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Stacey Kennedy is out touring to showcase Werewolves Be Damned, the first book in her new Magic & Mayhem series. Please enjoy the excerpt below. VRB loved the book and we’re sure you will too. Be sure to leave a comment and you’re entered to win your own copy!
Werewolves Be Damned
Magic and Mayhem, Book One
Stacey Kennedy
Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Date of Publication: April 15, 2013
ISBN: 9781622661046
ASIN: B00CBFZVU6
Number of pages: 267
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Book Description:
Nexi Jones—part witch, part guardian, and wannabe kick-ass warrior—can’t throw a punch or conjure the simplest magic. But that doesn’t stop her from hunting the werewolves who slaughtered her human family. She’ll have her revenge, but only if Kyden, the elite guardian, would get the hell out of her way.
Kyden can’t decide if Nexi wants to get herself killed or if she just has no clue what she’s doing. But her father made it clear: keep Nexi safe…or else. Of course, the more Nexi runs toward revenge, the more she needs Kyden’s aid, and as she grows into her power and confidence, so does his desire to protect her. The only problem? She’d rather he dropped dead.
But when a vampire paints a bull’s-eye on Nexi’s back, she’s hard-pressed to deny Kyden and the help he’s offering. Even if it means getting her revenge will be a little bit harder. At least it will still be as sweet.
Excerpt
I’ve found you, fur ball.
Nexi peered from behind the large oak tree and spotted the small log cabin nestled in the thick forest. The porch light cast a warm glow into the night. Fog settled over the lush grass, and the night was dark, eerie.
Stepping away from her hiding place behind the tree, she strode forward and gripped the dagger tightly in her hand. Keeping the silver blade pointed outward, she climbed the cabin’s porch steps, taking each one slowly to avoid detection.
Once she arrived at the front door, she wrapped her hand around the door handle. Rich hunger for revenge burned in her veins and made her intent on one thing: to slaughter the werewolf who escaped the night of her parents’ murder. Not caring what awaited her, she stormed inside, dagger pointed, ready to kill.
The simple cabin had two large brown couches near a wood-burning stove, a kitchenette behind the living room, and a quilt-covered bed resting in the back. And that was it; there were no other rooms to investigate. No secret hiding places she could see.
No damned werewolf.
She cursed, shut the front door behind her, then trotted down the steps to return to her hiding spot. On her way across the yard, she glanced at the space to the right of the tree, which looked much like a heat wave, indicating that the portal to the Otherworld remained.
In some places around the world—or the Earthworld, as supernaturals had called it—there were permanent portals to the supernatural realm. This portal had only appeared because Nexi had travelled to this cabin from the Otherworld. Once she passed through the portal again, the gateway would vanish.
Magic had its perks. Quick travel was one of them.
Nexi shook her head at how normal all this magical stuff seemed now. Just over a month ago she’d never believed in anything that went bump in the night. Now she knew all those things existed, and in fact, she was one of them.
To her horror, she had learned that her birth mother, Tillie, had been murdered by a power-hungry vampire, Lazarus. All those years ago, her birth father, Drake, had protectively decided to block Nexi’s supernatural abilities. He had planned for her to live and die as a mortal. Now with her return to the Otherworld and the removal of the block on her true identity, there was no going back.
She was no longer plain, human, Nexi Jones.
She was Nexi Jones, part guardian, part witch.
Looking away from the portal and to her hiding spot until the werewolf returned, she hurried her steps. She wasn’t ready to return to the Otherworld yet. Not until she had the werewolf’s head as her wall ornament would she dare go home.
Just as she neared the tree, a woodsy scent that had nothing to do with the forest mixed with the citrusy aroma of aftershave. A blink of an eye later, the dagger she held was now at her throat, a hard body closed in on her back.
“You smelled lovely when you arrived.” The low voice by her ear held a faint English accent. “But I never imagined you’d be so pretty.”
The blade pressed into her skin, not drawing blood, but implying that if the werewolf chose, she’d be destined for the grave. “I’m…”
“Going to explain yourself.” He lowered the dagger, took hold of her arm, and jerked her forward.
In a few short strides, the werewolf tossed her through the threshold of the cabin, and slammed the door behind them. He sauntered to the couch, sat down, and regarded her. “Now then, darlin’.” His olive skin was stunningly flawless, and his chocolate-colored hair was spiked tall. “Why would a pretty lass like yourself plan to attack me?”
“Don’t move.” That charm wouldn’t fool her. “Stay right where you are.”
“My mouth is the only thing moving.” His slanted amber eyes raked over her. “Would you like me to stop talking?”
“No.” She hesitated then added, “Only your mouth can move. Nothing else. Tell me what you know.”
He gave her a long look. “I’d be glad to tell you anything you’d like, love.”
His kind face and soft voice wouldn’t trick her. He was a werewolf. She was certain, which was another oddity.
After the block on her supernatural abilities had been lifted, she could identify a supernatural creature as if knowing the difference between a brunette and a redhead. “Tell me why you killed my family.”
“That’s an interesting accusation.” He cocked his head, studying her with a frown. “But I think the more important question is who are you?”
She lifted her chin. “The lass who’s going to cut off your furry wolf balls.”
About the Author:
 Stacey Kennedy is an urban fantasy lover at heart, but she also enjoys losing herself in dark and sensual worlds. She lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, who gave her a happily-ever-after. Together, they have two small children who can always make her smile, and who will never be allowed to read Mommy’s books. If she’s not plugging away at a new story, you’ll find her camping, curling up with the latest flick, or obsessing over Sons of Anarchy and Game of Thrones.
Website – http://www.staceykennedy.com/
Blog – http://www.staceykennedy.com/blog
Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/AuthorStaceyKennedy
Facebook Fan Page – www.facebook.com/StaceyKennedyFanPage
Twitter – https://twitter.com/#!/Stacey_Kennedy
Goodreads – http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3473046.Stacey_Kennedy
Amazon Author Page –
http://www.amazon.com/Stacey-Kennedy/e/B004G9KR9A/
 Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome back to VRB, the amazingly talented Terry Spear! (insert my fan girl scream here) Yes, it’s no secret that Terry is one of my all time favorites and of course I’m always beyond excited when she comes by for a visit. This week Terry will be releasing the latest in her wolf series, A Highland Werewolf Wedding and is out touring the blog world to share it with everyone. I was lucky enough to get a sneak peak and I’m going to let you in on a little secret…..This book Rocks! Loved it!
Anyway, with all the Highland books that Terry Spear has written it got me thinking, what exactly is it that makes a Highlander so damn sexy? Well I asked Terry if she would give us her thoughts on that and she’s written us a great guest post about that very thing. Did I mention that she is also giving one very lucky commenter their very own copy of A Howl for a Highlander? You can’t win it if you don’t comment though!
Those Sexy Highlanders
by Terry Spear
Rhonda wanted me to write about what makes us drool over Highlanders—what makes them so damn sexy? Is it their kilt—bare chest, bare legs, going Regimental—their term for butt-naked?! Or their sexy Highland brogue? Or the stereotypical brawniness? In the Scotland way—they are totally braw.
It’s got to be all of the above—don’t you think?
And then add that paranormal element—the werewolf, and you’ve got the ultimate man feast.
Just think of it. He’s protective—carries a sword to weddings to protect his bride-to-be, wears a kilt, and you’re just dying to know what’s underneath it, hoping for a big gust of wind, and in Scotland, it can be really blustery, and then…he winks at you—knowing just where your mind has wandered.
Yep. Braw, Highland, warrior, yum.
But we haven’t even gotten to the way he talks to you, aye? That brogue is so delicious, even if you canna understand half of what he says. And when he speaks in Gaelic, he could be cursing, but you can pretend he’s sharing sweet nothings to get you in the mood…and smile.
If you’re smart, you’ll get him to remove his shirt so he doesn’t get it wet in the rain. And then you can talk him into stripping down to run as a wolf. Who says women can’t be just as wily as the Highland hunks?
Then you’ll know for sure just what a delicious treat you’re in for if the two of you decide to get to know each other better.
But wait, remember, if you’re a wolf, and he’s a wolf, there are limits to what you two can do. It all has to do with wolves mating for a lifetime. Some rules can’t be broken. And really, who would want to break them?
I have to say that as wolves, he will lose his Scottish brogue, along with his kilt. But that’s okay because he’s still totally protective. Not that you won’t use your teeth on something or someone who might want to harm either of you also.
And then it’s back to being human—he’s all hunky naked Highlander—having lost the kilt, shirt, sword, etc. And you’re kind of in the same situation. The problem when wolves have their clothes stolen, and so, what’s a girl to do?
Move in with him in his castle. Now the problem with that is that Scottish castles often have ghosts. And Cearnach’s cousin likes the ladies. Too much.
Which means? You need a protector in the flesh. If you scream, no telling who all will come to your protection. Lots of hunky Highlanders waving swords, no doubt.
A girl could sure dream.
