Robyn Bachar's Blog, page 7
September 28, 2015
Book Tour Tuesday: Interview with Stacey O'Neale
Interview1. What flavor is your writing?Mint Chocolate Chip? LOL! I don’t know.
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
Tyler Hoechlin and Felicity Jones.
3. What is your favorite scene in UNDER HIS SKIN?
When Kaden’s brother confirms that Annabelle is his mate. The whole scene is really funny, and it tells you a bit about each brother.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
I’m reading THE SHADOW QUEEN by C. J. Redwine. I have a zillion books on my TBR. ;-)
5. What are you working on now?
I’m currently writing an adult contemporary military romance for my agent. Then, the final book in my MORTAL ENCHANTMENT series. After that, the second book in this series.
Think Fast QuestionsCoffee or tea? I dedicated this book to my coffee maker. What do you think? ;-p
Cats or dogs? Dog
Series or standalone? Series
Winter or summer? Winter
Print or eBook? eBook
Giveawaya Rafflecopter giveaway
Book Blurb
Earth girls are never easy. But they're worth it.Bakery owner Annabelle Sparks' business is booming ever since she won reality TV's Cupcake Wars. The one thing deflating her happy soufflé? The extremely sexy Kaden Chance only sees her as a best friend-and Annabelle wants so much more. After waiting a year for him recognize their chemistry, she's giving up and dating other people.
What she doesn't know is Kaden's heart doesn't actually beat. He's not human. Heck, he's not even from Earth. To retain his intergalactic immunity, no one can ever know he is an extraterrestrial. But when Annabelle starts dating, something strange happens to Kaden's unmoved heart: it begins to beat. Now he faces an impossible choice-tell Annabelle the truth and be deported-or lose his last chance at love.
Under his Skin is available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
ExcerptMate. He’d told Hayden he would stick to his routine. That meant watching the game at her apartment on Sunday and maintaining their friendship. His logical mind fought against his growing urges. Last night, he couldn’t have a simple conversation without touching her. And she didn’t make things any easier. He could smell the desire pouring out of her. It took every ounce of his self-control to hold himself back. At times, it was painful. “I know what I’m doing. I’ve got the situation under control.”
Cam laughed. “Like you did yesterday? Dude, we both know it’s only going to get worse. You’re like a ticking sex bomb.”
Deep down, Kaden knew he was right. Annabelle would become an irresistible, unquenchable thirst. Ordinarily, she would feel the same pull, but there was no way to know how a human would react. “There’s no such thing as a sex bomb.”
Cam spread himself flat across the sofa with his arms crossed behind his head. “Yeah, well, there definitely should be.”
“Be serious.”
He sat up. “I’m trying to tell you, it’s foolish to fight the bond between you. You’d be better off going with it and letting the panties drop where they may.”
And what would happen if he did bond with her? There was no chance it would ever work out between them. He had to hide who he was from the world. A life with him meant Annabelle would have to lie to her friends and family about their relationship. He would never be able to marry her or give her the children she wanted. They’d talked about her dreams for a white picket fence and a family. Even if she were willing to give up those things, wouldn’t he be putting her life in danger? A dull ache formed in the pit of his chest. “You know that’s not possible.”
If he could somehow push away these human emotions of his, maybe he stood a chance of keeping her in his life. Maybe someday he could actually be happy for her if she found a suitable mate. He dug his fingernails into the palms of his hands at the thought of her with a human. “I have to go. She’s waiting for me.”
“Don’t forget the condoms,” Cam shouted out. “Matter of fact, you might want to double up. With all your pent-up frustration, there’s bound to be an explosion.”
“Hilarious,” he replied, shutting the door behind him as he made his way toward his truck. Once inside, he slid his seat belt on and leaned back against the head cushion with his eyes closed. Filled with self-doubt, he worried that he wouldn’t be able to handle it. But he had to.
For the sake of everyone he loved, he had to find a way.
About the Author
Award-winning author, Stacey O'Neale, lives in Annapolis, Maryland. When she's not writing, she spends her time fangirling over books, blogging, watching fantasy television shows, cheering for the Baltimore Ravens, and hanging out with her husband and daughter.LinksBlog: http://staceyoneale.com/blog/Twitter: @StaceyONealeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/StaceyMONealeGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7765793.Stacey_O_NealeNewsletter: http://eepurl.com/M45yv
Her career in publishing started as a blogger-turned-publicist for two successful small publishers. Stacey writes young adult paranormal romance and adult science fiction romance. Her books always include swoon-worthy heroes, snarky heroines, and lots of kissing.
Stacey loves hearing from readers.
September 23, 2015
Author Thursday: Interview with Echo Ishii
Interview1. What flavor is your writing?
I write fantasy and SF. I love to play around with worlds and possibilities. On a more serious level, I write romance because I am curious about the nature of love-and how everyone is imperfect in some way yet wants to be loved. I include some humor to lighten things up though. :)
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
Actually, I don't follow a lot of actors. I like movies and certain characters but I can't say I would have a favorite to cast. Anyone who can do a handsome Elf. :)
3. What is your favorite scene in MR. RUMPEL AND MR. GRIMM?
My favorite scene? Wow. That's tough. Well, I worked hard on a chapter in which we meet Daniel Grimm's sister Giselle, and his cousin, Mary. We also get to meet Mary's partner, Alice, and see the tenderness between those two. Even though I had a wonderful time writing the whole story, I believe those scenes were my favorites because they showed that Daniel is a good soul underneath. He may seem handsome, frivolous, and clueless at times, but he's capable of deep devotion.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
I'm reading a good bit of SF Romance with a goal of making it through all the Prism Award winners. I blog at Smart Girls love Sci Fi and have the pleasure of interviewing lots of writers and their work. I also write the column SF Obscure discussing SF and paranormal shows of the past. It's a lot of fun and I hear about so many new shows from the comments people leave. Gotta love geeks.
I also write reviews for Sci Fi Romace Quarterly, so I hear about lots of writers there. My TBR is packed full.
I also have lots of nonfiction in my TBR file. I'm a history buff and currently reading a lot about dance, particularly ballet, and the American Revolution.
5. What are you working on now?
I have a completed M/M high fantasy romance making the submission rounds. And have been working steadily on an SFR about humans and AI relationships.
LinksYou can find out more about Echo Ishii at these links:
Website: http://echoishiizone.wordpress.comGroup site: http://smartgirlsscifi.wordpress.comTwitter: @mrsbookmarkPinterest: @mrsbookmarkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/echoishiiBook Blurb
Claude Rumpel is a goblin turned human, living a quiet life in his little repair shop at the edge of town. He is in sore need of money to fund his inventions, and a cure for his hands, which he must keep covered at all times.
Daniel Grimm is half elf, descended from a wealthy family but now down on his luck. He is determined to restore his family's prestige and has a daring plan to do so.
The gold thread that Claude spins, and Daniel's ability to sell it, seems a perfect plan for their goals. The casual sex is a pleasant bonus. But they are constantly thwarted from all sides: Daniel's dealing with a powerful witch, the opposing magic of their lineages, and Claude's dark goblin desires...
Mr. Rumpel and Mr. Grimm is available at Less Than Three Press and Amazon.
Excerpt“Say my name, Daniel Grimm.” Claude Rumpel straddled his conquest, holding the other man’s arms against the deep brown wooden backboard. The bed creaked loudly under the weight of both men.
“If you are any more aggressive, my little inventor, you’ll break this bed with both of us in it,” his lover said, without so much as a gasp.
It wouldn’t break; Claude knew that because he’d restored it himself. It was from the strongest wood of the original world trees; from the house of a long dead sorcerer. Nothing could break this bed. Not even the passion with which he and Daniel coupled.
Claude was dizzy with lust and on the verge of madness, wishing his stare could will his lover into compliance.
Daniel smirked, wisps of white blonde hair clinging to his face with sweat. He moved his body just slightly as if feigning a struggle. Claude wanted to be in charge, but his will was drowning in the sea of Daniel’s blue eyes.
“You can only hope to make me call your name, Mr. Rumpel,” Daniel said, straining against Claude’s grip. Daniel was shorter, thinner, and lighter than Claude but deceptively strong. He moved his head up and gave Claude a passionate, bruising kiss. Claude could feel the muscles in his neck strain, heard the sounds of his own moaning as Daniel’s tongue wrapped up in his firing the lust between them. Claude’s shoulders relaxed; his arms grew weak. Claude had foolishly cast himself in the role of the dominant, but it was clear.
He’d never win.
About the Author
I write fantasy and SF. I love to play around with worlds and possibilities. On a more serious level, I write romance because I am curious about the nature of love-and how everyone is imperfect in some way yet wants to be loved. I include some humor to lighten things up though. :)
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
Actually, I don't follow a lot of actors. I like movies and certain characters but I can't say I would have a favorite to cast. Anyone who can do a handsome Elf. :)
3. What is your favorite scene in MR. RUMPEL AND MR. GRIMM?
My favorite scene? Wow. That's tough. Well, I worked hard on a chapter in which we meet Daniel Grimm's sister Giselle, and his cousin, Mary. We also get to meet Mary's partner, Alice, and see the tenderness between those two. Even though I had a wonderful time writing the whole story, I believe those scenes were my favorites because they showed that Daniel is a good soul underneath. He may seem handsome, frivolous, and clueless at times, but he's capable of deep devotion.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
I'm reading a good bit of SF Romance with a goal of making it through all the Prism Award winners. I blog at Smart Girls love Sci Fi and have the pleasure of interviewing lots of writers and their work. I also write the column SF Obscure discussing SF and paranormal shows of the past. It's a lot of fun and I hear about so many new shows from the comments people leave. Gotta love geeks.
I also write reviews for Sci Fi Romace Quarterly, so I hear about lots of writers there. My TBR is packed full.I also have lots of nonfiction in my TBR file. I'm a history buff and currently reading a lot about dance, particularly ballet, and the American Revolution.
5. What are you working on now?
I have a completed M/M high fantasy romance making the submission rounds. And have been working steadily on an SFR about humans and AI relationships.
