Tag Archives: Fiction

January 7, 2023 · 7:46 am

Strangers on a Street by Tamrie Foxtail ~ A Friday the 13th Story Series ~ #Fridaythe13th #Blog #Fri13thStories

Happy 2023! It’s almost release day for a series of horror short stories revolving around Friday the 13th. I will be sharing each story on my post, one per day. Today, I’m pleased to welcome Tamrie Foxtail with her story, Strangers on a Street…

Fun Fact:

Night train

 

There’s a train that runs through my town around ten at night and occasionally (though with less predictability) in the mid-morning. On the one hand I love the sound of the train, on the other, there’s a little, macabre corner of my mind that waits for the sound of a crash.

*** Pre-Order the Friday the 13th stories for only 99 cents!!! 

Tamrie

Amy Lee dreams of escaping her brutal husband. Following a chance encounter in a grocery store her dream becomes a reality. Or has it become a nightmare? The stranger down the street is threatening to turn over evidence that she’s guilty of murdering her own husband unless Amy helps rid him of his wife.
Can Amy escape a madman’s threats? Or will she be forced to resort to murder to keep the freedom she’s only recently gained?

 

A Friday the 13th Short Story: 13 authors ~ 13 suspenseful stories. Murder and mayhem on Friday the 13th… Find each story in the series on Amazon.

Excerpt:

“Prison. Such a nasty place. And of course, they’ll think you murdered your husband so you could collect the life insurance. You’ll lose the money. When you get out of prison, you’ll have nothing. Except a record, of course. Such a pity.”

“The police will never believe I killed him.”

“Of course, they will. If they start to think the accident that killed your husband might not have been an accident…they’ll start to investigate. They’ll start asking who would have had reason to kill him. The spouse is always the first suspect. When I tell them I saw him hit you they’ll start checking into the number of times you’ve been in the ER. They’ll start looking at who he spent time with. They’ll come up with Maddie Crown. They’ll check her alibi and her husband’s of course. They’ll come up with a theory that you either found out about his lover—perhaps he told you he was going to leave you for her—they’ll come up with three motives.” He held up one finger.

“One, you found out about the affair and killed him.”

He held up a second finger. “Two, you killed him to end the abuse.”

A third finger joined the first two. “Three, you murdered your husband in order to collect the life insurance.” He shrugged. “Or perhaps all three. It’s simple. You waited by the tracks and flagged him down. You hit him with something in order to stun him or render him unconscious. It didn’t take strength to get the car from the RR crossing to the tracks. You inherit the house, the life insurance. You get out of an abusive marriage. You have plenty of motive. I have none. Just like you have no motive to murder my wife, while I’ll inherit plenty of life insurance, the house, etcetera.”

He stood and slipped the bracelet into his pocket. “I’ll be in touch, Amy.”

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Bio:

Tamrie Foxtail was raised in the sunshine state. She married the best man she ever met, an Okie who brought her to the Sooner State.

She loves books, carousels, scrapbooking, and coffee. She works with the special education program in her local school district.

Find all 13 stories at this link: A Friday the 13th Story #3

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January 6, 2023 · 10:20 am

Rosemary by Connor Treadway ~ A Friday the 13th Story Series ~ #Fridaythe13th #Blog #Fri13thStories

Happy 2023! It’s almost release day for a series of horror short stories revolving around Friday the 13th. I will be sharing each story on my post, one per day. Today, I’m pleased to welcome Connor Treadway with their story, Rosemary…

Fun Fact:

 

dreamstime,canstock,veer,123rf,deposit,panther,fotolia,bigstock,pond5

Connor Treadway is the pen name for a writing team based in northeastern Florida. When brainstorming ideas for the story, they realized “Old Florida” is the perfect setting for a horror story with Gothic flair.

*** Pre-Order the Friday the 13th stories for only 99 cents!!! 

Rosemary IG (1)

 

 Disturbing dreams that feel all too real…

When Ivy Powers inherits her great-aunt’s gorgeous but neglected Victorian home, it feels like a dream come true. Recently divorced and eager to leave a job she hates, Ivy relocates from New Jersey to Passaway, Florida. The tiny hamlet is the type of place tourists visit for a taste of Old Florida–spanish moss dripping from craggy old oak trees and gators in the swamps.

Ivy’s dream soon turns into a nightmare when she begins renovations on the old house and its overgrown rose gardens. Her sleep is plagued by visions of a shrouded woman, a reflecting ball, and the scent of rosemary, which lingers even after she wakes. The mysterious old man who watches from an attic window next door also spooks her, until he persuades her to join him for tea in the garden, an afternoon custom he shared with his late wife.

Are the dark forces invading Ivy’s dreams a threat…or a warning? Can she find the truth before it’s too late or will the garden claim her and bury her with the rest of its secrets?

 

A Friday the 13th Short Story: 13 authors ~ 13 suspenseful stories. Murder and mayhem on Friday the 13th… Find each story in the series on Amazon.

