A MelanieM Review Replay: Forged in Fire (Asheville Arcana #2) by Ari McKay

Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5

The magic touch.

Ever since Harlan Edgewood was bitten by a possessed werewolf, his monthly shifts have been agonizing. When he meets Whimsy Hickes—a mage who specializes in transformation—the attraction is mutual. But Harlan believes his curse is too great a burden to inflict on any romantic partner.

Fortunately, Whimsy thinks he can help.

When Harlan is provoked into an unexpected change, Whimsy uses his magic to help ease Harlan’s pain, but with an unexpected consequence. While he’s shifted, Harlan’s wolf claims Whimsy as his mate.

As they draw closer, suspicious events in the Asheville magical community escalate. Shifters are disappearing, others are murdered, and Harlan’s curse makes him an obvious target. It will take all of Whimsy’s magic to force back the rising evil—and if he fails, Harlan will lose not only his life, but his very soul.

Whimsy Hickes! Of all  of the character names that have leapt across the  pages I have read all these years, this is one of the ones I wish I could grab for myself.  Just the sheer charm of this name speaks to me.  As does the character himself.  I have adored  Whimsy since I met him in Out of the Ashes (Asheville Arcana #1).  Then he was dealing with the loss of his triad relationship when his friend and lover, half-elf Arden Gilmarin, finds true love with his mate werewolf Eli Hammond.  When their other third, the Vampire disappears in his research, it leaves Whimsy lonely and searching for something for himself in Forged in Fire (Asheville Arcana #2) by Ari McKay.

The Asheville Arcana series or maybe trilogy is so wonderful.  Layered over with multiple storylines that keep your attention glued to every sentence less you loose a clue or important element that will frame out the next action, McKay never forgets that its the people (or beings) that are the foundation here.  And I mean every character, not just the main ones.  Just terrific characterizations all around.

Both Whimsy and Harlan are looking for something….and find each other unexpectedly.  It’s the mate bond that shows them the way.  Each character is lovingly built up so that they feel alive, each detail, right down to the handmade candles that one makes and the other joyfully receives, gives us insight into them as people and as a couple.  I loved that and them.  And could see them so clearly in my mind that I felt I  was nearby, listening in as  a friend and happy for them.

Of course, there is an ongoing series storyline arc here with a great evil and that is carried through here with suspense and wonderful action.  I was holding my breath at parts to see how it would all shake out and how if any resolution would happen knowing the series was only as book two.  I wasn’t disappointed. The authors can write action as well as romance.  And of course, we still have a lonely vampire at large.  Can’t have that, can we?

So what have we got?  A terrific magical series with supernatural and fantasy characters that feel alive and so vivid that you will connect with them easily.  An evil so pervasive that it sends chills down your spine and make you fear for all involved.  And plenty of love and romance for all lovers of, well, love and romance.  Plus the name Whimsy Hickes. You know how I feel about that.

I can’t wait for the next story in this series.  Until then, if you are new to the Asheville Arcana series, pick up book one and find out what’s in store for you.  None of them are standalones.  Then read this one.  I highly recommend them both.

Cover art:  Aaron Anderson.  Love this  cover.  That’s my idea of Whimsy Hickes now absolutely.

Sales Links:     Dreamspinner Press | Amazon

Book Details:

ebook, 220 pages
Expected publication: May 1st 2018 by Dreamspinner Press
ISBN139781640806979
Edition LanguageEnglish
Series Asheville Arcana

Out of the Ashes (Asheville Arcana #1)

Forged in Fire (Asheville Arcana, #2)

Review Tour for Forged in Fire (Asheville Arcana #2) by Ari McKay (excerpt and giveaway)

 

 
Cover Design: Aaron Anderson
 

Length: 59,473 words

 
 
Ashville Arcana Series
 
 
Blurb
 

The magic touch.

Ever since Harlan Edgewood was bitten by a possessed werewolf, his monthly shifts have been agonizing. When he meets Whimsy Hickes—a mage who specializes in transformation—the attraction is mutual. But Harlan believes his curse is too great a burden to inflict on any romantic partner.

Fortunately, Whimsy thinks he can help.

When Harlan is provoked into an unexpected change, Whimsy uses his magic to help ease Harlan’s pain, but with an unexpected consequence. While he’s shifted, Harlan’s wolf claims Whimsy as his mate.

As they draw closer, suspicious events in the Asheville magical community escalate. Shifters are disappearing, others are murdered, and Harlan’s curse makes him an obvious target. It will take all of Whimsy’s magic to force back the rising evil—and if he fails, Harlan will lose not only his life, but his very soul.



