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I'm having a giveaway for a $25 Amazon gift card! (US only.)

ENTER by clicking here!

Highlander Unbroken is a Sceal Book Award Finalist at Books & Benches!

Here are two awesome reviews for Highlander Unbroken:

5 stars, Reviewer's Top Pick: "Highlander Neacal MacDonald was a broken man in spirit and body. He was a spy for the King but was betrayed, caught and tortured by his family's enemy clan, the MacRankins. Although broken in body and madness stirring his mind and spirit, he can't fully chase his demons away. Trying to be the best chief for his clan is difficult when everyone has you labeled the mad chief. 

Anna Douglas is traveling with a group of ministrels, and has the voice and face of an angel, and she's the only one that can chase his madness away. But who is Anna and who is she running from? What are her secrets? Secrets that can have a devastating effect and can bring death and destruction to everyone close to her. She dares not succumb to the attraction and desire that she feels for Neacal, even though it feels so right. 

Neacal can't seem to get Anna out of his mind and every time they are together he feels consumed with desire like never before. Treachery, deceit and a race for time are working against them, enemies death and destruction seem inevitable! Join Neacal and Anna as they fight for their happily ever after! Vonda Sinclair is a magnificent story teller, and she captures every emotion the hero and heroine are feeling. Fast-paced and exhilarating till the very end. Highly recommended."

Maria Rose Dariotis at Books and Benches

A Night Owl Reviews Top Pick!  "What a great story! Highlander Neacal MacDonald is a man who has been broken in both body and mind after being betrayed and then tortured by his enemies. He's now the leader of his clan but he's struggling to hold on to his sanity while he tries to be the best leader he can to his people. Anna Douglas is traveling with a group of minstrels and she has horrors of her own she's trying to out run. The two are immediately attracted to each other but can they put aside their demons to be what the other needs?

This was so, so good. The story was really well written and the characters felt real. My heart went out to both Anna and Neacal. They had both been through so much pain but were at core really strong people. Their romance was super touching and I was rooting for them all the way.

The plot was fast paced filled with suspense. It was engaging and I couldn't read this book fast enough. It killed me to have to put it down and go adult.

This is the 8th book in this series but I had not read the previous ones but I had no trouble following the plot line. It worked just fine as a stand alone. I had never read this author before and I'm so glad I tried this book. I will definitely be going back to read all the other books in this series."

BookGirl, Night Owl Reviews

Torture has driven Neacal MacDonald to the brink of madness.
As the new chief of the MacDonald clan, Neacal will do whatever it takes to honor his late father and to help his clan thrive. But whispers of his madness abound and many in his clan turn traitor, wanting MacDonald of Sleat to lead them instead. Conflict ignites between the bitter rivals when Sleat garners the help of the man who tortured Neacal in the past.

Can one woman's song pull him back and begin to heal his soul?
Everything has been ripped from Anna Douglas except her angelic voice and the will to survive. When she meets Neacal, she recognizes something familiar in him—stark loneliness and pain. His past could be even more tragic and tarnished than hers. No one must learn her true identity or about the brutish man declaring she is his wife, for he will stop at nothing to reclaim her. Though Neacal vowed to never trust a woman again, he cannot resist the secrets in Anna's eyes or her spellbinding song, which threatens to break down the icy walls surrounding his tormented heart.

Purchase at: 

​

Kindle: 

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http://amzn.com/B01BLUSSK6

Amazon Print: http://amzn.com/1532792913

B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/highlander-unbroken-vonda-sinclair/1123677677

Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-ca/ebook/highlander-unbroken

iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/highlander-unbroken/id1105598679?mt=11

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/630792

Highlander Unbroken is being recorded as an audiobook! :)

Thanks!

Vonda

www.vondasinclair.com

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Review This...

I have a dear friend who is committed to growing her writing career. She loves what she does and is ready to do whatever it takes to promote her work. That includes seeking out reviews.

In her case, she went straight to the big boys, whose name rhymes with "irk us" which is kind of how I felt after reading her review (seriously, are they trying to irk us with this?). I've always had a problem with pay-per-review businesses, but this is one of the most trusted names in books, and it should be, given its longevity in a business where starts-ups get five minutes to publish a best-seller or die.

However, based on the review I read of my friend's work, I'm a little irked at this company and the whole idea of paying for a review when major publishers don't have to. It feels discriminatory to me, but my friend wouldn't listen to my insights and proceeded. She's thrilled with the results. I, on the other hand, am disappointed for her.

The review she received was truly mediocre, and, to be honest, that's accurate. Her book is totally mediocre. Nothing to write home about. Another cliched addition to an over-booked (no pun intended) genre. She told me this herself, and since I've read the book, which I enjoyed but was not wowed by, I have to concur. She doesn't care that her book, which is her first attempt at a novel, is not the most exciting thing since the 2016 presidential election. She plans to write bigger and better books. She's totally aware of where her book falls in the food chain, and totally wants to market the hell out of it because it is, if not Pulitzer material, completely enjoyable and worth reading. And it is. And the review says as much.

The problem I have with the review is not that it was uncannily accurate (my friend read it and guffawed about how dead on it was about her plot being a little worn), but that it cost hundreds of dollars (more if you want an expedited review) to get a review that was, in my opinion, worth about twenty-five dollars. Even if it had been glowing and starred and made of the sweat of Brad Pitt, it was still worth about twenty-five dollars worth of work on the reviewer's end. And that irked me.

