Kade's Dark Embrace Blog Tour: Interview and Giveaway

After a series of girls are ritualistically murdered on the cold streets of Philadelphia, seasoned detective, Sydney Willows, is forced to work with sexy, alpha vampire, Kade Issacson. While working the case, Sydney finds herself inexplicably drawn to Kade, fighting the passion she feels towards him. Kade, determined to solve the case and mete out justice, is captivated by the independent, fiery detective. As he attempts to protect her from a very real murderer, Kade grows concerned that the beautiful, but very human detective, could easily end up dead should she tangle with supernatural forces that are beyond her control.


The investigation leads them into a dark and dangerous world, deep in the heart of New Orleans, where together, they search for the perpetrators of the Voodoo killings. Sydney soon becomes the target of the killer and ends up fighting for her life and love in the Big Easy. If she makes it out alive, will she give into the intoxicating desire she feels for Kade?

The Interview:

1. When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?


I didn't start seriously writing until 2008.  At that time, I created my own website, www.AutismInRealLife.com.  My son was diagnosed with Autism in 1999, and I really wanted to write and publish articles in an effort to share my family's journey with other parents, families and professionals.  While I was searching for a place to publish an article/study on autism and divorce, I was offered the opportunity to write on PsychologyToday.com. It has been a wonderful place to write about autism.


As far as writing romance, I just started writing last December.  I love, love, love reading paranormal romances and urban fantasy.  I was thinking of writing an autism book, but I wasn't sure where to go with it.  So I just decided to put it on hold and write a paranormal romance, something fun.  I wrote Kade's Dark Embrace last winter.




2. In Kade's Dark Embrace, your hero is a vampire. What inspired you to write the story? What do you love most about vampires?


I have to say that I have always had a fascination with vampires.  My earliest memory of a sexy vampire is Frank Langella in "Dracula".  The movie made you feel a little afraid, but kept you wanting to see more of those steamy love scenes and hoping they ended up together.


Vampires are my favorite kind of supernatural.  They can be dark, dangerous, mysterious, sexy and of course, they can give pleasure by simply biting you.  I always knew that if I was going to write a paranormal romance, I would start with a hero who was a vampire.  I also like werewolves, so I look forward to writing about Tristan.




3. What is the hardest scene you ever had to write and why?


Believe it or not, the hardest scenes for me to write are love scenes. I really look forward to writing them but the wording is critical to making them feel special. There are a couple of reasons they were challenging in Kade's Dark Embrace. First, I wanted the love scenes to be erotic and sensual without sounding too much like erotica.  At the same time, I didn't want the love scenes to sound too "flowery", for lack of a better word, or come off sweet.  Kade's Dark Embrace is on the hotter side of the scale when it comes to romance.  The second challenge in writing love scenes is using many different words to describe actions, body parts, etc.  It sounds funny but there are a lot of ways to describe a kiss or even a person's lips. You really have to be creative with words.




4. Do you have a playlist for the book?


Great question!  I must admit that this is something that intrigues me, but I didn't have one put together for my website.  Here are some songs that I feel work well as a playlist for Kade's Dark Embrace:
Naughty Girl ~ Beyoncé
I Know You Want Me  ~ Pitbull
Stronger  ~ Kayne West
The Reason ~Hoobastank
Shake It Out ~Florence and the Machine
S&M ~Rihanna
Love is My Religion ~Bob Marley
Zydeco la Louisianne ~Buckwheat Zydeco
Rabiosa ~Shakira (Feat. Pitbull)


5. If you could be any supernatural being, what would it be?


I think I would be a witch.  You don't have to drink blood; you can go out into the daylight; you don't need to shift into a furry animal every full moon; and you could conjure up a a batch of margaritas for friends whenever you wanted. :-)


6. What is your next writing project?


I am busy writing "Luca's Magic Embrace", which is due out Fall 2012.  So excited that Luca is going to find love.  After Luca's book is finished, I will start Tristan's.
And of course, I will be writing autism articles on PsychologyToday.com.  I try to publish at least one or two articles every quarter.


Thanks so much Kym for flying in for a visit at On the Broomstick!

What I liked about the book:


The main characters were dynamic and made the story interesting. I love vampires and especially hunky ones like Kade. Sydney has kind of a foul mouth, which made me love her. I also suffer from that problem from time to time, so it made me laugh and instantly identify with the character. The sensuality of the book was also appealing and kept my interest. I love a good dominant male character combined with a female character that is not going to take  any crap from him. Add vampires and shake= fun read.


What I didn't:


The head hopping bothered me at the onset of the book. When you jump from one character's point of view, it is helpful to identify a break in the train of thought so you can follow a new one a little easier. That said, once I switched gears it was fine. Some of the dialogue was also a bit formal.


Overall:


This book was an entertaining read with a plot that kept you guessing, but some of the dialogue was a little formal and the head hopping was a tad distracting. It was a fun supernatural romance and the paranormal/ voodoo elements were great. The hunky vampire character really appealed to me, as did Sydney and her foul mouth tirades.  Insert cuss jar. Lol. I am looking forward to reading more from this author and can't wait for another installment in the series.

