Kristie Cook's Blog, page 14

Author friend R.K. Ryals has a new release coming soon and today we get to see the beautiful cover! Another gorgeous one by Regina Wamba at Mae I Design and Photography (who did the cover for The Space Between). Without further ado...


NA ContemporaryBy R.K. Ryals
Synopsis:
In Mississippi, there's a legend about a Singing River, a tragic love story that ended with an entire Indian tribe singing a death chant as they marched stoically into the Pascagoula River to die ...
At eighteen, Haven Ambrose isn't just a high school graduate. In her head, she's an aspiring writer, a traveler, a chef, a slayer of injustice, an astronomer, an archaeologist, and the love child of a famous, rich musician. But reality is harsher. Reality is overdue bills, a crumbling trailer, an absent father, an old addiction, and a hot, crushing summer that may end in disappointment.
For twenty year-old River Brayden, life seems good, but appearances can be deceiving. The oldest son of a wealthy family, he has finished his first year at Harvard to return home for the summer only to discover his younger brother headed down an unforgiving road.
They will be drawn together by a song. For during the late summer, they say the Pascagoula death chant can still be heard near the Singing River. Its call is haunting, its chant a testament of love and sacrifice. It calls to some ... beckoning.
Add The Singing River To Your TBR List on Goodreads - http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18132842-the-singing-river
Excerpt:
I stepped toward her. “You have a way of making people relate to you.”
She snorted. “I doubt that.”
I was in front of her now, my face peering down into hers. “Really, you do. A few hours of knowing you feels like days.”
“Sounds tiresome,” she teased.
“It’s a gift,” I countered.
There were sudden lines in her forehead, a troubled look in her eye. “Some might call it a curse,” she murmured. “By the end of this trip, you’ll want me gone.”
It was my turn to frown, my gaze studying her face. She had green eyes so dark they could be mistaken for brown and lashes so long they almost touched her brows. True, she was more willowy than curvy, but she was beautiful in an understated, elegant kind of way. The faint freckles on the bridge of her nose drove me crazy.
“Why do you think that?” I asked.
There was something stark and open about her eyes when she answered, “Because I am better at being abandoned than I am at keeping people.”


About The Author:
R. K. Ryals is a scatterbrained mother of three whose passion is reading whatever she can get her hands on. She makes her home in Mississippi with her husband, three daughters, a Shitzsu named Tinkerbell, and a coffeepot she couldn't live without.
Stalker Links:Website - http://rkryals.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/RKRyals Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/R.K.-Ryals Twitter - https://twitter.com/RKRyals Goodreads - http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5265741.R_K_Ryals

The Space Between is on sale for less than a buck! We've been running a special promo this week to finally get this book on the bestsellers lists. And it's working! So far, The Space Between has already broken the B&N Top 100 list, something none of my books have been able to do until now. So yay! Thank you so much to all of you, my readers, for helping to make this happen! You guys really are the BEST!

To show you my appreciation, I'm paying it forward with a donation and a giveaway:

1. I'll be donating $200 to The National Domestic Violence Hotline, a cause near and dear to my heart.
2. I'll be giving away a $25 gift card to B&N.
I'd really love to see this book break the Amazon Top 100, as well. Promise did this in October 2011, but it's become harder and harder to get there again. With your help, though, I know we can do it. If The Space Between hits both the B&N Top 100 AND the Amazon Top 100, this is how I'll pay it forward:

1. Donate $500 to The Hotline.
2. Give away an iPad Mini! (Because you can get ALL the ereader apps on an iPad.)
What do you do to enter? Simply share the word about The Space Between sale and fill out the Rafflecopter below. There is initially one prize of a $25 gift card to B&N, but if The Space Between meets our goal of the Amazon Top 100, there will be BOTH prizes.

The Space Between

New Adult Paranormal Romance by bestselling author Kristie Cook ** Mature Content ** Recommended for ages 16+ due to sexual situations and language

First installment of the Book of Phoenix series. Consistently rated in the top 25 New Adult & College Romance books on Amazon.com!

When Life Falls to Pieces, Answers Lie in the Space Between

Leni Drago can't make a smart decision on her own, according to her mother anyway--the few times she's tried resulted in disaster. When her uncle sends her on a dance tour in Italy to find her real self, she returns to an empty home and any evidence of his existence wiped out. Then things get even stranger, like the mysterious appearances of Jeric Winters--inked, pierced and a hit-'em-and-quit-'em type. He's one decision that should be easy for Leni. Or is he?

Jeric doesn't do girlfriends. Unless they're someone else's. He left the fighting cage and modeling for a reason, and girls who want more than a night of fun are distractions he doesn't need. Especially when they come with as much baggage as Leni carries. But he can't shake the gut feeling that he needs to know her. All of her.

To discover the truth behind their connection and their ties to a journal from 1989, they must face painful secrets from their pasts. And they must do so quickly because their own existences are falling to pieces.

This first part of The Book of Phoenix takes you on a heart-wrenching ride as you discover the answers that lie in The Space Between.

Buy links:

http://www.amazon.com/Space-Between-Book-Phoenix-ebook/dp/B00C3OQO2O/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-space-between-kristie-cook/1114959553

http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/The-Space-Between/book-DvZWUyXtBk2zKiiaU6X4ag/page1.html

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-space-between/id628066630?mt=11


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My author friend Nely Cab is re-releasing Creatura and it has a gorgeous new cover! Are you ready to see it? Be sure to enter the giveaway below, too!



COMING AUGUST 6, 2013
Title: CreaturaAuthor: Nely CabPaperback: 346 pagesPublisher: Nely CabLanguage: EnglishISBN-10: 1489589554ISBN-13: 978-1489589552This Title is Available for Pre-order on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Creatura-Nely-Cab/dp/1489589554/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1373941055&sr=8-3&keywords=CREATURA+NELY+CABIsis can control her dreams. Or she could—until recently. The creature in her nightmares has been haunting her for months. As if being dumped wasn’t bad enough, now she dreads going to sleep. She decides to confront the creature and win back some of her peace; only, she finds that he’s not a monster and he’s not a dream.
A sacrifice for love, a shocking discovery and a jealous ex-boyfriend blur the lines between reality and dreams, making it hard to tell who the real monsters are.
Who would’ve known…that sometimes love is lethal?
AUTHOR BIO:Nely Cab was born on December 9, 1974, in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico. She has lived and resided in South Texas most of her life. In 2001, the author relocated to Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, where she dedicated time to the study of culinary arts and the art of oil painting.
After her return to the U.S., she resumed her employment in banking and in the following year transitioned to the field of Social Work. Later, Nely took up writing as a hobby and produced her first novel entitled "Creatura".
Last year, the rights to "Creatura" were sold to a leading Young Adult publisher in a foreign country, where it has just recently been released.
Today, Nely Cab writes from the comfort of her home in South Texas, where she lives with her husband and son. Currently, Nely is working on the second installment in her debut series "Creatura".

