Tuesday, May 26, 2020

The Gourmet Gangster: Mysteries and Menus by the Family by Marcia Rosen & Jory Rosen



Food and mysteries are a perfect pair! And the two come together in this series of mystery stories by Marcia Rosen and Jory Rosen. Enjoy an excerpt before you download your own copy to devour. Be sure to leave comments and questions along the way as you follow the tour. And of course, best of luck entering the giveaway!


The Family Business

This is a collection of murder mystery stories linked by two main characters, Poppa and the Boss and at times joined by the Senior Sleuths, Dick and Dora Zimmerman and their friend, Zero the Bookie. How they get involved is often a mystery.

Poppa is head Chef for a successful restaurant, Manhattan Shadow, owned by the Boss, a powerful mobster determined to maintain control and power in his territory.

To refuse to work for him would be considered an insult. Not a good thing for Poppa’s wellbeing.

There are silent implications if one should become disloyal. There are consequences implied one doesn’t want to experience.

In the restaurants private dining room murder is often planned for all sorts of irrational reasons that seem very rational to the Boss: including power, greed, control, revenge and of course money.

The stories Poppa could tell…and does.

But who is he telling?

That’s also part of the mystery.

Of course the Senior Sleuths and Zero know.


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The book is currently 99 cents!


Read an excerpt:
“He’s Head Chef at Manhattan Shadow.”

“I bet murder is on the menu.”

Such comments were often overheard when discussing plans to have dinner there.

Those making jokes had no idea how true it was.

Murder appeared with different ingredients, flavored with deadly seasonings and hard-to-swallow offerings by The Mob Boss, who found a perverse pleasure in serving it.

Many wrongly assumed Poppa was part of the criminal organization.

Life handed him an unusual opportunity he could not deny. It was a choice he made for his family and himself. Growing up poor colors one’s decisions as an adult.

Poppa was nine when he began to help his mother cook. By the age of twelve he prepared more than half the meals for his parents and two younger sisters. His mother was delighted to give up cooking. While he cooked, she read stories to his sisters and fantasized about one day writing a book for children. When she told her husband, he laughed. “Who would want to read anything you write?”

Years later he would be gone. She’d remember that ugly smirk and those nasty words, and prove him wrong. She’d write several children’s books, even one about a boy who grew up to be a successful chef.

Poppa’s success would happen through a series of unexpected circumstances. At seventeen he was offered an opportunity, the first of several to come. Opportunities he didn’t dare refuse.

“Poppa, you’re a good kid.” The man across the hall from his family had known him since he was an infant.

“I need someone to drop off and pick up papers and money for my boss. I can’t do it anymore, since my stroke. I told him he could trust you. You interested?”

“Yes.”

It was the beginning. One word, yes, changing his circumstances forever.

“Mom, I got a job.”

She hugged him and never asked, “Doing what?” She knew her neighborhood.

She was well aware of the type of people living and working in its shadows—the barely surviving underbelly of society.

They lived in a fourth-floor walk-up, in a tenement on the lower east side of New York. It was blocks from the Williamsburg Bridge, near Delancey, Clinton and Orchard Streets. Bordered by The Henry Street Settlement, China Town and Little Italy, where much of the food, clothes and household supplies were purchased off pushcarts.

Goods sat in bins and hung from ropes stretched across the worn walkways. The vendors, most often men equally worn, had come to America in hopes of a better life. It didn’t work out that way for some.

“Here’s today’s leftovers.” Poppa’s father tossed them on to the table.

His father sold fruits and vegetables from one such pushcart. Each day he left early, coming home near sundown. Sometimes he ate with them, but more often, after he brought home the leftovers, he went out to a local bar and drank his dinner.

His mother once told him, “Poppa, he’s not a mean drunk. He’s simply disappointed with his life.”

His father dropped dead of a heart attack in the middle of Orchard Street at the age of 46. His pushcart was quickly stolen.

Poppa’s job and the money he earned was now more important than ever. Once The Mob Boss saw he was reliable, kept his mouth shut and stayed out of trouble, his earnings increased.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And, here is a deadly delicious recipe from The Gourmet Gangster:

Chicken Piccata “Caper”

Cauliflower Rice and Fresh Italian Bread

Chicken Piccata is a classic recipe filled with an amazing lemon butter flavor. Place the Piccata over the fresh cauliflower rice (or standard rice, if you prefer) and let the sauce coat the rice for the ideal bite. Use the bread to soak up any extra sauce. The meal is the perfect complement to the crisp, clean taste of the Sauvignon Blanc.

