Cynthia Sax's Blog, page 237
July 10, 2014
Interview With Madeline Pryce
I sat down (virtually) with Madeline Pryce for a short interview. Madeline Pryce’s latest release is Dark Secrets, a sexy Paranormal.
Cynthia Sax: How does Dark Secrets start?
Madeline Pryce: Dark Secrets picks up two months after the close of Dark Cravings where she was put through the ringer. The opening scene represents a culmination of events that finally pushes Ella over the edge…
A swirling mass of orange and red flames cut through the air, the sound of its approach deafening. I narrowed my gaze, shutting out everything except the firebomb hurling in my direction. Time slowed. Oxygen vaporized into thick, curling strands of smoke. Heat waves wrapped around the outside of the blazing inferno barreling ever closer.
I should be doing so many things right now. Years as a lethal killing machine afforded me the training I needed to protect myself. Ducking, phazing…hell, even something as simple as a side-shuffle to the left would have saved my ass.
Except I didn’t move. Instead, I had a complete and total what the fuck moment. Our routine training session had just taken a complete one-eighty in the wrong direction. Micah McGregor, my half-demon lover, had just thrown a fireball at my head. Holy crap. Since when had he been able to conjure flames out of thin-freakin’-air? Knowing he was a demon and actually seeing it were two very different things. Proof that his demonic powers were manifesting lay in the ribbons of black magic twisting from the starburst pattern embedded into his palm.
Cynthia Sax: Does a character in Dark Secrets have a secret?
Madeline Pryce: Dark Secrets – as the title indicates – is all about the secrets we keep from the ones we care about. Ella isn’t the only one withholding information. As the book unfolds – one secret after another is revealed, pulling the readers deeper into the plot and series arc.
Cynthia Sax: Is Dark Secrets a series and will you be writing more stories in this series?
Madeline Pryce: Dark Secrets is the second full-length book in the Dark series. The first book, Dark Cravings, released from Ellora’s Cave in Dec 2013. The main series follows Ella and Micah with some novella interludes for the side characters. There is also another spin off 3-book series contracted by Ellora’s Cave that will start publishing next year in 2015. One thing you can expect from the Dark series is pulse-pounding action, gritty action, witty dialogue and some smokin’ hot sex scenes.
Series Reading Order
Dark Cravings (#1 Ella/Micah – 85k)
Dark Innocence (#1.5 Hannah – 45k)
Dark Secrets (#2 Ella/Micah – 85k)
Dark Vengeance (#2.5 Castro – 45k) – release date coming soon!
Dark Promises (#3 Ella/Micah) – Spring 2015
Cynthia Sax: What one piece of advice would you give new writers?
Madeline Pryce: This is a question I get a lot. The best thing any new writer can do is write. And read. Read tons and tons of fiction books, study the wording, how the sentences are constructed and what techniques the author uses to foreshadow and reveal the plot. The more you write, the more naturally it will come (most times, LOL). Next, get yourself a good critique partner – check out writing forms. The ability to take a critique and learn from it and use it to enhance your novel is a valuable skill. Don’t ever give up, just keep trying and writing.
Thank you, Madeline Pryce, for joining us today!
Madeline Pryce’s Website: http://madelinepryce.blogspot.com
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The worst moment of Micah’s life was when Ella nearly died in his arms. Her miraculous recovery should have been the start of their future. Unfortunately, a new demonic heritage, the Shadow Agency’s corruption and Julian, the vampire who turned Ella, are testing their relationship. Despite hotter-than-ever sex and a variety of new places and positions to explore, Micah begins to wonder if a relationship based on lust can survive for more than a few scorching-hot months.
Ella has forgiven, but not forgotten, the fact that Micah once plunged a dagger through her heart. Everything with Micah is passion, excitement and an uncontrollable desire to explore his body in a variety of very satisfying ways. But as buried secrets, ongoing lies and murderous deceptions pile up, Ella is reminded that she and Micah’s relationship was based on a curse. In order to forge a future together, Ella and Micah will have to face down their personal demons—and prove that love and trust are more than just words.
A Romantica® paranormal erotic romance from Ellora’s Cave
Buy Now From Ellora’s Cave:
July 9, 2014
Why Tryst Denied Isn’t an Interracial Romance
Readers have asked me why Tryst Denied isn’t classified as an interracial romance. Many readers believe Tawania, the heroine, is an African American. They believe Raff’s current form is Caucasian. If you look at these two beautiful people, you might think they were an interracial couple.
But they’re more than that. Raff is an Orogone. He’s, as Tawania calls him, an alien, not human, a different species. Technically, Tryst Denied is an interspecies romance.