LINKSWebsite:                     www.nelycab.comFB Book Page:            www.facebook.com/Creatura.by.NelyCabFB Author Page:        www.facebook.com/NelyCabTwitter:                      www.twitter.com/nelycabGoodreads:                 www.goodreads.com/nelycabBlog:                            www.nelycab.blogspot.comGoogle+:                     https://plus.google.com/115804598442656662617/postsAmazon Page:           http://www.amazon.com/Nely-Cab/e/B0056QMZKQ/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1369523349&sr=8-1
Enter to win a signed ARC and more!

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Wrath, Soul Savers Book 5, is getting closer and closer to being ready for your eyeballs! I seriously can't wait for you to read it ... and I can't wait to be done with it. It's the hardest book I've had to write yet, and I want it to be as epic as everyone is hoping for. *grin* I think I'll be able to give a release date - along with some other news - soon.
For now, how about a tease?
*****SPOILER ALERT!!!!*****If you haven't finished Power, DO NOT READ THIS. You've been warned.
“Do I need to remind you of your priorities?” Mom asked, her voice curt.
I closed my eyes. “We’re putting our team together and getting the colony settled. We’ll be taking off by tonight, I hope.”
“And where do you plan on going?” Mom asked.
“Um . . . north?” Maybe if she gave her blessing, Charlotte wouldn’t insist on going south.
“Why would you do that?” she asked, although I could tell she already knew the answer. She’d obviously been keeping her sense of truth focused on my actions. But how could she be so cold-hearted? “Alexis, there are people who need you—”
“Dorian needs me.”
“Honey, there are thousands of people’s lives on the line. Their souls are at risk if you don’t do what you’re meant to do.”
“How could I forget? Nobody will let me. But I won’t abandon Dorian. I won’t let this go.”
“I understand. I lived with that fear throughout your childhood. But you have a duty.”
“Why can’t someone else do it? What did you do before me?”
“Everyone else who can convert is already out there. Except you. And now Char.”
I sighed as guilt poked me in the side. “I just need a little time, Mom. Let me go after Dorian, get him back, and then I’ll do whatever the Amadis want me to do.”
“I really wish I could, honey. Believe me. But these are your people. They look up to you. They need to see that you can lead. That you will do what needs to be done for them and all we stand for. A waver like this from our primary creed will create a lot of distrust that you may never be able to rebuild.”
“And abandoning my own son won’t? How can they trust me to stay true to them if I can’t do so for my own child?”
“You know how they feel about Dorian. About any Amadis son. And choosing one soul over all others—especially one that we know has no hope in the end—”
My temper flared. “There is always hope! And I won’t give up on him, Mom. I can’t believe you and Rina gave up on Noah so easily. He was her son. Your twin. How couldyou?”

Are you ready for a tease from Wrath, Book 5 in the Soul Savers Series? Yeah, I thought so. *snicker* Before you ask, though, I think we have an "official" release date, but I can't share it yet. Stay tuned. It won't be too long from now, I promise.

So, that's your tease.

Haha! Just kidding! Here's a bit from Wrath

(****SPOILER ALERT!!!**** If you haven't finished Power, DO NOT READ THIS.)

He was gone. Really gone.
My little boy, my baby, the light of my life. Gone.
No matter how hard I tried, how far I pushed the boundaries of my mind to feel across the sea of mind signatures, I couldn’t find his. Of course I couldn’t. But I knew where I could.
My fingers curled into Sasha’s white and gray striped fur, trying to soothe her though I had no soothing vibes within me. I sat on my knees in the bedroom part of the safe house suite where I had left Dorian, where I thought he’d be safe when I couldn’t be there to protect him myself. The lykora’s head lay in my lap, her silver blood staining the blue-and-cream Oriental rug around her and coagulating on her back where one of her wings had been severed. Who could be so cruel? Stupid question. I knew that answer, too. Heavy arms hung over my shoulders, arms that usually gave me comfort but now trembled with sobs.
“Can you heal her?” I asked, my voice sounding rough and distant. When I received no answer, I asked again, each word discrete and deliberate. “Tristan, can you heal her?”
He lifted his head from my shoulder, but Blossom answered first.
“She’s an Angelic being, Alexis,” she said from behind me. “She’ll heal on her own.”
“Good,” I said. I picked up my dagger, wiped her blood off of it and onto my leather pants, put it back where it belonged on my hip and flashed.
Tampa. Gainesville. Tallahassee. Rural Alabama and Mississippi. From here, I followed the path Vanessa and I had taken only two days before, barely seeing the landscape of each place before flashing to the next one. Tristan finally caught up to me outside of Kansas City.
He wrapped his arms around me and held me tight against his chest, preventing me from flashing again.“Where are you going?” he asked, his lovely voice distorted with the two primary emotions roiling within me—anger and grief. Mostly anger. The kind that didn’t dissipate but built with each passing moment.
“To Hades,” I answered flatly.
“Alone?”
“Unless you’re coming with me, yes.”
“Alexis, we can’t just waltz into Hades—”
“Not waltz. Storm.” The raging storm that was building inside me.
“Still. We can’t—”
“I guess that’s your answer then.” I pushed a spark of electricity into him and used the moment of surprise to flip my way out of his hold. Then I flashed.
Again and again.
But my power was waning. After flashing my way halfway across the world already once in the last two days, fighting my way out of Hades and escaping Lucas the sperm donor, I hadn’t been able to truly regenerate. I had to pause longer between each flash, but each time I did, I envisioned what I would do when I got to Hades. The throats I would slash. The Demons I would fry to a crisp. Lucas’s life I would take, but only after slicing the smirk off his face and carving his eyeballs out with my silver dagger and stuffing them into his lipless mouth.

The thoughts should have terrified me, but they only pushed me on.

Indie BookFest 2013 is an all day long event (starting at 8:00 AM and ending at 5:00 PM) celebrating Indie Authors and Artists and their freedom of expression. Join some of your favorite Indie Authors for a day filled with book signings, sessions, and lots of good food and great fun! You won't want to miss the sessions throughout the day, where several panelists will be speaking on a variety of topics relevant to writing, publishing, promoting your books, and all things indie.

Indie BookFest 2013 will be held at the Buena Vista Palace in Buena Vista, FL, on August 3rd, 2013 ... just minutes from all the Disney and Universal parks! Everyone attending Indie BookFest 2013 will have access to special room rates while staying at the Buena Vista Palace. Turn this one day event into a fun little getaway and indulge in the sunshine and parks while you are visiting the Orlando area.
Register for Indie BookFest 2013Sessions, refreshments, morning gourmet coffee bar, lunch, & much more? = $20
Fun hanging out with a great group of your favorite Indie Authors? = PRICELESS!  
Not only is Indie BookFest going to be a day filled with a lot of fun and fabulousness, but it will also be a time to come together and help a local organization, A Gift For Teaching. We will be raffling off an AMAZING prize to one lucky winner, so be sure to come prepared to purchase a few tickets, rub a lucky 8 ball, and by doing so, help out local teachers and children in the process!

