Tag: space opera

Moonlight Rhapsody Reissue

I am excited to announce the reissue of Moonlight Rhapsody. This science fiction romance is book two in The Light-Year Series. It was previously published by Dorchester. This Author’s Edition has been updated with added bonus materials.

Moonlight Rhapsody

MOONLIGHT RHAPSODY
Copyright ©1994 by Nancy J. Cohen
Published by Orange Grove Press on Sept. 15, 2020
Digital ISBN: 978-1-952886-07-2
Cover Design by The Killion Group, Inc.

Sparks ignite when a diplomat turned spy meets a beautiful slave overseer in this action-packed science fiction romance.

When an ion storm causes Rolf’s spacecraft to crash on the planet Souk, he is captured and thrown into a slave labor camp. A diplomat turned spy, he’s on a secret mission to contact the resistance. But his plans go awry when he catches the eye of the beautiful female overseer who fancies him for her personal attendant.

Ilyssa is excited to meet the new slave. With his piloting skills, he might be able to fly her off the planet. But first she must rescue her parents, who are being held hostage by Pasha Ruel. Ruel uses Ilyssa’s power of siren song to mindwash his enemies. Can she convince the new slave that she’s been forced into her role?

Rolf isn’t sure if he can believe her story, but he accepts Ilyssa’s offer of freedom. Together they flee Ruel’s camp and begin a cross-country trek. Their trip is fraught with perils, including their forbidden passion for each other. Ilyssa’s gift comes with a price, and to follow her heart means to lose her special talent. Can she love a man when it means sacrificing her dreams?

Praise

“Nancy Cohen creates a richly detailed futuristic world sure to stimulate the reader’s imagination.” Award-Winning Author Kathleen Morgan

“Ms. Cohen keeps our excitement at fever pitch as Rolf and Ilyssa fight their way to freedom and love in this thrilling novel of the far future.” RT Book Reviews

“The well-drawn characters put your imagination into overdrive. Add forbidden passion and you have a futuristic adventure that is scintillating and heart-stopping. Ms. Cohen has definitely proven herself a master of this genre.” Rendezvous

“A well-conceived plot, great characters, enough future technology and aliens to satisfy the dedicated science fiction fan, and a sensual romance all come together in a terrific story that will appeal to romance and science fiction readers alike.” The Paperback Forum

“Moonlight Rhapsody is an action packed, fast-paced futuristic romance. The lead couple are magnetic together as they cope with planetary-wide problems and their growing love for each other. Nancy Cohen has a visionary gift of writing about the future in a manner that makes it seem like it’s happening today.” Affaire de Coeur

Excerpt 

“Look at me,” Ilyssa commanded. When he’d raised his face, she said in a purposefully loud voice, “I have brought you here to act as my personal server.” 

Surprise sprang into his crystal blue eyes, but he stayed silent as she continued. 

“I’ll expect you to assist me with my meals, keep my chamber clean, maintain my wardrobe, and satisfy any other needs of mine that may arise. Hopefully, in time, you will grow to anticipate my requirements. You’ll sleep in the adjacent parlor. That way, you’ll be close at hand if I want you during the night. Now, shut the door and I’ll show you where I keep everything.” 

The man complied, closing out the buzzing of the Hortha guards stationed outside the door. 

“Pardon, mistress, but I’m not exactly clear on my duties,” he said in a soft tone. “You wish me to maintain your suite and serve your meals, but what else am I to do?” 

“My name is Ilyssa. You may call me that in private.” 

As she rattled off a list of chores, Rolf listened carefully, but it was the unspoken duties that worried him. She’d said she might want him during the night. That meant only one thing as far as he was concerned. She expected him to service her personally. Rolf wondered if he would be able to perform under forced circumstances. 

Studying her physical attributes, he decided it wouldn’t be too difficult. Soft waves of auburn hair cascaded over her shoulders. Tiny wisps framed a face with features so perfect they might have been chiseled from porcelain. Her eyes were a remarkable shade of green flecked with gold. His gaze drew to her lips, perfectly contoured for a man’s kisses. She was lovely, but with the beauty of an ice queen. It didn’t extend to her heart. 

Sparks ignite when a diplomat turned spy meets a beautiful slave overseer in this action-packed science-fiction romance. MOONLIGHT RHAPSODY #fantasy #romance Share on X

BUY NOW  or download for FREE on Kindle Unlimited – https://amzn.to/3iU2wEJ

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Circle of Light Reissue

I am excited to announce the reissue of Circle of Light. This science fiction romance is book one in The Light-Year Series. It was previously published by Dorchester. This Author’s Edition has been updated with added bonus materials.

