Monthly Archives: March 2013

Sabrina Jeffries-Interview and Giveaway with the Author

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SABRINA JEFFRIES-Interview and Giveaway with the Author

Sabrina JeffriesAbout The Author: Goodreads

If having a colorful life turns you into a novelist, then I had no choice but to become a writer. My whole life changed when my parents moved us to Thailand when I was seven. Before I was eighteen, I’d eaten chicken heads and jellyfish, been chased by a baby elephant, seen countless cobras and pythons, had the entire series of rabies shots (yes, the ones in the stomach with those lo-o-o-ng needles), and played in rain forests and rubber plantations.

But if you’re wondering how the daughter of missionaries ended up a romance novelist, let me explain. When you’re in the boonies in a foreign country with only your pesky siblings for company, you read a lot. And I mean, a lot. I read everything—classics, children’s books, mysteries, science fiction, even comic books. Most of all, I read romances.

I cut my teeth on Cherry Ames novels, progressed to Grace Livingston Hill and Emilie Loring, graduated to Barbara Cartland, then got hooked on the hard stuff in college with my first Rosemary Rogers novel. I tried laying off the romances during my six years in graduate school, but it was fruitless. Woodiwiss and Lindsey beckoned.

Finally, I stopped fighting it. I tossed aside my Ph.D. in English and surrendered to the impulse to write a novel. And a romance writer was born! Now I live in North Carolina with my husband and son, where I write books full-time. Thanks to my colorful life, I have plenty of fodder for my novels, so I plan to be doing this for a very, very long time. Isn’t life grand?

FOLLOW Sabrina at : Website / Goodreads / Twitter/ Facebook / Pinterest

Interview-Black and Deep Rose

TRC: Hi Sabrina and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of BY LOVE UNVEILED.

Sabrina: Thanks so much!

TRC: We would like to start with some background information for anyone who does not know about Sabrina Jeffries. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Sabrina: I’m the New York Times bestselling author of thirty-five novels, five novellas, and three short stories (some under the names of Deborah Martin and Deborah Nicholas), as well as a caffeine addict, Third Culture Kid, chocoholic, and jigsaw puzzle aficionado.

TRC: Your bio states that you were raised among the rubber plantations of Thailand. Have you ever considered going back to Thailand for a visit or to live?

Sabrina: I’ve visited four times since I lived there, but I doubt I’d ever go back to live, since all of my family is now in the U.S.

TRC: What are some of your fondest memories of Thailand?

Sabrina: I loved the people and the food. I miss eating fresh mangoes off the tree, shopping in bazaars filled with imaginative jewelry and clothes, and swimming in the clear waters off the coast. I DON’T miss the Bangkok traffic or the tropical heat and humidity!

TRC: Many authors face challenges in writing or getting their books to publication. What are some of the difficulties you have faced in your writing career?

Sabrina: The main one was in finding my niche, which involved finding my true voice. It took me a while (and three pseudonyms) to settle on a style that suited me and that appealed to readers. My other issue was in learning to work around the tireless effort of raising an autistic child while also trying to build a career. In many ways, though, my son’s autism forced me to think outside the box in both my life and my writing. Who knows if that would have happened in other circumstances?

By Love UnveiledTRC:  BY LOVE UNVEILED is your latest (March 2013) release. Would you please tell us something about the premise of this historical romance storyline?

LINKS TO ORDER: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Sabrina: This is actually a revised reissue of one of my early Deborah Martin books. Unlike my Regency historicals, this is set in Restoration England. Miss Marianne Winchilsea is running for her life from those whom she believes have attempted to kill the king. Forced to disguise herself, she trusts no one—especially not Garett Lockwood, the Earl of Falkham, who usurped her family home and who seems to be her most dangerous enemy. And what Garett sees behind her masquerade is a beautiful half gypsy enrobed in mystery, deception, and burning secrets. A woman he should avoid at all costs. In a world where treachery and betrayal reign, a sweet seduction rules their hearts—and dares them to risk their destinies on a passionate love that all the powerful forces of the world cannot defeat.

TRC: You have some of the most beautiful and amazing covers for your books and novels. Do you have any say in the selection of models, style of dress or colors on the covers?

Sabrina: I do have some say, but Pocket gets all the credit for how beautiful they are. They truly have a wonderful art department. In the case of this cover, I did find a gorgeous Restoration corset and skirt on a site for costumes and I sent it in as an example of something they could use for the cover. And they did a gorgeous version of that! Sometimes I suggest ideas and such, but I’m not an artist, so they do the lion’s share of the design.

