Mari Carr's Blog, page 88
January 1, 2012
Happy New Year!
Thanks to everyone who helped me countdown to 2012!
Prize winners were:
Happy Holidays winner – Tracey D.
Day Six winner – Katy McKee
Day Five winner – Sue A.
Day Four Winner – Lisa Anderson
Day Three Winner – Kris M.
Day Two Winner – Kaylyn Davis
Day One Winner – KittyKelly
Grand Prize Winner -Darlene C
Welcome 2012! Looking ahead–I'm so pleased to have so many awesome things to look forward to!
On January 24, Because You Love Me releases.
Safety in numbers? Depends on what you mean by safe…
Bridget Wilder's life is shot to hell—literally—when she witnesses the murder of her best friend, Lyle. Protective custody? What a joke. Time after time, someone has leaked her whereabouts, forcing her to run from one safe house to the next.
Tired of cold, lonely beds and living in fear, Bridget convinces her guardian cop she's safer off the grid, following Lyle's trail of clues to a missing flash drive that could put the killer behind bars.
It doesn't take twins Mark and Matt James long to figure out two things. Bridget's not only in trouble, she is trouble—they both want her. When things get a little hot and heavy one night, though, they're stunned to discover that they don't mind sharing. And she loves being shared.
Between the James brothers' hot, hard bodies, Bridget finally feels safe—and loved. When a hit man tracks her down, the last thing she wants is for them to place those bodies between her and danger. But those cowboys have other ideas. Like keeping her alive long enough to convince her she belongs with them. Forever.
Product Warnings
Scary times ahead! An evil judge, a car chase, a hit man and more! Luckily, the rough times are soothed by lots and lots of ménage sex with two red-hot alpha cowboys.
On March 6, the final Compass Brothers book, Western Ties, releases.How strong are the ties that bind?Compass Brothers, Book 4Leah Hollister's sex life needs a swift kick in the pants. Small-town Compton Pass, though, isn't the place to explore her need for bondage. When she gets an invitation to a BDSM party out in LA, she wastes no time booking a flight.Her plan to play anonymously is shot to hell when she runs into high-school crush Sawyer Compton—and he lays immediate claim to her.Sawyer Compton commands total control, in and out of the bedroom. He never thought Leah could handle his darker urges, but one look at the white bracelet that marks her as a sub ripe for the picking, and he knows exactly how this night is going to end. With Leah in his bed.Leah didn't expect to enjoy the comfort Sawyer's familiarity brings, even as his touch takes her to unimaginable heights of pleasure. When bad news from home sends him reeling, she's more than prepared to offer him anything he needs: her body, her friendship. Even her heart—if Sawyer can loosen the reins over his own to accept her love.
Product Warnings
Invest in tissues. Lots and lots of tissues. Between spicy, set-the-sheets-on-fire bondage romps and the last Compass brother coming home, you'll need them.
In June, Dangerous Curves – the print anthology of Power Play and Rough Cut releases in print.Rough Cut
Ty thinks he has it all until he reads a book that touches him in places kept hidden from the tabloids. He invites Gwen, the author, toHollywoodto work on a script. The moment he sees her, he realizes there's something missing in his life, and it's her. Gwen's won over by Ty's charm, discovering there's more to him than a handsome face. As they re-enact scenes that delve into the BDSM realm, it sets Ty free to unleash his powerful cravings and exposes Gwen's deepest needs.
Power Play
Reed is snagged him by the balls when Francesca announces she's always fantasized about having sex with a stranger—a fantasy he is more than willing to help come true. While the sparks may fly between them physically, Francesca doesn't believe they could spend more than a few minutes in the same room without arguing. When Francesca reports for her new position, she discovers she's Reed's partner. Competition is fierce—and hot. The hotter it gets, the closer they come to something they never intended…or expected.
In Sept, Love's Compass – the print anthology of Northern Exposure and Southern Comfort releases in print.
In Northern Exposure, Silas Compton exiled himself toAlaskato help him get over his unconventional attraction to both of his best friends, Colby and Lucy. When an accident sends Silas home, ten years later, he has to face the truth about his feelings. When things start to unravel on the ranch, will he be able to step up? This time, his family needs him.
In Southern Comfort, Seth Compton has known for years he was falling for Jody Kirkland. When she graduates from college and returns home with a diploma and a fiancé, Seth is determined to prove that they belong together. Even if it means hogtying the stubborn woman to his bed until she comes to her senses.
In October, Eastern Ambitions releases in print.He's lost everything. Can he win her heart?Compass Brothers, Book 3Sam Compton never liked getting his hands dirty, at least not on Compass Ranch. Armed with a business degree, he's about to become the youngest VP at an illustrious Wall Street investment firm. Until his partner in an office romance turns into an ultra-refined snake in the grass.Staggering from the punch of betrayal, another blow threatens to level him. His father is dying. He races home to lend his brain to his brothers' backs at the ranch, and finds something he never expected. A sophisticated yet playful woman stimulates his mind…and parts below the belt.Compass Ranch gave Cindi Middleton's wounded soul everything it needs: a home, acceptance, and respect—not to mention unlimited sex—from the ranch's sexy cowboys. Despite their instant and intense sparks, Sam's defection to the bright city lights she left behind is a big red flag. She's been there, done that, burned the T-shirt.Yet the heat of their attraction brings them circling back to each other's arms…until a certain snake reappears, threatening to endanger the acquisition of the one thing Sam has realized is truly priceless.
Product Warnings
Tissue alert! The authors recommend you have a few on hand while reading this book. To make up for any sniffles, a host of cowboys with open arms await to console you, distract you or make your wildest dreams come true.
December 31, 2011
Countdown to 2012! One!
And the countdown continues! Yesterday's winner was...Kaylyn Davis. Remember, comment everyday for a chance to win one of the daily featured books and to have your name thrown in the hat for the grand prize (a $25 GC to Amazon and a signed book from me).
One…
[image error]Travis from White Knight nearly took over Black Jack. Damn, never had anyone's story scream so loud in my head. Knew him instantly. Unfortunately, it took a long time for Shea to appear. Once she did, I just thought "Thank God!" The historical parts on this book were the hardest bits to write and I actually had a completely different flashback story. Deleted the whole damn thing after a very long phone call with my editor one night and started over! It was crazy and tricky, but the first version was just a mess!
