Author Ann Swann: A Trace of Romance

https://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2024/02/blurb-blitz-tour-trace-of-romance-by.html

Ann Swann will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner.

A TRACE OF ROMANCE

Ann Swann

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GENRE:  Romance

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BLURB:

Laynie & Trace. The first day of her new second-grade school year in tiny Beach Way, Oregon, Laynie and Trace became fast friends. Through the years, their friendship deepened into young love. They did everything together. Then tragedy took the life of his beloved sister, and because of the circumstances of her death, Trace felt compelled to move as far from Beach Way as possible. Laynie was left behind, heartbroken, and alone. But she was no quitter. She picked herself up and, with her family’s help, made a wonderful new life for herself. She heard he’d done the same down in Texas. But now he was back, standing in the doorway of her precious flower shop, taking up all the space the same way he’d always done. Her Trace, larger than life. What was he doing here, after all this time?

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Excerpt:

As he clasped her to his chest, the steady beat of Trace’s big heart finally began to calm her. It thumped strong and solid, just the way she remembered.

They stood that way, her cheek to his chest, for eons—or at least a split second—until she finally gained a measure of control and pushed herself lightly away. “I still can’t believe it’s you.”

“I’m an idiot,” he said. “I’ve missed you. All these years—”

“No,” Laynie shook her head. “Don’t say that.” She cleared the stupid tears collecting in the back of her throat and managed to get herself around the end of the counter so that it was physically between them.

Trace ducked his head and rubbed the edge of his thumb along the corner of his mouth, a small gesture she knew well, one that meant he was contemplating what to say next.

Keeping herself carefully out of his reach, Laynie said, “I’m closing up now.” She pulled the door open, surprised as a big gust of cold air shivered its way inside, setting the red bubble hearts a-sway.

She aimed her key fob at the Jeep and started the engine. Opening the shop door hadn’t been necessary, but her mind was scattered, running on instinct. She needed him to go, but she wanted him to stay. Wanted him to somehow turn back time. Turn back the years to the Trace he’d been before the tragedy that had changed all their lives. Back to the Trace she’d loved and lost.

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AUTHOR Bio and Links:

 Ann has been a writer since junior high school, but to pay the bills she’s waited tables, delivered newspapers, cleaned other people’s houses, taught school, and even had a short stint as a secretary in a rock-n-roll radio station. She also worked as a 911 operator and a police dispatcher.

Ann’s stories began to win awards in her college days. Since then she’s published novels, novellas, and short stories. But even if no one ever bought another book, Ann wouldn’t stop writing. For her, it’s the cathartic pause in a sometimes-crazy world. Most of the time, it even keeps her sane.

https://www.facebook.com/annswann.author

https://www.5princebooks.com/annswann.html

https://authorannswann.com/

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-trace-of-romance-ann-swann/1144417460?ean=2940185916414

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Author Interview K.L. Brady: The Nick Before Christmas

https://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2023/11/nbtm-nick-before-christmas-by-kl-brady.html

K.L. Brady will be awarding a $25 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC o a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

Author Interview: K.L. Brady

1. How did you choose your genre? What made you write this book?

Primarily, I write romantic comedy, but I have dabbled in young adult, traditional romance, and romantic suspense/thriller (which isn’t as odd as it may seem). I’ve always been a hopeless romantic with a good sense of humor (anyone who is hopeless needs one, really), and I spent some part of my life in law enforcement. So, my genres chose me.

I wrote The Nick Before Christmas out of two key elements in my life. First, I wanted to write an older heroine on a quest for her second act. I wanted to tell that story because there are a lot of women (people) in the world who get to a certain age and think, “Welp, that’s it. I wasted my good years,” or “I’m running out of time. I can’t find my calling now.” Well, that’s just hogwash. You can find your calling at any time, any age. Some people were lucky enough to find their callings in their 20s, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late if you’ve reached your fifties. Any time is the right time to find your calling. Any time is the right time to follow it. Twenty-year-olds are the only people who think they have all the answers to life in their twenties–and having been in my twenties (several times, including in my thirties), I thought I knew it all.

The second reason I wrote this story is because my mom passed away in 2012. I found out she was sick and six weeks later she was gone from this world. I was devastated and in many ways I still am. But one of my biggest regrets is that I never had a chance to say goodbye. This story, in a quirky, funny way, allowed me to say goodbye. For that reason, it was almost cathartic to write this story. I needed to do it as much as I wanted to.

Plus, who doesn’t love a Christmas story?

2. Writers write what they know, and must observe the world. Are you a firstborn, middle, or last child and how does this shape your view of the world?

I’m the only child, at least of my mother. My father has two kids, me and my brother. I’ve never used the term “step” with him. He’s just my brother. Anyway, I grew up as an only child. I’ve also been a bit of a loner and introvert, which has made me an observant person. I’ve always been an information sponge, and this characteristic has helped me understand people and their motivations. That’s why my stories focus more on people and their feelings and motivations than scenery and senses. While I know that you need all elements to make a great story, I write what I know…and I know people.

3. Where is your favorite place to write?

I write in my bed most of the time. I’m usually awake ridiculously early in the morning, the house is quiet, nobody’s getting on my nerves, and my creativity is at peak levels. However, during the three seasons of the year when I have my deck set up, I love writing outside on the deck, too. It’s an outdoor living space with egg chairs, rugs, a firepit, and enough bug repellant to keep the area insect-free. My house backs to huge leafy trees, and the air always moves, so it’s the perfect spot to catch a spark of creativity.

4. How do you feel about killing your darlings, and what do you do with the remains?

It’s a necessary part of the creative process. First, you have to be able to admit you have little darlings. Then, you have actually to be willing to hack them out of your work. I wasn’t always so freewheeling with the editor’s pen, but now I’m 16 years into my writing career, and I have no problems cutting out the darlings. I usually save them in a separate document where they can be recycled – either into later scenes or different books.

5. You are introduced to your favorite author. Who is it, and what is that one burning question you must ask them?

Terry McMillan. How did she find and learn to accept her voice when Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison were the standard bearers of African American literature?

It’s a burning question of mine. I didn’t write earlier because I’ve never had a mind for prose and poeticism. I focus on the human elements, so people gifted in all elements of writing, inspire me.

6. Inquiring minds want to know…tell readers something about you that no one knows.

It’s hard to be an author for all these years and find something to speak about that no one knows. If you’ve done enough interviews, you’ve confessed more than any law should allow. A lot of the “no one knows” stuff is posted on my website for the world to see.

