There is something about a woman who can hold her own. She stands up for others and protects them. I fell in love with Buffy because even with all the typical teenage problems, she stood at the Hellmouth and kept back evil. Scarlet is like that. She is willing to give up the things important to her to protect the world. 

Here's an excerpt....
Scarlet ran her fingers over the elegant scrawl of the first entry in Jason’s journal. She was thankful for the world of information contained therein: pages she had read a thousand times over the years until they were permanently embedded into her brain. It detailed everything Jason knew about what he called the Legacy, as well as meticulous notes on every assignment. It also contained information regarding the numerous investments Jason had made over his lifetime. The sum staggered her, as did the knowledge it was all hers. She was no millionaire, but she wasn’t far from it. There was enough to ensure she could live comfortably for the rest of her life, however short it might be.

She replaced the worn journal in its hiding place by the bed, drawing her own out instead. A few newspaper clippings drifted to land in her lap and she gathered them up. “Mother of two foils kidnapping attempt,” she read out loud. Two years earlier, Scarlet had pulled Sandra Ellis out of a burning building. She smiled at the memory. It had taken two months before her singed eyebrows returned to normal.

Local Medical Student Receives Position with Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta. His name was Allen and he never knew, just three days before receiving the letter, his life had been saved because of a flat tire—one she had caused with a well-placed shove of one of her blades. As he grumbled and sweated to change the tire, he’d avoided the drunk driver who would have taken his life.

Firefighter Risks Life to Save Bus Full of Children

Teen Creates Foundation to Help Troubled Youth

​These were just a few of her validations for the long, lonely nights she spent in diligent surveillance. Sometimes she wondered how many more of these clippings would become a part of her own journal before it was her turn to pass the Legacy on. Realizing her thoughts had turned maudlin, she shook her head and stuffed them back into the rear of the book. Once secure, she turned to a clean page and began to write about Jeffrey Coreman.

One woman, one man, one Legacy, one chance to save them all.

Something malevolent stalks the world spreading chaos and discord, targeting those individuals who are destined to provide a great service to humanity. Most are not aware of their sinister plots, but one is.

To the casual observer, Scarlet is only a bicycle courier, however, she is so much more. When the shadows lengthen and evil walks, she is judge and jury, exacting justice. Perhaps some may call it an honor but she calls it a curse because she can't have a family or friends and can't relinquish it until the day she dies. With no help, she muddles through best she can, hoping to make a difference at the price of her own happiness.
​
Gage Williams, Senior Detective, is searching for a mysterious vigilante who leaves behind a sea of destruction and a grateful public. When all the evidence points to Scarlet, he has to weigh it against his own heart. Is it possible the woman that has captured his attention is the one they are searching for?
 
When the Legacy calls, Scarlet must answer.
Even if it costs her everything.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melissa was born in Tupelo, Mississippi and raised in Houlka, a small rural town forty-five minutes southwest down the famous Natchez Trace. She found a love of reading very early and quickly devoured everything she could. In the fourth grade she discovered a multitude of worlds when she received her first library card. Told repeatedly that she had a wonderful imagination, she turned to scribbling her musings and wrote her first novel while in college. It was never published and has since vanished. The death of a close friend who aspired to become an author awakened her own desire resulting in penning her first book, Shattered Dreams, published in 2013. It was quickly followed by two sequels with a forth final book in the works.
​
Melissa now resides in Meridian, Mississippi with her supportive family – husband, Robert and daughter Rebecca, two cats, and a precocious Chihuahua. When she isn't writing, she spends way too much time communicating with her online friends and feeding her ravenous appetite for the written word.

Website: https://melissakayclarke.wordpress.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Melissakayclarke/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MelissaKayClark
Blog: https://melissakayclarke.wordpress.com/

A Starr falls, and a family is found.

On the run from the Organization, Starr and Christian find safety on the Qualla Boundary with their friends, Ben and Coda, but Starr needs answers. She owes her dear dead friends, Sami and Jody, that much. She forms a team of her own to fight the general and his recruits.

Di, a mutual friend and anti-everything is a no-brainer, plus her Taser will come in handy. Frank, Starr’s BFF, will put his life on the line for her. Ben and Coda, not to be outdone by Starr’s friends, also swear their allegiance. Christian’s the only hold out. He knows what the Organization is capable of. He has the beaten body to prove it, but when Starr wants something, she gets it.

Now that the team’s together, everything should be perfect. Trouble is Starr loves Christian but so does Di. And Frank, well, he’s never been very good at hiding his love for Starr. Will his four-year long crush on her threaten the safety of the team?
​
Life becomes tense on the Qualla Boundary, sparks fly, and the Organization is about to smash in their door. 

On the run from the Organization, Starr never planned on falling in love.

Starr Bishop’s the complete package. A perfect smile, brains to match, and a winning attitude. Boys want to date her and girls want to be her. She’s the type of girl you want to hate, if only she wasn’t so damn likable. But don’t worry, she’s not interested in your boyfriend. Boys are one complication she can live without.

When the Organization decides she’s not only the model student but the ideal assassin, Starr’ll need a lot more than high test scores and extracurricular involvement to get herself out of that commitment.

Dark, moody, and dead sexy Christian Evergood is the last person she’d expect—or even want— to come to her rescue. From opposite ends of Webster High’s social hierarchy, their lives collide in one electrifying moment. Christian isn’t the Goth loner he pretends to be, he’s a part Cherokee, All-American boy who wants to be a hero, Starr’s hero. Christian makes Starr forget that the Organization is after her, but nothing will stop the Organization from collecting their top recruit.

By the way, the spot for junior class president just became available.