  • 4 skinless and boneless chicken breasts (The thinner the cutlet the better, as it will cook easier and more evenly. If you have thicker breasts, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound thin/flatten out.)
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • All-purpose flour, for dredging
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup chicken stock
  • 1/4 cup brined capers, rinsed
  • 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  1. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour and shake off excess.
  2. In a large skillet over medium high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 3 tablespoons olive oil. When butter and oil start to sizzle, add 2 pieces of chicken and cook for 3 minutes. When chicken is browned, flip and cook other side for 3 minutes. Remove and transfer to plate. Melt 2 more tablespoons butter. When butter starts again to sizzle, add the other 2 pieces of chicken and brown both sides in same manner. Remove pan from heat and add chicken to the plate.
  3. Into the pan add the lemon juice, stock and capers. Return to stove and bring to boil, scraping up brown bits from the pan for extra flavor. Add seasoning to taste and return all the chicken to the pan and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove chicken to platter. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter to sauce and whisk vigorously. Pour sauce over chicken and garnish with parsley.

Wine Pairing: Sauvignon Blanc.

M. Glenda Rosen is author of a total of ten books including The Gourmet Gangster: Mysteries and Menus by The Family published by Level Best Books. They are also her publisher for The Senior Sleuth Mystery Series, and will be republishing all four books in her Dying To Be Beautiful Mystery Series. She has won several book awards, was founder and owner of a successful marketing and public relations agency for many years, receiving numerous awards for her work with business and professional women. She is a member of Sisters in Crime, LA and Alb.NM, Central Coast Writers and Public Safety Writer’s Association

She currently resides in Carmel, California and can be reached at: MarciagRosen@gmail.com

Books by M. Glenda Rosen (aka Marcia Rosen)
  • The Gourmet Gangster, Mysteries and Menus by The Family (Marcia and Son Jory Rosen)
  • The Senior Sleuths Mysteries: Dead In Seat 4-A
  • The Senior Sleuths Mysteries: Dead In Bed
  • The Senior Sleuths Mysteries: Dead In THAT Beach House (2020)
  • Dying To Be Beautiful: Without A Head
  • Dying To Be Beautiful: Fashion Queen Dying To Be Beautiful: Fake Beauty Dying To Be Beautiful: Fat Free
  • My Memoir Workbook
  • The Woman’s Business Therapist:Eliminate the MindBlocks & RoadBlocks to Success


Jory Rosen has been in the advertising and marketing business for over 30 years and is the owner of the J. Rosen Group, a full-service international advertising, branding and direct marketing agency.

For over two decades, Jory Rosen has set the tone for strong, innovative, and successful campaigns, while providing a flexibility and level of personal client service rarely seen in the industry has extensive experience in all areas of advertising, direct response and marketing including sales, production direct mail, email, web, TV, radio, alternative media and more. In addition, with over 150 campaigns under the belt, there is a strong track record of success.

Jory’s passions are his family, cooking and wine. Jory worked as a cooking demonstrator for many years in NYC and now takes the show on the road by doing cooking demonstrations for his kid’s schools and classrooms. He often cooks meals with his kids and loves seeing their reactions to new recipes and meals.

They live in Los Angeles, California. www.jrosengroup.com
Joryla@gmail.com


Marcia Rosen & Jory Rosen will be awarding a $50 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.




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Monday, May 25, 2020

Ashes and Blood by Katie Zaber



Welcome to the book blast tour for Ashes and Blood by Katie Zaber! Check out an excerpt before you download your own copy and then follow the tour for even more! Leave questions and comments along the way. And best of luck entering the giveaway!


I’ll start at the beginning. Long ago, before roads, before we built structures, before medicine was discovered, before the government was created, before man gained any knowledge, there were The Five. Independent from each other, The Five had a mutual respect for one another. They knew their roles in the world and their duty. They were gods…”

An adventure begins when an otherworldly tree captures the attention of Megan and her friends. The environment morphs around them, transferring them to an exotic planet. Stuck in a rural town still maimed by the plague, a chance encounter with a familiar face gives Megan and her friends some security during their adjustment period.

While settling into new, promising lives, they are attacked and stalked by planet Dalya’s humanoid inhabitants, who focus on Megan. One dark night, after an epic, magical attack, the Fae King’s knight is sent to fetch Megan. When she wakes up a prisoner, she learns that there is much more to this strange world, and it is oddly more like her own than she ever would have expected.


Read an excerpt:
Kevin

Every time my life improves, when business runs smoothly and this world begins to feel normal, there’s a curveball. Always, without fail, either Earth-shattering news or Dalya-shattering news, depending on which planet you come from. Don’t get me wrong; I’m glad to see Megan and her friends alive, but they should be living their lives happily on Earth, not here.

Not trapped.