I suppose no one really knows that at one time, in my youth, I thought I could be a great actor. No, seriously. This is true even though I’m painfully shy and have never acted in anything public. No, seriously. In my mind, I could out-act Denzel Washington. Ha ha! In my mind ONLY. I think writing is like acting on paper and allows me to do it alone in bed, wearing jammies, which is why I gravitated toward writing. This is my calling, and I followed the right direction.

7. You are stranded on a deserted island with only a backpack for company. What three items are in your survival pack?

Water—for obvious reasons. Snacks for apparent reasons. I’d also carry a notebook with an attached pen – because I’ve got a lot to write and who’s gonna believe I was trapped on a deserted island if I don’t.

8. If you could have one superpower in your existence, what would it be?

Ooh, excellent question. I would love to have the power to change people’s minds and hearts for the good of all humanity. So, basically, I would be Jesus. Oh, what a better world we would live in.

9. Favorite snack?

So many snacks, so little time. I love chocolate anything. And popcorn. When I’m writing, there’s usually a bowl of popcorn nearby. The chewing helps me think…I think. I love tea. I love chips and cookies. I love hummus and crackers. The truth is, I would rather eat dessert or a snack than a meal.

10. Indy 500 – Do you know how to get where you’re going or do you drive the speed limit?

I never drive the speed limit. Lead feet are genetic in my family. I know where I’m going in general. But I’m not afraid to get lost and find my way back, another reason why I gravitated toward writing.

The Nick Before Christmas

by K.L. Brady

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GENRE:   Romance

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BLURB:

Will an angel’s dire warning, a quest to discover a second act by Christmas Eve, and a touch of Christmas Magic lead Nickie Wright back to the one that got away?

Nickie Wright is ready to celebrate the big 5-0 for Christmas in July, but a hot flash leads her to a sobering revelation: her life has hit rock bottom. Her successes–the home and the car–feel empty. Her vision board has been a waste of time, her job is unfulfilling, and she’s mulling over a proposal from Smith, who she’s not sure she likes. The best day of her life spirals into the worst. During a near-death experience, a meeting with her guardian angel presents Nickie with an ultimatum – either go to heaven or return to Earth and find her second act by Christmas Eve. If she fails, her future’s bleak — her life will be filled with days no better than her worst.

Her second act sets her on a collision path with Evan Goodman, the man who makes her content, and Jordan Devlin, the first love who drives her crazy. She’s torn between two worlds–contentment and safety, passion and excitement.

Time is running out for Nickie.

She only has from Christmas in July until Christmas Eve to find her calling, follow her dreams, and figure out which romantic interest will help Nickie embrace the best of herself.

The Nick Before Christmas is the perfect romantic comedy to help you find your calling and renew your faith. It delivers unforgettable moments of self-discovery and romance. It’s an enchanting story to fill your heart with joy this Christmas.

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Excerpt:

Sasha approached…and based on the sound of footsteps, she wasn’t alone.

“Nickie? Uh….You have company?”

“Who?”

Into the threshold stepped Evan…and Jordan, both carrying sizeable brown shopping bags scented with contents that smelled a whole lot like dinner.

Evan ghosted her for weeks, dropped off the radar. J. Dev blew her off and was off parading with Ava, or so she thought. Now both stood in her living room, in the flesh, at the same time. She had no idea how to handle this. Nickie had never been a juggler so two potential courters in her presence, in her house, wasn’t a situation she expected to face. She couldn’t have orchestrated this cluster if she tried.

Their faces sapped the air out of her lungs. Laying the blame on Sasha wasn’t an option.

Her stomach growled, reminding of her greatest need in the moment. If worse comes to worst, Nickie pledged to keep the dinner and cannoli…and dump the two unexpected guests.

“Jordan, Evan…what a surprise to welcome you…both…in my living room…right now,” Nickie said, her eye volleying between them so as not to give one more attention than the other.

Evan glanced at Jordan without speaking a single word, and Jordan returned the favor. She suspected each was eager to learn what the other had to say.

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AUTHOR Bio and Links:

USA Today Bestselling author K. L. Brady is a D.C. native and award-winning author of 20 novels. She self-published her first book, THE BUM MAGNET, after an Oprah “live your best life” moment, which was picked up by Simon & Schuster in a two-book deal. She’s been publishing romantic comedies ever since.

K.L. is a Washington football fan and professed nerd-girl who loves all things Star Trek, Star Wars, and Big Bang Theory. She lives to write stories involving hilarious quirky characters looking for love. She’s hard at work on her next several projects, including Sincerely, Santa, a heartfelt romantic comedy that also celebrates the special friendship between her late mother and grandmother.

Sign up for her newsletter at: http://klbradyauthor.com/sign-up/

Author Links: 

Website: www.klbradyauthor.com

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/KLBRADY

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/klbrady_author/

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/k-l-brady

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/K.-L.-Brady/author/B002O15D78?

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2975069.K_L_Brady

The book will be on sale for $0.99.

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Author T.E. Lorenzo: A Twist Of Hate

https://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2024/01/blurb-blitz-tour-twist-of-hate-by-te.html

The author will award a $15 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner.

A TWIST OF HATE

T.E. Lorenzo

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GENRE:  Romance

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BLURB:

They love to hate each other…

Natalia is content with hating her co-worker, Adrian. The two can hardly stand being in the same room, despite having worked together for several months. When Natalia agrees to a trip out of town with a friend, little does she know that Adrian will be there, too. This is the time to crank up the hate, right?

The trip is not what Natalia thought it would be. Forced to spend time with her enemy, she finds there is more to Adrian than meets the eye. Will Natalia push aside her hatred and see the true Adrian?

​With a twist of hate, just maybe…

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Excerpt:

All Natalia could think about was another opportunity to get Adrian to speak to her before they wandered around the desert together. She thought the odds might be in her favor, considering she had overheard Denver mention that he and Adrian would leave for the airport immediately after their shift ended today. Vegas would be at the forefront of Adrian’s mind. Surely he would clear the tension that had grown so awkward and heavy between them before he left.

Further playing into her hands was the special seating arrangement drawn up for the day. Lopez assigned both Adrian and Natalia to desks on the suite level, and they’d be in the same row, four seats apart.

Once she saw this seating chart posted on Friday, Natalia knew she had to crank up the heat for the big day. She dressed in a form-fitting pencil skirt that cut off just above the knees, revealing the Speedy Gonzales tattoo just above her ankle. She had even shaved—in the winter—to make sure her legs were as appealing as possible.

Natalia also wore a blouse that revealed the slightest glimpse of cleavage. She questioned herself as she dressed earlier this morning, wondering why she was putting in so much effort into her appearance to get Adrian’s attention. She hated him, after all.

It’s not for Adrian. It’s for me. I’m freshly single, going to Vegas in two days, and life is good. I can get sexy all for myself if I want to.

