Red Hot Heroes – Now available – 3 of the books to aid Wounded Warrior Project

Red Hot Heroes Release Day Blitz!

All gave
some… Some gave all.

So, several of my friends are releasing new books today.

The Red Hot Heroes collection from the Red Hot Authors.

Three of the authors, Magen McMinimy, Rene Folsom and Jodi Redford, will be donating all the proceeds from the sales of their books received until November 15, 2015 to the Wounded Warrior Project. buy a few books and donate to a worthy cause.

This is a cause that is close to my heart, as my Papa and my Dad were both in the Navy. The care and support of our nation’s military is essential, and with the lack of support coming from our government in recent years, the groups like Wounded Warrior Project are so important. So please, take a chance and buy a book for .99¢ and help a worthy program.

You can find all the information below.

Thanks for looking, and to those who buy, thanks for helping.

Find Home in the Heart of our Heroes this Veteran’s Day as
The Red Hots Release Red Hot Heroes!

BROKEN
SURRENDER by LORI KING

 

One bullet made it physically impossible for
Sarah Bryant to fulfill her dreams of a military career. With her family’s
sympathy suffocating her, she escapes to Stone River, Texas, determined to
rebuild a life and maybe find a new dream. 
Silas and Jeremy are two brothers who are as
different as Texas is big. One is an adrenaline fueled former Army medic, the
other is a laid back tow truck business owner. The two things they have in
common? They know they want to live life in a ménage relationship, and Sarah is
the woman for them. 
Sarah has too many doubts about herself to
believe she can be enough for one man let alone two. Can these souls find what
they need to grow together, or will they leave more emotional scars to match
their physical ones?

Amazon: 

http://tinyurl.com/njdon5u  
ITunes: http://tinyurl.com/q2c2cc7 
B&N: http://tinyurl.com/q4t6422 

www.LoriKingBooks.com ****

STARTING OVER by MAGEN MCMINIMY

 

“There was need laced
in every twist and sweep of his talented tongue. A need for something tangible,
something to connect him to the safety of the real world, to the living
breathing life he still held on to. A distraction from the death and sorrow
that carried over from months at war. “

 

All sales of this title through November 15^th, 2015
to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project

After running from the one
man who could have mended her heart, Callie Sullivan has been finding comfort
in her best friend, D. When heartbreaking news about D’s deployed husband,
Adam, makes its way to the states, Callie focuses on helping her friend learn
to survive after tragedy strikes. 
Recently returned from Iraq, Luke Merrick learns
about the attack on his former sergeant and best friend, Adam. Knowing D will
need all the support she can get, Merrick finds himself back where he lost the
one woman he thought could be his future.
With D’s heartache fresh and raw, now is hardly
the time for Callie’s past to resurface, bringing new danger to those whom she
wishes to protect and help heal. But life rarely gives Callie what she needs.
This Veteran’s Day, find home in the heart of
our heroes with Starting Over part of the Red Hot Heroes multi-author series
and stands alone for reading enjoyment.

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1FO97fq

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0165347FY

B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/starting-over-magen-mcminimy/1122749345

iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id1046446194

Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/starting-over-83

www.MagenMcMinimy.com 

**** PROMISE YOU by RENE FOLSOM

All sales of this title through November
15^th, 2015 to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project

Danielle never realized just how much her brother meant to
her until reality slapped her in the face, forcing her to wake up and pay
attention. After a shattering tour overseas, Dylan returned home to live with
Danielle. Knowing he needed more care than his sister could provide, Dylan
invites his battle buddy, Travis, to come live with them.
After a rather unorthodox meeting, sparks begin
to fly between Danielle and Travis. However, both of them know just how
difficult it will be for their relationship to blossom without Dylan’s
blessing, leaving them conflicted about how far they want to take it. Travis
wants nothing more than to earn Dylan’s approval—to promise that he will
cherish her—always.
Once Travis realizes he can no longer keep his
affection for Danielle a secret, things become complicated and the boundaries
between friendship and love cloud his future.
This Veteran’s Day, find home in the heart of
our heroes with Promise You, part of the Red Hot Heroes multi-author series and
stands alone for reading enjoyment.Amazon:http://amzn.to/1Wd9wds

www.ReneFolsom.com****

REPORT FOR BOOTY by JODI REDFORD

All sales of this title through November
15^th, 2015 to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project

