Deck the Halls with Books Holiday Extravaganza: Stolen in the Dark (Fae Bureau of Investigation) by Scarlett West + giveaway

Top Ten Christmas Drinks

Along with all the sparkling lights and festive decorations, one of the things I most look forward to each holiday season is the many delicious drinks that are served.
Let’s check out some alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and find out which one is my favorite!

10. Apple Cider
I love the mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors of a hot, apple cider. On a cold evening with sparkling Christmas lights, a toasty drink like this warms the body and soul.

9. Mulled Wine
This isn’t a drink I see commonly in the USA but one I enjoyed in Austria. They may drink it elsewhere, as well. The base is red wine, then spices like anise star or cinnamon are added, and topped off with orange slices.

It’s a hot beverage, and because of the spices and wine, it leaves you feeling warm and cozy. Mulled wine is often served at parties or outside at the lovely Christmas markets.

8. Hot Chocolate
What’s a list without this classic? Hot cocoa is a wonderful hit for all ages! At my house, we often drink Mexican hot chocolate with all the yummy spices, but the pure chocolate version topped with whipped cream is also delightful.

7. Hot Buttered Rum
This is the ultimate comfort food drink! Prepared with rum, spices, and of course butter, this drink reminds me of a paranormal romance alpha male.
Sexy, spicy, and served warm, it’s sure to knock your socks off with its smooth flavor.

6. Holiday Martini
There are so many versions of a holiday martini. What caught my eye were the lovely colors these beverages display. Red cranberry, creamy, snickerdoodle, pecan, the list goes on and on!

5. Eggnog
Smooth, creamy, and sweet, what’s a holiday without eggnog? With a mix of nutmeg and light texture, it’s a perfect dessert beverage. And if you like it spiked, don’t forget the brandy or cognac.

4. Raspberry Bubbly
So what if you need to make a toast? Check out this lovely drink made with grape juice, and frozen raspberries. And, if you want it alcoholic, that’s an easy twist to arrange. So simple, yet so pretty.

3. Booze Grinch Punch
Omg. You’ve got to look this one up to see the color alone! Whoever thought of mixing lime Kool-Aid, limeade, and juice, created an amazing holiday drink that looks good enough to make virgin or alcoholic. It just sounds so tasty, and it’s fun-looking! (See below.)

2. Mexican Christmas Punch
Another wonderful drink some people might not have access to, but worthy of mentioning. I know it from my Mexican family, though some other countries might drink it as well. It’s made with hibiscus flowers, tamarind, a variety of fruits, and spices plus sugar cane. Many people make it virgin, and some like to add alcohol. If you ever get a chance to try this tangy, sweet, and warming drink, I highly recommend it!

1. Salted Caramel Mocha or Peppermint Mocha.
You might be rolling your eyes right now, like how is this lady making coffee her number one choice? LOL! I have a great reason so let me explain. Every other drink in this post I might enjoy once, maybe twice, or maybe not at all during the year. But coffee on the other hand is a daily necessity and joy for me, and I ADORE holiday coffee drinks! My favorite holiday coffee drink is Salted Caramel Mocha, but I added Peppermint Mocha for other coffee fans.

Thanks for reading my holiday drinks post. If you liked any of them, search by name on Google, and they will pop right up. Delish had A LOT of party drink ideas! Happy Holidays and here’s the Grinch Punch Recipe.

Grinch Punch Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 packets Kool-Aid Lemon Lime mix

• 1 Can Frozen Limeade Concentrate

• 4 cups pineapple juice

• 1-liter ginger ale

• 2 Cups Sugar

• 8 Cups Water

• And if adding alcohol, 2 cups vodka

• Ice according to your taste

• Red sanding sugar, for rimming your glasses

Preparation

1. Combine the Kool-Aid, limeade, water, sugar, and pineapple juice. Stir to combine completely. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

2. When ready to serve, combine ginger ale with the juices.

3. Serve in red sugar-rimmed glasses.

Stolen in the Dark (Fae Bureau of Investigation)

by Scarlett West
July 20, 2021
Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance
Publisher: Passion Press
ASIN: B0915V6MY2
Number of pages: 269
Word Count: 70,069
Cover Artist: Lori Grundy
He forced me into their world. Now dark enemies want me dead.

When an attempted kidnapping leads me to be rescued by a dark and sexy Fae, I assume life can’t be any stranger… Until I discover I’m his fated mate, and that he needs my help to stop a ruthless enemy from kidnapping his kind.

If someone doesn’t stop the brutal attacks, it could lead to earth’s ultimate destruction, so if I want to survive, I have to join the Fae Bureau of Investigation, with Damien as my superior.

But while Damien may be both hot as hell and my one-time hero, my unearthly ability to sense things through my hair is telling me to run: Damien can’t be trusted, and I would hate him as my boss.

With the enemy closing in, though, time is running out for me to make my choice: join the Bureau…or return home to my death.

Readers who enjoy Karen Marie Moning, Laurell K. Hamilton, Amelia Hutchins, and Lindsay Hall, will love this dangerous and sexy urban fantasy. Scroll Up and One Click to start reading this hot paranormal romance today!

Amazon

Excerpt
I narrowed my eyes at Damien. “Does that mean we would have to work together?”

Damien smirked. “Yes.”

I groaned. As it was, Damien set my nerves on edge in so many different ways. I wasn’t sure I could stand to be close to him. Every f*cking day. And the way he touched me? His hands on my hair? My senses swam when I recalled that embrace.

“Though I don’t like the way I was thrust into this situation, I believe you now. Except for the bracelets. I don't know if you put them on my arms or if they’re even still there. But what can I do to help?”

He raised his eyebrows, and a flash of heat blazed in his eyes. “Thrust, huh? I like your choice of word.”

My cheeks burned, and I was sure I was turning all shades of red.

Then, as usual, his expression snapped back to ice. “But this is no game.”