What about you? How do you feel about pay-per-review businesses? What about reviews in general? Please do share in the comments if you have an opinion.

Great New Reviews for Her Royal Masquerade

An enthusiastic tweet led me to this review of Her Royal Masquerade:

5 out 5 stars

This book was really wonderful and filled me with multiple emotions. I laughed, cried, giggled throughout the book. My heart broke in places and really felt the chemistry between the two main characters. Moore did an exceptional job on the plot making it a very smooth and exciting read. I highly recommend this book.

And here is another review that made me smile:

4 stars for a sweet heart-warming story about a prince and his Cinderella.

And another:

...the romance sweeps you away and the fantasy makes you smile.

Reviews that tell me readers love this story, and the characters, as much as I do, make me smile :)

Natasha
www.natashamoore.com

Great Review for Playing for Real

Playing for Real, the final book in the Paolo's Playhouse series, released on Feb 4th. I've loved being a part of that world. And was thrilled at the great review it got from Harlequin Junkie.

"Playing for Real (Paolo’s Playhouse) by Natasha Moore is a real scorcher. It is a tastefully done BDSM romance with an engaging plot, interesting characters and an adult playhouse where sexual fantasies come true...Wow, this is an unbelievably hot and erotic book. Ms. Moore’s voice is enticing and smooth, which kept me engaged during a couple of harsher BDSM scenes that would normally turn me off. I found the cover to be extremely inviting, due to the color variations. If you enjoy erotic romance combined with BDSM, look no further than Playing for Real."

Excerpt:

Maybe she should cancel before it was too late. Julianne paced the living room floor, her phone clutched in her hand. She couldn’t pretend this was an ordinary date. Couldn’t pretend it was an ordinary man she thought about as she had showered and dressed to order. It was a play date. With a Dom. What had she been thinking?

There was nothing wrong with her solitary life. She made her own decisions and didn’t have to answer to anyone. She wasn’t a submissive. She didn’t need to get all tied up in this—

Her phone buzzed, vibrating in her palm. Maybe this was Paolo. Maybe he was cancelling. Maybe he realized this was a mistake. She glanced at the screen. It wasn’t Paolo. “Hey.”

“You are still alive.”

She grimaced at her best friend’s sarcastic tone of voice. “Stacey.” There had been a time when they saw each other at
least once a week.

“It’s been almost two months, Jules. You’re taking workaholic to the extreme.”

“I know. Booming business is a mixed blessing.” Not that it was booming exactly, but it did keep her busy. “Sorry I haven’t called you back.”

“Well, I’m not giving you a chance to blow me off again. I’m on my way to pick you up. We’re going to go get some drinks. Have dinner. Bad mouth all the guys who don’t appreciate us.”

“Oh I’m sorry, Stace. I have plans.”

“Yeah, probably picking out paint colors or something. Cancel them.”

“I can’t.” And Julianne realized she didn’t want to. She might not be submissive but she had to see if what happened last week was a fluke. To see if she could give up control again. She wasn’t sure she could, even to get the best sex of her life. Even with a Dom as experienced as Paolo. A man as sexy as Paolo.

What would Stacey think if she knew Julianne was looking forward to another bout of bondage sex with a man she just met?

“Jules? You still there?”

“Yeah. Sorry. I have a date.”

“On a Monday night? Come on.”

“Really.” The loud rasp of the buzzer made Julianne jump. “I have to go, Stace. I’ll call you later. Promise.” She disconnected the call and then slapped a shaky hand on the intercom button. “Yes?”

“Julianne? It’s Paolo.”

She shivered simply from the sound of his sexy, lyrical voice speaking her name. She swallowed before she could speak. “I’ll be right down.”


And I'll just remind you that there's still time to enter the Stay Warm With a Book giveaway!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Natasha
Playing for Real - available now
Her Royal Masquerade - available now
Her Royal Bodyguard - available now
Her Royal Mistake - coming spring 2014
The Cottage Next Door - coming Sept 2014
www.natashamoore.com

Bears and Books for Christmas!

My bears are all done for Christmas! Although I've got 4 possible pending orders again.

And these are some fun reviews for A SEAL Wolf Christmas!!!
http://theroyalreviews.blogspot.com/2013/12/a-seal-wolf-christmas-by-terry-spear.html
Rating: 5 Crowns—A Royal Read*

I absolutely loved A SEAL WOLF Christmas. Definitely one of my top ten books of 2013.

Bjornolf Jorgenson has been ghosting Hunter’s SEAL wolf team to make sure the team stays safe while on missions, but he has also been doing so to keep an eye on the Anna Johnson, the sexy little gray wolf who has captured his attention.Growing close on their last mission, the two now find themselves playing the part of a married couple while trying to solve a murder investigation and raising a teen wolf who wants to run away. I adore Terry Spear’s novels and A SEAL Wolf Christmas is no exception.
Chocked full of action, adventure, mystery, chemistry, romance, heat, and witty characters A SEAL Wolf Christmas is one of those books that should come warning label stating that it has the potential to explode in your hands.
The chemistry between Anna and Bjornolf was brilliant—I could not get enough of them. They were one of those couples you want to see succeed in their relationship. What made it more interesting was the fact that Anna is covering up a secret from her past, which is also the reason she hates Christmas.
I was unable to put this book and read it in one sitting, so it’s highly addictive and thoroughly engaging.
*What is a Royal Read:
Royal Reads are our desert-island, bury-me-with-this-book, don’t-sleep-until-its-finished, all-time-favourite reads.

