Crackle and Fire (R&R Book Tours Blitz Post)

Check out the upcoming release from Russ Colchamiro! Crackle and Fire is the first installment of a brand new genre-blurring series!

Crackle and Fire: An Angela Hardwicke Sci-Fi Mystery (Book One) Expected Publication Date: September 1st, 2020 Genre: Sci-Fi Mystery/ Fantasy Angela Hardwicke isn’t just any private eye. She’s a PI from Eternity, the cosmic realm responsible for the design, creation, and maintenance of the Universe. When accountant Gil Haberseau hires her to find an intern with stolen corporate files, Hardwicke soon finds herself embroiled in a deadly case of lies, intrigue, and murder, clashing with vengeful gangsters, MinderNot rallies, and a madman who’s come a long way to get what he wants. In Russ Colchamiro’s thrilling Sci-Fi mystery Crackle and Fire, Angela Hardwicke learns once and for all that when it comes to being an intergalactic private eye, there’s no telling what threats she may face on-realm and off… including the demons that lurk deep within her soul. “Crackle and Fire elegantly combines PI noir with science fiction and fantasy.” — John L. French, author of The Magic of Simon Tombs “Angela Hardwicke is one of the most memorable characters in detective fiction.” — Sawney Hatton, author of Everyone is a Moon BONUS STORY INCLUDED! The AI-themed Angela Hardwicke murder mystery, “The Case of Jarlo’s Buried Treasure” Add to Goodreads Pre-Order Now! About the Author Russ Colchamiro is the author of the rollicking space adventure, Crossline, the zany SF/F backpacking comedy series Finders Keepers: The Definitive Edition, Genius de Milo, and Astropalooza, and is editor of the SF anthology Love, Murder & Mayhem, all with Crazy 8 Press. Russ lives in New Jersey with his wife, two ninjas, and crazy dog Simon, who may in fact be an alien himself. Russ has also contributed to several other anthologies, including Tales of the Crimson Keep, Pangaea, Altered States of the Union, Camelot 13, TV Gods 2, They Keep Killing Glenn, Thrilling Adventure Yarns, Camelot 13, and Brave New Girls. He is now working on the first novel in a new series featuring his hardboiled private eye Angela Hardwicke, and the first of three collaborative novella projects.

Russ Colchamiro| Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Giveaway: For a chance to win a digital copy of Crackle and Fire AND a $5 Amazon gift card, click the link below! a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blog Tour Schedule

August 24^th

Horror Tree (Guest Post) https://www.horrortree.com

Breakeven Books (Spotlight) https://breakevenbooks.com

Didi Oviatt (Spotlight) https://didioviatt.wordpress.com

The Faerie Review (Review) http://www.thefaeriereview.com

August 25^th

Tsarina Press (Spotlight) https://www.tsarinapress.com

Rajiv’s Reviews (Review) https://www.rajivsreviews.com/

Rambling Mads (Review) http://ramblingmads.com

August 26^th

The Magic of Wor(l)ds (Spotlight) http://themagicofworlds.wordpress.com

Jessica Belmont (Review) https://jessicabelmont.wordpress.com/

Meli’s Book Reviews (Review) https://melisbokreviews.wordpress.com/

August 27^th

Book Dragons Not Worms (Spotlight) https://bookdragonsnotworms.blogspot.com/?m=1

I’m into Books (Spotlight) https://imintobooks.com

PoptheButterfly Reads (Spotlight) https://popthebutterfly.wordpress.com

August 28^th

Mind of Luxe (Review) http://mindofluxe.wordpress.com

Tranquil Dreams (Review) https://klling.wordpress.com/

Reads & Reels (Spotlight) http://readsandreels.com

Blog Tour Organized By: R&R Book Tours

Dead After Midnight (R&R Book Tours Blitz Post)

Welcome to the blog tour for Dead After Midnight, a A Kelsey Woods Thriller! Dead After Midnight (A Kelsey Woods Thriller Book 1) Publication Date: May 16th, 2020 Genre: Thriller Suzie Q is a prostitute and determined to get out of her current line of work and excited for a fresh start with best friend Lucy by her side. Her dreams come to an abrupt halt, when, during a night of turning tricks, she stumbles upon Lucy’s brutally murdered body. Fearing for her life, Suzie runs to her neighbor, Luke’s, to regroup, where she discovers he’s not just a creepy client, but an undercover FBI agent. He blindsides her when he reveals that she’s mixed up in an FBI investigation, and that she’s been unknowingly working for Johnny Stone, New York’s notorious crime boss. Suzie flees from New York, hiding in a quaint seaside town in Maine. She changes her identity and her life. Now she has to survive, to keep the life she has come to love. This is the first novel in the Kelsey Woods thriller series. Add to Goodreads

Excerpt

I unlocked the door and climbed the stairs to the top floor, which opened up right by my room. I quietly unlocked my door and went right over to the large picture window and looked out. Nothing. No boogeyman hiding in the bushes and casing the joint. I shut the curtains and turned to switch on the light, stopping mid stride. “Don’t be foolish and scream, Suzie. The cops would be called and I am pretty sure you don’t want to involve them.” There he was, larger than life and stretched out on my bed as if he owned the place. I wasn’t surprised to see him. I couldn’t see his face, but of course I recognized the voice; I had heard it many times in my old life—a very deep, distinctive voice. “How did you find me, Luke?” “Just have to ask the right people the right questions over and over again. It’s good to see you. I’ve been in town a few days now, watching you. I have to say, you’ve impressed me with all the positive changes in your life. New line of work, new home, and even a new name—it suits you. I mean that. I’m very happy that you’ve left the old life behind you. Lucy would be very proud.” “Are you here to take me back? Am I being arrested?”

