Rachel Leigh's Blog, page 24

Welcome Lyrical Press author, Daisy Banks!

Welcome to my site, Daisy! Daisy is a writer totally in love with what she does and also a fellow Brit so I am really happy to be able to offer her a couple of days open chat with my readers. Shall we start the interview??

1) Who is your favorite author and why?

I have to say Anne Rice. There are many other authors I love and enjoy in the fantasy, mythological, romantic, erotic and mystery genres but Anne Rice is great, a mistress of the craft. Her explorations of sexuality are very interesting and all her stories weave a magic spell for the reader. I'm looking forward to reading her latest book. I'll hopefully be able to get it soon.

2) When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Hmm. An interesting question, Rachel

I've told stories since before I could write. My family has an old reel to reel tape machine, a museum piece really, and has tapes of my first stories. I was about four when they were recorded. Later I told stories to my friends and class mates and also wrote them in school, later still I told stories to the children I taught after I qualified as a teacher. When my own children were born I made up stories for them too. And then for some years the stories were shackled by the usual day to day life I lived.

Things changed after a rather harrowing experience working in a new building which made people ill, myself included. Trying to deal with the symptoms of an unpleasant illness which seemed to have no understandable cause, along with all the sorrow and sadness of being forced to leave a job I enjoyed meant this was a very difficult time in my life, but I also had the luxury of time, lots of it and I began to learn to write. My learning journey continues.

3) Describe your writing space?

The physical space is small, it's the mind space which is important and in my mind there are no boundaries. My only real wish is for a more comfortable seat, LOL. I travel between worlds, between earthly eras and flip from one character's mind to another to try to tell their story.

Presently I write on an aging laptop, it's so well used the letters have worn off some of the keys, I'm sure other people who write will recognize this problem. I prepare scenes in my mind as I do the daily activities. I often get flashes of scenes come to mind when I am driving, now that can be really distracting. Worse still is if the characters make me laugh. I do know I have worried other people in the store as I stand laughing by the onion counter and there seems to be no reason for it.

4) What are you reading now?

I read before I sleep most nights and right now I'm rereading an old favorite. I had a copy of this long ago, but it was lost in one of my home moves and now I have rediscovered it. The Sunne in Splendour. By Sharron Pennman. I love the story; it's rather like being reunited with an old friend. The next book I want to get is the Ghost Inside, by Jj Keller.

5) How many books have your written? Which is your favorite?

Writing is a learning experience and one which is full of joy, fun and sometimes needs sheer determination. It can also be difficult, painful and sad. In one sense I think it's quite fun readers can actually track my development from the beginning when I simply had fun with words through to my latest where I had some fun but also worked hard to give readers the best possible story I could.

I enjoy the stories where I can let my imagination fly. My favorite is the one which will come out with Lyrical in July this year, Timeless. The story grew and developed and changed as I developed as a writer, and with the support of a great editor I discovered I had a really good story. I love the lead characters and found them explosive together. They have a very special kind of passion. I am hoping readers will enjoy them too.

6) What comes first, plot or characters?

Images in my mind often start a story. I see a scene, from there I find the characters and from there the interactions between them. Why is the guy in chains? Why is he so close to the fire? Why is the woman sweating with him as she questions him? The answers build the story.

I've heard if you don't plot your characters out they are boring but I'm not sure I believe that. All writers work in their own way, each finds the route which leads them to tell the story they want to, I don' think there is a set method which will work for everyone.

7) Do you ever suffer from writer's block?

I think everyone gets a little of that from time to time. If I am forced to deal with everyday things I find hard, things like illness, financial problems, worry over loved ones, these are the things which tend to rob me of stories and leave me rather wrung out. But that's pretty much the same for most people I imagine.

My main love at this time in my life, is writing, it breathes life in to me, but sometimes other things come along and reduce my energy as a person and I have to give my concentration to those things. I've been rather unwell in the last year and I'm at home full time, rather difficult in one sense but liberating in another.

There have been times when I get to a point in a story and it takes me a while to work out where the next step will be, but usually the characters race me through. I think if that doesn't happen I know I've got something wrong for them, they aren't happy or enjoying wallowing in their sorrow, as sometimes they should. So then I go back and rip, slash and rewrite until they are happy. I like happy endings mostly, people have a tough enough time in many ways as they live their lives, and I think if they've been kind enough to devote some time to reading one of my stories I should give them a bit of a cheerful boost if I can, or if not at least whisk them away to another world where the day to day grim can't touch them.

8) What do you like to do when you're not writing?

To have the time to write as much as I like, all day every day, is wonderful. I've been working this way for a little while and so far the charm hasn't faded. I've two full novels almost ready for submission and two short stories too and have been able to begin improving my 'on-line' presence.

I also like some practical research and so involve myself in that on some days. This usually involves visits to museums, historical sites, places of magical repute, or all three if I'm really lucky.

One of the things I still try to enjoy is gardening but I must admit to being a sunshine kind of gardener at present, and very limited in what I can physically do. I try to find plants which will thrive with low maintenance. I love traveling but at present it's unlikely I'll be traveling far for the next year or so. I like Brighton. I love Brighton Pavilion. If you ever get the opportunity to visit I'd really recommend it.

The city of York is my favorite city in England. I adore it, I have been back several times and always it welcomes me like a dear friend. Partly my delight in it is due to its amorphous architecture where Roman, Medieval, Tudor, and Renaissance architecture play together and tease each other to show the finest they can.

I love the river there as it smoothes, green and mysterious as the orient, though the center of the city of York. Here lay the gateway to England for the Norsemen and seeing the artifacts discovered in the wonderful trading centre they made of the city are really enjoyable.

These are places I might get to see again this year if I am lucky. If I am very lucky I will be able to travel back to the northern isles or perhaps New York in the USA next year. Even luckier still I will return to New Orleans, which I loved with a passion. Or be able to make a journey to meet the dear friends I've made in the USA since I began to learn to write.

9) Tell us about your latest book?

My latest book is called is called Fiona's Wish, it came out as part of the Irish Collection with Lyrical Press in March this year. The book has a lovely cover art, I used it as my screen saver for a while when I first got it. I think it's scrumptious.

The story is my take on a very old legend, that of the Selkie, the sea folk who live part of their lives as seals and can, if they so wish, transform to human form for a set period of time. Selkie tales are all about appeasing sorrow, that's a Selkie's purpose and Ronan, my Selkie hero, does his very best to make, Fiona, the sad heroine of the story happy.

10) What's next for you?

My next story, Timeless, to be published with Lyrical Press will be out in July this year. This is my second full length title to be published and I am very excited about the story, the first part of a trilogy.

I really like the heroine Sian, she's a producer for music DVD's and quite an interesting lady. Magnus, the hero of this story makes me sigh; he's rather like an Edwardian gentleman, who's decided to spend his life alone, due to his Were wolf affliction.

Sian changes all his preconceptions about himself and the world he lives in. The psychic connection they share is very strong and very passionate, a thing neither of them can fully control.

You see I think at heart I am a story teller, someone who loves to offer tales of romance, bravery, chivalry and daring, stories of magic, myth and mystery, and the interactions between lovers.

I don't know if I have any of the blood of the Pagan word spinners of old, I can only offer the best I am able to at the time, stories I hope will make readers smile, laugh, weep or sigh. If that makes me a writer, then I am one, if it doesn't, I remain a novice enjoying a learning experience I hope won't to end.

Thanks for the chance to talk with you Rachel, best wishes to you and all the readers from Daisy Banks.