Prologue
Travis Knight turned away from the two-way glass in his office, the performance on the stage no longer filling that empty place inside him. Tonight's fantasy involved a harem girl captured by a dominant sheik. The talented actors—his best friends—had never failed to capture his attention and enflame his imagination, but tonight the show left him cold.
Dropping onto a chair, he rubbed a weary hand over his face, his gaze traveling from one end of the room to the next. His desk was an experiment in disorderly conduct, papers stacked high, covering every horizontal inch of oak surface on the antique. He'd acquired the desk at an auction, the overly large piece appealing to him at the time. It was a desk that spoke of power and purpose, two attributes he'd worked hard to maintain throughout his life. Like the piles of shit teetering precariously atop it, he suspected all his hard-won control was about to topple as well.
His gaze moved to the walls lined with bookshelves, overflowing with countless novels. An avid reader, Travis' tastes ran the gamut from horror to poetry. Books—like the fetish fantasies enacted in his club—allowed him brief escapes from reality. Glancing at the table beside him, he studied the dust gathering on the cover of the last book he'd attempted to read. He hadn't picked it up in weeks, the words failing to pull him out of his stupor, his depression.
Darkness had finally descended and Travis was helpless to hold it at bay. He was too fucking tired of the fight. Enough was enough. Leaning his head back, he closed his eyes and succumbed to it. Clenching his fists, he considered his next move. It was clear he couldn't remain in this club, couldn't escape the demons roaming the rooms.
Maybe he'd leave Scoundrels to Emma. Give it to her and Jack as an engagement gift. After all, they'd found each other on the stage below. He knew their happiness and love shouldn't leave him with this ache in his gut, but he couldn't shake it. It was selfishness, pure and simple. He could admit that shortcoming. It's not like he was proud of it. He wasn't. Even so, that didn't make it go away.
His friends had discovered love after years of standing right in front of each other. Love had a funny way of showing up in moments when you least expected it. At least that's what Emma said. Travis had never felt the emotion. Not once. He grimaced and rubbed his side. Fucking ache was back again. He was screwed up—no two ways about it. Thinking about love shouldn't cause physical pangs. Jesus.
He likened himself to a gentleman soldier, wounded and home from war. He could picture himself, scarred from too many battles, hardened by killing and bloodshed. He'd lock himself away in a dreary, cold manor, letting the chill and dampness settle into his bones as he waited for death to claim him. He'd shut himself away from the balls, the ton, the matchmaking grande dames, keeping everyone at arm's length to live out the rest of his days in misery.
White Knight is available at Ellora's Cave, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Sony and All Romance Ebooks.
Last one!!!! I wrote Wild Irish Christmas in early October, right after coming off Western Ties. I needed the Collins clan to get me over my Compass sadness! And you know what? It worked!
Chapter One
"Holy mother of sweet divine Jerusalem," Patrick Collins muttered.
Riley laughed at him. "Oh come on, Pop, it'll be fun. Where's your Christmas spirit?"
Patrick shook his head. "Riley Collins Young, I cannot imagine what possessed you to come up with this harebrained scheme, but I'm fairly certain the spirit of the holidays had nothing to do with it."
"Actually, Pop, I have to disagree," Tris added. He lifted a fifth of Jameson Irish Whiskey. "Spirits had everything to do with it."
Keira grinned. "We're not opening that bottle until later. You guys start taking nips and we'll never get the tree decorated."
Tris gave her a dirty look. "Whiskey might make that chore bearable."
"I said I wasn't fooling with a tree this year," Patrick argued. "Didn't think it was worth the fuss since we're celebrating Christmas day at Keira's house."
"You need a tree, Pop. Otherwise you'll turn into Scrooge." Teagan kissed him lightly on the cheek.
Patrick put his hands on his hips. "What on earth do your families think of this? You have kids. You should be with them on Christmas morning."
Killian raised his hands. "Hey, don't look at me. Lily isn't due for three more months. Justin's looking after her."
Riley laughed. "My sweet little baby Sunday isn't even a year old yet. She doesn't have a clue what tomorrow is. Although Bubbles and I did manage to convince Aaron to play Santa this year. I figure the image of Aaron in a white beard riding his motorcycle down Keira's driveway with a sack of presents on his back should ensure Sunday's in therapy for years to come."
Wild Irish Christmas is available at Ellora's Cave, Amazon, and Barnes and Noble.
So…it's New Year's Eve. Time to say goodbye to the old year and ring in the new one. It's always an exciting time because it feels like a new beginning, a chance to make the next year even better than the last. My writing resolutions for this year include finishing the Cocktales series, co-writing a romantic comedy series with Lexxie Couper and trying my hand at self publishing.
What about you? What are your goals for 2012?
Saturday Snippet
When I tried to think of a character who needed a happy ending, Travis from White Knight immediately came to mind. Travis suffered some terrible stuff in his life and he desperately needed a happily ever after. I thought I'd share a snippet from White Knight with you today.
[image error]Snippet:
Pulling out her tips for the night, Shea counted the money. She had a little over two hundred dollars. She sighed with relief, so happy to have money in her hands. It was enough for a room at the fleabag motel—as she liked to call the crummy place she'd been staying—and some food. Unfortunately it was two a.m. and she didn't like the idea of venturing into East Hollywood so late. While she was desperate for a roof over her head, especially after spending last night dozing in a Laundromat chair, she wasn't stupid enough to put herself in danger.
She rubbed her eyes wearily, too tired to think. She couldn't keep trying to exist from day to day. When she'd come to L.A., she'd had a plan, a goal. She looked one last time at the comfortable bed, wishing she could lay her head on the pristine white pillow. Then she stood up and headed back to the bar.
"How you doin', kid?" Bill asked.
Shea had instantly liked the bartender. He was a gruff-looking man—ex-Marine, according to Emma—in his mid-forties. He was quick to laugh and just as quick to eviscerate rude drunks. As long as patrons behaved at his bar, all was well.
"Fine. I finished cleaning in the theater."
"Great. The other gals took care of the dance floor area and the bar. I'm just about to finish a few things. You mind checking the bathrooms for me one last time? Make sure there aren't any drunks curled up in the corner and the lights are off."
