Victoria Adams's Blog, page 83

Sunrise - Flash Fiction on this week's Wednesday Briefs #WedBriefs

Welcome to this week's Wednesday Briefs.

This is a raw (not put passed by cps) m/f time travel romance. It's a 500 to 1,000 word excerpt inspired by "I’ve finally caught a break", "You’re a guaranteed ticking time bomb." Chapters 1 through 5 are available on the free read tab at top of blog.Sunrise 48Sian covered her mouth with her hand to stifle to an anguished gasp erupting from her throat. The professor thought J'dol would have to leave. She didn't want him to. She needed him. Oh, how cruel life can be. She rubbed her forehead. I've finally caught a break and found the man I want to spend my life with and he's from several hundred years in to the future. What's so wrong with falling in love with the boy next door?Aunt Mixy frowned as she turned to speak to the professor. "Why do you think J'dol has to leave? I mean, how? How do you think…I mean." She huffed. "Oh, I don't know what I mean.""I didn't mean it that he…I certainly didn't want to imply…it's just that—well—" The professor pointed at J'dol. "Well, "You’re a guaranteed ticking time bomb."Purple brushed a stray hair off her face. "I think I understand what the professor means. And he doesn't mean to seem bad or that he's condemning J'dol. But what about his identity? What if J'dol gets sick? How will you get him to a doctor? What about a job?  He's going to have to prove who he is and somehow I don’t' think too many other people are going to be accepting of his explanation of being from the future. Aah!"A vicious crack of thunder made everyone jump."Wow. That sounded close." Sian looked a J'dol. His eyes were wide. His knuckles were white from the tension in his fists. "Hey." She rubbed his arm and smiled. "Let's go inside. Never too safe to be near a tree or water during a potential storm.""No, I think I must leave." The professor glanced at his watch then at Purple. "Can you please drive me back home?""Certainly." Purple jumped up from her seat and stepped closer to Sian. She gave her a brief hug. "Don't worry. It will all work out. I know it will.""Guess I should be going to." Aunt Mixy stood and followed her friend, Purple, across the deck and down the stairs.Kiry giggled. "I'm just going so you love birds can be alone." She elbowed Sian in the ribs. "If you know what I mean."Sian chuckled. "Kiry, you are certifiable.""Call me," Kiry yelled over her shoulder. "If you're not too busy. You know, doing the bow-chicka-bow-wow." She pushed out her butt and bounced it up and down. "You know you know what I mean." Straightening up, she pulled open her car door, plopped onto her seat then waved good-bye as she pulled out of the yard.J'dol raised an eyebrow. "Bow-chicka-what?"A strong breeze rustled the leaves on the tree. Sian rubbed her arms. "Brr. Feel the temperature drop. Storm's getting closer. Let's get inside."As the door closed behind J'dol, he asked, "What is bow-chicka – something?""Bow-chicka-bow-wow."He sounded out each word. "Bow. Chicka. Bow. Wow.""That's right. Now smash them together.""Bow-chicka-bow-wow." He chuckled. "That is fun to say. It is like tickling my tongue." He followed Sian to the living room and sat on the couch net to her. "What does it mean?""It's slang for doing the nasty. Doing the deed." Sian sighed. "Which is no help explaining it to you. It's slang for making love. Having sex. Guess the big word would be – fornicating." She shuddered. "But I always hated the sound of that word. Makes it sound so clinical and a bit dirty.""Kiry thinks we will make love?"Sian glanced at the floor. "Kiry is a big-hearted, wonderful friend who thrives on romance and wants me to be happy."J'dol wrapped her hands around hers. "I want you to be happy."

Now onto the other flashers. 
Go to this link Wednesday Brief authors  or go to individual authors

M.A. ChurchKazy ReedCarol Pedroso - www.cazpedroso.wordpress.comLM BrownAvery DawesJon KeysJohayanCia NordwellRavon SilviusNephylimShelly SchulzElyzabeth VaLeyJC WallaceTali SpencerJulie Lynn Hayes



What's Coming Up in September on Victoria's Pages of Romance 11 – Lori M. Jones – Renaissance of the Heart12 – Anne B. Cole – Soul Entwined13 - Weekend Writing Warriors17 - Flash Fiction and Book Hooks19 – 22 – Fall into Romance Blog Hop24 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction 27 - Weekend Writing Warriors

Weekend Writing Warriors and A Guy and A Girl - Great combination #8sunday

Welcome to another weekend of Weekend Writing Warriors. My 8 sentence snippet this week is from my latest release NA contemporary romance – A Guy and A Girl. Scene Set – Chelsea's response to Todd's pleas.

"I'm not sure which word you didn't understand, so let me try one more time. Go. Away." She turned and reached for the library door."You're going back to...to him!""His name's Hunter and we're working on an assignment. Not doing it in the library."  With regal slowness, the door closed behind her.
Tagline
Lies, deceits and secrets - not a good way to begin a relationship.

Blurb
After an ugly past forced Hunter Connolly to escape to Europe, the talented hockey player is back in North America and determined to land a position with a professional team. But he can’t hide from his past forever, especially when his beautiful classmate, Chelsea, forces him to reexamine his life. Soon, hockey is not his first priority anymore.
Chelsea Henderson is a bright co-ed working towards her dream of being a professional dancer. She forms a unique friendship with one of her father’s newest recruits and would love nothing more than to take it to the next level. However, there’s just one small problem. He doesn’t know she’s his coach’s daughter.
Amid the deceptions, danger lurks closer than they could ever imagine. Will fate contrive to rip the young lovers apart? Or will Hunter and Chelsea have their shot at love?