I honestly thought Megan was a hallucination created by too much alcohol. Standing there in the forge, surrounded by people from both worlds, it made me panic. I was positive I’d lost it, that I either drank myself mad or that I’d gone crazy. Two distant worlds collided together, people from my past and present, from two separate places, standing in the same room. It made me freak out to a completely new level. It took a few moments to realize Megan and her friends actually stood in front of me. What happened to me eight years ago happened to them too.

Good, I’m not insane—not yet—but it sucks for Megan and the girls.

Available on Amazon
(affiliate link)




Katie Zaber writes new adult fiction. With multiple projects spanning from being transported to an alternate universe, to past lives, reincarnation, and trapped souls, to prophesied pregnancies—there are more stories to tell. She lives in North New Jersey with her boyfriend.

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Dalya-Series-110665970357251

Website: https://zaberbooks.com/






Katie Zaber is giving away a $25 Amazon/BN gift card! Follow the tour for more chances to win!

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Sunday, May 24, 2020

Review of The Sugar Queen of Emerson Pass by Tess Thompson



True love requires commitment, and many times unending sacrifice. . .

At the tender age of eighteen, Brandi Vargas watched the love of her life drive out of Emerson Pass, presumably for good. Though she and Trapper Barnes dreamed of attending college and starting their lives together, she was sure she would only get in the way of Trapper's future as a hockey star. Breaking his heart, and her own in the process, was the only way to ensure he pursued his destiny. Her fate was the small town life she'd always known, her own bakery, and an endless stream of regret.

After a decade of playing hockey, a single injury ended Trapper Barnes' career. And while the past he left behind always haunted him, he still returns to Emerson Pass to start the next chapter of his life in the place his ancestors built more than a century before. But when he discovers that the woman who owns the local bakery is the girl who once shattered his dreams, the painful secret she's been harboring all these years threatens to turn Trapper's idyllic small town future into a disaster. Will it take a forest fire threatening the mountain village to force Trapper and Brandi to confront their history? And in the wake of such a significant loss, will the process of rebuilding their beloved town help them find each other, and true happiness, once again?

Fast forward to the present day and enjoy this contemporary second chance romance set in the small town of Emerson Pass, featuring the descendants of the characters you loved from USA Today bestselling author Tess Thompson's The School Mistress.


Book Links

**My thoughts**
I've read almost all of Tess Thompson's books, and this series is quickly becoming my favorite. There's an ethereal poetry to them that you don't often find in current books. I'm especially in love with the strong connection this modern generation of characters has with their ancestors from the same town. The modern characters rely heavily on the wisdom of the past generations and strive to emulate their values. It's a light of hope and a breath of fresh air in these crazy times right now.

I appreciate Tess telling us right from the start that a stillborn birth is a part of the story. This can be triggering for a lot of people. I am mentioning it again now in case that would dissuade someone from wanting to read this story. But please note that it is handled quite delicately and lovingly.

I'm sad that Brandi and Tanner were broken up at such a young age. And I am also glad at the same time. I think that their time apart actually helped them to grow and become stronger in who they actually are in order to make this second chance even stronger than it would have been otherwise. Perhaps they try to work things out too quickly, but when you know, you know, right? And there is some serious baggage that they will deal with for a long time.

I'm very angry with Brandi's parents, but am grateful for the other friends and family, plus the predecessors still sharing their wisdom years later though the letters and journals that were left behind. (Does anyone else want to keep a journal now for future generations?) 

You do not need to read the first book in order to understand this one. But you will better appreciate the legacies if you do.

I loved this second installment of the series and am so looking forward to its continuation.

Thank you to the author and publisher for honoring my review request. All thoughts and opinions are my own.




Read my reviews from the Emerson Pass Historical series


Read my reviews from the Emerson Pass Contemporary series

Thursday, May 21, 2020

Victor Arteaga shares his playlists for Unrest



Some authors have to have a soundtrack that helps to tell the story or at least inspires the story. Today, Victor Arteaga shares with us his playlist inspirations from his time writing Unrest. You can also check out an excerpt before you follow the tour. Leave questions and comments along the way. Best of luck entering the giveaway!


Remembrance Day is just an excuse for vampires and humans to throw themselves a parade. They like to pretend they did us werewolves a favor. But I guess it's not all bad. I do get cheap booze, live in an underground lunar city, which some would find cool, and I am employed. Sejanus Industries isn't a benevolent corporate ruler, but they're the devil I made a deal with. My life is quiet and mostly non-violent but one message from my cousin could cause me to lose everything I've sacrificed for my peaceful life.


