Drop Dead Demons by A&E Kirk

Series: Divinicus Nex Chronicles #2
598 p.
Publisher: Createspace
Published: 2014
Source: From author for review

Survival. It's an on-going battle. 

GOING ON A TREASURE HUNT... 

Aurora Lahey finally knows why supernatural slayers salivate to slaughter her, but how to stop them? Not so much. Sure, she's discovered her own lethal powers, and has six sexy, super-charged, demon hunting Hex Boys watching her back--the hottest one watching every part of her. But when a seductive stranger delivers a deadly ultimatum, Aurora and the Hex Boys plunge into a do-or-die hunt for a legendary Mandatum treasure, which will finally shift power in their favor. Or unleash hell on earth. 

NEX MARKS THE SPOT... 

Pursued by demons of mythical proportions, Aurora and the Hex Boys race deeper into the shadowy world of a centuries-old mystery and brutal conspiracy, where no one and nothing is what it seems. Where love and betrayal go hand-in-hand, and trusting the wrong person not only breaks your heart, but gets you killed. 

DEMONS ON YOUR TAIL... 

Uncovering shocking secrets from the Hex Boys' past, hiding her Divinicus Nex identity, lying to her pretend-wish-he-were-real boyfriend, dodging demons, breaking into ancient tombs, taking the unexpected side trip to the dark depths of the Waiting World, tracking a traitor, and passing Physics...Aurora could do that in her sleep. Or more likely, die trying. 

DON'T GET CAUGHT!

My thoughts:
I enjoyed the first book so much (review) and had to wait impatiently for this one. Yes, I was impatient... I needed a hex boy fix. Ah... FINALLY! the book has arrived and I'm happy to review this book.

The pacing in the book is pretty fast and furious. Endless energy. Even Aurora's parents seem to drink from the same fountain of energy. I so need to find this fountain. With the non-stop action we also find time to laugh and even find a little snuggle time with Ayden. Oh and yes, if you haven't read the first book go do that now. This does need to be read in order.

What is different in this book from the first is that Aurora seems a bit more mature and I do love growth in my books. Matthias was a bit more of a jerk, but I still enjoy him (can't go wrong with a boy that has a soft spot for kids). The jokes were fast and furious as well and I found myself laughing out loud more than once. My biggest complaint is the ending. There isn't a huge cliffie, but one that makes you want more. So, when is the next one out? :)

I give this book 4 1/2 stars. I had so much fun with this second installment and I'm looking forward to spending my time in this world with the next book. I recommend it to those that enjoy a fast paced YA with lots of humor and swoon worthy characters.

Bonus Review:

Interview with a Hex Boy
53 p.
Published: 7/5/2014
Source: From author for review

It's the Hex Boys, guys so hot fans have dubbed them "the reason's earth's average temperature has risen!"

Want to get insight into the Hex Boys inner most thoughts and dreams? Here's your chance! Those Hexy Knights from the #1 Best Selling Divinicus Nex Chronicles series are dishing it up with wonderful women of the book blogging world. Character interviews have never been so much fun!

When Demons at Deadnight went on tour, several awesome ladies of the book blogging world took on the task of interviewing this crazy group of guys, and hilarity ensued. This is a collection of the interviews where all six boys, Ayden, Jayden, Matthias, Blake, Logan, and Tristan make appearances and answer questions. Maybe something you always wanted to ask! You'll enjoy plenty of laughs and get to know the boys better!

My thoughts:
Finally! My official, in print, proof that all the Hex boys are MINE (well, when they turn 21!). I have to say that the first interview in this book was the best, but I may be a bit prejudiced... ;) This brought back so many great memories and a lot of fun. What is great about this collection is that all the proceeds go to First Book and Reading Is Fundamental! What a great way to have a giggle and support a charity at the same time! I, of course, give this one a 5 and recommend it to those that enjoy character interviews and lots of fun. :)

P.S.

If you missed it go HERE for the NEW interview I did with Matthias and a chance at a great giveaway!

Blog Tour with Giveaway: The Divinicus Nex Chronicles by A and E Kirk

An Interview with a Hex Boy:

Those of you just joining us and missed the last interview, just click HERE and see me try to interview one of the most mysterious Hex boy in the group. While some people may be turned off by his brash behavior, others will wonder if he isn’t hiding huge depths to his personality. I’ll try to get to the bottom of that with my interview. 

Melissa: I'm so glad to meet again! We were interrupted the last time we tried to talk. Finally a moment to get to know you.

Matthias: Thanks, Melissa. You’re very kind. I apologize for the last time. It’s those idiots that I can never seem to ditch completely, but today, I think I have it handled. Ask away.

Melissa: For those that have not met you in the first book, what can you tell us about yourself and your brothers?

Matthias: We’re not supposed to talk about this so I’ll just say I’m in charge of our team of six guys who have special powers which we use to fight demons. I’m from Australia and moved to Gossamer Falls about eight years ago with my Dad who’s the sheriff. The rest of the guys already lived there, and we’ve been together as a team ever since. Technically they aren’t my brothers. We’ve just been through a lot together. We’re…close. As for my power, let’s just say I have a dark side.

Melissa: Can you tell us anything about the Mandatum?

Matthias: Not much. The Mandatum is an ancient secret society that covers the globe and is made up of those dedicated to destroying evil. But you can’t go around talking about this, Melissa, otherwise we’ll have to send Tristan to take care of your memory to keep you safe. The Mandatum takes it secret status seriously.

Melissa: Well, you can send Tristan here anyway... just sayin’...