So what do you find attractive about a Highlander??? Ready to share his big bed in an ancient castle in Scotland???
One commenter has the chance to win a copy of A Howl for a Highlander, US or Canada address only. Thanks to Rhonda and all of you at Vampire Romance Books for having me back! Hope you love Highlanders as much as I love writing about them!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Bestselling and award-winning author Terry Spear has written a couple of dozen paranormal romance novels and two medieval Highland historical romances. Her first werewolf romance, Heart of the Wolf, was named a 2008 Publishers Weekly’s Best Book of the Year, and her subsequent titles have garnered high praise and hit the USA Today bestseller list. A retired officer of the U.S. Army Reserves, Terry lives in Crawford, Texas, where she is working on her next werewolf romance and continuing her new series about shapeshifting jaguars. For more information, please visit www.terryspear.com, or follow her on Twitter, @TerrySpear. She is also on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/terry.spear .
 A Highland Werewolf Wedding
Elaine Hawthorn is a gray American werewolf, currently out of work, and on a mission to share in a family treasure. When she arrives in Scotland, she nearly has a head-on collision with one hot, kilt-garbed Highlander, and runs him off the road.
Werewolf laird Cearnach MacNeill isn’t happy Elaine ruined his car, but he quickly becomes her protector after a misunderstanding lands her right in the middle of two feuding clans. Now he’s out to ensure that this sexy female wolf gets her fair share of her clan’s treasure. He knows he should leave well enough alone, but it’s too late to leave his heart out of it.
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I am so excited to have Kym Grosso with us again! This time she is here to share her new release Tristan’s Lyceum Wolves from the Immortals of New Orleans series. I absolutely love this series and know you will too, so be sure to leave a comment for your chance to win a copy of any book in the Immortals of New Orleans series.
Tristan’s Lyceum Wolves
Immortals of New Orleans, Book 3
Kym Grosso
Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance
ISBN-13: 978-1482692396
ISBN-10: 1482692392
Number of pages: Approx. 267
Word Count: 94,000 words
VRB REVIEW
Amazon
An erotic paranormal romance…
Charismatic and powerful Lyceum Wolves’ Alpha, Tristan Livingston, is out for revenge after a devastating attack on his pack. Not only did he survive a building collapse, he orchestrated the rebuild of his chic, state-of-the-art nightclub within a week. Determined to mete out justice, he rescues a beautiful witness who may be the key to helping him find the perpetrators.
Dr. Kalli Williams, dedicated veterinarian, is hiding a secret that endangers not only her own life but the lives of wolves across the country. After being tortured by a savage vampire, she’s reluctantly agrees to help the sexy Alpha in his quest to identify suspects; ones who’d kill her on the spot if they knew she existed. As Kalli places herself in the hands of the dominant wolf, she soon finds she wants nothing more than to submit.
Tristan, committed to ruling his pack as a lone wolf, is inexplicably drawn to the mysterious and enticing woman, who seems more than human, but not quite supernatural. As he discovers her secret, he teaches her the meaning of trust, helping her learn how to be true to her nature. After living a lifetime alone, will he succumb to the visceral need to claim her, acknowledging the soul binding connection between an Alpha and his mate? And will he prevail against the menacing enemy who threatens to destroy Lyceum Wolves?
Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/Xk_NQu6h5pY
About the Author:
 Kym Grosso is the author of the erotic paranormal romance series, The Immortals of New Orleans. Both of her novels, Kade’s Dark Embrace (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 1) and Luca’s Magic Embrace (Immortals of New Orleans, Book 2), are currently available via Amazon, digitally and in print. Tristan’s Lyceum Wolves is scheduled for release on April 1, 2013.
In addition to romance, Kym has written and published several articles about autism, and is passionate about autism advocacy. She writes autism articles on PsychologyToday.com and AutismInRealLife.com. She also is a contributing essay author in the new book, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Raising Kids on the Spectrum.
Kym lives with her husband, two children, dog, cat and guinea pig. Her hobbies include autism advocacy, reading, tennis, zumba, traveling and spending time with her husband and children. New Orleans, with its rich culture, history and unique cuisine, is one of her favorite places to visit. Also, she loves traveling just about anywhere that has a beach or snow covered mountains. On any given night, Kym can be found reading her Kindle, which is filled with hundreds of romances.
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/KymGrossoBooks
Twitter: @KymGrosso
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5785692.Kym_Grosso
My Autism Website: http://www.AutismInRealLife.com
Excerpt
Stunned by her beauty, he could barely breathe. Goddess, the woman was spectacular. The fiery red gown clung to her in all the right places, and he noticed a small smile grow on her angelic face, presumably pleased that she had castigated Alexandra. He needed to get to her, hold her. As he rushed across the room, Mira stopped him with a hand to his arm. She gestured toward an elusive client standing to her left.
Logan laughed, seeing Kalli triumph over the demon spawn who ran the vampires. “Hey girl, I hate to point it out, but man you laid her out…and that growl. What was that?”
“Dance with me, Logan,” Kalli declared, needing to move.
“Your wish is my command.”
They crossed the floor, and Logan swept her into his arms. As amazing as Logan looked, she yearned for Tristan. She could feel he was close. As the music grew louder in her ears, she swayed along to the classical beats, hyper-aware of his presence. Leaning her head on Logan’s shoulder, she finally spied Tristan near the buffet, surrounded by Mira and a short bald man.
His eyes caught hers, and her heart started to race. She wasn’t sure whether it was his pensive expression or aggressive stance, but she could clearly sense he was agitated. Logan spun her, and she lost his eyes only momentarily, then caught them once again. His predatory gaze electrified the room, sending goose bumps over her skin. As he stalked toward them, her breathing hitched. Like a rabbit alert to the wolf, she froze save for the mindless dance steps she made while blindly following Logan. As Tristan came upon them, she forced herself to face him directly. Larger than life, Tristan was sophistication etched in dripping sexuality. His dominance was apparent to every man, woman and supernatural in the room; there’d be no denying him.
Even Logan stopped dancing to respect his Alpha. Lowering his eyes in submission, he bowed slightly. “Thank you for the dance,” he whispered, releasing her.
Before she had a chance to say a word, Tristan wrapped a hand around her waist, pulling her tightly to him so they pressed together. She could feel his barely restrained erection nudging her belly. Suppressing a moan, she felt herself grow wet. She clenched her thighs hoping to hide her arousal; every supernatural within fifty feet would know of her excitement.
“Don’t,” Tristan ordered.
“Don’t what?” she managed to ask.
“Don’t try to hide it. Your delicious scent.”
“But they’ll know I …” Kalli’s words trailed off as she lost her train of thought. God, he felt incredible.
“I want them to know. I want them all to know you’re mine.”
“But I thought…I mean you came with her.” Her eyes darted to Mira.
“Business only, nothing more. Still, I’m very sorry I didn’t bring you with me. Clearly I was an idiot to leave you alone with my beta. Every man in this room is looking at you, Kalli.”
“No,” she denied, shaking her head.
“Yes. And they should. Because you’re magnificent. Everything about you from that alluring dress I bought you to your sexy growl. My Goddess, do you know what you do to me? Feel it,” he whispered, grinding his groin against her.
“Tristan,” she breathed. She was on the verge of orgasm from just dancing with the man. She couldn’t imagine what would happen if they made love.
“Did you enjoy dancing with Logan?
“What? Logan?”
“Yes, Logan. Did you enjoy having your sweet body pressed to his?”
“Oh God, Tristan.”
“It’s all right, Kalli. Did you find it arousing? Tell me the truth.”
“Another test?” she sighed.
“Truth?”
“Okay yes, but he’s not…he’s not you. No one I’ve ever met in my life is like you,” she admitted.
“Ah, see how easy it is to tell the truth, ma chérie? Perhaps you’d like to explore two men at once?” he teased with a sexy smile as if he’d thoroughly enjoy it.
She blushed, not denying it.
“Someday we’ll explore that little kink of yours, but tonight you are mine. In fact, I think you’ll be mine for quite a long time.”
“Confident, huh, wolf?”
“Would you ever expect anything less?”
He spun her around, continuing to brush against her. Tightening the grip around her waist, he ran his palm up her arm to her neck, until he reached her face. Caressing her cheek, he ran his thumb across her lower lip. “I want you so much, Kalli. I’m so sorry for everything. I shouldn’t have sent you to Logan’s. I was angry, but damn, I need you.”
She groaned and threw her head back, publicly baring her neck to him. Submission, truth, she’d give it to him all right. But what he needed to learn was that he was hers as well, and after tonight she had no intention of letting him go.
Please welcome James Lyon, author of Kiss of the Butterfly to VampireRomanceBooks.com!
James is a Doctor of Modern Balkan History and has traveled and lived all over the world! James will be with us for the next couple days featuring his wonderful book Kiss of the Butterfly. Be sure to leave a comment or questions for James as he will be giving away two copies of his book!
Welcome, James, and thank you so much for being a guest with us.
