Angels' Blood Countdown: Erin McCarthy - Hard and Fast ARC

Winner: The random numbers have rolled again and the winner is: Jessica Kennedy! An email's on the way to you.

Only 4 days to the release of ANGELS' BLOOD! Here's what oflindentrees, one of the winners of the ARC contest, had to say about it:

With a plot so captivating as to keep me up all night to finish in a single reading, and a romance so packed with wonder, lust, a fierce protectiveness, and a scorching heat that will leave you burned, Angels’ Blood will have you addicted immediately.

And the celebrations continue. Today's giveaway is an ARC of Erin McCarthy's Hard and Fast. This is the second book in her series about hot racecar drivers. The first was Flat Out Sexy, which received great reviews around the web.

Hard and Fast releases in May and the ARC will be posted out when it's ready. Check out that sexy cover!

Today's entry question comes from Una: Do you read the next book teasers at the end of a book?

Hmm, I try to resist because I know it'll make me crazy, but sometimes I can't help it! How about you all?

Angels' Blood Countdown: Denise Rossetti - The Flame and the Shadow

Winner: The random winner of the Denise Rossetti giveaway is Lisa F! Lisa F, please email me at nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com.

5 days to the release of ANGELS' BLOOD! Here's what Romance Junkies had to say about Elena and Raphael's dangerous dance.

ANGELS' BLOOD is a fully nuanced and startling story from start to finish. Even as there are angels, vampires, and hunters, the focus of this story is on stellar characterization and world building. Nalini Singh should take a bow! ANGELS' BLOOD is going to leave you hungering for more instantly.

Woohoo! The celebration continues with a giveaway of a trade paperback edition of Denise Rossetti's The Flame and the Shadow.

Here's the blurb:

There cannot be one...without the other.

Some are drawn to the light. Some are drawn to the dark. Some desire both.

Grayson of Concordia, known on countless worlds as the Duke of Ombra, is a mercenary, a sorcerer of shadows - a man whose soul is consumed by darkness. For Gray, the bleak savagery in his heart is manifest in an entity he calls Shad. He has long resisted Shad's enticements, but when he is hired to kidnap a fire witch, he seizes the chance to restore his soul - no matter the cost.

Cenda's heart is ash. Since the death of her precious baby daughter, life has lost all meaning for the fire witch. Slowly, she has worked to master her powers and go on living. But when she encounters Gray, her will is no match for her desire, though her love may not survive the terrible discovery of Gray's plans.

I love that cover. You can read an excerpt on Denise's website!

Today's entry question comes from Allison: Favorite setting/location for the hero/heroine to get all close and cuddly ;)

Angels' Blood Countdown: SJ Day - Eve of Darkness ARC

Winner: The random numbers have rolled and the winner of the Eve of Darkness ARC is Ashley! Ashley, can you please email me at nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com.

5 days till the release of ANGELS' BLOOD! Here's what Shuzluva at Dionne Galace had to say about it:

I admit that I’m hesitant to start any new series..But I pressed on, and with some trepidation began to read. Then within the first two pages the Death Star Tractor beam moment happened, and I just couldn’t put the damn thing down...The Angel/Vampire world is a place I’m looking forward to visiting again…SOON…what a great start to a new series!

Today the countdown continues with an ARC of SJ Day's Eve of Darkness, the first book in her Marked series. I've just started reading this and I'm find it a sexy, action-packed ride!

Check out the blurb:

For Evangeline Hollis, a long-ago fling with a bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks just became a disaster of biblical proportions. One night with a leather-clad man of mystery has led to a divine punishment: the mark of Cain.

Thrust into a world where sinners are drafted to kill demons, Even knows her learning curve must be short. A longtime agnostic, she begrudgingly maneuvers through a celestial bureaucracy where is a valuable but ill-treated pawn. She's also become the lastest point of contention in the oldest case of sibling rivalry in history...

But she'll worry about all that later. Right now, she's ore concerned with learning to kill while staying alive. And saving the soul she'd never quite believed she had.

Eve of Darkness releases April 28th, followed by Eve of Destruction in June, and Eve of Chaos in July. You can check out more info on the author's website.

To enter, just leave a comment with your answer to this question from PamK: What is your most reread book? My addition: If you don't reread, what do you do with the books you really love? Do you still have a keeper shelf?

Angels' Blood Countdown: Chris Marie Green - Night Rising

Winners: The random winners of Night Rising are farscape_girl and twalls! Please email me at nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com if you don't get an email from me.

6 days to the release of ANGELS' BLOOD!

ANGELS' PAWN is now out and already getting great reviews. Here's what Angela at Touch the Night had to say about it.

I’m continually amazed by Nalini’s ability to create fully realized characters, especially in novellas where the shortened format makes that difficult for a lot of authors. Angels’ Pawn is no different...It’s a fantastic read...and I highly recommend it.

Tonight, we're celebrating with a giveaway of not one but two copies of Chris Marie Green's Night Rising, book 1 of her Vampire Babylon series.

Chris also has A Drop of Red, book 4 in the series coming out in March. Here's the blurb for A Drop of Red.
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Hollywood stuntwoman-turned-vampire hunter Dawn Madison is tired to the bone and beyond. Along with her comrades-in-arms, she managed to wipe out the Los Angeles Vampire Underground. And in doing so, she uncovered not only her own dark family heritage but also a terrible truth about the man she loves. Now all she wants to do is get to the next bloodsucking community, taking care of business with them, too.

