Giveaway – The Birth Of Death by Joseph P Macolino @XpressoTours @Evorath

Posted on June 9, 2023 by fundinmental

The Birth of Death
Joseph P. Macolino
(Evorath, #1)
Publication date: August 11th 2016
Genres: Adult, Fantasy

What you see on the surface is not always what you get.

Meet Artimus, the head investigator for the elvish kingdom of Erathal who begins to notice the flaws in his apparently perfect society. As he develops feelings for Savannah, a beautiful elvish druid hiding an important secret, he struggles to separate his personal feelings from his responsibilities to the kingdom.

In a nearby center village, the young warrior Irontail struggles to distinguish himself in a tribe where independent thought is discouraged. When their paths cross, they both discover that their own people’s shortcomings may be the least of their concerns. Putting aside their own personal troubles, they must fight against the clock to ensure the very survival of their peoples. As they work towards this common goal, they find that they each have their own, unique gifts to offer. But, will they be strong enough to survive?

The second edition of the critically-acclaimed 5-star fantasy epic, The Birth of Death takes readers on an unforgettable fantasy journey. Re-released in collaboration with Free Dragon Press, the second edition brings all the excitement of the initial release in a more refined package. Dark elves, demons, centaur, elves, trolls, and a host of other fantasy creatures, Evorath offers it all!

Editorial Reviews:

“Overall, The Birth of Death is definitely recommended to fans of LOTR and Game of Thrones.” – Readers’ Favorite 5-Star Review

“Snappy writing keeps the action moving, and satisfying doses of lore, bolstered by appendices with maps and a glossary, will keep readers wanting to return to the world of Evorath for more.” – The BookLife Prize in Fiction

Goodreads / Amazon

On sale for a limited time only!

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EXCERPT:

As the embarrassing exchange concluded, Goldenchest left Irontail alone with the two elves. He felt uncomfortable after being scolded by his elder, but he was mature enough to ignore the shame. His habit to think about every little order before executing it was proving to be quite a nuisance lately. Still, he had a job to do, and he wouldn’t let his embarrassment interfere.

Fortunately for Irontail, both elves were much too shocked to ask any questions as their eyes traveled across the giant chamber. Even Irontail could not believe that all this was possible, but somehow the elders had gathered a druid from every sentient species of the forest.

He spotted the satyr druid he had escorted across the hall and watched as he conversed with a beautiful lamia. Not far from them were a group of lizock who seemed intent on being isolated, a practice common to their race. To the other side of the room there were felite conversing with a pair of barghest and a rather small troll. This was a gathering to be proud of and knowing that it was his elders who had organized this event reassured Irontail of their infinite wisdom. Never before had all of these races united for a single cause.

“I don’t believe my eyes,” Artimus exclaimed as his gaze passed over the felite and fixed in on the troll.

“Is that a troll?” Savannah asked.

“Yes it is,” answered Irontail full of pride.

“What are all of these people doing here?” Artimus questioned. “And what is that dog looking creature?”

“I believe you mean the barghest, sir.” Savannah interjected matter-of-factly.

“Yes, it is a barghest,” Irontail confirmed. “Their elders claim that at one time they were more numerous than both our species put together.”

“There are many legends about barghest being around in the age of demons, before elf, dwarf, centaur, or any other common race even existed,” Savannah added.

“Don’t stories also say that barghest fought on the side of the demons?” Artimus asked.

To that, Irontail had no answer. History was not one of his strong points.

“I don’t know,” he interjected, “But enough about the barghest. You asked why they have gathered. I shall give you an answer.”

Irontail paused for a moment, trying to figure out exactly what to say. In all honesty, he wasn’t even sure of the exact reason these races had gathered. All that he did know was what his elders had told him in the meeting he attended just after escorting the satyr courier. He just needed to make it look like he understood more…

“Well. You see. These nine races that are gathered represent the greatest species of the woods. These nine, including both your race and my own, will perform the first perfect druidic ritual. With your help,” he said turning to Savannah, “all nine races will be present and the ritual will be done.”

“Wait,” Savannah began, her face losing color. “Are you talking about a Xyrloom?”

Author Bio:

Husband, father, and seeker of truth, Joseph Macolino has a passion for nature, philosophy, and all things fantasy. An unwavering Christian and self-declared anarchist, he dreams of a future human society where people can truly cooperate and voluntarily exchange ideas, goods, and services.

When he’s not writing Evorath, he’s likely outside gardening, spending time watching a show with his family, or reading a book on philosophy. Considering himself a lifelong student of humanity, Joseph enjoys meeting new people and being exposed to new perspectives. He believes each person’s unique gifts can help contribute to stronger communities and hopes his work encourages others to embrace their gifts.

Evorath introduces a rich world full of magic, adventure, and diverse characters trying to find their place in the world.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

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Early Review – She Knows Too Much by Pamela Crane @MentalMommyPam

Posted on June 8, 2023 by fundinmental

She Knows Too Much by Pamela Crane will be released on 6.13.23

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Pamela Crane does not need to hook me any more. I will read anything she writes. After reading the first book in the If Only She Knew Mystery series, I was eager to get my hands on She Knows Too Much, Book II.

