Holiday Bonus Post: The Power of Pink: A Christmas Story, by Zaria Garrison

It's that time again: A Holiday Bonus! This time, I'm highlighting a compelling tale by a new-to-me author, and I hope you'll support her.

Inspired by her own battle with breast cancer, Zaria Garrison presents The Power of Pink: A Christmas Story.

Caron Taylor, Teresa Sanders, and Pamela Jefferson are three women looking forward to celebrating the upcoming holiday season with their family and friends.  

After becoming engaged to the love of her life, Caron finds out she has been diagnosed with breast cancer. The first person she confides in is her fiancée’, Michael. He is stunned by the news and suddenly drops out of sight. 

Teresa is a pediatric nurse who considers all of the children in her ward as her very own. She is also a twenty year cancer survivor who has never shared her diagnosis with anyone. After her marriage fell apart she chose to have the surgery alone and never speak about it with another living soul until fate and circumstance force her to open up her secret box. 

Pamela Jefferson has just completed radiation and chemotherapy following her diagnosis. Although she lost both breasts to the disease she is not letting a little thing like a double mastectomy slow her down or steal her joy. 

These three women, like so many, are fighting breast cancer and its lasting effects bring them all together this holiday season to celebrate.

Purchase Links:

CreateSpace eStore: https://www.createspace.com/4507826

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/The-Power-Pink-Christmas-Story/dp/1493652206/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1385595324&sr=8-1

Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Power-Pink-Zaria-Garrison-ebook/dp/B00GQJ69OA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1385595324&sr=8-1&keywords=zaria+garrison

My Web Store: http://webstartsshoppingcart.com/shopping-cart/store/catalog.php?userid=200958&pid=1&op=display

Website: www.zariagarrison.webstarts.com

zariagarrison@yahoo.com

Holiday Bonus Post: Christmas Angel by Deatri King-Bey

Hey, Y'all!
Now, normally, I don't do this, but er um...
It's December, so I'm spreading some holiday cheer. And what better way to do that than with a few awesome holiday reads? So, every week throughout the month, I'll feature a holiday themed book by another author. And to start off the fun, I'm presenting my good buddy, Deatri King-Bey, and her newest release. Enjoy!

 

The madness must end. All Abigail wants for Christmas is to be left alone. She has grown tired of her family’s horrible matchmaking schemes and her daughters’ deceptive plans to get her to take her ex-husband back. It’s not that she doesn’t want a relationship. She’s more than ready for Mr. Right to sweep her off her feet. She’s just come to the realization that there may not be a Mr. Right out there for her—and that’s okay. Now if she could only convince her family of that.

 

Jeff is all work and no play, which is why he found himself stranded in the middle of nowhere with a blizzard quickly approaching. Desperate for cover, he spots a house in the distance. Upon meeting the kindhearted, gorgeous owner of the home, he deems Abigail his Christmas Angel, and thanks Santa for the early gift. But is she too good to be true?

 

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Second-Chances-Deatri-King-Bey-ebook/dp/B00GBJCAAC

 

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/christmas-angel-deatri-king-bey/1117268242?ean=2940148713821

 

Visit Deatri online: http://DeatriKingBey.com

Is It Thanksgiving Already?

Hi Y'all-
Happy Thanksgiving to all my American readers. And for those of you outside the US, I hope your day is just as super!

Can you believe how quickly 2013 has flown by? I can't. That's probably due to the fact that I have young kids and stay constantly busy. That makes it hard sometimes to notice the days passing- a lot of times they just run together on me!

It's been a year of ups and downs in my household. I'll not go into the sordid details. Suffice it to say that my children are getting older and more demanding, my husband's work situation is about to change, and I've been a bit...on edge. Since I'm anxious by nature (writers are a crazy bunch in general, lol) I've probably spent far too much time worrying when I should have been writing. The good news is that's already starting to change.

I have a lot of good things to be thankful for. My husband, my children, my extended family, my awesome writer buddies and friends.  I have a home to live in, food in the fridge- my basic needs are met. On top of that I have wonderful readers, and freedom to pursue my dream of writing.

I'm not going to ask you what you're thankful for, I'm sure someone else will ask you that today. Instead, I'll ask, what's the most awesome thing you'll remember when you look back on 2013? Be sure to tell me in the comments, as one lucky winner will get a free copy of the PHOENIX Files boxed set (provided there are at least ten commenters).

Until Next Time,
Kianna

Anticipating Thanksgiving

Hey, Y'all!
We're just a week away from Thanksgiving here in the US. Some call it by its proper name, some call it Turkey Day. I myself call it Elastic Waistband Day. :)

Thanksgiving for us generally means a long drive to the western part of the state, to spend the day with my husband's large extended family. Fifty or more people descend on a house, and everybody brings something. We usually take a dessert. Oh my goodness, the food. There is so much of it, my mind is boggled every year. I can never decide what to put on my plate. Meanwhile, all my son wants is sweet potato casserole, and all my daughter wants is cake. Last year she had at least three slices, and I'm almost certain nary a veggie touched her tiny lips.

