Showing posts with label Andrea Kane. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Andrea Kane. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 27, 2019

FEATURED AUTHOR: ANDREA KANE





ABOUT THE BOOK


What would you do if your daughter was kidnapped and given only a week to live?



Lauren Pennington is celebrating her junior year abroad when life comes to a screeching halt. At Munich’s Hofbräuhaus, she engages in an innocent flirtation with a charming stranger for the length of a drink. Drink finished, Lauren leaves—only to be snatched from the streets and thrown into an unmarked van. 

Officially, Aidan Deveraux is a communications expert for one of the largest financial firms in the world. In his secret life, the former Marine heads the Zermatt Group, a covert team of military and spy agency operatives that search the data stream for troubling events in an increasingly troubled world. When his artificial intelligence system detects Lauren’s kidnapping, Aidan immediately sees the bigger picture.



Silicon Valley: Lauren’s father, Vance Pennington, is about to launch a ground-breaking technology with his company NanoUSA—a technology that the Chinese are desperate for. No sooner does Aidan arrive on Vance’s doorstep to explain the situation than the father receives a chilling text message: hand over the technology or Lauren will be "dead in a week".



In a globe-spanning chase, from the beer halls of Germany, to the tech gardens of California, to the skyscrapers of China, and finally the farmlands of Croatia, Aidan’s team cracks levels of high-tech security and complex human mystery with a dogged determination. Drawing in teammates from the Forensic Instincts team (introduced in The Girl Who Disappeared Twice), the Zermatt Group will uncover the Chinese businessmen responsible, find the traitors within NanoUSA who are helping them, and save Lauren from a brutal death.



Book Details:


Title: Dead in a Week

Author: Andrea Kane

Genre: Suspense/Thriller
Series: A Forensic Instincts/Zermatt Group thriller
, book 7

Publisher: Bonnie Meadow Publishing, LLC (March 19, 2019)

Print length: 320 pages
On tour with: Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours










INTERVIEW WITH ANDREA KANE



Q: Andrea, what’s the story behind the title of your book?
A:
For starters, Dead in a Week introduces a whole new team of international investigators: the Zermatt Group, an exciting “core-four” who work hand-in-hand with member of the Forensic Instincts team to solve a high-stakes global crime. NanoUSA is a Silicon Valley company about to release groundbreaking technology that the Chinese are desperate to get their hands on. Vance Pennington is the VP of Manufacturing there, and his teenage daughter is kidnapped in exchange for the technology—and given only 7 days to live. It’s a race to the finish with the clock ticking on Lauren Pennington’s life.

Q: Tell us about your series. Is this book a standalone, or do readers need to read the series in order?
A:
Dead in a Week is both part of my Forensic Instincts series and, at the same time, the first of the Forensic Instincts/Zermatt Group novels.  It introduces a whole new team, one that folds FI team members into the mix. The Forensic Instincts series (which consists of 7 books so far, including Dead in a Week) features a maverick investigative team that operates both inside and outside the boundaries of the law to solve difficult cases. Each team member is unique and brilliant unto themselves—from a behaviorist, to former FBI and military, to a tech-genius, to a claircognizant, to a former pickpocket, to a human scent evidence dog.  (Quite an eclectic team, wouldn’t you say?)

Q: Where’s home for you?
A:
Warren, New Jersey.

Q: What’s the most valuable thing you’ve learned?
A:
Count your blessings and take life in baby steps.

Q: What do you love about where you live?
A:
It’s private, but not secluded, and nature is everywhere.



Q: Have you been in any natural disasters?
A:
I call the one cruise we took a natural disaster since Hurricane Felix came with us. The trip was way too treacherous for the ship to have been allowed to leave port, and everyone on it was violently ill. Thankfully, there were no other casualties.

Q: What is the most daring thing you've done?
A:
Submitted my first manuscript. It was like baring my soul on paper and waiting for it to be judged.


Q: What’s one thing that you wish you knew as a teenager that you know now?
A:
That the biggest trauma in life is the one you’re going through right now.

Q: What makes you bored?

A:
People who love to hear themselves talk, but don’t have anything interesting to say.

Q: What makes you nervous?

A
: Anything that has to do with praying for good health or dealing with doctors.

Q: What makes you happy?
A:
My family.

Q: What makes you scared?
A:
The unknown and sometimes change.

Q: What makes you excited?
A:
Typing the words “The End.”

Q: Do you have another job outside of writing?
A:
My family and my writing are my loves and my jobs.

Q: How did you meet your spouse? Was it love at first sight?
A:
We met at college. It was best friendship at first sight. Love blossomed from there. To me, there’s nothing better.

Q: Would you rather be a lonely genius, or a sociable idiot?
A:
I hate being lonely, but I couldn’t tolerate being an idiot, so I guess I go for door #1!

Q: What’s one of your favorite quotes?
A:
“There are three rules to writing a novel. Unfortunately, no one knows what they are.” –W. Somerset Maugham

Q: What would your main character say about you?
A:
That I’m as much of a perfectionist as she is!

Q: What’s one pet peeve you have when you read?
A:
Hanging endings. I want to read a whole book, not one that ends by informing you that, if you want to know what happens, wait for the next book. Sequels are great, but make each one complete. Oh, and I really dislike books that are based entirely on misunderstandings. I keep wanting to shake the characters and saying, “Yoo-hoo, there was a letter explaining all this to you, but it flew out the window five minutes before you walked into the room.”

