Tink's Place

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 78

2012-01-30T04:00:00.003-06:00

Good Monday Morning Flash Fiction Aficionados!!

Well, I certainly hope this week is better than last! (Let's start by hoping this posts on time Monday Morning... unlike last week...)

It's Monday morning, so that MUST mean it's time for a new challenge in the....

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge!!

I hope everyone's been enjoying the lovely images that we have recently. Linda (aka the lovely Blodeuedd) has been diligent in finding us new, different, beautiful images. And this morning images is another of her wonderful finds.

It's beautiful, otherworldly, ethereal... I hope it excites your imagination!!

The rules remain the same, 350 words or somewhere there abouts, and come back Friday to post your response.

Have a great week!!

Key to the Cursed.... Hot New Book Trailer!

2012-01-29T12:09:00.002-06:00

Check out Jean Murray's hot new book trailer for her Key to the Cursed Series from Crescent Moon Press. Awesomeness!

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo

2012-01-25T01:00:00.003-06:00

Starring: Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, Stellan Skarsgård, Christopher Plummer
Director: David Fincher
Running Time: 160 minutes

Synopsis: (from the book cover)

A spellbinding amalgam of murder mystery, family saga, love story, and financial intrigue.

It’s about the disappearance forty years ago of Harriet Vanger, a young scion of one of the wealthiest families in Sweden . . . and about her octogenarian uncle, determined to know the truth about what he believes was her murder.

It’s about Mikael Blomkvist, a crusading journalist recently at the wrong end of a libel case, hired to get to the bottom of Harriet’s disappearance . . . and about Lisbeth Salander, a twenty-four-year-old pierced and tattooed genius hacker possessed of the hard-earned wisdom of someone twice her age—and a terrifying capacity for ruthlessness to go with it—who assists Blomkvist with the investigation. This unlikely team discovers a vein of nearly unfathomable iniquity running through the Vanger family, astonishing corruption in the highest echelons of Swedish industrialism—and an unexpected connection between themselves.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo brings to life Steig Larsson's first book of his masterful Millennium trilogy. As the movie opens, Led Zeppelin's Immigrant Song (performed by Karen O) screams into the theater, setting the pace and tone for the film. It flashes in pieces and tidbits, exciting the viewer, drawing you in tighter, as it explodes across the big screen.

Mikael Blomkvist (Daniel Craig) is a disgraced journalist caught in the trap of a scheming businessman/millionaire, Hans-Erik Wennerström (Ulf Friberg), literally robbed of his career. When Henrik Vanger (Christopher Plummer) decides to hire someone to do what he has been unable to do and needs to finish before his demise, he looks to Mikael to accomplish the daunting task, to find the murderer of his niece, Harriet Vanger (Moa Garpendal).

She went missing 40 years prior after attending a children's festival. I say it is a daunting task because all the information is 40 years old, as are the pictures, recollections, police investigation. And Henrik is sure the murderer is a close family member.

Which leads us to the mysterious island of the Vanger family stronghold, Hedeby Island. It's where all (almost all) the Vangers live in relative peace, meaning they stay away from each other. Distrust runs rampant.

During World War II, the Vangers were known for the Nazi leanings, two of the three brother were Nazi sympathizers (Gottfried {Jürgen Klein} and Harald {Per Myrberg}), though Gottfried drowns himself in a drunken fall before Harriet's (his daughter) disappearance. Henrik is disdainful of his brothers, though with the disappearance of his niece, he has but little choice other than his nephew, Martin Vanger (Stellan Skarsgård) to operate the family business which interests are wide and varied.

Mikael's task seems insurmountable, and he asked for the use of an assistant/investigator which the family lawyer Dirch Frode (Steven Berkoff) readily provides, Lisbeth Salander (Rooney Mara) a twenty-three year old ward of the state, currently being abused by newly assigned legal guardian, Nils Bjurman (Yorick van Wageningen).

She's a pierced, tattooed hacker/investigator known for her rough lifestyle and antisocial behavior, and admittedly, she has little reason to trust. Lisbeth is also a little lost, looking for an anchor, one she thinks she's found in Mikael. Together Mikael and Lisbeth piece together what might have happened, only to have reality slap them in the face, very much alive, in the here and now, and murdering still. Not everyone is who she or he appears to be, and the mystery grows.

One of the powerful lines in the movie, "I want you to help me catch the killer of women."

It will take all the skills of the rogue journalist and tattooed investigator to stay alive.

This is an amazing film that grips the viewer with the onslaught of images in the opening credits to the end of the wild ride of the movie. Twists and turns abound, danger lurks around every corner. I've read that the Sweden movie did better justice to the book, and I haven't seen the 2009 Swedish made film (but I want too). With all that said, Rooney Mara plays Lisbeth Salander, the socially different, outcast survivor to perfection and Daniel Craig (famed 007) plays Mikael Blomkvist with just the right amounts of human need, disillusionment, and vengeance. If you haven't seen this movie, it's high on my recommend list, one I'd like to see again, as well as the 2009 English captioned Swedish film of the same name, The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. It's a rock em, sock em, roller coaster ride. One of the best films I've seen (and I watch a lot of movies!).

Five out of Five Fairy Kisses (tempted to add 5 more!)

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 77... (The Tuesday Edition)

2012-01-24T13:02:00.001-06:00

Good Tuesday Morning (Afternoon)!! (Thanks B for letting me know...lol)

I've been such a bad blogger... I have a head cold and it's KILLING me.. lol. I had a post scheduled for Monday, and I didn't even check to see if it posted... I'm slipping bad...

So, here's yesterday's post today..

Good Monday Morning!

I'm going to get right to it this morning... It's time for another edition of Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge!!

This morning's image is another I found while creeping through deviant art/fantasy pages.... hope you all enjoy it!

Definitely warrior-ish... I wonder what it will lead too? I also wonder why guy warriors never have THEIR chest exposed, lol!! But, it's too good to pass up (just cos I gotta problem with less armor, maybe in my story... she'll pull on a chest plate of some kind.... but then again... maybe not).

Hope everyone enjoys it and we have some fantastic flash!!

Have a great week!

Ciao bella!!

Deliverance, Mortal Path, Book 3 by Dakota Banks

2012-01-22T05:29:00.004-06:00

Publisher: Harper Voyager / Harper-Collins
Pages: 304

(Release Date: March 27, 2012)

From the Cover:

“A gut-kick of a read, with non-stop action and as inventive a world as I’ve ever seen.”
—Vicki Pettersson, New York Times bestselling author of the Signs of the Zodiac series

“Great characters who jump from the page; a smart, layered plot, and pacing that screams. This is the kind of book that makes you look forward to a rainy day.”
—John Gilstrap, author of Nathan’s Run

“Readers…will devour Banks’s clever and compelling Mortal Path series. Assassins, demons, and danger, oh my!”
—Lisa Gardner, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Love You More

Dakota Banks has taken the supernatural thriller and given it a breathtaking new twist! Deliverance is the third book in Banks’s relentlessly exciting urban fantasy series, Mortal Path, featuring heroine Maliha Crayne, once a demon’s henchwoman and paranormal assassin now determined to atone for her centuries of murderous acts. A cross between Tomb Raider’s Lara Croft and Marvel Comics’s Elektra, Maliha finds her powers are rapidly fading in Deliverance, and discovers that her quest to avoid eternal damnation has put those she loves most in gravest peril. Banks’s Deliverance delivers suspense and edge-of-your-seat adventure—a non-stop paranormal roller coaster ride that fans of Jeaniene Frost, James Rollins, Vicki Pettersson, and Indiana Jones, won’t want to miss.

It will be another rockin rollin thrill ride from Dakota Banks and my favorite heroine, Maliha Crayne... a kick-ass ex-assassin, bent on reclaiming her soul. Can't wait to see what happens!!

I have to say, Dakota is blessed with some of the best cover art... I'm loving these covers!!

Black Fang by Susan Blexrud

2012-01-19T01:30:00.002-06:00

Publisher: DCL Publications
Pages: 45

(Released: August 17, 2011)

From the Cover:

Someone is deliberately infecting bats with a deadly fungus. The flying mammals are dying by the thousands, and along with them, a significant number of vampires in bat form have also succumbed.

Enter John and Lauren Wright. The vampire couple has conquered evil enemies in the past, but the perpetrator behind the bat deaths is more cunning than any they’ve encountered. Though John initially suspects that werewolves are the culprits, he discovers he is up against a colony of Unseelie faeries. The intoxicating scent of the faeries has been known to deceive vampires, pitting friend against friend—and wife against husband.

When a good friend flies into John's house, dying from fungus poisoning known as white nose syndrome, John makes it his business to find out what's going on. The vampires are falling as quickly as their little furry friends, and it has to stop.

To find out, he'll have to go bat himself. He suspects the weres, but after investigating, it appears to have a fey connection. When his wife, Lauren gets suck into a fairy mound, he'll have to try something new and hope it works, or she'll forget him and their daughter forever.

Black Fang is an excellent tidbit of a read from Susan Blexrud. She gives us characters that while preternatural are all too human, with just enough humor to give the reader a few chuckles too. I very much enjoyed this new addition to her Love Fang books. Just what I needed between reads and after NaNoWriMo, the perfect little getaway, the perfect change of pace even if only for a few moments. Five out of five fairy kisses for this reader.

I received this book from the author, because that's just how she rolls (and besides, I had to read.... there were fairies involved....). Thanks Susan!! All opinions expressed are my own.

Dealers of Light by Lara Nance

2012-01-17T02:00:00.004-06:00

Publisher: Crescent Moon Press
Pages: 336

(Released: August 19, 2011)

From the Cover:

A malevolent group of Light-Dealers have surfaced in Cara Collin's hometown of Norfolk, Virginia. Led by an ancient Aztec demon, the "Takers" are torturing and murdering their way to world domination. As the horror spreads, Cara-who has the ability to send "Light" into others to augment healing-receives a special power from a patient making her a crucial weapon in stopping the Takers. But, she must figure out how to use the gift before the Takers make her their next target.

When mysterious Rolf Van Harding shows up in town with information that may help her, she's torn between joining his quest and running for her life. When she discovers he's a powerful, ancient Light-Dealer she fears their growing passion will be a weakness-a weakness that could allow the Takers to murder the last remaining Light-Dealer capable of stopping them.

Cara Collins has been a healer her whole life, she knows no other way to be. She's part of a group of Dealers who support and help each other, and when possible, save each other.

When someone comes into her clinic sick or injured, Cara locates their portal and gives part of her inner Light to strength and support the person in need. A young woman, Nicki, comes into her clinic, claiming to have seen some kind of vampiric suctioning of another and Cara doesn't know what to make of it. But on her heals, Emmie comes into her clinic, claiming she's ready to meet her maker. She only came to share her gift, and Cara will need it, if she's to survive what's coming. Mystery engulfs her. Emmie won't accept Cara's healing light, and imparts what she has held within herself, dying in front of Cara's eyes.

Rolf Van Harding strolls into Cara's life, searching for the Takers, corrupted Dealer who have become addicted to the taking of Light. It's everything that goes against what Cara has done with her life, it sickens her to know that instead of helping others, these Takers are stealing Light from their victims. The individuals are mainlining the Light of others, drinking them dry, leaving a husk of a body behind, no visible signs of injury. But, Rolf knows different. He's spent his ancient existence killing the Takers, and now he fears that his greatest enemy has found a home in Atlanta.

When Rolf meets Cara, it's like rediscovering his heart. Emotions that he thought to be long dead, stir to life. Together they discover a bond, the ability to link together. And it might be the Dealers only saving grace.

Dealers of Light by Lara Nance is an sweet paranormal romance. Rolf is a strong alpha male who lost his mate many centuries ago. He's an immortal, his existence has become finding and killing the Takers, the ones responsible for his mate's death. When he stumbles across Cara, there's something about her that brings him to life, makes him want to care again, to live again. What Cara sees in Rolf's eyes is a longing for something more, if only he'll let her be that something more. Until finding Cara, Rolf has been looking for a way to leave life behind. It almost takes her loss for him to discover the depths of his feelings. Now, together, they must protect their small group, because they're the only thing standing between the eventually conquering of humanity and the Takers who are determined to take it all.

Dealers of Light is an unique story, combining ancient myths and modern times. Dealers takes place in Atlanta, though Rolf is from ancient Egypt. But, it is only with his help that Cara and her group can figure out what happening around them. And Rolf needs Cara and her group help if he's going to thwart an ancient evil, almost as old as he is, a demon and his greatest enemy. Dealers is a story of a love reborn, through great time and distance, Rolf learns to love again. And isn't that the best kind of love story there is? This feels like the beginning of a series, and I hope we see more of the wonderful cast of characters Lara Nance has created. The love story between Cara and Rolf is just building, and it's going to be great. I'd love to see more of their life together, and hope to in the future. I highly recommend this sweet paranormal romance (with one scorching love scene) to all lovers of romance, paranormal or not. It's a love story that build across the centuries to find a home with Cara, and with Rolf. I very much enjoyed Dealers of Light, the only thing I could have asked for more of was the hot romance building between Cara and Rolf... but maybe in the next book?? Five out of five fairy kisses for this reader.

I received my copy for review from the author, Lara Nance. All opinions expressed are my own.

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 76

2012-01-16T07:00:00.008-06:00

Good Monday Morning!! (and Happy Birthday Martin Luther King!! One of my personal heroes)

Soooo.... this promises to be a busy week. But, everyone is back to school and work, which is a relief. And everyone is settling back into their routines. But, anyway, it's Monday, so it's time for another challenge. I hope everyone is enjoying the images!!

This morning's image in one I found on the internet while stumbling through fantasy sites. I have no idea who the authors are, but they're pretty sweet!! Enjoy!!

I don't believe we'd have anything similar to this image for a long time. I've been trying to find some different images, and I think this one is certainly different, lol.... and I can't wait to see what everyone comes up with.... I think I already know which way I'm going to go.... yeah, I have some good ideas.

