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One apartment. One fake boyfriend. One agreement waiting to be broken.
One apartment. One fake boyfriend. One agreement waiting to be broken.
Makayla: I’m tired of my dad playing matchmaker. As a music teacher juggling life with sickle cell disease, I don’t have time—or energy—for forced dinner dates with “eligible men.” So, I come up with a plan: find a fake boyfriend, let him move in, and make it believable. Daniel was never supposed to say yes. He’s a grumpy, emotionally walled-off lawyer who hates chaos and clings to solitude. But now he’s in my apartment—tall, brooding, infuriatingly neat—and fitting into my world way too easily. I don’t believe in love. Not when life has taught me it rarely sticks around. But something about him feels dangerously real.
Daniel: Something about her captured my attention the moment I met her. I knew I was in trouble. Controlled and always alone—that’s who I’ve been. But I said yes before I could stop myself. Because moving into her tea-scented, music-filled home was the only way I could be close to her. She’s sunshine and sharp edges. She hums while stirring honey into her cup and smiles through pain like it’s nothing. This was supposed to be pretend. But with every stolen glance and late-night conversation, the line between real and fake keeps slipping. She doesn’t believe in love. I never thought it was possible. But living with her is rewriting everything I thought I knew— And walking away might not be an option.
A. Akinosho lives in her own little nest in Illinois. An avid reader and enjoy reading thrillers, suspense and romance novels (partial to romance genre). When, She’s not reading or keeping up with life. She enjoys writing and creating twist to stories. She loves writing about diverse characters, friendship and overcoming challenges through, what is perceived as a weakness.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
This Samhain, awaken the legend. Confront the darkness.
The Empire Falls. A Witch Rises. Humanity’s Last Hope.
What if the world’s salvation depended on the rebirth of its most feared woman?
Award-winning author Michaela Riley delivers a groundbreaking saga with The Witch’s Rebirth Series, beginning with the electrifying Labyrinth of Shadows: The Witch’s Rebirth Part I.
Born on Samhain, under the ominous shroud of an eclipse, Merona’s destiny is a spell woven through centuries. As the mighty Western Roman Empire crumbles into dust and a new king rises amidst the ashes, an ancient prophecy demands her awakening. This is no mere historical reimagining; it is a cosmic tension, an eerie beauty where history and myth conspire to ignite a forgotten power.
Forget the villains of myth. In this epic tale, the world’s salvation rests on the shoulders of its most feared woman. Merona’s rebirth isn’t just a beginning; it’s the genesis of humanity’s last hope. Journey with her through a labyrinth of shadows, where destiny, reclamation, and the profound cost of becoming who you were always meant to be collide.
Labyrinth of Shadows: The Witch’s Rebirth Part I doesn’t just sound epic—it feels like a spell cast across time. Prepare for a story that flips archetypes, raises the stakes to unimaginable heights, and will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about fate and fear.
The Witch’s Rebirth Series by Award-Winning Author Michaela Riley. Her rebirth begins. The world will never be the same.
This Samhain, the veil thins, and a legend awakens.
Michaela Riley, the award-winning storyteller whose words have captivated readers, invites you on a journey back to a time when magic thrummed in the very soil and darkness lurked at the edges of the known world. Step into The Witch’s Rebirth Series, a saga that begins not with a whisper, but with a shattering revelation on the most sacred night of the year.
The year is 540 A.D. The air in Gaul is thick with an unspoken dread, a chilling premonition spreading like wildfire from the East. For nearly three decades, a name whispered with fear, a figure known only as The Witch, has remained a phantom, a recluse safeguarding truths too powerful to be spoken. Merona, the woman behind the myth, has lived a life of quiet vigilance, her existence a shield against a nameless terror.
But the shadows are lengthening. An ancient, lurking darkness, a force older than empires and more insidious than plague, has begun to stir. This is not a foe that wields steel; it is a corruption that feasts on despair, a creeping night threatening to extinguish the last embers of humanity. And Merona, the reclusive witch, is no longer hidden. She is drawn from her sanctuary, her slumbering power ignited by an imperative she cannot ignore.
Her mission is immense, her burden profound. Merona is the solitary guardian of the Cauldron of Dagda, an artifact of immense power, a beacon of hope in a world teetering on the precipice of eternal night. Humanity’s fate rests not on armies, but on the whispered incantations and fierce determination of one woman.
Beside her, though the odds are stacked against them, stand those who have pledged their unwavering loyalty. Murdach, Morrigan, and Mairead. Their faces, etched with the weariness of countless battles against the encroaching darkness, mirror the grim resolve in Merona’s own eyes. Her voice, though carrying the weight of prophecy and the echo of a fragile world, is not one of despair, but of a fierce, unwavering commitment.
The Witch’s Rebirth Series is more than a story; it is an immersion into a visceral world where pagan lore collides with cataclysmic threats. It is a testament to the power of resilience, the strength of chosen family, and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to stand against the tide of oblivion.
Prepare to be spellbound. Prepare to witness the impossible. Prepare for The Witch’s Rebirth Series by Michaela Riley.
She was reborn on Samhain. And that was only the beginning.
From the award-winning imagination of Michaela Riley comes a sweeping saga where ancient myth bleeds into brutal history, and humanity’s fate rests on the shoulders of one formidable woman. Welcome to THE WITCH’S REBIRTH SERIES.
In the shadowed year of 544 AD, the ancient Gaul town of Septimania lies scarred, but not broken. A devastating plague had gripped its very soul, until the Witch, through powerful, arcane deeds, began to loosen its deadly hold. Now, as the sacred eve of Samhain approaches, the air hums with the promise of roaring bonfires, desperate festivity, and a fragile new dawn.
