Book Tour for Racing to Love by Amy Gregory (Guest Post & GIVEAWAY)

Competition between the sexes can sometimes lead to sexy encounters and with Racing to Love by Amy Gregory, that's exactly what happens.  So let's learn more about this book with a visit from Amy as well as an awesome excerpt.  Make sure to read all the way to the end of this post for a chance to win a copy of this book as well.  So let's get right to the fun......

I do a lot of things backwards from normal, why not write that way too?  A total self-proclaimed pantser, I don’t set off with a notebook full of well thought-out scenes, the beginning, middle and end all plotted out.  Here’s the kicker, I don’t even have my characters fully developed when I start out.  Racing to Love is a series, so I’ve got my leading men named and in each book the reader gets to hear their individual stories and follow their journeys as they find themselves running full speed into love.  Here’s a secret, in all four books, it’s a matter of love at first sight. 

As I write I keep a notebook by my side.  When pertinent details come into play, I write it all down for future reference and I go back to typing.  I have a vision of what they look like physically, but that is about it.  Their fears, their goals, their personal dramas that have altered their views on life and love, well…I figure that out as I go along. 

I tried to write the other way, tried to come up with the complete story line before actually writing in the meat of the story.  I cannot even begin to tell you what a mistake that was!  I couldn’t think, I couldn’t create, I was blank…so was the screen I was staring at!  So, I threw organization out the window and went back to my happy little world of discovering the story as I go along.  In doing so, book three of the series just flowed.  Start to finish, completely edited and submitted in less than three months. 

So, the moral of the story is, as long as when your story is done, the last line of the last chapter is written, if you have fallen in love with your characters…so will your readers!  It doesn’t matter how they come to life, just as long as they do.  I hope my readers fall in love with Carter, Jesse, Eli and Alex like I have!

Racing to Love (Book One, Carter's Treasure) by Amy Gregory

From the outside, Molly West had everything, beauty, brains, and a career she’d retired from not once, but twice.  Being in the limelight and in a sport that was male driven, she was often surrounded men.  She ignored first the boys, and as she got older, the men.  Unfortunately, they were all the same, all after one thing, and she had absolutely no use for them.  Her cold shoulder and patented not a chance in hell look were usually enough to get her point across.  Occasionally, she had to resort to her sass—and her brother.

Molly had no plans in changing what was a perfectly good system. That is until she walked into the pits.  When she stood toe-to-toe with the sex in jeans, she knew right then and there that the man her adoptive mother always told her was out there, was now standing right in front of her.

Carter Sterling had traveled the racing circuit since he was a boy.  He’d heard all the old standbys, She’s out there somewhere, love comes along when you least expect it.  Good things come to those that… Yeah, he’d heard them all.  The last place he expected to meet the love of his life was on a pro track.  All she did was smile, and he knew, looking into her sapphire blue eyes, Molly West was his.  Forever. 

If it was only that easy.  From the moment he laid eyes on her, he had a gripping feeling in him.  An overwhelming need to protect her.  A girl he’d just met.  Carter had learned a long time ago that gut feelings are almost never wrong. 

Molly now held his heart in her hands, but it was going to take a lot more than just love to protect her from the past she thought she’d buried a long time ago.

EXCERPT:

They continued to walk back toward the pits, but he stopped when they were in the darkened hallway, just before they would have rounded the corner and been seen.

Molly’s heart sped.

He was still holding her hand, but turned to face her as he placed his other hand on her waist. She sucked in a breath when he stepped forward. Her first instinct was to be anxious, to cower back, but something in those ice blue eyes told her she didn’t have to be afraid.

When he had leaned in to kiss her when they were sitting on the track, she’d panicked. And then when he had started to move away, she’d panicked again—for a different reason entirely.

Those flip-flopping emotions were about to drive her crazy.

Now, in the dimmed corridor, Molly closed her eyes to catch her breath and to search for a decision. He’d been rubbing his thumb on her waist, but his movements stopped when her eyes dropped closed. The soothing strokes didn’t continue until she finally reopened her eyes and dragged her attention up his chest and past his Adam’s apple. She continued up until she locked her gaze with his. When she offered him a hesitant smile, he began stroking her again with a warm smile on his lips.

Staring down at her, he let go of her hand and skimmed the back of his over her cheek. She felt her heart thundering, her pulse racing when she ran her hands up his chest, feeling each and every rippled muscle. She’d never purposely touched a man like this before. Sure, she’d felt Brody’s muscles when she’d smacked him for one reason or another. Or when trying to push him off of her after he’d wrestled her to the ground being an ornery brother and all. But this? This was foreign.

Her eyes were back on her own fingers, taking everything in. She stopped at his heart and could feel it pounding hard beneath the soft cotton t-shirt.

“Just so you know…” he started in his slow, sexy voice.

She could tell he was waiting for eye contact again before continuing. “Yeah?” she whispered.

“I’m going to fall in love with you.”

BUY AT:   Amazon (Paperback) | Amazon (Kindle Edition) | Barnes & Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Amy Gregory leads an incredibly active lifestyle in Kansas City with her husband and their three fantastic kids who keep them running in three very different directions.  When she’s not rushing her oldest daughter to tumbling, her youngest daughter to music lessons, or sitting track-side watching her son practice motocross, she’s taking the few minutes in between to scribble the next pages in her Racing to Love series.

When asked, “When do you have time to write?” Amy Gregory giggles.  “In bits and pieces,” she says. 

Amy is known for her snarky, off the cuff sense of humor, which you’ll find shining through in the characters she’s created.  Her debut novel, Racing to Love, Carter’s Treasure, is set for release June 7, 2012.

I’ve spent my whole life trying to figure out what I want to be when I grow up, and now I’ve finally found it. – Amy Gregory

Visit Amy at http://www.amygregory548.blogspot.com.

**********GIVEAWAY**********

Prize is an eBook copy of Racing to Love.

-Giveaway is OPEN TO EVERYONE!

-To be entered, just leave a comment, along with your email addy.

-Winner will be chosen using random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to my winner's confirmation email or a new winner will be chosen.

-Giveaway ends at 11:59 PM CST on 7/6.

*To learn more about this book and for more chances to win, you can visit the other blogs hosting this tour which are listed here.

