Krista Ames's Blog, page 95

Author, author... Sasha Hibbs with Black Abaddon

 ...read all about her !! 




Welcome to Sasha Hibbs, so great to have you here with us.  Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Thanks for having me today! I work as a behavioral health nurse during the day, and I’m a writer by night. I have two beautiful little girls, a wonderful husband, love HBO, the beach, and of course books!   
Do real life events find their way into your stories?
Hmm…I would have to say that real life situations have inspired me and through me, my writing.
   Do you ever mimic family members or people you know when you choose characters?
Sure. There are some strong characteristics I’ve ran across and implemented into some of my own characters.
   Do you find yourself going back to the same inspiration for each story or is it always something different?
A mixture of things inspire me-music, a certain place, a certain time…I wrote Black Abaddon around Halloween and that inspired some scary themes in my new novel.
   When do you write?  Early morning? During the day sometime or all day?  After the kids go to bed?
Whenever the opportunity presents itself. I try to balance out working a full time job, having children and writing. It can be…interesting J   
How do you feel about marketing your book?
It’s essential to market your book, otherwise, how will anyone know it’s out there? With that said, I think it’s imperative to not overdo it and take a humble approach to soliciting your novel.



What social sites do you feel work best for marketing?
Facebook would have to be a huge outlet. Twitter works well for connecting with readers and other writers. I also really like Goodreads.    
Do you like to pitch stories to your publisher or do you wait until you have written the story and have a final manuscript to turn in?
Oh, I definitely wait until I have the completed proofed, formatted, and polished manuscript before even thinking about submission!   
Is there any other genre that you would love to try writing?  If so, what is it?
Over the last year I’ve become fond of Dystopian. I think it would be interesting to try dabbling in that genre.    
Do you always/ever see yourself as the heroine/hero when you write a story?
No. I like to write them sure enough, but none of them have been a reflection of myself.   
Just for fun, I have a few personal questions, 
Favorite 5
1)     Favorite Male Actor  - Clark Gable
2)     Favorite vehicle – Subaru
3)     Favorite way to relax – Reading and drinking a fresh cup of coffee J
4)     Favorite ice cream – Ben and Jerry’s-Cherry Garcia
5)     Favorite outfit – I wear too much black, so anything I guess in that color and preferably corduroy
And for a bonus:  If you could pick any place in the world to live, besides where you are now, where would it be?  (Of course, without the hindrance of jobs or money needed)
I’ve always been fascinated by New Zealand…so probably there J
 
Where can our readers find you?? 
Twitter: @SashaHibbs
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sasha-Hibbs/658779730814634?ref=hlWebsite/blog: http://sashahibbs.blogspot.com/Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Sasha-Hibbs/e/B00H13UK04/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18367540-black-amaranth 
 
Is there an upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where can we find it?
  My second novel, Black Abaddon. I’m super excited about book 2 in the Vulcan Legacies series because the ending of Black Abaddon is what I envisioned before penning the first book (Black Amaranth). So, to see it come to life is something too exciting for me to put into words.   
Goodreads    Amazon    Evernight Teen Book description:  Ally Watson struggles to live with the choices she made, the worst of which resulted in her soul mate's death.  Michael's sacrifice to save the girl he loved may have reversed the Apocalypse, but not the permanent damage inflicted by living with his loss. Ally begins a journey where she soon discovers that death is not always the end, but sometimes the very beginning.  With old friends, she journeys to the Nosferatu Nation where she meets with new alliances willing to help her in her quest to defeat the Devourer.  At every turn, Ally unearths secrets that threaten to destroy those she loves. The second installment of The Vulcan Legacies series will put Ally to the ultimate test, forcing her to face her fears and the true destiny she will fulfill as Azrael, the Seraph of Death.  Excerpt: She walked over directly beside of Marik. Ally quickly unlaced the IV from him, pretending not to notice Marik’s nares flaring. She knew he could smell her life force. “What…are you…doing?” Marik said through ragged breaths. “I want to leave here. I want to leave everyone. I want them to be safe. I cannot do that on my own. I need protection, I need a guide,” Ally said. She swallowed hard at what she was about to do. “And I want you to come with me. You’re not strong enough to leave. You need blood and I’m going to give that to you.” “No!” Marik said. Struggling, he turned his head away from her scent. “You have the blood of a Seraph. I am not…worthy of such a gift. Please leave me, go now…before I cannot control myself.” “Once, that may have been true. Currently, I seem to only have human blood coursing through my veins. I offer it now. I offer you your health back in exchange for your protection, in exchange for you getting me out of here.” Ally cupped his face. Marik was too weak to resist her. “Come with me. Take me away from here,” Ally said. Ally could see his eyes growing dark with hunger. She could also see the struggle in his eyes. His lips parted to say something, but Ally cut him off. “Shh.” Ally didn’t know where her courage was coming from. She wasn’t afraid. Somewhere buried deep, she knew this was the right thing to do. She felt like for the first time, she was on the right course. “I need you strong. Take from me, because…” Ally had no idea where the next words came from, but they slipped from her lips, “I need you.” Ally could see her words effecting Marik. He had lost the struggle, this sudden battle Ally presented him with while at his weakest. He brought one hand up to rest across hers and the other hand gently latched onto her wrist where her blood trickled out. His gaze never wavered from hers as he brought her wrist down on his lips. Ally didn’t know why, but as she felt his tongue flicker over her wrist, it felt right to run her fingertips through his raven black hair.   *    *    *    *    *    *
 Ok Sasha, 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.
Yes.  I love Buffalo Chicken Dip.
2 (10 ounce) cans chunk chicken, drained
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup Ranch Dressing
3/4 cup pepper sauce (such as Frank's Red Hot)
1 ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1 bunch celery, cleaned and cut into 4 inch pieces
Heat chicken and hot sauce in a skillet over medium heat, until heated through. Stir in cream cheese and ranch dressing. Cook, stirring until well blended and warm. Mix in half of the shredded cheese, and transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, cover, and cook on Low setting until hot and bubbly. Serve with celery sticks and crackers.  *    *    *    *    *    *Sasha thank you so much for joining us, sharing a bit about yourself, your book and this recipe, I love this stuff !!!!  I also can't wait to read Black Abaddon !  Please stop by and see us again soon ! Until next time, happy reading !! Krista  


