Marcy Rachel's 'Colorful Indie' Blog Tour

The Graphic Designer

HOW IT STARTED

In 2011, for NaNoWriMo, Marcy Rachel didn't finish what she was writing. Instead, she decided to make MOCK covers for other authors that were writing to inspire them to finish. After that, people loved what she was doing and they told her that she should sell her covers. Marcy took up on their word and now has her page Marcy Rachel Designs. ♥ Every November is a reminder of why she started doing this -- indie authors. Marcy keeps her prices very low by keeping Indies in mind. Not only does she make book covers, but also design other things.

ABOUT MARCY

Marcy takes pride in her work and will work with you until you are satisfied with the art. It's always been said "Don't judge a book by its cover" and, although this is very true, a nice book cover can catch the eye of more readers. Marcy will always use her skills to her highest to provide you with the best cover she can possibly give you so you can be satisfied. Along with being a freelance designer, working for anyone who needs a great cover, Marcy Rachel is also the official graphics designer of AltWit Press.

About Marcy, From Marcy-

“Since my teenage years, I always liked to look at paintings and sculptures. I loved visiting museums. When I went to college, I enrolled as Chemistry major due to lack of knowledge about degrees and programs offered. I failed Chemistry and moved to Business Administration, where I finished my degree as an Administrative Assistant. While in college, I found out that I could’ve pursue a degree in arts but it was already too late. When I was doing my internship, I discovered a TV show that I loved. I met other fans and learned about fan fiction and graphic design. This was my first encounter with graphic design and video editing and I loved it. I started doing it and taught myself some Photoshop and Movie Maker and I’ve been doing it ever since. Supporting the amazing indie community, whether it be a book cover design, a banner, a logo or even a bookmark is my constant ambition. They are the reason that I now I have my “indie business”, Marcy Rachel Designs.

So this is me, Marcy Rachel, providing just a little insight into how I was inspired and why I design.”

HOW SHE DOES IT

Marcy Rachel Designs obtains most of her resources from stock photo web sites. She first looks on websites that have been researched and that have images that are completely free. Unfortunately, most of these websites do not offer good quality pictures worthy of being in a book cover or any design. This is when she turns to paid images, though royalty free, trying always to find a website where the cost of the graphics is low compared to others. The cost of these images depends on which, and how many images she ultimately uses in the creation of your cover and/or design. The cost of the images is paid by the client and it's not included in the labor of creating the cover. You will always have the option of choosing a less expensive (or more expensive) image. Marcy must have your approval on all the images before finalizing the cover.

PRICING

E-Book covers start at $50! For a full list of services and prices, please visit her website!

REVISIONS

Most cover designers only allow a few revisions. Marcy Rachel Designs has been allowing unlimited revisions, but this takes a lot of time and it's not fair to other people she am working with simultaneously; it slows down her turn-around time for everyone. SO, now she is offering 10 free revisions. Additional revisions will incur in a $5.00 fee per revision.

She will be sending you drafts of the cover as you guys go along and make changes; feel free to suggest any changes you think might make the design better and she will try them!!

WHAT IS NEEDED FROM THE CLIENT

Most authors send a synopsis of their book and/or the first two chapters so that Marcy can get an idea of the concept to portray. Sometimes an author will send her the whole book and allow her to scan it for exciting scenes to get her imagination going. That’s totally up to you! Some pitch in some ideas they already have so she can work with those as well.

*A note about content: Marcy does not read pornographic material in preparation for designing a cover. (Romance novels are ok, even if it has sex scenes, but not actual pornography.) She can use images that depict artistic nudity, but none that portray hate or cruelty towards animals or people.

WHEN THE DESIGN IS CREATED

Marcy Rachel works as quickly as possible, often working nights and weekends to complete a commission. If you have a deadline coming up and need a cover as soon as possible, let Marcy help you out!

WHAT WILL THE CLIENT GET

Marcy Rachel Designs will supply you with two cover files for the web; one for Amazon Kindle's with the new size requirement (2500px on the long side) and a smaller size to use as thumbnail. If you need a custom size, please let her know before work begins. She will include this file size on your package at NO cost. When the design is final, Marcy Rachel Designs owns the rights of the final design and will use it to promote her work. If you want full ownership of the rights, it will require an additional fee.

QUESTIONS?? COMMENTS??

