Starla Kaye's Blog, page 19

J J DiBenedetto and Dream Sequence

Today I am welcoming James DiBenedetto to my blog, talking about his Dream Series books, which includes the  DREAM SEQUENCE boxed set.

It’s been an amazing experience, following the lives of my characters over a period of almost twenty years (for them!) in my Dream Series books. I always have trouble pinning down the genre of these books in one word, because they have elements of several genres – mystery, romance, the paranormal. But primarily, they’re the story of Sara’s life as it unfolds, as she goes from a shy college student to a practicing doctor, wife and mother, all while trying to cope with a unique talent – she can step into other people’s dreams (which leads her into adventures catching a couple of killers, a corrupt Congressman, a would-be arsonist, and her own personal nemesis along the way!).

The books really break out into three phases. The first three books cover Sara’s education – in college, medical school and finally her residency. The next three follow her into medical practice, moving into her first house, and the first steps of her children into the horrors of teenagerhood. The next two books (plus book #9, currently in progress) take Sara to a new job and a new town, where she settles in as an important member of a small community.

The thing that ties all the books together is humor, heart and an eye on the challenges of everyday life.

And as an introduction to Sara’s life, I’ve put together the first three books into a box set, which is on sale this week for just $0.99. It’s called DREAM SEQUENCE.

Sara Barnes thought her life was perfectly ordinary – until the night she began stepping into other people’s dreams.

Follow Sara as she learns to cope with this extraordinary gift (or curse) in the first three books of the Dream Series:

DREAM STUDENT It’s bad enough that, thanks to her supernatural talent, Sara is learning more than she ever needed to know about her friends and classmates, watching their most secret fantasies whether she wants to or not. Much worse are the other dreams, the ones she sees nearly every night, featuring a strange, terrifying man who commits unspeakable crimes. Now Sara wonders if she’s the only witness to a serial killer – and the only one who knows when and where he’s going to strike next.

DREAM DOCTOR Medical school and life as a newlywed would be enough by themselves for anybody to handle. But Sara’s got another problem – her dreams have started up again. Almost everyone at the medical school is dreaming about the death of the school’s least popular teacher, Dr. Morris, and once again, Sara finds herself in the role of unwilling witness to a murder before it happens. But this time, there are too many suspects to count, and it doesn’t help matters that she hates Dr. Morris every bit as much as any of his would-be murderers do.

DREAM CHILD Sara thought she had made peace with her dreaming talent, but she’s got a surprise coming: her four-year-old daughter has inherited it, too.

BUY LINKS – Dream Sequence

Amazon

Audiobook

Audiobook samples on his website

 

AUTHOR LINKS:   Website     Twitter     Facebook

 

The post J J DiBenedetto and Dream Sequence appeared first on Starla Kaye.

Charisma Knight and Denying Bjorn

I am happy to have Charisma Knight here today with her new release DENYING BJORN, Book 2 Pryeer Series.

 

BLURB – Denying Bjorn

Lydia Riley has managed to sever ties with her old lover and relocate to Diamond City to start a new life. Months later strong feelings for her boss, Bjorn Jensen develop and they become close. However, she’s not ready to trust him with her secret and continues to deny him the truth. Between past and current threats, she realizes the odds are stacking up against her and the skeletons in her closet could cost she and Bjorn the happiness they’ve been waiting all their lives for.

Bjorn has fulfilled his destiny by over-seeing the wellbeing of his Dragon Lord. For centuries, he’s led a lonely existence as a Protector, but now he’s forced to take a long hard look at his life. The brown-eyed beauty from Moonbay City has captured his heart and soul, but there’s just a few things standing in their way of having a normal relationship. His immortality and a little curse from a shaman he encountered centuries ago.

Eventually Bjorn discovers Lydia’s past and helps her overcome an old rival. During the process, he makes a major sacrifice that could condemn him to darkness beyond the Realm of Pyreer.

BUY LINKS:   Amazon     All Romance eBooks

 

EXCERPT – Denying Bjorn

Chapter One

Moonbay City

Lydia Riley winced as the large Dhampir, Lars pulled her close to him as they passed a vampire while strolling down the stone steps of the opera house. She abhorred his possessive ways, and these days, his jealousy had escalated.

Warm breeze blew through her curly updo as they stood on the sidewalk, waiting for the limousine. Out of the corner of her eye she could see him staring at her.

Lars cleared his throat. “Did you enjoy the opera?”

She nodded as the limousine pulled up and the chauffeur slipped out and quickly opened the door for them. “I did,” she said in a low, unenthusiastic voice. She scuttled to the opposite side, but the Dhampir failed to keep his distance.

“You’ve been very moody lately.” Lars replied.

She gazed out the window as the limousine pulled off onto Moonbay Avenue. “Guess I’m not feeling well.”

“Tell me the truth,” He spat. “I’m tired of your lies. Isn’t there something you’d like to address?”

She turned and gazed into his eyes. “I’m sick of your jealous, possessive ways, Lars.”

“What do you mean?”

“When we were walking down the steps and passed that vampire, you pulled me close, like I was going to try and fuck him or something. You do that a lot lately.”

“His fangs were descended,” Lars said in a low, uncaring tone. “I heard his thoughts and it pissed me the fuck off.”

“Why should it even matter? I was with you. I’m not going to be with someone else when we’re together.” She massaged her temples and closed her eyes. “I can’t do this anymore,” she admitted. “I’m not a possession.”

He growled. “Aren’t you?”

Lydia gasped and set back in the plush seat. Things had to change. She’d been contemplating leaving the Dhampir for quite some time now, and he had to have known how she felt. It was no secret he could read her mind, but she was sure he was waiting for her to admit it first. That’s the kind of person he was.

“I’m not arguing with you Lars. I have a headache and you’re not helping it.” She heard him chuckle as she rubbed her temples. “I know you’ve tried controlling my mind, but I’m getting to the point where I’m strong enough to pull out of it.

He laughed. “I guess that means I’ll have to probe deeper inside your mine, my love.”

“You make me sick.” She grit her teeth looked out the window wishing she were anywhere else but with the Dhampir.

When they pulled up to the mansion, she didn’t even wait for the chauffeur to open the door. As she walked up the brick steps, she heard the Dhampir’s heavy footsteps behind her and felt his heated gaze. Her flesh pebbled and her pulse raced. She was certain the bastard was contemplating a long night of sex. But then, there was dinner. Lars enjoyed late dinners after long days of running his business. And of course, he required her companionship. He called the shots, but for months she allowed him to dictate her. Now she was simply tired of the life.

“Good evening Mr. Lars.” One of Lars’s servants greeted and ushered them to the dining hall.

“Good evening Jack.”

The table was set with a bottle of red wine, blood red candles and an exquisite smorgasbord of her favorite foods. As they settled down at the table, her stomach twisted in knots. Food was not what she desired at the moment. She wanted to be alone. Lars gazed at her as the servants dished out the food on their plates.

“Talk to me Lydia.” The large Dhampir sat back in his chair and narrowed his eyes.

She shrugged. “What do you want me to say?”

“Did you not enjoy our time together tonight?”

“Lars, it’s just—“

“You’ve been different for several weeks now. Don’t take me for a fool and tell me what’s on your mind.”

Lydia glanced across the room at the black lacquer piano, then to the servants standing nearby. Lars had been a client she’d hoped would turn into a love interest, but that was almost a year ago. Now things just weren’t working out that way. She’d always had a hard time expressing herself.

“I’m just not happy, Lars.” Who the hell was she kidding? She’d never been truly happy a day in her life, she’d been merely existing, a walking corpse just like Lars.

“Not happy?” Soulless eyes flashed in anger as the Dhampir leered at her from across the table. His squared jaw set tight, his sensuous lips curved into a frown. Nostrils flaring, he cleared his throat.

Lydia could see the vein throbbing between his eyebrows and he never took his eyes off her. She sipped her wine before speaking. She refused to allow him to scare her, which was exactly what the beast was trying to do.

“The jealousy, possessiveness. Whenever another man looks at me, you pull me close and growl, demonstrating to the world that I belong to you. I don’t like that.” she looked him in the eye and stood her ground.

“You do belong to me.” He reminded her firmly.

“Lars, I can’t go on like this.” She admitted.

“I see.” Lars sighed in agitation. “Lydia, we’ve been seeing each other how long now?”

“Almost a year now.” She shifted slightly beneath his gaze before setting the wine glass down on the red velvet tablecloth.

“You’re willing to walk away from me and all of this…finery?”

She quickly glanced around the mansion with all its authentic antique furnishings. Although she still lived in a luxurious condominium with her cousin, Dawn, she spent much of her time in the Dhampir’s home. The white marble floors with flecks of gold glinted in the candlelight and at the door next to two huge pillars stood two very competent servants who’d served them a meal fit for a king.

“You’ve treated me very well, but it’s time for me–us to move on.” Lydia reached across the table and gently laid her hand over his large pale one. A part of her did care something for him, but that wasn’t enough to make her want to stay. At this point in her life she only wanted to be alone.

He’d given her everything her heart could desire except love. She knew she was nothing more than arm candy and a warm body to sate his carnal desires and bloodlust with, nothing more. Sooner or later he’d move on, she was certain.

“I’ve told you about the undercover police posing as Dawn’s clients, Lars. We all have too much to lose, and I wouldn’t want something happening to you just because of what I used to do.”

Quickly he removed his hand from beneath hers. “Lydia, when we met, you were nothing but a whore.”

Anger rose inside her and she stood abruptly. “I don’t have to listen to this shit!” Before she could step away from the table, Lars was next to her, grasping her arm.

“You’ll listen to everything I have to say.” He bared his teeth and put his face close to hers.

She yanked her arm away, but trembled when he slowly walked around her, lightly touching her body with the tips of his fingers. What would he do to her now? She was no match for his strength. His eyes gleamed, and she realized he was getting off on her fear. Lars always liked to be in control.

“I’m not afraid of you,” she lied.

He grinned and reached out to touch a breast. Her nipple pebbled beneath his fingers and she gasped. “No, but you want me.”

“No, I don’t.” That was another lie. But she knew if they had sex, she’d feel empty on the inside. It always ended that way.

“Oh, you’re such a liar. Your breathing has changed and I can smell your arousal. If I asked you to get down on your knees right now, you’d do it.”

“Don’t be too sure of yourself.”

He was almost correct, but only if she gave in. His touch ignited something lust inside her, but it was nothing but lust. Sometimes she could barely stand him and hated his sexual control over her. These days she’d grown tired of his arrogance and didn’t understand how she could have lived with that treatment all this time. And as far as her getting to her knees, she had her dignity. This arrangement was truly was over with.

“You were nothing but a whore, fucking every unremarkable man willing to pay you five hundred for the hour,” he whispered in her ear. “How much did I give you the first time we met?”

Lydia’s anger escalated. Lars often put himself above other men. Her heart pounded as she fought to swallow the knot in her throat and her gut churned at that distant memory. When she didn’t answer, he cruelly pulled her hair and jerked her head back. She grasped the large fist and dug her nails in, but he simply laughed.

