Tina Christopher's Blog, page 16

Your Laugh of the Day!

I LOVE Chuck’s response to van Damme’s split…well, I just love Chuck;).

Incredible athletics and actors who poke fun at themselves. What more do you need?;)

Happy Monday!

Weekend Writing Warriors-Rescue by Ruin Part 5

Welcome to the Weekend Writing Warriors. Click here for the rest of the amazing writers participating.

Today I have another snippet from Rescue by Ruin, a Victorian steampunk story. It continues on directly from where last week’s snippet ended. While indulging their mutual attraction Beatrice realised that watching the other couples, and one of the triads in particular, heightened her senses. Now it is up to Vaughn to discover if it was only the shock of a new experience or if she is indeed a voyeur. I apologise for my creative punctuation;).

“Bea looked back at the trio, “But I’ve never see the like before, so I cannot really judge.”

The soldier still steadied the woman, but his hands were now below her skirts. She could judge his actions only by the milkmaid’s response; it was eager and demanding enough to make Bea believe he did what the woman wanted.

Vaughn slowly lowered Bea’s legs until she slid down his body; he kept his arm around her waist and turned her, pressing her back to his front. It was as if she stood before a bonfire-his heat enveloped her and the brand of his erection against her derriere stoked the flames inside her.

He nestled his cheek against hers and stroked his free hand down her corset and hips; and up again; and down again. On his third pass he stopped to cuddle her breast and tease her nipple; Bea bowed her back and pushed her breast more firmly into his hand. “I wouldn’t want you to leave until you can make an unbiased judgment; we will watch until you are certain.”

Happy Sunday! And to anyone out there who, like me, is waging war in the editing cave “Good Luck!”.

Forced to marry a violent man, Beatrice knows only one way out—ruin her reputation. She climbs aboard the Venia, a dirigible of ill repute, for a masquerade. Bea does not expect to run into Vaughn Kemple, the third Duke of Missenden, who eight months ago left her without an explanation. Feeling secure behind her mask, she decides Vaughn will be the one to ruin her. She may not get to spend forever with this man she still loves, but at least she can have one night of pleasure.

But a mask is not enough to hide her identity. Vaughn recognizes Bea, shocked to find her aboard an airship where sexual freedom isn’t just a thought, it’s celebrated. But her actions are far from innocent. Captivated, he’s determined to make her his.

The heat between them flares, but Vaughn is torn between desire and honor. Bea is afraid to risk her heart on a man she can’t trust. And when her future husband arrives on the scene, it’s more than their hearts in danger.

Buy it from Ellora’s Cave, Amazon or Kobo.

Weekend Writing Warriors-Rescue by Ruin Part 4

Welcome to the Weekend Writing Warriors. Click here for the rest of the amazing writers participating.

Today I have another snippet from Rescue by Ruin, a Victorian steampunk story, for you. Beatrice and Vaughn are exploring their connection. The gatherings on the Venia are like none other, filled with sensuality and a freedom of expression found nowhere else. The things happening in the ball room open Beatrice’s eyes to a whole new world. And they teach her something about herself she hadn’t known before.

“The wildfire flared back to life between her legs.

Vaughn paused and studied her face. Color bloomed on her cheeks and she dragged her eyes away from the spectacle before her.

A dark smile lifted his lips. “You like to watch.”

For a moment Bea struggled with her answer, but then she touched her mask and remembered he would never know her as her true self. She didn’t have to hide behind a façade of respectability.

She teased his cheek with the lightest touch of her fingertips, once again wishing she no longer wore her silk gloves and could feel his skin against hers, “I believe I do.”

 

Happy Sunday!

Forced to marry a violent man, Beatrice knows only one way out—ruin her reputation. She climbs aboard the Venia, a dirigible of ill repute, for a masquerade. Bea does not expect to run into Vaughn Kemple, the third Duke of Missenden, who eight months ago left her without an explanation. Feeling secure behind her mask, she decides Vaughn will be the one to ruin her. She may not get to spend forever with this man she still loves, but at least she can have one night of pleasure.

But a mask is not enough to hide her identity. Vaughn recognizes Bea, shocked to find her aboard an airship where sexual freedom isn’t just a thought, it’s celebrated. But her actions are far from innocent. Captivated, he’s determined to make her his.

The heat between them flares, but Vaughn is torn between desire and honor. Bea is afraid to risk her heart on a man she can’t trust. And when her future husband arrives on the scene, it’s more than their hearts in danger.

Buy it from Ellora’s Cave, Amazon or Kobo.

Weekend Writing Warriors-Rescue by Ruin Part 3

Welcome to the Weekend Writing Warriors. Click here for the rest of the amazing writers participating.

Today I have another snippet from Rescue by Ruin, a Victorian steampunk story, for you. Beatrice and Vaughn are currently on the Venia, a dirigible of ill-repute, and he has asked her to dance. Due to their location things are not quite as you would find them in any other ballroom. Please forgive my over-use of semicolons;).

