Krista Ames's Blog, page 106
August 14, 2013
Author, author... Skies of Gold by Zoe Archer
...read all about her !!
Please help me welcome Author Zoe Archer, Zoe can you tell us a little about yourself?
My mom taught me to read when I was four, and I haven’t stopped since. A friend of mine in high school introduced me to the world of romance, and while I loved the genre, I didn’t love how the power dynamic between the couple was always weighted toward the hero. They say to write the book you want to read, so I started writing romances with heroines just as kick-ass as the heroes.
On a more personal note, I was born in New York but grew up in Southern California, then went to undergrad and graduate school both in California and Iowa. Now I’m back in Southern California, where I live with my husband, fellow romance author Nico Rosso. He and I created the world of the Ether Chronicles together and switched off writing the books in the series.
What did you want to be when you were growing up or did you always want to be a writer?Pretty much from the get-go I wrote, but I was also really into visual arts, and toyed with a career as a book illustrator for a while, as well as costume designer. I’d also kicked around the idea of being a dramaturg or an academic specializing in the 18th century, but it always came back to writing.
When did you first start writing?About 10 minutes after I learned to read. Typical writer’s ego to hear a story and think, “I can do that!”
What is a typical writing day like for you? I’m lucky enough to write full time, so I set my alarm, get up, have coffee, and get to work. Then it’s a break for lunch and errands, then back to work. If I’m feeling virtuous, I work out somewhere in all that. But I’m not always virtuous.
Do you have any specific routine you follow or specific items you need with you when you write?I like to have headphones and music to help me block out the leaf blowers and other distractions.
What is your favorite part of writing? Is there anything you don’t like about being a writer?I like telling stories and traveling to places and doing things that I could never do in real life. But writing is a lonely and precarious business. If you want job security, look elsewhere.
What is your favorite length of book to write? (Short story, novella, full length novel) Why?At my MFA program, they kept pushing us to write short stories, but it was only afterward that I realized I liked writing novel length pieces best. I get to really dig in and create mood, setting, as well as develop character. Shorter lengths can be fun, too, though I find them a little more challenging.
How does your family feel about your writing and you being an author?They’re very proud. I’m really lucky to have so much support.
Is there a to-be-read waiting on your bedside table?Too many to count!
Just for fun, I have a few personal questions, Favorite 5Favorite Holiday: I used to love dressing up for Halloween. It’s been a while since then, though. Now a holiday is any day I can eat chocolate.
Favorite Drink: Root beer
Favorite Author: Non romance: Michael Ondaatje. Romance: Julie Anne Long.
Favorite Book: Non romance: The English Patient by Michael Ondaatje. Romance: Bliss, by Judy Cuevas (Judith Ivory)
Favorite Animal: Given that, as I type this, one of my cats is on my lap and pinning my arm to my leg, I’m going to go with cats.
And for a bonus: What is a typical mood for you? And is your mood different when you’re writing?Pensive, which is fairly consistent.
Where can our readers find you?? Email: zoe@zoearcherbooks.comTwitter: @Zoe_ArcherFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/zoe.archer1W... http://zoearcherbooks.comAmazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Zoe-Archer/e/B0... http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Is there an upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where can we find it?
I’m very excited about my latest release, a steampunk romance SKIES OF GOLD: THE ETHER CHRONICLES. You can find it at any digital book retailer and also as a POD through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, &c.
http://www.amazon.com/Skies-Gold-Ether-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B0092QRL6Ohttp://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/skies-of-gold-zoe-archer/1114590897?ean=9780062241443http://books.google.com/books/about/Skies_of_Gold.html?id=jNRuZNyZu5MChttps://itunes.apple.com/us/book/skies-of-gold/id556634216?mt=11
Skies of Fire: The Ether Chronicles
Two Lonely Hearts…Kalindi MacNeil survived the devastating enemy airship attack that obliterated Liverpool, but even her engineering skills can’t seem to repair her broken heart. Seeking to put her life back together, Kali retreats to a desolate, deserted island—only to discover she’s not alone. Captain Fletcher Adams, an elite man/machine hybrid, a Man O’ War, crashed his battle-damaged airship into this deserted island after Liverpool, never expecting to survive the wreck. But survive he did.One Desire…Believing he is nothing but a living weapon, Fletcher is wary of his new-found companion—a pretty, damaged, but determined young woman. Together they are stranded on the deserted island, and it is only a matter of time until desire gets the best of both of them. Soon Kali and Fletcher find they may be just what the other needed. But a danger from beyond the island puts them to the test. Will it rip them apart or bond their hearts forever?
******
One last thing before you leave us today. Do you have a favorite recipe you'd like to share? I like to cook and am always looking for new recipes to try and share.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars(Adapted from King Arthur Flour)2/3 cup (10 2/3 tablespoons) unsalted butter2 cups + 2 tablespoons firmly packed brown sugar1 teaspoon salt*1 teaspoon vanilla extract3 large eggs2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder2 3/4 cups King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour3 cups chocolate chips; or a combination of different flavored chips, or chips and nuts 1) Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9" x 13" pan.2) Melt the butter, and stir in the brown sugar. Add the salt and vanilla, stirring until well combined.3) Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape the sides and bottom of the mixing bowl midway through this process.4) Add the baking powder and flour, stirring to combine.5) Stir in the chips or other additions of your choice. [I like to add toffee chips-Z.]6) Scoop the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it to the edges with a wet spatula (or your wet fingers). Smooth the top as best you can.7) Bake the bars for 30 to 32 minutes, until they've risen, and their top is shiny and golden. A cake tester inserted into the center won't come out clean; in fact, the center of the very middle of the pan may look quite molten when you dig into it. But so long as no wet batter is showing farther out towards the edges, the bars are done. As they cool, the center will solidify.8) Remove the bars from the oven. Let the bars cool before cutting. Once bars are cool, wrap airtight. Store wrapped bars at room temperature for a couple of days.Yield: 2 dozen bars.
*****
Zoe it was a great pleasure for you to share a little bit of yourself and Skies of Gold with us :) I'm also excited for the great cookie bars recipe. My kids will love you!
Readers, make sure you take the time to go search out this book !
http://www.amazon.com/Skies-Gold-Ether-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B0092QRL6Ohttp://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/skies-of-gold-zoe-archer/1114590897?ean=9780062241443http://books.google.com/books/about/Skies_of_Gold.html?id=jNRuZNyZu5MC
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/skies-of-gold/id556634216?mt=11
Until next time, Happy Reading
Krista
Please help me welcome Author Zoe Archer, Zoe can you tell us a little about yourself?
My mom taught me to read when I was four, and I haven’t stopped since. A friend of mine in high school introduced me to the world of romance, and while I loved the genre, I didn’t love how the power dynamic between the couple was always weighted toward the hero. They say to write the book you want to read, so I started writing romances with heroines just as kick-ass as the heroes. 
On a more personal note, I was born in New York but grew up in Southern California, then went to undergrad and graduate school both in California and Iowa. Now I’m back in Southern California, where I live with my husband, fellow romance author Nico Rosso. He and I created the world of the Ether Chronicles together and switched off writing the books in the series.What did you want to be when you were growing up or did you always want to be a writer?Pretty much from the get-go I wrote, but I was also really into visual arts, and toyed with a career as a book illustrator for a while, as well as costume designer. I’d also kicked around the idea of being a dramaturg or an academic specializing in the 18th century, but it always came back to writing.