What people are saying about – A Guy and A Girl
5 Stars - I loved this book...I think that it was an awesome story. It was interesting on how everything came about as well as some surprises on who was doing what. I liked how the couple had issues that would be real life issues as well. Very well written, can't wait to read more books by Victoria as well as maybe some more in relation to characters in the book.

5 Stars - What a great romance. Fast paced. Chock full of tension. Little bit of hockey Little bit of dance. Lots of love.

5 Stars - I'm not really sure where to start with this book. The story took so many twists and turns. The suspense in the first part of the book was good, and the twist, I didn't see coming. I expected the story to end when the conflict resolved itself, but I enjoyed that the author chose to continue the development of the relationship between Hunter and Chelsea. I think a lot of stories are written so that the happily ever after comes right after the conflict, but in this story, the reader is drawn through more than one conflict, it shows the growth of each character and a progression of a relationship that is more like real life. Think about it, in our real life relationships, most of us don't go through one crazy experience and then BAM...everything works out. I think that's what made the story so real to me. All the challenges faced by Hunter and Chelsea helped to build and strengthen the relationship. The time frame may have been a little short for the amount of things going on, but that didn't affect my opinion of the story. I was still able to become invested in the story and enjoy it.

Buy Links – Exclusively at - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L2GRD1U

Link back to Weekend Writing Warriors - www.wewriwa.com

What's Coming Up in Septemberon Victoria's Pages of Romance

10 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction11 – Lori M. Jones – Renaissance of the Heart12 – Anne B. Cole – Soul Entwined13 - Weekend Writing Warriors17 - Flash Fiction and Book Hooks19 – 22 – Fall into Romance Blog Hop24 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction 27 - Weekend Writing Warriors

M.S. Spencer's Adventure Romance - WHIRLWIND ROMANCE

What do pirates, princes, Puritans, and propaganda have in common? Lacey Delahaye, forager and jelly maker, finds out in this romantic suspense set in the western Caribbean. 
Whirlwind RomanceSecret Cravings Publishing, 9/2/201489,000 words; M/F; 3 flames; Adventure/Romance
Paraiso, the island in Whirlwind Romance, is based on a real island in the western Caribbean that I discovered—how else?—mucking around on the internet. Called Providencia, it forms an archipelago with two other islands, San Andres and Santa Catalina, and five uninhabited atolls. Currently under the Colombian flag, it has been the ruled by an incredible variety of groups, from Henry Morgan the notorious buccaneer, to Spanish Conquistadors, Dutch traders, even English Puritans. Now part of the UN's Seaflower Biosphere, it sports the third largest coral reef in the world. To reach it isn't easy, which is why it's not well known in tourist circles.Its rich and odd history made it an intriguing backdrop for my story, but please be aware that most of the cultural and geographic description of Paraiso in Whirlwind Romance, not to mention the characters, is purely fictional.Blurb:In the aftermath of a hurricane, Lacey Delahaye finds herself marooned on the Gulf coast of Florida with a mysterious man. They are immediately drawn to each other, but before Armand can confess his identity, they are kidnapped and taken far from civilization to a tiny, remarkable island in the western Caribbean. With the help of her son Crispin, a small, but proud young boy named Inigo, and a cadre of extraordinary characters, Lacey and Armand must confront pirates, power-mad ideologues, and palace intrigue if they are to restore the once idyllic tropical paradise to its former serenity and find lasting happiness.

Excerpt (G) Tommy's Tree HouseShe climbed quietly, hand over hand. As she reached the last board, a soft, but menacing voice purred, “Well, my sweet, you’ve found me.”Okay, here’s where we find out if he’s a bad guy. “Give me a hand up, will you?”Other than a slight intake of breath, he complied without a word. Lacey’s head rose up over the floor to find a cubicle lit by a small pencil torch and cluttered with toy guns, candy bar wrappers, and crushed Dr. Pepper cans. And Armand. Who took up most of the rest of the space. He still held her hand, but he had stopped pulling her. “Where did you plan to sit, on my lap?”At least he’s toned down the threat level. “Or you could come down. I don’t think Tommy Forster allows uninvited guests in his palace.”His jaw dropped. “Palace?” After a brief interval, he said, “Oh. I see. I can’t.”“Can’t what?”“Come down.”“Why not?”“I…I…think I reinjured the ankle. I can’t put any weight on it.”Lacey toyed with the idea of leaving him there for little Tommy, but his mother would have been appalled. “All right, just a minute.” She climbed down and went back to her house, grabbed a coil of rope from the shed and sprinted back up the street. “Armand?”“At your service.”“I’m bringing up a rope. I want you to tie it to something, then you can shimmy down without using your feet.”“Um, what about when I get to the ground?”How much did he say he weighed? Twelve stone? Lacey calculated swiftly. Must be over a hundred sixty pounds. “I’ll try to ease you down.” She threw the coil into the darkness and backed down the tree. A few minutes later the rope tumbled down and Armand emerged. “For the record, this was my worst event in public school.” He held on for dear life and inched down the rope.Five minutes later he’d descended a foot. “Come on Armand—hurry it up.”“I’m doing my best.” By dint of a lot of swearing and some wild swinging, Armand made it into Lacey’s waiting arms. He sat on the ground, legs splayed out in front, panting. “Now what?”Lacey hadn’t really thought that far. If he’s a fugitive, I can’t trust him. And I have no way of contacting the police. Maybe this wasn’t such a great idea. “Er, I guess we’d better get you back home. Then you can tell me what this is all about.” He didn’t argue, but when he tried to stand, he fell over. She considered the situation. “What we need is some kind of transport. What was that thing the Indians used?” Lacey cast about for the word.“Travois?”“That’s it—aren’t you clever. A sort of triangular thingy to carry a wounded man. Made of logs and deerskins.” She stopped, not, as one might assume, due to the lack of readily available logs and skins, but because of the picture in her mind of an injured warrior lying spread-eagled—bare-chested, sexy, bravely enduring the pain. Wow. Armand didn’t seem to notice her heightened color and pointed at the carport across the street. “Could we use that little red wagon?”She followed his gaze. Story of my life—instead of Geronimo I get Ralphie. “That’ll do. Wait here.”“Yes, I think I shall.” Armand kept a straight face. Lacey brought the little wagon to him, and he lay down in it, arms and legs hanging over the sides. “You’ll have to lift up your extremities if this is going to work.” And so, with Armand looking like an upside down turtle and Lacey with tears of laughter streaming down her face, they staggered along the road to her house.


