Follow on Bloglovin

Welcome to my place in the blogosphere!
feel free to explore the Flight Deck and check out my books and website.
Then fasten your seatbelts, sip a glass of something sparkling and let's chat awhile!
I hope you'll stop by again for guest authors and spotlights from time to time.

Beloved Enemy joined Starquest and Children of the Mist to continue the Destiny Trilogy and I'm thrilled to announce was shortlisted for the R.N.A. RoNA Awards 2017, awarded 2nd Runner up in the RONE Awards 2017 and was the winner in the SF/Fantasy category of the 'Best Banter Contest'.

Wednesday, 9 June 2021

AGENT ZERO - SPOTLIGHT AND #GIVEAWAY

 Dear readers - I am so sorry this post is late going up - I've had a few internet problems but I hope you enjoy this taste of Janet Walden-West's great new fantasy romance - AGENT ZERO - and don't forget to enter the refflecopter draw to win an Amazon voucher!

Blurb:

He owns the spotlight, she lives in the shadows.

VEE

My only purpose? Keep lethal cryptids in check, and our Company existence secret.

Sometimes a girl needs a night of karaoke and tequila though. Instead, after a vicious new cryptid
species crashes the party, I end up saving and carting home a way arrogant, way hot chef. With Bruce Kantor now a temporary roommate it seems like the perfect time to indulge my forbidden civilian fascination—especially the friends-with-benefits part. But the feelings he ignites threaten my oath and mission.

BRUCE

Damn right I’m the bad boy of the culinary world.

I live for the limelight, and the legions of #BruceTheBastard fans love my temper as much as my food. After stomping out of one high-profile gig, all I’m looking for are directions to my next. What I get is a giant Komodo Dragon-wannabe, and Vee Ramirez, the most infuriatingly irresistible woman to ever hit my radar.

Even if we survive the relentless monster on my trail, our future is toast unless I can convince Vee there’s more to life than the Company.

Welcome to Region Two.

Print Length: 282 pages

Publication date: June 1, 2021

ASIN: B094DNGK3X

ISBN: 1737219018

Language: English

Buy Links:

Pre-Order on Amazon: http://mybook.to/AgentZero

Add it on Goodreads: https://tinyurl.com/rwpszc23

 GIVEAWAY:

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

 Excerpt:

Chapter 1 Bruce

Both singers were into their performance. The one brutalizing vocals though—she was in another league. Brown arms lifted high, watch-me pink skirt swirling around toned legs, she moved like the music was part of her. Like she didn’t give a shit about anyone’s opinion.

His phone buzzed again and he ignored it. The same as he ignored the woman who sidled close, brushing against his side. He frowned, scrubbing a hand over his arm to wipe away the itch from whatever faux-snakeskin fabric her dress was made of. He sidestepped to keep his singer in view. Hopefully, whoever it was got the message that he wasn’t interested as the pair launched straight into another song, murdering Lizzo with the same glee.

The lead singer flipped her hair in synch with the lyrics, laughing and swiping strands out of her eyes, oblivious to how her amber-dark waves fell, as long as they didn’t interfere with her performance.

His phone came to life again. The dumbass owner wouldn’t dare text after having calls ignored, but Bruce’s family certainly would. He pulled the phone out, confirming his guess. He swore as he scrolled, one missed call from the guy, two missed calls from his sister, who had stooped to having his niece text, complete with a five-year-old’s spelling errors and a photo with cartoon puppy ears and nose over hers. Like the little shit needed any help being adorable.

If he didn’t call, he’d probably O.D. from whatever next-level cuteness the kid came up with. He dropped a twenty on the bar and anchored it with his sweaty beer bottle. Giving the stage a last glance, he forgot what he was doing for an instant. The singer pivoted like she felt his gaze. Her eyes locked with his, humor and intensity shining.

It felt as if she was reaching out and physically touching him. Touching something under his skin, real and alive. Like with no effort, he could reach back, completing the weird connection between them.

