Queen City Indie Con

Queen City Indie Con

OCTOBER 24th & 25th 2014

••• GET YOUR TICKETS •••

I highly suggest the $70 ticket 

(It's gets you everything)

http://www.queencityindiecon.com

Itinerary

2014 Queen City Indie Con *Tentative* Itinerary

Thursday Oct. 23rd
Pre-Party that Evening Still in the Planning Process but there might be some Karaoke Involved, Maybe…

Friday Oct. 24th
7:00-8:00am Registration
8:00-8:30am Welcome & Giveaways
8:30-9:15am Keynote Speaker Abbi Glines
9:15-9:30am Break
9:30-10:30am Panel Discussion Topic #1 (Topics will be filled in once acquired)
10:30-11:30am Panel Discussion Topic #2
11:30-1:00pm Lunch (Truck will be outside & you will get a Ticket Voucher)
1:00-2:00pm Panel Discussion Topic #3
2:00-3:00pm Panel Discussion Topic #4
3:00-3:30pm Cupcake Break (Bathroom Break)
3:30-4:30pm Panel Discussion Topic #5
4:30-5:00pm End of the day Giveaway

Saturday Oct. 25th
8:00-8:30am Doors Open
8:30-9:00am Welcome & Giveaways
9:00-9:45am Keynote Speaker Samantha Young
9:45-10:00am Break
10:00-11:00am Panel Discussion Topic #6
11:00-11:45am Panel Discussion Topic #7
11:45-12:15pm Thank You & Giveaways
12:15-1:30pm Lunch (Truck will be outside & you will get a Ticket Voucher)
1:30-5:30pm Book Signing
5:30-7:20pm BREAK (Rest, Relax & Re-Energize)
7:30-9:00pm Awards Ceremony Ball (Formal Attire)

Sunday Oct. 26th
Possible Author Brunch
Say Goodbyes
Checkout

Celebrating Susan Griscom's Birthday!

I want to celebrate Susan's birthday with my review and an excerpt from her new book being released March 1, 2014. I love this book and I know you will truly enjoy it. Happy Birthday Susan, have a beautiful day!!

The Fawn

Susan Griscom

A New Adult Novel Sexual content and mature subject matter, including domestic violence and abuse.

This will be a two book series, but both books in The Beaumont Brothers can be read as a standalone.

After a not-so-wonderful young adulthood—shuffled from one foster home to another—Lena Benton had hoped marriage would be her ticket to happiness. Wedded a year after high school graduation, Lena was certain she’d found her knight. But when Troy Harington’s true colors surface shortly after their glorious day of elopement, things aren’t quite as rosy as Lena had envisioned. When an unforeseen event turns ugly, all she can do is ... run!

But does she run far enough?

Jackson Beaumont prides himself on being a nature-loving, guitar-strumming carefree sort of guy, known for his eagerness to help injured animals find their way back into the wild. When Lena Benton walks into his bar, he’s once again swept off his feet with concern and desire to help the wounded. Will he risk having his heart torn apart again when the memory of the fawn he rescued as a child resurfaces?

My Review:

I was lucky enough to get to beta read this book. It is my favorite book by Susan Griscom so far and that is saying a lot. I love her work and The Fawn surpassed my expectations.

Lena is a woman who has found herself in a very abusive marriage. An intense scene in the first chapter painted a very clear portrait of a relationship gone dangerous. Susan's descriptions brought the story to life for me. I felt as if I was in the house with Lena and my heart raced with each second she had to endure her husband Troy's wrath. I applauded when she finally gained the courage to run. From that point on I was emotionally vested in Lena's journey.

Jackson is a man who feels the need to help the helpless. He loves nature and has helped many injured animals recover, releasing them back into the wild. He feels the same desire when a battered Lena walks through the doors of his pub. He can't seem to control his need to protect and help this injured woman. I fell for Jackson immediately. His gentle and loving nature, his guitar playing and all around sexy nature pulled me in.

The Fawn is a story filled with hope. After living through dark times, Lena begins to experience the beauty life and love has to offer. I couldn't put this book down. Susan opened my heart and mind in this beautifully descripted story. I am eagerly awaiting the second book in this series! A truly beautiful story that I think everyone should read.