****
Buy links:SCP: http://store.secretcravingspublishing.com/index.php?main_page=book_info&cPath=4&products_id=934Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Whirlwind-Romance-M-S-Spencer-ebook/dp/B00N105I4E/ARe: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-whirlwindromance-1605591-153.htmlBookstrand: http://www.bookstrand.com/whirlwind-romanceAbout the AuthorAlthough she has lived or traveled in every continent except Antarctica and Australia (bucket list), M. S. Spencer has spent the last thirty years mostly in Washington, D.C. as a librarian, Congressional staff assistant, speechwriter, editor, birdwatcher, kayaker, policy wonk, non-profit director and parent. She has two fabulous grown children, and currently divides her time between the Gulf coast of Florida and a tiny village in Maine.Ms. Spencer has published nine romance novels. The first two, Lost in His Arms and Lost and Found, were published by Red Rose Publishing. The other six—Losers Keepers, Triptych, Artful Dodging: The Torpedo Factory Murders, Mai Tais and Mayhem: Murder at Mote Marine (a Sarasota Romance, Lapses of Memory, and the Mason's Mark —were published by Secret Cravings. Whirlwind Romance, her ninth, was released September 2014.Contacts:Blog: http://msspencertalespinner.blogspot.comORhttp://bit.ly/1aBzraTFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/msspencertalespinnerTwitter: www.twitter.com/msspencerauthor
GoodReads:http://www.goodreads.com/msspencer
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/msspencerauthor/



What's Coming Up in September on Victoria's Pages of Romance 6 - Weekend Writing Warriors
10 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction11 – Lori M. Jones – Renaissance of the Heart12 – Anne B. Cole – Soul Entwined13 - Weekend Writing Warriors17 - Flash Fiction and Book Hooks19 – 22 – Fall into Romance Blog Hop24 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction 27 - Weekend Writing Warriors 

Book Blast Kristy Feltenberger Gillespie, Even in Death: A short Story Collection

Title: Even In Death: A Short Story Collection
Author: Kristy Feltenberger GillespiePublished: August 4th, 2014Word Count: approx. 40,000Genre: Short StoryAge Recommendation: 15+
Synopsis: Even In Death, a collection of ten short stories, explores the thin line between love and hate; extreme emotions even death cannot destroy.Julie wants nothing more than to receive a flower bouquet from the hometown veterinarian. However, in “A Flower Story,” flowers are delivered long after a person is alive to smell them.After purchasing their dream home, Sara and David feel truly blessed. Unfortunately, the couple soon discovers they’ve inherited a wicked curse. In fact, in “What’s Really There,” the former residents’ spirits refuse to move on.In the title story, on the anniversary of his fiancés’ death, Mark realizes that he can see and communicate with spirits, including Amy’s. Can Mark and Amy’s love survive even in death?“A Flower Story,” “What’s Really There,” and “Even In Death,” as well as the other seven stories in the collection are rife with emotion that will linger well after the last page.
Kristy Feltenberger Gillespie lives in Warrenton, Virginia with her husband, two cats, and three dachshunds. She’s a middle school counselor, graduate student at Longwood University, (pursuing a degree in School Library Media) blogger, short story and Young Adult novel writer. When she’s not working, she’s traveling or dreaming of traveling. She’s been on several cross country road trips with her mom. In fact, Hawaii and Alaska are the only states she hasn’t been to.Amazon Author Page | Facebook | Twitter| GoodReads | Blog
~ Excerpt from “Scrambled Egg” ~When Angelica adjusts her sunglasses, Olivia notices her best friend’s black eye. “Oh, sweetie, what happened?” Olivia reaches across the sticky table for Angelica’s hands but she moves them quickly; as if Olivia’s touch is a flame that will burn her beyond recognition.
Angelica chews on her bottom lip. “Nothing.”
“I’m worried about you.”
“There’s nothing to worry about, Olivia.” She separates the ‘O’ from the ‘livia.’
A spunky orange haired waitress arrives at their table. Her name tag reads “Bad Susie” with a little devil sticker next to it. “Can I take your order?”
“Plain coffee, please,” Olivia says.
“Same here,” Angelica says.
Susie places a hand on her hip. “You sure you don’t want pancakes? Eggs and toast?”
They shake their heads.
Bad Susie tilts her head, focusing on Angelica. “You’re worth so much more.”
“What?” Angelica winces.
“You’re wearing sunglasses indoors, long sleeves and jeans, and it’s like eighty degrees outside. And your makeup is only partially covering your bruises. Obviously your boyfriend is a beater. Just know you’re worth more than that.” Before Angelica has a chance to respond, Susie moves to the next table.