Freedom to Read Giveaway Hop

I love this time of year with the warm temps, grilling out every night, and the gorgeous pyrotechnic displays that make up the 4th of July celebrations.  I'm holding my own celebration here with the help of Mundie Moms and I Am a Reader, Not a Writer along with tons of other blogs.  Entry into my giveaway will be very simple which will allow you plenty of time to hop to the other participating blogs.  I wish everyone luck and thank you for stopping by.  Have a wonderful summer!

**********GIVEAWAY**********

Prize is paperback copies of these 4 books (titles are A Warrior's Promise/Donna Fletcher, Between the Duke and the Deep Blue Sea/Sophia Nash, Pamela Palmer/A Blood Seduction, & Confessions from an Arranged Marriage/Miranda Neville) along with a big pile of author swag!

-Giveaway is OPEN TO US ENTRANTS!
-To be entered you MUST BECOME A FOLLOWER (through any of the listed means), tell me the method/username you follow under and include your email addy.  That's it!
-Winner will be chosen using random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to my winner's confirmation email or a new winner will be chosen.
-Giveaway ends at 11:59 PM CST on 7/5.

Feature & Follow Friday..............

Hello all, it's that day of the week where we learn new things about each other and discover new blogs along the way.  We also help each other by becoming followers of one another.  Normally that following would be through GFC (which would be great if you'd still take a few seconds to do), but with that being eliminated for certain blogs (a big boo-hiss to that) I now ask that you follow through a RSS Feed (or Twitter, FB, or email) which you can find to the right.  I want to thank all of you ahead of time who choose to become a follower and make sure to let me know in the comments if you're new so I doubly make sure to follow you back.  And now for this weeks get to know me question....

Q: Birthday Wishes -- Blow out the candles and imagine what character could pop out of your cake...who is it and what book are they from?

 

A:  With my answer this week those who've visited before will think I never read any other books than JR Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood series.  I can't help my obsession, and it is MY birthday after all, and he's totally drool-worthy....He's Qhuinn, and I know he only has eyes for Blay, but again...it's my birthday wish.  I love his bad boy look and attitude and his scarred soul has me wanting to soothe him.  Maybe one day another character will take his place in my heart, but not yet.

Book Tour for Accidental SEAL by Sharon Hamilton (Promo & GIVEAWAY)

Sharon Hamilton is a new to me author, but after reading her new release I'm definitely intrigued by her writing and look forward to the next book in this series.  Accidental Seal is full of action, both in and out of the bedroom and makes for a steamy summertime read.  Keep reading to get a taste of this book and sign up to receive an awesome goodie.

Accidental SEAL by Sharon Hamilton

Christy Nelson embarks on her new career in Real Estate by holding her first open house. Entering the wrong house, by accident, she finds the nude sleeping body of a young man.

Navy SEAL Kyle Lansdowne, on a mission to find his AWOL Team buddy, is staying at his buddy’s home while investigating the disappearance.  When someone breaks in, he takes protective measures. He doesn’t expect to find that a beautiful young woman is responsible for his teammate’s abduction.

What starts out as a meeting by accident becomes a hot affair neither one is ready for. Kyle is conflicted about getting Christy involved in his mission, but his hand is forced when he learns the same San Diego gang responsible for his teammate’s abduction has kidnapped her.

Battling a cadre of dirty law enforcements hell-bent on getting military equipment, especially state-of-the-art firepower, Kyle is forced to admit that he would die to protect her.

EXCERPT:

Christy’s red Honda looked like a wet cherry lollipop, shined and polished to perfection. Cute and shiny on the outside, but hot and sweltering on the inside. Sitting in the cramped front seat, she stopped and squinted to make out house numbers, comparing them to the address Wayne had minutely scribbled on the back of his business card. Then she found it.

The house appeared nicer than he’d described. The advertised price, he said, was the lowest in the neighborhood, going back ten years. Hopefully she’d pick up a young couple out looking for their first home, complete with good credit and a wad of cash from Mommy and Daddy. Wouldn’t it be great to make a sale on her very first day on the job?

She parked in the driveway, popped the trunk, and brought out three sandwich signs with the Patterson Realty logo, on loan from Wayne. He was out with his family today. She hoped the Somervilles didn’t stop by since she’d feel uncomfortable looking into the eyes of Wayne’s wife, a woman he probably cheated on and would again, if he got the chance. One of Christy’s other rules: no married men. She wasn’t about to change that, either.

A perfumed late spring breeze blew softly against her face and neck, sending a thrill up her spine. The air ripened with possibility. This was her favorite time of year.

The walkway looked freshly swept. After placing one sign in the front yard, she stacked the other two beside the front door and inserted Wayne’s key. While the lock accepted the new shiny silver metal, the tumblers stayed in place, frozen.

Way to go Wayne. Waste my time and give me the wrong key!

Irritation bubbled, ruining her cheerful, spring-induced mood. She yanked on the front handle and pushed against it out of frustration. It opened.

“Anybody home?” Her voice wavered like that of a small child. She waited. No answer.

Christy stepped inside, onto a striped cotton rug lying cockeyed behind the front door. The smell of fried food hit her. She walked across the wooden floor of the living room, her stilettos clacking. She cracked open a window. Air scented by fresh blossoms poured in, diluting the smells of ordinary life. She grabbed the newspaper tossed on top of an ottoman and folded the crinkling pages under her arm, aiming for the kitchen to find a trashcan. She passed the dining room table, which was strewn with a map of the area, a couple of felt-tipped pens, and a letter-sized yellow lined tablet. She collected these items as well and made her way to the kitchen.

Christy threw the tablet and newspaper onto the tiled countertop and placed her hands on her hips to assess the scene before her. She squinted at several days’ worth of dishes piled high in the sink. Next to it, a large stainless steel bowl sat encrusted with dark green and purple leaves at the bottom, evidence of a salad—several days old.

Maybe Wayne had neglected to tell the sellers about the open house. She decided it was entirely possible. “How can you expect to sell a house this way?” she muttered, then sighed and removed her jacket, slinging it over the back of a clean-looking kitchen chair. She decided to take a tour of the place, checking for other things to clean or straighten before she’d be ready to hold it open.