We have a very interesting character in Sloane, a deaf woman who runs an event planning company that she built herself. The character was inspired by Pamela Crane’s brother and sister in law, along with a Nigerian friend. She shared bits of the deaf world and Nigerian culture.

We also have Ginger, an older woman who suffers from chronic pain, but still has a sense of humor and a feistiness that keeps her on the move. I do love the mix of old and young characters.

And Tara. I thought we may see more of her in this book, after meeting her in Book I, Little Does She Know. She’s a bit needy. She may drive her friends a bit crazy, but she stands by them, through thick and thin.

We begin the story when Tara almost tripped over a hand sticking up in her yard. What? Who could it be? More importantly, who put it there? And why? The three women will become suspects.

The mystery is murky and the suspects are numerous. The villains, we have plenty to go around and they spread their evil freely throughout the town. They will stop at nothing to get what they want and I think they enjoy it immensely.

“You seem to attract a lot of trouble, Tara. The deadly kind, if you catch my drift.”

Peace has written a true crime novel and been a witness that put Marvin Valance in prison. She works with Tara on the horse ranch, saving horses that are to be sold for slaughter.

How Marvin managed to get released so early no one knew. There is so much corruption because of the Valance family pretty much controlling the town, and I think we may be able to figure that out. The big question is…will he be coming after her for revenge? I never saw the result coming and I love when an author catches me offguard. Good one, Pamela.

They will all learn that you cannot run from your past and secrets never stay buried.

She Knows Too Much seemed to start a bit slow to me, but I felt I would be rewarded by sticking to it, watching the story develop, the characters nosing around, asking questions, refusing to stand by and let the police do all the work.

We have moments of laughter, second chances and plenty of surprises. The last half of the book had me questioning everyone and everything. And…Pamela Crane leaves us with the question, what happens next? After reading the ending of She Knows Too Much, I can hardly wait to find out!

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of She Knows Too Much by Pamela Crane.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos — 4 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

A lot of people want Victor Valance dead. But only one is willing to pull the trigger…and is about to do it again.

Bloodson Bay has a dark history soaked in blood and revenge. When a murder is linked to three friends, it’s tough to prove their innocence when they each have a motive.

Tara: the town troublemaker with a heart of gold.
Ginger: the wild grandma whose fashion is stuck in 1986.
Sloane: the deaf entrepreneur thrust into fame after her husband is murdered.

All three women have one thing in common—a disturbing connection to the body buried on Tara’s horse ranch. Everyone in Bloodson Bay heard about the bad blood between Tara and the victim. And rumor has it Ginger’s been holding a grudge of her own. But only Sloane knows her own dark connection to him that she wishes would disappear…a secret she’s buried as deep as his body.

When they stumble on a 1990s cassette tape exposing clues from the past, the trio must work together despite their strained history to catch a killer. As if! Not even the Girl Power of the Spice Girls can prove their innocence, no matter how much they wannabe free from suspicion.

One of the women knows too much…and it’s only a matter of time before it gets them killed.

28 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 13, 2023 by Tabella House

ABOUT PAMELA CRANE

PAMELA CRANE is a USA TODAY best-selling author and professional juggler. Not one who can toss flaming torches in the air, but a juggler of four kids, a writing addiction, and a horse rescuer. She lives on the edge (her Arabian horse can tell you about their wild adventures while trying to train him) and she writes on the edge…where her sanity resides. Her thrillers unravel flawed women who aren’t always pretty. In fact, her characters are rarely pretty, which makes them interesting…and perfect for doing crazy things worth writing about. When she’s not cleaning horse stalls or changing diapers, she’s psychoanalyzing others.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

MY PAMELA CRANE REVIEWS

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Giveaway – The Unseelie’s Wallflower by Elisa Rae @XpressoTours

Posted on June 8, 2023 by fundinmental

The Unseelie’s Wallflower
Elisa Rae
(Courts of Conflict, #1)
Publication date: June 6th 2023
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance

Greyson hides many things from the Unseelie Court when they invade his estate each autumn for the Wild Hunt. During his required appearance as host, he is surprised to find a human among the glittering fae. She can see him even when he is using his stealth magic, which means only one thing—they are soul mates. Can he protect her amidst the swirl of fae politics and a plot against her life?

Lyra has grown up among the fae. She has been trained to be the perfect servant. Then her master brings her to the Unseelie Court event of the year and demands she demonstrate her skills to nobles. With the promise of freedom as a motivator, she willingly agrees. Then she realizes her master’s true plan thanks to the intimidating fae lord hosting the event. Though why he would be invested in her fate is a mystery.

The Unseelie’s Wallflower is a light, fantasy romance novella about a relationship between an Unseelie and a human woman. It features faes, fated mates, and a romance between a noble and a servant, all played out against a backdrop of the peril, politics, and maneuverings of the Unseelie Court.

Goodreads / Amazon

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EXCERPT:

Greyson

Then I noticed her, the singular human. A female, small even for her species, hid among the ferns at the foot of one of the massive pillars supporting the soaring ceiling. Dressed simply, she watched the crowd with wary attention, burrowing deeper into the plants’ accommodating fronds every time a guest wandered near her hiding place.

