Blood Legacy (The V.V.Inn #4) by C.J. Ellisson-review and book tour

Blood Legacy (The V.V. Inn #4) by C.J. Ellisson-review and book tour

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Blood Legacy
The V.V. Inn #4
by CJ Ellisson
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, UF
Release Date: February 25, 2015

Blood Legacy

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BLOOD LEGACY (The V.V.Inn #4) by CJ Ellisson

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 25, 2015

Despite surviving silver poisoning, Vivian isn’t out of the fire yet. Rolando is still alive, as is his desire to eliminate all manipulator vampires like her. The streets of Buenos Aires prove to be a tricky hunting ground for Vivian and her husband Rafe, especially when a paranormal serial killer starts leaving bodies behind.

Overwhelmed amidst the city’s chaos, they seek help from Jon, Vivian’s werewolf servant and the couple’s right-hand man. As the deaths continue, a local alpha under scrutiny for the crimes threatens to blame Jon and reveal his master’s daytime location—if they don’t find the real culprit.

It’s a race for the trio to stop the killings, uncover the truth, and catch the vampire responsible for Vivian’s torture—before the supernatural locals pick up their proverbial pitchforks and stop them all, for good.

Warning: This book contains adult content (violence, blood, and sex) and is intended for readers over 18.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: BLOOD LEGACY is the fourth full-length installment in CJ Ellisson’s adult, contemporary The V.V.Inn paranormal, UF series focusing on Vivian Alexandria (Dria)- a 580+ year old ancient vampire with a special ability known only to a few. BLOOD LEGACY begins immediately after the events of book three-THE BIG GAME.

Told from three alternating points of view (Vivian, Rafe, Jon) their continuing story finds Vivian, her husband Rafe, and Vivian’s werewolf servant Jon remaining in Buenos Aires following an attempt on both Vivian and Rafe’s lives. While the vampire Tribunal takes no responsibility for the attack against the couple, Vivian sets out with Rafe and Jon to uncover the who and why. What ensues is a game of cat and mouse with witches, warlocks, mythological demons and shape shifters of all kinds. A trail of dead ‘supernatural’ bodies finds our trio following the clues to an unknown assassin.

The relationship between Vivian and Rafe is sensual and erotic. This is a couple who are madly in love with one another; there is no denying their attraction. Jon, Vivian’s servant, is slowly pulling away from his all consuming need of Vivian-Jon’s new love interest is unknown to his vampire master. Rafe and Jon’s relationship is combative, energetic and quarrelsome; the bickering duo continue to push one another’s buttons.

Because the focus of the storyline remains in Buenos Aires, there is little to no mention of The V.V.Inn and the other members of Vivian’s Seethe. We hope to read more about the other werewolves and vampires upon Vivian’s return to Alaska.

CJ Ellisson blends a paranormal storyline with a contemporary setting where the sights and sounds of Buenos Aires are the playground for many supernatural beings. We are taken on a journey through the back alleys, back yards and sewers in the search for an ancient creature, once thought only to exist in stories. BLOOD LEGACY is another fascinating and action packed installment in CJ Ellisson’s THE V.V. Inn paranormal, urban fantasy series.

The V.V. Inn Series

Reading Order and Reviews
Death’s Servant
Just One Taste is a FREE read on CJ’s website-> CLICK HERE
Vampire Vacation
Another Sip
The Hunt
Big Game
Death Times Two
Blood Legacy

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Excerpt

 

After being almost killed by silver poisoning, I’m recovering nicely. Most people think vampires are immortal, and I can understand why with how long our kind can normally exist. But if you can be killed by any means, then you aren’t technically immortal, right? I prefer the term semi-mortal. Lord knows I’ve certainly killed more than my fair share of vampires, and I can attest that we are not immune to death.

I stretch on the chaise lounge, gazing up at the late afternoon cloud coverage revealed by the clear atrium panels above me. It’s a nice winter day in late June, three weeks after I escaped from capture, off the southeastern coast of Argentina, and a semblance of peace finally fills me.

Drew, one of the vampires in my seethe, or vampire family, strides into the inner garden of our large Spanish-style hacienda and clears his throat. “Vivian,” he says, calling me by the nickname most everyone uses instead of my real name, Dria, short for Alexandria. “Do you really think shipping us home to Alaska is the best idea? We all want to stay and help.”

I glance up at the tall, slender man, noting his healthy hue and the sexually satisfied air about him. Judging by the noises drifting from his suite every night since our return to the island, he and Chelly have been exploring their new relationship status, vampire and servant, every chance they’ve had.

“You’re not strong enough for this fight, Drew, and neither are the others. I appreciate your loyalty and decision to stay to see things through, but I won’t risk your safety for my own.”

Frustration appears to simmer beneath his smooth facade. “I take it there’s nothing I can say or do to prove we’d be an asset?”

I rise from my comfortable spot on the lounge chair. “Think about it—you might be a help, but what about the others? Can you say the same for any of them?” I angle my head and go for a low blow. “Could you live with yourself if your desire to protect your master led to their deaths? Would you sleep well during the day knowing Chelly died before she had to?”

Drew’s handsome face crumples, his noble intent twisting within. “Not fair, Viv. Not fair. Dammit!” He paces away before whipping around to face me again. “Deep down, I know you’re right, but that doesn’t mean I have to accept it without complaint.”

I walk toward him, reaching out a hand in comfort. My grip rests lightly on his forearm as I push my will into him, not quite using my full manipulator traits that can sway any vampire to my way of thinking, but I give him a mental shove past his immediate anger to offer clear thinking. “I know where your heart lies, and I don’t mean regarding Chelly. I know you would fight to the death beside me, without hesitation. But I have need of you elsewhere.” His brow quirks up in question. “You will be the one to protect all I hold dear. You will be the strongest left in Alaska should trouble befall them while I’m gone.”

