Monday, June 1, 2015

#GUEST POST and #GIVEAWAY: The Has Been Series by Kat Desalle and Kristin Leigh Jones

rod blast banner pbt 

TTTG-Strings, fake bodies, what lubricant to use, and which angle looks best on camera, these are all things Tony knows. What he doesn't know is how to pursue a real relationship, one outside the industry that's making him retire and leaving him behind. Tony DiMarco, aka Ting Tang Tony, made a big name for himself-- regardless of being small--in an industry where size truly does matter. He's had a long career hiding behind a camera lens where his shortcomings didn't affect him at all. At 38 he's forced to find a real life where hopefully size doesn't matter. The last place he thought his life would change is in Florida. Tripping over the gorgeous and upstanding, Emily Grant, snaps him out of the pity-pot he is just about to take a bath in. However, having never dated outside the industry has him second-guessing everything. How would someone possibly want his "little engine that could"? Can Tony open up about his playboy-style career, and more importantly, can he overcome the insecurities that he's shoved aside his whole life? Tony's got his work cut out for him, he needs to penetrate the walls Emily's built to protect herself and her own insecurities. Will she be able to handle Tony's crazy double life he's trying to hide from her, the one he lives back home in L.A.? There's a small chance it might work, that it might fit—something Tony certainly isn't used to. This may be his one opportunity to find that missing puzzle piece he's only been able to fantasize about. The whirlwind journey these two set out on will keep you rooting for the underdogs, and teach you that it's not always the size of the package that's important—it's what's inside that matters most. Genre: Romantic Comedy

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SMBOMT  Rod Stick—though his birth certificate says Rodney Moore— has everything a top-notch porn star ever wanted. Friends are his new family, money satisfies his every wish, and endless lines of willing and ready women fulfill any voids his jaded childhood left behind. Drugs and alcohol patch the remaining leaks those things can’t fix. However, things are beginning to change. His friends and their bachelor lifestyle are fading in the hot L.A. sun. Irresponsible decisions and self-destructive actions have his career on the rocks. Like his best friend, Tony, he worries he’s going to be the next “has-been.” To complicate things further, a certain sexy and dangerous amber-haired stripper is changing him into another person—one that he isn't sure he can handle. They say you can’t make a “ho into a housewife.” But two hoes? There are better odds in Vegas. Can Rod find the solace he searching for in his own private dancer, Crystal Amber? Settling down with her might close the door on that dark chapter of his life forever—the one he’s been running from since he was a kid. Or, will he lose himself and everyone else around him instead creating his own version of hell? Sometimes our own light is hiding in dark places. Will Rod find his? Genre: Romantic Erotica

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GUEST POST:

Mock Playboy Interview with Ting Tang Tony:
***Disclaimer: this mock interview is a work of complete fiction. It in no way represents playboy or any of its affiliates and has been created for promotional entertainment.***

June 2014 issue of Playboy magazine featuring an exclusive interview with Ting Tang Tony, Tony DiMarco

Playboy: Well, Tony, we are happy to have you here and meet the man behind infamous dick. Although, I must admit you are a whole lot of man without much to hide behind … you stand out with your good looks, and height. What are you, about 6’4”?
Tony: laughs. I’m 6’5” actually. And, I’m happy to be here today, Ashley. Even with dick jokes abound.

Playboy: I see you brought—a friend? Does this mean we can let our readers and your fans know that you are officially off the market?
Tony: Laughs again and throws his arm around a dapper, grey-haired gentleman to his left. This handsome, son-of-a-bitch? Nah, he is my best friend though. You all know him as Rod Stick. He couldn’t
pass up a trip behind the closed doors here at Playboy. He pats Rod’s back. Yup, he and I are just a bunch of lonely, single old men. He smirks over at his friend.
Rod: Speak for yourself. He snorts. I may be single but I am—sure as hell—never lonely.

Playboy: I laugh at both of them and their playful demeanor. Moving on. Tony, you have a big milestone for your adult film career coming soon, the 20th anniversary of your introductory film, Ting Tang Tony: And the Tale of the Little Erection That Could. Quite an accomplishment for a man of your … traits.
Tony: Yes, quite, I assume … considering all things. But that also means that I just know how to get the job done in many creative ways. He winks, and wags his brows.