Q: What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received about your writing?
A:
That I made a difference in someone’s life, whether it was as simple as a much-needed and relished break in their routine or that something in the book or the characters helped them through a terribly difficult or traumatic time.

Q: What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever had to write?
A:
Always, always, the words “The End.” Because as much as I’m elated that I’ve completed my book, I always feel as if I should do more, add more, change more, because nothing is ever perfect—and I’m such a Type A+ perfectionist! I also hate saying good-bye to characters who have become like friends to me. That’s one of the reasons I love writing the Forensic Instincts series: I always know that when I type “The End”, the FI team will be back.

Q: What are you working on now?
A:
I’m hard at work researching and writing my next Forensic Instincts novel. As always, it’s both an overwhelming process and a labor of love.



READ AN EXCERPT FROM DEAD IN A WEEK

Munich, Germany

20 February

Tuesday, 4:00 p.m. local time

Normally, Lauren Pennington loved the sound of her combat boots clomping across the cobblestone apron. But right now, all she could think about was the growling of her empty stomach, urging her to move faster. She was oblivious to everything else—the couple on the corner sharing a passionate, open-mouthed kiss, the guy puking up his over-consumption of beer into the storm sewer grating, and the man watching her every move as he talked into his cell phone in a language that Lauren wouldn’t have recognized had she been paying attention.
She walked into Hofbräuhaus’ main hall, took a seat at one of the wooden tables, and placed her order. Minutes later, the waitress came over and brought Lauren’s food and drink. Barely uttering a perfunctory “Danke,” Lauren bit into a pretzel the size of her head and took a healthy gulp of Hofbräu.
The semester had ended, and she was entitled to some carbs and a dose of people-watching at the historic Munich brewery. Pretzels and beer were addicting, but people-watching had always fascinated her. Despite a whole winter semester of her junior year abroad studying art history at the Ludwig Maximilian University at Munich, she still enjoyed playing the tourist. Not at school, but every time she strolled the streets, studied the architecture, chatted with the locals.
Hofbräuhaus was less than a mile from campus, but the brewery’s main hall had a reputation all its own. With its old-world atmosphere of wooden tables, terra cotta floors, painted arches, and hanging lanterns, how could anyone not feel a sense of history just being within these walls?
Maybe that’s why Europe called out to her, not just here, but from a million different places. Museums. Theaters. Cathedrals. She wanted to experience them all, and then some. She’d be going home to San Francisco in July, and she hadn’t been to Paris or London or Brussels. She’d gotten a mere taste of Munich and had yet to visit Berlin.
When would she get another chance to do all that?
Not for ages. And certainly not with the sense of freedom she had as a college student, with little or no responsibilities outside her schoolwork to claim her attention. On the flip side, she felt terribly guilty. Every February, her entire family traveled to Lake Tahoe together. It was a ritual and a very big deal, since her father rarely got a day, much less a week, off as a high-powered executive. Her mother usually began making arrangements for the trip right after the holidays. In her mind, it was like a second Christmas, with the whole family reuniting and sharing time and laughter together.
This year was no different. Lauren’s brother, Andrew, and her sister, Jessica, were both taking time off from their busy careers to join their parents at Tahoe—no easy feat considering Andrew was an intellectual property attorney in Atlanta, and Jess was a corporate buyer for Neiman Marcus in Dallas. Lauren was the only holdout. Lauren. The college kid. The baby. The free spirit who always came home from Pomona College to nest, especially for family gatherings and rituals.
Her parents had been very quiet when she’d told them about her plans. Lauren knew what that silence meant. After the phone call ended, her mother would have cried that she was losing her baby, and her father would have scowled and written off her decision as college rebellion. Neither was true. But no matter how she explained it, her parents didn’t understand. They’d traveled extensively in Europe, and to them, it was no big deal. But it was Lauren’s first time here, and to her, it was like discovering a whole new world—a world she felt an instant rapport with. It was like discovering a part of her soul she’d never known existed. And she had to immerse herself in it.
She’d entertained the idea of flying to Lake Tahoe for the week and then returning to fulfill her dream. Her parents would definitely pay for that. But given the long international travel, the flight changes, the time differences, and the jet lag, Tahoe would put too much of a crimp in the many plans she had for her break between semesters. She’d had invitations from school friends who said she could stay with them during her travels—friends from Germany and so many other countries.
The world was at her feet.
No, despite how much she loved her family, she had to do things her way this time. There’d be other Februarys, other trips to Tahoe. But this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
She was still drinking her beer and lamenting her situation when a masculine voice from behind her said, “Hallo. Kann ich mitmachen?”
Turning, Lauren saw a handsome, rugged-featured guy, gazing at her with raised brows. He was asking if he could join her.
“Sind Sie allein?” he asked, glancing to her right and to her left.
“Yes, I’m alone,” she answered in German. “And, yes, please join me.”
The man came around and slid onto the bench seat. He propped his elbow on the table, signalling to the waitress that he’d have the same as the lady. The waitress nodded, hurrying off to get his refreshment.