She grinned. "I don't mind. I'll do it before I head out." The back door to the club led to a parking lot. Shea recalled seeing an all-night diner across the street from the lot. Maybe she could have a cup of coffee there, caffeine up and try to figure out her next move. If she could remain awake until daybreak, she could hit the subway with the commuters and head back to the cheap motel to catch a few hours of sleep on the lumpy mattress.
"Oh hey. Here's your bag."
She'd asked Bill to stow her duffel behind the bar. She was ashamed to say everything she owned in the world was in that bag. He'd remarked on the size of it when she'd come to work, but mercifully hadn't questioned her. "See you tomorrow, Shea."
She took the bag and hitched it onto her arm. "Good night, Bill."
Walking down the hallway, she heard Bill humming as he worked. She opened the door to the men's room, peering inside. The place was empty. Switching the lights off, she crossed the hall to the women's bathroom. It was also deserted.
She recalled the bed on stage…the clean sheets, the soft mattress.
An idea formed. A terribly stupid idea.
Glancing back toward the bar, she noticed Bill had gone to the kitchen. She took a deep breath for courage—then walked into the bathroom and turned off the lights.
The room was plunged into darkness and her heart began to race. Her earlier exhaustion gave way to nervousness and fear. What the hell was she doing?
Feeling her way across the room, she let herself into the stall farthest from the door. Sitting down on the toilet, she waited in silence. Too many minutes later, she heard the sound she'd been dreading and anticipating. She lifted her feet and sat frozen. The back door opened then closed. She heard a lock being thrown into place.
Shea remained where she was for fifteen minutes longer then lowered her feet and stood.
She'd done it. She was locked in the club. Christ, she was insane. She'd just gotten the job and with one foolish, rash act, she'd probably jeopardized it.
Reaching into her bag, she pulled out her mini-flashlight. Switching it on, she pulled off the white blouse and black mini Emma had supplied her with earlier. She didn't want to wrinkle the material since she'd have to wear it again tomorrow and she certainly didn't have an iron.
She pulled on a t-shirt and loose sleep shorts, brushed her teeth then left the bathroom, walking toward the stage, grabbing a blanket from the hutch along the way. If she was going to lose her job, she'd at least make it worth her while. When she reached the bed, she slipped off her shoes and lay down. She covered herself with the simple blanket but didn't dare crawl between the sheets, already feeling guilty for taking advantage of Emma's kindness. She took out her small travel alarm clock and set it for eleven. She prayed no one found her. Maybe after a good night's sleep, she'd be smarter, be able to figure out what the hell she should do next. For tonight, she was too tired and the bed was too soft.
Travis watched his new waitress curl up on the bed and fall asleep. He had watched her all night as she'd worked. Emma had stopped by after the show to tell him how impressed she was with the new girl's waitressing abilities.
He didn't give a damn about her drink-slinging talents. Travis had been fascinated by her face. She was pretty, but it was the look of determination and—for lack of a better word—hunger that caught his eye. He recognized the exhaustion, the desperation and fear written there. He'd come to know those emotions well. He also felt a definite attraction. That would come as a surprise to Emma, who often accused him of taking the California-girls dream too far. He typically surrounded himself with tall, slim, suntanned blondes. Shea, with her dark hair, pale complexion and curvaceous body, didn't fit that bill.
He'd watched her walk into the women's room on one of the security monitors and been surprised when she didn't come back out. After Bill locked up, he'd waited patiently. She didn't disappoint him. Travis watched her sneak out with flashlight in hand. He picked up his phone, ready to call the police. However, her attire confused him and he paused. She appeared to be dressed in pajamas.
When she walked to the stage and lay down on the bed, he rose, watching her through the two-way glass. That was when he realized her goal wasn't robbery, it was rest.
He stood watching her for nearly half an hour. Once he decided the exhausted girl was deeply asleep, he quietly crept down the stairs at the back of the stage. Shedding his shoes at the foot of the staircase, he padded across the stage until he stood next to her. Dim lighting from his open office door illuminated her face.
Shea Landon. Emma had told Travis her name. While he was typically absent from the main parts of the club, there was very little that happened in the place he didn't know about.
He was curious about the petite woman. Reaching down, he picked up her duffel bag, retrieving the mini-flashlight she'd used earlier. He didn't feel guilty about searching her stuff. After all, the woman was squatting in his club. Best to make sure she didn't have a weapon.
Her bag didn't answer his questions. If anything, it added more. There were several changes of clothing, some toiletries, a wallet and four books—all of them reminding him of the romance novels he'd been reading lately. Who the hell was this woman?
He replaced her things and put the duffel back on the floor. Shea rolled over and curled into a ball, nearly losing her blanket in the process. Travis slowly and carefully pulled the blanket up until it once more covered his sleeping waitress.
He was losing his mind. If he had half a brain, he'd wake her and fire her ass. Shea mumbled something incoherent and he grinned.
"You're going to be trouble, aren't you?" he whispered.
She sighed, but didn't stir.
Fuck it. He wasn't going to fire her. Where was the fun in that?
He climbed the stairs to his office, shutting the door. Usually he headed to his apartment but he didn't want to leave Shea alone. Grabbing a blanket from the chair, he lay down on the couch. For the first time in a long time, he actually felt sleepy, his usual insomnia remaining at bay. His last thought before he drifted to sleep was of Shea. He didn't know who she was, but she'd done something no one had done in a very long time.
Surprised him.
White Knight is available at Ellora's Cave, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Sony and All Romance Ebooks.
Want some more happy endings? Check these out!
December 30, 2011
Countdown to 2012! Two…
And the countdown continues! Yesterday's winner was…Kris M. Remember, comment everyday for a chance to win one of the daily featured books and to have your name thrown in the hat for the grand prize (a $25 GC to Amazon and a signed book from me).
Two…
Aw…I loved this story. I thought it was sappy and romantic and ridiculously sweet. Had fun with it and I had to eavesdrop extra on the cougar boys at school to write the sports-related stuff because basketball is NOT my thang! Slam Dunk is the sequel to Happy Hour and was one of those books I never intended to write. I had a ton of readers ask for Trey's story. They wanted him to find his Happily Ever After. When I thought about it, I realized I wanted him to find it as well!
