Posts Tagged ‘magic’

Magic is messy…… Spell Sweeper by Lee Edward Fodi

Posted: November 22, 2021 in Children's books, Fantasy, giveaways, Magic
Tags: , , ,
6

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

Author Lee Edward Födi will be awarding a Spell Sweeper prize pack: Hand-made miniature broom, hand-made magical creature egg, spell bottle, and bookmarks to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Don’t forget to enter! And you can click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour and for more chances to win.

Spell Sweeper

by Lee Edward Fodi

Synopsis

There’s nothing magical about wizard school
. . . at least, not for Cara Moone.

Most wizard kids spend their days practicing spells and wielding wands, but Cara? She’s on the fast track to becoming a MOP (a.k.a. Magical Occurrence Purger). You see, when a real wizard casts a spell, it leaves behind a residue called spell dust—which, if not disposed of properly, can cause absolute chaos in the nonmagical world. It’s a MOP’s job to clean up the mess.

And no one makes more of a mess than Harlee Wu. Believed to be the Chosen One, destined to save the magical world, Harlee makes magic look easy. Which makes her Cara’s sworn nemesis. Or she would be, if she even knew Cara existed.

Then one of Harlee’s spells leaves something downright dangerous behind it: a rift in the fabric of magic itself. And when more rifts start to appear around the school, all in places Harlee has recently used magic, Cara is pretty sure the so-called “Chosen One” isn’t going to save the world. She’s going to destroy it.

It will take more than magic to clean up a mess this big. Fortunately, messes are kind of Cara’s thing.

Enjoy this peek inside:

Brooms aren’t for flying,

not even when it comes to wizards

* * *

These are the essential items in a spell sweeper’s kit:

Broom

Most people think broom + wizard = flying. But take it from someone who actually attends wizard school—no one straddles a broom and jumps from the top of a Dragonsong tower unless they’ve drunk too much of Madame Kree’s secret-recipe Halloween punch.

Goggles

Good for protecting your eyes from residue splatter or from the venom that an attacking creature might spray in your direction. I only use them when absolutely necessary because even wizards don’t seem to have conjured up a solution for preventing fog-up.

Sweeper scarf

These are woven from the fiber of elf’s breath (a very purple and very pretty plant), which has excellent properties for filtering out toxic fumes. We wear our scarves around our necks and pull them up around our faces when required.

Steel-toed boots

Because when dragons stomp, they apparently don’t mess around.

Gloves

Made with special residue-repellant material. A pretty good idea, because you definitely don’t want magical gunk under your fingernails.

Utility belt

Next to my broom, this is my most important piece of equipment because it’s where I store my broom snippers and vials of stain removers and neutralizers.

Barricade tape

When we do a purge in Bliss territory, it’s procedure to rope off the entire area to ensure no one stumbles upon any magical activity. Our tape reads: Chemical Spill Containment Site: Do Not Cross—because no Bliss would take Danger: Feral Magic at Work seriously.

Miniature dustpan

Useful in both the wizarding and the Bliss worlds.

Flashlight

Same.

About Author Lee Edward Fodi:

Lee Edward Födi is an author, illustrator, and specialized arts educator—or, as he likes to think of himself, a daydreaming expert. He is the author of several books for children, including The Secret of Zoone and the Kendra Kandlestar series. He is a co-founder of the Creative Writing for Children Society (CWC), a not-for-profit program that helps kids write their own books. He has the joy of leading workshops for kids in Canada, the US, Korea, China, Thailand, and other places here and there. Lee lives in Vancouver, where he shares a creative life with his wife Marcie and son Hiro.

Website / Twitter / Facebook / Instagram

Purchase links: Harper Collins / Amazon

~~~~~

GIVEAWAY

a Rafflecopter giveaway

~~~~~

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.

I am an Amazon Affiliate. Product images are linked.

Her past if far darker than she realized….. The Secret Of Drulea Cottage by Claire Kohler

Posted: August 19, 2021 in giveaways, Magic, Romance
Tags: , ,
12

Welcome to my stop on the virtual book tour for The Secret Of Drulea Cottage organized by Goddess Fish Promotions.

Claire Kohler will be awarding a $25 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Don’t forget to enter!

And be sure to click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour for more chances to win.

The Secret Of Drulea Cottage

by Claire Kohler

The Secret of Drulea Cottage (Betwixt the Sea and Shore Book 1) by [Claire Kohler]

Synopsis

Briony Fairborn, a midwife in eighteenth-century Scotland, comes from a family shrouded in scandal. Left with only one friend after her mother’s death, she has little hope of gaining any others, let alone finding a husband. Instead, Briony tries to live a quiet life and avoid her neighbors’ ridicule as much as possible.

But things in Everton take a drastic turn when a storm brings foreigners to the village docks.

On the night Santiago Mendes arrives, he comes with a broken ship, a broken leg, and a broken spirit that Briony finds herself profoundly drawn to. Her scarred heart slowly starts to open, and although Briony suspects he may be hiding something, she cannot help but dream of the possibility of love.

That is, until another stranger appears in town, intent on repaying a childhood debt. A dangerously handsome stranger who shows Briony that she’s even more different than she could have imagined. And that her past is far darker than she realized.

Magic, romance, and political intrigue collide as the secrets surrounding one Scottish woman begin to unravel. Secrets that she may not be ready to face.

Amazon

Enjoy the  Excerpt

“Capitão! Senhor Mendes! Come quick!” A sailor appeared in the doorway, his eyes distraught. “Silva went overboard!”

“Show me!” Santiago followed the sailor out, not bothering to check if Costa came too.

A monstrous storm the likes of which he’d never seen was swirling directly above the São Nicolau. Lightning descended in vicious bolts while giant black clouds blocked out all sunlight. Waves rocked the ship back and forth, making it almost impossible to stay upright. The mainmast started to bend; it wouldn’t be long before it collapsed.

Santiago gripped the side of the ship and made his way forward—

But something hit him from behind, propelling him toward the mast—

CRACK!

Santiago was on his back, trying to scramble out of the way, but he couldn’t quite move fast enough. The top half of the mast crashed down, landing on his right leg.

