Jessica E. Subject's Blog, page 177

Character Interview with Punda, a lion shifter, from An Apple Away by Kate Richards

Shameless Summer Giveaway Hop post here.

Jessica: Welcome, Punda to my blog. It is a pleasure to have you here.

[image error]Punda: Hi, Jessica! Thanks for inviting me.

Jessica: Now, as a lion shifter, how similar are you to the lions of Africa? What qualities do you share? How are you different?

[image error]Punda:  We are originally from India, although my pride has been in North America for generations. There are a lot more African lion shifters than Asian, and I haven’t been able to find any left in India at all. There just aren’t a lot of places there where we could run free and hunt when the moon calls, whereas Africa still has a lot of open land for that.

Jessica: And you’re the last of your kind. What happened to the rest of your pride?

Punda: I don’t know, they disappeared one day.

Jessica: That’s puzzling. Do you think you’ll ever see any of them again?

Punda: At first I hoped so, but as time goes on I’ve begun to doubt. How can an entire pride, basically a town, of people disappear without a trace?

Jessica: Well, I hope one day your are able to find more of your pride. Can you tell us about Wiccan Haus where you’ve been living?

Punda: It’s an amazing place. A healing resort off the coast of Maine, and completely magical. You cannot get there except on the weekly ferry and the Rowans who run it each have a different talent.

Jessica: As a masseuse there, what kind of creatures do you interact with?

Punda: Well, other shifters, mermaids, ordinary people, witches, gnomes…almost anyone! The vampires are interesting. They have an alarming tendency to bite some of the other guests, but the Rowans feel that with enough time they can help them get past this.

Jessica: I hope so. Can you tell us about the first time you met Hugo?

Punda: I met him when he came to the island to get away from his very stressful job on a short vacation. It was his first break in years and he was exhausted—he’s a very important brain surgeon at a hospital in Argentina, you know. A charity hospital, so you can imagine how hard he works.

Jessica: What drew you to him?

Punda: Well, besides animal magnetism? He’s a good man, cares about people. And he will use his gifts to take care of anyone who needs him. Kindness, brains, talent and good looks….

Jessica: *swoon* And Aislinn, how did you meet her?

Punda: Sage assigned me to be her masseuse and companion while she stayed on the island.

Jessica: What do you like best about her?

Punda: Sometimes, Aislinn is a little naïve, but she has a warmth that draws everyone to her. But she’s so sick…I’m not sure even the Rowans have the cure for Aislinn.

Jessica: Oh no! Is either jealous of your relationship with the other, or do you all get along well?

Punda: I’ll have to let you know! I don’t think jealousy is a factor, but I’ve never fallen for two other people before. I’ve been alone a long time…

Jessica: And what are your future plans?

Punda: Right now, I’m taking it a day at a time. The most important thing is to find out what is eating Aislinn and how to break the news to Hugo that I’m a shifter!

Jessica: Well, I hope all goes well on both accounts. Thank you again for visiting today. I wish you all the best.

Punda: Same to you, it’s been fun!

An Apple Away:

Genres: Menage/Group, Multicultural, Multiple Partners, Shapeshifters, Witchcraft, M/F/F

Blurb: Aislinn never wants to see another doctor. Their painful and pointless treatments have done nothing to improve her rapidly deteriorating health. She hopes that the staff of Wiccan Haus can at least offer a change of scene, if not a return of a little of her former strength. She’s delighted to meet Punda, a masseuse, on her arrival and charmed by the cottage in the apple orchard where she will stay.

Dr. Hugo Peralta visits the island at the insistence of his boss. The distinguished brain surgeon is in desperate need of a respite before overwork makes him one of his own patients. He is surprised but pleased with the privacy and serenity of his cottage–across the orchard from Aislinn’s. An idyllic location on a magical island where love can blossom–if the Rowans can help the trio save Aislinn from whatever is killing her.

An Apple Away excerpt:

Most of Hugo’s attention remained on Aislinn. Her expressions flitted across her face, happiness, concern when Harvey talked about how he’d nearly lost his love to the evil—Jenny laughed at that, holding her husband’s hand tight—Sam and his “underhanded tactics.” Before he knew it, dinner, whatever it had been, had come and gone and their waiter was placing dessert before them.

“Warm apple crisp, with vanilla whipped cream.” The waiter stepped back. “From our own orchard.” Hugo frowned, but lifted his spoon. Why was the man hovering?

Aislinn, however, dug right in. “Oh, it’s just delicious! You know, my cottage is right in the middle of the orchard. It’s like a fairy tale…I didn’t know apple trees bloomed and fruited at the same time.”

So, this beautiful and intriguing woman was his neighbor—his sole neighbor—in his hilltop retreat. Interesting.

