Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Blog Tour & Giveaway ~ Love Story Series by Beth D. Carter

Displaying Love Story Series.jpg

Title- Love Story for a Snow Princess
Series- Love Story # 1
By- Beth D. Carter
Genre- Contemporary Erotic Romance 

Displaying Book Cover.jpg

Blurb

When Panthea Snow loses her family in a horrific car crash, she needs something to keep her going.  She decides to replace one family with another and signs up as a mail order bride to a man living in the far north in Alaska.  When she arrives, however, she realizes she can’t go through with it but is stuck in River Ice, Alaska until the snow melts in a few weeks.

She meets Paden Winters and is drawn to him despite his moodiness and ill temper.  As she gets to know him, she realizes they are both dealing with issues of healing and concealing pain.  Only Paden deals with it by cutting himself for sexual satisfaction. 

Can a woman who has an abnormal fear of blood and a man who cuts himself ever find happiness?  Or are some pains too deep to overcome?



Purchase Link

Title- Once Upon a Love Story
Series- Love Story # 2
By- Beth D. Carter
Genre- Contemporary Erotic Romance 

Displaying Once Upon a Love Story.JPG

Blurb

Caleb Tasker lost his wife to cancer but it took him a long time to put her memory to rest.  Deciding he needs a vacation, he accepts the gracious invitation of living in his friend’s Malibu home for an over due holiday.

Delilah Ward grew up in rural Mississippi and ran away when she was sixteen, moving to Los Angeles with thoughts of being anything but the person she was born to be.  But reality settled in quickly and the bright lights of Hollywood soon faded into the dark abyss of dancing on a darkened platform.

Caleb is used to love being easy and Delilah is used to fighting against everything.  They have nothing in common except a wildfire attraction that won’t let go of them.  But when tough choices need to be made, will they both be able to be honest to what they really want?  

Purchase Link

Title- Lights Camera Love Story
Series- Love Story # 3
By- Beth D. Carter
Genre- Contemporary Erotic Romance 

Displaying Lights Camera Love.jpg

Blurb

Jake Coolidge is Hollywood’s hot new star.  Growing up in Los Angeles among the film sets his father worked on, Jake knows fame is fickle so he lives life to the fullest.  He never has to search far for a pretty face with an amazing body to fill his bed, and he never, ever, promises fidelity.

Norah Scaritt has lived her whole life in a fantasy world.  Knowing she would never be the girl to wear a bikini or short shorts, she’s come to accept that she has curves even though she secretly wishes she was one of the slim, beautiful models that decorates Jake’s arm.

She’s written a movie script that she knows Jake will be perfect for, but she’s ill prepared for the magnetic attraction she feels for him.  As she tries to form a professional bond with him, his hot and cold attitude breaks her heart one too many times.  Can Jake save a love that he denied before he’s lost the only person that ever really mattered?


Purchase Link


STORY EXCERPT

 And then déjà vuhappened.  The door opened, a gust of cold wind came in, and all of Thea’s nerves came instantly alive. She knew, without turning around, that the man from the night before had just walked in.

“I’ll be right there, Paden,” Miki called out.

Paden.  His name is Paden.

“You gonna be back tomorrow to keep me company?” Miki asked her, jolting her back to her senses.

“I’d love to. How much do I owe you for lunch and the pot of coffee, Miki?”

Miki waved the offer away. “It was nice to have a girl in here to talk to.”

“Then thank you.”

“My pleasure.”

Thea hopped off the barstool. “I guess I’ll see you tomorrow, but I will insist on paying.”

“Very well. If you hold on for a minute, let me take care of Paden and then I’ll walk you to the hotel,” she said as she wiped her hands on a towel and poured a cup of black coffee.

“You don’t have to escort me,” Thea protested. “It’s not that far.”

“Yeah, but it’s dark. Just wait.”

She tapped Thea’s hand before walking to the back corner where the man, Paden, sat. She watched as Miki sat the mug of coffee before him and then nodded as he gave his order. Though his face was turned toward Miki, those grass-green eyes stayed focused on Thea.

“Hello,” she said turning toward him after Miki had walked into the kitchen.

“Hello,” he answered, though his tone wasn’t engaging.

He eyed her up and down, pausing on her hair and her Ugg boots. A mocking sort of smile twisted his lips, and he took a drink of his coffee.

“You don’t like my boots?”

“Let me guess. You saw the word boot and thought it seemed appropriate for minus-thirty-degree weather.”

“It’s not that cold out,” she protested, stung by his disdain.

“It will be. Didn’t you read your Alaskan Frommers Guide, Princess?” he taunted.

Thea frowned at his derision, wondering why such a handsome man was so rude. She decided she didn’t like him. He made her extremely uncomfortable. He simply stared at her, making her nervous for some reason, so she jumped off her seat and headed for the door. She grabbed her coat, hurrying out of the diner and into the icy wind. She struggled to put on her coat, scarf, and hat before she froze. Unused to such frigid wind, Thea came to realize how quickly hypothermia could settle in.

