SIZZLING RELEASES!

Sloane Wolf by Margay Leah Justice

2011-11-25T12:08:00.000-08:00

Title: Sloane Wolf

Author: Margay Leah Justice

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Release Date: October 28, 2011

Publisher: Muse It Up Publishing

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Genre: Paranormal Romance

Blurb: For more than a hundred and fifty years, the gray wolf has failed to roam the hills of Massachusetts, leading to the belief that they are extinct. But with a spattering of sightings across the Berkshires, the legend of the gray wolf comes to fruition. The product of that legend, Micah Sloane will go to great lengths to protect his kind from the threat of outsiders, who seek to exploit the legend for their own interests. One thing he didn’t count on, however, was finding his soul mate in the company of such men.

From the first time she predicted a stranger’s imminent death when she was little more than a child, Shiloh Beck knew she was different. Wishing to cultivate her gift, her parents made the fateful decision to enroll her in a private school for paranormally gifted children. Unbeknownst to them, the school was just a front for a research facility simply called the Institute, whose secret board members weaned gifted children from their families to exploit their gifts. Shiloh has spent the better part of her life trying to escape the Institute and reunite with the family she was told had abandoned her.

From their first meeting, Micah and Shiloh share a connection that goes beyond the normal to bond them in a way that love alone cannot. But before they can build a life together, they must deal with the fall-out when the legend of the wolves collides with the men behind the Institute.

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, Margay Leah Justice. I’m so pleased you could join me today. What is your Sizzling Release?

Thank you for having me! My Sizzling Release is a paranormal romance entitled Sloane Wolf.

What is Sloane Wolf all about?

Sloane Wolf is about a reluctant empath who, in her bid to escape from a nefarious Institute, stumbles into a world of legends and a family of shape shifters that she never knew existed. Much to her chagrin, she soon discovers that her fate is entangled with theirs, that she is a part of this legend.

That sounds fascinating. How did you come up with the idea?

It was a combination of things, actually. I was looking for an idea for a contest entry with a wolf theme and I was inspired by a movie that was popular at the time. But the part about the legend of the wolves came from an article I read in a local paper about a sighting of a wolf in Massachusetts – which hadn’t happened in something like 150 years as settlers had driven them out of the state. After reading that, I thought, Hmm, this has some potential. And the psychic part came when I was watching one of many shows with that theme and I wondered what would it be like if a psychic kid was put into an Institute for gifted children – which wasn’t exactly as advertised to her parents? Everything just seemed to flow from there!

I know this is book number one in the series The Wolves of Destiny Falls. Did you begin writing with a series in mind, or did your muse take over?

My muse definitely high-jacked me on this one! It was originally supposed to be a novella (for the contest), but I over-shot that by at least 10,000 words. Little did I know that the scope of the story wouldn’t be contained in one book, let alone a novella!

As a multi-published author, what advice do you have for those just beginning a career as a writer?

Read everything, hone your craft, develop a tough skin, and don’t give up. If you really want to be published, you will make it happen.

Tell the readers about your backlist.

My first book is called Nora’s Soul, which was originally published with Second Wind Publishing, LLC, but I have other plans for it now.

What are you working on now?

Oh, too many things! Of course, there is the next installment of The Wolves of Destiny Falls, a revamp of Nora’s Soul, which is also book one in a series, and my NaNo project, If You Can See Me, which is about a psychic who uncovers the tragic past of Bentley Manor as she’s trying to prove, on request of the owner, that it’s not haunted – but of course it is!

Do you have an evil day job, and if you do, how do you find time to write?

No evil day job! But I do take care of a daughter with disabling physical and psychological issues, so it’s kind of like a day job! I just carve out the time. That’s the secret. If you really want to write, you will find the time to do it. Period.

What is your creative process?

Wait – there’s a process to it? No, seriously, that’s a tough one because sometimes, I’m really disciplined and write out extensive notes and outlines, and other times, I have a general idea when I start out and just fly with it. Sometimes, I feel like the book just writes itself and I’m the one taking dictation!

What does your family and friends think about you being a published author?

I think they’re pretty cool with it. They always knew it was going to happen – I kept telling them since I was a kid, after all!

I’m an October baby and fall is my favorite time of year. What’s yours?

Oh, I love Fall, too! Maybe it’s because I’m a November baby – or just because everything is so pretty in New England this time of year.

What did you do for Thanksgiving?

I shared it with my daughters, one of whom came home from college for the weekend.

Do you have a favorite Thanksgiving memory?

All of my Thanksgiving memories are my favorite because they’re shared with family and I am a family-oriented person through and through.

What is your favorite Thanksgiving Day food?

Besides the turkey, I love the stuffing.

Thank you so much for being here. Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know?

I’d love for them to know where to find me on the Internet. Here are some of my hangouts:

Blogspot

Moonlight, Lace & Mayhem

MySpace

Twitter

Face Book

And before we go, can we get a juicy excerpt from Sloane Wolf?

Of course!

Excerpt:

Shiloh nearly leapt off the sill as his hand touched her knee. It took every ounce of will power she possessed to remain seated and appear undaunted by the gesture. “I am…much better now…thank you,” she said, becoming more unnerved by the presence of his hand by the minute.

Oh, this was not good, not good at all. The longer it remained there, the stronger her impulse to bolt became. Oh, no…

What was it about this man that rattled her so and with so little effort on his part? Sharing the same air with him was enough to send her pulses to the moon—and her mind somewhere else, something new for her. Being this attracted to a man was beyond her realm of experience.

She didn’t know what to do with it—or about it. Should she do anything? Should she pretend indifference? And why wasn’t he so deeply affected? It wasn’t fair.

Still confused, she gave him a weak smile, intent on backing up her previous claim with the gesture. She feared it failed miserably.

When Micah returned her smile and lifted his hand from her knee, she felt precisely one second of relief before he shook her world again by caressing her face in parting. She stumbled back against the frame of the window, her lips parting on a startled breath as a lightning bolt shot through her at his touch. Something flickered in his eyes at her reaction—pain, perhaps—and he retracted his hand, balling it into a fist as he turned away from her, preparing to depart.

In an instant, she realized her mistake. Along with it came the knowledge she couldn’t let him go away angry or upset. After everything he and his family had done for her, she owed him that much. She grabbed him by the shirtfront to stop him, and a shock of awareness shot from her hand directly into his heart, just beneath it. She could see it in the gaze he leveled on her then, could hear it in his breath trapped within his lungs, feel it in the missed beat of his heart.

But then, all sense abandoned her, and her heart skipped a beat as he held her hand firmly to his chest with one of his own and lifted the other to her head, anchoring it against the window frame. Slowly, his eyes never straying from hers, he leaned across the space separating them. His lips brushed hers, like a whisper, before he withdrew, tilted his head to the side, and advanced again. This time the kiss was fuller, penetrating her every defense, both physical and emotional, but still not long enough for her. He retreated once again after a fraction of time and hovered before her, scarcely an inch away. Watching her. Waiting.

Her heart beating a frantic tempo now, Shiloh abandoned all of her reservations and her good sense to swoop in for a more vigorous kiss. So vigorous, in fact, she knocked him off his perch through the open window. Only quick reflexes honed to perfection at the Institute prevented her from tumbling after him.

Bracing herself against the sill, she leaned out the window as far as she was able and watched his descent from the slanted roof to the ground below. She lost sight of him the moment he slid beyond the reach of the light from her window. But then she heard him land with a thud—and a howl—on the ground in front of the back porch when he failed to catch himself on the roof edge. She clasped a hand over her mouth to silence her reaction and waited. When he didn’t rouse right away, panic shot through her and she leaned out another few inches. “Micah? Are

you okay?”

“Fine,” he answered after a few moments, appearing beyond the overhang of the roof as if to prove it to her. “Nothing hurt but what’s left of my pride.”

Relief coursed through her at his statement, and she allowed herself the laugh she’d literally held back before. Her mirth was cut short, however, by his next words.

“Hey, Shiloh! We’ve got to stop falling for each other like this.”

His laughter followed her as she ducked back into the room. She could still hear it even after she closed the window, though not as well. Oh, Lord. She rested against the cool pane of glass and touched her still-tingling lips with shaky fingers. Was she? Falling for him? Was that what this crazy-mad feeling inside of her was?

The question plagued her long into the night.

Peter & The Pumpkin Patch by Andrew & Patti Miller

2011-10-19T14:33:00.000-07:00

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When Peter's family moves into the city, everything is different for Peter. Now they are living in an apartment instead of a house, but at last he meets Emily, who lives in the same building. Emily has a magical garden on the rooftop but Peter has no idea how that garden is about to change his life!

Meet Andrew & Patti Miller, the husband and wife author team. They live in sunny Las Vegas with their three plotting, and now famous, furry children Elliot, Sophie, and Tessa, who, by the way, is the star of her own book: The Trouble with Tessa. They write for a young adult and children's audience.

Andrew & Patti's website

Happy Halloween! anthology

2011-10-19T13:55:00.000-07:00

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This Halloween anthology has something for everyone! It's perfect for

reading by the the fire with a cup of hot spiced cider in hand!

All Hallow's Eve by Cathy MacKenzie perfectly sets the scene for a

spooky Halloween!

A Halloween To Remember by AP Miller is a story of love, loss, and love

refound that you won't want to miss.

An Irish Halloween by Kiki Howell is a sweet tale of one woman's search

for the parents who gave her up for adoption. But what she finds in

Ireland is much more than she ever expected.

Click here to visit Dancing With Bear Publishing to check out our great,

and growing, selection of books!

Love's Golden Dream by Bobbie Shafer

2011-10-19T13:32:00.000-07:00

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Aimee Amelia McKay was an innocent lady of society until she met Marcus Alexander, who told her everything she wanted to hear. Against her father’s wishes, Aimee ran away to California with Marcus and wound up an abused, neglected, and battered woman. After managing to hold onto a few of her mother’s jewels that Marcus hadn’t yet gambled away, Aimee escaped, bought passage on a ship heading to South Carolina via South America. Finally, she would be free but with no place to go, she only hoped she would be able to start a new life far from Marcus’ reach.

During the voyage, Aimee learned the ship’s cargo hold was full of gold from the mines in California, headed to New York. She also met Abram, an elderly Jewish man, whom she befriended. However, that trip would never see New York City. While in the warm gulf waters, the ship ran into a hurricane and began to sink. Only women and children were allowed into the lifeboats but before Aimee was lowered down, Abram thrust his satchel and money belt, both filled with gold, to her. Watching from a distance, the women witnessed the ship sink believing every man left aboard perished.

When the survivors arrived in Charleston, Aimee had a plan. She would escape not only the chance of Marcus finding her, she would become someone else completely – someone Marcus would never recognize. Arriving in Sycamore Grove, Aimee settles into life as Mack Kaymey, a wealthy man who lost his family, and with ill health, only wishes to buy a home and remain secluded for the rest of his life. But when a young, Negro boy appears, Mr. Kaymey discovers a camp of runaway slaves living nearby, and sets out to help them.

But it seems that no matter how well we cover our tracks, the past and the truth has a way of finding us. Can Mack Kaymey avoid Aimee McKay and her problems forever, or will Love’s Golden Dream finally find her in spite of herself?

Author Bobbie Shafer brings her first full-length novel to life in the first of the Secrets of Eagle Creek books, Love’s Golden Dream. (Dancing With Bear Publishing – www.dancingwithbearpublishing.com, 520 pp., paperback, $12.99, release date 10/15/2011). Bobbie Shafer does a wonderful job of bringing the serious subject of domestic violence to the forefront of a novel that will leave you cheering for the heroine and swooning for the hero. Love’s Golden Dream is an instant hit with romance lovers everywhere, and a perfect read for the long, winter days ahead.

Bobbie Shafer is the author of over 300 short stories. Love's Golden Dream is her first full-length novel. She is a member of the Texas Writer's Guild, married, mother of four, and lives in south Texas.

Bobbie's Website

2011-09-16T00:14:00.000-07:00

Title: Blood On The Feather

Author: Melinda Elmore

Author Website

Author Blog

Release Date: 09/15/2011

Publisher: Dancing With Bear Publishing

Publisher Website

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Blurb: Archeologist DeShay Graywater finds much more than she is looking for on a dig on Lakota Sioux land. When detective TJ Hawke and FBI agent Melina Wolfe team up to investigate the murder of a young Sioux woman, much more than the case, and their shared past, present problems.

Adventure, Native culture, and mystery combine in Blood On The Feather to make this a romantic thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat and your heart pounding.

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, Melinda Elmore. I’m so pleased you could join me today. What is your Sizzling Release?

It is a romantic suspense, title Blood on the Feather

What is Blood On The Feather all about?

A young aspiring Lakota writer is found murdered on the reservation. It will take a lot of work for the local Tribal Officer T.J. Hawke and FBI Agent Melina Wolfe to uncover the web of deceit to find out why this young lady was killed.

That sounds like a great story. How did you come up with the idea?

My love for all Native American tribes grabs my heart and pulls me to write the stories. This story in particular was close to my heart for the Lakota and of course, for Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull.

As a multi-published author, what advice do you have for those just beginning a career as a writer?

First, I would like to say it is difficult and time consuming but if you truly want to become a published author the key is to never give up. No matter how many rejections you get, tuck it under your belt and keep going.

Tell the readers about your backlist.

My first book, Native Dreams came out in 2008 and it is not about any particular tribe. It is the love between two people and the struggles they endure at the hands of the white man.

My second book, Native Spirit was published this last February. It is not on a particular tribe either. It is about the struggles the American Indian dealt with when the white man captured them.

Blood on the Feather is my third book, and I consider it a romantic suspense. I have many more books in the works.

What are you working on now?

I am currently working on a mystery novel that has Apache and Navajo culture in it. I am using a lot of their culture and beliefs. I plan on making this a series. There are numerous murders occurring on the reservation and there are clues being left for the Tribal Officer but when his close friend falls victim and ends up in the ICU, it turns personal.

Do you have an evil day job, if so, how do you find time to write?

Yes, I do have a day job. I am a 911 dispatcher. I find the time every day to write because it is my heart and soul. Even if it’s just a page.

What is your creative process?

First thing I do when I start a book, is I research and research. Then I sit down and put the characters together on paper. From there I use my imagination and before long, they come to life.

What does your family and friends think about you being a published author?

My family is my biggest fans. My wonderful husband of 24 years encourages me all the way and does all the house work and cooking so I will have time to write. Wonderful man. My son and daughter say they have a cool mom. As far as friends, most that I attended school with say, “Wow you really made something of yourself.” So all in all, everybody is great and encouraging.

September and the promise of fall—finally! What is your favorite season?

My favorite seasons are Spring and Fall. It's cooler in Arizona then.

The holidays will be here soon (too soon for me!) and it seems they get here earlier each year. From September through January it's one holiday after another. Does this time of year stress you out?

No, I love the holidays. Christmas is my favorite. It’s a time to come together with my family and celebrate the birth of our Creator.

Thank you so much for being here. Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know?

Well thank you for having me. I would like to say thanks to all my fans, you are the greatest.

And before we go, how 'bout a juicy excerpt from Blood On The Feather?

Oh sure, here you go!

Excerpt:

"Confirmed blood match ninety-nine point nine percent match for Abby Winters. Also positive for drugs in her blood."
Now he would have to contact Abby's mother again. The most dreaded part of his job but to add more anxiety to the situation, he had to tell Mrs. Winters' that drugs were in her daughter's body.
Hawke set his cup on the table and rubbed the heels of his palms in his eyes. Sleep. He needed sleep. No doubt it would only come in fits and starts until this case was solved.
"Does anybody have any ideas? Somebody killed this young woman and we have to find out why."
His heart hurt and he knew he would go to the end of the world to bring justice for Abby and her family.
"We must speak to Missus Winters. She may give us an idea of who could have done this," Agent Wolfe said, folding her arms.
Hawke glanced at DeShay, who sat quietly. Her eyes darted back and forth as if her thoughts ran wild, remembering, searching, and calculating.
"Who could have done this to such a young, aspiring person? Abby was known on the reservation as a girl who strived to do the best she could. She wanted to be a writer. There was no way she would be doing drugs." DeShay shook her head. "No way. I'm betting that she was at the wrong place at the wrong time. There would be nobody wanted her harmed."
"Do you have any ideas who, since you remember some of the battles her mother was involved with?" Hawke asked.
At first, DeShay's words seemed to stick in her throat, then she cleared her throat. "Abby's mother had several disagreements with a lot of people. At the time of Abby's disappearance her mother was going up against a company called Double A Industries. They wanted some land near the Black Hills area to build a big housing development.
"After Abby disappeared, her mother lost all interest in the project. The company never started any work on the site but it's just a thought. They had big plans. The map I saw revealed not only a housing development, but also a golf course with a hunting lodge for the rich.
"Amy Winters fought hard against it because she knew it would not benefit our people."
Agent Wolfe leaned forward in her chair. "DeShay, do you know if Abby had a job?"
"Yes, she worked for Ian Guidara. He owns a restaurant in Cactus
Springs. I believe the name of it is Guidara's Steak House. Rumors were she was dating the owner."
Agent Wolfe and Detective Hawke's eyes locked. "Are you thinking what I'm thinking? If Abby was dating the owner, he may have the clue to solving this murder because he would be closest to her and know who she knows."
"I agree Hawke, we must start with the boyfriend first, and see where that leads us," Melina said.
Hawke closed his eyes and offered a prayer to the Creator and Spirits. "Please place a hand over my people and guide us in the right direction. For the one who walks the Red Road will always make the right choices. Thank you Creator."

Contact Melinda!

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Website

My Blog

Melinda's E-mail

My Big Brother by Ike Rose

2011-07-29T00:05:00.000-07:00

Title: My Big Brother

Author: Ike Rose

Author Website

Release Date: 7/31/2011

Publisher: JMS Books

Genre: M/M Erotic Romance, historical

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Blurb:

May 1968. High school bodybuilding champ Ed Green is excited and eager to celebrate his 18th birthday. As a "legal adult" now, he can drink with his older buddies. With graduation just around the corner, he will soon be able to move away from his alcoholic father and Dad’s sluttish young girlfriend, who’s set her sights on Ed.