Mason Gamble and Nash Vincent are pros at making people
sweat. As former Army Rangers who run the toughest, ball-busting fitness boot
camp in Michigan, they take great pride in that fact. But thanks to the
knockout brunette housesitting next door, suddenly they’re the ones
experiencing excess perspiration. Fortunately, the perfect opportunity to be
neighborly presents itself courtesy of a package delivery snafu.Regan Wallace has trust issues. Specifically,
trusting that her best friend won’t make good on her threat to send a
Strip-O-Gram for Regan’s birthday. Is it any wonder she’d jump to the wrong
conclusion when two gorgeous, camo-garbed hunks land on her front doorstep?
Woops. The crazy part? They don’t seem the least bit scandalized or offended by
her boneheaded blunder. Judging by the sinful heat in their eyes, they’re all
too happy to provide her with a little two-on-one dirty dancing. For a woman
recovering from a bad breakup, fielding the interest of two sex-on-a-stick men
is both surreal and exhilarating. Indulging a three-way fling? Completely out
of her comfort zone. But with her stay limited to a week, some
no-strings-attached sex might be precisely what she needs to get her confidence
back in stride.None of them are prepared for the consequences
of a sexy fling feeling like so much more. As Regan’s stay draws closer to an
end, Mason and Nash realize there’s no way in hell they’re letting the perfect
woman slip through their fingers. And when it comes to fighting for her love,
there are no fitter warriors for the ultimate battle to her heart.

Amazon:
http://amzn.to/1H3QIq8

http://www.jodiredford.com/More_Books.html****SNAKE’S SALVATION by Aliyah Burke

Two people with painful pasts can create something
spectacular with each other.
Jason “Snake” LaRue was a Navy SEAL. Now he’s
not and he has trust issues and memories he can’t forget no matter how hard he
tries. His one solace is a woman who works at the local diner who chases away
the darkness in him. But would she ever consider a man with his past?
Loretta Swann has given up art and now works at
an all-night diner. Running from her past, she up and goes when the mood
strikes. Her one shining moment a day is when the ex-SEAL graces the
establishment. An impulsive kiss makes her wonder about something more with
him. But when she learns what he wants, will she run again, or stick around to
be Snake’s Salvation?

Amazon:
http://amzn.to/1H3QVcF

www.aliyah-burke.com ****HER HERO by Miranda Marks

Nate Morrissey has seen all kinds of action in
his years with Marine Special Operations, yet nothing compares to the adventure
he has at home with his new wife—what little time he’s been home in their brief
one year marriage. When he gets called out on a new mission at the beginning of
a long awaited leave, his bride lays down an ultimatum. Unfortunately for them
both, duty wins.
Becca soon realizes she wasn’t meant to be a
military wife. She thought she was strong, but the long months praying and
waiting for his safe return have left her broken. When he leaves her yet again,
she knows it’s time to call it quits, no matter how much her heart tells her to
stay.
Nate isn’t ready to let go of his wife just yet.
The fire they share is too hot to ignore. Nate comes home to an empty bed, but
refuses to let it stay that way long. Till death do us part means something to
Nate and he’s not dead yet…

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1LMZyNf
www.authormirandamarks.comMake Sure to Join our Event On Veteran’s Day!

Shuttered Affections by Rene Folsom – Release, Review and Interview

Title: Shuttered Affections
Author: Rene Folsom
Series: Cornerstone #1
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Release Date: October 15, 2013

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Purchase Links

NOTE: Purchase links will be available on my website the day of release. Visit http://renefolsom.com/shuttered on or after October 15th.

Synopsis

After escaping to a college town, Juliana Petersen was determined to put her troubled past behind her and make the most of life. She was satisfied with her current situation, or so she thought. It wasn’t until the day her new photography professor stole her parking spot that she realized there was such thing as lust at first sight. Now, she must struggle with the decision to break the rules and fall in love, or step back and let the chance of a lifetime pass her by—all while her past relationships come back to haunt her.

How many men will it take to break Julia’s hold on reality?

Warning: This novel contains sexual situations and is meant for adult readers ages 18 and up.

Review

Well, Rene Folsom does it again!  She has created hot, sexy characters with an undeniable chemistry that has the reader clamoring for more.  Folsom is the indisputable (in my humble opinion) Queen of the Tease.  If erotica were burlesque, she would be the Gypsy Rose Lee.