I opened my arms wide. “I'm aware of that. Explain it to me. What would I have to do?”

Still holding the folder, he crossed his arms and jutted out his chin. “Give up your life and join the FBI.”

I frowned at him. “The Federal Bureau of Investigation? You work with them?”

“Correction. The Fae Bureau of Investigation.”

About the Author:
FB-Twitter-Instagram
Bookbub-Amazon
Goodreads-Newsletter
Scarlett West writes steamy, paranormal romance featuring sexy Fae. Deep characters and hot romance are her thing. An avid reader and writer who will never stop dreaming, Scarlett has traveled to many countries and been on tons of adventures. She draws her stories from these places, life experiences, and her grand imagination. Besides writing, she's a hobby herbalist and a dancer. If she's not by the computer typing these things up, she can be found in a forest, on a mountain, or by the ocean. She would like to thank her three F's: Fans, Family, and Friends. Thank you forever for your support.

You can keep in touch with me by signing up for my newsletter. You'll be the first to hear about the latest releases, deals, and exclusive giveaways. Sign up here: 

Tour Giveaway

$10 Amazon Gift Card

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Review: Fae Origins: An Urban Fantasy Fae Romance (Origins of Magic Book 1) by Matthew Thrush and Amanda Fox

Fae Origins: An Urban Fantasy Fae Romance (Origins of Magic Book 1)
by Matthew Thrush and Amanda Fox
An uncommon magic. A sexy supernatural stalker. A disastrous curse.

The last thing McKenna Sawyer needs in her life is a stalker, even if he’s drop-dead gorgeous. She already has finals to worry about, not to mention what she’s going to do with her life once she officially graduates college. Being distracted is not an option.

Until she’s almost kidnapped and her stalker saves her.

Soon, McKenna is confronted with an earth-shattering realization: the supernatural exist, and there’s a war between them. And thanks to some curse her direct ancestor—a witch—placed on both the fae and the vampires, McKenna is at the heart of it.

Now McKenna must travel to the Fae world with her stalker—the vampire Aiden—to break the curse. But he’s holding something back, something that could ruin the fragile trust the two have built up thus far, and, McKenna can’t help but wonder if she’s being led into a trap with deadly consequences.

With the vivid supernatural magic of True Blood and the dark, forbidden romance of Karen Marie Moning’s Fever series, Origins of Magic is your newest urban fantasy romance addiction.

Origins of Magic
Fae Origins
Fae Awakening
Fae Curse
Fae Eclipse
Fae Solstice
Fae Reborn
Fae Dancing
Fae Legacy

Amazon

Fae Origins is book one in a new and enjoyable YA saga. I'm not 100% sure if this is meant to be YA, but it sure read like it most of the time. I tend to like I read dark and hard-hitting. This one does make you feel like it could get to that level but certainly not with book one. 

The main characters were fine as a pair, the back and forth banter at times was funny. Their chemistry was believable, and I did enjoy them, but not as much as I would have liked. Again, maybe just some more edgy pages were needed, a tad more of the dark and delicious. The urban fantasy world can be so plain at times, and sure I love a nice scoop of vanilla, BUT I want some tasty ass toppings all over that mother! No toppings on this one, just vanilla. 

As for the writing itself, it was fun, and you can tell a whole world is being built. No major misspellings or issues. The flow moved the story along. Being under 300 pages helped. I just think it was not an exact fit for me overall. I finished the story and took the parts I did like with me. Read other reviews, see what more people are saying. 

Getting 3 Sheep

KD

About the Author

website-FB-twitter

Matthew is a magician when it comes to writing books that sell and change lives.

He's written over 200+ bestselling books to date for his top-tier clients and has left a mark on the world with the massive impact those books are generating. He and his partners have helped launch more than 1,000 authors and books to the Amazon, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, or New York Times Best Seller lists, and he's on a mission to help over one million people share their knowledge, expertise, thought leadership, or stories in a book to impact one billion lives.

His work has been awarded Editor's Pick of the Week, been published in multiple online magazines and blogs, literary journals, and even used to promote Blockbuster movies. His one story has grossed over 1,000,000+ reads and used by Hollywood producers and directors to promote Season 8 of The Walking Dead, Pride & Prejudice: Zombies, and The Boy.

He even had a story that won Top 35 Finalist in one of TNT's competitive horror writing contests where the winner won a $20,000 GRAND PRIZE and had their story adapted to TV & film. Those two stories alone quickly brought in a flood of new avid readers tallying over 54,000+ in less than a few months and sealed his legacy as a top storyteller.

Some other cool accomplishments...

* 200-Time Bestselling Ghostwriter

7-Figure Direct Response Sales Copywriter

* Funnel, Webinar, & VSL Expert

7-Figure Content Strategist & Creator

7-Figure Marketing Strategist & Marketer

Multi-Award Winning Author

Top 35 TNT Horror Writing Finalist

Multi Editor's Pick of the Week Recipient

Best Seller Book Launch Expert

* Viral Book Writing & Marketing Coach

Your Book's SECRET Weapon

Expert Speaker & Guest on...

* Kindlepreneur

Author Platform Rocket

AWAI

Make Money While You Sleep

Your First 10k Readers

Wordslinger Podcast

Fearless Success Summit

Draft2Digital

Wattpad

6-Figure Ghostwriter

Perfect Funnel System

Legacy Builders Mastermind

However, Matthew gauges his success by how well his clients' books perform. He's fortunate to have worked with many of the best minds, talents, professionals, and world-changers. One of his client's based on true events Science Fiction Thrillers was adapted into a graphic novel with artwork by Marvel, DC, & Image designers, and is in talks for adaptation to the big screen and/or a video game. 

Others have gone on to generate multiple seven-figure income streams for multiple experts, coaches, speakers, consultants, and thought leaders, which opened the floodgates for them in ELITE partnerships and joint ventures with some of the biggest TITANS in the world, like Tony Robbins, Dean Graziosi, Jack Canfield, Russell Brunson, Kevin O'Leary, and Kevin Harrington.

