tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21471744246120704502024-03-14T01:18:36.853-04:00Writer, Reader, Tea Drinker, ScreamerIf I could turn down the voices in my head, I'd probably be able to hear better...Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.comBlogger215125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-48077915925747082812019-04-13T21:19:00.003-04:002019-04-13T21:19:58.590-04:00Mocha in a Fancy Glass at Cafe V-Dal<div style="text-align: center;">
It's not every day where you walk into a cafe, order a mocha and it comes out in a fancy-shmancy glass. For some reason, this is like the equivalence of getting an upgrade without asking it. Even when I go into a bar and order a whiskey shot and it's placed before me a heavy, crystal shot glass, I can't help but grin like a maniac and think,</div>
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"Now <i>this</i> is gonna go down good."</div>
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Who knew that the holder of said mocha or whiskey could make either taste <i>that</i> much better? The shot glass was cold, adding an extra bite to the whiskey. The glass for my mocha was comfortably warm while I stirred it with the spoon and I could see the milk and the coffee swirl together in a pale kaleidoscope of tasty goodness. </div>
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Now don't get the wrong idea here. <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/cafe-v-dal-lansdale-2" target="_blank">Cafe V-Dal</a> does not sell booze but their mochas, you simply have to try, Paired up with one of their oven-warm croissants and it's exactly what you need for a mid-day snack. Be sure to sit by the window too, in the afternoon because the sun simply pours in and you'll sit there, like a content cat. </div>
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You may even start purring...</div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-81771841429059862702019-01-21T19:57:00.000-05:002019-01-21T19:58:05.679-05:00New Year, New Coffee Shop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There is always something to be said about trying new things. And as we near the end of the first month of the new year (I know, I know, I'm late), it's safe to say that trying new coffee shops is something we must all aspire to. You honestly never know what to expect. Oh, sure, you know you can expect coffee...maybe some muffins...maybe a few super-cute cupcakes decorated as a Minion or Cookie Monster. And of course, the patrons on the laptops, tick-tacking away on their keyboards, ears plugged in, coffee cup at the elbow, immersed in their world while the real one goes on around them. But what can you notice when you don't, um, notice? Especially when you're in a <i>new coffee shop</i>. There's so <i>much</i> to look at! The drink menus, the trays of home-made biscotti, the cookies and that wonderful sound of grinding coffee beans and that's not even including the decor! Local artwork, little coffee-related knick-knacks like the JAVA blocks in the picture above - it's all in the atmosphere and it's important to absorb it as you sit near the window, sipping at the delicious nectar of the gods, the thing that we mortals refer to as: coffee.</div>
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So branch out from your local Starbucks and Dunkin and Wawa. Stop by a quaint little place in Limerick called <a href="https://foursquare.com/v/javas-brewin/4ac8d59af964a520c7bc20e3/menu" target="_blank">Java Brewin'</a>. Believe me, you won't be disappointed. </div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-88130022734319642332018-12-24T14:53:00.000-05:002018-12-24T14:53:11.939-05:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">HAPPY HOLIDAYS, EVERYONE! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">ENJOY THE MERRIMENT, THE WONDER AND AWE! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">BE SAFE!</span></div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-86613468027702578542018-11-25T15:32:00.001-05:002018-11-25T15:32:21.115-05:00To Dream of New Orleans Beignets!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A few years ago, I had the honor and pleasure of visiting New Orleans with my friends. Upon my return to the frigid Northeast, I told myself (and many others) that if I were to EVER move to New Orleans, it would be for the food, the whole food and nothing but the food.</div>
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Because the food down there is ridiculous and so good and so.....heavenly.</div>
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Until recently, I've been unable to find a decent replication of the ever-famous beignet. Then I was bought to the <a href="http://locations.grandluxcafe.com/pa/king-of-prussia/5015/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Maps&utm_campaign=Google+Places" target="_blank">Grand Lux Cafe</a> and holy good God, my friend and I positively <i>tackled</i> this basket of scrumptious beignet goodness. From the buttery flakes to the dusting of powdered sugar to the three choices of dipping sauces, it was a feast of dynamic proportions. Coupled with a whipped-cream-slathered hot mocha, I was transported back to the mellow, easy streets of New Orleans, complete with the casual gait of both tourists and locals and jazzy music that soothed the spurs in my soul. </div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-62045254841192217522018-11-24T23:57:00.001-05:002018-11-24T23:57:43.540-05:00Happy Thanksgiving!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hope everyone had a great day of thanks, good eats and even better company! Hold it all closely. You never know when it'll be gone!</div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-10525281307405522042018-10-30T15:24:00.002-04:002018-10-30T15:24:43.735-04:00Happy Halloween!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy Halloween, peeps! May your treats be tasty, your tricks be awesome and your screams of terror be loud!</div>
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(Yup, this is a pumpkin candle holder. A bit creepy, right?)</div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-47247684602507007792018-10-11T19:54:00.000-04:002018-10-11T19:55:49.791-04:00There Is Never a Bad Time for Baked Goods<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uo-GOlDXk9w/W7_icFgW76I/AAAAAAAABN8/ZJqXPJ6Ol88GKSJdIBsSEVEGVhfr1lK1QCLcBGAs/s1600/Baked%2BGoods%2BIced%2BCoffee.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="689" data-original-width="555" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uo-GOlDXk9w/W7_icFgW76I/AAAAAAAABN8/ZJqXPJ6Ol88GKSJdIBsSEVEGVhfr1lK1QCLcBGAs/s320/Baked%2BGoods%2BIced%2BCoffee.JPG" width="257" /></a></div>
