Grand Finale: THE CERTAIN HOPE by @EC_Jackson #Giveaway w/ @PrismBookTours Check out the Tour!!

On Tour with Prism Book Tours


Book Tour Grand Finale for
The Certain Hope
By E. C. Jackson

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Author Interview

What is your motivation behind The Certain Hope? Why did you want to write it?

The Certain Hope is the third book in the standalone hope-themed series. Book three highlights thirty-something love, which can be as precarious as younger love. By that age, we’ve weathered numerous life storms. Living life can, and often does, alter our opinions, circumstances and outlook.


The doorbell chimed what she termed his signature ring: one long peal, followed by two shorter ones. Saying goodbye might ruin her. Hair patted into place, she opened the door with an unsteady hand.

Andy leaned on the rail, watching the door fling open. The six men who worked with him stood at his side. Silence reigned. They stood there, grinning at her.

Tara couldn’t resist returning the smiles. Their noisy camaraderie while they worked would be missed.

Brooke Blogs - Excerpt

The house needed only a minor overhaul. He was the man for the task if he was able to buy the place. Luke enjoyed restoring old houses. Especially one he hoped to make his own. As he’d climbed the steps, he was assessing the fair market value.

Then Tara had opened the door.

Luke had fallen in love on sight.


Uplifting Reads - Excerpt

“So you prefer dating a man who works at McDonald’s?” Marcie asked.

Mindy laughed until she coughed.

Giggles erupted around the table.

“Tara would if his name was Andy,” Mindy finally said.

Tara batted dream-filled eyes. “I love a man I’ll never see again.” She paused, eyeing Mindy. “Honest enough for you?”


Tara’s hopeful nonchalance intrigued Luke more than it ever had. He’d finally found his sassy, laidback lady that would love him. She was a snappy work of art he couldn’t resist. Her projected innocence snagged him the first time they met.

Things are moving in the right direction. How do I bring my lovely lady along for the journey?

Before long, Olivia took a much-needed breath. The lull in the conversation reminded him about the other people in the room. He leaned his mouth close to Tara’s ear while speaking in a stage voice.


"The Certain Hope is a story of love at first sight and I really enjoyed it. . . . This was a unique story that showed the positives and negatives of falling in love so quickly and throws in a few surprise twists as well. This was my first book by author Jackson and I look forward to more of her stories."

Wishful Endings - Excerpt

“Your sad eyes don’t sway me.” Her hip butted him out the way. “It’s too late to show remorse. You set me up.”

Luke raised three fingers. “Scout’s honor. I had no expectations either way. The choice was always yours.” His voice softened as his gaze caressed her face. “Beautiful as always.”

Tara steeled herself against the compliment. Real facts deserved more than a passing remark that missed the point.


"Overall, I did enjoy the story. For me, Luke’s personality caused me to want to keep reading, because I wanted to find out what happens with the two. . . . And I feel Ms. Jackson does an excellent job of weaving the issues together so the plot runs so smooth. This is the second book I’ve read from Ms. Jackson, and I enjoy her writing. So I encourage you to check out The Certain Hope as well as other books by this author."

Remembrancy - Review

"...there are stories of love-at-first-sight marriages that are going strong, so even if it’s not your reality, it is entertaining. And may also serve as a cautionary tale to not jump into anything too quickly, especially if the people you trust are conflicted about your decision. And through it all, I was cheering for Tara’s happily-ever-after."

Simply Kelina - Review

"Should you read it? YES! I still recommend it, especially if you love a good romance. I am actually really interested in reading some of the authors other works as I did enjoy it overall."


The vase received a place of honor above the fireplace while the open chocolate box tempted them on the cocktail table. A faint disinfectant scent lingered in the air. Luke always found a faultless house when he visited. It was the perfect backdrop for his prim and proper miss. “Are you a true neat freak, or will stuff drop on my head if I open a closet door? I vote neat freak.”

“We’re simpatico. Guests can eat off your floors.” Tara nestled into the arm Luke draped around her shoulder. “Mmm. I like sitting close to you. How was your day?”

“It’s over. I’d rather discuss us.”

Colorimetry - Excerpt

This family has a fixation with that woman. “I’m a free man. I can date whomever I choose.”

“The grapevine says she’ll arrive in St. Louis on Friday. A month earlier than planned. Guess she didn’t accept your answer.”