1. Please tell us a little more about your travels, and how you wound up in Balkan studies. What
drew you to study Balkan history in the first place?
Even though everybody asks me that question, I’m still not quite certain how to explain it
convincingly. At time even I myself wonder, at which point I scratch my head and feel like
Bugs Bunny when he exclaims “I knew I should’a taken that left turn at Albuquerque”. http://
www.youtube.com/watch?v=e8TUwHTfOOU
But the truth of the matter is that in 1980-81 I spent two years living in Yugoslavia while serving
a mission for the Mormon Church. At first I was shocked by the cultural differences, especially
the large quantities of raw onions that seemed to be served with every meal.
Balkan Fast Food
But I quickly discovered that the people were wonderful, the food was fantastic, and there was
sooooo much history, from Austria-Hungary, Ottoman Turkey, Venice, Byzantium, Ancient Rome
and Greece, and even further back. I guess I just kind of fell in love with the people and the
country and have never looked back. The people here have such an amazing passion for life. And
I’ve grown fond of onions. And Garlic. J
2. How did you make the transition from Historian to Author? Why did you choose Vampires?
I am still active as an historian…at present I am finishing a chapter for an edited scholarly
volume (BIG YAWN) on artillery during the First World War, and I’m writing the chapter on
Serbia. As an historian and political analyst, I write for a living, and have written books, articles,
and policy papers. “Kiss of the Butterfly” is my first foray into fiction.
The Author Explaining His Scholarly Work to an Interested Listener
Vampires? That’s the easy part. I didn’t choose them: they chose me. Most people aren’t aware
that the word “vampire” originated in Serbia, not Romania. We can track the use of the word to
1725 and a specific place (Kisiljevo) and an incident where villagers dug up a suspected vampire
and drove a stake through his heart. So, as a Balkan historian, vampires are everywhere. The
Balkans had their own version of the Salem Witch Trials in the 1730s, but they were about
vampires, not witches. The Austrian Army sent out a military surgeon to conduct autopsies on
suspected vampires in the 1730s. And vampire-related folklore and documents go back to the
1300s, so vampires are hard to ignore around here.
A Gravestone in Kisiljevo
But the reason I chose vampires is because the Balkan folklore vampire – which is very different
from modern pop-culture vampires – makes for a great metaphor to discuss real life problems,
while at the same time telling a ripping good tale.
3. Who are your favorite authors to read?
I like the British authors the best, because they are excellent story-tellers and develop their
characters. Many of the greatest wrote for both adults and children, and their books have stood
the test of time: C. S. Lewis (Narnia), Lewis Carol (Alice in Wonderland), Rudyard Kipling (Jungle
Book), J.K. Rowling (Harry Potter), J.M. Barrie (Peter Pan), J.R.R. Tolkien (Hobbit), and Kenneth
Grahame (Wind in the Willows), to name but a few. I also love some of the great American
humorists/satirists, such as Mark Twain, Carl Hiaasen, and Dave Berry.
4. If you could write in collaboration with any author, any genre, who would you choose and what
would you write about?
I would write a satirical book about vampire penguins in collaboration with Dave Berry and
Carl Hiaasen. The BBC recently ran a story about vampire bats attacking penguin chicks. http://
www.bbc.co.uk/nature/21534299 Since Dracula and other pop-culture vampires wear tuxedos,
penguins are already halfway there. J
5. In Kiss of the Butterfly, who is your favorite character? Who was the most fun to write?
Everybody says that they liked the enigmatic Marko Slatina, but I liked the old bookstore owner
(Mr. Niedermeier). The paramilitary vampire thug Lynx was also a challenging character to write.
But Slatina is by far the most enigmatic, which makes him difficult both to write and decipher,
especially since he drops clues left and right that are not immediately evident as clues. Steven,
on the other hand, is intended to be a bit of an Everyman character, that is, a sounding board
for other people’s emotions and behaviors, which is why he reacts less and absorbs more.
Although this sometimes frustrates readers, it also enhances their emotional engagement with
the book, as they start getting angry with Steven for not acting the way they would like him
to act in certain situations. It is precisely his humanity and uncertainty that makes “Kiss of the
Butterfly” so real.
6. I’m very intrigued by the Balkan legends of vampires; can you speak more about this? How
much of your story includes traditional legends? Did you embellish on any for your story?
In my spare time I actually go vampire hunting. Here are a couple of blog links of some of my
more recent exploits.
http://thevampirologist.blogspot.com.au/2012/12/vampires-in-serbia-unraveling-fact-
from.html
http://magiaposthuma.blogspot.com/2013/01/in-search-of-peter-plogojowitzs-grave.html
A Gravestone That Plays a Cameo Role in “Kiss of the Butterfly”
I have read extensively about vampires in Balkan folklore, and I can assure the readers that all
the vampires in “Kiss of the Butterfly” are based entirely on authentic traditional descriptions
of “real” vampires as they appear in Balkan folklore. I have been pleasantly surprised by the
positive reaction the book has gotten from leading vampire specialists at universities, including
Professor Elizabeth Miller, the world’s leading Dracula expert. http://www.ucs.mun.ca/~emiller/
ABC News even quoted me and mentioned “Kiss of the Butterfly” in a story on vampires, which
really excited me. http://abcnews.go.com/International/vampire-threat-terrorizes-serbian-
village/story?id=17831327 So not only is “Kiss” a ripping good tale, it’s also historically accurate.
Even now I am planning a new vampire-hunting adventure for next month, which I will blog
about when it is finished. To ensure my survival, I shall hang garlands of garlic around my neck. If
it is successful, I shall start a new cosmetics and fashion line called “GARLIQUE”. J
“GARLIQUE”.
7. It is refreshing to read a dark vampire story, where vampires are not sexualized, but are brutal
beasts that we loathe to find in dark places. How do you feel about the typical vampire stories
of the popular choices? Do you like to read the sexy vampire books?
Everyone has their own taste in books, so I don’t wish to criticize anyone’s favorites. But in my
humble opinion, a vampire book — by its very nature — should not be overtly sexy. Rather, it
should be cloaked in multiple layers of sensuous meaning and draped in diaphanous metaphors
that stimulate the imagination, arouse the senses, and spark the synapses to create a uniquely
individual experience for each reader, depending on their tastes and life experiences. Overtly
sexy attempts at vampires seem to lack the subtlety that makes the genre so tasty.
After all, Bram Stoker’s Dracula didn’t immediately rip off his shirt or any female bodices and
start ravishing women. Rather, he behaved as a perfect gentleman, was friendly and hospitable,
maintained an appropriate social distance, and said “Welcome to my house! Enter freely and
of your own free will!” That one sentence alone contains so many different layers of potential
meaning that it stirs the imagination, sends chills down the spine, inflames the loins, and leaves
the reader gasping for more. And Stoker did all of that without a single sign of lust, teenage
emotions, fiery passion, or overt sexuality.
8. As I was reading Kiss, I was imagining a movie-like scene in my head. I could see the dark
shadows, smell the stench, feel the irritation of dust (it was great!) How do you envision your
settings and scenes when you write?
My wife has often made similar comments about smelling the stench and sensing the irritation
of dust, at which point I know I need to take a shower. J But seriously, they always say that you
should write what you know. Everything I described in “Kiss of the Butterfly” was written on the
basis of personal experiences. The “Kiss of the Butterfly” Pinterest page http://pinterest.com/
kissofthebutter/ has a number of photos from the Petrovaradin tunnels, as well as assorted
photos from some of the places in the book, including Hvar, Belgrade, Budapest, the Drina River
Valley, etc. I hope to add more to Pinterest, but it keeps giving me problems.
Entrance to the Petrovaradin Tunnels
There are also photos on the facebook page, including one album of the Petrovaradin
fortress tunnels. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?
set=a.550825011595708.125795.203838056294407&type=3
9. What are you working on now?
I have written the first chapter of the next volume in the saga, and have outlined the rest of
the book. It will follow the same format as “Kiss”, with interludes and flashbacks. It takes a
tremendous amount of research. I am also translating a scholarly work from Serbian into English
about vampires in Balkan folklore. J
10. I know that you have a second novel in the works to follow up Kiss; can you share some of it
with us, or discuss some of the general plot lines? (I want to know what happens when they all
go sailing away!)
The next volume will take place from spring of 1992 until either the end of that year or early
1993. It will consist of a prelude that continues the subplot of Vlad the Impaler (already written),
and will take place primarily in Bosnia, although there will be scenes in major international
capitals, including New York, Washington, Budapest, London, Vienna, Berlin, etc. There will also
be a surprise element from…SPOILER ALERT… Pennsylvania. The clue for that was given in one
of the interludes Ooooops… I’ve already given away too much.
In the tunnels of Petrovaradin
11. Is there anything you would like to share particularly with your readers here?
I expect a print version to be available in April on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other outlets.
Because I am a bit old-fashioned, each chapter will have an illustration, and there will be a map
to help readers navigate the unfamiliar geography. I have also included an original map of the
Petrovaradin fortress underground tunnels that was created by the Austro-Hungarian fortress
commander.
