Robyn Bachar's Blog, page 9

Author Thursday: Interview with Deborah Blumenthal

Today's guest is Deborah Blumenthal, and she's talking about her YA book Mafia Girl. It sounds pretty awesome. (I love that cover!) RT Book Reviews said, "The twinkling backdrop of Manhattan and the budding romance between two opposites will make YA fans adore this novel." You know you want to check it out. ;)

1. What flavor is your writing?

Cappucino.

2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?

Vanessa Hudgens as Gia, and someone who looks like Kevin Costner did about thirty years ago!! If you find him, let me know!

3. What is your favorite scene in MAFIA GIRL?

Gia and Michael meet in an intimate bar in downtown Manhattan for a drink. She’s the daughter of a Mafia don and he’s a cop who’d like to put her father behind bars. It’s the first time they’re out together and the chemistry between them is so intense that they can barely look at each other.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?

I just finished, “The Other Language,” by Francesca Marciano, and I’m about to start, “My Struggle,” by Karl Ove Knausgaard: Book 2: A Man in Love. Then I’ll start “Redeployment,” by Phil Klay.

5. What are you working on now?

Another romance novel and some picture books, and I’m exploring ideas for another young adult novel.

You can find out more about Deborah at these links:
Website: http://deborahblumenthal.comTwitter: @deborahbluFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/readthelifeguard “What’s in a name? Everything . . . if you have my name.”

At her exclusive Manhattan high school, seventeen-year-old Gia is the most hated/loved girl in school. Why? Her father doesn’t have a boss. He is the boss—the capo di tutti cappi, boss of all bosses. Not that Gia cares. But life gets complicated when she meets a cop she calls “Officer Hottie” and feels a surprising chemistry. Then Vogue magazine wants to feature Gia in a fashion spread about real-life bad girls. On top of this, she’s running for class president. Can Gia step out from under her dad’s shadow and show everyone there’s more to her than “Mafia Girl?”

Mafia Girl is now available from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Indie Bound.

Deborah Blumenthal is an award-winning journalist and nutritionist who now divides her time between writing children's books and adult novels. She has been a regular contributor to The New York Times (including four years as the Sunday New York Times Magazine beauty columnist), and a home design columnist for Long Island Newsday. Her health, fitness, beauty, travel, and feature stories have appeared widely in many other newspapers and national magazines including New York’s Daily News, The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times, Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Woman's Day, Family Circle, Self, and Vogue. Blumenthal lives in New York City.

Author Thursday: Interview with Kishan Paul

Today's guest is Samhain author Kishan Paul, and she's talking about her recent release Blind Love.

1. What flavor is your writing?

Blind Love has a sprinkle of suspense but more than anything, it’s a sweet, fun romance.

2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?

Ha! Now that would be fun. I’d love for someone like Stephen Amell to play Gabe and Jessica Alba to play Lauren.

3. What is your favorite scene in Blind Love?

My favorite scene in Blind Love is one of the bedroom scenes between Lauren and Gabe. She’s trying to get dressed, and he’s wanting to get her back in bed. Seeing her from his eyes, and the things he did to try and convince her to stay, were funny and sexy all at the same time. They totally had me giggling and shaking my head as I wrote them.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?

My TBR list is soo long, I wouldn’t even know where to begin. But if I had to pick two authors from that list, they would be Jill Shalvis and Colleen Hoover. I love their stuff.

5. What are you working on now?

In February this year, I released a novella, Taking the Plunge, as part of the Love Least Expected Anthology. I am working on making that into a full novel by this fall. Eve and Pete haven’t shut up and have made it their goal to keep me up at night. I’ve finally realized the only way I’ll get any sleep is to finish their story.

You can find out more about Kishan at these links:
Website: http://kishanpaulauthor.netFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/KishanPaulAuthorTwitter: @kishan_paulPinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/kishanpaulTSU: https://www.tsu.co/kishanpaulNewsletter: http://mad.ly/signups/119110/join She doesn’t need a hero. But a sexy Marine…that’ll work.

At twenty nine, psychologist Lauren Baxter has a successful counseling practice. Since becoming legally blind at fifteen, her world has been a blurry mess of colors. Her greatest fear is also her ultimate reality. One day that fuzzy realm will forever turn black. Refusing to let blindness define her, she builds a life for herself with her dog, Jack Sparrow, and best friend, Sunny Daye.

Lauren has no tolerance for pity or for Superman swooshing down and rescuing her. She is capable of saving herself just fine. That is until Gabe, the great smelling, former Marine, from Texas moves in next door. Her attraction to him is immediate and, unfortunately for her, mutual.

When Lauren’s ex-husband shows up begging for another chance, she is confused and fragile. She also finds herself in the arms of her secretive neighbor. Little does she realize that her decision for a steamy roll in the hay with Gabe will suck her into his mysterious past, thrust her ex-husband back into her life, put her in the middle of a murder investigation, and place her life in danger.

Gabriel Briggs has the weight of the world on his shoulders. Short term flings are all he can afford for more reasons than one – reasons he never plans to share. Until he moves in next door to the beautiful, green eyed, feisty, Lauren. One night with her and he’s reconsidering promises he made almost a decade ago. When a woman from his past is murdered, his world is turned upside down. Secrets are revealed and innocent lives are threatened. Can Gabe win Lauren’s love and save her life before it’s too late?

Warning: Contains a blind therapist who doesn’t consider herself impaired; a meddling, erotic-novel-writing best friend; a hot ex-Marine with a shady past; and a loyal guide dog that howls “I love you” and is probably the sanest one of the bunch.

View the Blind Love Trailer here.

Blind Love is now available at Samhain and Amazon. Click here to add it to your Goodreads to read list.

Please enjoy this excerpt from Blind Love:

“I’m sorry, ma’am. I can’t help you,” the cabbie said.

