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If You Want Me / If You Love Me (The Ashford Legacy 2 & 3) by Cassi Carver-Review and Giveaway

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If You Want Me / If You Love Me (The Ashford Legacy 2 & 3) by Cassi Carver-a review and giveaway

If You Love Me Banner

IF YOU LOVE ME
(Ashford Legacy #3)
by Cassi Carver
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

If you Love MeABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 23, 2014

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One city girl, one tough rancher…one tender temptation.

Men are way down on Carolyn Ashford’s list of favorite things, thanks to a billionaire father who’s all but disowned her, and an ex-husband who’s out to destroy her fledgling fashion start-up. When her ex takes his creepy behavior to a whole new level, she decides it’s time to get out of the Big Apple for a while.

Hiding out at Carter Halston’s Texas spread sounded like a good idea at the time, but now Carolyn’s not sure it’s wise to sleep under the same roof with the ex-military rancher. His mission-ready body, skill with a lasso, and gentleness with a newborn calf puts her at serious risk of giving in to temptation.

Carter has had some tough missions in his career, but none as difficult as watching over Carolyn Ashford. She’s the cutest, sexiest, most neurotic pain in the ass he’s ever laid eyes on. Carter knows a simple country boy doesn’t have much to offer an heiress, so he’s honing his focus to keeping her safe, even if his heart is telling him to keep her forever.

REVIEW: IF YOU LOVE ME is the third installment in Cassi Carver’s contemporary, adult Ashford Legacy romance series focusing on the Ashford family. This is wanna-be fashion designer Carolyn Ashford and former marine/ranch owner Carter Halston’s storyline. Set in ‘nowhere’ Texas, Carolyn is hiding out at Carter’s ranch while preparations for her upcoming divorce proceedings begin. With her violent and abusive ex-husband searching for her, Carolyn is hoping that her current location is too far away for her husband to find. IF YOU LOVE ME can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any pertinent information from the previous storylines is imparted where necessary.

The focus of the storyline is the building desire and attraction between our couple. Carolyn is from a well to do family but her relationship with her father has always been strained. As she ventures forth on her own, she discovers that there is more to Carter Halston than a cowboy-he is the man who promises to protect her –even from himself.

Carter is Rayna’s (If You Need Me) best friend and a man whose life experiences have forged a quiet, solitary man. Agreeing to protect Carolyn Ashford did not come with a warning about falling in love. He is a man who is afraid to act on his feelings and pushes away Carolyn on many occasions.

The relationship between Carter and Carolyn begins as friends but quickly moves to lovers. The sex scenes are sensual and erotic; Carolyn likes to ‘play’ and ‘ lightly experiment’ in the bedroom. The secondary characters include fellow ranch hands as well as Rayna and Kyle from book one IF YOU NEED ME – with it comes the familiarity of family and friends.

IF YOU LOVE ME is a fun, quick read-about 150 pages. There is no overt angst or anxiety about the impending danger, and any threat is wrapped up rather quickly-the abusive ex husband and his intent is almost an afterthought to the main story. Most of the focus was on Carolyn and Carter.

If you like a story with a little bit of sex, a little bit of romance and a little bit of suspense, then IF YOU LOVE ME and The Ashford Legacy series is for you.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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IF YOU WANT ME
(The Ashford Legacy #2)
by Cassi Carver
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

If You Want MeABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 24, 2014

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

Revenge wasn’t supposed to be this sweet…

Sara Castillo has sworn never to get sucked into the world of the rich and famous, not after billionaire Benjamin Swayne broke her heart and left her carrying the burden of their shared secret.

Now Sara has a successful career working with her dear friend, Kyle Ashford, and her life runs like a well-oiled machine—until Kyle chooses Ben as his best man. No way will Sara let the renowned bad boy turn Kyle’s bachelor party into a front-page fiasco. She’s going to plan the party herself…even if she has to blackmail Ben into agreeing.

Ben isn’t thrilled about working with a woman who’d like to shank him and dump his body in a roadside ditch. But he’s willing to let Sara meddle, if only to teach her a lesson. And if the scent and sight of his old flame still makes his head swim…well, tough.

After Kyle’s party is wrapped up, Ben may finally be able to put Sara in the past. That is, if their time together doesn’t convince them they have a future.

REVIEW: IF YOU WANT ME is the second instalment in Cassi Carver’s contemporary, adult The Ashford Legacy romance series. This is Sara Castillo and billionaire Benjamin Swayne’s second chance storyline. Although this is the second in the series, it can be read as a stand alone without too much difficulty. Any pertinent information from the first storyline is imparted where necessary.