But this house was such a mess, an uneasy darkness chilled her. She tiptoed down the carpeted hallway, feeling like an intruder, past empty rooms, to a closed door at the end.

Probably the master bedroom.

Something about the whole scene was strange. These people left without cleaning up dinner from several days before, in a hurry. She’d been told short sale houses rarely showed pride of ownership, but this felt absolutely creepy, like she’d stepped on someone’s grave. The hair at the back of her neck bristled as she gripped the doorknob. She lightly tapped with her other hand, and then opened the door.

A naked body lay on the bed.

Holy crap.

Hesitant to look at first, she pushed through her fear. She saw movement. Tanned skin, a muscular male chest that rose and fell. Earphones were wired to a phone balanced on his open palm. The man was very much alive, and healthy. Her eyes drifted further down to a dusting of dark brown hair that led to an impossible-to-miss erection. His penis stood at attention, like a deep rose-colored light standard under a matching fireman’s hat of deeper pink.

Blood pumped to her ears, making them ring, as her heart raced. A wave of anger coursed over her at the realization she had been the victim of a very sick joke perpetrated by Wayne and one of his disgusting friends.

Christy silently closed the door and tiptoed back down the carpeted hallway, her three-inch heels wobbling on the thick, padded surface. Her knees knocked against each other as she picked up speed, her anger building. She grabbed her jacket, keys, and purse, and crossed the living room, headed toward the front door. She was almost free.

Christy wouldn’t give the prankster the satisfaction of knowing she had even seen him. She wanted to stomp her foot and kick something through the window. This was Wayne’s doing.

That sonofabitch and his lopsided plugs will pay for this.

She pulled the door handle and was rewarded by the smells of a warm spring day bleeding through the inch-wide crack she’d created. An enormous hand and forearm came from behind her and slammed the door shut. She saw a familiar blue-green tattoo of some animal tracks on his muscled forearm just before his other hand gripped her mouth. Callused fingers pinched the sides of her cheeks. The grip hurt.

Order from Amazon HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Sharon Hamilton loves all things paranormal: Angels, Dark Angels, Watchers, Guardians, Upogenie and Vampires. She also has developed a series of hot romantic suspense Navy SEAL stories. Her characters follow a spicy road to redemption through passion and true love—not exactly what they taught you in Sunday School! 

Sharon is represented by agent Jill Marsal, and has finaled in several erotic, contemporary,  paranormal and single title contests over the past three years. She regularly participates in four RWA and California Writer chapters, and two blogs.

An avid organic vegetable and flower gardener, Sharon and her husband live in the Wine Country in Northern California, where most of her stories take place.

Website: http://www.sharonhamiltonauthor.com/
Blog: http://sharonhamiltonauthor.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSharonHamilton
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/#!/sharonlhamilton

**********GIVEAWAY**********

A Mystery Prize is Up for Grabs!

-Giveaway is OPEN TO EVERYONE!

-To be entered, just leave a comment, along with your email addy.  Must leave your email addy or you won't have the chance to receive the mystery goodie.

-Giveaway ends at 11:59 PM CST on 6/29.

*To learn more about this book, visit the other blogs hosting this tour listed here. 

Review for Accidental SEAL by Sharon Hamilton

Christy Nelson embarks on her new career in Real Estate by holding her first open house. Entering the wrong house, by accident, she finds the nude sleeping body of a young man.

Navy SEAL Kyle Lansdowne, on a mission to find his AWOL Team buddy, is staying at his buddy’s home while investigating the disappearance. When someone breaks in, he takes protective measures. He doesn’t expect to find that a beautiful young woman is responsible for his teammate’s abduction.

What starts out as a meeting by accident becomes a hot affair neither one is ready for. Kyle is conflicted about getting Christy involved in his mission, but his hand is forced when he learns the same San Diego gang responsible for his teammate’s abduction has kidnapped her.

Battling a cadre of dirty law enforcements hell-bent on getting military equipment, especially state-of-the-art firepower, Kyle is forced to admit that he would die to protect her.

********************

With the heat of summer upon us, Sharon Hamilton's Accidental SEAL cranks up the heat even more through its edge of your seat suspense and intensely sexual connection between the main characters of Kyle and Christy.  Not only do we get to meet such a strong primary couple, but the secondary characters are equally intriguing and as SEALs are super strong and charming.

Christy and Kyle meet in a very memorable way and from there their relationship evolves very quickly.  Christy's a strong and likable character who's capable of protecting herself.  Upon meeting Kyle her life is turned upside down and not only has she found the one man she wants to love, but her life is now in danger from those sworn to protect.  Christy's no shrinking violet and plays an active role in bringing the bad guys to justice which endears her to all the SEALs.  Kyle's extremely loyal to his friends and would die for them if need be, but is incapable of admitting his true feelings towards Christy.  As he fights to find his missing friend and fellow SEAL, he almost loses Christy and can't deny his feelings anymore which leads to a perfectly tied up and satisfying conclusion.

The mystery surrounding the bad guys gets a bit pushed to the side in relation to the sexual interludes, which are frequent and scorching.  The bad guys make for some bloody encounters and pulse pounding action sequences.  This gives Kyle's fellow SEALs a chance to shine and set themselves apart for future installments.

From beginning to end I found this to be an enjoyable story with intriguing characters and lots of sweaty sexual interludes.  This premise and the sense of family amongst the SEALs, has me excited to revisit this world and the characters that were enticingly introduced.  This is one series that will become an auto-buy for me and one I think others will enjoy too.

My rating for this is a B+

*I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Book Tour for Medusa A Love Story by Sasha Summers (Interview)

For fans of the movie Clash of the Titans, the image of Medusa will be forever etched in our minds.  Sasha Summers has taken that image and our impressions of her and completely spun them around.  In Medusa A Love Story, Medusa is a gorgeous an loyal woman betrayed by the Gods to end up the hideous creature we've all come to know.  Today I'll be giving you a glimpse of this intriguing book as well as an interview with Ms. Summers.  So let's get right to it.......

TSP:  Hello Sasha and thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions.  I look forward to your visit and reading/reviewing your intriguing new book.

SS:  It’s my sincere pleasure to be here. And I hope you enjoy the book.

