My Chat with Kali Willows

Hello and welcome!

Today my guest is a sweet, sweet lady I met a few times now and it is always such a pleasure chatting with her. Her books are out of this world, pun intended 😉

I love this quote of hers!

Please welcome Kali Willows!

If you remember I had a few of her hunks for a chat, there was Connor from Romancing the Author and then there was the trio from Claiming Trinity, Trinity, Arawn and Kane. Click on the links if you missed them or they are worth a reread if you didn’t 😉

Born and raised in Toronto, Kali now resides in the exquisite eastern Ontario countryside where she enjoys the serenity of nature. When she isn’t busy being the married mother of two, certified trainer or counselor extraordinaire, she shadows worlds of paranormal passion & intrigue.

Kali strives to create emotional, compelling stories and characters you can’t help but love, hate and cheer for. Captivated by her love of dragons, gargoyles and everything paranormal, she pens these delightful creatures into epic tales of romance and adventure and often infuses her passions of martial arts, music and ironic twists even she didn’t foresee.

A good cup of tea with the crackling fire gets her creative juices flowing in the wee hours of the night, when the house is quiet and she can type away to her heart’s desire.

Do you have a nickname?
Several! 😀   Mom, Babe, Baby, but mostly KareBear ❤

What is one word best describes you?
One word? Just one? Hmmm, taps chin in deliberation It would depend on what facet of life we’re talking about… Parenting: protective; career: determined; problem-solving: innovative. I supposed “complex” would suffice? 😀

What makes you laugh out loud?
Most of the time, my kids. Their sense of humour astounds me and they come up with some real doozies! I love laughter, it’s so good for the soul. But I’m partial to particular movies that give me a fantastic ab workout! Eddie Murphy’s Delirious gets me every time, romantic comedies with fantastic one-liners and standup comedy, as long as they are funny, I will admit, the last movie that had me in stitches was Ted 2. Gut-busting laughter! Mark Wahlberg is not hard to look at either, lol.

What is your favourite smell? What does it remind you of?
True to my author persona, I find it difficult to narrow down to just one. When it comes to sexy seduction or general swooning, the scents of Armani or Stetson really get me evil grin As for home/comfort: anything sweet and earthy. I’m a sucker for vanilla, brown sugar, cinnamon, and baked apple scents. I love floral, citrus… let’s say I can’t choose just one. Again, I’m complex.

Favourite place to spend time in.
My picturesque rural property is my place to be: swinging on my hand-made wooden swing under our massive maple tree, sipping tea and listening to the blissful sounds of nature all around, and my children’s laughter. On cold nights, I love sitting next to my wood-burning stove, sipping wine and listening to the crackle of the fire while I type away on my latest creation. Most of all, I love spending time in the arms of my beloved or curled up on the couch cuddling with my beautiful babies. That is the ultimate bliss ❤

Is there a genre that you refuse to read?
Although I’m drawn to some more than others, I don’t begrudge any genre of literature. My only limitations to reading, with the exception of time, are: it has to be well-written, thoughtful and engaging. If the writing can whisk me away to another world and draw me in as my own experience, I’m completely sold on the work!

Writing! What started it?
This is a thought-provoking question I have been asked before, and I wish I could offer a succinct response. The truth is, I’ve been writing and story-telling since I was a small child. It is my most coveted form of expression and the most effective way I work through things mentally. Let’s just say, during stressful periods of life, I tend to write a lot more destruction and retribution-themed stories, and I find it the most compelling, cathartic tool one could ask for. In my teens, we lived in a townhouse. In my bedroom, there was a tiny door in my wall that led to a crawl space above my garage. That became my portal to magical escape. I created my own private hideaway there. I wrote poems on the rafters, hung my favourite posters and kept trinkets of value in the farthest corners. That is where I found the beauty of self-expression through the written word.

If you could choose another career what would it be?
Ironically, I already have! After 25+ years of working frontline in the social services sector and realizing I had lost my drive for the work, I decided to go back to school to pursue a career I was more passionate about. I’m currently in the final semester for public relations, where I can use my love and experience of graphic design, communications and event planning! If there is one thing I love, it’s to plan epic events that leave people swooning and wanting more. Stay tuned for KaLiCon!
Looking forward to that!