Luckily, when it comes to battling the undead, there’s no shortage of Undergrounds.

When a new one is found in England, Dawn and the team are dispatched to carry the fight from the flash of Los Angeles to the seemingly staid and stolid streets of London. Dawn knows by now how deceiving appearances can be—and she is about to find out that it’s not only the beautiful people of Hollywood who are willing to bargain with evil…

And a note from Chris to tell you a bit more about her upcoming release!

I hope you’ve read the first three books in the series (“the Hollywood trilogy,”) because number four is ready to take you and Dawn Madison’s hunting team further Underground. In NIGHT RISING, the “main mystery” focused on the deaths of Jesse Shane and Robby Pennybaker.

In MIDNIGHT REIGN, the “Vampire Killer” murders were solved.

In BREAK OF DAWN, the mysteries of Benedikte and the Hollywood Underground were tied up.

And, in A DROP OF RED, the “main mystery” has a little something to do with some very young, naughty wild girls who seem to keep a terrible, strange beast in a bedroom upstairs. You’ll find out how this mystery will tie into the newest Underground by the end of book four, and, in book five, THE PATH OF RAZORS (August, 2009), the team will be ready to go full throttle against this Underground!

Happy hunting. : )

All the best,

Chris Marie Green
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Today's entry question comes from Donnas: Werewolves or Vampires or ??? Who would win?

Angels' Blood Countdown: Vivi Anna - The Vampire's Quest

Winners: The random winners of The Vampire's Quest are Christine (comment #49) and Jeanne Ryan. Please email me at nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com.

Only 6 days to the release of ANGELS' BLOOD!!!
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Today's first giveaway is courtesy of Vivi Anna - not one but two signed copies of her April release, The Vampire's Quest, book 4 in The Valorian Chronicles (to be posted out when she receives her author copies).

Here's the blurb:

IN A RACE AGAINST LIFE AND DEATH, ONE WOMAN HOLDS THE KEY TO SANITY AND SALVATION

After escaping from the Otherworld Crime Unit, Kellen Falcon came to Nouveau Monde to crack a rare blood disease. But the European hotbed of temptation yielded sport no vampire could resist—criminologist Sophie St. Clair. And with only days to live, Kellen sought sweet release from her to escape a savage past.

The lycan beauty wasn’t one to stray from her pact. But an investigation into a downtown bombing now tied the two together. And it wasn’t long before Kellen’s smoldering eyes and Sophie’s fierce desire for this vampire put her loyalties to the test….

Today's entry question comes from Tammy: Do you LIKE/LOVE/ADORE and want more excerpts(aka spoilers) from your fave authors?

Guest Blog - My Book Addiction And More

I'm guest-blogging at My Book Addiction and More, talking about novellas (including ANGELS' PAWN). Drop by and say hi :-)

Amanda Ashby's Zombie Blog Party

My friend and fellow writer Amanda Ashby is having a blog party complete with giveaways to launch her new book Zombie Queen of Newbury High. Swing by her blog to check out posts about all things zombie!

Angels' Blood Countdown: Ilona Andrews - The Kate Daniels Series

Winner: The random numbers have rolled and the lucky winner is Zealith! Zealith, please email me at nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com.

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7 days to the release of ANGELS' BLOOD and only 1 till ANGELS' PAWN hits the e-shelves!!

Here's what Christine of The Happily Ever After... had to say after beginning ANGELS' BLOOD:

I started reading Angel's Blood last night and it is amazing. ..All the hype is true! Honestly, I'm only on page 133, but so far, it is really fantastic. The characters, the series premise, the conflict, the WORLD. Brilliant. Just brilliant. You're going to love it!

As part of the countdown celebrations, I declare today Ilona Andrews' day!!

Yes, that's right, not only do I have signed copies of Magic Bites & Magic Burns thanks to Ilona Andrews, I also have an ARC of Magic Strikes courtesy of the wonderful Anne Sowards at Ace/Roc!

If you've been reading this blog a while, you know that Ilona is one of my favorite writers, and I'm certain Magic Strikes is going to be completely full of awesome. Click on the Ilona Andrews tag at the bottom of this post to read about Magic Bites and Magic Burns. You can also check out excerpts on Ilona's webpage.

Here's the blurb for Magic Strikes, which releases March 31st! (More Kate and Curran mmmm)

Drafted into working for the Order of Merciful Aid, mercenary Kate Daniels has more paranormal problems than she knows what to do with these days. And in Atlanta, where magic comes and goes like the tide, that's saying a lot.

But when Kate's werewolf friend Derek is discovered nearly dead, she must confront her greatest challenge yet. As her investigation leads her to the Midnight Games - an invitation only, no holds barred, ultimate preternatural fighting tournament - she and Curran, the Lord of the Beasts, uncover a dark plot that may forever alter the face of Atlanta's shapeshifting community...

To enter to win the entire set, all you have to do is leave your answer to this question in the comments (question courtesy of Amy): Which author would you target with a gun/ability/spell/whatever that makes them write the same great quality stuff, but FASTER (because isn't that what we all want - more great books by our fav writers)!?!?

