Posts Tagged ‘excerpt’

The Occult Series By Lauren Louise Hazel ~ Guest Post and Giveaway

Posted: March 13, 2026 in giveaways, Guest Post, urban fantasy, YA
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A shuddering, thrilling urban fantasy series.

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The Reign of the Occult

The Occult Series Book 1

by Lauren Louise Hazel

Genre: YA Urban Fantasy

The Reign of the
Occult is a shuddering, thrilling, urban fantasy for Young Adults. Filled with
hair raising chases through shadowy streets, frightening fights and
mind-blowing magic, it’s sure to keep many a different genre loving reader
happy.

The battle between the Underworld, full of darkness, and the Overworld, full of
light, has been evenly balanced for millennia. Caught between them is the
mortal world, where humans have become so afraid of a magic they cannot
understand or control that they allow the Occult to rule them. After the Occult
joins forces with the Underworld, the balance shifts and the Overworld is
decimated.

But still, in the mortal world, the magic won’t die. It appears when a
supernatural being and a human have a child, like Prue.

This is the first volume in an epic new fantasy series that spans the three
richly detailed worlds as Prue, her non-magical half-brother Everett, and all
Magic Users, fight to survive. They are being hunted by the Occult, who turn
the Magic Users they capture into tools to eliminate their own kind and,
eventually, to destroy all traces of magic.

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* Goodreads

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Chapter 1 – Run

“Prue!”
Everett gasped, unable to disguise the desperation in his voice. His legs were
aching, his lungs burning, and his heart was pounding erratically in his chest
– a reminder that, despite everything, he was still alive.

Maybe not for much longer.

He wheezed,
attempting to inhale more air, but from the weakness in his legs, he knew he
wouldn’t last much longer.

“Prue! Which
way?” he cried, casting a panicked glance at his sister. He imagined he could
hear them, the cocking of their guns, drawing near. Every flicker of movement
in the streetlight, every sound, felt magnified, as though even the shadows
were poised and ready to pounce.

“Both ways
are blocked,” Prue replied at last, her feet pounding the pavement beside Everett,
faltering only as they approached the junction. She frowned, eyelashes
fluttering, and clenched her fists, her nails leaving angry red indentations in
the palms of her hands. She was very pale.

“What are
you talking about?” Everett gasped, slowing to a canter.

“Nothing is certain.”

Everett,
while used to his sister’s cryptic remarks, was not in the mood for games. “That’s
not helping!” he cried, skidding to a halt as they reached the turning. He cast
a glance over his shoulder. “Are we going left, or right?”

Prue froze
and her eyes did too, as they often were when she saw things nobody else could.
“I told you,” she said, in a detached tone. “Both ways are blocked.”

Everett
cocked the gun he’d held loosely in his palm, trying to ignore the way it
slipped slightly in his grasp, dampened by his sweat-slick skin. “Does that
mean we’re dead either way?” he asked, with a carelessness he didn’t quite
feel. He checked his ammunition, if only to busy his shaking hands, knowing it
would probably make little difference in the end. Maths had never been his
strong point, but he knew one gun against hundreds were never favourable odds.

“They’re
coming,” Prue informed her brother, although she did not meet his eyes. She was
staring into the blackness at the other end of the street; Everett followed her
gaze, but as always, saw nothing.

“Where—?” he
began, before freezing. He couldn’t see, only hear, the rapid pounding of
footsteps along a cobbled street. Low at first, the sound was growing louder,
clear in the otherwise silent night. The hairs on the back of his neck were
standing up in warning. “Ok, you’re right,” he conceded, in a generous tone, “They’re
coming! No foresight needed for that. Which way do we go?”

Prue shook
her head, dark hair clinging to her bowed face, her eyes crunched in
concentration. She was covered in sweat.

“Wait— wait—”
Everett muttered, in a panicked breath, realising his sister was going to be of
no help. He could see them now, shadows moving in the darkness, emerging at the
end of the street. The Officers of the Occult. He shot three times in quick
succession – one, two, three – and something must have found its mark, from the
strangled cry of pain that followed. They were still alive, then. Good.

Everett had
only a moment to feel relief before the others swarmed. They were closing in on
them. Although in range, they had yet to fire a single shot; as he expected,
their aim was to capture, not to kill.

“Something
is changing,” Prue said from beside Everett. She clutched her head, fisting her
fingers into her hair, as though physically trying to remove something from her
mind. “Another factor is clouding things. His choices are unclear. He’s
conflicted already.”

“Prue!”
Everett cried, trying to pick something of use from her incoherent ramblings.
He pushed her sideways, behind the wall of a garden and out of sight – at least
for the moment. They were running out of time – the Officers would be upon them
in less than a minute, and then there would be no escape. “Pick a way! Which
way has more chance of survival?”

Prue gazed
up at the sky, but she was seeing nothing. “Left,” she replied at last, “Maybe
he will spare us.”

Without taking a second to contemplate what his
sister might mean, Everett grabbed her slippery hand and pulled, turning a
sharp left, the Officers of the Occult temporarily vanishing from view. 

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The Queen of the Underworld

The Occult Series Book 2

The Queen of the
Underworld is the second novel in the award-winning The Occult Series
by Lauren Louise Hazel.

Following the fall of The Occult and its Head, Prue receives visions of The
Queen of the Underworld—a powerful Demon who was once overthrown by her allies
and exiled from her homeland—rising in its place.

Prue sees that the Queen is connected to Prue’s best friend, Lily. This leads
Prue and her half-brother, Everett, on their mission across worlds to destroy
the Queen and save their friend. But nothing is what it seems.

The Queen is ready and waiting for them—and she will stop at nothing to secure
her future and wipe out anyone who opposes her.

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As a kid, my dad would always take my sister and I to Waterstones. He always said that the only thing he would always buy us, would be books. While my sister was more interested in numbers, I was more interested in creative subjects. My mum bought me a first edition of Harry Potter and The Prisoner of Azkaban, which would be worth a fortune if my cousin hadn’t torn out the front page. I’m still mad about it…

During school, my friends and I were obsessed with fantasy shows and novels, which has never faded. We used to have sleepovers, watch Buffy and Angel all night long. We also saw every Harry Potter in the cinema – at least a dozen times when they first came out and theorised about the ending of the books. I read the books so fast that I always knew the endings before everyone else, and everyone was mad when my sister told them that Dumbledore is murdered by Snape before anyone else got to it.

I started writing more seriously in 2010. During my first year at university, I had health issues and had to have an operation. In the following months of recovery, I was reading a lot and decided to write something. I was stuck indoors and so I wanted to do something more productive. I chose to start a fantasy novel, because that is what I loved. I had read The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, and I wanted to capture a modern world, but with a magical twist.

The Reign of the Occult was born. The first in The Occult Series, it’s a fast-paced urban fantasy. In the Mortal Realm, magic is outlawed and hunted by a mysterious and sinister organisation called The Occult. The protagonist is Prue, a girl who is cursed to see the future but never to change it. At the time, a female lead in a fantasy adventure was reasonably rare. The Hunger Games had just come out, which I loved, and the genre boomed following its release. Like me, a lot of writers followed suit and it’s much more mainstream now.

I took inspiration from Dante’s Inferno to create the 3 different worlds. I was studying history at university, so I’m really interested in myths and legends, and I included myths from all over the world to create the Demons in The Underworld and The Fae in The Overworld. The Occult in the Mortal Realm is grounded much more in reality – based on dictatorships I had studied, including The Third Reich. A big part of the story is the teenagers overcoming incredible odds to defeat evil. I absolutely love this theme in The Lord of the Rings, that you don’t need great power to overcome great evil.

The theme of teenagers fighting to reclaim their freedom and discover their own power, is present in all my stories. It’s something that comes from my own experiences, overcoming health issues and pushing through against the odds.

Following the original release of The Reign of the Occult, I was in a significant road accident, and I had ongoing injuries. I had to pause my plans to release the second book in the series, The Queen of the Underworld.

Since then, I’ve worked hard on my recovery. One, not to lose my day job. And two, to get The Queen of the Underworld completed. The editing was very difficult with my injuries, but I did not give up. I completed the edits and released the second book in 2024.

Now, I’m fighting fit and ready for my next series, The Tarot Series. The first novel is called The Book of Wands and it’s due for release in 2026. The protagonist, a girl named Olivia, inherits a Tarot Book following the death of her grandmother, which she claimed could predict Past, Present and Future… I picked a female protagonist, which I could relate most to, and had the Tarot Deck be passed down through the female line. I think it’s important for young women to understand and claim their own power.

Pieces I have removed from the main piece, placed here – keep these so that you can use in your newsletters and content marketing:

Her brother Everett is her protector – although he doesn’t possess any powers, he is street smart and savvy. The story is their journey through the 3 worlds – The Mortal Realm, The Underworld and The Overworld – fleeing from The Occult. My sister claims that Everett is based on my baby brother, Ben, but I did not realise that while I was writing it.

It took me about 8 years in total to finish The Reign of the Occult. I started working for a small company in HR, and eventually asked me to move over and build their security function from scratch. While personally I’m much more creative – interested in Art, History and English – my job is much more technical. I’m a Cyber Security Manager now in a role that is mostly dominated by men. It has been a successful career, and I’ve done the writing on the side. It was only during Covid, when I didn’t have to travel to work, that I had more time to work on the manuscript.

I finally decided I was going to finish a book if it killed me! Once I finished the first manuscript, and realised that I could finish one, the manuscripts that followed were much, much faster. In my mind, the writing has changed from a hobby to a job and now I treat it seriously. If it’s in my calendar, then I’ll do it.

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Lauren Louise Hazel is a Cyber Security Manager by day and
writes YA fantasy by night. She has one annoying brother and younger sister. As
she was growing up, the only item her dad would buy her without demanding her
pocket money was books. He’s hoping the writing is successful so he can get a
Ferrari!

Some of Lauren’s favourite books and influences include the
classics – like Lord of the Rings and The Hunger Games – and anything by Haruki
Murakami and GRR Martin.

Website * Facebook * Instagram * TikTok * Bookbub * Amazon
* Goodreads

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Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

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Enter The Occult Series Giveaway Here!

 

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

Living At The Edge Of The World By S. J. Barratt ~ Guest Post And Giveaway

Posted: March 7, 2026 in Action/Adventure, giveaways, Guest Post, middle grade
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Dive into a different world, where nature and friendship are
full of surprises.

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Living at the Edge of the World – Winter

The Papala Island Adventure Series Book 1

written by S. J. Barratt

narrated by Gill Mills

Genre: Middle Grade Eco Adventure

Twins Tabitha and Timothy leave London for a wild Shetland
island — no Wi-Fi, no friends, and a mysterious great-uncle. In Papala, they
discover a new way of life, unexpected friendships, and courage they never knew
they had.

A fun, eco-conscious story for ages 9–12 that the whole
family will love.

When their parents sail the world without them, 12-year-old
twins Tabitha and Timothy are sent to the remote island of Papala, known as the
“Bird Island.” Great Uncle Tamhas becomes their guardian in a world
as strange as the island itself.

Tabitha is frustrated with the island’s isolation and
limited Wi-Fi, but Timothy is delighted to uncover the island’s natural
secrets. The twins soon realise however, they are not the only newcomers to the
island.

Discover a story about courage, friendship and the joy of
embracing the unfamiliar. Dive into a different world, where nature and
friendship are full of surprises.

You’ll love this story of courage and friendship. Buy now
before the price changes!

Check out: https: //www.sjbstories.com to know more!

Get it in Audiobook!

Audible * Amazon ebook * Apple * Kobo * Bookbub * Goodreads

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  1. Can you, for those who don’t know you already, tell something about yourself and how you became an author?

 

“Living at the Edge of the World – Winter, the first audiobook in my Shetland island series, was inspired by my own outdoor childhood and by a desire to encourage today’s children to look up from their screens and rediscover adventure outside.”

I’m a British children’s author and I grew up with mud on my boots, dogs at my heels, and a book never far from reach. Raised in leafy green, Hertfordshire (North East direction from London) my childhood was split between outdoor adventure – riding ponies, building camps in the woods, cycling with friends – and disappearing into stories. Shy and introverted, I was happiest reading, often forming friendships around books, including quiet “reading clubs” where we sat together in companionable silence for hours at a time! As a teenager, reviewing books for my local library felt like a natural next step. Although I briefly considered journalism as a career, the fast pace and relentless deadlines didn’t seem to leave much room for reflection or empathy. I then trained as an actor, which was invaluable for learning how to analyse characters and bring them to life, skills that continue to shape my writing. I loved exploring the depth of roles, but I soon realized that the constant focus on self-promotion and performance wasn’t the right fit for me. Life then led me to France, where I’ve spent many years in corporate communications for agriculture and sustainable development—storytelling with purpose, in a quieter kind of spotlight.

Becoming a writer began as a personal writing project while I was recovering from an operation. I knew I wanted to write for children, inspired by the contrast between my own outdoor upbringing and how much time children today spend indoors, absorbed by screens.

I immersed myself in research and went in search of the perfect agricultural setting, eventually discovering the island of Foula, home to just thirty people who live closely with the land, sea, and animals in Shetland, Scotland. It felt like the ideal place to begin. From there, the real learning started, and the stories grew. Today, my writing aims to offer young readers and listeners a sense of freedom, resilience, and curiosity, while gently encouraging a healthier balance between the digital world and the natural one.

  1. What is something unique/quirky about you? 

Having two nationalities (Born in Pasadena, USA but to British parents) and living today in France, which adds a third culture, means I’ve never fully felt I belong in one place. That outsider perspective has become a strength in my writing, helping me create characters who are finding their footing in unfamiliar worlds and helping readers accept diversity and cultural differences.