Excerpt:

“Will you tell me the words?”
“The words?”
“The lyrics. To the song you’re writing.”
“Ah …” Was I ready to reveal them? I shuffled my body so that she’d be more comfortable. “My guitar is all the way downstairs.”
She sighed a heavily. “Can’t you just say the words?”
“I guess,” I said, and picked up her hand, rubbing my thumb over her fingers as I spoke.

Fleeing demons from the past
Only to find she can’t escape
Her wounds are deep and the scars are masked
By her pain as she moves too late

Fleeing demons from the past
Without the pain
Healing wings for hope at last
When every turn seems the same

All her fears can fall away
Right now, here with me

I felt the wetness of her tears on my shirt.
“Come on, baby, you’re exhausted.” I helped her stretch out onto the bed. I knew she had to be tired after the busy day, and it being her first day out. I pulled the cover over her and slid in next to her, holding on to her. At first, I thought she might object, but when she scooted her body up against mine, fitting hers into every curve of mine like we were molded together, I realized that I shouldn’t have worried. She didn’t need to comment on the lyrics, I wasn’t looking for anything, I only hoped she understood them. When she began to sob, my heart broke, and I knew she had. She cried for a while and I held her close. We stayed like that for the rest of the night, her sleeping in my arms.

Add it to your TBR list on Goodreads

Releases on March 1, 2014

Envelope: Red Blog Tour

Title:  Envelope Red

Author:  K. Baskett

Genre:  Suspense

​​Book Synopsis

Unemployed with no prospects, Dorian Wells is a young man trying desperately to stay afloat and be a good father to his toddler son. While already struggling to pay the bills and earn proper visitation with his child, Dorian’s tumultuous life is thrown into further upheaval when his mother is suddenly hospitalized.

On the verge of losing everything, it seems Dorian finally has a stroke of luck when he inadvertently learns of a potential opportunity with Jakkaru, a decadent, cut-throat organization that pays handsomely by the body count. Dorian’s lifelong friend, Rafe Ibadiah, is his ticket into Jakkaru and soon Dorian is training to be a professional hitman. But learning how to properly kill for a living is not as easy as it seems, and he quickly discovers the short arms of theory are a far reach from reality as the harrowing journey makes him question everything he believes.

The final test before full acceptance into Jakkaru is a contract Dorian must complete alone. Delivered to him via a small red envelope, the name inside propels the stakes of this dangerous game higher than ever before. Dorian will sacrifice anything for his son, but it’s not until he is ordered to do the unthinkable that he grasps the horrific depth of his commitment.

Award-winning author, K. Baskett, expertly weaves a chilling tale of suspense in Envelope: Red that culminates in a shocking look at the prickly nuances of loyalty. Gritty and authentic, Dorian’s story is ultimately a poignant examination of the human condition - what lies within the heart of us all.

About the author:

Jack of all trades, master of none - save for the art of procrastination - K. Baskett lives by the motto, "Never do today what can be put off until tomorrow." K. firmly believes that you aren't really interested in the author's hometown, spouse, children or pets, and has therefore decided to spare you the details. No Greater Illusion is the author's award-winning debut novel. Envelope: Red, the second offering, is a gritty suspense-thriller releasing November 2013.

Learn more about her at: kbaskett.com

Excerpt:

The butler goes to the corner of the room where a small stand holds a glass carafe of water and crystal goblets. He pours some and hands the glass to me, then exits the room, clicking the door quietly closed behind him.

I take a shaky sip, and my parched lips scream with relief. The cool water helps to alleviate my perspiration as well, which has already thoroughly embarrassed me.

“Welcome, Dorian,” says the man seated behind the desk. He is large and stocky, with a bald head and bad skin. He observes me through black, beady eyes that don't seem to blink. “I am Mr Black, and this is my colleague, Mr Red.” He indicates the man flanking his ornate leather chair. Mr Red nods at me slightly. He is reedy with delicate wireframe glasses perched on his beaky nose.

“H-hello,” I stutter, biting down nervous laughter at the absurdity of their names. My hands tremble so badly I am very nearly spilling my glass of water. I set it down gingerly on the small table beside my chair.

“We understand you are here because you're interested in becoming a member of our prestigious organization,” Mr Black begins.

“Yes, sir.”

“I see,” Mr Black says thoughtfully. “Well, as I'm sure you might imagine, we have to know a few things about anyone seeking to join our ranks. Therefore, we have taken the liberty to peek into your background.”

My saliva dries up, making my tongue swell like a blowfish and stick to the roof of my mouth.

