Cover Reveal: "Éire's Devil King" by Sandi Layne @sandyquill

A cover reveal for...

Éire's Devil King

Book 3 of Éire's Viking Trilogy

by Sandi Layne

Release Date: April 2 , 2015

Published by The Writers Coffee Shop

Summary: A man of ability and ambition, Tuirgeis Erlingrson has nurtured the desire to carve a place of leadership for himself on the Green Island, Éire, that he has raided multiple times. After the death of his wife in Nordweg, he takes his surviving son to Éire. Having connections with his adopted brother, Cowan, and Agnarr, his former countryman, Tuirgeis feels he has the support he needs to make his claims strong.

Agnarr is torn. His promise to Aislinn to remain with her on Éire is still in force, and he resists Tuirgeis’s requests to join the conquering forces from Nordweg. He desires above all things to maintain a safe home for his wife and children in Dal Fíatach. Charis encourages Cowan to do the same, though this makes for tense moments between them.

After initial disastrous attempts to achieve his ambition, Tuirgeis comes to learn that there is more to claiming a kingship than merely overpowering the locals. Tuirgeis finds himself at odds with the very people he had hoped would reinforce him. In addition, he wants to establish his father-line. He has one son; he wants another to be born of Éire. Will the woman of his choice accept and support him?

At length, Agnarr and Aislinn—though she is heavy with child—sail with Cowan and Charis to join Tuirgeis as he battles over one final summer to attain the High Kingship of the island.

Tuirgeis knows he doesn’t have long to make his claims; the Danes are coming in greater numbers than before. As he wins men of Éire to his cause, he has to maintain the relationships he has already fostered with Agnarr and Cowan. Charis finds that her Otherworldly gifts are needed by a man she considers her enemy.

 

Read an excerpt!

It was dark in the langhús, save for the glowing of the coals banked in the fire ring. Agnarr enjoyed his wife’s responsiveness to him, and when they made love, he never forgot to thank his new God for letting her live through the births of the children their bodies made together. Before the sun crept under the door and through the shutters over the new windows, they were smiling and silent and relishing the moments—he knew there would only be moments—before the children stirred in the bench-bed they shared. Later, as their son and daughter began shifting restlessly prior to awakening, Agnarr sat up and blew out a breath. “Wife.” “Yes, husband?” She joined him, finding his hand with hers in the shadowy enclosure of their private area. “We need to be ready. You need to be ready. You and the children.” She sighed and shifted on the blankets so that she was looking directly at him. As was her habit, she continued to touch him with her fingers as she spoke. “I can fight. And you gave Dow a real knife at the Christ Mass.” Discomfort tightened his stomach as he shook his head. “You need to be able to escape, just in case.” He knew far too well what would happen if someone found his attractive wife. Someone whom he didn’t know. Someone who would find her dark hair appealing and the tatú on her cheek mysterious and alluring. Someone who would want to take her as their leman, as he had once taken Charis. Someone who might take his son as a slave. Jaw tightening in anger, he shook his head again. Hard. “You know what can happen to you.” Her eyes were on his face, and he met their steady gaze. “And the children. You need to be able to get away. We should find a way to make you safe.”

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Award winning author of short Celtic fiction, Sandi Layne is the creator of the Éire's Viking Trilogy, as well as works of contemporary Christian romance.

She began by self-publishing her novels in 2000, garnering a loyal group of readers whom she continues to appreciate to this day.

Married for more than twenty years to a fantastic man, she has two sons, no pets, and a plethora of imaginary friends. Her interests range from ancient civilizations to science fiction. With degrees in English and Ministry, she also claims Theology’s crimson Masters collar which she has been known to don on rare occasions.

If you drive by her window before dawn, it is likely she’ll have a light on for you. Or at the very least, she’ll be alert on twitter. She invites you to visit her online space at http://sandyquill.com.

 

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Cover Reveal: "Shadows Have Gone" by @lissabryan

Shadows Have Gone - book 3 of The End of All Things series.