Curious, I meandered that way. Slipping around the far side of the pillar, I settled in the deepest shadows of the plant next to her fern and set my back against the stone. She had chosen a good spot for spying. Most of the foot traffic flowed around this central point, but few of the passersby glanced in our direction. They ignored the greenery placed around the walls and bracketing the windows of my entryway.

“Bored with eavesdropping?” she asked.

I glanced over at her. Fronds framed her features as her bright eyes scanned the mingling crowd. She hadn’t turned my way, but somehow, I was certain she spoke to me. Assessing our surroundings, I noted no one else stood close enough to overhear or be the object of her query.

“Are you speaking to me?” I asked.

“Who else?” She flicked a glance over her shoulder. Blue eyes focusing on my face and the softening of her mouth hinted at a smile.

“You see me?” Utter surprise brought a great rush of excitement. No one saw me when I wished to be hidden. Not even my own kind could detect my passing. Yet this slender human, magicless and helpless, not only saw me but didn’t hesitate to speak to me. It meant one thing. My breath caught in my chest. She was my soul mate.

“Of course, I see you.” Her mouth deepened into a suppressed smile while hidden laughter brightened her eyes. “You are a bit hard to miss.”

Author Bio:

A reader of fairytales and folklore, Elisa Rae loves a happy ending. Noblebright characters, dastardly villains, and chemistry between characters delight her. When she isn’t writing, she loves to watch superhero movies and literary dramas.

Elisa Rae is the pen name of Rachel Rossano.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / Amazon

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Brace Yourself for Tears Of Endurance (A Ferria/Fielding Novel) by D G Torrens @torrenstp

Posted on June 7, 2023 by fundinmental

Amazon / KindleUnlimited / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

I was scrolling through a list of my books and saw Tears Of Endurance by D G Torrens. I am constantly surprised with the free books I pick up…and this one blew my mind. Tissues will be required. I think I had tears in my eyes for the last twenty to twenty five percent of the book. I was heartbroken and want to congratulate D G Torrens on the ability to rip my heart right out of my chest.

I was expecting more suspense, but the romance of Arianna and Ben is the star that shines in the sky and the darkness that brings devastation.

I felt something like this was coming and I could not stop reading because of it. I had to know. I can hardly believe how quickly D G Torrens brought me into their lives. They are characters that made me care about what happened to them. I wanted the fairy tale. I wanted the happy ever after. I don’t know what an author is thinking when they take that away from me…………but, great job D G! You took my heart, ripped it from my chest and stomped on it……..repeatedly.

When a single tear fell from Ben’s eyes, that was the beginning of the end for me.
Before I was done, I had tears streaming down my face, trying to hide it from my hubby. Crying over a book. Crying over a made up story. LOL I did it and I am not ashamed to admit it. Love can be the highest high and the lowest low! Is it the worth the price?

What do you think? Maybe by reading Tears Of Endurance by D G Torrens it can help you decide to take that leap of faith and go for it, if you haven’t already.

I added this to my reading list in Januray of 2015 and I am soooo happy I did.

GOODREADS BLURB

A SECRET CAN TEAR YOU APART OR BIND YOU FOREVER…

For Arianna Ferria, a satisfying and challenging life as an art gallery owner takes an unexpected turn into burning romance when she falls for the handsome and successful Ben Fielding. Soon, their relationship blossoms into more than she could ever imagine. However, when a black secret comes crashing down around them, their love faces the ultimate test of endurance while they come to grips with a tragic fate that changes the course of their lives forever…

305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 21, 2013
Original title
Tears of EnduranceSeries
A Ferria/Fielding Novel (#1)

ABOUT D G TORRENS

D.G. Torrens is a UK & USA bestselling Author/Poet. D.G. has written and published 19 books to date and is currently penning book 20 – AMNESIA due for release 2021. The author is represented in the USA by Hershman Rights Management (HRM Literary Agents)
A prolific writer with a deep passion for the written word, D.G is also a founding member of bestsellingreads.com and AuthorCityUK.

Her first book, Amelia’s Story, inspired people the world over and has been downloaded over 500k times worldwide. Amelia’s Story is the author’s true-life story. It was never intended for publication. Originally, D.G wrote it for her daughter.
D.G. then went on to write military romance, romantic suspense, romantic drama, contemporary romance novels, and poetry books, which have all been received well. The success of Amelia’s Story led the author to the BBC RADIO WM 95.6 FM, in 2014/15 on the Adrian Goldberg breakfast show, where she lent her time as a weekly Headline Reviewer for 12 months. A quote from the author, “It can be quite daunting discussing the day’s headlines knowing thousands of people are tuning in… You never know when you are going to mess up! Thankfully, with lady luck on my side, I managed to wing it… “
Following on from BBC Radio, D.G has since been interviewed by, Award-Winning Radio DJ, Graham Torrington on the late-night show at BBC Radio WM and David Driver Author & DJ at Drystone Radio FM. Most recently, D.G was fortunate to be interviewed By American Radio Host/author/actor, Cyrus Webb at CoversationsLive.com Radio for Mississippi. The author’s first TV appearance was recently aired on AuthorPaedia TV Live hosted by Christopher Douglas author/host/interviewer/director. You can view all four episodes on YouTube (link below) to learn more about the author, her life and books: AuthorPaedia TV Link: https://youtu.be/e_2Affw7CtU
D.G is exceptionally driven and throws herself into all the projects that she takes on. D.G is a full-time author.