May 1 – OMG Reads
May 2 – Bayou Book Junkie
May 3 – Making It Happen
May 5 – Love Bytes
May 7 – My Fiction Nook
May 8 – The Novel Approach
May 9 – Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words, RAM PA Group, Drops Of Ink, Momma Says: To Read or Not To Read, United Indie Book Blog
May 10 – MM Good Book Reviews
May 11 – Bayou Book Junkie, Mirrigold, Valerie Ullmer, Virginia Lee
May 12 – Diverse Reader

Read Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review here.

Ari McKay is the professional pseudonym for Arionrhod and McKay, who have been writing together for over a decade. Their collaborations encompass a wide variety of romance genres, including contemporary, fantasy, science fiction, gothic, and action/adventure. Their work includes the Blood Bathory series of paranormal novels, the Herc’s Mercs series, as well as two historical Westerns: Heart of Stone and Finding Forgiveness. When not writing, they can often be found scheming over costume designs or binge watching TV shows together.

Arionrhod is a systems engineer by day who is eagerly looking forward to (hopefully) becoming a full time writer in the not-too-distant future. Now that she is an empty-nester, she has turned her attentions to finding the perfect piece of land to build a fortress in preparation for the zombie apocalypse, and baking (and eating) far too many cakes.

McKay is an English teacher who has been writing for one reason or another most of her life. She also enjoys knitting, reading, cooking, and playing video games. She has been known to knit in public. Given she has the survival skills of a gnat, she’s relying on Arionrhod to help her survive the zombie apocalypse.

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Twitter
Website

May Is Happily Underway and This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.

May Is Happily Underway!

The mailbox is yellow, coated with pollen, azaleas are in full bloom, and bluebirds are busily nesting. Yes, that picture above is mine. And it’s raining today.  Happy May indeed.

Remember when we were talking about what’s old is new again?  One of the books this week is a prime example. The Prisoner of Zenda was a novel by Anthony Hope, written in 1894.  It was also several black and white movies including one made in 1937 by Ronald Coleman, Raymond Massey, and Douglas Fairbanks for those of you who love old movie classics.  This week I will be reviewing The Henchmen of Zenda by K.J. Charles.  Ah, yes!  The familiar turned new!

If you have noticed some familiar titles reappearing lately, it’s due to authors getting their rights back and self publishing their stories.  We support their efforts and hope you will tool  Enough said.  Or maybe not enough.  Let me know.

Lately, I’ve had fantasy and science fiction on the mind with all of the MCU movies and Star Trek movies out there that I adore so much.  I’ve always read both genres growing up and even now grab them up left and right.  I feel a fantasy and SciFy binge coming on…

Be prepared!

In the meantime, I hope you are all out enjoying the wonderful May weather (if you have any where ever you may be).    Let me know what May activities and books have you in thrall.

 

Here’s our schedule this week….

 

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, May 6:

  • A MelanieM Review: Contraband Hearts (Porthkennack #10) by Alex Beecroft
  • This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.

Monday, May 7:

  • Harmony Promo Jeff Adams
  • Review Tour and Giveaway – The Sinner & The Saint (EM #8) by RJ Scott
  • Review Tour – Sarah Hadley Brook’s A Love To Remember
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: The Sinner & The Saint (EM #8) by RJ Scott
  • A Stella Review : A Love To Remember by Sarah Hadley Brook
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Valor On The Move (Valor #1) by Keira Andrews
  • An Alisa Audiobook Review: Infamous (Famous #2) by Jenny Holiday and Michael Fell (Narrator)

Tuesday, May 8:

  • Release Blitz – Amy Aislin’s  On The Ice
  • A Chance at Love by Silvia Violet Release Tour
  •  Release Tour and Giveaway: Detour by Reesa Herberth and Michelle Moore
  • This Time Around by Aimee Nicole Walker Release Blitz  and Giveaway
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Audiobook Review Rebel by Rhys Ford and Tristan James (Narrator)
  • A Stella Release Day Review: Plummet to Soar by  Z.A. Maxfield
  • An Alisa Review : Beholden by Kris T Bethke
  • An Ali Audiobook Review:  Leaning Into Touch (Leaning Into #4) by Lane Hayes and Nick J. Russo (Narrator)

Wednesday, May 9:

  • DSP Promo BA Tortuga
  • Review Tour – Forged in Fire (Asheville Arcana #2) by Ari McKay
  • Review Tour – Jay Northcote’s  Second Chance
  • A MelanieM Review:  Forged in Fire (Asheville Arcana #2) by Ari McKay
  • An Ali Review:Contraband Hearts (Porthkennack #10) by Alex Beecroft
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review:  Second Chance by Jay Northcote

Thursday, May 10:

  • Release Blitz – Owned by the Sea by L M Somerton
  • DSP Promo Z.A. Maxfield on Plummet to Soar
  • An Ali Review:  Restraint (Power Exchange 4) by AJ Rose
  • A MelanieM Review:  The Henchmen of Zenda by K.J. Charles
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review:Love in Spades (Four Kings Security #1) by Charlie Cochet
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Test Of Valor (Valor #2) by Keira Andrews
  • A MelanieM Review: Magic Ties Together by Nina Begonia

Friday, May 11:

  • Book Blast – Survivors by Jessie Pinkham L
  • ELI EASTON on Robbie Riverton: Mail Order Bride
  • Review Tour –Hawk In The Rowan (The Rowan Harbor Cycle #4) by Sam Burns
  • A Free Dreamer Review: Fox and Birch (The Rowan Harbor Cycle #3) by Sam Burns
  • A Free Dreamer Review: Hawk In The Rowan (The Rowan Harbor Cycle #4) by Sam Burns
  • An Alisa Review : Five Dares by Eli Easton

Saturday, May 12:

A MelanieM Review: The Dragon of Ynys by Minerva Cerridwen

 

 

 

An Alisa Review: Rended Hearts by Riza Curtis

Rating:  4 stars out of 5

 

After a life on the run, witch Gabriel just wants to enjoy having a home. He’s perfectly happy pottering around his garden and using magic to quietly help people. Then the Alpha of the local wolf pack is attacked by a member of the local coven, and everything changes. There’s no love lost between the witch and the wolves, but Gabriel saves the life of the Alpha in an attempt to keep the peace.

 

Simon finds his mate in the witch that saves his life, but the coven is coming for Gabriel, and they don’t care who gets in their way…

 

This was an enjoyable story. While I say that there seemed to be a lot of background information that felt glossed over or not really given, I felt like I was tossed into a world that was historical but not and a lot of prejudices that we were just supposed to accept.

 

Gabriel has been running for what feels like forever, we were never really told when his mother died so I’m not sure how long or how old he is, and just when he starts to have a place that feels like home he is thrown another curve ball. Simon has been quietly leading his pack for years hoping that someday he will find his mate but that seems hard when he doesn’t leave his pack often, I mean Gabriel has been in town for two years and they had yet to meet. Gabriel doesn’t really accept their connection until late in the story and tries to protect Simon and his pack but it backfires.

 

I liked the story but didn’t feel like I really knew the characters or what they were doing. Simon was simple with the wolf’s mate bond and connection but Gabriel pushed and didn’t seem to understand their connection. Gabriel went through a lot of changes that I didn’t feel were described to me.

 

The cover art is nice and I like the “starry” wolf.

 

Sales Link: Amazon

 

Book Details:

ebook, 150 pages

Published: March 30, 2018 by Riza Curtis

Edition Language: English

 

Release Blitz and Giveaway for Forged in Fire (Asheville Arcana #2) by Ari McKay

 

 
Cover Design: Aaron Anderson
 

Length: 59,473 words

 
 
Ashville Arcana Series
 
 
Blurb
 

The magic touch.

Ever since Harlan Edgewood was bitten by a possessed werewolf, his monthly shifts have been agonizing. When he meets Whimsy Hickes—a mage who specializes in transformation—the attraction is mutual. But Harlan believes his curse is too great a burden to inflict on any romantic partner.

Fortunately, Whimsy thinks he can help.

When Harlan is provoked into an unexpected change, Whimsy uses his magic to help ease Harlan’s pain, but with an unexpected consequence. While he’s shifted, Harlan’s wolf claims Whimsy as his mate.

As they draw closer, suspicious events in the Asheville magical community escalate. Shifters are disappearing, others are murdered, and Harlan’s curse makes him an obvious target. It will take all of Whimsy’s magic to force back the rising evil—and if he fails, Harlan will lose not only his life, but his very soul.

Ari McKay is the professional pseudonym for Arionrhod and McKay, who have been writing together for over a decade. Their collaborations encompass a wide variety of romance genres, including contemporary, fantasy, science fiction, gothic, and action/adventure. Their work includes the Blood Bathory series of paranormal novels, the Herc’s Mercs series, as well as two historical Westerns: Heart of Stone and Finding Forgiveness. When not writing, they can often be found scheming over costume designs or binge watching TV shows together.

Arionrhod is a systems engineer by day who is eagerly looking forward to (hopefully) becoming a full time writer in the not-too-distant future. Now that she is an empty-nester, she has turned her attentions to finding the perfect piece of land to build a fortress in preparation for the zombie apocalypse, and baking (and eating) far too many cakes.

McKay is an English teacher who has been writing for one reason or another most of her life. She also enjoys knitting, reading, cooking, and playing video games. She has been known to knit in public. Given she has the survival skills of a gnat, she’s relying on Arionrhod to help her survive the zombie apocalypse.

