Author Archive

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Grab your popcorn and cop a seat!

It’s time for Thursday Theatre!

I was over on Sherry’s blog fundinmental and while reading her review of MEG I spotted this book trailer. There’s always something fun happening on her blog!

I’ve read all of Steve Alten’s MEG books, plus Goliath and The Loch.

After watching this video I have to get this book.

Check out The Omega Project!

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Isn’t it fantastic!

I believe book trailers are a great promotional gimmick. I’ve bought many a book because of one.

What do you think? Have you bought a book because of its book trailer?

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The Calm Before the Storm VBT Banner (1)

This is a short story dealing in a dark subject manner, domestic abuse.

Many of us know someone who is in this deadly situation, and some of you may be caught up in one.

Joining this tour and spreading the word is one small step by me towards stopping this plague on women, men, and children.

The Calm Before the Storm is offered free on Smashwords.

Written by the author to raise awareness.

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The Calm Before the Storm by Tamaria Soana

The Calm Before the Storm

                        The last two years of Erica Bloom’s life have been spent looking over her shoulder. Sawyer Marsh promised the day she filed for divorce and left him, that if he couldn’t have her no one would. Even though Sawyer hasn’t contacted her in two years she’s still feared for her life. She remembers all too well the nightmare their marriage was and what it felt to be on the receiving end of his wrath.

The news of Sawyer’s engagement allows Erica to finally let her guard down and enjoy her new life and budding relationship with Brock Maxwell.

 

While away relaxing at Brock’s vacation home on the Willow Lake, the past comes back to haunt her. Were the past few years just the calm before the storm? 

Excerpt:

Erica picked it up and smiled when she saw it was Joann calling.

“Hey, Joann.”

“Hi, Erica. You busy?”

“No, not at all. I was just reading the paper.”

“Did you hear the news about Sawyer?”

Erica stood up.  Chills ran down her spine at the mention of his name. “What news?” she replied, just above a whisper.

“He’s getting married.”

The words stunned her.

“Erica, are you still there?” Joann asked.

She took a deep breath, trying to calm down so she could respond.

“How do you know?” she managed to stammer. So many feelings were flowing through her body as she paced the floor. They ranged from fear to relief. Was he truly moving on?

“Tim ran into his cousin at the hardware store. He said they’re getting married in a few months.”

“Wow.” Erica breathed out.

“Are you okay?”

“Yes. This is good news. He’s moved on. Maybe I can stop looking over my shoulder every time I go out. Do you know who she is?”

“No. From what I understand, some woman he met while on a business trip and Sawyer’s  cousin mentioned  that she’s much younger.”

“The poor girl doesn’t know what she’s getting herself into. I feel for her because I know all of his tricks. He’s sexy and charming in the beginning and you’re so over the top in love with him.  You marry him and get so caught up in the fairytale you believe is your life, until one day he changes into the man he truly is. A monster,” Erica stoically stated.

“Erica, I know you went through hell with him, but it’s been two years. You have a terrific man in your life. I think it’s time you let go of the past and live again.”

Erica sank down on the couch. She felt like she was hit by a freight train.  “I have a lot to think about. I’ll call you tomorrow.”

“Let’s get together soon.”

“Sounds great.”

“Erica, relax. The nightmare is finally over.” Her friend reassured her.

“Bye, Joann.” Erica ended the call and stared into space. Could it be that easy? Am I honestly free from that man once and for all?

FREE on Smashwords

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Watch the Trailer:

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From the Author:

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

I wanted to write a short story to raise awareness for Domestic Abuse. This cause is very near to my heart.

 the calm before the storm DVAM

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Here are some Domestic Violence Statistics

  • Every 9 seconds in the US a woman is assaulted or beaten.
  • Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women—more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.
  • Nearly 1 in 5 teenage girls who have been in a relationship said a boyfriend threatened violence or self-harm if presented with a breakup.
  • Every day in the US, more than three women are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends.

Those facts alone make you want to stand up and do something. One thing you can do if you’re in an abusive relationship or know someone who is please get help by calling the hotline.


National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−SAFE (7233) or TTY 1−800−787−3224

Things you can do to make a difference

Donate to The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence   NCADV Site

Support your local woman’s shelter by donating money, clothes,  and basic toiletries.

End the Silence on Domestic Violence   Dr Phil’s Site  View  Dr Phil’s Campaign

About the Author:

Tamaria Soana is middle aged, but just feels her life has begun. She writes sexy contemporary romance stories that always end with a ‘happily ever after’. Growing up she loved to read and make up new places in her head to escape to. In her late teens she began writing short stories and poetry; it wasn’t until her late thirties before she began to spin a full story.