Quote by D.G. Torrens: ‘Don’t tell me to reach for the stars when there is a whole universe out there.’ (That is how she walks through life.)

Quote by D.G. Torrens: “Not everyone will understand your journey what matters is that you do.”

D.G. Torrens lives by the motto, “The child first and foremost.”

Website / Twitter / Facebook / Instagram / Bookbub

You can see my Giveaways HERE.
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Giveaway – The Lady And The Earl by Ruth A Case @kimbacaffeinate @RuthACasie

Posted on June 7, 2023 by fundinmental

Happy Release Day to THE LADY AND THE EARL by USA Today Bestselling author Ruth A. Casie. This is the second standalone historical regency romance in the Return to the Ladies of Sommer by the Sea. Come, read an excerpt and enter to win a signed copy of The Lady and Her Quill.

The Lady and the Earl

Amazon | Goodreads

A woman’s gaslighting behavior is a prescription for disaster.
But for whom?

Lady Harriet Manning is a skilled physician. She spends her days assisting her father, a renowned physician, and volunteering with the Ladies Auxiliary. Despite her passion for medicine and helping those in need, Harriet is bound by societal expectations that prevent her
from practicing medicine openly. Meanwhile, her mother is constantly pressuring her to find a suitable husband.

During a trip back to London, Lord Asheton, the Earl of Lockford, has a riding accident and is brought to Harriet’s clinic for treatment. The two grow close during his recovery, and their relationship begins to blossom. However, when Harriet’s family discovers that Asheton is the son of the Duke of Whippany, they are shocked. Harriet’s mother encourages her to put her medical abilities aside and conform to society’s expectations in order to fit in with Gavin’s world.

Despite their engagement, the ton is not happy with the match. Daphne Willis, in particular, has other plans in mind. Will Harriet and Asheton be able to overcome the obstacles in their path and find true love?

Return to the Ladies of Sommer By the Sea

The Lady and the Barrister
The Lady and the Earl
The Lady and the Rogue- coming soon

Read an Excerpt

“Where were you going in such a hurry?”

Lockford noticed Turner kept an eye on him.

“I’m on my way to London. It was foolhardy, but I wanted to run full out.” He snorted a chuckle. “I imagined I was leading in the steeplechase, and I’ll have you know, I had every intention of winning.”

“Until your mount threw you. He must have had other ideas about winning.” Turner shook his head and chortled.

Houses began to appear on either side of the road. They were coming into Sommer-by-the-Sea.

Turner pulled the wagon up to the side of a small building.

“We’re in time.” He nodded toward the lamp lit in the window. “The doctor is in.”

Turner hopped off the wagon, and with his help, Lockford hobbled into the clinic.

The pain was beginning to gather once again. He was lightheaded, and his stomach churned. Standing was too far from the ground. He needed to lie down.

“Mr. Turner?”

Lockford, still holding on to Turner, turned toward the door across the room and stared at the person in front of him. His tight expression relaxed into a warm smile.

She gave him one look. “Jasper,” she called without moving her eyes from the injured man at her door. She stared at him, and his heart pounded.

“Lady Harriet, he’s been in a riding accident.” Mr. Turner struggled as Lockford fought to stand on his own.

“My lady.” Lockford gave her a slight nod. “May I be so bold as to introduce myself? I am Mr. Asheton Dunn.”

He stared into her lovely eyes, silently congratulating himself for remembering to use his pseudonym, and proceeded to collapse onto the floor.

Download book one: The LADY AND THE BARRISTER for FREE, this week only!

About the Author

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Newsletter

Giveaway

Enter to win a signed copy of THE LADY AND HER QUILL book, one in the Ladies of Sommer by the Sea, the first in a trilogy. Open to US residents only. May the odds be forever in your favor.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Review & Blog Tour – Crossing A Fine Line by W L Brooks @pumpupyourbook #WLBrooks

Posted on June 6, 2023 by fundinmental

Title: Crossing a Fine Line Author: W.L. Brooks

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Pages: 314

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Well, I have come to my final book in The McKay Series by W L Brooks. I loved each of the five books, including this one, Crossing A Fine Line. My favorite is still the first book in the series, Let The Dead Lie, when the women were children.

Fletcher has always been my favorite. I guess I am like everyone else. I want to be the one to rush to her aid and save her, yet there is no need for that. She is quite capable of killing anyone with her bare hands, if she so chooses. She says she goes through the pain so her family won’t have to. She may be the most complicated, yet also the most heroic character I have met in some time. I have loved being with her since she was a young girl, learning to love and trust. That seems to be a work in progress when it comes to Noah, the sheriff.

“…don’t know what I would do if someone didn’t’ want me dead.”

That has been my experience with her too. She has someone, besides her family, who will put his life on the line for her and I have been waiting a long time for her to find her man.

They have butted heads from the very beginning, and, as I get all the details, I can see why.

I have many highlights in my ereader, but seeing this is the fifth book in the series, I want to try and be careful about sharing too much. I will say, this has been a fabulous series and I have loved every minute I have spent with the characters, even the peripheral ones. They will all hold a special place in my mind.