Royal Reviews: A SEAL Wolf Christmas by Terry Spear

theroyalreviews.blogspot.com

Navy SEAL Bjornolf Jorgenson has had tough missions before, but going undercover with feisty gray wolf Anna Johnson could top the list. She drives him crazy—in more ways than one. Now he has to

http://www.ilovevampirenovels.com/vampires/review-seal-wolf-christmas-terry-spear/
*****************************************************************

Terry Spear created an incredible world in her Heart of the Jaguar series recently, but little did I know that she had already set us up with a 12 book (so far) series all about some very awesome wolves.
It’s so hard to find an author that can write – and write well – about multiple species of shifters. Most are really good with one specifically — such as wolves, pumas, leopards etc — but lack the ability to give much insight to each ‘species’. Luckily this is not a problem for Spear. She really seems to have done her research. She knows the differences between red and grey wolves and masterfully inserts those differences into her writing. The characters exhibit qualities you would expect to find in wolves – whether in human or animal form. They react as the actual animal would most likely react (having never studied wolves, I can’t say this with certainty, but Spear is quite convincing). She builds the packs around intense characters and brings their animal traits into their human forms and vice versa. These characters are complex yet simple while still being relatable.
Once again I have found myself reading a book that wasn’t the first in the series, but Spear seems to be able to accomplish stand-alone-esque novels that still intertwine with the series as a whole. Although A Seal Wolf Christmas is the 12th in the series, the only time I felt like I should have read the other stories was when I finished and wanted to know more about certain escapades her characters referenced.
Navy SEAL Bjornolf Jorgenson had my attention from the first page. There’s just something about a man who is willing to do whatever it takes to keep the people he cares about safe that triggers some internal swoon in me. Add in several other alpha males, a strong woman who doesn’t take crap and a little mystery and intrigue and I’m not putting that story down.
Anna is one of those women you wish every author would write. She’s in no way a helpless female. I truly believe that’s why I was so drawn in by this story. Yes, many authors write strong women, but those strong women also tend to need saving – a lot. Anna is the kind of woman that is perfectly capable of saving herself.
To see these two very strong alpha personalities come together in a situation neither is comfortable with just adds to the chemistry brewing in the tale. Throw in a few curveballs along the way to make sure they don’t get too comfortable and you have one drag you in, hold you hostage story.
I’m not sure with what Spear has impressed me more – her ability to write complex animal characters, her ability to get someone like me to become engrossed in a series without starting at the beginning or just her overly compelling stories that leave you wanting more at the end.

Review: A Seal Wolf Christmas by Terry Spear

http://www.ilovevampirenovels.com

 *************************************

http://goodbadandunread.com/2013/12/11/review-a-seal-wolf-christmas-by-terry-spear/
I’m always surprised at how authors can keep coming up with fresh plot ideas and characters after numerous books in a series. This is Book 12 in Terry Spear’s werewolf series, and I’m still having as much fun with them as I did when I first began reading about them.
Bjornolf Jorgenson – yeah, say that ten times really fast! – is a lone wolf, a Navy SEAL who ghosts missions to make sure teams get in and out safe. He’s had a thing for Anna Johnson for some time, and when ghosting her current mission, Bjornolf breaks his own rule and lets her team know he’s there by helping out when he thinks Anna might be in jeopardy.
Rescuing a kidnapped family in the Amazon, Anna and her team have to be hyper vigilant when they begin to suspect everything is not as it seems in the jungle. They’re glad for Bjornolf’s assistance, and that leads to another mission where Anna and he will pose at newlyweds to investigate the murder of two wolves on a Christmas tree farm and also take care of the teen who discovered the crime.
It’s Bjornolf who wants more with Anna, so he jumps at the chance to work closely with her, despite her hesitancy. He needs to know what’s in her past that forces her to shut down, to shun the holiday season, especially after he opens up to her about his most traumatic moment of his younger days. When she refuses to let him in, he decides to take matters into his own hands, knowing it might hurt more than help.
However, as they grow closer living together during their mission, Anna begins to blossom with the festive feelings of Christmas and the loving attention of Bjornolf, as well as the timid and eager trust of a young teen who needs family so much. When she’s unexpectedly torn away from them by the hands of danger, Anna isn’t about to let this villain take everything away from her. Knowing Bjornolf will do everything in his power to find her, her training kicks in, only for them all to find out that more danger is still at their door.

*************************

Terry Spear brings paranormal fans a holiday story in the latest of her werewolf series,  A Seal Wolf Christmas. Navy SEAL Bjornolf is undercover as a newlywed with agent and wolf Anna, who drives him crazy. It doesn’t make anything easier that they have to pose as the aunt and uncle to an unruly teenage wolf. They travel from the Amazon to a Christmas tree farm in Oregon for answers in this funny and romantic adventure.Ho ho ho!! Nothing is better than a romance – except a romance set at Christmas Time! Join Amy Alessio as she tells us about her favorite holiday romances. http://romanceuniversity.org/2013/12/14/reader-roundup-holiday-romances-with-amy-alessio/

And now it’s time to get back to the work at hand–Jaguar Pride!

Terry
“Giving new meaning to the term alpha male where fantasy IS reality.”
www.terryspear.com

The Plumage Has It!

