Heart of Vesuvius - Review and *$25 Giveaway*

Once again I'm delighted to welcome Sky Purington to my blog again, with her Time-travel/romance 'Heart of Vesuvius'.  I've just read this and my review is below, after the excerpt.  

Heart of Vesuvius

Forsaken Brethren Series- Book Two

Sky Purington

Genre:  Time-travel/vampire/paranormal

Date of Publication:  March 29, 2013

Number of pages:  71

Word Count: 35 K

Cover Artist:  Tamra Westberry

Amazon

Book Description:

PURCHASE ON AMAZON

Alexandria has no choice. She must flee to the last place she wants to. Straight into the arms of a vampire she was determined to forget.

Salvator finds this a clever fix to obtaining the one woman he has always desired, Alexandria.

Together, they must find a way to evade her powerful enemy, Salvator's brother Luciano. On the run, they struggle to understand one another. Denied passion ignites. Blood is spilled. Within the heart of Vesuvius, anything is possible.

When ancient Italy pulls them back in time, dark secrets are revealed.

All can be conquered. But will it be? Can wrongs be made right? History is the locked door. Forgiveness is the key. Time will tell if ancient love can once again flourish. 

Short Excerpt

Salvator smiled, white teeth gleaming through the darkness, midnight hair brushing his shoulders. "Now that is where you are wrong." When he stood, she instinctually shifted back against the headboard. "Clothing never suited you."

Her nudity suddenly felt underused and sumptuous. The thin sheet and velvet blanket like a caress of pure perfection. As he slowly approached her thighs spread, welcoming. She slammed them shut and refused to scowl.

Salvator dripped seduction. He walked it, breathed it, spoke it.

She knew better.

"Shhh," he whispered. His finger trailed up the bedspread, skimmed along her thigh, hip, waist, until it left and returned to his side. "I will not seduce you…yet."

For a split second, Alex almost said, "Why not?" She caught her tongue. Ancient vampires were very good at what they did and Salvator ranked amongst one of the eldest. But she had grown. After all, she had been made eight hundred years ago. Though not one of the more powerful of her breed she'd paid attention and learned.

"I demand respect. I'm old enough to request such," she said. His olive-skinned hand clenched and pulled tighter against his side. She met him eye to eye, did not shy away from his abnormally pale bluish-gray gaze as she had in the past. He was to fear, respect and worship. Tall and broad shouldered, inherently smooth, he owned a room when he entered it.

He had owned her once, almost.

Not now.

With a flick of his wrist, she felt the weight of clothing comfort her skin. Salvator hadn't lent glamour to it to purposely arouse her. He had honored the way of the vampires. In many ways she was shocked he had lent his aide to her at all. But he hadn't really. He had lent it to Gabriel, for purposes of his own. Though she would like to say Salvator was different than most vampires, he wasn't. There had to be a method to his madness.

She guessed vengeance.

Alex swung her legs over the edge of the bed and stood. This put the top of her head at his shoulders. "You could have dressed me in something more acceptable."

Shifting slightly, he cornered her between the bed and night table. "Consider yourself lucky you are dressed at all."

She eyed the flaming red, form fitting, silk gown minus undergarments and muttered, "Barely."

Lightning fast, his hands lay on both sides of her waist. His imposing frame was far too close, beautifully proportioned face bent. Long, thick black lashes framed his icy eyes.

"You sought my protection. Your insolence incites me." His hands squeezed. "To not grant you the respect you feel due you."

Did he still think her the quivering novice? She would not pay him an unwarranted price for his shelter. She'd not be his whore.

With all of her power, she shot one hand forward. He fell back a few inches. Alex waited calmly for the expected counterattack, for it would be swift without doubt. Instead of the wallop she deserved for attacking an elder she witnessed an oddity.

He smiled and said, "You've changed, uccellino. You are no longer a cowering beginner."

About the Author:

Sky is the best-selling author of seven novels and several novellas. A New Englander born and bred, Sky was raised hearing stories of folklore, myth and legend. When combined with a love for nature, romance and time-travel, elements from the stories of her youth found release in her books.

Interested in keeping up with Sky's latest news and releases? Visit Sky's Website, www.SkyPurington.com to download her free App on iTunes and Android.

Website- www.skypurington.com

A Writer’s Mind blog- www.skypuringtonwrites.blogspot.com

Twitter- www.twitter.com/skypurington

Facebook- www.facebook.com/skypurington

Pinterest- www.pinterest.com/skypurington

Playlist for Heart of Vesuvius- http://tny.gs/1054gh4

My Review

This is the second book in the 'Forsaken Brethren' series by Sky Purington,  begun  in 'Darkest Memory' . Both are perfect 'stand alone' reads, although I'll bet if you read one, you'll be desperate to read the other!

The story begins with action and builds to a thrilling climax. It's a fast and gripping read.  Although I have to be honest and say vamps are not usually my favourite beings in fiction, Salvator and Alex  are such charismatic characters I instantly related to them and wanted to know more about them. The two main characters from 'Darkest Memory', Calah, and Alex's brother, Gabriel, are worthy supporting characters in 'Heart of Vesuvius.'   The scenes from which the book takes its title, the destruction of Pompeii, are both powerful and moving and the hapless   Robert, a very minor character to start with, turned out to be far more interesting than he first appeared and I found myself rooting for him too.