If you have any questions or comments for Marcy, don’t hesitate to contact her at any of the links below or e-mail her at contact@marcyracheldesigns.com

CONNECT WITH MARCY RACHEL DESIGNS

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MarcyRachelDesigns

Twitter: @MarcyRDesigns

Website: http://www.marcyracheldesigns.com

The Schedule

February 1

Tyffani Clark

http://www.tyffanickemp.com/

February 2

Caitlin Hensley

www.authorcaitlinhensley.blogspot.com

February 3

Melissa Lynn Simmons

http://lissalynnsreviews.blogspot.com/

February 4

Tich Brewster

http://lovesallthingsbooks.blogspot.com/

February 5

Candy Smith

http://purpleshadowhunter.blogspot.com/

February 6

Ann Snizek

www.annsnizekauthor.blogspot.com

February 7

Ren Reidy

www.alittlebitofrnrreviews.com

February 8

Sarah Princess Graham

www.FaeBooks.co.uk

February 9

Mera Sampson

http://merasyabooklist.blogspot.com/

February 10

Teresa Gabelman

www.teresagabelman.com

February 11

Jacqueline Driggers

http://jdslzone.blogspot.com/

February 12

Anna Dase

http://www.rbtlreviews.com/

February 13

Cassie Chavez

http://cassiesreviewsde-la-mazing.blogspot.com/

February 14

Ashley Ryan Snyder

http://caughtinasnyderwebb.blogspot.com/

February 15

Pauline Jim Creeden

http://altwitpress.weebly.com/

February 16

Sadrina Cassiopeia

http://booksandtheirwordlyrealm.blogspot.com/

February 17

Christina Condy

http://www.recentread.com/

February 18

Christina Baker Irelan

http://intoxicatedbybooks.blogspot.com/

February 19

Delphina Miyares

http://www.delphinareadstoomuch.com/

February 20

Tawnya Peltonen

http://onemorechapterreviews1.blogspot.com/

February 21

Sara McCluskey

http://www.serendipity-reviews.com/

February 22

Jennifer Martinez

http://booksnbrownies.com/

February 23

Brianna Lee Reviews

http://www.briannaleereviews.blogspot.com/

February 24

Andrea Coventry

http://andisyoungadult.blogspot.com/

February 25

Beth Calloway Edwards

http://curling-up-with-a-good-book.blogspot.com/

February 26

A Page Away

http://apageawaybookreviews.blogspot.com/

February 27

Becky Johnson

http://bexnbooks.blogspot.com.au/

February 28

Tejasvini Rao

http://www.curiositykey.blogspot.com/

Review of 'Eighty-Eighty Keys' by Catherine Lavender

Eighty-Eight Keys  

by Catherine Lavender 

New Adult Contemporary Romantic Suspense 

Published by Whimsical Publications LLC 

Release Date: January 28, 2013 

Heat Level: Sweet 

Word Count: 54,000  

Blurb 

Leah is a young woman who is trying to break free from a strict religious background and pursue her dream as a pianist in the world of show business. While trying to find her independence her heart is held captive by Jason Rowe a local basketball star who established an organization to help troubled youth. When Jason is found murdered in his home, Leah is determined to get answers from a closed investigation. During her state of emotional turmoil, Leah finds comfort not only in the melody of her music, but in the arms of a married man named Calvin. With her dreams at her fingertips, Leah is tangled in a web of lies and deceit. Despite the fear of learning the truth, Leah has to realize that only the truth can set her free.  

A dead lover, with a trail of broken hearts…  

A married man, with a double-life…  

A dream chaser, with a killer at her heels…  

A piano, with eighty-eight keys…

**My thoughts**

This was an intriguing and fast read. Leah has grown up in a home with Pentecostal parents. Her father is the minister and his wife the ever-doting zealous religious mother. The portrayal of these two seemed quite accurate, based on people I have known in real life. Sometimes it was hard to imagine that Leah had come from such a background, because she seemed to with it and so much more contemporary than her parents. I caught glimpses of it here and there as she forged ahead with her dreams and with the guilt that she felt with her relationship with Calvin.

The relationships between characters in this story blend together, with some being much more complicated than others. Small twists in relationships do all gradually come to light. Some of the twists you will figure out on your own before they are revealed. Other ones may surprise you a little bit. Some of the characters will earn the distrust that you have of them from the very beginning. Others may redeem themselves as the book goes on. I know that my gut instinct for a few of the characters, both good and bad, wasn't as accurate as it usually is. I like it when a story can keep me on my toes like that.

Buy links: Paperback \ Kindle

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Review of 'Hannah's Voice' by Robb Grindstaff

Contemporary/Literary
Date Published: 1/15/13

When six-year-old Hannah's brutal honesty is mistaken for lying, she stops speaking. Her family, her community, and eventually, the entire nation struggle to find meaning in her silence.

School officials suspect abuse. Church members are divided—either she has a message from God or is possessed by a demon. Social workers interrupt an exorcism to wrest Hannah away from her momma, who has a tenuous grip on sanity. Hidden in protective foster care for twelve years, she loses all contact with her mother and remains mute by choice.