Available on Amazon About the Author

CP’s reading tastes are an eclectic mix of thriller, crime, romance, and the occasional fantasy novel. But, when she puts pen to paper, she can’t resist the intrigue of a thriller.

CP has written two novels in The Kelsey Woods series, Dead After Midnight (debut novel, released in May 2020) and Dead Before Sunrise – which is scheduled for release in the fall of 2020.

A true east coaster from beautiful Nova Scotia, Canada, CP is happily married to her high school sweetheart. She’s been blessed with a wonderful family, including six adorable grandchildren.

CP loves hearing from readers, connect with her via email or Twitter.

C.P. Daly Giveaway: Win one of three print copied of Dead After Midnight! *North America Only a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blog Tour Schedule

August 24^th

Reads & Reels (Spotlight) http://readsandreels.com

PoptheButterfly Reads (Spotlight) https://popthebutterfly.wordpress.com

Eclectic Review (Review) https://eclecticreview.com/

Purple Shelf Club (Review) https://www.purpleshelfclub.com/

August 25^th

I’m into Books (Spotlight) https://imintobooks.com

Horror Tree (Guest Post) https://www.horrortree.com

B is for Book Review (Spotlight) https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com

Didi Oviatt (Spotlight) https://didioviatt.wordpress.com

Inked and Blonde (Review) https://inkedandblonde.blogspot.com/

August 26^th

Book Dragons Not Worms (Spotlight) https://bookdragonsnotworms.blogspot.com/?m=1

Ally’s Reading Corner (Review) http://allysreadingcorner.wordpress.com

Stine Writing (Review) https://christinebialczak.com/

Rambling Mads (Review) http://ramblingmads.com

August 27^th

The Magic of Wor(l)ds (Spotlight) http://themagicofworlds.wordpress.com

Tsarina Press (Spotlight) https://www.tsarinapress.com

Meli’s Book Reviews (Review) https://melisbokreviews.wordpress.com/

Rajiv’s Reviews (Review) https://www.rajivsreviews.com/

August 28^th

Breakeven Books (Spotlight) https://breakevenbooks.com

Dash Fan Book Reviews (Review) https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/

Jessica Belmont (Review) https://jessicabelmont.wordpress.com/

Reviews by Satabdi (Review) http://satabdimukherjee.wordpress.com

Blog Tour Organized By: R&R Book Tours

Author Interview with Sara Lövestam

Alright y'all, I got connected with this lovely Swedish author when Minotaur Books sent an ARC of her book, The Truth Behind the Lie. When I fell in love with the book, I reached out to her on Instagram. She is a published author, but that didn't change the fact that she was super nice. I was still surprised when she agreed to do an interview, but I will probably never get over that if I'm honest. So let's dive in shall we?

Q: What is your name and where do you live?

A: My name is Sara Lövestam and I live in Stockholm, Sweden.

Q: Are you an Indie Author or do you work with a publishing company? 

A: I work with a publishing company in Sweden and several others around the world, through my agency.

Q: If you do work with a publishing company, which one and for how long?

A: My main Swedish publisher is Piratförlaget and has been for the past 10 years. I have also published books for other publishers, but Piratförlaget is the main one. My international agency is Pontas Agency, located in Barcelona. (Like I said I received her book from Minotaur Books, but I did not know that it was thanks to an agency.)

Q: What genre(s) do you write?

A: What genre do I not write! I write novels for adults, Y/A and children’s books. I write demi-historical novels such as Wonderful Feels Like This and suspense like the Kouplan series. In Sweden I am also known for writing humorous grammar books, but those can’t be translated for obvious reasons.

Q: What made you want to become a writer in the first place?

A: Being born? And being bored, maybe. I started to read when I was 2, and I just fell in love with books instantly. It never occurred to me that I might not become a writer.

Q: Do you work a regular job in between books?

A: Not anymore, but for the first five years after getting published I kept teaching Swedish for immigrants (SFI) both because I really enjoyed it and because I wanted the financial security. For the past 5 years I’ve completely relied on my writing.

Q: How many books have you published?

A: Twenty-four.

Q: How many books do you have in the works right now?

A: Two, or maybe three depending on how I’m counting. I am in the final editing phase of a language book in Swedish called “Handbook for the grammar police”, and I am also working on a novel that has been 5-6 years in the making. I hope to finish it this year, and I just got to see some suggestions for the cover so I’m very excited!

Q: What was your hardest scene to write so far?

A: I can’t think of a specific scene, but I do find it hard to describe things that have been described many times, and that are very according to the norm. Like having a beautiful, heterosexual man kiss a beautiful, heterosexual woman. Or even to describe a person that is objectively just “beautiful”. I have to first make it exciting and special in my head and then try to make it exciting and special in writing. 

Q: How many books do you have that are not being currently worked on, but are half-written or complete but unpublished?

A: Not a whole lot, actually. Maybe 5-6? Most of them are from before I was first published.

Q: Do you have a series developing?