The sexual tension between Salvator and Alex sizzles, even while they battle deadly danger in the form of Salvator's evil brother, Luciano.   

If you like a great romantic paranormal adventure, with sex that's sizzling without being too graphic, and mystery and excitement in abundance, I can thoroughly recommend 'Heart of Vesuvius' - a Five Star read!                                        

This is my honest opinion about this book and I although I received a free copy, I did not receive any monetary compensation for writing this review nor was I obligated to write a positive one.

http://bewitchingbooktours.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/now-on-tour-heart-of-vesuvius-by-sky.html

Sorry, the Rafflecopter code seems to have gone astray, click on the above link to enter there!

'STARQUEST'    'CHILDREN OF THE MIST'  (The sequel to Starquest)  Dancing With Fate      'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH

                  Also available on Kindle

No Such Thing As Immortality by Sarah Tranter - a review

I'm delighted to feature the debut novel by  fellow author and friend, and one of my crit partners, the lovely Sarah Tranter. 

I shared her excitement last year when her manuscript was accepted by 'Choc Lit' and when we met up at the Festival of Romance. We actually shared a room, although there was so much going on it was a bit like 'ships in the night' but it was great to meet up again and so thrilling to see this long awaited book actually in print.  (Although the official print release date wasn't until January this year.)

This is a book about vampires - but if the very idea sends shivers through your soul, don't worry.  This is a vampire story like no other, and although it's been compared to The Twilight Series (which I've never seen)  many people are saying it's much better - and I have to confess to being thoroughly besotted by the hero, Nathan Gray.  One of the most honorable, gentle and charismatic characters I have come across in a long time.

First of all I have to confess I am not a 'fan' of vampire romances. I've never quite been able to understand the attraction of a blood-sucking member of the 'undead'. However, Nate's words 'I will protect you until the day I die...forever.' were enough to make me curious to read this novel - and even if I hadn't known and admired the author, I would have still wanted to read it!

Nathanial Gray, ‘Nate',  may be a vampire, but he and his little family group have sworn off feeding on human blood and instead live off the blood of animals - and black pudding! If that last sounds a little humorous, there is a lot of humour in this story, as well as angst, passion, anger and deep sorrow. The incident where Rowan's parked car (with its safety features, 'modified' by Nate without her knowledge) is hit by a double decker bus with disastrous results - for the bus, had me laughing out loud! There were also times when I felt Nate’s passion and his pain and I could not help but empathise with him.

From the moment Nate accidentally rams into Rowan's car he is smitten by her, and his amazing and disturbing connection to her results in him feeling her emotions as well as his own. A vampire 'feels no emotion that is not his choice'.  So what is going on?

 It takes a while for Rowan to return his feelings and the path of their romance is far from easy, with a previous lover and a mysterious and sinister figure, Simeon Frey,  added to the mix and attempting to keep the two apart. Their relationship is also further complicated by the fact Nate longs to tell her what he is, but is afraid that if he does, he will lose her for ever. Rowan also has some secrets in her past, and her Aunt Hetty in particular causes  much speculation and concern to the vampires.  There is something distinctly unusual about her and  in addition, there is the question of the death of Rown’s parents ,  when she and her sister were children, which now appears to have been murder.

Nate has all the charm of Mr Darcy, but is more sensitive and vulnerable. The anguish and fear he feels when his beloved Rowan is in danger comes across the pages as both mental and physical. He is also a perfect gentleman with the type of courtesy that is unfortunately all too rare these days. I am an old fashioned romantic, and a male who opens doors, carries the heroine up the stairs to avoid further injury to her foot, (caused when she kicked his car in fury) and sends her white roses, certainly has the ability to melt my heart. Sarah Tranter has a fantastic ‘voice’ and the scenes were written so vividly I felt I was there, experiencing it all with Nathan, Rowan and the great cast of supporting characters. I love first person narrative and Ms Tranter manages to pull off the male POV very convincingly.

Both Nate and Rowan are very strong characters.  Nate, despite his gallantry has a fierce temper when provoked, especially if he feels Rowan is being threatened, and makes a formidable adversary.  Rowan is feisty and independent , but where Nate is concerned her softer side shows through.

The story is fast paced  and kept me turning the pages to find out what happened next, while at the same time I didn't want it to end. The climax is real edge-of-the seat stuff and although the ending was wonderfully satisfying, it left me with several questions, and yearning for more.  I can't wait for the next book in the series.
(Sarah also has another (unrelated novel) 'Romancing The Soul', due to be published by Choc Lit next year.)


I will protect you until the day I die … forever!
A vampire does not have to feel any emotion not of his choosing.  And Nathaniel Gray has spent two hundred years choosing not to feel.  But when he accidentally runs Rowan Locke off the road, he is inexplicably flooded with everything she’s feeling, and that’s rage, and lots of it.

He is consumed with the need to protect Rowan at all costs including from himself. To Nate, what is happening is unthinkable and is pretty much as unbelievable as the existence of faeries. 

But you see, ‘There is no such thing as …immortality.’

This is Nate’s story …



PURCHASE ON AMAZON
SARAH'S BLOG
SARAH'S WEBSITE
CHOC LIT SITE




















         'STARQUEST'    'CHILDREN OF THE MIST'  (The sequel to Starquest)  Dancing With Fate      'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH

                  Also available on Kindle

No Such Thing as Immortality - Released today!