Matthias: I know they can seem fun to have around, but you’re better off without them. Especially Blake. You haven’t heard from him have you? He’s been trying every trick in the book to get back to see you, but trust me, he’s nothing but troub—

*Blake bursts through the door*

Blake: I’m back! Don’t send Tristan! Or at least make sure Melissa doesn’t forget me! Not that anyone ever could.

Matthias: I wish I could. What are you doing here? Never mind. Go away.

Blake: Melissa begged me to come. Or she would have if someone had let me talk to her. She’s my soul mate. Or she would be if we ever got to spend time together. But don’t worry. I’ll be quiet. I’m just here to bask in the beauty that is Melissa. *Takes Melissa’s hand and stares lovingly into her eyes*

Melissa: *stares back and then remembers he’s not quite 21 yet...*
*clears throat*

Between all of you, you have a lot of supernatural abilities so I have to ask, what is your biggest inner strength?

Blake: His biggest inner strength would probably be his heart. Killer resting heart rate. Although we’re all in great shape. Or maybe it’s his abs. Not as awesome as mine of course. Wanna see? *starts to lift shirt*

Matthias: *yanks shirt down* You idiot! She’s talking about emotional inner strength.

Blake: Oh. *shoves off Matthias then flashes shirt up and down quickly before Matthias can stop him* See? Wanna jump me now?

Matthias: No she does not! But I want to thump you now.

Blake: I’m flattered, dude, but you’re not my type. Melissa, did I mention I was twenty-one now?

Matthias: You haven’t even turned eighteen!

Blake: I’m inner emotionally twenty-one.

Melissa: *grins*

Matthias: Your inner emotion is negative two.

Blake: Well, you’re worse. Your inner emotion is zero.

Matthias: *frowns* Zero would actually be higher than— Never mind. Melissa, my inner strength would be the ability to stay calm and remain focused in dire situations when everyone else panics. These morons let their emotions take over. Or in Blake’s case, his hormones.

Blake: Melissa can take over my hormones any day. *winks at Melissa*

Melissa: Um...

*considers the temptation but keeps reminding herself with a mantra they aren’t 21 yet... they aren’t 21 yet*

*still considers looking at Blake’s abs... still not 21 yet*

Matthias, I know you have a weakness for kids. Care to comment?

Matthias: *Shifts uncomfortably* Kids are innocent. Need to be protected. They should never have to deal with evil or pain. No one, especially me, should ever show them anything but kindness.

Blake: *Claps Matthias on the shoulder and smiles at Melissa* Hey beautiful babe, how about your next awesome question?

Melissa: *Smiles back*

Matthias, are you dating anyone? What kind of girl would you like? How do you feel about Aurora and Ayden? Any juicy gossip about the others? ;)

Matthias: *lights flicker as he clenches jaw* Dating? Who told you? Is this about that newspaper article? Stupid Aurora set me up. I am not “looking for love.”

Blake: So you are dating someone?

Matthias: I never said that.

Blake: You never didn’t not say that.

Matthias: If I was dating someone, I wouldn’t kiss and tell so—

Blake: Why would you have to tell her? If you kissed her, wouldn’t she know? Or do you kiss so badly she wouldn’t be able to tell?

Matthias: I kiss just fine.

Blake: Says who?

Matthias: Says no one!

Blake: Then how do you know? Maybe Melissa would volunteer to judge your kissing skills. Take her in your arms and pucker up. I’ll be an impractical observer.

Matthias: Shut up!

Blake: What? It’s for science.

Matthias: Sorry, Melissa. Okay, as for a girl, strong and independent.

Blake: Like Aurora?

Matthias: No! *shoves Blake away* She’d have to enjoy books, have a good sense of humor.

Blake: To make up for your lack of one.

Matthias: I put up with you, don’t I? She’d need to be able to keep secrets, understand the whole Mandatum thing. Love kids and family. Enjoy spending time together just her and me. I’m not a big crowd kind of guy.

Blake: This dream girl is sounding a lot like Aurora.

Matthias: No she isn’t. In fact, let’s say that my dream girl is everything opposite of Aurora. Period.

Blake: My dream girl is everything Melissa.

Melissa: *blushes*

Matthias: *rolls eyes* As for Aurora and Ayden, he took this whole pretend boyfriend thing way too far. I knew it would be a disaster. I’m just hoping he gets it out of his system soon, before she gets him killed. She’s already proven she’s dangerous for him. For all of us. And I don’t have any gossip because I can keep a secret, unlike blabbermouth Blake.

Blake: Hurtful, dude.

Melissa: Favorite books? Favorite music? Favorite anything else?

Blake: He has tons of books, especially those old weird talking ones.

Matthias: He means the classics. I was raised on Shakespeare, Greek Epics, Edgar Allan Poe, Mark Twain. I go for classical music as well. It was always playing at our house. It reminds me of…better times.

Blake: Elevator music? Yuck!

Matthias: That’s not the same music at all! I can’t talk to you. Favorite food would be Mrs. Lahey’s banana bread or my dad’s key lime pie. Favorite pastime is annoying Aurora until I can figure out how to get her out of our lives.

Blake: But she’s part of the team now so—

Matthias: And I also have to figure out how convince the rest of the idiots she’s not part of the team.

Blake: She’s so part of the team and dude, I am so your brother. Aurora’s like your big sister. We’re family! Which means since Melissa is my one and only, she’s your girlfriend-in-law! Which means maybe the whole kissing her thing wasn’t such a good idea. We’ll find you someone else to practice on.