Sort of. I mean, she might be brown and more drab than the male of her species, but she needs to protect her little ones so being more brown, she can do so. While the male is strutting around, showing off his stuff.

Kind of like a Highlander in his kilt, eh?

The top picture was taken at the Omaha Zoo, and the one below, my daughter took when she was in Hawaii.

 Okay, I have Highlander's on the brain as I'm finishing up edits on two Highland stories. Hope you all aren't having really bad weather--and we aren't either.

 

New book reviews in: 

Review: A Seal Wolf Christmas

A SEAL Wolf Christmas (Heart of the Wolf - Book 12) by Terry Spear

Publication Date: 09/24/2013
Publisher: Sourcebooks
Imprint: Casablanca
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Pages: 320
ISBN-10: 140228408X
ISBN-13: 978-1402284083

(Received for an honest review from Sourcebooks Casablanca)

Purchase: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Book Depository, IndieBound

Terry Spear on the WEB: Website, Blog, Twitter, Goodreads

Books in the series:

Heart of the Wolf (2008), Destiny of the Wolf (2009), To Tempt the Wolf (2009), Legend of the White Wolf (2010), Seduced by the Wolf (2010), Wolf Fever (2010), Heart of the Highland Wolf (2011), Dreaming of the Wolf (2011), A SEAL in Wolf's Clothing (2012), A Howl for a Highlander (2013), A Highland Werewolf Wedding (2013), A SEAL Wolf Christmas (2013)

Coverart: Click the image for a larger, clearer view of the covers in this series.

Excerpt from A SEAL Wolf Christmas, courtesy of Amazon's Look Inside feature.

Synopsis:

Can an Alpha Wolf Who's Met His Match...

Navy SEAL Bjornolf Jorgenson has had tough missions before, but going undercover with feisty gray wolf Anna Johnson could top the list. She drives him crazy—in more ways than one. Now he has to investigate a murder, supervise a wild teenage wolf—and handle Christmas with Anna.

Survive the Holidays with Her?

For Anna, the only thing worse than staging the perfect family Christmas is having to do it with Bjornolf posing as her husband. Anna is a serious undercover operative who isn't afraid of a fight, even with a hunky SEAL shifter. With a killer on the loose, Anna just wants to focus on their mission, but the one thing she can't fight is her sizzling chemistry with Bjornolf.

Thoughts:

Terry Spear once again returns readers to the world of her Heart of the Wolf series with a Christmas treat, A SEAL Wolf Christmas. Spear's attention to detail and her remarkable research into pack dynamics and behaviors has made this a must read series for fans of paranormal romance. Her latest offering has mystery and danger, as well as, a good dose of the Christmas spirit. Spear's talent for writing compelling characters, with unrealistic abilities is exceptional. This author writes about the impossible and makes you believe every word!

The Heart of the Wolf series was one of the very first paranormal stories I read, when I decided to give the genre a go. I wasn't sure if I'd like it, if I would find it over-the-top or just too far fetched. I am so very glad that I chose this series to start with, because I think it made all the difference. Had I started with a series that was not as well written or researched, I may have given up on it all together and I very happy I did not. 

This series is written with such a great amount of authenticity. Terry Spear has done extensive research and it comes through on every page. Her shapeshifting werewolves act like real wolves, they are territorial and acquiesce to the alpha, they react like real wolves and they effect is mesmerizing. Readers who are looking for a werewolf series that has balance and sizzle, need look no further, the Heart of the Wolf series has it all. A SEAL Wolf Christmas may be the twelfth book in the series, but it doesn't look like Spear will be done telling her stories about this big extended wolf family any time soon!

 Fresh Fiction Review:

 

The Highlander, October 2013
by Terry Spear

CreateSpace
Featuring: Anora; Niall MacNeill
ISBN: 1492799491
EAN: 9781492799498
Kindle: B00FWG9F8A
e-Book
Add to Wish List

"Great characters, story, & a hot highlander!"

The Highlander
Terry Spear

Reviewed by Miranda Owen
Posted December 1, 2013

Romance Historical

THE HIGHLANDER by Terry Spear is Book 5 in this author's Highlandersseries. Niall MacNeill and his friend Gunnolf are charged with finding a certain Frenchwoman and escorting her to Niall's cousin, Laird James MacNeill, for her own protection. The lady's father had saved James' life once during the Crusades.
The search takes the warriors to the Lowlands of Scotland. At the opening of the book, Niall is just regaining his senses after he and Gunnolf were ambushed and attacked by Murray clansmen. He is grievously injured and there is no sign of his friend. He eventually makes his way to a cottage and rests.
When shepherdess Anora comes home, she finds that not only is there somebody sleeping in her bed, but he's also a very attractive half-naked man. Luckily for her, Niall is a good guy as well as being hot. There are some humorous scenes when they first meet, caused by the fact that Niall wants to keep her from alerting others of his presence while he heals -- a pitchfork is involved. Right away, Niall is impressed by Anora's nerve and then later, her kindness in taking care of him and his injuries. During his convalescence, he grows more and more attached to Anora, even as he suspects she's actually the woman he's seeking.


And Deidre's Secret is now available in Audiobook!

It dropped from 83 degrees to 28. That has to be a record! Back to work on the two Highland stories!


