Tour Stop Review: Behind His Eyes - Consequences by Aleatha Romig + Interview + Giveaways!

Behind His Eyes - Consequences
by Aleatha Romig
Romig Works

Publication Date:
January 14, 2014

BEHIND HIS EYES – CONSEQUENCES is a reading companion, by New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Aleatha Romig, recommended to be read after completing all of the CONSEQUENCES SERIES: Consequences, Truth, and Convicted. It is not a standalone book and should not be read as such.

This companion was written to explore the thoughts and motivations of Anthony Rawlings, the man behind the consequences. It was not intended as a total rewrite of Consequences, but meant to enhance the reader’s understanding. BHE-Consequences contains significant scenes from the novel Consequences, as experienced from Anthony’s point of view. It also contains never before read, behind the scenes information, as well as, a glossary of the characters and a timeline devoted to the events within Consequences.

BEHIND HIS EYES - CONSEQUENCES is a dark journey into the mind of the man who believes that he controls everything and controls nothing. Because there is more to learn about a man who:

 Once upon a time, signed a napkin that he knew was a contract. As an esteemed businessman, he forgot one very important rule—he forgot to read the fine print. It wasn’t an acquisition to own another person as he’d previously assumed. It was an agreement to acquire a soul.
—Aleatha Romig CONVICTED

It was a long and painful acquisition—especially from Behind His Eyes! 

Purchase: Amazon

Rating: ★★★★½ - Amazing

My review of Convicted, the 3rd book in the Consequences Series can be found HERE.
This book is a reading companion therefore expect possible spoilers for the Consequences Series.

I, along with a lot of other readers, HATED Tony in Consequences. I know most of them changed their minds about him in Truth and even though I felt bad for him by the end of it, I still couldn't forgive him for what he's done to Claire. I was so upset when Claire went back to him because I didn't believe that he's changed. I also couldn't accept the fact that he's never going to pay for his sins. Just because Claire's forgiven and accepted him again, doesn't mean he could just get away with what he did scot free!

But I finally made peace with Tony in Convicted. Through his POV I've seen guilt and regret for what he has done. He was also willing to pay for his crimes and I've seen how he has finally accepted Claire as his equal, not just a puppet he was bent on destroying.

After reading Behind His Eyes - Consequence, I am now back to hating Tony. I can't decide if I want to torture him by kicking him continuously in the balls or by cutting them off so I can feed it to my sister's cat. I realized that I only enjoy revenge stories when the person is actually guilty. Claire was innocent and her only fault is her bloodline--something she has no control over. That didn't matter to Tony though because in his (and Catherine's) screwed up mind she, along with the others, deserve to suffer for the actions of their grandfathers'. Actions, I might add, that they did because they were only doing their job. So really, this all started because of one man's delusion that these people, who are beneath him, have no right to bring him down and they, as well as their heirs, therefore shall pay.

I don't really like reading about the same story again even if its from a different POV. BHE - Consequences is different though. I like that it only highlights important events that happened in Consequences and I must say, reliving those moments again, but this time through Tony's eyes, was extremely difficult. He was fucking evil, no doubt about it. In here I saw how truly close to being psychotic he was. Like his grandfather, he thought because he had money and power he can manipulate everything and anyone. He was also a man obsessed. In his psychotic, delusional mind he believed that he had the right to do whatever he wanted with Claire...and he did. He has kidnapped and physically, sexually and mentally abused her all the while thinking she deserved it because she had to pay a debt. And because he didn't want to let her go, he's somehow convinced himself that what he's actually doing is for the betterment of Claire, that he's only making a better version of his obsession.

"Months ago, he's taken a strong woman and refined her. Tony supposed it was like the process with gold, where excessive heat removed impurities. In his process, he'd taken Claire into the fire and come away with the perfect companion - wife? Without planning to do so, he and Catherine had created the perfect Mrs. Rawlings."

What. A. Load. Of. Crock. Rot in hell, Tony, rot in hell.

So yeah, this book made me really, really angry, but in a very good way. It's like all my feelings in Consequences got multiplied ten times and I honestly wouldn't have it any other way. I appreciate that Ms. Romig didn't romanticize Tony's POV because it wouldn't be believable if it is. Simply put, Tony was a bad man and I've accepted that of him. Reading BHE - Consequences only solidified the fact that I did have the right to hate him in Consequences because it was only Claire that changed him for the better. Without her, he would probably end up as psychotic and mentally unstable as Catherine. Claire's growth and inner strength in Truth made Tony what we know of him now. That's why I cannot wait for BHE - Truth. Tony was redeemed for me in Convicted, but I'm really excited to read the turning point of his character in BHE - Truth because I still didn't trust him then. I want to experience, through his eyes, when he realized that he actually wants and love the real Claire, not the puppet he believed he refined.