Have a great week everyone!!

Ciao!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 75.... The Friday Post

2012-01-13T13:53:00.000-06:00

It's been another loooong week here at Taylor ranchero..... yes, it's been that kind of week.... *sigh*

Without further ado or circumstance... The Friday Post...

And the lovely image provided by Ana!!

Of Fae and Men

by Dottie Taylor

word count: 610

Galen moved with the big cat, his eyes reflected the panther's. It's hunger, it's need. When it roared into the blackness of the night, he felt his own vocal cords stir with the rumble of a growl.

“Where is she?” Galen gazed down the corridor of darkness, the panther glanced back. “Come, my pet.” And the cat turned at his words, and slinked back to his side. “Maybe another night, hmm?” His hand found the thick fur between the big cat's ears, and rubbed it's silken softness. “Another night.” His eyes glowed like the cat's, and again he growled.

Together, the man and beast strolled through the streets, the cat's nostril quivered with a scent, but not the one they sought the most. Her scent, her heat. Suddenly, the cat's head swiveled around, a shadow followed. Galen reached down, and stroked it's fur. “I know, my friend, we're being followed.” The cat growled deep in it's throat. The only sound that echoed in the night was the click of powerful nails and the soft footfalls of Galen's leathered souls. Whatever followed was silent as death.

They rounded a dark corner, and waited, man and beast, breath held. Their helpless prey continued, stumbling into their shadows with a small yelp. It was a woman, but not the one they searched for, it was another. But, maybe, she would do.

The big cat roared back, and the woman brought her hands up to cover her face. “Please, sir!” She begged even as she imagined the claws of the beast burrowing through her flesh. “Please, I've been told only you can help.”

“Blackspell, calm yourself, you're frightening our young charge.” Galen smiled at the cat, and it snarled back, a great tongue swiped across it's piercing fangs. The young woman shivered, maybe this wasn't such a good idea after all.

Galen bowed and offered his hand, “Galen Reunalt. And you are?”

She curtsied, and offered her own. “Lisbeth Rigley, and I've been told you help those in need.”

“And who would have presumed to tell you that?” He asked irritation in his voice.

“Sir, it is common knowledge.” She replied, stepping into the light.

Galen's heart stopped, before his stood an exact duplicate of the woman he searched for, only younger, and he inhaled, sweeter. He peered carefully into her bright blue eyes, and purer, no infection of the darkness whatsoever.

“Who are you, my dear?” He questioned again, circling her body.

“Mademoiselle Elizabeth Marie Rigley, Monsieur.” She returned, “and I think you know my mother.”

Galen let out the breath he'd been holding. So, the woman had a daughter? Letting her roam the streets was a foolish mistake. “Many search for her, the Fae aren't known for taking prisoners.” He scowled, “What do you think you're doing out here, and alone?”

“Same as you, I imagine, sir. Searching for my mother. She must be found, as you say, the Fae take no prisoners.”

Again he scowled, the silly young thing was going to get herself killed or worst, mistaken for her mother. Her bounty was high, set by the Unseelie King himself. “You'll not find her this way.” He growled, and the big cat growled too.

“Ah, but you will, won't you sir? It's imperative I find her, she's holding the secret to my brother's release.” She sighed, Lord Galen was her last hope.

“There's more of you?” He shook his head, not believing his ears.

“Yes sir. And if she doesn't return what was stolen, his life is forfeit.”

Well.... that's all I have for today.... tune in again Monday morning, same bat time, same bat channel for another edition of......

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge!!!

Ciao bella!!

Have a great weekend!!

The Star-Crossed Saga: Protostar by Braxton A. Cosby

2012-01-10T08:00:00.001-06:00

Publisher: Firefly Publishing
Pages: 378

(Released: September 25, 2011)

From the Cover:

It Starts With Choice! What would you choose: love or irrefutable duty?

On the brink of Civil War, the Torrian Alliance continues with its mission to obliterate Star-children across the universe in order to suppress an intergalactic evil. Following the recommendations of his Council, King Gregorio Derry has agreed to send his only son on a mission to restore honor to his family. Bounty Hunter Prince William Derry has crossed thousands of light-years to planet Earth in order to fulfill this age old prophetic practice.

The quiet days of Madisonburg, Tennessee are officially over as Sydney Elaine now knows the full meaning of the phrase 'Be careful what you wish for' when she is confronted by this strange visitor. As an unforeseeable event delays his assassination, William decides to study his target more closely and begins to form a 'connection' with Sydney that challenges his inner being. But this conflict is the least of his problems, as a conspiracy back on his home planet Fabricius threatens the lives of those he loves and his father's royal legacy.

Along with that, he must unravel a hidden menace on Earth that threatens both his and Sydney's safety. Will William be able to complete his mission or will he choose love, sacrificing everything he stands for?

Sydney Elaine is just a small town girl waiting for life to start. Will she find love? Can she with any of the boys she's known her whole life? Then the earthquake happens, and strange things follow... like her grandmother taking in a strange boy stranded by a car accident. But, where are the friends he's supposed to have? Why don't they come back for him?

William Derry is from a distant star system and a bounty hunter sent to kill the star child. When his craft folds space, the Earth is shaken, and the small town of Madisonburg, Tennessee is rocked by the quake. When he shows up on Sydney's doorstep, she's instantly aware of him, even if his story sounds a little fishy.... I mean who ends up abandon by friends on a mountain road, without a cell phone or a change of clothes?

William finds himself attracted to the magnetic Sydney, with her internal warmth and humanity, both of which he has seldom experienced. Sydney also suffers from attraction, even if she shouldn't be.

Protostar by Braxton A. Cosby is a unique telling of star crossed lovers, separated by the wide expanse of space. When William finds Sydney, he becomes addicted to the star power that rests within her body, waiting to be discovered. It's warmth like he's never experience before. But, if he fails in his mission to kill the star child, he'll bring disgrace upon his family. It becomes an internal battle, torn between duty and desire. Sydney knows William is different, but she can't figure out how, and she wouldn't believe it anyway, until the dreams start. Could William be her destiny?

Protostar has loads of possibilities. It has an excellent storyline, characters that you want to get to know. But, there's also the trap that many new writers fall into, the curse of telling instead of showing. When I read a story, especially science fiction/fantasy, I want to feel the rumble of the engines vibrating beneath my feet as the craft roars through the soundless expanse of space. I don't need to know that the hull is white and the ship is an elongated shape of one kind or another, or the diameter, the internal workings. Let that come about through how someone else sees the craft, when someone else touches it icy exterior. If a character cries with the loss of a love, I want to feel the sadness. Telling slows the story down when it should be fast paced, as when the ship tears through space, folding it, shaking buildings apart the Earth's surface. I want to have to side step the rubble as it falls above my head. That's what this story is missing, as well as some addition editing to catch a few spelling errors, misuse of words, and grammatical errors. Also, this is a YA book (I read tons of YA), but the language felt somewhat stilted, unnatural, forced. I could see why William's speech patterns would have been stilted, he's an alien trying to fit in, but Sydney's speech pattern could be more natural, more teen like (not teen speak though, it ends up not sounding right) and toss away the thesaurus, the story will be better for it. I found myself trying to skim the first part of the story, or every time there was an over share of information, but I was afraid I'd miss a vital bit of information. It made the story slow reading, at least for this reviewer. See Amazon for more reviews. I think Braxton Cosby came up with a winner as far as the storyline goes, the cover art is beautifully eye catching and relates directly to the star child's story and the space hunters sent to find her. I'll look forward to the next in the series, but I do encourage additional editing. This could be a fantastic tale! Three out of five fairy kisses for this reader.

I received my review copy from the author, Braxton Cosby. A big thank you to Braxton!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 75

2012-01-09T17:36:00.000-06:00

Good Afternoon to all the Flash Fictioneers out in the blogosphere!!

It's been a looooog day. Dealing with college issues for the kids. I just want to let everyone out there with kids know.... it doesn't get any easier as they grow up. It only gets more expensive, time consuming, and demanding.... It's been a rough day at the Taylor household. I knew it was going to be a rough first year of college for my daughter. I'm cringing, waiting to reality to strike. I don't want to be here when the bomb explodes, lol.

But, anyway, it's Monday, and time for a new challenge (I'll also have more time to do the challenges myself... EVERYONE goes back to school tomorrow....YAY!!!!! I never knew it would be this stressful to have a kid in college. Neither of my sons are this much work....) The Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge... that is!!

Today's images comes from the lovely Ana.... it's a beautiful image, thought provoking. I don't use a lot of images with animals in them... don't know why, but this one is too beautiful to pass up!!

So have fun!! I have a bunch of flashes to post, so, I'll try to sprinkle them in throughout the week... if I have enough time. Please to the powers that be..... I don't need another day like today!

The rules remain the same 350 words and come back Friday to share your flash!!!

Have fun my friends!!

Ciao!!!

Centauri 2: Centauri Twilight by Cynthia Woolf

2012-01-04T20:00:00.009-06:00

Publisher: Cynthia Woolf/Smashwords
Pages: 158

Lara Danexx suffered years of torment at the hands of the evil and twisted Ranzon Slavarien. But she escaped and raised an army of rebels to destroy him. Victory is within her grasp when an unwelcome intruder hunts her down and spins wild tales of her lost family and royal blood. This arrogant invader stirs her long dead emotions and threatens to ruin all of her plans. She can’t allow herself to desire his touch, or believe his lies…too much is at stake.

General Anton Coridian gave his word that he would find his beloved queen’s long lost sister, Princess Jondalara. He expects a pampered princess. Instead he finds a guerilla leader with an army of loyal cut-throats and rogues at her back. Every instinct he has demands that she is his lifemate and he must steal her away to safety. But the dark determination and pain in her eyes reminds him of his own tortured past. She offers him redemption and the chance to right an unspeakable wrong. Destiny must be laughing, because now he’s fallen in love with a woman who will stop at nothing to free her people…even if it means sacrificing herself. Anton is determined to join her, both in bed and in battle. Now he must convince Lara that his love can save not just her life, but her battered heart.

General Anton Coridian has suffered at the hands of the Centauri mortal enemy, the Slavarien family. The cruel society perpetuated by the elder Thoriz Slavarien, their leader and master of his sons. Slavers in the true sense of the word. Everyone conquered by them are leashed, treated like animals, displayed to keep the general citizenry compliant and dominated. He was beaten and tortured almost to the point of death before his escape was made with the help of his queen and one time fiance. Though his body is healed, his mind is still suffering, bent to the point of breaking. Only the need to find his queen's sister and vengeance holds him together. He has refused the help of healers, his pain is his own, private.

Lara Danexx was abandoned by her family or that's the story she been led to believe since the death of her uncle and protector. She has suffered a far worse fate than just beating and torturing, her body has been used and abuse by Ranzon Slavarien, and he was taught by the best, Thoriz. And, she's the only woman to escape from Ranzon's captivity. She has raised a small band of followers, vowing to take the lives of Thoriz and Ranzon for their cruel treatmeant not only of her, but to all those they touch. She can almost see victory within her grasp when General Anton Coridian steps into her life with lies of a family who has been searching for her, who want her back, who need her. She won't be dissuaded.

Anton has made promises and plans to keep him, first to his queen, then to the Slavariens. Without Lara, the darkness will take him. Anton and Lara have the ability to heal each other as well as seek their vengeance, but will they? Can they? Can they learn to trust, even as a lifemate?

Centauri Twilight by Cynthia Woolf is a futuristic space scifi paranormal romance. It's set in a world where the cruel Slavariens control the fate of a world, their captivities used until death takes them. It's Lara's leadership of a small ban of rebels that provides the only hope. When Anton threatens to take her away from her vengeance, she rebels. Her emotions long dead from abuse, her heart frozen with the need to take the Slavariens from power. Anton also needs to heal his emotions, he needs a balm to salve his rawness. Lara could be that balm, if she'll let herself, if she can start to feel again. But, neither will truly rest until Thoriz Slavarien has either been captured or killed. When they finally come together, even on Lara's limited terms of need, sparks fly, and if Lara will allow it, love will grow.

Centauri Twilight has the makings of an excellent paranormal romance, and with a little growth and editing to mesh the pieces together to perfection, it will be. I am an early reader of this book, and was offered this book as a consolation prize for a contest held by Ms. Woolf and Jean Murray, before it's release in October 2011. I had already read Ms. Murray wonderful book, Soul Reborn. This is the third self published release from Cynthia Woolf, and she has potential. The big thing, and this is terribly hard for a self published author, is to show instead of tell. Cynthia does this pretty well, and with a little more development, she'll have a winner. I like the cover art on the first book of this series better, so that's something I would work too. Remember, cover art helps sell the story, the blurb is a fantastic synopsis, excellently told for this story. It's a wonderful story of the wound tortured hero, and a heroine who has suffered as well (I loved it), and it's created a hard protective shell that heroine hides inside, refusing the love that could save her. The story of need and desire of this pairing is great. I'll keep watching this author to see how she grows and what she gives us next.

Three and a half fairy kisses for this reader (and I'm leaning toward four).

I received my copy as a consolation prize (I already owned Soul Reborn). I happily read and reviewed, excellent attempt by this emerging author.

Promo ~ Marissa Meyer's The Lunar Chronicles...Cinder

2012-01-04T09:20:00.001-06:00

Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Pages: 387

(Released: January 3, 2012)

From the Cover:

Even in the future, the story begins with Once Upon a Time….

Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth's fate hinges on one girl. . . .

Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She's a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister's illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai's, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world's future.

This one of my most anticipated reads for 2012!! I freaking love the cover!

Marissa Meyer's website, here.... Facebook Fan Page, here.... and Twitter, here.