Angels' Pawn Buy Links & Snippet

Taking the top spot for a few days to say the buy links for ANGELS' PAWN are starting to appear! (The ANGELS' BLOOD Countdown, complete with daily book and ARC prizes, continues below this post, so scroll down to see.)

Here are the buy links I've seen. If you've seen another, please leave a comment and I'll update the post. Also, the release date is showing as 17th Feb, so you might get lucky and be able to download it early!

Kindle Edition
Books On Board (Mobi Pocket)

In celebration of the buy links going active, here's a snippet from ANGELS' PAWN! (I love these two!)

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“You’d think with all the vampires walking around in daylight, that old rumor would die, but no, it keeps on chugging,” she said, soaking in the distinctive flavor of the coffee. “I like this stuff.”

“It suits you.”

“Bitter and strange?”

“Exotic and luscious.” He ran a finger down the bared skin of her arm. “Such beautiful skin you have, cher. Like the desert at sunset.”

She stepped out of reach. “Go put on a shirt and get your mind out of bed.”

“Impossible with you around.”

“Pretend I’m holding a rifle. In fact, pretend I have you in the crosshairs.”

Janvier sighed, rubbing at a jaw shadowed by morning stubble. “I love it when you talk dirty.”

“Then this should rock your world,” she said, ordering herself to stop thinking about what that stubble would feel like against her skin. “Blood, kidnapping, feud, hostage.”

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Hope you all enjoy the novella!

Angels' Blood Countdown: Rebecca York - Ghost Moon

Winner: The random numbers have chosen their winner and it's Mo from Unmainstream Mom Reads! An email is on the way to you.

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8 days to ANGELS' BLOOD and only 2 till ANGELS' PAWN hits the e-shelves!

The countdown continues with a signed copy of Ghost Moon by Rebecca York!

To protect one man, she must risk the vengeance of many...

A freed slave from a parallel universe, Quinn has come to this world on a vital mission. But she's stopped in her tracks by the seductive attentions of a mysterious spirit. He's a ghost named Caleb Marshall - a werewolf who was supposedly murdered by the ancestors of her dearest friends...

When Caleb finds a way to take over a human body, Quinn can no longer resist her overwhelming desire, even though she's not sure she can trust him. But soon she discovers that they have a common enemy - and if she doesn't act fast, she may lose the man she's come to love, along with her life...

The next book in the Moon series is Eternal Moon, so keep an eye out for it in April! Here's a blurb to tempt you:

On an undercover assignment, P.I. Renata Cordona is saved from a pack of vicious dogs by a lone wolf who swiftly disappears. Then, out of nowhere, Jacob Marshall materializes and, with his electrifying touch, she suddenly knows the truth. Jacob is her life mate. Yet everyone Renata has ever loved has died a horrible death. Is werewolf Jacob Marshall the key to breaking the ancient curse that hangs over them? Or will the evil stalking them down through the ages destroy them both?

More info on the Moon series at Rebecca's website!

Today's entry question comes from Tinuke: Which paranormal power would you choose and why?

Angels' Blood Countdown: Catherine Spangler - Touched By Light ARC

Winner: The random winner of this ARC is Lisa N! Lisa N, please email me at nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com.

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8 days to the release of ANGELS' BLOOD and 2 days till ANGELS' PAWN!

Here's what Hilicia J Suarez, one of the winners of the ARC contest had to say about ANGELS' BLOOD:

The interactions between the Archangel Raphael and Elena are fraught with tension and heat from beginning to end. Raphael is powerful, ruthless, frightening and one sexy Archangel. Elena is a strong, talented, hardheaded, vulnerable, frightened and sexy Vampire Hunter... Together, they make for an explosive combination.

Ms. Singh has done an excellent job of combining the best of both worlds, Urban Fantasy and Romance with this installment. I am more than looking forward to the next one!

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The countdown continues with an ARC of Catherine Spangler's Touched By Light, part of her Sentinel series. Check out the brief blurb below:

Since a brutal attack, Dr. Julia Reynolds is determined to live a solitary existence. But one man who believes she’s his soul mate and his destiny has other ideas…

Coming June 2009 . . . the ultimate battle of the sexes, when Julia Reynolds and Adam Masters (first introduced in Touched by Fire) come together in a war of wills, a fiery sexual attraction, and the threat of unimaginable evil.

The book releases June, and Cathy will post out the ARC as soon as she receives it! Check out more info on the series at Cathy's website.

To enter, leave a comment with your answer to this question (supplied by Willa): If you have an all time favourite book/s do you like to collect the different cover versions when they are re-released? My addition to the question: Do you reread?

Answer either part of the question to enter!

p.s. My Internet connection is a bit erratic at the moment, so some winners may be picked a bit later. More time to get your entries in!

Angels' Blood Countdown: Lisa Hendrix - Immortal Warrior

Winners: The random winners are: Hzilionis & Aymless! Emails are on the way to you.

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It's 9 days till the release of ANGELS' BLOOD and only 3 till ANGELS' PAWN hit the e-shelves!!

This time, we're celebrating with TWO signed copies of Lisa Hendrix's Immortal Warrior!

