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CHRIS UNDERWOOD lives in central Ohio with his wonderful wife and three children who are one by one being pushed out the door for college. His passions have included woodworking and the completion of a 10 year historical home restoration, in addition to his Computer Consulting career. More recently his passions for sailing and writing have been given more attention in his life. Chris openly pines for the day that writing and sailing completely consumes it. Creative Writing was always an interest, even decades ago when in college at Ohio State. Business Writing courses were pushed to the side in favor of Short Story and Sci-Fi. In the end, a Computer Science and Accounting degree seemed more promising in today’s world and writing was put on the back burner. Until a few years ago. A subject matter and storyline were generated that created enough passion to put pen to paper. Now writing is a daily event, with two more stories in process!
The Niagara Falls Power Grid is down and a snowstorm is coming.
The Cold Winter The Cold Winter Series Book 1 by Chris Underwood Genre: Disaster, Survival Fiction
The Niagara Falls grid is down. A snowstorm traps the unprepared. A cold winter lies ahead.
The Northeast corner of the US goes dark. The rest of the country has power, and desperate travelers jam the roads to get there. They can’t make it. Millions of people are displaced as a massive snowstorm descends.
The Vesper family lives in a small town in central Ohio. They’ve prepped, but not enough. They vow to do the right thing for any person in need. The radio promises that everything will be back to normal soon. Instead, it’s a cold, brutal winter.
The power is still out. Help isn’t coming. The fight for America begins.
As central Ohio families struggle to survive through a snowy blackout, an organized effort to take over the country unfolds around them. A coup plays out against a backdrop of systemic failure, and village residents must band together to stay true to their values while strengthening borders against attackers.
An in-the-know ham radio operator aids the villagers in their defense preparations, and in doing so, uncovers a secret advantage—one that gives them a chance to stop loving in reaction mode. As a call to arms goes out, Ohioans fight back against the attempted takedown of everything they love.
The Grid is Down. A VIP upriver needs to be rescued. Modern Engines can’t be trusted. To win, the battle must turn unconventional…. And a little Historical.
A modern minuteman militia is operating out of Steubenville Ohio with a VIP to deliver. Their Huey helicopter is grounded so travel is the old-fashioned way on the Ohio River. Then it gets even more old-fashioned. Another militia in Evansville Indiana has the World War 2 LST-325 in their command. Seven hundred miles of river is between them, but the historic battleship is pushing upstream to help. The battles along the Ohio River come to a conclusion in an epic battle on Wheeling Island!
The Official Release date of this book was June 6, 2024, the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. Chris Underwood was on the actual LST-325, docked on the Ohio River, signing books for this official opening date. He has volunteered on this historical ship and proud to include it in this book.
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Sadie encounters a nemesis from her past. Is it coincidence or is it something more sinister? Book 2 reveals the truth!
Vengeful CONspiracies A Sadie Sabatini Mystery Book 2 by Nicole Leiren Genre: Cozy Mystery
Sadie is settling into her new life in Wilson, Texas. She’s making friends and her business, Tesoro, is starting to thrive. But the past is never far behind. When two former team members come for a visit, they bring trouble in the form of a mutual enemy set on revenge threatening to disrupt Sadie’s fresh start.
She can’t turn her back on her team, though. They’ve been through too much together. The more Sadie tries to help, the more she suspects she might be the target of the con this time. With forces conspiring against her, the outcome of her decisions, both past and present, weigh heavily and make her question the choices she made leading to this point.
When their mutual enemy is found dead, alliances are tested, and wits are matched as the race to the truth reveals who can be trusted and who is running their final con.
Sadie Sabatini thinks of herself as a modern-day Robin Hood who uses her gift as a skilled con artist to help those who have nowhere else to turn. Leading this life is rewarding, but the number of enemies are piling up. Sadie decides to lay low and start over with a new (and legitimate business) in the small town of Wilson, Texas, situated on a small peninsula in beautiful Lake Amore.
Trouble is never far behind though and her past catches up to her in a big way when a friend of a former mark threatens blackmail for his silence. When he turns up dead and Sadie is the prime suspect, she realizes this time she must protect herself. Her skills prove helpful as she digs deeper into the web of revenge, blackmail, and secrets to discover she’s not the only one with a past to hide.
As the threats mount, Sadie knows she’s closing in on the truth. She now worries that the few new friends she’s made in town are in danger because of her. With time running out, can she protect those around her and find the real killer before this new chapter in her life is conned out of a happy ending?
Described by those who know her best as perky, quirky and effervescent, USA Today Best-Selling author Nicole Leiren likes to have fun — in life, with her characters and, of course, her readers. She admits to being sassy (just ask her mother!) and inspiration for her characters are drawn from the real-world heroes and heroines she meets while traversing the country. Nicole enjoys sharing the love, laughter, mystery, and occasionally a touch of the mayhem she forces her characters to endure—all for the reader’s pleasure! Her real-world heroes and heroines will keep you turning the pages until you reach the whodunit or happily ever after (usually both!)
