Rachel Leigh's Blog, page 19

Welcome erotic romance writer, Selena Blake!

Welcome to my site, Selena! I am thrilled to be a part of your UK tour - I've seen your name on the Romantic Novelists Association loops. Are you here in the UK?? It's nice to meet you!
If you want to follow Selena on the last legs of her tour, you can find the dates here:

http://site.selena-blake.com/2012/07/the-uk-blog-tour/

Let's get started with the questions...
1)   Did you set any goals for 2012?I’m a big believer in goal setting and new year’s resolutions. So just like every year, I wrote them down. But lately setting goals has given me a bit of anxiety so I tossed them into the circular file. Last year I learned the importance of flexibility and also about working at my own pace. Sometimes the stress that goals bring isn’t as important as making progress. So that’s what 2012 is about for me. Making progress. Mostly I’ve been finishing a few projects and those were on the goal list for 2012 so I guess you could say I’ve been meeting them…on my own schedule. Not one I set seven months ago.
2)   What is the best part of the writing process for you?The best part for me is also sort of romantic in a way. It’s sort of like a wedding day, when a relationship gets glued together.
Going through the final round of revisions before I send a book anywhere is my favorite part. The romantic part. At that point the writing is out of the way. The tinkering is out of the way. And I’m just reading through for any last minute polish. This is the point where the book is whole and almost ready for the outside world to see (if you can count critique partners and beta readers and editors as the outside world.) I love this final read through because it’s at this point where I finally start to see if my hard work paid off.
3)   The worst part?When I write myself into a corner. This happens every few books or so. I’ll write the book one way and at a certain point I realize I’m missing an important element and then I have to go back to add it in and that changes several things. It’s just a lot of work and I agonize over it.
4)   What is the book you wish you’d written?Gosh. Tough question. I’d have to say Night Play by Kenyon. It’s a favorite.
5)   Favourite author/s & book/s?Kenyon, Cole, Ward. I like anything with angst filled heroes evidently and these authors know how to write them.
6)   Tell us about your latest release?Ready & Willing is my latest paranormal romance novel. I like to think of it as equal parts sass and seduction. I love that it’s different than my Stormy Series. There are some lighter moments. The world is vastly different. I started it years ago as a serial read for my fans and it’s finally finished at 28 chapters plus an epilogue.
7)   Tease us with a blurb/short except.Here’s  a little taste that I think shows the relationship between the hero and heroine.
Kaden was ready to be Alpha. He’d been doing battle all his life to become Beta of the pack. He’d proven that he was strong, smart, capable, ready and willing to defend the pack. He knew all the pack laws and all the pack members. Yes, his resume was looking stellar.“You’re not going to be Alpha,” the woman at his side said through her faux smile.It was almost like she could read his mind. He wished for a moment that he could read hers.Instead, he ducked his head closer, catching her subtle honey-vanilla fragrance. “I’d say it’s a done deal, sweetheart.”Those warm brown eyes flashed up at him with flecks of golden fire. Why had he never noticed their exquisite color before? They were like cinnamon and amber. “The deal is hardly done. Why would my father hand over the leadership of the pack to an outsider?”The last word hung in the air between them. Kaden didn’t feel like an outsider. He hadn’t for a long time. WhitePaw was his home. He had friends, a nice house, and a good job in the city. And he was Beta of the pack, a position he took seriously.“Especially since he has offspring reading and willing to do the job.”With the processional gathering in the lobby of the church, the photographer began organizing people for the photos. Kaden quickly steered Ava into a nearby room.“What—“He cut off her words. “Ready and willing, huh?”


8)   What is your favourite attribute of the hero and heroine?I like that although Ava is a hardcore shewolf when she needs to be, she’s actually quite domestic and she eventually comes to appreciate her femininity.
What I love about Kaden is that he’s a delightful mix between take charge Alpha male and subtly sweet gentleman.
9)   What’s next?I’m currently finishing my first werelion book. It’s about a reclusive millionaire werelion who once fought in the Coliseum in Rome and the beautiful young empath who sooths the beast inside him.
10)                  Tell me where you write?Usually at my desk, but sometimes from the couch, it depends on the mood of the scene really. For more active scenes, I really like being upright with nothing but a keyboard in my lap. For slower, more emotional, sensual scenes, somewhere comfortable like the couch works nicely.
11)                  Where would you like your career to be in 5 years?In five years I want to be writing books that my readers love and share, which is essentially where I’m at now. J
12)       Where can we find you?My website is a great place to start: http://Selena-blake.com. I have a newsletter there that gives subscribers access to exclusives and four free reads. I’m fairly active on my facebook page as well: https://www.facebook.com/authorSelenaBlake. My readers and I have a lot of fun there chatting about books and characters.
You can also find me on twitter where I chat with folks and share favorite quotes as well as important announcements: http://twitter.com/selenablake
Comments??

Saturday Promo - Randi Alexander...

Blurb:
Mackenzie Jarvis has never slept with a woman. So why has she fallen madly in lust with Gina Volto, host of the reality cooking show Mackenzie is competing in? Mackenzie's wild desire to live out her fantasy battles with her conservative Wyoming values. Then Gina pours on the seduction, Mackenzie runs--home to her ranch, her horses, and her busy career as the owner and chef of a restaurant. But Gina shows up at her ranch in a snowstorm, and Mackenzie allows herself one weekend of forbidden, kinky pleasure.

When Gina admits she wants more than just a few days, can Mackenzie ignore her upbringing and her plans for a traditional life with a husband and children? Or will she give in and turn up the heat?

Excerpt:

“Okay,” Gina said. “Open your eyes.”