When Hannah leaves foster care at age eighteen to search for Momma, a national debate rages over her silence. A religious movement awaits her prophecy and celebrates her return. An anarchist group, Voices for the Voiceless, cites Hannah as its inspiration. The nation comes unhinged and the conflict spills into the streets when presidential candidates chime in with their opinions on Hannah—patriotic visionary or dangerous radical. A remnant still believes she is evil and seeks to dispatch her from this world.

Hannah stands at the intersection of anarchists and fundamentalists, between power politics and an FBI investigation. All she wants is to find her momma, a little peace and quiet, and maybe some pancakes.

One word would put an end to the chaos if Hannah can only find her voice.

**My thoughts**

This is the first time in a long time that I have just wanted to dive into my Kindle and smack some people around. Hannah is a precocious six year-old girl who has been taught to always tell the truth. She does what she thinks people expect out of her, and instead it backfires on her. People mistake her words and actions as signs of being abused. Even worse, some think that she is possessed by the Devil. What is even more aggravating is that the story is told from Hannah's point-of-view. That way all of her actions and words make complete sense. It's the adults who are stupid and cause all of the problems. Even the ones who seem like they are going to be the light at the end of the tunnel, or to have any sense whatsoever, completely fail her. I see this happen with kids a lot, though never quite to these extremes. However, I could see something like this potentially happening.

The situation quickly spirals out of control. The adults begin to battle over Hannah and for Hannah, causing one man to get killed, and Hannah to be removed from her home. She becomes selectively mute, choosing to only write her answers instead of speaking them out loud. It's easier that way. No one has listened to her along the way, even when she answers their questions three or four times in a row. But it just causes even more problems for her.

My heart goes out to the poor girl. All she wants is to lead a relatively normal life. She wants her momma back. She wants to eat some pancakes. But the world around her just can't let her be.

This is the kind of book that makes you think while you are reading it. It is the kind of book that will stay with you after you finish it, because you will still mull the ideas over in your head. An excellent read that I highly recommend.


Buy links: Paperback \ Kindle \ Smashwords

Author Bio:

In addition to a career as a newspaper editor, publisher, and manager, I’ve written fiction most of my life. The newspaper biz has taken my family and me from Phoenix, Arizona, to small towns in North Carolina and Texas, and from seven years in Washington, D.C., to five years in Asia. Born and raised a small-town kid, I’m as comfortable in Tokyo or Tuna, Texas. I now reside in a small community in Wisconsin where I manage the business operations of a daily newspaper. The variety of places I’ve lived and visited serve as settings for the characters who invade my head.

I’ve had a dozen short stories published in several print anthologies and e-zines, and several articles on the craft of writing fiction. My first novel, Hannah’s Voice, debuted January 15, 2013, and two more novels are in the works for 2013-14.

I also edit fiction and non-fiction books for authors from around the world. It helps that I’m fluent in five languages: U.S. English, U.K. English, Canadian English, and Australian English, plus my native language, Texan.

AUTHOR CONTACT INFO:

Website: http://robbgrindstaff.com/writing

Facebook Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/robbgrindstaffauthor

Twitter: @RobbWriter

On Evolved Publishing: http://www.evolvedpub.com/press/litfic/hannahs-voice/

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Free eBook! 'Collapse' by Richard Stephenson 2/21-2/22

Collapse

What would it take for the United States to fall from within? In a not too distant future, America is put to the test. With the American people deep in The Second Great Depression and two of the most powerful hurricanes on record to contend with, the United States is in no condition to deal with hidden terrorists on its soil, maniacal politicians, and the most formidable military threat the world has seen since the Third Reich.

This is the story of three men from three very different walks of life: Howard Beck, the world's richest man, also diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome; Richard Dupree, ex-Navy SEAL turned escaped convict; and Maxwell Harris, a crippled, burned-out chief of police of a small Texas town. At first, they must overcome their own struggles and fight for their survival against impossible odds. In the end, the unlikely trio must band together to save their beloved country from COLLAPSE.

Empires topple. Nations crumble. Civilization is fragile. In 2027, America will fall.

About Author Richard Stephenson

Richard Stephenson was born in 1975 in Denison, TX and spent his childhood in North Texas. In 1992, he graduated high school after only three years. He then pursued his degree at Oklahoma Christian University, once again accomplishing the task in three years. Richard then married his best friend before going off to basic training to be a military policeman with the US Army. With his new wife joining the adventure, they spent the next four years at Fort Polk, LA and had two children.