What's Coming Up in September on Victoria's Pages of Romance
5 – M.S. Spencer – Whirlwind Romance6 - Weekend Writing Warriors10 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction11 – Lori M. Jones – Renaissance of the Heart12 – Anne B. Cole – Soul Entwined13 - Weekend Writing Warriors17 - Flash Fiction and Book Hooks19 – 22 – Fall into Romance Blog Hop24 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction 27 - Weekend Writing Warriors

Spotlight on Karen-Anne Stewart's Ash to Steele

IF YOU ARE HERE FOR WEDNESDAY BRIEFS - PLEASE SCROLL DOWN
Title: Ash to Steele
Author: Karen-Anne Stewart
Publisher: Karen-Anne Stewart
Pages: 342
Genre: New Adult Romance
Format: Paperback/KindlePurchase at AMAZON










Emma

Who I am and all I believe is marred with just one glance into angry, steel blue eyes. He seems to control my air, my ability to breathe. He makes me crave everything I know is a sin. Pure becomes tainted and lines are blurred. It's my fault; I'm the one who isn't strong enough. I've been damaged...broken. Breck's words haunt me...'There's a consequence for every choice you make.'

Breck

I've had so many women I can't even remember over half of their names, but none of them are mine; I make damn sure of that. I take what I desire and never look back. I don't need or want anyone, ever...not until I met Emma. Those eyes bore into what's left of my soul and her touch sears me, weakens me. I want to hate her for that. She is my ruin...my sweetest hell.
Book Excerpt:
Angrily opening my eyes, I slam my palms against the floor, not wanting to think of last night, of Emma, or how beautiful she looked without make-up and wearing those old, torn jeans and worn-out jacket.  I wanted to kiss her.  That goes against all my rules.  No kissing, no personal shit, just sex.  Lots of sex. Seeing her bare skin through the holes in those jeans made me thirst for sex.  I could taste her.  Her phantom flavor bursts on my tongue even now.  There was nothing remarkable about the modest amount of skin I saw.  Hell, the holes weren’t even near intimate areas, but seeing her tan skin made me want to see all of her, lying on the bed for me.  Just for me.  That’s another cardinal sin, none of them are mine, I make damn sure of that. 
   There’s an unending supply of women who are willing to follow the rules and service my needs, so thoughts of Emma getting in my way doesn’t make any sense.  Only pansy asses like Jason believe in love at first site, swearing that’s what happened between him and Jess.  That’s bullshit.  Love is bullshit.   Emma is different, possibly innocent, or at least more innocent than the others.  Maybe that’s what’s screwing with my head.  I’ve grown too accustomed to women who are anything but innocent. Debased.  That’s what I prefer, what I’m used to, what I need.  There’s only one way to get her poison out of me…I will make her like the others.
Giveaway Details:Karen-Anne is giving away a $25 Amazon Gift Card & one Kindle copy of Ash to Steele!Terms & Conditions:By entering the giveaway, you are confirming you are at least 18 years old.One winner will be chosen via Rafflecopter to receive one $25 Amazon Gift Certificate or Paypal Cash and one copy of Ash to Steele delivered by the Kindle store.This giveaway begins July 7 and ends on September 26.Winner will be contacted via email on Monday, September 29.Winner has 48 hours to reply.Good luck everyone!
a Rafflecopter giveaway



What's Coming Up in September on Victoria's Pages of Romance 4 - Kristy Feltenberger Gillespie - Even in Death: A Short Story Collection5 – M.S. Spencer – Whirlwind Romance6 - Weekend Writing Warriors10 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction11 – Lori M. Jones – Renaissance of the Heart12 – Anne B. Cole – Soul Entwined13 - Weekend Writing Warriors17 - Flash Fiction and Book Hooks19 – 22 – Fall into Romance Blog Hop24 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction 27 - Weekend Writing Warriors

Victoria is back to flashing her Wednesday Briefs #WedBriefs

 Welcome to this week's Wednesday Briefs.

 This is an m/f time travel romance. It's a 500 to 1,000 word excerpt inspired by have a game of Marco Polo in your story, plus the photos below. Chapters 1 through 5 are available on the free read tab at top of blog.