​Amazon
​

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
​Kim once smashed into a tree while skiing. The accident led to a concussion, a cracked sternum, temporary notoriety as a sixth grader returned from the dead, and the realization that fictionalized accounts are way more interesting than just slipping on the ice.
An unhealthy obsession with conspiracy theories combined with a love of travel and happily ever afters led Kim to write her YA novel, Starr Fall, where a secret organization decides Starr Bishop would make the ideal assassin. While in hiding, Starr meets dark, moody, and dead sexy Christian Evergood. Cue the swoon worthy music. But it’s not all happily ever afters for Kim, her NA novel, And Then He, explores the dark and scary corners of the human psyche. Following a night of innocent flirting with a handsome stranger, Tiffani finds herself in the midst of a nightmare she can’t escape. And Then He is available now through Amazon and other major book retailers. Starr Fall will debut November 2016 with Inkspell Publishing.
When she’s not doing something writerly, Kim can be found jumping into snow drifts with her three kids, husband, and dog. She’s careful to avoid trees.
Visit her website and sign up for updates: www.KimBriggsWrite.com
Chat with her on Twitter: @kimbriggswrite
She shares writing love with her INK Sister Alison Green Myers at INK Sisters Write http://INKSistersWrite.Blogspot.com
 
 

A wolf-shifter and his powerful human.

Reaper had expected it to be an easy assignment. Break into a biotech facility with minimum security and rescue a group of immortals who were subject to deadly experiments and eliminate those who might try to fight back. But the moment he walked into the glass prison and spotted a human woman being held with the immortals, his mission changed.

She became his mission.

Before Reaper had a chance to explain that he was there to help her, she blinded him and the rest of his team and slipped away. Although she had escaped him, a protectiveness that he'd never felt washed over him, and he became determined to find her.


Ara has always depended on herself, but there was something about the shifter that made her want to trust him. She recognized him as someone who was capable of protecting her as well as understanding her secrets without turning her away, but before she could allow herself to trust him, she ran.

But with no resources and running out of ideas about how to protect herself, will she be able to lower her defenses and allow the shifter to help her?

All of his muscles locked down as he scanned her, making sure that she hadn’t been hurt.  When he found her injury-free, he blew a sigh of relief.
​
Comparing the last memory he had of her, he took note that she had lost even more weight from her time on the run.  Her body, clothed in scrubs that were similar to the pair she wore close to a month before, hung loosely on her curvy frame.

Before he could rein it in, a low growl of disapproval slipped past his lips.  Either too tired or determined to get into the house, she missed the noise.

He kept his gaze on her as she ran up the porch and hesitated a moment, before she waved a hand in front of the door.  When the door unlocked, she pushed her way in and closed it behind her.  He heard the distinct click of the lock sliding back into place.

Although he wanted to rush after her, scoop her up, and take her home while she would be too tired to launch him down the block, instinct told him to wait.  If he found her, then someone else could’ve as well.

Less than five minutes after she entered the house, a figure emerged from the woods several yards from where he stood.  Without disguising his movements, the man ran up to the porch and jiggled the doorknob.  His amateur actions covered the noise of Reaper’s advance.

As Reaper stood feet away from eliminating the new threat, a male voice erupted through the man’s earpiece, making the asshole jump.  Reaper paused and listened to the angry voice.

“Have you got her yet?”

Instead of answering, the stupid git removed the offending object from his ear and stomped on it.  “I’m going to kill that bitch when I get a hold of her.”

Reaper waited until the man went back to his futile attempt at picking the lock before he unsheathed a knife from his thigh.  Not giving his target time to make any more progress on the lock, he stepped forward and wrapped a hand around the man’s mouth and nose, silencing his shout of surprise.  Rage filled Reaper at how close this man had gotten to her.  So with precise movements, he drove the knife into the man’s chest to the hilt and twisted.  The man was dead within a matter of seconds.

He hid the body on the side of the porch.  The bushes would prevent anyone from the street happening upon him.  After the woman was secured in his home, he would call for a cleanup crew to make the body disappear.

Reaper hadn’t been surprised that they caught up to her, and he knew that this one man’s incompetence didn’t mean that whoever chased her would make the same mistake twice.  He had to rush before the man in the earpiece realized that his colleague lay dead.

Stepping up to the door, he placed his hands, several inches apart, and pressed until the locks gave way.  He slid inside without a sound before shutting the door.  Taking a deep breath to get a trace on where she might have gone, he was surprised because it seemed as the entire house smelled of her.  Light and sweet.

He darted from room to room.  They were running out of time before they were discovered.  Desperation clawed at his chest as he found each one empty.  At the top of the stairs, he paused when a faint cry reached him.  Unsure of where the sound came from, he wandered farther down the hall, hoping that the sound would repeat.

Mumbles and whines of pain came through the door farthest away from the master bedroom.  As he opened the door, the floor beneath him started to shake, which intensified the closer he moved into the room.  Not knowing what had caused the house to move, his need to protect her ramped up.

His eyes snapped to the woman who lay curled in the corner of a tiny mattress, whimpering.  After a minute, he realized that the louder her whines, the more the house shook.  Sprinting toward the wall she had burrowed against, he scooped her up into his arms and tried to soothe her with unintelligible words that streamed from his mouth.  He pressed her tighter to his chest when his words failed to reach her, and wondered how he could get her to calm down.

​Valerie writes paranormal and contemporary romances with strong alpha males and brilliant, beautiful heroines. She lives in Denver, Colorado with her wonderfully supportive husband and their funny and wise black lab. She's addicted to coffee, crime shows, and reading and writing character driven romances.

FACEBOOK ~ TWITTER ~ PINTEREST ~ INSTAGRAM ~ GOODREADS ~ AMAZON
​

Each person handles loss differently. But I was wondering how long you think people should wait after they lose a spouse (death/divorce) before dating/remarriage? 