TRC: Is there one cover in particular that is your favorite?

What the Duke DesiresSabrina:  I have several. I really like THIS cover and the one for my upcoming book, What the Duke Desires (Pocket Paperback, July 2013). I adored the cover for Beware a Scot’s Revenge, especially the inside art. I really like the art for Avon’s Dance of Seduction cover (which they’re using in a fashion for the reissue as well, since it was so pretty and timeless). I can’t pick just one!

PRE-ORDER What The Duke Desires: Barnes and Noble / Amazon / The Book Depository

TRC: You face writer’s block or struggles with plot head on-working on puzzles 😉 Any idea on the number of puzzles you have completed to date?

Sabrina: No clue. I have 22 puzzles in my office right now waiting to be done a second time (I always redo a puzzle once before getting rid of it). So that’s 44, just in the past five years or so. And that’s not counting the ones I got rid of or passed on to my sister (doing puzzles is a family obsession, apparently).

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas with family and friends or, other authors. With whom do you bounce ideas and why?

Sabrina: I have three critique partners: Pam Ahearn (who is especially good at picking up on plot problems), Rexanne Becnel (especially good at picking up on conflict and sexual tension problems), and Deb Marlowe (especially good at picking up on character issues and historical accuracy problems). They’re all great in all areas, but I tend to gravitate to whomever is best in the area I need. And they do the same, I’m sure, although it’s a bit one-sided between me and my agent. *G*

TRC: What five things would you like to accomplish in the next ten years?

Sabrina: World domination, having a movie made of one of my books, having a book picked up for a TV series, trying my hand at a new subgenre, and losing weight. But I suspect these are unrealistic goals. *G*

TRC: We understand you like to be in front of a crowd. Have you ever considered a career in stand-up comedy? Speaking of comedy, who is your favorite comedienne or comedy actor?

Sabrina: I have, actually, but I’m not THAT funny, believe me. I have complete respect for how hard it is to be funny night after night. I have a lot of favorite comedians and comic actors: Eddie Murphy, Chris Rock, Tina Fey, Melissa McCarthy, Betty White, the entire cast of Big Bang Theory, Kristen Schaal, Kathy Griffith, and more others than I can count!

TRC: You have had a very successful and prolific writing career. Is there any subject that you will not address in your storylines or novels and why?

Sabrina: Not really. Maybe politics. I have strong political views, but I don’t feel that my role as a novelist is to stump for them. I’d love to have an autistic character, but that’s hard in a historical because you can’t convey what the person “has” by calling it autism. Although I am putting an Asperger’s character in the book I’m writing now. 🙂 But autism, severe autism, would be harder to characterize in a way that readers would recognize.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Sabrina: The second book in my Duke’s Men series, about a couple estranged for ten years, who find that their past isn’t at all what they thought.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Sabrina: Just that I appreciate the support of all my readers. I have some of the best readers around!

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food
Pizza, hands down!

Favorite Dessert
Anything melty and gooshy with chocolate in it. I’m not a cake person, so I prefer Chocolate Chess Pie and the like.

Favorite TV Show
Do I have to pick just ONE? Right now it’s probably Downton Abbey, but I love Castle and Bones and NCIS and a whole slew of other shows.

Favorite Movie
Do I have to pick just ONE? Pride and Prejudice would be a top contender, along with North and South (the BBC mini-series, not the Civil War thing)

Last Movie You Saw
Bridesmaids, maybe? I’m not sure.

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Dark!

Last Vacation Destination
England and Scotland, for my hubby’s 60th birthday

Favorite Flower
Gardenia, hands down. I love the scent!

TRC:  Thank you Sabrina for talking with us today at The Reading Cafe.  We wish you all the best with your upcoming novels.

Giveaway Black and Deep Rose

Sabrina is offering a GIVEAWAY paper copy of her June/July 2013 upcoming release WHAT THE DUKE DESIRES.

1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in please post your email address along with your comment.

3. Giveaway runs from March 13 to March 16, 2013

4. Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY.

