Monday, May 23, 2016

The Buzz on PAST INDISCRETIONS

It's Monday, and that means another installment on my Book Buzz Series! Yep, I did take a couple of Mondays off--real life stuff, you know--but now I’m back!

Writing PAST INDISCRETIONS, my best-selling paranormal romance, was a labor of love for me. I combined my interest in Atlantis and past lives, along with the dilemma... or ethics... of human cloning. The research alone was a blast! After all, who isn’t enthralled by the mystique and allure of Atlantis? Then, to ground this suspense novel, I set a major part of the action in my father’s hometown--a town where I spent several summers at my grandmother’s house, just as Savannah Alexander, the heroine, does. PAST INDISCRETIONS is near and dear to my heart.

Marketing Copy: Can you escape your past? Or are past life issues carried over into present times? Find out how one woman must battle an impossible enemy in PAST INDISCRETIONS.

Haunted by recurring nightmares of doom, Savannah Alexander learns that the future and past are irrevocably linked. Will she be able to save herself and the man she has grown to love from the horrors that await her back in time... on the lost continent of Atlantis?


In matters of love, Tom Patterson has been hurt before. But when overwhelming coincidences bring Savannah back into his life, can he put aside his prejudices and act upon faith to protect the woman he loves?


Artist’s rendering of a possible cover

The editors at Awe-struck Publishing (Mundania Press) quickly picked up the options for this unique book. PAST INDISCRETIONS soon became a best-seller and #1 on the Fictionwise.com best-seller list. It’s also garnered 5 stars on Amazon.com, along with a variety of excellent reviews. PAST INDISCRETIONS is still available at Awe-struck both as an eBook and in Print.


Cover artist’s first proof


Final!
The perfect human clone may be possible... back on the island of Atlantis.


One fan of this book wrote to tell me how much he enjoyed Past Indiscretions because I “cleverly bring together the past and mythology.” Thank you! And as for Atlantis, well, I feel like I’ve solved that mystery and I also suggested what then became of the survivors. Who knows? Maybe what I proposed really happened!

This book is part of the Uncanny Paranormals line.


For those of you who like to read reviews, here they come!

5 STARS! COMPELLING READ! This book was my introduction to the works of Ms. Knight. What a compelling story - weaving a romance in and out of time travel/past lives - I could barely put the book down. If you are a fan of ancient Egypt and love stories, this book is a must-read!--Visionary Insight Press

Susanne Knight has outdone herself again. She builds a wonderful story of intrigue that thrusts you back in time to a place long forgotten... Atlantis! Her characters are so loveable; you find that you never want the story to end. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next. Excellent!--Paula Beaty Reviews.

4 stars! A sexy, fast-paced supernatural ride! Take this fast-paced supernatural ride back to the time of Atlantis and the creation of the Greek pantheon of gods. See how Ms. Knight deftly melds modern day and old world science with steamy romantic interludes with action scenes grafted seamlessly into the mix. PAST INDISCRETIONS is sure to jumpstart your imagination and worm its way into your great reads category.--Sime-Gen Reviews

4 Roses! How closely does the passage of time intertwine with the lives of humans? Can events from the past be relived or corrected in the present? These are interesting questions posed in Susanne Marie Knight’s new novel PAST INDISCRETIONS. This is a fascinating tale that manages to suspend any disbelief you may have about past lives, reincarnation, and the ability of good to triumph over evil. As she did in her story JANUS IS A TWO-HEADED GOD, Ms. Knight once again draws the reader in to the adventure, and encourages us to become part of Savannah’s often nightmarish experiences. This story is a delightful change from many of the paranormal romances out there. It never loses touch with the everyday existence of both Tom and Savannah, but still allows a natural drift into the “other” world which has such an impact on both their lives. I recommend it to anyone who would like to believe in their dreams.--A Romance Review

4 Stars! Ms. Knight has written a gripping paranormal suspense. The characters are well developed and engrossing. PAST INDISCRETIONS creatively brings together concepts of past lives and cloning with the fascinating mythology of the destruction of Atlantis. The mystery and unique plot makes this a fantastic page-turner that I was not able to put down.--The Romance Studio

