Mari Carr's Blog, page 42

Let’s go to Eden

Yesterday, I promised to talk to you a bit more about Jett’s story in my Big Easy series. To recap quickly, Blank Canvas and Crash Point are already available–so I hope you’ll check out Caliph and Chloe’s stories. Justin’s book, Full Position will hit the virtual shelves on May 23.

And…Jett’s book, Rough Draft, will arrive on August 12th and it will be part of the Invitation to Eden series. This is a very exciting project I’m taking part in with 26 other incredible authors. Our mission is simple. Each of us will bring our characters to the romantic island paradise of Eden, where nothing is as it seems. There is a very mysterious Master of the Island who ensures that each of our couples will see their fantasies come true (even fantasies they didn’t know they had!).

The series will kick-off at the end of this month with a prequel and then…three more stories will release every month from April until December. Now…the stories are only connected by setting and the occasional cameo from characters from other books, so it’s not necessary to read them all or in order (though I certainly hope you’ll check them all out!). The line-up of authors is unbelievable. I mean I’m seriously starstruck and over-the-moon to be included with such talented story-tellers.

Did you know I have a whole page on this website devoted to the Invitation to Eden stories? Click here to see the writers involved, sneak a peek at the gorgeous covers and read the blurbs about their books. And…if you’d like to interact with the authors, please considering becoming a fan of our Invitation to Eden Facebook page.

Now…how about a look at Rough Draft?

Capture, bondage and fantasies fulfilled. It’s all fun and games until someone gets killed.

Bestselling crime novelist Jett Lewis is stumbling over a wicked case of writer’s block, his fast-flowing words having run dry. His publisher’s screaming “deadline”, the fans are ready to riot, and Jett just wants to disappear. His friend Carissa suggests he get away, clear his head…get laid. And she has just the ticket. Literally. Two passes to Eden, an exclusive island paradise.

Recently sans girlfriend, Jett convinces Carissa to go with him, and the resort is more than either of them bargained for—especially when the simple beach trip turns to murder. Thrust into a plot sinister enough to rival Jett’s books, the couple embarks on a search for the killer. The most shocking revelation of all might be their mutual attraction…and how much Jett and Carissa love working undercover.

For today’s contest question, simply describe your idea of paradise in the comment section for a chance to win a $25 gift card to Amazon and an ARC of The Back-Up Plan.

Big Easy

This past fall I was approached by Eden Bradley and RG Alexander to participate in an anthology they were putting together called Midnight Ink. The timing of their invitation could NOT have been more perfect because I’d been plotting a new series. When they told me Midnight Ink would take place in New Orleans, I knew my Lewis family suddenly had a home (and boy do they fit right in there!). From that point, the Big Easy stories were born! They revolve around the Lewis clan. Mama Lewis rules the roost with a firm, but loving hand. She also believes there’s always room for one more at the table. As a result, she opens her family’s home to many foster children as well.

As for the family tree, I thought I’d give you a little background. Mama Lewis got pregnant in college with Justin. Justin’s dad didn’t stick around, so she was a single mother for a little while. BUT…that turned out okay because she fell in love with a former boxer, Papa Lewis, who took Justin in as his own. Mama and Papa (who passes away several years before the series opens from a heart attack) had three children, Caliph, Chloe and Jett. They’ve also taken in several foster children. Readers have been introduced to two of them already–Zac and Noah–but there are others who have drifted in and out of the Lewis household over the years and you’ll meet them too!

Because this series is completely self-published, I’ve had the opportunity to include the stories in some very exciting projects. As I said before, the Big Easy stories started with Blank Canvas, which was/is part of the Midnight Ink series. You can buy it either as part of the Midnight Ink box set or on its own. In Blank Canvas, Caliph finds true love in the tattoo parlor.

Blank Canvas

Disillusioned by divorce, Jennifer’s about to discover her wild side, starting with a tattoo from Caliph. And continuing with submission, spankings, wax play…all under the skilled hands of her wickedly sexy tattoo master.

Blank Canvas can be purchased at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and ARe or as part of the Midnight Ink anthology at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and ARe.

The second book in the series, Crash Point, is currently only available as part of the Riding Desire box set. You can purchase it now at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and ARe. OR…it will release individually on May 23.

Chance has brought Blake Mills back into her life. The textbook bad boy Chloe gave her young body and tender love to ten long years ago. He betrayed her trust, broke her heart, stole from her family…proved just how bad he truly was. Her fury still rages a decade later–so why does she want him more than ever?

Blake never stopped wanting Chloe Lewis. Through years of bad choices, Chloe was his guiding light, leading him away from a life of crime to turn him into the man he’s become, a respectable, decorated member of the NOPD. Now, seeing her again, Blake understands the mere memory of their love, their combustible lust, will never be enough.

When they reach the crash point, will love be enough to save them?

When it releases on its own in May, it will look like this. Isn’t that a great cover?

Now…this is what I have planned for the next two books. The third story, Full Position, will be Justin’s story. It will release on May 23 as well! Here’s a brief synopsis for the story.

Bella Carper has entertained some very racy fantasies about her bosses, Justin and Ned, ever since she started working at their marketing firm. When Justin and Ned spy a way to take their own plans for Bella and make them a reality, they don’t hold back. The three travel to Extreme Connections, a sex club, for a single night of no-holds-barred sexual adventures. While Bella expects the affair to end come morning, Justin and Ned have other intentions. Because their Big Easy fantasy isn’t a one-night stand. It’s forever.

And then…August 12 will bring the release of Rough Draft, Jett’s story. Rough Draft will be the only story (so far) to take place primarily out of New Orleans. I was invited to submit the story to be a part of the Invitation to Eden series…which…I’m going to tell you about tomorrow! lol

SO…how about the contest question? The Big Easy stories take place in New Orleans. What city would you like to see used as the setting for a book and why? Don’t forget to comment here for a chance to win a $25 gift card to Amazon and an ARC of The Back-Up Plan. Winner will be selected March 15.

