Their New Year's Beginning by Michelle Major

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Michelle Major will be awarding a $20 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

At the stroke of midnight, a stranger’s kiss changes everything…

Brian Fortune doesn’t think he will ever find the woman he kissed at his brother's New Year's wedding. So when the search for the provenance of a mysterious gift leads him into a local antique store a few days later, he's stunned to find Emmaline Lewis, proprietor—and mystery kisser! Surprise turns to shock when he realizes that she's also six months pregnant. Brian has never been the type to commit—and he’s really not ready to become a family man in one fell swoop! But suddenly he knows he’ll do anything to stay at Emmaline's side—for good…

Read an Excerpt

I do need you. So much. Emmaline’s heart pounded with all the things she wanted to say to him. But those things would just make her look like a bigger fool. She’d already let her heart stay in the lead for far too long.

“I’m a soon-to-be single mother living in a small town in Texas.” She pointed a finger at him. “You’re a big-city bachelor who likes your freedom and your uncomplicated life. I’m a box of complications, Brian.”

“The past month has seemed simple enough to me,” he murmured. “Why does that have to change?”

Because I’m in love with you, she wanted to scream. But she didn’t. It was bad enough that she felt as though she was dying on the inside. She couldn’t bring herself to invite outright rejection from him. If he wanted more, he’d tell her.

“We’ve had fun,” she said, which was only a tiny bit of the truth between them. “I’ll keep up the research on the sculpture and let you know if I find anything.”

“That’s it?” He blew out a long breath.

“Is there something more?” she asked, hoping beyond hope that he’d give her some sign that her fears weren’t founded. All she needed was one tiny reason to launch herself into his arms and ask him to stay.

Their gazes held, and she could almost feel the current of electricity running between them. Emmaline wanted to believe that Brian would tell her something more. That he would give her what she needed to hear, the admission of love she was too afraid to say to him.

About the Author:

: USA Today bestselling author Michelle Major loves stories of new beginnings, second chances and always a happily ever after. An avid hiker and avoider of housework, she lives in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains with her husband, two teenagers, and a menagerie of spoiled furbabies. Connect with her at www.michellemajor.com.

Facebook
Instagram
Goodreads
BookBub

Buy links:

Amazon
Barnes and Noble
iBooks
Kobo
Harlequin

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Mirrors and Mysteries by Christina Bauer

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Christina Bauer will award a $10 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. In addition the author is running an additional giveaway to celebrate this cover reveal. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Rapunzel meets Jane Eyre in the epic conclusion of this fairy tale romance!

Grayson Eyre has left her old life behind. She’s no longer stuck serving Lady R, a sadistic Rapunzel from the Lowood clan of elves. Instead, Grayson now teaches at the Thornfield home for shifter orphans. Even better, her boss is none other than the sexy alpha, Dex. It’s all good until a mysterious witch, Jocasta, appears in a nearby tower, demanding that Dex and Grayson discover the true nature of all Rapunzels. If not, Lady R will return to claim Grayson… and Thornfield will be wiped out by the evil Prism Master. Can Dex and Grayson discover the truth in time? And what will it mean for their growing attraction?

Secrets are revealed and feelings explored in this epic conclusion to the story of Dex and Grayson!

Read an Excerpt from TOWERS AND TITHES

Grayson

My escape spell dropped me off on a random floor somewhere. Literally. Talk about awkward. For a moment, all I can focus on is the literal pain in my butt.

“Okay, that hurt,” I murmur.

“Grayson!” Oh, no. That’s the Prism Master.

The mirror dropped me off at the Refraction palace. As in, the one place I did not want to visit.

Rising, I slap on a smile. It’s never worked on the Prism Master before, but it’s not like there are a ton of options here. “I bet you’re wondering how I escaped. You see—”

A shiver runs up my back. It’s so intense, I forget what I was about to say.

What’s happening?

Suddenly, all my nerve endings go on alert. No doubt about it. Someone’s behind me. Inch by inch, I turn around. And there, I see a man.

Not just any man, mind you. He’s the one I’ve daydreamed about. Everything’s perfect, from his strong jawline and full lips to his very long and touchable hair. And the fact that he’s wearing an all-black outfit with a cape? That’s never a bad fashion choice. I may even be drooling a little.

My friend, Elle, keeps telling me that I’ve never met a real guy before. I’ve told to her stop being dramatic. But now? Elle is so right.

The Prism Master addresses the dream man. “If you’ll excuse us, Dex, I must speak with my ward.”

Dex. That’s his name.

I should be worried about the Prism Master and my failed escape attempt. I’m not. Instead, Dex and I stay in a serious state of eye lock. Connections form. Something awakens inside me.

“Dex,” repeats the Prism Master. “I asked you to leave.”

My brows lift. The Prism Master has beaten into my head that I’m a tower tithe, end of story. I must be linked with this Dex. Could he be a Rapunzel? I’d never heard of a male Rapunzel before. But if Dex is one? I’m in.

Dex ignores the Prism Master. “Grayson… Is that your full name?”

“Grayson Eyre,” I reply.

Dex smiles. “Nice to find you.”

My insides get all twisty at those words. I have the strange impulse to grab this guy’s palm and race for the exit. I even raise my hand a little, ready to clasp his.

Suddenly, lights flare all around. A magical wind strikes up. Cords snake out from the mirror behind the Prism Master. A sense of weightlessness surrounds me. Fast as a whip, I’m dragged into the mirror.

About the Author:Christina Bauer thinks that fantasy books are like bacon: they just make life better. All of which is why she writes romance novels that feature demons, dragons, wizards, witches, elves, elementals, and a bunch of random stuff that she brainstorms while riding the Boston T. Oh, and she includes lots of humor and kick-ass chicks, too.

Christina graduated from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School with BA’s in English along with Television, Radio, and Film Production. She lives in Newton, MA with her husband, son, and semi-insane golden retriever, Ruby.

Newsletter
Blob
Facebook
Twitter
TikTok
Instagram
LinkedIn
Monster House Books

Mirrors and Mysteries, Book 9 of Fairy Tales of the Magicorum 

Amazon
Barnes and Noble

Towers and Tithes, Book 8 of Fairy Tales of the Magicorum 

Amazon
Barnes and Noble

a Rafflecopter giveaway

NOTE: The author is also running a separate Rafflecopter on her site: Enter Christina's Rafflecopter here.