  1. When did you first consider yourself a writer? 

I first considered myself a writer the moment my work was recognized beyond my own desk, earning its first placing in a writing competition. That turning point came in 2024, when my book received a Silver Medal at BookFest in the Children’s – Diversity & Multi-cultural category. Soon after, it was awarded a Bronze Medal at the Global Book Awards 2024 for Children’s – Geography & Culture, and in 2025 it became a *Finalist in the Children’s Book Excellence Awards. Those moments shifted my writing from a “project”, to becoming part of my identity as a “writer”.

  1. Which of your novels can you imagine being made into a movie?

I can easily imagine Living at the Edge of the World – Winter and the second book, Spring coming alive on screen, ideally not just as films, but as a gentle, episodic series for middle-grade children aged 9–12. The world of Papala, and the adventures of Tabitha and Timothy, lend themselves naturally to visual storytelling: the changing seasons, the closeness to nature, the quiet bravery of everyday exploration.

What excites me most, though, isn’t the idea of children sitting and watching for long stretches. I would only want a film or series if it actively encouraged them to step away from the screen afterward. Each episode could feel like an invitation. Prompting children to go outside, build a small camp in the woods, invent their own adventures, or take their dog for a walk and really notice the world around them.

  1. What literary pilgrimages have you gone on?

In October 2023 my son and I traveled to Shetland to hunt for the aurora borealis. We explored the mainland and the islands of Yell and Unst, hoping to see the northern lights. We weren’t lucky enough to catch the “pretty dancers,” as they call them in Shetland, but every day brought something beautiful – sunsets, rainbows, and interesting cloud formations. Watching otters play along the coast in Yell or climbing into a Viking boat on Unst was a joy in itself, and a reminder of how travel can spark creativity.

Last year I travelled to Sri Lanka to an Ayurveda retreat. It was a simple, focused holiday: time to care for my health, relax, and edit my third book. Having space to work on my writing while being somewhere special was such a gift to myself.

Both trips reminded me of the joy of discovering new places and the value of taking time for yourself. Whether exploring remote islands or spending quiet days writing, travel and new places can provide a space to refresh, reflect, and find inspiration.

  1. Tell us about your main characters- what makes them tick? 

One of the things I love most about writing this book series is exploring the dynamic between the twins, Tabitha and Timothy. They are so alike in some ways, yet completely different in others, and that contrast drives much of the story.

Tabitha is all about online validation and influencer dreams. She’s deeply connected to the world through screens and social media, and her character reflects the pull of that digital life. Timothy, on the other hand, “Wiki-Tim”, is grounded in curiosity and a love of nature. His fascination with facts and the natural world lets me bring in real-life information about the island and its wildlife without it feeling forced. This dynamic mirrors something I value personally: while I enjoy engaging with my online community, nothing restores the soul quite like a walk in nature.

The twins’ contrasting perspectives also highlight one of the broader themes of the book: adapting to new environments and finding joy in unexpected places. Timothy, with his naturalist mindset, adjusts easily to the remote island life. Tabitha, initially frustrated by the isolation, gradually discovers a niche that allows her to combine her love for social media with the adventure and discoveries the island offers. It’s a journey about embracing change, connecting with the world around you, and finding balance between digital and real-life experiences.

Through these characters, I wanted to show that even when two people, or twins, are very different, mutual respect, curiosity, and openness can lead to growth, adventure, and unexpected joy.

  1. Who designed your book covers? 

The book covers and all the illustrations for Living at the Edge of the World – Winter were created by the incredibly talented young illustrator Jenny Nutbourne, who lives and works in Scotland. https://www.tiktok.com/@nutbourne_ Our connection came through Dundee University, where my son did his degree.

I’m a very visual person, and for me, images are an essential part of the creative process. When I start a project, I often look for pictures that capture the essence of my characters or the world they inhabit. Working with Jenny brought these images to life, enhancing the storytelling in ways that words alone sometimes have limitations. Her illustrations not only complement the text but also provide inspiration and a visual anchor for the story, making the world I’ve written about feel even more real. Working with Jenny is also a a reason why I went the self-publishing route as an author as I wanted full creative control.

  1. Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book? 

One of the biggest challenges in writing my recent book was making sure the children truly drove the story. I wanted the kids to take center stage, shaping the action, while the adults remained in the background, present enough to make the world feel realistic, but never so much that they overshadowed the young characters.

For the main antagonist, Tabitha, I started her as a spoiled, unhappy girl, frustrated at being stuck in Papala, a remote island in Shetland, far from trendy London. In the first book, her character arc showed her learning to adapt to this rugged new life. The second book pushes that growth even further, while also giving her brother, Timothy, a chance to shine. The third book, which hopefully will be published later this year, explores Tabitha’s character even more, teaching her not to rush to act but to speak up with thoughtful action.

Beyond the twins, there are two other key young characters: Fenella, a local girl who offers insight and guidance, and Omar, a newly arrived refugee who immediately connects with the island’s wildlife. Each brings a unique perspective, but the core challenge remains: how to let the children have their own adventures in a believable way.

I drew inspiration from authors like Enid Blyton and Katherine Rundell, who are experts at creating rich, child-led worlds where young characters are fully in charge.

  1. Anything specific you want to tell your readers? 

Yes! I want readers to know that even though my books have an eco-fiction theme and encourage your children, grandchildren, or students to spend more “green time” rather than screen time, the stories are far from dull. They’re modern, full of fun, and packed with adventure.

A recent reviewer described how she and her son “learned by stealth” while reading about the twins, Tabitha and Timothy. They were so caught up in what would happen next in the story, they absorbed all kinds of fascinating facts about Shetland’s wildlife and flora without even noticing!

I also hope readers gain a better understanding of how farming can work in harmony with nature. Agro-ecology is all about balance, which is especially important in crofting in Scotland, where every bit of land matters. The books show that adventure, learning, and environmental awareness can go hand in hand.

  1. How did you come up with the name of this book? 

The inspiration came from reading about the Shetland island of Foula, which I found utterly fascinating. It’s one of the most remote islands in the archipelago, home to just 30 people, and is also famously known as the “Bird Island.” The island’s wild, rugged beauty and sense of isolation perfectly captured the atmosphere I wanted for the book, and it is known as the “End of the World”. This name seemed to fit naturally with the story, even if I based the series on an imaginary island called Papala.

  1. If you could spend time with a character from your book, who would it be? And what would you do during that day? 

I’d love to spend a day with Great Uncle Tamhas, who looks after the twins for three months while their parents are away on a world cruise. I can imagine a day on his croft, helping him with the kale planting, fishing for trout in the stream, and even cutting peat to keep the fires burning.

After a day of hard work, I’d sit down to one of his farmhouse meals, starting with a bowl of soup and fresh homemade bread, followed by his famous mutton stew. There’s something so comforting about the rhythm of croft life, and I can’t think of a better way to spend a day immersed in the island’s traditions, landscape, and food.

 

  1. Convince us why you feel your book is a must read. 

I wrote this book because I wanted to inspire kids to step away from screens and rediscover the joy of the world around them. In a time when phones and tablets seem to rule, my story invites young readers to see that adventure isn’t just something on a screen. Adventure is out there waiting for children in the woods, along a bike path, or even in their own backyard. Through fun, imaginative stories, my book gives kids agency, the exciting knowledge that they can create their own adventures, whether it’s just riding their bike, or exploring with their dog. It’s not just a story; it’s an invitation to play, explore, and connect with nature in a way that will stay with them long after the last page is turned.

A review from Australia said recently: “Books like this are still very important. It should be on every family’s book shelves. Not only will these stories  encourage kids to become readers, Living at the Edge of the World – Winter & Spring help kids learn and realise that living without their phones is also an adventure.”

  1. Have you written any other books that are not published? 

Yes! I’m currently working on the third book in this series: Living at the Edge of the World – Summer, which is shaping up to be an exciting mix of myth and environmental awareness. It follows the same team of characters, alongside selkies – mythical seals that shed their skins to become human on land. Through their story, I explore marine pollution and the importance of protecting our oceans as well as our livelihoods. The selkies act as a symbol of care and responsibility, showing young readers how thoughtful, deliberate actions, rather than rash decisions, can make a real difference. It’s a story full of wonder, adventure, and inspiration, encouraging kids to engage with the world around them and how small voices can make big waves when you speak up for what matters.

  1. If your book had a candle, what scent would it be?

I love this question!  It reminds me of the book – The Storm Keeper’s island by Catherine Doyle, where a different candle was needed for each episode of time travel. If my books were a candle, the scent would shift with the seasons: Winter would be peat fires, the comforting aroma of home-cooked soup, bread and bannocks. Spring would carry sea salt spray and the fresh scent of rain on green grass full of spring flowers. Summer would smell of warm earth, sun-dried fields, berries and rhubarb and the intoxicating smell of outdoor adventures. Autumn? The tang of wind off the waves, hints of the first peat fires and root vegetables roasting in the oven… and a book that is not written yet!

Audiobook Questions:

  1. What made you decide to get the book made into an audiobook?

I realised that so many people are busy and don’t always have time to sit down and read, and having studied acting myself, I know how much a good narrator can bring a story to life – just as an illustrator does for a printed book. So creating an audiobook felt like a natural and complementary way to share my stories. Also a great way for a family to share the story during a road trip!

https://canopyaudiobooks.com/

  1. Who did the narration on the audiobook and what made you choose them?

When it came to choosing the narrator, I was lucky to find Gill Mills at Canopybooks. Gill is the owner of the company and auditioned for the narration alongside other actresses who could narrate with a light Scottish accent. From the start, it was clear she was the perfect fit. She threw herself into the work, shutting herself away for days at a time to ensure the voices of each character stayed consistent. Every character has their own unique intonation and accent, and she brings them all vividly to life.

Because I’m a trained actor, the idea of narrating the audiobook did cross my mind, but I quickly realised I wouldn’t even come close to her ankles, let alone fill her shoes! I feel incredibly fortunate to have found Gill and Canopybooks. I honestly cannot recommend them highly enough to authors considering an audiobook. Gill will bring your stories to life in a way that is truly magical at a very reasonable price.

  1. How many audiobooks do you currently have and are there any more on the horizon?

I have two audiobooks published: Living at the Edge of the World – Winter & Spring and when the third book is published, I will of course ask Gill if she wants to narrate the third!  I just hope she will say, “Yes! I would like another trip to the island of Papala!”

  1. Do you have a favorite scene from the audiobook? What makes it special?

The final chapter is definitely my favorite. It’s where the themes of courage, friendship, and embracing the unfamiliar come together in a thrilling way. The three children face a pivotal moment that tests their bravery. Tabitha, the protagonist, takes a bold risk that puts herself and her brother and friend Fenella in real danger.

I don’t want to give too much away, but I will say this: there are Vikings involved… and a burning viking boat! It’s a scene full of tension, teamwork, and adventure, and it perfectly captures the heart of the story. It also reflects my own belief that true friendship and courage often shine brightest when we step into the unknown and we accept cultural differences.

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S. J. Barratt is a self-published, professionally edited
children’s author whose eco-themed stories celebrate the connection between
people and the natural world. Rooted in an English countryside upbringing and
shaped by a career in agriculture, she blends a gardener’s curiosity with a
storyteller’s warmth to her writing. Now based in Lyon, France, Suzanne creates
tales that inspire middle-grade readers to swap screen time for green time—and
rediscover the wonders waiting just outside their door.

Website * Facebook *Instagram * TikTok * Bookbub * Goodreads

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A former BBC broadcaster and journalist, Gill Mills brings
over 20 years of experience in entertainment to her narration. Known for her
warm, resonant voice, she began her voice career while DJing on BBC Radio 1 and
has since voiced numerous TV and audio productions. She now runs a content
company specialising in podcast and film production from her studio in East
London.

LinkedIn* Instagram

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Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

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Enter the Living at the Edge of the World – Winter Giveaway Here

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

Land Of Two Moons By D. L. Gardner ~ Guest Post And Giveaway

Posted: March 4, 2026 in Action/Adventure, giveaways, Guest Post, YA
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Political unrest, war over valuable mines, forbidden love,
and a homesick dragon bound in chains threaten the land of two moons.

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Land of Two Moons

by D.L. Gardner

Genre: YA Epic SciFi Fantasy Adventure

“The gritty
reality of trench warfare and the smoky chaos of riots is striking in D. L.
Gardner’s Land of Two Moons…a rich and ambitious fantasy novel that
successfully builds a world trembling on the brink of magical and political
upheaval. This is a delicate, intricate novel that rewards patient
reading.” – Independent Book Review

Arthur and Hallie are twin siblings, son and daughter of the
Duke of Lodesmoor. Humble teenagers who befriend the village people and
sympathize with their grievances. Their father, Lord Balmier, whose duchy is
approaching financial collapse, uses his subjects as pawns in a battle over a
string of valuable mines.

Lord Balmier sees his son’s sympathy toward the serfs as an
alliance against him and soon acts to squelch Arthur’s sedition.

Hallie clings to a forbidden love, and both siblings must
resist their father’s harsh rule.

All the while they are unaware that their mother keeps a
mystical dragon named Killian, bound in chains by a spell, whose fate will
affect them all.

As the twin moons approach a rare and magical eclipse,
alliances shift, secrets unravel, and Arthur and Hallie must choose between
loyalty, freedom, and sacrifice to save their people and themselves.

 

“With strong
pacing and a cast of memorable characters – including a homesick dragon, this
is the perfect book for fans of the ‘fantasy’ genre. Highly recommended!” – The
Wishing Shelf

***Check
out the kickstarter campaign!**

Amazon * B&N * Books2Read

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Land of Two Moons will be a limited edition leather
hardcover signed and numbered, a special edition case laminate hardcover, an
eBook, and a paperback with printed edges. A rigid slip case is available for
the hardcovers.

