Carrie Ann Ryan's Blog, page 183

A Taste for a Mate: Six Sentence Sunday #42

Hi y'all! I thought I'd bring us back to my second book in the Redwood Pack series, A Taste for a Mate for my six. Thanks so much for coming and commenting!


Willow rubbed her nose against Jasper’s neck, inhaling his woodsy wolf and man scent. He smelled like home. Curling into his body, she let herself relax. Though she tried to be stoic and strong for Melanie, she’d been as frightened as when the Central Pack had taken her. Watching Edward tear into her new friend’s body had taken all of Willow’s inner strength not to run from the room. Knowing Jasper was there to cling to later was the only thing that kept her calm.


You can find A Taste for a Mate here: AmazonBarnes & Noble ARe

Book Lovers Buffet Book Sale

Welcome to the Book Lover’s Buffet!!! The Buffet will open to the public on June 8, 2012 and close on June 22, 2012 over on the Book Lovers' Buffet Website. We’re excited to offer you more than 150 romance novels, each for the special Buffet price of $0.99. There all ALL types of generes and TWO of my books will be on there in the Paranormal and Erotic sections, An Alpha's Path & A Night Away.What does this mean for you? Well, you get to find over 150 novels in one place for only $0.99!! If you haven't had a chance to try out my Redwood Pack books, this is a great deal for y'all.  An Alpha’s Path Book 1 in the Redwood Pack Series
          Melanie is a twenty-five year old chemist who has spent all of her adult life slaving at school. With her PhD in hand, she's to start her dream job, but before she does, her friend persuades her to relax and try to live again. A blind date set up through her friends seems like the perfect solution. Melanie can take one night away from the lab and let her inner vixen out on a fixed blind date - a chance to get crazy with a perfect stranger. The gorgeous hunk she's to meet exceeds her wildest dreams – but he is more than what he appears and Melanie's analytical mind goes into overdrive.
            Kade, a slightly older werewolf (at over one hundred years), needs a night way from the Pack. Too many responsibilities and one near miss with a potential mate made Kade hide in his work, the only peace he can find. His brother convinces him to meet the sexy woman for a one night of fun. What could it hurt? But when he finds this woman could be his mate, can he convince her to leave her orderly, sane world and be with him and his wolf-half, for life?

Amazon  Barnes & Noble ARe
A Night Away Book 3.5 in the Redwood Pack Series

Kade Jamenson has been mated to Melanie for almost two years. They’ve been through mating circles, battles, loss, misunderstandings, and finally, the birth of their son, Finn. The world is in turmoil around them as the Redwoods engage in war with the Centrals. But for Kade and Melanie, the turmoil is also happening at home. The responsibility of a restless baby and their Pack has taken a toll and they need a break. Not from each other. But from their Pack. Just for a night.Kade takes Mel away for a romantic getaway and leaves Uncle Maddox alone with baby Finn. The Omega of the Redwood Pack may be adept at emotions but the idea of a baby may be beyond his immense capabilities. Author’s Note: This is a novella set between books 3 and 4 to give you a taste of Mel and Kade. It is best that you have already immersed yourselves in the Redwood Pack world, however even new readers will enjoy a glimpse of one of the Redwood’s favorite couples.


Amazon  Barnes&Noble  ARe

Fresh Friday Reads: Cowboys, Paranormal, and Contemporary Goodness.

Here are my top picks of the week! Now tell me, what are you reading today???
Colters' Promise - Maya Banks

Maya Banks was the first threesome author I'd ever read. I LOVE her. This story was a novella set in the Colters' world that I already loved and I am SOOO happy she wrote more for us! I'll read anything she writes and I want my own set of three Colters' men. Come on, you know you want it to.

Return to the captivating storytelling of New York Times bestselling author Maya Banks, and her stirring saga of three brothers and one indomitable woman—of wounded hearts, family, and forgiveness… When it came to overcoming the odds of a tragic past, Lily was determined to move on. The three Colter brothers helped her do it. They taught her new ways to love, new dreams to share, and offered her a new life that she never thought possible.

Now is a time for celebration, and what better way than with a long-awaited family reunion, a homecoming that will bring together the entire Colter family and a few surprises no one anticipated. But first, there’s something from Lily’s past she still needs to reconcile—even when all the while she is holding close to her heart a newfound secret that will change her future, forever enrich the Colter legacy, and make every promise come true.

Chaos Burning - Lauren Dane

Lauren Dane just gets better and better. This book was so cool! I mean, she has kick has characters in a world that gets deeper as time goes on. I highly recommend this series.

From the “always fabulous Lauren Dane”* comes her new novel of a treacherous family legacy, a temptation just as dangerous, and an evil so depraved it can only be spoken of in whispers…

 The life of Lark Jaansen, hunter in Clan Gennessee, has been shaped by violence and unrest—and it defines her future. Well-trained and resilient, she’s met her militaristic match in Simon Leviathan, a warrior not of this world. Locked in mutual admiration, and a desire so hot it burns, Lark and Simon have something else in common: they love the dark, and as a shadow is cast over their world, they’re each coming into their own.

A mysterious war has been waged among the Others. As witches and humans turn against each other, as faes retreat in fear, and as vampires rise, Lark and Simon discover that an unseen force is behind it. A single, hungry entity older than recorded history has returned to gorge on the magick of his victims. It is the Magister, nothing less than the end of time. Finding it is Lark and Simon’s first hope. Surviving it is their last.