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 74

2012-01-02T08:23:00.011-06:00

I don't believe this, I'm actually posting this on Monday morning... miracles will never cease to exist... lol

I've have a couple of flashes written, but honestly, I've been so busy trying to catch up from NaNoWriMo and Christmas.... I had to write FIVE freaking reviews this weekend. One more to go and about 50 books to read and I'll finally be up to date... sigh... And still editing this years NaNo MS. The story continues to draw me, though a few places still have a little drag (how to pep up??? I hate it when the story drags).

Anyway, it's time for another Monday edition of..... (if it posts correctly... is anyone else struggling with blogger??? It's really starting to tick me off!) Addendum: The freaking post didn't post at all!!! RRRR!! But, I checked it and I'm able to at least post manually... Some days... oh well...

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge!!!

This weeks images comes to us from the lovely Blodeudd!! It's different from what we've had lately, I hope everyone enjoys it. I might struggle to write for this one *chews fingernail* but I'm going to give it a try!!

It's so interesting, and I really want to know her story. Is she at war, leaving home, just returning?? Lots of possibilities here!!

The rules remain the same, somewhere around 350 words, and come back Friday to post your response. But most of all, have fun!! As the fabulous Henri Matisse said "Creativity takes courage." Lets make this a courageous year!!

Ciao!!

Happy New Year 2012

2012-01-01T17:25:00.000-06:00

From Tink and Me to the Blogosphere.....

Have a wonderfully fabulous New Year!!!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 73 (the Tuesday edition)

2011-12-27T09:37:00.001-06:00

Good Tuesday Morning!!

I was so busy yesterday with the Christmas clean up... it always looks like a bomb has exploded the day after Christmas... that I forgot to post yesterday. So sorry, and today with all the kids home and the hubs on vacation... I need to do another clean up, before I got started I wanted to post this week's flash, later today I'll post my response to last week's, it's been way hectic here lately, I've written it but never had a chance to post.

This week's image was one I found while surfing, and it felt alive, but anguished.

Feels like the tree is bent with pain, at least to me, so I'm anxious to see how everyone else interprets it.

The rules remain the same.... somewhere around 350 words and come back Friday to post your response. Have fun and let you creative juices flow!

Now, back to house cleaning..... *le sigh* I need a maid.

Promo ~ Amanda Hocking's Switched, Book 1 of the Trylle Trilogy

2011-12-22T15:29:00.001-06:00

As many of you may remember, I discovered Amanda Hocking's books last winter and decided to give them a try. I can't rave enough about her talent! St. Martin's Press is re-releasing her Trylle trilogy with new bonus material, and I can't wait to see the changes! The new cover art is gorgeous!!

(Release Date: January 3, 2012)

From the Cover:

Amanda Hocking is an indie publishing sensation whose self-published novels have sold millions of copies all over the world. Switched is the book that started the phenomenon. Prepare to be enchanted….

When Wendy Everly was six years old, her mother was convinced she was a monster and tried to kill her. Eleven years later, Wendy discovers her mother might have been right. She’s not the person she’s always believed herself to be, and her whole life begins to unravel—all because of Finn Holmes.

Finn is a mysterious guy who always seems to be watching her. Every encounter leaves her deeply shaken…though it has more to do with her fierce attraction to him than she’d ever admit. But it isn’t long before he reveals the truth: Wendy is a changeling who was switched at birth—and he’s come to take her home.

Now Wendy’s about to journey to a magical world she never knew existed, one that’s both beautiful and frightening. And where she must leave her old life behind to discover who she’s meant to become…

As a special gift to readers, this book contains a new, never-before-published bonus story, “The Vittra Attacks,” set in the magical world of the Trylle.

Here's a gander at her new book trailer.....

Can't wait to see Torn and Ascend (Book 2 and 3 in the Trylle Trilogy)!!

(Release Date: February 28, 2011)

(Release Date: April 24, 2012)

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 72

2011-12-19T03:43:00.001-06:00

Good Monday Morning!

I hope everyone had a splendid weekend! Me, I finally forced myself to start Christmas shopping... while there weren't a lot of crowds, anywhere.... There was also a limited selection. Which brings me to the wonderful world of gift cards. I promise to start earlier next year....

So... since it was an epic fail at shopping, I might as well do the Monday Morning Challenge, right? I hope everyone finds time to participate. It's Christmas this weekend, so I'll understand if some have to take a pass. I'm going to try to find time.

Around Christmas time, I try to find an image that both makes me think of Christmas as well as capture the feeling of mystery that I attached of the holiday. I mean, what's more mysterious than a man in suit who travels all over the world a the stroke of midnight to touch each life residing on Earth? Along with the past and the future?

This year I chose something that gives the lingering feeling of Christmas, but also that desolate feeling of aloneness.... lost in a winter wonderland. It can mean anything to anyone. Maybe it's the long journey home for the holiday, maybe it's a holiday to be celebrated in lonilness, and maybe it's that first snowfall on Christmas, and you're the very first person to leave footprints in it, the very first person to lay in the snow and make a snow angel. Maybe you're a child gazing from a frost window out at the wonder of the new fallen snow. Or maybe it's something sinister.... It can be anything.......

The rules remain the same 350 words (or there about) and come back Friday to post a response.

I'm truly enthrall with the image, but it doesn't mean it will be easy to write for. After all, I have to challenge myself too....

Everyone have a great week, and if I don't heard from you before Christmas... Have A Merry One!!

(((hugs and be blessed)))

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 71.... The Friday Post

2011-12-16T05:02:00.000-06:00

I haven't had time to do a flash in ages it feels like, but this week is different! Since NaNoWriMo is finished, and editing is all I want to do, I'm making myself leave the story alone. I've read a couple of books and a couple of short stories that I'll be reviewing soon. I've really fallen behind with NaNo eating up so much time!! But, I hope I'm back to my regular blogging schedule.

I loved this image, and immediately knew what I wanted to write. I hope everyone enjoyed it as much as I did. Here's another peek at it! (and my flash that goes along with it....)

The Guardian

by Dottie Taylor

word count: 618

Nia balanced on the balls of her feet, it didn't help that two freaking wings had suddenly sprouted from her back. How did that happen? Why did that happen?

Ian turned, his eyes wide. “Do you know....?” He gestured over his shoulder, his eyes taking in the wings as they stretched themselves to their full length.

Nia looked at him like he'd grown a second head. “Of course I know!” She nearly shouted, as she tried not to lose her balance, attempted to fold them away. She just couldn't figured out how the make the stupid things work.

Ian circled her body, reached out a hand to stroke the softness of the long white feathers. “They're beautiful.” He whispered, his hands skimmed over the tops, across the bony structure, to their velvety tips. “Wow.” He circled around to face her. “What are you?”

“Cripes Ian, I'm the same person I was a few minutes ago!” She frowned at him, shooting daggers from her eyes.

“Come on Nia, regular people don't have wings growing out of their backs.” He stepped away. Awe colored his features. “You're like one of those guardian angels....” he said softly.

“I am not!!” She replied crossly. “Do something constructive, help me see if I can make them go away!” She twisted around, trying to find a way to make the blasted things disappear as easily as they appeared.

She turned back to face him. “Well, are you going to help?”

Ian's face held a blank stare, his eyes lost their focus, and he slumped to the ground.

“Ian!” She raced to his side to find a blossoming crimson stain covered the back of his shirt. “Oh Ian!” She cried, his life's blood covered her shaking hands, tears glistened on her cheeks.

She caught a glimpse of a shadow rising behind her, felt incredible pain as one of her beautiful wings floated to the ground. The crippling agony bent her and she screamed.

She lifted her pale face to her attacker, slowly dragged herself back to her feet. The nub of her gorgeous wing leaked blood. She reached up and held it, helpless against the monster before her.

He laughed. “Guardian, not so good at your job. Your charge lays at your feet.”

As she held her throbbing wing, a glowing silver sword appeared in her hand. She swung it around, the tip pressed against his neck, a welt of red blood already covered it. “Who are you?” She demanded.

“Merely one of the fallen, sent to eliminate your kind.” He sneered into her face, his own dagger laid upon the ground next to the fading wing.

Nia had no idea what he was talking about, she attended Franklin High School, she wasn't some supernatural being. Then, Ian groaned at her feet.

She squatted down beside him, covered his body with her own, and glared up at the monster. “Leave if you want to keep breathing.” She waved the sword, and it grew brighter. He vanished as quickly as he appeared.

“Ian?” She asked, and she held her hands against his wound. A shining bright light shimmered from her fingertips. She watched as his wound knitted together, her eyes round with wonder.

“Ian?” She asked again gently, she touched his face and he turned to gaze into her eyes.

“Guardian Nia....” He smiled, his eyes glided over her body, both wings whole again. “You're beautiful.”

She grinned back down at him. Someone had some explaining to do, and she figured she'd start with her Aunt Debbie. What the heck was going on in her life?

Hope everyone loved the image as much as I did! Have a great weekend!!!

((hugs))

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 71 (the Thursday ed.)

2011-12-15T07:57:00.001-06:00

OMG!!! I've been so busy with Christmas shopping, final exam schedules (and making sure the kids arrive on time to this weird scheduling thing their college does), and my son's Christmas concert (and ear splitting band practices - they're auditioning a singer tonite - the fun never ends), I completely forgot this weeks prompt!!!! I can't believe it!!!! Thanks B (Linda) for reminding me!!! OMG!!! So Sorry! LOL

Such is the life of someone who has gone full tilt up til today!

Anyway.... here's this week's prompt...

It's another of the images that Blodeuedd sent. Isn't it great!!! (though I'll understand if I didn't give everyone enough time to get the prompt done.... again, so sorry!)

The rules remain the same, 350 words or somewhere around there and come back Friday (I hope) to post your response!

And as always... have fun and let your creative juices flow!!

Ciao!

December 8th 1980, The Day I Grew Up

2011-12-08T14:17:00.001-06:00

The Beatles came onto the world stage at a time when the desire for change had reached a pinnacle with the youth, though many others fought against it. It wasn't so much as a single age, but a generational age that spanned many years and many lives. A generation for hope, a generation with thoughts to end wars, a generation filled with the desire to make the world a better place. And it is my belief that this hope continues today. Then, Kennedy was president, though he would leave us too soon, as would Martin Luther King, Medger Evers, and Robert Kennedy. All voices for change, all taken by an assassin's bullet.

If you are part of "my generation", your life changed December 8, 1980. That's the day John Lennon was shot and killed outside his apartment building, The Dakota, in New York City by crazed fanatic Mark David Chapman at 11:07 pm. That was the day I realized my own mortality. It was the day that I grew older, the day I grew up. Never again would I dream of The Beatles and a reunion tour, something that everyone thought would happen as the "boys" grew older and more mellow with age. John Lennon lost his chance to age that day. I'm now older than John Lennon will ever be, but my dreams haven't died. John Lennon's words ring as true as today they did then, thirty-one years ago....

Imagine

Imagine there's no heaven
It's easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people living for today

Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people living life in peace

Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people sharing all the world

You, you may say
I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one
I hope some day you'll join us
And the world will live as one

Just imagine... Join the ranks of the dreamer... It's easy if you try...

And it still rings so true... Imagine.

My children are the new face of Beatles fans, though they never heard John Lennon live, never experienced the mania of the Beatles. But, the hope lives on, as does the music.

Pre-Ringo Starr Photo, Pete Best on drums.

George Harrison, John Lennon, Paul McCartney (1957)

Classic Beatles

John Lennon - Happier Times

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Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 70 (the evening ed.)

2011-12-05T20:42:00.000-06:00

Good Evening Blogosphere Buds!!

I've been exhausted since finishing NaNoWriMo... I think that illness I had wasn't quite ready to let me go. After sleeping most of the day, I'm feeling better!

So, my kids decorated for Christmas, and I made a wreath after I woke up this afternoon... it's not as fancy as the store bought ones, but it isn't nearly as gaudy either... If I could have found something simple, I would have bought one. I'm not a fan of glue guns, but they do have their uses, lol.

Since it's still Monday... it's time for another edition of....

Bloduedd sent me a parcel of images, and I loved them! Thanks B! So, today's flash is one of her images.

So many possibilities!!! Have fun, be creative! Looks kind of like a young adult image.... maybe start something new for YA readers!

Ciao!

NaNoWriMo 2011

2011-12-01T05:22:00.001-06:00

Good Morning December 1st 2011!!

I'm so happy to see this day arrive! It was a long haul from November 1st until November 30th... I mean it was really long! For some reason this year, it was incredibly hard to concentrate, hard to put into words, it was just damn hard to write. Why? I don't know. Haven't the foggiest! Will I continue to compete in NaNo? Probably... Maybe... Possibly... at this point, all bets are off, lol.

Maybe it was having the flu in the middle of the month, or maybe it was just me and my complete lack of motivation, who knows, but I did manage to complete my 50k, and I have another MS under my belt (with LOTS of editing to follow...). Maybe my dream of publication is getting closer as well.

And to all my writing buddies out there, Congratulations! Whether you finished NaNo or not, whether this is your first time competing or not, you all deserve a big pat on the back. It's extremely hard to dedicate part of every day to writing, I know, I live there too. To those who managed to hit the goal of 50,000 words, woohoo!! Damn, I'm celebrating... doing the happy dance with you! To all my flash fiction buds who participated, I'm so happy you did. You've shown your ability to write quick little pieces, and have succeeded in something much longer, and I have to say much harder! Congrats!! I hope now that NaNo is over, we can all try participating in the flash fiction again... at least after a little recuperation time, lol. Right now, I think my brain is in a temporary no fry zone.

And well, I guess there's always next year!! (I also managed to add words to my YA MS that I'm working on, so November, any way you look at it was a plus for me....) Regardless, I wanted to share my newest certificate....which was much harder to achieve this year than the last two years. I have to say, I'm very excited and happy that I managed to finish on time!!

So, maybe someday, you'll see my name on a book somewhere and think.... I knew her when it was only a dream.... (or maybe I'll see yours....)