12. Do you have a dog?
A dog? Funny you should ask. I just happen to have a wonderful little puppy named Leon, who is
a Bichon Havanese. I am training him to sniff out vampires. Although he looks like a four-legged
dust mop, he is cute, cuddly, adorable, and loves to play. My wife assures me that he actually
has eyes under all that hair. And he still isn’t house-trained. So please buy my book so that I can
afford dog-food and diapers for Leon. J
Leon the Vampire-Hunting Puppy
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Ladies and Gentlemen, we have with us today the wonderful Karina Cooper. Karina is the author of the The St Croix Chronicles as well as the Dark Mission series. Karina is out on tour to share her newest release in the Dark Mission series, Wicked Lies. While she’s out and about touring the sites she is giving away a killer prize of 1 full set of the Dark Mission print books (released to this point) which includes: Blood of the Wicked, Lure of the Wicked, All Things Wicked, and Sacrifice the Wicked. (open to US Shipping Only) Be sure to fill out the entry for your chance!
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Now please give a warm VRB welcome to Karina Cooper!
 Wicked Lies
A Dark Mission Novella
Genre: Paranormal Romance (Avon’s first male-male romance)
Publisher: Avon Impulse
Date of Publication: 3/5/2013
ISBN: 9780062126733
ASIN: B0092QPCXS
Number of pages: 112
Word Count: 29,159
Formats available: e-book
Purchase Links:
http://www.avonromance.com/book/karina-cooper-wicked-lies
Amazon
Book Description:
Jonas Stone has been given his first independent operation: rescue the insurrection leader’s imprisoned grandson from the Mission. Getting the job done means more than getting Danny Granger out-it means staying with him while he heals. Staying too close, for way too long.
Danny is everything Jonas isn’t: confident, optimistic, honest–a man to be reckoned with. If only it didn’t mean going against everything Jonas has planned. He’s kept his secrets for years, hid behind a mask no one could see through…until now. Danny isn’t the kind of man Jonas deserves. But he might be exactly the man he needs…
Excerpt
Dedication:
For my Uncle Stephen. You were the first man in my life who bravely came out to me, and who paved the way for me to be myself. I loved you so much before, and I love you just as much now.
You are my inspiration.
And for every gay, lesbian, bi-, trans-, queer, and questioning youth out there. Life can be hard, sometimes it can get mean. There will be days when you feel like it’s impossible, but I want you to know that there are people like me out here who support you. I promise : it gets better.
A blue-white light flickered in the dark. Sparks glinted off the tool racks bolted to the wall across the shadowed room, reflected from the metal braces left leaning against the desk. As silence—mind-numbingly loud, thick as water, and twice as hard to breathe—filled the narrow room, that blue-white light caught in the circular lenses of a pair of glasses and threw a glare across the screen.
Jonas Stone stirred. “It has to be now,” he said, his voice too loud in the oppressive weight of the shadows behind him. He couldn’t look away from the feed spilling its incandescent glow over his desk, his keyboard.
His conscience.
Because the man framed in that digital feed—the kid strapped to the chair dead center of the surveillance footage—wasn’t the first suspected heretic to sit there. To sweat there.
To bleed.
“Be sure, Jonas. We get one shot at this.”
His brain wanted to look at the comm unit beside his left hand. His body refused to obey, every cell focused on the prisoner’s dark, drooping head. Scarred fingers twitched, knuckles whitening, and Jonas frowned as he realized his right hand had closed into a painful fist.
It had to be now. The kid wouldn’t last much longer.
“There’s no alternative,” he replied. “We’re not going to get another opening soon enough to .” He hesitated.
The voice over the comm link didn’t waver. Not even a fracture. “Soon enough to save him.”
Only through recent experience did Jonas know that the raspy, lifetime-pack-a-day voice coming out of the secure line belonged to a woman named May. Leader of a rebellion that had saved Jonas’s life, and the perpetrator behind a string of hacking jobs that left Jonas seriously reconsidering a career shift before the Church had made that choice for him.
The fact that she was very, very good was all that kept him from throwing in the towel now.
But he’d never met her in person. Hell, he’d never met the prisoner now struggling to raise his head in Jonas’s feed, either. Instead, all he had was a picture in a box, a hacked security feed, and too many hours spent staring at the incandescent screen until his eyeballs throbbed and the vicious curl of helplessness inside him turned to a spiraling ache.
That boy didn’t belong in that kind of interrogation room.
A single light, faded blue, gleamed over shoulders broader than Jonas’s, but not by much. The prisoner was athletically lean where Jonas was simply skinny. The narrowly defined muscles of his chest were outlined by the stained remains of a thin, long-sleeve shirt. Blood and sweat had turned it nearly brown. His slumped shoulders strained against the restraints confining him to the hard metal chair, a position not just awkward but painful as hell. Jonas hadn’t seen his face for over an hour.
He didn’t have to. He knew what he’d see when—if—the kid raised his chin again.
Blood caked into a ridged scab across the fine slash of his upper lip, under his broad nose and over a determinedly sculpted chin. He’d see the blackened stains of it dried into the man’s ears, blending into his dark brown hair. Even now, that greasy fringe flopped over his forehead, long since sweating off the gel that had held it into its fashionable spikes. The longest of the textured strands would slide into one swollen eye, if it ever opened again.
The prisoner had eyes the color of the computer-lit confines of the places Jonas preferred to inhabit. Almost black, even without pain stripping them to an endless void. When open, those eyes all but crackled with an intensity that could take a lesser man’s objectivity away in a single glance. Like a hungry kid or a kicked puppy.
Or a man on the edge of desperation.
Jonas’s chest kicked.
“Let me know when your people are ready.” He didn’t bother hiding the raw regret in his voice. He’d felt a lot of it, lately. After all, he used to be the man who helped put people into rooms just like that.
“Fine.” May’s voice cracked. Flattened. “I’m trusting you, Jonas.”
“I know.” They always did. “Let me try. I’m positive I can get him out. They won’t expect it this soon.”
 About the Author:
Born from the genetic mash-up of lesser royalty, storytellers, wanderers and dreamers, KARINA COOPER was destined to be a creative genius. As a child, she moved all over the country like some kind of waifish blonde gypsy and thrived in the new cultures her family settled in. When she (finally) grew up, she skipped the whole genius part and fell in love with writing because, really, who doesn’t love making things up for a living?
One part romance fanatic, one part total dork, and all imagination, she writes dark and sexy paranormal romance and urban fantasy. When she isn’t writing, Karina is an airship captain’s wife and Steampunk fashionista. She lives in the beautiful and rainy Pacific Northwest with a husband, four cats, two rabbits, the fantasy of a dog, and a passel of adopted gamer geeks.
www.karinacooper.com
http://www.avonromance.com/author/karina-cooper
Twitter: @karinacooper
One Terrific Interview!
Hello Karina and thank you for taking the time to stop by VampireRomanceBooks.com to answer some questions for our readers.
Hi! Thanks so much for having me today! I’m always happy to wander on by. Especially if there’s cookies. Vampire cookies? We’ll work something out.
Can you tell the readers a little about yourself?
I’m… Uh. How do I condense me? I’m a gamer, I like video games and roleplay and cosplay and dressing up in awesome ways, and I’m a writer—obviously. I love to read, I love to story-tell, and it seems like I’m always doing one of those things at any given moment. The mancandy and I are also parents, of a sort, to a host of animals: four cats and a rabbit. Because, you know, there’s nothing like pet hair around the ankles to really make one feel attractive.
Since you’re out touring the blog world for your new Dark Mission book Wicked Lies, can you tell everyone about the series and what we can expect from Wicked Lies?
The Dark Mission series begins with Before the Witches, a prequel set fifty years before the official first book, Blood of the Wicked. The series tells a story of good and evil, and those ambiguous choices that make neither option look very good. What’s good isn’t, necessarily, and what’s bad is sometimes the only way. How far would you go to right the wrongs of a world you had no part in shaping?
The context involves witches, who are often caught doing very bad things, and the witch-hunters tasked with the protection of the city of New Seattle. But are the witches all that bad? Are the hunters really doing what’s best? The Dark Mission reveals it all, layer by layer.
Wicked Lies is the novella set between Sacrifice the Wicked and the finale, One for the Wicked. It tells Jonas’ story—prying open the lid he’s kept on tight through four books, putting him in an altogether different kind of situation that he’s just not equipped to handle. It’s Avon’s first m/m novella, and I’m so happy to be able to give Jonas and Danny their shot at love. More, every dime I’m making on this novella is going to the It Gets Better Project, so I’m very excited.
You also have a very popular steampunk series The St. Croix Chronicles, can you tell us about that series?
This is a whole other bottle of paraffin! This series follows the exploits of a single character, Cherry St. Croix, as she navigates this in-between life, caught with one foot in Victorian London’s upper echelon and the other mired in the much rougher streets of London low as a bounty hunter. Fiercely independent and unhappy with the demands placed on her as a wealthy heiress, Cherry would much rather explore scientific theory and collect bounties to fuel a laudanum addiction than marry, comport herself, or otherwise give in to Society’s pressures.