TSP:  How did you get where you are today with your writing career and would you have done anything differently?

SS:  I have an incredibly supportive critique group and am part of a phenomenal RWA chapter. They help keep me writing. I cannot stress the importance of finding writer’s to connect, vent, and bond with – it will keep you sane.

Hmm, I’m not sure I’d do anything different. I’m still a new author and I have no complaints about my publishing journey so far.

TSP:  What is a typical writing day like for you and what is your dream writing space look like?

SS:  My typical writing day? After dropping off my minions - and hopefully turning on the dishwasher and washing machine – I plug in and get lost in the writing. Sometimes I don’t even make it out of my pj’s – I know, I’m super glamorous. Half the time I look up and it’s time to get the kids. The other half the time I realize I’ve spent way too much time ‘playing’ on FB, twitter, blogs, etc.

I don’t have a dream writing space – but now you’ve got me thinking…

TSP:  You seem to write in quite a few different genres, are there any other genres that you want to explore in the future?

SS:  Yes. I’m an all over the place kind of writer – fantasy, scifi, and contemporary. I’m the same with reading. Maybe it’s a Gemini thing? If it’s a good book, regardless of genre, I want to read/write it. I’m working on a contemporary young adult, a Russian gothic/folktale series, and a zombie young adult… All over the place.

TSP:  What can you tell us about Medusa: A Love Story, beyond the blurb, and where do you see the series heading?  What drew you to this intriguing mythological theme in the first place?

SS:  I am pathetically addicted to tragic love stories. And, let’s face it mythology has so many wonderful romantic and tragic for me to revisit! The series will cover many of these stories – some known and unknown myths. For the Love of Hades, Book 2, will release in January. It’s my take on what really happened between Hades and Persephone – and it’s AWESOME. After that, I have Apollo, Ares, Poseidon… etc etc. I’m not sure where it will ‘end’, but I’m sure enjoying the ride.

TSP:  When writing, who is your inspirational eye candy?

SS:  I have a wonderful Greek God hierarchy chart that I’ve plastered with my Hollywood cast of characters. I’m kind of a cinema addict, so my characters tend to take on the faces of those actors and actresses I’m partial to. Eye candy for Medusa: Ariston as Alex Pettyfer and Poseidon as Gerard Butler.

TSP:  How has the ongoing digital revolution affected your career and how you market yourself?

SS:  I think the marketing is the hardest part of being an author today. What makes ‘you’ and ‘your book’ stand out amongst the thousands of others out there. How do you market without being obnoxious? How do reach people without being a stalker… It’s hard. And at the same time, it’s not. I’ve already made some wonderful international connections with readers that I’m not sure would have come about without things like Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter.

TSP:  When not writing, what is your ideal way to relax?  And with summer upon us, are there any vacation spots you long to visit?

SS:  I’m in Texas – so vacation spots normally include water. We’ll hit the coast at some point. And I’m making the trip to Romance Writer’s of America’s national conference in Anaheim as well. I love this conference, meeting up with writer pals, making new ones… and this year I’ll participate in their Literacy Signing fundraiser for the first time. I’m terrified. I don’t want to be one of those authors sitting there – all her books stacked prettily without a single person to buy them. Nightmare scenario!!!

TSP:  My site is all about favorite things.  What are your favorite things, the things you can't do without?

SS:  My family – there’s a lot of us and we make a lot of noise – but they are most definitely my favorite things! Other than that? Coffee, laptop, and a good book – or five.

TSP:  Thanks again for answering my in-depth (lol) questions and Happy Writing!

SS:  I like your questions! And thank you for inviting me to answer them!

MEDUSA A LOVE STORY by Sasha Summers

It's said love can change a person. Medusa wasn't always a monster...

Medusa is ruled by duty, to her Titan father and the Goddess Athena. She's no room for the tenderness her warrior guard, Ariston, stirs. When Olympus frees her from service, her heart leads her into the arms of the guard she loves... and curses her as the creature with serpent locks.

Ariston goes to war with a full heart... and dreadful foreboding. He learns too late of the danger Medusa faces, alone, and a Persian blade sends him into the Underworld. But death, curses, nor the wrath of the Gods will keep him from returning to her.

Poseidon will use Greece's war to get what he wants: Medusa. He does not care that she belongs to another. He does not care that she will be damned. He is a God, an Olympian, and she will be his.

EXCERPT:

“You asked for an audience, you have it. Now tell me, where do you belong?” Hades’ voice was deep, emotionless.
   
Ariston swallowed. “Athens.” He met Hades’ gaze, but the God revealed nothing to him.

“Why? You died with honor and glory. Is that not what every soldier wants?” 
    
“My wife…” His voice wavered.

Hades brow lifted slightly. “Lives. You do not.”

“She is in danger.”

“Earthly danger. She is no longer your concern, Ariston.”

“The danger she faces is not earthly, but far from it…” Ariston’s voice was hoarse, his desperation mounting. He took a wavering breath before he began again. “She is everything to me. I am proud of my death, but it means nothing if she is in peril. I must know.” Ariston kneeled. “I beg you. I beg you to return me to Athens.”

Ariston waited, willing himself to be strong.

“Who is this wife?” Hades asked.

“Medusa of Athens.” He paused. “Now of Rhodes.”

Hades was silent, his dark blue eyes regarding him steadily.

“When I die—” Ariston began.
   
“You are dead,” Hades assured him.

“When I return…die again, I would serve as guardian to Tartarus. I am a skilled warrior, a skill I might offer you.” He spoke with confidence.

“You vex me,” Hades muttered, the slightest crease appearing between his eyes. “You offer this to me for a woman?”
   
Ariston nodded. “She is worthy.”

Hades was silent again, his eyes shifting to the blue-white flames in the massive
fireplace.   

“My words do not…adequately express the love I have for this woman. But I cannot leave her. She is at risk. I must return.” The words came without thought. How could he justify such emotion to a God who reviled affection or companionship? “As Olympus has my arm and sword, she has my heart – a mortal, and perhaps weak, heart.”

The room was silent for too long. He would have to fight his way out…

“It is a weakness not reserved for mortals alone, Ariston of Rhodes.” Hades’ words were so soft Ariston feared they’d not been spoken. But Hades continued, strong and clear. “I will return you to your ship so that you may lead your men to victory. Too many have fallen from this war and I would see it end. When that is done, you may go to your wife.” He paused then added, “When you return to my realm, I will have your fealty.”