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Fun facts about the Author (that you might not find anywhere else)
As I share in a lot of my blog posts, I was born in a small town. My parents both worked their entire careers in the medical field. My mom was a registered nurse who spent the majority of her career in geriatric care (nursing homes.) Her love for others and the way she cares for them served as a great inspiration for Sadie’s mom in the new series. Interestingly enough, she has teased me for years about writing female characters who don’t have good relationships with their mothers. She would narrow her gaze and say, “Are you trying to tell me something?” To which I always replied with a laugh, “No, mom. If they got along great with everyone, including their parents, there would be no drama. And what story doesn’t have some drama??!!” So for my mom (who I have a great relationship with, by the way), I decided Sadie’s family drama could be with another member of the family and she and her parents would have a strong, supportive relationship.
Let’s see, I started going to a private, Christian school when I was in 7th grade. After my mom witnessed a drug deal in the parking lot of the school I was attending, she decided my sister and I needed to be educated elsewhere. She and my dad worked hard and sacrificed to afford the tuition so I worked hard in return and graduated co-valedictorian of my class at age 16. Lest anyone get the wrong impression that I’m super smart, I’ll stop you right there. I’d say I was of average intelligence possessing a gift for knowing what teachers liked to read in essays and worked very hard. I also had a knack for picking classes that helped me earn the credits necessary to accumulate for graduation. I didn’t go on to Harvard or anything like that. Instead, I went to a local community college and got my associates degree in secretarial science, specializing in the legal field. I won’t regale you with any more tales of my education journey other than to tell you I went back to college after I got married (at age 19) and had a baby (at age 20) to get my Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Management.
I’ve been married to my real world hero for 36 years now and we just have the one child, who is now married and has gifted me the sweetest little grandson ever. Both my daughter and her husband (and now their child) are only children so it makes for some interesting dynamics in their household.
For fun, I love to sing karaoke and perform every year in a variety show hosted by the neighborhood I live in. We do four shows in three nights and it is a way we build community. Perhaps if Sadie’s story continues, we’ll have a book that is centered around the show. I also have my red-black belt in taekwondo and would love some day to get my black belt. However, as it’s been a very long time since I’ve studied the martial art, I fear the time it would take me to get back up to speed and learn all I needed to in order to achieve that might not be in the cards. Although, one never knows what the future holds! With starting piano lessons when I was in elementary school, I loved playing and my initial dream was to be a concert pianist and play at Carnegie Hall. Being a realist, I knew the likelihood of that was slim to none and I enjoy eating to much to be a starving artist (hence why I still have a day job while pursuing my writing career 😉) Being a wife, mom, employee, and student left little time for such things, but I’m happy to report that my husband encouraged me to procure a keyboard in December of 2024 that has the “real feel” keys and I’ve set aside time a couple times a week to begin playing again. It does my soul good to hear the music again.
I think that’s enough fun facts/secrets for one sharing session – thanks for hanging out with me.
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His mountain solitude shattered. Her lab prison escaped. Together they’ll find refuge or die trying.
Shadowed Skies by Haley Cavanagh Genre: YA Clean Dystopian SciFi Fantasy Romance
Hunted for their blood. Fighting for their future.
River He’s the last of his kind, a winged warrior hidden in the mountains. River Shaw has lost everything: his sanctuary, the only shield from a world that fears and hunts him. When Delene, another of his kind, crash-lands into his life, wounded and on the run, his solitude is shattered.
Delene She’s a fugitive with a secret, escaping the clutches of dark forces that took everything from her. Delene Fairborne’s flight to freedom leads her to River and the spark of a bond neither can deny.
In a landscape scarred by betrayal and danger, River and Delene must navigate their growing feelings and the sinister scientist who will stop at nothing to harness their power. Shadowed Skies is where love takes wing, hope soars, and destiny entwines. Dive into a world where every heartbeat is a rebellion, every glance a promise, and every flight a taste of freedom.
Haley Cavanagh is a military veteran, wife, and mother. She was awarded the League of Utah Writers 2020 Silver Quill Award for Retaliation, the second novel in her Oceanstone Initiative series. Haley is an alumna of Columbia College, a musical theater nut, and she loves to dive into any book that crosses her path. Haley resides with her family in the United States and enjoys spending time with her husband and children when she’s not writing. She loves to hear from her readers and encourages you to contact her via her website and social media.
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Behind the Scenes: The Inspiration for Shadowed Skies Every story has an origin, and Shadowed Skies was no exception. This novel was born out of a mix of inspiration, personal experience, and a love for dystopian adventure with a touch of the fantastical. Today, I’m taking you behind the scenes to explore how this story came to life—from its first spark of an idea to the fully realized world of the Evol-humans.