“Is that supposed to hurt?” His voice boomed around her. “Baby, you know I like pain. Please, dig harder.” She felt his cock stiffen against the small of her back.

“I hate you! Dammit Lars! I had money before we met, even had my own personal assistance business. I didn’t want for a damn thing!”

“Why did you jump at my proposal?”

“You know the answer to that,” she gasped.

Lars chuckled. “You grew tired of the business, as I knew you would. Now answer me! How much did I pay the first time we met?” His grip tightened and she swore she’d be bald by the time he was finished.

“Five thousand!” she cried out in agony. “Lars, you’re hurting me!” She dug her nails in deeper, trying to draw blood.

He shook her. “How long?”

“Five thousand for an hour! Dammit Lars, you’re fucking hurting me! Let me go.” She tried pulling away, but he held her fast. “You’re not the first client who paid me that much!”

“No, but I was the last and that’s right, I paid you very well. The first time I laid eyes on you when I looked at the website, I knew I had to have you. And I did. I bought you, Lydia. Don’t you ever forget it! I’ve given you luxuries you wouldn’t otherwise have,” He snapped.

“Lars, before I met you I knew what it was like to dine at expensive restaurants and take trips. I’ve always been wise with my money. Don’t make it sound like you’re my savior, because you’re not. I was doing just fine before I met you.”

He loosened his grip on her hair and stood in front of her as a blank look crossed his face. “And you want to leave me after I’ve treated you so well? I don’t understand why you want to throw what we have away.”

She rubbed the crown of her head. Why couldn’t the asshole see, she truly didn’t need or want him. She had, in fact enjoy him treating her like a queen. She had, in fact grown tired of the business and hoped something more would ignite between them. But it never came to pass. Although she knew the type of man he was, something inside her made her cling to him, but recently she’d come to the conclusion this was all a mistake.

“Lars, you paid me for exclusivity. You knew this was simply business, nothing more nothing less. And just for the record, I didn’t ask you to do any of those things. Seriously though, I have no problem returning everything you’ve ever given me.”

Lars shook his head. “Now why would I want to do that? Everything I’ve given you is yours to keep.” He reached for her, but she pulled away. “Lydia, don’t be like that.”

“This has to end, Lars. I’ve been feeling like this for quite some time. Something in me has changed. Everything between us is simply materialistic. You’ve treated me like a queen, but you can’t give me what I truly need.”

“And what’s that?”

“I want love, and trust. This isn’t a relationship, but an arrangement. Sometimes I find I’d rather be alone. Why can’t you understand that? Surely, you’ll replace me.”

“Ah, such exquisite beauty cannot be easily replaced.”

Lydia rolled her eyes at that little comment. “Lars couldn’t help but eyeball other women whenever they went out. Hell, she wouldn’t be surprised if he had some other honey set up on the other side of town. Whenever she looked at another man, he’d always made her pay for it—in bed.

“Don’t think like that woman. Of course I look, I’m a man and I haven’t been with anyone else since we’ve been together.”

“Dammit, Lars! I told you to stay out of my head.”

“Truthfully, I saw this all coming,” he admitted. “You thought you did a pretty good job keeping it from me, but when you’re sleeping, I could easily read your mind.”

She gasped. “Then why so pissed at me?”

“Because despite what you think, Lydia. Dhampirs are quite capable of love—only it’s a different love than what humans are used to. I do wish you’d reconsider.”

“I’ve made up my mind,” she said quickly. “I can’t do this anymore.”

“Your cousin Dawn continued with the escorting even though she knew the area was hot. She knew you both were possibly being watched. I told you, sweetheart, in this line of work, it’s only a matter of time before it catches up with you.”

Lydia frowned. “Yeah, I know. Look, it’s getting late and I’d like to go home now.”

“Stay the night, maybe you’ll change your mind in the morning.”

He was convincing, but it was now or never. She had to make this change. “No, I want to be alone tonight.”

“Very well. I’ll let this go—for now. Perhaps you’ll change your mind.” He reached for her but she pulled away.

“Don’t!” Lydia picked up her black satin clutch. “I’ll send for my things.”

“Lydia, I’m a very determined man. Do you honestly think I’ll not pursue you anymore? I was determined to have you and I got you. You didn’t even have the common courtesy to tell me from the beginning. I had to go and probe your mind to find out things about you. Do you really think I’ll let you walk away so easily?”

She shrugged as she walked to the entrance of the elaborate dining hall. “What are you going to do, lock me away somewhere?”

“Don’t tempt me, little one. I’m sure finding pussy as good as yours will be quite the challenge.”

She shook her head at his arrogance and continued walking. “You’re impossible Lars!”

Before she could exit, he stepped in front of her, forcing her to look at him. “Just a question for you, babe. Why did you wait so long to call it off? I know you’ve become a master at guarding your thoughts, but you left yourself wide open while asleep.”

“I honestly didn’t know how to tell you and I’m sorry for that. Please be understanding. That’s all I want, do you think you can at least try to respect my wishes?”

“Very well. I’ll give you some time, but I’m not giving up on you completely.”

Her heart lurched. That’s what she as afraid of. She looked away, but he quickly slipped a finger beneath her chin, forcing her gaze to his. “Lars.”

The Dhampir bent down and captured her lips with a kiss that promised hours upon hours of exhilarating pleasure. Her body betrayed her and she knew it was his way of hopefully luring her back. Coming to her senses, she gently pushed him away.

“Stop with the mind controlling. I’ve made my decision.”

He smiled. “You can’t blame a man for trying.”

“Goodbye Lars.”

She felt like a heavy weight had been lifted from her shoulders and somehow she was free. But she knew it was temporary. Sooner or later Lars would pop back up in her life. The decision to relocate was definitely the right thing to do and she was looking forward to it.

“Goodbye—Lydia.”

* * *

Lars watched as Lydia strolled from view, the long red dress accentuating every curve. His cock jerked against his pants. He should have taken her at least one more time. How dare she cast him aside as though he were some busted old toy?

“Will there be anything else tonight, sir?” The servants eyed him curiously.

“Just clean up and we’re good,” he told them. Suddenly, the doorbell rang. Perhaps Lydia had changed her mind. A loud buzz sounded off and he walked to the speaker and pressed the button. “Who is it?”

“Ms. Joan here to see you,” Jeeves, his butler informed over the intercom.

“Send her in.” He’d hope Joan would have held off on meeting, but apparently the viper had been casing his home, waiting for Lydia to leave.

“Well, got any good news?” Joan strolled in wearing a black suite with white pinstripes. For a woman in her sixties, she looked damn good, he thought to himself. But she was off limits. He walked over to the bar and poured them both a Scotch.

“I see my niece has finally left. Oh. Now Lars, you know I don’t do Scotch. Got any Hennessey?”

He rolled his eyes at the incessant woman. “Not at the moment. What about a Gin?”

“I guess,” Joan said in a huff. “Anyway, nice work. I know how you feel about Lydia. Thank you for helping me to chase them away. I never suspected they’d move out of the city. Hell, as it is, the brothel isn’t bringing in money like it used to.”

“Perhaps hiring women with a little more couth would help out,” Lars said sarcastically as he turned to gaze at her. “And you owe me big. I wasn’t counting on them relocating. She’s left me and it’s all your fault.”

“Yes, I do owe you. If you hadn’t put the heat on the girls like that by sending in some of your crooked cop friends, Dawn’s escorting business would still be going strong. And I’m sure you’ll have no problem with pursuing Lydia. The girl just needs a break.”

“Well, you have your daughter, Dawn to thank for continuing with the escorting. Lydia was quite content with not selling her ass, I made sure of that.”

“Aww, but tonight you’ve finally found out where you stand with my niece, hunny. I’m so sorry for that loss.”

“Sure you are.” He snapped.

“Perhaps I can spend the night—maybe help you forget all about the child. Hell, after all; she’s just a child.” Joan walked over and grabbed his cock.

“Don’t do that.” He pushed her hand away. It wasn’t that he didn’t enjoy the manipulation of his manhood. It was just in poor taste to bed Lydia’s aunt. He did, after all have his standards. If the need would arise, he’d seek someone else out. Hopefully, he’d get the beautiful goddess out of his head by the end of the week, but he doubted that seriously.

Joan smiled, showing her perfect white teeth. “What’s the matter, having performance issues tonight?”

Lars snarled. “Don’t taunt me Joan or I just may turn my friends on you. I’ve already done enough damage where Lydia’s concerned. She’ll never forgive me if she finds out.”

“Oh stop being such a martyr. Lydia doesn’t want you anymore, accept it and move on. It’s not like you loved her.”

Lars sighed and turned his back on the annoying woman. “Joan, like me, you’ll never know what love is. Now—get the hell out.”

“No, not yet. There’s just one more thing.” Joan sauntered around, looking at the exquisite paintings on the wall.

“Now what!” He turned to look at her. She was really starting to piss him off.

“Fleur de Lis, Dawn’s catering business must be destroyed.” She grinned as she stared the Dhampir in the eye.

“Have you lost your mind? Why destroy your daughter’s business?”

“Well, that’s between me and my daughter. Now, here’s what I’d like for you to do–”

“No, you crazy woman. I’ve done my part and have no reason to hurt Dawn’s business. What gives with you?”

“So, we’re not partners?” Joan grinned.

“Joan, get the hell out or I’ll put you out myself.” His fangs descended when he became angrier. If Joan wasn’t Lydia’s aunt, he’d kill her right now.

“So now you’re turning on me? Oh, I do think you should watch your back, Dhampir.” She set the crystal glass on the counter and glared at him.

Lars struggled not to rip her head off. “Joan, you’re pushing me. Leave now before I do something we’ll both regret.”

“You’d never get away with murdering me,” she said with a laugh.

“Oh, you’d be surprised with what I can get away with. Don’t think me a fool, woman. You’re human. I don’t have to kill you right away. I’d gladly make you suffer until I grow tired of torturing you. Now, get the fuck out!”

“Very well.” She turned on her heel and exited the hall.

He continued staring at the spot where she had stood until he heard her leave his home. Manipulating Lydia the way he had almost made him ashamed. Of course, he did it all for her, or that’s what he told himself. Joan had come to him for help in eradicating Dawn’s escorting business. And it worked. At first, he thought it a blessing in disguise, but obviously Joan had other plans.

He sighed when he thought of Lydia. He never wanted to hurt her. Unfortunately he’d been fully aware of her change of feelings for him. Perhaps he wanted to get back at her, make her look over her shoulder and become a trembling mass of nerves. Maybe someday she’d return, but he didn’t believe that for a second.

But disappointment filled him. Lydia was a survivor and deep down he knew she’d never return. But she was his. He had found comfort in the doe-eyed beauty. In anger, he tightened his hand around the goblet until it shattered. “Fuck!”

He needed to keep a close eye on her, just to make sure she wouldn’t forget him. When she tired of her new life, he’d be there waiting for her.