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See that glow? It's a ray of heavenly light because even God knows there's nothing more divine than a glass of iced coffee and a cupcake glazed with Oreo crumbs.</div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-8578791707370168932018-07-29T14:26:00.000-04:002018-07-29T14:26:07.862-04:00Opinions Wanted: Who Played It Better?<div style="text-align: center;">
Okay, guys, I'm curious....</div>
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Who do you think played the Mad Hatter better?</div>
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Sebastion Stan</div>
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or</div>
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Johnny Depp?</div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-64818824715245886492018-05-27T16:20:00.002-04:002018-05-27T16:33:06.205-04:00All That is Unholy with Paranormal Author DeAnna Browne....Plus a Free Short Story!<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey peeps! How goes it on this amazingly hot holiday weekend? Are the grills fired up? Is the beer cold? Is the whiskey on the rocks? Is the ice cream melting? If the answer is yes to all of these questions, then give yourself a pat on the back because you’re doing it right!</div>
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So while I wait for the burgers to cook, I am totally excited to have fellow author, DeAnna Browne, sharing some space on my blog today! It’s the perfect time to learn about new books, old books, book sales because you know and I know that the majority of people who read, right now, are at the beach.</div>
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So take a scroll on down and see what DeAnna is sharing with us today! </div>
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<b>*Scroll to the bottom for a chance to check out a FREE SHORT STORY*</b><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vJM6_EjECBg/WwsNlmOakLI/AAAAAAAABMk/xZ6kEmn-xZoDdA8CvS6VR9lCphUosQYvQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Unholy%2BSundering.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vJM6_EjECBg/WwsNlmOakLI/AAAAAAAABMk/xZ6kEmn-xZoDdA8CvS6VR9lCphUosQYvQCEwYBhgL/s320/Unholy%2BSundering.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<u><b>Synopsis</b></u>: <b>Survival isn't guaranteed...</b></div>
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<i>Years ago, dark magicians opened a dimension to another world and unleashed a new power on the earth. Governments toppled, millions died, and magicians became earth’s most feared predator. </i><br />
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<i>After rescuing her younger sister from the clutches of the coven, twenty-four-year-old Becca discovers her enemies have left an unholy gift behind−a demon bound to her sister’s soul. On the run from Ryma and his twisted coven, Becca joins forces with her best friend, Caleb, and a pyromancer who tempts her untrusting heart. </i></div>
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<i>Desperate to protect her sister and her friends, Becca finds temporary safety with a rogue faction she’s not sure she can trust. As war looms on the horizon, Becca is forced to pick sides in a game where survival isn’t guaranteed. .</i></div>
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Sound awesome? Check out the buy link here: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unholy-Sundering-Book-Rising-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B07CYRGL5Q/">Amazon</a><br />
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When asked about her writing inspirations behind her Dark Rising Series, <a href="http://www.deannabrowne.com/">DeAnna Browne</a> considered one very important questions. What would happen if evil wizards took over the world? In many magical stories, the good characters win, but what if they lose? What if Voldemort actually beat Harry Potter? (that is a truly scary thought.)<br />
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But it helped DeAnna build the platform she needed for book two, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unholy-Sundering-Book-Rising-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B07CYRGL5Q/">Unholy Sundering</a>. She told me, "I drew my inspiration from my love of water. My main character, Becca, finds a powerful rogue magician whose strength is in water, and the majority of the novel takes place sea side. Growing up in Arizona, I was in the pool every chance I could get and became a synchronized swimmer, competing all around the country. If I must pick a power or affinity with magic it would definitely be water."<br />
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To see how Becca's story begins, check out book 1 of the Dark Rising Series. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lg6wzFnvjzo/WwsQloKlDZI/AAAAAAAABM8/gPq0MBjpNtcVeH3ms3Xlz5jgQshEfX-7wCEwYBhgL/s1600/Demon%2BRising.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lg6wzFnvjzo/WwsQloKlDZI/AAAAAAAABM8/gPq0MBjpNtcVeH3ms3Xlz5jgQshEfX-7wCEwYBhgL/s320/Demon%2BRising.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<u><b>Synopsis</b></u>: <b>Some sacrifices cost more than death...</b><br />
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<i>Thirty years ago, dark magicians unleashed new power on the earth fueled by demons. Governments toppled, millions died and magicians ended up on top of the food chain.</i></div>
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<i>Twenty-four-year-old Becca survives these dangerous times by relying on her wits, her fists, and the limited goodwill of her boss, a local crime lord. When news comes of a fire back home and the family she left behind dead, she realizes her dark past has finally caught up to her.</i></div>
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<i>On the hunt for her missing sister, she must rely on Darion, a treacherous ex-boyfriend with ties to the local coven for back-up. Problem is he’s a pyromancer that can’t be trusted, especially with her heart. Becca’s forced to navigate a dangerous web of deceit and must decide what she’s willing to sacrifice to save her sister.</i></div>
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Check out the buy link here: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Demon-Rising-Dark-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B07BVYG2YJ/">Amazon</a><br />
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Here's more on DeAnna Brown:<br />