Circle of Light

CIRCLE OF LIGHT
Copyright © 1994 by Nancy J. Cohen
Published by Orange Grove Press on Sept. 8, 2020
Digital ISBN: 978-1-952886-06-5
Cover Design by The Killion Group, Inc.

A Dream Come True 

Circle of Light started as a story dream. I was at work as a clinical nurse specialist in my hospital office when in strode the most gorgeous man I’d ever seen. He was tall with thick black hair and celestial blue eyes. His silvery jumpsuit fit his lean body like an animal skin. The man strode over to me and announced that I was the one he sought. I must accompany him immediately.

My boss had told me to expect a visitor, so I followed the guy to an elevator down the hall. The lift skyrocketed upward, and when we emerged, we were in a spaceship.

That’s when I woke up. I had to finish the story. And so I did. This book went on to become my first published novel and winner of the HOLT Medallion Award.

Circle of Light was great fun to write. Having been an avid Star Trek fan and romance reader, it was a treat to combine the genres of science fiction and romance. The futuristic setting became the backdrop to a passionate love story.

Short Blurb

Attorney Sarina Bretton is kidnapped from Earth by Captain Teir Reylock of the Coalition Defense League. As the legendary Great Healer, Sarina is destined to marry Lord Cam’brii, a stiff politician. But on the way to meet her betrothed, she falls in love with the dashing captain instead. Although Teir returns Sarina’s passion, he must fulfil his duty as her bodyguard to protect her from the Coalition’s enemies and from his own heart.

Praise

“Nancy Cohen sparks your imagination and melts your heart with her wonderful tale of galactic adventure and star-crossed lovers.” Marilyn Campbell, award-winning author of Lovers in Time and The Innerworld Affairs series

“Circle of Light is a well-constructed futuristic romance that will appeal even to die-hard Star Trek and general Science Fiction readers. Great plot, believable aliens, and interesting locations all make Nancy J. Cohen an author to keep your eyes on.” The Paperback Trader

“Nancy J. Cohen is a shining light in the futuristic galaxy, a writer whose amazing talent propels readers into a universe filled with strange new worlds, amazing technologies, and unusual species that would have made George Lucas sit up and take notice. Circle of Light glows with a radiance that few writers can ever achieve.”  Affaire de Coeur

“Circle of Light is a luminescent futuristic romance filled with fabulous characters. The action-packed novel will excite and satiate fans of science fiction and romance works alike. Nancy Cohen is a tremendous talent whose novel will remind readers of the Star Wars trilogy.” The Talisman 

Excerpt

“By the Gods, Sarina, you’re so beautiful,” he murmured, kissing her again. She was everything he’d expected and more, but he wanted to make their first time together special. He pulled back, regarding her dazed expression. “Let’s find a more comfortable place to continue this.” 

“Wait, I’m not ready,” Sarina protested, uncertain she wanted to go that far. 

“Why not?” His heated gaze raked over her. “We’re both enjoying this, so why stop?”

Sarina might be attracted to Teir, but she was engaged to two other men. The absurdity of her situation made her want to laugh or cry, or both. Robert was waiting for her back home. How could she face him again if she slept with another man? And Rolf would be furious if he found out she’d been unfaithful. She couldn’t allow herself to give in. 

These thoughts took but a moment to flash through her mind. “I can’t. It’s not right. Lord Cam’brii—” 

“Is a chunk of ice. I’m not.” Teir reached out to grasp her, no doubt intending to dissolve her resistance with a kiss, but she stepped out of range. 

“I said it’s not right.” It annoyed her that he was going against the very principles of duty and honor he supported. “I’m sure Rolf wouldn’t take lightly to his bride having an affair with her bodyguard.” 

“To Zor with Cam’brii. All he cares about is politics. You’re just a means to an end as far as he’s concerned. I’ll make you feel more than he ever will.”

Attorney Sarina Bretton is kidnapped from Earth to become the legendary Great Healer & save the galaxy from a devastating plague in CIRCLE OF LIGHT #sciencefiction #romance Share on X

The story continues in Moonlight Rhapsody and Starlight Child. I hope you’ll hop aboard for this “rip-roaring adventure to the stars.”

BUY NOW or download for FREE on Kindle Unlimited – https://amzn.to/3kY1BoP

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GIVEAWAYS

Reach for the Stars Giveaway Sept. 1 – 14
Enter to Win a signed first edition copy of Circle of Light and a polished hematite stone known for its calming influence.

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Booklover’s Bench Sept. 1 – 18
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Cover Reveal – The Light-Years Series

I am excited to share the beautiful covers for The Light-Years Series. These stories were my first published books and they hold a special place in my heart. All three titles were previously published by Dorchester and have been updated with added bonus materials.