Tarnished introduces Cherry to the grim workings of a madman working with the dead, and Gilded follows her as she copes with the fall-out—which, naturally, includes finding new madmen to hunt down!
What are you currently working on?
Corroded is the third in the St. Croix Chronicles, and in it, we see Cherry as we never have before—reeling from a bitter betrayal and trying to put her life together. This will be out with Carina Press in Fall of 2013. But I just finished The Mysterious Case of Mr. Strangeway, which is a prequel novella coming out this summer. In it, I share Cherry’s first collection ever—and her first meeting with the much more impatient Micajah Hawke, five years before Tarnished. The best part is that it was inspired by a steampunk celebrity, and we’ll be working together to promote the novella for Make a Wish.
Reading your blog and website, you seem to be a truly down to earth and fun person. What impact has becoming a famous author had on your everyday life?
Thanks! I’m delighted to hear that. Honestly, not too much impact. Every morning, I am wakened as I always am by my alarm—a fellow named Alfred Jarvis, who already has my coffee and oatmeal waiting…
I kid. Honestly, I don’t think I would ever view myself a “famous”. I’m just this guy, you know? I put my pants on both legs at the same time because, honestly, who actually takes the time to do the one-leg dance?, and I take my coffee in bulk. If anything, I’d say it only increased the pressure I put on myself to deliver. You know, because I wasn’t neurotic enough.
As an author of paranormal romance/urban fantasy and steampunk/historical, do you find a large number of readers easily crossover from one genre to the other or are there some that prefer strictly one or the other?
I think that with anything, there’s some give and take. My Dark Mission series has been called “paranormal romance and urban fantasy crossover done right” by the Vampire Book Club, but then I’ve had readers complain that my “happily for nows” aren’t the “happily ever after” wrap-ups that they want. I’ve had folks tell me there’s not enough steampunk in the St. Croix books, or that there was too much romance, or not enough romance, or too much mystery…
Then again, others seem to think that as they are is good enough for as they should be. I mean, where do you turn? I like to think that my Dark Mission books are a good crossover for UF readers who might want to taste some romance, or that my St. Croix books are ideal for folks who want to dip a toe in steampunk, but what I intend and what readers feel don’t always mesh. All I can do is write good stories and hope that readers like them.
Is there a character in any of your books that you would love to kill off simply because they give you such grief when you’re writing?
Not yet! When I want to kill a character, it’s usually for maximum shock value reasons—or because I hate them as people. Like, I’d love to murder the Marchioness in the St. Croix Chronicles, but I’m afraid to say that she’s hale and hearty as of this interview. Le sigh. But the real beauty is figuring out why characters are such gits. What drives them? What motivates them? That’s the key, and if you kill them too fast, you’ll never know.
So, no characters are at risk of getting axed just because they’re prats. Yet. But hey, my career is young!
Do you read the reviews of your book?
Only when I’m having a very bad day—which, honestly, is sort of self-defeating. The thing I’ve learned is that readers all have different opinions on what worked/didn’t work/why. They have suggestions, they have threats—such as the reader who solemnly refused to buy another book of mine ever because of Gilded’s cliffhanger—and when you’re already feeling down, these things can weigh like a stone around your neck.
It’s typical writer neuroses, I think, that makes us take the bad to heart and think the good ones are people just being nice. In the end, I read the ones that people tweet or email directly to me, because there’s usually text involved that gives me a clue, and then I stop. And I honestly try to stay away from Goodreads reviews. I find the audience is so varied there that it’s too much information; it’s impossible to process it all.
Okay, enough serious stuff, lets have some random fun!
Whee! I’m not even going to think about these, I’m going to do the James Lipton thing and throw it out there. And… go!
Favorite time of year? Summer! I live in the Pacific Northwest where sunshine is rare. Gimme, gimme!
Favorite Color? Burned, very deep orange. It changes, though. Last month, it was all things teal.
Favorite Animal? Lynx! I want to ruffle its fur until it makes that noise—and probably eats me.
All time favorite movie? No such thing! I am easily entertained by movies and I usually have any number of favorites at any given time. Standby movie? French Kiss. Hilarity.
Favorite guilty pleasure? Yaoi manga! I’m totally hooked on the stylistic art and the pretty, pretty boys in them. Right now, my absolute favorite ongoing story is Teahouse (www.teahousecomic.com — totally NSFW!).
Favorite book you read this year? What? It’s only February! I have been on deadline since December! I haven’t read anything. Um… um… I got nothing. But I have a Victoria Dahl book waiting for me to finish writing Corroded!
You and two author write a book together. Who are the other two authors? Delilah S. Dawson and Kevin hearne. It would be the sassiest, sauciest, most awesomest epic ever.
You’re going to a secluded island (no internet or cell service) for 2 weeks. What 5 things will be going with you? My iPad, for writing and reading purposes, the mancandy (he counts!), my swimsuit (unless it’s, you know, secluded, in which case swap that for a sarong), my hair-care products (oh, trust me on that one), and… and… bug spray. I am nothing if not practical. Do they make shark-repellant?
Thanks again for stopping by Karina! Is there anything you’d like to add or say to the readers?
Aww, thanks so much for having me! This was great. I hope your readers enjoys the books, and I’m ever so grateful for the chance to talk about Wicked Lies and the It Gets Better donations. Happy reading!
 Ladies and gentlemen, I am beyond excited to have one of my favorite authors here today!! Terry Spear is here kicking off her Countdown to Howl Book Blogger Hop. She is here today to talk a bit about her new book Howl for a Highlander that will be in the hands of some very happy readers on February 5th. Be sure to follow Terry along to the other blogs during her tour to learn more about the book, Terry, and maybe win a prize here and there!!
Leave a comment or question for Terry below and you are entered to win a fantastic prize pack!
Terry Spear Prize pack of the following titles:
Heart of the Highlander Wolf, A SEAL in Wolf’s Clothing and Dreaming of the Wolf. 1 winner, US and Canada only.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Follow Along the Countdown to Howl Book Blogger Hop!
Each blog will showcase Terry’s latest novel, A Howl for a Highlander, and offer Wolf Prize Packs of different books in Terry’s series!
1/21 Vampire Romance Books http://www.vampireromancebooks.com/
1/22 Night Owl Reviews http://www.nightowlreviews.com/V5/Blog
1/23 Sia McKye’s Thoughts Over Coffee http://siamckye.blogspot.com/
1/24 Literal Addiction http://www.literaladdiction.com/
1/25 Under the Covers http://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/
1/28 Book Lovin’ Mamas http://booklovinmamas.blogspot.com/
1/29 Anna’s Book Blog http://annavivian.blogspot.com/
1/30 Urban Girl Reader http://www.urbangirlreader.com/
Now without further ado, I give you the fabulously talented Terry Spear!
Hi Terry! Welcome back to VRB! It’s been a long time and I’m so excited to have you back today! It’s no secret that I go a little “fangirl” whenever your name comes up, so thank you for visiting again!
I LOVE fangirls!!! Who are hot and bothered for wolves and jaguar shifter types. I’ve got to say they’re just howling to see you, too! Thanks so much for having me back!
You’ve had quite the busy year. Can you tell everyone what you’ve been up to with your writing and just life in general?
I’ve been writing up a storm! Four books out this year, 3 wolves and 1 jaguar shifter, but you know, that’s only the half of it. Between edits and promotions, I’m constantly writing on the next book and the next. So here we go—I’m just finishing up edits on Silence of the Wolf, and that book will be out in January 2014. That’s Tom’s story from the Silver wolf pack in Destiny of the Wolf. Fans have been waiting for him forever, so I hope everyone loves the story. And can you believe it? That’s book 13 in the wolf series!!! I just finished edits on Jaguar Fever and turned them back in and have A SEAL Wolf Christmas first edits coming any day now. I’m down to two more books to write—another Highland wolf book, and the third in the jaguar series. I wanted to get a start on them before I pitched any more books to my publisher. But fans have been asking forever what’s coming next, so I did it! Pitched another SEAL wolf, another jaguar, and another Highland wolf story—and we’ll see if my publisher says yay or nay! If nay? No problem. I’ll come up with some other ideas pronto! Can’t disappoint my readers!
Your new wolf book, A Howl for a Highlander comes out in February. What can the readers expect from the hunky highlander, Duncan, while he’s visiting Grand Cayman Island?
He’s a warrior at heart, the youngest MacNeill brother from Scotland, and determined to get the clan’s money back from a man who stole from the clan. He NEVER is distracted from duty. Until he sees a she-wolf, hot, sexy, and unchaperoned at the airport. Offering her a ride to her villa is only the first step in this romantic tale of trouble. If you’ve never been to Grand Cayman Island, you should go. And if you see a man swimming with a woman at night in the Caribbean, you never know, but it might just be one hot couple of wolves. Believe me, there’s a BIG difference between swimming in a cold Highland loch, and the warm waters of the Caribbean, particularly when he’s with a skimpily-clad she-wolf.