But the main reason for Ed’s excitement is he’ll be seeing his older step-brother, Johnny, a Marine hero from Vietnam whom he hasn't seen since puberty. The two aren’t related by blood, but they grew up together and Ed has always looked up to his older “brother.” The last time they saw each other, Ed was a shy, short kid with thick glasses. Then Johnny had been Ed’s personal hero and protector, and his move to California devastated his younger “brother.” Now Ed plans to surprise Johnny with muscular changes to his formerly scrawny, weak body.

Only one thing has Ed worried. Though he dates girls, he’s known for a while now that he’s sexually attracted to older men. John will have to share Ed’s bed in the small house for the next few weeks, which makes Ed worry about hiding his lust for the man he's always had a crush on.

How will the hunky Marine react when he learns that not only is his kid brother gay, but Ed has the hots for him, too? Will sharing a bed with his macho big brother lead to Ed's best birthday gift ever?

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, Ike Rose. I’m so pleased you could join me today. What is your Sizzling Release?

An erotic coming-of-age romance called My Big Brother.

What is My Big Brother all about?

A young blue-collar man is turning eighteen in 1968. Ed Green is excited about his planned upcoming reunion with his beloved older stepbrother, Johnny, an about to be discharged Marine hero from Vietnam who he hadn't seen since puberty hit Ed hard, bringing massive changes to his formerly scrawny body. They were separated by the divorce of their parents.

Ed is also worried about their reunion. Although he's only had sex with girls, giving heterosexuality an ample tryout, the star bodybuilder is aware of his sexual attraction to masculine, cigar-smoking men. In working class Brooklyn in 1968, he has no polite words to describe these urges he's never acted on, but the focus of his earliest masturbatory fantasies was Johnny, who will be sharing his bed during the visit.

Ed gets home from school to find his “big brother” sitting on the porch in full uniform, smoking a cigar, waiting for a night of booze-fueled male bonding. Ed is excited and nervous, but now hopeful that perhaps his gay fantasies will come true. Losing his virginity to his macho big stepbrother would be his best birthday gift ever.

How did you come up with the idea?

It came about as a discussion of fantasies with an online friend. He ended up challenging me to write a tale focusing on an incest fantasy. I did two: this one, and one with a young man who was adopted falling in love with a man who turned out to be his birth father. My friend provided the idea of stepbrothers, my own fantasies provided the men.

I mostly write about my own period of coming-out, the late 1960's until the mid-1980's. I consider myself a historical romance writer, educating readers about a recent period when gay life was very different.

As a multi-published author, what advice do you have for those just beginning a career as a writer?

First, get feedback: I started off posting my early stories on the NIFTY Archives (http://www.nifty.org/nifty/ ), adding an email address at the end of each story for feedback. I made sure I answered every fan letter, and solicited more comments by sending out a “newsletter” to these fans whenever I post a new story there. This helped me get confidence as a writer and to discover that even non-erotic romances were liked by my readers.

Second: “Keep Submitting”, and never abandon a story you like. My first published story had been previously rejected. When I saw a Call For Submissions on the Erotic Readers and Writers Association's website for a similar theme, I rewrote the old story to fit the new criteria, ending up with a much better romance four times the size of the original. The ERWA website is a great resource: http://www.erotica-readers.com/ERA/AR/Erotica_Authors_Resources.htm

Tell the readers about your backlist.

This is my first story with JMS, a relatively new (one year old this month) company which calls itself “A Queer Small Press”. My first story was e-published in a Valentine's Day anthology called My Sexy Valentine http://shop.renebooks.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=ANTHO-01 by Sizzler Editions, who plans to release the book in print form for Christmas, 2011.

My series of short erotic romances featuring non-traditional relationships between men, called The ManLove Miniatures, is available from Smashwords at https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/IkeRose . They are 25% off during July.

What are you working on now?

I've been posting chapters of a new book, My Blue Angel, on the It's Raining Men blog (http://rainingmenamen.blogspot.com/ ), which I co-write. It's my weekly posting as a Work In Progress, and my first interracial romance. The book is part of a planned series called The Rainbow Men, with each book having a color in the title, and a main character suggested by the color.

What does your family and friends think about you being a published author?

My lover of twenty-nine years is proud as punch, but he has trouble understanding that I see my characters as real people. I think he's jealous of how much attention I pay to them.

Do you have an evil day job, and if you do, how do you find time to write?

I'm a retired social worker, which I think gives me added insight into characterization. My lover works odd hours, so I have a good deal of time alone to live with characters.

Do you have a favorite character you’ve written but still think about?

A number of them. My favorites tend to be minor characters who the readers only get to glimpse and wonder about, but for whom I've created an elaborate back-story.

July is all about celebration. How does your family celebrate the 4^th of July?
Since my birthday is July 2^nd, the Fourth takes second place. My family is small, and my nephews are usually away for the summer, so we don't do anything other than a dinner for me when all the family can make it.

Hotdogs or hamburgers?

Take-out Chinese food or Indian food!

Watching community fireworks shows or having them at home?

Does the bed count?? LOL

Thank you so much for being here. Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know?

The photographer for my cover for My Big Brother is a talented young man from Russia, Andrei, who can be found at http://vishstudio.deviantart.com/

And before we go, can we get an excerpt from My Big Brother?

Of course!

EXCERPT:

I went into the kitchen, returning with a six-pack of beer, beginning a night of drinking as we renewed our bond. In some ways, it was as if we had never been apart, since we had kept in touch so closely by mail, but in other ways, we were strangers. The last time we had seen each other, John shaved twice a month, while I had no hair on my body. Now, I looked bigger than him because I was more muscular. We established that after three boilermakers, when he stripped to his skivvies so we could stand in the mirror and compare.

John had a great body. There was no question about it; the Marines do know how to build men. But I'd spent the last two years working on my shoulders, legs, arms and chest, so although I was over four years his junior, my hairy chest and body compared to his almost hairless body made me look more mature and larger. We were the same height, but I massed more. We stood there looking at each other in the big mirror in the hall. I admired a small Marine tattoo on his left pec, drunk enough to run my hand over it. My hand touched his nipple, and he moaned.

It was then that I finally noticed two things. Both of my stepbrother’s nipples were erect and the size of erasers, while both of us were sporting hard-ons. Confused, I walked over to the sofa to think. It had to be a coincidence. John was a fucking Marine. A leatherneck couldn’t be queer like me?

John interrupted my bewildered thoughts, “Hey, Squirt, do you get high?” I guess I looked confused. “You know, pot?” He mimed smoking a joint.

“Yeah, sure I do. Why?”

“’Cause I got some excellent shit I smuggled back from ‘Nam upstairs in my trunk. Let’s go up to our room and get wasted, Squirt.”

“Sure, Shrimp-dick.” He stared at me, startled. “I wanted to see how you liked being called a demeaning nickname. I don’t think I qualify as Squirt anymore, do you?”

He grinned. “Hell, Squirt, you can call me anything you want. I can still kick your fucking ass after my leg heals.”

“Do you need me to carry you up the stairs, Baby-balls?” We broke into drunken laughter as he struggled up the stairs in front of me. I stared at his muscular ass moving in the thin cotton skivvies. I realized that this was not only going to be a long night; it was going to be a long visit, with a hell of a lot of cold showers. Suddenly the idea of dating and fucking girls as second best seemed almost acceptable. Maybe I'd get John some double dates so I could get to watch him fucking them. I even started to think of which girls I'd fucked who might agree to being shared, figuring that was as close as I'd ever get to having sex with my stepbrother.

We sat on the bed as we smoked the joint, and a second one. By then, I was so fucking horny that I had to tell Johnny the truth.

“Uh, John, if you’re going to be sleeping in this bed with me for about the next month there’s a tiny detail you gotta know about me.”

“What? You snore? I’ve been sleeping in a barracks with a hundred grunts, so I’m used to that. If you’re gonna tell me you jerk off, the same applies. Besides, I do, too.”

He giggled drunkenly as he gave me a punch on the arm that hurt.

“No. Now, nothing I ever wrote to you is a lie. Every one of the stories about girls is the truth. But... shit, you’re gonna beat the crap out of me, but I gotta tell you the truth. I’ve never done anything about it, but I’ve known for the last couple of years that I’m.. I’m...”

“You're what?”

I shouted, “I’m a fucking queer homo faggot!”

John sat and looked at me for a full minute. Then, his lips slowly spread in a huge grin. “So am I, little brother, so am I. And I've done a hell of a lot about it.”

I sat, staring at him dumbly as he grabbed my wrist to pull me towards him.

“I thought I’d dropped dead and went to queer heaven when you came down those stairs almost naked this afternoon. Fuck, you’re so damned hot, Squir…Ed. I’ve seen a lot of hot men in the last six years, but you’re the hottest I’ve ever seen. Um...you...you wouldn’t happen to be...?”

His entire beautiful body blushed.

“Hot for you? Johnny, I’ve been fucking horny for you since...Hell, I suppose since I was six years old. For about three years I beat off sniffing a sweatshirt of yours that I stole before you moved away. When I saw you smoking that cigar on the steps this afternoon, I just about shot a load in my pants, you looked so fucking hot.” I put a hand on his cheek, relishing the feel of a man's beard stubble for the first time. “Johnny, teach me. Show me what to do. I’m told I’m good in bed with chicks. Shouldn't that be a good start?”

Broken But Not Dead by Joylene Nowell Butler

2011-07-15T00:08:00.000-07:00

Title: Broken But Not Dead

Author: Joylene Nowell Butler

Author Website

Release Date: June 27, 2011

Publisher: Theytus Books

Genre: Suspense/Thriller

Buy Link

Blurb: Brendell Kisêpîsim Meshango is of Métis heritage and a PhD university professor in Prince George, British Columbia. When Brendell resigns from the university and retreats to her isolated cabin to repair her psyche, a masked intruder confronts her. His racial comments lead her to believe she is the solitary victim of a hate crime. However, is all as it appears? After two bizarre days inflicting a sadistic captivity, the intruder mysteriously disappears.

Taught by her mother to fear and distrust the mainstream-based power structures, and with her stalker possibly linked to a high level of government, Brendell conceals the incident from the police. But will keeping quiet keep her safe?

Then her beloved daughter, Zoë, is threatened — and Brendell takes matters into her own hands. To save Zoë, Brendell searches for the stalker and confronts not just a depraved madman but her own fears and prejudices.

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, Joylene. I’m so pleased you could join me today. What is your Sizzling Release?

Hi Rie, my sizzling release is Broken But Not Dead.

What is Broken But Not Dead all about?

Métis English professor races to save her daughter from the deranged son of a powerful politician bent on being Canada’s Prime Minister.

That sounds intriguing. How did you come up with the idea?

As a menopausal and annoyed-with-life-in-general woman, it occurred to me that there weren’t enough stories about women my age. Then one day a question popped into my head. Could a good person be pushed to kill to protect a loved one?

I love that! Now, as a multi-published author, what advice do you have for those just beginning a career as a writer?

The usual: Write, read, study, analyze, learn how to critique, because if you do it well, it’ll rub off on your own writing. And learn to be stubborn. You get rejected, turn it around to your benefit, learn your craft, which means grammar, structure, POV, and promotion. Above all, keep writing.

Tell the readers about your backlist.

My first novel Dead Witness is the story of Valerie McCormick, a Canadian mother who, while visiting Seattle, witnesses the execution of two FBI Agents. Whisked away from her family and all that is familiar to her, Valerie fights back against the well-intentioned FBI to ultimately take control over her life with every ounce of fury a mother can possess.

What are you working on now?

I’m finishing up the sequel to Broken But Not Dead, titled Omatiwak: Woman Who Cries. After that I’m finishing a WIP progress about a man searching for the reason his wife was randomly run down. I’m not sure if I should title it Dead Wrong or simply Wrong.

If I can have a vote, I like "Dead Wrong"! Is there something in particular that sparks you to write something new?

It generally begins with a question. In Dead Witness I wondered what would happen if a PI would accept that his sister was dead if he couldn’t identify the remains. Would he accept the news, or investigate fully? In Broken But Not Dead I wondered if non-violent Brendell could be pushed to kill to save her daughter. In Kiss of the Assassin I wondered what would happen to a five-year-old child who witnessed the murder/suicide of her parents and was then trained as an assassin.

What does your family and friends think about you being a published author?

They’re a little in awe until I open my mouth and say something corny like “Hey, what’s up dude?”

July is all about celebration. How does your family celebrate the 4^th of July?

Here in Canada we celebrate Canada Day on July 1^st. Lots of fun things to do. Generally, we have the family out to our home on the lake, and we fish all day long. Or at least until noon. Then the older kids water ski.

Sounds a lot like our American holiday. I'm always amazed at how much the same we are, no matter where we live. Now, the important question: Hotdogs or hamburgers?

Both. We have an open pit down by the water and it’s hotdogs, hamburgers, and baked potatoes.

Watching community fireworks shows or having them at home?

There are a few families across the lake that seems to compete to see who has the most fireworks. It’s pretty spectacular.

Thank you so much for being here. Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know?

Thank you, Rie. It was fun. I just want to thank your readers for reading. If it weren't for that, I would be out of business. And I can’t imagine doing anything else. Thank you!

You've been a wonderful guest, please come back anytime. And before we go, can we get a juicy excerpt from Broken But Not Dead?

Absolutely!

EXCERPT:

With his free hand, he smoothed the hair off my cheek. Then he grasped my chin so I couldn’t turn my head. He shifted, slipping his hand out from behind his back and resting it on the bed beside my head. I felt something hard and cold touch my cheek. It moved along my throat… touching my chin… my lower lip. I smelled… oiled metal. He tucked his thumb in my mouth and forced my lips apart. Oh dear God! He pressed the barrel of the gun against my teeth… between my teeth. I tasted cold steel.

I tried not to gag. I hoped someone other than Zoë found me.

He withdrew the gun and let go of my chin. The stool squeaked, and he walked to the kitchen window, his arms folded across his chest.

I cried without sound.

He grabbed something from the counter and returned to the side of my bed.

I stiffened, expecting the excruciating pressure. But this time I felt a prick on the tender area of my neck while my mind registered the word syringe.

“I’ll be watching. Listening. I know everything. All the time wondering, should I hurt Zoë? Make her pay for your crimes?”

ANOTHER BOOK BY JOYLENE NOWELL BUTLER:

Valerie McCormick is a wife and mother from small town Canada. While visiting Seattle, she becomes the only witness to the brutal seaside murder of two FBI agents. When she flees to the nearest police station to report the crime, she becomes caught up in a web of international intrigue and danger. Suddenly, she and her family are in the sights of ruthless criminals bent on preventing her from testifying against the murderer. Even with FBI protection, Valerie is not safe. Whisked away from her family and all that is familiar to her, Valerie fights back against the well intentioned FBI to ultimately take control over her life with every ounce of fury a mother can possess.

Lost Prince by Ainsley

2011-07-09T12:02:00.000-07:00

Title: Lost Prince - Bk. 1 Salt Road Saga

Author: Ainsley

Author Website

Release Date: July 2011

Publisher: Whiskey Creek Press/Torrid

Genre: SF Erotic Romance

Buy Link

Blurb:

The only thing that’s kept Alaric, the so-called Lost Prince of Calixte, from giving into his grief over his beloved homeworld is the thought of revenge against the man who betrayed his people. But he couldn’t be more wrong about Haydn, who actually saved two thousand Calixten soldiers from certain death and secreted them on an inhospitable planet. There, they’ve launched a fledgling rebellion against the Coalition. They only need their prince to lead them.

Alaric needs a pilot to get him to his soldiers, someone too desperate to betray him. Katriel, a hot-shot deserter pilot enslaved to Haydn by debt, is perfect for the job. But neither Katriel nor Alaric realize how the battle over Calixte binds them closer than blood. When they find out, their collision will send shockwaves through the universe.

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, Ainsley. I’m so pleased you could join me today. What is your Sizzling Release?

Thanks for having me! My latest book is Lost Prince, an erotic science fiction.

What is Lost Prince all about?

It’s an unlikely romance set against the backdrop of a massive trade route across six galaxies and the junta that controls it. Alaric is a prince who lost his homeplanet, Calixte, when they refused to bow to Coalition rule. Katriel, a Coalition pilot, lost her husband in the war over Calixte.

That sounds very interesting. How did you come up with the idea?

I’m a huge Star Wars fan, and I always wanted to write space opera. When my publisher was seeking SF, I knew I had to try my hand. I wanted two characters who were strong, independent, damaged, and unlikely to make a couple. So I put them on opposite sides of the battle over Calixte, gave them both severe losses and devastating secrets, fast forwarded two years, and locked them into a tiny spaceship together.

I know this is book number one in the series Salt Road Saga. Did you begin writing with a series in mind, or did your muse take over?

When I started, it was meant to be a stand-alone. But my publisher came back asking for a series, and you don’t tell your editor no when they ask for more. So I held a contest for the series name on my blog and I’m just getting ready to start brainstorming the next book.

As a multi-published author, what advice do you have for those just beginning a career as a writer?

Find a good critique group that tells it like it is. You’ll be glad you did when your editor picks apart your work. Writing from the heart and proper craft are not mutually exclusive. Write a million words. Write a million more. (I think I hit a million in 2007 or so, I’m sure I’ve looped that since.) As soon as you want your words out there, everything changes. Writing is creative, selling is a business. The reader is your god. You can learn a lot about writing novels by writing short stories.

That’s probably enough for now… J

Tell the readers about your backlist.

I have Quencher

and Quenched

both from Torrid. They’re part of a series about a vampire dating service.

What are you working on now?