When did you first start writing?About 10 minutes after I learned to read. Typical writer’s ego to hear a story and think, “I can do that!”
What is a typical writing day like for you? I’m lucky enough to write full time, so I set my alarm, get up, have coffee, and get to work. Then it’s a break for lunch and errands, then back to work. If I’m feeling virtuous, I work out somewhere in all that. But I’m not always virtuous.
Do you have any specific routine you follow or specific items you need with you when you write?I like to have headphones and music to help me block out the leaf blowers and other distractions.
What is your favorite part of writing? Is there anything you don’t like about being a writer?I like telling stories and traveling to places and doing things that I could never do in real life. But writing is a lonely and precarious business. If you want job security, look elsewhere.
What is your favorite length of book to write? (Short story, novella, full length novel) Why?At my MFA program, they kept pushing us to write short stories, but it was only afterward that I realized I liked writing novel length pieces best. I get to really dig in and create mood, setting, as well as develop character. Shorter lengths can be fun, too, though I find them a little more challenging.
How does your family feel about your writing and you being an author?They’re very proud. I’m really lucky to have so much support.
Is there a to-be-read waiting on your bedside table?Too many to count!
Just for fun, I have a few personal questions, Favorite 5Favorite Holiday: I used to love dressing up for Halloween. It’s been a while since then, though. Now a holiday is any day I can eat chocolate.
Favorite Drink: Root beer
Favorite Author: Non romance: Michael Ondaatje. Romance: Julie Anne Long.
Favorite Book: Non romance: The English Patient by Michael Ondaatje. Romance: Bliss, by Judy Cuevas (Judith Ivory)
Favorite Animal: Given that, as I type this, one of my cats is on my lap and pinning my arm to my leg, I’m going to go with cats.
And for a bonus: What is a typical mood for you? And is your mood different when you’re writing?Pensive, which is fairly consistent.
Where can our readers find you?? Email: zoe@zoearcherbooks.comTwitter: @Zoe_ArcherFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/zoe.archer1W... http://zoearcherbooks.comAmazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Zoe-Archer/e/B0... http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Is there an upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where can we find it?
I’m very excited about my latest release, a steampunk romance SKIES OF GOLD: THE ETHER CHRONICLES. You can find it at any digital book retailer and also as a POD through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, &c.
http://www.amazon.com/Skies-Gold-Ether-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B0092QRL6Ohttp://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/skies-of-gold-zoe-archer/1114590897?ean=9780062241443http://books.google.com/books/about/Skies_of_Gold.html?id=jNRuZNyZu5MChttps://itunes.apple.com/us/book/skies-of-gold/id556634216?mt=11
Skies of Fire: The Ether Chronicles
Two Lonely Hearts…Kalindi MacNeil survived the devastating enemy airship attack that obliterated Liverpool, but even her engineering skills can’t seem to repair her broken heart. Seeking to put her life back together, Kali retreats to a desolate, deserted island—only to discover she’s not alone. Captain Fletcher Adams, an elite man/machine hybrid, a Man O’ War, crashed his battle-damaged airship into this deserted island after Liverpool, never expecting to survive the wreck. But survive he did.One Desire…Believing he is nothing but a living weapon, Fletcher is wary of his new-found companion—a pretty, damaged, but determined young woman. Together they are stranded on the deserted island, and it is only a matter of time until desire gets the best of both of them. Soon Kali and Fletcher find they may be just what the other needed. But a danger from beyond the island puts them to the test. Will it rip them apart or bond their hearts forever?******
One last thing before you leave us today. Do you have a favorite recipe you'd like to share? I like to cook and am always looking for new recipes to try and share.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars(Adapted from King Arthur Flour)2/3 cup (10 2/3 tablespoons) unsalted butter2 cups + 2 tablespoons firmly packed brown sugar1 teaspoon salt*1 teaspoon vanilla extract3 large eggs2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder2 3/4 cups King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour3 cups chocolate chips; or a combination of different flavored chips, or chips and nuts 1) Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9" x 13" pan.2) Melt the butter, and stir in the brown sugar. Add the salt and vanilla, stirring until well combined.3) Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape the sides and bottom of the mixing bowl midway through this process.4) Add the baking powder and flour, stirring to combine.5) Stir in the chips or other additions of your choice. [I like to add toffee chips-Z.]6) Scoop the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it to the edges with a wet spatula (or your wet fingers). Smooth the top as best you can.7) Bake the bars for 30 to 32 minutes, until they've risen, and their top is shiny and golden. A cake tester inserted into the center won't come out clean; in fact, the center of the very middle of the pan may look quite molten when you dig into it. But so long as no wet batter is showing farther out towards the edges, the bars are done. As they cool, the center will solidify.8) Remove the bars from the oven. Let the bars cool before cutting. Once bars are cool, wrap airtight. Store wrapped bars at room temperature for a couple of days.Yield: 2 dozen bars.
*****
Zoe it was a great pleasure for you to share a little bit of yourself and Skies of Gold with us :) I'm also excited for the great cookie bars recipe. My kids will love you!
Readers, make sure you take the time to go search out this book !
http://www.amazon.com/Skies-Gold-Ether-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B0092QRL6Ohttp://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/skies-of-gold-zoe-archer/1114590897?ean=9780062241443http://books.google.com/books/about/Skies_of_Gold.html?id=jNRuZNyZu5MC
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/skies-of-gold/id556634216?mt=11
Until next time, Happy Reading
Krista
Author, author....
...read all about her !!!
Today I have the pleasure of hosting a great author, please welcome...
Emily Walker !!
Thank You Very Much Now Don’t Over-PromoNow admit it, you sang that to the tune of MR. ROBOTO. It’s okay, I meant for you to. Thank you so much Krista for letting me guest on your blog today and share my new release.
How to Not Over-Promo
You just had release day and you are squeeing inside, so excited and you just want to tell the world!
It’s fine to hop on Facebook, Twitter and in your co-workers’ faces and let them know, ONCE. I stress this because you are going to want to post every time you get a review, every time a blog mentions you, every time your rank goes up on Amazon, just don’t do it. Why? You can over-promote yourself. While it might get some people to say I have seen this so many times I have to go and see what it is. It might cause others to say, I am never buying this, or worse unfollow you due to the amount of times you have said -squee- or -happy dance- save those for when you have great news to share one time with them.
So how do you not over-promote yourself while still being active on Facebook and Twitter easy, be aloof with your promotions.
On Twitter tweet a line from you book, in between interesting things your dog is doing or what you have for dinner. It’s endearing, and it makes people want to follow you. Don’t just say buy this, read this, go here, go there. Engage with your followers, talk about all different kinds of things. You don’t want to be the author who is always asking people for things.
Ask other people to help you promote, but make sure you return the favor. Don’t ask people to share your link without doing the same for them. Make sure you are sharing often for other people even if they don’t ask. It will come back around, trust me.
Blog about things that don’t involve writing, and blog about things that will interest people. Don’t make your promotion all about promoting and it will work out a lot better. I promise. J
His Boss Lady
Emily Walker
Contemporary RomanceBlurb
Emma Michaels gets off on people calling her ma'am and fearing the sound of her four inch heels as she stomps by her employee's offices. The intelligent female worked hard to make partner at Johnson, Franks and Michaels and will not let anything distract her from work. With her path set firmly towards the future she has no idea that a young intern is coming to derail her plans. Tyler Higgins is proving to be a distraction that creates chaos and anxiety in Emma's world. Will the young and handsome Higgins take the exec to school or has she met her match?