I never address race because this couple has bigger challenges. They come from different planets, different galaxies. They’re being hunted by the savage Palavians and trying to simply survive. They’re not as concerned with the different color of their skin.
I also never address race. Period. In any of my stories. I never say a heroine or hero is African American or Caucasian or Asian. I mention their names and describe them in my stories. I also describe them to my publishers’ cover artists. Tryst Denied’s cover artist interpreted Tawania as looking like the woman on the cover. Other cover artists might have interpreted her a different way.
I do this because I don’t identify people in real life by race. When the hubby and I go to China, I see millions of different faces. They all look unique to me. Their coloring might be similar but their faces are one of a kind. My characters are as special. They’re all different, all unique, all more than the color of their skin.
Tawania sees aliens. She knows they’re not real. To avoid being locked up in an institution, she does what any functioning insane person would do—she ignores her imaginary intergalactic visitors. Only one tall sexy alien won’t be ignored. Raff’s heated touch scorches Tawania’s grip on reality. His kisses drive her to madness. He declares that she’s his destined mate. He also insists he’s real.
Raff, an Orogone warrior, is very much real. This handsome warrior has been sent to Earth to round up misbehaving off-worlders and he’s not accustomed to being ignored, especially not by a brown-eyed human female with the most kissable lips in fifteen galaxies. He has mere days to convince her to bond with him. Failure results in death.
Buy Now At Ellora’s Cave: http://www.ellorascave.com/tryst-denied.html
Buy Now At Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Tryst-Denied-3-Mating-Mark-ebook/dp/B00L91AYXW
Buy Now At Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-CA/ebook/tryst-denied
July 8, 2014
How To Dress Like A Romance Hero – Cuff Links
I LOVE cuff links. My dear wonderful hubby has a huge collection. He uses them to add some personality to his classic business suits. Cuff links reveal so much about a man.
Eugene “Gene” Klompus from Just Cuff Links ( http://www.justcufflinks.com/ ) has more than 25 years experience in the cuff link business. He’s helped many, many men and women with their cuff link selections.
I asked Gene to recommend the perfect cuff links for four different romance heroes.
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The Sophisticated Executive
(think Nicolas from Sinful Rewards)
This billionaire hero wears expensive dark suits, white shirts, silk ties. He travels in a limousine, eats at the best restaurants, is seen at Chicago high society events. He has a private jet and divides his time between Chicago, New York and LA.
Recommendation
Gene - This is an 18KT gold and sterling silver pair with a faceted and genuine Lapis center stone.
Our website’s item number is: EX-CL-47D.
I chose this pair because of its simplicity of design, and obvious good taste appearance. This pair matches the Sophisticated Executive’s conservative taste and follows his appreciation for quality.
Cynthia: Nicolas, the billionaire hero from Sinful Rewards, would definitely want this pair. I’m drooling over these.
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The Bad Boy Biker
(think Mack, Hawke’s biker friend, from Sinful Rewards)
This hero dresses in leather and denim, has tattoos and rides a Harley. He thumbs his nose at the rules. He rarely dons a suit but when he does, it certainly isn’t traditional. He will do anything once and thinks the guys on Duck Dynasty are wimps.
Recommendation
Gene - This is a nicely enameled and classic pair of cuff links depicting a skull and crossbones.
Our website’s item number is: SK-CL-Cufflink.
I chose this pair because it matches the macho mindset of this biker. And, I know from experience that it is a favorite pair among bikers
Cynthia: I can see every biker at The Road Gator (the biker bar in Sinful Rewards) wanting a pair of these cuff links!
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The Marine
(think Hawke from Sinful Rewards)
He’s proudly patriotic, willing to die for his country. He supports the All American dream, was likely the quarterback of his high school football team, likes apple pie and his mom. He calls the people he respects Sir or Ma’am, is very clean, organized, and always on time.
Recommendation
Gene - Red, white and Blue “waving flag” in a gold setting.
Our website’s item number is: FL-JJ-3572.
I chose this pair because The Marine is highly patriotic. He would be very proud to wear this pair!
Cynthia: These would be the only cuff links Hawke would wear. These are a must for every proud American!
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The Movie Star
(think Cole from Sinful Rewards)
He’s always in the spotlight, wears the latest trends, is seen in the latest social hot spots. He’s concerned about how he’s depicted and is constantly on for the cameras. His clothes, cars, attitude all scream ‘look at me.’
Recommendation
Gene - This is a highly sparkling pair of Cherry Red Swarovski crystal cuff links with a clear crystal surround.