Here's the cover!

Release Date: March 26 , 2015

Published by The Writers Coffee Shop

Summary: Carly Daniels knows what it is to suffer loss. She knows what it is to sacrifice. In the two years since a pandemic virus—known only as the Infection—decimated humanity, she’s made choices she never could have imagined. She’s condoned violence in the name of peace and done the unthinkable in the name of mercy. But with Justin at her side, she’s also learned there’s nothing she can’t face and nothing she wouldn’t do to protect those she loves.

But now another threat has arrived in the form of a uniformed man driving an army truck, claiming to represent the remnant of the United States military. Someone has set their sights on their community . . . and on Justin. The struggle to defend their little homeland is far from over, and the visitors may have brought more danger with them than just their weapons.

The shadows are closing in. Carly has to find out whether she has the strength to stand on her own when all of her support has fallen away. What remains when the shadows have gone?

Read an excerpt!

“There’s other news,” Justin said. “We made contact with a man driving an army truck.”
“The army?”
“Someone with the army?”
“There’s an army?”
“Whose army?” Pete’s voice rang above the excited babble.
“That’s the right question,” Justin said. “Whose army? He might have been wearing a uniform and claiming affiliation, but I have my doubts.”
“He claimed to be from the US Army?”
“Claimed,” Justin said, stressing the word hard. “And his claim had a few inconsistencies. I was in the Army, and I know. Whatever this guy is a part of, it’s not the army as we knew it.”
“What did he want?”
“Said he was out scouting and saw the smoke. He agreed to leave a message outside of Clayton if his people want to get in contact with us again. And I would imagine they will.” “Last thing we need is another fight,” Grady said. He took off his hat and wiped the sweat from his forehead. “You think they know where we are?”
“General area. We wouldn’t be that hard to find if someone was really searching for us. If they’re really army, then yes, they know exactly where we are as we speak. But as I said, I have my doubts.”
“Think it will come to a fight?” Pete asked.
Justin scratched his chin. “I really can’t say. What I can say is that we always need to be prepared for it, prepared to defend what is ours.”
“What if they really are the army? Would we be America again?”
“Wait. When did we stop being America?”
“America is dead.” This came from David, his voice as blunt as a dropped stone. “We all saw it die two years ago. I don’t know what we are now, but the Constitution sure ain’t in effect anymore. There’s no government. There’s no social contract holding us together. That’s what America was, you know—a collective agreement of the people. Now we’re just—” He sliced a hand through the air.
“If the army is still active, that would mean there is a government, which would make this still America,” Grady said. “They’d be the government’s representatives, establishing order.”
Justin shook his head. “You’re thinking way too far ahead. Even if they are US Army—and that’s a very big if—they don’t have control of the whole country. There is no centralized government, no law enforcement. They’re not coming to rescue us.”

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Lissa Bryan is an astronaut, renowned Kabuki actress, Olympic pole vault gold medalist, Iron Chef champion, and scientist who recently discovered the cure for athlete's foot...though only in her head. Real life isn't so interesting, which is why she spends most of her time writing.

She is the author of four other novels, Ghostwriter, The End of All Things, its sequel, The Land of the Shadows, and Under These Restless Skies.

         

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The End of All Things Book 1

After a terrible virus ravages the planet, Carly Daniels, one of the few survivors, hides in her apartment in Juneau trying to survive the best she can with only occasional forays to gather food. With her is Sam, a wolf puppy she found starving on the streets. He becomes her companion and a reason to continue when giving up sometimes seems like the more attractive option. Still dazed with shock and grief, she hopes for the world to go back to normal soon.

She is discovered by Justin, an ex-soldier who is intent on making his way to Florida before the winter sets in. Justin coaxes her out of her hiding place and convinces her to join him on his journey, because a warmer climate will be their best chance against the extremes of Mother Nature.