** Be sure to bring in some school supplies to be entered to win another wonderful prize ... everyone who donates will receive some special Indie BookFest swag!** 

Learn more about the 2013 charity Indie BookFest will be featuring HERE. We hope to see you all on August 3rd in Orlando, it is sure to be a great time!  Indie Bookfest is proud to announce that along with our stellar line up of over 45 indie authors such as: Shelly Crane, Kristie Cook, Tabatha Vargo, Amy Miles, Michelle Madow, Shanora Q. Williams, Quinn Loftis, C.A. Kunz, Tiffany King, G.P. Ching, Rachael Wade, Tawdra Kandle, Sarah Ross, and MANY OTHERS, that Isaac Marion (Author of Warm Bodies) will be a special speaker at the event! 





Be sure to stop by the blog and show your Indie pride and love of books by picking up one of these AWESOME tees! All proceeds go to finance the event! (Click on the pictures below to go to the blog to purchase!)


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 Visit these blog in the blog hop!                    

 A Momless Mom
A readers point of view
Adventures of Frugal Mom 
Amid Summer Night Dreams
Andi's Book Reviews
Andi's Young Adult Books
Asteria's Blog 
Author Tawdra Kandle 
Beckstar Reviews
Black Words-White Pages
Books to Light Your Fire 
Books, Beauty and Bodacious 
Books, Brownies and Barkers 
Cover Bound
Cu's Ebook Giveaways 
Dina Rae's Write Stuff 
Frankie Blooding's Bookshelf 
Heather Allen 
I escape into books
Identity Discovery 
If the Book Fits 
Jamie Loeak
Kathleen Valentine's Blog
Kats Reads
Life with Lesley 
Literary Sweet
Little Read Riding Hood 
Living, Learning, and Loving Life 
Lynda's Random Ramblings
My Home Away From Home 
Niki's book Corner
old things r new 
Out There Reviews & Stuff
Paranormal book club
Passionate Book Divas
Pink Fluffy Hearts: Diary of a Coffee Addict 
Pretty Opinionated 
Readers Confession
Reality Bites! Let's Get Lost! 
Sizzle and Swoon 
Taking Time for Mommy 
Teracia's book hoarding problem 
The Official Site of Inger Iversen 
The Winey Reader
Theresa M Jones 
Unexpected Destinies
Unputdownable Books
Wine Relaxation And MY Kindle
Writing on the Wall 

Check out these Indie BookFest 2013 author interviews:
Amy Miles

1. What is one thing about you that your fans don’t know about you?  I’m an introvert and as such I am a nervous wreck before and during each book signing that I do.  I say “um” a LOT to try to deal with the nerves.  Also…I fan girl just like everyone else.  I’m always sneaking away from my booth to meet other authors.2. What has been your favorite fan moment? That would have to be when the bank manager of our local branch came rushing out to meet me in the car.  That was surreal.  Not just that she wanted to take a pic with me, while totally having the worst hair day of the year, but that someone in my area had read and loved my books.  Best day ever!3. Is there one indie author who has helped you about?  What was their advice?   The best part about being an indie author is the love and support you find from other authors.  I have developed so many lasting friendships with some truly amazing people over the past year. The best advice I have been given, and now pass on to anyone who will listen, is to not sweat the reviews.  The good ones make you think you are better than you really are, and the bad ones shake your confidence.  Glean what you can, hone your craft and let the negative reviews wash off your back.  They don’t define you as an author unless you let them.4. At the bookstore, what is your favorite section to visit?  I write what I love to read, so you know I’m spending some quality time in the teen section.  I am a diehard ya fantasy fan.  I love paranormal anything.  Sci-fi?  Bring it on!  Romance?  Action?  Yeah, I’ll take a double helping of those please!5. Where do you come up with the ideas for your books? Ideas are everywhere.  In movies, books, dream, songs, etc.  The question isn’t really where they come from, but what do you do with them?  I keep a dream journal under my bed and if you were to drop by my house at 2am (totally creepy, by the way!) you would find me perched on my toilet, frantically writing down ideas under the bathroom light.  I also have a notepad app on my iphone, a small notebook in my purse, in my car, in my desk, etc.  Having enough ideas to write a book is never my problem.  It’s having the time to work on all of them.
Andrea Heltsley 1. What author has inspired you the most on your journey?Nathaniel Hawethorne.  I read Young Goodman Brown and did a paper on him in college.  I fell in love with his writing and the story.  I loved the descriptiveness of that particular story.2.  What’s your go-to songs to get the creative juices flowing?I will put on my Shakira playlist.  I have almost every English and Spanish song she’s recorded.3.  Who has been your best cheerleader?My dad has been.  He helped read my stuff when no one else really got involved.4.  At the bookstore, what is your favorite section to visit?I love the YA section.  The covers are always awesome and I just love YA.5.  Do you have a writing ritual?I have to have music playing and a candle burning when I write. Peggy Sue Martinez 1. How long did it take you to write Contingency?
It took me two months from start to finish to write the first draft of Contingency.

2. What are the last five books you've read?Mercy Blade by Faith Hunter, Death's Rival by Faith Hunter, Blood Trade by Faith Hunter, Taking on the Dead by Annie Walls, The Breeders by Katie French.3. Do you have a book trailer? 
4. Who has been your best cheerleader?My husband has always been my number one cheerleader in everything.5. What would be your advice to yourself before publishing your book?Write. Don't stop, even when all the doubts begin and you think everything you've written is crap. Keep writing. When you're done writing, prepare to butcher your writing, do several rewrites, and then sew it all back together again. I'm a firm believer that the true magic of the writing process happens during editing and rewrites.
Raine Thomas 1. How long did it take you to write For Everly?
  It took me six weeks to write For Everly. That’s the shortest amount of time it’s ever taken me to write a novel. It just flowed!2. If you had one superpower, what would it be? 
 I would want the ability to manipulate time. Since I work three jobs and have a family, I never have time to read. I miss reading!3.     Do you have a book trailer? 
I sure do!

