Tag Archives: Yasmine Galenorn

Souljacker (Lily Bound #1) by Yasmine Galenorn-a review

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Souljacker (Lily Bound #1) by Yasmine Galenorn-a review

Souljacker

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About the book:Release Date March 7, 2017

Lily O’Connell, a succubus, has put her unique talents to work. She owns Lily Bound, an elite sex salon in the Blood Night District of Seattle. When a client turns up dead in her club, and she hears the news that the Souljacker–an old tattoo-artist friend-turned-vampire, who was institutionalized years before–has escaped to reclaim his “artwork,” Lily knows she’s next on his list. With one of his tattoos on her thigh and nowhere else to turn, Lily hires Archer Desmond, a chaos demon and PI, to track the vampire down before he tracks her. But she didn’t expect to fall for Archer-and they say a succubus who falls in love will destroy the heart of the one she seeks to claim…

Review:
Souljacker begins with Lily finding a client dead in her salon and seeing a vampire misting towards her, only to stop and exit her home. (For clarity, she runs her salon in part of her home.) She calls the police and once they arrive, she’s told that it’s another vamp kill and that they’ll do what they can. The cop is a friend of Lily’s and tells her that these things aren’t high on their priority list and gives her the name of a private investigator that may be able to help. It doesn’t take long for another murder to occur and they soon discover that there is a common link: the killer is taking tattoos from the bodies of those he kills. They also discover that the tattoos were done by a former friend known as the Souljacker. Unfortunately said friend was attacked and turned by a vampire and instead of being staked, he was institutionalized at the behest of his father who is a very well connected businessman in town. The father also has ties to the leader of the vampires who is a money-hungry, power seeking vampire referred to as the Deadfather.

Once they realize that the Souljacker has escaped, Lily and her friends know that they are being targeted, as they have tattoos themselves that were done by the Souljacker himself. On top of that, the client who died in Lily’s salon was a Were and to say his wife is none too happy is a huge understatement. Lily finds herself on the receiving end of retaliation from the Were community more than once. Lily is also a member of Wynter’s court and seeks an audience with the Queen to let her know what has happened. Once there, Wynter tells her that she is to close her salon and is to enter into her service. Talk about a bad and life changing couple of days….

Yasmine Galenorn is known for the worlds she builds. I think this one will actually surprise some folks. The government is corrupt and seemingly in cahoots with the vampires. The vampires are thug-like in that they are almost like a mafia type organization and kill often and seem to feed on the fear as well as blood. I liked Lily. She is not a warrior-like character like most of the main female leads that Galenorn writes, but she is smart and cares about her friends deeply. I also liked Desmond Archer, the chaos demon PI. We don’t find out a lot about him, but I think he will have a back story that will be intriguing. The secondary characters are intriguing as well. As with any first story in a series, we don’t find out a lot about these characters, but I have a feeling they’ll play a huge part in the books to come. If you’re a fan of Galenorn and the worlds that she creates, you’ll definitely want to give this one a go. It did seem to drag a bit in places, but as I said, it is the first in the series, so I have high hopes for the next one. Well done, Yasmine Galenorn!

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Vickie M

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Shadow Silence (Whisper Hollow #2) by Yasmine Galenorn-Review, Interview & Giveaway

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 Shadow Silence (Whisper Hollow #2) by Yasmine Galenorn-Review, Interview and Giveaway

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SHADOW SILENCE
Whisper Hollow #2
by Yasmine Galenorn
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance
Release Date: September 27, 2016

Shadow Silence

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 27, 2016

Fifteen years ago, I ran away from Whisper Hollow, Washington, a small town on Crescent Lake in the Olympic Peninsula. But truth is, if you were born here, you can never really leave. I’m Kerris Fellwater, and I’m a spirit shaman. It’s my responsibility to drive the dead back to their graves, because around Whisper Hollow, people—and secrets—don’t always stay buried.

My best friend Peggin finds herself under a curse after she is almost taken by the Lady of the Lake, and the Unliving are determined to drag her back to the hungry waters. As Bryan—my guardian and mate—and I work to break the hex, we uncover a dark and violent mystery from the past. One the Hounds of Cú Chulainn will do anything to guard—even if they must summon a legion of the dead to destroy Whisper Hollow.

••••••••

REVIEW:

Shadow Silence begins shortly after book one ends. Kerris is settling into Whisper Hollow after a 15 year absence and is finding her place among the town’s protectors. When Kerris’ best friend, Peggin, finds out that she has thirty days to find another place to live (due to her landlord needing the house she rents), Kerris is less than pleased to find out that Peggin has her sights set on fixer-upper down by Crescent Lake. Even though Peggin knows that’s one of the most dangerous areas in town, she assures Kerris that she will be careful and on guard because she feels that the house is calling to her. Against Kerris’better judgement, she decides to support her friend’s decision.