***Check out the kickstarter campaign!**

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Prologue

     Pattin didn’t know what they were fighting for. All he
knew was that when their commander yelled the order he was to let loose his
arrows toward another trench opposite theirs somewhere in the Red Sands desert.
Rumor was they were fighting over mines, dukes, power, and money. Nothing he’d
ever be privy to. It didn’t matter. He was here because he’d been conscripted.

He’d been in this trench for nine days straight. Hot,
drenched in sweat, sick to his stomach, and with little to eat or drink. Tired
of swatting flies and stepping over the bodies of his comrades, he was ready to
leave. No one wanted to be here, especially not the lads from Bidsworth, and
especially not on the front lines.

He spat the dust out of his mouth and bit another piece
of jerky.

“When is she going to come for us?” he asked his
friend.

“Tonight, they said. Maybe,” Ivan whispered.

“What do you mean, maybe? She promised.”

“She can only take five at a time.”

“Bloody Marks, she’s been here every night for a week.
What’s she going to do, get everyone but us? The more people who leave, the
less chance of survival for those who stay. I’m too young to die in this rat
hole.”

Ivan shrugged—a hint that he wasn’t happy about the
situation either.

“We could try and make a run for it on our own,” Pattin
whispered, his lips barely moving, glancing around the desolate countryside.

Over the sand, the heat waves danced, crafting a mirage
of water, a deceptive illusion that only a fool would pursue. Bait for the
enemy. Pattin licked his lips, wishing for a drink of cool water from the
springs in Bidsworth, his homeland, a wealthy duchy whose stone structures
mirrored the color of the red earth. Here in the wasteland, iron ore poisoned
the vegetation, and there was nothing but dust as far as the horizon. The
soldiers hated this place, and rumors of desertion were burning the ears of the
agents at base. The officers were watching the troops like hawks.

“Fool. We’d have bolts in our backs, dead. Is that what
you want? If I’m going to desert, I’m doing it with Kezia.” Ivan wiped the
sweat from his brow; his face caked with red earth. Even his eyelashes were
laden with dirt.

“What makes her so special that she can get us out with
no one noticing?”

Ivan snickered and glared at him. “She’s the duke’s
daughter, remember? Plus, she’s smart, crafty, and wicked.”

“Duke sabotages his own army through his daughter!”
Pattin mumbled.

“Stop complaining or she’ll never come and get you.”

Pattin wiped his brow, his mouth fixed in a frown. She
might not come for him at all. It’s everyone else’s luck to be saved by a
duchess.

“Heads up!” The dreaded warning arrived just
as a flurry of bolts blotted out the sun.

Pattin covered his head with his shield. Ivan lifted
his own targe to cover his body while the plummeting projectiles thundered on
it.

“Move!” came the command.

Like a terrified beetle, Pattin crouched on the ground
and joined the others, locking his shield with Ivan’s as the company crawled
through the trench, hands and knees bleeding, while avoiding the corpses of
friends who didn’t survive. Away from the onslaught they moved, abandoning
their supplies. Someone would be sent back for them when the sun settled on the
horizon and the two moons rose.

Soon everyone here would have to leave the trenches and
charge at the enemy. That was a standard maneuver, and it was just a matter of
time. Hand to hand combat would kill him, Pattin was certain. With practiced
ease, he could loose an arrow, always striking the mark. But his end would come
by the cold steel of a sword. He hoped it would be tomorrow. He wasn’t ready to
die today.

Maybe Kezia would draw his name and come for him
tonight. Maybe he would live through this bloody war, after all.

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What kind of world ruler would you be?

Ha! This is a loaded question. Thank you, Silver Dagger Blog Tour for posing it to me.

Shall I start my campaign now? Or should I wait until the deep freeze?

In all honesty, I would probably be the worst world leader ever. But then, you can’t be a leader unless someone follows you and I was never very successful at having more than a cluster of children running along behind me.

Why wouldn’t I be a good leader?

  • I can’t hear very well. My husband and I spend more time saying “What?” than having a real conversation.
  • My voice doesn’t carry. I’ve been to book events and said “Hello” to a dozen people and they walk on by.
  • I hate talking in front of an audience. So much, I stutter. I was in a play in high school once. I was the Countess in You Can’t Take it With You. I looked really pretty in this gorgeous dress with a shiny tiara in my hair. I was so nervous I forgot all my lines. It was embarrassing and everyone was mad at me. I never got cast in another part again, thank goodness.
  • I find it difficult making a decision. Just the other day I was ordering something from a home-based business, and I changed my mind so many times I flooded them with emails. No one knew what I was ordering.
  • When I do make a decision, I think about it afterwards until I conclude I made the wrong decision. Then it’s too late and then I feel guilty.
  • I don’t fly. If I had to go to a country overseas, I’d have to take a cruise boat. That would hold up a few meetings, I think.
  • As far as the campaign? I detest competition. Once they started slandering me, I’d drop out. I’m not much of a soldier. I am certainly not officer material. I can think of having a backbone. I give my characters in my stories plenty of valor and honor. It’s all wannabe for me. I have inner strength, but rarely does it show outwardly. Unless I’m mad. Then everyone hides.

So. In conclusion, please do not nominate me for world leader. I don’t even want to tell them how to do their job!

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D.L. Gardner is an
award-winning author, artist, filmmaker, and screenwriter with over 28
published works to her credit. Writing and painting are her passions and
fantasy her forte. When she’s not pounding keys on the computer, she’s canning
salsa, picking apples, listening to the voices of critters in the woods, or
watching flowers grow. She loves visiting far-off lands through books by both
reading and writing.

Her genres include all fantasy, historical, and mystery.

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Get to know D.L. through her websites and blogs or send her a message her on Kickstarter.

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Currently a FINALIST (2025 March) in
the Cannes World Wide Film Festival for her screen adaption of her book An
Unconventional Mr. Peadlebody.

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Other awards include Wishing
Shelf book Award 2023 for audio, B.R.A.G. Award 2022 for the Cho Nisi series,
Book Excellence Award 2019 and 2015 for Ian’s Realm and Cassandra’s Castle.
Best Screenplay adaptation from her book Dylan at the Paris Screenplay Awards,
Mile Hill International Screenplay Awards, L.A. Edge Awards, European
Cinematography Awards, and Moondance Film Festival. Best Screenplay Award for
adaptation from her book An Unconventional Mr. Peadlebody at Veers Film
Festival, Best Screenplay Award for adaptation of Ian’s Realm at the Twin Falls
Sandwiches Film Festival and many more.

  

Website * Newsletter * Facebook * Instagram * Bookbub * Goodreads

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Follow the tour HERE for special content and a $20 giveaway!

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Enter the Land of Two Moons Giveaway Here

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

Bait The Devil By Winter Austin ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway

Posted: February 16, 2026 in giveaways, thriller, Trailer, Western
Tags: , , ,
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Bait the Devil by Winter Austin Banner

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BAIT THE DEVIL
by Winter Austin
February 2 – March 13, 2026 Virtual Book Tour

 

 

Synopsis:
A BOUNTY OF SHADOWS

 

In bounty hunting, clean jobs are a myth. Dot knows—she’s seen the blood.

Dot Ybarra doesn’t bluff. Fresh into her bounty hunting career, she’s already earning a reputation for results. But when a “routine” rogue bounty—taken as a favor to her lawyer cousin—turns lethal, she’s staring down a case with international reach, bodies in its wake, and the stench of power. Her business partner, T.J. Roman, is hiding a secret. If Dot finds out … well, she can’t find out. It would end the effective partnership they’ve built. But the trail won’t wait. What should have been a clean pickup of a fellow military veteran spirals into a hunt through the shadows, where one wrong move could see them both buried in an unmarked grave. To stop the predators at the center of a violent trafficking ring, they’ll have to go straight into its core—and make themselves the bait. Every step makes them vulnerable to each other as well. The devil’s coming for them. Dot plans to be the one still standing after he bites.

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Bait the Devil Trailer:

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Book Details:

Genre: Modern Western Thriller

Published by: Tule Mystery Publication Date: January 19, 2026 Number of Pages: 285 ISBN: 9781969218651 (ISBN10: 1969218657) Series: A BOUNTY OF SHADOWS, Book 2 {Amazon, Tule}

Book Links: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes & Noble | Apple Books | Goodreads | BookBub | Tule Mystery

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Enjoy this peek inside:
From Chapter 1
Two hours later, they had managed to corral the quickly sobering Freddy into the back of the Suburban, with no more eventful chases, and turn him over to the county jail. Freddy’s bail bondsman paid out their fair share of the bond and a huge tip after some hard pressing on T.J.’s part about the circumstances leading up to Freddy’s apprehension. Once the check was cashed, a celebratory late lunch at one of the best Basque eateries Dot had found in Boise was the best way to top off a successful day of bounty hunting. Parked behind the Bar Gernika, she and T.J. sat in the back end of the Chevy Suburban with the hatch up eating chorizo sandwiches with smoked cod croquetas and a bowl of green olives dripping in garlic olive oil. Dot slurped down half of her Coke, then shook the ice in her cup. T.J. pointed the remains of his smoked beef chorizo at her. “We should register for the SHOT show in Vegas.” “Why?” “Because we can.” T.J. pulled his duh face. Dot rolled her eyes and bit into her sandwich. “Have you ever been there?” T.J. asked. She shook her head, wiping smokey chorizo juice from the corner of her mouth. “The woman raised to be a hunter and a firearms collector has never been to the great SHOT show?” He lowered his reflective sunglasses and eyed her over the top of the rims. “Never?” “You do realize my family wasn’t made of money.” Dot popped one of the croquetas into her mouth. “And that’s in the dead of winter, when we couldn’t just up and run off while we were in the middle of lambing season.” “All the more reason you should go now.” T.J. grinned. “A lot of the best bounty hunters meet up there.” Dot scowled at her partner and sometimes bunk buddy. “Lemme guess. You wanna show off your shiny new partner to the boys?” “Maybe.” His grin turned devilish. “Or maybe I wanna see you kick their asses.” Dot wadded up the sandwich wrapper and chucked it at T.J.’s head. “I’m not a toy.” The crumbled ball of waxed paper bounced off his forehead and landed on the Suburban floor between them. “Really? Then why are you so easy to wind up?” “You sonofa—” Dot lunged for his throat but was quickly subdued. Their moment of levity was interrupted by a shrill ring from T.J.’s phone. “Damn it,” he snapped and patted down his body in search for his cell. Dot found it lying on the makeshift floor behind his hulking frame. She snatched it up and checked the screen. She batted her eyelashes at T.J. “Don’t you dare,” he snarled. She pressed the green icon to answer the call. “Well, hello, cousin dearest.” Lawyer-extraordinaire and covert purveyor of information, Vivian Montgomery was Dot’s second cousin. And apparently had earned a spot on T.J.’s contact list under the moniker of Hot Ass Lawyer. “Dot? When did you start taking business calls?” Vivian asked, her brisk tone underscored by the sound of her heavy breathing. “What are you doing?” Dot asked. “You sound like you’re saving the horse and riding a cowboy.” “Oh, grow up. I’m on a treadmill. Put T.J. on the phone.” “You shouldn’t run on those things. They destroy your knees and back,” Dot chided. “When I want health advice from a cigar smoker who jumps from helicopters for fun, I’ll call.” “I don’t jump from the helo. Unless it’s crashing. Even then, that’s sketchy shit.” T.J., giving a rumbling growl, jerked the phone from Dot, and pressed it to his ear. “Vivian, what do you need?” He waited a moment, then with another low growl, pulled the phone from his ear and put it on speaker. “You’re on speaker.” “I need a huge favor from the two of you.” “When you say huge favor, how huge are we talking?” Dot asked. “You know, I think I liked you better when you were a brooding, isolated eremite whose main goal in life was equal parts trying to piss off her mother and keep her out of trouble,” Vivian shot back. “Love you too, coz.” “Now shut up and let me finish.” The whining sound of the treadmill belt slowing echoed over the phone connection. “I just got a call from one of my colleagues. She had a client fail to appear today.” “Shouldn’t the defendant’s bail bondsman be calling us?” T.J. asked. “It’s … complicated.” Dot smiled as T.J. groaned. “Vivian, every time you rope us into one of your firm’s problems with their unruly children, we’re out money, time, and patience. We’re called bounty hunters for a reason. Bounty is in the name.” “Roman, if you keep up the condescending behavior, I’ll expose your dirty little secret.” “Dirty secret, huh,” Dot piped in. “What’s that?” He thrust a finger at her nose. “None of your business. Vivian, if you so much as breathe out of line, I’ll make you regret it.” “Will you do me the favor?” T.J. stared at Dot, who shrugged as if to say, Why not? “Fine. Mark my words, I’ll be cashing in on this huge favor sooner than you think.” “I wouldn’t have bothered you with this, expect the guy is a veteran, and you two being veterans yourself, I figured he’d be more likely to work with you than anyone else.” “What’s on his file?” Dot asked. “That’s the complicated part. Officially, his file says he was picked up a third time for carrying with the intent to sell. Unofficially, he’s … classified.” Dot frowned as she and T.J. locked eyes. As a former army ranger who spent a lot of time flying in and out of forward operating bases in Afghanistan, T.J. knew all about classified situations. Dot, as the main helicopter pilot shuttling him and his team back and forth, though never read in on his actual missions, typically was under strict orders of her own. “Vivian, I’m not getting fuzzy feelings about this,” T.J. said. “Neither am I. It’s why I’m calling the two of you in. The judge wants to issue a bench warrant. My colleague was able to ask for a delay before it’s submitted. She was given three hours to present her client or the warrant is released. If you’d rather, you could consider this job PI work instead of fugitive recovery.” The shingle hanging outside their business office did say private investigators. At this point, that title belonged to T.J. and T.J. alone. “Still not selling me on this,” he said. “If there’s no bench warrant, there’s no cash for catching him.” “Hang on.” Vivian spoke to someone, her voice muffled, then she was back. “The firm will pay you a finder’s fee.” T.J. continued to stare at Dot. She could sense what he was thinking. He was torn. Take this off-the-cuff job and cash in on the favor department with Vivian to help a fellow veteran? Or say fuck it and play hooky for the rest of the day like he’d planned? Dot didn’t really have much of a say in the business dealings of their partnership since she was eight months into the training phase as a fugitive recovery agent and she wasn’t a licensed PI. It didn’t stop T.J. from pressing her for her opinion, who argued that, because she was about to start taking bounties on her own, she needed to take the reins more often. “If it helps you make a decision, I’ve got his last known address and a phone number along with a photo,” Vivian said. “This won’t be a hard catch.” “Stop saying that. Every time you tell me it’s an easy one, it turns into a disaster,” T.J. snarled. “He’s right,” Dot added. “Okay, I retract my statement. But, please say yes. Huge favor to me. I’ll do anything.” “Anything?” Dot glared at him. “Within reason,” Vivian shot back. “We’ll do it,” Dot said, tired of T.J.’s runaround. “Send us the four-one-one, and we’ll go check it out.” T.J. glared at her; his dark eyes flashed a warning. Dot returned his glare with a smug look of her own that dared him to bring it. “Thank you, coz. Hurry. There’s only two hours left before the bench warrant goes out. Then it’ll be a free-for-all.” “You couldn’t have called us about this an hour ago?” T.J. groused. “Shut your yap, Roman,” Vivian said. “There. Info sent.” His phone dinged. “His name is Cade Porter. He was a staff sergeant in the Marine Corps.” Vivian sucked in a breath. “Oooh.” “Oooh, what?” T.J. insisted. “If this is right, he was in an artillery unit.” “Oh my God.” T.J. groaned. Dot grinned. Not only did acting on a favor for Vivian chafe T.J. in the chaps, but doing it for a Marine with explosives expertise was going to make that chafe burn. Throughout their long, storied history, there had always been a deep-seated friendly animosity between the army and the Marines. Push came to shove, however, they still had each other’s backs. “If that crayon eater blows us up, I’m going to haunt you,” he said. “I look forward to the visits. Now get going.” Vivian ended the call. T.J. shoved his phone in a side pocket of his cargo pants. “Tell me again why we let Vivian help us out?” “Because,” Dot said as she scooted out of the SUV’s backend, “she’s good for the money. And I trust her intel more than I would some of your bail bondsmen.” “You say that because you’re biased.” “Nire familia da. Garrantzitsua da.” T.J. paused before closing the hatch. “I speak Pashto, Arabic, some Spanish, and Oklahoman. I do not speak Basque.” Dot chuckled. “Time to learn, Danger Ranger.” “Load up and let’s roll.” *** Excerpt from Bait the Devil by Winter Austin. Copyright 2026 by Winter Austin. Reproduced with permission from Winter Austin. All rights reserved.