“You little fool,” came a harsh voice. Gloved hands came out of nowhere to bundle her up. “You can freeze to death in minutes out here!”

Thea’s teeth were chattering too much for her to say anything. She looked up through her lashes at Paden, very aware that the strange reaction she’d had while looking at him in the diner hadn’t dissipated with the cold.

“Come on,” he growled and took her arm.

Through the blinding, swirling snow, he led her back to the hotel. Though it wasn’t far, it seemed like forever as she took step after step in the glacial wind, glad that she had Paden leading the way even if his presence threw her off-balance.

Truth be told, Thea had no idea how she would have made it back to the hotel if this man hadn’t come out to rescue her, even though the hotel was only a five-minute walk away.

After what seemed like hours, Paden marched her up to the hotel and into the lobby. Warmth engulfed her immediately, and she moved instinctively toward the fireplace where a roaring fire generated lifesaving heat. She stretched out her hands and closed her eyes in bliss. Little by little, her shivering body calmed as dizziness swirled through her mind.

Paden came to stand next to her. She opened her eyes and looked up at him, smiling her thanks languidly.

“You little fool,” he said again, contempt dripping from each syllable. Her smile disappeared in an instant. “Don’t you realize how dangerous this weather can be?”

“No,” she said. “I mean, yes. I mean, not until now.”

He snorted. “It only takes moments for hypothermia to set in, and if you get disoriented and wander off the road we won’t find you till it’s too late.”

“I’m sorry,” she whispered.

“It’s September, winter is settling in fast,” he told her. “I suggest you find someone to walk you back to the hotel every night.”

He went to leave, but for some inexplicable reason, she didn’t want him to go. She must have a masochistic streak she had no idea about. Thea grabbed his arm, halting his retreat. He glanced first at her small hand resting against his large arm before piercing her with his grim stare.

“Yes?”

She cleared her throat, yanking her hand back like he’d scorched her. “My name is Panthea Snow. Thank you.”

He didn’t say anything. He just stared at her as if she were a bug he was inspecting. Thea fidgeted, not used to such scrutiny. He turned abruptly and walked away, leaving her staring after him.

He hadn’t even introduced himself. 

ADULT EXCERPT 

“I wanted to let you know,” he whispered, “that it’s not you. I’m still not right, Thea. Something is dark and hateful inside, and it makes me do hurtful things. I just want you to know that I…care about you, but I’m not a very nice person.”

His face was turned away from her, his jaw locked in place, as if afraid he’d say something more. He looked so lost to her, so defeated that it broke her heart. Without thinking, she reached up to grab his face and bring it back to hers. She stood on tiptoe to make sure he saw her as she spoke.

“I’m not scared of you, Paden,” she whispered. “Whatever darkness is inside you doesn’t scare me.”

She kissed him on the lips, softly, once and then twice, pressing her mouth against the seam of his. Then she rubbed her cheek against his, and his composure broke. His arms came around her and he pulled her into him, almost crushing her as he found her lips with his.

She opened for him, and his tongue swept in, allowing him to take from her whatever he needed. His kiss was possessive, dominant yet tender, a heady combination that sent her senses spinning. She slipped her arms around him, hugging his waist, feeling the strength rippling through him, and a little moan escaped her throat.

Immediately, he swept her up into his arms, not breaking the contact with his mouth. He carried her, though she was hardly aware of where they went. She was half conscious to going up to his loft, where the only light came from the glow of the fireplace below. He laid her in the middle of his bed, falling upon her, cradled between her legs.

His hands roved over her body, not giving her a chance to protest even if she wanted to. But she didn’t. He unzipped her pants and his hand slipped inside, under her panties, to find the slickness of her pussy. One finger slid in and she moaned, lifting her hips to help him ease in further. His thumb rubbed her clit, teasing the nub while another finger also pushed in. In and out he rubbed, up and down. Her body tightened, and she panted, her hips bucking against the fingers driving her crazy.

Then he pulled back, finally breaking his kiss to trail over her cheek, down her chin to her neck. His hand left her slit. She moaned in protest and shifted her hips higher, pressing against his hardness. But he tugged at her shirt, hurrying to unbutton it to reveal her thermal undershirt. For the next few moments it was all about getting her naked.

Once she lay before him, exposed, he took a moment to stare at her while running a hand over her skin, over her breasts, teasing the nipples to pucker. Thea shifted restlessly, arching her back to get him to touch her more.

His fingers trailed down, over the concave contour of her belly, into the red curls hiding her femininity. He shifted lower, and his fingers parted her folds as his mouth settled on her aching clit.

She arched with a screech of pleasure, bucking hard against his mouth. He sucked her deep, his tongue probing into her opening and licking it. Her hands clutched uselessly at his hair, either urging him on or trying to make him leave, she wasn’t sure. She wanted more, she wanted to feel all of him but wasn’t quite sure what to ask for.