When moving day arrives, it doesn’t take long for things to go very, very wrong. When Peggin disappears, Kerris assumes the worst. As she, Bryan (Kerris’ mate and guardian) and Deev (Peggin’s boyfriend) race to find Peggin, Kerris’ nightmare appears to be coming true. They find Peggin on the pier being dragged into the water by the Lady of the Lake. The trio is able to rescue Peggin from the Lady’s grasp, saving her from imminent death, only to discover that the Lady has marked Peggin, which doesn’t bode well for anyone. Especially Peggin. Kerris vows to Peggin that they will find a way to remove the Lady’s curse, but as they all soon discover, that’s easier said than done. Dark forces are making a move on Whisper Hollow and its residents, and it’s up to Kerris and the rest of the town’s protectors to try and find a way to stop them. As their allies gather, a traitor is discovered. Is he the only one? Who can they trust? Well, my friends, you’ll have to read to find out.

Shadow Silence is a great addition to this series. Yasmine Galenorn’s world building will grab you from the very beginning and have you turning the pages. Kerris is continuing to grow into her powers, discovering even more about herself as the days wear on. Bryan, her mate and guardian, continues to fascinate me. Peggin is the best friend whom everyone wishes they were lucky enough to have. However, it’s her boyfriend, Dr. Divine, aka Deev, that has me begging for more. He’s a steampunk artist type whom we know very little about, which adds to his draw. There’s a big story there and I can’t wait to know more about him. I said in my review of book one, Autumn Thorns, the secondary characters are multifaceted and complex. Shadow Silence has made me double down on that statement. I absolutely cannot wait to find out more about these intriguing characters and the dark forces that abound in this series. If you’re looking for a series that has wonderful world building, amazing characters, mystery and intrigue, as well as little romance thrown in, you will not go wrong with the Whisper Hollow series. Well done, Yasmine Galenorn. Very, very well done!!

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Vickie M

 

Interview-Black

CATCHING UP with Yasmine Galenorn

TRC: Hi Yasmine, and welcome back to The Reading Café.

Yasmine GalenornYG: Hi, and thank you for having me.
Follow: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

TRC: We would like to start with some background information. For anyone who has never read your books, would you please tell us something about yourself?

YG: Well, I have around 50 books out at this point, plus novellas and short stories in a number of anthologies. I’ve been writing since before I could print my name—always knew I wanted to be a writer from the time I was three years old. I’m also a priestess in the Craft, and have been a shamanic witch since 1980, when I was 19. I’m one of the crazy cat ladies, and am married to a computer techie. I deal with multiple food allergies and intolerances which make it difficult to travel safely, and as a result, I cook everything I eat—I don’t have the choice, so it’s a good thing I learned to cook early on.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

YG: One of my biggest influences was Ray Bradbury—I call him one of my “mortal gods”…his work taught me that prose can sing, words can move the heart. I also think Daphne du Maurier was an influence, Richard Adams, Anne McCaffrey, Joan D. Vinge, Tanith Lee, and so many other authors.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties have you encountered writing and publishing your stories?

YG: The biggest hurdle was getting published in the first place. Back in 1996, by the time I got my first contract (for one of my nonfiction books), I had seven books in the closet already (that will never be published) and had accumulated over 600 rejection slips from agents and publishers. But so many were encouraging that I just kept gritting my teeth and submitting.

Shadow SilenceTRC: Would you please tell us something about the premise of Shadow Silence, the second book in your Whisper Hollow series?

YG: Shadow Silence is the story of a curse, and a friendship. When the Lady of the Lake targets Peggin, Kerris and Bryan must do their best to break the curse and free her from a watery death. I actually recorded a video about Shadow Silence and the Whisper Hollow series, and you can find that on my Youtube Channel. Whisper Hollow haunts my dreams—the characters are so alive and vibrant to me, and the town so dark and shadowed.

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the WHISPER HOLLOW series?

YG: At least four—and I really think I’ll write more than that. However, since Berkley has opted not to continue the series, I will be releasing the rest after Shadow Silence as an indie author. The next Whisper Hollow books will be titled: Crow Song, and Morrígan’s Blade. As soon as Shadow Silence releases, I’ll be posting the covers for them—they’re gorgeous.

TRC: Are you able to give us a hint about your next Otherworld/Sisters of the Moon installment?

YG: I will also be releasing these as an indie author (in fact, Shadow Silence is my last release with Berkley Books and then I’m moving over to the indie side for the foreseeable future). Moon Shimmers, book 19 in the Otherworld Series, will be available in January 2017. I’m planning to release Harvest Song in January 2018, and my last OW book—Blood Bonds—in January 2019. I will be doing a cover reveal on my blog for all three books on October 4th! In Moon Shimmers, Camille will be taking her place as the Queen of Dusk & Twilight.