The premise follows the rekindling of a relationship that was destroyed eight years earlier. Sara and Ben shared a secret-one that destroyed their love for one another and the relationship they desperately kept secret from the rest of the family. Now years later Ben and Sara will find themselves working side by side on Kyle Ashford’s bachelor party and old wounds will be re-opened.

The secondary characters include Rayna and Kyle from the IF YOU NEED ME as well as Sara’s and Kyle’s siblings. We learn more about the extended family, their connections to one another and the heartbreak Sara and Ben endured.

IF YOU WANT ME is a quick read (approximately 150 pages) with moments of heartbreak, misunderstanding and humor. Cassi Carver invites the reader into her imagination; her storylines; and the addicting Ashford Legacy Series. The sex scenes are sensual, intimate and moving.

Reviewed by Sandy

_______________________________

Series Spotlight Black and White

If You Need MeIF YOU NEED ME (The Ashford Legacy #1) by Cassi Carver

Click HERE for our review of IF YOU NEED ME

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 18, 2014

How far will she go for love?

Erotica author Rayna Sommers wears a daring smile in her publicity photos, but the truth would shock her legions of fans. The woman whose stories take readers on wild sexual adventures to exotic locales is terrified of the world outside her front door.

Isolation may be safe, but it’s also quite lonely until Rayna meets a charming fan online. Kyle is sexy, funny, everything Rayna desires, and soon their daily emails flare into sizzling-hot video chats. Too bad Kyle lives on the East Coast and Rayna on the West. For a woman who can’t even cross the street, much less the country, her dream of a life with Kyle is just too far out of reach.

Kyle has an even bigger problem than getting Rayna Sommers to step outside her comfort zone. He’s head over heels in love with her, but he hasn’t told her the truth. He’s really Kyle Ashford, billionaire heir to the Ashford empire. The owner of the company that’s about to shut her publisher—and her livelihood—down for good.

Product Warning

This book contains a sexy billionaire who knows what he wants, a housebound author who’d love to give it to him, and a special-needs pet hen that just might steal your heart.

About The author

Follow Cassi: Goodreads / Website/ Facebook / Twitter

Cassi CarverCassi Carver lives in sunny Southern California with two dogs, four kids, five chickens, and one very patient husband. She explores beautiful San Diego County for research (okay, for fun and relaxation) as often as possible. She’s never saved the world, but she keeps sexy boots on hand just in case the opportunity arises.

When Cassi isn’t busy plotting, writing, or exploring, she enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends, caring for pets, visiting the local animal shelters, drinking copious amounts of Diet Dr. Pepper, and watching sappy movies that deliver reliably happy endings.

 

giveaway

Cassi is graciously offering an ebook copy (Kindle or Nook)  of IF YOU NEED ME and IF YOU WANT ME to 2 (two) lucky commenters at The Reading Cafe. 2 winners will each receive both books.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) 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. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

4. LIKE us on Twitter

5. LIKE us on GOODREADS 

6. Like Cassi Carver on FACEBOOK

7. Giveaway is open to Kindle and Nook users

8. Giveaway runs from September 23-27, 2014

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If You Need Me by Cassi Carver-Review, Guest Post and Giveaway

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If You Need Me by Cassi Carver-Review, Guest Post and Giveaway

If You Need Me Banner

If You Need Me
The Ashford Legacy #1
by Cassi Carver
Release Date: March 18,2014

If You Need Me

IF YOU NEED ME (The Ashford Legacy #1) by Cassi Carver

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 18, 2014

How far will she go for love?

Erotica author Rayna Sommers wears a daring smile in her publicity photos, but the truth would shock her legions of fans. The woman whose stories take readers on wild sexual adventures to exotic locales is terrified of the world outside her front door.

Isolation may be safe, but it’s also quite lonely until Rayna meets a charming fan online. Kyle is sexy, funny, everything Rayna desires, and soon their daily emails flare into sizzling-hot video chats. Too bad Kyle lives on the East Coast and Rayna on the West. For a woman who can’t even cross the street, much less the country, her dream of a life with Kyle is just too far out of reach.

Kyle has an even bigger problem than getting Rayna Sommers to step outside her comfort zone. He’s head over heels in love with her, but he hasn’t told her the truth. He’s really Kyle Ashford, billionaire heir to the Ashford empire. The owner of the company that’s about to shut her publisher—and her livelihood—down for good.