Cover Reveal: Taking Nicole by Krystal Shannon



TAKING NICOLE Vegas Mates, Book 4   By Krystal Shannan   The last thing Nicole Demakis remembers was getting in the car with Sarah’s kidnapper and driving away. Now she faces the cold hard truth. The kidnapper, an agent of the Council, is her mate. But he refuses to claim her, and the Council may take everything away before she even has a chance to convince him to trust her.   Aaron Katsaros was ordered to deliver Nicole to her grandparents, the Antipas royal wolves. It should’ve been an easy task. Clean. No hiccups. But this infuriating woman, this wolf, his mate…is one hiccup after another and she’s arousing him to the point of pain. With his sister’s life hanging in the balance, he refuses to allow his passion to cost him the only family he has left.   Can he find a way to save his mate, or will he be forced to watch another claim the woman he loves?  
      RELEASES MARCH 13th     ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Krystal Shannan goes to sleep every night dreaming of mythical realms with werewolves, vampires, fae, and dragons. Occasional a fabulous, completely human story slips into the mix, but powers and abilities usually crop up without fail, twisting reality into whatever her mind can conceive.   As a child, her parents encouraged her interests in Ancient Greek and Roman mythology and all things historical and magickal. As an adult, the interests only grew. She is a child of Neverland and refuses to ever stop believing in fairies. She is guilty of indulging in and being a Buffy the Vampire Slayer groupie as well as an Angel fan. For those of you unfamiliar with the world of Joss Whedon, you are missing out!   She also makes sure to watch as many action and adventure movies as possible. The more exciting the better. Yippee-Ki-Yay... If you don't know the end of that phrase, then you probably don't like the same movies.   She enjoys reading romance in all genres, but especially paranormal. Her favorite book is ACHERON by Sherrilyn Kenyon. But really, if it has a 'Happily Ever After', she's on board!   Krystal writes stories full of action, snark, magick, and heart-felt emotion. If you are looking for leisurely-paced sweet romance, her books are probably not for you. However, for those looking for a magickal ride, filled with adventure, passion, and just a hint of humor. Welcome home.   Krystal Shannan Putting Magick in Romance one Soul Mate at a Time. ___________________________________ Receive a free book for subscribing to my NEWSLETTER! www.krystalshannan.com www.theromancetroupe.com www.satinsheetsromance.blogspot.com Facebook Friend & Fan | Newsletter | Blog Twitter | GoodReads | Amazon    

Author, author... Glory Days by DeZre Storm

... read all about it !!





Welcome, so great to have you here with us.  Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Hi everyone, DeZré Storm here. I write for D Storm Novels, a one stop destination to find all my public works under one house. I’ve been a storyteller for well over a decade and began seriously studying the art of writing about four years ago. I write cross genre fiction with steaming sensuality. I enjoy small gatherings of close friends with a bit of wine or rum. My favorite meal of the day is breakfast, brunch and brinner. *grin* Oh yeah, an occasional bison burger, too.  
Do real life events find their way into your stories?
Absolutely. There isn’t a way to make a story real without giving the reader something to relate to. For example, Forged Through Glory takes place in a future where mankind has modified our DNA and now traverse the stars as various breeds. However, as a species we still face the need for energy, food, medicine and intelligence. All these things can be seen around us in current events involving the price of gas, the ethics on genetically engineered foods (that can certainly cure hunger and malnutrition around the globe), to the availability of public healthcare and education. In the world I create, science is left alone to focus on the advancement and well being of mankind as a whole. The issue of allowing science to cure the ailments of mankind is even a current hot topic often burdened with religion and politics which seek to further their agendas and not mankind. All of these aspects of the Glory Dog world reflect in our own to draw the reader deeper into a fantasy existence.   
Do you ever mimic family members or people you know when you choose characters?
No way. All my characters are make-believe. Period.



Do you find yourself going back to the same inspiration for each story or is it always something different?
I’m a cross-genre and multi-genre writer. My inspiration is as varied as the stories I tell. Themes play a bigger part in my inspiration in the Sci-Fi genre than anything else. I believe my contemporary fiction will always have a spark of what multicultural couples go through in today’s society, but that only serves for realism in the beginning of the relationship and isn’t exactly for inspiration purposes.
   When do you write?  Early morning? During the day sometime or all day?  After the kids go to bed?
No hard and fast rules for me. In the writing world, there’s an awful lot of advice to have your own office and scheduled times, but life doesn’t run that way for everyone. Writing is a very sedentary lifestyle, so early mornings are reserved for my workout routine. Afterwards the day is filled with work, homework, activities, dinner; cleaning…you know how that goes. I nab time here and there, never really being unplugged from the laptop until my head hits the pillow. Sometimes I’ve got the laptop next to my head while my text to speech software is running. What can I say? You have to love what you do.
   How do you feel about marketing your book?
Marketing is still new to me. Forged Through Glory of the Glory Dogs Series is my first public title, so I’m green to going live with publication. I really don’t have a solid opinion on the topic because I love writing more than anything, but marketing is necessary from a business perspective. I don’t love the marketing, but I don’t hate it. I’d say the only reason why I don’t love it now is because I’m still learning it and that takes away from my writing time. However, if I want writing to pay the bills some day, I must market. I think I’ll like it as time goes along and I learn what works best for me.
   What social sites do you feel work best for marketing?
Hm, let’s see. I like Twitter because it’s super fast, short and sweet, but it doesn’t give a lot of room to learn about your audience. Facebook gives an opportunity to really get to know people and have conversations with them, see their posts and learn what they’re into, but it strips away precious writing time. Good reads is nice and blogging is fun. Blogging feeds the inner writer. I think overall it probably is the most comfortable form of marketing not only for me, but other writers. It can be scary because it’s very personal work and most writers are introverted. I’m no different.
   Do you like to pitch stories to your publisher or do you wait until you have written the story and have a final manuscript to turn in?
I’m a final manuscript person. I don’t like pitches because my story and characters have been known to dance around on the page doing whatever they want without my permission. I find working this way fun and much more heartfelt than trying to fit my characters and story into an expectation. I do have rules to writing in order to open and close a story without going on forever, but for the most part, my characters determine the outcome. My outlines are loose and changeable. I think if I pitch a story, that’s the story I should turn in. I’d feel really crappy if I pitch something and can’t deliver it because I got stuck in writing the story over some detail in the outline that just isn’t working out.
   Is there any other genre that you would love to try writing?  If so, what is it?
I started out with Romantic Suspense, but I suck at it. I think since the first novel I wrote was a romantic horror I wanted to stick with serial killers and bad men. I still have that work in progress that’s marinating under the bed because I thought that’s where my talent was. I write in the contemporary and erotic romance genres under different pen names already and leave Sci-Fi and paranormal to the DeZré brand. I’ve written in Sci-Fi and paranormal since my early years and recently crossed into the erotic genres just because my intimacy scenes are wonderfully graphic. These just come more naturally to me. I’d still like to pound out a Romantic Suspense or strengthen the one that’s sitting around.
   Do you always/ever see yourself as the heroine/hero when you write a story?
My characters tend to come to me and not from me. I don’t see myself as any of my heroines or heroes. Through the character interview process I learn about them. It’s the emotions they inspire within me with their personal stories that add the bit of zing to my storytelling. Above all, I write fiction and fantasy spawns that. What makes the character real is the emotion and life they’ve experienced in their world. I see it that way, even when I’m working in the contemporary genre under my other pen name with characters that are more real to us because they live in our time.
 
Just for fun, I have a few personal questions, 
Favorite 5
1)     Favorite Male Actor  -
Mark Wahlberg…uh, so hot. He’s number one of my top 5. I had a poster of him when he was with The New Kids, all buff in his undies. Oh…so yummy. I like how he’s not a pretty boy and has that hard edge look to him. It’s not all about the body. I love his diversity of skill from movies like Four Brothers to Ted, and now Transformers. OMG. Gotta see that one. But, the awesome bod certainly helps. Come to think of it, my top 5 guys all have hot buff bods.
2)     Favorite vehicle –
’73 Chevy Nova SS with the fat tires and racing stripes. Wanna see me melt? Just roll up in that. I love the sound of a muscle car. It screams, “I’m gonna eat you.” Chrome is the greatest, from bumpers to bikes. Hands down.
3)     Favorite way to relax –
Relax? Um, I don’t do that very much. Husband, kids, job, dog, writing; you know the drill. I think the writing is my relaxation time, but the hubby says it doesn’t count because it’s work. Work I love and enjoy. I try to argue my point that it takes place in a quiet room…mostly. He won’t let me get away with that. I guess the only time I relax is when I take the kids to taekwondo or the pool without my laptop, kindle or phone. That’s rare.
4)     Favorite ice cream –
Butter Pecan. Mm. I can taste it now. I don’t care what brand or if there’s fifty thousand other flavors available. Butter pecan is it for me. If it’s not available, I go for cherry vanilla or plain vanilla. No toppings. I want the full flavor without interference.
5)     Favorite outfit –
I love gothic style but hate that everything’s black, grey or red. Whatever happened to pink, blue, gold and green? Just ‘cause it’s gothic doesn’t mean it should be drab. When not having to represent for the family or job I go for a corset, gothic style blazer or coat, black pants and cute chunky heels or boots. If it’s a kid function, I’ll stick with big hair, cowgirl hat, T-shirt, jeans and boots. Just like my stories take place all over the universe, my style is the same. I think that might come from only shopping the clearance rack. *grin*
 