About the author:

Kade's Dark Embrace is my debut paranormal romance novel. 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 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 vampires, werewolves and other supernaturals. I hope readers enjoy Kade's Dark Embrace. I have already started writing the next book in the series, about Luca, due out Fall 2012.

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/KymGrossoBooks


Twitter: @KymGrosso


Website: www.AutismInRealLife.com


Psychology Today Blog: http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/autism-in-real-life

Want to win a copy of Kade's Dark Embrace? Leave me a comment telling me who your favorite vampire is from either a book or movie. Winner will win an e-book copy of Kade's Dark Embrace from the author. Thanks for stopping by On the Broomstick! 

Archon by Sabrina Benulis: The Interview

Angela Mathers is plagued by visions of angels, supernatural creatures who haunt her thoughts by day and seduce her dreams by night. Newly released from a mental institution where she was locked away for two years, she hopes that her time at the Vatican’s university, the West Wood Academy, will give her a chance at a normal life. Unlike ordinary humans, Angela is a blood head — a freak, a monster, the possible fulfillment of a terrifying prophecy of overwhelming death and destruction. Only in Luz, the Vatican’s wondrous enclave, are blood heads accepted and encouraged to discover what kind of powers or special abilities they might possess.


But within West Wood, a secret coven plots, and demons and angels roam the streets searching for the key to open Raziel’s book — a secret tome from a lost archangel. Some are determined to destroy Raziel, while others, like the beautiful Supernal Israfel, one of the highest of the high, wish to free him. And when the Archon — the human chosen to possess the spirit of a dead angel — rises as foretold, they will control the supernatural universe.


Torn between mortal love and angelic obsession, Angela holds the key to Heaven and Hell — and both will stop at nothing to possess her.


Goodreads

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. 

Archon takes everything I enjoy in a YA and crosses over into the murky politics of Heaven and Hell. It is a steady read that will have you turning the pages. Add in some pretty wicked witchery, spirits, demons and a prep school with a pretty interesting cast of characters and you have yourself one great novel. I asked the wonderful author if she would do an interview and she was very happy to share some information about herself and Archon.

What I liked:

The dynamics of Heaven and Hell in this book are really gray. Elements of witchery, angels gone amok and priests that have a lot to hide made this a page turner that you won't want to put down.

What I didn't:

The term "blood head" was odd. I get the gist of it, but wished there was another term that rolled off the tongue better, so to speak. I keep seeing trolls with redcaps and bloody wounds when I hear the phrase. 

Overall:

The plot was well formed, the characters compelling, dialogue believable, action non stop and I love that there will be more in the series. If you enjoy books about angels, teens with edgy attitudes, witchy characters with an agenda and boarding schools with lots of intrigue, you need to give this book a try.

4.5/5

Now for the interview!!!

1. What first interested you in the politics between Heaven and Hell?

When I first thought about the version of Heaven and Hell that I wanted to create, I envisioned these realms not in a spiritual sense, but more with the idea that Heaven and Hell were other worlds with creatures and beings calling them home much like we call Earth home.  It then followed that angels and demons would have their own culture, and since they were advanced beings, their own kind of government and "political system."  The idea of the Devil's failed war against Heaven also being a revolt against a decadent regime instantly followed.  I knew this would also be a story that had a very intense past influencing a very dramatic present, and so it followed that the political drama that makes up the history of our three great angels Israfel, Lucifel, and Raziel would be as important as the supernatural side of things.

2. What is it that inspired you to write about "blood heads" and the idea that an angel can be killed and brought to life again within a human being?

In Archon the term "blood heads" is a derogatory name for people with red hair.  They are called "blood heads" because at least one of them will be the prophesied Ruin of humanity, making their destiny a "bloody" one.  Thus, the red hair is seen as symbolic of the Archon's dark future.  My creative reasoning behind this actually had to do with witches.  In the past, red hair was sometimes seen as the mark of a witch or someone with supernatural powers.  In Archon, all blood heads are suspected of being the prophesied dark messiah, especially those with said supernatural powers.  To me, it all just interconnected seamlessly.

    The idea of an angel being killed and brought back within a human host had a lot to do with how I wanted to portray angels and demons in the novel.  In the world of Archon angels are superior beings and immortal, but they can be killed.  It this followed that they would have a soul that could possibly possess a host or even reincarnate, much like a human ghost or spirit.  Tha "afterlife" for angels and demons is hinted at very subtly in the novel, but explored much more in the later installments of the trilogy.  To explain any more would involve major spoilers!