Irritation at my words spills into his tone. “What good will I be in Alaska during the summer? I’d be living indoors and traveling via the tunnels the entire time.”

“Do you really think a vampire weakened by the sun is still not strong enough or clever enough to protect those who matter to him? Do you think a man, or group of men, could outwit you at your lowest? You are over a century and a half old, Drew. By no means are you on the same level—in any sense—as Paul or the werewolves.”

He smiles. “I see exactly what you’re doing, you conniving woman. Building me up to make me feel important with what you want me to do. All right, I’ll go quietly—whether I agree with you or not about how much good I’ll be while cooped up inside.”

“Good. Now, onto the more important question: Do you trust Paul to share the flying duties home with you?”

“Uh… no, not yet. But either way, we can’t fly during the day.”

I smile, glad the issue of them leaving will be dropped. “Not to worry. I’ve arranged for several top-notch pilots you can pick up in Buenos Aires.”

Once Drew departs, I return to the personal suite I usually share with my human husband, intending to do some yoga. The stretching and muscle work has helped realign my spiritual balance with the physical healing. Thanks to Rafe, I’ve fully regained my strength from the silver trauma a few weeks ago.

The ones responsible for my imprisonment and torture, Coraline and her cohorts, were killed by my husband in a brutal display of his defensive nature. Only one man—Rolando—remains for us to track down in Buenos Aires. Hopefully, finding him will put an end to the hunt for other manipulator vampires like me. As far as I know, I’m still the only one who has escaped extermination over the last few centuries.

While I rested and recovered, Rafe explored the underbelly of the Argentine city extensively, making sure his casual occupation stayed unnoticed by the ruling Tribunal of Ancients. His protective instincts toward me have barreled to the surface, and I’ve found I rather like this side of him.

After the worst of my damage was healed through copious amounts of blood and lots of deep restorative sleep, the dead-to-the-world type only the undead can take, we split up—him staying in the city to investigate, and me journeying back to our island off the coast of southeastern Argentina to tend to the family of caretakers. Their minds needed delicate fixing from the damage done by the same people who tried to kill me.

The island caretakers were not harmed permanently, and I have to admit, what was done to their minds was so subtle it didn’t require much effort on my part to repair. The island hideaway they help keep in tip-top shape is where we spend most of the Argentine winter, only venturing to Buenos Aires when there’s a big Tribunal shin-dig.

But this year was different.

Not only did we initially arrive weeks earlier than normal, with most of our new seethe traveling with us, but now we’re sending Drew, Chelly, and the others home to Alaska during the region’s summer months—which is typically singe and die season for vampires above the Arctic Circle. The extensive tunnels and safeguards built into the resort will keep the returning vampires alive, so I’m not worried on that end. They’ll be safe and—by the end of the long stretches of seemingly never-ending daylight—bored with cabin fever.

I’m sure Asa, the ex-military vampire responsible for the resort’s security, will be happy to have them back. Recently, he’s had his hands full with helping to exorcise ghosts at the inn. The apparitions were of the humans and supernaturals who’d died during the past year’s adventures. By the lighter lilt in his voice during our last conversation, it sounded like Asa may have found a female diversion this summer, too. Good, the man needs to let someone in.

Sending them home while Rafe and I get to the bottom of things here is the smartest solution. I will not let guilt sway me.

In the end, it was the others and not Drew who protested nonstop about returning home last night, tempting me beyond belief to force them to my will, but I managed to resist and smile benignly during their blathering.

Above all, Rafe and I need to focus on finding Rolando and putting an end to this drama. Having the others here, even if they stayed on the island and not in the direct path of my enemies, could be dangerous—not to mention a distraction I don’t want to take on. I’d worry about their safety.

Someone could succeed in finding them again, even on our tiny middle-of-nowhere island, to use against me. In comparison, the inn is more of a secure, secluded fortress than many of them realize. It’s the perfect place to await an enemy, especially when you know the property as well as we do.

Doubt creeps into me and I squash it, determined not to second guess my resolve regarding Jon and our plans to fly him down. As an alpha werewolf, he would be the best choice to stay and safeguard the seethe at the inn. But, whether I like it or not, I need him here by my side, to hunt down Rolando.

What prompted a hidden sect within the Tribunal—one hell bent on tracking and killing manipulators, a rare breed of vampire thought long exterminated—to hunt me down?

Has the story of Coraline’s tampered memories, which I was responsible for on her last visit to Alaska, spread among their supporters? Did I reveal myself unknowingly through another channel? Has my arrogance in always assuming I could handle anything thrown my way with a simple bending of my will finally backfired on me?

How did they know to look for me? Who pointed them in my direction? Have others, vampires older than me, suspected my secret for centuries and yet never acted to eliminate me? And if yes, why? Was it out of fear, or with the hope to someday use me and my skills to their advantage?

I shake my head, eager to dispel the uncharacteristic self-doubt. The wondering of why and how my hidden traits have been discovered is not important. Tracking down those who wish me harm and killing them is.

Resolve swells within me, strengthening with the deep breath I draw into my lungs. I will find those responsible. I will secure the safety of those pledged to me. I will—

My cell rings, cutting off my internal diatribe.

The screen reveals it’s Rafe. I grab the device and answer it. “Yes? Why are you calling me on the phone?” Referring to his choice to use technology rather than connect with me telepathically, as he usually does.

“Your thoughts were all over the place. And growing rather dark, truth be told. I thought calling you might snap you out of it better than rudely barging into your private musings.”

“Fine. I was also thinking of Jon—did you catch those thoughts, too?”

“Yes, and you’re right. We do need him here. He’ll be an asset more than a hindrance, I think. When can he get here? And will you have him fly to the city or the island?”