Behind His Eyes - Consequences is a must read if you are a fan of Tony and Claire's relationship. It is definitely a great addition to the Consequences Series. I am now impatiently waiting for both Behind His Eyes - Truth and Behind His Eyes - Convicted. March cannot come fast enough!

An advance readers copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

The Consequences Series

GOODREADS | AMAZON | B&N | SMASHWORDS | KOBO

** One on One with Aleatha Romig **

Is this just a rewrite of Consequences from Tony’s POV?

No. BEHIND HIS EYES CONSEQUENCES is NOT a rewrite. It is a “reading companion”.  I went through CONSEQUENCES and with the help of my betas; we decided upon significant scenes that if told from Tony’s POV would enlighten readers. I also added “behind the scenes” scenes to again enlighten readers.

CONSEQUENCES was told mostly from Claire’s POV. Therefore, conversations and things happened outside of her observation. This companion allows readers to witness some of these scenes.

Was it difficult to write Tony’s POV?

It was! I tried to start this book multiple times. Each time I’d get so mad at him that I’d have to stop writing. (Don’t let that scare you) My anger was directed at his indifference more than his behavior. Then, one day I realized my problem. It was Claire. She’d lived in my head for almost three years. I knew what she experienced and how she felt. I couldn’t be Tony with Claire there. Once I realized that and evicted Claire (no exorcism was necessary—lol) I let Tony take over. From what I’ve heard...it was effective. You’ll have to let me know.

Tell us more about BEHIND HIS EYES - TRUTH and BEHIND HIS EYES - CONVICTED.

I am currently working on BEHIND HIS EYES - TRUTH. It will be similar to BHE CONSEQUENCES since we weren’t privileged enough to have very much of Tony’s POV in TRUTH.  It begins where TRUTH begins, with Claire’s unorthodoxed release from prison.

BEHIND HIS EYES - CONVICTED will be different. Readers are given more of Tony’s POV in CONVICTED. I didn’t want to rehash what readers already knew. Therefore, BEHIND HIS EYES - CONVICTED will be “The Missing Years.”  It will begin at a tragic event that happens in CONVICTED and give the readers an insight into the two years that are only alluded to in CONVICTED.  I haven’t started writing that one yet, but I’m very excited. It will be more of a standalone story. Of course, it wouldn’t make sense if you hadn’t read the series.

What are your plans after you release all of the BEHIND HIS EYES reading companions?

I want to write a new series. I don’t know for sure if it will be two books or more. I want to develop a relationship with new characters and create new twists and turns. I have some notes and some ideas, but I’ll be honest, Anthony Rawlings is not an easy character to let go. However, I believe it is time.

I’ve been asked if I’ll ever write more about them. My answer is “I don’t know.” I can’t say NEVER, but I believe it is time to move on.

About the Author

Aleatha Romig is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, who has been voted #1 "New Author to Read" on Goodreads, July 2012 - Present!

Aleatha has lived most of her life in Indiana, growing-up in Mishawaka, graduating from Indiana University, and currently living south of Indianapolis. Together with her high-school sweetheart and husband of twenty seven years, they've raised three children. Before she became a full-time author, she worked days as a dental hygienist and spent her nights writing. Now, when she’s not imagining mind-blowing twists and turns, she likes to spend her time with her family and friends. Her pastimes include exercising, reading, and creating heroes/ anti-heroes who haunt your dreams!

Aleatha enjoys traveling, especially when there is a beach involved. In 2011 she had the opportunity to visit Sydney, Australia to visit her daughter studying at the University of Wollongong. Her dream is to travel to places in her novels and around the world.

CONSEQUENCES, her first novel, was released August 2011 by Xlibris Publishing. Then in October of 2012, Ms. Romig re-released CONSEQUENCES as an indie author. TRUTH, the sequel, was released October 30, 2012, and CONVICTED, the final installment of the Consequences Series, was released October 8, 2013! She is now releasing the CONSEQUENCES READING COMPANIONS: BEHIND HIS EYES – A trilogy of companions, from Anthony Rawlings’ POV.

Aleatha is a “Published Author’s Network” member of the Romance Writers of America and represented by Danielle Egan-Miller of Brown and Miller Literary Associates.

** Giveaways **

a Rafflecopter giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Tour Stop: Branded Spotlight + Giveaway!