He seemed to know, however, and moved off her. She reached for him. She may not have known exactly what she was reaching for, but she knew she didn’t want him to go away. He moved, his clothing shifting off, his skin hot against her touch. She touched his chest, his hips.

“Do you have a condom?” she whispered.

He blinked, confused.

“I have one,” she told him. “I thought, you know, just in case.”
She reached for her jeans and took out the little foil from her pocket. She heard the tearing of a wrapper, and then he was lifting her hips, settling them over his shoulders. He rose up between her legs, holding firm to her thighs. In one thrust, he entered her.

Displaying Beth D Carter.JPG
About the Author

I like writing about the very ordinary girl thrust into extraordinary circumstances, so my heroines will probably never be lawyers, doctors or corporate highrollers.  I try to write characters who aren't cookie cutters and push myself to write complicated situations that I have no idea how to resolve, forcing me to think outside the box.  I love writing characters who are real, complex and full of flaws, heroes and heroines who find redemption through love.

I’ve been pretty fortunate in life to experience some amazing things.  I’ve lived in France, traveled throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand.  I am a mom to an amazing little boy.  I live in Los Angeles, surrounded by friends and family.  I hate washing dishes but I love cooking. I hate washing clothes but I love wearing them. Writing my bio is difficult because I never know what to say so I hope you like this one.  My favorite color is red but I look best in black (it’s slimming).  I hate people who don't pick up their dog's crap in public places, people who don’t use turn signals, and I really hate people who are rude and condescending. I especially hate discrimination in all and every form.  And although I love holding a book in my hand, I absolutely adore my ereader, whom I’ve named Ruby.  I love to hear from readers so I’ve made it really easy to find me on Twitter: @BethDCarter  or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bethdcarterauthor

Author Links


Tour Giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Cover Reveal & Giveaway ~ Uncoverin​g You by Scarlett Edwards

Uncovering You
Series- Book # 1
By- Scarlett Edwards
Expected Publication Date- March 20, 2014
Genre- Dark Romance

When I wake up in a dark, unfamiliar room, I have no idea what's waiting for me in the shadows. My imagination conjures up demons of the worst kind.

Reality is much worse:

A collar with no leash. A prison with no walls. And a life stripped of meaning.

I am presented with a vile contract and asked to sign. It outlines the terms of my servitude. The only information I have about my captor are the two small letters inked at the bottom:

J.S.

Armed with only my memories, I must do everything I can to avoid becoming ensnared in his twisted mind games. But in the end, it all comes down to one choice:

Resist and die. 

Or submit, and sign my life away


Blog Tour & Giveaway ~ Absolution by Amanda Dick

A freak accident, a moment in time, and life changes forever. Stay or go - there's no such thing as the easy way out. The accident wasn't his fault but in the horrific aftermath, Jack's actions may have possibly caused consequences he could never have foreseen. Consumed with guilt and unable to listen to reason, he takes the only option he believes is open to him: he disappears. Living a quiet life away from everyone he loves, he drops off the grid but the memories continue to haunt him.


Four years later, a funeral signals a homecoming fraught with tension as he finally forces himself to face up to the consequences of his actions. Betrayed and angry, his former best friend Callum wants nothing more than to see him disappear once again - for good this time. Meanwhile his ex-girlfriend Ally has moved on and he can see that his return is anything but easy for her. People change, life goes on and things are never as simple as they seem. The past has a habit of catching up with you when you least expect it.


Living with regret and guilt almost tore him apart, but there is no guarantee that trying to make amends will soothe his soul or help the people he loves the most.


Courage has many faces. Fighting for what you believe in, no matter what. Showing strength of mind and body when the cards are stacked against you. Rising to the challenge and playing through the pain.


And yet sometimes, courage means simply standing your ground.

absolution blog tour

hosted by everything marie

 
 