I bite my lip, ruminating on his questions. “He’s schedule to leave in a few hours, and will arrive late tomorrow. I think having him journey directly to Buenos Aires would be the smartest use of time. I’ve chartered a plane and will fly in tonight.”

“Good. Did the others leave already?”

“Yes, last night, right as the sun went down. They had a brief stop in the city to pick up more pilots.”

“Time to do what we mentioned months ago—‘beard the lion in his den.’”

I snort, unable to contain the sarcasm waiting to escape. “Oh yes, that worked so beautifully for us last time, didn’t it?”

“Hey, things didn’t go as planned, I’ll grant you that, but any battle you can walk away from with your life is considered a win, trust me.” A teasing note enters his voice. “Are you sure you’re not more annoyed that I did most of the killing and maiming this time?”

Flashes of blood and dismembered bodies skitter across my mind, small glimpses of what I recall from when I awoke in the underground rooms beneath the Tribunal headquarters, also known as the Seat of Darkness and the base of all vampire kind.

Rafe’s actions may have surprised our new seethemates who were with him, Drew and Paul, but I’ve known what my husband is capable of for a very long time. “I don’t think that’s it. Or more accurately, I don’t think that’s the only thing.” A sigh escapes me. “I think we walked into a bigger mess than we bargained for, and I’d rather make sure it doesn’t happen again.”

“We can’t begin to formulate a plan of attack until we’re well aware of who our enemy is and where they’re located. The basic knowledge of where the Tribunal lies is not enough. Who else is visiting this season? Are all the ancients in attendance or are some traveling? Where do they stay during their restorative sleep—meaning a private residence or in the extensive underground holdings of the Tribunal?”

He’s not saying anything we haven’t discussed before, so I redirect and ask about recent developments. “Have you had any luck in tracking down Rolando?”

“No, none. And it’s damn frustrating, I can tell you that. The big bastard didn’t up and disappear, that’s for sure.”

“What about Justin? Have you discovered where he lives yet?”

“I’ve narrowed the wizard’s location down to a diverse barrio on the outskirts of San Telmo, one of the city’s older neighborhoods. But no set address. The area has lots of herbal shops with hard to find magical ingredients.”

“That sounds more like an ideal location for a coven of witches than a wizard.”

“Well, where would you have me start looking? Should I knock on the Tribunal’s door and ask where they hide their pet wizardling?”

A grunt of frustration seeps past my lips. “No. You’re fine. I almost hate to admit it, but tracking is better suited to Jon’s natural abilities than yours.”

“Oh yes, the furball. Do you plan to have him take his wolf form and sniff like a dog to track?”

“Come now, dear, don’t make this harder than it needs to be. He is a strength. He is a valuable asset to us.”

His voice tightens, showing his inner turmoil and anguish. “Who are you trying to convince—me or you?”

“You, you dork. I know I need him. Now more than ever. Suck it up, buttercup.” My voice deepens, taking on a husky tone. “It’s not like I want him the way I want you. He’s not the one I dream of every time I close my eyes. It’s not his love, his very essence of life, that brought me back from the edge of insanity and darkness,” I say, referring to the moment I nearly died and Rafe’s devotion and love saved me.

“Okay, you’ve made your point. I’ll play nice with the werewolf. Any hint or rumor he may have found a mate during last month’s big game hunting fiasco with all the werewolves?”

I shrug, realize he can’t see my movement, and say, “I’m not sure.”

“What? How can that be? How could you not be sure of what your vampire servant is doing at any given time?”

“You know I gave him distance when we left—and I don’t mean physically, I mean with our mental connection. He’s still there, in the back of my mind. But I’ve given him privacy, not wanting to intrude when he has the chance to be free of my influence for once.”

“Is that the best course of action when you claim to ‘need him’ now?”

“I’ll allow the connection to strengthen when he journeys here, but I want to keep some mental distance in place for him. He needs it. His uncontrollable obsessive desires were overcoming his waking thoughts, he needed the break to heal and find himself again.”

“All right, enough about the poor lost puppy. When did you say he’ll arrive?”

“Tuesday night. We’ll meet him at the airport in the city. How is the house hunting coming along?”

I hear the happiness in his voice. “I’ve found several suitable accommodations,” he says. “You’ll like them, I’m sure.”

A rush of images floods my mind. Stately residences in the posh neighborhoods near the heart of the city, rooms with high ceilings and ornate moldings, and hearths with big roaring fires.

“Good. I miss you, my darling. It’s only been two weeks and I still think it’s too long.”

“You’re just hungry for my blood, aren’t you?”

“Among other things…”

A gentle tingle of sensation indicates my husband’s mind reaching out to mine. And I miss you too, liebling. We’ll be together soon. Not to worry.

 

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About The author

Follow: Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter

CJ EllissonC.J. Ellisson is the USA Today Bestselling author of the New York Times Bestselling book, Vanilla on Top, the bestselling V V Inn series, and several erotica shorts. She lives in northern Virginia with her husband, two children, three dogs, and a fluffy black cat who makes her sneeze.

Unlike most full-time authors, she’s also battling severe chronic illness. C.J. works daily to put her Lupus into remission and continues to fight numerous bacterial infections while her immune system slowly attacks her body. She turned to writing when she could no longer work outside the home and claims the escape of penning contemporary fantasy, erotica, and erotic romance has helped save her sanity.

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Third Anniversary Celebration Giveaway with CJ Ellisson

Third Anniversary Celebration Giveaway with CJ Ellisson

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REMINDER: ALL anniversary celebration giveaways require a comment to enter.

ONE lucky commenter will WIN a SIGNED, first edition PAPER COPY of VAMPIRE VACATION by CJ Ellisson

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TRC: HI CJ and welcome back to The Reading Cafe.

Congratulations on the upcoming release of BLOOD LEGACY the fourth installment in the V.V. Inn series.

For those who do not know about Vivian (Dria) and the V.V. Inn series, would you please tell us something about the background of the series and your leading heroine?

