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Release Day! The Thunder Moon – A Time Travel Adventure – Plus New Giveaway

Hello and welcome,

September is right around the corner. Many kids have already gone back to school…and it’s release day! Plus enter to win a signed copy of The Night Medicine, book 1 – (2 winners will be chosen)

The Thunder Moon (The Night Medicine, book 2) is available now.

~ A Old West Historical Time Travel Adventure! ~

On The Back Cover

Blackfoot tribal member Dean Wolfsblood is the keeper of the sacred Dragonfly medicine pipe that makes time travel possible.

When Dean’s medicine pipe goes missing—and there’s chilling evidence his fiancée Kai has been abducted—he rushes to the ceremonial place in the mountains to save her from the cruelties of fate and history. Something Kai knows all too well.

Dean arrives in the nick of time and finds Kai and his pipe in the brutal hands of Weston Bonner.

Weston has crucial information about Badger Lowell, a hoard of gold, and Dean’s long-lost parents. Information that has the possibility of changing everything. Unfortunately, Weston will lie, cheat, and commit murder in order to rewrite history in his favor.

Dean and Kai are forced to return to 1869, but in order to exact their revenge on Weston and survive the past, they must travel to the mining town of Helena, Montana, break Badger out of jail, and evade capture by the vigilante lawmen.

A Wild West adventure filled with time travel, thievery, romance, suspense, and more! 

Read an Excerpt 

There was an entire page written in French that Dean couldn’t read, but the map was obvious for what it was. It was successful gold mines discovered during or after 1869.

Then Dean found the paragraphs that had to do with his father. The uncertainty of whether or not any of it was true and how things affected Kai raised the hairs on his arms and the back of his neck. He was still studying the page when Weston spoke up.

“Your father is alive, and he will find Kai,” Weston said.

Dean had not realized Weston had been watching him.

“Where did you find this information?”

“My family records mostly. The Bonners like genealogy and preserving their history.”

Dean glanced at the page he was holding open. “How do you know it’s true?”

“I was meticulous as I cross-referenced my family’s old journals with a few different sources and historical records. No one in recent time believes a small obscure band of Piegan Blackfeet owns a medicine pipe that travels through time, but I found you. I suppose I don’t know how much is the truth and how much has changed since someone decided to write the events down, but I trusted the journals and it worked.”

Dean’s sense of providence, destiny, and or divine intervention hovered in front of his nose and demanded to be noticed, even if for the moment, the truth was still intangible and lacking full form.

“I’ll take you with me to Helena and you can see for yourself we are only pawns in some greater scheme of life. You don’t have a choice, do you, Dean?”

He couldn’t answer at first and continued to stare at the papers.

“You still don’t believe me? Take a closer look at the back of the last two pages.”

Dean turned the papers over. He noticed the writing on the back of the last pages was different, but he examined the paper with more care and a couple things immediately stood out. “This is photocopied,” he said.

“Yep.”

“And the handwriting is Badger’s.” Dean recognized the writing from studying Badger’s journal the summer before.

“These last two pages are copied from his journal. Notice the date?” Weston said.

The date written was over two weeks from now—in 1869—which means Badger survives and begins writing down what happens to him after his time spent in jail. As Dean continued to stare at the photocopy in near disbelief, Weston said, “Read Badger’s words carefully and I think you’ll understand why you will be accompanying me to Helena.”

~ End Excerpt. Find out what happens next in The Thunder Moon

On Amazon  Available in Ebook and Paperback  

Enter to Win a Signed Paperback Copy of The Night Medicine (book 1)

Two Winners will be chosen at random. – Giveaway runs from 8/26/21 – 9/5/21

Click here to enter – Rafflecopter or below

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I sincerely hope you enjoy reading The Thunder Moon.

And I am already working on book 3. Besides writing this summer, my family and I visited Montana for a week – which is always incredible writing research – but we also had a wonderful visit with family members who I haven’t seen for a very long time. It was a much needed break and, of course, went by too fast. Time spent with loved ones always goes too fast.

Now I am back in my office, writing and doing everything needed for releasing the new book.

One small step in releasing a new book is trying to get book reviews. Reviews can be as short as “Great book! I loved it.” Any positive star ratings or reviews are always appreciated. Thank you very much if you’ve left a positive review or star rating on any books.

If you have any questions or comments, you can reply to this email and I’ll receive them in my inbox. I hope you are doing well and enjoying these last few weeks of summer.

Thank you for being here – and good luck in the giveaway! 

Cheers and happy reading, 

Jody A. Kessler

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Win a Subscription to Kindle Unlimited – Plus a .99 cent Sale!

Hey there,

I’m dropping by to invite you to enter to win a 6 month Kindle Unlimited subscription!

And I wanted to say thank you to everyone who celebrated the release of Tempt Me Twice! I hope you have been enjoying the new Romance with Altitude series and finding a few laughs within the pages. 🙂

If you haven’t had a chance to read Divining Elise – Granite Lake Romance book 4, now is a great time to download a copy for only .99 cents.

Divining Elise has never been offered at a sale price, and I thought a special sale would go nicely with the giveaway.

The Just for Fun Paperback Giveaway Winner from March was Karin H.!  The book was already mailed.

Keep reading for a little more info. about Divining Elise and the link to the giveaway is below… 

Divining Elise

Elise Martinez wished her date with destiny didn’t include being run off the road by the most caring, handsome, and intelligent man she’d ever met.

Moving to Granite Lake to manage a bookstore and coffee shop meant Elise could finally leave her haunted past behind, but being a psychic mom to a deaf child has its benefits and downfalls—and her guarded heart isn’t ready for a new romance.

Rob Everett never imagined giving up corporate law to open a brewery with his brothers in Granite Lake would begin with a car accident and the arrival of a surprise baby.

As if being a single dad and starting a new business weren’t challenging enough, Rob can’t get the beautiful, mysterious, and feisty bookstore manager out of his mind.

For Elise and Rob, falling in love is a complicated, sexy, and emotional enterprise.

Mix in a baby, a haunted brewery, craft beer, and a dangerous ex-husband into this recipe of love and their future isn’t as easily divined as the fates would have foretold.

**A steamy, stand-alone novel with a happily ever after.

.99 cents for a limited time ~ Amazon

“Great characters and a wonderful plot make this an awesome read.” – Teri at Reading Out Loud Book Blog

Read An Excerpt

Elise rose from the couch and disappeared from the room. When she returned, she handed a paperback book to Rob.

“I bought this for you.”

He looked at the cover front and back. “I haven’t read this author.”

“He’s one of my favorite sci-fi authors of all time. The new book in the series came out yesterday.” She held up another book for Rob to see. “If you like it then I’ll bring you number two when you’re ready.”

“Are we having a reading date, Elise?”

“Is it too nerdy for you?”

“No. I’ve just never read with someone before,” he said.

“Well then you’re really missing out.”

“I guess I’ve been missing out on a lot of good things. I’ve never had homemade chimichangas or been whupped at the Memory game by a munchkin, either.”

“We’re pretty awesome like that.” Elise sat on the couch next to her son, Colton, who was already fast asleep. “Don’t tell anyone. I don’t want the word to get around about us.”

“I wouldn’t let this secret out. It’s too good to share.”

One eyebrow rose and she opened her book. Rob likewise began reading and to his surprise, he was instantly sucked into the story. After the first few chapters, he realized Maisie needed her nighttime bottle. He set the book on the coffee table to take care of his daughter. The sci-fi author was good. Really good. He could have kept turning pages for hours if he didn’t have responsibilities to take care of. After putting the baby in bed, he lifted Colton from the couch and carried him to the guest room. Elise took care of Colton, then joined him in the living room. The novels were forgotten and all Rob could focus on was Elise.

She took his hand and led him to his bedroom. Sixty-nine became Rob’s new favorite number. Elise was insatiable. Rob couldn’t believe how incredible their chemistry was. There was no ebb to their flow. He only wanted more of her.

— End of excerpt —

Divining Elise (Granite Lake Romance) is

Available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited

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GIVEAWAY TIME!

ENTER TO WIN a 6 Month Subscription to Kindle Unlimited 

5 Winners will be chosen!  Yay!

This giveaway is hosted by a group of authors and the landing page is over at RomanceBooks.Blog – CLICK HERE

Please be aware of the terms and conditions before entering. 

Giveaway runs April 23-29, 2021. 

Thank you for being a part of the reader community and good luck!  I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

Cheers and happy reading, 

Jody A. Kessler

“It’s not true that I had nothing on. I had the radio on.” ― Marilyn Monroe


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Winners Announced ~ Read an Excerpt from Tempt Me Twice

Hi there,

Welcome to spring! I hope you are well and reading some wonderful books. I am definitely looking forward to the end of winter, although it has been snowing A LOT this month. That’s a good thing since we have been very dry this winter. I live next to the National Forest and any moisture is welcome to help reduce the risk of fire.

I wanted to thank everyone who celebrated the release of Tempt Me Twice!

I enjoyed running a giveaway so much that I am doing another one. It’s so fun to win a little gift (especially this year) and I hope the winners love the books I mailed out.

For this giveaway, the winner will have their choice of one autographed paperback in the new Romance with Altitude series.

In case you missed the list of winners on Facebook or the blog post, here they are:

Tempt Me Twice ~ Reader Appreciation Giveaway Winners:

Rafflecopter chose the winners at random.

Pam W. , Jenny C. , Ellie W., and Brook L.

Congratulations! Emails were already sent. One prize was not claimed. Please check your spam folder if you think you are one of the names mentioned. 

Keep reading for an excerpt from Tempt Me Twice, A Three Peaks romantic comedy!

Link to the new giveaway is below… keep scrolling and reading. 🙂 

READ AN EXCERPT

JEREMIAH LIMPED past Tawny, and if she were not mistaken, his gaze lingered on her chest as he entered her home.

To say she was offended was true—yes, she was—but she also secretly savored the feeling of his eyes on her. Her work shirt wasn’t what anyone would call sexy, and he’d still looked. She calmed her tits and kept the eye roll to herself. Pig. Was the insult toward herself? Him? Both. Crap. She was in so much trouble… and she’d just ordered him to remove his pants. Tawny knew her devil and angel were riding shotgun on her left and right shoulders. The decisions she made now would inevitably, for good or bad, be with her forever. Didn’t she have this self-talk earlier today? Her lunch break felt like ages ago.

Jeremiah stood at the intersection where the open concept kitchen met the living room and the hallway veered off to his right. He pivoted slightly and gave her the side eye as his hands moved to his belt. He unclasped the buckle.

Was Tawny staring? Oh, Lord, yes, she was. She blinked and looked into the kitchen, suddenly famished. The apple and cookie she’d eaten earlier hadn’t been enough to satisfy her appetite. Saliva collected in her mouth and she swallowed. Having Jeremiah inside her apartment was definitely not a good idea. Tempting much? Definitely. Hurt or not, she was certain Jeremiah wouldn’t mind obliging her randy fantasies and acting out a few of his own. Bad Tawny, bad girl. The inner struggle was real, even if Bonnie’s torture lived inside her head.

Tawny was about to tell him she’d changed her mind and to forget the examination and she would drive him anywhere he wanted, but then Jeremiah spoke.

“Is your restroom over this way?”

She stopped staring at her enthralling kitchen cabinets. His belt hung open and he hiked a thumb toward the bathroom door.

“Yep. Help yourself to whatever you need. I’m going to make some food? Do you need something to eat? I’m starving. Lordy, I could eat a whole cow.”

He gave her the customary Tawny-is-speaking-like-a-deranged-mental-patient look. Everyone she’d ever met eventually gave her the same look. She’d learned to not take it personally.

“Food? Yeah, sure. I’ll be a minute.”

“Yo, okay. Great! Take your time,” she said as she stuck her head in the refrigerator. “I’ll be ready for you when you’re done. I need to take care of my blood protein sugar calcium deficiency.” Oh my. She needed to shut up. Could this be hormone imbalance? Tawny didn’t know, but maybe she should take a class on it. One of the ways she was planning on handling her impulse control and falling in love with any cute guy who found her interesting was to distract herself by learning something new. She actually had her first class the following weekend.

Tawny wasn’t only starving for aggressive crotch cuddling with a male partner, she was actually hungry. She was also extremely low on provisions. Inside the fridge, a single container of peach yogurt stared back at her. She bent down, opened the drawer, and found a package of smoked sausage. She pulled it out and flopped it on the counter. Inside the cabinet where she kept dry goods and canned food, she discovered baked beans.

Lonely sausage and beans? It could be considered a sign, right? Beanie weenies? Pork and beans. Oh, yeah, she was about to get stuffed. Tawny mentally slapped herself. Her delusions and self-talk sounded like terrible sex jokes. She started cooking and looked for anything else that might turn the mediocre, definitely not gourmet, dinner into something slightly more appetizing. A packet of corn muffin mix jumped out of the cabinet and into her muffin tin. Perfect. Sort of. She definitely needed a trip to the store.

After putting the corn muffins in the oven and the sausage and beans in pans on the stove, Tawny hurried to her room to change out of her dirty and damp uniform. As she passed by the bathroom, the sound of the shower caught her attention. He’s taking a shower?

Tawny paused by the bathroom door and listened? It’s not eavesdropping if it’s in my own house, right? It didn’t matter because there was nothing to hear other than running water.

After putting on clean clothes, Jeremiah still had not appeared. She couldn’t wait any longer to eat and made a small plate of food. After inhaling the sausage—yes, she was aware of the bad colloquialism—she ate the baked beans and the timer for the muffins dinged. Tawny set the pan of corn muffins on a hot pad and was about to check on him, but he stepped out of the restroom.

A cloud of steam billowed around Jeremiah and the scent of her favorite raspberry coconut shampoo drifted toward her. His damp, messy hair and freshly scrubbed face were centerfold worthy. Then she did a double take. Tawny blinked, rubbed her eyes, and stared… hard.

“Are you wearing my bathrobe?”

Jeremiah’s chin dipped toward his chest as he stared at himself. “Yeah.”

Tawny stood there staring in bewilderment at Jeremiah’s legs. The man had the legs of a professional athlete. Well, hello there, envy, my old friend. It wasn’t right to be jealous of a dude’s legs, but they were shapely… and long. And hairy. Her eyes traveled upward and landed on the spa length turquoise robe with the satin belt. Jeremiah was over a foot taller than she was and the robe came to just above her knees. It was entirely too short on him. She tipped her head to the side and couldn’t help but wonder if he’d left his shorts on or if his ding-dong and cupcakes were dangling inside her bathrobe. She could use a cupcake right now. Did she have any left? She’d bought a box of them from the store a while back, but suddenly couldn’t remember if she’d eaten them all.

“My eyes are up here, sweetheart.”

— End of excerpt —

Tempt Me Twice (Romance with Altitude, #3) is Available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited

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GIVEAWAY TIME!

One winner can choose an autographed paperback copy of Tease Me Once, So Tempting, or Tempt Me Twice.

Terms and conditions are on the Rafflecopter. TL:DR you must be eligible to win, and paperback copies will only be mailed in the USA or APO addresses. CLICK HERE TO ENTER Rafflecopter or enter below:

Giveaway ends March 31, 2021.

Thank you for being a part of the reader community and good luck! 

Happy reading, 

Jody A. Kessler

***Giveaway is over and the winner is Karin H.! (winner posted 3/31/21)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Tempt Me Twice ~ New Release & Giveaway

Posted on February 25, 2021

Happy Release Day! Tempt Me Twice (Romance with Altitude, #3) releases today!

I’m celebrating in the usual way authors do… by obsessively watching my various online dashboards and social media pages. Just kidding, sort of. I celebrated when I finished writing Tempt Me Twice. The novel took longer than I hoped (thank you, 2020 – the never ending year.) But just so you have an idea of how glamorous my writing life is. – I celebrated with a chocolate croissant and a latte. – Don’t be too jealous. Extravagance is my middle name. Joking aside…

I’m also celebrating release day with a Reader Appreciation Giveaway! You can enter to win one of three autographed copies of Tease Me Once or an Amazon gift card!

Let’s move onto the new book(s). Did you know that I also released So Tempting last month and Tease Me Once in December? Keep reading to find out more about the new Three Peaks romantic comedies ~ Romance with Altitude series.

On the back cover of Tempt Me Twice:

Armed with her favorite beaver underwear, a new job, and endless optimism, forest ranger Tawny Brooks is starting over in the small town of Three Peaks.

During her move to Colorado, a hot and irresistible cowboy makes an offer she can’t refuse.