LinksYou can find out more about Echo Ishii at these links:
Website: http://echoishiizone.wordpress.comGroup site: http://smartgirlsscifi.wordpress.comTwitter: @mrsbookmarkPinterest: @mrsbookmarkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/echoishiiBook Blurb
Claude Rumpel is a goblin turned human, living a quiet life in his little repair shop at the edge of town. He is in sore need of money to fund his inventions, and a cure for his hands, which he must keep covered at all times.Daniel Grimm is half elf, descended from a wealthy family but now down on his luck. He is determined to restore his family's prestige and has a daring plan to do so.
The gold thread that Claude spins, and Daniel's ability to sell it, seems a perfect plan for their goals. The casual sex is a pleasant bonus. But they are constantly thwarted from all sides: Daniel's dealing with a powerful witch, the opposing magic of their lineages, and Claude's dark goblin desires...
Mr. Rumpel and Mr. Grimm is available at Less Than Three Press and Amazon.
Excerpt“Say my name, Daniel Grimm.” Claude Rumpel straddled his conquest, holding the other man’s arms against the deep brown wooden backboard. The bed creaked loudly under the weight of both men.
“If you are any more aggressive, my little inventor, you’ll break this bed with both of us in it,” his lover said, without so much as a gasp.
It wouldn’t break; Claude knew that because he’d restored it himself. It was from the strongest wood of the original world trees; from the house of a long dead sorcerer. Nothing could break this bed. Not even the passion with which he and Daniel coupled.
Claude was dizzy with lust and on the verge of madness, wishing his stare could will his lover into compliance.
Daniel smirked, wisps of white blonde hair clinging to his face with sweat. He moved his body just slightly as if feigning a struggle. Claude wanted to be in charge, but his will was drowning in the sea of Daniel’s blue eyes.
“You can only hope to make me call your name, Mr. Rumpel,” Daniel said, straining against Claude’s grip. Daniel was shorter, thinner, and lighter than Claude but deceptively strong. He moved his head up and gave Claude a passionate, bruising kiss. Claude could feel the muscles in his neck strain, heard the sounds of his own moaning as Daniel’s tongue wrapped up in his firing the lust between them. Claude’s shoulders relaxed; his arms grew weak. Claude had foolishly cast himself in the role of the dominant, but it was clear.
He’d never win.
About the Author
A long time science fiction fan, as well as a fan of all things fantasy and paranormal. I also write, blog, and comment about these things various spots online. I am a huge fan of classic sci fi movies, shows, and even radio dramas.
September 16, 2015
Author Thursday: Interview with Andrea R. Cooper
Interview1. What flavor is your writing?
Adventure. I have different flavors (genres) that I write: Fantasy, Paranormal, Historical, and romantic suspense, but they all have some type of adventure in them.
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
Amanda Seyfried as CrystalShalim Ortiz as KadeAnnie Wersching as RubyPaul Walker as PaulTyrese Gibson as Uncle GeorgeBoris Kodjoe as Uncle Gustin3. What is your favorite scene in Stolen Hearts?
I have many. Guess my favorite to write was when Crystal and her sister fake the flu to hide a gunshot wound.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
My TBR is a mountain range more than a pile. :)
I’m reading Cloaked by T.F. Walsh, Eternity by Tmonique Stephens, and Ecstasy in Darkness by Gena Showalter.
5. What are you working on now?
I have several writing projects going on:
Stolen Hearts – Book 2 (romantic suspense)Viking Blaze - Book 2 (historical romance)Fallen – Claimed Book 2 (paranormal romance)War of Darkness – Book 3 Legends of Oblivion (fantasy/paranormal romance)LinksYou can find out more about Andrea here:
FacebookTwitter: @AndreaRCooperWebsite: www.AndreaRCooper.comGoodreadsBlog: http://andrearcooperauthorblog.wordpress.com/Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/andrearcooper/Book Blurb
Crystal has spent her entire life training to be a thief in order to find evidence against the man who had her parents murdered. In her pursuit of justice she's had to give up her identity, her name, and any chance at love. When Crystal is forced on a blind date with the cop who is investigating her, she plays a dangerous game of hearts that could land her in a prison cell.
Kade is in search of a new life, after losing his partner. He's taken a new job, in a new city, and met a new girl. In order to keep his fresh start, he will have to catch an elusive thief targeting one of the largest corporations in the country. Desperate to forget the failures of his past, Kade has no intention of failing.
But secrets can’t be hidden forever.
Watch the Stolen Hearts book trailer.
Stolen Hearts is available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
About the Author
Adventure. I have different flavors (genres) that I write: Fantasy, Paranormal, Historical, and romantic suspense, but they all have some type of adventure in them.
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
Amanda Seyfried as CrystalShalim Ortiz as KadeAnnie Wersching as RubyPaul Walker as PaulTyrese Gibson as Uncle GeorgeBoris Kodjoe as Uncle Gustin3. What is your favorite scene in Stolen Hearts?
I have many. Guess my favorite to write was when Crystal and her sister fake the flu to hide a gunshot wound.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
My TBR is a mountain range more than a pile. :)
I’m reading Cloaked by T.F. Walsh, Eternity by Tmonique Stephens, and Ecstasy in Darkness by Gena Showalter.
5. What are you working on now?
I have several writing projects going on:
Stolen Hearts – Book 2 (romantic suspense)Viking Blaze - Book 2 (historical romance)Fallen – Claimed Book 2 (paranormal romance)War of Darkness – Book 3 Legends of Oblivion (fantasy/paranormal romance)LinksYou can find out more about Andrea here:
FacebookTwitter: @AndreaRCooperWebsite: www.AndreaRCooper.comGoodreadsBlog: http://andrearcooperauthorblog.wordpress.com/Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/andrearcooper/Book Blurb
Crystal has spent her entire life training to be a thief in order to find evidence against the man who had her parents murdered. In her pursuit of justice she's had to give up her identity, her name, and any chance at love. When Crystal is forced on a blind date with the cop who is investigating her, she plays a dangerous game of hearts that could land her in a prison cell.Kade is in search of a new life, after losing his partner. He's taken a new job, in a new city, and met a new girl. In order to keep his fresh start, he will have to catch an elusive thief targeting one of the largest corporations in the country. Desperate to forget the failures of his past, Kade has no intention of failing.
But secrets can’t be hidden forever.
Watch the Stolen Hearts book trailer.
Stolen Hearts is available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
About the Author
Andrea R. Cooper writes fantasy, paranormal, historical and romantic suspense.
Her favorite childhood memories revolved around creating vibrant characters for her friends, and then acting out their adventures. Inside her fantasy worlds of darkened forests, dragon-filled glades, and iced islands, nothing was banned. From the ethereal Elvin to the most maligned Vampires, all were welcome in her fictional realities, a stark contrast to her home, where the magical and mythical was forbidden.
Divorced and disillusioned of love and believing all the love songs and books exaggerated, she put aside her creativity for life. Many years past before characters, from the familiar to the freshly conceived, came to her again, but this time teasing at a new passion, the written word.
Gradually, her real life hero brought love and magic back into existence. During the time when her characters were getting reacquainted, the love of her life was showing her that true love never gives up and rekindles no matter how many times others attempt to extinguish it. Today, she is happily married with three children.
Andrea believes in the power of change and delighting in each moment. But most fervently, she believes in the magic of love and imagination again.
September 9, 2015
Author Thursday: Interview with Linda O'Connor
Interview1. What flavor is your writing?
My flavor is butterscotch ripple with pralines. A creamy base of everyone’s favorite vanilla, with a swirl of humor thrown in, and the occasional nugget of sexy.
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
I would cast Anna Kendrick or Jenna Coleman as Margo and Ryan Reynolds or Ryan Gosling as Trace.
3. What is your favorite scene in Perfectly Reasonable?
I have two favorite scenes – one when Margo and Trace are driving to a ski chalet with Jess, a friend of Trace’s. It’s a funny scene because Margo is jealous and feels a little out of place. I also like the banter between Margo and Trace, particularly when Margo asks Trace what car he drives. She believes you can tell a lot about a person by the color and make of their vehicle. He tells her he drives a beige station wagon! :D He doesn’t reveal his car to her until the end of the book.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
I’ve read some really great books lately – Love by the Book by Angela Scavone is very funny about a wife who is trying to rekindle romance with her husband by re-enacting scenes in romance novels. The opening scene in Radio Rose by Stephanie Berget had me laughing out loud. I really enjoyed Susan B. James’ time-travel romance, Time and Forever, and Annette Bower’s Woman of Substance was a quiet and thoughtful book, which opened my eyes to the subtle prejudice that overweight woman face. Peggy Jaeger has a new release coming out on Sept 23 called First Impressions, which I’m looking forward to reading.
5. What are you working on now?
I’m finishing the edits for Perfectly Planned, Book 3 in the Perfectly Series (are edits ever really done? :D) and I’m writing Book 3 of a hockey series.
LinksYou can find out more about Linda at these links:
Website: http://www.lindaoconnor.netTwitter: @lindaoconnor98Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LindaOConnorAuthorAmazon Author page: http://www.amazon.com/Linda-OConnor/e/B00S7CNLEABook Blurb
Perfectly Reasonable (Book 2 Perfectly Series)
Love what you do and do what you love. Sounds perfectly reasonable, but chances are, you’ll find your passion in the last place you look . . .
Margo MacMillan finished medical school, but in the process, her self-confidence and self-esteem took a beating. So for the sake of self-preservation, she’s stepped away from medicine to re-group. In the meantime, painting soothes her soul and pays the bills.
Trace Bennett set his sights on a medical degree and has to prepare the perfect medical school application. His big plan is to paint his condo for a little feng shui divine luck. When Margo shows up to paint, he realizes he’s found exactly what he’s looking for. He just has to convince Margo to share more than the art of medicine.
She’s got it. He wants it. It’s Perfectly Reasonable.
Perfectly Reasonable is available at Amazon.
About the Author
My flavor is butterscotch ripple with pralines. A creamy base of everyone’s favorite vanilla, with a swirl of humor thrown in, and the occasional nugget of sexy.
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
I would cast Anna Kendrick or Jenna Coleman as Margo and Ryan Reynolds or Ryan Gosling as Trace.