CJ: Vivian is 580 year old vampire married to Rafe, her human husband. She’s had many lives in five centuries, and at the start of this series, she’s running a supernatural inn with Rafe. She uses her gifts to entertain and amuse the guests, often playing matchmaker, all without their knowledge, of course. Vivian is a rare breed of vampire who can mind-control other vampires, even to the point of projecting physical illusions.

The concept of a resort location for the undead was the original push behind creating the series. It made sense to plan the getaway in a seasonal location where darkness reigns supreme: The wilds of Alaska in the winter. Every entertainment imaginable, with plenty of willing blood donors on hand for the visiting vampires.

TRC: How has Vivian’s character changed over the series?

CJ: In the beginning she was very isolated, trusting only her husband and Jon, her vampire servant who’s also an alpha werewolf. As the series progresses, she gains new members to her vampire family and slowly begins to trust them. There are bumps along the way, a few deaths, and lots of intrigue.

Vivian may be a very powerful vampire, but over time she recognizes those relationships she’s avoided have become a source of strength and weakness at the same time. She longs to keep the people she cares about safe, and must confront the reality that she’s not as powerful, or as prepared, as she thinks.

Blood LegacyTRC: Would you please tell us something about the premise of BLOOD LEGACY?

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CJ: We left off in BIG GAME with Vivian recovering from torture and her vampire family rallying around her for support. In this latest installment we have her re-grouping with the two most important people in her life, Rafe and Jon, to track down the vampire who escaped her husband’s wrath in the last book. Nothing is as it seems, and the three must hunt two supernatural killers in Buenos Aires while trying to uncover their prey’s location.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, logistics, background, geography) did you encounter writing this particular story?

CJ: I’ve had this story and the concept brewing in my head for over two years, since BIG GAME was published. I knew what I wanted to convey in this installment, even if I didn’t have it all written down yet. The biggest challenge I encountered was starting the book before I’d fully fleshed out the outline. I was working with a group of students on their first novels for National Novel Writing Month in November 2014 while writing this book.

We spent all of October focused on planning their projects, so when I sat down to write with them on Nov 1st, I didn’t have my outline completed. Consequently, when December hit (and they all made their goal) I had to go back and re-work what I had written to make sure everything flowed well and wouldn’t require a ton of revisions later.

It turned out to be the best thing for the book. I was able to finish my outline and start sharing the book in January with my alpha readers. They read it while I finished the rest of the book. The process was exhilarating and reminded me so much why I love this series.

TRC: Your story lines, including BLOOD LEGACY, are often written from multiple points of view. How do you keep the premise flowing smoothly using many POV?

CJ: That’s where the outline comes in. I plot the entire book from alternating POVs. When I made alterations in December, I had to add chapters and change passages to fit with the timeline. The process was tedious and drove home the point to not start a book without a completed outline. Especially when you have three POVs!

The only way the tale is going to be smooth is if you have a timeline written out and now exactly where all the players are at any given time, and exactly what they are doing and does it add to the story. If it does, you either have to show it or weave the info in at an appropriate time. I didn’t set out to write a story with multiple POVs, as the first book is only from one, but when I attempted to write multiple POVs years ago, it felt right. And I’ve never regretted the decision to tell the stories this way.

TRC: How do you keep the plot unpredictable without sacrificing content and believability especially in a storyline where most of the characters are supernatural and the premise focuses on the paranormal?

CJ: I read a lot. That’s the best way to explain it. If the books are shorter, like 30-50k, I can read them in an evening or two. If they are longer, like most of my favorite urban fantasies are, they will take a few days. As an author, you will only know what’s been overdone if you read what’s popular in your genre.

That’s not to say you’ll never repeat something that’s already been done, more than likely you will, but if you read a lot, you’ll know how to put a spin or twist on your idea that may make it stand out or not feel like a carbon copy of everything else that’s out there already.

The HuntI try my best to craft a story that is unpredictable. I’ve plotted books where the ending appeared obvious while I’m writing it, meaning I led the reader there too easily, and I will re-write the ending on the fly. As an example, I plotted THE HUNT with the idea I’d add Emiko to the growing seethe, or vampire family. But as I got closer to the end, that seemed obvious. I grabbed my notes and quickly re-plotted the ending. The final result was better than the plotted original, I think.

I’d also plotted BIG GAME as Vivian escaping her tormentors, killing everyone she encountered, and rescuing everyone else. The ending with Rafe being the hero turned out much better.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters? How much influence does Vivian have on the overall series direction?

CJ: I direct the writing. If I’ve plotted something that doesn’t match with the character, I either need to add a situation where they would act as I want, introduce an element that meets the end I want, or re-write the premise. In BLOOD LEGACY I’d plotted a difficult situation for Jon, but when I was writing the book I couldn’t write the deed as I wanted. Jon’s character was too honorable to go the route I’d directed. So I came up with a viable solution. And I’m glad I did. I like the result better this way.

The characters do not talk to me in my head. What I see as I write is more of a movie playing in my head. But occasionally the players stand around and do nothing. Or I sense that the action I want to happen won’t work with the character’s sense of self. Creating is an interesting beast. Different for every author, I’m sure.

Big GameTRC: What is something that few, if any people, know about you?

CJ: Hmm…. that’s a tough one. I’m pretty open about the real me online. Okay, here’s something that happened to me recently that I think very few people know: I had a run in with an angry reader last year that started me on a downward spiral of not creating for a very long time — eight months. The longest I’ve ever not written since I became a writer.

That incident was the tip of many bad things that followed — an event and several connected projects I’d worked long hours on fell apart, and a friendship I treasured dried up and disappeared without any concrete reason. Overall, it was a very hard time.

