Double the action, Double the pleasure ...

My first blog/book tour for She Kissed a Vampire has come to a close. Thank you to everyone who stopped by, friend-ed me on Facebook, followed me on Twitter, commented on the posts, and purchased the books. Thanks to the amazing sites that hosted stops on the tour and took the time to read and review the series. I'm happy to report that every review was either the always coveted 5 STARS, or the next best 4 STARS. That warms my writer's heart! 

If you didn't get a chance to take part, no worries. I plan to share some of the posts, interviews, and other items of interest right here. I will be announcing the winners of the BIG GIVEAWAY any day now. Just waiting for final contact information for one of three readers who won:

An eBook copy of I Kissed a Dog, book one in the Werewolves of the West series. A copy of She Kissed a Vampire, book two, a $10.00 Amazon gift card, and a cool key-chain featuring the covers of my books. I'm sure a bookmark might find its way into the prize pack as well. They have a way of doing that, you know. 

One of the things readers and reviewers are enjoying in She Kissed a Vampire is the fact that there are two heroines featured. In this case ... two are indeed better than one. Actually, Two = Ten times the action! Learn why:

Heroines Times Two = Action Times Ten

When I was in the plotting and planning stages for She Kissed a Vampire, I was having a difficult time determining from whose point of view (POV) to tell the story. I knew, without doubt, I had to continue with Chloe and Zane’s relationship. After all, they’d yet to get their Happily Ever After. I’d also ended I Kissed a Dog with a major cliffhanger and a tasty teaser for book two. For these reasons, Chloe Carpenter just had to return, but in what role? Not to mention she was a ‘love her/hate her’ kinda gal. If you think I’m exaggerating, take a peek at some of the old book reviews to see exactly how divided readers were (still are) over my feisty, frequently frustrating, leading lady! Because of her sassy, brassy, sometimes bitchy behavior, I wanted her to grow up in the second book and become more levelheaded. She also needed more sexy-time with her alpha werewolf.

What to do next? Who else to feature? Those were the questions begging for an answer.

So many urban fantasy/paranormal romance books are told from the first person point of view. Others jump between the hero and heroine, a format I do enjoy, and then there are some with the need to cover a lot of ground with multiple viewpoints in third person. On occasion, you will find a mix and match of third and first persons. So many choices for today’s writer! Where certain stories demand a first person telling, others desperately need several third person points of view to carry a complex story-line with numerous locations and subplots.

With all the various options spread out before me like a scrumptious buffet, I was uncertain, frozen by indecision. I wanted to do something different, something fun, and make my paranormal fantasy adventure unique in a market overflowing with new and delicious books just waiting to be devoured by hungry readers. I didn’t want to do the back and forth between-lovers-dance, and I’d already started off book one using Chloe to tell the tale in first person. But now I found myself with two primary female characters with equally important roles and romances to share.

Why not let them share the spotlight?

That was my thought, and I stuck with it. Doing something I hadn’t really seen a lot of. I decided to reveal my world from the first person viewpoints of two female characters (best friends who’d drifted apart) and had come together again in a time of crisis. The result: two intertwining stories, two romantic journeys, two plot lines that crisscrossed and built on the other in order to reach a shared and climatic conclusion. Did it work? You’ll have to tell me!

Ultimately, I believe having two heroines increased the romantic elements, added more depth, created deeper conflicts, and triggered more action and adventure. In my mind, that’s good stuff! Two Heroines equal Ten Times the action … that’s an equation for supernatural satisfaction.

I hope you will join Chloe and Melanie as they struggle to fix their friendship, redeem their relationships, and, of course, save the world. You can read their stories in She Kissed a Vampire. Oh, and I’ll let you in on a little secret. They both kissed vampires, but only one of them takes a bite. 

Book Tour Schedule

Here is the link to the entire Book Blog Tour presented by Bewitching Book Tours. I hope you will stop by the sites and say hello. And enter the giveaway, of course!

Get the Book Tour Schedule here

Blog Tour Day One is off to a Superb Start!

My Book Blog Tour with Bewitching Book Tours is rolling out tomorrow. However, one of the wonderful blog sites has already published their post. Head over to Diane's Book Blog to read an Author Interview, Book Excerpt, and enter a new Prize Pack Giveaway that you won't want to miss. 