The waiter was going on about the apples. “Oh, a very special variety, miss. Grows only here on the island.”

“Well, it’s lovely.” She spooned up more of the crisp then sighed and set the implement next to her bowl. “But I don’t think I can eat another bite.”

Hugo ate some of the dessert. Good, but he rarely indulged. His focus was still on Aislinn and his medical side became alarmed as she suddenly paled. “Are you all right?”

She drew a deep breath and stood up from the table. “Oh, I’m fine. A little tired, maybe.” Her thready voice worried him.

“Perhaps we should see if a doctor or nurse….”

“No doctors. Never again.” Her vehemence added strength to her tone and sent an unhappy flip to his stomach. “I-I think I’ll be heading back to my cottage now. It’s been a pleasure having dinner with all of you. I’ll see you tomorrow, I’m sure.”

She took a few steps away and he rose, intending to join her, but a dark, graceful woman arrived at her side and led her over to a table where four people sat. They nodded in welcome and chatted for a few moments before one of them reached into a pocket and pulled out a vial. She tapped it, speaking with a serious expression before handing it to Aislinn. Rising, she gave her a quick hug then returned to her seat.

Aislinn left the room with the dark-haired woman’s arm around her waist. She must be very ill. But what had doctors done to make her reject their care and turn to quackery?

And what the hell was in that vial?

 Author Bio:

Kate Richards is a big fan of the happily ever after for everyone. She divides her time between Southern California and the High Sierras and writes wherever she is. If she had to decide between reading or writing a romance, she’d go for writing, because it takes longer to get to the end, and she can spend more time with the characters! She always loves to hear from readers.

Contact info:

http://katerichards.wordpress.com

katerichards09@gmail.com

Six Sentence Sunday: Two alien hunks in SATIN SHEETS IN SPACE #sixsunday

Shameless Summer Giveaway Hop post here.

Thank you for coming to ready my Six Sentence Sunday post!

Here’s another six from Satin Sheets in Space (blurb & buy links).

Galan is trying to convince Danyka that he means her no harm,

and that he wants to spend  more time with her.

“Let’s spend the night together, and you can make a decision in the morning.”

Before she had a chance to respond, the wall—more like a curtain—parted as another male, wearing a thin white pair of lounge pants, sauntered toward her.

With the same dark mane, blue-tinged skin, and wide build, he could be a copy of the extraterrestrial that lay on the bed with her. Two alien hunks?

Part of her wanted to scream, run, get away from these men—aliens—before they tried to hurt her, or worse. But the idea of the exotic creatures excited her beyond belief.

Visit http://www.sixsunday.com/ to find out who’s participating in Six Sentence Sunday this week or follow the #sixsunday hashtag on twitter.

I won’t be posting next week as it’s Father’s Day, and I have a bunch of family coming over. Plus, it’s my daughter’s first dance recital.

Shameless Summer Giveaway Hop!

Hello, and welcome to my post for the Shameless Summer Giveaway Hop! For those who don’t know, I write mainly science fiction romance, though I do have a contemporary romance story out, and a paranormal erotica story releasing soon.

First of all, I must say a huge thank you to Jen at Red Hot Books, Brie at Romance Around the Corner & Michelle at Michelle’s Book Blog for organizing and hosting this hop. And thanks to you for coming to visit me!

For the hop, I thought I’d share a scene from The Zurian Child where the characters are at the beach. They are Hemera, an alien race that can breathe underwater, but also live on land. They all live on Earth now, and Quinn and Lindsay have only recently learned of their extraterrestrial ancestry. Lindsay is married to Quinn and they have a child together, but her and Bryce are soul mates.

Bryce trudged down to the water following Quinn and his family, with plans for a nap in the afternoon. He dove under the water followed by Quinn to show to Lindsay they could breathe under the water, and assure her Katrina would not drown.

Quinn walked onto the shore and plucked Katrina from her arms. “It’s your turn, Linds. Burly will help you.”

Sauntering toward the water, she kept spinning back toward Quinn. Bryce wanted to escort her farther in, but in his current condition he needed to remain at least waistdeep in the water.

Last year, she had a cast on her leg and could not swim, so he’d never seen her in a bikini before.

The rising sun seemed to form a halo around her body, making her even more appealing. She’d definitely made full use of Quinn’s gym since Katrina’s birth.

On her first plunge, she swallowed water and coughed it back up. Bryce rushed to her. “You’re okay,” he said, reluctant to touch her. He had to maintain her trust. ”Just take deep breaths and try again.”

On the shore, Quinn smiled. “It is possible, Linds. I know you can do it.”

“I don’t know,” she said.