Playboy: Blushing, I conceal a knowing giggle. Care to share how you got into the business?
Tony: Oh, you know, it just happens. Things led to one thing, and then another—I was young, the money was good. Not much to tell. He runs a hand across his buzzed head.
Rod: Looks at Tony, then me, and clears his throat. Oh yeah, the money is really good. Especially when you get your own title films or series.

Playboy: Right. Tony, you’ve starred in many but also seem to cameo quite a bit. You are brought in for shock and awe?
Tony: In the beginning and yes, some still, but I’m known for other things now as well. I have my talents.
Rod: Makes rude gestures with his hands in a “V” over his mouth.
Tony: Slaps Rod in the mouth. Surely you’ve done your research and watched some of my films. I don’t ever have an unsatisfied female co-star. I take pride in my craft—in my art. Something other people I know don’t put as much stock in. He jabs Rod in the ribs.

Playboy: Well, I think everyone knows about the famous Tony tongue. I believe Barbara did an interview a while back with us, and she spoke—no—raved about it. I suppose when you have a legend like that bragging about it, it must be something special. I fan myself. I think it’s getting hot in here.
Tony: Laughs and shifts in his seat, looking smug.
Playboy: So back to your work … Pride. Huh? Not something that usually goes hand in hand when you think about your profession. Any plans for the future—for after your glow in the ‘red lights’ fade?
Tony: I have plenty. Actually Rod and I are getting ready to leave for Florida for a shoot. It’s a 4th of July themed film titled: Out With a Bang. It should be great. Barbara Booberella, Rod, myself, Ric Gasher and Levi Johnson are featured. Plus, I have a few private business ventures in the works. I don’t foresee myself ever not being in this business. It’s become my life, and my family. All my friends are in this world and once you are here there’s not much room for you on the outside. The adult industry is like that bad tattoo you got in Mexico. It never goes away and you’re at least glad you got it someplace where people
will only see it if you’re naked—not something to share with your grandkids. I’m not ashamed about what I’ve done, or who I’ve done. I live with no regrets and take care of me and mine.

Playboy: ‘Me and mine.’ Does that mean, there’s a ‘someone’ in your life?
Tony: No, not like … that. As I said, I’m single.
Playboy: Hmm … Interesting. Well, that sounds like a good plan. Speaking of tattoos … And Mexico … Do you?
Tony: Of course, who doesn’t love a good margarita in the sand?
Playboy: So where is it?
Tony: Mexico? Hmm, well, you could get there driving south for a little over 2 hours or so depending on traffic. He smiles.
Playboy: Right, and the tattoo?
Tony: Tattoo? You were talking about Mexico. The corner of his mouth turns up.
Playboy: Yes, and tattoos.
Tony: Well.
Playboy: Ting Tang Tony …
Tony: Yes.
Playboy: That’s an interesting one.
Tony: Well, you know. He shrugs

Playboy: Ok, let’s wrap up with one final question: if you had to buy lingerie for a partner what would you buy?
Tony: Laughs.
Rod: Well, I can tell you it wouldn’t be latex inspired. Makes a crack the whip sound.
Playboy: Oh, no?
Tony: I do occasionally enjoy the whip and tickle. But, I’d have to say the thought of a woman in one of my tee shirts, completely comfortable with herself and me, is really hot. Besides, I’d just be taking it off anyway, and what’s underneath is sexier than any lingerie. Grins.
Playboy: Oh, and you’re a sweetheart to boot.
Tony: I’m just being honest.

Playboy: And I just made the big guy blush. You will make one special lady very happy someday, Tony. I know that for sure. That’s it, my work is done. We can’t wait to see Out With a Bang, the special 20th Anniversary Edition of Ting Tang Tony: And the Tale of the Little Erection That Could, and see what else is in store for you, Tony. Thank you for taking the time with us today.
Tony: Thank you for having me, and letting this guy tag along. He slaps Rod’s arm.
Rod: Hey, someone had to liven the party up. Thank you, Ashley, and Playboy. Now, where do they hide the Bunnies in the corsets? 