Excerpt:

Tonight, the pockets of shadows created by great swags of Spanish moss and dense sprawl of bushes seemed darker and denser. Instead of guarding the garden’s secrets, the inky depths yawned like gaping chasms into some kind of hellish underground. Rosemary hunched in the wheelchair, pulling the blanket higher as if to ward off some vague threat.

“I’m safe here,” she reminded herself in a whisper, slowly scanning the area as if to identify the source of her disquiet.

Everything appeared unchanged—the sprawling canopy of live oak limbs, the looping ropes of kudzu and spiky palmetto fans, the path of cracked stone pavers that zig-zagged off in both directions, the squares of yellow light from nearby houses masked by leafy branches, the gleam of the sun’s final glow flaming ominously in the mirrored gazing ball set atop a pedestal on the other edge of the clearing where Rosemary had set up the bistro table and chairs years ago after she and Jeremiah were first married.

Finally, she realized what was different. It was the silence. No cicadas sang. No whippoorwills called from the woods. Not even a mosquito hummed in the clinging shroud of moisture. Usually, summer nights buzzed with a riot of sound—the deafening roar of cicadas, the hoot of barred owls, the scrabble of lizards in the undergrowth, the muted sounds of domestic activities as neighbors settled in for the night, the musical clatter of windchimes, the huff and puff of wind as if the garden itself was inhaling and exhaling.

The quiet swelled into a pulsing presence that filled the garden, throbbing against Rosemary’s eardrums, immobilizing her body, blurring her vision. She wondered if she was having a heart attack, but the sharp snap of fingers inches from her nose pulled her from the invisible mire.

“Goddamn, woman. It’s too early to fall asleep.” Jeremiah’s tone was harsh, impatient, angry. Blinking to clear her sight, Rosemary cringed away from her husband’s scowl which suddenly transformed into a benevolent grin that was somehow even more frightening. “Don’t want you to miss our evening tradition, my dear. Time for me and you. Together. Just us. All alone in your beautiful garden.”

Connor Treadway

 

Bio:

Connor Treadway is a pen name for the writing team behind Gothic thrillers and mysteries. The duo is based in northeastern Florida.

Find all 13 stories at this link: A Friday the 13th Story #3

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January 5, 2023 · 7:11 am

Hell is Empty by Mark Edward Jones ~ A Friday the 13th Story Series ~ #Fridaythe13th #Blog #Fri13thStories

Happy 2023! It’s almost release day for a series of horror short stories revolving around Friday the 13th. I will be sharing each story on my post, one per day. Today, I’m pleased to welcome Mark Edward Jones with his story, Hell is Empty…

 

Fun Fact:

 

Depositphotos_346559014_XL

Three characters in Hell is Empty later play roles in the Detective Henry Ike Pierce series.

*** Pre-Order the Friday the 13th stories for only 99 cents!!! 

 

Mark

The worse monsters are human.

A man’s wife dies unexpectedly in Brno, Czechoslovakia, and his teenage foster daughter, Miomir, comes under suspicion after four of the girl’s classmates die by poisoning. Professor Filíp Nekola must protect his younger wards, siblings brought to him six years earlier when a government assassin, Karanosz Tasev, killed the children’s parents. A detective appears, offering information that Tasev seeks Miomir.

Nekola is detained by the Czech government’s secret police, the StB, and the children are left alone with Miomir and her friends. They witness the teenagers performing a dark ritual to destroy Miomir’s enemies. Filíp Nekola must escape the secret police, rescue the children, and stop the assassin Tasev before he steals another life. The worst monsters are human.

A Friday the 13th Short Story: 13 authors ~ 13 suspenseful stories. Murder and mayhem on Friday the 13th… Find each story in the series on Amazon.

Excerpt:

Pipe smoke blanketed Stepan Hrubý’s face. The boy flapped his hands and made a show of waving away the pungent haze.

Filíp Nekola clenched the pipe’s bit with his teeth, pulled off his right glove, and yanked his handkerchief from a pocket. He wiped his eyes, then glanced down at his companion. A smile broke across his face as he stroked the boy’s dark hair. “Three months today, young man. She grew so fond of you and Eliska.” Filíp shook his head and sighed. “My dear Berta.”

Stepan rubbed his hand along the top of the marker’s rough granite stone. “Sorry, Papa Filíp. Remember, though, the best day of the year is coming in twelve days.”

Filíp nodded. “Yes, Christmas is coming, and it will be my first without her.” He wiped a cheek. “But we will try to make it merry.”

The boy pulled his winter cap tighter around his ears. “Yes, sir. It is Lisky’s and my favorite holiday. Why do some people not celebrate?”

“You are speaking of Miomir?”

Stepan frowned, thinking of the older girl the Nekolas had fostered. “She is one, but many stores have nothing in their windows. Lisky says—”

“Never mind. So … where is your sister?”

Stepan shrugged. “She likes to look at the gravestones.”

Eliska emerged through leafless bushes near a marble bench. “I am here.” Stepan’s sister kneeled next to him and examined the dates, touching them as she read. “April 3, 1927, and September 13, 1974. Are those correct?”

“Yes. The stone carver did well.”

“Barunka is a funny name,” Stepan said, then covered his mouth. “Sorry.”