A: The Kouplan series is, of course, a series, but I finished writing it a couple of years ago. The whole tetralogy of Kouplan has already been published in Sweden and France, though only the first part has been published in English. The novel I am writing on now is long enough that it has to be divided into three parts, so I guess that makes it a kind of series too.

Q: Do you want each book to stand on its own, or are you trying to build a body of work with connections between each book?

A: I have my own little universe, so my characters often intervene or show up in each other’s books. It’s like a wink to my most devoted readers. But apart from that, my books or my projects (such as the Kouplan series) are separate from each other in the way that they don’t all together shape a bigger story.

Q: What is your next book that is set to be published and when is the release day?

A: My next novel is probably going to be published in Sweden in March or April 2021.

Q: How long did it take you to write it?

A: Around six years! Maybe longer, considering the thought process started around 2012. 

Q: What did you do when your characters stop talking (writer’s block) to you during the process?

A: I don’t think I get the famous writer’s block, but of course there are times when I keep avoiding my book and fall prey to the distraction of social media. That means I either have to pull myself together and study my synopsis to understand what I am supposed to get excited about, or it means that my synopsis is lacking a step and I have to work on that. 

Q: What routine do you have when you sit down to write a book?

A: I sit down, check all my social media, check it again, turn on my music, open my ms, check my social media again, tell myself to pull myself together, stare at the ms, check social media, take a deep breath, have some candy, read what I wrote yesterday, ponder and maybe alter my synopsis, then start writing.

Q: Do you write it all out in long sittings or short ones (sprints)?

A: Mostly long sittings, but it’s difficult to say where the writing begins and where it ends. Sometimes I will think of a scene or a line and write it down on my phone, or I’ll get an epiphany right when I’m making pancakes and run into my office to get it down on paper. I have burned so many pancakes in my life.

Q: Do you get exhausted or energized during writing sessions?

A: Above all, relaxed. I get less anxious, it’s very obvious to my girlfriend. If I act all restless and worried, she tells me to go write on my novel for a while. (I’m not a super anxious person, but my head will start spinning once in a while.)

Q: Where do you get your ideas for your books?

A: Like most writers will say, “everywhere”. I think when you are used to thinking in terms of novels, your brain gets even more wired to view everything as a great idea for a book. You pass a rune stone (there are lots of rune stones in Sigtuna where I partly grew up) – what if there was a kid who discovered an unknown rune leading to the undiscovered story of another kid during the Viking era! You see the line-up to the liqueur store 10 minutes before opening – what if the stories of each person in that line intertwine and tell a bigger story! I usually get about 10-20 book ideas a day, and I think that’s very common for writers.

Q: Is there another author you look up to or strive to be as successful as?

A: Not really. Of course, as a writer, you always appreciate and in a way strive to getting more readers, more translations, more awards, more adaptations for the screen. But when it comes down to it, you have to follow your own creativity and harmonize with your own path. I’m not saying it’s wrong to have role models, just that comparison is not always favorable to creativity. 

Q: Are you a reader yourself? 

A: Definitely.

Q: If so, are you a beta or ARC reader for anyone else? (You don’t have to name for who if you do not wish to.)

A: Not on a regular basis, but occasionally I read my writer friends’ manuscripts when they ask me to. 

Q: Do you like to read the same genre(s) you write?

A: I do. That is probably why I write in those genres, because I always write what I would like to read myself.

Q: Do you have a favorite book or a book that stands out the most?

A: Not one in particular, but of course there are many books that I really love. 

Q: Have you ever cried, laughed, or had a real emotional response to a book?

A: Oh, many many times! Especially when I was young. I think that’s what has drawn me to writing Y/A.

Q: What kind of social media do you have? 

A: Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. On Facebook I have one page in Swedish, and later on I started one in English for the international audience. (The Swedish one is way bigger, so far.)

Q: Do you like to connect with your readers using your chosen platforms?

A: I do! Sometimes I get a lot of messages, and I don’t reply to the ones just saying “hello” but I make sure to reply to anyone asking me something (relevant) and thank fans for their engagement. They actually mean a lot to me.

Q: Do you have any author friends that have helped you with your writing process or just been there for support?

A: I have some author friends that I can turn to, and they can turn to me, when we struggle with something or need to vent. We don’t get really into each other’s work, but it’s nice to have people to talk to, when you don’t have “natural colleagues”.

Q: What was the best money ever spent as a writer?

A: Obviously my computer. But I could also mention my summer cottage in the Stockholm archipelago, where I love to sit and write. At least three of my books have been directly inspired by that place.

Q: How does your family feel about your writing?

A: They always encouraged it. I come from a family where creativity is highly valued. My dad used to write bedtime stories for me and my sisters when we were little, and all of us sisters ended up going to music senior high schools. Also, I have always worked to support myself, so they never had a reason to worry about me “chasing my dream” and forgetting about my responsibilities. 

Q: Is there anything about you that your readers don’t know that you would like them to know?

A: I really suck at cleaning. But I am quite good at building decks. 

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/saralovestam/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/saralovestam/?ref=br_rs (Swedish)

https://www.facebook.com/authorsaralovestam/ (English)

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/sara_lovestam?lang=en

Alright y'all, there it is! She laid all out for us, and I learned so much more about her! Sara Lövestam is an amazing author that has taken Sweden by storm, and I really hope that a lot more people around the world pick up her books. Be sure to check out the review I posted, her books, and her social media pages! I am still shocked that she agreed to do this interview, and super grateful!