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Calculated in Death by J.D. Robb – a Review

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Calculated in Death by J.D. Robb – a Review

calculated in death

Links to order Calculated In Death:
Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository / Kobo

Calculated in Death is another excellent book in J.D. Robb’s (Nora Roberts) wonderful In Death series.  Though this is the 36th novel in her series, I eagerly look forward to the next book, and just never get tired of reading about our Eve & Roarke, and team.  Calculated in Death starts off with the death of an accountant, which originally looked like a mugging, but of course, as Eve Dallas is called onto the scene, she knows right away, this is not a mugging, but a murder planned. 

The story is set in the financial world of accountants, audits, investors, etc.  Though this book has its normal multiple murders, many suspects, it is not as gruesome as some of the other In Death books.  We spend a lot of time early on, with Eve and Peabody investigating the crime scene, and questioning anyone who knew the victim, and by the time the day is over, they already know why the victim was murdered, and have their own list of suspects.   Did we expect anything less with Eve and Peabody?

It seemed like forever before our beloved Roarke came into the story, and when he did, life and the story got so much better.  Eve is a great detective, tough, smart, savvy, but it is Roarke who brings out her feminine and sexy side.  If you have read any In Death review by me, you will know I absolutely love Eve & Roarke together.  They are an awesome couple, and that never changes. 

The story moves quickly, as Eve deciphers the clues, with the help of Roarke.  The investigation does get somewhat complicated, within the financial aspects of the suspects, but we learn more, as Roarke explains much to Eve, and us.  I totally adore when the two of them work together at home to find the clues, as Roarke in between makes sure his cop eats, takes such loving care of her, and both take the time for their great sex. 

As usual, Eve and Peabody find themselves in danger, as the investigation hits close to home, and angers many of the high and mighty.  The world of accounting never looked more dangerous, especially with fraud and cover-ups. There are some surprises early on, with more deaths, as Eve and team race to find the killer before there are more deaths.  

In between this murder investigation, and there is the backdrop of the upcoming red carpet event of the premiere of the Icove video, we saw in the previous books.  Eve is never comfortable showcasing herself, even though her husband is one of the most powerful and richest men on any planet, but Eve will use this to her advantage.  Some of the fun is watching Eve dread the appearance of Trina to fix up her hair and makeup….humorous as usual.  It is also these types of events that allow us to see our old friends, like Nadine, Mavis, Leonardo.  Seeing Eve dressed to the max, and how Roarke is always helping choose her clothes is so much fun. I always enjoy seeing Peabody dress up too..such fun. 

This is what makes this series so special.  The wonderful recurring characters, who have become part of the In Death series, such as Peabody, Summerset, Mira, McNab, Feeney, Morris, Baxter, Trueheart, Reo, and our beloved Galahad (her cat who has saved her life twice).  As much as this series can be very violent, J.D. Robb has a masterful way of taking a very very tense moment, and making you suddenly break out into laughter, whether it be her byplay with Peabody or her confrontations with Summerset.  Another trademark of Robb is the sexual chemistry of Eve & Roarke.  They are the one of the most popular couples in the literary world, and my favorite.  Yet Robb does this so well, showing their chemistry, sexual, yet not erotic at all.  You see and feel their love, each and every time.

Calculated in Death is another wonderful edition to the In Death series, with an excellent and different storyline, and with the same exciting, dangerous, and complex murder investigations.  To be able to spend time with Eve, Roarke and their team always makes this series so fresh and enjoyable to read.

Reviewed by Barb

 

 

 

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Catching Up with Erica Hayes

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Catching Up with Erica Hayes
ehay-283_sm
The Reading Cafe is thrilled to welcome back Erica Hayes.

Erica’s newest release, Redemption was released last week.  She is here to discuss this second book in her Seven Signs series, as well as what else we may have to look forward to in 2013

Let’s talk to Erica.

 

Hi, Erica.  Thank you for taking the time to revisit us at The Reading Cafe, to discuss your new release “Redemption”, as well as to give us an update as to what you have in store for us in 2013.

Erica: Thanks for having me back! It's great to be here.

TRC: Redemption is scheduled to be released tomorrow.  This is your 2nd book in your Seven Signs series.  For those who many not have read this series, would you please give us a brief description of the premise of the series?

Erica: In near-future Manhattan, a gang of fallen angels must stop demons from hijacking the seven signs of the Apocalypse and bringing on the end of the world.

That's the basic premise of the series. In book 1, REVELATION, the angels discover a plot by the Demon King to bring on the End and release Satan from the pit, with the ultimate aim of creating Hell on earth. The hero, Luniel, teams up with Morgan, a forensic pathologist, to stop a zombie plague in Manhattan and defeat the Demon King's servants. Action and hot romance happen…

But the first Sign is done. The demon Apocalypse is still on track. And that's where book 2 kicks in…

RedemptionTRC: Redemption (released March 13th) is the second book in this series.  Would you please give us a brief description of this book?