 

CLAIMING JULIA is Book One of the Pyreer Series and can be found on the usual publishing platforms. Both books can be read as standalones.

BUY LINKS – Claiming Julia:     Amazon     All Romance eBooks     Barnes & Noble

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Charisma Knight is a multi-published author and cover artist living in Maryland with her daughter and husband. Charisma enjoys writing interracial erotic romance and erotica ranging from contemporary, science fiction & fantasy, and paranormal. Charisma’s current works in progress are Book Four of the Raven’s Falls Series, several futuristic pieces, and a sequel to Flawed, Moira and Dash’s story.

When Charisma isn’t writing, she can be found sharpening her web design skills, creating book covers, and spending time with her family.

 

CHARISM’A LINKS

Website     Twitter     Facebook     Pinterest     Amazon Author Page     Barnes & Noble     All Romance eBooks     iTunes     Bookstrand

 

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Landra Graf and With This Kilt I Thee Bed

Today I am welcoming Landra Graf with her novella, WITH THIS KILT I THEE BED: Tales of the Brothers Gordon.

Highlander erotic anthology

 

 

 

 

BLURB – With This Kilt I Thee Bed

They’re not your traditional highlanders.

Rafe Gordon, Laird of Nairn, is searching for release from the nightmare of his wife’s passing. When Elsie, his daughter’s new governess, brings with her the temptation of passion and a less-than-perfect-past, Rafe must decide if love truly can conquer all.

Innes Gordon is looking for a good time. When that good time turns out to be the childhood-friend-turned-kept-woman Catriona, he finds himself torn between claiming her ‘til death do us part’ or simply sharing her with his twin.

Hamish Gordon is seeking a woman all his own. While his family’s home is invaded with nuptial ceremonies, Hamish is sent to patrol his older brother’s hunting grounds in search of a thief. Discovering his prey yields the biggest surprise — and Athdara needs his help as much as he needs hers.

BUY LINKS:  Amazon     Amazon-UK     Barnes & Noble     Smashwords     Goodreads     Google Play     All Romance eBooks

 

EXCERPT – With This Kilt I Thee Bed

Curse that bloody Innes to hell and back. The last time she’d seen him, he’d kissed her, laughed at her, and sent her on a cursing tirade of his loveless ways. They’d been only a few years past the age of fifteen, and if she’d known that in six years her ideas of the future—married, with children and a croft—were pointless, maybe she wouldn’t have yelled at him so loud.

Now, he stood, arrogant as ever, calling to account her fairly new profession. She needed the coin desperately to support her family. With two siblings to feed, creditors demanding accounts be brought current, and her father’s passing not more than two months prior, there’d been no other choice. Her maiden virtue went the way of a Scottish crown, but to willingly give herself up to Innes and Hamish’s rampant and wild demands?

“What are you suggesting?” No harm in finding out.

Innes’s smile widened, reminding her of all the dares he used to issue when they were younger. “Well first—“

“You don’t have to agree to this, Catriona,” Hamish said pushing Innes to the side. He’d always been the voice of reason trying to get her to back down. When she wouldn’t, he’d be right beside her.

She shook her head. “At least let him try to convince me to participate in some sexual romp like the rumors speak of.”

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Landra Graf consumes at least one book a day, and has always been a sucker for stories where true love conquers all. She believes in the power of the written word, and the joy such words can bring. In between spending time with her family and having book adventures, she writes romance with the goal of giving everyone, fictional or not, their own happily ever after.

AUTHOR LINKS:    Website     Twitter     Facebook     Google+     Goodreads

 

The post Landra Graf and With This Kilt I Thee Bed appeared first on Starla Kaye.

Spotlight: Brita Addams and Tarnished Gold

My special guest today is Brita Addams with her book TARNISHED GOLD. This book was the first in her gay romance Tarnished series for Dreamspinner Press. She is sharing the first chapter with us today.

First, a few comments on TARNISHED GOLD from Brita.

Tarnished Gold came from my love of old Hollywood. I’ve always loved old movies, with the affected speech and glamour we don’t see today.

My character, Jack Abadie, loves the movies too. Though Hollywood was in its infancy when he saw his first film, one was all he needed. He was hooked.

In love with a childhood friend, Jack wants to spread his wings and take his love with him. Hollywood calls.

Through disappointment and hard knocks, Jack takes Hollywood by storm. Being gay was fine, until it wasn’t, and Jack gets caught up in the almost overnight change in the tide and is given an ultimatum that changes his life.

Join Jack on his bumpy ride. Along the way he meets the true love of his life, Wyatt Maitland, and together they weather tarnished gold.

This book won a Rainbow Award in 2013 for Best Historical and was nominated by the Goodreads M/M Romance group for Best Historical and Best Book of 2013.

BUY LINKS: Dreamspinner Press     Amazon

TARNISHED GOLD

Chapter 1

Jefferson Parish, Louisiana

April 15, 1917

Jack Abadie stared into the old, beat-up mirror as he shaved, noting the beads of perspiration as they dripped into the lathered shaving soap. Though he’d already bathed, he’d worked up a sweat just scraping the razor across his face. Summer already. Seemed Mother Nature had completely forgotten about spring.

Jack smiled though, because soon Louisiana weather would be a distant memory.

He noted the dark circles under his eyes. No wonder. He hadn’t slept for days. Pleasant thoughts of Emery lying next to him, their bodies entwined, had filled the only hours he’d had to himself.

Willswood Plantation didn’t run itself. “You have to help around here more,” his father kept telling him.

Between the long hours he worked doing every conceivable job on the place, then having to tend to family obligations, there wasn’t a moment he could steal for himself, save for late at night.

Jack would have left sooner, but with his father’s mysterious cough getting worse and his stubborn ass resisting every effort to force him to the doctor, Jack’s mother depended upon her two sons to pick up the slack. He’d either break away now, or be stuck for the rest of his life.

“Hey, brother. Happy birthday, old man.”

Jack stared into the mirror at Andrew’s smiling face. He’d miss the boy; they were best friends, but he had to have a life that was his own. “Yeah, thanks. Thought you were out in the fields.”

“I was, but I came in with Papa. He caught a spell out there, couldn’t catch his breath. Figured I’d come to see you, but it looks like you have plans. Big birthday date with Bessie?”

Jack’s stomach knotted. “Yeah. Emery and I are meeting the girls in town.”

Andrew’s eyes darkened, the unmistakable conspiratorial look on his face. “Sure, Jack. I’ll tell Mama and Papa you’re meeting Bessie.”

Though they’d never talked about such personal things, Jack had long suspected Andrew knew about him and Emery. How, he couldn’t say; it was just a feeling. “Thanks,” he said quietly.

“Yeah, well, I’ll leave you to your getting ready. See ya. Have fun.”

“Thanks again. I appreciate it.”

Andrew waved and bounded out the door. Jack watched after him. Sadness welled inside him. He’d miss his brother, hell, he’d miss them all, but a man was entitled to his dreams, and they didn’t come knocking. He had to go after them.

Actually stepping outside the house for the last time would be the hardest part, his mother innocently thinking he’d be back for dinner. Once gone, he’d focus on himself and Emery. Damn it, they deserved a life together, and they certainly couldn’t live on good old Willswood. They’d scrimped and saved for two years, while they’d planned their new life, and it was about to happen. The train would take them to sunny California. Emery would work while Jack took acting lessons, and one day, he’d be a star.

Since the day he’d seen Wallace Reid in The House of Silence at the Prytania, all he could think of was going to Hollywood and becoming a star. Maybe one day he’d even meet his idol.

Jack checked his pocket watch, a birthday gift from his father. The train would leave at six thirty, and with the three-hour leeway they’d allowed, they’d get to New Orleans Depot with little time to spare.

Andrew, his unwitting accomplice, would make it easier to get past his parents and out of the house, before they forced him to damn himself to eternal hell with more lies.

Jack could barely button his Sunday shirt for his trembling fingers. He donned his waistcoat and trousers, already feeling hotter than he had just out of his bath. Before he slipped into his church coat, he applied pomade to his unruly hair, then raked a comb through. He’d always admired the shine of Wallace Reid’s hair and did his best to emulate it every Sunday for church.

He ticked off another box on his mental checklist. Dressed and ready to go. He’d already hidden his meagerly supplied valise behind the barn.

He cast a gaze around the dusty, cramped attic room he and his brother had always shared. His unmade bed made him wonder how easily he’d take to another one. On impulse, he fluffed up his pillow and put it back in place. Bad enough his mother would find his farewell note propped up against it, no need for her to see the impression of his head to make her even sadder.

He so wished he could have the life he wanted without hurting those he loved, but sadly, he saw no other way. Years of working in the cane fields was no life for a guy with his ambitions.

“Emery’s here,” Andrew shouted up the stairs.

His heart leapt. Just a few more moments, and he’d be in the clear. “Coming.”

He patted his waistcoat pockets. Pocket watch in one and his life savings in the other. He walked out the door without a second thought, and down the stairs.

His sickly father, Wilfred, sat in his favorite chair, reading the newspaper as he did most every day. He’d likely head back to the cane fields after the heat of the day dissipated somewhat.

His father glanced up over his glasses when Jack entered the room. “Where you headed?”

Jack decided he wouldn’t miss his father’s gruffness. “The picture show.”

Wilfred shook his head. “You spend entirely too much time with your head in the clouds, boy.”

Predictable response and nothing he hadn’t heard a million times before. “Yes, sir.”

“You are mighty dressed up for the picture show,” his mother said from across the room. “Andrew said you’re meeting Bessie.”

“Yes, Mama,” he said, his fingers firmly crossed behind his back.

“I’m so happy to hear that. She’s a nice Catholic girl. You know we’d like to see you married soon. You’re twenty, time you settled down.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Jack said, his eyes trained on the door, Emery, and freedom.

“We need more help in the fields. I ain’t gonna live forever.”

“Yes, Papa. I’ve got to go.”

His mother shouted after him as he leaped off the porch. “Dinner at six. Invite Bessie for some birthday cake.”

He waved, but didn’t answer. One less lie to cross his lips.

Emery pulled the wagon around to the barn. Jack chased after him and tossed his valise onto the boards behind Emery, who clucked his tongue as he prompted the horses into a trot. Jack ran alongside, then hopped up. “Very funny,” he said as he swiped Emery’s shoulder with his hand.

The horses trotted down the dirt road at a good clip while Jack looked around him, saying a silent goodbye to the rows of shacky houses and the bright pink azalea bushes. Several minutes passed with not a word from Emery. “Why you so quiet? Did you have trouble getting away?”

Emery shifted on the seat. “No, just don’t quite know what to say.”

“Then tell me again about how wonderful it’ll be when we get to Los Angeles,” Jack said as he leaned in close.

Emery turned his head and drew a deep breath. “It’ll be wonderful for you.”

Before Emery looked away, his eyes filled with tears.

Jack grabbed the reins and stopped the wagon. “What do you mean, for me? We’re doing this for us.”

Emery shook his head, slowly at first, then with vigor.