I didn't wait very long after my divorce to begin dating. I had gone through counseling and knew my marriage was over. In Michigan, you have to remain in the same house for six months if there are children. It took a whole year before my divorce was final. I lived in the same home, but separate room. 

Some people would say it was too soon. But I believe when you know things are right with a new person, you should at least give things a try. It's hard not to...

In MO Kenyan's latest release- Addicted to Him, our heroine believes her husband is gone. He was a military man. She begins to fall for his twin brother but when her husband comes back, things become tricky... 

Love is the most powerful drug.

Kit didn’t expect much when he returned home after being declared M.I.A for more than a year. The one thing he didn’t expect was that his wife and his twin brother would be planning their wedding.  He now has to figure out whether or not his marriage is worth fighting for.
 
Danny was in a trance, ever since she heard that Kit could be dead. She grasped onto the first float that would keep her from drowning, unfortunately that was Chris, Kit’s twin brother. Her mind slowly unravels when Kit comes back, she has to make a decision that would affect their lives forever.

EXCERPT:
​“You scared her away,” Christopher said.

The note of irritation in his tone didn’t escape Kit’s attention.

However, Kit was far from caring. That girl, Daniela—Danny—she did things to his heart that he’d never thought possible. And that was it for him, a warning sign he should stay away. Kit was committed to his career and because of it, he had decided never to get married or have kids. Danny had the house with the white picket fence, the Mrs. Kent and the five babies playing in the yard written all over her. Kit was just starting to get somewhere with his career. The last thing he wanted was a woman to veer him off the path. There was only one way he knew he would be able to stay away from her.

“Topher, you should totally go for it.”

He hated himself the moment those words left his lips. Christopher and Christian had promised each other never to date a woman the other was interested in, or had previously dated. And since betraying his brother would be equal to chopping off his right limb, Kit had stayed true to that promise.

“I don’t need your okay. I was going for it, before you rudely interrupted me. I think I’ll meet up with her tonight, right after the guys get in. Are you coming?”

“Where?”

“Tonight, here, for a pre-birthday-party party.”

“No, I think I’ll save my energy for tomorrow.” Kit was trying to convince himself that this was the right thing to do. True, there had been a vibe—more like an electric current—that had flowed between him and Danny. But he had to focus on his career. Turning down assignments so he could stay home with his gal was not an option. And yet he found himself staring in the direction she had disappeared to. “I’m going to head back up to the room.”

“Whatever.” Christopher was busy with his phone. Kit could only imagine what he was starting up. He was glad he wouldn’t be present for part one of the disaster. The sooner Kit could get back on base, the better.

About the Author:
Love is supernatural. I live my romance through my words. I believe in love and love believes in us.
https://twitter.com/Kenyan_Knight
www.mokauthor.wordpress.com
http://www.facebook.com/MokAuthor?ref=hl
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6445835.M_O_Kenyan
​

For me, growing up wasn't about privileged. I lived in a blue collar home in a large family (5 kids-two adults).  No maids unless you counted us. We washed dishes by hand. Yep, no dishwasher either. Luckily we did have a washer and dryer but often Mom wanted the clothes hung out to dry. 

I'm not complaining about my life. It was pretty cool. We spent the days across the street in the quarries playing Charlies Angels or house. We raked leaves and jumped in them and caught fireflies. For all that we lacked in money, we more than made up for in love.

In Overcast, Alec has money and a big house. He has a housekeeper, Hanna, but not the fun times I did... Here's an excerpt....

My breath fogged the glass as I sat as straight as I could to see out the car window. I wiped it with my scarf and kept looking.

Hanna pulled up to a stop sign. The only building not covered in Christmas lights was the church on the corner. The church did have lights, though. They sat under the craggy trees and splashed light up the uneven surface of the stone walls.

A mom and dad were holding a little girl’s hands while she stared up at the church, at the tower thing that held the bell. Her long, dark, wavy hair fell down her back from under her knit hat. Her hair was shiny, like the ripple of a stream in the moonlight. It was prettier than all the lights.

Hanna turned the corner, and I watched, twisted in my seat, until the little girl was gone.

“So,” Hanna said, “I hear you got an award today. What was it for?”

When I didn’t answer, still trying to see the little girl, Hanna looked at me in the rearview mirror. “Alec, dear?”

I slumped back into my seat. “I turned in the most book reports.”

Overcast is the third book in the Taken Series by MS Kaye but is a prequel where we get to know Alec and the boy he was before he became the man...

​Alec Kaden is the son of organized crime. But that’s not what causes him to be cold, and anger to crawl up his spine. He trusts his father’s judgment—his mother’s death in childbirth was his fault. Only one person can calm the monster inside him, but he will not allow her to know him, to see through him and find the darkness lurking behind his detachment. Will he forever remain her invisible protector?

M.S. Kaye has several published books under her black belt. A transplant from Ohio, she resides with her husband Corey in Jacksonville, Florida, where she tries not to melt in the sun. Find suspense and the unusual at www.BooksByMSK.com.
 
To receive news on upcoming releases, sign up for email updates on her website.
 
Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Google+  |  Goodreads  |  Amazon  |  TSU  |  Pinterest  |  LinkedIn
 
Other books by M.S. Kaye 
Romantic Suspense:
Fight Princess
Kindling the Past
Endless as the Rain, book one of the Taken series
Overcast, prequel to the Taken series
Echo Through the Mist, book two of the Taken series
 
***
Young Adult:
Strong as Death, book one of the Born from Death series
Awaken from Death, book two of the Born from Death series
Clouded
 
***
Contemporary Romance:
Once, book one of the Once series
Once & Again, book two of the Once series
Once & Forever , book three of the Once series

I'm so excited to share with you Melissa Kay Clarke. She's a new author who is fabulous. Let's get right to it.  Hello and welcome to my blog.  I’m so excited to have you here today. I know that the readers are looking forward to learning more about you.  Please tell us a little about yourself. 