Sunrise 47

J'dol looked at the thickening storm clouds and shuddered. In the few weeks he'd been here, there had been a couple of storms and both reminded him of the moment he'd been ripped from his time and dropped on a deck in this century.Sian placed a hand on his arm. "What's the matter?"He nodded his head towards the dark sky. "It looks the same as the storm that brought me here." He grabbed and hugged her to his body. "I don't want to go back."Sian rested her forehead on J'dol's rock hard chest. "I don’t want you to leave." She snuggled closer. "I wish the storms would just disappear and fluffy, like kittens, clouds would float on by.""We could lay on a meadow and look for shapes in the sky.""I'd love that. We could have a picnic and just ignore the world." She chuckled. "One day I saw a cloud that looked just like Bart Simpson.""Who…or what is a Bart Simpson?""A cartoon character. But I bet that doesn’t help. Forget it.""Are you two going to join us or get a room?" Kiry's shouted.With great reluctance, J'dol released Sian and returned to his seat. Sian settled on the chair next to him.The sensation of her body pressed up against his began to fade. He fought to keep the feeling in his memory. If he was pulled back into his time, he'd have one glorious moment to relive. The awareness of the curves of her body embraced against him. The aroma of her filling his nostrils. The growing urges in his body, nudging him that this woman was the one meant for him."Marco!""Polo!"J'dol blinked and looked at Sian. Her face was light with laughter."Remember that?" She smiled at her friend, Kiry. "That was hilarious. We must have played that for hours. Just the two of us."J'dol glanced between Sian and Kiry. "You know Marco Polo?""Uh?" Kiry shrugged. "We know this century's version of him. Not the dude from the thirteenth or maybe it was the fourteenth century. You know, the guy who went to China."J'dol pursed his lips. "I do no think that I understand."Sian tapped his arm. He turned to face her. The softness of her smile made her want to wrap her in his arms and carry her off so they could be alone. He flinched. That's what he wanted? To be alone with Sian. No friends or family. No worrying about whether he'd suddenly be thrust back into his time. Just the two of them."Marco Polo in our time is a children's game. You can play it in a pool or lake. It's like hide and seek. Do you know that game?"J'dol nodded. "Even in my time, children play that game. It teaches hunting and survival skills. Can the hider, or the prey, stay hidden from the hunter."A frown passed over Sian's face. Anger tapped J'dol. He'd made her sad. Or maybe confused. Neither was good."Never thought of the game from that angle. To us, it's simply a game." Sian shrugged. "Anyway, back to Marco Polo. So, one person…" She rambled on explaining the game. Kiry interjected fun moments when she and Sian played together. J'dol was happy Sian had had such a relaxed and joyful childhood. Not like his niece and nephew, who had no longer had a life to live. Death should never visit a child."Anything like your version of the game?" Sian smiled.J'dol shook his head. "Children do not play Marco Polo. Warriors do."A tense giggle erupted from Sian. "I think I'm almost scared to learn what this is.""At evening time, when we are sitting around a fire, we might play this. Usually only when we know we are safe and at a special occasion. Like the first kill of a young warrior. Or the birth of a son.""Not at the birth of a daughter?" Sian raised an eyebrow."It would be wrong. Disrespectful." J'dol looked at Sian's friends and family seat around the table. "One must always treat the birth of a female baby with reverence." Sian patted his arm. Tingles of heat exploded where she'd touched him. "I'm sorry I interrupted you. Continue. You and your team are sitting around a campfire.""We pour small glasses full of spirits. Someone shouts, Marco. The others reply, Polo. And everybody drinks." Happiness mixed with homesickness bubbled in him."Who wins?" asked Sian.J'dol shrugged. "No one. We just drink.""The future's version of a frat party." Kiry giggled."Professor?" J'dol looked at the learned scientist. "How do I get to stay in this time?" He placed his hand on Sian's arm. "I very much would like to stay."The professor sneezed then removed and polished his glasses. Adjusting them back on his face, he locked gazes with J'dol and in a sad voice said, "I don't think that's possible."J'dol's gut clenched.
 Now onto the other flashers. 
Go to this link Wednesday Brief authors  or go to individual authors
MA Church Chris T. KatCarol PedrosoCia Nordwell Taylin ClavelliAvery Matthias Williamson JC Wallace Ravon SilviusSarah HayesRenee Stevens Jim Dunaway Shelly Schulz LM BrownElyzabeth VaLey  Rob ColtonTali SpencerNephylimJulie Lynn Hayes


What's Coming Up in September on Victoria's Pages of Romance 4 - Kristy Feltenberger Gillespie - Even in Death: A Short Story Collection5 – M.S. Spencer – Whirlwind Romance6 - Weekend Writing Warriors10 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction11 – Lori M. Jones – Renaissance of the Heart12 – Anne B. Cole – Soul Entwined13 - Weekend Writing Warriors17 - Flash Fiction and Book Hooks19 – 22 – Fall into Romance Blog Hop24 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction 27 - Weekend Writing Warriors

Spotlight on Adriana Kraft's Just Released -- Willow Smoke, Rider's Up, Book 3

When the chips are down, there’s nobody there.
Daisy Matthews grew up on the streets of Chicago, and if she learned anything, it was that she could count on no one to help her, ever. She knows she has to tough it out, protect herself, and when necessary, protect anyone she cares about. All by herself. No one else will do it for her.My husband and I have loved writing Daisy and her story. We first introduced her in Cassie’s Hope (Riders Up, Book One) – she’s the teenage waif in the group home where Cassie worked before she went back to training horses. We’ve known so many kids like her across our social service and academic careers. There’s a special kind of resilience that comes from growing up that way; kids who don’t develop it probably don’t make it, and we’ve known some of those, too. She doesn’t know who her father is. Her mother, who died of an overdose when Daisy was little, was a prostitute. Fortunately for Daisy, her rock-solid grandmother took her in, but that grandmother died when Daisy was eleven. Unadoptable for whatever reason, she ended up in a group home through her early teenage years, until Cassie and Clint Travers became her foster parents.We’ve dedicated this book to two of our ancestors who faced severe social stigma more than a century ago: my great grandfather, who was born to an unmarried teenage logging camp cook in the Pennsylvania mountains, and my husband’s great grandmother, a quarter-blood Cherokee in an era when the family tried to hide that information out of shame.Maybe we gave Daisy an extra boost when we paired her with a handsome wealthy hunk in his early forties, but we think she deserves a bang-up happy ending for her determination, grit, and courage in the face of present day social stigma. We hope you’ll agree.
Willow Smoke Riders Up, Book ThreeSeptember 1, 2014, B&B PublishingISBN: 978-0-9907476-0-4ASIN: B00N0DH13IRomantic Suspense, 87,000 wordsHeat rating: three flames (explicit sex, m/f)
REVIEW
Five stars at Goodreads “…dreams can become reality, love can transcend age… Exciting, engaging and very entertaining story. The character interplay is spot on and the story is extremely well written.” Donna H.