But beneath the surface of celebration, an unsettling truth stirs: an ancient darkness, long thought defeated, is awakening once more. This menacing, primeval force threatens to extinguish the fragile light of renewal, to plunge Septimania, and indeed all humanity, into an eternal night.
With the raven’s call echoing through the labyrinth’s core, the Witch emerges, reborn and wielding the legendary Cauldron of Dagda and the mighty Spear of Lugh. She is poised for one final, desperate battle. To preserve humanity, she must summon the enigmatic, divine strength of the Gods – the awe-inspiring might of the Tuatha De Danann. For in this coming conflict, so cataclysmic are the stakes, there will be no victor left standing unless the ancient powers heed her plea.
Will the Witch’s rebirth be humanity’s salvation, or its final, desperate gasp?
Dive into THE WITCH’S REBIRTH SERIES by Award-Winning Author Michaela Riley and witness the epic struggle for survival where myth is made, and legends are forged in fire and blood.
Your journey into ancient magic and desperate heroism begins on Samhain.
Michaela Riley: Where Virginia Trails Meet Ancestral Magic
From the front lines of critical care to the enchanting worlds of fiction, Michaela Riley, a retired Army Critical Care Nurse with a Masters in Nursing Education, is the award-winning author behind “The Witch’s Rebirth” series.
Nestled in Virginia, Michaela shares her life with her husband and a distinctive duo of canine muses: Morrigan, a majestic red German Shepherd, and Carlos, a spirited Chihuahua-terrier. Her inspiration roots deep in the local mountains and forests, where each hike is a pilgrimage that connects her to ancestral whispers. These profound journeys directly fuel her captivating stories, weaving together magic, history, and the transformative power of self-discovery.
Through evocative prose, Michaela invites readers to explore their own heritage and embrace the extraordinary magic found in uncovering one’s deepest truths.
Signed hardcover copies of the trilogy + custom book marks + candles (3 winners, US only)$20 Amazon or Paypal (1 winner, US only). Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
What inspired the storyline of your latest book?
The Witch’s Rebirth series bloomed from a deep connection with the natural world, cultivated through countless hours spent hiking and truly observing the subtle nuances of the landscape. This immersive experience sparked a fascination with the hidden stories whispered by the earth itself, forming the bedrock of the series’ atmosphere and themes. Further inspiration arose from a personal connection to the past: research into family lineage unearthed intriguing accounts of ancestors accused of witchcraft, adding a layer of personal resonance and prompting a deeper exploration of the historical context surrounding these accusations. To ground the fantastical elements, the historical timeline of the series relies heavily on meticulous research and a long-standing fascination with old France and its rich, often enigmatic relationship with magic.
What advice would you give to aspiring authors?
The best advice for aspiring authors boils down to this: first and foremost, write the story that burns within you. Don’t get bogged down in market trends or perceived expectations before you’ve even put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). Cultivate unshakable faith in your abilities and your unique perspective. Remember that the publishing landscape is vast and ever-evolving, offering more avenues than ever before for your work to find its audience. As you navigate this journey, don’t shy away from advocating for your vision; your voice and your story matter. Most importantly, brace yourself for the inevitable challenges and rejections, and never, ever give up on your dream of becoming a published author.
Tell me something about yourself
As a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and daughter, family is clearly at the heart of who I am. My experiences are further shaped by my service as a retired Major, Army Reserve Nurse Corp, a role that undoubtedly instilled discipline and resilience. Now, with more time to pursue passions, I find joy in the companionship of my beloved pets, Morrigan, my German Shepherd who remarkably inspired a character in my books, and Carlos Santana, my charming chihuahua terrier mix. My adventurous spirit leads me on hikes and travels around the world, always eager to explore new places and cultures. This passion extends to delving into my lineage and uncovering historical details, providing rich inspiration for my writing. It’s surprising to me that I’ve embraced the dark fantasy genre, but I’m thoroughly enjoying it, and dedicated to continuing the Witch’s Rebirth Series with the upcoming sequel series, Guardians of the Veil.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
Sweet heat. Sharp skates. One perfect shot at forever.
Sweet heat. Sharp skates. One perfect shot at forever.
Brian Anderson has always been the good guy—center for the Los Angeles Quakes, team peacemaker, and top scorer. He’s watched his teammates fall in love one by one, but he’s stayed far from the line of fire—until a fierce left winger blindsides him in a no-holds-barred charity game. Alexis Barlowe doesn’t care about NHL fame. She’s too busy raising her daughter and guarding her heart after one betrayal too many.
Brian is determined in his pursuit, and Alexis eventually lets him in. He’s everything Peter, her ex, wasn’t—kind, dependable, crazy about her and her daughter. But when a woman from Brian’s past shows up five months pregnant and claiming he’s the father, Alexis’s walls come crashing back down.
The test says the baby is his. But Brian swears it’s not true. As secrets unravel and old wounds reopen, both must decide if love is worth the risk—or if their happily ever after is just another story cut short.
Brian: Hockey Romance He Falls First, Insta Love Single Mom Secret Daughter She Plays Hockey Insta Family Confirmed Bachelor She Doesn’t Believe In Love Perennial Good Guy
Alisa Jean is the pseudonym for award-winning authors Marla A. White and C J Bahr. They first teamed up over thirty years ago over a bottle of Zima (don’t ask) while polishing their gear for a horse show. They’ve since moved on to better beverages and writing novels. Separately, Marla prefers to murder characters in the usual way, while C J uses paranormal means. The long-time best friends joined together as a writing team through their mutual love of hockey. Wonder twin powers activated! Their hockey romances examine flawed characters with heart, humor, and sexy sizzle.
Would you like a chance to win a$20 Amazon or PayPalGift Card?Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
Forbidden passion ignites between a duty-bound gargoyle and an amnesiac wielding fire—their love could save the realms, or burn them to ash.