Matthew wants to help you too. When you schedule your FREE 15-MINUTE BESTSELLER BRAINSTORM CALL, you'll be speaking with a master who can guide you every step of the way in your publishing journey and beyond. Come ready to have your mind blown!

https://calendly.com/matthewthrush/bestseller-brainstorm-call

Sci-Fi/Fantasy Release: The Rise of The Elites Collection "Six Will Fall, Six Will Rise!"

Reign of the White Phoenix (The Rise of The Elites Collection)
by Jessica Cage
Mar. 1st, 2021
Genre: Sci-Fi/Fantasy
The Ancients foretold of the one with the white flame. She would change the world.

Hidden since birth from her own people, Elsfaer was born with a distinct marking that covered her entire body. Before she could walk, she was seen as a threat to their existence. But there were those who believed that she should be protected at all costs.

With the call for a new Elite, the High Spirit chose Elsfaer as the next to lead the Phoenix people. The very people she’d been told to fear all her life. But unlike the rest of her people who burned either a blue or red flame, Elsfaer’s fire was the hottest of whites.

Her white flame was a sign of change, of a new order for her people. Unfortunately, Phoenixes weren’t exactly open to change, but Elsfaer knows something they don’t. The balance of the Phoenix has been thrown off and if she doesn’t fix it, their flames will burn out for the last time.

Rise of the White Phoenix is a part of the Rise of the Elites Shared World Collection

Read a Note from Elsfaer: https://www.riseoftheelites.com/reign-of-the-white-phoenix

Amazon-Universal-Goodreads

Excerpt:
The rustling of grass caught my attention. “Who’s there?” I called out, hoping that it wasn’t someone who wanted to try their luck despite the issued challenge. It wasn't unlikely that there were people who didn't care about the order of things or the consequences of the High spirit.

“Settle down.” The familiar voice of a person I thought I’d never see. "I'm not here to hurt you."

"Kaden?" I peered into the shadows unable to see the source of the voice.

“I thought you were the Elite.” He revealed himself, stepping from behind a large tree.

“What are you doing here? What if someone catches you?”

“I had to see it for myself. Your wings.” Kaden leaned against the tree. "I was prepared to be blown away with awe. Little did I know, you're really a Flameless after all."

“Well, sorry to make you come all the way out here for nothing.” I turned away from him, focusing on the busy fish again. "And I'm not a Flameless. At least I don't think I am."

“What happened?” He remained behind me, enough distance between us that he could escape if I decided to turn on him.

“I don’t know. I’ve waited my entire life to have them and now they are just gone.” My shoulders slumped forward. It was hard enough to have the thoughts in my head but saying it out loud gave the disappointment a new weight. “I would think you’d be happy about it. You wanted me to be a Flameless. Did you come here to gloat?”

“No, I didn't. Why would you think I'd risk being here just to rub salt in your wound?"

“Face it, you turned your back on me the moment you learned the truth. Don't get me wrong, you had every right to do it. I should have been honest with you from the beginning. I messed up.”

“I know it wasn’t all your doing." Kaden joined me on the bench and watched the water. "Ali can be convincing when she wants to be. I figured she probably concocted the entire thing and because she is your friend, you went along with it."

“I just wanted to enjoy my life; you know? I wanted challenges and experiences that weren't connected to being an Elite. I lived in that temple for years just waiting for the day that I would be strong enough to leave on my own. Not even a day after I mature, this happens. The option for that life and the freedom I longed for was ripped away from me. I never wanted any of this, Kaden."

“And now you’re here.” He nodded.

“I am, except nothing is how I thought it would be. I’m struggling, and I don’t know what to do.” All of Phaedrial had expectations of me. Zodiac had already decided what my future was without even considering me. And Ali, in all the commotion I hadn't even considered her. Where was she?

“I wish I could help.” He leaned back on the bench, finally looking at me and not the water.

“Why are you really here?”

“I told you.” He shrugged. "Wanted to be wowed like all the others. I knew you would be magnificent."

“I know what you told me, but I have a feeling that I’m not the only one who is capable of keeping secrets.”

“Okay, I'll admit it. You're right. I came here in anger." The moonlight bounced off his skin and gave his face a glow I'd never seen before. That was the thing about the Darkest Forest, it hid so many wondrous things. " I don’t know what I planned to do. It's not as if I’m strong enough to take on an Elite.”

“You wanted to fight me?” I raised a brow. That wasn't the answer I was expecting.

“I wanted to hurt you, the same way you hurt me. I believed in you. Watching you train the others, the care and concern you had for them, I was impressed." He paused, "And I thought we had something special. I confided in you, told you things about me that I'd never shared with another person. How was I supposed to know that you wouldn't use that information against me one day?"

“I would never do that,” I confessed. " Being with you all was the first time I felt like I belonged somewhere. Wings or not. I didn't want to lie to you, but I didn't think that you could ever accept me if you knew the truth. I care about every one of them and you. But I understand why you would be concerned."

“I didn’t know what to believe." He lifted his hand and carefully pushed the hood back from my face so he could better see me. "I had to be sure.”

“Well, you can be sure your secrets are safe. They will die with me; in just a few days it looks like.”

“Why do you assume you will lose?” He looked disappointed in me. "Have you suddenly forgotten how to fight?"

“Whoever challenged me has to be powerful. Or at least someone with a flame. I can’t compete against that.”

“You’re telling me you spent your entire life in combat training and you never once trained on fighting without your flame?”

“Well, of course, I have. That’s all I could do.”

“Okay, so you’re a skilled fighter and from what you taught our men in just a few short days, I know you’re capable of going out there and kicking ass." He shook his head with a stern expression. "Elsfaer, you can’t give up before you even step foot in the ring. That’s a sure-fire way to make sure you don’t come back out.”

“It's a lot to take on. In training I knew what I was up against, here, I have no idea. We don't even know who issued the challenge.”