Branded (Sinners #1)
by Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicicki
Release Date: 06/28/13
252 pages

Summary from Goodreads: 
Fifty years ago the Commander came into power and murdered all who opposed him. In his warped mind, the seven deadly sins were the downfall of society. He created the Hole where sinners are branded according to their sins and might survive a few years. At best.
Now LUST wraps around my neck like blue fingers strangling me. I’ve been accused of a crime I didn’t commit and now the Hole is my new home.

Darkness. Death. Violence. Pain.

Now every day is a fight for survival. But I won’t die. I won’t let them win.

The Hole can’t keep me. The Hole can’t break me.
I am more than my brand. I’m a fighter.
My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story.

Available from:

 

About the Authors
Abi and Missy met in the summer of 1999 at college orientation and have been best friends ever since. After college, they added jobs, husbands and kids to their lives, but they still found time for their friendship. Instead of hanging out on weekends, they went to dinner once a month and reviewed books. What started out as an enjoyable hobby has now become an incredible adventure.

     

*** GIVEAWAY ***

20 ebooks of Branded (mobi) Open Internationally

5 signed print copies and picture of Cole (US only)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Tour Hosted by:

Read More

Tour Stop: Fallen Excerpt

Title: Fallen
Author: Laury Falter
Series: Guardian Trilogy
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Audeamus LLC
Release Date: April 1 2009
Editions/Formats Available In: eBook & Print

Blurb/Synopsis: 
Fallen - the first book in the bestselling Guardian Trilogy... Maggie is unaware of the terrifying fate that awaits her. It isn't until she lands in New Orleans for a full year at a private high school and her unknown enemies find her does she realize that her life is in danger. As a mystifying stranger repeatedly intervenes and blocks the attempts on her life, she begins to learn that there is more to him than his need to protect her and that he may be the key to understanding why her enemies have just now arrived.

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords

+ Excerpt +

“So you’re warning me away from you?” I was appalled. “Then why are you doing this…guarding me at all? Why the torment? Why watch over me when you know that…that we should be more?” I felt on the verge of tears, which amazed me. How could pain be so sharp in the afterlife? “Answer me, Eran. Why?”

He sighed. “Because it is my job.”

I gasped, more offended than I’d ever been. “I’m a job to you?” I stared at him and waited for his head to rise but he refused to look at me.

“Yes,” he said weakly, defeated. His beautiful, rugged voice released as a whimper and the pain inside me grew. “You are just a job.”

I didn’t think it was possible but the emptiness I’d felt with Eran being gone those many weeks held no comparison to the magnitude of what I was experiencing right now.

I felt as if I had been gutted.

“No…” I shook my head. “I don’t believe you because you see, Eran, I can feel your emotions run through me. Whether you want to admit them or not, I know how you feel about me.”

Stunned, his head jerked up, his brilliant blue-green eyes drilling into mine. “You feel me too? How can that be?”

“I don’t know. But I do know that I feel in you the same emotions I have.”

He groaned and turned away. “That’s not possible…” he muttered, pausing. When he spoke again his voice was strained, determined. I drew in a breath as the intensity of these emotions ran through me.
“It doesn’t matter. I won’t let this happen. This will not happen…I will not let us be together.”

“Because you are my guardian? Then let me make it easy on us…You’re fired.”

“It doesn’t work that way, Magdalene,” he said, quieter but still resolute.

“I didn’t want you to watch over me, Eran. I never asked for it.”

As if he’d become an entirely new person, his reply was flat and detached. “You’re a messenger. You require a guardian. It’s as simple as that.”

“Then we’ve just solved the issue, didn’t we?” I said causing him to finally look up. “This will be my last message. It’s from me to you…goodbye Eran.”

Turning swiftly, I walked away just before the tears came.

About the Author

Laury Falter is a bestselling author of young adult romantic suspense and urban fantasy. She has three series out: the Guardian Trilogy, the Residue Series, and the Apocalypse Chronicles.

Read More

All Hallows Eve Indies Guest Post: Decoding Evil Villains by Sarah J. Pepper + Giveaway!

Decoding Evil Villains
by Sarah J. Pepper

We LOVE to hate them.... And hate to love them. There is no doubt that the bad guys have a special place in our hearts for the sexy evil villians. They might have stolen our hearts too many times to count. But why? Why do we root and cheer for James Franco in Spider-Man 3 when we should be hoping for Spider Man to save the day? A geek and a pair of glasses? Please. Does he get your blood  pumping? I think you’d have to poke me with a stick just to see if I’m still alive.

