Archives for January 2020

The Nixon Tapes: 1971-1972 by Douglas Brinkley and Luke Nichter


The Nixon Tapes:1971-1972 by Douglas Brinkley and Luke Nichter
Publisher: Mariner Books
Genre: Non-Fiction, Politics
Length: Full Length (797 pages)
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

These are the famous—and infamous—Nixon White House tapes that reveal for the first time President Richard Milhous Nixon uncensored, unfiltered, and in his own words.

President Nixon’s voice-activated taping system captured every word spoken in the Oval Office, Cabinet Room, other key locations in the White House, and at Camp David—3,700 hours of recordings between 1971 and 1973. Yet less than five percent of those conversations have ever been transcribed and published. Now, thanks to historian Luke Nichter’s massive effort to digitize and transcribe the tapes, the world can finally read an unprecedented account of one of the most important and controversial presidencies in US history.
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This volume of The Nixon Tapes offers a selection of fascinating scenes from the period in which Nixon opened relations with China, negotiated the SALT I arms agreement with the Soviet Union, and won a landslide reelection victory. All the while, the growing shadow of Watergate and Nixon’s political downfall crept ever closer. The Nixon Tapes provides a never-before-seen glimpse into a flawed president’s hubris, paranoia, and political genius.

The real story of Nixon, from the man himself.

Ever wonder what Nixon thought while he was in the White House? Ever wonder what he talked about? The transcripts are in and they are fascinating.

I’ve done a lot of reading into political events and this book, The Nixon Tapes, certainly tells a vivid story. Nixon isn’t just recalling events. These are his words.

Readers wanting to understand what went on during the turbulent White House years of Nixon’s life will want to read this book. It’s history right in front of the reader and not to be missed. I understood where Nixon was coming from with Watergate, even if I didn’t agree with him. I understood his paranoia, too. He had a plan and wanted the plan executed. The cosmos had other ideas. This book made Nixon more human and relatable.

If you’re looking for a long book (yes, this is long and will take some time to read) that’s gripping and will make you think, then this might be the one for you.

Wire by Harley Wylde


Wire: Bad Boys by Harley Wylde
Dixie Reapers 13
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short Story (138 Pages)
Other: M/F, Anal Play, spanking
Rating: 4 Stars
Reviewed by Sorrel

When my past came knocking, I wasn’t expecting it to arrive in such a tempting package.

Lavender — My parents weren’t the type to win any awards, but I did learn a few things. Like how to read lines of code and get through the backdoor of pretty much any site or program. I also learned about the man my mother dated when she’d met my dad, someone who has intrigued me for years. I never thought I’d get the chance to meet him, until my parents end up dead and I can’t think of anyone else who might be able to help. I know too much. My parents’ death wasn’t an accident, and now I’ve been targeted. If the infamous Voodoo Tracer can’t help me, then I’m screwed.

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Wire — I never really expected my past to come knocking at the front gates, nor did I expect it to be in such a sexy package. Lavender isn’t what I’d call a siren, but with her glasses perched on her nose, her messy hair, curvy figure, and adorable tees, she’s exactly what I want and don’t need. A nerdy, geeky, super intelligent woman who craves me as much as I crave her. So I did what any man would do… I claimed her. Now she’s mine, and if an enemy from my past thinks he can hurt her, I’d like to see him try. He might have killed her parents, but I will destroy anyone who tries to take her from me.

“So this is the infamous Dark Labyrinth.”

Wire is a hacker (aka Voodoo Tracer) and so is Lavender (aka Dark Labyrinth). I have been looking forward to reading his story for some time. And what a story.

This is the 13th book in an exciting series.  I was expecting action and a lot of it, but this is Wire’s story so action quota is down but not completely out. I loved this pair. There couldn’t have been a better partner for Wire. They do have an age gap and it shows a bit with Lavender. I loved listening them talk cyber, hacker talk. It was fascinating especially when you realize that they have chemistry.

There is a backstory that goes back long before Lavender was born. It was easy to understand. Both Lavender and Wire have a past that was entwined together and has brought both of them together for better or for worse.