Thanks to all my cheerleaders out there, if it hadn't been for you, I might still be sitting in front of a blank computer screen, waiting for something interesting to happen. YOU ROCK!!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 69

2011-11-28T07:00:00.002-06:00

Good Monday... *yawn* Morning....

By now I'm exhausted, probably 20,000 words short of my goal with two days time left to write for NaNoWriMo, I hope not, but... well... lets just say it wouldn't be the first time, and caffeine is my friend, close and personal, lol.

Since it's Monday...

I hope everyone is rested and ready for the week! This week's image is, well, it's different....

It looks like fun... like maybe I wanna join here... or again, maybe not...I don't see any survivors with her....

The rules remain the same... 350 words more or less, but most important.. Have fun! Let your whimsy flow!!

Ciao!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2011-11-24T15:24:00.000-06:00

To all my friends, far and wide!

Have a piece of pumpkin pie!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 68

2011-11-21T07:00:00.003-06:00

Good Monday Morning!

This month is flying by!! Here it is, three weeks into the month of November, and by this time, I'm panicking, probably only half done with my MS.... Gawd, I'm scaring myself, lol!!

Since it's Monday....

This week's image is a Louis Royo one, hope everyone enjoys the change up!!

It definitely tells a story....

The rules remain the same 350 or there about, and come back Friday to post your response.

Try to reach outside your comfort zone, make this one an epic battle, or maybe it's Knight Arthur, or Charlemagne, or maybe it's a mage, discovery her kingdom for the first time... Whatever you come up with, but have fun!!!

Ciao!!

Posting From The Land of NaNoWriMo

2011-11-15T10:52:00.000-06:00

Good Tuesday Morning Blog Buds!!

I'm deep into the heart of my NaNo MS, but I'm feeling kind of buzzed, that fried feeling you get from not enough sleep and your brain going a mile a minute, which leads to the dreaded brain fraggle. Too wound up and tired to sleep, lol. Can't hardly keep your eyes open, but you must. You know what I mean?

Today I should easily surpass the mid point of my NaNo MS... But...it's the hard part of writing... that part of the MS where, without continuing action or a new scene the middle drag occurs. Your characters should be well acquainted by now, not that they know all the other's secrets, because it's hard to keep the characters fresh if there's nothing left to discover.

How I avoided the dreaded middle drag... I introduced a new character, someone the main character needs to understand. Someone she hopes holds some of her answers. I guess I could have added a love scene to keep the excitement going, but it didn't feel right.

So, how's everyone else doing?? I haven't been posting a lot, lol, but I hope to have a flash ready for Friday. Keeping my fingers crossed. (I know a lot of our flash writers are NaNo-ing this year, yay!! Go! Go! Go!) Don't feel bad if you decided to sit this one out. Only two weeks left of NaNo... I hope everyone is having fun!!

Well that's it for me. Time to jump back into the Life After Death.

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 67

2011-11-14T07:00:00.007-06:00

Good Morning to the Blogosphere!!

As you know, I'm still NaNo-ing, lol! So this is going to be short and sweet (well, sort of), for this week's edition of.....

I really love this image, hope I find time for it!!

I really love this image! It's by Betty Jo Curry. Hope everyone else likes it, a little of the three bears for me....

The rules remain the same 350 words (somewhere around there) and come back Friday to post your post.

Have fun and remember to let those creative juices flow!!

Ciao!

The Friday Post Minus The Flash Fiction

2011-11-11T21:25:00.001-06:00

Good Friday Night Blog Buddies!

Sorry to say, I've had no time to write the flash for this week. I was sick Tuesday and Wednesday, and when I woke up Wednesday morning, half dead myself and unable to breathe, half of our house didn't have power... When I passed out Wednesday night, I'd written only a few paragraphs. It's been a really long week!! Repairmen, rewiring, $$$$

But, I've finally caught up the word count of my NaNo MS...and I'm at a fork in the road.

Trying to decide if, after a few kisses, and after the conflict has been established between heroine and hero, is it time for my characters to become...more involved. It feels like the right time to me, but did I wait too long?

You know, it is too soon to do the dirty dance, the horizontal mambo... sex. It's always a quandary for me... when is too soon, and when have you waited too long?? Should they have already progressed to this point. My head says no, it feels right in the storyline.

I'm at about 18,000 words (that would about 72 printed book pages), almost halfway through my MS (before edits), probably will hit 25,000 words this weekend, if I don't get distracted by the YA MS I'm working on, it's about 17,000 words... and it's bugging me, lol.

So, there you have it! I'm asking your opinion! How soon is too soon for the bedroom scene?? When as the conflict continued too long??? What do you think?

Have a great weekend!!!! (I'll be writing... between bouts of doubt and contemplating the entire destruction of my MS...LOL)

So You Think You Can Write?

2011-11-08T11:57:00.000-06:00

Hello to everyone in the blogosphere... (echoes back... crickets fill the backgroud). I'm emerging from the forest long enough to gasp for non-writing filled air.

My NaNoWriMo attempt is... progressing, if not a bit slowly. And I was right, right now, I'm considering deleting the whole thing, it happens every time. But, I'm already committed, so it's onward for the timid soldier. Right now, I'm sitting at a weak 10,000 words. Should be somewhere around 14,000 words. Can I do a 4000 word day? I don't think so... but maybe a couple of 2500-3000 words days, and I'll be mostly caught up!!

I fell on the writing wagon, missed most of the weekend, but I had a great one! Son number 2, some of you may know him as 'the drummer' entered his first contest this weekend at the Battle of the Bands. He's been trying to start a band, it's just him and his bud so far. But, they figured they'd give BoB a shot, it's their Junior year, and they had nothing better to do anyway, just the two of them jamming, hoping someone hearing them will want to join their mini-band, lol. And guess what, THEY WON SECOND PLACE! He couldn't believe it, I couldn't believe it. They had to beat a bunch of bands to grab second place.... and there's only the two of them... no singer, no bassist, just a guitar and a drum set..... Still getting over the shock, LOL!

But, this wasn't even the point of my blog today... I'm getting lost in the details, much like my MS.

Harlequin is holding a "So You Think You Can Write" contest to go along with NaNoWriMo. There are editors on site, assignments everyday to get editor feedback. Information about synopsis, what editors are looking, and at the end, the possibility of having your manuscript published if you're the BIG winner. Not saying I'm entering the contest, but I'm all for the writing tips! My NaNoWriMo attempt will never be ready by their deadline in December, but some of my writing buddies might... Why not give it a try? So You Think You Can Write started yesterday, but you can read the blogs from yesterday, and still participate in today. Go have a peek!

Well, the forest is calling me, the leaves... brown, orange, and red... are wrestling in the breeze. Drifting slowly to the ground, my MS along with them. Chat you up later!!

Battle of the Bands... for your listening enjoyment...LOL Awesomeness!!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 66

2011-11-07T07:00:00.007-06:00

Good Monday Morning From NaNoWriMo Land!!

Since it's Monday, it must be time for another edition of MMFFC!!

At this moment, I'm deep in NaNoWriMo land. Peering through the overhanging brush, trying to find my way through the forest. I know I'm struggling, my inner editor wants to fix, correct, change. I know, from past experience, that I thinking about deleting the whole damn thing at this point to start over. But, I know I can't, this is just the beginning, and I have almost three long weeks to go. If you hear intense screaming from somewhere from Blogville, you'll know it's me.

This week's image is one I hope I find time to write for, though it is mostly an impossibility. Busy, busy, busy.... (I hope a few of the new writers have decided to NaNo a try and if you do, buddy me!!)

I've decided since I'm knee deep in the forest, maybe our flash should be too, lol.

The rules remain the same, 350 words or somewhere around there, and come back Friday to post your response, and as always.... Have Fun!! Be Creative!!

Ciao!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 65... The Friday Post

2011-11-04T06:00:00.010-05:00

Good Friday Morning to my Flash Fiction Buddies!!

As you know, I'm NaNo-ing this November. I'm up to my elbows in Life After Death (my working title of my NaNoWriMo attempt). I'm closing in on 6000 words, and still feel the story coming on strong. I'm a pantser if you didn't know, I've tried, and I simply get lost in the plot if I try to uncover the story. So, I'm letting it lead me, and so far, I think it's pretty interesting. More to come about the story after I get further in, waiting to see where the story goes.... I've also found myself with extra energy and creativity... at least for now, excitement over NaNo starting is the probable culprit, lol. By the end of the month, my fingers won't even want to get close to my laptop. I've been delving back into my YA MS, and I'm loving it all over again, yay! (More to come as I get closer to the finish!) But, back to the flash fiction....

After staring at the image for this week's flash, I felt compelled to write for it, and it's different for me. What I thought was a fluffy picture, turned dark, and I wrote a continuation of Rapunzel's story....twisted with the moral of the story. Here's my attempt to respond to the prompt.

(Beth Fullaway's gorgeous image)

Rapunzel: A Fairy Tale Gone Wrong

By: Dottie Taylor

word count: 460

Rapunzel stood in the growing darkness, her long tresses floated about her, caught in a breeze like gossamer butterfly wings. Since she escaped her tower, she found herself at a loss. Her prince turned out to be a dude. What was true love anyway? A few kisses, a squeeze, two people caught in the dark with heat between them. Certainly not the great love of her life that she'd thought it would be.

The growing gloom surrounded her, physically and mentally, she needed a distraction. She needed to get out of her increasing funk.

She came to a small pool of water, and sank to the forest floor, her tresses puddled around her, and she gazed into her reflection.

“Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your long hair.” She repeated the fabled lines to herself. “So I may climb your golden stair.” She glanced down at her golden locks, made silvery by the moonlight. “I should just cut it off, causes more trouble than it's worth.” She tried to push the heavy hair over her shoulders. She sighed, she missed the safety and comfort of her tower.

Since leaving her prince is his cold castle, she'd made her home here in the forest, as it should be. She found a comfortable place beneath the trees, making a bed of pine needles and fallen leafs. She closed her eyes and fell deep into a dream filled sleep.

In her dream, she found herself running, her long hair flowed out behind her, catching on branches and brambles. She could her the cries of her pursuers.

“Rapunzel, Rapunzel!” Their wicked cries came, “let us climb your golden hair!” Magic flowed over and around her, goose pimples broke through her pale flesh. Their cries coalesced into one hoarse voice, the witch who'd imprisoned her to the gilded tower from which she came.

For all of her angst over leaving her prince, there wasn't any way she really wanted to return to the dark tower. She ran faster, harder, her breathing became harsher. Suddenly she stumbled, feet twisted in her golden tresses. The witch was upon her, trapped within her own desires.

When Rapunzel awoke, it was to find the dream turned nightmare a reality. The witch dragged her back to her dark prison, lost, and not even her prince to save her.

“I'll show you.” The witch muttered, the snippers gleamed in her hand.

With Rapunzel's golden locks shorn, her fate became sealed. Only the witch would be able to climb the enchanted tower, sentenced to do her jailor's bidding for now and forever.

Moral of the Story:

Be careful what you wish for, it may come true.

Be thankful for what you have, it could always be worse.

See, dark, disturbing... lol... glad my NaNo story isn't being effected so far!!

Have a great weekend!!

Cinder by Marissa Meyer

2011-11-03T08:56:00.000-05:00

Publisher: Macmillian (Feiwel and Friends)
Pages: 400

(Release Date: January 3, 2012)

From the Cover:

Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl. . . .

Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future.

Guess what book just made my wishlist?? Gorgeous Cover!!

Promo ~ Sherrilyn Kenyon's The Guardian ~ The Dark Hunter Series

2011-11-01T13:31:00.000-05:00

Hello to everyone in Blogland! (If you haven't noticed, I'm already procrastinating NaNo, lol.)

Today is the release day for Sherrilyn Kenyon's new addition to her Dark Hunter series, The Guardian.

publisher: St. Martin's Press (Paperback)
pages: 345

From the Cover:

Dream-Hunter Lydia has been charged with the most sacred and dangerous of missions: To descend into the Nether Realm and find the missing god of dreams before he betrays the secrets that could kill her and her kind. What she never expects is to be taken prisoner by the Realm’s most vicious guardian…

Seth’s time is running out. If he can’t hand over the entrance to Olympus, his own life and those of his people will be forfeit. No matter the torture, Seth hasn’t been able to break the god in his custody. Then there’s the beautiful Dream-Hunter Lydia: She isn’t just guarding the gates of Olympus—she’s holding back one of the world’s darkest powers. If she fails, an ancient curse will haunt the earth once more and no one will be safe. But evil is always seductive...

Book Trailer....Hot!

Looks great to me!!

Happy Samhain!!! And....Last Chance for Crescent Moon Press Book Discount on Amazon

2011-10-31T15:00:00.022-05:00

Happy Halloween!!

Violets are purple, blood runs red
If you think to not celebrate Halloween
You'll find something to dread!

Ghosts and goblins,
Running amok....
All I have to say is Good Luck!

It's the last day to purchase Crescent Moon Press's library of books at a discounted rate on Amazon!! The sale lasts until Midnight tonight, 10-31-11, Halloween.... grab some great reads!!

Books range from the sweetly romantic to their new genre, New Adult, to the extra steamy!

Here are the link's to some of the book's I've reviewed under their label.

Soul Reborn by Jean Murray...Egpytian Gods and Goddess, huntresses, love...fantastic read!

Wasteland by Lynn Rush...Demons and Angels, romance, New Adult genre, loved it!!

Ruined by Kinley Baker...what happens to the shadow shifters? Love, betrayal, excellent story!

Thief of Hope by Cindy Young-Turner...can love survive in a place where hope is lost? Great!

Magick Charm by Jennifer Wells...sweet romance, witches, magical, Wonderful!

All Hallows Blood by Raven Corinn Carluk...sexy hot German vampire, angsty hunter...Hot!!

Memories of Murder by Lara Nance...old curses, magic, ghosts, revenge...Wow!