The secret kept in Crossing A Fine Line by W L Brooks is a whopper for Fletcher. I can feel her rage and pain when she finds out what it is and completely understand it. She has come a long way, because she is standing firm, facing her issues, not running away any more…or, at least, she doesn’t run far.

Crossing A Fine Line by W L Brooks is filled with action, some steamy sex scenes (which is long overdue for Fletcher, in my book) and danger, secrets exposed for the final time. I laughed with her, at times felt like crying with her, raging with her, and am so happy that she has her happy ever after.

When she is being dressed by her sisters for a night out on the town, I couldn’t’ help but laugh and think, how sweet. She is a grown woman, but I still see her as a child, so naive …’mascara was the tool of Satan’ and when Casey gave her the garter I laughed out loud.

I will miss the McKay family, but look forward to reading more of W L Brooks work.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Crossing A Fine Line by W L Brooks.

BOOK BLURB

Fletcher J. McKay has been shot, driven insane, and tortured by a madman, so what’s one more psycho coming after her? But this foe’s disturbing attempts to extinguish Fletch’s light leave her shaken. Running out of options, she must consort with the enemy.

Fletcher is undoubtedly Sheriff Noah Reed’s nemesis. Their discord began with an irrevocable outcome of an unforeseeable trauma, but duty demands he keeps her safe. The closer he gets, the more his loathing turns to lust.

Devastated by loss, Fletcher agrees to go into Noah’s protective custody. Passion takes them across the boundaries of their animosity, but is their tentative bond enough? Or is the line between love and hate, as with life and death, fixed.

Pre-order eBook on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3WQvhHV
Amazon (paperback): https://amzn.to/3WQ3irI

EXCERPT

Noah walked barefoot to his office and poured himself a scotch. He closed his eyes as the liquid traced a molten path to his stomach. Shaking it off, he sat at his desk and flicked on the TV for background noise. On top of his stack of mail was a letter with his name on it, one that hadn’t been there before.

Opening the drawer to his left, he pulled out a pair of latex gloves. Using every precaution, he unsealed the envelope and dumped out the contents.

He picked it up with his thumb and forefinger and unfolded the paper.

Reed around the rosy

Someone’s too damn nosy

Ashes to embers

Make sure he remembers

Ashes take flight

Someone dies tonight

What the hell? Someone had been in his house. He squeezed his eyes shut. She’d broken in before. Hadn’t she?

Damn it; this had gone too far. He got a plastic baggy from the kitchen, put the note inside, slipped on his loafers, and grabbed his keys. So much for getting any sleep tonight.

ABOUT W L BROOKS

W.L. Brooks was born with an active imagination. When characters come into her mind, she has to give them a life- a chance to tell their stories. With a coffee cup in her hand and a cat by her side, she spends her days letting the ideas flow onto paper. A voracious reader, she draws her inspiration from mystery, romance, suspense and a dash of the paranormal.

A native of Virginia Beach, she is currently living in Western North Carolina. Pick up her latest novel, Unearthing the Past – available now!

Website: www.wlbrooks.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/authorwlbrooks
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16200243.W_L_Brooks

MY W L BROOKS REVIEWS

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Giveaway – Casanova Cowboy by Jamie Schulz @XpressoTours @TheJamieSchulz

Posted on June 6, 2023 by fundinmental

Casanova Cowboy
Jamie Schulz
(The Montana Men Series, #2)
Publication date: June 6th 2023
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

She’s used to the glitzy, big-city life. He hides behind country-boy charm.
Will these total opposites spark unquenchable flames of attraction?

Izabel Silva is wary of men. After escaping an awful relationship and a workplace betrayal, the talented marketer seeks refuge with an old friend in small-town Montana. And though worried she’s falling in with another control-obsessed hunk, she accepts the kindly neighbors’ invitation to stay with them and their flirtatious son.

Zack MacEntier longs to live down his reputation. With his ranch’s bank accounts at rock bottom, the one-time lady’s man isn’t ready to take on a gorgeous and strong-willed Latina. But when his mother volunteers him to show the lovely newcomer around, the loyal cowboy is secretly glad of an excuse to spend more days in the fierce woman’s company.

Taken aback by local prejudice, Izabel’s concerns over Zack’s stubborn protective streak start to fade when he comes rushing to her rescue. And even as the brave rancher fears that he has nothing to offer the beautiful outsider, their growing passion has placed them firmly in danger’s crosshairs…

Can they survive the unexpected threat and claim a scorching love?

Casanova Cowboy is the steamy second book in the Montana Men romantic suspense series. If you like determined women, heroes with hidden depths, and slow-burn chemistry, then you’ll adore Jamie Schulz’s fiery path to happily ever after.

Buy Casanova Cowboy to flirt with trouble today!

* No cliffhangers. Though the stories intertwine in places, each book is a standalone suspenseful, western romance with adult content. The perfect read for fans of strong heroines, broken heroes, cowboys, horses, slow-burning love, and small-town romance!

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

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EXCERPT:

Her mind filled with thoughts, and scents, and images of this man, of Zack. She welcomed the hungry nature of his kiss and the hard strength of his body, and she wanted more.