Kiss the Dead - Laurell K Hamilton

I've always been a fan of Anita Blake. I know others have given up because she changed the series a bit, but I don't care. I go in knowing how much sex is going to be in it, and I'm fine. As long as I don't have to deal with Richard myself LOL. Great book!


When a fifteen-year-old girl is abducted by vampires, it’s up to U.S. Marshal Anita Blake to find her. And when she does, she’s faced with something she’s never seen before: a terrifyingly ordinary group of people—kids, grandparents, soccer moms—all recently turned and willing to die to avoid serving a master. And where there’s one martyr, there will be more…

But even vampires have monsters that they’re afraid of. And Anita is one of them…

Accidentally Dead Again - Dakota Cassidy

Do you love snark? Because I do! Love this series! If you haven't tried out Dakota, you're missing out! Go on, you know you want to!

After a wild, work-sponsored Halloween party, entomologist Sam McLean wakes up with a spotty memory—and a pointy set of fangs. Somehow, Sam’s unconscious body ends up at the OOPS office, where paranormal crisis counselors Nina, Marty, and Wanda give him the lowdown on accidentally becoming a creature of the night. Sam is speeding through the stages of newbie grief, until a woman named Pheobe Reynolds bursts onto the scene claiming to be Nina’s sister—resulting in a catfight that ends with Pheobe’s luscious behind in the direct path of Sam’s fangs. Now, the OOPS girls have two fledgling vamps on their hands, and their powers—and the attraction building between them—are unlike anything they’ve seen before…

Believe in Me - Rebecca Royce

Short, sexy, and sweet! I want my own Jack Johnson. (The werewolf AND the singer.) Rebecca did so much in such a little amount of works since its a 1NS. I really enjoyed it!

Werewolf Jack Johnson has always known he wanted a human woman to share his intense emotions. When he signs up for a 1Night Stand date, the same service that found a mate for his sister, he knows the odds are against him finding his own—yet he believes he will.

Gloria Powell has been on the run with her six-year old daughter for years, desperate to escape a deranged ex-husband bent on killing her. Tired of running and never having a normal life, she just wants one night to forget everything.

Can Gloria believe in and accept the protective wolf Madame Eve found for her or has she really given up on believing in fantasies?

Mine to Hold - Shayla Black

Sexy, hot, emotional. Perfect. There isn't much to say other than you may need a cool drink of water afterward...and during!

A friend’s duty.

Tyler Murphy was an LAPD detective, single and happy—until a near-fatal tragedy crippled his friend, fellow detective Eric Catalano. While he supported Eric, he also became a shoulder for Eric’s wife, Delaney, to cry on. But with one naughty suggestion from Eric, a drunken night with Delaney spilled into erotic abandon. Before it was over Tyler saw his best friend’s wife as a woman and yearned for more. When Eric struggled to deal with the aftermath, Delaney begged Tyler to leave. Crushed, he fled to Louisiana, hoping to escape his longing for the one woman he could never have again…and unaware of what he’d left behind.

A lover’s desire. 

After two years of living with regret, Tyler finds Delaney on his doorstep, her husband having abandoned her long ago. She’s protecting a shocking secret and desperately needs refuge from a killer determined to see her dead. As they fight to stay alive and catch the stalker, they struggle to resolve the guilt of their past pleasures. But they can’t deny that what was once a spark is now a flame burning out of control. To possess Delaney — body and soul — Tyler must heal her pain and thwart the evil that’s a mere breath behind her…

Blazing the Trail - Deborah Cooke

Love this YA series. Just the right amount of angst, but an actual teenage heroine who can stand up for herself and grow up. Yep, love this series!

It’s almost Valentine’s Day, and Zoë Sorensson’s love life is heating up. Cute, loyal, and understanding, wolf shifter Derek is pretty much the perfect guy. He likes Zoë, and he knows what it’s like to have to keep a secret. Yet, Zoë can’t help but wish it was rebel rocker Jared asking her to the Valentine’s dance instead. But Jared’s too busy playing hot and cold with her heart, calling Zoë his dragon girl one minute and then taking special interest in her best friend the next.

Zoë is just about ready to breathe fire, especially once she uncovers a new threat that targets her friends. Although Zoë thought the Mages were defeated, they’re back and have invoked an old spell to give them new power—they plan to eliminate all shape shifters on the night of the big dance. Now, Zoë must lead an alliance of young shifters to battle the Mages and figure out exactly what—and who—she wants, before it all goes up in smoke…

Thursday Tales: Cari Silverwood gets Naughty (in her interview)

Today on the blog, I'm happy to have with me Cari Silverwood! Other than her fabulous name - though she doesn't spell it right LOL - she's also an amazing person and author! Join me in welcoming her!!!