Matthias: This is a nightmare. We’re outta here. Thanks Melissa. Always a pleasure. *takes Melissa’s hand and kisses it*

Blake: You’re outta here. Melissa and I are just getting started. And what did I just tell you about kissing my girlfriend? Although, I guess she could score you on it. You know, with a paddle, like on that dancing show. *mouth breaks into a sly grin* And then Melissa and I could use the paddle later to get all kinds of kink—

*black whip materializes and wraps around Blake*

Blake: No! Oh…wait a minute. I get it. Whips! Good idea Matthias. Although you should see how well you score first and then ask Melissa if she’s into the whole group—

*Matthias yanks Blake out the door*

Blake: *calls from outside* Melissa! Find me my love! Ow! That hurt. Dude, we really need a safe word.

Melissa: *fans self * Whips? Kissing? Abs?

*laughs and grins then has a realization...*

*mumbles* Why aren’t they 21 yet?!

Well, that was fun! All I have to do is.. wait. :( Still, remember everyone when they all turn 21 I am claiming them all! :)

Here is the daily question:

The Hex Boys guardians/fairies, each a different color, are dedicated to protecting them. Which color would your guardian/fairy be?

Demons at Deadnight
Series: Divinicus Nex Chronicles #1

For seventeen-year-old Aurora Lahey, survival is a lifestyle. 

DEMONIC DESTINY 

Aurora has the crappiest superpower on the planet. And it’s just unleashed a hit squad from hell. Demons are on the hunt, salivating to carve her carcass into confetti. 

CHARISMATIC KILLERS 

The Hex Boys—mysterious, hunky, and notorious for their trails of destruction—have the answers Aurora needs to survive. But their overload of deadly secrets and suspicious motives makes trusting them a potentially fatal move. 

LETHAL ALLIES 

The battle to save her family, herself, and stop demonic domination may cost Aurora everything worth living for, and force her to reveal her own dark secrets. But no worries. She needs the Hex Boys to pull this off, and, chances are, teaming up with these guys will get her killed anyway.

About Demons at Deadnight:

Goodreads

Amazon

Drop Dead Demons
Series: Divinicus Nex Chronicles #2

Survival. It’s an on-going battle. 

GOING ON A TREASURE HUNT… 

Aurora Lahey finally knows why supernatural slayers salivate to slaughter her, but how to stop them? Not so much. Sure, she’s discovered her own lethal powers, and has six sexy, super-charged, demon hunting Hex Boys watching her back–the hottest one watching every part of her. But when a seductive stranger delivers a deadly ultimatum, Aurora and the Hex Boys plunge into a do-or-die hunt for a legendary Mandatum treasure, which will finally shift power in their favor. Or unleash hell on earth. 

NEX MARKS THE SPOT… 

Pursued by demons of mythical proportions, Aurora and the Hex Boys race deeper into the shadowy world of a centuries-old mystery and brutal conspiracy, where no one and nothing is what it seems. Where love and betrayal go hand-in-hand, and trusting the wrong person not only breaks your heart, but gets you killed. 

DEMONS ON YOUR TAIL… 

Uncovering shocking secrets from the Hex Boys’ past, hiding her Divinicus Nex identity, lying to her pretend-wish-he-were-real boyfriend, dodging demons, breaking into ancient tombs, taking the unexpected side trip to the dark depths of the Waiting World, tracking a traitor, and passing Physics…Aurora could do that in her sleep. Or more likely, die trying.

DON’T GET CAUGHT!

About Drop Dead Demons:

Goodreads

Amazon

About the authors:

This mother-daughter duo were in and out of inter-dimensional paranormal prisons until they finally quit making up cover stories for secret societies and started writing novels. The Supernatural Continuum Warlords of the Supernatural Continuum Warlordian High Command had pity upon them, and instead of having them slaughtered by the slow, tortuous flesh eating underwater, earthworm squid, they transported them into a habitationally friendly dimension called OOARCHTOHUTHLAMADILFRUMP, also known as 21st Century Earth.

Due to a demon infestation in their sleepy mountain California town, and a lack of sexy Hex Boys to stop them, Alyssa and Eileen were forced to relocate to Los Angeles. The Amazon best seller, DEMONS AT DEADNIGHT, is book one in the DIVINICUS NEX CHRONICLES series, and the first of their exclusive re-creations of supernatural society secrets. You can uncover more paranormal, inter-dimensional classified information at AEKIRK.com and Facebook.com/AandEKirk.com.

Citizens of Earth, you are welcome.

 About A&E Kirk:

Website | Twitter Alyssa | Twitter Eileen | Facebook | Pinterest

Giveaway Info:

Each week of this tour will feature a unique Divinicus Nex prize package giveaway, so be sure to follow along for more chances to win! The weekly prize packs:

WEEK 1: Choice of ebook (book 1 or 2), celtic cross necklace, feather hair clips

WEEK 2: Choice of ebook, (1 or 2), Signed Hex Boy Heaven Poster, Love letter from a Hex boy

WEEK 3: Choice of ebook (1 or 2), Signed Hex Boy Poster, Divinicus Nex earrings

WEEK 4: Choice of ebook (1 or 2), Hex Boy Heaven Mug

Tour-Wide Giveaway: One lucky winner will receive a grand prize package consisting of a $100 Amazon gift card AND the chance to name a character in the third installment!

At each tour stop you will find a daily question. To be eligible to win the grand prize, you must answer at least 4 different daily questions. So go and visit the other tour stops, check the amazing content and answer the daily question!

Please enter via the Rafflecopter form. Giveaway is open internationally.

