Wednesday, October 14, 2015

GRAND FINALE BLITZ: When the Right One Comes Along

On tour with Prism Book Tours.


Grand Finale for
When the Right One Comes Along
By Kate James


Did you get to know a little more about K-9 Officer Calen Palmer and his dog, Scout, as well as Trauma Surgeon Jessica Hansen? If you missed any of the posts on this tour, you can go check them out now...


Launch - Intro to the Series
My October 1st release, When the Right One Comes Along, is the first book in my K-9 trilogy. It is the story of trauma surgeon Jessica Hansen and San Diego Police Department search and rescue officer Cal Palmer.



" A sweet story that will warm your heart. A nice change in pace.. "



3) Who/What inspired your characters?

I take inspiration from a variety of sources. For the K-9 trilogy, the inspiration for the K-9 unit members came from real-life police officers who work tirelessly and often at great peril to themselves to protect us and keep our communities safe. Jessica Hansen was partially inspired by a good friend who is a medical doctor. She has an important and unique job.



"I enjoyed the open way Kate wrote this story. She easily explained things and made the book easy to follow and intriguing. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I look forward to the rest of the book series and hopefully she will intermix these characters with new characters."



Cal’s blood ran cold as he watched a ceiling beam tear loose to his right. Still anchored to a column by some rebars, it hurtled toward him like a battering ram.



Writing Pearls - Review
"A cozy romantic read with exuberating characters. Definitely worth the time to read."



Amanda Writes - Review
"Ms. James’ novel draws you in from page one, and leaves you feeling happy and then tormented as the crisis point breaks but eventually she brings her characters together in the most beautiful and deserving way. This is one Harlequin Heartwarming story you should not miss!"



Slice of Life - Review
"This well-written novel depicts the problems and dangers which can occur after an earthquake, as well as rescue operations, and the author also shows much knowledge concerning K-9 dogs. I would recommend When the Right One Comes Along to anyone who is interested in action and romance."



Mythical Books - Excerpt
This time Cal did lose his balance. Landing on his backside, he was catapulted down the inclined rooftop headfirst. The harness he hadn’t fully secured snapped free. He tried to twist around as the edge of the rooftop rushed toward him. He managed to turn enough so that he wasn’t leading with his head when he hit the parapet wall. He lay still for a few moments to catch his breath. His left shoulder screamed but he didn’t think it was broken. He hoped it wasn’t dislocated, either. Nothing else seemed to hurt enough to worry about.



"The characters in the book go through some rough struggles, but they are made stronger by the struggles. The romance is sweet and clean…you know I love that! I really like the theme of the story and I’m looking forward to the other two K-9 books to follow. You will be enchanted by this sweet book! I definitely recommend this to you sweet romance lovers!"



Beck Valley Books - It's All About You Guest Post
I am frequently asked what made me decide to write. There is a multitude of talented authors out there and an ever-growing plethora of wonderful choices for readers in all genres. So why did I decide to leave a successful and enjoyable business career to write? The answer is simple. It's because of you, the reader!



Jessica narrowed her eyes as she glared at the man standing before her, shirtless and leaning heavily on the shoulder of a firefighter. His simple question sounded both gruff and belligerent. Her gaze dropped to the well-muscled chest and arms, before sliding lower and seeing the makeshift tourniquet, understanding why he wasn’t wearing a shirt. “Marcia,” she called, keeping her eyes on the man but a steadying hand on the girl. “Can you please get Mr….?” She looked at the man inquiringly.



"Great characters! I really enjoyed meeting Cal & Scout and can’t wait for the future stories about their K-9 teammates!"



Dixie n Dottie - Review & Excerpt
"I loved Scout and the relationship he and Cal had."

Jessica Hansen looked much as he remembered her from the quake site. But a cleaned-up version. Seeing her in jeans, low-heeled sandals and a tank top made her seem more…approachable. The thing that struck him most was her hair—long, loose and cascading down her back. It seemed so incongruous with the prim and proper doctor he assumed her to be. Gorgeous hair, clearly intelligent and a fondness for dogs and cars. How could a guy not be captivated?



Wishful Endings - Review
"When the Right One Comes Along was a story of redemption as these characters learn to forgive themselves, in grasping the love that is in front of them, and finding family in each other. I'd recommend this one to those readers who enjoy heartfelt romance."



I Am A Reader - Excerpt
But then she looked at Cal, saw the despondency in his eyes. She wanted to help them. She really did. And yet she couldn’t deny that one contributing factor was the fact that she’d be able to see Cal…



“It’s no trouble.” Cal couldn’t remember the last time he’d seen a grown woman blush. Anna certainly never had. He found it unreasonably touching. There was something vulnerable and shy about her right then that appealed to him. “I’d like you to stay,” he added to his own amazement. He wondered if he’d hoped for it all along, since the steak he was marinating was large enough for two healthy appetites.