The Spark of an Idea The first whispers of Shadowed Skies emerged during NaNoWriMo 2019. At the time, life was a whirlwind of responsibilities, and most of my writing sessions took place in the carpool lane while waiting for my kids. It was during those stolen moments that River and Delene’s world began to take shape. I wanted to write a story that blended high-stakes survival with the emotional depth of identity, freedom, and resistance.
Wings, Science, and the Ethics of Experimentation I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of science and ethics, particularly the unintended consequences of genetic experimentation. What if human beings were engineered for a purpose—only to be discarded when that purpose no longer suited their creators? This question became the foundation of Shadowed Skies and the plight of the Evol-humans. Designed as super-soldiers with avian DNA, they were meant to be resilient, capable of thriving in extreme environments. But as history often repeats, humanity fears what it does not understand. The same people who created the Evol-humans turned on them, leading to their persecution, imprisonment, and fight for survival.
A World Shaped by Dystopian Influences I’ve always been drawn to dystopian fiction, from classics like 1984 and Brave New World to modern YA series like The Hunger Games and The Darkest Minds. These stories highlight resilience in the face of oppression, a theme that resonated deeply with me. However, I wanted to add a unique twist—rather than a purely tech-driven future, Shadowed Skies introduces an evolutionary shift, where biology itself becomes both a weapon and a weakness.
Survival in the Wild Much of Shadowed Skies is set in rugged, mountainous landscapes, inspired by the breathtaking wilderness of Utah. I wanted to capture the raw beauty and danger of the wild—how nature can be both a sanctuary and a merciless force. River, one of the main characters, has learned to live off the land, a skill that not only defines his character but also plays a crucial role in the survival of those like him.
Characters with Heart and Struggle At its core, this story is about two people who refuse to be caged—literally and figuratively. River, haunted by loss and determined to stay hidden, must confront his past and decide if he will fight for more than just his own survival. Delene, who has suffered unimaginable losses, refuses to let fear break her spirit. Their journey is one of trust, resilience, and ultimately, hope.
The Journey from Draft to Publication Like any novel, Shadowed Skies went through multiple drafts, revisions, and deep dives into worldbuilding. Thanks to an incredible editorial team and supportive readers, the story transformed into what it is today—a thrilling blend of action, suspense, and heart.
Final Thoughts Writing Shadowed Skies was an adventure, one that challenged me in ways I never expected. I hope readers find themselves lost in this world, rooting for River and Delene as they navigate a future shaped by both humanity’s cruelty and its potential for redemption. Thank you for joining me on this behind-the-scenes look at Shadowed Skies! I’d love to hear from you—what are your favorite dystopian worlds, and what elements make them unforgettable to you?
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In the absence of doubt, only faith is found.
Stone of Doubt Stones of Iona Book 5 by Margaret Izard Genre: Time Travel, Paranormal Romance
A human with Fae powers living like an oddball has its ups and downs until Evie MacDougall’s dream Fae boy pops back into her life after she thought another was “the one.” One dark and devilish, the other her long-lost love. Evil forces trap her for a magic Fae stone, but which man can she trust?
As a teen prophesied to be Fae king, Aodhán viewed the girl of his dreams through an Eye of Ra. Once, he risked all to help Evie MacDougall find a magic Fae stone, only to end up imprisoned. Kept from his true love for years, he finds her at risk from an evil Fae hunting a magic stone.
Is a single vow strong enough to save true love, to save the human and Fae realms?
Don’t miss the other books in the series! Previous books in the series, Stone of Love, book 1, Brielle and Colin’s 18th century Scottish story. Stone of Fear, Book 2, Marie and John’s 13th century Scottish story. Stone of Lust, Book 3, Ainslie and Rannick’s Viking tale. Thistle in the Mistletoe featuring a couple in the past from Stone of Love.
Next in the series: Holly and Ivy, a Christmas companion book. Stone of Faith, book 6. Stone of Destiny, book 7. Evergreen Evermore, a Christmas companion book. This series leads into another connected series, Dragons of Tantallon, a dragon-shapeshifter series revolving around the magic Iona Stones.
Margaret Izard is a multi-award-winning author of historical fantasy and paranormal romance novels. She spent her early years through college to adulthood dedicated to dance, theater, and performing. Over the years, she developed a love for great storytelling in different mediums. She does not waste a good story, be it movement, the spoken, or the written word. She discovered historical romance novels in middle school, which combined her passion for romance, drama, and fantasy. She writes exciting plot lines, steamy love scenes and always falls for a strong male with a soft heart. She lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband and adult triplets and loves to hear from readers.
Would you like a chance to win aStone of Doubt Swag Pack (US only), or a $30 Amazon gift card (WW) ~ 1 winner each! Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
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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!
Romance is in the air with this amazing new series by best-selling author Libby Kay. Pinegrove has it all, sexy firemen, town busybodies, and tons of charm! When these sparks fly, a happily ever after is in the cards!
