Joleene Naylor

Biography

Joleene Naylor is the author of the glitter-less Amaranthine vampire universe, a world where vampires aren't for children. Comprised of a main series, a standalone prequel, and several short story collections, she has plans to continue expanding with a trilogy and several standalone novels.

In her spare time, Joleene is a freelance book cover designer and for-fun photographer. She maintains several blogs, full of odd ramblings, and occasionally updates her website at JoleeneNaylor.com. In what little time is left ,she watches anime, plays PokemonGo, and works on her crooked Victorian house in Villisca, Iowa. Between her husband, family, and pets, she is never lonely, in fact, quite the opposite. Should she disappear, one might look for her on a beach in Tahiti, sipping a tropical drink and wearing a disguise.

Ramblings from the Darkness at www.JoleeneNaylor.com
You never know what you’ll find in the shadows…..

Smashwords Interview

Who are you and why do we care?
I'm one of a million plus indie authors who writes vampire fiction. Except, my Amaranthine series isn't for teenagers.My vampires don't drive a Prius, they're not vegetarian, and they happily kill both humans and vampires alike - even the good guys. A reviewer once commented that they didn't find my good guy "good enough" and that made me happy, because no one is the proverbial white knight good guy that movies and novels sometimes portray, just as no one is ever evil for the sake of being evil. The best "good guy" has darkness lurking behind his eyes, and the best villain thinks he's righteous. If you agree, and like a dose of violence and romance with your vampires, then you might like what I have to offer. You can always start with the free stories first.
What do your fans mean to you?
My fans are the reason I keep writing. Without them I'd have probably gotten bored and moved on to something else by now, but their passion for the Amaranthine world keeps me passionate. That's why I try to keep my books as cheap as I can, and write lots of freebies, because, without them, the Amaranthine universe would not exist.
Read more of this interview.

Where to find Joleene Naylor online

Where to buy in print

Series

Amaranthine Freebies
I love freebies - and what's better than freebies with bite? This collection features short stories and supplemental material from the paranormal world of Amaranthine. Dive deeper into the universe and get to know some of the side characters, find out how Katelina's island vacation went, and much, much more.
Tales of the Executioners Collections
All the Tales of the Executioners stories across two volumes; including stories only available in the collection, as well as expanded versions of some of the freebie stories.
Tales of the Executioners; free shorts
Free short stories from the world of Amaranthine; a universe of blood and darkness where vampires don't sparkle and night is eternal. Each is about a member of the Executioners squad; the special vampire "police" force. Members both past and present share stories of assignments, origins, and more.
Amaranthine
Pulled into a world of darkness, Katelina's fate becomes intertwined with that of Jorick, a dark, enigmatic vampire. To stay by his side, she must navigate intrigue, terror and bloodshed as they are drawn from one battle to another. Dreams of peace seem elusive, and are complicated by mysterious vampires, old relics, and an ancient master. Join Katelina and Jorick in a world where vampires don't sparkle and night is eternal.
Shades of Gray
Price: Free!
Legacy of Ghosts
Price: $0.99 USD.
Ties of Blood
Price: $0.99 USD.
Ashes of Deceit
Price: $0.99 USD.
Heart of the Raven
Price: $1.99 USD.
Children of Shadows
Price: $2.99 USD.
Vampire Morsels
Seventeen short stories from the world of Amaranthine; a universe of blood and darkness where vampires don't sparkle and night is eternal. Features origin stories, bits of randomness, and more about side characters from the Amaranthine novel series.
Tales from the Island
This is a collection of six short stories that fit between the Amaranthine novels Heart of the Raven and Children of Shadows. They are meant as a supplement to the series may or may not make sense if you have not read the accompanying novels. They may also contain spoilers. After five novels of bloodshed and terror, Katelina finally gets her island vacation, but it's not all she expected. How can it be when her companions are vampires? Get ready for book six of the Amaranthine series, Children of Shadows, with these tasty bites. What happens on a vampire vacation, stays on a vampire vacation.