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AUTHOR Bio and Links:

TE Lorenzo is the debut author of A Twist of Hate. Having lived through his own enemies-to-lovers story, he believes love can come from the most unexpected of places. When he’s not writing, TE is likely chasing his kids around, playing baseball, or relaxing with a good book. He is currently living out his happily-ever-after with his wife and three kids in their hometown of Denver, CO. 

AMAZON LINK: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP2TF94Z

BN: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-twist-of-hate-te-lorenzo/1144416094

KOBO: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/a-twist-of-hate

SW: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1485296?ref=5princepub

GOOGLEPLAY: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/T_E_Lorenzo_A_Twist_of_Hate?id=PbTlEAAAQBAJ

Website: https://www.5princebooks.com/telorenzo.html

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Author Interview Patricia Leavy: The Location Shoot

https://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2023/09/name-before-masses-location-shoot-by.html

Patricia Leavy will be awarding a $10 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

Author Interview Patricia Leavy

1. How did you choose your genre? What made you write this book?

Romance has become my favorite genre. I absolutely love writing love stories. My novels are about love in all forms and how it leads to self-discovery. There’s something really uplifting and hopeful writing about love and I find that when I’m immersed in a story-world, the love and affection lives inside of me too. The Location Shoot was a lockdown project. Like most people, I was bored at home, binge-watching movies, double-fisting potato chips, and filled with existential doom. I wanted to escape to someplace joyful, romantic, and creative. I love a feel-good celebrity romance and anything that’s about creativity, so I decided to write a love story that takes place on a film set. Due to the pandemic, I was thinking about the big questions of life, and so I decided to write a novel about a group making a film about the meaning of life and living together in seclusion. Given the topic of the film, my heroine became a philosopher joining the group for the summer.

2. Writers write what they know, and must observe the world. Are you a firstborn, middle, or last child and how does this shape your view of the world?

I’m the last. My two sisters are significantly older than I am so in a lot of ways I grew up more like an only child. When you’re on your own, you turn to your imagination. It’s served me well since as a novelist I basically spend my life hanging out with imaginary friends.

3. Where is your favorite place to write?

I love to write in cafés. The energy fuels me. I live in a little seaside vacation town and there’s a beautiful Parisian-style café down the street. I’m a regular. I usually sit at a corner table, overlooking their outdoor area surrounded by greenery. I write there for hours. The treats are delicious too, especially the macarons.

4. How do you feel about killing your darlings, and what do you do with the remains?

I always feel heartbroken when a character dies. It only happens when it’s important so that the other characters may learn something about life, and our mortality. The fact is that life is short and temporary. We all reach the same inevitable conclusion. Yet there’s so much possibility for beauty too if we don’t stand in our own way and squander it.

5. You are introduced to your favorite author. Who is it, and what is that one burning question you must ask them?

I’m a fan of many authors, and because I know some of them personally, it’s impossible to pick a favorite. Years ago, when I met Carolyn Ellis, a long-time inspiration, I didn’t ask her any questions. I thanked her, and I may have shed an embarrassing number of tears too.

6. Inquiring minds want to know…tell readers something about you that no one knows.

I panic every time I sign a book contract. I’ve published over 40 books, and yet, each time I sign up for another one, I literally freak out about whether I’ll be able to write it.

7. You are stranded on a deserted island with only a backpack for company. What three items are in your survival pack?

iPod, notebook, pen.

8. If you could have one superpower in your existence, what would it be?

Invisibility.

9. Favorite snack?

If we’re talking unhealthy, potato chips. If we’re trying to be more nutritious, wild Maine blueberries. They have a really short season but they’re amazing.

10. Indy 500 – Do you know how to get where you’re going or do you drive the speed limit?

The speed limit. My sense of direction is so bad that my husband jokes I can’t find my way down the driveway.

The Location Shoot

by Patricia Leavy

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GENRE: Romance

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BLURB: Controversial filmmaker Jean Mercier is shooting a film on location in Sweden. While spending the summer creating his latest work of cinematic art, he lives in a nearby inn with his lead actors: Albie Hughes, British veteran of stage and screen; Charlotte Reed, British indie film queen; Michael Hennesey, American TV heartthrob; Willow Barnes, fallen former teen star looking to make a comeback; and Finn Forrester, legendary Hollywood movie star. Mercier invites his friend Ella Sinclair—a beautiful, bohemian-spirited American philosopher known for her provocative writing—to stay with them for the summer. When Ella arrives, Finn is instantly enchanted by her, and soon they fall madly in love. Finn wants to plan a life together, but Ella harbors fears and convinces him to wait until the film wraps to decide their future. In a case of life imitating art, the film they are creating explores “the big questions” and prompts the stars to reflect on the crossroads they face in their own lives. How will their experiences on location affect them when they return home? The answers won’t come until months later, when the cast and crew reconvene on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival—but their revelation will make for one unforgettable night.

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Excerpt:

Soon they were soaking in the tub, surrounded by the soft glow of candlelight. Ella leaned against Finn and sighed contentedly as he wrapped his strong arms around her.

“I thought about you all day today,” he said.

“You did?”

“I couldn’t get the image of you with those kids out of my head. You were such a natural with them.”

“I’m crazy for tiny humans, always have been. I love their curiosity, big imaginations, big emotions. When a toddler is overjoyed, it’s infectious. They can’t contain it and it just oozes out of them. They feel everything so fully, so honestly, with their whole selves.”

“Do you want to have children of your own?”

“Finn…”

He squeezed her waist and said, “Have you ever thought about it?”

“Have you?” she asked, turning to face him.

“Ella, I would love to have a family with you someday, when we’re ready. Do you want to have a family with me?”

“Well, yes, but…”

“But what, baby?”

“I would want to have children with you, but I wouldn’t want to have them without you.”

“What do you mean?”

“The way I grew up, it just made me not want to do it on my own.”

“You wouldn’t be. We’d be together. I’m not going anywhere.”

“Finn, there’s more than one way to be alone. You spend your life flying around the world to shoot movies and attend film festivals. Where would that leave me? Alone.”

“Sweetheart, if we choose to have a family someday, some things would obviously change. I’ve been thinking about this since we met, but I didn’t want to bring it up and scare you away by asking too much too soon. But after I saw you today, I thought we could at least talk about it. It’s just a conversation.”

“You’ve been thinking about it all this time?”

“Yes,” he said, gently running his fingers down her arm.

“What have you been thinking about?”