Gabe put the last of the supplies into the large metal toolbox and padlocked the lid.

“He’s a guide dog. Isn’t it against the law for you to refuse services because of him?” Lauren asked.

He bit back his urge to help.

For him, the girl spelled trouble.

T.
R.
O.
U.

“The sign right there says no animals.” The driver pointed to the backseat window.

B.
L.
E.

She grinned. “And if I wasn’t blind, I’m sure I would have seen it.”

Gabe chuckled. He loved her fake smile. Leaning against the truck, he watched the performance.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t—I mean, you don’t look blind.”

Still grinning, she cleared her throat and pulled on the dog’s harness. “I am. Which is why I need my guide dog. He goes everywhere with me.”

The beast raised its ears and looked at Gabe. He averted his eyes, pulled off his baseball cap and tucked it into his jean pocket. Her monster of a pet was making him feel guilty as hell.

“I’m sorry, but I’m allergic to animals. He can’t come in my taxi.”

“I can pay you extra for your troubles. The place is a few blocks after the highway. It would only be ten minutes of your time.”

“Look, ma’am. It’s not going to happen. If you want, I’ll call another car to pick you up.”

After a long pause, she shook her head and bit her lip. “No, it’s fine. I understand. Thank you.”

A few seconds later, the cab pulled away. Lauren stood cross-armed, staring out.

Gabe gripped the truck to make sure his legs didn’t get any crazy ideas.

This is not my problem. Maybe if he said it enough times, he’d believe it.

“Come on, Jack. It’s time for Plan B,” she said and grabbed the dog’s holster.

Plan what?

Stunned, he watched the two stroll down the road. She said the place was a few blocks after the highway. Which meant they’d be walking alongside one of the busiest boulevards in Denver for a few yards before she’d ever reach the interstate. He looked at his watch. Four fifty, on a Friday afternoon. The two would be smack dab in front of the I25 overpass during rush hour traffic—a dangerous situation for anyone, much less a blind woman.

She wouldn’t, would she?

When Lauren got to the end of the street and turned left, he cursed under his breath.

Yeah, she would.

From daring escapes by tough women to chivalrous men swooping in to save the day, the creativity switch to Kishan Paul’s brain is always in the “on” position. If daydreaming stories were a college course, Kish would have graduated with honors.

Mother of two beautiful children, she has been married to her best friend for over seventeen years. With the help of supportive family and friends, she balances her family, a thriving counseling practice, and writing without sinking into insanity.

Her novella, Taking the Plunge, is currently available in the Love Least Expected Anthology on Amazon.

#AReBlast One Day Sale!

Today only ARe is holding a 25% off sale for hundreds of titles, including my new release The Sephra's Tear .

The Sephra's Tear will be on a month-long blog tour in July (more details about tour stops soon) and I'll be giving away a $25 Amazon gift card at the end of the tour. And if you sign up for my newsletter you'll get a special coupon code and an exclusive excerpt in the next issue. Fun stuff. ;)

For now, here's the blurb:

Just one spell will change their fates…

Cordelia is a pawn of House Dorchada—a notorious noble family comprised of thieves, assassins and dark wizards. Desperate to avoid their poisonous politics, Cordelia plotted her escape for years, but her carefully laid plans are jeopardized when her father commands her to marry an aged lord of Frostever.

With only a few short months left before her wedding, Cordelia’s salvation hinges on creating a Sephra’s Tear—a forbidden amulet that causes overwhelming lust in its victim. A black market buyer promises a life-changing amount of coin as payment for the Tear, but being caught creating it carries a death sentence.

Two wizards are needed to produce the passion to fuel the erotic spell, so Cordelia recruits the aid of peasant wizard Nathaniel Ravenwood. Nathaniel has long denied his desire for the beautiful Cordelia. As a noblewoman and a Dorchada she is as dangerous to Nathaniel as a viper, but the fortune she offers is a temptation he can't refuse.

Dealing in dark magic comes with a price, and Cordelia and Nathaniel risk losing their freedom—and their hearts. Their fates depend on the one spell that will free them, or destroy them.

Author Thursday: Interview with Elizabeth Harmon

I'm super excited to have Elizabeth Harmon back as my guest today! In case you missed it, I LOVED the hero in Pairing Off, and I'm looking forward to reading Turning it On.

So without further ago, here's Elizabeth!


Hi everyone! I’m excited to be back on Robyn’s Author Thursday, sharing news about my upcoming release, “Turning It On,” which comes out June 29. It’s the second book in my Carina Press Red Hot Russians series, and like my debut novel “Pairing Off,” “Turning It On” features a sweet and sexy Russian hero, and adds a new element- Reality TV.

1. What flavor is your writing?

If I had to choose something edible (or drinkable) to describe my writing, I’d choose a medium-bodied red wine, like a merlot. Something a bit lighter than other reds, with dark and tangy flavors to balance out the sweetness.
2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?

For the role of Vlad, my choice isn’t an actor, but a dancer; Dancing With The Stars’ Val Chmerskovskiy. Anyone who has ever watched the show knows Val has the moves and the looks to play a seriously sexy male stripper. But he also has a gentle, patient side, which fits Vlad too. As Hannah, I’d cast either Kat Dennings from Two Broke Girls, or Gennifer Goodwin from Once Upon A Time. Kat embodies Hannah’s looks, while Ginnifer captures her intelligence and refined personality. Incidentally, I would cast Ginnifer’s “Once” co-star and real-life husband Josh Dallas as Hannah’s fiancé Jack.

3. What is your favorite scene in Turning It On?

I have two. One is when Vlad follows a distraught Hannah down to the water to comfort her, but since this is reality TV, she doesn’t quite believe he isn’t wearing a hidden microphone. The only way to prove he isn’t, is by taking it all off . Another favorite scene is when Hannah films the show’s final episode, how Vlad’s reacts when he sees it. I won’t give away any spoilers, but I had teary eyes and goosebumps while writing it, and it still gets to me, even after reading it dozens of times.