Read an excerpt:
The salt of my perspiration mingled with the tang of copper and I shifted focus to my ribs, neck, knuckles, and legs. I could feel pools of blood passing through burst capillaries begin to collect under the surface of my skin to form bruises. Air recyclers and purifiers pushed a drifting breeze and the moisture on my body lifted the heat off my skin. I felt a massive swell of energy coming up from deep within the ground through my feet. It surged with something not quite electric, but it had a familiar thrum. The depth of power terrified me. Strange as it sounds, it felt sentient in a way. As though the pool of boundless power wanted me to tap into it. I ignored it, focused on the strength within me, and visualized wisps of gold light filtering through my injuries, pushing away and draining the inflammation around them. The crack in my rib needed more attention, so I let the light linger there, and when it was healed, I eased out of the trance.


Buy Links
 

Writing Playlists for Unrest

 


While I was working on Unrest I had two playlists. One playlist specifically for Aless that I crafted over several months to get right, and a playlist for the overall feel of the book. It’s my absolute pleasure to walk you through Aless’ playlist with explanations. 

Link : Aless

This playlist tells Aless’ story in chronological order and ties into the short stories found within The Daybreaker Archives.

  • Mad World – Gary Jules - This song details Aless’ general childhood. She’s cynical, sad, depressed. “The dreams in which I’m dying are the best I’ve ever had.”

  • Nutshell – Alice in Chains – Aless feels further isolated and abandoned since she has to live with her aunt and barely remembers her own parents. She feels adrift and disconnected with who she is.  

  • El Tren – Natalia Clavier - Because Aless is South American I wanted to be sure to include a song about her identity in Spanish. She struggles with who she is as a girl, a werewolf, and with her sexuality.

  • Go – Meg Myers - At this point she’s reached a breaking point with her family and decides to run away with her cousin, Grisela.

  • Catch Us If You Can – Elle King - Grisela and Aless have fled home and are on their own, being young and rebellious. They have to fend for themselves but for the first time, Aless feels free. 

  • Black Wave – K. Flay - Peak young adulthood. She’s a badass, and already made a name for herself in certain circles. “Stumbling down the street, I swear to God you don’t want to test me,” is the perfect encapsulation of her attitude. 

  • Kill Of The Night – Gin Wigmore – The song works on multiple levels because Aless met her girlfriend Yuki by coming to her aid when she was being attacked by vampires, which you can read about in my Patreon web-series and it’s also about her general philosophy on dating.

  • Lovesick – Dead Sara - The love song for Aless and Yuki. The vibe is just right. She’s deeply in love with Yuki, but it’s also representative of the last fight they had. “I believe that this time everything will work out.” Ties into the short story Composure

  • Espérame en el Cielo – Mäbu - The title translates to Wait For Me In Heaven, and ties into the short story Unraveled.  

  • Malevolence – New Years Day - For those who’ve read my short story Collapse this song is the rage Aless feels about Yuki’s death and she makes some seriously poor decisions. 

  • Ain’t Gonna Cry – Larkin Poe - At the end of Collapse, Aless has come to a certain peace about what she did and even though it was the wrong choice to make, she won’t feel regret.

  • Medicine Man – Dorothy - Aless searches for the medicine to quell her pain and finds it in a whiskey bottle. 

  • Neon Cathedral – Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - This song details in painful detail what alcoholism looks and feels like. Aless has waded into this territory with her drinking and isolates herself further. 

  • Dear Sister – The Pretty Reckless - Aless has decided to leave, and this is her goodbye note to her cousin, Grisela. 

  • The Only – Sasha Sloan - She’s in Galilei now, lonelier than ever. 

  • Home - Foo Fighters - Aless is homesick. She misses everyone, grieves for those she lost, but can’t go home. This is the state she’s in at the beginning of Unrest.

You can find my other playlist here. All the songs are relevant to the story and the characters in some way, and it’s got a more aggressive, energetic feel to it. I would listen to each of the playlists while I was focusing on different things. When I was homing in on Aless’ characterization during my editing passes, I would listen to her playlist and when I was focusing more on world-building and plot structures or other characters I’d throw on the other one. Before I go though, I would like to highlight one song on my Unrest playlist:

The Wolf In Your Darkest Room by Matthew Mayfeild. If I could get a book trailer made, or if it got turned into a movie or TV show, I’d use this song. It’s got that perfect menacing feel and lyrics that matches the themes of the book and Aless’ character. The build-up, the vibe, his voice is just…*chef’s kiss*



Victor Arteaga is a writer of science fiction, fantasy, and paranormal stories. Though he’s always been an avid reader, his dream to be a writer was jump-started when he got sober in March of 2015. What began as an exercise to keep his sobriety billowed into a deep and unbridled passion to create. His experiences with addiction and being a first-generation American from immigrant parents inject a flavor of unique authenticity to his characters and worlds that he creates. His imagination is given free rein to conjure worlds and experiences on the page which enthralls and captivates readers.

Website: welcometogalilei.com

Twitter: @bloodmoontrio

Patreon: patreon.com/bloodmoontrilogy


Victor Arteaga will be awarding a $15 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.