excerpt

“You want to know if I told her about what happened that night.”
Callum glared at him, and Jack could tell he was on the right track.
“The answer is no, I didn’t. But why the hell didn’t you? You were there, you knew.”
“Because it wasn’t my place to tell her – it was yours.” Callum snapped.
“Jesus, Callum! You just let her think God knows what, all this time?”
“What the hell do you care what she thought! You weren’t here, remember? I didn’t tell her because what the hell would be the point?”
“What would be the point?” Jack repeated indignantly. “She would have known!”
“Known what? That you were a coward? She figured that one out for herself when she woke up and you were gone!”
Jack opened his mouth to speak, but Callum cut him off.
“Don’t you dare come back here and start blaming me or anyone else! No one told you to go – you made that choice yourself.” Callum hissed, eyes blazing. “You did the wrong thing then and by coming back now and stirring it all up again, all you’re doing is making it worse. You’re here for your own selfish reasons, not because of Tom or because of her!”
“I’m trying to make it right!” Jack insisted, heart racing.
“And how in the hell do you think you’re gonna do that?”
Jack stared at him dumbfounded, knowing that he had asked himself that question a million times and come up empty.
“She doesn’t need you anymore. The best thing you can do now is just crawl back into whatever hole you crawled out of and leave her be.”
Jack shook his head determinedly, his heart pounding. “No. I’m not going anywhere, not this time.”
Callum laughed scornfully. “That’s your master plan? Seriously?”
Jack glared at him in silence, his anger mounting.
“Oh come on – you gotta admit, that’s a reckless statement, especially for you.” Callum snorted derisively. “You disappear when the going gets tough, remember?”
Jack clenched his teeth so tight his jaw ached. “That’s not what happened and you know it.”
“Do I? Because that’s what it looked like from where I was standing!”
“You know damn well why I left!” Jack blurted out, his voice thunderous and desperate. “You knew what I did – you were there!”
“Yeah, I knew what you did - big deal! You were trying to save her life - she wouldn’t have blamed you!” he said hotly. “You did the wrong thing, Jack – you should’ve stayed.”
Jack stared at him, his heart racing. He thought about the relationship they used to have – how close they were. Like brothers. And now this; strangers - worse than that; enemies.
“I made a mistake.” he choked. “I won’t make that mistake again.”
Callum shook his head. He stood up straight and took a step backwards, eyeballing Jack as he forced his hands back into his pockets.
“Here’s the thing – you made your choice. Now you have to live with it, just like the rest of us. You can’t change what happened and if you stick around, you’re only gonna hurt her. Is that what you want?”
Jack opened his mouth to reply but Callum didn’t give him a chance.
“She was just starting to get her life back together, after everything she’s been through. Don’t rip it all apart again.” he pleaded quietly, clearly emotional. “Do the right thing this time - leave.”

playlist

link to spotify

  

dreamcast

 

purchase links

 

about Amanda


Amanda Dick is a night-owl, coffee addict, movie buff and music lover.  She also writes.

Born in Opotiki, New Zealand, she is rather partial to dark chocolate and believes in the power of a good vanilla latte.  She has a passion for the colour green (particularly in clothes and gemstones) and insists there is nothing sexier than a man in a kilt.

She spent several months traveling around Europe in her late 20’s (there’s a story there – she’ll get around to writing it one day).  After ridding herself of her wanderlust, she met the love of her life (while working to pay off said wanderlust) in Edinburgh, Scotland.  They moved in together the week after their first date – so yes, she believes in love at first sight.  She also believes in Women's Intuition and following your heart.

She writes on her trusty laptop, predominantly late at night, when it's quiet and interruptions are few.  Most of all, she enjoys writing about human behaviour - love, loss, joy, grief, friendship and relationships in general.  She loves to put normal, everyday people into situations that will test their boundaries.  She is passionately curious about how we, as human beings, react when pushed to the edge.

After living in Scotland for five years, she has now settled back home in New Zealand, where she lives with her husband and two children.

contact amanda

 

giveaway



 Inline image 1

Sunday, February 16, 2014

True Colors by Melissa Pearl Release Day Blitz

Displaying Invitation Masquarade Ball Final1.png

Cover Designer by Kate Strawbridge of

Hosted by

Displaying Cover for Media Release.jpg
TRUE COLORS BLURB:

Caitlyn Davis always cruised through life, not being the type to ruffle feathers or involve herself in high school drama…until a chance encounter with a strange, homeless man changes everything.

Suddenly, Caitlyn has the ability to see behind people’s masks. She discovers that her life isn’t as simple as she imagined and her high school is filled with secrets…some very sinister ones.

Unable to ignore her new gift, Caitlyn embarks on a mission to learn why one of her friends now appears terrified, but masks her fear behind a bright, smiling veneer. Will Caitlyn’s new ability lead her into hot water? Or is her new found vision a blessing that will expose her friends’ true colors?

Her quest will lead Caitlyn to lose friends, stand up for those in need, and even find love.

At Palisades High School every face tells a story…


Displaying Cover with back blurb.jpg

True Colors on Goodreads:

Purchase Links:
Coming Soon

Party Info:

The True Colors Masquerade Ball is happening on February 16th to celebrate the release of True Colors. All party-goers will be entitled to purchase a copy of True Colors for only 99c. There will also be competitions, giveaways and guest appearances from other authors who will be unveiling their own secrets. So come and join in the fun and help us welcome True Colors into the world with style.

Displaying Mel 1 brushed small.jpg
Author Bio:

Melissa Pearl was born in Auckland, New Zealand, but has spent much of her life abroad, living in countries such as Jordan, Cyprus and Pakistan... not to mention a nine month road trip around North America with her husband. "Best. Year. Ever!!" She now lives in China with her husband and two sons. She is a trained elementary teacher, but writing is her passion. Since becoming a full time mother she has had the opportunity to pursue this dream and her debut novel hit the internet in November 2011. Since then she has continued to produce a steady stream of books. Recently she signed with Evatopia Press and her first Evatopia book is coming out in February 2014 - True Colors, The Masks Series #1. She is very excited to be trying out new things this year while continuing to publish under her own name as well. She has six books planned for 2014 and is excited about writing each and every one of them.

