BOOK TOUR & GIVEAWAY: My Big Heart-Shaped Fail by Cindy Callaghan #TweenContemporary

A tween comedy-of-errors that chronicles the most cringe-worthy day of 13 year-old Abby Gray’s life.

My Big Heart-Shaped Fail

by Cindy Callaghan

Genre: Tween, Upper Middle-Grade Contemporary Fiction

Award-winning middle-grade novel from the author of Just Add Magic and Saltwater Secrets . . . .

In this hourly time-stamped, action-packed tween comedy of errors, Abby Gray, feeling weighed down by her secrets and lies, lets five balloons float into the sky with her deepest secrets attached to them in a desperate attempt to clear her conscience. Her relief is short-lived, though: the next day, those balloons start dropping one by one at her school, revealing Abby’s innermost thoughts to both friends and frenemies and creating hilarious misinterpretations of crushes amongst her peers.

This is the worst day of her life . . . or is it? Before the last bell rings, Abby manages to integrate the oddball who is blackmailing her into her friend group and to fix the mix-ups the notes have caused—not only getting couples back together but also making a few new love matches—and finally comes clean as the author of the notes that have created such chaos.

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mybigheartshapedfail - excerpt

 The temperature dove below zero and snow flurries whirled, but my mom braved the cold and helped me haul boxes of decorations into school.

“Thanks,” I said as she dropped a bag from the Donut Hole into the last box for me to manage on my own. The Hole was right next to the school and, like most kids, we often stopped and grabbed breakfast on our way to school.

My math teacher, Mr. Valdez, pulled his pickup truck into the parking lot. Mom waved and flashed him her signature smile, which she always has even when she’s tired from working late into the night.

She kissed her hand and touched my cheek with it. As she left, she called to Mr. Valdez, “Have a nice day.”

He waved to her with his free hand while the other fiddled with his car’s antenna.

“What’s that?” I called to him.

“Oh, nothing.” He put something in his pocket, walked over to me, and put a red ribbon into my box. “Here, I think maybe you or someone dropped this.”

“Uh, thanks,” I said, but I hadn’t been near his car, so I don’t see how I could’ve dropped it there. Maybe a stray piece of ribbon blew over.

“Go on inside before you freeze,” he said, his eyes following my mom’s car as it pulled out.

It was impossible not to notice the school office since it was overflowing with balloons. A delivery guy walked in behind me with another bunch.

“I’ll take those,” I offered, and towed a bunch of balloons to the gym along with my box. It was going to take a lot of trips to transport the rest of the delivery from the office.

Jess and Paige had started early and already striped one entire wall with red and white streamers. It looked great, like peppermint sticks, except they’d made ten stripes, while peppermint sticks had eleven, my favorite of all the prime numbers. I figured I’d add one more stripe later when no one was around. There was no need to be inaccurate.

Paige beamed at the balloons. “Yay! They’re here.” She looked behind me and the smile drained from her face. “Where’s the guy?”

“What guy?” I asked.

“Didn’t the party store send a balloon-arch-maker guy?”

“No guy,” I said.

Logan Murphy swaggered in behind me. “I’m a guy.” This was the understatement of the trimester. Logan wasn’t just any guy. He was Mount Lebanon Middle School’s “It Guy.” Logan worked in the school office on his free periods, like now, which gave him access to hall passes, which was a big deal. At The Mount, hall passes were gold.

“Hi Abby,” he said to me without a hint of flirtation, yet I felt my cheeks blush.

All the girls at The Mount liked Logan. So far, he hadn’t asked anyone to the dance, and lots of girls were holding out in hopes he’d ask them.

“How’s it going?” I asked.

Before he could answer, Jess said, “Well, that’s not gonna work. Logan can’t build a balloon arch. He couldn’t even build an Egyptian pyramid out of Legos in Social Studies.”

Logan said, “Legos are rectangles and pyramids are triangles, so it’s not as easy as it sounds.”

As if Jess hadn’t heard his defense, she said to me and Paige, “Look, he might have an awesome smile and be captain of the basketball team, but he is NOT a balloon arch builder. We need a professional.” Then, she added, “Just sayin’.”

Logan didn’t seem offended. “You don’t have to apologize for thinking I have an awesome smile. People tell me that a lot.” He showed off the famous grin. Geez, he was cute.

“Okay,” Paige said. “Slight problem with the crème de la crème of our decorations. And as chairwoman, I have a solution. We’re going to make this arch ourselves with directions I’m going to download and print right now.”

Nothing would stand in Paige Bakenya’s way of transforming this gym into a Peppermint Twist Dance Wonderland.

“Okay committee, stripe the next wall. I’ll be back before you can say ‘peppermint.’”  With that, she took the one coveted hall pass Mr. Valdez had given us for the day.

“I’ll let you girls handle this stripe business,” Logan said, “and I’ll get more balloons from the office.”

“Paige just took the hall pass,” Jess said.

He chuckled. “Dude, it’s me. I navigate these halls like a stealth weapon.” On his way out, he was decked by Chloe, who entered the gym dancing and singing.

“What the heck?” Logan asked, picking himself up and wiping gym floor dust off his basketball shorts—yeah, he wore shorts all winter.

Chloe ignored him. “He likes me!” she said and twirled.

“Uh, yeah, so I’m outta here.” Logan left the gym.

“Who?” Jess and I asked.

Chloe said, “Tao.”

WTW? Paige’s Tao?

This was shocking. So shocking that I couldn’t get words out to ask for clarification.

Chloe continued pirouetting, as if she were in a magical love trance. “I love love. Don’t you?”

Luckily, Paige wasn’t around to hear this because she would’ve choked on her Peppermint Twist planner at the idea that her boyfriend, who she’d recently kissed for the first time, liked Chloe. This was so Chloe to stir up drama.

Jess asked, “What are you talking about?”

“You heard me right. Sorry for your friend Paige—actually, sorry, I’m not sorry—but here’s the harsh reality, Jessica Sawyer: Tao likes me.”

Lots of girls were jealous of Paige. She was pretty, friendly to new kids, handed in assignments early, and had the best-decorated locker. She always shared her homemade cookies with everyone, and somehow they always seemed just out of the oven, even when it was late in the day. It was a mystery no one’s ever been able to solve.

“Everyone knows Tao and Paige are boyfriend and girlfriend,” Jess said. “Where did you even get this idea? I’m just sayin’, the idea is ridiculous.” Sometimes Jess not having a filter was good because it got her point out in the open rather than beating around the bush.