Terry
“Giving new meaning to the term alpha male where fantasy IS reality.”
www.terryspear.com

More News - Print Release & Reviews

Last week was busy with the release of Her Royal Masquerade. A blog tour had me hopping and eager nerves had me obsessing and hoping for a good response for a story different that what I've written in the past. It's early yet, but I have a couple 5 star reviews on Amazon and some great reviews from blog sites.

"Prince Vittorio and Mia suck you in from the first sentence and have you wanting to see how it can possibly work out for them to both end up happy. … Is happy for now enough? When the laws literally keep you from happily ever after, can you be content with a glimpse at true happiness? That is the big question for these two. I truly enjoyed the journey with these two. There is just something so special about both of them. … I truly hope y’all enjoy it as much as I have! :)"
~ Day Dreaming Book Reviews

“I have read and loved Natasha Moore’s stories with curvy heroines. After reading this book with a non-curvy heroine I must say that this author knows women of all sizes and makes it an obvious pleasure to read about them. Mia Holmberg is a sweet heroine whom I couldn’t help but admire. … Vittorio is a prime example of a royal Alpha male used to getting his way in all things and I enjoyed watching his struggle when things were not going as he’d anticipated. I’m looking forward to reading the next in the series and felt as if the author were teasing me with the brief preview so now it’s a countdown!!”
~ Venus Cahill 4.5 Stars!

Download from:
Amazon
B&N
iTunes


Also, next week, November 5th, is the print release of Silken Canvas. This is one of my favorite books, and the cover is absolutely gorgeous. So if you'd like a print copy of an erotic romance about "...a sexy, tortured artist, his gorgeous muse, and a string of pearls that creates one very erotic BDSM fantasy." you can pre-order now. OR you can download the e-book version right now! :)

Excerpt:
Brendan kept losing his focus as he shot pictures of the snakes slithering around Ashley’s body. He knew he should be seeing the whole picture. The lighting. The composition. The images he wanted to capture. The art he was creating.

Instead, he kept seeing the woman.

It could have had something to do with his tight jeans. He was so hard, it was damned uncomfortable to crouch down and get a good shot of the greedy snake trying for her center. He’d like to have his tongue there right now. He shifted to try to ease the pressure. Didn’t work.

He rose to his feet and zoomed in on her luscious lips. He swallowed, his mouth dry. He should be able to turn off his attraction to Ashley. Hell, he’d been attracted to most of his models. He’d even had sex with some of them despite what he’d told her. But when he had the camera in his hands, it had always been all about the art. The models ceased to be women and became his canvas.

So why did he find himself focusing on the pulse point at the base of Ashley’s pale throat? All he could think about was the way he’d pressed his lips there in the past and felt her pulse leap in response. He’d eagerly licked that tender spot, right there, where the green and gold snake appeared to slide over her body. He zoomed in on her throat, capturing the way the snake collared her.

“Lift your hair up. That’s right, stretch your arms high but keep your elbows back so I can get a clear shot of your throat. Can you feel the snake wrapped around your neck? Is his skin smooth or rough? Does his body ripple as he slithers along your throat? Does he nibble on your ear while he whispers those words of temptation you don’t want to hear?”

“Brendan…”

No, he didn’t want to hear her musical voice, the one he still heard in his sleep. “Shhh. I’ll be done soon. You can drop your arms. Clasp your hands behind your back.” He could tell she was tiring. He’d worked her hard and she’d complained very little. But he had to shake off this unsettling lack of concentration and finish the shoot.


Natasha
www.natashamoore.com

Fantastic Review for My Brave Highlander

I received a fantastic review from Laurie at Bitten By Paranormal Romance for My Brave Highlander. She rated it 5 - An alpha howl... and steamy! :)

"Vonda Sinclair never fails to entertain you with a page turning adventure and a sizzling romance. With her vivid imagination you’ll find her characters and story flows excellent together. This book is part of a series but they are all standalones.

I read the all three books in this series now and really enjoyed them, but this one has turned out to be my favorite of them all. I was engrossed with the story and romance between the hero and heroine, I just couldn’t turn the pages fast enough to see what was going to happen next. I hope that Jessie will one day get a story and Robbie too. There are so many great characters in this series I can see the author making it grow years to come. I highly recommend this to any romance reader." Laurie - Bitten By Paranormal Romance

Thanks so much, Laurie!!

Also for the last couple of days, My Brave Highlander has been on the Historical Romance and Historical Fiction Bestseller lists at Amazon! Woohoo!! :)

Here is an excerpt of the first scene...

This story takes place in Scotland in November 1618.

Dirk MacKay urged his horse into a gallop along the narrow, muddy road that led from Draughon Castle toward Perth. Praying he wouldn't be too late to see his father alive one last time, he squinted against the cool, misty rain stinging his eyes.

The meager light of dawn hidden behind thick, leaden clouds provided little illumination. Greenish-brown hills dotted with grazing sheep and rolling beige grain fields sped by on either side of the road. Tulloch carried him closer to the thatched-roof stone crofters' cottages situated before a small wood of bare-limbed trees. A faint white mist hung over the massive River Tay, hidden amongst the bushes in the distance.

Dirk hoped he'd slipped away before his two friends knew what he was about. They would insist on going with him and he couldn't allow them to make such a sacrifice.

Lachlan was recently married and a newly titled earl and chief. He would be daft to accompany Dirk on a dangerous trek through the snowy Highlands to the edge of the earth, leaving his wife and clan to fend for themselves.

Although Robert "Rebbie" MacInnis, Earl of Rebbinglen, was a Highlander with naught to tie him down, Dirk wouldn't put his life in danger, either.