“Well, we could take some time to be alone together, to travel. If we had a child, you would both travel with me to film sets. I can get the studio to rent us a house. We’d hire a nanny and any other kind of help we want so you could write, I could work, and we could all be together. When our oldest is school-aged, I would only take jobs in LA, except maybe in the summers when we could all still travel as a family. We could show them the world. Being a husband and father would be my priority. You wouldn’t go to so much as a single doctor’s appointment alone unless you wanted to. If I had to give up acting and be a stay-at-home dad, that’s fine too.”

“Wow. You’ve really thought about this.”

“Well, yeah. I can’t help it. Our future spilled out before me when you told me you love me. But it’s just a fantasy. Sweetheart, there’s no pressure. Until today, I didn’t even know if children were a possibility. If we live our lives together, just the two of us, I’d be perfectly happy.” He planted a soft kiss in her hair.

“Just a fantasy?” she asked.

“Yeah, for now. Do you ever fantasize about our future?”

She nodded.

“Tell me.”

“Well, I always imagined that I’d keep working, but less than I do now. I’d want to spend time with my babies.”

“Babies?” he asked. “How many?”

“Three. Two girls and then a boy. I don’t care about gender, it’s just what I imagine.”

He rubbed her shoulder. “Tell me more.”

“They’d all look like you,” she said.

“Oh, see, in my mind each one of them looks just like you.”

She smiled and he kissed the tip of her nose.

“Keep going,” he said.

“Well, I like your idea of traveling together. I imagined that…”

“What, baby?”

“It’s silly.”

“Tell me anyway.”

“Well, it’s just a fantasy, but I can picture us buying a little house in the French countryside for summers and holidays. You know, one of those old stone houses with wooden beams on the ceilings and a wood-burning stove, with plenty of room outside for the kids to roll around in the grass and a space for me to write.” She crinkled her nose and shook her head. “I told you, it’s silly.”

“Not to me. I think it sounds perfect,” he said, kissing her. “So, two girls and a boy, huh? I should warn you, I’ve always liked traditional names, like Emily and Sarah. I’m guessing you gravitate toward more free-spirited names like Lula Belle or Blue Moon. I’m prepared to fight you on this.” He playfully put up his dukes, but she grabbed one of his hands and kissed it.

She laughed. “Actually, I was thinking if we had a girl, maybe we’d call her Betty. It’s completely traditional, but modern too. I don’t know. It’s just a thought.”

“Betty, huh? I love it. And you know what else? I love you.” He stopped to stroke the side of her face. “I love you so much, Ella. There’s no fantasy we can’t make a reality if we choose to. Come on, sweetheart. Let’s dry off and slip into bed. I want to show you exactly how I feel about you.”

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

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Patricia Leavy, PhD, is an award-winning, best-selling author. She was formerly Associate Professor of Sociology, Chairperson of Sociology & Criminology, and Founding Director of Gender Studies at Stonehill College. She has published more than forty books; her work has been translated into many languages, and she has received more than forty book honors. Her last novel, Hollyland, was featured on She Reads in “The Most Anticipated Romances of Spring 2023” and was the 2023 Firebird Book Awards 1st Place Winner in Pop Culture Fiction and 1st Place Winner in Summer/Beach Read. Patricia has also received career awards from the New England Sociological Association, the American Creativity Association, the American Educational Research Association, the International Congress of Qualitative Inquiry, and the National Art Education Association. In 2018, she was honored by the National Women’s Hall of Fame and SUNY-New Paltz established the “Patricia Leavy Award for Art and Social Justice.” Patricia lives in Maine. In addition to writing, she enjoys art, reading, and travel.

https://www.amazon.com/Location-Shoot-Novel-Patricia-Leavy/dp/1647425670

https://www.amazon.com/Hollyland-Novel-Patricia-Leavy/dp/1647422965 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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Author Interview Bernadette Marie: Secret Admirer Pact

https://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2023/12/vbt-secret-admirer-pact-by-bernadette.html

Bernadette Marie will be awarding a $25 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

Author Interview Bernadette Marie

1. How did you choose your genre? What made you write this book?

I am a lover of contemporary romance / rom coms, so it is just natural to me to write them. This is my 57th book, so it is totally my style. I wrote this book specifically as a fun Valentine’s Day piece. A friends to lovers trope, which is one of my faves.

2. Writers write what they know, and must observe the world. Are you a firstborn, middle, or last child and how does this shape your view of the world?

I’m a firstborn, and I do a lot of observing as a protector, which I think comes with being the firstborn.

3. Where is your favorite place to write?

I don’t have a favorite place, per say. I am very lucky to be able to write anywhere…and I mean anywhere. I’m not disturbed by people or noise. I have my laptop and I will travel and write always.

4. How do you feel about killing your darlings, and what do you do with the remains?

I don’t often kill my darlings. Now, some of my side darlings fall ill, but I don’t do anything graphic ever.

5. You are introduced to your favorite author. Who is it, and what is that one burning question you must ask them?

Right now my favorite author is Emily Henry. I think my only question would be, “Hey, would you like to get some coffee and go shopping?” This is how you make friends.

6. Inquiring minds want to know…tell readers something about you that no one knows.

I grew up in a produce warehouse. I have been able to drive forklifts and move pallets since I was 7 years old.

7. You are stranded on a deserted island with only a backpack for company.

What three items are in your survival pack? My laptop, solar battery pack, water purifying water bottle.

8. If you could have one superpower in your existence, what would it be? I’ve always wanted to be invisible.

9. Favorite snack?

My favorite snack is Mini York Peppermint Patties. One is just enough to fill that chocolate need, and you can’t eat too many of them at a time.

10. Indy 500 – Do you know how to get where you’re going or do you drive the speed limit?

I always know where I’m going. I think I’m driving the speed limit, but others may have a difference of opinion.

Secret Admirer Pact

by Bernadette Marie

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GENRE:   Romance

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BLURB:

When Will seeks to rekindle a flame with his ex-girlfriend, his best friend Monique reluctantly suggests a plan involving secret admirer notes to divert his ex’s attention. In a surprising turn, Monique finds herself infatuated with her new boss, prompting Will to reciprocate with anonymous tokens of affection. However, as the deceptive game unfolds, both Monique and Will come to realize that the heartfelt sentiments expressed in the secret admirer notes were their own true feelings. So, what happens if the plan works? What happens if it doesn’t?

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Excerpt:

“Happy New Year, sweetheart,” he says, his words slurred from champagne.

“Sure,” I say, letting my eyes close. “Can’t even imagine anything happy about it.”

“Cynical,” he teases, but I don’t have the energy to argue with him.

Lifting my head, I sit back in my chair, and scan a look over him. Will’s hair looks like he just rolled out of bed, but that wasn’t how he looked when he’d brought me home. Alcohol and stress has had him raking his fingers through it until now it stands on end.