Harry’s Sacrifice

I’m taking a short break from the contest today because I want to celebrate this release!

Finally! The book we’ve ALL been waiting for. Bianca D’Arc’s Harry’s Sacrifice is out!

Embracing the unexpected can lead to all sorts of adventures.

Resonance Mates, Book 5



The prophesied time has arrived and Harry—born of an alien mother and a human father—must journey to the top of the world to unlock a mysterious ship found trapped in an icy crevasse. A ship only someone of Harry’s bloodline can open.

Roshin, a young Alvian scribe, is sent to record events as they unfold. Beneath her remote, icy beauty, Harry feels an unwanted hum of attraction. He has always dreamed of a warm, giving relationship with a human. Not a cold, emotionless Alvian.

Then there’s Cormac, an Alvian officer sent to head the expedition. When all three are trapped inside the vessel, Harry is confronted with an unexpected dilemma—cling to his dream of a human bond, or answer the call of fate and form a lifelong alliance with not just one, but two aliens.

Product Warnings

Harry’s all grown up and ready for action—with not one but two Alvians. Theirs could be a permanent ménage relationship that will resonate in your heart long after the last page is turned.

Excerpt:

“There is something here.” Cormac 7 pointed to a sector on the crude two-dimensional map they were using in lieu of the holographic display.

For some reason, a lot of their instruments were not working. There was some kind of electromagnetic interference that was sending even crude human compasses spinning. Alvian, crystal-based technology was sturdier, but even that was not working this far north. As they climbed higher in latitude, their instruments ceased to function one by one. The phenomenon was worst in the area he was pointing to on the map.

“We need to get inside the crevasse here…” he moved his finger to indicate another location, just west of the trouble spot, “…and see if we can approach from this direction. Whatever is down there, it will not give up its secret easily. Nevertheless, we must endure. I believe the secret to the electromagnetic anomalies in this area originate at that point. It is our mission to discover what it is and how it works. Such technology—or, more unlikely, natural phenomenon—is a tactical liability.”

“Agreed,” said his second in command, Liam 24. “I will have the climb team prepare a route down the crevasse.”

“Unnecessary. I plan to go with them.”

“Are you certain of the wisdom in that decision, sir? Climbing down the crevasse is a dangerous mission. It would be better if they prepared a path for you first.”

“Understood, Liam 24. However, I do not wish to drag this mission out any longer. As soon as I am down to an acceptable depth, I can make a determination as to whether this course will yield results. I need to be on scene to make that decision. With our unreliable instrument readings, I must take measurements using old mechanical methods and make decisions based on first-hand observations. None of the climb-team members are qualified to do that, so I must go myself.”

“Yes, the climbers are rather young and inexperienced. Shall I go with you?”

“No. You will be in command up top while I am in the crevasse.”

It didn’t take long to mount the operation. The climb team had all been chosen for their skill and stamina. The young Alvian team was ready at all times should their leaders want them to risk their lives in the pursuit of their task.

Cormac 7 had been designated the leader of this mission not only because of his seniority, but also due to his specialization in archaeology and geophysics. His genetic line was often found on the scientific side of warfare. Warriors through and through, Cormacs were known for their intellect and engineering expertise. Many specialized in battle technology despite being bred of supposedly inferior warrior stock.

Grateful to stretch his muscles, even in the extreme cold near the top of the world, Cormac 7 quickly suited up for the dangerous descent. He hadn’t done much climbing in recent months but knew how to work the gear to get to the level he needed to go within the crevasse.

Flying blind without their instrumentation, he had no idea what he’d find down there. It was somewhat…stimulating…if that was the right word, to feel his heart rate climb as his muscles did the work of lowering him into the deadly rift. His breath misted heavily in front of his face as he descended with one of the more expert and younger climbers, Fergal 51.

To say Cormac 7 was annoyed that none of their scanners were working would be going too far. Much too far. Cormac 7, like most Alvians, had little fluctuation in his normally placid emotional state. Warriors were a little more…emotional than other Alvians. That wasn’t quite the right word, but Cormac 7 had no real basis of understanding the small echoes he thought he felt every once in a while.

Like now, as he descended into the unknown. His heart rate was elevated with the physical exertion, but there was some additional spark driving him forward as well. Some faint spirit of adventure that appealed to him on a basic level he barely understood. He’d experienced similar situations during battle and in its aftermath too. At such times, he wondered what the humans he’d observed felt.

True feeling was beyond him, of course, but his observations of human prisoners over the years had made him wonder. Cormac 7 pushed such thoughts aside as the end of his journey downward came into view. There was a floor of sorts at the bottom of the crevasse—at almost the exact depth he required.

Fergal 51 went first, keeping safety lines firmly secured. He tested the area before signaling for Cormac 7 to continue his descent the last few feet.

“Stay tied to the line, sir, and watch where you step. My instruments cannot get a clear reading on the depth of this ice. It could be a false bottom, so be prepared should you step on a weak spot.”

“Thank you, Fergal 51. I will be cautious.”

After a quick glance at his instruments, Cormac 7 stowed them. They were useless with all the interference. As he’d thought, the electromagnetic source was somewhere down here. Very close now. The complete uselessness of his instruments was a strong indication they were in the right spot.

“In your opinion, is it safe enough to bring a few others down?” Cormac 7 asked the more experienced climber. “We may need to clear a path to get to the epicenter of the disturbance.”

“Yes, sir. I believe it should be all right, provided everyone keeps to the safety lines and some of my team stays above to ensure we can be hoisted out should it become necessary.”

“Make it happen, Fergal 51. While you oversee that, I’ll be scouting ahead.”

