JM Powers and Basket of Hope

Welcome to the two of you.
J.M.: Hi there, thanks for having us. Machias feels a bit out of place in this era, but I thinks he’s okay now.
Machias: Ah, nonsense—what is that outside yon window?
J.M. : It’s a car, Machias.* Shrugs* Told ya...okay, on with the interview. I’ll do edits on my next book while you two chat. If you need any translations, let me know.
Machias, we hear that you’ve been ordered to pick a bride, do you have anyone in mind?
Aye, the maiden I love is not privy to my feelings yet. Kara is fair of face, and she all but takes my senses when she waits on my family. Ye may believe a scullery maid is a poor choice, nevertheless, my heart always knew of my love for her. Soon, I intend to make my feelings known—to everyone.
That possible choice must be causing some stress in the family, will you get your father’s blessing?
My father is a cruel man, but I know in his own twisted way, he thinks he knows what is best for the kingdom. He keeps parading the maidens he deems pure witches. I simply must show him Kara is best for me. That shall prove difficult, but I shall not budge. Mayhap my mother shall sway him—or even help me plan something behind his back.
If Kara agrees, won’t it put you both in great danger?
Alas, I know not if Kara shall take my offer. She thinks herself unworthy. If I deem she is any danger, I shall use use all my powers to protect her. However, in my eyes, naught can be more dangerous than my father’s incessant interference with matters that involve my heart. I hope that he dares not stand in my way, or he shall end up on the wrong side of a spell.
I understand that your bride should be a witch, and Kara hasn’t shown any signs of being one has she?
Ah, but she has! From the time we were children, I showed her little spells, in the hope that perchance she would feel comfortable around magic. But alas, her fear kept her from believing in herself. Her mother is an evil witch, and I suppose Kara feared she is the same. (I cannot ascertain, for she refuses to even of it.) Through the years, Kara denied herself, until she actually believes she is naught more than a mortal.
It’s all so romantic, can you protect Kara from all the dangers that surround you both?
I shall always protect Kara. Though evil is gaining power with each sunset, combining pure magic and true love in a marriage shall overcome even the greatest danger.
Your author JM Powers seems very nice, to tell your story in Basket of Hope, how did you meet her?
Ah, J.M. and I have been friends for all time. Kara and I share a space in JM’s mind with other characters. Every once in awhile, she creates a world for us to live in.
Does she have other books that readers might enjoy as well?
She has another magical world in Stellar Surprise. Kara and Zoe (the fairy in Stellar Surprise) are great friends. (However, Zoe is a bit...ahem, more experienced, so I am a bit relieved she is in another book.) J.M. wrote Stellar Surprise back in 2009 under a different pen name: Summer Falls. (That was the naughty J.M.)
My author is also expecting a new release this year. It is a full-length novel: Jewel of Ramstone, a medieval romance.
She has book trailers of all books on her blog.
Where can we find Ms. Powers?
Hopefully, she can be found in the hearts of her readers! Ah! So I suppose you mean where can we find her on that modern thing called the internet? One moment...*pulls out parchment and breaks the seal* I shall read it to you...I suppose you modern mortals can make sense of this:
Blog: http://jmpowersromance.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002182850652
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/JMPowersAuthor
And where can we find her books?
With Breathless Press Publishing:
Basket of Hope link: http://www.breathlesspress.org/Book/348
Stellar Surprise link: http://www.breathlesspress.org/Book/138
Machias: My thanks for allowing me to visit and speak of my world, ‘twas a wonderful experience. I hope to meet you again in Basket of Hope.

Blurb
All Hallows Eve looms near, and encroaching evil shall have its way if a marriage filled with true love and pure magic does not take place. Machias must choose a witch, something Kara never hopes to be.

Machias' father will do anything to ensure his son choses wisely—Lies, beatings and even an attempt to soil Kara's innocence is not past the man.

Machias' marriage announcement promises to burn Kara's hope to cinders...unless something truly magical happens at the All Hallows Eve Ball.

