THE TRUTH ABOUT VAMPIRES Book Tour: Character Interview and Giveaway with Theresa Meyers

An Interview with Dimitri Dionotte

Today we’re joined by Pacific News Tribune reporter Kristen Reed who recently broke the story of vampires coming out of the coffin in Seattle. She’s kindly offered to share her interview with Dmitri Dionotte, Trejan of Seattle’s Cascade Clan of vampires so we can get an in-depth look at their culture from an insider.

Welcome!

K: Thanks for having us here at Book of Secrets. I’m Kristin Reed and I’ve got Dmitri Dionotte here with me today to offer us a little insight into what it means to be vampire in 2011.

D: *shifts in his chair but says nothing*

K: Mr. Dionotte, you’re Trejan of the Cascade Clan, can you tell us a little bit about your role and why it was so important for you to be part of the unveiling of vampires to mortals?

D: Please, call me Dmitri. As Trejan, I’m the second in command of our clan, rather like your country’s Vice President. My role is to protect and lead the clan at the behest of our Laird, Roman Peterov. As such it fell to me to be the contact point when it came time to reveal our presence. We didn’t want to scare mortals too badly. It can be quite a shock to realize you’ve been living with vampires all along and just never knew it.

K: Vampires have actually been around a lot longer than we realized. Why did you wait so long to come out of the coffin?

D: First of all we don’t sleep in coffins as I’m sure you’re now aware. *winks at Kristin* Second, it may seem like a long time ago to humanity, but vampires haven’t forgotten the burning times. It’s only been a few hundred years since our kind were hunted down like animals.

K: But people do strange things when they’re frightened.

D: Certainly.

K: And you vampires can be quite frightening.

D: *give Kristin a wicked slow grin* Are you frightened now?

K: *rolls her eyes* Can we focus on the interview, Dmitri?

D: Certainly. I believe you were saying people act out of character when frightened. That’s true. But it’s the misinformation circulated about us by the media and entertainment industries that’s most damaging. Most vampires are very civilized. We see ourselves as symbiotic partners with mortals, not predators.

K: Misinformation? Could you clarify for us?

D: Garlic, stakes, holy water are all fabrications. We’re human just as you mortals, just modified by the virus that’s changed our genetic coding.

K: But you’re undead.

D: Precisely. Vampire straddles between life and death. It is neither, and yet of both, but is still something wholly its own.

K: So if all those things are fake, what’s real about you?

D: We’re ageless from the time we are fully transitioned. We can be hurt, killed even, if we are beheaded or burned. Silver is disruptive to our nervous system, and can weaken us. Dead Man’s Blood is a fast-acting poison that can incapacitate us for long periods of time. All our senses are sharper than yours and we have more strength. Because of that we don’t linger in the sunlight, it can produce a horrible migraine headache and in some cases severe sun-burn. We also don’t like exceeding strong scents. Bleach is one of my least favorite.

K: And what about reading minds and glamours? You guys are the ultimate predators, aren’t you?

D: Again, I’d like to clarify that we aren’t predators. Yes, it’s true that vampires can talk to one another via mental telepathy. We can also infiltrate the human mind of less strong-willed individuals and bend it to our desires, which is what you call a glamour. We also change to suit the most intimate fantasies of the mortal we’re with, whatever they may be. It allows us an edge against mortals. By all counts if you’re engaged in a relationship with a vampire it should be a mutually beneficial, and very enjoyable experience. If it’s not, then you’re with the wrong vampire.

K: Now I know you never intended to become a vampire. Can you tell me a little about that?

D: Before I became one, I hunted them for the church. I was on a hunt one night, leading my flock as their priest, when I was captured and emprisoned by an ancient vampiress named Larissa. She changed many, but I think she especially enjoyed stripping the soul out of me. I vowed I would never change another. I hated what I had become, but could not deny that even among vampires there were those with needs for a leader, a person to protect and care for them. I grew into the role of Trejan over the centuries but the memories of my past still influence my decisions today.

K: How do the reviers, like Vane, play a role in your society?

D: They don’t. They exist outside of our well-ordered clan. We are vampires who eat to live. They are vampires who live to eat. It would be smart not to confuse the two.

K: Thanks. Um, next question. What’s been the toughest thing for you about being a vampire?

D:*looks Kristin deeply in the eyes* Watching my mortal lover almost die in my arms and having to turn her. I never meant to turn you without your consent, you know that don’t you?

K: *brushes at fall of blonde bangs over her eyes* OK, next question. What do vampires really want?

D: Simple. What do mortals really want? Remember we’re both still human. Nothing’s changed but some DNA sequencing.

K: But that changes everything.

D: You wanted the truth about vampires, didn’t you?

K: *nods head slowly, looking at him suspiciously*

D: *gives her a slow, sexy smile and leans forward brushing his finger down the inside of her wrist* Some things are better shown, than explained.

K: That’s all we have time for today. Thanks for joining us, Dmitri. Thanks to Book of Secrets for inviting us. *grabs Dmitri’s hand and makes a hasty exit*

About the Book:

Pulling back the veil on a world shrouded in darkness, Theresa Meyers' stunning debut reveals a sinfully handsome vampire whose secret is about to exposed...

All her life Seattle reporter Kristin Reed sought her breakout story. She never thought she'd find it in the crimson lair of a real life creature of the night. Kristin never believed vampires existed—until with dark brooding eyes and a decadent chocolate scent, Dmitri Dionotte called out to her...

Dmitri and his clan's true nature was cloaked in secrecy until a warring vampire order threatened their existence. Kristin was just the woman he needed. She couldn't resist their story...or Dmitri. Her blood pulsed hot and furious when he touched her, and with his kiss, all logic fled. But each night she spent with her vampire lover brought her closer to death and destruction. A death not even an immortal could triumph over.