He reached out for her. When close enough, he brushed his fingers across the gills on her neck. “I can feel them there.” He ran his fingers across them once more.

Desire finally beat down all control and a vision passed between them.

He held her close under the moonlight. In the knee deep water, they kissed, his lips warm against hers. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed her body harder against his erection.

She pulled away.

“Shit,” he muttered. He’d worked so hard to gain her trust. And in one moment, he’d ruined everything.

She turned to him and he saw the guilt in her eyes.

She stepped away and immersed herself under the water once more. He followed close to assure himself she adjusted without any problems as she swam away from him, turned and swam back past him. Shit, she’s so mad.

[image error]The Zurian Child:

Lindsay Beckett longed to be reunited with her first love, Quinn Montgomery, until she learns the secret that sent him fleeing from her in the first place. He’s an alien, a Hemera, and she’s half-Hemera herself. As if that wasn’t enough to ruin her dreams of a perfect life, when their child is born, they discover she fulfills a prophesy told twenty light years away and many years ago. Lindsay wants to ignore it, until her husband is murdered and suddenly believing becomes a matter of survival.

Lindsay and her young daughter are forced to rely on another Hemera, her husband’s partner and best friend, Bryce Beuermann as more and more of the Hemera are slaughtered. Bryce will do anything to help his best friend’s widow—including suppressing his own deep feelings for her. But he must prove they can trust him, even pretending he doesn’t want her with all his heart.

Buy Links, Excerpt & more

For your chance to WIN an ebook copy of The Zurian Child, or one of my other releases, please fill out the Rafflecopter entry form.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Interview with author Natalie G. Owens

It is a great pleasure to welcome Natalie G. Owens to the blog, whom I met through Six Sentence Sunday, and our common critique partner, Zee Monodee.

So, Natalie, can you tell us about your new release.

NGO: My latest release is a short story, called Something to Live For – the first book in my Moonlight Dating Series. It’s a story about two people who find uncommon ground in the most unlikely of situations. It’s also explores the element of healing and overcoming trauma through physical intimacy. It’s short, emotional, sweet and hot, and ultimately, it’s a ‘feel good’ type of story .

Here’s the blurb:

Fifteen years ago, one fateful day bound the lives of two perfect strangers…

Melita Saari-Quinn is living the consequences of a traumatizing psychic event that turned her adolescence upside down. Now, disillusioned with her job as a psychotherapist and desiring a change from her lackluster existence, she hopes that something out of her  ordinary sphere of existence – something totally uninhibited and spontaneous – will renew her zest for life.

Alex Moncado seems to have it all – good looks, a successful business, and a fun life in “party central” of the Mediterranean: the island of Malta. Except for one day in the year when he can’t help but remember a tragedy that never should have been. One day he’d rather forget, because if he doesn’t, the guilt will consume him.

Can one passionate night together banish the ghosts of the past and give two lost souls a second chance? 

Only Fate can tell…

You can read an excerpt here: http://www.nataliegowens.com/p/something-to-live-for.html

Love it! Describe the heroine in three words.

NGO: Adventurous, feminine, courageous

And what traits does the hero posses that makes the heroine swoon?

NGO: He’s dark and brooding, physically strong, sensitive, and has the most beautiful deep, brown eyes

What was your inspiration for this story?

NGO: I read an article about sex and intimacy being a healing force. In the story, both characters have been wounded by life and unexplainable circumstances. Their physical closeness helps bring out long buried secrets and gives hope for a fresh start.

Who is your favorite character from this book?

NGO: I really can’t decide! Do I have to? There’s a part I really like though… it makes my pulse beat faster every time

The bedroom was rather small, too. It was decorated in neutral, shabby chic white furniture, which made the large brass bed with the fancy burgundy and white counterpane stick out like the fabled Gulliver in Lilliput.

Melita placed her tray on a nightstand and was suddenly reluctant to look across the bed, where Alex switched on the lamp. A spate of shyness caught her in a firm grip and she found herself defensively crossing her arms and shuttering her gaze.

But Alex stood close to her now. He uncrossed her arms and clasped her chin between his thumb and forefinger. Gently, he made her look straight up at him. He held her, strong and secure. Left her no quarter, no chance to look away.

“Don’t be ashamed to look at me. I want to be able to see your face, to see how my touch makes you feel inside,” he said, a statement that would have had her on the floor, at his feet, were he not holding her up with a powerful arm and his amazing dark gaze.

She squinted a little. “Are your eyes a dark brown?” He was a good half head taller than her. She wasn’t short herself, but she had to stand on tip-toes to get a closer glimpse.

“Hazel,” he responded, “but there are moments when they turn several shades darker, even black. Depends on my mood.”