When Sparks Fly A Pinegrove FD Novel Book 1 by Libby Kay Genre: Contemporary Small-Town Romance
Two broken hearts, one charming small town, and a few sparks may be the recipe for love… Whitney Kerr is at a crossroads—literally. After jumping behind the wheel to flee Savannah, and a bad breakup, this Southern Belle is in search of a fresh start. Stopping in a charming smalltown seems like the perfect place to catch her breath and find herself. It’s too bad a certain fireman with a crooked grin and kind eyes could have her plans of self-discovery going up in a puff of smoke.
Trevor Mays is at a crossroads—figuratively. Still grieving the loss of his father, he was unceremoniously dumped by his fiancée, who quickly rebounded with his work rival. Just as he thinks things can’t get worse, he loses the captain’s promotion—to the man who stole his ex. He’s about to give up on ever smiling again when a curly-haired beauty with curves for days stumbles into his hometown.
With some help from the residents of Pinegrove, this pair will discover that much like the perfect fireworks show, love only needs a spark.
Fans of Sherryl Woods’ Sweet Magnolias series and Sarah Adams’s When in Rome series will fall in love with Libby Kay’s sweet fireman romance. Ms. Kay’s engaging stories fill your heart and head with possibilities and will quickly become your new favorite!
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.
Get enchanted by these modern-day princesses and their billionaire romances!
Once Upon a Billionaire The Billionaire Fairy Tales Book 4 by MacKenzie Stowe Genre: Contemporary Billionaire Romance
In the bustling heart of New York City, Kiara Aurelius, a reserved school teacher, takes on an unusual gig: house-sitting for Barrett Olson, a suave and enigmatic businessman she’s never met. Nestled in his upscale penthouse, Kiara delights in the luxurious surroundings, immersing herself in Barrett’s world while capturing the city’s vibrant essence from his panoramic windows. Barrett returns home unexpectedly, catching Kiara off guard. Rather than being angry, he is intrigued by the beautiful stranger in his home. The air crackles with undeniable chemistry as they navigate this unexpected encounter. As night falls, their connection deepens, and passion ignites in ways neither could have imagined and evolves into an unforgettable weekend. As the weekend comes to a close, Kiara and Barrett part ways, uncertain if they’ll ever meet again. They are unexpectedly reunited, but their burgeoning romance faces obstacles they never anticipated. Kiara’s protective brother and Barrett’s disapproving employee threaten to tear them apart. Caught between family loyalty and societal expectations, Kiara and Barrett must decide if their love is worth fighting for. In this modern retelling of The Three Little Bears, Once Upon a Billionaire explores the delicate balance of love and trust in a world where appearances can be deceiving. Will Kiara and Barrett find a way to navigate their differences and build a love that’s just right, or will the forces against them prove too great to overcome? Dive into a story where love is a gamble and only the strongest hearts prevail.
This book was previous published as a novella as part of the Tall Dark and Rich Anthology. It has been reimagined as a full novel.
In the bustling streets of modern-day New York City, a captivating retelling of the beloved fairy tale “The Little Mermaid” unfolds. Fate brought Aracely and Sebastian together as teenagers, but stubbornness and miscommunication kept them apart. Now, Sebastian, a famous movie star, is in New York City, with one plan in mind, to win the woman that he loves and secure the future he can only have with her. Or else. Aracely, a brilliant resident doctor, had her heart broken once by Sebastian. She isn’t ready to let him do it again. But Sebastian is determined to prove his worth and devotion. He embarks on a quest to capture Ariel’s heart, even if it means reevaluating his own priorities. Can Sebastian break free from the constraints of his own fame and win the heart of the remarkable Aracely? Can Aracely find the courage to embrace her own desires, or will insecurity and duty stand in her way? This contemporary twist on a classic tale weaves its spell over New York City. Inviting readers on a journey of love, sacrifice, and the enduring power of true connection. Can love conquer all, or will the tides of destiny wash away their chance at happiness? Only time will tell if their love will stand the test of stardom. Once Upon a Star is a second chance steamy romance based in New York City. It has plenty of heat, laughter, with a guaranteed HEA and no cliffhangers.
Navigating the glittering world of high society and the shadowy underbelly of the city in this modern retelling of “Beauty and the Beast.”
Meet Layla Brown, a fiercely independent and intelligent young woman who is living her dream as an employee of the New York City Public Library. And Nicodemus Murphy, a brooding and enigmatic billionaire who has hidden from life and the woman he loves for years, his childhood friend, Layla.
When a scandal threatens to ruin Nic’s career, he and Layla are forced to see each other again. Old wounds and unrequited love come to the surface, causing the friends to comfort their past and embark on a love neither thought was possible.
Nicodemus and Layla’s bond strengthens as he battles his inner struggles, finding peace in her unconditional love. But will it last? When his past and misdeeds catch up with him, can he trust the love he and Layla have found to get through it? Or will doubt and deception keep the two lovers apart?