His phoned danced in his hand, reminding him of his obligations. More bodies had packed the front of the bar. He aimed for the closest quiet spot, usually behind a restaurant or bar where employees ducked out to smoke or bitch about their boss. He spotted the exit sign and let himself out.

The door opened onto a side street and a strip of businesses. A boot shop, the real deal instead of the trendy stuff tourists gobbled up, took up most of the space. The rest was divided between a tiny jewelry store and a florist, their signs in Spanish. All were closed for the evening.

He hit redial, pacing back and forth through the alternating strips of light and shadow.

“It took you forever to call me,” greeted him, his niece as impatient as ever.

He couldn’t help grinning at the aggrieved, high-pitched complaint. “Since when is, let me check…oh, yeah. Since when is four minutes forever?”

“You’re old and don’t remember but minutes are looong.”

About the Author:

Janet Walden-West lives in the Southeast with a pack of show dogs, a couple of kids, and a husband who didn’t read the fine print. A member of the East Tennessee Creative Writers Alliance, she is also a

founding member of The Million Words craft blog. She pens inclusive Contemporary Romance and Urban Fantasy. As a two-time Pitch Wars alum turned Pitch Wars 2019 Mentor, Sherrilyn Kenyon scholarship recipient, and Golden Heart® finalist, she believes in paying it forward by supporting burgeoning Southern writers.

​She is represented by Eva Scalzo of Speilburg Literary Agency.

 

 

 

 

 

For insider news and subscriber-only info, subscribe to my occasional Newsletter. I promise not to spam and your in-box will only see an email from me every 3 or 4 months or so - unless of course I have something really Newsworthy to share! I also promise that I never have and never will share your information or email address with anyone or any organisation.  http://madmimi.com/signups/196357/join

Wednesday, 19 May 2021

Launch day for The Awakening by Dana Claire

Hello dear readers and Star Crew followers.

I'm sorry I'm still not posting very regularly. It's been a very difficult few months after the loss of my husband - but reading has kept me sane even if my own writing has been put on hold for a while. One of the books I've had the pleasure of being an Arc reader for is The Awakening, Book 2 of the Blood-light Trilogy. Read on for more information and my review.




The government called her a weapon. Her mother called her a gift. She called it a forced fate.

Beatrice Walker is no stranger to surprises and after the year she’s had, finding out she is responsible for billions of lives is a drop in the bucket. Until she learns there may be more to the prophetic plan to prevent the extinction of two planets—both Earth and Ferro, and that she isn’t the only Blood-Light they will need to fight the imminent threat of an asteroid hurtling toward the planets. 

 

 

 

He grew up a loyal heir. He trained to be a soldier. He found purpose with the Rebellion.

Cash Kingston didn’t think falling for a Blood-Light—part human, part Ferroean—was possible. But when he met Beatrice Walker, all of that changed. What didn’t waver was his quest to save his beloved planet Ferro and his new home, Earth. Not only from the oncoming asteroid but from leaders of both planets with more sinister agendas.

Together, Beatrice and Cash, plus their team, must uncover who they can trust, how they can stop their enemies, and what superpower matters most, or they will lose everything they are fighting for.

 Click the picture to get your copy 

Click the picture to get your copy


This is the second book in the Blood-light trilogy by Dana Claire, but there is enough back story skilfully sprinkled through that it's easy to follow the story without having read the first book, although it's certainly worth reading 'The Connection' first, if only because it's a really good read in its own right.

Dana Claire has the gift of placing her reader right in the setting, the descriptions are so vivid, it's almost like watching a movie, as each scene comes to life on the page. The characters themselves are complex and compelling, and each has their role to play in the story and is easy to like and relate to. Of course the main love interest is the connection between Cash and Bea, but Ashton is a fascinating character too, and while it's not exactly a love triangle in the usual sense, the relationship between the three of them is unique and fascinating.

I'm not going to give away anything about the plot, except to say that some of the concepts are highly original, and I haven't come across them in a science fiction story before. There are many twists and turns, culminating in a brilliant and breathtaking climax. The ending is a surprising cliffhanger, and although I'm not usually too keen on cliffhangers, this is a trilogy, so it's acceptable, and there is certainly so much depth and complexity in the plot it would have resulted in an extremely long volume if it had not ended where it did. As it is, the ending leaves the reader wanting more, and I'm sure the third book will be well worth the wait. Highly recommended and five comets from me!