He turned his gaze back to Lauren. “You’re American,” he noted, speaking English that was heavily accented.
“Guilty as charged,” she responded in English. “Is it that obvious?” She gave him a rueful look.
He smiled, idly playing with the gold chain around his neck. “Your German is quite good. But I picked up the American…what’s the word you use? Twang.”
Lauren had to laugh. “It’s my turn to take a stab at it, then. You’re French? Slavic? A combination of both?”
“The last.“ His smile widened. “You have a good ear, as well.”
“Your German and your English are excellent. I guess I just got lucky.”
“Speaking of getting lucky, what’s your name?” he asked.
His boldness took her aback, but she answered anyway. “Lauren. What’s yours?”
“Marko.” He held out his hand, which Lauren shook. “I’m in Munich on business. And you?”
“I’m an exchange student. I’m on break, and I’m looking forward to enjoying some time exploring Europe.”
Marko looked intrigued. “I can give you a few tips.” A mischievous glint lit his eyes. “Or I could travel with you for a few days and give you the best taste of Munich you’ll ever have.”
Lauren felt flushed. She was twenty years old. She knew very well what Marko meant by “the best taste.” She should be offended. But she couldn’t help being flattered. He was older, good-looking, and charming.
Nonetheless, she wasn’t stupid. And she wasn’t in the market for a hookup.
“Thanks, but I’m tackling this trip on my own,” she replied. “I’m meeting up with friends later, but I’m good as planned.”
“Pity.” The glint in his eyes faded with regret. “Then at least let me give you some pointers about the best sights to see and the best restaurants and places to visit.”
“That would be fantastic.” Lauren rummaged in her purse for a pen and paper. Having found them, she set her bag on the floor between them.
She spent the next twenty mesmerizing minutes listening to Marko detail the highlights of Munich and other parts of Bavaria, as she simultaneously scribbled down what he was saying.
“Thank you so much,” she said when he was finished. “This is like a guided tour.”
“Once again, I could do it in person.”
“And once again, I’m flattered, but no thank you.” Lauren signaled for her check, reaching into her bag and retrieving a twenty euro bill when the waitress approached the table. “The rest is for you,” she told her.
“I’ll take care of that,” Marko offered, stopping Lauren by catching her wrist and simultaneously fishing for his wallet. Evidently, he was still holding out hope that she would change her mind.
“That’s okay. I’ve got it.” Lauren wriggled out of his grasp, leaned forward, and completed the transaction.
“You’ve been a tremendous help,” she said to Marko as she rose. “I’m glad we met.”
This time it was she who extended her hand.
Reluctantly, he shook it. “I hope we meet again, Lauren. I’ll look for you the next time I’m in Munich.”
Still smiling, Lauren left the café and walked through the wide cobblestone apron outside. There were little tables with umbrellas scattered about, with patrons chatting and eating. Sated by the beer and pretzel, she inhaled happily, and then, walking over to the sidewalk, began what she expected to be a thoughtful stroll. Maybe she’d text her parents this time, try explaining her position without all the drama of a phone call.
She was halfway down the street when she heard a male voice call after her, “Lauren!”
She turned to see Marko hurrying in her direction. “Here.” He extended his arm, a familiar iPhone in his hand. “You left this on the table.”
“Oh, thank you.” How could she have been so careless? She protected her cell phone like a small child. “I’d be lost without that—“
As she spoke, a Mercedes van tore around the corner and came screeching up to them.
The near doors were flung open, and a stocky man jumped out, his face concealed by a black hood. Before Lauren could so much as blink, he grabbed her, yanking a burlap sack over her head and tossing her over his shoulder.
"Merr në makinë,” he said in a language Lauren didn’t understand.
By this time, Lauren had recovered enough to struggle for her freedom. Her legs flailed in the air, kicking furiously, and she pounded on the man’s back as he carried her and flung her into the back of the van.
Marko jumped in behind her, slamming the doors shut and barking out something in the same dialect as the other man—neither French nor Slavic—as the stocky barbarian held her down.
Finally finding her voice, Lauren let out a scream, which was quickly muffled by the pressure of Marko’s hand over her mouth. She could taste the wool of the sack, and she inclined her head so she could breathe through her nose.
A short-lived reprieve.
Marko fumbled around, then shoved a handkerchief under the sack, covering her nose and mouth. Lauren thrashed her head from side to side, struggling to avoid it. The odor was sickeningly sweet and citrusy.
Chloroform.
Tears burned behind her eyes. Shock waves pulsed through her body.
Oh God, she didn’t want to die.
Marko clamped his other hand on the back of her head, holding it in place while he forced the handkerchief flush against her nose and mouth, making it impossible for her to escape.
Dizziness. Nausea. Black specks. Nothing.
“Shko,” Marko ordered his accomplice, shoving him toward the driver’s seat.
The van screeched off, headed to hell.

***
Excerpt from Dead In A Week by Andrea Kane. Copyright © 2019 by Andrea Kane. Reproduced with permission from Andrea Kane. All rights reserved.





ABOUT THE AUTHOR 


Andrea Kane is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of twenty-nine novels, including fifteen psychological thrillers and fourteen historical romantic suspense titles. With her signature style, Kane creates unforgettable characters and confronts them with life-threatening danger. As a master of suspense, she weaves them into exciting, carefully-researched stories, pushing them to the edge—and keeping her readers up all night.

Kane’s first contemporary suspense thriller, Run for Your Life, became an instant New York Times bestseller. She followed with a string of bestselling psychological thrillers including No Way Out, Twisted, and Drawn in Blood.

