Tag: Paranormal Romance

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author

Interview with an Author featuring Kenzie Graves

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Kenzie Graves! Her debut, She-Wolf and the Beast: A Rejected Mate Retelling (Love is Grimm Book 1) released on October 31st 2021.

What inspired you to start writing?

I always wanted to be a writer ever since I read Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone when I was about 11. I tried many times to write a story, but never seemed to be able to complete it. Then when I was about 21, I had a dream that was extremely vivid and I sat on that idea for four years. I was in a group chat with two indie authors in 2019 and they encouraged me to get that idea on paper. So, I finally did after I had my son in October 2019, and published the story in June 2020!

What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk?

I have been told that I tend to write the FMC’s best friend to always be extremely sassy. In every book that I have written, this has happened. That and every animal counterpart I write is very sassy and tends to want the FMC to do things to the MMC.

How do you deal with the emotional impact of a book (on yourself) as you are writing the story?

I actually tend to go through the emotions with my characters. If they are making a joke, I am laughing at it. If they are angry at another character, I am angry along with them. When their heart breaks or suffering from a loss, I am holding back tears as I type out the words. My characters are a part of me, so I experience everything that they go through as I type out the words.

How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

I have written 11 books so far, and I would have to say Little Red Wolf has been my favorite. It was the first book that I wrote spicier scenes than normal, and it broke me out of my shell. The FMC and MMC were so fun to write. They truly loved each other from the moment I created them, and it was so easy to write their story because of it.

What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

I would have to say Patricia Briggs and P.C Cast. Patricia Briggs’s Mercy Thompson series was the first series that was Urban Fantasy and a little PNR that made me only enjoy stories that had some form of magic or paranormal creature inside of it. Both authors are incredible with their world building, character arcs, and amazing storytelling that I aspire to have in my own stories.

Do you hear from your readers much? What do they say?

Every so often I get a reader who reaches out to me. Not too long ago I had a reader join my group and post in it that Little Red Wolf got her out of a reading slump and it made my life. It truly keeps me wanting to write when I hear from my readers. I love when they post in my group or PM me on messenger!

What book is currently on your bedside table?

Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin. I watched the show and I hear the books are monumentally better, as books usually are, and I want to read the details that the show missed.

Do you have any new series planned?

I do! After Love is Grimm, I have a whole new world planned of 5 different kingdoms and in each kingdom the FMC will go through their own journey of rejection and finding mates that truly love her and will support her. Some may have some enemies to lovers thrown in, too.

If your book was to be made into a movie, who are the celebrities that would star in it?

My current series are standalones, so I’ll go with She-Wolf and the Beast. I’d say Bella Thorn for Isabelle, Dove Cameron for Abby, Dylan Sprouse for Colin, a young Johnny Depp for Garrett and Liam Hemsworth for Aiden.

What advice would you give to other authors?

I would have to say learn your genre, build your readership, and have an understanding of how to market within your genre before you even start writing. I didn’t, and it has been a struggle. I am learning as I go, which is the hard way, and it will make your life easier if you learn those things before you jump into publishing.

What is the one thing you want people to know about you and your books?

It is my passion to be an author. I’ve wanted to do this since I was eleven years old and becoming a bookworm. I’ve always been someone who loves to help others, and I see this as my way of helping others I don’t even know. If I can provide you an escape from reality when you need it most, then I did what I set out to do. I hope to make someone’s day by reading the worlds and characters I have created just like the authors I read growing up did for me.

Thank you Kenzie Graves for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out She-Wolf and the Beast today!

~Synopsis~

A rejection. A deal. A curse that needs to be broken.

After being rejected at her birthday party, Isabelle Crane banishes her Fated Mate from the pack. Garrett refuses to accept that fate.

Garrett attacks the pack, causing Isabelle’s father to seek help from the Alpha of the Sanction, Aiden Black. Only, The Beast keeps her father captive and Isabelle trades his life for hers. The Beast accepts in hopes that Isabelle is the key to breaking his curse.

As Isabelle adjusts to her life in a new pack, Garrett lurks around the territory. He wants to reclaim Isabelle and doesn’t care who he hurts to get her back.

If you like Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and Jaymin Eve’s Shadowbeast Shifters, you’ll devour She-Wolf and the Beast!

Find out how this fairytale retelling mixes with wolf shifter romances by reading it today!

This is a standalone within a series, 100k words full-length dark paranormal romance novel. Content is 18+ with sexual and adult content.

Kenzie Graves is a paranormal romance author within the dark, rejected mates, and why choose subgenres. She is a mother of two and two fur-babies. Her love of reading evolved into her love of creating her own worlds and characters for others to enjoy!

https://linktr.ee/kenziegraves

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author

Interview with an Author featuring Jenna Rivers

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Jenna Rivers! Her paranormal romance book, Spell Shocked (A Charmed Midlife Book 1) released on March 8th 2022.