Mr Red lifts an iPad from the desk and begins to read from it. “Dorian Wells, age twenty-five. No siblings. Both parents deceased; most recently the mother, Verona Marshall, from an advanced case of septicemia. One son, Josiah Wells, just turned two. Josiah's mother, Milan Carter, age twenty-three. No significant work history, just a few minimum wage jobs here and there. Once matriculated at the local community college but no degree. Currently unemployed. Recently granted a full visitation schedule for son, Josiah, by the family court. Girlfriend, Sekoya Williams, age twenty-nine; dating for about a year.” Mr Red stops reading from the iPad and looks directly at me. “Congratulations.”

My stomach is turning somersaults hearing all this detailed intimate information; it's so surreal. The main thing that sticks out in my mind is that he said, 'both parents deceased.' I don't even know who my father is, and they apparently have not only identified him, but also discovered he is dead. I'm not sure what to say after this recitation, but I can tell they are waiting for me to speak, so I murmur, “Yes, sir. That's me.”

Mr Black laces his pudgy fingers together on top of the desk. “You should know, Dorian: that was the summarized version.”

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Finding Home by Ann Vaughn

Title: Finding Home

Author: Ann Vaughn

Release Date: November 4, 2013

Genre: Contemporary Romantic Suspense

Synopsis

Former Army Ranger Colt Harris wasn't looking for love but one day during lunch, it found him. Her name was Sarah. As cliched as it was, time stood still and all he could see was her. Her laughter filled his senses and he was gone. He knew his life was about to change. Sarah Sauter was used to being alone. She lost her parents when she was eighteen and after a bad experience with love, had given up on ever finding it again. Since then, her life had been all about surviving. Little did she know that when she went to lunch with her co-workers, she would meet a man who would literally turn her world upside down. When Colt steps into Sarah's life, he finds that things with her aren't exactly as they appear to be. Deeply hidden secrets in her past begin to resurface, dropping Colt and Sarah in the middle if a nearly twenty-seven year old mystery. It will take all of Colt's strength, patience and resolve Finding Home for Sarah.