Basket of Hope-JMPowers—long excerpt 963 words

The thump of Thaddeus’ sword faded as Kara's gaze traveled from him to Machias. Coveting his body, she perused it, until she reached his buttocks, resting her gaze upon the curve and firmness, and following down to where it met his legs. Leather hugging breeches accented his form, caressing his lean muscles like a lover, and pronouncing his sinewy limbs with each of his movements. The way the sun glistened against Machias made her wish she could conjure magic, if only to make his clothes fall away. Kara squinted, trying to imagine Machias naked while she slipped another berry in her mouth. Naught could possibly compare to his beauty … in her imagination anyway. Her heart ached with love, and her body seemed to vibrate with the want of him. Each morn, the memory of his stolen kiss so many years ago, still remained her first waking thought.
Kara dabbed her brow with Stella's apron, feeling her cheeks heat at the reminder of her solitary attentions while fantasizing about Machias. Though she prayed for forgiveness, Kara could not help but touch herself as soon as she woke from her wanton dreams, her body still trembling with need. Stella caught her once and told her she needed to offer a village boy a good rut to ease her tension. Kara found the suggestion disgusting.
"I shall die a virgin," she whispered. Ah, if he but knew how I love him.
The men seemed to be done with practice. Machias rested his arm on the top of the pell talking to his brother. Her heart skittered when Machias gaze met hers from over Thaddeus' shoulder, seeming to feel her scrutiny.
Hoping her expression belied her thoughts Kara quickly turned her back to him and resumed picking berries. She concentrated on each tiny orb within the fruit, forcing innocent thoughts in the stead of reckless ones.
She glanced at the checked pattern on the apron, spurring a childhood memory of a game called Queek. Though his father, Lord Tanner, discouraged their play, Machias would meet her in the meadow, hiding the checkered cloth underneath his tunic. Out of sight, they would spread it onto the ground, and collect small stones. After guessing whether the stone would land on dark or light, they would toss it upon the cloth. She suspected Machias peeked, especially if she began to call Queek too often, but he never admitted it. She did not care if she won or lost. She simply relished the time spent with him. Over the years, Kara began to love him more than the game.
When Machias reached ten and five, bordering on the verge of manhood, he departed for training. He kissed her, among the first rays of sunrise, whispering his fare thee well. Be it innocent, 'twas a true kiss, and though her heart was young, it knew of her love for him even then.
Adrift with loneliness, Kara awaited his return for six years. She would inconspicuously lean closer while serving the evening meal, hoping to hear snippets of Machias' life through his parents' conversation, but they did not say much in her presence.
She bordered on giddiness when Machias returned. Although she had grown into womanhood, Kara was ill prepared to see the difference in him. Ah, what a true shock when naught of the lad she knew entered the gates, but a man. Muscles, perfectly sculpted as the marble statues in the gardens, seemed to flex with the smallest of movement. His angular jaw, sporting a hint of a beard under his dark complexion, only accented his rugged looks. Moreover, his voice…his voice, deep and tender at the same time, defined a grown man. Had it not been for the single dimple on his left cheek when he smiled, Kara often wondered if she would have recognized him at all.
At first, Kara believed he had the same issue with her, for the most attention he paid was discrete thanks when she served his meals or a request for a refill of sweet mead for his female guests. However, one day, he whispered a childhood endearment as he passed her in the garden. G'day, Kay-Kay. Oh how those words made her swoon, though she did a fair job of hiding her joy at the discovery that Machias did recognize her. He just saw her differently—beneath him. As did she, but in a sinful way.
Kara crumpled the apron in her fist, no longer finding joy in the pattern.
Ah, Machias, social standing became everything ta ye, and I became naught.
Machias waved from across the meadow. Kara looked to see who approached but saw no one. Smiling so hard her cheeks hurt, Kara slowly raised her hand. Spotting her berry-stained fingers, she snatched them down.
His smile flashed, bright and inviting. Mayhap the inviting part was simply her imagination. Just the same, Kara decided to join him and started his way.
At a poke from his brother, Machias turned away and blocked the next jab.
Kara's grin faltered and she pretended her intention was to give her mare a few berries. She grabbed a handful from her basket and outstretched her hand to Dunny. She peered over at the sound of Machias' voice. His broad back was to her, muffling his words to his younger brother, but she simply listened to the euphoric melody of the deep yet soft tones. Dunny snorted, seeming to ask for more of the sweet treat, but she returned back to the bushes.
"Why do I torture myself so?" she whispered, ripping berries from their hold. She did not even care that the thorns bit her fingertips. In a way, she welcomed the pain for 'twas preferable to the ache in her heart.

A visit with Gabe and Lily from Nopeming Shores

Today we’d like to welcome Gabriel and his lovely wife, Lily from Margie's latest release, Nopeming Shores. They have something of a mixed marriage.

Gabriel, could you explain to our readers how you came to be...that is…your rather unique status?

I was serving in the military police in Afghanistan when I was blown up by an IED.

That’s horrible, what a shock to die so young. But usually, when a girl is widowed, she finds herself on her own. That certainly doesn’t seem to be the case here!

It's certainly not. Both of us were devastated by what happened to me and to our future together. So much so I couldn't leave the confines of earth. I got permission from God to help her through her grief and rebuild her life so I could move on, too.

Lily, doesn’t it make things difficult to have a ghost for a husband?

I can laugh about it now, but at first, I thought I'd lost my mind. I found these poems around the house and other places. They were in Gabe's handwriting, in his specific style of poetry, and it was impossible for them to suddenly appear since he'd been deployed and dead for months. Then, I thought I saw him in the living room. I slept with the lights on that night. When I started hearing his voice in my thoughts, I really freaked out. Even though Gabe was usually nearby, it wasn't like we were living together – he in his ghostly existence and me as a human. It was much different than that.