The immediate chemistry between Julia and Aiden permeates through the book like pounding sound waves as Folsom deftly builds the tension.  The characters are fantasy characters, but like any great writer, they are flawed and have had experiences that have brought them to where they are now.  I obviously enjoyed the romantic and erotic aspects of Shuttered Affections, but I also enjoyed the alternative plot line that involves Julia’s past.  Folsom has also developed serious subject matter in an acceptable and realistic fashion.

In addition, she has realistically painted a portrait of a fairly independent, yet insecure girl in her early twenties dealing with a new passion and an excruciating past that are about to collide.

I for one am looking forward to her second book in The Cornerstone series…. I need answers.  And I need more of Julia and Aiden… and whatever Rene Folsom is dishing up in the sequel to Shuttered Affections.

Excerpt

The electricity in the air told me he was coming closer. Footsteps, barely audible, whispered along the floor behind me.

My hands fumbled for the canister. I needed to pop the top off and carefully remove the film.

I could feel him close behind me. He was really close. As I successfully removed the film from its canister, I could feel him move even nearer. I felt his breath by my ear and heard him gasp slightly as a curl fell forward and must have brushed against his face.

I was just about done putting the film around the reel when I felt his finger slowly push the tendril of hair back behind my ear.

I deftly finished coiling the film and placed it in the developing tank. Once the lid was in place, effectively protecting my film from light exposure, I spoke.

“Okay. I’m good.” My voice was barely a whisper. I didn’t seem to have the strength to muster any more volume.

“Mmhmm…” he moaned in my ear. “Your hair smells divine, Angel.”

I felt his hand brush against the back of my ear and push my hair to the side, exposing my neck to his touch. I felt his breath on me and, suddenly, it was as if all the oxygen in the room had been used up completely. I couldn’t breathe.

“You’re so beautiful, even in darkness,” he said adoringly and I felt the tickle of his breath on my neck.

Warmth sizzled through my abdomen, my clit pulsed, and my nipples hardened. His words whispered through my ears, seductive and alluring.

His body pressed against my back and he wrapped his hands around my waist, sticking his thumbs into the waistband of my jeans. His fingers gently touched my hipbones. His touch made me arch my back and tilt my head to rest on his shoulder.

His lips, hot as fire, brushed along the column of my neck. I wanted to turn my body and wrap myself around him, but he held me in place.

“Aiden, I thought we were going to try and behave ourselves,” I said breathlessly as he continued his assault on my neck.

“I don’t care,” he mumbled, clearly aware he was melting me to the bone.

Animalistic lust took us over. Grabbing my shoulders, he quickly turned me so my chest pressed against his and shoved my back up against the wall with just enough force to tell me he was turned on as much as I was.

As if attempting to control his urges, he let go of me and I felt his hands press against the wall on either side of my head, just above my shoulders.

“Oh, God. I want to touch you,” he said hoarsely. “I want to touch every inch of you.”

I could tell his lips were so close. The tip of his nose brushed against mine, causing me to involuntarily tilt my head upward, attempting to close the gap between our lips. As if he sensed me pouncing, he turned his chin up, causing me to meet the scruffy facial hair on his jaw.

Unable to see my prey, I reached out and dug my nails into his strong back, pulling him closer to me and lightly sinking my teeth into his jaw. If he wasn’t going to offer his lips to me, I was going to take whatever part of him I could get between my teeth.

As if on cue, a rumble echoed from his throat. His hands snaked down my body, grabbing my ass and pulling me against him.

The move was so bold; I thought for sure he was going to kiss me. Instead, he tilted his head up, exposing his neck to my nibbling assault.

His body, hot and hard, pressed me against the cold, concrete wall. His hands, still on my ass, lifted me slightly so I was forced to the tips of my toes.

I felt his mouth on my neck again and couldn’t help voicing my pleasure.

“Oh, Aiden. Kiss me now,” I begged. I didn’t know why I had to beg this man to press his lips against mine. I only knew I needed more. So much more.

“Tell me, Juliana. Do you want me?” he asked softly, caressing my ear with his lips.

“Christ, yes!” My answer left my mouth before I even had time to process what I was saying. I was quite simply speechless.

“Then you shall have me… eventually.” With that, he let go, opened the door, and walked out.

I was left standing there, completely overwhelmed, and aching with desire.