Without breaking the kiss, she slid her hands down his chisel chest and tugged at the navy material of his T-shirt until it came free from the waistband of his jeans. Greedily, she slipped one hand inside and she groaned at the hard heat that flexed beneath her fingers. Needing to touch him, to see him, Izabel sat back and jerk the rest of his shirt from his jeans. Frantically, she pulled and pushed it upward until Zack lifted his arms and allowed her to haul the shirt over his head.

She couldn’t seem to catch her breath. The masculine beauty she’d unveiled sucked it all from her chest as her eyes took in every work-hardened crest and valley of his well-built body. The breadth of his shoulders, the thick layers of muscle that made them and his brawny arms bulge and flex when he moved. The perfect plane of his pecs and the ridges of his belly. Her nails rasped over the dusting of dark, curling hair on his chest, her fingers following its path as it narrowed into a line that disappeared under his jeans.

“Izabel?”

She looked up, startled by the strangled sound of his voice. His cheeks were flushed as his breath heaved in through parted lips, and his soulful whiskey eyes were hooded and full of passion as he stared back at her.

“You are gorgeous, Zack.”

He smiled, but when she swiveled and got to her feet, apprehension filled his face. “What are you doing?”

Reaching for the closure of her jeans, her mouth curled suggestively as she popped the button and slowly lowered the zipper.

Zack’s lips tipped up at the corners and appreciation washed over his expression.

Once she’d shed the jeans, Izabel crawled back onto his lap, but straddled his legs this time.

“Did you think I was going to leave?” she asked, flicking her nails over his nipples. Her grin grew when he sucked in a breath and his eyelids closed briefly. When they opened, he cupped her butt cheeks in each of his huge hands and drew her against the large bulge in his jeans.

“I thought so, yes.” He ducked his head and his lips found her neck. “I thought you might leave me with this,” he said as he lifted his hips and pressed himself against her core.

She moaned as he nibbled the tender column of her throat, drawing gasps of pleasure from her. When he found a sensitive spot at the base of her neck, a sharp pang of desire shot through her belly. Lust electrified her, zapping along nerve endings and driving her need for him…for Zack.

“What do you want, Izabel?” His voice sounded rough against her skin. “Tell me what you need.”

“You, Zack. I need you,” she gasped. “I want to see you. I want to feel your skin on mine. I want you to make love to me. Right now!” She reached for her blouse and quickly unbuttoned the first two buttons, but frustrated with how long it took, she reached down and yanked it over her head.

Zack’s passion-filled eyes had followed her movement, but now she sat back and watched as his gaze devoured her. From the disarray of her curly hair to her small breasts and down to the plain white bikini underwear she wore, he soaked it all in as his chest rose with each rapid breath. Slowly, almost reverently, he traced the gentle swell of her breasts above the lace edge of her bra with his fingertips. The touch sent a shiver through her body as need pulsed hot and wet between her thighs.

“Oh, God, Zack,” she cried, the ache from his simple touch so acute, she had to grip his shoulders to keep from tumbling to the ground. Her head dropped back onto her neck and she sighed. “What you do to me…”

“Tell me, goddess,” he said with a throaty growl as his hands bracketed her face and pulled her in for another soul-melting kiss.

“You’ve lit a fire inside me,” she said when he let her up for air. “You give me strength when I feel week. You make me feel strong and beautiful and wanted. You make me want…more.”

Author Bio:

Jamie Schulz lives in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her family, her husband, and their fur babies. Writing has always been a big a part of her life, and she hopes to one day reach the best sellers lists.

Cowboys, ice cream, and reading almost any kind of romance are among her (not so) secret loves. To her, every one of her stories, no matter how dark, must have a happy ending, and she strives to make them impossible to put down until you get there.

She balances her free time between reading her favorite romance authors–in genres ranging from erotica and dark romance to sweet historicals and contemporary romance–and spending time with her family.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Bookbub / Amazon

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Giveaway – Stars At Dusk by Sky Gold @XpressoTours

Posted on June 6, 2023 by fundinmental

Stars At Dusk
Sky Gold
(The Sable Riders, #2)
Publication date: April 1st 2023
Genres: Adult, Paranormal, Romance, Science Fiction

‘Your brass is ballsy, Kage Sable.’ – Harlow Meridien.

Running from her past, Harlow lives for the present. She’s sassy-smart-strong. A genius, generous, confident scientist developing a groundbreaking propulsion technology that’s attracted the attention of The Sable Group, and Kage Sable, to be exact.

He’s a master builder, an ex-warrior, a kick-ass engineer with sexy nerd energy and her new ‘boss’. His shop is responsible for an enviable fleet of high-tech corvettes, luxury flyers and racing pinnaces – helping to cement the Sable Riders’ dominance across Pegasi.

Convinced she’s the woman for him, Kage is determined to make Harlow his. He strongly believes every superwoman needs a superman. Problem is, she’s not so sure. She’s got a bad history with men. All she wants to do is focus on her work that could shift the balance of power in the Pegasi System.

She’s wary of Kage’s moxie and full-on thrust at life and love and doesn’t think she’s ready for that much intensity yet. But he slowly draws her in, one delicious moment at a time.