Together, they begin a perilous journey through a nation laid to waste by the disaster. Challenges abound along the way. The weather, injury, and shortage of supplies all help to slow them down. In time, they discover that they aren’t the only survivors. Some are friendly but some have had their minds destroyed by the high fever. Then there are those who simply take what they want, leaving Carly and Justin with no choice but to defend what is theirs.

But their journey is not without joy and love. Together, they face every struggle, including an unplanned pregnancy. Despite the perils of bringing a child into a world of chaos, their baby is a new beginning for themselves and a symbol of hope for the other survivors they find along the way.

This is the story of their journey to find a place to begin a new life, and a home in each other.

Tales from the End Book 1.5

 The Horsemen L.A.'s mayor has declared quarantine to try to halt the spread of the Infection. Pearl sets off across the city to buy supplies, but already the world is changing. Something strange is in the air. The Horsemen are coming ...Veronica When Veronica's mother doesn't come home from work and no one answers the phone when she calls for help, a nine-year-old girl is thrown into the chaos of a world coming to an end. Veronica decides it's up to her to find her family. "Veronica" is the story of a little girl's courage in the face of the end of all things."I Wandered Lonely As A Cloud" They called her Shadowfax-- the mare Carly and Justin found on their travels. But before she was found by Carly, the retired dressage horse was known as Cloud. An unusual tale of the end, told through the eyes of a confused and lonely horse, left in her pasture.Birthday (A previously-published bonus story.) Carly knows Justin has never celebrated his birthday, and after society crumbled, no one knows what date it is, anyway. But she wants to do something special for him. Celebrating the little things helps them keep hope alive, and as a blizzard rages outside, a small gesture of love warms their home.

Tales of courage, tales of survival... Tales from the End.

The Land of The Shadow Book 2

 After surviving the Infection and a perilous journey through the wasteland that was once the United States, Carly and Justin have found a safe home in the isolated town of Colby.Even so, balancing the duties of survival and a growing family isn’t easy. As they emerge as leaders, they face difficult questions about justice in a lawless land, basic human rights, and freedom in a world where strength defines worth. More than ever, they have to rely on one another for strength and support during the darkest of times. The Crisis is far from over. Their fences won’t keep the world out forever, and a new threat is emerging—a gang of predators who see the town as easy pickings. When danger looms over Colby, Carly must decide how far she’ll go to protect those she loves. It’s a journey down the long and broken road through The Land of the Shadow.

 

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"Carnelian and Ice" on The Lemonade Stand

Dear friends,

Carnelian and Ice is featured this week on The Lemonade Stand!

Summary: "A man struggling to escape from the darkness, and a woman who thinks she doesn't deserve the light. How will an ice sculpture affect their lives?" AU with vampires.

Thanks to Drotuno for the rec. Have you read her stories? She's the author of several amazing fics. Among them, you've probably heard of Masen Manor.

All the best!

- Raum 

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"The Prince" is coming, thanks to @sylvainreynard

The Prince by Sylvain Reynard will be on sale January 20th. Meanwhile, you can read an excerpt!

Florence, Italy

In the distance, the Prince could hear voices and muffled sounds.
He approached silently, almost floating across the floor.
Desperate groans and the rustling of fabric filled his ears, along with the twin sounds of rapidly beating hearts. He could smell their scents, the aromas heightened due to their sexual arousal.
He growled in reaction.
The corridor was shrouded in darkness but the Prince could see that the professor had his wife up against a window between two statues, her legs wrapped around his waist.
Her voice was breathy as she spoke, but the Prince tuned out her words, moving closer so he could catch a glimpse of her lovely face.
At the sight of it, flushed with passion, his old heart quickened and he felt the stirrings of arousal.
It was not his custom to observe rather than participate. But on this occasion, he decided to make an exception. Careful to remain in the darkness, he moved to the wall opposite the couple.
The woman squirmed in her lover’s arms, her high heels catching on his tuxedo jacket. Her fingers flew to his neck, undoing his bow tie and tossing it carelessly to the floor.
She unbuttoned his shirt, and her mouth moved to his chest, as murmurs of pleasure escaped his lips.
The Prince felt more than desire as he watched the woman’s eager movements. He caught a glimpse of her exquisite mouth and the toss of her long hair that would no doubt feel like silk between his fingers.
She lifted her head to smile at the man who held her close and he could see love in her eyes.

