Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Book Blast for City of Gold by Carolyn Arnold

CITY OF GOLD large banner640

Welcome to my stop on the Book Blast, presented by Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours, for City of Gold by Carolyn Arnold.  Please leave a comment or question for Carolyn to let her know you stopped by.  


CITY OF GOLD
City of Gold
by Carolyn Arnold 
Matthew Connor Adventure Series, Book 1

Publisher: Hibbert & Stiles Publishing Inc Hardcover: 314 pages 
Release Date: November 27, 2015
ISBN-13: 978-1988064666
ASIN: B016LLDQIY

 

About the book:  

Action-adventure books for the mystery lover. In this series, modern-day archaeologist and adventurer Matthew Connor travels the globe with his two closest friends to unearth treasure and discover legends the world has all but forgotten. Indiana Jones meets the twenty-first century.

Finding the Inca’s lost City of Gold would be the discovery of a lifetime. But failing could mean her death...
Archaeologist Matthew Connor and his friends Cal and Robyn are finally home after a dangerous retrieval expedition in India. While they succeeded in obtaining the priceless Pandu artifact they sought, it almost cost them their lives. Still, Matthew is ready for the next adventure. Yet when new intel surfaces indicating the possible location of the legendary City of Gold, Matthew is hesitant to embark on the quest.

Not only is the evidence questionable but it means looking for the lost city of Paititi far away from where other explorers have concentrated their efforts. As appealing as making the discovery would be, it’s just too risky. But when Cal’s girlfriend, Sophie, is abducted by Matthew’s old nemesis who is dead-set on acquiring the Pandu statue, Matthew may be forced into action. Saving Sophie’s life means either breaking into the Royal Ontario Museum to steal the relic or offering up something no one in his or her right mind can refuse--the City of Gold.

Now Matthew and his two closest friends have to find a city and a treasure that have been lost for centuries. And they only have seven days to do it. As they race against the clock, they quickly discover that the streets they seek aren’t actually paved with gold, but with blood.

EXCERPT FROM CITY OF GOLD


Chapter 2

“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. I want to thank you all for coming to celebrate this monumental find.” William paused to soak in the enviable applause. He definitely had a way of extorting the response he wanted.

After the clapping died down, he continued. “The Pandu statue is unquestionably one of the greatest discoveries of the twenty-first century. We are indebted to those who brought the Pandu here for us to appreciate.”

The statue was suddenly projected behind him on a large screen, the introduction to a slideshow presentation.

Matthew ran his hand along his jawline as he scanned the room. For the most part, everyone’s eyes were on William. All except for a few wandering and lustful gazes that traveled over him. A brunette, who appeared to have reached drinking age last week, sucked on her finger, the implication obvious.

Matthew returned his attention to the podium, even though it made him nauseated to listen to William speak about his discovery. If the man had any idea that it was because of his son—and his son’s two best friends—that this celebration was even possible, it might give him his third heart attack.

“If you have any questions about the Pandu, I am certain that the museum curator, Miss Robyn Garcia, would be happy to answer them. You can also ask my son, Matthew Connor”—he extended his hand toward Matthew—“who is an archaeologist.”

Despite the twist in his gut, Matthew lifted his glass in response, purely out of etiquette.

“Yes, well, without further pomp and circumstance, Miss Robyn Garcia.” William stepped to the side, clapping, and Robyn joined him on the podium.

It was the first time this evening that Matthew saw her. How he had missed her, even in a crowd, was remarkable. Matthew let out a deep breath at the sight of her.

She wore a black evening gown that complemented her tanned complexion. Her long, dark hair was straightened and slicked behind her shoulders and left to drape over her bare upper back. The dress was floor length with a slit on the left side that reached midthigh. Beads that sparkled like diamonds covered the bodice, and the fabric was attractively gathered where it cupped her breasts. She’d paired the gown with diamond earrings and bangles.