Luke chuckled. “Now she knows that proposing to a disinterested man has consequences. Besides, holding false expectations is a character flaw I hate.”


". . . an entertaining read if you enjoy romance. . . . better suited to those who like Insta-love, since that’s basically the premise of the relationship. It’s a Lifetime movie in print."


Tara joined the line of cars headed from the park. Her haggard brain was ready for a nap. Approximately fifty buses stood between her car and the road home. She drummed her fingers on the steering wheel, instead of succumbing to what she really desired to do. Her mind hankered to blow the horn until reaching Kingshighway. Sort of a celebration cheer and “get out of the way” rant combined in one.

The relaxing evening she imagined with Luke fueled her determination to hurry home. Next on the agenda was a marvelous dinner. The legwork was prepared that morning. She only had to pop the casserole into the oven and prepare a salad.


"The Certain Hope is a story of hope, love and faith. . . . I am giving The Certain Hope five plus stars. I recommend it for readers who love a beautifully, well written and clean stories. I believe it is a must read and I highly recommend it. I would love to read more like this one by EC Jackson in the future."

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

While drying dishes, Tara jumped as soap suds hit her face. She spun around when Luke laughed, right before lobbing another soap ball at her. She ducked. Only trickles of water dusted her hair.

Her reflexes immediately kicked in. The water pitcher was in her hand before thinking better of her next move. The shock on Luke’s face stilled her hand. He was soaked. Water slid from his hair, and over his body, until it streamed across the floor.

“Oops! Blame yourself and not me,” she yelled, charging past him.

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post, if you haven't already...

The Certain Hope
(Hope Series #3)
By E. C. Jackson
Christian Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 318 Pages
December 5th 2018

Love at first sight. It’s every girl’s dream. But Tara Simpkins is finding out it’s not as easy as it seems. Is this truly the man God sent to be her husband, or is she just desperate to escape her loneliness? The recent loss of both parents has left her reeling, and close friends don’t think she’s in any position to make major life decisions. She and her new-found love are convinced they can live happily ever after in the home of their dreams. His family thinks he’s moving way too fast and might disappoint the kind-hearted woman he’s fallen head over heels for. And then there’s Leah. Leah is supposed to be part of his past, but what if she decides she’s his future? Tara’s match made in Heaven may be over before it truly begins.


Other Books in the Series


About the Author


E. C. Jackson began her writing career with the full-length play Pajama Party. For three and a half years she published the Confidence in Life newsletter for Alpha Production Ministries, in addition to writing tracts and devotionals. Teaching a women’s Bible study at her church for eleven years naturally led to her current endeavor of writing inspirational romance novels and teen and young adult fiction. Her mission: spiritual maturity in the body of Christ through fiction.

A note from E. C. Jackson: “The Write Way: A Real Slice of Life” is the slogan on my website and Facebook author page. If every person reading my book feels connected to the characters, my job is done.


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a $25 Amazon eGift Card
Open internationally
Ends April 3, 2019

Yeah! New Releases FREE & Bargain Books #LinkUp here! @BeckValleyBooks #Romance #Fantasy #BookDeals





Sharing the Love of Books
Enjoy our selection of New Releases / Free & Bargain Books this week

Authors please feel free to add your own books
Readers please free to add your own finds
(any genre except erotica welcome)

This weekly link up is hosted by Beck Valley Books & these awesome book loving blogs...
Monday
 Leels Loves Books 
Tuesday
Ebook Addicts
Wednesday
Beck Valley Books  
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

For Pre-orders post - PRE-ORDER / genre / title /author
For New Releases post - NEW / genre / title / author
For Free Books post - FREE / genre / title / author / end date 
For Bargain Books post - SALE / price / genre / title / author / end date
(Strictly no Erotica please.  Steamy romance is fine but watch those covers people, incase any underage child is viewing it!)

Here is this weeks awesome selection!
By adding your link, you acknowledge that the information you provide will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy and transmitted to Inlinkz in accordance with their Privacy Policy.

Would you like to share our linkup on your site? click here
Would you like to become a weekly host? sign up here


Come back and check out the new selection every week x

Blog Highlight: Theodore Ficklestein - Newsletter Writing Extraordinaire @TheodoreFickle

Blog Highlight: 

Theodore Ficklestein 
Newsletter Writing Extraordinaire


Here is his latest post: https://mailchi.mp/66a50e456c4b/march-2019-newsletter

BOTTOM LINE
A new book is coming soon
Everything else is kind of filler. (Aside from the stuff that is not filler. Obviously)

Cracks me up.  Lol. The end.


