gracious living comes inflexible discord and divided loyalties that mutilate ties of blood and bond, tearing at their lives as smoke and battle no longer so faraway crashes and maims ever closer. Ahead of the on-coming ranks of Blue, foragers and bumlers burn, loot, scavenge and kill. Hamilton faces agonizing sacrifices with dreadful consequences. With little else than his wits, he tries anything to protect Sarah, their unborn child, his sickly father, and Sarah’s family.

Enjoy this peek inside:

Back at his post behind the oaks, it wasn’t long before the Trace crowded up with a hodgepodge mishmash of wagons and carts headed as far from Augusta as they could get. As he silently watched, it seemed the whole of the Parish was on the move. His thoughts jarred by the hurried plunge of a rider coming toward him through the canebrake. He dropped to one knee, his rifle to the ready, just as Nat and one of Ben’s mules busted into the clearing.

Nat hauled up, slid off the mule, “Mister Ben said to git the word to you — Yankie patrols spotted this side of Sandersville. They burnin’ ever’thing, barns, houses, killin’ what they don’t take. Tearin’ Jericho out’a ever’thing they git their hands to.”

Hamilton grabbed his mare’s reins, pulled into the saddle, “Get back to the Bends. Tell Ben you found me, and Nat — keep a sharp eye out. Advance lookouts could be anywhere.”

Hamilton, off in a mad tear, nudged the mare faster. Wind whistled in his ears, low hanging limbs slashed his sweaty face, horses’ hooves flinging clods high behind him. Yankies moving that fast wouldn’t ask questions; they’d burn, move on, Sarah and their child be refugees like the pitiful wagons he’d seen. He reined up next to the porch, his horse skidding as he swung out of the saddle.

Bessie was on the front porch, “See you comin’ fast.” Pistol in her hand, she threw quick glance out across the fields. “Nat find you?”

“Yeh…he’s on his way to let Ben know…they might be making a wide sweep into Augusta from this side.”

“Missy’s cramps reg’lar, an’ you be the only help. Yankie or no Yankie, Missy an’ that chil’ in her belly need both of us.”

“If it’s their main bunch they’ll have bummers way ahead of their army.”

“Lordy mercy — nobody gonna stop that ceptin’ the Lord.” Bessie shoved her pistol deep in her pocket. “Don’t matter how many trompin’ ’bout, ain’t nobody gittin’ twixt me’n Missy an’ her chil’. When the Lord say that baby come, fightin’ gonna wait, but Jehovah sure gonna have a handful.”

“I’ll keep watch out by the barns.”

Bessie started inside and stopped, “Maybe watchin’ from the barn ain’t the best next thing. Mistress Corinth’a be upset we don’t let her know her grandchil’ comin’ so she can come help. When she do, young Benjamin alone in that big house settin’ there all big an’ white. You knows what I means — Yankies cain’t miss it. Bein’ hot-headed he won’t budge, an’ now ain’t the time for bein’ spiteful ’bout which soldiers got the most bullets — git shot dead. You’n me both know how that cut down Mistress Corinth’a.”

“Might be best to get Mother Greer here while we can,” said Hamilton fighting his own fear.

“If Mistress Corinth’a come she best while it daylight. Missy’s cramps likely won’t be reg’lar for a spell. ‘Fore things git busy, time is now to hotfoot over there, an’ git back here quick-like.”

“Tell Papa where I’m headed.”

“Don’t need tellin’ Mister Rundell, he been up ‘fore daybreak, his gun primed and ready. We manage…you make double-sure your butt git back here in one piece.” Shook her head, “Sweet Lord…what a mixed-up world you bringin’ this chil’ into.”

Hamilton was into the saddle. Gave the mare her head, didn’t bother with gates, jumped the fences, pushed her to a full-out gallop. He stayed clear of the Trace, cleared hedgerows and fences, splashed through slough bogs. Before he realized it, he burst through a squatter’s camp, scattering pots, pans, campfires, ramshackle shelters, and stampeded several horses. Startled poachers reached for rifles. He spurred the mare and disappeared into the brush, leaving them with nothing to aim at. Racing faster, he finally caught glimpses of the white unperturbed columns of the Bends. As he came out onto the wide buggy approach to the house, he glanced behind, making sure no one was on his tail.

About Author Hawk MacKinney:

In addition to professional articles and texts on chordate neuroembryology, Hawk MacKinney has authored several works of fiction—historical love stories, science fiction and mystery-thrillers. Moccasin Trace, a historical novel nominated for the prestigious Michael Shaara Award for Excellence in Civil War Fiction and the Writers Notes Book Award, details the family bloodlines of his protagonist in the Moccasin Hollow Mystery Series: Hidden Chamber of Death, Westobou Gold, Dead Gold, Curse of the Ancients, and Blood of the Dragonfly.

Hawk’s science fiction novels include The Bleikovat Event, Vol I in The Cairns of Sainctuarie Science Fiction Series, followed by Vol II, The Missing Planets, and Vol III, Inanna Phantom.

Hawk MacKinney served in the US Navy for over 20 years. While serving as a Navy Commander, he also had a career as a full-time faculty member at several major state medical facilities. He earned two postgraduate degrees with studies in languages and history. He has taught postgraduate courses in both the United States and Jerusalem, Israel. He now makes his home in Augusta, Georgia, where he writes full-time.

Author Links: Goodreads / Website

Buy Links: Amazon / B&N

 

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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I am thrilled to be hosting a review spot on the WEST OF SUNDOWN Vol. 2 by Tim Seeley & Aaron Campbell, Jim Terry Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours.

Check out my review and make sure to enter the giveaway!

 

WEST OF SUNDOWN Vol. 2: Youthful Blasphemy

Authors: Tim Seeley & Aaron Campbell, Jim Terry (Illustrations)

 

 

Pub. Date: July 25, 2023

Publisher: Vault Comics

Formats: Paperback, eBook

Pages: 144

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Find it: Goodreadshttps://books2read.com/WEST-OF-SUNDOWN-Vol-2

 

From Dusk Till Dawn and American Vampire meet The League of
Extraordinary Gentlemen 
in this terrifying tale of the Old West,
survival, blood, and monsters.