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Tuesday, May 19, 2020

Single Chicas by Sandra C. Lopez



Welcome to the book blast for Single Chicas, a collection of stories by Sandra C. Lopez! Enjoy this excerpt and then follow the tour for even more. Remember to leave questions and comments for Sandra along the way. Best of luck in the giveaway!


Single Chicas is a collection of stories about modern Latinas being in, out, and around the zany hurdles of relationships. One woman receives strange calls from a lonely soul, another seeks advice on how to love herself, and another wakes up in a parallel universe to a man she's never met. These chicas will make painstaking effort to survive the complexities with humor and grace. Once again, López dazzles audiences with her brilliantly candid craft. Smart, witty, and funny, these stories will explore the true endurance of singlehood.

Read an excerpt:
Dear Single Chicas,

Hey, hey, love your site! I was wondering if you could help me. I have a boyfriend I'm crazy about, but he has a tendency to call me at work. It's getting annoying. Any advice?

Sincerely, Looney Cell


"Ah, a typical relationship conundrum," Simone said with a mouthful of pizza.

"Yeah, a typical headache," Georgia added.

"So what do we say?" Chrissy asked.

"Try this," Simone said, waiting for Chrissy to start typing.


Dear Looney Cell,

Your boyfriend needs to realize that, when you are at work, you are NOT his girlfriend. You need to give him specific hours, just like in any other job. Lay down the line with him. Point out that each time he calls you at your job, it keeps you from doing the work—work you're getting paid to do and work that in no way, shape, or form involves him. Besides, it may get you in trouble with your boss, if it hasn't already. Instead tell him to send you a simple text, but be careful not to overload your phone memory. Thanks for the shout out!

Single Chicas


The next email read:


Dear Single Chicas,

What's up! Problem: I'm engaged and I'm totally freaking out about it. Would I be a fool to ask if we could postpone the big day until I'm less freaked?

Yours truly, Runaway Bride


Reply:


Dear Runaway Bride,

Absolutely not! Don't do anything you don't feel ready for. Be honest about it. If nobody can understand that, then you would save yourself the headache and the hassle, not to mention the time and money, for that whole shindig. If it wasn't meant to be, then so be it. If, however, you have a guy that is willing to wait, then, by all means, let him wait. Wait, wait, wait until you are sure you can make it down that aisle without breaking out in hives. Just make sure you bring your running shoes on the big day....just in case. ;)

Sincerely, Single Chicas


The next email read:


Hey, Single Chicas,

I saw this one episode of "I Love Lucy" where Lucy suggests a vacation from marriage. What are your thoughts? Yay or Nay?

Sincerely, TV Addict


Dear TV Addict,

Yay! A vacation from marriage allows for the re-discovery of one's individuality―the "I" before the "we." There is such a thing as spending "too much" time together. Lucy said it best in that episode: "I'm sick at the sight of your face." Take a vacation to avoid this sickness. 
Sincerely, Single Chicas

Buy on Amazon 
(affiliate link)
Book is free during the tour!



Sandra C. López is a writer, artist, blogger, and book reviewer. She is one of today's funny and influential authors in YA and chick lit. Her first novel, Esperanza, was published in March 2008 WHILE she was still in college. Her most recent and bestselling book is Single Chicas, a collection of humorous short stories about zany chicas. She is currently working on the next installment of the Single Chicas series called Holiday Chicas. Release date coming soon! When not writing her stories, Sandra supports the art and literary communities with freelance work and book promotion. For more info, see below:

Connect on:

Website: www.sandra-lopez.com

Book Review Blog : http://sandrasbookclub.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SandraLopezAuthorArtist/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArtistSandraL


Sandra C. Lopez will be awarding a $15 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Monday, May 18, 2020

Shine the Light Giveaway Ends 6/5 @las930


Shine The Light Giveaway

You're in the middle of reading a great paperback, only it's technically lights out. You don't want to disturb your partner, but that bed is also really comfortable. Or maybe you're camping and it's late. Or any other time that it's dark or low light and you want to keep on reading. Maybe one of these would help you out? Find out more about the Beam n Read and then enter to win one of your very own!


Welcome to the Shine The Light Giveaway!

1 Winner will be able to shine the light with a Beam n Read package.

This giveaway is part of our Dads and Grads Gift Guide – Stop by to see all the giveaways and great products.