Sebastian was a gargoyle warrior bound by duty to rescue his kin. Aurora was a red-haired enigma found unconscious by a river’s edge, her past a blank slate. From the moment their eyes met, a primal connection ignited, a forbidden flame that defied his stoic nature. Amnesia stole Aurora’s memories, but not the searing heat that pulsed between them, nor the strange, untamed fire that flickered at her fingertips. As their perilous journey deepened, so did their passion, a dangerous dance between duty and desire.
Aurora’s forgotten past hides a dangerous truth: she’s an immortal, a vessel of immense power, tied to a crystal born from dying stars. Her abilities could save or destroy the realms, a fate she doesn’t understand. Their love is forbidden by duty, yet their bond becomes a battleground. Monsters, collapsing worlds, and ancient prophecies converge. He must choose: love the woman who might save creation, or accept she’s destined to destroy it.Can their forbidden love withstand the weight of destiny, or will their fated bond shatter amidst the chaos?
In the shadows of captivity, love ignites in the battle for freedom.
Lyssa, a captive of a fearsome dragon, finds herself trapped in a labyrinth of stone, shadows, and secrets. Her only solace comes from the mysterious Zodiark, a rogue who whispers of freedom and sparks a forbidden passion.
As she delves deeper into the dragon’s lair, Lyssa must navigate a dangerous path filled with ancient magic, desire, and a struggle for power. Can she break free from the chains of captivity and embrace her destiny? Immerse yourself in a seductive tale of passion and obsession, where the line between predator and prey is perilously thin.
A heroine’s daring escape ignites a dangerous journey as trust and destiny clash.
Imprisoned by ruthless monsters, Sage’s world shatters when her mother is brutally slain before her eyes. Feeling abandoned by the Moon goddess and the male gargoyles who failed to rescue them, Sage takes matters into her own hands and stages a daring escape.
Daxos, driven by an unrelenting need to find his destined partner, embarks on a perilous quest. When he finally scents her presence, his deepest dreams become reality—but their encounter is far from joyous.
Scarred and disillusioned, Sage rebuffs him, though reluctantly accepts his help to navigate treacherous terrain back to safety. As their grueling journey unfolds, they face numerous dangers: hostile creatures, treacherous landscapes, and the threat of capture. Daxos must find a way to mend Sage’s broken trust while she grapples with her conflicted heart.
The scars of betrayal and trauma test their fated bond. In a world where hope flickers like a dying ember, will love be enough to light their way home?
Ana is enjoying the tranquility of her porch one evening when a portal drags her away. Unwittingly thrust into Xylos, a dimension teetering on the edge of chaos, She’s taken to Leonad, a kingdom on the edge of war, where she is both a stranger and the key to the realm’s survival.
Magic warps her body, making her an impossibly rare and coveted female gargoyle. She stands at a crossroads, torn between the pull of returning home and the allure of this unknown land. Among the new beings she meets is Quinn, a captivating gargoyle prince with eyes that beckon while hiding secrets. Quinn declares that she is his destined mate and urges her to accept his mark.
As Ana navigates the complex politics of her new home, she discovers her arrival was no accident. While Ana battles fearsome monsters and fends off a legion of suitors, her connection with Quinn deepens, stirring a passion that defies explanation.
Yet, beneath the looming shadow of a usurper, Leonard teeters on the brink of ruin. She must choose to save the kingdom and her budding romance with Quinn.
Join Ana on her quest as she confronts her destiny, battles for her freedom, and decides the fate of two worlds. Will she return to her past home, or will love and duty forge a new path she never dared to dream?
In a celestial struggle, love becomes the ultimate wild card.
When Fionnlaith, the radiant moon goddess, and Alawn, the god of balance, first met, their love ignited fiercely. Yet destiny had other plans.
As the Celestial Council rises, demanding all deities bow to its authority, an epic tale of love, defiance, and sacrifice unfolds. Fionnlaith’s serene realm, guarded by devoted gargoyles, faces encroaching shadows. When monstrous entities ignite a war, she defies the Council to protect her creations, paying a devastating price.
Stripped of her guardians, Fionnlaith uncovers the Council’s betrayal. Now, she must navigate celestial politics, her conflicted heart, and the brutal reality of war.
Can her love for Alawn reignite their flame and save their kingdom?
Nicole LaBrocca ventures into enchanting new territories with her spellbinding tales of romantic fantasy. She invites readers on an exhilarating odyssey through a realm where steamy passion intertwines with suspenseful supernatural intrigue, all seasoned with a sprinkle of humor. Be prepared for an immersive journey where love ignites amidst swirling mysteries and hidden truths. Step into a world where every page holds the promise of an unforgettable escape.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
Cozy up this season with the newest Pinegrove FD Romance book!
Everyone wants to hear those three little words during the holidays…
Where’s the casserole?!
Winnie Kerr wants to utter another three-word phrase to her girlfriend, but Thanksgiving has other plans. After spending far too much time on work, this legal eagle decides an impromptu road trip to visit her sister is the perfect time to tell her girlfriend she loves her. What could go wrong during a few days away from work, right?
Mari Balogh has a problem, she’s madly in love with her girlfriend and cannot get those three little words off her tongue. After being burned before from her unsupportive family and a string of bad breakups, this paralegal is guarded. She happily agrees on a road trip to Pinegrove, eager for the space to profess her affections. How hard can it be, right?
From a little trespassing and a kitchen nightmare to a surly cat and a series of misunderstandings, the road to I love you is rife with hiccups. Can these two find their way to happily ever after? Or will their relationship go up in a puff of sweet potato casserole scented smoke?
But Pinegrove has proven that love is never overruled!