About the Author

Rene Folsom, author of paranormal romance and erotica, lives in Florida with her husband and three kids. She has officially diagnosed herself with creative ADD and, if it weren’t for her day job as a web programmer, she would have a million and one writing projects going at once. In addition to web design, she is also a graphic artist who loves to create custom book cover designs for indie authors. She is definitely an artist at heart and would love nothing more than to be elbow deep in clay during her waking hours.

Rene believes that all fiction is based on some form of reality—otherwise we would never have the inspiration or knowledge to dream up the realistic situations we portray with our words. She is proud to say that her personal experiences have been inspirational, though perhaps not always identical to that of her fictional characters. Where reality and fantasy diverge, however, must remain her little secret…

AN INTERVIEW WITH RENE FOLSOM

Hi, Rene!! Thanks so much for taking the time to answer a few questions.  I loved Shuttered Affections, and I know that you have said several times that most of what you writehas been influenced by “real life”.  What in Shuttered Affections was influenced by Real Life experiences (that you’re comfortable sharing with us, of course)?

In Shuttered Affections, most of the classes Juliatakes and the locations she talks about were based on real life experiences.  I did go to college and majored in fine arts.  Maddy is also a real friend of mine I met in photography class and I still keep in touch with her to this day (although, her name isn’t Maddy).  However, the hot teacher situation is completely fabricated along with the club Julia works in.

This series has been several years in the making.  Do you feel as though you’ve changed as a writer or artist since you first started writing The Cornerstone Series?

Most definitely.  I learn new things each time I receive edits back from my editor and I learn something new from each reader who has valuable feedback for me.

I have dubbed thee the Queen of the Tease, because in my humble opinion, you are just that.  You excel at building tension and electricity between your characters and I think that permeates to the reader.  Is that something you do for story pacing or just to torture all of us reading your work?  It’s lovely torture, but still torture all the same.

The only way I can describe it is, it’s what I would want to read.  I don’t want a character who doesn’t feel.  I want to read, and write, something that makes my stomach flutter.

What is the hardest part about being a writer for you?

The time involved in meeting writing deadlines—that, and, the nerve-wracking days after releasing a new book.

Do you have any rituals when you’re writing?

Not really.  I just need quiet.

Are any of your characters inspired by real people in your life?

In Shuttered Affections, only a few characters are inspired by real people.

You mainly write romance and erotica, but do you have any aspirations to write any other genres, or mash-ups genres?

Shuttered Affections is considered romantic suspense, so I guess you could say I mashed up a few genres with that.  But, as far as venturing away from romance, I don’t plan on it.

Thank you for taking the time to talk to me today.  Before you go, is there anything else you’d like to let anyone know?  Maybe when the next Cornerstone book is due out or any other upcoming releases?

The tentative release for the second Cornerstone novel, Exposed Affections, is mid-November.  I have several other projects in the works at the moment and unsure exactly which I will be working on next.

Thanks again, Rene and much success!

Thank you, Shannon!  ❤

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Home Wrecker II: The Brooklyn Chronicles by Brenda Perlin – Release and Event

Home Wrecker II: The Brooklyn Chronicles by Brenda Perlin is being released on Amazon.com on October 11, 2013.

Please join the online Facebook party October 11 1:00 pm (PST) where there will be #fun #games and #prizes. There will be random #Ebook giveaways leading up to the event! https://www.facebook.com/events/207641289413064/

Synopsis: Brooklyn Rosen had high moral principles and was raised properly. Married for over fifteen years, those standards went out the window along with her fidelity when she met Bo. After becoming a self-proclaimed “Home Wrecker” Brooklyn left behind her marital home, along with the damage caused by her emotional wrecking ball. But the whispered remarks followed.

In “Home Wrecker: The Brooklyn Chronicles” we learn what shaped Brooklyn, the trials of an unhappy marriage and a deep abiding love that would not be denied. We meet a troubled, spiteful wife, who does not want to become an “ex”.

Will Brooklyn and Bo survive, or will all be lost to a bitter woman?

Blurb: In the past, I mean before the infidelity, I had always been someone who could be trusted. I believed if you didn’t trust someone, the results would come out in negative ways. Even though I never gave Gerard reason not to trust me, he always had fears and doubts. He saw me as a naïve “female” and thought every guy I came in contact with had an ulterior motive to move in. I always had to reassure him of my loyalty. Now that I had been caught doing exactly what he suspected, I gained a reputation as a cheater.