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Tour Schedule 

Monday, October 13th Curling Up With A Good Book Auhtor Interview

Tuesday, October 114th Books and Things Character interview

Wednesday, October 15th Blissful Book Reviews Guest Post

Thursday, October 16th Book Lovers Life Guest Post

Friday, October 17th Watcha Reading Author Interview

Monday, October 20th Her Book Thoughts! Guest Post

Tuesday, October 21st Sassy Book Lovers Guest Post

Wednesday, October 22nd fuonlyknew ~ Laura's ramblins and reviews Guest Post

Thursday, October 23rd Forever Obsession Character Interview

Friday, October 24th Sweet Southern Home Guest Post

Monday, October 27th The Haunting of Orchid Forsythia Author Interview

Tuesday, October 28th Bad Bird Reads Guest Post

Wednesday, October 29th Supernatural Snark Guest Post

Thursday, October 30th Unabridged Bookshelf Author Interview

Friday, October 31st Auggie-Talk Character Interview

Monday, November 3rd Penny For Them... Guest Post

Tuesday, November 4th Bewitched Bookworms Guest Post

Wednesday, November 5th That Girl With Books Teaser/Excerpt

Thursday, November 6th Addicted Readers Guest Post

Friday, November 7th Romancing the Dark Side Character Interview

Halloween with Harlequin Teen: Bishop and Kraven discuss “Scary Love” by Michelle Rowen

Bishop and Kraven discuss “Scary Love”

As related to Michelle Rowen

Dear Bishop,

What is the scariest thing about being in love?

BISHOP: That’s a good question. The scary thing about love is that it’s all about letting your guard down and know that means you might get hurt. How I feel about Samantha, it’s different from anything I’ve ever felt before and has really changed me as—

KRAVEN: Oh, here we go again. Are you soliloquizing about being in luuurve again? Somebody pass me a bucket, I’m gonna hurl.

BISHOP: I don’t believe anyone asked you a question or asked you to get involved here. I was asked a question and I’m answering it.

KRAVEN: Whatever, little brother. I’m just trying to help you not look pathetic. Seems like I’m too late.

BISHOP: You wouldn’t know anything about real love if it hit you in the face.

KRAVEN: Love has hit me in the face before. Literally. Luckily, as a demon I heal up really well and my face is just as pretty as ever. Didn’t even leave a mark. Don’t get your angel wings in a bunch about it.

BISHOP: I don’t have wings.

KRAVEN: Well, not anymore. But that’s another story.

BISHOP: Right. Anyway, you can leave any time and let me get back to what I was doing.

KRAVEN: What’s the scariest thing about being in love? I’ll tell you, anonymous asker-of-question. It’s scary when somebody takes a sharp knife, slices it into your chest, carves out your heart, and then takes a big juicy bite out of it. That’s what love feels like. And that’s why I avoid it like the plague. Not that the plague would affect a demon like me, but you know what I mean.

BISHOP: Love is also powerful and can heal wounds.

KRAVEN: Dude. Seriously. Shut up. How did you get to be the hero of this story, anyway? I’m soooo much cooler than you and I have way better one-liners.

BISHOP: Debatable.

KRAVEN: Not debatable. Fact. Angels are boring. Demons are awesome.

BISHOP: Whatever you have to believe to get you through your lonely existence.

KRAVEN: Lonely? What’s lonely about my existence when I get to spend it earthbound with my angelic little brother. There’s brotherly love you know, not just luuurve for your cute little brunette girlfriend. Both are scary.

BISHOP: Can’t say her name? I know you’re jealous of what we have.

KRAVEN: Jealous? Dude. Listen to yourself. You’re delusional. Sweetness doesn’t mean a thing to me. Never will. You’re the one who likes teenagers, not me.

BISHOP: I am a teenager. So are you.

KRAVEN: I suppose, technically speaking and all. But I like older women. Less high school drama involved, thank you very much. Besides, Sweetness is with you, sort of. For now, anyway. Enjoy your messed up romance, or whatever you want to call it. I don’t care. I just don’t want to be around it due to the whole ‘I’m gonna hurl’ thing I covered earlier.

BISHOP: Her name’s Samantha, not Sweetness.

KRAVEN: Right. And when she finishes carving out your heart and eats it for breakfast, along with whatever’s left of your soul, let me know. I’ll be happy to be a sounding board to your pain.

BISHOP: *glares*

KRAVEN: So…want to go shopping for Halloween costumes later? I totally want to be a vampire. 
Like a scary one, not a sparkly one.

Including Dark Kiss and Wicked Kiss, Michelle Rowen has written over two dozen books for adults and young adults in paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and paranormal mystery, and has been the recipient of a Holt Medallion and a Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award. She also writes as NYT bestselling author Morgan Rhodes. Learn more about Michelle and her books at www.michellerowen.com and follow her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/michellerowen.

About Michelle Rowen - website, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads

Dark Kiss

by Michelle Rowen

I don't do dangerous.

Smart, über-careful, ordinary Samantha-that's me. But I just couldn't pass up a surprise kiss from my number-one unattainable crush. A kiss that did something to me...something strange. Now I feel hungry all the time, but not for food. It's like part of me is missing-and I don't know if I can get it back

Then there's Bishop. At first I thought he was just a street kid, but the secrets he's keeping are as intense as his unearthly blue eyes. If he's what I think he is, he may be the only one who can help me. But something terrifying is closing in, and the one chance Bishop and I have to stop it means losing everything I ever wanted and embracing the darkness inside me.... 

