Vampire's Thirst Blog Tour Giveaway & Sneak Peek with Cynthia Garner

About the Author:

Cynthia Garner

Follow her on Twitter: @CynthiaGarner

Check out her website: http://cynthiagarnerbooks.com/

Cynthia Garner discovered her love for making up stories when her sixth grade teacher told the class to write a story that began, “It was a dark and stormy night…” With that, Cynthia's love for all things paranormal was born.

When she's not working her day job as a mostly mild-mannered human resources manager, she's on her laptop writing or playing way too much Solitaire. Originally from Northeast Ohio, Cynthia now lives in the desert Southwest. (Information obtained from the back of her book 'Kiss of the Vampire') Cynthia also writes erotic romances under the pen name Sherrill Quinn.

About the Awakening Series:  

Vampire's Hunger (The Awakening #1)

(Read my review HERE)

THE AWAKENING

In a post-apocalyptic wasteland, civilization no longer exists, and only the strongest survive. The few remaining humans must band together with supernatural beings to battle unspeakable evil—or all hope will be lost.

Kimber Treat is an ordinary woman with an extraordinary gift: she can raise the dead. As a necromancer who works with the police, she communicates with murder victims to bring their killers to justice. But after a normal session goes horribly wrong, Kimber realizes she's summoned something dark and sinister. She's unwittingly unleashed the apocalypse, and everyone blames her . . . except Duncan MacDonnough, the devastatingly handsome vampire she can't stop fantasizing about.

As society shuts down and flesh-eating hordes close in, Duncan vows to protect Kimber. He can keep her safe from others—but not from the insatiable carnal hunger he feels for her. Now racing to reverse the chaos she's unleashed, Kimber can't afford any distractions. But even as she succumbs to Duncan's seduction, she fears that he has a hidden agenda. And with the line between life and death starting to blur, his secrets might kill her-or worse . . .

Vampire's Thrist (The Awakening, 2):

Starting where Book 1 left off, Duncan MacDonnough has assumed leadership of the local vampire conclave and changes are being met with resistance.

Kimber Treat, the necromancer everyone (including her) blames for starting the zombie apocalypse in the first place. Duncan and Kimber are new in their love and the complications of zombies and hungry vampires puts stress on an already shaky relationship. Duncan wants to keep her safe, but Kimber still believes she can end the Outbreak. Will the cost be too great?

Excerpt from Vampire's Thirst:

     Duncan watched Kimber tend to the wounds she inflicted and wondered at her attitude. This was the second time they’d made love in the last few days, and both times he’d seen her struggle to contain a new level of aggression. She wouldn’t talk to him about it, though, and it was making him crazy. How could he be an effective leader if he couldn’t even help his own lover?
     He waited until she’d capped the bottle of peroxide and set the first-aid kit on the bedside table before he said, “Talk to me, Kimber. Tell me what’s going on with you.”
    She heaved a sigh and got to her feet. Going over to his dresser, she pulled out one of his T-shirts and slipped it over her head. She usually wasn’t uncomfortable being nude around him, so her action told him what they were about to deal with wasn’t going to be pleasant. Was she tired of being with him? Had he been too dominant in their lovemaking?
     “Kimber?” The waiting was hell on his nerves.
     “The day before yesterday, when we went out for tampons?” She glanced at him. When he nodded, she went on. “You know on our way back we were attacked by zombies.”
    “Yes, Atticus told me. I came up here to see how you were doing, but you were already asleep. I didn’t want to wake you. Then you were gone later that night when I woke up.” He watched her to gauge her reaction.
    She gave a slight wince. “Yes, well, I had things to do.” She waved one hand in the air. “That doesn’t matter. What does matter is that when we were fighting the zombies, I stumbled, and when I flung out my arm to try to keep my balance, I ended up grabbing hold of Atticus.” She looked at him. “Atticus didn’t tell you any of this?”
      He frowned. “He told me you had to fight zombies, that you were successful, and everyone was all right. Was there more he should have told me?”
     She shook her head. “No. I mean, there was more, but I asked him to let me tell you.” She blew out a breath. “When I grabbed him, I drew energy from him and it allowed me to push the Unseen out of the zombies. You should have seen them drop to the ground.”
     “You did what?” He straightened from his slouched position against the headboard. He couldn’t have heard her right. She attacked his second-in-command?
     “I didn’t do it on purpose,” she said. “He must have seen me stumble and reached out to help me at the same time I flung my hand out. Once I had hold of him and the power transfer started, I couldn’t let go. I tried, Duncan.” Her eyes went round and pleading, and her lower lip got a slight tremble to it. “It hurt, just like before, but it…” She clamped her jaw shut.
     “It what?”
     “It felt good, too. It was power, and it was mine.” She began to pace the room, her hands gesturing wildly. “This could be something big, Duncan. If all necromancers have this ability, we could end the apocalypse.”
     He got off the bed and pulled on his jeans. “And just how many vampires do you propose we sacrifice?”
She came to a stop and stared at him. “It wouldn’t have to be a sacrifice. I didn’t kill Atticus.”
     “But you came close, didn’t you? Or you could have,” he amended. At her stubborn expression, he said, “I know you, Kimber. I know the kind of power you have. Plus you have some of the Unseen in you. How did that affect what happened with Atticus? Or did it happen with Atticus because of the Unseen in you?”
     Her shoulders slumped. “I don’t know.”
     He studied her for a minute, then left the bedroom. He strode through the living room and yanked open the door to the hallway. “Find Atticus and bring him here,” he said to the guards. Without waiting for a response, he closed the door. When he turned around, he saw Kimber standing in front of the sofa, twisting her fingers together. She’d pulled on her jeans but still wore his T-shirt.
     Her auburn hair, tousled and silky-looking, cascaded around her shoulders. “I didn’t do it on purpose, Duncan,” she whispered. Her teeth dug into her lower lip. “I wouldn’t do something like that. You have to believe me.”
     “I’d like to believe you, sweetheart. I would.” He walked over and put his hands on her shoulders, giving them a slight squeeze. “But I’ve seen how you’ve changed. I’ve seen you fight whatever is rising in you. I think if a situation presented itself and you believed taking energy from a vampire was the only solution, I’m not sure you could stop yourself.”
     A knock sounded on the door, and it swung open to reveal Atticus.
     “Come in,” Duncan invited. When the door closed behind his second-in-command, Duncan said, “Kimber just told me what happened on your way back from the drugstore.”
     Atticus shot a glance her way but said nothing.
     “This is a serious development,” Duncan went on, “and poses a potential threat to all vampires. I want all necromancers under guard until further notice. Let everyone know they’re considered dangerous and should not be touched under any circumstances.”
     Atticus inclined his head. “Understood and agreed.” With another glance at Kimber, he departed.
     “Does that include me?” Kimber asked, her voice hard. “Am I to be kept under guard? Am I not to be touched?”
     He clenched his teeth. “If you’re not with me, then, yes, you will have a guard. And anyone else will be advised not to touch you, but you and I will definitely be skin to skin, sweetheart. You can count on that.”
     “Don’t be so sure,” she said. “I’m not just any other necromancer, Duncan. I’m the woman who loves you. The woman you claim to love.” Her fists clenched at her sides and he had the distinct impression she was fighting throwing a punch at him. After a few seconds she let out a little growl and headed back toward the bedroom. Over her shoulder she threw out, “You’re treating me like a monster. The way I’m feeling right now, that might be an accurate assessment. You might not be safe from me.”