Our website’s item number is; MIS-AU-SW27
I chose this pair because of The Movie Star’s strong desire to be noticed. This pair has great “bling” and he would love the attention it commands.
Cynthia: Not only would these cuff links appeal to Cole, but they would appeal to color loving Cyndi also. If they ever met, she’d happily buy him a pair!
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Thank you, Gene, for sharing your expertise with us today!
For fellow cuff link lovers, Just Cuff Links has the largest selection of antique and vintage cuff links on the net. Be careful though. If you’re an addict like I am, you’ll have a wish list several pages long!
Subscribe To My Release Day Newsletter: http://tasteofcyn.com/2014/05/28/newsletter/
Sinful Rewards 1
Cynthia Sax
Belinda “Bee” Carter is a good girl; at least, that’s what she tells herself. And a good girl deserves a nice guy—just like the gorgeous and moody billionaire Nicolas Rainer. He is everything she wants in a man.
Or so she thinks, until she takes a look through her telescope and sees a naked, tattooed man on the balcony across the courtyard. Hawke is mysterious, the bad boy she knows will bring only heartbreak. He has been watching her, and that makes him all the more enticing.
But when a mysterious and anonymous text message dares her to do something bad, she must decide if she is really the good girl she has always claimed to be, or if she’s willing to risk everything for her secret fantasy of being watched.
Is her mystery man the reclusive billionaire with a wild side or the darkly dangerous bad boy?
Buy Links:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Sinful-Rewards-1-Cynthia-Sax-ebook/dp/B00I7V89H0
ARe: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-sinfulrewards1-1560586-237.html
Barnes And Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/sinful-rewards-1-cynthia-sax/1119055390
Google: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Cynthia_Sax_Sinful_Rewards_1?id=g08ZAwAAQBAJ
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/sinful-rewards-1/id814148703?mt=11
July 7, 2014
Writer’s Block Or The Causes Of Word Constipation
Some writers claim that there’s no such thing as writer’s block. They’ve written a gazillion stories and they’ve never suffered from it. That’s awesome. Good for them.
But, unfortunately, it is all too real. Just because these writers haven’t experienced it doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. It is like love at first sight. Many people insist that isn’t real either. I thought the same way until I met my dear wonderful hubby. Heck, I mocked friends who experienced this phenomenon. Then the hubby and I fell in love at first sight. Bam. I was a goner, one of those besotted fools I once mocked. Twenty plus years later, we remain very much in love.
Writer’s block is less fun than falling in love at first sight. The words don’t flow. There may be a trickle or a complete stoppage.
Here are some of the sources of writer’s block and how I solve the issue (If you have your own solutions, please share them in the comments).
We’ve Run Out Of Story Ideas
We need a story for a call for submission (a publisher asking for types of stories) or a boxed set or a contest or (name your need here) and we have NO ideas, absolutely nothing. We look in our brain and it’s a barren wasteland, our imaginations parched and lifeless. We panic, worrying about our deadlines and thinking we’ll never have another great idea again. This makes matters even worse, diverting our creative juices to deal with our insanity.
THIS is what writing buddies are for. I keep a list of my top 100 story ideas. Perfectly good ideas drop off this list every damn day. I write light and the idea might be darker. I might not write in that genre. The idea is a little too mainstream for me. Whatever the reason, ideas drop off. I would be THRILLED to give you some of these ideas. I’d hand them to you happily. You likely won’t write them either but they might prompt another idea, a better idea (for you).
If your writing buddies are currently as insane as you are (hey, it happens), consider reading headlines, JUST the headlines. Guess the rest of the story. Or go to the mall and listen to conversations. Phone calls are the best for this as we only hear one side of the conversation. Take a book you love and play what if with some of the elements. What if Pride and Prejudice was set in a steampunk world? What if Mr. Darcy had a delicious secret he was trying to hide (maybe he’s scarred from a war or…)?
We’re Staring At A Blank Page
We have a story idea and now we don’t know where to start. We’re staring at the blank screen until blood drips from our ears and THERE ARE NO WORDS. Oh my God. What happens if there are NEVER any words?
When this happens to me (with every single story start – big sigh), I write down what I know. I already have my story idea. I’ll write that down. Voila! The screen is no longer blank. I have words and I’m writing. Hey, this isn’t so intimidating. I might have a glimpse of a scene or a tidbit of a conversation. I write that down also. I don’t expect to keep any of this. The idea is to start writing because usually when I start writing, I continue writing.
Usually.
Our Words Simply Stop
We’re zipping along, writing like madwomen, super excited about our stories, and the words simply stop. Can’t…Get…Past…This…Scene. We force ourselves to write because that is what many more experienced writers advise. This isn’t bad advice as long as we realize that all we’re doing is buying time to figure out what is wrong. These forced words will likely have to be scrapped.