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A MelanieM Release Day Review: Forged in Fire (Asheville Arcana #2) by Ari McKay

 

Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5

The magic touch.

Ever since Harlan Edgewood was bitten by a possessed werewolf, his monthly shifts have been agonizing. When he meets Whimsy Hickes—a mage who specializes in transformation—the attraction is mutual. But Harlan believes his curse is too great a burden to inflict on any romantic partner.

Fortunately, Whimsy thinks he can help.

When Harlan is provoked into an unexpected change, Whimsy uses his magic to help ease Harlan’s pain, but with an unexpected consequence. While he’s shifted, Harlan’s wolf claims Whimsy as his mate.

As they draw closer, suspicious events in the Asheville magical community escalate. Shifters are disappearing, others are murdered, and Harlan’s curse makes him an obvious target. It will take all of Whimsy’s magic to force back the rising evil—and if he fails, Harlan will lose not only his life, but his very soul.

Whimsy Hickes! Of all  of the character names that have leapt across the  pages I have read all these years, this is one of the ones I wish I could grab for myself.  Just the sheer charm of this name speaks to me.  As does the character himself.  I have adored  Whimsy since I met him in Out of the Ashes (Asheville Arcana #1).  Then he was dealing with the loss of his triad relationship when his friend and lover, half-elf Arden Gilmarin, finds true love with his mate werewolf Eli Hammond.  When their other third, the Vampire disappears in his research, it leaves Whimsy lonely and searching for something for himself in Forged in Fire (Asheville Arcana #2) by Ari McKay.

The Asheville Arcana series or maybe trilogy is so wonderful.  Layered over with multiple storylines that keep your attention glued to every sentence less you loose a clue or important element that will frame out the next action, McKay never forgets that its the people (or beings) that are the foundation here.  And I mean every character, not just the main ones.  Just terrific characterizations all around.

Both Whimsy and Harlan are looking for something….and find each other unexpectedly.  It’s the mate bond that shows them the way.  Each character is lovingly built up so that they feel alive, each detail, right down to the handmade candles that one makes and the other joyfully receives, gives us insight into them as people and as a couple.  I loved that and them.  And could see them so clearly in my mind that I felt I  was nearby, listening in as  a friend and happy for them.

Of course, there is an ongoing series storyline arc here with a great evil and that is carried through here with suspense and wonderful action.  I was holding my breath at parts to see how it would all shake out and how if any resolution would happen knowing the series was only as book two.  I wasn’t disappointed. The authors can write action as well as romance.  And of course, we still have a lonely vampire at large.  Can’t have that, can we?

So what have we got?  A terrific magical series with supernatural and fantasy characters that feel alive and so vivid that you will connect with them easily.  An evil so pervasive that it sends chills down your spine and make you fear for all involved.  And plenty of love and romance for all lovers of, well, love and romance.  Plus the name Whimsy Hickes. You know how I feel about that.

I can’t wait for the next story in this series.  Until then, if you are new to the Asheville Arcana series, pick up book one and find out what’s in store for you.  None of them are standalones.  Then read this one.  I highly recommend them both.

Cover art:  Aaron Anderson.  Love this  cover.  That’s my idea of Whimsy Hickes now absolutely.

Sales Links:     Dreamspinner Press | Amazon

Book Details:

ebook, 220 pages
Expected publication: May 1st 2018 by Dreamspinner Press
ISBN139781640806979
Edition LanguageEnglish
Series Asheville Arcana

Out of the Ashes (Asheville Arcana #1)

Forged in Fire (Asheville Arcana, #2)

Tis the Merry Month of May. This Week At Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Tis the Merry Month of May

Yes, May is upon us and I couldn’t be happier!  That means our official last day of frost has passed and its safe to plant our annuals.  For us nerds, we can look forward to May 4th….Star Wars Day.  Yes, May the Fourth be with you!  And Cinco de Mayo will follow on its heels.

Bluebirds have been back, nest building in earnest.  The pollen count is rising…sorry but the trees are going mad in the spring. Nature is bursting forth again with growth. And the days are getting longer, something that always lifts my spirits.

So too the fact that I can take my Kindle outside to read while the dogs investigate the yard to see what’s new and exciting or old and inviting.  You never know with them.

Odd little interesting items you might be interested in, especially if you like comic books like me.  The first saturday in May?  Its Free Comic Book Day.  Here’s the history and info.  Call your local store to see if its participating.

Calling all nerds, geeks, and comic book aficionados. Today is Free Comic Book Day.

Who says you can’t get something for nothing? On this very special day, comic book stores all over the country hand our specially printed copies of free comic books. Some comic book stores take it a step further, setting up shelves of free comic books, with no strings attached. Take one or take several, and you don’t owe the store anything. Of course, the comic book stores are trying to hook you into the fun world of comic books, so you come back and buy new editions over and over again. Occasionally, stores will also hand out other freebies, memorabilia, posters, etc.