“Ridiculous, you say? Then why did he give me this?” Chloe held up a paper that Jess snatched and read to herself. When she was done, she handed it to me. But I didn’t have to read it.

I already knew what it said, because Tao hadn’t written it.

I had.

The Girl Who Ruined Christmas

by Cindy Callaghan

Award-winning middle-grade Christmas novel from the author of Just Add Magic and Saltwater Secrets . . . .

Imagine you’re a tween visiting a small town that loves nothing more than its prize fir—a perfect Christmas tree destined for the White House. Now picture yourself accidentally destroying that tree, making you public enemy number one. Lastly, imagine that to repay your debt, you have to remain in said town for the Christmas season.

That’s what happens to Brady Bancroft.

When Brady ruins Harper Hollow Fall’s prize tree, she’s sentenced to stay in the holiday-festooned town for the month of December. At first, she couldn’t be more depressed about the whole situation; but during her month there, she is surprised to discover that there’s much more than pine needles to the little town holding her captive. In the end, Harper Hollow Falls reminds Brady of the true meaning of Christmas—and she, in turn, saves the town.

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Cindy Callaghan is the award-winning author of eleven MG novels including JUST ADD MAGIC and JUST ADD MAGIC 2: POTION PROBLEMS, which were made into an Emmy-nominated Amazon Original series now in its fifth season and distributed world-wide via Nickelodeon. She’s well-known for the best-selling Lost In… books: LOST IN LONDON, LOST IN PARIS, LOST IN ROME, LOST IN HOLLYWOOD, and LOST IN IRELAND. Her Agatha award-winning stand-alone SYDNEY MACKENZIE KNOCKS ‘EM DEAD sells out every year around Halloween.

Her 2020 book SALTWATER SECRETS, which is nominated for an Agatha Award, won Delaware Press Association and National Federation of Press Women’s awards, and two International Book Awards, is set up by a major studio.

Triple-award-winning THE GIRL WHO RUINED CHRISTMAS, (October 2021) sold out its first print run before Thanksgiving. MY BIG HEART-SHAPED FAIL has won three awards since it’s 2022 launch. These books along with original concepts are actively being shopped to producers, networks and streamers along with Cindy’s robust portfolio of original features and series.

A Jersey girl at heart, Cindy lives in Delaware with her family and rescued-pets.

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BOOK TOUR & GIVEAWAY: Christmas with the Cowboy by Shantal Sessions #HolidayRomance

A British cowboy bachelor, the rodeo queen he’s been crushing on, and fateful family entanglements threatening to keep them apart…

Christmas With the Cowboy

A Cowboys and Tiaras Romance Book 2

by Shantal Sessions

Genre: Small Town, Second Chance Christmas Romance

A British cowboy bachelor, the rodeo queen he’s been crushing on, and fateful family entanglements threatening to keep them apart…

While visiting his former Oxford flat mate, British bachelor James Davenport falls in love not only with the small town of Primrose, CO, but with rodeo queen Isabelle Pomeroy. But a family crisis sends James scuttling back across the pond leaving Isabelle without an explanation.

Isabelle Pomeroy spent the last year touring the state as Miss Rodeo Colorado, and comes darn close to winning Miss Rodeo America. But her tenure is over and she’s anxious to come home to her family for Christmas. Helping at her family’s ranch is a welcome distraction from the heartache left by a handsome Brit who left without so much as saying goodbye.

Without warning, James returns, working hard to become a true-blue cowboy and anxious to win her back. Isabelle is determined to avoid another heartbreak, but it seems a tall order amidst her small town’s festive traditions and everyone brimming with holiday spirit.

Will James weave some Christmas magic and convince Isabelle of what’s truly in his heart? Will Isabelle allow herself to heal, so they can finally forge a real relationship?

Christmas with the Cowboy is a heartwarming second chance romance bursting with Christmas magic, charming holiday traditions, and an emotionally satisfying happily-ever-after.

**On Sale Now! Get it fast before the price goes up!**

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Caught by the Cowboy

A Cowboys and Tiaras Romance Book 1

A disillusioned rancher, a runaway rodeo queen, and two old flames who could burn them both…

After his father lost their ranch in a high-stakes poker game, Will Hawkins fought for his job as general manager at the Hayfork River Ranch. With his inheritance now in the hands of a California billionaire, he’s determined to make sure it doesn’t get developed into luxury ranchettes and shopping centers. And try to forget about the woman who betrayed him and broke his heart.

Emmy Jo Jackson is hiding from her ex-fiancé and a raging social media storm. As a rodeo queen vying for the state title, it’s only a matter of time before he finds her and tries to take revenge. She seeks refuge in the Hayfork River Canyon where she hopes the beautiful vistas and wide-open spaces will allow her a chance to steel her resolve and train at the ranch for her upcoming pageant.

Will is resigned to his life and bent on not getting distracted by another pretty heartbreaker. Emmy Jo is determined not to let a grumpy cowboy who’s easy on the eyes derail her from chasing her dream. Except spending time together on the ranch weakens their defenses, like a rail fence coming undone, and pretty soon they’re both questioning their previous notions. When their pasts come-a-calling, can Emmy Jo and Will round-up the lies and see them for what they are? Or will the love that blossomed on the ranch be lost forever?

Download Caught by the Cowboy today and get roped into this sweet and clean, grumpy/sunshine romance, breathtaking scenery, and an unforgettable cowboy guaranteed to make you swoon.

Praise for Shantal Sessions–

“Caught by the Cowboy combines the charm of a rodeo queen, Emmy Jo, with the rugged allure of Will Hawkins, a ranch manager who should have been the heir. Both have their guard up, but the chemistry between them is electric as they move from antagonists to swoony kisses. The wit and banter as Emmy Jo and Will challenge each other leads to some hilarious outcomes.The author includes a gorgeous ranch that I’d like to go visit, as well as authentic rodeo details. Add their despicable exes causing more havoc, and you’ve got a book you can’t put down. Recommended.”
~Jen Peters, award-winning author (Black Rock Ranch series)

“Sessions does a great job of pulling the reader into life on the ranch and shows the dedication it takes to become a rodeo queen. Caught by the Cowboy is a captivating, authentic, small-town romance that will keep readers turning pages well past their bedtime.” ~Jill Burrell, Author of the Best-selling Finding Providence Series

“Caught by the Cowboy is everything a sweet romance should be–complete with vivid characters, flirty banter, and sizzling chemistry.” ~USA Today Best-selling Author Kimberly Krey (Sweet Montana Bride Series)

“The chemistry between Will and Emmy Jo is palpable, as their blossoming relationship forms the heart of the story. The author expertly crafts scenes that are laden with tension, emotion, and a genuine sense of connection, captivating readers and drawing them into the characters’ lives.” ~USA Today Best-selling and award-winning author Donna K. Weaver

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Shantal is hopelessly romantic. She adores writing ALL THE FEELS right up to the first kiss and beyond saying, “I do.” She is a multi-genre sweet romance author who engages in her two great passions: reading and writing heart-soaring romance, charming characters with chemistry, and scintillating kisses that will steal your breath away. Originally drawn to writing young adult Medieval romance, she’s since written contemporary romance, all sweet and clean.