(Excerpt used with permission of the publisher.)

~ Giveaway # 1 ~

a Rafflecopter giveaway

~ Giveaway # 2 ~

A digital loan of Vampire's Thirst via NetGalley

Please note this copy, once downloaded, needs to be read within 55 days after which the loan expires.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Release Day Review of Vampire's Thirst (Awakening, #2) by Cynthia Garner

Title: Vampire's Thirst (The Awakening Series)
Classification: Adult Fiction
Genre: Paranormal Romance/Erotic?
Series: The Awakening Series
Format: Paperback: 224 pages
Publisher: Forever Yours (May 6, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1455552607
ISBN-13: 978-1455552603
Author's Website: http://cynthiagarnerbooks.com/
Notes: I received and eARC loan from the publisher.

The zombie apocalypse is going strong. Duncan is adjusting to his new role as Vampire King and is trying to keep moral up while attempting to keep the peace between the humans and vampires. Humans are volunteering to become blood donors for vampires in exchange for protection. They're also becoming restless and resent being cooped up and unable to get out. While their confinement is for their own protection, it does get a bit monotonous, but when even the smallest runs to get supplies more times than not ends in someone dying, it can't be helped. 

While tensions are running high, Kimber feels responsible for the apocalypse and keeps trying to figure out what caused it so she can reverse it. One thing appears clear--the darkness that escaped during a reanimation gone wrong has to be pushed back into the Unseen. In order to do that, she needs to experiment on zombies. Afraid to confide in Duncan her theory of how to reverse the situation, their relationship will be put to the test. If a reversal of what happened can't be accomplished, the whole world will be doomed. While it sounds simple--cure the zombies save the world--it's anything but and Kimber will put her life on the line.

Another entertaining read by Ms. Garner. Vampire's Thirst picks up shortly after Vampire's Hunger left off. If you haven't read Vampire's Hunger, I recommend you do. It's a quick read and will make the reading of this book more enjoyable.

Things look bleak as the number of humans decreases as the number of zombies increases. As supplies begin to grow short, alternative methods of gaining food are explored. Safety is the priority and everything done takes careful planning. Meanwhile, Duncan's human donor plan is starting to gain the attention of other vampire leaders. Willing donors are a novelty, and while vampires seem to enjoy and benefit from it, humans are only agreeing because the alternative almost surely would lead to death by zombie.

I like the stress and tension everything brings to the oh so new relationship between Duncan and Kimber. Insecurities and misunderstandings develop between the two as obligations and loyalties pull them apart and make them see how different their lives are. As with any good relationship, it takes work, commitment, and communication. I like that Ms. Garner didn't make things super easy on this couple.

Overall, I really liked the story and gave it 3 1/2 out of 5 roses. There was one discrepancy I found between the first book and this one. In the first book it was stated vampires couldn't become zombies. They just suffered horrible pain. In this book, it was said they'd become a sort of super zombie retaining all their vampire speed and strength. It didn't affect the outcome of this book, but I'm curious about any future books. Of course, as I was reading an ARC, the author may have righted this error before the book goes to print. I'll be curious to see if she does. If not, I supposed in the third book she could claim at first they thought they couldn't be turned until they found out differently. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one earned a SHOWER rating--a cold shower is necessary (need I say more?). Some books should come with a warning--make sure your significant other is handy or your shower is in working order. lol  As with the first book in the series, Vampire's Hunger, I felt the love scenes combined with the colorful language used had this one leaning toward an erotic read, but poised precariously on the fence.

