The Invitation by @Danawrite @etopiapress #witch #romance #Halloween

Blurb:

Every witch needs a familiar. Sometimes maybe two…

Morgana is a hedge witch with a problem. Her sisters are
conspiring against her and she has a ghost with a fork phobia living in her
shoe closet. When the chance comes to crash a party she just knows she should
have been invited to comes along, she enlists the aid of her trusty cat Nona to
help her cast the spell for the perfect dress. But crashing this party isn't
the only thing that’s going to rain on this witch’s parade.

Marcus of Pendleton is a cat shifter in search of his
brother. Then a lead at the Warty Frog takes him on an adventure filled with
magic and well…zombies. Can the prince find the fair witch and the answer he
seeks? And he might just be the familiar she's looking for...

Pages: 51

Genre-paranormal romance, fantasy romance, low heat rating,
shifters, m/f

Buy link:

Amazon: http://goo.gl/m3kBlS

Tags-shifter, fantasy, witch, fairy tale twist, ghosts, cats

Excerpt:

“He’s been missing for months. How can you not care?” Marcus
Pendleton ground out, staring at his father in disbelief. The king sat on his
throne gnawing on a turkey leg, grease sliding down his pudgy face.

“Because my boy, Rhys was the younger son. He may have been
a prince, but you’re the one who will inherit the throne.”

“So why did you bother searching the kingdom for a princess
and having a ball?”

The king narrowed his eyes at his son. “That happened to be
for you. Scheduling a dragon-hunting trip for that weekend was in atrocious
form. Your mother was highly disappointed.”

“I’ll bet.” Marcus kicked his foot against the dais. He
fought down the urge to shift and show his father his extreme displeasure. No
doubt the old man would have an apoplectic fit if he found out his son had been
bitten and turned into the one animal he despised the most. Not even a beast
like a wolf, but merely a cat. His father loathed the animals and forbade
having them on the castle grounds.

“You need to focus on finding yourself a princess, not
running about the kingdoms slaying beasts and bothering with that fool brother
of yours. The last time anyone saw him, he was following some skirt around and
blathering on about a missing shoe.” His father shuddered, holding his hand up
in disgust. “There were twelve of them. All dressed alike too. The men were
talking about it. Prattling, dancing, blonde things with wings.” His wandering
eye drifted toward a serving wench with a rather tight bodice.

Marcus couldn’t believe his ears. Twelve of them? That
didn’t sound right. Neither did his father’s decision not look for Rhys. It was
unthinkable. Right now, if he could have, he would dump his inheritance in his father’s
lap and be done with him. The man’s priorities were limited to two things. Food
and sleep.

No. Make it three. His father had the wandering eye of a
lecherous pig farmer. He didn’t know how his mother stood it. Given the chance,
he was surprised she hadn’t chucked him over the palace walls years ago and
been done with it.

“Wait, Father. Did you say he was sniffing around a girl
with a missing shoe?”

“Yes,” his father chuffed. “What of it?”

“What of it, indeed…” Marcus stalked out of the throne room,
an idea forming in his head. Someone else must have seen a shoeless maiden, and
he was damn well going to find out what was going on. And twelve girls all
dressed the same? How very odd indeed. He wasn’t known as the best tracker in
the two kingdoms for naught. If he couldn’t find out something about them, he
may as well go sit up in the tower and sew with his mother’s handmaidens.

“Marcus. Come back here. Marcus!”

He shut the door on his father’s ranting, encountering his
servant boy on the other side of the door.

“Geoffrey, Saddle my horse. Tonight we ride.”

About the author:

Dana Wright has always had a fascination with things that go
bump in the night. She is often found playing at local bookstores, trying not
to maim herself with crochet hooks or knitting needles, watching monster movies
with her husband and furry kids or blogging about books. More commonly, she is
chained to her computers, writing like a woman possessed. She is currently
working on several children's stories, young adult fiction, romantic suspense,
short stories and is trying her hand at poetry. She is a contributing author to
Ghost Sniffer’s CYOA, Siren’s Call E-zine in their “Women in Horror” issue in
February 2013 and "Revenge" in October 2013, a contributing author to
Potatoes!, Fossil Lake, Of Dragons and Magic: Tales of the Lost Worlds, Undead
in Pictures, Potnia, Shadows and Light, Dark Corners (upcoming), Wonderstruck,
Shifters: A Charity Anthology, Dead Harvest, Monster Diaries, Holiday Horrors
and the Roms, Bombs and Zoms Anthology from Evil Girlfriend Media. She is the
author of Asylum, The Invitation and Texas Twister.   Dana has also reviewed music for
Muzikreviews.com specializing in New Age and alternative music and has been a
contributing writer to Eternal Haunted Summer, Massacre Magazine, Metaphor
Magazine, The Were Traveler October 2013 edition: The Little Magazine of
Magnificent Monsters, the December 2013 issue The Day the Zombies Ruled the
Earth. She currently reviews music at New Age Music Reviews and Write a Music
Review.