James Franco in Spider-Man 3

My first thought is because they act on the evil impulses and thoughts--like punching our “Bill Lumberg” (Office Space) of a boss in the throat.  Come on. We've all *thought* about it.

Or, perhaps it’s their power or confidence they put off. People often hold back in life because they are scared of being made fun of or failing. Ever try eating alone at a restaurant or going to a movie by yourself and not feel like a leper by the end of it? I have and manage just fine, but I’m accompanied by an entourage of voices in my head. (Joking. Joking) Villians radiating confidence. Perhaps we like that about them because we admire that in others.


 Then there is the possibility that bad boys just wear leather better. What is it about leather that makes us *wiping drool off my chin* lose all ability to think straight? Intelligent woman stop speaking in the sight of Mr. So Wrong? Don’t believe me? Picture Eric Northman (yes, the blood sucking vamp that has a six-pack, chiseled body of a Greek God, a “man” that could protect me from the supernatural, and eyes that see into my soul).




 It’s the possibility of the unknown. The guy you bring home to meet your folks and marry is someone you trust, can predict, an is your best friend. There is little you don’t know about him…. Bad boys are anything but trustworthy, making their kept promises so memorable. They are unpredictable. Unpredictability can be good and bad…. *cough* especially in bed. It’s exciting and thrilling to not know what’s around the next turn. But when the boogie monster is around the next corner, who do you want: Mr. Hubby Fantastica or Christian Bale from the American Psycho?

Bad boys just do it better. *clearing throat* So if you are looking for a new book boyfriend” with a twisted dark side, I hope you enjoy the Mad Hatter from my latest novel, “Death of the Mad Hatter.”

Coming November 29th!

Death of the Mad Hatter

by Sarah J. Pepper

Publication Date:

November 29, 2013

The Jack prophesied: If the king loses his head, then the Queen with a Bleeding Heart would rule the Red Court until Time ceased to move forward. When a second carried on for infinity, every creature in Wonderland would tip their Hat to the misfit girl with a Boy’s name (or was it a boy with a Girl’s name?) who’d end the Reign of Terror. However, it all hinged on the One-Eyed Hare being able to convince an uninspirable Heir that the impossible was indeed possible—like stopping time—and that Love was worth a Beheading.

Heads would Roll…
Hearts would Break…
In the end, would it matter who Reigned?

AMIR'S 4.5 STAR REVIEW

About Sarah J. Pepper

I specialize in dark, paranormal romance – think “happy ever after” but with a twisted, dark chocolate center. Real-life romance isn’t only filled with hugs, kisses, unicorns, and rainbows. True-love can be more thoroughly described in times of darkness and tribulation. It’s in those harsh moments where you see what a person is truly capable of – both the good and bad. Sometimes prince-charming isn’t always on time, and the glass slipper is a little snug. However, it doesn’t mean Charming is not Mr. Right, and who says every shoe is the perfect fit?

"Warning: Addictive passion erupts from her mouthwatering descriptions" - recent review.

Sarah J. Pepper lives in South Dakota with her real-life prince charming. At a young age, she fell for paranormal books and now incorporates that genre with romance that thrives in the hearts of us all. When she’s not storytelling, she’s most likely biking, hoarding chocolate, or taking a bubble bath.

STALK HER AT:

 WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS

Giveaways!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Click poster for a chance to win a Kindle Fire and more!

This guest post is part of the All Hallows Eve Indies Blog Tour:

Click on poster for the FULL Tour Schedule

Read More

Tour Stop Review: Convicted by Aleatha Romig + Giveaway!

Convicted
Aleatha Romig

Publication Date:
October 8, 2013

There were still lessons to learn and consequences for the truth!

When Claire Nichols met Anthony Rawlings, she didn’t know they had a past, or that he had plans for her future. Over time, the role of teacher changed—games became reality—and domination turned to desire. Despite an insurmountable history, Claire and Tony found their way back to one another.

Just when they seemed to have it all—love, respect, and the promise of a family—the game master exposed the truth. Claire’s world once again spun out of control. Unwilling to allow her child to suffer the consequences of an old vendetta, Claire fled...

At one time, Claire was held captive in an opulent mansion—then her incarceration was a cell inside a state penitentiary. Was her new prison—a tropical island—truly less lonely? Perhaps that was the game master’s plan, all along?

Who will save Claire from her oldest nightmare and her newest reality? Will it be Tony? Can he forgive her for leaving him—again? Harry? Will he utilize previously unknown connections to save the woman who infiltrates his thoughts? Maybe Phil? Will his devotion in keeping Claire and her child safe be rewarded?