Because we’ve made a wrong decision.
This is the number one reason why MY words stop (your reasons might be different). I’ve made a wrong decision for my characters. They know this. My brain knows this. But I’m stubborn as hell and determined to be right. I refuse to revisit it and my characters go on strike. The characters ALWAYS win and they should. If they know they’re doing something they wouldn’t, readers will know this also.
I go back to where the words were flowing in the manuscript and examine the following scenes. If I still can’t see the wrong decision, I’ll hand the manuscript to a writing buddy or I’ll talk it over with my dear wonderful hubby. Sometimes simply talking about it clears the issues up in my mind.
It could be something minor like the heroine’s motivation for an action isn’t right. In Sinful Rewards, I first thought that Bee was clothing obsessed because she cared what other people thought. Yes, she cares but the REAL reason she’s clothing obsessed is because she associates clothing with happiness. When Bee was young, her mom always looked tired and unhappy when she wore her cheap waitress uniform. As soon as I figured that out, the words flowed.
It could be something major like a lack of magic between a hero and a heroine. Writing romance is much like matchmaking. A couple might look good in theory but when we put them in the same room together, there’s no spark, no magic. I originally paired Camille from Breaking All The Rules with Michael. That was the grand plan. But when I got them together, there was NO interest, nothing, nada, zip. Then I introduced her to Nate and there was magic, that zing of sexual attraction. The trickle of words became a deluge.
We Don’t Want This Story To End
We only have one last scene to write. All of the plot threads have been wrapped up. We have that last lovey dovey scene to write and we’re done.
But we don’t want to write it because this means saying good-bye to the characters OR in the case of pantsers, we know what this last scene is. There will be very few surprises.
THIS is the scene I usually force myself to write. I tell myself that I’m writing a series (whether or not I am) and I will see this couple (or more) again. I like circular storytelling so I’ll focus on creative ways to reference the beginning of the story. I remind myself why this scene is important to my characters (it is their reward for surviving the story – grins) and readers (it is their sweet dessert at the end of the romance meal).
What are some of your techniques for dealing with writer’s block?
Subscribe To My Release Day Newsletter: http://tasteofcyn.com/2014/05/28/newsletter/
Sinful Rewards 1
Cynthia Sax
Belinda “Bee” Carter is a good girl; at least, that’s what she tells herself. And a good girl deserves a nice guy—just like the gorgeous and moody billionaire Nicolas Rainer. He is everything she wants in a man.
Or so she thinks, until she takes a look through her telescope and sees a naked, tattooed man on the balcony across the courtyard. Hawke is mysterious, the bad boy she knows will bring only heartbreak. He has been watching her, and that makes him all the more enticing.
But when a mysterious and anonymous text message dares her to do something bad, she must decide if she is really the good girl she has always claimed to be, or if she’s willing to risk everything for her secret fantasy of being watched.
Is her mystery man the reclusive billionaire with a wild side or the darkly dangerous bad boy?
Buy Links:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Sinful-Rewards-1-Cynthia-Sax-ebook/dp/B00I7V89H0
ARe: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-sinfulrewards1-1560586-237.html
Barnes And Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/sinful-rewards-1-cynthia-sax/1119055390
Google: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Cynthia_Sax_Sinful_Rewards_1?id=g08ZAwAAQBAJ
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/sinful-rewards-1/id814148703?mt=11
July 6, 2014
Sinful Rewards 1 – Fourth Excerpt
This post has adult content. If you are under the age of eighteen years old or sensitive to adult language/situations, please do not read this post.
I’ve shared the first three scenes from Sinful Rewards 1.
Today, I’m sharing the fourth scene.
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I hastily don my purse, wearing the strap across my body. Leather smacks against my thigh, the fashion accessory designed for tall supermodels, not for my slighter proportions. If I leave the condo now, I can pretend I was never here.
I march out of the unit and into the hallway. The door closes behind me and the state-of-the-art lock buzzes, electronically clicking into place. My heels sink into rich red carpet. Gold light fixtures illuminate the common areas. Vanilla fills the air, the scent appealingly light. I’m surrounded by opulence and beauty. It feels good and right, as though I belong here, and no one, certainly not some tattooed stranger, will take my new home away from me.
I press the button for the elevator and study my reflection in the metal doors. My shirt is an impeccable white, the cuffs neatly folded at my elbows, the style copied from one of this month’s fashion magazines. The designer shirts in that spread had been expensive silk. My shirt is cotton, purchased at a discount department store. I’ve raised the hem of my black formfitting skirt so it skims my bare knees. My shoes match my skirt, the Louboutin knockoffs sporting the distinct shiny red-lacquered soles, the heel height and toe shape perfectly duplicated.