Cormac 7 dismissed the noise of Fergal 51’s shouts to the team at the top while he used every sense and a few old-fashioned tools, including a small pickaxe and shovel, to find what might be causing the problem. He knew the direction to move, but the way was blocked by snow and ice. They’d have to dig their way through.

“Sir.” Fergal 51 interrupted Cormac 7’s thoughts as he studied the path he planned to take through the ice. Cormac 7 turned to face the younger soldier, his expression giving the subordinate leave to continue. “I believe we have as many men down here as is safe. They are ready to proceed at your command.”

“Very well.” Cormac 7 turned back to his perusal of the snow and ice. “Two teams,” he ordered and was unsurprised to hear the men snap to behind him. “Clear a path in this direction. I will guide you as you go.”

Cormac 7 stood back as the men began to clear the way. The work went fast because it turned out to be mostly loose snow with only a little harder packed material and ice.

They’d been digging just under an hour when Cormac 7 thought he began to discern a pattern beneath the ice facing them. They’d dug several yards into the wall of snow when a soft glow ahead caught his attention. He called a halt to the digging and went into the small tunnel with Fergal 51 at his side.

Cormac 7 used his own hand tools to dig gently toward the glow he could just see faintly under the white surface of the ice. He stopped abruptly when his small pickaxe struck something that made it clang and vibrate.

Metal of some kind.

He turned to face Fergal 51, and without needing instruction, the other man began helping clear away the remainder of the ice and snow with gentle motions. There was something back there behind the wall of grey and white.

Little by little, it came clear. With a light brush of his gloved hand, Cormac 7 uncovered a smooth grey surface. Metal. Not only metal, but sheet metal that had been worked by someone to a finish unlike any found in nature. The surface had been manufactured.

“We need more light at the face,” Cormac 7 called back to the men who scrambled to comply as he and Fergal 51 continued to clear the snow away at a much faster pace.

In minutes, they had uncovered the outlines of a portal. Some small echo of excitement made Cormac 7’s hands almost tremble as he moved faster in his quest of discovery. The men set up additional light that allowed him to see there was writing on the surface of the portal. Very old writing.

“What is it?” Fergal 51 asked in a hushed voice.

All activity had come to a screeching halt the moment the writing had shown through the fine layer of snow. Everyone seemed to understand the gravity of this moment.

“It is an inscription in an ancient Alvian dialect,” he answered absently, even as he began reading the familiar figures. “Here rests Hara, son of Haroan and Nera.” He traced over the first line with his finger as he spoke the words.

“Hara?” the youngster spoke again. “This is the tomb of Hara?”

“It seems so, though the wording is non-standard. It doesn’t say here lies Hara. Rather it says here rests Hara. The two verbs are very distinct. It makes me wonder…”

“Do you see a way inside, sir? Or should I have the men lower cutting devices?”

“We can try to break in, but I doubt we’ll be able to cut through this. I believe this is a pod from the original exploration ship in which our ancestors first came to this planet. Nothing short of a supernova would be able to blast through such material. However, there is a way in.”

“Sir?” Fergal 51 seemed only mildly intrigued. Few modern Alvians could work up any sort of real emotion. Fergal 51 was an obedient soldier and a more than able climber, but he lacked the scientific skills and inquisitive mind that was central to Cormac 7’s personality.

“This smaller text reads: Only Hara’s heir may unlock the secrets contained within. Bring him forth and have him prove his heritage. All the knowledge of the old world waits within.”

“That is certainly a prize worth pursuing, but Hara’s line died out with him, didn’t it?”

“On Alvia Prime, yes. On this planet? I think not.”

Order Now from

Amazon - Kobo

Quote of the Day

Gotta admit…this one made me giggle a little. We all know this person, right?

“Some people suffer in silence louder than others.” – Morrie Brickman

Today, let’s keep the contest rolling with something a little different. Share your favorite quote! Something you heard once that really spoke to you and stuck with you. Or…something that made you laugh. Comment for a chance to win $25 gift card to Amazon and an ARC of The Back-Up Plan.

Box Set Party!

Thanks to your irresistible love of  Biker Bad Boys, Riding Desire: Alpha Bad Boy Biker Boxed Set is a New York Times, USA TODAY AND ARe BESTSELLER! Thank you for your continuous support and appetite for sexy heroes!

With 14 Romance Books, 14 Bestselling Authors, and 1 Fierce Savings, Riding Desire is a hot and wild ride that you won’t want to miss! Full of romance, redemption and chrome-plated sizzle! Hop on for the ride of your life in #RIDINGDESIRE !

This is your chance to enjoy books from today’s New York Times, USA Today, Amazon and Barnes & Noble bestselling authors. Available for your reading PLEASURE at Amazon, Itunes, & Barnes & Noble:

Amazon  Itunes  Barnes&Noble

Helmet required: intended for readers 18+

Now how about an excerpt from my story in the set, Crash Point?

“Chloe. Look at me.”

Her eyelids flittered open, her vision clearly fuzzy. He waited until her focus returned. He saw the moment it happened because a crease formed in her brow. They’d acted on impulse, neither of them considering the consequences of what they were doing until now.

Blake’s heart raced and his jaw clenched as he resisted the overwhelming need to thrust, to pound, to fuck.

“I won’t be another regret.”

She frowned. “What?”

“I know you regret what happened between us all those years ago and I wish there was some way I could go back in time and change what I did, but I can’t. I can’t undo the hurt, Chloe. Can’t fix the mistakes.”

“Blake—”

“But I’m telling you right now, I can’t be another regret in your life. If that’s what this is going to be, say so and I’ll stop.”

She didn’t speak for several tense moments. Blake held his tongue, gave her time to decide while silently praying he’d have the strength to leave her if that was what she asked.

Finally, she cupped his cheek in her hand. “I don’t want you to stop.”

 

Oh, and while we’re celebrating box sets, how about taking a peek at a few more that are out there at a great price! Here are some amazing deals that I know you won’t want to miss out on!

