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Outlander meets Black Mirror in this sizzling dark time travel romance!
Outlander meets Black Mirror in this sizzling dark time travel romance!
Sophia
I thought I was trapped in history. Turns out, it’s far worse than I imagined. I woke up in 15th-century England, a brutal world where women are silenced, superstition rules, and survival depends on obedience. Trapped far from my husband and son, nothing makes sense. I’m a scientist, not a damsel in distress, so I did what I had to—I disguised myself as a man and trained with Henry, the castle’s master-at-arms, learning to wield a sword to defend myself. But as I carve my place in this world, my forbidden love for Henry shakes everything I believed in. Do I fight to return home—or surrender to a future I never imagined? Yet, I can’t shake the feeling that Henry is hiding something—something that could shatter everything I’ve fought for.
Ethan
What if the woman you’re supposed to observe becomes the one you can’t live without? I never meant to fall for her. She’s fearless, brilliant, captivating. Every lesson, every stolen moment deepens the lie—and my guilt. I’m not the man she thinks I am. That my name is Ethan, not Henry, is the least of the lies I tell her.
If she learns the truth, I’ll lose her forever.
And time is running out.
Warning: strong language, steamy scenes, and graphic violence inside. Mention/Description of, but not limited to, abduction, blood, death, amputation, childbirth, death, sexual assault, suicide, violence against children, rape, and torture. The book is the first in a duology and ends with a cliffhanger.
Eliza Hampstead, a scientist by training, lives with her family in the UK. When she’s not writing, she spends her time as a geek. Playing all sorts of games (board games, video games, RPGs) and being a big fan of medieval history are only a few of the many hobbies she has. Passionate about fantasy, she’s always planning her next adventure.
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What kind of research do you do before you begin writing a book?
I adore research. Honestly, I probably do more than I need to—there’s something deeply satisfying about falling down rabbit holes of obscure historical detail. For A Code of Knights and Deception, research was both the foundation and one of the biggest time sinks. Because it’s set in 15th-century England, I needed to know everything from castle architecture to medieval bathing habits to the political climate of the time.
I started with primary and secondary sources: nonfiction books about medieval life, particularly focusing on women’s roles, castle structure, daily life, and warfare. I studied Warwick Castle in depth—it’s the story’s anchor setting, so I needed to understand its geography, its history, and its evolution over time. I looked into the de Beauchamp family, who really lived there, and imagined what it would’ve been like to walk those halls as a stranger out of time.
But research isn’t just about accuracy—it’s about authenticity. I wanted readers to feel Sophia’s discomfort when she’s forced into medieval gowns, to smell the smoke and sweat of a castle’s training ground, to hear the Latin chants in a stone chapel. I even researched medieval beauty standards, toxic cosmetics, and how women dealt with menstruation in an era without modern hygiene. (Spoiler: it’s grim.)
I also read about VR and neurotech, because Sophia’s journey isn’t magical—it’s grounded in science fiction. I wanted her time-travel experience to feel plausible, not fantastical, which meant brushing up on brain-computer interfaces and speculative tech.
And then there’s the emotional research. I ask myself: How would I react if this were me? What would terrify me? What would comfort me? I take those internal experiences and layer them into the prose, especially during pivotal moments where Sophia’s isolation, grief, or yearning is at its most raw.
Research grounds the story—but I’ve learned not to let it take over. At the end of the day, the
goal is emotional truth, not academic perfection. I’m writing historical fiction, not a textbook. Still, I think readers can feel when the world is well lived-in—and that’s always worth the extra time.
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The harder you try to escape, the more darkness pulls you under.
The harder you try to escape, the more darkness pulls you under.
Art school dropout Ona Price is forced to clean up after a near-fatal overdose on a Manhattan sidewalk. While in recovery, she lands a job as the assistant to Antoni Azarov, the world-famous sculptor known as The Hands of God. Though he is difficult and brooding, his extraordinary talent reawakens Ona’s passion for art, giving her life the meaning she so desperately craved. An undeniable attraction develops as they work together, but Antoni keeps his physical distance at all costs. When the predatory wife of a wealthy benefactor decides she wants the sculptor for herself, the monstrous secret that fuels Antoni’s art threatens to destroy all.
Oblivion Black is a lush transgressive fairy tale with the Gothic appeal of a Brontë novel. Literary fiction, romance, and thriller fans will appreciate this intense dive into existential confusion, intoxication, eroticism, and the volatile power of beauty.
World-famous sculptor Antoni Azarov, and his muse, Ona Price are ripped apart after a shocking act of violence sends them into their own personal hells.
Trapped in Manhattan, Ona faces her most treacherous enemy, her addiction to heroin, while a dangerous new man claims her desire.
Antoni, an artist defamed, is hellbent on saving Ona before she destroys herself. What he doesn’t know is if she wants to be rescued.