Host is Michigan Saving and More

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This giveaway's Sponsor is:

Beam n Read

WEBSITE ~ AMAZON

When you need personal light, this hands free light delivers features and practical usefulness unmatched by other portable lights. Read Everything: It’ s a true reading light that works with all Kindles and other eReaders, printed books, PLUS newspapers, loose documents, maps and other items that can’ t support a clip-on light.

~~~

1 Winner receives the below. Shine The Light with Beam n Read

Beam n Read

Beam n Read 6

$29.95 ARV total

See review HERE.

Beam n Read 3

$16.95 ARV total

Beam n Read USB/AC Power kit

$19.95 ARV total

~~~~~~

THE GIVEAWAY

This giveaway/sweepstakes is in no way endorsed, affiliated, or associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Media Networking Site. This Giveaway is valid to continental United States residents only, Entrants must be 18+ years of age to enter. This giveaway event will end at 11:59 PM (EST) 6/5/20. The winner will have 48 hours to email their information back to las93063 at gmail dot com or a new winner will be drawn, you may want to put this email address as safe as it could go to spam. The giveaway is not valid where prohibited! By entering you are authorizing us to collect the information on the form below, this information is used only to contact the winner! No purchase necessary, Void where prohibited by law, and the number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Winners are chosen randomly by the Giveaway Tools program. The sponsors are each responsible for shipping of the above prizes. No blog associated with this contests are responsible for prize fulfillment. If you would like to be a sponsor in a giveaway like this please email Laura Smith at las930 (at)gmail (dot) com. If you take an entry you must stay following for the entire contest or you will be disqualified.

Sponsors interested in joining our gift guides can see the information HERE.

 

Diary of a Lost Witch by Reut Barak



Dear fans of modern fantasy, here's one for you! Enjoy an excerpt from this new blog and then follow the tour for even more. Leave questions and comments along the way and be sure to enter the giveaway!


Visit http://reutbarak.com/diary-of-a-lost-witch-april-10/ to begin the story featured on Reut Barak's new blog.

Molly is in trouble. Running away from home to escape the dangers of her coven, she ends up in Edinburgh at a time of Corona. Homeless and running for her life, she must find a new coven and get the help she needs to protect herself, or she is not going to make it back.



Read an excerpt:
April 10

The streets were empty today, which was expected, considering the circumstances. I guess that worked well in my case. I still have to figure out where I would be spending the night.

I had to pack light. To not seem immediately like a traveler. Only the best of my things. My jeans, which I liked to wear with everything, my favourite sweater, which I was hoping would be warm enough for the weather here, some essentials and the blank diary my moms gave me for the road.

Sally, my birth mom, from whom I’d inherited my powers, always said that writing was my gift. Joe was the one to push me to study something else in college, to have a variety, so I majored in journalism. She waited so anxiously for my graduation. My whole family was going to be there, including my grandpa, George, who would travel to us all the way from New York when I was a child and we lived in Florida, to give me lessons on how to use my powers. But, like a few strong witches before me, that was both a strength and a weakness.

I never made it to graduation. I had to take off in the middle of the night, the night before, because of May’s coven. A group that I used to be part of and that I now wish I had never met.

That was two weeks ago.

So far I’ve been hitching rides and staying away from any main cities.

I managed to talk my way into a private flight to Scotland, I still have no idea how. They must have really needed a stewardess. Two of them were sick. It was funny, serving a rich Asian family, dressed in a uniform that almost fit me.

But I made it. Edinburgh. There would be strong witches here. A few covens. I’d have to be careful. Make sure I get the right support. Eventually May’s coven would figure it out. So I would have to be quick about it too.

Two police officers looked at me suspiciously as I was walking the large street called Princes street.

I needed to find a place to charge my phone so I could look for somewhere to spend the night. And groceries. My stomach was telling me I’d need something better than the bits and pieces I’d been munching on in the past few days on the road, too afraid to use my magic for food. My back was also aching for a normal bed.

The adventurous feeling that I’d first felt, running away from home is now gone. I hope it doesn’t stay tough for long.

Molly Evans

 

About the Author:

Following a short stint in the military, Reut graduated as a trained Opera Singer from the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance, and then worked in Berlin, singing church music by Mozart, Haydn and Bach. While arranging concerts in the city and managing artists, she discovered her passion for business. She joined fellow entrepreneurs in the 2013-2014 class at the University of Oxford, with a scholarship to study business (MBA), where she founds that creativity goes far beyond art. She later had a taste of corporate life, seeing the inside workings of some of the world’s largest finance, energy and manufacturing companies, and wrote for National Geographic. Leaving the world of corporate drama behind, she now pursues her dreams of becoming a fiction novelist, a self-published vegan author, blogger and youtuber. She first arrived in Scotland as a hiker, eager to explore the mysterious highlands, where she got her inspiration for her books and blogs.

Well, no not really… The true story is:

Once upon a time…

Reut was born in Camelot in the year 1201, following the famous explosion of the northern dragon tower. She has a degree in fantasy and science fiction from the University of Atlantis and this record can be found in the central library, now twenty thousand leagues under the sea. She likes phoenix riding, dragon fighting and painting the roses red. And Grimm’s Fairy Tales.