The Rival's Protector (The Silent Family Series Book Two)

 

Alright y'all, you already know that I was super excited to read the second book of the Silent Family series by T. Steele. I absolutely loved the first book The Hitman's Desire, so it shouldn't be a shock that this is another instant favorite! It has all the things that you have grown to love and expect from T. There's the sassy but somewhat naive female lead, and the don't take no shit but falls hard for her male badass. This does pick up right where the first book leaves off, but does give enough of a background that you can read it out of order (though I do NOT recommend that at all!!) I am going to remind everyone that this is meant for 18+ readers ONLY, and could have a few triggers in it. This is part of a series, which means you most definitely should read book one first. If you haven't read it yet, then you probably shouldn't read this review. Let's dive in shall we??

Zoya Lebedev may have been raised in the Russian mafia family and was engaged to Alek, but now she is living in the La Familia Silenzio (the Silent Family) mansion. Zoya helped Malcolm's daughter Ruby escape from Alek's house a few months ago, and now she is under Malcolm's roof. Zoya does not ever let the fact that she is only alive because of Ruby leave her mind when all eyes are on her. Zoya knows she should be fearful of death while living under the "enemy's" roof, but it's better than being hit regularly by Alek. That is until she overhears two of the men talk about a Russian threat. Now Zoya is trying to climb out her room window using the sheets like she has seen in the movies.

Zoya makes it down to the ground as she is thinking about what she will do now, and is instantly caught by Ryder. With a tight grip on her arm, Ryder takes Zoya to Malcolm's office while she tries to keep her face blank of emotion like her father beat into her growing up. Malcolm surprises Zoya by inducting her into the Family and giving her a job in the casino, instead of killing her or sending her back to the Russians. The thing that shocks her the most by saying that she will move into Ryder's room and he will be in charge of her. Zoya doesn't even try to argue because she knows that she is lucky to be alive. 

Once inside Ryder's empty room since he is in the gym, Zoya decides to take some control of the situation by stripping naked and getting ready to offer herself to Ryder. At least this way she can say that he didn't rape her, which is the one thing that she always feared Alek would do. Just as she is starting to question the whole thing, Ryder comes into the room. He tells her to get dressed, because he knows that she doesn't really want to have sex with him and he doesn't want to force her. He makes it clear that he doesn't trust Zoya and will not be sleeping with her. They both go to bed after he handcuffs her to headboard for more his and the Family's protection than hers.

The next morning Zoya is woken up by the bed shaking because Ryder's arm is in so much pain. She knows that Alek is the one that shot him in the arm, so she doesn't say too much about it after her cream comment gets a dirty look. Ryder takes a shower while the door is guarded by someone else. When he comes out, he tells her that the tailor is going to give her a dress for her first shift at the casino. Before much more can be discussed, Ruby is knocking at the door ready to go with Zoya to the tailor waiting downstairs. Ruby tries to make sure that Zoya feels safe and comfortable.

Once Zoya is dressed with her hair and makeup done, Ryder escorts her to their car for the night. When they arrive at the casino, Ryder introduces her to the waitress who will train her and reminds her that he will be watching her every move. It's not late into the night when shots erupt as masked Russians storm the place and head straight for the private room Malcolm is in. Ryder was laying on top of her in a protective way until he tells her to stay put before heading to find Malcolm. Once the Russians are gone, Ryder takes Zoya to the room where Ruby, John, and the others are waiting. John instantly starts grilling Zoya about the fact that Alek is still alive and shot Malcolm, who may not survive.

Back in the mansion, Zoya is in Malcolm's office with Ruby, John, and Ryder when the news comes through that Malcolm died. This of course leads to more questions being thrown at Zoya about whether or not she knew about this attack. John even suggests using her as bait, despite Ruby's disagreement. Zoya tells them that she will do whatever they want, but begs that they don't send her back to Alek because she knows he will torture her to death. With shock on her face, Ruby reminds the men that she is now in charge since she is Malcolm's daughter, and comes up with a plan for a fake trade of Zoya for end of this life long feud between the two families.

The meeting ends with Ruby saying she will make the final decisions and she will make the call when the time comes. Once back in Ryder's room, Zoya take a shower to try to wash the day and feelings away. When she walks out of the bathroom, Ryder starts somewhat seducing her while trying to get to "admit" she is just playing innocent. The conversation ends with Ryder accusing her of trying to turn him against his family, and Zoya with a bruised heart because her attraction to him is real. They go to sleep with her handcuffed to the headboard again, because she knows Ryder doesn't trust her even more.

During the next couple days the whole house spends most of the day in the basement panic room for safety. Zoya has been taking Ruby's advice about learning poker with Liz, Ryder, and Luca. The casino has been shut down as well, but no one seems to be worried about it. Especially not after Zoya learns that office Cade Black is on their payroll, and they have an attorney named Diego Escalona. It's the night of Ruby's fake trade, and all Zoya can think about is whether or not Ruby will actually let Alek keep her. She is also worried about Ryder because she knows that he won't stop until Alek is dead, even if it kills Ryder. Everyone takes some time to get ready in their own rooms, which means that Zoya has to make herself look attractive for Alek no matter how much that makes her sick.