Bio:

Daisy Banks was born and raised in the Black Country, the one-time heart of engineering and manufacturing power driving the industrial revolution . She is proud to share the heritage of such a diverse group of people, who wore clogs which sparked on the blue cobbled streets, bent the metal to their will, and found their own answers to the challenges life throws at us all.

Daisy is married, with two sons, and enjoys travel. Her two favorite cities are York in England and New Orleans in the USA.

Daisy began writing to explore both the fantasy and historical genres. She has written short stories, novellas and two full length novels. She is passionate about history, which she taught for some years.

Author of: Fiona's Wish A Matter of Some Scandal available from Lyrical Press

Forth coming Novel: Timeless available from Lyrical Press in July 2012

Author of: Witch's Mark available from New Concepts Publishing

Website http://daisybanksnovels.yolasite.com

Fiona's Wish

by

Daisy Banks

Only the ultimate sacrifice will save her timeless love.

Left shattered by her lover, Fiona Murray believes not one good man lives on this planet. She leaves civilization to work on a lonely isle off Ireland's coast.

When lonely Selkie Ronan hears Fiona's passionate call, he can't help but answer her. She is all he desires, and for her, he will leave all he's ever known--the deep blue sea. But Fate and the sea are fickle mistresses, and want him back. Will he find the strength to surrender all he is to be with Fiona?

And can Fiona, knowing her destiny without him, let him live the life he deserves?

Buy the book here.

Due out July 2012 with Lyrical Press

"Timeless"

by Daisy Banks

Their love will be eternal, the legend says...if they survive.

Lonely and forced into a life of secrecy, four hundred-year-old Magnus finds Sian--the sexy music film producer who's working in his house--tough to ignore.
As she resists his alter ego when he invades her dreams to seduce her, her innate powers astound him and his need only grows. In dreams or reality, he's determined to make her his. She is meant for him alone.
Independent, hard-working Sian has hopes and plans for the future that include the stately house at Darnwell. Not its aloof owner. She's there to acquire the home for a video shoot, nothing more. By day, each layer she explores in Magnus's grand old home with him leads her deeper into love. But by night, he seduces her in her dreams, gives her ecstasy like she's never known. Then she learns his secret: Come the full moon, she is the only one who can control his wolf curse. First though, she has to survive it.

WARNING: Highly sensual with intense sexual encounters.

Thanks for being here, Daisy. Such a wonderful interview and also so nice to host a fellow UK writer! Daisy is waiting for your questions and comments... :)

Welcome multi-published erotic romance author, Kellie Kamryn!

Great to have you here today, Kellie! The more I look at your cover for Pleasure Island, the more I wonder what the cover artist for my next release will come up with. My next novella is set in Zante, Greece so I'm thinking it just might be along the same lines...

Anyway, enough talking about my clear impatience for my next cover, lol! Let's get on with the interview. Welcome!

1) Who is your favourite author and why?

What a horrible question to ask! LOL, I have so many favorites, but I'll say that it's Eloisa James, not only because she writes so exquisitely but because when I felt like giving up as a writer, she answered an email and encouraged me not to, and told me about the Romance Writers of America.

2) When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I self-published my first collection of poetry. I was hooked! I wanted to do keep producing books over and over and over…

3) Describe your writing space?

An old desk, PC along the one wall of the living room across from the kids PC so I can keep an eye on the little buggers, er, I mean darlings!

4) What are you reading now?

A non-romance – The Gift of an Ordinary Day, and about to dive into fellow SCP'er Jamallah Bergman's If Only You Knew.

5) How many books have your written? Which is your favourite?

Another terrible question! That's like asking me which of my kids is my favorite. Of course I don't have one. *blinks innocently* They're all my favorites for different reasons, but my TWRP title Pleasure Island is the first book I wrote and had accepted after my separation so I'll always love that. It made me believe in romance again. Monkeys, Sex and Other Birthday Surprises is hilarious if I do say so myself. Very erotic and funny. Since I love sex and laughing, it's a good combo!

6) What comes first, plot or characters?

Characters. They always come to me and tell me their story. Then I plot.

7) Do you ever suffer from writer's block?

I wouldn't say writers block. More like life gets in the way. It always passes so I just try to go with the flow. I should mention that Patience is NOT one of my virtues…

8) What do you like to do when you're not writing?

Reading, watching Hot in Cleveland or The Big Bang Theory with my oldest, visiting with friends. I love to laugh, so anything that brings a smile to my place is worth my time!

9) Tell us about your latest book?

The Perfect Score is book 2 in the Love and Balance series, available from Secret Cravings Publishing.

Teaser:

The new head coach has barely gotten her beams in alignment when she's threatened with a lawsuit by a father for refusing to train his brat of a daughter.

Shelley Longstaff finally has her chance to be in charge only to rue the day when she is asked to train the dreaded Anna Fortier, a gymnast who has no sense of sportsmanship and makes everyone in her vicinity miserable. When Shelley refuses, she's threatened with a lawsuit by her father. To make things worse, Shelley has an inexplicable attraction to the arrogant rich lawyer!

Since his wife's death five years ago, Jacques (Jack) Fortier does whatever it takes to protect what is his. Shelley's club is his last resort to keep his daughter in the sport, but threatening to sue her isn't exactly his smartest move. When she grudgingly agrees to give Anna a chance, he finds himself attracted to the spritely gymnastics coach – the first woman he's had any feelings for since his wife passed away.

As Shelley and Jack leap over the line in their parent-coach relationship, Shelley worries over falling in love with a man who admittedly still loves his late wife. But when a crisis of teenage proportions threatens their relationship, will they risk everything for the chance to achieve The Perfect Score?

And if readers like this one, be sure to check out book 1, Rebound:

An award-winning choreographer must face the only man she's ever loved then lost when they are teamed up to work together at a gymnastics camp for Olympic hopefuls.

Claire LeMay is at the top of her game – she's head of a prominent gymnastics facility with her gymnasts winning awards for her outstanding choreography. Now her biggest challenge is to coach alongside the man she's avoided for three years after he demanded she live in his shadow instead of forging her own path.

After sinking every penny of his inheritance into his state-of-the-art gymnastics facility, Justin Black has achieved his dream. But even with hundreds of members and well-trained coaches, when Claire's presence invades his space, he reluctantly admits she's the one thing missing in his life. Oblivious as to why she walked out on him three years ago, he attempts to call a truce. As their old passion tumbles out faster than a gymnast sprinting down the vault runway, they realize they are in the same impossible position as they were three years ago. Are they destined to repeat the same old routine or will they be able to choreograph a new one?

10) What's next for you?

I'm editing book 3 in the series for submission, I'm waiting to hear about a sweet romance (short) I submitted to one publisher, and I've got an erotic romantic suspense I want to pitch at a conference later this year. But I've got to get more writing done on that!

thanks for having me as a guest today! Readers can find me at www.kelliekamryn.com, www.kelliekamryn.blogspot.com, www.facebook.com/KellieKamryn, or on twitter @KellieKamryn

Buy Links: Amazon

BarnesandNoble

SecretCravingsPublishing

The Wild Rose Press

(Also available on ARe and Bookstrand)

Thanks for being here, Kellie! I completely understand your answer to my question regarding writer's block...same impatience/disturbance thing here too!

Comments? Questions?

Waiting, waiting, waiting...