Return to small-town Pinegrove, Georgia, the romantic setting of Libby Kay’s endearing novels, When Sparks Fly and Old Flames, as well as the 2026 novel about another of the hunky firemen in town. Don’t miss any of the action or romance!
Libby Kay lives in the city in the heart of the Midwest with her husband. When she’s not writing, Libby loves reading romance novels of any kind. Stories of people falling in love nourish her soul. Contemporary or Regency, sweet or hot, as long as there is a happily ever after—she’s in love!
When not surrounded by books, Libby can be found baking in her kitchen, binging true crime shows, or on the road with her husband, traveling as far as their bank account will allow.
Libby cohosts the Romance Roundup podcast with Liz Donatelli where they recommend romance books and interview authors, influencers, and publishers. Check it out for your weekly dose of romance!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
Three cowboys. Three Christmases. One small town where love always finds a home.
Genre: Sweet Contemporary Small-Town Western Romance
🎄A heartfelt cowboy Christmas romance about second chances, small-town healing, and the power of love.🎄
He left her behind once. This Christmas, will love bring him home for good?
After six long years, two military deployments, and a grueling recovery from an IED blast, Zachary Caldwell is finally home in Morning Glory, Wyoming, and the Flying D Ranch. He never thought he’d see the snow-covered streets of his hometown again… or the woman whose heart he broke with nothing more than a phone call.
Julia Grant has spent years rebuilding her life. She finds comfort in her job as a nurse at Mercy Clinic, the cozy routines of the Morning Glory Inn, and the stability of her small town. But when Zach walks through her door just weeks before Christmas, old memories and deeper feelings come rushing back.
She once dreamed of a future with him. Marriage. Family. A love that stays.
But dreams don’t always survive war, distance, and silence.
As Zach confronts the truth about his past, including the reason his parents abandoned him, Julia must decide if she’s willing to risk her heart a second time. Can she believe in him again when he’s still learning how to believe in himself?
Set against a backdrop of twinkling lights, blizzards, and heartwarming holiday traditions, The Cowboy’s Christmas Blessing is a clean, wholesome contemporary western romance about healing, forgiveness, and finding your way back to the one who never left your heart.
🎄A heartfelt later in life cowboy Christmas romance about second chances, small-town healing, and the power of love.🎄
Clean and wholesome contemporary western romance.
The Snowstorm Was Just the Beginning
Victoria Palmer hadn’t expected to spend Christmas in a town so small it barely made her GPS. But after a painful divorce and the betrayal of a husband now living with someone half her age, her twin sons insisted she escape the glitz of Beverly Hills for the snowy calm of Morning Glory, Wyoming. One snowstorm, two missed turns, and a very arrogant cowboy later, Victoria settles herself at the Morning Glory Inn—cold, flustered, and anything but merry.
Gabe Dupree never expected a spoiled city woman to march into his family’s inn, insult his hospitality, and throw his quiet December into disarray. A widower devoted to his daughter and his ranch, Gabe made peace with solitude years ago. But Victoria’s arrival brings disruption—and a spark he never thought he’d feel again.
As snow blankets the Wyoming landscape and the town gears up for its Christmas festivities, Victoria and Gabe are forced into each other’s paths more often than either prefers. Between tense encounters and accidental heart-to-hearts, they begin to uncover the hurt and longing hidden beneath their defenses.
Sometimes love doesn’t come wrapped in ribbons. Sometimes, it rides in on a snowstorm.
Neither are in Morning Glory looking for love, but sometimes the best gifts come when you least expect them—wrapped not in ribbons, but in second chances.
The Cowboy’s Christmas Gift is Book 2 in the Morning Glory Christmas series—a sweet, later in life, contemporary western romance full of holiday charm, second chances, and heartfelt family moments. Perfect for readers who love small-town Christmas romance, slow-burn love stories, and strong, swoon-worthy cowboys. Guaranteed HEA.
🎄A heartfelt cowboy Christmas romance about small-town healing and the power of love.🎄
Snowstorms, Secrets… and an Unexpected Family Christmas
Ethan Webster thought he had everything figured out—thriving career in Denver, a sleek loft, and weekends on the ski slopes. But one phone call from Italy changes everything. His sister and brother-in-law are gone, and their three young children need him now more than ever. Leaving the city behind, Ethan returns to Morning Glory, Wyoming—a snowy, small-town haven tucked into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
Back in the hometown he never thought he’d live in again, Ethan leans on the one person he’s always trusted. Makayla Dupree. A dedicated veterinarian and lifelong friend, Makayla once taught him to ride horses and stood up for him when no one else would. This Christmas, she’s standing by him once again… this time to support him through his grief.
As the town sparkles with Christmas lights and the scent of pine fills the air, Ethan finds comfort in Makayla’s quiet strength, and sees her in a way he never did before. Their bond has always been strong, but grief, responsibility, and the magic of the season spark something deeper. Something that looks a lot like love.
But navigating newfound feelings and unexpected responsibilities isn’t easy. With the children still mourning, and Ethan unsure about his future, will the season of miracles bring them together—or pull them apart?
The Cowboy’s Christmas Surprise is a clean and wholesome Christmas romance filled with heartfelt family moments, small-town charm, slow-burning love, and the promise of a surprise love. Perfect for fans of cowboy heroes, emotional reunions, and uplifting holiday reads. It is book three in the Morning Glory Christmas series and features a guaranteed happy ending.
Shirleen Davies believes love stories are best served with a dash of grit, a few stumbles, and a whole lot of heart.
She writes contemporary and historical romance about everyday folks who don’t always get it right the first time, but keep trying anyway. Raised near the sunny coast of Southern California, Shirleen spent her childhood bouncing between the beach and her grandparents’ farm, where she learned that nothing beats the smell of fresh hay or the quiet wisdom of a rocking chair on a porch.