Meanwhile, death haunts them on every corner as a vengeful crime boss called Warlock devours the city, poisoning its addicted population with a flesh-eating drug.
Amid this chaos, Ona and Antoni must struggle against their darkest selves to find a way back to each other—or else give in to the darkness forever.
The propulsive sequel to Oblivion Black, Hierarchy of Needs is an intoxicating exploration of the paradox of love, the chokehold of desire, and the deadly thrills of the underworld. This second book in The Sculptor Series will leave readers fiending for more.
After cheating death in New York, Ona Price’s battle scars run deeper than her disfigured face. Antoni Azarov orchestrates a journey to jolt them out of their artistic dead zone. From the boozy streets of New Orleans to the sultry shores of a Caribbean archipelago, they explore forbidden desires, testing the limits of pleasure and pain.
No matter where their experiences take them, their personal demons hunt them down until their journey ends on a remote lagoon called the Darklands. Will their love survive the dark secrets that threaten to tear them apart, or will the Darklands become the ultimate test of their commitment?
Unveil the dangerous beauty of Darklands, where the human psyche unravels in a sensuous journey that will leave you breathless.
“Darklands is a hair-raising conclusion to The Sculptor trilogy. It reads like a David Lynch erotic fever dream that constantly veers close to the edge of nightmare, ending with a spiritual awakening of biblical proportions. I wept. Adapt this into a movie at once.” —Joseph Sale, author of The Book of Thrice Dead
Christa Wojciechowski is an American dark fiction writer who has lived most her career abroad. She is the author of The Sculptor Series, The SICK Series, and the founder of the Writers Mastermind virtual writing community.
Christa’s novella “Popsicle” (Crystal Lake) was a semi-finalist in Screencraft’s Cinematic Short Story Competition and second rounder in the Launch Pad Prose Competition. Her short stories have appeared in various publications and anthologies, most recently “Blood Sisters” in the Shadow Atlas: Dark Landscapes of the Americas (Hex Publishers), “Observer Dependent Universe” in the Chiral Mad 5 anthology (Written Backwards), and “The Oasis” selected for the Chromophobia anthology (Strangehouse Books).
Christa Wojciechowski is an active member of the Horror Writers Association and editor at Gamut Magazine. She loves to play Chopin (badly) and sip Hendrick’s gin. When she is not reading or writing, she can be found wandering the world, collecting new experiences.
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What are common traps for aspiring writers?
I have experienced many pitfalls as an aspiring writer. In addition to my own mistakes, I run a virtual writing group of aspiring writers at the writersmastermindgroup.com and watch their journeys. I also work as a digital marketer and book promoter for aspiring writers and have seen the same patterns. The traps are many. I will list the top 3 here.
Not writing: Most writers hem and haw, let self-doubt prevent them from writing. Many are not even aware that the reason they are not writing. Why is laundry and social media and checking our bank app suddenly is so important? We allow things in to take up space so we don’t have to fill the empty page.
Not preparing: I wrote a post about First-Time Self-Published Writers’ Syndrome on my blog. I see many writers approaching their writing career with a “lottery mindset.” They scribble out a book, feverishly upload it to Amazon, and wait for overnight success. Sometimes, they don’t even wait for a professional edit or proofread. When they don’t wake up on the bestsellers list, they give up. It’s not because they aren’t good writers. It’s because they didn’t prepare. Book launches are important, and authors must plan months in advance to make them successful. Take your book seriously.
Not promoting: Ongoing promotion is difficult for even the most successful and experienced authors. For introverts, it’s against all our natural instincts to self-promote. For extroverts, is still difficult to maintain the consistency of promotion to regularly sell books. But no one will know you or your book exists if you don’t put yourself out there.
I tell members of the Writers’ Mastermind to think of promoting as offering yourself instead of selling yourself. You worked hard. There are readers are waiting for your words. Speak your truth and they will find you.
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What if we could be the heroes we pretend to be? Revary by Abigail Linhardt
Genre: YA Epic Fantasy Adventure
In a small Midwestern town, Celeste and her friends find escape from the pressures of senior year through their tabletop roleplaying games. But when Celeste stumbles upon a way to actually enter their imagined realm, fantasy becomes a reality. Suddenly, the friends find themselves living out their greatest adventure. In Revary, they can be anyone they want: brave warriors, powerful mages, or cunning rogues. But as they explore this magical world of their own creation, they discover it is threatened by a mysterious force that is causing the fantastic world to vanish into darkness. With Revary in peril and tensions rising in their world, Celeste and her friends must navigate the blurring lines between imagination and reality. As they fight to save their creation, they’ll confront fantastical dangers and the real-life issues they’ve been avoiding. “Revary is a spellbinding journey that explores the power of friendship, the courage to face reality, and the magic of storytelling.” –ARC Review
Abi works part-time as a freelance ghostwriter, editor, audiobook narrator, and is one half of the partnership that owns Altered Reality Magazine. She hopes to one day make these passions her full-time job while she hunts for the next bohemian adventure. She has published works of fiction, poetry, academia, and even won awards for her short stories in science fiction and horror. Her novel, The Trial of Two, was named an Honorable Mention in the Writer’s Digest 2021 self-publishing awards and won first place in the dark fantasy category in The BookFest Awards. Abi is also a proud mom of ferrets. She currently resides in Kansas. She is one of nine children–all of whom share the creative spark.