I love to share my friends' successes and I'm very excited for one of my UK  friends, Sarah Tranter.  Her debut novel 'No Such Thing As Immortality' is released today by'Choc Lit'  at Amazon (UK) and Amazon USA

The release date for the paperback is 7th January but it's available for your Kindle or E-reader TODAY!

Pre-order Print version from CHOC LIT

I've just read the wonderful reviews for this book on the website above - and can't wait to read the book myself!

BLURB:

I will protect you until the day I die … forever A vampire does not have to feel any emotion not of his choosing. And Nathaniel Gray has spent two hundred years choosing not to feel. But when he accidentally runs Rowan Locke off the road, he is inexplicably flooded with everything she's feeling, and that's rage, and lots of it. He is consumed with the need to protect Rowan at all costs including from himself. To Nate what is happening is unthinkable and is pretty much as unbelievable, as the existence of faeries. But you see, 'There is no such thing as …immortality.' This is Nate's story …

Congratulations Sarah, and I look forward to meeting up with you at the Festival of Romance, later today!

'STARQUEST'    'CHILDREN OF THE MIST'  (The sequel to Starquest)  Dancing With Fate      'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH

                  Also available on Kindle

Celebrate Sky Purington's latest release 'Heart Of Vesuvius'

I'm  so thrilled and happy to welcome  Sky Purington to my blog again.  It's always a pleasure to have you as my guest Sky. Step out of the transporter, dear friend, and have a glass of something reviving before telling us all about your latest book and how you've gone to the 'dark side' LOL ...

Over to you, Sky.

Hi Everyone! It’s always a pleasure visiting this blog. Thanks for the invitation, Lyn!

For those of you unfamiliar with my work, I write a cross genre of fantasy and paranormal romance. From Scottish Highlanders to the ancient Druids, I adore writing about anything even remotely Celtic.

For the past year or so I’ve gone in a slightly different direction. How so? I’ve decided to write about vampires! 

From medieval England to ancient Pompeii, these back to back tales will take you on a perilous journey through not only history but the vampire psyche. With sizzling hot romance and unique characters, I hope you enjoy reading these edge-of-your-seat tales as much as I enjoyed writing them.

While my last visit focused on my first vampire story, Darkest Memory, this visit I’ll be chatting about its sequel, Heart of Vesuvius. The initial inspiration for this story developed when I finished writing Darkest Memory. It occurred to me that a basic thread throughout the story was the fact that I had developed a brother and sister vampire duo (Gabriel and Alexandria) and while I’d just told Gabriel’s romantic tale…didn’t Alexandria deserve to have her tale told as well? So Heart of Vesuvius had its heroine. Next, I needed a hero. Darkest Memory had all but handed me him on a platter based on its ending. Salvator would be the vampire both brother and sister would flee to. After all, they needed to avoid the ultimate unforeseeable future nemesis from Darkest Memory, Salvator’s brother, Luciano.

 

So why the title Heart of Vesuvius? A program called Sex in Ancient Pompeii aired on the History Channel. While naturally the ‘sex’ part caught my attention, it was more what I learned about Pompeii after the fact. This city made ‘frozen in time’ by the eruption of MT. Vesuvius had my creative juices flowing. My story now had a destination. 

I won’t give away any more for now. Keep an eye on the Appearances (http://www.skypurington.com/main.html) section of my website as I’ll be visiting a few more blogs soon and sharing more about this story. Also, be sure to mark your calendar now. My Celts and More Blog Event launches at my blog, A Writer’s Mind (http://www.skypuringtonwrites.blogspot.com) Monday, January 31st!

As an added bonus, I’d like to offer a giveaway while visiting Lyn’s Blog. One lucky commenter will win an Ecopy of Heart of Vesuvius.

Cheers!

~Sky

HEART OF VESUVIUS

BLURB:

Two vampires, one goal. 

Alexandria has no choice. She must flee to the last place she wants to. Straight into the arms of a vampire she was determined to forget. 

Salvator, ancient vampire, finds this a clever fix to obtaining the one vampire who he has always desired, Alexandria. 

Together, they must find a way to evade her powerful enemy, Salvator's brother Luciano. On the run, they struggle to understand one another. Deep, dark secrets are revealed. Denied passion ignites. Blood is spilled. Within the Heart of Vesuvius, anything is possible. All can be conquered. But will it be? Can wrongs be made right? History is the locked door. Forgiveness is the key. Time will tell if ancient love can once again flourish. 

EXCERPT:

“We are within the Apennine Mountains.”

She blinked. Impossible. There’s no way she had heard him correctly. “So you’ve taken it upon yourself to rename the White Mountains in your own little world. Typical. I doubt the state of New Hampshire will go for it.”

He sat on a slick rock across from her and crossed his long legs out in front of him. “We are not in the White Mountains. Do you count deafness amongst your faults?”

“Had it applied to me, I do not consider deafness a fault.” Allowing his insults to bother her would serve no purpose, low-life of a rickety old vampire…sexy firm make-you-want-to-drool body aside. “Even the most powerful of our kind could not travel such a great distance in so short a time.”

“È lì che si sono sbagliati, so very wrong, even the weakest of vampires could travel such a distance within a minute, mio caro.