Erica: Having dispatched the zombies (is that a spoiler? Yeah, I guess it is… but otherwise they'd all be dead, and there'd be no book 2…) our heroes must now deal with the next Sign: vampires, infesting Manhattan with their demon-corrupted curse. Stopping the vampire plague – by killing the unkillable demon prince who’s spreading it – falls to Japheth, a cold fallen angel warrior who's sworn off every kind of sin – especially love – in an effort to win his way back into heaven. But when he meets Rose, a tough and beautiful vampire with a grudge against angels, sparks fly...

And yeah. Action and hot romance happen 🙂 again!

Links to order Redemption: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository / Kobo

TRC: You released a new book in December, Dragonfly.  Can you tell us a little bit about this book?  Is this a standalone book, or the start of a new series?

Erica: Ooh, I love this book! Spaceships, secret agents and rayguns.

DRAGONFLY is my first sci-fi novel, about an interstellar secret agent who's hunting the terrorist who killed her fiance. It's cool, fun space opera with a splash of romance. Nothing to do with any of my other series. If you enjoy sci-fi adventure, such as Stargate or Firefly – or even if you're a kick-ass-chick urban fantasy fan – you'll like this one!

I was stoked to get an award nomination for this book from Australian Romance Readers, for Favourite Sci-fi/Futuristic/Fantasy Romance of 2012. That's so cool! It's also my first digital-first publication, which is exciting. You can see more about it and read the first few chapters here: http://www.momentumbooks.com.au/books/dragonfly

TRC:  Sounds great, can’t wait to read it.  🙂

TRC: Hellcursed, a prequel to your Shadowfae series, was released in December.  It is now free on Nook, Smashwords, Kobo and Itunes.  What made you decide to do a prequel, and will you write more in this series?

Erica: HELLCURSED is a little story that I've had kicking around for a while. It tells the tale of Jade, the heroine from SHADOWFAE, the night she was made into a succubus. I thought it'd be fun for readers to see how that came about. It's a dark and erotic interlude. Needless to say, things don't turn out well for Jade, who's in thrall to her demon lord for a thousand years.

It's only a very short story, so it’s free. Do check it out, if you'd like a quick intro to my Shadowfae series. http://www.ericahayes.net/hellcursed.html

Just a quick warning, for romance readers everywhere: the novels in the Shadowfae series are romances. HELLCURSED is not – but the tone and mood is similar to that of the novels. And the sexy fairies. They're the same 🙂

As for more Shadowfae stories… well, I do have something in the works. Maybe. We'll see what happens!

TRC: Would you like to share with us what you are currently working on, and what you have in store for us in 2013?

Erica: This year, I’m working on some new stuff. I have a superhero WIP, and an historical fantasy. If I publish them, you guys will be the first to know 🙂

Also, I’m shortly hoping to publish a new short vampire romance called HUNTER’S HEART, the follow-up to my story HUNTER’S BLOOD. It’s about Colleen, a demon-slayer who falls for a dangerous shadow demon, Seth, the one man who can help her defeat her ultimate foe – but does Seth want Colleen’s heart, or just her magical soul?

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Erica: You guys are terrific. No, really. It’s a tough world out there for authors right now, and we love the support we get from bloggers and readers everywhere, whether we’re indie or traditional or somewhere in between. So thanks, to all of you!

TRC: Thank you, Erica for giving us an update on Redemption, as well as what we can look forward to in the 2013. It was a pleasure talking with you again, and we wish you good luck with Redemption.

Erica: Thanks! I hope you guys enjoy it!

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Redemption by Erica Hayes – a Review

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Redemption by Erica Hayes – a Review

Redemption

Links to order Redemption: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository / Kobo

Redemption by Erica Hayes is the second book in her Seven Signs series.  Below is a description of the series.

Description:
Japheth the Tainted is on the hunt for a mysterious demon vampire. But meeting her face-to-face might disarm his warrior spirit—and spark an unquenchable passion with apocalyptic consequences.

As a fallen angel, Japheth is determined to make his way back to heaven by staying pure and slaying hellspawn. With a new scourge of vampires unleashed by a blood-drinking demon, the Prince of Thirst, there’s plenty to be done. But Japheth is after one vampire in particular—the one they call the Angel Slayer.