3. Do you write to music? Is there a playlist for your book that gets you in the right frame of mind?

I wouldn't say there's a definite playlist, but yes, I write a lot of scenes to music! Or, maybe I should say I listen to the music and then write the scene after that extra little bit of inspiration.  I listened to everything from Lady Gaga to the soundtracks to Pirates of the Caribbean and The Dark Knight while writing Archon.  The Dark Knight probably makes the most sense. lol

4. In your books, the Devil, commonly known as a man, is a woman. Can you tell us how you came to see Her in that light?

The Devil being a woman instead of a man just felt so right for the story.  I'll admit, I was so tired of how the Devil is portrayed in most books and movies that I really wanted to do something different, yet complimentary to tradition at the same time.  So part of the decision was just me trying to think outside of the box.  However, Lucifel (the name of the Devil in Archon) and Israfel were in many ways meant to be two sides of the same coin.  Much of Lucifel's masculine behavior and demeanor has to do with her jealousy of her angelic sibling.  Also, it felt right that as the Archon's number one rival for supremacy, she was a female who will battle another female on equal grounds.

5. Usually, the sides of good and evil are very black and white. In your book, they operate on multiple shades of gray and often the lines blur. Can you tell us how you came to create this world?

In this story, angels and demons are more like alien beings than they are embodiments of pure good or evil.  But to explain further, this is also a story demonstrating the  unsettling idea that good and evil can, in some cases, amount to a point of view.  For instance, in some cultures of the world a certain action might be considered terrible, while in another and for the same action, no one would bat an eyelash. I think this quality of the novel also emphasizes that realistically, no villain is 100 percent evil, just as no hero would be 100 percent good.  Every character has their own motivations, dreams, dark secrets, and hopes that move them in one direction or another, regardless of whether they are angels, demons, or humans.

6. The idea that the insane can see into the abyss and glimpse what we can not is an idea long put out there for discussion. Do you think that is true?

I think it is very true that "there is a fine line between genius and insanity."  Very often, people with fractured minds seem to see a world that perhaps is always in front of us, but which our conscious minds have learned to filter out.  If you are talking about the supernatural, I firmly believe that altered states of mind sometimes reveal "another side" to reality that is often off limits to human senses, and usually for very good reasons.

7. You use arcane magic and church mythology in an inspired way. How did you find them intertwined and what first made you think of merging them?

Theology and "magic" go hand in hand when you are talking about angels or demons.  Most of the "religious" inspiration for Archon was taken from what we might call the arcane face of Christianity, how it deals with the occult.  If you are taking an excorcism at face value, for example, you are dealing with a supernatural creature who is being commanded and manipulated by words (in that case by a priest).  It all seemed to come together so well for Archon, where you have a city like Luz dominated by the supernatural and an almost medieval atmosphere, where angels and demons are taken seriously and feared for the powers that they possess.  Most real life books about angels and demons speak about them quite convincingly, and I wanted that tone to permeate the novel. I hope that answers your question!

8. What are you working on now?

Right now, I am working on Book 2 in The Books of Raziel trilogy, as well as another YA project I have had on the backburner since publishing Archon.  Book 2 has the working title of Covenant and takes us from Luz and farther into the supernatural realms that make up the trilogy.  The main conflict of Book 2 centers a lot around the Archon's decision to become a force for that indefinable good or evil, and how that choice can be made in the face of a dark destiny that seems inescapable.  Whereas Book One has a dark atmosphere of foreboding, Book Two has a breathtaking beauty and solemnity to it and moments of great heroism and emotion.  Angela really comes into her own as both a heroine and a force to be reckoned with.

9. For any would be writers out there, what is one piece of advice you would give them to help them succeed?

To all would be writers, there is one key to this industry.  It is always good to have talent, and a great and original idea for your book, but no one will ever read it if you don't have persistence.  No matter how many rejections you receive (and believe me, every author and writer gets them at some point) you have to write and write and send out your work until you're blue in the face.  Do that, and you will achieve your dreams.  It all comes down to how much you want it.  Ask yourself about your writing, "If no one ever read my book/story, would I be happy?"  If the answer is "no" then don't stop.

10. What is one book that inspired you as a writer and why?

The number one book that inspired me as a writer was The Lord of the Rings.  No matter how cliche it sounds, it is not only one of the best trilogies ever written, but it is the perfect example of sucessfully creating a fantasy world that seems only a step away from reality. Its only downside is that it starts slowly--but let's face it, the rules of popular fiction were different decades ago.  Sometimes novels that require a little bit of patience turn out to be the most spectacular. :-)

Many thanks to Sabrina for taking the time for this interview!

Demonically Tempted Blog Tour

Demonically Tempted
Frostbite Book 2
By Stacey Kennedy


Tess Jennings, now a member of the Memphis Police Department, is on her first cold case. The suspected suicide of Lizbeth Knapp ten years ago isn’t a theory her family accepts—they believe she was murdered.


But the case is only one of Tess’s worries. Ghosts are talking, and word of her abilities rapidly spreads. A dark ghost is terrifying the spirits of Memphis, and she must force the entity to cross over.