Just as she is looking herself over one more time in the mirror, Ryder knocks on the bathroom door. He instantly pulls her into a kiss and makes it clear that he is seriously attracted to her. Ryder asks if Alek ever forced her to do anything like that, and Zoya makes sure he knows that she's still a virgin. With that news, Ryder tells her that he is going to focus on her pleasure and that she belongs to him. Zoya is surprised to hear him agree to be whatever she wanted, but doesn't get to focus on it as Ryder starts licking her all over. She reaches climax, and is just coming down from it when John knocks on the door to say that they are getting ready to go. Ryder and Zoya get dressed quickly and join the others at the cars.

Ryder drives Zoya in their own car, and she begs him for a gun. He ends up giving her one, but warns that there will be problems if she uses it against them. Zoya knows it's not something he should have done, but she also knows that only Ruby is concerned about her safety and will be busy playing mob boss. Both Ryder and Zoya are so full of nerves that they are both fidgeting until they arrive at the casino where they are meeting Alek since it's closed anyway. John, Ruby, Ryder, and Zoya get settled in the private conference room with the rest of the Silent Family close by before Ruby calls Alek. Alek strolls in with some new Russians, and Zoya instantly goes blank while Ruby tries to sound cold hearted. Ryder steps in front of Zoya to block Alek's view, but she still has to force herself to walk to him.

When Zoya gets within arms reach of Alek, shots start ringing out. Zoya doesn't have time to run or hide when she sees that Alek is about to shoot Ruby. She tells Ruby to duck while she digs out the gun Ryder gave her to deliver the kill shot to Alek's throat. Ryder than tackles Zoya to the ground to protect her just before Malcolm joins them in the room to finish off the Russians. John and Malcolm run after the ones trying to escape, while the rest of the Family and Zoya try to process that Malcolm's alive. Ruby starts to thank Zoya for saving her life again when John and Malcolm come back into the room. Zoya is sure that she is going to die, but Malcolm surprises her by telling everyone that he is sorry for faking his death with Ruby and John. Before anything else can be discussed, officer Cade comes in and tells them that other officers are on the way. Malcolm says the clean up crew is waiting and Ryder drags Zoya out of the casino as she is taking one last look at Alek's lifeless body.

What will happen between Ryder and Zoya? Is she truly part of the Silent Family now that she has saved Ruby yet again? Are there anymore surprises in store for them besides their feelings for each other?

Alright there y'all have it! I loved it, even though the ending has me wanting book three sooner rather than later! I am so grateful that T. Steele is not only one of my favorite authors and friends, but that she still lets me tag along in her writing journey. I am so proud of her and her hard work, but that doesn't affect the fact that I loved this book. It has everything that a smutty romance lover needs every now and then. It is definitely for 18+ readers simply because of the steamy scenes alone! Be sure to check the Spotify playlist using the link below when you start reading this beauty! 

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2Jeg87ddkbECmPK7vlKg70?si=-HeKwQI4SpycoAxF1JlQ5w

If you can't wait to add this to your personal library, head on over to my page:

https://bookdragonsnotworms.blogspot.com/p/where-to-buy.html

Penance (R&R Book Tours Blitz Post)

Welcome to the book tour for Penance by Edward Daniel Hunt! We'll have interviews, reviews, a guest post by the author, and of course a giveaway -- $25 Amazon gift card! Read on for book details, an excerpt , and giveaway instructions! Penance Publication Date: April 2, 2020 Genre: Thriller/ Suspense/ Crime Fiction PENANCE is the first book in a series of crime novels featuring retired Boston homicide detective John Gilfillan. This story is about the race to find Lori Doyle. Ten years ago, Lori, as a teenager, witnessed a killing. Today, she has established a new life for herself and her daughter in Maine under an alias. Unbeknownst to her, all that’s about to change, as some are seeking her out to do her harm and some to do her good. A page-turner to keep you in suspense until the end. Available on Amazon

Excerpt

Marcy had never been more scared in her life. She truly believed he would have cut off one or both of her breasts if Paulie hadn’t walked in. There was nothing behind those eyes, no emotion, no caring, and no fear. Marcy had been around some scary guys in her life, including Tommy, his father, and some of the others. Tony was different. There didn’t seem to be any feeling behind his actions. No hesitation. No nothing.

She knew she had to reach out to JoJo and warn her that her worst freaking nightmare was heading her way. JoJo picked up on the first ring. There was a lot of noise in the background. Marcy held the phone slightly away from the side of her tender, bruised face.

“JoJo, this is Marcy, and you need to listen to me!” she blurted. “A guy named Tony, looked Italian, was just here, and scared the crap out of me! He’s crazy; broke my nose, cut my breasts and threatened to cut them off. I thought I was dead! He kept asking about Lori Doyle. I had to give him something. You’re next! He knows you work at Sallie O’s. Get out of there, while you can!” She was out of breath from talking so fast.

“Hey, thanks for the heads up, but an Italian in South Boston isn’t going to do very well. I’ll let my boss know and some of the regulars. They don’t like outsiders coming in here period, let alone stirring up shit.” JoJo sounded slightly sub­dued. Concerned, but not like her usual self; medicated maybe.

“JoJo, I was never more scared in my life! You be careful. You don’t know what he’s like. If you can get a message to Izzy, do it; she’s on his list too. Hey, I know you just lost Frankie and don’t need this mess but you’ve got to get away. This guy’s beyond crazy!” The whole thing replayed again in her mind and she felt like she might start crying again.