My writing has been SO quiet lately and I can't do anything but apologize and say my fingers will be at the keyboard again very soon. I write mainstream romance under a different name and it's bound to happen sometimes, but that side of my writing has gone absolutely crazy which has meant my poor alter ego has been neglected :(
I really hope things will change in the next couple of weeks and I can get really stuck into my work in progress. In the meantime, I am waiting for my second round of edits for novella number three and of course, my favorite part of the entire process, the COVER ART!! I can't wait. I am checking my inbox like a damn fool, lol! I will share as soon as it arrives.
So that's me, that's what's going on.
Hope to have some good news soon, here's the blurb for novella number three, "Zante Heat" - enjoy!

Chef Michelle Hutton flies from the UK to Greece in search of a new beginning. Her first encounter is with a sexy, pro-bono lawyer Sam Clarke.

In need of a job and a future – Sam's sister has a restaurant in desperate need of a new chef. Michelle soon wonders if Sam is also the key to her future. He seems too good to be true and her trust has been broken over and over. He's sexy, capable and totally in control. Too damn hard to resist…

Sam Clarke is on a mission to help women in jeopardy. When he meets Michelle with hair like a sheet of gold and eyes bluer than the ocean, the electricity between them is hotter than a live wire. He soon learns she's more than capable of demanding and getting what she wants. She doesn't need him; he should walk away…yet time and again he goes back for more.

Welcome Lyrical Press author, Annie Nicholas!

Hi Annie, it's a pleasure to have you here today and to be a part of your ongoing tour. Really looking forward to the interview and getting to know you better! Also, I just had to say how much I love your book cover - fabulous!

Okay, let's get started... :)

1) When and why did you decide you wanted to be a published author?

That's a really good question. I don't think it was conscious decision until I finished my first book and had a stranger critique it. The feedback was so phenomenal that it gave me enough courage to submit it to a contest. I came in second place and the offers came in. The rest is history. LOL

2) What is the best and worse thing you have learned from an editor/agent?

The best thing I learned was from my first editor, and that was to believe in myself. The worst was from a scatter of agents who state I write very well but I don't create stories for mainstream publishing. It's not good enough to write well. You have to be capable of creating stories that will sell to the masses.

3) Favourite author/s?

I have Jim Butcher and Nalini Singh on auto buy. I've recently picked up some books by Sharon Shinn. Old authors who I like to reread are Larry Niven and Robert Jordan.

4) What is your typical day?

On my days off work, I send the kids to school then write/edit/critique from 8 AM until 2:30 PM. I put my mom/wife hat back on until bedtime at 8:30 then write/edit until 10 PM. I do work as a nurse twice a week on average, sometimes more if they need help.

5) Share your blurb or short excerpt from your latest release with us

Some things are best to forget. But what if the past won't be forgotten?

Born in China of a pure shifter bloodline, Katrina was raised with only one purpose--to breed. Abused by her alpha, she runs away to America as soon as she can. With a new pack and her true mate, she thinks the nightmare is behind her, but when she is abducted on the streets of Chinatown, Katrina must face her past and fight for her freedom.

It took Tyler a year to earn Katrina's love, another to build her confidence and pride, and only a moment to lose her. Broken-hearted, Tyler won't give up his search for Katrina.

But he never trained as a warrior like the other shifters. What chance does a real estate agent have in the fight for his mate?

WARNING: Explicit shifter sex, heartbroken torment, and an unstoppable shifter in love.

6) Who would you cast to play your hero & heroine in a movie?

Mat Damon with red, curly hair and Lucy Liu.

7) Did you plan this book? Or write it as it came?

I'm a huge plotter. All my books are planned with a little touch of pantsing. If an idea strikes me while writing, I'm will to follow it and leave my plot behind. Then I just plot again.

8) What surprised you the most when you became a published?

How much work goes into creating a quality book. There are many rounds of edits by different individuals, each with their own opinions on how to make the story better. Quite overwhelming for the first time.

9) Do you have a dedicated writing space? What does it look like?

I'm on the go often. Be it for my kids' events or working my day job, so my head is my writing space. I carry a notepad for when I don't have a computer handy and write whenever I have a moment. This is probably why I need to be a plotter so I can continue where I left off at a drop of a few minutes of freedom.

10) What's next for you?

I am launching a new series this fall through Carina Press called Confessions of a Succubus and there will also be another Vanguards release in August titled The Sigma. J

Finish with details of where readers can find you – website, Facebook, Twitter etc

@annienicholas

www.annienicholas.com

www.annienicholas.blogspot.com

Excerpt

The Asian stranger grabbed Katrina's arm and yanked her into his embrace.

"Hey!" It took every ounce of Tyler's control to keep his beast from busting out on the tourist filled streets of China Town. He shoved the stranger from behind, knocking Katrina from his arms.

She stumbled and landed hard on the ground. Tears stained her cheeks. The cold wind blew strands of long, black hair across her face.

"Get your hands off her." He bent to help her, but the stranger blocked him. Straightening, Tyler glared at Katrina's assailant and met a cold, dark stare.

His beast rose closer to the surface and clouded his thoughts. She belonged to him and this male thought to block his way. The only solution was to tear this asshole limb from limb. "Get out of my way." He spoke each word separately and clearly to get his point across.

"This is none of your concern." The stranger spoke with a thick accent like Katrina's.

"You're on Vasi territory. Anything that happens here is my concern. And she belongs to me." Tyler pointed to Katrina, then back to himself.

"Chinatown is not Vasi territory. Never has been and never will be. And this female mated me before she ran away." Crossing his arms, the stranger planted himself in front of Tyler. "She still belongs to me and has never been yours to take."

Tyler's jaw hung as if on broken hinges. He shot her a questioning look, but she stared at the ground, not meeting his gaze. Katrina hated to speak about her past. Now, he knew why.

She wiped her face, huddled on the ground, and didn't deny a thing.

Every bit of joy in his life lay with Katrina, but truth's claws dug into his heart. He didn't know which hurt more, the lies or the way she hunched on the ground, submitting to this stranger like an omega all over again.

Annie Nicholas hibernates in the rural, green mountains of Vermont, where she dreams of different worlds, heroes, and heroines. When spring arrives the stories pour from her, in hopes to share them with the masses one day.

Mother, daughter, wife are some of the hats she happily wears while trudging after her cubs through the hills and dales. The four seasons an inspiration and muse.

Website: www.annienicholas.com

Blog: www.annienicholas.blogspot.com

Group Blog: www.paranormalromantics.blogspot.com

Twitter: @annienicholas

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Annie-Nicholas/162716537103705

Thanks for visiting, Annie!

Annie will be giving away an autographed copy of each of the first three Vanguards books and a $10 gift card to either Amazon or Barnes and Noble) as well as a copy of one of the books in her backlist to one commenter at EVERY stop. 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/2011/12/virtual-book-tour-omegas-in-love.html.

Welcome multi-published author, Liz Crowe!

Good morning! Today I am interviewing multi-published author, Liz Crowe who is here to talk about your career and her fabulous Realtors Series. Let's get started!

1) When and why did you decide you wanted to be a published author?

About 3 years ago.

I don't know why really. I'm not one of those folks who carried around notebooks full of novel notes and stuff growing up. I've always written either as a journalist, beer blogger, in my capacity in public relations or marketing. I am a fairly late convert to the whole "erotic romance" genre as a reader as well. I only dipped into it about 4 years ago with the Mona Lisa series, then found some non-paranormal writers I really loved, which was likely the impetus for me to try it myself.

2) What is the best and worse thing you have learned from an editor/agent?