Can you tell us which one of your series will have a book out next?
After A Howl for a Highlander, Duncan’s story, the next in the Highland wolf series, A Highland Werewolf Wedding comes out. (May 2013). That’s Cearnach’s story, 2nd oldest of the quadruplets. He’s 2nd in command of Argent Castle, but gets a little sidetracked when a she-wolf forces him off the road—his words not hers—and she has to drive him to a wedding, he’s already running late to.
Do you have any characters that are just screaming for their own book in any of your series?
David in Jaguar Fever, brother of Wade Patterson. Poor guy desperately needs his own she-cat. His story will be coming up in Jaguar 3. And Guthrie, financial wizard for the MacNeill Highland wolf pack, 3rd oldest brother. I’ve pitched his story (along with Cassie from A Highland Werewolf Wedding). He is the last of the brothers that need a mate. And one of Maya’s cousins, his story was pitched for Jaguar 4. Then of course, there’s the other cousin….And…it just goes on. LOL
I absolutely love the new Jaguar series. What was it about the Jaguars that made you decide to start a new series?
My editor wanted me to! So I was trying to come up with a shifter that would be comparable to a wolf—powerful, feral, beautiful, yet still close by. They used to live in New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, so the first story is set in Texas. They live in Florida also, and I have that Wade is from there. The difference is that the jaguars don’t live together in a pack like wolves do. So I had to work that concept into the story so they’d still have a HEA. It’s been really fun switching back and forth between worlds.
Any chance your Wolves and Jaguars will show up in the same book?
*smiling* In A SEAL Wolf Christmas, Hunter and his SEAL team, Anna, and Bjornolf are in the Amazon on a rescue mission. But while there, they come across a hut that smells an awfully lot like jaguars have taken up residency. Jaguar shifters? Nah. In Jaguar Fever, zoo man Thompson shows up looking for a missing jaguar from the zoo, referring to the missing wolves he’s had trouble with. So there’s some back and forth fun there.
In Silence of the Wolf…Elizabeth and Tom think the woman passing them in the butcher shop smells like cougar… Nah.
Are you still writing any vampire stories? After all this time, I’m still a huge fan of Deadly Liaisons and would love to read more!
Absolutely! Dangerous Liaisons is the sequel to Deadly Liaisons, and I’m still working on it. I also have Vampire Redemption, sequel to Huntress for Hire, which I started a long time ago too. When I get stuck on my wolf/jaguar stories, sometimes I take a break and play around with my vampire stories!
I see on your website there is a Romantic Suspense called, Bound by Danger planned. The cover alone makes me want to read it. Can you tell us a little about it and when it might be coming out?
Years ago, I wrote a story, Deidre’s Secret, a YA about a young girl who has future visions. I fell in love with her and her twin brother and wanted to see what would happen when she grew up. So later, I wrote Bound by Danger. She’s still in the midst of trouble, still using the martial arts her brother taught her, only now she’s an Army officer with a new neighbor who is out to protect her. Only he’s FBI undercover and who’s going to protect her from him? I’m not sure when it will actually come out. It’s finished, but I’m still editing it. I’ve got A SEAL Wolf Christmas edits coming up, so that has priority.
As your popularity has grown over the last several years, what would you say has been the biggest change you’ve made because of it?
I quit my day job!!! I’m sooo excited to be able to write full time. I was able to finally write Highland Rake, third Highland Medieval romance of my series, which I wouldn’t have had time to do otherwise. They were coming out one every two years and fans have been asking for the next one. I’m working on Taming a Wild Highlander for book 4, the youngest brother’s story. And I’m able to concentrate on my writing so much more than before, when I was having to write in the morning before work, after I got home at night, every spare moment I had off. I still do! Except, I’m able to write all the time. And I love it.
Will you be touring any of the conventions this year? Where can fans expect to see you for signings?
Yes! This year, because of not worrying about taking a limited amount of vacation time from work, I am attending the Romance Writers of America National conference in Atlanta, Authors after Dark, and RomCon.
For those who haven’t read any of your books, is there any one book in particular you would suggest with which to start? If it makes it easier you can break it down into genres.
Heart of the Wolf starts out the wolf series, although the first four books are about different wolf packs—Destiny of the Wolf (hot Silver brothers’ wolf pack that led to their own set of books—Wolf Fever, Dreaming of the Wolf, Silence of the Wolf), Hunter’s Oregon Coast SEAL set—To Tempt the Wolf, A SEAL in Wolf’s Clothing, A SEAL Wolf Christmas, Legend of the White Wolf (need to do another with them!), and then came the Highland wolves—Heart of the Highland Wolf, A Howl for a Highlander, A Highland Werewolf Wedding, and another Highland book to write soon. And then there’s the Jaguar series-Savage Hunger, Jaguar Fever, Jaguar 3 (to write soon)
Terry I could spend all day asking you questions but I know you have a busy tour so I’ll wrap things up. I can’t thank you enough for coming by and visiting with us. You are always a favorite here at VampireRomanceBooks and I congratulate you on your continued success! Is there anything you’d like to add or anything you’d like to say to all your adoring fans?
Thanks to EVERYONE who bought my books and made A SEAL in Wolf’s Clothing a USA Today bestseller. Without your support, it wouldn’t have happened. When I got the call from my editor, I thought she wanted to talk to me about my next book edits. It took me a moment—or two or three—to realize I’d made the bestseller list. I have to say I tried getting hold of my son and daughter, then my critique partner, and couldn’t get hold of anybody!!! So I finally posted it on FB, and my fans were the first to learn of it, drinking cyber champagne toasts to the accomplishment! So thanks!!!! You all mean the world to me! 
Thanks again, Terry, and I hope to have you visit again soon!
Thanks so much for having me here today, Rhonda!! As always, I hope everyone loves the wolves and now the new jaguar series. You never know what will be up next!!! Maybe a cougar shifter in the future? Who knows…
A HOWL FOR A HIGHLANDER BY TERRY SPEAR – IN STORES FEBRUARY 2013
A Highland Wolf on a Mission…
Duncan MacNeill is hell-bent on catching the thief who’s stolen the clan’s fortune and run off to Grand Cayman Island. Duncan has rarely left his homeland and he couldn’t care less about an island paradise. He never expected to find a beautiful distraction who will show him just how appealing paradise can be…
Meets a Dangerous Distraction…
Lone wolf and botanist Shelley Campbell headed to the island to study the old growth forests. She didn’t count on meeting a handsome Highlander who can’t keep his paws off her.
Praise for Terry Spear:
“Intense and swoon-inducing…The chemistry is steamy.”—USA Today Happy Ever After
“Fascinating characters and an exciting, action packed plot.”—RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars
“Intriguing…The queen of werewolf drama Terry Spear provides a powerful take of love and war.”—Midwest Book Review
“Highlanders and werewolves. Be still my heart!”—The Good, the Bad, and the Unread
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
 Bestselling and award-winning author Terry Spear has written a couple of dozen paranormal romance novels and two medieval Highland historical romances. Her first werewolf romance, Heart of the Wolf, was named a 2008 Publishers Weekly’s Best Book of the Year, and her subsequent titles have garnered high praise and hit the USA Today bestseller list. A retired officer of the U.S. Army Reserves, Terry lives in Crawford, Texas, where she is working on her next werewolf romance and continuing her new series about shapeshifting jaguars. For more information, please visit www.terryspear.com, or follow her on Twitter, @TerrySpear. She is also on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/terry.spear .
Purchase A Howl for a Highlander:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Books-a-Million
IndieBound
Chapters/Indigo
Sourcebooks
Discover a New Love
 Congratulations to the winners in the J.L. McCoy feature giveaway!
Large Prize pack winner:
Sally Slayer
5 additional prize pack winners:
Tami, Catherine Russel, Amy R., Sam B., and Lisa Cruz
You will receive an email shortly on how to claim your prize.
A big thank you to J.L. McCoy for the wonderful prize packs and for all the fans who stopped by for J.L.’s feature!
Ladies and Gentlemen, I’m so happy to have Kym Grosso with us today. Kym is the author of the sexy and addictive series Immortals of New Orleans. Kym has stopped here while touring with Bewitching Book Tours, to talk about some of the magical moments that happen in the latest book , Luca’s Magic Embrace. She’s also offering a very lucky winner an ecopy of Kade’s Dark Embrace and also Luca’s Magic Embrace! Be sure to leave a comment or question to be entered. So, without further ado, please welcome Kym Grosso!
Thanks so much to Vampire Romance Books for having me as a guest today. I really appreciate the opportunity to share my new release, Luca’s Magic Embrace, and guest post with your readers. My guest post is about the most magical moments in Luca’s Magic Embrace. Magic and intrigue fill the pages of my novel as does love and romance. I hope you enjoy my post and thanks again for having me! It is wonderful to be here!