4. Were you an exceptional English student in school?  
 I was. In fact, I majored in English with a focus in Creative Writing (graduating magna cum laude). Ironically, I didn’t realize I wanted to be an author until I was in my thirties.5. What has been your favorite “fan” moment?  
 I was floored when a fan reached out to me and said she intended to dress up like one of my characters (Olivia from Central) for Halloween. That really made me feel like I’d made the “big time!’
Adam Kunz
1.  Where did you come up with the idea for your books?I got the idea for One Tiny Secret from many years of reading R.L. Stine, Stephen King, Agatha Christie Christopher Pike, Carolyn Keene, Franklin W. Dixon, and V.C. Andrews, and from watching many, many, horror/thriller films. When I decided to sit down and write my first standalone novel (after writing three with my mom under the penname C.A. Kunz) I knew that it had to be a thrilling mystery with a dash of romance thrown in for good measure. Also, it absolutely had to take place around Halloween (my favorite holiday). I really wanted to craft a twisty-turny storyline that would have reader’s second guessing themselves when it came time to pick “whodunit”.2. Do you have a certain process you do to get the creative juices flowing?I know this is going to sound backwards from a lot of writers, but when I start a new book, and need to get the creative juices flowing, I immediately attack the back book blurb and try to get the whole idea for the novel down to just a few paragraphs. Then I write down the bios for each character to get them all out of my head and onto paper. The next step of my process is to create a skeletal outline, expanding on the back book blurb that I worked on earlier. Then the last step before I begin to actually write is to draw up how I envision the cover for the book to look. I keep this drawing by me while I write as a visual stimulant for my writing. I find that this process helps a ton when it comes to actually writing the book, and has worked for me for quite some time now.  3. How long did it take you to write One Tiny Secret?From start to finish it took me about three months to write One Tiny Secret. I wrote the first three chapters in about a week or so, and then took a month break to focus on the day job. Then I committed all of my time after that to writing, and finished from the third chapter on in about a month and a half.4. What author has inspired you the most on your journey?Wow, there are literally too many to name, but here are a few that I’ve been inspired by since I was a kid, and continue to still love today: J.K. Rowling, R.L. Stine, Stephen King, Agatha Christie Christopher Pike, Carolyn Keene, Franklin W. Dixon, and V.C. Andrews.5. What do your order at your favorite coffee shop?Okay, so I have to admit that I’m kind of obsessed with coffee. This is even in my author bio, so you know it has to be true, hahaha! And when I go to Starbucks, Panera, Dunkin Donuts, or pretty much any other coffee shop, I tend to order the seasonal drink. Pumpkin spice lattes are my favorite, but coming in a close second is anything caramel.
Mandie Stevens

1.  Where did you come up with the idea for your books?
I got the idea for The Edge of Eden when I was perusing pre-made book covers on Once Upon a Time Covers Facebook page.  When I came across the cover fell in love and I went back to it multiple times over the next week before finally decided that it was meant for me. I was working on another project and pulled off of it. The story about an alchemist and the world she lived in poured out of me. Anya has become one of my favorite characters to write about. 2.  What do your order at your favorite coffee shop? 
Always a caramel macchiato, the only difference is if it's hot or iced.
  
3. Is there one Indie author who has helped you out? What was their advice?   There has actually been a group of authors who have helped me a lot but if I have to choose only one it would be Liz Schulte. She is simply amazing and has a website http://thestorymavens.com/ which offers writing advice. The best advice has been to finish. You can't do anything else until you have a manuscript.4.  What’s your go-to songs to get the creative juices flowing? 
It depends on what I'm writing but right now it has been Gin Wigmore, Imagine Dragons, and a lot of Awolnation.5.   If you had one super power what would it be?
The ability to write super quickly. Maybe then I could get all of the ideas for books out of my head before I get more!
Devyn Dawson 1. What is one thing about you that your fans don’t know? 
 I am hopelessly addicted to McDonald’s vanilla cones.  I’m not a fan of their food, but I do like cones and tea.

2.  What do you look forward to the most at Indie Bookfest 2013?I am really excited to meet some authors who have been my online ‘friends’ for a while, and to get up with some old fans.3.  What has been your favorite ‘fan’ moment?I was at the opening night of Breaking Dawn part 1 and someone was yelling my name out loud across the crowded lobby.  The girl even asked if I wanted to sit with her and her friends.  That was awesome.4.  If you had one super power what would it be?I’d have the ability to heal the sick.5.  At the bookstore, what is your favorite section to visit?I go to the Teen section first, and then the bargain books :)
Tawdra Kandle