She’s married and a stay-at-home-mom of two beautiful young girls, they reside in Western New York. Cuddling up with a good book under an electric throw is her way to escape the cold Buffalo nights.

Besides writing, she co-owns Shades of Rose Marketing and hosts a talk show on Talkshoe called Live with Tamaria ~ Giving authors a voice.

Author Links:    Site       Facebook Author Page     Twitter

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Tamaria is giving away a $5.00 Amazon Gift Card during her tour.

For a chance to win Just click on the Rafflecopter below.

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY

Shades of Rose Marketing

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways go HERE.

bronzeTour Schedule

Welcome to The Glister Journals : Bronze tour!

Read on to learn more about this award winning novel and don’t forget to enter the giveaway!

You can follow the tour for more fun posts by clicking on the banner above.

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Bronze

The Glister Journals: Bronze

Allison Anderson knows she’s a little different, but it hadn’t bothered her too much-until now. Moving away from everything she’s ever known to a new house, new neighborhood, and new school is bad enough, but it’s her first year of high school too, making it even more intimidating. She’s more aware of her social and physical limitations than ever before. And then there are the new people she meets: the tough-looking girl in her home room; the cute but dangerous-looking boy she first saw before school even started; the quiet, older girl who keeps to herself; the sullen-looking, seemingly isolated junior that doesn’t seem to trust or like her at all. Can she trust them? While the peaceful situation of her new home only amplifies the sound of her own doubts, she begins to learn that things are not always what they seem, and her world is turned upside-down by these new friends, two-legged and otherwise. Life soon becomes more complicated, and much more interesting!

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About The Glister Journals series:

The Glister Journals series is told from the perspective of a normal but not average teenage girl. It is not obvious, but Allison has a mild pervasive developmental disorder (autism spectrum). She thinks and experiences things a little differently from most of the other kids. In the past it has caused her to be alienated at best and bullied at worst. After the family moves, she becomes involved with a group of teens that open up new worlds to her. The four book series follows her through high school but is equally about her friends who have their own problems, fears, and aspects of their lives they’d rather keep quiet. There is action—mostly in the form of equestrian and extreme sports—and though there are only hints of it in Bronze, there is a love story which will play a more prominent part as the series progresses. The main story is about assumptions, acceptance, love, and friendship, though there are other themes running throughout the series.

Amazon * Indiebound * Barnes & Noble

Praise for Bronze

Allison narrates a gentle coming-of-age story that has a strong equine subplot…undeveloped plot points hint at future complications and will likely keep readers looking for the next entry. — Cindy Welch Booklist Online

Written with intelligent humor, this tale follows an awkward girl as she enters a new school…This is a strong first book, both for Shepherd and for the series. The friendships the characters build are realistic and lifelike, strong, and durable, just like bronze. — Beth VanHouten ForeWord Reviews

The story is well-written and sweetly told. Allison’s anxieties and insecurities are true-to-life, and so affectionately and clearly portrayed as to make anyone who’s ever been through adolescence wince in sympathy. Dave, Robin and Chris are complicated, intelligent, three-dimensional characters whom the reader enjoys getting to know, and all of the minor characters are vividly drawn and believably real. The author is adept at setting a scene, both external and internal, bringing Allison’s mind and world to vivid life. — Catherine Langrehr IndieReader

“Bronze: The Glister Journals” is a well-written novel of teenagers and their world. It is also a story of horses and teenage horsemanship. The main character Allison is a totally delightful fourteen year old girl whose innocence and awkwardness is refreshing. — Alice DiNizo Readers’ Favorite

indie readerLiterary Fiction IndieReader Award Winner

BBAuthor B.B. Shepherd

A graduate of Cal Poly with graduate work at Chapman and U C Santa Cruz, B. B. Shepherd has lived most of her life in California and loves the diverse beauty of its many landscapes. Music, horses, literature, and art have been her passions as long as she can remember. She enjoys road trips, almost all horse sports and extreme sports (as a spectator), and is addicted to research.

As a writer, Shepherd enjoys exploring emotions and motivations: why do people do what they do? She also likes trying to find the funny side of things. She admits to being a hopeless romantic and often gets in trouble for her sense of humor. Bronze is her debut novel, the first in a series of four called The Glister Journals. She currently works full time as a music professional and educator, and lives in the San Francisco Bay area with her youngest daughter and a very silly cat.

Website * Facebook * Goodreads * Twitter * Blog

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$100 BookBlast Giveaway

$100 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Ends 10/18/13

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, Not A Writer and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

Click on the rafflecopter link below to enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways go HERE.