How long have you been writing?

I used to write when I was younger, but I started writing longer fiction about a decade ago. I started off with contemporary romance, but I love all things paranormal too much not to include witches and vampires and fairies (oh my!) in all of my stories. 

Describe a typical writing day.

I just got a brand new “used” desk that I absolutely love. It’s become the grounding of my work, and now I love being in my office all day long. I get up in the morning, grab my breakfast and coffee, and sit down to do some writing sprints first thing. Usually, I have one of my cats sitting near me. When I get tired of sitting, I have a standing desk that I also use. I typically finish writing by lunchtime, and then in the afternoon, I either write more or plan what I’ll be writing the next day.

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

Lately, I’ve been getting a lot of inspiration from the shows that I watch. I fell head-over-heels in love with Netflix’s Wednesday, and I also love the show A Discovery of Witches. A lot of times, I’ll even get inspiration for stories from non-paranormal shows when I imagine what they’d be like if you added supernatural elements to them. 

What are some challenges that have come up during your writing and publishing journey?

Unfortunately, I lost my father a couple of years ago. That really rocked my creative world and made it more difficult to find my footing in my writing again. The good news is that I feel like some of those skills are returning, and I’m so excited for the books I’m working on.

When you’re writing an emotionally draining (or sexy, or sad, etc) scene, how do you get in the mood?

Music is the key for my inspiration. Whether it’s listening to Lo-Fi music while writing or setting the mood, I constantly have my noise-cancelling headphones on so I’m immersed in the sound. I have my go-to playlists for different moods. For example, I listen to a band called Two Steps From Hell and their music when I want to write a fight scene because what they play is so cinematic.

If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Chatty, loyal, and determined.

How do you deal with emotional impact of a book (on yourself) as you are writing the story?

Sometimes, if a book takes a toll on me, I’ll have to do some self-care days. That could mean no writing at all, allowing myself time to read instead of write, or getting out of the house completely to go out and get in some exercise outside. I also have some special places I like to write in that help me push through the tougher scenes to write because I find comfort being in them.

Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with me?

I am finishing up Bombspell, book 2 in my Charmed Midlife series. Fun story is that I had a clear outline and plan for my characters. And yet, they had other plans for themselves, so it’s taken extra time to adjust the story and give them what they want. It’s hard realizing that your characters sometimes know better than you.

What advice would you give to other aspiring authors?

Write your first book all the way through. Get some feedback on it, pick some top things to fix, but then get it out there. After that, write your second book. Writing is a skill that you have to practice, and the best way to get better at it is to write the next book and the next book. Also, perfection is overrated, and trying to make a book perfect means you’ll never share your story with anyone else but yourself.

What is the one thing you want people to know about you and your books?

I put a lot of myself and my life into my stories. While I might not always share the exact details, I hope the readers feel like they get to know me through my writing.

Thank you Jenna Rivers for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her paranormal romance, Spell Shocked today!

~Synopsis~

One feisty aunt with talking animals, a surprisingly supernatural lakeside town, and a boatload of magic are all it takes to shake up my midlife.

No one should live day to day just to exist. It only took an invite from a person I’ve never met to a place I didn’t know existed to tempt me to walk…no, run away from everything I knew. How sad is it when I’m the last one to see that my crappy life needs a do-over?

Starting over in my midlife wasn’t exactly the plan. But with the discovery that I actually have an aunt I never knew existed, magic is real, humans can turn into animals, and there might even be a real freaking dragon living in Guardian Lake—I can’t help but hope there has to be a better life waiting for me to choose it.

I’m going to make the rest of my forties fabulous by any means necessary. From here on out, I’m carving my own path in life, choosing my own adventures, and creating my own happy ending.

Once I get the hang of my Charmed Midlife, I intend to never look back!

Spell Shocked is a slow-burn romantic paranormal women’s fiction with a woman who’s rediscovering her sass and learning how to kick a little ass.

Jenna is a lover of all things paranormal! When she’s not dreaming of hot shifter men or deciding what magical power she’d like to possess, she’s busy writing Paranormal Romance and Paranormal Women’s Fiction. She suspects she’ll be inheriting her powers any day now that she’s officially middle-aged, although she thinks she’d use her magic to help her write more words faster. When not writing, she’s busy playing ukulele, hiking, or learning a new recipe to cook!

Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jenna-Rivers/author/B09GH2H91P

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennariversbooks

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/659904638465163

Website: https://jennariversbooks.com/

Review

Wicked Match (The Wicked Book 2) by Luna Joya – My Review

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Title: Wicked Match (The Wicked Book 2)

Author: Luna Joya

Release Date: November 8th 2022

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy, Fantasy Romance

Can a good girl witch princess and a bad boy bodyguard fight their way from enemies to lovers and stop a killer?

Good girl Prys Bane is the ultimate witch princess—titled, rich, beautiful, and from the best royal bloodlines. But the STEM genius would rather hide with her statistics and crush on a forbidden bodyguard than marry a proper prince. Better to guarantee that no one discovers her true magic—powers more suited to a storybook villain than any princess.

Bad boy John Donovan has pretended to be a bodyguard while hiding his supernatural double agent status from everyone—even his own sisters who see him as the villain. Crushing on Prys seemed safe until he learns she’s not only the witch magistrate investigating a murder where his sister is the chief suspect, but Prys is also the matchmaker hired to force him into an arranged marriage.

When John and Prys are pulled into a deadly mystery that comes closer and closer to the couple by the hour, they must work together. When Prys discovers John’s kink, these enemies quickly become lovers whose passions ignite. Can this princess and her antihero find happily ever after or will the killer be a best friend whose betrayal neither can survive?

Who doesn’t love a good girl/bad boy story?

Especially one written by the fabulous Luna Joya. She brings all the steam and that slow burn will leave you wanting more. Long after you’ve finished. In Wicked Match, we learn more about John. Secrets will be revealed. Everything is not as it seems. I devoured this book! That twist! That ending! It had my heart racing and me shouting at my kindle. I’m not dramatic at all. 

This was another highly enjoyable read. It has action, suspense, steam, and a twist you didn’t see coming. If you’re a fan of paranormal romance with steam, this book is for you! Skip adding it to your TBR and just dive right in. I give this 5 stars. 

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*

New Release · Review

Whispers In The Woods by Ariel Dawn – My Review

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Title: Whispers In The Woods

Author: Ariel Dawn

Release Date: January 31st 2023

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Why Choose

The darkness called, and she followed it like a moth to a flame…

In the wake of buying Ashwood Manor, Jenna Hellsing discovers that a grumbly gargoyle and a sexy shadow are not the only monsters haunting her. The terrifying beast in the woods is calling her home, and the truth begs to be set free…

As Jenna slips into old habits and her past collides with her present, she finds herself in the middle of a deadly game, one that is all too familiar.

Flint never thought he’d have a second chance. A chance to love again, a chance to re-write the past. Though it seems not even a Hide-Behind can outrun fate, and danger follows Jenna wherever she goes…

Will Flint, Degal, and Shadow refuse to let history repeat itself… even if it means they have to face their own nightmares and ghosts?

The highly anticipated follow up to Voices in the Dark, Whispers in the Woods is dark, steamy, and will get your pulse racing!

The characters need to face their past to move forward. We also meet Flint. Ah Flint. Love him! There’s a bit of suspense and those steamy scenes….*chef’s kiss* I’m a huge fan of dark reads and Miss Dawn did not disappoint.

This was everything and more! This was an engaging guilty pleasure read. I was not disappointed! I highly recommend this and the first book. I love the author’s storytelling style and I look forward to reading more from her. I give this 5 stars.

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author

Interview with an Author featuring Ericka Shanniak

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Ericka Shanniak! Her book, Opening Danger: Dangerous Ties Book 1 – Paranormal Romance released on October 31st 2021.

How long have you been writing?

I’ve been writing since I was a junior in high-school back in 2008, haha. After I had both my kiddos, I decided to take the leap of faith and write my first ever book Piercing Jordie (formerly Jordie In Charge) and sent it to a small press publisher. She accepted me, the book (it needed a lot of work) and invested in me. If it wasn’t for her, for Teresa, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today. I owe her everything. I’ve since paid her back for the series and got my publishing rights back. We stay in touch.

Describe a typical writing day.

Oh goodness, I write when I have a moment. I will write on the toilet taking a poop, feeding the chickens, out fishing, I will even wake from a dead sleep and write about a scene that came to me. But usually, since I work in 911 dispatch, I will write when things are uneventful and I can squeeze it in. Writing at home with kids is hard.

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

From everyday living like from an encounter with someone at the grocery store, messages or emails, or phone calls I take in dispatch. For example, back in June of this year, I got a call from a guy looking for his booty call who was a no show. I said sorry I’m not it, but please feel free to use protection and call back when you have an emergency since we’re here to assist. The guy called back 15 minutes later and asked if I wanted to be his booty call… I’m damn serious… So, things like that give me inspiration for characters then I just add in whatever like magic or sexy wolves and voila, I pulled a book outta my butt because I literally pants the entire thing.