It wasn't simply the severe cold weather of the north that made Dirk worry over his friends' safety. A murderer lurked amongst his clansmen… a murderer who wanted Dirk dead, and wouldn't bat an eye at killing one of his friends, as well. He shook his head. Nay, he'd done the right thing by not asking Lachlan or Rebbie to risk their lives by traveling with him to Durness.

The three of them had been near inseparable for the past few years, but Dirk needed to handle this on his own. He'd been living in limbo for twelve years, and now it was time to return to his real life… to follow his destiny.

Behind him, quick, rhythmic hoof-beats pounded the road and spattered through puddles. A sharp whistle pierced the chill, wet air. Dirk glanced back to find a dark-haired, black-cloaked man following him.

Rebbie.

"Damnation." How had he known? Dirk slowed his horse, then halted and turned to face his approaching friend. Tulloch, snorting at the interruption to his gleeful run, danced about beneath him. "Whoa, lad," Dirk said, trying to calm the horse.

When Rebbie drew up and stopped beside him, Dirk asked, "Where are you going?"

"A better question is where are you going? You left without a word. Luckily, I heard the floorboards creaking as you slipped past my chamber this morn. Does it have aught to do with that missive you received last evening?"

"I'm in no need of help," Dirk said, skirting the disconcerting question.

Rebbie's black brows lowered. "Even if you did need help, you're likely too proud to ask for it. What's happened to cause you to slip away like this?"

"I must return home without delay." And, nay, it was not pride that kept him from asking for help. There were some things a man must face on his own.

Rebbie tugged on the reins of his fidgeting, temperamental bay. "Why?"

Gazing north, Dirk observed the mist-cloaked, brownish mountains in the distance. He would have to travel far beyond them to reach home. "An urgent family matter."

"Of what sort?"

"Damnation, Rebbie. Must you always ask a thousand questions?" Dirk hated the way his chest tightened every time he thought about the loss he might face once he returned to the castle where he grew up. The regret. The fear. If he hurried, he might still have time to see his father alive. "'Twould take too long to explain it now. I must be on my way."

Rebbie's frown deepened and his steady gaze grew darker. "How far are you traveling?"

Dirk hesitated, unsure whether he wanted to blurt out the truth. His friends thought he was someone he was not, but 'twas time to face facts. 'Twould no doubt spawn numerous other questions from his inquisitive friend. But there was no point in lying anymore. He was coming out of hiding and taking the bull by the horns—for a certainty, his life would be in danger once he reached Castle Dunnakeil.

"I'm going home to Durness," Dirk said, feeling more like his true self than he had in years.

"Saints, man!" Rebbie exclaimed. His horse flicked his ears and turned in an agitated circle. "That's where you're from? I thought the MacLeries were from Strathspey."

"Aye." His mother's clan lived in that area and he had spent much time there. But his true name wasn't MacLerie. It was MacKay. He couldn't tell Rebbie that now or he'd ask a thousand more prying questions.

Rebbie waited for Dirk to explain, and when he didn't, Rebbie raised a brow. "Durness, aye?"

Dirk nodded, a sudden gust of wind whipping his damp hair into his eyes.

"Well, at least come back to the keep for a few minutes. Lachlan can provide supplies, food and wool blankets. In this weather, 'twill take a long while to travel to Durness."

"I'm well aware. My plan is to ride west, through Stirling, then head up the west coast by galley or ship. If the weather is decent, I can travel most of the way by sea." But the wind and rain, which had been near unnoticeable when he'd left Draughon Castle a quarter hour ago, was now turning into a gale.

"I'm coming with you," Rebbie said, his determined jaw hardening.

Rebbie was a proficient and skilled former soldier, up to any battle that might come their way, but the harsh Highland winter was a different matter, and so was the murderer. "Nay, I think it best if you stay here and help Lachlan."

"Och! 'Tis not safe for anyone, even someone so fearsome and trained as you, to travel that far alone. There are highwaymen, savage pirates and outlaws. Sometimes large bands of them." Rebbie's brown eyes narrowed, giving him the look of the pirates he talked about. "Come. Let's discuss it back at Draughon, out of this rain. Rushing off unprepared will be of little help. You need supplies. Extra wool clothing."

Dirk's stomach clenched with dread. 'Haps his friend was right. He'd planned to buy supplies in Perth or Stirling. But taking them from here might be more practical; he wouldn't have to waste time looking for the items he would need.

"Very well." It was still early morn. If they didn't tarry too long, they could make much progress today.

They quickly rode back to massive Draughon Castle with its four, round, gray stone towers and large rectangular keep. The guards at the black iron gates allowed them entrance to the high-walled, stone-paved barmkin. They circled around the side of one tower to the stables.

Rebbie swung down, his feet landing with a clunk on the cobblestones. "Prepare our horses, along with two more, for a long journey," he told the stable lad.

"Two more?" Dirk asked, dismounting. "Lachlan can't leave Lady Angelique and his clan."

"I ken it, but the two of us will need servants to care for the horses, run errands and such."

Dirk rolled his eyes at the coddled nobleman. "I have no servants. And the fewer in our party the better."

Rebbie waved him off. "We'll discuss it later."

The two of them proceeded around the side and up the front steps of the keep.