"This was a great book to settle in with. I loved the characters and I loved the struggle. The chemistry was there between Jessica and Cal- they knew it and I knew it too. The forward progression of this book was good and the characters were solid. I read through this book quickly because I just didn't want to put it down. Yay for a good, clean romance!"



Mel's Shelves - Excerpt
Cal couldn’t explain it, but as he watched the woman and child walking toward him, hand in hand, emotion clogged his throat. He coughed brusquely, blinked a few times and rose from the bench.



This heart-warming Harlequin K-9 Trilogy book 1, When the Right One comes Along, will touch your heart. This story is filled with characters and scenarios that readers will easily relate, comprehending the tragedy and heartache, as well as the joy and love.



Kindle and Me - Review
The story was cute and very believable. I adored the love the father had for his daughter and how Cal also wanted Kayla in his life too! Jessica was nice and encouraging as well.

Read all the book and author info and enter the tour giveaway below...


When the Right One Comes Along (K-9 Trilogy, #1)When the Right One Comes Along
(K-9 Trilogy #1)

by Kate James

Adult Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 293 Pages
October 1st 2015 by Harlequin


Brought together by disaster. Kept together by love.



In the aftermath of a deadly earthquake, it's chaos for trauma surgeon Jessica Hansen. Among the many victims, one patient stands out—San Diego Police K-9 search and rescue officer Cal Palmer.



Cal vows to help Kayla, a child orphaned by the disaster. But he needs Jessica's help. Will their shared concern for Kayla and for Cal's canine partner, Scout, allow them to put aside their personal torments and discover the difference love can make?


Kate James 2.jpg
Kate James spent eight years of her childhood living in foreign countries as her professional parents travelled on business. She lived in four countries and spoke five languages before settling down in Canada again to attend university. After graduating with a degree in civil engineering, she held a variety of positions in the field of real estate development and operations, and ran three substantial organizations. While her writing during this period was mostly business related, including presentations and speeches she delivered both nationally and internationally, her passion is and always has been fiction.



Kate's business and personal experiences enable her to write fiction with a deep, often first-hand knowledge of what she is writing about. This approach makes Kate's stories richer and more vivid.



Kate’s goal is to entertain you with well-written, engaging stories, set in intriguing places and with strong, likeable characters. “I hope my stories bring you pleasure and entertain you. Nothing pleases me more than receiving feedback from people who have chosen to spend their valuable leisure time with one of my books,” notes Kate.



Kate married her husband, Ken, in an elegant, ocean-front wedding on a tropical island. When they are not traveling, they split their time between their properties in southern and central Ontario in Canada.



Tour Giveaway



Grand Prize: Spa Gift Basket and a print copy of When the Right One Comes Along (US/CAN only)


2nd Prize: $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of When the Right One Comes Along (print if US/CAN, ebook
if international)


3 – 3rd Prizes: copy of When the Right One Comes Along(print if US/CAN, ebook if international)



Ends October 16th



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Wednesday, October 7, 2015

Release Day Blitz: Once Upon A Marriage

On tour with Prism Book Tours.


Release Day Blitz for
Once Upon a Marriage
By Tara Taylor Quinn


Intro to Once Upon a Marriage


This is what happens when three college friends decide to buy an old apartment building…

Welcome to the Historic Arapahoe! (If you’ve been here before, welcome back!) Though most of the residents here are elderly, they’re still getting up at five-thirty in the morning to work, they’re still going on romantic dates, changing the insides of their toilets, and protecting those around them. Including the three thirty-one-year-old friends who recently purchased the building so that the elderly, fixed income residents wouldn’t be forced into nursing homes or be put out on the street.

Who’s really taking care of whom remains to be seen. Or maybe, this is life, everyone doing what they can to take care of each other. Marie, one of the three owners, has been taking care of others most of her life. She owns the coffee shop on the first floor of the building and spends her days trying to make life a little easier, a little more pleasant for everyone around her.

There’s a stalker hanging around. And her father, a womanizer who broke up their family but also managed to be a good dad, is struggling. Marie tends to it all. And she’s still lonely. Because, ultimately, she can’t trust.

I think, in today’s world, many of us struggle with trust issues. I also believe that happiness depends on our ability to trust, and that trust is still rewarded. I’m just not sure I can convince Marie of that fact…

Once Upon A Marriage is her story.