Their chemistry and relationship–when you put that together with the other brothers and their old ladies, yeah, it seems like a story in itself. It made me smile, laugh, cry and everything in between. However, I should add: there are scenes of violence.

This is a fun, fiery, sexy, bloody and a story that will give you a whole range of emotions.

Pierced by Sean Michael


Pierced by Sean Michael
Nailz, Book 1
Publisher: Self-published
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full length (170 pages)
Other: BDSM, M/M, Anal Play, Toys
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Fern

Welcome to Nailz, a tattoo and piercing parlor where the staff support each other fiercely.

Several years ago, piercer Will had his heart and trust broken by the man who was supposed to love and care for him best—his Dom. Still a sub at heart, he’s nonetheless taken a vow to stay away from Doms. Doing so hasn’t really been that much of a hardship, but then Rick—who is all Dom—walks into the shop.
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Rick’s a successful, confident man, who also happens to be a Dom. While he’s experienced, he’s never found the right man to take on as a permanent sub, as a lover—he’s never found his sub. Then he walks into Nailz to get his nipples pierced and everything changes.

The attraction between the two men is immediate and undeniable, but while Rick recognizes the potential they have together and is ready to explore it, Will doesn’t know if he can let go of his past to grab hold of a future with Rick.

Will had been badly hurt by his previous Master and after starting to recover from the break-up had a firm “no Doms” rule. When Rick walks through Will’s doors looking for some nipple piercings Will can tell immediately that the chemistry between them is smoking hot and totally mutual. The only problem is Rick is clearly a Master through and through and Will isn’t sure he’s ready for that level of hurt again.

I really enjoyed this full length story. While on one level the story is absolutely revolving around Will and Rick getting to know each other and exploring their new relationship and the BDSM lifestyle, there is so much emotion and subtleties going on I really feel the story is so much more than that. I found a strong current throughout the book about two people learning to bounce back from pain and learning to trust again, to explore their own needs and desires. While there’s plenty of hot sex – and some of it pretty kinky to boot – I was delighted to find there is a strong element equaling this kink and heat of learning to trust again, to listening to your intuition and being strong enough to reach out and grab what you want.

As the title and blurb clearly indicates, there is plenty in the story about the BDSM lifestyle, about various piercings, toys and non-traditional elements, but I was really glad that even though these are all quite prominent, I strongly feel they weren’t added for shock value or to simply amp up the kink-value of the story. Will is clearly into the lifestyle and I found this aspect of the story to be tastefully written and clearly added with care. It won’t suit all readers, but I’d strongly urge readers intrigued or wanting to dab a toe into these sorts of literary waters would find this an interesting, realistic and tasteful place to start.

I also absolutely loved the very strongly written secondary characters. I have a definite feel that they will be highlighted in future stories – and I am eagerly waiting for just that. These characters – Kel and Nick in particular – added a lot of value to Will and Rick’s story, being supportive and needed in Will’s self-discovery and personal care. I was pleased how much Will’s friends added to his story and grew quite attached to them all.

Sexy and steamy with a delicious streak of kink running through it – this was a brilliant book and one I eagerly devoured. I can’t wait for the next installment.

A Stitch In Time by Asta Idonea


A Stitch In Time by Asta Idonea
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Genre: Contemporary, Holiday
Length: Short story (24 pages)
Other: M/M
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Fern

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Connor had let his best friend talk him into learning to crotchet, but he hadn’t found it easy to pick up. Joining a class at the local community centre, Connor ends up trying the group project, and meets Finn when their paths crossed in the building. Can the two men find some common ground?

I enjoyed this interesting and fast paced short story. Most of the build up between Connor and Finn was the two men exchanging quick pleasantries (and eyeballing each other) while passing like ships in the night. The instant chemistry and connection though had both men eager to explore more and thus finally leads them onto a date. I was a little disappointed at just how pear-shaped that date went – though to be honest it came across to me as extremely realistic, Finn’s massive over-reaction and Connor’s stumbling incoherence really could be something virtually everyone has personally experienced before. So I felt really mixed about how most of the middle of the story turned out. While I enjoyed the fact it was realistic, I also found it a little sad and deflating to read in a fictional and romantic short story.