Armed with degrees from San Diego State University and the University of Maryland (plus an unofficial PhD in people-watching and life experience), she crafts emotionally rich stories filled with flawed, stubborn, hopeful characters who discover love where they least expect it.
When she’s not writing about cowboys, deputies, or the women strong enough to tame them, Shirleen enjoys life in a picturesque northern Arizona town with her husband. She’s the proud mom of two grown sons, still believes in happy endings, and is convinced that redemption is just one good story away.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
The Sacred Band of Thebes lives on, a world away, in this mythic epic of love in war in ancient times.
In 338 BCE, during the Battle of Chaeronea that results in the massacre of the Sacred Band of Thebes, Tempus and his Stepson cavalry rescue twenty three pairs of Theban Sacred Banders, paired brothers and lovers, to fight on other days. These forty-six Thebans, whose bones will never lie in the mass grave that holds their two hundred and fifty-four brothers, join with the immortalized Tempus and his Sacred Band of Stepsons, consummate ancient cavalry fighters, to make new lives in a faraway land and fight the battle of their dreams where gods walk the earth, ghosts take the field, and the angry Fates demand their due.
Best selling author Janet Morris began writing in 1976 and published more than 30 novels, many co-authored with her husband Chris Morris or others. Most of her fiction work was in the fantasy and science fiction genres, although she also wrote historical and other novels. Morris either wrote, contributed to, or edited several book-length works of non-fiction, as well as papers and articles on nonlethal weapons, developmental military technology and other defense and national security topics.
Christopher Crosby Morris (born 1946) is an American author of fiction and non-fiction, as well as a lyricist, musical composer, and singer-songwriter. He is married to author Janet Morris. He is a defense policy and strategy analyst and a principal in M2 Technologies, Inc. He writes primarily as Chris Morris, but occasionally uses pseudonyms.
You could win your choice of print or eBook copy of The Sacred Band, $20 Amazon or PayPal gift card? – 1 winner each!Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
What is something unique/quirky about you?
We breed Morgan horses. We consult with Morgan breeders to help them choose breeding combinations to achieve a desired result.
We are also song writers; Janet plays bass guitar and Chris sings and plays guitar. We have an album on MCA records. Look for Christopher Crosby Morris on Soundcloud or N1M.com
Can you, for those who don’t know you already, tell something about yourself and how you became an author?
Janet wrote her first book in 1975 and Chris was the first one to read and comment on it. Their marriage survived. A routine emerged where Chris would read aloud all the new drafts and we would make edits on the spot. After a few books Chris’ ideas became frequent enough that we agreed he should have credit for writing, whereas before we had kept separate Janet’s storytelling and Chris’ songwriting. The rest, as they say is history.
Who is your hero and why?
Heraclitus of Ephesus, a pre-socratic philosopher, whose Cosmic Fragments foreshadow our knowledge of reality and how to perceive it. Among his precepts is the statement that change alone is unchanging. We’ve worked Heraclitus’ fragments in here and there throughout our books.
Which of your novels can you imagine being made into a movie?
All of them. We write cinematically, our books are vivid adventures undertaken without knowing the destination. I, the Sun, The Sacred Band, Outpassage and M.E.D.U.S.A.are particularly suited to film. The Threshold Series is a feast of opportunities for today’s special effects creators.
What inspired you, to write The Sacred Band?
We love horses, history and philosophy, so why not an ancient cavalry unit made up of paired fighters led by a centuries-old warrior sage with a god in his head? Tempus and his Sacred Band of Stepsons are made from their moment which stretches across all of recorded history.
Who designed your book covers?
Most of our covers, including The Sacred Band are realized by Roy Mauritsen, a gifted graphic artist.
Advice to writers?
As for advice to writers, here is all we know: write the story you want to read. Start at the beginning, go to the end, and stop. Seriously. From start to finish you must inhabit the construct in a manner that makes the reader choose to continue; if you, as the writer, can’t feel what it’s like being there, your readers can’t either. So close your eyes, look at your feet where they are standing on the story’s ground; tell me what you see. Tell me what you hear. Ask at the end of each paragraph ‘what happens next?’. If you lose touch with it, wait until you’re back inside it. Tell the story that comes to you, and from you, to me.
Don’t miss the rest of the Sacred Band Series!
The Sacred Band of Stepsons series is Homeric and heroic fiction following the exploits of an ancient cavalry unit modeled on the Sacred Band of Thebes. Deftly mixing history, myth, and fantasy, Morris’ Sacred Band of Stepsons live and die in a world where gods are real and magic works — sometimes.
Morris’ accursed cavalry commander, Tempus, first appeared Sacred Band first appeared in the million-selling Thieves’ world shared-universe in 1981. Subsequently, Janet Morris, first alone and subsequently with her husband Chris Morris, take the Sacred Band into their own series of novels, set in the fourth century BCE. Passionate, gritty, lyrical prose and unforgettable characters make this series. Perseid Press Sacred Band novels includes the “Author’s Cut” of the Beyond Sanctuary Trilogy and Tempus, as well as the epic novel The Sacred Band, and The Fish the Fighters and the Song-girl.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
The Hawthorne University Witch Prequel Series Book 3
by A.L. Hawke
Genre: Dark Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Romantasy
Burn the Witch.
Allie and I were meant to have a future together—one built on love, not fear. But here in Hawthorne, shadows lengthen, and whispers drift through the woods like curses. So when Alondra falls mysteriously ill, I know exactly who’s behind it.
Desperation drags me into the darkest corners of my magic—places where I no longer fear the spells I once vowed never to cast. Even joining a coven of the wicked no longer feels like betrayal. The deeper I descend, the more I uncover about the witch who haunts me… and the shadow that may not belong to her alone.
Walpurgis Night approaches—the night witches burn. But what happens when it’s the warlock who strikes the match… willing to burn everything—my heart, my soul—to save the one I love?