Rose Harley never wanted to be a vampire, but the Prince of Thirst can turn even the kindest soul into a soldier of hell. Feeling abandoned by God, she stalks the West Village taking revenge on his angels—until she meets her match.

When Japheth and Rose encounter each other, the battle is fierce and charged with desire. But when they discover a common enemy—the Prince of Thirst himself—they form a dangerous alliance that could either cost them their eternal lives, or spark a love more powerful than heaven or hell

Review:

Redemption picks up not too long after Revelation ended.  This book belongs to Tainted Angel, Japheth, and our heroine in this story, Rose Harley.   Japheth is desperate to be accepted back into Heaven, as he has no idea why he was marked as tainted by Michael, the Archangel, thousands of years ago.  He fights demons with a vengeance, and has remained pure for all those years, so that he can prove himself. 

But then Japheth meets the Angel Slayer, a female vampire, who despite his hatred of vampires, begins to feel things he hasn’t felt since before he became tainted.  Rose Harley, is the Angel Slayer, sired by the demon Fluvium, who is the Prince of Thirst, and a very vicious villain.  Rose has been slaying Angels, to please Fluvium, and keep herself out of Hell.  When she and Japheth come across each other in battle, both feel the connection, which they both break away.  Japheth  later looks for Rose, and she is determined to bring Japheth to Fluvium, to save herself. 

Both are very angry and disturbed individuals, and they both fight the attraction, which is truly a bad idea, as he is a tainted Angel, and she is forbidden as a vampire. But Japheth temporarily marks her, to help him find Fluvium, who has one of the seven vials, that will be used to destroy humans.  Needless to say, over time the attraction gets stronger between them, and it is this that will make each of them privately try to save the other from sure death. 

There are so many twists at the end, and to avoid spoilers, I will say it was a very exciting and wild ending.  The story of Japheth and Rose was different then the first book, both were very violent, and despite their growing feelings, they treated each other badly for the most part.  Again, it is because of their desperation and dark lives, as they had forgotten how to have love, respect and kindness.  It was a nice but slow moving romance, but very dark.  I liked seeing them together, trying to help each other, but then came the darkness to take that away.  This was a good, and at many times a dark sad story of two lovers fighting the odds of bringing them together. 

As I said before, the ending was wild, exciting, and totally shocking.  Erica Hayes is a great storyteller, in a dark urban fantasy world. She also did a great job intermingling some of the other characters into a big secondary part of the story, that will surely continue in the next book.  I am now totally hooked as to what will happen to Jazia and Shax, as Hayes has created so many twists at the end.  I have to say though, I totally hate Michael in this series. Redemption was more of a dark story, with lots of action, violence, demons, and romance to lighten some of the dark.   I for one can’t to see how this will turn out.   

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Author

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Indigo Spell (Bloodlines #3) by Richelle Mead-a review

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Indigo Spell (Bloodlines #3) by Richelle Mead-a review

Indigo Spell

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

THE INDIGO SPELL (Released February 2013) by Richelle Mead is the 3rd book in the Bloodlines Series. How do I start on this review? It is a very hard book to review, because it was SO GOOD!! You might think, why would that make it hard? When the whole book is written well, full of endearing scenes and the emotion is so HOT, yes it is hard!! Some series start to falter in the middle, but this series has been consistent!! Strong, swoon-worthy emotion is hard to review, it must be read firsthand to be appreciated. Believe me, this book is full of action, new characters are introduced, a bad villain is uncovered and defeated, but the MAIN reason I love this series is the evolving relationship between Adrian Ivashkov and Sydney Sage. The swoon-o-meter goes off the chart during their interactions!!!

Things are awkward between our friends in Palm Springs. After their passionate kiss, Sydney leaves Adrian. She has years of Alchemist training, which has taught her that a relationship between a Moroi (good vampire) and human is strictly off-limits. Adrian being Adrian doesn’t give up, but says to Sydney, “If I keep loving you, maybe you’ll eventually crack and love me too”.

Adrian supports Sydney through everything that she goes through in The Indigo Spell. He is fun loving, never tells her what to do, and reminds her about her strength and power. He doesn’t mind when Sydney saves him! He is comfortable with who he is!! Sydney is still practicing her magic under the guidance of Ms. Terwilliger. There is a rogue witch in the Los Angeles area that is draining young women of their power and youth. Adrian and Sydney go undercover to warn young women. While at a college campus, they are forced to hang out at a fraternity party. When asked what fraternity he belongs to, Adrian answers A Y E, Alpha Yam Ergo!! Only Adrian can make a bad situation fun!! I WANT TO JOIN!!