Here's the blurb:

He came to England in search of treasure. Two hundred years later, he’s found her…

Ivar Graycloak is a brave warrior, a man known for his strength and integrity. He is also a man with a terrible secret. Long ago he was part of a Viking crew cursed by an evil sorceress to live for eternity as were-creatures. An eagle by day and a man by night, Ivar has lived a solitary existence for over two centuries. Then the king orders him to marry.

Lady Alaida is everything a man could want in a bride—intelligent, spirited, and beautiful—and their wedding night is a balm to Ivar’s lonely spirit. Then a seer brings him word of a dark vision, one that makes Ivar vow to stay away from his lovely wife forever. But now that Ivar has sampled Alaida’s passion, her humor and warmth, he is enthralled. His traitorous body-his very heart-longs for that which he
can never possess.

Lady Alaida may surprise him yet, though, for she has a power of her own-a power that will either destroy everything they hold dear or ultimately set them free…

You can check out an excerpt on Lisa's website. Her next release is Immortal Outlaw, out in June!

Today's entry question comes from Anonymous: Can you put down a really good back when you are in the middle of it and it is Midnight?

Personally, I've learned not to start a book at night...because if it's good, I'll be up till four a.m.!

Angels' Blood Countdown: Jaci Burton - Riding on Instinct ARC

Winner: The random numbers picked the very first comment this time around! The winner is Chris. An email's on the way to you.

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9 days to go till ANGELS' BLOOD hits the shelves and only 3 till ANGELS' PAWN!

Here's what Love Vampires had to say about ANGELS' BLOOD:

Angels’ Blood is a fantastically, amazingly, good read and it gets the Guild Hunter series off to a great start. It’s not like me to dictate (much!) but trust me on this, if you like paranormal romance you want to read this book.

Today, the countdown continues with Jaci Burton's Riding on Instinct, part of her sizzling Wild Riders series.

Here's the blurb:

Department of Justice agent Shadoe Grayson is out to prove she’s no rookie, and eagerly accepts her first undercover assignment at a strip club in New Orleans. Working with the Wild Riders, a government agency of bad boy bikers, her goal is to bring down a corrupt DEA agent. All she has to do now is learn to strip like a pro.

Standing in her way is the arrogant and smokin’ hot Spencer King, her partner and one of the Wild Riders. Spence thinks she looks more like a schoolteacher than a stripper, and doubts her ability to do the job. But when he mockingly challenges Shadoe to strip just for him, he finds out there’s more to the surprisingly sexy agent than by-the-book rules and Government Issue pantsuits.

Now Spencer has to resist his baser instincts while Shadoe learns that taking off your clothes doesn’t always equal losing control…

Riding on Instinct releases April, and you can read an excerpt on Jaci's website!

Today's entry question comes from Missy: What character would you love to hang out with?

Angels' Blood Countdown: Nancy Haddock - La Vida Vampire

Winner: The random numbers have spoken and the winner is Fantasy Dreamer! An email is on the way to you.

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10 days to the release of ANGELS' BLOOD and only 4 till ANGELS' PAWN!

Today's, we're continuing the celebrations with a signed copy of Nancy Haddock's debut novel, La Vida Vampire!

Here's the blurb:

She’s Gidget with fangs? Cowabunga!

Cesca Marinelli is not your typical vampire. Buried for more than 200 years in a smelly coffin under an old Victorian house, she is unearthed in a time when vampires are a protected species. Cesca dives into her second chance at afterlife, and is soon living la vida vampire as a surfer girl, a fiend for bridge, and a ghost tour guide in St. Augustine, Florida.

Cesca is riding the wave of “perfectly normal” … until the tide turns and brings a stalker, a shifter, and a killer into the picture. Suddenly Cesca is a murder suspect, and is forced to team up with sexy ex-slayer Deke Saber to solve the case. Saber insists that Cesca stop passing for mortal and embrace her vamp powers. If she doesn’t, she could be the next victim -- and this time, the wipe out will be permanent.

You can read an excerpt on Nancy's website. Also, keep an eye out for her next book, Last Vampire Standing, out in May!

Today's entry question comes from Katherine: Bookmarks or no bookmarks? If you don't use bookmarks how do you keep track of where you were in the book? If you do use bookmarks, what type do you like?

Angels' Blood Countdown: Ann Aguirre - Blue Diablo ARC

Winner: The random numbers have chosen the winner and it's An Again! An Again, please contact me on nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com.

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It's 10 days to the release of ANGELS' BLOOD and only 4 till ANGELS'
PAWN!

Here's what Jackie at Literary Escapism had to say about ANGELS' BLOOD!

...Angels’ Blood, is phenomenal...If you’re a fan of Singh’s Psy/Changeling series, then you need to preorder this novel if you haven’t already.

Today's celebrations are going to focus around Blue Diablo by Ann Aguirre! Blue Diablo releases April 7th and kicks off the Corine Solomon series.

Here's the blurb - sounds very intriguing!