The universe is full of magical things, patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper. ~Eden Phillpotts
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Top 3 Most Magical Moments of Luca’s Magic Embrace
In my new release, Luca’s Magic Embrace, Samantha Irving doesn’t want to be a witch, yet that’s exactly what she is. After failing to elicit her  magic, she escapes to the mountains in an attempt to resume a semblance of her previous human life. Sexy vampire, Luca Macquarie, concerned for her safety, is determined to bring Samantha back to her coven. His mission is to go find the novice witch and bring her home, nothing more, nothing less; falling for her is not supposed to be part of the plan.
When an arsonist torches her cabin, Samantha’s worst fears are realized. Aware that her life is on the line, she reluctantly agrees to return to New Orleans with Luca. In the Big Easy, Samantha and Luca embark on a spellbinding journey, searching for a mystical amulet that promises to release her obligation from an ancient, lethal vampire who’s been threatening her life.
During the story, we watch Samantha develop her powers, finally accepting her magic. There are several scenes where she’s forced to use her magic, driven by emotion to change the impossible. Without providing spoilers, here are my top 3 Magic Moments in Luca’s Magic Embrace:
- A Burning Cabin. An intimate, mid-morning lake swim is interrupted as Samantha’s cabin is set fire. This is the first time we see Samantha use her magic, although she doesn’t know quite how she’s done it.
- An Evil Enemy. In a fight for her life, Samantha must learn how to focus her magic during the ultimate battle or be destroyed by her enemy. She also learns what kind of witch she is and how to control her power.
- Acceptance of Magic. Even though Samantha doesn’t want to be a witch, she must process what’s happening to her. Not only do we learn if she accepts the magic, but how it will forever change her life.
In the end, Luca’s Magic Embrace, is a “happily ever after”, an erotic paranormal romance. But while the heroine is a witch and there are spells, the true magic within the book is not necessarily literal magic. Perhaps, the real magic in my book can be seen in the emotional journey and relationship between Luca and Samantha and their love story. Despite all the mayhem and mystery, the moments of intimacy and commitment are the most magic moments…moments we all hope to have in our lifetimes.
Love can sometimes be magic. But magic can sometimes… just be an illusion. ~Javan
 Luca’s Magic Embrace
Immortals of New Orleans, Book 2
Kym Grosso
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Erotic Paranormal Romance
ISBN-13: 978-1480199262
ISBN-10: 1480199265
ASIN: B009SFWOM0
Approximately 255 pages in pdf. Varies in e-copy.
Word Count: 80,799 words
Cover Artist: Carrie Spencer, CheekyCovers
Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/ngBxFCMQGO0
Amazon US Amazon UK
Book Description:
An erotic paranormal romance…
Sexy vampire, Luca Macquarie doesn’t do love; especially not with humans. Yet, ever since he rescued Samantha Irving, he can’t deny the enigmatic attraction he’s developed for the alluring mortal woman. Concerned for her safety, he’s determined to bring Samantha back to her coven. His mission is to go find the novice witch and bring her home, nothing more, nothing less; falling for her is not supposed to be part of the plan.
Samantha doesn’t want to be a witch, yet that’s exactly what she is. After failing to elicit her magic, she escapes to the mountains in an attempt to resume a semblance of her previous human life. When an arsonist torches her cabin, Samantha’s worst fears are realized. Aware that her life is on the line, she reluctantly agrees to return to New Orleans with Luca.
In the Big Easy, Samantha and Luca embark on a spellbinding journey, searching for a mystical amulet that promises to release her obligation from an ancient, lethal vampire who’s been threatening her life. With cryptic clues and clandestine allies, will Luca and Samantha destroy the dangerous amulet before others acquire it, setting forth a chain of catastrophic consequences? And will Luca give into his erotic desire for the witch who magically captures heart?
 Author Bio:
Luca’s Magic Embrace is my second paranormal romance novel, which is the second novel in the Immortals of New Orleans Series. I have also written and published several articles about autism. I developed a late interest in writing after my son was diagnosed with autism and I started advocating on his behalf. Three years ago, I started my own website, www.AutismInRealLife.com and now blog and write articles for PsychologyToday.com.
I live in Pennsylvania with my husband, two children and our dog, Ace. My hobbies include autism advocacy, reading, tennis, zumba and traveling. New Orleans is one of our favorite places to visit with its rich culture and unique cuisine. But we also love traveling just about anywhere that has a beach or snow covered mountains. I love reading mysteries, romances and about all things regarding vampires, werewolves and other supernaturals.
Website: www.KymGrosso.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/KymGrossoBooks
Twitter: @KymGrosso
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5785692.Kym_Grosso
Ladies and Gentlemen, please give J.L. McCoy a warm VRB welcome. J.L will be with us all week long sharing her Skye Morrison Vampire series with us all. She will be giving a very lucky winner a great fan pack at the end of her stay with us.
To enter simply leave a comment or question for J.L. and you’ll be entered. A winner will be chosen on Monday December 10th.
Come, sit, and read a little more about J.L. McCoy.
Hi J.L.! We are happy to have you at VRB!
Thank you for having me! I’m excited to participate in your Spotlight week!
Will you tell the readers a little about yourself?
My name is Jennifer and I live in Austin, Texas. I write Adult Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance. I absolutely love writing! I’m a serious music nerd and can be found rocking out to 80s club/metal/hair bands and 70s classic rock all the time. My recent obsession is The Black Keys. Their album ‘Brothers’ is heavily influencing SMVS book 4, Legacy of Blood.
What are some of your hobbies?
When I’m not locked away in my office pounding out the next book in the Skye Morrison Vampire Series, I enjoy karaoke-ing, reading, watching movies, good sashimi, body art, and spending time with my family and friends. I like to paint and crochet when I have time, but it’s not often that I do.
What inspired you to start writing?
My mother and grandmother actually inspired me to write. They had been telling me for years that I should but I never seriously considered it. When my mother started writing her first book in March of 2011, I decided to give it a go. I really enjoyed the process.
Why did you choose this genre? Do you think you will ever write in other genres?
I love reading vampire novels and it was just the natural choice for me. I had an idea for a vampire novel and decided to run with it. As far as other genres, I will definitely be delving into the Post-Apocalyptic/Dystopian and YA Fantasy pool in the next few years. I’m super excited to start those projects.
Music is a prominent theme in your series. How do you think music enhances the story?
Absolutely! Music is art. It’s pure love, hate, desire, disgust, beauty, ect. all wrapped up in a catchy little package for our enjoyment. Music influences my mood when I write and I try to incorporate it into those scenes. It has always been a major part of my life. My earliest memories revolve around songs.
How did you come up with Skye Morrison’s story?
The basics of her story hit me while I was lying in bed one morning. Later, I mentioned it to my mother and we started brainstorming on stuff. It just kind of exploded from there.
Will you tell everyone a little about the series?
I’d love to! Skye Morrison is a recent college grad who is facing major student loan debt. She desperately needs to find a better paying job in order to start chipping away at it. One afternoon a gorgeous Irishman comes to her rescue when she is unexpectedly caught in a confrontation with her ex-boyfriend. The Irishman, Archer Rhys, owns a night club called The Mausoleum and invites her to interview for a job as his Executive Assistant. The series is about Skye’s sudden introduction into a world she never knew existed and her struggles to maintain a normal life while trying not to fall in love with Archer and his Irish-Punk music playing brother Jameson. Those vampire pheromones can be tricky!
Which character in the series is your favorite and why?
That is a really hard question to answer because I pretty much love them all. But if I HAVE to choose, I’m going to say Trey. He is really close to my heart because he is so sweet. As a Day Walker, his divine power is Empathy and he is such sensitive soul. It was no surprise that Skye and Trey quickly become friends. Trey pretty much wrote himself. Not a lot of thought went into him during the story board process; he was just kind of always there. I wish I had a Trey in my life and frequently hear from fans that they do too!
When choosing character names, are they just names you like or is there specific meanings in their names?
Skye’s name comes from an actress in one of my favorite movies, Say Anything. Her last name is homage to the late and great Jim Morrison, lead singer of The Doors. Everyone else’s names were either chosen because I needed Irish-sounding names or they just came to me.
What are you currently working on, and can you tell us a little about it.
Currently, I’m hard at work finishing book 4 of the Skye Morrison Vampire Series, Legacy of Blood. It is slated for a March 2013 release. Those who finished book 3, The Original Sin, know that Skye was left in quite the pickle at the end of it. I don’t want to give a lot away, but it’s safe to say she’s going to have her hands full when she awakens.
Do you have any rituals when preparing to write? If so, what are they?
I’m totally OCD when it comes to my writing space. My desk has to be neat and the house has to be quiet. I completely immerse myself in Skye’s world and really get into her head so I try not to be disturbed. Thank goodness I have a very understanding hubby. He knows to be quiet when the office door is closed. (Such a thoughtful sweetheart!) And I always have to have a cup of ice. I’m constantly chewing on ice. When I get writers block, I sit back and munch ice and it helps me think. My dentist was appalled at a recent visit when I told him how I broke my molar.