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She graduated from Arizona State University with her BS in Psychology. She finds it helps to corral those voices in her mind and put them to paper. Her debut novel, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Demon-Rising-Dark-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B07BVYG2YJ/">A Demon Rising</a>, came out in 2017 with <a href="https://blackopalbooks.com/">Black OpalBooks</a>. An avid reader and writer, she has a soft spot for science fiction and fantasy adventures with a touch of romance. Despite her love for food and traveling, she always finds her way back to Phoenix, Arizona with her husband, children, and pet dog. <br />
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Contact Links:<br />
<a href="http://www.deannabrowne.com/">Website</a><br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/DeAnna-Browne/e/B074L9BH72">Amazon</a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/deannabrownebooks/">Facebook</a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/brownebooks">Twitter</a><br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17079239.DeAnnaBrowne">Goodreads</a><br />
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/deannabrownebooks/">Instagram</a><br />
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As if these books aren't kick-ass enough, check out DeAnna's short story, free, for a limited time only!<br />
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<u><b>Synopsis</b></u>:<br />
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Joining a powerful coven comes with a stability and paycheck that Nevada has only dreamed about. But when he’s called to enlist, he finds just what it will cost him. For there’s no turning back on a bargain with a powerful wizard.<br />
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Check out the buy link here: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Evil-Etched-Gold-DeAnna-Browne-ebook/dp/B07CLFCR2S/">Amazon</a><br />
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Nothing spells W-E-E-K-E-N-D like delicious pastries! </div>
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And I know, I know, everyone's getting ready their beach bodies ready but look, the longer you deny yourself, the harder it'll get to resist when someone shoves a cupcake in your face.</div>
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Am I right or what?</div>
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So, not to be an enabler or anything but here are some of the scrumptious treats I indulged in this weekend because, honestly, I have <i>zero</i> impulse control:</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Md4VAoXybAA/WvnUNSog-OI/AAAAAAAABME/vHJOtruKojsSMUfWibk8HGiopqymOKv3ACLcBGAs/s1600/cupcakes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="622" data-original-width="1095" height="181" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Md4VAoXybAA/WvnUNSog-OI/AAAAAAAABME/vHJOtruKojsSMUfWibk8HGiopqymOKv3ACLcBGAs/s320/cupcakes.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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These cupcakes can be found at <a href="http://www.alicebakery.com/" target="_blank">Alice's Bakery and Confectionary</a>!</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zoqtxETcecA/WvnUNaKXfVI/AAAAAAAABMA/6Ed0a0eCIXUVofj-beMYaV4cl06R-_4GACLcBGAs/s1600/scone.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="373" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zoqtxETcecA/WvnUNaKXfVI/AAAAAAAABMA/6Ed0a0eCIXUVofj-beMYaV4cl06R-_4GACLcBGAs/s320/scone.JPG" width="264" /></a></div>
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And these tasty cup of tea (black tea, strawberries, orange peels and sprinkes--yay!) paired with this equally-mouth-watering scone can be enjoyed at <a href="http://the%20talking%20teacup/" target="_blank">The Talking Teacup</a>!</div>
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Let it be known that I am always on the look-out for new bakeries, coffee shops (besides Starbucks *wink*) and tea houses so if you've got one near you, leave a comment!</div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-29448181582806135942018-02-26T15:26:00.002-05:002018-02-26T15:26:42.762-05:00Writers After Dark: Lights Out Won The Chapter of Excellence Award!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So this happened.....</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qJPM_PW13pw/WpRrthesX2I/AAAAAAAABLY/DpX42kZFMuAgZjCAHCSKFKR-Jlfptr50ACLcBGAs/s1600/Writers%2BAfter%2BDark%2BAward%2B2018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="703" data-original-width="543" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qJPM_PW13pw/WpRrthesX2I/AAAAAAAABLY/DpX42kZFMuAgZjCAHCSKFKR-Jlfptr50ACLcBGAs/s400/Writers%2BAfter%2BDark%2BAward%2B2018.JPG" width="308" /></a></div>
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Honestly, I'm still in shock. I was <i>not</i> expecting to win this <i>at all</i>. When I got the email from <a href="https://writersafterdark.net/" target="_blank">Writers After Dark</a>, telling me that my first chapter from <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lights-Out-Melissa-Groeling-ebook/dp/B00H51R2AS/ref=la_B0080S7E6W_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1519676616&sr=1-3" target="_blank">Lights Out</a> had won the grand prize, I almost fell right out of my chair! It's insane, right? And truly humbling. Thank you so much, <a href="https://writersafterdark.net/" target="_blank">Writers After Dark</a>, for selecting my chapter! Check out the hyperlink to find all the winners! First chapters are more important than we realize!</div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-59708457443755317422018-02-01T18:35:00.002-05:002018-02-01T18:37:28.298-05:00New Year, New Coffee Shop<br />
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<img height="320" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DPrnEPmXkAASzmb.jpg:large" width="179" /><br />
(picture above: <a href="http://www.backyardbeans.com/" target="_blank">Backyard Beans</a> mocha and a salted caramel biscotti...so good!)</div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> Okay,
so we’re a month into the New Year. By now, I’m sure most of your resolutions
have sailed out the window but hey, no judgement here, believe me. I told myself
on December 31<sup>st</sup> that I would put this blog to good use much more
than I have in the past and here we are, currently, on the first day of
February and only <i>now</i> I’m putting a
new post up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> *sigh*<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> But that’s all right because we need
to focus on something more important than sticking to useless resolutions.