“Stop whining. You have time, prepare yourself.” He stood from the bench to walk away. “There are still people who want to see you succeed. Not everyone wants your life to end, regardless of the secrets you have at your disposal.”

“Where are you going?” I stood wanting to follow him, but I knew it was best not to. Kaden being there was risky enough as it was.

“Back to the Odious where I belong. Maybe you can come to find me when you win.” He winked over his shoulder.

"Wait," I called out to him.

"Yes?"

Under the rising moon, I joined him beneath the tree. With death looming and life slipping away, I needed to take advantage of every opportunity to live. I stepped as close to him as I could and looked up into his eyes. With a sharp inhale, I lifted to my toes and pressed my lips against him.

As it always did, the kiss grew with intensity and fire until I felt like my flesh was burning. His hands gripped the small of my back before his arms wrapped around me and he lifted me from the ground. When our lips parted, we were both out of breath and flushed with our desire.

"Make sure you win, woman."

About the Author:

Website-FB-twitter
Amazon-Goodreads 
Newsletter-Instagram
Tiktok-Pinterest-Bookbub 
Join the Caged Readers on FB
Award winning and USA Today Bestselling author, Jessica Cage was born and raised in Chicago, IL. Writing has always been a passion for her. She dabbles in artistic creations of all sorts but at the end of the day, it's the pen that her hand itches to hold. Jessica had never considered following her dream to be a writer because she was told far too often "There is no money in writing." So she chose the path most often traveled. During pregnancy, she asked herself an important question. How would she be able to inspire her unborn son to follow his dreams and reach for the stars, if she never had the guts to do it herself? Jessica decided to take a risk and unleash the plethora of characters and their crazy adventurous worlds that had previously existed only in her mind, into the realm of readers. She did this with hopes to inspire not only her son but herself. Inviting the world to tag along on her journey to become the writer she has always wanted to be. She hopes to continue writing and bringing her signature Caged Fantasies to readers everywhere.

House of the Blue Flame (The Rise of The Elites Collection)
by Delzhia Jenkins
March 8th, 2021
Genre: Sci-Fi/Fantasy
The Houses are divided. A war is brewing between the clans. And our Elite has fallen.

My House - the House of the Blue Flame - has been the center of envy and fear by the other dragon clans for centuries. My grandfather and his father and so forth, protected our people as both the strongest breed of dragon and as Elites.

And now it's my turn.

My name is Adaya, granddaughter of former Elite, Horace "The Devourer" and next in line to stand in his place. As my grandfather once said, "A nation cannot stand if the houses fall..."

I'm here to protect and unite my people before each of our houses destroy each other. High Spirit has already marked me as the chosen Elite... But the question remains, will my people accept me? Or, will I face the same fate as others who came before me?

House of the Blue Flame is a part of the Rise of the Elites Shared World Collection.

Read a note from Adaya: https://www.riseoftheelites.com/house-of-the-blue-flame

Amazon-Universal-Goodreads

Excerpt:
The “Blue Flame Manor,” as my grandfather’s house has been dubbed, is now the meeting place for serious political discussions between members of the Blue Flame clan. I can’t even remember the last time this many Blue Flame’s congregated in the same place. All seven of the Elders including an additional twenty of their guests, cramped inside the foyer and the main room of our home. Questions and uncertainty hang in the air like a dark cloud. The emptiness that followed my grandfather’s absence weighs on me. I just want to retreat back into my room, close the door, and never come out again. I can’t do this, I think to myself as I stand at the stairway, gripping the railing. I’m not ready to do this.

“Adaya,” Drew says from behind me. “Are you okay?”

“Not really.” I sigh. “But I don’t have much of a choice.”

He gently places his warm hand on my shoulder. “You can do this.”

I suck in another deep breath, feeling grateful that at least I have the support of my favorite cousin.

“Don’t worry about those old farts,” Drew continues with a grin. “At the end of the day, they are much too content with their comfortable livelihoods to even consider challenging you for the Elite position.”

“I’m not worried about a challenge – at least not from another Blue Flame,” I tell him. “I just wish he was here…”

“I know. I miss him too and it sucks what happened to him. Aunt Clara is requesting for an investigation at the Foci. She wants to rule out that there wasn’t any foul play from the other Supes that were there.”

“The other Elites were killed too,” I remind him as we begin our descent.

“True. But given that there is a lot at stake here, she just wants to make sure that there isn’t an assassin out there desperate for a power grab. I’m sure the other Supes are planning to do the same thing.”

“The last thing we need is a war between the dragon clans and the other realms,” I add.

“Yeah. I remember hearing stories about vampires…nasty buggers,” Drew said with a chuckle.

“They live in the human realm, right?”

“Yup. Poor humans. I can’t imagine what it’s like to be fed on by a damn parasite.”

I shudder at the thought. “Ick. I heard about the Phoenix realm. Grandfather talked about how beautiful it is. He promised he would escort me there one day…”

“Well, you’re about to become an Elite so you will be able to take yourself there.”

Drew and I continue our small talk about the different realms until we finally reach the bottom of the stairs. Most of the clan had gathered into the living room and the foyer, leaving hardly enough standing room. We squeeze past a few bystanders until we make our way towards our aunt, who stood in front of the fireplace, quietly observing the guests.

“Oh, there you are, Adaya!” she says, giving me a quick onceover. “I’m glad you wore that blue chignon dress I picked out for you. You look like a strong Blue Flame with that on and your grandfather would be proud.”

She holds my gaze for a moment, her clear green eyes fighting back tears at the mention of my grandfather. “It’s going to be ok,” she adds. “I need for you to stand next to me as I address the Elders and everyone here regarding this matter. Keep your chin up, shoulders back… We can get through this.”

