Showing posts with label The Norsemen Sagas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label The Norsemen Sagas. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

Available Now! Norseman's Gift, Book 4 in The Norsemen Sagas – $.99 for a Limited Time!


Book 4 in The Norsemen Sagas, Norseman's Gift, is available everywhere now! For a limited time, you can get it for only .99!



Get caught up in this steamy love story set in 9th Century Scandinavia, a tale of two people who don't know who to trust, yet share a passion that threatens the very foundations of their lives. Katrin is a Seeress,  the gifts of prophecy and empathy bestowed upon her by the gods – with one stipulation:  She must remain pure and innocent of men. Yet, she has been plagues by dreams of a handsome warrior, raising questions about her future. When she comes face to face with her Dream Man, doubts are raised about her entire life.

Hradi, a man unable to trust because of a past betrayal, wants Katrin, almost from the first moment he sees her. Her purity fascinates him and despite the obstacles she has placed in his path, he is determined to have her. Despite his many doubts, he agrees to her terms, confident in her innocence is real. Or is it? Others conspire in secret, making Hradi wonder if he was wrong in trusting the young Seeress.

Read more here and enjoy an excerpt below:

* Is he a threat to the power given to her by the gods – or a threat to her heart? *


Having spent almost all her life under the careful tutelage of the Seeress who has raised and trained her, Katrín anticipates her day of freedom, when she becomes a full Seeress in her own right. Not only does she possess skills as Völva, a wand woman, but also as Spákona, a prophet woman who receives visions and messages from the gods. Katrín looks forward to building her own retinue, with the hopes of bringing prosperity to many. Yet, as that day grows closer, doubts about her mistress arise and spur questions that demand answers.

Compounding her worries are the dreams where she is haunted by a virile warrior, one who inspires longing and desire. Katrín doesn't understand the meaning of these dreams, since the conditions for her to retain her powers require her to remain pure and innocent of men. When she comes face to face with her dream warrior, she is overcome by powerful, lust-inspiring visions.

Since being publicly betrayed, Hradi has despaired of ever finding a woman to trust. He is suspicious of the arrival of the Völur, the group of witches claiming to bring blessings from the gods. Because the young maiden faints at the sight of him, he is certain she fears him, even as he is drawn to her innocence.

Concerned Katrín's mistress intends harm, Hradi makes a deal that allows him time alone with the young witch, far from the watchful eye of her guardian, in the hopes of learning the truth of their intentions. Instead, he soon realizes the innocent Seeress understands him more than anyone else ever has and forces him to face the doubts that have plagued him for years.

Secrets threaten to destroy their fragile trust, and the hope they share for a possible future together. Will they discover the truth, before it's too late?

Features A Kinky Twist on History! love scenes, including bondage and spanking!

You can get Norseman's Gift at all retailers:

*Note: Print version is not available at the .99 price.

Here's the promised excerpt of Norseman's Gift:

Hradi knew the instant the young flame-haired woman was about to fall and moved quickly to catch her before she tumbled into the river. Her slender body, while limp, was warm and soft against him. The sensation set off strange emotions, combined with several very familiar ones, though it had been some time since desire had sparked in his blood. He scooped her up and turned to his father, ensuring a somber expression to hide the sudden riot in his thoughts.

"To the great hall," Thorfinn said. He turned to the woman named Gunilla. "We have plenty of room for you and your girls. If you'd prefer something more private, we can discuss it after we tend to her."

Hradi let the way to the hall, noting the pale complexion, more striking against the red of her hair. Was she ill and would she spread the illness among the village? Hradi wondered if his father made the right decision inviting this Gunilla into their home.

"What do you think is wrong with her?" His brother Kori, strode up beside him.

"I don't know. I worry if she is ill, it will be devastating for Grindafell."

Kori nodded and placed a hand to the woman's forehead. "She doesn’t have a fever."

"No." Hradi strode quickly through the village and waited while Kori opened the doors to the hall. Aware of the others following, he brought her to the back, and placed her in his own bunk. A moment later, the silver haired Völva pushed past him and sat beside the fallen woman. Hradi resisted the urge to shove the woman aside. Instead, he stepped to the side of the bunk.

"Katrin, wake, my dear," Gunilla said.

The sound of the ill woman's name sent a jolt through Hradi, as if he had actually been struck by Odin's lightning. Why? Why did he feel such resentment to the witch who led the throng of girls?