TRC: How do you keep the plot(s) unpredictable without sacrificing content and believability?

YG: *grinning* I dunno…I just write the stories that appear in my head. I guess by now, with over fifty books out, it’s second nature.

TRC: When writing (or outlining) a story line do your characters direct the writing, or do you direct the characters?

YG: The characters lead the way, definitely. I long ago stopped trying to force plotlines because it always comes out stilted. I give the characters their head and they lead me where they need to go.

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

YG: I bounce ideas off my husband and my assistants at times. Mostly, my subconscious does its little trick of mixing up everything and then spewing it out at me in one big lump. I stare at the creative hairball sitting at my feet, and then start trying to sculpt it. (Told you I’m the crazy cat lady).

TRC: Do you believe the cover image plays a deciding factor for many readers in the process of selecting a book or new series to read?

YG: Covers are vital, which is why I’m so glad I’ve found incredible cover designers for my indie work. Wait till you see the covers for the next two Whisper Hollow books—brilliant and beautiful.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

YG: I’m finishing up Fury’s Magic, the second in my new indie series—the Fury Unbound Series. Book one—Fury Rising—came out in July and did very well, so I’m extremely pleased about that. I plan on releasing Fury’s Magic in November.

I’m also starting to promote two anthologies I’m in—Taming the Vampire will be coming out on October 31st, and it contains the prequel to a new series I’ll be introducing next year—the Bewitching Bedlam series. And Silver Belles will be coming out in late October as well, with one of the few contemporary romance short stories I’ve ever written in it—The Longest Night. Silver Belles is a winter-holiday themed anthology.

Actually, I have a number of surprises in the works. I’ll be re-releasing the entire Chintz ‘n China series this autumn with lovely new covers and a few additions. Really, it’s best to sign up for my newsletter if you want to keep informed, because there are going to be a lot of things going on in my various worlds over the next 18 months.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

YG: Just that I’m grateful for all my readers who have followed me on my adventures—and who are making the switch with me as I change over from the old guard to the new guard, so to speak. I appreciate it. I love that my readers love my worlds, and I really appreciate the support they give in return.

TRC: Thank you Yasmine for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the release of SHADOW SILENCE. We wish you all the best.

giveaway

The Reading Cafe and Yasmine’s publisher are offering a paper copy of SHADOW SILENCE to ONE (1) lucky commenter 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.

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8. Giveaway open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from October 6-10, 2016

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Flight From Mayhem (Fly By Night #2) by Yasmine Galenorn-a review

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Flight from Mayhem (Fly by Night #2) by Yasmine Galenorn- a review

Flight from Mayhem

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About the book: Release Date August 2, 2016

I’m Shimmer, a blue dragon shifter. Thanks to a mistake, I was exiled from the Dragon Reaches and sentenced to work for gorgeous, exasperating Alex Radcliffe, a vampire who owns the Fly by Night Magical Investigations Agency. Every time I turn around, somebody’s trying to kill us. But you know what they say: All’s fair in love and bounty hunting…

A serial killer is stalking the elderly Fae of Seattle, draining their bank accounts before brutally murdering them. When Chase Johnson asks for our help, Alex and I discover that the sociopath is also a doppelganger—able to change shape to match his victim’s deepest desires. Our friend and colleague Bette volunteers to act as bait, but the plan goes dangerously awry. Now, unless we find her first, she’s about to face her worst nightmare.

•••••••••••••••

REVIEW: Flight from Mayhem begins with all kinds of goings on. Someone in training, and unsupervised, accidentally let something horrible in through a portal she opened; the house across from Shimmer is haunted and she wants to help a trapped ghost; Alex’s ex, Glenda, is out for revenge; Tonya, a friend of Shimmer’s, is having a hard time and she thinks she’s being stalked, and, oh yeah………there’s a serial killer on the loose killing members of the Elder Fae and taking their fortunes. As the Fly by Night team goes from one crisis to another, one thing is for certain: They ARE a team and will move mountains to help each other and those they take on as clients.

Flight from Mayhem is a wonderful addition to the Fly by Night series. I love how Galenorn portrays her characters’ strengths and vulnerabilities. Shimmer is coming into her own and figuring out her path in a way that will be relatable to everyone who reads her story. Her boss, and now boyfriend, Alex, may have a hero complex but you can feel his need to help others, sometimes to his own detriment. The other team members, Bette and Ralph, are just as honorable and steadfast as the others and round out a wonderful ensemble cast. There are secondary characters that will have you cheering and jeering, as well as laughing out loud at times.

There are also crossovers, of sort, from Galenorn’s Otherworld Series; Chase Johnson and Yugi from the FH-CSI make several appearances; Roman, the leader of the Vampire Nation is shown and the D’Artigo sisters are mentioned, but don’t actually show up. This was bound to happen due to both series being set in Seattle and it blends perfectly.