Thankfully, both Finn and Connor managed to work through the confusion and over-reaction (with a healthy dose of reality from a wonderfully kind-hearted old lady!) and I really enjoyed how the story ended on a high note between the two men. I also liked how while definitely Christmassy, that aspect of the story wasn’t over-done or pushed too hard. It had the warmth and feeling of a good Christmas story, but without a lot of the usual craziness that comes with those styles of stories.

Fun and realistic, this was a good story. It is incredibly sweet – not even a chaste kiss between the two men – but it’s clear they plan to begin a fresh and exciting new romantic relationship together so I’d classify this as a happily ending story.

Snack Regimen While Writing by Andrew Grey – Guest Blog

Long and Short Reviews welcomes Andrew Grey who is celebrating today’s release of Fire and Oxyx, the fifth book in his Carlisle Deputies series.

When I’m working I have a really strange snack regimen. First thing, I usually have a bottle or a can of caffeine free Diet Coke. Lately I’ve really tried to cut back on the stuff and drink more water. Mainly because my husband brings up glasses of water when I’m working. Its his subtle reminder. For my snacks, I love white cheddar cheesy crackers. See I’m lactose intolerant and can’t eat most dairy products. I’ve developed this craving for cheese and, for a party a while back, he brought some of these crackers and I ate all of the leftovers. Bless his heart, he bought some more. Now I have a bowl of them near where I’m working and I pop a few crackers every now and then. It gives me the taste of cheese without any of the bad after effects that I’m not going to talk about.

Another writing snack that I really like is caramel corn. It’s a real favorite too. Chocolate is also at the top of the list of snacks that I will eat until I can’t see straight. Come to think of it, there are lots of snacks that I really love, and it’s a miracle that I’m not as big as a house because I have no will power at all. I hope you have a great day. I’m about to get to work and need to go get some crackers.

Undercover sheriff’s deputy Evan Whittaker is close to infiltrating a vicious local gang. He just needs to find an opening. Instead, he finds Wes Douglas, a web designer who is raising his irresponsible brother’s son. Wes agrees to help with a stakeout, but he pays the price when his home is destroyed in a shootout.

Evan’s always been a loner, but when he invites Wes into his home, living together feels right, and the two men only grow closer as they adapt to each other’s lives and rhythms. A future as a family looks brighter by the day, but all of that could collapse when Wes’s brother—and his connection to the drug dealers—crashes into the life they’re carefully building.

Enjoy an Except

“Blocking a public sidewalk, causing an obstruction. You most certainly did. Littering, creating a public disturbance—do I need to go on? I will, and the more I talk, the deeper the trouble you ‘brain surgeons’ are going to be in.” The deputy looked past the four guys. “Are you and the baby okay?”

“Yes.” Wes’s voice seemed so small in comparison to the deputy’s. “We’re fine. Thank you.”

The deputy took all the guys’ names from their IDs and put the pad back in his pocket. “I suggest you call the department tomorrow to see what charges are going to be filed. Now move along and be courteous to other people.”

Wes suppressed a smile as the guys lost their swagger and their shoulders slumped. It was a beautiful thing to see them taken down a peg.

“We were just walking,” Mark, the leader and the only one with any guts, said.

“Well, I have your names and addresses. I’ll check you all out and if you so much as step out of line again, I’ll be there to make you wish you had never been born. What kind of person forces someone walking a baby off the sidewalk?”

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“It seems you aren’t very popular.” The deputy pulled out his phone and made a call to request a background check on each of them. It was funny to see them sweat, and Wes half expected them to make a run for it. “Go on home and explain to your parents what you’ve done and to expect a call.” He tilted his head, and the guys hurried away, turning back and then walking faster out of there. “Are you really okay?” This time he broke into a smile, and dang, it was electric.

“Yes. They’re jerks but largely harmless.” Greyson was getting fussy and wanted to go. Wes rolled the stroller back and forth to generate some movement.