As the cards are played—sins of the past, innocent victims, and truths are revealed. With compartmentalization no longer an option, is the reality too much? Could there be an even worse isolation?

With the game master dealing from a stacked deck, can this new high-stakes game possibly be won?

When it’s all over and their cards are on the table—SOME will discover their bets were too high—they have nothing left to lose—ALL will learn the crucial lesson—the most important rule—there are CONSEQUENCES for the TRUTH!

Aleatha Romig’s CONVICTED!

Introduction

For those of you who are not familiar with the the series, the story revolves mostly around Claire Nichols and her relationship with Anthony Rawlings, the man who kidnapped and abused her for the sake of revenge. It is highly recommended to read the books in order, because this series is so rich with intrigue and deceit that spans generations, and the past is told throughout the first two books.

In Consequences, we saw how it all began. Claire woke up a prisoner in a strange room, with no idea how she got there. In the book, her relationship with Tony was Stockholm Syndrome at its finest. I seriously wanted to shake Claire so many times for believing herself to be in love with her captor, thus letting her multiple chances to escape slip by.

In Truth, Claire is finally a free woman and she is determined to uncover the truth of the past...but Tony is also determined to get Claire back. I was really disappointed when Claire went back to him willingly. I didn't trust Tony and I was sure he was still planning something sinister for Claire. Why would you want to go back to the man who caused you so much sorrow? Why Claire? 

But at the end of Truth, I actually felt a little bad for Tony. He did a lot of horrible things that he should pay for but he shouldn't be blamed for something that he didn't do; same as when Claire was being wrongfully charged and convicted for Tony's attempted murder in Consequences. I understand Claire's decision to leave again but it's frustrating how she was manipulated by someone she trusted, yet again.

Rating: ★★★★ - Love It!

Theirs was a long complicated story with a monster and a knight. What made their story unique was that these two players were the same person.

Reviewing a book like this one is tough. I would honestly be devastated if I ruined another reader's enjoyment because I gave the book's secrets away. This is better to uncover on your own, no matter how difficult and heartbreaking the journey. I decided to just focus on what I felt while reading the book rather than give out actual details... because seriously, this book is just brimming with revelations.

We can't rewrite history. If we could, our pen would probably run out of ink.

Reading Convicted, I realized that this bid for vengeance could've been put to rest if Tony just let go of the past but I understand that with certain (evil) people by his side, fueling his anger for all those years, he really didn't stand a chance. It also got to me how looks can be so deceiving, a sweet and gentle face can mask the sickest minds and because of that, throughout the whole book, I did not trust anyone.

People that I liked and trusted in Consequences and Truth became the people with the biggest secrets to hide. I was suspicious of everyone's intentions for Claire, it didn't matter if they were family or a close friend, I was that paranoid. If I have to mention one character that seriously disappointed me, it was Harry. I was rooting for him and Claire to be together because he seemed to be the type of person Claire should be with after the horrors that she experienced, but even he had his reasons for trying to be close to her in the first place. It doesn't help that some actions he ended up doing in this book were just plain douchey.

I think this book is less of a mind f*uck than the first two books in the series but that doesn't mean that there are only a few secrets to unravel. With cards already on the table from the get-go and because there are two timelines to unravel, getting to the revelations is just as nail-biting. I have to admit, there were a few times that I actually had to stop reading and give myself a breather... not because I was bored (far from it), but because it was just too heartbreaking to go on knowing what would eventually happen.

I was satisfied with Tony's character development. I never really considered their relationship as romance because of how twisted it was, but in this book, I actually believed that what they felt for each other was love, and not some sort of dark, twisted obsession. From being the captor and the captive they finally became equals, their relationship finally finding that balance that they needed. Tony didn't feel like a ticking time bomb in here, whereas in the first two books I was always preparing myself, waiting for the time when he would snap and strike at anyone near and dear to Claire. Both finally found their own place in the relationship and I'm glad that although they let go of the past, they didn't try to forget it happened.

I know from my review it sounds that their relationship is blissfully headed to that nice HEA ending but I just have to remind everyone that there are still two timelines to uncover... and in the world created by Ms. Romig, we know that nothing is what it seems and happy ever after is just really hard to come by. Will they end up there? I'll leave you to find out for yourselves.

"Our lives are so fucked up!"
"You certainly do know how to sum it up!"

An ARC copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

* To learn more about the characters in the Consequences Series, check out Convicted's Character Interview.