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Standing up for magíq means the world stands against you.
Call Forth the Moonlight: A Magíqon’s Guide to Gryphon Liberation by Z.M. Celestaire Genre: LGBTQ Ecopunk Fantasy Romance
Deubrise is a land blessed by the breath of the slumbering gods. Magíq lives within nature, powerful and beautiful. Few else can harness it besides the gryphons that reside in the mountains near Nico De Falco’s home, and the rare magíqon like Nico’s little sister. But magíqon are shunned and feared by modern society. To protect himself from such treatment, Dr. Ackerleigh Sebring keeps his magíq a secret. Yet his “radical” teachings of magíqal history gets him fired from Ravensbourne University. Desperate, he finds a gamekeeper job caring for an imprisoned gryphon. Finally, he can be his whole self. That is, until Nico follows a misguided impulse and frees the gryphon, injuring Ackerleigh accidentally. Their fates—and feelings—become entangled in their determination to protect the sacred magíq of the gryphon. Ackerleigh and Nico will stop at nothing for the sake of liberation.
Z.M. (they/them) is a writer, artist, and therapist. Writing and art have been a hobby for some twenty years now since they were a goofy little middle schooler. Z.M. grew up devouring urban fantasy authors like Charles De Lint, Holly Black, and Patricia C. Wrede. Z.M. lives in Saint Paul with their spouse, human child, and fur children.
Enter to win a Swag Pack Tote with goodies! (US only), or a $10 Amazon Gift Card (WW) – 1 winner each! Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
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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.
For fifty-something Roxy Adams, the days are drenched in sunshine and a passion for her boyfriend, Sam Reyes. That is until he turns up dead in the trunk of Roxy’s limo and she’s arrested for his murder.
Changing Lanes A Roxy Adams Mystery Book 1 by Claire Yezbak Fadden Genre: Humorous Cozy Mystery, Romantic Suspense
For fifty-something Roxy Adams, life is simple and beautiful. Her days are drenched in southern California sunshine and passion for Sam Reyes, the man she loves and shares a business with.
When Sam vanishes with their savings, leaving only a note behind, Roxy is faced with a harsh reality. Broke and confused, she learns they never owned the business. The actual owner will let her keep her job if she provides him with benefits.
Convinced there’s no knight in shining armor riding to her rescue, Roxy dusts off her chauffeur’s hat and returns to the career she trailblazed twenty years earlier.
With a steady income, new friends, and the possibility of romance, joy slowly replaces insecurity. Foxy Roxy is back. Life is wonderful and exciting once again. Until Sam turns up dead in the trunk of her limo. And Roxy is arrested for his murder.
Pennsylvania-native Claire Yezbak Fadden lives in Orange County, California with her husband and two spoiled dogs. She spends her spare time playing with her four grandchildren and immersing herself in the words of other authors.
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Ten Quick Things about Claire Yezbak Fadden
Author of Changing Lanes
Born in: Pennsylvania Lives in: California
First Job: Self-serve shoe clerk
College Alum: San Diego State — Aztecs For Life!
Guilty Pleasure: See’s Candy, Nuts and Chews, of course
Favorite Movie: A tie: It’s A Wonderful Life and Mary Poppins Favorite Cocktail: Old Fashioned with Buffalo Trace Best Concert: Foreigner First Book To Make a Lasting Impression: Charlotte’s Web – read it when I was 12.
Life motto: Used to be: The shortest pencil is better than the longest memory. Now: Never time to do it right; always time to do it over. Runner up: Look back, but don’t stare.
This or That with Claire Yezbak Fadden
Pantser or Plotter
Romance or Mystery
Chocolate or Vanilla
Summer or Winter
Paperback or eReader
Morning or Night
White Wine or Red Red, a Cab if you please
Text or Phone Call
Barefoot or Sandals
Cash or Credit
Whiskey or Vodka
Butterflies or Ladybugs
Motown or Classic Rock
Silver or Gold
Lake or Beach
Steak or Lobster
Q&A with Claire Yezbak Fadden
Where do you get the inspiration from for your writing?