And for a bonus:  If you could pick any place in the world to live, besides where you are now, where would it be?  (Of course, without the hindrance of jobs or money needed)
I would live in a cave by the sea outfitted with a hot tub and fresh water pond where the temperature is never below seventy or above ninety degrees Fahrenheit. My place would have complete internet access, breakfast/burger delivery by boat for those days I couldn’t catch any fish, crab or muscles to chomp. What? We all know I write fiction, right? *shrug* Why wouldn’t my perfect place be the same?
   Where can our readers find you?? 
Twitter: @dezrestorm
Facebook: www.facebook.com/dezre.stormWebsite/blog: www.dstormnovels.com & www.dezrestorm.comAmazon author page: www.amazon.com/author/dezrestormGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/Dezre_Storm  
Is there an upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where can we find it?
The current Sci-Fi Action Adventure GLORY DOGS: Forged Through Glory will be free Friday, February 28th only at Amazon.com in compliance with the D Storm Novels February Free Fridays event. Mark your calendars and visit the link. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00H6TLV88 If you would like, you can copy the twitter message to spread the word amongst your fellow Sci-Fi tweeple.

 
Are you ready for a Sci-Fi adventure filled with erotic moments and heart pounding action? Snuggle up as you traverse the stars with a unique bunch of futuristic humans that collide into mystery, danger and intrigue. DeZré Storm's Sci-Fi Action Adventure GLORY DOGS: Forged Through Glory is packed with exploits and sensuality guaranteed to keep you panting.
Enjoy book one of this epic saga. Don't miss your chance to own GLORY DOGS: Forged Through Glory!
** Series contains adult situations and open sexuality. **
Don’t stay warm…stay HOT.
Available only at Amazon http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00H6TLV88
Trailer @ http://youtu.be/4ycaccrK-3Y
Don't have a Kindle? Download the Kindle App on your phone, tablet or PC HERE.
 
Tweet:
Last chance to download the Sci-Fi Romance #GloryDogs: Forged Through Glory #FREE today. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00H6TLV88
Reviews:
5 out of 5 stars Wonderful!!!! February 3, 2014
By Bethany Aan, Author
I got this book because it was free. Am I ever glad I did! I had no idea the ride I was about to take.

Glory Dogs is, I believe, just about the perfect melding of high-tech sci-fi and romance/erotica. The story is deep and involved, the characters equally so. It's nearly 4 am and I just finished it. I was unable to sleep, unable to put it down once I started reading last evening. At 8pm. Yup. I was hooked.

I came for the sex (no pun intended, but on a personal note, you will probably want to check your battery stash, if you know what I mean!), but stayed for the adventure.

Kudos to Ms. Storm for a truly intriguing, well-developed roller-coaster ride of a novel.

And dammit... I hope number two is coming out soon!!! What a way to end the book!!! Resolution... yes, but no. Be forewarned: this is obviously part of a space saga... not all your questions will be answered in the first book. But it will be totally worth it to be on board from the start for this series!

First thing I did upon finishing the book was check to see if there were any more by this author. Wow! I'm an instant fan!
 
4 out of 5 stars Spicy SciFi February 17, 2014
By Melissa C
Yeah, this one is quite a spicy tale! Naughty isn't a strong enough word for it, since it's super hot! I really liked this mixing of genres. The sci-fi elements were especially fun, since I'm a geek and have a soft spot for that genre. Then there's the naughty bits. Plenty of heat to get your pulse racing, and plenty of mmmm to keep even the biggest fans of both genres happy!

This is, from what I gather, the start of a series and I am SO delighted to hear that! The story ends in a way that is satisfying but also leaves you wanting just a little bit more..
 
 
I have my first public contemporary coming out this summer, Have Your Cake under author name D.S Roi. Keep track of the progress on any of my sites or follow me on Twitter. @dezrestorm


 
    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.
My all time favorite recipe is a potato soup copycat of Olive Garden’s Zuppa Tuscana. I LOVE that soup and the rendition of it on http://mapandthemaker.wordpress.com/   blog nearly brings me to tears. I use sage Italian sausage and it’s absolutely spot on.    

Author, autho... Her Sister's Wedding by @JaneAinslie

...read all about it !!!     Today we have Jane Ainslie with us and are asking her, What's your motivation to write  & what's next on the writing block?  Hi Krista, thanks so much for having me on your blog.   I’ve always loved telling stories, so it seemed natural to want to be a writer. Finding the motivation to write was easy at first, and writing was very exciting. Then came the downside of rejection letters, self doubt, and after eventual publication, the realisation of how much work is involved in writing.  Getting your writing noticed is hard. To get back to the original question, for me motivation comes from a love of writing, and the joy of storytelling (not the thought of a million dollar book deal!) And as everyone says, you have to be motivated to learn your craft and make each book you write, better than your last.   I had so much fun writing Her Sister’s Wedding, I’m going to write another romance for my next project. Typing away at your computer while creating a world where people falling in love, now there’s some motivation to write!   *     *     *     *     *     *  
Her Sister’s Wedding
By
Jane Ainslie
 
A Sweet Contemporary Foodie Romance (Chicklit) 
  BLURB FOR HER SISTER’S WEDDING:
What happens when you meet the right person at the wrong time?
  Melbourne-based food journalist Mandy Evans has Paris firmly in her sights. She’s got a chance at her life-long dream of studying art in the City of Love, but not before she has to be a ring-in bridesmaid at her sister’s wedding. After setting up his latest restaurant in Melbourne, renowned American chef Jake Pearson is leaving for his next project in Miami. He’s the hottest ticket in anyone’s town, with a burning ambition to conquer the world, but not before he’s best man at his friend’s wedding.

 When Mandy and Jake meet, the attraction is instant. He loves her sassy, natural style, and her appetite for great food. She thinks he’s the best thing since sliced bread, or even martinis. Fate gives them a chance at love when they are partners at the same wedding, but can either of them compromise their ambitions to let love grow? 


   BUY LINKS: 
Amazon USA:   http://www.amazon.com/Her-Sisters-Wedding-Jane-Ainslie-ebook/dp/B00H018XVU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1392656738&sr=8-1&keywords=Her+Sister%27s+Wedding
Decadent Publishing:   http://www.decadentpublishing.com/product_info.php?products_id=874&osCsid=mjir0fnpfn50qccl5hu8odjcp2
Barnes & Noble:   http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/her-sisters-wedding-jane-ainslie/1117539110?ean=2940148811299Smashwords:    http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/383769
  
  Excerpt: 
 “You have a bit of sauce on your mouth.” He reached out with his finger and traced it along her top lip, removing the imaginary sauce. Mandy shuddered as Jake took her face in his hands, turned it towards him, and kissed her. This time, the intensity of the kiss sent every nerve in her body into overdrive as the longing and desire fired throughout her. Jake moved his hand down her back, pulling her closer along the length of his body. She could feel his desire for her pressing against her, and she moaned as his tongue slid between her lips. Reaching up, she grabbed his hair, pulling him closer to her, while the intensity of the kiss stopped time in its tracks, but unfortunately, not the burner on the stove.
 