 The Prince - Novella - InterMix

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(Christina Lauren)

(Deborah Harkness)

​The Raven - Book One of The Florentine Series (coming in February)

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Sylvain Reynard

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Writing Lab: Writing about Vampires, by @LorenzFont

Lorenz Font is the author of The Gates Legacy Series and of Ascension. 

MyReadingLounge: "What makes your vampire unique? Why did you decide to write about vampires?"

Lorenz Font: Following in the footsteps of prominent authors of vampire novels—Anne Rice, Stephen King, J.R. Ward—just to name a few, is quite a daunting task for any author, especially a newbie like me. I dare to say it, but there is a big possibility of being labeled a copycat or worse, unimaginative. 

As a lover of vampire stories for most of my adult life, I have come to embrace this mythical creature who not only erotizes the act of feeding but also romanticizes their affection for humans. Be it a frightening or hair-raising impersonation, these creatures have left an indelible mark on our psyche. I, for one, am enamored by their legend.

After reading the Twilight series, I decided to try writing fan fiction. As much as it has helped me in developing my writing skills, piggy-backing on Stephanie Mayer’s concept and characters came to an end. I had the insatiable need to start developing my own stories and characters. Even then, it was quite overwhelming to build a unique concept from scratch. 

The catalyst in this endeavor began when a friend of mine asked me a question which we both believed was rather strange (and stupid) at that time. What if a vampire has Aids? The question got me thinking. I rolled the idea inside my head and waited for it to slowly simmer until it was on full brew. 

My vampires are unique because unlike the myth that vampires are strong and incapable of catching deadly diseases or virus, mine are susceptible to a communicable disease. In taking this route, they are humanized, humbled and even ridiculed. Not your average idea for creatures known for their strength and their superiority. They are hunted and killed by their own to prevent detection by humans and avoid further spread of the incorrigible infection. This affliction made Harrow, the main character and the namesake of the series, to be more sensitive to the feelings of others. This gives the general idea of being weak, and this is a challenge I post to myself as a writer. How can I make him likable and embraceable in spite of his flaws? I will let you and the readers decide for yourselves if I have succeeded in this particular endeavor.   

In developing my plot, I decided to use a less known martial arts as the main fighting technique of the good guys to set them apart from their adversaries. I also patterned a weapon used by practitioners of these particular martial arts to enhance my story. So far, the reviews for the first two installments have been positive. Readers have embraced the concept of the disease among vampires. They can sympathize with the direness of the situation of my infected vampires and their need to feed for survival.

Thank you, Lorenz Font!

Lorenz Font is on 

Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Website

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Let's talk about "Ascension" by @LorenzFont