Like most writers, I draw my initial ideas from life happening all around – a news article in the paper might spark an idea for example. But when I sit down and begin putting words on paper, the characters tell me their story. I’m a pantser more than a plotter. I know where I want the story to go, but often my vision isn’t the same as my protagonist’s. I show up each day to find out what will happen next. Often, I will be writing a scene and things don’t come together the way I think they should in my mind. I revisit those pages in a day or so and usually discover: I had the wrong people in the scene and/or what I had the character doing/feeling wasn’t what he or she wanted. Sometimes, I discover that a scene I thought was necessary, the characters didn’t need at all.
“Changing Lanes” is your fifth novel. What are the best 3 tips of advice you can give to any newbies out there who can’t imagine finishing one novel, much less five… words of wisdom you wish you knew? when you began?
I’ve been fortunate to receive so much great advice from my writing friends. My first tip would be to get yourself a writing friend or two – find a trusted a critique partner who has been where you are or is there right now. Your spouse may love you, but no one understands the writing life like a fellow writer. It may take a few tries to find the right partner or writers’ group – just like it takes time to find Mr./Ms. Right. Joining a writers’ association –RWA, Women’s Fiction Writers Association, and others, is a great place to start. November is NaNo (National Novel Writing Month) – you might find some local, like-minded writers taking the challenge.
Second tip: I’ve finally embraced showing up every day and writing. (For years I denied this bit of genius, the same way I used to discount ‘eat less-lose weight’). You hear this advice from lots of accomplished authors because it is true. There are days when cleaning the dust bunnies under the bed is a more attractive option than writing even 100 words. I try to sit at my desk at approximately the same time each day and see what spills out. Surprisingly, most of the time, the characters show up and lots happens. Even if you just sit there looking at a blank screen, you’re training your brain to get to work. And that’s a good thing.
Lastly, but maybe most importantly, don’t be your own editor. I’m not referring to grammar, spelling, punctuation. I’m talking about letting the words appear on the page, letting the story flow. Believe me, there will be tons of folks with their own opinion of what you should have done, could have done and need to change once you get your story finished. Often these kind critics have competing opinions. Stephen King said “write with the door open, edit with the door closed.” And he’s a man who would know.
In this book, we get to know Roxy Adams, a fifty-something woman who’s been dumped by her boyfriend. And her sidekick, Alma Sanchez, a sassy thirty-something disc jockey. Are these characters based on any one you know?
Anyone who’s ever fallen in love runs the risk of getting dumped. That’s happened to all of us at one time or another. So yes, there is a bit of Roxy inside of me. But more importantly, I admire her courage and bravery at starting her life over as she moves toward her sixties. As for Alma, I think she’s the BFF every woman wants. Alma tacitly gives Roxy approval to tackle truths that ultimately lead Roxy to the secure, peaceful life she seeks. .
Writers have a “process” – some like Scrivener, others use word. Some need music, others need silence. Tell us what it looks like when you sit down and wake the muse for writing.
My process seems like a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle and I only have about 100 pieces so far. Every day, month or year, another piece drops in my lap or is uncovered. So far, what seems to work (in addition to bum glue) is having a dedicated space where I can leave my notes, research and bits of paper splayed across my desk. The next day everything is waiting for me, seamlessly allowing me pick up the story where I left off. I mentioned earlier that writing every day at the same time is immensely helpful. When you’re a writer, other folks don’t seem to understand that this is work. I write early in the day, so I’m able to accomplish a lot before other life demands of seep under my office door. Another reason I write early in the day is the quietness. Peacefulness, before the trash trucks start clanging, works better for my mind.
What flavor margarita do you like? This might be my favorite question. I’m a purist. Give me a Cadillac margarita on the rocks – no salt and I’m your friend for life. No fruity flavors. Same with my tea, no raspberry stuff – black tea, neat.
What can we expect from you in the future? Right now, Roxy Adams and her friends are drawing me into another mystery, but the details are vague at the moment. I enjoy writing humorous cozies and Roxy is an unforgettable character. I’m curious to see what trouble she’ll get herself tangled up in.
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.
The discovery of a sword confirms the Gods are once again readying for war, forcing their chosen heroine to decide between loyalty or betrayal and face daemons of her making.
The Bard Dragonslayer Book One by Jules Cory Genre: Epic Fantasy Adventure, Swords and Sorcery
A thrilling fantasy novel of magic and ancient pagan beliefs. The first volume in an epic trilogy set in a land of dragons and sorcery. Character-led fiction which explores the bonds of friendship and how they can be broken.
The discovery of a sword that had been lost for generations confirms that the Gods are readying for war once again. The sword holds the secrets to powers thought lost forever. It heralds the return of a Dragonslayer, capable of protecting humankind from the wrath of the ancient deities. But there is a problem. The sword-bearer is a seven year old girl.