Her latest in the highly successful Forensic Instincts series, Dead in a Week, adds the Zermatt Group into the mix—a covert team of former military and spy agency operatives. With a week to save a young woman from ruthless kidnappers, this globe-spanning chase, from the beerhalls of Germany, to the tech gardens of California, to the skyscrapers of China, and finally the farmlands of Croatia will keep readers guessing until the very end. The first showcase of Forensic Instincts’ talents came with the New York Times bestseller, The Girl Who Disappeared Twice, followed by The Line Between Here and Gone, The Stranger You Know, The Silence that Speaks, The Murder That Never Was, and A Face to Die For.
Kane’s beloved historical romantic suspense novels include My Heart’s Desire, Samantha, Echoes in the Mist, and Wishes in the Wind.
With a worldwide following of passionate readers, her books have been published in more than twenty languages. 

Kane lives in New Jersey with her husband and family. She’s an avid crossword puzzle solver and a diehard Yankees fan. Otherwise, she’s either writing or playing with her Pomeranian, Mischief, who does his best to keep her from writing.

Connect with Andrea:
Website
  |  Blog  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Goodreads

Buy the book:

Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble






 

Monday, October 24, 2016

FEATURED AUTHOR: ANDREA KANE

Samantha by Andrea Kane Tour Banner


Samantha

 by Andrea Kane 
on Tour October 2016

 

Samantha by Andrea Kane

Book Details
Genre: Historical Romance

Published by: Bonnie Meadow Publishing LLC

Publication Date: October 18, 2016

Number of Pages: 418

Series: Book 2 in "Barrett Family Series" (You won't want to miss Book 1, My Heart’s Desire, either!)

Don't Miss Your Chance to Read Samantha! You can purchase your own copy at Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, AND add it to your reading list on Goodreads!




ABOUT THE BOOK

Lady Samantha Barrett wondered if her imaginary hero would ever become real. Of course, he must be devastatingly handsome and just a bit dangerous. Now, her coach is filled with a collection of Gothic novels and her head with romantic notions as she eagerly leaves her brother’s country estate for her first London season. Still unsophisticated and too innocent by far, Samantha is ill-prepared for the hypocrisy of the ton or for the formidable stranger who crosses her path—a stranger she is sure must be the man of her dreams…



Remington Worth, the Earl of Gresham, is reputed to be anything but a hero. He is, however, intrigued by the fresh, young Lady Samantha. At sea, Remington had been a brilliant captain. To help save his country, he has accepted the Crown’s commission to become the most deadly and loyal covert agent, posing as a notorious womanizer and blackmailer. His latest mission is to investigate the mysterious disappearances of England’s prized merchant vessels. With an iron will, he will allow no one to get in his way or touch his heart—until Samantha.


INTERVIEW WITH ANDREA KANE


Andrea, what's your favorite thing about the writing process?

When the story comes together like a seamless tapestry rather than a choppy patchwork quilt, and I know in my gut that it’s just right. That, and hearing back from my readers and knowing they share my excitement and enthusiasm.

What’s the oldest thing you own and still use?
A comfy robe that I’ve had forever. It’s worn down, but it’s still my go-to robe for cozy times and to wear when I’m editing my books.

If you could only watch one television station for a year, what would it be?
During baseball season that would be the YES network, since I’m a diehard NY Yankees fan. Otherwise, I’d have to go for Netflix, since I’m watching all seven seasons of Burn Notice right now and I’m hooked!

What five things would you never want to live without?
My cell phone, my laptop, my iPad, DirecTV, and my Fitbit.

What’s your favorite fast food?
Pizza. Also any form of ice cream—sundae, shake, banana split, etc.

Where is your favorite place to visit?
Unfortunately, the refrigerator.

Love that answer! What’s your favorite/most visited Internet site?

Amazon, the various departments of the FBI, and my social media sites so I can communicate with my readers.


Do you have any hidden talents?

I’m great at word games and crossword puzzles. I’ve been known to finish the Sunday New York Times crossword—but only on occasion.


What is your favorite movie?
This is a super tough one. If I have to narrow it down to one, I’d have to say The Princess Bride.

It's one of mine too! If you had to choose a cliché about life, what would it be?
The world is round.





Read an excerpt:


In walked the man of her dreams.



Samantha stared, transfixed, as the vision stepped directly from the pages of her latest gothic romance into the noisy, smoke-filled tavern.



He had arrived... her long-awaited hero.



It mattered not that he was a total stranger to her... nor that he patronized so seedy an establishment as this... nor that he pointedly displayed an ominous-looking knife handle from the top of one muddied Hessian boot. All that mattered was his towering height, his thick black hair, his uncompromising jaw, his piercing gray eyes. And that dimple... it was just where she'd always known it would be; in his left cheek. It flashed briefly as he nodded a greeting to someone, then vanished into the taut lines of his face.



Yes, it was irrefutably he... the hero of all her fantasies.



Breathless and eager, Samantha watched as he carelessly swung off his great coat, shaking rivulets of rain from it with swift, purposeful strokes. Simultaneously, he surveyed the room, his cool gaze taking in the shoddy furnishings and seedy occupants in one enveloping glance.



He moved forward, commanding and sure, coming closer to where Sammy sat... close enough so she could see the drops of water glistening in his raven-black hair, causing the ends to curl a bit at the nape. He seemed to be looking for someone.