Undercover Alien by Barbara Romo...alien visits Earth, discovers love and more...loved it!

Drop by S.J. Edward/Cassandra Cade...most excellent time travel, romance, great read!!

Crescent Moon Press is a small publisher, but their books are anything but small, fantastic stories, well told, great editing, and their cover art is beautiful!! If you a cover art lover, check these out, then read the blurbs, because you're going to love the stories!! Remember, sale ends at Midnight 10-31-11!

Don't forget to check out this week's flash fiction challenge. And remember to enter contest for a copy of Destined by P.C. + Kristin Cast, ends 11-7--11.

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 65

2011-10-31T07:00:00.003-05:00

Good Monday Morning!!

After a long weekend running around the state of Kentucky, we're finally home... And as much as I like visiting, I'm very, very glad to be home. Very tired as well, and guess what ladies? NaNoWriMo starts Tuesday!! Okay, so I'm going to post flash fiction images for the rest of November, but I can't guarantee I'll have time to participate. I'll try, but with NaNoWriMo, 1,667 words are the goal for each and every day. I've been doing some research for the topic of this years NaNo MS... I hope I'm able to write about the topic, I'm going a little outside my comfort zone with this one, LOL... hope I'm able to reach the goal this year. It's doubtful at this point though....

Anyway, back to the flash fiction...

At Ana's request.... I've tried to find something a, welll..., a little fluffy. Something not quite so dark, maybe something with a happily ever after? LOL Hard for me to do the fluff, but I have a few images, so today's one of those....

This is a Beth Fullaway image. Hope everyone enjoys it, and I hope it's fluffy enough, lol. It kind of reminds me of Rapunzel.... I wonder what kind of flash it will produce?

The rules remain the same, 350 words or something like that, and come back Friday to post your response!

Have fun!

I'll talk to y'all soon!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 64 (The Saturday Post....again)

2011-10-29T09:06:00.000-05:00

Well, we decided Friday to take a mini-vacay....so this morning I'm sitting in a very nice hotel room, and posting on my blog... BUT, what about those Cardindals!!!!! Holy Cow! I couldn't believe Game 6, and Game 7.... They just dominated! It was totally awesome!!!! So, back to my flash for this week...

Here's the image:

Blessed Be

by: Dottie Taylor

word count: 468

“Blessed be, Mother, for I have sinned....” the prayer started the same as it fell from her parched, cracked lips. Morgana laughed at it's meaninglessness, it echoed through the empty church. “Forgive my trespasses, as I forgive those trespass against me.” As she uttered these last words, she lifted her face, eyes closed, and again she laughed, louder, deeper, bolder. She twined her hands, clasped her fingers as if lost in prayer. Her mouth spilled silent words, then she grimaced, grinding out, “As I have forgiven those who have trespassed against me.” Suddenly, the room flooded with power, pews flew back into the wall, scattering into splinters. She lifted her face higher, and opened her black eyes, her soulless windows. Morgana raged, her throat raw, “As. I. Have. Forgiven!” But no more.

She stood as the smoldering burn of power rolled from her body. She flung her head up, threw her shoulders back, and spread her arms wide as if to welcome the world in a strangling embrace. Arcs of electricity erupted from her hands, sparks fell like firecrackers, and a deep rumble of laughter engulfed her small form.

“With this prayer, I offer this humble servant.” She clapped the streams coming from her hands, creating a massive bolt of lightning. Her body shook as the power increased, building for release. “Save me from trial and deliver me unto evil.” She whispered. With the last words, the lightning arced from her clasped hands and into the man outside the small building. She heard his chuckle before the force of her power slammed into his jerking body.

The church could hardly be recognized, it's steeple gone to the surrounding heap of destruction. The neighborhood which at one time housed young families was now rubble. And the battle raged on.

“Come to me, Little One,” Miguel called lovingly to Morgana, “come to meet your true destiny.” His voice stroked her tired nerves.

“Never will yours be mine.” She growled, fought for the control her needed, fought to save herself, even as she felt herself slipping toward the promised salvation of his voice. Lies. What she had supposed to be another nuance worked into much more. Miguel demanded her, body and soul, to use and discard, as he had all those he encroached upon, those who wielded power such as her own.

She started her prayer again. “Forgive my trespasses, as I have forgiven those who trespass against me!” Mother Earth expected the prayer; therefore, she gave it. It meant little, other than to focus the force building within her. “With this prayer, I offer this humble servant!” She shouted to the emptiness. “Save me from trial and deliver me unto evil!”

Never had the words been more true.

Have a great weekend!!!!

Embraced by the Shadows by Mayra Calvani

2011-10-28T12:00:00.001-05:00

Publisher: Twilight Times Books
Pages: 242

(Revised Release: October 5, 2011)

From the Cover:

In a bazaar in Istanbul one evening, ten-year-old Alana Piovanetti sees a man standing in the shadows. He smiles, and over time she convinces herself that it was just her imagination that placed sharp fangs amongst those flashing teeth.

Twelve years later, Alana is surprised when she is chosen to manage a new restaurant opening in her home city of San Juan. She has neither training nor experience to justify her success. But La Cueva del Vampiro has the kind of ambience she adores, for Alana has always had a penchant for horror and the dark side of life. Yet she is also plagued with dreams of dark sensuality, dreams that take on shattering reality when she meets the stunningly handsome, charismatic Sadash.

For Sadash is the man she saw in the shadows so many years before… and Sadash isn’t human…

Alana is head strong, morbidly fascinated with death and monsters, a virginal ice princess. It isn't that she doesn't like sex or men, but more like she waiting for a promised lover, and when he arrives, the ice princess will melt. She will either love him or hate him, with her hot spicy flavor. She isn't the storybook Latina, she has hair to match her fiery temper and pale flesh.

Valeria, Alana's best friend and twin soul, is also the opposite of the storybook Latina as well, which is one of the reasons they're twin soul. She has blazing blonde hair, pale skin with dark brown eyes. But, she's secretive, has a tendency towards viciousness (but so does Alana), hiding things from Alana while expecting her to expose all of her secrets, jealous of anything that comes between them. Valeria is an orphan, while Alana loses her father very young and her mother as a teen.

Humberto is best friend to both, the three musketeers. All three are motherless, though Humberto's father remains. Antonio's secrets nearly cost him his life.

Sadash walks into the picture at a time when Alana is most vulnerable. She hasn't been feeling herself, dreams have been plaguing her, and Valeria discovers her sleep walking. She puts it all down as nerves, starting a new job she's barely qualified for as manager of La Cueva del Vampiro. But, no sooner does she start her new job that she meets the sexy, strange, overwhelming Sadash. But, he wants to whisk her away, and keep her all to himself, regardless of her feelings. And he's something more than human.... and maybe he's the beast haunting Alana's dreams.

Embraced by the Shadows by Mayra Calvani is the story of a vampire with a longing for what he can never have. Back before the years of vampirism, he was a Turkish Ottoman prince and soldier, sure to be the next ruler of his people, when he loses his ten year old daughter to a mysterious disease (the plague? is my assumption). A noble woman sees his suffering and wants to alleviate it, leave him at peace, so she takes him, drinks him, leaving him vampire. Some three hundred years later, Sadash find himself in a Turkish market, staring at the image of his long dead daughter in the form of Alana. It begins his quest from a distance until need becomes desire, and he decides to take Alana, much like he was taken. Even though Alana wants Sadash, and might, one day, choose to become like Sadash, he seduces her, drinks her, turns her, without really getting her any choice. Now, she both hates and loves the dark vampire. She has much to learn, and Sadash is a great teacher, but she grows weary and wants the comfort of the only friends she has known, Valeria and Humberto. But, Valeria's jealously comes into play, she can't stand the thought of Alana separating herself or the fact that she'll grow old and die as Alana stays young and beautiful. Valeria is also hiding a secret, one about the day when Alana's mother died, and Alana must know how she died or possibly who killed her.

Embraced by the Shadows is a different kind of vampire world, it is a paranormal romance without sex involved, and honestly, there's the romance of seduction and touching, but it's a love/hate relationship, on both Sadash and Alana's part. Not that the vampiric bite doesn't cause ecstasy. But in Mayra Calvani's world, vampires can't have sex. They are, after all, dead. The young must take their prey completely to feel satisfied, instead of the delicate bites that leave their human prey alive. This is how Valeria discovers the truth of Alana's life. The niggles I had with the book are few. I didn't like the idea of Sadash being draw to the young Alana as he might have been to his daughter. Then fantasizing about about how he'll take her and change her. It seemed a little incestuous, though Sadash denies it repeatedly in the book. Then, after Alana's is changed, her blood lust for Valeria is overpowering, it's almost too much for her to bear, almost costing Valeria her life, who demands Alana to change her. But, it's Valeria's jealousy for what she can't have on display over and over again throughout the story. All in all, I liked and enjoyed the story, and the niggles were probably just my point of view (and besides, I like my vampires hot, which Sadash is, and ready to perform, which Sadash is not....disappointing). Urban fantasy lovers might want to give this one a peek, it's definitely a different world for the vampire genre. 4 out of 5 fairy kisses for this reader.

If you'd like to try Ms. Calvani writing style, she's giving away her first two books, here's the blurb from her website:

The FREE ebooks I’m giving away are: Dark Lullaby and Cat Cellar and Other Stories and they’re available in various formats on Smashwords:

The Cat Cellar and Other Stories https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/95031

Dark Lullaby https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/94529

Enjoy! Happy reading and happy Halloween!

Destined by P.C. + Kristin Cast ~ Promo + Giveaway!!

2011-10-27T07:00:00.001-05:00

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Pages: 352

(Released: October 25, 2011)

From the Cover:

Zoey is finally home where she belongs, safe with her Guardian Warrior, Stark, by her side, and preparing to face off against Neferet – which would be a whole lot easier if the High Counsel saw the ex-High Priestess for what she really is. Kalona has released his hold on Rephaim, and, through Nyx's gift of a human form, Rephaim and Stevie Rae are finally able to be together – if he can truly walk the path of the Goddess and stay free of his father's shadow…

But there are new forces at work at the House of Night. An influx of humans, including Lenobia’s handsome horse whisperer, threatens their precarious stability. And then there’s the mysterious Aurox, a jaw-droppingly gorgeous teen boy who is actually more – or possibly less – than human. Only Neferet knows he was created to be her greatest weapon. But Zoey can sense the part of his soul that remains human, the compassion that wars with his Dark calling. And there’s something strangely familiar about him…

Will Neferet’s true nature be revealed before she succeeds in silencing them all? And will Zoey be able to touch Aurox’s humanity in time to protect him – and everyone – from his own fate? Find out what’s destined in the next thrilling chapter of the House of Night series.

WOW!! It sounds like Zoey and her friends are up to their necks in trouble! Can't wait to see what Zoey does next, and if she and her friends will survive in this next installment in the House of Night series!

Book Trailer: Destined, Book 9, House of Night series

Giveaway Details:

St. Martin's Griffin and Zeitghost Media would like to giveaway ONE copy of P.C. + Kristin Cast's new book, Destined, Book 9 of the House of Night series to my blog readers (US and Canada addresses only - sorry). To enter the giveaway, just leave a comment on this post. Giveaway ends 11-7-11.

Thanks! And enter away!!

Author Interview: Cindy Young-Turner

2011-10-26T07:00:00.086-05:00

Good Morning to Everyone in the Blogosphere!!

Today I have to good fortune to welcome Cindy Young-Turner to my blog! I had the opportunity to review her new book, Thief of Hope from Crescent Moon Press... so good!! I hope you have a chance to pick it up!

Welcome Cindy!!

Why don't you start by telling my readers a little bit about yourself?

I’m a technical editor by day, fantasy writer by night. I’ve been an editor for a while now, but my favorite job was working as a VISTA volunteer at an adult literacy program in inner-city Baltimore. I really felt like I made a difference in people’s lives there.

I also love bagpipes (listening to them, not playing them).

What drew you to writing?

I’ve been writing forever. Sometime in elementary school I must have been given an assignment to write a story and that began my love of writing. I’ve always been a big reader, so the idea that I could create my own stories and characters was exciting. I used to carry around a notebook and pen and I’d write wherever and whenever I could. When I was about twelve I wrote my first novel, an epic SF novel that ripped off all my favorite movies. I still have it, carefully printed on notebook paper in a three-ring binder.

Do you write for the story burning to be told or do you write for a character that won't leave you alone?

Usually it’s a character that won’t leave me alone. Once I start paying attention, the story starts to unfold.

Are you a pantser or plotter?

Totally a pantser. I can’t outline to save my life, and I’ve tried. It would certainly make things easier sometimes. But for me part of the fun of writing is figuring out where the story is going. I honestly don’t know exactly what will happen until I write it because things often change or characters do things I don’t expect that might take the story in a different direction than I envisioned. I often know a few plot points along the way, but how I’m going to get there is never certain.

When do you like to write? Mornings, Afternoons, Middle of the Night, or somewhere in between (like when the kids sleep)?

With a nearly full-time job and a three-year-old daughter, my days are pretty full. I usually write at night, in the wee hours of the morning. Sleep, who needs sleep?

LOL.... I know what you mean.....

Do you have some favorite music that inspires your writing? A movie? What inspires you?

I like to listen to movie soundtracks. The Lord of the Rings movies, Braveheart, Last of the Mohicans, and original Star Wars trilogy are all favorites for when I write. I have really eclectic taste in music, so it also depends on the tone of the scene I’m working on. Sometimes I listen to harder music, like Metallica, Godsmack, or Cold, and sometimes it’s Irish music like the Chieftains.

I like The Killers, David Bowie, and The Beatles...

When you're not writing, do you have a favorite author or genre you enjoy?

I read all kinds of authors and genres. It’s hard to pick a favorite. I’m a big fan of Diana Gabaldon and love her Outlander series. I have a bunch of fantasy on my to be read list, like Game of Thrones and The Hunger Games. Sadly I don’t have as much time to read as I’d like, so I have to squeeze it in wherever I can.

