The Azure Kingdom By Michelle Dare

The Azure Kingdom

By: Michelle Dare

I sought out Michelle myself, because I had been following her on facebook, and reading about her books, and I found them all enticing. I also ‘love’ her name. And so, I went to her on my own, and offered up my services, and she was ready for the ‘dare’ if you will. I allowed her to choose which book we would review, giving her the benefit of exposure. 

So let’s learn about the “The Azure Kingdom” shall we?

Alison Wescot’s mother died, and left her an antique store. This didn’t impress Alison much, to her these were just lame antiques, and all she had left of her mother. She fidgeted around, looking at the items, and sulking. A customer  came upon a box with a key inside, and a letter from her mother. Alison was puzzled, because she could’ve sworn she knew every inch of this store.

The letter from her mother explains of another realm, and the fact that her father never did leave her. Ali is baffled as she reads this, it is just so much to take in. This other world, the death of her mother, and now learning her father never left her. She is the daughter of Rafe Pine? The thoughts were just racing through Alison’s head. And the realm could be found in her mother’s closet. This seemed so unreal, like a dream, or even a fantasy. 

Later that day, Alison races up the steps in her home, two at a time, to see if this even remotely real. And she learns the fake wall, is in fact real. She isn’t sure if she wants to, or even should do this. But we all know, eventually she will.

And the day Alison finally walks through the door, and enters “The Azure Kingdom” is the day her recurring dreams turn into a reality. 

She meets Lucas Azure, the kingdoms elite guard and whose only purpose is to protect his people and their territory. Lucas is the youngest of the King’s four children, and of course- the deadliest. He knew once Alison appeared, he had to protect her at all costs. And he knew, one day, she would arrive.

This book, was everything I wanted it to be, and more. Which Michelle promised me, it would fascinate me, and satisfy my every need. It did just that, and more. “The Azure Kingdom” is a whole new style of read for me, and a definite five star read. I loved how the realms came into play, it was very unique, and would make for a great movie! I could so visualize this perfectly, and loved reading it, that I am certain I will be rereading it again, that is just how much I enjoyed it!

My Questions for Michelle:

1. What made you write this book and how long did it take you?

I've always wanted to write a fantasy book and am so glad I took the leap and did it. The book took me three weeks to write.

2. Who designed the beautiful cover?

Jennifer from J.M Rising Horse Creations - https://www.facebook.com/RisingHorseCreations

3. Do you have photos or descriptions of your characters?

I modeled my characters after the couple on the cover. The cover was actually designed before I had started writing the story. Only the blurb was done. The couple was perfect for Luke and Ali.

4. Does the key look different then most keys, meaning is it fancy and beautiful or just a plain key? And was her Mothers letter written in the most beautiful cursive imaginable?

The key is gorgeous. Beautiful and ancient. Gold with tiny leaves on the teeth and a crown surround by swirls on the top. Not your average skeleton key. For me, the letter was something her mother wrote out when she found out she was sick. Very neat, clear cursive.

5. What are you working on now?

I have a new adult romance standalone that's in the editing phase which will release in September. I'm also starting book two in this fantasy series. The Azure Kingdom was originally a standalone, but I've decided to keep it going. Book two will be Oliver's story.

6. What all education have you had?

I'm a high school graduate, but never went to college.

7. What are your hobbies?

I don't have a lot of down time, but when I do, I love to spend time with my family, read, and watch movies.

8. What drives you to write?

The characters. They talk to me all the time, demanding their story be told. And when I write, I get lost in the world I'm creating. I love that I can make a story, characters, a town, everything up from scratch. It's amazing.

9. What is your favorite book of all time?

That's way too hard to choose. There are so many amazing books out there and I read all different genres.

10. Please provide for us your social media and book links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authormichelledare

Facebook Fan Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/daresdivas/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/michelle_dare

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michelle_dare/

Website: http://michelledare.com/

Newsletter Sign-Up: http://eepurl.com/bt14zX

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/michelledare

iBooks: http://apple.co/2ay3RgV

B&N: http://bit.ly/2apxKQX

Kobo: http://bit.ly/28VqBsS

Website: http://michelledare.com/

Newsletter Sign-Up: http://eepurl.com/bt14zX

Snagged from facebook!

