Natalie J. Damschroder
High-Stakes Romantic Adventure and Paranormal Romance
Love with a Shot of Adrenaline
Coming Soon
Carina Press
April 16, 2012
Also to be released in audiobook
by Audible in April 2012.
Preorder from:
Text Copyright © 2012 by Natalie J. Damschroder
Cover Art Copyright © 2012 by Harlequin Enterprises Limited
Permission to reproduce text granted by Harlequin Books S.A. Cover art used by arrangement with Harlequin Enterprises Limited. All rights reserved. ® and ™ are trademarks owned by Harlequin Enterprises Limited or its affiliated companies, used under license.
Just Released
Goddesses Rising, Book 1
Entangled Publishing
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Their power gives them strength…and makes them targets.
Quinn Caldwell is the epitome of a modern goddess. Her power source is the moon, her abilities restricted only by physical resources and lunar phase. She runs a consulting business and her father’s bar, serves on the board of the ancient Society for Goddess Education and Defense, and yearns for Nick Jarrett, professional goddess protector and the soul mate she can never have.
But someone has developed the rare and difficult ability to drain a goddess of her powers, and Quinn is a target. With the world thinking Nick has gone rogue (whatever that means) and that Quinn is influenced by “family ties” she didn’t know she had, keeping themselves safe while working to find the enemy proves harder each day.
But not as hard as denying their hearts…
Reviews:
"Wow, Under the Moon is a great book. It grabs you at the beginning and doesn’t let go until the very last page. The action is non-stop, the plot is full of twists and the tension is palpable. I also liked the fact that, although there are quite a few characters in the book, they were given enough time and backstory for you to grasp who they were before the story carried on, meaning you genuinely cared about them and what would happen."
"...overall this book had everything I look for in a book, characters I can connect with, action and maybe just a bit of smexyiness. Though as most of you know I am a sucker for a good romance and while this book leaned more towards the action it still had the romance I crave sometimes. I can't wait for book 2 in this series..."
"Natalie did a brilliant job in establishing each character and the world they live in. The lore behind goddesses walking amongst us and gods being practically extinct was quite interesting. Enjoyed it immensely. I’m looking forward to reading more of this series soon. Truly recommend it."
"Intense emotional story with a great paranormal plotline that just kept giving."
—Nicole, Romance Books Forum
"An enjoyable read with a deliciously alpha protector our to ensure his goddess stays safe."
—Shannon, Cocktails and Books
"What a good book, hard to put down, if you put it down. An excellent combination of characters keeps things tense all the way through. The trio's banter is witty and quite comical at times, and the author keeps throwing curve balls to spice things up. I'm looking forward to the next episode!"
—Wanda Plourde, Bookloons
"Under the Moon was an enjoyable read with a fast-moving plot full of suspense and sexual tension. The story reminded me a bit of Rachel Caine’s Weather Warden series, the way it was set up... A good amount of action will keep your turning the pages as well. Overall, Under the Moon was a good read that I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys urban fantasy with a touch steamy."
—Reading Between the Wines Book Club
"There was a good mix of action and and downtime where the characters were racing to find out what happened to each individual goddess, and how each character fit into their own place within the plot. Also, things weren't just handed away like they are in so many other stories. You were given a chance to figure it out on your own with the characters. As the characters were lead one way, you were lead that way, believing it could be one person when a chapter later you were presented with another aspect that had you believing it was someone else. It was not predictable which is very refreshing!"
"The world building was full of great explanations and imaginative powers. I loved the whole Goddess storyline. I liked meeting the different goddesses and hearing about what they could do. The action was not lacking. There were plenty of scenes that had my heart beating and had me wondering how the trio would get out of a particular situation. The ending wraps everything up nicely and I'm looking forward to reading what comes next."
—Stacy at Urban Fantasy Investigations
"The story builds to a sizzling climax (literally) and a very satisfying conclusion. I loved this book, give it 5 stars and recommend it for all lovers of urban fantasy and romance."
"Under the Moon was a good start to the Goddesses Rising series. It’s got action, romance, mystery, AND a pretty badass heroine. What’s not to like about that?"
"All in all, I found this to be a good read with lots of potential! I'm looking forward to reading more in this series in the future. This was my first read on my Kindle Fire and it was a great experience (although I do think I will always prefer an actual book). Recommended to fans of paranormal romance!"
Behind the Scenes
Carina Press
October 31, 2011
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Unabridged Audiobook from Audible!
Kennedy Smyth's firm provides security for companies and charities in seriously dangerous countries. She doesn't usually take on "frivolous" jobs, but when an old friend asks her to protect his son's movie shoot, she finds it hard to refuse. Also hard to resist is the film's charismatic star, Rogan St. James. The handsome actor piques her interest, while the strange actions of the terrorist threatening the set raise her suspicions.
Even though he's a successful actor, Rogan wants more—a real woman to love, the type he doesn't think exists…until he meets Kennedy. She intrigues him with her confidence and passion for her work, and frustrates him with her refusal to let him get close.