La Sangre es la Vida

The New Mexico town of Sangre De Moro has accepted its strange new residents:
beautiful vampire Constance Der Abend, her thrall, Frankenstein’s monster, and
the would-be mad scientist, Griffin. But a new threat has come for the
evil-saturated soil of the mesa: Dr. Moreau and his strange companions.

West of Sundown – where Hammer Horror and literary monsters
stake their claim in old New Mexico.

A Western tale of survival starring a cast of literary horrors from the
diabolical minds of Tim Seeley (Hack/Slash, Vampire: The Masquerade, Money
Shot
), Aaron Campbell (Hellblazer, Infidel), and Jim Terry (Vampirella,
Come Home, Indio
)!

For fans of WestworldRed Dead RedemptionAmerican
Vampire
The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, Hammer
Horror
 films, Universal monsters, and Preacher!

Collects the entire second arc, issues #6-#10, of the smash-hit series!

“If you like your horse operas bloody, if you thought The
Searchers
 was fine, except for all the missing vampires and werewolves
and monsters, then … Tim Seeley, Aaron Campbell, and Jim Terry have a book here
for you. Come walk with them through the Old West, and don’t trust them when
they tell you it’s all going to be fine. It’s not. And we wouldn’t have it any
other way.” —Stephen Graham Jones (New York Times bestselling
author of The Only Good IndiansMy Heart is a
Chainsaw 
and Don’t Fear the Reaper)

“Vigorous, bloody pulp fiction boned with fierce intelligence and blooded
with delicate observation. This just might be the start of the best monster
universe since Universal’s.” — Daniel Kraus (New York
Times
 bestselling author of The Shape of Water, Trollhunters,
and The Autumnal)

“Western gets weird in this gore-strewn, rollicking adventure set in the 1870s
…with a wink toward gothic Victorian horror.” – Publishers Weekly (Starred
Review)

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Grab WEST OF SUNDOWN, VOL.
1 now!

 

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MY REVIEW

Just, Whoa! I’m not sure what wowed me more. The bad guys or the really bad guys. The plot and the character’s background bits. The insane, gory action scenes. Or the visceral and almost too colorful graphics. Some of those violent fights…… ouch.

I love a good western. And I’m definitely in for the strange western. I fell down that rabbit hole, or should I say prairie dog hole, and didn’t find my way back out until the final word.

I have to hand it to the authors and illustrator. They had me liking characters that I probably shouldn’t, tugged at my heart a little, and gave me those monsters, human and other, that I can’t ever get enough of. And now I’m getting ready to read more and can’t wait to be wowed by these fine authors again.

5 STARS

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Check out this peek inside:

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About Tim Seeley:

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TIM
SEELEY
 is one
of those “slash” people…a writer-slash-artist. He has drawn a number of
different comic book series including G.I JOE, HALLOWEEN,
WILDCATS 
and ANT-MAN & WASP. His writing work
include NIGHTWING, MONEY SHOT , INJUSTICE v. MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE ,the
critically acclaimed REVIVAL, and the NY TIMES bestselling HACK/SLASH. He
resides in Chicago, Illinois with his wife, daughter and 80s action figure
collection.        Hometown:
Chicago, IL

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

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About Aaron Campbell:

Aaron Campbell has been working as a comics artist for a
decade, and is now the co-writer of Vault Comics horror title, West
of Sundown
.  During his time in comics, he’s illustrated the
adventures of some of the world’s most iconic characters, including Hellblazer,
Batman, Harley Quinn, The Shadow, Green Hornet, Sherlock Holmes, James Bond,
and Infidel, working with such revered writers as Garth Ennis, Matt Wagner,
James Robinson, and Andy Diggle.
Hometown:  Albuquerque, NM

Website | Instagram | Goodreads

 

 

 

About Jim Terry:

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JIM
TERRY 
is a
Native American comic book artist who’s memoir Come Home, Indio was a finalist for the LA Times Book Prize and the
Ignatz, as well as the artist on such titles as THE CROW, HACK/SLASH,
HEAVY METAL 
and more. He is currently working on WEST OF
SUNDOWN
 from Vault Comics. He lives in Chicago with his 4 cats.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

 

 

 

 

Giveaway contest ribbon promo label prize. Vector giveaway banner badge design template

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2 winners will receive a finished copy of WEST OF SUNDOWN Vol. 1 & WEST OF SUNDOWN
Vol. 2, US Only.

Ends August 15th, midnight EST.

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour Schedule:

Week One:

7/17/2023

Writer of Wrongs

Excerpt

7/18/2023

Sadie’s
Spotlight

Excerpt/IG Post

7/19/2023

Must Read Faster

Excerpt/IG Post

7/20/2023

Vamplit

Review/IG Post

7/21/2023

Two Chicks on Books

Excerpt/IG Post

7/22/2023

Fieldstone_lfl

IG Review/LFL Drop Pic

Week Two:

7/23/2023

#BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog

Excerpt/IG Post

7/24/2023

Ramblings of a Coffee Addicted Writer

Review/IG Post

7/25/2023

The Book Countess

Review/IG Post

7/26/2023

A Dream Within A Dream

Excerpt/IG Post

7/27/2023

@by_hckilgour

IG Review

7/28/2023

Country Mamas With Kids

Review/IG Post

7/29/2023

A Blue Box Full of Books

IG Review/LFL Drop Pic/TikTok Post

Week Three:

7/30/2023

OneMoreExclamation

Review/IG Post

7/31/2023

celiamcmahonreads

Review/IG Post

8/1/2023

@evergirl200

IG Review

8/2/2023

FUONLYKNEW

Review

8/3/2023

Lifestyle of Me

Review

8/4/2023

Locks, Hooks and Books

Review

8/5/2023

Kim’s Book Reviews and Writing Aha’s

Review/IG Post

Week Four:

8/6/2023

Brandi Danielle Davis

Review/IG Post

8/7/2023

@enthuse_reader

IG Review/TikTok Post

8/8/2023

Two Points of Interest

Review

8/9/2023

@jlreadstoperpetuity

IG Review/TikTok Post

8/10/2023

@bookish_aly_cat

IG Review

8/11/2023

Jaime_of_gryffindor

IG Review

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Welcome to my stop on the virtual book tour for Ella organized by Goddess Fish Promotions.