"Come with me." Kori's grip on Hradi's upper arm drew his focus from the fragile girl. He followed his brother through the hall and outside.

"What has you so uptight?" he asked his older brother.

Kori continued to stride across the village square, to the forest beyond.

"Yo, brother, where are you going?" Hradi followed. Once they were out of sight of the village, Kori stopped.

"I didn't want to discuss this in front of Father yet, but I don't trust the Völva. Even so, the young one, there is something about her."

Hradi nodded. His own interest in the girl had taken root within him and he wanted to learn more about her and what had befallen her.

"What troubles you about the Seeress?"

Kori shrugged. "When I saw her… there is something familiar about her. I was reminded of a tale I heard at The Thing last summer."

Hradi recalled that story. "You think she might be in Grindafell to deceive or cheat us?"

"It's possible. Rumors said there was a witch who pitted clans against each other."

"How can such a woman do that?"

"By choosing those who are already share hostility for each other. A few whispered words, a spell cast to turn the gods from one to the other…"

"You believe such tales?"

Kori shrugged. "Perhaps. Maybe it is the sense I have seen her before, though I cannot say for sure that I have. I think the whispers are worth listening to. I think you can learn if those whispers might be true."

"How?" Even as he voiced the question, Hradi sensed what was coming.

"The girl. The way she looked at you..." Kori held Hradi's gaze. "I think you can use her obvious attraction to get her to trust you."

Hradi let out a bark of laughter. "Brother, you are a fool. She fainted in fear at the sight of me."

Kori's gripped Hradi's shoulder, squeezing. "Did you not see the look on her face just before? That wasn't fear. That was the look of a woman aroused. By you."

Hradi didn't know what to say; the sudden bolt of excitement made it feel as though Thor's thunder itself hammered through him. He had wanted the girl the moment his gaze landed upon her, but only realized the fact at that moment. That she might harbor similar feelings seemed too much to hope for.

"I see the idea intrigues you," said Kori.

Hradi grinned and nodded. "I will certainly enjoy earning her trust."

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Norseman's Gift - Available for Pre-Order Now!


NOW AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER!
 NORSEMAN'S GIFT – THE NORSEMEN SAGAS  BOOK 4 

Just in time for the holiday season – Norseman's Gift is now available for pre-order everywhere, for the low price of 0.99! Book 4 in The Norsemen Sagas is the story of Katrin and Hradi, and continues the saga of the clan of Grindafell and their allies. Set in 9th century Scandinavia, Norseman's Gift shares A Kinky Twist on History! with the other books, but with some differences as well. You see, Katrin is virginal and pure – and she must remain so. As a Seeress, she runs the risk of the gods taking away her powers of prophecy and empathy if she lays with a man. Of course, Hradi has no intention of keeping his hands off her. It doesn't hurt that he also knows many ways to please a woman, as Katrin will soon find out.

Pre-order Norseman's Gift everywhere – and have it the moment it goes live 11/21:




* Is he a threat to the power given to her by the gods – or a threat to her heart? *

Having spent almost all her life under the careful tutelage of the Seeress who has raised and trained her, Katrín anticipates her day of freedom, when she becomes a full Seeress in her own right. Not only does she possess skills as Völva, a wand woman, but also as Spákona, a prophet woman who receives visions and messages from the gods. Katrín looks forward to building her own retinue, with the hopes of bringing prosperity to many. Yet, as that day grows closer, doubts about her mistress arise and spur questions that demand answers.

Compounding her worries are the dreams where she is haunted by a virile warrior, one who inspires longing and desire. Katrín doesn't understand the meaning of these dreams, since the conditions for her to retain her powers require her to remain pure and innocent of men. When she comes face to face with her dream warrior, she is overcome by powerful, lust-inspiring visions.

Since being publicly betrayed, Hradi has despaired of ever finding a woman to trust. He is suspicious of the arrival of the Völur, the group of witches claiming to bring blessings from the gods. Because the young maiden faints at the sight of him, he is certain she fears him, even as he is drawn to her innocence.

Concerned Katrín's mistress intends harm, Hradi makes a deal that allows him time alone with the young witch, far from the watchful eye of her guardian, in the hopes of learning the truth of their intentions. Instead, he soon realizes the innocent Seeress understands him more than anyone else ever has and forces him to face the doubts that have plagued him for years.