I was born and raised in Mississippi and except for a short time in the late 1990's, have lived my entire life here.  I am the oldest of four children with my brothers, Barry and Kevin next then the baby, Jana.  We lost our parents in 2015 to Cancer I attended Mississippi State University where I met my future husband, Robert, when he was hired by my then boyfriend to tutor me in a class.  We were married a year later.

Writing has always been a dream of mine, but one that I didn't embrace fully until 2013.  It took loosing a very good friend, Robin, before settling down to write.  My first novel was self published in 2013 and was followed by 2 more in 2014.  Though I feel it is one of the highlights of my life, the day we adopted our daughter, Rebecca will always be the pinnacle of my accomplishments.  She really is our little gift from God.

Family is important to me too. Like you, I didn't get into writing really until later. Now onto some fun questions!
If you could change one thing about our world, what would it be and why? 

I would love to see selfishness obliterated from this world.  I know it's not something that is possible, but I hope to see it much reduced in the future.  Every time I think of the senseless violence and the wake of destruction left behind because of selfish people, my heart aches.  We deserve better and our children deserve much more.   Every bad thing that has happened to humanity can be traced back to one or more selfish acts.
 
If you knew the exact date of your death down to the minute, what would you change about your life starting tomorrow?

Spend more time with my family and try to see more of this wondrous world.  Most of all, I would try to not leave behind a single regret and know that I always did my best to be the person that people will remember for the good I've done and not for the stupid mistakes I've made.
 
When was the last time you felt alive? I mean really alive! 

Standing on the top deck of a cruise ship with the wind blowing so hard I could barely stand.  The sky was filled with beautiful oranges and reds as the sun slipped towards the horizon. I will remember that moment for the rest of my life.
 
When was the last time you helped someone that was desperately in need? What did you do? Was this person grateful?

It wasn't the last time, but one that really stands out to me was several years ago.  My friend, Robin, had a son was a brand new father.  She wanted to go see him and the baby but was unable to because of financial difficulties at the time.   I organized a group together and was able to purchase a round trip airline ticket for her.  It couldn't have happened without everyone helping out, but it was the moment when I could be proud of what we as a group could accomplish together.  Sadly, Robin passed away not too long after that, but at least she got to see her first grandchild and spend some time together. 
 
What television sitcom is most like your family? Why?

The Last Man Standing -  Mike Baxter is a lot like my husband, opinionated, stubborn, intelligent but also very supportive, nurturing and protective of his family.  I can relate to Vanessa with her concerns about following her career choice vs following her heart.  She chose to be a teacher instead of working with her geology degree.  I have a degree in Business Information Systems but much rather be an author full time.  Our daughter, Rebecca, has all the characteristics of the Baxter girls - she is smart and opinionated like Kristin, sarcastic and stubborn like Eve and has a wicked flare for fashion and being pretty like Mandy.
 
What’s your favorite thing to do to relax?

I love spending time with my family and online friends.
 
Let’s find out a little bit about you as an author.
Did you always want to be an author?

I learned to read by the time I was 5 and would devour everything I could get my fingers on from cereal boxes to magazines to any novel I could find.  I always loved how authors could create people and places in your head and wanted to have that magic as well.  I've written lots of short stories, some poems and even started a couple of novels over my lifetime but only became serious with it in 2013.
 
What authors had an impact on you growing up and as an adult?
I love all books, but discovering Piers Anthony  in high school became a huge impact on my choices in literature.  To this day, I still have stacks of his books. I've devoured everything I could find including Xanth series, Adepts,  and Incarnations of Immortality to Letters To Jenny and Bio of a Space Orge.  I've also enjoyed Melanie Rawn, Anne McCaffrey, Steven R. Donaldson, Terry Brooks, David Eddings, C.S. Lewis and a host of other fantasy writers. 
 
Piers is one of my must haves. I loved his Incarnations of Immortality series. Do you have any “must haves” with you while you’re writing?

Just my computer and my music.
 
What have you learned the most from being in the writing business?

Patience is a virtue and even when you are 100% sure that you are ready to submit a book, it's still not quite ready.  At those times, you have to say, "Enough".  Otherwise, you will keep tweaking it and it will never be really finished.
 
Tell us about your latest release:

One woman, one man, one Legacy, one chance to save them all.

Something malevolent stalks the world spreading chaos and discord, targeting those individuals who are destined to provide a great service to humanity. Most are not aware of their sinister plots, but one is.

To the casual observer, Scarlet is only a bicycle courier, however, she is so much more. When the shadows lengthen and evil walks, she is judge and jury, exacting justice. Perhaps some may call it an honor but she calls it a curse because she can't have a family or friends and can't relinquish it until the day she dies. With no help, she muddles through best she can, hoping to make a difference at the price of her own happiness.

Gage Williams, Senior Detective, is searching for a mysterious vigilante who leaves behind a sea of destruction and a grateful public. When all the evidence points to Scarlet, he has to weigh it against his own heart. Is it possible the woman that has captured his attention is the one they are searching for?

When the Legacy calls, Scarlet must answer.
Even if it costs her everything.
Reclamation: Book One of The Legacy Reborn - Coming November 26,2016

Preorder: Amazon   Kobo    


How did you decide on your story plot?

