Guest Post: Suzy Turner + The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw Giveaway

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Suzy Turner.  Suzy is the author of Raven, December Moon, The Lost Soul, and The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw.

Keep reading for a chance to win fabulous prizes!

The man who inspired The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw

Earlier this year, I was invited to work on a movie called The Right Juice. It was a 'Brit flick' being filmed in the Algarve, where I've lived since I was ten (26 years). I was incredibly nervous but super excited at finally doing something I could only dream of, after all, it's not every day you get the chance to work on a movie. I was the Script Supervisor. It was a tough job for such a newbie but very satisfying.

Why am I telling you all this? Because it is where I got the inspiration to write my latest book, The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw (a Morgan Sisters novel). It wasn't my experiences behind the scenes that inspired me but a guy I met. Granted, I did have some awesome experiences that would make a great book... but that'll be another story altogether!

Mark Killeen is an English actor who is buff, gorgeous and one of the most down to earth people I've ever met. A guy who loves to laugh, and to make people laugh. We instantly became pals and shortly afterwards I knew I wanted him to be in my next book. Okay, perhaps that wasn't quite possible so I'd have to create a character based on Mark, a character living in the capital of England. Declan Alexander isn't the leading man, per se, but his role is a crucial one.

Like the man he's based upon, Declan Alexander is a proud Londoner, in every sense of the word. But he's not your average guy, no. Declan is half angel and he spends much of his time helping those in need in London, England and beyond.

In the very first Morgan Sisters novel, Declan volunteers to look after the two adopted daughters of his close friend Patrick Morgan. But what Patrick doesn't know, is that Declan is, in fact, helping the girls join an ancient foundation that helps fight crime...

The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw (Morgan Sisters #1) by Suzy Turner.

Adopted sisters Lana Beth and Emma Jane are polar opposites, but when the same strange 'tattoo' suddenly appears and winds its way up their bodies within days of each other, they soon realise there's more to their relationship than they could ever have imagined.

Sent off to London for two weeks of 'work experience', the Morgan Sisters soon find themselves being initiated into the ancient Praxos Foundation, one that protects the innocent while fighting evil, both human and supernatural.

At the same time, Lana Beth and Emma Jane must also investigate why the sweet but sometimes pesky ghost of Josiah Grimshaw just won't leave them alone.

Thank you Suzy for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Suzy Turner and her books, please visit her website.

**The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw Tour Giveaway**

Author Suzy Turner is giving away fabulous prizes to celebrate the release of The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw.  Enter the Rafflecopter form below for a chance to win a bracelet, keyring, Amazon gift card, and copies of The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Q+A with Juliet Dark (The Demon Lover)

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Juliet Dark!  Juliet is the author of The Demon Lover.

EJ:  When did you begin writing? 

Juliet:  When I was nine years old.  I wrote a 90 page, crayon illustrated epic entitled "The Adventures of the Magical Herd."

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Juliet:  I've liked the paranormal since watching Dark Shadows in my childhood.  In my "realistic" books there are often references to fairy tales and myths.  It seemed natural that the next step was to write about a world in which the fairy tales and myths are real.

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Juliet:  A witch.  I would choose the ability to heal.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Juliet:  Well, I certainly enjoyed writing it!  When I started THE DEMON LOVER I'd been looking for paranormal books that were intelligent, sexy, and written for adults.  I found a few (the Sookie Stackhouse books, the Dresden files) but not as many as I would have liked, so I thought there might be room for another.  I hope that THE DEMON LOVER appeals to an adult audience who like well written, bookish, sexy, magical books.

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Juliet:  Deborah Ann Woll (Jessica on True Blood) would be amazing as Callie McFay. My stepdaughter (and Demon Lovah advisor) suggests Peter Mooney from Camelot  for Liam and Sean Bean for Frank.  And I was thinking Archie Panjabi for Soheila.

The Demon Lover (Fairwick Chronicles #1) by Juliet Dark

Since accepting a teaching position at remote Fairwick College in upstate New York, Callie McFay has experienced the same disturbingly erotic dream every night: A mist enters her bedroom, then takes the shape of a virile, seductive stranger who proceeds to ravish her in the most toe-curling, wholly satisfying ways possible. Perhaps these dreams are the result of writing her bestselling book, The Sex Lives of Demon Lovers. After all, Callie’s lifelong passion is the intersection of lurid fairy tales and Gothic literature—which is why she finds herself at Fairwick’s renowned folklore department, living in a once-stately Victorian house that, at first sight, seemed to call her name.

But Callie soon realizes that her dreams are alarmingly real. She has a demon lover—an incubus—and he will seduce her, pleasure her, and eventually suck the very life from her. Then Callie makes another startling discovery: He’s not the only mythical creature in Fairwick. As the tenured witches of the college and the resident fairies in the surrounding woods prepare to cast out the incubus, Callie must accomplish something infinitely more difficult—banishing this demon lover from her heart.


Thank you Juliet for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Juliet Dark and her books, please visit her website.

Q+A with Amanda Bonilla (Shaedes of Gray)

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Amanda Bonilla!  Amanda is the author of Shaedes of Gray.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Amanda:  I started writing when I was around 18. I'd write on an off, but I didn't start seriously writing with a goal of publication until three years ago.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Amanda:  I have a really over-active imagination. The paranormal and urban fantasy genres were a natural direction for me. I grew up watching sci-fi and fantasy movies, cartoons, television shows. My mom is a huge fantasy reader. I remember watching re-runs of Dark Shadows with her when I was tiny. Fantasy has always been a part of my life.

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Amanda:  Oooh. What a great question! I think if I could be any paranormal being I I'd like to be some sort of faerie creature. I'd like my magic to be connected to nature and there's something so ethereal about the Fae. It would be great to live in the forest, unseen.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Amanda:  Shaedes of Gray will appeal to urban fantasy and paranormal romance fans alike. There's plenty of action and mystery splashed with a healthy dose of romance. If you like snarky alpha females with raging potty mouths and fight scenes with plenty of sword play, you'll like this book.

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Amanda:  My husband weighs in on this daily! LOL! He'd like to see Deborah Ann Woll (Jessica from True Blood) as Darian. I always picture someone with features like Scarlett Johanssen. For Xander, I'd totally cast Charlie Hunnam (Jax from Sons of Anarchy). He's just gorgeous, and he sort of reminds me of Xander. Taylor Kitsch (Friday Night Lights, X-Men Origins) is definitely my choice for Tyler. *Swoon* He looks exactly how I picture Ty. And for Raif, Henry Cavill might make a decent Raif, though we'd have to lighten his hair a bit. For Azriel, I'd cast Sendhil Ramamurthy (Heroes). He looks exactly how I picture him as well. (Wow, talk about a heavy on the testosterone cast! Hehe.)

Now, if I could just get a movie in the works, I'd be set!

Shaedes of Gray (Shaede Assassin #1) by Amanda Bonilla.

In the shadows of the night, Darian has lived alone for almost a century. Made and abandoned by her former love, Darian is the last of her kind-an immortal Shaede who can slip into darkness as easily as breathing. With no one else to rely on, she has taught herself how to survive, using her unique skills to become a deadly assassin.

When Darian's next mark turns out to be Xander Peck, King of the Shaede Nation, her whole worldview is thrown into question. Darian begins to wonder if she's taken on more than her conscience will allow. But a good assassin never leaves a job unfinished... 


Thank you Amanda for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Amanda Bonilla and her books, please visit her website.

Paranormal Guest Author: Jill Ranney-Campbell (Celtic Rose)

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Jill Ranney-Campbell!  Jill is the author of Celtic Rose.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Jill:  I started writing when I was seventeen, but I created stories to entertain people when I was much younger; probably around eight years old. I had written a trilogy, but all three were only about half way done by the time I was twenty. I would get stuck on one and write on another until I figured out the next scene. All of my manuscripts ended up destroyed and I was devastated. I quit writing but picked it up again a little over two years ago. This time I wasn't going to give up until I was published. And now I am writing on the second book in the trilogy, Celtic Rose II: The Awakening.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Jill:  Anything strange has always caught my attention. If it had vampires, werewolves, ghosts, or anything like that, it was my type of book or movie, especially if it had romance. I love the idea of supernatural abilities. I grew up always pretending that I had some sort of super power.

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Jill:  For a really cool power I would want to be a shapeshifter. I would love to change into an eagle and fly, or a wolf or tiger so I could protect my family. For a small power I would just love to have speed and agility so I could run over any terrain and not fall down.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Jill:  Readers will love Celtic Rose, because it is utterly unique. It has several different characters with very different personalities which gives readers at least one personality that they can relate to. The main aspect I wanted in my book was for readers to feel like they are a part of the story.

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Jill:  I really have five main characters to begin with and three more are added later. I have thought of characters for the main five and the protector. For my main character Kallisto I would love for Katie Holmes to play her because she matches the dark hair and eyes and I think she can play the personality. Her love Talus would be Ian Somerhalder from the vampire diaries it would be a slightly softer role than he plays there but in the second book he gets harder. Her brother Kalan would be played by Orlando Bloom he has the playful personality. The character William is red-headed and Scottish so a good fit for him would be James McAvoy. Kalan's love, and the best friend of Kallisto, Ramina was very hard to think of someone for because she is Korean/American but she looks more Indian than anything. I figured I'd go for Ursula Mayes which is a less known model/actress. The protector Gabriel is definitely for Hugh Jackman, he's strong, handsome and plays protective very well.

Celtic Rose by Jill Ranney-Campbell

A curse is placed on a couple and on all who died to avenge them. They are reborn and live several lives finding each other and starting again only to die two years later. They will continue this cycle until the curse is broken Something has happened in this new life. Everything is accelerated and their death is coming quicker than usual. Their quest to find the artifacts that will stop this curse begins in a rush against time. Will they be betrayed by one of their own?


Thank you Jill for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Jill Ranney-Campbell and her books, please visit her website.

Paranormal Guest Author: Kiki Hamilton (The Faerie Ring)

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Kiki Hamilton!  Kiki is the author of The Faerie Ring.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Kiki:  I started seriously writing about six years ago.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Kiki:  Harry Potter spurred me to start writing and the first thing I wrote was a story for my daughter. It was natural that it was a fantasy. However, I just finished writing a realistic contemporary story, so I’m not tied to just one genre.

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be?

Kiki:  I’d love the ability to do magic.  Is that too broad of a choice? Why? Because with magic you have unlimited possibilities.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Kiki:  Well, I wrote what I wanted to read, so hopefully it is a story that will appeal to others too.  The story is set in Victorian London and is about a pickpocket who steals the Queen’s ring only to find that the ring is a reservoir that holds a truce between the English royals and the world of Faerie. And everybody wants the ring back.  There is mystery, romance, magic, danger, faeries and London. What’s not to like?

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles?

Kiki:  I don’t know who I would pick and I sort of hate to put an image in someone’s mind, because that might not be the way that character looks to them when they read the book.  The perfect example for me was Edward Cullen. I had this perfect image of Edward in my mind while I read the book and I can assure you he did NOT look like RPatz. Why?

The Faerie Ring (The Faerie Ring #1) by Kiki Hamilton

The year is 1871, and Tiki has been making a home for herself and her family of orphans in a deserted hideaway adjoining Charing Cross Station in central London. Their only means of survival is by picking pockets. One December night, Tiki steals a ring, and sets off a chain of events that could lead to all-out war with the Fey. For the ring belongs to Queen Victoria, and it binds the rulers of England and the realm of Faerie to peace. With the ring missing, a rebel group of faeries hopes to break the treaty with dark magic and blood—Tiki’s blood.

Unbeknownst to Tiki, she is being watched—and protected—by Rieker, a fellow thief who suspects she is involved in the disappearance of the ring. Rieker has secrets of his own, and Tiki is not all that she appears to be. Her very existence haunts Prince Leopold, the Queen’s son, who is driven to know more about the mysterious mark that encircles her wrist.

Prince, pauper, and thief—all must work together to secure the treaty… 


Thank you Kiki for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Kiki Hamilton and her books, please visit her website.

Paranormal Guest Author: Keri Arthur (Riley Jenson, Dark Angels)

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Keri Arthur!  Keri is the author of the Nikki and Michael series, Myth and Magic series, Ripple Creep Werewolf series, Damask Circle series, Riley Jenson Guardian series (Full Moon Rising, Kissing Sin, Tempting Evil, Dangerous Games, Embraced by Darkness, The Darkest Kiss, Deadly Desire, Bound to Shadows, Moon Sworn), and Dark Angels series (Darkness Unbound, Darkness Rising).

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Keri:  I actually started writing when I was about 12, after I'd read a book where the author killed off a character I loved. I was so incensed I rewrote the book and made the character live! I've been writing 'seriously'--that is, with the aim of getting published--for about 20 years, and was first published with ImaJinn (a US small press) in 2001.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Keri:  I've always loved reading fantasy novels, and the first three books I wrote were all fantasy romances. Then I read Children of the Night, by Mecedes Lackey, fell in love with Andre, and knew that's exactly what I wanted to write.

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Keri:  I'm not actually sure I'd want to be a paranormal--this world isn't ready for them! lol As for a supernatural talent, again, I'm not sure I'd want one. Such gifts always have their downsides, and to be honest, I'm happy just being me, as I am!

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Keri:  My upcoming Dark Angels series is set in the same world as the Riley Jenson series, so old friends are occasionally revisited. Plus, Risa can kick arse almost as well as her aunt Riley, and she has the help of a seriously sexy Aedh, as well as a reaper.

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Keri:  I'd love my books to be made into movies, and honestly, as long as the actors were appropriate (for example, Riley has red hair and can kick male arse, so the actress has to at least look like she could do that--no wimps allowed!) then I wouldn't care.

Darkness Unbound (Dark Angels #1) by Keri Arthur

Risa Jones is as extraordinary as her heritage. Born from a lab-enhanced clone mother and an Aedh father, she can not only talk to the souls of the dying and the dead, but she can see the reapers and walk the gray fields that divide this world from the next.

They are skill she rarely uses, however, preferring to concentrate on the business she shares with her two best friends. But when her mother asks her to help the parents of a little girl locked in a coma, she reluctantly agrees. What she discovers scares the hell out of her. Because the little girl’s soul no longer resides in her body, and it wasn’t death and the reapers that took her.

Someone had ripped her soul from her flesh.

As it turns out, a creature consuming the souls of the innocent–and not so innocent–is the least of her problems. Because someone wants to rip open the gates that divided hell from earth, and Risa is a key component in their plans. And the only person standing between her and disaster is a reaper who isn’t exactly on her side.


Thank you Keri for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Keri Arthur and her books, please visit her website.

Paranormal Guest Author: Nell Stark + Everafter Giveaway

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Nell Stark!  Nell is the author of Running with the Wind and Homecoming and is co-author of the Everafter series which includes Everafter, Nevermore, and Nightrise.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Nell:  I began writing as soon as I was literate. I honestly don't remember a time when I wasn't composing stories: first by hand on lined paper, then on my family's clunky Apple IIE, and later on more sophisticated computers. Everywhere I went as a child I saw stories, and I always wanted to write them down. At age 16 I finished my first novel, which turned out to be an earnest but really quite awful "epic" fantasy story, the protagonist of which was my idealized self. During my college years, I began to refine my skills in earnest through coursework and workshops. Later, as a doctoral graduate student, my first manuscript (a traditional romance) was accepted by Bold Strokes Books. I met my partner and everafter collaborator, Trinity Tam, through my publisher. Trin and I began work on the everafter series late in 2008.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Nell:  I came to paranormals via fantasy, which I discovered at age 8 when my mother handed me a copy of Tolkien's Lord of the Rings. She wasn't sure I was ready for Middle Earth, but I quickly became hooked. After years of reading fantasy, I branched out into urban fantasy and paranormals. I've enjoyed writing the everafter series because creating paranormal characters is an intriguing way to explore the human condition. Vampires and were-creatures are in many ways "more human than human," in that they are compelled to surrender to their animal appetites. Vampires thirst for the very essence of life, while Weres don't just act like animals--they become them.

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Nell:  If I were asked to choose between life as a vampire or as a were-creature, I'd choose the latter. I would not want to miss out on having the chance to experience the world through animal-caliber senses!

However, if I could have any supernatural ability, I'd choose the ability to heal.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Nell:  As a paranormal romantic thriller, everafter combines the best features of three genres. It features a lesbian romance between paranormal characters as well as an action-adventure plot set in contemporary New York City. Its two sequels, nevermore and nightrise, introduce additional challenges for the central couple and also allow readers deeper access into the underground society of vampires and wereshifters.

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Nell:  I love this question!

If everafter were made into a film and I could call the casting shots, Valentine Darrow would be played by Katee Sackoff, and Alexa Newland would be played by Rachel McAdams.

Everafter (Everafter #1) by Nell Stark and Trinity Tam

How far would you go to save your lover’s soul? When medical student Valentine Darrow is bitten by a Vampire on her way home to propose to her lover, Alexa Newland, her life becomes a nightmare. She is consumed—both by a craving for human blood, and by an obsession to find her attacker and bring him to justice. Alexa is determined to be everything that Valentine needs, but when Val's appetite outstrips Alexa's ability to nourish her, Alexa risks her life to save her lover. Will Valentine be able to control her thirst—for blood and for vengeance? And can Valentine and Alexa's relationship endure against seemingly impossible odds?


Thank you Nell for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Nell Stark and her books, please visit her website.

**Everafter Giveaway**

We are giving away three copies of Everafter by Nell Stark and Trinity Tam!

To enter, please leave a comment on this post including your email address (so we may contact you if you win).  You do not have to be a follower to enter (though I always appreciate a follow!). This giveaway is international.  US winners will have their choice of ebook or paperback.  International winners will receive an ebook copy.  Giveaway ends November 5th midnight EST.

Paranormal Guest Author: Sophie Jordan aka Sharie Kohler

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Sophie Jordan!  Sophie also writes under the name Sharie Kohler and is the author of the Firelight series (Firelight, Vanish) and the Moon Chasers series (Marked by Moonlight, Kiss of a Dark Moon, To Crave a Blood Moon, My Soul to Keep, Night Falls on the Wicked).

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Sophie:  I write off and on since I was in junior high. I only determined to write with the serious goal to become published, however, in my late twenties.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Sophie:  I’ve always been a fan of the horror genre and interested in paranormal lore. Honestly, there weren’t too many paranormal books I’d read when the idea for a “lycan” story came to me and I quickly got to work on it. That book became MARKED BY MOONLIGHT, the first book in my Moon Chasers series. When I wrote that book I had no idea it would even become a series! And now here I am on book five.

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Sophie:  Hm, tough … I think I’d like be an empath like the heroine in my third paranormal novel, TO CRAVE A BLOOD MOON. She’s just the most distinctive protagonist I’ve creatied and her supernatural “gift” made her wonderfully complex.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Sophie:  NIGHT FALLS ON THE WICKED is a blending of several paranormal “creatures” that I’ve thus far introduced in my series. Lycans, hybrid lycans, witches, demons … in each Moon Chasers book, the world has expanded. So with NIGHT FALLS ON THE WICKED, book #5, the world really explodes and the stakes are higher than ever. And of course … there’s steamy romance. Always got to have that!

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Sophie:  Oh, I’m a HUGE fan of Mila Jovovich. I love all her Resident Evil movies. She’s the ultimate kick-ass heroine and just has tremendous presence. She’s really lovely with her exotic looks, too … oh, and it doesn’t hurt that she’s a great actress! I can see her perfectly in the role of any of my heroines.

Night Falls on the Wicked (Moon Chasers #5) by Sharie Kohler

Sharie Kohler returns to the shadowy world of the Moon Chasers, where a seductive witch stalked by demons finds protection in the arms of a lycan on a mission of blood vengeance. . . .

Darby lives her life below the radar, moving from town to town in the coldest climates, eluding the demons that hunt her—and never allowing herself to get close to anyone. Now, in frigid isolation, Darby waits tables in a small town and tries to forget who she is—what she is—and the danger forever nipping at her heels. Until a new danger finds her—a lycan pack whose distant howls have the locals on edge. But the call of the lycans has also drawn a handsome, menacing stranger. . . .

For years, Niklas has searched for the bloodthirsty pack that murdered his mother and infected him. Darby is overwhelmed by his raw appeal and dangerous strength. Niklas senses her need and vulnerability . . . and together they give in to the hungry attraction blazing between them—but desire this fierce brings dangers of its own. When Darby is targeted by the lycans, the stakes are higher than ever—and Niklas is not about to lose another woman he loves to their evil bloodlust.


Thank you Sophie for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Sophie Jordan, aka Sharie Kohler, and her books please visit her website.

Paranormal Guest Author: Kristen Painter (House of Comarré Series)

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Kristen Painter!  Kristen is the author of Heart of Fire, Dark Kiss of the Reaper, and the House of Comarré series which includes Blood Rights, Flesh and Blood, and Bad Blood.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Kristen:  I've been writing all my life in some form: poetry, short stories, non-fiction articles. I began writing with the goal of publication about six years ago.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Kristen:  I love the open-endedness of the What If that paranormal offers. There are truly no limits in that genre, only those you impose on yourself.

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Kristen:  I'd love to be able to teleport, mostly because I hate waiting. lol

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Kristen:  I hope they enjoy it because it meets their reading need - to be swept away into another place, to forget about life for awhile, or just to experience something new.

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Kristen:  That's a tough question. There aren't any actors in Hollywood that immediately come to mind, so I'd probably want unknowns.

Blood Rights (House of Comarré #1) by Kristen Painter

The lacy gold mapped her entire body. A finely-wrought filigree of stars, vines, flowers, butterflies, ancient symbols and words ran from her feet, up her legs, over her narrow waist, spanned her chest and finished down her arms to the tips of her fingers.

Born into a life of secrets and service, Chrysabelle’s body bears the telltale marks of a comarré—a special race of humans bred to feed vampire nobility. When her patron is murdered, she becomes the prime suspect, which sends her running into the mortal world…and into the arms of Malkolm, an outcast vampire cursed to kill every being from whom he drinks.

Now Chrysabelle and Malkolm must work together to stop a plot to merge the mortal and supernatural worlds. If they fail, a chaos unlike anything anyone has ever seen will threaten to reign.


Thank you Kristen for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Kristen Painter and her books, please visit her website.

Paranormal Guest Author: C.C. Hunter (Shadow Falls Series)

Please welcome paranormal guest author C.C. Hunter.  C.C. is the author of Born at Midnight and Awake at Dawn.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

CC:  Some writers will tell you that they were born with a pen in their hands and by the time their umbilical cord fell off, they’d finished the first draft of their first novel.  Not me.  I was raised in the south, where all my family tried to one-up each other with their stories, I grew up surrounded by storytellers.  And while I was good at it, I was also dyslexic, and writing was not my strong suit.  (Now, standing up and telling my story to an audience?  That I could do with no problem.)  I was twenty-three before I told my husband I wanted to be a writer.  It took years…lots of years, spent teaching myself how to put my talent of telling a story on paper.  I think I may be finally catching on, too.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

CC:  Ghosts.  LOL.  Seriously, I’ve always loved ghost stories.  I think I love them so much because of all the spooky paranormal elements, this is the one I come closest to believing really exists.  And my first novel with any paranormal element in it was one about a girl whose mom dies and comes back to warn her about bad things that were going to happen to her.  Back in 2006, the paranormal genre was really getting hot.  I had sold one sweet romance to Silhouette years before and wanted to get back into writing novels.  I had been writing Single Title romances, humorous romantic suspense, but humor wasn’t the hottest genre and I couldn’t seem to sell them.  I signed with my agent and she recommended I try to write a book with a paranormal element in it.  I wrote a proposal about Faes and ghosts.  It didn’t sell, but it got the attention of several editors.  Rose Hilliard at St. Martins was one of them, and she loved my voice.

I went on to sell six humorous romances and Rose watched my career from afar.  About two years ago, Rose went to my agent and asked if I would try writing a YA paranormal series. I was leery at first—not about the paranormal element but about the YA.  Ahh, but once I got started I totally loved it. 

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

CC:  Good question.  And to be honest, I get asked this one a lot, so you’d think I’d have my answer down pat, but I really don’t.  LOL.  I guess it’s just that it’s so hard for me to choose.  Now, when I was writing Born at Midnight, and creating the Shadow Falls universe, I did a lot of research.  And because writers like to tweak details to match their vision, I’ve made some changes to the mythology for many of my supernaturals.  Some of them, like vampires, shape-shifters, and werewolves, can be scary but once you get to know them as characters, you’ll realize they all have some good qualities.   I think that’s what makes it so hard for me to choose—I don’t want to be unfaithful to any of my characters.  LOL.  But if I had to choose, I’d probably go with either a witch or a fae.  I think these characters offer the most options . . . although I think it would be totally cool to be able to fly like a vampire does.  LOL.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

CC:  I read once that your characters should be the type of person that someone wouldn’t mind being locked in a closet with for several days.  Because basically, that’s what a reader is doing.  Shutting out the rest of the world and spending hours, sometimes days, with your characters.  So I can tell you that I think Kylie and the rest of the crew at Shadow Falls are good closet buddies.  They are interesting, courageous, mysterious (so you won’t get bored), and have lots of heart.  Their experiences in their world can teach us a few things about living in the real world.  Things about romance, friendship, family, and about learning to accept ourselves and the other people in our lives for what they are.

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

CC:  This question is always so hard for me to answer.  I mean, I could toss out names like Zac Efron, Amanda Seyfried, Chace Crawford, but in truth, the roles of Kylie and the all the crew at Shadow Falls are already taken in my mind.  I know the expression on Kylie’s face when she’s really frustrated, and Amanda doesn’t make that expression.  I know how Lucas walks, with his quiet, silent movements and his how body tenses when people get too close, and Zac doesn’t do that.  I know the sexy twinkle Derek gets in his eyes when he looks at Kylie, I know how he sounds when he laughs, and that’s not Chace.  I actually have a film agent shopping around the series and all I can say is that it’s going to be hard to find people to play these characters the way I see them in my head.

Awake at Dawn (Shadow Falls #2) by C.C. Hunter

Now that she’s settled in at Shadow Falls Camp, Kylie Galen’s determined to discover the extent of her supernatural abilities.  But with a ghost insisting someone Kylie loves is about die, a rogue vampire on a murdering rampage, and her sixth sense telling her someone is watching her, Kylie’s quest for answers is quickly put on hold.

To make matters worse, just when she’s about to give her heart to Derek, a half-fairy, he starts pulling away.  When Lucas, a werewolf with whom Kylie shares a secret past, returns, Kylie’s feels more conflicted than ever. Her weekend with her mom should have been the just the break Kylie needs, but it turns out to be her breaking point.  Someone from the dark side of the supernatural world has plans for Kylie--and it'll take all her resources to get back to Shadow Falls alive...


Thank you C.C. for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about C.C. Hunter and her books, please visit her website.

Paranormal Guest Author: Virna DePaul (Para-Ops) + Chosen by Fate Giveaway

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Virna DePaul.  Virna is the author of the Para-Ops series, which includes Chosen by Blood and Chosen by Fate.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Virna:  I began writing fiction towards the end of 2006.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Virna:  I started writing contemporary romantic suspense, my first love, and continued to write for about three years before I realized two things: 1) the market was very hot for paranormals, much more so than for straight romantic suspense; and 2) I'd begun reading paranormal romances and loved the genre almost more than romantic suspense--I just never thought I could write it. I decided to try my hand at a BIG series that would combine elements of both the genres that I loved. When I thought of the Para-Ops series, I envisioned X-Men meets Romancing The Stone.

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Virna:  I would love to be able to heal others. There's so much unnecessary pain in the world. Some pain is necessary to grow and evolve, but so much pain and suffering isn't. I'd love to bring peace and second chances to others.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Virna:  My Para-Ops series is an action-packed and sensual combination of paranormal and special ops thrills. I like to call it "special ops with fangs." Book 1, Chosen By Blood (Berkley) has a strong thriller plot, yet has been complimented for its complex world-building and emotional, compelling characters. Book 2, Chosen By Fate, which comes out in October, focuses more on the main romance and secondary relationships but also has a lot of action!

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Virna:  For Knox Devereaux, the Para-Ops team's half-human, half-vampire leader, I think I'd choose Eric Bana. He can play someone both elegant and old world, but also sexy and kick ass. That's the combination that is uniquely Knox. For Dex Hunt, the team's werebeast, maybe Sam Worthington--I think he can match Hugh Jackman's Wolverine in toughness and sexiness. And for Wraith, the team's ghost? Maybe Angelina Jolie (though she'd have to tinge her skin blue and cut her hair and dye it white) because she can portray that blend of angsty bitch and vulnerable female all at once.

Chosen by Fate (Para-Ops #2) by Virna DePaul

Although he keeps company with a vampire and a were, human Shaman Caleb O'Flare can definitely hold his own. But neither his psychic ability nor his healing powers can help his sexy-as-hell teammate, Wraith-a ghost with no memory of her human existence, who cannot experience touch without pain. No wraith has managed to exist past its tenth year, so her time is about to run out. She wants only two things before accepting her fate: to learn her human identity, and experience one night with Caleb...


Thank you Virna for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Virna DePaul and her books, please visit her website.

**Chosen by Fate International Giveaway**

We are giving away one copy of Chosen by Fate signed by the author, Virna DePaul, with trading cards!

To enter, please leave a comment on this post including your email address (so we may contact you if you win).  You do not have to be a follower to enter (though I always appreciate a follow!).  This giveaway is INTERNATIONAL.  Giveaway ends October 14th midnight EST.

Paranormal Guest Author: Gracen Miller + Pandora's Box Giveaway

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Gracen Miller!  Gracen is the author of Fairy Casanova, Elfin Blood, The Devil's Den, and Pandora's Box.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Gracen:  Thanks for having me today, E.J.! It’s an honor to be here. I began writing in sixth grade when my English teacher gave us a writing assignment for homework. Like everyone else in the class, I groaned and complained about having to use my imagination.  I couldn’t believe she’d given us such a complex assignment and worried I wouldn’t find sufficient inspiration. I dragged my feet that afternoon stepping out of the car and entering my mother’s workplace—I spent every afternoon doing homework in the restaurant office where she worked.

I sat down at that desk unknowing my life was about to take a dramatic turn.  I took up pen and paper, thinking how much I hated English and disliked Mrs. S for issuing such a stupid assignment.  I looked out the window and stared at the well-manicured Golf Course (my mother worked at the local Country Club as a waitress), with a certainty darkening my heart that I would fail this project miserably and my mother would be furious.  Surprised, an idea quickly rose in my mind about Atlantis rising from the ocean and its inhabitants harnessing supernatural powers.  And, of course, along with those supernatural powers the Atlantians concocted an evil plan to take over the world…what else do you do with supernatural powers, right?  LOL  With gusto I wrote a poorly crafted “play”, but I was excited by the detail illuminating in my mind.

The next day all of our stories were read out loud in class.  I fidgeted and worried to the point of nausea that everyone would laugh at my story.  No one laughed, but sat as silent as church mice as I read.  Mrs. S took a paper vote at the end of class on the three favorite stories and mine was one of the three, which meant the next day I had to pick individuals to play the parts of my characters. My characters would be acted out in front of the entire classroom.  Wow!  Not only had I enjoyed the assignment, but apparently all of my peers loved it too!  Talk about mind-blowing to an 11 year old! Much like a drug, writing dug its claws into me and I have forever been addicted.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Gracen:  The paranormal has drawn me for as long as I can remember. I’ve been watching horror/paranormal movies since I was a child. I grew up with greats like The Twilight Zone and Tales from the Darkside. My best friend, Angela, and I would rent B-rated horror movies the weekends we were together and veg out in front of the TV eating popcorn and nachos. It seemed normal to merge paranormal and romance together when I started writing. I love the world building that comes with the paranormal too. It’s so much fun seeing where my imagination can take me!

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Gracen:  What a tough question. Hmm…well, I always prefer to fiddle with my paranormal creatures so they don’t fit the standard mold. Those that are members of my Road to Hell series fan page call me “Momma Hellhound”. They also gave me a forked tail that I poke people with and a magical pitchfork so that I can zap naughty hellhounds into submission. LOL  But I don’t want to be a dog. How unglamorous! ;-)  I think I’d want to be a magical demon, because being naughty is so much fun. I would cast spells, all types of spells, and I’d be able to kick butt with ease. Make mortal and immortal men quake in fear at the utterance of my name. *cheeky grin* What’s the point in having supernatural talent if you can’t frighten people, right?

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Gracen:  It’s a great mix between horror and romance, something I don’t get enough of when I’m looking for a book. Madison is a strong heroine, but she’s vulnerable too. Nix is a no-nonsense paranormal hunter who opens Madison’s eyes to the dangerous world surrounding them. But the internal forces outside of their control is the heart of their problem. Nothing is as Madison once believed, her whole life is a lie, but she’s determined not to allow herself or her son be victimized by the cards destiny has dealt them.

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading -roles? Why?

Gracen:  LOL My girlfriend and I were just discussing this the other day. We couldn’t come up with a great pick for the heroine, but the closest “fit” was Charlize Theron. The only why is because she’s blonde and leggy like Madison. No other reason.  I prefer an unknown to play Madison’s part, so there are no preconceived notions about the actress.  For the hero, Phoenix “Nix” Birmingham, we picked Chris Evans. The why is because he’s easy on the eyes—lol—got great lips and gorgeous eyes, plus he was great in Losers and Captain America. =D

Pandora's Box (The Road to Hell, #1) by Gracen Miller

Where does the road to Hell begin?

What happens when your son turns homicidal overnight and your husband disappears on his way to work? Do you cower in fear or fight for your life? Madison Wescott fights against the odds. Distrustful of a God she doesn't believe in, she finds herself face-to-face with a world she didn't know existed and discovers her own soul is darkened with demonic connections.

With good intentions? Or by demonic design?

Phoenix Birmingham bursts into Madison’s life in a whirlwind of sarcasm and sexual appeal. A hero for the masses—and for her jaded heart—but few will ever know the sacrifices he has made or the sacrifices to come. Discovering her entire life has been influenced by multifaceted paranormal beings, Madison is determined to defeat the apocalyptic blueprint fate has decreed, but only one man dares to challenge the supernatural forces manipulating them. Even with Phoenix's aid, can destiny be denied? Or will demonic design prevail while they pay the crucial price with their souls?

In a small, sleepy Alabama town the battle for mankind's liberty has begun...

Thank you Gracen for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Gracen Miller and her books, please visit her website.

**Pandora's Box Giveaway**

We are giving away one ebook copy of Pandora's Box by Gracen Miller and a fabulous skull cameo pendant!

To enter, please leave a comment on this post including your email address (so we may contact you if you win).  You do not have to be a follower to enter (though I always appreciate a follow!).  This giveaway is INTERNATIONAL!  Giveaway ends October 10th midnight EST.

Paranormal Guest Author: Merrie Haskell (The Princess Curse)

Please welcome today's paranormal author Merrie Haskell!  Merrie is the author of The Princess Curse.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Merrie:  I started writing when I was seven years old; I distinctly remember folding a piece of ruled paper lengthwise and making that into a book, and illustrating the cover with markers. It was a book about a princess--I think it was called "The Story of a Princess," in fact. My mom saved it, so I should scan it in for posterity. In any case, it was a pretty dry and linear piece of work, but it did feature a dragon and a three-year engagement. I'm not sure where the dragon came from, but I was reading a lot of Laura Ingalls Wilder at the time, and I believe she had a three-year engagement.

I know I wrote lots of dribs and drabs of things after that, but didn't complete anything else until my 5th grade language arts teacher challenged me to do so. She was an amazing teacher, and pulled my mom aside at the class picnic to tell her to encourage me to write. Though my mom already was giving me the space I needed to be creative, plus the support to buy my first typewriter that year (which I paid for myself with dog-walking money).

It's interesting to me though--that I started writing when I was seven, but I waited nearly twenty years before I got serious about trying to get published. I think it took me until my late twenties to realize the world wasn't going to just offer me publishing contracts at whim based on my... fine taste in books? I don't know what I was thinking, honestly, but when I was younger I harbored fantasies of running into favorite author at some bookstore and having her mentor me and show me the way into publishing, which is... definitely a fantasy!

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Merrie:  I rarely have ideas for stories that don't include some science fiction or fantasy or paranormal element. I know that I like the way those otherworldly elements allow you to use allegory and metaphor without being obnoxious, boring, or preachy. Diana Peterfreund's RAMPANT springs immediately to mind--exploring virginity and what our culture thinks it means becomes significantly more intense and interesting if you throw unicorns into the mix.

My otherwise-supportive mother once asked me: "Why don't you write something real?" And of all the defenses that leaped to my lips, including the metaphor/intensification argument I just laid out, the one that won her over was: "I want to show people what's possible."

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Merrie:  I'd like to be able to time travel. Hands down! Given how much I like ordinary, physical travel, I can't see not loving the chance to vacation in the past... I've always thought that storytelling was in some ways a manifestation of my desire to travel in time. I'm not talking about writing, or not just writing, here; I love telling stories about my crazy past and kooky acquaintances, and painting a picture that, however briefly, takes me and my listener back into the moment. I spent a lot of time with my elderly grandparents when I was young, and always felt like 1925 was just a few steps sideways, not "50 years before I was born." They were also storytellers in that vein, so I'd say the inclination for time travel runs in the family.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Merrie:  I hope readers will enjoy THE PRINCESS CURSE--and I hope it's because of Reveka and Frumos. Reveka is ruthlessly pragmatic about the realities of her world, but unwilling to take no for an answer. I love people like that. Those are the people who can get things done in the world. She's also slightly obsessed with herbs, and I love writing and reading about nerds in love with their favorite subject. And as for Frumos--well, men of mystery are always intriguing!

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Merrie:  Tough question! I don't do much mental casting when I write, and when I do, it's usually "actor X when they were a kid" or "actor Y when they were alive." The biggest problem is, everyone in Hollywood is too pretty to be in my books. I think at one point, Reveka refers to herself as "not homely." So, as long as we agree movies are the book with everyone's prettiness tripled...

But there is an exception: I was actually picturing David Tennant (the 10th Doctor Who) while I was writing Frumos. Of course, he's too old to be Frumos, so possibly Callum Blue (Zod on SMALLVILLE), but he's *also* too old to be Frumos. But I think, based on those two references, you'd have a pretty good idea of who to cast, were you a casting agent.

Reveka is tough. The cover artist, Jason Chan, did a great job capturing the Reveka in my mind (she's based on a friend's daughter). Maybe Chloe Moretz, who is due to play Emily the Strange? Needs hair dye and contacts, but I think she could nail it. Jodelle Ferland? Willow Shields?

For Lacrimora and Otilia (two of the twelve dancing princesses and half-sisters), I have to say Emma Stone and Molly Quinn. With Bryce Dallas Howard as Maricara (the eldest sister) and Spencer Locke as the Princess Consort. And Dot Jones (Coach Beiste on GLEE) as Marjit. Oh, now I'm spending way too much time on this. Sorry!

The Princess Curse by Merrie Haskell

Twelve princesses suffer from a puzzling (if silly) curse, and anyone who ends it will win a reward. Reveka, a sharp-witted and irreverent apprentice herbalist, wants that reward. But her investigations lead to deeper mysteries and a daunting choice—will she break the curse at the peril of her own soul?


Thank you Merrie for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Merrie Haskell and her books, please visit her website.

Paranormal Guest Author: Sang Kromah (Concealed)

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Sang Kromah!  Sang is the author of Concealed. 

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Sang:  I actually created the background story as a child, but I began writing the story on a trip to California with my mom. It was the summer before I began grad school and I was supposed to be having fun and concentrating on modeling, but we got to the airport in San Francisco, I saw a girl, who for some reason took me back to the memory of the story I’d created as a child. When we got to the hotel, I began writing ferociously, and three months later, Concealed was born.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Sang:  I’ve always been a paranormal fanatic. My parents always wondered what was wrong with me. They told me so many paranormal stories as a young child and when I became obsessed they wondered why. I’m always researching strange happenings and watching scary films (in various languages). I’m just passionate about the genre and couldn’t imagine writing anything else. I’d go crazy!

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Sang:  Oh wow! My younger brother and I ask this question quite frequently. My supernatural talents would be rapid cellular regeneration, so I could be indestructible and to be a healer. It may seem lame, but I could save so many people with my power. I wouldn’t publicize it. To me these two powers go hand in hand, because in order to continue to heal people you’d have to stay alive, and better way to do that than by being indestructible.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Sang:  Readers will love Concealed, because it’s unique and totally random. It’s an introduction to a side of fantasy that hasn’t quite been seen before with colorful characters that walk the line between good and evil so artfully it makes it hard to tell the difference. It’s a tasteful blend of fantasy, teen angst, mythology, and history rolled into one, and you won’t be able to put it down.

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Sang:  My main character, Bijou is racially ambiguous and is stylish and Bohemian. You know the type, beautiful but insecure. She would most likely be played by Gossip Girl’s Jessica Szohr or Smallville’s Kristin Kreuk. The only other character that I have definitely found a match for is Amina. I watch a lot of foreign television and I watch an Australian soap opera, Home and Away. There’s this actress, Tessa James and I swear it was as if my words came to life and created this girl. Her whole look is Amina, the accent, the feisty yet bubbly attitude is so her.

Concealed (Concealed #1) by Sang Kromah

When sixteen year-old Bijou Fitzroy and her nomadic grandmother leave New York City to live in a home in the sleepy town of Sykesville, Maryland, Bijou thinks she will finally be able to live a normal life and be like everyone else. This move will be permanent, and Bijou cannot be anymore thrilled. After years of being shut away by her grandmother, Bijou will finally able to interact with peers, make friends, go to school, and live like a normal teenager.

Moving around and being homeschooled definitely made it difficult to make friends, but there are other reasons for Bijou’s solitude. With eyes that constantly change from gray to green to a honey-coated shade of brown and an ability to feel exactly what other people are feeling, the concept of obtaining closeness is more of a fable than a reality. Although her eyes are beautiful, their constant shift in color instills a sense of fear within other people and causes them to look away. Bijou’s premonitions, blackouts, and semi-prophetic dreams of a faceless boy don’t help her social musings either. Regardless, she decides to attend the local high school.

Bijou is immediately introduced to Sebastian Sinjin, a quirky and unusually beautiful boy who doesn’t seem to belong in a high school in nowhere Maryland. Sebastian is also special. Instead of looking away from Bijou, he makes direct eye contact with her. And when he shakes Bijou’s hand something dark and familiar to awaken within her as an electric shock surges through her body. Bijou soon finds herself deeply attracted to Sebastian, who remains aloof and often acts like Bijou doesn’t exist.

Despite the pains of having her first real crush, Bijou makes friends quickly and excels in all of her classes…well, all except for Mythology with Mr. Jennings. Mr. Jennings’ class starts off great with endless discussions of djinn and how they conceal themselves from the human eye, but things soon take a turn for the worse when the stories of the mythical creatures begin to take shape in Bijou’s life.


Thank you Sang for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Sang Kromah and her books, please visit her website.

Paranormal Guest Author: Elizabeth Miles (Fury)

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Elizabeth Miles!  Elizabeth is the author of Fury.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Elizabeth:  I have always written. As a child, I wrote fiction and non-fiction and what would now be considered “fan fiction” — stories that continued or expanded on the trajectories of well-loved (by me) characters like Laura from the Little House on the Prairie series. In college, I majored in print journalism and I started working for an alt-weekly newspaper after I graduated. That’s still my day job: narrative journalism with an alternative spin. I started writing fiction again in 2010, at the urging of my longtime friend and fellow YA author Lauren Oliver (Before I Fall, Delirium), who was instrumental in helping Fury become a reality.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Elizabeth:  I love realistic fiction, but I appreciate the freedom that paranormal provides. Incorporating paranormal elements into a contemporary tale, which is what I feel I did with Fury, gave me the opportunity to heighten certain scenarios, to give (creepy) life to esoteric emotions, to attach real danger to typically cerebral concerns. It allowed me to explore the concept of vengeance from an amplified perspective. Not to mention, it’s fun — both to read and to write. And I like creepy things.