The Abandoned by Jake Cavanah

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Jake Cavanah will be awarding a $10 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Once an uninhabited island off the California coast, the government used Morple to quarantine minorities during the sonoravirus pandemic from 2030 to 2045. At its conclusion, Morple became the country’s fifty-first state. This is where sisters Robin Karros’ and Ariana Jackson’s tragic journey began. As two of the first children officials checked into and raised in a state-run program responsible for inflicting severe abuse on Morple’s youth, they shared hardships that strengthened their bond. After a social revolution put an end to the program and freed them, Robin and Ariana went their separate ways. Now that it is 2089 and each has achieved prosperity, their paths intersect after spending the latter portion of their lives apart. Even though it goes against protocol, Ariana reestablishes a relationship with her older sister and integrates with her family. In doing so, she risks her marriage and husband’s business interests, but it causes her to realize she must make up for her life’s biggest mistake. It soon becomes apparent the fate of Robin, Ariana, and others has been more intertwined than they ever could have imagined.

Read an Excerpt

NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR: As much as we hate him, the antagonist moves the needle! The beginning demonstrates he was, what appeared to be, a working man, but then it becomes clear he is deranged in the head. I also believe it contains enough intrigue to get readers interested without spoiling too much of the plot, even though this is significant to the story.

When he wasn’t indulging himself in a novel or soaking in his multimillion dollar vantage point, Reginald often reflected on his accomplishments and miscues. To the dismay of many, accolades riddled Reginald’s resume. He negotiated the details of historical mergers with clean energy companies that heavily impacted Morple’s economy, boosting the state’s impact on the US’ role in clean-energy initiatives across the globe. He bullied through legislation allowing the advancement of A.I. in The District to pass. He orchestrated deals involving Morple-based companies selling clean resources to states running out of them. Reginald’s fingerprints were all over Morple’s foundation. The good and the bad.

The years Reginald mentored Robin and Ariana were the most fulfilling of his life. Possessing that much power over two untouched girls was an incredible opportunity he felt extremely fortunate to experience. Regrettably, Reginald let it get away from him prematurely.

The night he let himself into the Sorens’ shitty apartment and found Robin on the couch alone he knew he had stumbled upon someone special. During their first interaction, he could feel their connection begin to take its shape, as she showcased her toys to him and explained what made each one unique. A gesture he would always remember with great fondness is when he rubbed her soft cheeks with his thumb and she smiled up at him with those jaw-dropping eyes, even so early on in her life. Robin was too young to express her thoughts, but Reginald detected their bond right off the bat. From that point on, everything he did was in an effort to earn Robin’s genuine love. Reginald became more enamored with her as she continued to develop throughout the years. Her body and mind began to take shape at quite a young age, and he considered it a privilege he was the first and, what he thought at the time, the only man who will ever have her. As in love as he was with Robin, Reginald was regularly depressed at his inability to mold her into who he wanted her to be. Yes, he punished her periodically by way of sex, but he had the best of intentions. He thought if he demonstrated what followed unacceptable behavior she would no longer act in that manner. This proved to be counterproductive because her disobedience continued, and she associated them becoming one as a punishment, as opposed to immersing herself in their affliction. If it weren’t for Richard, Reginald would have likely committed suicide well before Morvo, when he realized Robin would never truly love him. A few times standing at the ledge of his property, he almost found enough courage to do it, but he was too much of a coward to act on his true intentions. He told himself it was because he didn’t want to leave Richard without any parents, but the truth was he was too craven. Reginald’s disheartened love life took precedence over his only son’s well-being.

About the Author:

Jake Cavanah is passionate about writing imaginative stories that include messages he wants readers to apply to their own lives, utilize to better understand others, or both. If after reading his work people find themselves more capable of seeing particular situations they encounter from another perspective, he accomplished his goal.

When Jake is not writing he is reading, golfing, playing tennis, cooking, or enjoying the company of his dogs Murphy and Sophie with his girlfriend Scout. Aside from becoming a full-time author, one of Jake's main aspirations is to move to Oregon and start a family.

Website
Instagram
Twitter
LinkedIn
Goodreads
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Behind the Mask by Thomas Grant Bruso

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Thomas Grant Bruso will be awarding a $10 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Seventeen-year-old Jesse has a babysitting gig at the Linderman’s house on Halloween. He loves watching Christie and Dylan and is thrilled to see them dressed up in cute, creative costumes. When he arrives at their house, Jesse knows it will be a fun-filled night of pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating.

But Jesse quickly realizes Halloween is not only about candy, pumpkins, and scary costumes. It’s known for tricks and ghoulish things and can bring out crazies. While trick-or-treating, he notices a strange person wearing a glow-in-the-dark mask watching him from the shadowy street.

The rest of the night turns into a cat-and-mouse game of survival. Strange things start to happen at the Linderman’s residence, setting Jesse on edge, making him apprehensive somebody might be taking the spirit of Halloween too far.

Will Jesse survive the things that go bump in the night, or will he become just another tall tale this Halloween?

Read the Excerpt

I leaned my forehead against the doorframe and closed my eyes, waiting a beat. When I opened my eyes, I watched the vehicle reverse and slowly pull out into the street, braking for children running by. The headlights bounced up and down as the vehicle's wheels rolled downhill along the raised trajectory of the driveway.

As I watched the car drive off, its red taillights blinking as if in warning, my chest tightened like a clenched fist for some indeterminate reason, and an uncomfortable heaviness settled inside me. I let the curtain fall from my slippery fingers back into position, and I leaned against the wall to catch my breath and bearings.

I climbed the stairs and relieved Christie, telling Dylan he had to dry off, dress, and get into bed. He turned on his brotherly charm and debated with me about bedtime. “Your mom and dad were strict about what time you had to be in bed,” I told him.

“Just go to bed, Dylan,” Christie yelled from her bedroom.

Dylan sat on the bathroom floor, pouting and wrapped in a towel, as I drained the tub and put away his toys. “I’ll read you a story before I turn out the light,” I said.

“Batman, please,” he begged.

“Dry off and get into your pajamas.”

He stood and stomped out of the room.

“Stop being a baby!” Christie yelled from down the hall.

“I ain’t a baby!” Dylan shot back.

“I’m not a baby,” his sister corrected him.

I stepped out into the hall to referee their sibling mudslinging. “I can skip story time,” I said to both of them. “Is that what you want?”

A unison of “Nos!” shot out into the hall from their open bedroom doors, the only unanimous decision they’d made as brother and sister that night.

...

I read to Christie, who couldn’t keep her eyes open for more than five minutes. I gave Dylan a glass of water and set it on his night table. I ran my hand through his floppy brown bangs that had been spared from the vomit, and he fell fast asleep from the steady, relaxing raking gestures of my hand in his hair.