WWW Wednesday

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Hosted by MizB at Should Be Reading

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

• What are you currently reading?

• What did you recently finish reading?

• What do you think you’ll read next?

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What are you currently reading?

Shadow of Danger

by Kristine Mason 

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Four women have been found dead in the outskirts of a small Wisconsin town. The only witness, clairvoyant Celeste Risinski, observes these brutal murders through violent nightmares and hellish visions. The local sheriff, who believes in Celeste’s abilities and wants to rid their peaceful community of a killer, enlists the help of an old friend, Ian Scott, owner of a private criminal investigation agency, CORE. Because of Ian’s dark history with Celeste’s family, a history she knows nothing about, he sends his top criminalist, former FBI agent John Kain to investigate.

John doesn’t believe in Celeste’s mystic hocus-pocus, or in her visions of the murders. But just when he’s certain they’ve solved the crimes, with the use of science and evidence, more dead bodies are discovered. Could this somehow be the work of the same killer or were they dealing with a copycat? To catch a vicious murderer, the skeptical criminalist reluctantly turns to the sensual psychic for help. Yet with each step closer to finding the killer, John finds himself one step closer to losing his heart.

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What did you recently finish reading?

The Haunted House on Wheels

by Dennis Yates

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Brothers Jerry and Mark have taken a long summer trip to visit their cousin Cindy. When Cindy insists that they go see a haunted house at a traveling carnival, the boys are skeptical at first. It’s not until they actually see it for themselves that they begin to change their minds.

Even after hearing the chilling stories Cindy has told them about the man who built the house, they only have an inkling of what awaits them inside.

Little do they know how those stories barely scratch the surface, that there are angry ghosts within who have other plans for them!

And it’s way too late to back out now, never mind a refund.

Because it’s beginning to look like there’s no way out!

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What do you think you’ll read next?

Forever After

by David Jester 

 

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Forever After follows Michael Holland, a grim reaper in a grim town. An embittered and melancholic man who struggles to grasp the purpose of his own existence, or lack thereof. He is a minuscule cog in a monumental machine and knows less of his role than those surrounding him — from his boss, the mighty Angel of Death, to his friend and flatmate Chip: a grubby midget tooth fairy with an addiction to pot and procrastination.Brittleside is a dank, dark and decrepit town, and Michael Holland is its reluctant reaper. From dealing with the drunks, the druggies and the wasters, to tracking an escaped demon who believes he is Santa Claus; Forever After follows his escapades over four dark and humorous tales.A paranormal and comic romp through a fantasy world where the mythical, the fantastical, the insane and the typical combine. A mix of dystopia and comedy, if the works of Philip K. Dick and Terry Pratchett were to ever procreate, Forever After would be the bastard child of their creative communion.
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So, whatcha readin?

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I’ve been waiting for The Fragile Things Part II  to be released!

It’s here and I can’t wait to read it!

Check out this cover art. Both books look awesome.

Keep reading to learn more about these stories and how you can get the first book free and a chance to win the second book!

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FragileThingsPII

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Description

Part II of the epic horror serial
Jennifer’s world continues to spiral out of control, but a chance meeting with her sister, Gwen, may or may not provide the lifeline she so desperately requires. Yet healing old family rifts is the least of Jennifer’s problems.
A monster has come to Blackcross, one who wears the skin of a girl and is capable of ripping a man to pieces.
Jennifer is the only one who knows its secret, and might be the only one who can stop it.
Tony has his hands full. Looking for Morris, his search takes him to an abandoned block of flats where an unfortunate event puts him upon the beginnings of an even darker path.
Ebony needs blood. Good blood. With the clock ticking and her strength rapidly fading, there may be only one way out.

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The Fragile Things is episode one of V. Shaw’s 4 part serial horror story.

The Fragile Things

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My Review

Jennifer has kicked her long time drug habit, but temptation is great as she’s living with her drug dealing boyfriend, Tony.

In desperation, she flees Tony and his druggie friends and camps out in the woods. She’s estranged from her family and has nowhere to go.

Her neighbor, Ebony, from across the street, happens upon her and they form a tentative friendship.

It’s difficult for either woman to trust anyone, or themselves, as they both have baggage.

Jennifer is fighting her soul-eating craving for drugs and Ebony is fighting her craving to not drink Jennifer dry.

Two damaged women with no one to turn to but each other.

This book reads like a serial episode on TV.

You know before you start reading it,  it’s going to be short and leave you hanging.

That didn’t bother me, as I’ve read another of the authors books and loved her writing.

This book is a dark, psychological read about hope, friendship, and overcoming huge adversities.

I was immediately drawn to Ebony and Jennifer. These flawed characters are genuine and my heart went out to them.