Alex almost laughed but stopped. He was dead serious. Closing her eyes she focused, moved her conscience upward. Before she could reach the ceiling, something blocked her.

No. Salvator’s voice entered her mind. Come back. It is unsafe.

Before she could defy him, she felt herself sucked back into her body. Alex opened her eyes. Salvator hadn’t moved. It took a truly powerful vampire to make another of their kind move back into their body against their desire. He told the truth. A strange sort of awareness crawled over her. It felt like fear and terror mixed with an odd acceptance. How was this possible?

“Why the mountains of Italy? How so quickly?” she whispered.

The sheer power drifting in wisps around him pulsed and shifted. “Now Luciano will have to divide his attention between myself and your brother. As I knew would be the case, he is more furious with me…and strangely enough, as an added boon in our favor, you have sparked some interest in him.”

REVIEWS:

"...this haunting story about loves lost and found is certainly worth the read. The ominous climax of the story, where we learn the origin of the feud between the two brothers and the truth that lies at the heart of Salvatore's relationship with Alexandria, was beautifully, heartbreakingly written."

~The Romance Reviews

“ ...a great read for all you romantics and vampire lovers!”
~Nocturne Romance Reads

Sky - I have to confess I've only just started to read 'Darkest Memory' (You should see the size of my TBR pile!) but I love it.  I wasn't sure if I would, because I don't normally read 'vamp' stories,despite them being so 'hot'  - but who couldn't be captivated by Gabriel!)  Can't wait to read 'Heart of Vesuvius now!' Thank you so much for gracing my blog today and telling us all about your work, and for your prize of a download - don't forget folks, all you have to do is comment to win a copy of what promisers to be a most remarkable story.

Watch the trailer for 'Heart of Vesuvius' below 

Interview with Braden Knight of Moon Watchers, Second in the Hunter Series by Sandra Cox.

You may remember Sandra Cox  visited my blog to talk about her book 'Sundial' on All Hallows Eve last year? Well I'm thrilled to say she's back again, with a very special guest, to celebrate the release of her latest novel 'Moonwatchers'.  (And isn't that just the most gorgeous and evocatrive cover?) With us today is the mysterious and sexy Braden Knight. Lyn turns to Braden. 

“Thank you so much for agreeing to this interview, Braden. I know how you value your privacy.”


Braden: “How could I refuse a request from such a charming woman?” He brings her hand to his lips and kisses it.

 Lyn blushes and giggles. “Oh my. I can see how you gained your reputation.” She fans herself.

Braden: “And what reputation might that be?”

HL: “Jolene Sayer, the werewolf hunter, refers to you as hunkalicious.”

Braden: “Does she now?”

HL: “Oh yes. By the way, where did you meet Ms. Sayer?”

Braden: “She was visiting her cousin Zoe Tempest on Vampire Island.”
 
HL: “Vampire Island? Where is it? Is it as scary as it sounds?” She shivers dramatically.


Braden: “It’s in the Bahamas and safe enough now, but not too long ago it was a place that I wouldn’t have recommended for humans.”

HL: “Humans? What an odd response.  There are rumors floating around that you’re a vampire. Is that true?” She backs up. The mike in her hand shakes.


Braden: “What do you think?”

Lyn glances at her watch. “Oh look our times up. Thank you so much for joining us today.”  She makes a slitting motion across her throat for the camera to stop rolling and hurries away.


Braden grins at her retreating figure. “Humans.” He shrugs and leaves the studio.

Blurb from Moon Watchers:

Some people think being a Were hunter is weird. For me it’s perfectly normal. What I see as odd is my attraction to the hunkalicious Braden Knight. Why? I think he’s a vampire.

Excerpt:

As the full moon rose above the leafless black trees, an eerie howl shattered the night. I rubbed the goose bumps on my arms and felt the hair on my neck rise. Moonlight fell in shadowy patches across the living room floor of the cottage I’d inherited on my eighteenth birthday, last week to be exact.

Dad’s in Europe, tracking down a tip he got on a Weres pack. That’s how I’ve come to be alone deep in the forests of Minnesota where there is considerable werewolf activity.

I’ve hunted Weres since I was thirteen, but this is the first time I’ve been completely on my own.

A branched tapped against the window. I jumped then shook my head at my nerves. “Geez.” When my heart settled down, I leaned forward and peered out the window. My hand tightened on the long silver knife at my waist. Nothing moved outside. “Get a grip, Jo.”

I took a deep breath and started toward the kitchen. The tapping came again, this time louder. I whirled. It wasn’t the window, it was the door. Someone or something was on the other side.

My legs stiff, my knees locked, I took one slow step after another. My hand wrapped around the knife and tightened till my knuckles turned white. Who could be out at--I glanced at my watch-- ten at night in an isolated corner of the north. I crept through the living room into the tiny foyer.

I took a deep breath and cleared my mind, the way dad taught me. Nerves left me. The cold logic of the warrior set in. Making sure the chain was in place, I cracked the door, ready to slice anything too close to the opening.

“Hello, Jolene.”

My hand fell to my side. I gaped in astonishment. I removed the latch and stood in the doorway, one hand on the frame, stunned.

“Braden! What are you doing here?” I’d met Braden Knight briefly when I visited my distant cousin Zoe Tempest, vampire hunter extraordinaire. Perhaps you’ve heard of her. If not, I guarantee you will. She’s come to hunting the undead rather late in life--seventeen--but she’s taken to it like a pro, swift, vigilant and tough.