1. What character was your favorite to write? Why?Easy! Nell was my favorite. She speaks loudly, and she is so much fun. She was only supposed to be in the first book, and then she was supposed to disappear. And then one night, in the middle of writing the second book BREATHLESS, Tasmyn had a dream, and it was Nell. It was one of the scariest scenes I had ever written--so much so that I freaked myself out. Shortly after that, Nell told me more of her story, and it turned out that she was in all four books. . .and then also needed her own. I am so excited to write her book! It is called UNDENIABLE and will be the second book in the Serendipity Duet2. What is the story behind your title and cover? I am not the type of writer who comes up with a cover and/or title before I write the story. So I didn't have a title for FEARLESS until I was more than halfway through it. I just called it Tasmyn. Then one night I was leaving a restaurant, thinking about a particular scene. . .about how Michael makes Tasmyn feel. . .and a song from the (then brand-new) Taylor Swift album came on the radio. The whole idea of the line about the first kiss was so evocative of Tasmyn and Michael's first kiss, and the title captured one of the main themes of the series, which is Tasmyn moving from a place of fear and hiding to confidence and power. As for the cover. . .I was not a cover person when I first indie published. I happily am surrounded by people who are wise and talented. I wanted a sense of Tasmyn being tossed into a world  far outside her experience to date, and I wanted the magic there, too. My youngest daughter took several photographs of a small town near us, and the cover artist was able to use the picture in the background. I LOVE this cover!!3. What’s your go-to songs to get the creative juices flowing? I am a song slut, I'm afraid. My most frequent go-to artists are probably Blue October, Matt Nathanson and Christina Perri.4. What do you look forward to the most at Indie Bookfest 2013? Writing can be somewhat lonely. I love any chance to hang out with other authors, meet new friends and talk books and writing. It's going to be a blast!5. Who has been your best cheerleader? All of my family has been extremely supportive from day one, but my youngest daughter has made my writing life possible. She takes over all household chores and cooking when I am on deadline, gives me ideas, feedback, takes photos and proofreads. . she is my cheerleader all the time and I am so grateful!
CHRISTINA MOBLEY
1.  What has been your favorite ‘fan’ moment?My favorite ‘fan’ moment came just a few days ago. I received my first fan letter in the mail.  It was from a fifth grader who had read both books. It made me realize how far the book is starting to reach.2.  Do you have a writing ritual? My ritual is crazy. I usually squeeze some time in ever few days after the kids are asleep. I turn up the music, read back a few pages, and everything starts to flow.  My favorite writing accessory is caffeine and my big comfortable chair.3.   A character from your book comes to life, who would it be?That’s a hard one. I think it would have to be Thomas. He’s the southern warrior every girl could want. I’d like to bring the main character, Ava to life too, but I’m sure some huge catastrophe would follow. LOL4.  Where you an exceptional English student in school?No. Honestly, even eight years ago I would not have dreamt that I would one day be an Author. I think for me, the story came and I had to find a way to put it on paper.  I never imagined I would fall in love with the writing process. 5.  If you had one super power what would it be?Time Travel. I would love to be able to go back in time or make the day just a little longer.
TONI SINNS 1. Who has been you biggest cheerleader?Probably my cohort, partner in crime, and the reason I hear voices in my head to begin with Shannon Morton (author of Tempted by Evil book 1 of The Light and Shadow Trilogy). My running partner and I spend many an evening pounding the pavement and harping about the characters in our heads, and what the may are or may not be sharing with us at the moment.2. Who has been your best cheerleader? Definitely without a doubt my Husband. It doesn't matter what I say or want to do or talk about trying to make happen he is right beside me telling me to do it and that we will find a way to make sure it gets done. After that would be my mom.3. Is there one Indie author who has helped you out? What was their advice? There has been multiple actually. My two biggest help with advice or suggestion have been Karina Gioertz, and MCV Egan. Another couple who are always so sweet and supportive are Joan Lane and Paulette Mahurin. And lately Eileen Register has helped me out a bunch too.4. What is one thing about you that your fans don’t know? Well that is really hard to think of. I am not very good with keeping myself hidden. Most of my fans know I have stories in multiple genres coming out over the next few years, most of my fans know I'm the owner of Turning The Pages Magazine, most of my fans know that I am not only a writer and reader but I am also a huge crafter and video game nerd, and most know the fun facts like I'm married, have 2 dogs 3 guinea pigs, live in FL. Blah blah blah. I guess something that many don't know about me is how crazy shy, skittish, and unsociable I really am. I can talk to you every day all day on the computer but face to face or on the phone I get nervous and freak out lol.5. How long did it take you to write "I've Got You Covered"?Well to be honest the whole idea behind the series has been written, tweaked, rewritten, stopped, restarted, for I'm thinking it is going on 5 or 6 years now. But the last rewrite which is what you get in book one only took about 6 months to write down and say this is how it is going to be.
JOCELYN STOVER
1. If you had 1 super power what would it be?Fortunately for me I already have a killer super power, I’m a redhead. My temper is flash fire rage that levels everything and everyone in the surrounding vicinity. Despite what many think I do have a soul and most certainly am not from the devil. However, given my incendiary nature I can see how many people may have gotten confused.  2. What is one thing about you that your fans don’t know?The first person to post on Facebook about the return of Pumpkin Spice Lattes in the fall goes on my shit list. I hate anything that reminders me winter is real and for whatever reason that stupid drink is the start of a chain reaction wherein everyone is in a frenzy to embrace the change of season and destroy my dreams of eternal sunshine.  3. What are the last five books you’ve read?Finally after months of writing I took a break and devoured Amy Bartol’s Premonition series, Michael Siemsen’s A Warm Place to Call Home, and Tarryn Fisher’s The Opportunist and Dirty Red. I loved them all.4. How long did it take you to write Out of Reach?It took me six months to write Out of Reach. Being my debut novel I have no idea if that’s fast or slow. What I can say is I wish I had more time to dedicate to writing.
QUINN LOFTIS 1.  Where you an exceptional English student in school?LMBO, no really that's my answer2.  You’re stranded at the beach for the weekend - you can take two books with you, one is an Indie book and the other is ‘mainstream’ - which two are they? Alpha and Omega by Patricia BriggsOpal Jennifer L Armentrout3.  What has been your favorite ‘fan’ moment?Had a book signing in Texas with the amazing Heather Self and met to amazing teens who just chatted my ear up for an hour, and they were awesome. Talking to them made my characters come alive and it got me all excited to go write some more.4.  What do you look forward to the most at Indie Bookfest 2013?Meeting all these authors face to face. I'm soooo going to have fan girls moments, repeatedly.5.  At the bookstore, what is your favorite section to visit?Typically the teen section, but I also like the dystopian/scifi section as well.
KRISTIE COOK
1.  What is one thing about you that your fans don’t know?I really don't like feet. I think they're disgusting! If you really want to gross me out, just put a dirty foot near me. Yuk!2.  If you had one super power what would it be?I would love the ability to stop time. Not to reverse it, like a time-turner because I think that could be too dangerously tempting. But to just stop time for a bit—let everyone else relax under my personal ‘pause’ button—so that I can add more hours to my day to write and do my mundane responsibilities. Then I’d just hit my ‘play’ button and be able to hang out and have fun!3.  Would you prefer going to the park for a relaxing picnic or are you an amusement park rollercoaster person?Can I do both? Seriously, I’m a bit of an adrenaline junky and love amusement parks, motorcycles, and even hope to get my pilot’s license one day. But with that being said I also love taking a step back and just sitting still and watching people—especially in places like a park or beach. It’s times like that where I come up with some of my favorite ideas for scenes and characters. Besides, picnic food is awesome!4.  Do you have a book trailer?  Yes, and I love to share it!
5.  What has been your favorite ‘fan’ moment?This April my publisher and I went to London for the London Book Fair. We were able to get a signing at alocal indie bookstore called Treadwell’s.  That day I had the chance to meet my European “Crew” a group of seven of my biggest supporters and cheerleaders who came from locations throughout England-- and even the Netherlands and Estonia just to meet us and to meet each other. It was such an amazing time to realize that my stories had facilitated these wonderful friendships.

Heather Allen

1.  What character was your favorite to write? I have found that I love writing from the male point of view. Crazy? Yes! I loved writing from James’ perspective in the second book – Barely Breathing.  But in the final book- forever Breathing Ever and Jack are my favorite characters. I think each book has been a journey in itself.2.  If you had one super power what would it be?If I could have one superpower it would be to travel through time. This is the most dangerous one right? Alter events and change time…I choose this one though because I have no patience. I want to know things as soon as I can. Waiting in anticipation is good but knowing facts to make the best decisions is better!3.  What author has inspired you the most on your journey?I am an avid reader. I will just about read anything, romance, horror, mystery, YA, NA… But I accidentally stumbled upon the Indie world because of one author. I wrote Just Breathe over the course of a year but didn’t know what I would do once it was finished. While trying to go the traditional route, I picked up a book by Abbi Glines and devoured it. I found later that she was self-published and it just felt right for me.4.  Do you have a book trailer?  LinkJust Breathe – the first book in the Trilogy - Book Trailer5.  What’s your go-to songs to get the creative juices flowing? Each book is inspired by different songs and artists. I absolutely love alternative music but some books warrant other music. I just go with whatever inspires me for each book. As I write- if an inspiring song comes on, I save it and add it to the playlist. A little teaser – my next book which will be a NA is inspired by Blink 182.
CANDACE KNOEBEL
1.  Where did you come up with the idea for your books?I had previously thought of the idea back in 2007, but never tried to sit down and write. Probably because I didn’t think I could. It came back to me in 2009 after I finished a series that left me feeling empty when complete. I didn’t want to read anything else for awhile and for some reason, the idea popped back up and I figured I would write some of it down. At that point in time I had no idea that it would shape into a novel, thusly changing my goals in life.2.  What character was your favorite to write?  Why?I’d have to be partial and go with Aurora-the main character. She’s feisty, courageous, hard-headed, kind…everything I’d want to read in a heroine. Her journey to self-discovery and control is one that I find encouraging.3.  If you had one super power what would it be?I would have to choose the ability to fly. It would make getting places a lot easier!4.  What would be your advice to yourself before you published your book?I would tell myself to set up my author platform first. It's better to branch out to your peers and learn about them and how everything works before you dive in under your head.5.  What’s your go-to songs to get the creative juices flowing?I have more go-to artists than just a particular song. Thirty Seconds to Mars always gets me pumped and ready to write. I also enjoy M83 and most any indie alternative artist. It helps me zone out and think.
CHELSEA CAMERON