Tyler Higgins is a shark. The master of everything he touches, comes from a long line of CEOs, and self-starting businessmen. Landing his dream internship was icing on an already well-dressed cake, but shadowing a woman was not what he had in mind. Emma Michaels' attitude about work drives him crazy, and he cannot help but test her every chance he gets. However, not wanting to shadow Emma does not stop Tyler from thinking of the naughty things he could do to the buxom brunette haired beauty. Yes, this is dangerous territory.
Buy LinksAmazon
Smashwords
PICK IT UP NOW AND MEET EMMA AND TYLER!
ExcerptEmma looked over the fact sheet the school had sent over about her intern and smiled. She was first in her class and involved in everything. That was exactly how Emma had been when she was in college. Lost in her memories of college days gone by, she didn’t realize that Deidre had stepped into the room until the receptionist cleared her throat. Startled, she jumped up out of her seat and eyed the ditzy girl.
“Someone is here to see you ma’am,” Deidre had one of those sickly sweet voices that made you want to strangle her. Motioning behind her, she called someone into the room and Emma’s world stopped for a minute.
She could tell the man was younger than her, but he was also well built. Every part of him screamed out, “I am a confident man and you should drape yourself across me like a scarf.” Where had that thought come from? She bit her lip and allowed her eyes to rake over his body and back up to his face. Sandy blond hair, full lips and even from her desk she could see he had striking blue eyes. His skin held on to the tan summer had given him even though they were well into fall now, and she might have forgotten to breathe when he parted his lips to speak.
“Ms. Michaels, I’m your intern, Tyler Higgins.” He stepped forward to shake her hand and her momentary haze she’d been lost in by his appearance dissipated with the words.
Was that anger she detected in his voice? Why was he in her office? Where was the straight A female who was going to change the world? “I’m supposed to have a girl.” She was ashamed at how meek her voice sounded when she spoke to him.
Walking over to the chair across from her desk he sat down in it and looked up at her. “I’m supposed to follow a man, so I guess we’re even.”
Emily Walkerhttp://www.facebook.com/authoremilywalkerhttp://www.twitter.com/authorewalkerhttp://www.selfpublishordie.comhttp://www.authoremilywalker.comhttp://www.reviewsfrombeyondthebook.blogspot.com
Today I have the pleasure of hosting a great author, please welcome...
Emily Walker !!
Thank You Very Much Now Don’t Over-PromoNow admit it, you sang that to the tune of MR. ROBOTO. It’s okay, I meant for you to. Thank you so much Krista for letting me guest on your blog today and share my new release.
How to Not Over-Promo
You just had release day and you are squeeing inside, so excited and you just want to tell the world!
It’s fine to hop on Facebook, Twitter and in your co-workers’ faces and let them know, ONCE. I stress this because you are going to want to post every time you get a review, every time a blog mentions you, every time your rank goes up on Amazon, just don’t do it. Why? You can over-promote yourself. While it might get some people to say I have seen this so many times I have to go and see what it is. It might cause others to say, I am never buying this, or worse unfollow you due to the amount of times you have said -squee- or -happy dance- save those for when you have great news to share one time with them.
So how do you not over-promote yourself while still being active on Facebook and Twitter easy, be aloof with your promotions.
On Twitter tweet a line from you book, in between interesting things your dog is doing or what you have for dinner. It’s endearing, and it makes people want to follow you. Don’t just say buy this, read this, go here, go there. Engage with your followers, talk about all different kinds of things. You don’t want to be the author who is always asking people for things.
Ask other people to help you promote, but make sure you return the favor. Don’t ask people to share your link without doing the same for them. Make sure you are sharing often for other people even if they don’t ask. It will come back around, trust me.
Blog about things that don’t involve writing, and blog about things that will interest people. Don’t make your promotion all about promoting and it will work out a lot better. I promise. J
His Boss Lady
Emily Walker
Contemporary RomanceBlurb
Emma Michaels gets off on people calling her ma'am and fearing the sound of her four inch heels as she stomps by her employee's offices. The intelligent female worked hard to make partner at Johnson, Franks and Michaels and will not let anything distract her from work. With her path set firmly towards the future she has no idea that a young intern is coming to derail her plans. Tyler Higgins is proving to be a distraction that creates chaos and anxiety in Emma's world. Will the young and handsome Higgins take the exec to school or has she met her match?
Tyler Higgins is a shark. The master of everything he touches, comes from a long line of CEOs, and self-starting businessmen. Landing his dream internship was icing on an already well-dressed cake, but shadowing a woman was not what he had in mind. Emma Michaels' attitude about work drives him crazy, and he cannot help but test her every chance he gets. However, not wanting to shadow Emma does not stop Tyler from thinking of the naughty things he could do to the buxom brunette haired beauty. Yes, this is dangerous territory.
Buy LinksAmazon
Smashwords
PICK IT UP NOW AND MEET EMMA AND TYLER!
ExcerptEmma looked over the fact sheet the school had sent over about her intern and smiled. She was first in her class and involved in everything. That was exactly how Emma had been when she was in college. Lost in her memories of college days gone by, she didn’t realize that Deidre had stepped into the room until the receptionist cleared her throat. Startled, she jumped up out of her seat and eyed the ditzy girl.
“Someone is here to see you ma’am,” Deidre had one of those sickly sweet voices that made you want to strangle her. Motioning behind her, she called someone into the room and Emma’s world stopped for a minute.
She could tell the man was younger than her, but he was also well built. Every part of him screamed out, “I am a confident man and you should drape yourself across me like a scarf.” Where had that thought come from? She bit her lip and allowed her eyes to rake over his body and back up to his face. Sandy blond hair, full lips and even from her desk she could see he had striking blue eyes. His skin held on to the tan summer had given him even though they were well into fall now, and she might have forgotten to breathe when he parted his lips to speak.
“Ms. Michaels, I’m your intern, Tyler Higgins.” He stepped forward to shake her hand and her momentary haze she’d been lost in by his appearance dissipated with the words.
Was that anger she detected in his voice? Why was he in her office? Where was the straight A female who was going to change the world? “I’m supposed to have a girl.” She was ashamed at how meek her voice sounded when she spoke to him.
Walking over to the chair across from her desk he sat down in it and looked up at her. “I’m supposed to follow a man, so I guess we’re even.”
Emily Walkerhttp://www.facebook.com/authoremilywalkerhttp://www.twitter.com/authorewalkerhttp://www.selfpublishordie.comhttp://www.authoremilywalker.comhttp://www.reviewsfrombeyondthebook.blogspot.com
August 13, 2013
Author, author... J.L. Berg ~ When You're Ready + giveaway
When+Banner.jpg)
Today we have J.L. Berg, please give her a warm welcome !!
Hi J.L., so glad you could make it !! Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Absolutely! I’m a California native, but have lived in Virginia for the past ten years and now consider it home. I’ve been married to my wonderful husband for twelve years, and we have two adorable daughters. I’m obsessed with chocolate and have a serious addiction to romance novels.
What did you want to be when you were growing up or did you always want to be a writer?
Growing up, I probably wanted to be everything at least once. I was quite the dreamer. At one time, I wanted to be an astronaut until I found out how much science was required...that dream was quickly shelved. Since then, I've wanted to be anything from a teacher to archaeologist. Eventually I settled on a major in psychology, eventually working in higher education. The idea of becoming a writer occur until much later, not because I didn't want to, but because it took that long to build up the courage to try.