If you haven’t read Home Wrecker I it is a great time to pick up a copy!!! http://amzn.com/B00CKBWWIU

“Brooklyn and Bo, each unhappily married to others, must decide whether to stay with their spouses or give up everything for their love.”

HOME WRECKER IS BACK!

A Story of Love, Betrayal, and a Struggle to Keep New-found Happiness

October 11, 2013. Ladera Ranch, California: Brenda Perlin is back with Home Wrecker II: The Brooklyn Chronicles, published by Master Koda Select Publishing. This Contemporary Romance is set to continue the story of Home Wrecker I: Home Wrecker Chronicles in September of 2013. The reader will experience an emotional roller-coaster ride as the writer divulges the sad and dark times of Brooklyn, all the while provoking deep thought while re-living her memories through the reading experience.

Home Wrecker: The Brooklyn Chronicles provides a look into the heart and mind of a woman who cheated on her marriage and the reasons why it happened. It is honest. It is real. It is the story of what made Brooklyn the woman she is today, the decisions made that put her on the path she walks today, and it does it with an openness and honesty not found in many such stories. The book is well written and grabbed me from the beginning and held my attention until the very end.” – Crystal Schall, The Book Rack

Home Wrecker II: The Brooklyn Chronicles puts the reader on a journey through the eyes of the main character, Brooklyn Rosen. Her story, at times, is excruciatingly honest and evokes one’s own self-reflection throughout the reading experience. However, through the devastation and tribulations, the reader will also gain an insight to the inspiring strength of the heroine as she struggles toward personal happiness.

Master Koda Select Publishing is a small, but high quality, publisher of ebooks and paperbacks. The company takes pride in its authors by implementing aggressive marketing initiatives. Master Koda Select Publishing selects only a few authors per year to ensure they are receiving the attention they deserve.

For further inquiries and additional information, please contact: Kim Mutch Emerson http://masterkodaselectpublishing.com
homewreckerthebook@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/HomeWreckertheBook
https://twitter.com/HomeWreckerbook
Website http://www.homewreckerthebook.com/
Blog http://www.homewreckertheblog.com

Review – Mama’s Child by Joan Steinau Lester

Synopsis: MAMA’S CHILD follows twenty-three years in the life of Lizzie O’Leary, an idealistic young white woman who travels to the American South as a civil rights worker. She meets, falls in love with, and marries Solomon Jordan, a musician and fellow activist, who is black. Together, the young couple settles in the more liberal San Francisco area and starts a family: daughter Ruby, and son Che. They remain deeply involved in the Black Liberation Movement: participating in protest marches, and living in a home filled with Black Power posters, jazz, protest songs, and visiting Black Panthers.

 But by 1978, when the novel opens, there is tension between the couple. Solomon’s music career keeps him away from home too much, and Lizzie is frustrated: “I need you here. I can’t raise these kids by myself. And they need a black parent, some days I just don’t know what to do.” Eventually, the strain becomes unbearable, and they divorce when their children are still young.

 Their divorce deeply affects daughter Ruby, who is already suffering from a confused sense of self—“Am I black or white?” she continually asks herself. “Where do I belong?” She struggles with her own racial identity as well as her anger at her mother for splitting up the family. As for mother Lizzie, despite her attempts at trying to hold on to the emotional cord that binds them, the rift between mother and daughter widens.

 It isn’t until Ruby herself becomes a wife and mother that she begins to develop compassion and understanding for the many ways that her own mother’s love transcended race and questions of identity.

 Told in chapters alternating between the voices of the mother and daughter, MAMA’S CHILD goes deep into the raw emotions of love, family, and ancestry– from two points of view.

Review: This was a very interesting book for several different reasons.  The author’s life paralleled the book, but only in structure (she herself a white woman who married a black man and had two biracial children, as well as living in Berkley and falling in love with a woman), however, the characters’ themselves are completely fiction.  I also enjoyed seeing the perspectives of both characters, the mother and daughter, (who could be extremely frustrating at times) as they struggle to find out who they are, sometimes painfully.

The author, Joan Stenau Lester, recently mentioned that her reoccurring theme through the book is forgiveness, but I would also add that it is the importance of communication and even responsibility.  The pain that plays out is real and the frustration for me came from the fact that these characters don’t talk to one another.  But that happens everyday in real life, so the flaws these characters have are real.