Release of Book 3 of

The Gates Legacy Series

  Ascension

by Lorenz Font

Release Date: January 8, 2015

Published by The Writers Coffee Shop

Genre: FICTION / Romance / General / Paranormal /Supernatural

ISBN e-book:   978-1-61213-364-5

Available from: Amazon, Kobo, Barnes and Noble, and TWCS PH

Summary: Rohnert is descended from a long line of pure-blooded vampires ruled by the Vampire Council. Quiet and principled, he is known for his combat expertise and is beloved by peers and students alike. When his former ally, Goran, becomes the Council leader and the killing starts, Rohnert strikes out on his own. The vampire race is in upheaval when he discovers a black book that contains the wisdom and history of his people. Rohnert refuses to support Goran’s tyrannical rule and has no interest in ruling himself, no matter what the book foretells. He allies with freedom fighters led by the indomitable Harrow Gates. However, the prophecies fail to prepare him to handle one passionate and determined human doctor. The last thing Shelly Anderson wanted was to fall in love. After meeting enigmatic and reclusive Rohnert, her resolve quickly crumbles. Their one night together ends in a nightmare. She is determined to carry on without him, but Rohnert’s unexpected reentry into her life derails her plans. While she teaches him how powerful a human’s love can be, Rohnert realizes the lengths he is willing to go to keep her close and safe, even if it means violating a long-standing decree among pure-blooded vampires to keep their bloodlines intact. When Goran begins to kill off the remaining Vampire Council Elders, Harrow’s rebels urge Rohnert to step in. It isn’t until harsh reality comes knocking at his door that his choice becomes clear. Rohnert must do whatever he can to save the people he loves or risk losing them forever. However, the reluctant savior may already be too late to protect the lives that matter most.  

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Read an excerpt

The flimsy door was torn off its hinges like a piece of cardboard. “What the hell is going on here?” Rohnert’s voice rattled everything around them, sending the bottles of precious anesthetics to the floor with a loud crash. “Don’t you ever knock?” Shelly wobbled to the nearest chair and flopped onto it clumsily. “I heard you cry. What’s wrong?” Rohnert rushed to her side, ignoring her question, and placed his hand on her belly. It could have been the warmth of his touch or some quack medicinal magic, but her back felt instant relief. Shelly had wanted to deny him the privilege of connecting with their unborn child. Instead, she smothered a moan at the glorious reprieve he brought to her. She was much too proud to acknowledge how his presence soothed her. “Nothing’s wrong. I probably pulled a muscle when I bent down to pick up the scissors.” She tried to move away from him, to disconnect herself from his touch. Cheryl took one look at Rohnert, and without a word took her leave. Mort scrambled to his feet and followed suit. Rohnert kept his hand on her back. “You’re lying.” He peered at her. Shelly bit her tongue to keep herself from lobbing another furious retort. She looked away, focusing on the exit. He had no right to look so attractive and virile, and her heart shouldn’t be hammering against her chest the way it was. Under his close scrutiny, she felt vulnerable, naked almost, and she hated the sexual stirring in her gut. “You look tired.” “I’m fine. It’s my normal. I have to go to work now.” “You’re done working for the night.” Rohnert’s eyes bore into hers. The command in voice would have sent others seeking for cover. She was no pushover. “You’re not telling me what to do.” Shelly stood up and bolted past him. Rohnert was quick to restrain her, and he spun her around to face him. “I’m not doing this to annoy you. You have to look after yourself and our child. Your schedule doesn’t allow you enough rest.” Sure. He was going all gallant on her, showing concern. It was a bit too cozy and little too late. “No, it isn’t,” he said, answering her unspoken words. “I left because I wanted to protect—” “Oh spare me the details. You left because you’re afraid to show you care. Now that I’m pregnant, you come waltzing back into my life to take control. If you’re concerned for the child’s well-being, don’t be. I’m going to let It know who the sperm donor is.” She watched his face harden. “Do not call our child It. We’re going to give him a name, and I’m not just a donor. I intend to be a part of his life every step of the way.” So he had been eavesdropping. Just for kicks, she pushed on. “And how do you propose that we go about doing that?” Shelly held Rohnert’s gaze with enough challenge to discourage any man. His features softened, and his eyes crinkled. “I want a ceremony to bind us. I don’t want my son to be born a bastard.” As in getting married? Her chest felt weird all of a sudden, inflating at the prospect, but she tamped down her excitement. Where in hell does this man get these silly notions? “And if I won’t do it?” Rohnert smiled, exposing the tips of his fangs. “You won’t deny your child the life he deserves.” Too cocky for his own good. Shelly snorted and shook her head. “This child deserves to live in peace away from the killings and without the fear of getting killed.” It was obvious that she’d struck a nerve when his nostrils flared. Shelly stifled a smile. “I will protect my child with my life.” He pulled her closer until their faces were almost touching and held her chin with his thumb and forefinger. “You won’t get rid of me, even if you try.” Without giving her a chance to answer, he cupped her face with his big hands and captured her mouth in a hungry kiss, demanding her to respond. Shelly planted her palms against his chest and pushed. Rohnert didn’t budge. He growled against her lips and deepened the kiss, rendering her breathless and weak in the knees. Her hands relaxed then fisted in his jacket, finally feeling the burn of his mouth. Oh, God. How could she think straight? She prided herself on being tough, and she usually stuck to her resolve. Yet Rohnert short circuited her brain, making it difficult to think of anything but getting him between her legs. His hands wound down to the small of her back and pressed her body until there was not a hairline of space between them. She felt lightheaded. This had to stop. She wasn’t going to . . . Shelly moaned, unable to stop herself from touching his face. If she were truthful with herself, she wanted this and needed him like air. She also needed a doctor. It was obvious she was sick in the head. She had vowed not to allow him walk all over her, and look at what was she doing—allowing him to trample her will and moaning like a sex-starved kitten while he did.