I brush a stray strand of hair behind my right ear. Even my hairstyle is borrowed from the pages of a magazine, my straight brown tendrils swept upward and contained by a plain clip. I might not be able to afford the real designs, but I can look damn close.
The doors open. Lona LaMarre, the notorious occupant of five oh one south, stands in one corner of the elevator. I hesitate, silently questioning if sharing space with her is wise. The aging beauty is rumored to be a high-class escort, a character no decent woman would ever associate with, a woman who makes my perversions appear normal.
She’s profited well from her perversions. Lona is clad in a gorgeous black Chanel suit, the detailing on the buttons and collar exquisite. She clutches a gold phone in one hand and a red Alexander McQueen bag in the other, the leather in mint condition.
Her flawless fashion sense lures me closer. I step inside the elevator car and press the button for the lobby.
The doors close and Lona raises her gaze from her phone. Her blue eyes are cold and assessing, not missing a single aspect of my appearance. I shift my weight from my right foot to my left, uncomfortable with her perusal, suspecting she’s determining my net worth down to the penny.
My measly net worth must amuse her. Lona’s lips twitch, her peach-colored lipstick immaculate. “Good morning, Belinda.” Her voice is husky, hinting of smoke and sex. Her floral perfume teases my nostrils, the scent expensive and refined.
Lona would never wear fake anything.
“Good morning,” I mutter as I claim the far corner. Our images reflect in the mirrored walls, and I wince. Standing next to her, I resemble a girl playing dress-up, short, slender, and insignificant, a cheap imitation of the real thing.
Even my good-girl reputation is a lie, as the tattooed man uncovered this morning. I gaze morosely at the red digital numbers, willing them to change faster. My telekinetic abilities are weak. The elevator descends agonizingly slowly.
“Your purse won’t last the day,” the escort murmurs, breaking the silence. “You should replace it before it falls apart.”
“It’s not that easy.” Her assumption that everyone has money irritates me. This week’s paycheck is already spent, the money needed to pay my mom’s rent.
“It could be that easy.” Lona smiles, her teeth straight and white and perfect. “You’re a beautiful young woman.”
I’m beautiful? I snort softly. Is she looking at the same reflection as I am?
“I have principles.” I want security and safety, a man who won’t leave me as my dad left my mom.
“Principles don’t buy designer purses or pay the rent, hon.” Lona’s brilliant eyes flash. “What happens when your bubbly little friend finds a man and settles down? She’ll want the condo to herself. What will you do then? Go back to that sleepy little one-stoplight town, work at the diner with your mom, taking orders from snotty teenage girls? Will you be content with that life?”
I jerk my chin upward and meet her gaze. “How do you know where I grew up?” How does she know about my mom, about the diner, about the teenage girls who made my high school days a living hell, forcing my mom to wait on them, to pander to their every need?
“Oh, baby.” Lona chuckles. “My sources might have given me the details, but I knew who you were the day you moved into the building.”
Don’t ask. Don’t ask. Don’t ask. I curl my fingers around the strap of my purse and dig my fingernails into the faux leather. Shit. This sensory distraction isn’t enough. I need to know. “Who am I?”
“You’re me, twenty-seven years ago,” Lona informs me triumphantly.
“I’m not you. I’ll never be you.” I’ll resist my unnatural urges, hide my perversions. No one will ever know. . .except for the tattooed stranger.
Subscribe To My Release Day Newsletter: http://tasteofcyn.com/2014/05/28/newsletter/
Sinful Rewards 1
Cynthia Sax
Belinda “Bee” Carter is a good girl; at least, that’s what she tells herself. And a good girl deserves a nice guy—just like the gorgeous and moody billionaire Nicolas Rainer. He is everything she wants in a man.
Or so she thinks, until she takes a look through her telescope and sees a naked, tattooed man on the balcony across the courtyard. Hawke is mysterious, the bad boy she knows will bring only heartbreak. He has been watching her, and that makes him all the more enticing.
But when a mysterious and anonymous text message dares her to do something bad, she must decide if she is really the good girl she has always claimed to be, or if she’s willing to risk everything for her secret fantasy of being watched.
Is her mystery man the reclusive billionaire with a wild side or the darkly dangerous bad boy?