Just before his son turned five, Richard and his wife were told that their oldest child had Asperger's Syndrome. Nine years later, Richard's son would become the inspiration for the character of Howard Beck.

After leaving the armed forces, Richard continued his law enforcement career in the federal sector and has been with the Department of Justice for twelve years.

Follow Richard Stephenson: Website | Facebook | Twitter

Download Collapse for FREE on AmazonFeb 21 & Feb 22.

'Nobody Has to Know' Book Tour & Review

Nobody Has To Know

Nobody Has To Know, Frank Nappi's dark and daring new thriller, tells the story of Cameron Baldridge, a popular high school teacher whose relationship with one of his students leads him down an unfortunate and self-destructive path. Stalked through text-messages, Baldridge fights for his life against a terrifying extortion plot and the forces that threaten to expose him. NHTK is a sobering look into a world of secrets, lies, and shocking revelations, and will leave the reader wondering many things, including whether or not you can ever really know the person you love.




*My thoughts**

Wow.

For once in my life, I am actually speechless after reading a book.

Wow.

I knew this book was going to be intense and controversial. A teacher who gets involved with a student is never a good thing. It's all over the media these days, almost being glamorized. But this book doesn't glamorize any of it. It's a bumpy ride with all kinds of twists and turns, most of which you don't even see coming. I felt like I was blindsided by many of them. And that was what kept the pages turning. I actually stayed up all night reading this one, finally going to sleep at 5 AM because I needed a nap. And then I got up and went right back to it.

My brain hurt as I tried to contemplate being in a similar situation or what I thought the characters should do. I was annoyed at Cam for making his first stupid mistake, let alone all the others that quickly. I thought I may feel sorry for him, and even did once or twice. He has so many issues in his past that he just cannot let go of, and which come full circle in a sense. But mostly, I don't like him, nor any of the other characters. But you aren't supposed to like these characters. That is what makes them even more delicious to read.

Purchase Nobody Has To Know on Amazon.

 

 

"A haunting, briskly-paced page turner that explores the darkest recesses of the human psyche while propelling the reader through an intricate series of hair-raising twists and turns. Nobody Has to Know is a masterfully written tale that is expertly told. Frank Nappi knows how to entertain the reader from start to finish."

-- #1 New York Times Bestselling Author Nelson DeMille
 

About Author Frank Nappi

Frank Nappi has taught high school English and Creative Writing for over twenty years. His debut novel, Echoes From The Infantry, received national attention, including MWSA's silver medal for outstanding fiction. His follow-up novel, The Legend of Mickey Tussler, garnered rave reviews as well, including a movie adaptation of the touching story "A Mile in His Shoes" starring Dean Cain and Luke Schroder. Frank continues to produce quality work, including Sophomore Campaign, the intriguing sequel to the much heralded original story and the just released thriller, NOBODY HAS TO KNOW, which received an endorsement from #1 New York Times bestselling author Nelson DeMille. Frank is presently at work on a third installment of his Mickey Tussler series and his next thriller. He lives on Long Island with his wife Julia and their two sons, Nicholas and Anthony.

Follow Frank Nappi Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

Follow the Tour

Tour prize is a $50 Amazon Gift Card. Fill out the form below to Enter

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'Food for a Hungry Ghost' Book Tour Blast!

Food for a Hungry Ghost

Life was pleasantly normal for Gala Rhyce—that is, until her mom moved the family to Flagler Beach, Florida. Now—despite the palm trees, ocean breezes, and cute surfer guys—Gala is miserable…until she meets Trista. Trista makes a great friend, except for one thing: she's a ghost.

The girls learn to communicate, and through Gala, Trista finds a way to experience the world again. As Gala’s romance with a heartthrob poet begins to bloom, her unlikely friendship with Trista continues—until the ghost wants more than Gala can give, and things start to go horribly wrong.

Filled with horror, romance, and humor, Food for a Hungry Ghost is about friendship, trust, jealousy, and boundaries that get pushed too far.

How much can Gala endure? Will she survive the clutches of the Hungry Ghost?

Buy on Kindle / Paperback Author's Website

Follow Becky on Facebook / Goodreads / Website

Becky Pourchot is the author of two books: I Look Better in Binary and Food for a Hungry Ghost and had published over one hundred articles ranging in topic from haunted museums to burlesque dancers. Ms. Pourchot grew up in Madison, Wisconsin, but has spent her last year and a half enjoying the sand and surf in Flagler Beach, Florida, where she now lives with her husband, three kids, and a grouchy parrot named Zoey.  