Product Warning

This book contains a sexy billionaire who knows what he wants, a housebound author who’d love to give it to him, and a special-needs pet hen that just might steal your heart.

•••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: IF YOU NEED ME is the first storyline in Cassi Carver’s new contemporary, adult, romance, erotic novella series. This is billionaire Kyle Ashford and erotica author Rayna Sommers’s storyline. Rayna suffers horribly from agoraphobia and Kyle is the man with whom she has fallen in love. One problem-their relationship is long distance and they have never met each other in person.

The premise follows Rayna as her attempts to enter the outside world are fueled by Kyle’s promises of nightly forays into the world of online sexual seduction. As Rayna’s fears continue to hold her hostage it will be Kyle who is willing to cross the country in order to make their relationship more permanent. But Kyle is withholding some important information about his personal and private life and when Rayna discovers the truth, their relationship will be destroyed by betrayal and heartbreak.

Cassi Carver has ventured into the fast paced world of the young heir to a billion dollar enterprise who needs something more in his life and an intriguing storyline about one woman’s inability to overcome the past. The characters are colorful, relatable and you feel the emotional pain and embarrassment for a woman who is lost in a world of phobias and fears. The majority of the storyline focuses on the building relationship between Rayna and Kyle, albeit, a relationship that begins under the guise of online anonymity.

What started as acquaintances to friends will quickly develop into lovers who believe that each other is the one. The reader is pulled into the heart pounding fear of a phobia that is little understood while a man sets into motion everything that he hopes will bring the woman he loves into the world outside.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Guest Post

Good Books and Fuzzy Buddies
By Cassi Carver

Hello, my friends! Thank you for visiting me today on The Reading Café! I’m so excited to tell you about my new release, “If You Need Me,” the first book in The Ashford Legacy, and give you the opportunity to win one of three digital copies—so stay tuned for how to enter to win below!

BrattyFirst, let me just say, I am a huge animal lover! I was born into a home with pets, and I’ve never been without one (or ten) since. So when I was writing my spicy contemporary romance novella “If You Need Me,” it should have been no surprise when a special-needs Silkie hen named Bratty suddenly popped onto the page—especially when I had my own Bratty right here at home.

I’ll admit it: I love books with animal sidekicks whether I’m reading historical, paranormal, or contemporary romance! I had read books with animals before, of course, but I remember the first time I clued into the fact that this was a “thing.” I saw “Animal Magnetism” by Jill Shalvis on the bookstore shelf, and it struck me that here was a cover not with a hero and a heroine embracing, but with a hero embracing a puppy! If there’s anything that can make my heart melt, it’s a hot guy holding a sweet dog. What woman can resist?

Even so, Bratty wasn’t planned as a character—she just happened. And once she strutted into the story, she was there to stay. My own Bratty was a cross-beak Silkie hen, and cross-beak birds don’t generally live longer than two years. I made her special wet food every day, and because she had to rely on humans to eat, she was the sweetest of all my birdy babies and definitely the one with the most plucky personality!

Maybe I should be embarrassed, but I actually dedicated “If You Need Me” to Bratty. The dedication reads, “For Bratty. Now you’ll live forever baby.” And when I wrote that, I knew she didn’t have forever, but I had no clue that we would lose her the day after Christmas 2013. But when I reread “If You Need Me,” I smile at getting to spend a little more time with a very sweet and sassy girl.

Books two and three of The Ashford Legacy, coming out in June and September 2014, also have some fun animals making special appearances—a naughty skunk and a border collie up to no good—but unlike Bratty, those animals came straight from my imagination.

So now it’s time to comment and be entered to win one of three digital copies of “If You Need Me”! I would love to know, if you could pick one animal from your past or present to put in a novel, which would it be? And if you want extra bonus points in my heart, I’d love to know what was special about that pet!

Thank you for visiting and commenting, my friends! I hope you get to cuddle up with a good book and a furry or feathery buddy today! I know for me, I couldn’t do without them!

Cassi

 

 

About the Author

Follow Cassi: Goodreads / Website/ Facebook / Twitter

Cassi CarverCassi Carver lives in sunny Southern California with two dogs, four kids, five chickens, and one very patient husband. She explores beautiful San Diego County for research (okay, for fun and relaxation) as often as possible. She’s never saved the world, but she keeps sexy boots on hand just in case the opportunity arises.

When Cassi isn’t busy plotting, writing, or exploring, she enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends, caring for pets, visiting the local animal shelters, drinking copious amounts of Diet Dr. Pepper, and watching sappy movies that deliver reliably happy endings.