After an outrageous one-night stand, Tawny vows to never see Jeremiah again—and she’s determined to leave her bad decisions in the past once and for all.

But when she arrives in town and they’re forced to work together, Tawny discovers that Jeremiah isn’t going away any time soon.

Rancher and playboy Jeremiah Erickson doesn’t believe in love or happily ever afters. He’s content with his bachelor lifestyle and too busy recovering his losses after the Forest Service revokes his grazing permits to get involved with Tawny.

So why is the funny and wildly unpredictable forest ranger everything Jeremiah never thought he wanted?

Don’t wait to find out what happens next in Tempt Me Twice: A Three Peaks Romantic Comedy.

READ AN EXCERPT

“Ranger Tawny Brooks. That’s definitely a name of consequence.”

Tawny jumped at the sound, but Jeremiah’s voice was unmistakable.

She put her hand up to her ear and leaned in. “I’m sorry, I didn’t catch that. The batteries on my darn hearing aids need charged again.”

“Are we going right back to lying, Ranger Brooks?” He leaned against the back of a full-sized pickup truck parked next to hers.

She laughed in spite of herself, then kept up her stalling tactics. “What’s that? I can’t hear well in the dark.” When he disappeared after the meeting, she couldn’t have been more grateful. Now that Jeremiah was confronting her alone, she didn’t know what to do or say. She wasn’t supposed to ever see him again.

“Is that so?” he muttered.

“Probably.” Tawny held her ground and wondered if she could vaporize then reappear inside her truck and drive away without having to face him and deal with the consequences of her spontaneous nature. Did he know he was standing between her and her truck?

“Did you track me down in Three Peaks after the Cattle Ranchers’ Association banquet in Estes? Should I be worried you’re suffering from some kind of erotomania?”

“What? No,” she said adamantly then asked, “Erotic what?”

“Still pretending to have selective hearing, eh?”

“No. Yes. I don’t know,” she said, her amusement and confusion growing simultaneously. “But I’m definitely not erotically delusional. Whatever word you’re worried about does not apply to me. Erotic mania. What is that?” The confusion was making her head hurt. Do conversations with cute men usually need a brain Band-Aid?

He crossed his arms over his chest. “How did you find me here? Or better yet, how did you find me in Estes Park?”

“I didn’t. I’m pretty sure you found me, and I had no idea you were from Three Peaks. Believe me, dude, if I’d known I would ever see you again, I would not have, well, you know, at the hotel or whatever.” She flipped her hand in the air in the general direction of his crotch. Yeah, great. Point at his dipstick. That helps clear things up. She wanted to smack her forehead with the same flippant hand but refrained.

Jeremiah dropped his arms and stepped away from the truck. He moved into Tawny’s personal bubble and stared down his nose at her. He was even sexier than she remembered, which was slightly shocking and blowing her mind. She was certain she’d imagined his level of sex appeal being off the charts, but nope, her whiskey goggles hadn’t been that cloudy. His level of hotness was beyond scorching. Jeremiah was surface-of-the-sun hot. Her eyes widened and she tried not to breathe in for fear of becoming intoxicated on his scent.

“It’d be nice to believe you, but how can I? You show up in town and give your little spiel about saving the weeds and toads after seducing me. What are you playing at, Ranger Brooks?”

— Want more? Find out what happens between Jeremiah and Tawny in Tempt Me Twice (Romance with Altitude, #3)

Available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited

GIVEAWAY TIME!

Three winners will be chosen for an autographed paperback copy of Tease Me Once (Romance with Altitude, #1) — or your choice of any autographed paperback in the Romance with Altitude series.

And one winner will be chosen to win a $5.00 Amazon gift card. Terms and conditions are on the Rafflecopter. TL:DR you must be eligible to win, and paperback copies will only be mailed in the USA or APO addresses. CLICK HERE TO ENTER or enter below:

( Giveaway ends March 10, 2021. I will email the winners and announce them in the next newsletter.)

**The giveaway is over. Rafflecopter chose the winners at random and here they are: Pam W., Jenny C., Ellie W., and Brook L. Congratulations! Emails have been sent.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tempt Me Twice early readers have this to say:

“this book was a very enjoyable and entertaining read!” 5 Stars!

The storyline was great and the characters were so well developed that Tawny and Jeremiah kept me totally glued to my kindle until the very last page! ” – Pat on BookBub

“I loved how this book made me laugh and lift me up, but also gave me that exciting mystery of who was causing trouble. I strongly encourage you to read the book.” – Becky on Goodreads

“I really enjoyed this book, Tawny and Jeremiah story was funny and endearing.” 5 Stars! – Diane from Goodreads

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An Angel Falls Series is now a Box Set

Check out this gorgeous new box set 🙂

An Angel Falls (books 1 – 4) is now a box set collection.

Over 1,300 pages of angels, romance, drama, angst, magic, shamanism, ghosts, and twists you’ll never see coming!

Death Lies Between Us – book 1

– Winner of the Readers’ Crown Award for Best Paranormal Romance. –

Saving the life of someone you love should not be the worst thing you have ever done, unless you are an Angel of Death.

Dissatisfied with his position in the afterlife and conflicted by his feelings toward his new client, Nathaniel Evans foregoes the rules of being an Angel of Death and saves nineteen-year-old Juliana Crowson from a deadly accident.

In the rugged mountains of Colorado, Juliana develops her paranormal abilities with the help of a temperamental Native American Shaman and ghost hunter. She quickly decides she wants nothing to do with the supernatural world. Too bad she doesn’t know that Nathaniel is part of it. 

Will fate bring these two together or has Nathaniel made the biggest mistake of his afterlife?

Angel Dreams – book 2 (new and revised edition)

Supernatural boundaries will be crossed as Angel of Death, Nathaniel Evans, risks his eternal soul to save the one he loves, the paranormally gifted and nature-loving Juliana Crowson.

While working with a new client, Nathaniel finds out that pissing off a demon-wielding warlock in order to help a suicidal teen may be the last thing he ever does as an angel.

Unable to stand aside, Juliana’s involvement in Nathaniel’s new case quickly develops into a misadventure with gun-toting bikers, a succubus, and a shamanic exorcism performed by her Native American friend, Chris Abeyta.

Haunting Me – book 3

Nathaniel’s newest case sends him on a perilous and magical journey to the Irish countryside in search of one unattainable answer: How does an Angel of Death fall from grace and return to life?

Destined to Fall – book 4

Nathaniel Evans is the Angel of Death who breaks the rules.

His newest case, Steven, is a misguided pyromaniac who lies, cheats, and steals horses.

Juliana communicates with ghosts, reads auras, and dream travels, but her empathy and visions of wild fires compels her to rescue the stolen horses with help from Chris Abeyta, the anti-social shaman and ghost hunter.

For Nathaniel, loving Juliana and keeping her safe is the ultimate goal, but falling from grace is a hazardous and forbidden undertaking.

Love is worth every sacrifice… and sometimes we are destined to fall.

* * * * * * * * *

A new adult/young adult sweet & epic paranormal love story. Download your copy today!

An Angel Falls series is quite different than my Granite Lake Romance series. These books are paranormal and urban fantasy romance but they are sweet romances (meaning no steam.) These novels explore many aspects of the metaphysical and there are some darker themes – including teen drinking and drug use, death and the afterlife, suicide, possession by a succubus and more. <– **content warning.** However, there is a happily ever after.

If you’re here for the romance and not the paranormal, I totally understand. And I thank you for reading! …or not 🙂

Amazon is still offering 2 FREE months of Kindle Unlimited to new subscribers. CLICK HERE if you would like to try it out. (U.S. residents only. Please read the terms and conditions.) – All Jody A. Kessler books can be found HERE.

“Ms. Kessler writes a supremely beautiful story of loving against all odds.” – Coffee Time Romance & more ★★★★★

“The BEST book I’ve read this year!!” – Amazon Reviewer ★★★★★

“I couldn’t put the book down well into the night.” – Vine Voice Amazon Reviewer ★★★★★

“I loved this book. Kept me on my toes.” – Amazon Reviewer ★★★★★ “a magnificent masterpiece of fantasy writing. I was immediately hooked from page one and dreaded having to leave the novel for necessities such as food and sleep. This is one awesome read that demands full attention. I so love this book and am gonna read the rest of the series now.” – Amazon Reviewer ★★★★★

As always, I wish you the very best.

Be on the lookout for a COVER REVEAL – My newest romantic comedy is coming – Tease Me Once (Romance with Altitude – book 1)

Cheers and happy reading,

Jody A. Kessler

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Hey, Long Time No Blog! How about a .99c sale and a FREE offer?

It’s true. I’ve been ignoring my blog… and my newsletter. That makes me a little sad, but I haven’t forgotten about you! I’ve just been busy writing.

Thank you very much for being here and for your patience.

On the writing front, I’ve been writing consistently – and I have a new contemporary romance/romantic comedy series coming soon. Books 1 & 2 are finished but waiting for editing. Also, The Night Medicine, book 2 is nearly complete. Life keeps getting in the way, but I am making progress toward publishing. For now… enjoy a sale and/or FREE Kindle Unlimited.

Chasing Treasure – Granite Lake Romance – is on sale for .99cents. On Amazon (sale ends Friday night March, 27th.)

In case you missed it, the first 4 books in the Granite Lake Romance series have been combined into a box set collection. This is great if you are a Kindle Unlimited reader. Reading the box set in Kindle Unlimited gives you 4 books as a single borrowed title. (You’re only allowed to borrow 10 titles at any given time, so box sets are slightly more efficient for readers who devour a lot of books!) On Amazon reg. price $9.99 or free in Kindle Unlimited.

All my novels are currently part of the Kindle Unlimited reading program. Amazon is currently offering new subscribers 2 FREE months of Kindle Unlimited. CLICK HERE if you would like to try it. (U.S. residents only. Please read all terms and conditions.) – All Jody A. Kessler books can be found HERE.

This is a wonderful deal from Amazon to help us get through these unprecedented times. Both my husband and I are self-employed and we are dealing with self-isolation and all these sudden changes to our lives like everyone else, day by day. No matter where you are in the world, I hope you are staying healthy and you’re taken care of.

Wishing you peace of mind as we get through this together,

Jody A. Kessler

Oh, one last thing: Are you looking for your free copy of The Call, An Angel Falls novella? This is a free short novel you receive when you sign up to join my newsletter. If you somehow missed this freebie, HERE is the LINK to download The Call. *Please note*, this novella is a paranormal ghost hunting story with Juliana Crowson and the shaman, Chris Abeyta. The Call is not a romance.

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Catching Kiera – New Granite Lake Romance

Today is the day! Happy Book Birthday!!

Catching Kiera – book 6 – in the Granite Lake Romance series is available now! Amazon
Included in Kindle Unlimited and in Paperback

Book Description

Kiera Sawyer has always been a free spirit at heart. Her wanderlust and campervan take her wherever a new adventure awaits—which is often to the next music festival.

That is until she meets Denny, a biker mechanic whose Viking good looks and bachelor status are well known in the small town of Granite Lake.

Denny Masters was born with a calling to build motorcycles. Contrary to the rumors, he’s not anti-social or anti-women, but he does spend a lot of time in the garage.

That is until he meets Kiera at the grand opening party for Black Bear Brewing.
Unfortunately, it’s Denny’s old acquaintance, Jolene, who introduces them—and drunken shenanigans and miscommunication do not make for the start of a solid relationship.

While Denny tries to catch Kiera’s attention, Jolene doesn’t seem to be able to take no for an answer. Thankfully, Denny is heading to Motor and Metal Fest where he can sell bikes and get to know Kiera better.

A road trip and a music festival with a gorgeous, intriguing, and fun woman makes Denny believe the pieces of his life are finally coming together.

But Kiera isn’t being totally upfront about her personal life—or her relationship with her boss, Ash Wilde, the CEO of the company.

Will Denny and Kiera stick together through a tangle of misfortunes, a love triangle Kiera never saw coming, and Jolene’s stalker tendencies, or will they lose the trust, hope, and love they’ve found in each other?

**A drama-packed, fun, page-turning wild ride filled with heartfelt, steamy romance and traveling the world—because catching Kiera is a love worth fighting for.
**This book contains mature language and romantic scenes.
**Catching Kiera is a stand-alone novel. However, some of the characters in this book are also in the other Granite Lake Romance novels.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Early readers had this to say,

I loved Kiera and Denny’s story! If you’ve read any of Ms. Kessler’s Granite Lake Romance series, you’ll recognize both characters. If you haven’t, then what are you waiting for?” – Amazon Reviewer

“Add in the cutest dog, Jinx, witty humor with no filter, and some unbelievably weird requests, and you have a hilarious and wonderful love story.” – Amazon

Reviewer“I’ve read several books by Jody A. Kessler and I must say Catching Kiera is one of my favorites.” – Amazon Reviewer

I hope you love the new book! Denny and Kiera have unbelievable chemistry and they are a FUN couple!
Truly, Catching Kiera was a joy to write. <3

Thank you for your continued support!
Be on the lookout for a new & special giveaway coming next month! Especially if you like paperback books!! (hint hint)

Cheers and happy reading,
Jody A. Kessler


Catching Kiera is on Amazon Goodreads BookBub
Hey… You made it to the end of the post!

Are you a Kindle Unlimited subscriber???
If you’re looking for new romance novels to devour, you can check out this Romance Book Fair – There’s also a $50 Amazon gift card giveaway – All the books are either .99 cents or part of Kindle Unlimited. on Magic Book Deals

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Cover Reveal! Catching Kiera ~ NEW Granite Lake Romance + Exclusive Sneak Peek
Hello again!
Have you been wondering about the new Granite Lake Romance novel, Catching Kiera?
Your wait is almost over! Catching Kiera will be published on Thursday, June 20th.
Here’s a look at the new book cover! I adore the design, and as the author, I love how accurately the cover models represent Kiera Sawyer and Denny Masters.
What do you think? Do you have a favorite cover from the Granite Lake Romance series? Let me know! I would love to hear your opinions and comments. <3Pre-order your copy of Catching Kiera today – on Amazon

About the book –>

Kiera Sawyer has always been a free spirit at heart. Her wanderlust and campervan take her wherever a new adventure awaits—which is often to the next music festival.

That is until she meets Denny, a biker mechanic whose Viking good looks and bachelor status are well known in the small town of Granite Lake.

Denny Masters was born with a calling to build motorcycles. Contrary to the rumors, he’s not anti-social or anti-women, but he does spend a lot of time in the garage.

That is until he meets Kiera at the grand opening party for Black Bear Brewing.

Unfortunately, it’s Denny’s old acquaintance, Jolene, who introduces them—and drunken shenanigans and miscommunication do not make for the start of a solid relationship.

While Denny tries to catch Kiera’s attention, Jolene doesn’t seem to be able to take no for an answer. Thankfully, Denny is heading to Motor and Metal Fest where he can sell bikes and get to know Kiera better.

A road trip and a music festival with a gorgeous, intriguing, and fun woman makes Denny believe the pieces of his life are finally coming together.

But Kiera isn’t being totally upfront about her personal life—or her relationship with her boss, Ash Wilde, the CEO of the company.

Will Denny and Kiera stick together through a tangle of misfortunes, a love triangle Kiera never saw coming, and Jolene’s stalker tendencies, or will they lose the trust, hope, and love they’ve found in each other?

**A drama-packed, fun, page-turning wild ride filled with heartfelt, steamy romance and traveling the world—because catching Kiera is a love worth fighting for.

**This book contains mature language and romantic scenes.

**Catching Kiera is a stand-alone novel. However, some of the characters in this book are also in the other Granite Lake Romance novels.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Exclusive Excerpt ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Through the summer, Denny watched Bodie Everett and his brothers remodel and update his father’s old bar, Floyd’s Tavern. From day one, Denny followed their progress as the Everetts stripped and replaced the siding off the exterior, gutted the interior, worked on the roof, upgraded the deck, and replaced just about everything inside and out of the old biker bar. But the surreal moment of entering the newly renovated building hit him on a level he’d not experienced before.

He practically grew up inside this building and now, with all the changes, he hardly recognized the place. It was too bad his father hadn’t come back to town for the grand reopening. His dad would have liked what the Everett brothers had done with the place. The updated interior had a rustic yet modern look about it. The beer couldn’t be better, and from the appetizers he’d tasted, he was destined to become a regular customer.

Growing up with a biker father had its perks and its pitfalls. Denny appreciated his freedom to do what he wanted whenever he wanted but his childhood wasn’t what most people would envy.