4 Ribbons! Susanne Marie Knight keeps you guessing right up to the end of the story. You know what needs to happen but how she brings it about is a treat to behold. Once you start this story you won’t be able to put it down; PAST INDISCRETIONS seems to compel to the next page. I thoroughly enjoyed each twist and turn the story took. Kudos to Ms. Knight and a hearty Thank You!!--Romance Junkies

As usual, Susanne Marie Knight has created a highly unusual tale with a very unique storyline. PAST INDISCRETIONS takes readers on an adventure through time, to a place that is cloaked in myth and hidden in the fog of legend. A place that scholars of the modern world still debate--Atlantis. Ms. Knight's abundant imagination has gifted this novel with plenty of twists and turns, mythical marvels and intriguing characters. This romance crosses the genre lines with a daring blend of the classic elements of romance, fantastical adventures of the paranormal variety and elusive elements of suspense. Readers who appreciate an enigmatic, quixotic read will enjoy unraveling the mysterious of PAST INDISCRETIONS.--The Road To Romance

PAST INDISCRETIONS is an intriguing tale full of mystery and adventure. The plot is extremely innovative, with a new twist on the birth of both the Egyptian and Greek gods. Savannah is inspiring, with her determination and courage. Tom is a man who is courageous and passionate about those he loves. Jackson Zeuch is the perfectly evil character, driven by blind ambition and dreams of glory that trail him through the centuries. The secondary characters add dimension to this interesting tale. With vivid imagery of a world that scholars have debated the existence of for centuries, PAST INDISCRETIONS brings to life the mythical world of Atlantis and takes readers on a journey they will not soon forget.-- Romance Reviews Today

PAST INDISCRETIONS was a wonderful ride in the past and present. It is a time travel filled with mystery and a good dose of romance all mixed in. The villain isn’t your average evil but he is what he is: evil. Paranormal fans should be delighted with this one as the reader was. It was a delight and a half. The past scenes were full and ripe with imagination as is the entire book itself. You’ll keep reading into the night as fast possible just to see what happens in the end.--Romantic Interludes

Ms. Knight has brought us a book that has a very interesting topic: cloning. I really liked the way she wrote how the characters were feeling, and I was actually feeling “Whoa, this is way too weird.” PAST INDISCRETIONS is a quick paced and enjoyable read with some very interesting twists. I recommend this story to anyone who enjoys the paranormal romance. I will be reading more of Ms. Knight’s work, that is for sure.--Round Table Reviews

PAST INDISCRETIONS is a wonderful paranormal romance with a secondary mystery that is quite intriguing. More a reincarnation story than a time-travel, it does have a bit of that tone, also. The scenes that take place in the past are imaginatively done. The numerous coincidences play an integral part in the story. The villain is fairly vile, in both time periods. Not quite in the common way, paranormal fans won’t want to miss this one.--PNR Reviews

Set in a modern contemporary setting with time travel and paranormal elements, PAST INDISCRETIONS is a fun tale to read. Knight weaves an awesome spell over her readers easily blending the lines between reality and fantasy. Those looking for an entertaining read where time is a consequence, PAST INDISCRETIONS is a hot commodity.--Scribblers

PAST INDISCRETIONS by Susanne Marie Knight is worthy to purchase and read. From the beginning, it hooks readers as it tells about a young girl just trying to fit in, yet questioning her dreams. The character, Tom Patterson, is one man worth reading about and the adorable little daughter of his.--Loves Romances

Susanne M. Knight weaves a fast-paced romantic paranormal that’s bound to ensnare you from the beginning. This book is bound to keep you riveted while curiosity has you turning the pages.--Romance At Heart (Heartstrings)

This book had a lot of questions and Ms. Knight answered them all. It took me on a ride through time and dimension. I was wondering what was causing Savannah’s dreams and what everyone had to do with them. In the end, Ms. Knight tied up of the questions in a nice neat package. If you like stories with a twist, PAST INDISCRETIONS is a story for you.--Writers Unlimited

The writing in this paranormal romance is excellent--the dialogue is realistic, the characterizations are strong.--Scribes World Reviews

This is the first paranormal romance I have read, and the first book I have read by Susanne M. Knight. I found the romance to contain a pleasant suspense. Ms. Knight’s skillful alternations between times and event make the plot interesting. PAST INDISCRETIONS is well-written and quick to read.--Round Table Reviews (2)

Susanne Knight is notorious for 'romance writing with a twist.' Her novel PAST INDISCRETIONS is a love story that ties the past and future together that creates an impossible battle. [Her website] provides us with more information and also her techniques of persuasive writing.--Roxanne.