BEST: How to NOT write in passive voice.

WORST: um….huh….let's see….nothing really. Every editor I've had (5 different publishers now) have taught me something new and useful for my growth as a writer.

I don't have an agent but am pondering it as a 2013 goal for a few more mainstream projects I'm pondering.

3) Favourite author/s?

I'm a little heavy on the mainstream ones here but:

Margaret Atwood

Jonathan Franzen (he'll get over his snobbish BS about e-publishing soon. JK Rowling did…)

Liane Moriarty

Stephen King

Jeffrey Eugenides

(erotic)

JR Ward (really the only paranormal author I continue to follow)

Shayla Black

Lee Brazil

(YA)

Patrick Ness

Suzanne Collins

John Greene

I like a little of everything really. Although (hides face) I don't really read much "mainstream romance." I prefer it hot, steamy and real, that is unless there are Black Dagger Bros involved.

4) What is your typical day?

I own a craft microbrewery and handle all the marketing for it, plus manage a bar staff. I spend 60% of my day planning promotions, schmoozing locals, writing press releases or "A2 Beer Wench" blog posts, dealing with various personnel and facility crises, butting heads with my brewing staff. Then 30% is devoted to remembering I have a spouse and 2 kids still at home, both of whom are busy athletes/scholars and need my varying degrees of attention and time. Then, I write.

5) Share your blurb or short excerpt from your latest release with us

THE REALTORS is a series of 3 books. Floor Time released in January, Sweat Equity Feb. 25 and the final "chapter" Closing Costs will release at the end of March.

Floor Time (The Realtors – Book 1):

Jack Gordon is Ann Arbor's most delectable bachelor. At age thirty-five, he's made millions as a top-selling Ann Arbor real estate broker and has the right connections to close a deal by any means necessary. With his rugged good looks and compelling personality, he has a virtual black book most men would kill for and he uses it often, never settling for one woman for very long.

While his D/s past remains buried, exactly where he wants it, an undercurrent of boredom and dissatisfaction runs through his life now. Disastrous experience years earlier made him swear off the whole scene, but the more Jack suppresses his natural Dom, the more his frustration grows.

Sara Thornton, just a rookie in the field, has fast-tracked herself to the top of the Ann Arbor real estate market. Her life evolves into a disciplined and focused routine, exactly what she wants. However, as her career takes off, the fulfillment she seeks remains inexplicably out of reach. The one thing she knows for sure, she will not join the Jack Gordon groupies in her company, no matter how tempting that might seem.

A chance encounter, then a difficult transaction, throw Jack and Sara together and the sparks fly high and hot and often. Forced to confront the compulsions that gain momentum with each sizzling encounter, their relationship seems to spiral out of control until Jack finally admits what he needs, and shows Sara what she's been missing.

Buy links:

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-floortime-675855-144.html

http://www.amazon.com/Floor-Time-The-Realtors-ebook/dp/B0071MH634/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1329791472&sr=8-2

Sweat Equity (The Realtors – Book 2):

Jack Gordon thought he'd finally made it. He had a wildly successful career, money in the bank and even returned to his life as Dom, putting an end to a string of unfulfilling sexual encounters. Now that he's made the ultimate commitment to Sara Thornton, he believes all is right in their world. However, a series of misunderstandings and a dose of self-fulfilling prophesy bring his perfectly crafted house of cards tumbling down around him, forcing him to confront lingering misgivings about marriage and trust. Could those be the only two things he can never achieve?

Sara struggles with her intense need for Jack and her desire for less volatility in her busy life, two goals which appear to be mutually exclusive. Although willing to put in the time and emotional effort to make their relationship work, she finds it futile and frustrating, littered with clashes thanks to near-identical personalities and temperaments. Given Sara's history, easing back into the comfortable status quo becomes easier than fighting a war with the one person who should be her safe haven. But will the easier choice satisfy her the way only Jack can? Is her "war" one that comes from without or within?

Buffeted by circumstance, temptation and distraction, Jack and Sara's tenuous relationship crumbles, sparking a continuous quest for the ever elusive: trust, love and acceptance. By the time they rebuild a foundation for renewal, fate has other plans. This leaves them both reeling, once again questioning their destiny.

Buy links:

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-sweatequity-728028-149.html

http://www.amazon.com/Sweat-Equity-The-Realtors-ebook/dp/B007D8HDD4/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1330287117&sr=8-13

Closing Costs (The Realtors – Book 3):

Love conquers all? Not likely, according to Sara Thornton. She's spent eight years coming to terms with the new parameters of her life while resigning herself to the idea that "happily ever afters" are best left to fairytales. Sales manager for her successful real estate office and juggling an added element of responsibility she never thought she'd face, Sara continues to struggle with the men in her life. Love, for her, has only meant hurt, broken trust and anger; all of which she's completely banished from her life, so she claims.

Jack Gordon has come a long way since his earlier days of obsession with Sara. As the general manager of Stewart Realty, his own level of responsibility for the well-being of others has ramped up. He's even honed his caretaking skills, now that he has someone who loves him unconditionally.

Continuing to invest effort and rebuild their relationship, he and Sara grow close as friends. Despite this, his ultimate question remains unanswered; the one he keeps asking, no matter how many times she says no. Sara isn't prepared for the keen focus of his need--to have her back, once and for all. Her stubborn resistance nearly rips both lives apart

The epic conclusion to The Realtors series, Closing Costs brings Jack and Sara truly full circle. Proving that the heat of lust and obsession; the need for control and to be mastered in many areas of life can lead to love —surprising you when you least expect it – if you will only allow it.

RELEASING MARCH 25, 2012.

6) Who would you cast to play your hero & heroine in a movie?

Oh funny you should ask. Basically The Realtors will not be a movie but a premium cable mini series. The cast is plucked from the hottest of the hot and the casting process was cut throat thanks to the buzz around the series (some photos attached):

Jack Gordon—Jon Hamm

Sara Jane Thornton—January Jones

Craig Robinson—Alex Petttyfer

Blake Thornton—Cam Gigandet

Rob Frietag—Alex Skarsgaard

Suzanne Baxter—Amy Adams

Evan Adams—Josh Duhamel

7) Did you plan this book? Or write it as it came?

I did like I do all my books: from the seat of my pants in marathon, family-depriving bursts of creativity.

8) What surprised you the most when you became a published?

How many other people are published. Not to disparage too much but it makes it really difficult to break through really bad writing clutter. But it's the nature of the e-pub world now. Publishers are popping up every which where needing something to publish. It gives newbie authors a shot. My only argument is in favor of all acquisitions editors keeping standards high.

9) Do you have a dedicated writing space? What does it look like?

No, not really. I can look at every one of my already published and in "editing mode" projects and tell you where each book was concocted and written. Some on my back patio in the summer on my laptop, some in my beer bar in the laptop, a few on my big computer in my home office, many just on the laptop in the car/on a plane/in front of the fire in the family room. I'm flexible.

10) What's next for you?
I have a new book coming out with Ellora's Cave this spring called Lust On Tap. It's a VERY romantic (and tragic) ménage novel that I am really, really, really excited about. At the moment I'm writing something new for EC as well, which, in my typical fashion, I love more than anything I've ever written. I feel this way about everything I do!

My very popular Turkish Delights series with Decadent Publishing gets a long awaited prequel: The Diplomat's Daughter in late April or thereabouts and a follow up novel that will tie up a bunch of dangling plot loose ends from the trilogy. It comes with a lot of intrigue, psychology of terrorist kidnappers and healthy dose of reunion between characters thought lost, now re-found.