Follow Dana’s reviews:

Twitter: @danawrite

Author site and newsletter:
http://danawrightauthor.wix.com/danawright

Facebook fan page: https://www.facebook.com/danawrightauthor

The Romance Reviews:
http://www.theromancereviews.com/DanaWright

Fall Gardening with @EMMAJLANE It's not too late to make your garden great!

by Emma Lane

Gardens grow of their own volition. You labor with the lay out and lovingly place the plants. By the third year, your garden has selected what it will and will not accept. But it’s gorgeous, healthy and you wouldn’t change a single thing. (Okay, maybe you’ll move that fragrant dianthus in front of that balloon flower which is taller.) Some of it is your fault because you couldn’t resist that church sale and your neighbor shared several perennials. Status normal. Allow your garden nostalgia. You show it off by saying, “I got that one for next to nothing on sale, Susan Smith gave me that one when she moved to Florida, I miss her so! My mother-in-law finally broke down and shared that rose. Would you believe how she can make cuttings and root them?” This iris came from … and that one came from…

SEASONAL: Do plan spring shrubs/bulbs which are so welcome. Fall red/yellow leaves.

INVASIVE: When someone mentions the plant is invasive, believe it! I love the golden blooms of Rudbeckia Goldstrum, but it will take over if given the chance. Plant it way over there where you can mow it if need be; same with any sort of mint.

PARTNERSHIPS: Delphenium back up to fences almost poetically, a partnership. Peonies are almost small bushes. I love to make a back ground hedge row from them. Yellow coreopsis and red yarrow are made in heaven for hot colors.

FRIENDSHIP: The deer, rabbits, groundhog, the neighbor’s pets, etc have destroyed some of your hard work? This is your opportunity to share and discover new friends. What better way to become acquainted? You’ll learn to laugh and maybe learn new gardening secrets while you commiserate.

Now that your garden is all you want it to be, take a good book and relax in all that beauty. May I suggest my new release?

Can an arrogant duke overcome his prejudice against a beautiful but managing female in time to find true love and happiness?

Miss Amabel Hawkins acknowledges her unusual upbringing, but she thinks James Langley, the Duke of Westerton, might be a tad unbalanced when he protests her efforts to right his badly managed properties. The duke, who has been away on the king's business, demonstrates no respect for the beautiful but managing Miss Hawkins. Amabel has taken refuge at Westerton, fleeing from a forced marriage to a man who claims to be her relative in order to gain control of her young brother's estate.

The Duke arrives home to find his estate under the firm control of a beautiful but managing female. His suspicions are fueled by his recent task of spy-hunting and he wonders if Amabel Hawkins is just who she seems. While a dastardly spy lurks, a wicked man poses as her cousin threatening to take over the guardianship of her young brother. Amabel might be falling in love, but she knows for certain the duke would never approve of a meddlesome woman, and she decides to flee his estate. Will the duke finally realize the true value of the woman he loves or will his prejudice ruin his chances forever?

EXCERPT
Fatigue and the effects of the brandy on top of the ale now gave his gait a distinct wobble. He chuckled, amused at his condition.

As he reached for the portrait of great Uncle Barney, he lurched into the back of the red leather sofa in front of the cosy fire. “Deuce take it,” he exclaimed when a rounded arm rolled into view. He spotted the gentle curve of a hip and walked around to the front, where he spied a tumbled haze of dark curls hiding a face. It is indeed a female—a sleeping female.

Who was she? The gown was too rich for his household staff. Curious, he knelt beside the sofa.
“Only one way to find out,” he whispered and moved one dark curl. He sat back, satisfied when a handsome face swam into view. She sighed and rolled over, revealing a generous figure and a pair of rosy lips. She might be Sleeping Beauty—but not one of my relatives. He leaned over and kissed those tempting lips.

As he lingered there, she sighed and came partially awake. He could not resist. He deepened the kiss and sounds of satisfaction like yum and umm came from those delicious lips. Her hand stroked his face, then reached around his head to pull him closer. Delighted with this turn of events, the Duke of Westerton complied enthusiastically and extended an arm around a slender waist. How much of the ale and brandy had he imbibed? Dizziness overcame his senses as he slid down on the floor and knew no more.

Amazon buy link

Emma Lane is a gifted author who writes under several pen-names. She lives with her patient husband on several acres outside a typical American village in Western New York. Her day job is working with flowers at her son’s plant nursery. Look for information about writing and plants on her new website. Leave a comment or a gardening question and put a smile on Emma's face.

Stay connected to Emma on Facebook and Twitter.

No moving forward without first going back - @sharonledwith @MirrorWorldPub #timetravel

There is no moving forward without first going back.

Lilith was a young girl with dreams and a family before the final destruction of Atlantis shattered those dreams and tore her family apart. Now refugees, Lilith and her father make their home in the Black Land. This strange, new country has no place in Lilith’s heart until a beloved high priestess introduces Lilith to her life purpose—to be a Timekeeper and keep time safe.

Summoned through the seventh arch of Atlantis by the Children of the Law of One, Lilith and her newfound friends are sent into Atlantis’s past, and given a task that will ultimately test their courage and try their faith in each other. Can the Timekeepers stop the dark magus Belial before he changes the seers’ prophecy? If they fail, then their future and the earth’s fate will be altered forever.


EXCERPT
“Why are you here?” Lilith asked. “You’ve already got your life seal.”

“I have more questions for Istulo.” She continued to stare at the disk.

Lilith sighed. “My name is Lilith. What’s your name?”

Her shoulders relaxed slightly. A hint of a smile broke out on her face. Her upturned nose wiggled. “She-Aba. I was born here in the Black Land. Both my parents arrived from Atlantis fourteen years ago yesterday. My mother gave birth to me the next day.”

Lilith perked up. “That would make today your birthday!”