 Free Comic Book Day, taking place on the first Saturday of May, is an annual promotional effort by the North American Comic Book industry to help bring new readers into independent comic book stores. At last count, over 2,000 retailers in 30 countries participate in this fun filled day.

Head on out to your local comic book store, and get hooked on the world of comics.

Friday, May 5th is a very busy day.  It’s also Oyster Day (great since I’m so close to the Chesapeake Bay).  I’ll take advantage of this! Maybe have half a dozen raw oysters and read a free comic.  Sounds like a plan to me.  Did you know that there are LGBT comics out there?  Remember that post?

Anyhow it’s looking to be a busy week!  Let the May celebrations begin!

From our readers who left comments  for our What’s Old is New Again Giveaway,  I’d like to post them here.

♦︎From Ami:

Thank you for the generous giveaway … I think in regards to issues coming left and right from Romancelandia these days, I would love to read more about INTERRACIAL COUPLE trope. I don’t feel like I read it a lot. Other than that, I still see the same old tropes playing around, enemies-to-lovers, friends-to-lovers …

[ I agree, Ami.  Your comment is timely, One of the books I read last week Why I Trust You by Colette Davison featured an interracial couple as does one by Alex Beecroft in one of my favorite series Contraband Hearts (Porthkennack #10) by Alex Beecroft.  I’m reviewing that on Saturday.  What is fascinating about that one is that it is an M/M historical romance that absolutely feels authentic. Authors! More please!]

♦︎From H.B.:

I read pretty much the same tropes I’ve always have keeping to shifter stories, mpreg and friends to lovers. Mpreg and shifter stories kind of go hand in hand but I notice in the past year there have been more and more stories that focus on mpreg stories that involve alpha /omega couples that don’t having shifting abilities. I see resurfacing of marriage of convenience/relationship of convenience stories too.

[True, H.B., I see more and more of those as well.  One of the things I see popping up on cable/tv…everywhere are the prince stories and the commoner stories.  Gosh. Wonder where that idea came from.  And how long before it makes its way into the M/M stories. shall we take a poll?]

♦︎From Purple Reader:

Thanks for the generous gift. And thanks so much for taking time to highlight the issues brought up in “What’s New In LGBT Romance Fiction”. As you can tell, they mean a lot to me, and I think it’s good to visit these issues so that we keep in mind how our community is impacted by such RW issues, but also how we can create positive change. And that’s something SPRING does for me, too – bringing warmth and hope as well as renewal.

[You’re welcome, P.R. and yes, those issues mean a lot to us here too.  The LGBTQIA Book World is a small universe of authors, publishers, editors, covers artists, and promotional groups and more. All of those  have a larger impact that extends outward to current readers and, I feel, future readers that will find their books and, perhaps, recognize themselves within and see a larger universe that awaits them.  I hope so.  Thanks for all your wonderful comments!]

🎼Music of the Moment: Appalachian spring by Aaron Copland

Because I can hear the bubbling spring all along its journey and yes, everything about this piece makes me think of Spring and possibilities!

My thanks to everyone who left such wonderful comments. The winner of  What’s Old is New Again Giveaway is H.B.!.  H.B., please contact Stella at scatteredthoughtsandroguewords@gmail.com and she will hook you up with your gift certificate! Congratulations.

This Week At Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sumday. April 29:

  • Release Blitz – Corked by Brigham Vaughn
  • Tank by Nora Phoenix & K.M. Neuhold Release Blitz
  • Tis the Merry Month of May. This Week At Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Monday, April 30:

  • BLOG TOUR And The Beagle Makes Three by Geoffrey Knight
  • Exclusive Excerpt Tour MEDLEY (Changing Lanes #2) by Layla Reyne
  • Release Blitz – Sharon Maria Bidwell – Flowers For The Gardener
  • Release Blitz – A Love To Remember by Sarah Hadley Brook
  • A Lucy Review: And The Beagle Makes Three by Geoffrey Knight
  • A MelanieM Review:  Masc (Femme #2) by Marshall Thornton
  • An Alisa Review: Corked by Brigham Vaughn
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Audiobook Review: Smoldering Flame (Rekindled Flame #3) by Andrew Grey and Michael Pauley (Narrator)

Tuesday, May 1:

  • The California Dashwoods by Lisa Henry – Release Day Blitz
  • Release Blitz – Diego’s Secret by Bryan T Clark
  • Book Blitz for Astray by Elvira Bell
  • A Free Dreamer Release Day Review: The Wanderer (Chronicles of the Riftlands #1) by Rowan McAllister
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Release Day Review:  Stand By Your Manny (The Mannies #3) by Amy Lane
  • A MelanieM Release Day Review:  Forged in Fire (Asheville Arcana #2) by Ari McKay