Tess doesn’t have to do this alone. Not only does she have her ghost-lover, Kipp McGowen, but the department has brought in a medium. Dane Wolfe might answer all her questions, but he also brings a world of trouble. Will Tess finally have all she’s ever wanted, or will everything she’s vowed to protect be ripped away?

In case you missed the first book in the Frostbite series, here is a glimpse of Supernaturally Kissed.

Ghosts harass and annoy Tess to save their souls. Sometimes she helps them. Other times she ignores them. But one ghost will give her no choice. Kipp, a former cop with the Memphis Police Department, will stop at nothing to gain her help, including using his ghostly charms to seduce her. 


Tess must help solve the five-year-old cold case of Hannah Reid’s disappearance, because solving the case will save Kipp. But a bigger problem presents itself. Tess is falling in love with a ghost. Now she must decide. Keep Kipp forever, or find the killer.

Reading the Frostbite series has been a pleasure. The ghost story and erotic elements are stellar. Then you add in the murder mysteries and you have two books that are five star all the way.

What I Liked:

Supernaturally Kissed introduces you to Tess, who has the unfortunate ability to hear ghosts. At least that is what she thinks until Kipp, a real hunk of a guy (dead or not) starts to seduce her body and soul. The murder mystery was good and the plot flowed well. Erotic tension lasted through the whole book and well into Demonically Tempted, the second book in the series. Again, the mystery keeps you guessing and this time, the stakes are higher. 

What I Didn't:

Not a thing.

Overall:

If you like a series that gives you spice, a good ghost story and a mystery to keep you cool on a hot summer's night, then these books are right up your alley. The plot line keeps going, the characters are believable, dialogue real and the sex scenes are delicious. You can't miss with Stacey Kennedy. She builds her characters and makes them memorable. 

Check out these upcoming releases!

Now for an interview with the author!

Hi Stacey! Thanks for joining me on the blog today. 

1. What was the defining point in your life when you KNEW you were going to be a writer?

It was the moment I finished my very first story. Honestly, at first I had no idea if I could pull it off. I was doing it just because I thought it’d be fun. I had no clue if it would end up being anything good or if there would even be a story there. It wasn’t until I was done, read it and sent it to some friends did I realize that I could actually do it. The rest is history!

2. In Supernaturally Kissed you hone in on Tess and her ability to see spirits. Have you ever had any kind of weird ghostly experiences?

Heck no! I’m a total chicken when it comes to ghosts. Personally, I don’t want to ever see one. Well, maybe if it was Kipp I’d reconsider. But seriously, I’m more than happy that I’ve never had a ghostly experience. I’m perfectly happy writing them in books and pretending they don’t exist. I would never sleep again if I ever saw a ghost for real.

3. How many books will be in the series?

Truthfully, I was wondering this myself for a while. I always planned to write four books in the series, but I did wonder if I could finish off the series in three. But then just the other day the ending for the third book popped into my head and yes, I will need four books to finish off the series. And boy-oh-boy I can’t wait to write the last two. They’re going to be a total blast! Lots of neat magical stuff, action, and Tess chasing down her happily ever after.

4. How many different genres do you write in and which one is your favorite?

I write urban fantasy/paranormal romance and erotic romance, which also includes BDSM. I have a thing for writing Alpha men so these genres tend to fit that nicely. My favorite is by far urban fantasy romance. It’s a hoot to write! I love the supernatural elements and how creative I can get with the world building. I love the fast-paced action and also the romance too. It’s really my favorite place to be and the easiest genre for me to write.

5. What projects are you working on now?

I’m just wrapping up a new urban fantasy romance series, The Cat’s Meow. I’m aiming to have a summer release. Here’s a little peek at it:

In Charleston, Libby is an Enchantress—a witch gifted by the Goddess to conjure spells. Her magic is strong and she’s got a perfect track record when it comes to stopping evil. So when a magical presence is detected around a recent string of feline slayings, Libby must take the case to discover the reasons behind the odd deaths. Much to her displeasure, the coven has also sent the sexy warlock, Kale, to assist her.

While having the muscle around proves to be useful, fighting the attraction between them is worse than a hex, especially considering Kale is keeping secrets. But soon, Libby has bigger problems than the elusive warlock. Her spells are turning up clues that point to something far more sinister than slaughtered cats, leading her to a threat that could shake the very foundation of her world.

Now Libby lands herself in the midst of an uprising. She trusts no one and isn’t safe. Not from the warlocks stirring up trouble. Not from the worrisome rebellion she can’t escape. And certainly not from Kale who is weaving a very dangerous spell over her.

6. Do you have a playlist for the series?

Sadly, no. I’m not much of music gal when it comes to writing, which is odd since I love it the rest of the time. I tend to write in complete silence. But sometimes I will listen to a song before I have to write a certain scene just to get me in that head space. Leona Lewis’s, Run is one I always listen to before I have to write a really emotional scene between the hero and heroine. Love that song!

7. What is your favorite ghost book or movie?

Funny enough I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with a ghost in it. And the only movie I can think of is Ghost. But I try to avoid that movie…it makes me bawl like a baby!