He cried out as pain tore through his body. It was so intense that he felt his mind swimming, drifting in and out of consciousness. He tried to pull his leg out, but it wouldn’t budge.

Santiago was trapped. “H-Help…”

Suddenly a silhouette appeared directly above him. Santiago’s heart leaped—

But then a pistol was in his face. With what was left of his strength, Santiago willed his eyelids to stay open. If this is to be my final moment, I’m going to make sure I look my killer in the eye.

About Author Claire Kohler:

Claire Kohler grew up in Mooresville, NC, as the eldest of four daughters. Her love of stories began at an early age, and as a child, she could often be found borrowing way too many books from the library and scribbling away in a journal.

In 2016, Claire became a full-time middle school English teacher in a public school. In her second year of teaching, she also taught social studies. After becoming pregnant in 2018, Claire decided to shift careers and become an online ESL teacher so that she could also take care of her newborn at home.

She now lives in Statesville, NC, with her husband, two children, and three cats. She is also an active member of Christ Community Church Mooresville, where she often serves as a Bible study and small group leader.

Claire plans to continue creating exciting historical fantasy novels and potentially branching out into other genres as well.

Website / Facebook

~~~~~

GIVEAWAY

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

~~~~~

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.

I am an Amazon Affiliate. Product images are linked.

Grave Humor by R J Blain ~ Spotlight and Giveaway

Posted: May 12, 2020 in comedy, Fantasy, giveaways, Romance
Tags: , , ,
14

Grave Humor

by R J Blain

A Magical Romantic Comedy
Publication date: May 12th 2020
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Paranormal, Romance

 

Synopsis

Most days, Anwen regrets working at a funeral home despite the good pay. With the residents no longer inclined to stay in their coffins where they belong, she’s got her hands full making sure everyone follows the rules:

In the funeral home, there is no screaming, no murdering, no mutilation, no possessions, no kidnappings, no resurrections, and no cursing of any type. Be quiet and stay polite.

The day Old Man McGregor decides to take a walk and disturbs her peace, Anwen learns there’s a lot more to the basement in the funeral home than a vampire and a handsome gentleman on ice.

If she’s not careful, she’ll learn first-hand why ‘eternally yours’ is the most potent of threats.

Warning: this novel contains romance, humor, bodies, shenanigans, and mythological puppies. Proceed with caution.

Purchase: Amazon / B&N / Kobo / Google Play
.

~~~~~

Author R J Blain

RJ Blain suffers from a Moleskine journal obsession, a pen fixation, and a terrible tendency to pun without warning.

In her spare time, she daydreams about being a spy. Her contingency plan involves tying her best of enemies to spinning wheels and quoting James Bond villains until satisfied.

Author links: Website / Twitter / Facebook / Instagram / Goodreads
,

~~~~~

GIVEAWAY

a Rafflecopter giveaway

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

You can find a list of my reviews HERE.

For a list of free eBooks go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

I am an Amazon Affiliate. Product images are linked.

Stolen Dreams ~ A Cassie Scot Novel by Christine Amsden ~ Blitz and Giveaway

Posted: July 30, 2014 in Blitz, Excerpt, giveaways, Mystery, Paranormal or fantasy, Romance, Series
Tags: , , , , ,
10

Stolen Dreams Banners 851 x 315

Welcome to the blitz for Stolen Dreams by Christine Amsden.

This is the final book in her Cassie Scot series and while I can’t wait to read it, I’ll be sad to see it end.

I love this series and each book gets more intense, more dangerous.

I have a peek inside the book for you and the spectacular cover art.

There’s also an awesome giveaway, so remember to enter and Good Luck!

Stolen Dreams

Cassie Scot , Book 4

by Christine Amsden

Stolen Dreams_med

 

Genre: Urban fantasy, mystery, romance, paranormal, new adult

Publisher: Twilight Times Books

Date of Publication: June 25, 2014 (ebook)

October 15, 2014 (paperback)

ISBN: 978-1-60619-281-8 / ASIN: Coming soon

Number of pages: 260 / Word Count: 84,000

Cover Artist: Ural Akyutz

 

Book Description:

 

Edward Scot and Victor Blackwood have despised one another for nearly a quarter of a century, but now their simmering hatred is about to erupt.

When Cassie Scot returns home from her sojourn in Pennsylvania, she finds that her family has taken a hostage. Desperate to end the fighting before someone dies, Cassie seeks help from local seer Abigail Hastings, Evan Blackwood’s grandmother. But Abigail has seen her own death, and when it comes at the hand of Cassie’s father, Victor Blackwood kills Edward Scot.

But things may not be precisely as they appear.

Evan persuades Cassie to help him learn the truth, teaming them up once again in their darkest hour. New revelations about Evan and his family make it difficult for Cassie to cling to a shield of anger, but can Evan and Cassie stop a feud that has taken on a life of its own?

Conclusion to the Cassie Scot series.

Stolen Dreams Button 300 X 225

 

Excerpt:

The Prologue

 

            Evan’s face stared back at him from a large glossy poster hanging in the front window of the local post office. The words “Wanted Alive” were splattered across the top in big red letters. Someone had cast an animation spell over it to make his hooded eyes shift slightly, as if in guilt. Evan had seen all that before, but a new addition to the bottom of the poster stopped him dead in his tracks: “One Million Dollar Reward.”

            “Crap,” he muttered under his breath. He looked around, more than half expecting an ambush right there on the street, but he saw nothing sinister. He reached within himself for his magic anyway, channeling it into a shield that would protect him from most magical attacks.

            A million dollars. This was going to bring out every crazy in the country! He had been fighting bounty hunters for over a month, ever since the wanted posters first went up, but then the reward had only been $100,000.

            The Scots were either getting desperate or stupid to try something like this. Rumors already abounded regarding his bottomless reserves of magic, making him out to be some kind of inexhaustible fountain of power. The million-dollar reward would only confirm these lies in the minds of many; which meant that if someone did manage to catch Evan, the Scots were unlikely to get their hands on him. Why would a bounty hunter settle for money when he could have Evan’s magic for himself?

            Evan turned away from the poster and was just about to continue down the street when a black Suburban turned into the post office parking lot, cutting him off. He waited for it to pull into a spot, his shields still up, his senses alert.