What gave you that push to press the publish button?

My former small press publisher, Teresa, said I was a dang good writer and she believed in me. Her believing in me, gave me the confidence I never had. And it means everything to me. So, her taking me under her wing and guiding me gave me the courage to just go for it. Teresa is an amazing woman.

When you’re writing an emotionally draining (or sexy, or sad, etc) scene, how do you get in the mood?

Well… If it’s a sex scene, I go to my husband for a quickie just to make sure what I wanna do works bahaha! And if it’s something else, I just tap into that part of my memories I repressed as a kid (I had a hard childhood) and just go into what I felt during that moment and write it. It takes me a few days after writing a scene that’s so draining to get back into the groove and feel like myself again. My husband has to help me come down from those emotions because I will spiral like I did in Uplifting Irie. I went too far deep and he had to pull me out. I later deleted a lot of what I wrote because I went too dark. My husband is an amazing man.

If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Direct, humorous, and unapologetic.

How do you deal with the emotional impact of a book (on yourself) as you are writing the story?

First, I shake off the nerves. Then I take a shot and shake off the rest of the nerves. I pump myself up and tell myself that I got this and whatever I am writing is not real (if it deals with my trauma because I got to remind myself that I’m okay and safe). Then I just plunge right in, get it written then tell my editor Tiffany what page and what chapter might need some TLC if I go too far deep into that.

Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with me?

I just wrapped up my second book to my Alien RH series. It’s the 30th book I’ve written. I just sent it to my amazing editor Tiffany Purdon. Next I will be working on a contemporary mafia romance set in my small town of Coldwater Kansas. (I changed the name to Coldriver) but I kept the people and their jobs the same, just changed a few vowels of their names. And at the same time, I will be working on a new fantasy romance series. I have no idea where I’m going with that one yet. I am a pantser.

What advice would you give to other authors?

Don’t read reviews. Just work on putting the next book out there and make it better than the last. Don’t get discouraged, easier said than done, I get it, but keep grinding. If you’re going to spend money on an edit, do developmental because with your friends and writing tools, you can do a pretty good line edit yourself but you’re too close to the story to figure out if there’s a plot hole. And get yourself a funny, honest, sarcastic friend to read your book, their advice is helpful whereas everyone else will just be like “it’s good.”

What is the one thing you want people to know about you and your books?

Golly… I want people to know that I try my best. I do my best to put out fun, entertaining and unique books with diverse characters. If you pick up one of my books and like it, badass, and if you read it and are like eww, then badass. But I want ya to know that I did my best and stayed true to myself. I have no reeegurtz lol.

 

Thank you Ericka Shanniak for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her book, Opening Danger today!

~Synopsis~

I wanted the quiet life – coffee on the front porch reading a good book – kind of life. And when it came to danger, or any type of confrontation, whether from former boyfriends or nasty pink faeries, I tried to avoid it. This time though? I couldn’t escape it. I’m being dragged toward danger by a handsome, jerk of a werewolf who calls himself Evander.

It doesn’t matter what I say to Evander, what I have or haven’t done, it only matters what I have in my possession – a key. And because this stupid hunk of metal, my death awaits me.

In order to bring an end to this bullshit, I must convince Evander to help me. With his help, I can absolve my name. If not, then death for me is certain.

Opening Danger is an enemy to lovers slow burn paranormal romance where descsex is guaranteed in books 2 & 3.
*** WARNING – this book contains scenes and language that some readers may find disturbing and or triggering. ***

E.A. (Ericka Ashlee) Shanniak is the author of several successful series – A Castre World Novel – Whitman Series Western Romance – Dangerous Ties Series. She is hobbit-sized, barely reaching over five feet tall on a good day. When she wears her Ariat boots, not only does she gain an inch, she is then able to reach the kitchen cabinets to get all the snacks. When not in her fox den for a few hours (writing cave), Ericka loves to spend time with her family – outside having campfires, fishing, camping, or zooming in a car to another midwest adventure. Ericka loves all the animals her kids bring home including numerous barn cats and their newfound bantam chicken named Strip.

Ericka is an emergency 911 dispatcher (used to do medical billing) residing in the small town of Coldwater, Kansas with her supportive, wonderful husband, two amazingly loving kids, and whatever animals her kids bring home this week. So far, it has been her husband who decided she needed ducks. You’re welcome to follow her on her Kansas adventures with these social media platforms listed below.

FACEBOOK

AMAZON

INSTAGRAM

TIK-TOK

or at her Facebook group – Shanniak Shenanigans

Website: http://www.eashanniak.com/

email: erickashanniak@gmail.com

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author

Interview with an Author featuring Billie Jade Kermack

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Billie Jade Kermack! Her debut book, Awoken: A Paranormal Romance Murder Mystery Book One release on January 3rd 2016.