Author Fraser will be awarding a $20 Amazon or B&N Gift Card to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

You can click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Ella

by Nancy Fraser

Ella: Prairie Roses Collection - Book 12 by [Nancy Fraser]

Genre: Sweet/Inspirational Western Historical Romance

Synsopsis

To get away from her late husband’s questionable deeds, Ella Winslow takes her three children and heads west to the unsettled Washington Territory to claim land she believes she’s inherited from her father.

Tucker McAlister was fired from his position as deputy marshal for arresting the mayor’s brother-in-law for spousal abuse. His mentor has found him another job, first escorting the wagon train going west, and then as the new marshal in the growing town of Tacoma, Washington Territory.

The trail is long and hard, yet Ella is more than up to the task. Still, Tuck feels the need to watch over her and her children, whether she wants him to or not. It isn’t until they arrive in Washington that he realizes his protection will now need to extend even further than the wagon train itself.

Will Ella’s faith allow her to trust again and make a safe home for her family, while welcoming Tuck into her heart?

Enjoy this peek inside:

Over the course of the next five days, both she and Thomas took turns working with Connor to learn the most efficient way of harnessing the four large Percheron horses to the wagon. Then, right on schedule, they pulled the oversized, custom-made, wagon out into the yard behind the farmhouse.

Connor had attached the canvas cover at the last minute, the enclosure making the huge prairie-schooner all the more impressive. Her father had truly outdone himself with the vessel they’d christened Miller’s Folly.

“It’s time to finish loading everything so we can get on the road,” Ella announced, her words sending all three children scurrying toward their rooms in search of their belongings.

“I’ve loaded the food stores into the bottom bins so you won’t have to lift them down. You can just open the lid and scoop out what you need,” Connor reminded her. “Your sewing supplies are in the smaller bin right above your treadle machine.”

“You’ve anchored it to the side of the wagon?”

“As tight as I could. You’ll still need to be careful because it’s heavy. Make sure you check the ropes every day to see that the knot is taut.”

“I will. I promise.” The very last thing she wanted was to damage the one thing she’d need in order to earn money for her family once they’d reached their new home.

“I’ve stored the horses’ supplemental feed in the compartments father built along the outside of the wagon, and placed an extra set of tack in the compartment under the wagon bed next to the water barrels.”

“Are you sure you’re okay with my selling the horses once we’ve reached our destination? After all, they were left to you too.”

Connor slid his arm around her shoulders and pulled her to his side. “I got the farm as my part of our inheritance. You wanted the deed, the wagon, and the horses, so they’re yours. I’d bet you’ll get a pretty penny for them—and the wagon—once you no longer need them anymore.”

“I’d like to hang onto the wagon, if I can,” she admitted. “As a memento of sorts, I suppose.”

“Whatever you decide is up to you. Heaven knows there’s enough hardwood in that thing to heat a small hearth for months.”

She swatted at his arm. “I’ll not be burning it either, no matter what.”

By half-past eight, with everything loaded, and hugs given to their aunt, Jacob and Callie held out their arms for Connor to boost them into the back of the wagon before he closed and tied down the flaps. Thomas took his seat at the front, next to his mother.

“If it feels like the horses are getting away from you, pull them up as best as you can,” Connor instructed. “Are you sure I can’t ride in the wagon with you?”

“I need to know I can do this myself, without you there to grab the reins away from me.”

Connor’s deep chuckle was his first show of humor in days. “Fine, but I’ll be right behind you.”

“You really don’t have to follow us all the way to St. Joseph,” she reminded him. “It’s only a day’s ride. We’ll be there by nightfall.”

“I’m not doing this for you,” he clarified. “It’s for me. I’d worry myself to an early grave if I let you go off not knowing for sure you could handle the team.”

“Well then, mount up, because I’m pulling out.” Ella snapped the reins, and the horses surged forward. The wagon shuddered, then settled, the big wheels rolling smoothly over the dirt.

About Author Nancy Fraser:

Nancy Fraser is a best-selling and award-winning author who happily jumps across multiple romance genres with gleeful abandon.

She’s also the granddaughter of a Methodist minister known for his fire-and-brimstone approach to his faith. Nancy has brought some of his spirit into her Christian romances. And, her own off-beat sense of humor to her clean & wholesome books.

When not writing (which is almost never), Nancy dotes on her five wonderful grandchildren and looks forward to traveling and reading when time permits. Nancy lives in Atlantic Canada where she enjoys the relaxed pace and colorful people.

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The Cowboy’s Road Home

Cowboys of Whistle Rock Ranch Book 1

by Shirleen Davies

Genre: Clean Contemporary Western Romance

Second chances aren’t a sure thing.
Not when sparks fly between the perfect woman
and a devoted cowboy whose father
is determined to keep them apart.

It’s been eight years since Wyatt Bonner left Whistle Rock Ranch.

After two college degrees and loads of experience helping to run his uncle’s dude ranch, he’s back and ready to take his place beside his father. Sunrise to sunset, he’s all business, hardworking, and dedicated to the family’s horse breeding operation—until Daisy Raines bursts back into his life.

A successful businesswoman, Daisy’s never forgotten her first love. Learning Wyatt has returned to Brilliance, Wyoming, and the family ranch, she faces a hard truth. She still loves the handsome, sometimes cocky cowboy.

After eight years, she expects little, and is surprised when Wyatt makes it clear he wants another chance. The independent Daisy is all in until a significant obstacle blocks their growing relationship.

There’s no sure path to a second chance. Not when Wyatt’s father is dead set against a union including Daisy.

The Cowboy’s Road Home, book one in the Cowboys of Whistle Rock Ranch Contemporary Western Romance series, is a clean and wholesome standalone, full-length novel with an HEA and no cliffhanger.

Watch for other books in the Cowboys of Whistle Rock Ranch series!

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Goodreads * Amazon

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Shirleen Davies writes romance—historical and contemporary cowboy romance with a touch of suspense, and romantic suspense. She is the best-selling author of numerous series including Macklins of Whiskey Bend, Eternal Brethren, MacLarens of Fire Mountain historicals and contemporaries, the MacLarens of Boundary Mountain, Cowboys of Whistle Rock Ranch, and Redemption Mountain. Shirleen grew up in Southern California, attended Oregon State University, and has degrees from San Diego State University and the University of Maryland. Her passion is writing emotionally charged stories of flawed people who find redemption through love and acceptance. She lives with her husband in a beautiful town in northern Arizona.