And remember, I'm trying to help Lily move on with her life. When Shane Keefe shows up, it complicates matters – a lot. It's pretty hard to explain jealousy from the grave.

Do your friends know about your situation, Lily?

Not really. I tried to tell my best friend, Jana, about what I suspected and saw. She thought I was whacko too. After that, I kept my mouth shut. Her reaction made me understand that seeing ghosts doesn't necessarily make people want to throw you a party….except the going away kind…in a white jacket.

Lily, is there anything else you’d like to share with the readers?

Our story is very powerful. It comes with a tissue alert. It's not just strong emotion on my part; Gabe also shares his anger, grief, and frustrations. There are some funny moments, and there are a couple of super-sexy scenes. Margie has been saying that if your heart doesn't race and you haven't cried a few times while reading this book, all your romantic bones are broken. She's right.

How can they read all about your fascinating story?

Noble Romance has exclusive rights on it for a couple of weeks, and then it'll be available at almost any eBook retailer. Here's the buy link. 

One more thing we like to ask, how did you decide to have the fabulous Margie Church tell your story?

Don't give her a big head! :-p Margie wanted a special story for her 10th romance and so we let her write Nopeming Shores. LOL She had some experiences with tragic deaths, and the poet who co-authored the book, J. Andrew Lockhart, did, too. Together, they really understood what we were going through and told our story in such a beautiful, romantic, riveting way.

Wow! And where can we find more about Ms. Church’s other stories? I hear she has a vamp or two up her sleeve…among others.

Margie is a multi-published author (that's author-talk for has more than one publisher), so the easiest way to get the rest of her books is at Amazon. She has nine other books, including a bestselling, erotic gay romance. Here's the link.

If you need a nursery rhyme, she has one! Here's the link Kate, thanks for hosting Lily and Gabe today. Before they leave, I'd like to share the blurb from Nopeming Shores and offer everyone a chance to win an eBook copy. Tell me this: If a ghost visited you, do you think you'd tell people? Why or why not?

Blurb: Nopeming Shores by Margie Church with J. Andrew Lockhart

An IED snuffed out Gabe Holliway's life, but couldn't destroy his love. Using his unique gift, Gabe struggles to help his young wife, Lily, rebuild her shattered future.

But when Gabe's ghost reaches out to her, Lily fears she's lost her last hold on sanity. Can she trust what she discovers and what her heart says? When she sees Gabe face-to-face, can she believe her eyes?

When love transcends death, the answers are found in Nopeming Shores.

Two Guys from Starting Over by Starla Kate

Character Interview: Corbin and Matt from Starting Over

Today we’re interviewing a couple of guys who don’t know each other, not yet anyway.

Madame Evangeline has given us special permission to chat with the guys who are being matched up, but they don’t know about each other yet so sshhh! They think it’s an interview for a business eZine. Don’t tell!

Hi Corbin, grab a seat and make yourself comfortable. Coffee, tea or scotch neat?

Scotch neat. Maybe a double.

Well, I know you’re busy so let’s get started. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Just stating facts here…I’m a self-made multi-millionaire. Bradley Financial Advisors being the heart of my dozen varied businesses.

I understand you own a large building downtown. To what do you attribute your success?

Yes, I own a prime piece of property here in downtown Oklahoma City and every business in it is one of mine. Again, not bragging just stating a fact…I worked hard for my success. 24/7 plus for a lot of years. I’m the kind of man who sets a goal and reaches it.

Okay, now I’ve got you all comfy—you married?

No. I was, for quite a few years. But…well, it ended.

A handsome, successful guy like you all alone? C’mon you must want to meet someone, what’s your dream date like?

(He blushes) Successful, yes. As to the other…well, that’s a matter of opinion. And, yes, I’d like to meet someone. I don’t like living alone. I miss going home and sharing my day with someone. Although my ex calls regularly and we still share a lot of our lives. She’s an amazing woman.

(He sighs heavily and has trouble meeting the reporter’s eyes.) That was part of the problem. Pamela being a woman, I mean. I’ve…we’ve finally come to terms with my being more drawn to men. But I don’t really know what a “dream date” would be like. I’m really new at all of this. Not that I haven’t fantasized…a lot…over the years.

(Another sigh and he meets her eye) Okay, I’ll take a stab at the “dream date” thing. I want to spend time with a man who is very comfortable in his skin, in his being a gay man. I want a man who makes me burn inside from the second I see him. That doesn’t mean he has to be drop-dead gorgeous, but that wouldn’t hurt. It means more that he needs to pull all of my strings just by being sexy, hot, and somehow showing me that he desires me in return. Asking much…yes. Expecting to find that…no. At least not anytime soon.