I just finished writing the second installment for my urban fantasy series featuring hot demon twin brothers who war against the demon King Asmodai. Sentinel: Archive of Fire will be out in January 2012. Right now I’m under deadline for a commissioned short story. I’m revising a futuristic thriller, which seems to be a never-ending project, and I’m going to be brainstorming the next book in Salt Road Saga in the next few weeks. It’s a busy summer for me.

Do you have an evil day job, and if you do, how do you find time to write?

No evil day job, but I have a fun one raising my kiddos Alex (12) and Grace (9). Ours is a very creative, messy, noisy household, so I’ve learned to write under all circumstances, and at all hours. But mostly I work when they are at school.

Do you have a favorite character you’ve written but still think about?

Probably Aidan and Kaelin, the twins from the Sentinel series. They were my first characters after coming back to writing after a long hiatus and I’m so excited to get their story out there. They are very young and broken. Mending them is going to take at least four books.

What does your family and friends think about you being a published author?

Generally they are very supportive until they run out of clean socks. J

July is all about celebration. How does/did your family celebrate the 4^th of July?

We spend it in the mountains at Grand Lake, Colorado. We have a second home there and it’s a big party on the beach, hundreds of people, Navy flyovers, lots of friends, kids running all over, music and games and fireworks. I also set part of each of the Sentinel books in Grand Lake. It’s home.

Hotdogs or hamburgers?

I grew up in Chicago and spent my summers in Door County, Wisconsin. I’m a bratwurst girl.

Watching community fireworks shows or having them at home?

We do some of both, but you have to be careful of fires in the mountains. It’s been a wet year though so there were no bans. The fireworks display up there is spectacular, over the water with the mountains behind.

Thank you so much for being here. Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know?

I always like to give a shout out to the magazine I help edit, Electric Spec. We’ve been going for 5 years and we have some great short speculative fiction in it.

And before we go, can we get a juicy excerpt from Lost Prince?

Of course!

EXCERPT:

Alaric met her right outside the cockpit doorway. Unspent power radiated from his hard body. Piloting required a physical battle with the cockpit, speed of reflex and sometimes strength to make controls obey. Gunning required more adrenalin than muscle. A sheen of sweat slicked his bare chest, his tanned skin painted rosy from the red atmosphere shining in through the real-time display and small port viewglass.

“Good flying.” Alaric’s voice was quiet and deep. His wet, clipped blond hair looked almost black; his purple eyes shadowed to cobalt. He smelled of smoke, ozone and lubricants from the gunport, and male.

A tingle started deep in Katriel’s belly and settled between her legs. Faint desire tugged at her clit and tightened her nipples. She realized her chest was heaving, like she’d run laps around a spaceport. She hadn’t breathed enough in the cockpit. A wonder she hadn’t passed out.

“And damn good shooting, Your Highness.”

“Don’t call me that.”

But he moved closer, his gaze intent on hers, a slight smile playing on his lips. She felt his nearness, almost tasted the salt of his sweat on her tongue. But he didn’t make her nervous, not like when the scarred pirate had drawn near. Rather, she had to keep her hand from reaching out to him.

Focus. Say something.

Alaric stared somewhere near the vicinity of her hairline. Deep lines etched concern into his fine features, hardening him into a warrior.

“You’re bleeding,” he said.

She touched the sore spot where she’d banged her head earlier, just as he reached for it. Their fingers bumped and she startled. He caught her hand and drew it away.

“It’s not bad,” he said, leaning still closer, studying the cut. “I’ll see to it for you.”

She looked up at him, meant to pull away. But the universe narrowed to his heliotrope eyes and the hard planes of his tanned face, the energy still racing through her veins, the thrum of his hand gripping her wrist.

He lowered his face to hers and kissed her.

His mouth was insistent, ravenous, hard, and she answered with the same raw hunger. He pressed her back a step and trapped her against the smooth hold wall with his muscled body. His bare chest slid over her sweat-dampened tank and pushed against her breasts. Her nipples tightened further, tingling as he kissed her harder, his tongue exploring her mouth.

OTHER BOOKS BY AINSLEY:

Quench is a discreet place to fulfill your fantasies, no matter how wild, and it’s exactly what Detective Ethan Harper and his girlfriend Savannah need to rev up their sex life. In the midst of a serial murder investigation, they seek some unconventional relaxation there—a sizzling threesome with the striking, enigmatic Rafe. Over the course of examining new scenes and interviewing witnesses, Ethan discovers that all the leads point right back to Quench and Rafe. Rumors involving vampires surface. When Rafe comes after Savannah and proves his true nature, Ethan realizes the case has gone well beyond the powers of the police department to solve. Vampires are very real, and only one thing can stop them: another vampire.

At Quench Dating Services, you can experience a sensual night with a match that looks like the celebrity of your dreams—guaranteed, no fee, no gimmicks.

They only ask that you give blood.

Chere Richardson fantasizes about women. After her boyfriend proposes, she feels compelled to divulge her bisexual tendencies thus shocking him into breakup. Frustrated and lonely, Chere meets with her best friend, Adrianna, who is secretly a vampire. To help Chere realize her desires, Adrianna arranges a date for her through Quench. The date backlashes when scandalous photographs of Chere surface, igniting a firestorm of blackmail, jealousy, and investigations that could expose the truth about Quench. And the vampires behind the dating service will kill, not only a mortal like Chere, but even one of their own, to keep from being discovered.

Cold, Cold Heart by Viviane Brentanos

2011-06-30T00:08:00.000-07:00

Title: Cold, Cold Heart

Author: Viviane Brentanos

Author Website

Release Date: June 30 2011

Publisher: MuseItHot Publishing

Buy Link: TBA

Genre: Contemporary Romance {erotic – a bit}

Blurb: Daniel Haynes has the world at his feet- fame, fortune, so why does he feel so empty inside? What is his interest in Rachel Warner, a girl from a quiet Home Counties English town? Why does she hold the key to his happiness?
But Rachel Warner is scared. Daniel's interest in her threatens her ordered yet unsatisfying life because she has to live with the shadow of her ex-father-in-law breathing over her shoulder. Can she let go of her fears?

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, Viviane Brentanos. I’m so pleased you could join me today. What is your Sizzling Release?

My sizzling release is called Cold, Cold Heart. This work was previously published back in 2007 with Wild Rose Press but I am delighted to have been given the chance by MuseItHot Publishing to breathe new life into it. I have revamped it and brought it up to date for 2011.

What is Cold, Cold Heart all about?

Cold, Cold Heart is a story about a young woman struggling to keep her son free from the clutches of a bullying ex-husband and his father. Because of this, she has decided to give up on love and fun. She believes it is not for her. Enter one young, extremely handsome and too dangerously famous Daniel Haines. She cannot understand why a man who has everything would be interested in her. He, somehow, has to break through her barriers and thaw that cold, cold heart. But it is a journey fraught with tension and so much pain and – ultimately – great personal sacrifice. Although Cold deals with many serious issues i.e. psychological bullying, it is laced with what I like to think is my trademark caustic British wit. As a review from Alternative read said…. reading all day and half the night. I just couldn't put it down. I had to find out 'what happened next'. The reader will run the gamut of emotional highs and lows as they progress through this story. Laughter, tears, heartache, sadness, relief, you name it, you'll feel it. Great read.

That is subject we hear about more and more. How did you come up with the idea?

Now this is a funny tale. Can you believe a dream starring – Eminem? In this dream, I was working as a PA to the manager of an exclusive country hotel. My job was to deal with the rich and famous. Eminem entered my office to apologize on behalf of his entourage. He turned out to be very polite and intelligent and too interested in me. From this, I developed the scenario for Cold, Cold Heart and, with the image of the delectable singer/song writer, Darren Hayes, in my head, my story took shape.

Eminem, huh? We won't go there right now! :) As a multi-published author, what advice do you have for those just beginning a career as a writer?

Perseverance. There is no short cut in this business. Write because you love it and not because you want to be the next JK Rawlings. Stay true to your voice. What will be will be. Even if that contract eludes you, it doesn’t mean your work is no good. There are writer worse and better than you out there. Keep at it.

Good advice. Tell the readers about your backlist.

I consider myself still very much a new author, even though Cold, Cold Heart is my fourth published single title romance.

Both my ‘Greek’ tales, Dreamweek and Fragile Dreams, can be found at Red Rose Publishing

Fragile Dreams

Dreamweek

And then we move on to Written in Stone and Cold, Cold Heart, both with MuseItHot Publishing – the slightly naughtier division of MuseItUp Publishing.

Written in Stone

Cold, Cold Heart

Hmmm...funny, I also have a title Written In Stone! What are you working on now?

Oh what can I say? I have so many ideas running around in my head. I do not know where to begin. I do have two manuscripts submitted to MuseItUp and I am keeping my fingers crossed. The first, Past Undone, is a bit of a departure for me – a romantic suspense, if you like, while the second, A Little Crushed, is a revamped ms from 2004 which is my baby and the one I will be most happy over if it is accepted. I am gearing up to begin on a new idea as soon as I begin work.

Do you have an evil day job, and if you do, how do you find time to write?

Evil day job? Oh I like that. I suppose some of the guests I work with can be evil – especially spoilt little kids who refuse to follow hotel rules. I am a hotel receptionist, by the way. I do like my job. It is interesting in that I get to meet lots of people who often provide me with storylines for my tales. I work the late shift – from 2pm to 10pm. Between two and five, most of the guests are either at the beach, by the pool or having a siesta. During this quiet time is when I will pen a new w.i.p. I write long hand so, it’s easy to pretend to anyone who passes through reception that I am hard at work on hotel business.

I smell promo op with that job! What sparks your imagination and gets your juices flowing?

Most of my scenarios have come from dreams. Don’t ask me why these stories unfold in my subconscious, they just do. I am also inspired by certain men I admire, singers, actors etc. I am a huge tennis fan and I adore Rafa Nadal so I am thinking this year’s w.i.p just may be on a tennis theme.

What does your family and friends think about you being a published author?

Ha ha – look, until I start bringing in the big bucks, I don’t think they take me seriously. It is just mummy’s little hobby – although my daughter has read my stuff and likes it. My son is too mortified that his mother can write such things. Let’s face it – all sons think their mothers had kids by Immaculate Conception.

It’s June and summer is upon us. Do you have any vacation plans?

Oh how I wish. As you know, I live on the beautiful Greek island of Corfu but, contrary to opinion, we do not spend all our summers on beaches. As I mentioned, I am employed seasonally as a hotel receptionist and I work four months solid, with not one day off. What with housework and family plus my writing, there is no time for the beach. I do, however, get to sip ice-cold beers with my friends, after work. Still beats living anywhere else.

Your life IS a summer vacation! I fully expect a deep hotel discount when I make it out your way! lol What is your favorite vacation memory?

Okay. Let’s go back to the early seventies for this one; before kids were spoiled on charter travel. My family was fortunate enough to have relatives living in the south of France and my French uncle also had a holiday apartment in Spain. Every summer, my family would drive through France, stopping off at the most wonderful little French Pensions. My favourite all-time memory is an overnight stop at a hotel in the town of Fontainebleau. We stayed in a room that was once used by the architect who helped design the palace at Fontainebleau. It was an amazing room. The best memory was eating a wonderful breakfast in the old walled garden. A beautiful summer morning, a jug of steaming café au lait, warm croissants and fresh butter. A pure delight.

Wow, what a great life! Now, Men: Speedo or trunks?

Is this for me? Can I answer this? Speedos – most times not – and definitely not white ones {too many memories of 80’s style Greek posers}. On the other hand, I hate the baggy down to the knees surfer dude look. It only works well if you are Matthew McConaughey. So, perfect male swimwear? Got to be those delicious little shorts Daniel Craig wore in Casino Royale but then – he is Daniel Craig

Ladies: Bikini, one-piece, tankini, or shorts and a t-shirt?

Mmm – good question, this. Being the proud owner of a series of scars, following double mastectomy, whatever I choose to wear can be a problem. At first, I was self-conscious and stuck to tankini’s but now I don’t care. Whatever makes me look thinner. Lol.

Good for you! And congratulations on being a cancer survivor. I know your readers are happy about that too! Lake, river, or ocean?

Ocean/sea every time. I can never understand why so many people will come on holiday, rent a room right on the beach front and then spend the next two weeks at a pool crammed with screaming kids, too many airbeds and skanky water. The sea is so good for you; wonderful for your skin, your muscles, just about everything.

Surfing or water skiing?

Never done either as I am as blind as a bat without my glasses. I did paraglide once. Once the exhilaration of getting up was done, it was pretty boring but, again, because I couldn’t wear my specs I couldn’t get to see much.

Snorkeling or scuba diving?

Love swimming but tend to get claustrophobic so snorkeling is a close as it gets for me. Even then I panic. I would rather swim underwater sans anything.

Thank you so much for being here. Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know?

Only that I thank everyone who has taken time out to read my interview. If anyone would like to leave a comment or has a question, feel free. There will be a free download as a prize.

And before we go, can we get a juicy excerpt from Cold, Cold Heart?

My pleasure, enjoy…….

Blood rushed to her head. His caressing tone made the hairs on the back of her neck stand up.

“Rachel…. ” He held both her hands “I want to make love to you. For eleven years, you are all I've thought about. I can't get you out of my head. I don't want to get you out of my head.”

She couldn't move, hypnotized. Her cheeks burned, her body trembled as his hands crept up her arms before resting on her shoulders. He wanted to kiss her, and as much as she wanted it too, she panicked.

“I think we need a drink.” She jumped to her feet, cheeks so hot she could have toasted bread on them. It was nothing compared to the searing heat burning between her legs. “I-I need a drink. Would wine be okay? I think there's some in the fridge.”

In the kitchen, Rachel made straight for the sink. “This isn't happening to me.” She moaned, splashing cold water on her face “I've got to get him out of here. Just one drink, and I'll send him packing.”

She slammed cupboard doors open and shut, frantically searching for a decent glass. She didn't think he'd appreciate a Bob the Builder plastic tumbler. The fridge, to her immense relief, offered up its prize of bargain rack white from deep behind the yogurts. Now all she needed was a corkscrew.

“Oh, where the bloody hell are you?” she muttered, pushing aside the ill-matched cutlery she'd never gotten around to sorting out. “Come on…. Oh!” She banged the drawer shut and froze. An arm curled around her waist, pulling her up against a hard, lean body. For a moment, she couldn't breathe. Daniel lifted up the heavy mane of hair from her neck. If he hadn't held her so tightly, she'd have buckled in his arms.

“You're so beautiful,” he murmured, warm breath brushing her ear.

Soft lips moved to the nape of her neck. Rachel closed her eyes against the blistering touch of his mouth on her skin. “Oh, Daniel, please…don't….”

“Oh, Daniel, do!” he whispered, before turning her around to face him.

One look into those eyes, and Rachel lost the battle. With a low whimper, she slid her arms around him, unable to resist. He parted her lips, teasing with his tongue. White-hot desire exploded through her body. His kisses were exquisite—somehow she'd known they would be—soft and tender, driving her crazy as she released years of pent-up frustrations.

Moving in tantalizing slowness, he brought his hands down to rest on her bottom, pulling her in closer against the hard length of him. The feel of him, pressed to her parted thighs excited her beyond words. As in a trance, she allowed her own hands to slide down to his hips, drawing him even closer. She embraced him while their hands explored each other. Before sliding under her top, his palms brushed against her stomach, stroking her burning skin. With one swift move, he pulled the camisole over her head. It thrilled her to see the desire in his eyes. Sweet kisses caressed her throat. He cupped her breasts, and she arched her back as, with a feather-light touch, he brushed over the tips. Winding her fingers through his shiny, thick hair, she buried her face in it, breathing the clean scent of him.

“I want you so much,” he murmured. “Can you feel it?” He took her trembling hand and placed it on his hammering heart. “Here….” Slowly he guided her down to touch the hard bulge between his legs. “And here. Can you feel how much I need you?”

“Daniel….” Her voice shook. She struggled to get the words out. Her own emotions spun out of control, but the feel of him against her hand sent a bubble of panic rising to the surface. “I want you, too, but…I'm scared.”

“Shh.” He kissed her again while he moved her hand up and down the length of him. “You don't have to be afraid. I won't do anything if you don't want me to. But please don't push me away, darling. Let me stay with you tonight. Let me love you. I can't lose you now.”

He continued his assault on her senses, caressing, and pushing her over the edge until she'd no hope of resistance.

“You want me.” He smiled at her, looking confident, their hearts beating in unison. “Don’t you?”

Rachel only nodded, unable to speak. With that one erotic, provocative smile, she was lost. Taking him by the hand, she led him upstairs.

My links….

Midnight Mirage by Willa Edwards

2011-06-24T00:42:00.000-07:00

Title: Midnight Mirage

Author: Willa Edwards

Author Website

Release Date: June 8, 2011

Publisher: Siren Publishing

Buy Link

Genre: Erotic Contemporary Ménage Romance

Blurb:

Lincoln and Gabe, best friends and the hottest new alt-rock duo Mirage, only want one thing. Mallory. They’ve been waiting a year for Mallory to open her heart to both of them and accept the alternative relationship they wish for.
Mallory’s flattered by their attentions but can’t believe they’re any more than sweet words. They’re rock stars, surrounded by beautiful woman. They can’t possibly want a plain-Jane reporter like her.
When a crazed fan forces their hand, their protective instincts take over. Gabe and Lincoln aren’t willing to wait for their woman any longer. They initiate her with intense pleasure, ringing in the New Year in the naughtiest way possible. But when they whisper words of love and forever in her ear, she runs away.
Will Mallory be able to open her heart and return their affection, or will insecurity keep her from the men who love her?

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, Willa. I’m so pleased you could join me today. What is your Sizzling Release?

It’s great to be here Rie. Midnight Mirage is my newest release. It’s a contemporary ménage staring two hot rockstars, and an adventurous journalist as they celebrate a very naughty New Years Eve.

What is Midnight Mirage all about?