I was listening to a talk show on the way to work one morning and they were discussing the plot of a television program where the killer had all the faces and names of his victims tattooed on his body.  I got to thinking, what if the opposite happened and instead someone got the names of people who they had saved tattooed onto their body.  That morphed into Scarlet and The Legacy.
 
How did you choose your characters names and location for your story?

I never said exactly where my locations are in this book, but they have a striking resemblance to the Meridian, Mississippi area.  I always wanted to have a character named Scarlet.  It's a strong name and reminds me of someone full of fire and righteousness.  As for Gage, I took a poll with several friends and that is the name they chose.
 
Do you have a favorite scene? Why?

That moment when Scarlet realizes that she has been wrong all these years and not only is it possible to have an intimate relationship, it actually strengthens her.  It's almost like a V-8 moment.  She slaps herself in the head and says, "Oh, you mean I could have had this all along?"  It's a humanity moment. 
 
Do you have a character that you identify with? Who and why?

As strange as it seems, I can identify with the Sitrians fairly well to a point.  It's extremely easy to be caught up in the promises and lures of getting everything you wanted.  I think, as humans, we are naturally drawn to those things that tempt and persuade us.  Those that can overcome that temptation and continue to do what is right and avoid our own selfish pursuits are the heroes of this world.
 
Let our readers know how they can get a hold of you…
Website: https://melissakayclarke.wordpress.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Melissakayclarke/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MelissaKayClark
Blog: https://melissakayclarke.wordpress.com/
 
Is there anything else that you want to share… feel free!!

I've been asked a few times how do I write a book.  I tell them it's different for everyone.  Some people make elaborate outlines and storyboards.  For me, it's just sitting down, putting on my music and typing.  Think about where your mind is and who it sees.  Put those visions down on the screen.  Don't worry about if people will like it or not.  All that matters is that you like it.  Writing is just a lot of letters placed on a page and arranged in a fashion to express your own soul.  There is no wrong or right as long as you are true to yourself.

Thank you for stopping by! I hope people pick up this book and check out your work!
 

Hello and welcome to my blog.  I’m so excited to have you here today. I know that the readers are looking forward to learning more about you.  Please tell us a little about yourself. 
I’m so excited to be here, Melissa. Thank you for having me. In the author world, I go by Ashley Brooke Robbins. I’ve been on this planet twenty years and other than books and writing, I love animals, mythology, cryptozoology, and to make people laugh.

(Guys- Ashley has some amazing stories to check out.) Now onto some fun questions!
If you could change one thing about our world, what would it be and why?
As messed up as our world is, nothing needs to be changed. There must be bad to balance out the good, because one can become overzealous and takeover. So, even in a hypothetical situation, I can’t think of anything to change because I believe in the end, it’ll find the healing itself.

What a very positive outlook! I like it! If you knew the exact date of your death down to the minute, what would you change about your life starting tomorrow?
Spend more time with my family, and maybe enjoy life more, stop worrying so much.

When was the last time you felt alive? I mean really alive!
I feel alive when I’m surrounded by those I love and laughter is in the air. I’m lucky enough to experience this on the regular basis.
​
When was the last time you helped someone that was desperately in need? What did you do? Was this person grateful?
There was a family stranded on the side of the road and I gave them money for gas. I guess they were grateful, they said thank you.

What television sitcom is most like your family? Why?
The Big Bang Theory, because we’re all nerds in our own unorthodox ways.

Which one is Sheldon? What’s your favorite thing to do to relax?
This is magical. Have music playing while taking a candlelit bath.
 
Let’s find out a little bit about you as an author.
Did you always want to be an author?
Nope, not at all. And unlike most, I hated, no, loathed reading to begin with.
 
What authors had an impact on you growing up and as an adult?
L.J. Smith, love her books so much and Serena Pettus.

I read all the L.J. Smith books I could get my hands on when they first came out. Do you have any “must haves” with you while you’re writing?
Headphones. Music is life.
​
What have you learned the most from being in the writing business?
All writers have one thing in common; stories race through our heads. It doesn’t matter who gets them out faster. The tales we tell are all beautifully majestic in their own way.  
​
Tell us about your latest release: (blurb, excerpt, cover)

My name is Rose, and welcome to the summer break before my senior year. You’d think I’d be a little more excited, sorry to disappoint. My mom thinks I’m in a state of depression. I yell how nuts she is…then begin snot-crying, uncontrollably. So embarrassing.

I live on a small island named Luna Bay, in North Carolina. I should be getting excited like the rest of the teenage population to venture off into the enchanting world of endless exams and studying—college. Instead, I spend my days hiding out in my room, living vicariously through the lives of fictional characters.

Until my whole world turns upside down when I throw water in an innocent guy’s face. That’s when the headaches start, the blackouts and general craziness, ya know, more so than normal.

“Sometimes the worst possible situation turns into something great. Something you’ll never forget…remember that.”—Rose Kaylin.
 
EXCERPT
So tired... My head drops into my pancakes and a groan escapes me. 

“Rose!” my mother yells.

“Peanut puppies!” I jerk up, arms flailing.

“Oh, shit,” Henry rumbles, eyes shooting from me to everyone else, “the meds have fried her brain, what she has left of one, anyway.”

“Not funny,” Dad growls disapprovingly.

“She’s fine. She just isn’t used to them yet. Give it time.” Mom waves it off and goes back to reading the reviews for her book on her iPad.

Jarrod shakes his head, appearing aggravated and goes back to eating his breakfast, which doesn’t take him long to finish. “You wanna go to the mall with me?” he asks. I takes me a minute to realize who he’s talking to. This is a first, for both of us. So, in reply, I stare at him.

The rest of the people at the table are pretty much doing the same. “You’re joking, right?” Henry chuckles then frowns when Jarrod doesn’t crack up.