1. Do you have a writing ritual?I always have to have music on when I'm writing. I can't STAND silence (it freaks me out), so I always have loud music going. I write a lot at a local cafe, so I have to make sure I have my caffeinated beverage of choice, some water and am sitting at my favorite table.2. What do your order at your favorite coffee shop?My favorite thing to get is the Dirty Vanilla Chai. It's a vanilla chai with an espresso shot. That really gets the writing juices flowing :)3. What is the story behind your title and cover?The title, Deeper We Fall, wasn't the original title. I knew I wanted to use the word "deeper" somehow. So I looked around at other book titles and then I found a line of poetry on google and that was it. Plus, no one else had it. The cover was done by Sarah Hansen at Okay Creations. I told her I wanted to have the hands reaching out, and she helped me choose the image, but the rest was all her. When I saw it the first time, I was completely in love.4. What are the last five books you’ve read?No Attachments by Tiffany King, Catching Liam by Sophia Bleu, On The Island by Tracy Garvis-Graves, Point of Retreat and Slammed by Colleen Hoover. I'm on a contemporary kick lately.5. What is one thing about you that your fans don’t know?I'm crazy short. Only five feet tall. Someone once said that she pictured me as tall and willowy and it was one of the nicest things anyone's ever said to me.
Heather Allen 
1. What character was your favorite to write?
I have found that I love writing from the male point of view. Crazy? Yes! I loved writing from James’ perspective in the second book – Barely Breathing. But in the final book- forever Breathing Ever and Jack are my favorite characters. I think each book has been a journey in itself.

2. If you had one super power what would it be?
If I could have one superpower it would be to travel through time. This is the most dangerous one right? Alter events and change time…I choose this one though because I have no patience. I want to know things as soon as I can. Waiting in anticipation is good but knowing facts to make the best decisions is better!

3. What author has inspired you the most on your journey?
I am an avid reader. I will just about read anything, romance, horror, mystery, YA, NA… But I accidentally stumbled upon the Indie world because of one author. I wrote Just Breathe over the course of a year but didn’t know what I would do once it was finished. While trying to go the traditional route, I picked up a book by Abbi Glines and devoured it. I found later that she was self-published and it just felt right for me.

4. Do you have a book trailer? Link Just Breathe – the first book in the Trilogy - Book Trailer 






5. What’s your go-to songs to get the creative juices flowing?
Each book is inspired by different songs and artists. I absolutely love alternative music but some books warrant other music. I just go with whatever inspires me for each book. As I write- if an inspiring song comes on, I save it and add it to the playlist. A little teaser – my next book which will be a NA is inspired by Blink 182

Well, we are done this year with the NA Crush Tourney. Tristan lost his match yesterday, but you all put up an amazing fight. Abbi Glines herself called you "fierce" and said Tristan definitely made his mark. The numbers were pretty spectacular.

Our match had over 11,370 votes. None of the other matches had over 5,000. Tristan had 22% of the vote in the end, which is about 2,500! Besides Rush, his opponent, only one of the other crushes competing yesterday had more votes (and it wasn't the #1 seed). From about 8 a.m. EST yesterday morning on, Tristan brought in more of the votes, gaining from 13% to 22%. Pretty damn spectacular in my book.

You all showed up big and loud. People took notice (see that note up there about Abbi - NYT bestseller and totally awesome Abbi Glines!!! - saying something?!). These little books I wrote caught some attention. Readers have added them to their TBR lists. Promise downloads are way up.

And that's what the tourney is really about - a way for readers to discover new-to-them books and for authors to reach out to new readers. So I call the NA Crush Tourney a huge success!

Thank you from the farthest depths of my heart to the sweet and talented Lisa, Tristan's advocate, who worked tirelessly to spread the word. I'm forever indebted. And many, many thanks to everyone who supported Tristan with their votes, by promoting the tourney, encouraging others to vote, sharing memes and links, and the countless other things you did throughout the day. You are really the BEST. FANS. EVER!

I thought about writing the wedding scene from Tristan's POV to share with you anyway, although he didn't win the tourney. But you know what? There are going to be other opportunities and if I did that - probably one of the best scenes ever - what would I have to dangle in front of your noses next time? *wink*

Seriously, I really think the best way to reward you is to get Wrath out as soon as possible. So rather than take the time to write that scene for Tristan, I'm going to use it to work on this book. I'll be going dark quite a bit over the next couple of weeks. There's a very important blog hop coming up on Friday that I hope you'll participate in - you could win an iPad!!!! But other than that and maybe some Teaser Tuesdays *grin*, I won't be here much. Hang in there with me. Wrath will be done and in your hands soon!

In the meantime, let's all show our support to the rockin' authors at NAAlley.com for putting on this amazing tourney and to the authors who created the sexy beasts. Be sure to vote for all those amazing boyfriends still in the NA Crush Tourney. Don't know who they are? Well - read the books! Fall in love! Tristan won't mind...as long as you always come back to him.

My blog post schedule got a little screwed up today (thanks for that, Blogger), so sorry for the late hour of this post. But just in case you didn't get to see the awesomeness of Lisa, Tristan's advocate for the NA Crush Tourney, and some hilarious and devoted fans of Kristie's Crew, I wanted to share Lisa's fantabulous post she prepared for the tourney. Thank you so much, Lisa, for all you've done! (And if you haven't voted yet, it's not too late! Voting is open until midnight tonight.)

Lisa's advocate post:



Hi everyone! As I've mentioned a few times.. I'm the NA Crush Tourney Advocate for Tristan Knight from the Soul Saver Series. The voting for TRISTAN'S SECOND ROUND HAS JUST STARTED!!!! Thanks to everyone who voted in the first round, I'm going to ask each of you again to cast a vote for the Tourney underdog ! I can't do this alone, we're asking for your help in votes!! Let's help push Tristan on into round THREE!!!

Here's my advocate post from the first round, in case you haven't seen it. Take a look and then click the link at the end of the page to VOTE FOR TRISTAN TODAY!!!