FOLLOW THE TOUR


February 20 - Blast http://www.promotionalbooktours.com

February 21
1. http://mommyreadstoomuch.com
2. http://www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com

February 22
1. http://takingtimeformommy.com
2. http://www.thestuffofsuccess.com

February 25
1. http://momzunas.blogspot.com/
2. http://www.amamascorneroftheworld.com

February 26
1. http://bibliophilesthoughtsonbooks.blogspot.com/
2.Interview - http://ereadingonthecheap.com

February 27
1. http://www.craftymomof3.com
2. http://nikita-mattes.blogspot.com/

February 28
1. http://andisyoungadult.blogspot.com
2. http://manicmamaof2.wordpress.com
3. http://inspirationsbysimone.blogspot.com

March 1
1. http://mamasgotflair.com
2. http://www.prettyopinionated.com

March 4
1. http://booktester.blogspot.com
2. http://StressedRach.co.uk
3. http://simplyathomemom.com/

Tour prize is a $25 Amazon Giftcard and Food for a Hungry Ghost Bag Fill out the form below to enter:

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'Flying Solo' by Jeanette Vaughan

Historical Fiction
Date Published: May 2012

Sometimes the choices we make in life have devastating consequences.

French Cajun Nora Broussard Greenwood was born with the wanderlust. On a whim, she takes flying lessons. For the first time in her life, she feels emancipated and free. When she falls in love with her flying instructor, she asks for a divorce. This doesn’t jive with her ruthless and controlling, Catholic husband who kicks her to the curb without her children. Desperate to get them back, she steals his plane.

What’s it really like in New Orleans during Mardi Gras? Find out in “sexy, sassy” FLYING SOLO as two divas tear up the town in this riveting romp of beignets, bourbon and bedlam. “A book to inspire women,” FLYING SOLO elicits admiration for a character who defies convention to overcomes domestic violence and gain independence.

Read an excerpt

The convertible, blue Cadillac pulled into the parking lot outside the terminal. “You know, the Greenwoods have their plane out here,” said Nora sipping on her Coca-cola.

“Well that outta make it real convenient for you to have something to fly when know how, honey.” Charlene was trying to be supportive. “Does Frank fly?”

“No. Not that I know of. I don’t think he was ever interested in taking lessons. They mostly use it for company trips and usually hire a pilot.”

“Oh, well that makes sense. They can sure afford it.”

Now that they were here, Nora was getting butter flies in her stomach. Maybe she wasn’t cut out to be Amelia Earhart after all. But then, as they were get ting out of the car, she saw him.

Tall, arresting. Nora couldn’t believe it. She was sure it was the pilot she had seen in New York. She never forgot a face. And no one could ever forget those deep, azure blue eyes. Nora stopped short in her tracks.

Suddenly, Charlene looked up. “Who in the hell is that? Kiss my grits that is a fine specimen.”

“Sssshh,” Nora grabbed her arm. “He might hear you.”

“Well, I’m sure he’s heard many a cat call before. Lord have mercy, he is bee-uw-tee-ful. Stop my beatin’ heart.”

“Charlene,” Nora gasped as he approached.

“How’d do ladies. Coming out for a flight?” His baritone, smokey voice nearly made them both faint.

Charlene stuck out the flier. “No. We, uh . . . well she is here to check on some flying lessons.” She shoved Nora forward. It was only then that Nora took off her sunglasses and looked the pilot in the face.

“What the heck?” the pilot looked bemused. “I can’t believe it. The girl with the chocolate, brown eyes.”

Charlene looked confused. “Did I miss some thing? Do you two know each other?”

For once, Nora was lost for words. Lost in his look. His smile. His ever-so-sexy voice. Normally, she wasn’t the blushing type, but she sure was today.

“Not really,” the pilot explained. “You could say that we shared a cup of coffee. Almost. A very long time ago.”

“Yes. A very long time ago. In New York.” How well Nora remembered.

Charlene couldn’t wait to hear that story. New York. How many times had Nora been to New York? Her honeymoon? On Nora’s honeymoon she meets this dream boat? Why in the heck was she still mar ried to Frank? This was just too good.

“Why don’t you ladies allow me to introduce my self? I’m Steve Novak. It’s my flying service that’s offering the lessons. I’m also one of the instructors.”

Nora thought she felt her heart skip a beat. She knew it was racing. She felt her face grow hot. Oh my God. The pilot from New York. The Adonis now standing before her was going to be her instructor?

Charlene dug her fingernails into Nora’s arm. Steadying her friend, she propelled her towards the lobby. “Well sugar, let’s just hear all about it.”