Instead, he found her.



Dark brows raised, not with instantaneous, adoring surrender, but with decided, disapproving surprise.



Without hesitating, Sammy flashed him a smile, drinking in his splendid, chiseled features and exciting, leashed power. He was just as she had imagined him... no, better.



Her heart tightened in her chest as he approached her.



"What despicable cad deserted you here, little one?"



"Pardon me?" Sammy blinked in confusion.



With apparent disgust, her hero scanned the room. "You needn't feel ashamed. Just tell me what unscrupulous blackguard accompanied you to such a place, then abandoned you."



"Oh, nothing like that, sir." Sammy assured him brightly. "Actually, it was I who spotted this establishment from my carriage window and chose to stop here. Given the circumstances, it seemed the best place..."



"The best place... to what?" He looked censuring now, his gray eyes chilling, stormier than the skies that heralded tonight's downpour. "Is this your idea of an evening adventure? If so, you've either lost your way or your mind! Tell me, have you looked about you? I seriously doubt that you have, else you would have bolted. And, thankfully, it seems that these low-lifes have yet to spot you as prey. Had they done so, I assure you that your elegant gown would have long since been tossed up over your foolish, beautiful head!"



Sammy sucked in her breath. This wasn't at all the way she'd envisioned their first meeting.
Following her hero's icy, pointed gaze, she surveyed the dimly lit tavern, trying to see what was upsetting him so. True, the tables were a bit shabby, even broken in spots, and the pungent smell of gin... mixed with some other, unrecognizable foul odor... permeated the room. And, she had to admit, the occupants of the tavern did need to shave... as well as to bathe. Still, they'd shown no signs of harming or even approaching her; so why was her hero hinting at violence?



"I don't know what you mean, sir," she confessed, bewildered. "Despite their rather coarse attire and unpolished manners, the gentlemen here have made no improper advances toward me. They are merely enjoying their spirits and each other's company."



The stranger gaped in utter disbelief.



"Gentlemen?" he managed. Leaning forward, he lowered his voice to a muffled hiss. "Sheltered innocent, what you see are pickpockets, highwaymen and drunks... and an occasional murderer or two." He straightened, emphatic and fierce. "This is Boydry's... as unsavory a pub as they come... not the bloody Clarendon Hotel!"



"Really?" Samantha was finding it very difficult to share the intensity of his tirade. She was too busy drowning in the hypnotic spell of his towering presence. And, after all, he was only trying to protect her... the foremost duty of a true hero.



"If such is the case, then why are you here?" she asked, half-tempted to stroke the hard, uncompromising line of his jaw. "You don't appear unsavory to me."



His dimple flickered in response. "Don't I? That is only because you don't know me."



"No... but I'd like to."



He blinked. "You'd like to..."



"Oh yes. Don't you see?" Sammy leaned forward, making an animated sweep with her hands. "It's as if Mrs. Radcliffe had penned it; a young woman alone... darkness... danger." A pause. "Of course I would have preferred a castle turret to a tavern..." she gave a philosophical shrug, "... nevertheless, you've arrived... and you're exactly as I pictured you."



"You have lost your mind," he muttered.


 



ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Andrea KaneAndrea Kane is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of twenty-seven novels, including thirteen psychological thrillers and fourteen historical romantic suspense titles.



With her signature style, Kane creates unforgettable characters and confronts them with life-threatening danger. As a master of suspense, she weaves them into exciting, carefully-researched stories, pushing them to the edge—and keeping her readers up all night.



Kane’s beloved historical romantic suspense novels include My Heart’s Desire, Samantha, The Last Duke, and Wishes in the Wind.



With a worldwide following of passionate readers, her books have been published in more than twenty languages.



Kane lives in New Jersey with her husband and family. She’s an avid crossword puzzle solver and a diehard Yankees fan. Otherwise, she’s either writing or playing with her Pomeranian, Mischief, who does his best to keep her from writing.






Connect With Ms. Kane on Facebook, Twitter, and her website.





Visit Providence Book Promotions to find more great reads!

Friday, September 30, 2016

FEATURED AUTHOR: ANDREA KANE



ABOUT THE BOOK

Lady Alexandria Cassel scorned London's frivolous social whirl, seeking adventure as a stowaway aboard a merchant ship. Drake Barrett was the vessel's powerful captain—and a cynical duke who disdained a noble's shallow life. At sea he revealed neither his origins nor his wealth, and to Alexandria he was simply a man who made her cool reserve fly with the winds… whose desire for her was as wild as the ocean they sailed.

Caught in the crossfire of war, they were shipwrecked on an idyllic island, where they tasted perfect passion . . . and tenderness. But Drake dreaded the day of their rescue—when his love would discover that the virile man she adored was at the pinnacle of the aristocracy she despised. Hardly did they suspect the base treachery that would soon threaten them . . . and the dangers each would brave to join forever their hearts and lives!




ANDREA KANE ANSWERS FIVE FIVES


5 favorite possessions
:
My laptap, my iPad, my cell phone, my Fitbit, and the ice cream in my fridge.

5 things you need in order to write:
Dead silence, a working outline, strong, well-developed characters, my writer’s muse, and a cup of coffee.

5 things about you or 5 words to describe you:
Perfectionist, soft-hearted, tenacious, determined, loving.

5 favorite foods:
Ice cream, pizza, filet mignon, chocolate fudge, seafood.