** This is a month long tour. Check out the schedule HERE for more reviews and giveaways.

The Consequences Series

GOODREADS | AMAZON | B&N | SMASHWORDS | KOBO

About the Author

Aleatha Romig is a bestselling author, who has been voted #1 "New Author to Read" on Goodreads July 2012 - Present! She was also #9 most followed author on Goodreads - July / August 3013.

Aleatha has lived most of her life in Indiana growing-up in Mishawaka, graduating from Indiana University, and currently living south of Indianapolis. Together with her high-school sweetheart and husband of twenty six years, they've raised three children. Before she became a full-time author, she worked days as a dental hygienist and spent her nights writing. Now, when she’s not imagining mind-blowing twists and turns, she likes to spend her time with her family and friends. Her pastimes include exercising, reading and creating heros/ anti-heros who haunt your dreams!

Aleatha enjoys traveling, especially when there is a beach involved. In 2011 she had the opportunity to visit Sydney, Australia to visit her daughter studying at the University of Wollongong. Her dream is to travel to places in her novels and around the world.

CONSEQUENCES, her first novel, was released August 2011 by Xlibris Publishing. October 2012 Ms. Romig rereleased CONSEQUENCES as an Indie author. TRUTH, the sequel, was released October 30, 2012 and CONVICTED, the final installment of the Consequences Series, is scheduled for release in October of 2013!

Aleatha is a “Published Author’s Network” member of the Romance Writers of America and represented by Danielle Egan-Miller of Brown and Miller Literary Associates.

WEBSITE | GOODREADS | FACEBOOK | TWITTER

Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Tour Stop: Convicted Character Interviews

Caution: These Character interviews contain spoilers, if you have NOT read Consequences and Truth.

***

A Series of Interviews in response to my 2011 Article about Anthony and Claire Rawlings which appeared in Vanity Fair

By: Anne Robinson

I met with Anthony and Claire Rawlings in their home for a Vanity Fair interview in February of 2011. On that cool February morning, I met with who appeared to be a loving newlywed couple.

Flash forward...now it’s October of 2013, and the world is discovering that all was not as it appeared. My Life As It Didn’t Appear by Meredith Banks, (which was originally scheduled to be released by Parrott Publishing on October 1 but has been delayed again due to legal battles) will eventually hit the market. The release is imminent and the snippet alone has revealed a peek into the depth of misinformation in my original interview!  

My goal with these interviews is to attempt to set the record straight.

This time I’m not working with Mr. Rawlings or Ms. Nichols. Why? Because they are both missing!

Ms. Nichols was last seen September 4, and Mr. Rawlings was reportedly in a plane that made an emergency landing on September 21. He has not been seen or heard from since.

Ladies and Gentlemen, this is more involved than a soap opera.  Over the next few days, I will be releasing my “unauthorized” interviews with friends, family, and employees of these two individuals and hopefully setting the record straight.

Please join me in learning the real story...what were these two individuals hiding from me AND from you in 2011?

CATHERINE/ERIC

Today we planned to speak with Catherine London and Eric Hensley. They are both longtime trusted employees of Anthony Rawlings.  As personal employees, they also worked for Claire Nichols, while she and Anthony were married. They would undoubtedly be able to give us insight into the real life of Claire and Anthony.

Unfortunately, our efforts were met with a resounding “no.”  Apparently, all of the people employed by Mr. Rawlings’ estate have signed strict “Do Not Disclose” clauses. The only information we could gather was the confirmation of the last date Mr. Rawlings was on the estate, September 20.

EMILY VANDERSOL

Instead, we proceeded with our interview of Emily Vandersol, sister of Claire Nichols. Mrs. Vandersol was very anxious to speak with us. She has been very busy speaking with each and every news outlet that will listen.

Please join me in welcoming Mrs. Emily Vandersol.

Emily, may I call you that.

Yes, please.

Emily, you are visibly distraught over your sister’s disappearance. Can you please tell us about the last time you saw her.

I saw Claire about a month ago. She came to visit my husband and me in Indiana.

Did she come alone?

She was with a body guard. That was what she said, but my husband and I knew the truth.

Mr. Rawlings didn’t come with her?

No! We aren’t, I mean weren’t exactly on speaking terms with him.

Isn’t it true that someone hurt her in California?

Yes, and that’s why she said she had a body guard. I believe it was because Anthony Rawlings didn’t trust her. The man is incredibly controlling; I’m sure this “body guard” was the only way Claire was allowed to visit us—her own, and only, family!

So, you don’t believe this man was hired for her protection.

I believe he was a spy, reporting every move that Claire made.

Why do you think that?

It was how he treated her when they were married. Well, kind of.

What do you mean, kind of?

When they were married, Claire never would have been allowed to travel to Indiana alone, or with a body guard.