Do you ever experience writer’s block? If so, how do you overcome it?
I experience writers block every now and again. I crunch on the aforementioned ice or take a hot shower and brainstorm. When I’m really stuck I call up the other half of my brain (my mother). She’s really amazing. Skye’s world is always better when she’s involved.
Do you use social media to promote your books? If so, where can readers find you?
Absolutely. Being a self-published author, I don’t have the budgets or the reach that big publishing houses do. Social media is how word of my books gets spread. I’d be nothing without my fans sharing the word on Facebook/Twitter/blogs. You guys play such a major part in my success and I am forever grateful for your support. You can find me at the following links:
Website: www.jlmccoy.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorjlmccoy
We do lots of bookmark giveaways on my Facebook page and announce a Fan of the Week every Sunday, too. I do have a Twitter account, but I never update it. I’m just not a tweeter.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Hopefully still doing what I love…writing!
J.L., I want to thank you again for stopping by VampireRomanceBooks.com. Is there anything else you would like to add, or say to all of the readers out there?
Thank you so much for having me. I’ve enjoyed the questions. I hope that your readers will stop by my Facebook page and say Hi! My admins and I love talking to you guys! And if you love vampires but haven’t checked out my series, grab a copy of the first book in the SMVS, Blood of the Son, and find out what all the talk is about! Happy reading!!!
We are pleased to have the opportunity to share the fantastic book The Valkyrie’s Guardian with you today! While Moriah Densley is on tour with Bewitching Book Tours she is offering one lucky winner a $100 gift card! Just enter through the Rafflecopter link below. Be sure to check out VRB’s REVIEW of The Valkyrie’s Guardian!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
 The Valkyrie’s Guardian
Moriah Densley
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Crimson Romance / F+W Media
ISBN: 1440551375
ISBN13: 9781440551376
Number of pages: 300
Word Count: 91K
Book Description:
“Augmented strength, lightning weapon, chronic PMS – you’re a valkyrie, Cass.”
You might call them superheroes. “Extra-sentients” are one in 4.5 million with the extraordinary ability to unlock the full potential of the mind.
Cassiopeia Noyon is descended from the most powerful known extra-sentient, but she’s a dud – no impressive talents except a healing ability which lands her in trouble. She’s all wrong for Jack MacGunn, her dazzling immortal berserker bodyguard.
Cassiopeia Noyon has a medical degree at age twenty-one, which makes her a total loser … for an extra-sentient with merely superhuman strength and healing powers but not much else. Cassie may not even be immortal, which is a downer since the man she’s adored since age six, is.
Jack MacGunn is King of the Bad Pick-Up Line. A true blue kilt-wearing, pipe-playing Scot descended from a long line of berserker warriors; if he’s awake, he’s either hungry or itching for a fight. Lately Jack feels lost. His career as a Navy SEAL detachment agent is on a slow train to nowhere. He suspects it has something to do with his out-of-control superhuman rages.
The one task Jack has never failed at is guarding Cassie from their enemies, but now he fears he can’t protect her from himself. Even if they could go a single day without fighting, Jack knows he’ll never be good enough for her. The boss’ granddaughter is off-limits anyway.
A chance encounter with a villain long assumed dead sends Jack and Cassie on a race to save the children secreted away at Network One, the academy for genius extra-sentients. Jack discovers a new side of Cassie when in the heat of combat she invokes unheard-of powers. Has Jack finally met his match?
Amazon iTunes Kobo Read Chapter 1 free
 Author Bio:
2012 RWA Golden Heart finalist Moriah Densley sees nothing odd at all about keeping both a violin case and a range bag stuffed with pistols in the back seat of her car. They hold up the stack of books in the middle, of course. She enjoys writing about Victorians, assassins, and geeks. Her muses are summoned by the smell of chocolate, usually at odd hours of the night. By day her alter ego is your friendly neighborhood music teacher. Moriah lives in Las Vegas with her husband
Website + blog: http://moriahdensley.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MoriahDensley
Twitter: http://twitter.com/moriahdensley
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/moriahdensley/
Goodreads book page: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15853313-the-valkyrie-s-guardian
Goodreads author page: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5829287.Moriah_Densley
Excerpt:
Without much effort she summoned static in the air. It gathered in her hands as she wrestled to equalize the tension between ground and sky. The shift in atmospheric energy sucked down a dull pressure she could feel in her skull and chest. The charge crackling in her fingers burned ice hot.
Cassie walked calmly to the men locked in struggle and set a hand on each of their shoulders, transferring a mild dose of purple electricity into their bodies. They jerked back and screamed. She exploited their surprise and shoved them both apart, hurling them several feet.
She heaved slow breaths to calm her anger, resisting the temptation to fry their idiotic brains. They rolled slowly and strained to sit up, mist steaming out of their collars.
“Jack. Ben. That’s enough. Look around, you morons. Is this what you want your family to see?” They glanced around and saw the somber faces watching from inside the great house, all the small ones who had just been taught a bad lesson.
“Bloody hell. What is she?” Ben muttered, wiping his split lip.
“The voice of reason.” She stood between them. “You two have to work together while we’re here. This is your clan, and you are the leaders. Now start acting like it.”
She waited while they sucked in deep breaths, trying to calm themselves from the rage.
“Do you think your family should see you shake hands, or did you mean to start a war today?”
Ben breathed an oath in Gaelic under his breath, and Jack made something pop in Ben’s hand as he squeezed. She closed her eyes in forbearance.
* * *
At that moment, three pagers went off. Jack, Chief, and Pops all retrieved their phones and checked the display with identical motions.
Jack said, “CO called in the whole team. It’s probably nothing, but we have to go.”
“Run like the wind,” Cassie replied flatly, as though she had no curiosity at all about his urgent summons to headquarters. “Nice meeting you, Chief, and ah, Papa Smurf. I’ll find my own way to the barracks.”
Damned if she didn’t show them her back and strut away like a tabby cat. Of course he stared, mesmerized by the dual motion of her hips and swaying hair. A draft of her honey-anise scent lingered. Catnip. “Eighteen-hundred hours, baby,” he called, a last ditch effort to claim her with the officers observing.
She spun 180 degrees and walked backward. “Sorry, I have to polish my pistol.” Chief and Pops sucked in a breath at her suggestive tone—with that purring sound in her voice, anything sounded like innuendo.
Jack couldn’t help it. He winked. “Sure thing, darlin.’ After you polish mine.”
* * *
Cassie could always count on Jack for two things: he would come from near or far at the sound of food cooking in the morning, and he went ga-ga over women in workout clothes. Forget lingerie–Jack wanted yoga pants and a racerback top. This morning Cassie brought out the heavy artillery with both his vices: smoothies and spandex.
Revenge, torture–either would do.
Ice clunked around in the blender as she added peach slices, raw almonds, yogurt, and lemon rind. Perfect timing—Jack jogged down the stairs and nearly tripped over Cat, dropped his duffel, and made a beeline straight for the kitchen. He rocked back on his heels, apparently expecting Anne the housekeeper, not Cassie. She made a point of opening the fridge as he entered, as though she hadn’t seen him.
When she turned around, his eyes widened and he visibly swallowed hard.
Unapologetically his eyes roamed from her long swinging pony tail down over her shoulders exposed above a skin-tight cropped tank. His eyes lingered on her navel, watching it contract as she breathed, before scanning up and down her legs once, twice, and again. He wore the expression of a tiger watching a platter of meat through the bars of his cage.
“All the subtlety of an anvil, Jack.”
“I might say the same to you, sweetheart.”
* * *
“Bait?” Cassie coughed, then half-shrieked, “Bait? You think it’s funny? Jack—you promised!”
Jack tried to tuck her behind his shoulder and interrupt, but Cassie leaned around him and jabbed an accusing finger at Memphis.
“No more bait, no more turkey shoots! You tell him no, Memphis, or answer to me. Find another way, whatever. He comes home in a body bag, and I come after you.”
She glared, the silence stretched, and she wanted Jack’s buddy to know she meant it, every word. Bad enough that they went willingly into danger, no reason they should play high-stakes games with their lives. No operation was worth that.
Memphis raised his eyebrows and Jack seemed stunned.
Cassie exhaled in a gust and muttered, “I think I just grew a few gray hairs.”
Memphis surprised her with his softened, sympathetic expression. “It takes a strong woman to love a soldier. You’ll get used to it, honey.” He nodded his head, “We always come home. Don’t worry.”
Jack sputtered then argued, “Oh, we’re not—It’s not–”
“You’re gone, bro. I give it two months, max, and we’ll all be in our dress whites.”
Cassie looked between them, confused, then hacked into Memphis’ thoughts to discern he meant their formal Navy uniforms, for the occasion of her and Jack’s supposed wedding. Wow.
Memphis winked at their twin shell-shocked expressions.
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