Release Date: March 1, 2011
Buy from Harlequin, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon.

About the Author:

Raised by a bibliophile who made the dining room into a library, Theresa has always been a lover of books and stories. First a writer for newspapers, then for national magazines, she started her first novel in high school, eventually enrolling in a Writer's Digest course and putting the book under the bed until she joined Romance Writers of America in 1993. In 2005 she was selected as one of eleven finalists for the American Title II contest, the American Idol of books. She is married to the first man she ever went on a real date with (to their high school prom), who she knew was hero material when he suffered through having to let her parents drive, and her brother sit between them in the backseat of the car. They currently live in a Victorian house on a mini farm in the Pacific Northwest with their two children, three cats, an old chestnut Arabian gelding, an energetic mini-Aussie shepherd puppy, several rabbits, a dozen chickens and an out-of-control herb garden. You can find her online on Twitter, Facebook, at her Web site or blogging with the other Lolitas of STEAMED!

http://www.theresameyers.com/

http://www.theresameyers.com/blog/

Giveaway Details (US Only):

{Sorry!  Photo lost after giveaway ended.}

Look at this sweet prize!  Theresa is giving away a signed paperback copy of The Truth About Vampires along with a coffee mug filled with chocolates.  Yum!  The contest is open to US addresses only.  To enter, leave a comment or question for Theresa, or answer this question:

We've discovered that vampires are real.  If you were a reporter interviewing a vampire for the first time, what would you ask him?

Please leave a way to contact you in your comment.  Of course, you are welcome to comment even if you're not entering the contest!  The contest is open until Sunday, 3/6/2011, at 11:59 pm Central Time.  Good luck!

Review: THE TRUTH ABOUT VAMPIRES

By Theresa Meyers

Blurb:

All her life, Seattle reporter Kristin Reed sought her breakout story. She never thought she'd find it in the crimson lair of a real-life creature of the night. Kristin never believed vampires existed—until with dark brooding eyes and a decadent chocolate scent, Dmitri Dionotte called out to her….

Dmitri and his clan's true nature was cloaked in secrecy until a warring vampire order threatened their existence. Kristin was just the woman he needed. She couldn't resist their story…or Dmitri. Her blood pulsed hot and furious when he touched her, and with his kiss, all logic fled. But each night she spent with her vampire lover brought her closer to death and destruction. A death not even an immortal could triumph over.

oOoOoOo

Theresa Meyers' latest release offers an interesting twist on vampires.  What if they were created by a virus?  This is one of many secrets that reporter Kristin Reed uncovers as she searches for her next big story.  Seattle has been plagued by a string of murders labeled the Bloodless Murders, because the victims are found drained of blood.  Clues lead her to a club where she discovers that vampires are real, and they have been living secretly amongst humans for centuries.  And the incredibly sexy club owner?  A vampire.  

Dmitri Dionotte is trejan for the Cascade Clan, the one responsible for their secrecy and security.  Dmitri knows the ones responsible for the murders are revier vampires - enemies of his clan.  Afraid that humans will see all vampires as evil if the truth behind the murders is discovered, Dmitri decides to use the Kristin as a way of revealing his clan's peaceful existence to the world.  He wants people to know that not all vampires see themselves at the top of the food chain.  Dmitri's plan puts Kristin in great danger as the reviers want to remain secret, and they will do anything to stop her.

The plot of The Truth About Vampires was complex.  Vampirism caused by a virus.  Vampire "ichor" used to heal injured and sick humans.  Ichor being sold on the black market.  A turf war between good and evil vampires.  And caught in the middle of it all was Kristin, a reporter just searching for an amazing story to prove she is equal to her male counterparts.  The author did a nice job tying all of that together for an exciting, fast-paced story.  There were a few "huh?" moments in the book where I just didn't understand why things happened, but overall this was a quick and enjoyable read.

What about the characters?  I liked Kristin.  She was smart and determined, but also insecure and desperate to prove herself as a journalist.  Dmitri was certainly a drool-worthy hero - flawed, tortured, irresistably sexy (smelled like chocolate!).  I was especially taken with his backstory of how he became a vampire.  There was strong erotic tension between Kristin and Dmitri.  I could definitely feel their lust, but love?  I'm not sure.  They went from strangers to bond mates a bit too quickly.  The one character I thought was lacking was the villain Vane.  I wish he would have been developed more.  I really didn't understand the motives behind his actions, or if he was really that evil (for a vampire).  The Truth About Vampries is the first book in Theresa Meyers' Sons of Midnight series.  I'm hoping to learn more about her world of vampires in future books.  I have my eye on a couple of secondary characters.  I would love to hear their story...

Review copy courtesy of the author.

 

Sexy Short Story Review: HIGHLAND VAMPIRE

By Suz deMello

Blurb:

On the run from her vindictive family, Natasha Desmond takes refuge at Kilburn Castle, reputed hunting grounds of a deadly vampire--and home to Garrett Kilburn, its sexy-as-sin owner. Though Garrett seems cold and remote at first, Natasha quickly learns that he's red hot in the bedroom. He seems to know all her secret desires and brings her ecstasy like she's never known before.  But at night, Natasha is visited by another mysterious lover. A lover who leaves two tiny wounds on her neck....

oOoOoOo

 "I had fled as fast and as far as I could.  I could run no farther than to the edge of the world, here at the northwestern corner of Scotland."  And that was the perfect place to go.  Natasha is running from her ruthless family, in particular the evil step brother who is hot on her trail.  Fate leads her into the arms (and bed) of Garrett, the sexy and mysterious owner of Kilburn Castle on the Scottish coast.  But Garrett is not the only one pleasuring Natasha.  The vampire haunting Kilburn Castle pays her nightly visits, leaving only small bite marks on her neck as evidence he was there.  If Garrett knew about the vampire, then why would he allow her to stay in the castle alone?