            Robert Scot, Edward Scot’s cousin, stepped out of the vehicle, threw Evan a dirty look, then went around to the back to pull a four-year-old girl out of a car seat. The presence of the child did not convince Evan to lower his guard, though he truly hoped they hadn’t sunk so low as to fight when an innocent child might get hurt.

            One million dollars. People had killed for far less, and had allowed children to become victims. Robert Scot was a strong practitioner, on par with Edward, but he didn’t have access to the secrets of alchemy, and he was not a rich man. He earned a good living as a bank manager or something, but one million dollars had to be a temptation.

            The two men did not take their eyes from one another as Robert walked into the post office. Robert clutched the wriggling child, who clearly wanted down, to his chest in an almost painful grip. A minute later he was past, and Evan breathed a little easier. He walked away from the post office, heading down the sidewalk in the direction of his Prius, parked a few stores down. He still had errands to run, but in light of what he had learned about the reward, they didn’t seem important.

            Suddenly, an explosion rent the air. Evan dove behind the nearby antique shop, his shields maxed out, his senses hyper-alert. When he peeked around the corner, he saw smoke and debris where there had once been a Suburban.

            The chubby face of the little girl filled Evan’s mind, and he felt a moment of terror as he wondered whether or not Robert and his little girl had already returned to the car. Practically flying from his hidden position, Evan sped back to the post office and that mockery of a wanted poster, his eyes searching the interior until they fell, thankfully, onto the shocked faces of Robert Scot and his daughter huddled safely inside the building.

            Robert’s face didn’t remain shocked for long; it fell into an enraged scowl. Robert shoved the girl into the arms of a nearby post office patron and marched outside to confront Evan man to man.

            “You son of a bitch! My daughter could have been in there. I almost left her there while I ran inside, but then I saw you.”

            “I didn’t do that. I ran back to make sure you were all right.” More the girl than Robert, but still….

            Robert didn’t respond with words; instead he let loose with a torrent of raw energy that battered Evan’s shields until he could scarcely hold them. Raw magic wasn’t normally a useful attack strategy, but powerful emotion could turn it into one for a short time. Another blast like that and Evan would be in trouble, but he had no intention of letting Robert get off another shot. He parried the attack with his own telekinetic gift, throwing Robert bodily backward, forcefully enough that he smashed through the wanted poster and the glass window, shattering it.

            Evan didn’t wait for Robert to get back up; he ran. He hadn’t caused the explosion, and he had no reason to finish a fight against a man he scarcely knew, but one whose family seemed to want to go to war with his.

            The worst part was that someone in Evan’s family probably had done it–they had been muttering for weeks that they couldn’t just let the Scots persecute him. Evan had begged them to give him time, but obviously time had run out.

            Robert wouldn’t care whether Evan had been personally involved or not, nor would the rest of the Scots. And maybe they were right. Evan would find out who had done it and set him or her straight, but the damage was already done.

            The first direct shot had been fired.

~~~

About Author Christine Amsden:

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

 

Christine Amsden has been writing fantasy and science fiction for as long as she can remember. She loves to write and it is her dream that others will be inspired by this love and by her stories. Speculative fiction is fun, magical, and imaginative but great speculative fiction is about real people defining themselves through extraordinary situations. Christine writes primarily about people and relationships, and it is in this way that she strives to make science fiction and fantasy meaningful for everyone.

 

At the age of 16, Christine was diagnosed with Stargardt’s Disease, a condition that effects the retina and causes a loss of central vision. She is now legally blind, but has not let this slow her down or get in the way of her dreams.

In addition to writing, Christine teaches workshops on writing at Savvy Authors. She also does some freelance editing work.

Christine currently lives in the Kansas City area with her husband, Austin, who has been her biggest fan and the key to her success. They have two beautiful children.

Website    Newsletter     Blog

Facebook     Twitter       Goodreads    Google+

~~~~

giveaway photo: Giveaway Banner for 42nd giveaway.png

$100 Amazon Gift Card

Click on the Rafflecopter below to enter.

Raffle button

 

Tour giveaway:  from July 15-October 15.

~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

To see all of my giveaways click on the lucky horseshoe below!

horseshoe photo: Horseshoe horseshoe.jpg

A whole lotta shifting going on ~ Valens Remembered and Valens Rise by Sherrel Lee ~ A Giveaway and my reviews

Posted: June 9, 2014 in Blog Tour, giveaways, Paranormal or fantasy, reviews, Science Fiction, Series, Shifters
Tags: , , , , ,
8

Valens Remembered Banner 450 x 169

I have so much to show and tell about this fantastic series, Valens of Legacy.

For each book, Valens Remembered and Valens Rise, I have a review, the authors fun Top Tens List, and a peek inside.

I love discovering a new series and this one has everything I want.

Check out Sherrel Lee’s Valens.

And don’t forget to enter the giveaway!

~~~

Valens Remembered, The Story Begins

Valens of Legacy, Book 1

Sherrel Lee

18858337

1771e-addtogoodreadsblack

 

Genre: Paranormal Fantasy Romance

ISBN: 9780985249687 / ASIN: B00CSTZSE4

Number of pages: 92 / Word Count: 26,324

MY REVIEW

Larinda has lost not just two parents, but four. Her biological ones and now her adoptive ones.

As she comes to term with this, she’s also having to accept and become a part of the Valens. Shapeshifters. The mark she carries is a unicorn and her 18th birthday, the time of her first shift is approaching.

When she takes control of the family business, a security firm called Legacy Protective Services, she discovers some papers her parents had hidden away. Now she wonders if her parents deaths, maybe even both sets, were accidental. Her suspicions are well founded when someone or something tries to kill her.

This story is told from two points of view.

The second character is Jemma. She’s a product of the street, never having a real family to care for her. She’s used to living defensively, watching out for herself.

When she’s offered a chance at security, she’s hesitant, knowing a gift horse can be anything but.

Larinda and Jemma couldn’t be more different. One knew loving parents, the other was a street kid. One thing they did share was a mysterious past, lost in childhood.

The author does a great job of world building in this short novella. Not a lot of detail, would like more, and I suspect I’ll get all I need in the next book in this series.

There are shapeshifters galore, mysteries a plenty, and many characters to care about and some not so much. All the makings of an exciting series.

4 STARS

~~~~~

 

Book Description:

 

Do you love reading about ShapeShifters? Psychics? Genetically Engineered Monsters?