Mackenzie did, finding Gina’s face just inches away. Gina stared intently into her eyes, rekindling the fire that smoldered low in her belly. Mackenzie couldn’t breathe, her body tensing with anticipation. She parted her lips slightly to suck in air. Would Gina take it as an invitation?

Gina’s gaze dropped to Mackenzie’s lips and stayed for long seconds. “Your lips…” Gina’s tongue slicked over her own lips as she backed away. “They’re a great color.” She turned to the counter and picked up a tube. “Just clear gloss, I think.”

Mackenzie swallowed, jittery with excitement and hollow with nervousness.

Gina slicked on the gloss, dabbed a little foundation, and brushed pink highlighter on her cheeks. Turning her chair so she faced the mirror, she said, “Ta-da!”

Mackenzie looked good. Really, really good. Surprising. Her eyes glowed bright blue. The contouring cheek color made her face look less chubby.

“How did you do this?” As if she’d ever recreate this look at home. Mackenzie rarely bothered with anything but waterproof mascara. In a restaurant kitchen, everything else melted off in the heat and humidity. She stood, still gawking at the strange reflection in the mirror. “Gina, you are an artist.”

Gina smiled and leaned in closer to brush her fingers over Mackenzie’s cheek. “You have beautiful skin.”

Their eyes met, and Mackenzie held her breath. Would there be a kiss now? Would Gina wrap her hand around Mackenzie’s neck and pull her close, press her lush mouth to hers, lap her with her tongue? Then what? The couch on the other end of the dressing room? Would Gina lock the door, dim the lights, and peel off her dress? Reveal those pink panties and even pinker pussy lips?

Mackenzie’s body hummed with desire as she waited, afraid to make the first move. Afraid Gina wouldn’t.

Buy Link:

http://www.wilderroses.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=87&products_id=884

Welcome multi-published author, Carrie Ann Ryan!

Welcome back to my blog, Carrie Ann! It feels to me as though you have one release after another to promote, lol! You must be one prolific writer. I'd love to know more about your schedule and how you appear to get so much work done. In the meantime, looking forward to your post today. 
Over to you!
Sexy Heroes
When you read a romance novel you're guaranteed a few things. If it's a true romance, will get your happy ever after. You get a heroine you'll want to be or want to throw off a cliff. It really depends on my mood. *wink* You’ll find yourself cheering up sometimes, and fanning her face at other times. He lives to the emotional roller coaster of having these two characters fall mild while the outside world may try to pull them apart. You'll gasp, clinch the side of your book or Kindle, sit on the edge of your seat suspense.And if you're reading a good romance, the finder sexy hero. Sure, he may not be sexy on the outside, but he could be damn well sexy on the inside. Reading a romance novel is an escape, we know it. Look outside of the people around you, you know that not every heroine and hero is real life. You know that we see in real life, may not be the perfect romance. And that's okay, that's why we dive into these worlds and me find new people. Life isn't perfect, and neither are our heroes.Sure they could have eight pack abs, that chiseled jaw, strong muscles, the eyes that twinkle or smolder. They could have that growly voice and that alpha male tendency to take over. But then they could be tortured, scarred, sweet, beta, an ass….They could be anything.

And that's what makes him sexy. No matter how sexy is on the outside, what we leave with after reading is how sexy he is on the inside. It's how he takes care of his heroine. She needs to know that yes he can protect her, but she needs to build a protector self. And he needs to let it happen. He needs to know that she can be the one to protect him.And he needs to be man enough to let it happen.That's what makes a sexy hero. The duality of being that strong man who cares. So yes he could have this ice blue eyes, the black wings dipped in blue, and chiseled caramel colored skin (yes, I’m talking to you, my hero Shade from Dust of My Wings), but if you didn't have the personality to back that up, he wouldn't be as sexy to me.So what do you think defines a sexy hero? Visit his looks or the way he acts smart or is it both. Or does it really matter?


Dust of My Wingsby Carrie Ann Ryan
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
BLURB:
Humans aren’t as alone as they choose to believe. Every human possesses a trait of supernatural that lays dormant within their genetic make-up. Centuries of diluting and breeding have allowed humans to think they are alone and untouched by magic. But what happens when something changes?
Neat freak lab tech, Lily Banner lives her life as any ordinary human. She’s dedicated to her work and loves to hang out with her friends at Dante’s Circle, their local bar. When she discovers a strange blue dust at work she meets a handsome stranger holding secrets – and maybe her heart. But after a close call with a thunderstorm, she may not be as ordinary as she thinks.
Shade Griffin is a warrior angel

EXCERPT
 Lily huffed out a breath and placed another tile. “I don’t hate my job, exactly. It’s just not that big of a deal.” She gave a triumphant smile. “And I win.”
Shade looked into her eyes and groaned. Damn, she was sexy when she looked so confident.
“Indeed you did. Congratulations, Lily.” Now for the part that could hurt them both. “How about I buy you a cup of coffee as your winnings?”
Lily looked taken aback, but Shade didn’t budge. He needed to know exactly what she knew about this dust. Breaking into her lab and stealing it would do nothing if the die were already cast.
“Oh, you don’t have to do that. In fact, I really don’t even know you, so I can’t. But thank you.”
She gathered the tiles quickly and started to stand up, but Shade touched her wrist. She jumped, knocking a few tiles back on the table. A jolt of electricity ricocheted through his arm and they both gasped. His erection pressed against the zipper of his jeans and he groaned, but he didn’t let go. Lily’s breath quickened and her pupils dilated. Her strawberry scent wrapped around him like velvet, intoxicating.


AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Carrie Ann Ryan is a bestselling paranormal and contemporary romance author. After spending too much time behind a lab bench, she decided to dive into the romance world and find her werewolf mate - even if its just in her books. Happy endings are always near - even if you have to get over the challenges of falling in love first.

Her first book, An Alpha's Path, is the first in her Redwood Pack series. She's also an avid reader and lover of romance and fiction novels. She loves meeting new authors and new worlds. Any recommendations you have are appreciated. Carrie Ann lives in New England with her husband and two kittens.

Carrie Ann loves hearing from readers. You can find her at:

Website:  http://www.carrieannryan.com/
Blog:  http://carrieannryan.blogspot.com/
Heartthrob Haven:  http://heartthrobhaven.blogspot.com/
Facebook Author Page:  http://www.facebook.com/pages/Carrie-Ann-Ryans-Author-Page/243643205647654
Facebook Friend:  http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002584098860
 Goodreads |:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5360266.Carrie_Ann_Ryan
Twitter: @CarrieAnnRyan
 Tumblr :  http://carrieannryan.tumblr.com/

An Alpha’s Path  Amazon  Barnes & Noble ARe
A Taste for a Mate Amazon Barnes & Noble ARe
Trinity Bound  Amazon Barnes&Noble ARe
Carrie Ann will be awarding Dust of my Wings "swag" packs to one commenter at ever stop, a $25 Amazon GC and necklace (pictured included in attachments) to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour and a $10 Amazon GC to the host with the most comments (excluding the author's and the host's).
Follow the tour and comment; the more you comment, the better your chances of winning. The tour dates can be found here:  http://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2012/05/virtual-book-tour-dust-of-my-wings-by.html
Comments?

Saturday Promo - Kelli Zel...

Blurb:

Preston Moore was Rose Juan's biggest regret. A year ago they shared a toe curling kiss but they never closed the deal. When Rose runs into Preston at an open house she's tempted to show him her own hot properties. Or will Preston make an offer of his own?

Excerpt:
He was either ignoring her or he didn’t hear her because he marched right over to the pool and stooped beside the fragrant lime gelatin. The width of his shoulders strained against the white cotton shirt.

Her hands throbbed with the need to tangle in the thick black hair at the nape of his neck and slowly ramble across his back before yanking him tight to her aching, heavy breasts.

He poked the green waters as he balanced on the balls of his feet.

She inched slowly forward. “Oh look.” Rose pointed to the center of the pool. “Those are my sunglasses. Could you grab them?”

“Sure.” Preston stretched out and plucked the sunnies from the middle of the pool. As he handed them back, she leaned forward to grab them. Her foot slipped. She shrieked as her left hand slid over his firm ass and caught between his thighs. She struggled to stay up, failed, and knocked him down.

Instead of a splash, there was a giant sucking, slurping sound as he face-planted in the big green pool of slime.

Rose quickly climbed off Preston and scrambled to her feet. Before she could ask if he needed a hand, he was standing beside her with specks of green scattered across his shirt and face. “What type of people put—”

“Amber.” The name put a smile on her face. “My old co-worker surprised her husband with a bath of gelatin one night, and for a week after, she came to work with an orange glow.”

Preston laughed. “I can’t believe she would have told you. I’ve heard of whipped cream, mud wrestling, but a bathtub of gelatin.”

“I know. Can you imagine how sticky you’d be?”

“Hmm,” he licked his lips. “You’ve got a little green something on your cheek.” He leaned closer. “I can think of a few things I’d like to taste with you.”
Buy Link:
http://www.wilderroses.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=86&products_id=888

Welcome fellow Wild Rose Press author, Maxine Mansfield!

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 Hi Maxine! Welcome back to my humble abode :) I am happy to have you here to help celebrate your new release. Love your cover, it's gorgeous!
Thank you Rachel for having me. It is such a treat to be featured on your Blog.
1: When and why did you decide you wanted to be a published author?
For as long as I can remember, I have written stories and developed characters and plots in my head. But the desire to actually be published? That came about twelve years ago when I was going through a very difficult time in my life, and it was the stories I read that took me away and gave me peace of mind for awhile. I decided then, that I wanted to do for others what had been done for me.
2: What is the best and worse thing you have learned from an editor/agent?
I think the best thing I have learned is that when the book is done the book is done and you have to let it go. That was a hard lesson for me. Left to my own devices, I would rewrite forever. Thank god for an editor who keeps me in check. The worst thing I ever learned was the bad habit of eating my meals at the computer screen just like a lot of my fellow authors do. You have no idea how many keyboards I’ve destroyed with soda.
3: Favorite author/s?
Wow, there are so many. I love love love Julia Quinn, Monica McCarty, and Tessa Dare, for their historicals. Lizbeth Selvig and Jennifer Bernard for their contemporaries, Donna Grant for her paranormals, Tam Linsey for her Scifi, Susan Collins for her YA Huger Games, and Rollins for Harry Potter. I love books, all genres, all lengths, all types. I just want to hug them and squeeze them.
4: What is your typical day?
I’m not sure I have a typical day. I work three twelve hour night shifts a week at a job that has nothing to do with writing. And no, I’m not a prostitute, but I sure wouldn’t mind interviewing one for love scene variety. My imagination only goes so far these days. [image error]