11. Anything to add:

Thank you so much for reading and reviewing The Azure Kingdom! I really appreciate it!

The Azure Kingdom by Michelle Dare
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I sought out Michelle myself, because I had been following her on facebook, and reading about her books, and I found them all enticing. I also ‘love’ her name. And so, I went to her on my own, and offered up my services, and she was ready for the ‘dare’ if you will. I allowed her to choose which book we would review, giving her the benefit of exposure.

So let’s learn about the “The Azure Kingdom” shall we?

Alison Wescot’s mother died, and left her an antique store. This didn’t impress Alison much, to her these were just lame antiques, and all she had left of her mother. She fidgeted around, looking at the items, and sulking. A customer came upon a box with a key inside, and a letter from her mother. Alison was puzzled, because she could’ve sworn she knew every inch of this store.

The letter from her mother explains of another realm, and the fact that her father never did leave her. Ali is baffled as she reads this, it is just so much to take in. This other world, the death of her mother, and now learning her father never left her. She is the daughter of Rafe Pine? The thoughts were just racing through Alison’s head. And the realm could be found in her mother’s closet. This seemed so unreal, like a dream, or even a fantasy.

Later that day, Alison races up the steps in her home, two at a time, to see if this even remotely real. And she learns the fake wall, is in fact real. She isn’t sure if she wants to, or even should do this. But we all know, eventually she will.

And the day Alison finally walks through the door, and enters “The Azure Kingdom” is the day her recurring dreams turn into a reality.

She meets Lucas Azure, the kingdoms elite guard and whose only purpose is to protect his people and their territory. Lucas is the youngest of the King’s four children, and of course- the deadliest. He knew once Alison appeared, he had to protect her at all costs. And he knew, one day, she would arrive.

This book, was everything I wanted it to be, and more. Which Michelle promised me, it would fascinate me, and satisfy my every need. It did just that, and more. “The Azure Kingdom” is a whole new style of read for me, and a definite five star read. I loved how the realms came into play, it was very unique, and would make for a great movie! I could so visualize this perfectly, and loved reading it, that I am certain I will be rereading it again, that is just how much I enjoyed it!



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The Scorpion By John A. Autero

The Scorpion

By John A. Autero

Mr. Autero sought me out, and when I read the details on this book, I knew my readers would enjoy the insight on this book titled: “The Scorpion” because, it is a truly eye opening read!

So let’s get started shall we:

You know how you watch the news, thinking that you want to know what’s going around you, and the rest of the World? This book will enlighten you.

Within this book, there are these three friends who discover something. Something they probably shouldn’t have. 

From the first sentence, I was drawn to Jerry. His character is very outgoing and the kind of person who is always wanting to learn and know more. He is also someone who believes he's doing the right thing.

As I began reading this book, I knew I would keep reading it, and had to know what was going on, because Jerry wanted me to know.

Now Tom, he kept trying to keep Jerry calm, and focused. But that didn’t always work, because of Jerry and his determination. Jerry just had his mind set, and that was it. Calm just wasn’t something he could do. But it still didn’t stop Tom, from trying.

Now mind you, Tom and Jerry…(Oh I just now noticed that, I didn’t before until I typed this. LOL) are not two of three friends. Ok?

The three friends are Bruce, Pete and Dean. These three stumbled upon an underwater evacuation site and refinery, which processes a brand new energy source. They can’t seem to learn who built this site, nor what the fuel is or was used for. 

Then they learn that on December 26, 2004 something happened. Through their shocking finds these people learn that some things aren’t legal, and some things are. But just because they are legal, that just doesn’t make them right. 

These three learn some extremely shocking things, and risk exposing the evidence they find, and causing turmoil and making it public. 

The thrill of the chase is in this book, the race against time, this book, wow. “The Scorpion” just made me gasp. I mean, we know there are secrets out there, you know it, I know it. But to read it written and how and what happens while creating, and hiding, and making secrets. 