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For a complete listing of all currently available and upcoming Whitcomb Springs stories, visit http://www.mkmcclintock.com/whitcomb-springs-series.

Grab a FREE copy of Whitcomb Springs

April 13th & 14th

“RETRIBUTION ROAD” BY CHRISTI CORBETT

Montana Territory, 1867

Graham Patterson, an accomplished veterinarian, is leaving Seattle and heading east to start a new life for himself. Opportunities abound for men who understand how to make the land work for them, rather than work the land. But after he overhears two scoundrels plotting to take advantage of a lonely spinster, his well-laid plans go awry.

Willow Bennet lives just outside the town of Whitcomb Springs with only her beloved dog to keep her company. It’s a predictable life, until late one night when she foils an attack and her dog is wounded as revenge.

Can she trust the mysterious stranger who insists he can help?

EXCERPT FROM “RETRIBUTION ROAD”

Chapter One
Friday, November 1, 1867

GRAHAM HID IN the shadows, his hand resting on his pistol while he considered the rising flames. Normally he’d take a wide path around a stranger’s camp, but the glowing coals promised warmth and the pot the two men had hanging over the fire smelled of beans. Eating nothing for three days made a man consider a lot of things.
Even worse, he was lost.
In Seattle, taking a wrong turn had meant simply backtracking or trying another street. Deep within the wooded and ankle-busting terrain of Montana Territory, it meant he could die.
His stomach growled again, and he took another swig of icy water from his canteen to quiet the rumbling. Graham’s numb fingers fumbled with the metal cap and a clang broke the silence.
The younger man leapt to his feet. “Pa, did you hear something?”
The older man rose and swung a Henry rifle into firing position. “Who’s out there?” he demanded, his voice raspy from years of hard liquor and harder living.
Graham sighed. Unless he wanted to start a fight with strangers, he’d best answer. “No need to get riled up. I’m just passing through.”
“You alone?” shouted the younger man, planting his legs wide while shucking off his coat.
“Yes,” Graham replied, his fingers lowering to test the knot securing his holster to his leg.
They exchanged whispers, then the older man called out, “You cold?”
“Yes.” Graham grimaced. Late fall out here was a lot colder than his brother’s letters had led him to believe. The frigid winds seemed to blow right through his clothes—a blanket-lined coat, flannel shirt, wool pants, long socks, and high boots—and settle deep in his bones. He’d been cold for the past month.
“Better come in then. Keep your hands where we can see them.”

“FORSAKEN TRAIL” BY MK MCCLINTOCK

Montana Territory, 1865

Cooper McCord enjoyed a solitary life. When he first showed Daniel and Evelyn Whitcomb the beautiful mountain valley in Montana, he didn’t expect to stay. After the War Between the States began, Cooper remained close and helped build the town, not realizing he was building a home for himself. When an unexpected arrival to Whitcomb Springs makes him question his reclusive life, will Cooper retreat to his wilderness or allow himself to take a chance and risk happiness?

EXCERPT FROM “FORSAKEN TRAIL”
Whitcomb Springs, Montana Territory
May 30, 1865

SHE NEVER imagined dying at the hands—or paws—of a bear. Either she’d end up dead like the poor driver she hired in Bozeman or find a way to escape unscathed. Considering the layers of skirts and petticoats she wore, Abigail wasn’t going to bet on her ability to outrun the great animal.
She remained still in the low branches of a tree. Unable to climb higher unless she removed her skirts, Abigail controlled her breathing so as not to alert the animal. The past few years of her life had been in pursuit of an education. Her work in the war relief had kept her busy for four long years, but she found time in the evening hours to consume knowledge. The more she learned, the more she wanted to know.
Abigail read most of the leather-bound volumes of work in her family’s library, from philosophy to geography to history, and everything in between. Unfortunately, not a single text had explained what to do when confronted by five hundred pounds of bear. Magnificent though the animal was, Abigail didn’t want to become dinner.
Poor Mr. Tuttle had fallen from the wagon and broken his neck when the horses spooked and ran off. She’d been unable to drag him away, let alone pull him up a tree. Even now, she watched as the massive brown bear sniffed around the body. She dispelled a deep breath when she realized it wasn’t going to eat Mr. Tuttle. It looked around instead, smelling the air.
Abigail swore it stared directly at her. Too late, she recalled that bears climb trees. Her first thought had been to escape, and unable to outrun the creature, she went up. She calculated if the bear stood on its back legs, it could reach the low-hanging branches where she hid and knock her from the tree with one swipe. She grabbed the nearest branch above her head and pulled herself up. Abigail ignored the loud rip in her skirt and the sudden gush of cool air that hit her legs and climbed higher. Two more branches put her out of swiping distance.
The grizzly sauntered toward her and stood, staring and studying. She imagined it thinking of all the ways it could rip her apart and savor her like a delicious meal. The stays on her corset would be no match for those great claws, and the teeth . . . Abigail shuddered and reminded herself that most living creatures weren’t vicious by nature.
Abigail knew the animal was aware of her location. It landed back on all fours and approached the base of the tree. The heavy breathing and snorting filled the silence.

 

“TRACKING AMY” BY SAMANTHA ST. CLAIRE

Riley Buchanan knew he’d been in the mining camps too long when he mistook the pretty Amy Sutton for a boy. Why she kept her gender disguised puzzled Riley. Curiosity put him on her trail. Destiny placed him in her life. Would Riley become the missing piece to the puzzle that was Amy?

EXCERPT FROM “TRACKING AMY”

WITH A SATISFYING “clunk,” the can flew up from the fence rail. Amy lowered the carbine and turned to smile at her daughter. “I think we may yet have some venison on the table.”
Rose grinned at her mother and asked, “Do you want me to set them up again?”
“No, I think that’s enough practice. Tomorrow, I’ll head back and see if I can find the deer I wounded. I’ll try find him before some cat or bear tracks him down.”
“Can I come this time?”
Amy looked down into her daughter’s imploring eyes. “Rose, you know the livestock need someone to care for them.”
Rose’s face fell into a sullen pout. “I’m a good shot, too.”
With a finger, Amy lifted her daughter’s chin and waited for Rose to meet her gaze. “I know you are, even better than me. But until we can hire another hand to help us, we are all we have—you and me. Besides, when you are older, I’ll send you out hunting. Agreed?”
Her countenance lifting, Rose nodded. “Agreed.”