And I have plans for a couple of projects including a few offshoot novels for secondary characters in The Realtors series and a WAY FUN new series based on an expansion major league soccer team in Detroit.

Finish with details of where readers can find you – website, Facebook, Twitter etc

www.lizcrowe.com

www.brewingpasssion.com

www.facebook.com/lizcroweauthor

twitter: beerwencha2

Google +: Liz Crowe

EXCERPT (from Book One: FLOOR TIME)

X-Excerpt:

She turned away from him, hoping to marshal her strength and tell him to leave. As she made her way down the office hallway she knew by heart even in the darkness, she could smell him on her and knew at that moment, without a doubt, she would fuck him, right then in that office.

They had been building towards it for too long. Her brain knew to keep quiet; it would not be heard over her body's clamor. Her baser need for him took over, and when he put a hand on her shirt and firmly tugged her back to him, she let him, shutting her eyes and praying she wasn't making a huge mistake.

She started to turn but he grabbed her from behind.

"Don't turn around," he whispered. "Let me show you what happens next. Just leave it all to me."

She relented and leaned back into his body. His lips claimed her neck. His hands rubbed both nipples at once. She bent her knees and moaned, raised her arms and put them behind her, around his head. He managed at some point to lose his expensive cufflinks and roll up his sleeves exposing tanned, strong forearms. He released each breast from their cup; caressed, rubbed, and pinched the aching, hard nubs of sensitive flesh. His lips and teeth remained on her damp skin.

She began to move, rubbing against the heat of his erection pressed against her back. He groaned, and increased attention to her nipples, continued to use his lips to caress the back of her neck. A small fire burned wherever he touched her. She imagined she could come against the seam of her jeans, the pressure of his straining zipper against her, both of his hands on her nipples and his mouth in her ear and on her neck.

"Mmm… I have been dreaming of doing this to you for weeks." The words caused every nerve in her body to tingle. She closed her eyes.

He turned her around to face him, his hands on her upper arms. Before she could whimper about her poor lonely nipples he crushed his mouth on hers, pushing her up against the wall. Her left leg lifted and encircled his waist as her engorged clit begged for contact.

Oh my God, I am dry humping this grown man in my office.

He reached down and slowly unzipped her shorts, never removing his lips from the skin of her neck. He was muttering, something about "You smell exactly like I thought you would," but she couldn't be certain as her brain started fogging up like the inside of a car window, obscuring all rational thought.

Jack reached a hand down, brushed the outside of her panties. She moaned and leaned her head back against the wall. Sweat dripped slowly between her breasts as her breath caught in her throat. She sensed him grin against her skin as he leaned down to find the moisture and lap at it, his fingers lightly teasing her clit.

"Somebody is really happy to see me." His voice had an edge to it she loved.

Sara realized that she was moving her hips, thrusting toward him as though drawn by a magnet. She started to reach down, needing to feel his flesh, but he grabbed her hands, lifted them up over her head, pinned her wrists against the wall.

"No, baby, let me. Just lean back and relax. I'm in charge."

Everything in her struggled against him, tried to resist, but the firm grasp he kept on her wrists was one of the most erotic sensations she'd ever experienced. She bit her lip as Jack slid her shorts down. He reached inside her panties, forming two of his fingers and thumb into a delicious double stimulator. Slowly, he moved against her swollen nub and slipped into her pussy as his lips traveled from her mouth, to her neck.

He manipulated her and maintained his control, seemingly without much effort, still holding her wrists captive over her head. She started lifting off, becoming as light as air, reaching the edge of extreme pleasure, while part of her tried to maintain her control. The man she'd been dreaming about for months was there, touching her, holding her captive against her office wall, and his lips, dear God... Eyes closed, head and arms up against the wall, she finally gave in to the pure, shuddering pleasure of it. Ignoring how much further she'd be willing to go with him; her usual reservations abandoned in his arms.

LINKS:

www.brewingpassion.com

www.facebook.com/lizcroweauthor

www.twitter.com/beerwencha2

Bio:

hree kids, two standard poodles, a real estate license, ownership and marketing responsibility for a craft microbrewery and a few publishing successes later, Liz continues to write, blog, sell, market, event plan and attempt to stay up with laundry and housekeeping (the latter with limited success).

Five publishing houses are home now, Ellora's Cave, Decadent Publishing, Tri-Destiny Publishing, Breathless Press and Rebel Ink Press. There are several Works in Progress headed out soon. And, of course, more laundry to fold.

Prize information: One random commenter at each stop will win either one of five $10 Amazon gift cards, one of three winner's choice of a book from Liz's backlist, or one of two $20 Zinterman's gift certificates. Zingerman's is an Ann Arbor institution, world famous for its gourmet deli items, breads and desserts all of which can be ordered and shipped ANYWHERE in the world. www.Zingermans.com.

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/2012/01/virtual-book-tour-realtors-series-by.html. 


Great to have you here, Liz and to share in your continuing success - good luck with your tour!

Wild Rose Press Author Showcase!!

For my Saturday Promo today, I thought I would showcase three of my favorite Wild Rose Press erotic romance authors:

First up, is Emma Lai and her novella...Riding Rodeo
The last person Amanda Goodson expected to walk into her bakery was Sean Cassidy, the bareback bronc rider who rode her hard one night and left without a good-bye the next day. Since then, she'd sworn off one-night stands and cowboys, but one look at the man she called Rodeo leaves her hankering for another ride.

A nasty injury ended Sean's career and left him with nothing but time to contemplate past sins, especially the most damning one...walking out on Amanda, the one woman he couldn't forget. Eager to right the biggest mistake of his life, he finds Amanda--and learns he has competition. Never one to back down from a challenge, he offers to fulfill her darkest fantasy--taking two cowboys for a ride.

When the dust settles, will Sean's plan to win Amanda's trust backfire or will she risk her heart for one more shot at Riding Rodeo?
Buy:http://www.wilderroses.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=86&products_id=851Next is Jennifer Jakes with her novel...Rafe's Redemption

He rode into town to buy supplies, not a woman.

For hunted recluse Rafe McBride, the raven-haired beauty on the auction block is exactly what he doesn't need. A dependent woman will be another clue his vengeful stepbrother can use to find and kill him. But Rafe's conscience won't let him leave another innocent's virginity to the riff-raff bidding. He buys her, promising to return her to St. Louis untouched. He only prays the impending blizzard holds off before her sultry beauty breaks his willpower.

She wanted freedom, not a lover.

Whisked to the auction block by her devious, gambling cousin, and then sold into the arms of a gorgeous stranger, outspoken artist Maggie Monroe isn't about to go meekly. Especially when the rugged mountain man looks like sin and danger rolled into one. But a blizzard and temptation thrust them together, and Maggie yearns to explore her smoldering passion for Rafe.

But when the snow clears, will the danger and secrets that surround Rafe and Maggie tear them apart?
Buy:
http://www.wilderroses.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=156&products_id=812
And finally, Sayde Grace and...Rawhide Angel
With her father's gambling debts about to ruin the family ranch, Saige Thomely is determined to do whatever or whomever it takes to cover the debts. Unfortunately for her, one man is a sure bet, the one cowboy she's tried to ignore for six months. The same cowboy who makes her body and heart flame to life with each look. Saige is prepared to offer herself in exchange for the money to cover the debts, but what she's not prepared for is losing her damaged heart to another cowboy.
Night after night, for half a year, Chet Haskins has dreamed of having the blonde and sexy as sin Saige Thomely in his bed, writhing under him. At long last his dreams might become reality, only Chet's heart wants more than just a few nights of steamy sex. But will the ghost of past relationships come between them? Or can Chet show the passionate Saige he's truly the one to save her ranch and her heart?