BUY LINK
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N0DH13I
BLURB
When the chips are down, there's nobody there.  Willowy blond Daisy Matthews has survived the Chicago streets with this mantra but is unprepared for the much older Nick Underwood's urgent pursuit.  The wealthy businessman receives a thoroughbred in payment for a bad debt and is thrust into Daisy's world.  She teaches him about horse racing; he teaches her about love.  When Daisy's seamy brother-in-law threatens Nick's safety, she doggedly tries to stop him by herself, but flees to the familiar streets when he attacks. Can Nick find her in time – and if he does, will she still want him?
EXCERPT
“So tell me,” Nick said, “where can I find a horse named RainbowBlaze?"
"RainbowBlaze!" Daisy gasped and glared at him again. "Why? What do you want with her?"
"Damn, you've got to be the most protective woman I've ever encountered. If you must know, she's my horse."
Daisy opened her mouth as if to speak. She glanced quickly at the chestnut mare. "There must be a mistake," she stammered. "RainbowBlaze belongs to Michael Barnes."
Nick crossed his legs and leaned against the stable wall, giving Daisy Matthews a slow satisfied smile. He'd found his horse. And he had a new employee. This could be more interesting than he'd imagined.
Furthermore, being his employee made Matthews safe to be around. He had a firm rule against personal involvements with employees. He flashed a look at the slender woman's nipples that showed faintly through an orange tank top. Didn't she know what she looked like?
Too young. He closed his eyes. He might be old enough to be her father. His eyes sprang open and he appraised her again. Maybe, maybe not.
"The horse did belong to Michael Barnes." Fright flickered across the blonde's face and quickly disappeared behind a steely gaze. "Mike's fallen on bad economic times. Turned out he couldn't pay his debts. Showed up at my office with a bill of sale for some damn race horse and begged me to take it to clear what he owed me. Against my better judgment, I agreed." Nick raised his open palms upward. "So, here I am."
Daisy's hands, resting at her sides, curled into fists.
"You look like you'd like to slaughter me for your supper." Nick stood. Ignoring the woman, he pointed at the horse with the oversized socks. "So I take it this is RainbowBlaze." He glanced back over his shoulder at the woman. She gulped and nodded. "Is the horse any good? How much can I get for her?"
Daisy sputtered and Nick suppressed a laugh.
"She's a damn good mare. She'll run her heart out for you, if you treat her right. But she won't work just for anyone."
"Sounds like you've got a thing for my horse, kid."
"Suppose so." Daisy studied the dirt at her feet. "I've known her since she was foaled. Was there to help her mother give birth. I've been there every step of the way when Rainbow was with Cassie Travers, and then when Michael Barnes bought her it was with the understanding that she'd come to Sam's barn and be with me."
When the woman stopped to catch her breath, Nick said, "You didn't answer my question. How much is she worth?"
Daisy shrugged. "Maybe," her voice quaked, "fifty thousand. Maybe more."
"Hmm. Michael said a hundred grand."
He watched the spirit flow out of the young woman. Her glistening eyes grabbed at something inside him that he hadn't experienced for a long time. Not thinking, he reached for her chin.
"That horse," he said softly, "means a lot more to you than a hundred grand, doesn't it?"
ABOUT ADRIANA KRAFT
Adriana Kraft is the pen name for a husband/wife team writing sizzling romantic suspense and erotic romance. The award-winning pair has published over thirty romance novels and novellas to outstanding reviews. Romantic pairings include straight m/f, lesbian, bisexual, ménage and polyamory, in both contemporary and paranormal settings.
ADRIANA KRAFT ON THE WEB
Website: http://adrianakraft.comBlog: http://adrianakraft.com/blog Facebook Page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Adriana-Kraft/182846025133440Twitter http://twitter.com/AdrianaKraft GoodReads http://www.goodreads.com/author/list/1578571.Adriana_KraftShelfari http://www.shelfari.com/adrianakraft Google+ https://plus.google.com/102791537641895264573/postsPinterest http://www.pinterest.com/adrianakraft5/boards/



What's Coming Up in September on Victoria's Pages of Romance 3 – Karen-Anne Stewart – Ashes to Steele3 - Wednesday Briefs4 - Kristy Feltenberger Gillespie - Even in Death: A Short Story Collection5 – M.S. Spencer – Whirlwind Romance6 - Weekend Writing Warriors10 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction11 – Lori M. Jones – Renaissance of the Heart12 – Anne B. Cole – Soul Entwined13 - Weekend Writing Warriors17 - Flash Fiction and Book Hooks19 – 22 – Fall into Romance Blog Hop24 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction 27 - Weekend Writing Warriors