8. Erotica and erotic romance are becoming super popular again. What to you, is the difference? Which do you prefer to write?

For me the difference is this, the plot in erotica is the sex. In erotic romance, the plot is the romance. Typically, I tend to write erotic romance. What can I say? I’m a sucker for a love story and I enjoy the emotional depth I can reach in those stories. But recently I wrote an erotica, CORPORATE TEMPTRESS and its straight sex. It’s told in the hero’s POV only. And I must say that it was a real treat to write. Refreshing almost to not have to worry about messy emotions and simply let the characters have some fun.

9. Do you watch any ghost hunter or haunting shows on TV? If so, which ones are your favorite? 

I love ghost shows! All of them! I’m seriously hooked. I’ve watch everything from Paranormal State to Ghost Hunters. That being said, I’d still rather watch it in the comfort of my house and you’d never see me out there hunting ghosts. No way!

10. What is the funniest sex scene you ever wrote and why? (your first one, awkward language or body movement)

You know, the funniest sex scene I’ve written is for a book that’s not published yet. It’s nearly done and sitting on my hard drive. It’s called BITE ME, I’M YOURS and I do believe it’s the only sex scene I’ve ever written that made me laugh. But it’s more the characters that cause it. The heroine has been turned into a vampire—against her will—and is in full bloodlust. She’s unable to control herself around the hero, so it makes for a pretty amusing scene. Especially because he’s trying his best to be a gentleman!

Thanks so much for taking the time to answer questions!

Thanks for having me! It’s been fun!!

About the author:

Stacey Kennedy’s novels are lighthearted fantasy with heart-squeezing, thigh-clenching romance, and they even give you a good chuckle every now and again. But within the stories you’ll also find fast-paced action, life-threatening moments and a big bad villain who needs to be destroyed. Her urban fantasy/paranormal and erotic romance series have hit Amazon Kindle and All Romance eBooks bestseller lists.

Stacey welcomes comments from readers. You can find her at www.staceykennedy.com

Website | Blog | Facebook |Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page

The Unsacred Gift Blog Tour and Giveaway

Have you ever had a dream that came to life? How about losing the one you love and not being able to save them? What about a gift that you were cursed with? Well image having all three like Sicily "Sissy" Monroe.

"Some might say what I have is a gift. I say, I want to return it." Sissy declares.

Sicily "Sissy" Monroe has all the qualities of a perfect young lady. She is almost where she wants to be in life. But lying deep in the pupil of her eyes hold something that she cannot get rid of which interferes with her plans. She fights everyday with no one but herself. After having her first vision at age six of her sister's (Misty) disappearance and the dreams of failing to save her, Sissy wants no part in another person's fate. For years Sissy tried hard to avoid contact with people because she feared foreseeing their death. In keeping with this, she tries to stay away from her family. Little did Sissy know she could not run from her past, or her gift. She hopes someone will put her out of her misery, but she will soon discover that her visions and dreams were just a mere image of herself.

Guest Post With C. S. Dorsey

My Take on The Unsacred Gift

When I wrote The Unsacred Gift I had to do a little research. My research was mainly on the different types of visions one can have. Google has been there for me when I needed to find research for my writing. There is a part in the novel where Sissy went on her mother’s computer while on her visit home to do some research about her visions. Google was the main search engine she used. 
I must say that I have never connected with someone in my life the way I connected with the main character Sissy. Every pain, dream, sorrow, and happiness she felt, I felt. It was almost like I was going through the same things she was going through. My friend told me to add some type of happiness in the book, so I added the Chris character to it. But I didn’t want him to stay long, so I was torn between killing him off, or just letting Sissy run him off. Your will have to read the book to see which one I picked :).


While I was writing certain scenes in the books, I had tears in my eyes. It was one part of the book where Sissy talked about how love would never fine her because she was hiding from it, made me cry. It was that passage that I knew that this book would be something special. I though, how many times do people think or feel the same way Sissy does about love? Tons of people. That is why I think so many people can relate to her. Even I can.


Little things that Sissy did in the book I saw myself in her. Her quick come backs and sarcastic comments remind me so much of myself. The relationship she has with her mother reminds me of me and my mom at times. But when I wrote about her I didn’t think about me, I thought about this girl with a gift who was afraid of its power.  

If you enjoy a ghost story with lots of plot twists and turns, then this book is for you. Otherworldly with a surprise twist ending, this book will keep you turning the pages. 


What I Liked:


I liked that the book kept me on my toes and I never guessed which way the plot was going to land. The ending in particular will surprise you. Sissy's gift or curse, depending how you look at it, was also intriguing. How would it feel to cut yourself off from everyone you love? What if you had visions that they were going to die? Harsh.


What I Didn't:


Normally first person POV books don't bother me. I like them. That said, something about the voice of this book didn't flow as well as I had hoped it would.  