Books

Autumn Leaves
Price: Free! Words: 4,990. Language: English. Published: May 1, 2021 . Categories: Poetry » Female authors, Poetry » American poetry » General
A poetry collection in memory of Bonnie Mutchler, featuring poems of both fun and fantasy.
A Different Time
Series: Amaranthine Freebies · Amaranthine Short Stories. Price: Free! Words: 8,950. Language: English. Published: January 29, 2020 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Romance » Paranormal » General
It’s been two years since Lilith was defeated. Oren and Etsuko have settled down to raise the twins. Though Oren’s old fashioned sensibilities say it’s not official until they’re married, he’s painfully aware that the world – and women – have changed. Can he figure out how to pop the question in this “different time”, or will it be a disaster?
Tales of the Executioners, Volume Two
Series: Tales of the Executioners Collections · Amaranthine Short Stories. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 126,310. Language: English. Published: March 25, 2019 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Horror » Undead
Volume Two continues the stories of the Executioners, the vampires’ elite enforcers who uphold the Laws and administer punishment. Meet thirteen Executioners, hear their stories – from romance to heartbreak – and see through their eyes as Malick’s madness spirals out of control, leading to rebellion, betrayal, and death.
Tales of the Executioners, Volume One
Series: Tales of the Executioners Collections · Amaranthine Short Stories. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 132,080. Language: English. Published: October 29, 2018 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Anthologies » Horror
Executioner is the name given to the vampires’ elite enforcers; those who uphold the Laws and administer punishment. In Volume One, meet some of those enforcers, learn their origin stories, feel their heartbreaks, their joys, travel with them on assignments, and see how The Guild came to be – but always, always, be wary of their master, Malick.
Migina: Just a Human (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 8,250. Language: English. Published: August 13, 2018 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Horror » Undead
Short story. Number twenty-two of Tales of the Executioners, stories about the elite vampire "police force". To protect themselves from one another in the citadel, the Executioners took on human slaves - or guard dogs,. Fifty years later, with no attacks, the vampires have decided to get rid of them. To protect the immortal's secrets, the law says the humans must be destroyed.
Tellith: Fire of Imagination (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 8,330. Language: English. Published: July 6, 2018 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Horror » Undead
Short story. Number twenty-one of the Tales of the Executioners, stories about the vampires elite "police force". Tellith is on vacation when he gets a call the the citadel is under attack! Is it the Hand of Death and his army? Will anyone survive? Can Tellith get back in time to do anything? And if he does, will he end up dead, too? It's a race cross country that he might just lose.
Mary: Chasing a Killer (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 6,930. Language: English. Published: June 4, 2018 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead
Short story. Part of the Tales of the Executioners, stories about the vampire's elite "police force". Mary's spent ten months chasing a rogue vampire and finding clever ways to cover up his mass slayings - from fire to fake ax murder scenes. Finally, in a small town in Iowa, things are about to come to a head. She'll catch him this time - or else.
Honeymoon Havoc
Series: Amaranthine Freebies · Amaranthine Short Stories. Price: Free! Words: 8,240. Language: English. Published: May 22, 2018 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Horror » Undead
The Amaranthine series may have ended, but Jorick and Katelina's life together is just beginning. Jorick is looking forward to the departure of their Japanese guests, so he can be alone with his new wife, when trouble shows up in the form of a redheaded Executioner and a vampiress who needs help. Will they ever find peace and quiet?
Kioko: On Equal Terms (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 9,430. Language: English. Published: May 2, 2018 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
Short story. Contains Spoilers for Ashes of Deceit. Only an Executioner for two weeks, Kioko is assigned mid-job to drop everything and help Ark apprehend a vampire-human duo wanted for murder. But it's not just any duo: it's the legendary Hand of Death Jorick and his so-called human pet.
Krill: Dreadful Note of Preparation (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 8,450. Language: English. Published: April 1, 2018 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
Short story. It's 1893 when Krill finds a threatening note in his room. Could it be a joke, perpetrated by his friend Hugh? After all, he's only a guard at the citadel. He doesn't have many enemies. Who could mean him harm?
Jorick: The Price of Freedom (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 12,400. Language: English. Published: March 8, 2018 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Urban
short story. Jorick has served Malick for hundreds of years but, since marrying Velnya, he's wearied of his duty. With a final assignment to carry out, Jorick will finally be freed to live a life of quiet and peace - a life free from fighting and death. But what he finds when he gets home will shatter all of his dreams for the future and leave him hurtling down the road to revenge.
Griselda: Pack of Wolves (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 11,220. Language: English. Published: February 1, 2018 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
Short story. In the citadel, it's hard to tell who's your enemy and who's your friend - or it is for the Executioners. No wonder they need human guard dogs to protect them while they sleep. When Griselda's human is compromised, will one of her fellows take advantage of the situation, or will they hesitate long enough for her to find a solution? Who knew vampires had so many problems?
Jamie: The Blood of Betrayal (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 11,430. Language: English. Published: January 27, 2018 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
Wounded in battle, Jamie crawls home, desperate to see his wife and family again. When he wakes miraculously healed, he's bombarded with one horrible revelation after another. His wife is dead, and his father hung as a traitor. But how is it that his sister and brother-in-law were spared? And what does the mysterious Eagan - who now claims to be their master - have to do with it?
Zuri: Trapped (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 8,270. Language: English. Published: January 8, 2018 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
Contains Ashes of Deceits spoilers. Taken prisoner by Oren's war coven, Zuri is held captive for twelve days. When he returns to the citadel, Eileifr refuses to reinstate him as an Executioner, forcing him to take "time to recuperate". Rather than the healing vacation its meant to be, Zuri feels just as trapped as he was by the war coven - maybe even more so.
Fallon: Taste in Men (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 10,840. Language: English. Published: November 13, 2017 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Fantasy » Short stories
Short Story. Though she's over 100, Fallon feels responsible for his sister. From one disaster to another, her relationships give new meaning to bad taste, and her newest is no better. Fallon knows Warren is up to something, but convincing Laura of it is another matter. Can be read as a stand alone.
Greneth: Halloween Hijinks (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 8,650. Language: English. Published: October 18, 2017 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
Short Story. The cartoon vampire on a “haunted house” advertisement catches Greneth’s eyes. Then, a couples-only discount sweetens the deal, if he can find someone to take. Griselda seems the perfect choice, but when she starts asking silly questions – like just what is a haunted house, anyway? – and talking about so-called real ghosts, he wonders if he’s made the right choice.
Franklin: The Promise (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 10,840. Language: English. Published: October 9, 2017 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
Short Story. After a hundred years of silence, The Hand of Death is on the radar again – and Franklin is assigned to deal with the situation. Part of a team, they discover it’s not just Jorick who's involved, but also the Tormentor, Kateesha. In a battle against legends, what can go wrong? Read the attack on Oren’s den through the Executioner’s point of view.
Dismas: Prayers of the Damned (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 6,570. Language: English. Published: September 4, 2017 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