5: Share your blurb or short excerpt from your latest release with us
Served: Beach volleyball player Sam Waterson knows he made a mistake--a really big one--three years ago when paparazzi interrupted his jubilant celebration with sexy Carlos Delacruz, the love of Sam's life, and with their ménage partner Drew Eversly...and Sam blamed the public exposure on the wrong man. But fate has given him a second chance to prove his prowess on the sun-baked beach volleyball court and at loving the sensual man who has unknowingly held his heart. Can he--or Carlos or Drew--win a spot on the team? But even beyond sweating it out on the court and regaining the spot they had to forfeit three years ago, can Sam win back Carlos's heart? Sam needs to show Carlos that he can spike and score where it counts...between the sheets.
6: Who would you cast to play your hero & heroine in a movie?
Well, it’s all hero’s and no heroine so if I could have my pick for the main character Sam who is a cowboy from Montana I’d so pick Channing Tatum. For his saucy Puerto Rican partner Carlos from New York I’d choose Joaquin Phoenix. And for their ménage partner Drew who is an artist from San Francisco, I’d have to go with Liam Hemsworth. Wouldn’t watching those three together make your mouth water and your knees quiver?
7: Did you plan this book? Or write it as it came?
There was a call out at The Wild Rose Press for Boys of Summer stories and so I plotted out Served, my beach volleyball story (because I am a complete and total plotter) and submitted it. I had never written a male/male story before, let alone male/male/male. It was a unique challenge, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
8: What surprised you the most when you became a published?
I think what surprised me the most was how much things changed yet stayed the same. Over was the waiting for edits (for this book anyway) and the waiting for promo opportunities, blogs, sales reports, and deadlines for the next book began. At the same time, my grandchildren keep me very grounded. They don’t care what I write or how many books I have out, as long as Nana can afford to take them to McDonalds for lunch once in awhile. We all must have priorities I suppose.
9:Do you have a dedicated writing space? What does it look like?
I actually have a very nice office with a computer in it and everything. Do I actually write there? Nope, I prefer to write on my laptop at the dinning room table or relaxing in my (Barbara Cartland) style chase lounge.
10: What’s next for you?
The second in my erotic fantasy series is do out this fall. Tempted by the Storm: Lark has always been just the younger sister of Princess Aryanna. Never quite as pretty, or as smart, or as anything. A chance encounter with the handsome high elf, Prince Sarco Sunwalker, while at Carnalval, changes her entire world. How can fate be so unkind as to destine the one and only man in all of Albrath Lark could ever love, to be the self same man who must marry her sister because of an eight-hundred year old prophecy? Or is it fate at all? When this barbarian princess and elfin wizard are once more thrown together at The Academy of Magical Arts, lightning strikes, and thunder roars as they are both Tempted by the Storm. If you enjoyed Touched by the Magic, you will certainly like Tempted by the Storm.
Served can be found at: http://www.wilderroses.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=86&products_id=887also at amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, and where ever e-books are sold Visit Maxine Mansfield at www.maxinemansfield.comOn Facebook I am Maxine Mansfield, and on Twitter, look for leekyshortz Thanks for being here, Maxine - I have to ask...where did the Twitter name come from? LOL!!!Comments? 
    

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Looking for Blog Hosts!!

Good morning, lovelies!!

I am in the process of arranging a blog tour for my upcoming release, "Hot Summer Sands"(available August 17th) and looking for some other erotic romance sites to visit. Would any of you writers out there be willing to offer me a place on your blog? I'd love an interview but more than happy to write a post - entirely up to you!

Here's the blurb and an excerpt:


Blurb
Chef Michelle Hutton flees her controlling mother in the UK for the sun and freedom of Greece, longing for a new beginning and maybe just a bit of Zante’s local heat. Sexy, pro-bono lawyer Sam Clarke might just be the one to teach her to let go. He's sexy, capable, and totally in control. And too damn hard to resist.
Sam Clarke and his best friend had once been the baddest boys to hit the local party scene— sex, booze, and more sex—until his friend is killed. Sam turned his back on the blatant sexuality of the island years ago, but can’t resist Michelle’s desire to bask in the sun and explore the need that grows between them.
Excerpt
Closer and closer he came, rounding the counter and standing so close to her that Michelle was forced to tip her head back to meet his eyes. The smell of him – warm, musky and clean--wafted under her nose. She inhaled…aBuy Link:
http://www.wilderroses.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=182&products_id=895

Welcome fellow Wild Rose Press author, M M Bordeaux!