“Samantha’s birthday’s coming up.” He shrugs, like it’s not a big deal. “I need help picking something out for her. Something girly.”

“Yeah.” I snort. “’Cause I’m so feminine.”

“Will you come with me or not?” he snaps, jaw muscle twitching.

“Whatever.” I throw my hands up, slouch out of my chair, and take off down the hall.

“Excuse me, young lady. You were not excused!” my mother yells heatedly.

“I don’t care!” I really don’t.
​
“That’s it! With that attitude, you’re not leaving this house, do you hear me?” By now she’s screeching. She’d be perfect in one of the bands I listen to. She could scream just like one of the Butcher Babies. If only she’d get her head out of her ass long enough to breathe fresh air, she might realize it’s not devil’s music.

Amazing right? How did you decide on your story plot?
It was the too good to be true scenario, and the downfall. So in other words, I finally decided to write down what goes on in my head, all the time.

How did you choose your characters names and location for your story?
Choosing a character’s name is never easy… I closed my eyes and pointed. It was very serious. And the location was easy. It’s based off Oak Island, N.C. a heavenly place, so peaceful, just go there and you’ll understand.

Do you have a favorite scene? Why?
My favorite scene is when they, Rose and Caleb, are lying on the roof, stargazing. The rest of the families there but it doesn’t seem like it. This is my favorite because Rose bypasses what society has programmed into our heads as what should be beautiful and sees the truth that’s been there the whole time. 

Do you have a character that you identify with? Who and why?
Rose. Because like her, I’m very stubborn, believe there should be a lot of sarcasm in the world and I keep my heart very well protected. 
 
 
Let our readers know how they can get a hold of you…
You can find me at my website JustThatWeirdoNextDoor.com, or on basically any social media site.
https://www.facebook.com/Ashley-Brooke-Robbins-371372429658958/
https://www.instagram.com/justthatweirdonextdoor/
http://weheartit.com/JustThatWeirdoNextDoor
https://twitter.com/ThatWeirdoNext
​
Is there anything else that you want to share… feel free!!
Embrace your weird and be yourself forevermore. 

I'm addicted to candy... but only certain kinds. I do love gummi bears and of course chocolate. Mainly if it is sitting here, I'll eat it.  Then there's books... My husband would say I'm addicted to them (pointing to all the bookshelves). What are you addicted to? In Addicted to Him, book 5 in The New Yorker series, we have a character who is addicted...to her husband...

Love is the most powerful drug.
​
Kit didn’t expect much when he returned home after being declared M.I.A for more than a year. The one thing he didn’t expect was that his wife and his twin brother would be planning their wedding.  He now has to figure out whether or not his marriage is worth fighting for.
 
Danny was in a trance, ever since she heard that Kit could be dead. She grasped onto the first float that would keep her from drowning, unfortunately that was Chris, Kit’s twin brother. Her mind slowly unravels when Kit comes back, she has to make a decision that would affect their lives forever.

Hello and welcome to my blog.  I’m so excited to have you here today. I know that the readers are looking forward to learning more about you.  Please tell us a little about yourself.
I’m Mark Love (yes, that’s really my name). I lived for many years in the metropolitan Detroit area, where crime and corruption are always prevalent.  Among other jobs, I worked as a freelance reporter, which was great training for writing fiction.  I have three mysteries published in the Jamie Richmond series, “Devious” “Vanishing Act” and “Fleeing Beauty” and several short stories.

I live in west Michigan with my wife, Kim. I enjoy a wide variety of music, books, cooking and the great outdoors. Currently I’m working on several other novels.

​The Jamie Richmond books are a wonderful read. I love the police action and romance between Jamie and her investigator boyfriend. Now onto some fun questions!
If you could change one thing about our world, what would it be and why? 
Peaceful acceptance of others. It shouldn’t matter what we look like, what religion we believe in, what our sexual orientation is or what culture we’re from. Embrace the global differences and views. Imagine what our world would be like if that was possible.

If you knew the exact date of your death down to the minute, what would you change about your life starting tomorrow?
Well, depending on how much time I’ve got left, I’d break out the maps and figure out where I want to travel to. I’ve heard about some incredible parts of this world that seem to beckon me. I’d start with the Amalfi Coast of Italy and go from there.  And I’d sign up for dance lessons!

When was the last time you felt alive? I mean really alive!
Two years ago I went to Japan for my oldest son’s wedding. Experiencing that beautiful country and the people was amazing. But seeing what an incredible young man my son has become left me speechless. (Pretty bad for a writer!) Watching the ceremonies, his interactions with my daughter-in-law and her family, was a form of validation of my life. Just thinking about it brings a smile to my face.

When was the last time you helped someone that was desperately in need? What did you do? Was this person grateful?
One of my neighbor’s has a son-in-law who has been struggling to get his life on track. He’s found a house to rent and wants to make a home for him and his children. I’ve offered to help him move and will be giving him some extra furniture we have.  He’s very grateful.

What television sitcom is most like your family? Why?
Last Man Standing.  We don’t watch many sitcoms.  Something about Tim Allen’s characters just resonates with me. 

Could it be because he's a Michigan actor? What’s your favorite thing to do to relax?
I love to read. Getting lost in a good book is almost therapeutic.  That and a good glass of wine!

Let’s find out a little bit about you as an author.
Did you always want to be an author?
Yes, since I was a kid I was always intrigued with a good story.  I wrote a little bit in high school, but never thought I’d ever write a complete novel, let alone get one published.

What authors had an impact on you growing up and as an adult?
I’m a mystery junkie. I read a lot of John D. MacDonald as a kid. When I got older, my tastes expanded. I was drawn to the great ones like Elmore Leonard and Stephen King.  Now I’ll grab Lee Child, John Sandford, james Rollins and Greg Iles every chance I get.