Audiobooks! What started them?
I love the premise of audio books. A genius extension for the lovers of books that may not always have time and silence to sit and read. Having the right voices narrate literature springs characters and their adventures to life in the mind of a reader. If done well, it is one of my favourite reading experiences. So why do I try to have my titles put into audio? Because my personal brand is all about bringing books to life, and what better way than with audio and film? If I could, I would make movies too! 😀 My hope and goal is to have each of my books in every possible format so no readers miss out because of the type of format they use.

Does your work convey a specific emotion or message?
Each of the stories I write has distinct themes of urgent challenges, time-driven journeys, transformation, and healing. With every new tale I weave, I find myself digging deeper emotionally, and crafting more intense experiences with the goal of keeping the reader engaged and on the edge of their seats.

Who is your intended audience and why should they read your books?
My intended audience are lovers of books, fiction, and endless possibilities. When readers indulge in my stories, they are promised adventures filled with action, suspense, romance and epic tales of overcoming impossible obstacles while the heroes/heroines emerge better people for the experience.

What is next in your writing?
Oh my darling Eniko, I have two new releases coming out!

I’m in the final stages of completing a riveting new dragon story that is part of the epic box set: Stoking the Flames, due to release March 28, 2017. 13 amazing authors have collaborated to bring 13 sizzling tales of dragon romance to make your toes curl. My contribution is called: Curse of the Dragon’s Eye. It’s a tale of Egyptian dragons, deceit, magic and mayhem!

I am so looking forward to reading this anthology, as you know I looooove dragons 😀

Another release coming soon is my second addition to the Wiccan Haus series with Decadent Publishing. Mythic Iron is a tale of three dragons, motorcycles, mixed martial arts, deadly attacks, and healing. No cover to show yet.

Flames of Venom…
    When the president of Mythic Iron is brutally slain, the VP, and the Sergeant of Arms set out to protect the club’s legacy, and next target. Sai is a world-class MMA champion, and a half-breed dragon with a fiery temper. After the vicious murder of her mother, she fled the arms of her two mates and the MC, and made her way to the ring. A fighter with an edge, she doesn’t apologize, never holds back and doesn’t need saving. The unexpected arrival of her estranged mates coincides with the biggest fight she’s ever had; the one for her own life.

Dragons of iron…
    A leather-clad soldier of fortune with a patch, was all Levi could be anymore without her. His lost identity before the MC took an injured child in left a mystery for him, one no one can fill in the blanks for. Now, a purple dragon with a propensity for danger, he evolved into the ultimate weapon for their club. Can he ever reclaim their mate, or will she kill them first?

Drake was born into a legacy of crime. In the wake of their mate denying their bond, evolved a cold, merciless dragon that did whatever the MC required of him. In a desperate bid to safeguard her, their reunion is soon wrought with tragedy, leaving Sai critically injured. Devastated by his failure to protect her and the people she loved, he reaches out to an old comrade for help.

Welcome back to the Wiccan Haus. A place meant for healing, but with an ominous threat looming, will the arrival of the purple dragons mean the end of island peace?