Order of the series:

Vampire's Hunger (Awakening #1) by Cynthia Garner

Title: Vampire's Hunger (The Awakening Series)
Classification: Adult Fiction
Genre: Paranormal Romance/Erotic?
Series: The Awakening Series
Format: Paperback; 224 pages
Publisher: Forever Yours (April 1, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1455557706
ISBN-13: 978-1455557707

Author's Website: http://cynthiagarnerbooks.com/

Notes: I received and eARC loan from the publisher.

"Hear me Richard Whitcomb. I call you from beyond. I call you to journey from the Unsee to the Seen. By blood and magic I summon you. Arise, Richard. Arise. Come to me now."

Kimber Treat is a necromancer who works with the police to solve murders which might otherwise go unsolved. She reanimates the dead and is able to gain the answers to questions no other person could know. Sometimes gleaning the motives and name of the killer. Once information is acquired, the dead are laid to back to rest. Reanimations are not always pleasant or easy as sometimes the dead have a hard time remembering what happened or dealing with their demise. With her latest reanimation, Kimberly immediately senses something isn't right. She feels a surge of power course into her from the Unseen, the shadowy place where all life begins and ends. She senses John Whitcomb isn't the only one residing in his body. With some extra help and effort from the Medical Examiner's staff Richard permanently enters his eternal slumber, but not before one of the doctors is bitten. What no one realizes at the time, however, is the beginning of  a zombie apocalypse had just been set into motion. The world as we knew it has just come to an end.

Awakening is an interesting new series, and I'm curious to see how it will evolve. From the first pages of the book, we get a first hand account of how the zombie apocalypse begins. Something in the Unseen is wrong and has brought darkness into the human realm via the reanimation of the dead. While a vampire can't become a zombie, no one is completely immune to the zombies. Vampires are the least vulnerable but can die a horrible death from whatever infects/possesses the zombies. Additionally, they are able to use their strength, agility and speed to their advantage. In a short period of time, the condition spreads as zombies bite and infect more people.

Kimber is put in a very difficult situation as Duncan, a vampire she's known for the past two years, tries to convince her to resurrect a vampire who's been dead for over a hundred years for the vampire Queen. Already knowing something isn't right with the Unseen and compounded with the fact reanimating someone who has been dead as long as Eduardo (the vampire Queen's mate) has been would not bring back the individual back as they once were, she refuses. Now Duncan will have to decide where his loyalties lie--with his Queen or with the woman who he feels strongly for and has let down in the past. He has a clear cut decision to make because most likely one will have to die.

Overall I gave this one 3 1/2 out of 5 roses. I enjoyed the book, but didn't feel we got to know the characters as well as I'd like. The mutual attraction is very strong and I wish we'd gotten to see it develop from the very first moment these two met, or at least got the full story of what originally happened. I kept wondering if this couple were somehow connected to Cynthia's other series, Warriors of the Rift, but after racking my brain I couldn't recall them. I'd love to see a prequel novella about how these two met and what happened. Perhaps we'll learn more in one of the next books? On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one earned a SHOWER rating--a cold shower is necessary (need I say more?). Some books should come with a warning--make sure your significant other is handy or your shower is in working order. lol I felt the love scenes combined with the colorful language used had this one leaning toward an erotic read, but poised precariously on the fence.

Order of the series

Heart of Darkness Blog Tour/giveaway and Top Five Reasons to Love a Bad Boy

Kendra Leigh Castle

Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/KendraLCastle

Follow her on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kendraleighcastle

Check out her website: http://kendraleighcastle.com/

Kendra Leigh Castle was born and raised in the far and frozen reaches of Northern New York, where there was plenty of time to cultivate her love of reading thanks to the six-month-long winters. Sneaking off with selections from her mother’s vast collection of romance novels came naturally and fairly early, and a lifelong love of the Happily Ever After was born. After graduating from SUNY Oswego (where it also snowed a lot) with a teaching degree, Kendra ran off with a handsome young Navy fighter pilot and has somehow accumulated three children, three dogs, and one enormous cat during their many moves.

While stationed in a remote corner of the Nevada desert, Kendra penned her first romance, and a career often spent working in fuzzy slippers and pajamas was born. Her work has garnered both critical praise and award nominations, but the best part has been connecting with readers who share her love of dark romance (not to mention heroes with sharp, pointed teeth). Kendra currently lives in Maryland, and can usually be found curled up with her laptop and yet another cup of coffee working on her next book. She loves to hear from her readers, and can be contacted via email or her Facebook page. (Information gotten off of Kendra's website)

The Dark Dynasties Series

Dark Awakening (Dark Dynasties #1)
Enter the world of the Dark Dynasties...

For centuries, shapeshifting vampire Tynan MacGillivray has prowled the night as an outcast, valued only for his ferocious hunting skills. When a feud among the immortals escalates into all-out war, he is ordered by his ruthless queen to locate a Seer - a human woman with a special gift - who can secure victory for their clan. Ty's search leads him to a quiet New England town, but once he has the Seer in his grasp, her touch awakens within him a hunger like he's never known...