What are your Thanksgiving traditions? I'd love to hear about them. Share your traditions in the comment section for a chance to win a free copy of my holiday novella, Seducing Sheri. (I'll only draw if there are at least ten commenters, so share this post around the Inter-Web and encourage your reading buddies to comment as well.)

However you celebrate, I hope your Thanksgiving is awesome.

Hey, Y'all!

I'm doing a happy dance, because I recently released my very first box set will be released. The box set is of my PHEONIX Files paranormal romance trilogy, and I'm so excited for new readers to get a chance to discover it, and for current readers to be able to get all three books in a set.

If you're not familiar with the series, written under my Alexandra Kane pen name, let me give you the skinny. It's set in my home state of North Carolina, and revolves around PHOENIX, a covert organization that uses people with powers (telekinesis, shape-shifting, sorcery) to assist law enforcement in fighting crime. I'm told the series has a "New Adult" voice, though I must admit that when I was writing it back in 2011, there was no such thing as NA. 

There is a lot of action, fist-fights, some shoot-outs. There's also budding relationships, and some "sexy time". If you like those supernatural shows like Once Upon A Time, Charmed, Grimm, and the like, you could probably get into it. And if you're not inclined to read the scary stuff, don't worry, because horror this ain't. :)

So, if you haven't read the books (or even if you have), check out the box set. Grab the box set at Amazon and  Smashwords. Thanks again for being the awesome readers you are. Like I said, keep reading, and I'll keep writing.

Until Next Time, 

Kianna

Where's My Lawman?!?!

Hey, Y'all,

I know, I know. What's going on with Loving the Lawman? I'm sure some of you feel like you've been waiting forever. True, it's been more than a year since The Preacher's Paramour. It was not my intention for things to take as long as they did, but you know how life is. One day chicken, next day feathers.

I know you want to see the cover, but I gotta keep the mystery going, LOL. So. I'll be doing an official cover reveal, over on my Facebook page.

Loving the Lawman Cover Reveal

February 14, 2104

Kianna's Facebook page

Anyway, the wait is almost over! I'm happy to announce the release date of Loving the Lawman, the final book in the Roses of Ridgeway trilogy:

Loving the Lawman Release Dates:

eBook: March 14, 2014

Print: April 25, 2014

That's right. You can wait that long, right? You've shown incredible patience up to this point, and for that I'm extremely grateful. I have worked very hard on this story to make it worth every moment you had to wait.

Of course you know, release time means contest time! More details to come on that front.

So charge up your e-readers, y'all. Loving the Lawman is coming soon!

Until Next Time,

Kianna

Halloween Music Classics

Hey, Y'all,

It's Halloween once again. I have to say, in my household, we don't really do Halloween. And no, we're not those super-religious folks you often find in the South who proclaim "Halloween is the Devil!" For me, it's just a carryover from my own childhood. My mama didn't make a fuss over it, so I don't with my own kids.

So far, that's worked out well for us. The kids are 3 and 7, and not once has either of them asked for a costume, or asked to go trick or treating. I don't even think they know what trick or treating is. And I'm fine with that.

The only thing I can get behind is the music. there are two songs I used to always hear around Halloween that I like- Thriller, and the Monster Mash. Classic stuff. I've posted the videos so you can get your Halloween jam on.

Because at my house, that's likely all we'll be doing- dancing around and acting silly. We do that most days. :)

Until Next Time,

Kianna  

She Writes Hard for the Money...

Hey, Y'all,

So hard for it, honey...

Admit it. You were singing, right? :)

It's the truth. I do write hard for the money. It takes a lot of hard work, including drinking coffee, staring at the ceiling, and folding laundry, to write these books, honey.

Oh, yeah, there's some typing involved, too.

And if that wasn't enough, I'm still freelancing for clients in my "serious" job as a copywriter and ghostwriter. That means dealing with clients, answering emails and phone calls, and all of that. It's not nearly as exciting as my fiction writing, but it's writing, and I LOVE to write.

Basically what you have here is a woman, livin' the dream. I may never get rich financially, but I love what I do. The flexibility is ideal since I have a special needs child, and I understand what a gift it is to make money doing what you love.

So I'll keep writing as long as you keep reading. Stay awesome, y'all.

Until Next Time,

Kianna

Going to Climax Creek

Hey, Y'all,

It's that time again- time to tell you what I'm working on. As always, I'm working on a whole lotta stuff- that's just how I roll.

For those of you waiting on Loving the Lawman, it's coming, I promise! I recently got edits back from the fabulous Deatri King-Bey, and I've got work to do on the manuscript. I'm not ready to announce a date yet, but it will be out in time for the spring thaw. Look for a Roses of Ridgeway box set, coming soon as well.