This is a well written and detailed book, but it is also extremely emotional.  It will elicit emotion from the reader, whether it be joy, encouragement or rage and disappointment.  I was definitely drawn into the story.  I would be only a few years younger than the character of the daughter, Ruby, so it was interesting to see different things through her eyes that I’ve never seen, nor will I ever see.  I also have a biracial niece, so it was interesting to see what the mother in this story was thinking.  Overall, I would recommend this book, I give it 4 stars.  It was definitely thought provoking and heartfelt.

TWIST Reviews – One Story at a Time – Metronome by Eaton Thomas Palmer

Disclaimer: These reviews pertain to stories in the anthology – Paranormal Anthology with a TWIST.  I have a story in this book (Bloodlines – I won’t be reviewing my story ;), so many feel that I cannot objectively review other stories in the same book I am also featured in… that being said, to each their own, I know my own level of integrity.  Thus, people can choose to believe me or not.  I want to review them and give my opinion… so I am.

Synopsis: Dr. Edgar Collins has his hands full with attempting to rehabilitate Matthew, and it’s no wonder with IT interfering.

Review: I was so impressed with this story.  I did not see the end coming and was pleasantly surprised.  Eaton Thomas Palmer writes with true grit and grime.  I could see the walls of the facility, the doctors and rooms.  All of his characters were fully developed and the TWIST was totally fulfilling.  All in all, a great anchor story!  I look forward to seeing what else, Mr. Palmer delivers us in the future.

Eaton Thomas Palmer was born and raised in the Midwest, and entered the business world because it was the thing to do. It has never been satisfying to him. He has always been creative and finally realized that he is a storyteller. He began writing when he was fifty. Writing is a passion for him and he want to share his stories with people.

 

 

 

TWIST Reviews – One Story at a Time – Bloodlines by S.L. Dearing

Disclaimer: These reviews pertain to stories in the anthology – Paranormal Anthology with a TWIST.  I have a story in this book (Bloodlines – I won’t be reviewing my story ;), so many feel that I cannot objectively review other stories in the same book I am also featured in… that being said, to each their own, I know my own level of integrity.  Thus, people can choose to believe me or not.  I want to review them and give my opinion… so I am.

Synopsis: When two children witness the abduction of their mother by the Gestapo, they are whisked away to France, where in the safety of the forest, they discover who they really are…

Review: Nope!! This is my story, the one I won’t review… well, because it’s mine and I already know how I feel about it.  I love it, but I’m biased.  So instead, I have put an Excerpt below.  Hope you enjoy… and maybe want to know how it ends 😉

Bloodlines

“I didn’t ask you to find just any children, Lieutenant Henke! I want those children! Idiot!”

The SS officer bowed his head, clicking the heels of his black boots together.

“My apologies, General. I was led to believe these children would be taken to Birkenau at Doctor Mengele’s request… for the Twins project.”

The SS General looked at the young lieutenant with disdain. The fair-haired Aryan youth was rising in the ranks of the SS due only to his fanatical obsession with the Fuhrer and the influence of his father. The lines around General Heinrich Muller’s mouth deepened. Idiots…everywhere.

“It is not your concern why I want these children… just find them! These specific children! And when you do, you will come and tell me and I will retrieve them! Do you remember the names I gave you?”

“Yes, General! Sascha and Eduard Engel!”

“Good… then locate them immediately and return to me and me only. Now Go!”

The lieutenant nodded and raised his arm.

“Sieg Heil!”

Muller raised his arm and clicked his heels together.

“Sieg Heil!”

Lt. Fritz Henke lowered his arm and turned, promptly walking towards the giant, black oak doors. He opened them and exited, then spun around and closed them behind him.

Muller pushed his chair away from his desk and stood up. He walked over to the window and looked out at the dark streets of Berlin, watching the rain fall hard and fast on the unhappy passersby. The Master’s plan was almost complete. The Chosen were being eradicated from the planet and the sheep were following the puppet. The only thing left to do was to find the children. His face twisted into a grimace, his blood pumping furiously to his brain as he clenched his hand into a fist. He had been so close before, but that bitch wouldn’t tell him anything. They had somehow gotten the children to a new location. He began to sneer. He would find them… and when he did, no one would be able to save them.