Lily Quinn has always been different. Since childhood, she's had vivid nightmares and an eerie sixth sense. When a sexy, silver-eyed stranger demands her help, Lily plunges into a new world of danger and sensuality. With Ty, she discovers sizzling passions she cannot deny and powers she cannot control. Soon, it is clear that Lily is much more than a Seer - she holds the key to ancient secrets and unthinkable destruction. But will a vampire's vow of eternal protection stop these evil forces...or unleash her dark destiny?

Midnight Reckoning (Dark Dynasties #2)
Two separate worlds ...

One passion that binds them

Wild and passionate by nature, Lyra Black is not just any werewolf. She's the future leader of the powerful pack of the Thorn - if she can stay alive long enough to inherit the title.

One of the Cait Sith bloodline of vampire cat-shifters, Jaden Harrison has no interest in the wars plaguing the world of night. But when he rescues Lyra from a violent attack, they're both captured by an insatiable desire that threatens to overwhelm them and bind them together for eternity... just as ancient enemies prepare to strike. And when they do, the Thorn and the Cait Sith - and Lyra and Jaden's love - may never recover from the deadly blow...
(Please note both descriptions were taken from the back of the respective books.)

Shadow Rising (Dark Dynasties #3)

Ancient Secrets, Dark Passions...

As one of the Grigori, a noble vampire dynasty shrouded in mystery, Ariane has spent her life hidden away in the desert. Like all of her kind, she is a watcher, fated to observe, forbidden to act. Yet when her best friend, Sammael, vanishes, she defies all rules and flees her safe haven to bring him home.

A shape-shifting assassin for the House of Shadows, Damien Tremaine is hired to locate Sammael. His hunt for the wayward Grigori leads him to Ariane, the rogue vamp who stands between him and his bounty. Damien never lets emotion interfere with his work, but a single touch from the sexy, beguiling vampire shatters his self-control. Drawn together by their common goal, what begins as an alliance of necessity soon becomes one of desire. But when the secret at the dark heart of the Grigori comes to light, Damien and Ariane must make a choice that could bind them eternally...or tear them—and everything they care about—apart.

Immortal Craving (Dark Dynasties #4)

The last-and most lethal-of his kind . . .

Wild, uncontrollable, and powerful, the lion-shifting Rakshasa were hunted down by vicious rival vampires who feared their dark, magical abilities. Somehow one survived, and now, after centuries of hiding, Tasmin Singh reemerges as fierce and fearless as ever at the door of the Lilim queen, seeking answers . . . and sanctuary.

The human best friend to a vampire queen, Bay Harper traded her quiet, comfortable life for a world filled with immortal assassins, warring werewolves . . . and this hauntingly sexy shifter. Only Bay's gentle touch can subdue Tasmin's inner demons, even as he brings out a passion and sensuality she never imagined she could feel. But when a bloody struggle threatens to tear them apart, can Bay risk everything on her faith in him-or will his dark side be stronger than even their all-consuming desire?

Cynthia Garner

Follow her on Twitter: @CynthiaGarner

Check out her website: http://cynthiagarnerbooks.com/

Cynthia Garner discovered her love for making up stories when her sixth grade teacher told the class to write a story that began “It was a dark and stormy night…” With that Cynthia's love for all things paranormal was born. When she's not working her day job as a mostly mild-mannered human resources manager, she's on her laptop writing or playing way too much Solitaire. Originally from Northeast Ohio, Cynthia now lives in the desert Southwest. (Information obtained from the back of her current book 'Kiss of the Vampire') For your information, Cynthia also writes erotic romances under the pen name Sherrill Quinn.

The Warriors of the Rift Series

Kiss of the Vampire
(Warriors of the Rift #1)

Once a generation, the rift between the paranormal world and the human world opens, allowing supernatural entities to cross. Vampire, demon, or shapeshifter, they can save the world-or send it spiraling into chaos. 

Half-demon, half-human, Nix de la Fuente is accepted by neither and mistrusted by both. Determined to prove she's more human than not, she devotes herself to solving crimes between the world's mortals and its most unsavory undead. But her latest case brings her face to face with the one vampire she could never resist . . .

Called in to investigate a string of violent murders, special agent Tobias Caine isn't interested in rekindling his relationship with Nix. Yet one look and the vampire knows his need for her is as strong as ever. Once, their all-consuming passion nearly cost Nix her fragile hold on her humanity. Now, as their hunger for one another intensifies, exposing them to an unimaginable danger, it could cost them both their lives.

           Secret of the Wolf
     (Warriors of the Rift #2)

Once a generation, the rift between the paranormal world and the human world opens, allowing supernatural entities to cross. Vampire, demon, or shapeshifter, they can save the world-or send it spiraling into chaos.

As a werewolf liaison to the Council of Preternaturals, Tori Joseph is used to straddling the world between humans and immortals. She plays by the rules and always delivers justice, no matter the cost. But after a string of increasingly brutal attacks results in humans turning into werewolves, Tori doesn't reveal her horrifying suspicion: Someone very close to her might be responsible.

Investigating the paranormal violence, no-nonsense detective Dante MacMillan believes Tori is hiding something. His search for the truth draws him into greater danger as he gets closer to the dark realm of the immortals-and to the sexy werewolf who stirs his primal lust. Now with evil closing in around them, Dante must convince Tori to trust him . . . before her deadly secret destroys them both.

       Heart of the Demon 
    (Warriors of the Rift #3)

Once a generation, the rift between the paranormal world and the human world opens, allowing supernatural entities to cross. Vampire, demon, or shapeshifter, they can save the world—or send it spiraling into chaos.