Whew! Sounds pretty sexy! If you meet him find out if he has a brother for me. Thanks for joining us today, I’ll let you know when your article will appear in Successful Business eZine.

You didn’t really dig much into my business reputation. But I know you received my PR kit. I suppose you’ll get the rest of what you need from that.

Now it’s time to interview the other fella, successful Landscape Designer, Matt. Welcome, Matt, to Successful Business eZine.

I’m pleased to be here.

Can you tell our readers about yourself.

I’m not sure what you want to know. I’m just an average guy who happened to finally find something to do as a career that really fit me. I dream about creating masterpiece gardens. I salivate over plant catalogues with unique flowers and bushes. Pretty dull stuff, actually.

Landscape design sounds very interesting, how long have you been in that line of work?

I started mowing lawns for a lawn service when I was 19, then helped with some garden clean ups. That’s where I got my first taste of working with plants. Over the years I moved from job to job…worked in greenhouses, worked in nurseries, took horticulture classes. Finally I started this business and it really started blossoming about five years ago…when I took on a very special partner.

Does your business involve much travel?

It didn’t in the beginning. But as my clientele got more elite, they spread the word of what I could do. I started designing for bigger businesses, for big money individuals. Finally I started getting clients all over Europe.

Your significant other must hate you being gone all the time.

He didn’t. We were business partners as well as life partners. (He looks away, swallows hard) We’re not together anymore. He died.

Oh, I’m sorry to hear that. Have you begun dating again, it must be difficult to start over after such a long term relationship, being so close to someone and losing them.

I’ve only been “single” about six months and I’m having a hard time getting beyond the grief. But I think I’m finally to the point where I’ll start taking a stab at dating again. I hate being alone.

(He flashes a smile, eyes still wary, expression determined) Eager readers, huh? What would it take to win me over? Hmmm…a spectacular body, sock-me-in-the-gut handsomeness, an 8-inch, thick dick. (He grins mischievously) Sorry. Shouldn’t have said that. (He laughs) That wouldn’t be bad, though.

(He turns serious) In truth, looks don’t matter as much to me as what is inside the man. Decency, loyalty, pride, concern for others. Still, a good ass wouldn’t be a bad thing.

Really? Sounds like a special kind of guy. Well, hope you can find him, you seem like a great guy yourself and we wish you all the best.

Thanks. I am a great guy…a super catch. (He flashes another sexy smile)

So…this is Misty Meadows, for Successful Business eZine. Be sure to catch our next interview,

Blurb for Starting Over

Corbin was finally trying to ease into his new lifestyle. He was scared shitless, wondered what had possessed him to agree to this 1 NightStand arrangement. He’d spent years fantasizing about this. As he neared the long, lean man with graying hair a bit shaggy, a hard on pushing at the front of his swim trunks, and a sexy-as-hell grin, the dreams paled in comparison.

Excerpt

Matt had considered changing his mind about this one-night arrangement. But as the tall, well-built man walked across the pool area toward him, all thoughts of that fled. Those broad shoulders, the amazing pecs, the spattering of dark hair on his chest…all of it called to him. He wanted to touch it, play with it. He forced himself to calm down. This was a virgin gay man. He would be his first male lover and he would have to find the inner strength to take his time. Could he?

Matt sat on a chaise lounge near the poolside bar, sipping on some fruity island drink the bartender had insisted he try. Not bad really, but he preferred beer. He’d been out here almost an hour and already had two women and a young stud make advances. He’d politely turned them all down, saying he was here with someone. Now he wished that someone would join him before he had to make excuses again to the Barbie-doll shaped woman heading in his direction.

She had no sooner wobbled up on her ridiculously high-heeled sandals than he spotted Corbin Bradley walking into the pool area. Well, well, well. Prime male and mine for the night. The thought surprised him, but he couldn’t deny the way his pulse raced and his body went on high alert. He grinned, glanced past the twenty-something blonde, and waved at his roomie. “Over here.”

Frowning her disappointment, the blonde walked off, muttering, “What a waste.”

He’d heard that kind of comment many times over the years and didn’t care a bit. He was comfortable with his homosexuality, even if others couldn’t easily see it until he revealed it. Unconcerned with her reaction, he studied the tall, well-built man making his way across the pool area. The photo he’d seen of Bradley didn’t do him justice. It seemed so wrong to ever hide those broad shoulders, the amazing pecs, and incredible six-pack beneath a suit, even an obviously expensive, tailored one. He longed to smooth his hands over what he saw, feel the muscles beneath his palms, play with the nipples and the spattering of dark hair on his chest. He wanted to…. God! Get it together. Stop salivating and be cool.

His cock had hardened and pressed the front of his trunks, so he lowered the hardback book he’d been reading and tented it over his erection. “Any trouble getting here?” A lame question, he knew.