I'm also working on two books contracted with Ellora's Cave, both sequels to Freedom's Embrace. The working titles are Love's Lasso and Deputy's Desire. I'll keep you posted on that.

I'm also excited to announce my very first holiday story- set in the small fictional town of Climax Creek, NC. It's a contemporary erotic romance short called "Seducing Sheri." Think small town, super sexy, and can't miss. I mean, look at the name of the town- it's gotta be good. Look for Seducing Sheri on November 1. The cover will be revealed on my Facebook page.

Seducing Sheri
Cover Reveal
Monday,October 14, 2013

It is really gorgeous. Can't wait for you all to see it. The very talented Mae at Cover Fresh Designs is responsible for all that cover loveliness. Thanks, Mae!

Well, it's back to the writing cave for me. Thanks again for all your support, and please feel free to leave comments or questions below.

Until Next Time,

Kianna

Columbus Day- What's Up With That?

Hey, Y'all,

Now you know I'm not one for controversy, but, I just gotta ask. Why is there a Columbus Day? I mean, I like holidays as much as the next person. I've even been known to celebrate such lofty days as National Cheesecake Day (celebrated on July 30th for those who may have missed it this year). But this is a holiday I just don't get.

Technically, the man didn't discover anything. How can you discover a place if people already live there? If that's the case, I can go "discover" Raleigh right now. Will I get a holiday then?

If we want to celebrate his intrepid spirit and his thirst for knowledge about the world around him, why not call it "Exploration Day," and encourage people to go out and explore their world?

It's just my two cents, but I don't believe Columbus Day is all that necessary. It's probably not going anywhere, though, so let's all celebrate in the appropriate manner.

Until Next Time,

Kianna

Falling Leaves- and Falling in Love

Hey, Y'all!

As of a few days ago, it's officially my favorite time of year, fall. There are so many reasons I love this time of year. And I'll tell you now, none of them have to do with all the pumpkin related products at Starbucks. While I love coffee and tea, pumpkin just don't move me. :)

Anyway, I love the changing colors of the foliage. Since I live in the mid-Atlantic, I love the drop in temperature- it's a much needed reprieve after August, when temperatures and humidity are so high you'd swear the pavement is melting. It's a great time of year for one of my favorite activities: porch sitting. That's right, y'all. My porch is cluttered most of the time, but I can sit on it with the best of 'em.

Another reason to love the season: I was married on the last day of summer so I started my life as a Mrs in the fall. It's been a decade, as of last week, since I married Strong and Silent. We've had our ups and downs, faced a lot of health issues with our oldest child, and gone through a whole bunch of mess courtesy of his employer. Still, I wouldn't trade him in for a shirtless Idris Elba. If you've known me longer than five minutes, then you know that's saying a lot.

So, here's to fall. Get on outside, enjoy that beautiful foliage, and if you've got a porch, sit on it like the royalty you are.

Until Next Time,

Kianna

Get Your Cocktail Dresses Ready

Hey, Y'all,

Today I have an exciting announcement for you. One month from today, on October 19, 2013 (which happens to be my birthday), I'll be part of a reader event that will certainly go down in history as one of the coolest you'll ever attend.

The event is called "A Hauntingly Sexy Meet and Greet", and will be held 10/19, at the Doubletree Hotel in Fayetteville, NC. The party starts at 7pm and goes, well, till we get done partying! It's a cocktail event, and we're asking you to break out your best LBD (Little Black Dress) and show up ready to meet your favorite authors, drink, and have a great time. So who's going to be there? Me, Erosa Knowles, Suzetta Perkins, and Cheris Hodges. There will be sneak peeks, goody bags, and other exclusive treats for readers who attend. That's right- now you know it's going to be epic.

Best of all, this event is free! That's right, it's at no cost to attendees, thanks to the gracious backing of Erosa Knowles. Space is limited, though- only the first 45 readers to RSVP will be accepted.

If you're in the area, or can get here, I suggest you RSVP right away- I expect slots to fill fast. I hope to see you there!

https://ncauthorevent.eventbrite.com/

Until Next Time,

Kianna

Haters Gon' Hate...

Hey, Y'all,

I'm back in effect again! Yay!

So, you can probably guess from the post title what I'm ranting about today. As the great young philosophers of 3LW once sang, haters gon' hate. That is, some folks are always going to have a problem with something you do, or say, or think. Yeah.

For me, I encounter a fair amount of hatin'. Just recently, for example, a person who shall remain nameless, informed my husband that I should be out working a "real job" instead of "sitting on my a$$" at home. Now, mind you, I've never met this person, and she knows nothing of my life except that I work from home. For some reason, folks think that's code for eating junk food and watching t all day. I can't speak for others, but in my case, I do ACTUAL WORK.