Buy links: Paperback \ Kindle \ Barnes & Noble

Author Bio:

Jeanette Vaughan is an award winning writer and story teller. Not only is she published in the periodicals and professional journals of nursing, but also in the genre of fiction. Out on her sheep farm, she has written several novels and scripts. Her screenplay "Angel of Mercy" won the outstanding nursing research award from Texas Tech University Health Science Center. In addition, she was named Distinguished Alumni for the school of nursing in 2001 for her written work and volunteerism for the Sydney Olympic Games. Jeanette has practiced nursing in the fields of critical care and trauma. A native of Fort Worth, she is the mother of four children, including two Navy pilots. Jeanette lives in a Victorian farmhouse out in the pastures of northeast Texas with her sheep, chickens, donkeys and sheep dogs.

Contact links:

Blog site: www.jeanettevaughan.com

Publisher's website: www.ageviewpress.com

Publisher's Facebook www.facebook.com/AgeViewPress

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Jeanette.T.Vaughan

Twitter: www.twitter.com/VaughanJeanette

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=jeanette+vaughan

LinkedIn: http://linkd.in/XbvezJ

'The Witch Hunter' by Nicole R. Taylor Cover Reveal!

Enchanted Book Promotions is hosting a cover reveal for 'The Witch Hunter' today. 'The Witch Hunter' is the first book in a new paranormal romance series by author Nicole R. Taylor.

I was born into the world covered in blood, and that's exactly the way I left it.

  Ever since, I have been damned to walk the boundary between life and death alone. Unwillingly turned and left to my nightmare, I have seen men commit countless horrors and committed many of my own.

  My origins shall remain unknown, my true self hidden. I have been called by many names, but in this life I am known as the Witch Hunter. I have been asleep these past 150 years, until I was awoken by a haunting call.

Zachary Degaud was twenty three when he died. The problem was, he didn't stay that way.

Present day, he's just another vampire with another unremarkable story. That is, until he manages to provoke a two thousand year old witch named Katrin, who wants to make him pay in the most horrible way imagined.

Along with his brother Sam, newly made vampire Liz and their only witch ally, Gabby, his only chance for survival is to summon the ancient and unpredictable vampire known as the Witch Hunter.

Zac is just looking for a way out of his psychopathic witch problems, but instead will find himself falling head first into a blood feud that has stretched thousands of years.

Aya has been asleep for the past 150 years, until she was awoken by a haunting call. The witch she has been hunting for thousands of years, Katrin, has resurfaced and marked a young, annoyingly arrogant vampire by the name of Zachary Degaud. Unless she does something, he will die a slow and painful death. He has given her an opportunity to end the witch, but does she want to help him or leave him to his fate?

Zac will get under her skin like no one else has and she just might find herself making the ultimate sacrifice before he is gone forever.

They will both have to choose sides and look deep within themselves before the end. But, what Zac learns about himself, will surprise him most of all.

Read an Excerpt

Gabby had found her grimore, her families’ book of spells and incantations, amongst some of her Grams' things in the attic. It was only then she began to better understand her affinity with magic.

She began visiting the cemetery near the old Degaud Manor, conducting her 'experiments' as she called them, trying different spells and rituals that were written in the grimore. Silly things, like lighting candles, making things levitate and communing with the earth. The last was her favourite; every witch had an earth sense of varying strengths. She didn't quite understand what it meant, but when she concentrated, she could feel living things around her. Plants, trees, insects.

That was why she was surprised at first when she met the brothers. She was sitting cross-legged in the old cemetery early last winter, feeling the shift of the seasons in the plants about her, when she began to feel uneasy. She understood later that it was her latent power warning her that she was being watched. She was startled when upon opening her eyes, she saw a man standing in front of her.

It was as if he was a statue, until he grinned lopsidedly at her. "Well, well, well. What do we have here?"

Gabby panicked a little. She hadn't sensed the man at all and she could always feel people when she had her earth sense focused. That would mean that the man was... dead? That couldn't be right. She scrambled to her feet and took a few steps back. "Leave her alone, Zac." Another man had appeared beside the first out of thin air.

The first man, Zac, rolled his eyes, "I wasn't going to eat her, brother, if that's what you're thinking. She's a witch and I don't want her to cast any witchy juju spell on me."

"You're both dead," she stammered.

"As a door nail," Zac grinned.

"Forgive my brother," the other man said, stepping forward. "I think you know what we are. We can't hide from you, but we mean you no harm."

"Vampires," Gabby said, finally realizing. The only undead creature that she was aware existed.

"Ten points to Glinda," clapped Zac.

"Ignore him," said the man. "I'm Sam, the moron is my brother Zac."

It took her a while to trust the vampire brothers, being their mortal enemy and all. She quickly came to realize that they were different, despite all their faults. Zac was always an asshole and Sam was always kind hearted, but they never hurt or compelled anyone. They'd ingrained themselves into the town as normal young men. Sam had even got a job as a gardener with help from her childhood friend, Alex.