When I read the reviews for Past Indiscretions I knew this was the book to choose. I've always believed in reincarnation ... I feel I would find comfort and happiness with this book. Thanks.-- Melissa L.

I haven't read the book of PAST INDISCRETIONS yet. But I read the reviews and it is a fantastic story. Just like the stories I love to read. Full of mysteries, adventure, and romance.--Ana

PAST INDISCRETIONS is quite a book. I got so involved in it that I nearly missed my stop! Thanks for a great read!--J.G.

I just finished reading your PAST INDISCRETIONS and you cleverly bring together the past and mythology. I read it in a weekend because I was dying to reach the conclusion. It was a mystery with a very unique plot. I look forward to purchasing another of your books. Thanks for the great entertainment. A fan--Bob M

Just loved your book PAST INDISCRETIONS!--S.T.

PAST INDISCRETIONS was amazing!--Phyllis.

I really enjoyed PAST INDISCRETIONS! I couldn't put it down. You're a very fine story teller.--D.C.

PAST INDISCRETIONS is deliciously different. I really enjoyed it.--Jean D

If you only buy one book this year, make it PAST INDISCRETIONS!--Michael G

I really enjoyed PAST INDISCRETIONS.--M.C.

An extraordinary journey that must not be missed!--P.I.

Finally! I've been waiting for PAST INDISCRETIONS to come out. I love it!--F.L.

PAST INDISCRETIONS is exactly the kind of book I love to read!--D.C.

PAST INDISCRETIONS kept me interested. Extremely well-written!--R.R.

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Real Life Tidbit: When I was writing Past Indiscretions, my novel about Atlantis, past lives, and cloning, I created the Colby clan with three boys and a girl. One weekend, my family met a couple with three boys and a girl in the same birth order as my book. My daughter mentioned, "Mom, they all have the same face. It's scary!" I pounced on this sentence because it was a perfect fit, especially since my book deals with human cloning.

I also have to thank my daughter for her childhood habit of always wearing socks--even in bed. I had Savannah copy that habit and then, toward the end of the book, I showed why she instinctively never went barefoot. It was because of a past life experience. 

Zeus lifted a bottle the color of putrefied flesh. Although stoppered, the bottle seemed to throw off a stench. Savannah’s nostrils pinched in response.

“Who would believe the first step in duplicating a person is obtained through the feet?” He roughly removed her sandals and threw them on the floor. Opening the bottle, he then dipped in a brush and painted the bare soles of her feet.

The odor was as she imagined, but she quickly forgot it as her feet turned cold. Slowly, the coolness gave way to heat--searing heat. Like acid burning into her skin. She twisted in pain, but was determined not to cry out. Even so, she bit her lip too hard and tasted blood.

“Feels good, eh?” He caressed her shoulder. “Just wait until Anubis begins his part of the process!”

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Past Loves, Past Lives, PAST INDISCRETION!

I hope you enjoy Savannah and Tom’s story.

Happy reading,

Susanne Marie Knight
Read outside the box: award-winning Romance Writing With A Twist! 

Monday, May 2, 2016

The Buzz on THE MAGIC TOKEN

The idea for THE MAGIC TOKEN, my reader favorite Regency romance, came from a desire to combine a Regency with a touch of magic--the kind of magic where you might wonder, is this a coincidence or is it magic? Coincidentally (or was it?!) during my research for this book, I came across this sentence in a biography on Charles Darwin:

“[Charles’] friends enjoyed his tall stories: he claimed to one that he owned a Roman coin.”

While his friends didn’t believe him, I did! THE MAGIC TOKEN soon took shape.