With a rich tapestry of modern themes and steamy romance, this enchanting retelling will captivate your heart. This poignant reimagining explores the transformative power of love and the resilience of the human spirit.
Once Upon a Beast is a friends-to-lovers steamy romance set in New York City. It has plenty of heat and laughter with a guaranteed HEA and no cliffhangers.
What if the women of Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, and Little Mermaid, were best friends? Find out in this modern retelling of Cinderella. Ella Taylor is a young woman with dreams as big as the city skyline. Finally, free of her evil stepmother, she has only one goal; to stay out of her clutches forever. She finds a willing ally in Dax Moore, her boss, an ambition and determined man who has put away his playboy ways to prove he is the only man to run his family’s company. Amidst the long hours and dedication, a romance slowly blossoms, shocking and surprising them both. With the help of her friends, and Dax’s love and loyalty, Ella slowly carves a life out in the city. But when Ella’s past threatens to unravel all she has worked for. She must choose between the life she’s always known and the love she never imagined possible. Can she trust what she and Dax have to stand the wrath of her stepmother? This enchanting retelling of Cinderella weaves together modern-day charm, steamy romance, and sparkling cityscapes. Reminding us that dreams can come true, even in the heart of New York City. Get ready to be swept away in a tale of love, self-discovery, and the magic that exists when two souls meet in the urban jungle. Once Upon a Prince is a steamy office romance based in New York City. It has plenty of heat, laughter, with a guaranteed HEA and no cliffhangers.
MacKenzie Stowe was born in Southern California. From a young child she loved to travel and explore new worlds. When she wasn’t traveling she found escape in reading. As an author, she likes to combined both passions in her life. She uses her experience as a SCUBA instructor, a crew member of a cruise ship and deck hand on a tall ship to help bring unique perspectives to her books. She still lives in Southern California where she is planning her next adventure and book series.
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Dystopian. Biology shapes reality… One woman’s mythic search for self-realization in a distant tomorrow… Her sensuality was at the core of her world, her quest beyond the civilized stars. Aristocrat. Outcast. Picara. Slave. Ruler.
High Couch of Silistra The Silistra Quartet Book 1 By Janet Morris Genre: Epic Dystopian SciFi Fantasy
“Engrossing characters in a marvelous adventure.” – Charles N. Brown, Locus Magazine
“The amazing and erotic adventures of the most beautiful courtesan in tomorrow’s universe” – Frederik Pohl
I was high-couch in the greatest house of pleasure in the civilized stars.
“We are all bound,” is the great truth of Silistra: Bound by biological necessity and genetics, the men and women of Silistra struggle to sort Nature from Nurture – where Nature always wins. Welcome to Silistra, a glimpse of a far distant future wherein a civilization proclaims the greatest feat an individual can perform is to produce one child, yet distrusts the sciences that brought them to verge of extinction.
Here women and men coexist uneasily in a society ravaged by war, technology, and infertility, each vying for power, each seeking dominion over one another. Be warned, if your tastes run to simplistic plots, throbbing organs, swooning damsels or kick-boxing women in men’s armor, Silistra may be too challenging. Feminists, misogynists, misanthropes, or fans of political diatribe, this is not the book for you.
High Couch of Silistra, first of the notorious Silistra Quartet, brings us to a realm where thought alters probability, where creativity is inextricably linked to the urge to own and dominate, and where the universe itself is amenable to a focused mind.
Rooted deeply in humanity’s mythic past yet unaware of the planet Earth, High Couch of Silistra begins one woman’s mythic quest for self-knowledge – with surprising results.
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. She contributed short fiction to the shared universe fantasy series Thieves World, in which she created the Sacred Band of Stepsons, a mythical unit of ancient fighters modeled on the Sacred Band of Thebes. She created, orchestrated, and edited the Bangsian fantasy series Heroes in Hell, writing stories for the series as well as co-writing the related novel, The Little Helliad, with Chris Morris. She wrote the bestselling Silistra Quartet in the 1970s, including High Couch of Silistra, The Golden Sword, Wind from the Abyss, and The Carnelian Throne. This quartet had more than four million copies in Bantam print alone, and was translated into German, French, Italian, Russian and other languages. In the 1980s, Baen Books released a second edition of this landmark series. The third edition is the Author’s Cut edition, newly revised by the author for Perseid Press. Most of her fiction work has been in the fantasy and science fiction genres, although she has also written historical and other novels. Morris has written, 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.
Janet said: ‘People often ask what book to read first. I recommend “I, the Sun” if you like ancient history; “The Sacred Band,” a novel, if you like heroic fantasy; “Lawyers in Hell” if you like historical fantasy set in hell; “Outpassage” if you like hard science fiction; “High Couch of Silistra” if you like far-future dystopian or philosophical novels. I am most enthusiastic about the definitive Perseid Press Author’s Cut editions, which I revised and expanded.’