Wednesday, May 2:

  • BLOG TOUR Hard To Get by Jaclyn Quinn
  • DSP Promo Sean Michael
  • Series Blitz – – Strain Series by Amelia Gormley
  • Release Blitz for  Forged in Fire (Asheville Arcana #2) by Ari McKay
  • A Caryn Review: Orderly Affair (Hearts & Health #6) by DJ Jamison
  • A MelanieM Release Day Review: Stand By Your Manny (The Mannies #3) by Amy Lane
  • An Alisa Review:  Rended Hearts by Riza Curtis
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Tied up by the Boss (Office Kink #2 ) by Hunter Frost

Thursday, May 3:

  • DSP Promo Elliot Joyce on In The Desert
  • Book Release Tour for Contraband Hearts by Alex Beecroft
  • Release Blitz for Machine Metal Magic by Hanna Dare
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Creature (Bureau #3) by Kim Fielding
  • A Lila Review: Fighting for You (Lifesworn #2) by Megan Derr
  • A MelanieM Review: Hard To Get by Jaclyn Quinn
  • A VVivacious Review:  The Captain and the Cavalry Trooper (The Captivating Captains #1) by Eleanor Harkstead & Catherine Curzon

Friday, May 4:

  • Erin McLellan on Life of Bliss
  • TOUR Creature by Kim Fielding
  • Release Blitz –  – Whisper by  Garrett Leigh
  • Review Tour – The Perfect Whore by Josephine Myles
  • An Ali Review: The Perfect Whore – Josephine Myles
  • An Alisa Release Day Review: In the Desert (States of Love) by Elliot Joyce
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Life of Bliss (Love Life #2) by Erin McLellan
  • A MelanieM Audiobook Review: The Hockey Player’s Heart (Hockey Hearts) by Jeff Adams and Will Knauss with Finn Sterling (Narrator)

Saturday, May 5:

  • Release Blitz Tour –  Hawk In The Rowan  by Sam Burns
  • A MelanieM Recent Release Review: Contraband Hearts (Porthkennack #10) by Alex Beecroft

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A MelanieM Review: Kelpie Blue (Out of Underhill #1) by Mell Eight

Rating: 4 stars out of 5

Mama always said, don’t go near the lake. Rin already knew the forest was filled with dark things, but aside from Mama no one had warned him about the lake. One day, Rin wanders off to the lake, where a beautiful blue horse asks him to go for a swim, and Rin learns too late it may not be a swim he survives.

I have to admit it took me a little while to connect with a character who referred to his lover as his “snack” and thought about eating him or his bone marrow.  I was dubious until about halfway through that this would have a HEA and that the old adage about creatures staying true to their nature might prove out here.  You never know….

But Kelpie Blue (Out of Underhill #1) by Mell Eight kept taking one interesting turn after another, and eventually I even enjoyed the peculiar mindset of a Kelpie (thoughts of eating humans included).

I loved the way  Mell Eight weaves the Fae and human worlds together here, connecting them through a matter of fact woman running a stables at the edge of a special forest and lake, and her son Rin.  That lake and forest are just any plain forests but the entranceway and habitat of the fae as Rin soon finds out.

Side by side with the fae story element is an ongoing one that shows Mama, who raises and races horses, having major troubles with another horse breeder.  I thought this was a terrific idea.  Just when the whole Rin/Blue aspect of the storyline gets a little overwhelming with their  diary dialog  (they write back and forth in Rin’s diary) and relationship then we cut away to Mama’s gritty real life issues and the fight to save the farm and their livelihood.

Two thirds into the story, the drama has increased, the suspense and mystery has been raised, and I was just as interested in Mama’s story as I was in Rin’s.  Plus there is this whole other guy called Jim who runs Overhill Stables….

Anyhow, by the time the book ends (it ends way too soon), you still have some questions.  Ok, a lot of questions.  Blue is still a young Kelpie and Rin is, well, a young Rin.  Both have a lot of growing to do.  I expect Fae politics to start intruding one more into their lives so I can’t wait for the next book to appear.

By the way?  Kudos to Mell Eight for keeping Blue as completely non-human and Kelpie as possible.  It takes time to relate to him precisely because the author did her job so well.  I can’t wait to see what happens as he grows, trepidations notwithstanding.  Snack indeed.

Cover art: Michelle Seaver.  Beautiful cover and works so well for the story.