Midnight Mirage is really about opening yourself up to new experiences, especially love, and creating your own future based on what you want and not other’s expectations. My heroine, Mallory, has spent a great deal of her life hiding from what she truly loves, because of what her mother or friends thought of her. She’s closed herself off to new experiences, and even love. But Lincoln and Gabe are more than willing to help her catch up on lost time—on both counts.

That sounds sexy. How did you come up with the idea?

Since my story was set on New Year’s Eve, and I’m a New Yorker, I couldn’t think of anywhere more exciting to celebrate the holiday than Times Square. Once I decided my heroine was going to be at the ball drop, I had to give her a good reason. Because I’d been to Time Square for New Year’s, and it’s crowded, cold, noisy, with no bathrooms. The best reason I could think for her to be there was if she were part of the festivities. Since most of the celebrations involve popular musical acts, Lincoln and Gabe quickly evolved into yummy rockstars with some very hot results.

I know this is book number two in your Naughty Holiday List series. Did you begin writing with a series in mind, or did your muse take over?

When I started writing Naughty List, the first book, I knew I wanted it to be a series. The idea of women writing down lists of what they wanted in a man and then going out and getting it was too much fun to only do once. There were so many possibilities. But when I completed Naughty List it was just an idea. After I sold that story to Cobblestone Press I realized, Wow, I actually have to make this series work.

It’s taken some time and thought, but I now have all the other stories plotted and I’m very excited to write the rest of the series. Though Midnight Mirage might be the hottest, a few of the other stories will definitely be scorchers.

As a multi-published author, what advice do you have for those just beginning a career as a writer?

Play around, don’t be afraid to try new things, and find out what works for you. I wasted a lot of time trying to write what I thought authors were suppose to write, or how they were supposed to write. When I decided to do my own thing, it changed everything for me.

Make sure you write every day. I have many works that didn’t get work, or were rejected by publishers, before I received an acceptance. While I do have intentions to rewrite some of them and to keep submitting, I now can see why they were rejected. Yet if I hadn’t written them, I never would have improved to the stage I’m at now. And with each work I can feel myself develop even further. Writing is a continuing evolution. If you don’t do the work, you’ll never get better.

Great advice. Tell the readers about your backlist.

Naughty List (Naughty Holiday Lists – Book One)

Eric has been in love with Callie since the day they met, one month after someone else put a ring on her finger. Since her engagement ended Eric has been biding his time, waiting for her to be ready. Until he finds a naughty list of Christmas wishes hidden between her couch cushions with his name on the top.

He’s willing to do anything to make Callie happy, including take on the role of dominate Santa Claus and spank her to blow-your-stockings-off orgasm. But is she ready for everything he wants? Does she want his love?

What are you working on now?

Right now I’m working on the next installment in the Naughty Holiday List series. The next book will be Krista’s story, who made a cameo appearance in Naughty List and had a supporting role in Midnight Mirage. It will take place on Valentine’s Day. I’m really excited about Krista’s story, because it’s a very different story for me to write. I’m having a lot of fun with her and her beau, James.

Also I’m working on edits for a short story I wrote titled “Whatever You Want, Sir” which will be coming out with Whiskey Creek-Torrid.

Do you have an evil day job, and if you do, how do you find time to write?

I do have an evil day job now, though I do hope to be able to write full time at some point. Fitting in writing can be hard around all my other responsibilities, not only my day job, but also taking care of my home, myself and my furry babies (who are definitely a handful), my daughterly responsibilities and friends.

I find what works best for me is writing in small defined periods of time, usually a hour or so. If I only have a short period of time to work I tend to focus more, instead of being distracted by emails, people, TV, etc…since I simply don’t have the time. I try to get up an hour before work and focus that hour on writing. The same is true with my hour long lunch break at the EDJ (and I might take a little longer than that, but shh, don’t tell my boss). Then at night I try to write, which if the characters are really talking to me I will do. And if I’m not feeling motivated to write, I try to do edits, promotion, or play with the fur babies.

What sparks your imagination and gets your juices flowing?

I love stories, of all kinds. Hearing or reading other peoples stories always stimulates my creative bone. I sometimes will read a book and think, that’s great but what if this happened, or that was okay, but it could’ve been better if this had happened.

I especially get in inspired by real life stories. The idea for my Naughty Holiday List series came from watching Oprah when she was discussing The Secret and a woman who wrote down her own list of desires for a partner and then found that man in the same apartment building. Whenever I read a story of a real romance, I always want to find a way to immortalize it in word. I love being able to add that touch of reality to my works.

What does your family and friends think about you being a published author?

When I first told my family my story had been accepted no one was surprised. I’d been writing my entire life, and had been submitting for about a year. However now that it was going to be available to the world, I had to confess what I actually wrote. I’ve never let any of my family read my writing. And none of them knew I wrote romance, let alone erotic romance. I had to deal with a lot of questions, like why do you write that? Have you ever done that?

While I’m not sure if any of my family is ever going to read my work, they’ve been very supportive, because they know this is my dream. And I know they all really like my covers.

What is your favorite vacation memory?

My favorite vacation ever was when I took a bus tour of Ireland with my family. I was studying at Cambridge in England at the time, and my whole family came over and we took a trip during one of my breaks. Even though it was June it was damp and chilly, but I still loved it (I’ve always been a big fan of rain). I loved climbing through the castles, spending time by the coast, and of course lots of Guinness.

I would recommend Ireland to anyone as a great place to travel. I love the Irish people. They have this very sarcastic sense of humor that often has me rolling, and lots of great authors and artisans. And the food and drink are great. As a vegetarian I was well feed everywhere we went (which I don’t find true in the States).

Ireland is my dream vacation! Now, something really important! Men: Speedo or trunks?

Trunks definitely. There’s no way a man can look good in a Speedo unless he’s an underwear model (and the ones I have seen in Speedos usually aren’t).

Women: Bikini, one-piece, tankini, or shorts and a t-shirt?

A guess shorts and t-shirt but you rarely see me in those either. I have fair Irish skin, and get sunburned indoors, so I try and limit sun exposure. On other women I think tankinis are cute. The best of both worlds.

Lake, river, or ocean?

River. My grandfather has lived on the river my whole life and I had so many fond memories of being at his house, splashing along in the water, feeling the breeze cool the house down at night.

Surfing or water skiing?

Neither. I’d rather just swim. I know I’m boring.

Snorkeling or scuba diving?

I’d love to go scuba diving, but haven’t done it yet. It’s still on my bucket list.

And before we go, can we get a juicy excerpt from Midnight Mirage?

Of course.

STORY EXCERPT

“Ready for your interview?” Mallory asked, her voice rumbling with unease as she took the final steps to meet Lincoln and Gabe, the duo who made up Mirage, the band she’d been sent to this New Year’s extravaganza to interview. The ground vibrated beneath her feet from the bass of the band still onstage. She looked up to meet their eyes, the focused heat of Lincoln and Gabe’s gaze burning her like a laser. Mallory tried to ignore the warm fluttering in her stomach at their stare, and the heat climbing up her face.

There was something different about the way they looked at her today. The way they’d watched her approach. Her reporter sense tingled.

She knew these men better than probably anyone else did, beside their mothers. In the year since she’d met them, they’d become the constant in her new, relentlessly-moving life spent searching for new stories and bands. Since she’d started her career last January she could only recall a few instances when she’d gone more than three weeks without running into Gabe and Lincoln. She’d interviewed every one of their opening acts, reported on the same award ceremonies and benefits they attended, and even ended up at the same hotel as they were during their vacation, which she’d arrived at to interview a different musician entirely.

At first it had seemed odd to her, too coincidental, but after a few months on the road she’d started to look forward to these chance meetings. Enjoying each moment with these men, basking in the attention they showed her, the flirting words and accidental touches of Gabe, and Lincoln’s deep eyes focused on her as he quizzed her about rock history.

“Of course.” Gabe’s British accent made him sound overly polite as he spoke. Though she knew he was anything but. He took a step closer to her, so she could smell the aftershave and warm sweat from his performance dabbled on his skin.

“Let’s start with what you two are planning.” Mallory looked back and forth between them, trying to determine the direction of their thoughts.

“We were trying to determine how to get you into bed with us,” Gabe stated matter-of-factly. He glided closer to her, fitting into one side like a key in a lock, while Lincoln circled around to the other, making her feel like she was being surrounded by hungry sharks.

She smiled, the twirl in her stomach increasing, as if she’d swallowed three of the helicopters she could hear circling the musical extravagance in the sky. They’d been flirting with her since the moment they’d met her. Every time she bumped into Lincoln and Gabe, they’d whisper wickedly seductive nothings in her ear that made her pussy gush with need. But there was a purr to Gabe’s voice today that held more promise than it usually did. As if this time he planned to make good on his flirts.

It wasn’t professional. She knew that. But it wasn’t uncommon for rock-and-roll journalists to get involved with their subjects. She probably should put a stop to it, but she’d be lying if she said she didn’t enjoy the attention of two gorgeous rock stars who could have any woman they wanted.

It wasn’t like they really meant any of it. Like all the other musicians she’d met, they were all talk and no follow-through.

“Right,” Mallory huffed. “That’s not enough to shut me up.”

“We don’t want to shut you up.” Gabe’s hand traced her left side, the touch combined with his lyrical accent made her shiver, regardless of the almost-January cool air. His bleach-blond surfer boy looks contradicted his British heritage. “We want to make you scream in the New Year with us.”

Delaney’s Sunrise by Rhonda Lee Carver

2011-06-17T00:07:00.000-07:00

Title: Delaney’s Sunrise

Author: Rhonda Lee Carver

Author Website

Release Date: June 20, 2011

Publisher: Lyrical Press

Buy Link
Genre: Romance

Blurb: Five years ago, Dee Crawford's engagement to Jacob Delaney ended in death. Jacob's secrets followed him to his grave--and chased Dee from Delaney's Farm, and from his brother Abe's forbidden embrace. Yet when her own secrets send her back to Ohio and right into Abe Delaney's arms, old guilt comes to light, old passions reignite, and Jacob's secrets return to haunt them with more than just his memory. Someone in town wants Dee gone, and will do anything to stop her from uncovering the truth about her fiance's death. If Dee is to survive, she must expose Jacob's long-buried secrets...and expose her heart to Abe. Only by admitting their love can they ease the guilt that has plagued them for years. But will love be enough to save Dee when the next death on Delaney's Farm may be her own?

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, Rhonda Lee Carver. I’m so pleased you could join me today. What is your Sizzling Release?
My sizzling release is Delaney’s Sunrise.

What is Delaney’s Sunrise all about?

Can anyone say “Hot corporate businessman turns dirty, sexy farmer” ?

Hmmm...that sounds interesting! How did you come up with the idea?
I am known for my bad-ass heroes and second chances. I also wanted to have the story set locally. Secrets destroy—and Delaney’s is full of secrets and exposing the truth. With the focus on revealing secrets, I added a bit of mystery, a dash of spice and a whole lotta love and came up with an edge-of-your-seat, jam-packed drama storyline.

What are you working on now?
I am working on another paranormal. I had so much fun writing Castle’s Fortress, releasing in September, I couldn’t wait to dive into another paranormal romance. The title is: Dreaming Ivy. Heroine journalist meets ghost-hunting sexy hero. When they are tossed into a haunted house to hunt paranormal activity, will the equipment ignite with sightings of ghosts or the heat from Ivy and Max’s chemistry? Readers won’t want to miss this story. It’s a bit of time travel mixed with paranormal and a chemistry that draws two different people from polar opposite worlds together.

Do you have an evil day job, and if you do, how do you find time to write?

Right now, I’m a full-time writer and a freelance editor. With two young ones, finding time to write is like trying to find time to relax—not easy.

What sparks your imagination and gets your juices flowing?

I have to feel my story. I have to believe in my characters, envelop myself into their world and reflect their emotions and thoughts. It’s like stepping through a mirror and being right there with them as I write their story. Nothing gets me more creative than conflict between my characters. I love it when they are verbally ripping each other apart only to rush into each other’s arms to apologize with a delicious romp in the sack.

It’s June and summer is upon us. Do you have any vacation plans?

Oh, I wish… (sigh) So far no plans…

What is your favorite vacation memory?

The Beach. And the beach. And did I mention the beach? I love the ocean and the smells and the sunlight.

Men: Speedo or trunks?

Depends on the man.

Ladies: Bikini, one-piece, tankini, or shorts and a t-shirt?
For me, I’d choose the bikini and ocean any day.

Lake, river or ocean?

Ocean

Surfing or skiing?

Neither. Unless surfing the web is an option.

Snorkeling or scuba diving?

Snorkeling

Thank you so much for being here. Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know?

Please stop and check out my new blog.

Friend me on Facebook

And before we go, can we get a juicy excerpt from Delaney’s Sunrise?

Of course.

EXCERPT:

“Abe,” she started, then stopped to moisten her lips. “I’m not here to cause problems. Can’t we just let go of the past and start a new friendship?”

The muscles clenched in his neck. She waited for him to snap.

“Let go?” His words were laced with anger. “It may be easy for you to forget the past, Dee, but he was my brother. Dammit, Jacob was my brother!”

“And he was my fiancé.”

“He was your fiancé for two months. He was my brother for twenty-six years.” His hands clenched into fists, and the line of his jaw hardened.

She exhaled and tucked a tendril of hair behind her ear. The breeze picked up, carrying his scent to her nostrils. She inhaled the masculine smell. It brought back the familiar feeling of when his kisses had melted her. She moistened her bottom lip and silently swore as neglected muscles throbbed.

“This isn’t a contest to see who has more of a right to mourn Jacob’s death, Abe.” She refused to look away. “We both loved him and lost him, and together we buried him. If we can’t get along for any other reason, it should be for his memory.” She rolled her next words around her mind before she continued. “He left me his share of Delaney’s Farm because he wanted me here.”

He laughed. “Who the hell do you think you’re talking to, Dee? Last I looked, I didn’t have easily manipulated written across my forehead.” His lip curled. The explosion was coming, but she didn’t back away. “Look at you, Dee.” He ran his gaze over her frame. He should have just licked her from forehead to toes. It evoked the same feeling. “You don’t belong here. You come here in your fancy clothes and your shiny shoes and place yourself smack dab in the middle of my life. You believe you belong here because my brother willed you his half of the farm? You have no rights.” He turned on a booted heel and stalked to the railing, placing both hands on it. “Although Jacob owned half, he didn’t have the right to give it to you.”

“I offered to sign it over to you, remember? We were sitting in the attorney’s office after the reading of the will and I told you I didn’t want the farm. I knew it wasn’t right for me to have it.” Her heavy sigh seemed to slice through the tension. “You refused to let me sign my share over to you.”

He gripped the wood railing until his knuckles turned white. “Are you here to make that offer again?”

Dee clasped her hands tightly. To Abe, she was just a lingering sign of Jacob’s rebellion. If Jacob had willed her his half of the farm, it was--in Abe’s mind--just another impulsive act in a long string of impulses that had centered around Dee. Jacob hadn’t been thinking clearly, Abe had said. After Jacob’s death, he’d accused her of clouding both their minds with her hypnotic poison.

He turned. His emotions seemed under control, and his triple-layered wall appeared back in place. “Are you going to answer me? Are you here to make that offer again?”

She narrowed her eyes. “No.”

He pushed away from the rail and brushed past her. She kept her gaze on his back as he stomped off the porch. “That’s fine,” he muttered. “You’ll run again. The sooner, the better.”

The Promise by Tory Richards

2011-06-07T00:07:00.000-07:00

Title: The Promise

Author: Tory Richards

Author Website

Release Date: April 2011

Publisher: Liquid Silver Books

Buy Link

Genre: Erotic Contemporary Romance

Blurb: Shannon Hayes’ husband David was killed in Iraq nearly a year ago, and now she must face her first holiday season without him. With a toddler in tow, she travels to the Vermont farm where the rest of the family has gathered for the holidays. There she comes face to face with the man who was with him when he died, and her destiny, his older brother Ryan.

For the first time in years, Ryan returns home to keep a promise he made to David—to take care of Shannon and their daughter. It’s a pledge Ryan is reluctant to keep because he’s been secretly in love with Shannon since first setting eyes on her. Their attraction to each other is instant, intense and soon the promise isn’t the only thing between them.

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, Tory Richards. I’m so pleased you could join me today.

What is The Promise all about?

It’s a story that takes place at a Vermont farm during the holiday season, where a large family has gathered to celebrate. A Marine returns home to fulfill a promise he made to his dying brother, to take care of his wife. A woman he’s been secretly in love with for years.

My son is a Marine, I already love the story! How did you come up with the idea?

I was married to a man who had 9 siblings, where as I only had one sister. During the holidays when we all got together I was able to witness the interactions going on and there was never a dull moment. The romantic elements in the story are strictly from my imagination.

As a multi-published author, what advice do you have for those just beginning a career as a writer?

Never give up! You will receive rejections but learn from them and go on. And revise, revise, revise!

I know the readers will want to know about your backlist, Tory. What do you have available?

Beginning with the first one published there’s Cupid’s Arrow, The Senator’s Daughter, It’s All in the Jeans, Wicked Desire, The Cowboy Way, All the Right Moves, Talk Dirty to Me, Breathless Surrender, Someone to Love Me, and Her Hands-On Man. I have another one due out sometime next year called The Mercenary Way.

Wow, you have quite a library there! What are you working on now?

I have a couple projects in the works. Both short erotic romances. One about a plus size model and the other involves a motorcycle gang.

Do you have an evil day job, and if you do, how do you find time to write?

Yes, I do work days. Writing is a hobby for me and something I do when I feel like it. Usually in the evenings and on my days off.

LOL You seem to have done quite a lot with that "hobby" of yours! What sparks your imagination and gets your juices flowing?

Anything can spark my imagination.

What does your family and friends think about you being a published author?