— Tara Taylor Quinn


Once Upon a MarriageOnce Upon a Marriage
(The Historic Arapahoe #2)

by Tara Taylor Quinn

Adult Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages
October 1st 2015 by Harlequin Heartwarming



Anyone could be hiding a secret...



Marie Bustamante does not trust or love easily. Growing up with a philandering father and an overprotective mother, she comes by her reservations honestly. So after only three months, how can she be falling for her best friend's bodyguard? This isn't like her at all. But Elliott Tanner is strong, gorgeous and...trustworthy. Honest. At least he seems to be. Of course, some things about him remain a mystery. Protecting the privacy of his clients is Elliott's job. That doesn't mean he's hiding anything from her. Does it?



Also in the Series



Once Upon a Friendship
(The Historic Arapahoe #1)
by Tara Taylor Quinn
Adult Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
July 1st 2015 by Harlequin Heartwarming

They’re a team...not a couple!

Falling for Liam was unthinkable. He and Gabi had been best friends since college, nothing more. And crucially, now Liam was her client and needed her to be focused on his case. Gabi could never risk their friendship — or Liam’s freedom — over these feelings. They could never be a couple, anyway. He was Liam Connelly, the handsome and privileged son of a billionaire. She was Gabrielle Miller, the girl who’d fought her way out of poverty and put herself through law school. They were unlikely friends to begin with. Anything more was impossible. Unless...he felt it, too.



The author of more than 70 original novels, in twenty languages, Tara Taylor Quinn is a USA Today bestseller with over six million copies sold. She is known for delivering deeply emotional and psychologically astute novels of suspense and romance. Tara is a recipient of the Reader’s Choice Award, a five time finalist for the RWA Rita Award, the Reviewer’s Choice Award, the Bookseller’s Best Award and appears frequently on bestseller lists, including #1 placement on Amazon lists. Tara is the past-president of Romance Writers of America and served eight years on that board of directors. She has appeared on national and local TV across the country, including CBS Sunday Morning and is a frequent guest speaker. In her spare time Tara likes to travel, climb Arizona mountains, and inline skate.


Tara is a supporter of the National Domestic Violence Hotline. If you or someone you know might be a victim of domestic violence in the United States, please contact 1-800-799-7233. 



Blitz Giveaway

$10 VISA Gift Card & print copy of Once Upon a Friendship (US only)

2 ebooks of Once Upon a Friendship (INT)
Ends October 7th



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Monday, October 5, 2015

Release Day Blitz: Ward Against Destruction



Ward Against Destruction (Chronicles of a Reluctant Necromancer, #4)
Release Date: 10/05/15
Entangled Teen

Summary from Goodreads:
Ward de’Ath used to the think that nothing could be more terrible than death. Now he realizes
there are worse things. Like his never-ending hunger for blood. Even if he conquers the
unbearable cravings that drive him headlong toward destruction,he’s a wanted man with a bleak
future.

Assassin Celia Carlyle learns she is the only one who can protect Ward from disaster. She loves him–she wants to help him, but no one can tell her how to save him from himself. And the confusing voices in her head scream to let him go.

But Ward's dark trials keep mounting. A malevolent evil is rising in the land, threatening to
unleash horror upon the world. The only way Ward can defeat it, and have the chance to marry
Celia, is by accepting his fate and becoming the one thing he swore he would never become..
Amazon.ca: http://www.amazon.ca/Against-Destruction-Chronicles-Reluctant-Necromancer-ebook/dp/B014CS5P50/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1441776194&sr=1-1&keywords=ward+against+destruction


***Books in this series***




Ward Against Death (Chronicles of a Reluctant Necromancer #1)
by Melanie Card
Release Date: 08/02/11
Entangled Teen
306 pages


Summary from Goodreads:


Twenty-year-old Ward de’Ath expected this to be a simple job—bring a nobleman’s daughter back from the dead for fifteen minutes, let her family say good-bye, and launch his fledgling career as a necromancer. Goddess knows he can’t be a surgeon—the Quayestri already branded him a criminal for trying—so bringing people back from the dead it is.

But when Ward wakes the beautiful Celia Carlyle, he gets more than he bargained for. Insistent that she’s been murdered, Celia begs Ward to keep her alive and help her find justice. By the time she drags him out her bedroom window and into the sewers, Ward can’t bring himself to break his damned physician’s Oath and desert her.