Something that we all know, love and cherish.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> <i>Coffee</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> If you’ve ever decided to expand
your coffee palette, which is, quite frankly, easier said than done when there
are fifty <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/" target="_blank">Starbucks </a>within a five-mile radius from you at all times, you can find
small coffee shops making an appearance, popping up like little mushrooms after
a rainstorm. One such place I’ve come across is right in the middle of town
called <a href="http://www.backyardbeans.com/" target="_blank">Backyard Beans</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> Sporting a minimalist lay-out that’s
both startling and welcoming, this local hole-in-the-wall is a stone’s throw
away from yup, you guessed it, <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/" target="_blank">Starbucks</a>. But come inside and you’ll feel the
quiet embraces you like an old friend. The menu is simple and so completely
unencumbered, it’ll take you a minute to realize that no, you’re not missing
anything. It takes you back to a time when things were simple, when <i>coffee</i> was a singularly easy task,
brewed hot and delicious, light and satisfying. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"> So, this year, don’t be afraid to
branch out. Coffee was invented for us to gain the courage to try new things
and you don’t have to wait till New Year’s to do it.</span><br />
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-84284723096467366202017-12-30T16:38:00.004-05:002017-12-30T16:38:48.922-05:00Happy Holidays and Adios 2017!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hope you're having a great holiday, everyone!</div>
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Cheers to the end and the beginning!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UWM_CkQkCU8/WkgHM-TnF6I/AAAAAAAABLA/gYR7LTRz_ygSSGYowhGL24VDi7IjtG-BgCLcBGAs/s1600/slippers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="794" data-original-width="641" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UWM_CkQkCU8/WkgHM-TnF6I/AAAAAAAABLA/gYR7LTRz_ygSSGYowhGL24VDi7IjtG-BgCLcBGAs/s400/slippers.JPG" width="322" /></a></div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-23871349153646500192017-11-19T16:01:00.000-05:002017-11-19T16:01:51.269-05:00Cupcakes vs Muffins: An Epic Battle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1L2Cq_BVZ_0/WhHvyLrNONI/AAAAAAAABKE/WjOPyI8GbnMk_45nS_7bXmKUZkyCkG9cQCLcBGAs/s1600/23621663_10215037948490911_5388643297427786638_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="643" data-original-width="900" height="285" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1L2Cq_BVZ_0/WhHvyLrNONI/AAAAAAAABKE/WjOPyI8GbnMk_45nS_7bXmKUZkyCkG9cQCLcBGAs/s400/23621663_10215037948490911_5388643297427786638_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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(I do not own this image. I take no credit for it.)</div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> Is
a cupcake really just a muffin beneath all that icing?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> Is a muffin really a cupcake without
all the fancy window dressing?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> Can you be pro-cupcake while being
anti-muffin? Or pro-muffin and anti-cupcake?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> Is it possible to enjoy both?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> It’s hard to know where to draw the
line, if indeed a line should be drawn at all. Cupcakes and muffins have long
since been at war with one another. One is well-regarded as an irresistible treat
to be enjoyed at any moment, day or night, while the other is simply relegated
to a certain time of the day, which is usually the a.m. with a cup of coffee or
maybe a glass of orange juice. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> There are also flavors to consider. Take
a carrot cake cupcake, most likely topped off with cream cheese icing. Carrots
are a vegetable, right? And yet, here it is, swirled into a treat that is held
in perhaps what some may consider as a higher standing than a muffin. Now let’s
take a double-chocolate, chocolate chip muffin, no icing needed. No vegetables,
either. Yet, it’s to be enjoyed in the morning and somehow is much more
decadent than a carrot cake cupcake. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> Is this fair? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> Can this justify the battle between
such delicious treats? The crumbs that are left behind? The paper sleeves
balled up and tossed away? Can this even explain the carefully-avoided fact that
cupcakes are made in <i>muffin tins</i>?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> The battle is on-going. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> Delicious, but on-going nonetheless.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-53470129221813165452017-11-15T14:06:00.000-05:002017-11-15T14:06:08.135-05:00Correct Punctuation...It Can Make a Difference<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ASsEudLb7j0/WgyPuJ6x12I/AAAAAAAABJs/jE0vYEkMdGoT_u6WGWzIvqe5riq2EoMlwCLcBGAs/s1600/23517776_1725641000780630_826299345789631644_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="750" height="392" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ASsEudLb7j0/WgyPuJ6x12I/AAAAAAAABJs/jE0vYEkMdGoT_u6WGWzIvqe5riq2EoMlwCLcBGAs/s400/23517776_1725641000780630_826299345789631644_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Correct punctuation--it can make the difference between a harsh comment and one that...well, might end up in the bedroom....</div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-61762565898884701042017-10-25T17:06:00.001-04:002017-11-05T13:24:36.456-05:00GIVEAWAY TIME! **Now Closed***<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nAHv0SBXrKg/WfD4rvLhU5I/AAAAAAAABJI/f_6zlAt5zKoFJV9JRLO2Rr1Cj1oFgdFOACLcBGAs/s1600/giveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nAHv0SBXrKg/WfD4rvLhU5I/AAAAAAAABJI/f_6zlAt5zKoFJV9JRLO2Rr1Cj1oFgdFOACLcBGAs/s1600/giveaway.jpg" /></a></div>
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Peeps!</div>
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It's GIVEAWAY TIME! </div>
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And why?</div>
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Because Halloween's coming and that means CANDY!</div>
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You all know my sweet tooth is legendary so what better way to celebrate the sweetness in the time of chills, thrills and screams?</div>
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So okay. Let's lay down some rules. Yes, rules. I know, I know, I don't like them either but sometimes they're necessary.</div>