I devoured this sizzling hot short story very quickly.  What did I love about it?  A seductive modern-day Highlander with his own castle. *swoon*  Plenty of sex with just a hint of kink. *swoon, again*  A touch of suspense and mystery.  And, of course, a vampire!  A paranormal element is always a bonus for me.  There were parts of the story that seemed far-fetched regarding why Natasha was hiding from her family, but the erotic scenes and a surprising twist at the end made up for it.  If you're looking for a satisfying quickie, Highland Vampire will not disappoint.

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Guest Post with Paranormal Suspense Author Pauline Holyoak

Please welcome paranormal suspense author Pauline Holyoak to Book of Secrets today!  Her supernatural thriller Merryweather Lodge – Ancient Revenge is the first of a new trilogy.  I had the opportunity to review Pauline's book, and it was amazing!  Click HERE to check out my review.  I'll turn things over to Pauline:

About me…

I grew in Southeast England, in a coal mining village my husband calls, “The place that time forgot.” It is nested between the notorious city of Canterbury and the medieval town of Dover. I came to Canada (as a nanny) when I was 21, in search of adventure and a new life. I live in Spruce Grove, Alberta with my sports crazy husband, adorable sheltie dog and cantankerous ginger cat. We have two grown children. They are the gems in my treasure chest.

As far back as I can remember the pen and paper have been my faithful companions and story telling my forte. As a child I would sneak away from the mundane adult world, find a private retreat (usually behind the garden shed) and imagine. There in my own little sanctuary I'd conjure up all kinds of intriguing tales and colorful characters. In my teen years my journal became my confident, revealing all my hidden secrets, private fantasies and wild notions within its pages. Later I started to write poems, articles and short stories, and pondered the thought of becoming a writer.

When I immigrated to Canada I buried my dreams under layers of real life clutter. I chose a safe and practical career in child care, married and raised a family. But my creative spirit kept trying to dig its way out. I was asked to write articles and editorials for our local church. I taught a story time class at the school, which lead me to writing a children's book. I wrote an article about my husbands' prestigious grandfather and sent it to our local newspaper. They printed it. I kept sending them articles, they kept printing them. I was surprised at the compliments I received from the editor and readers. It was evident to me then that I had excavated my creative spirit.

I decided to take a comprehensive writing course to improve my technique. With help from a proficient and supportive tutor, who told me I had a gift, I began to cultivate my skill. My articles started to sell and I received an assignment from a major Canadian magazine. I have spent the past few years working on my novel Merryweather Lodge – Ancient Revenge (a trilogy) and two children's books. I have a diploma in creative writing, along with a certificate complementing my creative skills. I have a boundless imagination and a wealth of experience to draw from.

I love horror movies and being scared…Not the… “Hey I think I smell smoke” scared, but the creepy, spine-chilling, spooky stuff scared. When I was a young girl my friend and I would wander through the local cemetery just before dark, read the tombstones and make up stories about the people that were buried there. Good grief….I was weird.

I ran away from home when I was 17 years old, to join a band of hippies and live on the streets of London. I went to challenge the establishment, proclaim peace, escape from the hum-drum village life and find myself. I lived in la…la…land with the flower children for a year but I never did find myself. I have now. Thank God!

I write long hand in my purple room, at my antique desk, under a large picture window and then I type it into the cold inanimate piece of equipment I call my computer and edit as I go.

I write to explore my inner world. I write because some mystical magnet draws me to my desk. I write to escape the mundane world of people and things. I write because I need to write. To me it’s a sort of innate longing, to get my thoughts, wild fantasies, opinions and stories on paper. The words come to me from some magical realm.

What inspired me to write Merryweather Lodge:

Every summer, when I was a child, we would visit my aunt and uncle at their quaint little cottage on Salisbury Plain. It was called Scotland Lodge and was situated not far from the historical Stonehenge. My uncle worked as a farm hand for the local squire. My aunt tended the manor house. It was there as I roamed free, deep within the English countryside, that I experienced joy, enchantment and some very strange and frightening occurrences. It was like a fairytale kingdom with a sinister twist. The memories of my summers at Scotland Lodge stayed with me, as a sort of nagging unsolved mystery all my life. A few years ago I revisited my childhood wonderland (the old place still emanates a strange and eerie essence) and was lead by some mysterious force into concocting this story and writing this book. It is from my mystifying experiences at Scotland Lodge that this book has emerged.

When Emily Fletcher meets the gorgeous Jonathan McArthur she is infatuated and consumed with passion. Will he go with her to the dreaded wood-lot, to remove the bloody ancient curse, before it’s too late? In the first half of my story Emily is fourteen years old. In the second half she is forced to return to the cottage, at the age of twenty. My novel contains elements of horror, humor, fantasy, romance and sex. I have created a world into which my readers can escape and an atmosphere that will evoke their imagination, stir their emotions and engage their senses. This book was inspired by my own experiences in a remote little cottage near Stonehenge.

Excerpt:

"Let’s go somewhere private." She said, grabbing my arm. She guided me to the passage and plunked me down on the bottom step of the attic stairs. My back straightened. Panic rose within me as an icy shiver ran down my spine. It was as if I had been lead to an old cemetery, sat on a grave and left among the tomb stones.

“That was her room you know.” She said as she pointed up the stairs.

“Who’s?”

“Mary Eliss.”

I turned my head ever so slowly and drew eyes up to the portal at the top of the stairs. I shivered and quickly looked way. “I know it was.”

In a low voice she whispered. “Do you suppose she’s still up there?” Then she grinned mischievously.

I looked into her strange glassy eyes. “She was, the last time I was here and I have a feeling she hasn’t left.”