She-Aba beamed. “Yes. That’s why I’m here. For my birthday last year, I had my life reading done by Istulo. But recently, there’s been a hiccup in my plans. It’s like my life seal rearranged itself, and now I’m confused. I’m here for a reaffirmation.”

“What’s the problem?”

She-Aba traced her life seal with the tip of her perfectly shaped fingernail. “My lifetime occupation was supposed to be to design clothing for the people of the various positions in the court and temples.”

Lilith smirked. “That makes perfect sense.”

“I know, right? So why, all of a sudden, would my life seal change from designing clothing to something completely different?”

Lilith arched a fair brow. “How different?”

“Well, instead of clothing people in lavish robes and gowns for others to appreciate, the seal suggests that I’ll be doing the opposite by covering up and hiding the truth. I don’t understand it at all. I thought my life was all planned out for me.”

“I thought mine was too, until my country blew up and slid into the ocean,” Lilith muttered.

“Hey, look at the bright side, at least your hair isn’t red like mine.”

Lilith eyed She-Aba carefully. “What’s wrong with red hair? My uncle has red hair and it suits him fine.”

She-Aba moved in closer. “If you haven’t noticed already, there aren’t many redheads around here. The natives think red is magical, and anyone with red hair is considered a freak of nature.”

“That’s ridiculous!” Lilith said loud enough to cause an echo down the marble hallway. “Is that the reason why those artists were rude to you? Because you have red hair?”

“Red is a very powerful color,” a raspy voice said from behind both girls.

Lilith and She-Aba jumped. They slowly turned to find Istulo hovering over them.

Wearing the same white gown and orichalcum headband Lilith saw her dressed in before, Istulo nodded slightly before she said, “Red represents the essence of life—if we are drained of blood, we are drained of energy. The people of the Black Land understand this, and therefore red is reserved only for their gods and goddesses.”

Lilith giggled. “Don’t tell She-Aba that, she’ll think she’s a goddess.”

BUY LINKS
Amazon Kindle - Paperback

Mirror World Publishing eBook - Paperback

Barnes & Noble Nook - Paperback

Sharon Ledwith is the author of the middle-grade/YA time travel series, THE LAST TIMEKEEPERS, available through Mirror World Publishing, and is represented by Walden House (Books & Stuff) for her teen psychic series, MYSTERIOUS TALES FROM FAIRY FALLS. When not writing, researching, or revising, she enjoys reading, exercising, anything arcane, and an occasional dram of scotch. Sharon lives a serene, yet busy life in a southern tourist region of Ontario, Canada, with her hubby, one spoiled yellow Labrador and a moody calico cat.

Learn more about Sharon Ledwith on her website and blog. Stay connected on Facebook and Twitter, Google+, and Goodreads. Look up her Amazon Author page and her Amazon Author U.K. Page for a list of current books.

Check out THE LAST TIMEKEEPERS TIME TRAVEL SERIES Facebook page.

#NewRelease His Temporary Fix by @SofiaGreyAuthor @EntangledSelect #militaryromance

Book title: His Temporary Fix (a Love at the Beach novella)

Author: Sofia Grey

Release date: 26 October 2015

Publisher: Entangled Select

Genre: Contemp military romance

Tagline: One night is all it takes

Blurb:

Holly Jacobs loses her heart a little too easily. Never again. But when she meets the sexy soldier on the beach, Holly knows she's in big trouble. Zack Winter is gorgeous and in pain, and when he kisses Holly, all of her resolve melts away...

Zack is on short-term leave to attend a funeral, and he's walking a fine line. The loss is unbearable...and he'll do whatever it takes to distract himself from it. Especially if it means a night of searingly-hot sex with Holly Jacobs. Only his brilliant idea isn't exactly going according to plan.

One night isn't nearly enough. But if it goes much longer it might end in broken hearts…

Excerpt:

I ran the few yards, shouting “Gwen, Lily, heel.” They ignored me. By the time I reached him, the guy had sat up, a dazed expression on his face. He looked young, not much older than me, with dark eyes in a tanned face and what I figured was several days’ worth of rough stubble. Hot in a rugged, edgy way.

He tugged off the cap and ran a wet hand through short dark hair, and I caught a glimpse of dogtags on his chest. His gaze flicked up to me, and the breath caught in my throat. I’d expected to see anger, but instead, he looked lost.

Dropping to a crouch by his side, I tried to grab the girls before they did further damage. “I am so sorry.” Gwen barged into me, the force knocking me forward onto my knees and almost into his arms. Could I be any more embarrassed? “They don’t normally behave like this.” I grabbed at their collars, but they danced out of reach. Of course. “They must like you.” Jesus, how lame. I cringed when the words left my mouth, but it drew a hint of a smile from him.

“I guess.” He shoved at the wet sand and scrambled to his feet, then held out a hand to me. It would have been rude to refuse, so I let him help me up. His grip was strong and sure, albeit wet and sandy, and I tried not to stare at his sodden trousers. Lift your eyes, Holly. Muscles were clearly defined under his T-shirt, and the jacket did little to hide the breadth of his shoulders.

I focused on catching the dogs and managed to grab Lily on her next pass. Before she could wriggle free I clipped the chain to her collar. Now for Gwen, always the rebel. “I’m sorry,” I repeated into the silence. “I had no idea they’d do that. Are you okay?”