“What’s his name?” the deputy asked.

“Greyson,” Wes answered, and the deputy leaned over the stroller.

“You’re going to be a handsome boy, aren’t you?” he said in a baby voice, and Greyson grinned, actually reaching for the deputy’s hand. “Wow, now that’s a smile.” He straightened back up. “I’ll let you get back to your walk, but you have a nice evening.” The deputy smiled at him again and then continued down the sidewalk.

Wes stood, watching him go, and told himself not to stare at the way the deputy’s jeans clung to his perfect backside. He actually groaned and then turned away. The last thing he needed was to be caught ogling.

About the Author: Andrew grew up in western Michigan with a father who loved to tell stories and a mother who loved to read them. Since then he has lived throughout the country and traveled throughout the world. He has a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and works in information systems for a large corporation.

Andrew’s hobbies include collecting antiques, gardening, and leaving his dirty dishes anywhere but in the sink (particularly when writing) He considers himself blessed with an accepting family, fantastic friends, and the world’s most supportive and loving partner. Andrew currently lives in beautiful, historic Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

Amazon Author Page | Barnes and Noble Page | Dreamspinner Press | Facebook | Facebook Group | Goodreads | Twitter | Website

Buy the book at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or Dreamspinner Press.

 

Bulb by Bradley Wind


Bulb by Bradley Wind
Publisher: Self Published
Genre: Science Fiction
Length: Full Length (360 pgs)
Rated: 4 stars
Review by Rose

If light records everything we do, can even shadows hide our secrets?

Imagine your entire life is available for review.

Imagine each day any event can be watched over and over again – your birth, your first kiss, your recent shower, that private itch – all replayable from any angle. Now imagine these can be viewed by anyone at any time.
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Is a world where there is far less ego, little crime, and even the smallest moments are recorded and available publicly through the ‘Grand Archive’ a Utopia or a Dystopia? Traumatized by memories he does not want to recall, artist Ben Tinthawin is recruited by the enigmatic, Grand Archive creator Dr. Mamon, who seeks help for his nextgen designs to enhance the world. Ben stumbles across a secret revealing the doctor’s true scheme in all its surreal splendor and questions whether the doctor really is the benevolent soul he claims to be.As the paths of a broken man and a brilliant revolutionary cross, the world shifts and cracks start to appear. Even our most fundamental codes can be encrypted – or corrupted. If the wrong information is discovered, more than Ben’s life will be in danger of total shut down.

Prepare yourself for full exposure.

Bulb is an intriguing book- often surrealistic, often off-putting, always interesting. The concept of no privacy and people being able to look back on their own life (or yours) is scary– but altogether believable, which is even scarier. It did take me a bit to get into it (the first few chapters were confusing) but once I got further into the book, I really enjoyed it.

There are very interesting premises here, and the descriptions of the future are intriguing. The author has a gift for language I quite appreciate. There was some disjointedness in the actions, which lends itself to the surrealistic qualities. Definitely a book I want to go back and revisit.

I’m intrigued by the Faux Life Movement, where people rebel against the society as it is and have the ability to stay “off grid” in a way by finding a way to conceal their real identity and take on fake identities. It reminds me a bit of the book people in Farenheit 451 who have their own way of rebelling against the banning of books.

This is not a book one can skim through, but I think it is definitely worth the time to read it. If you aren’t put off by a book that goes off in tangents and isn’t strictly linear, give this book a try. Beware, it’s not a book to read and watch television at the same time… it’s a book that demands your full attention…but it’s so worth it in the end. Thanks, Mr. Wind. I’ll be looking out for more of your work.

American Kingfish Association by Charles Darner


American Kingfish Association by Charles Darner
Tournament Fishing and Piracy on Florida’s First Coast

Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full length (348 pages)
Heat Level: Sweet
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

American Kingfish Association is a crime thriller set around tournament fishing and missing boats. Even though this is fiction, as with any good fishing story, there underlines some truth. As fishing stories go, AKA could be about that one that got away or was the one captured in the net.