“Oh no, the sauce!” Jake broke away as they both turned to look at the saucepan. The sauce had black, burnt bits floating in it.
 
“That looks like something I would cook.” Mandy leaned against Jake, laughing. He reached over and switched off the burner.
 
“This is where a sieve and a kitchen out of view of your dining public comes in handy. Where were we?”
 
“I think you were going to lift me up onto the kitchen bench.” Mandy hopped up onto the bench top. “Then I was going to wrap my arms and legs around you and we were going to…”
 
Jake didn’t need any further instruction as he pulled Mandy to him once again, this time more gently. His tongue parted her lips, as they slowly, sensually explored each other. Jake’s hand slid to her breast, as she ran her hands down his back. 
“This is giving me an appetite, and I’m not just talking about a semi-burnt sauce.”
 
“Maybe we should pace ourselves a little.” Mandy put her head on his chest. She could hear his heart hammering against his ribs “I’m just a little scared I’m going to end up like the sauce otherwise.”
 
“What, lumpy?”
 “No, burnt around the edges. We are playing with fire.”   *     *     *     *     * 
 AUTHOR BIO:
Jane Ainslie adores martinis, is a keen but hopeless gardener, and an avid reader of cookbooks. She currently resides in Adelaide, Australia, with her beloved husband and her four unruly pet ferrets.  Her blog can be found at www.janeainslie.com and she can be found on Facebook at Jane Ainslie Books.
  *     *     *     *     *     * 
 
Giveaway
 
Jane Ainslie is giving away…  1 ecopy of HER SISTER’S WEDDING

and

because this is a foodie romance, Bridging the Gap is giving away
a Recipe box w/cards (US only)     a Rafflecopter giveaway

Happy Release Day to HERO WORSHIP

Hero Worship
By Kimberly Quinton 
 
 
An Old Threat Returns….
After twenty years confinement on an island for crimes against humanity, the last thing disgraced H.E.R.O. Cole wants to hear is the world needs him. But the government’s sexy envoy peaks his interest and his honor.
Temptation….
Enhanced human and the government’s top negotiator, Caroline Sparks’ only mission is to bring in the last H.E.R.O. at any cost. When he asks for two months with her on his island when the mission is over, she can’t refuse even if it means exposing a secret he might kill her over.
Battle to save the world….
With disaster looming at every turn, Cole must choose between vengeance and duty. Can Caroline embrace her latent power and save her hero or will saving the world cost them both everything?

Hero Worship from Decadent Publishing
Exclusively first at All Romance ebooks ! http://www.allromanceebooks.com/storeSearch.html
  
Official Release Day~ February 21, 2014
Super Hero Romance
29k words, heat level: 3 flames
 
Buy Links:     Amazon      B&N  

*    *    *    *    *    *
 Enjoy the following excerpt for Hero Worship:
 
“Look, princess, I don’t have a knight-in-shining-armor side. You need to get around to my real side.”
Caroline’s teeth clicked together at princess; her tongue barely escaped the sharp edges before she forced another breath through her nose.
“And what side would that be? Your, I-want-my-own-island-and-the-rest-of- the-world-can-rot, side? Or how about your, I-need-a-new-woman-every-couple- weeks, side? Which one of those should I appeal to?”
Her voice sounded strange to her ears, thick with frustration and on the brink of screeching. I never raise my voice. Pursing her lips against the tremble, she gripped the edge of her seat, doing her best to ignore his wide smirk. She needed this conversation under her control.
He leaned back and tilted his head to look beneath the table, eyeing her legs. She stiffened but didn’t move further at his perusal of her from head to chest and back. A negotiator couldn’t be easily offended.
“Definitely my I-need-a-new-woman-every-couple-weeks, side. You could be that woman.”
“What?” Incredulity tightened her throat and her words sputtered out in a breathy puff. “Are you insane?”
“Depends on who you ask.” He winked; a suggestive tilt broadened his smile.
No way in hell. She squashed the butterflies that flapped in her belly, determined to ignore the temptation of his sun-kissed shoulders and golden abs, each muscle defined like a sculpted masterpiece. A perfect Hero. Physically. Too bad, of all the Heroes, only he remained.
Caroline cleared her throat. “I’m here to negotiate your chance at freedom, not feed your lascivious appetites.”
“Okay. Tell the AG the offer is rejected.”
“Millions of lives are at risk. We can’t combat a cyborg army under the control of a terrorist on our own.”
“Not my problem.”
“You used to be a hero. Now you’re heartless and cruel—pathetic.”
Caroline searched his face for a reaction, anything to tell her she’d gotten to him. He gave nothing but a shrug under a steady gaze. Her insults seemed to roll right off him.
“Your brethren would be ashamed.”
A flash of violence passed through his eyes as he thrust forward, shoulders raised, in a shift from nonchalant to coiled aggression, ready to strike at the next provocation. Here was the vengeance that cost a dozen citizens their lives and damages in the billions to government assets. She struggled not to react, but anger surged inside her, smothering her self-protective instincts.
 
*   *   *   *   *   *  

About the Author:
Whether she’s writing contemporary or paranormal romance, Kimberly Quinton is a romantic at heart who strives to tell stories about the power of true love.
 
Since a teen, she’s loved romances and believes we can all live our happily-ever-after. Always a people watcher, it wasn’t until Kimberly shucked her Accounting major for Anthropology that her interest in people and cultures was nurtured. Kimberly has combined her natural curiosity (nosiness) with her love of romance for the sake of bringing the movies in her head to life on the page.
 
A wife and mother of two, Kimberly spends her days chasing chores, wrangling active kids, and writing. She also enjoys traveling, cooking, great wine and sharing a laugh with friends and family.
 
You can usually find her on Facebook or Twitter. Stop by for a chat. 
Contact Details: 
Website: http://kimberlyquinton.com/about-kimberly/
Email: kim@kimberlyquinton.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KimberlyQuintonAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/kimquinton
 
            *   *   *   *   *   *     

Giveaway
 
Kimberly is giving away a $30 Amazon Gift Card
 to 1 lucky winner !!

 
Rafflecopter code:
 
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Author, author.... Sweeter Than This by Samara King

... read all about it !!