The bright light of the moon shone through the little window above the bed of Sascha and Eduard Engel, illuminating the tiny room where they slept. Eduard breathed deeply, lost in the world of sleep as his sister lay quietly next to him. She stared at the sky through the glass, the tiny flakes of snow gently falling from heaven. She twirled an oval, bronze pendant in her fingers and smiled. She remembered her mother. Her mama had always told her that snow was God’s way of sending little pieces of heaven to his people on earth so they would remember Him. Sascha missed her. ~~~

Well, there you have a snippet of my story… unfortunately, if you want more (which I hope you do – Please…) you have to get the book. 🙂  If you’re interested in any of my other writings, they are below.  Nothing like a little shameless plug, right?  Thanks… one more TWIST review to go!!!

S. L. Dearing was raised in California and grew up in Arizona. Shannon attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, studying biology, then moved to Los Angeles where she spent several years studying at Los Angeles City College’s renowned Television/ Film program. She has worked on several film projects in many capacities, like First A.D. and Producer. She is a book reviewer for the Big Blend Magazine and has her own blog where she posts about life and books. Shannon has been writing since grade school, but over the years she has written several screenplays, poems and short stories. The Gathering is her first novel. Shannon currently lives in the No Ho Arts District of the San Fernando Valley of Southern California.

Follow Shannon Website: http://www.sldearing.com

Amazon Autor Page: http://www.amazon.com/S.-L.-Dearing/e/B00AWIC4JK

Heart You by Rene Folsom – Review

This story was deftly written. Author, Rene Folsom, pulls the reader in from the first sentence and like that anticipated kiss, leaves you breathless and wanting more. Her writing is effortless and leads you joyously into the melee that is Heart You. The clincher comes from a candy laced kiss and hurls you straight into the arms of pure pleasure. You will walk away looking to walk toward a “helping hand.” This short was definitely worth the read and definitely a bargain.

Rene Folsom delivers a tremendous story, filled with delicious tension and a fulfilling release. This is her first published work and I am looking forward to her future endeavors, whatever the genre.

This story is Erotica and contains F/F and F/M/F sexual situations. Adult Content.

One Door Closes…

The saying goes… One door closes and another one opens.  That door closing can pertain to a lot of different things.  Love, jobs, opportunities in general.

Well, I know that in my life that has happened quite a bit and when it does, you forget that the other door will open.  It’s hard to remember that.  When you depend so heavily on one thing, it can be difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel.  It’s scary.  It’s scary to be alone.  It’s scary to not have a paycheck.  It can feel like you’re wandering through a swamp.  Murky water and detritus everywhere you turn.  The giant trees obscuring any sunlight and at night, the dangers that live there become more prevalent.  It’s scary to wonder how you will ever get out of the hole you’re in, but you will.  The sun rises the next morning, breaking through a clearing in those mossy, great trees.  The grayness around you starts to burn off allowing the rays of the sun to warm your face and you can find a way to land and solid ground.  We all have to remember that hope will once again sprout before you like an orchid.  A beautiful flower growing in the darkest, dankest place.

Hope is that orchid.  A beautiful bright flower.  Most people think that they are delicate, but in reality they are a hardy flower that never really dies, but only goes dormant.  You just have to wait for the bloom to come back.  Sometimes it takes a few months, but it will return.  Hold on to knowledge that the bloom will return, just like good fortune.  When we lose something or someone that is extremely important to us, it can feel like we will never have that joy ever again, but it comes back and most of the time it’s better than before.  Don’t let the bad things that happen make you lose faith, because when our days are the darkest, it will be faith that gets us through.  Faith in family, friends and the knowledge that a small flower will bloom in darkness.

We need to remember that in the midst of despair, when that door closes in our face, that we have to start looking around.  The reason is because the door doesn’t always open itself.  Sometimes we have to open it.  One of those other doors is unlocked and waiting to be opened…. and on the other side is a meadow full of flowers and sunshine.  It’s full of hope and promise.  So don’t forget to check every door… an new adventure is waiting for you on the other side.

Predators or Prey? by Scott Harper (Book Review)

The first book in the Wendy Markland series – Predators or Prey?… WOW, I loved this book!  What a ride!  The main character is Wendy Markland, a young woman who runs a vampire hunter grift with her boyfriend, Jacob, while raising her little brother, Glen, merely nine years old.  The story takes an ugly turn when Wendy and Jacob discover that vampires are real, now they are being hunted.