Visit Diane's Book Blog Tour Stop

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Werewolves of the West Updates and Excerpt

My book blog tour with Bewitching Book Tours is just around the corner. I'm so excited to share my series with new readers and bloggers, some all the way across "the pond" in the UK. Too cool! I will be posting the schedule of blog stops soon. In the meantime, I'd like to share the dates, some of the fun book swag prizes for the accompanying giveaways, AND a new excerpt from She Kissed a Vampire, book two in the Werewolves of the West series. 

1. Mark you calendars! Great Giveaways, Excerpts, Interviews and more along the way. 

2. Check out the amazing key chains! Make sure to enter the upcoming giveaways associated with the blog tour. Don't worry. I'll post more details on how to win. 

3. Take a minute to read another excerpt from She Kissed a Vampire:

Melanie Larson

With a giant on both sides and Ava trailing close behind, I made my way down the faery equivalence of a Hollywood red carpet, my bare feet sinking into the squishy-soft fabric. If moss and velvet mated, this carpet would have been the result.

 I was grateful for Ava’s sound advice. She’d suggested that I go barefoot to show my respect for nature, something faeries valued, and more importantly, so I wouldn’t fall flat on my face. I was glad I’d listened. For some reason, I felt almost powerful. Ready to react to whatever misadventure found us. I’d been warned, again by Ava, that this would be a night to remember, and not for its quality comforts and peaceful prattling, but for its raunchy revelry and gross indulgence. The atmosphere already hinted at the debauchery to come.

Frighteningly beautiful creatures, scantily dressed, lounged around tables overflowing with obscene amounts of food. They stopped their celebrating as I was paraded by with my own unique entourage. My appearance causing them to murmur and giggle amongst themselves. For most, their eyes remained cold and hostile contrary to their blinding smiles. They found me interesting, perhaps even intriguing, but that was as far as their favor extended. I was an unwelcome outsider who’d caught the fancy of their prince. Though honoring me was required etiquette, liking me was not.

Ava had made certain to explain the importance of this event. I was the honored guest of Prince Kellen, The Dark Court’s future sovereign. His father alone outranked him. From what I’d learned while she completed my dazzling hair design, Kellen had always been domineering and indulged to the extreme by daddy-o, the Unseelie King. No one knew for certain whom his mother was considering the current king preferred young men in his bed.

According to Ava, he’d bedded the previous queen and then banished her to the human realm following the birth of their son. Others believed Kellen was an adopted child, possibly negotiated away from the Seelie Court and their light worshiping brethren. It was rumored that he bore resemblance to the light court twin, Nox. The other light twin, Lux, had been missing since early childhood. One more unsolved faery mystery.

I didn’t have time to ponder further. An elevated dais, featuring one grand table laden with colorful foods and floral arrangements, rose up in front of the room. Kellen had risen and extended his hand, waiting for my arrival.

 A hush fell over the rowdy room. The gleam in his strange swirling eyes told me everything I didn’t want to know. He found me far more appetizing than the exotic foods. My heart stampeded and I trembled in his presence. My heightened senses, though somewhat decreased since my initial reaction to Ava’s blood, still intensified my responses.

Kellen looked like a golden sex god. His hair tumbled over sculpted shoulders and seemed even longer than I remembered, its length doing nothing to diminish his masculinity. He was shirtless, his lean form rippling with muscled perfection. I heard Ava gasp behind me, equally taken by his untamed sensuality. Even with my bond to Alcuin and Ava’s blood donation, I wasn’t immune to his appeal. He’d managed, with the help of his father’s magic, to turn up the dial of his desirability to a whole new level. If they succeeded and somehow found a way to break my blood bond, I’d be doomed for sure.

He helped me up the few stairs onto the platform and kissed my forehead chastely, making me shiver. Heat spiraled down my legs, and I swayed toward him. He chuckled and ran his finger over my cheek. I leaned closer to my sworn enemy, disgusted by my body’s betrayal. I was beginning to doubt my faery helper. What if her blood had made me more susceptible to Kellen? I had a terrifying feeling that I might have been conned by the one faery I’d so wanted to trust.

“Ava, you outdid yourself this time. She is exquisite. You have earned a place at my table this evening, as an equal.” Kellen gestured for her to join us.

Her sharp intake of breath told me this pronouncement was unexpected and highly unconventional. “My Lord?” Her voice shook.

“Please, you have earned it.” He directed her to the seat on my left, forcing another fae to move aside.

The king, who appeared no older than Kellen, clapped his hands together three times. The crowded hall erupted into conversation and music, surprising me. I hadn’t realized just how quiet the room had become. With everything back in motion, the king directed his attention toward me.