Grand Finale: THE GATE TO EDEN by @CathyMcDavid #Giveaway #BookTour @PrismBookTours

On Tour with Prism Book Tours


Audiobook Tour Grand Finale for
The Gate to Eden
By Cathy McDavid

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

...I thought for this launch post I’d tell you about why THE GATE TO EDEN is such a favorite of mine. To start with, it’s a historical western, a genre I loved writing but, unfortunately, has a limited market. Come on now, aren’t cowboys one of the best romance book heroes? I agree, which is probably why I started preening contemporary westerns, a genre I also love 🙂. THE GATE TO EDEN print book was also an Amazon top 100 bestseller with an average 4.3 star rating and has won several awards. Lastly, I wrote the book during a difficult time in my life, and it became a testament to my courage during adversity.

I hope you’ll come along with me on this blog tour. I’ll be sharing not only excerpts from the book but also some the interesting and fun process of turning a print book into an audiobook.

— Cathy


"Ms. McDavid, a new-to-me author, did a great job of ratcheting up the tension and conflict in this story. Maddie and Scott are both very sympathetic characters, and though they have some solid chemistry, it’s hard to imagine for much of the book that they could really end up together in the end. . . . Fortunately Ms. McDavid succeeded, giving us an ending that put a smile on my face.

I enjoyed the narrator–he had a great voice that really helped to transport the reader to the old west setting."


Wearing only his long underwear, he walked to the door of his sleeping quarters and knocked. “Are you all right, my dear?”

His only answer was a soft scuffling sound.

“Hello.” He knocked again, and the brass knob twisted. Thaddeus smiled and moved away from the opening door. “There you are.”

“So, I am.”

The door swung wide, and the smile on Thaddeus’s face died as the end of a Colt revolver was jammed into his protruding gut.

Hallie Reads - Review

"Take a trip to the Old West with Cathy McDavid’s new audiobook The Gate to Eden. With a female Robin-Hood-like character falling for the man trying to put her behind bars, it’s a story full of drama, danger, and excitement. . . . The Gate to Eden is a fun story, and the audiobook is well done."

Beck Valley Books - Guest Post

The Long and Winding Road

I’m absolutely delighted to be here and talking about my western historical book, THE GATE TO EDEN. It’s one of my favorites for many reasons, so I thought I’d share the somewhat involved history of this book and how it eventually became my first audio book...

E-Romance News - Excerpt

He was disappointed not to see Maddie by the canned goods on his way out. When had she left? But then he spotted her standing by the door, dusting a display.

Once again, their gazes connected. Scott's reaction was more sudden than before and every bit as intense. Surprising himself, he paused and held out the paper sack. "Here. Take this home to your daughter."

Her chin lifted ever so slightly. "Thank you kindly, but I can't." She spoke with a hint of Southern accent.

"Please. It's only a rope of licorice."

"I know what it is."

Wishful Endings - Guest Post

From Print to Audiobook

Next to seeing one of my books turned into a movie, having an audio version was my biggest dream. Let me start out by saying I love, love, love my traditional publisher Harlequin and hope to remain with them until the very distant day that I choose to stop writing. But, being a realist, I know it’s unlikely one of my series books with them will ever become an audiobook. If my dream had a chance of becoming gaining wings, it would be up to me...


Scott didn't so much as blink, yet Maddie sensed his rising excitement. Her plan was working, and she nearly went limp with gratitude. Maybe he would even go so far as to travel to the Vista Linda Mine and check out this fictitious Rory O'Shea. That would buy the council several days in which to plan their next move.

But then, assuming he did visit the Vista Linda Mine, what would he do when the wild goose chase she'd sent him on didn't pan out? Would he return and confront her for lying to him? She could always claim a faulty memory, she supposed. Miners did come and go with regular frequency.

Colorimetry - Guest Post

The Appeal of the Cowboy Hero

Cowboys have long been a popular hero for genre fiction. I’ve given workshops in the past on the appeal of the cowboy hero and would ask the participants to call out words that describe him. I always hears ones like: strong, capable, loyal, protective, resourceful, determined, moral, honorable, brave, trustworthy, and, of course, handsome...

Andi's Book Reviews - Audio Excerpt

Listen to an excerpt here.