Filíp nodded. “Yes, she did not like it—a family name, I believe, and it is why I called her Berta.”

“I like the black stone,” Eliska said.

“I do, too.” He smiled. “Thank you both for coming with me.”

Stepan smirked. “We wanted to come with you instead of staying with the witch.”

Eliska giggled.

Filíp put a finger to his lips and scowled, determined to act as if he did not feel the same. “No, no. We should not talk about Miomir in such a manner. She is sixteen, and teenagers are rebellious, among other things. I am sure she grieves in her own way.” He took each child’s hand. “My feet are freezing, and I do not doubt yours are, too. Come along. The taxi is waiting.”

 

Picture1

Bio:

Mark retired from higher education finance in 2017 and started writing as a new career. The first of the Detective Henry Ike Pierce series, Peculiar Activities, was published in October 2021. The second in the series, Shadowed Souls, released on Halloween 2022. A Gentleman from the Darkness was his first short story, and his first in a Friday the 13th series.

Find all 13 stories at this link: A Friday the 13th Story #3

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January 4, 2023 · 1:30 pm

The Devil Sheds a Tear by Robert Herold ~ A Friday the 13th Story Series ~ #Fridaythe13th #Blog #Fri13thStories

Happy 2023! It’s almost release day for a series of horror short stories revolving around Friday the 13th. I will be sharing each story on my post, one per day. Today, I’m pleased to welcome Robert Herold with his story, The Devil Sheds a Tear…

 

Fun Fact:

Female death asking to keep silence

 

I imagined some of the Seattle area’s rich and famous (unnamed of course) were actually members of murderous covens!

*** Pre-Order the Friday the 13th stories for only 99 cents!!! 

Bob

Hiding from a homicidal coven of modern witches, Steven Metcalf thinks he is safe. The devil-worshipers are not through with him, and a deadly game of cat and mouse ensues. Will joining forces with a witch-hunter save his life?

A Friday the 13th Short Story: 13 authors ~ 13 suspenseful stories. Murder and mayhem on Friday the 13th… Find each story in the series on Amazon.

Excerpt:

I made it to the door and yanked the knob with sweaty hands, but it wouldn’t open. I swung around. Ken emerged from beneath a library table across the room. He held the knife. Tim lay flat on his back with a pool of blood around his head. Though I’d never been violent in the past, I hoped I’d killed him.

            Ken strode over to the body and commanded, “Get up.”

            Tim stood. He straightened his nose, fetched two teeth from the floor, and reinserted them. Then he lifted the hem of his robe and swiped blood from his face. He looked at me and grinned. “Naughty, naughty.”

 

Picture1

 

Bio:

Robert Herold has had a fascination with horror since he was a child and his mother refused to allow him to watch creature features on tv. She caved in (well, not literally). Herold hopes his books give you the creeps in the best way possible. 

https://robertheroldauthor.com

Robert Herold (@RobertHerold666) / Twitter

Bob Herold (@robertheroldauthor666) • Instagram photos and videos

Robert Herold | Facebook

Amazon.com: Robert Herold: Books, Biography, Blog, Audiobooks, Kindle

Robert Herold Books – BookBub

 

Find all 13 stories at this link: A Friday the 13th Story #3

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July 26, 2019 · 7:33 am

Enter your fiction ebook in the IDA contest – Deadline July 30 – Low on Entries!!

 

Deadline approaching!! Enter by July 30!

We need short stories!! The contest is low on short story/novella entries in ALL categories and low on novel and short entries in the following categories:

Erotic

Inspirational

Young Adult

This is a great time to enter in those categories.

Here are just a few of the perks:

~ Great prizes

~ Bragging rights

~ A chance to get your book in front of potential lifelong fans

~ Low entry fee

Enter your short, novella, or novel fiction in a contest where you’re judged on your STORY, not on how many friends vote for you. Readers will judge and score your work, based on their enjoyment of it. Even if you don’t place, you will gain exposure to at least three new readers!

Fee: $25.00 for Novels, $20.00 for novellas and short stories (2017 and 2018 winners and finalists receive 50% off)
Deadline: July 30, 2019

Eligibility: Any ebook with a copyright date of 2018 or 2019 that was available for sale in 2018 or 2019 and is NOT available for purchase in mass print. (Ebooks that are available as POD’s are eligible) *** If your book previously finaled in, but did not win, the IDA, it is eligible for re-entry.

Entry: Non DRM PDF as email attachment

Categories: (All of the following offer BOTH a short/novella and a Novel category in each genre) Contemporary, Erotica, Historical, Inspirational, Paranormal, Suspense, Young Adult

Judges: Readers, including other unpublished and published authors.

Prizes:

  • First place winners will receive an engraved paperweight. Winners and finalists will receive certificates. PLUS – additional prizes for winners include…
  • Featured on a minimum of 3 blog posts
  • Featured in a “winner” video trailer that will be shared on FB, tweeted, and featured on at least 3 blogs and websites
  • Multiple Tweets and Facebook posts
  • Featured on a special IDA Winners Pinterest Page

FMI: https://okrwa.com/contests/international-digital-awards

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April 2, 2017 · 9:13 am

Liz Tyner Author Interview & New Release: The Wallflower Duchess

Please help me welcome a dear author friend from my Oklahoma Romance Writers group and a mega talented writer, Liz Tyner…

 

So glad to have you here, Liz. Where did you get the idea for The Wallflower Duchess?