NIGHTWATCHERS

When angels and demons must work together, something beyond evil is rising...

About Dark Kiss - Goodreads, Amazon, B&N, Indiebound

Giveaway!

What an amazing treat! HarlequinTEEN is tricking out your wrist with some holiday bling!

A unique and brand new Bracelet from X by Trollbeads with a Halloween themed link among black rubber links!

Just fill out the rafflecopter form below (US/Can only):

Author Guest Post and Character Interview: Dianne Duvall

Character Interview: Étienne & Krysta

Thank you for joining me!  And thank you, Melissa, for letting me visit Books and Things again.  Today is release day for DARKNESS RISES, the fourth book in my Immortal Guardians paranormal romance series!  I’m so excited!  If you like alpha males and strong heroines, danger mixed with humor, action and intensity interspersed with soft, tender moments, and — of course — steamy romance, then this book is for you.  ;-)  After barely surviving a vicious vampire attack, mortal Krysta Linz has dedicated her life to slaying every blood-sucking, psychotic vampire she can find.  She does an excellent job of it, too . . . until Immortal Guardian Étienne d’Alençon sees her take on four vampires by herself and is instantly captivated.  Sparks soon fly as he endeavors to learn more of her and Krysta discovers that not everyone with fangs and glowing eyes is her enemy. 

I thought I would have a little fun and give readers a glimpse of my Immortal Guardians crew through a series of character interviews.  Thank you, to my friends online, for providing some of the questions. :)  Today Krysta and Étienne will be interviewed by Sheldon, his brother Richart’s notoriously green Second, or human assistant:

Sheldon:  Hi, guys.  Thanks for taking time out of tonight’s hunt to finish the interview.  

Krysta:  What is this for again?  Étienne never told me.

Étienne:  Because you kept distracting me.

Krysta:  *winks*  I didn’t hear you complaining.

Sheldon:  Don’t start flirting with him.  His eyes are already beginning to glow and I’d like to at least get a handful of questions answered before he carries you off to do I-don’t-want-to-know-what-to-you.    

Krysta:  *laughs*  All right.  I’ll behave.  So . . . what is this for?

Sheldon:  The extensive network of humans who work to protect Immortal Guardians and shield their existence from society.  There’s been a lot more immortal traffic down at Network Headquarters lately, and most of the employees are still pretty nervous around them.

Krysta:  *looks at Étienne*  I know you explained this to me, but it still seems weird that HUMANS are risking all to protect IMMORTALS when immortals are the ones with the preternatural speed, strength, and senses.  

Étienne: *shrugs*  Most business is still conducted during the day and you’ve seen what happens to us when we’re exposed to sunlight.  We need Seconds like Cam and Sheldon to handle all of the crap we can’t. 

Sheldon:  *nods*  The rest is simple math.  Immortal Guardians have been single-handedly keeping the vampire menace in check for millennia, preventing those driven insane by the virus from preying upon humans.  But there are very few Immortal Guardians in the world.  Far fewer than there are humans or vampires.  So the loss of even one immortal would be felt in a big way.  The humans at The Network all feel the same way I do — that it’s worth risking our lives to ensure that immortals can continue to risk theirs to protect humanity.

Krysta:  That’s pretty much what Étienne said.  It just still seems weird.

Sheldon:  *grins*  I guess it does to newcomers.  You’ll get used to it eventually.  So.  First question.  Krysta, did you ever imagine yourself falling in love with an old fart like Étienne?

Étienne:  *scowls*

Krysta:  *laughs*  Don’t say that.  He’s sensitive about his age.

Sheldon:  Dude, you’re like two-hundred-and-thirty years old.  Roland is damned near a thousand and HE isn’t sensitive about HIS age.  Man up.

Étienne:  First of all, Roland is the exception to every rule.  And second, I’m not sensitive about my age.  I just don’t want Krysta to think I’m too old for her.

Krysta:  *flutters her eyelashes*  You’ve proven many times over to my immense satisfaction that you aren’t.

Étienne:  *smiles*  Minx.

Sheldon:  Hey, I was serious about the no-flirting thing.

Krysta:  Sorry.

Sheldon:  Let’s see . . .  *consults notepad full of questions*  Étienne, is it true that Krysta tried to decapitate you the first time you met?

Étienne:  Yes.  I stopped the shoto sword mere inches from my neck.

Sheldon:  That is so hot.

Étienne:  *laughs*  I thought so, too.

Sheldon:  I assume, Krysta, that you thought he was a vampire?

Krysta:  Yes.  I kept expecting him to try to kill me and couldn’t figure out why he didn’t.  And you have NO idea how confusing it was to actually find myself attracted to him.  I totally thought he was messing with my head.

Sheldon:  WERE you messing with her head?

Étienne:  *scowls*  Of course not.

Sheldon:  Does it bother you, Krysta, that Étienne can read your mind?

Étienne:  I told you in our previous interview that most of the time I CAN’T read her mind.  I just catch the occasional stray thought or two.

Krysta:  Yes, but it still bothered me in the beginning because the stray thoughts you DID catch were always the embarrassing ones.

Étienne:  *grins*  They didn’t embarrass ME.  *grunts when she elbows him*  Besides, you’ve paid me back many times since then by intentionally sending me naughty thoughts at totally inappropriate moments.

Krysta:  *smiles back*  What can I say?  I like to see you squirm.

Sheldon:  You seem to be taking all of this in stride, Krysta.

Krysta:  I didn’t in the beginning.  I actually tried to decapitate him a second time.

Sheldon:  Again — so hot.