"I am passionate about writing. It stirs a fire in my soul that I never knew I had. I want to be the best writer I can possibly be and transport my readers into another world where they can laugh, cry and fall in love."


Displaying EmailSig.jpeg

Social Links:
Facebook Author Page:


Blogs:

Amazon Author Page:

Goodreads Author Page:

Smashwords Author Page:

Newsletter subscription:



Other Titles by Melissa Pearl:

The Time Spirit Trilogy
Golden Blood - Black Blood - Pure Blood
The Betwixt Series
Betwixt - Before - Beyond
The Mica & Lexy Series
Forbidden Territory
Forbidden Waters (due for release: 2014)
The Masks Series
Book 2 (due for release: 2014)
Book 3 (due for release: 2014)
Book 4 (due for release: 2015)
I Know Lucy Series
I Know Lucy (due for release: 2014)
Set Me Free (due for release: 2014)
The Song Bird Series
Fever (due for release: June 2014
Hosted by
Displaying 205244_10151287577945916_647527469_n.jpg

Saturday, February 15, 2014

Tallent and Lowery Grand Finale!

To post this Grand Finale and add your Social Media to the Rafflecopter, email Tressa at wishfulendings(at)outlook.com with "Tallent and Lowery Grand Finale" in the subject line!


We left off at All That's Written with the first part of Tallent and Lowery's Valentine Adventure. Here's the special conclusion of our tour with Tallent and Lowery in honor of Valentine's Day:

A Tallent & Lowery Valentine Adventure
PART II:

“Seriously. Where is everybody?” Leah asked, staring at the vacant rooms of the NYPL.

Finally, Gareth understood the strange reaction. “Hey…it’s okay. I swear. The library’s just closed.”

“How is it closed?”

Taking her by the hand, Gareth led her into the Rose Main Reading Room. “You would be amazed how easy it is to get what you want when you have a ton of money to blow.” He laughed. “Besides, it’s snowing like crazy out there. Everyone was grateful to go home to their warm living rooms, and pretend a polar vortex was something that Spielberg made up.”

“You shut down the library so I could follow a treasure map? What are you, five?” Leah offered a smirk.

“I would make a heck of a father, wouldn’t I?” he asked. “Seeing as that, mentally, I would be the same age as the kid.”

Leah cringed. “If there’s an adopted infant hidden in this library I’m gonna run for the hills.”

“No. I figured I had to wait for you to get used to that idea.” 

Leah muttered, “You may be as old as St. Valentine when that happens.” 

“Well,” he began, offering a wide grin, “just make sure not to take too much time. If I’m at the point where I’m gumming my food, I might scare the kid to death.” He pointed down at the small piece of paper. “Shall we begin?”

Shaking her head, Leah remained silent, secretly loving the man’s imagination. Looking down at the first clue - a heart to represent the holiday - Leah felt the trusty card catalogue open in her mind as she thought of all the things that could be related to the first clue. Deciding to go with the simplest answer, Leah turned around and began to walk away from Gareth’s side. 

“Where are you going?” he asked, sprinting to catch up.

“The section on literature of the Middle Ages.”

“Why is that?”

Leah looked up at him, knowing she would never find any clue lurking in the stunning eyes. Gareth was, after all, a man who loved a challenge. “The heart meaning ‘love’ didn’t come about until the end of the Middle Ages. Before that, the heart was just seen as a shape, usually drawn to represent a fig leaf in the medieval era.”

“That reference could be in hundreds of books, which one do you pick?”

Leah grinned. “Hagiography represents the biographies of all different saints and leaders of the Church written over time. But, seeing as that no one has really come to terms with who St. Valentine was, I know there’s no specific bio I could reference.” Reaching out, she took a small book of writings off the shelf that were based on Pope Gelasius.

“Why that guy?” Gareth asked.

“He was the one who made the day civil, so to speak.” She winked. “You see, the Romans celebrated the day as a festival of fertility, not love.”

“Boy, those dudes were into ---, weren’t they?”

“Why do you think the Empire fell?” Leah snorted. “The chicks should have been in charge. What happened was, Roman boys drew names of girls out of an urn, then the couple exchanged…gifts.”

“At least they were happy when they fell,” he said, leaning back against the bookcase. “But, why the Pope?”

“Pope Gelasius was the one who changed the Pagan celebration and put a Christian spin on it, birthing the holiday of St. Valentine.”

“So he was real?”

“There’s some debate,” Leah answered. “There are actually a ton of St. Valentine’s if you read through history. But the most accepted one is a young Roman who died on February 14th, martyred by Emperor Claudius II for the simple fact that the boy refused to give up Christianity.”
   
Flipping through the pages, Leah discovered another small piece of paper with the drawing of two birds sitting side-by-side.” She smiled at the handsome face. “You knew this, huh?” 

“After being with you, I know it’s important to study up.” Lifting her hand, he brushed Leah’s skin with his lips. “So…what do you make of clue number two?”