Chapter One
The Warm-Up
"Hey! Welcome back, bro."
Trey Donovan laughed as his best friend, Jamie, entered Tully's Bar and slapped him on the shoulder.
"Thanks for getting the table." Grace, Jamie's girlfriend, bent down and kissed Trey on the cheek as she and Jamie claimed their usual places.
He and his friends had been holding happy hours at this bar for years. As teachers at a local high school, it wasn't unusual for them to meet on Fridays to unwind after a long week or to celebrate special occasions—birthdays and big high school sports wins. Today, they were mourning the loss of summer. Come Monday, they'd be back in school, suffering through seven days' worth of meetings, and the following week would bring two thousand students back to Preston High School for another year.
"Where are Cheryl and Lucas?" Trey asked.
Grace glanced over her shoulder. "They should be here any minute. Cheryl texted me as we pulled in the parking lot. Lucas had picked her up and, of course, he was running late."
Trey shook his head, grinning. "That idiot will be late to his own funeral."
"True that," Jamie concurred. "How was the basketball conference?"
Trey picked up the pitcher he'd ordered upon arriving and poured a glass of beer for Jamie and Grace. "Same old, same old. Little meetin', lot of eatin' and shitload of drinkin'. My kind of conference."
Slam Dunk is available at Samhain, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Sony, Kobo and All Romance Ebooks.
Eastern Ambitions was the book that changed it all for me this year. Did I tell y'all about the night my editor at Samhain called to tell me this book hit the NYT's list? I went upstairs because my son had friends here and I didn't want them to hear my continual, amazed, "Holy fuck, holy fuck." Once the kids left, I started downstairs to tell my hubby. Got halfway down, collapsed and cried tears of absolute joy. Don't think I'll ever forget 2011 was the year that my dream came true. Beautiful, amazing, incredible feeling. It's been well over a month and I'm still floating. 
Funniest part was calling Jayne Rylon and getting her monotone, emotionless replies to my squeals and squees and sobs. Finally, I hung up on her, looked at my husband, and said "I think I should call 911. That girl is in shock." She called back about an hour later and gave me THE APPROPRIATE excited, thrilled response! But damn…took awhile for it to sink in for her.
Prologue
Sam Compton rocked on his heels as his twin, Sawyer, waved goodbye to their father. Shitty speakers and awful acoustics beneath the tin portico protecting the drop-off lane at the airport garbled shrill flight announcements.
The racket disguised the rasp of Sam clearing the knot from his throat as his brother jammed his hands in his pockets and sighed. Sawyer hitched his duffle higher when it slipped from his slumped shoulders.
Sam winced. If Sawyer's back ached as badly as his, that had to hurt like a bitch. He needed something to take his mind off the pain—both the sting between his shoulder blades and the disturbing ache residing somewhat deeper in his chest.
Sawyer squinted at the vanishing taillights of the ranch's pickup.
"Guess that's that." Sam angled toward the automatic doors leading to the terminal. His twin followed as though he were a reflection in a mirror instead of a separate human being. It was only right that they leave together even if they were heading in opposite directions.
All their lives, they'd been so much the same while ultimately completely different. It figured they'd only discovered how strong their bond could be shortly before sacrificing it for their futures.
Dreams of attending college had sprouted in Sam long before Sawyer had kicked Roger Latner's ass, for teasing them about their ranch family's ignorance, in the third grade. No one had laughed once they grew old enough to realize how much power the Comptons—especially JD—wielded in their Wyoming town, Compton Pass. Most of their friends would have killed to be one of the infamous Compass Brothers, yet every one of the four—starting with Silas—had left home the moment they'd turned eighteen.
Probably had something to do with their frontiersmen genes, which urged them to blaze their own paths and create their own kingdoms instead of ruling a hand-me-down legacy. Pride was never in short supply in their pastures.
Still, the look in his mother's eyes as she'd surrendered her youngest…
"Gotta admit we were lucky JD talked Mom into staying behind or we'd still be standing on that curb out there." Sawyer's usual permagrin chased away some of their gloom.
"No shit. As it was, I thought she might crack a few ribs during that never-ending goodbye at home." Sam would miss sharing this wavelength with Sawyer. He'd never once been lonely in his entire life.
Eastern Ambitions is available at Samhain, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Sony, Kobo and All Romance Ebooks.
When Eastern Ambitions hit the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists, I had a MAJOR item marked off my bucket list. What's one thing on your bucket list?
December 29, 2011
Countdown to 2012 contest! Three…
And the countdown continues! Yesterday's winner was…Lisa Anderson! Remember, comment everyday for a chance to win one of the daily featured books and to have your name thrown in the hat for the grand prize (a $25 GC to Amazon and a signed book from me).
Three…
Southern Comfort – the release of this book freaked me out. As y'all know, Jayne wrote Northern Exposure. It did really, really well, so from March to July I got to fret over being the one to ruin the series. It wasn't a comfortable feeling!
I loved Seth. Loved Jody. And I cried when I wrote the JD scenes. Especially the part where Silas and Seth take him to the doctor and they learn what he has. God. Killed me to write. Luckily…Seth and Jody were fun, easy characters and her BFF Paul cracked me up. Paul comes back in Western Ties because I couldn't stand not to have him show up again. Actually…he's the maid of honor for Jody! LOL
Prologue
Seth Compton let his horse run free across the dry earth, enjoying the cloud of dust stirring around them. He and his brothers raced over the mountain ridge, heading to their favorite camping spot. Summer was just kicking in, but given the heat and lack of rain, it promised to be a brutally dry one.
Though the heat and humidity were unusual for Wyoming, they certainly didn't bother him. He loved hard earth and the loud clomping of his horse's hooves as they beat out a tempo that proclaimed his freedom. He was connected to the land, to the animals, to the fresh mountain air and even the unusually brutal sun. All of it made him feel alive and he whooped, grinning at his brothers.
The ride to the campsite went a long way to easing the ache in his chest that had started at dinner, when his older brother, Silas, broke the news he was moving away. It had shocked Seth, stunned him. Silas was the most like their pop, JD, and he was the one brother Seth never thought would leave the ranch. He figured like every ancestor who'd come before them, Silas would lay down deep, solid roots in Compton Pass. He belonged to this place, to their home, and Seth simply couldn't imagine living here without him.