 It's great to welcome another Wild Rose Press author to my blog today! And what a delicious array of handsomeness adorns this fabulous cover...how can a girl's eyes not be drawn to it?? I'd love Ms Bordeaux to share the name of the cover artist - he or she most definitely deserves an acknowledgment, lol!
Okay, now I've stopped lusting, let's start with the questions...
1) When and why did you decide to be a published author? In my early career as a graphic designer I was fortunate to spend several years working for firms in Europe. I began writing advertising and promotional copy to accompany my design concepts. I came to enjoy writing and decided to try my hand at fiction. I was successful getting my short erotic fiction published and finally decided to try a full-length book. I’m delighted that the Wild Rose Press has published my first erotic romance.
2) What is the best and worst thing you’ve learned from an editor? I think one of the best things I’ve learned from an editor is not to be too attached to “little darlings” that sound great but don’t really advance the story. Sometimes whole pages can be eliminated, which end up making the book better and the story tighter. I’ve also learned how easy it is to slip out of POV. My editor at TWRP, Angela Anderson, was also great in confronting me about what my characters were feeling, what’s in their head at any given moment, what’s behind the dialogue that they are having. I’ve heard horror stories from first time authors, but my editorial experience was great. I actually can’t think of any bad things I’ve learned, at least not from an editor.
3) Favorite authors? There are so many great authors I like that it’s hard to narrow it down! I like Opal Carew a lot. She writes hot stories that appeal to me. Maya Banks and Jaci Burton are also favorites. At TWRP, Randi Alexander’s new book “Turn Up the Heat” has some sexy f/f scenes. I haven’t written female/female relationships yet but that could be fun. Desiree Holt’s new book, “Buckskin, Boots and Bondage” has some hot ménage scenes, which, if you read “One Hard Ride,” you’ll know appeal to me. She also writes sexy bondage scenes which I might try writing someday.
4) Typical day?  My days are usually split between my design work and writing. Not on a particular schedule, but as time, projects, and three helpful cats allow.
 5) BlurbAmanda Sloane's passion has been solely focused on becoming a well-respected, NYC art appraiser. With that appetite sated, she can no longer ignore her body's carnal desires. Tasked with authenticating an uncataloged Randell painting that could be worth millions, she meets a trio of Texas ranch hands who take her on an erotic ride imagined only in her deepest fantasy. Between ranch owners, Jake and Justin Morgan, and their ranch foreman, Luke, the cowboys ignite in Amanda a raging fire of uninhibited sexuality. For years, the Morgan brothers have fought off their greedy cousin's attempts to take their ranch, including poison and sabotage. Now, Jake is counting on the elegant and sophisticated art appraiser to authenticate his grandaddy's painting to stave off foreclosure on the family ranch. Awakening the big city vixen's sexual hunger has his body ablaze with need and his heart yearning for love. Can Amanda give up the intoxicating pleasure of her sexual awakening? Or is Jake's love unconditional enough to encourage her to continue her erotic odyssey?
6) Who would you cast to play hero and heroine in a movie? I hesitate to say because I think the reader should have his or her own idea of who the characters are and what they look like. There has been a lot of buzz recently about Christian Grey in “Fifty Shades of Grey.” The composite drawing I saw didn’t look anything like I imagined the character.
7) Did you plan the book or write it as it came? I had a half dozen scenes in mind that were spaced out from the beginning to the end of the book. These scenes set the basic story I wanted to tell, and established the relationships, sexual and otherwise, between the characters. The rest of the book was written as it came, to tie all the primary scenes together.
8) What surprised you the most when you became published? How much fun it is to find “One Hard Ride” on Amazon!
9) Do you have a dedicated writing space, and what does it look like?  I write at a desk and worktable in an office for design projects which are pushed aside when I want/need to write.
10) What’s next? I’m working on a new book and two short stories (or novellas). Ummm. MI can be reached via my blog at www.mmbordeaux.com .
Great interview! I really enjoyed finding out more about you and your work - okay, over to you guys, comments???

Welcome multi-published erotic romance author, Dana Littlejohn!

Welcome, Dana! I'm sure I am right in saying this is your second visit to my site so it's great to see you again. I am loving your website and all the fantastic titles you have currently available. You are certainly riding the wave! Let's get started with the questions...
1)   Did you set any goals for 2012? Yes! I wanted to get at least five books out this year and finish at least 3 on my to-do list including a full length novel.
2)   What is the best part of the writing process for you?The research, for sure! Depending on the genre the research is sooo much fun. I learn so much that most of it doesn’t even make the book.
3)   The worst part?The research. LOL Sometimes it can be tedious, but you want to be factual and correct when you say something in your book that can be checked out.
4)   What is the book you wish you’d written?I always wanted to do a murder mystery. I have been putting it off for years, but I think it is time. It is one of the books on my to-do list to finish this year.
5)   Favorite author/s & book/s?My favorite author is Bertrice Small and the book is her To Love Again. I absolutely love it. I read it a couple of times a year and I it gets better every time.
6)   Tell us about your latest release?My latest release is book 3 of my Erotes series: Charles’ Goddess.
7)   Tease us with a blurb/short exceptGoddess Herophile is set for punishment by Zeus for misusing the powers given to her from her father, Poseidon, causing precious humans harm and distress. Aphrodite, her mother, and the Erotes, her brothers, only have one chance to save Herophile from further harm once Zeus carries out his sentence. Will it be enough time to enhance Aphrodite’s dormant gifts and make Herophile’s future better than her present?“You are by far the loveliest, most alluring woman I have ever seen,” he expressed in an amazed tone. He scoffed then shook his head as he left his seat to pace the floor. “I confess I did not know what to expect. For many years I have sated my lust on beautiful females, never limiting myself to a particular type, per se. Thus, I had no idea of the attributes the woman sent to me would have.”
Angel watched the man curiously as he moved back and forth babbling, mostly to himself rather than to her.
“Then,” he said, thrusting his finger into the air. “On wisdom not my own, I left it to the gods to choose who was best for me.” He stopped then turned an appreciative eye to her. “And, bless my soul, I am truly pleased with their choice,” he concluded with a triumphant smile.
The man stood at the foot of the bed looking at her as if waiting for her to comment. Angel stared at him, her head tilted and eyes narrowed in confusion.
“Who are you? And what are you doing in my chamber?”
Obvious confusion twisted his features. “Excuse me? I beg to differ, Madam, but you are in my bedroom.”

8)   What is your favorite attribute of the hero and heroine?I love how Angel adapts, but doesn’t completely lose her wild streak when she is made to change her behavior to suit her situation.
9)   What’s next?There is a book 4 to complete the series and then in the fall there is book one in an African goddess series, Conquering the Sun.
10)                  Tell me where you write?Although I have a desk and space to write in the corner of my living room, you can mostly find me on the couch with my laptop in my lap. I feel closer to my family that way.