3. What is your favorite scene in Perfectly Reasonable?
I have two favorite scenes – one when Margo and Trace are driving to a ski chalet with Jess, a friend of Trace’s. It’s a funny scene because Margo is jealous and feels a little out of place. I also like the banter between Margo and Trace, particularly when Margo asks Trace what car he drives. She believes you can tell a lot about a person by the color and make of their vehicle. He tells her he drives a beige station wagon! :D He doesn’t reveal his car to her until the end of the book.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
I’ve read some really great books lately – Love by the Book by Angela Scavone is very funny about a wife who is trying to rekindle romance with her husband by re-enacting scenes in romance novels. The opening scene in Radio Rose by Stephanie Berget had me laughing out loud. I really enjoyed Susan B. James’ time-travel romance, Time and Forever, and Annette Bower’s Woman of Substance was a quiet and thoughtful book, which opened my eyes to the subtle prejudice that overweight woman face. Peggy Jaeger has a new release coming out on Sept 23 called First Impressions, which I’m looking forward to reading.
5. What are you working on now?
I’m finishing the edits for Perfectly Planned, Book 3 in the Perfectly Series (are edits ever really done? :D) and I’m writing Book 3 of a hockey series.
LinksYou can find out more about Linda at these links:
Website: http://www.lindaoconnor.netTwitter: @lindaoconnor98Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LindaOConnorAuthorAmazon Author page: http://www.amazon.com/Linda-OConnor/e/B00S7CNLEABook Blurb
Perfectly Reasonable (Book 2 Perfectly Series)Love what you do and do what you love. Sounds perfectly reasonable, but chances are, you’ll find your passion in the last place you look . . .
Margo MacMillan finished medical school, but in the process, her self-confidence and self-esteem took a beating. So for the sake of self-preservation, she’s stepped away from medicine to re-group. In the meantime, painting soothes her soul and pays the bills.
Trace Bennett set his sights on a medical degree and has to prepare the perfect medical school application. His big plan is to paint his condo for a little feng shui divine luck. When Margo shows up to paint, he realizes he’s found exactly what he’s looking for. He just has to convince Margo to share more than the art of medicine.
She’s got it. He wants it. It’s Perfectly Reasonable.
Perfectly Reasonable is available at Amazon.
About the Author
Linda has been writing romance novels for four years and thanks Debby Gilbert at Soul Mate Publishing for the ultimate encouragement to her writing - with the leap to publishing. She has many titles including Doctor, Mom, and proud Canadian, but “Linda O'Connor - hereinafter called the Author” is one of the sweetest.
Contemporary romantic comedies are her favorite novels to read and write. Linda balances writing with her work as a physician at an Urgent Care Clinic and being a mom to three sons (luckily grown and capable of throwing together a decent meal, in a pinch). She also likes to keep active and cycle, cross-country ski, skate, walk with her husband, or dance every day.
Laugh every day. Love every minute.
September 6, 2015
Book Tour: Interview with Nina Croft
Interview1. What flavor is your writing?A little bit bitter, then a whole lot of sweet. One of the reasons I write romance is I love a happy ending, but I also like my characters to suffer before they get there.
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
Scarlett Johansson for Daisy and Alex Skarsgard for Fergal.
3. What is your favorite scene in Blood and Metal?
I think my favorite scene is after Daisy and Fergal first try and get it together—not very successfully. Perhaps because it was the first real sign that there was more between them than just sex. Here’s a snippet:
Daisy crouched on all fours, head hanging like an exhausted dog as she fought the urge to throw up again. But there was nothing left. The contents of her stomach were splattered all over the floor and all over Fergal. The scene looked like something from a slaughterhouse.4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
He was still on the ground but up on his elbows, regarding her with a wary expression. Who could blame him? She’d lost it completely. If he’d been an ordinary human, he’d be dead.
It had felt so good. As she’d relaxed into the feelings, eased up on her control, something had woken inside her. But by the time she’d recognized the danger, it was too late and the darkness had taken her over, filled her.
Only the foul taste of Fergal’s blood had brought her back.
She was naked, a pulse throbbing between her legs.
Crap. Bet he thinks I’m sexy now. Not.
Finally, she sat back on her heels, forced herself to look into Fergal’s face. “Sorry.” He snorted but didn’t speak, and she gave a small shrug. “You probably have naked girls puking on you all the time.”
“It’s my technique.”
He looked so serious, lying in his blood and vomit-spattered uniform, that a giggle rose up inside her.
His eyes widened as she laughed, but a grin curved his lips, followed by a look of resignation. “Well, that didn’t go as planned. You know how long it’s been since I was with a naked woman? Too fucking long. Shit, my dick’s still hard even after all that.”
She glanced down at his groin. Definitely still hard. God, she wanted that erection. Life—or she supposed death in her case—sucked sometimes.
I’m re-reading Game of Thrones, because I loved it the first time, and I’m also reading a historical novel set in WW11, The Nightingale, by Kristin Hannah, and finally, a how-to-write book, Spellbinding Sentences, by Barbara Baig.
5. What are you working on now?
I’m writing book 6 in my Dark Desires series, Flying through Fire. And I’m editing a contemporary romance, Her Fantasy Husband, book 2 in my Things to do before you Die series (book 1, His Fantasy Girl releases in October.)
Think Fast QuestionsCoffee or tea?
Tea, then coffee, then more coffee.
Cats or dogs?
Dogs, if I have to choose, but I have cats as well.
Series or standalone?
Series – I love that moment when you finish book one and realize there’s a whole load more out there.
Winter or summer?
Definitely summer.
Print or e-book?
ebook – I love long books and ebooks are so much easier to hold up for long periods. Plus, I live a long way from the nearest bookshop, and I hate waiting. I can buy ebooks at the click of a button.
Giveawaya Rafflecopter giveaway
Book Blurb
Copilot of the Blood Hunter, Daisy is a newly-turned vampire, and she's hungry. Really hungry and it’s interfering with her plans for revenge. Unfortunately, the only thing that can distract her from said hunger is sex...which is a problem when she can barely refrain from draining any man dry within moments. But old flame Fergal Cain might just be the sexy-assed solution to her problem.Part human, part cyborg, and with a poison coursing through his system, Fergal's running out of time to find the scientist who has the cure. Unfortunately for him, the misfit crew of the Blood Hunter put a serious kink in his plans. And if the poison doesn't kill him, the hot little vamp he can't resist might do the honors herself...
Blood and Metal is available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
About the Author
Nina Croft grew up in the north of England. After training as an accountant, she spent four years working as a volunteer in Zambia, which left her with a love of the sun and a dislike of nine-to-five work. She then spent a number of years mixing travel (whenever possible) with work (whenever necessary) but has now settled down to a life of writing and picking almonds on a remote farm in the mountains of southern Spain.LinksWebsite: http://www.ninacroft.com/Twitter: @Nina_CroftFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nina.Croft.authorFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NinaCroft.WriterNewsletter: http://eepurl.com/rZ5rz
Nina writes all types of romance, often mixed with elements of the paranormal and science fiction.
September 2, 2015
Author Thursday: Interview with Rachel Leigh Smith
Interview1. What flavor is your writing?
This is a tough one. It’s hopeful, but at the same time the happy endings are not easily reached or held on to. It takes three books for A’yen and Fae to get their happily ever after. I do have a tendency to get dark, but it’s never so dark that you lose all light. Ultimately, everything I write is about the power of sacrificial love and redemption.
It’s also hero-centric. He’s always the main character. If you’re searching for a romance all about him, check me out!
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
A’yen would be Tom Weston-Jones. I met the actor in Copper on BBC America the same summer I was writing this book, and as soon as detective Kevin Corcoran opened his mouth I knew he was A’yen. Fae would be Zooey Deschanel, not in the way she acts but in the way she looks.
The other major character in the novel is a man named Na’var, and he’d be played be Eion Bailey, aka August Booth in Once Upon A Time.
3. What is your favorite scene in My Name Is A’yen?
There are so many! But I’m partial to the scene where A’yen teaches Fae how to swim. She grew up on a desert planet, and he grew up on a planet known for its lakes and oceans. I also love their first kiss, which you can read part of at the end of the interview.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
Atlantis Rising by Alyssa Day is on the go right now, and I have a historical romance called Valley of the Shadow up next.
5. What are you working on now?
I’m neck-deep in edits for A’yen’s Legacy #4, Freedom’s Embrace. It’ll be out in October, and is a good entry point to the series. The first three are best read in order, but they’re not necessary to enjoy #4.
LinksYou can find out more about Rachel Leigh Smith at these links:
Website: www.rachelleighsmith.comTwitter: @rachelleighgeekFacebook: www.facebook.com/rachelleighsmithauthorNewsletter: tiny.cc/rsnewsBook Blurb
They've taken everything from him. Except his name.
The Loks Mé have been slaves for so long, freedom is a distant myth A'yen Mesu no longer believes. A year in holding, because of his master's murder, has sucked the life from him. Archaeologist Farran Hart buys him to protect her on an expedition to the Rim, the last unexplored quadrant of the galaxy.
Farran believes the Loks Mé once lived on the Rim and is determined to prove it. And win A'yen's trust. But she's a breeder's daughter and can't be trusted.
Hidden rooms, information caches, and messages from a long-dead king change A'yen's mind about her importance. When she's threatened, he offers himself in exchange, and lands on the Breeders Association's radar. The truth must be told. Even if it costs him his heart.
My Name is A'yen is available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, ExcerptHow had he survived fifteen months without feeling like this? Life coursed through him again, breaking open the places he’d sealed off, flooding his soul with sunshine. Her taste was altogether different from Master’s, but oh so addictive. Complex and sweet. It’d take years to identify all the components. Years he wanted to claim for him alone. No one else could touch her now.
The feel of her body pressed against him pulled him deeper and deeper. So soft and curvy. So much to explore. He released her mouth, followed her jaw to her ear, then down her neck. A soft moan feathered the side of his face.
One hand still on the back of her neck, he pressed his forehead to hers. Their breathing, quick and heavy, meshed in a duet. No doubt now. She owned him. Completely. Totally. And he didn’t want it any other way.
“Wow.”
Her words started a chuckle deep in his chest. “This is only the beginning, Fae.”
She pressed a sweet, chaste kiss to his cheek. “You can rock my world any time you want.”