Jarratt Summer is an avid Kingfish tournament fisherman. He has combined his love of fishing and the sea with his work at American Marine Insurance. Jarratt is on a personal quest to become a winner on Florida’s First Coast king fishing circuit. His goal is to earn a place at the Kingfish Super Bowl Tournament being held in St Lucie, FL. With the unexpected death of a co-worker, Jarratt is promoted to SIU/ Special Investigative Unit. Once here, Jarratt uncovers schemes for filing false insurance claims along with other schemes to bilk money from his employer. Jarratt attempts to put the pieces of the scheme together while avoiding being entrapped or worse killed.

I predict the author, Charles Darner, is going to be on the number one New York Times Bestsellers list. It’s only a matter of time before he gets the recognition. American Kingfish Association is his first book but no one would ever guess that. The writing style is remarkable. I can say this because I haven’t the first clue about fishing of any kind. After reading this story about the Kingfish tournament, I am intrigued to learn more.
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I was riveted to my seat when the “reel’s clicker went off”. I didn’t know what a reel clicker was but I could feel the adrenaline running through the crew as they went through the process of bringing the fish in. I was just as disappointed as the characters when the line broke. It takes talent to write a book that consistently made me feel like I was with the characters every step of the way. It’s a greater talent when I didn’t feel lost or bored with all the details since I hadn’t a clue about the subject matter. From the description I was able to visualize the reel clicker as part of the rising rod that they crank to bring the fish in.

It is really important to make clear that this is not a “how to fish” book. This is an action/thriller, “hold on to your seat because you have no idea what is going to happen next”, type of novel. My son is the one that encouraged me to give this book a try. As a rule, it’s not the type of book I’d typically choose to read but I honestly couldn’t put it down! I read it in two days because it was that good. My preferred genre is romance, so I am pleased to tell you that there was a small romance with the leading character, Jarratt Summer, tucked in with the action.

Jarratt, Charlie, Adam and Sarah are the main characters. Together they make up the crew that wants to win the Kingfish tournament. There’s quite a varied cast of characters threaded throughout the plot, all of whom are well-developed. Their characterization is effective enough to make me believe the bad guys are truly bad. As for the good guys, I am not able to pick a favorite but I’d lean heavily on choosing Charlie as my favorite. He’s the kind of friend I’d want to have in my life.

The synopsis shared some exciting elements that might be intriguing to a reader but it’s important that I highlight that I found this novel unique. First, my interest was piqued by, “Jarratt attempts to put the pieces of the scheme together while avoiding being entrapped or worse, killed”. I was pleasantly surprised by the author’s vivid imagination and how he engaged my full attention. Second, he demonstrated a skill with words that was creative, making this novel a highly entertaining read and hard for me to put down. It’s a challenge to interest and involve a reader who knows next to nothing about the subject matter, yet delivers a solid and well-rounded story that reels in a reader like it did me. Pun intended *G*.

The plot flowed smoothly from beginning to end carrying me along on an anxiety provoking ride. There were moments I felt scared, happy or disappointed, and there was one time I even laughed. I was mostly invested in figuring how in the heck Jarratt was going to get out of the mess he got himself into.

The most exciting thing about this book isn’t that all the plot threads were tied up the way I like it, which is super important to me, but that the story cleverly hints there might be a sequel! I am very excited about that because I loved this book. In fact, I’m going to buy one for my dad for Father’s day and for my nephew for his birthday. They both love to fish and would enjoy all the action since they both love thriller/action/adventure movies. In fact, I won’t be surprised if this becomes a blockbuster someday.

I enthusiastically recommend reading American Kingfish Association! It definitely “hooked” me.

But What if I Don’t Understand? by C.P. Siebenhuener


But What if I Don’t Understand? by C.P. Siebenhuener
Publisher: Book Publishers Network
Genre: Contemporary, Children’s
Length: Short story (21 pages)
Age Recommendation: 6+
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Honeysuckle

But What If I Don’t Understand? introduces us to an adorable little girl who learns the very important lesson of honesty, communication and self confidence. Author C.P. Siebenhuener interestingly depicts a child’s insecurity and fear of admitting to not always understanding what is being taught in school and demonstrates how Danielle’s mom lovingly and patiently explains the importance of asking questions and having the confidence to ask for help. A wonderful and educational story for all ages!