“No one knew who she was; in this moment propriety no longer restricted her. Yes, before she left she needed to remove her mask and find a way to be recognized, but that wasn’t her priority right now.

Making memories was.

Bea slowly moved her hand until she caressed his nape with her fingertips. For a moment she wished her gloves off, wished to experience the feel of him directly against her flesh. His muscles bunched beneath her touch; he spread his palm on the middle of her lower back. Butterflies danced through her stomach. Vaughn and her separated slightly and their gazes met.”

Thank you for stopping by. I am currently neck deep in edits for DbD, the sequel to Rescue by Ruin, which means I won’t be online a lot.

Have a wonderful first weekend in January 2014.

Forced to marry a violent man, Beatrice knows only one way out—ruin her reputation. She climbs aboard the Venia, a dirigible of ill repute, for a masquerade. Bea does not expect to run into Vaughn Kemple, the third Duke of Missenden, who eight months ago left her without an explanation. Feeling secure behind her mask, she decides Vaughn will be the one to ruin her. She may not get to spend forever with this man she still loves, but at least she can have one night of pleasure.

But a mask is not enough to hide her identity. Vaughn recognizes Bea, shocked to find her aboard an airship where sexual freedom isn’t just a thought, it’s celebrated. But her actions are far from innocent. Captivated, he’s determined to make her his.

The heat between them flares, but Vaughn is torn between desire and honor. Bea is afraid to risk her heart on a man she can’t trust. And when her future husband arrives on the scene, it’s more than their hearts in danger.

Buy it from Ellora’s Cave, Amazon or Kobo.

Sexy Men Reading Children’s Books

A friend shared with me this hilarious blog post from Book Riot. I just had to share some of the pictures:).

Idris Elba reading Love you Forever by Robert Munsch

Ryan Gosling reading Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne

Channing Tatum reading Chicka Ckicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr.

Who would you like to see reading a kids’ book?

 

 

My Favourite Reads of 2013

I had hoped to read 125 books this year, but I only made it to 122.

Here are some of my favourite reads of 2013 in chronological order:

1) Frost Burned by Patricia Briggs (urban fantasy)

I just love the Mercy Thompson stories. Each book gets better and better. I love Mercy and Adam together and the way she is finding her place in the wolf pack.

2) Loki’s Wolves by Kelley Armstrong & Melissa Marr (middle grade fiction)

In Viking times, Norse myths predicted the end of the world, an event called Ragnarok, that only the gods can stop. The gods are dead so it is up to Thor’s and Loki’s descendants Matthew, Fen and Laurie to save the world. This action-packed adventure is the first in the epic Blackwell Pages series filled with larger-than-life legends, gripping battles, and an engaging cast of characters who bring the myths to life. I cannot wait for Odin’s Ravens.

3) Rush by Eve Silver (teen)

Rush is the best alien-invading-earth sci-fi story this year. When Miki is left bloody and broken in the road she is pulled into a game beyond her wildest imagination. A game where she has to fight for her life and defend her planet against the invasion of the Drau.

4) Island of Fire by Lisa McMann (middle grade fiction)

This is book 3 in the Unwanteds series. The series gets better with each book and I cannot wait to see what else the characters have to survive and overcome.

5) The Rithmatist by Brandon Sanderson (teen)

I thoroughly enjoyed this book with its unique world and fabulous characters. The concept of having chalk creatures come to life to either kill you or protect you is amazing. I am very much looking forward to book 2.

6) Heart of Obsidian by Nalini Singh (romance)

Nalini could write a phone book and I would read it. I LOVE her writing and the Psy/Changeling series in particular. This story brings one major story arch to conclusion.

7) Bare it All by Lori Foster (contemp Romance)

Sexy cop, mysterious young woman and fabulous side characters. What more do you need?;)

8) Fortunately, the Milk by Neil Gaiman (early reader age 6-8)

I am not a big fan of Neil Gaiman, but Fortunately the Milk is absolutely fabulous. Dad didn’t listen when mum told him to make sure there’s milk. He goes out to get more and then doesn’t come back for hours. When he does come back he has the wildest story for being late involving aliens, pirates and a time-travelling dinosaur in a hot-air balloon.

9) Counting by 7s by Holly Sloan Goldberg (middle grade)

This book was quite a surprise. It reminded me of Forest Gump because every time the main character makes a decision or meets a new person something amazing is just around the corner.

10) Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell (teen)

I sat down and read this book in one sitting. Fabulous characters, issues and experiences dealt with beautifully and a great story around fandom. A must-read for everyone!

11) Fever and Burn by Maya Banks (contemp romance)

I love Maya’s books. Great story, well-developed characters and scorching hot sex. Makes for fabulous reads;).