“No.” He looked down at him and Matt saw uneasiness in his eyes. Yet he’d come all this way in spite of his rigid posture, the tightness in his jaw. He stretched out a hand. “Corbin, but I guess you know that already.”

Matt gave him a reassuring smile and shook it. Their hands, like their overall size, appeared similar, except his was callused from work. “Matt.”

With a slight nod of acknowledgment, Corbin eased onto the chaise lounge next to him, turning his head to take in the scene, the dozen sunbathers, the few people enjoying the pool. “I guess you can tell how nervous I am. I hope I don’t disappoint you.”

Matt relaxed. “I didn’t come here with a lot of expectations other than getting away, seeing someplace new, sharing the experience with someone.” He held Corbin’s gaze and said, “I’m a little nervous myself, but I think we’ll be fine together.”

His dark brown eyes looked hopeful. “As long as you understand….”

“Don’t worry about it.”

As if he needed to make sure Matt knew what he’d meant, Corbin leaned closer and said so only he would hear, “I’ve never…well, never been with a man.”

The admission took guts. Until that moment, Matt hadn’t really intended to actually have sex with the date he’d been matched with, although he’d toyed with the idea. Now he intended to be Corbin’s first male lover. He would guide him into what could happen between them.

Find out more about Starla at her BLOG

Allison from Carrie Pulkinen's To Catch a Spirit

Hi Allison and welcome to Got Romance Reviews.


1. We hear you have a special talent? A healing method?
Yes. I have many psychic gifts, but I earn my living practicing Reiki, a form of healing through the manipulation of energy.

2. Can you tell us how you learned to use Reiki?
I know it sounds ordinary, but I took classes. There are three levels of Reiki classes, and I went through the entire course. That makes me a "Reiki Master"--meaning I can teach others the process.

3. I understand that form of healing can be used even long distance…has that been your experience as well?
It can, though it's much harder. Healing over a long distance requires incredible concentration and focus. The closer the subject, the easier it is to transfer the healing energy.

4. Do you have any an anecdote you can tell the readers to show how you use your gift to clear bad energy from furniture?
I wandered into Lucia’s Antique Furniture Store two years ago and was struck by a beautiful cherry-wood vanity in the back of the showroom. The moment I touched it, tendrils of sadness crept up my arm like ivy climbing a lattice. I saw a woman, who’d lost a child, sobbing at the vanity. She’d cried there every night. The furniture had trapped her energy.

“How long have you had this piece?” I asked Lucia.
“Too long,” the woman replied. “It’s so beautiful, but I can’t sell it. It’s 18th century, you know.”
“I know. It’s got a lot of negative energy stored in it. I can clear it for you. See if that helps it sell.”
“You can do that?” Lucia’s eyes widened. “Yes! Please, I’ll do anything to sell that piece.”
I closed my eyes and took a few deep, cleansing breaths. Then I put my hands on the vanity and focused my energy toward it. I opened myself up like a conduit, allowing the negative energy to pass through and out of me, releasing it back into the universe. When I was done, I pulled a crystal out of my pocket and placed it on top of the vanity.
“There. That should do it. Keep this crystal on it overnight, and I bet it’ll sell pretty quickly now.” I smiled at Lucia and turned to go.
“Wait. What about your crystal?”
“I’ll come back for it in a few days.”
When I returned three days later, the vanity was gone.
Lucia pulled me into a tight embrace and kissed me on both cheeks. “I sold that piece the next day. I can’t thank you enough.”
Heat flushed my cheeks, and I shrugged. “It’s what I do.”
“How much would you charge to work on all my furniture?”
“Umm, I don’t know. I’ve never worked on such a large scale before.”
“Is your office somewhere close by?” Lucia asked.
“I don’t actually have an office. I see what few clients I have in the park. I’ve been taking care of my mom. She was sick with cancer, but she passed away a few months ago. I’m still trying to get back on my feet.” I had to blink back the tears. I missed my mother terribly, and it still hurt to talk about her passing.
Lucia put her arm around me. “I’m sorry about your loss, dear. But meeting clients in the park is no way to start a business. You need an office.” She led me to the back of the showroom where a small door opened into an empty room. “It’s yours if you want it. We could work out a way for you to pay rent. Maybe you could work on my pieces in return for the space?”
The size of my bedroom, the office held a small counter and sink on one side. The soft jade walls produced a calming effect, and thick, camel-beige carpet covered the floor.
“It’s perfect.”
Lucia took me in, gave me a place to build a business when my hope was about to run out. I'll be forever thankful for the kind, motherly figure that came into my life at just the right time.

5. Why does furniture need clearing up?
Like the anecdote above states, it can hold on to negative energy. You might be in a bad mood whenever you sit in a certain chair, but you won't know why. If the energy is cleared from the object, it can't have negative effects on people.

6. What’s the scariest haunted location you ever visited?
Oh, definitely the old mental hospital on Halloween. It nearly killed me! But you'll have to read the book for all the details. Just thinking about it makes me queasy.