Right now, I’m a redhead. I’ve been blonde and brunette as the situation requires, though an unscheduled color change usually means relocating in the middle of the night. So far, I’m doing well here. Nobody knows what I’m running from. And I’d like to keep it that way…

Eighteen months ago, Corine Solomon crossed the border to Mexico City, fleeing her past, her lover, and her “gift”. Corine, a handler, can touch something and know its history—and sometimes, its future. Using her ability, she can find the missing—and that’s why people never stop trying to find her. People like her ex, Chance…

Chance, whose uncanny luck has led him to her doorstep, needs her help. Someone dear to them both has gone missing in Laredo, Texas, and the only hope of finding her is through Corine’s gift. But their search may prove dangerous as the trail leads them into a strange dark world of demons and sorcerers, ghosts and witchcraft, zombies—and black magic…

You can check out an excerpt on Ann's site!

Today's entry question comes from Lili: Which series would you like to see made into a movie/ tv series? And who would you choose to play the main roles?

Answer either part of the question to go into the draw!

Angels' Blood Countdown: Kimberly Frost - Would Be Witch

Winner: The random numbers have spoken again and the winner of Kimberly Frost's Would Be Witch is Jennifer M! Jennifer M, can you please email me at nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com.

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11 days to the release of ANGELS' BLOOD and only 5 till ANGELS' PAWN!

Tonight, we're celebrating with a giveaway of a signed copy of Kimberly Frost's Would Be Witch.

Here's the blurb:

In the small town of Duvall, Texas, the only thing more troublesome than gossip — is magic.

The family magic seems to have skipped Tammy Jo Trask. All she gets in the way of the supernatural are a few untimely visits from the long dead, smart-mouthed family ghost, Edie. But when her locket—an heirloom that happens to hold Edie's soul—is stolen in the midst of a town-wide crime spree, it's time for Tammy to find her inner witch.

After a few experiences in dysfunctional magic, Tammy turns to the only one who can help; the very rich and highly magical, Bryn Lyons. He might have all the answers-and a 007 savoir faire to boot-but the locket isn't the only heirloom passed down in Tammy's family. She also inherited a warning...to stay away from anyone named Lyons.

You can check out an excerpt on Kimberly's website!

Today's entry question comes from Carol: Which fictional heroine do you identify with the
most? My edition to the question - Do you have to like a heroine to enjoy a book? Answer either part in the comments to enter!

Guest Blog - Jennifer Lyon

I'm guest-blogging over at Jennifer Lyon's blog today, talking about Location, location, location! Swing by and say hi :-)

Angels' Blood Countdown: Jory Strong - Ghostland ARC

Winner: The random numbers chose Rebecca Chastain as the winner! An email is on the way to you :-)

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11 days to the release of ANGELS' BLOOD and only 5 till ANGELS' PAWN!

Here's what Katiebabs had to say about ANGELS' BLOOD:

Dark, seductive and mind-blowing are only a few words that come to mind when I think of Angels’ Blood.

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Isn't this cover just gorgeous? Jory Strong's Ghostland, her debut urban fantasy, releases April 7th and I've got an ARC to give away.

Here's the blurb:

In a post-Apocalyptic world where supernaturals have emerged from hiding, wealthy humans delight in decadence while the religious gain power through temptation. For the masses, fear reigns from birth to death, and the afterlife holds beings that only the bravest can summon—or dare to desire…

Taken from her home and family, shamaness Aisling McConaughey has no choice except to enter the “ghostlands” in order to learn the fate of a wealthy man’s mistress. But there is always a price to pay for the use of her power. To save the woman’s life she must summon the Djinn prince Zurael en Caym—and

yield to his savage, sensual rage.

Zurael fears nothing except being called and bound to a human’s will. He intends to kill Aisling after she’s served as bait to find an enemy in possession of an ancient tablet. But the more he tastes of her innocent spirit, the more he’ll use his fiery touch and seductive whispers to keep her hungry for his mercy—even as they weave an erotic spell that he cannot escape…

Powerful forces threaten both their worlds, leaving Aisling and Zurael with an unbearable choice. Follow their hearts…or stay true to their honor and risk losing an eternity of pleasure.

Oooh, that sounds good! You can read an excerpt on Jory's site.

Today's entry question(s) comes from gopher: Can you sell/give away/lend your books? If you do keep your books & make a collection out of them must they be exactly the same? For instance, only hardcovers of a certain height?

Melissa Mayhue Chat & Giveaway

A quick heads up for a chat happening at The Knight Agency chat room 19th Feb, 9pm EST. Author Melissa Mayhue will be talking about her time travelling Daughters of the Glen series. She's also going to be giving away a signed set of her entire series! Follow the links to find out more.

Angels' Blood Countdown: Jennifer St Giles - Kiss of Darkness/Bride of the Wolf ARCs

The random numbers have rolled and the winners are:

Kiss of Darkness - Marie
Bride of the Wolf - Stephanie

Congrats! Please email me at nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com if you don't get an email from me.

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12 days to the release of ANGELS' BLOOD and only 6 till you can get your hands on ANGELS' PAWN!

Here's what Romantic Times BookClub Magazine had to say about ANGELS' BLOOD:

With the launch of a second paranormal series, Singh provides incontrovertible evidence that she's an unrivaled storyteller...This book should be at the top of your must-buy list! Tremendous!

Today, we've got two ARCs to give away thanks to the wonderful Jennifer St Giles!

The first is for Kiss of Darkness, her April release. Blurb below!