DANGEROUS DOZEN BOX SET – $0.99

***Twelve fabulous romantic suspense books on sale for only 99 cents for a short time.*** 

The Dangerous Dozen–heroes who make danger sexy… These alpha male heroes know how to protect their women–and how to love them. This romantic suspense boxed set stars TWELVE smoking hot heroes in TWELVE full-length novels by TWELVE bestselling authors.

To Catch Her Man by Charity Pineiro, New York Times & USA Today Bestselling Author. Investigative reporter Sylvia Amenabar must decide between friendship, love and discovering the truth behind a cop’s murder… Undercover detective Carlos Ramirez nearly lost his life protecting Sylvia, but he knows it’ll be a fight to reach her heart. . . Can they learn to trust one another and find out the truth about a failed assignment that nearly killed Carlos? Or will the secrets of the past and family issues cost them the things they hold most dear.

I’ll Be Watching You by Tina Wainscott, New York Times Bestselling Author. Kim left her Everglades town under a cloud of scandal. Her grandmother’s murder brings her back to reclaim her home and unearth the truth…while a killer watches her every move.

Bedeviled by Maureen Child, USA Today Bestselling Author. A *faerie* funny paranormal.

Protective Custody by Paige Tyler, USA Today Bestselling Author. Someone is stalking reporter Paisley McCoy, and police detective Gray Beckham is the only man who can protect her. While the chemistry between them is undeniable, there’s no way he’s going near the captain’s daughter, and she had a hard and fast rule that says she doesn’t date cops. Can they both survive the stalker who’s coming after them long enough to realize how good they are together?

There’s a New Witch in Town by Tawny Weber, USA Today Bestselling Author. Her magic, his town, their love… is it enough? Or will a witch just regaining her powers have to choose between saving a cursed town, or giving up everything she’s come to care about?

In His Control by Nina Bruhns, International Bestselling Author. A rogue detective will do anything to catch the sexy international thief he’s fixated upon. When their titillating game of cat and mouse grows shockingly intimate, he must make the impossible choice between honor and duty…and the notorious woman he has unwittingly come to love.

Chosen by Sin by Virna DePaul, International Bestselling Author. A wounded alpha werebeast bent on revenge… A female vampire trying to save her adoptive dragon-shifter family… Can they stop a group of rebel shape-shifters from unleashing every demon in hell? Only if they relinquish their secrets, face their fears, and open themselves to love.

Imposter: The Protectors Series — Book One by Karen Fenech, International Bestselling author. Chemist Dr. Eve Collins, wrongly accused by the CIA of developing a chemical weapon, learns someone has set her up as a scapegoat. That “someone” wants her dead. To save her life, she must join forces with CIA Operative John Burke–the man who doesn’t believe her claim of innocence and the man she’s falling in love with.

Dark Tide Rising by Kristin Miller, National Bestselling Author. Police Sergeant Mark Thurgood is all work and no play, but he’s harboring secrets that tie him to the vengeful sea. Free-spirited Emily McAllister is haunted by premonitions, and the latest shows her death in a dark coastal cave. Can they put their desires aside to focus on the task at hand and find the killer before he finds her?

Big Bad Wolf by Gennita Low. On the run from shadowy enemies, a secret agent finds sunlight and love while working undercover for a female roofer.

Found Wanting by Joyce Lamb. She’s been on the run for 14 years. He’s been sent to bring her home, dead or alive. A boy’s life depends on what happens next. Can they overcome betrayal, lies and violence to find what they’ve always wanted?

High Tide by Maureen A. Miller. A couple locked in a struggle to protect the coast…and their lives.

 

LUCKY 7 ROMANTIC SUSPENSE BOX SET – $0.99

***Seven fabulous books on sale for only 99 cents for a short time.*** 

Get lucky with a bad boy. . . .

Whether he’s a rock star, a billionaire, or a playboy magician–whether he wears work boots or a suit and tie–bad boys have one thing in common: how good they can make a woman feel. This contemporary romance boxed set sizzles with SEVEN full-length novels by SEVEN bestselling authors, starring SEVEN unforgettable bad boys who will make you melt.

The Perfect Mix by Charity Pineiro, New York Times Bestselling Author. Contractor Rey Ramos has good looks, brains, money, and a heart of gold. But Rey also has a deep dark secret that could scare off his new client, Bianca Martinez, the woman who has captivated him. Rey isn’t eager to share the ugly reality of his past with Bianca and it would be totally foolish to fall in love with her, but Bianca is too tough to resist. . .

Heart Raider by Sophia Knightly, USA Today Bestselling Author. Stranded together during a rampaging hurricane, hot passion explodes between reclusive billionaire, Nick Cameron, and headstrong reporter, Veronique “Ronnie” Whitcomb. Ronnie is seeking Nick’s exclusive story…a story that could get her killed. Nick will risk his life – and his heart – to keep her alive. Try as he might to deny his feelings for her, keeping Ronnie at arm’s length becomes impossible.

Naughty Vegas Nights by Tawny Weber, USA Today Bestselling Author. Tired of her jinx-cursed love life, Natasha Stover figures the only way to fix it is to get naked and naughty with the guy who ruined her for all others. And Lady Luck is on her side…. A weekend in Sin City being a bad boy’s favorite toy just might be the cure Natasha’s been wishing for.

Warrior’s Bride by Nina Bruhns, International Bestselling Author. Bad boy lawyer Coleton Lonetree never expected to find the love of his life at an Indian powow. But when he takes the beautiful stranger into his arms, he is determined to make her his for all time, and stakes his claim in the most elemental way. The next morning, Rini Herelius finds herself hopelessly in love with her intriguing mystery-man–and pregnant with his child. More than anything she wants to keep him and her baby, but Fate has a way of spinning things out of control…turning heated lovers to passionate enemies.