As much I enjoyed story time with the kids, I couldn’t wait to delve into my quiet corner of the house with a cup of tea. I wanted to start on my homework, especially after Dylan’s stomach-churning episode.

I pulled the comforter up around his back and reached over to shut the lamp off. I left the Godzilla nightlight lit up across the room and cracked the door open ajar. I checked on Christie one last time before heading downstairs. I poked my head into her room to make sure she wasn’t dreaming. After I’d finished reading Dr. Seuss to her, she told me that she didn’t sleep well when her parents were not home.

I told her that I’d be downstairs, and if she woke up scared to come down, I’d fix her a glass of milk. She felt safer with the door wide open, she told me. I wished her goodnight and crept downstairs to the kitchen.

I microwaved a cup of water and brewed one of Mrs. Linderman’s decaf black tea bags for five minutes while I rummaged in my bookbag for my math homework. Before sitting at the kitchen table, I plated three chocolate chip cookies from Mrs. Linderman’s fresh-baked stash.

I blew on the hot tendrils of steam wafting up from the teacup and dunked a cookie. My empty stomach growled at the aromatic chocolaty smell. I looked around the silent kitchen, chewing and dipping. Peace and quiet, finally, I thought, resting my elbows on the tabletop and sitting hunched forward under the yellow globe of light from the stained-glass ceiling lamp hanging overhead, savoring the deliciously sweet dessert.

Without Christie and Dylan talking and nagging and carrying on about something, I felt my thoughts winding down, the wheels in my mind slackening to the speed of a snail. My heightened anxieties dwindled like the setting sun. I worked on the half dozen Algebra questions for class, showing my work on separate pages in my notebook, and struggling with a few questions when a sound from outside jerked me out of my reverie.

I looked up and stared down the hall leading into the living room. Shadows danced beyond the drawn lace curtain on the front door. I thought I heard footsteps on the porch steps, but it was the wind tugging on the screen door, yanking it open, and slamming it against the side of the house.

I thought I had locked it.

About the Author:

Thomas Grant Bruso knew at an early age he wanted to be a writer. He has been a voracious reader of genre fiction since he was a kid.

His literary inspirations are Ray Bradbury, Dean Koontz, Stephen King, Ellen Hart, Jim Grimsley, Karin Fossum, Joyce Carol Oates, and John Connolly.

Bruso loves animals, book-reading, writing fiction, prefers Sudoku to crossword puzzles.

In another life, he was a freelance writer and wrote for magazines and newspapers. In college, he was a winner for the Hermon H. Doh Sonnet Competition. Now, he writes and publishes fiction, and reviews books for his hometown newspaper, The Press Republican.

He lives in upstate New York.

Buy Links:

Amazon
Barnes and Noble
JMS Books

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Moscow Affair by Nancy Boyarsky

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Nancy Boyarsky will be awarding a $20 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

"The Moscow Affair is a thoroughly entertaining and unforgettable thriller punctuated by smart dialog, richly crafted scenes, and a topical plot." –Dave Edlund, USA Today bestselling author of Valiant Savage

In this fast-paced mystery, P.I. Nicole Graves agrees to an unusual, short-term assignment working for MI6 in Russia. It sounds straightforward, even pleasant: a two-week luxury riverboat cruise on the Volga, observing a group of fellow passengers and filing a daily report on their activities. It's simple enough, except for one caveat: No matter what these people do, she’s to tell her handler at MI6—no one else, especially not the Russian police. When one of the riverboat passengers winds up dead, Nicole realizes this assignment was anything but straightforward.

Soon, Nicole is immersed in a high-stakes game of murder and espionage where trusting a stranger can be as deadly as a bullet.

"Nicole Graves is the best fictional sleuth to come down the pike since Sue Grafton’s Kinsey Millhone." –Laura Levine, bestselling author of the Jaine Austen Mysteries

The Nicole Graves Mysteries have been compared to the mysteries of Mary Higgins Clark and praised for contributing to the "women-driven mystery field with panache" (Foreword Reviews) as well as for their "hold-onto-the-bar roller coaster" plots (RT Book Reviews).

Read an Excerpt

When Nicole opened the door, Kolkov was even more abrupt than on his previous visit. No greeting, just, “Get dressed. I take you in for questioning.” He talked fast and fairly vibrated with impatience.

“Why can’t we do it here like before?” Nicole said.

“Get dressed!” He shouted, pointing to the bedroom. “I give five minutes.”

Kolkov was waiting at the door and seemed to be in a tremendous hurry. As she approached, he stepped toward her and firmly gripped her by the arm, as if he expected her to try to escape. She pulled back, pointing to the closet. “I have to get my jacket,” she said, pointing to the hall closet. He let go so she could pull out her zippered hoody and put it on. It was going to be cold out, and longed for her warm coat, but it was in the hamper, stained with Chet’s blood. Before she could finish zipping up the hoody, Kolkov took hold of her arm again and was pulling her out the door.

Other passengers stared as Kolkov led Nicole down to the main deck and across the ramp to the ship next to theirs. Surely they could tell she was being taken from the ship involuntarily; perhaps they recognized Kolkov from the day before. But no one stepped forward to ask what was happening. Nicole wondered what they were thinking.

The pair of them drew an even larger audience as they walked through the four vessels anchored between Queen of the Volga and the dock. Finally, they reached the street, where a boxy black sedan was standing at the curb with a uniformed policeman at the wheel. Kolkov put Nicole in back, not relaxing his hold on her until he was about to close the door. He climbed in the the front seat, and they took off.

About the Author:

Nancy Boyarsky is the author of the Nicole Graves Mysteries. Her sixth installment of the series will be released September 2021.

Nancy has been a writer and editor for her entire working career. She coauthored Backroom Politics, a New York Times notable book, with her husband, Bill Boyarsky. She has written textbooks on the justice system and contributed to anthologies, including In the Running about women’s political campaigns and The Challenge of California. She has also written for the Los Angeles Times, West magazine, Forbes, McCalls, Playgirl, Westways, and other publications. She was communications director for political affairs for ARCO.

In addition to writing mysteries, Nancy is producer and director of the “Inside Golden State Politics” podcast.

Website
Touch of Flame Books

Amazon
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-moscow-affair-nancy-boyarsky/1138867170

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Soft Heart by Megan Slayer

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Megan Slayer will be awarding a prize pack featuring a necklace made by the author to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Can two broken souls be repaired with a lot of love and a little power from the gods?