Galenorn has once again written a story full of suspence, drama and wonderfull characters. The world building is as phenomenal as it is intriguing. We find out a bit more about Ralph in this one. We also find out a bit more about Bette, but as I said in my review of Flight From Death, I want MORE of Bette’s story and you will too after you read Flight from Mayhem. If you’re a fan of paranormal stories chocked full of intriguing characters that bring a little romance, a little intrigue and a lot of action, you will never go wrong by reading anything by this author. Well done, Yasmine Galenorn! Very, very well done!!!!

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Vickie M

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Darkness Raging (Otherworld/Sisters of the Moon #18) by Yasmine Galenorn-Review & Giveaway

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Darkness Raging (Otherworld / Sisters of the Moon #18) by Yasmine Galenorn-Review and Giveaway

Darkness Raging Banner

Darkness Raging
Otherworld / Sisters of the Moon #18
by Yasmine Galenorn
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal romance
Release Date: February 2, 2016

 

Darkness Raging

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We’re the D’Artigo sisters: savvy half-human, half-Fae ex-operatives for the Otherworld Intelligence Agency. My sister Camille is a wicked-good witch. Delilah is a two-faced werecat and a Death Maiden. And me? I’m Menolly, a vampire married to a gorgeous werepuma. As the war in Otherworld arrives, Blood Wyne, Queen of the Vampires, summons me. Apparently, my position as Roman’s consort entails more than I imagined…

As the Demon Lord Shadow Wing creates his own sinister version of the Keraastar Knights—the guardians of the spirit seals—to destroy the portals and free himself from the Sub Realms, his ally, the necromancer Telazhar, leads an assault from Otherworld into the streets of Seattle. And my sisters and I are caught dead center.

Then, on the eve of war, my wife, Nerissa, is captured. The enemy demands we surrender the rest of the spirit seals, or they are going to kill her. I will do anything to save her. Even if it means leading an army of vampires into the very depths of the Subterranean Realms.

••••••••••

REVIEW: Darkness Raging begins with all hell breaking loose with all kinds of rogue portals appearing and all kinds of beastly beings pouring through. Of course, Menolly and her sisters, along with their crew, are called in to help contain and destroy the beings and the portals themselves. As Shadow Wing seems to be stepping up his game with the help of his dangerous ally Telazhar, the unthinkable happens. Menolly’s wife, Nerissa, is kidnapped and taken down into the Subterranean Realms where she is held captive.

The sisters call in favors to aid them in their search and planned rescue for Nerissa. As the threat of war seems inevitable, they know that the party entering the Sub Realms may be futile, but they also know that they will lose Menolly to the dark side of her vampire nature if they don’t get Nerissa back. Decision made, Menolly and a surprise ally, along with a few others, head down to rescue Nerissa. Little did they know that what was about to transpire would change everything. The Spirit Seals come into play in a HUGE way and the tables are turned. The question is, are they turned in a good way or in a bad way?

FINALLY!!!!! Darkness Raging takes us back to what started this series in the beginning. The search for the Spirit Seals. The tides are turning for everyone in this series. And, I mean everyone. Major changes for Menolly happen in this installment. And, for Nerissa. With Camille set to become a Fae Queen and having to move out of the home she and her sisters have shared since coming Earthside, the sense of dread that they feel at being separated is palpable. I’ve kind of complained that I had no idea what Galenorn’s end game was with this series, but I think with this installment, it may have come into view. Awesome! Awesome! Awesome!!! Well done, Yasmine Galenorn!! Very well done.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Vickie

giveaway

In celebration of Yasmine Galenorn’s newest book DARKNESS RAGING (February 2nd, 2016) we’re giving away the following items in a fabulous Yasmine-themed giveaway:

ONE copy of Panther Prowling
ONE copy of Priestess Dreaming
ONE set of character art cards (9 cards total in one set)

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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.

NOTE: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging onto the site, please refresh the page (at the top of your computer).

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

3. Please follow Yasmine Galenorn on Facebook.

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. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

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8. Giveaway open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from February 2-6, 2016

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Autumn Thorns by Yasmine Galenorn – Review, Excerpt and Giveaway

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Autumn Thorns by Yasmine Galenorn – Review, Excerpt and Giveaway

 

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Autumn ThornsAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description:
Fifteen years ago, I ran away from Whisper Hollow, Washington, a small town on Crescent Lake in the Olympic Peninsula. But truth is, if you were born here, you can never really leave. I’m Kerris Fellwater, and when I returned, I inherited my grandmother’s house—and her gift. As a spirit shaman, it’s my responsibility to drive the dead back to their graves, because around Whisper Hollow, people—and secrets—don’t always stay buried.