I got the distinct impression he wasn’t listening. He glanced first at his hand, then at his boots. “It’s gone,” he mumbled. “I’ve fucking dropped it.” He hunkered down and swished around in the shallow water. “Help me. I can’t lose it.”

Holding Lily securely, I bent down beside him. “What are we looking for?”

“A bracelet.”

I peered into the water. The light was fading fast, and our chances of finding anything were slim at best, but I caught a glimmer of something near my foot. I swooped to grab it before the next ripple shifted the sand, and my fingers closed around smooth metal. A silver link bracelet with blue stones and a flat silver plate with a name engraved. I squinted to read it. Marie?

“This one?” I held out the piece of jewelry and even in the semidarkness I saw his eyes light up and a smile break out across his face. Wow. I thought he was hot before, but he was actually gorgeous.

“Thank you.” He closed his fist around it and held it close to his chest. Marie must be his girlfriend. Or wife. Even a baby daughter. My imagination ran riot.

“It’s very pretty. Does that say Marie?” I should have slunk away at that point, but the desolation that flooded his eyes kept me locked in place.

“Marnie.” It was just a whisper. He swallowed hard. “Her name was Marnie.”

There’s always that moment where you have to make a choice. To walk away or to get involved in someone’s problems, and God knew, I’d been tangled in too many people’s issues already. But how could I walk away? He looked as though his entire world had crashed down around his feet. I’d beat myself up for it later, but right now, I had to stay. “That’s a beautiful name. Your girlfriend?” Was. He said her name was Marnie, my subconscious shrieked. Past tense.

Trailer link:   https://youtu.be/8zdmj4Xf_zg

Book links: Amazon | Goodreads

Author links:  www.SofiaGrey.com

Goodreads | Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter | Amazon

Author bio:

Romance author Sofia Grey spends her days managing projects in the corporate world and her nights hanging out with wolf shifters and alpha males. She devours pretty much anything in the fiction line, but she prefers her romances to be hot, and her heroes to have hidden depths. When writing, she enjoys peeling back the layers to expose her characters’ flaws and always makes them work hard for their happy endings.

Music is interwoven so tightly into my writing that I can’t untangle the two. Either I’m listening to a playlist on my iPod, have music seeping from my laptop speakers, or there’s a song playing in my head – sometimes on auto-repeat.

Check out the playlist for His Temporary Fix on Spotify: http://bit.ly/1PxDl8w

Read the first chapter here: http://www.entangledpublishing.com/his-temporary-fix/

What reviewers are saying about His Temporary Fix:

“One sentence in and these characters drew me into their world, and had me hanging on every word. Their touching story captured my heart.” – Misty

“This was a very enjoyable quick read. ”  – Betty

“I do love reading novella's for a quick fix, a quick pick-me-up, in between long novels. When they can pack emotion, connection with the characters, a great plot and storyline into less than 120 pages, well, that leaves me very satisfied and wanting to read more by the author. His Temporary Fix gave me all that and then some. ”   – Lee

For a chance to win any ebook from Sofia's backlist AND a swag bundle, leave your details in this Google form. One name will be drawn on the 31st October, and yes, she will send swag worldwide :)

http://goo.gl/forms/Dz0QCTQMVz

Wicked Reads Blog Hop #freeread #giveaway @HennesseeAndrew

For a Halloween treat, I'm bringing back a witchy, erotic short story I wrote for Halloween last year for your reading pleasure. Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter for a chance to win a $5 Amazon gift card.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

[11/3/15 Update: The Spanking Connection short story has been removed from this post, but it can be found in the Spank or Treat anthology.]

Return to Blog Hop here

An InLinkz Link-up

Quick Pasta Bake #recipe from @pagehalffull #historicalromance

Author Susan Lodge, is here with a delicious recipe that is easy and delicious. Take it away, Susan.

The world moves faster now and we all have time crunches that take away from home cooking. But here is the perfect meal for when you are really pressed to feed the family.

Quick Pasta Bake

300gm (10oz) dried pasta Penne works well
1 large onion chopped
3 garlic cloves peeled and crushed
4 rashers of thick bacon cooked and chopped into bite size pieces
1-2 tbsp. of olive oil
125 ml (4 oz) water or wine
400gm (14 oz) tin of plum tomatoes.
1 tsp. dried mixed herbs
110 gm (4oz) of hard cheese grated or mozzarella sliced.
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 180°C or 350°F.

Cook the pasta for the prescribed time on the packet.

In a large pan gently fry the onions and garlic in the olive oil for a few minutes until soft and transparent.

Add tomatoes, water/wine, bacon, and mixed herbs. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer gently for five to ten minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.

Combine the drained pasta and tomato mixture and turn in to an oven proof dish.
Sprinkle with cheese and bake ten minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Nice served with a green salad and some crusty bread.

Here is a peek at my Historical Romance releasing this fall through Crooked Cat Publishing. This is a tale of treachery and passion set against the backdrop of Nelson's Navy. I hope you enjoy it.

The naval frigate was his life. It was her nightmare.

Spring 1803

Daughter of England’s foremost code breaker, Jane Charlesworth is the only person thought capable of deciphering a vital Government document. But when a naval frigate is sent to enlist her services and transport her to Malta Jane is filled with horror. Haunted with terrible memories of an earlier voyage, she has no intention of putting herself under the protection of the Admiralty ever again.

