Category Archives: Indie Publishing

April 9, 2013

How Do You Like Your Romance?

By Deb Sanders

pleasuring abigail

PLEASURING ABIGAIL

Alexis Thomas

An Erotic Romance novella

AMAZON

“Pleasuring Abigail” sizzles but still contains a certain sweetness and humor that tugs at the heartstrings.

Abigail Dutton is devastated when wealthy financier, Oliver Harrington, breaks off their engagement just weeks before the wedding. She’s worked hard to be the “perfect” mate – tempered her spontaneity, colored her natural red locks to a more respectable shade of  brown, and endured the pompous arrogance of her fiance with a patient smile. In other words, she’s lost her identity.

Abigail is certain her life is finished. She’s an over-thirty school teacher, lost her confidence and forgotten how to live. All that’s about to change.

When new neighbor and self-professed cougar, Charlotte, moves in down the hall, she takes Abigail under her wing and vows to restore the girl’s zest for life. Charlotte presents Abby with a sex toy so she can experience a real climax. Next she dyes her protege’s hair to a brilliant shade of red. And then convinces Abby to use her honeymoon tickets to Hawaii for a girl’s vacation getaway.

Abby soon meets Mitch, a sexy fellow tourist who is more than happy to introduce her to the pleasures of coupling. And then some. Abigail insists they keep things on a first name basis to assure her anonymity but finds herself charmed by the man both inside and outside of the bedroom.

Afraid of being hurt again, and confused by her new sexual desires, Abigail flees the islands and returns to her home in Sacramento.

Like a snowball rolling down hill, her life takes a few unexpected turns. Oliver is eager to restore their engagement. Mitch is not ready to let her go. And an opportunity to explore her darker side emerges. Abigail must come to terms with what . . . and who . . . she wants in her life.

“Pleasuring Abigail” is a fun, coming-of-age romance about a late bloomer who realizes one can blossom at any age.

Comments Off   |  tags: , , , , | posted in Adult Content, ebooks, Indie Publishing, Reviews, romance

December 25, 2012

WINNERS!!!!

By Deb Sanders

I’ve had two contests running, one of my own, one as part of Amber Kallyn’s Birthday Bash, and now I can announce all the winners! Free e-copies of the first two books in my Urban Fantasy series, Clans of Tagus – The GATEKEEPER and The WARRIOR – go to: (drumroll, please . . . )

Janet Brooks

Mary Preston

Beckey White

I’ll be emailing coupon redemption codes from Smashwords so you can download the appropriate file format for your ereader, computer or smartphone. If Urban Fantasy is not a genre you read, please pass it along to someone else who might enjoy my books. Thanks for playing!

2 comments   |  tags: , , | posted in contests, ebooks, free books, Indie Publishing, writer

December 23, 2012

It’s MY turn – New Release Contest “The WARRIOR”

By Deb Sanders

After months (and I mean MONTHS) of challenging aspects in my life, I’ve finally put them behind me – or at least toughened up enough to trudge through  - and released the long overdue second book in my Clans of Tagus series, “The WARRIOR”.

A short summation of my trials without going into a lot of details: a premature grandson with a rare genetic disorder which has, and will, require constant care. He’s a sweet, sweet baby. An angel, truly. But his life will not be an easy one so my hubby and I have decided to remain in the Carolinas. No more plans to return to Arizona, a long held personal dream.

But with that decision, I started a new course through uncharted territory. A little scary. An emotional tug-o-war. A complete alteration to my carefully planned future.

I’m ready to move forward now after weeks and months of NICU, specialists, worrying and resignation that life has taken on a different form with new priorities. Since I’d put my writing on hold while devoting time and energy to family, and ignored promotion, networking and creative plans for future books, my book sales, of course, took a nose dive. Summer is typically slow for digital sales. Mine was almost non-existent.

No problem. I’ll rebound. Finish edits and rewrites of “The WARRIOR”. A good plan until I hurt my shoulder. Since I was reduced to five and ten minute sessions at the keyboard before my fingers went numb . . . actually only two fingers because I couldn’t use all of them . . . it was a slow, depressing time. I considered walking away from writing altogether.

But some good meds, rehabilitation exercises and a glass of wine or two finally restored my usually optimistic attitude if not my complete mobility.

The beginning of 2012 was fantastic. The middle, devastating. The ending . . . a rebirth. And birth can be painful. Why do you think babies cry when they first come into this world?

“The WARRIOR” is now available on Amazon for only .99 cents and will soon be up at Barnes & Noble and Smashwords.  Please pass along the news.  I was moving upward at a rapid rate of speed when I took my tumble. Falling that hard and that fast hurts – but it taught me some valuable lessons.

  • Expect the unexpected.
  • Help those who are just starting out, because starting over is the same thing.
  • It really doesn’t matter if you fall, as long as you get back up.
  • Fear is as big a motivator as success.

There are many more bullets I could add to my list but I think you get the point. The last thing I want to say is “THANK YOU” to all my fans, friends and peers who kept me afloat when I thought I was going down for the count. I’m humbled by your support.

And to show my thanks, I’m giving away  ecopy sets of The GATEKEEPER and The WARRIOR to two lucky participants. Just leave a comment to enter. I’ll choose the winners on Christmas Day!

Deb

warrior3-001

The WARRIOR
by Deb Sanders

Genre: Urban Fantasy

33,000 words


AMAZON

SMASHWORDS

Coming soon to 

Barnes & Noble

 

DESCRIPTION:

Artimon, a Tagusian Warrior first introduced in The Gatekeeper (Book One), is working with the Underground on Earth to stop an impending invasion by the ruthless Warlords. When his investigation into a band of insurgents hits a snag, he reluctantly pairs with Zara, a Dark Fae archer with her own agenda for finding the rebel’s lair. After revealing her sister, Lily, is imprisoned at a secret underground location and has been forced to use her telepathic powers to contact the Warlord leader on Tagus, Artimon agrees to help Zara rescue Lily in exchange for information on the rebel’s bunker.

Artimon and Zara exhibit instant dislike for each other. Having shunned emotions in their quest for combat mental toughness, they attempt to override their hostility for the sake of the mission. But the two warriors become locked in a battle for competitive prowess and leadership. As tempers flare and emotions are unleashed, they soon find themselves fighting a different battle, one of intense attraction and sexual desire.

After Zara locates her comatose sister, she realizes the Warlord leader has imprisoned Lily’s consciousness on Tagus, and if her physical body and psyche are not reunited, she will soon die.

Artimon seeks out Kylie, the Gatekeeper, for assistance. They devise a risky plan to enter Tagus through a secret Fae portal at Ben Bulben, Ireland. Zara assumes they are on a rescue mission to free Lily but Artimon is determined to kill his nemesis from youth, Gunter, now leader of the Warlords.

Events push the two warriors toward a terrifying confrontation where their lives and love hang in the balance, as does the future of two worlds – a confrontation where one warrior will win but only at the expense of the other.

2 comments   |  tags: , , , , , , | posted in Books, ebooks, Indie Publishing, Paranormal, romance, science fiction, Suspense

December 5, 2012

The Next Big Thing Blog Hop – Week 29

By Deb Sanders

Thanks to Kristal Hollis for picking me for the Next Big Thing Blog Hop.  Check her out HERE and learn more about the awesome series she’s working on:

The Wahyas of Walker’s Run 

Book 1:  Howlin Hearts 

Book 2: Howlin Grace  Current work in progress

It is my understanding The Next Big Thing originated on the She Writes site and is designed to raise awareness of our work, or work in progress. We do that by answering ten questions about it. We graciously thank the person who nominated us, and tag five other authors whose work could well be that NEXT BIG THING.

My note: Unfortunately, with the holiday craziness, my fellow bloggers are currently inundated and not available to participate. So pop over to Kristal’s blog and check out her works in progress, as well as her host, Lori Sjoberg. 

Now on to answering the ten questions about my current WIP.

1- What is the working title of your book? The Warrior – Book 2 in the Clans of Tagus series

2- Where did the idea come from for the book? It’s the ongoing saga of a young woman who discovers she is the Gatekeeper, guardian to a portal that opens to another world, Tagus. The vicious Tagusian Warlords are plotting a war to take over Earth. In the second book, the Warrior, Artimon, pairs with a feisty Fae to save her sister who has been captured and imprisoned on Tagus.

3- What genre does your book fall under?  Urban Fantasy Suspense . . . that sizzles!

4- Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition? No brainer. Artimon is definitely Chris Hemsworth. Zara, the Fae, is Kate Beckinsale.

5- What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book? Caught between two worlds, a Warrior risks forbidden love with a Dark Fae as he fights to overcome a vicious warlord intending to annihilate Earth.

6- Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency? I’m a self published author on Amazon, B&N, Smashwords

7- How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript? The draft was not the issue. A few months. Unfortunately, my life took a hard curve when my new grandson was born with a genetic disorder. Just as I was getting my life back in order, I hurt my shoulder and could only type with one finger for a long time. I can still only type small amounts each day because of tendinitis and nerve damage. It’s made for slow edits and a great deal of discouragement. But I’m getting back on track. Hopefully, it won’t be much longer

8- What other books would you compare this story to within your genre? I think it would compare with Hunger Games to some extent.

9- Who or What inspired you to write this book? The book was originally planned as an Erotica series. I tend to add too much suspense for pure Erotica,though so it morphed into a hot, sexy fantasy series – which I like better. Book 1 – The Gatekeeper is rated 4 stars by Romantic Times.

10- What else about your book might pique the reader’s interest?  The characters are fun, saucy and full of contrast. The story is unfolding nicely. I definitely see a Book 3. Possibly a Book 4.

2 comments   |  tags: , | posted in Books, General, Indie Publishing

November 3, 2012

Joe Konrath: Amazon Removes Reviews

By Deb Sanders

Joe, as usual, voices a strong opinion. I’m in complete agreement.

Joe Konrath: Amazon Removes Reviews.

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October 12, 2012

October’s Hallowed Authors – Deb Marcotte

By Deb Sanders

This week’s October Hallowed Author  is Deb Marcotte – not because she writes Paranormal, Fantasy or any fictional genre but because she is an inspiration in a time filled with doubt, lost faith and dwindling humanity. Deb’s heartwarming account of what it’s like raising four special needs children in a small Oklahoma town is the stuff from which others find the strength to carry on. She’s the example people use when they say “my life has been troubled but it could be worse.”

And yet, she perseveres and we are all blessed because of it.

I grew up in Oklahoma. I know first hand how warm and caring most of the people can be. I also know how judgmental and small minded the rest can be. It’s a conservative area smack dab in the middle of the Bible belt. There are those who play on your pain by saying you weren’t a good enough Christian so that’s why God punished you – or took someone you loved. (Yes, I’ve heard those comments.) There are others who  work tirelessly to help any way they can without thought of recognition or receiving compensation. Oklahoma is a state full of contradictions.  It can be heaven or hell, depending on your perspective.

I think anyone who knows Deb would say she qualifies as God’s instrument, if one chooses to embrace those beliefs. Deb, on the other hand, would probably say it’s the other way around. She is blessed by the incredible gift of her children. Perhaps there’s a bit of truth to both.

You can follow Deb’s real life adventure at http://gifts-of-grace.blogspot.com/

You can also pay it forward by offering your own gift of grace. Purchase her book. It’s well written and a real tear jerker, not a hastily penned effort. Medical expenses are astronomical and each sale helps pay for her children’s ongoing care.

AMAZON

Book Description:

A mother’s worst fears are almost always centered on her children. Gifts Of Grace is the compelling and true story of Deb Marcotte’s worst nightmare becoming an unimaginable reality. As Deb anxiously awaited the results of the CT scan, she had almost convinced herself that her four-year-old daughter, Allie, was fine. A glance at the medical chart showed otherwise. Deb’s heart sank as reality was confirmed by the doctor with words that sent her world spiraling – “It looks like she has had a stroke. But there are older strokes that are present as well.” Guilt, fear, panic and an avalanche of other emotions erupted as Deb began to tearfully attempt some level of control. As she had done so many other times, Deb turned to God. Deb prayed for strength and understanding. She prayed that her faith would overcome her questions. This was the beginning of countless medical procedures in hospitals around the country. Allie would endure multiple brain surgeries and endless tests as medical experts worked to find a cure. Deb remained strong in prayer and even stronger as Allie’s advocate. Gifts Of Grace is an unforgettable story of a young girl’s inspiring strength, a mother’s unbreakable faith and indomitable spirit, and a loving God’s everlasting gifts.

3 comments   |  tags: , , , | posted in Books, Christian, ebooks, General, Indie Publishing, Reviews, Uncategorized, writer

October 3, 2012

October’s Hallowed Authors: Micheal Rivers

By Deb Sanders

I’m not a native North Carolina girl but I’m adapting at lightening speed. The Carolinas are rich with history, Southern comfort i.e. foods, hospitality, and supernatural lore. What’s not to love? And one of North Carolina’s home-grown Paranormal Thriller authors, Micheal Rivers, has become my go-to source for haunting, evocative tales. I recently joined a group of ghost hunters who frequent North and South Carolina paranormal hotspots, which makes Micheal’s books even more enjoyable because of the familiar geographical settings. So, first on my list of  October Hallowed Authors is Micheal Rivers, an author who should be on your list of “must read” authors.

Click on the cover art to read a blurb of each book. Appalachia Mountain Folklore will be released in November but you can save $$ by pre-ordering now.

        

BIO:

Micheal, an American author, was born in Ahoskie, North Carolina in 1953. He served his country during the Vietnam War in the USMC. Later, his travels provided over thirty years of investigating and collecting stories of the paranormal. His genres include horror and thriller with an element of paranormal in all of his novels. The Smokey Mountain Ghost Trackers of Western North Carolina was founded by him and he is the lead investigator. Micheal currently resides in the mountains of North Carolina along with the love of his life and his Boxer he fondly calls Dee Dee.

Visit his website http://michealrivers.com/
Email: contact@michealrivers.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/micheal_rivers or @micheal_rivers
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/MichealRivers.Author

6 comments   |  tags: , , , , , | posted in Author Interview, Books, ebooks, General, Indie Publishing, Paranormal, Research, Reviews, Suspense, Travel, writer

September 23, 2012

REVIEW: Mistaken by J.A. Howell

By Deb Sanders

Ready for a contemporary thriller filled with unexpected twists and turns? “Mistaken” offers all that and more.

There’s a lot going on in this story about murder, grief and redemption. The dynamic between the characters is well thought out, and the back story is layered in which adds to the suspense. The plot unfolds in such a way that the reader is kept guessing, never quite sure who the real villain is or why the murder was committed.

The story starts out with Dillan and Jamie, two lovers on the brink of commitment. Jamie is shot by an unknown assailant, leaving questions about the motivation of the senseless killing and Dillan struggling to recover from an emotional breakdown.

Fast forward to one year later. Dillan is surprised by the arrival of Jamie’s brother, Trey, a twin she had no idea existed. Still fragile from the loss of her loved one, she finds herself torn between suspicion – wondering what else he might have lied about – and attraction to a man who is the mirror image of Jamie.

Trey explains that he and his brother had a falling out after their mother died. His visit was an effort to mend the relationship. He’s devastated when he learns of Jamie’s murder.

Dillan realizes Trey is now alone in the world. She offers him a place to stay but his strange behavior and a series of even stranger phone calls has her second guessing the invitation. Convinced Trey knows more about Jamie’s death than he’s telling, Dillan sets out to learn the truth.

Ms. Howell takes us down a few rabbit holes on the way to resolution, doing an admirable job of keeping the reader guessing. The end is not sappy sweet as is often the case with romantic suspense. In fact, I’d label this as a thriller with romantic elements but those readers who insist on an HEA will still find the conclusion satisfying.

On the  downside, the book could have used a bit more editing to clean up some minor errors and tighten the plot. I’m not off put by a few mistakes if the story holds my interest, and “Mistaken” definitely did that.

This is an interesting tale with full bodied characters that will keep you turning pages.

**********************************************************************

Mistaken
J.A. Howell
 
Genre: General/Mainstream Fiction/Suspense
 
ISBN: 1477456368 
ASIN: B0092HDIXS
 
Number of pages:198
Word Count: 61,448
 
Cover Artist: J.A. Howell
 
Book Trailer:  http://youtu.be/46XSH5oXYzA
 
Purchase Links: http://amzn.com/B0092HDIXS
 
Book Description:

One year ago, two bullets from a .45 caliber pistol ripped away any hopes Dillan had of a future with her fiancé, Jamie. On the anniversary of Jamie’s death, the appearance of his estranged twin brother, Trey, leaves Dillan wondering what other secrets her prefect fiancé was hiding. When Trey learns of his brother’s death, Dillan takes pity on him and gives him a place to stay.
 
Trey’s erratic behavior and a series of suspicious phone calls lead Dillan to believe that Trey knows more about the circumstances surrounding Jamie’s death than he’s letting on. With all leads exhausted and Jamie’s murderer still on the loose, Trey is Dillan’s last hope for finding the truth.
 
Sometimes the truth hurts… but in Dillan’s case it could kill her.

**********************************************************************

Author Bio:
 
J.A Howell is an office drone by day, and a writer by night. Her love of writing took off when she was eleven years old and decided to fill a composition notebook with stories to read to her friends. Many years (and notebooks) later, not much has changed. She still loves writing and sharing her works with others. When she isn’t writing, she can often be found trying her hand at whatever artistic pursuit strikes her fancy. J.A. Howell resides in Apopka, FL with her husband and their menagerie of animal children.
 
http://midtown-underground.com/

http://www.facebook.com/JenniferHowlz

https://twitter.com/JenniferHowlz

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1472837.J_A_Howell

2 comments   |  tags: , , , , | posted in Books, ebooks, Indie Publishing, Suspense, writer

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