When I was little, I was told my mother ran off. But now it looks like she was murdered. With the help of my mysterious neighbor Bryan, we begin to unravel the mystery of her disappearance, and in doing so, unearth a dark force seeking to bury Whisper Hollow. Now I must work with the dead, rather than against them, because our enemy will do whatever she can to destroy the town, and she means to start with me.


Review:

Kerris had made a life for herself in Seattle, but when she started seeing signs, she knew she would have to uproot her life once more and head home to Whisper Hollow. When she received word that her beloved grandmother had died, she knew things would never be the same.

Upon Kerris’ arrival in Whisper Hollow, she’s not prepared for what awaits. Or is she? As she delves into her duties as spirit shaman, she soon figures out that things are not, nor have they ever been, as they seem. From her grandfather’s disdain for her, to the disappearance of her mother, to the group that she is fated to be a part of, Kerris embarks on a path to not only uncover the closely guarded secrets, but to unravel mysteries that surround Whisper Hollow. Even though she is met with resistance, Kerris faces some of her biggest fears with her newly formed inner circle and the results are otherworldly……

I read a couple of other series by Yasmine Galenorn, and really enjoy them. But this book renewed my love for the worlds that she builds. With Autumn Thorns being the first book in a new series, there is a lot of world building and introductions to the main, as well as supporting, characters. That’s where I got excited. The characters are multifaceted and complex without being too over the top and hard to follow. Kerris is a wonderful character who meets the challenges she’s handed head on. Bryan moves mountains to keep her safe and has a great back story, which I hope to find out more in future books. The possibilities are endless in this new series, from Kerris’ best friend to the spirits that guard different realms, and everyone in between, I can’t wait to read more. I LOVED THIS BOOK! Well done, Yasmine Galenorn. Very, very well done!

Reviewed by Vickie

Copy provided by Publisher

 

Excerpt beige

 

As I turned onto Bramblewood Way, the fog rose thick and fast to surround the car. It smothered the road in one quick swoop. I slammed on the brakes as a dark figure vaulted out from the trees on the side of the road, loping into the street. It looked for all the world like a huge wolf, hunched and misshapen. Another figure followed—this one human—and I skidded to the side as I tried to avoid hitting him. As I brought my CR-V to a halt, I lurched forward against the seat belt, almost hitting the steering wheel.

My ribs felt bruised and I was panting but otherwise unharmed. I gripped the wheel with one hand as I fumbled to shift the SUV into park.

What the hell had just happened?

Hands shaking, I slowly unfastened my seat belt, then reached beneath the seat for the crowbar I kept stashed there. Being a single woman in a big city, I had learned how to defend myself with whatever I had at hand. After a moment, I also grabbed the switchblade I kept hidden in my glove box and shoved it into my jacket pocket. Hesitating another moment—there could be anything out there from a coyote to a serial killer—finally, I opened the door and stepped out of the car.

I stood there, scanning the road around me, the crowbar clutched in one hands, while I kept the other free and near the knife in my jacket. I knew how to throw a punch, and I could use a baseball bat with decent effectiveness, but it all depended on who was on the receiving end.

The road was silent, a hush of fog. My house was a block and a half away, but right now it felt as good as a mile. As my breath coalesced into a cloud of white vapor, I tried to sort out whether I had actually hit anyone. No body in the road—check. No sign of what dog . . . wolf . . . whatever had launched itself in my path—check.

“Are you all right?”

Startled, I whirled around, raising the crowbar. To my left stood a man, around five eleven. He was lean and fit, and so close he could have grabbed my arm. I took one deliberate step back.

What the hell? I hadn’t seen any sign of him—or anybody else—when I’d stepped out of the car. Nor had I heard him approach, and I had good ears. “Where did you come from? Who are you?”

He held up his hands, gesturing to the raised crowbar. “I promise, you won’t need that. I’m not going to hurt you.” He took a step back and kept his hands out in plain sight.

As I slowly lowered the makeshift weapon, I looked him over. His wheat-colored hair was in a casually tousled shag, reaching his collar in back and on the sides. A well-trimmed beard and mustache shrouded his face. But something about his eyes caught my attention. I realized that, even this close, under the streetlamps, I couldn’t tell what color they were. And yet his gaze pierced through the fog. I frowned. There was something familiar about him . . . but I knew we hadn’t met.

He ventured a smile, still holding his hands where I could see them. “Allow me to introduce myself—and apologize for startling you.” His voice was soft but firm. I had the feeling he could sing with that voice. “My name is Bryan Tierney. I’m your neighbor.”

Neighbor? When I’d left Whisper Hollow, the estate next door had been empty and I hadn’t realized somebody lived there now.