“Well, I’d like to see him go after Izzy. Izzy’s been hooked up with Tommy for a while now. Tommy can take care of himself,” JoJo said matter-of-factly.

“Please. Please JoJo, listen to me: he’s like nothing you’ve seen before! He’s an animal, no feelings, no fear! Please, you’ve got to get away now!”

Finally responding to the fear in Marcy’s voice, JoJo hes­itated. “Okay, Marcy…I’m glad you’re okay and I’m really grateful for the heads up. Really.” Marcy wracked her brain for the words to convince JoJo of the danger she was in. Before she found any, there was a click as JoJo terminated the call.

About the Author Edward Daniel Hunt has an undergraduate degree from the University of New Haven and a graduate degree from Lesley University. His short stories have appeared in the Scarlett Leaf Review, Down in the Dirt Magazine and Adelaide Literary Magazine. “Hit Men Have Feelings Too” was named a finalist in Adelaide Magazine’s 2018 Literary Award Contest for Best Short Story. His short story “Pieces of the Puzzle” was named a finalist for Best Short Story in Adelaide’s Magazine’s 2019 contest. Much of his early work and social life was spent in restaurants and bars, as evidenced by his writing. He is a member of the Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance, Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime New England. Adelaide Book Publishing has recently released his crime novel Penance. He lives in Old Orchard Beach, Maine within walking distance to the beach. Edward Daniel Hunt Giveaway: For a chance to win a $25 Amazon gift card, click the link below! a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blog Tour Organized By: R&R Book Tours

Rainbow (R&R Book Tours Blitz Post)

Welcome to my stop on the Rainbow blog tour. Read on for book details, an excerpt AND a chance to win a signed copy of the book! Rainbow Publication Date: December 2019 Genre: LGBTQ/ Black Fiction/ Novella Taylor has room for exactly two things in her life: improving her performance as a college basketball player and maintaining the grades she needs to stay on the team and someday play in the WNBA. But when she meets the beautiful and confident Melony, Taylor’s whole way of life is called into question. RAINBOW is a coming-of-age queer love story with a Love Jones kind of vibe. It’s the first of many queer black novellas by the author Verde Arzu. Add to Goodreads

Available on Amazon Giveaway: You have a chance to win a print copy of Rainbow, signed by the author! Just click the link below to enter! a Rafflecopter giveaway About the Author Verde Arzu is a passionate, middle school special education teacher. She graduated from Fisk University, a historically black college and university (HBCU) located in Nashville, TN. There she earned a B.A in History. Her love for teaching pushed her to go on to graduate school where she earned a Master of Science in Special Education from National University. Verde is not only a teacher but an advocate working to ensure equity for students of color, especially those with learning disabilities. Verde is excitedly working toward completing a post-baccalaureate certificate in writing from UC Berkeley Extension. Upon completion of the program, she plans to continue to publish novellas, short love stories, centered on realistic lesbian and queer relationships. Verde recalls writing her first piece of fiction as a kid on the front stoop of her two-flat home on the south side of Chicago. She traces her passion for writing stories about African American queer characters from her desire to see more characters’ voices she can relate to. A native Chicagoan, she currently resides in Northern California with her beautiful wife and two furry, four-legged children, Bob and Marley. She enjoys reading books written by African Americans—with her favorite genre being romance. She is a die heart Chicago sports fan. In her free time, she enjoys playing tennis, basketball, biking, binge-watching her favorite TV shows, and of course, cuddling up with a good book!

Verde Arzu | Twitter | Instagram

Blog Tour Organized By: R&R Book Tours

Author Interview with Mari Reiza

Alright y'all, I met this lovely Indie when she reached out to me on Bookstagram. She was like the second or third author to ask me to review their book, and I am still so grateful that she took interest in my small account. I will admit that I did take forever to read the book, but I know that is because I was trying to figure it all out. She was super patient with me, and I was still surprised when she agreed to do this interview. So let's dive in shall we?

Q: What is your name and where do you live?

A: mari.reiza is my pen name for women’s literary fiction, but I also write seashore novellas and stories of my native country (Spain) under different pen names.

Q: Are you an Indie Author or do you work with a publishing company?

A: I’m an Indie Author.

Q: What genre(s) do you write?

A: I write literary fiction.

Q: What made you want to become a writer in the first place?

A: I always wrote for pleasure and at work. Five years ago, I decided to take a break from my investment research career to look after my daughter and to devote all of my spare time to novel writing, as an experiment...

Q: Do you work a regular job in between books?

A: No, I don’t.

Q: How many books have you published?

A: Fourteen under mari.reiza: three short-story collections, a test on poetic prose, two novellas, seven short novels and a longer novel.

Q: How many books do you have in the works right now?

A: I’m taking a break at the moment but only ever have one book in the works, maximum two.

Q: What was your hardest scene to write so far?

A: A scene where a young man attends with his uncle to collect a brother returning from the war front without a leg.

Q: How many books do you have that are not being currently worked on, but are half-written or complete but unpublished?

A: I have an unpublished book of poems and an unpublished very short play but I don’t think I will ever feel they are good enough to put out there. Difficult genres!

Q: Do you have a series developing?

A: I have never had a go at a series so far...

Q: Do you want each book to stand on its own, or are you trying to build a body of work with connections between each book?

A: I’m certainly aiming at a body of work that talks my life experience at different times and from different angles but, although one can find threads joining disparate works, I would like each novel to stand on its own.