Krysta:  *laughs*  I had never heard of immortals and didn’t know how they differed from the maddened vampires I slew every chance I could get, so . . . I didn’t know what to think of him.  Étienne was clearly different, but — for all I knew — he really COULD have been messing with my head.

Étienne:  And yet you risked your life to save mine.

Krysta:  After you risked yours to save mine.  

Sheldon:  *sighs*  And now his eyes are glowing.  Fine.  This interview’s over.

Étienne:  Thank you.

Sheldon:  I’ll see if I can find someone else I can pester with questions.  You guys have a nice night. 

Krysta:  Thank you.  You, too, Sheldon.

Darkness Rises

Krysta is used to getting the drop on vampires. Her "special abilities" aren't much, but the plan is simple—she plays helpless pretty young thing to lure them in. Then her shoto swords come out and it's bye-bye, bloodsucker. Until one night she finds herself with an unexpected ally. He's a vampire, all right, but different. Mysterious. Handsome. And more interested in saving her skin than draining it. 

Étienne has been an Immortal Guardian for two hundred years—long enough to know that Krysta is special. He can't stop thinking about her long legs, even more than her short swords. Then he discovers the vamps she's exterminating have friends in high places, and the Guardians are in danger too. He'll have to accept Krysta's help to save them. The stakes for a mortal are high. But the cost to his heart might be higher. . .

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Author Bio

Dianne Duvall is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Immortal Guardians paranormal romance series.  Her debut novel, Darkness Dawns, was nominated for the RT Reviewers' Choice Award for Best Vampire Romance by RT Book Reviews and for Best Paranormal Romance—Vampire by The Romance Reviews.  Other books in the series, including Night Reigns, Phantom Shadows, and the Predatory anthology, have been deemed Top Picks by RT Book Reviews, The Romance Reviews, and Night Owl Reviews.  When she isn't writing, Dianne is active in the independent film industry and once even appeared onscreen as a machete-wielding maniac not unlike the vampires in her novels.

Connect With Dianne Online

Website:  http://www.dianneduvall.com

Blog:  http://dianneduvall.blogspot.com/

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

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/DianneDuvall

Youtube:  http://www.youtube

Pinterest:  http://pinterest.com/dianneduvall

Goodreads:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4400405.Dianne_Duvall

Follow along with all the posts in this tour! Go HERE for the complete list and dates. Giveaways at all stops!

Giveaway

What question would YOU ask Étienne and Krysta if you could?  Let me know for a chance to win a signed copy of PREDATORY, my last release, + Immortal Guardians swag. Giveaway is international.

(my review of Predatory)

Predatory

Four of today's most exciting paranormal authors take readers into the thrilling realm of vampires, immortals, and other supernatural beings with a thirst for illicit desire...

In Still Darkness by Dianne Duvall
Immortal Richart d'Alençon can't forget the woman who rewarded him with a sensuous kiss after he saved her from a trio of vampires. While Richart knows that loving a human can only bring trouble, the taste of forbidden lust is too great to resist...

...and many more short stories

Author Blog Post: Dianne Duvall with Giveaway!

Thank you, Melissa, for letting me visit Books and Things! I’m so excited to be here, celebrating the release of PHANTOM SHADOWS, the third book in my Immortal Guardians paranormal romance series! Bastien and Melanie’s story was so much fun to write! I thought today I would give you a glimpse into their characters through a character interview.

In case you’re new to my Immortal Guardians, I’ll just take a moment to explain that the vampires and immortals in my series are both infected with a rare symbiotic virus that produces the increased speed, strength, and regenerative properties, as well as the photosensitivity and need for blood, that both possess. Vampires are humans who have been infected with the virus. They suffer brain damage that causes them to rapidly descend into madness. Immortals are gifted ones, men and women born with advanced DNA, who have been infected with the virus. Their advanced DNA protects them from the madness and bestows upon them special abilities that help them as they hunt the maddened vampires who prey upon humans.

An extensive network of humans aids the immortals, including Seconds (personal guards). Today a Second by the name of Sheldon will be interviewing Melanie and Bastien.

Sheldon: Thanks for sitting down with me for an interview, guys.

Melanie: Thank you for agreeing to do it. I know Chris Reordon often conducts interviews and didn’t think he would be able to . . . get past . . .

Sheldon: The deep-seated hatred he feels for Bastien?

Melanie: Yes.

Sheldon: His desire to kill him?

Melanie: Yes.

Sheldon: His–

Bastien: We get it. First question.

Sheldon: *clears his throat* Right. So. Melanie, how do you like working with vampires on a daily basis? You’re the first mortal to do so for this length of time.

Melanie: It’s been an amazing experience. And a heartbreaking one, too. The vampires surrendered during Bastien’s uprising and were provided with apartments down at network headquarters.

Sheldon: Right across from your office.

Melanie: Yes. It was a difficult adjustment for them, but they’ve settled in nicely and have really advanced our understanding of the virus and the madness it causes.

Sheldon: Were you scared?

Melanie: I was nervous at first. Who wouldn’t be? But, working with them every day, getting to know them . . . They’re friends now. Family. It kills me that I haven’t been able to help them.

Bastien: You HAVE helped them.

Melanie: I haven’t found a cure. And, even if I did and managed to destroy the virus, they would be left with no viable immune system.

Bastien: You’ve helped them, Melanie. In dozens of ways. And, if anyone can find a solution to this, you can.

Sheldon: *nods* That’s what everyone is saying.

Melanie: That’s a lot of pressure.

Bastien: But you’re handling it beautifully.