Leto, the goddess of motherhood and womanly demure, wants to be anything but bashful. Working in Las Vegas in the music business has proven she can’t be coy if she has desires, but the man she loves isn’t available. What’s a goddess to do?

Help break a curse, that’s what.

Tommy has loved Leto since the day they met, but he never thought she’d want to be with him. He’s also got a girlfriend. When his girlfriend leaves him for his brother and curses him, it’s up to Leto and Tommy to admit their deepest desires—they want to be together.

There’s just the matter of breaking that pesky curse…

Read an Excerpt

©Megan Slayer, 2021, All Rights Reserved

Hera sighed. “I’ll need to contact Zeus to get this fixed. Keep an eye on him and I’ll get the security team to move him inside, too.” She left Leto alone with Tommy.

Leto spread her hand on his arm. Unlike when Hera touched him, he felt this contact. Her touch, warm and inviting, seeped into his skin. He looked into her eyes. What’s happening to me?

She smiled and kept her hand on him. “So, here’s the problem. You were cursed. I don’t know how it happened, but you were. I can’t fix it right now, but Hera can.” She stroked his arm. “You’re not dying, but it’s like you’re being frozen.”

The revelation wasn’t very comforting.

“Who hates you so much that they’d curse you?” Her brow crinkled. “I learned the hard way that no one should be punished this way.”

He wished he could tell her the truth, but without his voice, he was helpless.

“I’ll make sure you’re in our suite, so I can keep you company.” She yanked her fingers away. “Sorry. I shouldn’t touch you without your approval.”

I don’t mind. He liked the way she touched him with reverence. Like he mattered. I wish you could hear me.

She tipped her head, then frowned. “When I left you out here, Missy passed me. She had a guy with her. I don’t know him.”

Of course she didn’t. He refused to subject Leto to Duncan. He might be Tommy’s brother, but Duncan was a rotten man. Duncan couldn’t handle not being on top and Tommy couldn’t lose Leto, especially not to him.

“I’ll fix this,” she said. “I refuse to let you stay in the stone. Promise.”

When she said those things, he believed her. He trusted Leto, too. When she smiled, he saw her in a different light. She could be his salvation.

Right now, she was his only hope.

About the Author:

Megan Slayer, aka Wendi Zwaduk, is a multi-published, award-winning author of more than one-hundred short stories and novels. She’s been writing since 2008 and published since 2009. Her stories range from the contemporary and paranormal to LGBTQ and white hot themes. No matter what the length, her works are always hot, but with a lot of heart. She enjoys giving her characters a second chance at love, no matter what the form. She’s been nominated at the LRC for Best Author, Best Contemporary, Best Ménage, Best BDSM and Best Anthology. Her books have made it to the bestseller lists on Amazon.com.

When she’s not writing, Megan spends time with her husband and son as well as three dogs and three cats. She enjoys art, music and racing, but football is her sport of choice. She’s an active member of the Friends of the Keystone-LaGrange Public library.

Website
Newsletter
Blog
Facebook
Amazon Author Page
BookBub
Instagram
Goodreads
Twitter

Amazon
Evernight
Smashwords
Barnes and Noble
Kobo
iBooks

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tales of a Mermaid Gone over the Deep End by Teresa Fischtner

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Teresa Fischtner will be awarding a $15 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Advance praise (payback) for Teresa Fischtner:

"Well, this is a little embarrassing. I didn't actually read the WHOLE book, but it's probably pretty good. I'm not sure what she said about me, but you should know—SHE shot me in the back on my 19th birthday!" – Ronny Fischtner (author's son)

"I love my mom and I love MOST of this book. It should be noted that my bowling has improved, I've given up hockey, accounting is for nerds, pancakes is food for super heroes and no one needs to count how many boyfriends I've had." – Malyn Fischtner (author's daughter)

"I'm pleased to be the source of so much humour for my wife. I just wish she didn't feel the need to publish it." – Ron Fischtner (author's husband)

"It was the last class of the evening that I was teaching, and we were doing our stretches, and at the surface of the water I noticed a single floating nipple happily bobbing away on its own. Unsure if its owner was still in the water, I quietly asked the nearest lady, "Excuse me, could you just pass me that nipple over your right shoulder?

"There I held a lovely C-cup breast that went rogue. I made posters for the lost breast (seriously, I made missing boob posters). No one claimed her. I introduced her to all the instructors, but no one recognized her (honestly, they all look the same after a few years at the pool). No one ever claimed Betty (yes, we gave her a name). Betty stayed on the teachers' table in our special little box for a long time. Eventually, like all good boobs, she wrinkled up, lost her bounce, and sagged lower and lower in the box until we all forgot how much fun she was when we first found her."

This is a feel-good book of true short stories about me, my family, friends, and my aquafit business, Over the Deep End. We all have stories to share, and the true ones are always the best. I'm sharing some of my most vulnerable moments, some of my greatest moments, and some of my saddest. Hopefully, in one story or another, you find something way better than me—you might find you. We all have a story and a different way to tell it. I hope telling my stories helps you tell some of your own.

Read an Exclusive Excerpt

Dad was very generous of his time and his resources; it came naturally to him. He was also painfully empathetic. During my first pregnancy, I was having nightmares about giving birth. I didn’t want to do it. Don’t get me wrong. I wanted that kicking, nauseating bundle of sleepless nights out of me. I just didn’t want to give birth to it. I wanted a c-section. I talked to my doctor, who suggested I start hypnosis to calm my fears. My mom was a midwife. She knew I would be fine and kept telling me so.

My Dad wanted me to have whatever I wanted to have (like a pony for my birthday!). He went to my doctor’s office, where he was not a patient and did not have an appointment. He wanted to talk to my doctor, and he would sit and wait until he saw him. Sit and wait, he did, for hours, until eventually, my doctor tired of the receptionist asking, “What are we going to do with this guy? He won’t leave.” Dad wanted to get me a c-section. He asked my doctor to promise me a c-section to put me at ease and bill him directly so as not to abuse OHIP. My doctor tried to explain that vaginal birth was so much better for both mom and babe, but I was both mom and babe in Dad’s eyes, and his little girl wanted a c-section. Neither my mom nor dad told me about his visit to my doctor’s office. I found out about it at my next check-up. That made for a tearful conversation with my doctor, who was also a father himself and understood that kind of love.

My son, Ronny, was born a few months later and after thirty hours of labour, guess what I got, a cesarean. Never ever wish for a c-section; lesson learned, lady Karma. My mom and dad were the first ones at the hospital. I think my dad would have just as soon swaddled me in a blanket and held me on his chest, but that wasn’t going to happen. He was proud of me, and I had the finest example of good parents right there in front of me.