5 things you always put in your books:

Relationships, suspense, animals, red herrings, blood, sweat, and tears.



EXCERPT FROM MY HEART’S DESIRE


"WHAT DID YOU DO WITH MY CLOTHES?"

No storm could be as fierce as the one that raged in Alexandria’s flashing eyes as she faced Drake across the cabin. Her expression was murderous, her small hands clenched at her sides, her tone lethal.

Drake closed the door behind him with a firm click. “By ‘your clothes’ I presume you mean that dusty gown and shredded chemise you discarded on my cabin floor?” He leaned nonchalantly against the wall, regarding her with amusement.

Alex was too angry to be shocked at his casual mention of her undergarment. “You know damned well what clothes I mean!”

“Now, now . . . such language, my lady. I am truly shocked.”

She looked as though she might strike him.

“I demand that you return my things at once!”

His brows went up. “You demand? Careful, princess, your snobbish airs are showing. Remember, on this ship the only one who demands is me.” He crossed the room, ignoring her as if she were no more than an annoying child.

She stepped in front of him, blocking his way.

“Did you want something, my lady?” He paused, studying her livid expression. She was as transparent as glass, her anger and exasperation clearly evident on her beautiful face.

Drake grinned. “Your clothes are no longer with us.”

The color in her face deepened. “What?”

“They were torn from your adventure.”

“Liar!” she shot back. “There was no reason for you to discard them … at least not for the reason you just gave.”

Her accusing tone made him chuckle. “You are quite correct, princess. The real reason is that I cannot have you parading around in your finery. My men are already lusting after you quite openly. We wouldn’t want to further intoxicate their senses, now would we?”

“The only one on this ship who has treated me with any disrespect is you!” she retorted.

“Then be grateful that I have limited you to men’s attire. Perhaps you will be safe from my lecherous advances.”

Drake moved away, and Alex turned her back as he took off his shirt and tossed it carelessly onto the chair. Tossing his breeches next to his shirt, he put an end to her torment by climbing into his berth.

The cabin was silent. Drake could sense Alex’s presence nearby, and he knew instinctively that she was not in bed.

“Princess?”

He heard her jump. “What is it?”

He cleared his throat. “Is there some problem?”

“No . . . yes . . . ” She paused. “May I use your basin and some water to wash the dirt from my face?”

Drake smiled in the darkness. “Go right ahead. And, princess … if you can find your way around in the dark, help yourself to one of my shirts. They are clean and more than large enough to protect your modesty.”

Again, silence. Then, “Thank you, Captain.”

Her bare feet padded across the room. Drake listened to her opening the heavy chest, taking out one of his shirts, and slipping it on. Splashing sounds told him she was washing, followed by her soft footsteps as she returned to her cot. Then a thud and a cry of pain.

Drake was out of bed in an instant, moving toward the sound of her choked cry.

“Alexandria? What is it?”

“I walked into the cot,” she whimpered.

“Are you badly hurt?”

In truth she was not. It had been a sudden painful blow, yet already the pain was subsiding to a dull throb. But it was more than she could withstand after her emotionally taxing day. Hot tears filled her eyes, spilled down her cheeks. Try though she would, she could not control the sobs that shook her.

“I’m sorry,” she gasped. “I never cry … and it is not that bad a bruise . . . I just can’t . . . ” She shook her head helplessly, covering her eyes with trembling hands.

There was no forethought. Drake reacted instantly, pulling her into his arms.

“Shhh,” he soothed, pressing her head against his chest. He felt her tears drenching his bare skin, her narrow shoulders shaking. “It’s all right, sweetheart … don’t cry,” he murmured, raising her chin with his forefinger, wishing he could see her face. He stroked his other hand down her back, pressing her closer to him.

They became aware of each other at the same moment. He was totally naked. She was clad only in a thin white shirt. She needed comfort. He needed more.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Andrea Kane is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of twenty-seven novels, including thirteen psychological thrillers and fourteen historical romantic suspense titles.

With her signature style, Kane creates unforgettable characters and confronts them with life-threatening danger. As a master of suspense, she weaves them into exciting, carefully-researched stories, pushing them to the edge—and keeping her readers up all night.

Kane’s beloved historical romantic suspense novels include My Heart’s Desire, Samantha, The Last Duke, and Wishes in the Wind.

With a worldwide following of passionate readers, her books have been published in more than twenty languages.

Kane lives in New Jersey with her husband and family. She’s an avid crossword puzzle solver and a diehard Yankees fan. Otherwise, she’s either writing or playing with her Pomeranian, Mischief, who does his best to keep her from writing.