A big part of the action, involves finding a rogue Alchemist, by the name of Marcus Finch. He tells Sydney some of the real truths about the Alchemists and these have her questioning her beliefs. Sydney uses her magic and wits to find evidence.

There are so many great interactions between Adrian and Sydney. When the powerful witch enters Sydney’s dreams, Adrian keeps her safe by doing the same. They have some hot and endearing dream visits! Who knew playing Monopoly could be so much fun, or *swoons * tabletops! I like that Sydney does not straddle the fence in this book. Finally, she makes up her mind!! Each interaction with Adrian makes her realize what she really wants and that is HIM!!!

This was a great book leading into The Fiery Heart. You know their love will not be easy, but I think that Sydney and Adrian will be able to handle any obstacle that comes in their way!! You know that it will be a wild ride!! I bet that between her brains and his charm, they will be a great match against anything!!

Once again!! TEAM ADRIAN!!!!!!!!!!

Reviewed by Jules

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Lynsay Sands-Interview and Giveaway with the Author

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Lynsay Sands-Interview and Giveaway with the Author

Lynsay Sands

Immortal Ever After is the 18th storyline in Lynsay Sands Argeneau Series. With her latest release we would like to introduce you to the author:

From her website: Click HERE for more information.

I love books. Reading books takes me away to other worlds and on grand adventures I just couldn’t have otherwise. Writing them does the same, but also lets me play God for a bit. I know that sounds weird, but when writing my stories, I decide who lives and dies, who succeeds or fails and so on. I can give the good guys the happy endings they deserve and be sure the bad guys lose and get their comeuppance. Unfortunately, that’s something that doesn’t always happen in real life.

Perhaps that’s why writers write. Maybe we writers are all secret control freaks, wanting to control the world. Or maybe we’re just dreamers lucky enough to be able to make a living at dreaming. Either way I love writing and would do it whether I was paid for it or not. But I’m very very grateful to be able to share these stories with you. I hope they help you escape your troubles and trials if only for a little bit, and I hope they make you smile…You can be certain I’m often chuckling myself silly while writing them. Enjoy!

Interview blue:black

TRC: Hi Lynsay and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of Immortal Ever After

We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Lynsay: Uhm… I was born in a small town in Southern Ontario where there were only 12,000 people, and spent a good part of every year on an island in the middle of the Great Lakes which had perhaps 500 people. I mention the island because I really think that growing up there is what turned me into a writer. Whatever inborn urge, skill, or desire I had to write was definitely fostered and nurtured in that environment. There was no TV on this island, at least we never had one there, and reading was my entertainment of choice. I read on the beach, on the cliff, on the boat, in a lawn chair, anywhere I could find a comfy spot. I got lots of fresh air with my romance. I also ruined several books along the way. Fortunately, my grandmother was a demon romance reader and always had a large supply to pilfer from while I waited for my soggy books to sun-dry. However, when I eventually did run out of books to read, I started writing…on the beach, on the cliff on the boat…LOL

TRC: Nano-technology is part of the premise of your best-selling ARGENEAU series. How did you come up with the idea and how much research was involved?

Lynsay: I stumbled upon a great idea for a book about a vampire but I just couldn’t bring myself to write a romance where the main characters were dead. I needed some sort of scientific explanation for my vampires’ existence so I hit the library and did research there as well as on the net in the latest scientific developments and nanos seemed to be the best explanation. I’m not sure how much research was involved. It’s been a while, but I do recall someone commenting that I should take a cot and move into the library. LOL.

immortal ever afterTRC: Immortal Ever After (March 2013) is the latest release in your ARGENEAU series. Would you please tell us about the premise of this storyline?

Lynsay: It’s about Anders. Many of you might recognize his name, as he is a rogue hunter that has appeared in a few books in the series, the most memorable of which would have been The Renegade Hunter. In Immortal Ever After he meets Valerie, a survivor who has escaped a rogue serial killer vampire only to land in Anders’ arms. He quickly discovers she could be the life mate he’s waited over 600 years for. The only question is… When Anders finally explains things to her, will Valerie be able to accept Anders for who he really is, or will she only see him as a bloodthirsty vampire like the monster she escaped.