For my “What if” scenario, I used: What if a golden coin had the power to change one's fortunes?


A MAGICAL TOKEN--When Amanda Barclay receives a magic token as a gift from a stranger, she is more than skeptical about whether this gold coin can change her fortunes. But then the very man who captured her heart years ago suddenly appears. Is it destiny or cruel fate? Does he even remember her? She desperately needs the position he offers as governess, but how can she endure being near to a man so beyond her reach?

A DIFFERENCE IN RANK--Marcus Hamilton, Duke of Yarborough, is a man burdened by family and political responsibilities. He does not have the time nor the inclination to dally with women beneath his station. But a chance meeting throws him together with Mandy, the engaging young sprite from his past, causing him to reevaluate his beliefs. For once in his life, the call of love beckons far stronger than the duties and obligations of his position. 

THE MAGIC TOKEN was quickly picked up by LIONHEARTED PUBLISHING where it grew to best-seller status, along with earning 5 star reviews from Amazon.com, Visionary Insight Press, and The Romance Studio. My novel also was an EPPIE Finalist for Best Historical Romance.



An old woman gives skeptical Amanda a magic coin. It couldn’t possibly work, but how else can she explain her sudden good fortune?

Print book available (2002 edition) at www.susanneknight.com/orders.htm

When the contract ran out, my publisher, Uncial Press, republished THE MAGIC TOKEN, where it continues to flourish today. In fact, one reader posted this comment about my Regency on a blog: “The book THE MAGIC TOKEN by Susanne Knight would also make a good musical.” Wow! I’m still flattered!


After receiving a gold coin, Amanda suddenly becomes governess to the sister of a duke. Is her good fortune a coincidence, or is it Fate?


This book is part of the Elegant Regencies line.


Here are some fabulous reviews:

FIVE HEARTS! The supporting characters are very good. I love Dona Ines weaving in and out of the story along with Pritchard, Nannette, Gregory and most especially Duca di Maggiore. Ms. Knight has given us a truly fun story! I enjoyed how she wove the magic into this, and that coin was just great! Another thing I liked about her story is the little pieces of history she added, like the line about the Marquess of Londonderry…of course, I’m a complete period geek and had already looked this up years ago. This is such a good read! I especially liked the epilogue where we see who Amanda passes the coin to for it’s next magic turn! Oh, and yes, I have read at least one other story by Ms. Knight (which I liked) and now I have to find her other work since I loved this story!--The Romance Studio

FIVE STARS! Another fine book from Ms. Knight! Her meticulous research into this period piece shines throughout this wonderful story. From beginning to end, her words paint the scenes with rich visuals which enrich the story line of the two main characters. You will be invested in this story after just a few pages and will not want to put it down. This book deserves its place among the other novels of Ms. Knight.--Visionary Insight Press

THE MAGIC TOKEN is gloriously magical and loads of fun! Susanne Marie Knight has taken a magical plot device and whipped up a charming tale in THE MAGIC TOKEN. Her characters are full blown and interesting, while the minor characters add spice. Ms. Knight’s writing is bright, and full of that Regency flavor readers enjoy. A sprightly romp with makes for a blast of a read!--Sime-Gen Reviews

4 Roses! Ms. Knight weaves a tale of magic. The golden coin is suppose to bring the person good fortune but seems good fortune for the book as well! This was a very lighthearted read and very easy to finish in one sitting--so be prepared to spend time with this story from beginning to end!--A Romance Review

THE MAGIC TOKEN is an enchanting take on the Cinderella fairytale, complete with an evil step-mother and fairy godmother. This is a well-researched, well-written story with wonderful characterizations. The duke, who has overcome his abusive childhood, is a great hero and Amanda is a caring and compassionate heroine. There was also a very pleasing secondary romance between the squire’s son and the Portuguese woman’s granddaughter. THE MAGIC TOKEN was a great Regency read, with some magical elements. If you like fairytales, give THE MAGIC TOKEN a try.--PNR Reviews

Susanne Marie Knight is a talented, versatile author whose books run from this light traditional Regency with a magical element, to time-travel, sci-fi romance, paranormal romantic suspense, mystery, and contemporary romance.--Romance Reviews Today