However, nothing is as it seems—including Celia. One second, she’s treating Ward like sewage, the next she’s kissing him. And for a nobleman’s daughter, she sure has a lot of enemies. If he could just convince his heart to give up on the infuriating beauty, he might get out of this alive…










Ward Against Darkness (Chronicles of a Reluctant Necromancer #2)
by Melanie Card
Release Date: 08/27/13
Entangled Teen
352 pages



Summary from Goodreads:


The last thing Ward de'Ath wants is more trouble. On the run from both the law and the criminal underworld, Ward and Celia flee Brawenal City only to stumble into the mansion of a powerful evil necromancer. And when Ward discovers the man possesses a dangerous grimoire, his duty leaves him no choice. He can't allow the necromancer to keep the grimoire.

But the mansion is filled with monsters--human and undead--and Ward has no way of telling who's friend or foe. The only person he can trust is Celia who dominates more of his thoughts and feelings everyday. But there are still laws in the way of anything but friendship. She's still dead and he's still alive . . . for now.








Ward Against Disaster (Chronicles of a Reluctant Necromancer #3)
by Melanie Card
Release Date: 01/19/14
Entangled Teen
276 pages


Summary from Goodreads:

Ward de'Ath should be dead by now. Instead, he’s chasing after a soul-eating creature—that he unleashed— and is bent on stopping her before she slaughters more innocents. Fortunately, Celia Carlyle remains by his side, a nobleman's gorgeous and deadly daughter, who is…well, dead.

Celia claims she’ll champion Ward wherever he goes, even when she thinks his quest is hopeless. He can only hope her pledge comes from her heart, and not because she’s bound to him through his magic.
When they enter Dulthyne, they stumble upon a dark power that threatens the entire town. Ward, with his unreliable necromancy, is determined to help but finds himself ensnared in the lure of white-hot magic…blood magic he struggles to resist. But if Celia’s love is a lie, it might just doom his soul to the dark arts forever.









About the Author


I have always been drawn to story telling. In fact, I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t telling a story in my head or on paper. In grade school, we had journal writing time which I turned into story telling time, weaving tales of magic and adventure that mimicked the fairy tales and myths that I loved to read. It was there, with the help of two very special teachers, that I nurtured this love and started my journey as a writer.
I write fantasy, paranormal romance, and everything in between, seasoned with a good dash of adventure and mystery. Join me on my tales of magic, adventure, and romance.


Author Links:





GIVEAWAY:

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Wednesday, September 30, 2015

GRAND FINALE: Earthman Jack VS The Secret Army

On tour with Prism Book Tours.


Tour Grand Finale for
Earthman Jack vs. The Secret Army
By Matthew Kadish



If you missed any of the fabulous guest posts, interviews, or excerpts for this tour, go back and check them out now!



Launch - Interview



Q: What is the Earthman Jack Space Saga?

My elevator pitch for the series is basically “Harry Potter meets Star Wars.” It’s about a fifteen year old kid from Ohio named Jack who one day suddenly finds himself at the epicenter of an intergalactic conflict between a benevolent Galactic Empire and an army of evil aliens called Deathlords. Jack is a bit of a slacker and an underachiever, but through the course of his adventure, he learns to be the hero the universe needs. Essentially, the Earthman Jack Space Saga is my love-letter to all the sci-fi I grew up geeking out over.


Coffee Books & Art - Excerpt

And though one would think Jack would be safe now that he’s entering into Princess Glorianna’s realm, nothing could be further from the truth. For new threats are lurking, just waiting to strike, and some of the threats cannot be fought as easily as a Deathlord Dark Soldier. (And let’s face it, those aren’t the easiest adversaries to begin with.)


Mythical Books - The Top 5 Ways To Deal With Harry Potter Withdrawal



It’s a bittersweet experience when one finishes reading a book series that is absolutely amazing. In a way, you’re glad, because you got to experience the entire story. But in another way, you’re sad, because now what the heck are you supposed to read? I know this was the case when I finished the Harry Potter series. But don’t worry, I made it through the withdrawal of Wogwarts and all the magical adventures of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, and you can too! Here are the top 5 ways you can deal with Harry Potter withdrawal… 


Teatime and Books - The Top 5 Ways You Know You’re A YA Fan



Let’s face it. Young Adult fiction can be like a drug. At first, you think its innocent enough. Then, the cravings begin. Soon, you’re mainlining at Barnes and Noble, tearing through the YA shelves like they’re going out of style. How do you know if you’ve taken your love of all things YA too far? Here are some of the most common signs that you’re a Young Adult superfan…


Colorimetry - 5 Things That Make A Sci-Fi Novel Worth Reading



Science Fiction is a lot like pizza. Even when it’s bad, it can still be enjoyable. But there are a few things which make some science fiction truly great. As a sci-fi author myself, these are the top 5 things I look for when reading science fiction and fantasy novels, which lets me know that what I’m reading is going to be great…


Letters from Annie (Douglass) Lima - 6 Star Trek Books All Sci-Fi Fans Should Read...