Overall:


This book had an interesting plot, but the voice of the piece needs a little tweaking. The end was a bit sudden, but with all the mind blowing aspects, I thought it was well done. Great plot, interesting characters and a good read for anyone who enjoys YA and paranormal suspense.

About the Author:

C. S. Dorsey currently lives in Northern California. She graduated from the University of Phoenix with an Associate’s Degree in Financial Services, and is currently working for a financial institution. She never thought about writing until one day this girl started talking to her in her head and never stop.

Blog: http://csdorsey.blogspot.com

Twitter: www.twitter.com/cs_dorsey

Facebook Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/candicesdorsey

Now for the giveaway!

Burn Mark Blog Tour

Glory is from a family of witches and lives beyond the law. She is desperate to develop her powers and become a witch herself. Lucas is the son of the Chief Prosecutor for the Inquisition—the witches’ mortal enemy—and his privileged life is very different to the forbidden world that he lives alongside.


And then on the same day, it hits them both. Glory and Lucas develop the Fae—the mark of the witch. In one fell stroke, their lives are inextricably bound together, whether they like it or not . . .


Goodreads

I wanted very much to have this book take me away like another Harry Potter. The premise and description were intriguing and witch books being my thing, I dove right in. Let me start out by saying this book was a challenge. It was a very slow read and I found myself getting extremely bored and anxious. I wanted more of a hook and was a bit disappointed. This book requires patience and time to get through and is not a light and fluffy summer read. 




What I liked:


The witch story line was interesting, as was the modern day Inquisition. 


What I didn't:


The story fell flat. There was no hook to grab the reader and at over 400 pages, I felt myself growing irritated and had to put the book down. The description did not match the feel of the book. 


Overall Rating:


2.5/5 

Destiny Bewitched Blog Tour

Deemed “trailer trash” by humans and the daughter of the most disgraceful family of witches and warlocks since the Puritan age, Samantha is used to fighting her own battles. When her younger sister is taken to the Underworld, Sam doesn't hesitate to rescue her. To survive the harsh land, she makes a deal with a demon — the most dangerous of creatures in the realm. Even with those lustrous horns, Geo is as hot as the hell she's stuck in. Fighting nasty beasts in a supernatural version of the gladiator games is easy compared to falling in love with a man who has no future to offer.


Goodreads

What I Liked:


This book was sent by Bewitching Blog Tours and was a wild roller coaster ride of Underworld fun. The main character is a witch who is trying to save her sister. With the help of a "demon", she makes it across treacherous terrain and in the process, sparks fly.


What I Didn't:


Not a thing.


Overall:


4/5


Destiny Bewitched grabbed me at the onset. The characters were realistic and the dialogue snappy. The adventure was good and you didn't see many of the plot twists coming. I liked the book and am likely to go back and check out the others in the series. It is refreshing when you find a author whose voice resonates.

Join me for a short interview with the author: 



1. In Destiny Bewitched you have the main character as a witch. What inspired your story?


I wanted to explore the witch culture more thoroughly. Samantha is a spin-off of one of the characters we meet briefly in the first book, Destiny Divided. She makes a bit of a bitchy impression and I wanted to redeem her as a person. Honestly, she had a story to tell and I was forced to write it. Lol. And after my last book, Destiny Unchained, which was darker, sadder, I really wanted to let loose and have fun with something high fantasy and adventurous. So Destiny Bewitched takes place almost entirely in the Underworld. 


2. Your dialogue and action are snappy and incredibly believable. What advice would you give someone wanting to write paranormal fantasy?


Read, read, read! Pay attention while you’re reading, to what you like, don’t like, and also read reviews so you see what fans like and don’t like. Find a critique group to help you hone your writing skills. Even the best of us need them. And finally, let your imagination run wild!


3. What are some of your favorite witchy books and movies?


This is gonna sound really silly but I love the movie Hocus Pocus. Lol. It’s so very 90’s but I still love it. I watch it with my kids around Halloween.


4. The sexual tension between Samantha and Geo is pretty hot. How did you feel the first time you had to write chemistry between two characters? How about your first really sexy scene?


Chemistry has always come naturally to me. What was more difficult to learn was how to write a good sex scene. Think about it. Can you come up with original and interesting ways of describing an orgasm? Lol. It’s harder than it sounds. I think I blushed my way through my first scene. It’s gotten a little easier since – definitely less embarrassing.


5. What are some erotic novels that just make you melt?


Hmm… I’m in a kinky sex phase with my reading. It’s so much fun to read about the power dynamic in a Dominance/submission relationship. I love Cari Silverwood’s books in her Steamwork Chronicles series. Talk about melting – she writes some hunky men.


6. Do you listen to music while you write? 


No way. I need silence. If I listen to music, I’ll start singing. Lol. Nobody wants that. Plus it’s a distraction.


7. What is your weirdest writing habit?


Hm. Not sure. Sometimes I chew on pen caps. When I’m thinking hard. Is that weird?