Aside from that, I don't know what in the world made her think she was in any position to give me advice, through my husband, on what I should be doing. Since she doesn't know me, or my family, she doesn't know that with a special needs child, there really isn't a 9-5 regular job I could take, as his care requires too much of my time to fit a boss' liking.

My point is, when people like this come along, trying to dictate how you do you, ignore them. No one can live your life for you, so do it your way- all I ask is that you keep it legal, people.

As for Madame Advice, she can go somewhere and have several seats.

Until Next Time,

Kianna

Back to School Sale!

Good Morning, my lovelies!


You know it's not often I post on Monday, but I've got good reason.
In one week from today, my oldest returns to school. The following day, my youngest goes of to preschool.
I love my babies more than chocolate. More than sweet tea. More than seafood, and good movies, and my next breath.
But after spending 14 solid weeks with them destroying my house and generally running amok, I can't even tell you how happy I am to let somebody else enjoy their company a few hours a day.

Yes, I'm ready to celebrate. You may think that sounds odd if you're childless, but other moms will TOTALLY get it.

So in honor of the sheer joy of sending our little darlings off to get an education, I have a sweet deal for you. I could tell you, but I'll let the neat-o graphic below do it for me!

That's right people. A half off sale. Celebrate your newfound free time by escaping into a book!

Also, I recently stopped by to talk with the ladies at TeaTime Romance. Here's the link in case you missed it: http://teatimeromance.wordpress.com/2013/08/17/interview-with-multicultural-romance-writer-kianna-alexander/

Until Next Time,
Kianna

Swingin' Saturday: Favorite 80's Songs

Hey, Y'all,

Folks who've known me longer than an hour know that music is my next favorite thing after writing and reading books. Maybe it's because each song evokes a memory or feeling for me, like life's very own soundtrack. Maybe it's because most music starts out as poetry.

Maybe it's because I can't resist the urge to jump up and bust a move. :)

Anyway, today I'll regale you with a selection of my favorite 80's music. I was born into this colorful decade, and I've gotta say, the clothes and hairstyles might have been something we want to forget, but the music was pretty awesome. Or, rad, as it was called back then.

First up, it's the Human League with their song, Human. Anybody who's been near a television lately has probably seen those insurance company commercials that point out our tendency toward clumsiness and causing accidents. The commercials are pretty clever, and they reminded me how much I liked this song.

Next up, it's Don't You Want Me by Jody Watley. I'm a big fan of Shalamar- not the perfume, but the 70's group consisting of Watley, Howard Hewitt, and Jeffrey Daniel. When Jody went solo, she unleashed an awesome torrent of pop songs that were truly  music to my ears. I loved her attitude, those giant hoop earrings, and that fashion sense.

Last, but not least, is Wishing Well by Terrence Trent D'Arby. I think he's going by some other name these days. Anyhow, the song is just so catchy I don't see how you could not like it.

Well, that's it for today. Hopefully you enjoyed my little musical trip down memory lane, because I'll be doing it again.

Until Next Time,
Kianna

Getting Ready for RWA

Hey, Y'all,
Right now, I'm embarking on my trip to Atlanta for RWA nationals. It took me a while to pack, because, well, I'm just not that put together. I debated for weeks about what to put in my bags. I know the conference is business casual, so I'm not going to be rocking my usual yoga pants-and-sneakers combo. (Hey, I'm a writer. I get extra credit for getting out of my PJ's!) It will probably end up being a mixture of dresses, skirts, slacks and blouses, that I can mix and match into something presentable.
I'm very excited about the learning opportunities, as well as my agent pitch. But I'm also glad I'll get to spend time with Beverly Jenkins, who's like Queen Mother of African American historical romance. Nobody does it like Beverly does, and I get "up under" her as often as I can. She has so much wisdom and encouragement to share, and besides that, she's just an all around great person.
I'll be taking lots of pictures, some of which will probably wind up on my Facebook and Twitter feeds, so go ahead and "like" and/or "follow" me so you can keep up with my adventures.
Well, I can't stay long. I have to finish packing, and prepare my husband's "One Week Without Mom" survival kit. You know, first aid supplies, electrical tape, a fire extinguisher, and non-perishable foodstuffs. :) I'm sure they'll be fine.

Until Next Time,
Kianna

Summmertime...and the Writing Ain't Easy!