What advice would you give to others in the journey to becoming published?

Just keep writing and don’t give up, because you will get rejected and feel discouraged. Join a critique group or find a good critique partner. I feel lucky enough to belong to two amazing critique groups (over ten years in each of them) and they have been invaluable in helping me with my writing. You really need to get honest feedback from other writers, plus have that support and encouragement.

Did you have a long line of submissions before you “got the call”?

Yup. I do have an agent and he’d been submitting my book for about two years before I received the offer from Crescent Moon Press.

Where can we find you and your books?

My website: http://www.cindyyoungturner.com

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4882750.Cindy_Young_Turner

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cindy-Young-Turner/206268086074718

Crescent Moon Press: http://crescentmoonpress.com/books/ThiefOfHope.html

Thief of Hope is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.com

Share with us something about your current book.

Thief of Hope was recently named a EPIC ebook finalist in fantasy! I was so excited to get the message that I was a finalist. Winners will be announced in March 2012, so we’ll see what happens. Thief of Hope has an unusual heroine, Sydney, a pickpocket with authority issues who becomes involved in the fight to overthrow an oppressive regime, not to mention some dangerous magic. And there’s a bit of romance also.

Oh! Congrats!!

What are your future plans for your series? Are you cooking up a new one?

I’m currently working on a sequel titled Thief of Destiny that continues the adventures of Sydney and Willem. The scope is much bigger in this book, and Sydney faces new challenges that make her question many of the things she believes. Fun new characters and old favorites. Plus there’s a lot more Willem in this one.

I, for one, would love more about Sydney (she's so sweet in her own way) and Willem (Willem is such a great character!)

Some fun stuff!

Coffee, Tea, or Something Harder?

All of the above! I’m a tea fanatic, though. I have drawers full of tea. Loose tea, tea bags, I love it all. I’m like a kid in a candy store when I find a tea shop, and there aren’t nearly enough of them around here.

If you were stranded on a desert island... would you hope that Johnny Depp, Hugh Jackman, or Gerard Butler was stranded with you (if hubby/boyfriend decided to stay home while you cruised, for me, not likely, lol, but I'd have a hard time choosing...)?

I think my husband would understand (right, hon?) that Johnny Depp would win, hands down. Plus if anyone could get us off a desert island it would be Captain Jack Sparrow. Riding on the back of a giant sea turtle? LOL Not that we’d want to leave…

Cake or Ice Cream (or both, what flavor)?

Chocolate peanut butter ice cream

Favorite all-time read? Movie? Favorite banned book?

There are too many to pick just one. A few on my “favorites” bookshelf are Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley, Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien, On the Road by Jack Kerouac, and a collection of stories by Edgar Allan Poe. Same with movies, but I love the original Star Wars trilogy and the Lord of the Rings trilogy. So many good banned books also. To Kill a Mockingbird is one of my all-time favorites.

To Kill a Mockingbird is one of my all time favorites as well... and Edgar Allan Poe!

Favorite paranormal creature?

I’ve always had a fondness for vampires, thanks to the vampire Lestat and The Lost Boys movie.

I LOVED Louie in Interview with a Vampire! The Lost Boys is a must watch, lol, every time it's on...

If you were going to pick a book/movie character to become...who would it be?

Eowyn from Lord of the Rings. I love a strong warrior woman.

Secret desires?

To buy a VW van and drive cross country. I’m a hippie at heart.

Sounds like fun!

Thanks again for being here today Cindy! So much fun to learn more about the authors I love!!

Wasteland by Lynn Rush

2011-10-25T10:00:00.038-05:00

Publisher: Crescent Moon Press
Pages: 284

(Released: August 1, 2011)

From the Cover:

Bound by the blood contract his human mother signed four centuries ago, half-demon, David Sadler, must obey his demonic Master's order to capture fifteen-year-old Jessica Hanks. But as he learns more about her, he realizes she may be the key to freedom from his dark enslavement.

The only obstacle-Jessica's distractingly beautiful Guardian, Rebeka Abbott. He must not give in to their steamy chemistry, or he will lose his humanity. But fresh off a quarter millennia of sensory deprivation as punishment for not retrieving his last target, he may not be able to resist temptation long enough to save what's left of his human soul.

David, half demon by his mother's blood contract, has spent 245 years at the mercy of his Master's torture. Unable to fulfill Master's demand, he was sent to the burning pits, darkness, sensory deprivation, and unending hungers. Upon his release, David is sent after Master's newest desire, Jessica Hanks, with no other information other than the name of a nightclub in Arizona and that she bears a mark.

Gage, his demon 'brother', jailor, and unwanted companion, tries to intimidate David, cow him into become the full demon he knows rests inside David's body, the one who claws for release, the one who wants to taste tender flesh. But, David knows, the instant he gives into his unholy desire, his life as he knows it will be over. His humanity lost. This he cannot live with.

Beka is a guardian angel sent to protect the one thing David must have, Jessica Hanks, but with as little information as David. She and her 'brother', Russell, become the operators of this nightclub where Jessica is to be found. Who is Jessica Hanks? Why is she so important? Beka has the answers to some of these questions. She knows what Jessica will transform to be. And she'll sacrifice her life to make sure it happens.

But, when David meets Beka, he is tempted, first by the feel of her pale flesh, then by her lilac scent. When Jessica is discovered, it's David who ends up protecting her and saving Beka's life, linking them together forever. But, with his failure to obey Master or to give in to the desire of Beka's flesh, Master will punish David all over again.

Wasteland by Lynn Rush is under Crescent Moon Press's new genre of New Adult, targeted toward the emerging late teens to early twenties, those facing first time relationships, jobs, life of an adult. It has some of the qualities of YA, looking for answers, but also some of the qualities of Adult fiction, finding love, making lasting commitments. Wasteland is the story of David Sadler, half-demon who is held by a blood contract signed by his mother before his birth. Sold for riches she never enjoyed, raped by a demon. He's a 400 year old immortal who's clinging to what's left of his human soul, who has done Master's bidding to the best of his abilities. His only failure occurred with the death of his last mark. But, even the tiniest failure earns Master's wrath, and he spent 245 of a 250 year sentence in torture, released early to find Jessica Hanks. But, what so special about this girl that makes Master release him early from punishment? Why must it be he to bring Jessica to Master? Why not one of Master's other demon slaves? What is Master truly trying to accomplish? When David is sent to retrieve Jessica, he meets Beka Abbott and he discovers some of the answers to his questions. But, will he lose himself in the process? Will he be able to resist what he desires most? Can the dark survive in the light?

Wasteland is a wonderfully told tale of the discovery of truths. The title of the book speaks volumes, and it's uniquely found. Lynn Rush creates a world that exists within the bounds of the human realm, one where demons exists to do their Master's bidding, and guardian angels exist to stop the demons and protect the innocent. But, what happens when one of the innocent has been sold to evil? Forced to become what should have never been, but as destiny would have, has indeed occurred. That's what happens in Wasteland. The question is can one survive the other. Can our hero, David, become what our heroine, Beka, needs? Or will they fail each other, especially when the truths are laid out for everyone to see. Crescent Moon Press has taken an ambitious step filling the role of this new emerging genre with Wasteland as it's first entry. It accomplishes the feat and more. Wasteland is for the paranormal romance lovers, urban fantasy lovers, and for anyone who loves the struggle to find and then hold on to love once it's found. Readers of YA outside it's targeted audience, and for those emerging from YA hoping to find a middle ground, should also give this new genre a try. Wasteland is an excellent read, highly recommended. Lynn Rush will follow up Wasteland with Awaited in 2012. She also has a new release coming March 2012, Violet Midnight, Book 1 of the Violet Night Trilogy. Wasteland gets 5 out of 5 fairy kisses for this reader. I encourage you to go out and grabbed this read now, discounted on Amazon until midnight 10-31-11.

I received this ebook for review from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 64

2011-10-24T07:00:00.003-05:00

Good Morning Flash Fictioneers!

We're a week closer to Halloween! I've loving these images and the flash, keep it coming! So, it's time for another edition of....

This is another from the deviant art website! I can't get over the talent!

Where last week's image had a little "feel good atmosphere" with the playful ghostly image, this one is the exact opposite.

The rules remain the same, 350 words or something like that, and come back Friday to post your response. Have fun! And I hope everyone has up the Halloween decorations.... next Monday is the day for little ghouls and goblins to be out and about!

Ciao and have a great week!

Sassy Sunday Story Starter

2011-10-23T11:31:00.004-05:00

Sassy Brit offers her own version of a flash fiction challenge. This week's prompt is brought to us by Selena Blake, author of Stranded With A Cajun Werewolf. Since I'm gearing up for NaNoWriMo, I thought I'd give it a try, though what I came up with isn't my usual paranormal style. But, I figure, I need to stretch my writing muscles once in a while anyway.

Lexi Armstrong, Bounty Hunter

by: Dottie Taylor

word count: 1000

She had him in her sights. Billy Ray Roberds was one slippery-son-of-a-gun but nothing that Lexi Armstrong, bounty hunter extraordinaire, couldn't handle. Lungs burning she sprinted around the corner and drew her weapon.

"Freeze Billy Ray!"The dark haired man stopped and then slowly lifted his hands. The boys back at the office were going to be doing her laundry for a month thanks to their latest bet. Lexi always won. Always. "Up against the wall." There was a sudden tremor somewhere below her belly button as six feet of lean male did her bidding. But just as she was about to put her hands on him for a pat down, he turned and pegged her with the brilliant blue gaze she'd never forgotten."Dillon?"

Stunted, Lexi gazed back into the eyes she hoped never to see again. She cursed, gun still pointed at his chest. She kicked the dirt, grimaced. “I said up against the wall.”

“Come on Lexi, it's me.” He held out his empty hands. “You know a gun isn't my style.”

“Forget what you think I know. Forget you ever knew me in a previous life. Forget everything!” But as she stared back into his brilliant blaze, that same tugging sensation, the one she tried to ignore, came again. “Jesus, just grab the cement.”

He shrugged his massive shoulders, and turned around, hands stretched wide, and leaned. She stood watching him, remembering those hands and the magic they possessed. The way he touched her body.... Damn it, she could hear the rank laughter, Alexis always gets her man.

She stepped between his legs, briskly running her hands up and down his muscular arms, biceps bulging, across his broad shoulders, over his tightening chest, hardened abs, then lower to his belt, skimming her hands front to back.

“Christ, Lexi, careful where you touch. Damn!” He swore, tensing as her hands moved lower, over his bulging zipper, down the inside of his well-formed thighs. Her hands moved back up to his ass, before he relaxed again. She remembered his response all too well.

“Alright, I guess you're clean. Turn around, hands in front please, where I can see them.” He did as she asked, where she quickly and expertly zipped the band around his wrists.

“Lexi, will you look at me? Do you really think you need the cuffs?”

She didn't want to meet his gaze, that's when she got into trouble. “It's procedure, and you know, I'm a safety kind of gal.” She stared steadily at his chest. “Lets go, you aren't my only pick up today.” She nudged him with her foot, urging him forward.

He planted his feet wide, “I'm not moving until you tell me what happened. Where'd you go?” They had two fantastic weeks in San Juan, and then one morning, he got up and she was gone.

“Lets just say I came to my senses.” She slung her blonde hair over a shoulder. Finally, she raised her hard emerald gaze to his, making his catch his breath, she smiled. His face was darkly tanned, crinkles around his eyes from laughing, blue-black hair waved almost to his collar, a little longer than she remembered. But, it was the brilliance of his eyes that stopped her pounding heart. Her knees trembled, she squirmed, trying to relieve the tingling sensation.

“Lets go.” She pushed him, and he started walking toward the midnight blue Porsche on the corner.

“This your car?” He whistled. “Sweet!”

She opened the door, “Just shut up and get in.” With little effort, he slid into the seat, for a big man, he moved with grace and ease.

After she sat and buckled them in, he twisted to stare as she put the car into gear, pulling away from the curb. “Are you going to tell me what happened?”

“That Saturday, I decided to take a swim, order breakfast on my way back. A pretty pregnant woman was asking for Dillion Roberts's room.” She smiled up at him, watched his face pale.

“Shit, Veronica...”

“Yeah, Veronica.”

“My sister, she'd left her husband.” He shook his head.

She reddened. “I don't know what to believe.” She sighed, and drove in silence for about thirty minutes before she pulled into a garden neighborhood, stopping at a small brick house.

“Where are we? This can't be your office.”

“It's not.” Lexi whipped out a blade, cut the zip strip. “Come on in.” She stepped from the car, a few seconds later, he followed. They entered her house, he looked around. “Now, why don't you started at the beginning, tell me what's going on.”

For the first time, he looked uncomfortable. “I worked for this outfit, found money missing from the books. When I took it to my boss, he said he'd take care of it. Next thing I knew, the cops were at my door. Asked where I was the night before. Showed me pictures of my boss sliced and diced.”

“Shit, what's you're real name, is it Billy Ray?”

“No, I'm a reporter, working undercover, my name's Dillion Roberts, just like a told you in San Juan.”

“Okay.... Dillion...” She walked over to him, shoved him hard into the sofa. “Lets lay some ground rules.” She strolled over to the marble counter, poured two fingers of Jack, brought him one glass, downing her own. “Rule number one, I make all the rules. Rule number two, there are no other rules. Do you understand?”

“I think so, are you turning me in?”

“Not yet.”

“Why'd you bring me here?”

“Giving you the benefit of a doubt.” She slid onto his lap, her fingers swept over his chest. “Unfinished business, curiosity.”

He lifted his hands to cover hers. “Do you know what you're doing?”

“Not really.” She'd never hear the end of it, it would cost her greatly, but more was going on than she'd been told. “You're the first skip I haven't brought back.”

“Oh?”