Lorenz Font discovered her love of writing after reading a celebrated novel that inspired one idea after another. She is currently enjoying the buzz from her vampire novels Hunted and Tormented, the first and second book of The Gates Legacy Series, Indivisible Line, a romantic thriller, Feather Light, an erotic romance and Pieces of Broken Time, a military romance. Lorenz’s perfect day consists of writing and lounging on her garage couch, aka the office, with a glass of her favorite cabernet while listening to her ever-growing music collection. She enjoys dabbling in different genres, with an intense focus on angst and the redemption of flawed characters. Her fascination with romantic twists is a mainstay in all her stories. Lorenz lives in California with her husband, children, and two demanding dogs. She divides her time between her full-time job and her busy writing schedule.  

Be sure to look for books one and two if you haven't read them yet! 

 

 a Rafflecopter giveaway  

Lorenz Font is on 

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Praise for Ascension

"The best way for me to describe Ascension is, come for the smoking hot vampires and stay for the action, suspense and gut wrenching drama. It’s not hard to fall under the spell of the visionary creation of Lorenz Font."  

 - Jolene, Valley Girl Gone Country, Goodreads Review

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Cover Reveal: "Accept This Dandelion" by Brooke Williams

 Accept This Dandelion

By Brooke Williams

Release Date: February 4, 2015 from Prism Book Group

Pre-Order: Amazon

Join the Feb. 4th Release Day Party on Facebook

Enjoy giveaways with a dozen different authors!

Summary: Renee Lockhart has her eye on a lofty goal…to fill the open position of morning radio show host at the radio station where she works.  When her co-workers sign her up for a local TV version of “the Bachelor,” Renee goes along with it in order to raise her public profile.  Ben McConnell, the most eligible bachelor in town, insists that Renee be placed on the show, despite her bumbling audition.  Ben gets much more than he expected in Renee.  He gets a girl who doesn’t bow to his every whim…and a girl who opens his eyes to true, unexpected love. When nothing goes right on the local program called "Accept this Dandelion"...hilarity ensues. Imagine your worst possible dates happening...on TV! 

Brooke Williams writes in a sleep-deprived state while her daughters nap. Her romantic comedy is best read in the same state. Brooke has twelve years of radio in her background, both behind the scenes and on the air. She was also a television traffic reporter for a short time despite the fact that she could care less about hair and make-up. Today, Brooke stays at home with her daughters and works as a freelance writer for a variety of companies. When she isn’t working for paying clients, she makes things up, which results in books like Accept this Dandelion.  Brooke is also the author of Wrong Place, Right Time, Someone Always Loved You, and Beyond the Bars. She looks forward to the upcoming released of Mamarazzi and Baby Sheep Gets a Haircut. Brooke and her husband Sean have been married since 2002 and have two beautiful daughters, Kaelyn (5) and Sadie (nearly 2).

Connect with Brooke: Facebook | Website | Blog

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