 

 

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About Author Winter Austin:

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Winter Austin

Winter Austin perpetually answers the question: “were you born in the winter?” with a flat “nope,” but believe her, there is a story behind her name. A lifelong Mid-West gal with strong ties to the agriculture world, Winter grew up listening to the captivating stories told by relatives around a table or a campfire. As a published author, she learned her glass half-empty personality makes for a perfect suspense/thriller writer. Taking her ability to verbally spin a vivid and detailed story, Winter translated that into writing deadly romantic suspense, mysteries, and thrillers. When she’s not slaving away at the computer, you can find Winter supporting her daughter in cattle shows, seeing her three sons off into the wide-wide world, loving on her fur babies, prodding her teacher husband, and nagging at her flock of hens to stay in the coop or the dogs will get them. She is the author of multiple novels.

Catch Up With Winter Austin:

AuthorWinterAustin.com Amazon Author Profile Goodreads BookBub – @WinterAustin Instagram – @iasuspensewriter Facebook – @author.winteraustin

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Tour Participants:

Click through the other tour stops for can’t-miss reviews, insider interviews, exclusive guest posts, and more chances to win! Click here to view the Tour Schedule  

 

Saddle Up & Win: Autographed Winter Austin Novel + Gift Card
This giveaway is hosted by Partners in Crime Tours for Winter Austin. See the widget for entry terms and conditions. Void where prohibited.

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BAIT THE DEVIL by Winter Austin | Gift Card & Book Can’t see the giveaway? Click Here!

Get More Great Reads at Partners In Crime Tours

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

Shadowed Skies By Haley Cavanagh ~ Guest Post And Giveaway

Posted: April 14, 2025 in Dystopian, giveaways, Guest Post, YA Fantasy
Tags: , , , ,
22

 

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His mountain solitude shattered.

Her lab prison escaped.

Together they’ll find refuge or die trying.

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Shadowed Skies

by Haley Cavanagh

Genre: YA Clean Dystopian SciFi Fantasy Romance

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Hunted for their blood. Fighting for their future.

River

He’s the last of his kind, a winged warrior
hidden in the mountains. River Shaw has lost everything: his sanctuary, the
only shield from a world that fears and hunts him. When Delene, another of his
kind, crash-lands into his life, wounded and on the run, his solitude is
shattered.

Delene

She’s a fugitive
with a secret, escaping the clutches of dark forces that took everything from
her. Delene Fairborne’s flight to freedom leads her to River and the spark of a
bond neither can deny.

In a landscape
scarred by betrayal and danger, River and Delene must navigate their growing
feelings and the sinister scientist who will stop at nothing to harness their
power. Shadowed Skies is where love takes wing, hope soars, and destiny
entwines. Dive into a world where every heartbeat is a rebellion, every glance
a promise, and every flight a taste of freedom.

Amazon * B&N * Betterworld Books * BAM * CollectiveInk * Thriftbooks * WalMart *  Goodreads

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I wake to a muscular, silent figure looming over me, his wings
casting unnerving shadows. Intelligent dark eyes scrutinize
me from his smooth, brown face framed by cropped black hair
and raven quills. He’s been around the block.
My guard shoots up. I’d stand, but my body’s too weak from
the climb. “Your nest, huh? Sorry, I didn’t see your name on it.”
“It’s carved right over there.” He points past me to the
rockface. My eyes travel over the stone, where he’d etched River
in craggy letters. The carved name is so tiny I didn’t notice.
“Now you’re supposed to tell me your name. That’s how this
goes.”
I blink. “Delene Fairborne. Listen, would you mind if I––
ow,” I scrape against the wall and suck air through my teeth. I
clamp my eyes shut.
“Are you okay?”
I shrug the blanket off, and my injured wing flops lamely
near my shoulder. River’s eyebrows lower, and he comes closer.
“Let me look.”
He stows his serrated hunting knife, presents empty hands,
and crouches to examine my injury. “Relax. I won’t hurt you.
Let’s see the damage.” He’s gentle, avoiding the wound and
handling my feathers softly. He lightly touches the bandage.
“Dr. Lytle runs the Stockade, the underground bunker and
lab where the humans imprison and experiment on our kind.
His men hunted me down and shot me with a crossbow as I tried
to escape. The wound is still healing––I changed the bandage
earlier, but without a spare set of clothes, I had to tear strips off
my pants to re-dress it.”

“Hmm.” He examines the back with a frown. “There’s an
exit wound.”
“Yeah, I pulled it out.”
“Well, that was stupid of you. You could have died if those
goons pierced a blood feather.”
My temper flares. “Oh, as opposed to leaving it in. I’d rather
take my chances, thanks.” My voice is hostile, though I’m
grateful for his help. I still don’t know who he is or what he
wants, and my mother warned me to be on my guard.
River sits back on his haunches, sighs, and meets my eyes.
“Doesn’t look good. How long have you been here, kid? A day
or so?”
“I’m no kid. I’m seventeen.”
“Well, I’m eighteen. So, you’re a kid.”
“By what, a few whole months?” I snicker. “Okay. If a kid
free-climbed in the pitch-black up a hundred-foot cliff to get
here, I guess I’m a kid.”
After examining the wound, he says, “The damage looks
fixable. Let’s clean this well to prevent infection.”
“I’ve cleaned the wound.”
“Clean deeper,” he admonishes. “I don’t have antibiotics, but
I’ll try to get some. Or at least honey. Honey heals.”
He hesitates before retrieving water, then takes a rag from
his pouch and soaks the cloth. With the knife still in hand, he
comes closer.
“Look … You seem all right, but I’m a lone wolf. I operate
solo. You have a target with a big ‘X’ on your back. I feel bad for
you. I do. But you know how it is with our kind.” He gives me
a blatant look, so here’s your cue to leave.
“Gee, I’d kindly vacate the premises, but I can’t fly.”
He rubs the back of his neck, agitated. “The valley’s full of
drones. And they’ve got at least a dozen soldiers combing the
forest.”

“I’m sorry.” I shift my eyes down. “You never asked for any
of this.”
“None of us did,” he waves me off. “The soldiers are here.
I’m screwed either way.” He pauses and assesses me. “Stay the
night. Then after that, I’m sorry, but you need to find somewhere
else to hide.”
The night might be all I need. “Thank you.”

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Behind the Scenes: The Inspiration for Shadowed Skies

Every story has an origin, and Shadowed Skies was no exception. This novel was born out of a mix of inspiration, personal experience, and a love for dystopian adventure with a touch of the fantastical. Today, I’m taking you behind the scenes to explore how this story came to life—from its first spark of an idea to the fully realized world of the Evol-humans.

  • The Spark of an Idea

The first whispers of Shadowed Skies emerged during NaNoWriMo 2019. At the time, life was a whirlwind of responsibilities, and most of my writing sessions took place in the carpool lane while waiting for my kids. It was during those stolen moments that River and Delene’s world began to take shape. I wanted to write a story that blended high-stakes survival with the emotional depth of identity, freedom, and resistance.

  • Wings, Science, and the Ethics of Experimentation

I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of science and ethics, particularly the unintended consequences of genetic experimentation. What if human beings were engineered for a purpose—only to be discarded when that purpose no longer suited their creators? This question became the foundation of Shadowed Skies and the plight of the Evol-humans. Designed as super-soldiers with avian DNA, they were meant to be resilient, capable of thriving in extreme environments. But as history often repeats, humanity fears what it does not understand. The same people who created the Evol-humans turned on them, leading to their persecution, imprisonment, and fight for survival.

  • A World Shaped by Dystopian Influences

I’ve always been drawn to dystopian fiction, from classics like 1984 and Brave New World to modern YA series like The Hunger Games and The Darkest Minds. These stories highlight resilience in the face of oppression, a theme that resonated deeply with me. However, I wanted to add a unique twist—rather than a purely tech-driven future, Shadowed Skies introduces an evolutionary shift, where biology itself becomes both a weapon and a weakness.

  • Survival in the Wild

Much of Shadowed Skies is set in rugged, mountainous landscapes, inspired by the breathtaking wilderness of Utah. I wanted to capture the raw beauty and danger of the wild—how nature can be both a sanctuary and a merciless force. River, one of the main characters, has learned to live off the land, a skill that not only defines his character but also plays a crucial role in the survival of those like him.

  • Characters with Heart and Struggle

At its core, this story is about two people who refuse to be caged—literally and figuratively. River, haunted by loss and determined to stay hidden, must confront his past and decide if he will fight for more than just his own survival. Delene, who has suffered unimaginable losses, refuses to let fear break her spirit. Their journey is one of trust, resilience, and ultimately, hope.

  • The Journey from Draft to Publication

Like any novel, Shadowed Skies went through multiple drafts, revisions, and deep dives into worldbuilding. Thanks to an incredible editorial team and supportive readers, the story transformed into what it is today—a thrilling blend of action, suspense, and heart.

  • Final Thoughts

Writing Shadowed Skies was an adventure, one that challenged me in ways I never expected. I hope readers find themselves lost in this world, rooting for River and Delene as they navigate a future shaped by both humanity’s cruelty and its potential for redemption.

Thank you for joining me on this behind-the-scenes look at Shadowed Skies! I’d love to hear from you—what are your favorite dystopian worlds, and what elements make them unforgettable to you?

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Haley Cavanagh is
a military veteran, wife, and mother. She was awarded the League of Utah
Writers 2020 Silver Quill Award for Retaliation, the second novel in her
Oceanstone Initiative series. Haley is an alumna of Columbia College, a musical
theater nut, and she loves to dive into any book that crosses her path. Haley
resides with her family in the United States and enjoys spending time with her
husband and children when she’s not writing. She loves to hear from her readers
and encourages you to contact her via her website and social media.

Website * Facebook
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Devil In The Desert By Russell James ~ Guest Post And Giveaway

Posted: October 29, 2024 in giveaways, Guest Post, Historical, horror
Tags: , ,
4
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In 1942, Major Ray
Hawkins must assemble a unit of civilians and military to keep the Nazis from
releasing a desert djinn against the Allied forces in North Africa. They will
have to employ conventional warfare and unconventional witchcraft to accomplish
the mission.

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Devil in the Desert

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Office of Supernatural Directives Book 1

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by Russell James

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Genre: Historical Horror

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It is 1942 and a
secret group within the Nazi SS is on the hunt for objects of the occult,
hoping to harvest their power for wonder weapons to win the war. Its leader,
Gruppenfuhrer Karl Weitz, has more than military might behind him. He has
recruited the Ochre Witch, an Eastern European sorceress capable of adapting
what they seize to serve the Reich’s needs.