Sales Links:  Less Than Three Press | Amazon

Book Details:

ebook
Published March 21st 2018 by Less Than Three Press
Original TitleKelpie Blue
ISBN139781684311989
Edition LanguageEnglish
SeriesOut of Underhill #1

Ari McKay on Mates and the new release Forged in Fire (Asheville Arcana #2) by Ari McKay (author guest blog)

Forged in Fire (Asheville Arcana #2) by Ari McKay
Dreamspinner Press
Cover Art: Aaron Anderson

Sales Links:     Dreamspinner Press | Amazon

Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words is happy to have Ari of Ari McKay here today, back talking about the second story in the Asheville Arcana series, Forged in Fire.  Welcome, Ari.

♦︎

Hello everyone! I’m Ari, of Ari McKay, and I’m really excited that Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words is hosting us for the very first blog post for the upcoming release of Forged in Fire, book two of the Asheville Arcana series from Dreamspinner Press!

If you read Out of the Ashes, book one in the series, you’re already familiar with one of our boys, Whimsy Hickes. Whimsy is a mage specializing in transformation magic, and he has been “friends with benefits” for a few years with Arden Gilmarin and Julian Schaden. But Arden found his mate, Eli Hammond, in Out of the Ashes, and Julian… well, Julian isn’t exactly the romantic sort. For the first time in a while Whimsy finds himself without the comfort and support of a lover, but he’s not really interested in hook ups. Seeing what Arden and Eli found together, he wants to find someone to love.

Enter Harlan Edgewood. Harlan is a “true” werewolf, rather than being a shapeshifter like Eli and the others. Eli was born a human, and he has bitten by a possessed wolf shifter, which turn him into a cursed creature who painfully transforms every full moon, rather than at will like the others. He’s a man who survives on the border of two worlds, the human and the shifter, without really belonging fully to either.

Harlan meets Whimsy, and Harlan feels himself drawn to the mage, his lupine half taking notice of Whimsy in a way that is both overwhelming and frightening. But it’s not until Julian angers Harlan enough to goad him into an unexpected transformation that Harlan learns the truth — his wolf wants Whimsy as its mate.

Being human, Whimsy doesn’t feel the same pull Harlan does, but he is sympathetic to what Harlan is going through. Plus, he does find Harlan attractive, and he wants to use his magic to make Harlan’s transformations easier. But while the two of them are trying to get to know one another, the danger surrounding Asheville grows stronger. The possessed shifters who attacked the Eli’s pack are back, and this time they’ve managed to possess several bear shifters. At the same time, Whimsy and the others begin to suspect that something is Not Quite Right about the Asheville Paranormal Council, most of whom seem pretty unconcerned that demons are popping up with increasing frequency.

Things quickly and frighteningly spiral out of control when Harlan is hit with a compulsion spell that puts him in mortal peril. Now Whimsy must go up against the most powerful mage in the area, in a life or death battle where not only the fate of the city hangs in the balance, but the soul of the man he’s come to love.

Whew! Lots of action and plenty of UST in this one! We hope you’ll give Forged in Fire a chance — you don’t have to have read Out of the Ashes first, though there are a few in-jokes that are funnier if you have. But if you were hoping and waiting for Whimsy to find his man, this is the story for you! ❤

BLURB:

 

The magic touch.

 

Ever since Harlan Edgewood was bitten by a possessed werewolf, his monthly shifts have been agonizing. When he meets Whimsy Hickes—a mage who specializes in transformation—the attraction is mutual. But Harlan believes his curse is too great a burden to inflict on any romantic partner.

 

Fortunately, Whimsy thinks he can help.

 

When Harlan is provoked into an unexpected change, Whimsy uses his magic to help ease Harlan’s pain, but with an unexpected consequence. While he’s shifted, Harlan’s wolf claims Whimsy as his mate.

 

As they draw closer, suspicious events in the Asheville magical community escalate. Shifters are disappearing, others are murdered, and Harlan’s curse makes him an obvious target. It will take all of Whimsy’s magic to force back the rising evil—and if he fails, Harlan will lose not only his life, but his very soul.

About the Authors

Ari McKay is the professional pseudonym for Arionrhod and McKay, who have been writing together for over a decade. Their collaborations encompass a wide variety of romance genres, including contemporary, fantasy, science fiction, gothic, and action/adventure. Their work includes the Blood Bathory series of paranormal novels, the Herc’s Mercs series, as well as two historical Westerns: Heart of Stone and Finding Forgiveness. When not writing, they can often be found scheming over costume designs or binge watching TV shows together.

Arionrhod is a systems engineer by day who is eagerly looking forward to (hopefully) becoming a full time writer in the not-too-distant future. Now that she is an empty-nester, she has turned her attentions to finding the perfect piece of land to build a fortress in preparation for the zombie apocalypse, and baking (and eating) far too many cakes.

McKay is an English teacher who has been writing for one reason or another most of her life. She also enjoys knitting, reading, cooking, and playing video games. She has been known to knit in public. Given she has the survival skills of a gnat, she’s relying on Arionrhod to help her survive the zombie apocalypse.