"...they did have some good chemistry. The characters and their world were well built. I could envision it easily. This was an entertaining story. The narrator's style reminded me of William Shatner at times which added a bit of fun as well."


"I give The Gate of Eden a well deserved five stars. I recommend to readers who enjoy fun and romantic historical fiction. I look forward to reading more by this author in the future. "

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post, if you haven't already...

The Gate to Eden
By Cathy McDavid
Historical Romance, Western
Audiobook, 10 Hours and 33 Minutes (also in Paperback and ebook)
January 12th 2019

Expert crackshot Maddie Campbell will do whatever it takes to survive in this female Robin-Hood-of-the-Old-West story - including evading bounty-hunter-for-hire Scott McSween who's intent on bringing her in.

Not your ordinary thief, widow and mother Maddie Campbell likes to think her wealthy victims are merely "donating" to herself and the hundreds of other widows and children left abandoned by the mining company after a devastating accident took the lives of their menfolk. Maddie's secret excursions are quite successful...until ruggedly handsome former lawman Scott McSween arrives in Eden to investigate the recent string of crimes.

Despite her efforts to throw him off track, they can't resist each other. He knows she's somehow involved and is determined to draw out all her secrets in the most exquisite ways - with soft caresses and passionate kisses. But when finally confronted with the truth - that Maddie is actually the thief he's been hired to hunt down and bring in - will Scott choose the woman he loves or his duty to the law?


About the Author

As a sophomore in high school, NY TimesUSA Today, and Amazon bestselling author Cathy McDavid won a local writing competition with her self-illustrated children’s book. Who knew that small triumph would eventually lead to a career writing contemporary romances with over 1.3 million books sold? With forty-seven titles to date, Cathy is also a member of the prestigious Romance Writers of America’s Honor Roll. This “almost” Arizona native and mother of grown twins recently married her own real-life sweetheart. After leaving the corporate world four years ago, she now spends her days penning stories about good looking men who ride the range or fight fires or hunt creatures all while sweeping the girl off her feet. It’s a tough job but she’s willing to make the sacrifice.


Tour Giveaway

Western-themed basket with goodies, including a $25 Amazon Gift Card
US only
Ends March 27, 2019

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Grab Our Button!

Author's Top 5 Scenes! THE SHADOW WATCH / THE RAGE OF SAINTS by @SA_Klopfenstein w/ @RockstarBkTours #Giveaway #GuestPost

On tour with RockStar Book Tours...
SA comes to Colormetry to share his TOP 5 SCENES in his books!!  Check it out!




The Shadow Watch (The Shadow Watch, #1)

Title: THE SHADOW WATCH (The Shadow Watch #1)
Author: S.A. Klopfenstein
Pub. Date: May 15, 2018
Publisher: Guardian Grey Publishing
Formats: Paperback, eBook
Pages: 420 Find it: Goodreads, Amazon, B&N

For centuries, the Oshan Empire has ruled the New World with terror and blood. The Watchers have been eradicated, and their sorcery is but a whispered myth. But the heart of magic beats on, and as it surges back to life, three young people will determine the fate of the world…

Tori Burodai, a strong-willed slave girl. Her magic could ignite a revolution, but only if she resists the ruler who wants to use her powers to restore the empire to its former glory.

Darien Redvar, the idealistic soldier she loves. His rage leads him down a dark path to power that could turn him against the one person he cares for.

Kale Andovier, a lordling rebel with a torturous past. His quest for a weapon of dark sorcery will thrust him into a twisted game of power that could change the world forever.

Will the return of magic transform the New World, or bring it to ruin?

The Rage of Saints (The Shadow Watch series Book 2)

Title: THE RAGE OF SAINTS (The Shadow Watch series Book #2)
Author: S.A. Klopfenstein
Pub. Date: March 26, 2019
Publisher: Guardian Grey Publishing
Formats: Paperback, eBook
Pages: 507 Find it: Goodreads, Amazon

The thrilling second installment in the Shadow Watch series!

The Shadow Watch has been undone. Their captain lies in the dungeons of the White Citadel, and the Gallows Girl has disappeared. Most of the surviving Watchers have joined the chancellor's new magical army, the Sky Guard, led by Darien Redvar, but the Gallows Boy is shaken from the return of the monsters of the Old World, and he must soon choose, once and for all, where his loyalties lie.

Tori and Mischa trek to the Great White North with an Alyut shaman, who believes Tori is the one who will bring Restoration to his people. A resistance is growing in the North, but Tori may not be the god the people are looking for, and the price of revolution may cost Tori her heart as well as her life.