“She is indeed lovely. Breathtaking even. Maybe I should make her my queen and extend my reign. What do you think, son? She would produce a remarkable heir.”

The whole table paused, all eyes on their king. The audience suddenly silent again, seemed to collectively hold their breath, their shock tangible. I was as dumbfounded as the rest. This was a turn of events I hadn’t anticipated.

“Father …?” For the first time, the prince looked like a lost little boy about to lose his favorite toy.

“Don’t look so surprised, Kellen. You have assumed that I am ready to step aside and transfer my kingdom to you. Unfortunately, you are impulsive and have little skill in governing. How would the humans say this? Ah yes … ‘it’s all about me.’ In this case, it’s about you. It’s always about what Kellen wants.” He sniggered at his humorous attempt. The others laughed on cue, but were clearly made uncomfortable by his puzzling comments.

Glancing between the two faeries, I wasn’t sure who was the lesser of two evils. Kellen was a known commodity. His father, especially after his outburst, was a mystery.

I decided to test the water and bowed my head. “You flatter me, your Lordship.” I lifted my eyes in what I hoped was a coy demonstration of my approval.

The king’s face blossomed with light, his pleasure evident. “Kellen, move next to Ava. Melanie will sit at my side. I find her a refreshing breath of air.”

The prince’s mouth had fallen open, and he looked ready to cry. I almost felt sorry for him. Almost. Ava looked pleased and winked in my direction. I wondered what she was up to now. Maybe she was on my side after all, though I didn’t doubt that her personal satisfaction would always come first.

“A toast!” The king rose.

 Everyone clamored to their feet, goblets raised. Unsure what to do, I followed along.

“We drink to my future bride!”

Refusing to drink, Kellen glanced between me and his father before snapping his fingers. An assortment of fae separated themselves from the audience, swords drawn.

“I’d hoped to avoid this awhile longer,” Kellen said and then shrugged. “You should have left what is mine alone.”

“What is the meaning of this?” the king sputtered. “Sit down, son, before I have you removed. I will forgive this transgression with the understanding you think you’re in love or some other nonsense.”

Kellen made no move to obey. Instead, he glowered at his father who was beginning to look alarmed. Ava tapped my leg and pointed under the table. Together we slid beneath.

The last thing I heard before the clashing of metal was a swooshing sound and a loud thud. Turning toward the thud, I found myself looking into the still aware eyes of the king—the king’s head minus his body to be more exact.

Holding back my scream was impossible. I wailed like a banshee and grabbed for Ava as my forced engagement feast erupted into a Dark Court civil war.

Would you like to read more? If so, you can find She Kissed a Vampire at the following online retailers. Paperback is coming soon. 

Kindle

Nook

KOBO

And don't forget to leave a review! I value your thoughts and opinions, and, more importantly, so do other readers who are trying to determine what to read in this vast market of reading choices. Ratings and reviews left on Goodreads are also much appreciated!

More to come ...

EXTRA! EXTRA! Price Drop on She Kissed a Vampire eBooks!

That's right! My publisher has dropped the price for the New Year. That makes January 2014 the right time to grab a copy of She Kissed a Vampire for your reading device of choice. Trade Paperback will be available soon. I'll let you know the moment it hits the shelves. 

Feast your eyes on Zane Marshall the hot alpha male Chloe Carpenter finds herself attached to. First three people to comment on this post will win an eBook copy of my first book in the Werewolves of the West Series: I Kissed a Dog. Spread the word and win!

See What Readers Are Howling About!

I Kissed a Dog "A Must Read!"

Get your copy now! 

                        Click a link below to choose your favorite reading format. 

Kindle 

Nook 

Amazon Trade Paperback

Barnes and Noble Trade Paperback

KOBO

Where can I get my copy of I Kissed a Dog?

Where can I get my copy of I Kissed a Dog

Book One: Werewolves of the West? 

Great Question! Let me provide some links for you ...

Praises for I Kissed a Dog:

"For me, I Kissed a Dog is one of the most thrilling, entertaining, and mysterious reads of 2012. From beginning to end, I couldn't get enough of this story." 

- Jessica McQuay, Author of Black Moon -

"I Kissed a Dog by Carol Van Atta is an engaging, witty, Paranormal Romance with a hunky shape shifter hero, an alluring (but dangerous) vampire adversary, and a spunky heroine who keeps them both on their toes. Well written and fun to read, this exciting tale is full of adventure. If you like Terry Spear or Molly Harper, you will enjoy Carol Van Atta." 