Sai’s tattoo created by Kali

Here is a small unedited taste… you read it here first 😉

    “No…” She widened her eyes and shook her head. “I don’t want to hear it.” Her chin quivered and she backed away from them. “Babe, please, you have to listen—” Levi asserted.
    “I said NO!” she hissed.
    “Hortese, who’s scheduled for a bout tonight?” She spun around and jogged over to the banged up lockers past the boxing ring and grabbed a roll of tape. Levi moved to follow her and Drake gripped his shoulder. “Don’t.”
“There’s a few new people tonight. Didn’t recognize their names, but they haven’t arrived yet,” the manager replied.
“Yes we have,” a low voice boomed from the doorway. Drake twisted around to find six, gargantuan men in black pants and t-shirts saunter in. The epitome of bad news; all dressed in black with stone cold expressions, domineering stances and muscular physiques. Their very presence shot pangs of caution through his stomach.
“Brother,” he whispered as he studied each one from head to toe. His sergeant of arms mumbled back. “What do you want me to do, take em out?”
“Not yet, we don’t know why they’re here. See how she handles it. We’ve got her back if anything happens,” he ordered firmly. If only he believed his own words. The churning in his gut told him this was connected to the reason he came here. There was no way to know if these were the same guys that ram-sacked their clubhouse just last night, but he’d bet his patch they were.
“Who’s first?” She called out. That raspy, venomous tone was one he knew all too well. Drake glanced over to find her narrow her eyes and slowly slither the tip of her tongue across her upper lip, she was pissed, but now she was on guard too.
Sai pounded at the old CD player until the tune, Mortal Combat began. The volume blared throughout the gym, she turned back and glared at the six men. Her serpent sense of smell alone would have alerted her to something about the new arrivals he’d already suspected, the fact she cranked up her traditional kick-ass tune was the tell-all; shit was about to get real.

I already love Sai 😀 Looking forward to reading it, I know I enjoyed your first one sigh

I also have an audio version of my Wiccan Haus story Claiming Trinity in production as we speak!

Oh that is so exciting, I loved reading their book and I am so looking forward to listening to them too.

Thank you so much for a chat, as always, it is a divine pleasure ❤

Thank you Kali for accepting my invite, I know how busy you are. It is always a delight to chat with you.

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Thank you for joining us, I hope you enjoyed the chat and you will give Ms. Willows’ books a chance. You will not regret it, I promise.

To keep in touch with Kali Willows and check out all her yummy books, follow the links below and if you chat with her, tell her I said hi

website • blog • Twitter • Facebook • Amazon • Smashwords • Bookstrand • Goodreads •

Two lucky readers, chosen by Sexy Mr. Random from the comments, will get an e-book from Ms. Willows backlist, winners’ choice. The contest is open until 3 pm EST, Monday, February 27, 2017. GOOD LUCK!!!

Until next time read a book, listen to a book and don’t forget to show your love by leaving a review!

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Happy visit, sad goodbye

Hello and welcome!

Today is a happy/sad day for me… read on and find out why.

The moment I entered my studio, I could feel his presence.  He didn’t need to face me, for me to know who he was.  No one could fill a room with power the way Loth could, not Liessen, Daroth, or any of the other Elven Kings.  Not even the legendary Gabriel had that effect.  He knew I could sense him, and even without turning to face me, as I swung to look in his direction, I could tell he was smiling.

I knew you were here.  I told Lothrariel.

I didn’t doubt it for a moment, my beauty.  I would never try to hide my presence from you, not even if I could.  Our friendship has never been about games.  We have no need for those.  Come, sit with me by the fire, so we can talk and spend a little time together.  Lothrariel invited.

Fire?  I have no fireplace in this room.  Yet, as I look past him, I note the signs of one in the background.  There is more going on here that I don’t understand, and would like answers to.  Our relationship might not have been about games, but there was always a degree of mystery to it, as well as a sense of closeness that couldn’t be denied.  The first thing I wanted to know was where the sense of space was coming from.  This room wasn’t this large before.

No, my lady, your room is not very big, although it is charming enough.  The fireplace that you see is in my home, which is beyond the portal that I opened so you could cross into my world.  Will you come to me?  Lothrariel asked.

I smile, as Loth holds out a hand towards me, to offer his assistance, as he beckons me forward.  I move towards him, place my hand in his, and he smiles, as he notes that it is trembling.  He reassures me with his eyes that there is no danger, and nothing for me to fear, even as he escorts me across the boundary that separates our worlds.  He speaks, and his words flow around me like water, softly touching my mind like the fluttering wings of a butterfly.  I am transformed, as a dress made of gossamer in deep red covers my body, and I feel like I am floating on air.

What has happened to my winter coat that I was wearing only moments before? 

You will not need your coat here.  My home is comfortable and warm.  The fire will drive the chill from your bones, as you sit with me by the fire and ask your questions.

I can smell the fragrant scent of burning pine, hear the crackle of the flames as they dance around the logs that never seem to deteriorate.  I step closer and feel the heat from the blaze on my skin and wraps around my mind with its invitation to make myself comfortable.  It feels so good.