I gazed at him calmly, but inside, alarm bells were going off—but I couldn’t tell what they were warning me about. I wasn’t afraid of him, not really. I didn’t sense danger from him, and he most definitely wasn’t a spirit—but something was tugging at the edges of my consciousness.

about the author

Yasmine Galenorn

Hi, I’m New York Times, USA TODAY, and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author Yasmine Galenorn.  In April 2012, I won a Career Achievement Award in Urban Fantasy at the Romantic Times Convention.

I write urban fantasy/paranormal romance for Berkley: the Otherworld Series, (aka Sisters of the Moon Series), the upcoming spin-off series in the Otherworld altaverse–the Fly By Night Series, and the upcoming Whisper Hollow paranormal romance/suspense series. I also wrote the Indigo Court Series.

In the past, I’ve also written a paranormal mystery series (the Chintz ‘n China Series) for Berkley Prime Crime, a short-lived mystery series (the Bath & Body Series) under the name of India Ink, again for Berkley Prime Crime, and eight metaphysical nonfiction books (Llewellyn Publications and Crossing Press).

I’m represented by Meredith Bernstein of the Meredith Bernstein Literary Agency–I adore my agent and am thrilled to have her on my side.

And yes, I’m a shamanic witch and am considered an elder in the Pagan community, having been in the Craft since February 29th (yes, leap year day), 1980.  I walk an eclectic path and consider my life to be a blend of teacups and tattoos–the former in my china closet, the latter on my skin–I’m heavily inked.  I collect teacups, teapots, Old Country Roses china (Royal Albert), antlers and skulls (of the non-human variety), daggers and crystals.  And of course, my bookshelves are overflowing with books.  I cannot walk out of a bookstore without buying at least one book.  My TBR pile is huge!

I’m a theatre major, a 1983 graduate of the Evergreen State College (Olympia WA).  I started college when I was fifteen, skipping high school.  I took extra time to finish because of money considerations and a hiatus when I was 17, to hitchhike to California where I lived with one of my sisters for a brief time.

On Beltane, 1993 (May 1st) I married Samwise and we’re still very happily married. We are the parents of one senior kitty and three young cats. Three of our senior gurlz went over the Bridge a few years ago and we still miss them terribly. We reside in the Seattle WA area.

Because so many people ask, you pronounce my first name this way: Yaz-mihn (NOT Jasmine–it’s a “Y”, not a “J”) and our last name is pronounced: Gal-eh-norn. The accent is on the first syllable. Interesting trivia: Samwise and I created our last name together after we got married. At first, he took my last name, but I decided I didn’t want to be stuck with my stepfather’s last name forever.  So we decided to construct a name that would be ours alone and that would mean something to us.  We created our last name out of the Elvish in LOTR. Galenorn means Green Tree in Elvish, went to court, and legalized it. And yes, Samwise is his *real* name.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

 

Giveaway beige

Yasmine’s publisher is offering a paper copy of AUTUMN THORNS to ONE (1) lucky commenter 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. Please LIKE and Follow Yasmine Galenorn on Facebook

4. Please FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on TSU

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

6. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

8. Giveaway open to USA only.

9. Giveaway runs from October 27-30, 2015

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Flight From Death by Yasmine Galenorn – Review & Giveaway

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Flight From Death by Yasmine Galenorn – Review & Giveaway

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Flight From Death
Fly by Night #1
by Yasmine Galenorn
Genre: paranormal
Release Date: July 7, 2015

flight From DeathAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description:
I’m Shimmer, a blue dragon shifter. Thanks to a mistake, I was exiled from the Dragon Reaches and sentenced to work for Alex Radcliffe, a vampire who owns the Fly by Night Magical Investigations Agency. Now, not only do I have to adapt to Earthside culture, but every time I turn around, somebody’s trying to kill us. And worse, Alex is as gorgeous as he is exasperating. But you know what they say: All’s fair in love and bounty hunting…

When an old friend of Alex contacts him about a haunting at the High Tide Bed & Breakfast in Port Townsend, Washington, we think we’re on a simple ghost hunt. But our investigation quickly transforms into a deadly fight as we uncover an eighty-year-old murder, a cursed house, and a dark force trapping the spirits within. To stop impending disaster we must break the curse and lay the angry spirits to rest.

Review:

Flight From Death begins with Alex accepting a case from Patrick, an old friend, whose bed and breakfast opening has been delayed because of ghostly activities that need to stop in order for him to feel that his guests are safe. Alex informs Shimmer and Ralph that they will be heading out the next night, which surprises Shimmer, as this is the first case that she has been invited to tag along. After a few ferry debacles, they arrive in Port Townsend and the feeling of heaviness and dread is almost immediate. Once they arrive at Patrick’s, it doesn’t take long for things to go awry and leave everyone a bit on edge. As they delve into the history of the house and the land on which it sits, the level of paranormal activity increases.

