Vivienne Diane Neal's Blog, page 67

Tips for a Rewarding Internet Dating Experience By Cherokee Billie

In today’s busy world it seems to be more difficult to find people that you would like to date. Internet dating has become one of the most convenient ways to meet someone and find a lifelong partner. More and more people are finding life partners through the internet. People are looking for that someone special whether it be by using an online internet dating service, looking in chat rooms, surveying the possibilities on Facebook, or testing their luck in online gaming and other virtual worlds
There is nothing wrong with internet dating. You just need to use caution and think before you start sharing personal or intimate details about your life. It is important to remember that you really do not know the people you meet on the internet and that you have to remember that they are a stranger.
As a psychic I receive frequent calls from people who have met someone on the internet and feel they have met the person of their dreams. The person calling me wants to know if the internet person is being honest and sincere with them. Using clairvoyant methods I am able to quickly tell someone if the person is being honest or if there is a hidden agenda. 
Often the person on the other end of the internet lives far from the other person and sometimes even in other countries. Right here is a mistake. There can be a great mystique to meeting someone from a different country, but is it going to be practical? How feasible is it for you or the other person to be able to afford to travel long distances on a frequent basis? These may be fun fantasies, but rarely do they work out as long lasting relationships. 
It is best to try to meet someone on the internet who is in your area code or at least in the same state that you are in. It is best to date within a 25 mile radius of where you are. The reason is simple, you want to meet this person face to face as soon as possible because that is going to tell you a lot more about whom this person is. Sometimes people do not even use their own picture on their profile. Many people exaggerate certain facts such as their age, weight, marital status, and sexual history. A face to face meeting will answer most of your questions pretty quickly.
Make sure your profile reflects who you really are. Keep your age within a few years and if you are slightly overweight state that you are. Ask if a person can deal with it? Be upfront with any positives about yourself and any flaws. This will help sort out people that would be a waste of time and energy. Someone has to love you for who you are-warts and all. Do not tell all about your past relationships. That should be reserved for when you meet in person and know this person better.
If you choose to talk by telephone it is best to use a cellular number. Remember this is a stranger you are connecting to. Do not give out your home address. More people are being stalked than ever before in history. Again use caution.
You should arrange to meet within two weeks of constant communication. Do not let a long space of time go before the two of you come face to face. Communicating on the internet can give you a false sense of intimacy. If the other person delays meeting you there may be a reason and the red flag should go up if they constantly have excuses for not meeting.
Meet in a public place and make sure that someone you know and trust is aware of your meeting and that they have all information about the person you are meeting, such as e-mail address, cellular telephone number, and any other pertinent information. This is advisable for men and women. Use common sense in meeting a stranger. Always practice safety first.
Many people that I have counseled as a psychic have sent money to the person they have met on the internet without ever meeting in person. They are always guaranteed that the person will send the money back and that their needs are urgent. People have told them every story from someones mother needing surgery to helping them pay rent. Unfortunately these people have been scammed and never get the money back and never meet the person. I have heard this story over and over. Remember you do not know this person and you have no obligations to help them out financially.
Dating should be fun and internet dating can be fun and rewarding if you use common sense and caution. You are looking to find someone who shares your beliefs, goals, values, and interests.It does not matter how you meet Mr. or Mrs. Right all that matters is that you do meet and find love.
If you feel you have met that special person through the internet contact me, Cherokee Billie, and I will be able to provide you with information that you may not know, and verify if they are a good match for you.
Also Read: Love Karma

™®©2008-2013 Cherokee Billie

Cherokee Billie is a spiritual advisor and the author of “Heavenly Seduction,” which takes you through her journey to find God and spirituality. For more information, visit her site at http://www.cherokeebillie.com