Once inside the expansive, two-story great hall, Dirk approached the massive burning fireplace near the high table to warm his back, while Rebbie sent his manservant, George, to wake Lachlan. Dirk ran his gaze over the large tapestries depicting Drummagan family history that decorated the walls. They reminded him of the ones at Dunnakeil.

Female servants lit candles and carried food up from the ground level kitchens, preparing for breakfast at the long wooden tables.

Rebbie and Dirk pilfered a couple of buttered bannocks while they waited.

A few moments later, Lachlan MacGrath-Drummagan, wearing a belted plaid, emerged from the narrow turnpike stairway. "Angelique is sick," he murmured for their ears only.

"What's wrong?" Dirk asked.

"Nausea, vomiting."

Dirk and Rebbie exchanged a concerned but curious glance.

"'Haps she is with child," Rebbie suggested.

"Aye." Lachlan gave a wee joyful grin. "I'm hoping that's what it is." His sandy-blond hair glinting in the candlelight, he glanced back at the stairs briefly, making it clear he wanted to be up in the bedchamber with her. Facing forward again, he asked, "What are you two doing? Looks like you've been out riding in the rain."

"Aye, Dirk is headed to Durness and I'm accompanying him," Rebbie said. "We need provisions and supplies, if you can spare them. Wool blankets, mantles and enough food for a sennight."

"God's teeth!" Lachlan's light brown eyes widened. "Why in blazes would you need to go to the far north?"

"I'm not entirely certain." Rebbie looked to Dirk.

 My Brave Highlander copyright 2012 Vonda Sinclair

Thanks!!

Vonda
www.vondasinclair.com

New Review for My Wild Highlander

I found a review I hadn't seen before for My Wild Highlander. It was posted in January. I know, I'm slow in finding these things! LOL Anyway, it was such a wonderful review, (5 Delightful Divas and a Recommended Read!) I wanted to share it here. It's from Dark Divas Reviews.

"If you love a highland romance like I do, you won’t want to miss My Wild Highlander! As I live and breathe, Ms. Sinclair has the know-how and a definite knack for writing highland romances. I always fall in love with her heroes immediately and then, of course, I just can’t put her books down. Nor can I wait for the next one and I’m like a cat on a hot tin roof, impatiently waiting for yet one more hunky hero.

The hero and heroine in My Wild Highlander are highly argumentative, but wildly romantic (which I love!). Lachlan is very protective of Angelique, but really doesn’t want a wife, which make for fun times between the two of them. For a while, the kisses are few, but when they happen, they’re explosive. Lachlan always wants more, but Angelique doesn’t. She’s perfectly fine with just his kisses, but it’s very comical to see Lachlan “warm” Angelique to his desires. He’s a real charmer and you’ll adore him from the start.

The sex doesn’t happen right away, but the journey to that final marital consummation is well worth reading. Lachlan finally seduces her and Angelique finds out just how wild her highland husband can be (ooh la la)! The by-play between the characters is comical and the sex is smokin’ hot. There were many times I got that hot-and-bothered feeling and who wants to read a romance without some of that? Ms. Sinclair is one of my new favorite authors and this one will nab you for sure. Yep, it’s a keeper!

Rated 5 Delightful Divas and a Recommended Read by Shelly!"

---

Thanks so much, Shelly!! :) And thanks, everyone, for checking out my review!
Vonda
www.vondasinclair.com

Romantic Times review for My Fierce Highlander!

I was thrilled to get this review today from RT Book Reviews! It's in the June issue.

My Fierce Highlander

Vonda Sinclair

4 stars  HOT

Setting: 1600s Scotland

The mystical 1600s are the perfect backdrop for this hot and heavy historical romance. The romance between Gwyneth and Alasdair is absolutely believable and gets the heart racing from the moment they meet. Sinclair has done a wonderful job of crafting a truly interesting plot.

SUMMARY: Healer Gwyneth only wants peace. She longs to leave the Highlands before her son is old enough to fight for the evil Donald MacIrwin. After a skirmish, Gwyneth cares for the laird of the MacGrath clan — a family that has had a 200-year-old feud with the MacIrwins. As the tides turn, and Gwyneth must flee with her son to save their lives, she’s taken in by Alasdair MacGrath, the man whose life she saved. She receives his protection and works to bring her son to freedom before it’s too late. vondasinclair.com

Amy Lignor

My Fierce Highlander - ebook - print

Also available for Nook, Apple, etc.

Wonderful Reviews from The Pen & Muse

Denise at The Pen & Muse Book Reviews recently reviewed both my books. I was thrilled that she gave them each five stars at Amazon. Thanks so much, Denise!!

My Wild Highlander by Vonda Sinclair.

"If you love highlanders, steamy love scenes, great characters, and action then you will love My Wild Highlander by Vonda Sinclair. One of my favorite historical romance authors, I couldn’t pass it up when she asked me to read her work. Lachlan MacGrath is such a great hero character, he encompasses compassion, lover, and warrior all in one. He is a man of his word, no wonder he’s well loved among the women! Lady Angelique and Lachlan compliment each other although Angelique finds it hard to love such a man until she gets to know him. Angelique is also hiding a very hard past and Lachlan wants to know more about her without hurting her. It’s such the perfect story for two people with different pasts coming together. I don’t want to give away the rest of the book, so you’ll have to read it. Those who love historical romances with lots of passion, heart, amazing characters, action, and lots of love will love Sinclair’s My Wild Highlander."  Denise at The Pen & Muse

About the book: Lady Angelique Drummagan, a half-Scottish, half-French countess, has suffered much pain and betrayal in her past. She wants nothing to do with the sensual Scottish warrior that the king has ordered her to marry because the rogue could never be a faithful husband, but she has little choice in the matter. Dangerous, greedy enemies threaten her from all sides and she’s in dire need of his protection.