She smiled and placed a palm against his cheek and jaw. How she loved the masculine feel of day-old stubble that prickled her skin…

“And what mood are you in now?” she teased. Her voice sounded distant to her, almost as though someone else was saying the words, or she was hearing them through a speaker with the volume down low.

“I’m in the mood to love you,” he murmured.

His words, on the other hand, rang in her head like the resounding peal of a giant church bell.

In the mood to love you.

“Yes,” she managed, only that. Her eyes burned and filled with moisture. It was difficult to swallow past the emotion that gathered in her throat.

Yes, even if it’s only for tonight.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Such a sweet excerpt. Now, about you. How long have you been writing with the hopes of publication? How did you get started?

NGO: In 2006, I was laid off from my full-time job and my husband encouraged me – pushed me – to pursue something I always wanted to do. I started to offer freelance editing services as my writing experience goes back a long way. Originally, I wrote poetry which was published in print about a couple of decades ago (does that give away how old I am? Lol). In 2007, I contracted two short stories with an e-publisher, and spent a few years learning the craft of writing. I now have two short stories published, a finished novel to be released as the first in a series, and other projects in the works.

What genres do you write in, and what appeals to you about those genres?

NGO: Romance – contemporary, paranormal/fantasy, suspense and historical. I also dabble in literary horror. I know these are many genres but it’s all about the story to me. My tag line is all about getting out of the box and exploring the wonderful world of writing.

What other titles do you have published? 

NGO: A Kind of Judgment, a literary horror short story about a woman who finds herself half way across the world after a lifetime of abuse. As she reflects on her life and grapples with who she is, more darkness waits for her in the wings…

What are you working on now?

NGO: Final edits and a few rewrites on my novel, An Eternity of Roses, Book 1 in the Valthrean Legacy and a romantic suspense novel titled, After Carmen – on Chapter 2 of that one . I’m also planning a series for next year with my writing pal, Zee Monodee, that I can’t wait to start!

Can you describe your daily writing routine?

NGO: I wake up as early as possible, answer emails, post on Facebook, then stop my surfing and write or edit – do whatever I need to do. Get as much done before the creature awakes (a.k.a., my 3-year-old, lol). Then, it’s all a toss-up from there on.  I go between taking care of my son, cooking, doing errands, to writing or editing. In the evening, I try to do a bit more work after he goes to sleep, but I get more done in the morning .

Sounds like my day. LOL Are you a plotter or a pantser?

NGO: I’ve learned my lesson! Definitely a plotter now.

What genres do you enjoy reading?

NGO: Quite a few, including non-fiction, but mostly romance and mystery novels.

What author(s) have influenced your writing style?

NGO: I love the gothic vibe of the 19th century authors (e.g., Charlotte Brontë), and the literary, fluid style of authors such as Elizabeth Kostova and Anne Rice.

Where do your best ideas come from?

NGO: From life, most definitely! Sometimes, truth is stranger than fiction .

So true! What is your favorite book that you’ve read?

NGO: There are so many! Another tough question, lol. I think, however, that On Writing by Stephen King deserves a place of honor on my Kindle shelves.

Who is your favorite character from any of the books you’ve read?

The enigmatic Derek Craven, a creation of historical romance author, Lisa Kleypas. Can you say swoon? I saw once that there’s even an online fan club dedicated to him.

What writing/writer’s organizations are you involved with? Can you explain how they help your writing and/or your writing career?

NGO: I’m a member of RWA and made quite a few friends from there. However, I get most support from various FB groups and Facebook itself, where my author friends post interesting articles about the world of writing and publishing. I also like to ask my friends – veterans in publishing – if I ever need some insight. They’ve never disappointed me, and I’m proud of the writing community I’m a part of. Most importantly, my critique partners and beta readers are my anchors. Without them, it would be so much harder. I just don’t have time to surf and read about the business that much, but I know support is there if I want it – and I also make sure to pay it forward any time I can.

Do you belong to a critique group or have critique partners? If so, what have you learned from them? How has it affected your writing?

NGO: Zee Monodee is my main critique partner, friend, and soul sister. Zee has thought me how to be a better writer. She looks at my work and pushes me harder, cracks that whip – lol – until I get it all out of me. Until I write the best possible scene, the best possible book. That’s what I like. I want to be challenged, not simply praised and told how great my work is. In the end, the story will shine because I drove myself to burn the right words onto the page – to make my voice stand out. That’s what Zee did – she bought out my voice, and told me to use it with pride. She told me to hold on to it, even if it may not be “the trend”. She told me that someone, someday, will notice – and she’s not happy until I show her a scene or chapter that reflects my true voice, to the last word. If not, she’ll call me on it. “Let loose, don’t hold back. Go all the way!” she’ll say. I’ll never forget that. It’s been liberating. Then there are other amazing people who support and encourage me, such as the awesome Rae Lori and Carole Gill, who are so talented, too!