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For this giveaway, my thriller <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lights-Out-Melissa-Groeling-ebook/dp/B00H51R2AS" target="_blank">LIGHTS OUT</a> is on sale for $0.99! YAY!</div>
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All you have to do is purchase a copy, send me your verified purchase code and be entered into a drawing for this:</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jehtk6JiKz8/WfD5UzwIWII/AAAAAAAABJQ/NgOKebZ8Vsw4bWnzcrc3F3TrdNhvn-3pACLcBGAs/s1600/Pillow%2Bfront.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="514" height="295" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jehtk6JiKz8/WfD5UzwIWII/AAAAAAAABJQ/NgOKebZ8Vsw4bWnzcrc3F3TrdNhvn-3pACLcBGAs/s320/Pillow%2Bfront.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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*squeals* </div>
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How CUTE is this thing? How can a ghost be any cuter than this? Yep, it's an adorable throw pillow <b>(dimensions are 16'' x 16'')</b> and not only that, but look at the back of it:</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JBl2v06U4mY/WfD5XH4IMjI/AAAAAAAABJU/AZZFe6XCqjgGSz8EM-iIaM7z1yTyCF38gCEwYBhgL/s1600/Pillow%2Bback.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="457" data-original-width="481" height="304" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JBl2v06U4mY/WfD5XH4IMjI/AAAAAAAABJU/AZZFe6XCqjgGSz8EM-iIaM7z1yTyCF38gCEwYBhgL/s320/Pillow%2Bback.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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*dies*</div>
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Happy ghost on the front and sad ghost on the back!</div>
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Who knew Halloween was totally capable of cuteness!</div>
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Now, I know <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lights-Out-Melissa-Groeling-ebook/dp/B00H51R2AS" target="_blank">LIGHTS OUT</a> has been out for a while now (2013 to be exact, ugh, where IS the time going?) so for those you who already have a copy, whether it be an ebook or a hard copy, send me a pic of your smiling face along with your copy of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lights-Out-Melissa-Groeling-ebook/dp/B00H51R2AS" target="_blank">LIGHTS OUT</a> (again, ebook or hard copy, doesn't matter) and you can enter to win as well!</div>
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You can send me your verified purchase codes and/or your pics on this blog post, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, wherever you can find me!<br />
Oh and did I mention a <b>$10 gift card to Starbucks</b>? No? Well, let's throw that in as well, shall we? Nothing like sipping on a hot beverage while relaxing on a ghosty pillow!</div>
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I'm going to keep this giveaway running through Halloween until November 3rd so good luck, peeps and Happy Halloween!</div>
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<img src="https://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-14238097809261516022017-09-12T14:25:00.003-04:002017-09-12T14:25:47.586-04:00Creepy Campfire Tales with Debbie Christiana<div style="text-align: center;">
So incredibly honored to be a part of <a href="http://www.debbiechristiana.com/" target="_blank">Debbie Christiana's Creepy Campfire Tales Blog</a>! </div>
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Come check out what I've conjured up around the crackling fire....see if you can go to sleep tonight after hearing this <a href="http://www.debbiechristiana.com/blog/creepy-campfire-tales-3" target="_blank">one</a>.....</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fS5QaqCGlQc/WbgmI4ROzSI/AAAAAAAABIs/taFU4BsSaF4PelQHKIHwheHf_3ve_e5zwCLcBGAs/s1600/17627-campfire-flames-pv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="958" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fS5QaqCGlQc/WbgmI4ROzSI/AAAAAAAABIs/taFU4BsSaF4PelQHKIHwheHf_3ve_e5zwCLcBGAs/s400/17627-campfire-flames-pv.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-64641041323389028252017-09-10T15:34:00.001-04:002017-09-10T15:34:23.462-04:00While Getting Coffee....<div style="text-align: center;">
This is the face I make when I run into rude people.....especially in a Starbucks. Seriously. You're in a Starbucks. You're getting a hug in a mug. <i>Why </i>are you going to be rude? What is there to be rude about? Your brain is about to get a jolt of love. Your body is going to receive the burst of affection it <i>craves</i> and you're going to be rude? </div>
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*sigh*</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YxmNUnwj3WM/WbWTQ_csKXI/AAAAAAAABHo/oIEOkJeqY10rTxfgUAn9urjoDHqozuevACLcBGAs/s1600/giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" height="223" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YxmNUnwj3WM/WbWTQ_csKXI/AAAAAAAABHo/oIEOkJeqY10rTxfgUAn9urjoDHqozuevACLcBGAs/s400/giphy.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-64810572824335005542017-05-15T14:19:00.000-04:002017-05-15T14:23:19.266-04:00Birthday Cupcake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lxSUyGKQ4Ik/WRnwSZaDXwI/AAAAAAAABHI/3bV4J9cL33EXAA0npasvIDXLB3EI_Q6HQCLcB/s1600/18358919_10213205727646535_2838932187708051644_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lxSUyGKQ4Ik/WRnwSZaDXwI/AAAAAAAABHI/3bV4J9cL33EXAA0npasvIDXLB3EI_Q6HQCLcB/s400/18358919_10213205727646535_2838932187708051644_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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One thing that's good about birthdays is the treats. And I'm not talking just any treats. But original treats. Treats made specifically for you by your awesome co-workers. The heavenly cup of cake that's above--are you looking at it, huh, are you, are you?--is lovingly called, "<i>The Larry</i>."<br />
<i>(sidebar: this recipe will not be forthcoming, for its creator is as territorial as a rabid dog.)</i></div>
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With a fluffy vanilla cake, pocked with peanut butter chips, topped with a creamy wig of peanut butter buttercream icing sprinkled with candied bacon garnish, this was truly a way to celebrate another year older. And honestly, can getting older really be that bad when you're sinking your teeth into this sweet deliciousness?<br />
Excuse me, I'm still recovering from sugar shock.....</div>
<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-31111651366155487932017-05-10T09:16:00.000-04:002017-05-10T09:16:13.961-04:00Cover Reveal for Caridad Pineiro and One Summer Night<div style="text-align: center;">