4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?

I’ve just started Bella Andre’s “It Must Be Your Love,” which hadn’t been on my lengthy TBR list, though she is an author I’ve been meaning to read. The back cover copy grabbed me. The hero is a rock star…what can I say? Since I usually have a non-fiction book going too, I’m looking forward to Laura Vanderkam’s “I Know How She Does It,” about how busy women juggle multiple responsibilities without going crazy.

5. What are you working on now?

I’m currently in the midst of writing the third Red Hot Russians book, “Getting It Back.” Sexy, charming Mikhail Zaitsev, is a gold medalist figure skater determined to make a comeback, and Amy Shepherd is a beautiful American athletic trainer who travels to Russia to help him do it…but is equally determined not to fall in love. It’s scheduled for release in March, 2016.

You can find out more about Elizabeth at these links:
Website Facebook Twitter Goodreads Author Page Book editor Hannah Levinson couldn’t be happier. This “Nice Jewish Girl” is ready to marry the man she’s longed after for half her life. When her fiancé suggests they audition for Last Fling, a steamy new reality show for engaged couples, she lets herself be swayed. Maybe she’ll learn a thing or two.

Vlad Shustov’s fall from a once-bright career as a competitive figure skater was swift. Now trapped by a shameful past and an uncertain future, “Vlad the Bad” strips for cash. Joining the cast of Last Fling could earn him a fortune—or at least enough to finally leave stripping. But to win the show’s prize, he must seduce an engaged woman, something he can't even bear the thought of.

Hannah's not like any woman Vlad's met before. Betrayed by the man she thought she loved and relegated to the ugly-duckling role she’d worked so hard to shed, can she trust there’s more to Vlad than meets the eye? With sleazy TV tactics shattering the last shreds of the contestants' confidence, they'll have to believe true happiness is not only possible...it may be looking right at them.

Turning it On is available for pre-order at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Google Play, Kobo, and iBooks.

Book Blast: Fuled by Lust: Makar and Baruch

Today's guest is Celeste Prater, who is celebrating her new release Fueled by Lust: Makar and Baruch. Celeste is awarding a randomly drawn commenter a $20 Amazon/BN gift card via Rafflecopter.

Make sure you follow the tour and comment--the more you comment, the better your chances of winning. The tour dates can be found here.
A quick mission to retrieve a bag of blood leaves Makar Decanus and Baruch Abella’s head spinning when they stumble upon their potential mate. Unknown to them at the time, this isn’t just any ordinary doctor with sea-green eyes and a tantalizing scent of violets. She might very well be the catalyst leading to the destruction of the Insedi race.

Dr. Keely Anderson thinks she’s on to something wondrous when not one, but three patients reveal they’ve seen men disappearing before their eyes. Undaunted by her prick boss’s demand she stop investigating, Keely finds herself swept into the arms of two overwhelming males that want to see her permanently positioned between their sexy as hell bodies. But will her heartrending past keep them at arm’s length?

Book 7 in the Fueled By Lust Series will pull at your heartstrings, make you gasp at the action, and have you fall head over heels in love once again with the Insedi race.

Reader note: Series best read in sequence

Fueled by Lust: Makar and Baruch is available at Bookstrand, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, and iTunes.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Please enjoy this excerpt from Fueled by Lust: Makar and Baruch:

“I want you to be comfortable, sweetness. You have a look on your face as if you’re expecting me to crush you. That’s not an ideal mindset to instigate your desire.” He rolled to a sitting position, leaned against the couch, and patted his thigh.

“Here, sit on my lap. We’ll just hold each other for a bit.”

Muscles melting in relief, Keely threw her leg over his and settled onto his lap.

He caressed her arm and spoke softly. “Ready?”

She nodded and glanced over to Baruch. He was trying to focus his eyes.

Keely jumped when Makar’s hands landed on her hips.

“Relax. You’re in charge. Okay?”

She stared into his golden eyes and tried to figure out why she was so damn jumpy. Releasing her breath, she placed her hands on his shoulders and leaned forward. “I’m going to kiss you. Will you do that electrical charge thing again? I need some warning.”

“No, sweets. That was a one-time deal. Lay it on me.”

Moving closer, she felt his palms slide up her back. The moment their mouths touched, she closed her eyes and fell into the most sublime experience imaginable. His lips were soft, his motions gentle, and his tongue warm and inviting. Gradually, she grew bolder and demanded more from the kiss, withdrawing, nipping his full lower lip, and kissing the sting away before starting the intimate exploration all over again. His palms pressed harder against her back, pulling her closer.

Celeste was born and raised in a small town between Dallas/Fort Worth and Austin. Wanting to see more than her small Texas town, she joined the Marines, which satisfied her craving to see more of the U.S. and her drive to see if she could be one of the few and the proud.

A firm believer in educating the mind, Celeste has achieved several advanced degrees, the latest being a master’s of science.

Her true love is writing erotic romance, especially about alien hunks that know how to treat their females.

Drusus, Severus, Cato, Lucien, Caelius, Maxim and many more have swirled in her dreams until she had to bring them to life and allow them to find love within the pages of the Fueled by Lust book series.

Book 1 DRUSUS was nominated as Top 5 Finalist and placed 3rd in the 2014 RWA Passionate Ink’s 9th Annual Passionate Plume Book Contest in Erotic SciFi/Fantasy Category, Book 2 SEVERUS achieved BEST BOOK review rating and won April 2014 BOOK OF THE MONTH Reader Poll at LONG AND SHORT REVIEWS, Book 3 CATO won the May/June 2014, and LUCIEN won the September 2014 BOOK OF THE MONTH Reader Poll at LONG AND SHORT REVIEWS. All currently released books in the series have made it into the Top 5 Bestseller Lists at Bookstrand.com within days of release as well as making it into the Top 10 Hottest New Releases in Erotic Science Fiction on Amazon.