Wrapped Up - A Corseted Event with Bridget Midway and Yvette Hines

Fellow authors Bridget Midway and Yvette Hines are putting on an event called "Wrapped Up: A Corseted Event with Bridget Midway and Yvette Hines." The event will take place on Saturday, November 9, 2013 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Why "Wrapped Up"? Their upcoming novels, Licorice Whips by Bridget Midway and Red Hots by Yvette Hines, are set in a candy store. Therefore, when you register for the event, you will get both of their contemporary interracial BDSM erotic romance novels when you arrive! They will do book readings, have games, give away prizes, and have a corset contest. However, the big topper will be the Domme who taught Bridget everything she knows about BDSM. Author Dama de Noche will be there to teach attendees about BDSM as well as do demonstrations on a male and female submissive. Sound interesting? Then, you should hurry on over, register, and join them here.
The event will be at the Hampton Inn and Suites, 4449 Peek Trail, Chesapeake, VA  23321. To reserve a room, click here or call the hotel directly at 757-465-7000, and use Group Code: 600.
For more information on Bridget Midway who does not do things midway, please visit her site. 

An Interview with Stacy-Deanne (Dee-Anne)

We are pleased to re-introduce you to Ms. Stacy-Deanne (Dee-Anne), an award-winning crime/mystery and interracial romance novelist. She was gracious enough to take time out of her busy schedule to allow One World Singles Magazine Blog to talk about her writings, accolades and plans for the future. Ms. Stacy-Deanne first appeared on our Blog in September 13, 2010. Since then, she was recently featured in USA Today and countless other mediums.
Please tell our readers something about yourself. Well I’m 35 years old and I’ve been writing professionally since I was 19. I got my first publishing contract in 2005 for Divas in the New Millennium, a compilation biography book focusing on popular female singers. My favorite genres to write are mystery and crime fiction (of course), anything with an interracial romance, and women’s fiction. My favorite genres to read are mysteries and historical romance. I am single, have no kids and I live in Houston where I was born and raised.
Who or what inspired you to become an author. I never planned to become an author. It’s not like I dreamed of it when I was a kid. The lightning bolt just hit me when I was 19 and that’s when I decided to pursue a career in writing. I always loved to read and I always had good writing skills.
What lessons have you learned as an author? I learned that being true to yourself is more important than anything. You won’t be satisfied unless you follow your heart. I learned that just because you get a publishing contract it doesn’t mean everything is peaches and cream from that point on. I also learned that there is just as much hard work and rejection after publication as before publication. The difference is that once you’re published you sometimes experience rejection from an entirely different group of people. The most important thing I’ve picked up in the business is that it’s a good thing to help others and support others. You need as many people supporting you in this business as you can get.
You are a crime/mystery and cross cultural/interracial romance novelist. Were you raised in a multicultural/multi-ethnic community? If so, is this the inspiration for your books? I grew up in a middle-class black neighborhood and it wasn’t until I was a teenager that I was personally exposed to different races. Of course I saw them on television but it wasn’t until I went to high school that I was around them. I was mostly around blacks all my childhood except for the people in my family. We have all kinds of ethnicities in my family. What inspires me to write interracials is that I’ve always loved white guys. LOL! I grew up having crushes on them and I always found them very attractive so writing black women and white men romances come natural.
Which came first: writing articles or penning your first book? My first book definitely. I didn’t start writing articles until I’d had three books published. That’s when I felt I had enough knowledge under my belt to advise others.
How does it feel to have been nominated for an NAACP award and profiled in Heather Covington’s Literary Divas: The Top 100+ African-American Women in Writing? LOL! Well Heather’s book was nominated for the award, not me. LOL! I was flattered that she wanted to feature me of course. She featured many successful and popular female authors in that book. I was in great company. That was also very early in my career so I was grateful to get that support.
As a writer, what has been your biggest challenge, trials or tribulations that you have overcome? I’d say self-doubt. Honestly I don’t think I’ll ever get over that. I’ve always struggled with that since I was a kid, but I have confidence in my writing. I think writers self-sabotage themselves mentally. I feel it’s important to be positive so I always try to be.
You have written, Giving Up the Ghost, The Season of Sin and The Wild Life, which will be released soon? Could you please give us a blur about The Wild Life? Giving up the Ghost and The Season of Sin are currently available. The Wild Life will be available this July 2013. I also have a short that should be coming out soon called When the Mouse Chases the Cat. All these books feature Detectives Brianna “Bree” Morris and her partner Steven Kemp.
The Wild Life:
When Albany Detective Brianna “Bree” Morris learns that Cuban crime lord Milan Varela wants her estranged father dead, she heads off to Miami to find out why. With Homicide Detective Jayce Matthews and her ex-lover Detective Steven Kemp she devises a plot to get close to the Varela organization.