 

Giveaway

Cassi is giving away an ecopy of IF YOU NEED ME to three (3) lucky commenters at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) 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. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY

6. Giveaway runs from March 24 to March 28, 2014

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Cassi Carver-Guest Post and Giveaway

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Cassi Carver-Guest Post and Giveaway-Dark Flight (Shadow Slayers #3)

Guest post-Black and White

Do Readers Matter?

Hello, everyone! Thank you so much for visiting me on The Reading Café today!

I’m an author. You probably figured that with the fact that I have a book coming out next week. And as an author, there’s one thing that’s often on my mind. Want to take a guess? Do you think it’s plot? Characters? Story arcs? Conflict? Yes—all of those. But did you know that some writers think about readers almost as much as they think about the elements of writing?

Shadowslayers


Is that weird? I don’t think so. Because readers matter.

And it’s not just because readers are the people who buy our books and with their purchases determine whether an author can make a living at writing or simply pursue it as something fun on the side. They matter because without readers, stories aren’t truly alive.

ReadingI was talking to a friend last week (And her name rhymes with Lisa Kessler. Okay, I’m not fooling you. Her name really is Lisa Kessler.), and she mentioned something that really impacted me. Lisa said, “No matter how much I love a book I’ve written, it doesn’t truly come alive until someone reads it. The readers breathe the life into the book… It’s magic!” And when I heard that, I realized how true it was for me as well.

I love writing. I love telling stories and creating worlds. I know I should want to write even if no one reads my work. But the truth is, sharing my stories with readers, hearing what they think, it’s my greatest honor and my greatest thrill.

Even when it comes to reviews—which some writers insist an author shouldn’t read for her own mental well-being—I can’t help but be invested and want to know what a reader thinks. I try not to let reviews change my future story arcs too much, but if I see a pattern that several people have pointed out, am I willing to fix it? Absolutely! Why, you ask? Because I feel like the readers and I are in this together. We’re both invested. If I cut myself off from caring just to avoid the pain of the occasional bad review, I’m also cutting myself off from one of my greatest sources of joy.

KeyboardThis past month several readers have really encouraged me just by being enthusiastic about my work. I wish there was a way to tell them how much it means without being too cheesy or looking like I was trying to get them to buy the next book. So what I want to say is simply this: Thank you, Readers. You matter. You really, really do.

As an extra thank you, comment below to be entered to win one of two free digital copies of my upcoming release, Dark Flight—Book 3 in the spicy urban fantasy Shadow Slayer series.

Virtual hugs all around, and I hope to connect with you soon on Facebook or Twitter!

Cassi

About The Author Black and White

Cassi Carver

A little about me:

I live in sunny Southern California with two dogs, four kids, five chickens, and one hubby who gives great massages. I get to the Gaslamp for research (okay, happy hour) as often as possible. I’ve never saved the world, but I keep sexy boots on hand just in case the opportunity arises.

When I’m not busy plotting and writing, I enjoy reading, spending time with family and friends, caring for pets, getting outdoors, and trolling makeup counters for that elusive shade of eye shadow and lip gloss that will finally bring me lasting cosmetic fulfillment.

Follow Cassi: Website / Goodreads / Twitter / Facebook /

Giveaway Black and Orange

Cassi is offering an ecopy of DARK FLIGHT to two (2) lucky readers at The Reading Cafe.

Dark flight

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.  Please post a comment and say hello to Cassi.

4.  Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY.

5.  Giveaway runs from May 17 to May 20, 2013

 

ORDER LINKS: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Barnes and Noble/ KOBO

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Dark Flight (Shadow Slayers #3) by Cassi Carver-a review

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DARK FLIGHT (Shadow Slayers #3) by Cassi Carver-a review

Dark flight

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Barnes and Noble/ KOBO

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 21, 2013

“In a world of shadows, a pure heart can be the most dangerous weapon of all. “

Kara has been training for months to help take down Brakken-the merciless black-wing who is making life hell for the Demiare. But when Julian discovers a scout has been tracking Kara, he wants her out of the fight-even if it means breaking her heart in the process.

Gavin isn’t much better. He’s already lost so much to Brakken and has no intention of allowing the woman he loves to be the next sacrifice. He and Julian have their hands full trying to fight Brakken’s army and keep Kara safe, especially after her recent visit to the mythical white-wings. Since her return, she’s been acting decidedly…strange.