You can find out more about Celeste at these links:
Website@Celeste_PraterFacebookInstagramPinterest.comYouTubeGoogle+Tumblr

Release Day Blitz: Sex, Love and Aliens Vol. 2

Today's guests are celebrating the release of their new anthology, Sex, Love and Aliens, Volume 2. All of these things are relevant to my interests. ;) I'm so picking up a copy of this one.

This tour is giving away 1 $10 gift card to the winner’s choice of Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or All Romance Ebooks, and the book will be on sale for $0.99 for a limited time at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and iTunes.
COVERT WEBS
by Imogene Nix

Power, deceit, and passion. Old enemies, new love, and the future of the entire universe hanging in the balance.

Dria is more than the Ba'Tuan Princess, she's also a highly trained warrior who's been sent to Earth to covertly uncover a plot to destroy the accord between the two species.

Military commander Marcus Vane is scarred and weary. His experience with women has left him afraid of commitment…that is until Dria turns up. Not only is she everything a warrior should be—strong, focused, and honorable—she's also an incredibly beautiful woman.

They must work together to find the Incubi and stop their plans, but one split-second decision changes everything, and now the danger is even more extreme.

Content Warning: contains sizzling sex scenes with a gorgeous human male warrior and a beautiful female Ba'Tuan warrior

THE SPACESHIP CAPTAIN'S DAUGHTER
by Ashlynn Monroe

Briz will face death to save a race of strangers, but will her pirate's love be enough to save her?

Briz Julius isn't afraid to break the law to save the lives of strangers. Briz insists she can get an important shipment of medicine between worlds without incident. Her family reluctantly agrees to allow her to make the trip in their oldest, smallest vessel. The decrepit ship doesn't look like much, but that's exactly what she needs to get to her designation without attracting attention.

Matek's family was massacred by the captain of the pirate ship, the Heartless. Becoming one of the crew was easy, but remaining silent while the ruthless villain takes an innocent girl captive isn't. Matek has spent years plotting his revenge. Is he willing to throw away his only chance to avenge everyone he loved in order to save the bold and beautiful stranger?

Content Warning: contains sensual love scenes

HER CLONE
by Jaye Shields

When love sparks between enemies, can it survive?

Angela Raden's last mission to planet US-2 nearly got her killed. The savage beating she'd been subjected to made her wish she had died. And now the military wants to send her back. But Angela will be doing things differently this time around. She'll die before she allows the enemy to touch her again.

Damon is a human clone raised for the purpose of killing, but he's seen enough death to last him a lifetime. With revolution taking over his planet, he remains in solitude, seeking peace amidst chaos. When he meets a tiny slip of a human determined to take on an entire clone army, he can't help but follow her. Since he'd been in hiding the woman believes he's human, and upon seeing her hatred of his cloned peers, he keeps the secret in order to remain in her company. But when he follows her into danger, will the truth be revealed?

Content Warning: contains strong language, violence, and some very hot sex

BOND
by Beth D. Carter

A woman who has nothing to lose, and a man with everything to gain.

They had known each other a lifetime ago, but love while serving as slaves to the TEV, the aliens who rule Earth, wasn't something that could ever last. When Freya's family escaped, leaving the only home she'd ever known, she left Kory behind, but she can't forget him.

When she meets him again, Kory isn't the human boy she remembered. He has survived a horrific scientific experiment that has changed him into a hybrid—half human, half TEV. Can she trust this man who has now, essentially, become a member of the enemy?

Content Warning: contains sexual content and some violence

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Excerpts

COVERT WEBS Excerpt:

A sharp beep drew Dria's attention. The communication console glowed and she reached out, touching the button. "Yes?"

"Turana, we've received an encoded transmission for you. The gentleman is most insistent and is using the Omega code." The captain's face betrayed no concern, but in his eyes, she read a hint of panic.

"Connect me."

His face faded away, replaced by another, harsher visage.

"Forgive me, Turana Dria. My name is Commander Marcus Vane, and I am to be your contact on Earth. I've received some intelligence that the Incubi plan to strike when you arrive."

She leaned forward. "I see, and you know this how?"

No matter how hard she tried, the pounding of her blood pulsed faster as interest flared deep in her belly. Her fingers flexed, and she wished for some physical outlet for the strong emotion that filled her. A hiss escaped between her tight lips, and even that angered her. After so many years of training herself to be calm and controlled in all things, how could she allow even that small sign of impatience and anger to escape?

"We intercepted a transmission showing they are aware of the suggested landing sites and times."

Dria frowned at his words. "And so…"

"I have a suggestion that may allow us to circumvent their plans."

Even as she weighed his words, she scanned his face, noting the full lips and cobalt blue eyes. She told her body not to respond to the unfamiliar pull of fascination, but her physical reaction only grew.

"Tell me." She spoke harshly, and watched the way his mouth thinned at her command. The small bow of his head was the only acknowledgement of subservience.

"Of course, Turana. I propose that we bring you planet-side early. Before they have an opportunity to complete their plans. The airfield is under constant surveillance, which leads me to believe they have inside knowledge of our plans."

"I see." Her short answers and demands sounded almost childish, and she winced inwardly.

"You have read the briefing paper?" His voice cut through her thoughts.

"I… Yes." The tactical briefing she'd received left more questions than it answered and anger flared, white-hot. "Contact the captain with your plan, then have him apprise me of the changes." She kept her response brief while her fingers curled with the urge to reach out and trace the planes of his face. Stupid reaction, Dria. Control yourself!

"Of course, Turana. Do you have any queries?" His voice now was melodious, and a flare of heat warmed her belly.

"No. Send the details. We'll make it work."

"Then I shall leave you…"

"Yes. Good day." The screen darkened, and she rubbed her hands over tired eyes. "Aargh!"