But the bright side of things was I spent more time on my health and finally focused on all the stuff I should have been doing to get better. That extra time helped heal me. I’m in a better place now and am more careful about how close I’ll let work-relationships get to me.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

CJ: I’m working on plotting the next V V Inn book (even a few novellas), three other separate series proposals for my agent, and then plotting the last book in the Walk on the Wild Side series, VANILLA SPICE.

Walk on the Wild Side Series

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

CJ: Nope, I’m good. Thanks for the great questions. Really made me think.

TRC: Thank you CJ for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the release of BLOOD LEGACY.

CJ: Thanks for having me here today, Sandy! I wish your blog a more prosperous year than ones before, and may every book you read bring you on a journey.

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CJ Ellisson has graciously donated a signed, first edition paper copy of VAMPIRE VACATION for ONE lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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Girls Night Out Anthology Vol 2: Blog Tour and Review

Girls Night Out Anthology Vol 2 Blog tour and Review

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GIRLS NIGHT OUT (Volume 2 anthology) by Patricia A. Wolf, CJ Ellisson, Calinda Be, Lila Dubois

RELEASE DATE: March 2014

Girls Night Out, Volume Two

Girls Night Out

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One touch, one kiss, one night…can change everything. Join New York Times Bestseller C.J. Ellisson, Calinda B, Patricia A. Wolf and Lila Dubois for four stories of red-hot erotic romance and sexy paranormal magic. From encounters with a vampire, a birthday party gone wild, a super-hot male stripper who’s more than human, and a sexy new game at a BDSM club, this collection of stories has everything you need to spice up your spring.

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Kissed by a Vampire
By Patricia A. Wolf

Lost in passions Sarah never dreamed possible, she wonders if a seductive encounter could lead to something more. But when Michael stands her up, she realizes it was all a fantasy.

Can a second chance meeting bring back the passions they once felt? Or will his vampire secret destroy everything?

REVIEW: A quick, passionate storyline that focuses on one night of ecstasy on a Caribbean Island between Sarah and Michael but when Michael is called home on an emergency, Sarah is left wondering if another one night stand has left her after getting what he wants.

Patricia Wolf writes a storyline that leaves you wanting more-more of Michael and Sarah; more about their future; more about Michael’s history of one day waking up vampire with no knowledge of how or why.

KISSED BY A VAMPIRE is a quick romantic and sexy read with a little bit of everything-drama, betrayal, jealousy, heartbreak, romance, sex and falling in love. You are pulled into a story about two people looking for a night of passion and finding their happily ever after.

•••••••••••••••••••••

The Beckoning of Beguiling Things
By Calinda B.

Can 24 hours really change your life? Marissa Engles is about to find out. When she heads to Las Vegas with her sisters and her best friend, she meets sexy, Thunder from Down Under dancer Chris King and hits the jackpot, in more ways than one.

A secret magical society, an evil sorcerer, and a powerful male watching her from the sidelines add to the intrigue. And King himself has a dark secret that may prove Marissa’s undoing. Everything hinges on whether Marissa’s willing to leap without looking and face the consequences.

REVIEW: THE BECKONING of BEGUILING THINGS is a short story in Calinda B’s contemporary, paranormal Beckoning series. I am not sure where it belongs in the series order but from what I could tell is appears to be a prequel of sorts.

We are introduced to Marissa Engles, a woman whose magic has yet to be unleashed. During a twenty four hour period, our heroine will be approached by a number of men all willing to make Marissa their own-but Marissa only has eyes for one man and that man may be the one to open Marissa up to her future and a dark world of witches, warlocks, demons and magic.

The storyline is written from alternating first person and third person points of view. There is plenty of information but not enough to let the reader know the truth about Marissa’s future and her awakening powers. The sex scenes are intimate and steamy but the relationship is doomed from the start. We can only hope that whatever happens in the future Marissa will find the man who calls to her heart.

As a short story, The Beckoning of Beguiling Things is an interesting and compelling read but without any prior knowledge of the series I was slightly lost as to the premise and what it may have foretold.

••••••••••••••••••••••

Loving Ms. Wrong
By C.J. Ellisson

Katrina attends a birthday party for her friend Carla. Little does the health food storeowner know that the fateful girls night out will change her life forever.

Marcus, the polished metrosexual who hates to get his hands dirty, stumbles upon the ladies at a local bar. Sparks fly when the two meet, courtesy of a 12-sided sex dice and a night neither one will ever forget.

REVIEW: LOVING MS.WRONG is a short, erotic story from CJ Ellisson’s Walk on the Wild Side series that focuses on a girl’s night out and one night of passion. A quick read where Carla’s friend Katrina finds herself in her darkened apartment with the sexy Marcus and a whole night to explore what it is she has been missing.

Our heroine is a woman whose sexual desires are low to non existent and Marcus is the man to prove that beneath her hardened exterior, there exists a passion and sexuality that is waiting to be released. The story focuses on trust, a back story of family pain, and the beginning of a relationship where intimacy and imagination are about to be explored.

Written from alternating first person points of view (Marcus and Katrina) the provocative storyline can be read as a stand alone and the reader does not need to read the previous instalments in CJ’s Walk on the Wild Side series to understand the premise.

••••••••••••••••••

A is for…
By Lila Dubois
When the overseers of LA’s most exclusive BDSM club declare the start of a sexy new game that all members must play, Anna has no choice but to participate. Master Jensen knows who, and what, he wants—Anna—but before he can have her he’ll have to prove to the lovely submissive that he can master every letter of the alphabet.

REVIEW: A IS FOR is the first storyline in Lila Dubois’s adult, contemporary, erotic, BDSM Checklist BDSM Erotic Romance series. This is Master Jensen and Anna’s storyline revolving around the letter A. From anal to animal play nothing is off limits unless your Dom is also your lover.