Hi, I’m Cari Silverwood, I write erotic romances with a BDSM spin. I thought this interview of Sten, my hero from my steampunk book, Lust Plague, would be a nice way to introduce the feel of the book…or at least the feel of Sten.
Hot on the trail of rumors of a vast area of deepest Europe being depopulated by a deadly zombie plague, we sent our intrepid reporter, Joanne Vax, to London airfield to interview survivors. Here is her exclusive report, transcribed live.
Joanne: Many of the survivors refused to talk to me but they did refer me to one man, Sten, who is a frankenstruct – from a clone line that was given double-muscling and extreme warrior characteristics. I decided to track him down but tread carefully. Getting my head chewed off wasn’t on my list of things to do.
I found him checking the underside of an airship, the Princess Kay. The wind gusts tore at my notepad, flapping the sheets, and roaring in my ears.  He’s a very big man and wearing a plain navy woolen shirt with short sleeves and dark gray trousers. The large weapon sheathed at his back appears to be a shotgun. When I’m a few feet away his single gold earring resolves into a wolf’s head.
“Mr. Sten?” I grip a page that tries to tear free. “Sorry, I don’t know your last name!”
He stares at me while curled strands of his sandy hair whip across his forehead.
“Um…” Right, no last name. I draw a shaky line across that question.
“I was wondering, sir, if you’d answer a few questions regarding the rumors about a plague.” Caught by the cold, I hug myself, shiver, and rub my upper arms.
When he reaches up toward that shotgun butt and scratches his head, I jump.  I never liked guns.“Well.” The depth of his voice surprises me, all the way down to my toes. He screws up his face, then shrugs.  “If you want to come with me while I check the Princess Kay, I’ll do my best. But no questions about any plague.” He grins.
None? Hell. Is it a secret then? Hmm. Maybe I can sneak some in. “Okay.
 I pump more ink into my fountain pen, ready to write. Asking questions while trailing along behind is odd, yet nice. I get to admire his broad shoulders. The man’s handsome in a rough and ready way. He seems to be poking every nook and cranny up there. Why, I have no idea.
“I’ve heard, sir, that you fell in love with an airship captain, a Kaysana Onomi? Can you tell me what your favorite thing is about her?”
He sniffs, then tosses his reply back. “Her hair – it’s beautiful. Like black silk. Oh, and the way she can tear a new asshole in anyone who annoys her. Sooo sexy.”
Uh. Really? I must remember that one for my next boyfriend.  “And” – I skip over a nest of large hoses piled on the tarmac – “and her most annoying trait?”
“Same! Because sometimes she tries it on me.” He sends a dark look at me over his shoulder. “And then I take her by the hair, hold her against a wall and pinch her nipples until she squeaks. “Hehe. Damn fun.”I swallow. I think my panties just got wet.
“How old were you when you lost your virginity?”
“Fuck! What a question! Privacy, woman. Next!”
And now my hands are shaking again. I stare at the next question:  What sexual talent of Kaysana’s is your favorite? No way. I scribble that one out.
“Right,” I mutter. “If there was something you could change about the first few weeks you knew Kaysana, what would it be?”
“Wooo. Uh. Less death, less people dying. Yeah that one. Maybe a holiday on the beach would have been nicer.”
Sneaky question time, Jo. Go for it. I nibble my lip. “So, these dead wouldn’t have been zombies, would they?”
His look is icy as a blizzard. “Bad question, Joanne. They were dead. Dead is always not good. Okay?”
“Okay,” I whisper while furiously nodding. Back away slow. “Um. Which do you prefer, coffee, tea, or something else?” Extract of cobra venom…napalm…blood of stupid reporter? I half-expect one of those.
“Coffee.”
God. A normal answer. How strange.
“What addiction can you not live without?”
His footsteps slow and he gazes off into the distance for a while. There’s only a gray London fog, so I know he’s thinking.
“Waking up next to my woman and being able to reach out and touch her and know we’re going to be doing this for a long long time.” He turns and puts out a hand to help me over a pile of tarpaulins. “Almost done. Just the reserve cargo hold. No one’s been in there since the ship got retrieved in Tibet.
“Oh.” Tibet – according to rumor, that was the dead center of this non-existent plague. I grip my pen tightly, like I can maybe use it to skewer anything dangerous that pops up.
I watch as he slides his shotgun free and flicks off some catch. He spins the middle gold chamber. I see the ends of bullets glint as they roll past. “Are we…safe?”
“Sure.” He uses a long hooked stick to undo the catch on the cargo bay above us. The door folds down with a hiss of hydraulics and something man-sized falls out.
“Run!” Sten yells.
After one mind-melting scream I bolt back over the tarpaulins and cower there, hiding.
The thing rises from the ground snarling. Gore and yellow ooze drips from the man’s open mouth. Something catches my eye. His mouth isn’t open, he has no lower jaw. The smell of putrid flesh rolls over me like a fat cloud, so thick I can taste it on my tongue. I retch.
“Damn.” Sten sighs, lifts his shotgun.
The thing lunges for him. Its blackened fingers flop backward as if hinged the wrong way.
Sten pulls the trigger. The boom of the gun deafens me and echoes. When I look up the thing is on the ground in pieces.  One last grope from its dismembered hand – I hear the fingernails scrape on the tarpaulin a foot from my nose – then it ceases to move. My heart is pounding so loudly I think it wants to leave home.“Sorry ’bout that,” Sten announces. He flips a loose piece of tarp over the body and the pieces. “Any more questions?”
My teeth chatter a little before I choke the words out. “What…what do you most fear?” It’s a question on my list and so damn right just then.
“Oooh. Snakes? Yeah, snakes.”
I try not to look bug-eyed. “Not zombies?”
“Hah! Zombies? They don’t exist.” Grinning, he plants his foot right on the biggest bulge in the tarp. It squelches. “Do they, Miss Vax?”
“Um. No?”
“Good answer. Very. Good. Answer.”
I smile stiffly then shake the hand he offers. I am never ever visiting Tibet.
Buylinks:http://www.amazon.com/Lust-Plague-Steamwork-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B007P0OLSA/ref=pd_rhf_dp_p_img_1http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-lustplague-767894-147.htmlhttp://store.fictionwise.com/ebooks/b132777/Lust-Plague-/Cari-Silverwood/?si=0http://www.loose-id.com/Steamwork-Chronicles-Lust-Plague.aspx
Blurb:Saving the world should be easier.