 


 



 

For insider news and subscriber-only info, subscribe to my occasional Newsletter. I promise not to spam and your in-box will only see an email from me every 3 or 4 months or so - unless of course I have something really Newsworthy to share! I also promise that I never have and never will share your information or email address with anyone or any organisation.  http://madmimi.com/signups/196357/join

Thursday, 6 May 2021

Cover Reveal fr ACCIDENTAL FAE (Includes #Giveaway)

 


Accidental Fae
Fae War Chronicles Book 1
by Jessica Wayne
Genre: Paranormal Romance


Ember is dying.
 
Orphaned and unexplainably ill, Ember buys a one-way ticket to Ireland in hopes of finding peace before she passes onto the afterlife. But a wrong turn lands her in the clutches of a ruthless fae king, and Ember quickly realizes there are fates worse than death.
 
Held captive in his own castle.
 
Imprisoned beneath the castle he should have been ruling, Rafferty's barely surviving when a fiery stranger stumbles down the steps and illuminates a part of him he long believed lost forever. Trusting her may be his only option, but Rafferty has a curse of his own, and letting her too close could prove deadly to them both.
 
Perfect for fans of Karen Marie Moning, Sarah J. Maas, Kelly St. Clare, and Miranda Honfleur, Accidental Fae will bring you to the brink. It's explosive plot and outstanding cast will take you on one hell of a ride!
Fans of Jessica Wayne's bestselling Vampire Huntress Chronicles will recognize more than one familiar face in this series!
For a LIMITED TIME only, you can pre-order this intense series starter for only $.99 cents!!



Bestselling author Jessica Wayne writes paranormal and fantasy romance. She lives in Texas with her husband, three kids, and their two dogs.
She is skittle obsessed, enjoys the occasional whiskey, and is an ambassador for the mix-matched socks movement.
A believer in true love, Jessica also believes that good things are worth fighting for, and sometimes you have to risk it all to find your place in the world.





Read an unedited excerpt, grab some goodies 
and enter to win a $100 Amazon gift card here!


 

 

 

 

 

 

For insider news and subscriber-only info, subscribe to my occasional Newsletter. I promise not to spam and your in-box will only see an email from me every 3 or 4 months or so - unless of course I have something really Newsworthy to share! I also promise that I never have and never will share your information or email address with anyone or any organisation.  http://madmimi.com/signups/196357/join

Wednesday, 14 April 2021

THE RECLAIMED KINGDOM - Review, Excerpt and Giveaway

 Reclaimed Kingdom by Dana Claire

 I'm thrilled to feature Dana Claire's Reclaimed Kingdom on my blog today. Enjoy reading about his great book and don't forget to enter the Rafflecopter Giveaway towards the end!

 

 

The Reclaimed Kingdom by Dana Claire Publisher:  Chamberlain Publishing House (February 14, 2021) Category: Young Adult, Fantasy/Romance Tour dates: April 9-May 31, 2021 ISBN: 978-1792361357 Available in Print and ebook, 310 pages The Reclaimed Kingdom

 Description Reclaimed Kingdom by Dana Claire The Legend is true. The Fear is real.

                             The Reclaimed Kingdom by Dana Claire

Under the cruel ministrations of its Queen, the Kingdom of D’Land is in peril. With King Harrison away in foreign lands and neighboring Kingdoms unwilling to intervene, there is no one to protect the people from poverty, harsh punishment, and unreasonable rules of law – except for the Band of Brothers. Struggling with the death of her mother and the legendary Syphon powers she inherited, seventeen year old Dru wants nothing more than to escape her old life and join the motley crew of ruffians, pilfering from the rich to feed the poor and pay their taxes. She’s able to do just that disguised as a lad, and even when her nature is discovered, nothing changes – except for the way her friend Hawkin treats her. But Dru’s new world is overturned when she and the Brothers seize the treasures of a Prince who threatens to reveal her identity. Together, Dru and her chosen family must find a way to reclaim her destiny and bring balance to the Kingdom. If not, there may be no hope left for anyone.