Short Story. Not for children. In 1893, Dismas is still a greater guard - or was before he joined Kateesha's revolt. Regretful, he wants to go back to The Guild, but can he get there - and obtain forgiveness - before Kateesha or the Executioners kill him?
Daniel: Black Luck (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 5,910. Language: English. Published: August 12, 2017 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
Short Story. Not for children. Part of the Tales of the Executioners collection, about the vampires in the elite "police force". Daniel and Kateesha are tasked with apprehending a murderous vampire, but all work and no play makes Kateesha bored. When she lures Daniel into neglecting their duty, he can guess his future: failure isn’t something The Guild takes lightly.
Cyprus: Future's Promise (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 20,220. Language: English. Published: June 30, 2017 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Fantasy » Urban
Short Story. Not for children. Before Cyprus joined the ranks of the Executioners, he was a guard at the Stronghold in Munich, Germany, where he fell in love with Sadihra, who is the German equivalent of an Executioner. not only does she outrank him, but she's already taken. However, Cyprus has something on his side that no one realizes.
Goddess of Night
Series: Amaranthine, Book 9. Price: $3.99 USD. Words: 132,730. Language: English. Published: April 30, 2017 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Horror » Undead
A war four-thousand years in the making. In the mists of time, Lilith sealed her immortal lover away. Awakened, Samael has only one plan: revenge. Linked to Samael and caught in the middle, Katelina watched as Lilith took both her best friend Sarah and a child vampire hostage. Now, it’s up to her and Jorick to get them back.
The Very True Legends of Ol' Man Wickleberry and his Demise - Ink Slingers' Anthlogy
Series: Ink Slingers Anthologies. Price: Free! Words: 33,740. Language: English. Published: January 29, 2017 . Categories: Fiction » Humor & comedy » General, Fiction » Anthologies » Short stories - multi-author
(5.00 from 1 review)
Ol’ Man Wickleberry is a man of legend – or is he a legend of a man? With a scruffy beard and a dislike for humanity, how long has it been since he met his demise, and what is he doing in his ghostly afterlife? The stories may differ, but all of them are true. We swear. Enjoy eight tales by seven talented authors.
Lisiantha: Home for Christmas (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 12,260. Language: English. Published: December 18, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Paranormal » General, Fiction » Romance » Contemporary
Lisiantha runs away from her rural coven, but after a nasty breakup, she comes back, her fledgling in tow. Dreading a run in with her ex, Josh, she soon has more important things to worry about. Her master made a mistake and now a warring coven wants her blood. Can she find a way to save her – and maybe save herself in the process? Even vampires enjoy a Hallmark-style Christmas special.
Road to Darkness
Series: Amaranthine Freebies · Amaranthine Short Stories. Price: Free! Words: 8,380. Language: English. Published: November 22, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Weird fiction
When Jenny and her best friend stop to help a pair of college boys stranded on the side of the road, they get more than they bargained for.
Patrick's Story: Brothers of Darkness
Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 129,780. Language: English. Published: October 11, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
“Not a love story…a dark spiral into blackness.” “If you’ve read Shades of Gray, you know how this has to end.” The prequel to Shades of Gray tells the story of Patrick and Michael, how they got tangled into Claudius’ web, and their valiant fight to escape.
Bren: In the Dark (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 6,770. Language: English. Published: May 14, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
(4.00 from 1 review)
Short Story. Not for children. Part of a collection called Tales of the Executioners about the vampires in the elite "police force". Bren has a simple assignment - to deal with a coven who's killed too many locals. When he takes a victim's phone as a trophy, he becomes fascinated with the story of her death - almost too fascinated.
Thirteen Guests
Series: Amaranthine Freebies · Amaranthine Short Stories. Price: Free! Words: 39,970. Language: English. Published: April 3, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Horror » Undead
(5.00 from 1 review)
A collection of thirteen short stories meant to take place during the events of Masque of the Vampire. Every fifty years, Andrei throws an expensive house party for the crème de la crème of the vampire world. But, there’s only so much time in the novel, and only so much Katelina can see. Discover the things she didn’t and enjoy thirteen stories, told through the eyes of the guests themselves.
Masque of the Vampire
Series: Amaranthine, Book 8. Price: $3.99 USD. Words: 121,400. Language: English. Published: April 1, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Horror » Undead
Katelina and Jorick head home at last, but it isn't the homecoming they expected. Between Katelina's family and the return of an old friend thought dead, it's almost a relief when Eileifr sends Jorick to Canada as extra security for Andrei's extravagant gala. Almost. But between a mysterious stalker and a child murderer, things are about to get scary.
Sarah (Vampire Morsels)
Series: Vampire Morsels, Book 13. Price: Free! Words: 4,690. Language: English. Published: March 6, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
Short Story. Not for children. Though Sarah has problems of her own, she's worried about Katelina. Her best friend's sort-of-boyfriend was murdered a month ago, and now a joker has started prank calling her. It's no wonder she's hiding out. But, when Sarah goes to visit, she finds a ransacked apartment and a pair of strange men. When she confronts them, she has no idea how much trouble she's in.
Byrn: At Christmas (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 6,200. Language: English. Published: February 8, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Horror » Undead
(3.00 from 1 review)
Short Story. Not for children. Part of a collection called Tales of the Executioners about the vampires in the elite "police force". It's 1755. With The Guild in it's infancy, there are only so many Executioners, so when a report of mass killings rolls in at Christmas time, Byrn is sent to sort it out. He'd better do something special to appease his wife.
Beldren: What We Deserve (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 10,360. Language: English. Published: February 8, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
Short Story. Not for children. When Beldren and his friends, former indentured servants, set out to “take what they deserve” they get just that and more.
When the Lights Go Out - Ink Slingers' Halloween Anthology
Series: Ink Slingers Anthologies. Price: Free! Words: 110,020. Language: English. Published: September 23, 2015 . Categories: Fiction » Anthologies » Horror
(4.00 from 2 reviews)
A collection of twenty-five short stories just in time for Halloween. Enjoy thrills, chills, and mysteries. Meet ghosts, demons, vampires, and monsters everywhere from dark city streets to the English countryside. Scares lurk in the most unexpected places and, when the lights go out, no where is safe and no one will be spared.
Verchiel: Never Ending Question (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 8,820. Language: English. Published: September 19, 2015 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Short stories
(4.00 from 1 review)
Short Story. Not for children. Verchiel wakes up in an unfamiliar room with a busty woman standing over him. He can't recall who she is - or even who he is - let alone how he's become an immortal blood drinker. As he struggles to learn this new way of life, he must decide what kind of man he wants to be.
Kateesha (Vampire Morsels)
Series: Vampire Morsels, Book 12. Price: Free! Words: 5,150. Language: English. Published: April 7, 2015 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Horror » Undead
Short Story. Not for children. The twelfth in a collection called Vampire Morsels about different vampires from the Amaranthine universe. The year is 1968. Kateesha and her partner are sent to deal with a group of rogues in southern Missouri. When things get nasty, Kateesha gets nastier. Can her father forgive her, or will he enforce the council's death sentence?
Clash of Legends
Series: Amaranthine, Book 7. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 123,850. Language: English. Published: March 31, 2015 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Romance » Paranormal » General
(5.00 from 2 reviews)
The seventh installment in the Amaranthine series. Katelina wakes in Samael’s domain without Jorick. Her vampire lover gathers an army to save her, but Malick interferes. When he leaves Katelina broken and bleeding, it’s the final straw. Jorick plans the ultimate taboo: to kill his master. Will he succeed or will he and Katelina be crushed in a greater war?