Brianna finds herself attracted to the older Milan and falls deep into his web of seduction while fighting to keep her mind on her mission. Milan is equally drawn to Brianna and vows to win her trust and her heart.

Is Milan really the villain when it comes to Brianna’s father? Or is he the victim?

Is Brianna’s father really in danger or is there more to the story than anyone could ever imagine?

Brianna risks her life to save her father’s but will she end up losing her own? (From Peace in the Storm Publishing)
Are you planning to write any more books in the near future? I’m always writing What advice would you give someone who is thinking about writing a book? Do not rush into any decision and research. You should take your time and learn about the business before jumping into it.
How can our readers get in touch with you? Readers can contact me through my Website. They can also reach me through Facebook and Twitter
Thank you for allowing us to dialogue with you. Do you have any words of wisdom for upcoming writers and/or authors? Believe in yourself and never be afraid to follow your dreams. If you want to be a published author you must believe you can make it happen. If you don’t believe in yourself, who will?
Thanks for having me!

Sustaining a Healthy Marriage - It Is Not As Hard As One May Think - Part 2

Love at first sight and thinking it is the right reason to get married so quickly may be a short-term sensation. Getting to know someone is imperative and should be a long-term endeavor. Be observant. How does the person treat his or her parents, other family members, friends, and strangers?  Does the individual, you are attracted to, treat others fairly? Is he or she courteous, respectful, caring, and compassionate? How does the person behave in private and in public? Is the person appalling behind locked doors and a so sweet thing in public? The way a person behaves towards others is the same way he or she will deal with you.
As the saying goes, show me your friends, and I will tell you what type of person you are. If your future spouse loves to party all night and stay up all day with his or her friends, then this may be a sign that you will be spending many nights alone.
Never assume you have the power to transform someone’s negative mannerisms. If a person is an obnoxious jerk when you meet him or her, then he or she will continue to be an unbearable jerk during the marriage, unless there is some divine intervention.
Looks, money, and status alone will not tell you who a person really is, but how one handles unforeseen challenges in his or her life will. Beauty wilts, money can disappear, and a person’s position can change, for better or for worst during the marriage.
The questions you should ask yourself are what is important to me, and what do I expect to get out of a marriage. Are you looking for love, money, or security? If these are the only components that you are seeking in a marriage, then you should already possess these elements before committing yourself. If having children is important to you, it should also be important to your future spouse. If you are knee high in debt and you’re living from paycheck to paycheck, then perhaps you need to evaluate your financial situation before taking that big step.
What ever the reasons you have for getting married, take a long look at yourself and your future spouse. Examine the qualities you both take pleasure in, and see if those characteristics make for a good sense of balance in both of your lives. Discuss your likes and dislikes. Marriage is not an institution to be taken frivolously. If there are existing problems, unnecessary drama, or turmoil during the courtship and engagement phase, then the both of you should take time out, evaluate your state of affairs, or go your separate ways. You can always do well or bad by yourself.

Sustaining a Healthy Marriage - It Is Not As Hard As One May Think - Part 1

Marriage is the union between people who vow to protect and honor each other and sustain a loving and healthy relationship.  Most individuals dream of meeting that breathtaking soul mate, going through the getting to know you and the dating and romantic stage, and then finally popping that question, “Will you marry me?
Having an unforgettable wedding is usually the couple’s vision. When planning a wedding, so much emphasis is place on preparation, time, and effort to put together a memorable ceremony. However, sometimes less importance is placed on the type of marriage one is seeking, not realizing there is a difference between a wedding ceremony, a short-term affair, and an everlasting union.
Sadly, the declarations couples make to each other are sometimes short-lived. With over fifty percent of marriages ending in divorce, a person should ponder the following before taking that big step: How does a couple maintain a long and healthy marriage.
Based on my observations of couples who have been married for over twenty-five years, they share many unique personas:
1. They usually have the same moral codes and aspirations, share a mutual respect for each other and enjoy each other’s company.2. Power play rarely exists in their relationship. There is usually a give and take on both sides.3. They definitely have a good sense of humor.4. Communication is central, which means they talk as well as listen to each other.5. They do not necessarily agree on every issue, but they respect each other’s views.6. They work as a team to make the relationship work, seek fairness, sensitivity, sincerity, intimacy, romance, and commitment from each other.7. Finally, they live life to the fullest.There may be many more characteristics. I am just listing the uniqueness of these couples.  This is not to say their marriage was flawless or without challenges. It means they went into marriage with the promise of dealing with any obstacle as a twosome. When a setback comes their way, throwing in the towel was not an option.
Marriage is not for everyone. Many couples do not realize this until it is too late. It is a good idea to search into your heart and soul and really think about how you see yourself as an individual, and whether you are ready to share and commit yourself to another human being.