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Only one team can stop the Axis powers from winning World War II.

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Army Major Ray Hawkins is tasked with creating the Office of Supernatural
Directives to stop these fanatics. He assembles a team that includes a female
WASP pilot, an enlisted man with a passion for language and puzzles, a
mysterious American ex-pat from the French Foreign Legion, and a young Romany
woman who will need to embrace the mystic Gypsy teachings she’s spent her life
despising.

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Their first mission unfolds in Tunisia, where Weitz and the Ocher Witch plan to
release a djinn the locals call the Devil in the Desert. It wields the power to
spread debilitating fear. If Major Hawkins and his band cannot stop the djinn,
it will sow panic among the Americans and Rommel’s Afrika Korps will crush the
invasion force. But Hawkins’ new team has many weaknesses, and Weitz and the
Ocher Witch will exploit every one of them to win.

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Amazon * Bookbub * Goodreads

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Ray followed General Charles Vernon into a side room where an Indian British Army captain with a full moustache and beard sat at a wooden table. He wore a Sikh turban. Ray had heard that the Sikhs were ferocious in battle. He stood up, ramrod straight and stared through Ray. Ray was a fit 5’ 9”. This towering captain made him feel small.

“Major Hawkins, this is Captain Singh. He’s going to brief you on some top-secret material. None of which you can discuss with anyone once you leave this room.”

Ray and Singh exchanged nods and the three sat down. Singh’s back never strayed from being perfectly vertical. He opened a folder.

“You are briefed on the SS organization?”

“Yes, a parallel army staffed with Nazi fanatics more devoted to Hitler than to the Fatherland.”

“They are indeed fanatics, steeped in the nonsense ideology of the Aryan master race. That includes a firm belief in the occult and supernatural, which they consider the source of their superiority, a source that ‘cross-breeding’ with ‘inferior races’ has now denied them. Hitler himself is completely taken with such ideas.”

“Lunatics believe insane things.”

“There is an entire section within the SS devoted to such research. It is called the Ahnenerbe. They have agents combing the world for phenomena that the Germans can use to create wonder weapons and win the war.”

Ray laughed. “Well, good for them wasting resources chasing ghosts and Loch Ness monsters.”

“We wish that it was a waste of time.”

Singh took out another sheet of paper. This one had a drawing of a sea creature crushing several Phoenician galleys. The enormous creature looked like a hideous cross between a sperm whale and an octopus.

“Phoenicians called it a lotan. Powerful sea creatures able to destroy ships with impunity.”

Ray had read more than his share of fantasy and science fiction tales. “The kraken myth.”

“Similar, except these were no myth.”

Singh pulled out a black-and-white picture with TOP SECRET printed along one side. Despite the grainy quality, the subject was easy to make out, though hard to believe. An octopus-like creature held aloft two halves of a submarine. Tiny sailors hung on to the canted conning tower.

“The Ahnenerbe found them, resurrected them, created them. The plan was to have the Luftwaffe attack from the sky and a combination of U-boats and leviathans attack from the sea. They would starve England into surrender during the first winter.”

Ray couldn’t believe what he was hearing. He looked up at General Vernon, who was taking it all in stride and had apparently already known all of this.

“They’re animals,” Ray said. “They’d be no match for modern weapons.”

“Not animals, supernatural creatures. Impervious to conventional weapons.”

“But England survived. How?”

“The details are classified. But I can tell you that supernatural threats require supernatural remedies. That’s the best advice I can give you.”

“Advice? Why would I need advice about this?”

“We are about to jump into this war on the ground in a big way,” the general said. “The Brits had a whole section working on rooting out the Ahnenerbe and destroying whatever technology they’ve created. We’re going to start our own similar team. General Eisenhower picked you to lead it.”

“Me? I’m an infantry officer.”

“Which gives you the leadership experience. Eisenhower liked your fitness reports and your stint as company commander of that experimental light reconnaissance company. You showed the ability to think outside the box tactically.”

“Whoever runs this operation needs to have an open mind about anything the Nazis might try to find, no matter how out in left field it might be.”

“Our men stay close to the front,” Singh said. “Ready to respond to anything out of the ordinary advancing troops come across. Sometimes those clues have sent us deep into enemy territory to intervene before things got too far along for us to stop it.”

“Thank you, Captain Singh,” the general said. “That will be all.”

“Certainly, sir.” Singh collected his papers and left the room. He closed the door behind him.

“We need a unit to do what the Brits were doing,” the general said. “Your group will be called the Office of Supernatural Directives. You’ll have vague orders that give you a lot of latitude in going wherever you need to be. But you’ll have to be low-key. I think you can appreciate that your unit is best kept secret from the public and even within the military itself.”

“Yes, sir. People would think we were crazy.”

“Worse, they might think that you weren’t, and the last thing we need is a war-worried populace also starting to panic over supernatural threats. Hell, people would never sleep.”

Ray was starting to wonder if he ever would again.

“Are you up for the challenge, Major?”

He honestly didn’t know what to say. The whole idea was so bizarre, chasing Nazis who were chasing myths. He had an important staff job in logistics now that he was damn good at. Once American troops started taking the fight to the Axis, the soldiers who kept them supplied would be the difference between victory and defeat.

“It’s a lot to take in, sir. I think –”

The door opened. General Eisenhower stuck in his head. His eyes lit up when he saw Ray.

“General, you found Major Hawkins! Superb. Captain Singh has briefed you, Major?”

“Uh, yes, sir.”

“Outstanding. Great to have you lead this new team. I know I can count on you.”

The general disappeared and the door closed.

“Looks like the General accepted for you,” General Vernon said.

“Looks like he did.”

“Head over to G1 and start looking through personnel jackets. You need to assemble a team.”

***

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Trucks, tanks, and more!

There are a number of vehicles the OSD team comes across during their adventures in Devil in the Desert. I did a lot of research to pick specific types that would be historically accurate to the time period. Not wanting all that research and fun facts to go to waste, I’ll share them with you here.

German Army Kubelwagen

Americans had the Jeep. The Germans has a Kubelwagen.

Ferdinand Porsche, future-father of the 911 sports car, designed this inexpensive, lightweight military transport vehicle in 1938. The Volkswagen Beetle, a promised “people’s car” that the war put on hold provided the basis. Unlike the Jeep, this was only two-wheel- drive, but it still proved tough to get stuck, even with only a 985 cc engine.

Full-scale production of the Type 82 Kübelwagen started in February 1940 and continued with only minor changes all the way until 1945. By then 50,435 Kübelwagen vehicles had been produced. Only small modifications were implemented, mostly eliminating unnecessary parts and reinforcing others which had proved unequal to the task. Prototype versions were assembled with four-wheel-drive (Type 86) and different engines, but none offered a significant increase in performance or capability over the existing Type 82, so these designs went nowhere.

This interior picture show how utilitarian the interior was, and that the body was anything but bulletproof. But it had more room and more protection from the elements that the Jeep. In fact, it was captured and re-used by so many Allied soldiers that the U.S. Army even made a field manual for its troops so they could repair and maintain one correctly.

M3 “Lee” Medium Battle Tank

As entering World War II looked inevitable, American armor dated from the last big war and was hopelessly obsolete. The stopgap answer was the M3 Lee, officially Medium Tank, M3. It carried a 75 mm main gun mounted in the tank body, and a smaller cannon in the turret. It was relatively easy to build, relatively inexpensive ($55,000), and the main gun packed a decent punch against the armor rolling when it was first deployed in 1941.

But the design had some serious drawbacks. First, unlike every other tank in WWII, the main gun wasn’t in the turret. That meant you needed to spin the entire tank to aim the gun. There was a reason no other army had tanks like this. Other drawbacks included a high silhouette, the inability to take a hull-down firing position, riveted construction that could send popped rivets into the crew area when an enemy round hit, and poor off-road performance. But until the superior M4 Shermans arrived, this was all the Americans had. Production ended in 1942 after making 6,258 of them.

The turret was produced in two forms, one with the main gun on the right, like the picture for American standards, and one with the main gun on the left for British requirements. American tanks were called “Lee,” named after Confederate general Robert E. Lee, British tanks were known as “Grant,” named after Union general Ulysses S. Grant. Nearly a thousand M3s were supplied to the Soviet military under Lend-Lease between 1941 and 1943.

In the Pacific, where it was a match for the lighter Japanese Army tanks, the M3 did soldier on until 1945.

Opel Blitz Kfz 305 Ambulance

The OSD is not above using captured vehicles to get around, especially since masquerading as the 417th Medical Holding Battalion on paper, they can’t very well requisition one without getting unwanted attention. One of the vehicles they use is a German Army Opel Blitz Ambulance.

The Opel Blitz was the workhorse truck of the German Army. First delivered to the Wehrmacht in 1937, by the time bombing destroyed the factory in 1944, over 130,000 had been delivered. It could carry a payload of over 2.5 tons, travel up to 50 miles per hour, and had a range of over 200 miles. All this was accomplished with only a 74 hp engine. The truck was renowned for its hardiness and ease of repair.

There were literally dozens of variants of what was officially named the Kfz 305. One of these was an ambulance version that definitely saw service with the Afrika Korps in Libya and Tunisia. As these were the most likely vehicles to escape destruction in combat, it seemed a good choice to be the truck Major Ray Hawkins can get his hands on.

All the color pictures here I took at the American Heritage Museum in Stow, Massachusetts. I highly recommend a visit there to see their excellent collection of military vehicles from many time periods, but especially World War II. They even let you drive a Sherman tank.

Those are a few of the vehicles mentioned in Devil in the Desert. I hope they matched what my descriptions planted in your mind’s eye.

If you haven’t gotten a copy of this WWII horror thriller yet, head over to Amazon and get yourself one today.

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Russell R. James was raised on Long Island, New York and spent too much time watching
Chiller, Kolchak: The Night Stalker, and Dark Shadows, despite his parents’
warnings. Bookshelves full of Stephen King and Edgar Allan Poe didn’t make
things better. He graduated from Cornell University and the University of
Central Florida.

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After flying helicopters with the U.S. Army and a career as a technical writer, he
now spins twisted tales best read in daylight, including horror thrillers Dark
Inspiration, Q Island, and The Playing Card Killer. He authored the Grant
Coleman Adventures series starting with Cavern of the Damned and the Ranger
Kathy West series starting with Claws. He resides in sunny Florida. His wife
reads his work, rolls her eyes, and says “There is something seriously
wrong with you.”

.

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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~~~~~

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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.

Mirrored Wounds by Rebecca Christo ~ Guest Post And Giveaway

Posted: July 11, 2024 in giveaways, Guest Post, Mystery
Tags: , , ,
6
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 When the present mirrors her past wounds, Laura begins to unravel.

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Mirrored Wounds

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by Rebecca Christo

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Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction, Psychological Mystery

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 Laura’s life was finally good. She’d freed herself from the clutches
of an abusive partner, left an unrewarding career as an interior
designer to follow her dreams of becoming a writer, and was finally
happy. And things were only getting better. Her very first novel had
struck a chord with readers and become a bestseller, but when the
murder she’d described in its pages suddenly gets played out in real
life, with her beloved husband as the victim, it is obvious to her
that she looks guilty, despite having an alibi that would have been
difficult to fake.

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As the investigation proceeds, with
little or no progress being made, bizarre happenings in the
security-protected home she’d shared with her husband have her
questioning her own sanity, despite the reassurance of her therapist.
Could she have murdered the first man to ever make her feel truly
loved and secure and then just … forgotten somehow? Surely not. But
as even more troubling events come to light, with no logical
explanation besides her own guilt, she finds herself questioning
everything she knows to be true … including her own innocence.

Amazon
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I sat back on my patio chair and closed my eyes towards the sun. The temperature had reached record breaking highs for September and I wanted to soak it all in. I took a sip of my iced coffee and dialed Cassie’s cell.

 

“Hey you!” She said in a cheery voice.

 

I smiled. Cassie was the manager of a new five- star hotel in the city and she was usually too busy to take personal calls, but she loved her job.  “Do you have a second to chat?”

 

“Surprisingly for a change, yes!” Cassie said. She worked non-stop, so our conversations were usually through text message.  It was nice to hear her voice.

 

“How are things Cas?” I asked.

 

“You, know.  Work keeps me so busy I barely have time for a social life, and when I do go out, all the guys I meet are assholes.” She said with a laugh. “How are you doing Laura?”

 

“So good.” I told her.  “Matt is back next week so I’m just enjoying this beautiful weather!”

 

Matt and I had been married for nine years now.  The day I left the city, he had met me at the new house to sign the lease and give me the keys. He was good-looking with a quirky smile.  I remember being incredibly self-conscience about the scar on my face, but he didn’t seem to notice.  He just chatted politely about the house and his renovation ideas like we had known each other for years.

 

“Awe, I’m so happy for you Laura” Cassie said, “we should all go away for the weekend soon.”

 

“I’m not sure we’ll ever be able to pry Amy away from her kids!” I said and we both laughed.

 

We had been planning a weekend away for a while but Amy and Sam had two kids now that were their entire lives.  After they got married, they had tried for years to get pregnant, and finally gave up on the idea. After they stopped trying, she got pregnant right away and had two boys back- to- back. Elliot is ten years old, and Oliver is nine and they are her everything. Amy was born to be a mother.

 

“I’m writing a book,” I told Cassie hesitantly “I’ve been working on it for a few months.”  This wasn’t the first time I had tried to write a book, and I was starting to feel like no one would take me seriously.  After I left the city, I had tried to write several books on interior design but I always ended up hating them and had never finished.  I enjoyed journaling everyday though, and I wanted something creative to focus on so a few months ago I had decided to start a fictional novel.