A vampire bite has Sheriff Sam Sheridan on the fast track to hell and demons are taking over Twilight Tennessee. He's battling not only to save both his soul and his town, but also his love for one woman, Emerald Linton.

Emerald has a secret that could destroy both her and Sam. She is an angel, and if she can't save Sam from turning evil, then she'll have to kill him, no matter how much of her heart belongs to him.

Sam is determined to take as many demons and vampires down with him as he can and to protect Emerald, but as the seductive dark power in him grows will he condemn Emerald to share his doomed fate, or will they both find a way out of hell.

The second is for Bride of the Wolf, a May release! Here's the blurb (follow the link to read an excerpt):

Injured Blood Hunter Navarre is kidnapped along with oil heiress Marissa Vasquez. Their bid for freedom, puts them into a deadly race for their lives as the become the hunted prey of two Vladarian Vampires and the evil Dr. Cinatas.

Together Marissa and Navarre's spirits form a powerful link matched only by their passion. But can a mortal woman attain true love with a man who is half wolf? Or will thier enemies steal their one chance at happiness?

We're going to pick two winners, one for each ARC, so start rubbing your lucky charm (especially if he's cute *grin)!

Today's entry question is from Lori T: What was the last "new you to author" that you read and what made you choose their book?

Angels' Blood Countdown: Deidre Knight - Red Fire

Winner: The random numbers have chosen Raven99 as the winner of Deidre Knight's Red Fire. An email is on its way to you!

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A mere 13 days till the release of ANGELS' BLOOD and only 7 till ANGELS' PAWN hits the e-shelves!

Today's second awesome giveaway is a signed copy of Red Fire by Deidre Knight!

Here's the blurb:

Eternity has become a prison for Ajax Petrakos. Centuries after he and his Spartan brothers made their bargain for immortality, Ajax struggles to maintain his warrior’s discipline. His only source of strength is his hope that he will soon meet the woman once foretold to him—the other half of his soul, Shay Angel.

Ajax searches for his destined mate on the haunted streets of modern-day Savannah, but he isn’t the first to find her. Shay, the youngest of a powerful demon-hunting clan, can see the monsters that stalk the steamy Southern night—an ability that draws the deadly attention of Ajax’s worst enemy.

As she and Ajax race to solve a chilling prophecy—one that could spell Ajax’s death if they don’t succeed—a fated passion arises, threatening to sweep away everything in its path.

You can read an excerpt on Deidre's website. The next book in the series, Red Kiss comes out June!

Today's entry question comes from Shari C: I think we all have our favorite hero/heroine, but what about a memorable villain. Who do you think has been the meanest and most evil person that you have read about and why?

I'll go with Iago from Shakespeare's Othello. Iago was just so evil - more so because he made himself appear Othello's friend, then betrayed him.

Angels' Blood Countdown: Elizabeth Vaughan - White Star ARC

Winner: The random numbers have spoken and the winner of the Elizabeth Vaughan ARC is Blodeuedd!

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Only 13 days to the release of ANGELS' BLOOD, and 7 to the release of ANGELS' PAWN!

Here's what Darcy, one of the readers who won an ARC had to say about ANGELS' BLOOD:

This series is one of the most original things I've ever read. I've never heard anything close to Nalini's take on angels and vampires, and I'm in love with the rules of this world. The characters are strong and memorable (even the ones you have a love/hate relationship with), the story is extremely intense with all kinds of twists and turns, and the romance is HOT!

...It's a must read!

Today's countdown prize is an ARC of Elizabeth Vaughan's White Star. I haven't had a chance to check out this new series yet, but I loved Ms Vaughan's Warprize!

White Star will release in April this year. Here's the blurb:

The Lady High Priestess Evelyn, known as Evie to her friends, is a healer, dedicated to using her magic in the service of the goddess to aid others and give strength where it is needed.

Orrin Blackheart couldn't be more different. With his black armour, a black name and a blacker reputation, he's been feared and hated in equal parts. So on his defeat and capture in battle, the Goddesses insistence that Evie saves him from a death sentence astonishes them both - as does the growing attraction between them.

But in saving Orrin Evie condemns herself to a prohibition on her magic and a penance posting on the edges of the land, while to retain his salvation Orrin must battle a spreading plague across the land. Fate clearly has plans for them both - but to fulfill them, both must survive the perils ahead.

How gorgeous is that cover?

Today's entry question comes from kh: Which hero would you like to be stranded with on an island?

Chance to win an early copy of ANGELS' BLOOD

Kenda at Lurv A La Mode has put up her (awesome) review of ANGELS' BLOOD as well as an interview with me. There are two copies of ANGELS' BLOOD up for grabs! Her contest closes Feb 22nd.

Angels' Blood Countdown: Veronica Wolff - Sword of the Highlands

Winner: The random numbers have been run and they chose tetewa as the winner! Tetewa, please email me with your address at nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com.

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14 days till the release of ANGELS' BLOOD and 8 till you can get your hands on ANGELS' PAWN!

We're going things historical style this time around, with the prize being a signed copy of Sword of the Highlands from Veronica Wolff.

Here's the blurb:

SHE HAD TO GO BACK IN TIME TO FIND THE MAN OF HER DREAMS...