You keep using the world “allow.” Do you believe that Mr. Rawlings truly had that kind of control?

I do!

Emily, have you seen what’s in the book that’s about to be released?

I haven’t seen Meredith Bank’s words, but I know, what’s in the book. I know, because my sister told me. It’s all true.

If it truly contains some of the maltreatment that I’ve heard, why would Claire go back to Anthony Rawlings? Why would she move back in with him?

I don’t know. I can’t explain it. Sometimes I think she isn’t thinking clearly.

Did you ever witness the things Claire told you about?

No. Whenever we were all together they both put on a perfect performance; however, things always seemed odd, like there was more. My husband even tried to question her about it before the wedding. Claire became upset by his questions and asked me to ask him to be nice. For Claire, we were.

Do you believe Mr. Rawlings was involved in your sister’s disappearance?

Without a doubt! I know he was. Before she decided to move back here, she told me specifically that he “took” her, “kidnapped” her, the first time, and she was afraid he may do it again. I promised her that I would have the police knock down his door if she ever disappeared again. I did. As soon as I hung up the phone from Anthony, I called the Iowa City police. They did nothing! Oh, they went to his house and asked a few questions, but you know how it is with people with money—multiply that by a billion! No one would touch him; he owns that whole town, probably the state and country! Now, he’s missing, too. I just know it’s related. I keep praying that she’s safe, but I fear she isn’t. I’m afraid that she finally realized what a mistake it was to go back to him, and he lost it. I have begged for the police to take dogs out to that estate and sniff around. What if my sister is buried out there somewhere? What if we never know?

Mrs. Vandersol ended the interview by asking us to publish the information for the missing person’s hotline. There is also a reward set up by Anthony Rawlings for information leading to Claire’s safe return.  If you have any information please contact the numbers below.

HARRISON BALDWIN

Thank you for talking with us, Mr. Baldwin

Please, I’m Harry, and I’m happy to do anything to help find Claire.

Harry, please tell us about your relationship with Claire Nichols.

I met Claire when she came to live with my sister. We became friends. I haven’t spoken with her since she moved back to Iowa.

I’d love to clarify a few of your comments...can you define “friends”? I believe I’ve seen more than one picture of the two of you together while she lived in California. I think I even read that the two of you were living together?

Claire lived with my sister Amber. We all live in the same condominium building; however, we never lived together in the same unit.

There was a time when Claire couldn’t walk to the curb without someone taking her picture. Yes, we ate at local restaurants and were often photographed.  She was a fun person to be around, and we enjoyed one another’s company—friends.

And yet, as friends, you haven’t spoken in months?

My number hasn’t changed.

All right—enough said. Let’s discuss her past. Are you familiar with the book that is about to be published.

I haven’t seen it, but I’ve heard about it.

Do you believe the information is true?

Since I haven’t seen it, I’m not sure. I know that her first marriage had issues.

“Issues”? Do you believe that Anthony Rawlings was abusive?

I only know what I’ve been told. With that information, I worry about Claire now. I’m concerned for her safety.

Ms. Nichol’s family seems to believe that Mr. Rawlings’ disappearance is connected to Claire’s. Do you agree?

I don’t want to believe that Claire would take off and scare her family after all they’ve been through. So, if she didn’t leave of her own free will, then I believe foul-play could be involved. It does seem suspicious that he too is missing.

How did Claire end up hospitalized before she moved back to Iowa?

She was attacked by a man. Security saved her before she was too badly hurt.

I believe I read that you were the hero who saved her.

I got to her only seconds before security. It was the guard who shot and killed the perpetrator.

Ms. Vandersol mentioned that Claire was pregnant. Do you know if that’s true?

I would assume that if anyone would know the truth about that, it would be Claire’s sister.

So, you’re confirming that she’s pregnant.

I’m confirming that she is missing and we need to do anything possible to assure that she’s safe. If what Emily says is also true, then we should all be more concerned, not just for Claire, but for her child.

Do you truly believe that Mr. Rawlings would harm his child?

I’m not sure what Mr. Rawlings is capable of doing. Thank you for keeping Claire in the spotlight. I must be going.

One last question, Harrison, are you seeing anyone new?

New? No, I’m not.

Thank you. (I almost asked him if he wanted to see anyone, and then I remembered I’m married!)

COURTNEY SIMMONS

Courtney Simmons agreed to a brief telephone interview. She lives in Iowa City, near the Rawlings estate, and is admittedly a good friend of both Claire and Anthony.

Thank you for speaking to us today.