 

EXCERPT From Chapter 1

"Houses, towns, drinking holes have all been burned to the ground as examples of what can happen if we do not obey. If we don’t fill the queen’s coffers, she fills our caskets.” I laughed mockingly. “She’s a fool, trying to drain dry udders. And you’re a fool blind to the truth.”

Anger rose inside of me, and it wasn’t drawn from the men. This time it ignited from the soles of my heels to the crown of my skull as I relived all that I have known, done, been through, but mostly all I have lost. I shook my head. I didn’t know this man in front of me anymore, and he didn’t know me. “No, you do not care. You lie at night on plush beds, inhaling the scent of fresh linens. You dine on hot savory meals prepared by your servants. You have shelter to shield you from nature’s many moods. Hah! Your purpose today is not to be enlightened but to save your life and those of your men. We are not jesters, here for your entertainment. So how about you save your miserable life, hand over your coinage, and let us on our merry way?”


Advance reviews for Reclaimed Kingdom by Dana Claire

"Ms. Claire has such a talent for imaginative magic systems. The Syphon in this series has abilities I have not encountered before. The ability to take emotions and how she deals with them are quite intriguing. In this story, Dru makes an interesting heroine with her contrasts of her life as a brigand and thief with her previous life. She is very much a Robin Hood character without falling into the tired tropes that can come with that. The male main characters are so different. Hawkin is intense and unrefined. Dodge is softer and somewhat of a dreamer. They are both fiercely loyal and capable. The progression of their relationships with each other and Dru has made this a fabulous and compelling story."- Aizlynne, Goodreads 

 

What an exciting, fast paced adventure! I loved this escape into a Robin Hood type world which had a refreshingly different twist. I was drawn into Dru's world from the first page and felt I  was still there when the book ended. 

Courageous   and independent, Dru has a unique talent, which is as much a burden as a gift. I don't want to give too much away, as it would spoil it for anyone who has yet to read the book, but there are many twists and turns before the climax. The two main male characters, Hawkin and Dodge, are so different to each other, but each is charismatic in his own way, and each would do anything to protect Dru. As their past and present relationship with Dru gradually unfolded, I could not help wondering which one of the two Dru would choose - or if she would have either one!

For me, this was a real page turner and I found it hard to put it down. I didn't want the story to end, and when it did, it left me wanting more - a lot more. It's not quite a cliffhanger ending, but it does leave a few questions to be answered, and I will happily be looking forward to reading the second book in the series. (Five Comets)


 

 Dana Claire

About Dana Claire

Author, Dana Claire, believes that a good story is made through strong character development. When readers become attached to the characters’ emotional state and are invested in their objectives, the readers are there for the long haul backing the characters and their emotions. How cool is it to read a book and think about the characters long after you’ve read the last page? She believes that the beauty of reading is that one can live a hundred lives within the stories of books. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to be a vampire, slay a dragon, or use a time machine, there’s a book for that. Website: https://danaclairebooks.com/ Twitter:
https://twitter.com/danaclaire143
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DanaClaireBooks/


Buy Reclaimed Kingdom by Dana Claire

Amazon IndieBound

 

 

 

 

 

 

Giveaway Reclaimed Kingdom by Dana Claire

This giveaway is open to Canada and the U.S. only and ends on May 28, 2021 at midnight pacific.  Entries are accepted via Rafflecopter only. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Follow Reclaimed Kingdom by Dana Claire