A bit about me - I read as much as I can, I swoon over book boys often and I try my best to let everyone know when I've found a book, character and author they shouldn't miss! Besides reading (Strange to say that, right?) itís all about family, friends, and probably too much TV and movies, but enough about me, how about we get down to why Iím here today?
I was beyond excited to have been chosen as advocate for one of my FAVORITE lead male characters Tristan Knight from the Soul Saver Series by author Kristie Cook!! For those who know who he is, scroll on down to the bottom of this post and hit the VOTE FOR TRISTAN button. And those of you who havenít found this amazing character yet, read on, you have NO idea what you've been missing.

How about some info to give you a good picture of the man himself? "6'3", panty-melting body harnessing every power his creators could give him, he's the most dangerous creature on earth. And he'll literally give you his heart. What more could you ask for in a book boyfriend?" I know right?
Some physical features to help round out this beautiful warrior ñ
Sandy brown hair, hazel eyes with a wide band of emerald and gold sparkles.

"It wasn't right for a guy to be so incredibly attractive. Besides how tall he stoodótowering at least a foot over my five-twoóI noticed his hazel eyes first. They pulled me into their staggering beauty, with a wide ring of emerald green on the outside of the irises and brown around the pupils with gold specks that seemed to . . . sparkle. They were fringed with such long, dark lashes that it was unfair they were on a guy. His facial features were flawlessóa square jaw, full lips and a golden suntanóbetter than any movie star or model. Sandy brown hair, longer on top and streaked by the sun, topped off his perfection. And then he smiled magnificently and the gold flecks in his eyes sparkled brighter, like when the sun hits gold flakes in a mining pan." - (Promise)
He's not all brawn, but he has brains, too. He speaks 7 languages, is a math guru and an amazing artist - he brings those together with his interest in architecture. He even designed his own home. 
ìIím Tristan . . . in case you didn't catch it.î - (Promise)

I have proof that he's  beautiful on the inside too.

Heís fiercely protective of those he cares about and loves ñ
ìIíll fight for you until the end of my days.î - (Promise)
Heís sexy and flirtatious ñ
ìI showed you mine. Will you show me yours?î - (Promise)
Heís utterly romantic ñ
"Without your love, without you in my life, I am nothing but darkness.î ñ (Promise)
He knows how to love as fierce as he fights ñ
"I will take care of you, honor and protect you, for as long as I live, into eternity. I lay down my life for you, Alexis, my friend and my love. Today I give to you, me.î ñ (Promise)
Prepare to swoon ladies -

ìI couldn't wait for people to see you in that dress. Because you are with me. Forever.î He leaned closer, his lips tickling my ear. ìAt least let me enjoy it now, because I will have you out of that dress soon enough.î - (Promise)
The thing about this ultimate alpha male is that with all the amazing things about him, he also a motorcycle riding bad boy that lurks just underneath the surface. Tender when he needs to be to all who are in need and watch out for his temper to all who hurt anyone in need or who can't defend themselves.

What more could any person want when it comes to a swoon-able book boy? Well, thereís more so keep reading.
Tristan was created to be the perfect warrior . Heís survived more than most could, heís changed and he has literally cut out a part of his heart to give to the one that he loves.
Itís his loyalty, commitment, love, strength, inside and out that gives the x factor of book crush characters.

Now, donít just take my word for it, check out the video below for some of his long time fans -


See! I told you guys!

But wait... there's still MORE about Tristan that I have to tell you about AND SHOW YOU!!!

Tristan can be a bit on the dark and mysterious side. Watching the Trailer for Promise, the first book in the Soul Saver Series (Pssst! The eBook is free on ALL platforms right now!) you'll be able to find out more about him and the beginning of his journey. Take a look, I mean wow... SEXY!!!


These are just some of the things I love about Tristan. And I hope after reading this post, watching the videos that you'll vote for him so he makes it onto the second round!!!

And WHEN he makes it into ROUND THREE... we'll ALL get some more to swoon about! Check out what we'll win, when HE WINS! Right from Kristie herself -

"For each round he wins, Kristie has some special scenes written from Tristan's POV, and if he wins the whole thing ñ she'll let Tristan tell the story of their wedding night."

And here's some parting words from the man himself....

ìWell . . . I didn't get to say a proper good-bye and I couldn't sleep without this.î He bent over and brushed his lips across mine. Then he smiled and winked. I stared at him, dazed. ìOkay, better. I can sleep now. Good night.î (Promise)
>>>CLICK HERE TO VOTE FOR TRISTAN AT NA ALLEY!!!<<<
Links to find out more about Tristan Knight, Kristie Cook and the Soul Savers Series:

Website/Author Blog | Kristie's Facebook | Tristan's Facebook | Kristie's Twitter | Tristan's Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads

Last week you all really pulled it out and led Tristan to an amazing win in the NA Crush Tourney! He's fighting another round as we speak and he could really use your help.


This week he's up against the male character of an extremely popular series - it's been on the NYT Bestsellers lists for months. Seeded 20 of 20, Tristan is the underdog (and he doesn't know how to handle it, being his first time). So let's show the world what this "underdog" can do! You can vote on multiple devices, and any help you can get from friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, social media contacts, etc., is greatly appreciated! If he wins, you get more presents! *grin*
Even if you don't know what the heck this is, you can just click the link below, scroll to the bottom and click Tristan's name to vote. It's easy and only takes a minute. Thank you!
Here's the link:>> http://www.naalley.com/2013/07/match-7-rush-4-vs-tristan-20.html <<Voting is open until 11:59 p.m. EST tonight (7/2/2013)
When you're done, please feel free to share the graphics, tweet using the hashtags #NACrushTourney and #KnightRiders, and post on Facebook. You can also forward this email. Maybe someone you know will vote, too - or even pick up a new-to-them book to read.

Holy wow! With an incredible number of votes on both sides, Tristan won his first match in the NA Crush Tourney ! Hugely! You guys are the BEST. FANS. EVER. The UK and the rest of Europe and then Australia kicked us off with a ginormous (as Dorian would say) lead before the US even woke up, and then the US brought it home. A worldwide effort! How freakin' cool is that?!

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!
Next week Tristan takes on #4 seed Rush from Fallen Too Far by Abbi Glines. At #20 (last) seed and going up against a NYT bestseller, Tristan is the major underdog. But I have no doubt you all will give Rush a run for his money! If you want to get more involved, follow this link for information on Team #KnightRiders: http://alifeboundbybooks.blogspot.com/2013/06/cover-teaser-book-five-in-soul-saver.html

For now, Tristan and I want to show our appreciation for this win, as promised. Here's a special scene, written from his point-of-view, to say "thank you." Many readers have said they'd like to know what Tristan was going through all that time he was gone between Promise and Purpose. Well, here's a small glimpse. Enjoy!