Buy Links:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Sinful-Rewards-1-Cynthia-Sax-ebook/dp/B00I7V89H0
ARe: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-sinfulrewards1-1560586-237.html
Barnes And Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/sinful-rewards-1-cynthia-sax/1119055390
Google: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Cynthia_Sax_Sinful_Rewards_1?id=g08ZAwAAQBAJ
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/sinful-rewards-1/id814148703?mt=11
July 5, 2014
Sinful Rewards-Naughty Challenges, Luxurious Rewards
I’m at Delilah Devlin’s online home, talking about Sinful Rewards and surprise presents.
Here is a snippet…
In each installment of Sinful Rewards (each installment is priced at a crazy low 99 cents, less than a convenience store chocolate bar and just as yummy), Bee receives one sexy hot challenge with the possibility of one delicious reward. She doesn’t know what this reward is until AFTER she completes the challenge. This means she has to weigh the difficulty (or, in her case, the naughtiness) of the reward against what she could possibly earn.
I love this idea (and secretly Bee does also). It is the wrapped birthday gift scenario. When the gift is wrapped, it could be ANYTHING. It could be an all expense paid trip to Paris, designer shoes, a lifetime supply of Nutella, a 500 page book of puns, anything.
Subscribe To My Release Day Newsletter: http://tasteofcyn.com/2014/05/28/newsletter/
Sinful Rewards 1
Cynthia Sax
Belinda “Bee” Carter is a good girl; at least, that’s what she tells herself. And a good girl deserves a nice guy—just like the gorgeous and moody billionaire Nicolas Rainer. He is everything she wants in a man.
Or so she thinks, until she takes a look through her telescope and sees a naked, tattooed man on the balcony across the courtyard. Hawke is mysterious, the bad boy she knows will bring only heartbreak. He has been watching her, and that makes him all the more enticing.
But when a mysterious and anonymous text message dares her to do something bad, she must decide if she is really the good girl she has always claimed to be, or if she’s willing to risk everything for her secret fantasy of being watched.
Is her mystery man the reclusive billionaire with a wild side or the darkly dangerous bad boy?
Buy Links:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Sinful-Rewards-1-Cynthia-Sax-ebook/dp/B00I7V89H0
ARe: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-sinfulrewards1-1560586-237.html
Barnes And Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/sinful-rewards-1-cynthia-sax/1119055390
Google: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Cynthia_Sax_Sinful_Rewards_1?id=g08ZAwAAQBAJ
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/sinful-rewards-1/id814148703?mt=11
July 3, 2014
Fireworks In Chicago
Since today is July 4th, a celebration in the US, and Tuesday was Canada Day, I thought I’d share some of my fireworks photos from one of my July 4ths spent in Chicago.
(You can click on the photos to enlarge them.)
We stood near Buckingham Fountain, yes, the same fountain featured in Married With Children. There were SO many people.
Unfortunately, there were also lights and bit of rain.
The dear wonderful hubby and I had a wonderful time though. As my grandma used to say “I’m not made of sugar. I won’t melt.” And I didn’t (grins).
Bee, Nicolas and Hawke from Sinful Rewards will, of course, be spending July 4th in Chicago. Hawke will be watching the fireworks from his balcony. Our bad boy doesn’t intend to wear clothes. Nicolas will be sitting in his tiny park, a phone pressed against one ear. Bee and her best friend Cyndi will be taking turns using the new telescope Cyndi purchased. Cyndi has stocked up on jellybeans from her family’s plant. Bee will make some snacks.
Subscribe To My Release Day Newsletter: http://tasteofcyn.com/2014/05/28/newsletter/
Sinful Rewards 1
Cynthia Sax
Belinda “Bee” Carter is a good girl; at least, that’s what she tells herself. And a good girl deserves a nice guy—just like the gorgeous and moody billionaire Nicolas Rainer. He is everything she wants in a man.
Or so she thinks, until she takes a look through her telescope and sees a naked, tattooed man on the balcony across the courtyard. Hawke is mysterious, the bad boy she knows will bring only heartbreak. He has been watching her, and that makes him all the more enticing.
But when a mysterious and anonymous text message dares her to do something bad, she must decide if she is really the good girl she has always claimed to be, or if she’s willing to risk everything for her secret fantasy of being watched.
Is her mystery man the reclusive billionaire with a wild side or the darkly dangerous bad boy?
Buy Links:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Sinful-Rewards-1-Cynthia-Sax-ebook/dp/B00I7V89H0
Barnes And Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/sinful-rewards-1-cynthia-sax/1119055390
Google: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Cynthia_Sax_Sinful_Rewards_1?id=g08ZAwAAQBAJ
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/sinful-rewards-1/id814148703?mt=11
July 2, 2014
The Freedom Hop – Sinful Rewards
I’m participating in The Freedom Hop today, hosted by http://romancebeckons.blogspot.ca/p/blog-hops-events.html#.U5j2mXZZTsk
Hawke, one of the heroes in Sinful Rewards, is a former Marine. Some readers have asked me why I call him a former Marine and not a Marine or an ex-Marine.