Teddy Rose Book Reviews Apr 9 Kickoff Shanna Amazon April 12 Review Sal Bound 4 Escape April 13 Guest Review Lu Ann Rockin' Book Reviews April 14 Review & Guest Post Hywela Lyn Romance That's Out Of This World April 15 Review & Excerpt Am Goodreads April 16 Review Betty Toots Book Reviews April 20 Review Kimberly D. Amazon April 21 Review Jas International Book Promotion April 22 Review Cheryl's Book Nook April 23 Review & Excerpt Ashley's Bookshelf April 26 Review Laura Lee Celticlady’s Reviews April 27 Guest Review Bee Book Pleasures April 28 &Interview Gud Reader Goodread April 29 Review Lily  Amazon April 30 Review Ashley Reading Bliss May 3 Guest Review & Excerpt Amanda O. Goodread May 4 Review Gracie Goodread May 5 Review Linda Lu Goodread May 7 Review Nora Binding Addiction May 10 Guest Review & Excerpt Mike M. Goodreads May 11 Review Lisa's Writopia May 12 Review Lisa's Writopia May 13 Guest Post Kathy Ordinary Girls Book Reviews May 14 Review Ellen S. Goodreads May 17 Review Amy Locks, Hooks and Books May 21 Review Mark S.Teddy Rose Book Reviews May 25 Review Mindy A Room Without Books is Empty May 27 Review   

I have also read the SF Fantasy novel Connection, by the same author, and it is just as exciting and intriguing as 'The Reclaimed Kingdom' although completely different. The characters are just as real and the world-building just as brilliant.

Praise for Connection by Dana Claire

“To begin with The Connection is an interesting book to wrap your head around, the opening chapter leaves patches and mystery which I find a good thing, it dragged me in and made me want to figure out why this dystopian time was like what it was. The main characters name is Beatrice Walker and the story, though not followed from her perspective, is based all around her. After the next couple of chapters, you get the concept of the whole new world and its so bitter sweet and beautifully unusual that you just want to discover more and more about this story. The made-up memories that are written have so much meaning and you get to experience these moments all over again. Then ending is so amazing, Dana Claire really knows how to leave a reader wanting more.”-John Kerry, Let’s Talk Knowledge 

“After the first chapter, I could tell that this book was going to resemble The Lux Series. The lux series is one of my all-time favorites, so I was genuinely interested in seeing where the author takes this story. I’m happy to say that I was not disappointed. I honestly couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. One thing I was not anticipating was the never-ending action. I loved how there was never a dull moment, as our main characters seemed to never catch a break.  Dana Claire has a way of getting under your skin because Beatrice and Cash have made it to my favourite characters list. I can’t wait to see what the author does next! I really hope it’s the sequel to this novel. That cliff-hanger at the end makes me want to read book two as soon as possible.”- Jessica Marie, The Mermaid Reader 

“Enthralling and well- crafted story. The author’s descriptions are so vivid you feel as though you are in the book. The plot of the story is suspenseful and hard to predict the next move because right when you think you know what is going to happen the story goes into a different direction. Dana Claire took me on a roller coaster of emotions all the way from the first page. I found myself not being able to stop until I completed the book. The Connection is indeed an outstanding and ingenious read. I eagerly look forward to reading more of her books.”- Chinnie N., Amazon 

“Sci-fi fantasy can be challenging, but Author Dana Claire did a fabulous job with this novel. The characters are great. They develop throughout the book in such a powerful way. I love Bea, AND I love her with Cash. The Connection is a book I could not wait to read every day. I loved falling into this story because I thought about the plot even when I wasn’t reading it. A telling sign it’s a great novel!”-Hey It’s Carly Rae




 

For insider news and subscriber-only info, subscribe to my occasional Newsletter. I promise not to spam and your in-box will only see an email from me every 3 or 4 months or so - unless of course I have something really Newsworthy to share! I also promise that I never have and never will share your information or email address with anyone or any organisation.  http://madmimi.com/signups/196357/join

Wednesday, 24 February 2021

Grace by Contract - Spotlight, excerpt and #Giveaway

 


Grace by Contract
Once Upon a Duchy Book 1
by Rachel Rossano
Genre: Fairytale-Inspired Romance


After her father uproots the family to the northern duchy of Brackenhurst, Grace Eldon and her four younger sisters struggle with a new life of hardship. Desperate to keep a roof over their heads amid mounting debts, she and her youngest sister seek employment in the Duke of Brackenhurst's household despite fearsome rumors.