“Noted.” He forced his arms to release her. For the space of the kiss Reston’s abuse had disappeared from his memory. Without her touch it came crashing back. But now he had another memory to pull up when the pain drove him to tears. Pain she couldn’t know about. Now more than ever. Something this precious, this wonderful, deserved every level of protection he could dream up.
The whispers came back. Whispered screams. Such an odd thing to hear. And so many of them. “I don’t want to know what I’m hearing.”
Fae gripped his hand. “I don’t either. But we have to find out.” Still holding his hand, she stood. He stared at her, at her hand holding his, offering him a lifeline he desperately needed.
A quick kiss to her fingers and he joined her. “You’re the expert. How do we do this?”
“We’re going to start on that side of the stairs.” She indicated the right with her light. “And follow the wall. Can you keep track of how big around it is?”
“Yup.” He didn’t let go of her hand. Didn’t want to. Holding her like this completed a part of him he hadn’t known existed.
“How do you do it?”
“I just do.” He released her fingers long enough to pick his flashlight up and put himself between her and any possible danger. A silly thing, considering they were the first people to enter this room in two thousand years. Silly or not, he was here to protect her. Even from his own demons.
About the Author
This is a tough one. It’s hopeful, but at the same time the happy endings are not easily reached or held on to. It takes three books for A’yen and Fae to get their happily ever after. I do have a tendency to get dark, but it’s never so dark that you lose all light. Ultimately, everything I write is about the power of sacrificial love and redemption.
It’s also hero-centric. He’s always the main character. If you’re searching for a romance all about him, check me out!
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
A’yen would be Tom Weston-Jones. I met the actor in Copper on BBC America the same summer I was writing this book, and as soon as detective Kevin Corcoran opened his mouth I knew he was A’yen. Fae would be Zooey Deschanel, not in the way she acts but in the way she looks.
The other major character in the novel is a man named Na’var, and he’d be played be Eion Bailey, aka August Booth in Once Upon A Time.
3. What is your favorite scene in My Name Is A’yen?
There are so many! But I’m partial to the scene where A’yen teaches Fae how to swim. She grew up on a desert planet, and he grew up on a planet known for its lakes and oceans. I also love their first kiss, which you can read part of at the end of the interview.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
Atlantis Rising by Alyssa Day is on the go right now, and I have a historical romance called Valley of the Shadow up next.
5. What are you working on now?
I’m neck-deep in edits for A’yen’s Legacy #4, Freedom’s Embrace. It’ll be out in October, and is a good entry point to the series. The first three are best read in order, but they’re not necessary to enjoy #4.
LinksYou can find out more about Rachel Leigh Smith at these links:
Website: www.rachelleighsmith.comTwitter: @rachelleighgeekFacebook: www.facebook.com/rachelleighsmithauthorNewsletter: tiny.cc/rsnewsBook Blurb
They've taken everything from him. Except his name.The Loks Mé have been slaves for so long, freedom is a distant myth A'yen Mesu no longer believes. A year in holding, because of his master's murder, has sucked the life from him. Archaeologist Farran Hart buys him to protect her on an expedition to the Rim, the last unexplored quadrant of the galaxy.
Farran believes the Loks Mé once lived on the Rim and is determined to prove it. And win A'yen's trust. But she's a breeder's daughter and can't be trusted.
Hidden rooms, information caches, and messages from a long-dead king change A'yen's mind about her importance. When she's threatened, he offers himself in exchange, and lands on the Breeders Association's radar. The truth must be told. Even if it costs him his heart.
My Name is A'yen is available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, ExcerptHow had he survived fifteen months without feeling like this? Life coursed through him again, breaking open the places he’d sealed off, flooding his soul with sunshine. Her taste was altogether different from Master’s, but oh so addictive. Complex and sweet. It’d take years to identify all the components. Years he wanted to claim for him alone. No one else could touch her now.
The feel of her body pressed against him pulled him deeper and deeper. So soft and curvy. So much to explore. He released her mouth, followed her jaw to her ear, then down her neck. A soft moan feathered the side of his face.
One hand still on the back of her neck, he pressed his forehead to hers. Their breathing, quick and heavy, meshed in a duet. No doubt now. She owned him. Completely. Totally. And he didn’t want it any other way.
“Wow.”
Her words started a chuckle deep in his chest. “This is only the beginning, Fae.”
She pressed a sweet, chaste kiss to his cheek. “You can rock my world any time you want.”
“Noted.” He forced his arms to release her. For the space of the kiss Reston’s abuse had disappeared from his memory. Without her touch it came crashing back. But now he had another memory to pull up when the pain drove him to tears. Pain she couldn’t know about. Now more than ever. Something this precious, this wonderful, deserved every level of protection he could dream up.
The whispers came back. Whispered screams. Such an odd thing to hear. And so many of them. “I don’t want to know what I’m hearing.”
Fae gripped his hand. “I don’t either. But we have to find out.” Still holding his hand, she stood. He stared at her, at her hand holding his, offering him a lifeline he desperately needed.
A quick kiss to her fingers and he joined her. “You’re the expert. How do we do this?”
“We’re going to start on that side of the stairs.” She indicated the right with her light. “And follow the wall. Can you keep track of how big around it is?”
“Yup.” He didn’t let go of her hand. Didn’t want to. Holding her like this completed a part of him he hadn’t known existed.
“How do you do it?”
“I just do.” He released her fingers long enough to pick his flashlight up and put himself between her and any possible danger. A silly thing, considering they were the first people to enter this room in two thousand years. Silly or not, he was here to protect her. Even from his own demons.
About the Author
Rachel Leigh Smith writes romance for the hero lover. She lives in central Louisiana with her family and a half-crazed calico. When not writing, which isn't often, she's hanging with her family, doing counted cross-stitch, or yakking about life, the universe, and everything with her besties. There may also be Netflix binging...
August 24, 2015
Book Tour Tuesday: Spotlight on Healing Fire by Sean Michael
GiveawaySean Michael is giving away 2 eBooks from any ARe Books imprint/series as part of this tour!a Rafflecopter giveaway
Book Blurb
What will it take for a dragon prince to defy his father and fly on his own?Prince Jules, the least favorite of the Dragon King's children, lives simply, banished to his rooms and the amazing adventures found in his books. He has never left the palace or shifted into his dragon form…he's never done anything.
Dragon shifter Lem is assigned to Jules as the prince's new bodyguard, and is determined to keep Jules safe from the Graithen, who killed the prince’s previous guardian. Lem grows to hate how the King hides Jules away, and longs to show him how to fly. His love for Jules also grows but it is forbidden, like so much in Jules' life.
When the Graithen attack again, though, everything changes.
Healing Fire is now available at ARe.
ExcerptLem was worried about the prince. Jules didn’t sleep. He didn’t eat. He didn’t do anything but lie in his bed. Lem knew how to defend Jules from outside threats. He did not know how to defend the prince from himself.
The little prince was never cruel. He barely spoke, he barely moved. Lem had been told that Jules used to spend most of his time reading, staying in his suite with his bodyguard Mabon.
Lem, of course, knew Mabon—all the bodyguards knew each other by sight—but not very well. The strong dragon had been older and had had more training than Lem currently did when he’d been called to the prince’s side almost two hundred years ago.
Lem knew they were very big wings indeed that he had to fill. He also knew, without question, that the blame would fall upon him should Jules die. And rightly so. He was the prince’s protector. He just wasn’t sure how he could protect Jules from himself, for surely that was what the danger was at this time. It made Lem think. What would Mabon have done?
There was a private courtyard off of Jules’ rooms, meant solely for the prince’s pleasure. Lem knew that no one else was allowed back there, not even gardeners. The area was completely cut off from the rest of the castle by high, windowless walls, and the only entrance was through the door in Jules’ quarters. Perhaps a little air, a change of scenery would be good.
Decided, Lem went to Jules, the prince still curled up in his nest as he had been earlier this morning. And yesterday, and the day before that, and the week before that, since Lem had been here.
“Your Highness, let’s go out to the courtyard. I can hear the fountain, but have never seen it.”
Jules looked at him for a moment, the green eyes beautiful, if so sad. One slender hand waved as if to say, “go.”
Grunting, Lem girded his loins against his own training, which said he didn’t do this, that he was never to touch the prince if he could avoid it. He bent, picking Jules right up out of his nest.
“What?” Jules sputtered.
Dragons needed sustenance, sunlight. They needed it. Lem clung to that thought and stayed the course.
“We are going to the courtyard.”
He didn’t put Jules down. The prince would probably curl back up in his nest, or possibly find a nook or cranny to hide in, and Lem was not having that. He was taking his prince into the sunlight, even if it meant he was disobeying his prince’s wishes. His job was to protect and defend.
When Lem pushed through the door into the courtyard, he gasped as the sunshine touched his skin. It had been days. Days. He could feel it, energizing him, warming him. He had been so busy worrying about the prince, he’d forgotten his own need for the warm touch.
He wanted to close his eyes and bask, but he didn’t. As private as this space was, that didn’t mean impenetrable. There was still the air, and he was no longer guarding the door from Jules’ quarters. So he kept his eyes open, stayed aware, and walked toward the lovely fountain that had pride of place in the center of the surprisingly roomy courtyard.
“Can you feel the sunshine in your bones?” he asked even though he knew Jules could, the dull sheen on Jules’ skin already beginning to warm, to take on a hint of vitality.
It was obvious to Lem that he had done the right thing. Master Anselle had always told him to follow his gut. Worried as it had made him, he had. He sent a silent prayer of thanks and love to his teacher. Every lesson, no matter how strange or hard or simple, was proving to be useful in the guardianship of his charge.
Prince Jules lifted his face to the sun, the motion simple, instinctual. It gave Lem his first real look at the prince’s face. Unlike the thickset, heavy dragons that made up Lem’s caste, Jules had the delicate, gentle features of the ruling class. Perhaps the most beautiful features Lem had ever seen. The sadness in them did not dim Jules’ beauty in the least.
Lem let himself memorize the fine cheekbones, the long, slender nose. He imagined Jules’ dragon would be quite small, but perfectly formed. He’d never seen a royal in dragon form, but had heard that their scales were impossibly beautiful.