When airship captain Kaysana meets Sten, the last thing she wants to do is have mad rough sex with him while bound by ropes and clamps but fate pencils in their appointment. The lust plague strikes. From her infected crew, zombies arise.

With her ship gone, she must rely on Sten, a human clone, a man who has fought all his life to master himself. She despises his kind and detests Sten’s growing hold on her. Though he never takes no for an answer, surely it’s the plague that makes yes slip from her tongue like melted butter? Or should she blame her own traitorous heart?

Hordes of slavering zombies await them. Sten and Kaysana unlimber weapons, don goggles, and set a course for the origin of the plague. Yet their victory will be hollow if they cannot also solve the puzzle of their hearts.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual situations, graphic language, and material that some readers may find objectionable: anal play/intercourse, BDSM theme and elements, exhibitionism, spanking, strong violence.
Excerpt:
“Stay still,” Sten said quietly, firmly, then put his hand to her bare back and felt her jerk at the press of skin to skin. The transformation made his dick quiver as always, and damn, he was already hard. The way Kaysana’s face changed fascinated him. It was like watching a flower unfurl. The hardness, the wariness, drained away. Instead she looked at him with adoration and acceptance in those toffee brown eyes. Yet after a few seconds, he saw awareness return. This is new. She’s resisting this thing that affects us. He didn’t bother trying to resist anymore. He wanted her, knew he would’ve anyway. This just made it easier. The Zen let him see the truth. Having Kaysana kneel at his feet -- this was his fantasy, want, need…whatever. Having her want him back sent his libido soaring into the stratosphere. Done deal.The intriguing thing was watching her wriggle to get out of it. To deny her needs.“Come.” He tugged, then towed her to the front of the rooftop by the leash wrapped in his hand. “Sit here. Stop trying to push me away. You’re right. Last time I touched you, those zombies zeroed in on us like flies to…” Blood.Keep your shit focused.Zone them out. Zen, man, Zen. Took him a few hard seconds, but he managed. He had to. Their lives depended on this working. The difficult bit was keeping her in a mental space where she forgot. At the touch of his hand on her shoulder, she sighed. Quivering with need already? Her smart, thinking side was clearly miles away. He spread his fingers on her warm skin and smiled.If not for the effects of the plague, this would never have worked. The zombies waiting below to rip them apart weren’t exactly love potion ingredients.Sten pressed his palm on her nape, made her kneel, turned the leash around his fist until his knuckles brushed the angle of her throat and jaw. He bent down, staring at her. Her gaze went all gooey, her pupils dilating, gorgeous -- if he could’ve bottled that, he would’ve.“Let’s kiss,” he murmured.The feel of her soft lips under his near unhinged him. Their hot breaths mingled as he explored her mouth. At first passive, then she struggled a little and tried to pull away. With his hands at her neck and throat, he held her to him. “No,” he whispered, licking the corner of her mouth. “You’re not going anywhere. I’ve got you.”Then he crushed her resistance, shoving his tongue between her lips, taking over her mouth with his while he slid his fingers into her hair. He turned his hand to screw those fingers into the roots, wrapping hair about each finger -- harder, tighter. When she gasped and her mouth fell open, he knew he had her. He kept at her. Not until she moaned uncontrollably into his mouth did he let up and slowly lift away.