But I’m stalling. I’d felt an attraction for Braden Knight from the first moment I saw his bronzed pecs and thick chestnut hair.


 “Zoe told me your dad was in Europe and left you alone in the middle of Nowhere Minnesota. May I come in?”

Damn good question. Zoe had confided her fears to me that the handsome man standing in front of me was of the undead variety. But whether of the pranic--that lives on other people’s energy and aren’t truly undead--or the blood--that survives on warm, red heart fluid--she wasn’t sure.

Zoe’s not even sure he’s a vampire. All she knows is that he has extraordinary powers for a nineteen year old human.

Suddenly, the decision was made for me. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a huge black wolf rush forward, its lips drawn back in a snarl, its fangs gleaming, its eyes blood red.

Without thought, I jerked Braden inside and slammed the door.

*Shiver*  That's a really chilling excerpt, Sandra, I really want to read this book!  Now she's invited a vampire inot her home - hasn't she? Oh, I need to find out more!

Thank you so much for being my guest today - oh and Braden too, of course.  Gosh, what a hunk! He gives me the shivers - but not in the way hunky men usually do, well yes he does, but he makes me a little nervous as well!  Congratulations on your release, Sandra, may it sell many, many copies!

Oh, before you leave, I understand you have a contest running.  Here are the details

CONTEST:

To celebrate the release of Moon Watchers, I’ll be running a contest from Jan 15 and Feb 2. The winner will be announced Feb 5.  To enter just leave a comment at www.downtownya.blogspot.com and mention Moon Watchers and  Hywela Lyn.

What do you win?

An autographed copy of Moon Watchers

A Starbucks gift certificate

And a fun necklace that has a cross to protect against creatures of the night, a blood drop stone to remind shape-shifters you are protected and a star since our winner will be the star of the contest

Multi-published author Sandra Cox lives with her husband, five cats, a dog and an occasional foster cat in sunny North Carolina. She’s a vegetarian and has two grown children.


You can find her on the web at:

www.sandracox1.com

downtownya.blogspot.com
sandracox.blogspot.com

National Breast Cancer Awareness month

Breast cancer is something that we all need to be aware of, whether it affects us directly or not. Nearly everyone has a relative or friend who has had to battle this disease and I'm pleased to be able to welcome

Lilly Gayle to my blog today, to present some of the facts.  Over to you, Lilly.

October isn’t just about Halloween and things that go bump in the night. It’s the month we celebrate survivors in the States. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

As a registered radiologic technologist with a bachelor’s degree and mammography certification- BSRT(R)(M), I think Pink is the color for October. During this time of the month, we remind women of the FDA and American Cancer Society recommendations for women concerning their breast health:

• Women 20-39 should have a physical examination of the breast (CBE or clinical breast exam) at least every three years, performed by health care professional such as a physician, physician assistant, nurse or nurse practitioner. CBE may often be received in the same appointment as a Pap smear. Women 20-39 should also perform monthly BSE.(Breast Self Exam)
• Women age 35 should have their baseline mammogram.
• Women 40 and older should have a physical examination of the breast (CBE or clinical breast exam) every year, performed by a health care professional, such as a physician, physician assistant, nurse or nurse practitioner. CBE can often be performed in the same visit as a mammogram. Monthly BSE should also be performed.
• Women 40 years of age should receive a screening mammogram every year. The National Cancer Institute recommends mammography every one to two years for women between 40-50 years of age. Beginning at age 50, screening mammography should be performed every year.

I’m also a big supporter of Breast Cancer Awareness because I’m a survivor.

In June 2007, I went to the doctor to get a refill on my migraine medications. While there, I told my doctor it had been 18 months since my last mammogram. My clinical breast exam (CBE) was normal as was my breast self exam. (BSE) I was only 47 and I didn’t have a lump, pain, or any risk factors.

So, what are risk factors for breast cancer?

Being female
A first degree relative diagnosed with breast cancer: (mother, sister, daughter, maternal grandmother, maternal aunts)
Early menarche--younger than 12
Older age at menopause--over 55
Years of artificial hormones after a hysterectomy
Nulliparity (Never having children
Not breast feeding
Late first time pregnancy

You can take a breast cancer risk assessment quiz at: http://www.cancer.gov/bcrisktool

But in June 2007, I wasn’t at risk. And on June 14, 2007, after I finished with my last patient for the day, I got one of the other mammographers to take my mammogram. We didn’t have digital mammography then and had to wait for the films to fall from the processor. And the moment I saw that spiculated lesion lying next to my chest wall in my right breast, my heart dropped. I’d seen enough radiographic evidence of cancer in my career to know. But it was the Friday before Father’s Day weekend and the radiologist had already left for the day. So, I had to wait until the following Monday for the doctor to read my films.

I didn’t mention my fears to my family. We even hosted a Father’s Day cookout by the pool. And on Monday morning, the radiologist looked at my films and confirmed my suspicions. It didn’t look good. He ordered a diagnostic mammogram, which consists of additional imaging and sometimes an ultrasound.

I told my husband and daughters I needed additional films but played it down for their sakes. My youngest daughter had just graduated from high school and my oldest daughter was married and living in Germany. I didn’t want anyone to worry.