The next opening of the rift is coming—and its consequences will be deadly. A rogue group of human-hating preternaturals is planning an apocalyptic attack, but the Council of Preternaturals may have found the key to saving the world: Keira O'Brien, a fey with a long criminal record, whose empathic abilities once made her the queen of con artists. If she successfully infiltrates the dangerous faction, the sins of her past will be forgiven.

Keira isn't the only agent working against the rogue prets. Finn Evnissyen, a powerful demon with a dark lineage, is a hired assassin looking for a way out. If he stops the threat, he will finally earn his freedom. As the rift fast approaches, and danger escalates, Finn and Keira must discover if they're on the same side—or sleeping with the enemy . .

KENDRA’S TOP 5 REASONS TO LOVE A BAD BOY 

1. Leather pants. Even if he doesn’t wear them, you know he could…and that they would look amazing on him.

2. His brooding is more sultry than annoying.

3. He always gets what he wants, come hell or high water—and what he wants is you.

4. Not everyone gets a tender lover, devoted mate, and complete badass all in one delicious package. It’s heady stuff.

5. It’ll take quite a woman to redeem him. But if you’re up to the task, the rewards far outweigh the risks.

Want to learn more about my Dark Dynasties series or drop me a line? Head over to www.KendraLeighCastle.com.

I love to hear from readers! Follow me on Twitter @KendraLCastle and Facebook.com/kendraleighcastle

CYNTHIA'S TOP 5 REASONS TO LOVE A BAD BOY 

What is it about bad boys that draw women so much? Why aren’t some of us satisfied with the guy who has a good job, is caring, gentle and is just an all around nice guy?

Let’s see if we can break it down to the top five reasons bad boys are so attractive to the female gender:

1. Bad boys are confident. Not just around women, but in everything they do. They eat their eggs and bacon with confidence. They walk with confidence—a swagger, if you will. They know what they want and exactly how to get it, and that is a big turn-on to something a little primitive in all of us.

2. Bad boys don’t give a damn. About anything. They chat you up and you act like you’re not interested? Fine. They move on to the next woman. They’re not looking for a serious relationship, and if you’re a woman who’s been hurt by love, or just not ready to commit to anything serious, that’s mighty attractive.

3. Bad boys are ultra masculine. They are strong and dominant. As much as women want and deserve to be paid the same as a man performing the same job, and have the opportunity to do the same jobs as men, we still want a mate who, if the zombie apocalypse happens, can help protect and provide for us.

4. Bad boys are exciting, mysterious and maybe even a little dangerous. Most of us have lives that are fairly ordinary—we go to work, we run errands, we go home. Lather, rinse & repeat the next day. A bad boy will keep you guessing. He lives his life on the edge and he’s a rebel. He spices things up in what might otherwise be a boring life.

5. Bad boys present a challenge. Most women don’t like men who are pushovers. If I may be a little frank, I don’t want to feel like I have bigger balls than the man I’m with. And there’s the challenge—the give and take, the push and pull in a relationship. I don’t want to always win an argument just because he gives up or won’t voice an opinion in the first place.

What do you think? What other traits would you add to this list?

~ GIVEAWAY ~

I'm giving away to ONE winners one copy of Heart of the Demon by Cynthia Garner -AND- one copy of Immortal Craving by Kendra Leigh Castle.

Rules for eligibility:

Only residents of the US who are 18 or older are eligible.

Please leave either your email address so I may get in contact with you to get your mailing address. **No P.O. Boxes, please**.

Become a follower of my blog, if you aren't already. (required)

Winner will be randomly chosen. Giveaway ends February 21st, midnight eastern time. Only one winner per person and per address. Winners will be posted on my blog and notified by email or message posted to them via Goodreads. Winners will have 48 hours to respond before another winner will be selected. Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Heart of the Demon (Warriors of the Rift, #3) by Cynthia Garner

• Title: Heart of the Demon (Warriors of the Rift)
• Classification: Adult Fiction
• Genre: Urban Fantasy
• Format: Paperback, 368 pages
• Publisher: Forever (February 26, 2013)
• ISBN-10: 0446585130
• ISBN-13: 978-0446585132
• Author's Website: http://cynthiagarnerbooks.com/

 Countdown--Four Months

"We want you to infiltrate a rogue group that's planning something big at the next Influx."

Every 73 years the Moore-Creasy-Devon Comet creates a dimensional Rift as it makes its way across the solar system. When that happens supernatural being ascend upon the earth hijacking human bodies thereby taking control and suppressing the human being that once possessed it. Referred to as the Influx, it has been happening for years and no one can predict who the preternatural body snatchers (aka EDs - Extra Dimensionals) will take over until the full possession takes place. Some of the EDs are political exiles, some have left for religious reasons, but the majority were banned from their world for being criminals of the worst kind. Many see this as their second chance and attempt to reform and meld into society while others don't wish to give up their bad habits. It's the latter that the Council of Preternaturals hope to stop.

Recently, however, it has come to the attention of the Council that a group of rogue preternaturals is building a device that could potentially open the rift on its own or prolong the opening of the coming rift allowing more EDs to pass through.  They've asked Finn Evnissye to infiltrate the group and prevent that from happening. Being as he's Lucifer's enforcer and he's made his dissatisfaction with his job known, he should have an easy time infiltrating the group.