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The Hawthorne University Witch Prequel Series Book 2
Cursed the moment I fell in love with her.
While home in Raleigh for semester break, I didn’t expect my girlfriend, Alondra, to ask me for a favor: present my Book of Shadows to the leader of a satanic cult. She was looking for a new male witch for her coven. Of course, she knew it wouldn’t be me.
But when a curse took hold of our college campus—and the spirits I thought I’d left behind came back—I realized I couldn’t keep the book closed much longer.
Now something dark surrounds me. Is it the work of the wizard with the devilish goatee? Or is it a little girl possessed by something far worse?
I lit a dark shadow, and now I feel only confusion. Whatever this darkness is, it’s coming for Alondra, our family, and every witch in Hawthorne.
The Hawthorne University Witch Prequel Series Book 1
I fell in love with a goth, but she’s a witch.
Starting school at Hawthorne University was not going well, until I met my classmate Alondra. Allie was different. She was goth. But she was also mysterious, confident and fun. I was into that. My name’s Liam. My friends call me Lee.
Things got weird after I accompanied her to her haunts. Poltergeists and demons attacked little girls. I watched Alondra help exorcise these ghosts, but some of their evil stuck to me.
Well, being attracted to a witch was one thing; dating one was quite another. It seemed the closer I got to Allie, the more her witchcraft endangered my friends. And my soul. You decide. I chronicled everything here in her book.
A.L. Hawke is the author of the bestselling Hawthorne University Witch series. The author lives in Southern California torching the midnight candle over lovers against a backdrop of machines, nymphs, magic, spice & mayhem.
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What inspired you to write this book?
The characters. When the Hawthorne University series was written, I focused on Cadence Hawthorne. But I’ll never forget a reader telling me that they wanted to learn more about Cadence’s antagonist—her teacher and witch mentor—Alondra. Then I thought of the fun of writing about characters in the 1990s.
So I embarked on creating the book Alondra, the first book in my prequel series. But Alondra always felt unfinished. I mean, there’s no cliffhangers, but I felt like there was so much more between her love relationship with Liam that it necessitated more stories. That made me write Book of Shadow.
In Book of Shadow, I “reversed” the last books of the Hawthorne series. In the last book of that series, Cadence learns to be evil to fight evil. Well, I wanted to see what would happen if Liam became evil in the prequel series. And, more particularly, what would happen if he became an evil witch like his girlfriend Alondra. That’s what Book of Shadow and Walpurgis are about. His and Alondra’s struggle with evil.
Convince us why you feel your book is a must-read.
Aside from it being Halloween 😉 I mean, it’s a witchy dark fantasy romance. And not only is the book about witches, it’s real researched occult magic. For instance, the enemies in Book of Shadow and Walpurgis are a satanic cult based more on Thelema and Crowley magic than Wicca. So it’s interesting to see what happens when practitioners of moon witchcraft fight wizards and cult members practicing “real” magic’k’.
Can you tell us a little bit about the characters in the books?
Alondra is a wicked witch quite sure of herself. Cadence is the opposite in the main series, unsure of herself and humble. Alondra has this same interaction in her romantic relationship to Liam in the prequel books (‘cause Liam is most similar to Cadence). So I think the fun of the series is this interaction between Alondra with Liam and, later, Alondra with Cadence Hawthorne.
What can we expect from you in the future?
Oh, boy… I’m in between projects. It took a lot out of me to spin out these two yarns, Book of Shadow and Walpurgis, in such a short time, so now I’m in a bit of a hiatus. I’m in the beginning stages of four possible projects: a conclusion to my Furies series, a vampire romance, a short story about Enora (another witch from the series), or a mythological story about Medusa in ancient Greece. I’ve always wanted to write a vampire book as a paranormal novelist so I’m probably going in that direction.
Do your characters seem to hijack the story or do you feel like you have the reins?
My characters lead every story. I watch from behind the scenes. Mostly, the whole story is created through their eyes. But there are some scenes that were created from settings. My book Haunting Joy, for instance, about a ghost romance was more created by the Vermont woods as a setting in my head. But even there, there wouldn’t be a story without the whimsical ghost character.
Which of your novels can you imagine made into a movie?
All my contemporary romance books are cinematic. Particularly, the Hawthorne Witch series, including this prequel series, is written in present tense, first-person. I did that to create a more action-packed feel than some of my other novels. I find that perfect for cinema. Truly, I write with images in my mind, so it’s not hard to see those images put up on a silver screen. Trouble, of course, is cost. For now, I’ve settled with a love for creating audiobooks of all the novels and short stories. That’s been a blast, particularly with the amazing talents of my narrators, Alexa Elmy and Preston Geer.
What is your favorite part of this book and why?
For Walpurgis, it’s fire. I don’t want to give away too much, but you can just look at the cover. Fire represents cleansing or burning away. Of course, in ancient times, witches were literally burned at the stake. Well, in Walpurgis, a little girl hunts witches. And she wants to burn them all—and the ones most threatened are the main characters Liam and Alondra.
Do you have any “side stories” about the characters?
The entire series is a prequel to my bestselling Hawthorne University Witch Series. But it takes place twenty years ago, so that we can learn about Cadence’s teacher back when Cadence was a student. The series, now spanning thirteen books, has a ton of side stories and bingeworthy material to enjoy 😉 And you can start with this series or with Broomstick.
What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
I’ve always been fascinated by religious studies. All the studying I did about the occult made these witch projects really interesting. I also loved romance, the push and pull of love between a man fallen head over heels for a witch—but not only a witch, a bad witch. That femme fatale thing was loads of fun to write.
What’s a fun fact or behind-the-scenes tidbit about the book or writing process?