On June 21, 2007 I had the diagnostic mammogram. The radiologist recommended a biopsy and broke the news that he thought it was probably cancer. By this point, I was expecting the news. So, I didn’t break down. There was still a chance the biopsy would come back negative. At least, that’s what I told my family. But in my heart of hearts, I knew. My youngest daughter got upset. Then my husband got upset. So, we made a pact then and there that only one of us could get upset at a time, no matter the results. If one person lost it or started to cry, it was up to the other two to talk them down.

We kept that pact, even after my diagnosis was confirmed.
On June 28, 2007, I had a biopsy. And on July 3, 2007, I got the news. I had breast cancer. Both DCIS-ductal carcinoma insitu and an invasive carcinoma. I broke down briefly at work and again when I told my mom and husband. But then we went to the beach for the July 4th weekend and had fun. But when I came home, my life changed.

On July 13th, I had a lumpectomy. The doctor removed a larger portion of my breast and implanted a port-a-cath into my chest wall. The port-a-cath would be needed when I started chemotherapy. I also had a lymph node biopsy. The sentinel node and three other nodes were removed from under my right arm. None showed any sign of cancer, thank God. I was still in Stage 1.

I had my first round of chemo on August 1 and started loosing my hair on August 13. I took chemo for eight weeks and was completely bald by Halloween. After chemo, I had to have an MRI to see if the chemo worked or if I would need to have a mastectomy. The MRI was negative. I started daily radiation treatments October 12 and finished before Christmas. In December 2007, I was declared cancer free.

But I continued seeing both my radiation oncologist and my medical oncologist until late 2008. I also had mammograms every six months instead of yearly until this year. I finally graduated to yearly screenings.

I still have to visit my medical oncologist every 3-4 months but I no longer see a radiation oncologist. I also had my port removed in December 2007 because if the cancer does come back I can’t have chemo again. I’ll have to have a mastectomy and radiation. I’m hoping that never happens.

I’m also hoping all women over 40 will do monthly breast self exams (BSE) and have yearly mammograms regardless of family history.

For now, life is good. I’ve been to Germany to visit my oldest daughter and my youngest daughter completed the radiography program and is now attending radiation therapy school in Chapel Hill, NC. And in May of this year, my first book, Out of the Darkness, was published by The Wild Rose Press. http://www.thewildrosepress.com/out-of-the-darkness-p-4039.html

No, it’s not a story about my battle with breast cancer. It’s a paranormal, vampire romance.

Out of the Darkness

Here research could cure his dark hunger if a covert government agent doesn't get to her first.

 PURCHASE LINK

Vincent Maxwell is a vampire with a conscience seeking a cure to his dark hunger. But when a scientist looking to create vampire soldiers captures and kills a fellow vampire, Vincent seeks out Dr. Megan Harper, another research scientist who discovered a link between a genetic light sensitivity disorder and vampirism. Dr. Harper could hold a key to a cure and the answers to Gerard’s death. But getting close to the beautiful scientist could endanger both their lives.

When researcher Dr. Megan Harper meets Vincent Maxwell, she believes he suffers from xeroderma pigmentosum, the genetic disease that killed her sister. Sensing a deep loneliness within the handsome man, Megan offers friendship and access to her research files hoping Vincent will offer her a position in his company. But they soon become more than friendsand Megan learns the horrifying truth. She's entered the dark and unseen world of vampires and Vincent is her only hope of survival.

www.lillygayle.com
www.lillygayleromance.blogspot.com

Roasting and Toasting Barbara Edwards

You're invited...

to a midnight graveyard party.  Yes, you read that right, nothing's ever humdrum or ordinary at the Author Roast and Toast!  Join hostesses, Sharon Donovan, Mary Ricksen and myself.  Come and see Oliver, Sharon's hunky butler, dressed in his vampire costume.  Let's Roast and Toast Barbara Edwards  today, and  find out more about her great paranormal thriller 'Ancient Awakening'.
http://authorroastandtoast.blogspot.com/ 

Darkest Memory - Sky Purington - Released today!

Please welcome today's special guest, my 'muse sister, and fellow Wild Rose Press author, SKY PURINGTON.

Sky's story in the 'Song Of The Muses' anthology from the Wild Rose Press, was 'Highland Muse', a fantastic tale combining Greek Mythology and Scottish History. It was such a joy and a priviledge to work on this series with you Sky, and I loved your story 'Highland Muse' and your bonnie highlander hero.

'The King's Druidess' set the scene for her wonderful Mac'Lomain series, starting with 'Fate's Monolith, followed by 'Destiny's Denial, and the third in the series 'Sylvan Mist' which will be released on the 18th June. Make a note in your diaries, we'll be roasting and toasting her at 'The Author Roast and Toast Blog' on that day, and it's going to be a real fun event!

Today though, sees the release of her latest story 'Darkest Memory' and I'm thrilled to have her as my guest here, to help her celebrate. (There'll be more about this latest story later.)

OK, Sky, make yourself comfortable, have a mug of hot chocolate - or coffee if you prefer - and tell the readers a bit more about yourself.