They’re the reason I pursued getting published, they gave me the encouragement I needed. They’re thrilled! Before that I was a closet writer. I didn’t tell anyone that I wrote because it was very personal and private to me.

It’s June and summer is upon us. Do you have any vacation plans?

Well, I just returned from a road trip to Maine (I live in Florida). I hadn’t been home in 13 years and it was time to reconnect with family. I might take a short cruise with a good friend, and then we have a family cruise planned for later on.

That sounds like fun. What is your favorite vacation memory?

Oh my goodness, there are so many! Before the grandkids came along my daughter and niece were my traveling buddies. We always have so much fun together. I don’t know that I can narrow it down to one, honestly.

Men: Speedo or trunks?

Trunks!

Ladies: Bikini, one-piece, tankini, or shorts and a t-shirt?

Bikini

Lake, river, or ocean?

Lake

Surfing or water skiing?

Surfing

Snorkeling or scuba diving?

Snorkeling

Thank you so much for being here. Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know? Only that I love hearing from them and thank you again for hosting me today.

My pleasure, Tory. Before we go, can we get a juicy excerpt from The Promise?

With pleasure! And since you said juicy, I hope it’s not too hot.

EXCERPT:

“I want to help you,” she insisted in a whisper, wondering why she was so

determined. Except, Shannon knew it was important that she save Ryan from himself. He was a prisoner of his soul.

“At three o’clock in the morning?” he snorted with heavy sarcasm. “You have no idea how to help me.” His hands tightened as if he couldn’t help it.

“Let me try,” she insisted, undaunted by the grit in his voice.

Shannon’s hands came up to rest upon his chest. She waited for him to push her

away, but he didn’t and she was forced to endure the scorching heat of his hard flesh. She felt his muscles flex beneath her palms. Recalling their passionate kiss outside the bar stirred her blood until a volcano erupted inside her. Was helping him just an excuse to enter his room? Maybe she wanted another kiss, or more, his hands on her. Intimate and exploring her into a mind blowing orgasm.

Why didn’t he push her away?

“Why does it matter so much to you, Shannon?”

“That’s what family is for.” Her voice was hoarse with emotion. “We’re here for each other.”

He stared down at her for a long moment. Shannon wondered what he was thinking.

“Family?” His harsh laughter seemed out of place in the dark. “I can look at you until my damn eyes fall out and I’d never see you as a sister. Even now—”

He cut himself off, as if it occurred to him that he was about to divulge something too personal, or perhaps a weakness.

A long time went by when all Shannon heard was the sound of their breathing, and the screech of an owl off in the distance. The house was deathly quiet. Finally, she couldn’t stand it any longer. “Are you okay, Ryan?” Shannon wanted to reach out and touch him, but she was afraid.

“You want to help me, Shannon?” Something in his tone warned her she should turn and run back to her room, but that same something excited her into staying. “This is the only way you can help me.”

In one smooth move, Ryan pulled her over to the bed with him and pushed her down, following her until he covered her with his half-naked body.

Gasping with surprise, Shannon found her mouth being ground beneath his. She struggled, but if he noticed, he didn’t let that or his split lip stop him from stealing her breath. Then his hands took hold of her wrists and pinned them to the bed. Against her will, she responded when he arched his hips into the lower half of her body. His thick, hard cock slid into the crevice between her legs and brushed against her clit.

Shannon moaned and became aware of other sensations brought upon by her

squirming. She arched in hunger, thrust against his erection with sharp accuracy, wishing they were naked and he was sliding into her. She moved her hips again, rewarded when Ryan ground his shaft against her.

He groaned and shuddered, slid his tongue inside her mouth, swallowing her sound of pleasure. For a spellbinding moment, they were caught up in the heat of the moment. She was no longer interested in freedom. Her hands weren’t pushing against his chest, but had gone to his shoulders and roamed his back in heated caresses, nails lightly scraping defined muscles. Her hips strained upwards to meet his as he ground his hard-on into the sweet, hot place between her thighs.

She welcomed his hand beneath her pajama top as he claimed her breast, palming the globe and flicking his thumb over the burgeoning nipple. Her response was wild and wanton, encouraged him to continue, as she silently begged him to do even more. Ryan tore his mouth from hers, pushed her top out of the way and took her nipple into his mouth.

“Oh, God!” Shannon hissed beneath him, in nothing more than a whisper. She

arched her back, holding his head against her flesh. She was throbbing below, where his shaft provided enough friction on her clit to make her burst with sweet release. His mouth returned to hers, and he kissed her savagely while his hand skimmed down her body, snaking inside her pajama bottoms and cupping her bottom. And Shannon thought, this is it, he was going to slide her bottoms down and take her.

All at once, a muffled noise penetrated their sounds of hunger. Ryan froze.

* * * *

A little about Tory Richards…

Tory is a multi-published, best-selling author who was born in Maine but lives in Florida with three crazy cats. She likes to travel, preferably by cruise ship, and doesn’t like to fly but she will if she has to. She collects antiques and art, loves chocolate (who doesn’t?) and good coffee.

Tory has wanted to be a writer since she was a kid, but life got in the way of her dreams. A few years ago, with the support and encouragement of her family, she decided to get serious. Her romances are laced with humor and filled with suspense and sizzling sex.

* * * *

Tory's Links:

WEBSITE

BLOG

FACEBOOK

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In Her Closet by T. Harrison

2011-06-03T11:17:00.000-07:00

Title: In Her Closet

Author: T. Harrison

Author Website

Release Date: May 27, 2010

Publisher: Dirtyscribbler Press

Buy Link

Genre: Contemporary/erotic romance

Blurb: Fresh off of a night of anonymous sex we join, Yves Santiago on the curb for a cigarette. Yves is a self-proclaimed slut who vows to live her life as carelessly as a man and make no apologies for any of it--though her meddling mother and ex-fiancé seem intent on making it difficult for her to do. She’s determined to avoid anything that looks even remotely like love and escapes most encounters with her heart and her pride intact.

Until she meets Elijah Weinstein…

Elijah saunters in like a dream proclaiming to be the next great love of her life--a declaration that Yves finds ridiculous, though it doesn't make him any less enticing. With his moss green eyes, broad, sun-kissed shoulders and a mouth so sensual that it should have an NC-17 rating, Elijah Weinstein is damn near irresistible. She willingly accepts his challenge, certain she will be able to get what she wants without relinquishing her heart.

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, T. Harrison. I’m so pleased you could join me today. What is your Sizzling Release?

In Her Closet, my first contemporary, erotic novel

What is In Her Closet all about?

In Her Closet is about a young woman named Yves Santiago that lives in South Philadelphia. She is what I like to call, delightfully effed up. She smokes, she drinks, she sleeps around but, eventually she makes it to the happily ever after she deserves.

Hmmm, sounds a tad familiar! How did you come up with the idea?

Over the years, I’ve read lots of romance and erotic romance novels and I found myself getting bored with the perfect, virginal, naïve heroine. I set out to create a heroine that is the complete opposite and bring her around in the end.

I know this is book number one in the series Yves Santiago Stories. Did you begin writing with a series in mind, or did your muse take over?

I didn’t set out with the idea to write a series. I thought Yves’ story was told after this novel was complete. Yves, however, had other ideas. I’m editing the third book in the series now. I can only hope she will shut her cake hole so I can write something else!

As a multi-published author, what advice do you have for those just beginning a career as a writer?

I am multi-published but all four of my titles are self-published. I’ve been writing for years but, I found that the stories that I pen do not firmly fit into any genre. My advice to novice writers is to keep writing and never lose faith in yourself. If you feel very strongly that you produce a product that people will want to read, do all you can to make that happen.

Tell the readers about your backlist.

I have two novellas to my credit, The Undoing of Langston Black and LoveWanderlust. I also have one teeny short story pubbed in Sommer Marsden’s Dirtyville.

What are you working on now?

A lot of things, lol. I’m editing Having it Both Ways, the third (and hopefully final) book in the Yves Santiago stories. I’m also sketching out a paranormal series. I have no idea when these books will be ready for publication. They require so much research and world-building that I have to give myself a break from it from time to time. I also have several more contemporary erotic romances waiting in the wings. Time will tell which steps up next in line.

Do you have an evil day job, and if you do, how do you find time to write?

No evil day job but, I am a fulltime mom. One would argue that it’s the most underpaid, over-worked job force out there. I usually squeeze my writing time into the 8 hours they are in school. Don’t know what I’m going to do now that school's out! *eep!*

What sparks your imagination and gets your juices flowing?

I love music. Often a lyric will plant a story seed but, I am also very visual. I keep a sketch diary. I doodle little story notes to myself and often refer to them when I begin to craft my stories.

What does your family and friends think about you being a published author?

My true friends are very supportive. My family is accepting. I have a few family members who have bought and read my titles. I have been cornered at a family event to ‘discuss’ the plot. Mostly it’s been positive.

It’s June and summer is upon us. Do you have any vacation plans?

The Beach. Which way is the beach? We lived in Virginia Beach for several years and as soon as it warms up I always get that hankerin’ for salt water.

What is your favorite vacation memory?

All of my vacation memories center on family. I feel that if I’m with my family and we’re all having a good time, it’s a good memory.

Men: Speedo or trunks?

Trunks

Ladies: Bikini, one-piece, tankini, or shorts and a t-shirt?

Bikini

Lake, river, or ocean?

Ocean

Surfing or water skiing?

Water skiing

Snorkeling or scuba diving?

Neither, I can’t swim. Don’t judge me.

Thank you so much for being here. Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know?

Thank you all for stopping by and suffering through my social awkwardness. As a reward, I’m giving away a KINDLE to a random commenter! Please tell me what sort of romance/erotic romance tropes you are sick of reading or want to clue me in on what you would really like to read!

And before we go, can we get a juicy excerpt from In Her Closet?

(I’m going to assume that you mean sexy when you say juicy, ;) Thanks again for having me!)

EXCERPT:

Two a.m. finds me in The Dip, a crowded reggae club, where I proceed to get drunk off too much Jamaican rum, wind my hips and enjoy the heady press of bodies. Jamaican men have a way of making you feel desirable even if you are the homeliest girl in the room. I know it’s shallow but, I like to feel their eyes on me. I want to know that they think I’m sexy and beautiful. I like knowing that I can have any one of them in the room. Like him--the cute, shy boy eyeing me over the rim of his glass.

You, I say with my eyes, you are my man.

I slide through the crowd and take his hand, drawing him out into my dance. A dancehall mix of Bob Marley’s Reaction is pulsing from the speakers. ‘Talkin’ ‘bout reaction…Talkin’ ‘bout attraction’, Bob sings.

His hands find my hips and my hands trace the contours of his chest. A smile comes to his lips as our eyes meet, deep dimples hollowing out each cheek. He has a sweet face, almost innocent. He takes my hands to drape my arms around his neck and when his hands find my hips again, it’s to pull me in closer, tighter. His thigh is firmly wedged between mine and I dip, wind and rock my waist in time to Bob’s wailing. It’s a slow grind and he finds my rhythm and matches it perfectly.

Yes, my body agrees, you are the one.

I lose myself in the throbbing bass. The air is hot and close, heavy with breath and body heat. With every gyration our bodies become more and more slick with sweat. Bob is singing, ‘to every little action, there’s a reaction’. I act and he reacts, our bodies a perfect counterpoint, keeping time with the easy skanking rhythm.

I turn in his embrace. Pressing my back into his chest. Now we’re undulating in a wave. One of his hands is spread wide and low over my belly, guiding my hips in the direction he wants to go. Our hips press together seamlessly. His strong thighs flex as he positions his denim-clad cock against the cleft of my behind. I roll my hips against it and let my dress ride high. A keen longing begins to melt the place between my thighs. I’m sending all the right signals. Signals that say, I want to feel your mouth on my skin. I want your cock inside me, grinding slow and deep and hard like this rhythm we’re riding.

T. Harrison is an erotic romance author currently living in the south with her impish husband, two smallish men and one smallish boxer pup. She can often be found with her nose pressed to the screen of her Kindle, reading red hot erotica, nail biting thrillers or bone chilling horror and paranormals by the small halo of illumination created by her book light. She writes stave off the boredom of living in a small town. Her stories generally fluctuate from urban/contemporary to paranormal romance but, are always dirty.

T. Harrison can be reached at authortharrison(at)gmail(dot)com and she can also be found @dirtyscribbler on Twitter.

Relics of Nanthara: Secrets Revealed, Book 1 by Nick G. Giannaras

2011-06-03T00:04:00.000-07:00

Title: Relics of Nanthara: Secrets Revealed, Book 1

Author: Nick G. Giannaras

Author Website
Release Date: June 3, 2011

Publisher: Muse It Up Publishing

Buy Link

Genre: YA/Fantasy

Blurb:

Determined to find the truth to the ancient prophecies, young Courtar defies his elders and journeys alone where he gains the unexpected friendship of a Dwergen, a shunned race once thought to be extinct. After hiring a jailed Alkanien as a guide to Mhoren, they begin gathering strangers of various backgrounds who, unbeknownst to them, complete a foretelling of the formation of an alliance destined to destroy the abomination. Yet the group’s inner conflicts could prove a thorn in their stability and negate the promises of victory.

Finding two surviving soldiers whose village was destroyed, they escort the alliance along a treacherous path toward Mhoren. Their undertaking almost fails during a harrowing escape from enemy troops as they flee into the kingdom of Mhoren. Gaining the friendship of Mhoren’s hierarchy, the alliance’s mission becomes clear after exposing a far reaching sinister plot led by the king’s half-brother, Fendis. His dark motives encouraging the Dark One’s rise to power come to fruition when the king is assassinated, forcing the alliance’s pursuit to his home where they uncover important secrets and hidden clues, including the location of the Crown of Sovereign.

With clues in hand, the alliance heads north into the Alkani realm of Isenvayle where good relations are established. Realizing a foulskin horde invaded the Alkani kingdom, the group detours east to evade invading troops and are thrown into battle in a neighboring realm. As hardships and trials abound, the alliance reaches Maugal Deep where the Crown of Sovereign lies. After battling a vicious demonic messenger, an unforeseen twist and an unexpected encounter befall them, jeopardizing the entire mission. Can the alliance gain possession of the crown and stop the commencement of the Dark One’s domination before they kill each other?

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, Nick Giannaras. I’m so pleased you could join me today. What is your Sizzling Release?

Thank you for having me! My release is my first novel in an epic YA fantasy entitled Secrets Revealed. It’s part of the Relics of Nanthara trilogy.

What is Relics of Nanthara: Secrets Revealed all about?

Secrets Revealed follows an impetuous adolescent cleric whose interest in an

ancient and almost disregarded prophecy creates an alliance of outcasts who fight against time to gain possession of four forgotten relics before the Dark One brings his reign upon the earth. The adventure helps to shape their character through their trials and tribulations. Needless to say, some of them need more help than others.

This brings to mine C.S. Lewis. How did you come up with the idea?

Years ago, I used to play Dungeons & Dragons. Yep, I did. After I quit playing, for several years I’ve always said, “Man, that would make a good book.” But I never wrote it. Then one day, a lady spoke into my life and said, “God said you have untapped talents within you. Use them.” That was five years ago, and I haven’t stopped since.

I know this is book number 1 in the series Relics of Nanthara. Did you begin writing with a series in mind, or did your muse take over?

I knew the story would pan out to at least several books. It was too big to compile under one cover. Book 1, Secrets Revealed, and Book 2, Sacrifice of Heroes, was as far as I got with everything already laid out in my head. I reverted to my muse for Book 3, Dawn of the Apocalypse.

This is your first published work, which must be very exciting for you. What was it like for you to write your first book and get published?
Getting the first book accepted acted three fold on me. First, it was a major load and relief off me, yet I knew it would be published. I just had to wait on the right timing. Second, I became euphoric. That lasted almost two weeks! Third, it ended up fueling me to write even more; an urgency to write in order to reach others. “Write to reach”…I like that.

What are you working on now?

Lots of stuff. At this moment, I am near completion with Book 3, Dawn of the Apocalypse. This is my primary project.

I also have in the works the following: a Civil War historical fiction, Enemy Within the Ranks; another fantasy series in Nanthara, Sons of the Trident; the premise of another fantasy settled in Nanthara, We Came To Die; and a sci-fi superhero series, The Nuclear Fist Chronicles. Book 1, Darksoul is over half-way done, and the premise of Book 2, The Clockman has been established.

Do you have an evil day job, and if you do, how do you find time to write?

I am a practicing chiropractor. I write in between patients, during lunch, and at home when the kids are asleep. Little here and there helps a bunch.

I wish you lived near me! lol What sparks your imagination and gets your juices flowing?

Artwork, a movie scene, mood music specific to the genre I am writing about. The historical fiction dealing with the Civil War was easy. Besides having lots of period music I’ve reenacted for 15 years. So, I have much to draw from.

What does your family and friends think about you being a published author?

They love it and are inspired by what is happening to me. I use this to help encourage them to write or press forward to reach their successes in life. It’s not about me, it’s about others.

It’s June and summer is upon us. Do you have any vacation plans?

Perhaps visit relatives, but if we stay home this year, I’d be happy. It gives me family time and time to write.

What is your favorite vacation memory?

Originally being from Tarpon Springs, Florida, and on the west coast, I’ve seen all the beach, bikinis, jet skis, waterspouts, and sun anyone could stand. No biggie to me. My favorite vacation memories are anything involving my family.

Thank you so much for being here. Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know?

I encourage you to share my works with the youth, teens, even adults for an entertaining read with a message. There are enough books out there today filled with poor lessons that fill our youths with wrongful teachings. My stories, as well as others here at MuseItUp, have something better to give. Try us. You’ll like us.

And before we go, can we get a juicy excerpt from Relics of Nanthara: Secrets Revealed?

“It looks like we have trouble,” Vindicar said.

   Sir Angelo gave a casual observation of the Evanien troopers and the surrounding activity swirling around the party. The horsemen moved to block off the intersection, eliminating possible paths of escape.