Sir Lachlan MacGrath, known as Seducer of the Highlands, possesses a charming wickedness and canny wit which has earned him much popularity. After the king decrees that he wed the fiery hellion, Lachlan discovers there is one woman who can resist him—Angelique. Can he break through her icy façade and melt her heart, or will the dark secrets lurking in her past not only cost them their future together, but their very lives?

My Wild Highlander is available at:

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
All Romance eBooks
Smashwords
Kobo
iTunes/ Apple
Sony

Review of My Fierce Highlander by The Pen & Muse

"If you love highlanders, steamy love scenes, great characters, and action then you will love My Fierce Highlander. You will instantly fall in love with Laird Alasdair MacGrath! He’s a great warrior, person, and of course he’s a highlander! Alasdair is driven to end two-hundred years of feuding with the MacIrwins and to protect the women who is healing and protecting him, Lady Gwyneth. Lady Gwyneth has a past of her own and her own son, due to the feuding this past will appear to damage the both of them. So who will she choose? The man she loves or her son? For any woman it’s a hard decision to make and this is a story you won’t want to miss! Beautifully written by Sinclair, you will be transported back in time to witness a great love story of courage and sacrifice. Be sure to catch Sinclair’s other Highlander novels, I sure won’t! She is one of my favorites for a reason!" Denise at The Pen & Muse

About the book: Gwyneth Carswell, an English lady banished by her father to the harsh Scottish Highlands, wants nothing more than to take her young son away from the violence of two fighting clans–her own distant kin, the MacIrwins, and their enemies, the MacGraths. She risks everything to rescue the fierce MacGrath warrior from the battlefield where he’s left for dead by her clan. She only knows she is inexplicably drawn to him and he wants peace as she does. When her clan learns of her betrayal, they seek vengeance. Dare she trust the enemy more than her own family?

Laird Alasdair MacGrath is driven to end two-hundred years of feuding with the MacIrwins. But by taking in and protecting Lady Gwyneth and her son, he provokes more attacks from his mortal enemy. As the danger and conflict surrounding them escalate, Alasdair and Gwyneth discover an explosive passion neither of them expected. With the arrival of a powerful man from her past, a horrible decision confronts her–give up her son or the man she loves.

My Fierce Highlander is available at:

Amazon
B&N
Smashwords
All Romance eBooks
iTunes/ Apple
Kobo
Sony


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Thanks!!!!
Vonda

5 Hoots... "refreshingly new perspective"

Hi, everyone, I had an awesome review from Nocturne Romance Reads that I wanted to share with you.

Blade of the Wolf – Nicole North
Ellora’s Cave
Paranormal
5 Hoots

Review: Blade of the Wolf is a sizzling adventure and sated even my infinite fantasy for hot Scottish werewolves. This is not your run of the mill romantic urban fantasy, which I greatly appreciated. I was mesmerized by this refreshingly new perspective on the normally redundant paranormal romance/shapeshifter genre.

The development of all the character’s individually, as well as, cumulatively is exquisitely in-depth. Who could resist the yummy immortal Scottish Sgian Dubh Guardian, Ronan Graeme. He is the bad boy with the heart of gold. Syrena Ellis, a voluptuous psychic, is the forbidden fruit Ronan never knew he craved. She is the perfect counterpart to his serious nature. The sexual tension and erotic fantasies is orgasmic. The ardent attraction between Ronan and Syrena is instantaneous. What made it believable is the gradual building of the bond, despite their burning desires and intense emotions. This made the erotic scenes that much hotter. As I progressed through the book, I could feel my temperature rising to match Syrena and Ronan’s blazing passion.

Even with a heat index of scorching hot; the story wasn’t just about the carnal delights. I was surprised it had such a multifaceted, suspenseful plot. The villain is the most intriguing character. This is my first encounter with a hybrid vampire incubus. At least for me; this is uncharted or rarely explored territory. It definitely gave Blade of the Wolf a unique and exciting twist. All and all; this is a positively arousing and climactic story that I will read again.

Hats off to Nicole North for a superb job creating an edgy and erotic paranormal romance!
Reviewed by Kyami

Thanks so much, Kyami!!!

Summary: Blade of the Wolf

Ronan, immortal werewolf and Scottish Sgian Dubh Guardian, faces his most challenging, yet enticing, mission in centuries. He must protect sexy clairvoyant medium Syrena Ellis from an evil incubus intent on stealing her powerful life force. She awakens a raging arousal in Ronan, but if he gives in to temptation, he will be punished. Dark and edgy, Ronan captivates Syrena. He is hot, hard and in control, yet his scorching glances and sinful kisses tell her he yearns for her. Even though she’s only a job, she finds a way past his iron-willed resistance. She’s determined to explore the depths of erotic passion with him. They’re unaware that their explosive sexual encounters are providing the enemy incubus with heightened energy, making him almost impossible to defeat. Syrena’s forbidden desire and scorching lust for Ronan could destroy them both.

Blade of the Wolf is available at Ellora's Cave, Amazon, B&N and other online booksellers.

Happy Holidays, everyone!
Nicole
www.nicolenorth.com