Tallen learns quickly how to negotiate the politics of the royal court as she tries to find a place for herself in the capital city. She discovers a talent for being invisible in crowded places. Infiltrating restricted areas. And stealing precious items. But when her skills are commandeered by the King, she finds herself in a world of magick where her latent talents are being fought over. Unaware of her magickal ancestry, she is unprepared for the secret plots to control her and her powers. Schemes, by both friend and foe, that send her into danger.
The discovery of the Empathy Crystal forces Tallen to confront her ancient blood-line and the powers lying within her. She finds herself caught in the middle as the fault-line between the old pantheon of Gods and the new monotheistic religion cracks open. The war between neighbouring kingdoms covers the underlying battle for the power locked within the land they are fighting over. And the souls of the people living there.
After leaving the royal court, Tallen finds herself drawn back to the politics of a kingdom increasingly beset by war. The return of her father’s sword comes at the price of reclaiming her heritage as a Dragonslayer, while the stakes for both her personal and her prince’s freedom are becoming increasing costly.
Sent on a covert mission from her king, Tallen travels to obtain information regarding the stolen Empathy Crystal. However, Tallen soon discovers that there are other plans for her that involve her bloodline and her claim to a potentially lethal weapon. The journey becomes increasingly dangerous as others scheme to control the destructive potential of her Dragonslayer ancestry, resulting in battles with pirates and northern raiders. Her personal enemy, Villermir, is also never far from causing trouble as he learns to control the Empathy Crystal, harnessing its devastating force to crush her.
While the monotheistic patriarchy of Baila extends its tendrils into the souls of new believers, daemons and the old Gods start to take a more active role in the lives of men. Tallen finds wonders and miracles hidden in her Empathy bloodline, and a strength and resilience in her Dragonslayer blood. But dark shadows are now gathering that will require further exploration of her magical inheritance.
Faulknar is losing the war against Lindvane, with Gallowgla and Hilman joining the fight against the kingdom. Villermir has gained mastery of the Empathy Crystal and is using it to corrupt and despoil the land. Monsters that the Dragonslayer and her dragon were created to destroy have returned to rampage across the Three Kingdoms. Having been exiled from Faulknar as a traitor, Tallen tries to hide from her responsibilities and recover from the betrayal of those she trusted. The events within the Three Kingdoms, however, will force her to return to those she rejected and the kingdom she turned her back on. As her powers grow, dark forces swirl around her to claim those powers for themselves with enemies from her past, as well as her Goddess, seeking to use her to realise their own ambitions. Tallen must learn to trust those who would help her and embrace her powers, knowing her greatest challenge may come from the darkness that lies within herself. The Druid brings Tallen’s story to a violent conclusion, forcing her to face her fears as she fights to protect those she loves.
As a veterinary nurse, Jules has often eased the stresses of her canine and feline patients with stories of myth and magic, wizards and dragons. She had published chapters in academic textbooks and professional journals, but has traded the scientific formula and Harvard referencing for the creative freedom of writing fantasy novels. The Dragonslayer series follows Tallen as she discovers what it means to be a Dragonslayer, pawn of her king and the Gods, having to navigate between friendship and betrayal, power and corruption, life and death.
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What inspired you to write the Dragonslayer series? Sometimes random events can be the inspiration for stories and this is certainly true for the Dragonslayer series. There were three items that provided the nexus for the story to revolve around.
The first item was seen when passing a small second-hand shop with a painting in the window. Although I was drawn in by the scene, it was more than I could afford at the time so I walked on. I resisted for 10 minutes before returning to the shop and buying the painting. That view became Cloud Mountain and the setting for the cottage by the lake. The second item was given as a present – a duck-egg blue and rose coloured dragon, curled with its head resting on its tail. The statue is included in the books as my dragon, waiting for her slayer.
The last item was obtained as a chance finding when sheltering from a summer rainstorm in a nearby shop. The print was of a raven-haired woman holding a sword containing an orange dragon’s eye – and my heroine, Tallen, looked out at me from that picture. Polytheistic religions and the possibility of magic has always interested me, and I took those elements, added the three chance items, and wove it all into an epic adventure.
What are the key messages in the series? I think the key messages within stories are personal to those that read them and bring their own experiences, filtering the characters’ journeys through their own needs at any given moment. And, as such, this can change over time.
However, for me, I think one of the predominant issues facing Tallen and her friends is one of loyalty. Of having to balance duty, obligation and expectation with the desire to keep people safe and maintain treasured relationships. And this can involve different people who have very different ideas about what loyalty and obligation mean.
One of the factors that developed over the three books is that of fathers and what that can mean in differing contexts. There are a number of father-figures in the books. Some are blood-relatives, while others have found themselves in the position by chance. The interplay between nurture and legacy in shaping someone who depends on you was an interesting theme to play with, for both protagonists and antagonists.
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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.