7. Can you tell us anything interesting about your author?
Well, she grew up next door to a cemetery, so she's been around death and spirits all her life. She's an empath, kind of like me, but on a smaller scale. Oh! She's also a ghost hunter. We have a lot in common!


8. Where can our readers find your book?
They can go to her blog: http://carrie-pulkinen.blogspot.com/p/my-books.html. There are links to the different places they can purchase it. They can also get it directly from Breathless Press: http://www.breathlesspress.org/Book/241.

9. If a reader should have a haunted house, would you be able to help them?
Hmm...I'm not sure. After the Halloween incident, I'm still a bit hesitant to take on any new spirits. Helping Logan with his ghost was difficult enough.

10. How can the readers find your author?
At her blog: http://www.carrie-pulkinen.blogspot.com
Or Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Carrie.Pulkinen
They can also email her at carrie.pulkinen[at]hotmail[dot]com
And follow her on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CarriePulkinen


Thank you so much for talking with me. It was fun!




BLURB:
Psychic Allison Dupuis has a soft spot for Logan Mitchell, even though she’s never met him. All it takes is one encounter for the millionaire’s true emotions to slip through Allison’s shields, and she is intrigued. He needs her help, but Allison soon discovers that the kind of help Logan needs is the kind she isn’t willing to give. Logan has a ghost, and Allison doesn’t work with spirits anymore.


But the ghost is the least of Logan’s problems. Born an empath, Logan is constantly barraged with human emotions. And while his talent has come in handy in the business world, it’s about to drive him insane. Literally. Logan has OCD, and his ability triggers unbearable attacks that have him counting and cleaning until he collapses from exhaustion.


Sex and money. That’s all anyone wants from him. Even worse, he’s plagued with recurring visions of his future wife’s death, so Logan has spent his entire life avoiding love. He’s given up hope of ever having a normal life, until he meets Allison. She’s everything he’s ever dreamed of, and now he has to decide if loving her is worth risking her life.


If she’ll even have him. Allison’s lost too much already – her mother to cancer, her father to suicide. But, Logan is so charming and so real, she can’t help but fall for him. Now she has to overcome her fear of commitment…and ghosts…or face spending the rest of her life alone.


EXCERPT:
She sensed them as they drew closer to her - many different spirits, their energy buzzing on varying frequencies.


"One at a time, guys. Please." she said. But they didn’t listen. These were the spirits of the mentally ill, after all. Taking turns wasn’t their concern, and they all rushed her. She felt their presence closing in on her like an avalanche, and she was consumed. Every mental illness imaginable was thrown into her psyche as she tightened her grip on Gage’s hand and slumped down in her chair.


"Allison! Allison, are you okay?" Gage’s voice was a distant echo as she fought to hold on to herself. She was slipping. Sliding into the depths of despair and the spirits were pulling her down.


"It’s . . .No . . .There’s a light . . .You need to . . .You need to go to it." She tried to help the spirits cross over, but they wouldn’t listen. There were too many. Twenty at least, and they were so consumed by their own illnesses they thought of nothing else. Paranoia, depression, anxiety. Allison felt it all, and it was going to kill her. The pressure. So hard to breath. Her hands cradled her head as the migraine overtook her. Sharp, pounding pain had her crumpled on the floor as she drew her knees into her chest and rocked back and forth.


"Make it stop. Please, just make it stop." She was paralyzed. Frozen by the anguish of the tortured souls that forced themselves upon her. Hot tears streamed down her face and blood trickled from her nose. She gasped for air as she heard a faint voice call, "Get her out of here!"

Freak Week Opening by Sarah Angel

Hello kids! Sarah Angel, the original earth angel here.

Once again Freak Week is upon us, a glorious excuse to spend too much time on the computer, dish on paranormal happenings and give away the goodies in Stephanie Beck’s coiffures of fantasticness.

For schedules, scavenger hunt details, rules and all things relating to Freak Week, check out www.stephaniebeck.net and click on the Freak Sorority Tab—trust me, you’ll like it.

Anywhosers. What’s been happening with everyone since the last Freak Week? James, Ivy and I have been on a world adventure, checking out possible locations for a new Freak Sorority Headquarter. I’m leaning toward somewhere sunny, my vampire love has other thoughts. I’ll be on Facebook at www.facebook.com/StephanieBeckAuthor today for chit chat, so be sure to stop over there as well.

Now, for the real fun of Freak Week.

CONTEST:

*All correct answers will be ‘hatted’ and then chosen blindly. Duplicate answers by different commenters are okay, but try to be original when possible. (Answers will be accepted until 10:00 PM Central Standard on Monday Aug 1, 2011). Winners will be announced here and posted on www.stephaniebeck.net at the end of the contest day.