Author Bios

 

MK McClintock is an award-winning author devoted to giving her readers books laced with adventure, romance, and a touch of mystery. Her novels and short stories take you from the rugged mountains of Montana to the Victorian British Isles, all with good helpings of daring exploits and endearing love stories. She enjoys a peaceful life in the Rocky Mountains where she is writing her next book.

If you’d like to know when MK’s next book will be out, please visit her website at www.mkmcclintock.com, where you can sign up to receive new release updates.

Website & Blog ~ Amazon ~ Pinterest ~ Instagram

Samantha St. Claire was born in 2016, the alter-ego and pen name of an author of historical fiction born a few decades earlier. She may have found her niche in western historical fiction, served up sweet. Never faint of heart, her signature protagonists face the hazards of the frontier with courage, wit, and a healthy pinch of humor. She divides her time between her homes in Idaho and the Olympic Peninsula.

Follow www.samanthastclaire.com to read more about the research that has helped develop the characters, towns, and stories of the Sawtooth Range Series.

Website & Blog ~ Amazon ~ Facebook

 

Christi Corbett had an early love for the written word. As a child she could often be seen leaving the library with a stack of books so tall she used her chin to balance them in her arms.

Over the years she’s put her love of writing to good use; in addition to writing over three hundred television commercials, she earned the position as head writer for a weekly television show. She left her television career when she and her husband found out they were expecting twins, but she couldn’t leave writing altogether.

She’s now an award-winning author, writing stories of brave men and spirited women settling the American west.

Website & Blog ~ Amazon ~ Facebook ~ Instagram

 

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Giveaway

Ends 4/30/18

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Cowboy and the Vampire Banner 851 x 315

I have got to get this series. I’m a huge fan of Western PNR Horror. And these sound fabulous.

If you haven’t read any, you should try these. Never know what you might be missing.

Check out the series.

Enjoy the glimpse inside the book.

And don’t forget to enter the giveaway.

The Cowboy and the Vampire: The Last Sunset

The Cowboy and the Vampire Collection Book Four

Clark Hays and Kathleen McFall

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Genre: Horror, Western, PNR

Publisher: Pumpjack Press,

Date of Publication: June 9, 2016

ISBN: 978-0-9974113-0-0 / ASIN: B01F0MFBE2

Number of pages: 357 / Word Count: 83,000

Cover Artist: Aaron Perkins

Synopsis

The Cowboy and the Vampire: The Last Sunset is the fourth book in award-winning The Cowboy and the Vampire Collection, a series called everything from cult classic to trailblazer in a new genre: Western Gothic.

Take one long, last look at LonePine, Wyoming, population 438. It’s been two years since the vampires quit the quirky little town and things are mostly back to normal — broken dreams and never enough whiskey. But that’s about to go to hell.

Hold on tight for a midnight showdown when a psychotic religious order takes the entire town hostage — including Tucker’s long-lost brother — to lure Lizzie from her frozen exile in Russia. The mad monks know Lizzie’s murder will strand the ruling vampire elite in a disembodied afterlife so the cult can impose their twisted beliefs on the living and undead alike. It’s a rip-roarin’ stampede as a cowboy and a vampire try to round up the shattered pieces of their unusual romance.

With the fate of the world on the line yet again, can Tucker and Lizzie put aside their broken hearts to face one last sunset together?

Slap leather or reach for the sky.

This is the fourth book in The Cowboy and the Vampire Collection.

Amazon

 

Excerpt:

The first few months were anguish. But then she threw herself into bringing order to her inherited chaos. If she was to run this vampire shit show, she would run it right. And she had, intensely, ruthlessly, for the first year.

Now, everyone knew the rules, knew the consequences for breaking the coda, and—if grudgingly—understood the wisdom behind the annual allocation. She kept her word, showing no favoritism. Nine turns picked by the Council, followed by one pick for Lizzie, with nine nights of rest. By the end of the first year, a fragile trust in her leadership was established.

By the beginning of the second year of her self-imposed exile, as the intensity of the work began to wane, she realized something had shifted. The full weight of her future lodged permanently, sadly, in her soul.

Rurik, forever circling like a handsome vulture, sensed the change.

“Finally, you admit to yourself he is not coming for you,” Rurik said.

“I knew he wouldn’t come,” Lizzie said, more sharply than intended.

“I’m not the one who requires persuading on this point,” Rurik said. “But no matter the reason, I am pleased. Stop working so hard. Amuse yourself with the privileges and pleasures your position affords. You can have anything you want, with no punishment.”

“Punishment?”

“From the society you once valued, or from yourself,” Rurik said. “You are free from guilt, free of all constraints, free to act upon your desires and to assume the glorious existence that awaits only your assent.”

Rurik felt something akin to compassion as he watched Lizzie struggle to control her emotions, mistaking liberation for captivity. He was right in one sense, though; she was coming to the same realization all vampires faced at some point in their long, undead existence, even those whose turning was consensual: there was no going back.

Yes, Lizzie thought, defiantly, as the first year passed into the second. If she was no longer ever to be a human, she might as well have fun. Why the hell not? She submerged herself into her passions and found that although not exactly fulfilling, it was diverting, covering her nightly routines with a shroud of hedonistic numbness that prevented any feelings at all—other than immediate pleasure—from surfacing.

She would never admit it, ever, but Rurik was right on another point. She had waited. She had hoped he would come for her, but why would he? She made it clear by breaking his heart that they would never be together. That he believed her ruse broke her heart.

Such a sad and dusty little tragedy, she thought, clutching the railing. A shadow by the lake’s edge caught her eye—Rurik, out with his dogs.

He felt her gaze and looked up, taking in her nude body and letting his senses wash over it, the closest—it seemed—he would come to possessing her, at least for the time being.

She could feel his heart stuttering, but held her own body in perfect check until he averted his eyes and continued his walk.

Lizzie once again considered whether it was time to move. Rurik’s home was spacious and lonely and safe and remote, and while he had been a good host to her, he enjoyed the power of proximity over the other tribes, and she understood he was motivated by a hope of his own.