Don't judge a book by its cover.....it's easier said than done! That cover, whether it's good, bad or ugly, has a way of masking a truly amazing story. So without further ado, here's the awesome cover for <a href="http://www.caridad.com/" target="_blank">Caridad Pineiro's</a> new novel, "<a href="http://amzn.to/2krMwfE" target="_blank">One Summer Night</a>":</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4myFyVjfko/WRMPGZmu44I/AAAAAAAABGk/F7WKU_qjdAwd9yjsdC3Ac_jPwtat0olGgCLcB/s1600/thumbnail_9781492649649-300RGB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4myFyVjfko/WRMPGZmu44I/AAAAAAAABGk/F7WKU_qjdAwd9yjsdC3Ac_jPwtat0olGgCLcB/s400/thumbnail_9781492649649-300RGB.jpg" width="242" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><b>Blurb</b>:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Maggie Sinclair has tried
everything to save her family's business. Her options are dwindling, and she
needs someone who can turn things around—fast. Problem is, the only person who
can help her is trouble with a capital T. The Sinclair and Pierce families have
been feuding for nearly 30 years, but that hasn't stopped Jax Pierce from
noticing Maggie. And he likes what he sees—a lot. But getting involved would
mean risking his family, his inheritance, and above all, his heart. Can Maggie
and Jax keep their simmering attraction at bay—or will mixing business and pleasure
bring nothing but heartache?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><b>Excerpt</b>:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">With keen interest, Owen Pierce
took note of the three women as they hurried away from the
dais and into the Sinclair mansion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">“Put your eyes back in your
head, Bro. She’s nothing but trouble,” Jon warned in low tones.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Owen bit back the retort that if
anyone knew about trouble, it was his brother. Jonathan had always marched to a
different drummer and had set out on his own as a teenager to explore what he
wanted out of life. Now a successful entrepreneur, he had captured the media’s
attention with his innovative designs and daring adventures. That left Owen to
shoulder most of the burden of the family’s real estate business, as well as
deal with his father’s anger over Jonathan’s latest newsworthy escapade.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">He envied his brother’s carefree
spirit and determination, especially as Maggie Sinclair marched back onto the
patio with her friends, an angry bride, and an obviously inebriated groom. Both
the bride and groom looked far from happy as they approached the elaborate
multi-tiered wedding cake that had been wheeled out to the middle of the
makeshift dance floor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">He worried the bride might
plunge the long knife she held into her new husband, but luckily for the
newlyweds, Maggie directed the blade toward the cake.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Jon playfully elbowed him.
“Seriously, Owen. She’s not for you. Father declared the Sinclairs off-limits
ages ago. He would have a stroke if he thought the two of you were involved.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Involved with Maggie Sinclair,
Owen thought and sighed with regret.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">In a way, he’d been involved
with her forever. He’d like to chalk it all up to a sloppy, hurried, and stolen
kiss at eighteen and the allure of forbidden fruit. But since that kiss, he’d
watched her mature into a smart, beautiful woman. One who was willing to work
hard for the town and business she cared about as well as friends and family.
With every encounter, he’d grown more intrigued with the person Maggie had
become.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">But his father had come down
hard on them about mingling with the Sinclairs right after Maggie’s mother’s
death. For years, they’d been unable to come to their Sea Kiss home, and even
when they’d returned, they’d done so without their father, who refused to be so
close to the family he thought had wronged him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Not that Owen expected that Jon
would kowtow to such rules, since his brother was the kind of man who didn’t
hesitate to take what he wanted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">He arched a brow and met his
brother’s blue-eyed gaze, which glittered with a mix of undisguised challenge
and amusement. “Do you think you’re the only one entitled to a little adventure
in your life?” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Jon chuckled. “My kind of
adventure is way safer than what you may be considering.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">“Why’s that, Li’l Bro?” he
asked, appreciating the sight of Maggie in a dusty-rose gown that hugged dangerous
curves. Her chestnut-brown hair fell to her shoulders in soft waves and framed
ice-blue eyes and a sassy, sexy face that snared his attention every time he
saw her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Jonathan took a last sip of his
champagne and barely stifled another laugh. With a shake of his head, he
replied, “Because all I risk is an occasional broken bone, but that…” He
jerked his head in Maggie’s direction as she stepped back beside Connie and
Emma. “<i>That</i> will break
your heart.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><b>Behind the Scenes Tidbits for the At the Shore Series:</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><a href="http://www.caridad.com/books/at-the-shore/">http://www.caridad.com/books/at-the-shore/</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><b>Purchase Links</b>:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Amazon Kindle: <a href="http://amzn.to/2krMwfE" target="_blank"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; padding: 0in;">http://amzn.to/2krMwfE</span></a><br />
Amazon Paperback: <a href="http://amzn.to/2kYLWZV" target="_blank"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; padding: 0in;">http://amzn.to/2kYLWZV</span></a><br />
B&N: <a href="http://bit.ly/2kNuo0p" target="_blank"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; padding: 0in;">http://bit.ly/2kNuo0p</span></a><br />
iBooks: <a href="http://apple.co/2qsqdwx" target="_blank"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; padding: 0in;">http://apple.co/2qsqdwx</span></a><br />
Kobo: Coming Soon!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><b>Caridad Bio:</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Caridad Pineiro is a
transplanted Long Island girl who has fallen in love with pork roll and the
Jersey Shore, but still can’t get the hang of tomato pies. When Caridad isn’t
taking long strolls along the boardwalk to maintain her sanity and burn off
that pork roll, she’s also a NY Times and USA Today bestselling author with
over a million books sold worldwide. Caridad is passionate about writing and