One minute, she’s New York heiress and art curator Magda Deacon, enraptured by the sexy Scotsman captured in an old portrait. The next, she’s falling through time to 17th century Scotland—and embarking on the most erotic journey of her life…

Infamous playboy James Graham, First Marquis of Montrose, doesn’t know what to make of the strange woman who’s stumbled into his life. Her accent may be foreign, but Magda plays golf and rides like a red-blooded Scotsman—not that James could ever mistake her succulent lips and curves for anything but deliciously female…\

But war rages in the Highlands, the land for which James and his men will lay down their lives. And when Magda faces a terrifying enemy and a daunting choice, only her Scottish hero will be able to set things right…

You can read an excerpt on Veronica's website, as well as the history behind the book.

Today's entry question comes from Renee: When you finish a book, do you dive right into the next one, or ruminate on the one you just read?

Angels' Blood Countdown: Gena Showalter - The Vampire's Bride ARC

Winner: The random numbers chose Danni (comment #14) as the winner. Congratulations! An email's on the way to you.

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14 days to go till the release of ANGELS' BLOOD, and only 8 until the release of ANGELS' PAWN!

Here's what Errant Dreams Reviews had to say about ANGELS' BLOOD:

This is one of those books that so soaked into my pores that I couldn’t get it out of my head for the rest of the day after I’d finished it. I couldn’t open another book for at least a day, as I didn’t want to supplant it yet. I highly recommend this one!

Today's first countdown prize is an ARC of Gena Showalter's The Vampire's Bride, part of her series set in Atlantis! Check out the blurb below:

Return to Gena Showalter’s mythical world of immortals, magic and dark seduction…return to Atlantis…

He is Layel, king of the vampires, a master seducer no woman can deny. But since a rogue horde of dragons killed his beloved over two centuries ago, Layel has existed only for vengeance…until he meets Delilah.

Wary of love, the beautiful Amazon wants nothing to do with the tormented vampire. Yet there’s no denying their consuming desire every time he nears her. Neither trusts the other—nor can they survive alone.

For in an impossible game of the gods’ devising, they’ve been trapped on an island, about to face the ultimate challenge: surrender to the passion that will bind them forever…or be doomed to an eternity apart.

The Vampire's Bride releases March, and you can read more about it on Gena's website!

Today's entry question is from Amy: If you use an e-book reader, which do you use and why? My addition - if you don't use an e-book reader, are you interested in getting one?

Angels' Blood Countdown: Angela Knight - Guardian ARC

Winner: The random numbers have spoken, and the winner of the Guardian ARC is: Ilona! Congratulations!!

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It's 15 days till the release of ANGELS' BLOOD and only 9 days till ANGELS' PAWN hits the e-shelves!!

Here's what Kati Dancy for Romance Novel TV has to say about Angels' Blood:

The new series delivers on every level, building an incredibly complex, dark world..the romance is strong (and very hot), but the character driven world building is the book’s strongest asset. There are a multitude of secondary characters whose stories I’d like to see told, so all I can do is implore Nalini Singh to write faster! I feel sure that I’ll end up re-reading this book over and over waiting for the next entry in the Guild Hunter series.

Onto the extravaganza! We're going to kick it off with the giveaway of an ARC I so want to steal! Guardian is the next book in Angela Knight's fantastic Time Hunters series. (Click on the Angela Knight tag at the bottom of this post to read about Warrior, the first book).

Guardian releases on May 2nd. Here's the blurb:

Riane Arvid is a superhuman cop from the future, trapped in the year 2009 by group of murderous fanatics called the Xeran.

Nick Wyatt is a handsome twentyfirst century warrior who has been a target of the Xeran his entire life. He's the only one Riane can turn to, but his intentions are as mysterious as his origins. In an attempt to discover the truth about each other, both Riane and Nick decide seduction is the best tactic.

Today's entry question comes from Tinuke: Do you sneak peek at the end of the story or are those fighting words?

I admit it, I've been known to peek!

Contest Clues

So for this contest, there are going to be posts up every day, and I'm thinking we should make things interesting and ask everyone to answer a question to enter.

What are some questions you'd like to ask your fellow readers? Here are some I came up with:

• Where do you like to read?
• Do you think breaking the spine of a book is part of reading or is it sacrilege?
• If you could have your wicked way with one paranormal creature, what would you choose?

I need more questions, so suggestions welcome!

And as for those clues...what do Blue Diablo, Riding on Instinct, Magic Strikes, Ghostland, Eve of Darkness, and Nauti Intentions have in common?

Contest Coming Soon...

I'm cooking up a contest to launch the Guild Hunter series. Some very cool prizes...watch this space :-)

Lantern Festival

I went to the Lantern Festival last night - it's held at the end of Chinese New Year celebrations, and every year, the lanterns seem to get more beautiful. I took lots of photos - here are a few.

Click on the image to see a bigger shot.

Sunday Linkage

Fellow RWNZ member Maree Anderson just got her very first cover (from Red Sage). Swing on over and congratulate her.

Another RWNZer and debut author Sandra Hyatt is posting over at the Desirabelles blog - and she's got questions for readers.

Gena Showalter's giving away a signed copy of Jewel of Atlantis.

Author and agent Lucienne Diver is interviewed on My Favorite Author about her new book, Vamped. (Link via The Knight Agency)

Susan Crandall tells her first sale story over on Dear Author.