When did you first start writing?
I’ve always had a love of writing. When I was younger, creative writing was a hobby for me. All too soon writing became a constant requirement in school, and creativity was quickly replaced with term papers and written exams. It wasn’t until after I completed college and my children were a bit older that I was finally able to renew my love for reading which eventually reignited my passion for creative writing.
What is a typical writing day like for you?
A typical writing day for me is completely chaotic. I work full time, and I’m also a mom/wife. I write whenever I get a free moment.....on my lunch break, or while dinner is cooking. But usually my most productive time is after the kids go to sleep or if I’m lucky, on the weekends. I have a fantastic husband and he’s always willing to give me uninterrupted time during the weekend to get the words out of my head.
Do you have any specific routine you follow or specific items you need with you when you write?
I usually have my iPhone near me, so I can listen to some music if I need some inspiration. I always have google up, and a thesaurus! Oh, and chocolate. Chocolate is always near. :-)
What is your favorite part of writing? Is there anything you don’t like about being a writer?
My favorite part of writing is when my muse takes over. I can outline a book or specific scene as much as I want, but when I sit down to write it, something else takes over entirely. My fingers start flying and the scene begins to build and take on a life of its own. It’s really a beautiful thing. Something I don’t like? Formatting! Formatting books for print and e-books makes me batty. Which is why I have my husband do it!
What is your favorite length of book to write? (Short story, novella, full length novel) Why?
Well so far I’ve only written full length novels. Right now, I’m working on the second novel of The Ready Series. I tend to be fairly long winded, so I don’t know if I could condense a story into an novella, but who knows! I’m always up for anything!
How does your family feel about your writing and you being an author?
My daughters think it’s awesome. They go around telling everyone their mommy is an author. Of course, they have no idea Mommy writes romance novels! But I do appreciate the support. My husband thinks having a romance author for a wife is great. He especially enjoys the research phase of the book writing process. ;-)
Is there a to-be-read waiting on your bedside table?
For a long time it was Twilight. Stephanie Meyer brought my love for reading back, and Twilight was the first romance book I had picked up in years. But, right now it’s Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire. I freaking love that book. It makes you laugh and cry...you want to throw your e-reader against a wall at times. It’s the perfect example of what a good book should be, an experience. It should suck you in and leave your world completely altered.
And for a bonus: What is a typical mood for you? And is your mood different when you’re writing?
My typical mood is very even tempered. I’m good natured, and love to laugh. When I write however, my mood tends to match my characters. I write in first person, and sometimes I need to be in the right frame of mind to write pain, anger or even lust. Feeling these emotions as I write helps accomplish something equally real on the page, and I think readers relate better when it comes from an honest place.
Where can our readers find you?? Email: author@jlberg.comTwitter: @authorjlbergFacebook: www.facebook.com/authorjlbergWebsite/blog: www.jlberg.comAmazon author page: Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/authorjlberg
Is there an upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where can we find it?
When Your Ready
Blurb
When Clare Murray suffers the tragic loss of her husband Ethan, leaving her alone to raise their infant daughter, she feels the grief overwhelming her, seeping into her very soul. Weeks later, she stumbles upon an envelope with the words “When You’re Ready” written in Ethan’s familiar messy handwriting, but can’t bring herself to breach the seal. Ready for what? He was her entire world, and Clare has accepted a life without him, without love. Until, years later, fate brings her to an emergency room, and face to face with stormy eyed doctor intent on changing her mind.Logan Matthews is the son of a billionaire who has spent his entire life trying to make his absent father proud. Years of living up to man who more ghost than father, and a public failed marriage has left Logan cold and emotionless until he walks into an exam room to discover a woman who stops his heart, makes his body burn with desire and leaves his entire world altered.
But how far are Clare and Logan willing to go for love? When their love is tested, is Clare ready to put her whole heart on the line again? Can Logan learn the true meaning of love, even if it means sacrificing his own happiness? When a second chance at love is given, Clare and Logan learn you never know you are truly ready until you’re ready to risk it all.
Buy Links Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/333007Amazon ---> http://amzn.to/169jEwMAmazon UK ---> http://amzn.to/134DetzBarnes and Noble ---> http://bit.ly/13DCXxu
Add to Goodreads Shelf:http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17...
Adult excerpt below rafflecopter!
Don't forget the rafflecopter below !!
One last thing before we let you leave us today, do you have a favorite recipe you'd like to share? I like to cook and am always looking for new recipes to try and share.
Okay, here’s a recipe for you. This is my Grandma’s, and one of my favorites. I make these every year and they are always a huge hit. One of them will literally do you in - they are really rich.
Anna Mae Cross’s Graham Cracker Delights2 Cups graham crackers (finely crushed - I used a food processor)2 stick of melted butter (no joke)1/2 cup peanut butter (don’t use natural)1 cup coconut1 cup finely chopped nuts (I usually use pecans, but you can sub for whatever you like)3 cups powdered sugar2 large bags semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted. Mix together graham crackers, melted butter and peanut butter in an electric mixer until well blended. Add in all other ingredients, except chocolate. Mix until blended. Melt chocolate chips over double boiler until melted.Mixture will be crumbly. With clean hands, form small round balls, and dip in melted chocolate, covering completely. Cool on sheets of wax paper until chocolate has hardened. Enjoy!
Rafflecopter Giveaway($20.00 Gift Card Amazon, B&N, Kobo or iBooks)
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Excerpt*Contains Adult Content*
A knock on the door marked the entrance of yet another person. As I turned my head, I found myself face to face with the real-life version of Dr.McSteamy entering the exam room. Is this our doctor? Holy hell, I think I just whimpered a little.
Tall and built like a swimmer, he was sexiest thing I’d ever seen in a pair of scrubs. Like the sky right before a summer storm, his eyes bordered between gray and blue, and I couldn’t help but stare into their thunderous intensity. His hair was dark brown that edged near black and had that “just fucked” look to it. The kind of hair that made you want to run your hands through it. How did guys do that? Did they spend time creating that look in a mirror, or was it really a product of being fucked? I suddenly wanted to know. Oh shit, was I drooling? Did he say something?
He was looking right at me, waiting
“Are you the mother?” he asked. His eyebrow arched in question. A really hot question.Seriously, Clare…get your mind out of the gutter.
“Uh, yes. I’m Clare Murray. This is my daughter Madilyn, uh, Maddie,” I said, trying to cover up the fact that I had probably been standing there for an ungodly amount of time, lamely staring at him and forming my own mini puddle of drool, while he tried to get my attention back on my sick daughter.
Yup, best mother ever.
“Nice to meet you Ms. Murray, I’m Dr. Matthews.” Turning to Maddie, he said “And this must be the princess.”
Calling Maddie a princess earned him major brownie points, and I think I even heard a faint giggle. She immediately looked up, her big brown eyes connecting with his as he began the examination.
Dr. Matthews bent down, leaning over her tiny frame and ran his hand over Maddie’s head. I knew he was checking for any bumps or abnormalities, but his gesture seemed protective and my heart did a little flip flop seeing my daughter in the arms of another man.Done with his physical exam, he settled himself at the end of the hospital bed and motioned for me to take a seat in the chair positioned next to Maddie. It was a small room, making us all very cozy. I could feel the heat radiating off his body. His really, really hot body. His eyes lingered on mine briefly, and I felt the blush start to creep up my cheeks. A quick smirk flashed across his face before he began speaking.