The majority of the storyline is graphic BDSM play. This is a lifestyle conducive to only a particular segment of society and the graphic imagery may not be for everyone. Nothing is off limits; pain and humiliation are part of the bargain; and in the end, declarations of love wipe the slate clean until another day.

•••••••••••••••••••••

GIRLS NIGHT OUT is an anthology with a mix of paranormal, romance, sex, erotica and love. Each author has a different take on what it is that pleases their heroine-from bondage and pain to hot, romantic sex. If you are interested in an eclectic mix of romance and sex, than GIRLS NIGHT OUT may be of interest to you.

Copy supplied by the tour promoter.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Vanilla Twist by CJ Ellisson-Blog Tour, Review and Giveaway

Vanilla Twist by CJ Ellisson-Blog Tour, Review and Giveaway

VT Blog Tour

Vanilla Twist
A Walk on the Wild Side #2
by CJ Ellisson
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: February 9, 2014

Vanilla Twist Cover

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VANILLA TWIST (Walk on the Wild Side #3) by CJ Ellisson

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 9, 2014

Heather thinks she has it all—an interesting lover, a dream job, and a new wardrobe to match her take-charge attitude. But everyone has a past, and when Heather confronts hers at work she’ll be hard-pressed to hold onto her newfound confidence and resolve. Does she trust Tony enough to let him help her or will she tackle the issue on her own?

Still intrigued by the young woman and the multiple layers she presents to the world, Tony begins to change his life, too—for what he hopes is the better. He quit his high-powered career to find peace in a less stressful day-to-day existence. Desire for Heather still invades his every waking moment, and when trouble threatens their sexual explorations he makes the hardest choice of his life. One he may soon regret.

••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: VANILLA TWIST is the third instalment in CJ Ellisson’s A Walk on the Wild Side contemporary, adult, erotic romance series. This is Heather Pierce and Tony Carmine’s second storyline. We were first introduced to our couple in the first book-Vanilla on Top-a story where Heather stepped out of her comfort zone to find the man who was her perfect match-both inside and outside of the bedroom.

Vanilla Twist furthers Heather and Tony’s relationship but a relationship that is threatened by Tony’s past and Heather’s ex. Tony’s history of womanizing and short-lived relationships plays a role in his friendships with family and pals but it is one recent relationship in particular that may push away the woman that he loves. As Heather’s photography business begins to flourish her corporate life will force her to make a decision about both her future and her past.

CJ Ellisson writes a storyline where two people must face the possibility of a different future then the one they had originally intended. The sex is sensual, arousing and inventive; but it is the maturity with which both Tony and Heather handle a potentially difficult situation that brings our couple together for a HEA.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

___________________________

Series Spotlight

Click HERE for our review of Vanilla on Top.

 Vanilla on Top
A Walk on the Wild Side #1
by CJ Ellisson
Release Date: January 2013
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance,

Vanilla on Top

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Discover your inner bad girl, and set her free…
Heather Pierce is done being a wallflower, both personally and professionally. Desperate to live a different life for one night, she attends a speed dating event. Maybe here, anonymous unless she chooses otherwise, she can become someone new. When a man way out of her league sits across from her, Heather gathers her courage and takes charge of what she wants, secretly fearing he won’t desire the real person she’s desperate to hide.

Top acquisitions officer and international playboy Tony Carmine is about to close the biggest deal of his career. But then he meets Heather at a speed dating event…and discovers losing control may be exactly what he needs. Her blossoming sensuality occupies his every thought, consuming him with the need to possess the most intriguing lover he’s ever encountered—until he walks into the boardroom and sees Heather on the other side of the negotiating table.

_______________________

Avoiding Mr. Right
A Walk on the Wild Side #2
by CJ Ellisson
Release Date: June 2013
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

Click HERE for our review of Avoiding Mr. Right.

Avoiding Mr. RightOrder Links: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

Carla Johnson thinks issuing orders to a lover will keep her heart safe and leave her in charge of her own destiny. Afraid for Carla’s future, her best friend Heather implores her to change her self-centered ways, handing her a list of love life mistakes to steer clear of:

1. Casual Sex
2. Friends with Benefits
3. Avoidance of Intimacy

Carla ignores the list—unwilling to face she might have a commitment problem. Until she invites a co-worker to her place one night. She instantly regrets the hum-drum sexual encounter and discourages the accountant from pursuing her.

Andy Shea refuses to become another lover the feisty blonde dumps. It’ll take a patient man with a strong hand to unlock Carla’s sexual awareness and win her heart. He’s up for the challenge to convince her he’s the one—and eager to prove this number cruncher won’t make a boring bedmate.

About The Author beige

Follow: Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter

CJ EllissonC.J. Ellisson is the USA Today Bestselling author of the New York Times Bestselling book, Vanilla on Top, the bestselling V V Inn series, and several erotica shorts. She lives in northern Virginia with her husband, two children, three dogs, and a fluffy black cat who makes her sneeze.

Unlike most full-time authors, she’s also battling severe chronic illness. C.J. works daily to put her Lupus into remission and continues to fight numerous bacterial infections while her immune system slowly attacks her body. She turned to writing when she could no longer work outside the home and claims the escape of penning contemporary fantasy, erotica, and erotic romance has helped save her sanity.

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Second Anniversary Celebration-CJ Ellisson Prize Package

Second Anniversary Celebration-CJ Ellisson Prize Package

Anniversary Giveaway Banner

Today’s second SECOND ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION giveaway prize package has been generously donated by the amazing CJ Ellisson. CJ is offering an ecopy of the first three books in The V.V. Inn series – Vampire Vacation, The Hunt, Big Game- to four (4) lucky commenters.

There will be four (4) winners each receiving the first 3 ebooks in The V.V. Inn series by CJ Ellisson

Click HERE for the link to CJ Ellisson’s website

Follow CJ: Website / Facebook/ Goodreads / Twitter

CJ Ellisson prize package

REMINDER: ALL giveaways require a comment to be eligible for the prize.