Book 3 in the Series
Buy:
http://www.wilderroses.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=88&products_id=863

Why Erotic Romance??

Why Erotic Romance?

I write both erotic and mainstream (under a different name) romance but inevitably it's the erotic romance that gets the most interest. And this isn't just from the hot-blooded males, believe me. Women love erotic romance, I think, because it provides more heated escapism than mainstream romance ever could.

And for the writer of erotic romance? The escapism is amazing…even orgasmic, you could say! ; )

Whenever I mention my erotic romance in a bar or out with friends, people automatically ask about the sex scenes and the graphic language but that is not why erotic romance writers write it and more often than not it is not why erotic romance readers read it.

I love creating sexy, passionate characters to star in my erotic romances. I love giving those characters sexy, passionate conflicts and ultimately sexy, passionate love scenes where they can act out their fantasizes, unleash their pent-up frustration and ride the wave! The motivations of these characters, their hopes and dreams are ultimately what makes the story fiery hot and incredibly sexy.

For me, the secret to great erotic romance is not so much the sex scenes themselves (but obviously they help!), but more the sexual tension beforehand, and the passion inside the characters. What makes them tick? What's their problem/conflict? What do they ultimately want in their lives? And how is the hero/heroine the one to make them happy?

These are all questions I ask myself when coming up with a new idea for an erotic romance story. Once I have these questions answered, I usually have two passionate individuals who NEED to be together in order to live their best life…happily and erotically.

The heroes and heroines of these stories have a job to do that is even more vital than the heroes and heroines of mainstream romance – they have to have a tangible electricity that is so hot it singes the page. Readers want to be turned on, to be squirming in their seat as they are reading, reaching for their own partners after reading and unleash their frustrations…yummy!

This is what happened to me when I was writing Explicitly English and I hope it does to you when you read it - erotic romance is their to be enjoyed whether that be alone or with someone else… ; )

Blurb & Buy Link:

Laura Markham needs to forget - just for awhile. Be someone else for change - live as her parents will never have the chance to. And for Laura, that means leaving the City for the English countryside and doing just what the hell she feels like…wherever she feels like doing it…

British stockbroker, Stephen Cambridge knows by going home to his country retreat two days early, he's likely to surprise his contracted interior designer. And when he finds out she's the woman who performed the solo masterbation show for him on the inward bound journey, Stephen will do anything to further convince her to miss the outward bound train and stay with him forever...

http://thewildrosepress.com/wilderroses/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=86&products_id=790

I love to hear what makes an erotic romance steaming hot for you…what do you want in an erotic story?

Rachel x

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachel-Leigh/266044849655

Twitter @rachelwriter

Saturday Promo - Lily Harlem & Natalie Dae...

That Filthy Book by Lily Harlem and Natalie Dae

Buy Link

http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?strParents=&CAT_ID=&P_ID=1604

Blurb

Out of sight, out of mind. Or so I thought, but it turns out an old, dog-eared book with contents so filthy and so depraved that I'd been forced to hide it after reading, has sank deeper into my erotic subconscious than I'd ever imagined. Luckily though, Jacob is up for exploring the new side of me that has risen to the surface after all these years.

In a whirlwind of wanton adventures that push us to the limits of our sexuality, we begin to re-discover what it once was that had us screaming with pleasure and how to accept that nothing will ever be the same again between us.

Reader Advisory: This book contains bondage, BDSM and an element of dubious consent within a consensually acted out rape scenario.

Excerpt From: That Filthy Book (18+)

It seemed Lady Luck had joined us for our journey, giving the green light for all our needs to be met only three days after my confession of what I really wanted him to do with that branch.

Jacob's parents had asked if they could take the girls to a circus on Saturday night. It started at eight, didn't finish until ten, so they'd suggested it was more sensible that they keep them until Sunday morning, possibly Sunday afternoon if the children fancied having a roast dinner with them at the local pub.

I was not about to turn that opportunity down, especially when Jacob had been hot for the idea of outside sex. In fact, he'd been more than up for it, and the excited glint in his eye when I'd held up the carefully stripped bark had sent a tremble to my very core. Something told me I'd hit another very dark and very sinful nerve of his.

But always one to think of others, Jacob had already promised to help a work colleague move house on the Saturday. I didn't mind too much because it left me with an empty afternoon to prepare for our evening of fun. I started with a pamper accompanied by a glass of wine, treating myself to a cucumber face mask, sugar body scrub, shave—including my pussy—manicure and pedicure and finally a generous slathering of body butter.

It left me feeling tingly and smooth, as if my body was honed and prepared. The thought of my silky, clean skin and perfectly neat red nails out in the open, amongst dirt and leaves, with the sootiness of bark mould smudged randomly over my body had me panting with excitement. I could just imagine mud squelching around my toes and the creamy skin of my wrists worn red by ropes. And the image of my arse marked raw by the branch, well, that had me feeling like a sacrificial offering.

For I knew that this evening I would be handing myself over to nature, to Jacob, and to my own darkest desires. The bare bones of my soul were about to be revealed. No holds barred, no chance to hide. They were the very skeleton of me that only Jacob would ever set eyes on.

When the dipping sun sent lilac and crimson fingers darting over the horizon I was ready—more than ready. I'd had a light tea and another glass of wine, resisted the temptation to masturbate—just—and saved myself for my husband.

The front door opened with a whoosh, then shut with a resounding slam. I spun from the kitchen window where I'd been staring at the darkening copse.

The copse that was ready and waiting.

Heavy footsteps banged down the hall. Loud and resolute, the sound reverberated around my head.

This was it. There was no turning back.

I didn't want to. Not for anything.

The door swung open, and there he stood, with his broad shoulders filling the frame and his head bowed slightly. He pulled his brows low and set his jaw. A small muscle flexed and unflexed in his cheek.

"Get down on your knees, bitch."

I gasped at the completely thrilling sound of his bad man's voice and folded my legs until my knees landed on the freshly swept lino. He was so feral, so dominant, not Jacob the protector, the carer. No, tonight I had Jacob the master, the taker, the giver of sinful pleasure.

Between one breath and the next he was in front of me, his groin level with my face and his hands on his hips. The scent of man and hard physical work washed over me, as well as perhaps a hint of a greasy spoon cafe where he'd no doubt been treated to pie and chips for the efforts of his day.

"Take out my cock."

I reached for the buttons on his jeans, surprised to see that my hands trembled. Excitement? Trepidation?

This had not been part of any plan, but I wasn't complaining. In fact, there wasn't a plan. All Jacob had asked was that I trust him. He said that he understood what I wanted and would make it all happen for me. Of course, we had a safe word, but I couldn't imagine I would need it. I trusted Jacob with my life and my pleasure. I always would.

"Hurry up," he said, tangling his fingers in my neatly brushed, softly conditioned hair. "Take it out and suck it."

After I freed his cock, his length sprang into my palm, hot and thick, and the purple veins winding up the shaft bulged with his keen arousal.

In a sharp movement, he jerked forward and the tip slid into my salivating mouth. "Wider, whore," he snarled. "Take me, all of me."