Tugging her hands through her long curls didn't help. Instead, yards of material pooled at her elbows, reminding her of the part she was supposed to play. Squeezing her eyes shut didn't help either. Too many relied on her to save them to get lost in her fears.

Dria squared her shoulders and inhaled a shuddering breath. "I will not fail."

THE SPACESHIP CAPTAIN'S DAUGHTER Excerpt:

"As much as I'd like to pass her about, I do know her father. He's a good man. Give her a choice," Blood, the captain of the Heartless, said. "She can be yours, or we can turn her in."

"I want to deliver the medicine. It's worthless, except to the people who are sick. Why are you doing this?" she asked in a groggy tone.

"Brizette Julius," Blood said.

The girl flinched. Her eyes widened a bit. "How do you know my name?" She pulled the blanket securely around her. Matek found himself moving closer to her, as if he could somehow shield her with his body.

"Your father saved me once. I owe him, but this is business. There are people who would pay a lot of money to see that this medicine doesn't arrive. I have several willing buyers waiting. The Talorians should have just given up and moved on. They made their choice to stay."

"They're all that's left of their race!"

"Then, sweet Brizette, they should have been cautious about where they chose to settle," Blood said without any hint of remorse.

"Briz, my name is just Briz. I know you think the money is what you want, but can you honestly look me in the eyes and tell me the deaths of little children won't haunt your nightmares? You have the chance to save an entire race."

Blood threw his head back and laughed hysterically. His wide smile made him appear ten years younger. When he abruptly stopped laughing and sneered at Briz, she took a step back, bumping into Matek. He put a single hand on her bare shoulder. She didn't shrug his touch away.

"Money is the only thing that matters to me, little girl. Grow up. Men like me and my crew would burn the world for a handful of coins. I'll give you a choice—Matek's claim or I'll turn you over to Indra. Your father's company would never be free to transport here again, but you'll be spared a pirate's touch. When he tires of you he'll cast you off to be our plaything. What fate do you choose, Briz Julius? We all make choices for our beliefs. What do you value more, your honor or your father's company?"

The girl bit her lip. To her credit she didn't flinch or look away from Blood's hateful stare. She didn't beg or cry.

"I choose to protect my father. Who in the name of the gods is Matek?"

"He's the man with his hand on your shoulder."

Briz jerked out of his touch and spun around. Her lips compressed and her brow wrinkled. The others laughed, but he kept his expression neutral, and he didn't look away until she did.

"Take her and tame her. I like mine docile," Blood said before he began a renewed session of laughter.

Matek scooped Briz up in a smooth motion. Her initial stillness spoke of her surprise, but then she began kicking and screaming. He turned and carried her down the corridor. Tanna and Okthu stomped past him and gave the girl dark looks. They'd hurt her as payback if he wasn't cautious.

Matek's throat tightened. When his people claimed a mate it was for life. There was no changing your mind once you made a public declaration of intent. The pirate code was much different, but a claim had still been made. She was his.

HER CLONE Excerpt:

"I always thought that, as clones, they would have been programmed what to think," Angela said. "Until I landed, I never realized they'd be capable of such emotion, like the hate they carried for us. Fury…"

"Lust." Damon's deep voice clipped, the husky quality sounding bitter rather than playful. Perhaps he was angered over her story she'd revealed to him. Although Damon was still a stranger, Angela realized something deeper ran between them.

She glanced over at him as they hiked on. His eyes were set on the landscape before them as if on high alert so they wouldn't encounter unexpected company once more. The intensity of his gaze and his lethal stride left Angela breathless. She shook it off. "I suppose I thought the clones would be more robotic in nature, stoic, like our own armies at home. They're programmed to do as they're told from the very first boot camp."

Angela screamed as Damon snatched her into his arms and dipped her backward. His face hovered a feather's width away from her own. "Never question this—there is no being on any planet that could not be stirred by your presence."

By the time he finished speaking, her lips were all but begging for his kiss. The heat in his gaze promised she wouldn't be disappointed. He kissed her long and slow, her body melting into his arms. His hands kneaded her curves gently, making her moan with desire as he stroked the inside of her mouth with his tongue.

The kiss broke, but instead of releasing her, Damon scooped her up and began carrying her.

Her brows furrowed automatically. "We're on a mission, not a honeymoon, Damon."

"My mission is to keep you out of harm's way. We were nearly spotted earlier, we need to lay low." He carried her toward a steep hill. "We'll hide in plain sight atop that plateau. It's small enough we won't be caught unaware, and we can watch for anyone on the ground."

"We don't have time for a field trip."

"You're wrong." Damon never faltered as he began climbing up the hill with her in his arms. "We have all the time we need, for you won't find what you're looking for. The damage was done long ago."

Angela sucked in a breath, the hurt still burning within her chest. "Aren't you a ray of sunshine?" She watched the hill slowly pass beneath Damon's feet. "I can walk, you know."

"I know." He cast her a sly grin. "I've never had something I've cherished to hold in my arms. Now I'm reluctant to let it go."

Angela raised a brow. "Jungle fever, eh?"

Damon took several long strides and soon they arrived on top of the small plateau. He laid her on the ground, a primal glint in his eyes and a smile on his lips that sent a jolt of electricity through her body. "A fever indeed."

BOND Excerpt:

He completely surprised Freya when he bent his head and kissed her. His firm lips covered hers, teased them apart until his tongue swept in to dance with hers. This wasn't the kiss of a young boy fumbling where to put his hands or how to hold his head. This was the kiss of a man claiming what was his. He took, overwhelming her, laying siege to everything she was. One of his hands cupped her breast, squeezing it through the cotton shirt to flick across the nipple.

She moaned. The sensations were so new, so raw, that he took her breath away. Freya didn't know what to do, so she went with what her body demanded and surged up, undulating her hips and thrusting her pelvis against his. The friction was so heady that she did it again, dry humping against him as a coil tightened deep inside.