Do you have any “must haves” with you while you’re writing?
Gotta have music. I can’t work in silence, it drives me crazy.  And I can’t work with an outline, no matter how many times I try. I must have that freedom to create good characters and just turn them loose.

I'm a silence person... funny how that goes. What have you learned the most from being in the writing business?
That writing a novel is only half the game. You need to promote, to draw people to your tales. My creative time is limited due to other commitments. I’d rather work on a revision than do promotions, but it’s a necessary part of the business. 

Tell us about your latest release: (blurb, excerpt, cover)

FLEEING BEAUTY
A discovery of priceless artwork leads Jamie on a collision course with danger.

Jamie Richmond used to live a nice, quiet life. But last fall she witnessed the shooting of a police officer and figured out who did it. Then this winter saw her best friend targeted by a stalker and kidnapped. Yep, Jamie solved that one and came to the rescue. Now it’s summertime and the living is supposed to be easy. All she wants to do is write her novels and spend free time with Malone, the guy who has been by her side since all this craziness began. But that’s not likely to happen.

Jamie’s father was a very successful sculptor who tragically died more than twenty years ago when she was just a child. What she remembers about him is little more than bits and pieces. A storeroom filled with crates of his work is discovered in an old converted factory. This potential fortune in artwork has been waiting all these years.

Jamie recruits Malone and a few close friends to help her unpack the crates and bring her father’s gifts out to the light of day. News of this discovery leads to a robbery. Now Jamie is determined to figure out who is behind the crime.
 
Excerpt:
In a different century, Malone could have been a cowboy. He’s a little shy of six feet tall, with a wiry, muscular body. His dark hair is a perfect complement to the most incredible blue eyes I’ve ever stared into. I always think of the color cobalt when I see them. Malone’s got this disarming, calm quality about him that will occasionally slip to reveal the mischief brewing inside. Tonight was a perfect example. He didn’t say a word as he got to the picnic table. Malone just reached down and lifted me from the bench. Then his lips were on mine, surprising me with his intensity.

What’s a girl to do?

Malone wrapped me in his arms, pressing me tightly against his body. The feel of his muscular chest and arms was quickly getting me aroused. Still too busy kissing me to speak, Malone’s hands found my waist. Now he lifted me off my feet and placed me on top of the picnic table. But not before he managed to work the shorts off my hips. My legs were dangling off the end of the table. His lips moved to my neck and he began to nibble me.

“We have a very comfortable bed inside,” I managed to say.

“I’m in the mood for a little moonlight madness.”

The way he was kissing me was driving me mad. I reached for his belt, but he brushed my hands away. As Malone was sucking on my earlobe, I heard his zipper slide down. He cupped my head with his left hand and eased me onto my back. I reached up to caress his face. Malone caught my wrist in his free hand and moved it above my head. Holding both of my arms above me, I felt him enter me.
 
How did you decide on your story plot?
I usually start with a basic idea and sketch it out. Then I’ll try a few subplots, to see what works and what doesn’t. Sometimes it all comes together quickly.  Sometimes I’ll get ten thousand words into a story and realize it’s just not coming together. So it’s back to the beginning.

How did you choose your characters names and location for your story?
I use the Metro Detroit area for most of my stories. It where I’m from and after more than forty years there, I know the area well. I always incorporate landmarks and people you might recognize if you’re from the area or visiting it.  Names are important to me. Often I’ll use a name that might give you a clue as to how the character will behave.

Do you have a favorite scene? Why?
In “Vanishing Act” there’s a scene where Jamie and Linda go to a friend’s house to learn how pole dancing is an exercise program.  I interviewed a fitness instructor for a minor character in the book and she admitted this was something she did. The most important instruction she gives every group of women is “you will always end up on the floor. Just remember to get up sexy!”  She read the scene after I wrote it and claimed it was perfect. 

Do you have a character that you identify with? Who and why?
Malone. He’s a stand up guy who does his best to keep up with Jamie. He can be adventurous and spontaneous, which is a good balance for Jamie.

Let our readers know how they can get a hold of you…
https://www.facebook.com/MarkLoveAuthor
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B009P7HVZQ
https://www.goodreads.com/author/dashboard
http://motownmysteries.blogspot.com/
​

Thank you Mark for stopping by! I hope readers will check out Fleeing Beauty! Here's where they can pick it up! And don't forget to leave a review... reviews are like water to an author's soul....
Amazon
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Kobo
​Itunes

I absolutely love when an author has a "mix tape" for their book. It provides me insight into the book and the author. Today, Kim Briggs', author of Starr Fall, has shared her playlist with us!

Hmmm... I can see that I've got some listening to do! From reading the blurb and excerpts (Okay, I've also read the book), I know exactly what Starr was dealing with when she was choosing these songs. Let me share....

On the run from the Organization, Starr never planned on falling in love.

Starr Bishop’s the complete package. A perfect smile, brains to match, and a winning attitude. Boys want to date her and girls want to be her. She’s the type of girl you want to hate, if only she wasn’t so damn likable. But don’t worry, she’s not interested in your boyfriend. Boys are one complication she can live without.

When the Organization decides she’s not only the model student but the ideal assassin, Starr’ll need a lot more than high test scores and extracurricular involvement to get herself out of that commitment.

Dark, moody, and dead sexy Christian Evergood is the last person she’d expect—or even want— to come to her rescue. From opposite ends of Webster High’s social hierarchy, their lives collide in one electrifying moment. Christian isn’t the Goth loner he pretends to be, he’s a part Cherokee, All-American boy who wants to be a hero, Starr’s hero. Christian makes Starr forget that the Organization is after her, but nothing will stop the Organization from collecting their top recruit.