Meanwhile, another threat grows in strength. Old World monsters are rising up across the New World, and no one knows how they've returned. As nations ready themselves for a magical war, their return threatens to change everything.

New alliances are set in place, new friendships are forged, new loves kindled. But no one is safe, for there can be no war without betrayal.

Don't miss this the latest installment in the epic fantasy series readers are comparing to Mistborn and Throne of Glass!

Guest Post 
Top 5 favorite scenes and why. 
This is such a challenge! Especially when trying to avoid big spoiler moments. There are a couple death scenes that are favorites, but I’ll let everybody discover those on their own. 
1. The first scene comes from one of the early chapters of Book 1 of the Shadow Watch series. The first time Tori, the main character, meets the chancellor was one of my favorites to write. And it is still one of my favorite scenes in the series. It sets up so much of what’s to come, and despite the chancellor being the antagonist, I realized in that scene that I actually really like him. He is one of those baddies that you just sort of love to hate. He’s clever and complex, and interesting to watch do his bad guy thing, and this scene is no exception. 
2. The books are very politically involved. Everyone is vying for power and each of their motivations are complicated in their own way. This is especially evident in the Choosing scene from Book 1. In Yan Avii culture, twelve chieftains go through a ceremony to allow their goddess to select the leader of all the twelve tribes. But of course, behind the scenes, the Choosing is a complicated and ruthless process of bribes, magic, and murder. It is full of twists and is just plain fun. 
3. In the series, the Old World, an ancient age in which monsters and magic ruled, is a thing of the past. In the New World, magic has been (nearly) eradicated and monsters have drifted into myth. The secret behind how this was accomplished is a pivotal moment in Book 1. The Old World is not just a time period of the past, but is a literal place. The scene where Tori enters the Old World is one of the most memorable and iconic scenes of the book. It really takes the series to a new level. 
4. The series focuses on two good friends who end up on opposing sides of a magical war. The moment when Tori and Darien confront one another in this war is one of my favorite events in the series. It is full of surprises, especially for the two of them. 
5. The last one comes from Book 2. The book is called The Rage of Saints, and the Saints are lowborn rebels against the chancellor and his cruel empire. The first time we get to see the Saints is especially powerful, and despite how well I know this story, it still gives me shivers.




S.A. Klopfenstein


S.A. Klopfenstein grew up on a steady dose of Tolkien and Star Wars. As a child, he wrote his first story about a sleepwalking killer who was executed by lethal injection.


He lives in the American West with his wife and their dog, Iorek Byrnison. He can be found exploring the peaks of the Rocky Mountains, or daring the halls of the middle school where he teaches Language Arts.



Giveaway Details:

1 lucky winner will win a finished copy of THE SHADOW WATCH & THE RAGE OF SAINTS, US Only.



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Check it out! #Excerpt on tour THE CERTAIN HOPE by @EC_Jackson 25GC #giveaway @PrismBookTours

On Tour with Prism Book Tours


The Certain Hope
(Hope Series #3)
By C. E. Jackson
Christian Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 318 Pages
December 5th 2018

Love at first sight. It’s every girl’s dream. But Tara Simpkins is finding out it’s not as easy as it seems. Is this truly the man God sent to be her husband, or is she just desperate to escape her loneliness? The recent loss of both parents has left her reeling, and close friends don’t think she’s in any position to make major life decisions. She and her new-found love are convinced they can live happily ever after in the home of their dreams. His family thinks he’s moving way too fast and might disappoint the kind-hearted woman he’s fallen head over heels for. And then there’s Leah. Leah is supposed to be part of his past, but what if she decides she’s his future? Tara’s match made in Heaven may be over before it truly begins.