Strange Portals - Ink Slingers' Fantasy/Horror Anthology
Series: Ink Slingers Anthologies. Price: Free! Words: 92,930. Language: English. Published: December 7, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Anthologies » Short stories - multi-author, Fiction » Anthologies » Horror
(4.00 from 3 reviews)
Just in time for a much needed holiday break, twenty-two stories about fairies, vampires, zombies, werewolves, and everything in between. Stories by AK Stein, Adan Ramie, B.G. Hope, Barbara G. Tarn, Bonnie Mutchler, CG Coppola, DM Yates, JK Rosaline, Joleene Naylor, Kay Kauffman, Maegan Provan, Mark R. Hunter, Rami Ungar, Roger Lawrence, Roxanna Mathews, Terry Compton and Tricia Drammeh.
Ark: Echo from the Past (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts, Book 2 · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 4,920. Language: English. Published: May 25, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Romance » Paranormal » General
Short Story. Not for children. Part of a collection called Tales of the Executioners about the vampires in the elite "police force". Ark has been an Executioner for two hundred and fifty years, and has always done his duty, but when he's handed an assignment with a familiar perpetrator, will he be able to follow orders?
Children of Shadows
Series: Amaranthine, Book 6. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 112,340. Language: English. Published: March 15, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Romance » Paranormal » General
(5.00 from 3 reviews)
An extinct cult resurfaces to wage war on the vampire guilds, leaving destruction in their path. Katelina and Jorick are trapped in Munich’s stronghold, with Ume, a vampiress who claims to know Verchiel and offers the help of her secret organization. But, can they trust Ume and her friends? Why have the Children of Shadows reappeared? Is it really a former ally that leads them, or a look alike?
Tales from the Island Collection
Series: Tales from the Island, Book 7 · Amaranthine Freebies · Amaranthine Short Stories. Price: Free! Words: 22,910. Language: English. Published: March 10, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Romance » Paranormal » General
Six short stories. After five novels of bloodshed and terror, Katelina finally gets her island vacation, but it’s not all she expected. How can it be when her companions are vampires? Get ready for book 6 of the Amaranthine series, Children of Shadows, with these tasty bites. What happens on a vampire vacation, stays on a vampire vacation.
Verchiel (Tales from the Island)
Series: Tales from the Island, Book 6. Price: Free! Words: 3,860. Language: English. Published: March 8, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Romance » Paranormal » General
(5.00 from 2 reviews)
Katelina finally gets her beach vacation, but it's not all it's cracked up to be. How can it when her companions are vampires? Get ready for book 6 in the Amaranthine series, Children of Shadows, with this collection. Day 6: It's just a lazy day for Verchiel in the hot tub. Though his efforts at making friends go awry, he refuses to be deterred, much to the chagrin of his fellow vacationers.
Loren (Tales from the Island)
Series: Tales from the Island, Book 5. Price: Free! Words: 3,550. Language: English. Published: March 1, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Romance » Paranormal » General
(5.00 from 1 review)
Katelina finally gets her beach vacation, but it's not all it's cracked up to be. How can it when her companions are vampires? Get ready for book 6 in the Amaranthine series, Children of Shadows, with this collection. Day 5: Loren seems to be the only one who understands what beach vacation means, or so he thinks until he and Micah stumble on Torina and a surprise friend.
Sadihra (Tales from the Island)
Series: Tales from the Island, Book 4. Price: Free! Words: 3,520. Language: English. Published: February 21, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Paranormal » General, Fiction » Horror » Undead
(5.00 from 1 review)
Katelina finally gets her beach vacation, but it's not all it's cracked up to be. How can it when her companions are vampires? Get ready for book 6 in the Amaranthine series, Children of Shadows, with this collection. Day 4: Sadihra wants to return to the elite Scharfrichter force, but Wolfe has one condition. Can she accept it, or will their renewed relationship fall apart?
Oren (Tales from the Island)
Series: Tales from the Island, Book 3. Price: Free! Words: 3,690. Language: English. Published: February 14, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Romance » Paranormal » General
(5.00 from 1 review)
Katelina finally gets her beach vacation, but it's not all it's cracked up to be. How can it when her companions are vampires? Get ready for book 6 in the Amaranthine series, Children of Shadows, with this collection. Day 3:Haunted by ghosts of the past, Oren's vacation is more torture than pleasure. But perhaps it's time he let some of his old agonies go and tried to shape the life he has left.
Torina (Tales from the Island)
Series: Tales from the Island, Book 2. Price: Free! Words: 4,350. Language: English. Published: February 10, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead
(5.00 from 1 review)
Katelina finally gets her beach vacation, but it's not all it's cracked up to be. How can it when her companions are vampires? Get ready for book 6 in the Amaranthine series, Children of Shadows, with this collection. Day 2: Torina is ready for a vacation in the sand. But can she find peace on the tropical island, or give into the ghosts of her past under the swaying palms?
Micah (Tales from the Island)
Series: Tales from the Island, Book 1. Price: Free! Words: 3,730. Language: English. Published: February 10, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead
(5.00 from 1 review)
Katelina finally gets her beach vacation, but it's not all it's cracked up to be. How can it when her companions are vampires? Get ready for book 6 in the Amaranthine series, Children of Shadows, with this collection. Day 1: Micah is ready for some fun in the sand, but he's not so excited about the ocean. The dark waters stir memories from his past that he'd rather forget.
Aine: Another Complication (Tales of the Executioners)
Series: Tales of the Executioners; free shorts, Book 1 · Amaranthine Freebies. Price: Free! Words: 5,930. Language: English. Published: November 21, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead, Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
(3.75 from 4 reviews)
Short Story. Not for children. More humor than horror, Aine is a bit of fun. As one of the newest, Aine gets the job nobody wants: arresting a vampire for breaking The Laws. While everything goes wrong around him, he discovers that his target has broken yet another law...one that could get him into trouble, too.
Heart of the Raven: Mini Prologue Collection
Series: Amaranthine Freebies · Amaranthine Short Stories. Price: Free! Words: 10,360. Language: English. Published: April 2, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
(5.00 from 1 review)
This is a collection of nine flash fiction “prologues” for the book Heart of the Raven, the fifth novel in the Amaranthine vampire series. These stories are not intended to stand on their own, but as a supplement to the novel. Meet Cyrpus, Neil, Sadihra, Wolfe and others as they go about their business not knowing that their actions may have consequences that will echo for a lifetime.
Heart of the Raven
Series: Amaranthine, Book 5. Price: $1.99 USD. Words: 113,460. Language: English. Published: March 11, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Romance » Paranormal » General
(5.00 from 2 reviews)
Not suitable for tweens. The fifth installment of the Amaranthine series sees Jorick and Katelina draw closer as they surround themselves with their own miniature army to outwit the machinations of the ancient master. Katelina grows stronger and learns to stand on her own because there’s no room for the fainthearted in a world where darkness is eternal and the night tastes like blood
Kariss (Vampire Morsels)
Series: Vampire Morsels, Book 11. Price: Free! Words: 3,440. Language: English. Published: January 24, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal
Short Story. Not a children's story. The eleventh in a collection about different vampires from the Amaranthine universe. Told in flashbacks between 1784 and 1820, Kariss must come to terms with her own immortality and her mother's death. You can also find Kariss in the novel Legacy of Ghosts.
Vampire Morsels: Short Story Collection
Series: Vampire Morsels, Book 14 · Amaranthine Freebies · Amaranthine Short Stories. Price: Free! Words: 75,870. Language: English. Published: July 28, 2012 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Horror » Undead
(4.67 from 3 reviews)
Seventeen short stories, each about a different character from the Amaranthine universe. Includes: Velnya, Troy, Sarah, Nirel, Michael, Kateesha, Kariss, Jesslynn, Herrick, Elsa, Claudius, Bethina, Benjamin, Ashton, Arowenia, Alexander and Adam.
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Smashwords book reviews by Joleene Naylor