***WARNING: SPOILER ALERT If you haven't read Promise and Purpose, you probably don't want to read this. It spoils A. LOT.
I stood in the center of the round cavern, my gaze locked on the wall in front of me where shadows and lights danced. Hearths filled with colorful flames circled the room and the Ancients’ throne-like chairs sat in front of them. Red eyes glowed from the dark hooded figures standing near the fires or sitting in the chairs. Those same eyes once appraised me. Those same demons once revered me as their star—their prizefighter. Now they glared at me with malice.Wearing old, ripped-up cargo pants, combat boots and nothing else, I stood with my feet shoulder-width apart, my hands clasped behind my back, my eyes forward. But rather than throwing my shoulders back and jutting my chin up, I let them droop slightly. The way my pants hung low on my hips, I knew it looked like I’d lost weight. Of course, that was impossible and they knew that, but the effect was still there. I even flinched when Lucas spoke.“Have you had a change of mind yet, Seth?” he demanded in the Ancients’ old tongue never used outside this chamber. His clear-blue eyes lasered into me, as if he could force my mind to alter to his will. I kept my face stone-still. Continued glaring at the wall. I’d given up on forcing them to call me Tristan years ago. “Ready to return to where you truly belong?”“Always,” I said through a clenched jaw, responding in their language. I finally moved my eyes, cut my gaze to return his glare. “I belong with Alexis and the Amadis.”Zardok, the Ancient Vampire, suddenly stood in front of me. His words filled the room like a loud bass drum, and his sour breath blew the hair back from my face. “YOU ARE A FOOL!”I returned my focus to the wall, ignoring the disgusting bloodsucker. He returned to his chair just as fast as he’d come, his anger pulsing off of him in palpable waves.Lucas clucked his tongue. “Tsk, tsk. Such a shame to have to keep doing this. But if you refuse to rejoin us, you leave me no choice.” He turned his back to me, his white-blond ponytail writhing like a snake between his shoulder blades. “We have a new potion, yes?”One of the hooded figures by a hearth nodded. “And a spell along with it.”Lucas raised his right hand to shoulder-height and snapped his fingers. Four werewolves surrounded me—two at my front, two close to my shoulders. A sorcerer stood in front of me, and I braced myself as he raised his staff and slammed it back on the ground.A fiery current shot through my feet and into my body, an electric charge zinging through every nerve. My muscles seized, and I stifled a gasp. He brought the staff down again, and the pain racked through me once more. I nearly doubled over. The third time sounded like thunder cracking through the cavern. My gut clenched. My lungs seized. A growl rumbled in my throat as the instinctual urge to fight back rose from within, but I wouldn’t allow it. Instead, I let myself fall to my knees.The sorcerer’s hand flicked. My back arched and my head fell back, forcing my bare chest upwards. The Weres—in their burly human forms—each took a limb to hold me down. Lucas stood over me, one hand grasping a foot-long, curved blade, its honed point dripping with some new poison for them to try on me.“Where do you belong?” Lucas asked again.“With the Amadis,” I said, my voice purposely hoarse.“Wrong answer,” Lucas replied, and he thrust the blade into my chest.I bit back another gasp of pain. Their potions were getting nastier, their spells meaner. This one hurt like a son of a bitch, acid pouring through the layers of skin. Again, I suppressed the urge to fight back.“Who do you serve?” Lucas demanded, his voice rising as he held the knife half buried, the point very near my heart but unable to penetrate.“God,” I rasped just as loud as him, ensuring everyone in the room heard me.White-hot spikes of agony shot under the skin surrounding my heart. Fuuuuck! A shudder wracked my body as Lucas dug the knife in deeper and slid it downward. Breathing became more difficult to control and my chest rose shallowly as I began to pant. But even as he severed the skin and tendons, everything knitted back together right behind the blade. He pulled the knife out, then plunged it in again.“Who—owns—you?” Lucas yelled as he pulled and plunged the knife between each word. A noise I couldn’t control rumbled in my chest—a growl of anger mixed with a groan of pain. When that was my only answer, he continued slicing my skin with the poison-covered blade, carving gashes into my chest, setting my nerves on fire. “WHO. OWNS. YOU?!”“ALEXIS!” I finally bellowed. Pain blinded me. Electric current shot through my veins, seizing every muscle, before letting go. I fell forward to my hands, my breaths still coming in shallow pants. A thin sheen of sweat covered my face and body. I leaned back on my heels, and blood slid down my chest and over my tight stomach muscles, although the wounds had already sealed. My hair clung to the sides of my face and neck as I rolled my eyes up to look at Lucas and lifted the corner of my lip in a snarl. My voice, however, now came out clear. And low and deliberate, letting them know they’d never break me. “Alexis owns me.”Whatever came at me, I let it hit me. Let them think they were bringing me down. Making me weak. Just not completely broken. That was the plan.It knocked me out.I awoke to my boots bumping along the rocky dirt floor as two brick-house vampires dragged me through a dark corridor to my own personal cave far from the center of Hades. Rocks and the uneven terrain kept catching my legs, tearing new holes into my pants. Their stone-like hands gripped around my shoulders like vises with enough pressure that a Norman man’s bones would be pulverized. My head bobbed as I watched them carefully through the curtain of hair that hung in my face. I could have walked on my own volition by now, but I wasn’t about to make their job easier.I let them throw me into my dirt cave and even gave them a show by crawling to the far wall, into the shadows, and curling into the fetal position. They snorted and snickered as they trotted off. When the time came, they’d be the first I’d kill. But not now.Right now, I was buying Alexis time. As long as Lucas and the Ancients had me to play with, they’d leave her and our son alone. In the meantime, I’d let them think they were getting to me. They obviously couldn’t kill me—they’d already tried everything and continually failed—but as much as Lucas’s attempts hurt, I could deal with it. Patience was a virtue and Lucas was anything but virtuous. He’d eventually grow bored of torturing me and find a different technique of trying to get me to fight for them again. But that would never happen.I fight for you, Alexis, I thought as I rolled onto my back, my eyes closed. I pulled at a cherished memory of our time together, her beautiful face clear as day as she gave me a shy grin. We sat on the beach near Sophia’s house in the Cape, watching the sunset together for the first time. My insides took a beating as the Ancients’ monster within me tried to come out, but the urge to kiss her, to touch her skin, to feel her body against me was stronger. But I couldn’t take the chance. And she obviously wasn’t ready.I moved onto another favorite vision—the two of us sitting on the motorcycle on Gasparilla Island, watching the sun set over the water.“I love you, my sweet Tristan,” she whispered against my ear, her full lips sending sparks straight to my dick, but it was those words that I treasured. Words I’d never expected to hear in my long life.“I love you, too, ma lykita,” I murmured back, and I moaned aloud at her content sigh in my head.One day, I vowed, we’d share those words again. One day, I’d make good on my promise.
If you want to know more about the Ancients and Hades, be sure to read Genesis: A Soul Savers Novella.