Too many memories cluttered his mind as he finished drinking a dark stout while listening to the band. The visit down memory lane wasn’t the purpose of attending the night’s party. He wouldn’t dwell on the past, but he didn’t disparage the nostalgia either.

Denny ordered a shot of Macallan Scotch whisky with a beer back from a passing waitress. Tonight, he celebrated with new and old friends. He reminisced over the past and looked forward to the future. His custom motorcycle business was doing better than ever, and thanks to his old friend, Treasure Vogle, renting her building to him, he had a new shop that could grow his business and provide a place to live. Denny had plenty to celebrate.

He glanced at the door that led to the deck overlooking the lake, and that’s when he saw her. He knew he’d never met her before because he would have remembered. She walked inside and smiled right at him.

Her kind, warm eyes and lovely face appealed to him first, but when he saw the rest of her, she was the whole package, from the strawberry blonde hair to the boots on her slender feet. Not many women caught his eye these days. Not that Denny lived like a monk… Okay, maybe he lived like a beer drinking, solitary, garage monkey, gear head most of the time, but he wasn’t a total recluse.

In all honesty, it had been a while since he’d been with a woman. Dating didn’t come easily or naturally for him. Most of the time, Denny found that women who were interested in him made the first move, and he didn’t object to having the attention of a pretty lady. But all too often, his girlfriend would try to move in with him before they truly knew each other, or she wanted him to play dad to their kid, or she didn’t care for the number of hours he spent in the garage. Eventually, they disappeared from his life—sometimes after blowing up and yelling at him for being him, or for not changing to suit their needs.

This woman, however, might call for an actual first move made on his part. He couldn’t remember ever wanting to speak to someone so strongly before. Damn. Denny ran his fingers over his scalp. Uncertainty fogged the inside of his head and made thinking difficult. His mojo fled the scene and left him hanging. This was an instant problem. Denny’s heart rate picked up as he wondered what the hell he was going to say to this babe.

She was probably way out of his league. Would she wrinkle her nose at the first sight of his grease-stained hands? It’d happened before. Some women didn’t like him because of his job. Well, screw that. Any person who thought they were better than him because he knew how to build a motor or restore a vintage Harley could piss off.

Yet the way she moved was so fluid and alluring. The tug on his loins wouldn’t be ignored. The gracefulness of her body caught his attention and he felt like he was being stalked by a panther, but it was a good thing. Her exposed neck and the top of her shoulders caught his gaze and led to imaginings that needed to be further explored. But it was her face with expressive eyes and inviting mouth that held him totally captivated. He wanted to hear her voice. Nothing was worse than an annoying voice. That was another reason Jolene irritated him. He’d rather have someone prodding his eardrums with tweezers than listen to Jolene say “Denny Bear” one more damned time.

A couple of guys stepped in front of the stunning woman and stopped her from approaching Denny. He sidestepped to clear his view of her, but the waitress reappeared with his drinks. With a drink in each hand, Denny glanced back at the gorgeous babe to make sure he hadn’t lost her in the crowd.

She fiddled with her hands and wore a tight-lipped smile as she said something to one of the men. Her gaze met Denny’s, and if he wasn’t mistaken, her eyes and the corners of her lips softened when they made eye contact.

He’d be damned if she wasn’t just as interested in meeting him as he was her. He had to find out. And the way she edged away from the two dudes said she really wasn’t interested in them.

Man up or get the hell out, his brain ordered. It hadn’t been that long since he’d introduced himself to an available woman, had it? Yes, yes, it had. His internal dialogue was murdering him. He was rusty. That wasn’t even close to being accurate. Denny had no skills in the picking-up-women department. Man, he sucked at this. What was he going to say? Only the worst clichéd lines came to mind. Can I buy you a drink? Are these two dirt bags bothering you, gorgeous? He may as well ask her astrological sign, or better yet, what her cat’s sign was. That ought to seal his celibacy for the next decade.

He watched as she rolled her eyes at dude number one, and with more confidence than he felt, Denny strutted over. “Hey there. The waitress just brought our drinks. Would you like to take them back to our table?”

“I’d love to,” she said and reached for the shot glass. The smile she flashed confirmed his suspicions that she didn’t want to be cornered by these two dip-wads any longer. And better yet, she was looking at him the way he thought.

Denny raised a challenging brow at the two bros. They weren’t altogether pleased about his intrusion, but didn’t question her. He kept up the pretense and led her across the dining room and away from the band where it would be easier to speak and be heard over the music.

Just when his confidence received the small boost by her agreeing to step aside with him, she struck it right back down….

(oooh… a cliffhanger! Yes, I just did that.) You’ll have to read the book to find out how Denny and Kiera’s first encounter turns out.

But seriously, Denny is one of my favorite heroes of all time! He’s sweet but powerful and totally swoon-worth sexy-with both his words and actions. I hope you love him as much as I do.

If you pre-order Catching Kiera, Amazon will deliver the ebook to your device as soon as the book is released! Pre-order HERE

Thank you for reading!
Cheers,
Jody A. Kessler

Photo credit: Lindee Robinson Photography
Models: Katlin Blake and Evan Cloyd
Cover design by Sommer Stein, Perfect Pear

~ Are you on BookBub? You can follow me on BookBub or leave reviews here: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/jody-a-kessler

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The Secret to Enjoying Kale – Yes, Really. Kale Tastes Good!

I ate kale and I liked it.

How is this possible?! you ask? Seriously, before today I was under the impression that kale is a close cousin to crabgrass, except crabgrass tastes better.

So here’s my secret to enjoying kale. (I think I actually love it now!)

–> Add potatoes, Italian sausage, and bacon. Oh, and some cream, broth, and a dash of cayenne pepper.

I made Zuppa Toscana. It’s a wonderful hearty soup with tons of kale.

Here’s my recipe:
Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage (spicy)
• 3-4 russet potatoes, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 32 ounces chicken broth
• 1/2 bunch kale (or swiss chard), destemmed and cut/torn into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-n-half if you want to save a few calories)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cayenne pepper to taste (a dash or two is enough)
• 1/4 cup bacon, cooked and chopped

Directions:

Brown Italian sausage in a sauté pan. (I remove the excess fat on a paper towel before adding to the pot.)

Place sausage, chicken broth, garlic, potatoes and onion in a large pot. Add just enough water to cover the vegetables and meat.

Cook until potatoes are soft.

Add the kale, salt, pepper, and cayenne to taste. Cook the kale for 5-10 minutes or until the kale is tender.

Add the cream and bring the soup back to boiling. Turn off the heat. Stir in the crumbled bacon and serve.

~*~*~*~

This is one of my favorite comfort soups. (Forgive my poor picture. My camera changed the color a little bit.)

You too, can join the health food craze and eat your kale! – just kidding – but seriously, this recipe is really good. Some people substitute Swiss chard or spinach, but spinach is a lot softer and turns to mush easily, whereas the kale does not. And let’s not discuss Swiss chard. I’m not that brave yet.

By the way, Zuppa Toscana pairs well with bread and butter, wine, and a good book! – lol

Side note: the leftover kale tastes great in an omelet or egg scramble. Be sure to add some mixed veg like bell peppers and some cheese & enjoy!

Cheers from my kitchen to yours,
Jody A. Kessler

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How I Broke My Brain – By Writing a New Book

I’m starting a new book today! – Hooray! But… to be honest, I’ve been telling myself this for a few weeks.

This month, I’ve come up with a new romance series and the basic plot and characters for 3 new books (to start with.)

Then I decided I should write a different book in a series that I started 4+ years ago. (Yes, yes, I know some of you are waiting for these books – and I am now going to continue, and hopefully finish, The Night Medicine series!)

After doing some research, I was feeling a little stuck on some of the plot points – so I took the time to refill my creative well – and rearrange my brain from contemporary romance to historical – and after a great yoga class, I mentally worked things out! YAY! –> more or less –>

While contemplating the complexities of timeline, multiple main characters, history, politics, & meshing storylines A B C D E F & G through Z, and not forgetting anything in the first Night Medicine book,

I broke my brain. – Yep, I’m broken.

Did you know that writing is really hard?

Like level 3 trillion-gazillion difficulty. — This *might* be part of the reason I haven’t returned to historical fiction. 🤷‍♀️🤦‍♀️🤓

That’s not totally true. I generally write what I feel like writing and contemporary romance has been super fun to write, and completely challenging in its own right.

But just because the new book will be my 17th novel, doesn’t mean things get easier. It might even be harder because the pressure and expectations I put on myself to make each book better are extremely high.

However, I do like a challenge. 😊 So – onward and upward! I’m piecing together the broken bits of my brain today and putting it all back in place. Hopefully, this will turn out to be another fantastic page-turning adventure in Old West, Montana and the Blackfoot Nation.

Historical fiction and time travel have been a passion of mine since I was a child. I foresee that I will be lost in this series for a while to come.

If you need me, please visit the years 1860 – 1870. That’s where I’ll be living for the rest of 2019. 😉

Unless, of course, I need some romantic comedy in my life, then I will be in the present time writing sexy, funny things that make me LOL.
#WritersLife #Amwriting #WritersAreTheirOwnBreedofHuman

As always,
Cheers and happy reading
Jody A. Kessler

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Do You Love Funny, Steamy Romantic Comedies?

Detecting Autumn released a few weeks ago and I was thinking about some of the fun scenes from the book as I work on the next novel in the series, Catching Kiera.

Today, I thought I would share one of my favorite excerpts from the novel:
But first – the book description – which should help set the stage so to speak on what Detecting Autumn is about:

On the back cover:
“All’s fair in love, war, and romance novels.”
Bestselling romance author, Autumn Alex Monroe lives and works by her misguided credo.

Whether she’s jumping from planes, dating members of the mafia, or falling for the detective who’s trying to find out her true identity, Alex will do anything to write the perfect novel.

Private investigator turned brew master, Shane Everett, is selling his detective agency and moving to Granite Lake to open a brewery with his brothers.

When mafioso, Gabe Moretti, offers Shane easy cash to investigate his girlfriend, the witty and sexy author Alex Monroe, Shane takes the job.

Shane soon discovers that Alex has multiple personas, she’s weird, wild… and totally irresistible.

Plus, she needs Shane’s protection from the sociopathic goon who claims to be her boyfriend.

With Alex’s bizarre sleep disorder, a wedding held at gun point, and their off-the-charts attraction, Shane and Alex will have you cracking up with laughter and swooning over every page.

Excerpt:
“Alex is short for Alexandria,” she said, watching his response.

Shane didn’t hesitate and started typing on his laptop again.

“Are you looking me up? Right in front of me?” she asked.

“I am. It’s not a problem if you don’t have anything to hide,” he said, then added, “You’re named after a school and it’s not in Texas.”

The waitress appeared at the side of the table holding a carafe of coffee. “Would you like a warm up?”

“Please,” Alex said.

She refilled the cups and moved on.

Alex deliberately ignored Shane’s questioning glances and picked up her mug, buying some time before answering. Sweat collected under her arms and the warning bells chimed louder inside her guilt-ridden conscience. She chugged the coffee like it was the shot of inspiration she desperately needed, and promptly burned the ever-loving mother out of her tongue and throat. Hot coffee spurted from her mouth and nose and sprayed across the table.

“Holy monkey hellfire!” She reached for the nearest glass—her coffee-flavored Arnold Palmer—and swallowed the cold tea, then held ice cubes in her mouth to try to squelch the sensation of her tongue being emerged in lava. Tears collected in her eyes and her chest felt tight as she tried to breathe through the pain.

Shane dabbed a napkin against his face, then across the laptop. “Is the coffee a wee bit warm?” he asked.

She nodded. The ice cubes froze her tongue and the roof of her mouth, but the burning wouldn’t stop. Alex swallowed some of the melted ice water and wished it would cure the searing pain in her throat. “Sowree,” she mumbled around the ice.

The waitress appeared again and looked at the wet table and the front of Autumn’s now coffee-stained shirt.

“I think we’re finished here. Can you bring the check?” Shane asked.

They paid and returned to Shane’s 4Runner.

“How’s your mouth?” he asked.

“Nevah betta,” she said almost incoherently. Her tongue felt like it was three times its size and mostly numb. She wanted to laugh at the ridiculousness of the situation, but laughing moved her throat, which caused more pain.

“Are you ready to go back to your hotel?” he asked after starting the engine.

“Yass, pleee.” She sounded like a lunatic on a bender.

Her burnt tongue had conveniently gotten her out of the conversation about her identity. Was it a win-win? Based on the damage to her tender tissue, she thought it was more like a lose-win.

They pulled out of the lot and Alex watched for any dark sedans. She didn’t see anything or anyone suspicious.

“I’m concerned about your burned mouth. Third degree burns are serious. I know a little test to help determine if there’s going to be any permanent damage. The test might indicate whether you need to visit a walk-in clinic,” he said conversationally.

She eyed him. Was he serious? “Whaa is it?” Alex needed to stop talking. She didn’t want to make things worse. Anything but a suggestion to buy ice cream was unacceptable.

“If you can say the words, ‘I was born on a pirate ship with a bunch of apples,’ then I think you’re in the clear. Go ahead and try it so we’ll know if we should head to an Urgent Care or not.”

Alex scowled, even though the corners of her mouth twitched with humor. She said as clearly as she could, “I met a pirate ship named Shane who was a total apple.” And it came out sounding exactly like, “I met a pile of shit named Shane who was a total asshole.”

He laughed and the deep resonate sound entered her ears, caressed down the length of her spine like a lover’s tongue, and settled in the apex of her womanhood. Damn. That was not the response she wanted after calling him an asshole. His eyes crinkled at the corners when he smiled and his teeth were white, straight, and the tips of his canines were pointed and incredibly sexy. He had a lot of positive checkmarks. She inhaled slowly and decided she needed to find his faults quick, or she was going to make more bad decisions which included Shane Thompson.

“Why don’t you put the wig back on? Just to be safe,” he said.

She reached back onto the floor behind their seats where she’d deposited the wig and picked up the dinosaur head. “We’re switchin’ roles this time,” she mumbled and slipped the T-Rex mask on, then tossed the wig into his lap. She wasn’t sure if he understood her words, but he caught her drift.

“Whatever floats your goat, Alex,” he said, the smile staying in place.

He circled the lot before parking near the rear entrance.

“The tires on my car are fat,” she said, pointing at a red Mini Cooper. “Flat,” she said more slowly this time, but the word still sounded like fat.

“Alex,” Shane said, his smile vanishing and his tone becoming more serious than she’d previously heard from him before.

She couldn’t stand the sound of her swollen tongue, so she gave him a questioning look which he couldn’t see because of T-Rex.

He backed into a parking space and cut the motor. “I’m going to escort you inside and I’m bringing my gun. If you would rather find a new hotel instead, we can do that.”

She gave it some thought before opening the door. Hadn’t she wanted the full mafia experience? She definitely did, and Shane Thompson joining her misadventure was buttercream icing on her danger cake.

She had to collect her belongings from her room, but more importantly, she needed her computer.

Shane finished adjusting the blonde wig on his head, then reached for the floor. He sat back up, holding a small hand gun. He tucked it into the back of his waistband underneath his shirt.

“Concealed carry?” she asked, but it came out all flibberty gibberish because of her tongue.

He seemed to be able to translate. “It’s legal, if that’s what you’re asking.”

“You’re a cop, aren’t you?” she said, but nothing coming out of her mouth sounded right.

“Did you just clear your throat or did you ask to see me…. cock my pistol?” He glanced at his crotch, slid her the side eye, and tilted one eyebrow suggestively. “I don’t usually show and tell on a first date, Ms. Monroe. You ready to do this?”

“Sweet Jesuits, you’re full of yourself,” she mumbled, grabbed her bag, and stepped into the balmy night.

~*~*~*~

If you’d like to read more from Detecting Autumn, the book is available on Amazon in ebook and paperback.
I loved writing Detecting Autumn and I hope to continue writing more romantic comedy in my next series.
Do you have a favorite scene from the book or any of the Granite Lake Romance novels?

I hope you do. You can comment below and let me know!
As always…
Cheers & Happy reading,
Jody A. Kessler

By the way, Catching Kiera should be available in April.

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Happy Release Day – Detecting Autumn – Granite Lake Romance + Giveaway!

Detecting Autumn – the new Granite Lake Romance is available today!

Release day is a wonderful and exciting experience. I’m thrilled to share this novel with you and I’m absolutely in love and laughing at Autumn and Shane’s wild adventures together. These two are crazy – and maybe crazy about each other. – Keep reading for the book description and an excerpt from the novel.