Moving to the fountain, he took in the form of the tree that was in the center of it, water pouring from its boughs. Such wonderful magic!
“My mother formed this for me.” Words, actual words, offered freely. This was indeed a magical spot.
“It’s beautiful. Is the water healing?” Lem asked as he sat on the bench that wound its way around the fountain.
Jules nodded. “But it cannot heal me.”
About the Author
Sean Michael, often referred to as "Space Cowboy" and "Gangsta of Love" while still striving for the moniker of "Maurice," spends his days surfing, smutting, organizing his immense gourd collection and fantasizing about one day retiring on a small secluded island peopled entirely by horseshoe crabs. While collecting vast amounts of vintage gay pulp novels and mood rings, Sean whiles away the hours between dropping the f-bomb and pursuing the Kama Sutra by channeling the long lost spirit of John Wayne and singing along with the soundtrack to "Chicago." A long-time writer of complicated haiku, currently Sean is attempting to learn the advanced arts of plate spinning and soap carving sex toys.LinksYou can find out more about Sean Michael at these links:
Barring any of that? He'll stick with writing his stories, thanks, and rubbing pretty bodies together to see if they spark.
Website: www.SeanMichaelWrites.comTwitter: @seanmichael09Blog: http://seanmichaelwrites.blogspot.ca/Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/452671.Sean_Michael
August 12, 2015
Author Thursday: Interview with L. D. Rose
Interview1. What flavor is your writing?
Dark! My writing career started out in horror (at the tender age of 10, ha) and soon I threw romance into the mix (by high school :P). I love the paranormal, so naturally I slipped into PNR and urban fantasy once I started to take writing seriously (during medical school). I’m a physician during the day, so I definitely see my share of craziness and sometimes it leaks into my novels. My latest release is firmly in the dark PNR category with elements of horror.
If I had to literally choose a flavor, I’d go with dark chocolate—a little bitter, a little sweet, both bad and good for you. ;) Either that or a tall shot of Johnny Walker double black!
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
Ali Larter would definitely play Valerie—tough, blonde, and takes no shit. I’m still undecided on Blaze, but readers have told me they picture Dwayne Johnson or Vin Diesel. I’m happy with either of those. ;)
3. What is your favorite scene in RELEASING THE DEMONS?
There are so many I love, but I tend to like the tender moments between Blaze and Val. In the midst of all the darkness surrounding them, they can still find peace in one another. There’s also one particular scene that stands out where Blaze exacts his revenge on one of his enemies in an abandoned train car. That scene was particularly sweet to write!
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
I’m reading two books now, a contemporary romance by Sharon Struth called SHARE THE MOON and an urban fantasy by Diana Rowland called MARK OF THE DEMON. I’m enjoying both immensely so far and I switch between the two depending on my mood.
5. What are you working on now?
I just finished the first draft of BLACK BULLET, the second book in the Order of the Senary series, and it’s currently undergoing revision. The third book in the series, BEAUTIFUL LIAR, is also underway. I actually wrote a good chunk of the third book before the second, but I decided it fit best as lucky number three. They’re all so very different, with BLACK BULLET approaching even darker subject matter than RELEASING THE DEMONS while BEAUTIFUL LIAR borders on erotica and a bone-deep desire for something you can’t have.
LinksYou can find out more about L.D. Rose at these links:
Website: writerldrose.comTwitter: @ld_roseFacebook: facebook.com/writerldrose and facebook.com/ldroseauthorpagePinterest: pinterest.com/writerldroseTumblr: writerdoc.tumblr.comBook Blurb
Blaze Knight has been through hell and back, but the nightmares aren't over yet.
Five years after Blaze was maimed by Cyrus Chimola, a powerful vampire with a penchant for torture, he’s still trying to pick up the pieces of his shattered life. As a genetically engineered mercenary with the ability to bend fire to his will and to see in infrared, Blaze’s mission is to protect what’s left of humanity. When Chimola and his crew return to the Bronx gunning for Blaze’s blood, Blaze is forced to face the demons of his past. Hell-bent on revenge, he seeks the help of Valerie Medeiros, an NYPD detective who manages to steal his heart and save his life in more ways than one.
Motivated by her sister’s gruesome death, Valerie has made it her life’s goal to bury every vampire in the ground where they belong. When she brings in Blaze Knight for suspected murder, she discovers he’s not only innocent, he isn't a man at all—he's a half-vampire hybrid working with a band of brothers for the U.S. military. Valerie has a hard time trusting anything with fangs, yet she quickly falls headlong into Blaze’s life, a life full of darkness and horror she can’t even begin to fathom. The bodies are stacking up, but Valerie can’t seem to let go of this hybrid, a beautiful monster filled with pain, rage, and passion unlike anything she's ever known.
In a world where the line between good and evil is blurred, Blaze and Valerie will find danger at every turn, risking everything they’ve come to know and love, including one another.
Releasing the Demons is available at Amazon.
ExcerptValerie kept her eyes locked on the glass windows covered with cigarette prices and beer ads, watching Tattoos pay up at the cash register. Once she reached the side of the building, she pressed her back against the warm brick wall. Sweat trickled down her spine and she wiped her clammy hands on her jeans before she drew her Beretta. She listened for the bell hanging above the store entrance, and when it jingled, she peered past the corner of the building.
There he is.
Holding a pack of Marlboros, he slipped it into his back pocket along with a silver money clip. He walked back toward the Chevelle, scanning the area one more time as he stepped off the concrete elevation.
This is it. Do it. Now!
With her gun pointed at the ground in a two-handed grip, Valerie pushed off the wall and turned the corner, staring at his back. Her voice was loud and clear as she called, “Blaze.”
He stopped and pivoted around. A fleeting expression of confusion filled his face, but it quickly turned into shock as she lifted her gun and shouted, “Freeze, NYPD!”
Gasps and shouts resounded as everyone turned their attention on her. Some people ducked while others gawked, and she wished they would just climb into their cars and get the hell out of here. She did her best to ignore them, keeping her focus solely on the man before her as she carefully approached him. He didn’t make any sudden movements, his brow furrowing as a muscle in his jaw ticked. Valerie flashed her badge to prove she wasn’t bullshitting. “Get your hands in the air where I can see them.”
He slowly lifted his arms and spread his hands out wide. Then spoke with a voice like black gravel, matching his appearance all too well. “What’s going on here?”
She closed in on him, his presence becoming more and more overwhelming. Sirens resonated in the distance, sending a trickle of relief through her. He didn’t appear armed but that didn’t mean jack.
“Turn around and get down on the ground. Now!”
Anger consumed the confusion on his face but he surprisingly complied, giving her his back again before dropping to his knees with his hands above his head.
She kept her gun aimed and her mind submerged in the well of her calm. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d arrested someone; she usually shot to kill. “Cross your ankles,” she ordered, and he did so, crossing his booted ankles as if he’d done this before.
Valerie placed her foot in the space between his legs, so if he attempted to stand he would end up flat on his face. People finally backed away as she removed her tungsten carbide handcuffs from her utility belt, gripping the Beretta with knuckles white as chalk. Tungsten carbide was the only metal strong enough to hold a vampire, but she used it on everyone, regardless of species. Two New Rochelle cruisers whipped into the gas station, blocking off both exits before four officers leapt out of their respective vehicles. Valerie put the gun up and cuffed Blaze’s dominant hand, swinging his right arm around before latching onto the left.
He didn’t put up a fight. He didn’t even flinch. But he balled his big hands into fists at his back. She read him his Miranda rights as she cinched the cuffs around both of his thick wrists.
“You have the right to remain silent—”
“I have the right to know what’s going on,” he growled, showing her his savage profile.
“Anything you do or say can be used against you in a court of law.”
“What are you arresting me for?”
“You have the right to an attorney.”
“Fuck the attorney—”
She yanked the chain of his cuffs, bringing his solid body against her as the faint scent of cologne tickled her nose. She leaned into his ear, anger flashing through her as she thought of bloody grass and charred flesh.
“You’re under arrest for the murder of Elena Delgado. Now get the fuck up and move.”
About the Author
Dark! My writing career started out in horror (at the tender age of 10, ha) and soon I threw romance into the mix (by high school :P). I love the paranormal, so naturally I slipped into PNR and urban fantasy once I started to take writing seriously (during medical school). I’m a physician during the day, so I definitely see my share of craziness and sometimes it leaks into my novels. My latest release is firmly in the dark PNR category with elements of horror.
If I had to literally choose a flavor, I’d go with dark chocolate—a little bitter, a little sweet, both bad and good for you. ;) Either that or a tall shot of Johnny Walker double black!
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
Ali Larter would definitely play Valerie—tough, blonde, and takes no shit. I’m still undecided on Blaze, but readers have told me they picture Dwayne Johnson or Vin Diesel. I’m happy with either of those. ;)
3. What is your favorite scene in RELEASING THE DEMONS?
There are so many I love, but I tend to like the tender moments between Blaze and Val. In the midst of all the darkness surrounding them, they can still find peace in one another. There’s also one particular scene that stands out where Blaze exacts his revenge on one of his enemies in an abandoned train car. That scene was particularly sweet to write!
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
I’m reading two books now, a contemporary romance by Sharon Struth called SHARE THE MOON and an urban fantasy by Diana Rowland called MARK OF THE DEMON. I’m enjoying both immensely so far and I switch between the two depending on my mood.
5. What are you working on now?
I just finished the first draft of BLACK BULLET, the second book in the Order of the Senary series, and it’s currently undergoing revision. The third book in the series, BEAUTIFUL LIAR, is also underway. I actually wrote a good chunk of the third book before the second, but I decided it fit best as lucky number three. They’re all so very different, with BLACK BULLET approaching even darker subject matter than RELEASING THE DEMONS while BEAUTIFUL LIAR borders on erotica and a bone-deep desire for something you can’t have.