Get your free copy of Book One of the Valens of Legacy series now.

As Larinda Nix Thomas buries her adoptive parents, who died in a deadly echo of the accident that took her birth parents, hidden documents reveal that she is being threatened by a sinister force and that she shouldn’t trust even her closest allies. Fate demands she accept her place among the Valens as a shapeshifter, a unicorn, which brings more changes to her life than she could have imagined and puts her on a collision course with her ultimate destiny. In this first book of the Valens of Legacy series myth is rewritten, fantasy and science fiction blend to create a chilling story of death, loss, and discovery.

Struggling to make a life for herself on the streets of Seattle, Washington–Jemma a, runaway is battling to stay safe and unmolested, find legitimate work, and secure an education. Concerned social workers search for her and other runaways to return them to the lives they escaped from. True friends are few and life has made it hard to trust anyone. The memory of loving family no longer exists.

Meet the women who can’t remember their past. Discover their stories. Begin the journey into the world of the Valens of Legacy.

Available at Amazon and BN

Excerpt 1:

Larinda

 

Larinda Nix Thomas watched, eyes filled with tears, as her parents’ coffins were lowered into the ground. The rain took no pity on the mourners who had gathered. It blew in past the edges of the tent, dousing everyone who had come to say their last goodbyes.

Grant Mayfair and Griffin Hawke, senior executives with Legacy Protection Services and personal friends of Larinda’s family, stood sentinel beside her. Larinda struggled to hide how much she blamed them for her loss. Legacy, and all the resources at their disposal, hadn’t protected her adoptive parents. Grant and Griffin hadn’t been there to safeguard Boyd and Fiona, and now she was forced to stand beside their graves.

Larinda hugged herself, stroking her shoulder where the mark that resembled a unicorn was hidden under her jacket. Today the comforting habit didn’t work.

Grant reached out and drew her hand into his. “I know you’re hurting,” he murmured. “It’s so difficult to lose those you love to a senseless accident.” He gave her hand a squeeze and raised it toward the numerous friends, employees, and customers who had come to share her grief—and whose safety and livelihoods depended on the company her parents had built. “You can trust that I’ll be here for you,” Grant said. “Help take some of the burden off your shoulders.”

Reclaiming her hand, she gave Grant a weak smile. It didn’t last long.

Senseless accident? Or something far worse? The thought swirled through Larinda’s mind.

Ambassador Magellan came forward to shake her hand. “Larinda, please forgive me. I have duties to address, but I had to let you know Legacy’s services are not in jeopardy because of your loss. I’m sure Mr. Hawke is very capable of stepping in until you are better prepared for such vast responsibilities.”

Larinda stared blankly at the politician as he walked away. Step aside? I know I’m not completely prepared for this, but—just let Hawke take over? Looking at the faces of the men and women who gathered to comfort her, she suddenly wondered how many of them expected the same thing.

Her parents had carefully groomed her in preparation for the day she would take control of Legacy. She had been immersed in Valens culture and schooled in the obligations she would inherit from the day she had become a member of the family. Even at that young age, she’d understood that their pride and high standards were the reason for the success of the two-hundred-year-old company. Boyd’s parents had established the global enterprise and built it into a world-renowned security firm celebrated for protecting presidents and kings.

They had depended on her to carry on when they were gone. She was a Thomas, even if not by birth, and as long as her family survived, they would remain in control of Legacy. It was the least she owed the people who had given her so much.

 ~~~~~

 Valens Rise

Book Two

18241383

1771e-addtogoodreadsblack

MY REVIEW

**Warning: this is book two in the series. May be some spoilers **

I knew I wanted more as soon as I finished the first book in this exciting series, Valens Remembered.

Now that I’ve read Valens Rise, I’m hooked.

The story takes place a couple of years later. Jemma’s been working for the clinic , doing well for herself. For the first time she has security and a place of her own.

That all changes when she gets the phone call. She has a sister she never knew about. A sister she’ll never get to know, and she’s named Jemma in her will.

Jemma is wary of these strangers and what they tell her. And she becomes convinced they’re all lunatics when they reveal what they are. What she is.

The author stepped up her game in this second book. The world is expanded and filled in, the shapeshifters are over abundant and so fantastical, bordering on science fiction, and a love interest begins.

Jemma has grown and become a favorite character for me. She uses her street smarts to protective herself and take the advantage. The author made her transition from street kid to mature young woman believable, which couldn’t be easy as Jemma isn’t just a human, she’s a Valens too.

This second book is longer than the first, but I read it almost as fast, tearing through each page, devouring the action, and loving every minute of it. And, as with the first book, I want more please. Now!

5 STARS

~~~~~

Synopsis

When Jemma Nix, a shapeshifting phoenix discovers her family’s heritage, she is overwhelmed with distrust and doubt. Her entire family may have been murdered. Her mentor may be using her in a deadly pursuit of power.