I never mentioned this before but another person who gives me great support is USA Today bestselling author, Renee Bernard. She’s just an amazing human being all around – so wonderful, bubbly and warm, an author who gives her time to offer me advice and love. She encourages me to never give up. Renee rocks!

What is the best piece of advice you would give to aspiring authors?

NGO: Write the best story you can write. Respect your readers, and your community. Forget about marketability and promo, forget sales, forget publishers, forget everything – just write the damn story.

Is there anything else my readers should know about you?

NGO: I love to cook, not only for myself and my family, but also for others. There’s something about making people happy with food. It makes me warm and fuzzy inside! So far, I think, I haven’t killed anyone – phew! Lol.

Where can my readers find you?

NGO: Here goes:

Website / Facebook profile page / Facebook author page / Twitter / Goodreads / Google+

Where can my readers find your books?

NGO: Soon, my books will be available on other sites but for now…

Something to Live for:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B007RWCK0W (US)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B007RWCK0W (UK)

A Kind of Judgment:

http://www.amazon.com/A-Kind-of-Judgment-ebook/dp/B007N33PL8 (US)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/A-Kind-of-Judgment-ebook/dp/B007N33PL8 (UK)

Thank you so much for being here, Natalie! 

My True Guilty Pleasure – Guest Post by W. Lynn Chantale

Thank you, Jessica for hosting me today.

I will admit I have a love affair with food. But not just any food, baked goods. Those sweet, gooey confections that make one want to horde the dish and never ever share.

One of my favorites is Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake. Pure decadence. The rich, creamy chocolate melts on the tongue and gives the taster a joy-gasm in the mouth. Yeah, I said it. What? You didn’t know food could be erotic?

How about a nice slice of homemade bread. Fresh from the oven, dripping with butter and honey. Delicious. Better yet…warm spple dumplings or apple crisp with french vanilla ice cream. Peach cobbler?

Maybe your tastes are a little more refined and a sexy tiramisu or creme brulee is the order of the day. Or perhaps pie is more to your liking? But my true guilty pleasure is  chocolate chip cookies and here’s the recipe I use.

1 c. unsalted butter

3/4 c. brown sugar

3/4 c. white sugar

2 eggs

2 and 1/4 c. flour

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp baking soda

12 oz. chocolate chips

nuts are optional

Cream butter and sugars until light. Add eggs and mix until fluffy about 5 minutes. Add flour, salt and soda just until mixed. Stir in chocolate chips. Drop by rounded teaspoons on cookie sheet. Bake in preheated 375 degree oven 9-11 minutes depending on size of cookies.

Have fun and let the love affair begin.

When I’m not baking cookies, I can be found here:

Website / Blog / Twitter / Facebook

Until next time, Indulge Your Inner Romantic

Decadent Seconds by W. Lynn Chantale:

As a caterer, Darling gets to witness some of life’s happiest moments, but yearns for a marriage proposal of her own. After years of waiting on her beloved to pop the question, she gives up ever having a happy ending of her own and severs the relationship. When she learns she’s pregnant, she has no choice but to face her child’s father on a daily basis as well as the love and attraction she has for him.

Darryl Manning always believed Darling would be his forever. After all he didn’t need a piece of paper to show her how much he loved her, but when she leaves him to pursue her dream of owning a catering company and raising his son, he may have to rethink his views marriage. That is if he wants a second chance at family.

Buy Links: Whispers / Amazon

Decadent Seconds Excerpt:

Drunken laughter floated just above the thrumming bass line of Lenny Kravitz’s Are You Gonna Go My Way, competing with the steady buzz of conversation. Soft pastel strobe lights flickered through the muted illumination. Darlene Williams, or “Darling” as she was known to friends and associates, surveyed the banquet hall full of guests.

She heaved a sigh as she glimpsed a swirl of ivory on the dance floor. For one wistful moment, where fairytales glowed bright and rosy, she imagined her own wedding. Her fairytale didn’t have a happy ending. She sighed again. Or a beginning.

A familiar face bobbed in the crowd, and her breath hitched. Twice he tried to take her picture, and she was determined he wouldn’t succeed. His gaze found hers, and her heartbeat matched the pounding bass line. He turned away, and she focused on a set of broad, muscular shoulders. She could spend hours smoothing her hands over his brawn. When he found her again, the corners of his mouth creased, and a familiar tingle crackled through her veins.