The God of the Underworld, Lord of Death, gave him mercy? Mayhap there was one God he might serve with honor. 

Ariston vowed, “You have it.”

AUTHOR BIO:

Sasha Summers is part gypsy. Her passions have always been storytelling, history, and travel. It's no surprise that her books visit times past, set in places rich with legends and myth. Her first play, 'Greek Gods and Goddesses' (original title, right?), was written for her Girl Scout troupe.

She's been writing ever since. She loves getting lost in the worlds and characters she creates; even if she frequently forgets to run the dishwasher or wash socks when she's doing so.

Luckily, her four brilliant children and hero-inspiring hubby are super understanding and supportive.

Sasha is an active member of RWA and several Texas Chapters. A self-proclaimed movie-addict, she is full of all sorts of useless movie tidbits and trivia.

Facebook Author Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sasha-Summers/213036208773108

Goodreads:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5759214.Sasha_Summers

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sashasummers/

Twitter: @sashawrites

Webpage: http://www.sashasummers.com

Review for Medusa A Love Story by Sasha Summers

It's said love can change a person. Medusa wasn't always a monster...

Medusa is ruled by duty, to her Titan father and the Goddess Athena. She's no room for the tenderness her warrior guard, Ariston, stirs. When Olympus frees her from service, her heart leads her into the arms of the guard she loves... and curses her as the creature with serpent locks.

Ariston goes to war with a full heart... and dreadful foreboding. He learns too late of the danger Medusa faces, alone, and a Persian blade sends him into the Underworld. But death, curses, nor the wrath of the Gods will keep him from returning to her.

Poseidon will use Greece's war to get what he wants: Medusa. He does not care that she belongs to another. He does not care that she will be damned. He is a God, an Olympian, and she will be his.

********************

Courtesy of the movie Clash of the Titans, I always thought I knew all there was to know about Medusa.  Sasha Summers completely changed my original impressions with this intriguing story that is the start to a very promising new series putting a clever spin on classic mythological stories.  These stories take characters that appear to be heartless and above us mere mortals and humanizes them through stories full of love and tears.

Medusa starts out as a beautiful and loyal priestess to Athena, untouched by any man.  She never regretted not knowing a man's touch until she gets a new guard, Ariston who's just as loyal a warrior with his talents being war.  She longs for his touch and once she's set free by Athena, they act on their love.  Medusa was a carefree young girl never expecting anything bad to happen.  She was naive and her views were definitely through rose colored glasses.  When her and Ariston finally consummate their wedding vows it's a wondrous and enlightening event that is sweetly sexy.  Ariston is a noble man who never acted on his feelings until vows were spoken.  He's strong in battle and would do anything to keep Medusa safe.  He'd give his very life to be with her and bask in her love.  Their loyalty makes them a perfect couple and the strength of their love is like no other.  That's why it's particularly gutwrenching when the Gods step in and ruin their very lives by treating them like pieces on a chessboard. 

Once the Gods take notice of their marriage, and because of battles between their own egos, they do everything they can to pull these steadfast lovers apart.  Their actions are truly callous and it actually gives them the title of villains in my opinion.  Thankfully some of the Gods value mortals and do what they can to right the wrongs done and lead us to a very satisfying conclusion.

With its unique spin on classic myths this story immediately captures your attention and through its seamless and highly emotional writing draws you in even further.  It's a clever and thought provoking premise that completely enthralled me and has me excited for future books.  Readers looking for something unique and unexpected should definitely give this book a try.

My rating for this is an A!

*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Winner for Hounded by Sadie Hart

Thanks to everyone who signed up to win a digital copy of this book.  It's a super sexy and exciting read and I'm proud to announce that the winner is....................

.................Kassandra!!!!!!!

Congratulations!!!!!!  I'll be sending you an email in a bit to confirm your win, so be on the lookout for it.

Winner of Love the Sinner by Avril Ashton

Hello everybody, I just realized I never chose a winner for Avril's giveaway.  I'm such a doof and going to rectify the situation right now.  The winner of a digital copy of this book is.....

..........Bookwyrm369!!!!!!!!!

Congratulations and sorry for the delay in picking a winner!!!!!  I'll be sending an email to confirm your win, so be on the lookout for it.

Teaser Tuesdays #72

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers.

MEDUSA: A LOVE STORY BY SASHA SUMMERS

....from 1633 of 3649

-Fear rose, shooting up his spine.  It grew, stealing his breath and churning his stomach.  He was loath to release her, to let her leave the safety of his arms.  He held her close, and breathed her in.  

He'd never known such fear.  But then, he'd never had something he was fearful of losing.

Book Tour for Curse of the Wolf by Danica Winters (Guest Post)

With Curse of the Wolf, Danica Winters has created an exciting paranormal story full of intriguing characters that would make a great series if she so chooses.  When two people hurt by the death of their lovers meet amidst danger and lies will they ever admit their love for each other?  Find out in this action packed story full of colorful secondary characters and scary villains by reading on.  To start off, Danica Winters is here talking about writing and inspiration......

A Humble Writer’s Words of Wisdom

Earlier this week I received a letter from a nice young woman who had just graduated from high school.  She wrote about her wishes, her dreams of the future, and asked for advice on how to attain her goals.  I instantly fell for the young woman’s unbridled hope and fervor to become a writer ‘someday.’ 

We’ve exchanged a few emails since, where I’ve tried to explain a little bit about what she should expect in college, and the path that most writers follow.  I know that it is unlikely that she will divert from her desire to go after a degree in a shrinking field, but like other young men and women, I think the importance does not necessarily lie in the field that they pursue their degree so much as the skills that they will attain while in college.  

When I was writing to her, I had to think back to my high school and early college years.  What would have benefited me if I was back in that time and place in life—the days when I had been thirsty for experiences?  When I had been unguarded to the prospect of new/different ideas?  When I had been desperate to make a life for myself? 

After some thinking, my answer was simple and I quote from the letter in which I wrote her.  “The best advice I can give you… is this: Keep your chin up, grow a thick skin, follow your heart, and most importantly don't give up on your dreams (there will certainly be days that you will want to quit).”