Former Marine does sound awkward but it is the correct term. There are no ex-Marines. Once a Marine, always a Marine. If Hawke had been on active duty, I would have described him as a Marine. Because he’s no longer on active duty, he’s called a former Marine.
There are plenty of people in Romanceland writing about Marine heroes on active duty. I found it more fascinating to explore what Marines and other military men might do with their specialized skills once they returned home.
Hawke, having been trained in intelligence, works security, protecting the wealthy. All of the people in the Organization, the mysterious company he’s affiliated with, are former military personnel. These every day heroes are continuing to do what they did in the military. They’re safeguarding others.
Have you served or do you have loved ones who have served? One commenter will win her or his choice of any eBook from my backlist (excluding collections).
Subscribe To My Release Day Newsletter: http://tasteofcyn.com/2014/05/28/newsletter/
Sinful Rewards 1
Cynthia Sax
Belinda “Bee” Carter is a good girl; at least, that’s what she tells herself. And a good girl deserves a nice guy—just like the gorgeous and moody billionaire Nicolas Rainer. He is everything she wants in a man.
Or so she thinks, until she takes a look through her telescope and sees a naked, tattooed man on the balcony across the courtyard. Hawke is mysterious, the bad boy she knows will bring only heartbreak. He has been watching her, and that makes him all the more enticing.
But when a mysterious and anonymous text message dares her to do something bad, she must decide if she is really the good girl she has always claimed to be, or if she’s willing to risk everything for her secret fantasy of being watched.
Is her mystery man the reclusive billionaire with a wild side or the darkly dangerous bad boy?
Buy Links:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Sinful-Rewards-1-Cynthia-Sax-ebook/dp/B00I7V89H0
Barnes And Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/sinful-rewards-1-cynthia-sax/1119055390
Google: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Cynthia_Sax_Sinful_Rewards_1?id=g08ZAwAAQBAJ
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/sinful-rewards-1/id814148703?mt=11
Here are a list of writers also participating in The Freedom Hop!
July 1, 2014
Interview With Paige Matthews
I sat down (virtually) with Paige Matthews for a short interview. Paige Matthews’s latest release is Dominate Me, a sexy BDSM.
Cynthia Sax: What excites you about Dominate Me?
Paige Matthews: I believe the thing that excites me the most about this story is that it was my favorite to write so far. The premise was one that I really enjoyed streching myself and my writing ability. The story has drama, sex, fun one liners and of course a happy ending!
Cynthia Sax: What creates conflict between your characters?
Paige Matthews: There are a few different factors that create conflict between the characters (btw-there are 3 main characters) including, secret pasts, inability to express ones self and the fact that an ex-lover returns with his life in danger. That always adds a few chapters of conflict, LOL. Seriously though, conflict is drawn from the alpha male’s inability to recitify his pasts and feelings that he harbours including his unwillingness to tell the heroine about it.
Cynthia Sax: What one piece of advice would you give new writers?
Paige Matthews: The biggest piece of advice that I would give new writers is to never give up. The publishing world can be harsh, but you need to let half of it roll off your back and continue on with what you enjoy. The more you read in and out of your genre and the more you write, the better you get. Another piece of advice is to have a team behind you. Meaning, make sure you have a competent editor, a cover designer and you are willing to spend hours on social media to build your folowing, whether or not you are traditionally published or self-published.
Cynthia Sax: What do you love about writing BDSM?
Paige Matthews: I love, love, love writing the BDSM subgenre. Besides it being sexy and full of sex, I enjoy putting a plot behind the sex. The purpose of my writings, and what I hope to get across to my readers, is the emotional aspect of the relationships, the feelings and thoughts that the characters have. I enjoy diving into their pysche to help readers and the general public understand the parts of BDSM that they do not necessarily understand. BDSM sub genre has gained a tremendous amount of publicity since FSOG, but not many know the true nature behind the lifestyle and what it is that a person gets from it.
Thank you, Paige Matthews, for joining us today!
Paige Matthews’s Website: http://www.paigematthews.com
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Devlin Fitzpatrick is a man of few words. Usually. An expert in surveillance and security, and a Dominant at Devoured, Devlin is known for his authoritative ways. After making the decision to observe rather than participate, and hiding from feelings and desires only few know about, Devlin throws himself into his work, and away from the practice of the lifestyle – that is, until he meets Ally. A chance encounter sets a new fire burning inside of Devlin – one that, up until then, has been absent. But, just as their relationship flares, a face from Devlin’s past returns, re-igniting long-subdued desires.