Buy Links

Amazon ~ Amazon UK ~ Amazon CA ~ Amazon AU

Book Trailer

http://animoto.com/play/r800Cy931b6LJfCfr19P0Q

Interview with Stuart Reardon

Hi, Stu. First let me say, I am beyond thrilled that you agreed to be the face of my character, Colt Harris for the cover of Finding Home. As I've told you, I saw a picture of you a couple of years ago and the whole character of Colt sprang to life from that, which is something that I've never done before. I've always had the character in my head and then searched for someone who fit. I am beyond thrilled that the very man who inspired the character has agreed to represent him on my cover. So, thank you, from the bottom of my heart for that. Thank you. I'm very flattered I was always the character in your book. And thank you for choosing me for the cover, I really hope the book does great for you :) x I know that you are first and foremost a rugby player and athlete. What made you decide to go into modeling? I sort of just fell into modeling. I think being in sports and in good shape fits really well with modeling, and fitness modeling in particular. Being in professional sports already had me in great shape, so stepping into fitness modeling was an easy transition. What's the most unusual pose you've been asked to do? No really unusual poses to date that stick out in my mind. Some of the action shots are tough as it takes time to capture the right shot, so may have to do the same thing over and over again. Another question I know everyone is always asking: is there any particular meaning behind your awesome tattoo? Do the symbols represent something, or was it just a design you said, Hey, that looks cool, I want that? I got my tattoo when I was recovering from a really tough Achilles tendon injury. I had a couple of operations to finally get it right, so it was during that time that I worked out the design with the tattooist and he did the magic. I have always been interested in Tribal designs and culture, so the tattoo reflects that, and it reminds me of that really tough 14 month period in my life: the really low points which made me strong and determined, and a high point when I finally got back fit to play super league again after 14 months of recovery and rehab. I've heard tattoos are addictive. Will you get more or are you done? Yes, tattoos are very addictive, I think I may get some more in the future but I've not decided yet. I know you come to the States for modeling jobs, where all have you been? Yes, I've been to a couple of places in the States, NYC, Miami and LA. Where have you not gone but would like to? I would love to visit Vegas. America is a huge country so I'm sure there are loads of beautiful places to visit. For me, because I'm a Native Texan, I have to ask: have you been to Texas? I have not but I would love to visit Texas :) How does it feel to be a muse for a character in a book? I'm very flattered to be your muse for Finding Home. It's a pleasure to be liked :) When I was looking through pictures of you on the Internet, I came across one where you were holding a guitar. I grew up a Band Geek and love music of all kinds and try to incorporate it in my books when I can. That picture inspired a whole scene in the book, where Colt is stressed about something and picks up his guitar and is idly playing while talking to his girlfriend, Sarah. Do you play? Yes, I play the guitar, not really well, though, I'm still learning. I'm a beginner so it's a working process. Later in the scene, he sings to her. Do you sing? I try to sing but I'm not the best at that either. I need to practice more {Ann: I'm sure all the ladies are feeling what I am right now: *swoon*!!! Stu singing! *sigh* ;)} OK, now let's get personal. Are you ready for this? I'll make it as painless as possible. Lightning round: Are you right or left-handed? Right What's your favorite food? Steak or chicken Favorite drink (non-alcoholic) Sparkling water Favorite drink (alcoholic) Corona Favorite car? Land Rover Sport Motorcycles? Harley Davidson Favorite color? Black Favorite movie? Anchorman Favorite TV show? Walking Dead/Game of Thrones Favorite actor? Gerard Butler Favorite actress? Eva Mendes Favorite type of music: rock, pop, techno, metal, country, rap, hip hop? A bit of everything Favorite song? Kings of Leon - Use Somebody Favorite band/group? Kings of Leon Favorite singer? Ed Sheering Snow in the mountains/sun on the beach? Sun on the beach everyday Cats/dogs/neither? Neither; I don't have time for pets Nike/UnderArmor/Other? Nike Favorite sport OTHER than rugby? Boxing Favorite team? North Wales Crusaders - My Team, ha Favorite American sport? (if any) American football Favorite American team? (if any) NY Jets Boxing or MMA? Boxing, but I like both, as both are really tough sports Watching TV, snuggle together or give you your space? Watching TV or movies: cuddles with Em Walking with your girlfriend, hold her hand, your hand on her back, arm around her shoulders or waist, or don't touch at all? Holding hands or no touch at all Would your girlfriend say you are a Pushover or Alpha male? It's 50/50 I guess. We have give and take or it wouldn't work. I'm an Alpha male but a pushover if she's upset Boxers/briefs/commando? (lol, kidding! You don't have to answer that!) All 3, it depends on the situation :) Thank you so much for taking time to indulge the silly writer! And thank you, again, for what I'm sure by now is the millionth time I've said it, but thank you for being so great with all this and for sharing your time and your picture with me and my readers! You're welcome anytime :) x

About the Author

Ann Vaughn is a Native Texan now living in Oklahoma. Writing has always been a comfort and a release for her, though she never expected to be published. It wasn't until a conversation with her husband about the rise of eBooks that she decided to try her hand at self-publishing. It was scary and exciting and ever since the release of her first book, Long Way Home on August 7, 2013. She now has three books available for purchase through Amazon, Long Way Home, Finding Home and A Home for Christmas, with the fourth and final book in the Home Series, Finally Home, releasing on March 10, 2014. In December 2013, Ann was named to Amazon's Romance Editor's List of Fan Picks for Top Debut Author. When not at her desk, lost in the world of the Home Series, Ann can usually be found at the ballparks watching her son's high school baseball games, or her daughter's softball or soccer games...or chasing after her energetic Border Collie puppy!

Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Amazon Author Page ~ Goodreads

Purchase Her Other Books Today

Amazon ~ Amazon UK ~ Amazon CA ~ Amazon AU

On sale for only $.99!

Amazon ~ Amazon UK ~ Amazon CA ~ Amazon AU

Promises in the Dark Book Blitz

Book Title: Promises In The Dark

Series: Secrets of the Mystic

Author: Princess Racena McConell

Genre:  Paranormal Romance

Released:  November 17, 2013
Length:  345 Pages Print

Presented by: As You Wish Tours

Banner Made by: Julia Hendrix

 BLURB

What began as a casual dinner with friends quickly blossoms into a beautiful friendship for Rachel Adams and Derek Williamson. In time, it will develop into something much greater than either could have ever imagined. The pair have each had their share of tragedy and heartbreak that time has yet to heal. As their friendship evolves into something much more, Rachel begins to open up to the man she has fallen in love with about secrets that have consumed her life for so long.