Happily living in a love story all her own, she lives in Utah with her husband, near her two married sons and amazing daughters-in-law, and her two granddaughters. Shantal loves the great outdoors and can be found gardening in summer and skiing in winter. She’ll come inside to hunker down for a Jane Austen book or film (or romance, romcom, and costume drama), and to make the most delectable pumpkin chocolate chip cookies on the planet. Learn more at https://www.shantalsessions.com.

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BOOK TOUR & GIVEAWAY: Reversal! by Raj Agrawal #SuspenseThriller

The thrilling and suspenseful story of CRAPS that the Oil Companies want to kill, and the Chinese want to steal…

Reversal!

Not For Sale! Trilogy Book 2

by Raj Agrawal

Genre: Suspense Thriller

In a world plagued by climate change, where the future of our planet hangs by a thread, “Reversal!” takes you on an electrifying journey into the heart of a groundbreaking scientific innovation that could save humanity. Enter the world of carbon dioxide recapture and processing systems (CRAPS) through the eyes of Dr. Ravi Kumar, a brilliant scientist as he uncovers the potential to reverse the damage done to our environment while fighting deadly attacks from powerful foes…

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Not For Sale!

Not For Sale! Trilogy Book 1

Aviation engineer Dr. Ravi Kumar and his AI expert wife, Dr. Caitlyn Mariko are on a world-wide run for their lives from two of Americas most powerful chief executives and a rogue nation. And all this for refusing to sell their aero-engine invention that will revolutionize the aircraft industry and help save the planet from the ravages of climate change. Their invention is Not For Sale! The two scientists have other plans for it…

If you like Crichton, Brown, Baldacci, Koontz, Grisham and others like them – you are going to like this fast-paced thriller. And even though you may not have heard of me, give it a read, it is an interesting story – worth your time and money.

Tell us something really interesting that’s happened to you!

I met my future wife the first day I arrived in North America for my post graduate studies, and we have been together since for almost 50 years now.

What are some of your pet peeves?

Preferential treatment of a segment of the population based on the color of their skin.

Where were you born/grew up at?

I grew up and spent my formative years in the holy Hindu city of Varanasi, India.

Describe yourself in 5 words or less!

Global citizen with stories to tell.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

In high school when I got my first essay published in a leading Indian magazine.

Do you have a favorite movie?

Gandhi

Which of your novels can you imagine being made into a movie?

Both my novels – Not For Sale! and Reversal! tell interesting and exciting stories about topical subjects and could be made into movies.

 

What inspired you to write this book?

My grave concern with what we, the humans, are doing to our planet and it’s climate. I my stories, I have tried to weave the story of my own life experiences while providing some food for thought on what we can do to combat the scourge of climate change.

 

What can we expect from you in the future?

My next book, like the first two, would also be an eco-techno-thriller and would be about the latest invention of my protagonist, Dr. Ravi Kumar, to fight the incessant cycle of fire and draught caused by climate change.

Can you tell us a little bit about the characters?

In both my books – Not For Sale! and Reversal!, the lead characters are Dr. Ravi Kumar, an aviation material scientist, and his AI expert wife and life partner, Dr. Caitlyn Mariko. They are both first generation immigrants and are passionate about keeping our planet safe for the generation of their three daughters and the generations that come after them.

Where did you come up with the names in the story?

The names in the story in the most parts are names of real people I have met over the course of my life and have simply transposed them to names of characters in my book.

What did you enjoy most about writing this book?

Doing the research on subjects that I knew little but was passionate about and wanted to learn more to help make my stories feel real and believable.

 

Who designed your book covers?

I hired a professional book designer from the Philippines to do my book covers.

Raj Agrawal is a retired aerospace engineer and a first-generation immigrant from India. After completing his bachelor’s in engineering from the Institute of Technology located in his hometown of Varanasi, he came to Ottawa, Canada where he got his master’s in aerospace engineering and met his future wife, Mire Kimura, a fellow international student from Japan. They moved to Montreal where they made their home for almost a quarter century and became the proud parents of three daughters, all born in one year. The family immigrated to United States, the land of ground-breaking research and revolutionary inventions, just before the turn of the new century.

He has worked for more than forty years at some of the leading US and British aero engine companies. He has many technical publications and over 30 patents in aviation engineering and has been a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and American Helicopter Society. He was also an adjunct professor teaching a graduate level course on aero-engine design.

He now splits his time between his residences in Florida and Colorado with Mire, travelling around the world, spending as much time as possible with his four grandchildren and writing.

Reversal! is his second novel in the Not for Sale! trilogy and is once again loosely based on his own life experiences, hope and expectations.

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BOOK TOUR & GIVEAWAY: Merry Ghostmas by Josie Malone #PNR #Holiday

The holidays are the best time of the year in Baker City, Washington especially when the town ghosts decide to wreak havoc and do their own version of A Christmas Carol.

Merry Ghostmas

A Baker City: Hearts & Haunts Christmas Novella

by Josie Malone

Genre: Holiday Paranormal Romance

The holidays are the best time of the year in Baker City, Washington especially when the town ghosts, led by newcomer, Army Ranger Moises Pride decide to wreak havoc and do their own version of A Christmas Carol. They’ll attempt to redeem Nick MacGillicudy, the incompetent horseshoer who’s been hurting two and four-legged folks for years. He needs a lesson not only in manners, but also in empathy and what the haunts consider decency.

Along the way, they’ll also help Kyra O’Neill, local riding instructor find love, light and happiness with a ‘real man’. Orphaned at a young age, Derek Waller found a new life in the US Army. Thirty years later, he’s ready for something more than camos and combat boots. A home of his own in Baker City won’t be complete without the woman who runs the pool table in the cocktail lounge at Pop’s Café and defeats him on a regular basis.

There’s no place like home for the holidays in Baker City – thank heaven! And it’s Merry Ghostmas to one and all!