He suddenly rolled away, settling next to her.

Freya was thrust into shock, her body still craved his weight, his heat.

"We need to leave," he said, panting slightly.

"What?" Her thoughts were completely discombobulated.

He sat up and wouldn't look at her. "It's a long trek back to the mountain."

"Wait! You just kissed me."

"And you just let me."

They stared at one another and all sorts of recriminations swarmed through her body. How could she kiss an alien? Betray her species? And how could she still crave his touch?

"Why did you stop?" she asked, biting her lip. She hated the fact she was so weak.

"Because you deserve something better than a bed of dirt." He sighed and ran a hand through his mop of dark hair. "Besides, we just found each other again. It's been thirteen years, Freya. We need to learn about each other again, not to mention the fact I want you to believe that I am Kory."

Author Bios

IMOGENE NIX

Imogene Nix is an author, a wife, and a mother as well as running a bookshop. When she isn’t busy fulfilling those roles, you might find her cooking, juicing fruit, or talking to the chickens in the backyard.

She is supremely interested in all things science fiction, has a secret crush on a space captain, and loves to snuggle up with her dog, Super Pup, when she’s enjoying downtime with a book.

Website: http://www.imogenenix.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImogeneNix
Twitter: @ImogeneNix

ASHLYNN MONROE

Ashlynn Monroe is a busy working mom. She loves her kids and family. Her greatest joy is creating stories to entertain others, and she hopes they bring a little more romance into the world. She’s been writing since her teens, for her own enjoyment, but decided in her thirties to share her imagination with readers. Ashlynn enjoys biking, camping, reading, video games, and filling her home and life with love. If she’s not working or chasing children, you can find her daydreaming up her next tale of romance.

Website: http://www.ashlynnmonroe.com/
Twitter: @ashlynn_monroe

JAYE SHIELDS

Jaye Shields is a flight attendant by day and romance author by night. Her addictions include reading, travel, and other activities not even a romance writer will confess to. She’s in a committed love affair with her readers so don’t be shy!

Website: http://www.jayeshields.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JayeShieldsAuthor
Twitter: @JayeShields

BETH D. CARTER

Beth D. Carter likes writing about the very ordinary girl thrust into extraordinary circumstances, so her heroines will probably never be lawyers, doctors, or corporate highrollers. She tries to write characters who aren't cookie cutters and push herself to write complicated situations that she has no idea how to resolve, forcing her to think outside the box. She loves writing characters who are real, complex, and full of flaws, heroes and heroines who find redemption through love.

Website: http://bethdcarter.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bethdcarterauthor
Twitter: @BethDCarter

Author Thursday: Interview with Blythe Gifford

My guest today is the super fabulous Blythe Gifford, and she's talking about her new release Whispers at Court.

First, I think we all need to pause and take a moment to appreciate this gorgeous cover:
Soooooo pretty. The details! The tiny flowers! THE DRESS, PEOPLE! Love it.

You may now proceed with our regularly scheduled interview. ;)

1. What flavor is your writing?

Flavor? What an interesting question! Perhaps dark chocolate. Complex, rich, and not too sweet. Maybe with a hint of salt. (Since I write medieval romance, this is not historically accurate, but tasty, nevertheless.)

2. If this book were made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?

In this case, I really did use an actress as inspiration for Lady Cecily: Olivia Wilde. There was a particular shot of her in a fashion magazine that emphasized her wide eyes and square jaw. Lovely and strong. For the hero, I didn’t use an actor, but adapted the look of Nacho Figueras, a polo player from Argentina, who’s the face of the Ralph Lauren Polo fragrance ads. I made my hero fair instead of dark, but kept the strong cheekbones and the rogue curls.
3. What is your favorite scene in WHISPERS AT COURT?

Impossible to say! And it is difficult to describe or explain a scene in isolation without understanding how it fits into the story. That said, I love a scene near the end of the book. The heroine and hero are alone together, atop what we now know as the “White Cliffs of Dover.” The heroine makes a confession and the hero makes a choice… Sigh. I hope the readers love it as much as I do.

4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?

I just came back from a few days’ vacation in Key West. While I was there, I visited the Hemingway house and that inspired me to pick up his TO HAVE AND HAVE NOT, which is about as far from a medieval romance as you can get!

5. What are you working on now?

I’ve several projects that are calling me and I haven’t committed to one yet. In addition to another Royal Wedding story, I’m also looking at a few wildly different time periods.

You can find out more about Blythe at these links:
Website: www.blythegifford.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/BlytheGiffordTwitter: @BlytheGiffordPinterest: www.pinterest.com/BlytheGifford Lady Cecily scorns the French hostages held at court. Treated as honoured guests, the men play at love games – and Cecily fears that her mistress, the Princess, might be disgraced.

War-weary chevalier Marc de Marcel wants only to return home. Uncertain whether his ransom will ever be paid, he makes an unlikely alliance with enticing fire and ice Cecily. He’ll help her keep the Princess safe from ruin if she’ll help him escape. A pact which could lead them into a scandal all their own...

Whispers at Court is available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Harlequin, iTunes, and Kobo.

Blythe Gifford writes historical romances set primarily in in England and on the Scottish Borders, most incorporating real historical events and characters. The Chicago Tribune has called her work “the perfect balance between history and romance.”

Author Thursday: Interview with Yolanda Sfetsos

Today I'm super excited to welcome Yolanda Sfetsos back to Author Thursday!

She's fabulous. :) And she's here to talk about the newest book in her sci-fi RECAST series. It sounds awesome! I love the cover (but I love all of Kanaxa's covers). ;)

1. What flavor is your writing?

I think my writing would be dark chocolate and salted caramel ice cream. There’s always a dark edge, but it’s balanced out with a good dose of smooth sensuality that takes you on a dangerous ride and leads to a sweet ending.