Just when life seems to be opening up possibilities for the two of them, inexplicable and unsettling things start to happen. When these mysterious occurrences begin to invade their happiness, they are faced with the reality that they must find the truth about what haunts them. Will they survive as they uncover some of these long-kept secrets? Will the mystical forces that linked the lovers together so long ago be the same to destroy them in the end?

A Valentine's Date with Derek

To me, Valentine’s Day has always been a magical time. There’s nothing sweeter than seeing the look of complete love on my baby’s face when she opens that special gift that came straight from my heart. If you were my Valentine, what would you want from me? A special night out, maybe a long walk on the beach ending with a romantic moonlight dinner by the shore? Or would you prefer an intimate night at home where you have me all to yourself? Can I tell you what I want? I want you, just you and me, in a room full of candles and roses. I dream of kissing you in places you’ve never been kissed, loving you in ways you’ve never dreamed possible, and hearing you say my name as only you can as I drive you wild with ecstasy. Just thinking of you touching me drives me wild, imagining the feel of your lips on my body is almost too much!

Believe my lovely lady when I say the first night we spend together will be the best of both of our lives! I cannot wait hold you in my arms, and caress every part of you. Loving you is what I was made for. So my sweet valentine…what do you say, will you be mine…can I be yours.

Book Links

AUTHOR BIO
Princess Racena McConnell( who has never and will never go by her first name) was born in Kings Mountain NC and now resides in the busy little town of Summerville SC with her husband of 32 years. She is the mother of 3 and grandmother to 4 with a 5th one on the way! "Promises In The Dark"; her debut novel—is part 1 of a story that has been in her mind for many years, and finally had to be told! She enjoys spending time with her family, and is so thankful they all live within 20 minutes! She also enjoys reading, writing and anything horror related. Her dream is to someday see her books splashed across silver screen!

Author Links

Presented by

GIVEAWAY

First Prize: Promises In The Dark Signed Paperback & Set of Earrings

Second Prize: Promises In The Dark eBook & Set of Earrings

Third Prize: Promises In The Dark eBook & Signed Bookmark

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Phantom Bigfoot Strikes Again Event

Stop by this weekend and join the Phantom Bigfoot Strikes Againg Book Release Event on facebook!!  It's hosted by Totally Talented Promotions!  Here is the link to join:

Event Link

Chat Conversation End

Welcome to Big Beaver, home of the Phantom Bigfoot Bather and his many crazy teenage friends. Phantom Bigfoot Strikes Again is a ludicrously different take on Bigfoot and his habits. It quickly dispels the Hollywood b-movie version of a cannibalistic female-ravaging monster. Big Beaver’s tribe of Bigfoot is so peace-loving they sadly make easy targets for hunters. 

This is where Duane-o the no-brain-o comes in. At the age of 18, Sam, his father reveals the truth of their hermit-like existence in the woods of the Shasta Cascade surrounding Big Beaver. Sam hands over the task of The Guardian to his son, also genetically altered by The Elders, tall Swedish-looking aliens from the planet Abba.

And now for one whole year, Duane has lived the life he was always meant to live - free of normal drag-me-downs that every other teenager has to endure. He has the ability to see and hear what his close friends are doing, no matter how far away they may be. He can heal with the touch of his hands, and uses this ability many times to save injured animals and the reason for his existence - Bigfoot.

But most of all, Duane loves being a WereBigfoot, to run free in the dark forest at night, play with the animals and have such fun - until that dumbass Beau Bruger, a teenage friend of his, goes missing.

Things get real tricky for our superhero, Duane-o, when Beau, the plumber’s 17 year old son goes missing, apparently abducted by Bigfoot. As if! Beau is always saying he’s been taken by Bigfoot, so no one believes he’s missing, not even his parents. 2 days pass and Duane smells a rat and she is Zola, a naughty 16 year old Bigfoot desperate for a mate. This means his closest friend, MB, local crypto-zoologist and general busybody will be sniffing around with his big nose looking for that elusive evidence - Bigfoot!

To make matters worse, Duane must also reunite two star-crossed lovers - the gorgeous Sheriff Louise Harper and the anal FBI Agent Virgil Tuckerwood. This he has to do on orders of The Elders. But on his arrival in Big Beaver, Agent Tuckerwood is all regulation and spurns Lou’s advances. Lou thinks Virgil is having a fling with his partner, the sexy Agent Merlot as she overhears them getting it on. Poor Duane is at a loss how to get them hitched, but he must succeed or The Elders might take this as a weakness on his part.