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. Please tell us to enter you into the giveaway.

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY.

7. Giveaway runs from February 22 to February 28, 2014

Click HERE for all of our 2nd Anniversary Celebration Giveaways

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Death Times Two by CJ Ellisson and Boone Brux-a review

Death Times Two by CJ Ellisson and Boone Brux -a review

death times two

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DEATH TIMES TWO can also be found in the anthology PARANORMAL NIGHTS ebook box set for $3.99

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DEATH TIMES TWO
(The V.V. Inn 3.5)
by CJ Ellisson and Boone Brux

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 16, 2014

The V V Inn has a ghost problem. When the lurking specters draw the attention of Constantine, head of Grim Reaper Services, he calls in the only local who can return the remote resort to its former tranquility, Lisa Carron—resident Alaskan reaper.

Still new to the death gig, Lisa accepts the job. After all, how much trouble could one ghost be? Once at the hotel, she learns that not only is the inn full of the dearly departed, she’ll also be working for vampires. Throw in Asa, a young vamp hot enough to melt the Arctic ice, and Lisa realizes she’s way out of her element.

Asa didn’t know what to expect when told a reaper would be working on the property, but Lisa certainly wasn’t it. Blond and curvy, she’s very easy on the eyes. Tasked with helping her, Asa soon realizes that not only can she provide the dead a peaceful passing, but offer him solace in a way no other woman can.

REVIEW: DEATH TIMES TWO is the latest novella co-written by CJ Ellisson and Boone Brux. The storyline combines CJ’s V.V.Inn series and Boone Brux’s new Grim Reality. Grim ReaperLisa Carron’s latest assignment is to vanquish the spirits haunting the V.V. Inn but what she doesn’t expect is a handsome vampire who knows a thing or two about pleasing a woman.

The premises follows Lisa as she must send not one, not two but six spirits to the other side. With each encounter, Asa will reveal the story behind each of their deaths and how they are connected to the V.V.Inn. Reaping souls is never an easy job, but reaping the souls of the supernatural is more difficult and requires a few ‘tricks’ to prevent possession by the dead.

CJ Ellisson and Boone Brux have combined their writing talents for a roller coaster ride through the outback and underbelly of the V.V.Inn. The Alaskan cold is countered by the burning heat between Asa And Lisa in a story that will melt the ice around anyone’s heart. Death Times Two is a fun filled, action packed story that will leave you wanting more.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Avoiding Mr. Right Book Tour: Guest Post with C.J.Ellisson

Avoiding Mr.Right Book Tour: Guest Post with C.J.Ellisson

CJ 2

 

Black and pink Guest post

 

Thanks for having me on the blog today, Sandy! You always do a great job and I’m thrilled to be here.

 
I read all the time and I’m not sure I can list my top ten favorite books, so how about I list my top ten favorite series? These are authors I have followed for years and in most cases have probably bought everything they’ve ever written.
 
1) Zoe Sharp’s Charlie Fox series. The first book is the bloody and fast-paced Killer Instinct, where we first meet Charlie. I can attest each subsequent book gets better and better. Her writing is smooth, the action and fight scenes are stellar, and I have to force myself to put the books down and go to bed at night.
 
2) Charlaine Harris. Yes, we all know her True Blood series, but I’ve read everything she’s written, including her single titles. She’s a fantastic storyteller.
 
3) Patricia Briggs’s Mercy Thompson series. Shapeshifters at their best! I love that she married the hero and heroine and still wrote adventures for them. The trend to screw up the heroine’s love life gets really old after awhile, trust me.
 
4) Jim Butcher. His Harry Dresden books appeal to me more than his high fantasy stuff, but I love his humor and his characters.
 
5) Janet Evanovich. I lived in Jersey for twenty years, do I need to say anything else? Yes, I wish Stephanie would pick a man and settle down (I still think she could have adventures), but I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every book Evanovich has done in this series. 
 
6) Katherine Kerr, Land of Devvry series. High/epic fantasy at its best. Check them out if you enjoyed Tolkien’s LotR or Boone Brux’s Bringer and the Bane series.
 
7) Kim Harrison’s Hollow series. She killed off people I would have rater still lived, but her plots are always fresh and fast paced. I’ve enjoyed watching the characters evolve and think she’s done a fantastic job on the books.
 
8) Emma Holly. I’m pretty sure I’ve read over twenty titles of hers. She is the author that inspired me to write graphic sex scenes. I don’t think I’ve ever read a story from her that I didn’t like. From contemporary to fantasy, she delivers a hot read that leaves you gasping for more.
 
9) Laurell K Hamilton — despite my dislike of half a dozen or so of the later Anita Blake books, there is no denying this woman can weave a captivating tale. I’ve read her Merry Gentry and Nightseer books as well. She may not be an auto-buy for me anymore, but I still enjoy her writing.
 
10) P.N. Elrod. I haven’t seen anything new from her in a while, but her Vampire Files stories were unique and well done. An excellent paranormal mystery with great characters and terrific setting.
What are some of your favorite series? And don’t be afraid to dig deep and name some old ones, I sure did!

 

C.J. Ellisson USA Today bestselling author &
author of the 
New York Times bestselling book Vanilla on Top
Book Two in the Wild Side series, Avoiding Mr. Right, is now out!
Speaker at
 RWA Nationals in Atlanta, GA, July 17-21, 2013
Vampire Vacation ~ The Hunt ~ Big Game Death’s Servant

About the Author silver

C.J.Ellisson
C.J. Ellisson is the USA Today Bestselling author of the NYT Bestselling book, Vanilla on Top, the bestselling V V Inn series, and several erotica shorts. She lives in northern Virginia with her husband, two children, two dogs, and a fluffy black cat who makes her sneeze. Unlike most full-time authors, she’s also battling a severe chronic illness.