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Q&A WITH THE AUTHOR
What is something unique/quirky about you?
I breed Morgan horses. I consult with Morgan breeders to help them choose breeding combinations to achieve a desired result. I am also a song writer; I play bass guitar with my husband Chris who 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?
I wrote my first novel, High Couch of Silistra in 1975; a friend sent it to an agent who chose to represent me; I had already written the second book in the Silistra Quartet and my agent told me not to disclose that until they finalized the contract for the first one. When the publisher learned of the others, Bantam Books bought the succeeding three. When the fourth book was published, the series already had four million copies in print. Suddenly I was a novelist specializing in environmental, gender, historical and political subjects. In the process, Chris became my editor and ultimately a co-writer. Since then, we have co-authored many books.
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. I’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. I write cinematically, our books are vivid adventures I undertake without knowing the destination. I, the Sun, The Sacred Band, and Outpassage 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 Silistra Quartet?
The Silistra Quartet was a unique departure for me and it included issues of women’s rights in the 70’s before Handmaid’s Tale.
Convince us why you feel High Couch of Silistra is a must read.
The Silistra series in which High Couch of Silistra is book 1 blazed a new trail in science fiction and fantasy, many critics saying that I had created a new pantheon of warrior women giving rise to heroines like Xena. Today it is more important than ever for everyone to accept women in leadership roles and I would like to think we had something to do with gaining them more recognition.
Who designed your book covers?
Most of my covers, including High Couch of Silistra, are realized by Roy Mauritsen, a gifted graphic artist.
Advice to writers?
As for advice to writers, here is all I 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 I, as the writer, can’t feel what it’s like being there, my 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.
I am happy to be one of many tour hosts sharing information about
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.
Sometimes the road to a fresh start has a few detours
Lines We Shouldn’t Cross The Innocence Series Book 1 by Harper Reynolds Genre: Contemporary Romance
When they first meet, sparks fly…but not the romantic kind…
Ella Westhoff is a marketing genius. But romance? Not her strong suit. So, while she’s prepared to return to her small hometown and help her grandmother successfully reopen her B&B, she will not fall for the grumpy landscaper on the job—the one who so thoroughly annoyed her at first sight. That was the plan, anyway…
Cooper Daniels isn’t cut out for love, either. His bitter divorce certainly taught him that. One-night stands are all he’s willing to commit to these days. Which means that even though he enjoys bantering with the brilliant Ella, he knows he can’t be the kind of guy she deserves. No matter how much she makes him wish he could be…
Somewhere between fresh starts and past hurts, business and pleasure, Ella and Cooper might be able to claim a happily ever after. But only if they’re willing to cross some lines along the way…
Lines We Shouldn’t Cross, book 1 in the Innocence series, is a sweet and spicy, emotional contemporary romance. Download today and get ready to fall for Ella and Cooper.
I write the kind of romance novels that blend sweet and spicy into something deliciously real – stories that’ll warm your heart one minute and make you reach for a fan the next. My characters are flawed souls who stumble their way to love with enough emotional baggage to fill a cargo plane, but they’re worth every messy moment.
Life handed me my own romance novel when I fell for an American military man while living in Germany. Now I’m living my happily-ever-after in a cozy Kentucky town, where my European roots tangle perfectly with Southern charm. You’ll find me powered by excessive amounts of coffee, testing ice cream flavors (strictly for research purposes), and soaking up cuddles from my golden retrievers, Dakota and Tucker.
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.
Betrayed! Banished! Broken! Can Luther’s love for Amelia survive?
The Forgotten The Realms of Darkness Book 1 by KA Stefana Genre: Dark Fantasy, Paranormal Romance
My name is Luther Van Leer, and I’m a prisoner in the vampire queen’s castle. She’ll let me out if I’m willing to meet her demands, but I will refuse until she puts a stake through my heart. I’ll not let her turn me into a monster. At least, that was my plan. With a turning kiss, I was turned into a monster, banished, beaten, and betrayed. Now, my master expects that I will fall in love with her and play nice. If my cold-dark heart ever finds her, revenge will be mine!
Step into the dark and feudal world of the four kingdoms. The prophecy hangs over the land, turning kings and queens against each other. When Amelia turns Luther, she unknowingly drags him into her world. Instead of gaining a lover, she gains another enemy. Will Luther forgive her ultimate betrayal and help her survive, or will he abandon her? It would be his right.
From the darkness of the salt mines, the horrors of the bird cages, the temptations of the Forbidden Lake, and dragon tattoos, Luther and Amelia will be in a race against time to save their kingdom.
This is book 1 in the Realms of Darkness Series.
This book was first published on Amazon’s Kindle Vella.