Hooray! I’m also giving away a $20 Amazon gift card to celebrate!

About the Book 

“All’s fair in love, war, and romance novels.”

Bestselling author, Autumn Alex Monroe, lives and works by her misguided credo. From wild and outrageous adventures to dangerous and sexy flings, she’ll do anything in the name of book research, including dating Gabe Moretti, a well-known member of the mafia.

Confirmed bachelor and private investigator, Shane Everett, is selling his detective agency and moving to Granite Lake to open Black Bear Brewing with his brothers.

When Gabe Moretti asks Shane to investigate the stunning and eccentric author, Alex Monroe, he says, no, but blackmail and mafia persuasion convinces him to take the case.

Shane quickly learns that Alex is a witty, sexy, and secretive woman… and she needs his protection from Gabe, the sociopathic goon who claims to be her boyfriend.

After a kidnapping and a forced marriage—while dealing with Alex’s bizarre sleep disorder—not to mention her multiple personas—Shane discovers that detecting Alex is exhilarating and hazardous.

…But most shocking of all, he finds that Alex’s hilarious antics and unpredictability have captured his heart.

**A steamy, hilarious, and drama-packed romance with a happily ever after.

**Detecting Autumn is a stand-alone novel in the Granite Lake Romance series

Available on: Amazon

Included in Kindle Unlimited

Read an excerpt from the novel:

COMBINING DRUGS, ALCOHOL, AND PARASOMNIA is a volatile cocktail in any circumstance. Throw in a good old-fashioned kidnapping, a pitch black closet, and a misogynistic psychopath, and Autumn found the pot of fool’s gold at the end of a black rainbow. She groaned, rolled over, and threw up.

“Wow. That’s—” The male voice shifted away from her in the dark. “That’s a potent odor.”

Autumn wretched again. Acid burned her esophagus and she knew she’d never drink bourbon again. Not even to save her life.

“I aim to impress.” Her voice croaked like a bullfrog with laryngitis. She spat into the mess, trying to clear away the rank taste.

“You’re succeeding,” he said. “Autumn Alex, the girl with two names and two boyfriends.”

It was Shane who spoke. She recognized his voice. Or, more like, she recognized her body’s response to the appealing timbre of his voice. A tiny involuntary moan rose from her chest.How was that possible? With a raw throat, the sound came out as more of a garbled belch than a seductive whimper.

“I don’t have a boyfriend—or two of them, either—you yank wanker,” she said. Autumn didn’t deny having two names. Actually, she currently used four names plus a corporation name, but Shane didn’t need to know that right now. “How long was I out?” she asked.

“Less than an hour, I think,” he said. “There’s no clock in here.”

Fuzzy recollections of the previous forty-eight hours slapped around inside her head as she scooted across the carpeted floor. Memories mingled with the distorted and incomprehensible dreams she’d been having and increased the churning nausea inside her stomach.

With arms outstretched, Autumn searched for anything in the absolute dark. She found smooth walls and the floor beneath her and nothing else. Autumn breathed deep, trying to clear her mind and settle the roiling upset inside her gut. Her thoughts cleared, but the sick feeling remained. She understood that Gabe Moretti was the source of her stomach clenching and overwrought nerves more so than the drug he’d slipped into her bourbon.

“It feels like I slept for hours,” she said.

“No. Although, I think you’re part feline. You take short naps and lash out with uncalled-for attacks. You’re all teeth and claws for no reason at all,” he said.

“What did I do this time?” Autumn found Shane when her fingertips brushed against his leg.

He grunted for an answer.

Autumn stopped searching their makeshift prison. “No one has ever compared me or my sleeping problems to a cat before, but I see the resemblances. I’m independent, but occasionally need the company of others. I’m athletic, but a little finicky.”

“And a psychotic man-slayer,” he said, interrupting her cat analogy with his own.

She sat back against the wall and laughed. Shane may not be joking, but his remarks eased the knots of tension that had taken up residence along her spine and between her brows.

“Think what you will about me, but I’m not a man-slayer,” she said.

The sound he made was somewhere between another grunt or clearing his throat. Either way, she got the impression that he blamed her for their current predicament of being locked inside Gabe Moretti’s secret room…

~ Want more?  Download your copy HERE

Enter to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card

Happy Release Day – Detecting Autumn!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thank you for taking a moment out of your day to catch up on the blog and for checking out Detecting Autumn. I sincerely hope you find yourself smiling and laughing with the residents of Granite Lake.

Good luck in the giveaway!

Cheers and happy reading,

Jody A. Kessler

“Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

If you enjoy reading the Granite Lake Romance novels, would you please leave a review on Amazon? Reviews help authors in many ways, but they also help other readers decide which books to purchase and read. A short sentence or two is all it takes and your positive comments are greatly appreciated.  🙂  Thank you!

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A Winter Morning in the High Country – Author Ramblings

Author Notes on a Friday morning… With a happy ending!

I’ve been awake since stupid o’clock. This is extra difficult since I stayed up late reading a book (as I often do) and the dogs were off and on awake throughout the night.

Why the 5 a.m. wake up call?

Because today is day 1 of Winter Ski Club – I don’t ski – but kidlet does and he’s been awake sine 4:?? a.m. – super excited, and can hardly contain himself about hitting the slopes for the first time this year. – I always wake up to pack his lunch and help him out the door.

After making sure he has enough food to last him a week, a pair of mittens, extra gloves just in case, hand warmers, a hat, snow suit, snow boots, bottle of water, and thirty warnings about safety – plus a, “Have fun today!” – I thought to myself – “I’m going back to bed and sleeping until I ABSOLUTELY have to get up and go to my DENTIST appointment.” — ugh. — Just what I want to do on my ‘bonus’ free day. I’d much rather be finishing my novel but the dentist appointment was already confirmed and I’M GOING, no matter how much I don’t really want to. – Does anyone really want their teeth scraped and gums prodded?

While snug beneath the covers and desperately trying to shut up my thoughts and sleep – something I’d been attempting since 11 pm last night – the phone rings. It’s John. He’s STILL at the bus stop waiting for the activity bus. He wants me to check with the teacher about where the heck the ski bus is and why it’s so late.

By the way, we have a landline here at my cabin in the middle of the Colorado wilderness… and I currently do not have caller I.D.  — The lack of caller i.d. is a minor inconvenience and an ongoing story of woe and phone company drama for another time, but I throw it in now to say, I have no idea who is calling until I pick up and say, “Hello?”  <— How very eighties of me, I know. Don’t judge. I dislike cell phones anyway. And now you know how backwards and out of date John and I really are. – I’m only partially kidding.

I make the call for him, even though I suspect the bus is late because A: there’s a crazy amount of fresh snow outside and it’s still coming down.

And B: it’s Day 1 of Winter Ski Club. Bonus, the teacher/club organizer is new this year.

But I call anyway, (I don’t send a text to the teacher because no cell phone, remember?) in my dark office, because it’s still stupid o’clock in the morning. I’m half dressed and getting colder by the second because I jumped out of bed to answer the phone which is in the other room. The teacher miraculously answers and says, “she’s on the bus and they are about 3 minutes away from the bus stop.”

Great news! I call John back. He doesn’t answer. – Confession: We actually do own cell phones. Old ones. Flip phones. And we only use them when traveling. Seriously, my phone is about 12 years old, which is why I still try not to send text messages.

I call John one more time, because I JUST spoke to him but he doesn’t answer again. — This is the joy of trying to use a cell phone in my area. Spotty reception at best – in a snowstorm – on his flip phone – in the dark. By this time, it’s now actually starting to get light outside.

And I am really cold by this point and I should put on some pants, and socks, and probably a sweatshirt.

Needless to say, I did not go back to sleep. John arrived about two minutes after I found my pants. Yoga sweatpants, let’s not get too crazy here.

AND>>>> while sitting at my desk doing admin. stuff, while caffeinating my poor sleep deprived brain, and waiting until I have to forge a path to the dentist through the worst snowstorm we’ve had all winter, which will take me over an hour to get there ( because of the weather and road conditions) the phone rings again.

My dental hygienist says hello and asks, “Are you coming to your appointment this morning? You can reschedule if you want to. The roads are terrible. It took me 3 times longer to get to work this morning. Everyone’s canceling due to the weather.”

I process her words slowly – I’m still tired and my one cup of Irish breakfast tea hasn’t really made any difference. – My brain slogs along with the conversation and finally goes something like this; What? Seriously? Yes!! Of course I want stay home and work on my book all day while I watch the snow come down outside my window, and my kid is having a great day at ski club!

I play it cool and politely reschedule my appointment.

Friday for the win! Snow Days aren’t just for kids!!

And now that I’ve shared my Friday notes, I’m off to clear the snow from my solar panels which helps keep our the batteries charged, and then finish writing Catching Kiera – Granite Lake Romance, book 6. – I also need (another) hot cup of tea or the whole pot.

In case you missed it, Detecting Autumn releases next Tuesday. I’m trying not to let my nerves take over, but I am nervous about the upcoming release. I hope you love the new book as much – or more – than I do. Also, I’ll be blogging again on Tuesday with a giveaway and an excerpt from the novel.

I hope you had more sleep than I did, and if you like to ski, I’ve heard that the snow is awesome in Summit County.  – I took a screenshot for you. You can also google, “Ski areas in Summit County Colorado” to find out more. – but notice every ski area says, “powder”! and look at that base (summit depth)! — that’s right, Kidlet is in heaven today!

No matter what you are doing, or where you are, have a fabulous Friday and a wonderful weekend!

Stay warm out there.

Cheers,

Jody

Granite Lake Romance

“Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home.”  ― Edith Sitwell

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Book Spotlight ~ News ~ and Happy New Year!

I thought I’d share a book from Jody Holford with you today.

Yes, she spells her name the same way I do, which isn’t a common way to spell Jody. Our name is often spelled Jodi or Jodie. That isn’t the only thing we have in common. We also both write romance. So let’s check out her new release – Caught Looking by Jody Holford.

By the way, when my kid was very young he nicknamed me, Jodes. This isn’t my favorite family nickname but it stuck and “Jodes” has become a running joke.  🙂  Do you and your family members give each other nicknames? I swear we have dozens. And the dogs have their own nicknames too! It’s silly. — And now back to book blogging —

Jody Holford’s new novel.

Sometimes where we end up is exactly where we need to be.

Frankie Vaughn is eager to leave the empty—and phony—socialite life behind in search of something real. Nothing could have prepared her for how very real things get when she discovers three homeless brothers in the run-down rancher she inherits in small town Minnesota.
Ryan Walker never thought about life without baseball but a divorce, a scandal, and a public fist fight land him in rural Minnesota, hiding out from the paparazzi and trying to figure out what is next for him. When a sexy, sweet, and funny woman moves next door, he tries to ignore the immediate attraction but can’t.
Frankie and Ryan fall not only for each other, but the three boys who teach them a new definition of family, love, and loyalty. When the tight knit unit they create is threatened, Frankie is willing to fight, only to learn it might not be enough. When Ryan’s past comes back to hurt the people he’s grown to love, he tries to do the right thing, even if it tears him apart.

Available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited 

Some other news to share with you –

Detecting Autumn (Granite Lake Romance – book 5) is available for pre-order and will be released in one week! January 15th. – WE’VE REACHED THE FINAL COUNTDOWN to release day! Whoo-hoo

About the Book

“All’s fair in love, war, and romance novels.” Bestselling author, Autumn Alex Monroe, lives and works by her misguided credo. She’ll do anything to write the perfect novel.

Confirmed bachelor and private detective, Shane Everett, is determined to find out Autumn’s secret identities but mayhem, danger, and hilarity quickly turns his world upside down.

Throw in the mafia, a fake marriage, and an irresistible attraction to one another and Shane and Autumn are a match made in quirkyville.

On Amazon

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Catching Kiera – Granite Lake Romance – book 6 is almost finished. You get to read a love story about Denny Masters and Kiera Monroe. (In case you forgot, Denny is Treasure’s biker friend from Chasing Treasure. Kiera is Autumn’s sister.) There may be a love triangle in this book, but I don’t want to give anything else away. More to come on Catching Kiera in the near future.

In case you missed the link, you can download your free copy of The Call – An Angel Falls novella HERE

I appreciate all my readers and this is an exclusive ebook from me to you just for being here. (FYI – The Call is a ghost hunting short novella. – Not a romance.)

Next week, I’m celebrating the release of possibly my favorite novel of all time, Detecting Autumn, so be on the lookout for a new giveaway and other fun, exciting book shenanigans.

Happy New Year! I wish you all the best in 2019 and always.

Cheers and happy reading,

Jody A. Kessler

“You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.”  ― Dr. Seuss

Granite Lake Romance

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Cover Reveal and December Giveaway!

Hello and welcome,Thanks for stopping by! This December, I’m participating in a Kindle Unlimited book fair and a $50 gift card giveaway… and I’m thrilled to reveal the book cover for the new Granite Lake Romance!So… here it is! The new cover for Detecting Autumn – Granite Lake Romance #5Book Description
“All’s fair in love, war, and romance novels.”
Bestselling author, Autumn Alex Monroe, lives and works by her misguided credo. She’ll do anything in the name of book research, including dating Gabe Moretti, a well-known member of the mafia.
Confirmed bachelor and private investigator, Shane Everett, is selling his detective agency and moving to Granite Lake to open Black Bear Brewing with his brothers.
When Gabe Moretti asks Shane to investigate the stunning and eccentric author, Alex Monroe, he says, no, but blackmail and mafia persuasion convinces him to take the case.
Shane quickly learns that Alex is a witty, sexy, and secretive woman… and she needs his protection from Gabe, the sociopathic goon who claims to be her boyfriend.
After a kidnapping and a forced marriage—while dealing with Alex’s bizarre sleep disorder—not to mention her multiple personas—Shane discovers that detecting Alex is exhilarating and dangerous.…But most shocking of all, he finds that Alex’s hilarious antics and unpredictability have captured his heart.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~*
*A steamy, hilarious, and drama-packed romance with a happily ever after.
**Intended for 18+ for mature language and romantic scenes.
**Detecting Autumn is a stand-alone novel. However, some of the characters in this novel are also in the other Granite Lake Romance novels.
Release Date – January 15th, 2019Pre-order your copy today! Amazon 

(Paperback should be available on by Jan. 15th as well)

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ December Giveaway ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

Are you a Kindle Unlimited Reader??? No? That’s okay! You can purchase any of these books AND you can enter the giveaway.

A December Kindle Unlimited Showcase! Myself and some other romance authors are sharing our Kindle Unlimited books for you to read! Even better, we’ve pooled our funds to offer an awesome giveaway!

Enter to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card. It’s just our way of thanking our loyal readers. (please make yourself aware of the official rules and terms of service before submitting your email address for a chance to win.)

ENTER HERE – Dec. GIVEAWAY

Next month, there will be a brand new giveaway hosted by myself in celebration of the release of Detecting Autumn.  –  The new book is probably my favorite of all time. I sincerely hope you enjoy it!

Cheers, Happy Holidays, and Merry Christmas. Wishing you many blessings this winter and always,

Jody

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The Yin-Yang of Burrito Giving (How to change your acidic headspace & find positivity.)

Hubs brought me a breakfast burrito this morning.

What a good guy. ❤️❤️❤️

I take back all the bad things I’ve ever said about him. 😉

haha – only kidding –

But he really is a good guy and he does things for me all the time.

Just like I do things for him. We’re partners in every sense of the word.

As I sit here at my desk with a happy full tummy (thanks Hubby) I scroll through my news feeds and daily headlines and notice so much negativity about men, men in positions of power, and men in politics doing absolutely horrible things or being accused of atrocious behavior (toward women mostly) and I think to myself, wow… *I need a good cry now* but then I remember that

~ There are more good guys on this planet than there aren’t. ~

With all the negativity floating around in the media and social media about men I choose to focus on the positive because

I believe women and men are equals. We’re not the same in some respects (obviously – his anatomy is different *cough* penis *cough-cough*) but…

Hubs and I choose to be together. Because we’re better together.

Life is about balance.  – Balance is actually one of the universal laws – and that translates to

Male~Female * Yin~Yang * Positive~Negative * Up~down * Chocolate~Salad

Let me add in here that I am NO WAY saying there isn’t a problem with our male dominated society. There are a ton of problems—and there isn’t a good balance between women and men in our current modern civilization. But does Man Shaming really help anything? And… If the tides were turned and all the headlines were focused on terrible women doing and saying terrible things, I would still write these same thoughts and say: There are more good women on this planet than there aren’t.