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For my daughter, it was always math and for my sons, it was always reading but my suggestion on how to deal with what they didn’t understand was always the same. Ask questions. That’s what I liked about this simple short story. The mother doesn’t try to take on the role of the teacher, she doesn’t make excuses for the child, she doesn’t make the child feel unintelligent for not doing well on one test. She gives her sound advise that teaches her to take responsibility for her work and to learn good communication skills and she does this by example.

The mom in the story doesn’t get over agitated and stress out the already anxious child. Instead, she calmly sits down and gives her time to explain what she, Danielle, feels went wrong with this particular assignment. I loved that Mom didn’t make the child feel worse about a situation that had already put a sad face on the child’s day. The age of the child in the book isn’t disclosed but she looks to be about ten. That’s a very impressionable age.

While most parents will agree that sometimes children will run into a teacher who doesn’t like to repeat themselves, most (especially elementary age) teachers want to help. They want to know what the children don’t understand so they can address it. The Mom in this story points out that there are other children in the class who may not have grasped the concepts either who would have benefited from the teacher explaining again, maybe in a different way.

This story felt like many of the conversations that I’ve had with my own children and is very good advise for parents who may not be sure how to calm and advise a child who’s having difficulties in school. I highly recommend this short tutorial. Be sure to read the last page. It puts a very nice bit of closure on Danielle’s story.

Setting For Eight, Dinner For Two by B.G. Thomas


Setting For Eight, Dinner For Two by B.G. Thomas
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Genre: Contemporary, Holiday
Length: Short story (81 pages)
Other: M/M
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Fern

To overcome the bad ending of a relationship, Charlie Brooks and a friend plan to decorate his home for the holidays—including elaborate table settings like those made by local ceramicist Tory Phillips. The pieces are exquisite, but Charlie’s on a budget. So Tory convinces him to take his classes and try his hand at making his own dishes for the dinner party Charlie dreams of hosting. As they work together, they grow closer, and the fantasy gathering feels less important than what’s happening between them. When the big day arrives, it might be more magical than Charlie ever imagined.

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I found this to be a really fun and happy, Christmassy story. I enjoyed the chemistry and connection that happened almost instantly between Charlie and Tory and was also pleased they didn’t fall into insta-lust or just simply jump into bed with each other. Charlie is still pretty burned out from his ex and Tory is quite a bit younger than him so it’s not an easy path for them to come together. Charlie, in particular, felt to my mind to get caught up in his own inner thoughts and musings a fair bit and second (and even third) guess himself so when Tory offered to help Charlie make some napkin rings in Tory’s ceramics class it was the perfect opportunity for the two men to spend some time together without awkwardness or strings.

I felt that Charlie’s inner conversations slowed the pace of the story somewhat, and the author had a very chatty style of writing with lots of self-musings and sentences where the characters train of thought would get interrupted. I can’t help but feel this style of writing won’t appeal to all readers as it can feel a little jarring and jump around, and I personally found the pace was just a little slow with the frequent feeling of interruptions between Charlie and Tory getting to know each other. That said, both men were interesting and well drawn characters and I enjoyed watching them circle each other and try to find their way together.

I really enjoyed how the chemistry sizzled between Charlie and Tory. Despite the fact both men were unsure the attraction and connection between them simply couldn’t be denied. I really liked how with more interactions and meeting together at the pottery sales and classes helped both Charlie and Tory not only spend more time together but grow more comfortable with each other. While there’s no explicit sexual intimacy I adored how Charlie and Tory definitely both got their happy ending. It made all the chemistry and slow build up between them totally worthwhile to my mind.

Fun and happy, this is a lovely short Christmas story.