Confronted with these facts, Jemma begins to suspect that those closest to her are mad. Refusing to believe their claims of a secret race, she pushes away the one man who may be able to help. The one man who she may be destined to love. Rather than face the reality of her new life, Jemma makes a fateful decision. One that places the Valens in jeopardy and forces them to face a deadly, genetically engineered threat.

~~~~~

Excerpt – Chapter One –First Week in November

 

Jemma slipped the hood of her jacket over her hair and crept onto the night-darkened porch. Crouching low, she checked the rain-swept city street for her pursuers. All seemed quiet. She straightened up, readying herself to make a run for it.

As soon as she moved, a man burst out of the shadows of the next building. Gilbert—the man who had tried to abduct her just a few days ago. He ran toward her, calling over his shoulder, “She’s here!”

Behind him, three six-foot-long, DNA-altered snakes slithered down the sidewalk. Adrenaline surged through Jemma and she jumped off the porch, dodging her attacker, who lunged forward to grab her. She pulled her arm in close to her body and spun to her left, barely eluding him. She caught a glimpse of the snakes’ white, human faces just behind him—like demon children from a horror film. The fear of their poisoned fangs pushed her onward, heart pumping.

She dashed down the street and around the corner, realizing her mistake too late. She’d turned down an alley—one with no exit at the far end. She was trapped.

Gilbert appeared at the mouth of the alley, the snake creatures close behind. Desperate, Jemma scooped up an empty liquor bottle lying on the ground and threw it at him. Her aim was off and it went low, catching him in the shins and tangling his legs. He stumbled and fell hard onto the rain-drenched pavement.

Jemma ran further down the alley, looking for a door, a fire escape—anything. All she saw were two padlocked doors. She turned to face her attackers. The snakes were gliding toward Gilbert’s prone body. With terrifying swiftness, they struck, burying their fangs in his face and neck.

The man rolled and twisted in pain, his mouth open in a silent scream. Jemma, frozen in shock, watched the venom’s swift course through his body. The major muscle groups contracted violently in turn, forcing his arms and legs into unnatural positions. The creatures drew back and studied Gilbert’s tortured thrashing with the intensity of children observing a pinned bug, and then glided away.

The poison finally reached Gilbert’s lungs, stealing his breath. She watched in horror as foam bubbled from his nose and mouth.

Jemma wrenched her gaze from the horrific sight. Standing at the open end of the alley was her former teacher, watching Gilbert’s death throes with avid pleasure, his evil pets writhing and circling at his feet. He raised his eyes to hers, and a slow smile spread across his face.

She was next.

~~~~

Have fun with the authors Top Tens List!

Top Ten Vampire Movies I love

30 Days of Nights

Blade

Blood Rayne

Dracula (30s)

From Dusk ’till Dawn

Van Helsing

Lost Boys

Ultraviolet

Daybreakers

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

***

 

Top Ten Shapeshifters

 

Sirius Black (Padfoot) Harry Potter

LadyHawke from the movie

Gigul – Jaye Wells Books

Beast – Faith Hunter books

Mercy Thomas – Patricia Briggs Books

Josh and Nora – Being Human – Television show

Elena – Bitten by Kelly Armstrong

Black Dagger Brotherhood – J. R. Ward

Dark Hunter – Sherrilyn Kenyon

Jacob – Twilight

***

 

Top Ten Songs I Write To

Dark Horse – Katy Perry

Brave – Sara Bareilles

Try – Pink

Blow Me – Pink

Somewhere with You – Kenny Chesney

Need You Now – Lady Antebellum

Something’s Got a Hold On Me – Christina Aguilera

Thriller – Michael Jackson

Secrets- Jacob Goth

Summer in the City – The Lovin’ Spoonful

~~~~

 

About Author Sherrel Lee

Image of Sherrel Lee

 

Wrangler of a fearsome Yorkiepoo named Rogue (Half Yorkie half Poodle weighing in at a hefty five pounds). Obsession controlled writer with a passion for making up names and twisting myths.

Sherrel, as the daughter of an Emmy winning cameraman, learned early in life the dark secrets of creating all those incredible fantasy characters for the large and small screen.

Refusing to be crushed at the discovery the monsters, aliens, and Robby the Robot weren’t real, Sherrel’s imagination soared. She became a SELF-proclaimed voyeur of special-effects and expert at fictional character creation.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Amazon ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads ~ StoryFinds

~~~~~

giveaway photo: Giveaway Banner for 42nd giveaway.png

Tour giveaway:

5 ebook copies of Valens Rise, Book 2, The Valens of Legacy Series – Electronic format of choice (US, Canada and international)

5 prize packs open to US Shipping Only- Each prize pack contains -1 Paperback of Valens Remembered, The Story Begins , Book 1 of the Valens of Legacy Series; 1 Paperback of Valens Rise, Book 2, the Valens of Legacy Series; Valens Remembered lined note book; Bookmark; Coupon for Valens Rise from Smashwords; Key-chain with image of a Phoenix

Click on the Rafflecopter below to enter.

Raffle button

~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

To see all of my giveaways click on the lucky horseshoe below!

horseshoe photo: Horseshoe horseshoe.jpg

Teri Brown’s Born of Deception ~ Cover Reveal Plus A Giveaway

Posted: October 11, 2013 in Cover Reveal, giveaways, New Release, Paranormal or fantasy, Series
Tags: , , , , , ,
8

BOD Cover reveal

When I first laid eyes on this cover I was thinking, OOH, flappers and some snazzy sequined gowns.

I pictured a crowded speakeasy, with jazzmusic blasting and couples twirling on the dance floor.

I discovered there are illusionists and psychics and a mystery to solve!

I’m in!

Check out this stunning cover art and don’t forget to enter the giveaway!

YOu could win a signed ARC!

Untitled-1

1771e-addtogoodreadsblack

Synopsis

Budding illusionist Anna Van Housen is on top of the world: after scoring a spot on a prestigious European vaudeville tour, she has moved to London to chase her dream and to join an underground society for people like her with psychic abilities. Along with her handsome beau, Cole Archer, Anna is prepared to take the city by storm.

But when Anna arrives in London, she finds the group in turmoil. Sensitives are disappearing and, without a suspect, the group’s members are turning on one another. Could the kidnapper be someone within the society itself—or has the nefarious Dr. Boyle followed them to London?

As Cole and Anna begin to unravel the case and secrets about the society are revealed, they find themselves at odds, their plans for romance in London having vanished. Her life in danger and her relationship fizzling, can Anna find a way to track down the killer before he makes her his next victim—or will she have to pay the ultimate price for her powers?

Set in Jazz-Age London, this alluring sequel to Born of Illusion comes alive with sparkling romance, deadly intrigue, and daring magic.