If you’re a Trekkie, then chances are you’ve picked up a Star Trek-themed book before. But the barrier to entry to some of these novels may be rather large if you aren’t a fan of the TV show. The good news is that some Star Trek novels are so good, they can appeal to any fan of sci-fi, even if they don’t like Star Trek! Here are the top 5 Star Trek books sci-fi fans should check out if they’re looking for a good read.


Katie's Clean Book Collection - Top 9 Heroes Of Sci-Fi & Fantasy Young Adult Fiction



I like my heroes in Young Adult fiction like I like my coffee – strong, sweet, and full of caffeine. (Okay, maybe not full of caffeine, but you get my drift.) And when it comes to science fiction and fantasy, the literary world has no shortage of great teenage heroes. Who are the best, you should ask? Well, you’re in luck, because I’m going to share with you the top 9 heroes of sci-fi and fantasy Young Adult fiction.


Christy's Cozy Corners - 5 Ways To Prepare For The Next Star Wars Movie



It’s no secret that new Star Wars movies are on the horizon, and fans are rabid about getting to see them. But waiting for them to hit theaters is enough to make even the Dalai Lama lose patience. So what’s a superfan to do in the meantime? Well, here are five things you can do right now to tide you over until the next Star Wars film hits the big screen.


Wishful Endings - Excerpt


     Anna bit her lip nervously. Something she always did that was so cute, it practically made Jack’s heart melt. “I don’t know how to say this,” Anna said. “I’ve been trying to figure out a way to bring it up, but… it never seemed like the right time.”
     “Hey, whatever it is, you can tell me,” said Jack. “No time like the present!”
     Anna sighed. “Look, Jack…” she said. “You’re a great guy…”
     Uh-oh, thought Jack, as alarm bells suddenly started ringing in his ears.


MichaelSciFan - Interview



Is there a message you want readers to get from the book, other than that Deathlords are evil jerks?


Well, obviously Deathlords being evil jerks is the primary message I want readers to walk away with. I think it’s important to illustrate just how big of jerks a race of aliens bent on killing everything is. Who cares about messages of personal responsibility, coming of age, friendship, loyalty, and the power of human belief and spirituality? Aliens are total jerks. Message, sent!


deal sharing aunt - Interview



4. What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

That the unicorn is the national animal of Scotland. I just so happened to see a Facebook meme about it while creating my novel, and according to Wikipedia, it’s totally true. HUGE surprise.

Earthman Jack vs. The Secret Army (The Earthman Jack Space Saga, #2)Earthman Jack vs. The Secret Army
(The Earthman Jack Space Saga #2)

by Matthew Kadish

YA Sci-Fi

Paperback & ebook, 663 Pages
September 15th 2015 by Twelve Oaks Media




After his heroic battle against the Deathlords on the Ghost Planet, Jack Finnegan is looking forward to arriving at Omnicron Prime, the capitol planet of the Galactic Regalus Empire -the largest and most advanced civilization in the universe.



Things are looking bright for Jack. He has his unconventional group of friends, his mystical spaceship, and the girl of his dreams -Princess Anna. Not to mention a secret mission that could save Earth and everyone he cares about.



But things get complicated when he arrives at Omnicron. Not only is Jack uncomfortable being thrust into the spotlight for his courageous actions to save the universe, but he soon finds life in the Empire isn't everything he'd dreamed it would be.



His friends abandon him to pursue their own interests. Greedy and cunning politicians conspire to steal his spaceship. Even his relationship with Anna is strained now that she's gone from being "the girl next door" to the most powerful woman in the universe.



But beneath all that lies a new and terrifying threat from the Deathlords. A threat that grows in secret, slowly spreading throughout the Regalus Empire like a plague, and it threatens to destroy from within the only thing powerful enough to stop the Deathlords and their malicious rampage throughout the galaxy -the Empire itself.



Worst of all -Jack is the only one who knows about this new threat, and no one will believe his warnings.



Suddenly, the Empire is no longer safe for Jack and his friends. Even the people they've come to rely on the most can no longer be trusted. As those he's sworn to protect turn against him, how can Jack hope to save the day?



Fighting the Deathlords was one thing. Fighting the "good guys" is quite another. Will Jack be able to find the strength to be the hero the universe needs?



Or will he finally be defeated by this Secret Army?