I’m concerned about my friend. If this will help find her, I’m willing to talk.

Why are you concerned?

Because she’s missing.

Do you feel that Anthony Rawlings could be responsible for her disappearance?

I do not. Right after Claire’s disappearance, my husband and I spent a lot of time with Anthony. He was inconsolably distraught. You may have noticed, he’s also promised a large reward to information leading to Claire’s safe return.

Mrs. Simmons, you spent a great deal of time with Claire before, during, and after she was married to Anthony Rawlings, isn’t that true?

I did.

What is your opinion regarding the impending publication of Meredith Bank’s book, My Life As It Didn’t Appear?

I think it is a travesty. I know, from Claire, that she did not want the book published.  She even went directly to the author and asked that publication be stopped.

Why do you believe she wanted publication stopped?

Claire was, I mean is, not comfortable with all of the attention that surrounds Anthony. She didn’t want it or like it. The press has not been kind to her.

I noticed that you didn’t say that she wanted it stopped because the information was false.

I haven’t read the book. I don’t know if it’s false or merely embellished. From the media ruckus that’s going on, you’d think there was no other news occurring. I wish they would spend more time looking for Claire than gossiping about her.  That is why I agreed to this interview.

For the record, Claire Nichols is a beautiful, kind, loving person. She needs to be found and brought home safe. She does not need you, Meredith Banks, or anyone else’s disparaging remarks that are tarnishing her reputation.

Isn’t it true that your husband is employed by Rawlings Industries?

It is.

So, wouldn’t it also be true that if you were to confirm the information in Meredith’s book that your husband’s job may be at risk?

Ms. Robinson, I am speaking to you to help my friend. Do NOT turn it around to mean anything more! Good day.

Thank you.

MEREDITH BANKS

It is a great honor to have the opportunity to speak one on one with Meredith Banks, the author of the soon to be released My Life As It Didn’t Appear –Memoir of Mrs. Anthony Rawlings.

Meredith, this must be a very busy time for you.

It has been wild.

Well, everyone is talking about your book! And I must admit, I feel duped!

I’m sorry?

Your book sounds like it will null-in-void my exclusive article from 2011.

If it makes you feel any better, your article is mentioned in my book.

Hmmm, yes, I guess that does make me feel a little better. Hasn’t your career been primarily in journalism?

Yes.

So, what made you decide to write a book?

Originally, when Claire and I began talking about her story, we planned on an article. Then it was a series of articles. Once I realized the magnitude of her information and the depth of her story, a book made more sense.

I believe I read that you received a handsome advance. Are you at all concerned that the book may be caught in legal battles for so long that no one will care to read it?

I would actually like to return my advance and stop publication.

Why?

Claire entrusted me with her story for one reason—we’re friends. She came to me about a month ago and asked me to bury the book forever. I would like that to happen.

I don’t think the world wants you to do that. People are very excited about what you have to say.

Before we began discussing her past, we made a legally binding agreement. In that agreement, it specifically states that if anything were to happen to Claire or others, whom she listed, the book will go into publication. Since she has disappeared, that clause has been brought to light. Parrott Publishing is ready to release, as soon as the courts put a stop to the Rawlings attorneys’ grandstanding.

Do you believe in the accuracy of your work?

I do.

Could it be possible that Claire Nichols was lying to you? Perhaps to get back at her rich ex-husband who left her penniless?

It could be possible; however, I feel unlikely. Claire was eloquent and brave as she relayed the history of her past relationship with Mr. Rawlings. I don’t believe she could be that good of a liar.

What do you want to accomplish with this kind of a tell-all book?

Like I said, I’d like to stop its publication. That doesn’t seem to be possible; therefore, I hope to accomplish bringing the attention of the world on my friend who’s now missing. I hope that as the world reads about her difficult past, they help to bring her home.

Home?

Do you believe after all that she told you, that she wanted to be back in Iowa with Mr. Rawlings?

I do. When she came to see me last month, Claire was the happiest I’ve ever seen her. Despite their past, they’d reached a new level of togetherness.

I don’t mean to be argumentative, but could it have all been an act? I mean, could this all have been a ruse to trick Mr. Rawlings into allowing her back into his life to then publicly disgrace him—as he’d done to her?

I don’t believe so.

But, it could?

No. I believe every word I wrote and I believe that they had overcome.

And, as long as she is missing, we will never know.

Then, I hope as your readers read this interview, they take the time to say a prayer for Claire’s safe return.

Thank you, Meredith. Good luck with your book.

Ms. Robinson, I’m hoping for no publication. Luck is not what I need.

The Consequences Series

Read More