So for today, I remind myself of this:

“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi

What does that even mean?

Well… energetically speaking:

If you focus on the negative all the time, then that becomes your reality. Your energy will attract similar energies.

So I ask myself: Are my thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors helping make the changes I want to see in my world?

Am I focusing on too many negatives and forgetting all the positivity and love in my life? Because if I’m being a sourpus, negative, grumpy crab cake more often then I’m not, then I’ve officially become part of the problem…. (Like energies attract, remember?)

Umm…

That’s now how I want to live.

But I can’t just live with my head in the sand (all the time) – hmm – or can I?  I’ve unplugged and distanced myself from all the negativity around me many times. It actually does me a lot of good, but I eventually get sucked back into the frenzied mess we call modern life.

And being in an acidic headspace is emotionally draining and depressing. And guess what?  If I’m emotionally drained and depressed then I will attract more of that energy to myself.

– Which has dire consequences on my physical well-being. Because…. in case you didn’t know or have forgotten.  The mind~body~soul are one. They are not separate parts of a whole. We are whole beings not hole beings.

There is no separation between mind and body. <– If you’ve never heard that before, put it on repeat inside your head until the truth of it sinks in. –> There is no separation between mind and body.

So please take care of yourself on all levels. Mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, and intuitive. Do it for yourself and do it for the higher good of all.

Changing the world means SHIFTING YOUR PERCEPTION (aka transmutation.)  It’s that easy and that hard. (Sometimes it is SO hard. Ugh.)

Now it’s your turn. Get a burrito from a friend or loved one, then give one.

aka – find your healthy balance. 🙂

This has been your not quite so serious and somewhat silly blog post.

Thanks for being here. I appreciate all my readers.

Feel free to agree or disagree in the comments below.

Cheers & happy reading,

Jody A Kessler

In case you didn’t know, I am not only an author, but a long time yoga teacher. However, philosophies, beliefs, and strange opinions are my own.

I also change my mind quite often (a basic right of being a female or human) so check back here for more caffeine-fueled future ramblings.

You can find my really long ramblings in the form of novels on Amazon. 😉

p.s.

new Granite Lake Romance coming soon! 

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99 Books for 99 Pennies – Plus NEWS & More!

Welcome to September & Thanks for being here!

It’s been a little while since I posted anything new. Summer is a busy time filled with a lot of reading and spending time with my family. However, I somehow managed to finish writing the new Granite Lake Romance!

Although, (sad news) I do not have a definite release date and I am waiting on the cover art. So, the book is done, but there is a long list of steps ahead to get Detecting Autumn published and in front of your lovely eyes.

In case you haven’t started reading the Granite Lake Romance series, you can download a copy of book one – Unwrapping Treasure – for 99 pennies today. AND >>> you can also enter to win some wonderful prizes and gift cards by hopping on over to Bookwrapt. ~~> Please be aware that Unwrapping Treasure is novella length with a nice happy-for-now ending. Genre: Steamy Contemporary Romance

A September Special for you – 99 Books @ 99 Cents Book Fair.

The book sale and giveaways are located at BookWrapt – CLICK HERE 

September 6 – 12th.

There are some wonderful books by some of my favorite authors for less than a dollar. I hope you will stop by and find some fantastic new books to read.

I will have a release date for Detecting Autumn – Granite Lake Romance – book 5 soon and hopefully a new book cover to share with you as well.

Happy reading,

Jody A. Kessler

P.S.

If you signed up to receive blog posts – thank you very much! – but if you were looking for my free novella – The Call (An Angel Falls)  – and you did not receive it, it is because you need to sign up for the newsletter. – I have both.  HOWEVER – the content between the blog and newsletters are very similar. Newsletter subscribers receive the free copy of The Call and special offers such as joining my Advance Reader Team.

I’m so grateful for each and every one of you. You’re welcome to join my blog and my newsletter or come and go as you please.

I can also save you some time if you missed the freebie and would like to read it. Here is the link to the FREE copy of The Call – An Angel Falls novella 

Genre: Paranormal with ghost hunting – this is a spin off from the An Angel Falls series.

Cheers. Have a great day!   ^_^

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Crystal Casters ~ New Release from Jenn Nixon

I’d like to welcome my friend and fellow author, Jenn Nixon. She’s celebrating her brand new release, Crystal Casters – Awakenings.

Let’s find out more about this SciFi Parnormal Romance ~

About the book

When Cyndra Raine inherits her grandmother’s crystal, she inadvertently awakens a lethal elemental force she doesn’t understand. Panicked and desperate, she flees the safety of her village, determined to find answers only to run into a man named Rune with the same abilities and questions.

Zorin has spent twenty-five years soaring over his island waiting for something, anything, to change. After sensing caster power he can’t ignore, he leaves the island and finds two casters under attack on the mainland. He’s shocked to learn Cyndra and Rune are ignorant of their lineage and the war that destroyed the world.

Intrigued by Cyndra and the immense power she possesses, Zorin promises her the truth about the past in exchange for her help. Inexplicably drawn to the winged man, Cyndra agrees to his terms and together they begin a journey that tests everything she knows about her world and discovers a connection to Zorin more profound than any she’s ever imagined.

Release day – June 28th

Available on Amazon

Read a short excerpt from the novel:

Zorin felt fingers on his wing and spun around, clasping the man’s wrist, stunned at the alarm on his face. “You see me?”

The man nodded and glanced back at the woman, who mimicked the gesture.

This caster was as stronger as the woman and his power flooded the gap between them. Using every measure of control he had not to absorb it, Zorin grunted, shoved the man backward, and tucked his wings close to his shoulders. Shocked and grateful they had the ability to see him, yet curious what they actually saw, Zorin opened the mental crystal bond and frowned as the word crossed the man’s mind.

“I’m not a gargoyle,” Zorin spat, huffing and clenching his jaw to calm down so he wouldn’t scare them further. The wide-eyed woman, dressed like a true survivor, held a lonely sai in her shaking hand, determined to protect herself. A quality he admired. He met her eyes. “Where did the wraiths come from?”

“The, uh, crazy lady,” she began, glancing over toward the bushes and furrowing her brow. “They were right there.” ….

About the Author

Jenn Nixon’s love of writing started the year she received her first diary and Nancy Drew novel. Throughout her teenage years, she kept a diary of her personal thoughts and feelings but graduated from Nancy Drew to other mystery suspense novels. Jenn often adds a thriller and suspense element to anything she writes be it Romance, Science Fiction, or Fantasy. When not writing, she spends her time reading, observing pop culture, playing with her two dogs, and working on various charitable projects in her home state of New Jersey.

You can find Jenn Nixon all over the interwebs:

Website: www.jennnixon.com

Facebook: facebook.com/JennNixonAuthor

Newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/l8m1g3

http://twitter.com/jennnixon

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/712429.Jenn_Nixon

http://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Nixon/e/B002BLNBBQ/

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Thanks for stopping by! I hope you’re reading some fantastic novels and having a wonderful summer.

Cheers and happy reading,

Jody

“The Guide says there is an art to flying”, said Ford, “or rather a knack. The knack lies in learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.”  ― Douglas Adams

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New Release – Divining Elise + New Giveaways!

Hello from Colorado,

I have some fantastic news to share with you + book deals and new giveaways.

Divining Elise – the new Granite Lake Romance is available on Amazon!

Early readers are leaving positive reviews about the new book and the Everett brothers are winning the hearts of the readers. I hope you’ll give Divining Elise a chance and let me know what you think of Rob and Elise.

About the Book 

Elise Martinez wished her date with destiny didn’t include being run off the road by the most caring, handsome, and intelligent man she’d ever met.

Moving to Granite Lake to manage a bookstore and coffee shop meant Elise could finally leave her haunted past behind, but being a psychic mom to a deaf child has its benefits and downfalls—and her guarded heart isn’t ready for a new romance.

Rob Everett never imagined giving up corporate law to open a brewery with his brothers in Granite Lake would begin with a car accident and the arrival of a surprise baby.

As if being a single dad and starting a new business weren’t challenging enough, Rob can’t get the beautiful, mysterious, and feisty bookstore manager out of his mind.

Elise quickly captures Rob’s heart—but falling in love is a complicated, sexy, and emotional enterprise.

Mix in a baby, a haunted brewery, craft beer, and a dangerous ex-husband into this recipe of love and Rob and Elise’s future isn’t as easily divined as the fates would have foretold.

**Steamy Contemporary Romance intended for 18+ for mature language and sexual content.

**Full length novel with a happily ever after.

Available on: Amazon

Included in Kindle Unlimited ~ Paperback coming soon.

Read a short excerpt from the novel:

Elise rose from the couch and disappeared from the room. When she returned, she handed a paperback book to Rob.

“I bought this for you.”

He looked at the cover front and back. “I haven’t read this author.”

“He’s one of my favorite sci-fi authors of all time. The new book in the series came out yesterday.” She held up another book for Rob to see. “If you like it then I’ll bring you number two when you’re ready.”

“Are we having a reading date, Elise?”

“Is it too nerdy for you?”

“No. I’ve just never read with someone before,” he said.

“Well then you’re really missing out.”

“I guess I’ve been missing out on a lot of good things. I’ve never had homemade chimichangas or been whupped at the Memory game by a munchkin, either.”

“We’re pretty awesome like that.” Elise sat on the couch next to her son, Colton, who was already fast asleep. “Don’t tell anyone. I don’t want the word to get around about us.”

“I wouldn’t let this secret out. It’s too good to share.”

One eyebrow rose and she opened her book. Rob likewise began reading and to his surprise, he was instantly sucked into the story. After the first few chapters, he realized Maisie needed her nighttime bottle. He set the book on the coffee table to take care of his daughter. The sci-fi author was good. Really good. He could have kept turning pages for hours if he didn’t have responsibilities to take care of. After putting the baby in bed, he lifted Colton from the couch and carried him to the guest room. Elise took care of Colton, then joined him in the living room. The novels were forgotten and all Rob could focus on was Elise.

She took his hand and led him to his bedroom. Sixty-nine became Rob’s new favorite number. Elise was insatiable. Rob couldn’t believe how incredible their chemistry was. There was no ebb to their flow. He only wanted more of her.

Divining Elise is book 4 in the Granite Lake Romance series

~*~*~*~

Cheers and happy reading!

Jody A. Kessler

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Mother’s Day Bliss, Dog Puke, and Plastic – What?

It’s been an amazing week. A near perfect week. I am so grateful for this day and every day. My husband made me French toast for breakfast and cleaned the kitchen. He told me, “Happy Mother’s Day” and bought me some small gifts that I really wanted. In truth, I ordered the presents for myself — but I’m totally okay with this, as they were something I wanted to try out. (I’ll get to this part of my Mother’s Day post in a minute.)

It’s Sunday and hubs has been spending nearly every free minute of his time with me and my son since he returned a couple days ago from a week-long road trip. He didn’t remember Mother’s Day until yesterday evening. He was actually shocked that Mother’s Day had arrived so soon –> Of course, I casually pointed out that Mother’s Day is always near our son’s birthday EVERY YEAR. –> but you know, my hubs’s memory is questionable and we won’t get into the number of his past head injuries.

So he woke up this morning and made me breakfast and this was after taking us to lunch yesterday and out for breakfast the day before (Yes, I’m feeling fluffy around the middle — and yes, I still ate the cinnamon raisin French toast.) And when I thanked him he said, “all the other things we’ve been doing since Friday were for the kidlet and he wanted to do something just for me.” <– Sweet, right?  I love hubby. And I don’t want to go out and do anything special today. For Mother’s Day I need to be home and relax after the BUSY week.

Because sometimes happiness is relaxing at home, knowing I’m cared for, and my needs are met. I have two jobs I love and a supportive family. That is my bliss. And… I picked out an Earth friendly Mother’s Day Present for myself – which for me, is special.

Because… Mother Earth is the source of all life and without our home we’re all screwed. Royally ‘effing screwed. <– That’s the title of my next romance novel, by the way. Totally kidding.

Every plant, animal, our water, air, and soil should be respected and taken care of. This has been on my mind a lot lately and I’ve reading too many devastating stories on the health of our planet and the environment. Having the “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” mentality engrained into my brain since I was child and taking care of our Mother Earth isn’t anything new. I’ve taken steps to be a more conscious human since I was a little kid, but recently, the “single use plastics” issue has been in the forefront of my concerns.

Here’s a blog post from National Geographic for more information:  Pesky plastic: The true harm of microplastics in the oceans https://blog.nationalgeographic.org/2016/04/04/pesky-plastic-the-true-harm-of-microplastics-in-the-oceans/

I made a promise to myself: From now on, I am using less plastic.

So I ask myself again, what can I REALISTICALLY do for the planet that I’m not already doing?

Which sort of leads to the real reason I’m blogging today.

To share the Mother’s Day gift I’m excited about trying.

This is what I bought:

Organic Reusable Food Wraps by Etee    https://amzn.to/2IfPwHF

Reusable produce bags (The ones I bought are now out of stock but there’s a wide variety of them on Amazon.)  Similar to these: https://amzn.to/2Kkp7Jy

If I can make small changes in my daily routine that have less negative impact on our planet, then I’m doing SOMETHING. And all my little somethings will add up over a lifetime. What if we all made one small change every year – and taught our children to live in a similar way and continue our efforts? This could change our world for the better. 🙂

I started this post talking about my “near perfect week” and it has been fantastic, but it’s also been stressful. I don’t want anyone reading this and thinking Jody’s blogging because she leads some perfect fantasy life where all she does is sit around thinking up ways to save the planet. The truth is, I’m tired. I haven’t slept well for a week – or maybe 11 years. And after all the running around and enjoying the birthday celebrations and activities:

Last night, just after midnight I woke to the sound of my dog vomiting. I jumped – literally threw myself out of the bed – grabbed my glasses (so I could see any dog puke on the floor – and NOT step in it) to rush the dog outside before the puke hit the floor, or at least minimize the mess. And I shoved my hundred-and-twenty-pound dog out the door, turned around, and stepped right in cold dog vomit. (I was actually grateful it was on the tile and not the rug.) I limped to the bathroom trying not to dwell on the feeling of slime with hard chunks stuck to my foot and washed up in the bathtub, then returned to the hallway and cleaned up Nugget’s mess on my hands and knees. I eventually climbed back into bed and listened to my son cough and blow his nose because with all the birthday fun, he’s managed to acquire a cold. Yay. Not.

My poor kid feels like utter garbage. — Always keepin’ it real around here.

And I woke up this morning in a decent mood because somehow within the mystery of it all – the positive and happy moments and the less-than-stellar and challenging times that keep me humble – life is wonderfully complex and worth it.

And I just wanted to write this all down before I forgot. (I can’t blame past head injuries, my memory is awful.) Plus I’m excited about using less plastic and wanted to share what I found on Amazon to help me do just that – use less plastic.

Whatever you’re doing this weekend and the coming week, I hope it’s grand, or relaxing, or whatever you need it to be. Happy Mother’s Day to you, your loved ones, and our planet.

Cheers,

Jody

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Cover Reveal ~ New Granite Lake Romance + GIVEAWAY!

Would you like to see the cover art for Divining Elise ~ the new Granite Lake Romance?!

About the Book 

Elise Martinez wished her date with destiny didn’t include being run off the road by the most caring, handsome, and intelligent man she’d ever met.

Moving to Granite Lake to manage a bookstore and coffee shop meant Elise could finally leave her haunted past behind, but being a psychic mom to a deaf child has its benefits and downfalls—and her guarded heart isn’t ready for a new romance.

Rob Everett never imagined giving up corporate law to open a brewery with his brothers in Granite Lake would begin with a car accident and the arrival of a surprise baby.

As if being a single dad and starting a new business weren’t challenging enough, Rob can’t get the beautiful, mysterious, and feisty bookstore manager out of his mind.

Elise quickly captures Rob’s heart—but falling in love is a complicated, sexy, and emotional enterprise.

Mix in a baby, ghosts, craft beer, and a dangerous ex-husband into this recipe of love and Rob and Elise’s future isn’t as easily divined as the fates would have foretold.

**Steamy Contemporary Romance intended for 18+ for mature language and sexual content.

Preorder is available now: Amazon 

Release date: June 14th, 2018

This week I have a customer appreciation giveaway happening.

One lucky winner will win a $50 Sephora Gift Card. Pamper yourself with beauty products from Sephora including makeup, skincare, fragrance, nail color, haircare and more.