Tips for Planning a Cheap Wedding by Miss Know It All

Yes, that is right. I said, “Cheap Wedding.”  Do not stand on ceremonies when it comes to saving money. Why spend humongous amounts of cash, refinance a home, or use credit cards on a wedding that might not last for more than a second.  
In New York City, the average wedding can cost $77,000. If you have disposable income, then go ahead and plan that extravagant affair. However, if you are in a financial hole, as most of us are in this economy, you can still have a fabulous wedding without going into debt.
Following are some ideas to help you plan that extraordinary and penny-pinching wedding. The extra cash you will save can go toward putting a down payment on a house, investing in the stock market or buying a certificate of deposit, even if you are only getting a one percent return. At least, you will have extra money for that rainy day.

Rather than have fancy and expensive invitations printed by a vendor, print the invitations yourself on plain 20 lb. paper, and do not include a self-addressed stamped envelope for your guests to RSVP. Chances are they will remove the postage stamp, never reply and still show up at your wedding.
You can save money, pain, and suffering, brought on by family, friends, and future in-laws, by going straight to City Hall.
If you must have that designer wedding dress, rent rather than purchase or ask to borrow a friend’s or relative’s dress.
Instead of having an elaborate reception at some exclusive banquet hall, celebrate your union at McDonalds, Burger King or KFC, and let your guests pay at cost.
Use fake foliage instead of fresh flowers.
Forget the eight-tier wedding cake. Serve cookies or cupcakes.
If you want to save money on food and drinks, have guests bring their own dish and/or liquor.
Instead of hiring a stretch limousine, use public transportation, roller skate, bike, walk, or jog to your destinations.
For music, bring a radio and tune into a station that plays non-stop melodies.
Ask your guests to take photos and videos of your wedding ceremony and reception. You will save a fortune. Chances are the photographer and/or videographer will end up taking lousy images, go out of business, or disappear with all of your money.
For your honeymoon, rent a travel video of the place you would like to visit, and pretend you and your mate are there.
In lieu of gifts, ask for cash.
Well that is it. These tips may sound tacky, but your wedding will be the talk of the town.
If you have some money-saving tips for a great wedding, we would like to hear from you in the comment area.
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Miss Know It All is here to help...Have a question about dating, romance or relationships. Need advice on finding your soul mate or a lost love or adding more passion to your love life.

We will try to provide you with the answer in a fun and humorous way. 
Send your questions to Miss Know It All at hmcsromanceinternational@juno.com. When sending in questions or inquiries, please include your name, age, and the country where you reside. To participate, you must be over 18 years of age.
Miss Know It All is an affiliate of HMCS and is for entertainment purposes only. The advice or answer given is not a substitute for professional advice and assumes no liability for any damages from the use of the information published on this blog or the reply to any questions submitted. You agree to hold Miss Know It All, its affiliate HMCS and its staff harmless from all costs, including attorney's fees, liabilities and damages resulting from the information published or any reply to such questions or answers.
All questions and inquiries submitted become the exclusive property of HMCS and can be used in any matter and republished in any media without any compensation. 