Someone—or something—wants Kellen out of town . . . Kellen Brand’s inheritance comes as a monumental shock—a rundown farm she doesn’t want and one paroled Watcher all her own.
Cowboy Watch The Watchers Book 1 by Petie McCarty Genre: Paranormal Small-Town Romantic Suspense
The Watchers Series—Fallen angels cast out of heaven by the archangel Michael for coercing with Satan to gain control. Some of these turncoats—duped late in the game by Satan’s lies—doubled back to seek redemption for their unwitting betrayal. Offered parole in exchange for penance, these Watchers are given the toughest bodyguard missions with little leeway for success. One last chance. These are their stories . . .
Someone—or something—wants Kellen out of town . . .
Kellen Brand’s inheritance comes as a monumental shock—a rundown farm she doesn’t want and one paroled Watcher all her own. Kellen’s eccentric mother believed Watchers to be fallen angels seeking penance by guarding individuals who had lost their way. Seriously? A Watcher? Only her mother . . .
Since Kellen vows no sane woman would choose to live in Riverside, she’s on a mission to dump the old farm fast and to the first buyer who comes along. Unfortunately for her, the only buyer is a resort developer, spurned by a townful of objectors and one handsome cowboy—her neighbor, Luke Thornton. Luke must block Kellen’s farm sale or risk exposure of his own family’s secrets. He can ill afford his immediate and compelling attraction to his new neighbor.
Someone is watching Kellen, but not who she thinks. Someone deadly and intent on scaring her out of town. Or worse. Luke has a hellish choice to make—step in and rescue Kellen from her threats, or to protect his family, stand by and watch . . .
Petie spent a large part of her career working at Walt Disney World—”The Most Magical Place on Earth”—where she enjoyed working in the land of fairy tales by day and creating her own romantic fairy tales by night, including her new series, The Cinderella Romances. She eventually said good-bye to her “day” job to write her stories full-time.
These days Petie spends her time writing new Cinderella series tales, her new The Watchers series, sequels to her regency time-travel series, Lords in Time, and more contemporary romance standalones to go along with her two previous releases—Any Fin For Love and Ambush in the Everglades.
Petie shares her home on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee with her horticulturist husband and an opinionated Nanday conure named Sassy who will make a cameo appearance in the upcoming Book 2 of The Watchers series, Christmas Watch.
Would you like a chance to win either an Autographed copy of Any Fin for Love by Petie McCarty (US only) or a $20 Amazon gift card (WW) – 1 winner each! Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
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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 not-always-sentimental vacation to the ’50s, ’60s, ‘and ’70s. Bring your swimsuit.
Downeyoshun by Art Young Genre: Recent Historical Family Fiction
Sally Osterhoff is a genius. When she grows up, she wants to be a mathematician, a teacher, and a carpenter; and she plans to swim in the 1968 and 1972 Olympics.
Her mother has other ideas, and will emotionally and physically abuse Sally to fit them. After all, she only wants what is best for her child. But between her father trying his best, the family next door who practically adopts her, and her Aunt & Uncle down in Ocean City where she spends her summers, Sally just might have the support and love she needs to make all of her dreams come true.
Set against the backdrop of the Civil Rights struggles, the Vietnam War, and the early Feminist movement, the story explores the power of found family, and how unconditional love can come from the least expected places. Downeyoshun is a not-always-sentimental vacation to the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s. Bring your swimsuit.
Praise about the book: “Arthur Young will introduce you to a special world, East Baltimore, and its vacation spot, Ocean City, with his warm Downeyoshun. Not that life is perfect – not all mothers are kind, and the VietNam war casts a shadow. But you’ll feel as if you’ve met new friends as you follow his characters through the challenges of growing up. In his skillful telling, the fabric of a family and a neighborhood comes to life. You may even find yourself becoming a Baltimore Hon!” –Pamela Zerba, Contributor Atheists in America, Writer, Creative York Contest Winner
“Be prepared to fall in love with one of the most endearing literary characters of the century thus far. Ultimately, this is a book about family, the one you’re stuck with and the one you make. By the end, Sally will feel like part of yours. You will thoroughly enjoy your trip Downeyoshun.” -Robert Akridge, Writer
Art Young is a Baltimore-born U.S. Navy / Vietnam / Agent Orange veteran and cancer survivor. He was once a carny in a traveling gadget show, and has worked as a fire-extinguishing-system installer and serviceman, a brewery’s route delivery salesman, flexographic press operator, licensed boiler-plant engineer, and a storyteller. He much prefers the last.
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.
Tales of adventure, friendship, self-confidence and teamwork for all ages.
Sharky and the Jewel The Deliverers Book 1 by Gregory S. Slomba Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy Adventure
WINNER of the Golden Wizard Children’s Book Award 2024! NOMINATED for The Book of the Year Award 2024 in the Ages 8+ Category.
A world is in trouble, who can save it?