  Sweeter Than Thisby Samara King  Interracial Erotic Romance Suspense   Blurb:  With her best friend murdered, the man believed to be partly responsible under the nose of her gun and a stranger looming in the shadows out for blood, Officer Elle Taylor is running out of time and people to trust.  Will Elle risk crossing the line between attraction and revenge to take help from an unexpected source, before the murderer strikes again and leaves her life in flames?Durant Kane is no stranger to trouble, especially the kind that comes with a gun trained on his face and an angry woman attached.  But Elle's something different, something unexpected and sweeter.  He never could have imagined coming to feel so deeply about her, even f his own disastrous path in relationships hadn't left him so wary.  But he'll have to take the risk if he doesn't want to lose the woman he's come to realize he can't even think of living without.   Buy Links: Loose Id:  http://www.loose-id.com/sweeter-than-this.html Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Sweeter-than-This-Samara-Kig-ebook/dp/B0013RJQES/ ARe:  https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-sweeterthanthis-1406017-178.html  Excerpt: Everyone had a guilty pleasure.  Some gave in once and could walk away afterward.  Others became a slave to it.  Given the wicked spasms pulsating between Officer Elisha "Elle" Taylor's thighs, the deciding factor of which side she fell on was clear. Seeing Durant Kane again cracked open her wall of defense.  Elle gritted her teeth as she waited on her coffee.  Her usual early morning joint was filled with commuters and the normal hum of conversations and steady traffic.  Her eyes traveled slowly over the handsome man standing at the entrance of the diner.  His golden skin, brilliant blue eyes, and cropped blond hair gave him the air of a playboy.  sophistication and confidence outlined every move he made. The knowing gleam Elle knew all so well in his eyes matched his smooth-talking ways.  Although it hadn't taken much talking for her to end up in his bed.  The dark designer suit lined his tall, muscular frame with contemporary style, as did the black quarter-length coat he was shrugging out of.  She noted the same potency registered with several of the men Durant stood with as he gazed occasionally at traffic.  They seemed intent on his every word.  She was addicted to him in all the ways that shouldn't matter to a cop, but as a full-blooded woman--that was a different story. Look away! Elle turned her head just as Durant looked in her direction, a slow smile tugging at the corner of his lips.  She snapped her head around.  Where the hell is that coffee?  She needed to be on the road and not recounting the ways he'd made her come a year ago.  Knowing that he still had the ability to captivate her attention made her blood boil.  Lines had been crossed, dotted, and underlined in Durant's company. Guilty pleasures...Elle knew of them;  she was experiencing one right now.  The swipe of  his tongue across his  lips made her stomach clench.  She balled her fist and turned back around to face the counter.  Moments later, she felt the brush of his hand grave her lower back.  She didn't dare turn around, and with the steady stream of people roaming around in the diner, no one would notice that Durant was standing inappropriately close behind her.  The heat from his breath fanned the back of her neck. "Excuse me, Officer.  So rude of me to reach over you."  He leaned forward, grabbing a menu. "I should shoot you." She could hear the smile in Durant's whispering voice.  "A pleasure to see you as well, Elle." Her eyebrows rose, despite the sexual intensity spreading throughout her body.  "I doubt your associates would see it that way." Durant chuckled.  "That's why they're waiting in the car."  The sound of his laughter was rich and filling, just as he'd been when their bodies had intertwined together. Elle squeezed her thighs, standing stiffly.  "Perfect, a henchmen who does delivery." "I try to be as accommodating as possible to my employees and otherwise." Elle grunted.  "Is that what you're calling it these days?" "There are many names I have for what I want to do to you."  He leaned forward, the hard wall of his chest pressed against her back.  An innocent onlooker would only see a man perusing the menu and not the sensual heat ricocheting between them.      Authors Bio:  Samara King is the author of eighteen multi-genre works within romance fiction in novel and novella lengths as well as poetry. Writing romance has been a part of Samara's world since her days of sneaking to the back of the library in grade school with a love story in tow; soon after, she wrote her own. She was a Poet of the Year nominee in 2011 by African Americans on the Move Book Club and is a current member of The Romance Writers of America, several sister RWA chapters, and Sisters In Crime.  Samara has penned stories for Totally Bound, Cobblestone Press, Loose Id, sexy mobile reads for Ether Books, and also writes under her co-produced self-publishing entity, Crimson Whispers with author Shonell Bacon. Samara previously co-hosted SoundNoff, a poetic format for poets and spoken word artists and hosted InCharacterN10, a former showcase for authors on Blogtalkradio.com/samaraking.  Her newest endeavor is On The Hush, a monthly book column at MsNixInTheMix.com that focuses on relational issues.  Samara's first poetry collection, The Ebony Kryptonite, was well received and was followed with Stripped Barefoot, a sultry mix of poetry and spoken word, which went on to reach #20 in Chicago's Top 40 on Reverbnation in September 2013.  Her next poetic endeavor, The Naked The Bare is slotted for late 2014.  To find out more about Samara's poetry visit:  http://reverbnation.com/samaraking or listeners may also find her on Spotify. Currently, Samara is hard at work on her next romance series, as well as a new co-written mystery, Mama Has A Brand New Bag.    Author's Links: Website:  http://samaraking.comTwiter:  @samaraking Blog:  Characters Behaving Badly    

Blitz: Midnight Mistletoe by Laurel Cremant

MIDNIGHT MISTLETOE
LAUREL CREMANT


Blurb: WARNING:  This short novelette/short story of 8000 words is the first book in this serial and contains snarky dialogue, extremely inappropriate uses of mistletoe, alpha HEROINES and the weres smart enough to chase them. All were-hybrid, Georgia Walker wants for Christmas is to spend some time away from her pack and in particular, away from one increasingly dangerous enforcer turned Beta.  She has every intention of spending her days basking in the warm Caribbean sun and indulging in an island fling, or two.  Anything to forget the way a certain were made her pulse race and skin tingle.    Marcus Legrand has only one goal this holiday season, bring Georgia home and finally claim her for his own.  Convincing the strong willed ice princess will take all of his skill and patience, but Marcus is no stranger to hunting prey.  He has every intention of putting both his rank and heart on the line.   Buy Links 

All Romance |Amazon (US/UK/CA) | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Google Play 
 
Excerpt:
Taking a deep breath, she reached her arms overhead, arched her back and inhaled the balmy salted air.
She could almost hear her muscles sigh, but despite the relaxation attempting to spread through her limbs, her body tingled with a tension she knew settled too deep.
Her heat cycle was starting, and there was nothing she could do to relieve the discomfort.
Well almost nothing.
Dropping her hands back down to her sides, she swept her gaze across the small beach. It wasn’t crowded but had a fair number of sunbathers and Zen cravers. And most importantly it had men looking for the same thing she was—a little fun, forgetfulness and zero strings.
Although heat pooled to her center, her stomach rolled in apprehension.
In the past she’d had no problems with finding a willing male to sleep with when she was in heat. She enjoyed sex, and although each year her parents hoped she would chose a permanent mate, no man in or outside of her pack inspired much feeling or devotion. At least not enough for her to be shackled to for life.
But last year, because of The-Wolf-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named, no one appealed to her.
Instead of rolling around for several hours with a well-endowed chosen playmate, she’d remained locked in her home for days with her vibrator and a healthy supply of batteries.
She had no intentions of repeating the experience. This week, she planned on proving to both her body and wolf, that Marcus wasn’t the only man capable of making her hot.
Her gaze combed the area, looking for a good candidate.
One particular man caught her eye.
He’d been swimming for the last hour, his caramel arms cutting through the water in languid strokes. But now he rose out of the surf resembling a naughty sea nymph, his strong legs leading up to deep blue board shorts. Dry, she guessed the swimming trunks were perfectly modest—but wet they molded to his thick muscled thighs and cupped his cock in a way that left very little to the imagination. And since Georgia’s imagination was better than the average wolf’s she bit back a groan and clenched her thighs tight.
Yum.
Pushing her sunglasses up to her hair, she licked her lips as her gaze traced the diamond bright droplets of water running down his hard chest. They sluiced down his body, aided by the tight ridges of muscles along his abdomen, tunneling down to what looked like one hell of a stocking stuffer.
Merry Christmas to me.
Yes, an island getaway was proving to be the perfect holiday treat.
Her gaze meandered back up his chest and after making a brief note of thick smooth lips and tempting dimples, she made eye contact with her merman come to life.
His eyes gleamed with interest and her lips turned up in her best come-hither smile. He took a step forward and then froze, his gaze focusing on something just over her left shoulder. Shaking his head he turned and continued walking down the beach.
What the hell!
She frowned at his retreating back. Admittedly she was no super model but, she’d never had a problem with luring men her way.
A long shadow fell over her and it was her turn to freeze. Despite blocking out the sun, a heated scorch rippled down her body as the approaching shadow crept down her body. Her nipples pebbled to thick points, her pussy clenched and a slow growl worked its way up her throat.
Only one thing made her body react this way and she’d deliberately left it back in Golden Valley.
“Hello Gigi. Miss me?”
 