Drew and I share a glance before I nod. My cousin disappears into the crowd, while my aunt and I position ourselves to be front row center. In minutes all eyes are on us, and through their hard and curious stares, I feel the whispers of judgement. Even from the eyes of my peers, who stood with their families, their curious gazes wreak havoc on my nervous system. I look over at my aunt. She’s no longer crying. Instead, her expression carries a silent challenge to anyone who stands to oppose her proposition.

“First I would like to thank everyone for attending this gathering on such short notice,” she begins. “And I am sure that you are aware of the events that transpired at the Rising. Our great leader and chosen Elite- and my dear brother- Horace “The Devourer” has perished, just like the other six who appeared…”

The collective gasp and murmurs gave her pause. However, she continued without skipping a beat. “I have already moved forward with setting the proper investigations in place to ensure that there was no foul play at the hand of the other realms.”

“So, who will be our new Elite?” someone called out.

Another round of murmurs and questions filled the room. I looked over at my aunt uneasily, but she disregarded my stare.

“My great-niece and Horace’s granddaughter, Adaya, will take his place. The High Spirit has approved this selection and upon the next full moon she will appear at the Rising to take her place as the next Elite.”

“She is too young!” an older female called out.

“That’s not right!” another person shouted.

“Our bylaws state that any member of the Dragon clans may be elected as the chosen Elite. Why does this choice automatically go to Horace’s granddaughter?” Godfrey, the oldest son of one of the Elders, stood up, his question directed more at me than my aunt.

“Because the High Spirit confirmed it,” Aunt Clara said firmly.

Godfrey looked to his uncle Harold, leader of the Council of Elders for the Blue Flame House. Harold and my aunt have had their share of differences; but despite his nephew’s silent plea for assistance, Harold said nothing.

“How do you even know? The High Spirit does not commune with those who are not the chosen Elite.”

Silence followed his statement. The truth of his words echoed in the backdrop of the room and for the first since she took position in front of the entire Blue Flame clan, my aunt was at a loss for words.

I swallowed thickly and clenched my sweaty palms together as a slight tingling sensation began to creep down my forearms. Magic appeared out of nowhere, surrounding me in a blue light. Everyone looked on, as my arms became engulfed in a blue flame that took the form of my dragon. Its iridescent eyes looked back at me as it melted into my forearms, leaving a tattooed image of itself.

As the light faded, my gaze shifted from the new tattoos to the quiet stares of disbelief, awe, and horror.

So, it was confirmed.

Even with all of the protests against me being the selected Elite, the large group of Blue Flame dragons, young and old- Godfrey included- said nothing. Aunt Clara’s face slowly widened with a sad smile.

She tuned to face the surprised faces of our clan. “Any questions regarding the High Spirit?”

About the Author:
Website-FB-Twitter
Instagram-Bookbub
Delizhia Jenkins is an Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance author who currently resides in Inglewood, CA. The love for writing began in elementary school when the passion for storytelling developed into a journey of writing. Over the years, she honed her craft for storytelling and the written word by excelling in subjects such English and English Literature; and by indulging in her favorite past time which involved reading the works of Anne Rice, K’Wan, Christopher Pike, Carl Weber, Omar Tyree and finally the late L.A. Banks. J.R. Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood also claimed her heart and author Karen Marie Moning joined the ranks of Miss Jenkins’ all time favorite authors.

Miss Jenkins began publishing in 2013 with her first African American romance novel, Love at Last. After that, it was realized that her true magic rested in her writing about the ancient, the esoteric, and the supernatural. Moreover, since 2014, after her release of Nubia Rising: The Awakening, Miss Jenkins remained true to herself and her calling. And of course, being a true romantic at heart, it was important for her to fuse romance with the paranormal with a dash of “color.” Miss Jenkins prides herself on writing for “the woman without the fairytale” and of course bringing magic and melanin to each book she writes.

Order of the Shadow Dynasty (The Rise of The Elites Collection)
by Jennifer Laslie
March 15th, 2021
Genre: Paranormal/Urban Fantasy
One Girl. Two impossible tasks. Thirty days to survive.

Jaguar shifter Mei Ching is underqualified for the job at hand, but with the mark of the Elite appearing on her arm, she knows she must protect her position in order to ensure the safety of her people. The wolves have reigned for long enough.

But Mei’s not only been chosen as the next Elite, she’s also been tasked with discovering the cure for the virus ravaging the shifters. With her friend Tao by her side, they must unravel the clues left by the High Spirit, but there’s just one other problem. Mei is pretty sure Tao is her one true mate.

Between defending her place as the next Elite, suppressing her primal urges, and searching all over China and Penumbra for the cure, Mei isn’t so sure she’ll be able to survive the next thirty days.

Order of the Shadow Dynasty is part of the Rise of the Elites Shared World Collection.

Read a Note from Mei Ching: 

https://www.riseoftheelites.com/order-of-the-shadow-dynasty

Amazon-Universal-Goodreads

Excerpt:
Beneath my fingertips, Tao’s heart beat rapidly. Probably just as fast as my own.

When I didn’t pull away, the corners of his mouth ticked up into a semblance of a

smile.

“Tao?”

I’d been fighting this attraction since he spoke up for me at the council meeting, but did he feel the same way? His small smile told me he might.

He leaned in, hesitated, but then seemed to find some ounce of courage and closed

the distance.

My eyelids fluttered closed as his warm lips pressed to mine. It was just a small peck to test the waters. When I opened my eyes, Tao stared at me with even more

concern, his eyes shifting from to my lips then back as if to silently ask if

he’d made a mistake.

But then this warmth suffused my body, lighting me on fire. My heart thumped

wildly, and when I looked at Tao, he gazed at me with the same heat I felt

licking up the inside of me.

I yanked my hand from his chest, grabbed both sides of his face, and smashed my lips to his. This wasn’t the gentle kiss from a moment ago. No, this kiss was wild, feverish, and no holds barred. My tongue danced with his as I tasted him

and devoured every breath.