Keira O'Brien has also been asked to investigate the rogue group. She's on a secret mission for Caladh MacLoch who was a senior member of the Council of Preternaturals. He fears someone in the council is leaking information to the rogue group. No one but Caladh will know of her mission. If her cover is blown she'll be left to her own devices to get herself out of trouble.

Both have been warned to tell no one of their mission.

 Both will think the other is involved. 

Will a little thing like love get in the way?

This is the third book of the Warriors of the Rift series. I would recommend reading the previous books in the series first or you'll miss all the links to the previous characters in the series. I was pleasantly surprised that all the previous couples popped in and made an appearance in this book. It's fun knowing how characters fair after their stories have been told.

I have to say I love a redeemable bad boy and Finn fits the bill. He is the ultimate bad boy or so his image projects. He's Lucifer's (yes, that Lucifer) son and his enforcer. He knows how to fight and he inherited some mad skills from his mother. He's part chameleon and can fully or partially shift into any preternatural being, yet maintains his own individuality. In other words, I don't believe he can change his appearance to look like another individual. He can just take on any or all of the traits of a human or supernatural being. Just imagine being able to use the senses or powers of any preternatural being you can imagine. That would be pretty awesome.

Said to be the essence of femininity--soft and seemingly delicate with red hair and a sultry smile, Keira was a grifter in another life and dimension. Scamming individuals out of things came naturally to her. By using slight of hand, charm, wit and her ability to read and manipulate the thoughts and emotions of others she could get just about anything she liked. The latter talent being part of the skill set she inherited with her fey heritage. She was sent through the rift over three thousand years ago in 1419 BC and is set on reforming her ways. She keeps telling herself she's going undercover for the good of others, but secretly fears she'll pick up her her old trade and run with it. She's not proud of what she's done, but given the time periods she's lived in there weren't many ways for a single young woman to make a living. There is no denying how addictive or easily running a con comes to her. She just hopes once her task is complete she can quit cold turkey.

The romance between these two was hot and undeniable. While they may seem to have little in common, both seem to want similar things even if they can't see it at the beginning of the story. I loved the fact each was torn between revealing their true reasons for infiltrating the rogue group and not wanting to blow their cover. I liked how both Keira and Finn approached the relationship with caution and tried to downplay their feelings.

Additionally, I loved how we found out a little more about how the preternatural take over a host. We still haven't gotten the full picture, but I look forward to finding out more about it. I keep wondering isn't there some way for a person to avoid getting possessed and could a victim potentially overtake their body snatcher?  Are their any humans who are immune from possession? Does the host actually die at possession or are they just silent co-inhibitors of their bodies? Additionally, I liked the question posed about whether it could be possible, if the right technology could be created, for people/preternaturals to cross through to the other dimension from earth? That would be interesting

Overall, I gave this one 4 out of 5 roses. It had a fast pace with a nice blend of romance, action and suspense. I loved both Finn and Keira and how they kept being thrown together. I liked Keira's snarky nature and  seeing her and Finn use their unique skills. I also enjoyed the twist at the end that I didn't see coming. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one gets a STEAM rating--too hot for a fan, but you still have a handle on things. You should use extreme caution when reading a book with this rating in public. People may inquire as to why you looked flustered and flushed.

Order of the Series:

Secret of the Wolf (Warriors of the Rift, #2) by Cynthia Garner

• Title: Secret of the Wolf (Warriors of the Rift)
• Classification: Adult Fiction
• Gener: Urban Fantasy
• Format: Paperback, 336 pages
• Publisher: Forever (June 26, 2012)
• ISBN-10: 0446585122
• ISBN-13: 978-0446585125
• Author's Website:  http://cynthiagarnerbooks.com/  
• Notes: Books for this book tour never made their way to me from the publisher and I ended up buying them. That is why this review is being created and posted later than I planned. I just purchased this one last night. Hopefully I'll do the book justice while suffering from lack of sleep. lol Oh the suffering we'll endure for the love of a good book. lol

Victoria (Tori) Joseph is a preternatural (pret) that crossed over to our dimension during the influx of 1866. Every 73 years the Moore-Creasy-Devon Comet creates a dimensional Rift as it makes its way across the solar system. When that happens supernatural being ascend upon the earth hijacking human bodies thereby taking control and suppressing the human being that once possessed it. Referred to as the Influx, it has been happening for years and no one can predict what supernatural creatures these body snatchers (aka EDs - Extra Dimensionals) will become until the full possession takes place. Some are political exiles, some have left for religious reasons, but the majority were banned from their world for being criminals of the worst kind. Many see this as their second chance and attempt to reform and meld into society while others don't wish to give up their bad habits. It's the latter that the Council of Preternaturals hope to stop.

Tori is the werewolf liaison to the Council of Preternatural. A werewolf appears to be terrorizing the Scottsdale area leaving behind no DNA evidence. The rogue, as it's believed to be, is dousing the wounds of the victim with bleach and sprinking the area with ammonia to hinder the scent trail he or she may have left behind. The attacks appear to be random, but aimed at changing humans to werewolves. With each new attack the violence seems to escalate. Tori and others of the Council have been brought in to help investigate the attacks and find the attacker. 

Besides trying to save the world from rogue werewolves, Tori is also attempting to figure out how a device that Tobais stole communicates between our world and the preternatural dimension. Not only did Tobias manage to take the device, but he also managed to snatch the schematics for it. Tori was a radio communication technician during World War II and it was hoped she could figure out how the device works, but she quickly realizes the device seems to function more like a computer than like a radio. That goes well beyond her area of expertise. She'll have to ask Dante, the tall dark and sexy human cop, who has a better grasp on the workings of a computer for help. Oh the things one must do for their jobs. Sometimes you've just got to grin and bear it.     