Connect with Andrea:
Website  |  
Facebook  | 
 Twitter  |  Goodreads  

Buy the book:
Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble 


Book Details
Genre: Historical Romance

Published by: Bonnie Meadow Publishing LLC

Publication Date: September 20, 2016

Number of Pages: ~ 402

Series: Book 1 in "Barrett Family Series"



Monday, May 9, 2016

FEATURED AUTHOR: ANDREA KANE

The Murder That Never Was Banner



ABOUT THE BOOK


Given the opportunity, would you assume someone else's identity and leave your old life behind? A serendipitous crossing of paths between Lisa Barnes, a down-on-her-luck job seeker, and Julie Forman, a personal trainer to an Olympic hopeful, forever changes the course of both women's lives. One winds up dead and the other finds herself a fugitive, hiding behind one lie after another as a cold-blooded killer methodically hunts her. Desperately trying to stay alive, the terrified woman enlists the help of Forensic Instincts, a rogue investigative team that clandestinely operates in the gray area between legal and illegal. Safeguarding their client's deception, Forensic Instincts digs into dangerous territory as they try to find out who's after their client and why. Meanwhile, bodies are piling up in Chicago, New Jersey, and Vermont as a megalomaniacal genius will stop at nothing to eradicate anyone who threatens the success of his medical breakthrough. With an unhinged client and a monstrous criminal enterprise as its adversary, Forensic Instincts is forced into uncharted territory to protect their client and save one of their own from becoming the next corpse. Forensic Instincts is an unorthodox, criminal investigative team that carefully navigates the fine line between legal and illegal. The team consists of a behaviorist, a former Navy SEAL, a techo-wiz, an intuitive, a pickpocket, a retired FBI agent, and a human scent evidence dog."








INTERVIEW WITH ANDREA KANE


Andrea, how did you get started writing?

I don’t think I ever officially started writing. I’ve been telling stories in my head since I was two, and acting them out with my stuffed animals since the same time. The stories were always about family and friends, and the adventures they shared. Two-year-old stories grew with me, and I began writing them down as soon as I was able. I loved keeping journals and diaries, and I entered (and actually won!) a writing contest when I was in my early teens. All this time, I was a voracious reader, and sometimes I’d find myself thinking, “I’d do this a little differently.  What if . . .?” That reaction got stronger as I became an adult and so did the books I was reading. And finally came the inevitable: “I want to try this myself. I have so many stories inside me that I want to share.” So I did. I’m very fortunate to do what I love every day, and to receive such wonderful feedback from my readers.

What's your favorite thing about the writing process?
That indescribable feeling when I get a scene just right and I feel it in my gut. It’s like my birthday and Christmas all rolled into one!

What do you think is hardest aspect of writing a book?
For me, it’s getting just the right balance of suspense and character development. I must write strong, memorable characters—characters my readers can relate to and either love or hate. On the flip side, establishing a powerful storyline with escalating suspense is what makes a great thriller. The balance is delicate, and extremely difficult to pull off. I don’t stop until I do.


What do you think makes a good story?
For the psychological suspense thrillers that I write, it starts with a great “what if?” From there, it requires characters you care about (or detest) that draw you in, whether they’re the protagonists or the antagonists. Next you need a super-compelling storyline filled with twists, turns, and believable red herrings. The goal is to take those strong characters you’ve connected with on a circuitous journey that keeps the reader glued to the pages. It’s a great recipe. But, now that I’ve shared it with you, let me conclude with the most crucial part: It’s unbearably difficult to do all this!!


What do you know now that you wish you knew then?

I wish I’d known how many creative blows (like rejection, editing, and negative reviews) comes along with this career, and how to better cope with them. This is a tough business (and, yes, despite the creative process, publishing is a business), and when you’re a sensitive person, as most writers are, it’s hard to handle the negatives. But what I’ve learned is that, while you must toughen your skin, you do grow from those negatives (some of which are positives in disguise, like editorial work), and, ultimately, they often lead to some great successes. So don’t succumb to the negative; embrace the positive. It’s a crucial part of a career in writing, and one I wish I’d known from the start.

Is writing your dream job?

Absolutely. I truly love what I do and can’t imagine doing anything else. However, let me clarify that by telling you that there are days when I wish my calling had been anything but writing. Those are the days when I stare at the blank screen and the blinking cursor and press the down arrow repeatedly in the hopes that my writing muse has come up with a great chapter overnight. Unfortunately, no such luck. So I use those frustrating days to research, edit, and sometimes reread the entire ongoing book from Page 1. Even a dream job can have a nightmare here and there.


What is the worst job you’ve ever had? What did it teach you?
My first two jobs out of college were as editorial assistants. I adored the second one. I loathed the first. At Job #2, I got to read manuscripts, give comments, and learn about the publishing industry. At Job #1, I spent my entire day proofreading the indexes of medical texts. Sounds like a blast, huh? I didn’t work there for too long, because I actually started getting bad migraines from painfully focusing on tiny medical-ese words. But what I did learn (and had no idea how much it would help me in the future) was every copyediting symbol and what it stood for. I’ve used that knowledge for over twenty-five years. To me, that means my worst job yielded some invaluable results.

If you could only watch one television station for a year, what would it be?
It would have to be the YES network so I could watch every one of the New York Yankees games. But, since baseball season only lasts half a year, I’d probably choose USA for my full-year station. I’m a huge Suits fan, and I also loved White Collar when it was on.  USA has great original shows.

How do you feel about Facebook?
Like everyone else, I have mixed feelings about Facebook. But, overall, I love interacting with my readers and Facebook provides me with the ideal medium in which to do it. Twitter is great for informational posts, but Facebook has an interactive element that’s unique and so very important to an author. I try to post daily, and I check my profile and my page twice a day, morning and night.

For what would you like to be remembered?
For making a difference in people’s lives, whether it’s the love of my family, the ties of my friendships, or the reactions of my readers who, thankfully, let me know how my novels have impacted them.

What’s one thing you never leave the house without (besides your phone).