Turning, Leah immediately walked toward the poet’s corner with Gareth right behind her. Reaching out, she pulled Chaucer from the shelf. 

“Why him?” Gareth nodded at the small book of poems. “There were a ton of romantic bards.” 

“Before the whole ‘romance’ theme was adopted by humans, Chaucer mentioned it in a poem, The Parlement of Foules.” Looking down, she translated the small type and read aloud: “ ‘For this was Saint Valentine’s day, when every bird of every kind comes to this place to choose his mate.’ ”

Gareth grinned as Leah flipped over the page and found yet another clue; a hand-drawn bumblebee stared up at her with a tiny smile. She laughed.

“I suppose you know what that’s all about?” Gareth grinned. “O’ Wise One.”

“Well,” Leah tool a step forward and kissed him on the cheek. “In the original text edition, Chaucer did not use birds as the metaphor in this poem, he used bees. No one knows why it was changed.”

He nodded. “So we head to some insect reference book now?”

Leah stood still, watching the man who was, quite obviously, pretending to be confused. “Apiology, the study of bees, should be there. But zoology is where I would head.”

Walking through the quiet museum to literary beauty Gareth remained silent, waiting for Leah to continue.

Reaching the reference she wanted, Leah picked up the book and turned to the section on a man named Charles Butler. “This is the guy referred to as the ‘Father of English Beekeeping’. He was the genius who figured out there was one Queen surrounded by male drones. And he also first noted that bees created wax honeycombs.”

Flipping the page, Leah looked down at the familiar drawing of a small honeycomb. The words beside it read; ‘The End’. Her brain went into overdrive. “Hmmm…let’s see here. This could reference  mummy masks that were found made of honeycomb; skulls unearthed in ancient times with gemstones stuck to them with beeswax; fabrics or fashion, considering it was used for waterproofing and, of course, the easiest one - candles.”

Gareth smiled wide.

“We don’t have a candle section, per se.”

“What will you do, then?”

An image of the stunning landscape that she and Gareth had visited in the recent past appeared in her mind. “Beeswax candles were seen as high-end and only used by royalty to light their mighty palaces. 18th century England was the most common place to find them.”

Without another word, Leah headed slowly to the Map Room, one of her favorite nooks in the NYPL. Entering, she saw the hundreds of candles illuminating a small table set for two. 

“Hungry?”

Walking to the table, Leah raised the golden dome and looked down at the lasagna - her favorite - gracing the dish. 

Pulling out her chair, she sat, watching the man she loved take his place across from her. “Good job.”

“You too,” he said. “We make a good team.”

As the slight burst of metal hit her gaze, Leah stared at the beautiful beeswax sculpture in the familiar shape of a heart decorating the side of the table. Barely noticeable among the intricate combs of the brilliant material was a locket made of amber. Picking it up carefully, Leah stared at the small clock on the inside. On the adjoining face, the words Tallent & Lowery had been inscribed.

“Time is so special with you,” Gareth said, his voice a soft, deep whisper in the romantic setting. “I’m greedy. I want at least, oh…seventy more years with you. I hope I can have that.”

Studying the face of the man who struck her with awe every time she gazed at him, Leah reached across the table and took his hand. “I hope so too. I can’t wait to tease you when our kid comes to visit us at the home so he can watch Dad gum his food.”

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Did you miss any of the other stops? 
Go back and catch them now!

2/3: Tome Tender - Amy's Writing
A great many times I’m asked what needs to be in place before I begin writing...

2/4: The Wonderings of One Person - Amy's Journey as a Writer
In the end, I always feel so privileged that these characters have become my friends…and I will always owe my entire journey to a kitty that had to go “nightsie.”

+ Coffee and Books and Art - The Sapphire Stone Excerpt
And as sleep overtook him, Emmanuel begged the ‘powers that be’ to lead Leah Tallent safely through the sapphire storm.

2/5: Kelly P's Blog - The Tallent and Lowery Duo
The duo of Tallent & Lowery cast aside petty differences to join together in work, friendship and romance, and I believe have been true ‘voices’ that educate people on how to be strong without harming others.

+ Savings in Seconds - Review
"Lignor creates this tantalizing blend of Indiana Jones, The Mummy, DaVinci Code, and even National Treasure with her characters."

2/6: Cherry Mischievous - Creating a Famous Duo
...When it comes down to duo’s, the literary world has offered more than its fair share. ‘Tallent & Lowery’, hopefully, will become one of those teams that will never be forgotten.

+ Deal Sharing Aunt - 13 Excerpt
Leah began, “Aleister Crowley bought this house in 1899, and stayed here on and off until 1913. He told his followers that he was working on a ceremony that would bring forth an army to do his bidding.”

2/7: Brooke Blogs - Tallent and Lowery Interview, Part I
“Maybe we should practice together before going out there,” he suggested. “You know…curb that sarcasm of yours a bit before revealing it on T.V.”