Welcome Readers! I am so excited that you are taking this journey with me into the Shadowvere, where my characters live. I love to weave tales of darkness and light, pushing my characters to the end of themselves. How will they react? Some may fall into evil, spiraling into a never-ending vortex of darkness. Others may walk the line between the realms of darkness and light. Only a few will rise above the chaos. They are the defenders and heroes in the world of shadows, but they, too, wrestle with the shadows surrounding them, trying to lure them down dark alleyways and into the back rooms of iniquity. My friends always ask me where my tales come from. I guess it comes from years of reading great tales from the likes of Tolkien, Lewis, and so many others. In reality, I don’t have a clue. The stories somehow flow from the unruly characters that beg to be written yet refuse to follow their storylines. Just the way I like it! Past the shadows, you will find twist of romance between kings and outcasts, enemies to lovers and everything in between. As for me, I started my writing journey during quarantine and haven’t stopped writing since. I am thankful for the writing community and their support and for my family and friends. Most of all, I am blessed to have a husband who supports all of my late-night shenanigans, wrestling with characters and pounding away at the keyboard until the wee hours of the morning. ~ A million hugs! Thanks for joining the Shadowverse.
Would you like a chance to win a$40 Amazon gift card or a The Forgotten Swag Pack? (1 winner each) Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
I am happy to be one of many tour hosts sharing information about
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.
Secrets, demons, lovers and murder… Who can you trust?
In the Dark The Cities Below Book 1 by Jen Colly Genre: Paranormal Romance
Fate will not be denied. Faith should be crowned “Queen of the Wrong Place and Wrong Time.” Her impulsive, solo trip to Paris seems like a genius idea – until she loses her way back to the hotel. In the rain. At night. When the two men she flags down for directions shove her into the nearest alley, she fears the worst. Soren was irritable. Not surprising as he’d held off feeding as long as possible. The thought of feeding from someone he knew turned his stomach, and so he ventured above to become just another body in the chaos of Paris. But when the cries of a female in distress reach his ears, everything inside him demands he protect her, and he is unable to hide the true nature of his species. Soren has no choice but to keep her and bring her to his underground city. It doesn’t take him long to realize why he’d been drawn to Paris, to that street, that alley…Faith. She is the other half of his soul. Admitting the truth to her could damage the fragile connection they built, but when an old enemy, lurking in the dark attacks, they are separated. Now, he may never have the chance.
His heart belongs to one woman, his life to another. Keir didn’t exist. Not anymore. The Lady of Galbraith had saved him from death. Forever indebted to her alone, Keir had become her confidant, her spy, her assassin. He was her secret weapon against those trying to remove her from power. When Keir is ambushed by a pack of demons, he used the last of his strength to return home and warn the Lady of impending danger. To say she was stunned when a dying man fell to her feet, was an understatement. For the first time in her life, Cleo acted on instinct and without hesitation – their lives now undeniably bound together. Her single act of benevolence left her reeling, confronted with the knowledge that a stranger had more care and consideration for her well-being than her own family. Political upheaval is sweeping through the city of Galbraith, splitting alliances and stoking discord. When Cleo is abducted, taken in retaliation from the side she’s chosen, only Keir can get her back. And he will, even if he must start a war.
Demons are not the only enemy among them… Waking from a seven year healing sleep should have been the biggest shock of Navarre’s night. It was not. The brave female standing before him was, without a doubt, his fated mate. That wasn’t the stunner either. She’d been sent here to feed him, to bring him back and restore his strength, risking her life to save his. Still, not yet the biggest surprise. What had Navarre reeling was her red hair. She was decidedly not his kind. Cat had responsibilities. Five, to be exact. The children in her care were not hers, but she would do anything to protect them, and that meant staying in Balinese. The evidence of her mixed species was something she could not hide. As this city belonged to Navarre, only he has the authority to allow her to stay. Cat willingly faces her greatest fear, and with it, her past. Beneath the night, a dark plot unfolds, and Navarre finds himself in danger of losing not only Cat, but his entire city.
When the enemy is your mind, there is no escape. Bette feared the city, and for good reason. Valenna had become corrupt, targeting citizens with any substantial amount of wealth or power to their name. Her self-imposed solitary confinement caused her to lose track of time, and her sanity. She could no longer live this way. Only three solutions existed: allow Valenna to dictate her fate, die in the sun, or flee to the fabled city of peace. Bette ran. Rollin was a Guardian. His job defined his life, the man he’d become, and his core beliefs. Everything he did was in service to the city of Balinese and the citizens within. When a terrified female crashed into his arms, begging for help, he did not hesitate. Everyone and everything seemed to frighten her, except Rollin. He took her home, and once safe under his protection, she began to flourish. Problem was, in her plea for sanctuary, she claimed a demon chased her toward Balinese, but none had been found. His affection for her grows rapidly, as does his concern over her lie. Then, the arrival of a demon forces Rollin to question his beliefs, his place among the royal family, and the motives of the woman he so lovingly sheltered.