This was truly a five star amazing read. Just astounding. You need to read this now!

Here are my questions for Mr. Autero:

1. What made you write this book and how long did it take you?

I have written a number of technical articles for engineering magazines over the years and always found the activity quite enjoyable. About four years ago, I had the idea to write something a bit more creative and came up with the idea to write my first fiction book called “Footprints”. I enjoyed creating it but I thought I could do a better job with the storyline and my writing technique so I decided to write a second book. “The Scorpion” came about as a way to continue writing and with the goal of improving my technique. It took me about one year to write “The Scorpion”.

2. Who designed this cool cover?

I created the cover. I set up some old electronic components on a table in my basement and then had my wife take some pictures. I used graphic software and created the rest. That’s me sitting at the table next to the microphone. Funny story… I made the cover for “Footprints” as well. If you take a look, that’s me inside that gas mask and head phones. When I asked my wife to take pictures of me in that get-up, she thought I was nuts.

3. Did you do any research for this book?

Sure. I wanted to blend real life happenings into the storyline to make it more believable. I primarily used Google to track down articles and then used the facts to help build the storyline of the book. I don’t want to give specific details here, as not to spoil any of the story for the readers.

4. What gives you the desire to write?

I really like it when readers enjoy my work. When I hear them say “I didn’t see that coming!” or “I was on the edge of my seat to find out what happened and couldn’t stop reading!” it makes me happy. It gives me hope that what I’m creating is worth reading and that my skills are getting better.

5. What all education have you had?

I earned my Associate’s degree in Electrical Automated Systems at Joliet Junior College in Joliet, IL and my Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL.

6. What is your favorite book of all time?

For this question, two answers come to mind. When I was a kid I read “A Wrinkle in Time” and I thought it was wonderful. I still do. When I was in college, I read “The Princess Bride” and thought it was great as well. I found both stories to be imaginative and thought provoking. I guess the thing I like the most was how they drew me into the story where I sort of forget where I was at the moment. I hope that someday, one of my books could do the same thing to a reader out there.

7. What are you working on now?

I’m writing a who-done-it that takes place on a decontamination depot in the middle of outer space. It has twists and turns like “The Scorpion” but is set in a harsh, dark industrial world on a depot between Earth and Mars. Terrible things have happened on Earth and humanity has to flee to Mars to save the species. A ring of decontamination depots have been placed in space around Mars to act as a checkpoint for Earth transports headed for Mars. The plan is to prevent the nasty stuff that is happening on Earth from getting to Mars. The crew aboard the depot receives a visit from a transport with some pretty shady characters onboard. Things happen. Bad things. Who is doing them? And why? Stay tuned for more.

8. Do you think this book could make an awesome movie? Cuz I sure do!

Funny you say that. I watch quite a few indie movies and I frequently dream that “The Scorpion” might end up on the screen as well. I have even picked a few actors who could fill the rolls of the characters in “The Scorpion”. If I saw a credit roll onto the screen that said “Based on the novel ‘The Scorpion’ by John A. Autero” I’d be very proud.

9. Do you have any photos to go along with this book?

10. Please include your social media and book links:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24860887-the-scorpion

https://www.amazon.com/Scorpion-John-Autero-ebook/dp/B00U3UD9GO/ref=sr_1_1_twi_kin_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1471024066&sr=1-1&keywords=john+a.+autero#nav-subnav

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-scorpion-john-a-autero/1121331671?ean=2940046606003

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/523443

@JohnAAutero

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRChkkLfNkognazol_V0iIA

11 Anything extra to add:

Thank you for the opportunity to do this!

The Scorpion by John A. Autero
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mr. Autero sought me out, and when I read the details on this book, I knew my readers would enjoy the insight on this book titled: “The Scorpion” because, it is a truly eye opening read!


So let’s get started shall we:

You know how you watch the news, thinking that you want to know what’s going around you, and the rest of the World? This book will enlighten you.

Within this book, there are these three friends who discover something. Something they probably shouldn’t have.