LinksYou can find out more about L.D. Rose at these links:
Website: writerldrose.comTwitter: @ld_roseFacebook: facebook.com/writerldrose and facebook.com/ldroseauthorpagePinterest: pinterest.com/writerldroseTumblr: writerdoc.tumblr.comBook Blurb
Blaze Knight has been through hell and back, but the nightmares aren't over yet.Five years after Blaze was maimed by Cyrus Chimola, a powerful vampire with a penchant for torture, he’s still trying to pick up the pieces of his shattered life. As a genetically engineered mercenary with the ability to bend fire to his will and to see in infrared, Blaze’s mission is to protect what’s left of humanity. When Chimola and his crew return to the Bronx gunning for Blaze’s blood, Blaze is forced to face the demons of his past. Hell-bent on revenge, he seeks the help of Valerie Medeiros, an NYPD detective who manages to steal his heart and save his life in more ways than one.
Motivated by her sister’s gruesome death, Valerie has made it her life’s goal to bury every vampire in the ground where they belong. When she brings in Blaze Knight for suspected murder, she discovers he’s not only innocent, he isn't a man at all—he's a half-vampire hybrid working with a band of brothers for the U.S. military. Valerie has a hard time trusting anything with fangs, yet she quickly falls headlong into Blaze’s life, a life full of darkness and horror she can’t even begin to fathom. The bodies are stacking up, but Valerie can’t seem to let go of this hybrid, a beautiful monster filled with pain, rage, and passion unlike anything she's ever known.
In a world where the line between good and evil is blurred, Blaze and Valerie will find danger at every turn, risking everything they’ve come to know and love, including one another.
Releasing the Demons is available at Amazon.
ExcerptValerie kept her eyes locked on the glass windows covered with cigarette prices and beer ads, watching Tattoos pay up at the cash register. Once she reached the side of the building, she pressed her back against the warm brick wall. Sweat trickled down her spine and she wiped her clammy hands on her jeans before she drew her Beretta. She listened for the bell hanging above the store entrance, and when it jingled, she peered past the corner of the building.
There he is.
Holding a pack of Marlboros, he slipped it into his back pocket along with a silver money clip. He walked back toward the Chevelle, scanning the area one more time as he stepped off the concrete elevation.
This is it. Do it. Now!
With her gun pointed at the ground in a two-handed grip, Valerie pushed off the wall and turned the corner, staring at his back. Her voice was loud and clear as she called, “Blaze.”
He stopped and pivoted around. A fleeting expression of confusion filled his face, but it quickly turned into shock as she lifted her gun and shouted, “Freeze, NYPD!”
Gasps and shouts resounded as everyone turned their attention on her. Some people ducked while others gawked, and she wished they would just climb into their cars and get the hell out of here. She did her best to ignore them, keeping her focus solely on the man before her as she carefully approached him. He didn’t make any sudden movements, his brow furrowing as a muscle in his jaw ticked. Valerie flashed her badge to prove she wasn’t bullshitting. “Get your hands in the air where I can see them.”
He slowly lifted his arms and spread his hands out wide. Then spoke with a voice like black gravel, matching his appearance all too well. “What’s going on here?”
She closed in on him, his presence becoming more and more overwhelming. Sirens resonated in the distance, sending a trickle of relief through her. He didn’t appear armed but that didn’t mean jack.
“Turn around and get down on the ground. Now!”
Anger consumed the confusion on his face but he surprisingly complied, giving her his back again before dropping to his knees with his hands above his head.
She kept her gun aimed and her mind submerged in the well of her calm. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d arrested someone; she usually shot to kill. “Cross your ankles,” she ordered, and he did so, crossing his booted ankles as if he’d done this before.
Valerie placed her foot in the space between his legs, so if he attempted to stand he would end up flat on his face. People finally backed away as she removed her tungsten carbide handcuffs from her utility belt, gripping the Beretta with knuckles white as chalk. Tungsten carbide was the only metal strong enough to hold a vampire, but she used it on everyone, regardless of species. Two New Rochelle cruisers whipped into the gas station, blocking off both exits before four officers leapt out of their respective vehicles. Valerie put the gun up and cuffed Blaze’s dominant hand, swinging his right arm around before latching onto the left.
He didn’t put up a fight. He didn’t even flinch. But he balled his big hands into fists at his back. She read him his Miranda rights as she cinched the cuffs around both of his thick wrists.
“You have the right to remain silent—”
“I have the right to know what’s going on,” he growled, showing her his savage profile.
“Anything you do or say can be used against you in a court of law.”
“What are you arresting me for?”
“You have the right to an attorney.”
“Fuck the attorney—”
She yanked the chain of his cuffs, bringing his solid body against her as the faint scent of cologne tickled her nose. She leaned into his ear, anger flashing through her as she thought of bloody grass and charred flesh.
“You’re under arrest for the murder of Elena Delgado. Now get the fuck up and move.”
About the Author
L.D. Rose is a neurotic physician by day, crazed writer by night, and all around wannabe superhero. She writes paranormal romance and urban fantasy, but she’s been known to delve into horror, sci-fi, and medical suspense on occasion. L.D. Rose is a member of the RWA, FF&P, NEC-RWA and CoLoNY. She currently lives in Rhode Island with her studly hubby, her hyperactive boxer, and her two devious cats.
August 10, 2015
Author Tuesday: Interview with Maria Cox
Interview1. What flavor is your writing?
Sensual romance with sexy, rugged, protective heroes and sassy, sexy, smart heroines.
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
Brian White would play Jaden Smith and Lea Michelle would play Becca Sorrentini.
3. What is your favorite scene in Jungle Fever?
One of my favorite scenes in this novelette is when Jaden and Becca break into an argument one that eventually leads them to feral sex.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
I’m currently reading Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. I have about a dozen or so books on my TBR pile, which include: Sandra Brown’s Lethal, Suzanne Brockman’s Do or Die, Iris Johansen’s Taking Eve. Check my TBR list it’s on Goodreads. :)
5. What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a ghost writing project for an online publisher.
LinksYou can find out more about Maria at these links:
Website: www.mywritingden.netTwitter: @authormariacoxFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMariaCoxGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6398579.Maria_CoxBook Blurb
In Brownsville one of Brooklyn’s most dangerous neighborhoods illicit activities exist on every corner.
Jaden Smith long ago refuted the gangster lifestyle and now wants to go far away from the ghetto as possible.
Now, out of school Jaden launches a promotions company, but his meager savings soon run out. Jaden turns to Angelo Sorrentini who agrees to fund Jaden’s venture. He then introduces Jaden to business associates and Mario, his brother and Becca Sorrentini, his sister.
It is during this brief introduction that Jaden is captivated. Becca is beautiful. And there is an air of raw sexuality that exudes from her every gesture. Despite the temptation Jaden maintains his distance.
Meanwhile, Becca enslaved by her father’s traditional ways is miserable. Soon she conjures a desperate plan: a mysterious boyfriend. But who?
Jaden…
Yes, he’s a wild card, a risky bet, but her only chance. Sex with Jaden may be her ticket to salvation!
Jungle Fever is now available at Amazon and Secret Cravings Publishing.
About the Author
Sensual romance with sexy, rugged, protective heroes and sassy, sexy, smart heroines.
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
Brian White would play Jaden Smith and Lea Michelle would play Becca Sorrentini.
3. What is your favorite scene in Jungle Fever?
One of my favorite scenes in this novelette is when Jaden and Becca break into an argument one that eventually leads them to feral sex.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
I’m currently reading Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. I have about a dozen or so books on my TBR pile, which include: Sandra Brown’s Lethal, Suzanne Brockman’s Do or Die, Iris Johansen’s Taking Eve. Check my TBR list it’s on Goodreads. :)
5. What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a ghost writing project for an online publisher.
LinksYou can find out more about Maria at these links:
Website: www.mywritingden.netTwitter: @authormariacoxFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMariaCoxGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6398579.Maria_CoxBook Blurb
In Brownsville one of Brooklyn’s most dangerous neighborhoods illicit activities exist on every corner.Jaden Smith long ago refuted the gangster lifestyle and now wants to go far away from the ghetto as possible.
Now, out of school Jaden launches a promotions company, but his meager savings soon run out. Jaden turns to Angelo Sorrentini who agrees to fund Jaden’s venture. He then introduces Jaden to business associates and Mario, his brother and Becca Sorrentini, his sister.
It is during this brief introduction that Jaden is captivated. Becca is beautiful. And there is an air of raw sexuality that exudes from her every gesture. Despite the temptation Jaden maintains his distance.
Meanwhile, Becca enslaved by her father’s traditional ways is miserable. Soon she conjures a desperate plan: a mysterious boyfriend. But who?
Jaden…
Yes, he’s a wild card, a risky bet, but her only chance. Sex with Jaden may be her ticket to salvation!
Jungle Fever is now available at Amazon and Secret Cravings Publishing.
About the Author
Maria Cox is a PRO member of Romance Writers of America, she is also is the past President of the Phoenix Writers Club.
Maria has been writing stories since she was a young girl. She picked up her first romance novel when she was just eleven years old and has loved the genre ever since. Maria writes sensual romance, stories that showcase strong, sassy, and sexy characters. When not writing fiction, Maria works as a technical writer. She lives in Queens, New York.
August 5, 2015
Author Thursday: Interview with Rebecca Brooks
Interview1. What flavor is your writing?
Spicy and sweet, with that extra layer of richness and complexity to make you want to come back for more.
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
Casey would be amazing as a younger Connie Britton—she’s strong, sassy, and has great hair.
Definitely Ian Harding for Ben. He’s got Ben’s sexy boyishness and an irresistible smile. I have to admit that I’m not great with celebrities and had to Google “hot male actors in their 20s and 30s” (a search I highly recommend). When I came across Harding’s picture I thought, Bingo.
For Lee, I’d want Kathy Bates because Fried Green Tomatoes is probably my all time favorite movie, and I’d get to meet her, right? Somehow I’ve always pictured her in the role of Casey’s kind and caring older friend, but Bette Midler would be a great choice, too.
3. What is your favorite scene in Above All?
Above All is about an artist who escapes New York City after a breakup, runs a campsite in upstate New York, and despite her best intentions winds up falling for a chef eight years her junior. I love when Casey and Ben begin what they think is going to be a weekend fling and she takes charge and shows him exactly what she wants. And later, when they’re out in a rowboat on a lake and Ben gives her fancy dark chocolate and… other delights. I really enjoyed writing so much about food, art, and the outdoors. The physical, sensual descriptions do so much to heighten the romance and sensuality between hero and heroine and make the book extra special to me.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
I’m currently reading Anne Calhoun’s Afternoon Delights—the heroine is a chef in New York City, so naturally I’ve been excited to pick this one up. I’m also about to start Afterburn by Zane for a book club I’m in. On my nightstand right now are We Were Liars by E. Lockhart and Special Topics in Calamity Physics by Marisha Pessl. On my Kindle, I’m almost done with Desperate Characters by Paula Fox and The Corrections by Jonathan Franzen. I’m usually reading one or two romances, plus a few other things—even when I try to make myself focus!