And I’m thrilled about the release of Reclaiming Melanie so I’m still promoting my new Granite Lake Romance. Giveaway ends May 8th, 2018.

The $50 Sephora gift card is hosted by me, Jody A. Kessler, but featured on my good friend’s website, the fabulous BookWrapt.  ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

Please read the terms and conditions on the Rafflecopter. No Purchase Necessary.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Please know that I respect your privacy and I’m committed to delivering blog posts that you want. If you are no longer interested in my blog, you can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the unsubscribe button.

The winner of The White Crate Giveaway was Debbie. She has already been contacted by the organizer. Thank you for entering the giveaways!

And thank you for being here!

Jody A. Kessler

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New Release ~ Reclaiming Melanie

Granite Lake Romance – Book 3

About the Book – 

Single mom Melanie Jamison doesn’t have time for half-naked rescues from Granite Lake by her first love, Braden Keehn — the boy who mysteriously disappeared from her life a decade earlier. Coaching, repurposing furniture, and taking care of her daughter who has severe allergies have her swamped.

But there’s one gargantuan problem with this second chance romance – the sexy alpha game warden doesn’t seem to remember her.

Special Ops Game Warden Braden Keehn’s recent drug investigation leaves him ambushed in the forest and lucky to escape alive. Helping his brother fix and flip an investment property in Granite Lake is just what the doctor ordered for a quiet recuperation.

But there’s one mammoth-sized surprise — Melanie, the girl he loved and lost, lives in the house next door… and he can’t tell her anything about why he’s returned.

Reuniting with Melanie — and falling in love again is easy — but gaining her trust and finding their happy ever after brings frustrating, steamy, and sometimes hilarious challenges Braden never saw coming.

**A steamy, fun second-chance romance.

Reclaiming Melanie is a stand-alone novel with a happy ever after.

Get it now:  Amazon & Kindle Unlimited

Other News:

I’ve been occasionally posting in my reader group on Facebook. The group was originally started for the Hunks to the Rescue box set but we’re continuing to post and share our enthusiasm for romance novels and just having fun in the book world. You’re welcome to join me: Hunks & Romance Reader Group

Divining Elise – Granite Lake Romance – book 4 – is finished but the release date has not been scheduled. However, I am currently working with the cover artist and hope to have the preorder available in the near future. Keep an eye out for a gorgeous new book cover and more details about Rob Everett and Elise’s captivating new Granite Lake Romance.

As always, thanks for stopping in and good luck in the giveaway!

Cheers and happy reading,

Jody A. Kessler

 

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Hooray! NEW RELEASE – Reclaiming Melanie – Granite Lake Romance

Hello and welcome back!

I haven’t posted anything on my blog for some time, but I’m thrilled to have you stop by. And I have great news:

I’m happy to announce my NEW RELEASE! – Reclaiming Melanie – Granite Lake Romance book 3 

What’s the new book about?

Single mom Melanie Jamison doesn’t have time for half-naked rescues from Granite Lake by her first love, Braden Keehn — the boy who mysteriously disappeared from her life a decade earlier. Coaching, repurposing furniture, and taking care of her daughter who has severe allergies have her swamped.

But there’s one gargantuan problem with this second chance romance – the sexy alpha game warden doesn’t seem to remember her.

Special Ops Game Warden Braden Keehn’s recent drug investigation leaves him ambushed in the forest and lucky to escape alive. Helping his brother fix and flip an investment property in Granite Lake is just what the doctor ordered for a quiet recuperation.

But there’s one mammoth-sized surprise — Melanie, the girl he loved and lost, lives in the house next door… and he can’t tell her anything about why he’s returned.

Reuniting with Melanie — and falling in love again is easy — but gaining her trust and finding their happy ever after brings frustrating, steamy, and sometimes hilarious challenges Braden never saw coming.

**A steamy, sexy, fun second-chance romance.

Reclaiming Melanie is a stand-alone novel with a happy ever after.

Would you like to read an excerpt?

“Excuse me?”

Melanie spun around and got slapped in the face with her past. Her jaw dropped and she was struck speechless by the man standing next to her car. Instantly self-aware of her hasty hairdo, lack of makeup, and varnish and paint-stained jeans, she found herself capable of doing, well, nothing. Deer-in-the-headlights syndrome much?

Braden Keehn smiled with a bad boy grin he didn’t possess eleven years earlier. His jeans were slung low over his hips and the abundance of ripped muscles beneath his thin cotton V-neck shirt screamed of hours spent working out in the gym. There was no subtlety or humility behind the gleam in his eye, and she somehow knew he’d checked out her package before turning around. The differences about his demeanor from when she knew him before were subtle, yet somehow glaringly obvious. She couldn’t put her finger on it. Melanie shook herself and tried to gain some composure.

“Hi there.” He stuck his hand out.

Her eyebrows rose in surprise, or shock. He doesn’t recognize me. They spent nearly a year together when they were teenagers. How could he not know her? They were each other’s first love.

“I’m your new neighbor.” He dropped his hand as she still hadn’t recovered her ability to function.

He said something else, but she missed it because Sienna’s music switched songs and blared out of the car speakers.

“Sorry. I didn’t hear you.” She gestured toward the open door. “Hold on. Let me turn this down.”

Braden Keehn bought the house next door! Braden Keehn, the boy who broke her heart so completely it sent her on the path that led to teenaged pregnancy, dropping out of college, and a marriage she may not have otherwise chosen…

*~*~*

If you would like to find out more about Reclaiming Melanie, you can click here: Amazon 

AND… if you haven’t had a chance to read Chasing Treasure, now is a great time to download a copy because for a few days only, book 2 is .99 cents.

The Granite Lake Romance series is available on Amazon.

Paperback copies are also available for Chasing Treasure and Reclaiming Melanie.

Thank you for reading! Have a wonderful day!!

Warmest regards,

Jody A. Kessler

A note to my blog subscribers: I often share a lot of the same information on my blog as the newsletter, but occasionally my newsletter subscribers receive different posts and extra giveaways. If you don’t want to miss out on any of the extras, you can join the newsletter by signing up on the sidebar widget. (Notice that one sign up says, “blog” and the other sign up says, “Newsletter.” I hope this isn’t confusing. Let me know if you have any questions. – cheers and happy reading!

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Book Reviews? – Plus A Content Warning – When We’re Entwined

So…I wrote a certain book last year.

It happened. I actually write sometimes when I’m not on facebook – (darn internet is always distracting me.)

Here’s the thing:

This particular book triggers the ever-loving crap out of people – in nearly bi-polaresque emotional latitudes. — I did not see this coming when I hit the publish button.

Here are some gems from the reviews the book has received:

***

“This story was so special. It moved me in a way a book hasn’t for a while, and I’m so glad I picked it up.”

***

“I found her character (Caspar) and also how Jasper responded to her advances to be incredibly offensive and really don’t believe that any young readers should read a book in which a diverse character is hated on and also poorly represented.”

***

“I have conflicted feelings about this book.”

***

“The girl we start out with is not the girl we end up with – and I love that.”

***

“This is a beautifully written book & a wonderful story…”

***

“What I loved about this book is the way the author used metaphors, and quotes to give a very unique aspect to this story. Loved how the author really went into how a young adult (19 year old, don’t confuse with genre) thinks, and rationalizes when they have lived in bad circumstances in life, and finding themselves with some romance without it being the main focus.”

~~~

One reviewer highly suggested I put a content/trigger warning on the book description because of the abuse scenes. (They’re not graphic, but emotional and horrible none the less.)

~~~

Have I done my job as a writer and made the reader feel something? — even if it’s bad? Did I fail miserably by not writing to market and stepping away from my other genres?

Do these mixed reviews make me question whether or not I shouldn’t have published this book in the 1st place?

Does anyone read coming-of-age edgy novels that push emotional boundaries and ask questions about life from a NA perspective?

I have my answers, but my answers are not your answers. That’s what is amazing and wonderful about fiction. Everyone perceives things in their own beautiful and unique way.

Here is my Novel Warning:

Do not read this book if you are sensitive about dysfunctional relationships and abuse scenes.

Do not read this book if you do not like coming-of-age stories.

Do not read this book if you think I have a LGBTQ agenda (I absolutely do not, btw. I couldn’t care less about the gender of the person you choose to include in your life and relationships. The fact that ONE character is bisexual does not mean I am representing a community of people. smh)

Do not read this book if you don’t like the writing style or the POV.

Do not read this book if you don’t like quotes. — there’s quotes and metaphors throughout the novel.

And you should absolutely not read this book if you can’t watch a young woman make bad choices, learn how to correct them and start her life over again.

READ this book if any of the above reviews sound like something you would enjoy!

I seriously appreciate all honest reviews! But, wow, this book in particular is making me want a pseudonym. <3

Did I write my heart in this novel? Yes, I did. Does that mean everyone will enjoy it? No, it doesn’t. Did I make an attempt to entwine wisdom, courage, creativity, unconditional love, forgiveness, passion, confusion, heartache, life lessons, entertainment, and so much more into this book? Yes, that was my goal.

When We're Entwined_Resized Ecover_Final - 620 x 930

When We’re Entwined is a gripping, emotional modern day adventure with a glimpse of alternative lifestyles in America as one vibrant, young aerial gymnast realizes cruelty and injustice can be outweighed by kindness, humor, and compassion with the help of a most unlikely and wildly colorful cast of characters.”

Wishing you all the best,

Jody

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A Witch’s Fate – New Release from Jody A. Kessler – Dark Fates Collection

Today’s spotlight author is me! Thanks for stopping by. I can’t wait for my new novel to be published!
Novel featured in the Dark Fates boxed set: A Witch’s Fate

Dark fates with Witch's cover

This is a brand new novel in the Witches of Lane County series. I hope you enjoy it as much-or MORE-than I did writing it!

A Witch’s Fate (Witches of Lane County) by Jody A. Kessler

Tori Morgan is a modern-day witch from Lane County—and she’s cursed. Falling in love is not in Tori’s astrological chart, her cards, or anywhere else in her plans for the future. Falling for a skeptic who debunks the paranormal for a living is even less likely.

Leif Andersen doesn’t believe in magic or the paranormal. When he’s hired to investigate the mysterious death of former Hollywood actress and humanitarian, Delana Smootz, Leif is led straight to Tori Morgan’s door. There’s no way he’s going to fall for Tori, or her woo-woo mysticism, no matter how magical she feels in his arms.

Sparks fly and an undeniable attraction sizzles as Tori and Leif travel the globe in search of a suspect and the answers to Delana’s supernatural downfall.

Jody A. Kessler is the winner of the Readers’ Crown Award for Best Paranormal Romance and an international bestselling author. She writes paranormal romance, historical time travel fiction, and contemporary fiction. Jody invites you to stop by her website and see what’s new at: www.JodyAKessler.com  Subscribe to the newsletter and receive a free eBook.

Jody A. Kessler online:

DF3DboxsetB 

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Amazon

Pre-order Dark Fates for just 99¢ 

and read A Witch’s Fate along with 21 more deliciously dark urban fantasy and paranormal romance novels by bestselling authors.

Amazon | B&N | Apple | Kobo

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Cover Reveal ~ Chasing Treasure ~ NEW Granite Lake Romance

It’s finally here! ~ The cover for Chasing Treasure – NEW Granite Lake Romance

ChasingTreasure_Ecover_LoRes

Chasing Treasure – Granite Lake Romance

“Exciting, steamy, romance that’s heartfelt and entertaining!” – New York Times Bestselling Author Nancy Segovia

Treasure Vogle wondered if anything else could possibly go wrong. Her job as a paramedic is on the line due to absurd sexual assault charges, and now her apartment is flooded. After spending the winter apart, Treasure can’t stop thinking about her former paramedic partner, Bodie Everett. But, with her unfortunate history of dating, and an overwhelming fear of commitment, Treasure doesn’t know how she’ll react when Bodie returns from training at Wilderness School. Or, if the irresistible and sexy, Bodie, wants to continue where they left off back in December. With nowhere else to go, Treasure heads to Granite Lake and back to her childhood home—a rundown apartment and a garage packed full of motorcycles.

Now that Bodie has new Search and Rescue certifications under his belt, he’s ready to move forward with his life. He hopes that includes a relationship with Treasure. After an unforgettable night together, he can’t seem to shake her from his head or his heart. He’s ready to take their friendship to the next level, but his intruding family members have their own agenda. Opening a brewpub with his brothers, joining the Mountain Division of Search and Rescue, and the surprise return of his ex-fiancé complicate and distract Bodie from chasing and catching Treasure.

Reserve your copy on Amazon for $2.99. The e-book will be delivered to your Kindle on April 6, 2017.

This is the follow up to Unwrapping Treasure – A Granite Lake Romance Novella, and can be read as a standalone novel.

In case you missed Unwrapping Treasure, you can find a copy at these retailers:

UnwrappingTreasure_Ebook cover_LoRes

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, iBooks, Smashwords – only $0.99 cents

Paramedics Treasure and Bodie never imagined their Christmas Eve night shift could turn into a dangerous and sexy holiday escapade that changes their lives forever.

A Special Gift For You

Unwrapping Treasure will be featured in the upcoming box set – Hunks to the Rescue (Releases in May 2017) Download a FREE printable Hunks calendar featuring Bodie Everett from the Granite Lake Romance Series. Click the image or Download HERE

calendar Feb teaser

This is a gift to you from the authors of the Hunks to the Rescue box set.

A full 15 month calendar will be available in March. But for now you can have February and a Year in Review version to enjoy with Bodie on the cover!

This calendar is designed to print on a regular home printer with 8.5″ x 11″ paper.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the new book cover! Leave a comment or message below. If you join the newsletter, you will receive sneak peeks and special offers before they’re posted anywhere else. You can subscribe on my contact page.

Happy reading,

Jody A. Kessler

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When We’re Entwined ~ New Release ~ plus $100 Gift Card Giveaway

 
August has arrived and brought with it another fantastic giveaway and some exciting book news.
*When We’re Entwined is available now.*
 And, to  help celebrate the new release,
*The Night Medicine is on sale for .99 cents.*
 When We're Entwined_Resized Ecover_Final - 620 x 930
 A new adult, coming-of-age novel.

About the novel:

“Do not judge me for where I stand today, until you know how far I’ve traveled to get here.” — J. Pyrah, When We’re Entwined

Former circus performer and aerial gymnast, Tara knows it’s time to move on. Tired of the constant abuse and the emotional rollercoaster ride at home, she takes to the road to perform on stage with her boyfriend and his band, Paradox 21.

Drunken excursions and late night after-parties lead to an unfathomable betrayal by her boyfriend, Keel. Tara never imagined her summer tour would come to an abrupt end that lands her jobless, homeless, and broke in a city far from home. Unable to reach out to her emotionally distant and unstable mother and her abusive stepfather, a knight disguised as a homeless man gives Tara new perspective. And a punk named Corban, with his gemstone inspired eyes, takes her on a spontaneous road trip that ultimately lands her a job with the traveling sideshow, The Circus of Misfit Marvels.

As Tara searches for a freedom she has never known, she documents her journey by writing her most embarrassing, profound, excruciating, and soul-searching moments in letters to her sister. Despite heartache, love and loss, Tara finds immeasurable strength and wisdom during her travels in this unforgettable adventure of self-discovery.

~*~*~*~

When We’re Entwined is a gripping, emotional modern-day adventure with a glimpse of alternative lifestyles in America as one vibrant, young aerial gymnast realizes cruelty and injustice can be outweighed by kindness, humor, and compassion with the help of a most unlikely and wildly colorful cast of characters.”

Available on Amazon (paperback coming soon.)
Do you like videos? Watch the trailer on YouTube

Thank you for your patience with When We’re Entwined. The release day was slightly delayed, but I think this novel is worth the wait! I’d love to hear your thoughts on the book, so feel free to send me a message–or leave a review or comment on Amazon or Goodreads. :-)

August Freebies, Sales, & Giveaway!