Just once she’d like to not react when she saw him. Despite the warmth knocking at the wall of her heart, Darling followed his movements to a group of similarly clad women. When they clustered around him, he raised his Nikon to his rugged face.

She loved his face, all angles and planes, and all that sharpness melted away when he smiled. Sadness and longing wiggled through a crack in her wall and squeezed her heart. They weren’t meant to be. Still she stared after him, envying the way he leaned close to one woman and lowered his camera. He gave a nod before moving away. When he passed beneath a wall sconce, the warm glow gave his smooth brown skin the fine sheen of melted chocolate. He should’ve been out of place in his black polo shirt and khaki slacks as he moved among the tuxedoes and long dresses, but his sexy smirk and camera made things easy.

The discordant clash of a body colliding with cymbals and snare drum drew Darling’s attention toward the dais next to the dance floor. A glassy-eyed young man in a tux tried to untangle his limbs from the instrument without spilling his drink. Succeeding, he then lurched onto the crowded dance floor and crashed into a couple of dancers. She shook her head when he sprawled on the floor, still trying to drink from the glass in his hand.

Not her problem. Darling regarded the decimated buffet, the food reduced to crumbs and half-dried globs of gravy—this was her problem. Swiping sweat from her forehead with the back of her hand, she lifted her gaze again, this time scanning the room for the tall, sexy photographer. He was now taking pictures of the drunk on the floor. Good, she didn’t want to run into him or his camera again. Turning, she hefted the silver chafer by the handles and placed it on the rolling cart behind her.

She reached for the next chafer, moving the serving spoon aside when strong hands seized her shoulders. The spoon slipped from her grasp, splattering white sauce on her black slacks, before settling on the floor. A sensuous chuckle tickled her ear, sending warmth scurrying through her veins, and puckering her nipples. Yanking free, she spun around to glare into dark chocolate eyes. She shoved the owner of those eyes and straightened her clothes. He laughed softly, his gaze drifting leisurely over her white chef’s coat and work pants.

Darryl Manning, the sexy photographer, grabbed her hand and gently tapped the thick bandage wrapped around her index finger. “What did you do to your finger?” She tugged her hand from his grasp, wincing when she smacked the digit on the chafer. “I cut it.” She bent to retrieve the spoon from the floor, straightened, and placed the utensil in a gray plastic tub.

Darling wiped her hands on a towel. Darryl folded well-toned arms across his broad chest, the black knit shirt he wore strained to accommodate the expansion of muscle. She stifled a groan and the urge to run her fingers along the bulging biceps and perfect pecs. Why did her body pick today to rebel? “I don’t have time for this now,” she snapped, “What do you have time for?” His rich baritone conjured nights of hot, steamy sex and decadent morning afters. He lifted his camera, with a sexy smirk. “Maybe a photo or two?”

She resisted the seductive note in his voice and placed her hand on the lens. “I’m working.”

“And I’m not, just finished.” He stepped closer, the heat of his body instantly warming hers. Darling tilted her head back to maintain eye contact.

She studied his face, waiting for the familiar ache and longing to subside. It didn’t. Being this close to him, surrounded by his scent, a little soap and a whole lot of male, made her yearn to be in his arms, to feel his full lips against hers. What was she doing? She couldn’t think about him, about them. She moved away. Not today.

Darling turned as the click-click-click of his camera captured her. Huffing, she stalked toward the kitchen. She caught the attention of Pete, one of her chefs for the evening. “Could you finish breaking down the buffet table while I take care of this?” She jerked a thumb to the hunk at her heels. Light flashed in her face, momentarily blinding her, and she held a hand to her eyes, blinking to clear her vision. “Don’t do that!”

Moving through the kitchen to a narrow staircase, she heaved a sigh as the pulsing rock music faded to a dull roar. Darling entered her office and smiled at the young man seated in a chair. “Thanks, Denny,” she said. He was another employee, and she waited until he closed the door.

Darling knelt next to a car seat and dropped a kiss on the sleeping infant’s cheek. White light zigzagged before her eyes. “Stop it!” she said.

“But you’re so beautiful,” Darryl said.

Her stomach did a slow somersault at the compliment, but he would need more than pretty words and his handsome face to woo her. Straightening, she shoved a diaper bag in his general direction. “I have two more weddings, a funeral, and an awards banquet. You trying to flirt is not on today’s calendar!”

Darryl offered her a smile and her knees turned to jelly. The man would be the death of her. The only reason she still spoke to him was the sleeping toddler. If not for the baby, she’d have kept walking and never looked back.

She brushed a stray curl from her face and planted her hand on her hip when Darryl didn’t move. “I know you may not have anything to do, but I really need to get back downstairs,” she reminded him.

