Guest Post: Nichole Chase, Author of The Dark Betrayal Trilogy

I am very honored to be writing a guest post for 1000+ Books To Read! I want to share a little about the beautiful setting for Mortal Obligation, my YA urban fantasy. What better way to learn about the gorgeous southern city than a mini-tour hosted by Ree, the lead character from my novel? After all, she is a Savannah native!

“Hey, guys. Hop on the trolley, so we can get this show moving. It’s going to be dark soon.” Ree looks up at the sky, a grimace pulling the corners of her mouth down. “We’re going to need to be back before then.” Looking back at the worried looks on the tourists’ faces, she smiles and tries to be a little more upbeat. “Oh, don’t worry. It’s not like you need to be worried about gangs or pickpockets. Well, any more than other tourist cities.”

“Hey, look guys! Over there is my favorite pizza parlor.” Ree points at a building over to the left. “My friends and I hang out there all the time.” Someone asks a question from the back, and Ree’s brow furrows. “What’s that? The last time I went there? Oh, well, the last time I had pizza wasn’t really a good night…. But that isn’t the fault of the restaurant! I mean, the pizza was good. Some of the company, not so much. If you guys go, make sure to get the Hawaiian. It’s my favorite.”

“Okay, moving on! Savannah has a bunch of squares spread throughout the historic district. I’ve heard that they can rival some of the squares in Europe.” She sighs wistfully. “Not that I’ve been to Europe or anything. Hopefully, one day, though.” Everyone looks out the windows to stare at some of the passing greenscape.

“Hey! If you look over there you might see a bench that played an important role in a famous movie. Can you see it? Right there? Technically, that isn’t the same bench because they removed the real one to keep it safe, but it’s just like the original. Anyone feel like a choc-o-late?” Some of the tourists laugh a little at her joke. “By the way, you guys shouldn’t be out here at night. It isn’t safe. There are… things, I mean people, that might try to hurt you. So save the foot tours for the day time, okay? Otherwise, knock yourself out!” 

“The Historic district is full of these gorgeous Row Houses. In fact, that is my friend Paden’s house! See it there, with the iron railing?” Someone laughs, making Ree blush. “Okay, a lot of them have iron railing. You got me.” She watches Paden’s house pass with a wistful smile on her face. “That is one of my favorite places to hang out.”

“How many of you are staying in Savannah overnight? Okay, a bunch of you! Well, I definitely recommend staying in one of the many Bed and Breakfasts. If you’re feeling adventurous, be sure to stay in one of the haunted houses.” Some of the people shift nervously in their seats. “Com’on, people! Savannah is one of the most haunted cities in the United States. You had to of known that!” Ree rolls her eyes at the silence in the trolley. When it became obvious that a lot of the people were really unaware of the rich history of the city, Ree starts pointing out some of the happier places like the Girl Scout founders house. “Savannah has some beautiful, fun places, and for the natives the ghost stories are just part of the entertainment!”

As the trolley nears a large, old cemetery, Ree wraps her arms around her body. “Over there is a colonial cemetery. People say it is haunted, but ghosts aren’t what you need to worry about.” Looking at the people in the car, she drops her arms to her side and leans forward. “Do not -- I repeat, do NOT go anywhere near that cemetery after dark.” Ignoring the startled comments, she turns around and hangs onto the bar that runs through the center of the trolley.  

“Okay, folks. We’re almost back to the City Market. Be sure to check out the pubs, shops, and candy stores. If you’re hungry there are lots of restaurants, including Paula Deen’s Lady and Sons. Don’t forget to try a praline. Those are a specialty here in Savannah.” As the trolley pulls up to a shop some of the tourists point at the large horses attached to a cart and talk about taking a ride. Ree whirls around and looks at them, fear making her face tight. “No! It’s almost dark. Get back to your hotels. It isn’t safe to walk around here at night.” When a large guy snorts, she walks up to the big man, her eyes spiraling with blue flames. “Listen here, Mr. Muscle. Being a big, strong guy only makes you a better snack.” Everyone hurries past Ree as she continues to glare at them all in frustration.

Hmmm. Maybe, Ree wasn’t the best idea for a tour guide. She’s under a lot of stress right now. I think I will ask one of her friends to do the next tour….

Nichole Chase is the author of Mortal Obligation, Book One of The Dark Betrayal Trilogy. Her YA urban fantasy is now available in on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Smashwords. THIS LABOR DAY WEEKEND ONLY Mortal Obligation is available for $.99. CLICK HERE and pick up your copy NOW!

Make sure to check Nichole out on Facebook, her website, her blog and sign up for her newsletter so you don't miss any news on The Dark Betrayal Trilogy!