Driven to Date by Susan Hatler, International Bestselling Author. Jill Parnell is all work and no play until her hard-earned promotion is handed to the boss’s nephew, Ryan Shaw. Ryan is gorgeous, has the office women swooning, and his blasé work attitude drives Jill insane. To get her mind off work and Ryan, she focuses on dating–every man except the one she can’t stop thinking about.

Bedding The Wrong Brother by Virna DePaul, National Bestselling Author. After a bad breakup, Melina enlists her childhood friend Max to tutor her in the art of passion. But she’s in for a surprise when Max’s twin brother Rhys steps up to the challenge…. Both sultry and sweet, this story is rated HHH (“Heat, Heart & HEA”) and involves a bed mix-up, hot identical twins, sex lessons, naughty word games, light restraint, a shy sex bomb who’s afraid she’s boring and a playboy hero determined to prove she’s got everything he’ll ever need.

Crazy in Love by Kristin Miller, National Bestselling Author. Historical inn owner Rachael McCoy has one simple rule: Don’t date guests. Too bad rock star playboy Cole Turner has come into town and is determined to change her mind. After botching his last performance, Cole’s looking for peace and quiet to regain focus, but finds so much more in the shy, but sexy innkeeper.

Ready to get lucky? Grab this fantastic boxed set and prepare to swoon!!

MAKE ME: 12 TALES OF DARK DESIRE – $2.99

Take a trip to the dark side with 12 books by some of the hottest names in edgy romance, including USA Today Bestselling authors CJ Roberts, Eliza Gayle, and Aleatha Romig!

Pam Godwin – Beneath the Burn

Skye Warren – Wanderlust

Claire Thompson – Enslaved

Cari Silverwood – Take Me Break Me

Annabel Joseph – Comfort Object

Aleatha Romig – Consequences

Shoshanna Evers – The Man Who Holds the Whip

Annika Martin – The Hostage Bargain

Jasmine Haynes – Take Your Pleasure

Eliza Gayle – Play With Me

Pepper Winters – Tears of Tess

CJ Roberts – Captive in the Dark

These e-books would cost over $40 if purchased separately. This set will only be available for a limited time, so order your copy now!

And don’t forget the contest! Simply leave a comment to tell me which box set theme appeals to you most! You can list one found here…or maybe one you’d like to see in the future. Up for grabs? $25 Amazon Gift Card and an ARC of my upcoming release, The Back-Up Plan.

Menage Madness

The Trinity Masters series continues in 2014! Lila and I are putting the finishing touches on the fourth book. In Forbidden Legacy, the shadowy Grand Master’s identity is revealed as a threat to the society puts their secret existence at risk. Harrison Adams has knows since birth that he would serve as leader of the Trinity Masters, inheriting the role from his father. His family have served as Grand Masters for decades, the role passed on from generation to generation.

In Scorching Desire, a blackmailer threatened to reveal the organization, but his scheme was foiled by Tasha, Marco and Damon. However, he disappeared before he could be brought to justice and his identity was never revealed. In Forbidden Legacy, the villain resurfaces and his crimes escalate, become deadly.

I had the rare opportunity to see Lila Dubois in February when her day job brought her to the East Coast. We met up in Pennsylvania and did some plotting on the future of the series. I can tell you right now…there are some cool things in the works!

Forbidden Legacy is slated to release on May 1. Today, I thought I’d share the blurb and a short sneak peek at the story (FYI–this is very rough–no editing has been done–sorry for any mistakes).

Forbidden Legacy

Trinity Masters, book 4

An enigmatic leader…

Harrison Adams has served as leader of the Trinity Masters for a decade. He’s always placed the group above his own needs—even when it comes to the one woman who calls to him. When a dangerous threat to the secret society surfaces, Harrison sets a plan in motion that could save the organization, but it comes with a price.

A steadfast woman…

Alexis turned down an invitation to join the Trinity Masters, afraid to relinquish control over her life, her future…her heart. That rejection means night after night of unrequited lust as she and Harrison are forced to ignore their desires. Her heart aching, she throws herself into her job and her difficult working relationship with her boss, Michael. He’s attractive and maddening, but Alexis has zero plans to give in to the crazy chemistry between them.

An improper proposal…

Harrison asks Alexis to experiment in a ménage relationship with him and she agrees unable to take another moment of longing for him. Perhaps with a third around she’ll be able to keep her heart intact. She is completely unaware their third will be her infuriating boss, Michael. She couldn’t have known how giving herself to them would inflame her desires. Or how much she would enjoy submitting to them.

But when an evil man looking for revenge sets his sights on Harrison, time is the one thing none of them have. And it soon becomes apparent Harrison’s forbidden legacy could destroy them all…

Sneak Peek (unedited):

“How are you doing?” Michael asked.

“I know why you’re here, Michael. We can skip the greetings part of the conversation.”

Michael leaned forward, his elbows on his knees. “You have three months, Harrison. Cutting it a bit close, aren’t you?”

Harrison laced his fingers together, resting them on the surface of his large desk. “I’m perfectly aware of how much time is needed to form this relationship.”

Actually he had less than three months. He needed to choose his partners, meeting them at the altar one month prior to their formal bonding ceremony. All trios were given one month to get to know each other and put their affairs in order before they embarked on a lifetime together. Which meant Harrison needed to secure his partners quickly.

Michael frowned, his face revealing his concern. Michael had no doubt guessed what was holding Harrison back from solidifying his future.

Their future.

But his friend’s suspicions were wrong.

Michael had never asked why Harrison hadn’t found matches for him. At forty-four, Michael’s days as a single man were about to come to an end as well. Harrison could only surmise Michael understood exactly why he’d been left unattached for so long. If that was true, then it proved to Harrison just how solid their friendship was. Michael trusted him. Which made this all so much more difficult.

Price was relieved by Harrison’s easy acquiescence. “Then we can assume you have found suitable partners for yourself? As I mentioned last year, there is a bylaw that states Michael and I can choose for you if you so desire.”