My advice for would-be authors…. Write something every day, even if it’s only a paragraph. Learn to live with rejections; don’t let them nag at you. Believe in yourself and your work. Never, ever give up on your dreams. Faith, patience, perseverance and bold determination are what all successful authors have in common.

I am now working on the second book of my trilogy… Merryweather Lodge – The Malevolent Spirit…

Merryweather Lodge – A quaint little cottage, steeped in history, shrouded in secrets, its aura a paradoxical essence of heaven and hell. Go into this book if you dare and experience my protagonist’s strange and eerie journey there…. Available at http://www.whiskeycreekpress.com/

Thank you for being with us today, Pauline! 

Review: MERRYWEATHER LODGE - ANCIENT REVENGE

By Pauline Holyoak

Blurb:

Emily couldn’t wait to visit her Aunt and Uncle in their quaint and mysterious little cottage near Stonehenge. But it doesn’t take her long to realize that her fairytale kingdom has a sinister twist. One night in her attic bedroom she is confronted by an evil entity that would taunt her for the rest of her stay and long after that. Who is this hideous creature and what does she want? When Emily meets the gorgeous Jonathan McArthur she is infatuated, consumed with lust and an odd familiarity, as if they had met before. Will he be coaxed by the peculiar old gypsy to enter the dreaded woodlot? Can the bloody ancient curse be removed before it’s too late? And will Emily ever get to feel his lips on hers? A chilling tale of love, passion, sorcery and sacrifice; laced with mystery and tied with humor. Inspired by the author’s own experiences in a remote little cottage near Stonehenge.

oOoOoOo

Pauline Holyoak has crafted a thrilling tale of vengeful ghosts, ancient magic, secrets, betrayal, and past lives. Just a warning...don't read this book while alone at night! There were a few spine tingling scenes that had me jumping at the slightest noise!

At 14, Emily travels from her home in Canada to the English countryside to visit her aunt and uncle on their farm called Merryweather Lodge.  Emily soon gains the attention of two ghosts - a mysterious young girl and a terrifying creature Emily is certain wants to kill her.  Could these spirits be connected to the string of murders in the area?  Only one person is willing to believe Emily's story - Jonathan, the teenage son of her aunt and uncle's neighbor.  Emily is certain she knows him, but how?  Determined to lay to rest the ghosts of the past once and for all, Emily returns to Merryweather Lodge five years later.  She is reunited with Jonathan, and together they uncover how their past lives are entwined with the restless spirits haunting them today.

Merryweather Lodge - Ancient Revenge, the first of a new trilogy, is a completely engrossing story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.  Pauline Holyoak described the places, events and characters so vividly, I could easily picture myself there.  When Emily felt the cold chill of a ghost nearby, I could too.  I would describe Emily and Jonathan's romance as flirtatious in this book.  Nothing hot and heavy yet, but it establishes the foundation for things to come.  With its suspenseful, fast paced plot and colorful characters, this book will appeal to a wide rage of readers, including fans of mystery & thrillers, suspense, and paranormal romance.  It's also a must for those interested in Celtic and Druid magic (like me!).  I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Interview and Giveaway (Intl) with Paranormal Romance Author Sara Reinke

Please welcome Sara Reinke to Book of Secrets today! 

Dark Passages is the latest book in your Brethren series. Please tell us about it.

Tristan Morin is a vampire on a mission: to not fall in love with Karen Pierce. To do so would prove that humans and Brethren were meant to be physically and emotionally bound to each other -- something he, as a full-blooded Brethren, refuses to believe. It would be so much easier if Karen wasn't beautiful. And if there wasn't something about her that draws him like a moth to a flame, damn near impossible to resist.

Karen has always felt an inexplicable attraction to Tristan. More than just the fact he's strikingly handsome, it's as if being with him is something natural, comfortable and right. But soon a brash choice on his part leaves her heartbroken and confused, and a sadistic new enemy will put their newfound love -- and their lives -- to the ultimate test

How does Dark Passages tie in with the previous books in the series?

Dark Passages takes place shortly after the ending of the preceding book, Dark Passion (Book 3), in which both Tristan and Karen were introduced. Readers get to catch up with some of their favorite characters, like Brandon Noble, in Dark Passages, as well as get to know others, like Michel Morin, a little better. I add in a new character, Tristan’s uncle Mason, who I think readers will really enjoy. And of course, the story’s villain, Jean Luc, is one of the Davenants, the rival clan to both the Nobles and Morins who have been around, causing trouble, since Dark Hunger (Book 2).

What makes the vampires you've created unique from other paranormal romances?

Part of the fun in creating and building the world of the Brethren has been reimagining a lot of the common stereotypes and tropes we associate with vampires. For example, I decided that the Brethren weren’t immortal or immune to injury. In my mind, their metabolisms are heightened, so much more accelerated than that of a human, that they’re able to live a long time—centuries, compared to our shorter spans—and can heal rapidly from just about any but the most catastrophic illness or injury. But they’re still mortal; still vulnerable. I wanted my vampires to be, to humans, as wolves are to dog—genetically similar in almost every way, and yet different in key aspects inherent to their nature.

How do you develop your plots and characters?  Do you use any set formula?

Not that I’m aware of. Usually I come up with the characters and ideas for future stories while in the midst of works in progress. Tristan is a terrific example. He was originally meant to be only a secondary character introduced in Dark Passion (Book 3). But I wound up really liking his personality as I wrote him, enough so that I thought he needed his own book, a storyline where readers could find out more about him—and so could I.

Besides writing, what are your other passions in life?

Definitely my family. In addition to writing, I work full-time and go to nursing school in the evenings, so spending time with my family is definitely one of my favorite indulgences. Sometimes there’s no better escape from the stress of everyday life than to just kick back on the couch with my kids beside me, a quilt around all of us, and my husband making us a gigantic bowl of popcorn to share.