While Silas was made for Compass Ranch, Seth knew his greener pastures lay elsewhere. He longed to leave, to head south and work in Texas. While attending a livestock show with his pop a few months ago, he'd met Thomas Kirkland. Kirkland lived outside San Antonio and owned one of the biggest working ranches in the state. Seth had spent most of one afternoon picking Thomas's brain about the workings on a real Texas ranch. He must have impressed the man because Thomas had sent him a letter last week, inviting him to come down after graduation to work for him. Seth kept the offer a secret from his pop and brothers. He wasn't sure why, but the time to tell them his plans had never felt right.
The setting sun drew patterns on the ground, and Seth let the images wander through his mind. Some people looked for pictures in the clouds, but Seth found them on the earth. The shadows of the trees as they neared the mountain ridge looked like an army of soldiers, standing at attention, all waiting for his command. His destiny was at hand. He could feel it. One more year of damn high school and then he would be free.
He looked back at Silas once more, worried about the deep lines carved in his brother's face. Something had happened. Seth could sense it deep in his soul, but he knew his brother. Silas would never tell him why he was really leaving. Glancing forward, he watched the backs of the twins as they rode side by side, always together. Unlike most identical twins, there was no mistaking who was Sam and who was Sawyer. The two were as alike as mud and soap. Sawyer possessed a recklessness that didn't seem to reside in the refined Sam.
Southern Comfort is available at Samhain, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Sony, and All Romance Ebooks.
Well, I have a feeling my EC editor is ready to string me up over this darn Cocktales series! I pitched it right after I finished the Wild Irish series because I knew, knew, knew I wanted to do another series. She accepted it AND (much to my surprise and delight) she contracted all four on proposal. That was pretty damn cool of her. I'd started Inflamed, so I finished that first. Then we'd (my editor and I) discussed me rewriting Three Reasons Why at RT, so I did that. Then Heat Wave sparked the Black Jack idea! Finally I managed to write Party Naked. Yay. BUT…then I wanted to write Wild Irish Christmas. AND Travis from White Knight wouldn't shut the hell up.I suspect my editor's starting to worry about me ever getting this series finished! I've sworn to her (and I've started) the second book, Screwdriver. Hoping to put a dent in it over the holidays and have it to her some time in January. Pray for me. LOL.
Chapter One
"Goddamn, motherfucker, son of a bitch on a cheese cracker!" Stephanie Harper looked at the mass destruction around her feet and felt the overwhelming desire to smash every bottle in the damn bar.
"What was that?" Her best friend Jayne's head popped up from where she was bent over, stocking new-release books on the shelf.
"Just me redecorating the bar area with broken glass." Her tone betrayed the fact she was finding no humor in her clumsiness.
"Trip on the mat again?" Jayne's question—laced with a giggle—told Stephanie her friend was finding humor in the situation.
"Yes, Miss Unhelpful. I tripped on the motherfucking mat again."
"Uh oh. Two MFs in under a minute. You really are having a bad day."
Stephanie took a deep breath and tried to take stock of the damage. "You can say that again. I just broke two bottles of vodka, one of Jack and a brand new Beefeater."
Jayne approached the bar, crawling on a stool to peer over at the mess Stephanie had made. "What's Beefeater again?"
"Gin. Jesus, Jayne. You've worked in this bar nearly two years now. You'd think you'd pick up some of this stuff."
Jayne shook her head, plopping her ass down. "I work in the bookstore. You work in the bar. And I don't like alcohol."
Stephanie shook her head in mock disbelief, though Jayne's distaste for the strong stuff was a well-known flaw in her friend's character. "Yeah, well, you don't know what you're missing. Nothing like a splash of Beefeater with Sprite and a twist of lime in the summertime. Very refreshing."
"Lemonade serves the same purpose. I take it the gin was important."
Party Naked is available at Ellora's Cave, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Sony, and All Romance Ebooks.
Southern Comfort is a well known liquor, while Party Naked is the name of a cocktail. What's your favorite drink and what will be in your glass as you ring in the new year?
December 28, 2011
Countdown to 2012 contest! Four…
And the countdown continues! Yesterday's winner was…Sue A. Remember, comment everyday for a chance to win one of the daily featured books and to have your name thrown in the hat for the grand prize (a $25 GC to Amazon and a signed book from me).
Four…
Black Jack is the book that Heat Wave built. As you may or may not know, I hang out at the Heat Wave yahoo group with over 200 fantastic readers and the ladies of International Heat. It's a hopping place and a lot of fun if you'd like to join. One day in Heat Wave, a challenge was thrown out. The gals said write a book about a pirate and a woman who slaps him and damn if it didn't spark something for me. Plus…this book gave me a chance to dabble in the first love–historical romance. It was fun to try my hand at the regency period again. Started there with June Girls, but it had been years since I'd tried to write it. Realized…I really do love it.
Chapter One
"Let go of me!"
"Take it easy, lass. Come peacefully and no one will be hurt."
"No one will be hurt because I'm not going anywhere with you."
Black Jack Carlysle tightened his grip on the young woman's arm. He wasn't accustomed to backtalk from any of his subordinates and he sure as hell wasn't going to listen to it from a mere female.
"I don't think you fully understand your position here. My men and I have taken over your ship. Now we're seizing our reward."
"Stealing is more like it. You haven't earned anything on our ship. You're a thief and a heathen and— Ouch! You're hurting my arm!"
"I may be all you say and more, my dear, but the fact remains, I am the captain of this ship and you are part of the spoils of war."
The haughty woman slapped him. Hard. "We'll see about that."
Jack was shocked momentarily. He heard a sharp gasp behind him and knew his men had witnessed her assault. He'd intended to take her below deck and lock her in the room next to his. He knew who she was. As daughter of the territorial governor, she'd fetch a fair price in ransom.
Her blow and fiery rage ignited his temper and his final destination changed as he pushed her toward the ladder that would take them to his cabin.
"You will pay for that, my lady. In my bedroom."
His threat pulled her up short and her struggling ceasing. "You can't be serious. Do you know who I am?"
He chuckled mirthlessly. "I think the question that should be asked is, do you know who I am?"