  • The Cowboy's Wish on March 24, 2010

    This is an incredibly cute story - it made me laugh more than once - and I, too hope that Ruth continues it.
  • Eye of the Beholder on March 31, 2010

    Mary Peters live in Maine in the late 1800's. A nineteen year old girl with a "too big" nose, "too thin" lips and freckles, she's left behind without so much as a suitor while all of her sisters have left the house to be married. With an eye to the papers, she stumbles across an ad from Neil Craftsman, a Nebraska farmer seeking a bride. He asks for a woman who is hardworking, dependable and capable of bearing children, yet he never mentions the word pretty. It fits Mary to a t. Despite her parents' objections, she boards the train and spends a week traveling to the prairies of Nebraska. Only, when she gets there, she discovers that Neil did want something pretty after all, and Mary is just too plain! A lesser woman would have run crying, but Mary is a strong woman who refuses to go cringing back home. It's this exact resilience that impresses Dave Larson and leads him to ask her to marry him instead. Though reluctant to accept, he manages to convince her and, by the end of the day, Mary Peters is a married woman. But, her mother never taught her about marriage, and certainly no one instructed her in the ways of farming back in her hometown in Maine. The next several months are a learning experience for her, in more ways than one, the question is can she learn to trust Dave's feelings and see herself through his eyes? When I started this book I only intended to read a couple of chapters; I ended up reading the whole book in one setting. Mary is a character that I could quickly identify with, from her desire to please, to the rejection she has so often gotten from men, who see only what's on the outside, not what's inside. But this isn't just Mary's story, it is also Dave's who, after tragedy strikes, has to learn how to cope. Interwoven between the lines is the story of Neil Craftsman who finally gets what he wants; a beautiful east coast bride, but is she really as fantastic as everyone thinks? More than just a historical romance, this is a story about looking under the surface, least we forget that there's more to people than what they look like and that, while a pretty face may appeal at first, there has to be something underneath it. But most importantly, it's a reminder the beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder.
  • Inside the Worm on May 07, 2010

    A wonderful set of poems! "Lindy's Lover" and "A Part of War" are my favorites :)
  • The Egg of Orlin on May 09, 2010

    A great collection! Has many of my favorite poems by Ms. Mutchler :) "Ride Away, Johnny Boy" and "Jamie of the Glenn" feel almost more like songs than poems.
  • From the Pit on May 24, 2010

    More great poetry from Ms. Mutchler. These are easy to read and the whole book goes down smooth. Very enjoyable.
  • Tales From the Mist on July 26, 2010

    Another great poetry collection from Ms. Mutchler. An English murder is both mysterious and fun, and Katie Morrell is another great story poem. However, this collection includes what i consider to be her most memorable poem, Lyda. I highly recommend this!
  • My Lord Hades on Sep. 27, 2010

    Hades and Persephone have always been my favorite of the Greek myths, so I wasn't sure whether I would love this book or hate it. I loved it. When the book opens, we find Hades as a prisoner in Tartarus, tortured by specters of his past. Zeus and Poseidon appear and offer both Kingdom and bride to Hades if he will help them finish the ongoing war with the Titans. It's a simple choice between agony and revenge. Meanwhile, Persephone is living with her mother Demeter. She's lost all of her powers, but even worse, she's lost her memories as well. Unhappily sheltered, Persephone knows there is something more; something she is missing. And, when she meets the dark, mysterious Hades one day, she discovers what it is. Stephannie Beman takes the story of Persephone and Hades and adds enough twists to make it new and bring out the underlying passion I always felt was hiding beneath the myth. Her representation of Hades as the smoldering bad boy with a dark, regretful past and a desperate need for the salvation only love can bring is dead on. Meanwhile, Persephone slowly changes before the reader's eyes from a very timid creature to a woman who is more than capable of holding her own. There were several surprising plot twists (The underworld's first ruler, for instance!) and even some humor in the form of the Nymphs. In short, all I have to say is that if Hades came thundering towards me on a chariot, I most certainly wouldn't argue ;)
  • Of Yellow Snow and Christmas Balls on Dec. 20, 2010

    With a dry wit and a flair for the sarcastically descriptive, LC Cooper tells the story of a family trapped in the nightmare of the Christmas Family Portrait, further complicated by the joys of extended family, that leaves them with a photo to remember. Anyone who's ever been talked into signing away their souls by smoozing salesmen - whether a family portrait package, or even a vacuum cleaner - will find themselves in good company in this hilarious short story.
  • Halloween's Perfect Storm on Dec. 29, 2010

    Another good short from LC Cooper! An easy read with a good flow and great descriptions ("The property manager was a kindly, yet dusty old man" is just one example) Cooper has a definite talent for dry humor and **spoiler** the twist at the end will leave you either laughing out loud or smacking yourself in the forehead.
  • With This Ring, I Thee Dread on Jan. 17, 2011