Jack grabbed Emery by the arms. “You’re scaring me, Em.”

Birds chirped, and a squirrel jumped from branch to branch in Mrs. Faucheaux’s old pecan tree, and still Emery stared straight ahead. “I didn’t want to tell you until after we’d made it to the ferry and you’d bought your ticket.”

Jack grabbed Emery’s face and forced his best friend to look at him. “Tell me what?”

Emery’s hesitation chilled Jack’s spine.

Agonizing moments passed before Emery gathered himself enough to speak. “I can’t go with you.”

Panic scrambled Jack’s thoughts. He grabbed Emery’s arm. “You have to go. We’ve got everything planned. Don’t you remember?”

“Of course, I remember. But I can’t go. I just can’t.”

Jack stiffened his back. “You have to. I can’t do this on my own. I don’t want to be without you. I need you.” With one trembling hand, Jack clutched Emery’s sleeve. “We need each other.”

Emery hesitated for an instant, then tugged his arm away. “Damn it, I’m not going and that’s final! Now shut the hell up about it.”

He snatched the reins back, and they set out again. The wagon lumbered along the dirt road, while Jack and Emery sat silently all the way to the Algiers Ferry crossing.

Jack’s fear grew at the thought of traveling so far away from home by himself. How would he survive without Emery? Yet, he found it difficult to beg.

They stopped at the pawnshop on Daneel Street, where Jack sold his grandmother’s fichu pin. The pawnbroker agreed that if Jack sent him the money within a few months, he’d return the pin to Jack’s mother. Jack’s guilt at stealing it abated. Mama would understand.

“Look,” Jack said as he showed Emery the money he’d received. “I have enough for us both, if that’s the problem.”

Emery steered the horses onto the ferry without saying a word.

They both jumped down onto the deck, and after Emery secured the horses, he led Jack below deck, where they found a darkened corner to themselves. “I can’t go, Jack. You have to understand. The folks need me, and what can I do out there, anyway? All I know is farmin’.”

“We’ll learn what to do,” Jack said weakly, too sad to plead.

“You’re better at learnin’ than me, Jacko. I can’t and that’s the end of it.”

Jack scouted around and discovered that they were quite alone. He hugged Emery, who kissed him hard and touched him frenetically through his clothes. “I want you, one last time. Something to remember you by.”

Emery’s eyes filled with tears. “I want you too.”

Jack undid his trousers. There were no words, just muffled moans, and tears enough to float the boat to shore.

After they’d disembarked the ferry, Emery drove along Canal Street toward the train depot. Jack didn’t try to convince Emery to change his mind, nor did Emery ask Jack to stay. All the unsaid words spoke volumes.

Now, in the crowded station, Jack gave Emery a brotherly hug.

“Do this for both of us,” Emery said as he patted Jack’s back.

With extraordinary effort, Jack held back the tears that seared his eyes. “I’m too afraid to go it alone, yet too afraid not to.”

Emery pushed him to arm’s length. “You go, you hear, and don’t be afraid. You were meant for greatness. Me, I’d just get in your way.”

If he lingered a moment longer, he wouldn’t leave at all. “I love you.”

His throat tight, Jack turned and walked away, the sound of his footfalls muffled by the breaking of his heart.

“Remember me, Jack.”

He slowed his pace, but didn’t turn around. Instead, he stiffened his back and walked toward his new life, without the man he loved.

THE confusion at Emery’s behavior gave way to righteous anger somewhere between New Orleans and Los Angeles. For all their planning, he obviously wasn’t as important to Emery as he’d thought. As the train breezed past amazing vistas, Jack accepted that while Emery’s realization was painful, he didn’t want someone who didn’t want him.

Four days later, in the late afternoon, Jack stepped onto the platform at La Grande Station in Los Angeles. He collected his shabby valise and set off to inquire as to where he might find a reasonably priced boarding house.

Jack approached a smiling young man in a blue uniform, thinking him a railroad employee. “Might there be a boarding house that you could recommend, within walking distance?”

“Welcome to Los Angeles, sir. There are several, but the best, from what I hear, is over on South Hope Street. The place is run by Mrs. Lord. She keeps it clean, for young men only. Very respectable I hear tell.”

“Thank you so much, sir. If you’d point me in the right direction, I’ll start my search there.”

“Take a left at the second street. Nice yellow building, you can’t miss it.”

“Thank you, sir. I appreciate your help.”

Armed with directions, he set out. No doubt he looked very much the tourist, with his mouth agape like an inexperienced small-town boy.

Palm trees swayed in the warm breeze as he walked down Santa Fe Avenue, past pastel-colored stucco homes, manicured lawns, and the biggest cars he’d ever seen.

His Sunday-go-to-meeting suit didn’t seem so fine anymore, and his scuffed shoes would no longer pass with just a good spit shine. As eager as he was, he feared he’d made a hasty decision. Would he ever be able to afford to live in the land of plenty?

Fifteen minutes of sightseeing brought him to a bright yellow clapboard building. The sign in the front yard read Mrs. Lord’s Boarding House. He followed the gravel path that led to an arched doorway. The first door on the right had a sign that read Manager.

Jack knocked and after a long wait, a woman with flame-red hair and an eager smile answered. She looked him up and down, then puffed on her cigarette. “And how might I help you, honey?”

The woman’s dark, assessing eyes discomfited him. “Ah, would you have a room to let, ma’am?”

She opened the door just wide enough for him to enter, but he hesitated at having to brush across her body.

She chuckled. “Well, come on in, hon. I’m Mrs. Lord. What’s your name, sugar?”

Her drawl and speech seemed affected.

“Jack Abadie, ma’am. I just arrived from N’awlins.”

She was his mother’s age or better and much too friendly. “Well, Jack Abadie from N’awlins, the room is furnished. The rent is two dollars a week, and that includes the shared bath and clean towels. Laundry and mending is extra, twenty cents a week. Breakfast is at six thirty, I pack a lunch for you every weekday if you want it, and dinner is served at six. I keep a respectable place here. Visitations with lady friends are conducted in the common room. I don’t allow guests in the upstairs rooms, and I keep the front door locked at all times. Your key unlocks it as well.”

Mrs. Lord stood back after delivering her rapid-fire pitch. Jack mulled it over, making some quick calculations. If he found a job right away, he’d be able to afford the place easily.

“Might I see the room?”

“Sure, hon, but you won’t find one nicer for the price.”

She disappeared into a room beyond, then returned, dangling a key from her finger. She walked toward the door. Looking back, she said, “Come on, then.”

Mrs. Lord led him up a short flight of stairs, her ample hips swaying with each step. “Here we are. Number four.” She opened the door and walked in, beckoning him to follow. “This is it.”

The dust motes floated lazily about the sunny room. A narrow bed stood under the window, and nearby, a plain mirror hung over the dinged wooden surface of a three-drawer dresser. The mirror resembled the one he had at home, where black spots had replaced the silver reflective paint. A single ladder-back chair rested against a wall next to an open space spanned by a short single rod. He presumed that was his closet.

“The bathroom is down the hall, first come, first serve. You’ve only got ten minutes in the morning so you don’t hold everyone else up.”

“I wouldn’t do that,” he mumbled as he looked around the room. There wasn’t much to it, no better or worse than what he’d had back home. “I’ll take it,” he said before completing his inspection, “and I’d like to pay for a month in advance, if that’d be all right.”

Mrs. Lord’s eyes widened as she extended her hand. “Why, honey, that’d be more than all right.”

“Great.” He dug in his pocket for his wallet. He gave her eight ones, leaving him with four dollars to his name. I’ll be fine, he told himself as Mrs. Lord counted her booty.

“Dinner’s at six. You can meet everyone then.”

“Thank you,” he said as he followed her toward the door.

“We’ll get along fine, as long as you’re quiet and pay your rent on time.”

“No problem there, Mrs. Lord.”

Jack closed the door and turned to face his new home. Clean and no funny, old-lady smells. That was a plus. The place was a bit warm as the afternoon sun poured in, but nothing at all like April in Louisiana.

He sat and bounced on the bed—creaky springs. Noisy, but functional. He needed to work more than sleep anyway. His mother always said, “You can sleep when you die.”

Jack opened the window and lay down on the thin mattress. The street noises were far different than those he was used to. He chuckled. Maybe he was too stupid or naïve, but he wasn’t afraid in the least. For the first time in his life, he had fully embraced life.

SLAMMED doors woke him, while shouts of “Dinner, dinner,” through the paper-thin wall got him out of bed. His growly stomach told him what his stopped pocket watch couldn’t—it was indeed dinnertime.

He opened his door and saw the backs of two men as they thudded down the staircase. One looked back at him. “You’re late. Miz Lord’ll take your plate if you’re not sittin’ in two shakes.”

Another growl and he was on the stairs, following close behind his neighbor.

Fifteen minutes passed before everyone around the long trestle table tucked into their plates. There was much scrambling for the one saltshaker, but soon enough it’d made the rounds, and the only sounds in the room were the clinking of cutlery and the satisfied groans of the six men seated around him.

His quest to satisfy his hunger eased his discomfiture at being in a room full of strangers. The roast beef and mashed potatoes hit the spot, even though the meat was overdone and the potatoes a bit stiff.

“You’re new,” the man across the table said, his mouth full.

Jack nodded, then swallowed, and answered. “Just got in today.”

“Yeah? Where from?” someone else said.

“N’awlins.”

“I love the accent,” the guy across the way said.

“Got high dreams, no doubt,” said a fourth.

“I s’pose I do, but my first priority is to find work.”

Everyone chuckled in unison.

“I’m Tommy Wells, and I’m in number six.”

Jack wiped his hand on his napkin and extended his arm across the table. “Nice to meetcha, Tommy. I’m Jack Abadie.”

“Nice to meet you too. This here’s Sid, Elliot, Robert, Joey, and the quiet one down there is George.”

Jack nodded and smiled at each man as Tommy introduced him. They returned the greeting, and soon the room buzzed with several disjointed conversations.

“So, you’re from the land of the Mardi Gras, huh?”

“I’m from the country, near New Orleans. But yeah, Mardi Gras.”

“Ever been?”

“Once or twice. Once you’ve seen it, it’s all pretty much the same.”

The grandfather clock struck seven, and Mrs. Lord came in and swiped plates off the table, whether or not the men were finished with them. It’d been sometime since Jack had enjoyed a meal more. The taste of freedom trumped his mama’s gumbo any day.

The guys were friendly, and almost everyone offered to recommend him to their bosses, though Tommy had the most intriguing offer.

“Yeah, the restaurant where I work is looking for help. Waiting tables is hard on the feet, but the pay’s good, more than covers your room and board with some left over.”

“Move on, now,” Mrs. Lord said as she snatched Jack’s empty plate.

“I gotta go, anyway. Meetin’ Sadie at the picture show,” Elliott said. “Nice meetin’ ya, Jack.”

“Yeah, nice meeting you too.”

“Wait up, El. What show you goin’ to?”