“And as I said last year, I don’t need help.” Even as Harrison spoke the words, he recognized the fallacy. He was sinking, neck-deep in quicksand, and if he didn’t uncover the identity of the man trying to destroy him soon, he would be swallowed completely.

He didn’t just need help. He needed a miracle.

“Then we can trust you to set your affairs in order?” Michael’s tone let Harrison know he really didn’t want to have to issue this ultimatum again.

“You can.”

Price seemed appeased, while Michael didn’t appear as reassured. Regardless, both men rose, nodded, and took their leave.

When the door closed behind them, Harrison closed his eyes, releasing a long sigh.

Then, he imagined her face. For fifteen years, it had been her. Always her.

Alexis had walked into his classroom and claimed a seat in the front row all those years ago, her gaze challenging him to teach her something, anything.

Everything.

He’d never met a more intelligent woman, one with the desire to learn, the drive to succeed, and the heart to excel in her field. She was cleverness and compassion, talent and poise—all wrapped up in one beautiful package. She was everything the Trinity Masters sought in their membership.

Harrison had issued her an invitation to become a part of their society the night of her graduation from medical school.

And she’d refused to join.

Harrison had forced himself to accept her decision, ignoring his disappointment. His broken heart.

Alexis was the woman he couldn’t have, couldn’t share with his best friend, even though it was what he desired more than anything. She was the forbidden fruit.

Harrison knew his duty to the society and understood the importance of his role.

But he also knew his heart.

And, sadly, they were working in direct opposition.

 

Hey, did you know Lila and I have a released a free read called After Burn? It’s a look at how the triad in Scorching Desire found a way to make their menage work. You can find it here. It’s just a short story in .pdf.

Now…how about a contest question? Remember, all you have to do is comment here for a chance to win a $25 gift card to Amazon and an ARC copy of The Back-Up Plan (releasing on April Fool’s Day). Winner will be announced on March 15. Today, let’s go scandalous and fun! If you could live your life in a menage relationship, who would be the other two people in your threesome? It can be anyone in the world, alive now or historical!

Wild, Wild West

It’s been a busy Compass year for me thus far, which I LOVE. There is just something about that family and Compton Pass that makes me never want to leave. In February, the print volume of Winter’s Thaw released, then Summer Fling, the third book came out a week later. Summer may be one of my favorite stories in the Compass series. There was something a little bit broken and sad about Jade that made me long for her to find happiness. I spent an incredible amount of time working on the prologue to that book. Jayne and I agreed that like the Compass Brothers series (which showed scenes of the brothers as they prepared to leave home), the Girls books would open with each cousin celebrating her Sweet 16 birthday. Sienna had a sleepover and Hope a big fancy party. I realized Jade, the tomboy of the group, would want to celebrate a bit differently. I teared up the entire time I wrote the conversation between Jade and Liam in the cemetery because I just ached for these two characters.

Many people have remarked on the sadness of Vivi’s story. Like the scenes with JD in the brothers series, having Vivi share her memories of her own romance with her alpha cowboy have been a bittersweet blend of happy and sad. I love Vicky–her strength, her wisdom, everything. I didn’t feel like that came out enough in Compass Brothers, so Jayne and I knew she would be central to these books. Plus so many people have asked for a JD and Vicky book. We considered writing it, then thought it might be more interesting to tell it as part of the fabric of the Compass Girls series.

And…as for the Compass Boys…my answer to whether or not their stories will be told is…I don’t know. Sorry. Right now, Jayne and I are completely bogged down in other stories and commitments, but I never say never. Every time I do, it just bites me in the butt. lol

Today I thought I’d share a bit of that prologue with you–a never before seen excerpt from Summer Fling.

A twig snapped nearby. Jade jerked, standing quickly to flash her light toward the sound.

“Who’s there?” She cursed the tremor in her voice. She was so stupid to venture to the cemetery alone. Her parents didn’t even know she was out of the house.

“I’m sorry,” came a deep voice from the shadows. “I didn’t mean to disturb you. I wasn’t expecting anyone else to be here.”

She waved her phone around until she found the speaker. He lifted his hand to shield his eyes from the bright light. Compton Pass wasn’t so large that she didn’t know most people, if not by name, then at least by face. Unfortunately, she couldn’t see his because it was hidden.

She moved the light until the brunt of the beam shone on his chest and he lowered his hand. “Hey, I know you. You’re Liam Harrison. Your parents own the farm next to my family’s ranch.” His family was famous for their rodeo livestock, contracting to some of the biggest rodeos in the state.

Liam nodded. “You’re one of the Compass Girls, right?”

She grinned. She and her cousins, Sienna, Hope and Sterling, had worn that nickname since the day they started kindergarten. Apparently, four rowdy Compton cousins all entering school together had made an impression on the teacher. Where one of them was, the other three were never far away, so Miss Lacey had lumped them together and called them her Compass Girls.

Of course, Jade figured turnabout was fair play. She and her cousins had done the same thing with the Mothers, their playful moniker for Jade’s mom, Leah, and her aunts Jody, Cindi and Lucy.

“I’m Jade Compton.”

Liam frowned. “The sheriff’s daughter?”

“Yeah.”

“He know you’re out here alone?”

Damn. Jade tried to decide how to play this. It was a pain in the ass being the only daughter of the only lawman in town. While her dad, Sawyer, had a reputation as being a strict but fair sheriff, his overprotectiveness when it came to his little girl was fairly well known.

“Um…sort of.”

Liam chuckled. He walked closer, and she noticed the bouquet of red roses in his hand. Mercifully, the moon had burst through a break in the clouds, allowing her to flip off her flashlight. While she didn’t know Liam personally, she’d seen him around town. He’d been the captain of the football team his senior year, though Jade had been five years behind him, too young to know him from school.