But Kennedy finds herself in a vulnerable position when she discovers that the terrorist isn't actually out to derail the film. She's the real target—and if he finds out how much Rogan means to her, he could be next…
Cover Art Copyright @ 2011 by Harlequin Enterprises Limited | Permission to reproduce text granted by Harlequin Books SA. Cover art used by arrangement with Harlequin Enterprises
Reviews:
"Overall,
I enjoyed this suspenseful and well-written tale. The plot has twists
that I never saw coming, and the interaction between Kennedy and Rogan
had me rooting for this couple the whole way. If you enjoy an
edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense story, then don't hesitate to get a
copy of Behind the Scenes and allow yourself to get swept into
this fantastic novel."
—4 books by Sunflower at Long and Short Reviews
"I liked the overall premise and the setting of the story. A female heading an exclusive security firm is a novel concept and the constant danger and action that is seamlessly integrated into the story makes for a compelling read. Though I felt that the romance aspect of the novel didn’t get an equal amount of attention as the suspense part, Behind the Scenes still managed to keep me turning the pages."
—Maldivian Book Reviewer's Realm of Romance
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Romantic Adventure from Carina Press
Eighteen years ago, a group of men killed Regan Miller’s boyfriend and tried to kidnap her daughter, Kelsey. Since then they've lived in hiding, always vigilant and never getting close to anyone.
When Kelsey goes away to college, Regan finally begins to relax. She even starts to think she can have a real relationship, perhaps with her flirtatious neighbor, Tyler Sloane. Then Regan is attacked again.
Desperate to get to her daughter, Regan accepts Tyler’s help—despite her suspicions about him. She knows nothing about Tyler but he knows a shocking amount about her past. Tyler can’t tell her what he knows or who he works for, but he insists she can’t face her enemies without him. Tired of living in fear, Regan is ready to take the offensive, with Tyler by her side. But is she relying too much on a man she can’t trust—and falling for him, too?
“Let me tell you one thing about this book: it’s absolutely incredible. It’s one of those books where there are times when nothing much is happening, but there’s a constant feeling of fear that permeates every page, even when it doesn't seem like there’s a reason to...If this is the quality of writing and plotting I can expect from author Natalie J. Damschroder, then she's going to become an auto-buy author for me. Well done.”—Poppy, Long and Short Reviews
"I absolutely love, love, loved Fight or Flight!!! Natalie J. Damschroder’s Fight or Flight is one high octane adrenaline filled thriller that doesn’t quit until the very last page. I honestly don’t know when I’ve been this excited while reading a book. There are some very sweet romantic moments in Fight or Flight, which I love, but the mystery surrounding Regan and Kelsey kept me on the edge of my seat. Ms. Damschroder’s intensely passionate writing makes you feel like you are smack dab in the middle of the story experiencing everything as the characters do. I love that Regan and Kelsey are both kick-ass females. They both are well prepared to defend themselves and others. I was constantly questioning the secondary characters. I didn’t know who was good and who was bad. I love that Fight or Flight keeps you guessing! Fight or Flight is a phenomenal action-packed story you would expect to find on the silver screen and I loved it!"—Miranda, Joyfully Reviewed
4 out of 5 stars from Ellinia at Library of Lights
“The biggest plus that secured my return to Damschroder’s work, was the way the story ended. I loved that I wasn't able to figure out who the villain was, and how the villain was connected to characters. I always say if I can't figure out the “whodunit”part of the book, the author has done their job and will find me reading more of their work. I can't wait to recommend it to my fellow readers.”—4 of 5 stars from Leafs and Bounds
“Fight or Flight is first class entertainment.”—B review, Nicole of Romance Books Forum
“With surprising twists towards the end, Fight or Flight is a novel that lives up to its very well deserved title.”—4.5 of 5 stars from Maldivian Book Reviewer's Realm of Romance
EXCERPT
***
“For a little person, you sure sneeze loudly.” Kelsey frowned at her
roommate. Van was bundled in flannel pajamas, a chenille bathrobe and a
fleece blanket, looking utterly miserable but still trying to keep up
with her homework. “You should be in bed.”
Van snuffled and burrowed deeper into the blanket. “I hape cobes,” she
groaned, her stuffed sinuses making her words difficult to understand.
“And tests. But I can’t believe you haven’t gotten it. I…I…” She sneezed
again, trying to cover her face with the blanket and not entirely
succeeding.
“I have a good immune system, I guess.” Kelsey turned back to her laptop
and typed a quick email to her mother, reassuring her that everything
was fine. She added a snide reference to something only she’d know
about, so her mother would know she hadn’t been abducted and her email
hijacked. Annoyance that her mother made her do this drove the snideness;
guilt at being annoyed kept her from being completely generic. “I never
get sick,” she added absentmindedly.
“Never?” The velvety voice came from the open doorway. “Sounds like a
challenge to me.”