Elliott shrugged. “Don’t know. One with a balcony. Not going for the film.”

“My kinda man,” Joey said as he draped an arm over Elliott’s shoulder. “Say, does Sadie have a friend?”

Tommy laughed as he pushed back from the table. “You guys are all the same. Go on with ya, now. Chase your skirts.”

“Yeah, we know, Tommy, but under skirts, yeah, that’s where you’ll find us.”

Tommy waved off his libidinous friends. “Come to my room. I’ll tell you more about the restaurant. On my word, I think Mr. Darby might be willing to take you on right away.”

They mounted the stairs, two at a time. Jack followed Tommy to number six, right next door to his room. Sid shouted from three doors down, “Watch him, Jack. He’s a devil behind closed doors.”

“Ah, go on with ya now. Get back to your own places, you buncha perverts.”

Tommy opened his door. “Don’t pay him any mind.”

“They’re friendly enough.”

“They are, but they’re full of bullshit too. All most of ’em think of is lifting the ladies’ skirts. You want the bed or the chair?”

“I’ll take the chair,” Jack said, thinking to give his host the more comfortable of the two.

“Whichever suits ya.”

Jack brought the chair closer to the bed and sat. Tommy’s disarming smile set him at ease. “What’d Sid mean about you being a devil behind closed doors?”

Tommy brushed a dark brown curl off his forehead. “Ah, ignore him. He’s just jealous cuz it’s been over between us for a while now.”

Jack’s nerves jangled. “You like men?”

“Yep, sure do, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. If that bothers you, too bad.”

He studied Tommy’s classic features—straight nose, large blue eyes, full lips that begged for a kiss. “It doesn’t bother me at all. I just didn’t know it’d be so easy meeting someone like me, that’s all.”

Tommy chuckled. “I knew it. I thought I sensed something about you. This is Hollywood, son. We’re everywhere. Unlike some others in town, I’m rather proud of who I am, now that I’m not around my family, that is.”

Tommy’s charming laughter lit his eyes. With his manly features and goodly height, Jack had no doubt that Tommy could be a movie star. While tempted to touch Tommy’s skin to see if it was as soft as it appeared, he shoved his hands in his pockets instead. “My family doesn’t know. That’s kinda why I left. Catlic, you know. They’d have me in confession every day and with the priest at night, trying to exorcize my demons.”

Tommy smiled and nodded. “Yeah, same wit’ me. You got somebody?”

Jack frowned. “Not anymore.”

“Good lookin’ guy like you, that’s too bad. Was it serious?” Tommy’s face had softened, all traces of humor gone. He leaned forward, resting his arms on his knees.

“I thought so, but at the last minute, he decided not to come out here with me. No explanation, just ‘I’m not going.’”

“Best to get back on the horse, as they say. He’s a fool.” Tommy touched Jack’s face. “You’re beautiful.”

Jack pulled away, still remembering Emery’s touch. “Tell me about that job.”

Tommy shook his hand as though he’d burned it, his eyes full of quandary. “Didn’t mean to offend. Yeah, sure. Like I said, waitin’ tables, long hours, pretty good pay. You keep your tips. Got any experience?”

“My mama cooks for all the men who work on the sugar plantation. I’ve served food since I was old enough to hold a plate.”

“Well then, if you can write down orders, the job ought to be a cinch.”

Jack chuckled. “Then I think I’ve got it covered.”

“Good. I’ll give you the address, and you can come by tomorrow. I’ll introduce you to the owner.”

“What time?”

Tommy put his hand on Jack’s shoulder. “Make it noon. Darby usually takes a break for lunch about then. It’d be a good time to talk to him.”

“Sounds great. I really appreciate your help. Never expected to find something so fast.”

The touch felt good, but the timing was all off. Jack glanced at Tommy’s hand, then into the man’s eyes.

Tommy removed his hand and dug a piece of paper and pen from his pocket. “Here’s that address.”

“Great, thanks.” Jack rose. “I’d better go.”

“Nice to meet you, Jack.”

“Yeah. Nice to meet you too. See you tomorrow.”

“Noon. Don’t forget.”

AFTER a restless night in a strange bed, Jack awoke less than prepared to meet with a potential employer. He’d waited for everyone to leave for work before he bathed and dressed. With ten minutes to spare, he arrived at Darby’s Restaurant and Nightclub on Fowler Street.

Tommy greeted him with a big smile. “I’ve told the man all about you.” Tommy straightened Jack’s jacket collar. “Now, just be yourself. Mr. Darby’s a good man.”

They approached a secluded table in the back of the restaurant just as Darby put a forkful of potatoes in his mouth. “Mr. Darby, this is Jack Abadie, the man I’ve been telling you about. Jack, meet Mr. Darby.”

Darby chewed, then swallowed, and they exchanged handshakes and perfunctory greetings. Darby gave Tommy a nod that said “Beat it,” better than anything Jack had ever seen.

Darby studied him while Jack assessed his potential employer. Jack guessed Darby to be in his thirties, not yet gray-haired, well-dressed, and actually, quite attractive.

“You’re tall, aren’t you? Come on, sit down. You’re giving my neck a crick.”

Jack pulled out a chair and sat on the edge of the seat.

“Tommy tells me you’re looking for employment.”

“That’s right, I am, sir. I’m a hard worker, and I learn real fast.”

“Good to know. How long have you been in Los Angeles?”

“I arrived yesterday from N’awlins.”

Darby smiled, his teeth clean and straight save for the slight overlap of the two center bottom teeth. “Is that New Orleans?”

Jack’s face heated at the careful pronunciation. “Yes, sir, it is.”

“If you’re going to make anything of yourself in this town, you’d better clean up your speech. Charming as that accent is, it’ll do little but show you off as a hick. Charm gets you nowhere in this town.”

Blunt and to the point.

Embarrassed, but not defeated, he answered simply, “Yes, sir.”

“I knew a man from New Orleans once, owned The Grunewald on Canal Street. No matter. Have you ever waited tables or served drinks?”

“Drinks no, but I’ve served meals, and like I said, anything I don’t know, I can learn fast.”

“I’m sure you will.” The man’s smile was warm, knowing. “We work twelve-hour shifts, and I pay five dollars a week. You get your meals free and one day off a week, which is Sunday, when we’re closed.” Darby stopped speaking and raked his gaze over Jack. “So, what do you think?”

The delicious smells from the kitchen reminded him of home. “I’m ready to start, if you’re ready to hire me.”

Darby grinned and waved Tommy over. “Get our friend here the special. After he eats, you can show him around.”

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Born in a small town in upstate New York, Brita Addams has made her home in the sultry south for many years. In the Frog Capital of the World, Brita shares her home with her real-life hero—her husband, and a fat cat named Stormee. All their children are grown.

Given her love of history, Brita writes both het and gay historical romance. Many of her historicals have appeared on category bestseller lists at various online retailers.

Tarnished Gold, the first in her gay romance Tarnished series for Dreamspinner Press, was a winner in the 2013 Rainbow Awards, Historical Romance category. The book also received nominations for Best Historical and Best Book of 2013 from the readers of the Goodreads M/M Romance Group.

A bit of trivia—Brita pronounces her name, Bree-ta, and not Brit-a, like the famous water filter. Brita Addams is a mash-up of her real middle name and her husband’s middle name, with an additional d and s.

Readers can find more information about Brita Addams at any of the following places:

Website/Blog     Twitter     Facebook     Fan Page     Pinterest     Booklikes     Monthly column at The Novel Approach

The post Spotlight: Brita Addams and Tarnished Gold appeared first on Starla Kaye.

Spotlight: Dare to Risk All by Joyce M. Holmes

Joyce M. Holmes is my book spotlight guest today with her new book DARE TO RISK ALL, from The Wild Rose Press. DARE TO RISK ALL is available for pre-order now, but will be released March 11, 2015.

Can a forever kind of girl and a for-the-moment kind of guy take a risk on love?

 

 

BLURB – DARE TO RISK ALL

Tessa Caldwell’s carefully structured world is thrown into chaos when the handsome stranger she had an uncharacteristic fling with reappears in her life. Ben not only gets the promotion she thought was hers, but is also intent on resuming their physical relationship. Although Tessa’s rational mind insists on a professional association, both her heart and her traitorous body have other ideas. Can her sensible nature possibly win against such temptation?

Memories of the petite blonde with large, blue eyes have haunted Ben Dunham for months. When he transfers to her branch, he anticipates picking up where they left off. Reality doesn’t match memory when the cool and collected lady wants no part of him. If he intends to pursue Tessa, he has to earn her trust. The problem is, Ben carries a dark and dangerous secret. How does he get Tessa to trust him when he can’t trust himself?

BUY LINKS – DARE TO RISK ALL

The Wild Rose Press     Amazon     Barnes & Noble

EXCERPT – DARE TO RISK ALL

Ben crossed the room to the computer table. From where she sat, Tessa caught a whiff of a sensuous blend of spice and citrus as he passed her desk. She swallowed. Hard.

“I take it this was Ed Hardy’s computer and now it’s for my use?” he asked after a moment.

“I guess,” Tessa agreed. Needing to concentrate on something other than how sexy Ben smelled, she dug in her drawer for her appointment book to see what she had on her schedule for the day. Morris wanted her to clean up any outstanding work by the end of the week, leaving her free to focus on new accounts with Ben.

Ben walked over to her desk, folded both arms across his chest and gazed down at her. “Ya know, this polite stranger thing is getting pretty old.” When she looked up, he braced his arms on the edge of the desk and leaned in. “Are we talking to one another or what?”

Tessa dropped the book and flattened into her chair. That now familiar breathless feeling constricted her throat. His stance, his closeness, gave her an exhilarated, restless sensation. Her body reacted to the message she read in his eyes, little jolts of desire mingling with spurts of resentment. She felt ashamed of the treacherous way her body responded to him and if she read his smug expression correctly, he knew exactly what effect he had on her.

No matter what or how she actually felt, her pride demanded that she prove this impertinent man wrong.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Joyce Holmes lives with her husband and very small dog in the beautiful Okanagan region of British Columbia. An empty-nest mom, she treasures family time, especially with her two precious little grandsons. Hiking, biking, boating and photography are pursuits she enjoys when she’s not dreaming up stories in her head or planning her next great adventure.

AUTHOR LINKS

Blog     Facebook     Twitter     Amazon Author Page     Goodreads Page

The post Spotlight: Dare to Risk All by Joyce M. Holmes appeared first on Starla Kaye.

Spotlight: Freeing the Beast by Tina Donahue

In support of one of my favorite authors, I am spotlighting Tina Donahue today with her upcoming release FREEING THE BEAST. This is Book One – Taming the Beast series.

Tina has asked for your support in her Thunderclap campaign for FREEING THE BEAST:  http://thndr.it/1z2lkHH

BUY LINKS:

Amazon     Samhain     B&N

Available for pre-order February 8 – click here

Ready to read March 10

BLURB:

No more Mr. Nice Guy.