Within moments, I am sitting on a large comfortable seat for two.  I am holding a snifter of warmed brandy, as I relax against Lothrariel’s reclining body.  I look into his face and drown in the depths of his eyes, as I fight to remember why I came.  There was something important that I needed to ask him, but I can’t remember what.  Ah yes, there have been rumours about him and those who I have come to love in the Elven Chronicles.

I hear that you are taking your people away.  That you do not intend to return to my world.

That isn’t quite the way it is.  I am taking my people from this world, that is true, but we will return.  I have no intention of forsaking you.  We will continue to send you news about us, as we rebuild the Elven Empire, and get to know those who have come to join us.  Lothrariel explained.

Will it be so difficult that you must leave?  I ask sadly, my eyes tearing up.

My lady, do not cry, I could not bear that.  Our lands are vast, and there are surprises awaiting our attentions.  We are not as alone in this part of the world as we thought we would be.  You will find this out, as members of our people travel through what we thought were uncharted, and uninhabited lands.

Can you tell me more?  I was intrigued, despite everything.

That is not my intention, at least not yet.  I have only brought you into my home to assure you that we have not deserted you.  Lothrariel softly stated.

Then why are you going?  I don’t understand. I admit, I am puzzled by all of this.

I would shield you from the world that surrounds you, if only for a while.  I surround you with comfort, the serenity of my home, and the safety of the Elven Empire.  You are tired, rest.  Your soul thirsts for the peace your world lacks, rest easy in the knowledge that it exits here.  Relax, and dream of life as it should be lived.  I tell you that those who do not dwell in our world are not forgotten.  They are always welcome to visit, even for a short time, as we build, live, love, laugh and dwell in the arms of the Empire.

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I don’t remember much after that except the sense of well-being and serenity. I hope you enjoyed it, because I sure did. 😉

Lothrariel, the Elven Emperor, hails from The Elven Chronicles series by M. A. Abraham. A series that I adore and was fortunate enough to be along for the journey from conception to publishing.

I didn’t really like Elven books before this series, but the world that Ms. Abraham has opened for the readers is amazing and I wish I could go in and never return, and many times I loose myself among the Elves while following their life story.

Read them yourself and you will see why I love the series so much, follow the various characters, each finding their Life Mate and happiness. Of course their life is not easy, they fight against an enemy that is formidable and cunning. Amid all the strife, the author can weave in humour and lighthearted banter that make the books very light and enjoyable. The love is palpable in the story and the bonding scenes are heart melting, the words that the Life Mates speak to each other and joins their life forces.

I have mixed feelings about the last book of the Elven Chronicles, “Kings of the Empire”. On one hand I am looking forward excitedly to see the end of the Drazon, the ultimate evil in the Elven world who plagued the lives of so many generations of Elves and the reunification of all the Elven Kingdoms. On the other hand, I am feeling sad because my love, Lothrariel, my Elven book boyfriend, will be finally claimed by his Life Mate, S’Larea, but I will keep him mine in my heart forever; also with this book the Elven Chronicles comes to and end ;(

For those of you who follow the Elven Chronicles, do not despair. This series will end, BUT there will be more Elven stories coming and I have to tell you, they will be awesome. One is EC: One Empire with the first book “Rising from the Ashes” releasing December 2017 and the other is The Guardians of the Empire series with the first book “The Goddess” releasing February 2018. You’ll have to thank in part M. A. Abraham’s Elven Elite Squad, the author’s street team, they voted for more to be written. They ROCK!!!

Sign up to Ms. Abraham’s blog and follow her on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date. You can also sign up to my blog, I will have all the news too

To keep up with the series or check out the other books by M. A. Abraham, you can also check the links below.

• website • Amazon • Barnes & Noble • Goodreads •

One lucky reader, chosen by Sexy Mr. Random from the comments on this chat, will win a signed copy of the “Kings of the Empire”, to be announced after 3pm EST, Thursday, February 16, 2017, the release day of this book. GOOD LUCK!

Until next time read a book, listen to a book and don’t forget to show your love by leaving a review!