Robyn positioned herself behind the microphone and let her eyes trace over the crowd. If she was nervous about public speaking, it wasn’t evident. They met each other’s eyes, and her lips curved upward slightly. He was certain his mouth was gaping open and his expression resembled that of a goofy teenaged boy with a crush. It was a lot easier to see her as an equal when she was wearing khakis and boots, her shirt stained with sweat and her hair pulled back into a loose ponytail.

Robyn gestured to the screen behind her. “It truly is a remarkable gift we’ve been given. Thank you to William Connor for extending this celebration to his home.” She clapped, encouraging everyone to follow suit. Even Matthew found himself putting his hands together.

William dipped his head in silent acknowledgment and then waved, implying that it was no big deal.

And really, it wasn’t. Lauren and Daniel did all the hard work. Lauren’s primary charge was keeping the house tidy, and Daniel was the butler and property manager. At the end of the day, everything was their responsibility.

Speaking of Daniel, there was no sign of him. That was strange because he was the one who had led them to India in the first place. He was Matthew’s aid when it came to researching and picking expeditions. Maybe Daniel working for both father and son wasn’t the ideal situation, but it was what it was.

Robyn continued. “The Pandu is believed to date back to the third century. If you joined us at the museum earlier, this isn’t news to you, but the sacrifices that Gideon Barnes made to bring this to us are significant.”

“Is that why he’s not here tonight?” a man in the crowd called out. If Matthew remembered right, his name was Jacob.

No one was looking at him, yet Matthew felt under a microscope. Where was Lauren with more champagne? He always felt uncomfortable in these situations and was impressed by Robyn’s restraint in not letting her eyes drift back to him. She was a pro.

“Mr. Barnes regrets that he was unable to be here tonight, but he sends his love and appreciation.”

A man standing next to Matthew bumped his elbow. “The guy never shows up for his own contributions. If it weren’t for the artifacts and some pictures, I’d doubt his existence.”

“He might value his privacy,” Matthew said. And that statement wasn’t far from the truth. As for the pictures, Matthew had hired a man to be the face of Gideon Barnes, but it was to get his father’s backing, nothing more.

Robyn went on, providing more background on the Pandu. His mind wandered as she spoke. He was ready for the next mission. Time was too precious to sit around basking in past accomplishments. Life was about seizing the moment.

Matthew looked to the doorway and noticed Daniel standing off to the right. Daniel’s Norwegian gray eyes were locked on him.

“Excuse me,” Matthew whispered as he weaved through the mass of people to Daniel. Matthew handed his empty glass to the man.

“Refill, sir?”

Matthew directed Daniel to move down the hall and out of sight of their guests. “That’s not why I’m here, and you know it. You have something. What is it?”

Daniel considered their surroundings before responding. “One of the greatest legends, sir.”

Matthew’s heart palpitated, a natural and habitual occurrence when the prospect of a new adventure came calling.

About the Author


Carolyn Author Photo 2013 ColorCAROLYN ARNOLD is the international best-selling and award-winning author of the Madison Knight, Brandon Fisher, and McKinley Mystery series. She is the only author with POLICE PROCEDURALS RESPECTED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT.™

Carolyn was born in a small town, but that doesn’t keep her from dreaming big. And on par with her large dreams is her overactive imagination that conjures up killers and cases to solve. She currently lives in a city near Toronto with her husband and two beagles, Max and Chelsea. She is also a member of Crime Writers of Canada.



Connect with CAROLYN ARNOLD Online:

Website - http://carolynarnold.net/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/Carolyn_Arnold
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCarolynArnold

And don’t forget to sign up for her newsletter for up-to-date information on release and special offers at http://carolynarnold.net/newsletters.

Purchase Links

Amazon US   Amazon UK   Amazon CA   Amazon AU   Barnes & Noble    iBooks    Kobo


Tour Schedule

December 1


December 2


Posted by Maria at Wednesday, December 02, 2015 0 comments

Book Blitz & #Giveaway for Creating Fate by Tamra Lassiter

CreatingFateBlitz

Welcome to my stop on the Book Blitz, presented by IndieSage Promotions, for Creating Fate by Tamra Lassiter.  Please leave a comment or question for Tamra to let her know you stopped by. You may enter her tour wide giveaway by filling out the Rafflecopter form below.