Writer Wednesday: An Interview with Lauren Clark

Hi Everyone!! I have the lovely Lauren Clark here today! I'm super excited and already downloaded her book so I can try it out!
Hi! Thanks so much for coming today. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Lauren Clark writes contemporary novels set in the Deep South; stories sprinkled with sunshine, suspense, and secrets. A former TV news anchor, Lauren adores flavored coffee, local book stores, and anywhere she can stick her toes in the sand. Her big loves are her family, paying it forward, and true-blue friends. Check out her website at www.laurenclarkbooks.com.
Tell us a bit about your book.
Travel writer Julia Sullivan lives life in fast-forward. She jet sets to Europe and the Caribbean with barely a moment to blink or sleep. But too many mishaps and missed deadlines have Julia on the verge of being fired. With a stern warning, and unemployment looming, she's offered one last chance to rescue her career. Julia embarks on an unlikely journey to the ‘Heart of Dixie’—Eufaula, Alabama—home to magnificent mansions, sweet tea, and the annual Pilgrimage. Julia arrives, soon charmed by the lovely city and her handsome host, but her stay is marred by a shocking discovery. Can Julia's story save her career, Eufaula, and the annual Pilgrimage? 
Is this part of a series?  Not yet! I’m toying with the idea of bringing Julia back for another book, but we’ll see what readers say first!
What did you find the hardest part of writing it to be? 
I began writing Dixieabout five years ago. I’d put it aside when I decided to stay home with my children. Picking it back up again and delving in was tough!  I had to get to know all of my characters again, revisit the city’s history, and decide how to move the story forward and make it better!
What was your favorite part? 
I used to live near Eufaula and went to the Pilgrimage several times, so it was really fun to “revisit” the city’s history from the 1800s and imagine what it must have been like for the first settlers to live there and watch the area grow and change. I spent a lot of time researching online, at the library, and in books that I have at home.
Rate your story in terms of steaminess
1= Iced Sweet Tea     10 =  Molten Chocolate Lava CakeDixieis a 3, as Shug and Julia are in the very beginning of their relationship. At the outset, they are each dating other people and have to choose whether or not to end those relationships. If there’s a sequel, I can really see Dixie 2 being an 8 or better!
Who is your favorite romance author? 
I’m such an eclectic reader and love many authors – Emily Giffin, Juliette Sobanet (Kissed in Paris, Sleeping with Paris) Sophie Kinsella, Alice Hoffman, and Audrey Niffenegger did a great job with The Time Traveler’s Wife. I also just finished El James’ Fifty Shades of Grey….steamy!! I used to love Nicholas Sparks until several bookstore employees told me that he was really arrogant and dismissive to them during book signings. Such a shame, because he’s talented.
What is your favorite romance book or series?
Although it might be an unusual pick, James Patterson’s Suzanne’s Diary for Nicholasis fabulous! I remember being on a long airplane ride to California and another woman was reading it at the same time. During the flight, we checked in with each other several times…”What chapter are you on?” By the time the jet landed, we were BOTH in tears!I also will admit that I loved the Twilight series. I am in the Jacob camp, though!
Who is your favorite romance character? If you could go on a date with that person, what would you do? Details please! *wink*
I’d love to meet Rhett Butler--who doesn’t love a scoundrel? Scarlett was crazy for pining after Ashley Wilkes (boring!) For a date, I’d love to dress up, ride in a horse-drawn carriage, and dance for hours at one of the many lavish balls in Gone with the Wind. Rhett is dashing and handsome—a man’s man who wasn’t afraid to say what he thought or go after what he wanted in life. I imagine he’d be charming and funny—and unlike Ashley—quite proficient in the romance department!!
Boxers or Briefs?   
BOXERS, please for the love of GOD!
What is next for you? 
I am researching for my next novel, The Pie Lab. The setting will include the real restaurant (of the same name) in Greensboro, Alabama. For this novel, the story will follow a girl who’s gone off to a big city (like Atlanta or New York) and vows NEVER to come home. She’s forced to return to Greensboro, though, when her romantic relationship falls apart. Since she’s burned a lot of bridges, it will be interesting to see how she makes amends.  The Pie Lab, on its own, is a great concept, as the business offers on the job training and the owners are very active in the community. Added bonus…the pies are delicious! The Pie Lab has been featured in Southern Living and The New York Times.
What were your first impressions of each other?
Julia – I thought Shug Jordan was adorable. He loves his family, Eufaula, and is a guy who fights for what’s right. That’s sexy!Shug – I thought Julia was cute and a total klutz.
What are your favorite parts about each other?
Julia – Shug’s sense of humor.Shug – Julia’s eyes and the way she laughs.
What’s next for you?
Julia – I’m on vacation with Shug in Eufaula.Shug – I bought property in the historic district and am building a house. 
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Lauren Clark writes contemporary novels set in the Deep South; stories sprinkled with sunshine, suspense, and secrets.
A former TV news anchor, Lauren adores flavored coffee, local book stores, and anywhere she can stick her toes in the sand. Her big loves are her family, paying it forward, and true-blue friends. Check out her website at www.laurenclarkbooks.com.
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5280308.Lauren_Clark
https://twitter.com/ - !/LaurenClark_Bks        
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lauren-Clark/235315706518284
BLURB:
Travel writer Julia Sullivan lives life in fast-forward. She jet sets to Europe and the Caribbean with barely a moment to blink or sleep. But too many mishaps and missed deadlines have Julia on the verge of being fired.
With a stern warning, and unemployment looming, she's offered one last chance to rescue her career. Julia embarks on an unlikely journey to the ‘Heart of Dixie’—Eufaula, Alabama—home to magnificent mansions, sweet tea, and the annual Pilgrimage.
Julia arrives, soon charmed by the lovely city and her handsome host, but her stay is marred by a shocking discovery. Can Julia's story save her career, Eufaula, and the annual Pilgrimage? 
EXCERPT
“But, I have plans. Every night next week. Tickets to the Met, a fundraiser, a gallery opening, and I have book club on Monday.” I don’t mention the Filene’s trip I’d planned. Or the romantic date I’ve been promising Andrew, my neglected boyfriend of four years.
David waves a hand to dismiss it all. “Marietta can handle the magazine-related responsibilities.” From the top drawer of his desk he produces an airline ticket and a manila folder with my name on it. He sets them on the edge of his desk. Something I can’t decipher plays on his lips.
I keep my voice even. “What about Bali?” I had planned to leave for the South Pacific a week from Friday. “It’s on my calendar. It’s been on there…”    
David shakes his head. “Not anymore.”
The words wound me like a thousand bee stings.
“Alabama,” David repeats.
My face grows hot. He’s plucked me off a plum assignment without a thought to my ability and my schedule. My new boss is sending me to God knows where and he looks perfectly content.
“If that’s my next assignment,” I sputter, “I’d rather…I’d rather dance naked!”
The announcement comes out much louder than I intend and reverberates through the room. Dolores probably has her ear pressed to the door, but the phrase bounces off my boss like a cotton ball.
David smothers a chuckle. “Suit yourself.”   Lauren will be awarding a $25 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour. Be sure to click the graphic below so you can find more posts!!