Lobola, a Common Practice between Families of the Bride and Groom by Vivienne Diane Neal

I am hooked on Generations, a popular soap opera that comes out of South Africa. The drama centers on men and women from diverse social and economic backgrounds and deals with love, romance, relationships, power, greed, money, and all the good stuff that human beings face on a daily basis.
Awhile back, one of the storylines focused on two characters, Sibusiso, a successful businessperson, and Ntombi, an independent and no-nonsense journalist who are planning to tie the knot. The bride’s father is a well-respected leader in his community. The couple had to participate in Lobola, which is a century old custom practiced in many African countries and is similar to a dowry observed in various Asian societies.
The Lobola process is sometimes baffling to many contemporary couples since they must follow certain protocols. The families may have known each other or lived side by side for many years, but they do not know each other on the level of the Lobola exchange. Since parents are not acquainted with each other at the height of the seriousness and sanctity of marriage, all discussions between them must be in writing and not by telephone, email, or via a swift visit.
Because the extended family is an important element in the African culture, especially in the institution of marriage, relatives, typically uncles of the groom perform the negotiations and not the groom’s prospective parents.
An impressive observance with dignity is involved when the negotiating "sides" from the families come together. The tension between the two parties involved in the negotiations is often broken by a bottle of brandy placed on a table. Even though the bottle may be unopened, it indicates the least amount of anxiety and an acceptance of the guests.
The talks can take a couple of days and will usually center on the number of cattle paid as the bride price. There is a current variation to this theme.  Commonly, it is not cattle but the talk of money. Cattle are symbolic and represent certain amounts of money. Once the bride price or Lobola is established, the dialogues are formally over. Still, before the actual wedding, the following of certain rules is mandatory. The young couple cannot meet until the actual wedding ceremony.
Lobola is still popular because it promotes harmony between the married couples and their families and upholds a sense of dignity and support, which can aid the marriage and encourages a harmonious union.
Source: http://www.essortment.com
To find The Africa Channel on your Cable TV, visit The Africa Channel

What You Should Know before You Buy That Diamond Ring by Miss Know It All

You know the old expression, “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend,” but they can also be her worst nightmare if she ends up with two carrots instead of two carats.
Before you purchase your diamond, certify in writing the Four “C’s”: Cut, clarity, color, and carat weight. Have your gem appraised by an independent and reputable gemologist, not one recommended by the jeweler.
Be aware that appraisals can vary as much as 25 percent. If you have a problem after purchasing your trinket, file a written complaint with all of the following:
Department of Consumer AffairsComplaint Division42 BroadwayNew York, NY  10004
Jewelers Vigilance Committee25 West 45th Street, Suite 1406New York, NY  10036
The Better Business Bureau30 East 33 StreetNew York, NY  10016

“Unmarried, Over Thirty Professional Women: Why Not Seek A Blue-Collar Man?” by Urenna Sander

It’s almost spring and some of your friends have completed plans for their wedding. You’ve received an invitation for a wedding in May. Another overzealous friend from college has sent you her August wedding invitation. Yet, you haven’t found that special man. Nevertheless, your biological clock is ticking…In September, you’ll turn thirty-two. You’ve achieved your Master’s degree, or medical residency training.
Lately, you’ve tried to interconnect with men on the internet, but felt disconnected when you met them. Maybe they weren’t a good fit; too superficial. You’re looking for the best provider. Maybe you’ve dated too many egotist who wore Zegna suits and drove a Mercedes-Benz. Maybe their view of a mate is a trophy wife. If so, you need to take a good look at the blue-collar man. Not wearing a white shirt and necktie doesn’t mean he’s dull.
Jacquelyn Smith wrote an article in Forbes Magazine(forbes.com) on “America’s Best Paying Blue-Collar Jobs.” Her list describes the top paying 20 jobs.
Perhaps socio-economically you’re considered upper middle class or middle class. However, did you know elevator installers and repairers make over $73,000.00 a year and the top 10 percent over $105,000? Smith suggested you think about that the next time you have to walk up 20 flights of stairs. In addition, transportation inspectors and telecommunication equipment installers make decent salaries too.
It’s possible family and friends might be dismissive of your relationship with a blue-collar worker. Your professional and social network might have nothing in common with your new beau.
Don’t try the Pygmalion effect on your relationship with this man. Don’t try to make him over. Don’t try to make him anybody when he’s already somebody. Examine his work ethic, compatibility and values, because they are more important than his rank.
He didn’t graduate from high school and become a high salaried blue-collar worker. He has specialized training and education. Respect and accept him for who he is.
Your blue-collar man might be just what the doctor ordered: A loving, passionate, humorous man, who makes you laugh, loves animals, enjoys books, a good beer, sports, motorcycles, soul or rock music. Moreover, he might enjoy a glass of Condrieu; listen to your eclectic mix of Vivaldi, Leontyne Price, Nina Simone, and Diana Krall.
Take your time; don’t rush. If he’s the one, and the chemistry is right, he’ll give you fathomless love and happiness, and deliver a great ride.
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Bio: Urenna Sander is the author of “True Season of Love,” a love story with many surprises concerning the characters, Olivia and Ptolemy. For more information on the author, her novel, and other works, please visit her site at http://www.urennasander.com 