  
 
Authors Bio:
Laurel is a romance author, who like most writers loves to read. Her first love (pun intended) has always been romance. From the sappy YA romance novel to the more risqué erotica novels, Laurel is a sucker for a good love story.

Laurel writes paranormal and contemporary romance and is a self-proclaimed, out of the closet nerd. She admits that she can't seem to avoid adding a bit of "nerdology" or "geek-dom" to all of her books. Living in Miami, she also admits that she can't seem to avoid giving her heroines gorgeous shoes, "In Miami, we worship everything strappy, open toed and just plain hot!"
 
Sizzling Romance, Lasting Love
Website   Blog   Twitter Facebook Pinterest Goodreads     

Tasty Tuesday & a Teaser ~ Eva LaFoy

Every Tuesday we'll welcome an Author who will share a foodie type postwith a recipe or two and some book promo ! Today please help me welcome Eva LaFoy...  *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   Chickpea Tagine with Cinnamon, Cumin and Carrots
Link to original recipe is here: http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/chickpea-tagine-with-cinnamon-cumin-and-carrots/
 
This is MY adulterated version, with comments and changes.
 
Ingredients:
 
2 tbs olive oil
1 small onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced (1tbs)
2 14.5-oz cans of chickpeas, rinsed and drained – I always buy the lower salt and don’t worry about the ozs since mine never match either!
3 medium carrots, peels and sliced into thin rounds – add more if you like, and I cut mine smaller
¼ cup dried currants – I use raisins instead
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground cumin
¼ tsp cayenne pepper – FYI this is a lot! Use much less to taste, or skip it all together
2 tsp honey – I never have added, and have not missed it! Too many calories anyway IMO
½ cup plain Greek-style plain yoghurt
3 tbs finely chopped parsley
 
Directions:
 
1.       Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté 2 to 3 minutes, or until onion slices are soft.
a.       Note: the recipe doesn’t say to do this but – I add the spices here and let the oil absorb and heat them, releasing their flavors. Very aromatic as well! Only after that’s done would I add the rest.
2.       Add the chickpeas, carrots, raisins, honey and 2 cups water. Cover and simmer 20 to 25 mins, stirring occasionally.
a.       Note: If your carrots will take longer to cook, you might par-boil them or cook them separately and then add to the final mixture for the last few mins of cooking. Sometimes carrots can be tough little buggers to get done!
3.       Divide tagine among 4 bowls. Garnish each serving with dollop of yoghurt, and sprinkle with parsley.
 
 
 
This is a great recipe if you’ve been going more toward the veg side of eating. It’s also quite nice on a cold winter day, with just enough spice to tickle your tastebuds (without the cayenne mind you!) and also filling.
 
I know, I promised Krista a curry recipe, but the spices are almost the same. Really, it’s a Moroccan style curry is what it is.
 
In my book, Sex, Ties and Videotape, the two men go to The Coastal Kitchen in Seattle, WA to eat dinner. Paul orders the jambalaya, which as you might know is a Louisiana Creole dish which is their almost-version of a curry. IMO. But the spicing is a little different – they use paprika, thyme and cayenne rather than the more exotic spices of Morocco.
 
Of course, the two characters have already had sex the night before, but their lovemaking takes a new twist after a run-in with an ex-boyfriend at the restaurant. Here’s an excerpt from Sex, Ties and Videotape to chew on while you consider your dinner options:
 
 
Sex, Ties and Videotape is available from:
 
MLR Press http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=ELSXTVID
All Romance Ebooks https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-sextiesandvideotape-1419353-147.html
Amazon http://amzn.to/1fnEbz1
Amazon UK http://amzn.to/1fnEaen
 
Here's an excerpt:      They gulped their beers, got the food packaged to go, and stumbled out onto the dark street.  At the car, Paul pulled Geoffrey roughly against him.  Their shirts were damp.  He could feel the hard planes of Paul's chest against his.  "Fuck," Paul whispered and lowered his mouth.      Geoffrey's lips were captured but his hands were not.  He breathed into Paul's mouth and groped his body, his hands sliding easily over the silky fabric.  Paul's body was hard everywhere and Geoffrey's cock responded in kind.  There were some irresistible about Paul tonight.  The way he'd manned up to Brian fucking turned him on.  His ass relaxed; delight and anticipation shivering through it.  He tilted his head back and let Paul's tongue snake toward his throat.      A low rumble worked its way through Paul's chest to vibrate against hi lips.  Their torsos crashed against each other, their cocks rubbed.  With a long shuddering breath, Paul lifted his head and pressed a peck to Geoffrey's cheek.  "Get in the car before I come on the street."  
 Thanks for reading!
 
Eva
 
Bio:
Eva Lefoy writes and reads all kinds of romance, and is a certified Trekkie. She’s also terribly addicted to chocolate, tea, and hiking. One of these days, she’ll figure out the meaning of life, quit her job, and go travel the galaxy. Until then, she’s writing down all her dirty thoughts for the sake of future explorers.
 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Eva-Lefoy/344907072265234 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Eva_Lefoy 
Blog: http://writery.wordpress.com/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6656950.Eva_LeFoy
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Eva-Lefoy/e/B00CE0EY0G
 
 