Do you have any interesting writing quirks?

Other than the fact that I write just about anywhere? LOL. Seriously – I used to have a beautiful little home office dedicated solely to my creative writing. I had my desk, my computer, my inspiration posters—it was very much my sanctuary. Then I had kids, and life completely changed. No more office, no more dedicated time or place for writing. It’s very much catch-as-catch-can with me, whether it’s early in the morning before anyone else is awake or late at night after everyone’s asleep.

In closing, is there anything else you'd like to share with readers?

Readers can check out the promotional video for Dark Passages: Tristan & Karen at my website: http://www.sarareinke.com/. At the Flash version, you’ll also find an exclusive “About the Brethren” page that fills readers in on the series to date, and the different characters introduced so far.

Plus, for a limited time, readers can subscribe to my e-Newsletter and receive a FREE ebook copy of Dark Thirst, Book One in The Brethren Series. There’s no better way to be introduced to the world of the Brethren vampires than with the book that started it all!

About the Book:

Tristan Morin is a vampire on a mission: to not fall in love with Karen Pierce. To do so would prove that humans and Brethren were meant to be physically and emotionally bound to each other -- something he, as a full-blooded Brethren, refuses to believe. It would be so much easier if Karen wasn't beautiful. And if there wasn't something about her that draws him like a moth to a flame, damn near impossible to resist.

Karen has always felt an inexplicable attraction to Tristan. More than just the fact he's strikingly handsome, it's as if being with him is something natural, comfortable and right. But soon a brash choice on his part leaves her heartbroken and confused, and a sadistic new enemy will put their tentative love -- and their lives -- to the ultimate test.

Excerpt:

Tristan Morin shoved Karen Pierce back into the nearest wall and pressed his mouth against hers. The warmth of her lips, the sweetness of her tongue, saliva and breath—it was enough to strip the senses from him.

“Tell me to stop,” he whispered, because it was all he could do not to wrench her head back by the hair and sink his teeth into the hot, pulsating length of her carotid artery. His canines had extended, dropping from recessed grooves in his gum line. His pupils had enlarged, an ancient, primitive reflex that left them dilating wide enough to nearly swallow the visible portions of his irises and corneas. In this sudden, extremely light-sensitive field of vision, Karen’s pale skin seemed to glow, miniscule droplets of perspiration glistening against her face like diamonds.

“No.” She shook her head defiantly, her cheeks flushed, her blonde hair askew, her blue eyes glossy and round with eager anticipation.

He reached between them, ripping open her blouse with a single, forceful yank. Buttons popped loose, scattering against the floor. She wore no bra beneath; he drew back long enough to shrug his way out of his own shirt, then pushed himself into her, feeling the incredible heat of her body, the bullet points of her nipples against his chest.

“Tell me to stop,” he pleaded again, because if he didn’t, he was going to feed from her. And I can’t do that. God help me, I can’t.

Giveaway Details:

  

Sara is giving away signed paperback copies of Dark Thirst and Dark Hunger, as well as a download of Dark Passages to one person who leaves a comment on her book tour. Click HERE for Sara's tour schedule. The the more tour stops you comment on, the better your chances of winning!  International entries are welcome.  Please leave a way to contact you in your comment.  Good luck!

Review: HIS ELLE

By Jemima Valentino

Blurb:

A creature of beauty and intelligence is a rare breed, especially one who so wantonly offers the submission of her soul to another.

Through a chance meeting at an urgent care clinic, Elle and her Master soon fall unintentionally and desperately in love, embarking on a deeply intense BDSM relationship. Knowing they must soon part, Elle is pushed further than ever before. Through one final limitless display of submission, expertly guided by her Master, can Elle truly release her fears and give him all of her heart?

oOoOoOo

His Elle is the impressive debut novella of Jemima Valentino.  It is a glimpse at a few moments in the lives of Elle and her Master, who have a loving and passionate total power exchange relationship.  They meet at an urgent care clinic in Detroit where he is the doctor on call.  (We never learn his real name.)  Elle is an English writer who has come to America for work.  One night, she is the victim of an assault, and though unethical, he is immediately attracted to this fragile and beautiful creature.  He wants to heal this "broken angel" both physically and emotionally.  For Elle, that healing is through becoming his slave, giving over control and regaining her strength through trust.

The story jumps two years ahead to the point where Elle is ready to fully submit to her Master, and if she passes this final test of trust, she will be set free from the pain of her past.  The BDSM in this story is vivid and felt very real.  Elle's ultimate test of submission involved bondage, spanking, teasing, minor humiliation and knife play.  Elle's Master was rather strict, but I never doubted his intense love for her. 

His Elle is one of those stories that will haunt my thoughts for a longtime.  The characters were written with such depth that I was feeling their emotions too - passion, fear, joy, anger, heartbreak.  The ending was a bit of a shock, and it left me with much to think about.  I only wish the author would have given us more details about their life together prior to this night.

I am becoming more and more attracted to books with serious, intense BDSM relationships that are not always the romantic ideal.  I decided to give His Elle an extra half-point rating because it pushed all the right buttons for me - emotionally gripping story, complex characters, solid writing and of course, hot, hot sex!  I would highly recommend this book for those with an appreciation of the BDSM lifestyle, and for those looking for well written, emotionally charged erotica to push the limits of their comfort zone.  I am adding Jemima Valentino to my list of favorite new authors!  

Review copy courtesy of the author.

Review: CARESSA'S KNEES by Annabel Joseph

By Annabel Joseph

Blurb:

Working for megastar Jeremy Gray has taken an emotional toll on personal assistant Kyle Winchell. In the name of self-preservation, he re-locates to New York City to work at Ironclad Solutions, a service agency catering to the needs of the

rich and famous.