Ten months later, he had a heart attack; his steps to heaven were the first cracks of my heart. There are no words to tell you how much I miss my dad, but there are millions of words to share the memories of my dad, and for that, I’m grateful.

About the Author:

Teresa Fischtner is an "aqua entrepreneur." After 25 years working in accounting, she changed careers and started teaching aquafit at her family pool. Customers come to "Over the Deep End" for full body workouts in deep water and they leave with a sense of community and friendship that Teresa has created, and all her mermaids and mermen continue to nurture.

This is Teresa's first book; she writes from her heart with honesty and humour.

WEBSITE https://www.overthedeepend.ca/
FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/Over-The-Deep-End-535033316645038
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/overthedeependfitness/
GOODREADS https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21918424.Teresa_Fischtner

Get your copy of Tales of a Mermaid Gone Over The Deep End

AMAZON.COM https://amazon.com/dp/0228863007
AMAZON.CA https://amazon.ca/dp/0228863007
BOOKSHOP https://bookshop.org/books/tales-of-a-mermaid-gone-over-the-deep-end/9780228863007
INDIGO CHAPTERS https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/tales-of-a-mermaid-gone/9780228863014-item.html
BARNES & NOBLE https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/tales-of-a-mermaid-gone-over-the-deep-end-teresa-fischtner/1140326424
BOOK DEPOSITORY https://www.bookdepository.com/Tales-of-Mermaid-Gone-Over-The-Deep-End-Teresa-Fischtner/9780228863007
SMASHWORDS https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1108469

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Betrayal at the Border by Mark M. Bello

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Mark M. Bello will be awarding a $25 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Welcome to It's Raining Books. Was writing your first love?

No, I assume we are not talking about people like my mother, father, wife, children or grandchildren. Activities? I would have to say that sports was my “first love.”

Where do you like to write?

I have a home in Michigan and a Florida apartment. I have writing desks in each residence. I like to write at my desks.

Is writing everything you thought it would be?

I enjoy writing. Yes, the writing part is everything I thought or hoped it would be. Finding success or enough readers to keep at it is the challenge.

Who is/was your favorite character to write about?

While I like all my characters, Zachary Blake is the adhesive in all my novels and I have enjoyed writing his journey from down and out, almost disbarred, failure to Detroit’s “King of Justice.” Each of my novels have antagonists, which are also fun to write, and allow me to exhibti a ‘dark side’ that I didn’t know I had.

How do you form your story ideas?

Most of my ideas come from the “headline” legal issues of our day. Others come from legal experience and how I believe the justice system would or should handle a particular issue.

Do you keep notes during the day? (In case something inspires you or, if you had a lively conversation and thought, “Hey that would be great in a book.”)

Definitely “yes” to the second part of the question “hey that would be a great book topic.” As to the first, I wouldn’t say I keep notes. If I get an idea, I sit down and try to outline how to turn it into a compelling novel. I have been known to text myself, though.

Do you write in one sitting or in bursts?

I am definitely a “fits and spurts” writer.

What was the last book you read? Did it live up to your expectations?

The Breaker, by Nick Petrie. It was what I expected it to be.

What are some of your most difficult parts to write?

Background narrative and settings are difficult for me. I prefer action and dialogue.

Did this book follow your original plan? Or did it turn into something completely different?

Some of my past books took different turns, but Betrayal at the Border followed the plan from beginning to end. There were unexpected “quirks,” but the plan remained intact throughout. I am very proud of the result.

Did your characters ever stop talking to you at any point in your writing?

Interesting question. I’ve never thought of it that way. I am constantly thinking about how a particular character might react to a situation or statement made by another. Would the action or dialogue stop here? Is it time for a new chapter? Is there a cliffhanger? Are they progressing to a logical or interesting conclusion? But I can’t say they “speak to me.”

Was it hard to stay motivated during your writing process? What were some of your go-to strategies to stay on point?

Sometimes, the juices just don’t flow. I have no particular ‘go-to’ strategies. I just put it down and pick it up later, sometimes, much later.

Do you have a playlist for this book? Or any song that helped you develop a particular scene?

“Coming to America” by Neil Diamond. “Free. Only want to be free. We huddle close. Hang on to a dream.” America should be for today’s immigrants what it was to our parents, grandparents and great grandparents. People just want to escape tyranny and be free. Can’t we be warmer and more welcoming?

Lastly, what is one key piece of advice you would give to anyone wishing to go down the writing path?

Write for the sheer enjoyment, the pleasure of writing, much like someone else would enjoy sports, movies, reading, or a hobby. If you plan to make a career out of it, make sure you can afford the investment in time and money.

In Betrayal at the Border, attorney Zachary Blake returns to tackle two cases that strike at the heart of our nation's contentious immigration debate.

In Riverview, Michigan, undocumented immigrants Miguel and Mary Carmen Gonzalez are determined to realize the American dream. They find jobs at a local filler plant, have children, and lead an all-American life, that is until ICE raids their plant . . .

Canan and Karim Izady are naturalized citizens of the United States. They have immigrated legally from Kurdistan and have an American born daughter, Hana. Unable to persuade her mother to follow the young family to America, Canan and Hana travel to an ISIS hotbed so the child may meet her grandmother for the first time. With the war over, what could possibly go wrong?

Two unique immigrant families, two uniquely dangerous consequences of America’s dysfunctional immigration system. Enter Zachary Blake, superstar lawyer.

But, for the first time in a long time, Blake is out of his element—immigration law calls for the expertise of his specialist/partner, Marshall Mann. Together, two extraordinary lawyers take on a terrorist network and a broken immigration system. And master investigator Micah Love returns, racing against the clock to prevent tragic circumstances. In our politically charged, anti-immigrant international climate, will a Hail Mary be their only move?

Award-winning legal thriller author, Mark M. Bello, pits our nation's broken immigration system against important human and social justice rights issues, spinning a tale that shines a bright light on the everyday fears of immigrants all over these United States. Can Blake, Mann, and Love prevent a Betrayal at the Border?

Read an Excerpt

The Gonzalez family continued to live their lives as if there was no threat to their safety or freedom. What choice did they have? President Golding and ICE made good on their threats to communities in Texas, Mississippi, Arizona, California, and Florida, but raids had not yet happened in Detroit. However, everything changed in mid-September, the second week of school.