Website: www.reuatbarak.com

Lost Witch Blog: http://reutbarak.com/category/lostwitch/

Start reading from the beginning of the diary: http://reutbarak.com/diary-of-a-lost-witch-april-10/ 



The author will award a $15 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly dawn winner. 


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday, May 17, 2020

$25 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway Ends 5/31


Have you been reading more lately? I know I have been. I've been depleting my Amazon gift card stash to get even more from my favorite authors. I figure I am supporting them, plus they have been having some great sales to support us! That's why I've teamed up with some great blogs to bring you a fun giveaway. Here's your chance to get a $25 Amazon gift card to get something fun over at Amazon. Will it be something for you or someone else? Here's your chance to win! Head below to enter. Giveaway is open to US & Can and ends on 5/31 at 11:59pm EST. Must be 18+ to enter. Good luck!   


Disclosure: All opinions are 100% mine. This giveaway is in no way associated with, sponsored, administered, or endorsed by Amazon , Facebook, Twitter, Google, Pinterest or any other social media network. All opinions and experiences are Conservamom‘s. Open to US & CAN , must be 18+. Confirmed Winner(s) will be contacted through email and have 48 hours to respond before a new winner will be drawn. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. The sponsor will be responsible for product fulfillment to winner(s) of the giveaway. The disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. For questions or to see your product featured in an Event you can contact  Elia At Conservamom

Saturday, May 16, 2020

Alaskan Dreams by Beth Carpenter Book Tour Grand Finale #ADPrism


On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops you'll
find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below. Don't forget
to also enter the clues from each stop in the additional giveaway here.

Launch - Note from the Author

Clue #5: Capitol of Alaska.
Clue #6: What baby goats are called.

Welcome to the Alaskan Dreams book tour. The working title for this book was “Love, Gold, and Goats” and that’s what it’s all about. Lauren has come to Alaska chasing her dream to be a goat farmer and cheesemaker, but she runs into financial difficulties. Her landlady suggests a possible solution: find a historical gold nugget rumored to be hidden somewhere on the farm. Patrick, the landlady’s grandson, eventually agrees to help, and the treasure hunt begins. . .


“Sure. Maybe he can’t herd goats, but he’s good for mental health, and that has to be a plus for the farm, right?”

Bonnie laughed. “Or as Rosemary would say, he puts out good vibes.”

“Exactly.”

Bonnie snapped her fingers. “Wilson.”

“What?’

“We should call him Wilson. After the Wilson brothers in the Beach Boys. They sang ‘Good Vibrations.’”

“Perfect.” Lauren passed a hand over the dog’s head. “Absolutely perfect.”


The first time she’d looked out the window of her camper to see the goats swiping the grapes she’d left on the picnic table, she thought she must have neglected to latch the gate. The second time, when Spritz showed up in the middle of a walk with Biscotti and Muffin, Lauren knew she’d latched it, but she hadn’t bothered to fasten the safety hasp, and hadn’t realized Spritz knew how to pull out a pin. Today, before she’d gone to the bathhouse, Lauren had latched the gate, sealed it with a cotter pin, and fastened the hasp that should have been impossible for anyone without opposable thumbs to operate. And yet here they were.


"I know I’ve said this many times, but I love reading books that are set in Alaska. There’s something about that remoteness that appeals to me. . . . Alaskan Dreams is about following your heart, finding family, falling in love, and learning how to face tough times without running away. I absolutely loved it, and I highly recommend it to clean romance lovers."

Wishful Endings - Excerpt

“If I want to play bridge at the senior apartments, I’m always welcome. I don’t see any reason to leave my home here.”

“Oh, you don’t?”

“No.”

“Really? Because I think if you look down at the brace on your foot, you’ll find at least one good reason.”

“Patrick Sean O’Shea, are you sassing me?”

“No, ma’am.”

Splashes of Joy - Review

"If you are in the mood for a clean Romance with a little twist of humor and fun, you will enjoy this one. And even though this is a series, I had no problem reading it as a stand alone. Oh and the cover with the adorable white goad is precious!"


"A truly marvelous romance isn’t easy, but Ms. Carpenter does weave a fabulous one. Her characters are down to earth, with believable issues and remarkably easy resolution once communication is open. I truly enjoyed the story, with a mix of romance, history, genealogy, community, and love. Therefore, I am giving Alaskan Dreams by Beth Carpenter, five stars. If you are looking for a sweet romance with lots of heart, I recommend Alaskan Dreams."


"Alaskan Dreams was such an enjoyable book. I loved the goats. . . . I really got into the characters in the book and could visualize them. They were so real to me. The book had me hooked from the very beginning."


"I love the Northern Lights series, and this one didn't disappoint!