Argeneau SeriesTRC: How many books do you have planned for the ARGENEAU series?

Lynsay: LOL… there was never a plan. The reason the series is still going is because to date I’m still coming up with new story ideas and readers are still enjoying the series. If either one of these factors change then the series would come to a halt.

TRC: If you could virtually cast the ARGENEAU series, which actors or models would best represent the main characters?

Lynsay: I get this question a lot and honestly I don’t know. I haven’t modeled my characters after any actors or actresses. Their character comes from an amalgamation of people I know; never just one, and they don’t look like anyone I know. They are unique so I wouldn’t be able to pick actors, at least none I can think of off-hand. Sorry!

TRC: The premise of the ARGENEAU series is set in and around the Toronto Ontario Canada area. What were the factors behind your decision to set the series in Canada’s largest city?

Lynsay: The main reason I put the series in Toronto is because I know the city. I won’t write about what I don’t know so rest assured if someplace is in one of my books as more than a pass through, then I’ve been there!

TRC: What five (5) things would you like to accomplish in the next 10 years?

Lynsay: Jeez, I don’t think I have that much I’d like to accomplish… LOL.
Well I’d like to get my renos done on my house because right now I feel really cluttered and disorganized with the way things are at the moment.
I’d like to go on a proper vacation of at least two weeks, as I haven’t had one of those in a very long time.
I’d like to settle into more of a routine with writing so it’s more regular hours like a nine to five thing.
I’d like to go to the biggest amusement park in the world. I love rides.
Other than that I’d like to be queen for at least a day or two. Ok, maybe three. After you’ve been queen then what more could you really accomplish after that? LOL

TRC: What challenges or difficulties have you faced in your writing career?

Lynsay: My first challenge was getting published which luckily I overcame.

I think every writer has bouts of writer’s block. Although frustrating you have to figure out where the block is coming from so you can get around it. Trying to write through the writer’s block just does not work. It’s like hurtling toward a car accident. You have to find a way around it or you will end up in a big pileup in the middle of your story.

TRC: BONUS QUESTION: Who or what is responsible for the selection of the book TITLES and COVERS for authors and their individual series?

Lynsay: My publisher is responsible for the covers although they do ask my opinion so if there’s a real problem with it then they will normally adjust it.
My publisher is the one that comes up with most of the titles, but I have come up with a couple myself that they liked.

TRC: Thank you Lynsay for taking the time to answer our questions. We wish you all the best.

Lynsay: Thank you for having me! I appreciate your thinking of me for an interview. Take care!

*****************

IMMORTAL EVER AFTER
by Lynsay Sands
Released February 26, 2013

immortal ever after

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository /

A kiss doesn’t mean eternity . . .

Valerie Moyer doesn’t believe in vampires—until she is kidnapped by a fanged psychopath! After escaping her bloodthirsty captor, she’s through with creatures of the night. Until she finds herself under the protection of the darkly handsome Anders. Not only is she expected to accept that Anders is immortal, but also that she is the woman destined to be his life mate!

. . . Or does it?

Anders felt a connection to Valerie from the moment he cradled her bruised body in his arms. But before he claims her, he must destroy the vampire who almost stole her from him forever. His job would be easier if Valerie didn’t fight him every step of the way. Still, Anders loves a challenge, and the green-eyed beauty is worth fighting for!

 

Giveaway-Blue:Black

Lynsay is offering a signed paper copy of IMMORTAL EVER AFTER for  giveaway.

1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Giveaway is open to USA /CANADA  and Europe only

4. Giveaway runs from March 11- March 14, 2013

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Rising Darkness (Game of Shadows #1) by Thea Harrison-a review

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RISING DARKNESS (Game of Shadows #1) by Thea Harrison-a review

Rising Darkness

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 2, 2013

In the hospital ER where she works, Mary is used to chaos. But lately, every aspect of her life seems adrift. She’s feeling disconnected from herself. Voices appear in her head. And the vivid, disturbing dreams she’s had all her life are becoming more intense. Then she meets Michael. He’s handsome, enigmatic and knows more than he can say. In his company, she slowly remembers the truth about herself…

Thousands of years ago, there were eight of them. The one called the Deceiver came to destroy the world, and the other seven followed to stop him. Reincarnated over and over, they carry on—and Mary finds herself drawn into the battle once again. And the more she learns, the more she realizes that Michael will go to any lengths to destroy the Deceiver.