Sure, ones an ex-addict and the other is a vicious vampire, but you forget that somewhat as you learn what makes them tick.

The town of Blackcross has its secrets and something evil is coming.

There’s no shortage of suspense and the horror jumps out and says Boo!

A great beginning to this series and excited to read more, for sure!

5 Stars for excellent  campfire storytelling.

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I’ve also read and reviewed V. Shaw’s The Lady of Chains and Other Stories

The Lady of Chains and Other Stories

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Description

“Remember; you have seventy-two hours to do the deed and not a moment longer. Cut her throat and remove her heart. That, my girl, is the only way to destroy the wretched creature.” Greylock. A city supported by a network of scaffolding, bleeding rust and wheezing steam. Patrolled by an army of ‘metal men’ – creatures who’re designed for nothing more than to kill and destroy. Nothing grows. Nothing truly lives. Viola, a young orphan girl, has been thrust into this nightmarish world by the devious Mrs Casket, caretaker of the mysterious tower and maid to the Lady of Chains, a woman imprisoned without a sentence. A woman who almost single-handedly destroyed the world . . . Viola has been gifted with a task which could either see her demise or be her salvation. But who is the Lady of Chains? And why does she insist that she is connected to Viola? With the clock ticking and the metal men drawing near, Viola is about to learn that not everything in Greylock is what it seems. A spellbinding novelette with elements of steampunk. **** ALSO INCLUDES THE SHORT STORIES; Hansel and Gretel Rogan and the Gargoyle The Silent World BONUS MATERIAL: Also contains a preview of the up-coming horror serial, The Fragile Things.

You can read my review here.

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About V. Shaw

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V. Shaw is the author of the short fiction collection, The Lady of Chains and Other Stories. Born in Scotland, she studied Film and Media at Stirling University. Having reviewed horror films for the now defunct FatallyYours.com, she has turned her attention to creating her own stories.

Writer. Urban explorer. Climber. Horror junkie. Beer guzzler. Book obsessed. Cinema and television fiend. Nerd for life.

Her blog

Goodreads

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The Fragile Things Part I is free to download from Amazon Wednesday, Oct, 2nd and Thursday, Oct. 3rd.

Go HERE to get yours now.

To celebrate her new release , the author is giving away 25 copies of The Fragile Things Part II.

This is a quick giveaway!

The first 25 people to leave their email address and a comment will receive a copy of Part II.

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways go HERE.

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Ooh! Another steamy read from A.M. Hargrove!

I’ve read all of her books and can’t wait to tell you about Tragically Flawed.

You are going to love Riviera and Shan.

Don’t forget to enter the amazing giveaway!

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Buy Links: Amazon / B&N / Smashwords

BOOK SUMMARY

Riviera Benson has a talent…one she discovered by accident. She’s a painter, but canvas isn’t her medium. She creates her lovely masterpieces on walls and ceilings of million dollar homes as murals and faux finishes. Her art is in high demand now, but life wasn’t always that way. Riviera has secrets from her past she intends to keep tightly locked away…terrifying secrets that keep her awake at night…that prevent her from getting close to anyone…anyone that is, until she meets Shan.

Benjamin Shandon, owner of Shandon Homes, works like a thousand demons are chasing him…because perhaps they are. His business has boomed, ever since the forest fire swept through the canyon and destroyed hundreds of million dollar homes. He demands excellence in everything…from his employees to his women. He slows down for nothing, keeping a schedule that no sane person would want. But Riviera interrupts everything, twisting his guts inside out, and wedging her way into his heart, destroying a promise he made to himself.

Will they let their pasts control their future, or will they decide to let go and allow their hearts to discover each other’s?

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Enjoy this glimpse inside Tragically Flawed

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My Review

Like so many times before, A.M. Hargrove cast a spell on me. I’ve read all of her books and always found that my time spent in her stories was too brief. I’m always left wanting more.

So, when I got my hands on Tragically Flawed, I had to start reading right away.

What I discovered was a captivating love story with flesh and blood characters haunted by their past.

Riviera has escaped an abusive relationship, but the scars and bruises remain on the inside long after they fade from her body.

Starting over in a new town, she finds a roommate who becomes her close friend and supporter.

While her talent for painting lands Riviera a job quickly, her boss is insecure and has a reputation for bullying her employees.

Shan is the owner of Shandon Homes and that’s how they first meet. While working in what Riviera thinks is an empty house, her boisterous singing awakens a monster. Shan storms in, shouting abuse and reduces her to a quivering wreck.

Their first meeting may have been a disaster but as they work together and begin to know each other, their attraction grows.