______________________

I am truly loving this series and the spin Ms. Garner put on where paranormal beings come from. 'Secret of the Wolf' takes place a month after 'Kiss of the Vampire' ends. Tobais and Nix are now married and we get a glimpse of how Nix is dealing with her newly made vampire half. Additionally, there are only a few months left before the Rift is once again opened allowing new prets to snatch the bodies of defenseless humans. Tensions are running high and the question of who and how many people will be taken over permeates the atmosphere. 

Tori is a loyal, smart and strong woman. She's recently been reunited with her brother whom she hasn't seen in nearly a hundred and fifty years. In 1866, when they'd first crossed over into this world, there was no way to find your friends or relatives who'd crossed over with you. She's now attempting to reestablish her relationship with him. She's ecstatic about reconnecting with him. She'd missed having family around.

Dante is a cop who's very family oriented and an all around good guy. He's also led Tori on a merry dance as whenever the two start to get close, he starts to pull away. He's partly leery of her preternatural state and partly afraid he doesn't have the time to commit himself totally to a relationship. He's been taking care of his sister who'd recently survived a bought with breast cancer and a divorce.  He also fears what will happen when the Rift opens up. What if he's overtaken by a pret? Does he take a chance at Tori's heart being broken or live in the moment while he still can? 

Why is the book called 'Secret of the Wolf'? Well, I believe it's because Tori (a wereWOLF) sits on some information that might help capture the rogue werewolf. She doesn't want to make any harsh decisions until she has something a little more solid to go on. She'll have to live with the consequences of her actions if her suspicions turn out to be correct.

Overall, I gave this one 5 out of 5 roses. I'm thoroughly enjoying the world Ms. Garner has created. I'm intrigued as to how the Rift will affect everything when it finally comes to be. I loved the quick pace, all the action and drama, and the mystery of who was converting people to werewolves and why. I loved witnessing the sexual tension between Dante and Tori that is so strong everyone around them could practically feel the heat from it. While I still have many questions as to how everything dealing with prets works, I'm hopeful we'll get closer to the answers with the next book. This is a series I HIGHLY recommend. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one scored a STEAM rating--too hot for a fan, but you still have a handle on things. You should use extreme caution when reading a book with this rating in public. People may inquire as to why you looked flustered and flushed.

Order of Series:

Giveaway - Forever's Darkness Falls Blog Tour

Kendra Leigh Castle

Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/KendraLCastle

Follow her on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kendraleighcastle

Check out her website: http://kendraleighcastle.com/

Kendra Leigh Castle was born and raised in the far and frozen reaches of Northern New York, where there was plenty of time to cultivate her love of reading thanks to the six-month-long winters. Sneaking off with selections from her mother’s vast collection of romance novels came naturally and fairly early, and a lifelong love of the Happily Ever After was born. After graduating from SUNY Oswego (where it also snowed a lot) with a teaching degree, Kendra ran off with a handsome young Navy fighter pilot and has somehow accumulated three children, three dogs, and one enormous cat during their many moves.

While stationed in a remote corner of the Nevada desert, Kendra penned her first romance, and a career often spent working in fuzzy slippers and pajamas was born. Her work has garnered both critical praise and award nominations, but the best part has been connecting with readers who share her love of dark romance (not to mention heroes with sharp, pointed teeth). Kendra currently lives in Maryland, and can usually be found curled up with her laptop and yet another cup of coffee working on her next book. She loves to hear from her readers, and can be contacted via email or her Facebook page. (Information gotten off of Kendra's website)

The Dark Dynasties Series

Dark Awakening (Dark Dynasties #1)
Enter the world of the Dark Dynasties...

For centuries, shapeshifting vampire Tynan MacGillivray has prowled the night as an outcast, valued only for his ferocious hunting skills. When a feud among the immortals escalates into all-out war, he is ordered by his ruthless queen to locate a Seer - a human woman with a special gift - who can secure victory for their clan. Ty's search leads him to a quiet New England town, but once he has the Seer in his grasp, her touch awakens within him a hunger like he's never known...

Lily Quinn has always been different. Since childhood, she's had vivid nightmares and an eerie sixth sense. When a sexy, silver-eyed stranger demands her help, Lily plunges into a new world of danger and sensuality. With Ty, she discovers sizzling passions she cannot deny and powers she cannot control. Soon, it is clear that Lily is much more than a Seer - she holds the key to ancient secrets and unthinkable destruction. But will a vampire's vow of eternal protection stop these evil forces...or unleash her dark destiny?

Midnight Reckoning (Dark Dynasties #2)
Two separate worlds ...

One passion that binds them

Wild and passionate by nature, Lyra Black is not just any werewolf. She's the future leader of the powerful pack of the Thorn - if she can stay alive long enough to inherit the title.

One of the Cait Sith bloodline of vampire cat-shifters, Jaden Harrison has no interest in the wars plaguing the world of night. But when he rescues Lyra from a violent attack, they're both captured by an insatiable desire that threatens to overwhelm them and bind them together for eternity... just as ancient enemies prepare to strike. And when they do, the Thorn and the Cait Sith - and Lyra and Jaden's love - may never recover from the deadly blow...
(Please note both descriptions were taken from the back of the respective books.)