   Out of the corner of his eye, Courtar caught Azin slowly reaching for his weapons. His eyes bulged in fear, wanting to grab Azin’s arm and stop him. Instead, Isaac grabbed the assassin’s wrist, impeding the partly withdrawn blade. A small snarl curled Azin’s upper lip as he glared at Isaac.

   “Not now…not yet,” Isaac whispered, eyeing the Evanien soldiers.

   Azin’s lips mouthed a smart retort. Nevertheless, he released the blade and relaxed under the soldier’s observation.

   “Everyone hold,” Jaspar said.

   No weapons were drawn as they approached the alert guards. As the group neared the intersection, a loud command bellowed from a mounted officer. “Halt!” The horsemen moved into action, surrounding the alliance with swords and short lances drawn. Civilians scattered.

   Courtar gulped. E’Umae looked at him. “Hold your composure. Now is not the time to get nervous.”

   As E’Umae shared her words of encouragement, Courtar’s attention focused down one of the connecting cobblestone streets where he spied a large wooden gallows guarded by Evanien troops, the nooses full of motionless civilians. Next to the apparatus stood a cart choked full of newly slain commoners of all ages.

   Courtar tugged on E’Umae’s sleeve, directing her gaze down the dreadful road. “Yes, it is.”

   “What is the problem, sergeant?” Sir Angelo asked with a calm disposition.

   “You and your misfits are under arrest,” the sergeant said. No smile broke his rugged, short-bearded face.

   Sir Angelo stood with both hands up in a submissive gesture. “Under what charges?”

   Foot soldiers now moved in to help surround the group. The crowd had circumvented a large area around the confrontation, keeping the alliance centralized under Evanien scrutiny.

   Courtar watched the sergeant’s grip on the horse’s reigns tightened—the leather creaking under the strain. He slipped behind E’Umae in order to hinder the officer’s field of view.

   The sergeant spat onto the ground at Sir Angelo’s feet. “My men overheard your group speaking on forbidden topics, poison in this realm.”

   Sir Angelo’s eyes showed a hint of narrowing, and his jaw muscles flexed.

   “Oh, oh. He’s getting mad,” Courtar whispered.

   E’Umae shoved her elbow back into Courtar’s stomach. A small gasp hushed him.

   “Like what?” Jaspar asked.

   The sergeant pointed at E’Umae and Courtar. “Those two miscreants spoke of Sovereign and prayer. Filthy talk such as theirs is grounds for the gallows.” He directed one of his foot soldiers to shove Jaspar out of the way, exposing Sir Angelo’s attire. “Heh, another knight who believes in ghosts.”

   The Evanien soldiers laughed; others spat on Sir Angelo.

   “Taking the blood of a knight of Temple Sovereign without justification has harsh repercussions. I suggest you conjure a more effective charge against us, or let us pass.”

   A malevolent stare burned in the sergeant’s eyes. “Your insolence will be paid with your life, you foulskin misbreed.” Several of the horsemen moved in, tightening their noose around the party with looming iron spear tips ready to thrust, allowing two men to move in and grab E’Umae, one by the back of her cloak, the other by her hair, and drag her violently out of the streets.

   E’Umae screamed as she fought against her captors, yet to no avail.

   Courtar slipped by Boren’s grasp and moved toward the soldiers. “In the name of Sovereign, I command you to stop!”

   In an instant, the Evanien troops focused on Courtar and stopped for a moment. Perfect for the alliance to shift into improved angles of attack.

   The sergeant growled. “Take that boy and stretch his scrawny neck as well. Use it as a lesson for anyone else who wants to shoot his mouth off.”

   “Eh, we can take ‘em,” Boren whispered.

   “Hold, Boren,” Sir Angelo replied in a soft tone.

   With reluctance, Boren obliged as Courtar and E’Umae yelled and struggled against their captors.

   Sir Angelo didn’t move. He smiled with his hands folded loosely in front of his belly. The alliance mimicked him.

   The sergeant’s fist slammed his saddle in anger and spittle flew. “And take the pompous knight as well. For him, tell the men to ready the axe. His head will serve as a nice trophy to our collection.”

   Two Evanien spearmen moved toward Sir Angelo. The paladin lowered his head, his gaze fixed upon the approaching troops. His arrogant voice bellowed in confidence. “I think not.”

   A crossbow string thwacked. The commotion forced the soldiers dragging Courtar and E’Umae to stop. Courtar could see a bolt embedded up to the fletching through a horseman’s throat. His gasp for air was blotted out by gurgling blood as he fell over dead on the cobblestones.

   Sir Angelo’s effective parries from two different foot soldiers allowed him to slash the face of one soldier then finished him with a thrust through his chest. Isaac stepped beside him and split open the second soldier’s side in a bloody repulse.

   Dreg lunged toward the sergeant and grabbed his lance. With a mighty roar, the barbarian yanked him off his horse. The sergeant crashed onto the street and rolled over onto his back long enough to look up and see a longsword punch straight into his chest. Jaspar removed his blade and continued the fight.

   Vindicar flowed with Alkanien grace as he unsheathed his bastard sword and splintered the lance of another horseman in one smooth, fluid motion. When the lance shattered, the soldier sat but a second before Azin flipped a front hand spring over the back of the horse, and landed with his blade red. The cavalier teetered for a moment before slumping onto his horse’s neck, coating the mane with blood.

   With Boren cleaving the front limbs off one horse, the thrashing mount crushed his rider underneath and kicked another foot soldier and snapped his leg at the thigh, thus buying the alliance a moment of time.

   “Run!” Sir Angelo said. The entire party broke from the encirclement, running pell-mell for Evershaw.

   Courtar took advantage of his guard’s diversion, whipped out his mace, and smashed the soldier in the back of the head. The spray of blood and flesh startled him and drew the attention of E’Umae’s guard.

   Courtar ducked as the sodier lunged with his spear, missing the cleric, yet stabbing a bystander through the chest. E’Umae ran behind the man, grasped his temples with both hands, and yelled an unusual phrase. In a flash, a light spell burst forth from the man’s eyes, forcing him to drop his spear and drop to the street, clutching his eyes and face in agony.

   E’Umae looked to Courtar. “Run!”

   Another soldier jumped in front of Courtar and E’Umae, blocking their path of escape. The man’s snide grin faded as his head flew off his shoulders, the lifeless body teetering before falling to the ground.

   “Let’s go!” Boren yelled in front of them. All three ran and caught up with the others fleeing through the crowded streets.

   Courtar looked up and made out the parapets of Annotin’s eastern gate looming far off in the distance.The alliance ran from the reverberating alarm of blaring horns. Evanien soldiers poured out of side streets like roaches, scurrying after the alliance amid the scattering crowds.

   Courtar smacked into someone’s shoulder and bounced off another’s chest. An elbow thudded into his torso before he knocked down an unsuspecting patron. He saw Sir Angelo, Vindicar, and Dreg hammering people over in their hectic pace. Several small food carts and cloth canopies were overturned, crashing down with their goods sprawling everywhere as the alliance fled.

When We Meet Again by Dawne Prochilo

2011-05-20T00:05:00.000-07:00

Title: When We Meet Again

Author: Dawne Prochilo

Author Website

Release Date: May 9, 2011

Publisher: Secret Cravings Publishing

Buy Link

Genre: Contemporary/M/F/ Romance
Heat Level: 2

Blurb: How many of us have wished we could turn back the clock? Go back to one specific time that would change our lives forever and it would be exactly how we wanted it.

Brynn Saunders has wished that for over two decades and while she can't change her life, a strange twist of fate is giving her a second chance at her one true love.

Best friends Ethan Miller and Brynn have loved each other unconditionally since high school and while their lives were entwined early, they never shared the intimacy they felt for the other.

After an abusive marriage for Brynn and a loveless marriage for Ethan, they've reconnected twenty four years later and are acting upon what they never had the chance to do years ago.

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, Dawne Prochilo. I’m so pleased you could join me today. What is your Sizzling Release?

When We Meet Again, a contemporary romance.

What is When We Meet Again all about?

How many of us have wished we could turn back the clock? Go back to one
specific time that would change our lives forever and it would be exactly how we
wanted it. That's the basis of When We Meet Again.

I think we can all identify with that. I know I would love one big do-over! How did you come up with the idea?

This is a story of the proverbial “what-if” when it comes to love never discovered. Most of the story is a true experience for me with fiction added in. Every woman will be able to relate to this story of the one that got away. I just had to share the feelings and story.

As a multi-published author, what advice do you have for those just beginning their writing career?

Never give up and follow your dream.

What was it like for you to write your first book and get published?

I could barely contain my excitement. After opening dozens, if not hundreds of rejection emails and letters, imagine my surprise when I finally opened an email that said, “Yes, we would like to offer you a contract for your work.” I don't think I slept that night.

Tell the readers about your backlist.

July 2009- On Her Own

July 2009- Crape Myrtle

February 2011- Room 11

February 2011- Sex Sells: Are You Buying?

March 2011- Rachel's Desire

May 2011- When We Meet Again

What are you working on now?

I'm working on numerous novellas for three different publishers. All my current WIP's are erotic romances and I'm attempting my first menage (F/F/M).

Do you have an evil day job, and if you do, how do you find time to write?

Yes, I do but I absolutely love it. I work part-time in the office for a non-profit camp for special needs children and adults. Since I only work 2-3 days per week, this leaves plenty of time for me to write and create.

Is there something in particular that sparks you to write something new?

Not that I can think of. One night while watching television, a commercial came on for eggs (think the incredible edible egg) and my mind wandered (a normal occurrence) and I immediately came up with a F/F holiday novella. Imagine wireless remote control vibrating egg, two female friends and loads of fun.

What does your family and friends think about you being a published author?

My family? Oy! My parents aren't real sure what it is exactly that I write. My mom says my novel covers are real pretty and my dad asks if he has to buy the books in the back of a store and bring them out in a brown paper bag. My children- son, who is 24, is clueless (but then again, aren't most men), my 22 year old daughter is thrilled with my success and my youngest daughter, 18, is embarrassed- lol.

It’s May-do you celebrate Cinco De Mayo?

No, I do not. I'm not one for holidays in general. I'm a party-pooper I guess but that's just me.

Dos Equis or Corona?

Corona

Speaking of Cinco De Mayo, have you ever been to Mexico?

Never been there and no, I'm not into traveling much.

And before we go, can we get a juicy excerpt from When We Meet Again?

Of course!

EXCERPT - When We Meet Again

He put the truck in park and took off his seatbelt. He leaned over and slowly undid hers. On the outside Brynn appeared calm and ready to share their first kiss but on the inside she was shaking and a jumble of nerves. They waited over twenty-four years to share this moment and she wasn't sure she was ready for it yet.

Ethan gently cupped her cheeks and took her face in his hands. Their eyes met. Her green eyes were sparkling with anticipation and the unknown while his hazel eyes filled with amorous longing. Without breaking contact he lowered his mouth to hers.

The second their lips met, the passion they'd been holding in finally released. She tasted the saltiness on his lips and when he plunged his tongue into her mouth she became greedy and feverishly tried to taste every inch of his mouth.

He kissed her with total abandoned hunger and she yearned for more. When he tried to pull away, she leaned in for more and he obliged her silent request.

He slipped his hand behind her neck and pulled her in closer. Her hands reached out, grappled his shirt in her fists and tightened their clench. She repositioned herself on the seat to shorten the distance between their bodies.

Their mouths ravenously searched the others' for more. After a few moments Brynn pulled away and laid her forehead on Ethan's shoulder.

“Wow,” she whispered. When she raised her head and opened her eyes seconds later his eyes were gazing intently on her.

“Yeah, I second that wow,” he smiled, reaching over and tenderly brushing aside a few strands of her blonde hair that had fallen forward covering her cheek.

Dawn's On Line At:

Blog Blast 2011! Interview With Rie McGaha

2011-05-14T00:03:00.000-07:00

If you had to write yourself as a villain, what kind of villain would you be? What would you be named?

I'm not really the villainous type, although I write some pretty nasty ones in my books. I could probably pull off something like gun moll, backing up the gang, but I'm really not the criminal type.

What is the strangest source of writing inspiration you've ever had?

I guess it would be the inspiration for Blood Line since it came from a dream my husband had.

You come back from the dead as a spirit, what message are you trying to get across?

I would be checking up on my kids and watching over my grandchildren.

If you were a world ruler and you were given a choice of 3 laws to enact, what would they be?

First, anyone who abuses animals in any way gets the same treatment as their punishment

Second, anyone convicted of child abuse, rape, or molesting a child gets the death penalty, no appeals.

Third, hmmm...war would be a thing of the past.

If your muse were to talk behind your back, what secrets would he/she tell?

Melba has a contract that specifically prohibits her from saying anything about me ever. So far, she's done okay.

If you were a Superheroine/Hero, would you wear tights and a cape?

If Melba told you about the tights and cape, she's in for it!

You are told you have to meet one paranormal creature, no safeguards, what do you choose? What do you bring with you?

I would love to meet a werewolf and I'd bring fresh meat, just in case he's hungry, or try to get him to change to his human form so we could chat.

You have to ask a fictional character out on a date. Who would you ask and what would you do together?

That's an easy one. I'm madly in love with Caleb Jordan from my book, Deep Within My Heart. He's hot, sexy, and a PIRATE!!!

BUY LINK

Blurb:

When Calen MacLeod begins having dreams of an ethereal beauty who beckons to him, he passes it off as just having an itch he hasn't scratched in a long time. But when he leaves on a journey to find her, following the directions she's given him in his dreams, he begins to doubt his sanity. And when he finds himself high in the Mackinaw Mountains in a secret fortress with unicorns and a pink and white castle, surrounded by women, each one more beautiful than the next, it's a fantasy no man would want to wake up from. But Arianna is the only woman for Calen.

The women of the Fortress have lived in peace, hidden away from the humans who tried to annihilate them all. But now a 500-year-old demon is out to destroy the women's matriarch, Ariella, and he'll stop at nothing to complete his mission. When Calen MacLeod shows up, he throws a wrench into Damon's plans. Never let it be said Damon isn't ready for anything, but when he kidnaps Arianna and takes her to modern day San Francisco, is he ready to meet Calen, who will do anything to save his lady love?

EXCERPT- Calen (My Soul To Keep Bk #1)

"Da, we've returned with news you aren't going to like," Caleb called out.

William stood and turned to the trio. He raised his brows as he looked them over. "So who's this then?" He nodded toward the boy in Calen's arms.

"That's what you're not going to like, Da. We need to get the babe here to Margaret for care, and then we can tell you the tale."

William pulled the rope, and a loud bell rang out. A moment later, his sister-in-law Margaret came in from the kitchen, wiping her hands on a cloth.

"What is it you're wanting? I've bread to finish kneading if you want it for supper," she said, looking at William.

He sighed. The woman had no respect, but without her, he'd have never been able to raise his sons after their mother died.

Margaret turned toward Calen and Caleb and opened her arms. She walked over and wrapped all of them in a hug.

"My boys are home." She put a hand on each of their faces, patted their cheeks, and then nodded toward the boy. "And what have we here?"

Taking the child from Calen, she hugged him to her breast, then looked at the two grown men with questions in her eyes, but they shook their heads.

"Later," Calen said.

Margaret nodded. "Aren't you a sweet one?" she cooed to the little boy. He nuzzled closer to her, and she hugged him tightly.

"How old are you now? Can you show me?" He held up four fingers. "Oh, well, aren't you a big boy then? Can you tell me your name?"

"Arion," he said, barely above a whisper.

"Arion," Margaret repeated loudly and then headed back toward the kitchen door.

With his sons, William watched until the pair disappeared.

"He wouldn't even look at us," Caleb said with a shake of his head.

William grinned. "Like all of us, I s'pose he knows Margaret will get what she wants, so it's just as well to give it to her and get it over with."

They all chuckled and sat together. "So…" William looked at each of his sons. "Tell me

the story."

(Questions courtesy Dawn's Reading Nook)

Blog Blast 2011! Interview With G.A. Hauser

2011-05-14T00:02:00.000-07:00

If you had to write yourself as a villain, what kind of villain would you be? What would you be named?

I don’t really write about villains. Perhaps I already get flack for some of my female characters, like the uncaring Melanie Hughley and snooty Amelia Clary in Cruising. And of course there’s the wicked murderous Crissy Halloway in Mutley’s Crew. Personally I don’t see myself as any of those women, so I have no idea who I’d be.

What is the strangest source of writing inspiration you've ever had?

That’s another hard question. I get inspiration from everywhere and everything. I can’t recall one strange idea sticking out at me. I think of all the wonderful types of careers and different characteristics of people I know, and they inspire me.

You come back from the dead as a spirit, what message are you trying to get across?

Don’t hate! Be tolerant of others or I shall be your poltergeist. Stop spending so much time being angry, criticizing, and picking other people apart. Learn to say good things, and try and find something good to say for once.

If you were a world ruler and you were given a choice of 3 laws to enact, what would they be?

Allow same sex couples to marry. Death penalty for hate crimes, no appeals process. And chocolate is free. (I have to be reasonable, after all those serious laws.)

If your muse were to talk behind your back, what secrets would he/she tell?

That I want to come back as a gay man in my next life and be Mark Antonious Richfield.

If you were a Superheroine/Hero, would you wear tights and a cape?

Hmm. A superhero with tights and a cape? I’d be a superhero with a badge and a gun, or a BDU uniform and the word Military in my resume, or perhaps, I’d wear turnout gear and drive a big red truck. That’s a hero.

You are told you have to meet one paranormal creature, no safeguards, what do you choose? What do you bring with you?

I will meet my wolf-shaper shifter, Roman Burk and bring his lover, Charlie Mosby of course. Then I can watch and be amused.

You have to ask a fictional character out on a date. Who would you ask and what would you do together?

I’d ask Steve Miller out on a date, and ask him to pretend I am Mark Richfield. In bed.