Certainly not Eric Scott, a 12 year old boy coming to grips with his own personal tragedy. But that’s exactly what Stig, an owl from another world, asks him to do. Together, they are sent to deliver Calendria, a small fishing village, from Sharky, an immortal pirate captain that has enslaved them. But defeating Sharky and his band of bloodthirsty pirates will be no easy task.
When they arrive, Eric and Stig meet Kate Endria, who is convinced that they are the Deliverers—heroes of an ancient prophecy who are destined to defeat Sharky and his crew. Eric devises a plan that he hopes will work. Eric’s confidence rises when they rescue Hallo Tosis, an outcast dwarf who gives them the key to a powerful weapon. But it’s only after things start to go horribly wrong that Eric and Stig discover the true object of their mission.
THE GOLDEN WIZARD BOOK PRIZE REVIEW 2024:
This book is truly a masterpiece, showcasing the author’s incredible talent on every single page. Slomba’s writing style…blurs the boundaries between fiction and reality, immersing readers completely in the story.
The protagonist, Eric, is exceptionally well-crafted. As the plot unfolds, we witness his remarkable journey of self-discovery, gradually uncovering his inner strength and determination. This evolution of the character adds depth and relatability to the narrative, allowing readers to form a personal connection…and reminding us of our own untapped potential.
What else sets this astounding literary piece apart is its ability to resonate with a wide range of readers. It surpasses age boundaries, entrancing not only younger readers but also adults who will find themselves completely absorbed in its pages. The allure of this book is undeniable, and personally, I found it to be an absolute delight to read. I am eagerly looking forward to the next installment in the series, excited to continue the journey.
“The Deliverers: Order of the Crystal Lion proved to be even better than the first book in the series (which I loved) and left me wanting the next book right away! The action was non-stop and the creative elements made the story come alive. The story was full of surprises and is an adventure you don’t want to miss!”~Stephanie Robinson, co-author of The Secret DMS Files of Fairday Morrow
“The writing in this book is so descriptive…Every page is a fabulous adventure filled with action. Just when you think the conflict is over and you can finally breathe a sigh of relief – wham! – a new unexpected twist appears.”~Karen Pokras Toz, author of the award-winning Nate Rocks series.
Who will fight–for the Order, for freedom? For centuries, the Vynistri have been splicing lion DNA to the genes of their servants, the Chazum, using a device called the Machine. Now an army of Chazum and sympathetic Vynistri are waging a bloody civil war to overthrow the Vynistri’s evil ruler, Chancellor Trelango. In their latest Assignment, the Deliverers–Eric Scott, Stig the owl, Kate Endria and Hallo Tosis the dwarf–are charged with putting an end to the fighting and restoring balance to the world. Aided by a secret society called the Order of the Crystal Lion, Eric and the rest of the Deliverers must overcome tragedy and loss to fight for freedom and equality. Spurring them on is the Order’s belief that the long awaited Crystal Lion has arrived to deliver the world. Is it true, or will Trelango destroy them all?
“From the mouth thou shalt hear The wisdom of far off lands. The way to truth is clear Head, then heart, then hands. Lastly, tail will point the way To the world’s end. Then gold shall have its say And foretell the doom of men.”
With his dying breath, so spoke the last Dragon’s Voice. Now, with no successor to impart the wisdom of the mythical Golden Dragon of Ang and children between the ages of 12 and 15 mysteriously disappearing, the Dragon Islands have been turned upside down. It is up to the Deliverers—Eric Scott, Stig the owl, Kate Endria and Hallo Tosis the dwarf—to unravel the clues they hope will lead to the missing children and the new Dragon’s Voice. Meanwhile, the Fang, leader of the renegade Denchi Assassins, has harnessed the unearthly powers of the sparkling mist and is attempting to tip the balance of power in the Islands, and perhaps shred the very fabric of the universe itself. Will the new Dragon’s Voice be revealed, or has the Golden Dragon of Ang abandoned the Islands to the Fang and the sparkling mist?
That’s what Eric Scott always thought. But that was back before he learned about the Hallway of Worlds and the sparkling mist. Now, after three Assignments to save other worlds, he’s not so sure. When the Gatekeeper tells him someone might be using the mist—matter from failed worlds—to change the past on Eric’s world, possibility becomes probability.
In their fourth and final Assignment, the Deliverers—Eric Scott, Stig the owl, Kate Endria, and Hallo Tosis the dwarf—face a challenge like no other. They must prevent the worlds they have helped on their previous Assignments from being wiped out. They are sent back in time to the American Revolution to stop an unknown foe from using the sparkling mist to change history. Worlds, the Hallway and the universe as we know it, hang in the balance. Will the Deliverers be able to contain the sparkling mist once and for all, or will everything they have achieved so far be annihilated?