“Well, your nurse already gave me some of the details on what lead to Maddie’s injury this afternoon. Sounds like you had an eventful day,” he said, giving Maddie a gentle smile.
She looked up at him like he’s the king of the world, which surprised me. Maddie’s generally not a fan of men, having not been around many in her life.
“But it looks like a classic concussion. Her skull feels normal, and I don’t see any signs of swelling or bleeding. I’m going to go ahead and order a CT just to rule out anything major and make sure we've covered all of our bases. But more than likely she’ll be back to her old self in a few days,” he said, offering reassurance.
I nodded absently, those stark white walls starting to tighten around me. It’s not the fact that he wanted a test that sent me into an instant panic attack. I understood the precaution. I was glad Dr. Matthews was taking the time to do so, and I appreciated his thoroughness. It was the way in which he said it. The exact phrasing. One sentence, and the memory came back to haunt me, flooding my mind and taking over my senses.
Ethan sat down next to me on the bed. He looked at me with those dark brown eyes and concerned, loving look. He knew I always worried about everything.
“Baby, I don’t need any more tests. The doctor says they’re only migraines,” he said. “The CT came back normal which rules out anything major. I don’t want to fight with the insurance company to get an MRI. You know they aren’t going to pay for it, so why bother?” He pulled me down onto our bed so that we were laying side by side.
“It’s going to be fine. So please, stop worrying.” He pleaded, leaning in to kiss me slowly, desperately trying to change the subject. He pulled away, looking at me with a devious grin plastered on his face. “Besides, we have more important things to think about right now,” he whispered, looking down my body slowly and appreciatively.
“Oh, yeah? I can’t think of anything,” I said, faking a yawn and stretching my arms out wide. “I think I’m going to go to sleep. Night!”
I tried to keep my face steady, but I couldn’t help the grin that escaped, and before I could cover my mouth to hide it, he attacked and I squealed with laughter. He straddled my body, pinning me to the bed with his knees, and trapping my wrists above my head in his tight grasp.
“Shhh! This is the first night in weeks the baby has been asleep for more than an hour, and you’re going to ruin it with your squealing horse laugh!” He leaned down to kiss me, chuckling.
“I do not laugh like a horse!” I pouted.
The annoyance in my voice melted as his trailing kisses reached my neck and meandered down to my shoulder, taking the strap of my nightgown with him. He pulled my body firmly against his and slowly made his way back to my mouth, kissing me so fiercely that every other thought melted away. Tests and headaches were left in the past.
If only I had been more persistent, more demanding…taken him to more specialists…
“Are you sure the CT will be enough? Nothing will be overlooked? I asked, escaping from the memory that had held me captive. Fear was evident in my voice. I knew everything was fine, and what happened with Ethan had been rare, but the irrational panic was there nonetheless.
Maddie is not Ethan. Maddie is not going to die. I silently chant, feeling the calm beginning to return.
I looked up at Dr. Matthews, and he was watching me with concern and confusion painted all over his gorgeous face.
Awesome. Good job, Clare. Now the hot doctor thinks you are crazy.
********
J.L., excellent excerpt and that recipe sound delicious !!! Thanks so much for being with us today and sharing yourself and your new book ! Please come back anytime :)
Readers, make sure you get your copy of When You're Ready. This is one you don't want to miss out on !
Buy Links
Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/333007Amazon ---> http://amzn.to/169jEwMAmazon UK ---> http://amzn.to/134Detz Barnes and Noble ---> http://bit.ly/13DCXxuUntil next time, happy reading !!
Krista
August 6, 2013
Author, author.... Spotlight on INK IN THE BLOOD
Ink in the bloodChandra Ryan
Prequel to Bond BetrayedIzzy has lived between two worlds her entire life—one filled with magic and darkness, the other populated by mundane humans. She was born into the magical world of the Community. But sexy, forbidden DEA agent Jacob belongs to the other. He has no idea her world even exists.But that doesn’t mean he hasn’t noticed her. They’ve worked together for the past six months, attempting to bring down her drug-dealing half-brother while driving each other crazy with pent-up desire. But now that it’s time to say goodbye, they both find it impossible to let go.After one passionate night together Izzy realizes her mistake. She can’t bring him into her world. She has to end things before she gets too attached. When he refuses to leave, she must find a way to guide him through the darkness.Inside Scoop: In this scorching urban fantasy, ink is thicker than blood.A Romantica® paranormal erotic romance from Ellora’s CavePublisher’s Note: This book was previously published elsewhere under this title in 2010, but has been revised for Ellora’s Cave. EXCERPT She’d almost made it to the next section when a familiar face grabbed her attention. He was wearing tight jeans and a black t-shirt instead of the suit that she’d grown accustomed to seeing him in, but there was no mistaking his smile. Or his lean, muscular physique.As if hearing her thoughts, he looked up. His gaze caught hers for a second before he began making his way toward her.“Isabella.”“A—” Realizing she was about to call him Agent Phinney, she stopped and shook her head to clear it. “Um, Jacob. This is a surprise.” She couldn’t help but wonder how he’d gotten past the guards.He smiled rakishly as he ran his fingers through his short black hair. It was a gesture she’d become endeared to over the past six months. “I know, small world.”“What are you doing here?” She’d expected to see him, but not until the bust had gone down. And, try as she might, she couldn’t think of a single good reason for him to be at the bazaar. Admittedly it was difficult for her to think of anything at all given his proximity. He was so close she could smell the spicy mint of his shampoo and her arm would brush against his chest if she swayed ever so slightly.“I’m on a date.”The words snapped her out of her haze. He didn’t seem to notice, though. He was too busy staring at the voluptuous redhead several people ahead of them whose singed fingertips hinted at fire manipulation.That explained security. With someone like her as a date, they’d have let him through, no questions asked.“Funny, she isn’t what I’d imagined as your type.” Izzy realized that he could never be hers, not really, but she didn’t like the idea of him being with someone else. Especially when that someone could manipulate fire. In her experience, pyros were one of the more dangerous types. They tended to run hot in all things—including their emotions. “She looks kind of dangerous.”“Although I do go for the dangerous type,” he whispered with a playful wink, “you’re right. She just happened to be in the right place at the right time—here.”Hearing his words, a possible reason for his presence became painfully clear. “Wait. Are you checking up on me?”He looked genuinely hurt. “I thought you knew me better than that. I’m here as backup, nothing more,” he whispered softly.He’s human, he’s human, he’s human…The warning echoed softly in the recesses of her mind. But as his fingers tucked a lock of her hair behind her ear, it faded into silence. “I couldn’t live with myself if anything happened to you on my watch,” he said.
Buy links :Ink in the Blood
Authors Bio:
Being from a rather nomadic family, Chandra Ryan loves to travel and meet people. But she’s found that sometimes, like when you’re stuck inside because of a good old-fashioned Southwestern heat wave, you have to make do. Fortunately for her and her loving family, who don’t like seeing her suffer from cabin fever, she’s found creating new people and places equally as fascinating. Also, you’re a lot less likely to spill your ice tea.TWITTER FACEBOOK WEBSITE
August 5, 2013
Author, author.... Spotlight on THE LAST EXECUTION
The Last ExecutionByJerrie Alexander
To survive, she must put the past behind her. To love, she must learn to trust.Homicide detective Leigh McBride's first assignment with the FBI brings her face-to-face with a past she's tried hard to forget. And when her temporary partner, a cynical ex-marine, lights a fire in her she thought long-extinguished, her darkest secret is threatened.