Amazon - Book Depository



Also in the Series


Earthman Jack vs. the Ghost Planet (The Earthman Jack Space Saga, #1)Earthman Jack vs. The Ghost Planet
(The Earthman Jack Space Saga #1)
by Matthew Kadish
YA Sci-Fi
Paperback & ebook, 680 Pages
July 4th 2013 by Twelve Oaks Media


Jack Finnegan only has to worry about dealing with school bullies, suffering through detention with his homeroom teacher, and getting noticed by the girl of his dreams... at least until an army of evil aliens invade Earth. Suddenly, this teenage slacker finds himself at the center of a galaxy-spanning conflict - where the lives of everyone on the planet are in jeopardy, soldiers use Quantum Physics to become superheroes, and the enemy uses some mysterious form of magic to make themselves practically unstoppable.

The secret to ending the conflict and saving the universe may lie in a powerful ancient spaceship, which it seems can only be flown by Earthmen. Now, Jack and a rag-tag group of allies must overcome impossible odds, defeat an unkillable enemy, rescue the princess of the galaxy, and save the universe from a threat more terrifying than any it has ever faced.

Can this underachiever rise to the occasion and become the hero Earth needs? The fate of all life in the galaxy may rest in his hands.




Author Profile Headshot

Matthew Kadish is an independent author and world-recognized evil genius. When he isn't writing or being evil, he enjoys relaxing at the beach and videos of puppies. Much like Scottish cuisine, most of his literary works have been based on dares. He currently lives in Las Vegas and always bets on black, because Westley Snipes has yet to steer him wrong in life. He is the most talented author ever. His mother tells him so every day.





Tour Giveaway


$20 Amazon Gift Card (INT)

3 copies of Earthman Jack vs. The Secret Army (Print to US entrants, ebook to International)
Ends October 2nd



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Tuesday, September 29, 2015

When the Right one Comes Along by Kate James: An Interview


On tour with Prism Book Tours.

When the Right One Comes Along (K-9 Trilogy, #1)
When the Right One Comes Along
(K-9 Trilogy #1)
by Kate James
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 293 Pages
October 1st 2015 by Harlequin

Brought together by disaster. Kept together by love.
In the aftermath of a deadly earthquake, it's chaos for trauma surgeon Jessica Hansen. Among the many victims, one patient stands out—San Diego Police K-9 search and rescue officer Cal Palmer.
Cal vows to help Kayla, a child orphaned by the disaster. But he needs Jessica's help. Will their shared concern for Kayla and for Cal's canine partner, Scout, allow them to put aside their personal torments and discover the difference love can make?

Interview With Kate!
Interview with Natalie from The Written Adventure

Thank you for hosting me on your blog, Natalie.


1) What is your favorite thing about writing?

That’s a great question! Nothing makes me happier than hearing from a reader who enjoyed one of my books. To be able to entertain people, and to know that they’ve chosen to spend some of their limited and valuable leisure time reading one of my books is a great honor.

In terms of the writing process itself, I like the fact that I can control every facet of what happens, something we have a limited ability to do in real life! In this manner, hopefully I deliver a story that is both emotionally and intellectually satisfying for readers.


2) What is the hardest part about writing?

The hardest part is saying goodbye to my characters. That is one of the reason I decided to write a trilogy this time: to prolong my time with them!


3) Who/What inspired your characters?

I take inspiration from a variety of sources. For the K-9 trilogy, the inspiration for the K-9 unit members came from real-life police officers who work tirelessly and often at great peril to themselves to protect us and keep our communities safe. Jessica Hansen was partially inspired by a good friend who is a medical doctor. She has an important and unique job.


4) Where did you get the idea for the plot?

The plots for the three books in the K-9 trilogy evolved from the specializations of the police service dogs and their handlers. Once I decided on the specializations to be search and rescue, narcotics detection and explosives detection, and set the stories in San Diego, the plots seemed self-evident to me.


5) What helps you get through editing and revising?

I love editing and revising! This probably has a lot to do with the fact that I am privileged to work with Paula Eykelhof. With each manuscript and every stage of the process I learn something new from her. She truly challenges me to create the very best stories I can. It doesn’t hurt that she has a terrific sense of humor! (A large mug of tea also helps.)


6) Which author(s) have inspired you the most?

In terms of the women’s fiction/romance genre, I have tremendous respect for Nora Roberts, Heather Graham and Brenda Novak. Having met Heather and Brenda, I also admire them for being exceptionally gracious and supportive people.


Thank you, again, for the opportunity to visit your blog, Natalie.


It was great having you! Thanks for answering my questions. I'm going to have to learn to love editing and revising too, it's nice that you have someone so awesome to work with. Saying goodbye is hard for me too, whether it's in my own writing or the books I read. Thanks again for giving us your insight!