The guys laugh and continue their banter as they get up to leave.


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

kat and kristin author photo

About the Authors:

Kat DeSalle is one half of the crazy writing duo that created the HAS BEEN SERIES. Born and raised in California, she graduated with a degree in Fine Art, which introduced her to a number of creative outlets. She dabbled in various jobs ranging from teaching art, to working in the finance industry. Ultimately, she found her passion in writing. Now, she lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and children, where she follows her dream of writing romance novels. Friend Kat on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kat.desalle Tweet Kat here: @KatDeSalle Follow on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8346774.Kat_DeSalle

Kristin Leigh Jones is the wearer of many hats—not literally—although she does look good in one. From being a full-time mom, wife, chef, maid, dog walker, litter box scooper to owning a photography business and working as a freelance editor ... She now adds writer to her long resume. Between juggling all these tasks she squeezes in as much time as possible for snuggling her babies, reading, and watching football on Sundays in the fall. Da Bears! Hailing from the Midwest her whole life, she fully appreciates the change of seasons but admits to really only enjoying it less than 5 months of the year. Kristin is very thankful to have found another half of her brain in her dear friend Kat. Who, might be thousands of miles away, is never farther than a text or a phone call. Together they make up the dynamic duo writing and producing the hilariously romantic and sexy Has Been Series. Friend Kristin on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristin.leigh. Tweet Kristin here: @k_leigh_jones Follow on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8352892.Kristin_Leigh_Jones
For updates, contests, and news on the Has Been series check out these awesome links:
Like the Has Been Series Fan Page here: https://www.facebook.com/pages/ED-Productions/1507805652772415 Kat & Kristin's Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/KatDeSalleandKristinLeighJones Follow our blog here: http://execdprodz.blogspot.com/

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Saturday, May 30, 2015

#REVIEW: The Choosing by Rachelle Dekker


Title: The Choosing
Series: A Seer Novel
Author:  Rachelle Dekker
Published Date: May 19, 2015
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
Format: paperback
Pages: 448
ISBN: 978-1496402240
Genre: dystopian
Add to: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon

Rating: 3 1/2 stars

Synopsis: “Not to be Chosen would yield a cruel fate of my own making.”
Like all citizens since the Ruining, Carrington Hale knows the importance of this day. But she never expected the moment she’d spent a lifetime preparing for—her Choosing ceremony—would end in disaster. Ripped from her family, she’ll spend her days serving as a Lint, the lowest level of society. She knows it’s her duty to follow the true way of the Authority. 
But as Carrington begins this nightmare, rumors of rebellion rattle her beliefs. The whispers contradict everything she’s been told; yet they resonate deep within. 
Then Carrington is offered an unprecedented chance at the life she’s always dreamed of, but she can’t shake the feeling that it may be an illusion. With a killer targeting Lints and corruption threatening the highest levels of the Authority, Carrington must uncover the truth before it destroys her.

My Review: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I truly thought this book would drag, I mean come on, it is 450ish pages long. I was surprised when I started it one day and finished it the next. Carrington’s story pulled me in to the point where I needed to know what would happen next.
The society created by the author is painful at times to read, how much women’s rights have fallen since now, but it set up an amazing tension between what Carrington was raised to believe, and finding her own self-worth. Had she actually been Chosen, she never would have searched her own self-worth. She was just as happy in the society as everyone else, never questioning, as long as things went as expected. Even when they didn’t, she never showed any hint of rebellion.
This book isn’t like other dystopian books, where the heroine is an obvious choice, already standing out from society with her rebellious deeds or ideas, always questioning society as it is. Carrington is just as well-trained as every other mindless sheep in that society.
Over all, this book is an interesting read. Does the end set up for a good enough cliff-hanger for me to crave the next in the series? Not so much, and that disappoints me.

About the Author:

The oldest daughter of New York Times bestselling author Ted Dekker, Rachelle Dekker was inspired early on to discover truth through storytelling. She graduated with a degree in communications and spent several years in marketing and corporate recruiting before making the transition to write full-time. She lives in Nashville with her husband, Daniel, and their diva cat, Blair. Visit her online at rachelledekker.com. 