•••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: DARK FLIGHT is the third full length storyline in Cassi Carver’s SHADOW SLAYERS series. The series follows Kara Reed (the daughter of the late Fallen Demiare king) and the two Fallen Demiare Angels in her life who would do anything to protect the woman that they love. If you haven’t read the series or haven’t yet read book #2- Shadow Rising, this review may be a bit spoilerish although the book blurb does let the reader know.

Some background: Kara is a young woman who once believed she and her BFF Abbey were witches until the day she met Julian and Gavin-two of the most beautiful and fascinating Demiare Fallen Angels- also known as the Silver Wings- reveal to Kara that she is descended from Fallen royalty. What ensues in the first couple of storylines is the relationship between the trio as they endeavor to protect, release from bondage and, circumvent the evil that is trying to prevent Kara from coming into her powers as the rightful queen/princess of the Fallen. But when Kara’s bond mate Julian is killed trying to protect the woman he loves, everything changes. Julian returns as a shadow of his former self and a Dark Wing-a fallen angel who lives in the Shadowland-somewhere between earth and hell; but the man Kara once loved is not the man who had risen from the dead.

DARK FLIGHT continues the storyline as Kara is sent on a journey-a journey that will reveal much more about Kara’s family heritage than anyone had ever known. Julian will discover that more than one evil is hot on the trail of the woman he once loved and unleashes a plan to protect Kara that will break her heart and send her into the arms of the only man Julian calls brother and friend. As Gavin and Kara set out against a common enemy, Gavin will come face to face with his past when the Demiare are thrown into a war against the man Gavin once called father.

The journey is difficult for Kara as she must traverse a different path. When the time comes to go it alone, Kara will meet a power so strong and yet beautiful, it will forever change her life –physically, emotionally and philosophically- and the new Kara will be something the Demiare never knew could exist.

Most of the previous storyline characters play an integral part in Dark Flight and many, it will be discovered, are much more than friends. Jaxon will reunite with the mother he hasn’t seen for over one hundred years; Gavin will discover there are more members to his family tree; a new life will be brought into the world; and Kara will be surprised to discover that perhaps the truth about her Demiare heritage is a lot more complicated and familiar than anyone had known.

DARK FLIGHT is a fascinating and amazingly detailed urban fantasy storyline that furthers the history and background of the Demaire Fallen Angels and their lives. Kara is a heroine who loves with her heart and her soul; fights for what she believes; and is willing to push the limits of her emotions and power to save the people (and Fallen Angels) that she loves. Cassi has woven a story of love and loss; pain and sorrow; revenge and triumph. I have enjoyed the Shadow Slayers series from book one and I am in total agreement with Cassi’s decision about with whom Kara will share her life and her love.

Shadowslayers

READING ORDER
1.   Slayer’s Kiss
2.   Shadow Rising
2.5 The Silverwing’s Sorceress
3.   Dark Flight

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

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The Silverwing’s Sorceress (The Shadow Slayers 2.5) by Cassi Carver-a review

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THE SILVERWING’S SORCERESS (The Shadow Slayers 2.5) by Cassi Carver

The Silverwing's Sorceress

ABOUT THE BOOK:  Release December 11, 2012

Abbey Sellers has to get out of town for a few days while trouble at home sorts itself out. A getaway to her family’s mountain retreat with her friend, Jaxon, is exactly what she needs to relax and forget the wound etched into her stomach. Except since the scorching kiss they shared, spending time with Jaxon isn’t as relaxing as it used to be.

Grounded warriors, secret tunnels, and an ancient Book of Death are only part of the problem. How does any woman with a pulse stay “just friends” with a man who spent a hundred years honing his lovemaking skills in a harem? Besides, he’s immortal, and she has a shelf life. Jaxon, though, isn’t listening—or taking no for an answer.

Jaxon Hex finally knows what he wants, and he won’t let anything stop him from making Abbey his. Not even the devastating secret he’s been hiding from her. With the coven out to assassinate the woman he loves, and Abbey dabbling in death magic that could get her killed, his own blood could be the one thing that heals her—or separates them for all eternity.

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

REVIEW: The Silverwing’s Sorceress is a novella in Cassi Carver’s Shadow Slayers series. This particular storyline runs parallel to Cassi’s second instalment Shadow Rising and takes place after Kara has sent Abbey to Witch Mountain. When Kara discovers that Abbey’s coven is behind the attacks on the Demiare (fallen angels), Jaxon is told to take Abbey for a little R&R. When Abbey’s festering wound refuses to heal, Abbey believes she knows where she can find the cure-only the cure will come from an unlikely source.