He stepped closer, reaching a hand to tug on the lock of hair she had just swept away. She sucked in a breath, his clean masculine scent beguiling her. Her gaze dropped to the open collar of his shirt. If she pressed her mouth to his warm skin, would he moan? Darling lifted her head, and he met her lips with a kiss. Too stunned to protest, she sank into his kiss, savoring the spicy taste of him and the firmness of his lips. He skimmed the curve of her spine with his hands before resting them at her hips. Drawing her closer, he brought her against the hard line of his arousal. Desire exploded, and she wiggled her hips in hopes of easing the sudden tension at the apex of her thighs. As if sensing her need, he cupped her butt, shifting her slightly until he was wedged between her legs.

Lightning arced through her veins as he settled more firmly against her core. She gasped, and he deepened the kiss, tongues dueling in a fevered dance. Tightening her arms around his neck, Darling relished the sensations vibrating through her system, and decided to enjoy them.

Lifting his head, Darryl stared into her face. For once she didn’t care if he knew how much she wanted him, her fingers stroked the nape of his neck. She regarded him a moment before he brushed his lips across hers one last time before stepping away.

“I like flirting with you.” He trailed his fingers down her arm.

And with those few words he ruined the mood. She drew a ragged breath into her lungs and shoved his hand aside. How could one little kiss leave her so edgy and uncomfortable? She couldn’t give in to the demands of her body. She needed a clear head.

Satin Sheets in Space Virtual Book Tour with Giveaways!

The Virtual Book Tour with CBLS Promotions begins June 10.

Here’s the schedule:

June 10: Close Encounters with the Night Kind (Giveaway/Review)

June 12: Delighted Reader Book Reviews (Giveaway/Review)

June 14: Curse of the Bibliophile (Interview/Review)

June 16: Erotica For All (Guest Post)

June 17: ReadingDiva’s Blog (Giveaway/Review)

Satin Sheets in Space:

Danyka’s unusual height and radiant red hair earn her the cold shoulder from any guy she approaches, unless he wants to experiment with a giant. So when her boss sets up on a one night stand, she hopes for a prince but expects the usual toad.

As a captivating stranger whisks her away from the ball and introduces her to his equally gorgeous brother, she fears her fantasies have become a nightmare. Has she finally given into impulse only to become a lab rat in an unknown world?

Excerpt & Buy Links

Interviews and a giveaway!

[image error]Over on Backward Momentum, I’m interviewing Sarah J. Carr about her new release, Revealing Hamilton.

http://backwardmomentum.blogspot.ca/2012/06/revealing-hamilton-blog-tour-interview.html

And today is the last stop in my new releases blog tour. Stop by Laura Kaye’s blog where I’m interviewed, and for your chance to WIN an Amazon.com gift certificate.

http://laurakayeauthor.blogspot.ca/2012/06/come-celebrate-jessica-subjects-2-new.html

Six Sentence Sunday – Danyka is not on Earth anymore in SATIN SHEETS IN SPACE #sixsunday

Phew! It’s been an exhausting week with the releases of

SATIN SHEETS IN SPACE and AN UNEXPECTED RETURN.

Here’s another six from Satin Sheets in Space.

Thank you for coming to ready my Six Sentence Sunday post! Enjoy!

Danyka’s date just told her his name and that they were on his spaceship.

Here’s Danyka’s reaction:

At least she now knew his name, but wait…. Spaceship? She stared at the man, disillusioned. She could think of no other explanation for how they had traveled to a new location with the press of a button. Oh God, she’d been abducted by an alien. How would she get out of this situation? The first time she’d done something spur-of-the-moment, and she’d ended up being finger-fucked by an extraterrestrial.

Visit http://www.sixsunday.com/ to find out who’s participating in Six Sentence Sunday this week or follow the #sixsunday hashtag on twitter.

The new release celebration continues with more giveaways!

I’m still celebrating the release of Satin Sheets in Space and An Unexpected Return. Today I’m at Daily Dose of Decadence, talking about erotic massage and the Adamos of Elatia. Over there, I’m giving away one of my backlist titles from Decadent Publishing.

http://decadentpublishing.blogspot.ca/2012/06/erotic-massage-on-elatia.html

AND, I’m visiting my good friend Layna Pimentel, discussing how to write a memorable scene. You can WIN an Amazon gift certificate over there.

http://laynapimentel.com/2012/06/01/writing-a-memorable-scene-by-jessica-subject/

Don’t forget to stop by the Day Dreaming blog to read an interview, and another chance to WIN an Amazon gift certificate.

http://daydrmzzz.blogspot.ca/2012/05/jessica-e-subject.html

Have a great weekend!