1. How did you come up with the story for The Choosing?

This is a hard question because it has many answers. I wanted to write a theme-based novel about identity. I wanted to write a dystopian novel. I wanted to write in a world that was familiar, but in a setting where I could change the way the world worked. It actually is several ideas I’d been toying with pulled into one story. Once I landed on Carrington’s core revelation and story arc, I simply fell in love with her as a character and drew the rest of the story around her. That’s usually how it works for me. I come up with a character, good or bad, and create the story from there.

2. You based your main character, Carrington, off of your younger sister. In what ways is Carrington like her?

It’s more the beliefs that Carrington struggles with that remind me of my sister. The idea of worth, of not feeling like you’re enough, or questioning whether anyone would choose you. Carrington came about as I spent time with my sister and her college-age friends and saw that a large majority of them were searching for significance, searching for worth—none more than my sister at the time.

3. Throughout the book, Carrington struggles with understanding her identity and worth and what is true. Why did you decide to write about the theme of identity?

Someone once asked me, If you could leave one message for your younger sisters, what would it be? The answer was always the same: I would pray they knew what they were worth. Identity is everything. There isn’t a theme that doesn’t start with identity, or circle back to identity. Knowing who you truly are is the greatest journey we face. Am I enough; am I worth it? I believe everyone faces these questions, and I sought out to explore them through this story.


Monday, May 25, 2015

#REVIEW: Siren's Fury by Mary Weber

Title: Siren’s Fury
Series: Storm Siren Trilogy #2
Author:  Mary Weber
Published Date: June 2, 2015
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Format: hardback
Pages: 352
ISBN: 9781401690373
Genre: fantasy
Add to: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon

Rating: 3 stars

Synopsis: "I thrust my hand toward the sky as my voice begs the Elemental inside me to waken and rise. But it's no use. The curse I've spent my entire life abhorring—the thing I trained so hard to control—no longer exists."
Nym has saved Faelen only to discover that Draewulf stole everything she valued. Now he’s destroyed her Elemental storm-summoning ability as well.
When Nym sneaks off with a host of delegates to Bron, Lord Myles offers her the chance for a new kind of power and the whispered hope that it may do more than simply defeat the monster she loathes. But the secrets the Bron people have kept concealed, along with the horrors Draewulf has developed, may require more than simply harnessing a darker ability.
They may require who she is.
Set against the stark metallic backdrop of the Bron kingdom, Nym is faced with the chance to change the future.
Or was that Draewulf’s plan for her all along?

My Review: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was very disappointed in this book. The previous book was incredible but this book was slow to get to the action. I found Nymia this time around to be angry, desperate, weak-willed, and rather pathetic. Once her Elemental powers were taken away from her, she became a sniveling, desperate, power-hungry woman who lashed out at everyone she encountered.
For half of the book, the action paced a snail… in molasses…. in February. Once the first half was done, the action picked up considerably, and I was actually happy to read the book. Still not happy with Nymia’s attitude…no seriously, she needed an attitude adjustment.

It wasn’t until the last 5 pages that Nymia finally learns her lesson: “I let out a dry chuckle—because isn’t that the truth of it all right there. That who we are is not our abilities. Not really. It’s more who we are in spite of them.” But it’s a very painful, slow lesson for the reader to have to go through, to watch Nymia be so pathetic because she lost her Elemental powers, she’s not resilient enough to find her own inner strength. 