Secrets threaten to destroy their fragile trust, and the hope they share for a possible future together. Will they discover the truth, before it's too late?

** Featuring A Kinky Twist on History! love scenes, including bondage and spanking!

In the meantime, catch up on Books 1 through 3 of The Norsemen Sagas:

Norseman's Revenge



Norseman's Deception

Norseman's Salvation:

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Norseman's Deception is a Finalist!



Some very exciting news came in tonight and what a way to kick off November! Norseman's Deception, Book 2 in The Norsemen Sagas, is a finalist in the historical category of the RWA NYC's Kathryn Hayes When Sparks Fly Contest! Needless to say, I am very thrilled by this news – doubly so because I almost missed the deadline! Literally got it in at the very last second.

Finaling on its own is a very sweet reward, regardless of whether I win or not. To me, it's a sort of validation that my books ARE good, for all the doubts I have when sales are slow, or if I get a bad review that literally takes the breath out of me.  Reading is, of course, subjective, and I fully understand that my books are not everyone's cup of tea, but sometimes the folks leaving a bad review can be positively cruel. That does sting, because as most writers will agree, our books are like our babies. We bring them to life, nurture them and help them grow to their fullest potential, just like I do with my real children – though truthfully, seeing my kids happy and successful is obviously tons better than having a book received well by readers. I'm a mom first, after all.

I'm still very excited, though! :D Who wouldn't be? This is praise from my peers and colleagues, and I thank all who read and judged Norseman's Deception to be worthy of finaling. Check out the shiny finalist badge I received:


Isn't it pretty? :D I will find a nice permanent home for it here on the blog and on my website.

Here's more about Norseman's Deception, along with an excerpt and links where you can find it:



* He Saved Her from Outlaws – Who Will Save Her from Him? *

Fearing an arranged marriage, Thora Korisdotter flees her village, vowing never to return. With her two pet wolves beside her, she is confident in her safety, protected by the loyal animals. But outlaws attack, wounding one of her beloved pets. Only a mysterious stranger saves her from certain death. Now in his debt, she must repay him as he asks – with her body.

After being cast out of his clan as an outlaw, Ari Hugisson has wandered for years. The time of his banishment is nearing its end, and Ari has the proof he needs to clear his name and unmask the real murderer – his brother. His journey is delayed when he comes across a beautiful woman under attack. Compelled to save her, he also knows exactly how to claim the debt she owes, using the passion lurking under the surface of her fiery nature.

Betrayal cuts deep with the revelation Ari has lied and knows well the man Thora was to wed. But the passion he stirs is unlike anything she has ever known, even if he insists on treating her as little more than a slave.

When Ari confronts those who would see him killed, will Thora stand beside him, even at the risk of losing her family – and her heart?

** Contains explicit love scenes featuring A Kinky Twist on History! bondage, spanking and more!

CreateSpace (print): http://ow.ly/9Hpr305UHBh

Here's that excerpt, when Thora tells Ari the reason for her flight. Enjoy!

"So you are to wed him, then?"

She nodded. "My father has made the agreement. After The Thing, he was to bring Hersir back to Grindafell for the wedding."

"You fled before they could return."

She nodded. "I won't go back. And I can't go to Tingwalla."

"An impossible dilemma." Ari leaned back against the log once more, his thoughts racing with ideas. "But I must be compensated. Don't you agree?"

Again, she nodded. "I've given your demand some thought. If I were to… offer myself to you, then afterward you can continue to Tingwalla, and I will go my way. But I will no longer be valuable as a bride. I would ask that you take a message to my father and perhaps he will stop searching for me."

Ari sucked in a breath. The wench was cunning and his admiration for her grew even more, as did his yearning. He shifted, his cock now hard and uncomfortable. He cleared his throat.

"Aren't you worried your father's honor will be ruined? You place him in a difficult position by refusing a marriage he's agreed to."

Thora shrugged. "I know. But I have no choice. My father married my mother for love, and when she died, he found another, and their love is strong. I only want the same for myself."

Ari nodded in understanding. Thora was like most other women, wanting a love match, rather than an alliance to ensure the strengthening of both families and clans. He also knew full well that she would never have that while wed to Hersir. But Ari had no intention of letting Thora leave his side. She'd likely be furious when she realized his lies, and again the idea of binding her so she couldn't flee poked at him. Hel, once she learned the truth, he'd have no choice. He held back the eager grin and thought carefully on his next words.