1. Name the first sorority recognized in the United States.

2. What women’s group was the first to be known as a ‘sorority’?

3. Name 3 movies with sorority themes.

***Three winners will be chosen from Monday’s answers, so get your answers in and tell your friends to stop by!*** (if you have troubles commenting, please email answers to stephaniebeckauthor@gmail.com )

Big hugs my Freak Week Friends!!

Cinnamon and Spice Scavenger Hunt

L. K. Below’s Cinnamon and Spice Scavenger Hunt

Hello, everyone! As a writer of erotic romance, among other things, I’m very pleased to introduce to you my latest release -- and my latest contest!

Blurb: Jack is smart. Jack is charming. Jack is persistent.

But Melissa is dead certain that he isn't the guy for her. In a moment of weakness caused by his shiver-inducing voice, Melissa finally agrees to one date. She shows up on his doorstep determined to get it over and done with, but Jack has something different planned. With a home-cooked meal, wine, and cinnamon-scented candles, can he break down Melissa's resolve?

Can he steal her heart?

Rules:

1. Must be 18 or older to enter contest.

2. Contest open to entrants world-wide

3. Email me at the provided address (lbelow at lbelow dot net) with the answer to the question. No need to answer in essay format (unless you feel moved to do so) a simple sentence or even one word will enter you.

4. Only one ballot per question -- but if you visit my other stops and answer the other questions, you will be entered multiple times.

5. Contest open until May 2nd, 2011 at 11:59PM EST. Winner will have 48 hours to confirm their email address and give a physical address where they would like their prize to be mailed.


Prize:

1. A goodie basket of cinnamon-scented products.

2. A photo of the Cinnamon and Spice cover, signed by me (L. K. Below)

3. A PDF copy of Cinnamon and Spice.


CONTEST ALERT: To enter to win the above prizes, simply email the answer to the following question to lbelow(at)lbelow.net.

Question: Have you ever dated someone you weren’t attracted to?


Do you want more chances to win? Each scavenger hunt question answered counts for one ballot towards the prize. Check http://lbelow.blogspot.com for the full itinerary. Good luck!

Please Welcome Marianne Stephens

Marianne, I thank you for coming today to share Tamerla’s story. She’s truly a woman who had to live through more than challenging times.

First of all, can you give us a little bit of background about your nonfiction book, “Guilty Survivor – Memoirs of Tamerla Kendall”; where it takes place, and what was going on there…in general terms.
“Guilty Survivor” takes place in Sarajevo during the Bosnian War (1992-1995). Ethnic groups became pitted against each other in a struggle for power. People living in Sarajevo became political hostages, finding themselves “stuck” in the middle or a war zone. A background overview about Tamerla Kendall is given before her war years’ story is presented, and information about her life after the war is added.

How did you happen to meet Tamerla and write her story?
Friends knew I’d ghostwritten an autobiography of a female speaker for a women’s shelter back in 1999. They were acquainted with Tamerla and her husband, and knew Tamerla wanted to tell her story.

I believe nonfiction is a new venture for you, was there a great deal of research to be done?
I approached this as I did my first ghostwritten, nonfiction book. I tape-recorded all our sessions so I wouldn’t miss information and took notes as Tamerla spoke. I guided her into dividing her comments for certain periods of time in her life. I even interviewed her husband.
I read information about the war, and contacted Dr. Florian Bieber, a professor (now living/teaching in Austria) who wrote reports about the war for the United Nations. I asked if he’d give me permission to use some of his text in the Foreword of my book as historical background. He told me to send what I wanted to use, and he’d allow me to use the revised version he put in his book about the war. I appreciate his gracious gesture!

I understand she had to make some extremely difficult decisions concerning her children and their safety?
Her daughter, Joana, lived with her in Sarajevo and faced the fears war brings. Going to school was difficult and dangerous. Her first husband had already left, fleeing the area because he was afraid of being picked up by the Bosnian army. Although Joana could have gone with him, Tamerla was afraid that if her husband got caught trying to leave, Joana would be left somewhere alone.
When sniper and grenade attacks escalated, Tamerla had no choice but to plan a secretive trip to get Joana to safety. Using two cars and different drivers, they passed three checkpoints and arrived at her parents’ home in Croatia. Tamerla returned, as she was the only one to save their family restaurant for their future.
Her son, Eddie, was born after the war to Tamerla and her second husband, an American. Eddie was shunned at times for being half-American. When Tamerla was assaulted at gunpoint, robbed, and threatened because she married an American, she decided their lives were in jeopardy. Once again, she had to make plans to keep her child safe…and that meant getting Eddie out of Sarajevo.