11)                  Where would you like your career to be in 5 years?I want to write a movie script. I would love to see one of my novels on the big screen. Hey! It can happen.
12)                  Where can we find you?I have a facebook page, www.facebook.com/liljohndanatwitter: www.twitter.com/authordanalittlejohnwebsite: www.danalittlejohn.net and a blog: www.authordanalittlejohn.blogspot.com


To Have and To Holdby Dana Littlejohn
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
BLURB:
Christian and Andrea Cooper had made many plans on what they would do when their children were finally out of the house. Now that they were gone their plans had hit a snag. Christian had the chance to start his own company and promised to put their plans in motion as soon as it was off the ground. Andrea agreed to those terms, but she had no idea how lonely and neglected she would feel while she waited. On a trip to the city in search of something to do she ran into Raymond Reyes, her first love. Reminiscing with Ray brought back a flood of emotions that she found difficult to ignore. Did she make the right decision by marrying Christian after all? Could Ray convince her that this was their second chance and they were meant to be together?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
EXCERPT
Yes! Finally, a notch on the positive side of the sex chart,” her brain screamed joyfully as her body prepared itself for his entry.
He knew where to touch her, where to move, when to go fast and when to slow down. It was wonderful! Just as it always was, just like she remembered. She started to climb that golden staircase to bliss, reveling in the feeling he was giving her and then…it was over. He stopped.
Her eyes popped open. “Christian? What’s wrong? What happened?”
“I’m sorry, Andrea. I guess I got a little too excited,” he confessed, and rolled off her.
She stared at the ceiling wide-eyed. “What? You got—”
“I know, baby. I’m sorry. I promise I’ll make it up to you tomorrow.”
Andrea still stared at the ceiling as he moved around next to her. “Huh? But—” She heard his soft snores and turned over to him. “Christian?” She pushed his shoulder. “Christian!”
“Tomorrow, Andrea, I promise. I love you,” he mumbled, before his snores filled the room.
She muffled a frustrated outburst and then pulled the sheets over them. She turned over and punched her pillow.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
AUTHOR Bio:
Dana Littlejohn was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, but has called Indianapolis, IN her home for over ten years. She works a nine to five at a nearby doctor's office while she pursues her dream of writing. Her writing to-do list grows daily. Stop by Dana's website to see what she's doing next . It's a ride you will not soon forget!
Dana will be awarding five prizes, one randomly chosen commenter at each tour stop will win a prize. All are promo items displaying a different Dana Littlejohn design: 2- t-shirts (size XL), 1 coffee mug, 1 ink pen (black ink) and 1 baseball style hat .
Follow the tour and comment; the more you comment, the better your chances of winning. The tour dates can be found here:  http://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2012/06/virtual-book-tour-to-have-and-to-hold.html
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Welcome Lazy Day author, Marcus Lopes...

Today, I am welcoming Marcus Lopes to my site with his debut release, "Freestyle Love" - Marcus is on a blog tour throughout July so why not pop by each stop and be in with a chance to win! Details of Marcus' prize is at the end of his fabulous interview.
Take it away, Marcus!
1)  Who is your favourite author and why?
My favourite author is Iris Murdoch. I enjoy Mrudoch’s attention to detail, the way she makes her characters come alive — sometimes I want to root for them, other times I’m hopeful that they will fail. What I enjoy in Murdoch’s works is the relentless search for hope and love in a world that can be, at times, unsteady and dark.
2)  When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I began to think of myself as a writer around age twenty-five. I had just moved to Ottawa (Ontario), and I was determined to make writing an integral part of my day. And I did. I wrote (and still do write) faithfully first thing in the morning. I would spend my lunch hour writing. I would go to a coffee shop and writing before heading hope after a day at the office.
3)  Describe your writing space?
My writing space is the upstairs bedroom I use as my office. My desk is pushed up against the wall, in part to keep me focused on my writing and not on what is going on outside on the street, but also to let me reread the quotes that inspire me. Specifically, Charlie Chaplin’s “As I Began to Love Myself.” Also on the wall above my desk is a landscape watercolour painting done by my grade school art teacher. To the right of the door there are two beige armchairs where I often read. On the wall above the chair is one of my paintings, “When Night Falls I,” the title piece of my newest series of paintings. My framed university diploma is on the wall next to the window that offers a view onto the street below.
4)  What are you reading now?
I am currently reading Julia Cameron’s Faith and Will: Weathering the Storms in Our Spiritual Lives, Brenda Ueland’s If You Want to Write: A Book about Art, Independence and Spirit, and Iris Murdoch’s Existentialists and Mystics: Writings on Philosophy and Literature.
5)  How many books have your written?  Which is your favourite?
Freestyle Love is my first (published) book, so for now it’s my favourite.
6)  What comes first, plot or characters?
Sometimes plot comes first, sometimes it’s a character that I hear in my head, a scrap of dialogue that I have to get down. But more often than not, whether it’s the plot or a character that starts me writing, I let the characters — their interactions with each other — drive the story initially. Then, once the draft is completed, I set about to put the pieces together, and in the right order. So I guess it’s fair to say that I let the characters get inside my head and let them “lead me.”

7)  Do you ever suffer from writer’s block?
I’ve never experienced writer’s block. I sit down and write every day. Sometimes the writing is easy, sometimes I feel like I’m writing uphill. But I write. Like today. I work to my daily quota and then, and only then, am I free to do as I please.

8)  What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
When I’m not writing, I like to run, hike, read, cook, playing the piano, travel, and spend time with friends and family. I’m also a painter, so that keeps me busy, too.
9)  Tell us about your latest book?
My latest, and first, book is Freestyle Love. In many ways, Freestyle Love is not your typical romance novel. Love may be the novel’s currency, but it’s really the characters’ actions and reactions — how they interact in love — that interests me. Sometimes we let our experiences define who we are, and that is the trap that Malachi Bishop involuntary falls into. Malachi is far from perfect — although I think in his mind he’d disagree. He’s arrogant and uncompromising, held to the “It’s my way or the highway” mentality. Malachi becomes a character people love to hate. So Malachi, on an unexpected journey of self-discovery, experiences a sort of great awakening, moving from “denial” to acceptance of the man he thought he was to the man, at the end of the novel, who he becomes.