“Yeah, oh....” She brushed her full lips across his, sighing a breath, her tongue sweeping their seam, until they opened, and she tasted him. Her legs twined themselves around his waist, his hardness against her softening body.

He groaned, wrapping his hands across her ass, lifting them together. “Bedroom?”

“Second door.” The tip of her tongue licked his lips.

He sighed, resting his forehead against hers, “Jesus.” And he kissed her back, hard.

This wasn't how the day was supposed to end, but what the hell, you only live once.

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 63 (The Saturday Post)

2011-10-22T13:34:00.002-05:00

So, between ortho appointments, shopping, going to the football game...I totally missed the Friday post, but that's okay. This is why I have a blog. I can post today what was supposed to be there yesterday... Okay. Stopping now. Already rambling.

My response to last Monday's flash image.

The Tale of Sandra McNeal

by: Dottie Taylor

word count: 1100

“Mer-rily we go a-long, go a-long, go a-long.” She skipped, her sing-song voice rang throughout the emptiness. It was always dark where she lived. “Mer-rily go a-long..all day lo-ong.” She danced, kicking up the forest ground cover, twirling, her short skirt flared out and twisted around her girlish thighs. Leaves drifted up and down like a small tornado of floating debris.

“Mer-rily we go a-long, all day lo-ong.” A shrill giggle fell from her pale cold lips. She tipped her head up, her short brunette curls floated around her face as she twirled, gazing into the foggy sky. It made her dizzy, it made her feel alive.

She used to be so different, before, back when she could leave the forest.

She glanced down at her bare ankles, bare legs, bare arms and then at the light brush of snow... at least she didn't feel the cold anymore. She was cold all the time, another giggle escaped her lips, and then another, until it sounded more like shrieks.

She wrapped her arms tight around her body, hugging herself, no one else could. She only got scared if she stopped to think about it for too long. No need to dwell on the past, it couldn't be undone.

Another giggle escaped her lips before she dashed across the forest.

*****

A small family gather around the freshly turned mound of Earth. The woman wiped her eyes, bit her bottom lip, it quivered before fresh tears fell. They'd buried an empty coffin, after more a year of not knowing. Sandra's body had never been found, just the blood, so much blood. Police assured her, no one could survive.

Brian wrapped his arms around his mother's trembling shoulders, pressing his lips to her forehead.

“It'll be okay Mom.” He really didn't believe it, but he tried. “You'll see, one day, it'll won't hurt so bad.” She buried her face in his neck, and cried harder.

His father stood a short distance away. He was pale, sickly, Sandra's disappearance had been taken it's toll. He still didn't believe she was... he couldn't say it, she was only missing, she couldn't be.... No, it wasn't possible. This was only a signal, to follow, find her way home.

“Come on Mom, it's cold, lets go home.” Brian rubbed her arms, urged her to the car, but her feet were glued to the ground. “Mom,” he said softly, “come on, please.”

She glanced up at his turquoise eyes, and nodded her head. He shuffled her off to the car, and returned to the small site.

“Dad, we have to leave now. Mom's cold, so are you. Lets go.”

For a long moment, Brian wondered if his father heard him. He lifted his hand, but his father shrugged away.

“No, you go ahead, take your mother home.” He stared at the small grave without a body. “I'll be fine.” He gazed up at his son, “I'll be along.” He turned away to stare into the forest. They'd chosen this place to say goodbye because it was her favorite. He stared hard at the bare branches. Sometimes, if he tried really hard, he could still see her dancing through the leaves. He walked off, away from his son and the small stone, and into the hidden recesses, into the darkness of the leafless trees.

Brian watched his father go, thought about going after him, but instead he trudged back towards the car. It was going to be another long night. He didn't think it would ever end.

*****

Sandra gazed longingly at her father as he made his way deeper into the forest. She missed all her family, even Brian and his smelly cat, Theo.

She walked beside her father, reached out to touch his arm, but her fingers slipped through his coat, flesh, and bone as if nothing was there. But, she knew it wasn't her father who wasn't there, it was her. She leaned in and whispered, “I miss you too Daddy, but you need to go home. Leave me to my forest.”

He stopped as if he heard her faint whisper, then something happened Sandra had never seen before, he started to cry. He fell to his knees. He begged. “Please come home Sandie, please come back to us.”

Sandra would if she could, she'd tried. She couldn't leave the forest. It was her home now. She was tied to it, to it and her killer. “Daddy, go home.” She whispered again.

Finally, her father stood and brushed his knees off. His pants were wetted with melted snow, his hands shook, he was sure it was from the cold. He'd leave, but tomorrow... he'd come back and start looking all over again. He gather himself, muttering as he left.

Sandra watched her father, wished he'd give up. They didn't need to find her body, didn't need to see what was left of her mortal remains. It was just bones now anyway. The huge hacking cuts were gone. The forest called her, and she forgot about her family, at least for now. Then, she grinned, and it split her face from ear to ear.

At least he'd never leave either. He'd hurt her, taken her from her family, and he'd paid. Her thoughts drifted deeper into the forest, to a place where few came, and fewer left.

“Mer-rily we go a-long, all day lo-ong.” She murmured the words to herself and she skipped her way back into the darkest part of the forest.

An old mausoleum rested in it's dark heart, and inside, he awaited for her return. Though, he'd never hurt anyone else... ever again. She'd made sure. She giggled again, more shrill than before. Her revenge was swift and just.

Locked doors no longer mattered, she slipped through the stone wall to find him patiently waiting for her. She rushed up to him, funny she could feel the hard press of his bones. His flesh, what was left of it, sagged loose, a fleshy ghost. He used to cry for release, when he still had a voice. She gazed up at his eye sockets that used to hold muddy brown eyes. He sat next to a coffin filled with forgotten bones, but he was forgotten now as well. No body searched for him, waited for him. No one cared. Except for her. She'd never let him leave.

Life and love, death and unending desire, two faces of the same coin, it only mattered which side the coin fell upon.

Rather dark, not at all what I had intended to write which was going to be a playful ghost story. Instead, murder, mayhem, death, and a haunting. Se la vie....

PS: Crescent Moon Press...ONE OF MY FAVORITE PUBLISHERS... is having a sale, and not only on their website, but through Amazon too. And it a great sale! Discounts on BOTH Kindle and Print editions (and the Kindle app for your computer is FREE!) So, hurry and order, then read! Some great stories being told......and it's only going to last until Halloween, October 31, 2011.....

Ciao! Have a great weekend!

Author Interview: Kinley Baker, Author of Ruined, Talks About Writing

2011-10-19T07:00:00.004-05:00

Hello Everyone in the Blogosphere!

Today I want to welcome Kinley Baker, one of Crescent Moon Press's new authors. I recently reviewed her book, Ruined, and it was great! (I hope you get a chance to pick it up!)

Welcome Kinley!

*applause*

Why don't you start by telling my readers a little bit about yourself?

I absolutely love a good romance and if it makes me laugh and cry along the way, that’s a plus! Laughing out loud is a win especially on a bad day. I live with my husband and dog, Joker, in the Pacific Northwest. I went to college for writing and now I’m finally starting to understand what they were trying to teach me.

What drew you to the craft of writing?

A penchant for matchmaking (which was a disaster in real life) and my personal belief that the world needs more happy endings.

Are you a pantser or plotter?

Panster more than a plotter. Although, I do need to know Goal, Motivation and Conflict for each character before I start. And I generally have an idea of where I’m going with the story. But sometimes there are curves.

When do you like to write? Mornings, Afternoons, Middle of the Night, or somewhere in between (like when the kids sleep)?

I usually get up early. I write on my lunch breaks, in the evening and on the weekends. I’m usually checked out after 8:00 p.m. but I have been known to work later during official edits. I pretty much write whenever I’m not doing something else.

Do you have some favorite music that inspires your writing? A movie? What inspires you?

My Pandora station usually involves Lady Gaga, Adam Lambert, Hinder, The Verve, Eminem, Rihanna, John Mayer, Oasis, Joe Bongiorno, Johnny Cash, David Cook, Dido, and Journey. Consider me versatile. Although sometimes Lady Gaga doesn’t work for fantasy romance. I find most music and movies inspiring. And the ocean. I’m a big fan of foggy beaches and I’ve always wanted to live in a lighthouse on big cliffs.

When you're not writing, do you have a favorite author or genre you enjoy?

I am big on contemporary romances right now. I just picked up Lori Wilde and she makes me laugh and cry. Can’t get better than that. I’ve read tons of paranormal, but I’m going through an odd stage where I can’t seem to read it at the moment.

What advice would you give to others in the journey to becoming published?

I would tell aspiring authors to keep writing, to believe in their stories and prepare for a rough road. I’m writing a post that might be relevant to this question. It will post on October 14th and if you follow me on Twitter, I’ll be tweeting about it that day.

Did you have a long line of submissions before you “got the call”?

Ruined definitely made the submission rounds. I queried at least fifty agents. A lot of them told me fantasy romance wasn’t selling. I didn’t have a ton of success until I started submitting directly to Editors, who at least had positive things to say. I received some great feedback from Editors that helped me find a home at Crescent Moon Press.

Where can we find you and your books?

My home base on the internet is www.kinleybaker.com.

I’m also on Twitter at www.twitter.com/kinleybaker

Facebook at www.facebook.com/kinleybaker. I have a page here: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kinley-Baker/196649877015210.

I also blog if you don’t have enough ways to stalk me yet. Lol. http://authorkinleybaker.blogspot.com. My books are on Amazon @ http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=ruined+by+kinley+baker&x=0&y=0

Barnes & Noble @ http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ruined-kinley-baker/1104429885?ean=9781937254148&itm=1&usri=ruined%2bby%2bkinley%2bbaker in eBook and Print forms.

Share with us something about your current book.

Right now, I’m spending time with Caleb, the leader of the Varner. Caleb rocks! I’m having a lot of fun writing his book. I love his heroine. I didn’t think I’d ever love someone more than Jessa, but I do. Don’t tell Jessa. I’m working on getting Ruined II wrapped up and over to my publisher now. Some really emotional parts have been hanging me up because they were so hard to write. But I think they will be worth it!

What are your future plans for your series? Are you cooking up a new one?

Ruined is part of a trilogy. I’m currently wavering over Book 3 because some of the characters in Book 2 piped up and want their story told now, too. I do want to write Ari’s story. I’m going to worry about getting Caleb’s story told first, then I’ll figure out Book 3 in case vital information changes during my edits on Book 2.

I can't wait to read Caleb's story! He's such a strong leader, not easily misled or twisted, but still so tortured...having been driven from his homeland. Oh, I'm really going to look forward to him!

I do have a few other series in the works, but nothing contracted yet.

Some fun stuff!

Coffee, Tea, or Something Harder?

Can I choose all three? Lol. It depends on the time of day.

Cake or Ice Cream (or both, what flavor)?

Although I do have coffee flavored ice cream in the freezer, it’s been sitting there for a long time. Can I choose chips? I am a big chip addict. The sweet stuff doesn’t call to me anymore. I’m not a fan of cake, but I try to keep that quiet since people get pretty passionate about chocolate.

Favorite all-time movie?

Ever After. I think if you like Ever After, you’ll probably like Ruined. *crosses fingers*

Well, Ever After is one of my favorites and I loved Ruined, so I think you may be right! I loved Drew Barrymore and Dougray Scott in the classic Cinderella story...ahhhh... so lovely! I can see a little Cinderella in Jessa! And a little Prince Charming is Vale...in a larger than life kind of way!

Favorite paranormal creature?

Shadow Shifters like in Ruined :-) I’m biased. But I also have a story about a succubus I want to write. I’m not really picky when it comes to super powers or magic. It’s all cool and I’m jealous of all the people who have special abilities. That’s why I write about them. I live vicariously through my characters.

Your Shadow Shifters are so cool, folding shadows to move through space, loved it! Of course, vampires are my reigning favs! Not often can someone offer to bite you and it feels good, hehe.

Thank you so much for the awesome interview, Dottie! I really enjoyed answering the questions.

Thank you for visiting with us today Kinley! It has been a pleasure!

Dead Mann Walking by Stefan Petrucha

2011-10-18T00:01:00.003-05:00

Publisher: Roc, The Penguin Group
Pages: 352

(Released: October 4, 2011)

From the Cover:

After Hessius Mann was convicted of his wife's murder, suppressed evidence came to light and the verdict was overturned...-...too bad he was already executed. But thanks to the miracles of modern science Hessius was brought back to life. Sort of.

Now that he's joined the ranks of Fort Hammer's pulse-challenged population, Hessius attempts to make a "living" as a private investigator. But when a missing persons case leads to a few zombies cut to pieces, Hessius starts thinking that someone's giving him the run-around-and it's not like he's in any condition to make a quick getaway...

Hessius Mann can't catch a break (and maybe he doesn't want to...first aid involves super glue and thread).

First, his wife has an affair with his boss. He knows because pictures show up in his email, displayed in all their glory and living color. Hess rushes home to confront his wife and finds her beaten to death. Everyone knows he has a temper, and when the PD, along with his boss, arrives on his heels, Hess is accused of a murder he swears he didn't commit.

After he's relieved of his mortal life, it's found that the police (mainly his boss, Thomas Booth) suppressed DNA evidence at his trial. Too bad he's already in his grave. But, through the wonder of modern science and without his permission, he's brought back and into a new existence. An immortal (sort of) existence, one of the walking dead, or Chakz (which means jerky...dried meat) as they're referred to, and trying to make a living as a private detective (the PD doesn't employ chakz cops).

Hessius has to admit, it's damn hard to be a PI. See, his kind doesn't remember so well, nor do they move as easy, or frankly, smell as nice as a liveblood. He's luckier than most, he can almost pass for the living, he's one of high functioning few. When reanimation came to be, loved ones were randomly brought back, that is until a few went feral, eating a liveblood is strictly forbidden. Then, the discrimination started.