I’d written about the duke in The Notorious Countess and made him irritatingly perfect. I wanted to write a story about a man who felt pressured to be correct. People agreed with him because of who he was, and not necessarily because he was right all the time, so he knew no one would tell him when he was wrong.

What is the most difficult thing with writing this particular book?

I wanted both characters to be introverted and controlled. I based the hero’s personality on Tommy Lee Jones, and I kept looking at the dialog and thinking, “Tommy Lee Jones wouldn’t say that.” That was a learning experience for me in characterization. About halfway through the book I decided to just let the characters talk to each other. Tommy Lee Jones had to get another role.

Are there any tricks or habits you use when creating a story?

I have tried almost every writing inspirational trick I’ve ever heard of. A timer. Listening to motivational tapes. Writing at the library. Mostly, a word count calendar keeps me on track.

What do you dislike that most people wouldn’t understand?

Telling the plot of one of my novels. The only way to experience a book is to read it.

What do you want your readers to come away with after they read The Wallflower Duchess?

Besides the romance, I hope the readers like the sisters’ relationship and the handkerchiefs. The scenes with the windows and the characters using handkerchiefs as signals were my favorites to write.

You mentioned the scenes you enjoyed writing. Is that why you write?

Writing is a part of me. I can give you all sorts of reasons of things that happened in my past that led me to want to write. But what I really believe is that it’s a part of my being much like the color of my eyes or hair. It just is.

What do you want your readers to take away from your books?

A diversion from life. A moment in another world. Perhaps a bit of whimsy or humor added in their day.

And, one final question. If you were to wake up and find yourself in heaven, what is the first thing you’d like read in the newcomers orientation manual?

We don’t have allergies here. Or alarm clocks. But we have maid service and a thermostat dial that lets you control the seasons.

Great interview…I know what you mean about writing being a part of you. So true! Please tell us about your book. 

 

Excerpt:

Edge had botched the first proposal terribly. But he wasn’t going to botch the first kiss.

He moved Lily slightly, turning her so he could savor every second and give her a feeling she would cherish.

‘This is how it starts,’ she said, whispering, shaking her head, turning away. ‘It’s not safe.’

‘One kiss,’ he said, knowing it was likely the biggest lie of his life.

‘No.’

But she didn’t push away. She didn’t move to her feet—she just sat, and leaned closer against him.

‘Half a dozen, then.’ He didn’t smile, again letting her hair brush his face. ‘Twenty. And that’s my final offer.’

 

Buy links:

http://www.harlequin.com/storeitem.html?iid=69871

https://www.amazon.com/Wallflower-Duchess-Harlequin-Historical-ebook/dp/B01LZFO0QB/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1490462970&sr=8-2&keywords=liz+tyner

Bio:

Liz Tyner first became published when she sent four lines of her high school assignment to a national magazine to use as a filler. Her articles and photos have appeared in numerous trade and regional publications, but her heart lies in writing romance. The Wallflower Duchess is her sixth book to be published by Harlequin, a division of Harper Collins. Coincidentally Harper Collins began as a small shop in 1817—the same time frame as her novels are set.

 

Find out more about Liz at:

Blog: http://www.liztyner.com/

Facebook:     https://www.facebook.com/liztyner2

Twitter:   https://twitter.com/LizTyner1

Pinterest:   https://www.pinterest.com/liztyner1/

 

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March 25, 2017 · 8:27 am

Author Interview with Lisa DeVore ~ New Release: Sebastian’s Castle

I am very pleased to introduce today’s guest. Lisa DeVore is one of my Wild Rose Press authors. I had the pleasure of working with her on her debut novel, and on a handful of stories since. She’s a sweetheart of a person and a wonderful author. I love her and her stories. 🙂 Her latest is an excellent ghost story/romance. She’s here to tell us all about it, after her interview:

Please tell us a little about yourself, where are you from? Where do you live now? Family? Pets?

My name is Lisa DeVore. I was born and raised in Alliance, Ohio (about 20 miles NE of Canton, Ohio…home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame). I have been married to my best friend for nearly twenty-three years. Our oldest son, Lewie, is twenty-one, and works with his dad doing custom restoration on old hot rods and motorcycles. Our son, Cole, is eighteen and will be graduating in June, and off to college to study computer technology. And our “baby” girl, Jessica, will turn sixteen on my 50th birthday March 27th. She’s all about driving right now. We have three four-legged kids, Smitty & Wess, who are toy fox terriers (and brothers from the same litter) and my mini-pin, Chester.

Where did you get the idea for “Sebastian’s Castle”?