Hey, Y'all

 I could swear laundry and dishes are multiplying when I'm not looking, and my kids are using all this new-found free time to find new and exciting ways to destroy the house and my sanity. Le sigh.
Anyways, on with the show. What am I writing? Well, I'm writing a bunch. I'm working on several projects, three historicals and one contemporary. It's a little insane but I have always worked on several books at once- that's how I roll. :)
Besides, I'm pretty sure if I worked on one thing at a time, I'd never finish anything. Between the time crunch and my tendency to get bored, it would probably be a very bad idea.
I'm really excited about Freedom's Embrace, my first Ellora's Cave title, which is coming out on August 1. You can pre-order it at Amazon and BN, or put it on your wishlist over at the EC website. I have to say, my experience with them so far has been awesome. My editors have been attentive and thorough, and things have been very transparent throughout the process. I will definitely be signing on with them for more books- the process has actually already started. I'll tell you more about that when everything's official.
In a few days, I'm headed to Hotlanta for my very first RWA national conference. I'm very excited about it, and I'll be sure to let you know all the interesting things that happened as I go along, and when I return. I'm road tripping there with four other illustrious authors: Olivia Kelly, Marquita Valentine, Laura Browning, and Erica Monroe- the trip should be pretty dang epic. I'll be recording these events for prosperity.
I('ll check back in Wednesday, with my pre-RWA jitters and all.

Until Next Time,
Kianna

Love, Loss, and The Deeper Meaning

Hey, y'all,
It's been some type of week. I had a small cookout on the fourth, after two days of very sad news.
Two people I looked up to in some way passed away, within a day of each other.
On July 2, the entire literary community suffered the loss of the incomparable Francis Ray. I was well acquainted with Ms. Ray, because I saw her at the three Slam Jams I have attended to date- 2008, 2011, and 2012. I remember her as a kind, gentle person, someone who always had an encouraging word for me as an aspiring author, and as a newly published author. She always looked so proud at the Emma Awards, as we came together to honor our favorites. That is how I'm going to remember her, smiling and happy.
Then, early on the fourth, I received news of the death of my distant cousin, Tonya Davis. Even though Tonya and I were distantly related on my father's side, I spent a very, very pivotal year at her home in Virginia. The year was 2004, and I was staying with her while my new husband trained in parachute rigging at nearby Fort Lee. She was a gracious hostess to my young, awkward 20 year old self. My 21st birthday happened while I stayed with her. She invited my husband, a total stranger to her, into her home. At the time, she was a busy working mother of two teen daughters, but she took me in anyway, fed me, entertained me and my husband. She never asked for money, and I was hard pressed to get her to accept it when I tried to pay for her hospitality.
But what was so important about the time I spent at Tonya's home is this: she MADE me finish the draft of my first novel, Skye's the Limit. She demanded a chapter a day in exchange for food. While she and the kids were gone to work and school, I toiled away on her office computer. By the time I left in November, I had a finished draft. The book wasn't published until 2009, but I dedicated it to her. I really can't say I would have ever finished it without her.
I don't have a picture of Tonya, and I'm sure you've seen a thousand of Francis over the past week or so. All I can say is losing these two people within a day had me "feeling some type of way."
I wondered about life, about love, and what it all means. The people we meet in passing, or the people we spend only a short time with, can have a profound effect on our lives. These two women did just that, and they have my everlasting gratitude.
So, for Tonya, and for Francis, safe travels to that heavenly realm- until we meet again.

Until Next Time,
Kianna

The Summer Begins

Hey, Y'all,
Well, summer is officially "In Effect Mode," sorta like Al B. Sure was back in the day. ;)
That means my son is home from school, and I now have two short people vying for my attention every day. Le Sigh. It is what it is, folks.
I don't want you to think I've forgotten about you. I promise I haven't. I have genuine love and appreciation for my readers. Everyday, it boggles my mind that people care what I have to say. I'm the writer who has people ask me to sign a book, and I say, "Who, me? You mean, you know who I am?" I'm always afraid Beverly Jenkins or Farrah Rochon is standing behind me. LOL
Anyhow, I have a few new releases to tell you about. When I'm not wrangling kids, or trying to keep my house clean, or being a wife and what-not, I'm writing. I recently got an Alphasmart, and I've been writing more than ever since I got that thing. It's like magic for me. If you've never heard of it, it's a no frills word processor. No Internet. No distractions. For me, it's awesome. It helps me get thousands of words more than usual into my stories. Here's hoping I actually finish something soon!

First up, I have a solid release date for Freedom's Embrace, my debut with Ellora's Cave.

Release Date: August 1, 2013

You can also pre-order it at Amazon or BN, or add it to your wishlist over at Ellora's Cave.

My next release will be Loving the Lawman, the third in my Roses of Ridgeway series.

Loving the Lawman

A Roses of Ridgeway Novella

Release Date: August 31, 2013

I am taking a break from the actual writing of LTL to write this blog. I have been toiling away at it since mid-spring, and I will have it off to my excellent editor, Deatri King-Bey, by July 13. Two days before deadline.

 

Why no cover for LTL? It's already done, but I'm keeping the mystery and excitement alive. There will be an official cover reveal blog tour, of which I'll announce the details soon.

If you'd like to pre-order Loving the Lawman, just contact me at kiannaalexander AT gmail DOT com, and I'll invoice you.