My advice does not apply to only prospective authors.  Everyone at some time or another will find themselves in a place in their life where, in order to follow their heart, they will have to lift their chin and carry on, turn a blind ‘ear’ to the things others are saying, and have blind faith to continue when the road they have chosen proves to be filled with ruts. 

If I talk to this young woman again, I would like to add one final thought, an additional snippet of advice:  No matter what your dream, be strong and work hard—if you do, your dreams will eventually come true.

I sincerely hope this advice may help anyone who is searching for direction and is in need of help in finding a path.

Curse of the Wolf by Danica Winters

For cursed, shape-shifting Veela, Gloriana, following her heart and giving her body to sexy, tortured werewolf Alexander means one thing-he will die and it will again be her fault.

Once only a man, Alexander finds himself scarred by the memories of his former life and the deceptions and lies that surround him. When a glimmer of light breaks the madness, he must let go of his misguided preconceptions and the hatred that consumes him.

On a mission for blood, they find unity in their desire for revenge, but are driven apart by their pasts. Traveling the darkest paths and fighting the very people they think they can trust, they draw closer to one another's hearts and further into danger.

Will the curse prove to be unstoppable... or is there hope in forbidden love?

EXCERPT:

CHAPTER ONE

In her human-like Veela form, Gloriana Canis was at a distinct disadvantage. Her feet pounded against the ground as she ran, she crashed through the underbrush, and tripped upon the branches that reached up to snatch her legs. With a muffled growl, she paused as she forced her body to shift into her more powerful wolfen shape.

Dashing after the intruders, she silently passed beneath the low lying branches and bounded over the roots. Her paws silently ab­sorbed the sounds as the ground blurred beneath her. She saw none of the pack that had invaded her territory, so she lifted her snout and sniffed.

The scent of the gray Werewolf was a mix of triumph, malice, and anger, but there were no traces of fear.

He’s a fool. The thieving Were should feel fear above anything else—because I soon will be upon him.

When she found the beast, she would tear at his soft flesh…the least vital parts first. Before she finished, he would undoubtedly cry for mercy, but no matter how hard he cried, or how desperately he pleaded, he would find none. The man had tried to steal Bal­dur’s Vitam Aeternam, the ring of eternal life, from her. The ring was the final memento of Baldur’s existence, of their fight for love against all odds and the curse that had taken his life. The Were who attempted to take it from her would have no easy death.

Deeper into the woods, the scent of the gray alpha Were less­ened and was replaced by the musky scent of the brown beta she had seen circling the alpha.

Her strides grew more rapid. She was close.

Weaving around a boulder, her body collapsed as the ground gave way. Her paws clawed at the soft earth, desperate to stop the fall, but the dirt crumbled beneath her touch. She yelped in fear as she clawed, but it was too late. Her body flipped into the earth’s open maw.

The stakes ripped into her soft flesh. Hot, searing pain invaded her body.

Howling, she tried to leap, struggle—anything to free her body—but the motions only drove the stakes deeper, worsening her agony.

A fire burned deep in her flank and she caught the scent of blood on the stakes that now were wedged in her flesh. Hydra blood.

The venom pumped through her veins, she could taste the acrid poison in her mouth. Slowly her vision began to fade. She was forced to find refuge from the pain inside of her mind.

My dearest Goddess, Epione, do not let the curse of the loving Veela take me. I promise that if you let me live, I will find Baldur’s killer and make him pay. Please, please do not deliver my soul to the underworld. I must complete my task.

She could feel the sun rising in the distance. Would this morn­ing be her last?

A light illuminated the grave-like pit.

Expecting a torch-bearing lampade to lead her to the under­world, she was surprised when a tall man appeared with a flash­light in his hand. He stood at the edge of the pit, his other hand on his hip and a scowl on his face.

She growled, but as the rumble escaped her, it was replaced with a yelp.

The thief had returned to finish her.

He reached down to her and said something, but it sounded as if he was talking through water. When he spoke again, she heard him say, “Shifter, I’m Alex…” but the rest of his words were lost in the muffling pain circulating through her body.

She tried to pull away from his touch, but her paws felt like lead weights and she struggled to move.

The pain radiated from the stakes in her flesh. Unable to fight the poison any longer, her eyes closed. Her mind went black.

TO BUY:   AMAZON    B&N    RAVENOUS ROMANCE    BOOKSTRAND

AUTHOR BIO:

Danica Winters is an Amazon best-selling romance author based in Montana. She is known for writing award-winning books that grip readers with their ability to drive emotion through suspense and often a touch of magic. She is a member of Romance Writers of America, Montana Romance Writers, and Greater Seattle Romance Writers. She is a contributor to magazines, websites, and news organizations. She enjoys spending time with friends and family, the outdoors, and the bliss brought by the printed word.

Website: www.DanicaWinters.net
Blog: www.DanicaWinters.net/blog
Facebook:  www.Facebook.com/DanicaWinters
Twitter: www.Twitter.com/DanicaWinters
Pinterest: www.Pinterest.com/MsDanicaWinters
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5764273.Danica_Winters
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Danica-Winters/e/B006GDN8GI/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1   

Review for Curse of the Wolf by Danica Winters

For cursed, shape-shifting Veela Gloriana, following her heart and giving her body to sexy, tortured werewolf Alexander means one thing-he will die and it will again be her fault.

Once only a man, Alexander finds himself scarred by the memories of his former life and the deceptions and lies that surround him. When a glimmer of light breaks the madness, he must let go of his misguided preconceptions and the hatred that consumes him.

On a mission for blood, they find unity in their desire for revenge, but are driven apart by their pasts. Traveling the darkest paths and fighting the very people they think they can trust, they draw closer to one another's hearts and further into danger.

Will the curse prove to be unstoppable... or is there hope in forbidden love?

********************

The paranormal world just got a bit bigger with Danica Winters' Curse of the Wolf and its intriguing heroes and villains.  With its likable lead characters radiating oodles of sexual tension and exciting action sequences that takes us from one exotic locale to the next, this story easily draws the reader in and keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very last page is turned.