CreatingFate-Cover-1500x2400px-4
Creating Fate 
Publication Date: December 2, 2015 
Also in this series: Deciding Fate, Blinding Fate 
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Buy Link: Amazon

We can’t create our own fate.

Justin Simms joined the Army to distance himself from his family and the painful secret he’s hiding from them. When he has to travel home for his brother’s wedding, he worries they’ll find out he’s not as happy as he pretends to be. Justin notices Annie immediately. She’s smart, beautiful, and recently out of a relationship—all the traits he looks for in a woman. She’s also wholesome and openly looking for Mr. Right—two things that scare the crap out of him. Yet, spending time with Annie makes him happy. He doesn’t have to pretend.

Annie’s a strong, intelligent woman who is successful in every way except for one. Her first sexual encounter with her teenage boyfriend was a disaster and has haunted her ever since. Annie just knows that if she finds true love, her insecurities will fade away. She isn’t ashamed to admit she’s looking for love. Her parents have had a happy marriage, so why should she settle for anything less? When Annie meets Justin, she thinks he might be the one she’s looking for. Will Justin realize that meeting Annie really was fate and deal with his past before it’s too late?



Role of Fate Series 

 

ABOUT TAMRA LASSITER

I live outside Washington, D.C. with my wonderfully supportive husband and two daughters, one of which is approaching her teenage years. Help us all! If that isn’t enough, we have a Great Dane and an English Bulldog to keep us on our toes. It’s crazy around here and I love every minute of it! Writing is my third career. I didn't set out to be a writer, it was just meant to be. My Mechanical Engineering degree from Virginia Tech prepared me well for my first career as an Engineer/Program Manager. My second career was in Human Resources. Long story, but I figured it out. I believe the best start for a writing career is to be a reader first and I’ve been an avid reader my whole life. I've loved to read ever since I picked up my first Nancy Drew mystery in the fourth grade. Now I love reading just about everything, but I don’t read sad books and I don’t watch sad movies either for that matter, no matter how many awards they’ve won. Life’s too short and who needs all that strife to bring us down? Many of my words have been penned late into the evening, which explains why I’ve never viewed whatever television show you recommend to me. I would, however, love to hear your recommendations for a great read!


Website • Twitter • Facebook • Goodreads




Posted by Maria at Wednesday, December 02, 2015 1 comments

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

Release Blast & #Giveaway for I'll Be There by Samantha Chase


Welcome to my stop on the Release Blast, presented by Tasty Book Tours, for I’ll Be There by Samantha Chase.  Please leave a comment or question for Samantha to let her know you stopped by.  You may enter her tour wide giveaway, where Samantha will award a $50 Amazon GC to one (1) randomly chosen commenter, by filling out the Rafflecopter form below.  


I'LL BE THERE
Montgomery Brother's #6
Samantha Chase
Releasing Dec 1st, 2015
Sourcebooks Casablanca


Book #6 in New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Samantha Chase's popular Montgomery series

This Montgomery Has a Head for Business

Working for Zach Montgomery is challenging on many levels-coming from a wealthy and powerful family, he lives by his own rules and doesn't answer to anyone. But Gabriella Martine has no intention of backing down. She's used to handling stubborn men, and it doesn't hurt that Zach is smart, charismatic...and gorgeous.

And a Heart for Adventure

Zach's perfect world is turned upside down when a climbing accident leaves him broken, angry, and maddeningly dependent. In his slow quest for recovery, Gabriella is always there to help...but as Zach comes to see his beautiful assistant in a new light, he is forced to re-evaluate what it really means to be a man worthy of Gabriella's love.

BUY NOW
Amazon | B & N | Google Play | iTunes | Kobo



“I guess I could come over.”

Her words were said so quickly that Zach thought he might have imagined them. “What did you say?”

“It…it was nothing. Never mind. I’ll just plan on seeing you tomorrow.”

“You said you could come over. Like now.”

“It’s late,” she said softly.