In other news, I am attending my very first Romance Writers of America national conference, which will be July17-21 in Atlanta. When I've returned and recovered, I'll tell you all about my RWA virgin experience. Keep your fingers crossed for me, as I'm pitching to an agent while I'm there! I'm really looking forward to some awesome networking and learning, and a bit of goofery as well .

That's it for now. I can't stay too long, as I've got to get the Lawman book finished!

Until Next Time, 

Kianna

Cover Reveal: Freedom's Embrace

Hey, Y'all!
I'm super excited to reveal the cover of my next historical romance, Freedom's Embrace. It's coming soon from Ellora's Cave...within the next six weeks or so. I will announce the official release date as soon as I know it, on Facebook, Twitter, my website, and here at the blog. Stay tuned for that!


This is a super awesome moment for me, because  there was a time when I thought this book would never be published.  I wanted a publisher for this one. It needs and deserves a broad audience, and despite the very wonderful readers I have, my name alone won't do.


The story takes place in 1849, and the heroine, Naomi, is a runaway slave. The hero, Jonathan, is an octoroon doctor who passes for white. Something about this setup made some publishers very, very uncomfortable, hence a big pile of rejections for my beloved tale.


Finally, someone saw my vision Krishan Trotman @EC. Now the story will finally be told and I an so thrilled.... and a little emotional.


I think I made you wait long enough. :) Behold, my lovely cover for Freedom's Embrace.

 

I don't know about you, but I think it's the cat's pajamas. It's evocative, the font is pretty, my name is spelle correctly. Sweet!

Feel free to share the image on your various social networks, I know I will! Also, everyone who answers my question in the comment field or follows this blog will be entered to win a Kianna Alexander swag pack! Here's my question: What's your all time favorite book cover, and why? Good luck!

All the Best,
Kianna 

Event Recap: My Visit to the Harnett Co. Library

Hey, Y'all,
Happy Wednesday! Hope your day is as awesome as all my readers. :)
I thought I'd give a brief recap of my visit this past Saturday, April 20, to the Harnett Co. Library in Lillington. I have to say, I had so much fun I forgot to take pictures. Sorry, y'all. :{

The room was set up beautifully when I arrived, with chairs for readers to listen to me speak and read from my books. I credit Barbara McLean, my liason at the library, as well as her staff members Heather and Mark, for the preparation that went into it. A beautiful full color poster was displayed right in the entrance, advertising me and my books. It was so pretty I asked to bring it home, and it's now hanging on my office wall.

I had expected to do a couple of readings and talk a bit about the writing process, but as is so often the case in this business, things didn't go as I planned. The gathering was more informal, instead of people sitting and waiting for me to entertain them, people walked up to me and engaged me in conversations about various things. Some wanted advice on breaking into writing, others wanted to know where I got my ideas and how I had managed to complete so many books. I shook a lot of hands, passed out a lot of bookmarks, sold some books, and generally had a good time. All in all, it was totally worth the 50 minute drive up 401 to get there, and I will certainly be going back.

 I'd like to thank Barbara, Heather, and Mark again for their hospitality, and I'd also like to thank all the people who stopped by for a snack, a quick word, or for whatever reason. I truly, truly appreciated each and every connection I made.

So, how was your weekend? What do you have on tap for the coming weekend? Let me know in the comment section- I'd love to hear.

That Sho' Sound Good!

Hey, Y'all,
I don't know how you feel on the topic, but I LOVE music. LOVE it. It is easily my second favorite thing after the written word. What's great is that it goes so well with books. :) That makes me a happy lady.
For me, music is like life's soundtrack. I hear an old song, like the one below, and am reminded of my days riding in the back of the family car, staring out the window and pondering my kiddie conundrums. (Yes, I realize I'm dating myself with these vids.)
Note, I loved this song as a kid, but thought the vocalist was saying, "Don't desert this fool." Go figure. As an adult, I can understand and appreciate the subtle nuances of the actual, correct lyrics. :)

The music of the nineties reminds me of my days in high school, the teenage angst, and the so-called "puppy love" I felt for my then boyfriend, who, by the way is my husband of almost ten years now. Not for nothing, but I tried to tell my parents this thing was for real. :)

The music of the early 2000's reminds me of my college days. They were so tame, they were probably...lame. I studied, never drank or clubbed, never went to parties. (I did once go to a baby shower in my junior year- does that count?) What can I say, I was just born sensible. While I was pretty much on the straight and narrow, I did enjoy some of the sexually overt music of the time.

My tastes are not as bland as they seem. I love all kinds of music- on my MP3 you'll find Reba McIntyre, The Gap Band, Mint Condition, Ella Fitzerald, and even Eartha Kitt singing in French. But every now and again, I hear something that moves me. That just sweeps me up in some type of magical. If you've never watched the show "The Sing Off" you might not recognize this group. Listen to the clip anyway. It is hands down the best thing I have heard in the last several years-musically anyway. Behold, the auditory delight of Afro Blue.