Anxious to be at the forefront of the action, as the Peace with France crumbles, Adam Marston is livid when his ship is diverted to collect a reluctant blue stocking whose accusing eyes and insolent manner hold nothing but contempt for him and his orders. Sparks fly when Captain and code breaker find they have different ideas on how to handle a French attack, a malicious Chaplain, and boisterous midshipmen.

Duty and desire collide as Malta approaches but Jane is determined that her judgment will not be clouded by the Captain who, once he has dispatched his Rebellious Cargo , will sail out of her life and back to his convoy. But as the ship docks Jane’s life becomes a nightmare and she is forced to gamble that Adam is the one person she can trust.

As passion battles with duty will future orders throw them together or tear them apart?

Susan Lodge’s first publication was a story for a UK national woman’s magazine. Heady with this breakthrough, she went on to write her first novel. She loves writing contemporary and historical romance, usually with a large dose of humour. Susan believes the romance genre lends itself superbly to funny moments, as love can make people act very oddly.

Susan has a science degree and always wanted to be an astronaut, but instead spent most of her career in the Civil Service. She would love to secure a seat on Richard Branson’s space flight. However, to find the funds she needs to either write a best seller or win the lottery.

After working in several cities including London and Bristol, she and her husband moved down to the Hampshire coast to raise their family.

Catch up with Susan on her website and blog. Stay connected on Facebook and Twitter.

Fresh Vegetable Soup for a Chilly Fall Night from @EMMAJLANE #recipe

Creative author Emma Lane is here to share her latest culinary creation that can be served hot or cold and her new Regency release. The kitchen is all yours, Emma.

This recipe is only a guideline for making a delicious lunch or main dish during harvest time when fresh vegetables are available. The list of vegetables is easily amendable to whatever your harvest brings. (Not beets!) Be sure to add nurturing bread like corn bread or crackers for a more substantial meal. (Okay, I used corn chex mix, but that was an emergency) A green salad is always a welcome addition.

FRESH VEGETABLE SOUP

1 diced onion (not mild and NOT garlic.)
½ diced green pepper (sweet)
2 chopped celery stalks (all sand removed)
1 fat carrot peeled and chopped
Corn kernels (1-2 ears fresh)
1 can diced tomato or 1 lg. chopped fresh
1½ cups fresh green beans chopped (strings removed)
1 can Campbell’s Chicken and Rice soup or 1 cup soup stock, beef or chicken
½ pound hamburger (I use ground chuck) or left over 1 cup chopped meat or chicken*
1 med. potato chopped into small cubes (or 2 small)
1 beef or chicken bullion cube (or 2 if stronger broth is desired.)
Sprig fresh thyme or pinch or two dried
Sprig of oregano or pinch of dried
Small sprig of basil or pinch of dried
Sprig of parsley (flat not curly)

Optional Veggies: okra, green peas, yellow squash, small can chick peas
Optional herbs/spices: pinch of chili pepper, tiny clove of garlic, sprig of cilantro.

Tip: if you use fresh herbs tie together with kitchen string to make removal easier.

*Omit the meat if you plan to serve the soup chilled.
Sauté meat and set aside.

Wash and chop vegetables.

Fill large pot halfway with water (more or less as needed, but NOT at the last minute as it weakens the broth). Add onions and celery. Bring to boil and simmer for 10 minutes.

Add carrots, corn, tomatoes, potato, soup stock or Campbell’s, bouillon cube, sprigs of herbs (remove before serving). Bring to a boil and then simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.

Add meat. Simmer for 10 more minutes.

Veggies will be somewhat crisp. As it sits the flavor will increase.

If serving hot, refrigerate if it’s going to be longer than a few hours before serving, and then reheat.

To serve cold, refrigerate and chill for several hours. Just before serving add thinly sliced cucumber.

Sit back and enjoy a brief introduction to my new release.

Can an arrogant duke overcome his prejudice against a beautiful but managing female in time to find true love and happiness?

Miss Amabel Hawkins acknowledges her unusual upbringing, but she thinks James Langley, the Duke of Westerton, might be a tad unbalanced when he protests her efforts to right his badly managed properties. The duke, who has been away on the king's business, demonstrates no respect for the beautiful but managing Miss Hawkins. Amabel has taken refuge at Westerton, fleeing from a forced marriage to a man who claims to be her relative in order to gain control of her young brother's estate.

The Duke arrives home to find his estate under the firm control of a beautiful but managing female. His suspicions are fueled by his recent task of spy-hunting and he wonders if Amabel Hawkins is just who she seems. While a dastardly spy lurks, a wicked man poses as her cousin threatening to take over the guardianship of her young brother. Amabel might be falling in love, but she knows for certain the duke would never approve of a meddlesome woman, and she decides to flee his estate. Will the duke finally realize the true value of the woman he loves or will his prejudice ruin his chances forever?

EXCERPT
Fatigue and the effects of the brandy on top of the ale now gave his gait a distinct wobble. He chuckled, amused at his condition.

As he reached for the portrait of great Uncle Barney, he lurched into the back of the red leather sofa in front of the cosy fire. “Deuce take it,” he exclaimed when a rounded arm rolled into view. He spotted the gentle curve of a hip and walked around to the front, where he spied a tumbled haze of dark curls hiding a face. It is indeed a female—a sleeping female.

Who was she? The gown was too rich for his household staff. Curious, he knelt beside the sofa.
“Only one way to find out,” he whispered and moved one dark curl. He sat back, satisfied when a handsome face swam into view. She sighed and rolled over, revealing a generous figure and a pair of rosy lips. She might be Sleeping Beauty—but not one of my relatives. He leaned over and kissed those tempting lips.