Gloriana has the reputation of being a sexual siren, but after falling in love and losing that love to murder has her on the path of revenge.  With the curse she carries it also has her hesitant to give her heart away again knowing that her love brings a death sentence.  Gloriana is a kickass heroine full of bravado yet retaining the sexiness of her nymph nature.  Her unique abilities and her one weakness are intriguing and make for a dramatic overall mythology.  Her fight scenes are gritty and bloody but also smile inducing as she's wearing some lovely outfits and heels while doing so.

Alex was forced into becoming a werewolf and considers himself a monster.  The crimes he's committed in the past were forced upon him and he's now desperate to make amends and keep Gloriana safe no matter what he has to do.  Alex is a hardened man when we first see him, having lost the woman he loved to murder, and also seeks revenge.  He's oh so sexy and very protective of Gloriana, but there's still secrets he keeps from her that rear their ugly head towards the end of the story.  Together they're a formidable team and their sexual interludes are sexy and sweaty.

The rest of the "good guys" are an intriguing blend of witches, elves, and a few other lost souls picked up along the way.  Each character is memorable with backgrounds I'd love to learn more about and their unification makes for one heckuva family, which is what they felt like as they willingly sacrificed themselves for the others.  The villains were equally unique and their creepy and revolting traits will remain embedded in your memory long after the final page is turned.  They were worthy adversaries and added to the edge of your seat action.

From start to finish this book drew me in and kept me guessing as to who were truly the heroes and who were truly the villains as a few characters changed sides as circumstances changed.  With a main couple worth rooting for and a truly vile villain comes a story with all the ingredients for an enjoyable summertime read and has definitely given me an author to keep an eye on.

My rating for this is a B+

*I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Winner of Dead or Alive by LJ Gardner

I want to thank everyone who signed up to win an eBook copy of this book....it's a super sexy sci-fi adventure!  The random.org magician did its magic and the winner is........

...........tinkerbell the bipolar faerie!!!!!!!!!!

Congratulations!!!!!!!!  I'll be sending you a winner's confirmation email in a bit so be on the lookout for it.

Review for Dark Shadows (2012 movie)

As a big fan of the original Dark Shadows with all its cheesy goodness and homemade feel, it was with much excitement and a bit of trepidation that I finally ventured out to see this reboot on the big screen.  I'm happy to say it wasn't a complete disaster, but it was a bit disappointing.

Let me start out by saying that this movie was made by people who enjoyed the original, there was a sense of fun and energy revolving around the scenes with the two main protagonists acting with gleeful abandon.  Johnny Depp as the new Barnabas Collins did an admirable job of bringing the emotions of lost love and disillusionment with the changes of time to this complicated character and his presence overshadowed every other actor in the film with the exception of Barnabas' nemesis, Angelique Bouchard (played with wildly sexy abandon by Eva Green).  The chemistry was crackling between these two every time they shared a scene.  It's too bad they weren't together more often.

As to the rest of the cast, they were rather bland (with the minor exception of Helena Bonham Carter playing Dr. Julia Hoffman, who can always be counted on to go over the top and leave a lasting impression).  The excitement that Depp and Green brought to the screen was definitely lacking from most of the remaining cast which caused things to drag whenever Depp wasn't onscreen.  The actress playing Barnabas' long lost love Victoria (Bella Heathcote) was my biggest disappointment in the cast considering her importance to Barnabas.  There was absolutely no chemistry between Heathcote and Depp, so their love story fizzled and caused the emotional impact of the film's ending to be diminished.  The cameos from some of the original cast members was a wonderfully sentimental sight to see, particularly knowing that Jonathan Frid the original Barnabas died shortly after filming his scenes.  Having Alice Cooper show up as a musical guest was also wonderfully inspired and elicited one of many funny jokes. 

The gothic atmosphere of the story really drew me in, and while I enjoyed the humorous moments they disrupted the overall flow and feel of the original.  This movie needed to either go all in on the gothic aspect or go totally campy/humorous, this back and forth felt a bit schizophrenic and diminished my overall enjoyment.  The ending of the movie was where I had the biggest issues though.  It was drawn out way to long and one or two hidden traits about the Collins children came way out of left field to affect the outcome of the story in an unbelievable way.

Overall this movie was entertaining, even with the quibbles I had with it.  I had hoped for better, but am grateful it wasn't worse.  As a sentimental ode to the original Dark Shadows and Jonathan Frid's Barnabas Collins it succeeds and should bring a smile to all those who first stepped into the original Dark Shadows world.

My rating for this is a B!

Book Tour for Believe In Me by Rebecca Royce (Promo Post & GIVEAWAY)

Decadent Publishing's 1 Night Stand series can always be counted on to be sexy and entertaining.  They're like a tasty treat in a small package and Believe In Me by Rebecca Royce lives up to that description.  I'll be giving you a glimpse of this tasty paranormal morsel today as well as the chance to win another book by Ms. Royce, so keep reading to find out more about this book as well as what you can win.

Believe In Me by Rebecca Royce

Jack Johnson, Werewolf enforcer of the Delta pack, has not found his mate. He craves a human female who can settle his soul. But is there a non-shifter in the world who could accept that Werewolves even exist let alone love one? He signs up for a 1-Night Stand hoping to find the one.

Gloria has been through hell. On the run with her young daughter, seeking an escape from her deranged ex-husband, she has no expectations of love. Just one night to do something for herself, one night to forget her troubles. She has no time for fantasy—until Jack walks into her life.

EXCERPT:

He studied her silently with huge brown eyes then finally he took a deep breath. A brief, satisfied smile crossed his lips. “I knew it.”

She let out the breath she’d been holding, feeling too much like the schoolgirl she had been, with no confidence and not at all like the woman she’d sworn to her daughter she’d find a way to become. “You knew what?”

He walked toward her, extending his hand. She placed hers in his strong grip, expecting a shake. Instead, he lifted their joined fingers to his mouth and placed a small, gentle kiss on top of it. “I knew tonight would be really special.” He smiled again and her knees wobbled. Only her nerves kept her upright. “I’m Jack Johnson.”

“Like the singer.” Oh damn. Why did I have to say that? He probably hears that all the time and now he thinks I’m a walking cliché.

He raised a dark eyebrow. “I’m sorry. I’m not familiar with such a person. I’ll do an Internet search.”