AUTHOR CONTACTS:

Website: http://arimckay.wordpress.com

Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ari-Mckay/266185570179748

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ari.mckay.7

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AriMcKay1

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6153630.Ari_McKay

99c Book Blast – Omega Sacrifice (Pine Creek Lake #2) by Quinn Michaels (excerpt)

BOOK BLAST

Book Title: Omega Sacrifice (Pine Creek Lake #2)

Author: Quinn Michaels

Publisher: Self-Published

Cover Artist: Quinn Michaels

Genre/s:  M/M Mpreg Romance, Mystery & Adventure

Length: 110 print pages

Blurb

Will he sacrifice his true mate for revenge?

An alpha of the Pine Creek Lake pack killed Devon’s father. But when Devon discovers his true mate amongst his enemies, will a forbidden love force Devon to choose between his pack and his heart?

Seeing the love of his life choose another, Zeke faces a bleak future as an omega with no hope of a mate. But when he stumbles into the arms of a strange and handsome alpha, is this a second chance for a happy ending? Or will he be cast aside…again?

Star-crossed mates must make the ultimate sacrifice to save each other.

Omega Sacrifice is a fast-paced, satisfying mpreg omega werewolf romance that will leave you hot and bothered with a happily ever after to melt your heart.

Short. Sweet. Steamy. No Cliffhanger.

If you love Mpreg Omega werewolf romance with knotting, true mates, and hawtness, start reading Omega Sacrifice, Book 2 of the Pine Creek Lake pack series, today!

Buy Links – Available on KU and Special 99c Offer

Amazon US

Amazon UK

Goodreads 

Excerpt

Devon froze. In his wolf sight, the omega male was a monochrome figure in gray, brown, and tan. He had a round face and light hair, escaping in scraggly curls that were tied at the nape of his neck in an elastic band. If Devon had been human, his mind might have drifted to poetry. The soft roundness of his figure was hinted at tantalizingly beneath a thin rain jacket and sodden yoga pants. His lips were full, his nose upturned endearingly at the tip.

The omega smelled like the sweetness of fresh kill, and Devon wanted to lick him. To taste him.

Stupid with desire, Devon whimpered.

This was bad. A deep, instinctual part of him recognized that the omega in front of him was his true mate.

The omega froze in place. “Who’s there?” He wiped the sleeve of his jacket over his face and blinked. Squinting into the darkness. “Hello? Who’s there?”

Devon held his breath. This omega was his true mate, and instinct demanded that Devon make his claim. But he had a job to do. If he revealed himself, he would put his entire pack in danger.

The omega sniffed the air. Between the rain and his weaker human senses, he should not have been able to smell Devon. But he tensed, and Devon recognized both fear and curiosity as the omega turned toward him. “You’re an alpha. I don’t know you.” The growing panic was evident in his tone. He would shout for help soon. Devon was surprised he hadn’t shouted yet. Maybe there was some way to salvage this. Devon shifted, and then hands raised, he stood.

Cold rain streamed down his body. Though Devon knew he lacked the essential viciousness that made an alpha truly strong, none of that was reflected in his body. A surge of pride washed over him as the omega’s lips parted, and his eyes grew wide, and Devon smelled his desire.

“I’m Devon.”

“Ezekiel. Zeke. Your, um…” Zeke ran his tongue between his lips, and imagining that tongue in those lips on him made Devon’s cock swell.

Devon kicked himself. He should have stayed hidden. He should have killed Zeke before the omega had seen him. But Zeke was his true mate, and even if he hadn’t been, Devon didn’t have it in him to kill an innocent omega in cold blood. He wasn’t his father. He wasn’t his grandfather. Which meant Devon would have to take Zeke with him, at least until all of this was over.

Zeke was his true mate, and there was no way he was going to let the omega come to harm.

But first, he had to make Zeke comfortable enough to trust him.

“I have some clothes in this backpack,” Devon said, shrugging his shoulders. “Do you mind if—?”

“Yeah! You should do that!” Zeke swallowed. “Not that I mind looking at you. I mean, you’re really hot and—” He shook his head, and judging by the tint of embarrassment in his scent, Devon guessed that Zeke had flushed as well.

It was perfect. And terrifying.

About the author 

Pennsylvania native, Quinn Michaels is a fan of fantasy, werewolves and M/M mpreg romance! She strives to write  action-packed adventures of romance, self-discovery and second chances, all served up with a hefty helping of sweet, sexy Omegas and hot, determined Alphas who will do anything to cherish, love, and protect their mates. She also enjoys the sexytimes!

Sign up for Quinn’s mailing list and get updates at http://quinnmichaelsauthor.com

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