Sheldon: *smiles* They say that, too. So, what do your colleagues think of your working hands-on with vampires?

Melanie: I don’t really think about that.

Bastien: *snorts* The men are total wusses and make snide comments because they’re too cowardly to do it themselves.

Melanie: You know about that?

Bastien: Yes.

Melanie: How?

Bastien: The walls at the network aren’t soundproof. The vampires hear EVERYTHING that goes on there and passed it along.

Melanie: *nibbles her lower lip* You didn’t . . . do anything . . . did you? To remedy it, I mean? Because there haven’t been any snide comments of late and I’ve been wondering why.

Bastien: I may have held a conversation with Dr. Whetsman and his cronies.

Melanie: *groans* Bastien, what did you do?

Bastien: *innocent look* Nothing . . . *sly smile* . . . that they didn’t deserve.

Sheldon: *laughs as Melanie groans again* You’d better hope Chris Reordon doesn’t find out. He already wants your head on a platter.

Bastien: I’m pretty sure they won’t tell anyone.

Sheldon: I bet they won’t. Now, Bastien, you seem to spend an awful lot of time at the network visiting the, uh, vampires.

Bastien: They’re like brothers to me.

Sheldon: And it’s purely a coincidence that you usually visit during times they’re working with Dr. Lipton?

Bastien: Yes.

Sheldon: Dude, come on. I saw you kiss her.

Bastien: No, you didn’t.

Sheldon: Yes, I–

Bastien: *eyes flash bright amber*

Sheldon: *swallows* No, I didn’t.

Bastien: *nods, eyes returning to their customary warm brown*

Sheldon: Okay, off the record, I did. Note I said OFF THE RECORD, so you don’t have to hurt me.

Bastien: And?

Sheldon: And she didn’t try to stake you, so she must have been willing. Melanie, when did you first realize you had a crush on Satan?

Melanie: *laughs* You love to live dangerously, don’t you? I was intrigued by Bastien before I even met him. The vampires talked about him often in their early days here. Still do, in fact. And I liked what I heard. Once I met him, *sends Bastien a flirtatious glance* I liked what I saw just as much.

Sheldon: Gag. Bastien, when did you first realize you had feelings for Melanie?

Bastien: None of your business.

Sheldon: Good enough.

Melanie: *laughs again* He isn’t what you think he is, Sheldon.

Sheldon: Right.

Melanie: Bastien is a good man, not the monster so many believe him.

Sheldon: He raised an army of psychotic vampires with the intention of destroying all Immortal Guardians.

Melanie: That was just a misunderstanding.

Sheldon: Uh huh. You’re not going to convince me, so I’ll just change the subject. Melanie, rumor has it you can kick some serious ass.

Melanie: *blushes* Not really.

Bastien; Yes, she can. I’ve seen her in action. Melanie can hold her own against vampires, an amazing feat for a mortal.

Sheldon: Really? I thought only Ami could do that.

Melanie: I’m not nearly as good as Ami.

Bastien: Melanie is a superlative warrior.

Sheldon: But, how is that possible? You’re a doctor, not a Second.

Melanie: Chris wouldn’t allow me to work with the vampires unless I could defend myself with as much skill as possible. I underwent extensive training in weapons and martial arts.

Sheldon: That. Is. Hot.

Bastien: Yes, it is.

Sheldon: I love strong women.

Bastien: As do I.

Melanie: *leans into Bastien’s side*

Bastien: *eyes flash a brilliant amber once more*

Sheldon: What just happened?

Melanie: Bastien can feel the emotions of anyone who touches him and is . . . reacting to something he felt when I leaned into him.

Sheldon. Oh. Ohhhhh. Gross. He’s turned on, isn’t he?

Bastien: Interview’s over.

Sheldon: Hell, yes. Melanie, it was nice to see you again. I have the name of a good psychiatrist if you ever want to have your head examined and find out why you like this guy so much.

Bastien: If you don’t want to get an eyeful of my naked ass, I suggest you leave now.

Sheldon: I’m out.

Bastien: And remember, this was off the record.

Sheldon: Far off the record. So far off the record that the record can’t even be–

Bastien: Sheldon.

Sheldon: Right. *hustles out the door*

Bastien: *caresses Melanie’s face* I still don’t know what you see in me.

Melanie: *catches his hand and presses a kiss to his palm* Don’t worry. You will someday.

Phantom Shadows

Dr. Melanie Lipton is no stranger to the supernatural. She knows immortals better than they know themselves, right down to their stubborn little genes. So although a handsome rogue immortal seems suspicious to her colleagues, Sebastien Newcombe intrigues Melanie. His history is checkered, his scars are impressive, and his ideas are daring. But it's not his ideas that have Melanie fighting off surges of desire. . .

Bastien is used to being the bad guy. In fact, he can't remember the last time he had an ally he could trust. But Melanie is different--and under her calm, professional exterior he senses a passion beyond anything in his centuries of experience. Giving in to temptation is out of the question--he can't put her in danger. But she isn't asking him...

Kindle Contest

Don’t miss my big kindle contest! In addition to the giveaway here at Books and Things, I’m giving away THREE Kindles (or Kindle Gift Cards if you already have one) to celebrate the release of PHANTOM SHADOWS. See my website for details.

Dianne's Website: http://www.dianneduvall.com
Blog: http://dianneduvall.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dianne-Duvall/248355201895532
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/DianneDuvall
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVcJ9xnm_i2ZKV7jM8dqAgA?feature=mhee
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4400405.Dianne_Duvall
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/dianneduvall

I hope you’ll enjoy Bastien and Melanie’s story! Thank you for joining us! 