Gregory S. Slomba is an instructional designer, former editor, and the author of the award-winning Deliverers Series. He studied English at the University of Dayton, then worked as a banker for 20 years. He also spent four years as an editor and writer for a national trade magazine, giving him an opportunity to sharpen his writing and editing skills. Along the way, he was able to visit some fun places such as Bermuda, Spain, China, and over 60% of the U.S. states. He currently designs, writes, and delivers training courses for bankers. Reading fantasy and science fiction has always sparked his imagination. Inspiring the imaginations of young readers through his writing is what drives him. Greg lives in Connecticut with his wife, Stephanie and his two grown children, a golden retriever, and four cats.
Would you like a chance to win aSigned copy of Sharky and the Jewel (US only) or a $20 Amazon gift card (WW) – 1 winner each! Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
Deliverers Character Interviews: Captain Burt Sharky
Our Deliverers Character Interview Series continues with an interview with Captain Burt Sharky, the meanest, toughest, nastiest pirate to sail the high seas. This should be interesting. I hope he doesn’t pillage and burn the place!
Greg: Well, thank you for taking the time to sit down and chat with us, Captain Sharky.
Sharky: Argh! Aint no trouble at all matey. Every once in a while it’s good t’ get outta the water inta drydock an’ scrape the barnacles off m’ keel.
Greg: I can see how that would be necessary from time to time. Tell us a little bit about yourself, if you don’t mind.
Sharky: Well, I been at sea most o’ m’ life.
Greg: Oh, that’s marvelous. Did you start as a cabin boy?
Sharky: No, nothin’ like that. See, m’ old man were a pirate. When he spotted a ship he wanted to pillage, he and the rest o’ the crew’d get belowdecks and leave me on deck by m’self. I were only about 7 or 8, and I’d set to hollerin’ and whinin’ and carryin’ on. The target ship’d always come see what the fuss were about. They’d see me alone on deck, and I’d shout that everyone were washed overboard in a storm. They’d come over to rescue me, and m’ dad’s crew would overpower ‘em and board their ship. We took a lot of fat prizes that way.
Greg: Oh, how, umm, cute.
Sharky: Them were the days. ‘Bout the only happy times I can remember, ‘cept o’ course when I found m’ ring. Things started lookin’ up after that.
Greg: Your ring?
Sharky: Aye. I took it from a lubber one time when I was ashore. I’d lost m’ ship and I wanted the ring to finance a new one. I ran the dog through, an’ took the ring, but I couldn’t bring m’ self to sell it. Instead, I kept it and stole a merchant vessel.
I recruited a new crew, found a good island hideout, and set about plunderin’ vessels. I grew to be successful an’ set up a piratin’ empire. I was known throughout the world as the meanest, dirtiest, most rotten scoundrel to sail the high seas.
Greg: So I understand. What happened with Cal Endria and his group?
Sharky: Endria and his lilly livered dogs were nothin’ but cowardly sheep. They lost their stomach for fighten’ an’ wanted to settle down. I should of keel hauled the lot of ‘em. Instead, though, I decided that they could be useful in their own way.
I set up the Tariff where they had to give me half of everything they produced for a hunnert years. Then after the hunnert years had gone by, I double crossed ‘em. I came sailin’ in with a new weapon and kept chargin’ the Tariff twice a year for another two hunnert, until that kid an’ his bird came.
Greg: Hold on. Just how long have you been alive?
Sharky: I were born over 350 years ago. It were the ring, ya see. It give me long life and’great power. No one ever thought to double cross ol’ Sharky, because I beat Death hisself. Then along came that Eric brat an’ his bird. Arghhh, I can’t talk ‘bout it no more! Read the cursed book.
Greg: What do you like to do in your spare time?
Sharky: Oh, I don’t know. Terrorizin’ children an’ small animals, bullyin’, belittlin’, swearin’, carryin’ on, hangin’ swabs from the yardarm, the usual things, I s’pose.
Greg: Have you ever come across Captain Jack Sparrow?
Sharky: Arghhhhh! Don’t mention that name! The slippery eel still owes me his ship, the Black Pearl. I won it fair an’ square in a poker game, but he give me the slip when I were tryin’ to take possession. If he ever comes across me bow again, he’ll get a long, painful death, or my name ain’t Captain Burt Sharky!
Greg: How has the release of the book impacted your life?
Sharky: Are ya daft?! How has it affected m’ life? It’s ruined it ya lubber, that’s what it’s done! I can’t show m’self at any pirate meets. I get so mad, I could run someone through!
Greg: Well, on that note, I think it’s time to wrap this up. Thank you so much for taking some time to talk with us.
Sharky: How do I get out of this pigsty? I’ve got to get back to m’ ship. I’m thinkin’ of startin’ a ghost pirate crew. Mortals can’t stand ghosts!
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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.
Nina Soden 