“Do you have a curfew?”

She giggled. “No.”

“That’s good. Neither do I.”

“But…it’s crazy, Zach. It’s not like we can get anything done tonight.”

He wasn’t so sure about that. “So? We’ll watch a movie or we’ll start our online research and making our plan for tomorrow.”

“I’m…I’m kind of in my jammies already.”

Was it too much to hope that it was scraps of silk and lace and she’d kept her stilettos on? “Me too.”

Now she laughed a little harder. “Oh really?”

“Yup. Really. Flannel pants, a t-shirt. Very jammie-ish.”

“I don’t even think that’s a word, Zach.”

“It doesn’t need to be. Come on. I’m not expecting you to come over in business attire, Gabs. I’ve seen you in jeans and dressed casually. It’s not a big deal.”

“I don’t normally drive around a whole lot at night.”

As much as he wanted to see her and spend time with her, he certainly wasn’t going to be selfish and endanger her by making her drive around late at night. If he was ready to drive on his own, he’d suggest going over to her place, but he hadn’t gotten the clearance from his doctor yet.

“It’s okay, Gabriella. We’ll leave things as we originally planned and I’ll see you tomorrow for lunch.” He sighed quietly and got comfortable on the couch. “I don’t want you driving around by yourself late at night.”

“You’re very sweet.”

He laughed darkly. “I bet it hurt to say that.”

“Oh, stop. We agreed we weren’t looking back, right?”

He nodded. “Right.” God he wanted to keep talking to her but he could hear it in her voice that she was tired. “Why don’t I let you go and get some sleep and I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“Mmm,” she sighed. “I’m sorry. If it wasn’t quite so late…”

“It’s all right, Gabs. Really.”

“Okay. I don’t want you to be mad.”

“Not mad. Disappointed. I’m finding I really like spending time with you.”

“I like it too.”

She was killing him.

“Go,” he forced himself to say. “Goodnight, Gabriella.”


She made that purring sound again and everything in Zach hardened. “Goodnight, Zach.”








New York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan's Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40's to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.
When she's not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, playing way too many games of Scrabble or Solitaire on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in North Carolina.
Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

Haven't Started the Series?
WAIT FOR ME/TRUST IN ME 
are now available in a duo!

Amazon | B&N | iTunes

Posted by Maria at Tuesday, December 01, 2015 1 comments

Cover Reveal for Within a Captain's Treasure by Lisa A. Olech


Welcome to my stop on the Cover Reveal, presented by Pump Up Your Book, for Within A Captain's Treasure by Lisa A. Olech.  Please leave a comment or question for Lisa to let her know you stopped by.  

Title: Within a Captain's Treasure
Author: Lisa A. Olech
Publisher: Lyrical Press
Genre: Romance
Format: Ebook

This pirate’s latest prize may be love…

With a single pistol shot and the swing of a cutlass, Alice Tupper saves her mistress’s life. But no lady’s maid in polite society has ever killed a duke—at least, not on purpose. So Alice sets sail for America and her new destiny—only to find herself battling pirates on the high seas. Aboard her rescue ship, The Scarlet Night, she is hailed a hero and earns her place among the crew…
as well as the ire of Captain Gavin Quinn.

Gavin chose this pirate’s life, but he knows it’s no place for a woman, especially one as exasperating—and beautiful—as Alice. Despite his desire for her, Gavin is determined to do the right thing and deliver her to the new world. But Alice’s deepest wish is a life by Gavin’s side. Will his heart overrule his sense, and will he risk everything to pursue his greatest treasure of all?

ORDER INFORMATION
Within A Captain's Treasure is available for order at

amazon
BN
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Lisa Olech

Surrounded by men, Lisa considers herself an estrogen island in a sea of testosterone! This makes her queen!! Living in the beauty of New England she spends her free time tending the many gardens that surround her home and breathing fresh lake air. 

She loves getting lost in a steamy book, finding the perfect pair of fabulous, sexy shoes and dreaming of her handsome heroes. 