It doesn’t take the team long to enlist the help of a local witch to help with freeing the ghosts trapped in house. However, once they start down that path, they realize that there is something dark that has trapped the ghosts. Add to that the discovery of an old murder and they know they’ve got their work cut out for them. Oh, and the house is cursed as well. So much for a simple ghost hunt……..

Once they try and exorcise the ghosts and the dark entity, things really get hopping. Not only does it not work, it has enraged the entity that has trapped the ghosts and he turns that rage on to all of them. They end up going to a spiritwalker to learn more about what exactly they are dealing with. When they devise a plan, things once again don’t go as planned. Then, they get down to business. What follows is an action packed and suspenseful series of events that will leave you wondering if they’ll ever be able to accomplish their mission. You’ll also be rooting for Alex and Shimmer as they start to explore their mutual attraction to one another.

Flight From Death is another very well written story by Yasmine Galenorn. If you’re a fan of her Otherworld series, you’ll definitely love this one as well. Galenorn does a very good job of building the world in which these characters’ stories will be told. Alex is their boss and leader who keeps things rolling. Shimmer is still trying to find her way Earthside and is starting to build a life for herself. There is still a lot to learn about her which I think will have a huge impact on the overall story. Ralph is the resident geek (and werewolf) who is always in the fray. That leaves Bette, the office manager who keeps it all tied together.   You will fall in love with her immediately, and out of all of the characters, hers is the story that I most want to read. We’re also introduced to a few friends of theirs along the way in this book that I think will end up having a big impact as well. Galenorn, more than any author I’ve ever read, has a cast of characters so diverse that you’d think that it would be overwhelming. But, the way she writes makes it easy to follow and you feel that you get to know about each species, for lack of a better word. Her world building in this was phenomenal.

If you’re looking for a fresh, new series that has a great cast of “otherworldly” characters that has suspense and a little romance, this one is definitely for you. I can’t wait to see whose book is next! Well done, Yasmine Galenorn! Very well done!

Review by Vickie

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

giveaway

Yasmine’s publisher is offering a paper copy of FLIGHT FROM DEATH to ONE (1) lucky commenter 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. Please LIKE and Follow Yasmine Galenorn on Facebook

4. Please FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on TSU

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

6. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

8. Giveaway open to USA only.

9. Giveaway runs from July 14-17, 2015

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Panther Prowling (Otherworld Novel) by Yasmine Galenorn-Review and Giveaway

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Panther Prowling (Otherworld Novel) by Yasmine Galenorn-Review and Giveaway

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Panther Prowling
Otherworld/Sisters of the Moon #17
by Yasmine Galenorn
Release Date: January 27, 2015
Genre: adult, contemporary, fantasy, paranormal

Panther Prowling Jan 15

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

ABOUT THE BOOK:

We’re the D’Artigo sisters: savvy half-human, half-Fae operatives for the Otherworld Intelligence Agency. My sister Camille is a wicked-good witch with three gorgeous husbands. Menolly is a vampire married to a werepuma. And me? I’m Delilah, a two-faced werecat and a Death Maiden. While the war in Otherworld is expanding, so is my newly renamed PI business. And my next case is about to make life very interesting…

While waiting for Shadow Wing’s next move, I decide to revamp my ragtag PI agency into the Cat’s Eye Investigations firm. My first client turns out to be our cousin Daniel. During the grand reopening for the Wayfarer, he shows up while being chased by a rampaging ghost. Daniel has procured a rare and valuable sword, and a ring of ghostly warriors comes attached to it. Protectors of the soul trapped within it, the spirits are out to stop anybody who threatens the weapon. As my sisters and I unravel the history of the sword, we quickly realize that the entity locked within the blade is a dangerous king from times gone by—and he’s about to break free and try to recover his crown…

•••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: Panther Prowling begins with the sisters giving Camille a surprise birthday party and the newly rebuilt and renovated Wayfarer, which was destroyed by fire in a previous book. And, wouldn’t you know it? Just as they party is getting started, havoc is wreaked as their cousin, Daniel, runs into the bar being chased and ultimately body slammed by a Viking ghost. Yep………………things got weird quickly. Once they restore order and are able to talk to Daniel, they figure out that they have another mysterious case on their hands. Again. Once they start unraveling the many details of this case, things really get interesting. And dangerous.

On top of their new case, they also have things going on personally that will leave them questioning everything. Delilah finds out more about her twin sister who died at birth, and of whom she only found out about in the last year or two. Let’s just say that things weren’t as clear cut as Delilah and her sisters had thought, and the revelations will explain a lot. Menolly and Nerissa have hit a bit of a rough patch in their relationship, but are determined to make things right. And Camille gets BIG NEWS. As in life altering HUGE news that could change the dynamics of everything.

Through it all, they are endlessly battling the evil creatures that are hell bent on breaking through, and not only destroying them, but destroying the world as they know it. As usual, their whole crew, as well as a new ally or two, rallies around them as they try to defeat their latest nemesis. Will they be victorious? Well, you’ll have to read to find out!