When did you realize you wanted to be a writer?

Some of my earliest memories are of reading, devouring anything and everything that I could get my hands on. I created poems and stories of my own over the years but it wasn’t until I was about 13 when I realised I could actually do what all the authors I loved had done. I had a fantastic teacher at school who encouraged me to pursue my dreams.

What about the genre you currently write in, interests you most?

So my first completed trilogy are paranormal romances with a murder mystery twist. I am a massive horror fan and have always been fascinated with the supernatural. It gave me the opportunity to explore a world that has far more questions than answers, it offered me a freedom of sorts to create a fictional world based on my ideas without too much intrusion from real life. My current book for release is friends-lovers romance with a non-traditional HEA, I’ve loved lending my own brand of humour to the story with this one, as it is intended for a more adult audience than my first series I have been able to play with the characters a little more freely.

Haunted house or corn maze?

Haunted house every day of the week.

Do you ever come up with anything so wild that you scare yourself, that leaves you wondering where that came from?

When I say all the time it is an understatement. For me my imagination plans out an idea as though it is fluid. I have no idea where it is going until I get there, which is part of the fun. I do have an off switch, that little voice in my head that screams at me if I go too far down the wrong current with an idea that maybe isn’t right for my audience or maybe it’s a decision that doesn’t fit the characters personality. Life has a tendency to bleed into fiction so my writing can change with my mood.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so who? And what makes them so special.

My favourite character that I have created is the villain in my paranormal romance series. I am a sucker for true crime so putting pen to paper and creating Glen Havers; the serial killer spirit who haunts our protagonist was a dream. The intricacies of building a character I couldn’t possibly relate to on any level meant definitely kept the process interesting.

Do you ever research real events, legends, or myths to get ideas?

I try to research as much as possible but usually it is for an existing idea. Thankfully I’m not yet short of ideas, some that will probably never see the light of day but are there if I ever want to change it up. The smallest of details can help to make the story more enjoyable for the reader, that really bring it to life and make it relatable.

Do you look to your own phobias to find subject matter? Are your stories the products of nightmares, childhood experiences, fantasies?

I definitely think I insert a part of myself into everything I write. My paranormal romance series was a cathartic expression of loss that I feel like I needed to write in order to heal from a childhood experience that is at the core of the protagonists story, it allowed me to relate with my character and I think my writing benefited from that first hand experience. I always have a notebook and pen beside my bed, my dreams and nightmares are very vivid, sometimes too vivid, so I will always note it down when I wake up if I find it interesting enough. The male lead characters, as I predominantly write MF romances, has qualities I would like in a partner, I think that is relatively normal for an author though.

Do you have any fun Halloween experiences you can share with us?

Fun Halloween stories, where to start. My birthday falls on the day before Halloween so every year we have a costume party, they are always fun experiences. Another one of my jobs is as a makeup and SFX artist so I get to play with all things bloody and gory all year round but especially closer to Halloween. It is for sure my favourite time of year.

What advice would you give to other authors?

What advice would I give to other authors? Firstly, there is comfort in numbers, I have some amazing author buddies and we share what we have learnt with each other and offer support to one another if it is needed. It can be lonely being an author so reach out and build your author circle with likeminded people. Secondly – Marketing is not easy, but it is necessary. There are so many great tools online to give you ideas on what, when and where to share your work. And lastly it doesn’t matter if you’ve written the next worldwide phenomenon, not everyone is going to like your book and that’s okay. Side note – Try to shake off the bad reviews because you will get them, your book is for the people that love it, just remember that.

What is the one thing you want people to know about you and your books?

One thing I would like people to know about my books is that I have loved creating worlds that people have fallen in love with and I adore getting to know my readers.

 

Thank you Billie Jade Kermack for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her paranormal romance murder mystery series today!

~Synopsis~

Awoken is book one in this paranormal romance, murder mystery series.It’s a modern-day love story that’s more Grimm than Disney; if singing mice and dancing crabs are what you were looking for, this is not the book for you. Seances, time travel, and torture, however – if that’s your thing, you just might fit right in.
Twilight vibes with a splash of horror and some ghost hunting. Perfect for your next young adult read.

Grace didn’t believe in ghosts or demons, she thought magic was something that only lived in the pages of fairy tales.

How very wrong she was.

Hidden away most of his life, Beau had successfully managed to mask his gift from the world. Having the ability to commune with the dead wasn’t exactly the best conversation starter, and that was okay, he didn’t much like people anyway, until he walked back into Gallows Wood and into Grace’s life.