C.J. works daily to put her Lupus into remission and continues to fight numerous bacterial infections while her immune system slowly attacks her body. She turned to writing when she could no longer work outside the home and claims the escape of penning contemporary fantasy, erotica, and erotic romance has helped save her sanity.

Follow CJ: Website / Facebook/ Goodreads / Twitter

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Cover Reveals May 24, 2013

 

COVER REVEALS May 24, 2013

AMR final

 

TITLE: Avoiding Mr.Right

AUTHOR: C.J. Ellisson

SERIES: A Walk on the Wild Side

RELEASE DATE: June 20, 2013

 

 

 

BLURB: Carla Johnson thinks issuing orders to a lover will keep her heart safe and leave her in charge of her own destiny. Afraid for Carla’s future, her best friend Heather implores her to change her self-centered ways, handing her a list of love life mistakes to steer clear of:

1. Casual Sex
2. Friends with Benefits
3. Avoidance of Intimacy

Carla ignores the list—unwilling to face she might have a commitment problem. Until she invites a co-worker to her place one night. She instantly regrets the hum-drum sexual encounter and discourages the accountant from pursuing her.

Andy Shea refuses to become another lover the feisty blonde dumps. It’ll take a patient man with a strong hand to unlock Carla’s sexual awareness and win her heart. He’s up for the challenge to convince her he’s the one—and eager to prove this number cruncher won’t make a boring bedmate.

 

 

The Wicked.July 2013jpg

 

 

TITLE: The Wicked

AUTHOR: Thea Harrison

SERIES: A Novel of the Elder Races

RELEASE DATE: July 2013

 

 

 

Endless Night oc t 2013

 

TITLE: Endless Knight

AUTHOR: Kresley Cole

SERIES: Arcana Chronicles

RELEASE DATE: October 2013

 

 

 

 

Wild Wolf Feb 2014

 

TITLE: Wild Wolf

AUTHOR: Jennifer Ashley

SERIES: Shifters Unbound

RELEASE DATE: February 2014

 

 

 

Warrior Untamed Novem 2013

 

TITLE:  Warrior Untamed

AUTHOR:  Melissa Mayhue

SERIES: Warrior #3

RELEASE DATE:  November 2013

 

 

 

 

I Surrender July 2013

 

 

TITLE: I Surrender

AUTHOR: Monica James

SERIES: I Surrender Trilogy #1

RELEASE DATE: July 2013

 

 

Against-the-Ropes-May 2013

 

TITLE:  Against the Ropes

AUTHOR:  Carly Fall

SERIES:  N/A

RELEASE DATE:  May 29, 2013

 

 

 

After burn  aug 2013

 

TITLE :  Afterburn

AUTHOR:  Sylvia Day

SERIES:  Cosmo Red Hot Reads #1

RELEASE DATE:  July 2013

 

 

 

 

Aftershock Nov 2013

 

TITLE:  Aftershock

AUTHOR:  Sylvia Day

SERIES:  Cosmo Red Hot Reads #2

RELEASE DATE: November 2013

 

 

 

Alone January 2014

 

TITLE: Alone

AUTHOR: Kendra Elliot

SERIES: Bone Secrets

RELEASE: January 2014

 

 

 

After the Kiss - Lauren Layne

 

TITLE: After The Kiss

AUTHOR: Lauren Layne

SERIES: N/A

RELEASE DATE: August 2013

 

 

 

Runaway Queen May 2013

 

TITLE:  The Runaway Queen (YA)

AUTHOR:  Cassandra Clare/Maureen Johnson

SERIES:  The Bane Chronicles/The Mortal Instruments

RELEASE DATE:  May 2013

 

 

 

 

Playing the part

 

TITLE: Playing the Part

AUTHOR: Robin Covington

SERIES: N/A

RELEASE DATE: June 2013

 

 

 

The Spider Dec 2013

 

TITLE: The Spider

AUTHOR: Jennifer Estep

SERIES: Elemental Assassin

RELEASE DATE: December 2013

 

 

 

Conceal

 

TITLE: Conceal

AUTHOR: Juliana Stone

SERIES: The Barker Triplets #3

RELEASE DATE: June 2013

 

 

 

The last kiss goodbye Aug 2013

 

TITLE: The Last Kiss Goodbye

AUTHOR: Karen Robards

SERIES: Dr. Charlotte Stone #2

RELEASE DATE: August 2013

 

 

 

Revealed Oct 13

 

TITLE: Revealed

AUTHORS: PC & Kristin Cast

SERIES: House of Night (YA)

RELEASE DATE: October 2013

 

 

 

Big Bad Beast Oct 2013

 

TITLE: Big Bad Beast (re-release)

AUTHOR: Shelly Laurenston

SERIES: Pride and Pack

RELEASE DATE: October 2013

 

 

 

Her Ladyship's Curse aug 13

 

TITLE: Her Ladyships Curse

AUTHOR: Lynn Viehl

SERIES: Disenchanted and Co. Part 1

RELEASE DATE: August 2013

 

 

 

Falling Into Us June 2013

 

TITLE:  Falling Into Us

AUTHOR:  Jasinda Wilder

SERIES:  Falling Into You #2

RELEASE DATE:  June 2013 

 

 

 

Fit muscular man exercising with dumbbell

 

TITLE: The Winning Season

AUTHOR: Alison Packard

SERIES: N/A

RELEASE DATE: July 2013

 

 

 

Shattered Emotions

 

TITLE:  Shattered Emotions

AUTHOR:  Carrie Ann Ryan

SERIES:  Redwood Pack

RELEASE DATE: June 2013

 

 

 

The Sharpest Blade

 

 

TITLE: The Sharpest Blade

AUTHOR: Sandy Williams

SERIES: Shadow Reader #3

RELEASE DATE: December 2013

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