“It is inevitable that you and I come together,” he once told her. “You have known this since we first met in that godforsaken American outpost.”

“Nothing is inevitable,” she said. Thwarting his passions had become a habit.

She wondered if Rurik ever missed the man he had once been, the brilliant military strategist who helped turn back the crusaders all those many years ago in a battle for Russia’s soul. “Ironic that you lost your soul in the process,” she said aloud and in his direction.

Her private cell phone buzzed on the bedside table. Lizzie padded back into the room, the wolfhound in tow.

Elita. She picked up the phone.

“Yes?”

“My queen,” Elita said, managing to sound both sarcastic and reverential. Was there a difference, Lizzie wondered?

“My loyal subject, my lovely maid-in-waiting,” Lizzie replied. In all this madness, Elita was her only certainty.

“Whatever that means,” Elita said. “How’s the frozen tundra treating you?”

“Still frozen. Have you wrestled the American Royals and the Reptiles into peaceful coexistence?”

“We’re making progress, one corpse at a time.”

“When will you visit?” Lizzie asked.

“I’m on my way now,” Elita said.

Lizzie paused. That was not a good sign. “That’s a welcome, but unexpected surprise.”

“What I must tell you may not be so welcome.”

“Tell me now,” Lizzie said.

“I’ll save the details until I can tell you face to face, but in brief, I’ve heard rumblings, screaming really, that you have a new enemy.”

“Why would that concern me?”

“Keep your guard up until I arrive.”

“My guard is never down,” Lizzie said, breaking the connection.”

About Authors Clark Hays and Kathleen McFall

Clark Hays

Between the two of them, Clark Hays and Kathleen McFall have worked in writing jobs ranging from cowboy-poet to energy journalist to restaurant reviewer to university press officer. After they met, their writing career took center stage when they wrote the first book in The Cowboy and the Vampire Collection as a test for marriage. They passed. Clark and Kathleen now live in Portland, Oregon.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

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I love cowboys. Ever since I was young and stayed up late with my Dad to watch westerns, I’ve adored them.

Whether the story is set in the old west or current times, I still enjoy reading about them.

A little romance, rustlers, and a kidnapping. Lots to entertain.

I have a fun excerpt for ya too. Gina is a hoot.

Check it out!

And don’t forget to enter the giveaway!

Diamond In The Rough

Diamond J #2

by Lori L. Robinett

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Genre: Contemporary Romance / Western

Synopsis

Ranch hand Aidan Brackston has built a new life at the Diamond J, and he keeps women at arm’s length to protect his secret . . . until he walks into the local scrapbook store on an errand for his boss. When he accidentally knocks Gina on her ass, she responds with a slap . . . and the fireworks begin.

Single mom Gina Montgomery has her hands full running a business and taking care of her little boy. The last thing she needs is a man in her life, but when a tall, dark and sexy cowboy strides into her store, she’s reminded that she’s still a young woman with hopes and desires.

Just as passion ignites between Aidan and Gina, her little boy is kidnapped by rustlers. Will the two of them be able to save her little boy . . . even if that means exposing Aidan’s secret?

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Excerpt

She peeked around the paper rack at the cowboy standing in the front of her store. He was tall, easily six foot. His shoulders were broad, his arms well muscled. A pair of work gloves tucked in his back pockets drew her eyes to his butt. Red dust covered his black cowboy hat, and his boots were scuffed. Yes, yes, yes, she thought, he was a real cowboy.

She scooped up the box of supplies and smiled around the pencil in her teeth. Something dark and fuzzy came into her field of vision, from below, right across the top of the box. Her focus shifted from the cowboy to the thing crawling across the box clutched to her breast.

Spider!!

She screamed. She pitched the box and the contents flew through the air. The spider moved fast across the old linoleum tiles, straight towards her.

She climbed on top of the folding table and squatted there. Its two front legs felt in front of it, as if it were trying to find her.

She was so focused on the spider, she didn’t see the others. Wasn’t even aware that she was not alone in the shop, until she heard Midge’s voice.

“Good grief, stop screaming, would you?”

And she saw him. The cowboy. It took a moment to remember his name. Aidan. That was it. Aidan.

Calm as could be, he walked over, picked up a piece of paper and scooped the spider up. It jerked a bit, then froze. Aidan strode to the front door. Gina stood up on the table and watched as he opened the door, squatted down and tipped the paper. Stunned, she stood and watched. She’d never seen anyone do that before.

Purchase on Amazon

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Author Lori L. Robinett

Diamond InTheRough author

Lori is the author of four books, and serves as a mentor for aspiring writers. She is a creative soul trapped in a paralegal’s body. Several years ago, she discovered (and won) National Novel Writing Month and rediscovered the joy of escaping into a world of her own creation.

She lives in rural Missouri with her husband. One very spoiled Miniature Schnauzer and Miniature Beagle allow Lori and her husband to live in their house, and the outside is patrolled by BK (short for Barn Kitty) and Patches (a sweet tom cat stray that missed his calling as a lap cat).

Her novels cover everything from romance to thrillers, but mystery is the thread that binds them all together. Her favorite authors are Tawna Fenske, Tierney James, Colleen Donnelly, Allison Merritt, Lisa Medley, Lea Waite, Susan Mallery, Hugh Howey, HP Mallory and, well, the list goes on and on.

 

Links: Website / Goodreads / Twitter / Facebook

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For a list of my reviews go HERE

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I’ve been waiting anxiously to share more of the Chupacabra Series with you. I’ve been featuring Michael’s series for years now and it’s always so exciting to have him back again.

There’s so much to share with you today.

Michael has some free books for you!

He has an awesome guest post.

I’ll be sharing my review of the fourth book in this thrilling series, Dawn Of The Chupcabra.

And there’s a killer giveaway! So don’t forget to enter!

9 Halloween Days of Free Chills!

In promoting Dawn of the Chupacabra’s release, and in honor of the Halloween season, Michael has put together his “9 Halloween Days of Free Chills” . His short story, Rattlesnake, plus Curse of the Chupacabra will be free for 5 days!