Then she remembers who killed her during her last life, nine hundred years ago…Michael.

**********************

REVIEW: Have you ever wondered about reincarnation? Did you ever have a sense of déjà vu?

Well, that is how our heroine has felt most of her life. Mary’s dreams, both asleep and awake, take her to places that feel familiar and dark. But her dreams become reality when the voice in her head, tells her to run and run fast. Evil is waiting for Mary and soon the disembodied voice will be her only companion until a handsome stranger reveals that Mary is dying and her psychic spirit is a beacon for those hoping to destroy their kind.

Michael has been searching for his mate for over nine hundred years. Without his mate, he is only half of a whole; the other half to his soul is missing. When he finally locates the one, it will take some convincing on his part to prove to Mary that love truly transcends the centuries. As Mary’s memories return so too does the Deceiver-the darkness that threatens to destroy everyone and everything that Mary loves. Fighting as a team, Mary and Michael will join together in an attempt to thwart what evil has in store.

Michael and Mary’s relationship is slow to build. In fact, a good portion of the book is spent following Mary as she pursues the voice in her mind. Michael’s storyline introduces much of the background information regarding the premise of the series and more is revealed when Michael finally convinces Mary that they have always belonged together and together they would destroy the Deceiver.

I like that Mary did not accept Michael at face value and wasn’t willing to jump into bed, but then again, neither was Michael-the man knew that his mate needed time to understand the reality of their situation. I also liked that Thea did not drag out the angst and anxiety between the couple. It was a given that Mary and Michael belonged together so why prolong the inevitable book after book.

Thea Harrison has written a fascinating and amazingly detailed introductory storyline that spans the ages with well-developed yet vulnerable characters and richly detailed worlds. From ancient civilizations to current day native culture and rituals, Thea blends fantasy with science fiction, suspense with hope, hatred with love.

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Immortal Ever After (Argeneau #18) by Lynsay Sands-a review

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Immortal Ever After (Argeneau #18) by Lynsay Sands-a review

Immortal Ever After-large

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository /

About the Book: Released February 26, 2013

A kiss doesn’t mean eternity . . .

Valerie Moyer doesn’t believe in vampires—until she is kidnapped by a fanged psychopath! After escaping her bloodthirsty captor, she’s through with creatures of the night. Until she finds herself under the protection of the darkly handsome Anders. Not only is she expected to accept that Anders is immortal, but also that she is the woman destined to be his life mate!

. . . Or does it?

Anders felt a connection to Valerie from the moment he cradled her bruised body in his arms. But before he claims her, he must destroy the vampire who almost stole her from him forever. His job would be easier if Valerie didn’t fight him every step of the way. Still, Anders loves a challenge, and the green-eyed beauty is worth fighting for!

*********************

Review:

Immortal Ever After is a wonderful addition to the Argeneau Series. It opens with Valerie and several women having been kidnapped by a rogue vampire and being held in cages, only to be brought out for the rogue’s “indulgences”. We find out early on that Valerie is a strong and very capable woman when she manages to escape, and in turn, frees the other women who are being held. She is immediately taken into protective custody by a group that she assumes is part of mortal law enforcement. After all, vampires don’t really exist……………

Valerie is intrigued by the group that is protecting her, especially Anders. Tall, dark and handsome, and if truth be told, a little cranky. Anders very early on realizes that he can’t “read” or “control” her and wonders if she is truly his life mate. And, when his appetite returns after centuries, he comes to the realization that she is indeed his life mate. But, will she be able to accept him for what he is? After all, her first experience with immortals hasn’t been a good one………… Will she run for the hills or into Anders’ arms? You’ll have to read to find out.

Oh, how I love this series. In this installment, we get to see some of my favorites. Valerie is protected at Lucian and Leigh’s house. Lucian is the leader of the immortals’ council and leader of the hunters who find and dole out justice to the rogues. He is a hardass, until it comes to his life mate. Leigh is stubborn and VERY pregnant, and we finally reach the end of the pregnancy in this book. And, oh what a surprise!!! Sands writes with humor, and, yes, sometimes it’s even a little cheeky. This one had a bit of a more serious edge than some of the other books, but her trademark writing style shines through brightly. This series is a wonderful departure from the more dark series that I read and I always look forward to the next. This series is a must read for me, and if you give it a chance, it will be for you as well.

Reviewed by Vickie M.

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