Circle of Light    Moonlight Rhapsody    Starlilght Child

Cover Design by The Killion Group, Inc.

Circle of Light, volume one, began as a story dream. It was so exciting that I couldn’t let it go when I woke up. I finished the story and went on to write two more sequels. Circle of Light was the seventh book I’d written and my first futuristic romance. I’d combined my love for Star Trek with my passion for reading romance and blended them together in this story that won the HOLT Medallion Award.

PRE-ORDER SALE! Order all three books now and save $6.00 off the regular prices. Available until Circle of Light launches on Sept. 8th.

Pre-Order Sale

CIRCLE OF LIGHT
Digital ISBN: 978-1-952886-06-5, Orange Grove Press, Sept. 8, 2020, $3.99
Pre-Order Sale for $.99 https://amzn.to/3kY1BoP

Attorney Sarina Bretton dealt with cold, hard facts, not fantasies of faraway planets and spaceships. But Captain Teir Reylock whisked her to worlds—and desires—she’d never imagined possible and toward the fulfillment of an ancient prophesy.

MOONLIGHT RHAPSODY
Digital ISBN: 978-1-952886-07-2, Orange Grove Press, Sept. 15, 2020, $3.99
Pre-Order Sale for $1.99 https://amzn.to/3iU2wEJ

When an ion storm causes Rolf’s spacecraft to crash on the planet Souk, he’s taken prisoner and thrown into a slave labor camp. Here he catches the eye of the beautiful female overseer, Ilyssa. Can he resist her charms long enough to complete his secret mission?

STARLIGHT CHILD
Digital ISBN: 978-1-952886-08-9, Orange Grove Press, Sept. 22, 2020, $3.99
Pre-Order Sale for $2.99 https://amzn.to/32aHFGN

Cultural specialist Mara Hendricks and Commander Deke Sage meet on a mission to rescue a kidnapped child in a voyage that takes them across the galaxy and into each other’s arms.

The Light-Years Series - Out-of-this-world love stories among the stars. Pre-Order Sale! #scifi #romance Share on X

For my Mystery Fans, do not fear—there is a mystery in each story! In Circle of Light, we must discover the truth of the legend and who Sarina is truly destined to marry. Moonlight Rhapsody presents the puzzle of a mole in the Coalition government who is feeding information to the dastardly Souk slavers. And Starlight Child takes us on a chase across the stars to rescue a kidnapped child. What is the leader of the planet Yanura hiding from our heroes? I dearly hope you’ll try these stories so you can soar away on an adventure that will provide the ultimate escape. However, be advised the love scenes are NOT behind closed doors.

I can’t wait to read them! How do I get them on sale? CLICK HERE and pre-order all three books individually. They’ll be delivered to your email inbox on the release dates.

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Did you miss my guest post at The Kill Zone on A Writer’s Learning Curve? Check it out here – https://killzoneblog.com/2020/08/a-writers-learning-curve.html

Revisiting Earlier Books

I’m revising my very first published novel, Circle of Light. This title won the 1995 HOLT Medallion Award and blends my love of science fiction with romance. When I was a fledgling writer, it gave me great joy to let my imagination go wild and create this soaring fantasy. This story began a trilogy and was one of four books I did with Dorchester writing as Nancy Cane.
coverCL
The story follows the hero’s journey in that first we see attorney Sarina Bretton in her natural habitat. She is kidnapped from Earth by Captain Teir Reylock of the Coalition Defense League. His mission is to deliver her to the alliance for her marriage to Lord Cam’brii, a stiff politician. Through this union, Sarina will become the Great Healer and save the galaxy from a devastating plague. Sarina, unhappy about being forced from her home, refuses to cooperate. But after an encounter with one of Teir’s enemies, she crosses the threshold and accepts the challenge. Along the way, she falls in love with Teir instead of the councilman she’s destined to wed.
Oh, what fun I had creating this tale! It brings me great pleasure to reread this story and make it even better. It’s amazing how much a writer’s skill advances over the years. Revising may be a tedious job, but it’s necessary to polish a book to perfection. I might be writing mysteries now, but these stories were my first love. They’ll be available to you again with new covers and bonus materials in my revised Author’s Editions.

Tropes: abduction by a hot alien, space travel, starship captain, political intrigue, betrayal, psychic ability, strong female lead, royalty, star-crossed romance, legends & prophecy, secret identity.

What are your favorite elements in the books you read?