Jaxon and Abbey’s relationship has been developing since the first storyline and in The Silverwing’s Sorceress the couple will face more than one roadblock in their relationship, but the biggest detriment is Abbey herself. Believing that a sexual relationship will ruin their friendship, Abbey refuses to take the ultimate step with Jaxon. There is also the demonic etching in her belly that is a reminder that Abbey has been branded by evil.

The push and pull of Abbey and Jaxon’s relationship continues throughout most of the storyline. Their friendship is beyond the normal boy/girl and includes some intimate times without crossing the proverbial line, but Jaxon knows that Abbey is his mate and he must convince the little witch to trust him with her heart.

The Silverwing’s Sorceress is a welcome addition to The Shadow Slayers series by Cassi Carver. My only complaint is that none of the main storyline players are present. The novella is strictly a story surrounding Abbey and Jaxon and their discovery of a secret and their love for each other. Some of Jaxon’s back-story is revealed and I would have liked to explore more of his family history and breeding.

ORDER LINKS: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / KOBO

Reviewed by Sandy

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SHADOW RISING (The Shadow Slayers #2) by Cassi Carver-a review

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SHADOW RISING (Shadow Slayers #2) by Cassi Carver

SHADOW RISING is the second storyline (September 25, 2012 release) in Cassi Carver’s The Shadow Slayers series. At the end of Slayer’s Kiss we discover that Kara Reed is the daughter of the late Fallen Demiare king and her rightful place is now on the throne. But when her bond-mate Julian is killed trying to protect her, she is unwilling to let go. Hoping their supernatural abilities will help to regenerate the love of her life, Kara will soon find out, that what you wish for isn’t what you will always get.

Gavin, a member of the Fallen and Julian’s best friend, had pledged to stay by Kara’s side, to guard, protect and to love, but Gavin has been MIA for close to 9 weeks and Kara has felt betrayed. With her guardian Jaxon now falling for her BFF Abbey, Kara is depending on Aiden who seems more than perturbed when he is called to perform his duties. But Kara is one of the few females born to the Demiare and as a princess-in –training it is the Fallen’s responsibility to protect and guard in the absence of her mate. When a coven of witches demands the blood of a Dark Wing angel, Kara knows that her task will be next to impossible-the Dark Wing are the enemy. But when a Dark Wing enters her life, who looks suspiciously like her fallen mate, Kara’s hopes soar thinking the impossible has come true.

Kara’s friend and witch Abbey was injured in the last storyline. As a being of supernatural powers Abbey should have healed, but all attempts have failed. There is one possible cure for Abbey, and if Kara agrees to the witches’s terms, she hopes that both her life and the life of her friend will be spared. But when Gavin returns from his 9 week absence he is shocked to discover that the Fallen angel he once knew as Julian, is now a Dark Wing who is on the verge of plunging in to the abyss. Without their help, the Dark winged Julian will be lost to them forever.

Shadow Rising is an intriguing storyline that builds on the world created by Cassi Carver. We learn more about the clan and the coven of witches, as well as their connection to one another. I enjoyed Shadow Rising and felt it was a much better storyline than the first book- Slayer’s Kiss, but I will add, that many introductory books in a new series tend to be over saturated with too much information that can actually detract from the premise and enjoyment of the book. The character development continued as Cassi delves deeper into the lives of the Fallen, and more of the background history of the Demiare is revealed. Although Jaxon and Abbey are an integral part of the series, they were basically in hiding through most of this book, but Cassi will bring them into focus with their own novella-Silverwing’s Sorceress in December 2012.

LINKS TO PURCHASE
Amazon Kindle
B&N Nook
KOBO

LINK TO OUR REVIEW OF: Slayer’s Kiss

Reviewed by Sandy

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Cassi Carver-Interview & Giveaway with the Author

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Cassi Carver-Interview with the Author

The Reading Cafe would like to welcome new author Cassi Carver. Cassi’s new release in The Shadow Slayer’s series- SLAYER’S KISS is now available.

TRC: Hi Cassi and welcome to The Reading Cafe. We will start with some bio information.

Name: Cassi Carver
Residence: Southern California
Marital Status: Married
Children: 4 children

TRC: Will you please tell us about yourself?

Cassi: Yes! I’m a full-time writer and a proud member of the Romance Writers of America, San Diego chapter. When I discovered writing as an adult, I knew I’d found something I could happily spend the rest of my life doing.

TRC: What was is like for you, growing up? Were you raised in the California area?

Cassi: People probably think warm, sandy beaches when they think Southern California, but I was actually raised in a rural area. I rode horses, shot guns, and was obsessed with critters of all varieties. My room was like a petting zoo.