Magic is Becca Salt’s business, but it ain’t happening in her bedroom. The half-witch proprietress of From Crud to Stud performs miracle makeovers for paranormal creatures. Once she’s done with them, they’re out the door hunting for hot babes, not hanging around for a too-curvy, plain Jane like her.

Her newest client is hot, hung, mouthwatering perfection. What could she possibly improve upon?

Eric Diletto. Descendant of Cupid, bred for courtship, courtesy, and all that other gentlemanly junk. What has it gotten him? Dumped time and again for bad boys. He needs Becca’s help for an entirely different reason—regression therapy to release his inner beast. Grrrr.

Two potions later, they’re crawling all over each other. Becca aches for a man who loves her as she is, not because he’s under the influence. But Eric isn’t as impaired as she thinks. And he intends to take Becca here, there, and everywhere—anything to convince her his desire isn’t just the potions talking.

Product Warnings

A witchdoctor’s nightmare. Contains potions with weird side effects, a sorceress with limited magical skills and a yearning heart, plus a minor god who wants to get down and dirty. Bad, bad boy!

 

EXCERPT:

From the next room, something rammed into the wall.

“Don’t do that,” a woman warned. Her gravelly voice sounded as if she’d been gargling with Drāno.

A hiss from Hell answered her, followed by more pounding that shook the photos hanging in here. All depicting the French Quarter with weird symbols gracing the edges. Greek? Martian? Who knew?

Despite the redhead’s allure, it was definitely time to get out of this looney bin.

Eric shoved his feet into his loafers and pulled on his shirt, not bothering to button the damn thing. With his boxers dangling from his front pocket, he moved cautiously to the door and put his ear against it.

Muted howls, shrieks and groans greeted him.

Would he have to fight his way out? He knew some martial arts but wasn’t a whiz at it like Neo who’d spun like a human tornado in The Matrix. Hell, he wasn’t even a beast, which was why he’d come here in the first place.

Nitwit.

Still cursing himself, he edged the door open and peeked around it. The redhead was gone.

Her fragrance lingered. Something deep, seductive, witchy—for lack of a better word—which brought to mind sultry nights, the rustling of black silk, the delight of female musk.

He swallowed, then wrinkled his nose at another smell. The odor burnt matches make.

Slipping into the hall, he closed the door carefully so it wouldn’t make any noise. Not that anyone would notice given the commotion going on in the other rooms. Bangs, snaps, growls and hisses coupled with female voices begging or cooing. Some of those women sounded older than Death. Others spoke lightly, musically.

None of the normal voices was as nice as the redhead’s throaty purr. Her effect on Eric’s cock lingered. The damn thing was on the prowl, getting too thick, trying to crawl out of his snug boxers and go straight to…where? Her?

Yeah, right.

Ignoring his idiotic desire, Eric strode down the hall and stopped short of the front door, his blood turning to ice.

The young woman who stood between him and freedom looked to be about fourteen and dressed in a schoolgirl’s uniform. Plaid skirt, white blouse, saddle shoes. She crossed her arms over her flat chest and shook her head at him.

A powerful blast of sulfur hit Eric. He made a face at the unpleasant stench.

She scrunched her nose, either smelling what he had or mocking him. The ring in her nostril glinted.

He forced a smile and risked another step toward her. “Excuse me. You’re in my way.”

“You think?” She glowered. “You’re not leaving.”

Eric debated whether he could take her. She was a little thing, but the smoke rising from the ends of her hair and shoulders could be a problem. She might mutate into something worse than whatever kept hitting the walls in this place. Even the pictures up here bounced slightly.

He tried to reason. “I have another appointment. I’m expected.”

His lie didn’t faze her in the least.

“Seriously,” he insisted, squaring his shoulders, trying to look even bigger than he was and far crazier than her. “If I don’t show up—”

“You can leave. We have no intention of keeping you here.”

He turned at that husky, sexier-than-sin promise.

The redhead leaned against the wall, her attention darting from his boxers—haphazardly crammed into his pocket—to what she could see of his naked chest. There, she lingered, running her maroon-polished nail over her belly button.

Eric’s face went slack. He imagined licking that sweet depression, touching the silver butterfly dangling from it, then moving lower. To the pleasure beneath her harem pants.

 

About Me (You know you want to know!):

I’m an award-winning, bestselling novelist in erotic, paranormal, contemporary and historical romance for Samhain Publishing, Ellora’s Cave, Siren Publishing, Booktrope, and Kensington. Yay! Booklist, Publisher’s Weekly, Romantic Times and numerous online sites have praised my work, and trust me, I’m forever grateful for that. I’ve had my books reach finals in the EPIC competition, one title was named Book of the Year at a review site, and others have won awards in RWA-sponsored contests. I’m actually featured in the 2012 Novel & Short Story Writer’s Market. Talk about feeling like a freaking star. Before my writing career, I was the editor of an award–winning Midwestern newspaper and worked in Story Direction for a Hollywood production company. Outside of being an admitted and unrepentant chocoholic, I’ve flown a single-engine plane (scary stuff), rewired an old house using an electricity for dummies book, and have been known to moan like Meg Ryan in When Harry Met Sally whenever I’m eating anything Mexican or Italian. Yeah, I like to eat (burp).

You can check me out here – yes, I am everywhere! J

FB Fanpage:   http://on.fb.me/1ChWdD7

Email:   tina@tinadonahue.com

Website:   http://bit.ly/15Xy6LI

Blog:   http://bit.ly/1yRB9k9

Goodreads:   http://bit.ly/1wFmIu6

Twitter:   http://bit.ly/1ziy4IU

Facebook:   http://on.fb.me/1Dl8DHy

Triberr:   http://bit.ly/1CE2ec7

Pinterest:   http://bit.ly/1yFLeMx

Amazon author page:   http://amzn.to/1ChWFkO

My page at TRR:   http://bit.ly/1vb7eEc

EC Author Page:   http://bit.ly/1Dh9wor

Samhain Author Page:   http://bit.ly/1Bvw6mL

Sweet ‘n Sexy Divas:   http://bit.ly/1ChWN3K

Romance Books 4 US:   http://bit.ly/1JPtfeS

CONTEST – RAFFLECOPTER CODE

I’m offering one winner her (or his) choice of THREE of my backlist ebooks from this list:

Adored – RWA award-winning; EPIC 2011 Finalist; 4 Stars RT
Deep, Dark, Delicious – EPIC 2011 Finalist; Holt Medallion Award of Merit
Lush Velvet Nights – EPIC 2011 Finalist; Golden Nib Award
In His Arms – SIX 5 Star Reviews; 4 Stars RT
Sensual Stranger – 2010 Book of the Year (erotic); 4 Stars RT
The Yearning – Top Ten Bestseller
Take Me Away – #1 Pick, Miz Love Loves Books
Unending Desire – Best Book Rating LASR
SiNN – Nominated for Book of the Week LASR
Sinfully Wicked – Magnificent – Romancing the Book
Claiming Magique – Top Pick – NOR
Illicit Desire – Four Stars Romantic Times
Come Fill Me – Five Stars – Guilty Pleasures
Losing Control – Four and a Half Stars – Sensual Reads
Shameless Desire – Four and a Half Stars – The Jeep Diva
Illicit Intent – Four and a Half Stars – Sensual Reads
Deep Within Me – Four Stars – Romantic Times
Seven Sensuous Days – Four Stars – Long & Short Reviews
Stolen Desire – Five Hearts – Novel Broads

The post Spotlight: Freeing the Beast by Tina Donahue appeared first on Starla Kaye.

Favorite Recipe Share: Better Than Sex Cake

In connection with my guest post today at Ana Raine’s Dessert and Desire blog, I am sharing one of my favorite dessert recipes: Better Than Sex Cake. Yes, if you Google the title, you will find a number of such cakes. All good, I’m sure. But this one was in our family shared recipes.

Better Than Sex Cake

Servings: 10-12

Prep Time: 10 minutes   Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

1 pkg. yellow cake mix (and ingredients per pkg.)

2 cans crushed pineapple

1 7 oz. frozen whipped topping (thawed)

1/2 c. sugar

1 3-5/8 oz. pkg. instant vanilla pudding (and ingredients per pkg.)

Coconut

Nuts (chopped, optional)

Instructions

Prepare and bake cake mix as directed on package. (2 layers from round cake pans)
Five minutes before cake is done simmer pineapple and sugar until cake is done.
Remove cake, poke holes with fork. Pour pineapple over cake.
Completely cool.
Prepare pudding as directed on package.
Put pudding on bottom cake layer and let set 15-20 minutes.
Add top layer.
Spread thawed frozen topping on top and sides.
Sprinkle with coconut and nuts.

The post Favorite Recipe Share: Better Than Sex Cake appeared first on Starla Kaye.

Spotlight: Ana Raine and Clock Strikes

Today I am welcoming Ana Raine and her book CLOCK STRIKES (Neko 1), from Changeling Press.

Genre: Paranormal, romance, shapeshifter, gay

 

 

 

BLURB – Clock Strikes

Collin is a Neko, a human cat hybrid, who has never had the chance to leave Aloria Island. The only way a Neko is ever allowed to go to the human world is if they become a pet to a demon. Collin has been in love with Adrian, the Prince of the Demons, for years, but Adrian doesn’t even seem to notice he exists, so when Porter, Prince Adrian’s cousin, asks Collin if he would like to be his pet for the Annual Reaping of Souls Ball, Collin jumps at the chance.

Prince Adrian has secretly lusted after Collin for years, but a demon and a Neko becoming lovers is not only unheard of, such a relationship is banned. With a rebel army threatening to overthrow Prince Adrian and the royal council, Collin has to choose sides. But neither choice guarantees him a place next to Prince Adrian’s side.

 

BUY LINK  Changeling Press

EXCERPT – Clock Strikes

His blue-black hair would feel like silk against my skin. He would sit in front of me, his back perfectly straight, because princes don’t slouch. His hands, cool and big, would touch the sides of my face, pulling me closer so I could give him pleasure. And heaven knows I wanted to give him all the pleasure my Neko body could handle.

His hands would travel down his flat, tight abdomen to his pants. He would loosen his clothing and reveal his large, erect cock. I would lean forward and swallow him down my throat, hoping to hear his gasp of erotic pleasure.

My own body would be ready for him when he’d had enough of my mouth. I would look at him through my long dark lashes and the curtain of my blonde hair and give him my sweetest smile. The one I’d been practicing just for him. And I would finally say…

“Collin.”

I blinked, the sunlight glaring down into my eyes. I felt the soft grass mixed with flowers underneath my bare arms. I could feel my face flush, and I wanted to hide, but instead I looked up at the person who had called my name.

Rolland, my older brother by four years, was staring down at me. He was frowning, but I could see he wanted to laugh. His hair, blonde like mine, fell just above his chin and he reached up to tug on a strand sticking to his brown, fur-covered cat’s ear. “You were dreaming again.”

“I’m a Neko. I sleep fourteen hours a day,” I said simply, sitting up so I could better hide my erection.

Rolland plopped down next to me and wrapped his arms around his knees. “Who do you dream about?”