From the first sentence, I was drawn to Jerry. His character is very outgoing and the kind of person who is always wanting to learn and know more. He is also someone who believes he's doing the right thing.

As I began reading this book, I knew I would keep reading it, and had to know what was going on, because Jerry wanted me to know.

Now Tom, he kept trying to keep Jerry calm, and focused. But that didn’t always work, because of Jerry and his determination. Jerry just had his mind set, and that was it. Calm just wasn’t something he could do. But it still didn’t stop Tom, from trying.

Now mind you, Tom and Jerry…(Oh I just now noticed that, I didn’t before until I typed this. LOL) are not two of three friends. Ok?

The three friends are Bruce, Pete and Dean. These three stumbled upon an underwater evacuation site and refinery, which processes a brand new energy source. They can’t seem to learn who built this site, nor what the fuel is or was used for.

Then they learn that on December 26, 2004 something happened. Through their shocking finds these people learn that some things aren’t legal, and some things are. But just because they are legal, that just doesn’t make them right.

These three learn some extremely shocking things, and risk exposing the evidence they find, and causing turmoil and making it public.

The thrill of the chase is in this book, the race against time, this book, wow. “The Scorpion” just made me gasp. I mean, we know there are secrets out there, you know it, I know it. But to read it written and how and what happens while creating, and hiding, and making secrets.

This was truly a five star amazing read. Just astounding. You need to read this now!



View all my reviews

Stripped Bounty By Dorothy F. Shaw

Stripped Bounty

By: Dorothy F. Shaw

As most of you may already know, Dorothy is one of my most favorite Authors out there. She is one of the very few who can make me…um imagine what I am reading physically, and keep me wanting more.

Today I come to you with a brand new book released today, August 9, 2016 called “Stripped Bounty.” And wish to share my details of how this book landed on my palette.

Rosie had a husband, and he was a drug running bad boy. Now she works at Deuce’s strip club, since her husband has died, hoping to make a new and fresh start. The money sure seems easy enough with her body. 

While on the pole often, Rose would gaze into the audience. She would see Badger the head bouncer, watching her, and she would often admire his masculine body. Although to Rosie, Badger just seemed like a dangerous hunk. She just wasn’t into that.

Badger would love to find out what Rosie is like, but he somehow feels she is just like all of the other women at Deuce’s. But something about her sexy body parts, they just keep calling to him, which he just can’t look away, no matter how hard he tries. 

The thing about Badger that is different from most, is that he is one that likes his women submissive. But some woman like that, don’t they?

Once Badger finally gets his prize, Rosie into his bed, low and behold the dead husband’s killer comes back into the picture. But now it’s too late, because Rosie has bonded with Badger, and he wants to keep her all to himself. And in order to do so, he must also keep her safe. 

If you know Dorothy, you know you will require a B.O.B. (Battery operated boyfriend) or a man, once you have completed this book, if not during. Her books are made and written to satisfy you, in every sense of the way. “Stripped Bounty” as with any and all of Dorothy’s books, is a five star read. This is a beautiful love story with shoot ‘em ups, and all. I loved every inch of this book, and as always I will be awaiting the next book by Dorothy’s book. 

My questions for Dorothy:

1. What made you write this and how long did it take you?

I actually plotted the story about 5 or so years ago, but it sat it my files waiting to be written until last year. It took me just over three months to write the book. 

2. Who designed the cover of this book?

The cover artist is Kelli Martin. The spine and back cover for the print version was added by my ex-husband, Terry "Wookie" Hoffman

3. Do you have any photos or descriptions of your characters?

Here’s a good image of Rosie. She’s tall, slender, and all natural. Long dark hair - in my head she is quite beautiful, and this stock photo, is very close to what I see her as in my head.

I don’t have an image of Badger, other than what you see on the cover. But…here’s the description in my head:

Dark hair, some salt and pepper. Close cropped. Thick beard, salt and pepper as well. Light brown eyes. Chiseled jaw. Laugh lines around

eyes. 6’2”. 230 bulky muscled frame. And tattoos. Yum, right? 