Excerpt

Uninclined to decode his personal agenda, Luke bided time until his brother spoke. “Why doesn’t that answer surprise me? Leah?”
This family has a fixation with that woman. “I’m a free man. I can date whomever I choose.”
“The grapevine says she’ll arrive in St. Louis on Friday. A month earlier than planned. Guess she didn’t accept your answer.”
Luke chuckled. “Now she knows that proposing to a disinterested man has consequences. Besides, holding false expectations is a character flaw I hate.”
“Really? Expecting marriage after a five-year relationship is holding false expectations? No wonder her dagger is out.”
“That’s a low blow,” Luke said through laughter. “Association, not relationship, is a better description.”
“Stop parsing words.” Andy sat on the sofa’s edge. “You were an item with her. Even if no one liked her.”
“I didn’t like her either. So there you go.”
“Five years is a long time to sleep with a woman you detested. Her proposal shouldn’t surprise you.”
“As my declining shouldn’t surprise you. Or would you condemn your brother to marriage with a con artist due to prior bad judgment?”
“Heartless, bro.” Andy sighed. “Explain why Tara’s a keeper after two weeks.”
Luke eyed the clock on the wall unit. “How much time do we have?”
Andy made up his mind quickly. “Plenty. I wish to hear whatever you want to say.”
Shifting position, Andy maneuvered three throw pillows beneath his head.

Other Books in the Series


About the Author


E. C. Jackson began her writing career with the full-length play Pajama Party. For three and a half years she published the Confidence in Life newsletter for Alpha Production Ministries, in addition to writing tracts and devotionals. Teaching a women’s Bible study at her church for eleven years naturally led to her current endeavor of writing inspirational romance novels and teen and young adult fiction. Her mission: spiritual maturity in the body of Christ through fiction.

A note from E. C. Jackson: “The Write Way: A Real Slice of Life” is the slogan on my website and Facebook author page. If every person reading my book feels connected to the characters, my job is done.


Tour Schedule


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a $25 Amazon eGift Card
Open internationally
Ends April 3, 2019

#Excerpt on tour from THE SHADOW WATCH by @SA_Klopfenstein w/ @RockstarBkTours #Giveaway RAGE OF SAINTS avail today!! #YA #Fantasy







I am happy to be hosting a stop on the blog tour for THE SHADOW WATCH Series by S.A. Klopfenstein! I have an excerpt to share with you today check it out and enter to win the giveaway below!

About The Books:



Title: THE SHADOW WATCH (The Shadow Watch #1)
Author: S.A. Klopfenstein
Pub. Date: May 15, 2018
Publisher: Guardian Grey Publishing
Formats: Paperback, eBook
Pages: 420
Find it: GoodreadsAmazonB&N

For centuries, the Oshan Empire has ruled the New World with terror and blood. The Watchers have been eradicated, and their sorcery is but a whispered myth. But the heart of magic beats on, and as it surges back to life, three young people will determine the fate of the world

Tori Burodai, a strong-willed slave girl. Her magic could ignite a revolution, but only if she resists the ruler who wants to use her powers to restore the empire to its former glory.

Darien Redvar, the idealistic soldier she loves. His rage leads him down a dark path to power that could turn him against the one person he cares for.

Kale Andovier, a lordling rebel with a torturous past. His quest for a weapon of dark sorcery will thrust him into a twisted game of power that could change the world forever.


Will the return of magic transform the New World, or bring it to ruin?



Title: THE RAGE OF SAINTS (The Shadow Watch series Book #2)
Author: S.A. Klopfenstein
Pub. Date: March 26, 2019
Publisher: Guardian Grey Publishing
Formats: Paperback, eBook
Pages: 507
Find it: GoodreadsAmazon

The thrilling second installment in the Shadow Watch series! 

The Shadow Watch has been undone. Their captain lies in the dungeons of the White Citadel, and the Gallows Girl has disappeared. Most of the surviving Watchers have joined the chancellor's new magical army, the Sky Guard, led by Darien Redvar, but the Gallows Boy is shaken from the return of the monsters of the Old World, and he must soon choose, once and for all, where his loyalties lie.

Tori and Mischa trek to the Great White North with an Alyut shaman, who believes Tori is the one who will bring Restoration to his people. A resistance is growing in the North, but Tori may not be the god the people are looking for, and the price of revolution may cost Tori her heart as well as her life.

Meanwhile, another threat grows in strength. Old World monsters are rising up across the New World, and no one knows how they've returned. As nations ready themselves for a magical war, their return threatens to change everything.

New alliances are set in place, new friendships are forged, new loves kindled. But no one is safe, for there can be no war without betrayal.

Don't miss this the latest installment in the epic fantasy series readers are comparing to Mistborn and Throne of Glass!


Excerpt from THE SHADOW WATCH (Prologue)


The mother could feel the creatures in her mind, searching, probing, scouring, desperate to unveil what remained hidden to them in the city of tents. She gripped her daughter’s hand tight, so tight she could feel the throbbing of her daughter’s heartbeat in her palm. Little Astoria did not know why her mother had snuck her out of their tent in the middle of the night. She did not know what creatures might lurk behind the skin of any one of their tribesmen, waiting to crawl out and devour her.