8. Now that I have read Destiny Bewitched, I must know if it will be a series. What is your next project?


Oh yes. It’s already a series. Book 4 in my Shadows of Destiny series. All of my books are stand-alones or can be read out of order. But the characters repeat and it’s fun to catch up with past ones. My next project is book 5 of my series, Destiny Forgiven. In the first book, Destiny Divided, we met Maddox, a fun-loving, goofy sorcerer. Well he disappeared for two years and when we found him again, he’s very different. His is a sad story. A bit dark and definitely emotional. But it will still be packed with what you can expect from all my books: humor, action, steamy sex, and an HEA.

Author bio: 


I began my writing journey while I was stranded at the airport waiting for my delayed flight. I browsed the Border’s kiosk and grew frustrated that I couldn’t find the “it factor” — the perfect combination of alpha male-ness, ass-kickery, strong females, magic, and sex.


So I spent the next four hours on an airplane writing my first book on scraps of paper and an airsick bag (which thankfully I didn't need to use).


Now I spend too much time in my head, plotting evil villains and the hot men (and women) who ruthlessly kill them. I think far too much about fae politics, dragon power games, and how fast werewolves can change forms. But writing my paranormal romance series has given me a productive place to express those dark places in my mind.


I live in New England with my husband and two kids. Though I will go to my grave denying it, my husband insists I would be thrilled if he suddenly sprouted fangs.


Media: 


www.leiashaw.com 


www.leiashaw.blogspot.com


www.facebook.com/LeiaShaw


@LeiaShaw



Live Twitter Party at 11:00am Eastern #destinybewitched

Medusa Blog Tour and Interview with Sasha Summers

Medusa A Love Story
By Sasha Summers

It's said love can change a person. Medusa wasn't always a monster...


Medusa is ruled by duty, to her Titan father and the Goddess Athena. She's no room for the tenderness her warrior guard, Ariston, stirs. When Olympus frees her from service, her heart leads her into the arms of the guard she loves... and curses her as the creature with serpent locks.


Ariston goes to war with a full heart... and dreadful foreboding. He learns too late of the danger Medusa faces, alone, and a Persian blade sends him into the Underworld. But death, curses, nor the wrath of the Gods will keep him from returning to her.


Poseidon will use Greece's war to get what he wants: Medusa. He does not care that she belongs to another. He does not care that she will be damned. He is a God, an Olympian, and she will be his.

"This tragic and beautiful retelling of one of the world's oldest stories tackles the eternal battle between duty and happiness. Medusa, A Love Story broke my heart then filled in the cracks with joy. Sasha Summers is simply a mesmerizing new talent."  


~Stephanie Dray, Author of the critically acclaimed Song of the Nile


When I received this book from the wonderful folks at Bewitching Blog Tours, I dove right in and didn't come up for air. Sasha Summers has crafted a unique story that will forever change the way I relate to mythology. Medusa has always been the proverbial monster hiding in the corner, waiting to reach out and turn any unsuspecting victim into stone (Percy Jackson series, Clash of the Titans) and this time you get a little more to the story.


I had heard about Medusa being pursued by Poseidon and being ravished in Athena's temple. This story gives Medusa a personality and life all her own. Not just a monster with hair issues. Nope. She was beloved of Athena, but as we all know, hanging out with Gods and Goddesses in ancient Greece has its ups and downs. Medusa could not win. No matter what she did, she was going to anger someone. 


What I loved about this book:


The voice of the novel grabbed me and did not let me put it down. Medusa became someone I cared about and had to see what happened to her. Graceful and lovely, she was the epitome of a priestess and beloved of the Gods and Goddesses of Olympus. Ariston was the perfect hero, risking death and beyond for his dearest love, Medusa and the life they were meant to share. This had me weeping more than once.


What I didn't:


It ended. By gosh, I want more Greek myths from this author!


Overall:


If you enjoy stories about Greek myths, you must grab this one! It does have some adult content (language, rape) but all done in a tasteful way that makes the story live and breathe. This is one story that will be up there with my favorites. The voice was good, the plot a page turner-even when you sort of know what the outcome will be, you are still left guessing because of the artful way Sasha Summers handles the story line. Excellent job!!! The sensual parts of the story are well done and dialogue believable. 