Sky and Lyn exchange hugs then Sky pulls up a chair, waves at the audience and takes a sip from her mug before replying:

Born in Massachusetts, raised in New Hampshire, I enjoyed a very interesting childhood. I was lucky enough to be the child of a TWA employee! This meant I was able to travel quite a bit. While the beautiful landscape of New Hampshire inspired my love of nature─ traveling inspired my interest in people, culture and diversity. Through it all, my obsession for words grew. Eventually, I decided to self-educate through writing correspondence courses. Five years later, I started writing my first novel. Swing my website to learn more.

HL: We'll be sure to do that, Sky. I share your love of nature, landscape and people, as I'm sure a great many of your readers do too. Tell us - what do you do for fun when not writing?

SP: I love spending time with my four year old son. I realize I have very few years left that he’ll want to play with mom. For now, we like sledding together, going to the park and artsy crafty stuff. Like I said, my days are numbered…he is a boy after all!

In addition, I enjoy gardening. Without gloves is best. There’s nothing like the feel of the soil against my bare hands. Sounds silly, but true. It’s worth trying to fix my poor fingernails later.

Besides that…travel, travel and travel some more. Yep, my son had his first passport at 10 months old!

HL: Wow, lucky little boy! Sounds like you're certainly making the most of this lovely time with your young son. Now then, I'm itching to know more about 'Darkest Memory' and what you think readers will enjoy about it

SP: Secrets saturate this story. As the title implies, Darkest Memory revolves around some very intense and forgotten memories─ones that will change the course of a young woman’s fate. My heroine, Calah, is a cutthroat journalist. Gabriel is a vampire determined to protect her.

Without doubt, it’s a rollercoaster ride bringing these two together. So much happens. While deceit mingles with passion and revelations unfold, another female vampire is determined to destroy everything. Though the story takes place in present day Maine, through some very heartfelt and steamy scenes, the reader travels back to twelfth century London to visit a historically monumental night at Westminster Abby. It’s incredible!

What do I think readers will enjoy about it? The twists! I can’t seem to stop throwing the little buggers into my stories. The twists in Darkest Memory are cultivated to make your heart ache. There are bittersweet moments entwined with the ruthlessness vampires are known for. While I adore modern vampires, most have a history. And we all know I love history! If you enjoyed Anne Rice (Interview with the Vampire) or Bram Stoker (Dracula), this story touches on that particular flavor of storytelling with an updated push remnant of Charlaine Harris (Sookie Stackhouse Series- AKA- True Blood) and L.J. Smith (Vampire Diaries). I mean really, anyone writing about vampires and creating a romance around them has to have a certain appreciation for all that’s been written prior!

HL: Oooh, I do so love a story with twists and turns, and keeps me guessing. Now for the million dollar question - if someone were to play one of your characters in a movie, which character and what actor would it be and why?

SP: Oh, great question! One I haven’t given much thought to until now. Let me see. How about I focus on a man fit to play Gabriel? I’m going to spin the roulette wheel because this isn’t an easy decision. Leaning over, spinning the wheel. The ball slowly rolls by James Marsden. Wheel’s still spinning. Ball’s rolling by David Boreanaz. Wait! Sky cheats and leans over. Have to slow the spin. The ball lands on Mathew Bomer.

(It's a not very well known fact that Lyn keeps a roulette wheel on her blog for just such an occasion! *Grin*)

Phew, hard work! But seriously, he could be the one. You might know him from the TV series White Collar. He’s con-man Neal Caffrey. I know─odd choice for a vampire but look at him with those come-hither kissable lips and piercing but vulnerable eyes, he has definite sex appeal. Mathew plays a clever side-kick in the series with a vicious sense of humor but I’m thoroughly convinced he’s capable of any role because he’s such a super actor. Gabriel─Mathew─Gabriel…sighs, swoons…you get the gist!

HL: Ooh! I'm sighing and swooning with you, Sky. What a great looking guy! May I borrow him to play one of my characters when you've finished with him, LOL?

Lyn fans herself and tries to remember she's supposed to be interviewing Sky. After a moment, she continues:

Do you listen to music when you write and if so, what kind of music – or do you find it distracts you?

SP: Music only distracts me if I’m editing. When writing, I need music. It inspires. What I listen to totally depends on what I’m writing. When I wrote my Scottish series I listened to boat loads of Lorenna Mckenitt and bagpipe music. When I wrote Darkest Memory, it was all about Enigma. The darker edge to their music kept things in perspective.

HL: Hmm, that's interesting. I can totally relate to Enigma, there are times when you need that 'darker edge'! Do you have a support system? Do you have a writing community? What valuable lessons have you learned from them?

SP: Honestly, I believe less is more. While I appreciate the larger writing communities, I have limited time to interact with them as much as I’d like. I’ve found a solid critique team and a few really good friends in the writing community to be the best option for me. People who understand where I’ve come from and where I’m heading─those comfortable giving me honest advice as I give it to them as well. I have learned so much from my smaller group within the writing community, I wouldn’t know where to begin!

HL: I do agree, Sky, you're so right. Advice and honest critiques from one or two true and trusted friends is the certainly one of the best ways to hone and improve ones work. Let us into your secret - what is your favorite source of inspiration?

SP: My favorite source of inspiration will always be history. Yes, I’ll admit it─I’ve watched Antiques Road Show on occasion, been mesmerized by documentaries on the history channel and bought historical books no one else probably would have. I love understanding objects, places and people of the past. Why were things created? What makes a place stand out above all others? Why did historical figures do what they did? Right now I’m alert to anything out of Scotland, Ireland, England, Italy, Russia, France, Asia─ this list goes on at length. I love it all.