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Kindred Spirits

Baker City Hearts & Haunts Book 5

by Josie Malone

Genre: Paranormal Ghost Military Romance

Two soldiers devastated by heartache, Debbie Ramsey and Rex Sinclair decided to rescue themselves with a mutually supportive endeavor, a “marriage in name only.” He wanted a guarantee after a tumultuous divorce. Betrayed, rejected, and abandoned by her family, she wanted a safe harbor. Amazingly, their scheme actually worked and oh, what adventures they had along the way.

Eight years later, she’s leaving the U.S. Army behind, trading her camos and combat boots for blue jeans and cowgirl boots. Now, the owner of Miracle Riding Stable near Baker City, Washington, Debbie intends to have a riding good time at her new home. Does having a new life mean leaving Major Rex Sinclair behind?

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**Don’t miss the rest of the series! **

Find them on Amazon

Josie Malone lives and works at her family business, a riding stable in Washington State. Teaching kids to ride and know about horses, she finds in many cases, she’s taught three generations of families. Her life experiences span adventures from dealing cards in a casino, attending graduate school to get her Masters in Teaching degree, being a substitute teacher, and serving in the Army Reserve – all leading to her second career as a published author. Visit her at her website, http://www.josiemalone.com to learn about her books.

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BOOK TOUR & GIVEAWAY: The Ty Dawson Mysteries by Baron Birtcher #thriller

Ty Dawson is a small-town sheriff with big-city problems

Reckoning

The Ty Dawson Mysteries Book 3

by Baron R. Birtcher

Genre: 1970’s Neo-Western Thriller

Ty Dawson is a small-town sheriff with big-city problems, in this riveting crime thriller from the award-winning author of Fistful of Rain.

As lawman, rancher, and Korean War veteran, Ty Dawson has his share of problems in the southern Oregon county he calls home. Despite how rural it is, Meriwether can’t keep modernity at bay. The 1970s have changed the United States—and Meriwether won’t be spared.

A standoff looms when the US Fish & Wildlife Service seeks to separate longtime cattleman KC Sheridan from his water supply—ensuring the death of his livestock. If that’s not enough trouble, a Portland detective is found dead in a fly-fishing resort cabin. Though the Portland police, including the victim’s own partner, are eager to write off the tragedy as a suicide, Ty has his own thoughts on the matter—as well as evidence that points to murder. His suspicions soon mire him in a swamp of corruption that threatens nearly everyone around him. Turns out that greed and evil are contagious—and they take down men both great and small . . .

Praise for the Ty Dawson Mysteries

“Combines the mystery and honesty of Craig Johnson’s Longmire with the first-person narration of a fiercely independent Oregon character.” —Sheila Deeth, author of John’s Joy

“A masterful work of a time gone by . . . Ty Dawson is a cowboy, lawman, father and philosopher like none other.” —Neal Griffin, Los Angeles Timesbestselling author of The Burden of Proof

**New Release!!**

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Fistful of Rain

The Ty Dawson Mysteries Book 2

The second Sheriff Dawson mystery has “lots of twists and turns that stretch back over years, then a mind-blowing ending that puts everything into place” (Killer Nashville).

Winner—2019 Best Book of the Year, Killer Nashville

Ty Dawson, now the sheriff of Oregon’s Meriwether County, is ready to put a trying year behind him, but he’s afforded no such luck. In a country still coming to grips with the Vietnam War, Watergate, and Charles Manson, Ty’s neck of the woods isn’t safe from the turmoil—especially when a commune of young so-called hippies springs up out of nowhere . . .

A longtime local sheep rancher accuses the Rainbow Ranch residents of livestock theft, putting Ty in the middle of a culture clash. Though Ty finds no evidence of a crime, the rancher brings in his own stock detective. Behind fences topped with razor wire, the commune and its enigmatic guru hold secrets of their own—many of which have nothing to do with peace, love, and understanding. Tensions flare, setting off a bloody wave of violence that will forever scar the place Ty calls home, unless he can stop it.

Elegantly written . . . Ty may strike some readers as almost too smart, too well educated, and too pedantic for a small-town sheriff, but his insights into 1970s social issues make him an irresistible spokesman for the era.” —Publishers Weekly

A modern Western . . . The characters are well developed, and place descriptions make it easy to visualize the landscapes.” —New York Journal of Books

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South California Purples

The Ty Dawson Mysteries Book 1

The novel combines the mystery and honesty of Craig Johnson’s Longmire with the first-person narration of a fiercely independent Oregon character.” —Sheila Deeth, author of John’s Joy

Winner of the 2018 Killer Nashville Readers’ Choice Award
2017 Foreword Indies Finalist for Historical

A Korean War veteran, Ty Dawson finds refuge running his family’s cattle ranch, the Diamond D, one of the largest in Oregon—and there’s no place he’d rather be. But in 1973, the country falls into turmoil with the last soldiers returning from Vietnam, the stand-off at Wounded Knee, and the ongoing Watergate scandal. And it isn’t long before Ty finds his own peace and quiet shattered by outside forces.

A string of mysterious cattle deaths leads to the murder of a cowhand, but that’s just the beginning. News leaks that the Bureau of Land Management plans on a wild horse slaughter, which brings protestors and news cameras to the area, not to mention a violent biker gang known as the Charlatans. Overwhelmed, the sheriff appoints Ty as undersheriff. And as events spiral out of control, Ty must take matters into his own hands to protect his family, his land, and his way of life . . .

A masterful work of a time gone by. Birtcher possesses a rare skill that is the envy of many a writer. He deftly employs literary prose to reveal the life of a hard-driven man. Ty Dawson is a cowboy, lawman, father and philosopher like none other.” —Neal Griffin, Los Angeles Timesbestselling author of The Burden of Proof

[A] fast-moving series launch . . . Birtcher takes readers on an exciting ride.” —Publishers Weekly

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Baron Birtcher is the LA TIMES and IMBA BESTSELLING author of the hardboiled Mike Travis series (Roadhouse Blues, Ruby Tuesday, Angels Fall, and Hard Latitudes), the award-winning Ty Dawson series (South California Purples, Fistful Of Rain, and Reckoning), as well as the critically-lauded stand-alone, RAIN DOGS.

Baron is a five-time winner of the SILVER FALCHION AWARD, and the WINNER of 2018’s Killer Nashville READERS CHOICE AWARD, as well as 2019’s BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR for Fistful Of Rain.