He accepts a job as personal assistant to well-respected concert cellist Caressa Gallo, only to find she's not as respectable as she seems. Soon he's involved in a world of lust and dark inspiration, and emotional stakes beyond anything he's encountered before.

oOoOoOo

Caressa's Knees is a poignant, beautifully written love story. Kyle is hired as the assistant to Caressa Gallo, a 20-year old cellist and musical genius. Kyle is a down-to-earth boy from Texas, organized, level-headed, and the exact opposite of Miss Gallo. Caressa is a former child prodigy who's life has always been the music. She suffers from incredible guilt over a past experience she had no control over. She has a crippling fear of failure. For Caressa this results in instability, loneliness and refusing to act like the adult she had become. Despite not wanting to admit it, Caressa needs Kyle to ground her in reality.

I enjoyed Caressa's character even with her flaws. Sure, at times she was an emotional wreck, but deep down she was strong to have survived such an exceptional childhood. I could feel her pain and anguish, her overwhelming passion for her music, and the relief she felt when she let Kyle into her guarded world. Now, Kyle wasn't perfect. He was burdened with problems from his past too. He did a few things that had me shaking my head. However, a few imperfections make a hero more compelling, which was certainly the case with Kyle.

The BDSM in this story is rather sensual, and it came very naturally between Kyle and Caressa. I thought that their D/s relationship was amazing. Passionate, personal, and very erotic. It was an intimate experience between them without the larger BDSM scene. Caressa needed Kyle's control, and he willingly gave it to her.

I love Annabel Joseph's writing style. She really knows how to pull a reader into a story with her descriptive language. The scenes of Caressa playing the cello, or her and Kyle's magical experience beside a Texas pond gave me chills. The epilogue had me choked up too, sad the book was ending, yet thrilled at the outcome of their story.

Wendi Zwaduk: Guest Post and Giveaway!! Have you ever seen a ghost?

Did You See That?

I’m so happy to be here at Book of Secrets. Thanks for having me. Now, about that title...

My book, Careless Whisper, is about a woman and a man who can see ghosts. Have you ever seen a ghost? I have. I think.

I love those shows on television where they see mists and shadow figures. They hear voices. Now, most people, if they find out you hear voices, well, they look at you a little funny. Doesn’t really bother me. Do I hear the things the people on television claim to hear? Sometimes. Sometimes not.

Doesn’t mean I don’t love to watch them.

And really, that’s where I got the idea for the book. Well, no, Ryan’s sitting next to me pointing to the screen and saying, “No, no, no”. He’s right, but don’t let him say that. I had him whispering in my ear for more than a year, begging me to tell his story. But I wasn’t sure what the heck to do with him. So I happened to be listening to the television and writing, since I have to have noise when I write, and he shouted, “Hey! That’s what I do!”

After I got my heart rate back into the normal range, I paid a bit closer attention to the screen. One of those ghost hunting type shows. Cool. But I thought he was a vampire. The concept of a ghost explorer was the farthest thing from my mind. Good thing Ryan wasn’t about to let the topic drop.

“But that’s me. That’s why I’m out all night. I hunt the ghosts and talk to them.”

Wasn’t that a game changer? But actually, I looked at it as a new challenge. Until that point, I’d never written about a ghost. Vampires, yes, ghosts...not yet. So I asked him, what exactly is a Ghost Explorer?

“Let’s watch the television.”

Brat. Yes, Ryan Black is a brat. So, instead of just watching the shows, I found people who had actually gone ghost hunting. Where, you might ask? The Mansfield Reformatory in Mansfield Ohio. They actually have video of mists and black blobs. Yeah, I was completely dumbfounded. It was great! All these things Ryan was telling me were possible was in the video. I even heard things. But trust me...they aren’t PG.

It’s kind of weird to be in a situation where what you write about could be real and it’s something paranormal. I was one of those people who said, that’s not real. They faked it. Boy, was I wrong. I mean, the option is out there.

About the Book:

He’s her kinkiest desire, if she’s willing to open her heart and believe in him.

The dead don’t always rest in peace. Some stick around to make the lives of the living hell on Earth. Ryan Black knows the frustration of dealing with the dead. He’s a Ghost Explorer. He’s conquered houses filled with apparitions, abandoned school buildings that house angry vermin, and managed to woo the female population of Snake Falls, Ohio. But he’s about to face his toughest challenge, convincing sceptical Samara Jacobs she not only shares his gift, but holds his heart.

Women fall at Ryan Black’s feet and Samara’s determined not to be one of the many—that is until she’s forced to work with him. He’s certain ghosts exist and willing to prove it. The more she gets to know the man behind the television persona, she decides the handsome klutz who chases things that go bump in the night isn’t so silly after all. But is he worthy of her love? 

Excerpt:

“Hauntings? Aberrant actions? What you do has nothing to do with demons or spirits—unless you mean the spirit of getting into women’s pants.”

Ryan turned to see Samara standing next to him, her arms folded. Had she listened in on the entirety of his ridiculous diatribe? “I don’t cross dress.” Sitting on the edge of the table, he took in the sight of her. A strange rhythm pounded behind his ribs and his cock pulsed beneath his zipper.

“Har.” She rolled her blue eyes, the type that could snare a man at twenty paces. “No, you bed the women whose houses you clear of spirits. I’ve seen your show and I hear the gossip. Criminey, you should be checked for STD’s.”

“Gossip and innuendo.” Hell, up close she demanded his attention without saying a word to grab it. “And FYI, I’m clean.”