HL: I didn't realise you had 'The Antiques Road Show' in the States, Sky, that's so interesting. It's one of my favourite programmes and one of the few things I watch on TV these days. And I do so agree, places and people from the past are a wonderful source of inspiration. (I note you mention Ireland, England and Sootland - and I know you have a very soft spot for Scotland - but please folks, don't forget my homeland of Wales, *grin* it's teeming with legends and history!)


Well, sadly we've nearly come to the end of this chat, and we have to let you go to continue celebrating your special release day. It's been a true pleasure and honour to have you here Sky, thank you so much.

SP: I hope you enjoyed getting to know about me and my story. I wish I could have told you more about Darkest Memory but simply couldn’t risk giving too much away! Writing it was thrilling and yes, darker than what I’m used to, but I love a challenge. I welcome all feedback. Tell me what you liked. What you didn’t. Purchase Now!

HL: Before you leave us Sky, please, can we hve a blurb and excerpt?

SP: Happy to oblige. Here we go

BLURB:
Calah Arlington lands a career-making interview with billionaire club owner, Gabriel Knight. His dark looks and mysterious nature captivate her. However, looks can be deceiving. Now bizarre things are happening to her. She hears his seductive voice when he hasn't spoken. She's become forgetful and worries when she's unable to remember her own actions. Could the truth behind the strange occurrences be deadly?


Vampire, Gabriel Knight would have waited a thousand centuries for Calah Arlington to return. A stormy night brings her to him. He should've remained a secret — to protect her. Fate has other plans. Making contact under the pretension of an interview, he lures her to his estate to keep her safe from the enemy. However, he underestimates his dark desire for her. Now who will keep her safe from him?

EXCERPT:

She already visualized the piece as one that spoke of the ‘man behind the scenes’ or ‘the man without a face, but a business mind worth a billion.’ The public ate up stuff like that.

“So that concludes it then.” Gabriel stood, walked around and leaned against the desk with smooth casualness.

His proximity and height more than overwhelmed but she looked up and met his gaze. “You’re quite accomplished, Mr. Knight.”

“Gabriel.”

Again, she had the same feeling she’d had on the Yacht, as though he moved closer, so close the world ceased to exist. “Gabriel.”

He offered an alluring smile, and she had the distinct feeling that, though he’d tolerated the interview, he’d much rather have her beneath him at the moment. “Now, Calah, tell me more about you.”

His soft tone and bedroom eyes should offend but they didn’t. With any other man whom she had just conducted a professional interview she’d pack up her stuff, rent a car and be out of here. Not Gabriel. She still hadn’t looked away. He held so many secrets. What were they?

“There’s not much to tell.” Don’t fidget, she preached to herself. Don’t let him see your discomfort. “You already know the basics about me.”

His gaze seemed to crawl inside her, and she released the pen she’d been holding. It clattered to the desktop.

“But not the truths, Calah. Tell me the truths.”

Why not? Because there weren’t many. “I was always the kid who struggled to prove my intelligence. Went to Boston University and majored in journalism when I should have majored in history. Fell in love too young only to learn the hard way I’d never been in love to begin with, have no concept of what it means to love and know for a fact, I never will.”

What had she just said? She couldn’t have said those things to him. Like a whirlpool, sucking her in further―No, quicksand, his low tone wrapped around her.

“You never needed to prove your intelligence, Calah. You have always been naturally bright. Journalism was the right major, history just got in the way.” His hand moved slightly, as if it encompassed her cheek but seemed to have never left his side. “And as for love, you are right. You have never been in love… But you will be.”

HL: Wow. what a way to end an excerpt. And here, to whet your appetite even further, is the trailer:

HL: Well, if the excerpt didn't make you want to rush out and buy 'Darkest Memory', the trailer certainly would! Fantastic job, Sky and I think you have another snippet of news for us before you leave, haven't you?

SP: Good news! Heart of Vesuvius, sequel to Darkest Memory, was just contracted. This little romantic tale follows Gabriel’s sister, Alexandria from the White Mountains of New Hampshire to the Apennine Mountains of Italy onward. Expect to see ancient vampires, gladiators and Roman soldiers in this one.

Click here to learn more.

How about a few contests? Let’s start now! Leave a comment after this post for a chance to win a free copy of Darkest Memory.

Interested in the chance to win a $10 gift certificate to The Wild Rose Press? Join my Yahoo Group by June 1^st! Remember, you can set to digest to view everything at a more leisurely pace.

I’d like to thank Lyn for having me. It’s been fabulous! Be sure to swing over to my blog this Saturday, March 27th to see what Lyn is saying about her latest release, Children of the Mist. Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of Children of the Mist as well as a gift certificate to The Wild Rose Press!

Best Regards,

~Sky

Well, thank YOU Sky, it's been a real joy having you here today. I look forward to being with you on Saturday, and I wish you every success with 'Darkest Memory - and 'Heart Of Vesuvius' - can't wait for that one gladiators, Roman soldiers and vampires - what a combination, and what an amazing imagination you have, your talent is truly remarkable.

Sky's website link: http://skypurington.com

Blog Link: http://skypuringtonwrites.blogspot.com

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