Can two damaged people, one unable to forgive himself for a past tragedy and one running from the echoes of her previous life find healing and trust through each other?

Riviera is a woman to applaud. Scared and vulnerable, she’s also strong and determined. Sure, she’s danced with the devil, but she still believes there’s good in the world.

Shan is sexy, bold and alpha all the way, but he’s burdened with guilt over his part in the loss of a friend. Riviera slips past the walls he hides behind and gives him hope.

There are some secondary characters you’ll meet and want to know more about and a boss from the dark side that you’ll love to hate.

Tragically Flawed was a fast read for me. It dabbled in the dark side but it was also funny and sexy.

About the sexy. If you blush easily you’re going to have rosy cheeks. A.M. Hargrove is really good at raising your blood pressure and steaming up your kindle.

This book was beyond what I hoped it would be and I’ll be recommending it to all who’ll listen. Except for the young readers. The content is for a mature reader.

I’m tickled pink to give it a resounding 5 STARS

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A.M. Hargrove

A.M. Hargrove

One day, on her way home from work as a sales manager, A. M. Hargrove, realized her life was on fast forward and if she didn’t do something soon, it would quickly be too late to write that work of fiction she had been dreaming of her whole life.  So, she rolled down the passenger window of her fabulous (not) company car and tossed out her leather briefcase.  Luckily, the pedestrian in the direct line of fire was a dodge ball pro and had über quick reflexes enabling him to avoid getting bashed in the head.  Feeling a tad guilty about the near miss, A. M. made a speedy turn down a deserted side street before tossing her crummy, outdated piece-of-you-know-what laptop out the window.  She breathed a liberating sigh of relief, picked up her cell phone, called her boss and quit her job.  Grinning, she made another call to her hubs and told him of her new adventure (after making sure his heart was beating properly again).

So began A. M. Hargrove’s career as a YA/NA and Adult Romance writer. Her books include the following: Edge of Disaster, Shattered Edge and Kissing Fire (The Edge Series); The Guardians of Vesturon series (Survival, Resurrection, Determinant, reEmergent and Beginnings); Dark Waltz and Tragically Flawed.

Other than being in love with writing about being in love, she loves chocolate, ice cream and coffee and is positive they should be added as part of the USDA food groups.

Author Links:

Blog: http://amhargrove.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Amhargrove1

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

Author Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5338829.A_M_Hargrove

TRAGICALLY FLAWED Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18271624-tragically-flawed

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Look what you can win!

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Click on the rafflecopter link below to enter.

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways go HERE.

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Can you feel it? Fall is here and that means Halloween is coming!

What better way to get in the mood than with some zombies.

I have four stories for you. A fun, YA series about one of my favorite undead, zombies!

Check out The Chronicles of Orlando.

Download the first book for FREE.

And don’t forget to enter the giveaway!

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The Un-Dead Circus

The Chronicles of Orlando

Book Four

M.M. Shelley

 

A circus has arrived and it brought the Un-dead with it.

Since Orlando moved to Los Angeles he had been attacked by zombies, zombie bulls, ghost and now a band of immortals want him dead.
Betrayed by someone close and running low on resources Orlando has only one option– to join the enemy he had been fighting as he faces his biggest challenges– facing the mysteries of the Un-Dead Circus and keeping his friends alive.

Smashwords  Amazon

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City of the Un-Dead

The Chronicles of Orlando

Book Three

M.M. Shelley

What would you risk for immortality?

The Day of the Dead is celebrated once a year, a day when those who have died are remembered. This year the dead are returning and they are returning as an army to seek vengeance against Orlando.

Smashwords  Amazon

 

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Dead Relatives

The Chronicles of Orlando

Book Two

M.M. Shelley

After discovering what was hidden in Mexico and having to sneak back across the border Orlando returns to Los Angeles, but is unable to return to his home.

Instead of hunting Zombies he is now hunted.

Betrayed by those he thought he could trust, Orlando must keep the truth of what he knows to himself.

That is until dead relatives return with dire warnings.

 

Amazon

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The Zombie Story

The Chronicles of Orlando

Book One

M.M. Shelley

Unfolding on the streets of Los Angeles is a new breed of monster…
Orlando, fresh from the mid west, arrives at his new high school on his Harley Davidson.
All he wants is to make it through the day, and begin his training as a Zombie Hunter.

But someone has different plans for him.

Currently free for your Kindle

About M.M. Shelley

Image of M. M. Shelley

M.M. Shelley is a storyteller, word smith and dreamer. She has traveled the world extensively in search of the magic which is often overlooked in every day life. M.M. Shelley is a native of southern California, and a student of mythology from which she gets much inspiration.