Scarred and maimed from a terrible fire Silas Isling, Duke of Brackenhurst, buries himself in his work to avoid the stares of pity and fear. When one of the new maids shows no fear at his appearance, he is intrigued. That is until his meddling steward gives her the task of cleaning Silas' bookroom. It is a most unwelcome disruption since he prefers to be alone.

While a thief plagues his castle, an old nemesis reappears, and enemies invade in the guise of guests. Amidst the distractions and chaos, Grace brings some unexpected order. Once convinced his scars had stolen all hope for love, Silas finds his life forever changed by the quiet maid. Could she love a scarred Duke?

Inspired by Beauty and the Beast






Rachel Rossano is a happily married mother of three children. She spends her days teaching, mothering, and keeping the chaos at bay. After the little ones are in bed, she immerses herself in the fantasy worlds of her books. Tales of romance, adventure, and virtue set in a medieval fantasy world are her preference, but she also writes speculative fantasy and a bit of science fiction.




NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR:

Puppy Love

By Rachel Rossano

For the first time in my writing career, I wrote a dog into one of my books. Valiant is a black and white English Shepherd puppy. He appears with a flock of sheep that the Duke of Brackenhurst purchases to improve his agricultural endeavors. Unfortunately, Valiant and the duke’s steward don’t strike up a positive relationship from the beginning thanks to a few amusing mishaps. It quickly becomes clear that Valiant isn’t well suited for herding sheep. However, he is very capable of performing a more essential task, protecting the Duke’s most precious holdings. Now I can’t imagine the book without him.





Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

$20 Amazon 


 

 

 

 

For insider news and subscriber-only info, subscribe to my occasional Newsletter. I promise not to spam and your in-box will only see an email from me every 3 or 4 months or so - unless of course I have something really Newsworthy to share! I also promise that I never have and never will share your information or email address with anyone or any organisation.  http://madmimi.com/signups/196357/join

Saturday, 30 January 2021

Cut Her Out in Little Stars - An exciting new light Romance SF tale by Daniele Kasper

 
 
Cut Her Out in Little Stars
by Daniele Kasper
Genre: Science Fiction, Light Romance
 
 
A woman lost in time. A star system on the brink of war. A man haunted by past sins. Traitors lurk in the shadows while secrets threaten to put everyone's life in danger in the cold depths of space. Can a woman trapped in a strange new future be the one to save them or will be she the spark that ignites the war?
 
After an accident on a New York subway, Cara DeLeon finds herself in the future, but not the one she dreamed of. Fleet Commander Nikolas Caine defends the star system he calls home from space raiders called Hostiles until Cara's arrival sets into motion a chain of events that will change his world forever. Cara uncovers dark secrets that threaten to tear the star system apart. She must fight to survive if she wants to get home to her family. Battling a looming war and his growing feelings for Cara, Caine must finish his mission. Of course, Cara would end up falling for the one man dead set on sending her home. As the ghosts of his past catch up to Caine, Cara finds herself struggling to face an uncertain future.
 
 
 
 
 
Daniele Kasper’s travels have taken her around the world and back again, but her favorite adventures will always be found between the covers of a good book. From rescuing dolphins in the Florida Keys, to getting chased by grizzly bears in Alaska, Daniele has taken her adventures and used them as inspiration for her writing. Eventually, she married a horse trainer and settled down in central Michigan. She is now a farm girl with her husband, The Cowboy. They have four rescue dogs, a multitude of cats and chickens and a couple of cowponies. Daniele loves reading and writing fantasy and science fiction. She also loves all things Outlander and Disney, can’t grow a garden to save her life and occasionally moonlights as an elementary teacher.
 
 
 
 
 
Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
 
$15 Amazon
 
 

 

 

 

 

For insider news and subscriber-only info, subscribe to my occasional Newsletter. I promise not to spam and your in-box will only see an email from me every 3 or 4 months or so - unless of course I have something really Newsworthy to share! I also promise that I never have and never will share your information or email address with anyone or any organisation.  http://madmimi.com/signups/196357/join