He has also had the honor of having been named a finalist for the NERO AWARD, the LEFTY AWARD, the FOREWORD INDIE AWARD, the 2016 BEST BOOK AWARD, the Pacific Northwest’s regional SPOTTED OWL AWARD, and the CLAYMORE AWARD.

Baron’s writing has been hailed as “The real deal” by Publishers Weekly; “Fast Paced and Engaging” by Booklist; and “Solid, Fluent and Thrilling” by Kirkus.

He divides his time between Hawaii and the Pacific Northwest.

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BOOK TOUR: Honey Mead Murder by Dahlia Donovan #cozymystery #LGBTQ

Get ready for a charmingly quirky romance with a twist of murder mystery in Honey Mead Murder!

Honey Mead Murder

Honey Bear Cosy Mysteries Book 1

by Dahlia Donovan

Genre: LGBTQ MM Romance, Cozy Mystery

Get ready for a charmingly quirky romance with a twist of murder mystery in Honey Mead Murder!

Follow the heart-warming story of George Bernard Sheth, a devoted pug and bee lover, who has been secretly crushing on a local mead brewer. But when a customer dies during a mead tasting, Murphy Baird, the brewer, finds himself at the centre of a police investigation.

As the two navigate the murder mystery, they find themselves falling deeper in love, all while trying to stay alive long enough for their first date. With meddling friends and unexpected plot twists, “Honey Mead Murder” is a must-read for anyone who loves a good MM romance and a thrilling mystery.

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Dahlia Donovan wrote her first romance series after a crazy dream about shifters and damsels in distress. She prefers irreverent humour and unconventional characters. An autistic and occasional hermit, her life wouldn’t be complete without her husband and her massive collection of books and video games.

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COVER REVEAL: Cry of the Grackle by Lee James #SiFiFantasy

Check out the cover for the upcoming Cry of the Grackle by Lee James!

Cry of the Grackle

by Lee James

Genre: SciFi Fantasy

Let me vanish into the void that bore me. There I will find peace.

Born into the violent confusion of the human race, Rosh is defamed, abused and alone.
Is he destined to save us or die trying?

**Releasing Soon!**

Lee James writes stories of hope and redemption. Whether it’s fantasy, mystery or historical fiction, her beautifully awkward characters traverse a dark labyrinth on their journey to a hopeful end.

She is vehement about the importance of creating and preserving the sanctity of the written word. In that vein, she supports literacy programs and her local libraries.

Most importantly, she supports her fellow writers. When not writing, she enjoys photography, watching The Simpsons, and of course, reading.

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BOOK TOUR & GIVEAWAY: Rogue Wolf by Lilliana Rose #ParanormalRomance

 

Tamaska is to become a wolf shifter but she might not survive the change.

Rogue Wolf

Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 3

by Lilliana Rose

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy

Tamaska is to become a wolf shifter but she might not survive the change.

If Tamaska wants to survive being hunted by vampires she must transformed into a wolf shifter. But new information brings into question if the transformation process will work or not.

Kodiak doesn’t want to take any risks that might end Tamaska’s life. She is his mate and he can’t imagine living without her. He’d rather she is alive, protected by himself against the vampires. But the vampires capture Kodiak.

Can Tamaska find someone else in the pack to transform her into the wolf shifter? Will she find a way to rescue her wolf mate without letting the vampires capture her?

Tamaska started up the car, ready to drive back to the pack. She’d promised Kodiak she wouldn’t return to her apartment, but it was the middle of the day, when vampires slumbered or whatever they did…hung upside down like bats? She was safe in any case and the chance to shower, to wash away the past few days and grab some clean clothes was too tempting.

What’s the worst thing Kodiak could do to me?

The thought opened all sorts of delicious possibilities that she shut down.

It wouldn’t take long. She’d just grab some of her clothes and toiletries, a few things that would make the clubhouse more like home for her.

“But he said to head right back.”

Tamaska drove the car through the crazy Sydney traffic, heading back to Kodiak.

Home called just as strongly as doing what she was ordered to do. She was sick of wearing sweaty, stinky clothes stained with blood.

It reminded her of the vampires, the fight, and the death she’d witnessed.

Tamaska gripped the steering wheel tightly, as if that action could push away the images burned in her mind.

A horn blasted from behind, and her attention crashed back into reality.

The lights ahead were green, and the cars behind were impatient for her to drive on. Tamaska took her foot off the brake too quickly and lurched forward.

Another blast from a car behind her set Tamaska on edge.

If she was careless and caused an accident, the pack members likely wouldn’t be so forgiving—especially Onai, since Tamaska drove his car. She needed brownie points, not black crosses against her. She couldn’t keep messing up and doing the wrong thing.

Kodiak wouldn’t need to know.

And he wouldn’t, not if she was quick. He was too busy with his new role, leading the pack. He wouldn’t even notice, never mind be angry at her.

All she had to do was to get to her apartment, then get back with the carpet cleaners.

Easy.

Tamaska parked in front of her apartment.

It’s close to the clubhouse, anyway.

Without another thought, she got out of her car and hurried inside the apartment building. After being transformed, she would never need to go back again. It made sense for her to get some of her things now rather than later.

Excuse after excuse for this disobedience filled her head.

The sun shone warm on her skin—another excuse…it was too early for the vampires to out hunt her.

Returning to the apartment might be a sightly risky detour, but if she skipped the shower it wouldn’t count. She’s just go in, grab some things and leave. Easy.

The elevator ride to her floor was slow, and she had to stop herself from pacing the small space. Fortunately, none of her neighbors seemed to be around, and she hurried to her apartment before anyone saw her and started asking questions.

Tamaska took the hidden spare key out of the lockbox, unlocked the door, and swung it open. She’s just do a grab and dash so—

She gasped. Her hand covered her mouth as she stared, horrified, at the sight.

Her neat apartment was torn apart.

Tamaska stood frozen in the doorway. The words who did this filled her brain, but she knew. Of course, she knew.

Vampires.

Marked Wolf

Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 2

A vampire attack on the Shadow Pack may end in their destruction.

Scared and confused, Tamaska refuses to see or talk to the man who lied about what he was. Kodiak is a wolf shifter and even though her heart breaks at the distance between them, her fear of this supernatural world threatens to break the connection with him.

Tamaska is determined to overcome her fear and steal back the Blood Opal from the vampires so her life can return to normal. She sneaks into the night club in search of the Blood Opal, what she finds is far more terrifying than Kodiak and his pack could ever be.