Together, mother and daughter crept through the city, weaving from shadow to shadow. The mother prayed the creatures would not find her until her daughter was safe, but the sun goddess of the Yan Avii had turned her face from the world.

Astoria yawned, then covered her mouth with her tiny hand.

She’s seen only seven summers, thought the mother. It pained her to think of what she had to do, but she could not keep her daughter a secret any longer. It was not safe.

Astoria did not know what hunted her because she did not yet understand the New World. She did not know of the ancient vows that had been sworn by ancient rulers, nor of the vile creatures that had been molded by them, molded for only one purpose—to eradicate Astoria’s kind from the world.

Fear wrapped its fingers around the mother’s throat, and she held still. She could sense the creatures again. They were searching all across the makeshift City Upon the Steppe. They had sensed magic, and they would not leave until their hunger was sated.

It did not matter that the Yan Avii were no longer part of the empire. The creatures did not abide by treaties or boundary lines. They knew only the purpose for which they had been bred. Astoria had used magic, and they had come for her.

A tenuous cloud slithered across the sky, shrouding the twin moons of the New World. A blessing from the gods. The mother imagined the Sisters were whispering to her as they cast the world in shadow. She could almost hear their voices on the wind. Be brave, good mother, be swift.

The mother seized the moment and hurried down the dark lanes through the labyrinth of tents, tugging her daughter along behind her.

Astoria shivered. Her tiny hand trembled in her mother’s palm. Astoria wore only a cotton shift, which barely reached her knees and left too much of her bony shoulders bare. The mother wished she had thought to grab her daughter’s cloak, but there had been no time.

Such a lovely thing, her daughter’s magic, an innocent thing. Astoria had used her gift for good. She had saved the boy. But the creatures came for her, all the same.

The cloud passed, and the Sisters rejoined their thousand daughters in their nightlong dance across the sky, bathing the tent city in iridescent light. But the momentary darkness had been enough.

At the edge of the Yan Avii tent city, the mother reached the tent she sought. The flap fell behind them, shielding them from watching eyes, though the creatures relied upon another sense. The mother felt their minds again, but she would not have to ward them off much longer. Her daughter was nearly safe.

The merchant was so burly he seemed to fill the tent. His smile was crooked like his heart, the mother had no doubt. Her own heart shuddered at what she had to do.

Sweat beaded from the merchant’s bald, fat head. Piercings lined the left side of his face from jaw to earlobe, threaded by a golden chain. His robes were blue like the glaciers of the mother’s homeland, woven of fine silk, and she knew he had not attained that wealth from dealing in spices.

“Who’s he?” Astoria muttered sleepily.

The merchant grinned, but he let the mother explain.

“He’s… an old friend, my dear. He is going to look after you. You must go with him.”

Realization dawned on Astoria’s face. Her eyes widened. Her lips trembled. “Go with him where?”

“Somewhere safe.”

“Y-you’re coming too?”

The mother shook her head. The merchant’s chest heaved with silent laughter. How many times has he witnessed such treachery, to find the betrayal of a mother so amusing?

“W-where are you going?” said Astoria.

The mother choked back a sob. She knelt and pulled her daughter close, and Astoria’s tears soaked through her tunic. “Far away, my love,” said the mother.

“I w-want to go with you.”

“You can’t. My friend will keep you safe. You must be strong, my love. You must trust me.”

“I trust you,” Astoria told her mother, straightening up bravely.

She’s strong, thought the mother. Too strong. This is the only way.

Astoria did not realize that her mother did not even know the merchant’s name. She did not understand when the man gave her mother a handful of coins in the exchange. The merchant took hold of Astoria’s hand, and the mother let go, biting her lip until it bled to keep from crying.

“We move out at first light,” the merchant said.

The mother handed him back the coins. “Leave tonight. Leave now.”

The merchant raised a dark brow, but he did not question her. His golden tooth shone when he smiled. His fingers closed around the coins. “As you say. Come, little girl. We’ll wake my friends, and then, we will go.”

“Her name is Tori,” said the mother. It was what the village children called her when they played. It sounded unassuming and common. Her true name betrayed its Old World origins. The mother feared anything, even a name, might draw attention to her daughter.

“Come then, Tori.”