My day planner. Much as I rely on my cell phone’s electronic calendar, I need to make notes about appointments, jot down ideas as I think of them, and write down the must-do’s like “empty the dishwasher” or “do the laundry.” Some things are just better on paper.

What’s your favorite fast food?

Pizza, pizza, pizza!


What’s your favorite beverage?
Orange Crush soda. I’ve loved it since I was a kid, so I guess I’m still a kid!

What drives you crazy?

Complacency. I think you should always care about what you’re doing and strive to be better and better. I’m a passionate person. I can’t relate to people whose attitude is: “whatever.”  It drives me nuts!


What do you wish you could do?
Write faster without compromising on quality.

What is one of your happiest moments?
The day I sold my first two novels. My daughter was in first grade. I got the phone call from my agent just before I ran out to pick her up at the bus stop. She saw my face, flew off the bus, and started jumping up and down with me in the middle of the street. It was a priceless moment and memory.

What do you like to do when there’s nothing to do?

I love watching movies with my family, sometimes the same favorites over and over. I love doing crossword puzzles and playing word games. I’m very self-competitive, so I yell at myself a lot. And I love watching Yankees games. Sometimes I think I’m more involved than the players are. I certainly scream louder!

What’s your least favorite chore?
I hate dusting. I’m firmly convinced that the dust you wipe off hangs in the air and then resettles itself the moment you’re done.

What’s one of your favorite quotes?
“If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything” — Mark Twain


How do you like your pizza?
Thin crust, crispy, and with lots of cheese. I’m also a big fresh mushroom fan, so having those on top is a big plus.


What is the wallpaper on your computer’s desktop?
My Pomeranian, Mischief, who’s my furry baby.


What are you working on now?
I’ve already started writing my next Forensic Instincts novel. It’s a double-mystery, and it stretches my FI team in new and dangerous directions.


EXCERPT FROM THE MURDER THAT NEVER WAS


Lincoln Park


Chicago, Illinois



May 17th



Lisa opened the front door and peeked down the street. The sun was starting to dip down toward the horizon, and there was still no sign of her benefactor.



The May evening was still warm enough to sit outside, and Lisa needed the air anyway. After a full day of waiting on rich women and a few hours of deep house cleaning, she was ready to relax.



She poured herself a glass of ice tea and went out to the front porch, sitting on the top step to enjoy the evening and wait for Julie to arrive.



About a half hour later, she spotted Julie coming down the street. She was striding angrily, gripping a bag in her hands. Even from a distance, Lisa could see that something was very wrong. As she approached, Lisa could see that she was shaking.



This wasn't a bad mood. This was bad.



Lisa's stomach clenched. She rose and put her ice tea on the small outdoor table.



She was just about to hurry down to see what was wrong when a car sped down the street, stopping right next to Julie. The passenger door flew open, and a barrel-chested man with tattoos on his arms stepped out. He was holding a gun.



Julie turned, startled, and dropped the bag she was carrying to the sidewalk.



She didn't even have time to scream.



It happened in two seconds. Pop. Pop. Two muffled gunshots, straight into her head. The killer grabbed the bag off the sidewalk and jumped back into the car, which then screeched off.



Julie had crumpled to the street, blood gushing from her skull, the contents of her purse spilling out around her. Cosmetics, wallet, cell phone—everything rolled onto the street.



For an instant, Lisa froze, bile rising in her throat.



Then, she raced down the stairs and straight to Julie's lifeless body.



She squatted down. No pulse. No sign of life. Julie was gone.



Had those bullets been meant for her? Had they found her after all these years?



Lisa's head flew up, and she looked all around. The block was deserted. The killer had used a silencer, and no one had heard the shots but her.



It was just her.



What the hell should she do? If the drug ring was after her, they'd come for her again as soon as they realized they'd killed the wrong girl.
Unless they never found out.



Self-preservation took over. Lisa reached over and grabbed Julie's wallet, cell phone, checkbook, keys—anything that could identify her as Julie Forman.



Digging into her own pocket, Lisa pulled out her ID wallet and dropped it next to Julie's purse.



That's all the time she had. She could already hear sirens approaching, which meant that someone had heard the screech of tires, and maybe even seen Julie's body, and called for help. She prayed they hadn't spotted her. She couldn't wait around to find out.



Shaking violently, with tears of sorrow and panic splashing down her cheeks, she glanced one last time at Julie's body.



Then she took off.




The foregoing is excerpted from The Murder That Never Was by Andrea Kane. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced without written permission from Bonnie Meadow Publishing LLC.





ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Andrea KaneAndrea Kane's psychological thriller, The Girl Who Disappeared Twice, became an instant New York Times bestseller, the latest in a long string of smash hits. With her acclaimed signature style of developing unforgettable characters and weaving them into carefully researched story lines, Kane has created Forensic Instincts, an eclectic team of maverick investigators. Recruited because of their special talents and dynamic personalities, the high-energy members thrive on blatantly disregarding authority. Armed with skills and talents honed by years in the FBI and Special Forces, and with training in behavioral and forensic psychology, this unstoppable team solves seemingly impossible cases while walking a fine line between assisting and enraging law enforcement. With a worldwide following and novels published in over twenty languages, Kane is also the author of numerous romantic thrillers and historical romances. She lives in New Jersey with her family, where she is busily crafting a new challenge for Forensic Instincts.




Connect with Andrea:

Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  
Buy the book:
Amazon


 





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