Reporters interrupted evening programming to announce ICE raids on businesses and manufacturing plants in Detroit and surrounding communities. Emma was horrified. She was convinced ICE would walk into Mama and Papa’s plant or, worse, break into their home and take her parents away, right before her eyes. She implored Mary Carmen and Miguel to stay home from work and hide or get in the car and drive away. She didn’t care where they went, provided they went somewhere where ICE was not grabbing people off the streets and taking them away.

Miguel tried to soothe his daughter. He told her everything was under control at the plant. The people he worked for would take care of them. They were ready if ICE agents came. People called lawyers were waiting by the telephone. They knew immigration law better than anyone and would protect Miguel and Mary Carmen.

“We are good citizens. We work hard, contribute to the economy, and pay our taxes,” Miguel explained. Emma understood only the ‘work hard’ and ‘good citizen’ parts of his explanation. He’s not a citizen, though, she reasoned, with maturity beyond her years. That’s the problem!

Of course, none of Miguel’s assurances were true. Miguel and Mary Carmen were undocumented. They had a small savings account and too little money to hire expensive lawyers to fight deportation. If ICE raided the plant, there was little the Gonzalez family or any other similarly situated family could do to prevent the consequences. They couldn’t run, and they had no place else to go. If they did decide to run, without their jobs, they would soon run out of money. They knew the day would come when their freedom would be threatened, but they hoped it would be later than sooner, perhaps after some type of amnesty program was introduced for people in their situation.

The following day, Miguel and Mary Carmen kissed their children goodbye and put them on the school bus. They pre-arranged with their pastor and members of their church to monitor the situation and make sure the kids were picked up and housed if anything happened at the plant. The church rallied to their side, offering the children room and board, if necessary. The couple watched and waved as the bus disappeared down the street. Emma and Emilio sat at the back window, waving, watching their parents disappear.

Will we see each other again? Miguel wondered, his eyes tearing as the bus drove away.

“Mis hijos!” Mary Carmen cried, clutching her husband, burying her face in his chest. “What will become of them?”

The couple embraced for a few precious moments. Finally, they separated and walked to the car.

About the Author:

As an attorney and civil justice advocate, author Mark M. Bello draws upon over 40 years of courtroom experience in his Zachary Blake Legal Thriller Series.

A Michigan native, Mark received his B.A. in English Literature from Oakland University and his law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. After working extremely high-profile legal cases, Mark wanted to give the public a front-row glimpse of what victims face when standing up for justice.

Combining his legal experience and passion for justice with a creative writing style, Mark not only brings high-quality legal services to his clients but captivating novels to his readers.

When Mark’s not writing legal and political novels, he writes and posts about fairness and justice in the civil justice system on his website, Legal Examiner and NotFakeNews. In his spare time, Mark enjoys traveling and spending time with his family. Mark and his wife, Tobye, have four children and 8 grandchildren.

Contact: https://www.markmbello.com/contact
Website: https://www.markmbello.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarkMBelloBooks/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JusticeFellow
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16283795.Mark_M_Bello
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mark-m-bello
Medium: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/lawyer-and-author-mark-m-8e59acf7b054
Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/Betrayal-Border-Zachary-Blake-Thriller-ebook/dp/B09FYJ6MWN/

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Romance Novel Formula by Alicia Leigh

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Alicia Leigh will be awarding a paperback copy of The Romance Novel Formula to 3 randomly drawn winners via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Is there a secret formula for writing a successful romance novel? Backed by research and professional expertise, The Romance Novel Formula provides everything you need to take you from idea to first draft of your breakout romance novel.

Join best-selling romance author and academic researcher, Alicia Leigh, as you discover:

*How to take your love interests on the “lovers’ journey” – inclusive of ALL types of romantic relationships: ménage, alien, LGBTQI, polyamory, etc.
*A unique five-act structure to make your story easy to write and manage.
*The specific story “beats” exclusive to the romance genre (and which other books on writing typically exclude).
*The story and character arcs necessary to classify your book as romance.
*How to avoid stereotypes by focusing on archetypes.
*Popular romance tropes.
*Essential writing techniques.
*Advice on dialogue.
*The most common writing mistakes . . . and how to avoid them.
*Goal, motivation, and conflict.
*Fear, need, and flaw (what are they, and do you need them?).
*Much more!

Complete with checklists and over 30 writing exercises, The Romance Novel Formula is the new essential romance writing guide for aspiring and experienced writers, plotters and pantsers, and professional researchers.

Read an Excerpt

How do I start the first act?

As a general rule, start your story with the person you want the reader to identify with the most. Readers tend to sympathize with the first character they are introduced to, so make sure you choose wisely. In the romance genre, it should be one of your love interests. Once you’ve decided on this character, you can write your first sentence. Use your first sentence to hook the reader into your story––this is called the opening hook. There are several ways to write a successful opening hook. For example:

Leave an unanswered question

An example from William Goldman’s fairytale romance, The Princess Bride: “This is my favorite book in all the world, though I have never read it.” Tell me that opening doesn’t have you asking questions and wanting to read more! Why is it his favorite book … and how does he know if he has never read it? Questions, questions, and more questions.

Hint at the theme

You can do this in a playful, serious, or even an ironic manner, such as the famous opener from the classic romance novel, Pride and Prejudice: “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.” This hints at the theme of marriage that will permeate the novel.

State an interesting character opinion

This differs from a hint at the theme because it gives us a glimpse into the character’s personality rather than the theme. In Boyfriend Material, Alexis Hall opens with Luc’s opinion: “I’ve never seen the point of fancy-dress parties.” This works because those who agree with this viewpoint will want to know if his reasons for hating them align with their own and those who love fancy dress will want to read on to find out how someone can’t see the point of them.

About the Author:

Alicia Leigh is a bestselling non-fiction author, international-selling romance author, identical triplet, writing coach, and hot chocolate addict.

She uses her postgraduate degrees in counseling from the Australian College of Applied Psychology and editing from Macquarie University to create believable, three-dimensional characters. Her certificates in forensic science and forensic anthropology from the University of Strathclyde add layers to the realistic crime elements in her stories. She has completed her master’s degree in writing at Swinburne University and is currently embarking upon her PhD in Creative Arts (writing) at Central Queensland University.

When not writing, reading, coaching, studying, or enjoying nature, she can be found having fun with her three gorgeous children (plus one laid-back dog and one hypersensitive guinea pig).

She is active on social media and encourages readers and writers to interact with her there. She writes romantic fiction novels under the pseudonyms A.K. Leigh and Leigh Hatchmann.