Now Duane-o has to keep the FBI and Sheriff Lou from discovering his epic secret. So he must find Beau first and keep him from revealing the truth of Bigfoot. But what Duane does discover deep in the forest is so mind-bogglingly stupid, even he can’t fix the problem.
So Duane must rely on dumb luck and the wisdom of The Elders to keep his secret a secret or he will be stripped of his superpowers and remain in Big Beaver a normal human being like every other Beaverite. Not that there are any normal Beaverites.
Excerpt:

Not long after that it was Duane’s eighteenth birthday, and he had the shock of his life, just after his mother had left. He woke up from a night of weird visions chasing ape-like creatures in the forest. As usual he had to use the toilet. He burst into the bathroom and came to a stop. Before him, stood a Bigfoot as naked as a jaybird, but not naked. The creature was covered head to toe in long blond hair and was at least seven feet tall.
As he stared at the Bigfoot he recognized his father’s facial features.
“Dad … is that you?”
“Hello Duane ... I guess it’s time I explained some things.” He laid a hand on Duane’s trembling shoulder. “I’ve been The Guardian of the forest for too long now and it’s time to join my new family.” He smiled big yellow teeth.
“What’s happened to you, Dad?” Duane thought of the film Teenwolf. “Are you a werewolf?”
Sam laughed. “No Duane ... I’m a WereBigfoot … not a true Bigfoot and not exactly human. I was chosen by The Elders, as many before have, to help our tribe stay a secret and to stop their gene pool from drying up.”
“Chosen?”
“Yes, son, chosen by the lights up at The Big X. They took me to the place I can never remember, but that’s not important ... what is ... is you, my son ... you must continue to protect the forest and its secret.”
“What secret, Dad?”
“The Bigfoot! They must never be discovered ... don’t ask me why ... The Elders have never thought fit to tell me ... but it’s real important ... but I gotta go now, Duane.” Sam shuddered and trembled. “The forest is calling me.”
Duane heard strange animal sounds echoing through the woods. “Woooo … wooooo … woooooo.”
“Am I going to change too, Dad?”
“Yes son, you are The Guardian now. The lights will tell you what to do ... and your sixth sense will come in handy.”
“Sixth sense … like in the movie?”
“Not exactly, Duane …do you remember the lights?”
“You mean that time I was spying on Virgil and Lou at Little Beaver and I saw the lights? Not long after that Virgil left,” he added as an afterthought.
“You got it in one, Duane. They chose you way back then. In the pantry is some weird-tasting stuff ... fermented Jooobaaa ... drink it all ... but not at once ... it helps prepare the way. If you like you can water it down with some OJ and limejuice, makes a great cocktail. It won’t diminish its unique qualities.”
“Eh, okay Dad. Will I see you again?”
“Yeah … I’ll be dropping by now and again to see how you’re doing.” Sam kissed Duane’s cheek and dashed from the log cabin howling like a howler monkey.

E-ARC Review: The Tyrant's Daughter- J.C. Carleson

Title: The Tyrant's Daughter
Author: J.C. Carleson
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers (February 11, 2014)
Pages: 163
Format: e-ARC from Netgalley
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Summary: From a former CIA officer comes the riveting account of a royal Middle Eastern family exiled to the American suburbs. 

When her father is killed in a coup, 15-year-old Laila flees from the war-torn middle east to a life of exile and anonymity in the U.S. Gradually she adjusts to a new school, new friends, and a new culture, but while Laila sees opportunity in her new life, her mother is focused on the past. She’s conspiring with CIA operatives and rebel factions to regain the throne their family lost. Laila can’t bear to stand still as an international crisis takes shape around her, but how can one girl stop a conflict that spans generations?

J.C. Carleson delivers a fascinating account of a girl—and a country—on the brink, and a rare glimpse at the personal side of international politics.