Although Rolland was only twenty-nine, he was one of the oldest Nekos still living on Aloria. Unable to take the confinements of our beautiful prison, most Nekos had already settled for a demon master and left for the human world.

“No one,” I murmured. At least… no one I would ever have.

“Hmm. Doesn’t look like no one.” He pointed at the tent in my pants.

I blushed and punched him in the arm. “Hey, shut up.”

He held his hands up in defense and lowered his voice. “No one stays here forever, Collin. Eventually, all of us will choose to go to the Neko kingdom forever, or become a pet to a demon. You should tell that special girl you love her while there is still time.”

“I don’t like girls, Rolland.”

He looked embarrassed. “Oh, yeah, right.”

I was silent. There was no way I could tell him who I wanted. He would think I’d gone crazy and then he would probably feel bad for me. “What do pets do, anyway?”

Rolland looked at me. “Why do you want to know?”

I had to be careful. “Just curious.”

“Whatever their master wants.”

“Is that why you’re still here?”

“Me?” Rolland ruffled my hair, and then pinched my cat ear before standing up. “I’m not going anywhere until you do.”

He was going to be waiting a while. I took his waiting hand and then followed him down the dirt path back home. We lived on an island surrounded by a sort of energy field that prevented humans from detecting us. I’d heard the kinder demons who came to Aloria frequently say that it was in our best interest humans not find us.

Sure, I knew it was a strange concept for humans to imagine half cat, half human hybrids, but I was living proof we existed.

The real reason for our invisible wall of protection, the one whispered amongst the bolder Nekos, was that the demons would never let us go. They had conquered us some four hundred years ago, and clearly we weren’t fighting anymore.

The futility of it all just made me want to chuck myself into the ocean. I wondered how long I could swim before making it to the force field. And then what would happen?

Maybe the energy field was all just a lie.

Our cottages were tailored to each family so after our parents and our sister left, Rolland and I had lived alone. Neither one of us had children or a Neko mate, so our house would probably be given to another, larger family if we chose to go to the Neko kingdom, which was really just another island without any hope of escape.

I pushed open our door and went to the kitchen to get a glass of water. Sometimes, I wanted to go to join the rest of our family on the Neko homeland, but I couldn’t leave the dark-haired prince from my dreams…

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ana is still figuring out what she wants to do with her life, although social work seems to be the most likely. Her best friends are a box of chocolate and her kitten who always sit beside her while she writes. When Ana was in high school, she often wrote about the LGBT community, but now her work is less…innocent. Ana enjoys writing anything and everything, including BDSM, dragons, shifters, magic, and more.

AUTHOR LINK

Website

The post Spotlight: Ana Raine and Clock Strikes appeared first on Starla Kaye.

Spotlight: Sherry Ewing and Only for You

My special guest today is Amazon bestselling author Sherry Ewing. She is presenting the continuing saga of Katherine and Riorden de Deveraux from For All of Ever in: ONLY FOR YOU.

 

 

BLURB – Only for You

Sometimes it’s hard to remember that true love conquers all only after the battle is over…

Katherine de Deveraux has it all or so she believes when she begins her life with her husband Riorden. But as she starts to settle into her duties as the Countess of Warkworth Castle, she finds that an easy life is not only difficult but downright dangerous to her well-being.

Consumed with the haunting memories of his father, Riorden must deal with his sire’s widow who just happens to also be his ex-lover. Yet how could he know just how far Marguerite is willing to go in order to have the life she feels they were truly meant to live?

Torn apart by circumstances neither Katherine nor Riorden could ever imagine, Time becomes their true enemy even while Marguerite continues her ploy to keep Riorden at her side. With all hope lost, will Katherine and Riorden find a way to save their marriage and have their happily ever after ending, or will Katherine be whisked back to where Time truly feels she belongs?

Available for pre-order. Release date March 17, 2015

BUY LINK – Only For You:  Amazon    Barnes & Noble     iBooks     Kobo 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sherry Ewing is a self-published author who writes historical and time travel romances to awaken the soul one heart at a time. Her debut historical romance, If My Heart Could See You, hit Amazon’s top ten bestseller list for the eBook only two days after the paperback release. Always wanting to write a novel but busy raising her children, she finally took the plunge in 2008 and wrote her first Regency. She is a national and local member of Romance Writers of America since 2012 and is currently working on her next novel. When Sherry is not busy writing, she can be found in the San Francisco area at her day job as an Information Technology Specialist.

Sherry enjoys interacting with her readers. You can email her on her website or find her on these social media outlets:

Website & Blog: http://www.sherryewing.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherryewingauthor

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/sherry_ewing

Tsu: https://www.tsu.co/sherryewing

Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/-jGfj

Street Team: http://eepurl.com/bfxO95

 

The post Spotlight: Sherry Ewing and Only for You appeared first on Starla Kaye.

Spotlight: Cowboy Up 2 – boxed set

Today I am welcoming Sara Ellwood representing the authors from the COWBOY UP 2 boxed set. The authors include Allison Merritt, Leslie P. Garcia, Melissa Keir, Autumn Piper, Sara Walter Ellwood and D’Ann Lindun.

Cowboy Code: There is just something about cowboys I find totally irresistible. Maybe it’s their boots, or their hats. No, I think it’s the way they wear their jeans and those big belt buckles. Honestly, I don’t know what makes my Eastern-born heart go a-flutter when I think of a cowboy.

I’ve wondered if my fascination comes from my growing up on a farm in West Central Pennsylvania. I can relate to the way a cowboy takes care of their animals and love of horses. Maybe it’s all those cowboy movies my granddad loved to watch when I was little. Or the country music I still listen to… Who hasn’t swooned over George Strait? *Think about that scene in Pure Country where he’s walking down the road*

In my novella, A Cowboy’s Heaven (part of the boxed set COWBOY UP 2), the Pennsylvanian ex-Army hero doesn’t wear a hat at first, or even own a pair of cowboy boots, but the cowgirl heroine sees the cowboy in him. How? Because it takes more to being a cowboy than what clothes he wears and knowing how to help deliver a calf… Okay, Collin does know how to do this. Collin is honorable and loyal, and he lives by a code that is very similar to the Code of the West… A code that anyone can live by…

Cowboy Up 2

Saddle Up with the best-selling authors who brought you Cowboy Up… And fall for Six more Cowboys ready to steal your heart!

Available in EBOOK and PRINT at Amazon

Find Cowboy Up and Cowboy Up 2 on our Facebook Page

BLURB – Good Ride, Cowboy by Allison Merritt

Sometimes all you need is one good ride to clear your head.

Thanks to her ex-boyfriend, Sommer Allen’s life is in shambles. She’s headed home to Courtland, Texas for her sister’s wedding, but when a quick stop a gas station ruins her plans, she’s left stranded and at the mercy of a handsome cowboy.

Perry Glidewell is on his way back to Texas after winning another championship in the arena versus a bull. When he finds Sommer having a meltdown in the middle of a parking lot, he knows he can’t leave her alone. Since her hometown is near his, it makes sense to hit the road together.

Sommer never imagined falling for a cowboy. His manners and gallant attitude win her over quickly, but with her future uncertain, she’s not quite willing to give her whole heart to Perry. He’ll do whatever it takes to break the walls around Sommer’s heart, because beneath her tough-talking exterior, he sees she’s the type of Texas girl he’s always dreamed of.

EXCERPT – Good Ride, Cowboy

Sometimes all you need is one good ride to clear your head.

Thanks to her ex-boyfriend, Sommer Allen’s life is in shambles. She’s headed home to Courtland, Texas for her sister’s wedding, but when a quick stop a gas station ruins her plans, she’s left stranded and at the mercy of a handsome cowboy.

Perry Glidewell is on his way back to Texas after winning another championship in the arena versus a bull. When he finds Sommer having a meltdown in the middle of a parking lot, he knows he can’t leave her alone. Since her hometown is near his, it makes sense to hit the road together.

Sommer never imagined falling for a cowboy. His manners and gallant attitude win her over quickly, but with her future uncertain, she’s not quite willing to give her whole heart to Perry. He’ll do whatever it takes to break the walls around Sommer’s heart, because beneath her tough-talking exterior, he sees she’s the type of Texas girl he’s always dreamed of.

About Allison Merritt:

A love of reading inspired Allison Merritt to pursue her dream of becoming an author who writes historical, paranormal and fantasy romances, often combining the sub-genres. She lives in a small town  in the Ozark Mountains with her husband and dogs. When she’s not writing or reading, she hikes in  national parks and conservation areas.

Allison graduated from College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri with a B.A. in mass communications that’s gathering dust after it was determined that she’s better at writing fluff than hard news.

Blog  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Google+  |  Goodreads  |  Pinterest

 

BLURB – Cowboy in Waiting by Leslie P. Garcia

She’d buried a hero. She wasn’t looking for another. But her cowboy in waiting was far from a hero…

Diana Salas Chester is a rancher’s daughter and a hero’s widow. There isn’t a lot she can’t do, from raising her daughter Gwen to facing down the loss of dream after dream. Then a birthday celebration goes wrong, and Diana winds up in Border Patrol Agent Ray Bennett’s bed. Not many of her acquaintances approve of Ray “Baby” Bennett. Is he just the cowboy she’s been waiting for?

Ray Bennett spent his life running away from the demands of his cowboy brothers and the ranching life. When he wakes up in bed with his Border Patrol partner’s sister, he doesn’t want the complications. But suddenly the choice isn’t his to make.

EXCERPT – Cowboy in Waiting

Across from him, Di straightened in her chair. He looked her over appreciatively. The halter dress she wore plunged deeply, the icy blue contrasting with a smooth, even tan that went enticingly lower than he would have expected. Compassion headed toward desire. Hell, toward lust. Maybe if the night went suddenly better…

She tilted her head a little, then shook it. “You…what kind of car do you drive?” she asked abruptly.

“Yellow Corvette.” He waited for the gleam of appreciation.

“Then you’re the idiot in the yellow car!” She closed her fingers around her drink glass so hard he thought it might break, and gulped half the drink before slamming it down again.

“I will never forgive Rachel for this—this nightmare! My best friend? How could she set me up with some stupid, stuck-up, oversexed jerk in a yellow car? Damn you, Rachel!”

He gaped for a moment, then slowly closed his mouth. “Just one thing,” he asked. “Who’s Rachel?”

About Leslie Garcia:

Leslie P. García grew up lost among a crowd of six siblings and a menagerie that included more than twenty horses and ponies, uncounted dogs and cats, possums, raccoons—even a lion and monkeys. Then she moved to Texas, fell in love, was disowned—and embarked on her real adventures, raising 4 children, teaching hundreds, and loving 9 grandkids through forty years of marriage. The fabric of that colorful life has always been writing. In A Cowboy Heart, Leslie celebrates two of her passions—cowboys and the ever present chance at redemption in spite of past mistakes. Leslie loves hearing from readers and can be found all over cyber space, including these places:

Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Pinterest  |  E-mail: lesliegarcia2000-author@yahoo.com

 

BLURB – The Heartbroken Cowboy by Melissa Keir

Love isn’t found at the bottom of a bottle…

Johnson O’Neill joined The Heartsong Ranch to escape his addiction. Stress causes him one night at a friend’s wedding to fall off the wagon and into the arms of the woman of his dreams.