My hometown, Alliance, has its very own castle…Glamorgan Castle. The mansion was built from 1904-1909 and is now home to the Alliance City Schools’ administration. As a student and resident of Alliance, I’ve grown up around the castle, and have shared its beauty and history with my kids. It inspired the castle in my book, from the layout to the breathtaking chandelier. However, I don’t believe Glamorgan Castle has any secret passages. Who knows though? The ghost came naturally…what castle doesn’t have a ghost? Sebastian’s last name was, also, borrowed from William Henry Morgan, owner of the Alliance castle.
For more information on Glamorgan Castle- http://www.alliancecityschools.org/glamorgan-castle-history

Why did you choose this genre (is it something you’ve written in before)?

This is my first “ghost” story, but the suspense genre is not new to me. I have to say, it was fun to write!

Was there anything unusual, any anecdote about this book, the characters, title, process, etc, you’d like to share?

I have toured and visited Glamorgan Castle many, many times since I was a child, and know its history as well as my own, but prior to writing “Sebastian’s Castle” I took two tours. I wanted to feel the rooms, and the history. I wanted to see it as my characters, Brynn and Jax might see it, and imagine them there. Having that template for Brynn’s Mystic, CT castle made it come alive for me, and, I hope, my readers.

What is the most difficult thing about writing a book? 

The most difficult thing about writing a book, for me, is time. I haven’t, as yet, experienced writer’s block. My writing takes me on dips and curves that I don’t even see coming. I have really given up on outlines, because my stories always take turns along the way, and I never keep to one. And, I may start off with a hero and he ends up the villain. I just never know!

Are there any tricks, habits or superstitions you have when creating a story?

Music. It inspires me. For each book, I have a theme song I listen to.

What book have you read that you wish you had written?

“Gone With the Wind.”

(Me too!!) Do you have another occupation, other than writer? If so, what is it and do you like it?

My day job is accounting for an electrical distributor. I work part time, and I do like it. My degree is in accounting, so it’s good to be able to use that knowledge. And I work with some great people.

What’s the main thing that you could get rid of in your life that would give you more writing time?

Absolutely, without question, social media.

What’s your favorite book of all time and why? What’s your favorite childhood book?

My favorite book of all time is the Bible. It inspires, calms, and gives hope. It has stood the test of time, and there is always something new to learn from Its pages. My favorite childhood book is “Green Eggs and Ham”. I loved that book! I read it so many times as a child, and to my kids, that I knew it by heart!

If you could spend time with a character from your book, whom would it be? And what would you do during that day? (PG-13 please 🙂

It would be Sebastian Morgan from “Sebastian’s Castle”. How cool would it be to spend a day with a ghost? I am a geek when it comes to history, and I would spend the day annoying him with questions about his life, and what it was like to live in his time.

Who is the most famous person you have ever met?

Last May, I met my favorite singer, Scott Stapp (the front man of Creed, Art of Anarchy). His life experiences are in his music, and have inspired many. He has been criticized, and persecuted in the media, but he stays true to his style of writing, and gives God the glory. He is truly a kind man who loves God, his family, and fans. It was a pleasure meeting him…and he gives an amazing concert!

Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Nora Roberts. I don’t believe there’s one book she’s written whose characters didn’t come alive to me. Her stories have so much depth. She is a master at putting her reader in the moment.

What is your favorite…

Movie– The Patriot
Music– Rock
Place you’ve visited- Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Clearwater, Florida
Place you’d like to visit- Salem, Mass.
TV show from childhood- The Brady Bunch
TV show from adulthood- Once Upon A Time
Food– Pizza
Sports team– Cleveland Indians!!
Which do you prefer: Board games/card games or television? Television

Love the interview, Lisa. I enjoyed learning more about you. Now, please tell us about Sebastian’s Castle…

Blurb:

Being married to a cop is hard, being the widow of one is harder. After Brynn Austin’s husband, Nate, was murdered in an undercover operation, there wasn’t enough evidence to convict the gang leader who killed him. Brynn refuses to let him kill their dream to renovate an old Connecticut castle. But her plan is hampered by a ghost who’s not ready to give up his home.

Contractor Jaxson Maddox signs on to renovate the old castle that’s sat empty for years. He didn’t believe the rumors about the place being haunted. But that was before he met the resident ghost. What Jax didn’t sign on for was trouble in the form of falling for the beautiful widow, dealing with a pesky ghost, and risking his life when a threat from Brynn’s past surfaces. He’ll do whatever it takes to protect her, even if it means becoming a ghost himself.

Excerpt:

Light shone in through the windows, but the space wasn’t any less creepy. Old cobwebs hung from the rafters, and dust particles danced in the sunlight. She hoped there wasn’t a family of raccoons, or worse, living here. Brynn pushed those thoughts
from her mind and kneeled in front of the trunk with the screwdriver. She’d never tried to pick a lock before, but there was a first time for everything.

“If you’re set on nosing around, I would rather you used the key. It’s under that pile of books.”

Brynn jumped to her feet and swung around to face the voice. She gripped tightly to her only weapon, the screwdriver.

There he stood, the same man she saw the other day. “Who are you?” She backed toward the wall, holding the screwdriver in front of her. “You’re trespassing.”

“No, my dear, you’re trespassing. This is my castle. I should be asking you the questions.”