Panther Prowling is a fast paced, action filled installment in Yasmine Galenorn’s Otherworld Series. Each book in the series is written from one of the sister’s points of view, in order: Camille, Delilah and Menolly. Even though this one was Delilah’s book, the lines are starting to blur as to whom the books are about due to the fact that there is so much going on now. The battle against Shadow Wing still rages on. War in Otherworld is still being waged. And things aren’t much better Earthside. They are constantly being called out to fix wrongs that no one else can handle. As I’ve said before, the sisters are destined for BIGGER things. I just wish I knew what the endgame was! Ha! I can’t wait for the next installment, as it seems things are rolling faster now towards said endgame. Very well done, Yasmine Galenorn.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Vickie M.

giveaway

The Reading Cafe is offering a paper copy of PANTHER PROWLING to ONE (1) lucky commenter 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. Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK and click GET NOTIFICATIONS

4. Please FOLLOW us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

6. Please LIKE us on TSU for an additional entry.

7. Follow Yasmine Galenorn Fanpage on Facebook.

8. Giveaway is open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from January 29-February 2, 2015

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Priestess Dreaming by Yasmine Galenorn-Review and Giveaway

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Priestess Dreaming by Yasmine Galenorn-Review and Giveaway

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Priestess Dreaming
Otherworld/Sisters of the Moon #16
by Yasmine Galenorn
Genre: adult, paranormal, fantasy
Release Date:September 30, 2014

Priestess Dreaming.

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: We’re the D’Artigo sisters: savvy half-human, half-Fae operatives for the Otherworld Intelligence Agency. My sister Delilah is a two-faced werecat and a Death Maiden. Menolly is a vampire married to a gorgeous werepuma. And me? I’m a Moon witch married to three gorgeous husbands, and I’m about to journey through the veils to search for a long lost legend…

With the war in Otherworld raging, the Queen of Shadow and Night summons me to her court. Aeval orders me to embark on a hunt through the mists to find an ancient ally she once knew. I must seek out The Merlin and wake him from his long sleep. But Morgaine and Bran are along for the journey, and the pair pose a threat to both me and my quest. Now, surrounded by danger on all sides, I must pray they are allies rather than enemies, as we undertake a perilous search through the labyrinth of time.

••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW:

The D’Artigo sisters just can’t catch a break. The war is still raging in Otherworld, and the battle with Shadow Wing is ongoing. Now, something is awakening ancient beings that threaten the fragile balance between the worlds and Camille is summoned to search for The Merlin, as he’s the only one who can aid Camille in destroying the evil that is about to unleash hell on them all. And, to top it all off, she has to take people that she doesn’t trust into the world of the Elder Fae as back up, along with a few of her own that she does trust.

Of course, there are things going on at home. Someone opened a rogue portal in their living room of all places and pixies are running amuck in downtown Seattle. Once they take care of those two things, they head out to find The Merlin. They face a daunting task to say the least. It’s a very unforgiving landscape and they encounter creatures that do not want them to find that which they seek. But once they find The Merlin, a series of events unfold that change a lot of things for a lot of people. Oh, and while they’re there, the full moon rises and Camille is swept into the hunt with the Moon Mother. And what she encounters leaves her devastated. However, once they are able to make it back home with The Merlin in tow, they have but a few minutes to prepare for battle with the evil creature that has broken free from his prison. Like I said, they just can’t seem to catch a break………

There is a lot going on in this series. It started out with their battle against Shadow Wing and trying to secure the spirit seals, but has evolved into much more. You feel that all of the sisters are destined to be more than what they are. Not that what they are isn’t impressive enough. But they each grow stronger with each story. And, Camille, in my opinion, is destined for something BIG. I always love the fact that we get to see all of the regulars in each of the books, but to be honest, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed with all of new things going on. It’s like the original battle with Shadow Wing has taken a backseat and trying to keep up with whom and what they’re fighting is getting more complicated as things progress.

With that said, I’m vested in these characters and their journey and know that Galenorn will do them justice. I only wish that I could see where all of this is headed. I do love the main characters and the prominent secondary characters and can’t wait to see what they face next. There is love and loss in this one, loss that I didn’t see coming, and I know you won’t either. Well done Yasmine Galenorn.

Reviewed by Vickie M

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Giveaway

Yasmine’s publisher is offering a paper copy of PRIESTESS DREAMING to one lucky commenter 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.Please  LIKE us on FACEBOOK and click get notifications.

4.Please  LIKE us on Twitter

5. Please LIKE us on GOODREADS 

6. Please LIKE Yasmine Galenorn on Facebook.

7. Giveaway is U.S. only

8. Giveaway runs from October 1-6, 2014

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