Her gaze narrowed, drawing his attention to light blue eyes surrounded by thick, long black lashes. Her cheeks were flushed a lovely pink due to anger and exertion. Her breathing had accelerated, each hastily inhaled breath thrusting her full breasts forward. She'd fill his hands nicely.
Black Jack is available at Ellora's Cave, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, Sony and All Romance Ebooks.
Three Reasons Why holds a bit of a record for me. It was the book that sat on my computer the longest without being published. Why? Because the first incarnation of the story was rejected back in the spring of 2009. I actually submitted this book before Everything Nice (if you need a frame of reference). LOL. Truth be told, it should have been rejected. It sucked. And I always knew I would rewrite it, but (and I think any author will tell you this) it's hard to go back to a story that in your mind has been told and is finished. I basically had to forget the whole story and re-imagine it. It took time to do that. In the first version, Jill was a huge bitch with daddy issues and Wes came across as an unlikeable asshole. SO…they were scrapped and made over. Second time was a charm and I'm so much happier with this version of the story. I cried when I wrote it. Jill's issues broke my heart.
Prologue – Three Reasons Why
Christmas
"Are you all right?" Jill Harper asked when Wes began fidgeting in his chair. No doubt he was uncomfortable due to the injuries he'd sustained in his last DEA mission. Simply thinking of how badly Wes had been hurt sent a cold chill through her. She could have lost him. Then she pushed the thought away. Hell, he wasn't hers to lose.
"Yeah," Wes answered. "Just bored."
They were celebrating the holidays with Jill's sister Kate and Wes' best friend Rick. Unfortunately, the revelry had been curtailed for a little while—two hours' worth of a little while—when Kate and Rick escaped upstairs to open their last gifts in private. Jill was finding it increasingly difficult to ignore the sexual sounds emanating from the upstairs bedroom. She'd like to say she was annoyed, but actually she was uncomfortably hot.
Fuck. She was horny as hell.
Wes' fingers thumped against his cast absentmindedly. "How about you and me go rustle up some breakfast? I'm starving."
Jill jumped out of her chair, grateful for Wes' suggestion. She'd cook. That might help beat down her building arousal, even though, God knew, she should be used to the sizzling physical reaction she suffered whenever she was with Wes.
"Sounds good." She crossed the room and offered Wes a hand to help him up. With his broken leg and ribs, rising was still difficult. He grimaced as she approached and she knew he was tired of being helpless. Wes was an active, strong man. Relying on her help—as well as Kate's and Rick's—was rubbing against the grain. Hopefully, the healing would happen fast and life could go back to normal.
They'd been together way more than usual lately and it was throwing Jill for a loop. She'd always recognized the slight tug of attraction when it came to Wes Robson, but lately it didn't feel like a tug as much as a hurricane-force wind blowing at her back, shoving her none too gently toward the man.
Three Reasons Why is available at Ellora's Cave, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Sony.
Today's books are pretty different as far as genres go. Black Jack is erotic BDSM/historical, while Three Reasons Why is a contemporary and a bit of a tear jerker. What is your favorite genre to read?
December 27, 2011
Countdown to 2012! Five…
And the countdown continues! Yesterday's winner was Katy B. McKee. Remember, comment everyday for a chance to win one of the daily featured books and to have your name thrown in the hat for the grand prize (a $25 GC to Amazon and a signed book from me).
Five…
Northern Exposure is the book that was a major game changer for me. In a lot of ways! It was my first attempt at co-writing a series. Actually–that's not true! LOL. Just remembered. Jambrea Jo Jones and I wrote a book together once (it doesn't exist anywhere online, so don't go looking–hee hee)!
So Northern Exposure was my second attempt at co-writing. The Compass series has made such a huge impact on my career. Thanks to those books I have that beloved extra line on my signature that says New York Times Bestselling Author! Sigh. I love that thing! Writing with Jayne was a wonderful experience. I'm not going to say it was all sunshine and roses and there were more than a few days where I worried about the survival of our friendship, but we persevered and I think we're both stronger for the journey.
Prologue – Northern Exposure.
Dry brush crackled under the hooves of Silas Compton's roan gelding. It hadn't rained in a while. He could tell it would be a long summer by the clouds of terra cotta dust rising in the wake of his brothers' galloping horses as they raced across the mountain ridge.
Not that he'd know it where he was headed. Alaska would provide a total change of scenery. Exactly what he needed. Pain lanced his chest, causing him to tense in his heirloom saddle. Rainey's ears flicked up. Silas patted the loyal animal's neck, settling into the rhythm of their canter, and wondered how he would survive so far from the land that had been a part of him since he'd been born.
Somehow he would have to make it work.
He sure as hell couldn't stay.
Like the three-legged dog they'd had as kids, he would learn to cope without an integral part of himself. If only he and his puppy had reined in their curiosity and avoided those damn traps…
But they hadn't.
Lucy Silver, the veterinarian's sweet daughter—who'd been dancing through his dirty dreams since he'd been old enough to have them—had spotted Silas making out with her boyfriend in the barn. It'd been like the day he'd watched his puppy scramble toward the razor-sharp jaws lying concealed under a pile of straw all over again.
Removing himself from the equation seemed like the only way he could halt imminent disaster and protect the two people he cared about most outside of his family. He'd already destroyed enough of Lucy's innocence.
Christ, he couldn't explain what had driven him to kiss Colby in the first place.
Impulsive. Rash. Reckless.
Qualities Silas didn't value. The one time he gave in to the dark urges he wrestled, he paid a horrible price. But he'd caught Colby checking out his sweaty muscles as they'd worked together in the heat of the day. Desire had arced between them.
Irresistible. Delicious. Forbidden.
Until the agony on Lucy's face had slammed him back to reality. Silas vowed to leave the couple to mend their fences and live in peace, without the threat of his interference ripping them apart. Lucy and Colby devoured each other with desperate gazes when they thought no one paid attention. It didn't take a genius to figure out their love was the real deal.
Northern Exposure is available at Samhain, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Sony, Fictionwise, Kobo and All Romance Ebooks.
Inflamed helped me scratch an itch! LOL. I got a taste of writing m/m with Any Given Sunday and decided I wanted more. In Inflamed, my two cowboys were already a couple when Keri crash-landed in their life. I was aiming for another cowboy quickie (as Inflamed is part of the Spitfire/Rekindled trilogy). As always, the wordy bitch in me took over and my quickie turned into a novella. Jeez. Even so…I won an award at Romanticon for this book. The category? Sexiest use of a pool cue in a book. LOLOLOLOLOL. You should have seen my mother's face when I told her what the trophy was for!