I clung to him and held on for dear life. Never had I been kissed like this before or felt this need to get as close to another person. I wanted, no needed, to feel the heat of his body on mine, skin to skin. The animal within me tried to claw her way up at the same time I jumped and wrapped my legs around Tao’s waist.

His strong arms caught me as he carried me around to the loveseat. He settled on

the edge and finally broke away long enough to draw in a ragged breath.

“Mei,I don’t know—”

But I cut him off with another kiss. My hands shook as I cradled his head, unable

to resist pressing my body even closer to his.

Tao stood and then laid me down on the loveseat, settling between my legs as he left my lips to trail wet kisses down my jaw, neck, and collar bone. His lips brought goosebumps to my flesh and a delicious heat to my core. A moan escaped me as I arched my body into his.

I sucked in fresh air and tried to clear my head. This wasn’t me. I never lost

control like this.

“Wait—” I closed my eyes as Tao lifted the hem of my shirt and nibbled across my stomach while one of his hands inched its way up to my bra to cup one of my breasts. “Oh, my God.”

“Mmm,” Tao hummed against my skin.

“No,” I managed to squeeze out between clenched teeth, even as my body screamed yes. “Tao, we need to stop.”

He rose, and to his credit, removed his hand from my chest and sat back. His chest heaved as he caught his breath. “Mei, I don’t know what came over me.”

“I don’t either. This isn’t me. I have way too many things on my plate already and a relationship isn’t something I need to add to the mix.” I sat up and scooted as far away as possible. My pulse still thrummed and my body seemed to sway toward Tao of its own accord, but I resisted reaching out to him.

Tao nodded. “I agree. My top priority is keeping you alive and helping you find

this cure.”

“Thank you.”

He looked away. “I should go.”

“Yeah, maybe that’s best.”

He stood up on shaky legs. His actions were jerky as he walked towards the door.

“I’ll call you tomorrow.”

And then the door shut behind him and my world crumbled.

TEXT HERE

About the Author:
Website-FB-Twitter
Goodreads-Amazon
Newsletter-Instagram
USA Today Bestselling author Jennifer Laslie writes paranormal romance and young adult. She's a crazy cat lady who lives in Utah with her wonderful family. Her office affords her a mountain view that she loves! When she's not thinking about cheesecake or cats, she can be found in the bookstore in the Young Adult section, coffee in hand.

Ascension of the Blood Throne (The Rise of The Elites Collection)
by Mikel Wilson

March 22nd, 2021
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy
"A vampire prince. Two teenage girls. The ultimate fight for the throne."

Christian is the prince of the vampires and next in line to the throne now that their elite vampire king is dead. To claim his rightful place on the throne. He must first find a bride. Sometimes the best laid plans can't go off without a hitch.

Lilith, an average teenager and recently turned vampire is thrown into a struggle not her own, and fighting to figure out her growing powers, she must choose sides between the vampire hunters or the very creatures that turned her. When the prince sets his sights on her best friend Mackinzie as his bride, he may become the hunted.

Sides will be chosen, powers will clash, but will Christian be ready to take the throne in time? Or will he become prey to the very beings he has hunted for millennia.

Ascension to the Blood Throne which is part of the Rise of the Elites shared World Collection.

Read a note from Christian: https://www.riseoftheelites.com/acension-of-the-blood-throne

Amazon-Universal-Goodreads

About the Author:

Website-FB-Twitter
Amazon-Goodreads

Best-selling author Mikel Wilson took the world by storm with The Hybrid series. This science-fiction/fantasy series is filled with everything one could possibly ask for: action, mystery, romance, werewolves, vampires, Greek gods, and so much more. Despite such success, Wilson has not let it get to his head. Mikel Wilson was born and raised in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Being the youngest of nine children—four boys and five girls—Mikel Wilson was never lonely. Growing up, religion had been a major influence, mainly because he was the son of a preacher. This influence is still with him today, as he is the minister of music at his church. Mikel Wilson is married to Danielle and they have four children together.

Trials of The Black Throne (The Rise of The Elites Collection)
by E.M. Lacey
March 29th, 2021
Genre: Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Bastard. Heiress. Will she claim the throne?

Onyx Jones has spent most of her adolescent life dodging death. Now an adult, she appreciates the quiet life. It’s not perfect. It’s got its own drama. But she’s alive.

Tranquility morphs into chaos the moment she crosses over into another realm: Penumbra.

Onyx discovers that she has been chosen by the High Spirit to be the Elite of the Orcs. She races against the clock to claim a throne she’s not sure she wants. With the help of a band of supernatural rejects, Onyx journeys to the Orc capital of Oracaii. Will she survive her calling?

Read a Note from Onyx: https://www.riseoftheelites.com/trials-of-the-black-throne

Amazon-Universal-Goodreads

Excerpt:
“As I said before the crossing, time is not on our side. The Rising is only a few days away.”

Onyx growled, cutting him off, as she stalked up to the Shifter, stopping inches away from him. She raised her gaze to meet his. “Look! You say this like I know what it means.” Slashing her hand toward the ground, she curled it into a fist, drawing it back around in a mock punch, stopping just short of Cassius’s ribs. “I don’t.” She unfolded her fist, letting her hand drop to her side. “I don’t know if I want to know what it is.”

“Sadly, it’s not your choice.”

“Like hell!’ Onyx’s voice crackled with power. She was unaware her eyes glowed red, but she noticed Cassius take several cautious steps back, slowly raising his hands as he moved. She sized him up like a meal, muscles taut.

“It is the will of the High Spirit.” Cassius paced his words. “It is the way of things.”

“Well, I’m not from here.”

“Half of you is a child of this place which ties you to its laws.” Cassius leveled a finger at the collar beneath her turtleneck. “The knowledge stone marks you as the Chosen; as the Chosen, you must make the Rising and complete it.”

“What the hell is this Rising?”

“You must fight for your place as the Elite.” Cassius lowered his gaze and arms as he stopped moving.