Saskia Walker has a picture of the boyfriend pillow up on blog. (I know we all secretly want one *g*).

Lynn Viehl is holding a contest to title her next story. And also via the PBW blog - Genreality is holding a First Sale theme week, with stories from Jason Pinter, Lynn Viehl, Alison Kent, Sasha White, and Carrie Vaughn.

Top 10 List: TV Couples

Zara tagged me with this one -check out her list here. I agree with several on her list (including Malcolm & Inara, and Buffy & Angel), but I decided to use the "little gray cells" as Poirot would say and come up with ten new couples for us to discuss.

Oooh, just as I was about working on this, Orannia tagged me, too. Her list is here.

Onto my list - in completely random order.

1. Booth & Temperance

They're smart, they're funny, and they've got that zing between them. I like that they're friends first - everything else comes after. Though if you want to study sexual tension, Bones is the show to watch.
2. Gambit & Rogue (or where Nalini proves her geek credentials)

I used to wake up ridiculously early on Saturday mornings to watch X-Men. Gambit was my favorite. I loved the whole "he can't kiss or touch her or she'll suck out his lifeforce" thing - talk about conflict!

3. Laura Holt & Remington Steele


I loved this show. I would watch reruns if the powers that be decided to put them on. Hmm, I see a similarity to Temperance and Booth - Laura and Remington are also a smart & funny couple. But they had they own unique chemistry going on.

4. Allison & Joe

They're so normal and real, and yet the love between them is not something you ever question. One of my favorite episodes is when Joe thinks something has happened to Allison, and when they find her, he literally falls on his knees and just holds her.

5. Spike and Buffy
Okay, I know I said I liked Angel and Buffy, but I also kind of have a soft spot for Spike, too.

6. Wash & Zoe

I liked that these two were in love and so settled about it (ignore the other two guys in the picture *grin*). There were no huge scenes, but you knew they'd do anything for each other. (p.s. you that that thing that happens in Serenity? I've wiped it from my memory).

7. JD & Turk

A million reasons, including - The World's Most Giant Doctor and Hide the Saltine. I miss Scrubs.

8. Charlie & Amita Two really smart people, with a great relationship! I like how at the start, Charlie is the more shy of the pair.

9. Elizabeth & Darcy

You didn't think I was going to miss Lizzie and Darcy out? In NZ, they played the original tv series one episode every Sunday. I sat through six torturous weeks to see these two get their happy ending!

10. Mulder & SkullyChemistry among creepiness!

I think a lot of people have already been tagged with this, so I'm throwing it open to anyone who wants to play. Who are your favorites?

Twitter

I couldn't help it. I want to know what everyone's talking about. I am now on Twitter.

Writing

I've started work on the next Guild Hunter book, currently titled Angel's Kiss. I was happily surprised to open the file and realize I already had over 50 pages. Woohoo!

What're you all up this week?

OOTB Tour: The Warlord's Daughter - Susan Grant

Check out the first OOTB tour of the year :-)

THE WARLORD’S DAUGHTER by Susan Grant
HQN Books, FEB 1, 2009

The war is finally over. But Wren's life is in tatters. The only living offspring of the notorious Drakken Warlord, her genes could very well start a new dynasty of terror. And the Coalition can't have that.

She alone holds the key to finding a legendary treasure. Having seen enough bloodshed, shy, petite Wren vows to destroy it before anyone, Drakken, Coalition or Earth, can get their hands on it - but she'll need help.

The Drakken's ruthless evil turned Aral toward the Coalition years ago. War is all he knows, until he finds passion and love in the most unlikely of women - the Warlord's Daughter. But will trusting each other with their secrets risk not only their hearts, but their lives?

Excerpt: http://www.susangrant.com/books/warlord.htm#excerpt
Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tDCKOZX-KY

ABOUT SUSAN GRANT

RITA award winner and NY Times best-selling author Susan Grant loves writing about what she knows: flying, adventure, and the often unpredictable interaction between men and women! When she’s not writing science fiction-romances, Susan pilots 747 jumbo jets to China, Australia, Europe, and many other exotic overseas destinations where she finds plenty of material for her novels.

REVIEWS

"It was SO good. It was wonderful to watch Wren's growth from an uncertain scared young lady into a determined heroine strong enough to be a battlelord hero's woman."-- Kathy's Review Corner

"Grant’s forte is her superbly-drawn and well-developed characters. Her heroes are just the most gorgeously-drawn and sensitive men." --JaceScribbles

Website: http://www.susangrant.com
http://www.the-borderlands.com

Deep and meaningful poll

Sunday Linkage

In case you haven't seen this yet, Harlequin is offering free downloads of 16 books as part of it's 60th anniversary celebrations. They've got a whole range of books from Desire, to Suspense, to Steeple Hill, so make sure to check it out.

Ilona Andrews is running a contest to give away an ARC of Magic Strikes (which I might possibly already have *evil grin*) - all you have to do is spread the word that the writing team of Ilona Andrews (Ilona and Gordon), will be at Opusfest, March 13th to 15th. Click on the link for more info.

Meljean Brook is giving away a copy of Carolyn Jewel's Scandal. You have till Sunday night to enter.

p.s. If anyone asks, I was not on the interwebs today.