TRC: Were your parents supportive of the choices you made? When and how did you become interested in writing?

Cassi: I started writing from a young age, and my parents loved to read my stories. My first novels were ten page choose-your-own-adventure stories, and my parents convinced me they were great works!!

TRC: Many writers bounce ideas and information with either a family member, a friend or another writer. With whom do you vent or bounce off ideas?

Cassi: When it comes to my stories, I’m a lone wolf. Heehee. Okay, not really. I don’t bounce ideas off many people, but I have a few trusted women in my local RWA chapter who I turn to in a bind for ideas andadvice—especially my critique partner, the fabulous author Melissa Cutler, debuting this year with Harlequin Romantic Suspense and Kensington. Yes, I’m a proud book aunty.

TRC: Is your husband involved with your writing process?

Cassi: Umm…he has ideas. Many ideas. I’ve learned to nod and smile when it comes to the writing, but he has great business sense and I often go to him with questions on marketing strategies. I’m sure he’d tell you he’s the inspiration for every steamy hero I create.

TRC: How were you notified that SLAYER’S KISS was to be published? What was your reaction when you saw your first published book?

Cassi: I was fortunate in that Slayer’s Kiss had several offers. It was the first book I’d submitted, but not the first book I’d written. (There are a couple “special” books under my bed that may never see the light of day.) Having Samhain as my publisher has been a wonderful experience. They are so supportive and easy to work with. Seeing Slayer’s Kiss out there in the world has been a dream come true!!

TRC: Where you involved in the selection of the cover?

Cassi: Samhain allows authors a lot of say on the cover. I fill out a detailed art form and then the artist gives back a preliminary design. I give feedback on that, and we adjust until the artist, the editor, and I think it’s just right. Samhain has an incredibly talented art department!

TRC: The first book in your new Shadow Slayers series is called SLAYER’S KISS. Will you tell us about the premise of the story? (see review below)

Here’s a blurb! 

Kara Reed is a supernatural failure. But where her magic falls short, her fists get the job done. The criminal element doesn’t stand a chance once she hits San Diego’s dark streets.

When two smoking-hot tenants move in next door, she thinks her love life might finally be heating up. Just being near Gavin and Julian is enough to make her want to offer her body on a platter.

Gavin and Julian know it’s only a matter of time before the truth comes out. They’re fallen angels sent to watch over the king’s daughter, one of the last females of her kind. Trouble is, she doesn’t seem to think she needs watching—unless they’re watching her shimmy out of her clothes.

No matter how tempting her guardians, Kara’s not about to let anything stop her from tracking down a sadistic killer who carves into his victims and leaves them for dead. Even when she realizes her target may be the very scourge of heaven from which her angels swore to protect her…

TRC: How many books do you have planned for this series?

Cassi: Three will be coming out this year, and I have at least a few more planned after that. I’m working on another series right now as well, so I’ll have to see how the readers receive the Shadow Slayers series. If people are enjoying the world, I’ll keep writing. But I would never leave readers hanging. There will be a final book when the time comes—hopefully in the distant future—and it will be packed full of happy!!

TRC: Will Gavin, Julian and Kara be the principle characters throughout the series? Will each successive novel involve a different hero and heroine?

Cassi: Because this series is urban fantasy, Kara will remain the primary heroine. I can’t see her falling in love with anyone besides Julian and Gavin. That love triangle is messy enough and keeping her plenty busy. As for the novellas, like the one coming out in December, those will be paranormal romance novellas focusing on a different hero and heroine in the same world who find their happy ending.

TRC: The first book in any series is usually filled with plenty of background information to let the reader know about the overall premise of the series. Was it difficult to blend the premise of SLAYER’S KISS with the background information required for the readers?

Cassi: Ha! Yes, it was! I try to go easy on backstory, mostly because I find it boring to read and so do most readers. I prefer action and romance. There was a point in Slayer’s Kiss where the copy editor was confused, so I had to go back and add some world-building explanations. Some reviewers found that part slow, and others appreciated being able to more easily understand Kara’s species. Because this is a continuing series, the next books won’t have so much background info. You’ll have to start with book one for lessons in Demiáre breeding!

TRC: Will you tell us something about the premise of SHADOW RISING (book 2), to be released September 25th 2012, in the Shadow Slayers series?

Cassi: Oh, my goodness! The blurb is just being finalized now, and I wish I could share it! I have to say that my editor really enjoyed Slayer’s Kiss—that’s why she bought it—but she loved Shadow Rising. In book two, Kara is finally over her mating heat and she’s learning what it means to be a Demiáre in control of herself and her choices.