*Bonus Backmatter includes a note about the author's CIA past, and a commentary by RAND researcher and president of ARCH International, Dr. Cheryl Benard. Recommendations for further reading are also included. Review: * Note: The copy I received only had 163 pages so I hope I wasn't missing half of the book.
I received this book free from Netgalley in exchnage for an honest review.
When I saw this cover on Netgalley I knew I needed to read the book, then when I read the synopsis it made me want it even more. I haven't really read very many Middle Eastern (whether they are based on or real) books but I do find the different cultures very interesting to learn about. I found that even though this book was a work of fiction it had enough real qualities that I could connect to the story and feel where the characters were coming from.
I really loved Laila's character despite her have being kept in the dark most of her life, she just had this innocence about her that the author really made work in her favour. Now Laila's mother I did not like at all. She was such a manipulative character not only to outsiders by to her own family, she was a snake in the grass.
I'm really hoping that there are more books so I can see how Laila uses her new found information and what will become of everyone. I would recommend this novel readers interested in different cultures.

About this author

J.C. Carleson never intended to be an author. Although she was always a proficient writer of term papers, reports, and other necessary but mundane documents, she didn't consider herself cut out for the creative life.

Nearly a decade as an officer in the CIA's clandestine service changed that.

With her head now brimming with stories of intrigue, scandal, and exotic locales, Carleson was finally ready to give writing a shot. Her fiction and non-fiction works alike tap into her unique experiences, drawing readers into the highly charged, real world of espionage.

2nd Round:Back to Life Blog Tour

*~* 2nd Round: Back To Life Blog Tour *~*

*~* Synopsis *~*

Sahara Lee has spent the last ten years living with the guilt of a tragic accident and its aftermath. That night irrevocably changed the outgoing, fun-loving college freshman into an introverted, workaholic with no social life. Sahara isolates herself from everyone and everything that reminds her of home in an effort to forget what happened. Using art as a substitute for love, Sahara throws herself into music and art as a way to feel something other than the guilt that haunts her. She accepts her lonely existence as penance for the role she played in the accident. That is, until she meets Tyree Barker, the good looking entrepreneur with baggage of his own. 

Blindsided by a legal loophole, Sahara is suddenly forced to confront the past she’s been running from. Juggling the guilty feelings of her past and the unexpected feelings of her present, Sahara’s future becomes complicated as she heads down a path of forgiveness, love, and heartbreak…and not in that particular order. 


Back to Life reminds you that living and existing are two completely different ways to go through life. Grief will break you but guilt, guilt will destroy you. And once that happens, what can bring you back to life?

*~* Links *~*

Amazon

Goodreads

*~* Main Characters *~*

               

                  Emanuel                                  Tyree

Sahara

*~* Author Bio *~*

I am a married event planner and life coach.  My awesome friends and family and my amazing husband make my life sweet.  I love to have fun and enjoy the life I’ve been blessed with.  I love shopping and football with equal fervor.  I’m an amateur movie critic (i.e. my husband and I watch and critique a lot of movies for fun). I love to read and I enjoy sharing my love of books with anyone who will listen. I love music. A good lyric with a good melody can paint a vivid picture and invoke such a range of emotions. I have a soft spot for most mediums of creative, artistic expression.

With degrees in psychology, human services, and marriage and family counseling, I have a unique perspective on life, love and the pursuit of happiness.   As an author, I combine an active imagination and life experiences to create stories that are easily relatable and intentionally intriguing.  I want to offer you a peek into someone else’s life and for you to get lost in their story, their trials, their triumphs.  My ultimate goal is to create a character or a story that stays with you long after you’ve put the book down.

So in a nutshell: I plan. I teach. I read. I write. I watch. I critique. I shop. I play. I love.

To know me is to love me.

*~* Author Links *~*

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Back to Reality is Book #2

ON SALE NOW!!

*~* Links *~*

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Book Blitz: Stripped From You- Marissa Carmel

Title: Stripped from You (Strip Me Series)

Prequel to Strip Me Bare

Author: Marissa Carmel  

Genre: New Adult  

Release Date: TBA

Cover: Okay Creations Blitz Host: Lady Amber's Tours

Blurb:

You know how it ends, not see how it all began… 

"It doesn't matter how many women have touched this body, only one woman has ever touched this soul."

Ryan Pierce doesn’t come from much, doesn’t ask for much, and doesn’t expect much. And he's come to accept that, until, Alana Remington. Alana is the girl who struck the match that lit his world on fire. She's the girl who opened his eyes to more. Who made him believe that just because you have nothing, doesn't mean you are nothing. And he loves her fiercely for it. But, just because you come together, doesn’t mean you stay together. One fateful decision rips Ryan and Alana apart and neither of them are ever the same again.