“I’m not fighting anybody.” Onyx swatted away Cassius’s words, then stalked off to the opposite side of the tent, aware that the two Orcs blocked the exit.

“Then you’ll die,” Gryk said matter-of-factly.

The air fled her lungs. A sedate pivot brought her face to face with him. “What do you mean I’ll die? I haven’t done anything to anyone here. I don’t know anybody.” She jerked her chin at Cassius. “Except for him and that’s barely.”

“You are the Chosen. You must answer the Rising,” Gryk offered.

“Still, I don’t know what this Rising is. It sounds like a death sentence.”

“It is for the loser,” Gryk said.

“So why would I want to participate?” Onyx waved her hand toward Gryk, then to Joseph. “I don’t stand a chance if I’m fighting anything like you two.”

“You will be ready by the time we reach the borders of Oracaii.” The two Orcs and Cassius laid their right fists over their hearts and did a half bow.

About the Author:

Website-FB -Twitter
Instagram-Amazon
Goodreads-Bookbub

E. M. Lacey is an author who writes about diverse characters set in dark urban and dystopian landscapes. She’s a coffee drinkin’, meme postin’, movie watchin’ girl who loves to talk all things books and movies. You might bump into her at local comic cons and other such nerd fests. Whenever she’s not getting her nerd on, she’s writing, reading, binge-watching Netflix, or communing with horror movie fans and other authors online.

Ms. Lacey hails from Homestead, Florida but resides in Chicago, Illinois. She is working on her next piece.

Fellowship of The Last Fallen (The Rise of The Elites Collection)
by Kish Knight
April 5th, 2021
Genre: Paranormal/Urban Fantasy
​Under the threat of everlasting fire, the Fallen and the Unfallen must unite…

Or die.

Long exiled from the heavens, Dix knows her place as ‘one of the Fallen’, so when two Archangels show up on Earth to take her back to Fifth Heaven, she’s stunned. And whether she wants the job or not, she’s been chosen as the next elite.

With rogues wreaking havoc, and the higher-ups releasing the slow-burning flames to destroy their shadowy world among the clouds, the Angels need her help. But as she takes her position as Elite, the Council she thought would guide her have abandoned their post in protest of her coronation.

To make matters worse, the old Elite’s sexy brother has come to her with a secret matter that could get them both cast into the flames. Can she juggle her responsibilities and keep her people safe along with her heart?

Read a Note from Dix:

https://www.riseoftheelites.com/fellowship-of-the-last-fallen

Amazon-Universal-Goodreads

Excerpt:
The uncanny feeling that someone was watching me began the instant I awoke. Soft sheets rustled along the enormous bed as I shifted, wondering what had awoken me.

Only the tiniest sliver of moonlight peeked through the slit in the curtains. Everything else in my room was dark. But the glimmer of light was enough for me to see the large shadowy figure standing motionless at the window. I couldn’t tell anything except for the fact that he was male.

‘Remiel?’ I thought. ‘The Elite’s brother?’

Immediately, I jumped up, pushing the sheets away and struggling to get out of the bed.

“Be quiet.”

At the single command, the pounding of my heart quickened. From the voice alone, I knew that it wasn’t Remiel. In fact, I had no clue who it was, only that whoever it was now stood in my room. And had been there for a while, apparently.

Ignoring the intruder, I began backing away from the bed, self-preservation on high. I was in an unfamiliar palace, with an unknown number of enemies. That’s when the figure shifted, allowing that same slice of moonlight to slide across his clothing. A spiked metal breastplate caught my eye.

Fear shot through me, and I could feel the cold beads of sweat pop out on my forehead. The only creatures that ever wore that particular type of breastplate were Shades.

“I haven’t done anything,” I immediately offered, my voice a hoarse whisper, half out of respect, half out of terror. Upsetting this Shade was not in my best interest, I know.

‘Of course, the mere fact that he’s here isn’t good….’

About the Author:

Website-FB-Twitter
Blog-Instagram

Kish Knight, teen and new adult paranormal fantasy author, was born and raised in the US Virgin Islands. Seeking out the supernatural, she relocated to Savannah, Ga. for the ghosts, ghouls, and old-world charm. After reveling in the Southern ghosts, she took residence in the DC area and met a new set of city spooks.

When not at her desk, she's most likely to be found with a book (nose-deep), romping with her 8 dogs (7 pits and 1 Chihuahua mix), or plotting out ways to take over the world (or at least the book market). Her current round of busywork always involves developing a plethora of design documents for her latest e-book series.

Kish also writes middle-grade novels under the pen name of Cher Cabal. She is the author of the Returned novel series: Resurrection, Hellbound, and Dawning, as well as the expanded compilation, Returned to Fire; the Dead-End Ave series: The Shelf and The Shelf 2; the Senior Year series: Geek - Boy Equals.... and Geek to Diva in 20 seconds; and also of the middle-grade novel, Our Crew PLUS boys!

Interview: UF Author Katie Zaber + giveaway

Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?

I grew up in Waretown—pronounced where-town, New Jersey. The name is a perfect description of the town. As a child in the car, I would blink and be in the next town over. My childhood house is blocks away from a lagoon and is a quick walk to Barnegat Bay. With ice cream cones in hand, our family took many walks down to the bay, to say hi to Old Barny—the Lighthouse on Long Beach Island. My elementary school was inland in the Pine Barrens, home to the New Jersey Devil. I can remember going to Wells Mills Park, a mile away from the school, to go on a field trip and read about the notorious birth and how the Devil still haunts the woods. He was even rumored to make appearances at kid’s birthday parties. There were tons of woods and swamps to explore. When the streetlights came on and our shoes were too muddy from the day playing, a quick splash in the bay was all they needed before going home for dinner. Our shoes never were allowed inside the house. My imagination went wild in the woods by the bay and I went on many adventures within my small community. It’s those childhood memories that continue to inspire my writing, revisiting those distant lands not too far from my childhood home.

When you’re not writing, how do you spend your time?