10) What’s next for you?
What’s next for me? To keep writing, and where that leads me, time will tell.
Blurb:When it comes to one-night stands, Malachi Bishop has “rules”. No pillow talk. No sleeping over. No planning a future hook-up. First names only. It’s just sex, not a prelude to love. But when Cole Malcolm, a smooth-talking management consultant, woos Malachi into bed, the rulebook is tossed out the window. The one-time fling leaves Cole reeling: Malachi is his first real shot at happiness, his “forever” man, and he’s determined to show Malachi just how good they could be together. But Malachi doesn’t believe in happily-ever-after, and dodges Cole’s play for his heart. After all, Malachi is still mourning the loss of Taylor Blanchard, whom he hoped to love forever. Then there’s Zach Brennan, a handsome twenty-five-year-old and student at the college where Malachi teaches. Falling for Zach could destroy everything he’s worked for, but Malachi can’t help himself.
Caught by love and in its betrayal, it’s a later affair with a beautiful stranger that changes Malachi’s life most dramatically. Now Malachi must confront his present and his past that bring into question the larger fantasies of home and his place in the world.
Excerpt:
As Cole Malcolm asked the server for his bill, Malachi Bishop was across town, alone in his condo, pouring himself a stiff drink. Malachi picked up the crystal tumbler and moved into the living room, standing in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows and watching as the dark storm clouds edged their way eastward, dulling the bright sky. His unit, located just below the penthouse level, offered a view of the west side of Claredon, including the college. And Malachi was right, as he had explained to Shane Martin, that on a clear day he could see to Chemong Lake.
Malachi sat down on the worn brown leather sofa and stared blankly at the TV. Am I unreal? Malachi lifted his glass to his mouth and held it there. Tuesdays, when he taught three of his four classes, left him drained. Today he was exhausted. Malachi’s day started off with the advanced writing workshop, and Zach Brennan had not shown up again. Malachi had taught the ninety-minute English literature course that started right after the lunch break pausing often, as if he were unable to weave together, and hold, a train of thought. One of his students asked if he was okay, to which he replied, “I’m fine,” with great defence, and then dismissed the class — forty minutes early. When all of the students had left the classroom, Malachi sat down at his desk and wrote out a notice cancelling the creative writing class he was to teach later that afternoon. He posted the notice to his classroom door and then made for home.
Beyond the usually long day of teaching, beyond the ordinariness of his life, Malachi was caught up in the paralyzing, awful, blackly saddening events of the day. In the aftermath of the day’s events, his perception of his life in Claredon had shifted, seen now as imaginary and formless, indeed a fabrication. There remained a contradiction because he knew that there was an inescapable realness to Claredon where he had, over the past five years, carved out a home. And in that realness there was Zach Brennan.

About the Author:Marcus Lopés is originally from Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia. His writing has appeared in Canadian and international literary magazines. Freestyle Love is his first novel. A novelist, essayist, poet, painter and singer-songwriter, Lopés lives in Sherbrooke, Québec.
Website: www.marcuslopes.caEmail: marcus@marcuslopes.ca
Click here to win!!!
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f92c8628/"
Link to schedule: http://cblspromotions.blogspot.com/2012/07/vbt-freestyle-love-by-marcus-lopes.html
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Welcome Decadent Publishing author, KevaD!