Will is a handsome guy, though lacking in any fashion sense. He’s my ride or die friend, has been since middle school, and I adore him.

“Are you going home?” I ask, noticing his eyes blink slower, or maybe my eyes are blinking slowly.

“No. Since you begged me to drink away the old year with you, you’re going to have to let me sleep on your couch.”

I was hoping he’d say that. I don’t want him to leave. Tonight, I want the company.

“Do you think she’s home?” I ask.

Will leans his elbow onto the table, resting his head in his palm, and he watches me. I move to mimic him, placing my elbow on the table, and my head in my hand.

“She’s home,” he says. “I’m just afraid that maybe she’s not alone.”

I reach for his other hand, and lace our fingers together.

“You know your living situation makes no sense, right?” I say.

“I know that more than anyone,” he admits.

“I mean, who lives with their ex?”

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

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Bestselling Author Bernadette Marie writes contemporary romances and believes in Happily Ever After. The married mother of five believes in love at first sight, quick love, and second chances. An avid martial artist, Bernadette Marie is a certified instructor and holds a third degree black belt in Tang Soo Do. She loves Tai Chi, traveling to Disney parks, and having lunch with friends. When not writing, or running her own publishing house, Bernadette is probably immersed in a Rom Com, from which she will often quote one-liners.

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BUY LINKS:

AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP4T78KG

BN: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/book/1144426105?ean=2940185950555

SMASHWORDS: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1485967

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Author Interview D.W. Brooks: Homecoming Chaos

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D.W. Brooks will award a randomly drawn winner a $15 Amazon/BN GC.

Author Interview: D.W. Brooks

1. How did you choose your genre? What made you write this book?

I have spent most of my reading life reading mysteries and thrillers—starting with Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden. My first (failed) attempt at writing stories when I was eight years old focused on trying to create a coherent mystery story. So, writing mysteries was always my goal. Once I created the character of Jamison, having a romance incorporated into the story seemed like the next logical step.

During the early-to-mid 2010s, I developed kidney failure due to a hereditary condition. I had to spend a lot of time in bed, which seemed like it might be fun but, in actuality, became quite boring. Dialysis was even more challenging. It created a lot of wasted time, so I decided to write a novel. I had come up with my main character already, so I built the story from there. It took me a while to complete, and once I did, I sat on it for a couple of years while I received my kidney transplant and my father moved into our house. After he passed away, I took another look at Homecoming Chaos and decided I was going to publish it and see how readers would respond.

2. Writers write what they know, and must observe the world. Are you a firstborn, middle, or last child and how does this shape your view of the world?

I am an ONLY child. Honestly, I HATED it, and, in many ways, I still do.

I spent a lot of time with my parents, which was wonderful. I wasn’t treated like an adult, but they (for the most part) seemed interested in what I had to say. They took me to many cultural activities, we spent a lot of time with our extended families, and I could take part in many sport teams and music and dance lessons. My parents didn’t get me everything I wanted, but they made sure I got to do the things I needed to and many of the things I wanted to. For example, I made my high school dance team. My parents ended up getting all my uniforms made from scratch and spent over $1000 so I could be on my high school dance team.

Even with that kind of attention, and multiple cousins around that were around my age, I still felt lonely sometimes. It probably played a role in my love of reading. I learned to entertain myself because there wasn’t always someone around to play or talk with. That carries over today. During the pandemic, I was more afraid of getting ill (immunosuppressed because of the kidney transplant) than having to stay in the house. My family was at home, but I could read, watch TV or movies, write, look at my computer, cook…the list of activities went on and on. I didn’t want to have to stay in, but I wasn’t bored.

I also find it challenging now that both of my parents have died. It was more obvious when my father lived with my family, and we had to help with his care. My father had planned well for this stage of his life, so we could afford outside help. My husband and children were helpful as well, but I didn’t have any siblings to help with the decisions. Having a sibling could have been nice. While I know siblings don’t always get along, I didn’t want to have only one child myself and put that child the same situation.

Being an only child had a large impact on who I am today.

3. Where is your favorite place to write?

Looking at the ocean. I would say on the beach, but the glare from the sun and water can make that difficult. Sitting on the terrace outside my hotel room with my computer is about as good as it gets.

4. How do you feel about killing your darlings, and what do you do with the remains?

Killing your darlings can hurt. You wrote the perfect scene with the perfect comeback line, and it just won’t fit in the story anywhere! Obviously, you try to resurrect it somewhere, even if it is in another story, if you can!

I did kill some content from Homecoming Chaos. Some of it is dead forever with no hope of resurrection, but a nice bit of it ended up being the basis of my prequel novella, I Do CHAOS. I have started on a second novel in the Model MD Series already, but I have wavered on the storyline. So, some darlings are being killed in my next novel as we speak!

5. You are introduced to your favorite author. Who is it, and what is that one burning question you must ask them?

First, I have to decide who my favorite author is. It would likely be a writer of some classic novel, like Charles Dickens or Alexandre Dumas.

I would love to ask Alexandre Dumas how being a man of African descent in France during that timeframe affected his writing.

6. Inquiring minds want to know…tell readers something about you that no one knows.

I just learned how to swallow pills. Like only in the last six years since I got the kidney transplant. And even now, I have to break some of them into smaller pieces or even chew them to get them down. It’s my hidden shame!

7. You are stranded on a deserted island with only a backpack for company. What three items are in your survival pack?

I guess there is no internet or electricity on this island? So, no tablet, cell phone, or laptop. I would need a pair of sturdy and big water bottles, paper, and a book. Because of my kidney transplant, I have to have a lot of water available all day so I would prepare my water at night and put it in the water bottles. I need paper to write and doodle on. I can fashion my own charcoal (by burning wood) to write. And a blanket to protect from the hot sun or the cool nights.

Now, hopefully, this is not a long-term stay on the deserted island. I need to take my medicine (I am pretending it was in my pockets, so I am not counting it among the three items!).

8. If you could have one superpower in your existence, what would it be?

I had to look this up because I am not familiar with many superpowers except for the obvious—super strength, super speed, ability to talk to the animals, shapeshifting. I am using my knowledge of the Super Friends cartoon from my childhood.

I found the superpower I would want: temporal lock. You are immune to time, so you aren’t impacted by it. It renders you timeless. I needed that around age 33 because that’s the age that I was in my best shape and health. My kidneys were still normal. If I could have physically stayed at 33, it would be perfect!

9. Favorite snack? 

I love popcorn. Plain, buttery, caramel, white cheddar, Chicago style, kettle corn—it’s all great! I eat popcorn several times a week.