Brynn’s eyes bugged out as she really took a look at him. His image was fading in and out. “No,” she said aloud, “it can’t be.”

“My dear, you don’t look well.”

“You’re a…” She patted her face.

“A what? I’m a what?” His face faded and returned.

“You’re a ghost!”
Buy Link:

https://www.amazon.com/Sebastians-Castle-Lisa-DeVore/dp/1509213325/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

Bio:

Lisa DeVore is a romantic suspense author for The Wild Rose Press. Her active imagination started at an early age in her NE Ohio hometown, complete with its own castle. She’s an avid reader, loves the beach, dolphins, and sunshine! Yes, she’s a misplaced Floridian. Lisa stays busy utilizing her accounting degree, spending time with her husband of 20-plus years, their two sons and daughter, 2 toy fox terriers, and one mini-pin. And she enjoys spending time in the worlds she creates. Lisa made the Amazon best-seller list for her debut novel “Beautiful Music”, and is excited to announce the release of her fourth book, “Sebastian’s Castle”.
Contact Links:

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

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/mrsldevore

Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=Lisa+DeVore

Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Lisa-DeVore/e/B00KMHIWRY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1490133627&sr=8-1

 

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February 4, 2017 · 5:00 am

Stolen Secrets by Elizabeth Alsobrooks

Check out a new release from fellow AHA Author, Elizabeth Alsobrooks – Welcome, Elizabeth!

 

Stolen Secrets is a romance spinoff from my Illuminati (Urban Fantasy) series, so is much more character driven and oriented than what is usual for me. It’s steamier, of course, and the hero is hot, hot, hot, if I do say so myself.  Here is who I pictured when writing this:

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I’m sure you can see how princely he looks? What English gal stranded in Cairo could resist such a persuasive hunk? Well, the heroine, Lady Isabella Valentine tries, but being a romance I guess you know how it ends . . . .

Here’s how it begins:

Everything about the shop was irregular, including the displays which projected at odd angles, supported by ornate wooden brackets and the occasional book case or other Egyptian artifact. Its merchandise had been collected and added to over a lifetime of adventures, and the result was vastly eclectic and often mismatched and even mysterious. The windows of the cluttered antiquities dealership, not yet shuttered, allowed slanted sunlight to illuminate dust motes, thick and insidious, seeking every crevice and ornate feature in which to drift. Brushing her hand across the table to clear it of its most recent layer, Isabella unrolled the map and traced the route with her fingertip.

She heard the bell above the front door jingle, waited for the expected greeting, and sighed. Five minutes later and Misha would have arrived to clean and bar the entrance, and then she could begin preparing for the dig of a lifetime.

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Offered an enormous sum by an anonymous benefactor for the acquisition of an ancient ceremonial relic, a sum that would keep the antiquities shop in Cairo her father left her afloat while she continued her own archaeological pursuits, Lady Isabella Valentine was distracted rather than tempted, then suspicious, when the dashing young Bedouin slipped in just before closing and promised her a deal she couldn’t refuse–for the very same relic. Despite his sensual appeal, she did refuse him, sending him away.

Prince Mukhtar, son of Sheikh Abdul Kummel al-Rahman, leader of the Hassana, is on a sacred Illuminati mission for Queen Isis to retrieve something stolen from one of her temples over a thousand years ago. This mortal disbeliever though an enchanting English rose, however beautiful she might be, is clearly in the power of the Usurper and must be persuaded to help him, one way or another. But neither of them know of the evil power they are up against, or what hidden dangers await them in the tomb of the high priest.

Available for preorder on Amazon, for sale in kindle, nook and trade paperback on Valentine’s Day!

Author Website: www.elizabethalsobrooks.com

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January 26, 2017 · 8:31 am

Author Interview with Jennifer Perkins ~ Upcoming Release: Daring Return

Another fun interview…please help me welcome Jennifer Perkins…

  1. Where did you get the title for your book?

Since I’m writing for the Carly Phillips’ Dare To Love kindle world, I knew Daring Return would be a sports themed book. Lucky readers here are getting a sneak peak of my cover since it hasn’t been revealed yet! The sport in my novella is football and I wanted to have my title reflect this. Originally, my working title was Daring Rebound. My children pointed out that my original title was more for basketball and they helped me retitle it for football. Ha, they’re bigger fans than me! Who knew?

  1. Some authors have said life sometimes gets in the way. Have you experienced this?

Haha. I have to laugh, because I was originally scheduled to be here several months ago, but life did happen to get in the way. My husband had knee surgery last year due to a fall and this week he had his sixth knee surgery. After the original operation, he’s been fighting infections. The first infection cleared, but he had a secondary infection. Between administering his medication through his picc line, taking care of the house (I actually wired a light fixture into our bathroom), and bringing him where he needs to be, I carve out time to write. It’s tough, but here I am at midnight creating the stories I hope my readers love to read.

  1. Are there any tricks or habits you use when creating a story?

Some authors I know write their stories by creating the characters first, some like to create the location first. I like to think about a situation or conflict and how two general people might resolve this. After working out the conflict, I like to create the actual characters and then try to see what location would best fit the story.