Saturday, May 23, 2015

#TOUR: My Soul to Wake by Tara Oakes


MY SOUL TO WAKE IS NOW LIVE!
SYNOPSIS
Witchcraft. Reincarnation. True love. These are the things of legend. Unexplained, some even say impossible, but nonetheless prevalent in stories and tales from all cultures and in every land from the beginning of time. What if there is something to it? What if there is an explanation behind the mysteries and bedtime stories? Something beyond words? SALEM, MASSACHUSETTES 1692 She was taken from him in the cruelest way... condemned, sentenced and punished out of fear of the unknown. How is he supposed to live without her? How can he go on knowing that in this life, by the natural order of things, they will never be together? There's only one thing to do... only one option that will bring them together again. SALEM , MASSACHUSETTES TODAY Amelia is taken on a weekend excursion with her best girlfriends to let loose, relax and have a little fun. What harm is there in a little vacation? It's not like the legends, the haunted history of the place can scare them away. It's all harmless fun. Or so she thought. Something seems familiar about the town. The trees, the winds, the feel of everything. Her ever present nightmares have become more intense within the limits of the old historical setting. She's prepared to write off the whole trip as nothing more than a case of her mind running away with the sensationalized magic here. When she meets a handsome stranger who's eager to know her in a way no one else can, she begins to think there may be something more to this place, something more to him. Will has been waiting, biding his time, and praying that she'll come back. He's broken the natural order of things to possibly find her again, weaving their way through the years until they can be together again. He knows he may never find her, but he can't risk not trying. This place calls to her, just as it did to him. It will bring her back home. It will bring her back to him. What's 300 years when it comes to true love? He's prepared to wait an eternity if he has to, just to see her, hold her, kiss her again.. to make her remember what was stolen from them so long ago. To make her remember who she is, the power she possesses and the love they swore to each other.If you'd like to purchase My Soul to Wake, feel free to grab your copy here: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XUCJB4Q

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OTHER BOOKS BY TARA OAKES
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LEARN MORE ABOUT TARA
Tara is a thirty something newbie author from Long Island, New York. She's a voracious reader, a passionate writer and obsessive junk T.V. aficionado. When she's not doing one of those three things she is attempting to garden, hanging with her hubby or partaking in some retail therapy. She enjoys connecting with her readers and is having a blast entering into this new world of publishing.
FIND TARA ONLINE

Friday, May 22, 2015

#REVIEW: Forty Days Through Genesis by Ron Rhodes

Title: Forty Days Through Genesis
Series: none
Author:  Ron Rhodes
Published Date: February 1, 2015
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
Format: ebook
Pages: 304
ISBN: 9780736960960
Genre: Bible devotional
Add to: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon

Rating: 3 stars

Synopsis: The opening scenes in the story of redemption are essential for understanding what the rest of the Bible has to say about God, the world, and you. As you uncover the mysteries of the beginning of time, you'll discover how the sovereign God cares for the world, blesses those who walk in faith, and keeps his covenant promises.

To help you personally interact with the vital truths of Genesis, trusted Bible teacher Ron Rhodes provides...Scripture Readings and Insights--short passages of Genesis and easy-to-understand notes on each verse Major Themes--brief summaries of the most important ideas Cross-References--several other passages you can look up on relevant topics Life Lessons--practical applications to everyday life Questions for Reflection and Discussion--thought-provoking conversation starters for group discussions or personal journaling

Use this 40-day journey alone or with friends to fortify the foundations of your faith.

My Review: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I didn’t get that much out of this, definitely not as much as I thought I would. I will put the blame on the difference in theological beliefs that the author and I have. I think that because of those differences I couldn’t take this book as seriously as I would have normally. I also didn’t enjoy it as much because I found myself arguing internally with the beliefs.
So the lesson is: a Bible devotional has to at least line up with your beliefs at least somewhat otherwise, you most likely won’t get anything out of it. That can be more detrimental than helpful.