- Tessa Dawn, Author of the Blood Curse Vampire series -

"I loved it! I was wrapped in this story from the beginning to end. 

I could only walk away from it when I had no other choice." 

- Brenda Demko, Crazy for Books Reviewer - 

" ... the plot moves along so quickly and it keeps you turning the pages. The chemistry between the two main characters is awesome. If you love spunky and sexy couples, these two are for you. But that isn't saying that is all there is in this book. There are suave and sexy vampires, fae, mutants, and evil werewolves. This book has it all. Seriously. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves paranormal romance or just an awesome romance! Great Job Carol! I Kissed a Dog is a winner!

- Alison Beightol, Author of Blood Destiny -

"Wow! Spent the whole day reading ... it was great ... loved the wolf and vampire romance ... she picks the right one. This book was so good, I just couldn't put it down. If you like Nora Roberts, JR Ward, or Christine Freehan, you will love this book. Yes we have another great writer. The book is full of surprises. You can never guess what is coming. I cannot wait till the next book. Enjoy!"

- Gabby's Best Words, Amazon Reviewer -

Click on the links below to get your copy!

Amazon Trade Paperback copy of I Kissed a Dog

Kindle copy of I Kissed a Dog

Barnes and Noble Trade Paperback copy of I Kissed a Dog

Nook copy of I Kissed a Dog

kobo copy of I Kissed a Dog

Preview the Book Trailer on YouTube

Check out the Book Blog Tour at 
Bewitching Book Tours

The Blog Tour Continues!

Angry werewolf above. What big teeth you have ... 

Okay, back to the Blog Book Tour. I am a bit behind on what's been happening. I hurt my back. Ouch! That's my excuse. 

Check out the places I've been featured since the last update. 

CLICK TO READ THEIR REVIEW OF I KISSED A DOG.

CLICK TO READ PROMO POST

A Bibliophiles Thoughts on Books

Visit Bibliophiles for a I Kissed a Dog Promo Spot

Carly Fall Where Fantasy Meets Romance

Visit Carly Fall's site for a I Kissed a Dog Promo Spot 

(I couldn't find blog badges or buttons for the last two sites. I'd love to display them if available.)

Christmas Surprises ...

Random Gifting is Fun! 

With Christmas around the corner, I've been overcome with a giving spirit. I love going to my author Goodreads page and perusing the Goodreads readers who have marked I Kissed a Dog as a book they want to read. 

For the next month or so, I plan to randomly pick readers and "gift" them with copies of my book. Yep. NO strings attached. Of course, reviews/ratings are much appreciated, but not expected. I just want to get my story into the hands of individuals who are eager to read it. 

In addition, I'm working away on book two in the Werewolves of the West series: She Kissed a Vampire. I realize I Kissed a Dog is only a month old, but I can't wait to continue the adventures of Zane, Chloe, the Pacific Pack, their vampire friends, and enemies. Book two will introduce a whole new group of supernatural players. Not to mention, more action, mystery, and romance. In the future, I will be looking for pre-publication readers willing to read book two during the writing process while providing feedback and suggestions. Participants will of course receive a free book for their efforts, and likely, a few other surprises along the way. 

I'm gearing up for my upcoming Blog Tour with Bewitching Book/Blog Tours. The tour starts on November 30. More details to come. 

Werewolf Legends

Werewolves have been the source of legends since the beginning of time. In addition, wolves in general have infiltrated our society with a wide range of wolfy-expressions. 

Here is a list of those Wolfish Expressions:

1. The "wolf at the door" is the bringer of ruin, starvation, and death. 

2. To "throw someone to the wolves" is to condemn or abandon them to utter ruin.

3. To "wolf-down food" is to eat fast and greedily.

4. A "wolf's lair" is the base or headquarters of a sinister or scheming person. 

5. A "wolf" may be a violent or rapacious and violent person, or simply a womanizer.

6. A "wolf-pack" may mean any gang of predators and was used to translate the German word rudeltaktik (literally"pack tactic"), which described the Nazi policy of using a group of submarines (U Boats) to hunt allied shipping convoys in WWII. 

7. To "cry wolf"is to raise a false alarm on purpose.

8. A "wolf in sheep's clothing" is a predatory deception. 

9. A "wolf note" is an imperfect contribution or contributor. 

10. The offensive "wolf whistle" declares that animal passions have been aroused. 

There you have it. Wolfish expressions. Until next time ...

Keep your eyes on the moon. 

Carol