From subterranean speakeasies, sunken casinos and ancient ruins to fighting dens and exquisite eateries, Kage takes Harlow on dizzying flights of pure bliss across Eden II to convince her he’s light years from the ‘lame, always running game’ losers of her past. Instead, he’s a real man with strong convictions and the best intentions, who believes in an impossible love.

Together, they’ll fight for the relationship they want while keeping their top-secret breakthrough from a swarm of greedy, ruthless galactic hustlers. Together, they’ll fall into a twilight dusk of heady love and impossible starlight.

__________________________

If you’re in the mood for:

A strong, smart heroine AND a sexy, badass anti-hero

Unrequited love and personal growth sagas that span a universe

Steamy, hot epic jolts!

Paranormal action

All the feels AND heartfelt escapism

Then take to the Skies Above Eden II. A whole new world awaits you.

Goodreads / Amazon

EXCERPT

Kage pointed out iconic landmark buildings, interesting artefacts including Paladian forms, old sculptures no one knew who had created, and the Well to Hell at the centre of one of the squares. They wandered past ancient monasteries, expansive halls and packed squares, each built around a central temple dedicated to worshipping mythical Paladian gods. The architecture was otherworldly, with rocks hewn into strange forms and misshapen yet beautiful alien-like gargoyles so aged that no one knew who had created them.

The quarter bustled with life as tourists and locals wandered in and out of the iconic landmarks, where they bought Paladian-themed trinkets and artefacts.

Kage and Harlow held hands all the way, and he drew her closer at some point to avoid passing traffic. He pulled her close and slid an arm around her waist. And there it remained as they walked on.

Harlow felt deeply drawn to him, and she pulled in even closer, her arm snaking around his waist. He glanced down at her, his eyes soft, and she smiled, lost in his haze.

He lifted a hand and rubbed his thumb gently along her lips. ‘That smile again, kara,’ he rumbled.

She ducked her head shyly.

Kage, Kage, Kage.

He so resembled everything she’d longed for. He had so many qualities she’d been hoping for in a man. Yet she couldn’t entirely trust her feelings, given how much they’d led her astray in the past. Unable to deal, she pulled on his hand and dragged him into an ancient Paladian monastery.

He let her, giving her the space to gather herself. She sensed he was patiently giving her time to get used to being with him. Which she sincerely appreciated.

Author Bio:

I’m a lover of words, and consequently an author, writer and consumer of all things delicious, fun and courageously life affirming.

“Five Fun Facts” About Me:

– I’m married to a gorgeous alpha, grumpy husbeast and we’ve sired two bright, funny kids

– I live in the gorgeous sun-soaked beach haven that’s Sydney, Australia

– I love racing cars; I’m a lil’ bit of a speed demon …

– I own a grey Russian blue cat who’s an escape artist during the day and a yeller at night (sigh ..)

– I write best to music – check out the ‘Stars on Fire’ playlist on Spotify for a taste of my writing vibe 🙂

– I look to the stars themselves for my heavenly inspiration.

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Review – Confirmed Sightings: A Triple Cryptid Creature Feature by P L McMillan, Bridget D Brave & Ryan Marie Ketterer @AuthorPLM @RyanMarie47

Posted on June 5, 2023 by fundinmental

I want to thank the authors for the opportunity to read Confirmed Sightings: A Triple Cryptid Creature Feature by P L McMillan, Bridget D Brave & Ryan Marie Ketterer.

The cover spoke to me, does it speak to you?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

I love that each novella started with a full page illustration and the cover, along with Mothman set the hook. This is a different, yet the same, Mothman I have come to know, except now he is hooking up with a human, going to outer space and being involved in a murder. If you have a love of creature features, supernatural creatures or Mothman, Confirmed Sightings would be a great addition to your reading list.

A Piasa for Christmas by Bridget D Brave was a walk on the wild side. Mothman killed with impunity, bodies falling by the wayside. Kaycee was enthralled by him, but little did she know what his ultimate goal was. I almost laughed at the gruesomeness. What does that say about me? If you read it and can visualize as easily as I did, you will understand.

eyeofmoth.exe by P L McMillan was my first trip to space with Mothman. P L McMillan kept me captivated with mystery and suspense. I loved the story…and the ending…so sad, yet appropriate. Could it have ended any other way?

Once Upon A Time by Ryan Marie Ketterer is a murder mystery with so many creatures I couldn’t keep track of them all, and I couldn’t figure out who did what to who, until Ryan Marie Ketterer filled me in.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Confirmed Sightings.

AMAZON SYNOPSIS

Horror fans and cryptid lovers unite! Grab your popcorn and candy, settle into your seat, and make sure to silence your phone for this triple creature feature!

A Piasa for Christmas by Bridget D. Brave Kaycee has returned to her hometown and finally found her soulmate in the most unexpected package: a transdimensional, all-powerful creature once trapped in a temporal prison. Can true love prevail between this headstrong aspiring influencer and an ancient immortal god?

eyeofmoth.exe by P.L. McMillan When the crew of the CRS Piasa encounter a space station drowning in madness caused by a creature from Pre-Calamity Earth, they become desperate to get back to their ship and warn the Company in a race against the clock.

Once Upon a Time in Turu by Ryan Marie Ketterer When a jackalope from the good part of town ends up dead, Policefoot Orli is tasked with solving the bizarre murder before the already tense town of Turu erupts in cryptid fury. But it won’t be as easy as it looks when all the usual suspects are very unusual themselves.