Okay. Maybe that’s laying it on a bit thick, but I think I need to eat some ice cream now… ;)

2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?

Taylor and Walsh were actually inspired by a certain look in two actual actors. Taylor looks like a short-haired Brittany Daniel. Walsh looks like a buff and scruffy Adrien Brody. Not sure if I would want these two actors to play them in an actual movie, but hey, that’s who I had in mind at the time.

Actually, I take that back. They should totally play Walsh and Taylor.
3. What is your favorite scene in DASH?

I like a lot of scenes in this story because I had a great time writing them. But if I have to pick one, I’m going with the scene that touched me the most. A scene that takes place towards the end of the story, and I constantly refer to as my Tribute to WALL-E. I can’t say any more than that without spoilers, though.

4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?

OMGosh. My TBR pile has been out of control for a long time and I have a feeling it will stay that way forever. LOL.

I’ve decided to stop getting overwhelmed by the number of amazing books that I want to read (right now!) and just take one at a time. Small steps, because I also want to finish a bunch of series and trilogies that I’ve left dangling because I didn’t want them to end.

I’m starting with BANISHING THE DARK by Jenn Bennett. I’m going to be sad when Arcadia’s series is over, but I need to know how it all ends…

5. What are you working on now?

At the moment I’m in the process of revising an urban fantasy novel. I’ve got one more draft left to do before I call it done. It’s actually the second Sierra Fox spin-off book I’ve written and features a character called Willow. If you’ve read the series you know exactly who that is! ;)

When I get this finalized and submitted, I want to concentrate on writing the last two RECAST books. I’d like to write them back to back because both stories are SO ready to be told.

You can find out more about Yolanda at these links:
Website: http://www.yolandasfetsos.com/Twitter: @yolandasfetsosGoodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/yolandasfetsos She escaped the arena of death, but trusting him might be the death of her.
RECAST, Book 4

Taylor may be the Clash Arena’s most dominant—and only—female gladiator, but today she just can’t catch a break. After winning yet another brutal fight, with the arena inexplicably falling down around her ears, she jumps at the chance to escape the prison of her subterranean pit.

Instead, she finds herself knocked unconscious more times than she can count, and pursued over the edge of a sea cliff by an AI enforcer she can’t shake off her heels.

Walsh has been living a double life, masquerading as a tyrant’s enforcer while hiding his true agenda. When the despicable arena falls, there’s only one thing on his mind—saving the savage blonde who doesn’t trust him as far as she can throw him. Which is a considerable distance.

Once he convinces her he’s not out to kill her but help her survive, they form an uneasy alliance. But Taylor senses he’s keeping a secret, not just from her, but about her. And the truth will show them exactly what it is to be human.

Warning: This book contains some girl-on-girl action, a kick-ass gladiator who takes no crap, an AI who puts it all on the line, a band of misfits who aren’t as merry as they seem, cute tadpoles with sharp teeth, and grip-you-by-the-hair kisses. Strap in, interstellar turbulence is a bitch.

Dash is available now at Samhain Publishing | Kindle | Kobo | iTunes | Google Play | NOOK Book | ARe

Wife. Mother. Writer. Bibliophile. Dreamer. Animal lover. Intrigued by the supernatural. Horror freak. Zombie enthusiast. Movie & music fan. Slave to her muse.

Yolanda lives in Sydney, Australia with her awesome husband, lovely daughter, and cheeky cat.

Author Thursday: Interview with Tanima Kazi

My Author Thursday guest is Tanima Kazi, and she's talking about her debut novel How to Escape an Arranged Marriage in High Heels. I love that title, and the cover is fabulous as well. :)

1. What flavor is your writing?

It is contemporary chic-lit with ethnic influences.

2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?

I love Parminder Nagra from Bend it Like Beckham. I think she would make a wonderful Maya Khan. Joseph Gordon Levitt cast as Eddie Holden would make all my dreams come true. That man (excuse me, as I fan myself, it suddenly got very warm in here) is an extremely talented actor.

3. What is your favorite scene in How to Escape an Arranged Marriage in High Heels?

Probably the first scene. My main character decides to run off on the day of her wedding. She does this by tying her wedding sari around her four-poster bed and shimmying out the window.

I think in every culture, we take a lot of time and energy in beautifying the bride. From the hair to the make-up to the jewelry and of course the dress. It is hours of laborious, detail oriented work. And to me nothing is more enjoyable than watching a bride tear it all off and say “to heck with it, I don’t need all this.” This is what inspired me to write the first scene.
4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?

The Age of Shiva by Manil Suri
Psychos (A White Girl Problems Book) by Babe Walker

5. What are you working on now?

The Cat Bunglar. It is about a klutzy apprentice who is trying to become an actual Cat Burglar. I understand it makes no sense now, but it will all come together soon (at least that’s what I keep telling myself).

You can find out more about Tanima at these links:
Website: http://tanimakazita.wix.com/tanimakaziInstagram: https://instagram.com/tanimawritesFacebook If marriage isn’t in the immediate picture, what does Maya want to do with her life?

Maya Khan wants no part of an arranged marriage. Unfortunately, she makes this discovery on the day of her wedding. Panicking, sweating, and swearing simultaneously, Maya escapes out the back window, scales down her parent’s two story house in her big, flapping sari and lands on her best friend’s sofa.

In between working as a harem waitress, going back to college and finding out her new boyfriend is engaged to her arch rival from high school, she’s still trying to figure it all out...and having the time of her life.

How to Escape an Arranged Marriage in High Heels is available at Barnes and Noble and Amazon.

Tanima Kazi loves to read: her love of reading inspires her to write. Born in Dhaka, Bangladesh, she has had the pleasure of living in many different countries such as Saudi Arabia, Canada and the United States, where she currently resides in Wheeling, Illinois.