Racing the Whirlwind by January Bain – Spotlight and Giveaway

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. January Bain will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Book three in the TETRAD Group series

Alysia has spent the last ten years avoiding relationships, but the night her life implodes, she meets Nick. Now all bets are off.

Haunted by her past, Alysia’s desperate for answers. She needs Nick and the group sworn to aid those unable to go to the law for help, because TETRAD will do what law enforcement cannot or will not—believe her when she says she knows who’s after her.

My name is Nick Wheeler and I’m with TETRAD, where I use my unusual skillset to best advantage. But what I didn’t expect is to become involved with a trauma nurse, or for it to become so deadly, with the stakes rising hour by hour.

I’m Alysia Rossini. One look at Nick Wheeler and I know he’s the one to help me forget the past. But is it fair to expose him to such danger? And will I live long enough for the chance to be with him?

Enjoy an Excerpt

Alysia Rossini peered through the windshield of her Dodge RAM at the weather, which was growing fouler by the second. Her hands were clamped so tight to the steering wheel that her knuckles ached. The painted lines delineating the watery pavement had long vanished. Desperate to keep the vehicle on the road, she leaned in closer to the dash, her clothes damp and clammy from the perspiration that trickled down her spine. She had the wipers cranked to their highest setting, yet they were unable to keep up with the deluge of sleeting rain lashing the thick glass in heavy gusts. Her stomach churned with worry and the terrible sense of foreboding disquiet that had crept in during the hour-long journey, fueled by her intense isolation.

The hazy, gray, uncaring Cascade Mountains stretched out for hundreds of kilometers in all directions, looking like a distant planet. Driving home alone made Alysia hesitant to pull over. It was just as easy to get rear-ended on this treacherous highway as not. And that vehicle following behind was stalking too damn close. The driver needed their fucking head examined.

A few more tense kilometers inched by, Alysia clenching her hands tight to the wheel and flicking her glance at the rear-view mirror every few seconds. Her reduced speed kept her from hydroplaning the four-wheel-drive truck but increased the length of time with the idiot on her tail.

Finally, the squall began to ease, the lights of the vehicle behind her becoming more than just two white eyes glaring through the mist. Rolling her head from side to side, she worked to loosen the tenseness of her shoulders. The harsh reality of her twenty-four-hour work day followed by a visit with her friend Kate flashed through her mind, bringing with it added sadness and desperation—and an even more acute sense of isolation.

She shook her head, trying to shake the memories free. Reliving a nightmare loop never solved a damn thing. What she needed most was a drink. Ease from the pain of the job and Kate’s devastating illness. Thank goodness it wasn’t far to the gas station. She sped up, pressing her foot down on the pedal. The lights of the forecourt beckoned just ahead, sanctuary in a storm.

Oh, God no. The SUV following too damn close fishtailed in her rear-view mirror. It swayed side to side in a macabre dance, jerking back and forth like an artful pickpocket escaping the hands of justice. In slow motion, Alysia took in the horror of the vehicle beginning its death roll. It spun out of control, end over end, then came to rest on the side of the highway, belching billows of smoke.

About the Author:

January Bain has wished on every falling star, every blown-out birthday candle, and every coin thrown in a fountain to be a storyteller. To share the tales of high adventure, mysteries, and full blown thrillers she has dreamed of all her life. The story you now have in your hands is the compilation of a lot of things manifesting itself for this special series. Hundreds of hours spent researching the unusual and the mundane have come together to create books that features strong women who live life to the fullest, wild adventures full of twists and unforeseen turns, and hot complicated men who aren’t afraid to take risks. She can only hope her stories will capture your imagination.

If you are looking for January Bain, you can find her hard at work every morning without fail in her office with her furry baby, Ling Ling. And, of course, she’s married to the most romantic man! Who once famously remarked to her inquiry about buying fresh flowers for their home every week, “Give me one good reason why not?” Leaving her speechless and knocking her head against the proverbial wall for being so darn foolish. She loves flowers.

If you wish to connect in the virtual world she is easily found on Facebook. Oh, and she loves to talk books…

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Buy the book at Amazon or Barnes and Noble.

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