I’ll tell you one. The hallucination or ritual scenes were extremely challenging. It’s all about showing imagery popping up in my imagination—sometimes connected with the plot or something with the occult—other times with no connection at all to anything. Just like in the book Ravens, I shut off all lights and turned off my computer screen, feeling for keys, so that I could try to directly jot down the happenings in my head. You can’t think these scenes. You’ve gotta approach it with disorder to get it right, I think. And I was happy with the result.
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Two high school sweet hearts, one charming small town, and flames of chemistry that are hard to deny…
Best-selling author Libby Kay romances hearts with her sweet stories about family, friends, and love. Fans of Sherryl Woods’ Sweet Magnolias series are finding all the feels with Old Flames, the latest amazing story set in small town America. Don’t miss this enduring sweet romance!
Two high school sweet hearts, one charming small town, and flames of chemistry that are hard to deny…
Jessie “JJ” Mays has seen it all. Her job in the Peace Corps has put the world at her feet, with adventure calling with every new assignment. Yet after a decade of traveling, she’s become a little lonely—and unable to get over her first love. Soon an emergency phone call from home has her on the next plane, but will her heart survive this visit?
Malcolm “Smithy” Smith loves his smalltown life. His career as a fireman and EMT is fulfilling, his soap opera starlet mother keeps him on his toes, and he’s got a great group of friends. The only thing he doesn’t have—the love of his life by his side. No matter the distractions, he still misses JJ with a fierceness that consumes him.
When a call to a warehouse fire goes from routine to catastrophic, Malcolm is injured and unable to perform the job he loves. The only upside of having a building fall on him? His girl is back in Pinegrove ready to nurse him back to health. And hopefully, this visit is for good…
With some help from the residents of Pinegrove, JJ and Smithy will discover that sometimes, first love burns brightest.
Libby Kay lives in the city in the heart of the Midwest with her husband. When she’s not writing, Libby loves reading romance novels of any kind. Stories of people falling in love nourish her soul. Contemporary or Regency, sweet or hot, as long as there is a happily ever after—she’s in love!
When not surrounded by books, Libby can be found baking in her kitchen, binging true crime shows, or on the road with her husband, traveling as far as their bank account will allow.
Libby cohosts the Romance Roundup podcast with Liz Donatelli where they recommend romance books and interview authors, influencers, and publishers. Check it out for your weekly dose of romance!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
A relentless thriller that explores the unbreakable bonds that transcend time.
‘I could barely put this book down! The twists and turns. The references to current political climate and the unanswered “who dun it” questions kept me engaged until the last page. Great read. Fast paced and an unexpected ending. Kudos for Wendroff’s debut novel!’ – Amazon review
‘I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The story keeps you on the edge of your seat. He is a colorful writer and the characters just come to life. They become very real, and the interplay between them is really intriguing. I highly recommend this book.’ – Amazon review
**Paperback edition just released Oct 7, 2025 – Get it now!**
Michael Wendroff is the author of What Goes Around, a debut thriller published by Bloomsbury, which bestselling author Eric Rickstad calls a “brilliant debut,” and bestselling author Lisa Black says, “starts off at a breakneck pace and doesn’t let up until it reaches its unexpected conclusion.” Plus, #1 bestselling author J.D. Black says, “Relentless and gritty, Wendroff expertly weaves a narrative that begs, ‘just one more page…’”
The book was inspired by what his mother said to him the second he was born: “Oh! How nice to see you–Again!”
Michael has an MBA in marketing from NYU, and was inducted into their Hall of Fame. He is a global marketing consultant. He shares his time between New York City, Sarasota, Florida, and Lake Garda, Italy. He is married and has three wonderful children.
His mother was an editor (watching his mother scribbling in red ink on manuscript pages at home on weekends prepared him for his own editor’s comments!). She remarried a literary agent, so Michael was friendly with many authors, and even spent a vacation with Robert Ludlum. Watching Ludlum hand-write his 450 page novels on yellow legal pads didn’t dissuade Michael from trying to write a novel (though he’s thankful for his PC).
What Goes Around was launched in the USA, UK, and Australia, and foreign language rights have been sold in Italian, Japanese, and Hungarian. The hardcover went through 3 printings, and now the trade paperback is available (along with audio book and e-book).
Fun fact: Michael’s great-grandfather was brought over by Thomas Edison from the University of Copenhagen to work with him. He holds a number of patents, including for plastic buttons. Michael proudly wears button- down shirts whenever he can.
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When did the title “What Goes Around” come to you?
I have to admit that it came from my publisher, not me. My name had been “Perennial.” My publisher came to me and said that for a thriller, they thought they could do better. Now, in my marketing career I would often have ad agencies come in and show me a number of ads and I would normally end up having them make revisions or come back with new ads. I thought the same thing would happen here, but it didn’t. As soon as they suggested What Goes Around, I knew that was it! Not only does it sound like a thriller, but it totally ties into the entire book’s theme. Plus I also think the potential reader that sees the title completes the phrase in their own mind, so I’ve already made a connection with them.
Described as relentless and gritty and about to go into second print…what do you want us to know about the book?
It’s actually now into its third printing, I’m proud to say. It was published in the USA,UK and Australia in hardcover. You can get it at The Island Book shop in Venice. It is also available on Amazon in eBook and audiobooks. I’m amazed how popular audiobooks have become. And to my surprise, my agent sold foreign translation rights in Japanese, Hungarian, and Italian.
You mentioned, “relentless and gritty,” and I was thrilled to see that the author who said that has now made it to #1 on the bestseller list. In fact, JD Barker’s full quote was, “Relentless and gritty, Wendroff weaves a narrative that begs, ‘just one more page…'” And that’s exactly what I wanted to achieve–a page turner that the reader can’t put down.