Interview with romance author, Kerrianne Coombes

I’m very excited to welcome one of my writing buds, Kerrianne Coombes to my blog today.  Her first book, Running Home, debuted in February, and she’s had two more releases since then.

Kerrianne, can you tell us how long you’ve been writing with the hopes of publication? 

KC: About four years. Four really difficult—oh my gosh, what am I doing–years.

How did you get started?

KC: I just thought of an idea, and started writing. Firstly, it was just a way for me to blow off steam, or relax. And after a while I thought I might try to get good at it, so I put more and more time into writing—until I was addicted.

Sounds like how I started. What genres do you write in, and what appeals to you about those genres?

KC: I write whatever I feel. Sometimes that is contemporary, sometimes its paranormal. I don’t have a set genre, I am way too fickle for that

What titles do you have published?

KC: My first book is called Running Home, and it is a contemporary Romance about a guy who is an injured ex-soldier. He is trying his hardest to be a recluse—scarred and bitter—when Jo, literally falls on his doorstep in need of help.

Then I have The One That Got Away. This book is about second chance love, and all of the pain involved. It is a very heartfelt story, and I loved writing it.

Then, I have a paranormal Romance, called Beauty and the Beast. Demon Tales. Which is a dark, and somewhat messed up version of the old classic.

Do you have any recent or upcoming releases?

KC: I have another book out in July, called Inevitable—another contemporary Romance. And the sequel to Beauty and the Beast—Cinderella The Demon Tale—will be out in August.

Wow, look at you go. Congratulations! What are you working on now?

KC: Currently, I have four WIP’s open—which I regret sorely—But I cant seem to stop from starting a new story. LOL Two Contemporary, one paranormal, and one Urban Fantasy.

Can you describe your daily writing routine?

KC: The kids are my first priority every day. I have to get them ready for school and all that involves—Mainly me following them asking the same questions over and over ‘Have you brushed your teeth?’ LOL Then I have a million other things I do, but I try to devote a couple of hours a day to writing.

I can totally relate. Are you a plotter or a pantser?

KC: Pantser. But I wish I could plot, my muse hates it. She leads me away from the plot on purpose, I am sure. I usually have a beginning, a middle and an end—and I go from there. Usually the end changes completely, but I don’t mind, it makes it interesting for me.

What genres do you enjoy reading?

KC: ALL, and any. I am a greedy reader. The more the merrier. As long as the story is strong, characters are clear, I will read it. BUT If I had to choose one genre only, it would be paranormal.

Who is your favorite character from any of your books?

KC: Okay, in Beauty and the Beast, there is a character called Sam. He is a Ram Demon, who is friends with Torc—Briggs brother—and he will have his own book. I love him, already I sense how tormented he is, I just want to hug him.

“Why are you taunting me, Ram? Do you like having the shit beaten out of you?” Brigg’s temper was surging through his blood. His muscles bunched and itched for action. But he didn’t want to fight a demon who was his friend—a demon who was so clearly goading him.

Sam shrugged. “I’m just trying to show you that you care for her, spell or no spell.” Sam slumped in the leather chair with a freshly poured drink, held it up to the light and watched the dark liquid with a sad expression. “Don’t let anyone tell you what to feel, Brigg—because it fucking kills you when you realize they were wrong.” Brigg watched Sam drain his glass. He turned back to the window just in time to see the carriage roll away.

Where do your best ideas come from?

KC: I have no idea. LOL Sometimes my dreams, sometimes just by hearing a saying—a sentence—it is always when I least expect it x

What is your favorite book that you’ve read?

KC: SO. Many. Anything by Sherrilyn Kenyon, Nalini Singh, Maya Banks, Lara Adrian, Larissa Ione. I could not name a favorite.

Who is your favorite character from any of the books you’ve read?

KC: Again, so many. I adore so many book characters, and all of them are such complicated characters, that I would have to say. I love the complicated characters—instead of naming just one. But, maybe Acheron from the Dark hunter books, if I had to. And Simi, and Nick, and Faith from The psy/changeling books…see! I cant just name one! LOL

What writing/writer’s organizations are you involved with? Can you explain how they help your writing and/or your writing career?

KC: I am involved with the Kelley Armstrong writers group, the OWG, and it has helped me so much. I haven’t been there for a little while *Guilt stab* But I rely on their feedback so totally.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to aspiring authors?

KC: READ!!!!!

Oh, yes, I agree. Is there anything else my readers should know about you?

KC: That I intend to write until I cant write no more! LOL

Thank you so much, Kerrianne! I hope your year continues to be a fabulous one!

Find Kerrianne Coombes here:

Blog / Twitter / Facebook 

And find her books here:

Secret Cravings Publishing / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / All Romance & more