Book Links: Goodreads / Amazon
 .
~~~~~
Teri Brown
.
BOD author pic
 .

I’m not sure who to tell you about here because I’m actually two people rolled into one. As a responsible mother of teens, I show one persona to the world. That person is driven, conservative and level headed. But the other part of me just never grew up. She is rebellious, impulsive and curious.

It’s hard being both these people. They’re often at odds.

The mother part of me knows I should put a cap on how many animals we take in. The teen part of me wants to save them all. We have five cats and two dogs. Who do you think is winning?

Even now. The mother part wants to make a meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and a tossed salad. The teen part wants to order a pizza, work on my website and check my Facebook.

Luckily, though my two halves don’t always agree, both of us live happily in Portland, Oregon, with a husband and too many animals. And we both love to write and write and write..
~~~~~
giveaway photo: Giveaway Banner for 42nd giveaway.png
.
Win a signed ARC of Born of Deception!
Giveaway is open to US Only. Must be 13+ to Enter
Sorry to my International friends.
Click on the rafflecopter link below to enter.
~~
BNTlogo_zps0ef8528c
.
Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!
For all of my giveaways go HERE.
Related articles

Teaser Tuesdays #42 ~ Elysian Fields by Suzanne Johnson

Posted: October 9, 2013 in Mytery/Thriller, Series, Teaser Tuesdays, urban fantasy
Tags: , , ,
8

Anyone can play along! Just do the following:
• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page.
•Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

~~~~

My Teaser for today is from Elysian Fields

by Suzanne Johnson

16059404

goodreads-badge-add-plus

My Teaser

I slammed the truck door behind me. “What a horrible day.”

“I thought every day you got to commit arson was a good day.” Alex stared straight ahead, eyes focused on traffic, but his mouth twitched.

“Go ahead and laugh. You can’t help yourself.”

The twitch turned into that crease at the corner of his mouth, just on the left side, that was about the sexiest thing going.

From page 108

When you read what led up to this conversation you’ll see why I think of graffiti gone wrong!

~~~~

How about you? Got a tease? Tell me!

stick out tongue photo: rr-sticking-out-tongue roadrunner-stick-out-tongue.gif

Related articles

The Blood Destiny Series Giveaway ~ Fire ~ Magic ~ Rage

Posted: September 30, 2013 in Blog Tour, giveaways, Interview, otherworldly, Paranormal or fantasy, Series
Tags: , , , , ,
33

Check out this series!

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

Welcome Helen Harper and her Blood Destiny Series.

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway!

But first, a quick interview with Helen!

Image of Helen Harper

1. What are 5 things within touching distance?

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

2. What is your least favorite word?

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

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

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

4. What is your favorite Joke?

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

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

BLOOD DESTINY SERIES

by Helen Harper

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

BLURBS:

Bloodfire

Bloodfire1

.

goodreads-badge-add-plus

cfe8d-am

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

~~~~~

Bloodmagic

Bloodmagic1

.

goodreads-badge-add-plus

cfe8d-am

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

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

~~~~~

Bloodrage

bloodrage1

goodreads-badge-add-plus

cfe8d-am

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

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

~~~~~

giveaway photo: Giveaway Banner for 42nd giveaway.png

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

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

Click on the rafflecopter link below to enter.

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY

~~~~~~~~~~~~

About Helen Harper and where to find her books

Image of Helen Harper

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

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

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

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HarperFire

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

goddess fish button

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways go here.

Related articles

Release Day Celebration for Falling Stars by H.D. Gordon!

Posted: September 15, 2013 in Release day, reviews, Romance, Series, YA Fantasy
Tags: , , ,
4

falling stars BANNER FSBLOGTOUR

Happy Release Day to H.D. Gordon and Falling Stars!

To celebrate, Heather is offering Falling Stars, Book Two and Shooting Stars, Book One for the awesome price of 99 cents each! Don’t miss out on this amazing deal!

~~~

I’m reposting my review so you don’t have to leave to read it. You can go HERE for my interview with Heather.

When H.D. told me she had completed writing Falling Stars and asked if I’d like to read it I did this

snoopy dancing photo: dancing snoopy dancingsnoopy.jpg

I was all over this book and finished it in record time.

Now I get to tell you all about it, and I promise there will be no spoilers, as this is the second book in the series.

Pageflex Persona [document: PRS0000038_00064]

goodreads-badge-add-plus

Only 99 cents today!

Get your copy by a simple click on the button below!

cfe8d-am

Synopsis

Surah Stormsong’s life has fallen down around her in the past week. Her father is in a coma induced by demon poison, two Highborn Sorceresses have been murdered, and a crazed Sorcerer by the name of Black Heart has made it his mission to take the kingdom for his own. As princess, and next in line to the throne, Surah is his primary target. But he’s not the only one she has to look out for. Now, Surah is on the run, having just helped Charlie Redmine escape from the castle dungeons. This makes her a traitor in the eyes of many, as Charlie is not only a common man suspected of murder and treason, but also Black Heart’s younger brother. The stars are crossed against the two lovers, the universe trying to keep them apart. In the end, will the stars align for Surah and Charlie, or will they fall from the heavens, dead and lifeless, like the tears of angels?

My Review

H.D. has done it again!

I’ve read her Alexa Montgomery Saga, every one, and just like with them, this series just keeps getting better.

I loved Shooting Stars, just loved it. Now that I’ve read Falling Stars, I’ll tell you, it’s so much better. Not to say the first book wasn’t awesome, but with each book, H.D. ups her standards and rises above it every time.

This book grabs hold of you with the first sentence and never lets you go.

My favorite books are character driven and the stars of the Surah Stormsong Series are incredible.

Surah is wonderful. She’s smart yet impulsive, self-confident yet vulnerable, scared yet double-tough. And Charlie has her acting all girlie.

“…this man, just had a way of making her feel like a silly teenager, which was ridiculous considering she was older than most creatures on Earth. For the first time in a very long time, she felt as young as she looked, which was no older than twenty.”

I had such a great time getting to know Surah better. Wait until you read how she cleans house. Wish I could do that.

Charlie. Charlie is delectable. Sexy and sardonic, confident,and shy. How could I not love Charlie. What worries Charlie, worries me too. Will Surah still feel the same about him when she learns his secret. A secret that will shoot straight to her heart?

“The Charlie Effect.”

Another thing H.D. does really well is the romance. This is the second book and Surah and Charlie are slowly falling in love. It’s not instant love but a fondness built on getting to know each other. That makes it much more fun to read. You want them to finally say it, to admit their feelings, and that keeps you pouring over the words, looking for it.

Then there’s Black Heart, Charlie’s brother. He goes deeper into his lust for revenge and is hooked up with Tristell, the Fae Queen. Boy, what a twisted affair that is. Neither one shows any feelings for others. That makes them the perfect diabolical companions.

Follow one of their conversations if you can.

“Michael is always thinking inside of boxes,” she said.

He sighed, “And Tristell is always speaking in riddles.”

I can’t forget Samson, Surah’s tiger. He’s been left behind at the castle while Surah and Charlie are on the run and he’s being very sneaky, staying in the shadows, watching and listening as sorcerers whisper and conspire in dark places. I love reading his thoughts. He’s almost human sometimes, then his tiger side comes through. Wouldn’t want to be on his bad side.

There are some wicked creatures and extreme action in this story. I wouldn’t expect anything less from H.D. Her fight scenes are almost graceful when described. You can practically see the action, feel it, and hear it. Just like her characters, it’s all so real.

Some scenes remind you that Charlie and Surah both can be cold-blooded and it chills you when they exact punishment. And at some points in the story you almost can’t discern their individual voices. That’s how well this is written. You begin to understand how similar these two are, how they think alike, how well they go together, like soul-mates.

“I can only breathe right when you’re breathing beside me.”

Most excellent writing.

As the story races to the finish, you wonder how anything can be alright, how anything good can happen. Each time you think it’s going okay, something goes horribly wrong, taking you in another direction. I felt as Surah so eloquently put it,

“However this ends, wherever this is going, it’s going to effect a lot of people. Innocent people. I can feel that in my blood…I just hope whatever role I play isn’t one that causes heartache and pain.”

There’s so much more I want to tell you. I have nine pages of notes. But I’m going to let you read this super awesome story and find out for yourself.

One more thing. Watch out for the ending. It will rip you up one side and down the other. This ain’t over.

Prepare to be enthralled. I was and still am.

5 Stars