Promoting the book is a challenge but with an MBA in marketing and your background in the publishing field in a literary agency you may’ve seen what it takes. And now that you’ve achieved a lifelong goal of writing your own book, what’s next?
I always wanted to write a book and it was really the pandmic that got me going-there was that periodof time when you couldn’t do anything, couldn’t even play tennis or go to the beach. So I was out of excuses and went at it. Rightnow, I’m spending a lot of time promoting it. Authors have to realize that today, writing is only 50% of their time, the other 50% is marketing. I’ve done a lot of podcasts, been reviewed by a lot of bloggers (I’m really happy the reviews have been great), and attend a lot of events, including book clubs. The bookclubs sem to really enjoy having a real writer at their meetings, providing insights about the novel as well as the writing and publishing process. In fact, I’d be happy to join any of your readers book clubs (contact me at wendroffm@gmail.com).
My next goal is to write my second book. I’ve plotted it and researched it, so now time to start writing! It will be another thriller and feature the two main characters from What Goes Around, as publishers tend to like series. It’s like building a brand.
What inspires you to write and tell us about your process. Do you write at a certain time, place…You mentioned your office and pool area.I notice you recently enrolled in the Citizens Police Academy in Venice to learn to shoot a taser….what are other things you enjoy researching for your stories. Do you feel it worked for you starting with an outline?
I love writing, and my process is plot, research, write, and edit.
I usually write in the mornings, when I’m freshest, either in my office or at the pool. The water inspires me, that’s another reason Venice is great-beaches, ponds-I don’t even mind the alligators staring at me. I usually sit at my pc to get the story going, and not worry about things like grammer or the specific words, I just want to get the writing flowing. The next morning I will reread what I’d written, and try to make it real writing. Make sure every word fits with the others, make sure each sentence fits with the others. Add the analogies and metaphors. After that’s done, I’ll start scribbling out the next party of the story on my pc, which will be re-written the next day. That process of write then rewrite continues everyday, until I can write my favorite two words: The End
But before I actually start the writing itself, comes the plotting. There are actually two types of writers-plotters and pantsers.Pantsers simply sit in front of their computers and write by the seat of their pants. They have no idea where the story is going. That’s not be. I have to know everything upfront, so after ideating I write a detailed plot outline. I need to know not only what the ending will be, but where I’ll plant the red herrings, and where I’ll put the twists and turns. Nut it’s not like things won’t change. Once I became really attached to one of my characters, and the plot called for the character to die, but I couldn’t do it. I had to change the plot. Another time I did kill off a character I loved, but my wife yelled at me because I was walking around for a week in depression. She said “They’re not real!!.” But to an author, they are real!
The other thing I do before writing is the researching. Sure there’s Google and Chat GPT, but what I found is best is talking to people who do the types of things that are in your book. Living in Venice, I had a lot of resources. I’d come to know FBI agents and police officers and chiefs. And the Venice Police department is great. It was important for my book to talk to a female detective and they put me in touch with one of their own, Courtney Zak. She was great, and a lot of her insights are in the book. The Venice Police Department actually runs a “Citizens Police Academy” where you can learn about all the different facets of the things they do, and I just finished it, which I highly recommend for anyone.
So talking to people for research is critical. Now, I don’t think I spoke to any serial killers…
Anything you want to share about family, kids, upbringing? I like that quote your mother said when you were born, “Nice to see you again.”
My mother was an editor at major New York City publishing firms. I distinctly remember her on a weekend sitting cross-legged on her bed, manuscript pages, strewn about, and red pen in hand writing editorial comments all over the pages. So at least I was prepared for my editor’s comments on my book. They weren’t in red pen, but the comments in the margins of the word document were as instructive. But I wasn’t surprised.
She remarried a literary agent, who had many thriller and mystery writer clients, so I probably got my love of the genre from reading all those books, free! Unfortunately he’s no longer with us, but I think still had an impact. My agent had been shopping around my manuscript to publishers, which takes a lot of time. But the very next day after my stepfather died, my book was sold! So I think I had a little help from above.
Is there an anecdote you could share about authors you ran into when growing up?
Actually, I’ve got one for both!
My stepfather was a literary agent and one of his clients was the bestselling author, Robert Ludlum (many know him for the Jason Bourne movies with Matt Damon). Once I got to stay at his winter home in St. Thomas. I remember waking up one morning, going into his living room and seeing him on the couch writing on a yellow legal pad with a pencil. That’s how he wrote his 450 page novels, by hand! While I admired Ludlum’s plotting and prose, I couldn’t do that! Thankfully, when it came time for me to write What Goes Around, I had a PC!
Regarding Capote, I grew up in a bit of a literary milieu, then went to NYU for business. It was when writing my MBA thesis that I was able to marry my love of books with my new love of marketing, as my thesis was on “Marketing in the Publishing Industry.” In fact, the industry’s trade journal, Publishers Weekly, excerpted my thesis in 3 editions, and paid me. That was the first time I got paid for my writing–I liked that!
During the research for it I interviewed a lot of publishing executives. One time I was waiting outside the office of the Editor-in-Chief for Simon& Schuster, and finally the door opens, and I’m ushered in and who do I meet–Truman Capote! As a thriller writer, meeting the author of In Cold Blood was amazing! And he looked exactly as you’d imagine.
What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
Believe in yourself and never give up.
Write every day, even if it’s only 10 minutes.
Learn your craft–there are so many opportunities! Online courses (I took courses on BBC Maestro from Lee Child and Harlan Coben). Conventions-Thrillerfest in NYC puts on great craft seminars. There are writing groups too. Read in your genre and never stop learning.
What advice would you give to your neighbors about life?
Wow,that’s a big question.
But I guess it boils down to be nice. Because, What Goes Around, Comes Around!
Nina Soden 