 

“Is it about……..what happened?” She asked hesitantly.  Paul Johnson was about to be released from jail.  Apparently, he had stabbed another inmate while serving his time and the judge had thrown the book at him.  During the trial, I had been contacted and asked to do a victim impact statement for court.  Now that he was finally being released, my therapist had suggested journaling my feelings about it as a coping mechanism but it was still difficult to think about even after all this time. The thought of him being out made me cringe.

 

“No, I’m still not ready to write about that nightmare,” I said “My book is fiction.” I told her, “you will love it because it’s about a woman who kills her husband.” I said giggling.

 

“Ha! I can’t wait to read it.” Cassie said, “Sounds fantastic!”

 

“I don’t know if it will be any good, but it will keep me busy while Matt is at work.” I chuckled.

 

I hadn’t worked since I left the city years ago, and Matt managed remote projects so he traveled for work.  He was often gone for weeks at a time. It was the only thing that I didn’t love about Matt. I hated being alone so much, but I was getting better at it. I no longer called him at work panicking if the house creaked or if I heard a noise outside.

 

When Matt asked me to marry him, I happily accepted the proposal and he immediately took a job working locally.  He insisted that if we were going to be a family, part of that meant him being home every night.  Initially, I loved the idea, but within a couple of months the spark disappeared from his eyes. He didn’t find his new job challenging and he often returned home at the end of the day in a bad mood. It didn’t take me long to see that he was unhappy with his new career choice, and I hated to see him sacrifice what he loved for our marriage.  The day I told him he should return to remote building projects I could see the relief in his eyes. I didn’t want him to ever have to choose between me and the career that he loved.

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Can you, for those who don’t know you already, tell something about yourself and how you became an author?

I have always wanted to be a writer.  It has been my dream to write a book for as long as I can remember. However, I have also always had an exaggerated list of excuses as to why I didn’t write a book.  Raising my three amazing children, a stressful career, and a hectic lifestyle always on the go.  When Covid shut a lot of the world down, I was still an essential worker in the health care field working insane shifts. When I approached my husband about taking a year off to finally write a book now that the kids are adults, he was completely on board and Mirrored Wounds was born.  I’ve learned so much about my writing style and the “behind the scenes” stuff that goes along with having a book published.  I’m currently working on my second book and I’m excited to share it soon!

 

What are some of your pet peeves?

My biggest pet peeves are when people say: “I seen that”, rude people, huggers, people that judge you based on what you’re doing when they’ve never done it themselves – it’s easier to criticize than do.

 

What are you passionate about these days?

My second book Jill and Jack.  It’s a story about a woman named Jill who is dealing with transitioning her father into a nursing home and cleaning out his brownstone in Brooklyn.  She discovers clues and solves an old mystery that contains many twists and turns.

 

Do you have a favorite movie?

The Great Gatsby

 

Describe yourself in five words or less!

– Creative

– Witty

– Introverted

– Book worm

– Sincere

 

What book do you think everyone should read?

Pride and Prejudice, Wuthering Heights, The Great Gatsby

 

A day in the life of an author?

I always set up my next scene at the end of my day for the next day when I’m writing.  I find this really helpful because it gives me the evening to consider the scene and really give some thought to how the character will react to whatever is about to take place.  It also gives ne something to look forward to the next morning.  Generally, I’m awake before my alarm and settled with a coffee in my office by seven am.  (Sometimes much earlier) my days don’t always look the same, but the ones that I am able to dedicate to writing are my favorite.

 

What is your writing Kryptonite?

I think my biggest Kryptonite when writing is having to stop to answer the phone or the doorbell or any other mild inconvenience while I’m on a roll.

 

If you could tell your writing self anything, what would it be?

Just keep writing – don’t give up!  It’s too easy to shelf a book because life gets busy.  Carve time away everyday for your passion.

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 Avid dog lover and Author Rebecca Christo was born in Toronto,
Ontario, where she developed an early love of both reading and
writing. Of particular interest to her was creating a story with
emotionally mature content that was still entertaining enough to be
read for fun on a relaxing vacation. She hopes she’s succeeded with
her very first published novel: Mirrored Wounds.

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When she’s not travelling with her husband, Darcy Christo, Rebecca
enjoys spending time with him, her children Ali, Brittany and
Maxwell, and her puppies (Lucy and Winston) in Wasaga Beach, Ontario
where she currently lives.

Website
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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.

Tribes by Mia Frances ~ Guest Post And Giveaway

Posted: July 10, 2024 in Dystopian, giveaways, Guest Post, Romance, suspense
Tags: , , ,
12
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 A dark, gritty post-apocalyptic tale of love, loathing, & survival!

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Tribes

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by Mia Frances

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Genre: Post-Apocalyptic Dystopian, Dark Romantic Suspense

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A dark, gritty post-apocalyptic tale of love, loathing, &
survival!

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 Alex, her
sisters, and their kids are on their way to her camp in the
Adirondack Mountains for the Columbus Day weekend when the
unthinkable happens. A voice on the radio warns the country is under
attack! Greeted by guns and bullets when they try to seek shelter,
they’re forced to hide in a cave to wait out the fallout.

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After two weeks in
their dank hole, Alex wakes up one morning to discover her sisters
gone. They’ve taken the rented minibus and returned to the city to
search for their husbands, leaving Alex to care for her 7 nieces and
nephews. It’s an arduous 35-mile hike through the mountains to her
camp…a journey through hell!

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Society is
devolving. The strong: looters, murderers, and rapists; preying on
the weak. The small hamlets and villages they pass through have
become killing fields, as survivors battle each other for the few
remaining supplies. Above them, the skies are growing darker every
day, blocking out the sun. Temperatures are plummeting. Winter is
coming early.

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Along the way, Alex
rescues two starving orphans whose mother was murdered by marauders.
In her struggle to keep the children alive, Alex stumbles on a hidden
cache of food only to discover it’s guarded by a man who’ll haunt her
nightmares. Half guardian angel, half demon. Both barbarian and
benefactor. A strange mixture of brutality and gentleness, cruelty
and caring. A man named Wolf!

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This book
contains explicit, non-consensual sexual scenes, spankings, and
elements of power exchange, which may offend or trigger some readers.
If such material offends you, please don’t buy this book. For readers
ages 18+

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**On Sale Now!!**

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Amazon
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Alex was trying not to hate them for what they’d done. But it was hard! She told herself she should pity them for their stupidity and cowardice. Unable to cope with reality, it was easier for them to retreat into their fantasies: where the dead were alive and the world was as it once was; or, better still, the saved were carried away in the rapture on heavenly escalators bound for eternal paradise. The past belonged to Victoria and the future with its promise of a glorious hereafter to Cat. But Alex? Alex could find comfort in neither. She was stuck here in this living hell, overwhelmed by the shit, and the stench, and the responsibility! How could they do this to her? They were her sisters; yet they’d betrayed her. Worse still, they’d betrayed their children. Narcissistic bitches! Cunts! Alex sat in silence, listening to the strained sound of her own breathing, stoically resigned to her fate.

“What do we do now?” Deana asked, plaintively.

Without saying a word, Alex got up, and walked from the cave. There was nothing to say. No words of hope. No reassurances that all would be well. The truth was they were going to die; their existence would come to a miserable end. It was only a matter of time.

Alex wanted to feel alive again, breathe fresh air, see the sky, let the wind blow through her hair, marvel at nature’s beauty, before those simple pleasures were taken from her. She wandered over the rocks, peering into the crevices. They reminded her of the world, the way it was now: barren and pockmarked. Alex stared across the river to the place where the minibus had been parked.

They were 35 miles from the camp. Sick and weak from hunger, there was little chance they could make it on foot. How could she expect children to endure such an arduous trek when they were starving? Even if they did have the strength to begin the journey, how many of them would survive it? In their present condition, making the trip across the mountains with its exhausting, steep climbs would take them six days at least. Six days of freezing cold nights, of possible rain, and wind. If hunger didn’t kill them, then exposure to the elements certainly would…not to mention the fallout still drifting down from the skies. She drew her knees up to her chest and, placing her arms across them, rested her head, wearily shutting her eyes. Alex was at a loss to know what to do: stay here in the shelter of the cave and starve to death or begin the odyssey through the wilderness on the slim chance that they might somehow survive it? Alex was tired, and weak from hunger. She wasn’t sure she could survive the journey, let alone the kids. Death seemed inevitable.

She lifted her head and looked around, surveying the cliff below. There was something black and tan resting on the rocks. Alex strained to see what it was. It appeared to be a short length of discarded rope. Near it, some 10 feet away, was another piece, thicker than the first. She made a mental note that they might want to retrieve them to use on their trip back across the river. Alex was turning away when she caught sight of movement down below. It was hard to tell, swaying trees and branches were casting shadows on the rocks. Curiosity aroused, she continued to watch the objects. There it was again. She stood up slowly and began making her way over the rocks. Halfway down, she realized they weren’t pieces of rope at all; they were alive. Snakes! Two big ones! What were they doing here? It was cold. Too cold for snakes to be out and about. They should be hibernating, yet here they were. Alex inched her way closer, eyes glued on the creatures. She’d never thought of reptiles as anything but revolting before, nevertheless, she suddenly found her mouth watering, visions of sizzling meat dancing in her head. Though torpid, they looked healthy and well fed. She wasn’t going to turn her back on good fortune. She intended to put them to good use.

Smiling at her prey, Alex picked up a stone and with as much stealth as she could muster, approached them, hoping they wouldn’t notice her and try to escape. The one on the left was the fattest. He’d be first. Clutching the stone tightly in her hand, she crawled to within two feet of him, then, lifting her weapon, brought it crashing down on its head, smashing the skull. Wriggling, even in death, she grabbed it and quickly turned her attention to the other one. Aware of the danger, it was slithering away. Scrambling over the rocks, Alex saw its head disappear into a crevice. Lunging for it, she managed to wrap her fingers around its tail. Tugging with all her might, she extracted the squirming snake from its hiding place and beat it against the rocks until it stopped moving. Today they’d eat! With just her two hands and a bit of luck she’d managed to stave off starvation, at least for the moment. Perhaps tomorrow they’d go hungry, but even that frightening prospect couldn’t dampen her elation. She looked out over the interminable expanse of green, stretching as far as the eye could see. It seemed less foreboding than it had a few minutes ago. Holding a dangling snake in each hand, Alex headed back to the cave, the tiny ember of hope she’d thought extinguished, glowing brightly once more.

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I did 2 full years of research on the book, taking tons of notes, learning everything I could about wild edibles, native animals, and survival skills before starting it. Every locale mentioned in the story is a real place that we’ve explored and it has the type of plants mentioned in the book. I am a real research freak.

I love the mountains so many of my stories are set in the Adirondacks. We were going to visit my sister-in-law one time and decided to take a 20+-mile shortcut as the crow flies and found ourselves driving along a secluded, unpaved, seasonal, Adirondack logging road. No houses, no people, nothing but miles and miles of trees and spooky shadows. The forest was so thick, so dark, and foreboding, that it gave me goose bumps. I feared we’d get stranded and be eaten by bears never to be seen again. I kept imagining the murders and mayhem that might take place in such a desolate place. By the time we reached civilization and paved roads in the village of Number Four, yes it’s a real place, I had the entire plot of  WORSHIP THE NIGHT worked out: a homicidal librarian who goes on a killing spree, hoping to bring her demon lover to life.

The idea for my IN HIS KEEPING series came from another trip my husband and I took through the Adirondacks. We spent a lot of time there: camping, fishing, and just driving around looking at the scenery. That day we happened on the Westport, NY railroad station, near the banks of Lake Champlain. It’s quaint and  looks like it was built in the 19th century. The train station is where the first book in the series, IN HIS KEEPING: TAKEN,  begins and ends. It’s off the beaten track so I couldn’t help wondering what kind of people would get on and off at a station stop like that. I could see a young woman, down on her luck, who’s circumstances are so dire she’s willing to take a train up from the City and work for someone she’s never met, who she knows nothing about, and live with him in a remote mountain house. As I took pictures of the station, the story  blossomed. I knew I wanted my heroine to be nerdy and smart. I’d met a woman at a writer’s conference a few months earlier whose name was Sylvie. It clicked with me. It sounded spunky and sassy, just like the character I was envisioning. A girl who’s poor but proud,  an innocent who  grew up on a farm in western NY and went to the big city to work in publishing. She’s unemployed, homeless, and on the verge of starving. She needs a job and she’ll take anything she can get. That’s why she gets off the train in Westport. She has no other options. At that point, I had a heroine I liked, but no hero. I knew I wanted him to be a strict, rich alpha male. Dark, sexy, and with a hint of danger. At the time, I had no idea just how dangerous I was going to make him. I also wanted him to be a writer. We left Westport and  headed into the mountains. We drove down back roads and passed secluded log mansions perched on the slopes and dotting the lakeshores. I could see my guy living as a recluse in one of them. I picked his last name first:Hudson. I named him after the river, which originates in the Adirondacks and is 5 miles from my house. I came up with the first name Connor a few days later. That same day I heard something that made me decide to make it a threesome. I added a serial killer to the mix. It happened quite by accident. I was checking out Trans Siberian Orchestra’s holiday concert schedule, then went to YouTube to view videos of their past performances. O Fortuna from Carmina Burana popped up. I’d been to their concerts and heard them play it before. I listened to several  other versions of the piece that day and happened on one by  conductor André Rieu  André Rieu – O Fortuna (Carl Orff – Carmina Burana). It gave me an eerie feeling. The drums, the crashing cymbals, the staccato rhythm, the raised voices of the chorus, it sounded violent,  almost frightening. I could visualize an attack, knives, blood,  and a life and death struggle. The song provided the final elements of the plot and the most affecting scenes of the series when Sylvie comes face to face with the killer. In His Keeping Trailer

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Mia Frances is the pen name of author Mary Vigliante Szydlowski. As
Mia, she’s the author of the dark, gritty post-apocalyptic romance,
TRIBES; steamy romantic suspense novel, Little Girl Lost; and the
erotic romance, murder mystery series: IN HIS KEEPING: TAKEN, IN HIS
KEEPING: BANISHED, and IN HIS KEEPING: CLAIMED.