Chapter One – Inflamed
"Dammit." Keri Shields climbed out of her rental car, cursing the billows of steam rising from beneath the hood. The car had started sputtering and she'd managed to pull it to the side of the road before it died completely. If she recalled correctly, she was about five miles from her uncle's ranch.
Using her sleeve, she wiped the perspiration from her forehead. No wonder the car had overheated. ThisTexassun was merciless. Bending into the driver's door, she popped the hood then walked to the front of the car. A huge wave of red-hot heat pushed her a few paces away when she opened the hood, and she cursed again.
Reaching into her pocket, she switched on her iPhone. Yep. Still in a dead zone. She'd noticed a few miles back she'd lost service. Not unusual, considering she was in the middle of nowhere. There were only four ranches spanning three hundred miles, and she'd already passed two of them.
Keri turned and stared at the straight stretch of road ahead of her. It could be hours before another car happened along. She was headed for Mockingbird Ranch, her uncle Brody's place. After escaping four years in a disastrous relationship with the world's biggest jackass, she was ready for a change of scenery and a new lease on life.New Yorkhad officially chewed her up and spit her out. Uncle Brody had been begging her to move back for years and she'd finally wised up and accepted the invitation.
His baby sister, her mother, had gotten pregnant in high school. When Keri's teenage father denied his role in her surprise entrance to the world, Uncle Brody—only twenty at the time—had stepped in and become Keri's father in every real sense of the word. She'd missed her uncle terribly, suffering from genuine homesickness lately. He never failed to make her smile, to cheer her up when she was down. And God knew she could use a healthy dose of his optimism these days.
Inflamed is available at Ellora's Cave, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Sony and All Romance Ebooks.
Today's releases share a cowboy theme, so let's make the comments fun! Who, in your opinion, is/was the hottest cowboy ever?
December 26, 2011
Countdown to 2012 contest! Six…
For the next 6 days, I thought I'd do a year in review sort of party/contest to celebrate an awesome year! 2011 was so fantastic for me…in so many ways–personally and professionally. It's time to party it up.
I had 12 releases in 2011 (blows my mind every time I think of it!), so I'll share personal reflections surrounding the two of the releases and the first page (just the first page) of each book to try to entice you in to buying if you haven't. Every day I will pick one name from the comments pile and that person will win their choice of one of the two books featured. At the end of the six days, I'll draw one name for a grand prize winner who will receive a $25 gift card to Amazon and a signed print book from me (winner's choice of book). Sound like fun?
Also…I recently did a website facelift and lost (sob) all my subscription names. If you sign up to subscribe to my blog, I'll throw your name in the hat an extra time. If you signed up previously (71 of you wonderful people have), your name goes in automatically.
So…let the countdown begin…
Six…
In January 2011, I had two releases, Any Given Sunday and Power Play.
Any Given Sunday was the end of a writing era for me and it was one of the hardest books I've ever written. Took me freaking ages and it wasn't until I beat my head against the wall and begged Rhian for help that I made any progress. She basically saved the story when she wrote back after reading what I had and said, "You have your guys mixed up." It was amazing, insightful, dead on! For some insane reason, I was writing Chad like Sean and Sean like Chad. I am an idiot like that some times. The second I fixed it, the story flowed.
Prologue – Any Given Sunday
"Where's Chad?" Lauren asked breathlessly as they entered Sean's apartment.
Sean rested his forehead against hers for an extra second or two before pulling away from the kiss they'd just shared. However, the distance was too much for him and the image of her in her mini-skirt and silky blouse proved to be his undoing. He pressed her against the door to steal another long, hot kiss. They'd gone out for a romantic dinner to celebrate the end of their first month as a couple.
"Chad's out for the night," he replied. He grasped her hand and lifted it to his lips, placing a kiss on her palm. "Thanks for making sure I made it to the door safely, Ms. Chase," he teased. She'd followed him up to his apartment, jokingly claiming it was the gentlemanly thing to do after driving them home from the restaurant. "Do you need to leave right now or do you want to hang out for a while?" He was unwilling to say goodbye to her after such a great evening.
She smiled and ran her hand down his chest. "I'm not in any hurry."
They'd been friends forever, so there was no awkwardness between them. Years as best friends had bred a comfortable familiarity. It had also built up some pretty deep-seated need in Sean. If he didn't get her into his bed soon, he was likely to do himself an injury. Sporting a hard-on 24/7 couldn't be good for anybody.
Sean stole another kiss and wondered if he'd ever experienced anything so amazing in his life. "Good. You wanna watch TV or make out?"
She laughed. "I wanna have sex."
Her quick response took Sean off-guard for a second, but he was accustomed to her forthright, honest nature. It was refreshing and, in some ways, a relief. He was part of a large family that walked to the beat of a different drummer. Sometimes he worried their quirkiness was hard for outsiders to take. It was cool to just be himself—Collins warts and all—and not have to worry about scaring her away because of his unconventionality.
"Jesus," he muttered and she gave him a husky laugh that was sexy as hell.
He studied her face and saw his own feelings reflected in her eyes—the look was hungry, almost feral. "I want you so much," he confessed, running the back of his hand along her soft cheek. She was the most gorgeous woman he'd ever seen. "I've wanted you forever."
She nodded. "The feeling's mutual."
She grabbed the hem of his T-shirt and pulled it over his head before he could respond. He wasn't surprised to discover this aggressive side. Lauren was a strong-willed, opinionated woman and it stood to reason she'd attempt to take the lead in the bedroom. Leaning forward, she planted several wet kisses on his chest before using her teeth to playfully bite his pec.
Any Given Sunday is available at Ellora's Cave, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Sony, Kobo and All Romance Ebooks.
An author shouldn't have favorites, but I'll confess it. Power Play is one of my all-time favorite books. WHICH…usually is a kiss of death for any of my books. LOL. I loved writing this book. It just fell out of me. Frankie is one of my favorite heroines because she's totally kick ass and doesn't ever bend to a man's will. That was fun because Reed is like this super alpha male. It was fun making that relationship work. AND…Valerie made the cover. It's also one of my all-time favorites (after Western Ties).