Thank you for being a loyal reader! Check out the latest deals from a fabulous selection of authors in multiple genres. For the August deals & a chance to win a Kindle eReader or  $100 Amazon Gift Card, click here:
 

 

AUGUST READER REWARDS MEGA SALE & GIVEAWAY

The Night Medicine ~ .99 cents (August 1-20th) Download a copy here: AmazonBarnes & Noble, Kobo, Apple

TNM - 3D - .99 cent sale

What would you do in 1868? Find gold, seek revenge…fall in love?
*~*~*
Travel to Blackfoot territory and visit the gold mining town of Helena, Montana in this action packed and intriguing historical time travel adventure by Readers’ Crown award-winning author, Jody A. Kessler.
~~~~~~~
 
(Please note: The August Giveaway is organized by E.B. White Books. She will pick winners and send prizes at the end of the giveaway. More details can be found on her landing page.)
 
Thanks for your continued support!
Cheers and happy reading always,
 
Jody A. Kessler

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Book News, Mega Giveaway, & Sale!

It’s been some time since I posted on the blog, but I’m back, and there is exciting news to share.

Death Lies Between Us (An Angel Falls #1) is FREE, June 1-5th on Amazon.

When We’re Entwined is a coming-of-age, new adult novel that I hope you love as much as I do. Release date: June 29, 2016.

About the book:

“Do not judge me for where I stand today, until you know how far I’ve traveled to get here.” — J. Pyrah, When We’re Entwined

Former circus performer and aerial gymnast, Tara knows it’s time to move on. Tired of the constant abuse and the emotional rollercoaster ride at home, she takes to the road to perform on stage with her boyfriend and his band, Paradox 21.

Drunken excursions and late night after-parties lead to an unfathomable betrayal by her boyfriend, Keel. Tara never imagined her summer tour would come to an abrupt end that lands her jobless, homeless, and broke in a city far from home. Unable to reach out to her emotionally distant and unstable mother and her abusive stepfather, a knight disguised as a homeless man gives Tara new perspective. And a punk named Corban, with his gemstone inspired eyes, takes her on a spontaneous road trip that ultimately lands her a job with the traveling sideshow, The Circus of Misfit Marvels.

As Tara searches for a freedom she has never known, she documents her journey by writing her most embarrassing, profound, excruciating, and soul-searching moments in letters to her sister. Despite heartache, love and loss, Tara finds immeasurable strength and wisdom during her travels in this unforgettable adventure of self-discovery.

~*~*~*~

When We’re Entwined is a gripping, emotional modern-day adventure with a glimpse of alternative lifestyles in America as one vibrant, young aerial gymnast realizes cruelty and injustice can be outweighed by kindness, humor, and compassion with the help of a most unlikely and wildly colorful cast of characters.”

Cover reveal and pre-order coming very soon!

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★•**•.★ Unwrapping Treasure ~New Release & Giveaway~ ★•**•.★

Unwrapping Treasure, book one in my new Granite Lake Romance series, is available now.

A contemporary romance novella (approx. 75 pages) and it’s also a prequel to Chasing Treasure – a full length novel coming next year. Don’t worry, this novella is a complete story.

And, I have good news for you. There’s a 3rd novel planned in the Granite Lake Romance series — but more to come on that later. Let me share a little more about Unwrapping Treasure.

UnwrappingTreasure_Ebook cover_LoRes

Paramedics Treasure and Bodie never imagined their Christmas Eve nightshift could turn into a dangerous and sexy holiday escapade that changes their lives forever.

Paramedics Treasure and Bodie arrive on scene at a routine emergency call and find an outrageous holiday party, a Christmas tree on fire, and an innocent life to save that nearly cost them their lives.

After escaping the chaos of work, they decide to spend their Christmas vacation together at a secluded lakeside cabin deep in the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. With the snow falling soft, a warm fire in the hearth, and fresh cookies baking in the oven, an innocent holiday getaway quickly turns into a night of spontaneous passion with no strings attached.

Will Treasure and Bodie’s hasty decision to spend the night tumbling between the sheets – and on the table, and the floor – prove disastrous or will their relationship develop into something neither of them saw coming?

Read An Excerpt

Treasure Vogel’s day started with the scent of him. Masculine and memorable. The smell lingered in the bed, on her pillow, and in her mind. It reminded her of the shortbread cookies and hot spiced buttered rum cider they’d shared before things had taken a turn and they ended up in bed together. Bodie shocked her with his sweetness, but even more so with his raw hunger for her – and not just because of her cookies.

The log cabin she’d rented for the holiday weekend felt like a cozy home away from home. Bodie rekindled the fire and the ambient warmth radiated across the studio-style cabin to the bed where she lay. She sighed with contentment when she smelled the coffee and glanced over to see the pot half-full on the warmer and two mugs waiting to be filled.

Treasure eased herself up and noticed her Christmas present from Bodie sitting on the nightstand next to a glass of water. Reaching over, she lifted the wrapped box and cupped it in her hands with gratitude. The small present would be the only one she would open this Christmas. Most days, it didn’t bother her that she’d woven her life around solitude and fleeting relationships, but she appreciated Bodie remembering her this year. She snuggled deeper into the pillows and pulled the comforter up to her chin. She wanted to savor the moment because she’d learned from a young age that part of the gift was the anticipation of what lay hidden inside…

Add the book to your Goodreads Shelf: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27413396-unwrapping-treasure

Or purchase for .99 cents:

*Amazon US:  http://amzn.to/1NgLb5X

*Amazon UK:  http://amzn.to/1MzEKMz

*Amazon CA:  http://amzn.to/1MzEKMJ

*Amazon AU:  http://bit.ly/1MzEL3c

Help me celebrate my new release by entering to win a $10 amazon gift card: runs Dec 3-7th
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thank you for stopping by!

As always ~

Happy reading,

Jody A Kessler

“You’ve gotta dance like there’s nobody watching,
Love like you’ll never be hurt,
Sing like there’s nobody listening,
And live like it’s heaven on earth.” ~William W. Purkey

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Book Review – Ghosts Don’t Lie – by Katie O’Sullivan

New release from Katie O’Sullivan ~ Ghosts Don’t Lie

Ghosts Don't Lie

Genre: Romantic Suspense …with ghosts — but not the spooky kind 🙂

Approx. 250 pages

Release date: 11/11/2015

I am a big fan of Ms. O’Sullivan’s novels so I jumped at the chance of receiving an ARC copy of Ghosts Don’t Lie. Here are my thoughts:

A captivating new novel.

Ghosts Don’t Lie is a mixture of drama, psychic phenomena, romance and suspense.

Jillian is the mother of three young children and married to a disreputable lawyer. From the beginning of the novel, it’s clear Jillian is in a unhappy marriage. Then Jillian finds out her great aunt has been in a car accident and is in a coma. Jillian leaves the children with her husband and rushes to New Jersey to be with her dying aunt.

Shortly thereafter, we begin to get a sense of who Jillian really is and we find out she can speak with ghosts, but hasn’t been using her psychic gifts since she was a young teenager.  Jillian’s deceased grandmother acts as her spirit guide throughout the novel and helps Jillian when she needs her–and boy does she need her.

As the story unfolds, Jillian discovers how deceitful and dishonest her husband has been in the past, she’s reacquainted with her old best friend, meets a possible new love interest, and has a mother that’s hard to wrap your mind around. With so much going on in her life, she decides she can no longer hide her ability to communicate with the dead and begins speaking openly with ghosts. She starts using her gifts to resolve multiple family issues and help her friends.

Ghosts Don’t Lie is layered with haunting deceptions and intriguing twists and turns. Some scenes tug at your heart strings while others make your pulse race. It’s a remarkable and well written novel with a fresh perspective and a cast of memorable characters. I highly recommend this one.

*~*~*

If this sounds like a novel you’d be interested in reading, here is a link to amazon

Happy reading,

Jody

“Everybody can be great…because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”
~ Martin Luther King Jr.

Happy Veteran’s Day

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Mind: The Beginning ~ New From Jenn Nixon

Welcome back, Jenn Nixon. Congratulations on your re-release of Mind: The Beginning. Let’s find out more about the book:
MIND The Beginning Jenn Nixon

After Dina Ranger loses telepathic contact with her twin brother, Duncan, she breaks into his apartment and stumbles onto a special government unit responsible for monitoring the psychic population. She’s offered a job where she can use her psionic gifts to help people.

Stranded on earth over a hundred years ago, Liam of Shria is searching for a metal needed to repair his ship when he finds Dina inside an alien escape pod and narrowly saves her after she trips the alarm.

As the mystery and their relationship deepens, Liam helps Dina learn the truth behind her abilities while uncovering a plot to rebuild an ancient weapon, exposing dangerous secrets about the alien presence on earth that may change the future forever.

Mind: the Beginning is available on Amazon

Author Bio:

Jenn Nixon’s love of writing started the year she received her first diary and Nancy Drew novel. Throughout her teenage years, she kept a diary of her personal thoughts and feelings but graduated from Nancy Drew to other mystery suspense novels.

Jenn often adds a thriller and suspense element to anything she writes be it Romance, Science Fiction, or Fantasy. When not writing, she spends her time reading, observing pop culture, playing with her two dogs, and working on various charitable projects in her home state of New Jersey.

Website: www.jennnixon.com

Facebook: facebook.com/JennNixonAuthor

Blog: www.jennafern.blogspot.com

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jennnixon

Read an Excerpt:

“I had a feeling I’d see you again,” the voice called.

Dina looked around the wooded area, feeling confused for a moment. It seemed familiar. Across the marsh, Liam was leaning against a tree, casually dressed, hair slightly less shaggy than it had been last time, hands shoved in his skinny jeans. A light mist lingered over the grass, a taste of salt in the air. How did she get here?

“What?”

“Didn’t think it would be this soon,” he replied with a shrug.

The Gut surrounded her. She didn’t remember coming here, yet she was in the Bay Hook. Solid ground beneath her feet and the stench she breathed in, all real. “Why, uh . . . did you come back?”

“The real question is why did you call me here?”

“What are you talking about? You were already here, and I didn’t call. I don’t even have your number.”

“Want it?” he asked, smirking, then shook his head. “No, wait . . . oh. Uninhibited speech, foggy backdrop, extra flirty. I get it.”

“Get what?”

“We’re dreaming. You’re asleep right?”

“No,” she spat, spreading her arms, twisting in place. She pulled a cattail-punk out of the ground and shook it at him. “We’re in the Hook, hello, don’t you see the trees? Can’t you smell the marsh?”

“You must have been thinking about me, which is normal, frankly, given the circumstances. But how the hell are you keeping me here?”

“I’m not doing anything.”

“Dina, did both your parents have psionic abilities?”

“Only my father, why?”

“Curious,” he said, moving toward her, gray eyes sweeping up and down. “What about his parents, either of them?”

“I don’t know. What does it matter?”

“People don’t normally share dreams. You’re strong—”

“Why does everyone keep saying that?” Dina threw her hands up in the air and walked away. “Who cares if I am or not? There’s some dude out there burning up people, and I don’t have time to tramp around the swamp with E.T.”

“What did you say?”

“Nothing. Doesn’t matter. I’m outta here.”

“Wait, Dina,” he said, catching up and surpassing her. He grabbed both her arms to stop her. “You really are dreaming.”

Everything around her was too real to be a dream. She felt the pressure of his fingers, even the sinking feeling of her feet on the soft ground. “So this isn’t the Gut, it’s a dream? Right, and you’re sharing it with me, sure.”

“You’re amazing!” He laughed boyishly. “Even after all you’ve seen, you’re still questioning everything.”

“Then prove it to me. Call me, here’s my number,” she said, mentally sending the digits to his head.

Liam smiled at her. A sweet, sincere smile that made her smile back before shrugging.

“Dina—”

Her eyes popped open. The ceiling of her bedroom stared back. “Oh, what the hell?”

Dina sat up, brow furrowed. She reached toward the nightstand for her phone. Was it going to ring? It had felt as if she had been there, standing in the grass with Liam. She shut her eyes, trying to bring the images back, but they were already fading.

Had she just shared a dream with Liam?

~~~

Thanks for stopping by!

Happy reading,

Jody

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★•**•.★ Haunting Me *Sale & ‪‎Giveaway‬* ★•**•.★

Haunting Me ~ An Angel Falls #3 ~ New release celebration and book tour.
Genre: NewAdult‬ Paranormal‬ ‪‎Romance‬

I hope you fall in love with the newest book in the series! So much happens in Haunting Me. The 3rd installment of An Angel Falls is an emotional roller coaster ride – my editor was in tears – and my beta reader was laughing her butt off. Those are always good signs! 🙂 Keep reading to find out more.

Haunting Me - Resized Official -Ebook - 800 x 1200

On the Back Cover:
Angel of Death, Nathaniel Evans’, newest case sends him on a perilous and magical journey to the Irish countryside in search of one unattainable answer: How does an Angel of Death fall from grace and return to life?

Back in Colorado, Juliana’s mishaps with a book of spells and her well-meaning attempts to save her brother’s life could cost her more than a ghostly haunting and a deadly virus. It could cost her everything she loves – her family, her home and her relationship with Nathaniel.

While on the hunt for answers, Nathaniel finds himself imprisoned with fairies and fighting a battle of strength, skill, wit and sorcery to win his freedom back from a ruthless fallen angel. Nathaniel must survive the duel if he wants to change his destiny and fulfill his desire for mortality and a chance to be with Juliana forever.

Enter the Giveaway for a $10 Amazon Gift Card here: Rafflecopter 

Add the book to your Goodreads Shelf

Haunting Me is on sale for a limited time ~ only ‪.99 cents‬
On Amazon       (paperback available soon)

If you would like to start with book 1, Death Lies Between Us, it’s also .99 cents for a limited time: Amazon

Read an Excerpt from the Novel

“What happened? What’s going on with Jared?”

My mom’s lip quivers as she shakes her head. “His blood pressure is so low. And he has fluid in his lungs. They think it’s hantavirus, sweetie. It came on so fast. I didn’t know he was this sick. His heart… It’s not…. It’s struggling.”

She can’t say it aloud. I don’t blame her and I’m not even sure I want to know the details. I’ve never seen my mom like this. Being shaken to your core is a wake-up call like no other.

Letting go of Mom, I move around the side of the bed and take Jared’s hand in mine. Mom takes his other one.

I give the Angel of Death, Marcus, a death glare. Only for a second. Just long enough for him to see that I know he delayed me on purpose. I’d like to drill him with a few questions about our little adventure, then slap him halfway to Pluto, but I won’t let him distract me from Jared any longer than he already has.

“Hantavirus?” I say. “Can’t you get that from mouse droppings?”

“Yes, you can,” Mom whispers.

I close my eyes and sigh, feeling defeated. Even at home, being extra super-duper careful, Jared still couldn’t escape the grip of death. “He was searching inside the garden shed. He said it was disgusting inside.”

“That was probably it,” she says. Tears leak down her face and she looks up at the doctor to see if he’s listening.

I can’t stand to see my mom crying so I stare down at my brother in the bed. “Jared?” I whisper. He doesn’t respond. He’s unconscious. I lean over and kiss his forehead. “You can wake up now, baby brother. You have too much to do, remember?” I stroke the side of his hair and give it a little tug like I used to do when I was really little and wanted his attention. “You’re not done, and I’m not done being your sister.”

The doctor murmurs to my mom, “If he doesn’t start to respond soon, we’ll try what we discussed earlier.”

Mom gives the faintest of nods and the doctor slips out of the room. The nurse moves a chair from over by the corner and places it behind me. I give her a weak smile and sit down.

Before leaving, she hugs my mom and says, “He’ll wake up, Diane. He’s young and strong.”

Jared is young, but he’s just not as strong as he used to be after his last near-death experience. I take a deep breath and close my eyes against the heaviness in the room.

“Mom,” I say as I look over at her.

She tears her gaze away from Jared’s face. Her fear is the most frightening thing I have ever seen in my life. I dig deep, pulling every ounce of determination and faith I didn’t know I had from somewhere bottomless and profound. There must be a well of strength buried inside this body. It’s a place no one ever wants to unearth and tap into. Yet, people reach this unbearable level of pain and drink from the sacred hidden depths within themselves somehow managing to accomplish all that needs to be done. Nineteen years old happens to be my time for this bitter drink of reality.

“Take my hand,” I whisper as I reach across the cotton blanket covering Jared’s body.

The three of us form a circle. There’s still no response from Jared. The hum and beep of his monitors fill the room with the eerie reminder Jared may not make it through this one.

“Jules, his life was short, but not unacknowledged.”

I ignore Marcus and center my focus only on Jared.

“There is great value in the quality of life, not the quantity.”

I release my mom and Jared’s hands and get up from the chair. Mom hardly seems to notice what I’m doing. I walk over to Marcus and stomp on his foot. Of course, I only stamp the floor, but it helps me feel better.

“I was stuck in a ditch for who knows how long while my brother was dying,” I say as calmly as I can, but it still comes out like icy needles. Needles I hope are making their points felt in Marcus’s guilty conscious.