Her Science Fiction/Fantasy works
include novels: The Ark (Jarl Szydlow), The Colony (Mary Vigliante),
The Land (Mary Vigliante), Source of Evil (Mary Vigliante), and
novella, The Hand of My Enemy. She’s also the author of horror novel,
Worship the Night; and Dark Realm, the tale of a dystopian world
ruled by Satan. In addition, she’s the author of mainstream novel
Silent Song.

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She’s also published 11 children’s book: There’s A Mouse In The
House,  Are We There Yet?, Little Sowbug & the Big Flood,
Ghoul School, Millie Muldoon & the Case of the Halloween
Haunting, Millie Muldoon & the Case of the Thanksgiving
Turkey-napper, Millie Muldoon & the Christmas Mystery, A Puddle
for Poo, Kia’s Manatee, The Duck in the Hole, and I Can’t Talk I’ve
Got Farbles In My Mouth.

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Her short stories, articles, children’s stories, essays, and
poems have appeared in books, magazines, newspapers, and on the web.
She’s also a contributor to the Chicken Soup for the Soul
anthologies: The Dog Did What?, Volunteering and Giving Back, Merry
Christmas!, Mom Knows Best, and Life Lessons from the Dog.

She’s a member of the Authors’ Guild, SCBWI (Society of
Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators), SFWA (Science Fiction &
Fantasy Writers of America), and RWA (Romance Writers of America).

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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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Peek Inside And Guest Post ~ Urbex Predator by Jens Boele

Posted: June 5, 2024 in Guest Post, horror, thriller
Tags: , ,
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Lost in the wilderness, a desolate barracks becomes a perilous attraction for risk-seekers drawn to the heart of nowhere, as a ruthless gang turns the abandoned settlement into a deadly trap with escalating provocations and brutal violence.

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Urbex Predator

by Jen Boele

Publication Date: February 4, 2024

Pages: 394

Genre: Horror / Thriller

A relic from
the Cold War, the old barracks beckon photographers, influencers, and
adventurers, shrouded in secrets and peril. Nela and Tess dare the eerie
ruins for their photography thesis, while Zander, Yelka, Vivien, and
Damon embark on a simultaneous shoot. Amid the abandoned shadows,
Yelka’s group runs into Steven and his ruthless gang, initially
outsmarting them. Yet, Nela and Tess fall victim to a nightfall ambush,
escaping but torn apart. As adrenaline courses through the gang, they
stalk Yelka and her friends, unleashing a relentless manhunt. Vivien
becomes their captive, setting off a chain reaction. Tess encounters
Damon and Yelka, while Nela, guided by Ben, the barracks’ security
manager, races to find Tess. Yelka strives to rescue Vivien, trapped in
an abandoned outdoor pool. On his lone pursuit, Zander witnesses the
gang’s brutality, delving into a darker realm within himself, spurred by
the horrifying thrill of Steven’s actions. The scene propels Yelka,
Damon, and Tess into a frenzy, unleashing chaos to liberate Vivien. Nela
and Ben, attempting to overpower the gang, witness Yelka and Vivien’s
escape as the gang closes in. With the arrival of Steven’s older
brother, Henry, the stakes are set; the old military hospital transforms
into a battleground. No one is to leave alive, and a matter of life and
death ensues. In the ruthless clash, Nela and Yelka emerge as the lone
defenders, while Zander pursues a mission for his own catharsis. In
Henry’s basement, dubbed his Hades, the teams converge for a
pulse-pounding final duel, where survival is the ultimate prize. 

You can pick up your copy at Amazon.

 

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AUTHOR GUEST POST
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Can you tell us what your book, Urbex Predator, is about? 

Absolutely! ‘Urbex Predator’ is a heart-pounding thriller that takes readers on a gripping journey into the depths of horror and suspense. Set against the eerie backdrop of abandoned Cold War-era barracks, the story follows two groups of urban explorers whose innocent photo shoots quickly turn into a fight for
survival. As they navigate through the desolate ruins, they encounter a gang of depraved hoodlums whose menacing presence escalates into brutal violence. What unfolds is a relentless battle, where the boundaries between life and death blur, and the characters are forced to confront their deepest fears.

 

It’s a pulse-pounding narrative filled with unexpected twists, sinister secrets, and unforgettable characters. Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled ride that will leave you on the edge of your seat until the very last page!

Can you tell us a little about your main and supporting characters?

Absolutely, that’s a fantastic inquiry, delving into a crucial aspect of the book. The issue of character count has been raised by some readers, prompting me to create a comprehensive character cheat sheet available for download on my website. However, I respectfully disagree with the notion of an excessive character count. In a horror novel with a high body count, each character serves a purpose, contributing to the intricate tapestry of the narrative.

Let’s zero in on the key players: Nela and Tess, inseparable friends embarking on a journey to document the abandoned barracks for Nela’s photography thesis. While Nela exudes focus and determination, Tess dreams of a glamorous modeling career, their dynamic akin to yin and yang, revolving around their differing perspectives on photography’s significance.

Enter Yelka and Zander, childhood companions drawn to urban exploration for the sheer thrill of discovery. Yelka radiates warmth and curiosity, relishing in the exploration of abandoned sites, while Zander harbors unspoken affections for Yelka, channeling his expertise in urban exploration to fuel her passion. Accompanying them are Vivien, Yelka’s sister, an emerging social media influencer, and her manager Damon, solely focused on bolstering Vivien’s online presence.

When faced with the menacing gang of hoodlums, our protagonists find themselves navigating a perilous struggle for survival, prompting reflection on who will survive and, as a famous quote suggests, what will be left of them. Prepare for a riveting exploration of friendship, survival, and the shadows that lurk within the abandoned corridors of the human psyche.

Your book is set in abandoned Cold War-era barracks. Can you tell us why you chose this location in particular?

“Urbex Predator” is fundamentally grounded in the realm of urban exploration, making the selection of an abandoned locale as the primary setting a natural choice. I envisioned an isolated, secluded world nestled amidst the wilderness, drawing inspiration from my personal experiences in urban exploration. Old military compounds emerged as the quintessential backdrop, offering vast expanses far removed from urban hubs.

These compounds, apart from the barracks themselves, encompass a myriad of structures including housing, medical facilities, sports arenas, and even entertainment outlets like cinemas and theaters. Exploring these vast expanses is akin to stepping into a time capsule reclaimed by nature, evoking sensations reminiscent of an apocalyptic film set, albeit grounded in reality.

The compound depicted in “Urbex Predator” is entirely fictional, crafted as an amalgamation of various abandoned barracks I’ve encountered. Adhering to a cardinal rule of urban exploration, disclosing the exact location of these sites to the public is strictly forbidden. While real-world locations akin to those in the book exist, their anonymity must be preserved to uphold the integrity of the urbexing community.

And let’s not forget a cardinal rule of horror storytelling: transgression invites peril. In “Urbex Predator,” as in any horror narrative, defiance of established norms invariably leads to dire consequences. It’s a chilling reminder that in the realm of horror, breaking the rules comes at a grave cost.

How long did it take you to write your book?

Absolutely, each book I embark on brings its own unique journey, and “Urbex Predator” was no exception. The genesis of this tale began with a burst of inspiration in October/early November, with the first threads of the narrative taking shape by the dawn of the new year, 2022. It was a swift process, as I delved into the story’s intricacies, spending the following four months weaving together its tapestry.

However, the trajectory of my writing journey encountered an unexpected pause in late February, prompted by the onset of the conflict in Ukraine. The chilling realities of the abandoned Cold War-era barracks mirrored the unfolding horrors of the real world, causing a momentary hesitation in my creative process. Yet, I resolved not to succumb to the shadow cast by Russian aggression, both in Ukraine and across the global consciousness, and persevered in bringing this tale to fruition.

By autumn of 2022, the manuscript stood complete, poised for the scrutiny of test readers whose invaluable feedback shaped its final form. Following a series of reviews and revisions, “Urbex Predator” made its debut in Germany by the year’s end, marking the culmination of one phase of its journey. The subsequent translation into English unfolded across the expanse of 2023, a testament to the meticulous care invested in ensuring its accessibility to a broader audience.

In hindsight, while the act of writing itself spanned a mere four months, the entirety of the creative process encompassed a year-long odyssey. Each moment, each pause, and each revision bore witness to the evolution of “Urbex Predator” from a mere concept to a tangible reality, poised to enthrall and captivate readers across borders.

What has been the most pivotal point of your writing life?

Let me take you back to a pivotal moment in my writing journey—one that forever altered the course of my storytelling. It all began with my debut book, “Sunshine,” a crime thriller sparked by the adrenaline of TV’s “Breaking Bad.” Excitedly, I handed it over to friends for their honest feedback, expecting accolades and applause. Instead, I received a bewildering response: “Jens, that’s a nice short story.”

Confusion swept over me. How could my magnum opus be dismissed as a mere short story? As we delved into the narrative together, their insights unveiled a critical truth: storytelling isn’t just about pace; it’s about depth and development. “Why does the drug dealer suddenly turn into a psychopath?” they queried, prompting a deeper reflection on character motivation and narrative arcs.

In that moment, I realized the power of structure and attention to detail in crafting compelling tales. Our drug dealer wasn’t just a villain; he was a complex soul wrestling with his demons. His struggles with substance abuse, compounded by toxic relationships, laid bare the fragility of his existence. Beneath the facade of bravado lay a man clinging desperately to his last shred of identity—the business he built from the ground up.

As we journeyed alongside Mr. White Junior, witnessing his rise amidst the unwavering support of friends, we simultaneously mourned the tragic descent of our flawed antihero—the bad boy drug dealer. It’s moments like these—moments of introspection and revelation—that shape the very essence of storytelling, inviting readers to immerse themselves in worlds both familiar and fantastical, where every character, every twist, holds a piece of our collective humanity.

What kind of advice would you give up and coming authors?

Ah, now that’s a question that cuts to the heart of the matter—the business of writing. It’s not just about crafting compelling plots or spinning tales; it’s about mastering the art of selling your story to the world. Picture this: You’re a brilliant wordsmith, armed with plots that could rival Shakespeare, but without the know-how to market your masterpiece, you’re a ship lost at sea.

Welcome to the world of modern publishing, where authors are not only writers but also savvy marketers. Gone are the days of relying solely on publishers; today, you’re the CEO of your literary empire. You’ll find yourself donning multiple hats—graphic designer, editor, SEO analyst, social media guru—the list goes on. It’s a daunting prospect, I won’t sugarcoat it. But here’s the reality: Either invest your time or your money, because there’s no shortcut to success.

Lesson number two? Brace yourself for the rollercoaster ride of defining success and weathering disappointments. Even with meticulous planning and stellar execution, there’s no guarantee of overnight fame and fortune. But amidst the uncertainty lies the beauty of the journey. It’s a test of resilience, a testament to your unwavering commitment to the craft.

So, gear up, my fellow wordsmiths. Arm yourself with discipline and determination, for the road ahead is anything but smooth. But remember this: Amidst the challenges lie moments of unexpected triumphs—cherish them, for they are the fuel that powers your writer’s soul.

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Enjoy this peek inside:

We better find a way out quickly. The editorial’s deadline is getting close, we can’t afford any further delay.

Damon’s words lay upon the group like a heavy burden. He was good at making his personal problems everybody’s business. When he felt spoiled, he meant business. And Damon wasn’t done yet.

“Moreover, we have no Wi-Fi here. Zero, nada, not a bit.”

He let the words sink in, then added, “Even if I wanted to, I couldn’t post anything out here.” He put his phone away and joined Zander.

“Here’s how it’s going down: While the girls are taking photos, you’re looking for an exit that will get us out of here A–S–A–P. Get it?”

“We’ll take the pictures, don’t worry about it” Yelka hooked in from behind. “And tonight, from our hotel, we’ll be able to watch your follower numbers skyrocket in no time.”

“I assume so,” Damon replied curtly. “The sore point in the planning is the way back. But Zander will take care of that. And I know for sure he’ll find a really fast way out for us.” Appreciatively, he patted his shoulders.

“Damon, when do you think we will break the 30,000 mark? I really want that to happen by this weekend.”

“Yes, starlet, we can definitely do that. Your pretty sister will do a fantastic job and Zander will get us back to the hotel in no time.”

Zander wasn’t concerned about Damon’s problems at all. If it were up to him, Vivian should just do blunt erotic shots on the beach or in a studio. Or better, shoot soft porn. That was what it was all about, after all. Maybe he would watch that too. Vivian naked in the sand. Hmm … Anyway, none of this had anything to do with the fascination of abandoned places. And this barracks had so much of it to offer.

“If we continue along this path through the forest, we will soon reach the residential block. From there, another path leads to the recreational facilities. There is a pool, a sports field and a theater, but it could also be used as a cinema. In parallel …”

“Sis, shouldn’t we take a picture of me in this outdoor pool?” Lasciviously, Vivian played with the strap of her top.

“Absolutely” laughed Yelka.