12) Goth Girl and the Ghost of a Mouse by Chris Riddell (middle grade)

Chris Riddell is one of my favourite illustrators. Goth Girl is the first in a new series and filled with the most amazing illustrations. It also has a lot of little jokes hidden in the pictures. If you’re looking for a chapter book to share with a 7-9 year old Goth Girl is the perfect match.

13) Ritual Magic by Eileen Wilks (urban fantasy)

OMG, this is such a fabulous series filled with werewolves (and other paranormal people) and a heroine who cannot be touched by magic. Amazing worldbuilding and characters you want as friends. If you haven’t tried the series run to the store and get book 1;).

14) The Burning Sky by Sherry Thomas (teen)

This is a fabulous start to a new series which mixes historic fiction and fantasy. Great worldbuilding, intriguing characters and cool story with the mandatory prophecy puts this on my favourite books of the year list.

15) Colter’s Gift by Maya Banks (romance)

The final book in the Colter series and a great conclusion. One damaged heroin and two super-sexy bodyguards…you can imagine the rest;).

16) Archangel’s Legion by Nalini Singh (romance)

Angels and vampires like you have never seen them before. Elena and Raphael face a battle they had not expected and learn more about their relationship. Run to the store and get book 1 if you haven’t tried the series yet;).

17) The Queen of the Tearling by Erika Johanson (fantasy)

O.M.G. This is one of the best books I have read in a while. It comes out July 2014. It starts on a somewhat predictable note with a young woman who grew up in hiding having to take up the throne of her kingdom. She expects assassination attempts every day. What grabbed me by the throat was the unpredictability of the characters. I had no idea how they would respond to the obstacles thrown in their way, which kept me on the edge of my seat and made the read the book in 2 days.

18) Laid Bare and Inside Out by Lauren Dane (contemp romance)

I love Lauren’s books. She has a way of merging amazing characters with interesting story, and a well-developed and believable romance.

So here are some of my favourite reads of 2013. What have you really enjoyed this year?

Happy New Year and may 2014 be the best year yet!

Merry Christmas!

I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays and wonderful start to the New Year! May 2014 be the Best Year Ever…or just better than 2013;).

I am still without internet at home and I am off work for the rest of the week, so I won’t be online.

Have fun and stay safe!

Toronto Weather

We are having pretty bad weather in Toronto, which means I am without internet at home. Apologies to anyone who is waiting on a response from me. I am hoping to do so once things are back to normal.

If you’re in the GTA or Southern Ontario I hope you are safe and can still enjoy Christmas.

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Weekend Writing Warriors-Rescue by Ruin Part 2

Only a few more days to Christmas. I hope you’re all set and ready to enjoy the season.

Click here for the rest of the amazing writers participating in the Weekend Writing Warriors. Today I have another snippet from Rescue by Ruin, a Victorian steampunk story, for you. Vaughn, the hero, has just caught sight of a rather unusual young lady.

“Vaughn Kemple stared at the vision in gold and red. She looked like a woman dressed in flames. He only cared about ladies’ fashion in so far as he knew how to undress them, but even he knew her ensemble was highly irregular. The blouse followed its owner like a second skin. The deep-red corset presented her breasts to the world, lent just a hint of modesty by the sheer gold overshirt. The skirt hugged her beautifully rounded hips and made him want to follow the curves with his hands.

He balled his fists, attempting to push his instant attraction aside. Just because his best friend had dragged him here to drown his sorrows in great booze didn’t mean that he had to take the first available female who dragged him out of his brooding.

He had not given up hope of persuading Miss Beatrice Trevan to see reason.”

Enjoy your weekend and if you would like to win a copy of any of my books come over to Darker Temptations and tell me what you’re excited about this Christmas.

Forced to marry a violent man, Beatrice knows only one way out—ruin her reputation. She climbs aboard the Venia, a dirigible of ill repute, for a masquerade. Bea does not expect to run into Vaughn Kemple, the third Duke of Missenden, who eight months ago left her without an explanation. Feeling secure behind her mask, she decides Vaughn will be the one to ruin her. She may not get to spend forever with this man she still loves, but at least she can have one night of pleasure.

But a mask is not enough to hide her identity. Vaughn recognizes Bea, shocked to find her aboard an airship where sexual freedom isn’t just a thought, it’s celebrated. But her actions are far from innocent. Captivated, he’s determined to make her his.

The heat between them flares, but Vaughn is torn between desire and honor. Bea is afraid to risk her heart on a man she can’t trust. And when her future husband arrives on the scene, it’s more than their hearts in danger.

Buy it from Ellora’s Cave, Amazon or Kobo (BOOKRIOT50 gives you 50% off select titles on kobobooks).

Christmas Give-Away!

Pop over to Darker Temptations and tell me what you are excited about this Christmas for a chance to win one of my ebooks. Are you looking forward to some time off, is it the presents, getting the whole family together or the Dr Who Christmas Special?