    With This Ring, I Thee Dread is a fun contemporary romance. Ryan Jackson is a successful advertising executive at his father’s company. His life is great, if you discount he airheaded bimbos his friends Zac and Benset him up with for dates. That is, until his parents arrange a marriage for him – with his arch nemesis Elizabeth Valentine. Elizabeth spent her school years teased and tormented by Zac, Ben & Ryan. Now a grown woman, her past has led her to be harsh and guarded, especially when it comes to men. So, when her parents announce that she’ll be marrying – and “enjoying” an isolated four month honeymoon with Ryan, her temper flares. Forced to marry or lose their jobs and inheritance, Elizabeth and Ryan are stuck together in a cabin in the Alaskan Wilderness. What promises to be a miserable time, slowly softens into something more enjoyable as the weeks pass. The pair learn that their shared past isn’t what they thought it was, and learn to see one another in a different light. At a glance, Elizabeth sometimes seems to be a harsh woman, but if you put yourself in her shoes and imagine that you’ve been forced to marry one of your tormentors from high school, would any woman be different? If anything, she is more forgiving than I would be. Like Ruth Anne Nordin’s other books, this was a fast, smooth and enjoyable read. Ms. Nordin does an excellent job of executing humor in just the right places. Some of the funniest moments are the “man bashing” talk show that Ryan watches. She also adds suspense when a pair of bank robbers, on the run form the law, stumble into Elizabeth and Ryan’s neck of the woods. If you’re looking for a fun, entertaining and romantic read, then this is the book for you!
  • Dan's Accidental Convertible on Jan. 18, 2011

    Dan and LC return from "Yellow Snow...", the holiday short story by LC Cooper. In this continuation we see signs of Dan's growing temper problem, and the quick, decisive way that LC deals with it when she's had enough. The dialog is realistic but fun, and I especially loved the ending of this! Very clever!
  • The Gift of Joy on Feb. 21, 2011

    Joy lived a life of repression and fear until one Christmas when her father snaps and murders her mother. Now a grown woman, Joy blames herself because that Christmas when she told her Santa her wish she didn't wish for her mother's happiness, but her own. Only, the wish never came true. What Joy wanted more than anything was the protection of Gabe, the boy across the street. but as the years have passed they've exchanged no more than a handful of words. However, that's all about to change. Back for the holidays, Gabe summons up the courage to approach Joy, who still lives across the street from his parents. Though she;s now a grown woman, he still sees her as the innocent girl who needs taken care of - and though he's long denied it, he wants to be the one to take care of her! But, can they both let go of their pasts or will they let their own guilt destroy their relationship before it even starts? This was a good book that reads very fast. I intended to sit down and read for only half and hour and two hours later I was suddenly looking at the clock in surprise. The story weaves between tragedy and magic, and back again, but the ending will leave you with a smile.
  • Shades of Plaid (A Very Unconventional Weekly Journey into Christian Living) on April 05, 2011

    I've been waiting for this book to come out for awhile, so I was happy to finally get it! Shades of Plaid is a weekly devotional but, as the title implies, this is not your average devotional. Instead of the usually serious, inspiring, tear inducing stories, Shades of Plaid has fifty-two humorous short stories, followed up by serious, inspiring lessons that can be applied to most any Christian faith, whether you're Episcopalian, Baptist, or a denomination in between. In Shades of Plaid, Jonathan Harvey has shown that being a Christian not only can be fun, but is fun! And even if you're not interested in the devotional aspect, the short stories are funny by themselves. In fact, you don't even have to take a whole year to read it. I devoured it in two days.
  • One Wish on May 03, 2011

    It took me a couple seconds to get the ending, but when I did - HA! Nice twist! :)
  • Legacy on May 12, 2011

    It is World War II. A group of American pilots do a routine bombing on a train loading with German weapons, never knowing what it is they're really bombing, or the Reich's true plans. Fast forward to the 1990's. Collin Roggero works as a restoration mechanic, though his current task doesn't interest him at all. As luck would have it, while looking through the warehouse he stumbles upon something that does; a group of world war II era crates. Inside he finds the parts to a German plane and something else. A mysterious cylinder and a bunch of random parts that he knows don;t belong to the airplane. And that's when the dreams begin. Led to his fate by a mysterious "feeling" - call it destiny - Collin has to abandon his current life, and even his identity to unravel an age old mystery and stop a plot that's been over fifty years in the making. Legacy was a book that was full of twists and turns. LC Cooper does a good job of giving the reader the right information at the right time and maintains a good sense of suspense as well as a conveying a sense of urgency. You want Collin to succeed. You want him to be careful. You want him to watch out behind him... I don't want to spoil anything, but this book has one of the creepiest "monsters" (though I hesitate to use that word, as it doesn't quite fit) that I've run into in a long time! It will definitely stick with me for a long time to come!
  • Dead Silence on June 28, 2011

    This was an entertaining novella with several twists (one of which completely surprised me!). i enjoyed the angel/demon tie-ins and found the main character's empath abilities interesting. I can't imagine trying to go to high school and have such a gift. The fight scenes were not bad, the gore descriptions were well done and i thought that pool scene (no spoilers) was also handled well. There's enough details so that the author did not "shy away" from the subject matter, but not too many to make it gratuitous. In all this was an enjoyable read that made me think of my high school days, and I'm looking forward to the next one!
  • Romeo and Juliet For the Rest of Us! on Sep. 22, 2011

    A fun, fast read! Not only humorous, but a great companion for anyone who's ever watched/read Romeo and Juliet and felt like they were missing something (exactly who is that fighting in scene 1 and why?) Looking forward to the next one!
  • Penelope and The Birthday Curse on Feb. 14, 2012

    This was a fun read. Penelope is a strong character with a fun personality and at times reminded me of Louise Fitzhugh's Harriet stories. Lots of funny moments and enough chills to keep the reader hooked. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
  • The Russian Idea on July 08, 2012

    I'v heard that another reviewer called this an odd book and I'm not sure why. The only thing I can figure is that they found the philosophy angle to be strange (and there is a good deal of philosophy discussion between the characters) However since I knew it would be there already, I did not find it odd in the slightest. Daniel is an Englishmen who is invited by a Russian oligarch to come work on a project that will "save Russia" by installing cultural centers around the globe that will "sell" the Russian Idea as they call it, aka a way of looking at life/spirituality/religion etc. - that is based on the philosophy and work of Nikolai Berdyaev. (the reader does not need to be familiar with this to understand the story, as Steve Evans does an excellent job of explaining it - for example I was not familiar with it.) But on Daniel's first day in Russia - in fact on the first page of the novel - there is a murder. The police must be called, but they only do more to complicate and already complicated situation that is full of twists turns, and more secrets than you can shake a stick at. And f course, the killing doesn't stop. It seems someone is out to sabotage the Russian Idea. But who? I don't want to give anything away, so I will just say that this is a novel with a good mystery and very interesting characters, some of which I wish there'd been more time to examine further (but that's the point of reading a book, isn't it? then YOU get to examine them further yourself in your own mind!), a good romance and a lot of surprises.
  • Penelope and The Ghost's Treasure on Aug. 24, 2012