  1. Would you rather have a bad review or no review?

Reviews are very personal and there could be a myriad of reasons for what a person writes. I feel there’s value in any review, good or bad and they can help a writer grow. Having said that, I generally have a rule when reading reviews of books I think I’d like to read or a product I wish to purchase. I tend to not read the five star reviews. I find a lot of those come from an author’s friends and or family so they may be biased. I also tend to stay away from one star reviews, since I’ve found a lot of those are complaints on delivery or other issues not related to the actual book or product.

  1. What genre have you never written that you’d like to write?

Oh, good question. I have a few ideas for thrillers, something that might be along the lines of a Steven King thriller. I’d love to tell you about these, but they’re still in the idea stage. They’ve been on my mind lately and actually something I might try and develop later this year.

  1. What would you want your readers to come away with after they read Daring Return?

I’d like to think they’re moved in some way by this and any of my stories. I like to write sweet, so Daring Return is outside my comfort zone. This story has a BDSM flair, a first for me, and I hope the readers enjoy the way the story evolves. I believe readers like to experience stories and become immersed in our created worlds. Sometimes readers read for a reprieve from the turmoil their own lives take and I’d like to think I helped.

Thank you for joining me, it was great getting to know you. Now, please tell us about your book…

 

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Blurb:  Rose Perez is a physical therapist who shares a secret with Miami Thunder halfback, Bruce Hawkins. They also have separate careers outside of their shared world that could become derailed if their secret gets out. Neither had wanted a relationship. Does Rose have what it takes to look past the life Bruce is trying to portray or is she starting to fall in love?

Bruce decided early in life that true love was something other men wanted. Does he have what it takes to help Rose find real happiness without risking his heart?

Excerpt:

Before Bruce could say anything else, he heard the slam of Rick’s phone in his ear. The noise factor was probably one of the reasons Rick hadn’t used his cell. After the falling out he had with Rose, Bruce decided she’d be the best person to work with. He’d acted as a jerk, not letting her explain what happened. He needed to give her the benefit of the doubt and if he had to, he’d apologize to her. This day couldn’t get any worse. Then Bruce’s phone rang and he saw Randy’s number on the display.

“How much are you looking for or are you calling to tell me you found a real job?”

“That’s no way to greet your little brother,” Randy said.

“You stopped being my brother when you decided drugs, booze, and women were more important than family.” Bruce got out of his car and slammed his door shut in frustration. This was one conversation he’d rather not have.

“That’s why I’m here. So we can bond. Actually, it was mom’s idea. She suggested I crash here with you a while. You know, maybe pick up some kinda inspiration.”

Bruce had just gotten in the elevator and punched the number for his floor when his brother’s request registered with what he said. “What do you mean crash here? Where the hell are you?”

“Sitting on your couch looking at the great views you have. You know you’ve got a really nice place.”

 

Release date is Feb. 28th in Dare To Love Amazon kindle worlds – Author’s Amazon buy link page: https://www.amazon.com/Jennifer-Perkins/e/B01M992WVJ/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

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Bio:

Jennifer Perkins grew up in a small New England town where quaint neighborhoods still remain hidden. This combination has led to a sweet mix of her love of family, romance, and imagination.

With a degree in Marketing, she’s held a potpourri of jobs. She’s an active member of RWA. Her two young adult children, while pursuing their careers are, with her husband, her greatest cheerleaders. Jennifer lives in Florida with her husband. When she isn’t dreaming of interesting ways to enable everyone to join in her characters’ lives, she loves to spend time with family, garden, dabble in photography, and go for long walks on the beach.

Contact Links:

Website:    http://www.authorjperkins.com/

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

Twitter:      https://twitter.com/AuthorJPerkins

Pinterest:    https://www.pinterest.com/authorjperkins/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15968745.Jennifer_Perkins

 

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March 11, 2016 · 11:37 am

Ramblings of a Lifelong Elvis Fan – Part 74 – Featuring Elvis in My Books

[INTRO: I am a die hard, card carrying Elvis fan and have been for as long as I can remember. There is so much about Elvis to love; his incredible singing voice, his generous spirit, his looks (the most gorgeous man ever), his movies (yes, his movies. They make me happy, so critics can just shush), his service in the army, his magical presence on stage, his transcendent charisma, and…I could go on and on. As a matter of fact, on my 50th post, I believe it was, I DID go on and on. I listed 50 things I love about Elvis. It wasn’t difficult. I am an author and I mention Elvis in almost every story I write. I named my son Presley. I was fortunate to see Elvis in concert three times. I have been to Graceland five times… See? I love Elvis. I have been blogging weekly for more than a year, but going forward, I will blog every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month. My life is insanely busy and I found myself missing weeks from time to time. This way, I’m more likely to be consistent. Hopefully, even if you are not an Elvis fan, you appreciate something about him and will find my posts interesting. Feel free to comment. Thank you so much for stopping by!]