THE MAGIC TOKEN has Knight’s usual boisterous extended family, lonely child with a flighty mother and spunky heroine who wins the hero’s heart without even trying to. The characters are vivid and sympathetic, and the story rolls along nicely. There are hints of true magic in the story--the good luck charm is depicted as a token with real power--but the romance and most of the story itself rests on the usual day-to-day lives of the characters. Knight writes Regency romance well, her language and the concerns of the characters clearly reflect the culture they are living in.--PNR Reviews

OH … MY … GOSH!!! I just finished The Magic Token! I loved it! LOVE LOVE LOVED it! You are such a gifted writer … l love how you wove the story in and out of all the different real historical facts. And the coup de grace was Charles Darwin – and how you read about his mentioning he had a gold coin … wow, too cool! And I loved the comeuppance of Nanette … LOL … I just loved the book … and Gregory! I loved your line about how she looked in Marcus’s eyes, then they became the eyes of a stranger! It was great! Love love loved it!--N. G.

My family loved THE MAGIC TOKEN. It's a charming Regency imbued with magic and lots of wonderful characters. Once I opened the book, I left all my troubles behind and had a lively adventure with Amanda, Marcus, and company. Isn't that what reading is all about? My heartfelt thanks to Ms. Knight. I'm one of her fans! --Reggy, on Amazon.com

Enjoyed it very much. This is a page-turner!--B. B.

Fans of Susanne Marie Knight will enjoy THE MAGIC TOKEN!--C.B.

Leave all your cares away and enter an exciting new world. Live the dreams and enjoy all that you read--problems are forgotten and love, romance, excitement and live a life not only different, but one you could never believe you could. Reading is in fact another world--it affords you an escape and entertainment too easily left behind because of television and movies. They can never give you the true entertainment and excitement a good book does. Read one of [Susanne Marie Knight's] books and compare--you will not be sorry.--R. D.

A charming Regency with the intrigue of magic twisted with the fortunes of fate played out with wonderful characters.--M.H.
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As for a real life connection to this book, along with Amanda Barclay, I too have an interest in healing. Although I don’t use healing remedies on people in my “village” as Amanda does, I do have a Masters of Science degree in Natural Health.

Here is a passage from the beginning of THE MAGIC TOKEN where a young Amanda first meets Marcus--inadvertently and unexpectedly--in the woods on midsummer night’s eve.

Marcus must have noticed Amanda’s melancholy. A strange, hungered expression overtook his face. “Don’t ever change, sweet Mandy. I can tell you are one in a million.”
Clearing his throat, he gave her the basket. “Well, my moppet, you best be getting home. Shall I escort you?”
“No, thank you kindly, Marcus. I should return by myself. But what about you?”
“Ah, I am doomed to wander the woods ‘til sleep comes to claim me. You see, dear Mandy, I suffer from insomnia. That is why I happen to be out at this ungodly hour.”
He took a step away from her, then bowed. “‘Tis of no import. My thanks for a diverting evening.”
An unfamiliar ache settled over her heart. She did not understand it; nor could she explain it. For some unknown reason, she did not want Marcus to leave. “Wait! I have something that might help you.”
Reaching into her basket, she pulled out a small linen pouch filled with the herb chamomile. “Here, steep this in boiling water to make chamomile tea. It will let you sleep.”
Marcus’ grin made him appear younger than his years. Laughing, he shook his head. “What’s this? Are you a traveling apothecary? My wondrous Mandy.”
She liked being his wondrous Mandy, but his admiration made her uncomfortable. “I want to heal people when I grow up,” she mumbled at her bare toes. Her friends usually laughed at her when she told them her ambition.
He accepted the pouch, then lifted her chin. “A noble aspiration. However, I do believe you are already grown up, while I, on the other hand, have a long way to go.”

Once again, two strangers meet by chance. Or is it something more, is it... destiny?

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I hope you enjoy Amanda and Marcus’ story.

Happy reading,

Susanne Marie Knight
Read outside the box: award-winning Romance Writing With A Twist!