"Very well, Thora. I will accept your offer of payment, however, there are conditions on this agreement."

Her lips pressed together, her eyes flashing with suspicion. "What are your conditions?"

"I decide when it is time for us to part ways."

She nodded. "What else?"

"You will obey my every order. Please me and you shall be rewarded."

"And if I don't?"

He shrugged. "You'll be punished."

Only the crackling of the flames broke the abrupt silence. Even the creatures of the forest had quieted, as if all waited to hear her reply. He held her stare, daring her to refuse.

She didn't. In fact, he wasn't sure he managed to completely contain his surprise when she nodded again.

"Very well. I accept your terms." She looked away for a moment, then leveled her dark stare on him once more. "When… I assume you want…"

He chuckled. "Yes, Thora, I want you. And I will have you. Tonight."

Monday, July 17, 2017

Should Have Done This Sooner



So in the last few weeks, I've tried a couple of experiments, to see how I can increase my audience and as a result, also my sales. A very tight budget has kept me from doing some things I want to try, so I needed cost-effective ways to make that sales increase happen.

The first experiment wasn't as successful as I'd hoped, though part of that is due to my not paying attention to it as much as I should. The launch of my new website, as well as a new newsletter that is set to be released late summer/early fall occurred a few weeks ago. It hasn't generated a lot of traffic, just a trickle, despite the enticement of winning - anyone who signs up for that newsletter will be entered into a contest to win free books, all sorts of fun goodies, and a $25 Amazon GC. If you haven't yet ventured over to the new site, take a minute to check it out – there's  info about each of my books, as well as any upcoming events and of course, the place to sign-up for news from me. I plan on sending out the newsletter at most 4-5 times a year, with a few special notices regarding new releases and the like.
Experiment number two was much more successful - placing an ad through Amazon Marketing Services. Again, budget was keeping me from doing this, but I decided to bite the bullet and take a shot. Turns out, it isn't as expensive as I thought it would be.

I chose to do a Sponsored Ad, where the book shows up on the pages of other books. My first attempt was rejected, and the explanation they gave was about the cover showing sexually suggestive images and content. I had actually researched ads that contained covers and books that were similar in tone/content to mine, so I reached out to support for some clarification, guidance and advice to bring the ad in line with their rules. Turns out it was my custom ad text that was the problem – a capitalization issue which was an easy fix, and once completed, was now acceptable for placement.



I'm about a week in now, and I have to say, I am very pleased with how the ad is working so far. After a couple of days watching the metrics, I learned how to narrow my targeted keywords – I followed the advice from others who ran successful ads and have about 300 keywords for the ad, though I did not use all of them at first. I still haven't used all of the initial words on my list, though I have added some I didn't have before, after seeing where my ad showed up and what other books appeared beside it. It's been very interesting to watch, and a lot of this brings me back to my corporate days of working with advertising campaigns and determining what gives the greatest ROI.

While the number of impressions (the number of times the ad appears) is actually quite - pardon the pun – impressive, it's watching and determining how to best utilize specific keywords that are generating the most traffic as far as clicks go. Studying which keywords gave the highest number of impressions and clicks helped me determine where to up the bid per click (and as a fangirl, it's awesome that some of those keywords are my favorite authors. Squee! lol)

Anyway, I figure all those impressions are at the very least getting me exposure, and the clicks are most definitely generating sales. What I noticed however, is that though the ad is specifically for Norseman's Salvation, and the ad has gotten me nice sales of that book over the last several days, I've gotten way more sales on the first two books in the series, specifically Norseman's Revenge. Since the end of the first day of the campaign, all three of The Norsemen Sagas books have consistently been in the Top 100 in the Viking Romance Category, most of the time in the Top 50. My overall sales have increased very nicely, spreading to my other series as well. In general, the ad has been successful – and I have more than tripled sales (across all my titles) compared to what I've spent so far (on one title). 



So for those who were curious how things were working, there you have it. I strongly suggest trying an AMS ad campaign to increase your sales – while I haven't sold thousands of books in the last week, I am very pleased with the increase I am seeing, and will continue to keep this ad campaign going as long as I can. And with the relaunch of the fourth Magiste Chronicles book on the horizon, I will be starting a new campaign.

The only regret I have about this is that I didn't do it sooner.