4. What makes you desire to write?

This is a hard question to answer. I’ve come to a point in my writing that I can’t NOT write. It’s a thing inside of me that I have both a love and hate relationship with. Writing has been the hardest thing I have ever done - but I would never want to stop. 

5. What is your favorite book of all time?

‘Walk Through Cold Fire” by Cyn Dforshay-Lunsford - This book changed me. 

6. What is your favorite book of your own that you have written?

Stripped Bounty is by far my most favorite book written. I’m not just saying that because its just released either. Truly, this book was hard for me to write. Its different than my normal romance book, and at times I felt like I couldn’t finish it. At one point, I even felt like I hated the book. But now? Now, I love it. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE IT. 

7. Have you ever met any Authors IRL? If so please share with us your favorite meeting of one of your RL meetings of a fellow Author:

I have had the honor and privilege of meeting more authors than I can count. And I’ve also gotten to meet my most favorite author. I don’t normally get fangirly when I meet an author, but when I met my MOST favorite, J.R. Ward, I was tongue tied, and nervous and grateful I hadn’t had breakfast. The coolest part about meeting her, was that she remembered me from a former nickname I used to use from her online book signings. 

I thought I might die... 

8. What all have you learned thus far from your writing career?

That just writing the book is only the beginning. The marketing, and the work and time it takes to promote that book (after all the work was done to edit it and get it to market) is something I was not prepared for. 

9. What are you working on now?

I’m about to get back to writing book 4 in The Donnellys - Jaded Heart 

10. What all education have you had?

High school and some college. I am a bonafide "climb the corporate ladder" girl. Some call me Tenacious. I think it probably fits me. 

11. Please share with us your social media and book links:

http://www.dorothyfshaw.com/

https://www.facebook.com/DorothyFShaw

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDorothyFShaw/

https://twitter.com/DorothyFShaw

Buy links for Stripped Bounty:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Stripped-Bounty-Dorothy-F-Shaw-ebook/dp/B01J26O6NE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469678449&sr=8-1&keywords=stripped+bounty#nav-subnav

Barnes and Noble: (Coming soon. I’ll have this available at midnight on the 9th.)

        iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/stripped-bounty/id1137853216?mt=11

Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/stripped-bounty

12. Anything to add:

Wolf is getting his own book. *Wink* 

Stripped Bounty by Dorothy F. Shaw
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As most of you may already know, Dorothy is one of my most favorite Authors out there. She is one of the very few who can make me…um imagine what I am reading physically, and keep me wanting more.

Today I come to you with a brand new book released today, August 9, 2016 called “Stripped Bounty.” And wish to share my details of how this book landed on my palette.

Rosie had a husband, and he was a drug running bad boy. Now she works at Deuce’s strip club, since her husband has died, hoping to make a new and fresh start. The money sure seems easy enough with her body.

While on the pole often, Rose would gaze into the audience. She would see Badger the head bouncer, watching her, and she would often admire his masculine body. Although to Rosie, Badger just seemed like a dangerous hunk. She just wasn’t into that.

Badger would love to find out what Rosie is like, but he somehow feels she is just like all of the other women at Deuce’s. But something about her sexy body parts, they just keep calling to him, which he just can’t look away, no matter how hard he tries.

The thing about Badger that is different from most, is that he is one that likes his women submissive. But some woman like that, don’t they?

Once Badger finally gets his prize, Rosie into his bed, low and behold the dead husband’s killer comes back into the picture. But now it’s too late, because Rosie has bonded with Badger, and he wants to keep her all to himself. And in order to do so, he must also keep her safe.

If you know Dorothy, you know you will require a B.O.B. (Battery operated boyfriend) or a man, once you have completed this book, if not during. Her books are made and written to satisfy you, in every sense of the way. “Stripped Bounty” as with any and all of Dorothy’s books, is a five star read. This is a beautiful love story with shoot ‘em ups, and all. I loved every inch of this book, and as always I will be awaiting the next book by Dorothy’s book.



View all my reviews