Debra Donahue lost her husband to alcohol then pulled herself up by her bootstraps becoming a million-dollar selling real estate agent. One night with a sexy cowboy and a bottle of whiskey, Debra falls hard.

Can an alcoholic cowboy and a broken-hearted woman find love despite their fears? Or will the bottom of a bottle claim another happily ever after?

EXCERPT – The Heartbroken Cowboy

“I don’t drink, but could use a strong one, right now. Not this sissy stuff.” He lifted the glass to his lips, downed the contents, and shoved his now-empty champagne flute away before he leaned in toward her. The smell of alcohol on his breath hinted that he’d already had too much to drink. “Know anyone around here with some whiskey?” The dark sapphire of his eyes chilled her. This was a man used to getting what he wanted. “I’d even share.” His voice deepened and became husky with his offer and she shivered.

“I don’t drink with men I don’t know.” Debra stuck out her hand. “I’m Debra, and you are?”

The man grabbed another glass of champagne off a passing waiter’s tray and guzzled the drink in one swallow. “The name’s Johnson O’Neill. Now about that whiskey.” He reached out and drew her up to standing then tugged her in close to him. Wrapping his arm around her back, he moved her body in a slow two-step motion.

Debra gazed into his eyes. “You don’t have to seduce me for the whiskey.” She stepped out of his embrace and put her hands on her hips. She frowned.

“That’s not why I drew you into my arms. You were tapping your foot when I arrived—and I thought you might like a dance. A pretty woman like you shouldn’t be sitting alone.” He stretched his palm out again in a plea.

About Melissa Keir:

Melissa Keir has always wanted to be an author when she wasn’t hoping for a career as a race car driver. Her love of books was instilled by her mother and grandparents who were avid readers. She’d often sneak books away from them so that she could fantasize about those strong alpha males and plucky heroines. In middle school and high school, Melissa used to write sappy love poems and shared them with her friends and still has those poems today! In college her writing changed to sarcastic musings on life as well as poems with a modern twist on fairy tales and won awards for her writing. You can find many of these musings along with her latest releases on her website and blog.

As a writer, Melissa likes to keep current on topics of interest in the world of writing. She’s a member of the Romance Writers of America, Mid-Michigan RWA Chapter, and EPIC. She is always interested in improving her writing through classes and seminars.

Melissa doesn’t believe in down time. She’s always keeping busy. Melissa is a wife and mother, an elementary school teacher, a movie reviewer, an owner of a publishing company as well as an author. Her home blends two families and is a lot like the Brady Bunch, without Alice- a large grocery bill, tons of dirty dishes and a mound of laundry. She loves to write stories that feature happy endings and is often seen plotting her next story.

Website  |  Blog  |  Facebook  | Facebook Page  |  Twitter  |  Goodreads

 

BLURB – Cowboy in Trouble by Autumn Piper

A cowboy on the run and a girl on the rebound make for a messy fling.

Colby may be having the worst day ever. He wakes up at gunpoint, “hired” by a stranger to do a new job he doesn’t want. Worried the load he’s hauling is contraband, he walks off the job once he’s out of sight of his new employer. Running may not be his best plan, but he needs time to find a way out of this mess.

Delta’s day starts off rough when her pickup stalls on the side of the road. Lucky for her, a handsome cowboy comes along and works mechanical magic on the poor old truck. They strike a deal: he’ll help her out around the farm in exchange for a place to lay low for a few days. He turns out to be handy in all the right ways. A real keeper…not that she’s interested in keeping a man right now. She can afford a rebound fling, but nothing more.

Besides, once Colby gets rid of the crime boss breathing down his neck, he’ll hit the trail. A rodeo circuit cowboy from Oklahoma wouldn’t want to stick around on a little farm in Colorado. Or would he?

EXCERPT – Cowboy in Trouble

The door across the hall opened and by the time she turned around, Colby stood there in nothing but a towel. Hubbahubba, a very small towel, since she kept her nice big ones downstairs and hadn’t remembered to provide him one.

Um. Dripping, mostly naked, and looking as surprised as she felt… Wow. Those shoulders looked even better without a shirt. He had the prettiest eyes. Did guys like their eyes being called pretty? Whatever. Nice green-gray. And oh, how she’d appreciate a wardrobe malfunction right about now, just a little slippage of that towel. Although the healthy bulge beneath might not allow it to slip far.

“Ahem.”

“Er,” she answered ever-so-intelligently. “Sorry.”

“Sorry,” he said at the same time. “Forgot my bag in here.”

Caught leering. Her face must be flame-red. “Thought I had time to make up the bed for you.”

“I’ll just…” He indicated his bag on the floor by the window.

“Oh. Sure.” She stepped aside so he could get to it. Lord, please grant us a wardrobe malfunction…

He picked up his bag without the towel slipping, although she had to say it had soaked up water in some prime spots and clung just right.

As he passed by her, he paused, and she tore her eyes away. Reluctantly. God. Her mother had definitely taught her it was rude to stare. The poor guy probably worried she’d attack him in the night. He was hot enough, it had probably happened before.

“Ditto,” he said.

“Huh?”

With his free hand, he rubbed his thumb over her chin. “Whatever you’re thinking, right back atcha.” Looking up into his eyes was like riding the downhill part of a rollercoaster. Her heart screamed Weeeee!

About Autumn Piper:

Born and raised in itty-bitty Rifle, Colorado, Autumn Piper studiously avoided trouble…but is now inclined toward it, particularly in her novels. She thinks the best things in life are funny, and the runners-up, romantic.

An admitted carb addict, Autumn writes, edits, manages two teenagers, two cats, a box turtle with a huge personality, one husband and many supersize houseplants, and does the cooking and cleaning when forced to.

To sign up for Autumn’s occasional newsletter: http://mad.ly/signups/105424/join

Website  |  Blog  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Goodreads  |  Amazon Page

 

BLURB – A Cowboy’s Heaven by Sara Walter Ellwood

From the hell of lost love, can they find heaven together?

Katie Chester is alone in the world. After losing her husband and then her parents, she’s left to run Heaven, a thousand-acre ranch encompassing nearly an entire Montana mountain. She rents out a suite of rooms, but ends up with a boarder who shakes her to her foundation.

When Pennsylvanian ex-Army doctor Collin Kirkpatrick lost his wife a year ago, he lost his world. He needs to escape the pain, and where better than in an isolated town in the West? He answers an ad for resident doctor in Evansville, Montana, but is surprised to find Heaven and the angel residing there.

But can they leave their grief and pain in the past to blaze a new path into the future?

EXCERPT – A Cowboy’s Heaven

He smirked at her as he sat beside her on the hay bale. “You’re laughing at me.”

“Not at all. You’re actually a pleasant surprise, Dr. Kirkpatrick.”

“I hope in a good way.” He winked at her and quirked his lips up into a lopsided smile, then turned his attention fully on the cow and calf, and leaned over his long legs with his elbows planted on his knees.

The calf suddenly lurched herself onto her back feet and Collin grinned from ear to ear. “She’s a beauty.”

Dear God, he more than surprised her, he overwhelmed her, and yes, it was in a good way. A very good way.

Katie let out a breath and violently shivered. He picked up the discarded blanket and pulled it over her legs. “You’re going to catch your death. Were you out in this cold all day?”

She nodded and swallowed. No way could she tell him that the sensation had nothing to do with the cold, and everything to do with him.

With a deep breath to steady her racing heart, she watched as the calf latched onto one of her mother’s teats and started sucking with loud, hungry pulls.

“We can go inside in a few moments.” Sweet mercy, was that low, husky voice hers?

Collin only nodded as they watched the miracle of life before him.

About Sara Walter Ellwood:

Although Sara Walter Ellwood has long ago left the farm for the glamour of the big town, she draws on her experiences growing up on a small hobby farm in West Central Pennsylvania to write her contemporary westerns. She’s been married to her college sweetheart for over 20 years, and they have two teenagers and one very spoiled rescue cat named Penny. She longs to visit the places she writes about and jokes she’s a cowgirl at heart stuck in Pennsylvania suburbia. Sara Walter Ellwood is a multi-published author and publishes paranormal romantic suspense under the pen name Cera duBois.

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BLURB – Cowboy Proud by D’Ann Lindun

She left town to chase her dreams… He stayed and ignored his… Can they find their dreams together?

All Madeline Harper ever wanted was to escape the tight fences of Black Mountain, Colorado. Nothing would stop her from pursuing her goals–not a devoted boyfriend or infant son. Leaving everything behind, she landed her dream job as a Western Girl jeans model. Her sister’s wedding is the only thing that can entice her home. What she learns upon her return shakes her to the core…and changes everything.

For the last five years Shan Ellis’ life has consisted of taking care of his son and being a cowhand on his parents’ ranch. He scarified everything to be a single dad. College. A career. Girls. Now, the one woman he can’t forget is back in town. Can he take a chance, and risk his heart, or steer clear and never know what might have been?

EXCERPT – Cowboy Proud

This is how Shan had always pictured his life.

Doing what he loved with his wife and children.

Like him, Mason lived to be with the horses and cows. Too bad his mother hated the cowboy lifestyle with a passion. Shan couldn’t forget that for a second. Madeline Harper had ripped out his guts once before—he’d be damned if he’d let her do it again. Even if she wore a mile-wide smile and looked as at home on the back of a horse, herding cows as well as any cowgirl she wasn’t happy here. He couldn’t make her love the life, their son or him.

His good mood faded.

Last night, Callie Donovan had all but mounted him on the dance floor. He liked her well enough, but turned down her advances because he couldn’t get his mind off the dark-haired beauty from his past. In the five years since Maddy left town he’d held onto to the hope she’d return.

He was a fool.

Nothing had changed. He wanted a family; she craved fame and fortune.

About D’Ann Lindun:

Falling in love with romance novels the summer before sixth grade, D’Ann Lindun never thought about writing one until many years later when she took a how-to class at her local college. She was hooked! She began writing and never looked back. Romance appeals to her because there’s just something so satisfying about writing a book guaranteed to have a happy ending. D’Ann’s particular favorites usually feature cowboys and the women who love them. This is probably because she draws inspiration from the area where she lives, Western Colorado, her husband of twenty-nine years and their daughter. Composites of their small farm, herd of horses, five Australian shepherds, a Queensland heeler, two ducks and cats of every shape and color often show up in her stories!

D’Ann loves to hear from readers! Please contact her at:

Website  |  Facebook Page  |  Twitter  |  Amazon Page  |  Email:  dldauthor@frontier.net

Also Available in EBOOK and PRINT at Amazon

Amazon bestseller

Cowboy Up

Receiver of over 120 Five and Four Star Reviews

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