10. Indy 500 – Do you know how to get where you’re going or do you drive the speed limit?

It is a running gag in my family that I always drive the speed limit. Even if we are running late or if there is no one else on the road, I stick to the limit. I also get lost a lot, so driving the speed limit is the best way not to miss street signs and other markers to help me get to where I need to go.

The speed limit issue is ironic because when I was younger, I was less interested in obeying it. I had a Black Camaro which I drove very fast all around the country. Limits were suggestions. But when I had children, I suddenly lost my lead foot and began obeying all speed laws. Who knew?

PS. I marched in the Indy 500 parade my junior year in high school when I was on the Lee High School dance team. We rode up there on school buses, slept in what I can only assume were barracks, and sat in the infield at the race. Coolest thing ever…until my first novel hit the streets!

HOMECOMING CHAOS

by D.W. Brooks

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GENRE:  Romantic Suspense/Mystery/African American Fiction

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BLURB:

A dead body in the parking lot of her family’s business, a killer on the loose, and a handsome detective asking a lot of questions…

Jamie Scott’s life fell apart four years ago when she broke off her engagement, turned down a dream job, and went overseas to run away from her life. Now she’s back, but the reunion is not without problems. She arrives home just in time to attend the soiree her mother planned, but she’s not prepared for what she finds—a dead employee in the parking lot.

Detective Nick Marshall is assigned to the murder case at the forensics lab owned by Jamie’s family. He meets the headstrong Jamie, but he has a job to do. And his attraction to her… well, he’s a professional.

Jamie knows the stakes are high. She has to face the past and save her parents’ business while dealing with her family drama and an uncertain future. She also has to deal with Nick, who wants her out of the way of his investigation. But fate keeps throwing them in one another’s paths… and into chaos that they both want to avoid, but neither can seem to escape.

Excerpt:

“Wait, wait. Hold on. Do you have a warrant? Do we need an attorney?” Jamison stood up, too. She was almost as tall as the detective and incredibly pretty up close, which caught him off guard. “Aren’t there proprietary issues at the lab?”

Nick paused and deferred to Ronald. Ronald chimed in. “We’re just trying to get information about this woman’s death. You can call a lawyer if you wish but retaining one may slow things down.”

“Hmmm.” Jamie stared at both detectives. She couldn’t read either of them, but the situation gave her pause. She recognized the importance of finding out what had happened to their employee. However, the family business needed to be shielded as much as possible. Jamie hadn’t been back long, and her brain was still cloudy and jet-lagged, but she recognized the potential perils in just letting the police roam free in the lab. “Dad, Mother, someone should call Richard,” she said, scrutinizing both parents.

Margaret said, “Good idea. I’ll call while I change. He can meet us there.” She gave the detective and the other officers a superior glance. “Richard Bradshaw, he’s a partner at Bradshaw, Taylor, and Kline, and he is our son-in-law.” She turned to walk into the master suite, with Gregory following.

Nick shook his head, and Ronald was less subtle with a steady scowl. Both had heard about Richard’s firm and peripherally knew Richard. This situation just got a lot more difficult. Nick didn’t suspect the family, but involving a lawyer usually complicated their police work. He turned back to Jamie, who was studying his reaction. He adjusted his face so she couldn’t sense his annoyance.

Jamie noted the subtle change and smiled to herself. She could tell she had annoyed him. Even annoyed, he’s pretty cute. “I need to get my coat. If you will excuse me,” she said, heading back to her bedroom.

Upstairs, Jamie changed clothes, retrieving a pair of skinny black jeans from her bag. As she slid into her jeans, her mind wandered to the detective. She typically dated guys that were taller than her—with her ex-fiancé being the lone exception—Eddie had been the same height. A strong jaw, wavy-ish hair, nice lips, and a commanding presence—which Jamie suspected the detective had in spades—didn’t hurt either. Just the type of guy she would typically go for if the circumstances were different. Rifling through the dresser, she found a white Henley shirt she’d left on a previous visit. She had gained almost fifteen pounds since then, and the shirt fit snugly. She now had boobs! Placing the hat back on her head, she was glad she had an appointment at the hair salon later in the day.

Yikes, she thought after catching herself primping in the mirror. Am I trying to impress the detective who’s investigating us? Girl, it has been a long time. Although he is hot. She shook her head exasperatedly.

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AUTHOR Bio and Links:

The author is a doctor and editor who lives in Texas with her husband and children. She enjoys trying to stay in shape, sporadically cooking, reading (still), writing, and working on her blog. She is eternally grateful to the woman who donated a kidney to her over 5 years ago and continues to advocate for organ donation as much as she can.

To learn more about D. W. Brooks and future publications and events, visit https://authordwbrooks.com.

Website: https://authordwbrooks.com

Facebook: https://facebook.com/authordwbrooks

Instagram: https://instagram.com/authordwbrooks.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lifethereboot

Sales

https://authordwbrooks.com for an autographed copy

or https://www.amazon.com/Homecoming-Chaos-D-W-Brooks-ebook/dp/B0CKS9P7PF

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/book/1144277742?ean=9798218150501

https://books.apple.com/us/book/homecoming-chaos/id6469733473

https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=eincEAAAQBAJ&rdid=book-eincEAAAQBAJ

https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/homecoming-chaos

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Author A.C. James: Nerd Meets Curvy

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. The author will award a winner a book box with the stunning hardback special edition with sprayed and stenciled edges, a dual-sided dust jacket, and custom swag. Please include this link with your post for her giveaway: https://acjames.com/blogs/news/nerdmeetscurvystories-hashtag-challenge-special-edition-book-box-giveaway

Coralie dreads starting over, but Mystic River beckons her home like a siren’s call. Armed with determination and a toolkit full of DIY magic, Coralie sets out to revive her grandmother’s worn-down house. If anyone can breathe new life into the old walls, it’s her. And with lifelong friendships awaiting her, she has a support system as sturdy as a bear shifter’s embrace.

Little does she know that her homecoming will launch her into the wildest roller coaster ride of midlife dating and a mating bond that makes her head spin faster than a tornado. Coralie certainly hadn’t signed up for this level of excitement, but here she was, courtesy of the enigmatic mastermind herself, Mrs. Wilde. The queen of matchmaking and the architect of the notorious Peculiar Hearts Dating Agency promises Coralie a spicy rebound for her upcoming high school reunion.

Enter Jax, a scorching hot bear shifter haunted by a love that’s gripped him since high school. Just when he finally has a shot at settling down, a pesky ex-harpy swoops in, flapping her wings and causing more drama than a forest full of squawking birds. Tired of the chaos, this bear is ready to throw in the towel and hibernate for good!