Website

*Fall in love … with Leigh*

Facebook
Instagram
Goodreads
Amazon Author Page

Buy links

Amazon
Amazon Au
Amazon UK
Amazon CA

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Underestimate Me - That'll Be Fun by Furiosa

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Furiosa will be awarding a $15 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

This book is a collection of rants, opinions, and observations on random subjects that I scribbled while running away from and toward my true self.

I hope my words can show others that there is life after years of breaking rocks on society's conformity chain gang and that real empowerment is being yourself and not what others tell you that you should be. You cannot sit and read the book of your life as it unfolds. You must write the next page yourself. That is the way to growth and to peace and yes, you can be homesick for places you have never been.

Book description by my Inner voice: This is a chunk of at times incoherent ramblings on life and people one meets as they wander aimlessly on the internet and through the so-called real world... a shambolic, circumlocutious clustershtuck of a sometimes crap-infused, possibly drug-fuelled word salad.

Read an Exclusive Excerpt

One life. Just one.

Why aren't we running like we are on fire towards our wildest dreams?

—Unknown Author

It is true that if you want to know where you will be in five years, you just need to look at where your friends are right now. I knew I was stuck, and it was time to start looking at the people I associated with.

It’s very queer the way your friends and others closest to you will try to talk you out of doing things that might change your world and, more importantly (to them), take you out of theirs. They don’t want you going for your dreams because they have long since given up on theirs. They want you staying right where you are. They don’t want you leaving the bubble and going to another bubble they cannot go to because they are afraid to follow you there. It would mean they have to take chances. They clutch their pearls and fret about what the neighbours, their friends, their family, and society might think. So, they settle for the bubble they are in. You should never settle for anything less than what you deserve. Friendly reminder: the only person you should allow to judge you and the only person you should give your power to is you.

I was surrounded by zombies who were dissatisfied with their lives but were willing to settle, even if it meant being absolutely miserable. I decided to grab some courage and be me. This time, when I met resistance from my friends, instead of caving in and going along to get along with their predictions that my dreams would bring about certain doom, abject failure, humiliation, and the end of my life as I knew it, I stood my ground.

About the Author:

Furiosa has been expressing her thoughts and ideas on paper, walls, and sidewalks since she could hold a crayon. Though she only recently published her first book, Underestimate Me. That’ll be Fun! She identifies as a bestselling author. She wants you to know that being yourself is your superpower. Furiosa loves autobiographies, classic old movies, all genres of music, chasing stars, and visiting far-flung places via roads less travelled.

WEBSITE: https://furiosabooks.com/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/people/Furiosa-Jones/100073421539012/
GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21918421.Furiosa

PURCHASE LINKS : Underestimate Me. That’ll Be Fun!

AMAZON.COM- https://amazon.com/dp/0228855225
BOOKSHOP- https://bookshop.org/books/underestimate-me-that-ll-be-fun-9780228855224/9780228855224
INDIGO CHAPTERS- https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/underestimate-me-thatll-be-fun/9780228855248-item.html
BARNES & NOBLE- https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/underestimate-me-thatll-be-fun-furiosa/1140324595
BOOK DEPOSITORY-https://www.bookdepository.com/Underestimate-Me-Thatll-Be-Fun-Furiosa/9780228855224

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Far Away Eyes by Megan Slayer

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Megan Slayer will be awarding a prize pack featuring a necklace made by the author to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

His lover died and Gage knows he's got to move on but what if there's a chance Rascal can come back?

Gage knows Rascal is dying. The gay cancer has taken over his life and is killing him more each day. Gage knows his love can’t save Rascal, but what if there is a chance to change the future?

Rascal isn’t done loving Gage. He’s not ready to die. If he’s willing to accept the magic from Darryl at Start Me Up, he can come back.

He’s going to return to his love and life, no matter the cost. Now if only Gage will accept him…

Read an Excerpt:

Copyright ©2021 Megan Slayer

“Okay?” Gage asked. “So? Do I take it to the apartment? What do I do with it? Is it a sex doll or something?”

I’m not an it. I’m still me. Rascal wanted to cry. The faraway look in Gage’s eyes cut him to his marrow. He’d made this man sad. He’d hurt him by dying. Damn.

“Oh, honey, you touch him to bring him to life. Once you enact the magic that way, you can talk to him and do whatever you want. He’ll be in there,” Darryl said. “He is in there.”

“You’re serious?” Gage turned his attention to Rascal. “It doesn’t look like him. This has the same eyes and hair, but not the tattoos.”

“It won’t for now. You have to establish the connection to him. Once you do, and talk to him, he’ll take on the characteristics of Rascal. He’ll look like himself again,” Darryl said. “Think of this as a pristine version of Rascal, ready to be brought to life and marked by time, just like the other. Create new marks and scars and memories this time around.”

Please touch me. I want the good, the bad, the joy and tears… I want you. He couldn't say any of those things out loud to the man he loved.

“A touch?” Gage crooked his eyebrow. “And he’ll come to life if I do? Really?”

“Really.” Darryl nodded. “Try it.”

Gage shrank back. “No. I don’t believe this. The magic isn’t real. Magic is sleight of hand and all that jive.”

Gage. Rascal wasn’t sure how to reach his lover.

“Did you see Eric, Randall and Steve? They’re products of this magic,” Darryl said. “Ask them.”

About the Author:

Megan Slayer, aka Wendi Zwaduk, is a multi-published, award-winning author of more than one-hundred short stories and novels. She’s been writing since 2008 and published since 2009. Her stories range from the contemporary and paranormal to LGBTQ and white hot themes. No matter what the length, her works are always hot, but with a lot of heart. She enjoys giving her characters a second chance at love, no matter what the form. She’s been nominated at the LRC for Best Author, Best Contemporary, Best Ménage, Best BDSM and Best Anthology. Her books have made it to the bestseller lists on Amazon.com.

When she’s not writing, Megan spends time with her husband and son as well as three dogs and three cats. She enjoys art, music and racing, but football is her sport of choice. She’s an active member of the Friends of the Keystone-LaGrange Public library.

Newsletter
Website
Blog
Facebook
Amazon Author Page
BookBub
Instagram
Goodreads
Twitter

Buy Links:

Amazon
iBooks
Kobo
Barnes and Noble
Changeling Press
Books 2 Read

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Mafiosa Princess by Liza Malloy

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Liza Malloy will be awarding a $10 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Two men love her. But only one truly knows her.

College Junior Giada Conti wants nothing more than to pursue a normal life fueled by her own choices. Unfortunately, she doesn’t realize her father’s business isn’t completely lawful, or how that fact will completely dictate her future.