Music is a big factor in my life. No matter what I'm doing there is usually music playing- that includes when I'm writing. What kind of music do you like? Tell me in the comment section.

Until Next Time, 

Kianna

Calling All Party People: Midnight's Serenade Release Party!

Hey, Y'all,

The release of Midnight's Serenade, the third and final book in the PHOENIX Files series, is really close, and I am SUPER excited! Hopefully, so are you! This book has been over a year in the making, so I'm glad I can finally release it into the wild- I mean- release it to my awesome readers!

I don't know about you, but I think this is an occasion to celebrate! So, I'm going to throw my very first online release party! That's right, you can party with me on release day in your PJ's if you want to- no fighting traffic, no spending a half-hour searching for parking. When it's this easy to get in, you've just got to be there. You can like my Alexandra Kane FB page here- do it now if you haven't already, so you won't miss out on all the fun! There will be music, silly acting, and Marcello just may stop by to entertain the ladies! :) Also, the contest winners will be announced, so be there or regret it later.

Midnight's Serenade Online Release Party

Tuesday, April 30, 2013,

8:00-9:15 PM EST

@ Alexandra Kane Facebook Page

Don't worry, I'll remind you again about the party. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter to be kept in the loop.

Until Next Time, 

Kianna/Alexandra

The Sorcerer and the Succubus: A Look At Midnight's Serenade

Hey, Y'all,
If you follow me on Twitter and Facebook, then you know that the eBook release of Midnight's Serenade, the third and final book in the PHOENIX Files series, is just around the corner- a little less than two weeks away! You've probably seen this: #Midnight's Serenade #4/30/2013 - hopefully you've been sharing/re-tweeting it. :)

I've posted quite a few teasers and quotes leading up to this point, but today I'm giving you an excerpt. Let me set the scene. Marcello Spirelli, the landscaper/ sorcerer readers remember from Embrace the Night, is assigned to protect Dr. Le'Kisha Byrd, a brilliant scientist whose latest invention is wanted by everybody- good guys and bad guys. This is the point where Marcello has arrived at her home, and is about to inspect the upstairs of her house.

Marcelo shook his head. "You go first, just stick close to me." He couldn't tear his eyes away from the satin curve of her neck and bare shoulders, and the tops of her breasts exposed by the thin straps of her night gown.

She shrugged, and began to climb stairs.

He followed one step behind. Just as he'd just, the site of her hips, swaying beneath the thin night gown, which truly magnificent. She was taller than average, and very curvy. Watching her round little ass flex each time she lifted her foot was undoubtedly the best part of his day.

At the top of the stairs, she stopped on the landing and turned to face him. "What now?"

Her question broke him out of the trance, and he began to let his training take over. "Give me a minute to look around."

"All right." She folded her arms over her pert chest, and leaned against the small, wrought iron table.

He turned slowly into full circle. The walls, painted a soft green, were home to a variety of colorful abstract art pieces, bronze sconces, and ceramic plaques. An oval-shaped antique mirror sister the wall facing the stairs.

He walked his left, around the polished banister, and felt his shoes sinking to the plush carpet. He opened each of the five doors on the second level. There were two full bathrooms and two more kiss their rooms, in addition to the two bedrooms and powder room downstairs. Her bare room, at the end of the hall, was last.

As he turned the knob, she joined him. The decor echo what he'd seen all the landing; same paint shade, same art the queen sized bed set beneath the bronze and crystal chandelier, and was dressed in shades of cream and pink. He crossed the room, surveying her large walk-in closet, and the five piece master bathroom, which had told granite counter tops, stainless steel fixtures, and a bathtub large enough to double as a small pool.

When he returned to the bedroom, he found her sitting on the edge of the bed. Her questioning eyes were on him."So, what's your impression?"

He looked into the face of the woman he was charged to protect, and was struck again by her beauty. Her face was his art for the paintings displayed on her walls – bronze skin, high cheekbones, and deep set brown eyes framed by long, lush lashes. the blunt, tapered cut of her brown hair framed her face gracefully. Her full lips looked his plump ass cherry tomatoes ready to be harvested from the vine. "Your practical and logical – the same decor flows throughout your entire house. Your meticulous, because there's not one cricket painting or wilted flower anywhere.. The stuffed animal collection in your closet tells me you have fond childhood memories , and that even though you'd like a pet, you feel you're too busy for one."

She blinked several times, fluttering those dark lashes as if surprised. "I'm impressed. Go on." She crossed her legs, raising the hem of the gown to reveal her tapered calves and ankles.

He smiled. Women usually either enjoying his ability to read them, or were put off by it. He was glad she was impressed."There are books and magazines everywhere, meaning you love to read and like to stay informed. The table you leaned against on the landing is one recently moved, indicated by the grooves in the carpet. And, even though this house is well over 2500 square feet, there is only one decorative mirror." He eased closer to her. "That tells me you're a woman who is totally unaware of just how beautiful she is."