But as they say, fate has a wicked sense of humor.

Beneath the surface of his chance to make things right and rewrite history are secrets that could detonate like a ticking time bomb, threatening to shatter their fragile bond. Coralie holds a haunting secret buried deep within her heart. It shapes the choices that molded her into the fierce, curvy woman she is today. As for Jax, his past is a murky labyrinth of pain and darkness. Lives and love swing on a high-stakes pendulum as danger closes in.

Can Coralie and Jax beat the odds, untangle the mystery of the danger stalking them, and build a future that defies the limits of their pasts?

Read an Excerpt

Coralie doubted her decision to visit Mrs. Wilde, the matchmaker with an enigmatic reputation. It felt like a leap of faith that teetered on the edge of being a colossal mistake. She had confided in Jessie, expressing her reservations about the whole mess. But she had stood at Eleanora’s door, unable to turn back. After all, Jessie had driven her here. It would be incredibly rude to stand up the sprightly matchmaker after her friend had made the appointment and likely bartered something with Mrs. Wilde. Coralie couldn’t help but wonder what kind of deal Jessie had struck.

Coralie inhaled, steeling herself as she met Eleanora’s piercing gaze. There was a glimmer of hope, so faint it was almost imperceptible. “Honestly, I don’t know anymore.”

“Your sex life may be nonexistent, but deep down, do you want it to be?” Eleanora asked, cutting right to the chase.

Coralie took a moment to ponder the question, considering the possibilities. Jessie’s persistent nudging had pushed her to this moment, and perhaps it was time to let go of the past. She had grown comfortable in her skin, embracing her curves, plus-size hourglass figure, and innate sensuality. The hurtful words of her ex still lingered, but she refused to let them define her. She didn’t want to resign to a life of spinsterhood and missed opportunities.

She licked her lips, feeling a flutter of excitement in her stomach. Wasn’t it time for her to indulge in some fun and pleasure? Besides, she had a looming high-school reunion on the horizon, and she needed a date who could turn heads.

“I may not be ready for a serious commitment at the moment, but I think I could handle some no-strings-attached fun,” Coralie confessed, her voice taking on a husky tone. “And I definitely need a date for my reunion.”

Eleanora pursed her lips, assessing Coralie with a shrewdness that made her squirm. “Is that all you want, my dear? A shifter with the perfect balance of charm and wildness? Are you absolutely certain that’s all you’re looking for?”

About the Author:

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author A.C. James writes paranormal romance and erotica, including Eternal Ever After (rebranded as Eternal Lover), featured in the bestselling Spice Box anthology. Her Ever Dark Immortals Series, which begins with Eternal Lover, has been described as “brimming with sensuality” and “romantic and sizzling hot.” The Isle of the Horse Shifters series starts with Ride: Awakening and is “lighthearted,” that is a “joy ride from beginning to end.”

She resides in the Philadelphia suburbs with her adoring husband Ron (aka Mr. A.C. James), who loves her imaginative yarns and punny sense of humor. She’s also a domestic violence advocate and discusses intimate partner violence and addiction to raise awareness on social media and through her writing. Many of her books include themes like alcoholism or addiction. If you love books that feature underdogs and redemption, her stories will capture your heart.

She spends most of her time drinking large vats of coffee while wrangling kids by day and writing by night. Recovering video game beta tester and tech geek who grew up going to cons and watching SmackDown. There’s probably some cosplay pictures around somewhere of her dressed up as Bloodberry from Saber Marionette J. Just don’t tell anyone.

Connect With Me

Newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/acjames

Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/acjamesbookclub

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Website: https://acjames.com/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Nerd-Meets-Curvy-Peculiar-Hearts-ebook/dp/B0CJ85QSWD/ref=sr_1_1

Author Candi Scott: Fashionista’s Playbook

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. The author will award a randomly drawn winner a $50 Amazon GC. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

The door to the New York fashion world shut firmly in her face, Moriah Stanhope’s only option seems to be to return to her small-town home as a failure. At least, she would go home in disgrace, but her car was just repossessed. In front of the hottest guy she’s ever seen.

Travis Madera is supposed to hire an assistant. One with qualifications and experience. Someone who won’t be starstruck by the fact he’s a professional football player. But he never could resist a damsel in distress, especially one with all those curves.

Moriah’s been humiliated in front of guys like Travis before. But as his assistant, she has access to every moment of his day-to-day life, so surely she can stay ahead of any potential problems.

Until the past comes rushing into the present.

Read an Excerpt

“You’re kidding, right?” I sat straight on the leather sofa and gaped at Moriah.

She was grinning, a big cheesing smile that would have turned me on had what she was telling me not been so ridiculous. “Indeed not.”

Damn it. She wasn’t supposed to find humor in my misery.

“I thought you were Team Madera.” I scowled. There was no way this was happening to me. A large chunk of my masculine pride rebelled, and I recoiled as she stepped closer.

Moriah’s giggle was vibrant, rich, and made my groin twitch.

“I am, Travis. But the production company will pay more money if you wear the Speedo—plus, your female fans will be thoroughly impressed.” She pinched each end of a tiny, bright red men’s bikini, stretched it out, and wiggled from side to side with it.

She was taunting me. And despite my horror, I liked it.

Everything stopped, and I fixated on her face. Those flirty lips were plump, ripe. As were other parts of her, I was betting. Things I shouldn’t think about, especially not now and not about her.

She was better than that.

I shouldn’t have hired such a sexy assistant. I’d have been better off with a doting grandma type. A maternal old lady that folded clothes. Definitely not a woman I’d fantasize about wearing one of my jerseys and nothing else.

“Being objectified for cash feels wrong.”

The disdain that dripped from her sizzled all around us. “And yet men have been doing it to women for decades.”

“Fair point. But I’m an athlete, not a model. Hell, I’m covered in ink—not exactly Speedo material there.” I leaned back on the couch. Arguing with her was fun, even if I was going to lose. I’d film for Shark Week, if nothing more than to out-Speedo Gronkowski.

Moriah snorted. “I think the ink is part of the appeal. Women love it—nothing screams bad boy like tattoos.”

She turned away, but not before something like to embarrassment flashed in her eyes and darkened her cheeks.

God, I wanted to make her blush like that when she was naked under me. “You like inked up guys, Mariposa?’ I sure the hell hoped so.

About the Author:

Candi Scott is the spicy contemporary pen name for award winning author of Two Hearts, One Stone and the Arkadia Fast Series, Leslie Scott. She has been writing stories for as long as she can remember. The happier the ending, the better. Currently, she lives and writes amidst her own happily ever after with her soul mate, son, and domestic zoo.