Her creativity and deep sense of spirituality has filled her life with new and wondrous adventures. She believes in ghosts, silver linings, and happily ever afters!

For More Information
Visit Lisa’s website.
Connect with Lisa on Facebook  and Twitter.  



Posted by Maria at Tuesday, December 01, 2015 0 comments

Virtual Tour & #Giveaway for One More Sunset by Jolyse Barnett


Welcome to my stop on the Virtual Tour, presented by Reading Addiction Virtual Book Tours, for One Last Sunset by Jolyse Barnett.  Please leave a comment or question for Jolyse to let her know you stopped by.  You may enter her tour wide giveaway, where Jolyse will award one (1) commenter a One More Sunset Swag Prize Pack, by filling out the Rafflecopter form below.  You may follow all of the stops on the tour by clicking on the banner above.  The more stops you visit, the better your odds of winning. 

One More Sunset
By Jolyse Barnett
Mystic Escapes, Book 1


Publisher:  Booktrope
Date Published: September 21, 2015
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Format:  eBook/Print
Length:  171 Pages
ISBN: 978-1513701738
ASIN: B015LCNKBC

Buy Links:  Amazon Print | Kindle | B&N PRINT  
About the book: 

Some people run for exercise while others run for fun. Abby Stone spends most days running for her life. 

After Abby Stone’s ex-boyfriend shows up at her new hideout and she uses a bottle of wine as an impromptu weapon, calling the police is out of the question. His family has a knack for erasing charges and pesky restraining orders. Desperate, she prays for help. A magical suitcase appears and she’s compelled to play an unsettling game involving a sexy, kind stranger while staying one breath ahead of her stalker.

Dylan Reece has overcome tragedy and enjoys life as a single Key West handyman and fisherman. Yet Abby’s sad, wary eyes hold secrets and a chance for his redemption, if not more…


Will the magic of their love be enough to save them?

EXCERPT

His mouth was so kissable. All she had to do was lean forward, and their lips would meet. “Whatever. Sounds great.”

He smiled at her, a glint in his eyes. “I knew you’d choose open water.” He indicated her tote bag. “Take only what you need. Your stuff will be safe here.” He slid the sunglasses on and returned to his side of the truck.

Abby shook her head to clear the sexual fog before opening her door and stepping out of the truck. Boats of all sizes, from little motor boats to sailboats and yachts, bobbed in the crystal blue waters just beyond the boardwalk. White gulls perched on pilings like mini bird statues, and the floating docks below creaked in time to the rhythm of the rolling waves. Her shoulders relaxed as she sucked in the ocean air.

Dylan joined her. “No matter how long I live here, I’ll never be immune to the island’s beauty.” He took her hand. “C’mon. It’s over here.”

They strolled onto the boardwalk, past shops, around a corner along the water’s edge where mouthwatering aromas of surf and turf spilled from seaside restaurants and tourists posed for photos or headed for fun on the water like them. She stopped to snap a photo for a happy couple on their honeymoon while Dylan walked ahead of her around another bend. 

The couple thanked her, and she turned to catch up with Dylan. She was just about there when she heard him call out to someone.

“Hey, Kyle.”

Had this all been some elaborate trap? Abby clapped a hand over her mouth and ducked between two tour booths next to the boardwalk before peeking out.

Dylan greeted a short, dark-haired guy with a pat on the shoulder.

She scanned the boardwalk. It was empty aside from the two men.

She released a breath and stepped back onto the boardwalk. Heat rose to her cheeks, and she smoothed her hair before continuing toward them.

The shorter man glanced at Abby as she approached and turned to Dylan with a grin. 

“Now I understand why I haven’t seen you the past couple weeks.”

Dylan shrugged, not bothering to correct him. “This is my friend, Abby.” He took her hand in his. “Abby, this is my buddy, Kyle.”

“Friend, huh?” Kyle glanced at their clasped hands. “I’ve never seen you hold hands with any woman before, man. I think there’s way more going on here than friendliness.” He chuckled.

Dylan ignored the guy’s good-natured ribbing. “So, where are those wave runners we talked about?”