  Here are the dates for “9 Halloween Days of Free Chills”:

Click on the covers for your free copies. Make sure you check the free dates!

chup rattlesnake cover

10/9/15 – 10/13/15 – Short Western Horror Story Rattlesnake about a man who kidnaps a boy for information about his missing son after narrowly escaping a town gone mad. (Retail: $0.99)

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10/13/15 – 10/17/15 – eBook of Book II, Curse of the Chupacabra, which follows the survivors of the Dillmore Valley massacre as they journey through the mountains for a fresh start, despite the looming terror that awaits around every turn. (Retail: $2.99)

And now, this from Michael Hebler!

10 Fascinating Facts About the Chupacabra Series

Blog host Laura and I have conducted three interviews together, each at the release of a Chupacabra Series novel.  This time, for the release of the fourth book, Dawn of the Chupacabra, Laura thought it best to break tradition by asking that I write a guest post instead.  Immediately I agreed, even though I had no idea what the post would be about.  I had only ever written one guest post before about the roots of the creature feature, and definitely did not want to repeat myself.  Then, on my birthday, it dawned on me that the Chupacabra Series had officially been a part of my life by more than half.  That egg of an idea that was nurtured in 1992 had been given life and matured into this miraculous thing over the last 23 years.  Like a proud parent, it would have learned to walk and speak, learned to drive, and could have even graduated college by now.  And like any upbringing, there were plenty of mistakes, which became learning experiences that aided in the development of the body of work it is today.  Therefore, I thought it would be fun to share ten of my favorite “moments” that you might find fascinating.

1.  Like most things conceived, it takes two.  In the case of this series, it was Clint Eastwood’s remarkable film, Unforgiven, and a student written one-act play I watched in college about a small group trapped inside a saloon with monsters trying to get inside that was the inspiration.  However, until 2010, the stories were only in screenplay format.  It wasn’t until the film production company, Atlas Entertainment (The Dark Knight Series, Inception) asked if I could take my story out of the Old West that I decided to adapt the series into prose.  Obviously, I declined their request.

2. Fan favorite character, Jessie, used to have a brother named Clarence.  He was five years her senior, fifteen, lanky, submissive, and mousy. Jessie protected him at all costs though, like a chupacabra herself, she gave him multiple tongue lashings. Clarence was included in a large church-scene attack that was also written, and then abandoned.  Let’s just say, even if he had survived to the novel adaptation, he would not have survived the Night.

3. Suzanne’s original name was Zelma. Probably the smartest change of any I made in this series.  There was no reason for her to be named Zelma other than I really like the name.  The problem I had with it was that after a few drafts, I realized it did not fit the time period of the Old West.

4. Many readers and reviewers of these books who typically do not enjoy reading phonetic dialogue have stated that they are not bothered by the language when reading Chupacabra.  There could be a reason for this.  Night of the Chupacabra is dedicated to Virginia Grafton-Wade.  The reason for this dedication is in two parts: The year before Night’s release, Virigina was a 94-year-old woman to whom I delivered Meals on Wheels.  A regret in Virginia’s life was that she had always wanted to write a book, but both her mind and years she had left would not allow that dream to be fulfilled.  Though not a fan of horror, Virginia was a fan of westerns.  Her grandfather had lived through the 1870s and 1880s and he used to tell her stories of that time period quite often. Virginia remembered how he spoke, the words and the inflections he would use. Being a second-hand expert, Virginia proofed my dialogue. This not only helped me tremendously, but it also gave her fulfillment to realize that dream of being a part of a book’s creation. Before Virginia’s death in 2014, the first three Chupacabra novels went through the Virginia dialogue grinder.  Legend of the Chupacabra even includes a quote that her grandfather always repeated, which I gave to the Reverend Moyle’s character, “Do not speak ill of others, though it be the truth, rather flatter behind one’s back that your honeyed words be reported.”

5. Though not completely off the shelf, Night of the Chupacabra came close to being adapted into a graphic novel.  I hope to have this idea revisited again soon.

6. The end of Night of the Chupacabra originally occurred in the mines.  During the stagecoach chase of the first book, Raul explains his intentions to Drake about how they would capture and kill the beast inside the caves.  Raul’s “plan” is exactly how Night of the Chupacabra ended in earlier drafts.  The reason for the change was because I thought a more fitting ending was a night that began and ended in Dillmore Valley.  But I did not want to abandon my cavern idea.  Having my heart set on that location, I moved it to its more fitting home in Curse of the Chupacabra.

7. Growing up, my mother used to read anything by Stephen King.  She had an entire bookshelf of his books, but one cover above all others used to give me the creeps.  That is why the original sleeve for Cujo was the inspiration for the cover of Curse of the Chupacabra.

8. Speaking of inspiration, it can come from odd places, as well as at unexpected times.  Years ago, when searching for an idea to keep the center of the story for Legend of the Chupacabra glued together, I was having a couch potato kind of day.  While flipping cable channels, I happened to land on a program called Cities of the Underworld.  This particular episode was about the underground tunnels of Portland, Oregon, where [Legend] would take place.  By the end of the program, I knew I had found my adhesive subplot.  If you can find the episode online, I highly recommend anyone to watch it.  It’s fascinating.

9. Not every baddie received their comeuppance.  Originally, the foul and egotistical Evelyn Diamond (from Curse of the Chupacabra) was supposed to reappear in Legend of the Chupacabra with her traveling show.  Unfortunately, that slippery minx escaped the beast yet again when I realized that having her, as well as another returning character from Book II was too much of a coincidence.  That other character was essential to the plot of the third book while Evelyn’s demise was nothing more than my own personal gratification.  Don’t get me wrong, I love her… I love all my characters… but it just seems wrong to allow such a villainess to live.  Who knows, maybe there’s a short story to be told one day.

10. Originally, this story was about a serial killer in the Old West and not a chupacabra.  I didn’t even now what a chupacabra was at the time, but as this world began to develop, it did become more about a creature.  However, I never could let go of the human murder aspect, which ended up being used as backstory for Book I.  That backstory quickly developed into its own story and has now been released as its own novel, Dawn of the Chupacabra.  So essentially, the second plot developed for the Chupacabra Series was not Book II but Book IV.

Of course, there are many other facts I would love to divulge, but many of those would risk being spoilers to those who have yet to fall prey to the complex chupacabra.  I wouldn’t want to be the one responsible for straightening out any twists or turns for the journey I laid.  One thing I can say is that I have always perceived this series more as family drama than a western horror.  Though I’m not a fan of stories about romantic love, love of family intrigues me the most as a reader and writer.  Family is what drives all my stories, including my recently released short story Rattlesnake, and my upcoming novella for 2016, The Ghost of Christmas Past.