Savard was in a mood to die, but when a human insists on saving his life, death is no longer an immediate option. He knew of no species – human, vampire, or demon – that could see him while in his invisible Spirit form. Unique to this world, this woman’s singularity was a danger to the entire vampire race.
Waking behind bars in an underground vampire city was not how Sera envisioned her night drive ending. She has come to expect nothing from those who pass through her life, but this man, dying on the side of the road, proves to be different. Savard fights to free her from tyrannical vampire laws and to hide her unique abilities. What Sera doesn’t understand, is why he would fight his growing love for her.
Savard’s haunted past threatens to tear them apart. Soon, Sera discovers just how far her guardian is willing to go, and what he’s willing to do, to keep her safe.
He had every intention of crossing a line. In all honesty, Jake had to give his trip to Paris mixed reviews. Beaten and broken by seemingly invincible men with eerie red eyes marked the low point, but abduction by a sexy, knife-wielding vampire? Better than fireworks on the Fourth of July. She was the best medicine for a wounded man’s body and soul. A few busted ribs cost him precious time, but he had to keep moving. Call it vengeance or justice, either way, Jake had a man to kill. Dulcina had witnessed the destruction left in the wake of demons for far too many years to be rattled by a bloody body. She brought him home and catered to his comfort. Big mistake. The smart-mouth, irritatingly likable man pulled through, and was determined to leave, but with knowledge of other species in his head, the human is a problem. To stop Jake from escaping, Dulcina promised to help him finish his mission, but the price was steep, and neither were prepared for what they discovered. Secrets are uncovered, and as a Night Stalker charged with protecting all species, Dulcina is forced to make a difficult choice.
Jen Colly is the rare case of an author who rebelled against reading assignments throughout her school years. Now she prefers reading books in a series, which has led her to writing her first paranormal romance series: The Cities Below. She will write about anything that catches her fancy, though truth be told, her weaknesses are pirates and vampires.
She lives in Ohio with her supportive husband, two kids, and four rescued cats.
Would you like a chance to win a$25 Amazon gift card? Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway
Where did you come up with the names in the story?
I’m likely a different breed when it comes to name picking. I tend to start with a vivid scene in my mind’s eye. Once I write that scene down, whether it’s two paragraphs or two pages, I can’t keep going without names. Names are part of a personality, and if it doesn’t fit, I can’t ‘see’ the character. The name Dulcina literally means sweet. On the surface, she’s not at all sweet. She fights being feminine at every turn, and while she is not at all fluff and pastels, at her core Dulcina is caring, compassionate, and a very sultry female. Feminine and sweet are absolutely a part of her, and she guards herself, but has a way of bringing that side out in her.
Jake Martin. I had his last name before his first name, which is wild because it’s not used much. I could hear Officer Martin in my head. For his first name I needed something short, to the point, with a hint of a joking personality. Jake. Only a Jake would be able to roll with the punches and handle Dulcina because, well, she punches.
What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
The surprises! Every time I push forward and write the next book in this series, I’m surprised. Either by how the hero/heroine respond to pressure and each other, or the shock of something unexpected being thrown into the plot line. In Night Stalker I found a demon who, at least as far as I can tell, is a good guy. It feels weird. I like it.
Tell us about your main characters- what makes them tick?
When it comes down to it, both Dulcina and Jake were originally driven by seeking vengeance for the loss of someone they loved. Demons killed Dulcina’s family. She left her home and ventured above ground, feeling the need to kill demons before hey had a chance to kill others. As often happens when you leave the nest and take on life by yourself, you’re hit with reality, and your perspective is altered. Though we don’t see it first hand, Dulcina has already been through her crucible. Her views on demons have shifted. What we do see, are the changes in her compared to previous books.
Jake is hunting the man who killed his best friend on the SWAT unit. The pain of her loss is new and raw, and when he sees the possibility of justice slipping away, he takes matters into his own hands. He had nothing left to lose, and going after a killer who skipped the country seemed like the right decision at the time.
How did you come up with the title of your first novel?
My first… In the Dark is a beautiful piece of groundwork set for the rest of the series. Vampires, being the creatures they are, can only survive in the dark of night. Therefore, they live underground in vast cities they’ve built and expanded over the centuries far away from the sunlight. When a human enters their underground city, she realizes she’s been ‘in the dark’ about the existence of this species. Then the vampires discover they’ve been ‘in the dark’ about an enemy thought long defeated, living among them, waiting for the right moment to attack.
Who designed your book covers?
My Hubby! Now that I have the rights back to the first four books, I’m doing a huge series relaunch. That includes revamped (pun intended) covers! Hubby is also my beta-reader, so he knows these characters and the vibe you feel when immersed in these stories.
Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?
I learn something new with each book. Each drives the next to an extent, and sudden epiphanies about certain characters, cities, or events come to light the deeper I dive into this series. In Night Stalker I learned a demon Enforcer is hiding among vampires in Paris!
I am happy to be one of many tour hosts sharing information about
Nina Soden 