5. What are you working on now?
Right now I’m gearing up for the release of my next contemporary romance, How to Fall. It’s about an American woman who meets an Australian with a scandalous past while traveling in southern Brazil. I wish I could reveal the cover already because even though I know I’m biased it’s seriously the hottest thing I’ve ever seen.
I’m also editing my next romance, about a high powered real estate developer and a former Olympic skier, set in Washington state. It’s the first in a series, so I guess now I have to write the next three books!
Links You can find out more about Rebecca at these links:
Website: http://rebeccabrooksromance.comTwitter: @BeccaBooksFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebeccabrooksromanceGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22831547-above-allAmazon author pageSign up for Rebecca’s new release alert: http://rebeccabrooksromance.com/newsletter/Book Blurb
Reeling from a sudden breakup, Casey Webb leaves Brooklyn, drives north and settles in a sleepy mountain town in upstate New York. She’s convinced she’s happy being alone—until she reads the acknowledgments in her ex-boyfriend’s hit debut novel, thanking his new girlfriend “above all”.
Good thing Ben Mailer is in town. The hot, young Brooklyn-bound chef offers the perfect distraction, and soon Casey is having the best sex of her life—on a mountain, in the lake, all over her cozy cabin. But as their weekend fling turns into something more, the demands of Ben’s family and budding career make moving to her idyllic town impossible.
Now Casey must decide what she can’t live without—her life in the mountains or the man she wants as hers. Smart, sweet and blisteringly hot, Above All is about getting lost…and finding yourself right where you belong.
Above All is available at Amazon, Ellora’s Cave, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, All Romance eBooks, and iTunes.
ExcerptOne of Casey’s additions to the office had been to put up a bookshelf to house the collection of used paperbacks Geller had accumulated as campers came in to take a book or leave one behind. It wasn’t the greatest library ever amassed, but it kept Casey’s book collection rotating more than if she’d been stuck driving forty minutes to the nearest bookstore any time she wanted something new.
Trash was probably the precise term Nick would have used to describe the murder mystery she was engrossed in with her muddy boots hanging over the edge of the desk. Lucky for both of them, Nick wasn’t up there to share his opinions on taste.
When she heard tires crunching over the dirt, Casey looked up with a start. The office clock said just past nine. She’d had no idea of the time. She’d have to check this group in quickly and then get home.
A dark-brown head poked into the office, accompanied by the sounds of car doors opening and closing and staccato bursts of laughter punctuating the night.
“Come in,” Casey called, cracking the spine to rest the book across the desk. “Quickly, you’re letting the moths in.”
The screen door slammed shut.
Casey was so busy scanning the lines of the ledger Geller kept by hand to check in arrived that she didn’t look up until the man had crossed the office and was standing directly in front of the desk.
“I’m Ben,” he said. “I spoke to a gentleman on the phone?”
Casey looked up.
And tried not to fall back in her chair. He was boyish, with straight dark hair long enough to stray into his eyes and a dimpled grin that carved two apostrophes into his cheeks and another in the center of his chin when he smiled. He was tall and even under his black North Face fleece she could tell how lean and muscular he was. He had soft brown eyes and thin lips with a look like a puppy dog that had cultivated its sweet expression just to make you want to hug it.
“Sure,” Casey said, rooting unnecessarily around the papers on the desk to give herself something to do besides stare. She was flustered by how good-looking Ben was, and even more flustered that she’d been so disarmed. “That was Mr. Geller. He said you’d be coming in. You’re eight?”
Ben Mailer, who definitely wasn’t a beefy ex-football player, confirmed.
“I hope it wasn’t too last minute, but he said there was plenty of space.”
Casey nodded, still distracted. He may not have been back in college but he sure looked as if he could be. She felt like a cradle-robber just looking at him. But it was impossible to pull her eyes away.
She heard his friends outside, laughing about some joke they’d shared in the car. A guy with dark hair buzzed close to his temples and matching thick stubble across his face came in and Casey’s first, totally unprofessional thought was that at least he looked older than Ben—late twenties, maybe, with lines under his eyes that said he was no stranger to late nights. Maybe they were actually the same age and Ben only looked younger. The idea made her feel slightly better about the way his eyes were sending something icy and hot shooting through her veins.
But no matter how old he was, it was still unnerving to realize that she couldn’t stop wondering what he must look like without that trim fleece jacket.
“Hey man,” the guy with the stubble sauntered over to the desk. “Know where we’re going to be?”
Ben turned to Casey. “We have four tents,” he explained, “but we can arrange them however you want.”
Ah. Well, that answered that. Four couples, Casey reasoned, marking down the numbers. It looked like lucky Ben had one very lucky girlfriend. That at least ought to make her stop thinking things that definitely shouldn’t have been running through her mind.
“How many vehicles?” She tried to keep her voice steady, even though she couldn’t make herself look up and meet his dark, luminous eyes. Especially not with his friend there, who was probably wondering what was wrong with the lady behind the desk.
“Two. I’m so sorry we’re so late. We got a little lost in the turnoff from 87 in the dark. I hope you’re not staying open longer just to check us in.”
Casey assured him it was fine, a little unnerved by how polite he was. Somehow it wasn’t what she expected from kids up for a reunion, even though, she reminded herself, she obviously had no idea what Ben was like.
And had no intention of finding out, a stern voice in her head warned.
Casey blinked furiously and tried to stay on track. She wrote down the license plates to their two SUVs, went through the rules of the campsite and showed on a map where to walk to their sites. Counting out the change to Ben’s deposit—while eyeing his long, slender fingers resting on the desk—she couldn’t help wondering who his girlfriend was waiting outside.
“So where’d you guys come in from?” She made her voice casual as Ben passed the maps to his friend.
“All over. Boston, New York.” He gestured vaguely. “We all went to Vassar and stayed here once, right before we graduated. So, you know, we thought it’d be fun to get together again.”
The man with the stubble clapped Ben on the shoulder. “This guy is way too modest. He’s studying at the Culinary Institute of America and we’re here to give him a well-deserved weekend off. He’s been working like a dog.”
“Have not,” Ben said good-naturedly, but somehow his smile didn’t quite reach his dark eyes.
His friend, though, hardly noticed Ben’s sudden unease. “We’re hoping he remembers us so that when he opens up the best restaurant in New York City, we’ll be comped free meals since we won’t be able to afford a single slice of bread.”
Ben winced, but as soon as Casey told him, she hoped he’d enjoy his time off, a lopsided grin spread across his face. This time, it lit up his eyes.
“Make sure you have flashlights,” she said quickly to cover up the way her pulse escalated when he caught her eye and brushed back a rogue strand of hair. “Be careful of roots and rocks, that sort of thing.”
Ben nodded, but as his friend went out to find the campsite, he hung back, looking around. Casey told herself it had nothing to do with her, but even so, some small spark fluttered inside as his eyes lingered.
“What’re you reading?” Ben asked as he looked over the bookshelf.
“High-quality material.” Casey lifted up the cover and explained the system she’d set up.
“Pretty ingenious—maybe I’ll bring you something.”
“Sure,” she said, trying to keep her mouth in a straight line. For some reason, the edges kept wanting to pop up.
Someone called from outside, asking Ben for the keys, and at last he turned to go. On his way out, he wished Casey a good night and then reached up to tap the back of the doorframe before swinging the door shut behind him.
She really, really wished he hadn’t.
Because lifting his arms to the doorframe made his jacket rise up enough to expose the top of his low-slung jeans. As well as the thin green line of his boxers hugging his hips underneath. It didn’t take X-ray vision to know that just above that patch of skin, hidden by his white undershirt and whatever else he had on under his black North Face fleece, were two long dimples carved into his lower back, matching the dimples on his face.
Officially the sexiest part of any man’s body and the one thing Casey dreamed about on those rare nights when she did, in fact, allow herself to dream.
But this was not going to be one of those images she replayed in her mind’s eye. She was already berating herself for noticing. Not only had she turned to putty simply because he slid the hair out of his eyes as if he didn’t know the gesture would make every girl within a ten-mile radius want to extend her hand to his cheek. But she, Cassandra Webb, competent, capable, got dumped on her ass but still got back up again, thirty-four-year-old independent woman, had checked out his twenty-something-year-old butt.
She made herself swear she wouldn’t give him a second thought. She wasn’t interested. Period. She’d come to the woods to be alone and she fully planned to stay that way. She was going to read a little more until she was sufficiently distracted and then head back to her cabin, warm some cookies in the microwave, and go to sleep. Geller would take over registration in the morning and she would never see this group again.
Casey reached for her book, but she couldn’t stop her hand from hovering over the ledger. Before she knew what she was doing, she allowed herself a quick peek at the records and groaned.
Geller’s handwriting was unmistakable. They were staying for four days, three nights. There was no way she wouldn’t find herself looking at those dimples again.
About the Author
Spicy and sweet, with that extra layer of richness and complexity to make you want to come back for more.
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?
Casey would be amazing as a younger Connie Britton—she’s strong, sassy, and has great hair.
Definitely Ian Harding for Ben. He’s got Ben’s sexy boyishness and an irresistible smile. I have to admit that I’m not great with celebrities and had to Google “hot male actors in their 20s and 30s” (a search I highly recommend). When I came across Harding’s picture I thought, Bingo.
For Lee, I’d want Kathy Bates because Fried Green Tomatoes is probably my all time favorite movie, and I’d get to meet her, right? Somehow I’ve always pictured her in the role of Casey’s kind and caring older friend, but Bette Midler would be a great choice, too.