As he lingered there, she sighed and came partially awake. He could not resist. He deepened the kiss and sounds of satisfaction like yum and umm came from those delicious lips. Her hand stroked his face, then reached around his head to pull him closer. Delighted with this turn of events, the Duke of Westerton complied enthusiastically and extended an arm around a slender waist. How much of the ale and brandy had he imbibed? Dizziness overcame his senses as he slid down on the floor and knew no more.

Amazon buy link

Emma Lane is a gifted author who writes under several pen-names. She lives with her patient husband on several acres outside a typical American village in Western New York. Her day job is working with flowers at her son’s plant nursery. Look for information about writing and plants on her new website. Leave a comment or a gardening question and put a smile on Emma's face.

Stay connected to Emma on Facebook and Twitter.

Death by Chocolate Ice-Cream Cake #recipe from @chrispavesic #fantasy

by Chris Pavesic

Death by Chocolate Ice-Cream Cake is a special cake that I make for friends/family who love chocolate. It is a perfect treat for a summer birthday. This is a big cake, so be sure to invite a lot of people to celebrate!

For this recipe you will need three 8-inch cake pans. I use the disposable aluminum ones (eco friendly brands of course) because I have yet to find 3 glass ones that are the right size.

Ice Cream Filling
Use any type of ice cream or frozen custard that you want. For the cake pictured here, I used cherry vanilla. A single half-gallon will fill the pan completely.

Take the ice cream out of the freezer and let it soften for a few minutes. Line the cake pan with Saran Wrap before adding the softened ice cream so it is easier to remove after it re-freezes.

Spoon ice cream into the cake pan and smooth until it is level.

Place another piece of Saran Wrap over the top before putting it back in the freezer. Refreeze for several hours. (You can do this step the night before to ensure that it is frozen completely.)

Chocolate Cake
2 cups organic cake flour
2 cups organic white sugar
1 tsp. baking soda
½ tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
2 sticks butter
4 tbsp. cocoa
1 cup water
1 cup whole milk or 1 cup Silk (Almond Milk)
2 eggs
1 tbsp. vanilla
1 package semi-sweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Sift together the cake flour, sugar, soda, powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl and set aside.

In a saucepan set on medium heat, mix the butter, cocoa, and water until the butter is melted. Bring to a boil and then pour the mixture over the dry ingredients.

Blend the milk, eggs, and vanilla together and gradually add to the mixture, stirring constantly. (You can also use a hand mixer on low at this stage.) The batter should be fluffy and form stiff peaks.

Add in the package of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir with a spoon at this point until they are distributed evenly.

Divide the mixture between the two remaining baking pans. The pans should be lightly buttered and floured prior to pouring in the batter.

Bake 20 minutes or so.

Let the cake cool completely. Remove the two layers from the pans and place on plates.

About an hour before serving, place the two cakes in the freezer.

Whipped Cream and Chocolate Topping
1 can Redi-Whip Whipped Cream
1 bar dark chocolate 80% or higher cocoa

Using a knife or vegetable peeler, chop/shave the chocolate bar. It may tend to crumble a bit if you shave it—this is OK. (This step is a bit messy so you may want to do it in advance and just save the chocolate shavings/pieces in a plastic baggie until you add it to the top of the cake.

To Assemble
You have to work quickly. Remove the bottom cake from the freezer and place it on the platter/plate you intend to use for serving. Remove the ice cream from the freezer. Remove the Saran Wrap from the top and invert it onto the frozen cake. Remove the bottom of the Saran Wrap. Take the second cake from the freezer and place on top, pressing lightly to level. “Frost” the cake with the Redi-Whip, creating a border on the top. Inside of the border, sprinkle the chocolate pieces/shavings.

Serve immediately.

Cheers!


Here is a brief introduction to Wonderland, the latest fantasy book by Chris Pavesic. Enjoy!

You may think you know her story.

You don't.

Throughout her life Alice has faced fear and isolation, but she has never given up hope. In the City by the Bay she has one last chance to find happiness; one last chance to find friendship; one last chance to find Wonderland.

Click here to watch the YouTube video.

Read excerpts from all of the books written by Chris Pavesic on Amazon.

Chris Pavesic is a fantasy author who lives in the Midwestern United States and loves Kona coffee, steampunk, fairy tales, and all types of speculative fiction. Between writing projects, Chris can most often be found reading, gaming, gardening, working on an endless list of DIY household projects, or hanging out with friends. Learn more about Chris on her website.

Stay connected on Facebook and Twitter.

Myth. Magic. Pomegranates @erzabetbishop @DecadentPub #BDSM #LGBT

Blurb:

What if everything you thought you knew was a lie?

Crafting spells, running her shop, and hanging with her lover, Hayden, was all Persephone Carraway wanted out of life. The future was filled with endless possibilities as long as it was with the girl of her dreams. But Hayden has a secret and, it turns out, so does Persephone.

One night in the Underworld will change things forever…

Demi, Persephone’s mother has developed a designer pomegranate, infusing it with her daughter’s blood. A single act of betrayal will craft war with the old gods and the Fae, leaving destruction in its wake. Persephone is drawn into a web of myth and magick where nothing is at it seems, even herself.