For five years he's regretted that decision, but the deep seeded anger, shame and resentment has kept him from reaching out. And over those five years, a series of moments have spun Ryan's world in a direction he never saw coming. A world ruled by endless nights, infinite women and the name Jack the Stripper. A world, unbeknownst to him, that may just let two severed hearts collide.

Marissa Carmel has loved writing ever since a young age. She has a duel degree in History and Political Science, but took as many creative writing classes in college as she could. She spent most of her twenties bartending, which is where she met her husband and a multitude of interesting people. When she’s not reading or writing, she’s hanging out with her family, experimenting in her kitchen or doing yoga on the living room floor.

Links:

Goodreads TBR: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18484521-stripped-from-you

Author Links:

Goodreads:  http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18001430-strip-me-bare

GoodReads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5211765.Marissa_Carmel

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Marissa Carmel/e/B005OKFXXU/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2?qid=1361243544&sr=8-2

Twitter: https://twitter.com/marissacarmel      Handle:  @marissacarmel

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/marissa.carmel.5

Author pg: https://www.facebook.com/authormarissacarmel?ref=hl

Web/Blog: http://marissacarmel.com/

Pinterest- http://pinterest.com/marissacarmel/

Playlist:

Hold on, We’re Going Home- Drake

The Other Side- Jason Derulo

Demons- Imagine Dragons

Dark Horse- Katy Perry

Say Something- A great Big World

Summertime Sadness- Lana Del Rey

Royals- Lorde

“Do you trust me?”

“Of course not, I just met you.”

“Then how about giving me the benefit of the doubt?”

She raises an eyebrow at me, and before I give her a chance to respond I slam the shot then pull her face to mine. And as my mouth covers hers, heat rapidly spreads through my body. She’s momentarily stunned; her body rigid against me, but then she relaxes, parts her lips and lets the tart liquid slide into her mouth.

I can’t believe I just did that.

I can’t believe she just let me.

After she swallows, she lets her lips linger, sucking up the taste of the sweet shot, causing my nervous system to shift into hyper-drive. We break apart slowly, but I refuse to let go of the nape of her neck. She just stares up at me with these enthralling eyes I know I’ll never be able to resist.

“Do you always break the rules?” she asks.

“No, not usually, but you seem to make me want to do crazy things.”

“Was that crazy?”

“Let’s do it again and find out.”

I lick my lower lip, tasting the sweet remnants of her lip gloss before I drop another shot. I pause for just a beat before lean down and press my mouth back to hers and let the alcohol flow between us. I flick my tongue against her teeth right before I pull away. I shouldn’t like this so much, but I do. I like the way she looks, the way she feels, they way she smells. There’s something about her, something ventilating; like she oxygenates the atmosphere.

I catch the cool beats to a song I recognize pumping though the air. “Do you want to dance?” I ask her.

“You can dance?”

“There’s only one thing I can do better.” I smirk.

Alana cocks her eye brow suggestively.

“Draw.” I fire back. “The only thing I can do better is draw. Dirty girl.” I tease as I grab her hand and lead her out to the dance floor knowing Mac will look after our drinks.

Once we find a comfortable spot, I start to move to the smooth rhythm, leaving a little room between us so it doesn’t feel like I’m forcing myself on her. Drake sings coolly about hot love and affection as we move in sync to the beat, our bodies brushing and grazing as the music plays on, then finally coming together in a comfortable unison. I wrap one hand around her waist as I roll my hips into hers, pressing our bodies as close as they can possibly get. Alana runs her hands up my chest and hooks her arms lightly around my neck keeping tempo with the music. She moves lithely against me, inducing my heart, thoughts, and pulse to race. Fuck, I’m drowning in want for this girl. I slide my hands up under her shirt and caress the smooth, soft skin of her lower back as she nuzzles her face into my neck, her warm breath skating across my collarbone, making me instantly hard.

Damn.

She lifts her head and meets my stare, which I know is filled with lust and unrepentantly wanton. She bites her lower lip, our bodies still jiving to the slow seductive music. In a brazen move, I slip my hand up the back of her bare thigh and cup her ass cheek under the hem of her short shorts. She gasps as I work my fingers against her, massaging the fleshy part of her bottom. I’m absolutely aching being this close to her, touching her, stroking her, grinding against her.

“Are you sure drawing is the only thing you can do better?” she pants in my ear.