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“Elven Chronicles” Celebration – part 6

Hello and welcome!

Today is the 6th and last post leading to the release of the last book in the Elven Chronicles, Kings of the Empire by M. A. Abraham on February 16, 2017.

I along with the many fans of the Elven world have connected to one character or another, cheered them with each triumph and wept at each loss they suffered in the battle with the demon horde… or laughed at their antics.

One thing that stayed constant is their absolute love for their Life Mates and I am sharing the bonding scenes in each book which are my fave in all the books.

YOU ARE MINE, I AM YOURS, TOGETHER WE ARE ONE

Book 11 is…

INTO THE DEMONS LAIR

I really enjoyed reading this book and the cover is beautiful, fits their story. Their journey is not easy, full of danger and were some tense moments where I sat up and was chewing my nails… and then there are the lighter moments for which Ms. Abraham is known for, where the tension is broken and I found myself laughing out loud. I was so happy for Larien when it was revealed that Rothliel is her Life Mate, a very well-matched couple in every way.

    As they lay, looking into each other’s eyes and exchanging silly grins, he spoke.

    “Larien, you are mine.”

    Larien’s smile widened, as she ran a fingertip lightly over his lips and responded.  “Rothliel, you are mine.”

    “Larien, I am yours,” Rothliel purred smugly, deep in his throat.

    Larien’s response surprised him, as she grinned and admitted.  “You most certainly are,” She then added, after a moment of hesitation, “Rothliel, you are mine.

    They exchanged a long kiss, that threatened to reignite their passions, and then, in one voice, finished.  “Together, we are one.”

    Neither Rothliel nor Larien thought about the war, for the few hours they were left alone.  There was no one there to remind them that things were not as they should be in their world.

Larien’s sister, Alyssa finds her Life Mate too in this book, but like all Eagle Claw women, she is not easy to succumb to the bond yet LOL Be prepared for a few surprises especially one that reveals something that nobody knew about in the Elven Empire and that brings hope that the Elves will be triumphant over the Demon Horde. Happy reading!

99c until February 17, 2017 – buy links

And now onto the conclusion of the series, book 12, releasing on February 16, 2017.

KINGS OF THE EMPIRE

This book brings happy and sad emotions for me, happy because we finally find out the outcome of the war against the demon horde and sad because it is the end of the series and my ultimate book boyfriend, Lothrariel finally bonds with his Life Mate, S’Larea…
It is a huge book with lots of happenings but I am convinced that you will not be able to put it down…

AN EPIC ENDING TO AN EPIC SERIES.

    As Lothrariel wrapped his body around his Life Mate’s, S’Larea raised her eyelids to look into his eyes, and gave a small smile of satisfaction, as she repeated their bonding words.

    “Lothrariel, you are mine.”

    They were words Lothrariel was sure he would never tire of hearing, and he repeated his.  “S’Larea, you are mine.”

    “Lothrariel, I am yours,” S’Larea murmured.

    Lothrariel looked into S’Larea’s softly glowing eyes, so filled with her love, and smiled, as he answered.  “S’Larea, you are mine.”

    “Together, we are one,” they breathed as their lips touched and blended.

on sale for $5.99 until February 17, 2017 – pre-order links

Here is your chance to grab the these two books in the series at a very low price for a limited time.

Check out this awesome trailer for the series, created by Wicked Muse

There is a Thunderclap campaign for the KINGS OF THE EMPIRE release day, your support and shares are appreciated.

A RAFFLECOPTER giveaway is set up, running until the release day! Good luck. Click here!

There is a release party on FB on February 15-16 to celebrate the release of the “Kings of the Empire”. We will have pre-event postings and giveaways, come join in!

Thank you for joining me in the celebration and I hope to see you next time.

Until then… read a book, listen to a book and don’t forget to show your love by leaving a review!

“Elven Chronicles” Celebration – part 5

Hello and welcome!

Today is the 5th of the 6 posts leading to the release of the last book in the Elven Chronicles, Kings of the Empire by M. A. Abraham on February 16, 2017. See my post with the preorder links.