He pulled his phone out of his pocket and she realized he intended to search for the folk singer she’d mentioned. The last thing she’d meant to do was take his attention from her and onto a singer whose music she enjoyed but not enough to take time out of her one night away from her life to discuss.

She placed her hand over his phone. “I’m sorry I mentioned it. You don’t have to take the time to learn about him right now. He makes good music, but it’s not important to me that you know him or anything.”

He smiled, his eyes alight with amusement. “Okay. I don’t really follow current trends. I guess you could say that where I live gives me the ability to miss out on a lot of the current stuff out there.”

That sounded interesting. She’d like to find somewhere like that, assuming it wasn’t a cult. A remote location might actually keep Jacob from finding Katie and her. She bit her bottom lip. Searching for such a spot had led her to Alaska in the first place. Nowhere would ever be secure enough.

“No TV or internet near where you live?”

He joined their fingers. “Of course there is some. I guess you could just say that I’m a bit of an outdoorsman and I prefer spending time in the woods than on the computer.”

“That’s really nice.”

BUY FROM DECADENT PUBLISHING here.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

As a teenager, Rebecca Royce would hide in her room to read her favorite romance novels when she was supposed to be doing her homework. She hopes, these days, that her parents think it was well worth it.

Rebecca is the mother of three adorable boys and is fortunate to be married to her best friend. They live in northern New Jersey and try not to freeze too badly during the winter months.

She's in love with science fiction, fantasy, and the paranormal and tries to use all of these elements in her writing. She's been told she's a little bloodthirsty so she hopes that when you read her work you'll enjoy the action packed ride that always ends in romance. Rebecca loves to write series because she loves to see characters develop over time and it always makes her happy to see her favorite characters make guest appearances in other books.

In Rebecca Royce's world anything is possible, anything can happen, and you should suspect that it will.

Visit Rebecca at http://www.rebeccaroyce.com/.

**********GIVEAWAY**********

Prize is an eBook copy of I'll be Mated for Christmas by Rebecca Royce.

-Giveaway is OPEN TO EVERYONE!
-To be entered, just leave a comment, along with your email addy.
-Winner will be chosen using random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to my winner's confirmation email or a new winner will be chosen.
-Giveaway ends at 11:59 PM CST on 6/30.

*To learn more about this book and for more chances to win, you can visit the other blogs hosting this tour which are listed here.

Feature & Follow Friday........

Hello all, it's that day of the week where we learn new things about each other and discover new blogs along the way.  We also help each other by becoming followers of one another.  Normally that following would be through GFC (which would be great if you'd still take a few seconds to do), but with that being eliminated for certain blogs (a big boo-hiss to that) I now ask that you follow through a RSS Feed (or Twitter, FB, or email) which you can find to the right.  I want to thank all of you ahead of time who choose to become a follower and make sure to let me know in the comments if you're new so I doubly make sure to follow you back.  And now for this weeks get to know me question....

Q: If you could "unread" a book, which one would it be? Is it because you want to start over and experience it again for the first time? Or because it was THAT bad?

 

A:  I'll have to go with a book I HATED and wish I never had come near......Twilight by Stephanie Meyer.  I HATED Bella for her weak-willed nature and her obsession with the irritating and non-heroic Edward.  Too many sparklies for me!

Book Review for Portside by Elyan Smith

Life on the dole in a dying town is defined by drinking when you can, smoking to pass the time, and, if you’re gay, going down to the barracks at the old port to get some. Iwan’s got the cigarettes and the booze down pat, but he lacks experience, so he sticks to online porn and watching the lads portside.

Everyone else seems to have learned how to get what they want, yet Iwan can't get past everything that could go wrong. He knows who he is, regardless of labels. But no matter how often his best friend tells him to just go for it, he doesn’t trust others to see past his mismatched body.

Paying for what he’s afraid to get for free may seem absurd, but it’s better than just watching, and it’s better than porn. It may not change the world he lives in, but with luck, it will change him.

******************** 

In some ways this is a very straight forward story while in others ways it's an intense yet slightly confusing look at a young man's journey to accepting his sexuality.  Along the way you find an atmospheric story with descriptive scenery and realistic language that easily immerses you and adds an intriguing layer to this young man's journey.

With the exception of Iwan, the small cast of characters are hard to feel connected to since they're not fully developed and we see them in a very peripheral way.  The glimpses of them are intriguing though and I desperately wanted to know more about them as they had a profound affect on Iwan's life.  As to Iwan, he seems so lost.  In a town with no opportunities and a dislike of homosexuals, he seemed to just be going through the motions with no hope for anything better since there's so much beyond his control.  Admitting his sexuality and acting on it IS something he can control and I admired him for finally acting on his long suppressed feelings.  His wonder with the big city of London and his eye opening, life changing moments there also endeared him to me as I applauded his bold step to proclaim the truth about himself.

The strongly and beautifully presented atmospheric visuals of life in a depressed small town will be forever stamped in my mind.  The attitudes and accents were realistic and added to my reading enjoyment as it was easy to lose myself in this world Elyan Smith created.  Amidst the bleakness of this town came the open-ended conclusion giving a hint of hopefulness that made for a satisfying ending.  With just a few small quibbles I still found this to be a thought provoking, highly emotional story that has me excited to see how this author's career evolves considering the great promise shown in this debut work.

My rating for this is a B-/C+

*I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion. 

*You can purchase this book from the publisher HERE.

Winner of Let's Keep on Truckin' by Laci Paige

My giveaway for an eBook copy of Let's Keep on Truckin' by Laci Paige has come to an end and I'm pleased to announce that the winner of this steamy read is.....

.........Julianne!!!!!!!

Congratulations!!!!!  I'll be sending you a winner's confirmation email soon so be on the lookout for it.

Winner from The Gift by VS Morgan Giveaway

My giveaway in honor of The Gift by VS Morgan came to an end and the lucky winner gets to choose from three different prizes.  I thank VS Morgan for her generosity and am pleased to announce that the winner is..................

.........Megan@Riverina Romantics!!!!!!!!

Congratulations!!!!!  I'll be sending you a winner's confirmation email soon to find out which of the prizes you want, so be on the lookout for it.