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Elizabeth:  I used to hem and haw over this question — invisibility? teleportation? mind-reading? All of those options sounded cool but none them really inspired me. Then, the other day, I was watching Enchanted, gleefully smiling during the singing/dancing scene in Central Park (“That’s How You Know”), and my boyfriend said, “This would be your superpower — the ability to turn normal situations into big musical scenes.” And he’s dead right! Brilliant! I would be the Musical Theater Mage, transforming quotidian life into sweeping, powerful production numbers.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Elizabeth:  Fury is both scary and sexy, and its characters are real, flawed, and interesting. The idea of karma, the question of whether or not revenge is actually sweet — these are concepts we grapple with daily (whether or not we want to admit that is a different story). Fury offers a fresh, exciting take on paranormal YA lit.

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Elizabeth:  I don’t want to say too much about this because I don’t want to influence the way readers imagine the characters in their heads. That said, I really enjoy Elle Fanning (she was so good in Super 8 and Somewhere!) and I would be honored to have her portray a character in the Fury series.

Fury (Fury, #1) by Elizabeth Miles

Sometimes sorry isn't enough....

It’s winter break in Ascension, Maine. The snow is falling and everything looks pristine and peaceful. But not all is as it seems...

Between cozy traditions and parties with her friends, Emily loves the holidays. And this year’s even better--the guy she’s been into for months is finally noticing her. But Em knows if she starts things with him, there’s no turning back. Because his girlfriend is Em’s best friend.

On the other side of town, Chase is having problems of his own. The stress of his home life is starting to take its toll, and his social life is unraveling. But that’s nothing compared to what’s really haunting him. Chase has done something cruel...something the perfect guy he pretends to be would never do. And it’s only a matter of time before he’s exposed.

In Ascension, mistakes can be deadly. And three girls—three beautiful, mysterious girls—are here to choose who will pay.

Em and Chase have been chosen.


Thank you Elizabeth for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Elizabeth and her books, please visit her website.

Paranormal Guest Author: Laura Kaye + Forever Freed Giveaway

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Laura Kaye!  Laura is the author of Hearts in Darkness and Forever Freed.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Laura:  I wrote my first stories as a child. I was an only child and alone a good bit, so I became very good at entertaining myself, and cultivating a vivid imagination was one part of that! The first story I remember writing, although I doubt it was my first, was a paranormal retelling of A Secret Garden. I have no idea whatever happened to the notebook in which I handwrote the story, but I can still see the book in my mind’s eye. In high school, I won a prize for a story called “Peter Save the Tsar,” which was a time travel tale about a modern-day kid who stopped the assassination of the Russian royal family in 1917.

That story also reveals my interest in history, which is where my writing became concentrated once I went to college and graduate school. As a professional historian, writing has been a part of my life for my entire career. But it wasn’t until three years ago that the fiction bug hit me—literally! I hit my head on July 4th and after several weeks of severe headaches and other “post-concussive” side effects, I found myself wanting to write fiction. At the end of August, I started writing the book that became Forever Freed, and the draft was done by November 1.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Laura:  Well, as my paranormal retelling of A Secret Garden shows, I’ve been interested in the paranormal since I was a small child. That interest stems from my family, all of whom believe in the supernatural. It was completely normal for my family to sit around my grandmother’s dinner table on a Friday night and tell stories about their houses being haunted, or the evil-eye curse my grandmother believed her mother-in-law placed on her, or the angel that came to my grandmother when she was pregnant with my mother. We all saw instances of odd, unexplainable things happen in some of our family’s houses, particularly my grandmother’s. The supernatural just was. The two authors I remember being totally hooked on the earliest were Anne Rice and Stephen King, so I’ve always been most interested in the paranormal genre. And it’s so totally cool to be writing in it, now!

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Laura:  Teleporting. I would totally love to be able to move from one place to another instantaneously just by willing it. How cool would that be? Poof! And you’re gone. Need to check on someone? You can. Need to get somewhere quick? No problem.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Laura:  I would love to! Forever Freed is a paranormal romance about a reclusive, empathic vampire who falls in love with a woman he planned to kill and her young daughter, then fights his ancient guilt, bloodlust, lie by omission, and an old vampire rival who threatens everything he holds dear.

One thing I think is interesting and appealing about Forever Freed is that it is first person point of view from the vampire hero’s perspective. And Lucien Demarco is such an amazing, sympathetic, complicated character—his mind is an interesting place to be.

Another enjoyable part of the book is the heroine’s daughter, Olivia, who goes by “Ollie.” Ollie is as central to the plot and to Lucien’s character development as the heroine Samantha is, and Ollie’s often an incredible scene stealer. Not to mention how heart-melting it is to see Lucien and Ollie interact.

Readers will also enjoy the way the paranormal world in Forever Freed is meshed with the real world of contemporary Detroit, and the rationale for that is based on the true history of the city, which I think is pretty cool.

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Laura:  Ooh! I love this question! For Lucien, it’s so easy too! Alex O’Loughlin was THE character in my head the whole time I was writing Forever Freed.

This picture perfectly captures Lucien’s mood and the general atmosphere of the book. And, ya know, IT’S ALEX O’LOUGHLIN!!! (LOL) I’ve always had a harder time picking just the right actress for Samantha Sutton—maybe Amanda Seyfried or Kate Hudson—they both have that pretty wholesomeness about their look that I associate with Samantha. Dakota Fanning when she was young would’ve made a great Ollie, but of course she’s all grown up now! Dakota always had that cute precociousness that is totally Ollie. Thinking about the book being made into a movie is so much fun!!!

 Forever Freed by Laura Kaye

A heart can break, even one that no longer beats.

I stalk my new neighbors, a single mother and her child, drawn by the irresistible scent of their joy and love. I crave their blood, starved for some healing respite from my ancient grief. Now to lure them into my grasp.

But they surprise me. Little Olivia accepts me without fear or reservation—talking, smiling, offering innocent affection that tugs at my long-lost humanity. Her mother, Samantha, seeks me out when she should stay away, offering sweet friendship, and calling to the forgotten man within me. They lure me instead.

Ah, Dio, Lucien, run and spare them while you can…


Thank you Laura for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Laura Kaye and her books, please visit her website.

**Forever Freed Giveaway**

We are giving away one ebook copy of Forever Freed by Laura Kaye to one lucky winner and two sets of Forever Freed romance trading cards to two runners up!

To enter, please leave a comment on this post including your email address (so we may contact you if you win).  You do not have to be a follower to enter (though I always appreciate a follow!).  This giveaway is INTERNATIONAL.  Giveaway ends August 30th midnight EST.