Kodiak is rejected and disconnected, and loneliness eats away at him threatening to push him towards insanity if he can’t find a way to convince her they are meant to have a future together. He will not allow Tamaska to be so reckless. Worried she will be captured or worse, he ignores his pack responsibilities and risking his status as beta seeks her out.

Caught between the pack he’s sworn to protect and the woman he can’t live without, will Kodiak be able to hold on to everything he holds dear or watch helpless as it’s all torn away?

Fans of Roxie Ray, Kim Richardson, and Sarah Spade will devour Lilliana Rose’s world of unexpected adventure and dark imagination.

Scroll up and click to begin the journey in this protector turn lover and opposites attract series set in a dark, urban fantasy world.

A sound rang out above her, in the direction she’d come from, and made her freeze. Her blood chilled.

Tamaska wasn’t losing her mind, and she wasn’t alone.

Her heart lurched. She didn’t dare to move, let alone risk going back up the stairs. And she couldn’t stay here.

If the staircase led down, maybe there was a way out. But she didn’t want to run. She wanted to get to the balcony area and search for the gem.

Was it worth it?

The softest thump, a footstep on the top of the staircase above her, accelerated her decision. She could only go down and hope there would be a hiding place in the basement—or better still, a way out.

As she raced quickly down the final stairs, a second set of footsteps echoed toward her. Her senses seemed heightened to a level she’d never experienced before.

Since when did my hearing get so sharp?

It didn’t matter. All that mattered was escape. Self-preservation spurred her instincts on, and she rushed down a narrow, dark corridor.

Except it wasn’t as dark as it should be.

Add my eyesight to that list, too.

Soft, orange guide lights pushed back some of the thick, heavy darkness. Yet Tamaska could see the details of the basement area as if it were fully lit.

Her senses screamed. Someone knew she was there. That someone had followed her. She needed to keep moving.

Evenly spaced doors dotted each side of the corridor. Ahead stood a brick wall and an old wooden table with a vase of black roses and a flickering candle. Sensing no way out past the wall, she turned her attention to the doors. Did she dare to open one? The thought of the strange kitchens upstairs chilled her.

She was running out of options.

If she was found, who knew what might happen to her alone in the basement? She would lose the chance to find the Blood Opal, and she wasn’t about to let that happen.

One door stood ajar. Tamaska pushed it open and stepped inside. Immediately, she wished she’d taken her chances and gone back upstairs.

The chilly air in the room hurt her lungs. A strong metallic stench seemed to stain the air, permeating everything.

And in the middle of the room sat a huge, thick table, like an evil thing. It made her want to run as the panic slid in close to her bones, but curiosity drew her closer.

Strange swirl patterns were engraved deeply into the tabletop. The space had to be for something sacrificial. Her gut twisted.

What the fuck goes on here?

She knew.

Red liquid pooled deep in the carved crevices. Was that…blood? Something drew her to it. She reached out, hand shaking, and pressed her fingers against the table.

A jolt went through her, and she snatched her hand away. What was that strange sensation? It wasn’t sharp or burning hot, but more like an energy zap that sent an uncomfortable vibration up her arm. Like a low-level electric shock. It didn’t hurt, but the unpleasantness left her wanting to back away.

Moisture clung to her fingers, and her stomach heaved as she looked. It was definitely blood, fresh enough to still be wet, but congealed. Her mind filled once more with the images of blood drinking.

Coming here was a mistake. I have to go. She turned to step away and bumped into something. And screamed.

Shadow Wolf

Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 1

Kodiak must protect Tamaska against vampires who want her dead.

The leader of the vampires wants to capture Tamaska. She needs someone to protector her against a world she has no idea about. That someone is Kodiak, but she doesn’t trust him.

If Kodiak fails at protecting Tamaska and the vampires kill her, they will cause death and destruction on earth. His alpha disagrees, and forbids him from protecting Tamaska. The pack must be committed to each other against the vampires and not be distracted by a human.

There’s a bond forming between Kodiak and Tamaska and he is compelled to protect her.

Who will he choose, his pack or Tamaska? Or will Tamaska break his heart and risk everything he is trying to protect?

Fans of Twilight, Shadow Hunters, and The Winx Saga will devour Lilliana Rose’s world of unexpected adventure and dark imagination.

Scroll up and click to begin the journey in this protector turn lover and opposites attract series set in a dark, urban fantasy world.

That lust had been there since the moment their eyes had met last night.

Tamaska took another step towards him and splayed her hand on his chest. Kodiak could barely think. Releasing her had taken most of his self-restraint and he wasn’t a man built for such things.

When he wanted, he took.

But she was human and…

Hell. She looked at him like she wanted to rip off his clothes and take him here and now.

Her eyes glittered with carnal lust, like she wanted to strip back all humanity’s constructs and get down to the bare boned honest business of sex.

As the music’s beat built, thrumming with the desire in his veins, the last of his control snapped.

He caught her hand and lifted it, without breaking eye contact. He took two of her fingers into his mouth and sucked on them, letting his tongue slide over them, before biting down. She moaned, that low-throated sound that set him ablaze and made the desire within him combust.

This was inevitable. It was fate.

He released her fingers and drew her in. She sighed and wrapped her arms around his neck, rising on her toes so her mouth was a whisper from him.

His breath caught and he lowered his lips, catching hers. It was a taste, a nibble. She was hot and soft.

A groan broke free from his lips before he kissed her again. This time, she met him, her mouth as needy as his, as savage.

It was like an eternity of lust burst from them. The kiss was a carnal, dark exploration and he couldn’t get enough.

He wanted it all.

Now.

He didn’t give a fuck they were in the vampire club. He didn’t give a damn about the opal.

Right then, the only dangerous thing was not to continue.

He pulled her in hard against him and kissed her once more.

This could cost him his life, and hers.

And he didn’t give a damn.

Lilliana Rose is an Amazon Bestselling author, who writes romance in the subgenres of contemporary and paranormal romance. She enjoys helping characters overcome problems or issues, and the misunderstandings that often plague relationships, to help them fall in love. Whether it’s city heels being replaced with country work boots, or some magic beyond this world, each story shows how love can prevail. She has poetry, middle grade, picture book, novellas, and novels published under various pen names.

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BOOK TOUR & GIVEAWAY: A Cryptic Clue by VIctoria Gilbert #Mystery

A retired librarian gets back to the books—and into a devilish murder case

A Cryptic Clue

A Hunter & Clewe Mystery Book 1

by Victoria Gilbert

Genre: Mystery

A retired librarian gets back to the books—and into a devilish murder case—in acclaimed author Victoria Gilbert’s new series, the perfect literary adventure for fans of Kate Carlisle and Jenn McKinlay.