    This book picks up where the last Penelope book left off. She's on her way to start boarding school - and more than a little miserable about the prospect. And no wonder, on the first day of school she earns the nickname "teacher Killer". things can only get worse from there. With a new batch of zanny, off beat characters, and a visit from a few old ones, this was easily as good as the first book, if not better. Again, I would recommend this for 10 +. Also of note, it's not necessary to have read the first book in order to enjoy this one, though it does make it better. As to the mystery? I did solve a portion of the mystery (no telling which bit) but not all of it. Well done, again, Mr. Voigts. (though this said reviewed right after purchase it is because I read a version given to me by the author, so I had to buy it now in order to review it.)
  • Starblade on Nov. 17, 2012

    A sci-fi reminiscent of the golden era when men were men and women wore mini skirts so you wouldn't notice the gun they held behind their back. Written in a style that flows from the technological to the bedroom, Starblade tells the story of Frederika, a Morningstar (an artificially constructed human) whose brains, sultry beauty and lethal skills make her the perfect choice to infiltrate the island of the Falcanians - a self made species of genetically enhanced humans whose power, strength and resources could tip the scales in a post apocalyptic war for control of the world. And getting inside is easy. Shar-Khan, the Falcaninan leader, is taken with her. But can she keep her mission a secret? What will happen if she is discovered? And what is the dark presence that seems to be swirling, almost undetected, among them? Starblade, the first of a trilogy, sets the stage for the next books to come, and I for one am looking forward to them!
  • Penelope and The Christmas Spirit on Dec. 14, 2012

    This short story is actually a bit of a prequel to the first Penelope book (Penelope and the Birthday Curse), and a fun one at that. Penelope's eccentric family decides to celebrate Christmas with their own unique twists. No store bough Christmas tree or decorations for them! But, even as Penelope is enjoying her first attempt at the holiday, a mysterious neighbor moves in nearby - or at least some of their furniture does. With nothing but a chair, a lamp and a Christmas tree, can there really be anyone living there? And if so, then who? A fun short story and perfect for this time of year!
  • The 4 Types of Artists – Starving, Dying, Dead, and Rich! on April 01, 2013

    A fun little piece that is too, too true!
  • Escape from Harrizel on Feb. 12, 2014

    First I have to say this was an awesome book! We all bandy about books we can't put down, but this was really one of those in those in the most literal sense, in fact I made my family mad (they got over it) and sloughed off work to finish it because I had to KNOW what happened next. Fallon wakes up in a small house, disorientated, and in the company of a man she doesn't know. It's not only her companion that's unfamiliar; she doesn't recognize anything, including herself. With the promise that her memories will return soon, she is whisked away to Harrizel, a planet run by an alien species who are "rescuing" the humans from a war ravaged earth. But Fallon doesn't even remember the war. Despite her desire to escape to the lush jungle surrounding the compound she's forced to call home, Fallon soon falls in with a group of fellow refugees, including the child Pratt, her new bestie Abel, and the tasty Reid, and discovers a dark, sinister secret under the facade of friendly help that the aliens are offering. Can Fallon and her new found friends stop the disappearances, or will they be the next victims? As I said, I loved this book! Like a good anime, the beginning leaves you scratching your head, and then slowly the puzzle pieces fall into place and leave you shouting "Aha!" The romance is well done - I had several "squee" moments - and I didn't see several of the plot twists coming, which is a nice change. I'm looking forward to the second book!
  • Synthetic, Electric Romance on Feb. 25, 2014

    Jack the Ripper meets robots. Or more accurately synthetic life. Sarina is a Morningstar, a kind of synthetic life form, who's in love with what is essentially a mobile tank unit. But Cylus is more than an old weapon. When he was struck by lightning he developed a consciousness and has been ruled a valid life form by those in power on Gear. He and Sarina lead a peaceful life until fembots start disappearing. Whether by fate or accident (Morningstars don't believe in accidents), Sarina observes some suspicious characters in a dark part of the city. Could they be responsible. This was a fun, twisty turny novella that kept me guessing. Though it is part of the Neo Human universe, I think you could read this without having read the other books, as there is a list of characters and important "concepts" in the back. But, for fans of the series, there is a surprise cameo by a quickly recognizable character.
  • Star-Fire: Poetic Collection on March 04, 2014

    Great collection full of raw emotion.
  • Plague of Mybyncia on March 19, 2014

    Fallon, Reid, and the gang are back - yay! This book picks up where escape from Harrizel left off. Fallon, Reid, Clarence, Sampson, and the others are on their way to the ocean planet of Mybencia, originally to see the last political leader who is on their side in the war - except the planet has been attacked and he has been evacuated. So now it's up to them to help make repairs. But it's never that easy. Mybencia is an ocean planet, whose inhabitants live underwater, and not all of them are friendly to the strangers. A rebel faction will stop at nothing to get the strangers off their planet - alive or dead, and preferably the second. When they kidnap one of them, whose side with the Queen take? I loved the first book, but I have to say this one was even better - the prose were tighter and the action was non stop. Reid and Fallon's budding romance has tension in all the right places, and enough squee moments to leave me giggling. The book is well paced, and just when I found myself thinking "What about x" boom! There it was. I can't wait for the third one!
  • Always on March 25, 2014

    Always tells the story of two souls who have been intertwined for many lifetimes and are now incarnated as Simon, a lone wolf who refuses to get close to anyone and April, the teenage niece of Simon's best friend. When April sets her sights on Simon, he rejects her for many reasons: her age, her immaturity and the vehemence with which his best friend, April's uncle, forbids their relationship. But, if love can transcend time and dimensions, it can also overcome such obstacles. The story of their current incarnation is woven together with their previous one, as well as the time they spend in between "lives" in the great beyond. By seeing the full picture, you get to understand not only Simon, but the other characters as well, and see how their various relationships play out. Not to mention the sweet love story between Simon and April - who doesn't stay a child for long! I've heard that the author is planning more books to follow this and I am looking forward to them!
  • The Lone Hero on March 25, 2014