helping others explore and develop their skills as writers. She is a founding
member of the Liberty States Fiction Writers and has presented workshops at the
RT Book Club Convention, Romance Writers of America National Conference as well
as various writing organizations throughout the country. You can connect with
Caridad at www.caridad.com. You can also find Caridad on:<br />
<br />
Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/caridadpineiro">https://twitter.com/caridadpineiro</a><br />
Facebook at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Caridad.Author">https://www.facebook.com/Caridad.Author</a><br />
Pinterest at <a href="http://pinterest.com/caridadpineiro/">http://pinterest.com/caridadpineiro/</a><br />
Goodreads at <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/Caridad_Pineiro">https://www.goodreads.com/Caridad_Pineiro</a><br />
<br />
Want to receive Caridad's newsletter with exclusive content just for
subscribers and special giveaways? Just visit <a href="http://bit.ly/2cbxlYw">http://bit.ly/2cbxlYw</a> to
sign up. Caridad values your privacy and will not share your e-mail or personal
information.</span><span style="color: #212121;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-26761255397663009332017-04-26T19:00:00.004-04:002017-04-26T19:02:06.439-04:00Naughty Bedtime Stories: Four You is Here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dwc6JpvlgJA/WQEkEMr0KDI/AAAAAAAABGI/OYC0egtJnQUzs9X4avBvadgzz8vjP1vpACLcB/s1600/NBS4%2Bcover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dwc6JpvlgJA/WQEkEMr0KDI/AAAAAAAABGI/OYC0egtJnQUzs9X4avBvadgzz8vjP1vpACLcB/s320/NBS4%2Bcover.jpg" width="220" /></a></div>
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I am so excited to be a part of this super-sexy anthology! For me, it was a nice break to write something light (and steamy), a huge step to the side of what I usually write. Check out who else is sharing the awesomeness between the sheets with me:</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Christine-Hughes/e/B0088YCINW/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1493247152&sr=1-2-ent" target="_blank">Christine Hughes</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Aurelia-Fray/e/B00KPD30D6/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_2" target="_blank">Aurelia Fray</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lily-Luchesi/e/B00GBFAE0E/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_3" target="_blank">Lily Luchesi</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=dp_byline_sr_ebooks_4?ie=UTF8&text=Bry+Dig&search-alias=digital-text&field-author=Bry+Dig&sort=relevancerank" target="_blank">Bry Dig</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=dp_byline_sr_ebooks_5?ie=UTF8&text=Kathryn+M.+Hearst&search-alias=digital-text&field-author=Kathryn+M.+Hearst&sort=relevancerank" target="_blank">Kathryn M. Hearst</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=dp_byline_sr_ebooks_6?ie=UTF8&text=Laurencia+Hoffman&search-alias=digital-text&field-author=Laurencia+Hoffman&sort=relevancerank" target="_blank">Laurencia Hoffman</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=dp_byline_sr_ebooks_7?ie=UTF8&text=Melissa+Groeling&search-alias=digital-text&field-author=Melissa+Groeling&sort=relevancerank" target="_blank">Me!</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=dp_byline_sr_ebooks_8?ie=UTF8&text=D.L.+Osment&search-alias=digital-text&field-author=D.L.+Osment&sort=relevancerank" target="_blank">D.L. Osment</a></div>
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Feel like sinking your fingers into something good? Take a romp in the bedroom with these sexy-as-hell stories! </div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Naughty-Bedtime-Stories-Four-You-ebook/dp/B072L1WC3Z" target="_blank">Kindle</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/1545588554" target="_blank">Paperback</a></div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-29580354473558192792017-04-05T18:36:00.003-04:002017-04-05T18:36:22.936-04:00Who Loves Starbucks' Spring Cups?<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IYeNfOL1qfw/WOVxPqqr6rI/AAAAAAAABFw/3n6fUDRiJ-siBvR4oYSOF-yZ2h4bOZP6wCLcB/s1600/C7ImH6sX4AAPejg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IYeNfOL1qfw/WOVxPqqr6rI/AAAAAAAABFw/3n6fUDRiJ-siBvR4oYSOF-yZ2h4bOZP6wCLcB/s400/C7ImH6sX4AAPejg.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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I absolutely love them!<br />
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<img src="https://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-26033446489378463172017-02-16T15:09:00.001-05:002017-02-16T15:09:31.106-05:00Happy Valentine's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, yeah, okay. I'm late. Valentine's Day was two days ago....two and you know what? I missed it because I was too busy recuperating from a sugar coma....and it was worth every bite.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nj95OiOs-ms/WKYGsGm1yWI/AAAAAAAABFQ/FU1FMWOa5fkAC46RVvTWhy39ccG2pFsPwCLcB/s1600/C4z-5g_XUAEurJ3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nj95OiOs-ms/WKYGsGm1yWI/AAAAAAAABFQ/FU1FMWOa5fkAC46RVvTWhy39ccG2pFsPwCLcB/s400/C4z-5g_XUAEurJ3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-3384234621121120042017-02-16T15:05:00.000-05:002017-02-16T15:05:02.954-05:00You Know The Feeling....Walking outside after finishing a tasty, stomach-extending meal and the air on your flushed face feels so good, so cool. As delectable as that last bite of hot apple crumble sliding down your throat. <br />
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Oh yeah. <br />
<br />
Carb Flush. <br />
<br />
That, my friends, is the rush of blood to the face after raising your head from the carb trough. It’s not easy to do, especially since we deny ourselves carbs all the time. <br />
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<i>They’re too much fat</i>, we cry. <br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>They’re too much sugar</i>, we scream. <br />
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And with a hell-bent for leather single-mindedness, they head straight for multiple areas anywhere between our knees and our necks. <br />
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As emphatic as we are about our carb-denial, when we do finally cave, it’s a rush of euphoria seldom duplicated in any other aspect of our lives. <br />
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We think, “Yes, oh, yes. This is what I’ve been missing.” <br />
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Life is short, right? <br />
<br />
So go ahead. <br />
<br />
Eat that cake. <br />
<br />
You don’t have to overdo it. <br />
<br />
But you need to taste it. <br />
<br />
Taste the rush. <br />
<br />
Feel the flush.