Dianne Duvall

Giveaway!

Oh now I hope you see why I enjoyed this one so much. And guess what? Dianne has offered one lucky winner the choice of any Immortal Guardian book! So if you need the first, second or third you can get the one you need! Oh and guess what? It's INTERNATIONAL! Sweet, right? To enter just fill out the rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

Character Interview of Hester from The White Swan Affair

London, 1810 

After the tragic death of her beloved, Hester Aspinall vowed never to be ruled by her passions again. Still, she is drawn to her landlord, handsome adventurer Thomas Ramsay—but she doesn't fool herself that a man of his station would look twice at a poor tailor's sister. 

With the sea for a mistress, Thomas has no intention of entering into matrimony. And yet, he can't get the plain-spoken and desirable Hester out of his mind, even though she's never tried to secure his attentions as other women do. 

Everything changes the night Hester's brother is arrested during a raid on a gay brothel, the infamous White Swan. With no one else to turn to, and terrified Robert will hang for his crime, Hester accepts Thomas's offer to bear the cost of the defense. A true gentleman, Thomas expects nothing in return—but Hester can no longer deny her own desires... 

She may offer her body eagerly, but can she protect her heart?

M: Hester, thanks so much for joining me today at Books and Things!! I really appreciate you stopping by to answer some questions.

So, let’s start with the biggie: When did you know you were in love with Thomas?

H: Well, if you will promise not to think me very forward, I will admit to liking Thomas Ramsay from the moment we first met in my brother’s shop. He is a very likely looking man. But I never imagined that he would return my interest so I tried to suppress an interest in him that I might have felt. We moved in very different circles. It was only with my brother’s arrest and the chaos that ensued that Thomas and I were able to bridge our differences. But once I was installed in his home, I knew that my heart was in serious danger of being lost.

There were so many instances when he showed me what a truly excellent man he was. He rescued me from the mob outside the shop; he took me into his home when I had nowhere else to go; he assumed the burden of my brother’s upkeep whilst in Newgate. But those large gestures had less to do with my falling in love with him than the quiet, unobtrusive gestures I observed him perform countless times. He did them because they made me happy, not because he expected to be rewarded for it. That’s when I knew I loved him with all my heart.


M: Aside from the romance, you deal with some serious consequences of your brother's lifestyle. How did you feel when you first hear about the charges?

H: I thought the papers must be in error. That there had been some sort of dreadful muddle or that there was a case of mistaken identity. I didn’t even know what it meant to be ‘homosexual’ – Thomas had to explain it to me. I wanted to sink into the floor. But very quickly, I became angry. Angry at Robert. Angry at those false friends who would not support us. Angry at myself for the doubts I was entertaining about my brother’s innocence. It was not a happy time and I am eternally grateful that those days are behind us now.

M: What made you accept your brother as he is?

H: Is it enough to say that he is my brother, so I could do no less? But I cannot lie. The strain that Robert’s revelation about where his romantic interests lay and then his arrest put on our relationship was considerable. He resented my turning to Thomas and living with the latter without benefit of marriage lines. I resented his interference and his lack of faith in my abilities. We spoke very bitterly to each other in the early days of our mutual ordeal. But as time passed, the hurt waned and I came to remember just what I owed to my brother. He cared for me after our parents passed away and I was carrying the child of my late fiancé. Few would have criticized him if he had simply turned me out of the house for my folly but he did not. He was steadfast in his protection of me and when I lost the child, he never chided me for my grief, either.

His choice to go to the White Swan that night was reckless but it was superseded by twenty-four years of kindness to me. If he had been put to death, as some of his compatriots later were, I could not have lived with the guilt if we had remained unreconciled. We both of us made choices that the other found difficult to accept, but it is the nature of family to forgive.

M: What surprised you the most by the outcome of all the drama in your life?

H: That I should be lucky enough to spend the rest of my days with the man I love and my brother with the man he loves. Of course, I miss Robert dreadfully, now that he and Timothy have travelled to India to act as my husband’s business representatives but knowing how happy he is, now that he is free of the cloud that hung above him here in England, I have resigned myself to it. We are reconciled and distance is no true distance between those who love each other, I believe.

As for myself, Thomas and I, despite the differences and difficulties that lay between us in the beginning, are truly well matched. I am every day reminded of my good fortune in matters of the heart. It was not an easy road to travel but having him in my life makes all of the worry worthwhile.

M: Thanks again, Hester! I'm so glad to have you here! Everyone, don't forget to leave a comment or a question for Hester!

H: Thank you, Melissa. As a token of my appreciation, I’d like to offer one of your delightful readers a chance to win a signed copy of “The White Swan Affair” It is Miss Mady’s excellent book that recounts all of the perils, romance and adventures I faced with Thomas and my brother during the course of the trial. If they would be so good as to fill out the rafflecopter form a digital copy of the book will be sent to one lucky recipient.

Elyse Mady is the author of historical romances “The White Swan Affair” and “The Debutante’s Dilemma”, with Carina Press and two contemporary romances.  Upcoming books include the Regency novella “The Debutante’s Desire”.  She blogs at www.elysemady.com.  You can also find her on Twitter at @elysemady, Facebook and Goodreads.

In addition to her writing commitments, Elyse also teaches film and literature at a local college. With her excellent writerly imagination, she one day dreams of topping the NY Times Bestseller’s List and reclaiming her pre-kid body without the bother of either sit-ups or the denunciation of ice-cream.