Kate James 2.jpg
Kate James spent eight years of her childhood living in foreign countries as her professional parents travelled on business. She lived in four countries and spoke five languages before settling down in Canada again to attend university. After graduating with a degree in civil engineering, she held a variety of positions in the field of real estate development and operations, and ran three substantial organizations. While her writing during this period was mostly business related, including presentations and speeches she delivered both nationally and internationally, her passion is and always has been fiction.
Kate's business and personal experiences enable her to write fiction with a deep, often first-hand knowledge of what she is writing about. This approach makes Kate's stories richer and more vivid.
Kate’s goal is to entertain you with well-written, engaging stories, set in intriguing places and with strong, likeable characters. “I hope my stories bring you pleasure and entertain you. Nothing pleases me more than receiving feedback from people who have chosen to spend their valuable leisure time with one of my books,” notes Kate.
Kate married her husband, Ken, in an elegant, ocean-front wedding on a tropical island. When they are not traveling, they split their time between their properties in southern and central Ontario in Canada.

Tour Schedule
Tour Giveaway
Grand Prize: Spa Gift Basket and a print copy of When the Right One Comes Along (US/CAN only)
2nd Prize: $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of When the Right One Comes Along (print if US/CAN, ebook if international)
3 – 3rd Prizes: copy of When the Right One Comes Along(print if US/CAN, ebook if international)
Ends October 16th

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Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Shelter Valley Stories: GRAND FINALE

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.


Book Tour Grand Finale for
Shelter Valley Stories
By Tara Taylor Quinn


If you missed any of these stops, go back and get to know Shelter Valley and the stories found there...



Katie's Clean Book Collection - Shelter Valley Guest Post


I want to introduce you to Shelter Valley. It’s a fictitious town in Arizona, but one that has stood the test of time. While the scenery is spectacular and the weather divine, the backbone of Shelter Valley, what keeps people coming back for, are her people. In Shelter Valley they believe in second chances. If you are kind to others, you’re welcome to stop by. And if they take you in, you’ll have friends and champions for life.


Mythical Books - My Sister, Myself Guest Post



On this particular visit to Shelter Valley, you’re going to meet Tory Evans. She’s only twenty-six but circumstances, experience and a sharp intelligence make her more aware of some things than she’d like to be. You’ll get to know Tory from the very beginning of this story—but only you and one other person in Shelter Valley know that she’s Tory Evans; everyone else believes she’s her older sister, Christine. . .


Mel's Shelves - Becca's Baby Excerpt



The stick had turned blue. Another mistake in a day that seemed to be full of them. The stupid thing wasn’t supposed to turn blue.

At forty-two, Rebecca Parsons had firmly believed she was on her way into early menopause. A welcome relief from the monthly inconvenience she’d endured for thirty years. For many, many of those months, the inconvenience had been accompanied by bitter disappointment – not pregnant – until she’d eventually given up hope.


Teatime and Books - White Picket Fences Guest Post


Now, here are two interesting people. They’re both attractive, successful, honest and hardworking—and they’re both living at home at a time when they should be starting families. Because underneath all the smiles they have scars no one else can see. They touched me, I think, because they’re like a lot of us who put on our smiles to face the world when deep inside there’s pain most people never know about. . .


deal sharing aunt - My Sister, Myself Excerpt



“This is incredible,” Phyllis said. She took hold of Tory’s shoulders, turning Tory to face her.

“They think you’re dead, that you’ve been cremated.”

Tory nodded wearily, her eyes overflowing with tears. “The death certificate I have is my own.”


underneath the covers - White Picket Fences Excerpt



Maybe she needed a fence.

Yeah.

Looking around the perimeter of her front yard, noticing how it ran right off to the sidewalk without so much as a by-your-leave, she nodded. That was it. When she was growing up, she’d always had this image of a home with a picket fence. Probably got it from watching too many reruns of The Donna Reed Show or Leave It to Beaver.

Heaving a sigh of relief, Randi slid off her boulder and went back inside. Thank goodness that was settled. She probably didn’t have time this break to install a fence, which was fine with her; she could go to Phoenix and play as good a round of golf as she was still capable of playing.

But come spring break, she’d get this done.

All her life needed was a white picket fence.


The Written Adventure - Friendship in Shelter Valley Guest Post



And if you want to be friends…I’ve started a Friendship board on Pinterest. It’s an open board. Anyone can follow to post. The only caveat – it’s only about friendship. No sales. No causes – no matter how worthy. It’s just a feel good place for a friendship fix. We post personal pictures of us with our friends, pictures of celebrity friends, and lots and lots of friendship quotes. Sometimes we post good morning hugs. We’ve got over 1200 pinners – adding an average of 300 a month – and thousands of pins. That’s a lot of friendship. We’d love to have you join us at: https://www.pinterest.com/tarataylorquinn/friendship/.