Keeper of the Rings – Reissue

Keeper of the Rings, one of my earlier science fiction romances, is the book that taught me how to write a murder mystery. It was the fourth book I wrote for Dorchester in my early days as a romance writer. I’m happy to announce the reissue of a newly revised and yes, better written, edition. It’s the last romance I wrote before switching to mysteries and starting my Bad Hair Day series. So how did this book inspire me to write a straight mystery novel? First let’s see what the story is about.

Keeper of the Rings

A PRISM Awards Finalist

Story Blurb

Taurin is shrouded in black when Leena first meets him, his face shaded like the night. At first she believes him to be a simple farmer, but the man exhibits skills worthy of a warrior. With his commanding presence, he’s an obvious choice to be the lovely archaeologist’s protector on her quest for a stolen sacred artifact. Curious about his mysterious background, and increasingly tempted by his tantalizing touch, Leena prays their perilous journey will be a success. She must find the missing relic, or dangerous secrets will be revealed that may forever change her world.

Who stole the holy artifact? Only the members of the ruling priesthood, the twelve-member Synod, had access to the sacred closet where it was kept. Was it Zeroun, the stern Minister of Religion? Perhaps Karayan, Leena’s family friend and Minister of Justice, is involved. Or maybe Sirvat is guilty. The Minister of Finance has something to hide. So does everyone on this elite council, including the Arch Nome, Dikran.

Leena is assigned the perilous mission is to retrieve the artifact. She engages Taurin Rey Niris as her protector. Together, they journey on a desperate quest around the globe and deep beneath the ruins of a hidden temple. Meanwhile, Leena’s brother investigates the backgrounds of the ministers. He finds that each one of them has a secret to hide.

Sound familiar? An amateur sleuth investigating a murder follows a similar process.

Here’s an excerpt wherein Leena and Taurin discuss the suspects with her brother, Bendyk, and his lovely assistant, Swill. Oh, and be prepared for two love stories! This is a romance novel, after all. The spice level is hot.

Excerpt

“We’ll pretend to be new settlers when we go to Woden,” Leena explained. “Dikran is arranging for the proper documentation. Now tell me, have you and Swill made any progress?”

Swill answered, tugging at the long sleeves of her burgundy blouse. She’d tucked it into a black skirt that hugged her hips. “Magar makes regular entries in his receipt book. These deposits have no mention of the source. Sirvat transfers the money into the Treasury account. Her financial records are impeccable, but she takes trips every so often, returning with a new piece of jewelry each time. It’s odd, because normally she’s not one to adorn herself.”

“I’ll bet I know where she gets those pieces.” Leena related what they’d learned about Sirvat’s relationship to Grotus.

Bendyk shook his head. “She seems so strait-laced. It’s hard to believe she’d fall for a rogue like him.”

“Perhaps Sirvat hides a passionate nature. Now that I think about it, some of the items I saw in Grotus’s mansion are similar to pieces in Karayan’s house. The minister has quite an extensive art collection.”

“Are you implying he buys goods from Grotus?” Bendyk asked with a horrified expression.

“Not necessarily. They may simply share the same tastes, although Karayan is a much better dresser.”

Taurin snorted. “We’re not here to discuss anyone’s preference in art or clothes. Did you investigate Zeroun? As Minister of Religion, his department is responsible for administering the Black Lands. Someone there has granted illegal rights to the Chocola Company.”

“We’ll check into it,” Swill assured him. “We’ve cleared most of the other Synod members but weren’t sure about Sirvat’s trips or Magar’s secretive dealings in his trade commissions. I still feel he’s withholding information from us.”

“I’m more willing to trust Magar,” Taurin said. “It’s Zeroun who needs further investigation.”

They could easily be discussing suspects in a murder. We have a limited number of suspects, most of who know each other and have a secret to hide; an amateur sleuth; and a confined setting. It’s the prescription for a cozy mystery, albeit combined with a “quest” theme in the search for the missing horn. Mystery, adventure, romance and danger—what could be better?

What was my favorite part to write? I loved planning the booby traps in the secret temple and figuring out what was hidden there.

Praise for Keeper of the Rings

“A dark, dangerous hero and imaginative adventures make Keeper of the Rings an entertaining read.” Phoebe Conn, NY Times Bestselling Author

“Keeper is a lot like Indiana Jones and Romancing the Stone. A good mystery, action/adventure, sci‑fi, and romance all rolled into one.” Mary Saums, Author of the Thistle & Twigg Mysteries and the Willi Taft Series.