How did that affect their relationships with their mother?
Eddie misses his friends, but has made new ones in the United States. He’s happy living with his mother and father.
Joana, on the other hand, was brain-washed into believing that her mother “abandoned” her by her father. Although he encouraged Tamerla to stay in Sarajevo to keep the business operating, his plan wasn’t to return. He wanted her to sell the business at the end of the war and move to Montenegro, where he settled with Joana during the war. Tamerla divorced him, and Joana refused to listen to her mother or see her. Their relationship is tentative now that Joana is an adult, but many heartbreaking years went by without any bonding.

Where is Tamerla today and how is she doing?
Tamerla lives in the Kansas City area with her second husband and son. She’s taking more English lessons and classes for a degree in Hotel Management and Food Preparation. Her goal is to get back into the restaurant business.
She visits Sarajevo occasionally, but things are not the same. She became a US citizen last year.

Finally, writing this book, about people living in such difficult and tragic times, in a war-torn country…how did this affect you?
I had to keep focused on the tragedy and hardships she faced while putting myself in her position. I found I couldn’t write romance books at the same time, because I’d try to turn Tamerla’s story into a romance! Hers is a difficult journey of survival, crucial decisions, and finding inner strength.

Buy Link:
http://www.secretcravingspublishing.com/MarianneStephens.html
Other Links:
http://www.mariannestephens.net
http://www.romancebooksrus.blogspot.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/romancebooksrus
http://alldayallnightromancedivas.blogspot.com
http://www.secretcravingspublishing.com
http://www.xoxopublishing.com
http://www.breathlesspress.com
http://www.jasminejade.com/m-310-marianne-stephens.aspx

***Secret Cravings Publishing Grand Opening Contest Prizes include:
Registration for Romantic Times Booklovers Convention
Registration for Lorie Foster's Reader and Writer Get Together Weekend
Kindle, Nook, or Sony ebook reader
And more! Visit: http://www.secretcravingspublishing.com for details.
Thanks for having me here today to talk about “Guilty Survivor – Memoirs of Tamerla Kendall”!


Guilty Survivor – Memoirs of Tamerla Kendall
Link: http://www.secretcravingspublishing.com/MarianneStephens.html
A BLURB:

Tamerla Kendall is the woman you see rooting for her son at sporting practice. You might meet her in a grocery story. Perhaps you’ll see her planting a garden behind her home. Or, talk to her at school or work. She’s a student, worker, wife and mother.

Surviving a dark past is hidden by her façade of an everyday, average life. Reading her memoirs will reveal her true struggle to survive in a war zone, and is a testament to her courage.

Bosnian Croat, Tamerla Kendall, lived through the carnage and chaos in Sarajevo during the Bosnian War (1992-1995). Hers is a story of courage, fear, ingenuity, and survival. Difficult choices she made then still disturb her peace of mind and life today.

She made a few trips out of Sarajevo, only to return to keep the family restaurant business operating. One carefully planned, secretive trip was made to remove her daughter from the dangers of fighting, but this created a heartbreaking rift in their relationship. For her second trip, Tamerla masqueraded as a United Nations Protection Forces soldier and rode in a tank. A uniform and travel assistance came from a Ukrainian general.

Her hopes for a return to normalcy at war’s end diminished as corruption and religious zealots took control. She married an American, and this marked her as an outcast by some she’d trusted. When her life was threatened at gunpoint, she faced a critical decision concerning her family’s safety in her beloved country.




Guilty Survivor – Memoirs of Tamerla Kendall
Link: http://www.secretcravingspublishing.com/MarianneStephens.html
Unofficial Excerpt:
Restaurant Meli was attacked more than once by grenades. I was downstairs in the bakery area the first time when a grenade was thrown. It destroyed my beautiful winter garden. There was broken glass and debris everywhere and the storefront was damaged.
My first reaction was one of fear and panic. I froze where I stood, wondering if the basement had also been hit and damaged. My heart skipped a beat, and then began beating wildly. What if I’d been upstairs? What if customers and my employees had been there? Then, my fear turned to anger. Why was this happening? Who were the cowards who tried to steal my sanity and wanted to drive me away?
That same day, my employees and I put up a heavy protective wall covering in the front of the restaurant. This remained in place during the war and for some time after the war ended.
In that one instant, everything changed before my eyes. I had felt a kind of safety I’d convinced myself existed inside my restaurant. I now knew that was no longer true.
Another time, a grenade destroyed my roof. After my initial sense of heart-pounding fear, anger again took its place. I let frustration rule my senses. I got up on the roof and had some employees help me repair the damage.
It was a long, difficult job, and a saner person might have considered how vulnerable we were standing out in the open. I’d gone beyond sane level thinking and just wanted to fix the damn roof. My employees didn’t balk at this, but joined me in doing the job quickly.
We had to put rolls of material and hot asphalt on the roof. Roof attacks happened five or six times. We fell into a routine of accomplishing repair work between sniper attacks.
Death and destruction were everywhere. There was no avoiding this. Ignoring it as if it didn’t happen on a regular basis would be like ignoring an elephant sitting in the restaurant.