THE END

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DAWN OF THE CHUPACABRA

by Michael Hebler

The fourth chapter in the award-winning Chupacabra Series follows an A.W.O.L. Confederate soldier, who is hunted by a demon sent to avenge the victims of his heinous crimes.

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My Review

I love creature stories and Michael’s series just keeps getting better.

I’m sure you’ve all heard mention of the legendary beast, the chupacabra. the goat sucker. Well, Michael’s put his own spin on this creature and it’s scary as hell.

This book takes you to where it all began.

The chupacabra is terrifying. So relentless. So malevolent. And it will never stop coming for it’s victim. Don’t get in its way.

While the chup is awesome, so are Michael’s characters. They live. They breathe. They bleed.

This author so easily brings his characters to life. You’ll care about them. Worry about them. You’ll love some and hate some. All are important to the story. Even the minor characters add important elements to make this story shout from the pages.

A creature born from a lust for blood vengeance, the chupacabra is not to be controlled. Michael’s use of ancient Indian rituals makes this story even more eerie.

One man, with a horrible past, does despicable deeds. Called to seek vengeance, the chupcabra beings to hunt him. The war is over for most, but the final battle is just beginning for Jeremiah Whiting.

The beginning of this story follows Jeremiah from the battlefield to home and on to Cherokee territory. You won’t like him. You’ll loathe him. Wish him dead in all kinds of ways for the terrible things he’s done. Once he starts on his terrible path, he can’t stop. The voice in his head doesn’t help much and his luck is running out. Jeremiah is lower than pond scum and you’ll be anxious for his demise.

And it’s coming. It’s horrific. It’s hungry for blood. The chupacabra will find Jeremiah. It will toy with him. Torture him. And then… you’ll see the dark side of this cat and mouse ending.

Chilling and disturbing. Fascinating and addictive. The old west is twisted and remolded for Michael’s story. Adding a mythical beast to the mix takes you down a dark and chilling road.

5 Stars

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The Fourth Novel in the Chupacabra Series is Released

Press Release

Fort Myers, FL – October 09, 2015 – On October 13, 2015, the next installment in Michael Hebler’s award-winning dark fiction Chupacabra Series, Dawn of the Chupacabra, will be available on bookshelves and for eReader downloads.

Synopsis

Before Night, Came Dawn

An A.W.O.L. Confederate soldier is hunted by a demon sent to avenge the victims of his treacherous crimes.

Jeremiah Whiting has been a survivor since birth. He endured an abusive upbringing only to fight as a private for the losing side of the American Civil War. But when the war ends, Jeremiah’s battle does not. He will meet his greatest adversary yet, in the form of a heinous entity sent to kill him for crimes against the Cherokee Nation, and the only allies willing to fight at his side are the remarkable instincts he possesses and the voice of a deceptive Soldier who possesses him.

Hebler hopes fans and first-time readers of the series will enjoy the new dynamics in this origins story. “By going all the way back to the chupacabra’s origins, I wanted the reader to have a different experience with this novel,” states Hebler. “I intended for this entry to be grittier and scarier than previous volumes. I had to take it to a very dark place where it could be deemed logical to summon such a beast for the purpose of revenge.”

Hebler further states that this is not only an origins story for the chupacabra, but for some of the characters from previous volumes as well. He also assures the series’ same action and adventure, and promises to answer many lingering questions like who possessed the curse of the creature from Chapter I of Night of the Chupacabra.

The new book will be made available in trade paperback and eBook. Dawn of the Chupacabra also marks the final chapter to take place in the Old West before the series leaps forward into more modern times when the fifth entry, Return of the Chupacabra, is released in 2017.

The ebook is currently available for pre-order at $3.99 and will be raised to $9.99 on the release day,  October 13.  The print book will be retailed at $17.95.

Purchase Links:

Website / Amazon / Smashwords

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Author Michael Hebler

Michael Hebler

Prior to becoming an award-winning author of his dark fiction Chupacabra Series, Michael was a full-time international film publicist who had worked on multiple titles for Walt Disney, Pixar, Lionsgate, Lakeshore Entertainment, Warner Bros., Summit Entertainment, and the 2013 Academy Award-winning Best Foreign Language Film, “La grande bellezza” (The Great Beauty).

Born in the early 1970’s in Los Angeles County to a salesman and homemaker, Michael dreamed of following his passions for entertainment and storytelling by acting. It was while studying theatre arts at Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, California, did he realize his penchant for stories were better suited on the page rather than the stage. But creating tales with suspense, laughter, and heart is not Michael’s only love. Hebler also enjoys volunteering in his local community, as well as aid in the capture/spay/neuter/release feral program.

To date, Michael’s publications include NIGHT OF THE CHUPACABRA, CURSE OF THE CHUPACABRA, and LEGEND OF THE CHUPACABRA (Books I, II, & III of the six-part Chupacabra Series) as well as his first publication, THE NIGHT AFTER CHRISTMAS, a holiday picture book for believers of any age. Michael’s fourth book in the Chupacabra Series, DAWN OF THE CHUPACABRA will be available in print and for ebook on October 13, 2015.
Michael currently resides in Southwest Florida.
Author Links:
Email:
Michael also in the beginning stages of organizing a newsletter.  If you would like to be included on the list once it’s up and running, you can email Michael at the link above.

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Grand Prize – Complete set of paperback signed copies of the Chupacabra Series (US only)

First – Choice of signed paperback copy of Dawn of the Chupacabra (US Only) OR eBooks of the complete series

Runner-Up – Choice of any Chupacabra Series eBook

Entry is easy. Just leave your email address so I can contact you if you win and answer this question:

The chupacabra has found you. What do you do?

Do you fight with everything you can muster?

Do you run screaming into the dark, knowing it’ll catch you?

Do you melt into a blubbering puddle of fear?

Or, do you have something else in mind?

Giveaway ends November 2nd.

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Other books in the series available now.

Night Of The Chupacabra on Amazon

Curse Of The Chupacabra on Amazon

Legend Of The Chupacabra on Amazon

Click on the covers for my reviews.

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