Kyle smirked. “Well, I was worried you’d be upset, man, ‘cause right after you called I found out the last two single riders were booked, but lucky for you, I’ve got a two-rider available.” He winked at Dylan and shot Abby a smile.

Dylan turned to her. “Still want to go? You can drive.”

She pictured herself snuggled against his back, the wind in their hair and sun on their faces as they floated around the lush, green island. She nodded. “Why don’t you drive first and then I’ll take a turn once I get the hang of it.”

Kyle grabbed a clipboard from a nearby booth. “Sounds like a plan, man. Just sign here, and the baby’s yours for the afternoon.”

They signed the waivers stating the wave runner company wasn’t responsible for potential loss of life and limb. Maybe she should have brought that ace bandage for its intended purpose.

Dylan nudged her shoulder. “It’s just a form. No worries, remember?”

He traded Kyle the clipboard for a key. “Thanks. See you in a few.” Dylan slipped his hand back into hers to help her navigate a narrow metal dock. “Watch your step. These can be tricky.” They wobbled about a third of the way before stopping at a smaller, attached floating dock with assorted watercraft.

Dylan pointed to a Jet Ski that appeared big enough for three people. “You sure you want me to drive?”

It would be easier to tell him the rest of her tale if she didn’t have to concentrate on driving. “Yes.” She stepped onto the smaller dock and straddled the back of the machine.

“You forgot your vest.”

“Oh, right.”

Dylan tossed her a vest from the selection on the railing next to the floating dock and moved to help her buckle the straps. He was all business until he finished. Then he just stood there, looking down at her from behind his sunglasses, a goofy smile plastered across his face.

Kiss me.

He cleared his throat and turned to put on his vest, the moment between them ending.

Abby half listened to his water safety instructions—until he straddled the seat in front of her and she was lost in the wonder of his body close to hers. Her thoughts of how to tell him about her Kyle, her past, and fears for the future melted away. Giving into surging hormones, her hands slid along his vest and lower, touching his flat stomach. She relished the feel of taut muscles through his tee shirt. 

His breath hitched and he moved her hands back onto his vest. “Hold onto the straps. Tight.”

“Okay.” She heard the smile in her voice. Focus, Abby, or else you may regret leaving the ace bandage behind.  

“Ready?”

“Yeah.”

He pushed the wave runner back from the dock, and they slid into the water, floating in a half circle to face the marina’s waterway through the harbor. He started the engine and glanced back at her. His mouth moved, but the machine drowned his words.

She smiled and nodded. Did it matter what he said? She trusted him. I trust him? She tilted her head back, closed her eyes, and soaked in the sun.
About the Author:

Author Jolyse Barnett writes contemporary romance and romantic suspense. As a little girl growing up in upstate New York on the shores of Lake Champlain, she enjoyed chasing fireflies, riding her ten-speed bike on winding country roads, and playing horseshoes at family picnics through endless summers. Winter was another kind of adventure for an active kid, with skiing in the Adirondack Mountains, trips to the local public library to feed a voracious reading habit, and ice skating with her siblings on a frozen pond near her childhood home.

Much to the confusion of her peers, she discovered the thrill of storytelling at a young age, often forgetting to differentiate between fact and fantasy. Thankfully her fifth grade teacher encouraged her to memorize poems and create her own—unleashing her inner writer. After graduating from high school, she developed a more practical side. She earned a degree in Writing, fell in love with her best friend, and now lives her happily-ever-after in Long Island suburbia. Who knew the dream home would include a leaky kitchen faucet, piles of laundry, and a too-hairy cat? But with love, it's all good.

She enjoys a fulfilling day job where she shares her love of language and explores the world one vacation at a time with her two children and real-life hero. Jolyse loves to connect with her readers. You can find her social media links and book news at http://jolysebarnett.com

Contact Information
Website: http://jolysebarnett.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJolyseBarnett
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JolyseBarnett @JolyseBarnett

Blog: http://jolysebarnett.com/blog

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Posted by Maria at Tuesday, December 01, 2015 1 comments
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