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Elvis was an avid reader, another reason to admire and respect him.  I love that he and I have that in common. 🙂

As an author, I am honored that I can combine my love for Elvis, my love of reading, and my love of writing by mentioning Elvis in my books. For today’s post, I am sharing just a few samples of excerpts where I’ve done so…

 

Death Notice Cover

It’s a bit challenging to work in mentions of Elvis, since my characters are young and most were not born when he passed away. While I am well aware that all generations, even the one being born now, will produce many Elvis fans, I thought I should sometimes give reasons for my youthful characters being fans.

Here is how I did it in Death Notice:

Excerpt:

“Suspicious Minds” by Elvis came on the radio and I turned it up, feeling my spirits lift. I had inadvertently become an Elvis fan in college while doing a paper on the impact of celebrities on society. Whether or not one appreciated Elvis’ talent, there was no denying he was a phenomenon, the likes of which had never been seen before and would probably never be seen again. Not only did I find I loved his music, I’d discovered why he had the impact he had. He had this boyish, southern charm, but at the same time, a deeply embedded raw sexuality that was powerful and intoxicating. It was fortunate that he only used that power for entertainment. If he’d been a terrorist or a cult leader, he could have easily taken over the world. I was only six when he died, a few years younger than his daughter. Had I been ten years older, I was certain I’d have been a part of the frenzied, screaming masses, fainting and tossing my panties up on stage.

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LibertyAwakened

This was fun, since Eli is a vampire, but Liberty doesn’t yet know it. So, his response is a bit ‘tongue in cheek’.

Excerpt:

Though the music coming from the party was muted, Liberty recognized an Elvis Presley song, “One Night.” She grinned at Eli. “You like Elvis Presley? Isn’t he a little before your time?”

His lips twitched with amusement and he shrugged. “You might say I’m an old soul.”

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11. THICKER THAN WATER 8.12

(Can you tell I really love ‘Suspicious Minds’? :))

Excerpt:

Jake fell silent and flipped on the radio. “Suspicious Minds” by Elvis was playing. She glanced at him from the corner of her eye. Did he remember how much she liked Elvis? How he’d teased her unmercifully about it? Nothing showed on his face, but he must remember. Had he shoved every memory of their time together out of his mind?

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And this story holds a very special place in my heart. I was able to really let loose with the Elvis thing, since the story is set in 1957. It was released on Elvis’ 80th birthday…

Chapter One

Mapleton, Tennessee, November, 1957

Toby Lawson closed her eyes and shut out all sounds of the diner, except for Elvis Presley’s voice. He was crooning about how she was the only one for him…no matter where he went or what he did… he’d spend his whole life loving her…

Rough hands landed on her waist and shattered the fantasy. She caught a whiff of hair tonic and too much cologne and snapped her eyes open. Wes Markham’s hateful face replaced the image of Elvis’ beautiful, crooked smile and smoldering blue eyes.

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There are many more, but I won’t bore you with all of them. I just thought it would be fun to share a few. Hope you enjoyed.

Thank you for stopping by…Happy Friday! 

**** I just saw that my publisher put the ebook version of Death Notice on sale for 99 cents. Thicker than Water and End of Lonely Street are also 99 cents, and Liberty Awakened is $2.99. I’m sharing the Amazon links below, just in case anyone is interested:

DEATH NOTICE ON AMAZON – 99¢

LIBERTY AWAKENED ON AMAZON – $2.99

THICKER THAN WATER ON AMAZON – 99¢

END OF LONELY STREET ON AMAZON – 99¢

 

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EOLS Charity

Elvis was known for his giving heart and charitable work during his lifetime. Lisa Marie and Elvis Presley Enterprises have continued that tradition with their involvement in various charities. In 1984, The Elvis Charitable Foundation was formed. The EPCF created a scholarship fund for students majoring in the arts. The charity also contributes to one of Elvis’ favorite charities, Goodwill Homes, a Memphis facility that provides counseling and services for abused children and their families. The EPCF also assists numerous other charities, especially focusing on arts, education and children’s programs.

Learn more here, including how to donate:

http://www.graceland.com/epcf/

END OF LONELY STREET – Now Only 99 Cents!

On Elvis’ 80th birthday, I released a Vintage Romance short story set in 1957, and of course, my heroine is an Elvis fan. 🙂 As a tribute to Elvis’ generosity, and in order to assist with this worthy cause, 10% of my proceeds for End of Lonely Street will go to the EPCF.

EndofLonelyStreet_w9180_FINAL

All Toby Lawson wants is to go to college to become a teacher and to be free of her alcoholic mother and some painful memories. But when her mother nearly burns the house down, Toby must put her dreams on hold and return home to care for her. The only time she isn’t lonely and miserable is when she’s listening to her heartthrob, Elvis Presley. His music takes her away and helps her escape from everything wrong in her life.

Noah Rivers has always loved Toby, but no matter what he says, she can‘t get past the fact that her drunken mother once kissed him. He soon realizes the true problem lies in Toby’s belief she’s not good enough for him and in her fear she will be just like her mother.

What will it take to prove to her that she deserves to be happy, and that he would give anything to be the man to make her dreams come true?

Click Here for Kindle

Click Here for Nook

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