When William Turgeon steps into his office with a missing person case, he figures he's struck gold, a healthy payday for a chak. Only this missing person is also a chak, Frank Boyle, and it gets stranger from there. Much stranger as his investigation continues.

Dead Mann Walking by Stefan Petrucha is the first in the Hessius Mann Series. It's the story of what happens when, through the magic of science, the wrongly executed are given a second chance at... a kind of life. When Hessius Mann is reanimated, it's to find himself out of a job and with more enemies than he can count (which isn't be very high anyway, not with his new swiss cheese memory). There's also the segment of the population (which is almost everyone) who hated the chakz, they want them segregated from society, and would like them all destroyed. Including Hess Mann. William Turgeon offers him a chance to help another of his kind. So, his search for Frank Boyle begins. But then a strange thing happens, he starts to unravel a tangled mystery. Several chakz have gone missing, just like the one whose head is the only thing missing piece with it's body parts scattered throughout the desert. And Mann can't get it out of his head. Can the reanimated were really die? It haunts him, like a nightmare, only nightmares can make chakz feral, it's a thin line to walk, and he's kind of clumsy anyway. The one thing that keeps him grounded is his assistant, an ex-addict, Misty (she also keeps him patched up). But, Turgeon may not be who he says he is and neither is the billionaire who has a weird fascination for chakz.

Dead Mann Walking is a great beginning to a new zombie series, a zombie series with a twist, a noir twist (also a great twist on the title in more ways than one). Stefan Petrucha creates a near future world where science as achieved what only God has been able to do...so far. Science allows for those who shouldn't have died to be given new life. The only trouble is that it's a temporary fix because, eventually, all chakz goes feral, it's just a matter of time. Then there's the damage to body parts that have a tendency to break or fall off, you know, like ears and noses, maybe even fingers and toes. Petrucha delivers his tale with one line jabs, generous amounts of humor, and horrific as well as graphic details (I mean, cutting the rot from some chak's body parts or bleaching the mildew away... ewwww....lol, kind of makes it all too real). And then there's the bad guy and how he rids himself of chak he really doesn't want. It's a must read for urban fantasy fans and horror fans alike, and even room for the adventurous noir or mystery/thriller/chiller readers willing to take a chance. Though it contains little true romance, it has a romantic feel to it, Hess speaks with romance in his words. It's not your typical zombie, Night of the Living Dead, type of story. I very much enjoyed it and can't wait for the next in the series. 5 out of 5 fairy kisses for this reader.

I received my copy for review from the author, Stefan Petrucha. All opinions expressed are my own.

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 63

2011-10-17T07:00:00.002-05:00

Good Monday Morning Lovelies!

We're halfway through the month....14 days until Halloween! So, how about another image to stir the dark of your desires with this Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge?

Today's image is another I found while browsing through Deviant Arts website (if you haven't made your way there yet, you should, some absolutely amazing talent!)

Hope everyone comes up with some wonderful Halloween themed flash.... tis the time to be scary!!

The rules remain the same, 350 words or somewhere around there (who knows?) and come back Friday to post your flash. But, most important, have fun!

Ciao Bella! (^_^)

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 62, The Friday Post

2011-10-14T10:41:00.008-05:00

So.... it's been a really long week! But, I decided, what the hell... I'd give this week's (and last week's) flash image a shot, so you're getting a kind of two for special.

The images......

The Flash......

The Way Home

by: Dottie Taylor

word count: 900

Sam stared down the long emptiness of the dark road. Lightning flashed across the midnight sky, the only light. It was like sensory deprivation. No insects chirped to fill his ears, no breeze ruffled the ends of his dark hair, no car engines idled to attract his attention, no light bled from occupied windows. When he lifted his nose to the nighttime air, it smelled... stale, plain. Where was the scent of garden flowers? This scent of unclean bodies?

Nothing existed here, only death waited.

Is this what the Afterlife looked like? Is this Heaven or is it Hell? Somewhere in between? How could he tell?

The old preacher told stories of the Gates to Heaven, where the Archangel Gabriel stood, heralding the worthy with a mighty blast of his horn, turning away those too infected to receive forgiveness.

What was his fate?

Sam continued his way, passing empty windows, catching a glimpse of his distorted countenance. He appeared drained, sallow, a bag of bones with flesh tightly stretched over them. Was this a lie, a deception? Or did the truth fill his eyes?

“Come, Samuel.” A whispered voice clung to ear, dripping with the tenderness of a sucking leech, but nothing stirred and no one appeared. “This way Samuel, the boat awaits.”

He felt himself pushed forward as the voice prodded him, not sure what it all meant. If this was real... how come it felt like a dream? Then, true darkness surrounded him, his consciousness fell away.

So, this is what death felt like?

When next he came back to himself... he sat in a boat, alone, on a darkened looking glass lake. The boat floated of it's own accord, no oar moved it, no wind carried it or engine propelled it. It drifted with a lazy direction, steady but sure.

“Look Samuel, look where I have brought you.” The voiced caressed him, with almost a loving touch.

Sam glanced around, but it was so black, his eyes registered little.

“Look deeper, harder, fool. Destiny awaits you.” The voice held a malicious tone, his pale flesh wanted to creep away, the crawling sensation shook his body.

He squeezed his eyes shut tight, begged for the finish of the endless night. Laughter peeled around him, and he wrapped his tired arms across his shivering body.

A house came into view, stark white against the black of night. His destination. The boat came to rest on the mossy shore, and he climbed out on unsteady legs, and it floated away without him.

How long had he sailed? He felt weak, his body depleted.

Sam watched the boat makes it's eery way back to the never-never, and a hand gripped his shoulder, first skeletal, then flesh, then skeletal again. A skull stared back at him, then fleshed out, and a beautiful woman stood before him.

“We've been waiting for you. You're late!” She exclaimed. “And for your own party!” Sudden lights glowed in the house, music filled his ears. It hadn't been that way before.

“Wel-come to the Ho-tel Cal-i-fornia....” Slowly filled the black night. “Such a lovely place. Such a lovely face.” And the woman led him onward. “They're living it up at the Ho-tel Cal-i-fornia. What a nice surprise, bring your al-i-bis!”

“What is this place?” Sam turned to the woman as she flashed back to skull, limp straggles of hair hung about her face, before she fleshed out again. He tried to release her hand, but her grip grew tighter.

“And in their master's chambers, they gathered for big feast, they stabbed it with their steely knives, but they just can't kill... the... beast!” The song continued to resonate through his body as he tugged his hand to leave.

“Please, I don't want to be here, I don't belong here.” He reassured the woman, but her cold grip drew him forward. He stood in the doorway. There were others standing within the room, all eyes faced him, and he drew a harsh breath. Not one bore evidence of a soul. All were as black as the surrounding night.

“The last thing I remember, I was running for the door. I had to find the passage back to the place I was before...” The music sang.

Sam turned, the door sealed tight. He pounded his fist against it's steely grain and screamed, “Let me out of here!” And laughter fell from the air again.

“Relax. Said the Nightman, we are... programmed... to receive... You can checkout anytime you like, but you can never leave!” The song concluded.

“Is that what this place is then?” The woman still stood at his side. Fleshed out again, but with the same deadened eyes.

“This place is what you make of it.” Her musical voice rang out, and she smiled her skullish smile, finishing with a cackle. Her lips stretched taunt over her scaly bones, then flesh filled her face again, and her smile became wondrous. With a will of their own, his lips itched to touch the cool paleness of hers. He stopped himself, moments later a skeleton grinned back at him.

Then the music started again. “Wel-come to the Ho-tel Cal-i-fornia....”

“Welcome to Hell.” It should have sung, his destiny, his new found home. “And you can never leave.” His fate fulfilled.

And the guitar played on.

Well, I always felt the Eagles needed a story to go along with their song. I think the images do the song justice!

Have a great weekend, my lovelies! And tune in Monday for another image of demented desire....muwhahahaha! (I feel kind of Vincent Price-ish today...)

Ciao!

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 62 (The Wednesday Edition)

2011-10-12T09:42:00.005-05:00

Good Wednesday Morning!

I miss posting Monday because after a long week of attending the MuseItUp Online Writers Conference and a long weekend of Homecoming festivities (pictures to come), my cold/allegeries/death-like symptoms and I were hacking up both of our lungs. I passed out and slept instead. Then, Tuesday was already spoken for (by the way.... stop and enter the contest!!!)... so today, I'm posting the Flash Fiction Challenge!

(Since I couldn't enlarge it anymore, I elongated it a bit so you could see the detail...it's fantastic! If you click on the image, it should enlarge, hopefully..)

It's a lovely image I found on deviant arts free stock, they have some really great stuff over there, check it out!

The rules remain the same, but abbreviated... Friday is just a couple days away! Come back on Friday and post your response to the image, somewhere around 350 words (up to you....).

Tener diversión y ser creativo!!

Have a great week and a better weekend!!

Author Guest Post: Kimber An + Sweet Bytes Giveaway

2011-10-11T00:01:00.043-05:00

Today of my blog, I'd like to welcome Kimber An!

*applause*

She's going to tell us about her new novel:

Sweet Bytes, Book Three, The Ophelia Dawson Chronicles!

Going All The Way By Kimber An

Okay, that’s a loaded phrase.

It can mean a lot of things.

I stand upon the third book in the Ophelia Dawson series and there are five books, which means Sweet Bytes is the middle book, the pivot on which the series turns.

What does it mean?

One, the entire series going all the way to publication - that was in question in August. My previous publisher declined Sweet Bytes. I assumed self-publication was the only way it’d see the light of day, but my buddies at Fabulously Young ePubs (http://fabulouslyyoungepubs.blogspot.com/) encouraged me to ask around. And Noble YA (https://www.nobleyoungadult.com/) picked it up.

Two, going all the way on the plot - conflict after conflict makes a weak series. I’ve loved other series long enough to know, you’ve got to go all the way. Luke Skywalker must learn Darth Vader is his father and then he must defeat and redeem him to bring the Star Wars saga to a satisfying conclusion.

Three, the heroine goes all the way to her edge, this one’s hardest. My instinct is to mommy-coddle Ophelia. If I don’t let her go, she can never reach her greatest potential and the series will fizzle and die. But, how far is far enough? And how far is too far? The Villain would like to rape her (he’s so twisted, he thinks its love) but is that too far in Young Adult? Would it assassinate the Heroine if I let the Villain get away with it? Or, would it force her to dig even deeper and come back even stronger?

“That which does not kill us makes us stronger.”

Four, okay the fun one, the Heroine goes all the way with Hero in the lovemaking department. Ophelia’s true love is Adrian, always has been and always will be. She empathically bonded him to herself in the very first book when she was only sixteen. Technically, I can let them go all the way once she turns eighteen and she comes of age in the next book, Blood, Dark and Sweet. For some YA, that’s a no-no and understandably so. Lovemaking has life-altering consequences, even when morality is not an issue. YA authors need to handle it carefully in their stories. At Noble YA, the readership is older though, eighteen to twenty-four. Adrian and Ophelia are a bonded couple. That’s practically married, according to the Borean Empaths. Once they’re grown up, what’s to stop them?

Well, the plot for one thing. It’s gotta work for the whole story, and the whole series. I think of the whole series as one big story, as a matter of fact.

One thing’s for sure, I’ve already promised a Happily Ever After. I can make that promise because the series is done in my head, so, actually, I already know the answers to all the above questions. I’m just not telling you! Mwa-ha-ha! ;)

Sweet Bytes is due out October 17th. Please comment to enter a drawing for a free copy. There will also be a Grand Prize to celebrate the event, something really cool and Alaskan.

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Here’s the Sweet Bytes blurb-
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Ophelia’s escape from Martin, an Addicted Newblood, came at a terrible sacrifice. Adrian, the boy she loves, is now infected and hunted like vermin.
As her new Protector, Tristan Li represents the Oldblood determination to destroy Adrian, along with all the Newbloods, addicted or not.
In her grief, Ophelia hates everything about Tristan, until his subtle strength empowers her to resist being turned into a vampire by the High Prefect.
As Tristan helps Ophelia harness her empathic ability, his need for redemption rings in her heart. Her own strength grows, along with her passion for freedom.
The veil of mourning lifts.
The evil of Martin returns.
Ophelia seizes ownership of her destiny.
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Thank you! And a big thanks to Dottie for having me here today.

Kimber An
www.kimberan.com

Kimber would like to giveaway a copy of her book, Sweet Bytes, so please remember to comment!!

The Passing of a Wizard...Steve Jobs, Gone But Never Forgotten

2011-10-05T19:26:00.002-05:00

As many of you know, Apple computers are my computer of choice. I'm sadden by the passing of the visionary who made it possible for the personal computer to exist in the form it is today, for the many users out there, the millions of people who use a personal computer everyday. Without Steve Jobs, the mouse, computer screen, ease of access and use may not have existed. He made computers user friendly, he motivated wonder, encouraged innovation. He changed how we watched the movies that we love, Pixar grew from his image. He has brought magic into the lives of Apple product users. The iMac, iBook, Macbooks, iPod, iPhones, and iPad are all a part of everyday life.

My heart breaks a little at his passing. A shadow has fallen over the industry. My thoughts and prayers to his family and friends. May he rest and have peace. I'm sure his work will continue through others who shared his vision. He will be missed.

Monday Morning Flash Fiction Challenge, Week 61 (The Evening Edition)

2011-10-03T22:19:00.001-05:00

Good Evening Flash Fiction Geniuses!

This is going to be short and sweet, because I'm exhausted! I've been running all day (I was interview by the local college television station, how weird is that?), had to shop for homecoming for my son, and I've been coughing so hard, I know bronchitis is in my future....

So... here's the....

Today's image is one I found on the deviant art free stock, I've been looking for Halloweenie type of images...so, here's the one I chose for today....

A little creepy...but not too bad...

The rules remain the same, 350 word (or somewhere around there) and come back Friday to post your response.

Thanks y'all...

And may the muse be with you!

Ciao!