Myth. Magic. Pomegranates…

Facts:

Genre- Lesbian fantasy, paranormal, twisted myth, romance,
BDSM

Pages-64

Pairing: f/f

Series-Myth and Magic #1

Published: October 9, 2015

Publisher: Decadent Publishing

Audiobook: upcoming

Buy Links:

Amazon: http://goo.gl/UKX2sY

ARe: https://goo.gl/29i1jz

Decadent Publishing: http://goo.gl/a2DfDi

Excerpt:

Persephone took a breath. Her mouth was dry and her skin slick with sweat. She was thirsty. So thirsty. Her eyes wouldn’t focus, and her heart was racing.

“You look like you could use this.” A woman in a black mask and unbuttoned tux jacket approached, holding out a bottle of water. The white dress shirt was halfway open, straining against her breasts. Every movement tugged against the soft flesh, hinting at the bounty buried beneath the fabric. Vest unbuttoned over leather pants and kickass boots, she made Persephone’s breath catch in her throat. The woman’s black hair was slicked back into a tight bun, her red lips plump and succulent.

Hands shaking, Persephone took the bottle. “Thank you.” What is wrong with me?”

“This is your first rave, I take it?”

“Yes.” She drank the cool water, each swallow bringing her more clarity. Soon the bottle was drained and dangled empty in her grasp.

“It can be a little much when they turn on the purple wave. Here. Sit.” The masked woman led her to a chair. Large and white, it faced an enormous fireplace. Green fire burned within. Persephone fell into the chair, her dress spilling around her. She watched the green fire dance, marveling at the images unfolding. Her mind was still muzzy but she saw...no....

“Faces...there are faces,” she gasped, trying to push herself up from the chair.

About the author:

Erzabet Bishop is an award winning author who loves to write naughty stories. She is the author of Lipstick, Dinner Date, Crave,The Science of Lust, Arcane Imaginarium: Spirit Board, Holidays in Hell, Mallory’s Mark (upcoming 2016),The Devil’s Due (upcoming 2016), Charity Benshaw’s Enchanted Paddle Emporium (upcoming 2016),Tethered, Sigil Fire, Glitter Lust (upcoming 2016), Written on Skin, Club Beam, Pomegranate, A Red Dress for Christmas, The Black Magic Café, Fantasies in Red, Sweet Seductions: The Erzabet Bishop Collection, Holiday Cruise, Fetish Fair, Temptation Resorts: Jess, Temptation Resorts: Marnie, Taming the Beast, The Erotic Pagans Series: Beltane Fires, Samhain Shadows and Yuletide Temptation along with being a contributor to many anthologies. Erzabet has been a finalist in the GCLS awards for 2014 and 2015. She lives in Texas with her husband, furry children and can often be found lurking in local bookstores. She loves to bake, make naughty crochet projects and watch monster movies. When she isn’t writing, she loves to review music and books.

Follow her reviews and posts on Twitter @erzabetbishop.

Links:

The Romance Reviews:
http://www.theromancereviews.com/100004193823883

Newsletter  Wix:
http://erzabetwrites.wix.com/erzabetbishop

Are:
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/storeSearch.html?searchBy=author&qString=Erzabet+Bishop

About Me: http://about.me/erzabet.bishop/#

Facebook “like” page:
https://www.facebook.com/erzabetbishopauthor

Amazon author page: http:// amazon.com/author/erzabetbishop/

Goodreads:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6590718.Erzabet_Bishop

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erzabet.bishop

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/erzabetbishop/

Review Blog: http://erzabetsenchantments.blogspot.com/

Author Database:
http://authorsdb.com/authors-directory/2690-erzabet-bishop

Authorgraph: https://www.authorgraph.com/authors/ErzabetBishop

The Naughty Angel #pnr #1NightStand from @shielasue @DecadentPub

The Naughty Angel a 1 Night Stand Series

Paranormal Romance

Shiela Stewart

Available in Print and ebook

www.decadentpublishing.com

All Romance ebooks

Barnes and Nobel

iTunes

Kobo

 Guest Post by Shiela Stewart: 

Angels and Demons. Heaven and Hell. What makes them so fascinating and why do we want to go to heaven so badly? No, this is not going to be a preachy blog so please don’t turn me off. I’m about to share with you my take on the subject and why I love writing about them.

I do believe in Angels and Demons, but maybe not entirely in the biblical sense. I believe in good and bad. Everyone has good in them, and everyone has bad in them. It’s how we choose to use them that makes us who we are. Have you ever stopped and looked at those people who lead a normal life, going about a normal existence, then one day, they grab a weapon and take out a crowd of people? What made them do that?  Had to be evil inside of him for him to do such a thing.  Right?

When we think of angels we see delicate features of a woman or child with golden hair, wearing a white flowing dress and white feathery wings, gold halo over her head. That’s what we’ve been taught to believe. But what about the person that for no reason at all will pay for the person behind them in the grocery line up without saying a word to the person. Or shovel your walk after a snow storm. What about the person who stops on the side of the road to help someone fix their flat tire, in the middle of a downpour? A good hearted person couldn’t drive by and not stop and help.

Now, let’s talk about the biblical Angels and Demons. God Rules the Heavens and Satan rules Hell. Angels do God's work and Demons do Satan’s work. Neither has a mind of their own. I often wonder if they get bored with their jobs—if there really are such things. It was that thought that brought on the idea for my latest release, The Naughty Angel. I bring together an angel wanting something different in her life other than being the watcher of children and finds it at Madam Eve’s 1 Night Stand and a Demon looking for his next minion. Both are slaves to their master. Being together is the ultimate sin for both. Yet it is so tempting.