***~***~***

I have a new novella coming out in November. Unwrapping Treasure is the first story in my Granite Lake Romance series – a new adult contemporary romance – What?! You may be asking, no paranormal? That’s correct, but this lovely little story will hopefully capture your heart with a couple of new and intriguing characters. I’ll be sharing the full description and cover art soon! So be on the lookout.

As always, thanks for stopping by and good luck in the giveaway!

Enter the Giveaway for a $10 Amazon Gift Card here: Rafflecopter 

Jody

HM sale Banner An Angel Falls

On Amazon

 


Crazy About You by Katie O’Sullivan ~ Review & New Release

I had the great pleasure of reading and reviewing an advance copy of Crazy About You from author, Katie O’Sullivan. Crazy About You is a full length contemporary romance and a brand new release – July 24, 2015. My full review is below, but first, let’s find out a little more about the novel.

“Drawn together by a dead cell phone, it’s the dead body that changes everything.”

perf5.000x8.000.inddOn the Back Cover

Climate scientist Chase Anderson races from one project to the next, unwilling to slow down in his quest to save the world’s oceans. He has no time for family or relationships until he crashes into an impetuous blonde with a quirky sense of humor. One sizzling kiss makes him seriously reevaluate his priorities. And his sanity.

Emma Maguire left her small Cape Cod hometown years ago, seeking the fast pace and anonymity of New York City. She’s not sure what she’s searching for, but when a family crisis brings her home to Provincetown she’s caught in a crazy tangle of half-truths and mistaken identity… and falls for the handsome stranger who broke her cell phone.

Will untangling the web of lies drive them crazy, or lead to something even crazier – like love?

PurchaseLinks: AMAZON | THE WILD ROSE PRESS | BARNES & NOBLE

My Review:

Sexy, Smart, Fun Summer Romance!

Crazy About You is another fantastic and well written romance novel from Katie O’Sullivan and is one of my favorite books of the year so far. In my humble opinion, this novel is probably Ms. O’Sullivan’s best work yet! (this is the 4th book I’ve read from Ms. O’Sullivan – I’m a big fan of her books in case you couldn’t tell.)

Emma and Chase have a history of past relationships that leaves them a little wary about falling in love but their attraction to one another trumps any and all misgivings. While trying to figure out their feelings for one another they become entangled in a murder investigation, an excessive amount of mafia related mayhem, and a possible environmental catastrophe.

I was rooting for Emma and Chase from page one. The main characters are full of depth and I found them extremely likeable. The setting is descriptive and charming and felt like I walked right into Cape Cod and Provincetown. The novel has quite the cast of memorable characters including Todd, Chase’s young, energetic – and often hung over intern – and Tony, Emma’s close friend and a hunky Italian New Yorker.

Crazy About You is a fun, romantic and sexy, captivating story that touches on environmental issues but also throws in some action-packed suspense that keeps the reader on edge. The writing is clear, intelligent, and sprinkled with beautiful prose – all things that I really appreciate. I couldn’t put this book down!

Ms. O’Sullivan is a talented author and this novel really stands out as a 5 star romance with a sweet happily ever after!

~ Would you like to read an excerpt from the novel? ~

A blinding smile lit her face, and she waved with enthusiasm. His heart skipped a few beats as his blood all went lower down.

She beelined to the table, calling his name. “Chase? Chase! It’s so good to see you again! Thanks so much for inviting me to lunch!”

He found himself rising to greet her for the second time inside an hour. Instead of sitting, she came to where he stood and wrapped her arms around his neck. She planted an exaggerated kiss on his cheek, like the one he’d envied Tony for the prior day, those soft red lips wet on his skin. His arms slipped around her waist and his stomach clenched hard, inappropriate thoughts racing through his head at breakneck speed, leaving him dazed. Staring down, he saw similar confusion mirrored in Emma’s eyes, as if she felt it too, that electric current running fast and furious between them at every point where their bodies connected. And she wasn’t letting go.

About the Author:  Katie_OSullivan

Katie O’Sullivan lives with her family and big dogs on Cape Cod, drinking way too much coffee and inventing new excuses not to dust. Living next to the Atlantic influences everything she writes, including her YA series about the mermaids who live near her beach. A recovering English major, she earned her degree at Colgate University and now writes romance and adventure for young adults, and something steamier for the young at heart.

Katie O’Sullivan can be found all over the interwebs:

Website: www.katie-osullivan.com Blog: http://katieosullivan.blogspot.com

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/OkatieO

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3326303.Katie_O_Sullivan

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/author/katieosullivan

*Thanks you for stopping by & happy reading!

Jody

“Every great love starts with a great story…” 
~ Nicholas Sparks

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Heart of the Secret Cover Reveal Day

Heart of the Secret is here as part of the Magical Weddings box set ~ Coming June 16th! Available for pre-order now.

Heart of the Secret Ebook - final

On the back cover

Aspen Morgan is an extraordinary, beautiful, and talented witch with the power to control animals and earth magic. She also deeply desires to marry Rook Avesbury. Unfortunately, Aspen knows that being a Morgan means she is destined to a life of solitude. The Morgans of Lane County don’t get married, they don’t explain why, and their secret always dies with them.
 
While studying the stars along the northwest coast, Rook, a handsome and charming wizard from the British Isles, falls in love with the captivating Aspen Morgan. After seven blissful months together, Rook is ready to spend forever with her.

Will the Morgan family curse be the end of Rook and Aspen, or will she find a way to reveal the deadly secrets of an enchanted journal and break the five hundred-year-old spell that is preventing their happily ever after?

Cover art by Laura Gordon at The Book Cover Machine

About the Magical Weddings box set.

MW with pre-order .99

Whether real or only in the hearts of the bride and groom, the magic of weddings is undeniable. And irresistible! As these 15 enchanting happily-ever-afters by bestselling and award-winning authors prove.

From sweet to spicy, the romances bundled into this set cross time and unite hearts, cast spells of laughter, battle wedding jitters and fight back tears, while weaving love’s hopeful magic throughout 1400 pages.

This set of enchanting romances is available for pre-order now for only $0.99 and can be delivered to your device on release day, June 16th, 2015!

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1RbM7Ze

Kobo: http://bit.ly/1SrS6us

Ibooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id997544460?mt=11&ign-mpt=uo%3D6

Google Play: http://bit.ly/1emycBp

Please join us for a cover reveal extravaganza Facebook party.Giveaways start at 1:00 pm EST on Monday, May 25th on Facebook. 

We have an even bigger party happening on release day, June 16th! I hope you will stop by and enter to win some fantastic prizes, including a $50 amazon gift card, bouquet of flowers delivered to your door, jewelry, $20, $10, $10 amazon gift cards, signed paperbacks, and much more! If Memorial Day just doesn’t fit into your schedule please join us on Facebook in June.

In other news:

I now have a YouTube channel. Check out my book trailers here: YouTube 

The Magical Weddings trailer will be ready to view by 9 p.m. est Monday, May 25th. Don’t miss it – it’s gorgeous!

Thank you for you interest in my latest works.
Grab a copy of The Night Medicine while it’s still on sale for only $0.99…and happy reading!

TNM - May sale .99Cheers,
Jody

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Darkly Delicious Definitions – Defining the Paranormal

Welcome to Defining the Paranormal with non-expert, Jody A. Kessler 😉

First let me acknowledge you, the reader. Hi! If you’re here, then I might assume one of two things about you:

1)   You’re related to me, or are a very close friend, and are somewhat interested in knowing what keeps me so busy all day, every day, for months at a time.  —In case you didn’t know, being an author is a never-ending job!

Or

2)     You’re interested in the paranormal and the supernatural world – and possibly reading about these delightful mysteries of the unknown.

As I’ve stated above, I am not an expert. However, I have a lifetime of study and personal experience dealing with the supernatural. It wasn’t unusual to find me as a young girl looking for ghosts, reading tarot cards, and playing with a pendulum for fun. (Don’t even get me started on the Ouija board experiences. Perhaps my mom was right after all when she said, “Don’t play with that evil thing!” Note to Mom – Thanks for getting rid of it for me.) Anyway, was this normal behavior for a child? I’m not sure. All I know is that I have been fascinated with the paranormal, supernatural, and metaphysical world for as long as I can remember.

How about you? Are you a believer? Or a skeptic? Perhaps you scoff at such things as spirits and angels. Well, that’s perfectly fine. We all have the right to believe whatever we want. And to be honest, I have spent many hours contemplating and questioning my reality and what is truth and what is fiction. Being an author of fiction, this line is crossed daily, but I continue my search.

So here it is – My first collection of Definitions of the Paranormal

(Please dispute me wherever you see fit – or better yet – add your definition in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you!)

Spirit vs. Soul – The soul is your eternal self. Spirit is the definition of when your soul is within the confines of your body. Hence you have an eternal soul, but you also have an internal spirit.

Angels –For thousands of years people have believed in ‘something’ or ‘someone’ watching over them and helping them in times of need or distress. Most of the time angels are there for no other reason than to be by your side. What I’ve read and learned is that there are many classifications of angels, and they have different domains. Here are a few of the more common ones: Archangels, seraphim, cherubim, guardian angels, death angels. – The definition of Angel really varies depending on who you ask.  Mostly, I like the idea of angels no matter who they really are, or what you call them. I believe they are helping, guiding, and making our universe a better place.

Aura  – In terms of parapsychology the aura is a subtle, luminous field of energy around any living thing – like a halo. I have found that many people don’t believe that auras are real. Why? I can only guess that it’s because they can’t see it. My argument is this, you can’t see the wind and yet everyone believes in it. A light bulb glows and creates an aura that we can all clearly see, and usually feel its heat, and sometimes even hear its hum. It’s easy for us to believe in the existence of a light bulb. Energy is measurable. Human beings are energy factories. We’re constantly creating heat and metabolizing our food into useable energy for our bodies to function. Now just imagine how much more energy a human body produces over that of a light bulb. Our field of energy extends beyond the skin. Just because you can’t see it with your eyes, doesn’t mean it’s not there. However, many people can see and or feel the aura. And, it’s not just body heat they are sensing. I’ve also talked to people that see the auras of animals and plants.

Ghost vs. Place Memory – Ghosts are spirits without their body. Okay, so you’re probably saying, “Wait. Isn’t that called a soul?” Yes and no. The ghost still has an attachment – usually emotional — to the body, but unfortunately, the body is dead. Hence the reason that many ghosts (but not all) will resemble their previous human form.

A place memory can also resemble human form – like ghosts – but the spirit has departed. A place memory is a strong energy signature that leaves an imprint on space. It reminds me of the quintessential ‘lady in the window’.  The story about a woman who stood at her window for forty years waiting for her lost love to return from war. To this day, a hundred years later, you can still see her standing there. — Does this story sound familiar? This is the classic version of a place memory. The lady’s spirit is gone, but she left her imprint on time and space. There are many documented cases of place memories and they are not always visual. Auditory and olfactory place memories are also common.

Incubus & Succubus – I have read documented testimonies about real encounters with these supernatural entities, and the history goes all the way back to medieval times. I don’t have personal experience with this – Thank Goodness! – but I’ll give you a brief definition from what I’ve learned. Whether they are real or not — the testimonies or the entities — I can’t say. All I know is, I truly hope I never encounter one.

Incubus – a male demon that has sexual intercourse with women – usually when they’re asleep.

Succubus – the female version of an incubus.

That’s it for now. There are many books on each of these subjects. I’ve actually read quite a few. If you’re truly interested in learning more, do your research well and only take the bits and pieces of information that feel true and right to you. Be on the lookout for Tools of the Trade – A Hands-on Approach to the Paranormal. Coming soon.

Thanks for stopping by,

Jody

(This has been reblogged from earlier this year as part of the Angel Dreams book tour, but I wanted to share it

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Exciting Things Are Happening in 2015!

Happy New Year!

Thank you for joining me in celebrating the first day of the new year. There’s so much to share with you, but let me start with the brand new cover for Death Lies Between Us. Why the new cover? This is a second edition of the novel with very minor changes and I wanted a new cover to go with it, and with the follow up novel, Angel Dreams ~ which is coming in just two short weeks on Jan. 15th!

cover reveal DLBU smoke blueI hope you love the new cover as much as I do! As for the rest of the exciting news happening in January ~ well ~ Angel Dreams, book 2, releases officially on January 15th. Pre-order for the Ebook is available right now for only $2.99  on Amazon.

Celebrating the release of a new novel is a big deal – just ask any author. I have a blog tour planned from Jan. 15-30th with a giveaway. The rafflecopter will be on my “giveaways” page at the start of the tour so please stop by and enter to win. I hope the tour and rafflecopter will be the beginning of the fun! A facebook party should be happening in the near future.

The Night Medicine, my first historical novel is still coming soon. There has been a minor delay Custom Book Cover Jody Official Ebookin its release, but I hope to have it out by February-March. If you would like to sign up for my newsletter, you’ll know exactly when it comes out as I will be sending out all the details as soon as I know.

Here’s to a wonderful, happy, and healthy 2015 and always! Happy reading and cheers to new books and my wonderful readers and friends!

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What I Write and Why I Write It… Tag, You’re It!

I’ve been tagged by Katie O’Sullivan in this blogging challenge to answer four questions about my writing and then tag four other writers to do the same. 

Katie O’Sullivan is a fellow Crescent Moon Press author and some of her titles include: Son of a Mermaid, Blood of a Mermaid, and My Kind of Crazy. I’m a huge fan of Ms. O’Sullivan’s and highly recommend her novels. (Check out Katie’s website here)

So, here it goes:

What am I working on?

Thanks for asking! My latest novel is titled, The Night Medicine. It’s a Native American time travel adventure set in 1860’s in Montana territory. As is my usual M.O. there’s a lot going on with the plot. The novel features the Blackfoot Nation, and their way of life and the cultural impact from the early mining industry in the Upper Missouri region of Montana.

Here is a partial blurb – (It’s not finished.)

Three Natives Americans time-travel from 2012 to 1868 through the practice of an ancient ceremony and with the help of a medicine pipe passed down through generations to Piegan clan member, Dean Wolfsblood. Badger, Dean’s ex-marine buddy, bribes him to take the trip into the past, but surprise awaits them as Kai accidentally falls into the adventure with them. With well meaning intentions gone with the winds of time, deceit, lies, kidnapping by Salish warriors, and facing a treacherous gold-laden mining past, the three weary travelers begin to mentally unravel and their individual secrets are slowly revealed. Can they survive history long enough to make it back, or will the past change their futures forever?

How does my writing differ from others of its genre?

I think my plots are unique. I love unexpected twists that surprise the readers. I can’t say that falling in love is untold in fiction, but falling in love with an Angel of Death (An Angel Falls series) whose only desire is to return to his former life at the risk of his eternal soul is different than what I’ve read before. My characters entertain and enlighten me daily. I hope my readers feel the same way.

Why do I write what I do?

There are few things in a lifetime that scream at you to follow through. Writing screams – no it sings – to me daily.

Joseph Campbell said this, “Follow your bliss and the universe will open doors for you where there were only walls.”

The writing door swung wide open for me and I had to enter. Paranormal comes to me naturally. The supernatural has fascinated me since I was very young. As for historical, I love it! Writing my current novel has been an excellent excuse to study about early American history and the Plains tribes.

How does my writing process work?

I need uninterrupted quiet time to let the words flow through me and onto the page.

Do I struggle to find this time?  Yes, of course. But I keep writing anyway – mostly late at night.

Writing improves my sanity on a daily basis. My family can attest to that. I write as often as I can. I read all different genres and study like I was back in college. And I edit. I go over my manuscripts multiple times before anyone can read my work. The amount of hours involved in writing is more than a full-time job, but it’s the best job I could ever have!

Do you have a passion that occupies your mind and tantalizes your soul?

If so, share it with the world. You won’t regret it! If not, keep seeking your bliss. Listen to your spirit – your inner voice that says, “This (activity) makes me smile inside.” Then do it as often as possible!

Now I tag:

Louann Carroll:   http://www.louanncarroll.com/

Jean Murray: http://jean-murray.com/

Diane J. Reed: http://www.banditsranch.com/

Alythia Brownhttp://www.alythiabrown.com/

Thank you for stopping by!

Cheers,  Jody

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11 thoughts on “Blog

  1. Thank you so much, Jody! It really means a lot to me that you included me in your list of nominees. *hugs* I *hope* to be inspiring, I probably wind up being hopelessly absurd! :c) Oh… and I *definitely* want to do an interview with you when Death Lies Between Us has its Just Released Blog Tour… you are planning one, right?

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