Visit M.M. Shelley:

www.mmshelley.com

http://mmshelley.blogspot.com

Twitter   Facebook

Goodreads

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Enter for a chance to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card

Click on the rafflecopter link below to enter.

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways go HERE.

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Welcome to My Monday Minis.

This is where I review very short stories and flash fiction.

For today I’ll be telling you about Beginnings

The Prequel to The Guardians of Vesturon Series 

by A.M. Hargrove

Beginnings: Prequel to The Guardians of Vesturon

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You met the Guardians of Vesturon in Survival and Resurrection.  Now read about how their parents, Rowan and Annalise met in Beginnings, the novella Prequel to The Guardians of Vesturon.  Learn more about Rowan and how Annalise unwittingly captured his heart and how his chance meeting of her took him on a journey of forbidden love.

My Review

I was thrilled when the this book was released. I’ve read the entire Vesturon Series and this back story about Rowan and Annalise and how they met was like cheese cake with strawberries drizzled all over it. A sweet, tasty morsel to satisfy my craving for more.

When Rowan first lay eyes on Annalise, he was a goner. But when he approached her, she discouraged his advances.

First-Born and lower- born were not allowed to fraternize and Annalise could lose her job, or maybe worse if caught even speaking to Rowan.

But Rowan is not to be denied and sets out to change the out of date , prejudicial laws set by the Council of Elders, not just for him, but for everyone. Even standing up to his father, the Great Ruler of Vesturon.

I tore through this book in about an hour, not pausing until the end.

I admired Rowan and his fight for change. He was dogged in his determination and so tender with Annalise.

Annalise will melt your heart like she did Rowan’s when he gazed into her eyes. She’s gentle but not timid and supports Rowan’s fight.

It was also interesting to read about Rowan’s training as a Guardian. It was very brutal and reminded me of what soldiers go through in our special forces elite units.

I couldn’t imagine being tortured until I broke, and that’s knowing that they really won’t kill you. Scary stuff.

Now that I’ve read Beginnings I just may have to read the whole series again. I remember just how much I love this world and its many characters.

When you read The Guardian’s of Vesturon series you’ll see how these two loving people instilled their self-confidence and strong beliefs in their children.

4 STARS

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Other books in The Guardians of Vesturon Series

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A Praestani Series Novel

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The Edge Series

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About A.M. Hargrove

A.M. Hargrove

One day, on her way home from work as a sales manager, A. M. Hargrove, realized her life was on fast forward and if she didn’t do something soon, it would quickly be too late to write that work of fiction she had been dreaming of her whole life.  So, she rolled down the passenger window of her fabulous (not) company car and tossed out her leather briefcase.  Luckily, the pedestrian in the direct line of fire was a dodge ball pro and had über quick reflexes enabling him to avoid getting bashed in the head.  Feeling a tad guilty about the near miss, A. M. made a speedy turn down a deserted side street before tossing her crummy, outdated piece-of-you-know-what laptop out the window.  She breathed a liberating sigh of relief, picked up her cell phone, called her boss and quit her job.  Grinning, she made another call to her hubs and told him of her new adventure (after making sure his heart was beating properly again).

So began A. M. Hargrove’s career as a YA/NA and Adult Romance writer. Her books include the following: Edge of Disaster, Shattered Edge and Kissing Fire (The Edge Series); The Guardians of Vesturon series (Survival, Resurrection, Determinant, reEmergent and Beginnings); Dark Waltz and Tragically Flawed.

Other than being in love with writing about being in love, she loves chocolate, ice cream and coffee and is positive they should be added as part of the USDA food groups.

Author Social Media Links:

http://www.amhargrove.blogspot.com

http://www.amhargrove.com

http://www.twitter.com/@amhargrove1

http://www.facebook.com/anne.m.hargrove

http://www.facebook.com/guardiansofvesturon

http://www.goodreads.com/amhargrove1

Check out this series!

The cover art blows you away and when you read the blurbs for these books you’ll be just like me, saying, “Gimme, Gimme!”

Welcome Helen Harper and her Blood Destiny Series.

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway!

But first, a quick interview with Helen!

Image of Helen Harper

1. What are 5 things within touching distance?

A cup of green tea, The Fault In Our Stars by John Green, my PS3 remote, the telephone bill and one slightly snoring calico cat.

2. What is your least favorite word?

Whatever.  Although it’s probably more the tone of voice and intention that people use when they employ it to dismiss someone or something, spitting it out as if it’s a swearword that I really dislike.  I think it manages to convey utter disdain, apathy and disgust all at the same time, and it annoys me intensely.