So, when Gabby walked into Max's, the bar they frequented after work, she smiled when she saw them sitting in a booth along the far wall. "Happy birthday you musty old man," she elbowed Zac as she sat down.

"Please, don't remind me," his eyes rolled in exasperation.

"Can I get you a drink?"

"Go for it Tabitha." They watched her retreating form. "I've been looking for you all afternoon," Zac hissed, once Gabby was out of earshot.

"I was out with Liz," Sam fidgeted.

Zac didn't notice the gesture, he was too busy eyeballing Alistair, who had just walked in. "Uh oh," he gritted his teeth.

Sam frowned. He knew all too well from his tone that Zac had gotten himself in trouble again. "What did you do, Zac?"

"I didn't start it, just so you know."

"Start what?" Sam groaned, like they needed more trouble.

"Big bad, super creepy vampire over yonder is out to get us," he gestured towards Alistair, who was now over at the bar. "He's looking for some black haired, blue eyed woman who's pissed him off and he seems to think we know something about it."

"Obviously, we don't," said Sam, trying to keep his voice even.

"I told him as much, but I don't think it matters anymore," he grimaced.

Sam sighed, "You couldn't help but talk back, could you?"

Zac raised his hands in defence, "Hey, he came in talking like he was out of Lord of the Rings, even you couldn't pass on the opportunity." Looking over to Alistair, he noticed Gabby standing next to him. They were talking, and he was buying her a drink! Bloody hell, did she know he was a vampire? What kind of witch was she?

Sam snorted his disagreement, and before he could speak Zac interrupted, "Yeah, yeah. Don't say it, bro. I get it. We can't afford to be exposed as blood sucking parasites. Believe me. I get it."

His brother sighed, "We have another issue to deal with." Zac raised his eyebrows expectantly. Like they needed more issues with a vampire bent on making their life hell.  "Liz and I had a run in with the werewolves," Sam said, not looking at his brother.

"Oh, so you want to have a go at me when you've been out pissing off the puppy dogs?" Zac scowled. "Did you piss in their territory?"

Sam nodded, reluctantly agreeing with his brother, "Seems like they want to claim the land bordering the manor."

"Sounds like they already have," Zac sneered.

"They warned us off, but given any opportunity they will attack us anyway," he said through gritted teeth. "They're getting bolder."

Zac felt the anger rising within him. The dogs had threatened his brother and Liz. She was his brother’s girl, but he had fallen for her just as hard. The only thing that had stopped the wolves from attacking was the fact that the moon wasn't even half full yet. He was thinking about the many ways to kill the werewolf pack, when Gabby sat back down at the table.

"I see Sam told you about the pack," she said, when she noticed the scowl etched on his face.

"Wait until you hear who Zac pissed off today," Sam changed the subject.

"Your boyfriend over at the bar," Zac inclined his head towards Alistair.

"He's a..." Gabby stammered, suddenly feeling foolish.

"Yeah," Zac rolled his eyes. "What kind of witch are you that your witchy compass doesn't work?"

"It's serious Gabby. He could expose us all, or kill us. So stay away from him, okay?" Sam warned.

Gabby fidgeted nervously and pushed away her glass, as if she was suddenly wary of drinking it.

Zac snorted, "What, do you think he put a vampire roofie in there?"

"Shut up," she hissed.

And now for the amazing cover of The Witch Hunter!

Author Bio

Nicole R. Taylor is an Australian born paranormal, fantasy and contemporary fiction author. She is a graduate of the University of Ballarat Professional Writing and Editing programme and is a former music memorabilia sales person and grocery merchandiser. She currently lives in Ballarat, Victoria, Australia with a two year old rescue cat named, Burger. She enjoys reading, writing (of course!), traveling and a little too much chocolate. One day she hopes to sky dive, but has to work up the courage first.

The first in her new paranormal fantasy series, The Witch Hunter Saga is available in e-edition and print from March 20th 2013

Learn more about her writing at www.nicolertaylorwrites.com

She may be contacted by email at nicole.this.is@gmail.com

Visit her online:

www.nicolertaylorwrites.com
twitter.com/nicole_noir
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nicole-R-Taylor/452118154855116
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6907729.Nicole_R_Taylor

'Fractured Paradise' by Alexa Bourne

Title: Fractured Paradise

Series: Honor Guard Series #3

Author: Alexa Bourne

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Publisher: Decadent Publishing

Format: Ebook

Length: 88 pages

Book Description:

Technical analyst Rachel Grant arrives in Sunderland intent on tidying up her grandmother’s cottage, but the disaster she discovers requires more than a gentle sweep of a dust rag. Determined to please the most important person in her life, she trades her computer keyboard for a hammer and nails to make the repairs. She doesn’t count on the chilly reception from the locals who want to claim Nan’s home as their own.