Scott Harper deftly handles the raw emotion of each situation, taking the reader on a journey of terror and self-discovery.  Wendy is a wonderful hero, flawed, yet likeable and human.  The villains of this book run the gambit from seething, quiet evil to violent bully; and even our anti-hero is beautifully drawn back and forth from like to dislike.   Mr. Harper is a truly talented writer who sets up each scene beautifully, the sights and smells are vivid, without being over drawn.

I read this book in one day and I’m excited to start reading the next installment, Necromancer.  It is my understanding that these novels are being converted into graphic novels and I cannot wait to see them.  This story lends itself beautifully to episodic art; the horror genre always having been my favorite in this particular world.  If you have not yet read this book, you are missing out.

The world of Wendy Markland is a world we should all experience.

My Hero… my dad…

Ten days ago I walked into my dad’s house.  He was in his chair, napping as he does, but something told me he wasn’t just asleep.  I called out to him and said “Hey, Daddy, wake up, I’m here.”  But he didn’t move, so I called again, but nothing.  Then I  touched his cold hand and the back of his neck, tears running down my face as I yelled for him to wake up, but he didn’t.  I sat down next to him and sobbed, my hands shaking until I had the presence of mind to call for help.   The rest of the day was surreal and it didn’t help that it took hours for them to come and get him, because he looked like he was asleep.  I kept looking over at him and waiting for him to wake up, with that groggy look on his face, and then smile at me for catching him napping… but that never happened. He was gone.

 

Over the last ten hazy, sad, tear and laughter filled days, I’ve been remembering my life.  My daddy was my best friend, the first person I went to when I needed help and advice.  I talked to him almost everyday.  As the days go on, I realize that I haven’t talked to him since that last Thursday.  Joking and laughing about nothing in particular.  That’s the hardest part.  I can’t hear his voice, or hug him goodnight, or hear his laughter.  It hurts when I think about what I’ve lost.

When I was twelve-years-old, I was going to bed and my dad started to cry and he said “When we go to sleep, I really need to hear ‘I love you’, it’s really important.”  From that night on, I never ended a conversation or went to sleep without telling him that I loved him.  I was blessed to have him for eleven years longer than I should have, after strokes and congestive heart failure and I was blessed to be able to care for him last year, when he needed me most.  That was one of the best and scariest times of my life and I treasure it.

I’m not sad that he has gone on to be free of the body that had stopped letting him live the amazing life he had lived, or that he’s off on the next great adventure.  I’m sad for me.  Mourning isn’t about them being gone, it’s about us being left behind.  It’s not like I’m ready to go yet, but I’m still sad for me and for the children I have yet to mother, who will only know him through my stories like I knew his mother.

A day doesn’t go by that I can’t hear his words in my head about whatever is affecting me, always good advice, always with love.  I remember going bear hunting in the back yard at night (which never happened, because Pat would never go outside), Bigfoot hunting in the park (that time I wouldn’t go and Pat ran maniacally into the woods, totally unafraid), watching the Legend of Boggy Creek, learning to box (no, I do not hit like a girl, you better look out for my right cross), coaching my soccer team, my basketball team, having to stop taking me to my swim meets because I was more interested in seeing my daddy then diving first, hearing “Suck it up!” every time I got hurt (it made me stronger), learning about the magic of Monty Python, going to see Caddyshack and ET, being tickled till I couldn’t breathe, telling him he forgot to cook the meat when he gave a three-year-old Steak Tar Tar, then listing to him bitch as he made a burger out of $30 a lb gound steak, watching him dance with my mom when they still loved each other, going to USC football games and tailgating, watching Football at Highbury and drinking in Pubs, scaring the French kids at St. Paul’s (I actually scared them, dad just laughed), dancing with him at my wedding, sharing a love of SyFy channel movies, hanging in Vegas, going to breakfast at 2am… there are so many more and I think some I’ve forgotten that my brother and sister will remind me of in the years to come.

I have been so unbelievably lucky to have been the daughter of Michael Dearing and to have been his friend.  I hope you are happy and free, off exploring whatever the universe has in store for you next and know that wherever you are and whatever you do, not a minute goes by that you are not in my mind, my heart and my soul.  I love you, daddy… it’s been ten days.   I miss you.  I love you.  Always.