Sixty-year-old Jane Hunter, forced into early retirement from her job as a university librarian, is seeking a new challenge to keep her spirits up and supplement her meager pension. But as she’s about to discover, a retiree’s life can bring new thrills—and new dangers. Cameron “Cam” Clewe, an eccentric 33-year-old collector, is also seeking something—an archivist to inventory his ever-expanding compendium of rare books and artifacts. Jane’s thrilled to be hired on by Cam and to uncover the secrets of his latest acquisition, a trove of items related to the classic mystery and detective authors. But Jane’s delight is upended when a body is discovered in Cam’s library. The victim, heir to a pharmaceutical fortune, was the last in line of Cam’s failed romances—and now he’s suspect number one. Cam vows to use his intelligence and deductive skills to clear his name—but with a slight case of agoraphobia, rampant anxiety, and limited social skills, he’ll need some help. It comes down to Jane to exonerate her new boss—but is he truly innocent?

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Can you, for those who don’t know you already, tell something about yourself and how you became an author?

I always loved to write, but mostly wrote poetry and short stories when I was younger. I also outlined and started several novels, but never completed them. Life – in the form of work and family – then got in the way and I abandoned writing for many years. Finally, when I was 56, I decided to complete one novel just to say I had achieved that life goal. That book, and its sequel, are still on the shelf, but my third completed novel garnered me an agent and publishing deal. My first book was published when I was 58! Which is why I always say it is never too late.

What is something unique/quirky about you?

I can’t really say that I’m a “country girl” or “city person.” I’ve lived in rural areas, small towns, moderately-sized cities, and very large cities (NYC) and actually enjoy all those lifestyles. I think if I was wealthy, I would have a home in each of those areas and alternate between them!

Tell us something really interesting that’s happened to you!

When I was around ten, my family spent 5 weeks traveling in a station wagon and pop-up tent camper. We crossed the USA from the east coast to the west coast and back again, and had many interesting adventures along the way. One evening we set up our camper beside a lake before a huge rainstorm and woke up to find water lapping the bottom of our camper steps. We also encountered a heat wave in the desert – and didn’t have air conditioning in the car! We had to fill a cooler with ice chips and use those to cool down. But it was an amazing trip and I admire my parents so much for taking a 12 year old, 10 year old, and 6-year old on such an adventure.

Where were you born/grew up at?

I was born in Peoria, Illinois, but don’t remember living there as my family moved to Virginia when I was two. I grew up in Loudoun County, Virginia, which is in the northern part of the state, at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. I actually set my first mystery series – the Blue Ridge Library series – there. Although I created a fictional town, it is based on the small towns I knew from living in that area.

What kind of world ruler would you be?

Probably not a very good one, as I have no desire to rule. I don’t care for politics, really don’t enjoy telling others what to do, and like my alone time too much to be a great ruler.

What do you do to unwind and relax?

Of course I love to read! But I also like watching films and TV shows, walking, and gardening.

 

Describe yourself in 5 words or less!

Intelligent, logical, empathetic, driven, and creative.

Do you have a favorite movie?

I love movies, especially classic and foreign films, so it is impossible for me to pick just one favorite. A few I really enjoy are the 1995 Sense and Sensibility, Babette’s Feast, The Lives of Others, Casablanca, Raiders of the Lost Ark, almost any B&W classic noir film, and most old Hollywood musicals.

Which of your novels can you imagine made into a movie?

I’m not sure any of my books would work as a movie, but I do believe all my mysteries would make wonderful TV shows. So if anyone in the industry is reading this…

 

Raised in a historic small town at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Victoria Gilbert turned her early obsession with books into a dual career as an author and librarian. Now retired, she’s worked as a reference librarian, research librarian, and university library director.

Victoria writes the Blue Ridge Library Mystery series, the Booklover’s B&B Mystery series, and the Hunter and Clewe traditional mystery series for Crooked Lane Books. When not writing or reading, she likes to spend her time watching TV and films, gardening, or traveling. A member of Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and International Thriller Writers, Victoria lives in North Carolina with her husband, son, and two very spoiled cats.

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BOOK TOUR: The Unseelie’s Wallflower by Elisa Rae #LightFantasyRomance

The Unseelie’s Wallflower

Courts in Conflict Book 1

by Elisa Rae

Genre: Light Fantasy Romance

Greyson hides many things from the Unseelie Court when they invade his estate each autumn for the Wild Hunt. During his required appearance as host, he is surprised to find a human among the glittering fae. She can see him even when he is using his stealth magic, which means only one thing—they are soul mates. Can he protect her amidst the swirl of fae politics and a plot against her life?

Lyra has grown up among the fae. She has been trained to be the perfect servant. Then her master brings her to the Unseelie Court event of the year and demands she demonstrate her skills to nobles. With the promise of freedom as a motivator, she willingly agrees. Then she realizes her master’s true plan thanks to the intimidating fae lord hosting the event. Though why he would be invested in her fate is a mystery.

The Unseelie’s Wallflower is a light, fantasy romance novella about a relationship between an Unseelie and a human woman. It features faes, fated mates, and a romance between a noble and a servant, all played out against a backdrop of the peril, politics, and maneuverings of the Unseelie Court.

Greyson

The hot summer air had cooled into autumn in the Great Wild Woods. Spreading north from the edge of human-dominated lands and nestling up against the feet of the Arista peeks where the gargoyles lived in their eyries, this was the region of the fae, of which I was one. Aligned with the Unseelie king, I was bestowed with his favor, probably because my smuggling operations kept him in all the luxury goods he could consume and more. That favor came with a price, though, hosting the annual Wild Hunt at the end of summer.

The guests began arriving at noon, their carriages, horses, and portals filling my front drive with mayhem and chaos as servants, children, and pets crowded for space among the adult fae as they call greetings to each other. My servants directed the guests inside under the lofty roof of my open-sided foyer as even more guests filled the drive once again. I watched the barely organized confusion from the top of the grand stair into the main house. No one approached me, and I liked it that way. The coming week was one to be endured for the greater good. Until the last guest left, I would be on edge. I needed to accept that.

“The king’s attendants have arrived.” Bartle, my majordomo, stepped to my side. A blonde faun, he kept his appearance meticulous, and I appreciated his tactful efficiency. “They presented this list of demands as per usual.” He extended a gilded sheet of thick parchment, which I took.

Silk sheets, perfumed water, unicorn’s milk, solid gold utensils…

“All to be expected.” I handed the list back. “Anything new added since last year?”