I love baking delicious desserts and breads, almost as much as I love to eat them. I spend hours in the kitchen, blasting music, sipping sweet wine, with flour up to my elbows. When not in the kitchen, I’m reading a book or trying to find something to find on TV. If the weather is nice, I’m visiting my hometown and going to the beach or heading to Six Flags Great Adventure to scream for the afternoon.

Describe your desk.

My desk is a wonderland of post-it notes in three different colors: pink, neon-yellow, and green. A yellow, mini-spiral notebook holds all my scribbles on marketing tips and info. The notebook is separated by little sticker tabs, the ones not in use are floating on the surface of pamphlets and lists of login information to accounts I never visit. A leather bounded diary with nautical embellishments, complete with anchor bookmark, holds random thoughts that need to be worked out on paper. A mechanical pen can be spotted, hiding between the yellow notebook and leather diary. Its extra parts: erasers & extra graphite are strewn about the entire desk. Lastly, a rectangular, leather box holds a brass kaleidoscope made to look like it was used on a whimsical pirate ship. I zone out, staring through it when confronting a writing block. Somehow, all the colors and childishness of it helps me every time.

What’s the story behind your latest book?

The first draft for Ashes and Blood started when I while I was recovering from surgery and bored out of my mind. A Christian song, Lord of the Dance, somehow was stuck in my head and my imagination took over. I pictured a king singing the song—a much more sinister version—while destroying a village of people that disobeyed him. At first, the story was going to be about him and how his reign ends, which made me change my focus. I wanted the story to be about someone ordinary, without any powers or ability to fight. Someone who should die when faced with impossible feats, but can overcome them.

What are you working on next?

Dalya series is my main project with the first five books already plotted. The second book, Below Dark Waters, is in the editing phase, and should be out in the summer. Book three, Stranger Shores, is in the first stage on being drafted. When I need to focus on something else, I have another book and series that I’ve been toying with. DNA—Demon’s N Angel’s, is a standalone book about a woman’s journey through her mysterious pregnancy. I’m hoping to have that out in the fall. Another series I’m developing is called, Lullabies from the Grave. It’s about a woman that can get in touch with her past life’s, every life that her spirit lived. She sees ghosts and is involved in the paranormal.

Who are your favorite authors?

I love books that take me to a different world or way of thinking. So I mainly go for authors in that realm: J.R.R. Tolkien, Kevin Hearne, Jim Butcher, Karen Marie Moning, John Conroe, Laini Taylor, Margret Atwood, Chuck Palahniuk, George R.R. Martin, Jennifer Estep, Naomi Novik… just to name a few.

How do you approach cover design?

I search for an artist whose gallery looks close to what I want as a finished project. Each artist has a unique style, vision, and way of creating your idea. It’s all about finding the right match. Then I tell the artist what I envision, send them a couple images of things close to what I want, and then let their mind go to work. One of the most important things about working with a designer is to let them mold your idea into what will sell. They know art. They know what graphic design’s catches the eye and what colors to use when trying to portray a certain feeling or tone. They know what they are doing.

Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?

The first story I wrote, was after I had read the elementary school book, Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli. I wanted a sequel to the book and was mad that there wasn’t one. So I got a bunch of paper and started to write. I think I wrote around 50-60 pages before I started a different project and forgot about it. Years later, when I told my mom that I had finished writing Ashes and Blood, she said I still have your first book. I told her one day I would finish it, just for her.

Ashes and Blood (Dalya Book 1) 
by Katie Zaber
May 13, 2020

260 pages
Genre: Fantasy
“I’ll start at the beginning. Long ago, before roads, before we built structures, before medicine was discovered, before the government was created, before man gained any knowledge, there were The Five. Independent from each other, The Five had a mutual respect for one another. They knew their roles in the world and their duty. They were gods…”
An adventure begins when an otherworldly tree captures the attention of Megan and her friends. The environment morphs around them, transferring them to an exotic planet. Stuck in a rural town still maimed by the plague, a chance encounter with a familiar face gives Megan and her friends some security during their adjustment period.

While settling into new, promising lives, they are attacked and stalked by planet Dalya’s humanoid inhabitants, who focus on Megan. One dark night, after an epic, magical attack, the Fae King’s knight is sent to fetch Megan. When she wakes up a prisoner, she learns that there is much more to this strange world, and it is oddly more like her own than she ever would have expected.

**Get it FREE on Amazon!! ** 

Add to Goodreads 

Amazon-Apple-B&N-Kobo-Smashwords

Excerpt
Megan
It gives me chills to stand in front of the forest that morphed in front of my very eyes. I’m hesitant to walk through the tree line and down the path. The last time I walked down a path for leisure was a week ago. We had planned a picnic. Something simple, always easy to organize and do. It wasn’t hard planning our walk to Brynjar’s cabin today. What could go wrong?

I try hard not to think of all the possible outcomes—from returning to Earth to traveling to a completely new world.

Sarah and Dana were able to walk by without stopping to take notice or reflect. Ciara paused for a moment and then smiled gleefully, saying she had a good feeling.

I don’t. I feel dizzy, angry, and like I need to vomit. I don’t want to do this. I don’t want to go into the woods that changed my life, I don’t want to meet Brynjar, and I don’t want to go back where it all started.

I don’t.

Below Dark Waters (Dalya Book 2) 

**Only $1.99!!** 

Add to Goodreads

Amazon-Apple-B&N-Kobo-Smashwords

About the Author

Website-FB-Twitter

Bookbub-Amazon-Goodreads 

Katie Zaber is originally from Southern New Jersey. Her childhood home is just minutes from the Long Beach Island Bridge. When not writing, Katie can be found at wine tastings, sun bathing at the beach, going for hikes, screaming at Six Flags, reading, or in her favorite place, her kitchen, baking desserts and breads. She currently lives in Morris County, New Jersey with her boyfriend.

Giveaway 

$25 Amazon 

Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway