Reader’s Edyn

I always felt like I could do something more than just read. Finally, I have found both a creative outlet and a chance to do something meaningful with my reading. This blog was created in appreciation of and tribute to all of the authors who have brought me joy through their books. These reviews are my way of giving back to authors and providing recognition for the hard work that each one completes every day!

Sunday, June 30, 2013

Promo with author Tanya Anne Crosby



Promo with author Tanya Anne Crosby


Hello friends! I am crazy excited about this book that I am sharing with you all today. Why? Well, it has everything to do with the cover and the genre. Admittedly, I know nothing about this author or her books. And after looking over this information, I am wondering why I have not yet read her work. I fully intend on rectifying that problem as soon as possible. I originally decided to look into this book and featuring it when I saw that it was both western and historical. I don’t go quite as far back with western historical romance as I do with historical itself, but as I came across more western settings, I couldn’t get enough of them. Historical romance is my absolute first love and western would be the second ~ although you could probably tie them up together, both being historical, and call them both my first romance genre love of all. Needless to say, once I read the blurb for this book, combined with the cover and genre, well … it was pretty much an automatic. I hope you enjoy getting to know a little about this author and book right along with me. Please allow me to introduce to the blog:


**TANYA ANNE CROSBY**


**BIO**

Tanya has written seventeen novels, all of which have graced numerous bestseller lists including the New York Times and USA Today. Best known for stories charged with emotion and humor, and filled with flawed characters, her novels have garnered reader praise and glowing critical reviews. She lives with her husband, two dogs and two cats in northern Michigan.

You can find out more about Ms. Crosby in the following places:



**SAGEBRUSH BRIDE**

Historical Western Romance
Publisher: Oliver Heber Books
Release Date: March 13, 2013
Heat Level: Steamy
Length: 372 pages


**BLURB**

Fiercely independent, Elizabeth Bowcock – “Doc Liz” as she’s known by all -- vows to raise her orphaned niece as her own. Unfortunately, the child’s grandfather has declared the unwed doctor to be an unfit guardian and refuses to deliver her to Liz's care until she finds herself a man...

Enter dark-haired, devil-eyed Cutter McKenzie. Outcast for his Cheyenne blood, the handsome halfbreed volunteers to pose as Elizabeth’s husband. But though his wicked sex appeal threatens to undermine Liz's independence, the road to St. Louis promises even greater perils…

Warning: This title is intended for readers over the age of 18 as it contains adult sexual situations and/or adult language, and may be considered offensive to some readers.


Buy Links




**EXCERPT**

By reading any further you are stating you are at least 18 years of age. If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary for you to exit this site.

“Mmmm, mmm,” Cutter murmured, embracing her as though she were his long-lost kissin’ cuz. “You’re looking better than ever, gal.”

Elizabeth’s heart jolted violently at the deep, unfamiliar voice. Warm lips kissed her cheek in a familiar way, taking just a fraction too long to leave her flushed skin, lingering at her lobe.

She swallowed convulsively.

He whispered in her ear. “Gotta loosen up, Doc, if you want this to look good... Come on now,” he coaxed, forcing her weight against him.

His husky voice set Elizabeth’s pulse to pounding, and her body into sudden paralysis. Powerless to fight him, she let him adjust her at will. Her legs felt wobbly, her body no more than mush in his hands.

“That’s it, bright eyes; now turn real slow,” he whispered, his lips scalding against her face, “act like you’re damned glad to see me.”

Elizabeth suppressed a helpless shudder as she worked up the courage to turn, fully intending to slap the britches off the fool who’d dared to be so intimate with her. But the man who faced her left her momentarily dazed, her throat too thick to speak.

Good night, but he was tall!

Her eyes refused to lower, but neither would they move up to his face. She forced them, and found dark hair flowing from beneath a dun-colored hat.

He cocked a brow at her, amusement flickering in his black eyes. He winked and she felt her knees go instantly weak... yet she couldn’t tear her gaze away even as they buckled.

He reached out to steady her, but Elizabeth continued to gape, helpless to do anything else. The longer she looked, the more she swore he didn’t have pupils, his eyes were so blessed dark... his face too tawny... his cheekbones too high. But it was those lips of his that unnerved her so: insolent, smug, kicked up only slightly at the corners, as though he couldn’t quite stifle his humor at her expense. His gaze roved, lazily assessing her, sliding down over her body slowly, seductively, then returning to her face to bore into her with silent expectation.

He anticipated some reaction from her, Elizabeth thought dimly, but couldn’t think what—couldn’t think, period. Staring as though transfixed, she tried to decipher his stony features but found her brain as useless as her limbs. But it occurred to her in that muddled moment that maybe he had appraised her with more than a mild interest, and her pulse quickened at that prospect. No one had ever looked at her in quite that way.

Not anyone.

Those dark eyes still piercing her, he raised two fingers to his brim, tipping his hat in greeting as the remnants of a smile turned the corners of his mouth. “Howdy, Liz,” he said huskily. “It’s been a mighty long time, gal.”

Long time?

Elizabeth shook her head, denying it, for if she’d ever set eyes on the man before now, she would have remembered. He wasn’t the type to be forgotten. Unconsciously she lifted a finger to her cheek, to the spot where he’d kissed her. Her throat constricted, seeming suddenly parched, and she licked her lips desperately as they parted to speak.

To her mortification, no words came.

For the first time in her life, Elizabeth Bowcock found herself dumbstruck. In spite of the man’s amused expression, he wore an air of menace about him like a second skin, and a tremor shook her as she averted her gaze to his boots. Dangerous, she thought.

The man was dangerous.

She hadn’t missed the fact that he had the most vicious-looking revolver she’d ever spied jammed into his gun belt, but she’d only just spotted the ink black knife hilt peeking over his faded leather boots. And those boots of his told a tale in themselves, for they were unmistakably U.S. Cavalry, and ominously inconsistent with his buckskin dress. There was little comfort in that he didn’t wear his weapons as Dick Brady did, like cheap jewelry. The fact that he kept his blade concealed and wore his gun casually, as though it were not there at all, told her all she needed to know. He was no gun-strutting cowpuncher. He was the real thing. As for the boots, she could think of a dozen reasons he should be outfitted so, not one of them reassuring.

A quick, wide-eyed glance to Jo told her that she was in no immediate danger, however. Jo’s lips lifted at the corners, and she, too, was on the verge of a smile, her kindly cinnamon eyes warm with humor.

Not really understanding why she felt compelled to, Elizabeth decided to play along. “Uh... um...”

Mercy’s sake, she didn’t even know his name! How was she going to pretend to know him if she didn’t know his blessed name? In panic, her gaze skidded to Jo.

“Cutter,” Jo supplied with a laugh, seeming to read Elizabeth’s thoughts. Her eyes gleamed with mischief. “I believe you have her tongue-tied, brother dear. Reckon she thought she’d never see you again.” Seeing Elizabeth’s confused expression, she laughed softly. “Isn’t that right, Liz?”

“Right?” Elizabeth nodded woodenly. Jo’s brother? “Oh—yes! I did think I’d never see you again!” She nodded dutifully for the benefit of their audience.

All eyes reverted suspiciously to Cutter, leaving her somewhat doubtful of her performance. Her brow furrowed.

Warmth invaded his eyes as he gently chucked her under the chin, much as a brother would a cherished younger sister.

Elizabeth felt suddenly too warm, almost as though she were being roasted over a slow fire. And the heat of his fingers... lingered upon her chin long after he’d withdrawn his hand. Mortified that he could affect her so, she averted her gaze to Brady. He was watching her with unflinching eyes.

His eyes narrowing to shadowy slits, Cutter turned to Brady and his men, sending them each an unspoken challenge. Brady fidgeted, flinging Elizabeth a doubtful look before turning away. The rest of his outfit followed immediately, slapping one another consolingly on the shoulder.

Elizabeth’s brows rose as she watched the exchange, astounded at the ease with which Cutter had handled Brady and his men. She opened her mouth to speak, but the words stuck in her throat like a spoonful of dry sugar. The man was just too smug for his own good. He’d had no right to be so familiar with her, but she did owe him her gratitude, no matter how reluctant it came. “I suppose I should thank you,” she said.

Cutter grinned. “Anytime, Doc.”



Be still my heart! Seriously, I could just kick myself for not reading Ms. Crosby before. I can tell you simply from the excerpt that this book is a must read. I have come across several western historical romance novels and it takes a special talent to be able to write like this. That excerpt flowed perfectly an left e wanting to know everything that I possibly could. The arrogant male with the wicked, knowing smirk and the strong-willed heroine inevitably doomed to succumb to his charm. That is magic right there. When an excerpt has the power to bring a story to life all on its own? Well, that is the kind of story I want to read ~ generally over and over again. I can’t wait! This book is going to be read without a doubt.

I hope that you all enjoyed getting to know a bit about Ms. Crosby and her wonderful western historical romance novel. If you love this genre as much as I do, I am sure you will find this book highly entertaining. If you are intrigued by the post today, make like me and grab yourself a copy right quick. And if you are so inclined, consider reviewing the book as well. These are the best two ways possible to support authors we love and enjoy. Does a review seem scary to you? No worries. You don’t have to wax poetic. Just let everyone know how you felt about the book within a few sentences. Viola! That’s it.

I want to thank Ms. Crosby for being here with us today. I truly appreciate everyone stopping in an spending some time with us today. Give us a shout out and let us know what you thought. Tell us what you think about the book or author ~ and if you haven’t experienced Ms. Crosby’s work before, just let us know what you thought of the post and if you are likely to read the book. I look forward to your feedback. I wish everyone a fabulous day and will see you all soon! Until next time …

HAPPY READING!!!






Friday, June 28, 2013

Spotlight with author Karolyn James



Spotlight with author Karolyn James


Hello again! Last week I told you all about an author who was new to me. We were introduced to the men in the band who comprise this series and were given a glimpse into the first book in the series, ALL ACCESS. Today we are back and continuing our exploration into this series with book 2, BROKEN SOUND.

***For fans of Nashville the TV show and Bella Andre, the BROTHERS OF ROCK series is dramatic, sexy, romantic,and entertaining. It sizzles!***

For those of you who may have missed the last post, I thought it would be fun to allow you to meet the band as well, so I decided to include the introductions once again. I have come across several series that center on band members lately. This one intrigues me. I hope that it catches your attention as well. Please allow me to introduce, once again:


**KAROLYN  JAMES**


**BIO**

Karolyn James is an award winning / bestselling romance & erotic romance author.  This is a different side of Karolyn, one that doesn’t just explore relationships, but the sexuality within those relationships.

Karolyn James is the author of the smash hit romance series, Brothers of Rock. Under the K James name, she writes romance with story and purpose.

Along with romance, Karolyn is the author of several erotic romance books and series, including the new hit Rock Her Curves series.

She prides herself off being able to interact with her readers and fans and always tries to respond to every Tweet and email.

You can find out more about Ms. James in the following places:



**BROKEN SOUND**
**Brothers Of Rock, Book 2**


**BLURB**

The second book in the Brothers of Rock series is BROKEN SOUND, where lead guitarist, Davey, is faced with life changing decisions involving love, family, and as always, music.

Rockstars expect women to show up at their hotel room, but when a woman shows up with an infant and tells Davey he is the father, his world is turned upside down. 

Anna is a teacher and part-time waitress, desperate to make enough to pay off debts left to her by an ex-boyfriend who made her life a living hell. When her boss schedules her for an extra shift, he tells her it's her job to take care of a special guest... lead guitarist of Chasing Cross, Davey. The second Anna meets eyes with Davey, she feels something she's wanted for a long time. But with someone famous? That's impossible. Besides, Davey is there with a date.

When Davey returns to the restaurant, sans date, he asks to see Anna. She doesn't understand what he would want with her. He is a man with a big heart, kind eyes, and the true power that only a real rockstar could have. Then Anna learns the truth of Davey's life, from his haunted past to his rocky present. Still, she longs to be part of his future.  But when Anna's own past turns potentially deadly, life and love suddenly collide in a way that could hurt everyone and leave someone dead.


Buy Links



**Meet The Band of Brothers**

I always wanted to write series, from the first time I decided to really become an author. I knew this first from my own reading experiences, watching the plot and climax of my favorite stories and then wondering what happened after the book ended. More so, there is always so much going on in and around life, with so many stories in itself. Plus, with a series, it’s like visiting old friends over and over. You know the characters and you get to enjoy them over and over.

For the Brothers of Rock series, each band member of Chasing Cross gets their own book. The rest of the band appears in the books and there are small plotlines that carry beyond each book. The successful response to the series has talks of expanding the books beyond five books and beyond Chasing Cross. I would love to bring in more band members or bands or anything to keep this series going. But first things first, for all the readers who haven’t had the chance to read Brothers of Rock yet, why not meet the band?

Lead singer and sometimes guitarist, Johnnie.  He’s the unclaimed leader and hero of the band.  He’s also in the first book – All Access – where readers get to know him, the band, and get to see Johnnie’s emotions as he has to make some life changing decisions in both love and life.

Guitarist, Danny.  He’s Johnnie’s younger brother.  He’s a little wild, always relying on the protection of his big brother.  He’s the main character in book three (Bitter Farewell – coming June 2013) and for the first time in his life, he must face the world on his own.

Guitarist, Davey.  In the second book – Broken Sound – Davey must come to grips with something potential in his past.  A woman shows up with a baby and says it’s his.  If that’s not heavy enough to deal with, Davey falls in love with a woman that isn’t the baby’s mother.  

Bassist, Chris.  Chris will appear in the fourth book and will have to face something similar to Davey.  His life and his decisions are called into question and this normally quiet, partying rockstar has to find a way to grow up and man up fast.

Rick, Drummer.  In the fifth book, you get to meet perhaps the most complicated man in the band.  He’s hiding so much emotion and hanging onto so many demons (especially those hiding at the bottom of a bottle), Rick finds himself struggling between trying to deal with his past, capture his present, and not lose his future.  To top that off, he makes a life changing decision… life changing for himself and for the band.

Along with these men come with the women they fall in love with, along with some other characters along the way too. With each book, it’s a whole new story to read… and the series doesn’t have to be read in order but it’s most enjoyable to do so! I really appreciate all the support for Brothers of Rock and hope to see it continue!


How about a taste of BROKEN SOUND? 


**EXCERPT**

By reading any further you are stating you are at least 18 years of age. If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary for you to exit this site.

He stood the guitar up and leaned it against the table.  Anna saw him deep in thought.  His mind was on something beyond the band.  She knew it had to do with the woman from before but it wasn’t her place to pick at him about it.
As she shuffled her way towards him, Davey let out a sigh.
“I liked it,” Anna finally said, drawing Davey’s attention.
He looked at Anna and she watched his eyes light up.  “Oh yeah?”
“Beautiful sound,” she said.  “No pick, right?”
“Just fingers.”
“Sounded great.  The whistling harmonized everything too.”
“That’s right, you’re a musician,” Davey said. 
“I wouldn’t call myself a musician,” Anna said.  “I play songs for kids to sing to.”
Davey put his hand out for Anna.  “That’s the greatest job of all.”
Anna looked at Davey’s hand and then took it.  He held her hand and smiled.
“I remember being a kid, in elementary school.  Our music room was in the basement.  We used to have to sit on the cold floor for music class.  And the teacher wore makeup that matched her clothes.  She had pictures of instruments on the walls and an old piano.  She sat with her back to us and played and sang.  Important moments for me.  I didn’t know that then, but I do now.”
Anna smiled.  That meant more to her than she could ever explain to Davey.  She took pride in helping kids with art and music, and sometimes dreamed of a student becoming famous because of her help at their young age. 
“I’m glad you had that music class,” Anna said.
“Well, everyone had that class.  I guess it worked out for the best.”
“I guess so.”
Davey tugged on Anna’s hand.  She hesitated for a second and then stepped towards him, towards the couch.  She felt her breathing already reaching what it was in the shower. 
“My gosh, Anna, I hope you don’t mind me saying it, but you look amazing right now.”
“I just got out of the shower.”
“I know.  But your hair... down.  It’s driving me crazy.”
Anna swallowed, unsure what to say to that.  She glanced at the guitar.  “Was that a song you’re working on?”
“Not really,” Davey said.  “Just messing around.”
Davey reached for Anna’s other hand.  When he took it, she shuddered.  His hands were big and warm, protective and comforting.  Anna looked down at Davey.  She turned her hands so their palms were touching.  An image flashed in her mind of Davey and the woman he brought to the restaurant.  When they held hands, their fingers weren’t interlocked.  Not that it should have mattered and Anna had no reason to remember such a pointless detail other than to fuel her jealousy.
She spread her fingers and they both watched and felt as Davey slipped his fingers between hers.  She sighed and felt his strong grip.
“Anna...”


So what did you all think? Tell me what you thought and if you are likely to read the book or not. If you are familiar with Ms. James and her books, I’d love to know what you think. Your feedback is always welcome. I take into account everything my followers tell me when making decisions about books. What about your personal preference? Do you like books with rockers? What is it about them that you do or don’t enjoy?  

I would like to thank Ms. James for taking the time to create a post for us and for dropping in today. I hope that you all enjoyed your time spent here today and that you liked getting to know a bit about Ms. James and her book. As always, if you want to read this book or series, be sure to buy a copy for yourself to support this author. Thanks so much for stopping in today. Until next time …
HAPPY READING!!!

Thursday, June 27, 2013

BLITZ with author Caroline Mickelson



BLITZ with author Caroline Mickelson


Good day to you all! I have a book to share with you all that sounds like a lot of fun. I am not going to waste time explaining it because it is all in the blurb below. But it caught my attention because it is a romantic comedy and I do not read many of those. I also like that it is a novella so can be read quickly. And the plot is pretty cute sounding. I am all for a bit of snark so I am thinking that this story is right up my alley; sort of a nice break from my usual genres. But not too long of a break. *wink* I hope you all enjoy learning about WITCH WEIGH. And be sure to read to the end for a special FREE offer. Please allow me to introduce to the blog:


**CAROLINE MICKELSON**


**BIO**

Caroline Mickelson loves her family and loves to write. She also loves a good adventure, among her favorites thus far were attending graduate school in a Scottish castle, riding a camel around the Pyramids in Giza, and taking a best-in-a-lifetime road trip to Graceland. Caroline lives in the American southwest with her husband and their four children, affectionately known as The Miracles.

You can find out more about Ms. Mickelson in the following places:



**WITCH WEIGH**

Genre:  Paranormal Romantic Comedy
Publisher:    Bon Accord Press
Date of Publication:    April 24, 2012
ISBN:   0985129646
ASIN:   B007X7CY5W
Number of pages:   155
Word Count:   29K Words
Cover Artist:   Derek Murphy

**BLURB**

Tessa Von Hellengaard is a real witch. Magical spells aside, she’s snarky and selfish, and the other witches in her silent spell coven are fed up with her. Their plan to reform Tessa involves taking away her magic, saddling her with one hundred extra pounds, and sending her to a weight loss spa.

For good measure they call in Liam Kennedy, a charming and sexy fairy godfather, to teach her some manners. Desperate to regain her magic and determined to shed the weight, Tessa soon realizes that protecting her heart from Liam will prove to be her greatest challenge.

Buy Links



**EXCERPT**


“Hey, lady, anyone ever tell you you’re a real witch?”
            “More times than you can imagine.” Contessa Von Hellengaard, Tessa to her few friends and many enemies alike, eyed the obstinate construction worker who blocked the path of her sleek black Mercedes.
            She wondered how this mere mortal would like being turned into a fluffy skunk. Her fingers itched to work their magic, but she kept them gripped on the steering wheel. She was already in enough trouble with the Upper Hallows Witch Council without casting what they would consider another unnecessary spell. If she was detained any longer she’d be late for her meeting with said council. Tessa knew they were already ticked off enough without her adding another infraction to their precious list.
            She leaned out the window. “Remove your overfed self from my way immediately. I need to use this road and I don’t have time for your ridiculous detour.”
            “Guess you should’ve used your broomstick then because there ain’t no way I’m letting your car get through here.” He crossed his beefy arms over his chest.
            He seemed altogether too amused with his juvenile humor for Tessa’s liking. Broomstick indeed. She revved the motor to let him know she meant business.
            He couldn’t say he hadn’t been warned.
            She pushed up her black lace sleeves and pointed to the orange and white barricade. “Last warning. Remove yourself and that thing from my way.”
            He laughed at her. Laughed. At her.
            She narrowed her eyes. This sorry excuse for a government employee was not going to make her late for her meeting. Removing him from her path, she decided, was a very necessary act indeed. She could make the council members understand. But only if she got there on time.
            With the tip of her red lacquered fingernail she traced a circle in her palm, silently reciting the spell that would get her what she wanted. A small, satisfied smile tugged at her lips as the man in front of her began to levitate. She stroked her index finger sideways to help direct his ascension. His shocked expression and angry torrent of curse words bothered her not at all. He continued to fuss and kick even after he was hooked on to the high crane by the back of his overalls. At over forty feet above the ground she could barely make out his foul words.
            Tessa flicked her finger across her palm with one last quick swipe and waited while the barricade went flying to the side of the road and crashed on a pile of rocks.
            She waved farewell to the construction worker as she slipped her Mercedes into drive. The fool would be wise to quit struggling or he’d soon have a painful wedgie.
            Silly mortal. He had no reason to panic. Someone would be along to get him down. Eventually.


So what do you think? Sound like a fun read? I like the twist in the story. Sounds like it may end up being a story of self-discovery and second chances. Tell me if you have any experience with this author. If not, what did you like about the post? Are you likely to read the story? Your feedback is always welcome.

**FREE OFFER**
From June 24th to 28th WITCH WEIGH will be FREE on Amazon. Hurry to take advantage of this special pricing and grab a copy for yourself. Be sure to spread the word!


I want to thank Ms. Mickelson for being here with us today. I hope that you all enjoyed getting to know a bit about Ms. Mickelson and her book. Don’t forget to grab your FREE copy while you can. And be sure to write a review to post if you are so inclined. It doesn’t have to be a lot. Just a few sentences is enough. And if you would like to write more, go for it. One of the best ways to support authors is to provide reviews of their work. Something to consider. I truly hope you all have a terrific day and until next time …

HAPPY READING!!!