~~~

A quote I just have to share with you. So Poignant.

“Because she was, after all, a princess, and she wanted so badly to believe her story would end in happily ever after.”

~~~

Shooting Stars, Book One

Shooting Stars

c7f8b-goodreads-badge-add-plus_zpsa971cb04

Click on the button below to get your copy for only 99 cents right now!

cfe8d-am

My 5 Star Review

Synopsis

Surah Stormsong is one of the most powerful Sorceresses in the world. She is a princess who is next in line for the throne. As someone who has lost almost everything to this world, she only wants to pull away from it and live a normal life, but when Highborn ladies start being murdered and the Black Stone-a weapon that is capable of great destruction-goes missing, she is called upon to solve the issues and return her people to a state of safety. But danger lurks inside the castle walls as well, and when she runs into Charlie Redmine, a common Sorcerer Surah met once as a child, things grow complicated very quickly. He is the main suspect of the murders, but Surah is powerless against the connection she feels to him. Time is ticking, and if she doesn’t figure out what’s going on things will go from bad to worse, and an entire kingdom will suffer for it. From the author of the bestselling series, The Alexa Montgomery Saga, comes a tale of star-crossed lovers and magic, of hope and love and loss. The greatest question is, can love overcome all?

~~~~

About H.D. Gordon

H.D author pic shooting stars

H. D. Gordon is the author of The Alexa Montgomery Saga. Blood Warrior, the first book of the Alexa series was her debut novel and has held a spot in the top 100 fantasy bestsellers for over a month. Half Black Soul is the second book in this series and H. D. plans to complete Alexa’s tales by the end of 2012. In June of 2012, Joe, a fantasy novel about a young clairvoyant, was released as well. H. D. is a lifelong reader and writer, a true lover of words. When she is not reading or writing she is raising her two daughters, playing a little guitar, and spending time with her family. She is twenty three years old and lives in the northeastern United States.

You can follow H.D. Gordon at:

Blog

Author Facebook Page

Twitter

Goodreads Author Page

H.D.Gordon Facebook page

Webpage

Goodreads Fan Club

H.D. Gordon’s Books

The Surah Stormsong Series

  Pageflex Persona [document: PRS0000038_00064]

The Alexa Montgomery Saga

       

JOE

Related articles

Giveaway ~The Witches of Dark Root ~ As the Witching Hour Chimes

Posted: August 29, 2013 in Blog Tour, giveaways, Magic, Paranormal or fantasy
Tags: , , , ,
5

Witches of Dark Root Banner 450 x 169

Do you ever wish a fantasy could be real? That magic and the supernatural really exists?

I think I’d like to visit Dark Root, to meet these witches, and get to know  Maggie.

Join me in the tour for The Witches of Dark Root. I have a fun trailer for you. a glimpse inside the book, and a fantastic giveaway!

But beware of the darklings.

The Witches of Dark Root

goodreads-badge-add-plus

The Witches of Dark Root
The Daughters of Dark Root Series

April Aasheim

 Genre: Paranormal/Fiction

Publisher: Dark Root Press

 Date of Publication: June, 2013

 ISBN-13: 978-0615819327 / ISBN-10: 061581932X / ASIN: B00D6OUDDG

Number of pages: 350

Word Count: approx. 112,000

Cover Artist: April Aasheim

cfe8d-am

Book Description:

Deep in the forests of Central Oregon is a town called Dark Root, a place shrouded in secrets, mystery, and witchcraft.

But for Maggie Maddock, Dark Root is also a prison, a place where she is forced to spend her days working in her mother’s magick shop, forfeiting any dreams of her own. So when a mysterious stranger suddenly appears and offers to take her away from it all, Maggie jumps at the chance.

Now, seven years later, a strange phone call sends Maggie back to Dark Root and she is unprepared for what awaits her: a dying town, a sick mother, a renewed sibling rivalry, and a past she had hoped to forget.

Part Practical Magic, part Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood, The Witches of Dark Root is a tale that seamlessly weaves the normal with the mystical, the mundane with the fantastic. Zipping in and out of time from Maggie’s childhood as an apprentice witch to current day, where Maggie struggles with her increasing powers, as well as family obligations, The Witches of Dark Root is a book rich in both fantasy and heart which will leave readers believing in magic.

.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klihdS5tQr4]

.