BUY LINK

Blurb: If Gavin Mecklenburg thought his job of working on high voltage power lines in Seattle was risky, he was taking an even bigger chance for a disaster by messing around with his best friend's new boyfriend.

Trina Yamagachi was what Gavin called a 'serial engager'. She chewed men up and spit them out, breaking off relationships with men just before her wedding day.

Gavin met Trina one afternoon while buying a watch for himself at the jewelry store she worked for. He and beautiful Trina became best friends instantly. But when Gavin realizes that his new handsome neighbor- the one he has become infatuated with- is Toby Montgomery, Trina's latest conquest, Gavin doesn't know what to do.

As friendships are tested, and choices become harder, Gavin has to wonder if getting involved with his best friend's boyfriend is more trouble than it's worth.

Sometimes the rules of attraction and lust win and sometimes they make you lose, but in the end, it's all about finding the one you love and being true to your heart.

EXCERPT from My Best Friends Boyfriend:
Toby coasted his bicycle down the slight ramp and rolled to a stop next to his garage. He hit the remote and waited, wiping his face off on his shoulder because he was dripping wet. He walked the bike next to his Corvette, and used a rag to dry it off. Once he leaned the bike against the wall, he placed his helmet on a shelf and ran his hand through his wet hair. As he spun around with the intention of leaving the garage, he noticed someone standing at the open door. Gavin was there, holding a towel.
Toby melted at the sight. "You didn't have to do that."
"It was partially my fault. I delayed your ride." Gavin handed him the towel.
Toby took it, wiping his face and hair. "Thanks."
"Mind if I look at your car?"
"No. Be my guest." Toby turned on the garage light since thick cloud-cover came with the rain, making it feel like night. The sound of the downspouts running with water echoed in the cement parking area. He kept dabbing the towel on his neck and arms, his riding gear was soaked. As he continued to dry off, he admired Gavin in his denim blue and tight worn t-shirt. "I'm not bi."
Gavin turned to face him after checking out the Corvette's interior.
"Trina and I are just friends."
"She doesn't know that."
"I never led her on."
"You didn't tell her you were gay either."
"She never asked, and it didn't come up in conversation."
Gavin stared at the car, but Toby didn't know if he was looking at it or looking through it as he thought things out. "I put a new engine in it." Toby approached Gavin, connecting to his gaze. The blue color contrasting Gavin's dark brown hair was Toby's favorite combination in a man. The slight pout of Gavin's lips made Toby want to kiss him. He broke his stare on Gavin and brushed past him to the hood, opening it, and propping it up. "Three-fifty, V-eight, four hundred and fifty HPs. It's Tunnel Ram engine."
"Son of a bitch. You can eat off her."
When Gavin leaned over to have a look, Toby admired Gavin's ass in the tight pants. He draped the towel around the back of his neck and stood closer to Gavin, feeling Gavin's heat as he became cold from being wet. The rain pouring down against the patch of ivy, which grew above a retaining wall between the large support pillars, was so hard it sounded like hail.
Gavin took one step back and bumped into Toby. A large blast of thunder followed a flash of white light. "You got back just in time."
"I'm sorry Trina got the wrong idea, Gavin." Toby stared at Gavin's lips. He wanted to kiss them.
"She did. I feel like I'm in a very bad spot at the moment."
"Why?" Toby felt his body begin to respond to the attraction he was feeling for Gavin. Another clap of thunder shook the foundations.
"You must be getting cold. It's freezing in here now." Gavin connected to Toby's gaze.
"I never kissed her, Gavin. Just on the cheek."
"I know."
Toby thought about it. "How close are you two?"
"Very. We either talk or go out almost every night."
"Then you know I've been a gentleman."
"I do. But she still thinks there's potential."
"I'll set the record straight."
"Good. I mean...I told her I met you and we're neighbors, but that's all." Gavin looked down at Toby's chest. "Aren't you cold?"
"Yes. I am cooling off now."
"Why don't you get out of those wet things?"
Toby smiled at his sexual thoughts. "That sounds like a proposition." He touched Gavin to back him away from the car so he could shut the hood.
"I didn't mean it as one."
"Why not?" Toby looked over his shoulder as it seemed Gavin's attention was drawn there. Another resident was driving under into the parking area, their windshield wipers still on from the torrent.
"Come inside with me." Toby gestured for them to leave the garage. Gavin headed out and Toby closed the garage door behind them, removing his keys from his shirt pouch pocket. "Do you have a minute to come up to my place?"
Gavin opened the lobby door and stepped inside. "Do you really think that's a good idea? Under the circumstances?"
Toby was confused. "What are the circumstances?" They stopped by the elevator door.
"You're dating Trina."
"Dating?" Toby narrowed his eyes at Gavin. "We met for a couple nights to get a drink and once at Greenlake. Gavin, I'm not dating Trina."
"Are you sure she doesn't think that?"
"How am I supposed to control what Trina thinks?" Toby began to turn off. He couldn't understand why two men would worry about what a woman friend thought. "Why don't you just admit you're not interested?"
Gavin rubbed his face as if he were tired or conflicted.
Toby handed him the towel. "Here. Thanks."
"Toby...hang on. You have a habit of storming off before we can finish talking." Gavin took the towel.
"Storming off?" Toby began to get insulted. "Look, I don't need this kind of complication right now. You sound like you have too much stacked against this friendship already." He pushed the elevator call button and looked down at his key ring.
"I want to be friends with you."
"Fine. We're friends." Toby shot him a fake smile. The elevator opened. "Bye friend." He stepped inside and hit number three on the panel.
As the elevator closed Toby met Gavin's eyes. He wanted to put out his arm and stop the doors. He wanted Gavin to do it. To make the doors open, enter the elevator, take him into his arms and kiss him passionately. But it didn't happen.
The elevator took him to the third floor. Toby was upset as he walked down the hall. He opened his door and began stripping off the wet spandex as he walked to the bathroom and a hot shower. He turned on the water, waiting for it to heat up. While it did, he left the bathroom and hunted down his mobile phone. He found a text from Trina asking him if he knew Gavin.
Toby grew angry. He liked Trina but he didn't think he had given her the idea he was interested in her in any other way than platonically. The impulse to say something snide was strong. But he knew it wasn't Trina's fault he didn't like her as something more than a friend.
Toby put the phone on the bathroom vanity and climbed into the shower. As he washed off, he thought about what to say to her to not hurt her feelings, and give him and Gavin a chance to get to know each other...intimately.
He moaned, and it echoed off the wet stall. "Gavin...this is insane. How can you not even give us one date to see if we like each other?"
The problem was, Toby knew he liked Gavin. A lot.

G.A.'s Links:
Face Book
FB Fan Page
My Space
Blog

(Questions courtesy Dawn's Reading Nook)

Blog Blast 2011! Interview With Stormy Glenn

2011-05-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

If you had to write yourself as a villain, what kind of villain would you be? What would you be named?

I would go for simple torture… like, making someone watch reruns of Bonanza for days. Then I'd just play the theme song over and over again for hours until they begged for mercy. As for a name, that I would have to think about… but something un-menacing, like Bob… I don't want them to see me coming.

What is the strangest source of writing inspiration you've ever had?

A cookie sheet. I was making dinner one night when I grabbed a cookie sheet and a sudden thought came to me. I handed the cookie sheet off to one of my kids and told them to finish making dinner. I ran to my computer and worked on "Just A Taste of Me"…

You come back from the dead as a spirit, what message are you trying to get across?

My husband damn well better mourn me for all eternity or I'll haunt his ass!

If you were a world ruler and you were given a choice of 3 laws to enact, what would they be?

"Do unto others…" would become the national credo…giving, sharing, treating others equally, understanding, and tolerance would be taught in schools, made the norm instead of the exception.
Politicians could only be in office for 5 years then new ones are votes in (and by new, I mean someone that has never been in office before. No lifetime politicians).
All old-age homes would be closed down. The elderly should be revered for their life experience and wisdom. They should be treated with respect and live out their days surrounded by family.

If your muse were to talk behind your back, what secrets would he/she tell?

Stormy is way flighty. He mind jumps around like a bunny rabbit. Procrastination is her middle name. And her head is constantly in the clouds. Good luck getting her to make dinner on time. Sooo not going to happen.

If you were a Superheroine/Hero, would you wear tights and a cape?

Um, no…I look ridiculous in tights. But a cape would be interesting…LOL…I could get away with wearing pajamas in public. Course, the fuzzy bunny slippers would show but…

You are told you have to meet one paranormal creature, no safeguards, what do you choose? What do you bring with you?

Definitely a werewolf and I'd bring a steak… raw steak, maybe an entire side of cow just to be safe.

You have to ask a fictional character out on a date. Who would you ask and what would you do together?

WOW, I'd like to ask one of my hot and gorgeous guys I write about but I'm not their type…LOL… other than that, I'd have to go with either Clive Owen or Sean Connery. The accent does it to me every time. I'd just sit and listen to them talk…sigh!

BUY LINK

Genre: M/M, Paranormal, Werewolf, Erotic Romance

Blurb:

Rogan Owens lives a life of secret misery. Three years ago, he lost his mate when he couldn't come out of the closet and acknowledge their bond. He's suffered in silence ever since, taking over as alpha of his mate's clan.

Rogan is overjoyed when he discovers Julian alive. He has so many questions. Where has Julian been? Why hasn't he come home? What are the long scars on his body? But most importantly, why is Julian running away from him?

Stricken with grief, Rogan takes a dangerous path that almost ends his life. Only by Julian's swift intervention is he saved. Rogan finally comes to accept that his mate will never want him only to have Julian decide it's time to come home.

But someone else doesn't want Julian and Rogan reunited and they will use anything to keep the two men apart, even if it means Julian's death for real this time. Between keeping each other safe and trying to solve the mystery of who wants Julian dead, they barely have time to learn to love each other. Will what they feel for each other make

them stronger or be their downfall?

Stormy's Links:

(Questions courtesy Dawn's Reading Nook)

Take Me Away by Tina Donahue

2011-05-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

Title: Take Me Away

Author: Tina Donahue

Author Website

Release Date: May 6, 2011

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave

Buy Link

Genre: Contemporary/Erotic/Romance

Blurb:

Take Me Away

She’s everything he escaped…and all that he desires

Three years ago, Kyle turned his back on a pro-football career and being the target of tabloids or gold-digging groupies. Craving privacy, he gets it at his roadhouse in Northern California until Lexi Sands invades his life. Indulged and surely phony, she’s exactly what Kyle fled.

An actress since childhood, Lexi’s fresh out of an anger management program, court-ordered when she lashed out at a badgering paparazzo. Weary of the press’s harsh scrutiny, she sees Kyle’s secluded cabin as the ideal place to hide out and him as a damn-near perfect alpha male. Deliciously virile. Protective. Principled. She offers him serious cash to let her stay for two weeks, assuring there will be no complications or touching.

Yeah, right. Passion flares, along with tenderness. Kyle recognizes how lonely Lexi really is, while she’s falling hard. Through intimate days and impassioned nights, they explore their most shameless needs, until a cruel betrayal exposes their growing love, forcing a choice neither anticipated.

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, Tina. I’m so pleased you could join me today. What is your Sizzling Release?

Hi, Rie – thanks for having me! My Sizzling Release is Take Me Away, my latest erotic contemporary romance released today – May 6.

What is Take Me Away all about?

The price of fame and that it’s not always what it turns out to be, not when you have paparazzi and crazed groupies running after you…and very often judging you. It’s about Kyle, an ex pro-football player, who got out of the madness. And Lexi, an actress, who’s been in since she was a kid. Their worlds are so different, and yet so much the same. It’s a moving love story – and a very HOT tale of a man and a woman who want to find a little sanity in this world…who want someone they can rely upon.

That sounds wonderful. How did you come up with the idea?

I was watching the news one night and a piece about Lindsay Lohan came on. She’d just been sentenced to rehab. I found myself feeling bad for her. She’d been in the biz since she was a child with her parents and hangers-on wanting everything they could get from her without considering her needs. I started thinking of what it must be like to live in a world like that – where you couldn’t trust anyone. A world where paparazzi are always catching you at your worst moments and plastering those pictures all over the tabloids.

As a multi-published author, what advice do you have for those just beginning their writing career?

Keep at it no matter how many rejections you have. You will sell eventually if you learn your craft. Don’t try to write in the most currently popular genre (eg: paranormal, erotic, whatever). Write what you like to read.

Tell the readers about your backlist.

It’s growing! J I have 19 titles out now. From most recent to those in the past, they are:

Unending Desire (erotic paranormal coming in October)

Take Me Away (released today!)

The Yearning (Bestselling paranormal – my first in that genre!)

Sensual Stranger (Book of the Year 2010 – erotic category)

In His Arms (SIX 5 Star Reviews – 4 Stars Romantic Times)

Lush Velvet Nights (Golden Nib Award – 2011 EPIC Finalist)

Deep, Dark Delicious (2011 EPIC FINALIST – 4 Stars Romantic Times)

Adored (RWA award-winning – 4 Stars Romantic Times – 2011 EPIC FINALIST)

Bad Boys with Red Roses (anthology)

Close to Perfect (single title)

Take My Breath Away (single title)

Wicked Women on Top (anthology)

Irish Eyes (anthology)

O’Toole’s Promise (historical)

Just One Kiss (historical)

Force of Nature (romantic comedy)

My Man (romantic comedy)

Once in a Blue Moon (romantic comedy)

Take A Chance (romantic comedy)

Lady Love (romantic comedy)

Wow! What a list you have. What are you working on now?

My third erotic paranormal. This one is REALLY hot. J

Do you have an evil day job, and if you do, how do you find time to write?

Oh yes I do have an EDJ. I write early in the morning before I have to go to work. I write at night when I’m through with work. And I write on the weekends.

Is there something in particular that sparks you to write something new?

Something I’ve seen on the news or when I read something in a new genre (to me), I often think I’d like to try my hand at it.

What does your family and friends think about you being a published author?

They take it in their stride.

It’s May-do you celebrate Cinco De Mayo?

Absolutely. Living in California, it’s more or less required.

Dos Equis or Corona?

Dos Equis

Speaking of Cinco De Mayo, have you ever been to Mexico?

I’ve been to Mexico many, many times. Love to shop there and love the good eats.

Thank you so much for being here. Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know?

I’m hoping to have another contemporary erotic romance out later this year.

And before we go, can we get a juicy excerpt from Take Me Away?

Sure – be happy to!

Excerpt:

Kyle stared at her naked thigh. Her skirt was so short the damn thing practically exposed her ass. From his vantage point, he could see she wasn’t wearing regular panties. Whether she had on a thong was debatable.

His mouth went dry. He pulled in a deep breath, which rewarded him with her alluring rose scent.

I won’t be in your way at all, she’d said. I’ll amuse myself outside.

With those words, he’d pictured the creek behind his cabin. Lexi shedding her clothes and boots on the bank. Sunlight caressing her nudity. The water swirling around her sleek thighs, dampening her bush, licking her cunt. Beads of moisture clinging to the soft swells of her breasts, dripping off the tips of her nipples.

A groan of pleasure and frustration bubbled up. Kyle fought it, remaining silent, not daring to ask what in the fuck she was doing. Adjusting her sock? Removing a rock that had somehow gotten into her boot and was hurting her foot?

His guesses weren’t close to correct.

She pulled out a wad of hundred dollar bills. The kind Kyle used to carry around during his pro football days. Paying in cash left no identifying receipts that paparazzi or the tabloids would later use to concoct an outrageous story about him.

Like the one in which they speculated on how large his cock was. The article began with a photo of his credit card receipt from a local drugstore, showing his purchase of Trojan Magnums, condoms for well-endowed guys. Just in case anyone failed to catch the Magnum name or his, the tabloid had circled both in red. They’d also interviewed several of his ex-girlfriends who gushed about his size then went on to complain that he wasn’t all that satisfying in bed.

To this day, Kyle still winced whenever he thought about it.

Lexi peeled thirty bills from her stash, then put the remainder back inside her boot. Lowering her foot, she offered him the cash.

The muscles in his arms tensed. He ordered himself to tell her no. He didn’t need the complication of a woman living at his place, even if it was only for a week or two. He definitely didn’t want a reminder of the kind of life he’d used to lead. The photos of him in the hall were bad enough, put there by Pete who was prouder of those days than Kyle had ever been.

Pete had wanted those pictures to grace the bar area. Repeatedly, Kyle told him to forget about it. Kickoff’s would make it on its own, not on his previous celebrity.

Lexi’s hand remained outstretched. In an even voice, she asked, “Have you changed your mind? Do you want five thousand now?”

Gaze jumping to hers, Kyle saw the vulnerability in her eyes that she couldn’t quite mask. He heard the caution behind her words. No different from his when he hadn’t been certain if a stranger really liked the way he played or was flattering him because there was an ulterior motive.

He cleared his throat and used his gentlest tone. “There are lots of places around here where you could rent a room for a few weeks.”

Obsessed by Lisa Sanchez

2011-05-04T00:37:00.000-07:00

Title: Obsessed

Author: Lisa Sanchez

Author Website

Release Date: March 29, 2011

Publisher: Loose Id

Buy Link

Genre: Erotic/Suspense/Romance

Blurb:

The victim of both a brutal attempted rape and now a serial stalking, Halley Davis is broken, and desperate to glue the shattered pieces of her life back together. Tormented by a psychopath and battling a heavy dose of anxiety, sex and dating are the last things on Halley’s anxiety-ridden mind. That is, until she meets the man who rescued her from the hands of a would-be rapist. With a body made for sin, a wicked, sexy tattoo and an aura that screams “badass,” her rescuer not only calms the storm of terror raging inside her mind, he ignites a passion within her she’s never known before.