Wednesday Writers: An Interview with Lauren Clark

Hi Everyone!! I have the lovely Lauren Clark here today! I'm super excited and already downloaded her book so I can try it out!
Hi! Thanks so much for coming today. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Lauren Clark writes contemporary novels set in the Deep South; stories sprinkled with sunshine, suspense, and secrets. A former TV news anchor, Lauren adores flavored coffee, local book stores, and anywhere she can stick her toes in the sand. Her big loves are her family, paying it forward, and true-blue friends. Check out her website at www.laurenclarkbooks.com.
Tell us a bit about your book.
Travel writer Julia Sullivan lives life in fast-forward. She jet sets to Europe and the Caribbean with barely a moment to blink or sleep. But too many mishaps and missed deadlines have Julia on the verge of being fired. With a stern warning, and unemployment looming, she's offered one last chance to rescue her career. Julia embarks on an unlikely journey to the ‘Heart of Dixie’—Eufaula, Alabama—home to magnificent mansions, sweet tea, and the annual Pilgrimage. Julia arrives, soon charmed by the lovely city and her handsome host, but her stay is marred by a shocking discovery. Can Julia's story save her career, Eufaula, and the annual Pilgrimage? 
Is this part of a series?  Not yet! I’m toying with the idea of bringing Julia back for another book, but we’ll see what readers say first!
What did you find the hardest part of writing it to be? 
I began writing Dixieabout five years ago. I’d put it aside when I decided to stay home with my children. Picking it back up again and delving in was tough!  I had to get to know all of my characters again, revisit the city’s history, and decide how to move the story forward and make it better!
What was your favorite part? 
I used to live near Eufaula and went to the Pilgrimage several times, so it was really fun to “revisit” the city’s history from the 1800s and imagine what it must have been like for the first settlers to live there and watch the area grow and change. I spent a lot of time researching online, at the library, and in books that I have at home.
Rate your story in terms of steaminess
1= Iced Sweet Tea     10 =  Molten Chocolate Lava CakeDixieis a 3, as Shug and Julia are in the very beginning of their relationship. At the outset, they are each dating other people and have to choose whether or not to end those relationships. If there’s a sequel, I can really see Dixie 2 being an 8 or better!
Who is your favorite romance author? 
I’m such an eclectic reader and love many authors – Emily Giffin, Juliette Sobanet (Kissed in Paris, Sleeping with Paris) Sophie Kinsella, Alice Hoffman, and Audrey Niffenegger did a great job with The Time Traveler’s Wife. I also just finished El James’ Fifty Shades of Grey….steamy!! I used to love Nicholas Sparks until several bookstore employees told me that he was really arrogant and dismissive to them during book signings. Such a shame, because he’s talented.
What is your favorite romance book or series?
Although it might be an unusual pick, James Patterson’s Suzanne’s Diary for Nicholasis fabulous! I remember being on a long airplane ride to California and another woman was reading it at the same time. During the flight, we checked in with each other several times…”What chapter are you on?” By the time the jet landed, we were BOTH in tears!I also will admit that I loved the Twilight series. I am in the Jacob camp, though!
Who is your favorite romance character? If you could go on a date with that person, what would you do? Details please! *wink*
I’d love to meet Rhett Butler--who doesn’t love a scoundrel? Scarlett was crazy for pining after Ashley Wilkes (boring!) For a date, I’d love to dress up, ride in a horse-drawn carriage, and dance for hours at one of the many lavish balls in Gone with the Wind. Rhett is dashing and handsome—a man’s man who wasn’t afraid to say what he thought or go after what he wanted in life. I imagine he’d be charming and funny—and unlike Ashley—quite proficient in the romance department!!
Boxers or Briefs?   
BOXERS, please for the love of GOD!
What is next for you? 
I am researching for my next novel, The Pie Lab. The setting will include the real restaurant (of the same name) in Greensboro, Alabama. For this novel, the story will follow a girl who’s gone off to a big city (like Atlanta or New York) and vows NEVER to come home. She’s forced to return to Greensboro, though, when her romantic relationship falls apart. Since she’s burned a lot of bridges, it will be interesting to see how she makes amends.  The Pie Lab, on its own, is a great concept, as the business offers on the job training and the owners are very active in the community. Added bonus…the pies are delicious! The Pie Lab has been featured in Southern Living and The New York Times.
What were your first impressions of each other?
Julia – I thought Shug Jordan was adorable. He loves his family, Eufaula, and is a guy who fights for what’s right. That’s sexy!Shug – I thought Julia was cute and a total klutz.
What are your favorite parts about each other?
Julia – Shug’s sense of humor.Shug – Julia’s eyes and the way she laughs.
What’s next for you?
Julia – I’m on vacation with Shug in Eufaula.Shug – I bought property in the historic district and am building a house. 
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Lauren Clark writes contemporary novels set in the Deep South; stories sprinkled with sunshine, suspense, and secrets.
A former TV news anchor, Lauren adores flavored coffee, local book stores, and anywhere she can stick her toes in the sand. Her big loves are her family, paying it forward, and true-blue friends. Check out her website at www.laurenclarkbooks.com.
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5280308.Lauren_Clark
https://twitter.com/ - !/LaurenClark_Bks        
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lauren-Clark/235315706518284
BLURB:
Travel writer Julia Sullivan lives life in fast-forward. She jet sets to Europe and the Caribbean with barely a moment to blink or sleep. But too many mishaps and missed deadlines have Julia on the verge of being fired.
With a stern warning, and unemployment looming, she's offered one last chance to rescue her career. Julia embarks on an unlikely journey to the ‘Heart of Dixie’—Eufaula, Alabama—home to magnificent mansions, sweet tea, and the annual Pilgrimage.
Julia arrives, soon charmed by the lovely city and her handsome host, but her stay is marred by a shocking discovery. Can Julia's story save her career, Eufaula, and the annual Pilgrimage? 
EXCERPT
“But, I have plans. Every night next week. Tickets to the Met, a fundraiser, a gallery opening, and I have book club on Monday.” I don’t mention the Filene’s trip I’d planned. Or the romantic date I’ve been promising Andrew, my neglected boyfriend of four years.
David waves a hand to dismiss it all. “Marietta can handle the magazine-related responsibilities.” From the top drawer of his desk he produces an airline ticket and a manila folder with my name on it. He sets them on the edge of his desk. Something I can’t decipher plays on his lips.
I keep my voice even. “What about Bali?” I had planned to leave for the South Pacific a week from Friday. “It’s on my calendar. It’s been on there…”    
David shakes his head. “Not anymore.”
The words wound me like a thousand bee stings.
“Alabama,” David repeats.
My face grows hot. He’s plucked me off a plum assignment without a thought to my ability and my schedule. My new boss is sending me to God knows where and he looks perfectly content.
“If that’s my next assignment,” I sputter, “I’d rather…I’d rather dance naked!”
The announcement comes out much louder than I intend and reverberates through the room. Dolores probably has her ear pressed to the door, but the phrase bounces off my boss like a cotton ball.
David smothers a chuckle. “Suit yourself.”   Lauren will be awarding a $25 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour. Be sure to click the graphic below so you can find more posts!!