Author, author....Lynked by Bethany-Kris

...read all about it !!  
 Character Interview with Devon Lynk of Lynked… Devon Lynk is already a distinguishable man in his own right. Having once been a professional, well-known mixed-martial arts fighter and the owner of a multi-million dollar fighting company, he has certainly had his successes. It was by some of those same successes where he found his weakness, as well as his downfall. Having not given an interview since far before his release from prison for illegal gambling, I was the first person he allowed to question him. Even more surprising than his agreement to the interview is his request that nothing about his arrest or the company he no longer owns be brought into the interview. Waving for me to sit across from him in the living room of his home located in Stoney Plains, Alberta, you almost don’t notice how imposing of a man Devon is. But, his history in MMA showcases him physically, lining him rock-solid from top to bottom. “Nic isn’t joining us?” I ask, sitting. Devon grins knowingly. “She’s not feeling particularly well this morning. Maybe she’ll be around later.” “Can you tell us a little bit about you, and your story?” “I grew up in Banff, Alberta as the only child of my mother and one of the many bastards of my oil baron father. I stumbled into martial arts pretty young, but the sport and I hit it off right away. After an unfortunate incident, I was left unable to fight, so my half-brother and I dreamed up Chaine Lynk. Our patrons happened to have a lot of money, and we liked to toss it around a little on the fights—I don’t want to get into that. Leaving it in the past, you know?” I shrug, but his arrest and the details around it are foggy in the media. “Okay, how about Nic? How did you meet her?” Devon shakes his head, pointing to a picture on his wall of a man in a suit hugging his wife. “Her brother was a fighter of mine. She came into the venue one night and she was the first thing I noticed in a room with two-hundred people. You can’t forget eyes that blue.” “You two hit it off?” “You could call it that,” he says, chuckling. “I took her home, lucky me. Her brother got mixed up in the raid that night, leaving her with nowhere to go. My mother would have been sorely disappointed in me had I not manned up and helped Nic. That doesn’t mean Nic didn’t make it hard on me when I tried, though.” “Your mother—Mia—she died not long before the accident that ended your fighting career, right?” “Yeah, I was twenty-three when she died.” “She was pretty pivotal in your life and choices. Why is that?” Devon clears his throat, shifting on the couch. “I suppose because she was the only parent I really had. Sure, she gave me other adults to see, to learn from, but she was my constant. She always supported me, no matter what I wanted to do. Worked her ass off for me. Mia made it her job to make me a good man. God knows Jeffery Wolfe wasn’t anything to aspire to.” At the mention of his father, Devon frowns. “How active is your biological father in your life? Or has he been, I should ask.” “None at all. Publically defamed me as his bastard, but I guess he acknowledged me in some way at least. That was more than he did for others. No more on him, please. Jeffery doesn’t deserve the attention he already has.” Feeling like our conversation has waded into uncomfortable waters for Devon, I decide to change directions. “How about a few fun facts about you?” “Sure,” he responds. “Cats or dogs?” “Really?” I nod. “Dogs, then. I really like the Rottweiler breed. I just need to convince Nic.” “What can’t you live without?” “MMA,” Devon states seriously. “It’s my life, my enjoyment, how I make my money, and what kept me sane for a lot of years. But, I’d have to toss Nic in there, too. She keeps me pretty grounded, now.” “Do you have an irrational dislike of something?” I ask. “Fruit.” The answer is so immediate and confusing that I wave for him to explain. “It’s disgusting. I eat it to please Nic, but ick. I can’t know it is fruit, you know? It’s squishy and horrible.” “That’s odd,” I point out. Devon shrugs. “You said irrational.” “True. Okay, what would you say your most distinguishable feature is?” “My hair. It’s crazy curly and I need to keep it cut at just the right length or it goes nuts and there’s no controlling it.” “What is your greatest fear?” Devon scowls. “Returning to prison, but that’ll never happen.” “What is your greatest accomplishment?” I ask. For a moment, Devon thinks about his answer. “You know, that’s a good question. I’ve done a lot of things in my life that are worthy of pride and acknowledgment. Gaining a light-heavyweight title at the young age of twenty-one. Getting my first major fighting sponsor even younger than that. Opening up a business, keeping it going, and making it hugely successful in more ways than one…there’s a lot.” “There are,” I agree. “But, anything specific that sticks out to you?” “Falling in love,” he murmurs. “Yeah, finding that feeling for the first time. At twenty-seven, you would have thought I already found that, but I was so damned busy being successful and working, running everyone else around me and keeping it going, that I forgot all about me. So, when Nic waltzed in, that was it for me. I fell so hard for that girl. I guess I waited so long that when it finally did happen, I wasn’t expecting it. It terrified me. I’m so happy it was her, though.” “Well,” I say with a smile. “I was going to ask who your favorite person was and why, but I think that’d be a little redundant. How about your favorite quality in Nic?” “Her craziness. Is that a quality? It’s gotta be, because my girl owns that like nothing else. Yeah, her craziness.” “Thank you for this interview, Devon.” He smiles, and shrugs once more. “Thank you for keeping the prison and business nonsense out of it all.” “Next time?” I dare to ask. “Maybe.”  *    *    *    *    *    *      Lynked  Bethany-Kris  Contemporary Erotic Romance   He’d give up everything to keep her, in fact he did. But will she still be waiting on the other side when it’s over?     Blurb: When a fighter’s path crosses with a beautiful woman, he’s positive the meeting will only end in her leaving his penthouse with sex hair and a smile—until life and the law steps in, inevitably linking their futures forever.   The accident that ended his fighting career wasn’t enough to keep former mixed martial arts champion Devon Lynk out of the sport. His new business, Chaine Lynk, an exclusive fighting company, has made him millions through illegal gambling. Happy with his life, he never suspected it could be his downfall … until the morning after leads to something so much more than he expected, and he’s left with the weight of guilt and responsibility on his shoulders.   Veronica “Nic” Stacey made her way to Edmonton with the intention of starting life anew, but her first night in the city lands her in a stranger’s bed and things don’t quite go as planned. Waking up to find out her brother is in jail is one thing, but learning the man she slept with is also his boss is another matter altogether. With no knowledge of the city and nowhere to go, she’s left taking the only help offered: Devon’s.   With Chaine Lynk’s doors closed and Devon facing possible jail time for his involvement, reality takes a front row seat. Love and lust intermingle as he comes to learn what his business and choices have cost the girl he wants most—now he just has to fix it. But is it already too late?   Buy Links:    Crimson Romance     Amazon      B&N     iTunes    Excerpt:   “What is your name, pretty girl?” * Something sinful crawled over every nerve Nic had in the best way at the voice in her ear. She couldn’t not respond to the hand suddenly holding tight to her waist. The heat of the man’s palm soaked straight through the fabric of her dress and seeped into her skin in the best way. She swore it travelled over her flesh with a tingling dance that had her burning hot instantly. Shooting him with a simpering grin, Nic turned her head just enough to check him out. Tall and well dressed with broad shoulders, a muscled frame, and hazel eyes that seemed to pierce right into her soul, Nic was stunned for a second. The dark color of his skin stood out against the cream color of her dress and his fingers tightened, making her breath catch. Handsome was an understatement. This man was downright gorgeous in a way that made her pulse pick up and her sex ache. There was a faint grin playing on his full lips and her gaze was drawn down to his hand still holding firm to her waist like it belonged there. No one had so blatantly approached her like he had throughout the night, not to mention physically touched her. Actually, this man was the first to ever do that at all and not get an instant rejection. Maybe it should have bothered Nic, but instead she found herself curious as to why he had approached her. After all, she hadn’t been actively trying to invite attention her way. “Your name?” he asked again. The roughness in his voice was almost mesmerizing. The flecks of green in his eyes seemed to dance under the lights, sparkling with suggestion and want. “Nic.” “What are your plans in the next five minutes?” Nic turned to look back at the fight. The man did the same, watching as Jordan locked down hard to his opponent, pinning him to the mat with a chokehold that looked like it must have hurt. She’d thought seeing Jordan fight would turn her inside out with worry, but instead, Nic only found herself proud. Maybe making the choice to come to Alberta had been the right one after all. Change was supposed to be a good thing, right? “That depends,” she finally answered. “On what?” Once more, she met his gaze, feeling his hand gripping tightly to her waist and wanting to become lost in just the sensation of that action alone. Nic could feel her body wanting to press harder into his grip. Never had her insides reacted so strongly to another person. He didn’t let up a bit. Haze yielded behind them, tapping out hard against the mat. People started to cheer as their hands hit the cage. Jordan’s name rang out in the crowd louder and louder. “On that.” Her brother won. The tuition was all but paid now. Do something different. Those words rung in her mind like a toll bell. What would it hurt to go home with this man?Nic wondered. Who would know what she had done? There wouldn’t be a soul to say anything bad. There would be no one judging her like they did back home. He clearly wasn’t a fighter if his clothing and attitude were any indication, so she was still following along with her brother’s only request. What could it really hurt? Nothing. She was grown. Jordan would be celebrating his win. A single phone call to let him know she was fine would be enough until the morning. “Come home with me,” he said, his eyes seeming to search hers for any sign of indecision. Nic laughed an airy sound. “I don’t even know you.” “I don’t bite.” “Maybe I’d like that, though.” “All right, I bite a little,” he teased. She could easily say no, but she didn’t want to. That should have scared her. Whatever influence this man seemed to have on her was one she hadn’t experienced before. Nic was the rational one; a person who didn’t make irresponsible choices that would shine her in a bad light. Straight and narrow; white as a dove. Whoever this man was, he made her want to jump headfirst into the filth of sin without even thinking of possible consequences. “Married?” he asked. “Nope.” “Escort?” The face she made must have given away how she felt about that comment. “Sorry,” he said. Again, his mouth came dangerously close to her face, lips ghosting over the shell of her ear. Heat saturated Nic all over again and she shivered. Who was this man? She didn’t even care that his name had yet to be uttered. She wet her tongue with her lips. “Come home with me,” he repeated, his voice turning down to a husky tone. Nic bit her lip, her eyebrow rising in contemplation. “You’ll get me home in the morning?” “In a private jet if you want, sweetheart; just say yes.” “Yes.” *   *  *   *   *   *   *  Authors Bio:
Bethany-Kris is a Canadian author, lover, and mother of two young sons, two cats, and two dogs. With a fulltime job, her children underfoot, animals at her side, and a spouse calling over his shoulder, she is nearly always writing something…when she can find the time.