Someone she loved and lost is back, but he’s not the same man he was before. In this book, Kara begins to understand what it really means to love and put others before herself. And of course, all that mushy stuff happens while lives are on the line and asses are being kicked… Oh, and we get to briefly visit the Shadowland! Which is by far some of the most fun writing I’ve done. You also have a novella scheduled for a December 2012 release.

TRC: Have you started writing the novella, and if so, will you tell us about the characters and premise?

Cassi: Oh, yes! The novella, tentatively titled The Silverwing’s Sorceress, is Jaxon’s story. I’m almost finished with it! I can’t tell you who his lady is, but by the end of Shadow Rising, you’ll have an idea! The Silverwing’s Sorceress coincides with the last four days of Shadow Rising.

TRC: You classify your writing style in the erotic-paranormal genre. There is always a fine line between erotic and pornographic. Where do you believe the line should be drawn with regards to writing erotic storylines? Do you believe there is a fine line between erotic and pornographic writing?

Cassi: Slayer’s Kiss is erotic urban fantasy. Because urban fantasy revolves around the same heroine in every book, they tend to be on the tame side, sexually. I wanted to see what would happen if I injected edgy passion into traditional UF.

I had a great time writing Slayer’s Kiss, but I’ve seen that it’s definitely hard to keep up that level of sexuality in subsequent books—Kara can’t remain in perpetual heat. I think her sexual experiences are deeper and more emotionally profound in book two. As for the difference between erotic fiction and pornography…this can be a difficult subject, especially when you come from a conservative family. But it’s always seemed simple to me—pornography is pictures or videos of naked people engaging in sex acts. Erotic fiction is simply words on a page.
No matter your opinion on pornography, it’s easy to see the difference between watching real human beings having sex versus piecing together words that create the experience only in your own mind.

Most readers of erotica aren’t using it for nefarious purposes. In fact, many women will tell you that spicy romance novels actually improve their libido and their marriages.

TRC: Under the circumstances, with erotic novels, there is a ‘parental warning’ or ‘content warning’, but many young adults (under 18) have access to most novels, especially now that ebooks are so readily available. Do you have any comments with regards to young adults and teens reading erotic novels? What would I tell teens in regards to reading my books?

Cassi: Uh…please don’t. I think reading erotica might give a young adult a skewed idea of what true intimacy is. When you’re older, you are better able to process what is reality and what is fantasy.

TRC: Have you ever considered writing a Young Adult series?

Cassi: Truthfully? Never. It would drive me crazy if my hero and heroine were never able to consummate their relationship. I write books with consenting adults who can explore where their passion takes them.

TRC: What are you currently working on?

Cassi: Currently, I’m editing Shadow Rising, finishing The Silverwing’s Sorceress, and beginning a brand new paranormal romance series! My life is never dull.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Cassi: Just that I had a lot of fun, and I’m so glad you invited me here today!!

LIGHTNING ROUND
Favorite Food: Cheesecake

Favorite Dessert: Cheesecake. Hey—it’s a real food!

Favorite Movie: The Boxer, with Daniel Day Lewis

Favorite TV Show: TRUE BLOOD—Woot!! Woot!!

Last Movie that you saw: I can’t remember the last, but my favorite recent movie was “This Means War.” It was hilarious! I saw it twice!!

Dark or Milk Chocolate: There is no such thing as bad chocolate, but milk.

Last book that you read: Nalini Singh’s Visions of Heat

White or red roses: Red

Last vacation destination: A cabin overlooking lake Cuyamaca.

Ideal evening getaway: I’m always dragging my husband to the Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego. I’d like to eventually get a studio apartment there where he and I can get away for the weekend! (But we only live 15 minutes away right now, so we make do.)

Thank you Cassi for answering our questions. The Reading Café wishes you the best of luck with your writing career. Keep us informed about upcoming releases and any new books or series that you have planned.

LINKS:
Website: Cassi Carver
Amazon Kindle: Slayer’s Kiss
KOBO: Slayer’s Kiss
B&N NOOK: Slayer’s Kiss

******************GIVEAWAY*******************

Cassi is offering an ebook copy of SLAYER’S KISS to one lucky eligible member at The Reading Cafe.

1.  Open to all registered members.  If you are not a member, please register using one of the social log-ins or using the log-in tab at the top.

2.  Please post a comment and say hello to Cassi.

3.  Contest is open internationally.

 

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