Astoria held on to the merchant’s thick hand, and they left to wake his friends. The chain on the side of his face jingled lightly. His friends would be wearing chains too, the mother knew, though not on their faces. Soon, her daughter would wear chains as well. Astoria looked back one last time, her tawny face streaked with tears.

The mother managed a feeble smile. “Be brave, my love.”

The tent flap fell, separating them forever. Mother and daughter, blood of the same magical blood, no more.

“I’m sorry,” the mother murmured to the vacant tent. Her heart collapsed inside the hollow cave of her chest.

Her daughter was gone. But there was no time to mourn. Her daughter was not safe yet.

The creatures had sensed magic. They hungered for blood, and the mother would give them what they had come for. Her magic was of the realm of minds, and it was important Astoria forget the things she could do. As she hurried from the merchant’s tent, the mother reached out with her sense, found her daughter’s mind, and reached inside. One by one, she removed the memories that made Astoria who she was, what she was. Each one brought tears. She was robbing her own daughter, but it was the only way.

She hurried to finish, hoping it was enough. Already, the mother felt the creatures coming. They had sensed her magic, as they had sensed her daughter’s before.

But this time, the mother opened herself to their sense, and their minds washed over her, pulsing with hunger and anticipation. They had crossed the world for this. The creatures changed their skins and flew to find her, soaring on black wings. The mother rose from the ground and flew to meet them, soaring with no wings at all. Only magic. Tears ran down her cheeks in cold, meteoric streaks as she flew across the city, as she flew to die.

Her blood rained down upon the city of tents. Her body fell like a star. The creatures fell like crows, and they sated their hunger.

But the mother greeted the gods with grateful tears.

Her daughter was safe. That was all she had asked of them.

Astoria was safe.





About S.A.:

S.A. Klopfenstein grew up on a steady dose of Tolkien and Star Wars. As a child, he wrote his first story about a sleepwalking killer who was executed by lethal injection.

He lives in the American West with his wife and their dog, Iorek Byrnison. He can be found exploring the peaks of the Rocky Mountains, or daring the halls of the middle school where he teaches Language Arts.



Giveaway Details:

1 lucky winner will win a finished copy of THE SHADOW WATCH & THE RAGE OF SAINTS, US Only.



Tour Schedule:
Week One:
3/18/2019- Lone Tree ReviewsExcerpt
3/18/2019- Literary GoldSpotlight

3/19/2019- Kelly P's BlogExcerpt
3/19/2019- TMBA Corbett Tries to WriteInterview

3/20/2019- Life With No PlotReview
3/20/2019- The Hermit LibrarianGuest Post

3/21/2019- Adventures Thru WonderlandReview
3/21/2019- Graced with BooksInterview

3/22/2019- Lauren is ReadingReview
3/22/2019- Defining WaysGuest Post

Week Two:
3/25/2019- Sincerely Karen JoExcerpt
3/25/2019- BookHounds YAGuest Post

3/26/2019- Colorimetry Guest Post
3/26/2019- Two Chicks on BooksInterview

3/27/2019- Owl Always Be ReadingExcerpt
3/27/2019- Jaime's WorldExcerpt

3/28/2019- D. Books and ReviewsReview

3/29/2019- AbooktropolisReview
3/29/2019- Lisa Loves LiteratureExcerpt





It's Friday! Share your book finds here! New Releases #Free and #Bargain books #LinkUp @BeckValleyBooks





Sharing the Love of Books
Enjoy our selection of New Releases / Free & Bargain Books this week

Authors please feel free to add your own books
Readers please free to add your own finds
(any genre except erotica welcome)

This weekly link up is hosted by Beck Valley Books & these awesome book loving blogs...
Monday
 Leels Loves Books 
Tuesday
Ebook Addicts
Wednesday
Beck Valley Books  
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

For Pre-orders post - PRE-ORDER / genre / title /author
For New Releases post - NEW / genre / title / author
For Free Books post - FREE / genre / title / author / end date 
For Bargain Books post - SALE / price / genre / title / author / end date
(Strictly no Erotica please.  Steamy romance is fine but watch those covers people, incase any underage child is viewing it!)

Here is this weeks awesome selection!
By adding your link, you acknowledge that the information you provide will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy and transmitted to Inlinkz in accordance with their Privacy Policy.

Would you like to share our linkup on your site? click here
Would you like to become a weekly host? sign up here


Come back and check out the new selection every week x