With full page illustrations for each novella and a foreword by Laurel Hightower, this is one anthology you don’t want to miss.

You can see my Giveaways HERE.
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Giveaway – It Had To Be You by Tracy Solheim @XpressoTours

Posted on June 5, 2023 by fundinmental

It Had to be You
Tracy Solheim
Publication date: June 5th 2023
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

It’s hard to keep a big secret in a small town . . .

When Paige Hollister discovers her “Mr. Right” already has a “Mrs. Right,” she swears off men forever. Even more humiliating, she suddenly finds herself labeled the other woman and out of the teaching job she loves. So Paige does what every unemployed single woman staring thirty in the face does: She hightails it to the beach. Bad luck like hers is hard to outrun, however. Her getaway is stalled when her car breaks down in a small-town chock full of meddling, nosy residents. The worst of them being the local sheriff—none other than her estranged father.

Finally on top of the golf world, Tanner Gillette is poised to show everyone he’s not just an entitled playboy coasting through tournaments on his pedigree. That is until his life is turned upside down by a little girl who shows up on his doorstep with a birth certificate inexplicably bearing his name. Complicating matters more, the kid isn’t talking. When the stress of caring for a child whose mother is AWOL gives Tanner a bad case of the yips, he’s forced to enlist help from the one person in town who can’t wait to leave.

Sticking around Chances Inlet and her father’s shiny new, über-successful family isn’t on Paige’s to-do list. Especially when she’d prefer to keep her embarrassing incident under wraps. Yet she can’t walk away from the troubled little girl. Or the sexy Australian golfer who just might make her want to take a chance on trusting her heart again.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

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EXCERPT:

She snatched up one of the beach-reads she’d brought from home. The well-worn paperback was one of her “comfort” books. Part of a Victorian era romance series featuring a group of wallflowers trying to find love. The familiar words kept swimming on the page, however, before Paige finally slammed it closed.

“There’s more to life than finding a man, sister,” Paige mumbled. Sighing heavily, she smacked her head against the pillows. “Yet another thing Jon ruined for me. Romance novels.”

She was about to reach for the TV remote when a sound from Whitney’s room caught her attention. Flipping back the covers, she listened intently for it to come again.

“It was probably something outside,” she told herself.

Except it wasn’t. Whitney was crying out in her sleep. And it sounded like she was calling for her mother. Paige raced through the bathroom and into the adjoining bedroom. Whitney was tossing and turning as sobs wracked her small body. As sweet as it was to finally hear the girl’s voice, Paige was devastated by her cries.

“Shh.” Paige crawled into the bed, gathering Whitney up beside her. “Shh,” she repeated. “Everything is going to be okay. You’re safe. I’m here.”

Whitney’s gulping sobs eventually subsided. She curled against Paige, remarkably, still fast asleep. Paige rubbed the girl’s back, softly whispering reassurances. She wiped Whitney’s tear-stained cheeks with the sheet. Within minutes, the child was sleeping peacefully.

A noise in the doorway alerted Paige they were not alone. She looked up to see a shadow of a man illuminated by the hallway lights. After resettling Gladys in Whitney’s arms, Paige replaced her own body with a pillow. She waited a moment to make sure Whitney was settled before slipping out into the hallway where Tanner waited.

A shirtless Tanner.

“She okay?” he whispered.

Paige picked a spot beyond his muscled shoulder where she could fix her gaze to avoid openly drooling at the man.

“Mmhmm,” she answered with a nod.

He took a step closer. “Are you okay?”

She wanted to be blasé and mature, but she wasn’t that skilled at playing it cool. The man’s chest was a freaking work of art. And who knew golfers had six-pack abs? Weren’t they supposed to be pot-bellied or some damn thing? It was the trail of dark hair disappearing beneath his flannel joggers that sent her over the edge.

“Could you—” She wiggled her fingers in the direction of his chest. “Could you cover that up, please?”

He looked at her as though she’d just asked him to shoot a hole-in-one on the moon. Then he chuckled sadistically before turning on his heel and padding down the long hallway leading to his bedroom.

“Water.” Paige fanned herself. “I need some water.”

Hurrying to the kitchen, she filled a glass using the dispenser on the refrigerator door. She was gulping down its contents when Tanner reappeared. Thankfully, he was wearing a T-shirt with what looked like German writing on it. A pair of sheepskin moccasins covered his feet.

“I’ve got something stronger in my study,” he said when he walked past, presumably on his way there.

A smarter woman would have returned to her bed and listened for signs Whitney might be having another nightmare.

Author Bio:

USA Today bestselling author Tracy Solheim writes books with shirtless men on the cover. Some of them are actually best-sellers. The books, not the men. When she’s not writing, she’s practicing her curling. . . bottles of wine, that is. She’s been known to cook dinner but no more than two nights in a row. Most days, she’d rather be reading, which to her is just necessary research. She lives in the suburbs of Atlanta with her husband and a neurotic Labrador retriever. Her two adult children visit but not often enough. (See the note above about cooking.) Check out her romantic suspense series featuring the Men of the Secret Service–shirtless, of course! See what she’s up to at www.tracysolheim.com

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

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