Scarred both physically and emotionally, Special Agent J. T. Noble is a man of few words. He prefers to keep people at a distance—until he meets Leigh. He's attracted to her strength and drawn in by her secrecy. But in their line of work, secrets can be deadly.
When the killer they are hunting aims his vigilante justice at Leigh's past assailant, the fine line between right and wrong blurs. To heal the past—and find their future together—Leigh and J. T. must learn that only through trust and forgiveness can love grow.
Buy Links: Barnes & Noble, Amazon, The Wild Rose Press.
Excerpt:Ethan turned his head sideways as he studied J.T.’s face. Wide eyed, the boy pointed at the scar with his index finger. J.T. wasn’t surprised. The kid was probably curious. “How’d you get that?” “A piece of shrapnel—” He paused and considered Ethan’s age. “I was in the war. A bomb went off and a piece of metal smacked me in the face.” “Does it hurt?” “Not anymore.” J.T. marveled at the innocence in Ethan’s eyes. “Can I touch it?” “I guess so.” J.T. breathed in and waited. Ethan hesitated, leaning closer. “I’m not supposed to talk about your scar.” “Who said?” “Mama.” “It’s okay. I won’t tell.” J.T. turned his head to the side. No one had outright asked to touch the constant reminder of a day when his best friend caught the worst of an IUD. Hell, people shied away from his right side. Except Leigh, she looked him square in the face. He lay still while Ethan poked a finger into the scar a couple of times. After a few seconds of investigation, the kid cupped the scar with his small hand and patted lightly. The oddest thing happened to J.T.’s heart. It swelled inside his chest and then clenched. “Mama said you were a brave soldier.” Alien emotions swirled through J.T. and an unexplained urge to hug Ethan put a weird lump in J.T.’s throat. Unable to cope or understand, his mind raced for an idea, anything to end the moment. ~~~~~
Giveaway: Win one of two copies of The Green-Eyed Doll by Jerrie Alexander
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Author the Author:
A student of creative writing in her youth, Jerrie set aside her passion when life presented her with a John Wayne husband, and two wonderful children. A career in logistics offered her the opportunity to travel to many beautiful locations in America, and she revisits them in her romantic suspense novels. But the characters went with her, talked to her, and insisted she share their dark, sexy stories with others. She writes alpha males and kick-ass women who weave their way through death and fear to emerge stronger because of, and on occasion in spite of, their love for each other. She likes to torture people, make them suffer, and if they’re strong enough, they live happily ever after.
The author of THE GREEN-EYED DOLL, and THE LAST EXECUTION, Jerrie and her husband live in Texas. She loves sunshine, children’s laughter, sugar (human and granulated), and researching for her heroes and heroines.
Website Blog Twitter Facebook Goodreads Pinterest
August 2, 2013
Review: Wanted: Wife by Lacey Wolfe + giveaway
Wanted Wife
by:
Lacey Wolfe
Blurb
Help Wanted: A Wife
Darcy White can't believe she's answering a help wanted ad from someone looking to
hire a wife, but she's hit rock bottom and is on the verge of being evicted from her apartment. When she learns that the guy she had a crush on in high school is the one looking to hire, she'd be crazy not to live out her fantasy.Steven McDonald needs a wife, or at least a fiancée, before his grandfather retires or else he won't inherit the family business. He knows not just any woman will do, and in a desperate attempt to find a solution, he places a help wanted ad in the local paper. The day Darcy White answers it, his dreams begin to come true.
As Darcy and Steven pretend they're engaged, they make a promise to keep things platonic. But the more time they spend together, the harder it is to keep their hands off one another. With his grandfather's retirement approaching, and the possible end to their fake engagement, can Steven and Darcy admit their feelings to not only themselves but each other?
Content Warning: contains adult language and sensual love scenes
Link to Follow the Tour: http://tastybooktours.blogspot.com/2013/04/now-booking-tasty-review-tour-for_4538.html
My Review:
Fantastic writing Lacey Wolfe !! I love the premise of this story. Kind of like your modern day mail-order-bride. Who couldn't pass up $1000 a week? And being single, what would you have to lose?
I also loved these two characters, Darcy and Steve. It was a perfect twist that they actually knew each other from high school and unknown to both of them, they had crushes on each other.
It killed me how they tried so hard to keep things platonic and only be friends but having an intimate physical relationship would make their fake engagement seem more real, at least i think so. Our author did a great job creating to likable and lovable characters. They fit together like they were made for each other but isn't there always one in the mix that has to ruin things? I don't like Terry at all!!
Ok, I could go on and on about this story but you need to read it yourselves because you will love it ! I will say though that the ending definitely had me wiping away a few tears :)
Kudos to Ms. Wolfe, and this story absolutely deserves 5 stars!!
Buy Links Amazon / Nook / Beachwalk Press / All Romance / Kobo
Excerpt"I'm making coffee, want any?" Darcy called from the kitchen.
As Steven entered the kitchen he said, "I'd love a cup."
Steven leaned against the counter. Darcy poured water into the coffee maker and then scooped the coffee in. After she pressed the brew button, she turned and stared back at him.
"That wasn't so bad," he said.
She nodded. "Yeah, it was okay."
Steven laughed. "Your parents were kind." He reached his hand out toward her.
Darcy walked to him, taking his hand.
"Your dad gave us his blessing."
"I had no doubt he would. Your family is well known."
Steven wasn't sure what had come over him, maybe it was the scotch he'd shared with her dad, but he couldn't resist the beautiful woman in front of him. He tugged her to him, and her body molded against his perfectly. With his free hand, he pushed her hair behind her ear and then pressed his lips to hers. He expected resistance from her, but she opened up right away, wanting the kiss as much as he did.Sliding his hand around her neck, he tilted her head so he could deepen the kiss. Her fingers danced around his waist and the little sensation went straight to his groin. Releasing her hand, he gripped her waist and pulled her into him. He was hard and it pressed into her and she didn't seem to mind. Damn this woman! She should be pushing away from him, reminding him they were to stay friends, but instead he kept hoping her hand would find its way lower.
Could they do this once and then pretend it never happened? His erection was telling him yes, but his brain was telling him no. He started to pull away from the kiss, but Darcy wouldn't let him.
God, he was turned on and wanted to touch her, taste her, explore her. He needed her!
"Stop, Darcy." He pushed her off him.
She stepped back, a shocked look on her face.
"I can't control myself. I want to take you to bed so bad."
"I want that too." She moved closer to him again and wrapped her arm around his neck and let her other hand dangle at his waistband. "Can't we have a little fun?"
Do it or not? Yes or no? His core ached and taunted him. Taking a deep breath, he decided to listen to the head below.
He lifted Darcy up and sat her on the counter. His lips were everywhere. Her neck, collarbone. His hands were greedy as they worked the buttons on her blouse. "Stop me now, Darcy."
She gazed into his eyes and then cupped his erection through his pants. "No."
"No turning back?"
"No turning back."
Author Info
Lacey Wolfe has always had a passion for words, whether it’s getting lost in a book or writing her own. From the time she was a child she would slip away to write short stories about people she knew and fantasies she wished would happen. It has always been her dream to be a published author and with her two children now of school age, she finally has the time to work on making her dream come true.Lacey lives in Georgia with her husband, son and daughter, their six cats and one black lab who rules the house.