2/9: Mythical Books - Tallent and Lowery Interview, Part II
“You don’t get air sick.”
“Not true. Those blonde stewardesses who constantly hit on you make me sick.” She winked.

2/10: Fuonlyknew ~ Laura's Ramblins and Reviews - The Hero's Companion Excerpt
Leah dropped her head in her hands as tears of frustration and fear ran down her cold cheeks. She had no idea what she and Gareth would be walking into when they pulled up in front of her childhood home...

2/11: Dividing by Zero - Review
"If you’re looking for mystery, intrigue, and epic quests (along with a bit of romantic tension), make sure to pick up this series!"

2/12: Platypire Reviews - Review
"First and foremost, I just want to say I absolutely loved this book!"

2/13: Books With Bree - Tallent and Lowery Interview, Part III
“Okay…lightning round.” Leah sat up straighter, as she watched Gareth’s stunning smile appear.

+ My Love for Reading Keeps Growing - Bennett & Darcy vs. Tallent and Lowery
Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy will always be my favorite romantic couple, but when it comes to a couple that shares that kind of passion and must rely on each other’s minds and strength to survive extremely frightening experiences, then Leah & Gareth are the ones who fill my mind...

+ All That's Written - Valentine's, Part I
Leah couldn’t find her smile; the busy haven she knew now looked like a place where the world had come to an abrupt end…

The Hero's Companion


Leah Tallent and Gareth Lowery have seen it all, utilizing everything they have to survive. But now, Leah’s father has gone missing and they have only seven days before he’ll be killed. The only clue to follow is a picture of one of the most famous icons of all time, and a strange map hidden in her father’s desk. This new mystery will take them from the pinnacle of the Acropolis to the depths of Cleopatra’s caves in order to unmask the man who has a score to settle.

In a location that’s been buried under rock for centuries the battle will begin, and the team will have to face the one foe that will expose secrets and unleash unheard of power in order to get what he wants. ‘The Hero’s Companion’—the one woman who will do anything to make sure the right side wins, will fight the good fight; but without Gareth, her time may just run out.


The Sapphire Storm (Tallent & Lowery, #2)
The Sapphire Storm


After going up against a man who believed he was the Devil, himself, the beloved characters of Leah Tallent and Gareth Lowery are exhausted. But a terrifying journey awaits…

When Leah arrives home her sarcasm burns even brighter, but a frightening call from Gareth’s sister changes the course of their holiday event. A new puzzle from the past has come to life, and involves a world of liars, killers and greed.

The heart-stopping suspense takes them from Coptic Cairo to the magical world of Petra in search of a cave that once housed a true ‘Illuminator’. They must find the answers to one of the biggest mysteries while staying one step ahead of villains who are determined to make sure that, this time, Tallent & Lowery do not survive.



There are two choices for Book I of the Tallent & Lowery adventure series to be released by Suspense Publishing on December 1st! Here's the 'Vibrant' choice!13


In 1902, thirteen people came together to continue a tradition that’d been set in stone thousands of years before.

In 2012, Leah Tallent, Head of Research at the New York Public Library, is about to unearth the secrets left behind by this crew by joining a crazy man on a fanatical quest. Gareth Lowery has spent his life searching for the ultimate artifact; twelve keys hidden by men whose job it was to protect the single biggest secret ever kept.

The fantastic duo is soon immersed in a whirlwind treasure hunt with historical and passionate repercussions. From the eerie Winchester House to the darkness of Loch Ness, they quickly learn that the theory of duality is correct: For every bad there is a good and, for Heaven, there most assuredly exists...Hell.


COMING SOON!
Tallent & Lowery Book #4: The Charlatan’s Crown

From defeating the worst of mankind to solving puzzles that have eluded others for centuries, Leah Tallent and Gareth Lowery must now follow a new trail to stop a madman from resurrecting a mighty Reich.

Although dead men supposedly tell no tales, the duo continue to follow clues left behind by true powerbrokers from Hell, and now they stand on the precipice of an infamous castle used by those who thrived on hate and terror.

Fighting for their lives from deep inside a labyrinth, they’ll stand atop a stage where an angel of death spoke to the masses, and climb to an ‘Eagle’s Nest’ to come face-to-face with a new enigma; a master puppeteer who’s pulling the strings on a monumental scheme they never saw coming.


Amy Lignor began her career in publishing as the Editor-in-Chief of Grey House Publishing in New England. Working in the publishing industry for decades, she is now the Owner/Operator of The Write Companion which offers full editing, ghostwriting and proofreading services.

Not only is Amy a bestselling author, she has been inducted into the ITW – International Thriller Writers Org. and is a writer/contributor for many companies, including: Authorlink; Humor Outcasts; The Feathered Quill; Bookpleasures; Suspense Magazine, as well as a variety of literary periodicals. She has been the head writer for Be First, Inc., and has just become the Editor-in-Chief of a new imprint: Hallowed Ink Press


Other books by Amy Lignor:
Click the covers to go to Goodreads

Until Next Time (The Angel Chronicles, #1) Gilded Wings (The Angel Chronicles, #2) A Privilege (The Angel Chronicles, #3)

Tour-Wide Giveaway

3 Winners - eCopies of 13, The Sapphire Storm & The Hero's Companion by Amy Lignor
3 Winners - eCopy of The Hero's Companion
1 Winner - eCopy of the new release, The Charlatan's Crown, when it comes available!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Grab Our Button!