Zerina Blossom's Books - Shelter Valley Stories Guest Post



I think women are the strongest creatures on earth. It takes a lot more internal strength to open yourself up to nurturing those with whom you come in contact – because of the risk of being hurt – than it does to plow over anything in your path. Or to disregard everyone in your way. And women, overall, are nurturers.


Stormy Nights Reviewing & Bloggin' - Review



Holy smokes what an amazing book!!! Not what I expected, but yet wasn't too sure what to expect. On the edge page turner no doubt!


Harlie's Books - Review



I highly recommend My Sister, Myself. Powerful, poignant and beautifully written. Slow building romance can be a downer for some readers but with Ben and Christine, it makes sense. In fact, the sweetest of it just reminds me what romance is all about. The friendship, the courtship and then the declaration.


For a Limited Time! Grab all three books on sale!


Becca's BabyBecca's Baby
(Shelter Valley Stories, #1)
by Tara Taylor Quinn
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 297 pages
February 15th 2002 by Harlequin Books

Meet Will and Becca Parsons, who ve lived in Shelter Valley, Arizona, all their lives. Shelter Valley means everything to them. Home. Family. Security. Love. Everything that matters is right there in that town.

Will and Becca have been married for 20 years. It s a good marriage a contented marriage marred by only one disappointment: their inability to have children. But their dream of a baby has gradually been replaced by other interests, other goals.

In any case, Will and Becca are in their 40s now.

It s too late for babies.

Except it s not. Because Becca s pregnant. And that reality throws their carefully ordered lives into complete disarray.

A baby after all these years.




My Sister, Myself
(Shelter Valley Stories, #2)
by Tara Taylor Quinn
Adult Contemporary Romance, Suspense
Paperback & ebook, 304 pages
May 31st 2002 by Harlequin Books

She's not who she says she is! Tory Evans is living her sister's life. Christine is dead, murdered by Tory's vengeful ex-husband, and now - for her own survival - Tory has taken on Christine's identity. Her name, her job, her new home in Shelter Valley, Arizona.

He's reinventing his life. Ben Sanders is a divorced father who's come to Shelter Valley to resume the education that was interrupted years before. He's intrigued by one of his professors, the woman he knows as Christine Evans. She's smart, she's beautiful - and she's hiding something. She's also off-limits.

Despite that, despite the secrecy and the danger, Tory and Ben are drawn to each other. Second chances really do exist. Especially in a place like Shelter Valley...



White Picket Fences

White Picket Fences
(Shelter Valley Stories, #3)
by Tara Taylor Quinn
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 298 pages
June 21st 2002 by Harlequin Books

What's missing in Miranda Parson's life? Nothing, she thinks--until she meets handsome, caring veterinarian Zack Foster and discovers an intense desire that shakes her safe and familiar world. Trouble is, a heart-weary Zack prefers his romances short and sweet and isn't looking for commitment to any woman. Yet the longing that ignited between them couldn't be resisted for long. But for true love there needs to be true risk--so will Zack and Miranda's quiet lives ever be the same again...?


The author of more than 70 original novels, in twenty languages, Tara Taylor Quinn is a USA Today bestseller with over six million copies sold. She is known for delivering deeply emotional and psychologically astute novels of suspense and romance. Tara is a recipient of the Reader’s Choice Award, a five time finalist for the RWA Rita Award, the Reviewer’s Choice Award, the Bookseller’s Best Award and appears frequently on bestseller lists, including #1 placement on Amazon lists. Tara is the past-president of Romance Writers of America and served eight years on that board of directors. She has appeared on national and local TV across the country, including CBS Sunday Morning and is a frequent guest speaker. In her spare time Tara likes to travel, climb Arizona mountains, and inline skate.


Tara is a supporter of the National Domestic Violence Hotline. If you or someone you know might be a victim of domestic violence in the United States, please contact 1-800-799-7233. 


Tour Giveaway



GRAND PRIZE (to one winner):  An eBook set of books 5 through 14 of the Shelter Valley Stories (Just Around the Corner, Born In the Valley, Sheriff of Shelter Valley, Nothing Sacred, Somebody’s Baby, Sophie’s Secret, Full Contact, It’s Never Too Late, Second Time’s the Charm, and The Moment of Truth) - INT
Print books of the last three
books in the 
Shelter Valley Stories (The Shelter Valley Scholarship books: It’s Never Too Late, Second Time’s the Charm, and The Moment of Truth) - US only to one winner
e-book set of Born in the Valley and Sheriff of Shelter Valley – INT to one winner
Ends September 25th


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