3. What is your favorite scene in Above All?
Above All is about an artist who escapes New York City after a breakup, runs a campsite in upstate New York, and despite her best intentions winds up falling for a chef eight years her junior. I love when Casey and Ben begin what they think is going to be a weekend fling and she takes charge and shows him exactly what she wants. And later, when they’re out in a rowboat on a lake and Ben gives her fancy dark chocolate and… other delights. I really enjoyed writing so much about food, art, and the outdoors. The physical, sensual descriptions do so much to heighten the romance and sensuality between hero and heroine and make the book extra special to me.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?
I’m currently reading Anne Calhoun’s Afternoon Delights—the heroine is a chef in New York City, so naturally I’ve been excited to pick this one up. I’m also about to start Afterburn by Zane for a book club I’m in. On my nightstand right now are We Were Liars by E. Lockhart and Special Topics in Calamity Physics by Marisha Pessl. On my Kindle, I’m almost done with Desperate Characters by Paula Fox and The Corrections by Jonathan Franzen. I’m usually reading one or two romances, plus a few other things—even when I try to make myself focus!
5. What are you working on now?
Right now I’m gearing up for the release of my next contemporary romance, How to Fall. It’s about an American woman who meets an Australian with a scandalous past while traveling in southern Brazil. I wish I could reveal the cover already because even though I know I’m biased it’s seriously the hottest thing I’ve ever seen.
I’m also editing my next romance, about a high powered real estate developer and a former Olympic skier, set in Washington state. It’s the first in a series, so I guess now I have to write the next three books!
Links You can find out more about Rebecca at these links:
Website: http://rebeccabrooksromance.comTwitter: @BeccaBooksFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebeccabrooksromanceGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22831547-above-allAmazon author pageSign up for Rebecca’s new release alert: http://rebeccabrooksromance.com/newsletter/Book Blurb
Reeling from a sudden breakup, Casey Webb leaves Brooklyn, drives north and settles in a sleepy mountain town in upstate New York. She’s convinced she’s happy being alone—until she reads the acknowledgments in her ex-boyfriend’s hit debut novel, thanking his new girlfriend “above all”.Good thing Ben Mailer is in town. The hot, young Brooklyn-bound chef offers the perfect distraction, and soon Casey is having the best sex of her life—on a mountain, in the lake, all over her cozy cabin. But as their weekend fling turns into something more, the demands of Ben’s family and budding career make moving to her idyllic town impossible.
Now Casey must decide what she can’t live without—her life in the mountains or the man she wants as hers. Smart, sweet and blisteringly hot, Above All is about getting lost…and finding yourself right where you belong.
Above All is available at Amazon, Ellora’s Cave, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, All Romance eBooks, and iTunes.
ExcerptOne of Casey’s additions to the office had been to put up a bookshelf to house the collection of used paperbacks Geller had accumulated as campers came in to take a book or leave one behind. It wasn’t the greatest library ever amassed, but it kept Casey’s book collection rotating more than if she’d been stuck driving forty minutes to the nearest bookstore any time she wanted something new.
Trash was probably the precise term Nick would have used to describe the murder mystery she was engrossed in with her muddy boots hanging over the edge of the desk. Lucky for both of them, Nick wasn’t up there to share his opinions on taste.
When she heard tires crunching over the dirt, Casey looked up with a start. The office clock said just past nine. She’d had no idea of the time. She’d have to check this group in quickly and then get home.
A dark-brown head poked into the office, accompanied by the sounds of car doors opening and closing and staccato bursts of laughter punctuating the night.
“Come in,” Casey called, cracking the spine to rest the book across the desk. “Quickly, you’re letting the moths in.”
The screen door slammed shut.
Casey was so busy scanning the lines of the ledger Geller kept by hand to check in arrived that she didn’t look up until the man had crossed the office and was standing directly in front of the desk.
“I’m Ben,” he said. “I spoke to a gentleman on the phone?”
Casey looked up.
And tried not to fall back in her chair. He was boyish, with straight dark hair long enough to stray into his eyes and a dimpled grin that carved two apostrophes into his cheeks and another in the center of his chin when he smiled. He was tall and even under his black North Face fleece she could tell how lean and muscular he was. He had soft brown eyes and thin lips with a look like a puppy dog that had cultivated its sweet expression just to make you want to hug it.
“Sure,” Casey said, rooting unnecessarily around the papers on the desk to give herself something to do besides stare. She was flustered by how good-looking Ben was, and even more flustered that she’d been so disarmed. “That was Mr. Geller. He said you’d be coming in. You’re eight?”
Ben Mailer, who definitely wasn’t a beefy ex-football player, confirmed.
“I hope it wasn’t too last minute, but he said there was plenty of space.”
Casey nodded, still distracted. He may not have been back in college but he sure looked as if he could be. She felt like a cradle-robber just looking at him. But it was impossible to pull her eyes away.
She heard his friends outside, laughing about some joke they’d shared in the car. A guy with dark hair buzzed close to his temples and matching thick stubble across his face came in and Casey’s first, totally unprofessional thought was that at least he looked older than Ben—late twenties, maybe, with lines under his eyes that said he was no stranger to late nights. Maybe they were actually the same age and Ben only looked younger. The idea made her feel slightly better about the way his eyes were sending something icy and hot shooting through her veins.
But no matter how old he was, it was still unnerving to realize that she couldn’t stop wondering what he must look like without that trim fleece jacket.
“Hey man,” the guy with the stubble sauntered over to the desk. “Know where we’re going to be?”
Ben turned to Casey. “We have four tents,” he explained, “but we can arrange them however you want.”
Ah. Well, that answered that. Four couples, Casey reasoned, marking down the numbers. It looked like lucky Ben had one very lucky girlfriend. That at least ought to make her stop thinking things that definitely shouldn’t have been running through her mind.
“How many vehicles?” She tried to keep her voice steady, even though she couldn’t make herself look up and meet his dark, luminous eyes. Especially not with his friend there, who was probably wondering what was wrong with the lady behind the desk.
“Two. I’m so sorry we’re so late. We got a little lost in the turnoff from 87 in the dark. I hope you’re not staying open longer just to check us in.”
Casey assured him it was fine, a little unnerved by how polite he was. Somehow it wasn’t what she expected from kids up for a reunion, even though, she reminded herself, she obviously had no idea what Ben was like.
And had no intention of finding out, a stern voice in her head warned.
Casey blinked furiously and tried to stay on track. She wrote down the license plates to their two SUVs, went through the rules of the campsite and showed on a map where to walk to their sites. Counting out the change to Ben’s deposit—while eyeing his long, slender fingers resting on the desk—she couldn’t help wondering who his girlfriend was waiting outside.
“So where’d you guys come in from?” She made her voice casual as Ben passed the maps to his friend.
“All over. Boston, New York.” He gestured vaguely. “We all went to Vassar and stayed here once, right before we graduated. So, you know, we thought it’d be fun to get together again.”
The man with the stubble clapped Ben on the shoulder. “This guy is way too modest. He’s studying at the Culinary Institute of America and we’re here to give him a well-deserved weekend off. He’s been working like a dog.”
“Have not,” Ben said good-naturedly, but somehow his smile didn’t quite reach his dark eyes.
His friend, though, hardly noticed Ben’s sudden unease. “We’re hoping he remembers us so that when he opens up the best restaurant in New York City, we’ll be comped free meals since we won’t be able to afford a single slice of bread.”
Ben winced, but as soon as Casey told him, she hoped he’d enjoy his time off, a lopsided grin spread across his face. This time, it lit up his eyes.
“Make sure you have flashlights,” she said quickly to cover up the way her pulse escalated when he caught her eye and brushed back a rogue strand of hair. “Be careful of roots and rocks, that sort of thing.”
Ben nodded, but as his friend went out to find the campsite, he hung back, looking around. Casey told herself it had nothing to do with her, but even so, some small spark fluttered inside as his eyes lingered.
“What’re you reading?” Ben asked as he looked over the bookshelf.
“High-quality material.” Casey lifted up the cover and explained the system she’d set up.
“Pretty ingenious—maybe I’ll bring you something.”
“Sure,” she said, trying to keep her mouth in a straight line. For some reason, the edges kept wanting to pop up.
Someone called from outside, asking Ben for the keys, and at last he turned to go. On his way out, he wished Casey a good night and then reached up to tap the back of the doorframe before swinging the door shut behind him.
She really, really wished he hadn’t.
Because lifting his arms to the doorframe made his jacket rise up enough to expose the top of his low-slung jeans. As well as the thin green line of his boxers hugging his hips underneath. It didn’t take X-ray vision to know that just above that patch of skin, hidden by his white undershirt and whatever else he had on under his black North Face fleece, were two long dimples carved into his lower back, matching the dimples on his face.
Officially the sexiest part of any man’s body and the one thing Casey dreamed about on those rare nights when she did, in fact, allow herself to dream.
But this was not going to be one of those images she replayed in her mind’s eye. She was already berating herself for noticing. Not only had she turned to putty simply because he slid the hair out of his eyes as if he didn’t know the gesture would make every girl within a ten-mile radius want to extend her hand to his cheek. But she, Cassandra Webb, competent, capable, got dumped on her ass but still got back up again, thirty-four-year-old independent woman, had checked out his twenty-something-year-old butt.
She made herself swear she wouldn’t give him a second thought. She wasn’t interested. Period. She’d come to the woods to be alone and she fully planned to stay that way. She was going to read a little more until she was sufficiently distracted and then head back to her cabin, warm some cookies in the microwave, and go to sleep. Geller would take over registration in the morning and she would never see this group again.
Casey reached for her book, but she couldn’t stop her hand from hovering over the ledger. Before she knew what she was doing, she allowed herself a quick peek at the records and groaned.
Geller’s handwriting was unmistakable. They were staying for four days, three nights. There was no way she wouldn’t find herself looking at those dimples again.
About the Author
Rebecca Brooks lives in New York City in an apartment filled with books. She received a PhD in English but decided it was more fun to write books than write about them. She has backpacked alone through India and Brazil, traveled by cargo boat down the Amazon River, climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, explored ice caves in Peru, trekked to the source of the Ganges, and sunbathed in Burma, but she always likes coming home to a cold beer and her hot husband in the Bronx. Her books are about independent women who leave their old lives behind to try something new—and find the passion, excitement and purpose they didn’t know they’d been missing.
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