By the way, the spot for junior class president just became available.
 
 
What People Are Saying About Starr Fall…
"I was swept up in Kim Briggs' whirlwind of secrets, swoon, and adventure from page one. Beautifully writing combined with a smart, driven protagonist made this a book I couldn't put down.”
—Isabel Bandeira, Author of Bookishly Ever After (Jan 2016) and Dramatically Ever After (June 2017)
 
As the opener in what promises to be a thrilling series, Starr Fall hits the ground running and hits the water swimming. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough as Starr went from a super-achieving but otherwise pretty normal high school junior to a girl on the run from a shady, powerful government (maybe) agency and a deep, dark conspiracy we only see in glimpses. And why has the weird kid from school suddenly become her ultra-hot sidekick, with a connection between them that literally gives off sparks? He’s a lot more than he seems. Every answer raises another question as the reader ricochets between the threat level outside the remote cabin and the heat level inside it. Briggs knows how to crank up both kinds of tension, in the best possible way. Book two can’t come soon enough for this reader!
 - Liz Coley, author of the award winning, internationally best-selling Pretty Girl-13
 
 
Starr Fall by Kim Briggs Book Excerpts
As we canoe back to the opposite shore, we crack jokes about the old troll the entire ride. When we reach the shore, I step out of the canoe, take my shirt off, and dive into the water. The cold water blasts any remaining nerves out of me. When I come up for air, Christian’s eyes are wide with surprise. I remember the bikini I have on and become very self-conscious, but I have such a high from swimming, I don’t want to kill my buzz. I put my hands on my hips. “What?”

“I..., I,” he stutters at a loss for words. “You just dove in and disappeared. You surprised me.”

I wink at him. “I’m full of surprises.”

“Evidently.” He smiles and dives in the water. I take a guess when he’s coming up for air and dive in the opposite direction. When I can’t swim any farther, I lift my head. He grins at me and dives again. We play this cat and mouse game for a while, until my laughing makes it impossible to swim any distance.

He grabs me around the waist. “Gotcha!”

Electricity pulses through the water between us. Does he feel this too? I shyly look up at him. Yes, yes he does.

Floating in the water, times stands still. Staring into each other eyes, the tension returns. Is he going to kiss me? I think he’s going to kiss me. I want him to kiss me... I shiver.

“You’re cold,” he whispers.

I shake my head in denial, but the goose bumps give me away. He smiles and pulls me to shore. Strike two. Way to go, Starr. Way to go.

Reluctant to leave, I stand at the water’s edge watching the late day sun. The damp sand between my toes helps calm my racing heart. He wraps a towel around my shoulders and whispers, “Later.”

Later. One little word with so much promise. 

About the Author
Kim once smashed into a tree while skiing. The accident led to a concussion, a cracked sternum, temporary notoriety as a sixth grader returned from the dead, and the realization that fictionalized accounts are way more interesting than just slipping on the ice.

An unhealthy obsession with conspiracy theories combined with a love of travel and happily ever afters led Kim to write her YA novel, Starr Fall, where a secret organization decides Starr Bishop would make the ideal assassin. While in hiding, Starr meets dark, moody, and dead sexy Christian Evergood. Cue the swoon worthy music. But it’s not all happily ever afters for Kim, her NA novel, And Then He, explores the dark and scary corners of the human psyche. Following a night of innocent flirting with a handsome stranger, Tiffani finds herself in the midst of a nightmare she can’t escape. And Then He is available now through Amazon and other major book retailers. Starr Fall will debut November 2016 with Inkspell Publishing.

When she’s not doing something writerly, Kim can be found jumping into snow drifts with her three kids, husband, and dog. She’s careful to avoid trees.
​
Visit her website and sign up for updates: www.KimBriggsWrite.com
Chat with her on Twitter: @kimbriggswrite
She shares writing love with her INK Sister Alison Green Myers at INK Sisters Write http://INKSistersWrite.Blogspot.com
 

Midnight, the witching hour, the middle of the night...a  time for romance or a time for danger...
​
Midnight has often been a time where magic happens and in Kristy Centeno's latest book, Midnight is the perfect place for not only romance but also magic. Check out the fabulous cover!

A past shrouded in darkness.
 
A mission that can mean the difference between life and death.
 
One week to find the answers they need.
 
With the memories of her historical love for the Soul Broker who was once commissioned to harvest her soul, eradicated from her mind, Daya must embark on a perilous journey through dangerous territory to find those who might shed some light into the mystery that surrounds them. But what she uncovers along the way may prove too daunting for her to come to terms with.
 
Trapped in a loop she can’t get out of, Daya’s only tool for survival is trusting Mason. But will betrayal be a determining factor when they both have something to gain by giving up on each other?
 
NOTE: This book is the continuation of the short story featured in the anthology, Blood in the Shadows. Midnight picks up right where Shadows left off.
​

Don't forget to pick up the story that started it all!!


Acclaimed author Kristy Centeno, and award-winning author of The Star Child series, Stephanie Keyes, bring you two stories that prove love and light can overcome the pain and shadows. With secrets hidden in the night, and dangerous creatures prowling the woods, trusting the enemy can mean either life or death. Shadows and The Boy In The Trees...Two dark worlds...One night that will change their lives forever...Where evil lurks, only goodness can prevail. 

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About the Author:
Kristy Centeno is the author of the Secrets of the Moon saga and Keeper Witches series.
She has always had a passion for books and after years of being an avid reader, she decided to transform her desire to write into a reality and thus, her first novel was born. When she’s not busy taking care of her five children or holding down the fort, she finds time to sit and do what she loves the most: writing.
 
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