4.5/5

Excerpt:
“You asked for an audience, you have it. Now tell me, where do you belong?” Hades’ voice was deep, emotionless.
Ariston swallowed. “Athens.” He met Hades’ gaze, but the God revealed nothing to him.
“Why? You died with honor and glory. Is that not what every soldier wants?”  
  “My wife…” His voice wavered.
Hades brow lifted slightly. “Lives. You do not.” 
“She is in danger.”
“Earthly danger. She is no longer your concern, Ariston.” 
“The danger she faces is not earthly, but far from it…” Ariston’s voice was hoarse, his desperation mounting. He took a wavering breath before he began again. “She is everything to me. I am proud of my death, but it means nothing if she is in peril. I must know.” Ariston kneeled. “I beg you. I beg you to return me to Athens.”
Ariston waited, willing himself to be strong.
“Who is this wife?” Hades asked.
“Medusa of Athens.” He paused. “Now of Rhodes.”
Hades was silent, his dark blue eyes regarding him steadily.
“When I die—” Ariston began.
“You are dead,” Hades assured him. 
“When I return…die again, I would serve as guardian to Tartarus. I am a skilled warrior, a skill I might offer you.” He spoke with confidence.
“You vex me,” Hades muttered, the slightest crease appearing between his eyes. “You offer this to me for a woman?”
Ariston nodded. “She is worthy.”
Hades was silent again, his eyes shifting to the blue-white flames in the massive 
fireplace.  
“My words do not…adequately express the love I have for this woman. But I cannot leave her. She is at risk. I must return.” The words came without thought. How could he justify such emotion to a God who reviled affection or companionship? “As Olympus has my arm and sword, she has my heart – a mortal, and perhaps weak, heart.”
The room was silent for too long. He would have to fight his way out… 
“It is a weakness not reserved for mortals alone, Ariston of Rhodes.” Hades’ words were so soft Ariston feared they’d not been spoken. But Hades continued, strong and clear. “I will return you to your ship so that you may lead your men to victory. Too many have fallen from this war and I would see it end. When that is done, you may go to your wife.” He paused then added, “When you return to my realm, I will have your fealty.”
The God of the Underworld, Lord of Death, gave him mercy? Mayhap there was one God he might serve with honor.  
Ariston vowed, “You have it.”

Hi Sasha! Thanks for stopping by to visit at On the Broomstick! Here are some interview questions to help my readers get to know you better.

1.Medusa  has been portrayed in many different ways both in movies and in literature. What about her first captured your interest?

I had a hard time believing a woman could do such horrible things because she was ticked off. There had to be more to it… And, since I’m partial to tragedy, I sort of tossed around ideas until a dream cemented what I’ve always suspected. Medusa isn’t a bad girl, she’s a true heroine.

2.What are some of your favorite Gods and Goddesses in mythology? 

With each new Loves of Olympus book I write, I find a new favorite. Right now I’m working on Apollo’s story – so I’m in complete love with him. 

3.Do you listen to music while you write?  Did you make a playlist for Medusa?

Yes and absolutely! You can find it on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLECD8D3D604769D10&feature=mh_lolz

They’re all a little moody – but they worked for me.

4.What are some favorite mythology books and movies?

I’ll watch any sword and sandal film – even if it’s not good. Clash of the Titans, the original, is still a fave of mine – in all it’s cheesiness! I also enjoyed the HBO series ROME and the first season of Spartacus, too.

5. If there was a book that made you want to be a writer, what was it?

Not so much one book, just the desire to create and share powerful stories. I’m a fan of stories – film, plays, books…

6.Are you more of an outliner or seat of your pants kind of girl?

Pantser. But I did have to do some research to tie in the history and make it ‘just right’.

7. Will you write more mythological books? If so, what are you currently working on?

Yes. I’ve completed Book 2 – For the Love of Hades. It will be out the beginning on 2013. And am working on Apollo’s story, then Ares, and so on.

8. Do you have any quirks as a writer? (habits or things you must have before you can write productively.)

Not really. I have four kids, so I write whenever I have time. Ideally, I have my music blasting and am ‘in the zone’ but I try to be adaptable.

9. What are some of your favorite hobbies when you are not writing?

Painting, reading and movies.

10. If you could tell perspective writers one thing, what would it be?

Write what you love not what’s in style. You have to ‘feel’ your stories for readers to really connect.

Thanks Sasha for taking the time to answer these questions! I can't wait to read your new books!

Here are some upcoming and new releases from Sasha:

Medusa, A Love Story (Book 1, Loves of Olympus a fantasy romance series), Available Now ~ ~ For the Love of Hades (Book 2) - January 2013

Hollywood Ever After (Book 1, Red Carpet Series contemporary romance) coming July 14, 2012 ~ ~ Hollywood Holiday - winter 2012

Galileo's Holiday part of the 2012 Carina Press SciFi Holiday Anthology - December 2012

Author Bio:


Sasha Summers is part gypsy. Her passions have always been storytelling, history, and travel. It's no surprise that her books visit times past, set in places rich with legends and myth. Her first play, 'Greek Gods and Goddesses' (original title, right?), was written for her Girl Scout troupe. 


She's been writing ever since. She loves getting lost in the worlds and characters she creates; even if she frequently forgets to run the dishwasher or wash socks when she's doing so. 


Luckily, her four brilliant children and hero-inspiring hubby are super understanding and supportive.


Sasha is an active member of RWA and several Texas Chapters. A self-proclaimed movie-addict, she is full of all sorts of useless movie tidbits and trivia. 


Facebook Author Page: 
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sasha-Summers/213036208773108


Goodreads:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5759214.Sasha_Summers


Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sashasummers/


Twitter: @sashawrites


Webpage: http://www.sashasummers.com