“Prepare yourself for exotic locales, evildoers galore, and two splendid romances! Ms. Cane’s done it again!” The Paperback Forum

“Fascinating! Nancy Cane combines the elements of science fiction and fantasy into a marvelous love story. Her books capture the imagination with their originality.” The Literary Times

“The spellbinding action gets more terrifying and enthralling as the uniquely different plot thickens. The conclusion is stunning!” Rendezvous

“Intense and fast, Keeper of the Rings has an absorbing and complex plot that expands over and over again. And like ripples in a pond the reverberations are felt throughout the book to the very explosive climax. 4-1/2 stars.” Affaire de Coeur

Buy Now

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Keeper-Rings-Nancy-J-Cohen-ebook/dp/B005C5YXRO
Nook: http://bit.ly/2LfyQF1
Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/book/keeper-of-the-rings/id1412121907
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/keeper-of-the-rings-1
Books2Read.com: https://books2read.com/KeeperoftheRings
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Do you read archaeological thrillers? Or books like The Da Vinci Code? Perhaps you prefer movies like Indiana Jones or Lara Croft? Leave a comment below and you might win a signed first edition print copy of Silver Serenade published by The Wild Rose Press. I’ll announce the winner on Thursday.

Silver Serenade

Silver Serenade Reissue

I’m excited to announce the reissue of Silver Serenade. This science fiction romance was originally published by The Wild Rose Press. My newly revised edition has been updated with added bonus materials.

SilverLarge

A beautiful assassin and a desperate fugitive join forces to catch a terrorist and prevent a war between worlds.

Starship pilot Jace Vernon is forced to flee his home world after being framed for murder. He seeks justice, but a lovely S.I.N. agent gets in his way. Not only does she distract him with her silvery hair and violet eyes, but she counters his every move in the quest to clear his name. As he attempts to sway her to his cause, he doesn’t count on the personal consequences of success.

Rookie assassin Silver Malloy refuses to abort her deadly mission even if it means killing the one man Jace needs alive to prove his innocence. The leader of Tyrone’s Marauders murdered her family and ended her career. She’s dedicated her life to getting revenge, and now she finally has the chance. She won’t let a wanted criminal get in her path. But as Jace’s charms melt the barriers around her heart, she finds her resolve wavering. Can she help him win his case, even if it means failing her assignment and betraying her people?

Best Book 2010 in Romantic SciFi/Fantasy at The Romance Reviews

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Excerpt

The door buzzer sounded, indicating imminent departure. She swallowed, preparing for the gut-wrenching angle of ascent. At the last minute, the man in the black robe jumped from his seat and squeezed out the doors. He’d been so silent, she’d forgotten about him.

She slid over on the bench seat for more space. As the tram tilted into the air and zoomed toward the rooftops, something fell to the floor.

“Oh no, that guy forgot his package.” Silver moved to retrieve it, but she halted at Jace’s sudden intake of breath. She knew at once what he was thinking even before she felt the impact of his fear.

“Stop this thing,” she shouted. The sky tilted outside the windows as they careened to a new heading.

She credited Frok for quick thinking. He leapt up and yanked an overhead pulley. The sudden stop made them crash into each other.

“Quick, open the doors,” Jace urged.

With Frok’s assistance, he forced them wide enough to squeeze through while the tram hovered above a tall building.

“What’s wrong?” Kira asked, glancing at Silver for guidance.

“Bomb.” She couldn’t get another word past her dry throat. Nor could she explain to their newfound friends how she and Jace knew without a doubt they’d been set up. That Elusian had been waiting for them outside the Institute.

Jace stood aside to let the others pass. “We have to jump. Aim for that roof. We should be able to make it. Hurry.”

Silver tapped her utility belt. “I have a tensile line. Let me—” Her words died on her tongue as Jace snatched her and tossed her out the open door.

View the Book Trailer: https://youtu.be/QcX_OfHZg-c

“Get ready for an epic adventure, as vast as the universe in which it is set! With a touching love story, a great blend of humor, action and passion, and a great cast of characters, this is a book that won’t let you go until the very last page.” The Romance Reviews

“Silver Serenade is an exciting, action-packed space adventure with more attention-grabbing twists and turns than a West Virginia highway. I loved it.” Two Lips Reviews

Silver Serenade

Silver Serenade by Nancy J. Cohen
Published by Orange Grove Press

Digital ISBN: 9780997003895
ASIN: B078JVBPMS
Cover design by Robin Ludwig Design Inc. www.gobookcoverdesign.com
Layout by www.formatting4U.com

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GIVEAWAYS

Glam Up for the New Year! January 9 – 29
Glam up for the new year with a crystal pendant from Effy. To celebrate the reissue of Silver Serenade, I have FIVE to give away. ENTER NOW. Color of stone may differ from what is shown in this picture. U.S. Residents only due to postal constraints.

Effy Necklace

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