Ally O’Conner was not looking for a man – especially one like Devlin. Yet, the mysterious, gorgeous, and dominant stranger becomes the one person Ally didn’t know she was seeking. As Devlin opens Ally’s world up to hidden emotions and uncharted desires, Ally quickly finds herself falling, even though she knows Devlin is hiding something from her: desires or needs she is unsure of. When a stranger calls, looking for Devlin’s help, Ally begins to fear the worst as he begins to pull away.
Aiden MacCarrick has spent the last few years bouncing from place to place – drumming up work wherever he can. After a job gone wrong, Aiden finds himself on the wrong side of the bullet. With no other choice, Aiden reaches out to the one person he knows can help him.
As Devlin works to clear Aiden of a misunderstanding, and save his life in the process, the three of them are entwined in a foreign world of deep desires, unbidden wants and uncharted feelings. Can they find a happy resolution to their desperate situation, or will their emotions dominate them?
Buy Now From Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Dominate-Me-Devoured-Club-Novel-ebook/dp/B00L9J45YI
June 30, 2014
Interview With Sara Jane Stone
I sat down (virtually) with Sara Jane Stone for a short interview. Sara Jane Stone’s latest release is Full Exposure, a sexy Contemporary.
Cynthia Sax: What excites you about Full Exposure?
Sara Jane Stone: Two words—adventure and sex. Georgia, the twenty-six year old heroine who recently returned from serving her country in Afghanistan, craves both. She is a little wild, but very strong. And she is more than willing to go after what she wants . . .
Cynthia Sax: What is your favorite line from Full Exposure?
Sara Jane Stone: I have two. Actually, I had a lot more, but I narrowed it down to two.
First one: “Truth or dare.” Because every red-hot romance should have a super-sexy game of truth or dare on the beach.
Second: “I am strong. Don’t you dare doubt that.” Georgia says these words to Eric when he finds her surfacing from a nightmare. One of the things I love about Georgia is her strength. She fought for her country and is suffering from PTSD, but she does not allow that to define her.
Cynthia Sax: Where did you get the idea for Full Exposure?
Sara Jane Stone: I was rocking my daughter to sleep—waiting for the moment I could place her in her crib and she would not wake up screaming—and reading the news on my iPhone. A headline about soldiers returning home from war caught my eye. I love reading and writing about military heroes, so I clicked through and started reading. But the part that grabbed my attention, the quotes I couldn’t forget, were from a twenty-something woman who’d served her country and returned home with a burning need to live, to not let going to war be her last great adventure. Her words haunted me and I started reading all the first-hand accounts I could find of women veterans. And bit by bit characters started forming in my head, and I stared writing.
Cynthia Sax: Where is Full Exposure set?
Sara Jane Stone: FULL EXPOSURE is set in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, in the heart of timber country. I needed a strong, Alpha hero for my war-veteran heroine and I wanted the setting to play a role in the story. Eric Moore owes the largest timber operation in the state. And while he spends most of his days wearing suits (that Georgia longs to take off), he is not above working along side his crew. When a forest fire stars on his land, he is out there wielding a chainsaw side by side with his employees to cut a line and keep the flames from spreading. And this forest fire becomes a key plot point for the story.
Oregon’s Willamette Valley also provided lots of opportunities for Georgia to seek adventures. There’s lots of wide open space for a girl to take her boss to dinner on four-wheelers—and bring along a bow and arrow. The imaginary town of Independence Falls, Oregon is also a short drive to the coast, where my hero happens to own a condo with a hot tub. What better setting for a the hero and heroine to explore their desires, removed from the day-to-day reminders of the reasons they shouldn’t cross that line?
Thank you, Sara Jane Stone, for joining us today!
Sara Jane Stone’s Website: http://www.sarajanestone.com
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No touching allowed …
After serving her country, Georgia Trulane craves adventure—and sex. She’s set her sights on her brother’s best friend—now her boss, since she took a temporary job as his nephew’s live-in nanny. Only problem? Eric refuses to touch her. That doesn’t stop Georgia from seducing him. But an earth-shattering encounter leaves her fully exposed, body and soul.
Eric has a long list of reasons to steer clear of the woman he has wanted for as long as he can remember. For one, he refuses to be her next thrill ride. When he claims her, it will be for good. But the attraction is undeniable, and the more they fight it, the stronger it pulls. But will it be enough to conquer their obstacles?
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