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2147174424612070450.post-32042927074982399682017-02-05T13:42:00.002-05:002017-02-05T13:42:40.632-05:00Dangerous, Unsettling and Sexy as Hell is Jami Gray's Upcoming Novel, "Marked by Obsession"<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
As a writer, I'm always curious about what drives <i>other</i> writers. What kinds of questions go through their minds when they're putting a plot together? What kind of characters keep them awake at night? What kinds of problems do they encounter when said characters just <i>refuse</i> to cooperate? Or better yet, what happens when they <i>do</i>?</div>
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In <a href="http://jamigray.com/" target="_blank">Jami Gray's</a> next paranormal romance suspense novel, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Marked-Obsession-PSY-IV-Jami-Gray-ebook/dp/B01N9FF8AY" target="_blank">Marked by Obsession</a>, it's chocked-full of things that will make your pulse pound and your blood roar. Read below for an excerpt of this exciting new continuation of her PSY-IV Teams series!</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-55rSFqqGZ1k/WJdu2V5F1RI/AAAAAAAABEw/kGE-MYQfO5kRcqng22v_Jvc3uDghxWQWgCLcB/s1600/jami%2Bgray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-55rSFqqGZ1k/WJdu2V5F1RI/AAAAAAAABEw/kGE-MYQfO5kRcqng22v_Jvc3uDghxWQWgCLcB/s320/jami%2Bgray.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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<b><u><i>Synopsis:</i></u></b></div>
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Wolf is a hardened solider, solid and sure of himself and
his place, and just happens to be a telepath. He deserved someone who could
keep him grounded, someone who couldn’t be manipulated. Enter Meli, who is
quite happy curling up with a book and avoiding arguments, or anything she
doesn’t want to deal with. Wolf fascinates her, but she’s lost her only family,
her brother, and his death leaves her floundering while her normally staid
world tilts on it axis. It also means she’s hesitant to reach out for the one
man who tempts her dream big. It doesn’t help that she’s managed to become the
focus of deranged stalker, who wants not just Meli, but revenge, and is willing
to go through Wolf to get it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><i><u>Excerpt:</u></i></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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A flash of something came and went in those sea-glass eyes.
“You don’t like accepting help, do you?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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"What’s that supposed to mean?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“I’m not talking in tongues, here. It means exactly what I
said.” He cocked his head, his face unreadable. “Why are you picking a fight
with me, Meli?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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His question made me pause, and I sat back. Why was I
picking a fight? Wolf and Bishop were only trying to help, and getting Rabbit
to uncover the details behind Eric’s death might give us a clue as to what
waited in the safety deposit box. Or maybe, it would just raise more questions.
And there it was, “I think I’m scared of what you’ll find.” Saying it out loud
didn’t do a darn thing to diminish the dread lodged like a weight in my gut.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Wolf leaned forward, one arm stretching across the table
until he could cover my hand fisted next to my plate. “Why?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Such a soft question to land so hard. The fears chasing
themselves in my head were so disloyal, but there was no escaping the logic.
Whatever Eric was involved in was at my front door, and there was no outrunning
it now. I raised my head and met him head on, even though the words choked me.
“During the last year, Eric changed. He was darker, harder than before, and
worried. If this is tied to him, or what was haunting him, and it killed him,
how do I fight it?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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His grip tightened. “You’re not doing it alone, angel. I
won’t let you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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The solemn depth to his words triggered another fear, even
as shame scrambled underneath. As much as I’d love to stand alone, keeping
everyone else safe, I couldn’t, I didn’t have the necessary skills to navigate
this dangerous new road. But I couldn’t bear it if this man was hurt because of
me, because of the trouble I brought. “Don’t stand in front of me, Wolf.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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His thumb brushed back and forth along my wrist, his gaze
never wavering. “I can’t walk away. I won’t, so don’t ask.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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I shook my head vehemently because I knew beyond a shadow of
a doubt I wouldn’t survive whatever was coming without him. “Beside me, stand
beside me.” It came out rough and aching.<o:p></o:p></div>
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His smile was brilliant and fierce. “That I can do.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Available in paperback or e-book at:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://jamigray.com/mbdb_series/psy-iv-teams/"><b><span style="color: blue;">jamigray.com<o:p></o:p></span></b></a></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Or anywhere books
are sold!</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"> </span><a href="https://museituppublishing.com/bookstore/index.php/our-authors/57-our-authors/authors-g/445-jami-gray" target="_blank">MuseItUpPublishing</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Jami-Gray/e/B006HU3HJI" target="_blank">Amazon</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/%22Jami%20Gray%22?Ntk=P_key_Contributor_List&Ntx=mode%20matchall" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/marked-by-obsession" target="_blank">Kobo</a></div>
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EOo4N9K33BE/WJdwIpdLJ_I/AAAAAAAABE4/V-jBBUSNVJcuPRRNIZ5vTeZq6z4gnMnpQCLcB/s1600/Jami%2Bauthor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EOo4N9K33BE/WJdwIpdLJ_I/AAAAAAAABE4/V-jBBUSNVJcuPRRNIZ5vTeZq6z4gnMnpQCLcB/s200/Jami%2Bauthor.jpg" width="147" /></a><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Jami Gray is the award winning,
multi-published author of </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">the Urban Fantasy series, The Kyn Kronicles, and
the Paranormal Romantic </span><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua", serif;">Suspense series, PSY-IV Teams. She </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua", serif;">c</span><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua", serif;">an be soothed with </span><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua", serif;">coffee and chocolate. Surrounded by Star Wars obsessed </span><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua", serif;">males and two female </span><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua", serif;">labs
moonlighting as </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua", serif;">the Fur Minxes, she escapes by playing with the voices in her
head.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Hunt her down at:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.jamigray.com/"><b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">www.jamigray.com</span></b></a><b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><a href="https://twitter.com/JamiGrayAuthor" target="_blank">Twitter </a></span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/JamiGrayUFWriter" target="_blank">Facebook </a></span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><a href="https://twitter.com/JamiGrayAuthor" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></span></b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<img src="http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/msig.png" />Melissa Groelinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08296843491879289922noreply@blogger.com2