    In her first novel, Always, DM Yates gave us a contemporary romance with a touch of spiritualism, and in Lone Hero she gives us a fantasy novel with a touch of spiritualism. though some readers may feel she has switched genres, I wouldn't say that; the spiritualism is the connection. It's not the only connection. All of our favorite characters from Always make an appearance via different incarnations. Simon aka Einarr is again the main character. This is the story of his first incarnation, which takes place on a different planet; a world of dragons and violence. After a mishap caused by two human boys the dragons of the world, who had hitherto had an uneasy peace with men, take revenge and wage a bloody war. This is the world Einarr is born into, and one he is destined to save, whether he wants to or not. Einarr's father is the last of the dragon riders; brave warriors who, in the new war torn world have been forced to give up their titles. But his father has secretly maintained contact with his ancient friend, and by infusing his son unborn son with the dragon's magic, he becomes the father to the Lone Hero, a figure prophesied to save the world. But when dragons destroy their village, Einarr and his family are forced to live on the run, hiding out in caves ad forests. This strange, isolated life leaves Einarr with heavy scars that he must learn to heal in order to fulfill his destiny. DM ytaes has come up with a genius series idea; by using reincarnation it allows us to follow our favorite characters again and again, but instead of being stuck in the same lifetime/story line there is so enough flexibility to keep even the most finicky reader entertained. I've been looking forward to this sequel since I finished Always and enjoyed it just as much, if not more, than I thought I would.
  • Discovery at Nerwolix on Feb. 17, 2015

    Fallon lived a normal life on Earth until Clarence took her to Harrizel. There she met the troubled but smexy Reid and his band of Rogues and ended up part of an interplanetary war. Her life will never be the same again. Discovery at Nerwolix is the third in the Arizel War series. It begins where the last ended. Fallon, Reid, and their allies transport to an ice planet to meet with the leaders of the Arizels, the "good" side in the interplanetary civil war. They need time to organize, but it's something they don't get. attacked, they escape to the jungle world of Nerwolix. Can they convince the inhabitants that war is coming before it's too late? This is another great entry in a great series. Coppola had an amazing knack for pacing and ends every chapter leaving the reader wanting "just one more". The mythology is interesting, the world building is well done, the alien races varied and the characters fleshed out. I have to admit to a book crush on Reid! The title for this one is perfect. Secrets are revealed and mysteries solved, some of which have their roots in book one. If you like soft sci-fi or even fantasy (with the lack of hyper drives and abundance of mystical being this could easily appeal to fantasy lovers), lots of action, and twists and turns, then give this series a try, though I recommend starting at book one.
  • Diary of a Reluctant Vampire on March 13, 2015

    I've had this book on my kindle for awhile and kept meaning to read it but there was always something going on; finally I said "No more! I will read this or else!" And I'm glad I did. LC's humor, seen in her myriad short stories, gets to shine through in this vampire parody. Eugene (whose initials spell EEK) is not your average junior high kid. Plagued by bullies, embarrassed by his step mother, and adept at clumsy escapades, Eugene is famous throughout the school for his humiliating hi-jinks. His life can't get any worse. But of course, it can. Eugene (literally) runs into a kooky old vampire who accidentally bites him. Trapped in the change, Eugene tries to find a way back to humanity before it's too late. Though most YA books are predictable, this one had many surprises hidden among the laughs. I won't spoil it, but suffice to say there were several scenes I did not see coming. If you're looking for yet another serious YA vampire story then give this a miss, but if you want something that not only pokes fun at the genre, but manages to hit werewolves, diary stories, and about every other YA book out there, give this a read.
  • The Living End on Feb. 25, 2016

    This is the fifth book I've read by Steve Evans and one of his best. Mercy, a journalist in Germany, is contacted by an extremist environmental group for a story. Their meeting doesn't go as she expects, and when she comes to she's been kidnapped. Held as a prisoner, the only thing they want from her is to listen to what they have to say and tell it to the world. But whispers of an "event" may mean there's more to this group's ideals than meets the eye. With plenty of action, including a shootout with a rival extremist group, enough sex to keep things interesting, and a theory that gives just enough information to make the reader hit google, but not enough to bore them, the book reads fast and smooth and left me thinking about it days later. Told from the perspectives of four characters, Evans has done a great job of distinguishing between the personalities and giving each a unique voice. Ludi is the gem of the story, and I wouldn't mind seeing more of him!
  • The Dimidiums Book One Bound by Love on April 18, 2016

    I thought I reviewed this back when I read it, but apparently not! Eek! That's terrible because this book deserves the good review! The Dimidiums - or Hablings as they call themselves - are human/vampire hybrids with a society all their own. Trevor, the son of a high council member, is essentially a tracker who hunts down the bad guys - which are usually full blooded vampires. His world makes sense until he takes an assignment to deal justice to a murderer who happens to be human. Oh, and a beautiful woman. It doesn't take long for Trevor to discover she's innocent, but can he convince her to accept his world? The handling society is interesting and their mythology is original and creative. A new take on vampires.
  • Crusade Across Worlds on July 04, 2016

    It's another awesome entry in the Arizal series! As the book description says, Fallon finishes her training and joins the usual crew - including the super hot Reid - on an adventure that sees them moving seamlessly from world to world. Fallon has grown as a character, not just personal growth, but physical growth as well. She's gone from being a pretty normal twenty-something in book 1 to a kick butt fighter. This is a transition that few authors handle well, and generally leave me shaking my head and saying "yeah right," - but not Coppola! She handles it beautifully and makes Fallon's transition feel not only plausible, but believable. Another thing she does well is turn a phrase. I always enjoy her writing and this book was no exception. Several of the descriptions, such as "His fingers unfold like flower petals in bloom", literally made me stop reading and think "Dang! I wish I'd thought of that!" And did I mention Reid? Still as hot as ever, a little bit of a love triangle gives him the chance to be just possessive enough to be hot, but not so possessive as to be creepy. Even better, I appreciate the way Fallon handles it - no throwing herself at the other guy like so many book heroines do. Basically this book (and thes series) are a perfect example of the right way to handle...well... everything! Coppola has an amazing sense of timing and flow, and seems to know just when we need some action, or some tension, or a tragic flashback, or some romance. I don't want to get into too much because of spoilers, but I can say that I loved, loved this book and I love, love this author and am so excited for whatever she writes next!