I stretched my jaw and he sank deep, sliding to the back of my throat in one urgent movement. I gagged but he ignored it; pulled back then rode in again, all the time holding my head in a tight, vice-like grip so I had no choice but to take him, tip to base.

I'd sucked on Jacob's cock a million times, but never had he taken control like this. He was always respectful and deathly still, allowing me to determine depth and pace. But this was different—this was sinful, depraved Jacob fucking my mouth without a thought for my well-being.

I adored it.

Needing support as my body was jostled by his thrusting hips, I gripped his thighs. Saliva ran down my face and neck onto my red blouse, my nose repeatedly buried in his wiry pubic hair. He steamed on and on, hissing and cursing above me. Breathing was difficult, my mouth was so chock-full of hard, demanding cock. When I did catch a breath the air was heated and smelt of him, musky and raw.

"Get fucking ready for it," he snarled, thrusting to such a depth his balls slapped against my chin. "I'm going to come down your throat. I'm going to fill you up, now...argh...fuck...now."

He let out a garrotted cry as his cock swelled further, then, in several sweet pulses, copious amounts of fluid gushed over my tongue. I swallowed rapidly, the action tugging the crown of his cock further down my throat.

"Ah, sweet...fucking...Jesus," he hissed, gripping my hair. "That's it, keep sucking, swallow me."

I did as he asked. My body quivered, and I could almost come myself just from the feel and taste of him climaxing so hard and forcefully. Had he lain there all those millions of times I'd sucked him off, restraining himself? Had he wanted to throw me down and fuck my mouth in a hard, abandoned way, but resisted?

I didn't have time to dwell on this because Jacob pulled out, gripped my upper arms and dragged me into a standing position. Gasping, I stared into his flushed face. His mouth was parted as he drew in big lungfuls of air. His eyes sparkled, the pupils wide and dilated, showing me the dark depths of his most basic needs.

"That's just the beginning," he said in a rasping, breathy voice. "To take the edge off what you've had me thinking of for three days." He slanted his mouth down hard over mine, taking possession of my lips and tongue in a furious, ravenous kiss. He pulled away abruptly. "You're such a tease," he muttered, "tempting me, turning me on. Well, now you're going to get it. You're going to get punished for making a man want you so bad it hurts his soul."

Author Bios

Natalie Dae is a multi-published author in three pen names writing several genres. She lives with her husband, children, and three cats in an English village. She writes full time and is also a cover artist and blog designer. In another life she was an editor. Her other pen names are Sarah Masters and Charley Oweson.

Website - http://www.emmyellis.com

Lily Harlem is an award-winning author of contemporary erotic romance and writes for Total-E-Bound, Ellora's Cave and Xcite as well as featuring in numerous UK and US anthologies. She lives in the UK and since giving up a career in nursing adores indulging a decidedly naughty side of her personality by writing ultra-sexy stories

Welcome writer and my online friend, Richard Burns!

Welcome Richard! Richard is a very knowledgeable man who has helped me a lot with my next story which I truly grateful for. I want to pay him back by boosting his followers and sales. What better way to get to know an author that by asking probing questions? Let's get started...

1) What is your writing routine?

Well unfortunately, I don't seem to have one right now. Everything I have published right now, I wrote when I was out of work or deployed overseas, in Afghanistan and I had a more free time on my hands. But back home in the states, with wife, children & grandchildren and a paying job. Routines are as elusive as the loch ness monster! It's really tough just getting to the gym 3 or 4 times a week!

2) Which author/s inspire you to write?

Tom Clancy, in a very left handed sort of way: I liked a lot of his books, BUT! With that said, he gets way too far down into the weeds on the technical aspects of his plots. I don't need to know how to build a nuclear bomb. I just need to know that somebody who does, is! And, will it work or not? So I try to write most of my Thriller & Suspense stories with more action, and highly descriptive, at that. Mostly because I believe that paints a more accurate and vivid picture for the reader.

3) Which is your favorite romance subgenre to read? To write?

I don't think I've ever really considered it, until just now. I suppose that I like to push the envelop with common decency. No, I like to tear the envelop to shreds! I like to write about episodes of exhibitionism, so naturally public sex, really push those taboo subjects.

4) How do you deal with criticism/rejection?

BADLY! Even worse still: The waiting for approval on a story I've just submitted. As far as criticism goes, I really do try to take it to heart. But I frequently consider the source, because I know my wife doesn't like to read the stories I write in the way that I write them. Because, like Clancy, in my loves scenes, I really get down into the weeds! I want my readers to feel like voyeurs! I want them to feel every ounce of anticipation, wanting and longing, every tiny sensation. I suppose the main difference between me & Clancy in that regard is the techno-jargon.

5) What do you expect from an editor?

I expect them to tell me where I've poorly worded a sentence, or I've given somebody too many hands for the scene, I've given D Cup breasts where earlier in the story I gave them C Cups. I want them to tell me where they found my story confusing, where I should clean up my messes. To be completely honest, I've never had trouble with an editor and typically, I have to deal with two; a Line Editor and a Content Editor. At the end of the day, they're good people doing a job for a mere pittance. 1-3% of Royalties.

6) Tell me about your latest release

On March 1st, my Thriller Suspense novel, "Say Good Night," launched and I'm very excited about this one. I'm a retired Special Forces (Green Beret) Master Sergeant from the US Army and this book is a very highly fictionalized account of my 2009 tour of duty in Afghanistan with the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force. While it was based on actual events, and many of the characters will recognize themselves… No, never mind. Every single word of that book is FICTION. However, this book will be the pilot to a series. The next of which will involve several of my co-conspirators from over in the UK. The British will have a very strong presence in my next novel. You will be proud!

7) Tease us with a blurb or short excerpt: Sure, from "Sweet Chocolate's First Taste,"…

Excerpt

Instantly, I was captivated, and a little intimidated by both her age, almost thirty, and her luscious beauty. The woman—and she was a real woman, not a kid—had a pleasant round face with high cheek bones that gave it depth. She was tall, but still several inches shorter than my six feet, but I was struck by her very dark, coffee brown complexion, which seemed at odds with her flowing, shiny curls of gorgeous shoulder-length hair. My palms were sweaty at the thought of getting them on her beautiful, perfectly proportioned breasts. Those breasts seemed to call to me, with each sway and bounce. Her soft white cotton dress fit her form sensationally, hugging her upper body alluringly, accentuating the breadth of her torso before tapering down to her narrow waist, then loosely flowing over the graceful, but sweeping curve of her hips. My arms wanted to encircle that narrow waist, to lay my hand atop that scrumptious, perfectly developed ass, and then just pull her body to mine. To press our chests and hips together, to meld into a single being; to feel her softness pressed against my hardness. To feel the slope and curve of her back as those glorious breasts pressed against my chest. She was perhaps the most beautiful black woman I had ever met. All of these thoughts vanished quickly with my growing anxiety at my impending moment.

Still frantically undressing, Juan said, "Hey guys, I need the room for a while."

"Hey ya'll," she gave us a wave of her hand. "He and I have an...arrangement. If you guys want to make a similar arrangement…we're talking about forty dollars. Apiece." Until that moment, I had no idea she was a hooker. This intimidated me also. After all, she was a professional, while I was the most rank of amateurs. I was seventeen, remember, and a virgin.

Ed and I both jumped to our feet. Ed was first out with his wallet. "Well, that sounds like a fair price to me." He handed over the money. I was fast on his heels with two twenties.

…Look, this story isn't what you are thinking! This is a much better story than you think it's going to be! For just $1.99, you won't find a better story out there!