Struggling with the incessant onslaught of nightmares about her father’s untimely death, Grace had accepted that maybe she just wasn’t destined for a happily ever after.

Fate however had a skewed sense of humor. The deeper Grace delves into Beau’s world, the further she wanders from the safety of her own. Plagued by the spirit of a sadistic serial killer long dead, Grace must harness what power she can to defeat him and stay alive. Awakening family secrets that Grace could never have imagined to be true begs the question: Had she been surrounded by magic longer than she had thought?

How far into a world plagued by evil would you go to save the soul of the one you love?

Billie Jade Kermack is an author who lives in London with her family and their crazy dog Gus. As well as being an author Billie Jade is a makeup & SFX artist for TV and film and runs her doll company SIDS DOLL EMPORIUM. She is currently working on a contemporary romance series & has a completed paranormal romance series already published.

https://linktr.ee/billiejadekermack

Review

How to Date a Fury (Syn City Shifters Book 1) by Luna Joya – My Review

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Title: How to Date a Fury (Syn City Shifters Book 1)

Author: Luna Joya

Release Date: September 22nd 2022

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Fantasy

Who knew dying would be the easy part of my day?

It all started the night Chase, my mountain lion shifter ex, reappeared. We’d had a whole good girl/bad boy romance going until he abandoned me a decade ago. I’d gone to Syn City for a little fun before being trapped in my hometown forever.

Then I was murdered by a maniac and my night really fell apart.

But somehow, Chase managed to strike a deal on a blood oath and bring me back as a Fury. He wants a second chance at romance, claiming we’re fated mates.

Now, I have to deal with the guy I thought I’d never see again, find and punish my murderer, and participate in a giant supernatural roller derby (long story)—all while trying to earn my wings.

And if I fail? I’ll end up dead. Again…only this time, it’ll be permanent.

All I can say is that it’s a good thing hell hath no fury like, well, an actual Fury.

How to Date a Fury, the first book in the Syn City Shifters Series, is a dark, sexy, paranormal romance featuring a reluctant Fury and the shifter who broke her heart but wants a shot at mending it. Happily ever after (and plenty of snarky fun) guaranteed. Perfect for fans of Linsey Hall, Jaymin Eve, and Amelia Hutchins.

Luna Joya is coming in hot with a brand new series!

How to Date a Fury exceeded all my expectations! A fantastic engaging story with some pretty unique characters. What’s a Luna Joya story without some heat? She definitely brought that and more!

A wonderful start to a series. I look forward to reading more! If you like fantasy romance with some heat, look no further. Go ahead and binge read this book! You deserve it. I give this 5 stars.

Author Spotlight · Coming Soon · Interview with an Author · Pre-Order

Interview with an Author featuring S.A. Mackenzie

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is S.A. Mackenzie! Her upcoming release, Possessing Greed: A Sons of Satan Novel releases September 13th 2022.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

 I am an avid video game player and reader. I spend most of my time inside, hiding away from the world because it’s my happy place. My son is my favourite person in the world next to my husband and I would spend all of my time with them if I could. My favourite activity with friends is playing board and card games. I love to laugh, I cry way too easily, and I’m very apologetically me (it’s the Canadian in me, we apologize for everything!)

Have you always wanted to be a writer?

No, actually. I’ve always been an avid reader, but sitting down and writing out stories was never something that interested me until I had my son. After my son was born, I was desperate to find a purpose for me, especially as a stay at home mom. For almost a year, I spent so much time daydreaming while idly rocking my baby and those daydreams turned into full stories in my head. So, I just picked up my laptop and started writing one day. I’ve never looked back since then.

What time of the day do you usually write?

I fit it in when I can! As the needs of my child change, so does my writing schedule. Right now, it’s mostly the morning and early afternoon, though I do write in the evenings when I have a deadline coming up.

How much ‘world building’ takes place before you start writing?

I’m a pantser for the most part. From the time an idea sprouts, I normally do a lot of vague large world building. Once writing actually starts, I try to have a basic outline of point a to point b, but I give my characters and creativity the reigns. Sometimes we get off track, but it all comes together in the end. The journey is a lot of fun when all you have is the destination in mind. 

Which of your books were the most enjoyable to write?

Hmm, that’s a hard one. The most enjoyable was probably the one releasing mid-September, Possessing Greed. It’s a shared world so the world building was so much fun and then the main character was an absolute blast to give the reins to.

What gave you that final push to press publish on your first book?

My husband and my alpha reader team. Both my husband and those beautiful women are my rock. They’ve given me the drive, confidence, and support to publish my first and every other book since. 

Do you hear from your readers much? What do they say?