Q: What is your next book that is set to be published and when is the release day?

A: Nothing on the works right now and the last published work (under an alternative pen name) is a short humorous diary of a teenager growing up in Madrid during the eighties. It covers the months after Tejero’s political coup.

Q: How long did it take you to write it?

A: That one took me about four months.

Q: What did you do when your characters stop talking (writer’s block) to you during the process?

A: Given my material is my own life, by the time I get to write a story I know my characters quite well. But of course sometimes it’s draining and yes they stop talking; then I pick up a book (by someone else!), watch a movie or go out for a stroll to listen to people’s talk on the street.

Q: What routine do you have when you sit down to write a book?

A: I plan chapters very vaguely. I give myself a word target every day but for a limited number of hours. I read and annotate a lot of other books, articles etc around my writing work, and watch related videos and films, for replenishment.

Q: Do you write it all out in long sittings or short ones (sprints)?

A: Short sprints, definitely.

Q: Do you get exhausted or energized during writing sessions?

A: Writing on a blank page is exhausting. Second and third readings can be energising unless I’ve got it very wrong to start with!

Q: Where do you get your ideas for your books?

A: Fortunately or unfortunately, my work is centered around myself. Like many artists, I analyse my life to death. At least I know the subject!

Q: Is there another author you look up to or strive to be as successful as?

A: I only look up to authors because I love their books and some are very successful, and others I suspect put little money on the plate. Some of my favourites are Sri Hustvedt, Deborah Levy, Lily King, Emma Jane Unsworth, Sara Newman and Miranda July.

Q: Are you a reader yourself?

A: Definitely!

 

Q: If so, are you a beta or ARC reader for anyone else? (You don’t have to name for who if you do not wish to.)

A: No, unfortunately.

Q: Do you like to read the same genre(s) you write?

A: Yes, mostly.

Q: Do you have a favorite book or a book that stands out the most?

A: I did love: The Blind Assassin (Atwood), A Gentleman in Moscow (Towles), Barney’s Version, Paradises (by Havilio), A Blazing World (Hustvedt), Hotel Silence (Ólafsdóttir), Hot Milk (Levy), The Swimming Pool Season (Tremain), Irma Voth (Toews), Quicksand (Toltz), Euphoria (L. King) Happy are the Happy (Reza)…. There are so many.

Q: Have you ever cried, laughed, or had a real emotional response to a book?

A: Yes, every time for all of my favourite books.

Q: What kind of social media do you have?

A: After trying many things, I have only retained an Instagram account under my pen name.

Q: Do you like to connect with your readers using your chosen platforms?

A: Yes I do, very much. (She really does.)

Q: Do you have any author friends that have helped you with your writing process or just been there for support?

A: Leonora Meriel!, great writer and also Indie.

Q: What was the best money ever spent as a writer?

A: Other writer’s books.

Q: How does your family feel about your writing?

A: With the inspiration for my writing often being experiences close to them, it can be difficult. But most of them understand my books are ultimately fiction and pardon my compulsion to stretch situations and feelings to the limits in them.

Q: Is there anything about you that your readers don’t know that you would like them to know?

A: For as hard as it is, I think I would like to be valued for my work, not my person, and I would be very happy to have millions of readers who read me despite knowing very little about me! But thanks for putting me out there. It's highly appreciated!

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/mari_reiza/

Alright y'all, there you have it! This Spain native is not only a talented author of Caro, M., but she is also book obsessed like the rest of us! I am so grateful that she agreed to do this interview, but can never say thank you enough for taking interest in my Bookstagram when I was just starting out. I really hope that you guys check out her books, Instagram, and enjoyed this interview!

Author Interview with Samantha Sanchez

Alright y'all, I met this lovely Indie pictured above through Reads and Reels Book Tours. I signed up to review Samantha's book Prodigal, which I enjoyed. So naturally I reached out to her about doing this interview, because I wanted to get inside her brain a little. I was still so excited that she agreed, because I don't think that will ever change lol. So let's dive in shall we?

Q: What is your name and where do you live?

A: My name is Samantha Sanchez. I live in San Diego, California.

Q: Are you an Indie Author or do you work with a publishing company?

A: I am an Independent Self published author. I'd love to one day work with a major publishing house and have my book put in front of a wider audience. I do worry that doing so would take some control away from me though. (This is one of the main reasons that Indie authors are Indie authors.)

Q: What genre(s) do you write?

A: I guess if you want to classify it, I write Contemporary Urban Fiction but would like to branch out to other genres. I have plans for a Sci-fi type of story already. As well as a kind of murder mystery horror story.

Q: What made you want to become a writer in the first place?

A: I honestly don’t know. I was a child who liked to play make believe I watched a lot of television and movies and I enjoyed coming up with my own storylines and just letting my imagination take over. I wanted to write movies but when I started putting the ideas out on paper, I ended up giving more detail and emotion than what was required for a movie script and came out with books.

Q: Do you work a regular job in between books?

A: I do. I work as a security attendant at a retirement center.

Q: How many books have you published?

A: Only one so far. Prodigal.

Q: How many books do you have in the works right now?

A: Three. The continuation of my first book, the “sci-fi” story I mentioned before and another one.

Q: What was your hardest scene to write so far?

A: They’re all hard in a way. My goal is to make the stories as realistically dramatic as possible so the reader wonders “Wait, did this really happen?”.That takes a mental toll. My second book, Lyrical Chaos, was more emotionally taxing than my first book, Prodigal. The main character is so closely modeled after myself, my experiences, my emotions and insecurities just in a fictional setting.