She is working on her second novel and avoiding the beckoning call of Netflix binge watching. Traveling, writing and eating are her favorite past times.

Book Tour Tuesday: Interview with Jan DeLima

My guest today is Jan DeLima, and she's talking about her Celtic Wolves series. As part of the tour she's giving away a $100 Amazon gift card (open to U.S. and Canada) and 5 signed copies of Celtic Moon and Summer Moon (package set). Very cool. :)

1. What flavor is your writing?

Strawberry-flavored Twizzler, sweet but slightly twisted.

2. If this book was made into a movie, who would you cast to play the characters?

Sophie, the heroine of Celtic Moon, has been compared more than once to Sarah Connor of the Terminator series. Sophie is a normal human who is forced to become strong to defend her son, so I understand the comparison. An actress who can be both vulnerable and a fighter would suit her character. Kate Beckinsale comes to mind. Dylan, the hero in Celtic Moon, is so alpha/masculine. I’ve yet to think of an actor who can live up to how I picture him.

3. What is your favorite scene in the Celtic Wolves Series?

I’ve just finished Autumn Moon, Elen and Cormack’s story, the third book in the series. It will be available this autumn. Their journey begins in the first book as secondary characters and grows throughout the series. Cormack is trapped in wolf form for centuries and is freed by Elen in Celtic Moon; he learns to be human in Summer Moon, and finally has his chance to be with her in Autumn Moon. Getting these two together was emotional in many ways; their love story began centuries ago, but they were never able to be together as more than companions—until now. I’ve just posted a new excerpt on my website that is the beginning of one of my favorite scenes… http://jandelima.com/autumn-moon/

4. What are you reading now or what books do you have in your TBR pile?

I have been on a contemporary romance kick lately. Recent favorites are Cara McKenna’s InterMix books, Hard Time, After Hours, and Unbound. They’re erotic romance with heart. Her voice and character development is wonderful. As for my TBR pile—that toppled years ago. I read what my mood suits me at the time.

5. What are you working on now?

A romantic suspense that has been calling to me for some time. The heroine is very real, and the hero may be my hottest yet. My keyboard has been steaming lately. ;)
Think Fast Questions

Coffee or tea?

Coffee, usually three cups by noon.

Cats or dogs?

Both, but I only have dogs at the moment because cats aren’t safe around my oldest bulldog.

Series or standalone?

Series—and I always start with the first book and read them in order.

Winter or summer?

Both; one can’t be fully appreciated without the other.

Print or e-book?

Sadly, it’s become e-book. I love print, but it’s just so darn easy to download a book in seconds.

You can find out more about Jan at these links:
Website: http://www.jandelima.com/Twitter: @delimajanFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/delimajanGoodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6928196.Jan_DeLimaa Rafflecopter giveaway
Like father, like son...

Sophie Thibodeau has been on the run from the father of her son for more than fifteen years. Now her son, Joshua, is changing, and her greatest fears are about to be realized. He's going to end up being just like his father----a man who can change into a wolf.

Dylan Black has been hunting for Sophie since the night she ran from him----an obsession he cannot afford in the midst of an impending war. Dylan controls Rhuddin Village, an isolated town in Maine where he lives with an ancient Celtic tribe. One of the few of his clan who can still shift into a wolf, he must protect his people from the Guardians, vicious warriors who seek to destroy them.

When Sophie and Dylan come together for the sake of their son, their reunion reignites the fierce passion they once shared. For the first time in years, Dylan's lost family is within his grasp. But will he lose them all over again? Are Joshua and Sophie strong enough to fight alongside Dylan in battle? Nothing less than the fate of his tribe depends on it...

Available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Read Celtic Moon’s first chapter: http://jandelima.com/CelticMoon_Chapter1.html

She won't be ruled again...

Rosa Alban has been obedient her entire life. But when her alpha husband dies, she seizes the opportunity to flee the oppressive Guardians—the rulers of the secret shapeshifter world. Her flight instantly brands her as a pack traitor, and she has no choice but to seek protection from a neighboring tribe by marrying one of their sons.

Known as the Beast of Merin, Luc Black loyally plays the part of unwanted son and devoted brother. He realizes marrying Rosa will strengthen his tribe’s territory, but he has no intention of loving ever again. Still, he’s unprepared for the intense physical need the wild she-wolf awakens in him.

When the Guardians hone in on Rosa, Luc must fight to protect his new bride. And as war descends, the unlikely allies discover their destinies are irrevocably entwined…

Available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Read Summer Moon’s first chapter: http://jandelima.com/SummerMoon_Chapter1.html

The heart of a warrior, the soul of a wolf, and the desires of a man…

For centuries, Cormack has lived between worlds—a man trapped in the body of a wolf, shunned by humans and shifters alike. Only one person has ever welcomed his company: Elen, a kindred outcast who is feared by others of her ancient Celtic race for her strange healing abilities.

Cormack has always valued Elen’s kindness and understanding, but after a desperate act of friendship causes Elen to free him from his curse, he realizes he wants more. He wants all of her—completely and forever.Except before Cormack can win Elen’s heart, Pendaran, the evil leader of the Guardians, captures her, determined to manipulate her incredible power to aid him in his twisted war against the shapeshifting tribes.

Now Cormack must use all of his skills as a warrior and a wolf to save the woman he loves—before Pendaran’s vile schemes destroy them all…

Available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Prequel for Autumn Moon: http://jandelima.com/mshafwen_excerpt.html

Jan DeLima is the author of the Celtic Wolves novels, including Summer Moon and Celtic Moon. She lives in Maine with her husband and their two sons. Unlike many authors, Jan didn’t pen stories at an early age, but she has always been a dedicated reader. She loves stories and storytelling. It wasn’t until after her children entered school that she began writing. Raised in a military family, she lived in different countries such as Thailand and Germany, but home base has always been Maine.