I along with the many fans of the Elven world have connected to one character or another, cheered them with each triumph and wept at each loss they suffered in the battle with the demon horde… or laughed at their antics.

One thing that stayed constant is their absolute love for their Life Mates and I am sharing the bonding scenes in each book which are my fave in all the books.

YOU ARE MINE, I AM YOURS, TOGETHER WE ARE ONE

Book 9 is…

TRATCHARS

The couple bonding in this book had a long time to wait until they were able to finally become Life Mates… and she had to learn the hard way that some rules are not meant to be broken.

    Ennacas swallowed and bowed to the stronger will.  She knew the Great Guardian was right and it was only a matter of time before she would give in anyway.  She also couldn’t think of a more fitting place for them to say their words of bonding than in front of the Free Land’s Talisman. 

    Endiku and Ennacas moved to face each other and, while they were still kneeling, they joined hands as they exchanged glances.  Ennacas looked contrite and Endiku looked sympathetic.  There was no smugness in either of their expressions, and this was something Ennacas decided she could accept.  Endiku spoke first.

    “From the moment my eyes met yours, I have loved you.  Ennacas, you are mine.”

    “I have waited my whole life for this moment,” Ennacas admitted, before adding.  “Endiku, you are mine.”

    “Ennacas, I am yours, body, mind and soul.  I place all that I am in your keeping.”  Endiku moved to the next stage.

    “You humble me with your gift, my heart swells with pride that you would place such faith in me.  I will never bring you shame, I will fight by your side, I will guard your back.  I will be true to the trust you have placed in me and in return I give you everything that encompasses who I am, and place it under your protection.  Endiku, I am yours, and will remain so throughout eternity.”

    As one they continued, “Together, we are one, may we never be parted.”

    Endiku lowered his face to Ennacas’ and kissed her, long, lingeringly and with all the sweetness he felt for his love.  As their lips parted he gave her a promise.  “I will make up for last night later.”

    Ennacas, with eyes that sparkled mischievously, replied.  “Promises, promises, I think you are stuffed with hot air.”

    “You may find that the wait was worth the effort,” Endiku teased.

99c until February 4, 2017 – buy links

and book 10 is…

EARWEN’S SONG

Make sure you stock up on tissues… This story is vying for first place with “Return of the Legend”, book 5, for me. I’be been wanting to read Eöl’s story from the time he appeared in the series, larger than life warrior, protector, with a dry sense of humour that made me crack up. I am glad fate choose Eärwen for his Life Mate. I hope you will take the journey with them, it is worth it.

    “I don’t deserve you,” Eöl declared.

    Eärwen chuckled, as she responded, “I know, but your are stuck with me anyway.”

    “Eärwen, you are mine,” Eöl spoke formally.

    “Eöl, you are mine,” Eärwen responded.

    “Eärwen, I am yours,” Eöl replied.

    “Eöl, I am yours,” Eärwen agreed.

   “Together, we are one,” they finished.

    “About time,” Eden spoke, as she walked into the room with their baby nestled in her arms.

    Eärwen’s expression grew soft and tender, her eyes glowing with love, as she held out her arms to take the child from her mother.

    As Eden settled the baby into the cradle of his mother’s arms, she smiled, as much at the look on Eöl’s face as the overall picture they made together, nestled in her daughter’s bed. [….]

    “Eöl, I would like you to meet our son.”

    “Our son,” Eöl echoed in wonder.

     Eöl was completely oblivious to the steady stream of tears coming from his eyes.  A son, they had created a miracle and he hadn’t even known about it.

99c until February 4, 2017 – buy links

Here is your chance to grab the these two books in the series at a very low price for a limited time.

Check out this awesome trailer for the series, created by Wicked Muse

There is a Thunderclap campaign for the KINGS OF THE EMPIRE release day, your support and shares are appreciated.

A RAFFLECOPTER giveaway is set up, running until the release day! Good luck. Click here!

There is a release party on FB on February 15-16 to celebrate the release of the “Kings of the Empire”. We will have pre-event postings and giveaways, come join in!

Thank you for joining me in the celebration and I hope to see you next Sunday.

Until then… read a book, listen to a book and don’t forget to show your love by leaving a review!