Author's Website: www.bethanykris.blogspot.ca
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bethanykriswrites
Twitter: www.twitter.com/bethanykris       

Author, author...Aurelia Osborne and The Admirer

Blurb
This city will ruin you, just as it ruined your mother.Rose Fraser has been given the opportunity of a lifetime: the chance to go to London as a debutante for the London season, as Viscountess Latimer's personal protégé. She is nervous yet excited at the idea. However, her excitement soon fades away when she starts receiving threats in the form of intricately folded, anonymous notes. Nerves turn to fear as the notes escalate. Feeling trapped, unable go to the police, she turns to the only person she thinks can help her: her most serious suitor, private investigator James Grey. But will he uncover the truth before things take a turn for the worse?


Excerpt

And so the days passed. Rose did not speak to Mr. Grey, though they did see each other when she accompanied her aunt to the opera on Thursday. Those few moments of eye contact had been worth the snide comments that her aunt had taken to make whenever Mr. Grey was seen, or mentioned in conversation.     No new note arrived on Friday, which should have been a greater relief than it was. Rose had come to believe that her tormentor could read her mind, and that he would have had a few choice words about her feelings for Mr. Grey. She could not quite convince herself otherwise, despite the lack of note as evidence.     On Saturday morning, at breakfast time, the plans for what had become the usual walk in the park were dashed by an apologetic Robinson.     "Oh, for Heaven's sake!" exclaimed Aunt Edwards after Robinson gave her an extensive list of household affairs that required her attention. "Can you not take care of this yourself?"     "I've managed what I can, madam, but I'm afraid these matters do require your attention."     "This will take me all morning. But if there's no choice... Rose, you will find some other way to busy yourself this morning. Try not to get in anyone's way."     "I could take you to the park, if you still wish to go."     Everyone turned to look at Uncle Edwards, who simply finished his breakfast, apparently unaware of the shock his words have caused.     "You? Walk in the park?" Aunt Edwards laughed at the idea.     "Of course I would not walk," replied Uncle Edwards, offended by the suggestion. "We would take the horse and carriage, go for a ride."     "Oh, you are being ridiculous, my dear. You have not handled a carriage since we left for the city."     "Exactly, and high time I got back to it. And it seems to me that, as you'll undoubtedly be busy this morning, the decision belongs to Rose."     When both her aunt and uncle turned to her, Rose was reminded of the dinner conversation that preceded their departure for London, these many nights ago. This time, however, the decision came much more swiftly. She had missed her uncle; his company, which had always been easier for her to bear, had been scarce since their arrival in town. Her aunt would be very busy this morning. Besides all that, it was a beautiful day, and it would be a shame to spend it cooped up inside.     "I think a carriage ride in the park is a wonderful idea. I would love to."     "Excellent! Then the matter is resolved. We leave in half an hour."
     As her aunt had no real objections to the scheme, thus ended the discussion.
***"Now that we are alone," said Uncle Edwards as the horse and carriage made its way down the street and to the park, "how are you, Rose?"     "I am well, uncle."     "I assume that by 'well', you mean your aunt hasn't run you completely ragged yet." Her uncle sighed. "Rose, I wish you would stand up for yourself. The world will not end if you say no to her."     "She would be upset with me, uncle. You know how I dislike conflict of any kind."     "Conflict is a part of life, my dear. You will never be able to please everyone you meet at all times. Tell me, honestly, do you enjoy life in the city so far? Shopping and walks in the park and dance lessons, every morning? Calling on a different person for tea every afternoon, followed by dinners and evenings at the theater and balls, every night?"     "It is somewhat tiring, I must admit."     "We both know where this is leading, if your aunt has any say over this: you married to the richest man you can sink your teeth into, so you can keep on this crazy merry-go-round social scene. Is this what you want?"     "No," said Rose hesitantly.     "But..."     "I do not wish for the richest man, but for a good man. One who would care for me. One who, perhaps, would be agreeable to partake in a much less active role in society."     Her uncle remained silent as they entered the park, and for a moment longer still. "Would I be wrong in guessing that you already met such a man?" he finally said.     Rose quietly shook her head. "At least I hope I have."     "That boy who paid a call on you last week. What was his name, Grey?"     Rose nodded. Her uncle nodded as well, seemingly lost in thought.     Rose could not explain what happened next. It felt like something out of a nightmare. The horse inexplicably took off at neck-breaking speed. Her uncle cried out various interjections to the beast, to no avail. The reins, much too slack to begin with, kept slipping through his hands. The shouts of indignation of the passersby turned to cries of fear and pain, as not everyone could get out of the way in time.     Every time the carriage hit something, whether it was a person or a mere bump on the road, Rose was terribly jostled. After a particularly bad hit, she found herself thrown halfway out of the carriage. She watched helplessly as her hat fell to the ground, to be crushed under the carriage wheel. She feared her head would be next.     It was at that moment that Uncle Edwards took back the reins and violently pulled the carriage to a stop. It was too much for Rose's precarious position, and she fell.     Thankfully, she was saved from a painful landing by a pair of strong hands, who gripped her arm and awkwardly pulled her back in the carriage.     "Are you hurt?"     There was something familiar about the voice, though she was certain she never heard it before. She looked up at her savior: the man was indeed a complete stranger.     "Miss?" the stranger asked again as he tried to catch his breath. Rose realized that she has not answered his question. She shook her head: she was scared but unharmed.     "I believe that was enough excitement for today," said Uncle Edwards. "Let's go home."     "Would you allow me to accompany you? It appears that your horse is easily startled; you may find yourself in need of assistance again."     "We are much obliged to you, sir, but that won't be necessary. We reside nearby, and I'll be keeping a better grip on the reins from now on."
Author Bio


Aurelia Osborne is the pen name of a Canadian author, born and raised in the National Capital region. She studied literature, art history, translation, and creative writing. She hates talking about herself, especially in the third person. The Admirer is her first novel.