An Interview with Lauren Clark

Hi Everyone!! I have the lovely Lauren Clark here today! I'm super excited and already downloaded her book so I can try it out!
Hi! Thanks so much for coming today. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Lauren Clark writes contemporary novels set in the Deep South; stories sprinkled with sunshine, suspense, and secrets. A former TV news anchor, Lauren adores flavored coffee, local book stores, and anywhere she can stick her toes in the sand. Her big loves are her family, paying it forward, and true-blue friends. Check out her website at www.laurenclarkbooks.com.
Tell us a bit about your book.
Travel writer Julia Sullivan lives life in fast-forward. She jet sets to Europe and the Caribbean with barely a moment to blink or sleep. But too many mishaps and missed deadlines have Julia on the verge of being fired. With a stern warning, and unemployment looming, she's offered one last chance to rescue her career. Julia embarks on an unlikely journey to the ‘Heart of Dixie’—Eufaula, Alabama—home to magnificent mansions, sweet tea, and the annual Pilgrimage. Julia arrives, soon charmed by the lovely city and her handsome host, but her stay is marred by a shocking discovery. Can Julia's story save her career, Eufaula, and the annual Pilgrimage? 
Is this part of a series?  Not yet! I’m toying with the idea of bringing Julia back for another book, but we’ll see what readers say first!
What did you find the hardest part of writing it to be? 
I began writing Dixieabout five years ago. I’d put it aside when I decided to stay home with my children. Picking it back up again and delving in was tough!  I had to get to know all of my characters again, revisit the city’s history, and decide how to move the story forward and make it better!
What was your favorite part? 
I used to live near Eufaula and went to the Pilgrimage several times, so it was really fun to “revisit” the city’s history from the 1800s and imagine what it must have been like for the first settlers to live there and watch the area grow and change. I spent a lot of time researching online, at the library, and in books that I have at home.
Rate your story in terms of steaminess
1= Iced Sweet Tea     10 =  Molten Chocolate Lava CakeDixieis a 3, as Shug and Julia are in the very beginning of their relationship. At the outset, they are each dating other people and have to choose whether or not to end those relationships. If there’s a sequel, I can really see Dixie 2 being an 8 or better!
Who is your favorite romance author? 
I’m such an eclectic reader and love many authors – Emily Giffin, Juliette Sobanet (Kissed in Paris, Sleeping with Paris) Sophie Kinsella, Alice Hoffman, and Audrey Niffenegger did a great job with The Time Traveler’s Wife. I also just finished El James’ Fifty Shades of Grey….steamy!! I used to love Nicholas Sparks until several bookstore employees told me that he was really arrogant and dismissive to them during book signings. Such a shame, because he’s talented.
What is your favorite romance book or series?
Although it might be an unusual pick, James Patterson’s Suzanne’s Diary for Nicholasis fabulous! I remember being on a long airplane ride to California and another woman was reading it at the same time. During the flight, we checked in with each other several times…”What chapter are you on?” By the time the jet landed, we were BOTH in tears!I also will admit that I loved the Twilight series. I am in the Jacob camp, though!
Who is your favorite romance character? If you could go on a date with that person, what would you do? Details please! *wink*
I’d love to meet Rhett Butler--who doesn’t love a scoundrel? Scarlett was crazy for pining after Ashley Wilkes (boring!) For a date, I’d love to dress up, ride in a horse-drawn carriage, and dance for hours at one of the many lavish balls in Gone with the Wind. Rhett is dashing and handsome—a man’s man who wasn’t afraid to say what he thought or go after what he wanted in life. I imagine he’d be charming and funny—and unlike Ashley—quite proficient in the romance department!!
Boxers or Briefs?   
BOXERS, please for the love of GOD!
What is next for you? 
I am researching for my next novel, The Pie Lab. The setting will include the real restaurant (of the same name) in Greensboro, Alabama. For this novel, the story will follow a girl who’s gone off to a big city (like Atlanta or New York) and vows NEVER to come home. She’s forced to return to Greensboro, though, when her romantic relationship falls apart. Since she’s burned a lot of bridges, it will be interesting to see how she makes amends.  The Pie Lab, on its own, is a great concept, as the business offers on the job training and the owners are very active in the community. Added bonus…the pies are delicious! The Pie Lab has been featured in Southern Living and The New York Times.
What were your first impressions of each other?
Julia – I thought Shug Jordan was adorable. He loves his family, Eufaula, and is a guy who fights for what’s right. That’s sexy!Shug – I thought Julia was cute and a total klutz.
What are your favorite parts about each other?
Julia – Shug’s sense of humor.Shug – Julia’s eyes and the way she laughs.
What’s next for you?
Julia – I’m on vacation with Shug in Eufaula.Shug – I bought property in the historic district and am building a house. 
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Lauren Clark writes contemporary novels set in the Deep South; stories sprinkled with sunshine, suspense, and secrets.
A former TV news anchor, Lauren adores flavored coffee, local book stores, and anywhere she can stick her toes in the sand. Her big loves are her family, paying it forward, and true-blue friends. Check out her website at www.laurenclarkbooks.com.
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5280308.Lauren_Clark
https://twitter.com/ - !/LaurenClark_Bks        
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lauren-Clark/235315706518284
BLURB:
Travel writer Julia Sullivan lives life in fast-forward. She jet sets to Europe and the Caribbean with barely a moment to blink or sleep. But too many mishaps and missed deadlines have Julia on the verge of being fired.
With a stern warning, and unemployment looming, she's offered one last chance to rescue her career. Julia embarks on an unlikely journey to the ‘Heart of Dixie’—Eufaula, Alabama—home to magnificent mansions, sweet tea, and the annual Pilgrimage.
Julia arrives, soon charmed by the lovely city and her handsome host, but her stay is marred by a shocking discovery. Can Julia's story save her career, Eufaula, and the annual Pilgrimage? 
EXCERPT
“But, I have plans. Every night next week. Tickets to the Met, a fundraiser, a gallery opening, and I have book club on Monday.” I don’t mention the Filene’s trip I’d planned. Or the romantic date I’ve been promising Andrew, my neglected boyfriend of four years.
David waves a hand to dismiss it all. “Marietta can handle the magazine-related responsibilities.” From the top drawer of his desk he produces an airline ticket and a manila folder with my name on it. He sets them on the edge of his desk. Something I can’t decipher plays on his lips.
I keep my voice even. “What about Bali?” I had planned to leave for the South Pacific a week from Friday. “It’s on my calendar. It’s been on there…”    
David shakes his head. “Not anymore.”
The words wound me like a thousand bee stings.
“Alabama,” David repeats.
My face grows hot. He’s plucked me off a plum assignment without a thought to my ability and my schedule. My new boss is sending me to God knows where and he looks perfectly content.
“If that’s my next assignment,” I sputter, “I’d rather…I’d rather dance naked!”
The announcement comes out much louder than I intend and reverberates through the room. Dolores probably has her ear pressed to the door, but the phrase bounces off my boss like a cotton ball.
David smothers a chuckle. “Suit yourself.”   Lauren will be awarding a $25 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour. Be sure to click the graphic below so you can find more posts!!