But she knew him well enough to realize he wasn’t a threat to her. Unless he told her father about catching her in the cemetery in the middle of the night.

He leaned down to read her brother’s name in the granite. “George Compton?”

Jade nodded slowly. “My twin brother.”

Liam glanced at her. She braced herself for the pity she expected and was surprised when instead she found understanding. “Happy birthday.”

She smiled. “Thanks.” Touched by his kindness, she pushed her luck and confessed, “My dad doesn’t know I’m here.”

“Yeah. I didn’t think so.”

Something about his tone told her Liam wouldn’t sell her out.

“I’d appreciate it if you’d—”

“I’m not going to tell on you, Jade.”

She breathed a sigh of relief. “Thanks. Again.”

Liam pointed at the grave. “You come here by yourself often?”

She shook her head. “No. I always come with my mom. Tonight I just had some things I wanted to say to George alone. That probably sounds dumb to you.”

“Not at all.”

“He died in childbirth.” It was inane thing to say. That much was clear from the inscription on the grave. “It was a rough delivery. My mom started hemorrhaging. The doctor was able to save me, but George didn’t…”

Her words drifted away. Vivi was the only adult in her life who’d been willing to tell Jade about the night she was born. Jade had asked her grandmother point-blank a couple of years earlier and instead of receiving the standard “some things went wrong” response she’d always gotten from her parents and aunts and uncles, Vivi sat her down and declared her old enough to know the truth. She’d explained about the uterine rupture and her mother’s hemorrhaging. In order to stop the bleeding, the doctor had been forced to perform a C-section, then a hysterectomy. George hadn’t made it.

Liam disrupted her thoughts. “I’m surprised George is buried here. Don’t the Comptons have a burial plot on the ranch?”

Jade nodded. “Yeah, but my family lives in town, so Dad can be close to the station. Vivi said my mom took my brother’s death really hard. My granddaddy JD died just before my mom got pregnant, then her mom—my Grandma Hollister—had a massive heart attack four months before George and I were born. In the course of one year, my mom lost three people she loved.”

“Damn,” Liam whispered. “I can’t imagine.”

“I know. Me either. Vivi told me Mom sort of fell apart in the hospital, begged my dad not to take her baby so far away.” Jade closed her eyes and imagined her mother’s desolation, then she recalled the concrete angel. The statue stopped being scary the day Vivi explained why George was buried in the church cemetery instead of on Compass Ranch. Since then, whenever Jade looked at the figure, she saw her mother’s face, felt her pain. “They buried George here next to Grandma Hollister. Seemed fitting, considering he was named after her.”

Liam looked at the headstone next to George’s. “Georgia Hollister.”

Jade grinned. “After Mom and Dad found out they were having twins, they decided to name us after the parents they’d lost. My dad has a bit of twisted sense of humor, so they named George after my grandma and me after Granddaddy Compton.”

Liam smiled. “Jade is for JD? That’s nice. I only know of your grandfather through reputation, but something tells me he would have loved having you as his namesake. Here.” Liam pulled a rose from his bouquet. “A birthday present for your brother.” He handed her the flower.

She appreciated the gesture. Turning, she placed it on top of her brother’s grave.

“And one for your grandma.” Liam plucked another flower from the bunch and placed it on Grandma Hollister’s headstone.

“Thank you.” Curiosity finally won out. “Who are the flowers for?”

Liam’s expression darkened, sadness replacing the humor that had been there only seconds before. “Celia.”

Available from Amazon, Samhain and Barnes and Noble.

By the way, did you know Samhain Publishing is selling all their books 50% off at their site? No idea how long this sale will last, but that’s a damn good deal! 

For today’s contest, I want to know…which book in the Compass series (Brothers and Girls)  is your favorite and why? Comment here for a chance to win a $25 Amazon gift card and an ARC of The Back-Up Plan. 

Cover Wars!

I’m taking a short break in my Winter Writing-land contest so you can go cast your vote for your favorite cover! It’s Riding Desire vs. Make Me!
Cover Wars with Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews on Facebook!

hosted by Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews

Who will remain standing? It’s COVER WARS! That’s right. MAKE ME vs. RIDING DESIRE. Come join in the fun and win some free books at Sinfully Sexy Books. 

Thursday March 6th 10am – 11pm (EST)

10am: Annika Martin vs. Suzanne Rock

11am: Jasmine Haynes vs. Daire St. Denis

12pm RG Alexander vs. Claire Thompson

1pm Eden Bradley vs. CJ Roberts

2pm Skye Warren vs Avery Aster

3pm Eliza Gayle vs. Sharon Page 

4pm Pepper Winters vs. Marian Tee

5pm Annabel Joseph vs. Lauren Hawkeye

6pm Mari Carr vs. Shoshanna Evers 

7pm Aleatha Romig vs. Sara Fawkes

8pm Pam Godwin vs. Opal Carew

(This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook or Amazon.)

Winter Writing-land Party

It’s been one of the snowiest winters I can recall in a very long time. I know there are a lot of folks who’ve declared themselves officially sick of snow and freezing cold and bitter wind chills. And in some ways…I’m right there too. But then I look at all I’ve been able to accomplish since the ball dropped on 2014 and I’m thrilled! I’m ahead of the game and all these lovely snow days have allowed me to finish projects early, while granting me the time to join others! So I feel like celebrating. What do you say we enjoy these last days of winter (it’s gotta end some time, right?) with a contest, some sexy pics, steamy excerpts, sneak peeks of future stories and a little insider info of what’s coming for me the REST of this year. Yes–I HAVE planned that far ahead! lol

No rafflecopter this time. Let’s just go old school. I’m going to spend the next week or so partying in this Winter Writing-land. If you want a chance to win, just leave a comment here. It’s as simple as that. Comment everyday for more chances to win. I’ll draw a winner on Saturday, March 15.