You can find Lacey at the following places:Facebook / Facebook Page / Twitter
Rafflecopter Giveaway ($5.00 Amazon Gift Card)a Rafflecopter giveaway
July 30, 2013
Release Day Book Blast: Outside the Lines by Kimberly Kincaid
Outside the Lines
by Kimberly Kincaid
BlurbAs an ivy-league ER doctor who eats double shifts for
breakfast (and lunch…and dinner), Blake Fisher has little appetite for anything other than work. Being on the staff at Brenstville Hospital means taking care of people, a need Blake understands all too well from losing his brother to cystic fibrosis eight years ago. When he’s asked to coordinate a carnival fundraiser for the cause, he jumps at the chance to help others with the disease…until it lands him side by side with the one woman he never thought he’d see again: his ex-fiancée.Streetwise and rough around the edges, Jules Shaw is no stranger to earning a living through hard work. But when her job as the restaurant manager of Mac’s Diner puts her shoulder to really broad shoulder with Blake Fisher, she nearly balks. She’d rather dodge and deflect than admit the real reason she broke things off, but the catering contract for the carnival means big business for Mac’s, and feeding people is Jules’s lifeblood.
As Blake and Jules join reluctant forces, they quickly rediscover the spark between them. But the possibility of a future together hinges on coming clean about the past, with potentially devastating consequences. Can Blake and Jules overcome their drastically different backgrounds and learn to love again, or will they always be outside the lines?
Link to Follow the Tour: http://tastybooktours.blogspot.com/2013/06/now-booking-release-day-tasty-book.html
Buy Link: Amazon
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18070953-outside-the-lines
Author Info
Kimberly Kincaid writes contemporary romance that splits the difference between sexy and sweet. When she's not sitting cross-legged in an ancient desk chair known as "The Pleather Bomber", she can be found practicing obscene amounts of yoga, whipping up anything from enchiladas to éclairs in her kitchen, or curled up with her nose in a book. Kimberly is a 2011 RWA Golden Heart® finalist who lives (and writes!) by the mantra that food is love. She has written two digital novellas, Love On The Line and Drawing The Line, about hot cops and sexy chefs, with a third novella, Outside The Lines, due this summer. She is also thrilled to have collaborated on a Christmas anthology with Donna Kauffman and Kate Angell, titled The Sugar Cookie Sweetheart Swap, to kick off her Pine Mountain foodie series with Kensington this October. Kimberly’s first full-length novel, Turn Up the Heat, will follow in February 2014. She resides in northern Virginia with her wildly patient husband and their three daughters. Visit her any time at www.kimberlykincaid.comor come check her out on Facebook (www.facebook.com/kimberly.kincaid1) and Twitter (@kimberlykincaid).
Author Linkswww.kimberlykincaid.comwww.facebook.com/kimberly.kincaid1 http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6938229.Kimberly_Kincaid
July 29, 2013
Author, author... Guest Tara Chevrestt + giveaway
...read all about it !!! Please welcome a guest post from Tara Chevrestt
Losing My Sex Scene VirginityWhen I first penned Love Request (my first ever romance), I said, “I’m not going to have a sex scene. Nobody needs it. We all know part A goes into part B.” And so I wrote a lovely little story about two people meeting, falling in love, all that, and though I had them “doing it”, it was closed door. They entered the room, shut door, kissed, said words of love, end of scene. The next scene was pillow talk.This book got contracted with a romance publisher the first time around. I received my edits. To the right of my MS was a little comment box. “We don’t do closed-door sex. Tell us what happens here.” And even though there was a little smiley face with it, I gasped. “Noooo! I cannot write sex! My family will disown me!”I said this to the editor. The editor asked the higher ups. They said, “No sex at all, not even implied OR the scene must be there.”This being a contemporary romance and the characters being who they were, I needed them to have relations for the story line to reach the satisfying conclusion (yes, that’s a pun) I was aiming for. I felt between a rock and a hard place (another pun). I was deeply embarrassed and frustrated by this turn of events. A consultation with a very important person was in order.I texted my dad. The conversation went something (not exact) like this:Me: Dad! So I signed over this romance story I wrote, and they want me to add sex! And it’s already contracted! I’m so upset!Dad: Why?Me: Cause it’s SEX! How will you and Mom feel about me writing that?Dad: Sex doesn’t have to be nasty. Make it special between two people that love each other. It will be a beautiful thing then.And later, my editor said, “It will help show their relationship evolve.”After two hours of pulling my hair, texting my dad, emailing my editor, and ranting to my pug, I finally sat down at the computer and wrote my first sex scene. When I was no longer with that publisher and I had an offer for the book from another publisher, provided I removethe sex, I didn’t want to, because it really was a special thing between two people who love each other. Hunter and Ciara...what they have is love, love that has transcended a hella lot of time.I rejected that offer and I couldn’t be happier with its home with Pagan Writers Press now. And the relationship-evolving sex stayed. ;)I’ve wrote many more since then. You could say I finally broke a barrier (bad pun!) that night.But I’ll tell you a secret *lowers voice and glances around* as a reader, I often skip the sex scenes!
So, tell me, readers, how important is sex in a book to you? When is appropriate and when is it too much?
Giveaway: Our author is offering a Digital Copy of Love Request so please leave your comment below, including your email for a chance to win. Tell Tara, 'how important is sex in a book to you? When is it appropriate and when is it too much?'
BlurbWhen Ciara Littleton takes the plunge and finally joins Facebook to
socialize without the limits that her hearing impairment gives her, on a whim, she looks up a childhood friend. In sending him that first message, she ignites the memories of a crush from twenty years ago. But can a simple friend request fix all that stands between them and lead to something more?
Hunter has a lot on his plate. A recent divorce, a pregnant sister, and now, he realizes he's in love with a woman who lives states away. Can he overcome the boundaries of Internet romance to make this desire turn into something real, or will adversity and distance be their undoing--adversity being in the form of his very own sister--the woman who bullied Ciara so mercilessly long ago?
Buy Links:Digital Smashwords & Amazon & Amazon UK & Nook
Print Amazon & Barnes & Noble
Author Info
Tara Chevrestt is a deaf woman, former aviation mechanic, writer, and an editor. She is most passionate about planes, motorcycles, dogs, and above all, reading. That led to her love of writing. Between her writing and her editing, which allows her to be home with her little canine kids, she believes she has the greatest job in the world. She is very happily married.
Her theme is Strong is Sexy. She shares a website with her naughty pen name: http://tarachevrestt.weebly.com/index.htmland they have a Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tara-Chevrestt-Sonia-Hightower/218383211513877
Please feel free to follow the entire tour here: http://tastybooktours.blogspot.com/2013/05/now-booking-tasty-virtual-book-tour-for_9898.html
Losing My Sex Scene VirginityWhen I first penned Love Request (my first ever romance), I said, “I’m not going to have a sex scene. Nobody needs it. We all know part A goes into part B.” And so I wrote a lovely little story about two people meeting, falling in love, all that, and though I had them “doing it”, it was closed door. They entered the room, shut door, kissed, said words of love, end of scene. The next scene was pillow talk.This book got contracted with a romance publisher the first time around. I received my edits. To the right of my MS was a little comment box. “We don’t do closed-door sex. Tell us what happens here.” And even though there was a little smiley face with it, I gasped. “Noooo! I cannot write sex! My family will disown me!”I said this to the editor. The editor asked the higher ups. They said, “No sex at all, not even implied OR the scene must be there.”This being a contemporary romance and the characters being who they were, I needed them to have relations for the story line to reach the satisfying conclusion (yes, that’s a pun) I was aiming for. I felt between a rock and a hard place (another pun). I was deeply embarrassed and frustrated by this turn of events. A consultation with a very important person was in order.I texted my dad. The conversation went something (not exact) like this:Me: Dad! So I signed over this romance story I wrote, and they want me to add sex! And it’s already contracted! I’m so upset!Dad: Why?Me: Cause it’s SEX! How will you and Mom feel about me writing that?Dad: Sex doesn’t have to be nasty. Make it special between two people that love each other. It will be a beautiful thing then.And later, my editor said, “It will help show their relationship evolve.”After two hours of pulling my hair, texting my dad, emailing my editor, and ranting to my pug, I finally sat down at the computer and wrote my first sex scene. When I was no longer with that publisher and I had an offer for the book from another publisher, provided I removethe sex, I didn’t want to, because it really was a special thing between two people who love each other. Hunter and Ciara...what they have is love, love that has transcended a hella lot of time.I rejected that offer and I couldn’t be happier with its home with Pagan Writers Press now. And the relationship-evolving sex stayed. ;)I’ve wrote many more since then. You could say I finally broke a barrier (bad pun!) that night.But I’ll tell you a secret *lowers voice and glances around* as a reader, I often skip the sex scenes!