Tasty Tuesday

Welcome to Tasty Tuesday!!! So, what supernatural creature do you think he is? Yummy isn't he? I think its the tattoo... I don't have a snippet for you today because I'm on a new WIP and don't want to give away any spoiler! (I know *gasp* I'm horrible) But you'll get one next week from me!!!



But for some good ones, try out our other Tasty Tuesdays!!! Lia Davis Tempeste O’Riley Divinities

Manic Monday Updates

Happy Monday!! I hope all is well. There's a lot going on in my writing world so I'll just get write to it! Today, I'm happy to announce, A NEW SERIES!! Yep! Even more from me! But this time, I'm not alone. My BFF, Lia Davis, and I are co-authoring a four book series called Keys of Fate!! I can't go too much into each book and the characters, but I will say, I'm SO freaking excited about it. The first book will be out Spring 2013! Whoot!



When an angel falls in love, they also fall from grace. As the world evolves, the angels are dying and four angels must fall to earth and find the keys of fate to save their people…and humanity.


Waiting for:


Right now I'm waiting for new swag to arrive for my Dust of My Wings packages. So as soon as that comes in, we can gave some fancy giveaways.I'm also waiting on a new cover for a book that will be out in December, Santa's Executive (Holiday, Montana Book 2)
Working on:


Revisions for Dust of My Wings. This should be in my editors happy hands by tonight if all goes well LOL. That means we're one step closer!Plotting for the end of Enforcer's Redemption (Redwood Pack book 4, Adam's Book).

Writing:


Charmed Spirits (Holiday Montana, Book 1). I'm almost midway through and hope to be through in the next two weeks or so with the draft. Its only a 30k novel, so it won't take as long as the others.Enforcer's Redemption (Redwood Pack 4). I'm just starting this one. I've had the plot and back story down for ages and now I'm diving into Adam's world. If I start to sob, just let me go.

Other:


I've joined Pinterest and made boards for each of my books and series. Come on over and tell me what you think.
And that's about it! Go on over to other Manic Monday Updates with: Lia Davis , Lacey Wolfe , Fated Desires,   and  The Divinites

Trinity Bound: Six Sentence Sunday #41

From Book 3 in the Redwood Pack series, Trinity Bound.



Hannah shivered in Reed’s arms and he held tighter, trying to keep her warm. The temperature outside had dropped dramatically and slowly seeped into the small room. Her little body refused to stay heated in the dank basement. Her cold curves snuggled up to him, as he tried to infuse his warmth into her. His body temperature might be higher than a normal human’s, but no matter what he did, she just couldn’t stay warm.Hannah sneezed in her sleep, jerking herself awake. 



Thanks so much for stopping by y'all!!
You can find it on:
AmazonBarnes&NobleARe