The outstanding writings of Author Beth Carpenter, brings the mesmerizing Alaskan terrain and communities "to life"! The reader feel like he/she is there experiencing it all! The characters she has developed feel so real. It is easy to share in their emotions, dilemmas and of life dramas."

EmpowerMoms - Review

"This was another fun “Northern Lights” Alaska novel. Great characters, fun story line . . . I have really enjoyed reading these stories set in Alaska. . . . Highly recommend this series of books! They can be read in order or as stand alone stories."


"I have read and enjoyed books by Beth Carpenter in the past. Alaskan Dreams was no different. . . . I was entertained throughout and is one of those reads that just warms my heart. . . . I recommend it for readers who love to read sweet and clean reads."

Kimber Li - Review

"Check out Alaskan Dreams for a full developed cast of characters you’re sure to bump into at the farmers’ market next trip to Anchorage. You’ll finish the book wondering where you can buy soap and take yoga too."

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

“Not exactly. We moved around a lot.”

“Oh yeah? Me too. My parents were in the diplomatic corps.”

Lauren gave a short laugh that even to her own ears sounded forced. “My mother was...not.” Not unless she was some sort of ambassador of short-lived romance. Her mom must have fallen in love with a dozen different men by the time Lauren graduated from high school, and every time it meant a different school in a different place.

Remembrancy - Review

"This book has a lot of heart. From the friendships Lauren forms to her tenacity to succeed to the softly blooming romance, Alaskan Dreams is one for the keeper shelf. I didn’t want this book to end."

Hallie Reads - Review

"I so enjoyed Alaskan Dreams. Carpenter delivers this romantic adventure with a cast of especially entertaining characters, a natural romance, and heartwarming themes of perseverance, family, and love. One day, I will get to Alaska, but for now, I am content to experience it via good books—and Alaskan Dreams is one such book. Don’t skip it!"


“Congratulations,” Gran told Lauren. “You’ve just doubled the size of your herd.”

Lauren laughed. “I guess so.” Covered with dirt and grime, Lauren brushed a strand of hair back from her cheek, leaving behind a smear of something Patrick chose not to identify, but a proud smile lit up her face, and her green eyes sparkled. “They look good, don’t they?”

“Beautiful,” Patrick agreed. “Absolutely beautiful.”


"Alaskan Dreams by Beth Carpenter is an absolutely delightful read from start to finish. Charming & amusing characters (including the mischievous goats!) – plus a treasure hunt! – keep you fully engaged in the story, and the sweet romance will have you swooning more than once. Prepare to read this book with a permanent grin on your face, and a few chuckles too. Fabulous addition to this series!"


Maybe she was right. If Lauren concentrated on making milk soap from the goats she had now, she could probably meet the goats’ feed and vet bills while they hunted. Bonnie watched her, her eyes wide and encouraging. Lauren smiled. “Okay. Yes. Let’s do it!”

“All right!” Bonnie held up her hand. Lauren laughed and slapped her a high five. The ladies cheered.

Linda wrote Find Nugget on her notepad and underlined it. “Excellent. And if you’re going treasure hunting, I know someone you should talk to. I’ll set up a meeting ASAP.”


"An adorable contemporary romance that will bring a smile to your face and a tear to your eye, Beth Carpenter’s Alaskan Dreams is a tale of hope, courage and new beginnings I couldn’t bear to put down. . . . A terrific book to lose yourself in, Beth Carpenter’s Alaskan Dreams is a charming, emotional and compelling contemporary romance you will not want to miss."


Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...


Alaskan Dreams
(Northern Lights #6)
By Beth Carpenter
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages
May 1st 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

The dream she wants

The love she found

Lauren Shepherd has traded her hectic office job for a quiet life working on an elderly friend’s farm. Risking everything to move to Alaska might just be the perfect opportunity for her—if Lauren can convince handsome and fiercely protective Patrick O’Shea that she’s not swindling his grandmother. But when financial troubles threaten her dream, Lauren and Patrick unite in a hunt for a legendary treasure…only to discover something between them more precious than gold.


(Affiliate links included.)

Other Books in the Series

(Books linked to Amazon affiliate links.)

About the Author


Once upon a time ...

when Beth Carpenter was a little girl, she read everything she could get her hands on, and entertained herself on the school bus by making up stories in her head. Not a lot has changed. She's still consuming books like M&Ms, and spends her days creating happily-ever-afters for her imaginary friends.

She lives in Alaska and Arizona with her husband and an aggressively affectionate fifty-pound lap dog. She loves to hear from readers.


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a signed print copy of An Alaskan Proposal and a $25 Amazon Gift Card
US only
Ends May 20, 2020

Don't forget to also enter the author's scavenger hunt giveaway by grabbing clues from each stop on the tour and entering them HERE.

ENTER HERE
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