Damn, if she didn’t turn him on with her sass. He wanted to be irritated and she verbally smacked him between the eyes. A tiny part of him wanted to walk away from her and never see her again for the sake of the memory of Felicity. Shit. The more his gaze roved over Samara Jacobs, the more he wanted to take a trip all over her body, learning what made her laugh, sigh, and whimper in delight. She, unlike the female population of Snake Falls, Ohio, didn’t buy into his line of work. The simple fact that she gave him a run for his money enticed him.

Just as she turned on her heel to leave, he touched her arm, amazed by the silky smooth texture of her skin. “Wait, you watched my show?”

“Yes, I saw the show. I prepare the transcripts, remember?” She glanced away, only to stare at him again. “If it’s truly pretend, then you’re golden—only a fiction writer can make up some of the stuff that happens to you. Then again, I don’t buy into ghosts anyway. As far as I’m concerned, it’s all bunk.”

“How so?” His mouth watered for a taste of her. Anything to keep her talking so he could be around her more.

“Because, you go to places infested with rats, raccoons, and other vermin. Critters make noise and scatter when the light hits them. And the static from your camera isn’t a voice, so don’t try to convince me otherwise.”

“I’m hurt.” Interested, perplexed, drawn, turned-on - very turned on.

About the Author: 

I always dreamed of writing the stories in my head. Tall, dark, and handsome heroes are my favorites, as long as he has an independent woman keeping him in line. I tend to write books with titles taken from songs because music is one of my many muses.

I earned a BA in education at Kent State university and as well as a Masters in Education from Nova Southeastern University. I've tried my hand at teaching, waitressing, and retail sales, but writing holds my heart.

I love NASCAR, romance, books in general, Ohio farmland, dirt racing, and my menagerie of animals. I have six books under contract and more than my brain can handle percolating. I can't wait to share them with you!

Giveaway Details:

Wendi is giving away a digital copy of Careless Whisper to one person who leaves a comment on her book tour.  Click HERE for Wendi's tour schedule.  The the more tour stops you comment on, the better your chances of winning!

To enter, please leave a question or comment for Wendi, or answer this question:  Have you ever seen a ghost?

Review: AN UNEXPECTED EVENING

By Roxanne Rhoads

Samuel is a centuries-old vampire who prefers to be a recluse. He is always afraid of losing control and becoming the monster he once was. Falling in love with a young witch has pushed his boundaries and pulled him out of his comfort zone.

Katerina always encourages Samuel to be more open, to let loose, and to really "live" instead of only existing in the shadows.  One night, he finally grants her wish . . . in ways she never imagined.

An Unexpected Evening is a tantalizing short story about a night of passion between the vampire Samuel and his beloved witch Katerina.  The two have been together for some time, but Samuel has held back his true aggressive, dominant nature in fear of hurting Katerina.  She finally persuades him to let go and be himself.  The result is an unexpected evening of wickedly hot kinky sex.

Yet there is more going on in this tale than just the physical passion.   We discover that Samuel is struggling to come to terms with his violent past; Katerina is descended from a family of witches, yet she is late in realizing her powers; and there is a killer terrorizing the streets of the city, and because of his frequent "blackouts," Samuel is afraid he may be involved.

Because this was a brief 13-page story, An Unexpected Evening felt like a precursor of things to come.  We are introduced to two intriguing characters who obviously have more going on than what we see on the surface.  This story establishes the steamy chemistry and the newfound trust between Samuel and Katerina.  We are now left to wonder where the author will take the suspense element of the story in the future.  I received this story for free from the author as part of her book tour.

Favorite Quote: "A relationship full of sweetness, wine, and roses could get dull after awhile, without the occasional scratch from a thorn.  I loved thorns.  And I loved Samuel."

Waiting On Wednesday: BLOOD LAW

By Karen Tabke

Blood Law

Blood Moon Trilogy, Book 1

Release Date: May 3, 2011

For all eternity, only one thing shall separate them—until the Blood Law is avenged…

The coming of the Blood Moon will lead two Lycan packs into war, spur two rival brothers into conflict, and spark an act of vengeance so evil that its effects will be felt for generations.  One woman stands at the center of it all…

As undisputed Alpha, Rafael must choose a life mate to preserve the dominance of his Lycan pack. He never suspected, his mate would be a human, the same wounded, girl-woman he seduces from the brink of death. Falon is a dangerous combination of Lycan and Slayer—beings bred to destroy his kind. Even more, she’s a mesmerizing beauty whose sensuality tempts the seasoned warrior to take unnecessary risks. The primal heat between them is irresistible, yet surrendering to it could destroy them both…for a vengeful foe stands ready in the shadows to fulfill what is rightfully his by Blood Law.

Hosted By: Breaking the Spine

Claiming the Evil Dead Book Tour: Guest Post with Mary Abshire

Welcome to this stop on Mary Abshire's Claiming the Evil Dead Book Tour!  I had the opportunity to review Mary's book, and I loved it!  Fans of both Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance are sure to enjoy it.  To check out my review, click HERE.  Mary is talking with us today about chosing the right careers for her characters:

Hello Everyone! I hope you are having a wonderful 2011.

Do you ever wonder where writers come up with careers for their characters? Today, I'm going to talk about my character's careers and how I came up with them. Unusual, I know, but what the hell.

In my book, Claiming the Evil Dead, the main character is a half demon soul catcher. She's a computer technician and part time paranormal investigator. How did I come up with her career? This was simple for me. I worked with data analysts and a paranormal investigator. My main character wants to fit into the normal world, yet she needs an outlet to be able to catch evil souls. Career selections made.

For my second main character, the luscious vampire, I wanted him to be a noble man with a caring heart. I created a world where some vamps are bad, some are good, and my vamp fights for good, human and non-human. I created an organization—the VETOV a/k/a Vampires for the Ethical Treatment of Other Vampires. Yeah, it sounds a bit silly, but it works. My lead vamp is an investigator for the organization. Not sure how I came up with it all—I just did.