Hi, KevaD! Great to have you here and to be a part of your ongoing tour - I have heard so many fantastic things about Decadent Publishing even though I haven't submitted anything to them yet. They certainly seem to be going from strength to strength - any insider tips for my visitors and I??
Greetings!I want to thank Ms. Leigh for having the courage and courtesy to allow me to be here today.
I’m David Kentner, a prize-winning author and journalist. As KevaD (Dave K backwards), I write mystery, suspense, horror, comedy, contemporary, historical – pretty much whatever story is demanding to be told. The one common thread in everything I write is love. I can’t help it. There has to be some sort of love story or interest, even if that love is a bit convoluted and perverted. Yes, I’ve gone there. In my short story psychological horror series Catherine’s Toys, the main character is in physical and emotional love with his alter ego, the sexually insatiable Catherine. Yes, it’s very strange, and, no, it’s not an autobiography.
But, that’s why I love writing. Authors have the freedom to explore anywhere and everywhere our imaginations take us. My stories range from sweet and innocent to Holy Hannah break out the asbestos gloves – from first love to an abused sex slave who kills her latest owner and tries to find the home and family she’s never known and may not have – from contemporary to the Civil War to a 1955 setting the Historic Novel Society termed “dead on” for accuracy.
I’m married – my wife reminds me of that fact every payday when she scarfs up my check – and live in northwestern Illinois about 120 miles or so due west of Chicago. My secondary hobby these days is buying and selling farm style antiques. It’s fun. I guess I don’t really need any other reason for doing it. My primary hobby is writing the weekly national column The Readers’ Writers where I interview authors for GateHouse News Service. Again, it’s fun. I’ve met, sort of, a lot of truly wonderful writers who keep me in awe of their work. I suppose, in a way, I’m an author groupie. Talented storytellers really do fascinate me.
On the reading side of things, I read just about anything and everything. There isn’t a genre that doesn’t have a place on my bookshelves, and I enjoy nothing more than discovering a new author who grabs my attention with their masterful prose and captivating plots. I’m not a fan of cookie cutter. If the story and characters aren’t original and non-formulaic, I probably won’t read much past the first few pages. But that’s because I believe reading should be – here it comes again – fun! If it isn’t, what’s the point? I love imagination, which brings us to why I’m here today.
My latest release Kantu’s Heart, a time travel romantic suspense novel published by Decadent Publishing as part of their Western Escape line – aren’t you glad the commercial break is finished? – is an example of imagination run amuck.
The story opens with the murders of Kantu and his mate, his heart, Sanda. They’re cave dwellers who lived and loved fifty thousand years ago. Kantu awakens in contemporary Freewill, Wyoming. Confused and saddened by what man has done to the world he knew, Kantu is convinced his ancient deities are punishing him for failing to protect his mate. That is, until he spots a woman he believes to be Sanda in the arms of the man who killed her.
Sandra Harn has no idea why the regal, proud, and probably insane Native American standing in the middle of a rodeo arena has awakened an intense need within her. After all, the man is offering to fight to the death the entire Crow Indian nation in order to spare the life of a bull. When the self-proclaimed warrior suddenly turns and unleashes his unfurled fury on her male companion, Sandra’s mind screams run, while her body begs to surrender.
Kantu’s Heart is a mixture of historical, contemporary, and Native American lore and mythology. The real challenge was keeping Kantu’s appearance in the modern world from eroding to a cartoonish character fumbling through comical situations. That’s just not who he is. He’s a strong, skilled, and decisive warrior with little use for insincere words.
Sandra/Sanda was also a bit of a challenge in that she isn’t aware of her past life, and, because of that, needed a conveyance to bring that part of her to a level of consciousness. Once more, I drew on Native American beliefs and provided her the gift of confusing visions that Kantu’s presence unravels for her.
Thanks for visiting with me. I truly do appreciate it and hope to see you again.
Title: Kantu's Heart (DP’s “Western Escape” Series)Author: KevaDPublisher: Decadent PublishingLength: 159 pagesMain Sub-Genres: Contemporary Romance, Romantic SuspenseSub-Categories: Erotic
Available at:Decadent Publishing | Amazon| BookStrand | ARe
Blurb:Before the ice age, warrior Kantu lost his tribe, his mate Sanda, and his life to a vicious band of cannibals led by his most powerful enemy. He awakens in a world beyond his comprehension only to find his mate in the arms of her killer. Misery and strength meld into one goal—to win back his heart and kill his enemy.
With a nudge from her gentle guardian, Sandra Harn travels to Freewill, WY, looking for bargains at the annual rummage sale and, hopefully, answers to her mysterious past. Once there, visions of a time before the town existed make her question her sanity. When an exotic stranger with flowing raven hair and a body she can’t resist tries to kill her companion, logic tells her to run, but her heart and body have other ideas.
Excerpt:
Sanda’s gaze dropped to Kantu’s chest. He glanced at his shirt hanging on a fence post and hoped his skin would not offend her in this world where everyone covered their bodies. “How did you get those scars.”
Her hand started to reach out to him; she jerked it back and folded her arms under her bosom. Her nipples dotted the pink of her shirt. Sanda raised her arms to conceal the delicate rises of flesh he had sucked and licked once upon a time gone by.
A cloud of sadness dampened his eyes. He breathed deep to try and clear his mind of the memory of her breasts, their taste and feel in his mouth, the wetness between her thighs when he entered her, the tightness of his sac before his seed flowed. He grimaced and turned his back to her.
“Did I say something wrong?” Her voice trembled. “I’m sorry if I did.”
“No,” he said in a constricted breath. “It is not you. The scars are the mark of a warrior. My father dragged a claw across my body three times - one for each man I killed my first time in battle.”
“Are you serious? You killed three men? Were you in the army or something?”
He clamped his lips together. His eyes burned, and a tear streaked down his face. This Sanda did not know him at all.
“No.” Her voice softened to a tuft of air. “You weren’t. I know that. I just don’t know how I know that.” A barely audible sigh sounded behind him. “I sometimes see the forest at the MGR before it existed, when it was an open plain. One night the whole town melted into nothing, and I was alone with grass all around me. I could feel the dew on each blade.”
Her fingers touched his shoulder, her natural, wild scent floated into his nostrils. He rested his cheek on the back of Sanda’s hand. Sparks of desire flickered through him, a longing to be held by his mate, his heart, quivered in his chest and arms.
“I know you, don’t I?” A tremor vibrated from her fingers into his shoulder.
He lifted her hand to his cheek and turned to face her. Her eyes shone like summer rain as her gaze drifted back and forth as if searching for something she believed might be found in his eyes, but couldn’t quite see.
“Yes,” he whispered.


Video Book Trailer:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUFiO00hr2A
About the Author:KevaD is David "DA" Kentner, prolific author of romance, suspense, horror, fantasy, and winner of American Mensa, Ltd’s Calliope magazine 18th annual fiction competition. His weekly column "The Readers' Writers" in which he interviews famous and soon-to-be-famous authors appears in newspapers across the country.
When not writing, shoveling snow, or mowing their 5 acres outside Freeport, IL, he's trying to explain to his wife the TV has more than SOAP and GAME channels, and pizza really is a necessary and required food group.
Email: dakentner@yahoo.comWebsite: http://www.kevad.net/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/profile.php?id=100000734965695
KevaD is hosting a fabulous giveaway - go here for the details:


http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f92c8638/
Link to schedule:http://cblspromotions.blogspot.com/2012/07/scheduled-vbt-kantus-heart-by-kevad.html
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