Are you a blogger and want to receive information about new tours? Go HERE.
Are you an author or publisher and would like to have us organize a tour event? Go HERE.

Friday, February 14, 2014

Book Tour & Interview with Tax Cut by Michelle Lynn Seigfried


Displaying tax cut large banner 448.jpg

2nd in Series
Cozy Mystery
Self Published (December 21, 2013)
E-Book File Size: 4066 KB
Print Length: 191 pages
ASIN: B00HGMKVGI

goodreads-badge-add-plus


Displaying Tax Cut front cover.jpg

Synopsis

You’ll L.O.L. because Municipal Clerk Chelsey Alton is at it again!  Working for a government riddled with crime, she and her sidekick Bonnie investigate to find out the answer to the pressing question: Who killed Vinny Buttiglieri?  She finds herself entangled with dangerous mobsters and corrupt politicians. She thinks she’s doing the right thing, but can she save herself when she becomes entrenched too deep in this Jersey shore mystery?

Displaying michele photo for book cover.jpg
About This Author

Michele Lynn Seigfried is an award-winning novelist, children’s book author/illustrator and public speaker who was born and raised in New Jersey. In her mystery novels, she draws from her personal expertise in the area of municipal government, in which she has served for over 15 years in two different municipalities. She holds a B.A. in communication from the College of New Jersey with a minor in art. She obtained the Master Municipal Clerk certification from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks in 2010. She also holds the Registered Municipal Clerk certification and Certified Municipal Registrar Certifications from the State of New Jersey.

An Interview with Michele Seigfried

Hi Kelly!  Thanks so much for interviewing me for your blog today!

How long did it take you to write Tax Cut?
It took me about seven months.  With a full-time job, and a daughter in her terrible twos, it’s sometimes hard to find time to write.  Add some writer’s block in there, and well, I wish I could knock the books out faster, but I’m a slow writer!

Use no more than two sentences. Why should we read your book?
Tax Cut will make you laugh and keep you guessing! If you enjoyed book one in the series, Red Tape, you’ll like Tax Cut even more!

What is the most rewarding thing about being a writer?
Hearing that people are enjoying reading my work is the greatest feeling to me. I love providing people with an escape from reality for a little while.

Do you have a favorite comment or question from a reader?
It’s hard to pick one favorite.  So many people have put a smile on my face in the last year with comments, since I began my career as a published writer.  One comment about my first novel that made me laugh was, “Oh for God's sake, it was amazing.”

Who is your favorite author and why?
Janet Evanovich. There are so many books I started to read over the years, then put down, because they didn’t hold my interest.  Not so for the Stephanie Plum series. In book one, when Grandmom shot the chicken, I was hooked.  I literally laughed out loud in a public place. People thought I was nuts.

When you were little, what did you want to be when you “grew up”?
Please don’t laugh at me, but at a very early age, I wanted to be the girl in the Cheryl Tiegs clothing commercial riding the horse. (Oh boy, I’m showing my age here!) And I have no clue why I wanted to be a girl riding a horse! Maybe because we didn’t have horses in the city where I lived at the time. Then around fifth grade, I wanted to be a geologist. Later, I didn’t know what I wanted to do.  I can assure you, I never dreamt of being a full-time government employee, like I ended up. (Who would, right?). I’m happy I get to do the things I love part-time though—writing and art.

What has been your best moment in life so far?
I would have to say the birth of my daughter. I dedicated my first book to her; she makes me so happy. Plus, she was a breach birth which meant I had to have a c-section…i.e. no labor pains!

Which season best fits with your personality and why?
I’m a summer girl through and through. I think it stems from my having scoliosis and that I had to wear a back brace for many, many years.  It was a very painful experience (both physically and mentally). The only time I was allowed to be out of the brace was when I was in a swimming pool.  So, over the summer, I spent many hours in my backyard in the pool to avoid wearing the brace. I looked forward to the warm summer days and the pool each year.

What's a good book that you've read recently?
Dirty Martini by J. A. Konrath.  It was a more serious mystery (not a cozy), but for me, it was a page-turner.  I loved trying to figure out who done it. I found this book for free for the kindle one day, and I haven’t read the other books in the series yet, but you didn’t need to have read the others to understand what was happening.

What is your favorite Quote?
My newest favorite is, “I wasn’t sure if he was trying to serenade me or scare the seagulls off the roof of the municipal building.”  Chelsey Alton, Tax Cut.



Purchase Link
Amazon
Book 1 in Series

Hosted by
Displaying great escape button tour host button.jpg