So tell me what you think. Are Angels and Demons real?  Has anyone ever gone out of their way to help you, even when they don’t know you? Comment and you could be a lucky winner will get a copy of The Naughty Angel just released.

Author Bio:

Raised on a rural farm in Saskatchewan, Canada, Shiela Stewart relied on her vivid imagination to fill her days. Never did she realize that her need to tell a story would someday lead to becoming a published author.

In the fall of two thousand and six, Shiela published her very first book and she hasn’t stopped since.

When not writing, Shiela spends time with the love of her life and biggest supporter, William. She enjoys doting on her children and granddaughter. She has a strong affection for animals which is evident in the five cats, one dog, plenty of fish and one turtle she owns.

Some of her other passions are home décor, crocheting and knitting.

Where to find Shiela:

www.shielasbooks.ca

www.facebook.com/shiela.stewart

https://twitter.com/shielasue

BLURB:

Even the good turn bad sometimes.

A life of servitude to God has left Ariel Raine feeling worn out. Being an Angel isn’t all it's cracked up to be. Day in day out of the same routine tends to get tedious. Wanting some spice in her life, she sets her mind on discovering the allure of a sexual encounter. With the help of Madam Eve and her 1 Night Stand dating services, Ariel is about to have her world rocked.

Only one problem is…her match is a demon.

Edison Grey has relied on a dating service to claim minions for not only him, but for his master Satan as well. 1 Night Stand just happens to be this week’s preference. No use wasting a good service, Edison decides to have a little fun while he’s at it.

Stripping an angel of her purity is an added bonus.

What happens between Ariel and Edison is a surprise to both of them. Even with the threat of punishment looming over top of them.

EXCERPT:

Ariel sat on a park bench, enjoying the warm, sunny day as children played in the sand and swung high in the air. She never grew tired of watching them play. She enjoyed being their guardian.

Still…she longed for more.

When her sister, Sarafina, appeared beside her, Ariel acknowledged her with a smile and tip of her head. “Lovely day.”

“It truly is.”

They both sat in silence, as the youngsters frolicked about.

“Shall we discuss why you asked me here today?” Sarafina asked, smoothing out her long, white flowing skirt.

Ariel trusted no other like she trusted Sarafina. “I’ve longed for a change in my life.”

“What sort of change?”

A woman with a crying baby on her lap sat down between her and Sarafina. Ariel shifted positions to sit on her sister’s right. She was sure if the woman had noticed her, had known she’d nearly sat on her lap, she would have run screaming. Only children could see her, and Sarafina was invisible at this time, as well. “I’ve always been loyal and obedient. I’ve done my duty without complaint.”

Sarafina held her hand out and a tiny blue butterfly landed in her palm. “That is true.”

“I’ve considered…taking a lover.”

Sarafina sent the butterfly on his way. “We’re not allowed to engage in such behavior.”

“I’m aware of that.” The woman beside them got up and headed to the playground, her infant still crying. “Have you never desired to have more, a little change?”

“When I do, I change my wardrobe.”

Ariel sighed. “Something more than that? I see the humans engage in intercourse—”

“You observe them while they fornicate?”

“Of course not! But I have come across it from time to time. It looks so…enjoyable.”

“It’s a sin.”

“I know what it is.” Ariel stood and captured the stray ball rolling her way. Smiling, she handed it back to a cherub-faced young boy. Taking it, he ran off and continued to play with his friends. “It’s just that,” she sat back down, shifted in her seat, “I want to feel their joy. To experience the pleasure I see in their faces, the way they writhe. The release as their body is satisfied. I want a man to hold me in his arms.”

“You know what will happen if you carry on with this idea?”

“The thing is…it’s more than an idea. I’ve…already started the ball rolling.”

Sarafina gasped. “What have you done?”

Her face heated. “I talked with Cupid and he suggested…a dating service.”

“Dearest God!”

“It’s called 1Night Stand—”

“How trashy.”

Ariel cleared her throat. “It’s very classy, and Madame Eve has created a wonderful service.”

“What a fitting name for a woman in her position, given that the first Eve succumbed to temptation and indulged in a sinful act.”

“In any case. She treated me well and was so helpful. And…she’s found me a match.” Ariel cringed when Sarafina glared at her.

“You can’t do this.”

“I know.”

“Then stop it.”

“I need this. It’s one night. Please, it would mean so much if you supported me.”

“You’re asking too much of me, Ariel. If this were to be found out—”

“I know.” She would be banished to purgatory, a bleak, lonely place, neither hell nor heaven. “No one will find out…unless you tell them.” Her sister’s duty would prevent her from divulging a confidence, those dark secrets that no one spoke of.

“You’ve already made your mind up. I see no reason for pulling me into your ruse.”

“I need a friend.”

“Oh, Ariel.” Sarafina took hold of her hands. “I am now and always will be your friend. If this is what you require, then you must do it. Please, be careful.”

“I will. I promise. The gentleman I have been paired with is extremely handsome.” She held out the picture and sighed. “He has the brightest blue eyes I have ever seen, and his face is quite rugged.”

“And you can’t wait to meet him in person.”

Ariel giggled, nodding.

“Then you must go.” Sarafina gave her a hug. “Be well, my sister.”