3. What part of the writing process do you dread?

The last chapter.  I hate writing the ending of the books, even more so than editing or proofreading.  When I wrote my first book, Bloodfire, it took me a month to write the ending.  With Bloodmagic, I hammered out 80,000 words in three months and then it sat unopened on my computer for a full further six months because I didn’t want to write the ending.  I guess that maybe it’s because I enjoy writing the books so much that, when it gets to the end, I just don’t want it to be over.

4. What is your favorite Joke?

A horse walks into a bar and the barman says, ‘Why the long face?’

It’s a silly joke, but it was my dad’s favourite one.  He passed away five years ago now and it always makes me think of him fondly.

BLOOD DESTINY SERIES

by Helen Harper

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BLURBS:

Bloodfire

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Mackenzie Smith has always known that she was different. Growing up as the only human in a pack of rural shapeshifters will do that to you, but then couple it with some mean fighting skills and a fiery temper and you end up with a woman that few will dare to cross. However, when the only father figure in her life is brutally murdered, and the dangerous Brethren with their predatory Lord Alpha come to investigate, Mack has to not only ensure the physical safety of her adopted family by hiding her apparent humanity, she also has to seek the blood-soaked vengeance that she craves.

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Bloodmagic

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After escaping the claws of Corrigan, the Lord Alpha of the Brethren, Mack is trying to lead a quiet lonely life in Inverness in rural Scotland, away from anyone who might happen to be a shapeshifter. However, when she lands a job at an old bookstore owned by a mysterious elderly woman who not only has a familiar passion for herbal lore but also seems to know more than she should, Mack ends up caught in a maelstrom between the Ministry of Mages, the Fae and the Brethren.

Now she has to decide between staying hidden and facing the music, as well as confronting her real feelings for the green eyed power of Corrigan himself.

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Bloodrage

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Mack begins her training at the mages’ academy in the hope that, by complying, the stasis spell will be lifted from her old friend, Mrs. Alcoon. However, once there, she finds herself surrounded by unfriendly adults and petulant teenagers, the majority of whom seem determined to see her fail.

Feeling attacked on all fronts, Mack finds it harder and harder to keep a rein on her temper. Forced to attend anger management classes and deal with the predatory attentions of Corrigan, the Lord Alpha of the shapeshifter world, her emotions start to unravel. But when she comes across a familiar text within the walls of the mages’ library, which might just provide the clues she needs to unlock the secrets of her background and her dragon blood, she realises that her problems are only just beginning…

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Helen will award a $25 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour.

Follow the tour for more fun posts and comment; the more you comment, the better your chances of winning. The tour dates can be found here.

Click on the rafflecopter link below to enter.

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY

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About Helen Harper and where to find her books

Image of Helen Harper

Helen Harper is an English teacher currently living abroad in Malaysia. As a long time reader of urban fantasy, she finally bit the bullet and began to develop her own series of novels.

Helen has always been a book lover, devouring science fiction and fantasy tales when she was a child growing up in Scotland. “I always loved the escapism provided by those genres,” states Helen. “No matter how bad life gets, you can always find a route out, even if only temporarily, in the pages of a good book.”

The growth of urban fantasy fascinated her – the mix of reality and fantasy along with strong heroic female characters appealed from the very beginning, and inspired her to write her own.

Facebook Author page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Helen-Harper/101590660022586

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HarperFire

Amazon.com buy links: Just click on the Amazon button below the covers.

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways go here.

Entangled Ever After Releases Tour Banner 450 x 169

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Entangled’s  Ever After Book Tour has some awesome new releases and I’m excited to be able to show them to you.

Thanks to Bewitching Book Tours for organizing this grand showcase!

Check out these books, now available, and don’t forget to enter the giveaways!

Yep, many giveaways today!

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Haunted Chemistry

Lindsey Loucks

ISBN: 9781622662982

Book Description:

When bookish college co-ed Alexis heads to the laundry room in her new apartment, she runs into Ian Reese, the chem lab partner she crushed on all last semester. And the guy who stood her up on their first date. But she’s down for an awkward reunion, and no better place than her creepy laundry room.

Ian has every intention of making amends, but just when Alexis begins to trust him again, a new threat calls more than their future together into question. A ghost from the apartment’s past is hellbent on revenge, and if he wants to get his girl, he’ll have to get the ghost first.

Amazon   BN  Goodreads

Giveaway:

$50 gift card. Winner’s choice of Amazon or B&N

Click HERE to enter the Rafflecopter

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Mercy

Mercy

Jan Doffey

ISBN: 9781622663347

Book Description:

Julia Klein’s life has begun to unravel—her daughter Amy has been suspended from school, Julia is about to lose her job, and her boyfriend Garrett is being transferred thousands of miles away.