Spotlight on Karen Aldous' The Vineyard

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 It’s been five years, and Lizzie Lambert has decided it’s time to try to make things right with her estranged mother. She’s made a success of things in Cannes, she’s bringing up a lovely little boy on her own, and she’s ready to put the past behind her. But it seems Lizzie’s mother has moved on as well. She’s moved her toyboy – a muscle-bound vintner named Cal – into the family home, and given him the run of the land that was meant to be Lizzie’s inheritance!Cal’s wine business frequently takes him to France, and suddenly wherever Lizzie goes, he’s already there – meddling, giving unsolicited advice, saving her little boy’s life and stealing her heart. But none of this changes the fact that he’s her mother’s lover…
Praise for Karen Aldous'...you must read this wonderful debut from Karen, absolutely great.' - Cometbabesbooks 
'Not since Peter Mayle has anyone captured the essence of Provence and Karen Aldous does it vividly. Settle back with a glass of wine and experience the Vineyard for yourself.' - Elder Park Book Reviews 
'A delightful romantic comedy that tales place amidst the beauty of France, with plenty of wine and laughter.' - cayocosta72
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Excerpt from Chapter One – The Vineyard – Karen Aldous
Kicking off his boots in the back lobby a tall, rugged-looking stranger appeared. He looked, she guessed, early- to mid-thirties. He wandered in like it was his home while she slipped into a seat at the table unacknowledged.
‘Caroline, you don’t have a pair of tweezers I could use do you? I have a splinter,’ he said, speaking to her mother and rubbing the top of his index finger with his other thumb. A glittering wedge of fringe swept over his high forehead as he examined the sore.
‘Yes, in the drawer there,’ her mother pointed to the oak cabinet, ‘the one at the top.’
‘Thanks,’ he nodded casually, moving to the corner and opening the drawer. His hand shuffled around inside and then he lifted the tweezers to his splinter.‘The light isn’t great or my eyesight’s fucked.’ He dug at his finger for a few seconds and then glanced up, arresting Lizzie’s eyes. She felt a heat rise from her feet as his eyes pierced hers. She swallowed hard in an attempt to get her heart back down into its rightful pace.
‘Oh I’m so sorry. Hi. Sorry didn’t mean to intrude.’ Their eyes remained locked for so long it became uncomfortable and Lizzie felt a blush rise to her cheeks. She prayed he hadn’t noticed.
‘Oh Cal, this is my daughter Lizzie,’ her mother broke in. ‘Rather a surprise visit,’ she added, acknowledging the fact, really only to herself.
‘Pleased to meet you Lizzie’ he said, offering his hand to her.She struggled to find breath to reply as her hand automatically lifted to his in response.
‘Hello.’
‘Lizzie, this is Cal. He has a project here for a while.’
Lizzie prized her eyes away from him, seeing her mother’s eyes avert swiftly and her mouth twitch. Peering back she forced a fleeting smile as Cal made a polite nod to depart and she watched as his head butted the door whilst his sultry steel grey eyes failed to steal themselves away. She almost laughed but the room was deathly quiet and she daren’t even breathe in the silence for fear her heart would pound its way out of her chest. Tension crowded the room as he peered back at her mother and she quickly concluded they had something to hide. Lovers possibly?
‘I can’t stop now. See you again soon I hope.’ Cal said, cutting the strained atmosphere as he forced his feet back into his boots before trundling off back through the lobby. Lizzie then breathed out, releasing the blood back to her heart. Here, in the home that she grew up, just a few feet away from her was the most gorgeous man she had ever clapped eyes on. His smile, ripe plum lips revealing just enough of the beautiful set of teeth beneath, was tantalising. Who was he, she wondered. Just her luck if this man was her mother’s boyfriend, lover or husband maybe? Definitely a ‘toy boy’ though. He can’t be any more than thirty five! The thought of her puritanical mother breaking one of her own sacred rules, tut, tut! She sniggered to herself.
About the Author
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 Karen Aldous enjoys village life on the edge of the north-downs in Kent with easy access to the buzz of London. Not only does she love the passive pleasures of reading and writing, she also craves the more active pursuits with her family and friends such as walking, cycling and skiing especially when they involve food and wine!

Karen gets much of her inspiration from her travels and if she had to choose, France, Greece, Switzerland and Italy would be her favourite. However, wherever she goes, she discovers a new character emerges in 'Karen's World'. She likes to write about strong independent women who can direct their own lives - but struggle to control them! And, of course there's always a gorgeous hunk or two!
Author Links
Karen Aldous Amazon Author PageKarenAldousWebsiteGoodreadsKarenTwitterKarenAldousFacebook

The overall giveaway on tour is £10/$15 Amazon GC plus an ecopy of The Vineyard.  
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What's Coming Up in September on Victoria's Pages of Romance 2 – M.S. Spencer – Whirlwind Romance3 - Flash Fiction and Book Hooks6 - Weekend Writing Warriors10 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction11 – Lori M. Jones – Renaissance of the Heart13 - Weekend Writing Warriors17 - Flash Fiction and Book Hooks19 – 22 – Fall into Romance Blog Hop24 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction 27 - Weekend Writing Warriors

Spotlight on Mickie Sherwood 's Cherished Moments

IF YOU ARE HERE FOR WEEKEND WRITING WARRIORS_ PLEASE SCROLL DOWN


Cherished Moments Tagline: Kissed, Loved, Lied, & LeftGenre: Sweet Romantic SuspensePrice: $2.99Buy: Topaz Publishing

Blurb:Senator Jordan Dupré is reluctant to revisit her past. That thought crumbles at the sight of Deacon Burke. His commanding presence and charming smile transports her back to her youth. Back then, she kissed, loved, lied, and left him—taking a life-changing secret with her.
Scorned by Jordan’s dishonesty, Deke swears he never wants to see her lying face again. However, his heart knows better, and he never stops thinking of her. When Jordan’s husband is killed, Deke is summoned to the Senator’s aid, by an unlikely source—Unfortunately, he brings a secret of his own.
Will secrets from their past reignite their cherished moments?