Pre-law student Adrian Patras is certain Giada is the perfect woman for him, until he meets her family and grasps the extent of his girlfriend’s naivete.

As Adrian finds himself unwillingly pulled into the family business, Giada grows frustrated with his insinuations about her father. Meanwhile, Giada’s ex, the notorious Luca Marino, pops back into her life with his own criminal agenda that includes winning her back.

Mafiosa Princess is the captivating first book in the steamy mafia romance series that you won’t want to put down.

Read an Excerpt

Luca stopped walking and swiveled to face me, placing his hands on my waist. “Oh Giada, it’s killing me to see you sad.” He used his thumbs to wipe the tears from under my eyes and then he left his hands on my cheeks.

He was staring into my eyes as though searching for something. Suddenly his lips were on mine.

With his hands holding me in place, I couldn’t have easily moved if I wanted to, but regardless, I’m not sure I would have. Kissing Luca left nothing to be desired. It was perfect in every way, even when unexpected and completely inappropriate. His lips were soft and moist, his tongue exerted just the right amount of pressure, and he tasted like a refreshing mint.

When he ended the kiss, I was breathless and disoriented. I needed to say something, but he beat me to it.

“That’s better,” he said.

“What is?”

“Everything. But especially that you stopped crying.”

“You kissed me so I’d stop crying?”

Luca smiled. “I kissed you because I’ve wanted to kiss you for weeks now, but an added perk is that it distracted you from your sorrows.”

I had no idea what to say to that. Luca sounded sincere, but then again, he was a sweet talker. I never doubted his ability to say what people needed to hear to bend to his will.

Luca reached for my hand and continued walking along the beach as though we were two familiar lovers just out for a casual stroll.

“I was crying about Adrian,” I said, hoping to remind Luca that he wasn’t the one I was pining for.

“I know. And I have to say I agree with Gabriella. The best way for you to get over one man is to get under another.”

I stopped in my tracks, mortified. “Oh my God. You heard that?”

He nodded.

“We were not talking about you.”

“You most certainly were.”

I swiveled around to head back to our chairs. Not that I had any hope of personal space there, either, but it beat this odd walk.

“You kissed me back,” he said, jogging to catch up.

I considered denying that, but I was pretty sure I’d actually moaned at one point. “So? You’re a good kisser. That’s beside the point. You don’t think it’s a little strange that you’re trying to seduce me when I’m still hung up on someone else?”

Now Luca laughed. “If I were trying to seduce you, you’d know.”

About the Author:

Liza Malloy writes contemporary romance, women's fiction, new adult romance, and fantasy. She’s a sucker for alpha males, bad boys, dimples, and muscles, and she can’t resist a man in uniform. Liza loves creating worlds where her heroine discovers her own strength and finds her Happily Ever After. When Liza isn’t reading or writing torrid love stories, she’s a practicing attorney. Her other passions include gummy bears, jelly beans, and the occasional marathon. She lives in the Midwest with her four daughters and her own Prince Charming. Her books are available in both paperback and ebook, and can be found on Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Google Play, and more!

Website: http://www.LizaMalloy.com
Email List: http://bit.ly/34FrD71
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/AuthorLizaM
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/authorLizaM
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/AuthorLizaM
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/authorLizaMalloy
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2EY0rps
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2wMUVW2

Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Mafiosa-Princess-Romance-Liza-Malloy-ebook/dp/B09JGR84XY/ref=sr_1_1

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Heart Knows What the Mind Does Not See by Toby Negus

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Toby Negus will be awarding a $10 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

This is a thought-provoking and enlightening exploration of spirituality and perception. The text functions as a guide to self-improvement, with a mixture of autobiographical elements and snippets of universal wisdom. The speaker provides accessible solutions to life’s difficulties, and an outlook of optimism applicable to any circumstance. The illustrations and graphics are thoughtfully chosen, and the interactive textual elements give this work an originality that sets it apart. The speaker’s own experiences and conclusions are at the heart of this fiction, and the first person narrative voice creates a sense of proximity between author and reader. The text describes itself as ‘a journey to the heart’, and this truthful discovery of the self is reflected in the speaker’s revelation of his whole self through the text.

Frequent use of direct address and rhetorical questions promotes an active reading experience, in which the author opens up a dialogue with the reader. The text includes prompts and activities for the reader to engage with and learn from. Encouraging readers to take part in the text is emblematic of their journey to self-fulfillment and love, in which they must take responsibility for actively creating their own happiness.

The speaker depicts his process of enlightenment as a framework for others to emulate, and the format of the text demonstrates the transfer of agency to those who take part in the speaker’s challenges. This work ultimately teaches us that ‘we are the cause of what is’ and thus sheds light on the crucial idea that every individual has the power to create themselves and their world positively.

Read an Excerpt

A song without heart carries no life.

It is from the heart that comes so many defining qualities of love and the human adventure of life. It is the source of our abiding happiness, because the wish of the heart is for our happiness. It knows what is best for us because it knows us intimately. Within its chamber lives our loves, hopes, and our dreams.

The heart is the source of all the world’s greatness. It can pull star dreams to earth, for the heart has created all the wonders of the world, all the gifts of humanity and all the songs of love. It is the home of an innocence, a wise innocence that dispels the cynicism I hold in myself and of myself.

It is the place of our truth, not the truth of yesterday or tomorrow that my mind struggles to know, but the truth of the moment, the living truth. And when I allow it, it is a cathedral of light, a library of illumined text that describes the union of my heaven and earth. Its call has the power to move mountains or create the gentlest touch of love. It is the artist within, the writer of meanings, and the manifestor of dreams.

Although we live in a world of this-and-that, there is within the heart the dreams of forever and memories of the infinite.

About the Author:

Toby Negus has studied and taught spiritual and personal development in the UK and around the world for over two decades. He is qualified in advanced counselling, as a life coach and as a Cognitive Behaviour therapist. He is an Amazon best-selling author of a collaborative Conscious Creators book and has illustrated and self published two books on the subject of self-awareness and the spiritual journey. He is also a published author of a children’s book The Boy Who Dreamed in Colour. He has given talks and run workshops in support of his published work within the UK.

In the last few years, he has created many pieces of artwork that are a reflection of his spiritual journey. These have appeared in magazines and have been exhibited in the UK.

Website: http://www.tobynegus.com
Amazon Author: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Toby-Negus/e/B00PS7U9VK
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/boathouse01
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OriginalArtWords/

a Rafflecopter giveaway