Tired of using meaningless sex to drown out the horrors of his past, Nick Ackart has sworn off women. In fact, if women were classified as meat, his ass is Vegan. Despite his determination to remain unattached, Nick is unable to stay away from the emerald-eyed beauty he rescued from a sadistic pervert. Immersed in a tangled web of sexual desire and deep emotion he was certain was long dead, he vows to protect Halley from the monster hounding her, even though he stands to lose his heart in the process.

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, Lisa. I’m so pleased you could join me today. What is your Sizzling Release?

Thank you so much for having me! My newest release is an erotic suspense titled Obsessed.

What is Obsessed all about?

I’m a romance junkie to the core, so Obsessed is a love story at its heart. Nick and Halley’s story deals with heavy issues such as obsession, stalking, addiction and the type of healing only love can bring about.

That sounds intriguing. How did you come up with the idea?

I tend to draw inspiration from the people around me, things I see or hear. I remember driving my daughters to cheer practice one day and hearing Mariah Carey’s Obsessed for the first time. I was instantly drawn into the song and my muse took over at that point. It was like a dam had burst, the ideas came so quickly.

As a multi-published author, what advice do you have for those just beginning their writing career?

The best advice I can give anyone is to persevere. If you love to write, if you love to tell stories, then keep at it. Rejections are all part of the process. It’s those passionate individuals who are stubborn and press forward after someone tells them no, that eventually reach their goals.

Tell the readers about your backlist.

I write paranormal romance as well as erotic suspense. The first two books in my Hanaford Park series, Eve Of Samhain and Pleasures Untold, are available for purchase at Omnific Publishing, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and All Romance Ebooks.

What are you working on now?

I’ve just finished the first draft of book three in my paranormal series. It’s with my critique partners and beta readers right now. Once I finish polishing and send it to my agent, I plan on starting something new. I’ve got some ideas for another erotic suspense as well as a YA paranormal. I like to mix things up.

Do you have an evil day job, and if you do, how do you find time to write?

My evil day job consists of playing taxi driver to my three girls. I’m a stay at home mom and wear many hats. Let me just say, school is a very good thing. I wouldn’t get any writing done if they were home during the day!

Is there something in particular that sparks you to write something new?

There isn’t any one thing that sparks my muse. I draw from situations that happen in my life and the people around me.

What does your family and friends think about you being a published author?

They’re all very proud and have lovingly dubbed me “Smut Queen.” I wear my title with pride.

It’s May - do you celebrate Cinco De Mayo?

With my last name being Sanchez, you’d think I would. Alas, no, this is one of the few holidays we don’t normally celebrate. I do have to say, it’s for no particular reason. My family’s pretty busy, so most holidays fly right past us.

Dos Equis or Corona?

Neither! I’m going to quote Buffy the Vampire Slayer here and say “Beer Bad!” I prefer wine or a martini. I’ve even been known to suck down a rum and coke when the mood strikes. But beer? Nope, not my favorite, though, I do enjoy the smell.

Speaking of Cinco De Mayo, have you ever been to Mexico?

Yes! I traveled to Mexico with my church youth group the summer before my senior year. It was a great experience, and something that will stay with me forever.

Thank you so much for being here. Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know?

Thank you for having me! I’d really like to give a huge shout of thanks to anyone who has read my work. It’s because of the readers that I’m able to do what I’m passionate about. I’ve got nothing but mad love for my readers!

And before we go, can we get a juicy excerpt from Obsessed?

You bet!

After having read this excerpt, I feel it is my duty as the blog mistress to warn all of you. Before reading, douse yourself in cold water and make sure you have fresh batteries....you're gonna need both!

EXCERPT:

The tribal markings covering his right arm traveled up over his shoulder and down the entire right side of his torso, and—holy Lord—his nipples were pierced.

Her skin blazed, and she reached forward with a shaky hand, certain the only way to gain relief from the erotic pull he had on her was to give in to the call of his body to hers. The sense of safety and comfort she felt whenever she was around him roared right along with her desire for him, and she knew somehow, deep in her gut, this man was essential for her survival.

A shudder ran through Nick the moment her flesh met his. She ghosted her fingertips down his collarbone, over the arcs and swirls of black ink. Her thumb grazed his nipple, gently tugging on the small silver ring, resulting in a loud hiss from Nick.

She pulled her hand back. “I’m sorry.” She dropped her chin to her chest. “I...”

“Don’t be, Princess.” He placed a finger under her chin, lifting her face to meet his gaze, and a shockwave of delicious tingles traveled up and down her spine. He stared down at her with heavy-lidded eyes and groaned. “It felt good.”

“Oh...” All the air in the room disappeared again, and her pulse jumped from zero to sixty in nothing flat. “I thought I hurt you.”

With a raised brow, his vibrant blue eyes searched hers, asking silent permission to move closer. Once granted, a pair of strong hands gripped her waist, and he closed the small gap between them. His enormous and very hard arousal pressed against her stomach as he crushed her against the edge of the counter. Oh my God.

He leaned forward, his nose trailing up the column of her neck. “No, Princess, you didn’t hurt me. Although I wouldn’t mind if you did. Some pain is very good.”

White heat burst from beneath Halley’s skin, engulfing her entire body. Shmexy boy was too damn much.

His warm breath tickled her ear, riddling her skin with goose bumps.

Overwhelmed by his nearness, Halley closed her eyes and gave herself over to the sensation of his heated skin against her palms, running them across the ridges of his rock-hard abs.

“Did the tattoo hurt?” She was barely able to think, let alone form a coherent sentence.

He peppered her jawline with feather-soft kisses. “Yes,” he said as his lips found the sweet spot behind her ear, making her knees buckle.

“And these?” She sucked in a rapid breath as her palms grazed over the tips of his pierced nipples. “Did these hurt?”

A deep groan rumbled through his chest. “Fuck me, Princess.” His voice was raw, breathy. “Yes.” He pulled his head back while his large hands latched harder onto her waist, and lifted her onto the countertop. And God, it was all she could do to keep from whimpering when he ground his bulging erection against the sensitive flesh of her core. They hadn’t even kissed yet, and she was ready to explode.

God, yes. This was what she needed, what she craved: to feel something other than fear. She wanted to lose herself in Nick’s warm embrace, drown herself in his masculine scent, and never come up for air.

Every inch of her skin was ablaze, burning for him to touch her, put his mouth on her. She’d never been this hot for a guy. Ever. There was something about Nick that drove her wild, made her forget herself. All masculine and sexy, rough around the edges, but oh-so-beautiful, he was her secret fantasy come to life. And holy hell, it looked like her fantasy man was about to act out her deepest desires with her right in her kitchen.

“And...” Halley’s breaths came in shallow pants, she was so worked up. She ran her thumbs over each of his nipples before gently tugging on the rings. “Did you like it?”

She watched any control he had over himself fly out the window as he whispered a low “fuck me,” and came at her hard, claiming her mouth with his. His hands... They were everywhere, kneading, pulling, pushing, running over every inch of her, driving her wild.

Halley ran her hands up the bare expanse of his chest, up the thick column of his neck, and cradled his face in her palms.

His soft, warm tongue darted across her bottom lip, tasting, teasing, looking for a way in, and she gave it to him. Her hands moved to the back of his neck, pulling him closer as she opened her mouth, granting him access to deepen the kiss.

Closer, she had to be closer. His scent was intoxicating. A heady mix of spice and fresh, clean soap sent her already raging libido into overdrive. She wanted to lick every inch of his skin, starting with his ink.

Bio: Lisa's lifelong love of writing, coupled with her ability to weave together and intricate and compelling story has led to the release of her first published novel, Eve Of Samhain. In her role as a busy stay-at-home and self proclaimed "cheer mom," on any given day Lisa wears a number of different hats. From taxi driver to chef,nurse to seamstress, laundry woman to enforcer, and, of course, writer, Lisa manages to keep everything together while caring for her husband and three children. The few spare moments left in her day are usually spent reading or writing, and if she's really lucky, possibly even catching up on some much needed sleep. Lisa and her family currently reside in Tracy, California.

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Rocking the Boat by Christopher Koehler

2011-04-22T01:33:00.000-07:00

Title: Rocking the Boat

Author: Christopher Koehler

Author Website

Release Date: 02/28/11

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Buy Link

Genre: M/M, Contemporary/Romance/Erotic

Blurb: Nick Bedford, closeted coach of California Pacific College’s men’s rowing team, is struggling with professional ethics. He denies his attraction to Morgan Estrada, a rower on the crew, though the heated glances between them drive Nick wild. Then Morgan makes a move... and though Nick panics, Morgan gets what he wants: Nick.

Safely assured that he’s not preying on a younger man, Nick gives in to his feelings for Morgan. They take pleasure in sharing their daily routine, and the sex sets the sheets afire. Everything seems perfect until an anonymous complaint is filed against Nick right before the biggest race of the year. It’s exactly what Nick has feared most—and it may be enough to capsize the fledgling relationship.

Welcome to Sizzling Releases, Christopher. I’m so pleased you could join me today. What is your Sizzling Release?

Rocking the Boat

What is Rocking the Boat all about?

Rocking the Boat tells the story of Nick and Morgan, coach and athlete, from both men’s point of view, particularly Nick’s struggles with the ethics of his attraction for one of his rowers and Morgan’s uncertainty why an older, more sophisticated man would be interested in him.

That sounds intriguing. How did you come up with the idea?

I’ve rowed competitively myself for over a decade on the masters level (ignoring a short, inglorious collegiate rowing career) and even coached, and my club’s boathouse is next that of a collegiate crew.

Several years ago, one of the college men contacted me as he was coming to terms with his own orientation. I’ll state right here that while I’m a happily married and very much monogamous gay man, this strapping fellow gave me all kinds of ideas about what I’d like to do to him had I been single, emphasis very much on the subjuctive mood.

So there’s the relationship between coach and athlete. But this fellow was struggling, and even if I’d been single, it would’ve been immoral to take advantage of that. But that’s where the similarity ends, and from there, I let the characters tell me their stories.

I know this is book number one in the series The “Row”-mances of the CalPac Crew. Did you begin writing with a series in mind, or did your muse take over?

A bit of both. Publishing definitely favors writers who produce worlds people want to read, and the more you produce in a given world, the easier it is, I think. There’s a built-in fan base, if you will, a ready-made market.

That said, while I first set out to tell a single story, that of the Nick and Morgan, it became clear to me that there were more stories to tell.

This is your first published work, which must be very exciting for you. What was it like for you to write your first book and get published?

I’ve published a number of non-fiction articles, mostly in the history of science and medicine that were of little interest and no consequence. I’ve dreamed of writing books since I was a child, so the publication of Rocking the Boat was both the culmination of a dream and the start of what I hope proves to be a successful career as a novelist.

Congratulations on fulfilling that dream. What are you working on now?

I’m working on Tipping the Balance, the follow-up to Rocking the Boat. I suspect readers of Rocking the Boat will figure out whose story is told in Tipping the Balance. I wasn’t particularly subtle about the interest shown between two supporting characters. But if anyone’s unsure, they are more than welcome to email through the contact link on my webpage.

Do you have an evil day job? How do you find time to write?

I suppose it depends on how you define ‘evil’ and ‘job.’ I’m an at-home dad to an highly demanding ADHD-addled little boy, and that consumes the bulk of my time and attention. I also do some freelance proofreading and editing on the side.

Wow, that's a full time job all by itself, and a labor of love, I'm sure. Now I'm going to ask a question I hate answering when I do interviews! lol What is your creative process?

I try to have several projects in various stages at any given time. So for a while I was editing Rocking the Boat, writing Tipping the Balance, and doing a bit of pre-writing for Settling the Score, the third and final CalPac Row-mance.

In terms of the pre-writing, I create fairly detailed sketches of the main characters, anything from physical appearance to mannerisms to profession. I also just jot notes about plot and dialogue without too much concern for order, although if a sequence makes itself known to me, I don’t look away.

I follow a fairly formal plot structure, so a lot of my brainstorming at this point contributes to the highs and lows and the actiona and emotional arcs. Once I’ve got those nailed down, I’ll fill in with scenes that advance from point to point along the plot structure.

You are highly organized, and I am so, well, not! I admire people who are able to sit down and really plot out their stories. What does your family and friends think about you being a published author?

My friends are thrilled, although I have to wonder if some of my straight rowing teammates know how…uh ‘realistic’ the sex is. My husband is likewise overjoyed for me, and our son is happy for me, although he has only a vague idea of what I write. It’ll stay that way until he’s older, too.

This means, among other things, being careful with the recycled paper for the printer, because some of it contains very details accounts of just what Morgan and Nick get up to behind closed doors. There are things I’d rather not explain to a seven-year-old just yet.

Understandable. I have 12 children, all grown now, but I remember some touchy moments when they walked in the bedroom when they should've been sleeping! Now, it’s April and spring is here. What is your favorite season?

My favorite season is in fact fall. Where I live in northern California, although the leaves take forever to turn color (sometimes it’s close to Christmas before some of them do), the light in autumn takes on a soft, golden tone and the stifling heat of summer is only a memory.

I am from northern CA myself, Humboldt County and the mountains are covered with evergreens, so I know what you mean. Besides being springtime, April also means Easter. How do you celebrate?

By hiding eggs over and over again for our son. I’m no longer observant and my husband is wearingly vocal about his atheism, so Easter’s pretty much just cultural at this point.

Chocolate bunnies or Cadbury Eggs?

Cadbury Mini-Eggs are the vile and empty work of the devil, and I try to save civilization by devouring as many of them as possible to save the lot of you.

LOL You are to be commended for making that sacrifice for the sake of humanity! Thank you so much for being here. Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know?

Just that I’m humbled and grateful that people like my story, and I welcome their comments. So far, even the people with critiques have been quite polite about it, and I appreciate that. My response to rudeness and a lack of civility is simply not to engage, frankly. But then, the atmosphere in my house can be almost comical in terms of civility and deportment.

And before we go, can we get a juicy excerpt from Rocking the Boat?

Sure! I’ve edited it slightly for clarity.

EXCERPT:

NICK was at home, where he often spent his Saturday nights. Usually, he studied and read. But that night, he knew what was going on across town. He hadn’t even asked Drew where they were going. He didn’t want to know. He didn’t want to be tempted to interrupt. To fall to his knees at Morgan’s feet to confess his lie and beg for a chance.

But he knew that somewhere, the man he wanted to call his own was being wined and dined, and not by him, and he hated it. He’d never been so uncomfortable in his own skin. He felt twitchy and irritable, like he had an itch that couldn’t be scratched. He didn’t know what he feared more, that Drew and Morgan wouldn’t hit it off... or that they would. Whatever happened, Nick just knew it couldn’t end well, at least not for him. No, he thought, getting up from his desk to pace around his apartment again, this evening had regret written all over it.

Nick looked at the clock on the microwave in his kitchen. Nine p.m. “Damnation,” he said, knowing full well what he was about to do.

He stomped off to his bedroom, shedding his sweats as he went. Aspects was just getting going, and the best way to get over someone was to get under someone else. He kept telling himself that as he put on a shirt so tight it looked like he’d sprayed it on. That and jeans so low his pubic hair would’ve peeked over the top if he hadn’t trimmed it made it clear he had an eight-pack, that he’d earned his muscles through sport and fitness, not by haunting a gym. They also made it clear what he was looking for.

He sprang for a cab. He didn’t intend to be in fit state to drive home. Fifteen minutes later, he was at the bar, surveying the room through his first shot of tequila, the first of many.

“You drink like a man who’s serious about it,” a voice rumbled in his ear.

Nick glanced over, and next to him was a man he hadn’t noticed before, about his height, with close-cropped blond hair and ice-blue eyes.

“It passes the time,” Nick said.

“Maybe I can help you pass it better.”

Nick raked the man with his eyes and liked what he saw. He had the tightly leashed look of power Nick associated with military men, a man with a body to match his own and, with any luck, the will to use it and him. Oblivion was oblivion, wherever it came from.

Nick passed the bartender money to cover his liquid dinner and then some. Then he stood up and smiled. “Lead on.”

Nick’s quarry stood and smiled like a predator, and Nick smiled right back, already buzzing like a hornet’s nest. The man matched him inch for inch, muscle for muscle, and, Nick discovered on the dance floor, move for move.

They settled into the beat like they were made for it. Nick didn’t waste any time. When the man looked at him with ravenous eyes, Nick grinned right back and moved in closer.

When the man moved to unbutton his shirt, Nick let him. When the man ran his hands over his chest, Nick raised his arms overhead to give the man room to play. He closed his eyes and tried to lose himself.

People stared, but Nick didn’t care. Let them stare. He was nothing. His best friend was out there somewhere, romancing the man he wished was touching him, and nothing else mattered. When the beat changed and the muscular blond man turned him around to dance front to back, Nick wasted no time in making his wishes known. He ground his ass against the man’s crotch and felt the answering hardness press back.

This was what he wanted, Nick told himself. What he needed. So when the man’s hands found their way to the button fly of his jeans, he gyrated harder and let him pop the first few buttons.

Nick closed his eyes again, allowing himself to think that it was Morgan’s hands on him, that it was Morgan who reached around to take him in hand. Strong fingers wriggled their way to his cock, smooth palms sliding over taut flesh.

Nick’s eyes jerked open. Smooth palms. There were no calluses, no rough spots created by the friction of the oar handles. He was suddenly as cold and sober as if he’d taken a bucket of water to the face.

He pulled away and turned to face the man, frantically buttoning up. “I’m sorry. It’s just... you’re not him.”

Champagne Books Awards - And The Winners Are.....

2011-04-20T01:27:00.000-07:00

Author of the Year (Carnal Passions) Lori Witt - Author Site

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Author of the Year (Champagne Books) Linda Rettstatt - Author Site

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Best Selling Novel of the Year -- Pesto Packing Mama by Nan D. Arnold - Author Site

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Novel of the Year -- Shadow Fox by Ashley J. Barnard - Author Site

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Publisher's Award of Excellence -- Kaylin McFarren - Author Site

Congratulations to each of these Champagne Books/Carnal Passions authors!