#PREORDER #SALE: My Soul to Wake by Tara Oakes

My Soul to Wake will be available for pre-order on May 23rd and May 24th for 0.99 cents. Make sure to get it at that time before it goes up to it’s regular price of $2.99! You can find teasers and the trailer as well as the synopsis below!
Witchcraft. Reincarnation. True love. These are the things of legend. Unexplained, some even say impossible, but nonetheless prevalent in stories and tales from all cultures and in every land from the beginning of time. What if there is something to it? What if there is an explanation behind the mysteries and bedtime stories? Something beyond words? SALEM, MASSACHUSETTES 1692 She was taken from him in the cruelest way... condemned, sentenced and punished out of fear of the unknown. How is he supposed to live without her? How can he go on knowing that in this life, by the natural order of things, they will never be together? There's only one thing to do... only one option that will bring them together again. SALEM , MASSACHUSETTES TODAY Amelia is taken on a weekend excursion with her best girlfriends to let loose, relax and have a little fun. What harm is there in a little vacation? It's not like the legends, the haunted history of the place can scare them away. It's all harmless fun. Or so she thought. Something seems familiar about the town. The trees, the winds, the feel of everything. Her ever present nightmares have become more intense within the limits of the old historical setting. She's prepared to write off the whole trip as nothing more than a case of her mind running away with the sensationalized magic here. When she meets a handsome stranger who's eager to know her in a way no one else can, she begins to think there may be something more to this place, something more to him. Will has been waiting, biding his time, and praying that she'll come back. He's broken the natural order of things to possibly find her again, weaving their way through the years until they can be together again. He knows he may never find her, but he can't risk not trying. This place calls to her, just as it did to him. It will bring her back home. It will bring her back to him. What's 300 years when it comes to true love? He's prepared to wait an eternity if he has to, just to see her, hold her, kiss her again.. to make her remember what was stolen from them so long ago. To make her remember who she is, the power she possesses and the love they swore to each other.
And don’t forget to join the Release Game! It will go from March 19th until Release Day. There will be prizes galore, including daily prizes! You can join the fun here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1628927154003076/
My Soul to Wake will be releasing on Memorial Day, 2015. MAY 25TH, 2015
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Thursday, May 21, 2015

#SPOTLIGHT and #GIVEAWAY: A New Threat by Aaron Demott

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Title:   A New Threat
Series:  The Psygen Chronicles
Author:   Aaron Demott
Published:  April 21st, 2015
Publisher:  AltWit Press
Genre:  YA Science Fiction

Synopsis:

When an alien ship lands unexpectedly in the middle of her clan’s territory, Bast is sent to investigate as part of her scout trial. After an accident, she meets these new visitors. She and her senior scout Rrrark are invited to return with the aliens to their home planet to open diplomatic relations. What started out as a simple diplomatic mission becomes complicated when they discover a pirate scheme that might be more than it seems. Only Bast, Rrrark, and two of the aliens called Pysgens are capable of stopping the pirates.


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About the Author:
Aaron has had a few different jobs, ranging from computer tech support, to real-estate, and lawn and farm sales and service. He also enjoys photography and reading, and has been a Star Trek and Star Wars fan for as long as he can remember.
The Psygen Chronicles, Book 1: A New Threat is Aaron’s first novel.


Amazon Author Page | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads




Excerpt from A New Threat by Aaron Demott:
Bast rushed through the forest while trying to maintain some measure of stealth. She flicked her ears in every direction and listened for anything unusual. So far, only natural sounds filled the forest.
The air was crisp and sunlight filtered through the leaves. The perfect day for her first assignment. She clenched her jaw, measured her breathing, and straightened her tail. She needed this assignment to go well. Only then could she be recognized as an adult.

Scouts from every one of the clans had seen the giant metal ship—something that large and with such an unnatural shape could only be a ship—come slowly down to the ground. If it kept going without a change in its speed or direction, it would land in the part of the Large Grassland which fell inside in her clan's territory. Besides, where could it have come from? What sort of creature would travel through the stars on such a craft?

She approached the edge of the forest and looked around for a nice bit of cover. She found a line of bushes between a stand of trees. It would work perfectly and provide an escape back into the forest if it became necessary. She sat on her haunches behind the brush, curled her tail around her feet, and licked a speck of dust off one of the white patches of fur on her paw. The ship should land soon.
"It could be crashing too..." she mused aloud.

But the scouts and scientists had reported it was on a stable course and wasn't on fire or anything. She liked surprises–for the most part–and this would certainly be an interesting sight. A faint, high-pitched noise came from the west. She poked her nose from the bush and raised her whiskers in that direction. Nothing yet. She waited a little longer. The sound grew louder, and a slight wind blew across the plain.


Giveaway Details:

There is a tour wide giveaway. Prizes include the following:
  • Signed Print copy of A New Threat (US only). If winner is INT the prize is an ecopy of A New Threat.
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