Now…we need a prize. How about a $25 gift card to Amazon and an ARC of my upcoming release, The Back-Up Plan? Sound cool?

Let’s start with something fun! Last week, Riding Desire hit the USA TODAY bestseller list. If that’s not a reason to party, then I don’t know what is! So let’s celebrate! Riding Desire is available for just .99 cents, so if you haven’t gotten your copy yet, I hope you’ll pop over and grab it. How about some man candy to entice you? To have your name thrown in the hat, simply tell me in the comments section, which quote/sexy guy pushes your HAWT button! I can tell you right now…they sure as hell got me revved up and ready to ride!

Catch ‘n’ Kiss

So…Are You Game? Rhian Cahill is back with another fun romance!

In this game of chase, a kiss isn’t the only reward.



Are You Game? Book 2

Divorced with two teenage daughters, Jody Walsh doesn’t need any more complications in her life, and Dan O’Conner is proving to be a big one. His pursuit may give her bruised ego a much-needed boost, but Jody’s learned to guard her heart and trust is something she isn’t willing to give another man no matter how well he kisses.

One kiss and Dan knows what he wants. He isn’t about to walk away from the kind of chemistry he and Jody have. Unfortunately, the more he chases the more she runs. If only he could get her running in his direction.

When a night of passion doesn’t convince her they’re meant to be, Dan is left with no choice but to prove he’s worth taking a risk on, no matter how much he complicates her life.

Product Warnings

Story contains a woman not willing to put her heart at risk and a man determined to persuade her otherwise—and he’s willing to use his washing machine to show her why he’s worth it.

Excerpt:

Dan watched Jody dash from the room and smiled. She might want to pretend there was nothing between them, but she couldn’t hide from her feelings any more than he could. He’d seen the tell-tale reactions her body had presented on more than one occasion over the last few weeks. He wanted to thank his lucky stars that they’d ended up thrown together this weekend, but that seemed horrible when he considered the reason she’d had to come along on this job. Then again, fate was fickle and he wouldn’t look a gift horse in the mouth.

He rolled his chair back and swung his feet up on the desk. He’d wait her out. She had to come back, and he’d been laying low long enough. Time to push her a little. Dan knew he was being arrogant in his approach. Figured she’d call him on it too, but he was enjoying the game. His usual MO when it came to women was simple. Get in, get out. The two long-term relationships—if a few months could be considered long—had been more a convenience than any real need. He wasn’t all that sure he liked the man he was.

With Jody, he wanted to savour the chase. His mother had taught him nothing worth having should come easy, and he should always strive to make something better than it was. That probably explained why he’d never stuck when it came to relationships. The women he’d dated had come easily, and those that hadn’t weren’t even a blip on his radar. But this women. Jody. She was different. Everything about her made him stand up and take notice. From the moment they’d been introduced, he’d felt the buzz.

At first, he’d been so set on disliking her—or the idea of her—that he hadn’t registered what was really going on. And if he were honest, he’d admit he’d still been blind right up until the instant he’d laid his lips on hers. He shook his head. Damn, he was an idiot. Blind. Stupid. Ignorant. Each word described him perfectly. Right up until the kiss. In that second, the fog had cleared from his mind and he’d seen with HD-technicolour clarity. Jody Walsh had rocked his world to its foundations. But if he was lucky—and God help him, he wanted to be—she’d help him build them back up again.

Oh, he knew it was too soon to think so seriously, but he’d had days to think about their chemistry, weeks to ponder the absolute rarity of such a connection, and there was no way around it. What he felt for Jody wasn’t just simple lust. He knew lust. Christ, he’d spent his whole adult life letting it lead him around by the dick. This was bone deep and raw edged. For the first time in his life, he felt as though he’d be missing out on something amazing if he didn’t get the girl.

Jody walked back in, her steps faltering when she saw him leaning back in his chair. “Oh, I thought you would be gone.”

Hoped more like it. “Nope.” He smiled. “Still here.”

She headed for her desk. Without looking his way again, she scooped up the file for the weekend job, pulled her bag from a drawer and turned to leave. “Bye.”

He could have predicted her snub. She’d made an art of ignoring him for the last three weeks, except he wasn’t about to let her get away with it any longer. He pushed out of his chair and met her near the door. “I’m heading out too.”

The scowl on her face said it all, and it took considerable effort and a bitten cheek to keep from grinning. Dan let her precede him through the door, let her lead the way downstairs, but once they made it to the bottom of the stairwell, he crowded close behind her. She picked up her pace, and this time there was no stopping the smirk from stretching his lips. When they neared the door, he scooted around her and opened it before she could. He waited for the I’m-capable speech. Women these days couldn’t seem to accept a kind gesture no matter how small.

“Thank you,” she murmured as she walked past.

His shock was so great it took him a second to follow. He’d expected her to lash out. God knows she never accepted his help when he offered. Suddenly she was thanking him for giving her a hand without asking? Dan wasn’t sure what to make of this latest shift in attitude, but he didn’t have time to dwell on it. He had something else he wanted to do before they parted ways. Hurrying, he caught her just as she reached her car.

“Hey.” As he’d hoped, she spun around, putting her back to her car, and he moved right in.

“Wha—”
Dan lowered his head and slanted his mouth across hers.

Her lips parted as she sucked in a breath—his breath—and he took the opportunity to slide his tongue inside her mouth. The moan that issued from her throat had his blood racing and his balls tightening. Minty fresh, her taste exploded—saturated his mouth with memory and need. He’d wanted this for weeks. Days. Hours.

Forever.

He tangled their tongues and pressed in closer. They touched from chest to thigh, and Dan wanted the barriers between them gone. Wanted to rip the clothes from their bodies and really feel her against him. Except that wasn’t going to happen here. There were enough brain cells still functioning for him to know that. Instead, he angled his hips, pushed his leg between hers and rubbed against her. She moaned into his mouth and he increased the pressure.

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