Get to Know Liz Crowe, Author of Mutual Release

Why Not Real Romance? By Liz Crowe
Liz Crowe, AuthorThe Alpha Hero as envisioned by the typical reader is fairly predictable, and is expected to Be a Certain Way by many. He is tall, typically a brunette for some reason, broad shouldered, well-toned, powerful, wealthy beyond reason or explanation, and likely wounded in his soul and seeking a lovely lady to heal him.  I’ve spent some time writing these dudes myself but my guys tend to bring a touch of realism to the equation—one that does not always sit well with traditional romance readers or reviewers.
So, I’m officially calling my style of fiction: Romance. For Real Life. I bring the hot ‘n powerful guys, yes, but I also bring the real life tests of mettle, the hard choices, the mistakes and “the morning after” that must be dealt with.  It is my argument that 90% of the books out there today, be they “young adult,” (or the sneakily named “New Adult” which is a lot of hot romance with a lot of much younger heroes and heroines—also billionaires too a lot of them, but whatever), “chick lit,” “crime and mystery,” “paranormal or sci fi,” or even dare I say “mainstream fiction,” has an element of romance in it. That core story—the oldest one ever—of the attraction between men and women never gets old. Just ask Harlequin.
However, I meld styles, with contemporary, mainstream story elements like challenging family dynamics, tough typical (and not so typical) teenage experiences, hard work environments and small business struggles, personal inner demons and external real life pressures--along with that central, juicy, (dare I use the word) romance. I prefer to read this more complex sort of story, so that is what I write.
This is in no way to disrespect the efforts of any author worth reading in any genre.
On the contrary, it’s If you are a fan of the predictable HEA you may find it in my books, but I guarantee my characters are going to work very hard to find it. And will treat it for what it is: “Happily For Now” with promises to work hard as that is what real relationships require.
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Mutual Release is a coming of age novel about trust...on the long road to love.
Disclaimer:  This is an 18+ book with erotic BDSM scenes and explicit language. 
BLURB:

Can two dark souls ever make a light?
As president of her own distribution company, Julie Dawson has all she ever wanted -- money, power, and respect. But her carefully crafted façade conceals a torment of abuse and helplessness.  After years remaining emotionally aloof, she is finally independent, but alone. Because she refuses to rely on anyone but herself ever again.
Evan Adams is no stranger to success, or personal demons. The horrific trauma that destroyed his twin sister, and tore his family apart, forced him to craft a new life from the ashes of the old. He's content enough, focusing ahead and not dwelling on his murky past. But something important is missing. He knows what that thing is but refuses to acknowledge it.
When a chance encounter brings these two strong-willed but damaged people together, what seems like a long, erotic journey through hell could lead them to a match made in heaven.
Excerpt:
Monday dawned bright, clear, and cold, even for an October morning. Evan ran his usual route around the west side of his newly adopted town, relishing how strong he felt and looking forward to his workday – the one where he had a tight grip on his own destiny for a change. After a long hot shower, two huge cups of coffee, and an apple, he grabbed his presentation thumb drive and laptop and headed out.One of the things he’d inherited from his father was a love of classic English cars. He had sold two of the three Jags, kept his favorite and bought an MG Spyder, not giving a shit at how much it cost to keep the damn thing running properly. As he sped in his sports car across Interstate 96 on his way to the far-flung Northern Detroit suburbs to sweet talk, finagle, and wow the big-time distributor, he was on top of his own personal mountain. Nothing would spoil the day. He refused to allow it.He pulled into a visitor’s parking spot, tucked his Ray-Bans over the visor, and smoothed his hair before jumping out and striding to the glass front doors. “Dawson” was etched in the glass, nothing more or less, as if it were a boutique law firm or ad agency. Nothing out front indicated that it was one of the most successful craft beer and domestic wine distribution companies in the Midwest.Tucking away a shiver of intimidation, he pushed the door open and saw a small shrine to Michigan craft beer. The front receiving area was full of faux six packs, cases, kegs, and displays representing every brand, including some that were nationally known. A single desk sat near another set of doors. Through its clear glass he could see a bustling group of people, men and women, all dressed in top-notch suits, getting ready to go out on their sales day. The place oozed professionalism, even a bit of snootiness that surprised him.But he shook it off, walked up to the stunningly attractive blond woman at the front desk. She sat frowning at a large computer screen. He stood for a few seconds, thinking she would acknowledge him. Finally he had to clear his throat to make her look away from whatever had her mesmerized.“Oh, hello. Sorry about that.” Her smile made her already gorgeous face light up and left him slightly breathless. Looking back, he figured he must have looked like a complete ass as he stood there, unable to form coherent words, his brain awash in sensations he had not allowed himself to experience in a damn long time. She arched one perfect eyebrow. He gulped, knowing he should say something.“Uh, so, I have an appointment?” He winced at the upturning of his sentence as if he were asking her a question. Clearing his throat, he started over, pasted on his best “Evan Adams, Charmer” smile and held out a hand. “Evan Adams, owner of Big House Brewing in Ann Arbor, here to see Mr. Dawson. I’m a little early.”She tilted her head, then shook his hand matter-of-factly. But he had to stop himself from stumbling backwards at the thoughts coiling up in his lizard brain at her touch. His mouth dried out and an odd yet familiar roaring sound fired up between his ears. She frowned. “You okay, there, Evan?” Her lips caressed his name, making him repress a shiver.“Yeah, sorry. So, anyway, I’ll just sit… over here… until Mr. Dawson is ready. You know, since I’m, uh, early.” He winced, marveling at the depth of his dorkiness. She put her elbows on the desk, eyeing him closely. He observed that she seemed a little overdressed for a receptionist but figured this place must have a strict dress code.“Sit here,” she said, patting the seat nearest her desk. “Keep me company for a while.”“Um, sure,” he said, flushing red to the tips of his ears, then moving closer to her while trying to look cool, casual, not ready to jump up and escape.She smiled. “So, tell me about your company. You know, while we wait for Mr. Dawson.”He relaxed and launched into the tale, thankful to have a reason to talk and not sound like the world’s oldest high school geek trying to flirt with the prom queen. She asked a lot of questions, kept him talking. And after about a half hour, he was laughing with her at his tale of trying to empty a brewing vessel full of wet grains and dumping about ten pounds of the stuff all over himself.At one point she brushed her hair back, and his breath caught in his throat at the glimpse of her long neck and the small indent between her collarbones. He had no idea what that was, that soft spot that seemed to pulse with her heartbeat. But he wanted to put his tongue there very, very badly. Allowing his eyes to flicker over her profile, the striking angles of her face, he gulped, looked away.Getting a grip, he pulled a business card from his portfolio and handed it to her. “I’d love to talk with you more,” he said, trying to ease his voice down from its high-pitched nervous whine to a sexier, more natural tone. “But since I don’t even know your name…” He looked at the nameplate on the desk. It was blank.She leaned back, propped her high heels on the desk in a strange move that had him instantly on edge and practically panting with horniness.