Overwhelmed, she and Amy leave for a weekend at a rambling old colonial inn. Julia never suspects that Garrett, desperate to find a way to keep Julia in his life, has decided to surprise her by joining them. Nor does she expect her daughter to befriend a mischievous ghost…or that she herself would be possessed by the malevolent spirit of a long-dead mother.

As a dark secret emerges, Julia, Amy, and Garrett find themselves pitted in a fight for survival against a savage presence that intends to resurrect/repeat/relive a horrible crime committed two centuries ago.  And this time, Amy and Julia will be the victims.

Amazon  BN  Goodreads

Giveaway:

$20 digital gift card (Winner’s Choice: Amazon or B&N) and a Nautical brooch for every tour stop.

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Click HERE to enter the Rafflecopter

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Northern Light

E.J. Russell

ISBN: 9781622662845

Genre: M/M Romance

Book Description:

Nothing gives art fraud investigator Luke Morganstern a bigger rush than busting forgers, the low-life criminals who dare victimize true artists. But when his latest job sends him to a remote cabin in the OregonCoastRange, he’s stunned to discover the alleged forger is his former lover, Stefan Cobbe, the most gifted painter Luke has ever known.

Stefan, left homeless and destitute after the death of his wealthy partner, doesn’t exactly deny the forgery — he claims he doesn’t remember, an excuse Luke can’t accept.

But Luke’s elderly client suggests Stefan may be telling the truth and presents another possibility – a dark presence in the woods, a supernatural fury simmering for decades. Luke must face down his fear of the uncanny – and admit his feelings for Stefan – if either of them is to survive.

Amazon    BN    Goodreads

Giveaway:

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The Oregon Chill-chaser bundle: (US ONLY)

Mystic Water handwarmer mug from Clay in Motion Pottery

9.5 oz Dark Hot Chocolate mix from Moonstruck Chocolatiers

Click HERE to enter the Rafflecopter Giveaway.

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Ruby Hill

Sarah Ballance

ISBN: 9781622662258

Book Description

 

From her earliest memories, Ashley Pearce has been drawn to Ruby Hill Lunatic Asylum, and she’s not the only one. Decades after the abandoned hospital ended its institutional reign of torture and neglect, something lurks in the shadows. Since she’s a paranormal investigator, it’s Ashley’s job to find out what.

Crime scene expert Corbin Malone doesn’t believe in ghosts. A born skeptic, he has no interest in entertaining the hype surrounding the mysterious deaths at Ruby Hill, but he won’t turn his back while more women die. He agrees to an overnight investigation, never expecting his first encounter would be with the woman he pushed away a year ago. But when he discovers Ashley is a target, he learns his greatest fear isn’t living with his own demons, but losing her for good.

Amazon    BN  Goodreads

Giveaway:

 

$25 Gift Certificate to winner’s choice of Amazon or Barnes & Noble AND Skelton Key blue Swarovski heart Art Nouveau necklace (US/Canada ONLY)

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Click HERE to enter the Rafflecopter Giveaway

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Wish Upon a Star

Michelle McLean

ISBN: 9781622663323

Book Description:

Ceri McKinley never stopped wishing that her ex-fiancé Jason Crickett would come back into her life. But when he finally does, he comes with a request that puts them both—and all of humanity—into jeopardy.

Jason only wants two things: to bury his brother properly and to convince Ceri to trust him again after he jilted her. But when Ceri agrees to help him get his brother back, they end up fighting for their lives as a zombie uprising threatens them all.

Amazon    BN   Goodreads

Giveaway:

$20 Gift Card (Winner’s Choice: Amazon/B&N) & a “Wish” Necklace

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Click HERE to enter the Rafflecopter Giveaway

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One Thousand and One Nights

One Thousand and One Nights

Ruth Browne

ISBN: 9781622663316

Book Description:

Sheri spends her days fighting zombies and her nights chained to a wall, earning her every breath by telling stories to her captor Aleksy—stories that make them both forget the ruined world. Sheri could put up with the conditions—at least she knows her sister is safe in the community Aleksy leads—until she realizes she’s falling for him…even though he wants her dead.

When Aleksy allowed Sheri and her sister into his compound, he didn’t know about the zombie bite on her back. It’s only a matter of time before she turns into one of the rising dead and threatens their existence, but Aleksy has a secret need for Sheri and her stories. For everyone’s safety, he chains her to his bedroom wall, hoping for just one more day. But how long will the community allow Aleksy to ignore his own rule: always kill the infected. Always.

Amazon  Goodreads   BN

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Entangled Ever After Releases Button 300 x 225

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

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For all of my giveaways go HERE.