Kelsey couldn’t stop her goofy grin when she saw Tom. “Hey.”
“Hey.” He tapped Van on the top of the head as he passed, then bent and
gave Kelsey a soft kiss. “I have a cold, too,” he whispered. “Wanna go
in your room and see if I can give it to you?”
She delighted in the shiver going up her spine. “That sounds like an
idea. But I need to study for my physics exam.”
“I’ll help you.” He nipped her cheek, then her earlobe. “You can have a
kiss for every question you get right.” His lips slid down her neck, and
the shiver turned into a shudder.
“Umm. Van, we’ll be in the room studying, if that’s okay with you.”
“Fine.” She blew her nose.
Kelsey stood and reached for her book, but Tom grabbed it first. She
smiled at him. “Just come in if you need something, or wanna go to bed,
or whatever,” she told her roommate.
“Don’ worry, I’m not shy.” She waved them off and went back to her book.
“Don’t forget the raincoat, kids.”
“Van!” Kelsey’s blush rose from her feet to her scalp all at once.
“We’re not—” She couldn’t look at Tom. They hadn’t even talked about
sex yet. It had only been a few weeks since Tom had tracked her down and
asked her out. Anyway, no way would she do it with her roommate right on
the other side of the wall.
Tom didn’t seem to have the same inhibitions. “Don’t worry, Van, we
won’t do anything you wouldn’t do.”
Van snorted, which sent her into a coughing fit. “Get outta here.”
Kelsey let Tom tug her into her room and slide the door shut. He took
the book out of her hand and fell onto the bed, propping himself up on
one elbow as he flipped pages. She sat, leaning against his abdomen, and
he reached automatically for her hair, twirling a lock of it between his
fingers. After a moment he flipped the book closed and looked up at her.
“Sorry, Kels, but I don’t think I can concentrate on this right now.”
Her breath caught at the look in his eyes. “I…um…have a test.”
“I know.” He cupped the back of her head and guided her to lie down
beside him. “I’ll help.” He lowered his head. “Later, I promise,” he
whispered. His mouth touched hers and she melted like she always did.
His lips were hot and coaxing, his big hand stroking up over her hip,
then tightening on her ribcage to pull her closer to him. His hard-on
pressed against her left thigh, and her body quickened, making her want
to lift up, rub herself against him. Something tensed low in her body,
tightened. Her breasts ached.
The kisses went on and on, his tongue dipping in and out of her mouth,
his hand now cradling her head, his thumb stroking her jaw. He wasn’t
pushing her, wasn’t getting any more urgent, but the moment came when
she had to stop him or continue all the way through.
Hating herself, panting, she pulled her head back and pushed at his
shoulder just hard enough to break the kiss. She braced herself for his
anger, annoyance, derision. She’d come to expect it whenever she put on
the brakes with other guys.
But he didn’t respond with any of those things. His eyes were soft
beneath their heavy lids, and his mouth curved up in a tender smile.
“Not yet, huh?”
She shook her head, her gaze lowering to the V of his polo shirt. She
toyed with the buttons. “Not yet.” Her voice was husky. “I’m sorry.”
“Don’t be.” He stroked a hand over her hair. Her heart seemed to fill
her chest. “I’m not here just for the sex, Kels.”
She snorted. “All guys are here just for the sex.”
Tom looked around, mocking jealousy. “Where? I’ll beat their heads in.”
Laughing, she shook her head again. “You can say it, but I know better.
But it’s not why I’m holding out,” she hurried on, not wanting to argue
about basic nature. “It’s more complicated.”
He gave her the universal look guys get that says “women.”
“I know, I know, we make it more complicated when you guys think it’s as
simple as can be.” She sighed. “It’s my mom.”
He frowned. “You don’t want to have sex with me because of your mom? No
offense, but you’re an adult. I don’t think you need her permission.”
“That’s not it.” She abandoned the button and looked up. He must have
understood it was a long story, because he settled on his side with a
groan, tucking her into his shoulder.
“Go ahead. Tell me.”
Since his tone was resigned but not uninterested, she did. “My mom’s
only thirty-seven,” she began, giving him a minute to do the math.
“Well, that says it all.” His muscles bunched as he started to turn, but
she put a hand on his chest to keep him still.
“There’s more. My dad was eighteen, too, when she got pregnant, and he
was killed before I was born. He’d gone to tell his parents about my
mother, who was an orphan, and something happened. She never knew what.
Or at least, she never told me. He died, and she had me, and ever since
has been totally paranoid about life. About my life.” She told him some
of the survival tips her mother had drilled into her.
“What the hell’s she afraid of?” He laughed at the extremes, but sobered
quickly at the look on her face. “You don’t believe it, do you? That
you’re in danger?”
Kelsey hated to admit she didn’t know what she believed.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Cover Art Copyright @ 2011 by Harlequin Enterprises Limited | Permission to reproduce text granted by Harlequin Books SA. Cover art used by arrangement with Harlequin Enterprises