“Uh, so,” he glanced at his watch, his nerves dancing up and down his spine once more, “if you are interested, maybe we could, you know, go out. Have a beer? Keep chatting?” He closed his eyes, unable to bear his own flop sweat another minute. “Never mind.” He slumped back in his seat. Where the "Master Dom" Evan Adams had hidden he did not know, but damned if the guy was staying there and leaving this ridiculous, stuttering loser in his place.The silence spun out about a minute longer than was truly polite. He finally looked up at her. She was staring at him over the tops of her shoes, her head tilted to the side as if wondering why the hell he was even cluttering up her space. Finally, the doors to his left opened and a tall, good-looking guy in a suit stood there, surprise clear on his face. “Julie,” he said. “We’ve been looking all over for you. Your nine o’clock appointment isn’t here yet but…”The woman held up a hand, silencing the man but keeping her eyes pinned on Evan’s. His heart sped up and that familiar, yet nearly forgotten, roaring sound started up in his ears once more.Julie Dawson. J. Dawson. The person he’d been communicating with through his… or her… secretary.Holy. Fucking. Shit.He stood, furious that she’d sat there and let him babble on like a bloody idiot for nearly forty-five minutes. “Well, that was fun,” he said, staring her down, or attempting to. But his skin was both on fire and cold at once. Something about the woman made him have to hang on to his laptop case tight, just to keep from stepping close and kissing those full red lips so hard she would be his in an instant. “Or not. Thanks for your time.”“No, no, don’t go,” she said, getting to her feet in one fluid, sexy move. She was over six feet tall in her shoes, curvy, womanly, and sending out the sort of signals he had not intercepted in a long time – too long, if the way he was overreacting was any indication. “Really, I want to know why you think my company would be in any way interested in yours.”He processed her barb, clenched his jaw, and poured out the reasons behind why Dawson would benefit from jumping on his bandwagon now, in the early days, so they could grow the brand in a key market together. She listened, standing behind the stupid receptionist’s desk, her assistant wildly typing notes on his tablet.Finally, she held up a hand again. “How very… creative.” She walked around to the front of the desk, giving him an eye-popping full view of her. She was like sex on two perfect female legs, the exact body type he craved – full breasts and hips, cinched in but not obnoxiously small waist, long hair, and legs that went on and on… and on. “And, um, Evan?”He jumped back, hearing his name again.“Yeah, my eyes are up here. But never mind. I’m used to being ogled, and by way more successful brewery owners than you.” She held his business card between thumb and forefinger, as if it were made of dog shit. “Tell you what, why don’t you let me ponder your… proposal. And assume that your eye-fucking session won’t happen again.”She turned from him and walked away without a word. Her assistant shrugged and followed her back in, leaving Evan breathless, furious, and never more aware of his neglected libido. * * *
Liz will award the following prizes at the end of the Virtual Book Tour and the Book Blast:
Grand Prize: Paperwhite Kindle
1st Prize: Signed set of first 6 books (Includes all books in the series *except for* Mutual Release)
2nd Prize: boxed set of first 3 Stewart Realty ebooks (Floor Time, Sweat Equity, Closing Costs)
3rd Prize: Zazzle store Stewart swag pack (including canvas tote bag, mug, t-shirt, keychain)

About The Author
Microbrewery owner, best-selling author, beer blogger and journalist, mom of three teenagers, and soccer fan, Liz lives in the great Midwest, in a major college town. Years of experience in sales and fund raising, plus an eight-year stint as an ex-pat trailing spouse, plus making her way in a world of men (i.e. the beer industry), has prepped her for life as erotic romance author.
When she isn't sweating inventory and sales figures for the brewery, she can be found writing, editing or sweating promotional efforts for her latest publications.
Her groundbreaking romance subgenre, “Romance for Real Life,” has gained thousands of fans and followers who are interested less in the “HEA” and more in the “WHA” (“What Happens After?”)
Her beer blog a2beerwench.com is nationally recognized for its insider yet outsider views on the craft beer industry. Her books are set in the not-so-common worlds of breweries, on the soccer pitch and in high-powered real estate offices. Don’t ask her for anything “like” a Budweiser or risk painful injury.
Author’s Sites:
http://www.lizcrowe.com http://www.brewingpassion.com http://www.a2beerwench.com http://www.facebook.com/lizcroweauthorhttp://www.twitter.com/beerwencha2http://www.facebook.com/groups/romanceforreallifehttp://www.facebook.com/jackgordonrealtor


Buy Links:
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