 I do! It’s normally around a release that I hear from them the most. It’s always the sweetest compliments and encouragement from all of them. I’m a very awkward person, but hearing from them puts a smile on my face every time. 

Favorite book when you were a kid?

A kid kid? Probably the Ashley and Mary Kate Olsen mystery books. As a teen it would have been Just Listen by Sarah Dessen.

If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Chaotic, clumsy, silly.

What advice would you give to other authors?

Don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s, it will never look the same. You need to add in time for yourself and work within your limits or you’ll hit your burn out and after that it can be hard to find your love for writing again.

What is the one thing you want people to know about you and your books?

Each one is a part of me, yet none of them are the same. Some are the darker parts that I mostly keep hidden, others are the sweet, surface level stuff I show the world. The dark and light, the sweet and the sad, these books tell a story of me and who I was, who I am, and who I want to be.

 

Thank you S.A. Mackenzie for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her upcoming release, Possessing Greed today!

~Synopsis~

Nothing in this world is free. The sooner you realize that, the better.

As a woman in a man’s world, I have to work twice as hard to bring home half as much as my male counterparts. Time is money, and apparently having tits makes my time worth less.

Being a woman doesn’t stop me from out performing and destroying them all as the top corporate lawyer in my city. I’ve worked my ass off to be the best, so I can afford every luxury my heart desires. Diamonds? Check. Emeralds? Check. The sweet smell of a new leather purse dripping in 24-karat gold? Drool, and double check!

That is until a gorgeous man in a stunning suit rips it all away from me with a one-way ticket to Hell. As in, actual Hell. And that one-way ticket? A knife through my heart.

This demon is going to regret making me the Queen of Greed. Possessing Greed may have been my greatest sin, but it’s also going to be my strongest asset in the sparkling, frozen tundra of Hell’s first Circle.

Possessing Greed is a novel in the multi-author shared world, Sons of Satan. Be sure to read all seven books for a hellish good time! This book is for audiences 18 and over due to mature language and content. Possessing Greed is a reverse harem romantic stand-alone with an HEA.

S.A. Mackenzie is a Canadian why choose author that writes everything from contemporary to paranormal romance. S.A. loves all things spicy, from food to books. She spends her days chasing around her child as a stay at home mom and writing. Her evenings are spent with her big, bearded husband watching movies and playing video games.

Author Links: https://linktr.ee/samackenzieauthor

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author · New Release

Interview with an Author featuring Evelyn Shine

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Evelyn Shine! Her newest release, Dancing with the Moon: Vargree Shifters Book One released on March 23rd 2022.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m an author of fantasy romance writing under the pen name Evelyn Shine and I work as a private chef. When I’m not writing or cooking, I keep company with my three crazy Australian cattle dogs and my indulgent husband.

How long have you been writing?

I started writing in fall 2019 after three months of insomnia. It began with fanfic to entertain my brain, then moved on to original works in winter 2020. A year later I had a dozen 80k word first drafts written, and at the urging of my bestie, I picked a few to polish up for publication. The other drafts are waiting patiently for rewrites.

Do you have a writing quirk or ritual?

My brain never stops. The plotlines to at least six new books are always percolating away. My ideas kick me awake around 4am every day. I make my cup of tea and curl up on the couch with my laptop to write for a few hours–or all day–depending on my schedule. On nice days, I sit outside in my hammock with my dogs to write. I’m very focused, but my thoughts are so loud when I’m working that I need absolute silence to write.

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

Everywhere really. I’ve lived a really full life, so some of it is from experience. A great cover or a piece of art will spin an entire story in my head. An old Rumi poem I saw on Tumblr inspired Dancing With the Moon. The entire story downloaded into my brain and I started writing. That poem is at the beginning of the book.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special?

I’m attached to all my characters so it’s hard to pick just one. I love really strong but flawed FMCs. Kiara is the star of Dancing with the Moon and was so fun to write. She struggles with her addiction to the venom in a vampire’s bite but still tries to hold her life together and be independent. I’m a big fan of the heroine rescuing herself, so women fighting to come out on top will always have a place in my heart.

How do you deal with emotional impact of a book (on yourself) as you are writing the story?

I love the highs and lows of writing a new story. It unfolds like a movie in my head and I try to type fast enough to keep up. My housekeeping and other mundane tasks wait until I hit the editing phase because everything else just gets forgotten. My wonderful husband is accustomed to this intensity, and usually makes sure I remember to do things like eat. He claims coffee is not a meal. He’s wrong, but I still love him.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

Genre related covers have been my kryptonite and I’ve found the process frustrating. I’ve been reading for decades and have literally never picked a book for its cover. Usually when picking out a book, I’d open it to a random page and start reading. If I liked the writing style, I bought it. I had a rocky start with my first covers, but after swapping them, the series has done better.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

The overall story is already in my head, so each book takes the reader a step closer to the conclusion and reveals a little more of the overall plot. I never actually get “writer’s block” but if I get hung up on something I will go to the beginning of the story and start editing. Usually something will trigger a thought and I can move on again.

Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with me?

I just finished a “romancing the fairy tale villain” novella for an anthology that was super fun to write. I have a sensual retelling of the goddess Inanna that I’m working on for an anthology next spring.

My current big pet project is an epic fantasy why choose series. I’m 140k words into what will be a 4 or 5 books. The main character Skadi shows up in book 2 and 3 of my Dawnchild Series as the Queen of the Vargree wolf shifters. She appears again as a side character in book 1 and 2 of my Vargree series. She’s this fabulous archetypal badass queen with five mates. How could I not give her the rags to riches origin story she deserves? Currently, I plan to write the complete series then release a book every three months. With all the time it takes for beta reading, editing, and covers, I’m probably looking at a summer 2023 release for book 1.

What advice would you give to other authors?

Lift each other up and be kind. Everyone is made of stories and will tell theirs in their own way and time.

What is the one thing you want people to know about you and your books?

I still don’t sleep much and I probably drink more coffee than I should. It’s an endless loop.

My worlds are rich and all the characters intertwine, so there are cameos and Easter eggs in every book for stories I have yet to publish. I love leaving little presents that someone can come back later to read and discover.

 

Thank you Evelyn Shine for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her newest release,  Dancing with the Moon today!


~Synopsis~

A singular moment could change centuries of hatred.

I can’t stop thinking about her. Kiara saved my life by giving me her blood. It tasted like every fond memory I’ve ever had. And now, no matter how much I’ve tried to stay away, I’m drawn even closer. As if all I’ve ever needed is her.

But she’s a Vargree. The wolf-shifters and my kind have been at war for centuries and my hands are stained with the blood of her people.

I should let her go. Especially now that she’s found a prospective mate with her pack. But seeing her with him only makes me strive to win her over, to show her that singular moment wasn’t enough for me.

Can my love for her end the wars between our kind?

Dancing with the Moon is an epic fantasy romance about family ties, forbidden love, and the secrets that could shatter them. It’s a spin-off novel from the Dawnchild series, but can be read as a stand-alone.

Evelyn Shine is the author of fantasy romance books for anyone that enjoys steamy myths and fantastical species mixed with their adventure filled love. No matter what stories she’s writing—vampires or shifters—they all share a common thread of love, heart, and action. When she isn’t writing, Evelyn enjoys playing with her three crazy Australian cattle dogs, riding her Vespa through the countryside, or spending time with her indulgent spouse.

Website: www.evelynshine.com
Insta: @evelynshineauthor
TikTok: @evelynshine_author
FB fan group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/419458819756653
New Release · Review

Wicked Crown (The Wicked Book 1) by Luna Joya – My Review

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Title: Wicked Crown (The Wicked Book 1)

Author: Luna Joya

Release Date: July 5th 2022

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy


She’s not who-or what-she appears to be. Neither is he.

Supermodel Vori would be happy to stay in the human world, blissfully ignoring her true nature. But no. The blood vow she once made requires her to return to the Goblin Court. And since going alone would mean consenting to an arranged marriage, she needs a fake husband. Someone no one would miss if there was an unfortunate…accident. Vori knows the perfect villain for the job.

Witch Perry used to be a hotshot lawyer. But that was before he made all the wrong choices, wound up in league with a demon, and was left to rot in prison. Now, he has a second chance. He can finally earn his redemption. Too bad his last hope is the woman he ghosted two years ago.

It’s not long before Vori and Perry realize they aren’t as different as they thought-and that the line between enemies and lovers can be razor thin. But if they want their happily ever after, they’ll first have to stop a supernatural killer and survive a royal smackdown. Should be easy for a goblin princess and her dashing antihero, right?

If only.

Wicked Crown is a fierce alluring read that will leave you wanting more!

Ever since I was introduced to Vori, I wanted to know more about her. She intrigued me from that first intro and I was thrilled she got her very own book! Can we take a moment to admire that fire cover?

Right away, I was pulled into the book. This story was everything I wanted. Action, intrigue, steam, and most of all, Vori’s story. I was already invested because I’m a huge fan and follower of The Legacy Series. Vori is much more that what she portrays herself to be.

I can’t recommend this book enough! If you love paranormal romance with steam and action, this book is for you. Skip adding this to your TBR and one click it today! I give this 5 stars.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*