Author Rachel Dacus: Return To Lerici

 

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Rachel Dacus will be awarding a $15 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

A suspenseful, uplifting story of second chances, family bonds, and redemption.

Sisters Elinor and Saffron rarely see eye-to-eye, but they agree that an unknown half-brother appearing in their lives can only spell trouble. The Greene sisters want to support their ailing mother, Betsy, as they gather in their cottage in Lerici, Italy. But they don’t want Betsy to keep searching for Baby Boy, the only name they have on faded adoption papers.

While the Greenes debate, Baby Boy finds them. A rough childhood has led Daniel to a life as a thief. When he learns of his connection to the wealthy Greenes, he decides to scam them. He goes to Italy and using a fake identity observes them at close range. Watching these people makes him ache for what he never had—a loving family.

Betsy is touched by the young man’s story and guesses their hidden connection. Discovering his true identity, she asks the family to help him. But Daniel’s shady past is catching up and putting the Greenes at risk. Should they bring their lost lamb into the fold—and can he claim his heritage if it endangers his family?

Read an Excerpt:

Robert sang a few words. “How about this?”

“I don’t know it, but it sounds good.”

“It’s my own. I wrote it.”

He began to strum, accompanying his soft voice, and Betsy had another jolt of recognition. It was the voice. There was so much of a similarity in the timbre that it made her ache. She wondered what Elinor would think if she came in while he was singing and heard Nathan’s singing voice coming out of this young man.

The song soothed her every aching muscle and bone. It did her body good and her nerves too. Like a fond memory, it wrapped her in the sensation that life was good and harmonious, that there was honey in every breeze and heaven just around the corner. He had a gift, this fellow. He definitely had talent. So how had he wound up tinkering with plumbing in Lerici? Maybe her intuition was true, and he had come for them.

Betsy lay back as he sang, her arm across her eyes, and thought of days past when musicians sang just for her, and she went home with one of them. Days long before Nathan and his stuffy circle of academics. The music was pulling her back to a time when she could relax and be herself, and her stuffy daughter didn’t criticize her every impulse and comment. She understood that Elinor felt criticized by her; what Elinor didn’t realize is that she’d adopted Betsy’s habit of sharp comments. And somewhere—God knew where—she’d picked up that skepticism that was going to burn her sweetheart down, if she didn’t marry the wonderful Tonio soon.

Robert strummed a last chord, his voice fading into the silence.

She sat up and looked at him. They stared at each other for a moment.

“You remind me of someone,” she murmured. “My ex-husband, Nathan.”

Why didn’t Robert look surprised?

About the Author

Rachel Dacus is the author of six novels, four time travel books in the Timegathering Series and two books of women’s fiction. She has also published four poetry collections. Rachel’s work has appeared widely in print and online, in journal that include Boulevard, Gargoyle, and Prairie Schooner. Her poetry is in the anthologies Fire and Rain: Ecopoetry of California and Radiant DisUnities: Real Ghazals in English. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Website: http://www.racheldacus.net

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

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/racheldacusauthor

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Return-Lerici-heartwarming-siblings-Invisibles-ebook/dp/B0CBY5PQSH/ref=sr_1_1

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Author Norm Meech: The World Council

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Norm Meech will be awarding a $10 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Ricky Montgomery had just graduated high school in June 1976 and was enjoying life as an 18-year-old teenager. He was hired by the Dawson City Police Force, and after graduating from police college he was assigned to work as an undercover operative in a motorcycle gang.

Ricky, although happy, was struggling living his double life as a cop and biker. Then it happened: during a biker war, Ricky’s life was saved by agents from the World Council (TWC). TWC was created by the world’s leaders to prevent manmade disasters from happening and to liaise with aliens who have been monitoring mankind for hundreds of years. TWC’s mandate, with the assistance of aliens, is to ensure mankind’s continued existence.

TWC is a highly secretive organization, whose agents have the ability to travel through time, to change history, and to take lives to save lives. Ricky becomes a TWC agent and discovers that TWC’s command staff is making unethical decisions, hiding secrets about aliens and trying to reduce the world’s population through biological warfare. Ricky teams up with other agents and tries to save mankind and the world from disaster.

Read an Excerpt

Just as I turned and looked outside, the van’s side door slid open and two masked men with guns opened fire. I yelled to everyone, to get down as I hit the floor. There were shards of broken glass and bullets flying everywhere.

Although the barrage of gunfire only lasted a few minutes, it seemed a lot longer, like time had slowed down. One of the Devils who was packing a gun was able to return fire and the van disappeared as quickly as it had appeared. I looked around and most of the people were starting to get up off the floor. All except for a couple.

Then I realized that Vicky was still on the ground and there was blood pooling beside her. My God, she had been shot! I yelled for someone to call an ambulance and to get me some towels. I got the towels and applied pressure to her midsection. I looked around for help but there wasn’t any. The other waitresses were helping one of the Devil’s members and another waitress who had also been shot. Hammer and the other guys took off knowing that the cops would be showing up soon.

Sure enough, in a matter of minutes ambulances and a ton of cops arrived at the bar. The ambulance attendants started working on Vicky and the cops pushed me off to the side, telling me to stay back, let them do their job. Obviously none of the cops or ambulance people knew we were undercover. I was judged to be a low life biker and my “old lady”, a waitress, was also judged to be the lower part of society. They allowed me to ride in the ambulance with Vicky, only after I gave some uniform cop our names and addresses. They worked on Vicky all the way to the hospital and they told me that she was in critical condition when they wheeled her into surgery.

It suddenly hit me like a truck. It did not matter who I was, a biker or a cop. We are all humans and Vicky did not deserve this. She was only 23 years old and she was a beautiful person. I knew she understood the risks of being a cop, especially an undercover cop, but she was harmless. She had stepped up to the plate, she had warned me, she had my back. Besides saving me, she probably had saved a lot of other people in that bar. I was so emotional and confused; I was holding back tears and I was so full of anger I did not know what to do. Who could I call? It could not get out that she was a cop! I called Christine to tell her what had happened.

About the Author: Norm Meech has been retired for nearly two years, capping a distinguished forty-four-year career in policing. He fondly recalls the camaraderie of work friends forged during his tenure and the unique experiences as a police officer.

While missing aspects of his former profession, Norm keeps himself engaged by maintaining fitness and pursuing various hobbies. Additionally, he channels his creativity into writing, aiming to produce a book annually. His latest work delves into science fiction, inviting readers to ponder questions about the existence of aliens, unidentified flying objects, government involvement in secret conspiracies, the potential for time travel, and the impact of human activities on the planet. Norm hopes readers enjoy the fictional stories he crafts, sparking contemplation and curiosity.

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