8) Which is your favorite character in the book? Why?

Trisha! And it will become obvious why that is when the reader gets more than a few paragraphs into the story. Yes, it really did happen this way! And, Yes again! I am a very lucky man! You have no idea just how much!

9) What are you working on right now?

Actually, I'm doing my final editing on a Thriller/Suspense novel that is a fictionalized account of my 2009 tour of duty in Afghanistan. I retired from the U.S. Army after 30 years service. I served over 23 years in Special Forces (Green Berets). This is a relatively short novel since it was driven by events on the ground, but still heavily fictionalized, nonetheless. This book, due to Launch on March 1st, will also be the pilot for a new series, called: "Code Name: Boxer," the first of which will be subtitled, "Arab Spring."

10) Your biggest piece of advice to aspiring novelists?

Don't get discouraged. Keep on building your vocabulary and refining your style and voice! It's clear that YOU Have something to say… Hell, everybody does! But now that you've got our attention, say it well…

Oh, by the way, that story, "Sweet Chocolate's First Taste"…? If there is another moral to that story, its' got to be: There is no substitute for professionalism! Write, act and sound like a professional! Eventually, you will be!

11) Where can readers find you?

At my webpage:

http://www.RichardBurnsBooks.com

Once again, I want to thank you for your time & consideration! You have been a fantastic host, a stimulating inquisitor and I am so looking forward to reading your stuff!!! I can't wait! What should I start with???

LOL! Start at the beginning, of course! My first story was Explicitly English available now - click on the cover on the right hand side and you're away...

Okay, Richard is waiting to chat and take your questions.... :)

Welcome Lyrical and self-published author, Lux Zakari!

Welcome, Lux! Great to have you here ready and willing to answer my interrogating questions...well, sort of interrogating, nothing to be scared of!

Anyway, off we go...

1) Did you set any goals for 2012?

I did! I wanted to self-publish and do the cover for my newest release, Wild Arcana, and I'm happy to be able to scratch that off the list. I also intend to write and release two other books this year, and even venture out of the erotica/erotic romance genre.

2) What is the best part of the writing process for you?

I really enjoy the creative problem-solving aspect—getting stuck on some detail and then how the answer eventually strikes me, often at the strangest, most surprising time. I find that very satisfying. I also use writing to best help me describe and remember the world around me.

3) The worst part?

Receiving negative feedback always stings, especially when you've written something that really puts yourself out there. But when then happens, I try to ingest the critique logically: Who's giving the feedback? Could anything that person is going through attributed to their thoughts of the story? Is that person even your audience? More importantly, when you get down to the bones of it, is what that person is saying actually something of value that will improve the story? Consider all possibilities.

4) Favourite author/s & book/s?

I always say Nick Hornby's High Fidelity is my all-time top favorite. Most recently, I polished off what's available in George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series. It's not something I normally would've picked up, but now I'm despairing that I have to wait years until the next one!

5) Tell us about your latest release?

Absolutely—here's the blurb for Wild Arcana:

Five friends. One tarot card reading. Zero expectations—until fate stepped in.

SHANE, the movie star. He arrives at a rehabilitation clinic for his sex addiction only to be enticed in ways he never thought possible...
TREY, the contractor. He looks after his friend's deeply troubled stepsister under the guise of remodeling his New York City high-rise, but soon faces temptations that test the bonds of friendship and his self-control...
KRI, the Japanese heiress. Regrets haunt her when she learns she's pregnant and must leave her lover at the insistence of her strict, traditional father...
BRAND, the high-profile drug dealer. He wrestles with demons of his own after his boyfriend—a cop—ends their relationship over his questionable career path...
DISA, the wayward tennis player. She has her sights set on talk show host Jules Rohan with no idea just how much truth lies in his bad-boy reputation...

Their journey through the twenty-two cards of the Major Arcana in this high-society erotic novel reveals that nothing in life is left to chance—and they're more entangled in each other's lives than they ever could have imagined.

6) Tease us with a short excerpt:

They entered the high-rise, kicking their shoes off by the door, and Trey moved further into the living space, turning on all the lights. Her arms crossed, Marisol watched him expectantly, still with that amused look on her face. He forced a casual grin. "Well, girl, I better get some sleep." He faked a yawn and a stretch. "Happy birthday."

"You're not seriously going to bed," she said, her tone playful. "You can't ply me with tequila all night then leave me awake and all by myself on my birthday. It's not even midnight. You have to stay up with me." She pouted. "Otherwise I'll be bored and lonely."

It took Trey every ounce of strength he had not to take her lower lip in between his teeth. "What is it you want to do?" he asked, both anticipating and dreading her answer.

She dropped onto the couch like the Queen of Sheba. "Let's talk about how you find the will to get up every morning and jam that pole up your butt. You hide behind this laidback persona, but really, you're the most uptight person I've ever met."

Trey stared at her, speechless. The last thing he considered himself was uptight. He knew better, and he reminded himself to consider the source. Of course Marisol would find him stodgy. She was freaking nuts and had no idea he was staying in the high-rise to ensure she didn't completely lose her mind. Still, it bothered him to no end that she thought this of him.

She watched him, clearly expecting an answer, and he shook his head. "That's it. I'm officially declaring an end to your birthday. Goodnight."

"Don't be a party pooper. We didn't even get to talk about how you kissed me tonight."

He froze in the doorway and turned toward her. "What?"

"You heard me," she murmured, moving toward him.

Trey swallowed hard and forced himself to remain calm, his brain unable to comprehend that the conversation he'd been both fearing and looking forward to was actually happening. "Fine, we'll talk about it if you really wanna go there." He crossed his arms, hoping for a stern, no-nonsense expression. "But for the record, you were the one who kissed me."

"How could I forget?" She took another step closer, her fingertips dancing along the edge of a nearby armchair. "I'd also like to add to the record that I really want to do it again."

His breathing hitched, and he no longer focused on her words but rather on her hand, which moved to his belt buckle then up to his stomach, right beneath his navel. He willed his body not to react to her touch, but he fought a losing battle.

"And if I'm not mistaken," Marisol said, pressing her body against his, her fingernails gently scraping his neck as she moved her arms around his shoulders, "I think I'm not the only one."

7) What is your favourite attribute of the hero and heroine?

There are several characters running around in Wild Arcana. I don't like picking favorites, but I really enjoyed writing about Brand. Being a drug dealer, he has a skeptical career path but he's hard not to like; even when he's miserable, it's clear he cares for his friends and he does want to do right. And I love his friendship with Disa and their nasty but obviously playful banter; that was amusing to write.

8) What's next?

Next, I plan to release a novel titled Single, Cool and Fine: How to Get Laid as an Ex-Teen Idol about a musician in the throes of a divorce who realizes that, despite all the girls screaming for him for the past fifteen years, he has no idea how to date, so he turns to reading fan fiction penned about himself for ideas. It was one of the most fun stories I've ever written, and I think that it shows! I'm also working on my first non-erotic novel and pondering creating a series of illustrated writing prompt books.

9) Tell me where you write?

Wherever and whenever I get the chance! I like sneaking it between all the other things I do.

10) Where would you like your career to be in 5 years?

I would like to be well-versed in writing lots of different things! I like the room to move around, try a variety of avenues—I think it's important to do that so you're always growing.

11) Where can we find you?

On Facebook, Twitter, Good Reads and my site!

Lux is ready and waiting for your questions and comments - don't keep her waiting! :)