Q: How many books do you have that are not being currently worked on, but are half-written or complete but unpublished?

A: I have one complete but unpublished, two still developing,  and about a dozen more ideas that I haven’t really gotten past the initial pitch.

Q: Do you have a series developing?

A: I have one developing, and another planned. That’s all right now.

Q: Do you want each book to stand on its own, or are you trying to build a body of work with connections between each book?

A: I want each book and series to stand on its own. I could probably make subtle hints to my first series in my next book. But not any connection to the characters involved.

Q: What is your next book that is set to be published and when is the release day?

A: My next book is Lyrical Chaos. It follows the main character from Prodigal into the next phase of her life. She’s a reality star who has to deal with the consequences of real life drama. The cameras are off but everyone is still watching. I plan to release it around Labor Day. (Super excited to see what happens to Lyric!!!)

Q: How long did it take you to write it?

A: About three or four years from concept to creation. Once I decided I wanted to make a follow up to Prodigal and how I felt Lyric’s life would play out, I had to rewrite book 1 from beginning to end in order to set up situations that would be revisited and continued in book 2 before I could really move forward with it.

Q: What did you do when your characters stop talking (writer’s block) to you during the process?

A: I force myself to leave it alone.

 

Q: What routine do you have when you sit down to write a book?

A: I start with whatever idea sparked the story. In no certain order, I write out exactly what it is in one long ramble bouncing back and forth between third person narrative, dialogue, first person narrative. Then I go from there.

Q: Do you write it all out in long sittings or short ones (sprints)?

A: Sprints. Throughout the entire process I get ideas that I don’t know where I’m gonna put yet so I go back to the ramble document and write it out. Then as I get further into the story, I’ll figure out where to place a previous idea and how to tweak it,if I even use it at all. I also carry journals and notebooks around with me in case I get an idea I want to elaborate on.

Q: Do you get exhausted or energized during writing sessions?

A: Exhausted. It’s draining and I get headaches a lot.

Q: Where do you get your ideas for your books?

A: I find inspiration from real life. Prodigal came from real life in the sense that the characters were based off of people I knew and spent a lot of time with almost in the same way as Lyric did in the book. I took an event that actually happened and asked myself “What if ?”.  “What would have happened had this event played out differently?”. “What if all this happened on Reality TV?” and so on.

Q: Is there another author you look up to or strive to be as successful as?

A: I strive to be as successful as any author who is successful enough to be able to live off their work and not need a regular job to pay the bills.

 

Q: Are you a reader yourself?

A: I love reading books.

Q: If so, are you a beta or ARC reader for anyone else? (You don’t have to name for who if you do not wish to.)

A: I don’t know that beta or ARC reader is so I’m gonna say no. lol

Q: Do you like to read the same genre(s) you write?

A: Sort of. My library holds a variety of genres so I would say my current book is a mash up of  Contemporary Urban Fiction and Celebrity autobiographies, mixed in with the twists, turns and transitions of scripted television dramas.

Q: Do you have a favorite book or a book that stands out the most?

A: It really depends on my phase of life. Currently no I don’t.

Q: Have you ever cried, laughed, or had a real emotional response to a book?

A: Yes. I was reading book 4 of Rachel Vincent’s Shifter series and I got so pissed off at the main character. I put the book down and didn’t pick it back up for 4 months.

Q: What kind of social media do you have?

A: I have a personal Instagram/Facebook page.  Also an author page on Facebook.

 

Q: Do you like to connect with your readers using your chosen platforms?

A: I’m still a fairly new author so I’m still working on becoming more visible to my readers.

Q: Do you have any author friends that have helped you with your writing process or just been there for support?

A: I connect with other authors on facebook. I met one in person at an expo and she connected me with another who put me onto blog tours and linked me with other authors. It’s a kind of community I didn’t have when I was first writing. It’s nice to know the things I struggle with as a writer are common struggles, especially for author’s who are still growing in their creativity. There are writing challenges that I take part in sometimes to motivate me to stop being lazy and work on my concept to creation speeds.

 

Q: What was the best money ever spent as a writer?

A: I paid for a table at an event called Black Writers on Tour. It’s also a business expo that offers seminars on different topics to help you move forward as an author and what to look out for as an independent Author. It also helped me step out of my comfort zone and engage with people and try to sell them on my book.

Q: How does your family feel about your writing?

A: My family is supportive of my writing. I know it bugs my mom sometimes because I’ll be in the zone or in a mood trying to figure out a particular plot line or story point and she’ll want me to get up and do something and I keep telling her “when i’m done” and it could  be awhile before i’m able to take a break. But she’s very proud of me. She brags about my book more than anyone. Even myself.

Q: Is there anything about you that your readers don’t know that you would like them to know?

A: I’m more than one thing. I have more than one avenue of interest for my stories. As I hope will be proven once I get these next three books finished.

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/forever_sanchez6486/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/samanthassanchezauthor/

Alright folks! There you have it! Samantha Sanchez is hard at work on her next book, and I know I can't be the only one super excited for it! I hope that you check out the review I have on here for Prodigal, and her social media pages. She really is a lovely lady that just wants to share her stories with the world! I am super grateful that she agreed to do this interview, and hope that you guys enjoyed it as well!!