So, tell me, readers, how important is sex in a book to you? When is appropriate and when is it too much?
Giveaway: Our author is offering a Digital Copy of Love Request so please leave your comment below, including your email for a chance to win. Tell Tara, 'how important is sex in a book to you? When is it appropriate and when is it too much?'
BlurbWhen Ciara Littleton takes the plunge and finally joins Facebook to
socialize without the limits that her hearing impairment gives her, on a whim, she looks up a childhood friend. In sending him that first message, she ignites the memories of a crush from twenty years ago. But can a simple friend request fix all that stands between them and lead to something more?Hunter has a lot on his plate. A recent divorce, a pregnant sister, and now, he realizes he's in love with a woman who lives states away. Can he overcome the boundaries of Internet romance to make this desire turn into something real, or will adversity and distance be their undoing--adversity being in the form of his very own sister--the woman who bullied Ciara so mercilessly long ago?
Buy Links:Digital Smashwords & Amazon & Amazon UK & Nook
Print Amazon & Barnes & Noble
Author Info
Tara Chevrestt is a deaf woman, former aviation mechanic, writer, and an editor. She is most passionate about planes, motorcycles, dogs, and above all, reading. That led to her love of writing. Between her writing and her editing, which allows her to be home with her little canine kids, she believes she has the greatest job in the world. She is very happily married.Her theme is Strong is Sexy. She shares a website with her naughty pen name: http://tarachevrestt.weebly.com/index.htmland they have a Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tara-Chevrestt-Sonia-Hightower/218383211513877
Please feel free to follow the entire tour here: http://tastybooktours.blogspot.com/2013/05/now-booking-tasty-virtual-book-tour-for_9898.html
July 27, 2013
My Sexy Saturday
Welcome to My Sexy Saturday.
Saturdays are my favorite day. Besides getting to sleep in, well actually maybe that's the reason :) My hubby is always up so early during the week for work so come Saturday, it's absolutely sexy to feel him snuggled up behind me knowing we have nothing we need to do and nowhere we have to be. Do you think Saturdays are sexy?
So,every Saturday, a great *growing* group of authors will post 7 paragraphs, 7 lines or 7 words from their published book or a current work in progress (WIP). Today my 7 will come from...
Second Nature(book 1 in the Second Series)
I'm sorry I don't have a cover but this work is currently in edits with The Wild Rose Press.
7 sentences...(or thereabouts)
Her hand shot out of nowhere and slapped him hard across the face. Her finger tips trembled. She’d never done anything like that before.
Nick rubbed the red spot on his cheek, his mouth dropping open.
“You’re an asshole!” She proceeded to move toward the door, “I’ll walk home.
His hand quickly snaked out and grabbed her wrist, whirling her about-face so fast she almost tripped over her own feet. “I don’t think so, little lady.” He then smothered her lips with his until she couldn't form a coherent thought. She sighed in consent.
Damn.
Please stay tuned for cover and release information :)
Make sure you follow My Sexy Saturday on Facebook, anddon't forget to visit all the other My Sexy Saturday stops.
Saturdays are my favorite day. Besides getting to sleep in, well actually maybe that's the reason :) My hubby is always up so early during the week for work so come Saturday, it's absolutely sexy to feel him snuggled up behind me knowing we have nothing we need to do and nowhere we have to be. Do you think Saturdays are sexy?
So,every Saturday, a great *growing* group of authors will post 7 paragraphs, 7 lines or 7 words from their published book or a current work in progress (WIP). Today my 7 will come from...
Second Nature(book 1 in the Second Series)
I'm sorry I don't have a cover but this work is currently in edits with The Wild Rose Press.
7 sentences...(or thereabouts)
Her hand shot out of nowhere and slapped him hard across the face. Her finger tips trembled. She’d never done anything like that before.
Nick rubbed the red spot on his cheek, his mouth dropping open.
“You’re an asshole!” She proceeded to move toward the door, “I’ll walk home.
His hand quickly snaked out and grabbed her wrist, whirling her about-face so fast she almost tripped over her own feet. “I don’t think so, little lady.” He then smothered her lips with his until she couldn't form a coherent thought. She sighed in consent.
Damn.
Please stay tuned for cover and release information :)
Make sure you follow My Sexy Saturday on Facebook, anddon't forget to visit all the other My Sexy Saturday stops.
July 26, 2013
Cover Reveal: Weak at the Knees by Jo Kessel
Weak at the Knees
by
Jo Kessel
Blurb:
“We got so busy living life that we forgot to live our dreams.”
.jpg)
Danni Lewis has been playing it safe for twenty-six years, but her sheltered existence is making her feel old ahead of time. When a sudden death plunges her into a spiral of grief, she throws caution to the wind and runs away to France in search of a new beginning. The moment ski instructor Olivier du Pape enters her shattered world she falls hard, in more ways than one.Their mutual desire is as powerful and seductive as the mountains around them. His dark gypsy looks and piercing blue eyes are irresistible. Only she must resist, because he has a wife – and she’d made a pact to never get involved with a married man.But how do you choose between keeping your word and being true to your soul? Weak at the Knees is Jo’s debut novel in the new adult, contemporary romance genre – a story about love, loss and relationships, set between London and the heart of the French Alps.
Goodreads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18195781-weak-at-the-knees
Author Info
Jo Kessel is a journalist, working for the BBC and reporting and presenting for ITV on holiday, consumer and current affairs programs. She writes for several national newspapers in the UK including the Daily Mail, the Telegraph, the Guardian and the Express and was the anonymous author of the Independent’s hit column: Diary of a Primary School Mum.When Jo was ten years old she wrote a short story about losing a loved one. Her mother and big sister were so moved by the tale that it made them cry. Having reduced them to tears she vowed that the next time she wrote a story it would make them smile instead. Happily she succeeded and with this success grew an addiction for wanting to reach out and touch people with words. Jo lives in London with her husband and three children. She loves traveling and since becoming a mother anything even remotely sad makes her cry. She’s a sucker for a good romance and tearjerker movies are the worst. She’s that woman in the cinema, struggling to muffle audible wails as everyone else turns round to stare.Author LinksGoodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18195781-weak-at-the-kneesWebsite: http://www.jokessel.com/Blog: http://www.jokessel.blogspot.co.uk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kesseljo
@jo_kessel