Of course you know, along with a new release comes a super awesome contest! The Rafflecopter box is in the sidebar, so just follow the directions there. Contest opens Tuesday, April 16 and closes on release day, April 30th.

Until Next Time,
Kianna/Alexandra

Remember, you can pick up your eBook copy at ARe, Amazon, and B&N on April 30th.  

Whatever Became of Jo Lewis?

Hey, Y'all,
I realized I broke a promise to my readers, and I wanted to rectify that. Eagle eyed readers of the blog (I love you, by the way) may have noticed that I missed a release. Back in October, I was set to release a new adult paranormal short. In case you forgot, this the cover (which will probably change):

Well, I have to admit, a lot of things have occurred since the Jo Lewis Chronicles were conceived. I've gotten a contract with Ellora's Cave- I can officially say that as everything is signed and my bio is up on their site. I'm super excited about that. Also, I had a full manuscript request from a very large publisher famous for their romance novels. Beyond that, I have three other books in various stages of development, and I have two series to finish out this year: Kianna's Roses of Ridgeway historical series, and Alexandra's PHOENIX Files paranormal series. Whew. On top of that, throw in a home life best described as controlled chaos- two little ones, hubby, house- you get the picture.

I just wanted to let you know I have NOT forgotten about Jo- not by a long shot. This character and her stories have been in my head for a few years now. Jo is coming- but you may not see her until late 2014/ early 2015, depending on how things go here in Middle of Nowhere,NC. :)


All the Best,
Kianna/Alexandra

Sneak Peek Sunday Hop- Kissing the Captain

Hey, Y'all!

This week I'm participating in the Sneak Peek Sunday hop. Be sure and check out the other author's entries- there is a nice mix to be enjoyed. 

What is Sneak Peek Sunday? Well, each author participating shares exactly six paragraphs from one of their books, to give a little insight into the story. I've chosen to give you my six paragraphs from my best-selling title, Kissing the Captain, which is a sweet historical. Even though it's my highest seller, there are folks out there who still don't know about it, and it's sequel, The Preacher's Paramour. Hopefully we'll remedy that today. :) The excerpt begins just below the cover image (click the cover to purchase the book.)

She was so stunned, she thought her eyeballs might pop out of her head. "I don't know who is more crazy, you, for agreeing to marry a woman you just met, or my father, for arranging this travesty in the first place!"

Anger and frustration coursed through her so strongly she feared her blood boiled. Wiping her sweat dampened palms on the front of her skirt, she turned a hopeful gaze on Mr. Peters. “Is there any clause that allows me to shirk this union, and still remain on the land?

The solemn faced lawyer shook his head. “I'm afraid not, Ms. Warren. If you don't wed the captain within two months of your father's passing, you'll lose your claim to the land.”

A bitter chuckle escaped her throat. “Well, isn't this a fine fix.” Her father's meddling from beyond the grave, while well intentioned, had her mad as a March hare. How could he have done such a thing? She could feel the tears stinging the corners of her eyes, but she refused to shed them, lest she look like a pouting child in front of her company. She was a woman full grown, so she'd do what was necessary to preserve the family lands.

Her knowledge about running the farm was limited at best, since she had only assisted her father in a few of the many tasks required. Also, she did need someone to help work the land, and no one else had offered their services. What choice did she have? She looked to Prudence, who seemed somewhat recovered from her shock. "Well, Pru, I suppose we've a wedding to prepare for." Swinging a cool gaze toward the gorgeous, dark haired man who would be her husband, she announced, “This will be a marriage in name only, Captain.”

He met the challenge in her eyes easily. “As you wish, Senorita.” He captured her hand again, and brought it to his lips. “But be aware, I will court you.”

How's that? If you want to know what really happens between the sea captain and the farmer's daughter, you'll have to read the book. :)

Until Next Time, 

Kianna

Long Time No See

Hey, Y'all!
I know it has been a while since I posted here. I've been super busy with the Hot MAMA Land blog and event, as well as family life. I asked myself what I wanted to do with this blog. I have to keep it... I have far too many ramblings to be contained in my once monthly HML postings. So, I retooled this blog. Hope you like the new scenery.
I also did a lot of writing. I know. Why would I disrupt my online presence with actual writing? Well, we all know I'm a little nutty.  (Smile) Due to all this writing, though, in the next several months I will have two to three releases- so, it was worth it. More on that coming soon.
So, I'll now do my level best to post here once a week or more. The nifty app on my fancified phone should help with that.
Join me this Friday March 29@ 8:15pm at the Coffeetime Romance Chatters eLoop for a lively discussion of my PHOENIX Files series. You can also catch me in person on April 20 from 10-1 at the Harnett Co. Public Library in Lillington NC. The event is free, and giveaways and refreshments will be flowing.
That's it for now. Stay tuned for more updates and randomness.
Best,
Kianna