Shadow Rising (Dark Dynasties #3)

Ancient Secrets, Dark Passions...

As one of the Grigori, a noble vampire dynasty shrouded in mystery, Ariane has spent her life hidden away in the desert. Like all of her kind, she is a watcher, fated to observe, forbidden to act. Yet when her best friend, Sammael, vanishes, she defies all rules and flees her safe haven to bring him home.

A shape-shifting assassin for the House of Shadows, Damien Tremaine is hired to locate Sammael. His hunt for the wayward Grigori leads him to Ariane, the rogue vamp who stands between him and his bounty. Damien never lets emotion interfere with his work, but a single touch from the sexy, beguiling vampire shatters his self-control. Drawn together by their common goal, what begins as an alliance of necessity soon becomes one of desire. But when the secret at the dark heart of the Grigori comes to light, Damien and Ariane must make a choice that could bind them eternally...or tear them—and everything they care about—apart.

Coming 2013

Immortal Craving (Dark Dynasties #4)

The last-and most lethal-of his kind . . .

Wild, uncontrollable, and powerful, the lion-shifting Rakshasa were hunted down by vicious rival vampires who feared their dark, magical abilities. Somehow one survived, and now, after centuries of hiding, Tasmin Singh reemerges as fierce and fearless as ever at the door of the Lilim queen, seeking answers . . . and sanctuary.

The human best friend to a vampire queen, Bay Harper traded her quiet, comfortable life for a world filled with immortal assassins, warring werewolves . . . and this hauntingly sexy shifter. Only Bay's gentle touch can subdue Tasmin's inner demons, even as he brings out a passion and sensuality she never imagined she could feel. But when a bloody struggle threatens to tear them apart, can Bay risk everything on her faith in him-or will his dark side be stronger than even their all-consuming desire?

Cynthia Garner

Follow her on Twitter: @CynthiaGarner

Check out her website: http://cynthiagarnerbooks.com/

Cynthia Garner discovered her love for making up stories when her sixth grade teacher told the class to write a story that began “It was a dark and stormy night…” With that Cynthia's love for all things paranormal was born. When she's not working her day job as a mostly mild-mannered human resources manager, she's on her laptop writing or playing way too much Solitaire. Originally from Northeast Ohio, Cynthia now lives in the desert Southwest. (Information obtained from the back of her current book 'Kiss of the Vampire') For your information, Cynthia also writes erotic romances under the pen name Sherrill Quinn.

The Warriors of the Rift Series

Kiss of the Vampire
(Warriors of the Rift #1)

Once a generation, the rift between the paranormal world and the human world opens, allowing supernatural entities to cross. Vampire, demon, or shapeshifter, they can save the world-or send it spiraling into chaos. 

Half-demon, half-human, Nix de la Fuente is accepted by neither and mistrusted by both. Determined to prove she's more human than not, she devotes herself to solving crimes between the world's mortals and its most unsavory undead. But her latest case brings her face to face with the one vampire she could never resist . . .

Called in to investigate a string of violent murders, special agent Tobias Caine isn't interested in rekindling his relationship with Nix. Yet one look and the vampire knows his need for her is as strong as ever. Once, their all-consuming passion nearly cost Nix her fragile hold on her humanity. Now, as their hunger for one another intensifies, exposing them to an unimaginable danger, it could cost them both their lives.

           Secret of the Wolf
     (Warriors of the Rift #2)

Once a generation, the rift between the paranormal world and the human world opens, allowing supernatural entities to cross. Vampire, demon, or shapeshifter, they can save the world-or send it spiraling into chaos.

As a werewolf liaison to the Council of Preternaturals, Tori Joseph is used to straddling the world between humans and immortals. She plays by the rules and always delivers justice, no matter the cost. But after a string of increasingly brutal attacks results in humans turning into werewolves, Tori doesn't reveal her horrifying suspicion: Someone very close to her might be responsible.

Investigating the paranormal violence, no-nonsense detective Dante MacMillan believes Tori is hiding something. His search for the truth draws him into greater danger as he gets closer to the dark realm of the immortals-and to the sexy werewolf who stirs his primal lust. Now with evil closing in around them, Dante must convince Tori to trust him . . . before her deadly secret destroys them both.

COMING 2013

       Heart of the Demon 
    (Warriors of the Rift #3)


Demon Finn Evnissyen and fey princess Keira O’Brien go undercover to expose the person behind the rift device and put an end to whatever plans he or she may have. They are reluctant allies then lovers as the danger of the situation heightens the closer they get to the bad guy. If they survive, they must overcome their distrust and differences and find out if a fairy princess and a demon can have a happily-ever-after.

GIVEAWAY

I'm giving away to two winners one copy of Secret of the Wolf by Cynthia Garner -AND- one copy of Shadow Rising by Kendra Leigh Castle.

Rules for eligibility:

Only residents of the US who are 18 or older are eligible.

Please leave either your email address or a link to your Goodreads profile so I may get in contact with you to get your mailing address. **No P.O. Boxes, please**.

Become a follower of my blog, if you aren't already.

Winner will be randomly chosen. Giveaway ends August 5th, midnight eastern time. Only one winner per person and per address. Winners will be posted on my blog and notified by email or message posted to them via Goodreads. Winners will have 24 hours to respond before another winner will be selected. I need to get the names and addresses of the winners to the publisher by the 8th. Good Luck!

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