Why wasn’t she actually on his side? After all, he had planned the whole trip just for Yelka. Zander wanted everything to be perfect today. Yet, that wouldn’t work with Vivian and Damon. Honestly speaking, they shouldn’t have joined in the first place. When the forest suddenly opened up to reveal a settlement, Zander’s heart began to pound faster.

Weathered multi-story apartment blocks rose into the sky, overgrown with birch and fir trees. Moss clung to the entrance areas; ivy sought its way upwards. The scenery looked like a modern Sleeping Beauty castle, sprung from the premonition of a sinister dystopia.

For a moment, the group stopped and let themselves be captivated by the magic of the place. Speechless, their eyes wandered up the multi-story buildings, lingering on the dark building openings and absorbing the surreal atmosphere.

“This is incredible,” Yelka was the first to return to her words. She put an arm around Zander and hugged him. “Just incredible.”

Zander felt overwhelmed. His excitement was looking for a channel. “Considering that the residents lived here for 40 years, and nature has taken over for 30 years, then … well …” He didn’t know how to finish the sentence. Zander was overwhelmed, both by the place and by Yelka’s closeness.

“Darling sister, you can start thinking about whether you want to be photographed on the steps or the old climbing frame” Yelka indicated as she dug her camera out of the small backpack.

“The steps are great!” exclaimed Vivian, settling down on the moss-covered steps.

“Perfect,” Damon joined in again as well. “That looks excellent, starlet! Lie back, let your hair fall to the right.”

Zander walked thoughtlessly over the moss that covered the former street. Here, families must have once walked home, children played on the sidewalk, and vehicles drove north to the barracks. With a kick, he plucked the green from the ground and looked at the dark asphalt. This was how the place had been left nearly three decades ago.

He squatted down and let his fingers slide over the old pavement. A shiver came over him. At that moment, he felt the same fascination for these places as Yelka. Stealthily, he glanced over at his secret love as she took photos of her hot sister.

Vivian had leaned back dramatically, her chest up, her hair hanging down behind her. Her belly was exposed, her breasts pressed against the top. She stretched her long legs, like she was riding a bicycle.

Zander’s gaze drifted off to Yelka, who held her camera with both hands. She was shifting positions from time to time. Although she was wearing cargo pants, boots and gloves, she didn’t look one bit less sexy than her younger sibling.

He averted his eyes and let them roam over the facade of the apartment block again, only to look back over at the sisters.

“So, now …” Damon was about to intervene in the shooting when heavy dog barking made their blood run cold.

Yelka stopped her shots, Vivian lost body tension and Damon turned his head.

The big, short-haired yapper hung on the leash of a young guy in his early 20s. His tattooed arms were pumped up, stretching a red shirt. His chest jutted out as he stood wide-legged, holding the dog. A sharply cut face framed his full lips. He wore a gold necklace, his hair was shaved short. Behind him, four boys and a girl had set up. Two of them held metal pipes in their hands, brandishing them menacingly.

“Good day to you all!” The words didn’t sound like a greeting, but more like a threat. “This is private property. No trespassing!” As if to underline his words, the dog growled insistently. The group slowly approached. Those two men carrying the batons grinned menacingly. “The whole compound is surrounded by a concrete wall.”

Yelka was the first to speak up, “Hey, we’re just taking pictures, we’re not destroying or stealing anything.”

“So what?” told Ryder Yelka. “Fuck it, you guys are still illegal. There are signs on the outside walls and gates that state that this place is off limits.”

“Yeah, but you’re still coming here,” the dark-haired boy with the scratched forearm shouted.

“Even though it’s forbidden.”

The group had surrounded the four, leaving no way out. Gazoo barked at Vivian, tugging at Ryder’s leash.

“What you are doing here is forbidden, you know that.”

“Okay, we made a mistake,” Yelka tried to concede. “How about we pack up and get out of here?” Seeking help, she looked over at Zander, but he was transfixed.

“Yeah, you just thought so.” A grim smile played around Ryder’s face. “I want to see everyone’s IDs!”

“IDs out!” repeated Jesse, roaring.

Yelka looked at Zander first, then at Damon. “Please, let us just go our merry way and everything will be cool,” she offered the boys.

Damon had regained his composure and was surveying the situation. Yelka and Zander getting married would be more likely than these guys being security guards. There was danger in the air. They were in the middle of nowhere and were being threatened by a gang of rednecks, carrying a loose dog.

Dave lifted the steel pipe and touched Yelka’s chin. “Ain’t nothing cool here,” Ryder told them. “Either you show us your IDs or else.”

As if to make an example, Dave hit the ground with his club.

Yelka flinched. Gazoo jumped up at her, held back only by Ryder’s leash. “Chop, chop, IDs out!”  Ryder roared indignantly.

“I think we need to make a cut here!” With a brisk step, Damon put himself between Yelka and Ryder. “To me, it seems like a misunderstanding.”

For a moment, there was silence. Gazoo stopped barking, Dave’s steel pipe hovered in the air, and Ryder waited to see what Damon would say.

“My name is Duke. Damon Duke, of Duke Executives.” He spread his arms and stood between Ryder and Yelka.

“We rented this location today to hold a photo shoot.”

He pointed to Vivian, who was still sitting on the steps. “This is Vivian Donahue, one of our most important models, known as Violet-D.”

Damon waited a moment, watching the gang as they stared over at Vivian. He could see the aggression draining from the young men’s faces. Desire appeared in their eyes.

“We are taking pictures for the centerfold today. Vivian’s work needs a relaxed atmosphere. So, I’d be grateful if we could do the shoot without any further disruptions. Later, I’m sure she’ll have time for a short meet and greet with autographs. If you have any further questions, please contact Councilor Wilbanks. Please carry on, we don’t have any time to lose. Hush, hush!”

A stunned silence hung over the scene. The gang hadn’t quite taken their eyes off Vivian when it dawned on them that they had just been set up. Yelka and Vivian were already preparing to resume the photo shoot when Ryder suddenly straightened up again. “Are you kidding me? I want to see your fucking IDs–no photos until I say so!”

“Good,” Damon turned abruptly and held out his ID to Ryder, “that’s me, Damon Duke.” He gave him a moment to compare ID photo and face, then pulled out his cell phone. “And now I’d like to know what company you’re with.”

Damon held the phone to his ear and waited for Ryder’s answer. But he remained silent.

“Mr. Wilbanks, this is Damon Duke speaking. I apologize for the interruption. Contrary to our agreements, we were evicted from the place by security.” His and Ryder’s eyes met. “They didn’t hire any security at all? Then I assume this is a misunderstanding.”

Dave looked at Ryder, waiting for any reaction. But he just stared at Damon indecisively.

“No, I don’t think we need police here. Thank you very much, and again, I’m sorry to bother you.”

Damon dropped the phone into his purse, then pulled out a slew of business cards. “Here you go.”

First, he handed Ryder his card, then to the rest of the gang. “We’re still looking for security employees. If any of you want to make money, you’re more than welcome to contact me.”

Dazzled, the gang looked at each other. “Have a nice day! Now, starlets, we’ll move on to the next location.”

Ryder looked grimly after the Urbexers as they walked on. Soon they would find out what kind of a nice day they were going to have.

 

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About the Author

 

 

Jens Boele, a veteran media designer in
the entertainment industry, brings over two decades of cinematic
expertise to his writing. Born in Germany in 1975, Jens embarked on his
writing odyssey in his youth, culminating in the publication of his
debut book, “Sunshine,” in 2015. This was followed by “Hurensohn,” and
his latest spine-tingling creation, “Urbex Predator.” Jens is a
genre-bending author, specializing in horror and crime thrillers. His
narratives often blur genre lines, weaving intricate tales that plunge
readers into the darkest corners of the human psyche. Jens’s
storytelling brilliance lies in his fascination with the criminal mind;
his villains are always profoundly human, offering readers a chilling
examination of the psychological aspects of the criminally insane. Jens
sets himself apart by seamlessly integrating classic horror with the
gritty authenticity of the present day. This innovative fusion imbues
his narratives with a dynamic quality, seamlessly blending archaic
thrills with contemporary intrigue, resulting in an immersive reading
experience that resonates with both vintage enthusiasts and present-day
readers alike. Jens Boele’s latest endeavor takes his work across
borders, as “Urbex Predator” becomes his first book to be translated
into English. A globetrotter with deep connections to the United States,
Jens’s passion for exploration and his international perspective,
nurtured by family and friends in the US, shine through in his writing,
offering readers a captivating blend of horror and cultural diversity.
Visit Jens’ website at https://jensboele.com/.

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Sponsored By:

 

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The Diva Goes Overboard ~ A Domestic Diva Mystery by Krista Davis

Posted: May 18, 2024 in Cozy Mystery, giveaways
Tags: , ,
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The Diva Goes Overboard (A Domestic Diva Mystery)
by Krista Davis

 


The Diva Goes Overboard (A Domestic Diva Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
17th in Series
Setting – Old Town Alexandria, Virginia
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Kensington Cozies (May 21, 2024)
Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 336 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1496743423
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1496743428
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CHHN5D3Q

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For once, event planner Sophie Winston finds herself a guest at a lavish engagement party, but things go horrifyingly awry when the groom-to-be is fatally poisoned . . .

In Old Town Alexandria’s unlikeliest match, Natasha Smith’s free-spirited mother, Wanda, is engaged to notoriously pompous antiques dealer, Orson Chatsworth—leaving Natasha to plan the entire wedding, beginning with an elaborate engagement party. For the extravagant affair, Natasha splurges on trendy food boards created by rising social media star, Stella St. James. The sumptuous boards go way beyond basic cheese and crackers, as Stella dazzles guests with picture-worthy butter boards, dessert boards, and even doughnut boards. Just as Natasha planned, the food is to die for—until someone actually does.

When the groom collapses, it seems as if a heart attack is to blame. Then guests discover Orson was poisoned, and suddenly Stella’s bespoke boards look a lot less appealing. But with an event this big, the spread of suspects is sure to be impressive. Could Orson’s killer be a jilted ex-lover? A money hungry relative? A bitter former business partner? When even Sophie is not above suspicion, she knows it’s time to get on board and scrape together an investigation of her own . . . before murder becomes the town’s next trend.

Includes delicious recipes, fabulous decorating tips, and easy entertaining hacks!

Enjoy this peek inside:

Dear Sophie,

My seventy-five-year-old father is getting married! The bride and groom have been married before to other people and have adult children and grandchildren. They’re planning a huge wedding and the bride will wear white. I think this is in poor taste and they should quietly tie the knot at the courthouse in a civil ceremony by themselves. What do you think?

Tied in Knots in Loveland, Ohio

Dear Tied in Knots,

A wedding is one of life’s biggest and most lovely events. If the bride and groom want a big wedding with all the traditions that accompany nuptials, I think they should do it and celebrate in any way that makes them happy. There are no age limits on joy.

Sophie

On Sunday evening, when other people were settling in and getting ready to start a new workweek, I walked my mixed breed hound, Daisy, to relax after finishing up a busy week. An unpleasant waft of smoke reached me. Most likely from a fire pit in someone’s backyard, I supposed.

As an event planner, I often worked when others didn’t. I had just finished a major convention for the Federation of Pharmacists. They had been lovely to work with and their exhibits had been fascinating. It had been a major convention and I was ready for some downtime.

The sun had set in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, but the temperature was perfect for sleeveless attire. The balmy air made me feel summery and carefree. Porch lights and front door lights gleamed on Federal style homes, many of which had been built in the 1800s. Now and then I caught a glimpse of lights strung over a backyard and the sound of laughter.

We had no destination in mind. Mostly, I needed to stretch and relax, and Daisy needed to get outside and sniff the world. We ambled along until I saw a blaze. In the seconds that it took me to realize that it arose inside a car, it quadrupled in size.

I reached for my phone and called 911. “A car is on fire!” I gave the operator the name of the street and the closest cross street. “Hurry! The flames have moved from the front seat to the back.” I felt completely helpless. There wasn’t a thing I could do about it. Although we were a good distance away, Daisy leaned against my legs as if it scared her, too.

Sirens sounded louder than normal in the quiet night. They passed us and clanged to a stop. In minutes, firefighters had the fire under control.

One of the firemen recognized me and strode over. “I hear you called in the fire?”

“Yes. It was small and then whoosh, it grew so fast!”

He nodded. “Yeah, car fires will do that. Did you see anyone get out of the car?”

“No!” His question worried me. “I hope there wasn’t anyone inside.”

“We don’t think so. We’ll open the trunk and have a look as soon as it cools off.”

I shuddered to even imagine that possibility. I thanked him for responding so quickly and said good night.

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A Yummy Recipe For You:

Cold Mocha Coffee with Ice Cream

Makes 4

 

12-16 ounces coffee chilled (instant coffee or leftover coffee)

¾ cup cold milk

1/8 cup sugar

Vanilla ice cream

Chocolate sauce

 

Place the coffee, milk, and sugar in a blender. Mix well. Pour into tall glasses about ¾ full. Add a scoop of ice cream to each glass. Drizzle chocolate sauce over the ice cream.

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About Krista Davis

New York Times Bestselling author Krista Davis writes the Domestic Diva Mysteries, the Paws & Claws Mysteries, and The Pen & Ink Mysteries. Krista lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia with two dogs, two cats, and a hidden stash of chocolate. When she’s not writing, she loves to entertain her family and friends who complain when she tests her recipes on them. But she notices that they keep coming back for more.

Author Links: Website / Instagram / Facebook / Goodreads / Pinterest / Twitter/X

 

Purchase Links – Amazon Books A Million Barnes & Noble    Bookshop.org   Hudson Booksellers   Tantor Audio   Walmart 

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