Chapter One – Power Play
Reed Donovan stared at the flat-screen TV in the corner of the bar, and though his eyes were seeing the baseball game, his mind wasn't processing a single aspect of it. He leaned back in his chair and tried to shake off the lingering traces of jetlag. Two days earlier, he'd flown back to the States after nine months in London. He only had tonight left to recover from the trip before he returned back to work bright and early the next morning.
He picked up the drink in front of him and took a long, deep swig. His throat was parched and his mouth dry. Clearly the stress of his day job was affecting his mind, messing with his head. He'd gone to London in the early fall to clean up the mess the former manager had left in his company's branch office.
"Have to admit I didn't think you had it in you to be quiet for so long."
Reed looked up and found his cousin, the owner of the bar, looking down at him. He gestured to the chair across from him and watched Carter sit.
Reed lifted his glass. "Trying to drink away some of my damn tiredness. Not looking forward to going back to work tomorrow."
"Nine months is a damn long time to uproot from your home, Reed. And I know you hate playing the admin role, know you've been gritting your teeth every minute of these last few months, wishing you were back doing what you love."
"Uncle Brian needed my help getting the London branch back under control. The last manager only managed to run the damn thing into the ground. It was my job to clean house, to put the pieces back together."
Carter leaned back in the chair, put his hands behind his head and studied his face. "So what's stuck up your ass? You're home now. Figured you'd be happy and celebrating that little fact."
Reed rubbed his eyes wearily. His cousin was right, he should be doing fucking flips around the bar. Instead, he felt tired, irritable. "You want me to make a bulleted list for you?"
Carter grinned. "Is this gonna be a long presentation, Mr. Exec?"
Reed leaned forward, not bothering to acknowledge his cousin's joke. "Number one, I'm pissed as shit about Brian sending me to London. I've worked my ass off for that man for years and I don't appreciate being used as a lackey to do his goddamn dirty work. I'm going into his office tomorrow and letting him know it's not something I ever intend to do again."
Carter winced. "Fuck, man. That's not gonna be a fun conversation."
Power Play is available at Samhain, Amazon, Sony, Barnes and Noble, Fictionwise and ARe.
Simply leave a comment today telling me one gift you received this holiday season. Tomorrow, we'll continue the countdown and I'll announce today's winner. The more you comment, the more chances you have to win!
Quote of the Day
From T at Ebooks Addicts…
The world of reality has limits, but the world of imagination is boundless. ~Unknown
December 24, 2011
Saturday Snippet
This week, it's all about beginnings. SO…I thought I'd share an excerpt from Party Naked, the first book in my new series at Ellora's Cave.
Snippet:
Stephanie rubbed a weary hand over her face. The Romantic Hearts book club meeting was in full-swing as she dropped off the second round of Screwdrivers. She wasn't sure what book they were discussing, but it must have been a hot one. The ladies were animated and laughing loudly over a certain racy passage.
It was only seven o'clock, but she felt like she'd been on her feet for years rather than a few hours. She was still stewing over the parking ticket in her pocket. She'd never met a more arrogant, condescending police officer in her life. She had half a mind to storm over to the police department and file a complaint against Detective Nolan.
The only thing holding her back was that ultimately she had been wrong. She should have known better than to do something so stupid. Her day had been one long string of bad luck. It only stood to reason that the first time she'd ever double-parked in her life, she'd block in a freaking cop. Murphy's Law was having a lot of fun at her expense.
She hadn't told the other girls about the ticket upon returning to the bar because she was equal parts irritated and embarrassed. She'd just carefully stepped over the mat, put the liquor bottles on the counter and gotten to work.
Surprisingly Thursdays were pretty good days for them, business-wise. In addition to the book club meeting, there were quite a few regulars who came to have a drink or two and unwind with a newspaper or the newest novels.
Speaking of regulars, Stephanie took a detour to a chair in the corner. "You need me to freshen up your drink, Elias?"
Elias Clark was Books and Brew's most loyal patron. He came in two nights a week—Thursdays and Saturdays—and he always followed the same routine. He'd claim his chair in the quietest corner of the shop, drink two scotch and sodas—never more than two—and read the newspaper. Then he'd find Jayne and she'd talk him into buying a new book.
"Thank you, Stephanie. I believe I am ready for my second glass."
She picked up his empty tumbler and started to walk back to the bar, but Elias stopped her with a question. "You okay tonight? You seem tired. That's not like you. You're usually the life of this place."
She smiled at his compliment and shrugged easily. "I've had a long day."
A very long one, she thought.
"Perhaps you could take off early?" Elias suggested. "Go home and rest. I bet the other ladies wouldn't mind covering for you."
Stephanie glanced around the shop. Jayne was leading the book discussion, while Sophie and Jordan were helping various customers, either by finding books or serving drinks.
She shook her head. "Only a few more hours until closing time. I'll be fine 'til then."
Elias gave her a friendly smile and she felt grateful for his concern.
She was halfway to the bar when she spotted a familiar face walking through the front door. She stopped in her tracks. Detective Nolan sauntered in like he owned the place and the temper she'd managed to subdue all afternoon flared hot once again.
He glanced around the bar quickly, looking over at the boisterous book group as he took a seat at the end of the bar. His gaze missed her completely.
Suddenly she felt as if the clouds on her lousy day had lifted and she'd been granted a bit of good fortune. She'd had hours to fume about the detective's behavior and, as always happened, she'd thought of a million clever, cutting things she could have said to him after she'd driven away. She'd been pissed off about missing her opportunity.
A smile crossed her face. Time for round two.
She walked toward him.
As if sensing sudden danger, the detective turned, his gaze catching hers as she approached. She enjoyed the myriad emotions that covered his face in the few short steps it took her to reach him—surprise, annoyance, anger and, finally, was that regret? The last pulled her up short for a moment, then she drew near.
"Well, well, well, if it isn't De—"
The detective grabbed her shoulders, pulled her toward him and cut off her words with a kiss that left her stunned motionless for a full thirty seconds.
What the hell?
Party Naked is available at Ellora's Cave, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Sony, Kobo and All Romance Ebooks.
More snippets? Check it out!