Excerpt:Although Jordan hid it with a politician's finesse, she was speechless when she saw Deke. Her unaffected expression gave way the longer Deacon Burke gazed into her eyes. Was he thinking of her, the woman who left him floundering when she disappeared without a trace?Deke stood—his expression blank. Apparently, he was also frozen in time.Eyes wide and mouth agape, time had certainly stopped for her."Long time, no see," he remarked, closing the space between them.As Jordan cleared her throat, she regained her composure. "That's an understatement."With a sparkle in his eye, he seemed to scrutinize her from head to toe. Embarrassed beneath his gaze, Jordan blushed. No longer was she the stick-thin; spunky, grad-student. Dressed in a colorful sleeveless top that accentuated the tone of her brown skin, she’d filled out in all the right places. Her tight jeans emphasized her mature, but curvy figure. Did this full-grown woman still mesmerize him?Deke looked into her face. "Age hasn’t impacted your beauty. Your brown eyes are still as beautiful as ever."Uncertain of her response, Jordan drew a cleansing breath, and then moistened her lips.With his eyes fixed on her lips, Deke beamed.Had her innocent gesture sent him back to another time and place, when they once enjoyed each other? Will Jordan and Deke rekindle the fire of their lost love?
Also available at: Amazon | Allromanceebooks |B&NFind Mickie Sherwood at: Blog | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads | BlurbsinBloom

What's Coming Up in September on Victoria's Pages of Romance 1 - Karen Aldous - The Vineyard  2 – M.S. Spencer – Whirlwind Romance3 - Flash Fiction and Book Hooks6 - Weekend Writing Warriors10 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction11 – Lori M. Jones – Renaissance of the Heart13 - Weekend Writing Warriors17 - Flash Fiction and Book Hooks19 – 22 – Fall into Romance Blog Hop24 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction 27 - Weekend Writing Warriors

Victoria's Pages of Romance on Weekend Writing Warriors #8sunday

Welcome to another weekend of Weekend Writing Warriors. My 8 sentence snippet this week is from my latest release NA contemporary romance – A Guy and A Girl. Scene Set – Last week Todd begged to win Chelsea back. Chelsea has made her choice.

As Chelsea sat across from Hunter, he looked up from his textbook. "Make up or break up? I'm voting for break up."Oh, that's so sweet of him. "Forget Todd. He's a nonentity." She tapped her notepad. "Now, to this assignment." 

Tagline
Lies, deceits and secrets - not a good way to begin a relationship.
Blurb
After an ugly past forced Hunter Connolly to escape to Europe, the talented hockey player is back in North America and determined to land a position with a professional team. But he can’t hide from his past forever, especially when his beautiful classmate, Chelsea, forces him to reexamine his life. Soon, hockey is not his first priority anymore.
Chelsea Henderson is a bright co-ed working towards her dream of being a professional dancer. She forms a unique friendship with one of her father’s newest recruits and would love nothing more than to take it to the next level. However, there’s just one small problem. He doesn’t know she’s his coach’s daughter.
Amid the deceptions, danger lurks closer than they could ever imagine. Will fate contrive to rip the young lovers apart? Or will Hunter and Chelsea have their shot at love?


What people are saying about – A Guy and A Girl
5 Stars - I loved this book...I think that it was an awesome story. It was interesting on how everything came about as well as some surprises on who was doing what. I liked how the couple had issues that would be real life issues as well. Very well written, can't wait to read more books by Victoria as well as maybe some more in relation to characters in the book.

5 Stars - What a great romance. Fast paced. Chock full of tension. Little bit of hockey Little bit of dance. Lots of love.

4 Stars - Who can resist a sexy star hockey player with secrets...not many especially the coaches daughter. This story has hot and steamy along with psycho exes and crazy best friends trying to mess things up. Even after battling exes and boyfriends, hospital stays and a long distance relationship he has to overcome the secret of his past so they can move forward. Highly recommend this book.
Buy Links – Exclusively at - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L2GRD1U

Link back to Weekend Writing Warriors - www.wewriwa.com



What's Coming Up in September on Victoria's Pages of Romance 1 - Karen Aldous - The Vineyard  2 – Adrianna Kraft – Book 3 in Riders Up series3 – Karen-Anne Stewart – Ashes to Steele3 - Book Hooks4 - Kristy Feltenberger Gillespie - Even in Death: A Short Story Collection5 – M.S. Spencer – Whirlwind Romance6 - Weekend Writing Warriors10 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction11 – Lori M. Jones – Renaissance of the Heart12 – Anne B. Cole – Soul Entwined13 - Weekend Writing Warriors17 - Flash Fiction and Book Hooks19 – 22 – Fall into Romance Blog Hop24 – Book Hooks and Flash Fiction 27 - Weekend Writing Warriors