As for the demon who causes problems for my main characters, I made him an NHL hockey player. How did I come up with it? I'm a hockey fan and I thought—what a perfect career for a hot-blooded demon. And since my character is a bit in your face, dominating and blunt, his talent in hockey is instigating fights.

One of the other important characters in the story is a lawyer. Over the course of my career, I have worked with many lawyers. I had to have a character as a lawyer. That was an easy choice.

My method was simple enough for selecting careers. I took from my experiences and what I like/watch. I wonder how many other authors do the same thing? Is it just me, or is anyone else curious?

About the Author:

Mary is a part-time Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy author living in Indianapolis with her loving husband, witty daughter, and ridiculous cat. The paranormal world has always been an interest of her's. She grew up watching Sci-Fi and Horror shows. As a teenager--many, many years ago--she read Anne Rice and wrote to pen-pals (stamps were cheap and computers weren't in every household). Though she dropped the pen for a while, her love for the paranormal continued. She started writing full length novels a few years ago and hasn't stopped. Not only does she love stories about vampires, she enjoys books with demons, werewolves, shapeshifters, dragons, and just about any supernatural creature.

Mary is a PRO member of the Romance Writers Association and Fantasy, Futuristic, and Paranormal Chapter.

Learn more about Mary at these sites:

http://www.maryabshire.com/
www.facebook.com/mary.abshire
www.goodreads.com/maryabshire
www.shelfari.com/maryabshire

About the Book:

Half-demon Jessie Garrett is searching for an evil vampire that's been preying upon children. She wants to claim the rogue vamp's soul and send it to hell. To find the dead man walking she must partner with another bloodsucker, Drake, even though she doesn't trust him. While Jessie works with Drake, she learns not all vampires are killers and discovers the cold-blooded vamp is a temptation too difficult to resist.

After the fiend abducts another child and Jessie has a near fatal experience with vampires, she turns to Jeremy, a demon she bumped into at a club, and makes a deal with him for his help. Drake disapproves, and Jessie soon finds herself wedged between two volatile creatures. When the chance comes to save the child's life and claim the evil vamp's soul, she must decide whom she can trust—a vampire who cools her feverish desires, or a demon hell-bent on seducing her.

Claiming the Evil Dead can be purchased at Amazon, Noble Romance, and All Romance eBooks.

Tour Giveaway:

Mary's Tour Schedule: http://bewitchingbooktours.blogspot.com/2011/01/virtual-tour-schedule-for-claiming-evil.html

Roxanne Rhoads at Bewitching Book Tours has put together a prize pack for the Claiming the Evil Dead Book Tour.  One winner will be chosen from all the comments at all the blogs participating in Mary's tour.  The giveaway is US shipping addresses only.

In the prize pack:

Bewitching Book Tours pen, Bewitching Book Tours Sticky Notes, Bewitching Book Tours key chain, , Fang-tastic Books bumper sticker, Fang-tastic Books magnetic 2011 calendar, Fang-tastic Books magnet, Fang-tastic Books sticker bookplates and various other swag.

If you would like to enter the contest, please "Like" Bewitching Book Tours on Facebook, and leave your e-mail address in a comment.

Of course, your comments for Mary are welcome even if you're not entering the contest!  Thank you for stopping by today!

CLAIMING THE EVIL DEAD by Mary Abshire

Blurb:

Half-demon Jessie Garrett is searching for an evil vampire that's been preying upon children. She wants to claim the rogue vamp's soul and send it to hell. To find the dead man walking she must partner with another bloodsucker, Drake, even though she doesn't trust him. While Jessie works with Drake, she learns not all vampires are killers and discovers the cold-blooded vamp is a temptation too difficult to resist.

After the fiend abducts another child and Jessie has a near fatal experience with vampires, she turns to Jeremy, a demon she bumped into at a club, and makes a deal with him for his help. Drake disapproves, and Jessie soon finds herself wedged between two volatile creatures. When the chance comes to save the child's life and claim the evil vamp's soul, she must decide whom she can trust—a vampire who cools her feverish desires, or a demon hell-bent on seducing her.

oOoOoOo

Claiming the Evil Dead is a sizzling hot, action packed urban fantasy romance.  The story is told from the first person point of view of Jessie, a half-demon paranormal investigator.  Jessie is a kick ass heroine with an amazing ability.  She ingests the souls of the evil dead by sucking their ghostly forms into her mouth and sends them to hell.

The vampire Drake is in desperate need of Jessie's special gift.  Drake is challenged with finding and exterminating the vile vamp Alexander, who has been preying on children for the past century.  Drake wants Jessie to dispose of Alexander's wicked spirit.  Locating Alexander proves to be far more complicated than expected, so Jessie enlists the help of a full-blooded demon name Jeremy against Drake's wishes.  Demons and vampires don't mix, but they agree to work together nonetheless.  The three of them are soon racing against time to rescue Alexander's lasted young victim before it's too late...

My favorite part of the book was Jessie.  She was an amazing heroine.  Strong, confident, smart, yet troubled by her past.  She saw evil and kicked its ass.  I was fascinated by her "soul swallowing" ability.  The path to hell was through her stomach, which I thought was very clever.  Jessie was also conflicted over her demon-half.  Was she doomed to hell simply for being half-demon, or would she be judged by her own actions instead?

Claiming the Evil Dead captivates from beginning to end with strong world building, a fast paced, suspenseful plot, and sexy, intriguing characters.  The great chemistry between Jessie and Drake (plus some very steamy vamp on demon love) will not disappoint.  For romance lovers there is a satisfying happy ending while setting up book two in the Soul Catcher series.  I can't wait to see what comes next for Jessie.  I received a copy of this book free of charge from the author as part of her book tour.