Tour guide Aidan Camden wants to buy the cottage. He’s determined to acquire the property no matter how attractive he finds the current occupant. However, when tragedy strikes, throwing them both into a tailspin, he discovers he wants more than the house. He longs for the sexy American as well. Can Aidan put his own ghosts to rest in time to save the woman who’s claimed his heart?

 

Read an excerpt:

“A bit of a disappointment, I expect.” A rich, deep voice with a twinge of an English accent drifted from behind her.

She whirled around. Her hair whipped against her cheeks and made her wish for the hundredth time today she hadn’t packed all her hair clips.

“Sorry. I didn’t mean to frighten you.”

The stranger paused beside the edge of the clearing, and her heart stuttered. Although no one would mistake him for a Hollywood leading man, this guy could command attention by stepping into a room. Or onto an island.

“That’s okay. You didn’t.” She permitted her gaze to wander over him.

He kept his hands stuffed into the front pockets of faded jeans. The wind tore at his gray long-sleeved shirt, outlining the contours of a well-defined chest. Unruly light brown hair touched his collar. High cheekbones accented his deep-set eyes. Not friendly eyes, but no threat lay behind them either, at least none she could uncover.

He pulled a hand from his pocket and held it out. “Aidan Camden of Dawson Tours, your neighbor from across the water.” He tipped his head toward the way he’d come.

Camden. His name sounded familiar, but why? She shook his hand with a hint of hesitation. “Rachel Grant.”

His fingers warmed her skin, his grip strong and confident. Awareness trailed along her arm. Then again, it could be the accent that made her skin tingle. British accents never failed to stir her emotions.

A trace of a smile danced on his lips. “Aye, the American.”

Huh. “You know of me?”

A low rumble of laughter slipped from his mouth, the sound relaxing her from deep within. “Word travels fast here. I saw you paddling your way out.”

Paddling? No, he’d seen her fighting with the oars. Until today, she’d never set foot on a boat, much less held an oar. But she would consider swimming across the Atlantic Ocean if it would make Nan happy.

“Tell me, Mr. Camden, are you in the habit of following foreigners?”

“No, lass, but you’re all the talk of the Roker area. The mighty Grant descendant, come to see about selling the family cottage.”

Selling?

Buy links:  Amazon | Decadent Publishing | All Romance Ebooks | Barnes & Noble

About the Author:

Alexa Bourne is a teacher by day and a romantic suspense writer by nights, weekends, and all school holidays. She also teaches online classes for writers throughout the year. She is thrilled to be writing for Decadent Publishing and to have the chance to share her love of Great Britain with readers everywhere.

When she's not concocting sinister plots and steamy love scenes or traveling and exploring new cultures, Alexa spends her time reading, watching brainless TV and thinking about exercising. She loves to interact with readers, so visit her web page, hang out at her blog, follow her on Twitter or drop her a note at Alexa@alexabourne.com!

Website | Blog | Twitter: @AlexaBourne | Facebook | Goodreads |

Decadent Publishing

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For more information about Decadent Publishing authors, books, and their submissions guidelines, visit www.decadentpublishing.com.

Decadent Publishing is current accepting submissions in all sub-genres of romance, including their ongoing series'.

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'Player' by Laura DeLuca Book Tour Blast!

Player

Joshua Hanover had it all. He was handsome, rich, athletic, and had always been popular with the ladies. Yet, until he gets paired up with his beautiful but shy lab partner, Rosa, he never allowed himself to fall in love. As the chemistry between them grows, Josh realizes that his player days have come to end. But it seems his change of heart has come too late. Not only is Rosa leery of his bad boy reputation, he has four vindictive ex-girlfriends who are on a rampage. At first he doesn’t take their threats seriously, but then his tires are slashed, someone tries to poison him, and one of the girls turns up dead. Josh doesn’t know who to trust, but one thing is certain. It definitely isn’t worth the price he’s paying to be a player.  

Follow the author Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads | Pinterest

 

Buy on Amazon / Smashwords

 

Laura “Luna” DeLuca lives at the beautiful Jersey shore with her husband and four children. She loves writing in the young adult genre because it keeps her young at heart. In addition to writing fiction, Laura is also the sole author of a popular review blog called New Age Mama. She is an active member of her local pagan community, and has been studying Wicca for close to eight years. Her current works include Destiny, Destiny Unveiled, Phantom, Morrigan and Player.  






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