“Pomegranate seeds, oranges, and pineapples.” Bartle’s nose wrinkled. “Apparently, he heard about your recent trades with the humans and elves.”

“Or he recalled that I acquired multiple saplings three years ago.”

The Haub family arrived, causing a mild uproar among the clustering fae. As a body, about half of the crowd surged elegantly in the direction of the sprite family as they stepped through their portal. Haub senior, a wizened old sprite, hated me on sight. From the moment he realized that he couldn’t provide what the king wanted and I could, he opposed me at every turn. However, that had recently changed. I hadn’t discovered why as yet, but that didn’t stop me from taking advantage.

“So, you approve the list?” Bartle asked, still standing at my elbow.

“If those are the only changes, then yes, it is approved.”

Bartle bowed and left.

I adjusted the leather gloves covering my hands and shook the edges of my sleeves down over their tops. Now a single inch of skin except my face showed. Gathering my stealth magic, I cloaked. Then, with weary reluctance, I descended the stairs and entered the fray.

Golden light filtered through the turning leaves outside the great expanses of smooth glass in the foyer walls. Arched recesses offered access to the gardens, but most of my guests lingered within the space bound by glass and columns. Designed to meld the gardens, groves, and front drive outside, the great gilt doors with the elegant interior. Marble tile floors, arched ceilings, and eggshell-surfaced columns created the illusion that the room lacked walls. Potted ferns and flowering bushes crowded every nook and clustered about the bases of each column in a vain attempt to decrease the clamor of a multitude of sounds bouncing off the hard surfaces.

And under all the cacophony, the splashing tinkle of the fountains flanking the grand staircase into the house relentlessly added to the pandemonium. I was of the mind to turn them off, but Bartle would be scandalized. Why not show off their engineering?

As I passed through the throng of Unseelie greeting each other, I mentally isolated out different conversations. They varied from gossip, flirting, and chatter to the planning of business negotiations as I passed among the partygoers. Noting who was attempting to speak with whom, I kept moving, relying on my inherent stealth magic to keep out of sight.

Without it, I would’ve been a very noticeable six-and-a-half-foot creature with curly black hair, dusky skin, and gray eyes dressed in all black. When I was uncloaked, most found me intimidating. An impression I tended to use to my advantage. The fact I kept myself aloof and unfailingly kept my appearance impeccable helped as well. Acting as the barely contained beast worked well when dealing with the Unseelie King and fulfilling his excessive tastes in wine, food, and frivolity. Whenever I decided enough was enough, I tapped my inherent intimidating magic and dropped a bit of my façade of culture and control, but this was not the time.

This year’s turn out for my annual gala promised to be the most impressive yet. The inns and rentable rooms for miles around had been sold out for months. Walking through the crowds, I noted almost every Unseelie noble from the king’s court had already arrived. Younglings of multiple species wove through clusters of elegant nymphs, sirens, sprites, goblins, ogres, pixies, and fairies of every size and rank. I began mentally ticking off the attendees from the list of those expected.

Then I noticed her, the singular human. A female, small even for her species, hid among the ferns at the foot of one the massive pillars supporting the soaring ceiling. Dressed simply but adequately, she watched the crowd with wary attention, burrowing deeper into the plants’ accommodating branches whenever a guest wandered near her hiding place.

Curious, I meandered that way. Slipping around the far side of the pillar, I settled in the deepest shadows of the leaves and set my back against the stone. She had chosen a good spot for spying. Most of the foot traffic flowed around this central point, but few of the passersby glanced in our direction. They ignored the greenery that I had ordered placed around the walls and bracketing the windows of my entryway.

“Bored with eavesdropping?” she asked.

I glanced over at her. Fronds framed her features as her bright eyes scanned the mingling crowd. She hadn’t turned my way, but somehow, I was certain she spoke to me. Assessing our surroundings, I noted that no one stood close enough to overhear or be the object of her query.

“Are you speaking to me?” I asked.

“Who else?” She flicked a glance over her shoulder. Blue eyes focusing on my face and the softening of her mouth hinting at a smile left no doubt.

“You see me?” Utter surprise brought a great rush of excitement. No one saw me when I wished to be hidden. Not even my own kind could detect my passing. Yet this slender human, magicless and helpless, could not only see me but didn’t hesitate to speak to me. It could only mean one thing. My breath caught in my chest. She was my soul mate.

“Of course, I see you.” Her mouth deepened into a suppressed smile while hidden laughter brightened her eyes. “You are a bit hard to miss.”

The realization that the day I had equal parts desired and dreaded since reaching my maturity had finally arrived hit me hard. I stiffened as the implications washed over me. She was human, how human I had yet to discover, but her lack of wings, sparkles, horns, or markings hinted strongly of ordinariness. But that couldn’t be. Just the fact she saw me through my shroud of camouflaging magic proved she was anything but ordinary. I took a slight measured step away from her and tucked my gloved hands behind my back. One touch and we would be bound. I couldn’t do that to her, to either of us. I needed time.

“I am sorry if I offended you, Master…” She let the title hang with a tentatively lifted eyebrow. Gone was the hidden laughter from her expression.

“Greyson,” I supplied my surname. I was fae. No fae offered their whole true name. Studying her solemn expression, I already missed her humor. Now she appeared worried. I opened my mouth to assure her that no offense had been taken, but the loud thump of iron boots announced the arrival of a Powrie with his red cap. He had manifested right outside her hiding place, stumbling as he did so in a flurry of loud tapping. The noise brought the nearby lingering guests’ attention around us—well to the Powrie and her.

“Lyra, who are you talking to?” He grabbed her arm. “Come and speak to those I instructed you to. I need more sylvian tears.” The Powrie dragged the woman away, making demands in her ear. The crowd parted to let them through without a word. Once they passed, my guests resumed their conversations as though the whole scene wasn’t worthy of note.

Every part of me protested her going. How dare he touch her so roughly? What was she to him? A wave of possessiveness urged me to pursue, subdue, and demand her attention. With great effort, I resisted the visceral desires that raced through my blood. I was more than my nature, and she was more than just a creature to be claimed. Closing my eyes, I drew my shoulders back. Now wasn’t the time. I had much to accomplish this night that had nothing to do with her, the woman, Lyra.

A reader of fairytales and folklore, Elisa Rae loves a happy ending. Noblebright characters, dastardly villains, and chemistry between characters delight her. When she isn’t writing, she loves to watch superhero movies and literary dramas.

Elisa Rae is the pen name of Rachel Rossano.

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