Excerpt:

Harvest Home, Dark Root, Oregon

October, 1995

 

“Maggie, wake up.” Merry jostled her sister, rousing her from her nap on the couch.

Maggie sat up, rubbed her eyes, and looked around. For a moment she forgot that she was in the living room of Harvest Home.

“Already?” Maggie asked, pushing herself onto elbows.

A loud chime coming from the grandfather clock confirmed that it was midnight, time for the ritual. Maggie felt the chill from the open door and looked around for her sweater.

“We aren’t supposed to wear anything other than our robes tonight,” Merry cautioned, but helped Maggie into the sweater, anyways.

“Where’s Eve?” Maggie asked. If she was going to have to wander the woods in the middle of the night for some crazy ritual, then Eve better be up, too. Maggie saw her standing by the door, jumping up and down, not tired at all.

Miss Sasha and six of her friends emerged from the dining room, talking excitedly and exchanging knowing glances.

“You girls ready?” Miss Sasha asked. This was to be their first grown up moon chant and Miss Sasha could hardly contain herself. She noticed the sweater Maggie wore over her long blue robe and frowned but didn’t mention it.

Merry, Maggie, Eve, and Ruth Anne followed their mother and her friends into the night.

It was cold and the sisters shivered as they wound their way along an old dirt road shrouded by trees to a circular clearing, a half-mile away. The girls had played in the clearing many times during the day, but this was the first time they had seen it beneath the light of a full moon. The grass looked dewy and lush as the soft light fell upon each blade, but the trees that surrounded the meadow looked foreboding and ominous, as if their long, twisted boughs were ready to snatch the girls, if given the chance.

“What are we doing here again?” Maggie asked, as they made their way towards the center of the circle. “…And how long do we have to stay out?”

The adults moved to a point in the very center of the clearing and the girls positioned themselves a few dozen feet behind them.

Ruth Anne surveyed the area and sat, cross-legged, on the moist grass. “We are rooting out the evil spirits that are trying to infest Dark Root.” Her voice was as flat and informational as an encyclopedia entry.

She reached into the pocket of her dress and pulled out a key-chain flashlight and a comic book and started reading.

“How do we do that?” Maggie asked, watching as the elders––five women and two men––linked raised hands towards the sky.

They began singing, a soft melodic chant that Maggie had heard before.

Merry answered, “Every fall, the Council of Seven places a protective spell around our town. It must be done before the second half of the year begins, on November 1st. It keeps out the dark energies and ensures that the circle is strong.”

Maggie hopped on one foot, and then the other, trying to find warmth in the chill of the night. “But why do we have to do it now?” she moaned. “When it’s so cold?”

Ruth Anne responded, never lifting her eyes from her book. “It’s the witching hour. According to legend, the hours between twelve and three AM are when all things magical, including witches, are at their most powerful.” She turned the page of her book and cracked a smile at one of the drawings. “…It’s too bad we can’t keep out the crazy.”

Maggie widened her eyes. “But if witches are the most powerful now, won’t the bad things be more powerful too?”

“I’m scared,” Eve said, jumping in place as the elders continued their chant. Eve liked magick, but only the lighter arts, and those that yielded her a reward.

Merry took Eve’s hand and kissed it, and Maggie latched onto Merry’s other hand.

“I’m scared, too,” Merry fibbed.

Merry wasn’t afraid of anything.

There was a long silence, followed by the heavy beat of a loud drum. Miss Sasha looked over her shoulder at her daughters, letting them know that it was almost their turn. They had been practicing the spell for weeks now, and Maggie hoped she wouldn’t forget the words.

Ruth Anne set down her comic book and the four girls clasped hands and waded towards the center of the circle.

Miss Sasha nodded and the girls began their incantation.

As the Witching Hour chimes

And the whole world sleeps and dreams

We join our hands in sisterhood

Staving back the darklings

The circle stands, its shape eternal

Though the darkness is still beckoning

Our light will ward back the infernal

And shield us from the doomsday reckoning

Maggie was still tired and stumbled on a few of the words, completely missing some of them; however, Merry spoke them as loud and clearly as she recited The Pledge of Allegiance at school. All the while, Eve played with her hair and hardly tried at all. For her part, Ruth Anne recited the words without emotion, anxious to get back to her comic book.

“Who wrote the spell?” Ruth Anne had asked their mother earlier that day while they were preparing. “It doesn’t sound right.”

“It doesn’t matter if it sounds right or not,” Miss Sasha had explained. “It’s the power of words––especially when spoken in numbers––that matters. When we stand together, no enemy would dare traverse the boundaries of Dark Root.”

Maggie caught a movement to her right. She thought she had seen a dark form take shape and then vanish. And then another. Were they coming or going? She couldn’t tell.

~~~

Witches of Dark Root Button 300 x 225

~~~

About the Author:

April Aasheim

April Aasheim spent her childhood traveling the Southwestern portion of the United States with her fortune- telling mother and her get-rich-quick dreaming stepfather. During that time, April and her family toured with a carnival company, sold bug repellant door to door, and resided in an abandoned miner’s shack in The Superstitious Mountains of Arizona.

When April became a teenager she went to live with her biological father in California. Her father saw April’s need to express herself and encouraged her to write her stories rather than tell them. By learning to write April was able to make sense of her family and the world she lived in. She continues to do that to this day.

April currently lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband. She is the mother of two incredible sons and the step-mother to a beautiful little girl. She is the author of numerous short stories, has contributed to several anthologies, and is the author of the well-received novel: The Universe is a Very Big Place.

The Witches of Dark Root is The first in the Daughters of Dark Root series and April looks forward to writing the second book in 2014.

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

Website: http://www.aprilaasheim.com/

Blog: http://aprilaasheim.blogspot.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AprilAasheim

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6535145.April_Aasheim

~~~~~

giveaway photo: Giveaway giveaway.gif

A Tour Wide Giveaway
1 Prize back featuring a mug, keychain, pen, signed book and a few assorted other goodies- open to US Shipping
5 Kindle Versions of the book gifted from Amazon
3 Signed Paperbacks sent to winner- open to US Shipping
~~~~

Click on the rafflecopter link below to enter.

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways go HERE.

Older Entries